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Claire Goodnite #1
Tell Me a Story
George Washington Township, New Jersey has seen its fair share of crime and tragedy. Most recently, a young boy is missing from his home and the tenacious Detective Claire Goodnite is eager to find him.
But the case is stirring up old memories best left forgotten. When a blast from her own past, FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell, turns up, Claire finds it hard to keep old ghosts at rest. And even harder to keep the sexy SAIC out of her case and her bed.
Claire Goodnite is the best damn detective in the state of New Jersey and you better believe she's coming for you.
But the case is stirring up old memories best left forgotten. When a blast from her own past, FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell, turns up, Claire finds it hard to keep old ghosts at rest. And even harder to keep the sexy SAIC out of her case and her bed.
Claire Goodnite is the best damn detective in the state of New Jersey and you better believe she's coming for you.
334 pages, Paperback
First published March 13, 2018
About the author
Jennifer Rebecca
43 books201 followersJennifer is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Claire Goodnite series and the Presidential Affair. She is a native of San Diego, California. She credits her love of books and reading to her mother and her knowledge that real heroes do exist to her dad.
Jennifer is a graduate of California State University San Marcos where she studied Criminology and Justice Studies. She is also a member of Alpha Xi Delta.
She currently lives in East Texas with her husband, Sean, and their three children along with an entire menagerie of lovable but sofa eating animals. She can often be found on the soccer or baseball fields, reading, or wondering what the hell her senior citizens have gotten up to now. Jennifer is convinced that if she puts her fitbit on one of the dogs, she might finally make her step goals.
She loves a great romance, an alpha hero, and lots and lots of laughter.
Jennifer is a graduate of California State University San Marcos where she studied Criminology and Justice Studies. She is also a member of Alpha Xi Delta.
She currently lives in East Texas with her husband, Sean, and their three children along with an entire menagerie of lovable but sofa eating animals. She can often be found on the soccer or baseball fields, reading, or wondering what the hell her senior citizens have gotten up to now. Jennifer is convinced that if she puts her fitbit on one of the dogs, she might finally make her step goals.
She loves a great romance, an alpha hero, and lots and lots of laughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 26, 2018
I am not sure how I feel about this book, to be honest. I thought the writing was well done. The pace was excellent. The mystery aspect of the story was engaging. What brought my rating down was the romance aspect of the story. I just didn't like Wes or Claire as a couple (I didn't particularly like them individually either). Wes just seemed like a huge a$$hole that couldn't keep it in his pants, and Claire just kept throwing their past in his face and acting like a three-year-old most of the time. Throw in a bunch of over the top cliché OW drama (because apparently, we needed to hear (and see) over and over and over again how much of a whore Wes was during their twelve years apart AND every single female they ran across threw themselves at him...sigh.) and this author destroyed any connection I might have felt for them as a couple.
So yea, I dunno. I am not sure what this author was trying to do with this book. Was it supposed to be a romance? A thriller? A romantic suspense?? I kind of feel like this book suffered from an identity crisis. But as I said, I did like the writing and the mystery aspect, so I may give book two a read just to see where the author is headed with these characters.
October 20, 2021
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story was a decent story, I'd like to say.
It had all the usual elements I needed in a suspense story: the mystery, the tension, the ever grounded backstories of characters fighting for said case, and of course some interesting dialogue about how it all started.
But the romance aspect (Which I took a star out of): Fell flat, I didn't feel the connection, the romance, the swoon, the energy, the tension between them. Rather I thought they just worked better as a professional team than anything personal. And even then I sometimes struggled with their personalities individually, sometimes they just came off odd. But the professionalism they did put in, I was there for, completely.
Although this book had plenty of wit, dry humor, excellent dialogues, mystery, tension, suspense, it may disappoint you in the romance end, so be warned.
But otherwise, an intriguing book and I certainly hope to read more by Rebecca.
Until the next read,
-TMR
This story was a decent story, I'd like to say.
It had all the usual elements I needed in a suspense story: the mystery, the tension, the ever grounded backstories of characters fighting for said case, and of course some interesting dialogue about how it all started.
But the romance aspect (Which I took a star out of): Fell flat, I didn't feel the connection, the romance, the swoon, the energy, the tension between them. Rather I thought they just worked better as a professional team than anything personal. And even then I sometimes struggled with their personalities individually, sometimes they just came off odd. But the professionalism they did put in, I was there for, completely.
Although this book had plenty of wit, dry humor, excellent dialogues, mystery, tension, suspense, it may disappoint you in the romance end, so be warned.
But otherwise, an intriguing book and I certainly hope to read more by Rebecca.
Until the next read,
-TMR
March 24, 2018
I’m struggling with this review. I started this book thinking it was a second chance romance. It was, but it was more the story of Claire’s history and how it is affecting her job, her love life, and her everyday life.
I struggled to connect to the characters. Claire was a hot headed, whiny, poor me but don’t pity me officer. Wes was a this is how life is and I don’t care what you think FBI Agent. Liam, Claire’s brother and her boss, was over bearing, rude, and not very professional. Together they all got on my nerves. I feel like none of them were professional in their job, none were respectful of each other in their personal lives, and they all thought there were something special when they were just as regular as the next person.
This story has potential, a lot of potential. I wish it focused more on the romance, less on the history. I wish the characters were more relatable. I did read the entire book. I needed to know if Wes would ever grow up and be a man to win over Claire. I wanted to know who took the little boy who was kidnapped.
I struggled to connect to the characters. Claire was a hot headed, whiny, poor me but don’t pity me officer. Wes was a this is how life is and I don’t care what you think FBI Agent. Liam, Claire’s brother and her boss, was over bearing, rude, and not very professional. Together they all got on my nerves. I feel like none of them were professional in their job, none were respectful of each other in their personal lives, and they all thought there were something special when they were just as regular as the next person.
This story has potential, a lot of potential. I wish it focused more on the romance, less on the history. I wish the characters were more relatable. I did read the entire book. I needed to know if Wes would ever grow up and be a man to win over Claire. I wanted to know who took the little boy who was kidnapped.
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September 10, 2018💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (9/10/18)!💝
Blurb:
George Washington Township, New Jersey has seen its fair share of crime and tragedy. Most recently, a young boy is missing from his home and the tenacious Detective Claire Goodnite is eager to find him.
But the case is stirring up old memories best left forgotten. When a blast from her own past, FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell, turns up, Claire finds it hard to keep old ghosts at rest. And even harder to keep the sexy SAIC out of her case and her bed.
Claire Goodnite is the best damn detective in the state of New Jersey and you better believe she's coming for you.
Blurb:
George Washington Township, New Jersey has seen its fair share of crime and tragedy. Most recently, a young boy is missing from his home and the tenacious Detective Claire Goodnite is eager to find him.
But the case is stirring up old memories best left forgotten. When a blast from her own past, FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell, turns up, Claire finds it hard to keep old ghosts at rest. And even harder to keep the sexy SAIC out of her case and her bed.
Claire Goodnite is the best damn detective in the state of New Jersey and you better believe she's coming for you.
March 13, 2018
Reviewed on Behalf of http://bookaddict.live,
I have never read a Jennifer Rebecca book before, and it was much more than I expected. We meet Claire a detective who unfortunately works for her protective older brother who freaks out when Claire has to handle the kidnapping of a 6 year old boy.
Unfortunately he is right to be worried as the kidnapping brings to the fore all her nightmares. Enter Wes FBI Agent who has come to assist on the case. This is the first in a series and we learn a lot of what make Claire ticks, her strengths and her stubbornness.
The crime is solved completely in this book, but the larger story arc continues. This ends on a positive note. At times I was screaming at the kindle, it kept me on my toes all the way through.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have never read a Jennifer Rebecca book before, and it was much more than I expected. We meet Claire a detective who unfortunately works for her protective older brother who freaks out when Claire has to handle the kidnapping of a 6 year old boy.
Unfortunately he is right to be worried as the kidnapping brings to the fore all her nightmares. Enter Wes FBI Agent who has come to assist on the case. This is the first in a series and we learn a lot of what make Claire ticks, her strengths and her stubbornness.
The crime is solved completely in this book, but the larger story arc continues. This ends on a positive note. At times I was screaming at the kindle, it kept me on my toes all the way through.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2018
Well. well, well... Tell Me a Story was a very intriguing and suspense filled novel with a killer I didn't anticipate and while the main mystery for this story was solved there is a larger story arc that we don't have the answers too and honestly, I'm dying to have that mystery solved!!
I haven't read anything by Jennifer Rebecca since her debut novel and I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this story, the plot wasn't what I expected at all. It was honestly a little refreshing to have a different backstory for our tough as nails detective heroine. He backstory is one that is tragic, but made Claire fierce and will go the extra distance to serve and protect. Even, if she has to dodge her overprotective older brother and former lover, who are the Chief of Police and and FBI agent, respectively.
Even though both, Liam and Wes, think that they are helping her by pulling her form a case that hits close to home, they do nothing but further piss off Claire, because she thinks that they don't believe in her even if they both claim to love her.
Tell Me a Story is riddled with miscommunication between ex lovers with a rocky past and one wanting a future while the other is dealing with demons and doesn't want the world to know, all the while trying to save a child and find a killer before it's too late. Tell me a Story caught me by surprise and I can't wait to read more of the Claire Goodnite series!
I haven't read anything by Jennifer Rebecca since her debut novel and I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this story, the plot wasn't what I expected at all. It was honestly a little refreshing to have a different backstory for our tough as nails detective heroine. He backstory is one that is tragic, but made Claire fierce and will go the extra distance to serve and protect. Even, if she has to dodge her overprotective older brother and former lover, who are the Chief of Police and and FBI agent, respectively.
Even though both, Liam and Wes, think that they are helping her by pulling her form a case that hits close to home, they do nothing but further piss off Claire, because she thinks that they don't believe in her even if they both claim to love her.
Tell Me a Story is riddled with miscommunication between ex lovers with a rocky past and one wanting a future while the other is dealing with demons and doesn't want the world to know, all the while trying to save a child and find a killer before it's too late. Tell me a Story caught me by surprise and I can't wait to read more of the Claire Goodnite series!
March 12, 2018
Wow! What a heart-pounding story! Tell Me A Story has everything: romance, suspense, conflict and angst!
Claire survived the unthinkable....she went on to have a career where she helps others in trouble.
Wes.....well, he is a strong ALPHA of a man who knows what....and who....he wants and he is determined to get it and the girl.
But first, they have to work together to solve a crime that brings back memories for Claire.
This is the first in a series and was the first read for me from the author. I look forward to continuing the series.
Reviewed by: Dana D.
Claire survived the unthinkable....she went on to have a career where she helps others in trouble.
Wes.....well, he is a strong ALPHA of a man who knows what....and who....he wants and he is determined to get it and the girl.
But first, they have to work together to solve a crime that brings back memories for Claire.
This is the first in a series and was the first read for me from the author. I look forward to continuing the series.
Reviewed by: Dana D.
March 12, 2018
Wow! What a heart-pounding story! Tell Me A Story has everything: romance, suspense, conflict and angst!
Claire survived the unthinkable....she went on to have a career where she helps others in trouble.
Wes.....well, he is a strong ALPHA of a man who knows what....and who....he wants and he is determined to get it and the girl.
But first, they have to work together to solve a crime that brings back memories for Claire.
This is the first in a series and was the first read for me from the author. I look forward to continuing the series.
Claire survived the unthinkable....she went on to have a career where she helps others in trouble.
Wes.....well, he is a strong ALPHA of a man who knows what....and who....he wants and he is determined to get it and the girl.
But first, they have to work together to solve a crime that brings back memories for Claire.
This is the first in a series and was the first read for me from the author. I look forward to continuing the series.
November 25, 2018
Amazing story. I haven't read a book like this but enjoyed it and can't wait to read the rest of the series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2018
could not put this down! Great thriller with some super sexy scenes. immediately purchased book 2. parts of it caused a trigger for me, but sometimes that is therapeutic.
March 23, 2018
Once i got over the disappointment that there is way more "romance" (i use that word lightly!) than i was expecting and that the romance begins at the very beginning of the story and there wasnt much detective work and....actually ive realised there were quite a lot of disappointments i had to get over... hmmmm.
Anyway, basically the blurb and the book tell different tales. I was expecting something more angsty, maybe a little darker. I feel like the author just tried to squeeze too many subgenres into this story and it just ended up being a little too underwhelming.
I did like the bones of the book and i think if there was less of everything and more of the best bits it would be truly fabulous.
Anyway, basically the blurb and the book tell different tales. I was expecting something more angsty, maybe a little darker. I feel like the author just tried to squeeze too many subgenres into this story and it just ended up being a little too underwhelming.
I did like the bones of the book and i think if there was less of everything and more of the best bits it would be truly fabulous.
February 16, 2019
I was underwhelmed with this book for two reasons: I thought I would be reading about a kickass detective called Claire Goodnite. I was all set up to read a story similar to the In Death series by JD Robb, but all I read was mostly about a detective’s emotional turmoil related to her past and a turbulent love story with an FBI agent. This guy is also her big brother’s best friend. The second reason is that there was very little written about detective work and it sucked. No suspense, no drama. All I remember are the many sibling fights Claire got into with her brother, all the screaming they did to each other, and the unprofessional way that Wes behaved towards Claire during their dealings in the investigation.
C.laire is called to investigate the disappearance of a little boy. Her brother, who is the Captain and her boss, didn’t want her to take the case. She insisted. Then she appeared at the little boy’s house and performed a very wimpy investigation and interrogation of the family. SAIC Wesley O’Donnel appears and tries to convince her to give up the case to him and when she rejects him, he ousts the one-night stand they had, in front of all the policemen at the site. When a fellow officer tries to console her, Wes acts all proprietary and gets told off by the officer. Then they drive to the station, where Liam is waiting furious and all three have a bang up screaming fight at the station, that could be heard out in the pen. Not my idea of how an FBI agent and a police Captain should behave.
I felt for Claire because she had been kidnapped as a little girl. Her brother Liam and best friend Wes feel a lot of guilt because she was tailing them and they told her to scat. At that moment, a stranger came and abducted her and kept her for six days, during which she endured sexual and physical abuse. To the present day, she’s still enduring nightmares. You can then understand the excessive protectiveness that Liam and Wes exhibit towards Claire, but Claire is stubborn and keeps on working on the case, even thought it is harming her. Most of the book is taken with Claire’s emotional problems, her brokenness and her feelings that she’ll never get over it. Her best friend, who was also her counsellor, tries to help but Claire is a little closed off and doesn’t accept a lot of guidance.
There was a lot of back and forth between Wes and Claire. . She keeps rejecting Wes because he broke her heart when they were teenagers, then left her to join the seals. Now he’s back proclaiming she belongs to him and acts all possessive. Eventually he gets his act together and acts supportive of Claire’s emotions. Then they join forces to solve the case but the case practically solves itself, huh?
I was a little frustrated because I read a lot about how Claire was exhausted and stressed but the reader doesn’t get the sense of long working days, or strenuous investigative procedures. I thought this was a detective story with a side of romance and ended up with a poorly executed love story and an even worse side of detective. The plot had a lot of possibilities but I think the author needs more experience managing this type of story and work to achieve a better balance between the detective aspect and the love story. I also think she should investigate correct procedure during the investigation of crimes and professional behavior between agents. This felt like a free-for-all between agents.
C.laire is called to investigate the disappearance of a little boy. Her brother, who is the Captain and her boss, didn’t want her to take the case. She insisted. Then she appeared at the little boy’s house and performed a very wimpy investigation and interrogation of the family. SAIC Wesley O’Donnel appears and tries to convince her to give up the case to him and when she rejects him, he ousts the one-night stand they had, in front of all the policemen at the site. When a fellow officer tries to console her, Wes acts all proprietary and gets told off by the officer. Then they drive to the station, where Liam is waiting furious and all three have a bang up screaming fight at the station, that could be heard out in the pen. Not my idea of how an FBI agent and a police Captain should behave.
I felt for Claire because she had been kidnapped as a little girl. Her brother Liam and best friend Wes feel a lot of guilt because she was tailing them and they told her to scat. At that moment, a stranger came and abducted her and kept her for six days, during which she endured sexual and physical abuse. To the present day, she’s still enduring nightmares. You can then understand the excessive protectiveness that Liam and Wes exhibit towards Claire, but Claire is stubborn and keeps on working on the case, even thought it is harming her. Most of the book is taken with Claire’s emotional problems, her brokenness and her feelings that she’ll never get over it. Her best friend, who was also her counsellor, tries to help but Claire is a little closed off and doesn’t accept a lot of guidance.
There was a lot of back and forth between Wes and Claire. . She keeps rejecting Wes because he broke her heart when they were teenagers, then left her to join the seals. Now he’s back proclaiming she belongs to him and acts all possessive. Eventually he gets his act together and acts supportive of Claire’s emotions. Then they join forces to solve the case but the case practically solves itself, huh?
I was a little frustrated because I read a lot about how Claire was exhausted and stressed but the reader doesn’t get the sense of long working days, or strenuous investigative procedures. I thought this was a detective story with a side of romance and ended up with a poorly executed love story and an even worse side of detective. The plot had a lot of possibilities but I think the author needs more experience managing this type of story and work to achieve a better balance between the detective aspect and the love story. I also think she should investigate correct procedure during the investigation of crimes and professional behavior between agents. This felt like a free-for-all between agents.
March 15, 2018
ARC REVIEW
It's important for you to go into this book knowing it's suppose to be a romance not a romantic suspense, because if you do (like I did) you'll be a little disappointed, I enjoyed the book but I expected more. The case of the missing boy practically solves itself, the only reason it has any importance to the story is how it affects Claire. Told in the first person it deals heavily with Claire's internal conflict of dealing with her past and how that is affecting her now. Throw in the fact that her over protective brother and boss, Liam, is constantly trying to shield bad things from her and the more he pushes the harder she pushes back trying to prove him wrong that she is strong enough to handle anything.
When a young boy goes missing Claire is the only detective free to take the case. Liam tries to take her off the case by calling in his best friend and FBI Special Agent in Charge Wesley O'Connell to take over. Claire throws a shit fit, not only because she is refusing to hand the case over but Wes is the same guy she has loved all her life, he also took her virginity and then promptly broke her heart. But grown up Wes is different he wants a relationship and he keeps telling Claire she's his, but Claire heart was broken and hurt so bad by his past actions she doesn't want to believe him. The longer the case goes on the worse Claire's night terrors get and the harder it is for her to concentrate on her current case and it also reminds her of why she can't be with Wes. Toward the end the POV changes to Wes for one chapter and it briefly explains why he did what he did and how he feels, and I loved this because I'm noisy when it comes to books I like knowing what all the characters are thinking.
Overall, I love Claire as a character she is flawed and so much stronger than she thinks she is and she's not afraid to teach her brother a lesson and kick him in the balls when he's acting like a jerk. Wes I liked so much more after I read after his POV. Liam I'm still not sure about. I wish there was a little more with Claire being a detective, it says in the blurb she the best detective I saw no evidence to support that, she would start doing something for the case then get distracted and completely veer off that topic, other than that I enjoyed the yoyo relationship Claire and Wes went through.
It's important for you to go into this book knowing it's suppose to be a romance not a romantic suspense, because if you do (like I did) you'll be a little disappointed, I enjoyed the book but I expected more. The case of the missing boy practically solves itself, the only reason it has any importance to the story is how it affects Claire. Told in the first person it deals heavily with Claire's internal conflict of dealing with her past and how that is affecting her now. Throw in the fact that her over protective brother and boss, Liam, is constantly trying to shield bad things from her and the more he pushes the harder she pushes back trying to prove him wrong that she is strong enough to handle anything.
When a young boy goes missing Claire is the only detective free to take the case. Liam tries to take her off the case by calling in his best friend and FBI Special Agent in Charge Wesley O'Connell to take over. Claire throws a shit fit, not only because she is refusing to hand the case over but Wes is the same guy she has loved all her life, he also took her virginity and then promptly broke her heart. But grown up Wes is different he wants a relationship and he keeps telling Claire she's his, but Claire heart was broken and hurt so bad by his past actions she doesn't want to believe him. The longer the case goes on the worse Claire's night terrors get and the harder it is for her to concentrate on her current case and it also reminds her of why she can't be with Wes. Toward the end the POV changes to Wes for one chapter and it briefly explains why he did what he did and how he feels, and I loved this because I'm noisy when it comes to books I like knowing what all the characters are thinking.
Overall, I love Claire as a character she is flawed and so much stronger than she thinks she is and she's not afraid to teach her brother a lesson and kick him in the balls when he's acting like a jerk. Wes I liked so much more after I read after his POV. Liam I'm still not sure about. I wish there was a little more with Claire being a detective, it says in the blurb she the best detective I saw no evidence to support that, she would start doing something for the case then get distracted and completely veer off that topic, other than that I enjoyed the yoyo relationship Claire and Wes went through.
December 26, 2018
Equal parts romance and crime thriller, TELL ME A STORY is a fast-paced, steamy read with deep characters. Twenty-nine-year-old Claire Goodnight is a police detective, whose captain just happens to be her big brother. When she catches a case of a missing six-year-old-boy, we discover Claire has a haunting past that has her brother, and FBI agent, Wes O’Connell, questioning her ability to handle it. In addition to a horrific event in her young life, she also has a long history with Wes, which threatens to derail their investigation and her heart. Nothing about the case feels right to Claire, but the deeper in she gets, the more her own nightmares return.
Plot
The plotting is well done. I had my suspicions about the guilty party, of an on, but never completely figured it out. The author does a great job of shaking things up by throwing in twists and turns. There were a couple of things that seemed off to me in a crime thriller, but they may not bother readers who don’t work with the law enforcement community. The pacing was spot on, moving from one event to the next at just the right speed.
The Characters
Claire’s backstory was unique and set up some of the best scenes in the book. While her flashbacks were hard to read at times, they were necessary to fully understand her character. Wes was equally interesting and because of their history, Claire’s demons are Wes’s demons, which made these two a couple that was easy to root for.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About TELL ME A STORY
1. Claire. She’s one part straight-laced cop, one part insecure female, and one part snark, making her unpredictable in the best way.
2. Claire’s backstory. Unnerving and dark, the events that took place in her youth helped shape the detective and woman she’s become.
3. Wes. He’s got a good heart, brains, and Chris Hemsworth biceps. Enough said.
4. Liam. Claire’s older brother struggles with being a brother and a boss and his internal conflict makes him one of the best characters in the book
5. Plot twists. Several events took the story in directions I didn’t expect, which made it all the more difficult to put down.
Bottom Line
A steamy romantic crime thriller with unique characters.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Plot
The plotting is well done. I had my suspicions about the guilty party, of an on, but never completely figured it out. The author does a great job of shaking things up by throwing in twists and turns. There were a couple of things that seemed off to me in a crime thriller, but they may not bother readers who don’t work with the law enforcement community. The pacing was spot on, moving from one event to the next at just the right speed.
The Characters
Claire’s backstory was unique and set up some of the best scenes in the book. While her flashbacks were hard to read at times, they were necessary to fully understand her character. Wes was equally interesting and because of their history, Claire’s demons are Wes’s demons, which made these two a couple that was easy to root for.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About TELL ME A STORY
1. Claire. She’s one part straight-laced cop, one part insecure female, and one part snark, making her unpredictable in the best way.
2. Claire’s backstory. Unnerving and dark, the events that took place in her youth helped shape the detective and woman she’s become.
3. Wes. He’s got a good heart, brains, and Chris Hemsworth biceps. Enough said.
4. Liam. Claire’s older brother struggles with being a brother and a boss and his internal conflict makes him one of the best characters in the book
5. Plot twists. Several events took the story in directions I didn’t expect, which made it all the more difficult to put down.
Bottom Line
A steamy romantic crime thriller with unique characters.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2020
I made it to Chapter 4 and then quit for 2 main reasons:
- Claire is given the investigation of a missing 6 year old boy. She goes to the parents house, talks to them, agrees not to talk to the distraught older sister who is the last person to have seen the boy until the following day, goes back to the station to interview the biological dad, then checks off shift to pick up the case the next morning. Um, yeah. Not exactly normal police actions in the first 24 hours of a missing person case
- while at the parents house, she runs into an old flame and gets into a short but screaming match of rage with him in front of her fellow officers, FBI officers, and the parents. This screaming match includes - on both their parts - yelling about genital size and commenting on how much the size worked when they had sex
Now, Claire apparently was 6 years old when she was abducted (she took candy from a stranger), potentially sexually assaulted (this may become more apparent later in the story but it was just alluded to at the 5% mark). Her old brother is now her chief of police and hates her being on the force as he can't protect her, and especially hates her dealing with kidnapping cases. Now, this would normally be okay behaviour but the way it comes across is just wrong for someone in a position of authority given their working relationship. Her brother's best friend since they were kids is the FBI agent she had a screaming fit with, who she slept with once when nearly 18 years old (she is now 30 years old) and they don't appear to have seen each other since then. However, at the station he kisses her, she semi admits she loves him (loved him, it has been 12 years) and then I gave up. Already starting to read like a teen drama which I don't expect from the age of the characters.
- Claire is given the investigation of a missing 6 year old boy. She goes to the parents house, talks to them, agrees not to talk to the distraught older sister who is the last person to have seen the boy until the following day, goes back to the station to interview the biological dad, then checks off shift to pick up the case the next morning. Um, yeah. Not exactly normal police actions in the first 24 hours of a missing person case
- while at the parents house, she runs into an old flame and gets into a short but screaming match of rage with him in front of her fellow officers, FBI officers, and the parents. This screaming match includes - on both their parts - yelling about genital size and commenting on how much the size worked when they had sex
Now, Claire apparently was 6 years old when she was abducted (she took candy from a stranger), potentially sexually assaulted (this may become more apparent later in the story but it was just alluded to at the 5% mark). Her old brother is now her chief of police and hates her being on the force as he can't protect her, and especially hates her dealing with kidnapping cases. Now, this would normally be okay behaviour but the way it comes across is just wrong for someone in a position of authority given their working relationship. Her brother's best friend since they were kids is the FBI agent she had a screaming fit with, who she slept with once when nearly 18 years old (she is now 30 years old) and they don't appear to have seen each other since then. However, at the station he kisses her, she semi admits she loves him (loved him, it has been 12 years) and then I gave up. Already starting to read like a teen drama which I don't expect from the age of the characters.
March 24, 2018
I received this book for free from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Character: hero 3/5, heroine 2.5/5, secondary characters 3/5, growth 2/5, real 3/5 Here lies a big part of my struggle with the book.
Wes: I usually prefer the alpha type of hero, a bit of jerk, that likes to control things. Well, not the kind of jerk or control of Wes. Really, that man was always pushing too hard and yelling. Maybe if I had more of Wes POV, I could have connected better with him. The one chapter I had of him, was his best moment for me.
Liam: Really, as a secondary character, he was almost a third main character of the story, but he was as horrible and obnoxious as Wes. I won't even start how he carry on his job, that I will talk about later.
Claire: I don't even know where to start. Yes, Claire has a trauma. A trauma that should have been treated by now, since it has been 24 years since it happened. ( I will talk more about this under plot). But this doesn't justify she acting like a 5 years old all the time. She was either screaming or pouting or running, while I read a lot that she was one of the best cops out there. At the same time, I feel for that little girl. I'm invested in seeing her get treatment and maybe finally face her past. I want to know more of whom that little girl could become with proper treatment.
Cover: art 3/5, title 4/5, subtitle 3/5, color-font 2/5, buy 3/5 I'm obsessed with cover arts and I have to start here saying that I wouldn't buy this one without reading the blurb. I don't really like the art, I totally dislike the colors that was used. I really like the title and the font. After reading the book, I even like the idea of the girl without a face, but the art and colors really ruined the suspense effect for me. Maybe if she had on different clothes. Something more Claire.
Plot: I have to say that the cop/FBI environment presented here was not good. It didn't feel believable and it really annoyed me. Really, in RL Claire would have never pass a psych evaluation. The way that she handled all her problems by screaming in the middle of her job with everybody and then flying out of the scene, was unprofessional. How the captain of the police and the FBI agent presented here acted most of the time, was also very unprofessional. Also, I have to mention I find quite hard to believe that a family with a huge trauma like that haven't had psychological support. Not only Claire, but the entire family.
This was my first read from the author and I'm looking forward to continue this series.
I'm hoping that on the second book, I'm going to see a more mature Claire trying to finally face her demons so she can have a better life.
Overall:
22.5/35 STARS = 3 STARS ( between 21 stars and 24 stars)
Addictiveness: 3 Character: 2.5 Cover: 2.5 Freshness: 4 Plot: 3.5 Romance: 4 Writing Style: 3
Action 2.5/5
Angst 4/5
Darkness 3/5
Humor 0/5
Romance 5/5
Suspense/Mystery 2/5
Would I recommend? I'm not sure yet. I would like to read the series first.
Would I re-read this book? Maybe, it really depends how long will it take to book #2.
Would I re-read this series? Not sure yet.
Would I read more from the author? Yes, I would like to continue this series.
Character: hero 3/5, heroine 2.5/5, secondary characters 3/5, growth 2/5, real 3/5 Here lies a big part of my struggle with the book.
Wes: I usually prefer the alpha type of hero, a bit of jerk, that likes to control things. Well, not the kind of jerk or control of Wes. Really, that man was always pushing too hard and yelling. Maybe if I had more of Wes POV, I could have connected better with him. The one chapter I had of him, was his best moment for me.
Liam: Really, as a secondary character, he was almost a third main character of the story, but he was as horrible and obnoxious as Wes. I won't even start how he carry on his job, that I will talk about later.
Claire: I don't even know where to start. Yes, Claire has a trauma. A trauma that should have been treated by now, since it has been 24 years since it happened. ( I will talk more about this under plot). But this doesn't justify she acting like a 5 years old all the time. She was either screaming or pouting or running, while I read a lot that she was one of the best cops out there. At the same time, I feel for that little girl. I'm invested in seeing her get treatment and maybe finally face her past. I want to know more of whom that little girl could become with proper treatment.
Cover: art 3/5, title 4/5, subtitle 3/5, color-font 2/5, buy 3/5 I'm obsessed with cover arts and I have to start here saying that I wouldn't buy this one without reading the blurb. I don't really like the art, I totally dislike the colors that was used. I really like the title and the font. After reading the book, I even like the idea of the girl without a face, but the art and colors really ruined the suspense effect for me. Maybe if she had on different clothes. Something more Claire.
Plot: I have to say that the cop/FBI environment presented here was not good. It didn't feel believable and it really annoyed me. Really, in RL Claire would have never pass a psych evaluation. The way that she handled all her problems by screaming in the middle of her job with everybody and then flying out of the scene, was unprofessional. How the captain of the police and the FBI agent presented here acted most of the time, was also very unprofessional. Also, I have to mention I find quite hard to believe that a family with a huge trauma like that haven't had psychological support. Not only Claire, but the entire family.
This was my first read from the author and I'm looking forward to continue this series.
I'm hoping that on the second book, I'm going to see a more mature Claire trying to finally face her demons so she can have a better life.
Overall:
22.5/35 STARS = 3 STARS ( between 21 stars and 24 stars)
Addictiveness: 3 Character: 2.5 Cover: 2.5 Freshness: 4 Plot: 3.5 Romance: 4 Writing Style: 3
Action 2.5/5
Angst 4/5
Darkness 3/5
Humor 0/5
Romance 5/5
Suspense/Mystery 2/5
Would I recommend? I'm not sure yet. I would like to read the series first.
Would I re-read this book? Maybe, it really depends how long will it take to book #2.
Would I re-read this series? Not sure yet.
Would I read more from the author? Yes, I would like to continue this series.
You MAY read this because you follow the author; you SHOULD read this if you are looking for a bit of angst; you MUST read this because it has an interesting plot.This review was originally posted on More Books Than Livros
March 22, 2018
A young boy disappears, and for Detective Claire Goodnite this case may be hitting a little too close to home. She is going to do everything in her power to bring the young boy justice... a battle she is doing for younger self, just as much for him. The last thing she wants, or needs, is another dark piece of her past coming back to interfere with her work...
FBI Special Agent Wesley O'Connell made a huge mistake when he let Claire slip through his fingers. Determined to never let that happen again, he is doing everything in his power to protect her, and at the same time carving out a permanent space for himself in her life. Whether she wants him there or not.
Old feelings and revisited nightmares are working against Claire and her mission to solve this case. But the biggest hurdle is one very persistent FBI agent who shadows her every move, and reminds her why she used to love him...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Claire went through some trauma at a young age, and as a result her loved ones tend to treat her like she is fragile and liable to break at any moment. She loves her job, and using her past to fuel her desire to catch criminals is incredibly satisfying. But, when her latest case brings back memories of her ordeal, her spot on the case is threatened by those who claim they want the best for her.
Wes has been friends with Claire's brother for a long time, and he takes a calculated risk in announcing their past relationship. Not being man enough back then to be what Claire truly needed, he is working on proving himself to her now. He would do anything for Claire, but when she asks him to let her keep working a case that proves dangerous, will he keep his promises...
This was an excellent book! I loved the heated and sexual tension filled encounters between Claire and Wes, which lead to some pretty explosive sex! Their banter was fantastic and highly entertaining, and the story is one that keeps you on the edge of you seat.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
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https://nightbirdnovels.com/2018/03/2...
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FBI Special Agent Wesley O'Connell made a huge mistake when he let Claire slip through his fingers. Determined to never let that happen again, he is doing everything in his power to protect her, and at the same time carving out a permanent space for himself in her life. Whether she wants him there or not.
Old feelings and revisited nightmares are working against Claire and her mission to solve this case. But the biggest hurdle is one very persistent FBI agent who shadows her every move, and reminds her why she used to love him...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Claire went through some trauma at a young age, and as a result her loved ones tend to treat her like she is fragile and liable to break at any moment. She loves her job, and using her past to fuel her desire to catch criminals is incredibly satisfying. But, when her latest case brings back memories of her ordeal, her spot on the case is threatened by those who claim they want the best for her.
Wes has been friends with Claire's brother for a long time, and he takes a calculated risk in announcing their past relationship. Not being man enough back then to be what Claire truly needed, he is working on proving himself to her now. He would do anything for Claire, but when she asks him to let her keep working a case that proves dangerous, will he keep his promises...
This was an excellent book! I loved the heated and sexual tension filled encounters between Claire and Wes, which lead to some pretty explosive sex! Their banter was fantastic and highly entertaining, and the story is one that keeps you on the edge of you seat.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the Blog!
https://nightbirdnovels.com/2018/03/2...
Follow Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Twitter
Follow Me on Instagram
March 9, 2018
Tell Me A Story is my second book by Jennifer Rebecca and while it's different in almost every way to Attack Zone, I loved it. I really enjoyed experiencing the author's range.
Tell Me A Story is a fantastic book full of characters that I wanted to hug, cheer, choke and kiss. Detective Claire Goodnight is a great character, deeply flawed but so genuine and earnest that you can't help but root for her. Against everyone except, SAIC Wes O'Connell, Claire's arch nemesis and the star crossed love of her life. I just couldn't bring myself to root against Wes. He messed up years ago and Claire walked away bruised from their encounter but I loved how he decided this time would end differently and doggedly pursued that goal. His tactics might have been a little highhanded but his heart was in the right place. Plus, I agreed with every swoony female about how hot he was.
The case they're working is dangerous and unusual with twists and turns galore but it was the impact it had on Claire that had me fascinated and turning the page as fast as I could.
Great book full of great characters, awesome storyline and a super hot Alpha.
Tell Me A Story is a fantastic book full of characters that I wanted to hug, cheer, choke and kiss. Detective Claire Goodnight is a great character, deeply flawed but so genuine and earnest that you can't help but root for her. Against everyone except, SAIC Wes O'Connell, Claire's arch nemesis and the star crossed love of her life. I just couldn't bring myself to root against Wes. He messed up years ago and Claire walked away bruised from their encounter but I loved how he decided this time would end differently and doggedly pursued that goal. His tactics might have been a little highhanded but his heart was in the right place. Plus, I agreed with every swoony female about how hot he was.
The case they're working is dangerous and unusual with twists and turns galore but it was the impact it had on Claire that had me fascinated and turning the page as fast as I could.
Great book full of great characters, awesome storyline and a super hot Alpha.
April 22, 2018
4 stars
Tell Me A Story is my second book by Jennifer Rebecca and while it's dfferent in almost every way from Attack Zone, I loved it. I really enjoyed experiencing the author's range.
Tell Me A Story is a fantastic book full of characters that I wanted to hug, cheer, choke and kiss. Detective Claire Goodnight is a great character, deeply flawed but so genuine and earnest that you can't help but root for her. Against everyone except, SAIC Wes O'Connell, Claire's arch nemesis and the star crossed love of her life. I just couldn't bring myself to root against Wes. He messed up years ago and Claire walked away bruised from their encounter but I loved how he decided this time would end differently and doggedly pursued that goal. His tactics might have been a little highhanded but his heart was in the right place. Plus, I agreed with every swoony female about how hot he was.
The case they're working is dangerous and unusual with twists and turns galore but it was the impact it had on Claire that had me fascinated and turning the page as fast as I could.
Great book full of great characters, awesome storyline and a super hot Alpha.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Tell Me A Story is my second book by Jennifer Rebecca and while it's dfferent in almost every way from Attack Zone, I loved it. I really enjoyed experiencing the author's range.
Tell Me A Story is a fantastic book full of characters that I wanted to hug, cheer, choke and kiss. Detective Claire Goodnight is a great character, deeply flawed but so genuine and earnest that you can't help but root for her. Against everyone except, SAIC Wes O'Connell, Claire's arch nemesis and the star crossed love of her life. I just couldn't bring myself to root against Wes. He messed up years ago and Claire walked away bruised from their encounter but I loved how he decided this time would end differently and doggedly pursued that goal. His tactics might have been a little highhanded but his heart was in the right place. Plus, I agreed with every swoony female about how hot he was.
The case they're working is dangerous and unusual with twists and turns galore but it was the impact it had on Claire that had me fascinated and turning the page as fast as I could.
Great book full of great characters, awesome storyline and a super hot Alpha.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
March 26, 2018
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of Detective Claire Goodnite who is investigating the disappearance of a young boy from his home town in New Jersey.
But her boss and over protective brother Liam doesn’t want her on the case because it will bring up all old memories that are better left hidden. So he calls in FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell to take over the case, but Claire is having none of it as she has some past history with Wes and it didn’t end well.
We see how they both work together to locate the missing boy and how the chemistry between them is still there, Wes wants to try again but will Claire want to go through all that again.
This was a good story by Jennifer Rebecca and look forward to the next instalment.
This is the story of Detective Claire Goodnite who is investigating the disappearance of a young boy from his home town in New Jersey.
But her boss and over protective brother Liam doesn’t want her on the case because it will bring up all old memories that are better left hidden. So he calls in FBI Special Agent Wesley O’Connell to take over the case, but Claire is having none of it as she has some past history with Wes and it didn’t end well.
We see how they both work together to locate the missing boy and how the chemistry between them is still there, Wes wants to try again but will Claire want to go through all that again.
This was a good story by Jennifer Rebecca and look forward to the next instalment.
October 1, 2022
When a six year old boy goes missing, Captain Liam Goodnite reluctantly turns the case over to his sister, Claire. His reluctance seems valid when it emerges that Detective Goodnite is still having nightmares about her own abduction at the same age. His best friend, Wes, is a Fed, and he encourages his participation in the case, which causes more problems for Claire since she has been in love with him for years.
A steamy, edgy, romance, and a thriller worthy of the likes of Child or Slaughter. I may have found a new author to add to my favourites list.
A steamy, edgy, romance, and a thriller worthy of the likes of Child or Slaughter. I may have found a new author to add to my favourites list.
October 22, 2021
This new to me author blew me away with Claire's story!
She drew me in and I didn't want to leave.
Claire is so broken by her past. She's fighting her life long crush of Wes.
Wes, I love him, I hate him, I LOVE HIM!
I don't want to say too much so you can get the full, emotional effect of their story, but heck, he is ten years older than she is! Experienced. More mature. Or was he?
You dread to get to the end. To hear the whole story, but, you must. You want Claire to heal, and with her, yourself!
So good! I'm checking out Ms. Rebecca's other novels!
She drew me in and I didn't want to leave.
Claire is so broken by her past. She's fighting her life long crush of Wes.
Wes, I love him, I hate him, I LOVE HIM!
I don't want to say too much so you can get the full, emotional effect of their story, but heck, he is ten years older than she is! Experienced. More mature. Or was he?
You dread to get to the end. To hear the whole story, but, you must. You want Claire to heal, and with her, yourself!
So good! I'm checking out Ms. Rebecca's other novels!
March 26, 2018
2.5 / 3 stars
This cover is gorgeous and I was intrigued by the synopsis. Unfortunately, this book wasn't for me. The storyline held my attention, but I kept waiting for something BIG to happen that never came. I couldn't really fell in love with the characters.
.
Still, I know we won't always love every book we pick up. And, although, this book wasn't for me it just might be for you.
This cover is gorgeous and I was intrigued by the synopsis. Unfortunately, this book wasn't for me. The storyline held my attention, but I kept waiting for something BIG to happen that never came. I couldn't really fell in love with the characters.
.
Still, I know we won't always love every book we pick up. And, although, this book wasn't for me it just might be for you.
March 27, 2018
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https://winebooksnchill.blogspot.mx/
April 11, 2019
Page turner
I stumbled across this book on Facebook. Being from New Jersey it intrigued me & I love a good mystery. It's had more sex in it than my usual books but that didn't bother me. Although a little annoying, Claire Goodnite is a lot like my fellow Jersey Girls. Color me surprised to find that the writer wasn't one. Although I had some parts figured out it had a few surprises for me. It has a well thought out plot that if you pay attention it's all there so it's not some unrealistic twist. It's all intricately woven into the story. I like that - pulling some random villain out of nowhere is something that turns me off books. This did not disappoint.
I stumbled across this book on Facebook. Being from New Jersey it intrigued me & I love a good mystery. It's had more sex in it than my usual books but that didn't bother me. Although a little annoying, Claire Goodnite is a lot like my fellow Jersey Girls. Color me surprised to find that the writer wasn't one. Although I had some parts figured out it had a few surprises for me. It has a well thought out plot that if you pay attention it's all there so it's not some unrealistic twist. It's all intricately woven into the story. I like that - pulling some random villain out of nowhere is something that turns me off books. This did not disappoint.
April 20, 2018
~4.5 Stars~
Tell Me A Story by Jennifer Rebecca was a wonderful combination of romance and mystery.
Claire Goodnite is a detective for George Washington Township in New Jersey, and she is good at her job. To say she is a complicated and complex character would be putting it mildly. As a child, Claire lived a horrible nightmare. She was kidnapped, but she survived. She has tried to live a normal life as possible despite the nightmares she sometimes has. Now, a young boy has disappeared, and she will do whatever it takes to bring him home to his family. The case is bringing up horrible memories for her, and her nightmares are becoming more frequent. Now, the only man she ever loved and who shattered her is back to help with the case…FBI Special Agent, Wesley O’Connell.
I was drawn to Claire from the beginning. My heart broke for her through her flashbacks. Her tenacity and will to survive was AMAZING! She was a strong child, and she is an even stronger adult. She doesn’t lean on others too much because when Wesley saw her at her worst, he left her. Now, he and her brother, Liam, who is the chief of police and Wesley’s best friend, don’t want her working on the case. I could understand their concern. They are trying to protect her, and they felt like they failed her as a child. They both somewhat blame themselves for her kidnapping.
As stubborn as Claire is, so is Wesley. He is unwilling to allow her to do this on her own. He is determined to win her back. He did not leave her for the reason that she thought he did. He thought he wasn’t enough for her, not that she was damaged. He will do whatever it takes to make her understand that and prove to her that he loves her and won’t leave her again.
The plot and mystery of the book was as good as the romance was. The author kept me guessing which kept me turning the pages with all the twists and turns.
Jennifer Rebecca is a new writer to me, and I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Tell Me A Story by Jennifer Rebecca was a wonderful combination of romance and mystery.
Claire Goodnite is a detective for George Washington Township in New Jersey, and she is good at her job. To say she is a complicated and complex character would be putting it mildly. As a child, Claire lived a horrible nightmare. She was kidnapped, but she survived. She has tried to live a normal life as possible despite the nightmares she sometimes has. Now, a young boy has disappeared, and she will do whatever it takes to bring him home to his family. The case is bringing up horrible memories for her, and her nightmares are becoming more frequent. Now, the only man she ever loved and who shattered her is back to help with the case…FBI Special Agent, Wesley O’Connell.
I was drawn to Claire from the beginning. My heart broke for her through her flashbacks. Her tenacity and will to survive was AMAZING! She was a strong child, and she is an even stronger adult. She doesn’t lean on others too much because when Wesley saw her at her worst, he left her. Now, he and her brother, Liam, who is the chief of police and Wesley’s best friend, don’t want her working on the case. I could understand their concern. They are trying to protect her, and they felt like they failed her as a child. They both somewhat blame themselves for her kidnapping.
As stubborn as Claire is, so is Wesley. He is unwilling to allow her to do this on her own. He is determined to win her back. He did not leave her for the reason that she thought he did. He thought he wasn’t enough for her, not that she was damaged. He will do whatever it takes to make her understand that and prove to her that he loves her and won’t leave her again.
The plot and mystery of the book was as good as the romance was. The author kept me guessing which kept me turning the pages with all the twists and turns.
Jennifer Rebecca is a new writer to me, and I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
March 5, 2018
Like more Jennifer Rebecca novels, I get sucked in right from the start and cannot put the book down until I'm finished. Taking a different approach, Tell Me A Story features a heavier, darker tone. Even so, Rebecca's unique writing style still graces the pages. I loved Detective Claire Goodnite. She was a strong, independent heroine with a damaged past. She has to learn to trust those around her and decide if letting herself be happy is worth the work and pain it will take to fix herself. Then there's the leading man, FBI Special Agent Wes O'Connell. While he isn't overly humorous, the banter between Claire and Wes helps keep the story entertaining. If you love alphas with a badge, then you'll downright love Wes. Nearly every female character written into the story embodies the way readers will feel about him; all breathy tones and lust filled eyes. Tell Me A Story was a wonderful read and once more, I can't wait to see what comes next.
March 5, 2018
Loved this book!
August 9, 2018
For my thoughts on this book, and the rest of the series, check out my review for book three, Say a Sweet Prayer!
January 4, 2020
Confused as to how this chick is the best detective in New Jersey? She is a grown women and the best detective in New Jersey and there is never a mention of forensic evident no coroner’s report no really bringing in residents for questioning. Just I think we are focusing on the murder we have a sex scene.
And why are running away from your superior officer at your JOB even if he is your brother? What are we 2?
I am going to giving the next book a chance but I will not finish reading if she gets stupid in first 30 pages.
And why are running away from your superior officer at your JOB even if he is your brother? What are we 2?
I am going to giving the next book a chance but I will not finish reading if she gets stupid in first 30 pages.
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