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Cape Charade #3
Strangers She Knows
I have three deadly problems:
1. I've seriously offended a maniacal killer.
2. I just had a bullet removed from my brain.
3. My new daughter is growing up too fast--and she's in the line of fire.
Living on an obscure, technology-free island off California means safety from the murderer who hunts Kellen Adams and her new family.... Or does it? Family time becomes terror-time, and at last, alone, Kellen faces a killer playing a cruel game. Only one can survive, and Kellen knows who must win...and who must die.
1. I've seriously offended a maniacal killer.
2. I just had a bullet removed from my brain.
3. My new daughter is growing up too fast--and she's in the line of fire.
Living on an obscure, technology-free island off California means safety from the murderer who hunts Kellen Adams and her new family.... Or does it? Family time becomes terror-time, and at last, alone, Kellen faces a killer playing a cruel game. Only one can survive, and Kellen knows who must win...and who must die.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 17, 2019
483 people are currently reading
4403 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dodd
103 books5,923 followersUpcoming:
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 322 reviews
May 4, 2020
Strangers She Knows by Christina Dodd is a 2019 HQN publication.
I have a terrible habit of putting off the last book in a trilogy or series when I don’t want it to end. I’ve had this last installment in the Cape Charade series on my Kindle for a while, but have been reluctant to read it. I’ve been hoping for an extension or a crossover series to be announced, but it looks as though that’s not going to happen- at least not any time soon.
So, I finally pulled this book out of hibernation and prepared myself to send these beloved characters in the land of happily ever afters…
As it turns out, I couldn’t have picked a better time to read this book. The Di Luca family is still adjusting to some of the unpleasant side effects of Kellen’s brain surgery, when news of an old nemesis force them to ‘shelter in place’ on a secretive and secluded island owned by the Di Luca estate.
Many people right now, can probably relate to the feelings of boredom and isolation Rae, Kellen and Max experienced, which was made worse by their lack of computers and cell phones. Rae, who is on the cusp of puberty, is experiencing some mood swings and challenging her parents in a precursor of things to come. However, the discovery of an old diary keeps the family riveted as they slowly read through it, revealing a sad story of lost love.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to the Di Luca’s their arch enemy is edging closer and closer….
Rae, the delightful, inquisitive child we grew to love has matured into an annoying stage, but is, more than anyone in this last installment, the centerpiece of the story. The suspense is intense in one or two places and the diary entries the entire family looked forward to reading, helped give the story an added bit of warmth and depth.
The obvious goal of this final chapter in the series is to wrap things up, therefore, the stage was set for the long- anticipated showdown we all knew had to happen. While this installment didn’t have the action and adventure we’ve come to expect, it was a fitting premise, and conducive to Kellen’s health. Still the heroics were more than adequate.
So, although this last installment was perhaps a bit subdued compared to previous installments, the conclusion was both poignant and humorous and sent the series off with a lovely farewell.
I’m wondering if, in the future, we might see Rae emerge as the heroine in her own series- a YA mystery series, with Max and Kellen appearing regularly. What do you say, Ms. Dodd? I don’t read YA that often, but I’m game, if you are!
4 stars
I have a terrible habit of putting off the last book in a trilogy or series when I don’t want it to end. I’ve had this last installment in the Cape Charade series on my Kindle for a while, but have been reluctant to read it. I’ve been hoping for an extension or a crossover series to be announced, but it looks as though that’s not going to happen- at least not any time soon.
So, I finally pulled this book out of hibernation and prepared myself to send these beloved characters in the land of happily ever afters…
As it turns out, I couldn’t have picked a better time to read this book. The Di Luca family is still adjusting to some of the unpleasant side effects of Kellen’s brain surgery, when news of an old nemesis force them to ‘shelter in place’ on a secretive and secluded island owned by the Di Luca estate.
Many people right now, can probably relate to the feelings of boredom and isolation Rae, Kellen and Max experienced, which was made worse by their lack of computers and cell phones. Rae, who is on the cusp of puberty, is experiencing some mood swings and challenging her parents in a precursor of things to come. However, the discovery of an old diary keeps the family riveted as they slowly read through it, revealing a sad story of lost love.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to the Di Luca’s their arch enemy is edging closer and closer….
Rae, the delightful, inquisitive child we grew to love has matured into an annoying stage, but is, more than anyone in this last installment, the centerpiece of the story. The suspense is intense in one or two places and the diary entries the entire family looked forward to reading, helped give the story an added bit of warmth and depth.
The obvious goal of this final chapter in the series is to wrap things up, therefore, the stage was set for the long- anticipated showdown we all knew had to happen. While this installment didn’t have the action and adventure we’ve come to expect, it was a fitting premise, and conducive to Kellen’s health. Still the heroics were more than adequate.
So, although this last installment was perhaps a bit subdued compared to previous installments, the conclusion was both poignant and humorous and sent the series off with a lovely farewell.
I’m wondering if, in the future, we might see Rae emerge as the heroine in her own series- a YA mystery series, with Max and Kellen appearing regularly. What do you say, Ms. Dodd? I don’t read YA that often, but I’m game, if you are!
4 stars
June 14, 2023
Revenge comes at different temperatures. Strangers She Knows (Cape Charade #3) explores the possibilities centered around a family who has already endured way too much.
There is the revenge “best served cold” which is the choice of a demented serial killer with a serious grudge against Kellen and Max Di Luca. After all, the killer has been patient enough to wait on the removal of a bullet from Kellen’s brain and for her to work through all of the severe complications resulting from her surgery.
There is the red hot revenge a mother and wife feels when the crazed killer threatens her family..
Then there is the invented-in –the-depths-of-hell revenge; when a grandmother finally witnesses the curse she uttered all those years ago finally come to fruition “Just wait until you have children.”
Kellen, Max and Rae Di Luca are living at the Yearning Sands resort on the wild stunning coast of Washington State. Max is managing the resort, while Kellen is doing her best to fully recover from her brain surgery.. Her atrophied dominant hand is about all that is left to work on. Kellen must play the piano as a major part of her physical therapy much to the dismay of her family and their dog. You know what they say, “Everyone’s a critic”.
Max and Kellen are notified they are the target of the serial killer they helped capture four years back. The killer who was clever enough to escape jail and have it go unreported. They leave the resort and travel a circuitous route throughout a good part of the world, finally ending up on a little known Di Luca owned island off the northern coast of California. The only other inhabitants are the caretaker, his wife and the cook they brought with them.
There is no cell phone service, WiFi, internet etc. the Di Luca’s are totally cut off except for the radio in the helicopter they used for the final leg of their escape. It takes awhile for the family to adjust to a non-wired world, but they make lovely new discoveries, including a diary from the war years of the young girl whose father was the original owner of the Hearst-like home they now occupy on the island.
After weeks of mostly idyllic living, they are finally confronted by the serial killer. Unfortunately Kellen is soon left alone to confront the killer in a mano a mano contest.
Their chase and fight to the death contest is terrifying, yet highly original as Kellen is at a severe disadvantage to begin with. Imagine if you will, a villain that is a cross between Jillian Michaels and Ted Bundy.
Ms Dodd writes a refreshingly original story, which can’t be easy when the book concerns serial killers. She also writes characters that are easy to care about. Ms Dodd Dodd can also write of breathtaking settings that have you searching the web for travel in formation. Her pacing is perfect with the first half of the book harmonized with island living and the second half matched with Kellen’s frantic fight to stay alive and keep her family safe.
Strangers She Knows (Cape Charade #3) is the third book in a terrific series that should not be missed. However if you are new to the series and can’t resist, Ms Dodd provides enough information so the new reader is quickly caught up on the series. But not so much that the new reader should resist going back and reading the first two books and short stories.
Thank you to Ms Dodd for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
There is the revenge “best served cold” which is the choice of a demented serial killer with a serious grudge against Kellen and Max Di Luca. After all, the killer has been patient enough to wait on the removal of a bullet from Kellen’s brain and for her to work through all of the severe complications resulting from her surgery.
There is the red hot revenge a mother and wife feels when the crazed killer threatens her family..
Then there is the invented-in –the-depths-of-hell revenge; when a grandmother finally witnesses the curse she uttered all those years ago finally come to fruition “Just wait until you have children.”
Kellen, Max and Rae Di Luca are living at the Yearning Sands resort on the wild stunning coast of Washington State. Max is managing the resort, while Kellen is doing her best to fully recover from her brain surgery.. Her atrophied dominant hand is about all that is left to work on. Kellen must play the piano as a major part of her physical therapy much to the dismay of her family and their dog. You know what they say, “Everyone’s a critic”.
Max and Kellen are notified they are the target of the serial killer they helped capture four years back. The killer who was clever enough to escape jail and have it go unreported. They leave the resort and travel a circuitous route throughout a good part of the world, finally ending up on a little known Di Luca owned island off the northern coast of California. The only other inhabitants are the caretaker, his wife and the cook they brought with them.
There is no cell phone service, WiFi, internet etc. the Di Luca’s are totally cut off except for the radio in the helicopter they used for the final leg of their escape. It takes awhile for the family to adjust to a non-wired world, but they make lovely new discoveries, including a diary from the war years of the young girl whose father was the original owner of the Hearst-like home they now occupy on the island.
After weeks of mostly idyllic living, they are finally confronted by the serial killer. Unfortunately Kellen is soon left alone to confront the killer in a mano a mano contest.
Their chase and fight to the death contest is terrifying, yet highly original as Kellen is at a severe disadvantage to begin with. Imagine if you will, a villain that is a cross between Jillian Michaels and Ted Bundy.
Ms Dodd writes a refreshingly original story, which can’t be easy when the book concerns serial killers. She also writes characters that are easy to care about. Ms Dodd Dodd can also write of breathtaking settings that have you searching the web for travel in formation. Her pacing is perfect with the first half of the book harmonized with island living and the second half matched with Kellen’s frantic fight to stay alive and keep her family safe.
Strangers She Knows (Cape Charade #3) is the third book in a terrific series that should not be missed. However if you are new to the series and can’t resist, Ms Dodd provides enough information so the new reader is quickly caught up on the series. But not so much that the new reader should resist going back and reading the first two books and short stories.
Thank you to Ms Dodd for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 26, 2019
I think I might have enjoyed this book more if I'd realized it was the third book in a trilogy. When NetGalley granted my request to read this, that's when I realized I had not. But I'm also not sure I would have made it to the third book because I didn't love the writing. I don't always have to read high-brow stuff; I read a lot of suspense, but I just didn't fall in love with the writing or characters.
Thanks to NetGally for allowing me to review this novel.
For more reviews, please visit http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
Thanks to NetGally for allowing me to review this novel.
For more reviews, please visit http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
September 9, 2019
In this thrilling conclusion of the Cape Charade series, Kellen is finally free to live a quiet life. Well, actually, she is rather forced to do so. She has just had a bullet removed from her brain and she is currently striving to regain some skills. She is now with her husband, Max and daughter Rae.
However, Kellen is not so safe after all. Someone has managed to escape prison, thus forcing Kellen and her family to flee in order to survive. What a challenge for Kellen. She has proven to be a strong, resourceful woman who has survived the unthinkable before now. Currently, however, she is far less than 100%, and she has much more at stake since she is finally with her family.
I have read every book in this series, including the prequel and the novellas. I am truly invested in Kellen, Max and Rae. I adore them, in fact. Kellen is by far my favorite heroine in any book I have ever read. What Kellen must do to survive is nothing less than miraculous! She must use her wits to deal with a formidable foe. Max has proven to be excellent in this series and is even more so in this story.
Although this book was not due to be out for several months when I received it, I pushed aside my TBR only to sit down and read it from cover-to-cover in one sitting. My only sadness is that we have reached the end of this incredible series.
Hard to Kill, Dead Girl Running, Families and Other Enemies, What Doesn't Kill Her and Hidden Truths are the previous books in what is one of the best series I have ever read.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
However, Kellen is not so safe after all. Someone has managed to escape prison, thus forcing Kellen and her family to flee in order to survive. What a challenge for Kellen. She has proven to be a strong, resourceful woman who has survived the unthinkable before now. Currently, however, she is far less than 100%, and she has much more at stake since she is finally with her family.
I have read every book in this series, including the prequel and the novellas. I am truly invested in Kellen, Max and Rae. I adore them, in fact. Kellen is by far my favorite heroine in any book I have ever read. What Kellen must do to survive is nothing less than miraculous! She must use her wits to deal with a formidable foe. Max has proven to be excellent in this series and is even more so in this story.
Although this book was not due to be out for several months when I received it, I pushed aside my TBR only to sit down and read it from cover-to-cover in one sitting. My only sadness is that we have reached the end of this incredible series.
Hard to Kill, Dead Girl Running, Families and Other Enemies, What Doesn't Kill Her and Hidden Truths are the previous books in what is one of the best series I have ever read.
Many thanks to HQN Books and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 10, 2019
This is a wonderful, well-written, fast paced romantic suspense novel with likable, engaging characters and a heart warming romance. It is an excellent conclusion to Ms. Dodd's outstanding Cape Charade series.
September 23, 2019
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
This is not my favorite Christina Dodd by a long shot. There are so many moments when I just shook my head and said, "huh". The final showdown between Kellen and her arch enemy, Mara, was exciting, but the whole thing was a far gone conclusion. Rae was wonderful and the whole Ruby Morgade plot line was fascinating, if sad.
Mara Phillipi, the whack job baddie from the pervious books, has escaped prison and shown up in Cape Charade. She has the Di Luca family running scared because she has threatened Kellen, who is still recovering from brain surgery. The family. Max, Kellen and Rae, flee taking a trip through Europe attempting to evade her and end up on a Di Luca privately owned island off the coast of Nor Cal with no outside communications. They are basically hiding out and the mansion they escape to appears to be haunted. You just know that they may be safe for awhile, but they won't be safe for long. 3 1/2-Stars
This is not my favorite Christina Dodd by a long shot. There are so many moments when I just shook my head and said, "huh". The final showdown between Kellen and her arch enemy, Mara, was exciting, but the whole thing was a far gone conclusion. Rae was wonderful and the whole Ruby Morgade plot line was fascinating, if sad.
Mara Phillipi, the whack job baddie from the pervious books, has escaped prison and shown up in Cape Charade. She has the Di Luca family running scared because she has threatened Kellen, who is still recovering from brain surgery. The family. Max, Kellen and Rae, flee taking a trip through Europe attempting to evade her and end up on a Di Luca privately owned island off the coast of Nor Cal with no outside communications. They are basically hiding out and the mansion they escape to appears to be haunted. You just know that they may be safe for awhile, but they won't be safe for long. 3 1/2-Stars
September 14, 2019
Strangers She Knows by Christina Dodd is the third and final book in the Cape Charade series. Ms. Dodd has perfected the art of writing a gripping suspense novel and yet providing a little humor throughout the story to relieve the tension.
I adore Rae. She has grown so much throughout this series. She reflects both her mom and her dad's strong characteristics. The plot moved at breakneck speed that kept me turning the pages all day. Honestly, I could not put the book down. I was terrorized by Mara. Ms. Dodd's descriptive writing of Mara had me filled with fear as I read. Seriously, that woman was scary. A gripping suspense filled with action from beginning to end. The ending was perfect as Kellen, Max and Rae have become a true family with more peace for all of them in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
I adore Rae. She has grown so much throughout this series. She reflects both her mom and her dad's strong characteristics. The plot moved at breakneck speed that kept me turning the pages all day. Honestly, I could not put the book down. I was terrorized by Mara. Ms. Dodd's descriptive writing of Mara had me filled with fear as I read. Seriously, that woman was scary. A gripping suspense filled with action from beginning to end. The ending was perfect as Kellen, Max and Rae have become a true family with more peace for all of them in the future.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 24, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Thrillers, Suspense
*Rating* 3-3.5
*Thoughts*
Strangers She Knows, by Christina Dodd, is apparently the final chapter in her Cape Charade series. I recommend that future readers read the series in order as it follows the main character Kellen Adams through a series of hair raising adventures. I haven't read the in-between novella's, so I might be a hypocrite in telling other readers to do so. However, the story will make more sense to you if you have read the others. In this episode, Kellen Adams is healing after brain surgery but things quickly escalate when Kellen's former best friend/nemesis escapes from Federal prison.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Thrillers, Suspense
*Rating* 3-3.5
*Thoughts*
Strangers She Knows, by Christina Dodd, is apparently the final chapter in her Cape Charade series. I recommend that future readers read the series in order as it follows the main character Kellen Adams through a series of hair raising adventures. I haven't read the in-between novella's, so I might be a hypocrite in telling other readers to do so. However, the story will make more sense to you if you have read the others. In this episode, Kellen Adams is healing after brain surgery but things quickly escalate when Kellen's former best friend/nemesis escapes from Federal prison.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 14, 2019
Strangers She Knows by Christina Dodd is the third book in Cape Charade series. Each book in this fast paced series can be read on its own since the author provides a recap (just enough to catch you up, but not too much as to spoil the other books in the series for new readers). Kellen Adams Di Luca has gone through so much in the last few years. She is denied her wedding night and honeymoon when the bullet in her brain shifts requiring immediate surgery. Kellen does survive the surgery, but she has a long recovery. She returns home still weak and with one hand that is refusing to cooperate. The therapist recommends piano lessons which is torture for Kellen and everyone else in the family including Luna, Rae’s dog (everyone’s a critic). When Mara resurfaces and is determined to get revenge, Kellen is not strong enough to go after her on her own. The family moves to the remote Isla Paraiso with a cook, Olympia Paolerio and the two islands caretakers, Jamie and Dylan Conkle. The family explores the island thanks to the three bikes Max had shipped in for them and they get reacquainted. The pacing in the first half is more laid back (feel the island vibe) with the second half ramped up like a person after drinking three espressos in a row. Kellen is trying to survive a maniacal killer. You can feel the suspense, tension and pain. Rae is still her fearless and intelligent self but now puberty is hitting (her poor parents). She manages to get into scrapes even on an island. I like how Rae is still a young girl at times who needs her parents. Max and Kellen are just beginning their marriage and they have no privacy. They are learning each other’s quirks and foibles. It was interesting to learn more about Mara. She is a complex woman and her upbringing explains a lot. I really enjoyed the addition of Ruby’s diary. I thought it enhanced the story as added depth and interest plus gives us a second mystery. I enjoyed the various references to Harry Potter and Hogwarts. Strangers She Knows is one of those books that you will not be able to put down. I am sorry to see the Cape Charade series come to an end. Strangers She Knows is a riveting suspense with a mad murderer, a temperamental tween, a remote refuge, panicked parents and an explosive ending.
September 30, 2019
The only reason I have stuck with this series is because I wanted to know how it would all turn out. Overall I found this installment kind of boring compared to the previous two books. The peripheral characters weren't well fleshed out, so I didn't get the sense of drama that the author was attempting to achieve. Basically it was Kellen, Max, and Rae stuck on an island with some non-essential characters and a dog whose paws needed lots of attention, waiting for Mara to figure out where they were so they could have it out with her. Rae is an angsty pre-teen, they find an old journal that keeps them entertained a bit, Max puts together an old truck. There. That's the plot, I'll save you the time. No new revelations, the only thing that elevated it a slight bit for me was the little bit of surprise in the ending action, but even that was super easy to figure out if you thought about it even a little.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
September 20, 2019
I am SO bummed. I have been looking forward to this book and devoured it in one day. This is the last book in what has been proven to be the best series I have ever read by Christina Dodd. Actually, it is one of the very best, period. I just loved Kellen Adams. She has been one of the most interesting characters I have ever read. Brave, honest, tenacious, loyal and definitely unforgettable. I certainly have never encountered another character like her. This book, like all the books in this dynamic series, was intense, edgy, emotional and high stakes. Lots of twists and turns. I am really going to miss the dynamic Kellen, along with Max and Rae. If anyone deserved peace and a happily ever after, that character is Kellen! Oh, maybe we will see her make an appearance again in another cross-over series from Christina Dodd. I can only hope!
November 9, 2019
I read the first 2 full length books in this series and was highly impressed with the strong character and skills of Kellen Adams. Much has happened since the first book. Kellen found her husband Max and daughter Rae. She survived the removal of a bullet from her brain and endured months of rehab.
Here's Kellen's backstory: She's not really Kellen -- she is Cecilia. Kellen is her cousin. Cecilia was in an abusive marriage. Kellen came to get her out of it and died, along with Cecilia's husband. Cecilia assumed Kellen's ID and entered for 6 years in the Army. The first book begins after her service.
Serial killing nemesis Mara comes to Cape Charade to kill Kellen. Mara is known for cutting off the hands of her victims. To protect his family, Max takes them to an island the family owns off the coast of California. The island has no cell phones or internet. The caretakers grow the food there and rely on a rainwater system or fly it in.
I love serial killer stories and old mansions so score 2 touchdowns from the start. Within 30 pages, I had the impression that this story was going to be the weakest so far but the last third saved it. Kellen had a big disadvantage due to the atrophy of her right hand. Thank goodness she got a little unexpected help near the end.
Here's Kellen's backstory: She's not really Kellen -- she is Cecilia. Kellen is her cousin. Cecilia was in an abusive marriage. Kellen came to get her out of it and died, along with Cecilia's husband. Cecilia assumed Kellen's ID and entered for 6 years in the Army. The first book begins after her service.
Serial killing nemesis Mara comes to Cape Charade to kill Kellen. Mara is known for cutting off the hands of her victims. To protect his family, Max takes them to an island the family owns off the coast of California. The island has no cell phones or internet. The caretakers grow the food there and rely on a rainwater system or fly it in.
I love serial killer stories and old mansions so score 2 touchdowns from the start. Within 30 pages, I had the impression that this story was going to be the weakest so far but the last third saved it. Kellen had a big disadvantage due to the atrophy of her right hand. Thank goodness she got a little unexpected help near the end.
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July 2, 2020Categories
Psychological Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Suspense
Miniseries
Cape Charade (Book #3)
Psychological Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Suspense
Miniseries
Cape Charade (Book #3)
December 2, 2019
Psychological Thrillers / Romantic Suspense / Serial Killers / Contemporary
STRANGERS SHE KNOWS is the grand finale of the Cape Charade series starring Kellen Adams. Coming September 17, 2019.
-- Can't wait to read it!
Three years have passed since we last met Kellan Adams in What Doesn't Kill Her. We learn that Kellan has undergone brain surgery to remove the bullet and she's slowly settling back into the family life with her husband, Max and their 10-year-old pre-teen daughter, Rae. Kellan has to rehabilitate her hand post-surgery and she's not at her physical best for the moment. Which is bad because Kellan has made an enemy who happens to be a serial killer and want revenge. Can she and Max overplay deadly enemy this time?
Its another good story by Ms. Dodd with more than enough nail-biting situations. But I have to say that I liked two previous books more. This one had too much of the daily routine on the island (looking through the attic, fixing the truck, biking, reading diary), so this made story drag a little. We get to read villain's POV, so some of the twist weren't so suprising. Also who would go to the secluded island to escape dangerous killer? And how the serial killer escaped from the prison?
STRANGERS SHE KNOWS is the grand finale of the Cape Charade series starring Kellen Adams. Coming September 17, 2019.
-- Can't wait to read it!
Three years have passed since we last met Kellan Adams in What Doesn't Kill Her. We learn that Kellan has undergone brain surgery to remove the bullet and she's slowly settling back into the family life with her husband, Max and their 10-year-old pre-teen daughter, Rae. Kellan has to rehabilitate her hand post-surgery and she's not at her physical best for the moment. Which is bad because Kellan has made an enemy who happens to be a serial killer and want revenge. Can she and Max overplay deadly enemy this time?
Its another good story by Ms. Dodd with more than enough nail-biting situations. But I have to say that I liked two previous books more. This one had too much of the daily routine on the island (looking through the attic, fixing the truck, biking, reading diary), so this made story drag a little. We get to read villain's POV, so some of the twist weren't so suprising. Also who would go to the secluded island to escape dangerous killer? And how the serial killer escaped from the prison?
January 6, 2021
4.5 stars The third and final installment in the Cape Charade series ended on a satisfying note, although I’m sad to see it end. (I loved the found surprise in the old mansions attic—that includes a story within a story, it was the best part of the book!)
Kellen Adams is released from rehab following surgery, but still struggles with the function of her right hand. Just as things are getting back to normal at home, Mari Philippi, a vicious killer they put in prison, has escaped and is looking for vengeance against their family. Max flys Kellen and their daughter Rae to his family’s secluded island off the coast of California. Kellen isn’t convinced they’ll be safe there. (Their very strange island help were creepy as all get out!) Dangerous cat and mouse games, and keeping their daughter safe at all costs, Max and Kellen fight back with their very lives at stake. I loved the terrifying twists. So good!
I highly recommend reading this series in order.
Kellen Adams is released from rehab following surgery, but still struggles with the function of her right hand. Just as things are getting back to normal at home, Mari Philippi, a vicious killer they put in prison, has escaped and is looking for vengeance against their family. Max flys Kellen and their daughter Rae to his family’s secluded island off the coast of California. Kellen isn’t convinced they’ll be safe there. (Their very strange island help were creepy as all get out!) Dangerous cat and mouse games, and keeping their daughter safe at all costs, Max and Kellen fight back with their very lives at stake. I loved the terrifying twists. So good!
I highly recommend reading this series in order.
August 5, 2019
I have to admit that it is rare that I enjoy a thriller. It really takes an exceptional author and a great plot to keep me super into it. This book kept me up half the night! I could not put it down. Christina Dodd is an amazing writer. She has a knack of creating dangerous and scary stories in the most beautiful and mysterious of locations while also making the reader fall in love with the characters. Agh! I have so many good things to say about this book. I read the second book in this series but skipped the first. I read the second one a while back and forgot some details but was able to read this with no problem. I definitely recommend this to anybody who likes a thriller and even those who maybe don't know where to begin in the genre.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2019
OMG! What a story and ending! The first chapter is unbelievably riveting. Solid, well-written characters are hiding out from a crafty serial killer named Mara. I love when Kellen and her daughter Rae come across Ruby Morgade's diary and her story unravels.
I couldn't put this down till the end. This is an amazing series you just have to read if you love suspense. If you know me, you know that I don't like to give anything away in a review. So, all I can truly say is, go read this book. I recommend starting with book one though.
I couldn't put this down till the end. This is an amazing series you just have to read if you love suspense. If you know me, you know that I don't like to give anything away in a review. So, all I can truly say is, go read this book. I recommend starting with book one though.
September 26, 2019
Christina Dodd brings readers another compelling page-turner in this thrilling conclusion to her Cape Charade series. While book two remains my favorite, I have thoroughly enjoyed this entire series and the main characters are some of my all-time Dodd favorites. I so admire Kellen's strength in overcoming all of the obstacles life has placed in her path - more than anyone should have to endure. What she has survived in her still young life is almost inconceivable and yet she continues to fight for her family and herself. But I also enjoy her vulnerability, especially as she grapples with motherhood and gradually learns to accept the fears and emotions that accompany it.
Max is a hero for the ages. I adore this man! I love his tenacity, his steadfast loyalty to those he loves, his determination to protect them at all costs. If you want a hero who continues to step up to the plate and prove his love day after day, month after month, year after year, in spite of seemingly insurmountable odds, Max di Luca is your man.
And then there's Rae. Smart, sassy, filled with boundless energy and curiosity, staunchly devoted to her family, but caught in the hormonal throes of pre-adolescence that keep her mother's head spinning, and the catalyst for much of Dodd's humor; this kid steals every scene she's in. After "meeting" Rae, you will be left with no doubt that Dodd has, at some point in her life, lived with pre-adolescent girls. Like her parents, she's so vividly, and realistically, portrayed, that it would not take a leap of faith to convince myself these characters actually exist.
Amidst the action and suspense of the main story, Dodd has also interwoven a fascinating, secondary, WWII story, as told through the entries in a diary that's found in the island mansion. It adds another layer of emotion and mystery, as well as a very interesting twist.
While this book could be read on its own, I don't recommend it. For a full appreciation of this family's journey and, especially, a complete understanding of Kellen's journey, I strongly recommend reading the three books in order.
*ARC received from author. Opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Max is a hero for the ages. I adore this man! I love his tenacity, his steadfast loyalty to those he loves, his determination to protect them at all costs. If you want a hero who continues to step up to the plate and prove his love day after day, month after month, year after year, in spite of seemingly insurmountable odds, Max di Luca is your man.
And then there's Rae. Smart, sassy, filled with boundless energy and curiosity, staunchly devoted to her family, but caught in the hormonal throes of pre-adolescence that keep her mother's head spinning, and the catalyst for much of Dodd's humor; this kid steals every scene she's in. After "meeting" Rae, you will be left with no doubt that Dodd has, at some point in her life, lived with pre-adolescent girls. Like her parents, she's so vividly, and realistically, portrayed, that it would not take a leap of faith to convince myself these characters actually exist.
Amidst the action and suspense of the main story, Dodd has also interwoven a fascinating, secondary, WWII story, as told through the entries in a diary that's found in the island mansion. It adds another layer of emotion and mystery, as well as a very interesting twist.
While this book could be read on its own, I don't recommend it. For a full appreciation of this family's journey and, especially, a complete understanding of Kellen's journey, I strongly recommend reading the three books in order.
*ARC received from author. Opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
September 12, 2019
Well, I started in and read the last book of this series. Now I can see that I should look up the other books in this series EVEN THOUGH I truly believe STRANGERS SHE KNOWS can be read as a Stand Alone! Naturally I was hooked by the description and the ….three deadly problems describing our heroines status.
1. I've seriously offended a maniacal killer.
2. I just had a bullet removed from my brain.
3. My new daughter is growing up too fast--and she's in the line of fire.
Now who could possibly NOT want to read this book? Definitely not me!
So with a maniacal killer who has escaped from a top high tech prison with no one the wiser until she started leaving bodies behind – where does one hide? She’s a brilliant killer who thinks she knows Kellen’s mind and how it works. And she was once your very best friend who trained with you. Unfortunately you are not 100% physically up for a fight after having brain surgery - hell what now!
Lay a fake trail to numerous places all over the world and set every law enforcement agencies to hunt her while you hide out in the most remotest, hardest to get to, technology free island off the California coast - that’s where! Only to discover that, even the few ‘’friendlies’ on this remote barren island are not all that friendly!
So hop aboard for this amazing story of family time turned terror time as Kellen and her family deal with disgruntled employees, a few friendly ghosts (?), and a maniacal killer!
Absolutely riveting!!
Marilyn Rondeau
1. I've seriously offended a maniacal killer.
2. I just had a bullet removed from my brain.
3. My new daughter is growing up too fast--and she's in the line of fire.
Now who could possibly NOT want to read this book? Definitely not me!
So with a maniacal killer who has escaped from a top high tech prison with no one the wiser until she started leaving bodies behind – where does one hide? She’s a brilliant killer who thinks she knows Kellen’s mind and how it works. And she was once your very best friend who trained with you. Unfortunately you are not 100% physically up for a fight after having brain surgery - hell what now!
Lay a fake trail to numerous places all over the world and set every law enforcement agencies to hunt her while you hide out in the most remotest, hardest to get to, technology free island off the California coast - that’s where! Only to discover that, even the few ‘’friendlies’ on this remote barren island are not all that friendly!
So hop aboard for this amazing story of family time turned terror time as Kellen and her family deal with disgruntled employees, a few friendly ghosts (?), and a maniacal killer!
Absolutely riveting!!
Marilyn Rondeau
September 17, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through Edelweiss+ in exchange for a fair review. Strangers She Knows by Christina Dodd is the final chapter in her thrilling Cape Charade series. I do think that it would be best to read the entire series in order as it follows the main character Kellen Adams through a series of hair raising adventures. This story will make more sense to you if you have read the others and they are all very good. In this book Kellen and her husband Max Di Luca and their daughter Rae are hiding out on an isolated island off the California coast until such time as the authorities re-capture Mara Philippi an escaped serial killer who has promised to take everything away from Kellen the way she feels Kellen took. everything away from her. The old mansion on the island has an unhappy history and the isolation and atmosphere seems to have a disturbing affect on the mental health of the current caretakers of the island. With a dangerous storm moving in, echos of the past seeming to haunt the present and the knowledge that Mara is on her way as the authorities seem unable stop her this book will keep you trepidly turning the pages way past your bedtime. Publishing Date September 17, 2019. Mild Steam. #EdelweissPlus #StrangersSheKnows #ChristinaDodd #HarperCollinsCanada #HarperCollinsPublishers #HarlequinBooks #Bookstagram #ThrillingNovels
August 13, 2019
As the third book in the Cape Charade series, I would recommend reading these in order. However, this one does a great job of recapping important information from previous books, so it could be read as a stand-alone if required. STRANGERS SHE KNOWS follows Kellen, Max, and Rae after they have already been through so much. Kellen, who is not really Kellen, has had brain surgery to remove the bullet in her head and is still doing the hard work of recovering- however, she is alive, so that is certainly better than the alternative.
Max and Kellen are still working to rebuild their relationship, which is more successful every day. Rae is entering puberty, but she is still as tenacious, bold, and unflappable as ever. The three are traveling to a remote island to hide from the escaped serial killer, Mara, who has Kellen in her sights and won't stop until she kills her and takes her hands.
On the remote island, they find a diary of a girl who lived there during WWII and begin to read it, experiencing some maybe supernatural events that lead to a secondary mystery that propels the plot forward.
I found this to be a highly enjoyable suspense read with a light touch of the supernatural (seeming anyway) and mystery as well as romance. I love the main characters, especially Rae and Kellen, who really dominate the story. We also get a bit from Mara, which adds to the appeal of this book. The characters are really strong and the setting in this book is even more intriguing than the previous. It's been a lot of fun to follow these characters, and I would highly recommend for people who like suspense/thrillers.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Max and Kellen are still working to rebuild their relationship, which is more successful every day. Rae is entering puberty, but she is still as tenacious, bold, and unflappable as ever. The three are traveling to a remote island to hide from the escaped serial killer, Mara, who has Kellen in her sights and won't stop until she kills her and takes her hands.
On the remote island, they find a diary of a girl who lived there during WWII and begin to read it, experiencing some maybe supernatural events that lead to a secondary mystery that propels the plot forward.
I found this to be a highly enjoyable suspense read with a light touch of the supernatural (seeming anyway) and mystery as well as romance. I love the main characters, especially Rae and Kellen, who really dominate the story. We also get a bit from Mara, which adds to the appeal of this book. The characters are really strong and the setting in this book is even more intriguing than the previous. It's been a lot of fun to follow these characters, and I would highly recommend for people who like suspense/thrillers.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2019
Kellen Adams just had a bullet removed from her brain. She is trying to get a hand back to working order and she has a maniacal killer after her and her family. So the family goes to an obscure Island off California where there is no technology. No phone service, computers, internet, etc.
They hire someone to be their cook and she gets scared there.
The couple who takes care of everything on the island are strange. The woman doesn't like anyone and her husband is a drunk. Kellen and her daughter find a diary that was owned by someone who had lived in the house many years ago and so it is shrouded in mystery and they want to know more about the author. Then strange things begin to happen and maybe there is a ghost in the house but it doesn't seem to be threatening. Not like the killer who wants Kellen. She becomes a real threat to the family and Kellen is determined to take her down,
I received this from Partners in Crime and NetGalley for review.
They hire someone to be their cook and she gets scared there.
The couple who takes care of everything on the island are strange. The woman doesn't like anyone and her husband is a drunk. Kellen and her daughter find a diary that was owned by someone who had lived in the house many years ago and so it is shrouded in mystery and they want to know more about the author. Then strange things begin to happen and maybe there is a ghost in the house but it doesn't seem to be threatening. Not like the killer who wants Kellen. She becomes a real threat to the family and Kellen is determined to take her down,
I received this from Partners in Crime and NetGalley for review.
July 28, 2019
A big thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin romance for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. Is this part of a series? I felt sort of like I walked into the.middle.of a conversation. This reads just ok as a stand alone. I truly felt like I was missing a lot of information, maybe a chapter about what happens before we arrive? I liked the book, it has a little romance, lots of suspense and a bit.of mystery. I rate this a 3.5
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July 7, 2020What Fun!! Kellen DiLuca has a husband and a child that she loves. She has forgotten and lost years with them while she recovers from an abusive first husband, a head shot she doesn't remember, a stint in the Army and a return to the states. This is the third book in this series, and they are trying to avoid Mara Phillipi, whom Kellen met in the first book. Everything comes to a head in this one, and it is a real thriller. I loved it!!
October 20, 2019
3,5 stars
After the ending of book 2, Kellen fainting at her wedding after seeing Mara Philippi, I was anxious to know what happened next so it was with great expectation that I started this book. It was good, I just wish the final part, where the confrontation between hero and enemy happens, was different.
The descriptions of the mansion in the island and the island itself made me wish I was there - how cool would that be?
Kellen, Max and Rae are such a cute family, I'm very fond of these characters.
After the ending of book 2, Kellen fainting at her wedding after seeing Mara Philippi, I was anxious to know what happened next so it was with great expectation that I started this book. It was good, I just wish the final part, where the confrontation between hero and enemy happens, was different.
The descriptions of the mansion in the island and the island itself made me wish I was there - how cool would that be?
Kellen, Max and Rae are such a cute family, I'm very fond of these characters.
October 16, 2020
I hadn’t realized this was part of a series and perhaps that had something to do with my lack of enthusiasm for this book.
Three main characters, Kellen, her husband Max, and teenage daughter Rae, have the means to hide out on a private island. Sometime in the past, Kellen had upset a serial killer, Mara. Mara has now escaped from prison and is seeking revenge on Kellen. She intends to kill her family, then destroy Kellen.
It’s really rather far fetched and the characters are a bit pathetic. They’ve cut themselves off from all means of communication except the radio in the helicopter. They hope that by doing this they will stay safe until Mara is caught by the authorities. Little chance of that! Especially when Max keeps making trips in the helicopter, to check on progress of the hunt for Mara.
They are on this island for weeks. Their only entertainment bikes (but Kellen is scared of going too fast), a small sail boat (but the seas are too rough and, yet again, Kellen is too scared to go on it), fixing up an old car (luckily all the parts and tools they might need are right at hand) and reading a diary that they found. (It could have been read in about an hour but was drawn out). None of them cooked so I don’t know how they passed the time.
The premise was too far fetched. The characters unbelievably selfish (they didn’t even question the disappearance of one of their friends who was out there looking for Mara. She was tortured and killed by Mara).
And the “ghost” living in secret passages in the house! Get real!
Three main characters, Kellen, her husband Max, and teenage daughter Rae, have the means to hide out on a private island. Sometime in the past, Kellen had upset a serial killer, Mara. Mara has now escaped from prison and is seeking revenge on Kellen. She intends to kill her family, then destroy Kellen.
It’s really rather far fetched and the characters are a bit pathetic. They’ve cut themselves off from all means of communication except the radio in the helicopter. They hope that by doing this they will stay safe until Mara is caught by the authorities. Little chance of that! Especially when Max keeps making trips in the helicopter, to check on progress of the hunt for Mara.
They are on this island for weeks. Their only entertainment bikes (but Kellen is scared of going too fast), a small sail boat (but the seas are too rough and, yet again, Kellen is too scared to go on it), fixing up an old car (luckily all the parts and tools they might need are right at hand) and reading a diary that they found. (It could have been read in about an hour but was drawn out). None of them cooked so I don’t know how they passed the time.
The premise was too far fetched. The characters unbelievably selfish (they didn’t even question the disappearance of one of their friends who was out there looking for Mara. She was tortured and killed by Mara).
And the “ghost” living in secret passages in the house! Get real!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2021
I stupidly didn’t realize this was the third book in a series until I was about 75% done so... my bad. But in my defense, nowhere on the physical book does it say this was part of a series! Was my enjoyment of this book impacted by the fact that I haven’t read the previous installments? Oh absolutely. Am I convinced that I still wouldn’t have liked this even if I had? Yes. It just wasn’t very well-written and it was annoyingly predictable. The dialogue between characters often veered into cringe territory and there was no chemistry between characters. Also the very last line... are you fucking kidding me? Ridiculous. I’m half tempted to knock my rating down because of that alone. OH and there’s one of those dreadful villainous monologues thrown in the mix as well.
September 4, 2020
Kellen is struggling to recover from a bullet to the brain. A murderer with a grudge against Kellen has escaped from prison putting Kellen and her family in danger. The family retreats to a remote island only to find danger has followed them.
I had trouble getting into this book and I found the way the descriptions of the characters were presented distracting. Once I got into it I wanted to find out how the story ended. There was plenty of suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. I am giving the book 3 1/2 stars rounded up to four because of the previously mentioned factors. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
I had trouble getting into this book and I found the way the descriptions of the characters were presented distracting. Once I got into it I wanted to find out how the story ended. There was plenty of suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. I am giving the book 3 1/2 stars rounded up to four because of the previously mentioned factors. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
October 22, 2019
This series is absolutely banana-pants-crazy-sauce, but it ends well.
September 15, 2019
After years of fighting for it, Kellen Adams is finally starting to have the life and family she always wanted. Her only problems now consist of recovering from brain surgery and her daughter Rae growing up too fast- while Kellen is only just getting used to even having a daughter! Then Kellen and husband Max learn that their old enemy, psychotic serial killer Mara Phillips, has escaped prison and is hunting them down. The small family moves to a tiny, technology-free island off the coast of California for safety while the professionals track Mara down. Family time has potential for bonding time, but also for danger when Mara and a typhoon visit the island. Kellen knows it's up to her to face Mara- and only one of them can come out of this game alive.
Strangers She Knows concludes Christina Dodd's Cape Charade series (Dead Girl Running, What Doesn't Kill Her) in intense style. The trilogy has followed Kellen Adams: Army veteran, hotel manager, and a woman who has had more than her share of hardships, danger, and surprises in life, as she becomes part of a family with Max and Rae while still balancing danger and duty. The first part of Strangers focuses mostly on Kellen getting herself back together both physically and mentally, and the three of them creating memories and bonds that they missed out on as Rae was growing up without Kellen. This includes some humorous father-daughter bonding over repairing (or trying to) a F-100 truck, discovering the story of the previous owners of the island, and wonderful reactions to dynamite in the fridge that are classic Kellen and Max.
Mara Phillips (Dead Girl Running) was supposed to be locked up forever, but in true criminal mastermind fashion, Mara escapes and comes after Kellen and anyone else she believes betrayed her. When Dodd decides to go for a crazed and disturbing villain, she comes up with a villain who will chill your blood- and Mara is definitely her crowning achievement! The last hundred or so pages of Strangers, where Mara truly sets her plans into motion, is a non-stop terrifying roller coaster of action and emotion.
New readers won't feel completely lost since enough background is provided to Kellen's former life and Mara to keep them going, but I think readers will certainly get the most out the characters and their growth by reading the trilogy in order. And I don't think I'm giving away any spoilers when I say I hope I'm not the only one who had the ending of Jaws in the back of their minds when reading the grand finale of Strangers. Followed closely by thinking: I never saw that coming and of course that's what would happen. Readers of suspense thrillers by Jayne Ann Krentz and J.D. Robb, and Christina Dodd's earlier thrillers, will defiantly enjoy the adventures of Strangers She Knows!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Strangers She Knows concludes Christina Dodd's Cape Charade series (Dead Girl Running, What Doesn't Kill Her) in intense style. The trilogy has followed Kellen Adams: Army veteran, hotel manager, and a woman who has had more than her share of hardships, danger, and surprises in life, as she becomes part of a family with Max and Rae while still balancing danger and duty. The first part of Strangers focuses mostly on Kellen getting herself back together both physically and mentally, and the three of them creating memories and bonds that they missed out on as Rae was growing up without Kellen. This includes some humorous father-daughter bonding over repairing (or trying to) a F-100 truck, discovering the story of the previous owners of the island, and wonderful reactions to dynamite in the fridge that are classic Kellen and Max.
Mara Phillips (Dead Girl Running) was supposed to be locked up forever, but in true criminal mastermind fashion, Mara escapes and comes after Kellen and anyone else she believes betrayed her. When Dodd decides to go for a crazed and disturbing villain, she comes up with a villain who will chill your blood- and Mara is definitely her crowning achievement! The last hundred or so pages of Strangers, where Mara truly sets her plans into motion, is a non-stop terrifying roller coaster of action and emotion.
New readers won't feel completely lost since enough background is provided to Kellen's former life and Mara to keep them going, but I think readers will certainly get the most out the characters and their growth by reading the trilogy in order. And I don't think I'm giving away any spoilers when I say I hope I'm not the only one who had the ending of Jaws in the back of their minds when reading the grand finale of Strangers. Followed closely by thinking: I never saw that coming and of course that's what would happen. Readers of suspense thrillers by Jayne Ann Krentz and J.D. Robb, and Christina Dodd's earlier thrillers, will defiantly enjoy the adventures of Strangers She Knows!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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