What do you think?
Rate this book
Madison Cruz Mystery #4
Hit That
Stolen kisses. Stolen heart. A deadly game of stolen paintings. Madison wants answers. But the dead body she just watched drop isn't talking. She's finally learning about Xander's past. But it's tangled like the secrets he keeps. He's trying to protect her by keeping her in the dark. Then someone is murdered. Dead guys make things so complicated! A humorous mystery, laced with romantic comedy. ★★★★★ "I loved this book. I'm still thinking about it a day later and having a hard time moving on to another story." --Kindle Customer
★★★★★ "I stayed up way too long finishing this tonight. Totally worth it." -- KdinSc
★★★★★ "Lucy has a light and entertaining writing style that draws you in and keeps you entertained as you work your way through the twisted trail of reality that is Madison's life. Well written, well edited and well plotted. The Madison Cruz series is a joy to read." -- Doc
★★★★★ "OMG! I was mesmerized with this book. Romance, mystery, drama and excitement. Don't miss this one. The entire series is good but this one is outstanding." -- Kindle Customer
★★★★★ "I didn't figure out who the villain was until Madison figured it out--WOW. I'm looking forward to the next installment!" -- Ginger
★★★★★ "This is a quickly moving novel that made me smile and kept me turning pages just as quickly as possible. Fans of the genre will want to put this at the top of their TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours too." --Lq
★★★★★ "I just found myself hanging on for the ride!" -- Chloegirl
★★★★★ "Yep, Ms. Carol throws us straight into the deep end from the first page! By the end of this book you will have screamed, laughed, cried and been thoroughly entertained." -- Dawn M.
★★★★★ "You'll love this book if you like zany mysteries with a romantic zip. I did!" -- ReaderMom
★★★★★ "Wow--the story jumps right into the action and humor, and keeps it going throughout the entire book." -- Diane Garland
★★★★★ "I stayed up way too long finishing this tonight. Totally worth it." -- KdinSc
★★★★★ "Lucy has a light and entertaining writing style that draws you in and keeps you entertained as you work your way through the twisted trail of reality that is Madison's life. Well written, well edited and well plotted. The Madison Cruz series is a joy to read." -- Doc
★★★★★ "OMG! I was mesmerized with this book. Romance, mystery, drama and excitement. Don't miss this one. The entire series is good but this one is outstanding." -- Kindle Customer
★★★★★ "I didn't figure out who the villain was until Madison figured it out--WOW. I'm looking forward to the next installment!" -- Ginger
★★★★★ "This is a quickly moving novel that made me smile and kept me turning pages just as quickly as possible. Fans of the genre will want to put this at the top of their TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours too." --Lq
★★★★★ "I just found myself hanging on for the ride!" -- Chloegirl
★★★★★ "Yep, Ms. Carol throws us straight into the deep end from the first page! By the end of this book you will have screamed, laughed, cried and been thoroughly entertained." -- Dawn M.
★★★★★ "You'll love this book if you like zany mysteries with a romantic zip. I did!" -- ReaderMom
★★★★★ "Wow--the story jumps right into the action and humor, and keeps it going throughout the entire book." -- Diane Garland
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 15, 2018
About the author
Lucy Carol
22 books48 followersLucy Carol's top priority is to entertain you, and keep you turning pages. She writes mysteries for those who like it fun, fast, and don't mind losing a little sleep. Living and writing in the Pacific Northwest, she loves martinis, flowers, dancing, a good lipstick, and cake. Her background is in the performing arts, having been an actress, voiceover artist, choreographer, and singing telegram.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 5, 2018
Madison Cruz scrambled around the floor of the boardroom in the dark, unable to see anything around her. She dropped the prized item in her tote bag, then worried that she should probably put it back, afraid of getting caught. She started to crawl back, but the dragon sketch was already in her bag so she should probably just get on with it! Still debating, she heard someone coming and hid between two cabinets, not daring to breathe.
A dark mass moved across the room and then the door opened again. She squeezed her eyes closed, and when she opened them again, a dark mass was in front of her – and an angry Xander asking her what she was doing! He smiled at her explanation that she had stolen the painting back that had been stolen from him so that he wouldn’t steal it himself and get in trouble for stealing it. Then she heard voices and they ran out and down the hall to a dressing room. Madison hid her hairbrush so she could pretend that’s why she was still here when she was supposed to have gone home after the modelling session. Xander was her bored boyfriend, urging her to hurry or they would miss the movie they were going to. It was all very convincing! Then Xander saw a photo of the man whose family owned the building, and he realized why his stolen artwork had ended up here! Would he and Madison be able to solve the mystery which had suddenly turned far more dangerous? And what secrets that Xander was keeping be revealed as the two of them deal with art theft and murder?
Loved this book!!! Twists and turns abound! From the first sentence, the suspense ratcheted up and held the reader’s rapt attention as the story line moved at a fast pace! And despite the tension, there was laugh-out-loud humor as Madison debated with herself about whether to steal an item that had been stolen and whether she could escape or have her tote bag searched and be caught. She crawled back and forth repeatedly in the dark, on her hands and knees, as she thought about it one way, changed her mind, and scooted back the other way. I was laughing so hard that I could barely keep reading! The characters are wonderful and likable. This was my favorite, I think. I actually had FUN reading this and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery!
A dark mass moved across the room and then the door opened again. She squeezed her eyes closed, and when she opened them again, a dark mass was in front of her – and an angry Xander asking her what she was doing! He smiled at her explanation that she had stolen the painting back that had been stolen from him so that he wouldn’t steal it himself and get in trouble for stealing it. Then she heard voices and they ran out and down the hall to a dressing room. Madison hid her hairbrush so she could pretend that’s why she was still here when she was supposed to have gone home after the modelling session. Xander was her bored boyfriend, urging her to hurry or they would miss the movie they were going to. It was all very convincing! Then Xander saw a photo of the man whose family owned the building, and he realized why his stolen artwork had ended up here! Would he and Madison be able to solve the mystery which had suddenly turned far more dangerous? And what secrets that Xander was keeping be revealed as the two of them deal with art theft and murder?
Loved this book!!! Twists and turns abound! From the first sentence, the suspense ratcheted up and held the reader’s rapt attention as the story line moved at a fast pace! And despite the tension, there was laugh-out-loud humor as Madison debated with herself about whether to steal an item that had been stolen and whether she could escape or have her tote bag searched and be caught. She crawled back and forth repeatedly in the dark, on her hands and knees, as she thought about it one way, changed her mind, and scooted back the other way. I was laughing so hard that I could barely keep reading! The characters are wonderful and likable. This was my favorite, I think. I actually had FUN reading this and thoroughly enjoyed the mystery!
January 14, 2018
I think everyone should know the Madison Cruz mysteries are not your "regular" cozy or mystery story. It's a more of a day in the life style The MC series is about those freak
In this edition of the Madison Cruz drama series ;) We start off with a bang or at least a very dark room as Madison back together with ExBoy has just finished stealing a Xander original! Yep, Ms Carol throws us strait into the deep end from the first page!!!! An if you think that's something you ain't read nothing yet! She kicks it into high gear and keeps it there as we deal with suspicious foreign nationals, art theft, fake casting calls, oodles of relationship growth and Madison has a starring role in the Drive-by Fashion charity show. Madison is crazy busy trying to juggle everything (and everyone) including meeting more of Xander's family and learning the secrets of Xander's mysterious past.
By the end of this book you will have screamed, laughed, cried and been thoroughly entertained by your emersion into the latest antics of Madison and her crew. Most of whom make at least a token appearance. I recommend everyone pickup two copies one for you & one for that friend who never returns your books! (LOL) 5 *****
Favorite quote: "My very own Madness." said ExBoy
In this edition of the Madison Cruz drama series ;) We start off with a bang or at least a very dark room as Madison back together with ExBoy has just finished stealing a Xander original! Yep, Ms Carol throws us strait into the deep end from the first page!!!! An if you think that's something you ain't read nothing yet! She kicks it into high gear and keeps it there as we deal with suspicious foreign nationals, art theft, fake casting calls, oodles of relationship growth and Madison has a starring role in the Drive-by Fashion charity show. Madison is crazy busy trying to juggle everything (and everyone) including meeting more of Xander's family and learning the secrets of Xander's mysterious past.
By the end of this book you will have screamed, laughed, cried and been thoroughly entertained by your emersion into the latest antics of Madison and her crew. Most of whom make at least a token appearance. I recommend everyone pickup two copies one for you & one for that friend who never returns your books! (LOL) 5 *****
Favorite quote: "My very own Madness." said ExBoy
January 6, 2018
Madison Cruz is an aspiring actress in Seattle. She also has an FBI agent mother, an ex-KGB grandmother, and a boyfriend with a possibly criminal past. And now, she's knee deep in the world of art theft. During a model's meeting for an upcoming fashion show, Madison spies a sketch that she recognizes and, knowing it's stolen, she decides to steal it back, which leads her into a world of secrets. Something is going on between her mother and grandmother, and she doesn't have a clue what it is. Her mother is having her followed, and she doesn't know why. Xander is keeping his shadowy past buried from her, and it's beginning to come between them. A big shot movie producer seems to want her for his movie, but won't tell her anything about the role. Oh, and the body in the parking lot? That's just one more thread in the tangle that Madison has to unravel in the latest book in the Madison Cruz Mysteries.
I really like this series. The stories are clever and well constructed. The mysteries, while perhaps not the most convoluted, are not simple and mindless. The romance is integrated into the stories naturally and isn't explicit. Characters are very well-developed, and are real and relatable. There is an abundance of humor, which is also natural to the characters and story. The action isn't as high-paced as an strict adventure might be, but it moves well and quickly. The author is familiar with the Seattle setting, and it shows in the details included.
These are well-written, easy to read stories that will appeal to fans of strong female characters in realistic settings, mystery fans, romance fans, and anyone who enjoys a fun read.
I really like this series. The stories are clever and well constructed. The mysteries, while perhaps not the most convoluted, are not simple and mindless. The romance is integrated into the stories naturally and isn't explicit. Characters are very well-developed, and are real and relatable. There is an abundance of humor, which is also natural to the characters and story. The action isn't as high-paced as an strict adventure might be, but it moves well and quickly. The author is familiar with the Seattle setting, and it shows in the details included.
These are well-written, easy to read stories that will appeal to fans of strong female characters in realistic settings, mystery fans, romance fans, and anyone who enjoys a fun read.
January 8, 2018
Spoiler Free Review:
This is the long awaited addition to the Madison Cruz Series. The fourth book has Madison eyebrow deep in trouble in a way that is so Madison. She needs to come to terms with the past both with her boyfriend and with her rather unusual family. After all how many people have a grandmother who was a KGB spy and a mother who is an FBI agent. Throw in a boyfriend who apparently is or was an art thief. However in true Madison style nothing is as it seems.
Lucy has a light and entertaining writing style that draws you in and keeps you entertain as you work your way through the twisted trail of reality that is Madison's life. Well written, well edited and well plotted. The Madison Cruz series is a joy to read. My only complaint is that there are not more in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This is the long awaited addition to the Madison Cruz Series. The fourth book has Madison eyebrow deep in trouble in a way that is so Madison. She needs to come to terms with the past both with her boyfriend and with her rather unusual family. After all how many people have a grandmother who was a KGB spy and a mother who is an FBI agent. Throw in a boyfriend who apparently is or was an art thief. However in true Madison style nothing is as it seems.
Lucy has a light and entertaining writing style that draws you in and keeps you entertain as you work your way through the twisted trail of reality that is Madison's life. Well written, well edited and well plotted. The Madison Cruz series is a joy to read. My only complaint is that there are not more in the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
January 1, 2018
Madison is in a meeting for a modeling gig. She notices a signature on a painting and slips out to steal the painting to keep Xander from stealing it himself. Wanting to keep him from going back to prison.
When she is threatened to release the painting, she discovers she has entered the world of fine art, and some people will do anything to get their hands on it. While trying to protect herself and Xander, she discovers some of the secrets that Xander has kept from her for as long as she's known him.
Lucy has continued the story of Madison Cruz with a sense of humor and intrigue, along with many twist that keeps the pages turning. It also has a great surprise ending
When she is threatened to release the painting, she discovers she has entered the world of fine art, and some people will do anything to get their hands on it. While trying to protect herself and Xander, she discovers some of the secrets that Xander has kept from her for as long as she's known him.
Lucy has continued the story of Madison Cruz with a sense of humor and intrigue, along with many twist that keeps the pages turning. It also has a great surprise ending
January 1, 2018
LOVED this book! I love the Madison Cruz series and this is the best book yet. Once more, Madison is thrust into a series of kooky situations that is made worse when she tries to "help" fix them. The author has created characters that made me care and feel invested in their stories. I especially enjoyed the evolution of Madison and Xander's relationship, despite (or maybe because of) Madison trying to learn his secrets.
This is a quickly moving novel that made me smile and kept me turning pages just as quickly as possible. Fans of the genre will want to put this at the the top of their TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours too.
This is a quickly moving novel that made me smile and kept me turning pages just as quickly as possible. Fans of the genre will want to put this at the the top of their TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list and should probably be on yours too.
January 16, 2018
Definitely!
I have been waiting soooo very long for this book, but it was definitely worth the wait! Starving actress, Madison Cruz, is back but this time strutting her stuff on the runway. As the plot becomes more entangled she has to deal stolen paintings, Russian spies, murder, & her FBI Special Agent Mom. Everything changed so quickly, I just found myself hanging on for the ride! Her Warrior Woman was phenomenal & the ending perfect!!!
I have been waiting soooo very long for this book, but it was definitely worth the wait! Starving actress, Madison Cruz, is back but this time strutting her stuff on the runway. As the plot becomes more entangled she has to deal stolen paintings, Russian spies, murder, & her FBI Special Agent Mom. Everything changed so quickly, I just found myself hanging on for the ride! Her Warrior Woman was phenomenal & the ending perfect!!!
January 17, 2018
Wow--the story jumps right into the action and humor and keeps it going throughout the entire book. With an FBI mother, an ex-KBG grandmother and a possible art thief for a boyfriend, who's Madison to believe? I'd love to go into lots of detail, but don't want to spoil the book. Suffice it to say, there's stolen artwork, FBI shadowing, murder, family drama and a modeling job with a surprising finish. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series!
June 20, 2022
"Hit That" is yet another enjoyable installment in the Madison Cruz mystery series. It has been about two years since I read #3, but I recall having been thoroughly entertained as I was with this edition. The story line is well-crafted, unique, and clever; the characters are endearing; the dialogue is believable and witty; and the "criminal" premise held my interest from start to finish. I highly recommend this series for its ingenuity, unpredictability, and sheer fun.
August 31, 2018
Hit this book for an entertaining read!
Once again, Lucy Carol delivers with this fast paced, action packed adventure. I love the combination of mystery, romance and comedy rolled into her books. A great read!
Once again, Lucy Carol delivers with this fast paced, action packed adventure. I love the combination of mystery, romance and comedy rolled into her books. A great read!
August 21, 2023
Another Great Read
Lucy Carol is my new favorite author. She knows how to tell a tale that will leave you breathless in anticipation waiting for the next scene. I can’t get enough of her books!
Lucy Carol is my new favorite author. She knows how to tell a tale that will leave you breathless in anticipation waiting for the next scene. I can’t get enough of her books!
July 13, 2025
Hit That
This was my 4th book in this series... after all the adventures and misdirection... you will say with me: IT'S ABOUT TIME!
To say anything more before you get here will be a spoiler!
This was my 4th book in this series... after all the adventures and misdirection... you will say with me: IT'S ABOUT TIME!
To say anything more before you get here will be a spoiler!
September 6, 2018
this series kind of reminds me of something like gemma halliday and the high heels series. One of those goodness, what is she going to have to deal with next, funny kind of stories.
January 6, 2019
Great book
OMG! I was mesmerized with this book. Romance, mystery, drama and excitement. Don't miss this one. The entire series is good but this one is outstanding.
OMG! I was mesmerized with this book. Romance, mystery, drama and excitement. Don't miss this one. The entire series is good but this one is outstanding.
March 2, 2019
I love this series...
...and I hope the story of Madison & Xander continues. It’s taken quite a while for them to get together and I would love it if their story continues.
...and I hope the story of Madison & Xander continues. It’s taken quite a while for them to get together and I would love it if their story continues.
September 7, 2025
Twists and turns
I couldn't figure it out but love the characters and suspense.Can't wait for next book. Writer really gives you juicy characters to root for.
I couldn't figure it out but love the characters and suspense.Can't wait for next book. Writer really gives you juicy characters to root for.
November 26, 2025
Fun amatuer sleuth mystery
This is a fun, light read! If you enjoy amateur sleuths, a bit of romance, and family drama, this is for you!
This is a fun, light read! If you enjoy amateur sleuths, a bit of romance, and family drama, this is for you!
December 18, 2024
The action in this one kept me on the edge of my seat. Love this series with Madison and her family and friends.
January 27, 2018
Fun series! Can’t get enough of Madison & Xander. Looking forward to the next one!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews