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The Jigsaw Files #4
The Last Straw: A Romantic Suspense Mystery
In the crosshairs of a killer…
PI Charlie Dodge may be down, but he’s most definitely not out. He’s still reeling after a series of earth-shattering events, so when a desperate woman hires Dodge Investigations to find her missing sister, the head-scratcher of a case is exactly the distraction Charlie and his steadfast partner, Wyrick, need. Two days prior, Rachel Dean disappeared without a trace from her locked-from-the-inside Dallas apartment, and every possible trail has gone cold.
Grappling with the fallout of her efforts to dismantle the shadowy organization Universal Theorem, Wyrick throws herself into her investigative work. Charlie knows his partner can handle herself, but when she uncovers a past connection that paints a target on her back, the threat of losing her hits Charlie hard. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do to keep Wyrick safe, but with the clock ticking on a victim they’ve yet to find, it’s only a matter of time before the cold-blooded killer leads them to a deadly end.
The Jigsaw Files
Book 1: The Missing Piece
Book 2: Second Sight
Book 3: Blind Faith
Book 4: The Last Straw
PI Charlie Dodge may be down, but he’s most definitely not out. He’s still reeling after a series of earth-shattering events, so when a desperate woman hires Dodge Investigations to find her missing sister, the head-scratcher of a case is exactly the distraction Charlie and his steadfast partner, Wyrick, need. Two days prior, Rachel Dean disappeared without a trace from her locked-from-the-inside Dallas apartment, and every possible trail has gone cold.
Grappling with the fallout of her efforts to dismantle the shadowy organization Universal Theorem, Wyrick throws herself into her investigative work. Charlie knows his partner can handle herself, but when she uncovers a past connection that paints a target on her back, the threat of losing her hits Charlie hard. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do to keep Wyrick safe, but with the clock ticking on a victim they’ve yet to find, it’s only a matter of time before the cold-blooded killer leads them to a deadly end.
The Jigsaw Files
Book 1: The Missing Piece
Book 2: Second Sight
Book 3: Blind Faith
Book 4: The Last Straw
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 23, 2021
160 people are currently reading
383 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Sala
279 books2,289 followersBiography
Sharon Sala is a Native Oklahoman and still lives within a two hour drive of where she was born.
First published in 1991, she is a New York Times/USA Today, best-selling author with a 135 plus books published in seven different genres, including Romantic suspense, Mystery, Young Adult, Western, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Industry Awards include:
Eight-time RITA finalist. (Romance Industry award)
The Janet Dailey Award.
Five-time Career Achievement winner from RT Magazine.
Five time winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award.
Five time winner of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence.
Heart of Excellence Award.,
Booksellers Best Award.
Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award RITA, presented by RWA.
Centennial Award from RWA for recognition of her 100th published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
February 4, 2022
You know you have read a great series when you devour 3 books consecutively and feeling a massive void when it’s over.
I love Wyrick and Charlie and though this book has a theme I do not like very much (kidnapping and rape), I like how Rachel retaliated and hit back where it hurt the most. I love how strong these women are and how enjoyable the characters and conversations sounds. Though it’s a fiction, I can almost imagine how real the spider senses are. Love a good fiction with psychics and some supernatural elements. Strongly recommend this series!
I love Wyrick and Charlie and though this book has a theme I do not like very much (kidnapping and rape), I like how Rachel retaliated and hit back where it hurt the most. I love how strong these women are and how enjoyable the characters and conversations sounds. Though it’s a fiction, I can almost imagine how real the spider senses are. Love a good fiction with psychics and some supernatural elements. Strongly recommend this series!
September 11, 2021
I am so glad I found this exceptional series. It is just outstanding. Both of the main characters were so intense, unique and memorable. I was mesmerized by them and the way they supported each other through every situation, no matter how mind numbingly challenging or harrowing. I literally could not put these books down and read them back-to-back in just a few days. The missing persons mysteries are unique and fascinating. I LOVED Jade Wyrick. She is a force unto herself. Fierce is tame when describing her character and her abilities. I couldn't wait to see what she was going to do next. And, Charlie Dodge? Sigh. Drool worthy. This book was a great conclusion to an awesome series.
June 25, 2021
Wow! The Last Straw is the fourth and final book in Sharon Sala's Jigsaw Files series. It is also the best. Charlie Dodge and Jade Wyrick have solved many disappearances in the years they've worked together and overcome tragedies, but how will their personal story end? Only one way to find out. Read this book and Sharon Sala's whole excellent series. Highly recommended!
February 28, 2021
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
My Bad. I know better than to pick up a book that in #4 in a series. What was I thinking??? Call it a brain fart while trolling on NetGalley, I guess. Anyway, here I am and let's see if Sharon Sala is a good enough author to engage me in a story that has been ongoing for three books already. If I feel lost, don't blame it on me, I'm just the innocent reader. The plot has a split focus. One part is the ongoing relationship of Charlie and Wyrick, and yes, I definitely feel lost in their storyline, which has been ongoing for the whole series. We also have missing person case for Charlie and Wyrick and that one is a new storyline.
Jade Wyrick is a very interesting character. She appears to be a millionaire, yet works for Charlie as his assistant in the Dodge Investigations. She is an out there personality with her style and personality. She is also psychic and got headlines in the last book for this ability, which has brought the wrath of a group of religious fanatics down on her head. Apparently, live and let live is not in this groups creed and their leader wants her dead because she is an abomination to God.
Charlie Dodge lost his wife to Alzheimer's and he is grieving her loss. But, Hey, he's just a red blooded guy after all and Wyrick is in trouble. It's hard for a guy like Charlie to ignore feelings for a woman he admires and swears to protect. The missing person case is just the diversion he needs to put aside his growing feelings for Wyrick and the danger she is facing.
Rachel Dean is an up and coming ad executive who is on the path to success at a top Dallas, TX advertising agency when she goes missing without a clue. The police are stumped and Rachel's sister turns to the Dodge Investigations. The locked room mystery is just the first of the twists in this case.
My Bad. I know better than to pick up a book that in #4 in a series. What was I thinking??? Call it a brain fart while trolling on NetGalley, I guess. Anyway, here I am and let's see if Sharon Sala is a good enough author to engage me in a story that has been ongoing for three books already. If I feel lost, don't blame it on me, I'm just the innocent reader. The plot has a split focus. One part is the ongoing relationship of Charlie and Wyrick, and yes, I definitely feel lost in their storyline, which has been ongoing for the whole series. We also have missing person case for Charlie and Wyrick and that one is a new storyline.
Jade Wyrick is a very interesting character. She appears to be a millionaire, yet works for Charlie as his assistant in the Dodge Investigations. She is an out there personality with her style and personality. She is also psychic and got headlines in the last book for this ability, which has brought the wrath of a group of religious fanatics down on her head. Apparently, live and let live is not in this groups creed and their leader wants her dead because she is an abomination to God.
Charlie Dodge lost his wife to Alzheimer's and he is grieving her loss. But, Hey, he's just a red blooded guy after all and Wyrick is in trouble. It's hard for a guy like Charlie to ignore feelings for a woman he admires and swears to protect. The missing person case is just the diversion he needs to put aside his growing feelings for Wyrick and the danger she is facing.
Rachel Dean is an up and coming ad executive who is on the path to success at a top Dallas, TX advertising agency when she goes missing without a clue. The police are stumped and Rachel's sister turns to the Dodge Investigations. The locked room mystery is just the first of the twists in this case.
May 3, 2021
I really love this series and I think this is the final book. I really am going to miss getting to know the characters. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. A very hard book to put down.
March 20, 2021
I made the mistake of comparing Jade Wyrick to the h in The Witness after reading The Missing Piece. My bad. Just be sure and, at minimum, read the first story before starting this one. You need to understand both Wyrick’s and Charlie’s background and their relationship.
Jade Wyrick is one tough cookie. Don’t get on her bad side. She has evolved since The Missing Piece and, lo and behold, her boss/partner, Charlie, is looking at her differently, too.
It’s about time.
There were two stories running side by side in The Last Straw. A cultish church that gave new meaning for nut jobs twisting religion and a serial killer who made the mistake of kidnapping a young woman. We all know Wyrick’s and Charlie’s business was searching for missing people and they never give up.
All in all, the suspense was pretty good, but I knew this was the last story in the series. There was the expected HEA but I thought the ending was a bit underwhelming.
Jade Wyrick is one tough cookie. Don’t get on her bad side. She has evolved since The Missing Piece and, lo and behold, her boss/partner, Charlie, is looking at her differently, too.
It’s about time.
There were two stories running side by side in The Last Straw. A cultish church that gave new meaning for nut jobs twisting religion and a serial killer who made the mistake of kidnapping a young woman. We all know Wyrick’s and Charlie’s business was searching for missing people and they never give up.
All in all, the suspense was pretty good, but I knew this was the last story in the series. There was the expected HEA but I thought the ending was a bit underwhelming.
March 17, 2021
Aw now that's the stuff!
This is the final (?) book in the Charlie Dodge series and what a great capper to the whole series this this is.
Up to this point, Charlie has been a PI with a great reputation for finding missing people. He was married and in love with his wife but she had developed early onset Alzheimer's (very tragic is she was pretty young). In the first two books we saw how Charlie tenderly cared for his wife but she finally passed away in the preceding book.
His trusty side-kick and assistant Jade Wyrick is an amazon of a woman. A cancer survivor and the result of a gene manipulation DNA scientific experiment, Jade is a bit of an uber mensch. She is super smart, a hacker, a pilot, an inventor, and has honest to goodness psychic skills (and a little something extra that kicked in in this book which serves as a final plot propeller in this installment). She has been by Charlie's side as his support system, his ride or die, and his secret weapon.
There was never a hint of romance between these two until we got the hint in the last book that Wyrick felt some kind of way for Charlie. And now we find out that Charlie is beginning to notice Wyrick as a woman and not just his assistant.
But even while that bubbles under the surface, the two roommates (they share a big mansion that was willed to Jade) get another case. A true closed door mystery where a woman goes missing but no one had seen her leave her apartment.
The mystery was an interesting one and it gave a nice bit of suspense in a both 'whodunnit' and 'howdunnit' way. He go get the POV of the kidnapper but we don't know their identity until very late, so you guess a little bit about who it could be.
I do take a few points off because Wyrick sometimes acts as a Deus Ex Machina. Her skills are a little too convenient sometimes and can make things a little too easy for them. But the rest of the story and their relationship is so strong it mitigates some of the more 'special' aspects of Wyrick.
I figure this is the last book because there are a lot of nice callbacks to the previous cases and characters from the preceding three books. And the there is a major turning point in the life of Charlie and Wyrick that causes a bit of an upheaval for them. The author pulls the trigger on their romance and ends the books in a rather ... settled place.
Overall I enjoyed the heck out of this entire series and I will most definitely go back and re-listen to them all at some point in the future when they've gotten a little hazy and I need a good comfort listen.
I listened on audio and the narrator was excellent.
This is the final (?) book in the Charlie Dodge series and what a great capper to the whole series this this is.
Up to this point, Charlie has been a PI with a great reputation for finding missing people. He was married and in love with his wife but she had developed early onset Alzheimer's (very tragic is she was pretty young). In the first two books we saw how Charlie tenderly cared for his wife but she finally passed away in the preceding book.
His trusty side-kick and assistant Jade Wyrick is an amazon of a woman. A cancer survivor and the result of a gene manipulation DNA scientific experiment, Jade is a bit of an uber mensch. She is super smart, a hacker, a pilot, an inventor, and has honest to goodness psychic skills (and a little something extra that kicked in in this book which serves as a final plot propeller in this installment). She has been by Charlie's side as his support system, his ride or die, and his secret weapon.
There was never a hint of romance between these two until we got the hint in the last book that Wyrick felt some kind of way for Charlie. And now we find out that Charlie is beginning to notice Wyrick as a woman and not just his assistant.
But even while that bubbles under the surface, the two roommates (they share a big mansion that was willed to Jade) get another case. A true closed door mystery where a woman goes missing but no one had seen her leave her apartment.
The mystery was an interesting one and it gave a nice bit of suspense in a both 'whodunnit' and 'howdunnit' way. He go get the POV of the kidnapper but we don't know their identity until very late, so you guess a little bit about who it could be.
I do take a few points off because Wyrick sometimes acts as a Deus Ex Machina. Her skills are a little too convenient sometimes and can make things a little too easy for them. But the rest of the story and their relationship is so strong it mitigates some of the more 'special' aspects of Wyrick.
I figure this is the last book because there are a lot of nice callbacks to the previous cases and characters from the preceding three books. And the there is a major turning point in the life of Charlie and Wyrick that causes a bit of an upheaval for them. The author pulls the trigger on their romance and ends the books in a rather ... settled place.
Overall I enjoyed the heck out of this entire series and I will most definitely go back and re-listen to them all at some point in the future when they've gotten a little hazy and I need a good comfort listen.
I listened on audio and the narrator was excellent.
April 9, 2021
Well, I suspect this is the end of Wyrick and Charlie’s adventures. I sure will miss them. This one is a huge roller coaster of things happening. Like Wyrick, just when I thought things were okay...Bam!!
September 20, 2021
4.75 / 5 Stars
HOOPLA audio - great narration by Adam Gold
Really have enjoyed listening to all of Sharon Sala's Jigsaw Files books. This book felt like a wrap up to the series, but was left open ended. Would love to see this series continue, however if it ends now Sala did a good job with it. I like Jade and Charlie's characters. Jade is kick-ass with soft spots. Charlie needs to be there for Jade and his feelings towards her are subtle, not in your face. He understands her.
The whole kidnapping, attempted murder plots, and Wyrick's (Jade) way to handle the situation was good. The book kept me engaged.
HOOPLA audio - great narration by Adam Gold
Really have enjoyed listening to all of Sharon Sala's Jigsaw Files books. This book felt like a wrap up to the series, but was left open ended. Would love to see this series continue, however if it ends now Sala did a good job with it. I like Jade and Charlie's characters. Jade is kick-ass with soft spots. Charlie needs to be there for Jade and his feelings towards her are subtle, not in your face. He understands her.
The whole kidnapping, attempted murder plots, and Wyrick's (Jade) way to handle the situation was good. The book kept me engaged.
January 31, 2025
This was one of the better series from Ms. Sala. The focus on the mysteries, Wyrick’s existence and Charlie’s loss was a perfect foil. Their business relationship filled with banter, sarcasm, loyalty and trust grew and flourished and I liked how over the course of the four books we got to see them both take care of each other through losses and trauma. Their “love story” evolved, though I wish another book to see how they’re doing in hiding and solving crime from afar would have been great, especially given Jade’s skills.
August 2, 2024
4.0 stars. The end of an AMAZING series and an author I'm grateful to have found through a reader friend's reviews. This book continues the suspense, action, drama and emotions. I was glad for the happy ending, it just wasn't the ending I really wanted for the two of my favorite characters, Charlie and Wyrick. Although I'm not sure it could've ended any other way. This was one highly addictive series.
May 31, 2021
4.5 - 5 ***
If this is the last book for Charlie and Wyrick, I'm good with the way it turned out. Both Charlie and Jade deserve their happy ending.
Adam Gold was the perfect narrator for the stories.
****** 5/31/21 ******
2nd time listening to the series:
I enjoyed the series very much. Although I noticed a few things listening to one book after another. God, prayer, etc. is mentioned quite a bit. Fine if you're religious, if you're not a Christian or religious this can become tedious. The thing that bugged me the most is that both Charlie and Wyrick are in excellent physical condition. I don't get it. All they do is eat junk food, fast food, restaurants for ribs, burgers, french fries, etc. They seldom eat at home and when they do they get delivery or eat sandwiches and eggs. It's only in the last book that Wyrick makes pancakes. How can these people be so thin and fit on such an atrocious diet? I want to be them. :-)
If this is the last book for Charlie and Wyrick, I'm good with the way it turned out. Both Charlie and Jade deserve their happy ending.
Adam Gold was the perfect narrator for the stories.
****** 5/31/21 ******
2nd time listening to the series:
I enjoyed the series very much. Although I noticed a few things listening to one book after another. God, prayer, etc. is mentioned quite a bit. Fine if you're religious, if you're not a Christian or religious this can become tedious. The thing that bugged me the most is that both Charlie and Wyrick are in excellent physical condition. I don't get it. All they do is eat junk food, fast food, restaurants for ribs, burgers, french fries, etc. They seldom eat at home and when they do they get delivery or eat sandwiches and eggs. It's only in the last book that Wyrick makes pancakes. How can these people be so thin and fit on such an atrocious diet? I want to be them. :-)
October 12, 2021
I think I was at a loss as I had not read any of the previous books in the series. With that said, I highly recommend you read the previous books in the series. I did do a quick reading of the synopsis of the previous books which helped me understand who the characters were and what they were trying to do.
A creepy story that kept my interest. Full of twists and turns that keeps you enthralled.
Mystery thriller about tracking down missing individuals.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
A creepy story that kept my interest. Full of twists and turns that keeps you enthralled.
Mystery thriller about tracking down missing individuals.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 25, 2021
I love this series so much, the interplay between the 2 main characters and the case they solve with unusual methods!
June 29, 2022
If you’ve heard someone say, this is a must read, this four book series has never fit that phrase more than anything else! All four books in this series are wonderful! The suspense level begins in the first book, and continues all the way through the end of book 4. As of now, I don’t know if the author intends to continue the series, but I will definitely be making that request! You will do the same when you read this series. All of the characters are relatable, likable, and addictive! You will love the ones you are meant to love, dislike the ones you are meant to dislike, and you will care about what happens to everyone! You will have tears of sadness, and tears of joy. You will not be able to put it down. I suggest you get all four books and read them as one big book! Jade and Charlie are going to have you enthralled, from the first pages of book one! They will take you on a roller coaster ride of danger, betrayal, murder, kidnapping, and much much more! Most of all, you will get to take part in the relationship between them, and the people they care about! You won’t be lacking for anything in this series!
February 24, 2021
*4.5 stars*
Mystery, romance and that little bit extra…
I started this book party at the very end and I’m kicking myself for not starting a lot earlier. Charlie and Wyrick’s relationship and its progression was a long, winding one and, while the conclusion was satisfying, I know it would have been better with all that came before this read.
Charlie investigated and Wyrick, as his partner, meant they were a force to be reckoned with. They were smart and used every talent, whether tangible or other worldly, to help their cases. This story was suspenseful, intriguing and full of the evil and good that lives in man.
Told with the honest and forthright voice of this author, these characters shined in their ability to keep going no matter what was thrown in their way. I always finish a Sharon Sala with equal parts happiness and a sense of melancholy. After all, life isn’t easy. Thank goodness there is love and stories like this to remind me there is always hope…
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley
Mystery, romance and that little bit extra…
I started this book party at the very end and I’m kicking myself for not starting a lot earlier. Charlie and Wyrick’s relationship and its progression was a long, winding one and, while the conclusion was satisfying, I know it would have been better with all that came before this read.
Charlie investigated and Wyrick, as his partner, meant they were a force to be reckoned with. They were smart and used every talent, whether tangible or other worldly, to help their cases. This story was suspenseful, intriguing and full of the evil and good that lives in man.
Told with the honest and forthright voice of this author, these characters shined in their ability to keep going no matter what was thrown in their way. I always finish a Sharon Sala with equal parts happiness and a sense of melancholy. After all, life isn’t easy. Thank goodness there is love and stories like this to remind me there is always hope…
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley
April 3, 2025
I loved this series so much. Not sure yet how I feel about the ending bc I would liked to have seen things drawn out a bit instead of one final chapter to put it all together. Still, did not want it to end!
Read
February 2, 2021Categories
Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Private Investigators, Suspense
Miniseries
The Jigsaw Files (Book #4)
Romantic Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Private Investigators, Suspense
Miniseries
The Jigsaw Files (Book #4)
February 22, 2021
The Last Straw is the fourth and final book in Sharon Sala’s the Jigsaw Files series. This is a contemporary romantic suspense series which features private investigator Charlie Dodge and his assistant Jade Wyrick.
Dodge Investigations has been hired the investigate the unexplainable disappearance of Rachel Dean from her locked-from-the-inside Dallas apartment. The trail has grown cold and time is running out. Together Charlie and Wyrick work to find Rachel, deal with the consequences of previous devastating events and the new threats to Wyrick’s life. Will all their skills and hard work lead to happily ever after for all involved? Read it to find out!
This was the first book of Sharon Sala’s that I have read, and even though it was the last in the series, Sala’s does such a great job reviewing events from previous books, I was able to follow along and thoroughly enjoy this amazing book. I love Wyrick and Charlie how their relationship has obviously grown and involved throughout the series. I think it can be read as a standalone, but reading it in order will give you a better appreciation for the characters and the series itself.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy fro Netgalley.
Dodge Investigations has been hired the investigate the unexplainable disappearance of Rachel Dean from her locked-from-the-inside Dallas apartment. The trail has grown cold and time is running out. Together Charlie and Wyrick work to find Rachel, deal with the consequences of previous devastating events and the new threats to Wyrick’s life. Will all their skills and hard work lead to happily ever after for all involved? Read it to find out!
This was the first book of Sharon Sala’s that I have read, and even though it was the last in the series, Sala’s does such a great job reviewing events from previous books, I was able to follow along and thoroughly enjoy this amazing book. I love Wyrick and Charlie how their relationship has obviously grown and involved throughout the series. I think it can be read as a standalone, but reading it in order will give you a better appreciation for the characters and the series itself.
This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy fro Netgalley.
August 12, 2021
Omg 😳 they finally got together. Great end to the series.
May 27, 2023
Jade and Charlie find another missing person, another threat on her life and cure a cancer patient. They then go into hiding.
February 26, 2021
Sharon Sala has done it again
What a great end to a series, after reading the first three it was good to see Jade and Charlie finally have their happy ending. Each book was a great read, hard to put down. Well worth the money. Once again Sharon Sala has delivered.
What a great end to a series, after reading the first three it was good to see Jade and Charlie finally have their happy ending. Each book was a great read, hard to put down. Well worth the money. Once again Sharon Sala has delivered.
February 24, 2021
Enthralling
Once I got into it..I could not put it down....Sharon Sala can put her hand to anything...I have read so many books by her and she never disappoints...I would recommend this to anyone...but not for the faint hearted.
Once I got into it..I could not put it down....Sharon Sala can put her hand to anything...I have read so many books by her and she never disappoints...I would recommend this to anyone...but not for the faint hearted.
February 14, 2021
What happened to Rachel Dean? That's the question Charlie and Wyrick have been hired to answer. They are experts at finding missing people but this one- this one is tough because Rachel seems to have gone up in a poof from her apartment which was locked from the inside and she doesn't appear on any CC tv. That's the least of their worries, though, because Universal Theorem, a cult, is after Wyrick. If you haven't read this series, know that Wyrick is one awesome woman- she's smart, she's tough, and she's the person you would want by your side. And that's what Charlie wants. He lost his wife to early onset Alzheimers; his relationship with Wyrick has changed over time as he's healed from that. This melds two plot lines really well - it's a page turner. Sala's a good storyteller who created two really wonderful characters. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. I truly hope this isn't the last of the series.
March 20, 2021
Charlie and Wyrick drew me in again with the 4th book in the Jigsaw Files. I love their interaction and growing relationship. Since Wyrick revealed her past to the world, Charlie’s protectiveness has endeared him even more to me. While an excellent end to the series, I’m going to miss these guys. Ms. Sala really captured these characters and made them people I wanted to know. Fortunately I have a lot of other books from her I can catch up on.
December 3, 2021
Skip read. Nice HEA. Since I am only reading one book of the series .. I am glad it was this one.
Read
February 17, 2021Readers were introduced to Charlie Dodge of Dodge Investigations and his rather enigmatic, genius associate/partner Jade Wyrick in The Missing Piece. We learned that Charlie is a retired Army Ranger and has been struggling with his wife Annie's early-onset Alzheimer's. Wyrick (don't call her Jade), is a multi-millionaire (possibly a billionaire), has invented and patented numerous creations, created a number of popular video games, and owns and operates numerous businesses in addition to assisting Charlie with his private investigation business. Wyrick is also an accomplished pilot and a breast cancer survivor. She opted to forego breast reconstruction after her double mastectomies and sports an intriguing dragon tattoo that covers her chest, a portion of her back, and upper hips. (She is a mixture of Lizbeth Salander from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo on steroids with a bit of Wonder Woman and a heaping dose of Einstein!) Readers also learned that Wyrick was genetically modified by Universal Theorem or UT and although she worked for UT, she was "fired" after she developed cancer because she was seen as defective. Since she survived her bout with cancer against all odds (actually she cured herself), UT has been willing to do anything to get her back. In Blind Faith, book three in this series, we saw Wyrick and Charlie do the seemingly impossible when they find a missing boy in a national park, uncovered the truth behind's the boy's accident, and, in Wyrick's spare time, she released to the public and law enforcement documentation about all of the illegal and unethical practices of UT.
Now, in book four - The Last Straw, Charlie Dodge is now dealing with the death of his wife whilst Wyrick is dealing with the death of her landlord and only other friend, Arthur Merlin. Merlin has left Wyrick his mansion and all of his wealth (not that Wyrick really needed more money, but she'll put it to good use). On the personal front, Charlie moves into Wyrick's home after an attempt is made on her life and she's injured. Now, in addition to being business partners, Wyrick and Charlie have become roommates. Although Wyrick has been adept at keeping people at a great distance by her unusual makeup stylings, flamboyant clothes, and terse manners, Charlie soon learns that she is much softer than even he realized. Charlie becomes Wyrick's protector in addition to her boss/partner now that a new enemy has shown up, a radical cult fronting as a church that wants Wyrick dead. On the business front, Charlie and Wyrick are dealing with a unique locked-door mystery involving a missing woman, Rachel Dean, and trying to deal with a number of assaults against Wyrick's life. Can he protect Wyrick against these new enemies? Will he ever learn that she is in love with him? Will he be able to reciprocate given the depth of affection he felt for his now-deceased wife? Can they solve the locked-door mystery and find the missing woman before it's too late?
The Last Straw is the fourth and final book in "The Jigsaw Files" series by Sharon Sala. To say that there's a lot going on with this story is somewhat of an understatement. First up is the locked-door mystery when the missing woman, Rachel Dean, seemingly vanishes from her locked apartment without a trace. Next, is the religious cult trying to kill Wyrick because their leader has decided she must be evil due to her knowledge, skills, and abilities. If that's not enough, Wyrick is now capable of harnassing her healing energy to heal others as well as herself. When the news of her healing abilities is released, people come out of the woodwork trying to get her to heal their loved ones not caring how this impacts Wyrick's health in the least. Oh, I forget to mention the press conference. Yes, Wyrick holds a press conference with hopes that it will get the cult to back off. They don't, so Wyrick has to teach them a lesson the same way she taught UT a lesson. The Last Straw is filled with plenty of horrors, attempted murder, kidnapping, rape, torture, murders, and more, but it is also filled with hope, second chances, and love. The Last Straw presents a somewhat kinder, gentler Jade Wyrick that is also able to kick-butt, take names, and make people regret they ever heard about her. Although I can't give you specifics on each and everything that occurs in this book, I can tell you that there's a HEA. So for all of you that enjoy romantic suspense and if you've read The Missing Piece, Second Sight, and Blind Faith, then you'll definitely want to grab a copy of The Last Straw to read. If you haven't read any of the previous books in this series, I strongly encourage you to grab them all, read them all, and pre-order your copy of The Last Straw. Seriously, people, this is a #mustreadseries! Although I'm sad to see this series end, I've thoroughly enjoyed reading all of these books and look forward to re-reading them in the near future.
Happy Reading, y'all!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. This review originally posted on 02/16/2021 at https://thebookdivasreads.com/2021/02....
Now, in book four - The Last Straw, Charlie Dodge is now dealing with the death of his wife whilst Wyrick is dealing with the death of her landlord and only other friend, Arthur Merlin. Merlin has left Wyrick his mansion and all of his wealth (not that Wyrick really needed more money, but she'll put it to good use). On the personal front, Charlie moves into Wyrick's home after an attempt is made on her life and she's injured. Now, in addition to being business partners, Wyrick and Charlie have become roommates. Although Wyrick has been adept at keeping people at a great distance by her unusual makeup stylings, flamboyant clothes, and terse manners, Charlie soon learns that she is much softer than even he realized. Charlie becomes Wyrick's protector in addition to her boss/partner now that a new enemy has shown up, a radical cult fronting as a church that wants Wyrick dead. On the business front, Charlie and Wyrick are dealing with a unique locked-door mystery involving a missing woman, Rachel Dean, and trying to deal with a number of assaults against Wyrick's life. Can he protect Wyrick against these new enemies? Will he ever learn that she is in love with him? Will he be able to reciprocate given the depth of affection he felt for his now-deceased wife? Can they solve the locked-door mystery and find the missing woman before it's too late?
The Last Straw is the fourth and final book in "The Jigsaw Files" series by Sharon Sala. To say that there's a lot going on with this story is somewhat of an understatement. First up is the locked-door mystery when the missing woman, Rachel Dean, seemingly vanishes from her locked apartment without a trace. Next, is the religious cult trying to kill Wyrick because their leader has decided she must be evil due to her knowledge, skills, and abilities. If that's not enough, Wyrick is now capable of harnassing her healing energy to heal others as well as herself. When the news of her healing abilities is released, people come out of the woodwork trying to get her to heal their loved ones not caring how this impacts Wyrick's health in the least. Oh, I forget to mention the press conference. Yes, Wyrick holds a press conference with hopes that it will get the cult to back off. They don't, so Wyrick has to teach them a lesson the same way she taught UT a lesson. The Last Straw is filled with plenty of horrors, attempted murder, kidnapping, rape, torture, murders, and more, but it is also filled with hope, second chances, and love. The Last Straw presents a somewhat kinder, gentler Jade Wyrick that is also able to kick-butt, take names, and make people regret they ever heard about her. Although I can't give you specifics on each and everything that occurs in this book, I can tell you that there's a HEA. So for all of you that enjoy romantic suspense and if you've read The Missing Piece, Second Sight, and Blind Faith, then you'll definitely want to grab a copy of The Last Straw to read. If you haven't read any of the previous books in this series, I strongly encourage you to grab them all, read them all, and pre-order your copy of The Last Straw. Seriously, people, this is a #mustreadseries! Although I'm sad to see this series end, I've thoroughly enjoyed reading all of these books and look forward to re-reading them in the near future.
Happy Reading, y'all!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. This review originally posted on 02/16/2021 at https://thebookdivasreads.com/2021/02....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2021
The Last Straw
Sharon Sala
February 23, 2021
In this 4th of The Jigsaw Files series we find PI Charlie Dodge trying to keep his assistant, Jade Wyrick safe from the radical organization, Universal Theorem. In order to get them out of her life she discovers that among those who find her a human born by the devil himself. Many of the group belong to a religious sector called the Church of the Righteous. Charlie was spending time trying to find the leader and those hired to kill Wyrick. Just settling down in the office,they receive a call for hire regarding the disappearance of Rachel Dean.
After returning home to an apartment in the Detter House, an old mansion redeveloped into rental suites for singles and married couples without children. Her sister, Millie Chriss was called by Rachel’s employer hoping that she had heard from her. Surprised and concerned she placed a call to Detter House office requesting that the manager check on her sister. He returned the call after he had phoned police. Rachel was not there however, it was as if she just disappeared. Fearing she had been abducted, Millie put in a call to Charlie Dodge. He is famous for locating missing persons. After visiting her flat, Wyrick was certain that the woman was kidnapped. Wyrick’s inner visions felt the pain and suffering that happened at the time of the attack. She knew time could be running out for Rachel Dean.
I have read several books by Sharon Sala but they have all fallen under the romance genre. This suspense/mystery I found interesting in that Sala’s writing was not comforting as I read previously. This was a good mystery however I should have done a bit of author research before I began . The Last Straw is #4 in the series and I felt like I began viewing a film an hour in. If you are an avid Sala mystery scholar jumping right into this latest adventure will make your day. If not, it might be advisable to read the synopsis of the 3 prior novels in the series to help get your feet wet.
The Last Straw by Sharon Sala will be published by Harlequin Books SA on February 23, 2021. The Last Straw is well written and gripping to read. I appreciate Harlequin allowing me to read and review Sala’s latest suspense feature.
Sharon Sala
February 23, 2021
In this 4th of The Jigsaw Files series we find PI Charlie Dodge trying to keep his assistant, Jade Wyrick safe from the radical organization, Universal Theorem. In order to get them out of her life she discovers that among those who find her a human born by the devil himself. Many of the group belong to a religious sector called the Church of the Righteous. Charlie was spending time trying to find the leader and those hired to kill Wyrick. Just settling down in the office,they receive a call for hire regarding the disappearance of Rachel Dean.
After returning home to an apartment in the Detter House, an old mansion redeveloped into rental suites for singles and married couples without children. Her sister, Millie Chriss was called by Rachel’s employer hoping that she had heard from her. Surprised and concerned she placed a call to Detter House office requesting that the manager check on her sister. He returned the call after he had phoned police. Rachel was not there however, it was as if she just disappeared. Fearing she had been abducted, Millie put in a call to Charlie Dodge. He is famous for locating missing persons. After visiting her flat, Wyrick was certain that the woman was kidnapped. Wyrick’s inner visions felt the pain and suffering that happened at the time of the attack. She knew time could be running out for Rachel Dean.
I have read several books by Sharon Sala but they have all fallen under the romance genre. This suspense/mystery I found interesting in that Sala’s writing was not comforting as I read previously. This was a good mystery however I should have done a bit of author research before I began . The Last Straw is #4 in the series and I felt like I began viewing a film an hour in. If you are an avid Sala mystery scholar jumping right into this latest adventure will make your day. If not, it might be advisable to read the synopsis of the 3 prior novels in the series to help get your feet wet.
The Last Straw by Sharon Sala will be published by Harlequin Books SA on February 23, 2021. The Last Straw is well written and gripping to read. I appreciate Harlequin allowing me to read and review Sala’s latest suspense feature.
March 20, 2021
Charlie Dodge’s life has changed a lot in the last few months. His wife died, almost lost his assistant and is getting burnt out with the justice system. Charlie is living with his assistant as her bodyguard. Jade Wyrick is a genius. Her life is in danger because of disclosing what her captors did to her. Jade’s life is in danger because of her special abilities. When a woman seems to disappear into thin air, its’s up to Charlie and Wyrick to find and save her. Their feelings come into play along with danger and a serial killer just maybe The Last Straw for these two sleuths.
Sharon Sala’s final book in her Jigsaw Files series, The Last Straw will take the reader on a thrill ride as two private detectives try to find a woman who seemed to disappear without a trace. Suspense along with long kept secret feelings and a serial killer combine for the final case for these two. They’ll use their wits and genius to try to find the woman before the worst can happen. Their hands are full of danger and intrigue as Jade and Charlie work together to also take on the people threatening her life because of Wyrick’s special talents. Sharon Sala’s The Last Straw brings a satisfying end to the series even though it’s to soon. The reader isn’t disappointed by the conclusion at least this one wasn’t. I was on the edge reading The Last Straw, wondering who the killer is and what would happen to the victim and Charlie and Wyrick. You meet a woman whose courage and determination just may save her life. A woman who everyone sees as a freak is human just like everyone else and just wants to be left to lead her life. A man who has been living with the stress and grief of a ill and dying wife. Lives will be forever changed and love just come to the least expected. Sharon Sala keeps you coming back for more with her suspense and intriguing series of books about a private detective and his genius assistant. The Last Straw a book you won’t be able to put down, along with The Missing Piece, Second Sight and Blind Faith. The Jigsaw Files series is a must if you’re a lover of suspense this is a great series of books and way to find a wonderful new or favorite author. I look to what Sharon Sala will come up with next.
Sharon Sala’s final book in her Jigsaw Files series, The Last Straw will take the reader on a thrill ride as two private detectives try to find a woman who seemed to disappear without a trace. Suspense along with long kept secret feelings and a serial killer combine for the final case for these two. They’ll use their wits and genius to try to find the woman before the worst can happen. Their hands are full of danger and intrigue as Jade and Charlie work together to also take on the people threatening her life because of Wyrick’s special talents. Sharon Sala’s The Last Straw brings a satisfying end to the series even though it’s to soon. The reader isn’t disappointed by the conclusion at least this one wasn’t. I was on the edge reading The Last Straw, wondering who the killer is and what would happen to the victim and Charlie and Wyrick. You meet a woman whose courage and determination just may save her life. A woman who everyone sees as a freak is human just like everyone else and just wants to be left to lead her life. A man who has been living with the stress and grief of a ill and dying wife. Lives will be forever changed and love just come to the least expected. Sharon Sala keeps you coming back for more with her suspense and intriguing series of books about a private detective and his genius assistant. The Last Straw a book you won’t be able to put down, along with The Missing Piece, Second Sight and Blind Faith. The Jigsaw Files series is a must if you’re a lover of suspense this is a great series of books and way to find a wonderful new or favorite author. I look to what Sharon Sala will come up with next.
July 19, 2021
Rachel Dean has been kidnapped in her apartment but it is as if she has disappeared. There is nothing on the security tape from her building to help to see what happened to her. Her sister hires Charlie Dodge and Wyrick to find her. They start investigating with the help of the Missing persons detective Flynn. Wyrick does some background checks and finds that three other women have disappeared from that Apartment building. Rachel Deans recognizes her abductor when he comes back to rape her. She is too drugged to fight back until he comes back a second time. She scratches him and does damage on his penis. Meanwhile, Wyrick has a hit out on her from a preacher Jeremiah Raver. She stops the first person, who lets her know there are two others after her. She puts out a bounty on who they might be after she sends the FBI information on Raver and his associate who is laundering money and selling weapons illegally. Wyrick gets drugged and taken by Sonny Burch but she is too big for him to carry her down to the basement hidden room. Charlie comes and sees that Wyrick has disappeared and he breaks through the trap door and finds her. They also continue until they find the hidden room where Rachel Dean was being held. She is in really bad shape.
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