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Burning Cove #5
The Lady Has a Past
Beauty and glamour meet deception and revenge in this electrifying novel by New York Times bestselling author Amanda Quick.
Investigative apprentice Lyra Brazier, the newest resident of Burning Cove, is unsettled when her boss suddenly goes on a health retreat at an exclusive spa and disappears without another word. Lyra knows something has happened to Raina Kirk, and she is the only one who can track her down. The health spa is known for its luxurious offerings and prestigious clientele, and the wealthy, socialite background Lyra desperately wanted to leave behind is perfect for this undercover job. The agency brings in a partner and bodyguard for her, but she doesn't get the suave, pistol-packing private eye she expected.
Simon Cage is a mild-mannered antiquarian book dealer with a quiet, academic air, and Lyra can't figure out why he was chosen as her partner. But it soon becomes clear when they arrive at the spa and pose as a Simon has a unique gift that allows him to detect secrets, a skill that is crucial in finding Raina.
The unlikely duo falls down a rabbit hole of twisted rumors and missing socialites, discovering that the health spa is a façade for something far darker than they imagined. With a murderer in their midst, Raina isn't the only one in grave danger—Lyra is next.
Investigative apprentice Lyra Brazier, the newest resident of Burning Cove, is unsettled when her boss suddenly goes on a health retreat at an exclusive spa and disappears without another word. Lyra knows something has happened to Raina Kirk, and she is the only one who can track her down. The health spa is known for its luxurious offerings and prestigious clientele, and the wealthy, socialite background Lyra desperately wanted to leave behind is perfect for this undercover job. The agency brings in a partner and bodyguard for her, but she doesn't get the suave, pistol-packing private eye she expected.
Simon Cage is a mild-mannered antiquarian book dealer with a quiet, academic air, and Lyra can't figure out why he was chosen as her partner. But it soon becomes clear when they arrive at the spa and pose as a Simon has a unique gift that allows him to detect secrets, a skill that is crucial in finding Raina.
The unlikely duo falls down a rabbit hole of twisted rumors and missing socialites, discovering that the health spa is a façade for something far darker than they imagined. With a murderer in their midst, Raina isn't the only one in grave danger—Lyra is next.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 4, 2021
521 people are currently reading
2095 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
87 books5,454 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 537 reviews
May 11, 2023
The Lady Has a Past by Amanda Quick
Burning Cove #5. Historical romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the continuing series that has elements in common, as well as a couple of characters and locations.
Inexperienced investigator Lyra Brazier is teamed up with Simon Cage to find out what happened to her boss. They pose as a married couple at an exclusive hotel and spa where there seems to be a list of missing socialites.
Danger and intrigue and a gut instinct moves this story to the killer.
Hearing about the luxury spa treatments of the time was horrifying for me and I don’t blame the heroine for turning down an overall wax cocoon. Yikes.
Burning Cove #5. Historical romantic suspense. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the continuing series that has elements in common, as well as a couple of characters and locations.
Inexperienced investigator Lyra Brazier is teamed up with Simon Cage to find out what happened to her boss. They pose as a married couple at an exclusive hotel and spa where there seems to be a list of missing socialites.
Danger and intrigue and a gut instinct moves this story to the killer.
Hearing about the luxury spa treatments of the time was horrifying for me and I don’t blame the heroine for turning down an overall wax cocoon. Yikes.
May 5, 2021
After realizing her father will never let her run the family’s shipping business and a failed engagement, Lyra Brazier is trying her hand at private investigation in Burning Cove, California. It quickly becomes apparent that Lyra has a knack for investigating as she has an uncanny way of getting people to talk to her.
Lyra’s thrown into the thick of things when her boss, Raina Kirk, proclaims she must leave town to take care of some personal business. Raina disappears and Lyra knows she must find her. Luther Pell, Raina’s powerful and mysterious gentleman friend, insists on joining in the investigation and sending Simon Cage with Lyra to the fancy spa resort Raina has reportedly ran off to.
Simon has his own special abilities, even though officially he’s an antique book dealer, he secretly works with Luther in his clandestine investigation/solution business. Lyra and Simon pose as newlyweds and check in, noting right away things are not as they seem and Raina’s nowhere to be found.
At first Lyra and Simon knock heads and don’t get along, but they must put aside their differences to get to the bottom of Raina’s disappearance. Gradually, Simon and Lyra form a begrudging respect for each other’s talents and can’t help the irresistible pull of attraction they feel. Dodging danger, and the intense situation they find themselves thrown into mean they have to focus on finding Raina and trying to stay alive, but they do manage to steal away for a few steamy encounters!
There’s an undercurrent of danger and I was worried for both Lyra and Raina! I appreciated that the drama and conflict in the story didn’t come from the relationship woes, but instead the mystery Lyra and Simon are trying to solve. Luther and Raina’s (side characters that have shown up in previous books) relationship features prominently, too.
The Lady Has a Past is set in the town of Burning Cove in the 1930’s, where the rich and famous come to relax and be seen. I’ve enjoyed the beautiful coastal setting and peek into the glamourous past depicted here! Danger, thrills, mystery, and romance combine for an exciting story! It was easy to breeze right through while enjoying this by-gone era. While there are some returning characters, each story in the series can be read as a standalone.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Lyra’s thrown into the thick of things when her boss, Raina Kirk, proclaims she must leave town to take care of some personal business. Raina disappears and Lyra knows she must find her. Luther Pell, Raina’s powerful and mysterious gentleman friend, insists on joining in the investigation and sending Simon Cage with Lyra to the fancy spa resort Raina has reportedly ran off to.
Simon has his own special abilities, even though officially he’s an antique book dealer, he secretly works with Luther in his clandestine investigation/solution business. Lyra and Simon pose as newlyweds and check in, noting right away things are not as they seem and Raina’s nowhere to be found.
At first Lyra and Simon knock heads and don’t get along, but they must put aside their differences to get to the bottom of Raina’s disappearance. Gradually, Simon and Lyra form a begrudging respect for each other’s talents and can’t help the irresistible pull of attraction they feel. Dodging danger, and the intense situation they find themselves thrown into mean they have to focus on finding Raina and trying to stay alive, but they do manage to steal away for a few steamy encounters!
There’s an undercurrent of danger and I was worried for both Lyra and Raina! I appreciated that the drama and conflict in the story didn’t come from the relationship woes, but instead the mystery Lyra and Simon are trying to solve. Luther and Raina’s (side characters that have shown up in previous books) relationship features prominently, too.
The Lady Has a Past is set in the town of Burning Cove in the 1930’s, where the rich and famous come to relax and be seen. I’ve enjoyed the beautiful coastal setting and peek into the glamourous past depicted here! Danger, thrills, mystery, and romance combine for an exciting story! It was easy to breeze right through while enjoying this by-gone era. While there are some returning characters, each story in the series can be read as a standalone.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2022
This is part of a series where mostly only the setting is shared. We actually see a bunch of the leads from previous books (if I just missed that Jake and Adelaide from The Other Lady Vanishes make an appearance, then it would be all of them) in this one, though you don't really need any of their stories to get along in this one. Only that's not entirely true because Raina and Luther are more central in this one (even having significant PoV) and their relationship has a culmination. So I'd recommend reading all of the others first; particularly if you want the full ramp up on Raina and Luther.
The trajectory of these stories has been generally walking towards Quick's world of paranormal and we can see some of the things establishing themselves here that are fully formed in later timelines. That actually grates a bit on me, but I've come to accept it as an aspect of the series. And the stories.
In this one, both Lyra and Simon have some kind of paranormal talent, though Simon's is overt. Indeed, you could be excused from not noticing that Lyra has one of the subtle "persuader" style talents if you think that her getting everyone, absolutely everyone, to open up to her is just personality. It being paranormal is confirmed near the end when we pick up Simon's adopted father and his nutjob device that "supposedly" (but really) detects psychical energy. And I don't know why I'm dwelling on this here, because it wasn't that important to the story, except as a tool they use to find clues they need as investigators.
I liked seeing them work together, bounce off each other, and find meaning neither expected to in being together. It was a little hokey, if I'm being deadly honest, but it's my jam so I didn't care. I even liked how the anti-marriage worked out. Yeah, I'm a total sap.
If there's a detriment to the story, it's how intrusive Luther and Raina were. Like I said above, they take PoV space and their history is the center of the mystery/action plot. If you weren't invested in their relationship from before, this could easily have been a giant "whaaaa?" As it was, I'm glad these two crazy kids got their resolution. Or, at least, as much resolution as they're likely to get.
Anyway, it's a strong plot, though I could do with less of the "psycho being psycho" bit (particularly as PoV). Overall this is 4½ stars that I'm rounding up because, well, I don't have a good reason. Except that I enjoyed it, was fully engaged, and stayed up way to late to finish it last night. Which is good enough, I think.
A note about Steamy: There's a single on-page explicit sex scene, a post-sex with getting dressed vignette, and a psycho being sexually predatory but in a weirdly sterile way, putting this near the middle of my steam tolerance but not actually reaching that far. It was all on par with the rest of the series and exceptionally well-done, particularly in the actual sex scene with a lovely development I hadn't seen coming. So to speak.
The trajectory of these stories has been generally walking towards Quick's world of paranormal and we can see some of the things establishing themselves here that are fully formed in later timelines. That actually grates a bit on me, but I've come to accept it as an aspect of the series. And the stories.
In this one, both Lyra and Simon have some kind of paranormal talent, though Simon's is overt. Indeed, you could be excused from not noticing that Lyra has one of the subtle "persuader" style talents if you think that her getting everyone, absolutely everyone, to open up to her is just personality. It being paranormal is confirmed near the end when we pick up Simon's adopted father and his nutjob device that "supposedly" (but really) detects psychical energy. And I don't know why I'm dwelling on this here, because it wasn't that important to the story, except as a tool they use to find clues they need as investigators.
I liked seeing them work together, bounce off each other, and find meaning neither expected to in being together. It was a little hokey, if I'm being deadly honest, but it's my jam so I didn't care. I even liked how the anti-marriage worked out. Yeah, I'm a total sap.
If there's a detriment to the story, it's how intrusive Luther and Raina were. Like I said above, they take PoV space and their history is the center of the mystery/action plot. If you weren't invested in their relationship from before, this could easily have been a giant "whaaaa?" As it was, I'm glad these two crazy kids got their resolution. Or, at least, as much resolution as they're likely to get.
Anyway, it's a strong plot, though I could do with less of the "psycho being psycho" bit (particularly as PoV). Overall this is 4½ stars that I'm rounding up because, well, I don't have a good reason. Except that I enjoyed it, was fully engaged, and stayed up way to late to finish it last night. Which is good enough, I think.
A note about Steamy: There's a single on-page explicit sex scene, a post-sex with getting dressed vignette, and a psycho being sexually predatory but in a weirdly sterile way, putting this near the middle of my steam tolerance but not actually reaching that far. It was all on par with the rest of the series and exceptionally well-done, particularly in the actual sex scene with a lovely development I hadn't seen coming. So to speak.
October 5, 2021
Another fabulous mystery from Amanda Quicks Burning Cove series!! I love nothing better then a good romantic mystery and ( Jayne Ann krentz) always delivers a great one. In The Lady has a Past their was plenty of intrigue and twists and turns and with villains who were dealing in a abduction and extortion by blackmailing their victims with photos of them in compromised positions. Our hero Simon cage can feel peoples emotions by touching objects so when raina kirk disappears from a spa she was staying at Luther and raina's new partner Lyra Brazier go in search along with Simon to find out what happened to her. Theirs great chemistry between lyra and Simon and a great making of a new romance for both. I love this series and all of the books from this amazing writer! Until next Luv's 💕💋
May 13, 2021
The Lady Has A Past was a delightful edition to the Burning Cove series and quickly pulled me in with its mystery thread and romance between investigator apprentice Lyra Brazier, and antiquarian book dealer, Simon Cage as the two go undercover.
We also finally get answers and the relationship story of Luther Pell and Raina Kirk. I was ecstatic as I have been waiting for more about Raina’s past and hoping for a happily ever after. You’ll have to read it to find out.
When Raina leaves town unexpectedly, Lyra and Luther both suspect something is wrong. They set out to find answers, and it leads them to an exclusive hotel and spa. Luther would be instantly recognized and Lyra is a Jr investigator, so Simon Case, an antiquarian dealer/investigator with unique abilities, offers to pose as Lyra’s new husband. The two check into the honeymoon suite and its soon clear that something nefarious is happening.
I loved fake arrangement, and Simon and Lyra were quite the pair. Lyra has a way of getting people to open up, but has trouble figuring Simon out. It was fun seeing their relationship develop. As an investigative team, the two worked well together and Quick gave us an intense, dark storyline that kept me flipping the pages.
The Lady Has A Past offered so many elements I enjoy with the bonus of getting answers regarding Raina and seeing her romance develop. Burning Cove is the place to be and admit to being envious.
While each story contains its own mystery and romance, the 1930s costal setting, townfolk and linked threads have me recommending you read/listen to this series in the order of its release. While this felt like the ending of the series, I would certainly visit Burning Cove and these characters again. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
We also finally get answers and the relationship story of Luther Pell and Raina Kirk. I was ecstatic as I have been waiting for more about Raina’s past and hoping for a happily ever after. You’ll have to read it to find out.
When Raina leaves town unexpectedly, Lyra and Luther both suspect something is wrong. They set out to find answers, and it leads them to an exclusive hotel and spa. Luther would be instantly recognized and Lyra is a Jr investigator, so Simon Case, an antiquarian dealer/investigator with unique abilities, offers to pose as Lyra’s new husband. The two check into the honeymoon suite and its soon clear that something nefarious is happening.
I loved fake arrangement, and Simon and Lyra were quite the pair. Lyra has a way of getting people to open up, but has trouble figuring Simon out. It was fun seeing their relationship develop. As an investigative team, the two worked well together and Quick gave us an intense, dark storyline that kept me flipping the pages.
The Lady Has A Past offered so many elements I enjoy with the bonus of getting answers regarding Raina and seeing her romance develop. Burning Cove is the place to be and admit to being envious.
While each story contains its own mystery and romance, the 1930s costal setting, townfolk and linked threads have me recommending you read/listen to this series in the order of its release. While this felt like the ending of the series, I would certainly visit Burning Cove and these characters again. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 11, 2021
This was...the poor end of okay, I was pretty disappointed with this installment of the Burning Cove series. I'm throwing it in the written-during-quarantine Books That Disappointed pile, which is growing.
First, I want Raina and Luthor's story after all this time! Way more interesting. Gimme my angsty war vet mob boss and lady with a badass past.
Many reviewers noted the too-modern characters, and I think I agree. They're almost too open-minded for the times, like characters from today transplanted into a 1930s setting. There is open discussion of queer relationships, which I found jarring and requiring a little suspension of disbelief - love me some queer rep but it began to feel shoehorned in. That said, it IS a small town near Hollywood so maybe it's a little more plausible.
The main couple was boring, and while Lyra is a naturally curious, supposedly charming character, Simon mansplained a bit too much for me. The dialogue was cheesy and awkward in this one; the sex scene is cringey. They have a full-on argument with him inside her, I was laughing. Maybe I've been reading too much quality fanfic but the smut wasn't very fulfilling, for having endured the lukewarm mystery plot.
Speaking of, the main plot was wrapped up around 80%, so the book just kind of plodded along after that, dragged out too much. We'll see if this is my last Burning Cove installment.
First, I want Raina and Luthor's story after all this time! Way more interesting. Gimme my angsty war vet mob boss and lady with a badass past.
Many reviewers noted the too-modern characters, and I think I agree. They're almost too open-minded for the times, like characters from today transplanted into a 1930s setting. There is open discussion of queer relationships, which I found jarring and requiring a little suspension of disbelief - love me some queer rep but it began to feel shoehorned in. That said, it IS a small town near Hollywood so maybe it's a little more plausible.
The main couple was boring, and while Lyra is a naturally curious, supposedly charming character, Simon mansplained a bit too much for me. The dialogue was cheesy and awkward in this one; the sex scene is cringey. They have a full-on argument with him inside her, I was laughing. Maybe I've been reading too much quality fanfic but the smut wasn't very fulfilling, for having endured the lukewarm mystery plot.
Speaking of, the main plot was wrapped up around 80%, so the book just kind of plodded along after that, dragged out too much. We'll see if this is my last Burning Cove installment.
December 15, 2022
The Lady Has a Past
4 Stars
Series note: The heroine is the younger sister of the heroine in the previous installment. Nevertheless, there is no connection between the plots, and the book can be read as a standalone.
Newly minted private investigator Lyra Brazier is eager to begin her career. However, she never expected her first case to involve a search for her missing employer, Raina Kirk. As Lyra and her reluctant partner, Simon Cage, follow the clues, they soon realize that there is more to Raina's disappearance at a luxurious spa than meets the eye. Who would want to kidnap Raina and why?
Despite the formulaic elements, such as the reluctant partnership (ala Lake and March) between an independent heroine and a damaged hero with a "unique gift," Quick still manages a surprise or two.
Unlike Vivian and Nick, whose relationship felt forced, Simon and Lyra's are a delight. The opposites-attract romance between the spunky, inquisitive and loquacious Lyra and the quieter, more straight-laced Simon is endearing and their bickering is hilarious at times.
The kidnapping plot takes some time to develop, but Quick cleverly plants a number of red herrings and allows the tension to build. There are several truly intense moments, and the twist at the end is excellent.
Overall, this is definitely one of the best books in the series and I look forward to reading the next one.
4 Stars
Series note: The heroine is the younger sister of the heroine in the previous installment. Nevertheless, there is no connection between the plots, and the book can be read as a standalone.
Newly minted private investigator Lyra Brazier is eager to begin her career. However, she never expected her first case to involve a search for her missing employer, Raina Kirk. As Lyra and her reluctant partner, Simon Cage, follow the clues, they soon realize that there is more to Raina's disappearance at a luxurious spa than meets the eye. Who would want to kidnap Raina and why?
Despite the formulaic elements, such as the reluctant partnership (ala Lake and March) between an independent heroine and a damaged hero with a "unique gift," Quick still manages a surprise or two.
Unlike Vivian and Nick, whose relationship felt forced, Simon and Lyra's are a delight. The opposites-attract romance between the spunky, inquisitive and loquacious Lyra and the quieter, more straight-laced Simon is endearing and their bickering is hilarious at times.
The kidnapping plot takes some time to develop, but Quick cleverly plants a number of red herrings and allows the tension to build. There are several truly intense moments, and the twist at the end is excellent.
Overall, this is definitely one of the best books in the series and I look forward to reading the next one.
June 11, 2021
A solid romantic thriller, set in America in the late 1930s, but I didn't like it as much as the previous books of the Burning Cove series. The characters and plot were OK, but the ending was stretching seemingly indefinitely, long after the story should've ended in a big-bang denouement.
Overall: so-so.
Overall: so-so.
May 10, 2021
Another fun outing from Amanda Quick.
Fun, bubbly heroine Lyra Brazier and enigmatic hero Simon Cage join forces to solve the mysterious disappearance of Lyra's boss, private investigator Raina Kirk. The search leads them to a very upscale resort spa that harbors all sorts of secrets.
I really liked our lead couple; they had some good chemistry together. Quick got to bring in a few of her favorite paranormal touches, with an emotional twist at the end.
I liked the extra background the author gave Raina (a continuing character from earlier books) and the deepening relationship she shares with Luther Pell. Quick also had a deft hand in working in characters from the previous books--she gave them brief cameos that fit the needs of the story.
This book seemed to me to be a series wrap-up. If that is so, I'm satisfied. If, however, the author intends to revisit Burning Cove, I'll be along for the ride.
Fun, bubbly heroine Lyra Brazier and enigmatic hero Simon Cage join forces to solve the mysterious disappearance of Lyra's boss, private investigator Raina Kirk. The search leads them to a very upscale resort spa that harbors all sorts of secrets.
I really liked our lead couple; they had some good chemistry together. Quick got to bring in a few of her favorite paranormal touches, with an emotional twist at the end.
I liked the extra background the author gave Raina (a continuing character from earlier books) and the deepening relationship she shares with Luther Pell. Quick also had a deft hand in working in characters from the previous books--she gave them brief cameos that fit the needs of the story.
This book seemed to me to be a series wrap-up. If that is so, I'm satisfied. If, however, the author intends to revisit Burning Cove, I'll be along for the ride.
May 25, 2021
This is #5 in a series. I read #3 and #4 – did not read #1 or #2. I didn’t much care for #3 or #4.
As far as I can tell #5 can be read as a stand-alone because I don’t remember much about #3 or #4. While some character names are familiar – not much else comes to mind.
This must be the best of the bunch because I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Burning Cove’s Private Investigator Raina Kirk has taken on an apprentice investigator – Lyra Brazier.
The story begins with a murder in the very first pages involving Lyra. Lyra has been on the job for 3 days.
Immediately thereafter Raina unexpectedly and mysteriously takes off for parts unknown and leaves the amateur Lyra in charge of Kirk Investigations. It takes no time at all to figure out that Raina might be in trouble.
With some snazzy smart dialogue the mystery the suspense and the characters are interesting. Everyone has a past and everyone is hell bent on hiding it.
Fun read, fun dialogue, fun people.
BTW: Have to mention the covers of all 5 books are stunning!
As far as I can tell #5 can be read as a stand-alone because I don’t remember much about #3 or #4. While some character names are familiar – not much else comes to mind.
This must be the best of the bunch because I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Burning Cove’s Private Investigator Raina Kirk has taken on an apprentice investigator – Lyra Brazier.
The story begins with a murder in the very first pages involving Lyra. Lyra has been on the job for 3 days.
Immediately thereafter Raina unexpectedly and mysteriously takes off for parts unknown and leaves the amateur Lyra in charge of Kirk Investigations. It takes no time at all to figure out that Raina might be in trouble.
With some snazzy smart dialogue the mystery the suspense and the characters are interesting. Everyone has a past and everyone is hell bent on hiding it.
Fun read, fun dialogue, fun people.
BTW: Have to mention the covers of all 5 books are stunning!
May 27, 2021
After encountering Luther Pell and Raina Kirk from the beginning of the series, I was semi disappointed that they hadn’t gotten their own story yet and seemed to be relegated to fascinating side characters as new characters were introduced. Not that I didn’t love these new stories and characters supremely well. Imagine my excitement when this one introduced a new pair, but the heart of the story was the mystery of Raina’s past and so there were two couples working on the new case and the case was Raina’s disappearance.
The Lady Has a Past is the fifth in a series that can easily be read standalone or even jump in and start out of order though, yes, there is a flowing development of characters and background themes through the series.
So, yes! Raina was already something of a dark horse even though she is a tough lady detective in the middle of things going on around Burning Cove and she is in a relationship of sorts with an even darker horse in night club owner, former spy and associate to the mob, Luther Pell. I’ve enjoyed this pair throughout the series and always wanted more. This story delivers on Raina’s past while Luther continues to be something of an enigma. Perhaps that isn’t a bad thing because I’ll still be eager to seek what comes next for him.
The story begins with the introduction of Lyra Brazier, the sister of the heroine in book four, who has decided to apprentice as a detective under Raina. Lyra is on her first assignment- a soft ball job to deliver news to a client about her husband when she walks in on a domestic- husband is trying to throttle wife in the pool and Lyra has to think quick before becoming his new victim.
But, just after this initiation to detective work, Lyra’s boss, Raina, gets some news that has her rushing out of town and disappearing. Luther is beside himself and that is never good, but he wisely brings in one of his contracted investigators, Simon Cage, who is more than he seems, to partner with the rookie detective, Lyra.
I enjoyed this one because the sparks really fly between the seasoned, skilled, but jaded Simon and the newbie, but highly intuitive Lyra. He has the know-how, but she is willing to learn even if it grates on her to admit it to Simon and she wants to establish that she has something to bring to the team, too. Lyra can get anyone to talk to her and taciturn Simon has more methodical methods of work. They rub each other wrong, but still click and the attraction is crackling between them. Meanwhile, there are glimpses of Raina’s situation and she is certain her past has caught up with her.
The 1930’s glamorous world of the series shifts from Old Hollywood to a hotel and health spa out on the desert that caters to the wealthy and glamorous. The backdrop is there, but takes a backseat to the clandestine goings on at the spa, the investigation, and Simon and Lyra.
The mystery centered around Raina’s disappearance which they can’t just investigate in the open because it might get her hurt so there is a cloak and dagger aspect to the affair. But, like past books in the series, there are some twists and some intense moments mixed with a spicy romance.
All in all, it was another hit. I’ve come to anticipate each installment and find myself relaxing into these historical mysteries blended with an equally strong dose of romance. The author paints a good picture of the time and her characters fit it well. Definitely a series I can recommend to others.
I rec’d an eARC from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
The Lady Has a Past is the fifth in a series that can easily be read standalone or even jump in and start out of order though, yes, there is a flowing development of characters and background themes through the series.
So, yes! Raina was already something of a dark horse even though she is a tough lady detective in the middle of things going on around Burning Cove and she is in a relationship of sorts with an even darker horse in night club owner, former spy and associate to the mob, Luther Pell. I’ve enjoyed this pair throughout the series and always wanted more. This story delivers on Raina’s past while Luther continues to be something of an enigma. Perhaps that isn’t a bad thing because I’ll still be eager to seek what comes next for him.
The story begins with the introduction of Lyra Brazier, the sister of the heroine in book four, who has decided to apprentice as a detective under Raina. Lyra is on her first assignment- a soft ball job to deliver news to a client about her husband when she walks in on a domestic- husband is trying to throttle wife in the pool and Lyra has to think quick before becoming his new victim.
But, just after this initiation to detective work, Lyra’s boss, Raina, gets some news that has her rushing out of town and disappearing. Luther is beside himself and that is never good, but he wisely brings in one of his contracted investigators, Simon Cage, who is more than he seems, to partner with the rookie detective, Lyra.
I enjoyed this one because the sparks really fly between the seasoned, skilled, but jaded Simon and the newbie, but highly intuitive Lyra. He has the know-how, but she is willing to learn even if it grates on her to admit it to Simon and she wants to establish that she has something to bring to the team, too. Lyra can get anyone to talk to her and taciturn Simon has more methodical methods of work. They rub each other wrong, but still click and the attraction is crackling between them. Meanwhile, there are glimpses of Raina’s situation and she is certain her past has caught up with her.
The 1930’s glamorous world of the series shifts from Old Hollywood to a hotel and health spa out on the desert that caters to the wealthy and glamorous. The backdrop is there, but takes a backseat to the clandestine goings on at the spa, the investigation, and Simon and Lyra.
The mystery centered around Raina’s disappearance which they can’t just investigate in the open because it might get her hurt so there is a cloak and dagger aspect to the affair. But, like past books in the series, there are some twists and some intense moments mixed with a spicy romance.
All in all, it was another hit. I’ve come to anticipate each installment and find myself relaxing into these historical mysteries blended with an equally strong dose of romance. The author paints a good picture of the time and her characters fit it well. Definitely a series I can recommend to others.
I rec’d an eARC from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2021
I have liked this series set in the late 1930's in Burning Cove, California and was looking forward to the latest edition. However, while I liked the cover, the setting, the time period, and the characters, the story and plot were not as plausible and appealing. This story focused mainly on the relationship between Simon and Lyra and less on Raina and Luther, who have appeared in past books. I would have preferred that the story centered on Raina and Luther as I wanted their story told and was disappointed that it was not.
Raina Kirk has a solo private investigative agency in Burning Cove and hires Lyra Brazier as her apprentice. Three days on the job, Raina sends Lyra to interview a wealthy woman. Lyra catches the husband trying to murder his wife and in self-defense she hits him with a golf club. Reeling from his death and wondering if being a PI is Lyra’s calling, her boss leaves her in charge of the business and disappears. Raina’s beau, Luther Pell, a club owner with rumors of Mafia ties, is infuriated and worried. He brings in the unobtrusive Simon Cage, an antiquarian book dealer and authenticator who can intuit frauds, forgeries, and emotions in objects. Lyra, who is the daughter of a shipping tycoon, is a natural for her job being smart, curious, observant, and opinionated. People want to talk to her sharing their confidences. Simon and Lyra pursue Raina to a health spa where rumors, disappearances, and violence abound. Raina had told Lyra, “Rule number one is always assume the client is lying or, at the very least, or telling you the whole truth. Everyone has secrets to protect.” What are Raina’s secrets? Read to find out.
Raina Kirk has a solo private investigative agency in Burning Cove and hires Lyra Brazier as her apprentice. Three days on the job, Raina sends Lyra to interview a wealthy woman. Lyra catches the husband trying to murder his wife and in self-defense she hits him with a golf club. Reeling from his death and wondering if being a PI is Lyra’s calling, her boss leaves her in charge of the business and disappears. Raina’s beau, Luther Pell, a club owner with rumors of Mafia ties, is infuriated and worried. He brings in the unobtrusive Simon Cage, an antiquarian book dealer and authenticator who can intuit frauds, forgeries, and emotions in objects. Lyra, who is the daughter of a shipping tycoon, is a natural for her job being smart, curious, observant, and opinionated. People want to talk to her sharing their confidences. Simon and Lyra pursue Raina to a health spa where rumors, disappearances, and violence abound. Raina had told Lyra, “Rule number one is always assume the client is lying or, at the very least, or telling you the whole truth. Everyone has secrets to protect.” What are Raina’s secrets? Read to find out.
May 4, 2021
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
1930s glamour meets deadly secrets in The Lady Has a Past . The world and characters Amanda Quick has created in the Burning Cove series never fails to entertain and this time is no exception. I had a difficult time putting this book down because I liked all four leads so much and I was absorbed in the mystery.
Lyra Brazier has been an apprentice investigator for four whole days when her boss, Raina Kirk, leaves town. Lyra and Raina’s lover, Luther Pell, know Raina must be in danger. Lyra is determined to investigate and Luther knows he’s too close to the case to be objective so he sends Simon Cage with Lyra to the luxury hotel and spa Raina was headed to. Simon is an antiquarian book dealer who is more than what he seems. His closed-off personality clashes with Lyra’s vibrant openness which means, of course, they’re meant to be together. I loved Lyra’s optimism; many mistake it for naïveté but she’s sharp, knows what she wants, and can get people to talk. Simon opens up with her – it helps that she doesn’t blink at his supernatural talents. They make a solid pair of investigators and I enjoyed watching them delve into the mystery of who kidnapped Raina and why. What’s more, I enjoyed their romance. Simon is only looking for a fling when he comes to Burning Cove and Lyra has no intention of getting married. Both find more than they bargained for in each other and it was easy to fall into their romance.
Raina Kirk and Luther Pell have been background characters for most of the Burning Cove series and I have been waiting to learn more about them. The Lady Has a Past delves into the background of the East Coast investigator with secrets and the shadowy businessman with ties to the government and the criminal underworld. I love Riana and Luther together and even if I hadn’t adored Lyra and Simon (which I did) I would be invested in this book because of them. Quick takes our protagonists for a ride in this story and there are multiple layers to the mystery that I won’t spoil. Suffice it to say that I enjoyed every part of The Lady Has a Past and I look forward to revisiting Lyra, Simon, Luther, and Raina again soon.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
1930s glamour meets deadly secrets in The Lady Has a Past . The world and characters Amanda Quick has created in the Burning Cove series never fails to entertain and this time is no exception. I had a difficult time putting this book down because I liked all four leads so much and I was absorbed in the mystery.
Lyra Brazier has been an apprentice investigator for four whole days when her boss, Raina Kirk, leaves town. Lyra and Raina’s lover, Luther Pell, know Raina must be in danger. Lyra is determined to investigate and Luther knows he’s too close to the case to be objective so he sends Simon Cage with Lyra to the luxury hotel and spa Raina was headed to. Simon is an antiquarian book dealer who is more than what he seems. His closed-off personality clashes with Lyra’s vibrant openness which means, of course, they’re meant to be together. I loved Lyra’s optimism; many mistake it for naïveté but she’s sharp, knows what she wants, and can get people to talk. Simon opens up with her – it helps that she doesn’t blink at his supernatural talents. They make a solid pair of investigators and I enjoyed watching them delve into the mystery of who kidnapped Raina and why. What’s more, I enjoyed their romance. Simon is only looking for a fling when he comes to Burning Cove and Lyra has no intention of getting married. Both find more than they bargained for in each other and it was easy to fall into their romance.
Raina Kirk and Luther Pell have been background characters for most of the Burning Cove series and I have been waiting to learn more about them. The Lady Has a Past delves into the background of the East Coast investigator with secrets and the shadowy businessman with ties to the government and the criminal underworld. I love Riana and Luther together and even if I hadn’t adored Lyra and Simon (which I did) I would be invested in this book because of them. Quick takes our protagonists for a ride in this story and there are multiple layers to the mystery that I won’t spoil. Suffice it to say that I enjoyed every part of The Lady Has a Past and I look forward to revisiting Lyra, Simon, Luther, and Raina again soon.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 28, 2021
4.5 stars
I loved this book. I was drawn in from the first chapter.
Lots of suspense, action and an interesting mystery involving Raina's past which has been hinted at in previous books. (It sucks b/c come out once a year & i don't always remember all the details of previous books)
Lyra & Simon have good chemistry but it's a slowly developing romance. And they both have psychic abilities which adds a nice element.
It was an easy read!!!
An interesting change on the usual (not a negative) in that this story was predominantly about the mystery and the romance was a subplot. Also, while Lyra was the main protagonist, Raina & Lucas had more than just a supporting role in the story.
I loved this book. I was drawn in from the first chapter.
Lots of suspense, action and an interesting mystery involving Raina's past which has been hinted at in previous books. (It sucks b/c come out once a year & i don't always remember all the details of previous books)
Lyra & Simon have good chemistry but it's a slowly developing romance. And they both have psychic abilities which adds a nice element.
It was an easy read!!!
An interesting change on the usual (not a negative) in that this story was predominantly about the mystery and the romance was a subplot. Also, while Lyra was the main protagonist, Raina & Lucas had more than just a supporting role in the story.
May 8, 2021
Originally published at Reading Reality
All the ladies in this story have a past. Honestly, all the ladies in every Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz/Jayne Castle story have a past. It makes them all that much more interesting to read about – and just that much more fascinating for the heroes who oh-so-frequently come to rescue them – but generally end up fighting right alongside them.
Raina Kirk, who becomes the focus of the investigation rather than the heroine of this particular story, very definitely has a dark and dangerous past. A past that her lover Luther Pell – hotel and casino owner and occasional government secret agent – thought he knew about.
But when that past reaches out and snatches Raina, Luther discovers that he didn’t know as much as he thought he did. He is, however, smart enough to know that as much as he wants to rush in guns blazing, that he’s a bit too close to the case – and more than a bit too high profile – to investigate Raina’s disappearance without tipping all the cards.
That’s where Simon Cage and Lyra Brazier come in.
Raina’s last known location was a luxurious and exclusive – read that as expensive – deluxe hotel, health spa and over-the-top beauty emporium. All done up in shades – and scents – of the exclusive violet perfume that the beauty products maven Madam Guppy has created as her signature perfume.
But that nearly overpowering smell of violets is covering up something rotten. It’s up to Simon and Lyra to get to the bottom of the stink and rescue Raina – before the poison miasma that surrounds the entire enterprise drags them under.
Escape Rating B+: This is the fifth book in the author’s Burning Cove paranormal historical romantic suspense series. (I dare you to try and say THAT three times fast!)
While it does tie in a bit with the previous books in the series, (which begins with The Girl Who Knew Too Much), and offers plenty of hints that it is somewhere in the recesses of the Arcane Society that the author invented as Quick, continued into the 20th and 21st centuries as Krentz and shipped out to the stars as Castle.
However, those are hints only, providing a smile for the reader if you’re in the know but not spoiling the enjoyment if you don’t. Although the entire collective series is wonderful and would make a great reading binge if you have not already indulged.
This would also be a plausible place to begin in Burning Cove, as Simon and Lyra are new to the place and the series in this volume, while we haven’t ever exactly seen Raina and Luther’s romance and probably won’t see it in full. They are VERY private people with extremely murky pasts.
But this story is about the pasts of all of the “ladies” that it touches upon. The case begins with the unrevealed parts of Raina’s already shady past but the real focus is on Lyra’s past and her present.
It’s between the wars, the Roaring 20s, and a time when young women had a bit more freedom than previous generations – especially wealthy young women such as Lyra. She���s not exactly running away, more like walking away swiftly and deliberately from a purely decorative life that did not suit her – while heading towards a life filled with both purpose and adventure – if she can just figure out exactly what that would be.
And one of the things that I love about anything tied to the Arcane Society, however tangentially as Burning Cove seems to be, is the way that the heroines are either forced to or decide to ignore the restrictions placed on women in every time period – at least so far – and live the lives they choose – damn the torpedoes and full speed ahead – even with the not-so-occasionally forced step back.
Something that this particular story displays in abundance is the way that Lyra insists on taking charge of her own life and her own talents. Simon wants to protect her – increasingly so and in spite of himself – but ends up acknowledging that while she is differently talented she is equally talented. They make good partners – in investigation, in adventure and in romance.
It will take both of them, and both of their talents, to get to the bottom of this messy, misdirected and multi-layered case. It begins with a missing person, but the trail of bodies, living and dead, leads to some very dark places hidden in the shadows of the once – and future – war. Which is perfect, at least story-wise, because it means that there will be more to come in this terrific series!
All the ladies in this story have a past. Honestly, all the ladies in every Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz/Jayne Castle story have a past. It makes them all that much more interesting to read about – and just that much more fascinating for the heroes who oh-so-frequently come to rescue them – but generally end up fighting right alongside them.
Raina Kirk, who becomes the focus of the investigation rather than the heroine of this particular story, very definitely has a dark and dangerous past. A past that her lover Luther Pell – hotel and casino owner and occasional government secret agent – thought he knew about.
But when that past reaches out and snatches Raina, Luther discovers that he didn’t know as much as he thought he did. He is, however, smart enough to know that as much as he wants to rush in guns blazing, that he’s a bit too close to the case – and more than a bit too high profile – to investigate Raina’s disappearance without tipping all the cards.
That’s where Simon Cage and Lyra Brazier come in.
Raina’s last known location was a luxurious and exclusive – read that as expensive – deluxe hotel, health spa and over-the-top beauty emporium. All done up in shades – and scents – of the exclusive violet perfume that the beauty products maven Madam Guppy has created as her signature perfume.
But that nearly overpowering smell of violets is covering up something rotten. It’s up to Simon and Lyra to get to the bottom of the stink and rescue Raina – before the poison miasma that surrounds the entire enterprise drags them under.
Escape Rating B+: This is the fifth book in the author’s Burning Cove paranormal historical romantic suspense series. (I dare you to try and say THAT three times fast!)
While it does tie in a bit with the previous books in the series, (which begins with The Girl Who Knew Too Much), and offers plenty of hints that it is somewhere in the recesses of the Arcane Society that the author invented as Quick, continued into the 20th and 21st centuries as Krentz and shipped out to the stars as Castle.
However, those are hints only, providing a smile for the reader if you’re in the know but not spoiling the enjoyment if you don’t. Although the entire collective series is wonderful and would make a great reading binge if you have not already indulged.
This would also be a plausible place to begin in Burning Cove, as Simon and Lyra are new to the place and the series in this volume, while we haven’t ever exactly seen Raina and Luther’s romance and probably won’t see it in full. They are VERY private people with extremely murky pasts.
But this story is about the pasts of all of the “ladies” that it touches upon. The case begins with the unrevealed parts of Raina’s already shady past but the real focus is on Lyra’s past and her present.
It’s between the wars, the Roaring 20s, and a time when young women had a bit more freedom than previous generations – especially wealthy young women such as Lyra. She���s not exactly running away, more like walking away swiftly and deliberately from a purely decorative life that did not suit her – while heading towards a life filled with both purpose and adventure – if she can just figure out exactly what that would be.
And one of the things that I love about anything tied to the Arcane Society, however tangentially as Burning Cove seems to be, is the way that the heroines are either forced to or decide to ignore the restrictions placed on women in every time period – at least so far – and live the lives they choose – damn the torpedoes and full speed ahead – even with the not-so-occasionally forced step back.
Something that this particular story displays in abundance is the way that Lyra insists on taking charge of her own life and her own talents. Simon wants to protect her – increasingly so and in spite of himself – but ends up acknowledging that while she is differently talented she is equally talented. They make good partners – in investigation, in adventure and in romance.
It will take both of them, and both of their talents, to get to the bottom of this messy, misdirected and multi-layered case. It begins with a missing person, but the trail of bodies, living and dead, leads to some very dark places hidden in the shadows of the once – and future – war. Which is perfect, at least story-wise, because it means that there will be more to come in this terrific series!
May 4, 2021
Actually, all of the ladies in this book have a past-even if the main character is a virgin going in. On Lyra’s third day as an apprentice investigator, she is forced to use a golf club to hit a man who is attacking her, after drawing his attention from his potential victim-his wife. She’s not sure she wants to continue as a PI, but her fate is sealed when her boss, Raina, takes off unexpectedly, and she realizes she has to help Raina’s lover, Luther Pell, find her. Also helping their cause is Simon, who brings a paranormal ability to the investigation.
At first Lyra and Simon rub each other wrong, but their fascination with each other grows. But can they develop a relationship before Raina or Lyra is killed?
While this featured some intrigue, it fell more into a routine book by this author. She can be innovative, but she can also fall into a rut-the smart woman searching for her place in the world, while helping a socially awkward man come to terms with society. But in spite of that, for anyone looking for a 1930s murder mystery, this will be a must read.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
At first Lyra and Simon rub each other wrong, but their fascination with each other grows. But can they develop a relationship before Raina or Lyra is killed?
While this featured some intrigue, it fell more into a routine book by this author. She can be innovative, but she can also fall into a rut-the smart woman searching for her place in the world, while helping a socially awkward man come to terms with society. But in spite of that, for anyone looking for a 1930s murder mystery, this will be a must read.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
May 31, 2021
Finally we get to know more about Raina Kirk and an inside glimpse into Raina's and Luther relationship. A swiftly paced plot that pulled me in from the first chapter, Lyra's "on-the-job" training as a private investigator, suspense, romance, a few deft twists and so few suspects kept me turning the pages. I've enjoyed every book in the Burning Cove series and it was great to see cameo appearances of characters from the previous books in this one.
May 5, 2021
Whenever I read a book in this fabulous series, I always envision on old movie made in the 30's. They always include or incorporate spies, murder, a titillating mystery, clandestine agencies, classic alcoholic beverages of the time (the Pink Lady, Sidecar and, of course, a martini) and a nice little romance. I kept thinking of Nick and Nora Charles' Thin Man series with this particular book, even though our main characters were not married. Flirtatious, snappy dialogue, glamorous gowns and classy suits (a fedora and trench coat even makes a brief appearance), the nightclub scene and an intriguing disappearance with several murders along the way. The reader can easily envision each setting due to the tremendous talent of the author. This was a GREAT addition to the series with its twists and turns throughout. I hope I don't have to wait forever for the next one!
May 30, 2023
Even though I was rooting for Luther and Reina to get their own book, this was more than satisfactory!
There's nothing better than a cozy Amanda Quick read with a deranged psychopath and Old Hollywood secrets.
On to the next one! ❤️
There's nothing better than a cozy Amanda Quick read with a deranged psychopath and Old Hollywood secrets.
On to the next one! ❤️
December 11, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Amanda Quick (actually Jayne Ann Krentz, in general) is one of my favorite authors. And I think that The Lady Has a Past is my favorite Burning Cove book yet! I don't know whether it was the two-for-one romance (Raina/Luther AND Simon/Lyra) or the incredibly exciting mystery or the superb characters and dialogue...heck, maybe it was all of it. The book absolutely nailed it on every level.
Krentz always writes the most relatable heroines who tip into quirky without being over the top about it. Lyra was no exception. I can honestly see how Simon was unable to resist her charm because I fell in love with her from the very first page. She was intelligent, hilarious, and witty. Quite possibly my favorite Krentz heroine in a long, long time.
Simon was awkward, brilliant, and uncomfortable in most social situations. He doesn't know the first thing about handling a woman as out-going and curious as Lyra. And it was the best. There is nothing I love more than a hero who finds himself floundering in the face of such a spectacular heroine and I got that and more from this book.
The bonus romance of Luther and Raina ensured that I didn't spend more than one chapter without being slapped in the face with romantic dialogue or brooding male vowing to rescue his woman or hot make up sessions. Which explains how quickly I devoured this book. Getting to watch Luther and Raina finally define their relationship was worth the long, long time we've spent getting to know them these last five books.
No one does romantic suspense like Krentz, so it was no surprise that between the romantic scenes I found myself totally drawn in by the whodunit mystery. I always try to guess the ending and so far I have never been able to do that with a Jayne Ann Krentz book. The endings are always so incredibly satisfying once everything has been wrapped up.
An amazing read here.
Amanda Quick (actually Jayne Ann Krentz, in general) is one of my favorite authors. And I think that The Lady Has a Past is my favorite Burning Cove book yet! I don't know whether it was the two-for-one romance (Raina/Luther AND Simon/Lyra) or the incredibly exciting mystery or the superb characters and dialogue...heck, maybe it was all of it. The book absolutely nailed it on every level.
Krentz always writes the most relatable heroines who tip into quirky without being over the top about it. Lyra was no exception. I can honestly see how Simon was unable to resist her charm because I fell in love with her from the very first page. She was intelligent, hilarious, and witty. Quite possibly my favorite Krentz heroine in a long, long time.
Simon was awkward, brilliant, and uncomfortable in most social situations. He doesn't know the first thing about handling a woman as out-going and curious as Lyra. And it was the best. There is nothing I love more than a hero who finds himself floundering in the face of such a spectacular heroine and I got that and more from this book.
The bonus romance of Luther and Raina ensured that I didn't spend more than one chapter without being slapped in the face with romantic dialogue or brooding male vowing to rescue his woman or hot make up sessions. Which explains how quickly I devoured this book. Getting to watch Luther and Raina finally define their relationship was worth the long, long time we've spent getting to know them these last five books.
No one does romantic suspense like Krentz, so it was no surprise that between the romantic scenes I found myself totally drawn in by the whodunit mystery. I always try to guess the ending and so far I have never been able to do that with a Jayne Ann Krentz book. The endings are always so incredibly satisfying once everything has been wrapped up.
An amazing read here.
March 30, 2021
In this return to Burning Cove, Lyra Brazier is an apprentice private investigator on her first case. She was sent by Raina Kirk to interview a woman who was afraid of her husband. She walks into the back yard to see him trying to drown her. She stops him with a well-placed three iron but Mrs. Adlington wanted to be sure and clubbed him again while Lyra was going out front to get the police.
Lyra's first day wasn't what she was expecting and the rest of the week wasn't much better. On her second day of work, she learns that Raina has developed an urgent need to leave town to take care of some personal business and Lyra was suddenly in charge of Kirk Investigations.
Meanwhile, Simon Cage runs into trouble while authenticating a rare book using his paranormal talent. When he gets out of there, he decides he needs a vacation complete with a lounge chair, an ice cold martini, and maybe a fast woman looking for a no-strings affair. Since he sometimes works for Luther Pell, he decides Burning Cove is the right spot for his vacation.
Lyra and Simon soon get involved in he investigation to locate Raina and the clues lead them to Labyrinth Springs and Guppy's House of Beauty. Their cover is to be newlyweds on their honeymoon. With Lyra's talent for getting anyone to talk to her and Simon's ability to get impressions from objects, their investigation and problems quickly escalate.
Raina has been kidnapped but not as a usual part of the blackmail scheme centered on the resort. Now someone is cleaning up and leaving a trail of bodies behind. One of them is almost Lyra.
I really liked Lyra who is smart and savvy and just a little lost as she is changing her life goals. She knows she won't be picked by her father to run his shipping business and needs another career. Simon is also great. I liked his secrets and his growing need for Lyra.
The story had a great 1930s setting, lots of great dialog, and a fast-paced and exciting plot.
Lyra's first day wasn't what she was expecting and the rest of the week wasn't much better. On her second day of work, she learns that Raina has developed an urgent need to leave town to take care of some personal business and Lyra was suddenly in charge of Kirk Investigations.
Meanwhile, Simon Cage runs into trouble while authenticating a rare book using his paranormal talent. When he gets out of there, he decides he needs a vacation complete with a lounge chair, an ice cold martini, and maybe a fast woman looking for a no-strings affair. Since he sometimes works for Luther Pell, he decides Burning Cove is the right spot for his vacation.
Lyra and Simon soon get involved in he investigation to locate Raina and the clues lead them to Labyrinth Springs and Guppy's House of Beauty. Their cover is to be newlyweds on their honeymoon. With Lyra's talent for getting anyone to talk to her and Simon's ability to get impressions from objects, their investigation and problems quickly escalate.
Raina has been kidnapped but not as a usual part of the blackmail scheme centered on the resort. Now someone is cleaning up and leaving a trail of bodies behind. One of them is almost Lyra.
I really liked Lyra who is smart and savvy and just a little lost as she is changing her life goals. She knows she won't be picked by her father to run his shipping business and needs another career. Simon is also great. I liked his secrets and his growing need for Lyra.
The story had a great 1930s setting, lots of great dialog, and a fast-paced and exciting plot.
April 25, 2021
This is the fifth in the Burning Cove series and I don’t believe that you need to read all the books in order to follow along, I haven’t. PI Raina Kirk has hired an apprentice, one Lyra Brazier, and she’s had a doozy of a first day. Raina had sent her out for a first meeting with a client, only to have her come back and the client’s ex-husband is now dead. Lyra walked in on the ex-husband drowning his wife, then went after Lyra. Lyra grabbed a golf club and swung. She got the would-be client in the house, then called the police, but when the police arrived, the ex-husband had been hit more than once.
After dealing with that mess, Lyra went into the office the next morning only to find a note from Raina, stating that she was going out of town for the next few days. Knowing something was wrong, she contacts Raina’s friend Luther for assistance. Luther, who has known Raina for a long time, knows that Raina would not leave without a word. He immediately springs into action and uses his key to get into her house. Bringing with him a friend with a special talent who’s visiting Burning Cove on vacation, Luther and Simon both immediately set to work with Lyra to find out why Raina suddenly left. When they realize that she left to go to a brand-new spa, Lyra and Simon decide to go undercover to make sure that she is ok, but once they get there, they discover that she has gone missing, and now they need to find her and make sure that nothing has happened.
This is definitely a non-stop mystery. We’ve got strong females, psychics, and plenty of action to keep you reading until the last page, with a special twist at the end that wraps it all up nicely. There’s great writing, wonderful characters, and an intriguing plot. If you love mysteries, you’ll love this story.
**I was given an ARC of this story from the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
After dealing with that mess, Lyra went into the office the next morning only to find a note from Raina, stating that she was going out of town for the next few days. Knowing something was wrong, she contacts Raina’s friend Luther for assistance. Luther, who has known Raina for a long time, knows that Raina would not leave without a word. He immediately springs into action and uses his key to get into her house. Bringing with him a friend with a special talent who’s visiting Burning Cove on vacation, Luther and Simon both immediately set to work with Lyra to find out why Raina suddenly left. When they realize that she left to go to a brand-new spa, Lyra and Simon decide to go undercover to make sure that she is ok, but once they get there, they discover that she has gone missing, and now they need to find her and make sure that nothing has happened.
This is definitely a non-stop mystery. We’ve got strong females, psychics, and plenty of action to keep you reading until the last page, with a special twist at the end that wraps it all up nicely. There’s great writing, wonderful characters, and an intriguing plot. If you love mysteries, you’ll love this story.
**I was given an ARC of this story from the publisher and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
February 28, 2022
While I didn’t realize that this was the 5th in the Burning Cove series when I requested it, it didn’t really matter that I hadn’t read any of the others in the series. This was fine to read as a standalone and they are just all set in the same town of Burning Cove but there is not overarching plot that connects all of the stories. This was a really fun read and I really loved the characters and the time period which is the 1920/1930 is really interesting. Lyra Brazier, apprentice investigator is unsettled when her boss Raina Kirk leaves her in charge for a week and then disappears. Her last known whereabouts are an exclusive hotel and health spa which caters to the rich and Lyra with her socialite background is perfect to go undercover with Simon as newlyweds who is an associate of Luther Pell her boss’s lover. Oh man this was just so good and the mystery was great and when you think everything is solved think again. Simon and Lyra are such a good team and of course while pretending to be newlyweds they really get into the act. The writing was so great and the characters were so fleshed out and you really knew everyone’s motivation and this was just a great read. I love all her books I’ve read and this was no exception.
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
Thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book in e-book form. All opinions in this review are my own.
July 12, 2021
I'm sounding like a broken record in my reviews of Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz's various series, but her formula for her mystery/romance novels is so predictable that what should have taken a couple of days to read took a week and a half, 'cause I just wasn't very interested.
Quick/Krentz is like Noah and the Ark, careful to pair her male and female characters off, two by two, and concocting immediate romances that result in decisions to marry or become committed couples in the space of a few days. This for people who've been burnt by previous relationships, but whammo, Burning Cove (or whatever West Coast location) lights the match to L O V E.
Once again, I would have liked more period detail in this novel set in 1938. Outside of no mobile phones, cars being called "speedsters," high-waisted slacks for the women, and some Jazz Age cocktails, this had no particular grounding in the '30s.
I keep reading Quick/Krentz in the hope that she'll surprise me, but that's just a hope, not a genuine expectation.
Quick/Krentz is like Noah and the Ark, careful to pair her male and female characters off, two by two, and concocting immediate romances that result in decisions to marry or become committed couples in the space of a few days. This for people who've been burnt by previous relationships, but whammo, Burning Cove (or whatever West Coast location) lights the match to L O V E.
Once again, I would have liked more period detail in this novel set in 1938. Outside of no mobile phones, cars being called "speedsters," high-waisted slacks for the women, and some Jazz Age cocktails, this had no particular grounding in the '30s.
I keep reading Quick/Krentz in the hope that she'll surprise me, but that's just a hope, not a genuine expectation.
February 12, 2021
Another winner for the Burning Cove series for me! I wish I could get more than one book a year from this series. I love the whole old black and white 1930's movie vibes all of the books in this series gives. They're all so retro and fun.
This book kept me on my toes. It was fun, yet suspenseful. It had the traditional love interest thrown in like all the others that kept it even more interesting. I watched the whole book play out in my head as I read it.
I will say that it's weird that I am in love with this series versus the author's other works under Jayne Ann Krenz. For some reason, I can't get into the JAK books, but the Amanda Quick books keep me wanting more. Even though they're written by the same person, they have totally different vibes and writing styles.
If you haven't picked up this series, I highly you suggest going and picking up all of the books and bingeing them from the start!
This book kept me on my toes. It was fun, yet suspenseful. It had the traditional love interest thrown in like all the others that kept it even more interesting. I watched the whole book play out in my head as I read it.
I will say that it's weird that I am in love with this series versus the author's other works under Jayne Ann Krenz. For some reason, I can't get into the JAK books, but the Amanda Quick books keep me wanting more. Even though they're written by the same person, they have totally different vibes and writing styles.
If you haven't picked up this series, I highly you suggest going and picking up all of the books and bingeing them from the start!
May 9, 2021
for me, this was one of the best books in the Burning Cove series. I loved it.... I love my paranormal talents, I love my recurring characters in Burning Cove and I loved this story line.
If you have never read any Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz books, I recommend you start with this one which can be a stand alone - or with Book 1 in the series....
I do have to say that now I am bummed.... I finished.... I have to wait a year to get a new book....
Thank you to Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick....
If you have never read any Amanda Quick/Jayne Ann Krentz books, I recommend you start with this one which can be a stand alone - or with Book 1 in the series....
I do have to say that now I am bummed.... I finished.... I have to wait a year to get a new book....
Thank you to Jayne Ann Krentz/Amanda Quick....
May 4, 2021
The Lady Has A Past by Amanda Quick is the 5th book in her wonderful Burning Cove series. Refresher: This series takes place during the 1930’s in the small town of Burning Cove, California. Some of the recurring characters we have met in the previous books continue to have secondary roles, as we return to Burning Cove. Burning Cove is a small resort town with many Hollywood stars or the very rich, but it seems that is it also a magnet for danger
Lyra Brazier, our heroine, has just started working as an assistant private investigator for Raina Kirk; she is sent on her first case, which turned into a nightmare. When Lyra meets the woman, who requested her to come to her home, she finds the woman being accosted by her husband in the pool. When the mad man runs toward Lyra, she grabs the only thing she sees nearby and hits the man with a golf club. When the police come, it seems someone (the wife) hit the man multiple times to make sure he was dead. So, Lyra in her first case, has no idea if she killed the man or was it the wife.
We meet Simon Cage, our hero, who is on assignment for Luther Pell, and confronts a man who threatens to kill him for a book that is worth a lot of money; Simon manages to stay alive and get the book he needed. After the case is over, Simon decides after visiting Pell, to stay in Burning Cove to take a vacation break. It is at this time, that Raina Kirk (who is Luther Pell’s girlfriend, as well as owner of the detective agency), disappears. Lyra, Luther and Simon try to find clues where Raina has gone, and they learn she was heading to a resort, which has a famous health spa. Simon and Lyra make plans to go to the hotel as newlyweds, to find Raina.
Lyra was a wonderful heroine, who not only was independent, but smart, bubbly personality, very inquisitive and her witty hilarious banter was pure fun, especially with Simon. I loved how quickly Lyra was able to get people to talk, and learned so much from Simon on how to be a real detective; as well as seeing his paranormal ability to sense danger. Simon at first didn’t know how to handle Lyra, but in a short time, he started falling for her. Their romance started to heat up, as each began to learn more about each other, and their chemistry was great.
What follows is an exciting and intriguing story that has many surprises and twists. Lyra and Simon were great together, and when Luther joins them, they begin to learn the truths of what has been happening in the hotel and spa, putting people’s lives in danger. The danger escalates, as the three of them are desperate to find Raina, before someone kills her. I do not want to give spoilers, saying anything more would ruin the book for you.
The Lady Has A Past was a wonderful exciting, intense, enthralling suspenseful story, with a bit of romance, great couple, as well as having a slight paranormal element. Amanda Quick once again gives us a complex mystery that had a bit of everything in this glamorous historical world of 1930’s. I suggest you start this series from the beginning to enjoy the setting of this series, as well as meet some very good characters. However, each book does read very well as a standalone.
Barb
< href="http://thereadingcafe.com">The Reading Cafe
Lyra Brazier, our heroine, has just started working as an assistant private investigator for Raina Kirk; she is sent on her first case, which turned into a nightmare. When Lyra meets the woman, who requested her to come to her home, she finds the woman being accosted by her husband in the pool. When the mad man runs toward Lyra, she grabs the only thing she sees nearby and hits the man with a golf club. When the police come, it seems someone (the wife) hit the man multiple times to make sure he was dead. So, Lyra in her first case, has no idea if she killed the man or was it the wife.
We meet Simon Cage, our hero, who is on assignment for Luther Pell, and confronts a man who threatens to kill him for a book that is worth a lot of money; Simon manages to stay alive and get the book he needed. After the case is over, Simon decides after visiting Pell, to stay in Burning Cove to take a vacation break. It is at this time, that Raina Kirk (who is Luther Pell’s girlfriend, as well as owner of the detective agency), disappears. Lyra, Luther and Simon try to find clues where Raina has gone, and they learn she was heading to a resort, which has a famous health spa. Simon and Lyra make plans to go to the hotel as newlyweds, to find Raina.
Lyra was a wonderful heroine, who not only was independent, but smart, bubbly personality, very inquisitive and her witty hilarious banter was pure fun, especially with Simon. I loved how quickly Lyra was able to get people to talk, and learned so much from Simon on how to be a real detective; as well as seeing his paranormal ability to sense danger. Simon at first didn’t know how to handle Lyra, but in a short time, he started falling for her. Their romance started to heat up, as each began to learn more about each other, and their chemistry was great.
What follows is an exciting and intriguing story that has many surprises and twists. Lyra and Simon were great together, and when Luther joins them, they begin to learn the truths of what has been happening in the hotel and spa, putting people’s lives in danger. The danger escalates, as the three of them are desperate to find Raina, before someone kills her. I do not want to give spoilers, saying anything more would ruin the book for you.
The Lady Has A Past was a wonderful exciting, intense, enthralling suspenseful story, with a bit of romance, great couple, as well as having a slight paranormal element. Amanda Quick once again gives us a complex mystery that had a bit of everything in this glamorous historical world of 1930’s. I suggest you start this series from the beginning to enjoy the setting of this series, as well as meet some very good characters. However, each book does read very well as a standalone.
Barb
< href="http://thereadingcafe.com">The Reading Cafe
May 18, 2021
I loved this historical, cozy mystery! I do believe it was my favorite of the series. The Lady Has a Past has a clear, nuanced, interesting mystery, and a reemergence of some of my favorite characters from past books in this series. We get a fleshed out version of Raina’s backstory, which was alluded to previously, but never expanded upon. We get elements of cultural expectations through the characters’ narratives. There is a sweet romance and even some thought-provoking family dynamics addressed in this story. We also get to enjoy the 1930’s semi-fictional California coastal setting with its assortment of charismatic and even notorious characters.
I really enjoyed the two main characters in this story: their personalities, interactions with others, and their special abilities. The plot as a whole had a bit of everything. It easy to read and get caught up in and was a thoroughly entertaining, feel-good story.
I really enjoyed the two main characters in this story: their personalities, interactions with others, and their special abilities. The plot as a whole had a bit of everything. It easy to read and get caught up in and was a thoroughly entertaining, feel-good story.
May 20, 2021
I. Love. AQ. I love her Burning Cove series. I love Lyra, who is so smart and so self assured and so intent on finding her own path. She is such a wonderful character who really came alive. And considering I talk to everyone and their mother, I felt a real connection to her! I really liked Simon too, who is hurt and jaded and but intent on protecting Lyra. And I love that he is an antiquated book dealer (in addition to other things)! I love when books show up in books!! Overall this was fascinating and suspenseful and a wonderful addition to the series!!
May 12, 2021
Jayne Ann Krentz did it again, she gave us dynamic characters who make us fall in love while they are busy solving a mystery. This has been one of her best series.
Lyra Brazier is a modern woman with a strong determined attitude softened by her tendency to care about others and truly listen. People talk to her, a lot. When her plans for the future get derailed by a cheating fiance and a father who can't see that the right man for the job is his own daughter, she takes off to Burning Cove to start again.
Her first assignment on her new job doesn't end well and the next day, her boss goes missing.
The mild-mannered book dealer, Simon Cage finds more than he bargained for when he partners with Lyra to find her missing boss. He was hoping for drinks by the pool and a fast woman, be careful what you ask for.
The spa where they pose as honeymooners turns deadly when they ask the right questions to the wrong people. Will they get Raina killed before they can find and rescue her? Will she rescue herself. Who is going to rescue Simon from the lady with a past?
This was such a fun read. I tried not to give away any spoilers but it was so good, I read it twice.
Lyra Brazier is a modern woman with a strong determined attitude softened by her tendency to care about others and truly listen. People talk to her, a lot. When her plans for the future get derailed by a cheating fiance and a father who can't see that the right man for the job is his own daughter, she takes off to Burning Cove to start again.
Her first assignment on her new job doesn't end well and the next day, her boss goes missing.
The mild-mannered book dealer, Simon Cage finds more than he bargained for when he partners with Lyra to find her missing boss. He was hoping for drinks by the pool and a fast woman, be careful what you ask for.
The spa where they pose as honeymooners turns deadly when they ask the right questions to the wrong people. Will they get Raina killed before they can find and rescue her? Will she rescue herself. Who is going to rescue Simon from the lady with a past?
This was such a fun read. I tried not to give away any spoilers but it was so good, I read it twice.
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