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Angela Richman, Death Investigator #4
Death Grip
Every town has its secrets. Some are too deadly to stay hidden.
Chouteau County's super-rich know how to cover up a scandal, but when it comes to murder, they'd better watch their backs . . . Death investigator Angela Richman is determined to see a killer brought to justice in this sharply written and darkly entertaining mystery set in Missouri, perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner and J.A. Jance.
Angela Richman, Chouteau County death investigator, finds herself deep in the Missouri woods on a perfect spring day. But there is nothing idyllic about her grim walk - a body has been discovered in a muddy creek, and Detective Jace Budewitz wants Angela on the scene.
Terri Gibbons, the popular Forest High track star who went missing eight months ago, has been found strangled. Could a message found in Terri's shoe hold the key to catching her killer? Chouteau Forest is a town of privilege and secrets, where everyone has something to hide . . . Can Angela overcome the many obstacles in her way to see justice served when the Forest's wealthy residents will go to any lengths to prevent the truth being revealed?
Chouteau County's super-rich know how to cover up a scandal, but when it comes to murder, they'd better watch their backs . . . Death investigator Angela Richman is determined to see a killer brought to justice in this sharply written and darkly entertaining mystery set in Missouri, perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner and J.A. Jance.
Angela Richman, Chouteau County death investigator, finds herself deep in the Missouri woods on a perfect spring day. But there is nothing idyllic about her grim walk - a body has been discovered in a muddy creek, and Detective Jace Budewitz wants Angela on the scene.
Terri Gibbons, the popular Forest High track star who went missing eight months ago, has been found strangled. Could a message found in Terri's shoe hold the key to catching her killer? Chouteau Forest is a town of privilege and secrets, where everyone has something to hide . . . Can Angela overcome the many obstacles in her way to see justice served when the Forest's wealthy residents will go to any lengths to prevent the truth being revealed?
208 pages, Hardcover
First published February 1, 2021
7 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Viets
84 books570 followersAs a young girl, Elaine Viets was taught the virtues of South St. Louis: the importance of hard work, housecleaning, and paying cash. She managed to forget almost everything she learned, which is why she turned to mystery writing.
Living in South Florida has not improved her character. But it has given her the bestselling Dead-End Job series. Like her amateur detective, Helen Hawthorne, Elaine actually works those rotten jobs. Perhaps her early training has given her a lifelong fascination with jobs. She and Helen both know working for a living can be murder.
To research her novels, Elaine has been everything from a salesclerk to a survey taker. Her first book in the series is SHOP TILL YOU DROP, a novel of sex, murder and plastic surgery. It's set at a fashionable dress shop that caters to kept women. Book two, MURDER BETWEEN THE COVERS, takes place at a bookstore. Elaine worked at a Barnes & Noble in Hollywood, Florida, for a year.
For the third, DYING TO CALL YOU, Helen works as a telemarketer. Elaine sold septic tank cleaner and did telephone surveys. She actually asked women if they shaved their armpits. In the fourth Dead-End Job mystery, JUST MURDERED, Elaine and Helen explore big-money matrimony for better or worse. Elaine did her research in Zola Keller’s posh bridal salon in Fort Lauderdale.
For the fifth novel, Elaine and Helen go to the dogs. MURDER UNLEASHED is set at a high-end dog boutique, where people spend two hundred dollars for canine cuisine, women sneak illegal pets into condos using high-priced designer purses, and the dogs at the store have bigger wardrobes than the salesclerks. MURDER UNLEASHED is Elaine's first hardcover mystery. Publishers Weekly calls it “wry social commentary.”
Although Elaine lives in Fort Lauderdale, her heart – and her viewpoint – remain in the Midwest. Like Helen Hawthorne, another transplanted St. Louisan, she observes the outrageously rich Florida culture (and lack thereof) with wide-eyed fascination.
Elaine’s second series takes her back to work in St. Louis. It features Josie Marcus, a mystery shopper and single mom. The debut novel, DYING IN STYLE, tied with Stephen King on the bestseller list for the Independent Mystery Booksellers Association.
Elaine won both the Agatha and the Anthony Awards for her short story, "Wedding Knife," in CHESAPEAKE CRIMES.
Some honors don’t come with plaques and award banquets. Elaine was thrilled when her short story, "After the Fall," was featured on the same cover of the Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine as the master, Ed Hoch.
Her short story, "Red Meat," is in BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS, the Mystery Writers of America anthology edited by Lawrence Block. "Blonde Moment" is in the MWA anthology, SHOW BUSINESS IS MURDER, edited by Stuart Kaminsky. "Sex and Bingo" is featured in the HIGH STAKES gambling anthology. And if you've ever wondered about the early life of purple-loving landlady Margery Flax, read "Killer Blonde" in DROP-DEAD BLONDE.
Elaine has served on the national boards of the Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. She lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with her husband, actor Don Crinklaw, where they collect speeding tickets.
Please buy her novels so she can pay her MasterCard.
Series:
* Dead-End Job Mystery
* Josie Marcus, Mystery Shopper
* Francesca Vierling Mystery
Living in South Florida has not improved her character. But it has given her the bestselling Dead-End Job series. Like her amateur detective, Helen Hawthorne, Elaine actually works those rotten jobs. Perhaps her early training has given her a lifelong fascination with jobs. She and Helen both know working for a living can be murder.
To research her novels, Elaine has been everything from a salesclerk to a survey taker. Her first book in the series is SHOP TILL YOU DROP, a novel of sex, murder and plastic surgery. It's set at a fashionable dress shop that caters to kept women. Book two, MURDER BETWEEN THE COVERS, takes place at a bookstore. Elaine worked at a Barnes & Noble in Hollywood, Florida, for a year.
For the third, DYING TO CALL YOU, Helen works as a telemarketer. Elaine sold septic tank cleaner and did telephone surveys. She actually asked women if they shaved their armpits. In the fourth Dead-End Job mystery, JUST MURDERED, Elaine and Helen explore big-money matrimony for better or worse. Elaine did her research in Zola Keller’s posh bridal salon in Fort Lauderdale.
For the fifth novel, Elaine and Helen go to the dogs. MURDER UNLEASHED is set at a high-end dog boutique, where people spend two hundred dollars for canine cuisine, women sneak illegal pets into condos using high-priced designer purses, and the dogs at the store have bigger wardrobes than the salesclerks. MURDER UNLEASHED is Elaine's first hardcover mystery. Publishers Weekly calls it “wry social commentary.”
Although Elaine lives in Fort Lauderdale, her heart – and her viewpoint – remain in the Midwest. Like Helen Hawthorne, another transplanted St. Louisan, she observes the outrageously rich Florida culture (and lack thereof) with wide-eyed fascination.
Elaine’s second series takes her back to work in St. Louis. It features Josie Marcus, a mystery shopper and single mom. The debut novel, DYING IN STYLE, tied with Stephen King on the bestseller list for the Independent Mystery Booksellers Association.
Elaine won both the Agatha and the Anthony Awards for her short story, "Wedding Knife," in CHESAPEAKE CRIMES.
Some honors don’t come with plaques and award banquets. Elaine was thrilled when her short story, "After the Fall," was featured on the same cover of the Alfred Hitchcock Mystery Magazine as the master, Ed Hoch.
Her short story, "Red Meat," is in BLOOD ON THEIR HANDS, the Mystery Writers of America anthology edited by Lawrence Block. "Blonde Moment" is in the MWA anthology, SHOW BUSINESS IS MURDER, edited by Stuart Kaminsky. "Sex and Bingo" is featured in the HIGH STAKES gambling anthology. And if you've ever wondered about the early life of purple-loving landlady Margery Flax, read "Killer Blonde" in DROP-DEAD BLONDE.
Elaine has served on the national boards of the Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. She lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with her husband, actor Don Crinklaw, where they collect speeding tickets.
Please buy her novels so she can pay her MasterCard.
Series:
* Dead-End Job Mystery
* Josie Marcus, Mystery Shopper
* Francesca Vierling Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 10, 2021
Death Investigator Angela Richman has been called by Detective Jace Budewitz to the scene of a grizzly supposed murder. A young woman's body has been found and Angela is sure it is Terri Gibbons, girl who went missing 8 months ago. She's been strangled to death.
What the medical examiner finds is astonishing. In Terri's shoe is a note written on the back of a gum wrapper ... and it holds the key to solving this case. But Angela and Jace have many obstacles to overcome.
The suspected killer is wealthy, one of the most powerful men in the area. Angela is warned off by her superior. Jace is threatened with losing his job if he doesn't walk away by his boss.
Terri Gibbons is not the only body found after disappearing ... is there a serial killer at work?
It's a town of privilege and secrets, where everyone has something to hide . . . Can Angela and Jace see justice served when the Forest's wealthy residents will go to any lengths to prevent the truth being revealed?
The 3 stages of a Death Investigation are Examination, Correlation, and Interpretation... and Angela is as smart and efficient as they come. She and Jace make a great investigating pair and both are willing to do what it takes to find justice for the victim and closure for the family. Well-written, there are some twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion. Although this is 4th in the series, it is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend starting at the beginning to catch all those little nuggets that make this a compelling series.
Many thanks to the author / Severn House / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction/mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
What the medical examiner finds is astonishing. In Terri's shoe is a note written on the back of a gum wrapper ... and it holds the key to solving this case. But Angela and Jace have many obstacles to overcome.
The suspected killer is wealthy, one of the most powerful men in the area. Angela is warned off by her superior. Jace is threatened with losing his job if he doesn't walk away by his boss.
Terri Gibbons is not the only body found after disappearing ... is there a serial killer at work?
It's a town of privilege and secrets, where everyone has something to hide . . . Can Angela and Jace see justice served when the Forest's wealthy residents will go to any lengths to prevent the truth being revealed?
The 3 stages of a Death Investigation are Examination, Correlation, and Interpretation... and Angela is as smart and efficient as they come. She and Jace make a great investigating pair and both are willing to do what it takes to find justice for the victim and closure for the family. Well-written, there are some twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion. Although this is 4th in the series, it is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend starting at the beginning to catch all those little nuggets that make this a compelling series.
Many thanks to the author / Severn House / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction/mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
March 9, 2021
Death Grip by Elaine Viets is an intriguing mystery. This fourth entry in the Angela Richmond, Death Investigator series can be read as a standalone.
Death Investigator Angela Richmond records evidence at local death scenes. She is meticulous as she records her findings when Choteau County’s residents pass away. When the body of a young woman is discovered, Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz are almost certain the victim is missing jogger Terri Gibbons. Two more skeletonized remains are also found at the scene.
The supposition that the killer is most likely a local is confirmed when Angela finds a piece of evidence in which Terri names her killer. The accused is a wealthy resident who is considered one of the town’s most eligible bachelors. With the wealthy towns people able to make their troubles easily go away, will Angela and Jace find the evidence they need to ensure his arrest and conviction?
Angela is a widow who is still mourning the sudden death of her husband two years earlier. She is trying to decide whether or not she is ready to date Officer Chris Ferretti. He makes no effort to hide his interest in going out with her. Angela blows a little hot and cold with him while she attempts to sift through her confusing emotions.
Angela is not an investigator but she cannot resist providing assistance when asked. Even after both she and Jace are warned to stay away from their suspect, they continue attempting to build their case. In between recording evidence at other death scenes around town, Angela tries to figure out a way to gather enough evidence to arrest their suspect. Both she and Jace take full advantage when someone else connected to the possible perpetrator turns up missing. Will Angela and Jace find the missing woman before it is too late?
Death Grip is an engrossing mystery with a unique premise. Angela is a realistically drawn character whose struggles both on and off the job ring true. The secondary cast of characters is also well-rounded and mostly likeable. Although the killer’s identity is known, there is still plenty of suspense since Jace and Angela have track down a viable lead that will result in an arrest. Elaine Viets brings this gripping mystery to an action-packed conclusion. I greatly enjoyed and highly recommend this latest installment in the Angela Richmond, Death Investigator series.
Death Investigator Angela Richmond records evidence at local death scenes. She is meticulous as she records her findings when Choteau County’s residents pass away. When the body of a young woman is discovered, Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz are almost certain the victim is missing jogger Terri Gibbons. Two more skeletonized remains are also found at the scene.
The supposition that the killer is most likely a local is confirmed when Angela finds a piece of evidence in which Terri names her killer. The accused is a wealthy resident who is considered one of the town’s most eligible bachelors. With the wealthy towns people able to make their troubles easily go away, will Angela and Jace find the evidence they need to ensure his arrest and conviction?
Angela is a widow who is still mourning the sudden death of her husband two years earlier. She is trying to decide whether or not she is ready to date Officer Chris Ferretti. He makes no effort to hide his interest in going out with her. Angela blows a little hot and cold with him while she attempts to sift through her confusing emotions.
Angela is not an investigator but she cannot resist providing assistance when asked. Even after both she and Jace are warned to stay away from their suspect, they continue attempting to build their case. In between recording evidence at other death scenes around town, Angela tries to figure out a way to gather enough evidence to arrest their suspect. Both she and Jace take full advantage when someone else connected to the possible perpetrator turns up missing. Will Angela and Jace find the missing woman before it is too late?
Death Grip is an engrossing mystery with a unique premise. Angela is a realistically drawn character whose struggles both on and off the job ring true. The secondary cast of characters is also well-rounded and mostly likeable. Although the killer’s identity is known, there is still plenty of suspense since Jace and Angela have track down a viable lead that will result in an arrest. Elaine Viets brings this gripping mystery to an action-packed conclusion. I greatly enjoyed and highly recommend this latest installment in the Angela Richmond, Death Investigator series.
November 15, 2020
208 pages
4 stars
What I liked about this book was a glance into the day-to-day cases in which death investigator Angela Richman became involved. She was faced with a wide variety of cases, from buries bodies to car accidents. (The bit with Melissa in the auto accident was absolutely priceless! It had me chuckling for several minutes.) She works with police officers, some likable and some aren't so nice.
The book was well written and plotted. The characters were well presented. I liked Angela and Jace. I didn't care much for Angela's friend the pathologist Katie. She was pushy and too bossy for me. Let up, for crying out loud!
We follow Angela through her journeys and become involved in her investigations. Along the way, the reader meets interesting people. Her partner for her adventures, for the most part, is Detective Jace Budewitz.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
4 stars
What I liked about this book was a glance into the day-to-day cases in which death investigator Angela Richman became involved. She was faced with a wide variety of cases, from buries bodies to car accidents. (The bit with Melissa in the auto accident was absolutely priceless! It had me chuckling for several minutes.) She works with police officers, some likable and some aren't so nice.
The book was well written and plotted. The characters were well presented. I liked Angela and Jace. I didn't care much for Angela's friend the pathologist Katie. She was pushy and too bossy for me. Let up, for crying out loud!
We follow Angela through her journeys and become involved in her investigations. Along the way, the reader meets interesting people. Her partner for her adventures, for the most part, is Detective Jace Budewitz.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this great book for me to read, enjoy and review.
October 21, 2021
I so miss Ms.Viets Dead End Job and Shop Till You Drop series. I am glad that she is still writing and do like this series. It's a well plotted suspense read and look forward to the next in the series. Have to say loved on page 174 " a runaway from Keokuk Iowa". My hometown.
December 28, 2020
This is the fourth title in the Angela Richman, Death Investigator series by Elaine Viets, but it's the first one I've read. Dropping into the middle of a series can be hard, but I enjoyed this story from the first page. Angela Richman is a likeable, fully realized human being, and it's easy to relate to her problems, both professional and personal. She's a widow and works for Chouteau County, Missouri, a fictional place not far from my home. I definitely plan to find and read the first three titles of this engrossing mystery series.
February 22, 2021
Elaine Viets writes a couple different cozy series, but Death Grip is part of a grittier series with detailed descriptions of the injuries sustained by the victims. The main character is Angela Richman, a death investigator for the medical examiner's office in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. Angela works on a few different cases in this book, but in the main case, a wealthy, powerful man is suspected of murder. However, Angela and the detective working on the case must tread lightly during the investigation because of the suspect's connections. Briggs Bellerive seems to be connected to the death of a high school track star as well as committing numerous other acts of violence against women. Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz are convinced Bellerive is guilty, but their jobs could be on the line if they keep trying to prove it.
I really liked this book and I enjoy this entire series, too. Angela is a devoted employee who wants to do the best job she can, getting justice for the victims. She is also a widow who in theory wants to move on with her life, but isn’t sure she’s actually ready to date. Her best friend thinks Police Officer Chris Ferretti is perfect for Angela and there is a mutual attraction, but Angela holds back. There are some very serious themes and scenes in this book. However, Viets does a great job of lightening things up with some humorous moments. Angela’s friend Katie who is Assistant Medical Examiner gives her a crash course in what to do in a dive bar and it’s hilarious. The book takes place in a fictional county just outside St. Louis, but it’s true to real places in that area. I love how well Angela and Jace work together and their dedication to their jobs no matter the risks to themselves and look forward to future books. Fans of Patricia Cornwell or Kathy Reichs will enjoy the book and the whole series.
Thank you to NetGalley, through the courtesy of Severn House, for this ebook. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I really liked this book and I enjoy this entire series, too. Angela is a devoted employee who wants to do the best job she can, getting justice for the victims. She is also a widow who in theory wants to move on with her life, but isn’t sure she’s actually ready to date. Her best friend thinks Police Officer Chris Ferretti is perfect for Angela and there is a mutual attraction, but Angela holds back. There are some very serious themes and scenes in this book. However, Viets does a great job of lightening things up with some humorous moments. Angela’s friend Katie who is Assistant Medical Examiner gives her a crash course in what to do in a dive bar and it’s hilarious. The book takes place in a fictional county just outside St. Louis, but it’s true to real places in that area. I love how well Angela and Jace work together and their dedication to their jobs no matter the risks to themselves and look forward to future books. Fans of Patricia Cornwell or Kathy Reichs will enjoy the book and the whole series.
Thank you to NetGalley, through the courtesy of Severn House, for this ebook. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 20, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for an advance copy of Death Grip, the fourth novel to feature Death Investigator Angela Richman, set in the small Missouri town of Chouteau Forest.
Angela is called out to the body of a young woman recently buried in the forest. She suspects it is local high school track star Terri Gibbons who disappeared months ago. Then a message is found in the victim’s shoe, implicating one of the town’s richest inhabitants.
I have not read this series or author before so I was curious to see what was on offer. At first I wasn’t overly taken with it as it seems a bit cosy - a town where the elite, rich and socially connected rule the roost and law enforcement are subordinate to their needs and desires - but I soon got into the swing of things and went with the flow, probably aided by Angela’s first person narrative. The investigation is leavened by her first tentative steps into dating after being widowed two years previously. She occasionally seems blind and obstinate in her guilt about dating again but it seemed realistic to me and made her character more endearing.
The plot is not really my thing. A suspect is named early on by the very dead Terri and the rest of the novel involves getting the proof to prove it. There are few twists, no misdirection and no attempt to look for alternative suspects. It makes the novel superficial and one dimensional. It’s easy to read and mission focused so that’s a plus. I liked the obviously real and well researched procedural details that provide an eye opening window into the work of a death investigator. As an aside I thought the scene with an unrelated dead woman’s ring absolutely priceless.
Death Grip is a solid read at the cosier end of the market, although a strong stomach is required. I quite enjoyed it and don’t regret reading, it but it hasn’t made me want to rush out and read the others in the series.
Angela is called out to the body of a young woman recently buried in the forest. She suspects it is local high school track star Terri Gibbons who disappeared months ago. Then a message is found in the victim’s shoe, implicating one of the town’s richest inhabitants.
I have not read this series or author before so I was curious to see what was on offer. At first I wasn’t overly taken with it as it seems a bit cosy - a town where the elite, rich and socially connected rule the roost and law enforcement are subordinate to their needs and desires - but I soon got into the swing of things and went with the flow, probably aided by Angela’s first person narrative. The investigation is leavened by her first tentative steps into dating after being widowed two years previously. She occasionally seems blind and obstinate in her guilt about dating again but it seemed realistic to me and made her character more endearing.
The plot is not really my thing. A suspect is named early on by the very dead Terri and the rest of the novel involves getting the proof to prove it. There are few twists, no misdirection and no attempt to look for alternative suspects. It makes the novel superficial and one dimensional. It’s easy to read and mission focused so that’s a plus. I liked the obviously real and well researched procedural details that provide an eye opening window into the work of a death investigator. As an aside I thought the scene with an unrelated dead woman’s ring absolutely priceless.
Death Grip is a solid read at the cosier end of the market, although a strong stomach is required. I quite enjoyed it and don’t regret reading, it but it hasn’t made me want to rush out and read the others in the series.
August 2, 2023
Death Grip by Elaine Viets is the fifth book in her Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery series and this is one series you will be hooked on immediately !!
Angela Richman is exactly what her title says she is....she is called in when there is a death in the prominent Chouteau County Forest area, whether it is an accidental death or a murder. And in Death Grip she is called into the deep woods when the body of a missing high school track star is found buried along a creek bed. Upon futher investigating two other woman's bodies are discovered. These deaths will drive Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz down a dark road that leads them to a wealthy resident of the Forest that is untouchable. But when Briggs Bellerive's live in housekeeper is reported missing by her mother and she had written a diary of the way that she was treated by Bellerive, they just have to find her alive and build a case against him.
Unfortunately Angela and Jace are ordered by their bosses to stay away from Bellerive and the case or they could get fired. Luckily they have Assistant Medical Examiner and Angela's best friend, Katie, on their side so the three meet in Katie's office and secretly work the case and try to obtain evidence and build a case against Bellerive.
The Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery series is a slightly dark series but once you start reading one of the books in the series, you are completely drawn in and will want to keep the book open until you get to the end to make sure Angela gets justice for the people she is fighting for.
Angela Richman is exactly what her title says she is....she is called in when there is a death in the prominent Chouteau County Forest area, whether it is an accidental death or a murder. And in Death Grip she is called into the deep woods when the body of a missing high school track star is found buried along a creek bed. Upon futher investigating two other woman's bodies are discovered. These deaths will drive Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz down a dark road that leads them to a wealthy resident of the Forest that is untouchable. But when Briggs Bellerive's live in housekeeper is reported missing by her mother and she had written a diary of the way that she was treated by Bellerive, they just have to find her alive and build a case against him.
Unfortunately Angela and Jace are ordered by their bosses to stay away from Bellerive and the case or they could get fired. Luckily they have Assistant Medical Examiner and Angela's best friend, Katie, on their side so the three meet in Katie's office and secretly work the case and try to obtain evidence and build a case against Bellerive.
The Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery series is a slightly dark series but once you start reading one of the books in the series, you are completely drawn in and will want to keep the book open until you get to the end to make sure Angela gets justice for the people she is fighting for.
May 23, 2021
DEATH GRIP by Elaine Viets
The Fourth Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery
When a hiker stumbles upon bodies buried in the woods of Chouteau Forest, a toney enclave in Missouri, Angela Richman, death investigator, finds herself in a political nightmare. It's the rich and powerful covering for each other in a tale of sex and murder.
DEATH GRIP is a thriller and partially a police procedural, only partially because Angela is a death investigator, not a police officer. She, as well as the readers, knows who the killer is early on. The challenge, and the story, is proving it!
Not much angers me more than rich men doing whatever they want, and getting away with it. Sadly, this happens as much in real life as it does in fiction. This reality is the crux of the fourth Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery. Angela and Jace not only have to deal with a cunning suspect who has the wealth, power, and connections to stymie their investigation, but co-workers and superiors who would rather keep the status quo than find the truth.
I appreciate the humor slightly sprinkled throughout the story, lightening the darkness. I adore Cutter and I like the growing relationship between Angela and Chris. These aspects bring out the humanity sorely lacking in some of the other characters.
DEATH GRIP is a compelling mystery fueled by misogyny and sexual sadism as well as the determination to stop it.
FTC Disclosure – I was sent an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The Fourth Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery
When a hiker stumbles upon bodies buried in the woods of Chouteau Forest, a toney enclave in Missouri, Angela Richman, death investigator, finds herself in a political nightmare. It's the rich and powerful covering for each other in a tale of sex and murder.
DEATH GRIP is a thriller and partially a police procedural, only partially because Angela is a death investigator, not a police officer. She, as well as the readers, knows who the killer is early on. The challenge, and the story, is proving it!
Not much angers me more than rich men doing whatever they want, and getting away with it. Sadly, this happens as much in real life as it does in fiction. This reality is the crux of the fourth Angela Richman, Death Investigator Mystery. Angela and Jace not only have to deal with a cunning suspect who has the wealth, power, and connections to stymie their investigation, but co-workers and superiors who would rather keep the status quo than find the truth.
I appreciate the humor slightly sprinkled throughout the story, lightening the darkness. I adore Cutter and I like the growing relationship between Angela and Chris. These aspects bring out the humanity sorely lacking in some of the other characters.
DEATH GRIP is a compelling mystery fueled by misogyny and sexual sadism as well as the determination to stop it.
FTC Disclosure – I was sent an e-copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
April 21, 2021
Elaine Viets' DEATH GRIP shows that the wealthy are different indeed, and some need lessons in being human. I love those brave enough to speak truth to power, and clever enough to find a way when plain speaking isn’t enough. I enjoyed the descriptions, mirroring the flowering redbuds and dogwoods outside my own windows. I almost wished for a horse to ride, but I was glad the misadventures were safely inside a book. I confess to skimming over some of the crime scene descriptions, just a page or two, and most readers are probably made of stronger stuff than I and will “woman up” to read it all. The car crash and jaws of life scene reminded me of a teaching colleague who advised parents to buy their young drivers “tanks” — old, slow, sturdy vehicles, not sporty little cars.
To balance the twisty terrors, there’s a bit of humor, as only Elaine Viets can write it, and a puppy that only appears to be sweet and innocent. Good dog!
I even love the mood of the author photo on the back leaf. The yellow crime scene tape warns of things to come. Warning: you won’t get much else done once you start this book.
(4th in a series, but can be read alone)
To balance the twisty terrors, there’s a bit of humor, as only Elaine Viets can write it, and a puppy that only appears to be sweet and innocent. Good dog!
I even love the mood of the author photo on the back leaf. The yellow crime scene tape warns of things to come. Warning: you won’t get much else done once you start this book.
(4th in a series, but can be read alone)
August 16, 2021
In earlier books, author Elaine Viets depicted the protagonist, Death Investigator Angela Richman, as a troubled soul in a dark profession. In Death Grip, Viets lets some light in. Told in the first person narrative, Richman is slowly overcoming her grief over the death of her husband, and just as slowly exploring a budding relationship with police Officer Chris Ferretti.
An almost happy Richman, juxtaposed against three extremely dark murders, gives substance and depth to her relationships with Dr. Katie Kelly Stern, assistant county medical examiner, and Detective Jace Budewitz. Forced to collaborate secretly because of a corrupt and gullible homicide detective, and a foolish medical examiner, the team solves the crimes, despite the cost to their health and threats to their livelihoods. This team added adrenaline pumping mystery to this already engrossing story. I hope Viets keeps this crew together in future books.
Death Grip is a terrific book that I highly recommend.
(In return for an honest review, I was provided with an ARC of this book by the publisher via NetGalley.)
An almost happy Richman, juxtaposed against three extremely dark murders, gives substance and depth to her relationships with Dr. Katie Kelly Stern, assistant county medical examiner, and Detective Jace Budewitz. Forced to collaborate secretly because of a corrupt and gullible homicide detective, and a foolish medical examiner, the team solves the crimes, despite the cost to their health and threats to their livelihoods. This team added adrenaline pumping mystery to this already engrossing story. I hope Viets keeps this crew together in future books.
Death Grip is a terrific book that I highly recommend.
(In return for an honest review, I was provided with an ARC of this book by the publisher via NetGalley.)
July 17, 2025
Angela Richman is a Death Investigator, working for the ME's department. She is called out by the police when a death happens as the result of murder, highway accident, or any unattended death.
I've never run across such a job. For a small town near St. Louis, MO, there is a Medical Examiner, an assistant ME, a CSI tech, the Death Investigator, and a Homicide Detective, all handling the scene and the body of recently deceased. In this story, three young women's bodies are found buried in a forest. Two have been there for a few years so Angela doesn't handle them. When she notifies the families of the deaths, she always goes with a detective or police officer. Then, because one of the homicide detectives is misogynistic, racist, and toady to the ultra-rich families in town, Angela tries to avoid working with him.
There's some love interest in this book between Angela, a widow, and a police officer, but the story primarily focuses on finding evidence that one of the ultra-rich was responsible for the death of several women. There are also side stories of other obvious and unexplained deaths.
The stories hold together fairly well.
I've never run across such a job. For a small town near St. Louis, MO, there is a Medical Examiner, an assistant ME, a CSI tech, the Death Investigator, and a Homicide Detective, all handling the scene and the body of recently deceased. In this story, three young women's bodies are found buried in a forest. Two have been there for a few years so Angela doesn't handle them. When she notifies the families of the deaths, she always goes with a detective or police officer. Then, because one of the homicide detectives is misogynistic, racist, and toady to the ultra-rich families in town, Angela tries to avoid working with him.
There's some love interest in this book between Angela, a widow, and a police officer, but the story primarily focuses on finding evidence that one of the ultra-rich was responsible for the death of several women. There are also side stories of other obvious and unexplained deaths.
The stories hold together fairly well.
May 25, 2021
First, let me say that this sexist situation could not still be happening in any town today at this level. There cannot be a major police individual, an ME, and various rich folks who still an behave in this manner with no consequences. I wish this Story had a more believable storyline because the characters, the process of the storytelling was fabulous.
It is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the Angela character immensely. The humanity of all the characters, good and bad, was excellently portrayed.
Apart from the sexist attitudes of too many characters, and the horrible way women in all types of situations were portrayed, I enjoyed the book. I liked how the author wove other death stories throughout and mostly tied all of them up in a neat bow at the end of the book. I cannot imagine why it must be like to have notification of kin as part of your job responsibilities, and this story truly highlighted the process.
I will return to the author for another story.
It is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the Angela character immensely. The humanity of all the characters, good and bad, was excellently portrayed.
Apart from the sexist attitudes of too many characters, and the horrible way women in all types of situations were portrayed, I enjoyed the book. I liked how the author wove other death stories throughout and mostly tied all of them up in a neat bow at the end of the book. I cannot imagine why it must be like to have notification of kin as part of your job responsibilities, and this story truly highlighted the process.
I will return to the author for another story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2021
Angela Richman is called to the scene of a body that has been exposed after the creek caused a cave-in. As the death investigator, she is in charge of the body at the scene. When the assistant county medical examiner finds a surprising clue, will they be able to arrest and convict the possible killer? As Angela continues to help in the investigation, she has not yet recovered from the death of her beloved husband Donegon. Her friends have tried to convince her to move on, including Officer Chris Ferretti who has made his interest in Angela all too clear. The possible killer is one of the wealthiest members of the community; will someone try to protect him as they have done in the past? Angela will not let that happen, no matter the danger she may face. An exciting and complex case for Angela and Detective Jace Budewitz. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
February 28, 2021
Death Grip by Elaine Viets is a gripping mystery set in the small town of Chouteau Forest, Missouri. Angela Richman is a death investigator who sees death up close every day. When three bodies of young girls are found buried in the woods, all clues lead to a local man from a rich family. Even though Angela isn’t a police officer, she is asked to assist the local detective because of her ties to the small community. This angers the local “good ol’ boys” and they do what they can to try to thwart the investigation. Angela and the local detective, Jace, feel they are close to the killer but they have to figure out a way to prove it.
Good mystery! Liked the main characters and hated the local people who were trying to stop them, so it definitely made me keep reading to see if Angela and Jace could find evidence, despite the obstacles thrown their way.
Good mystery! Liked the main characters and hated the local people who were trying to stop them, so it definitely made me keep reading to see if Angela and Jace could find evidence, despite the obstacles thrown their way.
July 18, 2022
I mistakenly called A Star Is Dead Ms. Viets’s most recent book. It’s not, and a new book is due out any day, so this isn’t, either. If you like tongue in cheek humor and a murder mystery, this is for you. Unlike many mysteries, the perpetrator is identified early, and the remainder of the novel is spent trying to gather unequivocal evidence that will force the local courts to convict him for his vile deeds. Angela Richman, Death Investigator in Chouteau County, location of highly privileged Chouteau Forest near St. Louis, Missouri, completes basic paperwork on all possibly suspicious deaths before the bodies are released to the Medical Examiner. She keeps her life from being boring by working closely with detectives in the local police department and the Assistant Medical Examiner. Viets is known for giving her characters well-rounded personalities, including some amusing quirks.
January 21, 2023
Angela Richman is a death investigator in a wealthy St Louis, Missouri suburb. In this book, a hiker finds a body in the woods and Angela is called to the scene. Once there she finds out that there are two other bodies that are older and have been buried nearby. Is there a serial killer in Chouteau County? The detective on the case asks for Angela's help and they both get into hot water with their bosses with their investigation. They are determined to bring the killer to justice and have to find another way to make it happen. Also, Angela is a widow and in this book we see her start to emerge from her grief and give dating a chance. This book has some humor thrown in to break up the serious topics and was an enjoyable read.
February 18, 2021
Who killed young Terri? Angie, a death inspector has a clue but can she prove the case? That's the issue in this blend of procedural and cozy. There are lots of secrets in Chouteau County and people seem determined to keep them even as Angie pushes for justice. She's also a relatively new widow who is taking tentative steps toward a new relationship. Jace, her partner, is well written. I've only read one in this series, making this more or less a standalone for me and it was just fine that way. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This isn't too complicated, making it a good read for a lazy day.
March 3, 2024
Death Grip is the fifth book in the Angela Richman, Death Investigator series. I’ll admit if I’d known it was a series I’d never have requested it from NetGalley but that wasn’t clear on there. I liked it well enough. The mystery was ok. I liked Angela well enough. It was super short and I feel if it had been a little longer and more time spent on the characters I might have loved it. I liked it enough that I’d read more in the series. It did make me laugh a few times too. I’d never heard of the author before but it seems she’s written a lot of books and I’d read something else by her.
January 11, 2025
Elaine Viets's Death Grip has a female death investigator as the protagonist. The crime here takes place in a town where rich people can get away with murder. The murderer tortures and kills women. The death investigator solves the case by noticing that the house she was investigating as a crime scene had two water heaters. One was a fake and was really the killer's torture chamber. This book gives Veits a chance to show her versatility as a mystery writer. Readers may be familiar with her Dead End Job and Shop Until You Drop series books. The sleuth in this book has a more serious occupation and faces more of a challenge in solving the crime.
October 22, 2022
Angela Richman
In this book, Angela is called to a scene in the woods where there are quite a few bodies. One of the bodies is that of a young track star from the forest. She teams up with Detective Jace Budewitz to find out what happened until she gets a complaint about her by another detective and is given a written warning by the Medical Examiner, who is her boss. How Angela, along with Jace and the assistant ME, Katie Stern, manage to expose the killer and solve the case makes for a great read. Another great book in the series.
In this book, Angela is called to a scene in the woods where there are quite a few bodies. One of the bodies is that of a young track star from the forest. She teams up with Detective Jace Budewitz to find out what happened until she gets a complaint about her by another detective and is given a written warning by the Medical Examiner, who is her boss. How Angela, along with Jace and the assistant ME, Katie Stern, manage to expose the killer and solve the case makes for a great read. Another great book in the series.
April 5, 2023
I hate to say this, but despite all the fact-checking Viets does, I spotted some beginner botany and geography errors. Jefferson City is NOT north of Columbia, it’s south. Poison oak only grows in a few tiny areas in Missouri, not including the presumed location of Chouteau County.
Otherwise, it’s a good mystery with engaging characters, and I’m glad she mentioned Kakao, the wonderful chocolatier two blocks from where I live.
Otherwise, it’s a good mystery with engaging characters, and I’m glad she mentioned Kakao, the wonderful chocolatier two blocks from where I live.
May 2, 2021
This gripping and highy entertaining mystery is the second I read in this series and I think it's excellent.
The plot is fast paced and tightly knitted, the characters well developed and the solid mystery is full of twist and turns.
It kept me hooked and it's strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
The plot is fast paced and tightly knitted, the characters well developed and the solid mystery is full of twist and turns.
It kept me hooked and it's strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
April 11, 2022
Fun detective novel written by Elaine Viets, former popular St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist. Viets returns to her hometown for imaginative names: Chouteau County and Detective Budewitz, among others.
Food: Peppered salmon filet with broiled broccoli, cauliflower, new potatoes and red peppers.
Food: Peppered salmon filet with broiled broccoli, cauliflower, new potatoes and red peppers.
June 26, 2023
Set in Missouri, a death investigator finds that the death of a teen track star and a missing housekeeper may be connected. Only the prime suspect is very wealthy so some people don't want him investigated.
Great plot. Good blend of professional and personal life of the main character.
Love this author.
Great plot. Good blend of professional and personal life of the main character.
Love this author.
August 31, 2023
Fun ride. Can't put it down.
This story is a bit different. You know who did it and why but you have to buckle yourself to see if they can catch them. Ms Viets characters are realistic. I swear I know some of them. I'm loving the characters and the progression of the relationships as the series continues.
This story is a bit different. You know who did it and why but you have to buckle yourself to see if they can catch them. Ms Viets characters are realistic. I swear I know some of them. I'm loving the characters and the progression of the relationships as the series continues.
Read
June 20, 20213 stars. This is the fourth book in the series set in mythical Chouteau County, MO. The main character, Angela Richman is a death investigator. This is an okay read, nothing fantastic, short and somewhat predictable. This would be perfect for the beach or a long flight.
Recommended!
Recommended!
September 29, 2021
If you're going to contradict things, it'd be better if they were further apart than 2 pages.Page 19, Katie snared "the most eligible bachelor in Chouteau Forest, and on page 21 Briggs Beilerive is "..the Forest's most eligible bachelor". And Katie's boyfriend is not B B.
Read
March 17, 2024I was looking for a fast read, something that would move quickly and that's exactly what I got. Quick murder mystery, I'll probably check another of the author's books out as this is a recurring character.
July 6, 2021
Quick read
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