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Irish Garda Squad #1
Dare Game
One dead body, one ace of spades… Is the playing card an oversight—or a trademark?
Detective John O’Sullivan needs to find out if the murder was a one-off, or if the killer plans to work his way through a whole deck of cards. The plot thickens as his team discovers more unsolved murders with the same modus operandi—worldwide.
Amber Reed stumbles into the middle of the investigation when she discovers her teenage daughter is a key-player in the Dublin murder case. Determined to do the right thing, Amber and her daughter help John, even though doing so puts their lives in danger.
Pressed by time and duty, John has to protect them and crack the case before the killer strikes again.
Detective John O’Sullivan needs to find out if the murder was a one-off, or if the killer plans to work his way through a whole deck of cards. The plot thickens as his team discovers more unsolved murders with the same modus operandi—worldwide.
Amber Reed stumbles into the middle of the investigation when she discovers her teenage daughter is a key-player in the Dublin murder case. Determined to do the right thing, Amber and her daughter help John, even though doing so puts their lives in danger.
Pressed by time and duty, John has to protect them and crack the case before the killer strikes again.
372 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2020
404 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Colt
18 books20 followersMelinda Colt is an award-winning and bestselling author of thrillers, suspense, and mystery novels. While she's a law graduate and professional target shooter, she worked as a journalist before she became a full-time author and owns a graphic design business.
Melinda loves detective thrillers, chocolate, and her ideal date is to spend a rainy day cozied up with her husband and a classic movie. She loves to hear from readers, so if you have a question or want to learn more about her books, visit her website: melindacolt.com
In appreciation for her readers she gifts e-books, paperbacks and audiobooks to random subscribers every month. If you want to be included in the VIP list, and be notified about new releases and special offers, join Melinda’s Newsletter.
Melinda loves detective thrillers, chocolate, and her ideal date is to spend a rainy day cozied up with her husband and a classic movie. She loves to hear from readers, so if you have a question or want to learn more about her books, visit her website: melindacolt.com
In appreciation for her readers she gifts e-books, paperbacks and audiobooks to random subscribers every month. If you want to be included in the VIP list, and be notified about new releases and special offers, join Melinda’s Newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
November 9, 2020
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Melinda Colt weaves an intricate story from the point of view of three very different characters, each as intriguing and captivating as the next.
Read full review in the 2020 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Melinda Colt weaves an intricate story from the point of view of three very different characters, each as intriguing and captivating as the next.
Read full review in the 2020 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 27, 2020
The idea for this mystery caught my attention within the first chapter. A Dare Game, one that a transplanted loner girl will play in order to connect. Whew! I found myself holding my breath, wondering if she'd go through with one of the dares.
The characters are well fleshed out and interesting. I found myself caring about what would happen to them...always a good thing.
Can't wait for the next book!
The characters are well fleshed out and interesting. I found myself caring about what would happen to them...always a good thing.
Can't wait for the next book!
October 7, 2020
4 Stars
Dare Game is the first book in The Irish Garda Files and debut novel by Melinda Colt. This is an exciting murder mystery- with detectives, investigation, cybercrime, a ‘deadly’ game, danger, emotion, intrigue, romance, second chances, family dynamics, and plenty of drama.
I was really impressed with this debut novel and how easily I became absorbed in all the developments. I love a good murder mystery/thriller- so I was hooked right from the beginning of this story with its multi-layered and complex web of intrigue.
The premise is quite original and well-woven, that’s not to say there weren’t a few minor issues such as a bit of repeated information and a few inconsistencies- but they were very minor and nothing that really detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
Detective Inspector John O’Sullivan is an Irish police detective who is called to a recent murder scene where things just don’t add up. It doesn’t take long before all the evidence seems to point to a serial killer. He will have to figure things out quickly if he’s to prevent another murder. But it takes a worried mother and her frightened daughter coming forward before there’s a real break in the case. What unravels makes for really gripping reading.
What a great start to a thrilling new series. It’s shaping up to be fantastic. Can’t wait to dive into Book Two- “Killer Score”.
Thank you, Melinda Colt!
Dare Game is the first book in The Irish Garda Files and debut novel by Melinda Colt. This is an exciting murder mystery- with detectives, investigation, cybercrime, a ‘deadly’ game, danger, emotion, intrigue, romance, second chances, family dynamics, and plenty of drama.
I was really impressed with this debut novel and how easily I became absorbed in all the developments. I love a good murder mystery/thriller- so I was hooked right from the beginning of this story with its multi-layered and complex web of intrigue.
The premise is quite original and well-woven, that’s not to say there weren’t a few minor issues such as a bit of repeated information and a few inconsistencies- but they were very minor and nothing that really detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
Detective Inspector John O’Sullivan is an Irish police detective who is called to a recent murder scene where things just don’t add up. It doesn’t take long before all the evidence seems to point to a serial killer. He will have to figure things out quickly if he’s to prevent another murder. But it takes a worried mother and her frightened daughter coming forward before there’s a real break in the case. What unravels makes for really gripping reading.
What a great start to a thrilling new series. It’s shaping up to be fantastic. Can’t wait to dive into Book Two- “Killer Score”.
Thank you, Melinda Colt!
October 12, 2020
I knew I needed to read Dare Game, the first book in The Irish Garda Files series from Melinda Colt, the moment I saw the cover and a few teasers. It looked so thrilling and enticing that I just had to dive into the mystery between the covers. This book is a good start to what I feel will be a promising series that I look forward to reading. This one had a few moments where I did have to scratch my head with some editing and repeating but otherwise it was a gripping read. It drew me in and had me guessing the entire time I was reading.
Dare Game brings us the character, John O’Sullivan. He is an Irish detective working to solve a puzzling new murder. This book has pieces of everything for everyone to enjoy between the murder mystery, the thrilling adventure the characters find themselves on, and the undertones of romance and drama to keep the reader thoroughly engaged. I can’t wait to see what book two, Killer Score, will bring us!
Dare Game brings us the character, John O’Sullivan. He is an Irish detective working to solve a puzzling new murder. This book has pieces of everything for everyone to enjoy between the murder mystery, the thrilling adventure the characters find themselves on, and the undertones of romance and drama to keep the reader thoroughly engaged. I can’t wait to see what book two, Killer Score, will bring us!
October 13, 2020
This is my first book by this author and it will not be my last. I found that this story was a fast pace story. It is well written and I found myself turning the pages to see what is going to happen next. The suspense kept me wanting more and more. There is a murderer in town and they need to find out if there is more than meets the eye. The clues are subtle and can be missed if you read too fast. The story is so realistic that I thought it was a real crime story. There are so many twists and turns that you will start leaning one way and then smack it takes you down a different path. I highly recommend this story if you love thrillers, mysteries, and crime stories.
October 14, 2020
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt. This book grabbed my attention from page one and it simply wouldn’t let me go. I found myself completely drawn in to this world the author created. The characters really bring the story to life. They are well developed and easy to feel connected to. The author tell a great mystery story that had me completely hooked. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. I like the newness I felt with this storyline, it’s original enough to get me very excited about more. I’m very excited to see where this author takes readers next. Four big stars and highly recommended.
October 13, 2020
This four-star read will have all mystery lovers riveted to their seats. I thoroughly enjoyed how the author constructed the story and started it off very quickly. I was immediately transported and riveted by the storyline that unfolded. I don’t wish to give anything away. But suffice it to say I will be grabbing the rest of the series as quickly as I can. Highly recommend it!
October 6, 2020
5/5 Stars
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files #1) by Melinda Colt
This is the first book I've read by Colt, but it won't be my last. This is part of The Irish Garda Files, but can be read as a stand alone. This romance is one you need to read.
Amber, newly divorced and now single mom, moves from NYC to Ireland. Working means she doesn't have a lot of time with her daughter. When her daughter tells her what's going on Amber knows what to do. The quote I chose for Amber is: “You’re a real hero, John, you know that? No one else was able to figure out this case.”
John, an Irish policeman, is brought back to the time when his wife was shot. He goes through the neighborhood and finds his new fix. He finds himself falling for Amber and her daughter. The quote I chose for John is: “I’m glad you contacted us immediately after Hayley told you about The Game. This piece will help us solve the puzzle. I’m afraid we’ll have to inconvenience you further. I’m not sure yet, but based on what we know, our computer specialist will have to work from here for a few days.”
Highly recommended for romance lovers.
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files #1) by Melinda Colt
This is the first book I've read by Colt, but it won't be my last. This is part of The Irish Garda Files, but can be read as a stand alone. This romance is one you need to read.
Amber, newly divorced and now single mom, moves from NYC to Ireland. Working means she doesn't have a lot of time with her daughter. When her daughter tells her what's going on Amber knows what to do. The quote I chose for Amber is: “You’re a real hero, John, you know that? No one else was able to figure out this case.”
John, an Irish policeman, is brought back to the time when his wife was shot. He goes through the neighborhood and finds his new fix. He finds himself falling for Amber and her daughter. The quote I chose for John is: “I’m glad you contacted us immediately after Hayley told you about The Game. This piece will help us solve the puzzle. I’m afraid we’ll have to inconvenience you further. I’m not sure yet, but based on what we know, our computer specialist will have to work from here for a few days.”
Highly recommended for romance lovers.
October 12, 2020
This is the first book in a series from The Irish Garda Files. This story follows Amber, a single mother and her daughter Hayley, who move to Ireland to start a new life. But Hayley gets mixed up in some dark crime ring known as the dark web. It is up to her mother and Detective O’Sullivan to solve the rash of murders that are spreading and to keep her daughter safe. The characters are well written, and the story will keep you on the edge of your seat! Cannot wait to read the others!
October 11, 2020
I absolutely love how this novel is wrote, Melinda Colt has added a splash of authenticity to her work with the dialect and language used. Dare Game is truly realistic piece of art. When you are reading, it's almost as if you are transported to Ireland and are part of the novel. I absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves reading and mystery novels.
October 13, 2020
I've been reading Melinda's books for a long time, even though her usual genre isn't my cup of tea. When she told me she was writing a mystery/thriller, I thought, to myself, I wonder if she can do this. She's such a romantic. But she did it and did it well. She got me from the start. Without giving anything away, how could I put this book down when there was a dead woman across the street, a teenager way in over her head with some very bad stuff, and a handsome cop or two trying to solve the case. Well done, Melinda Colt. I can hardly wait for the next book.
October 14, 2020
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt, was a great little romance wrapped up in a mystery. I really loved that it is set in Ireland. I had to have a little help with a few of the words. I like that little bit of Gaelic thrown in. I like how the author brings out the emotional stress in teenagers when they have lifechanging events occur in their lives, most that they have no control over. I’m looking forward to more of the Irish Garda books.
October 14, 2020
A move across the ocean, a murder across the street from her new home and a game on the dark web. This story was intriguing and had interesting twists and turns. Mystery, crime, police, teenage angst with a splash of romance. This was a page turning thriller worth reading.
September 26, 2020
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1)
By Melinda Colt
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt. It is a mystery/crime story that has an amazing storyline and characters. One of the characters that I liked is Detective John O’Sullivan. His work at one crime scene expands when other crimes with the same MO are found all over the world. John is a man who when he gets a case, has a fierce determination to find the killer and bring them to justice. All while giving a sense of closure to the victim’s families. John is good at his job and is empathetic when he needs to be. Another wonderful character is Amber Reed. She is a mother who has learned that her teenage daughter has gotten caught up in a world of crime that John is trying to uncover. She is a mother who cares for her daughter and will do anything to keep her safe. Both John and Amber’s characters are well developed, and I found myself caring about them with each chapter that I read. I was rooting for John’s success in finding those who are part of a scheme that involves murder. The storyline is one that kept my interest all the way through. There is not a dull moment. The author has done an amazing job of weaving a tale that I just couldn’t put down until the final page. Don’t miss out on a suspenseful story that will have you reading far into the night. I highly recommend it.
By Melinda Colt
5 out of 5 stars
I loved reading the book Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt. It is a mystery/crime story that has an amazing storyline and characters. One of the characters that I liked is Detective John O’Sullivan. His work at one crime scene expands when other crimes with the same MO are found all over the world. John is a man who when he gets a case, has a fierce determination to find the killer and bring them to justice. All while giving a sense of closure to the victim’s families. John is good at his job and is empathetic when he needs to be. Another wonderful character is Amber Reed. She is a mother who has learned that her teenage daughter has gotten caught up in a world of crime that John is trying to uncover. She is a mother who cares for her daughter and will do anything to keep her safe. Both John and Amber’s characters are well developed, and I found myself caring about them with each chapter that I read. I was rooting for John’s success in finding those who are part of a scheme that involves murder. The storyline is one that kept my interest all the way through. There is not a dull moment. The author has done an amazing job of weaving a tale that I just couldn’t put down until the final page. Don’t miss out on a suspenseful story that will have you reading far into the night. I highly recommend it.
October 3, 2020
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt is a suspense thriller. Melinda has done a good job of weaving a dark tale of murder and a Detective that is trying to unravel the world of crime in which a young teenager has found herself on the wrong side of the law. With his determination and his strong sense of justice and his team will he be able to stop them and save those who are in the path of destruction and in the sight of evil?
October 1, 2020
Dare Game is a new type of book for me to read. Mystery /Crime this ia definitely a read for you Melinda does a magnificent job in dragging you into this world. I really liked Amber's portal. The character are very rateable. There so many twist and unexpected turns in this story it's unbelievable.
September 23, 2020
This is my first book by this author, I enjoyed it from beginning to end. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. This is a well written suspenseful, thriller that kept me turning pages to the end. I enjoyed being pulled into a dark world of murder and a guessing game on who did it. The characters are connectable and I really enjoyed them. They are strong and made the story feel real. This is a story about Inspector John who finds a dead body. Is there more to this than meets the eye? What will happen when his investigation leads him to Amber and her daughter? The twists and turns had me guessing to the end. You don’t want to miss this author’s first book in this series. It is engaging and fast paced. I highly recommend this book.
October 12, 2020
Dare Game (The Irish Garda Files Book 1) by Melinda Colt - Review by Gail Guerrero
5 Stars
Dare Game gave me serious chills. I was shocked and sad by this story. The Game that was played was sickening. The thought that people would do these things just for money. The simple fact that people find joy in manipulation and fear is terrifying. I really liked John’s character. He was brave, strong and very reassuring. I like that he didn’t back down or send someone else to do the hard work. He got over his past for his future. Amber and Hayley were also well written. The author showed that even when faced with the unknown there can still be hope. That believing in someone or something can change your outlook on the situation. I don’t usually do mystery books but this one took my interest and I was not disappointed. I really liked the way the story flowed. The author did a good job keeping my interest and not letting the suspense get out of hand. Like make me work for it but not too hard. Overall a goof read that most people can enjoy. Especially if you like stories that have thinking.
5 Stars
Dare Game gave me serious chills. I was shocked and sad by this story. The Game that was played was sickening. The thought that people would do these things just for money. The simple fact that people find joy in manipulation and fear is terrifying. I really liked John’s character. He was brave, strong and very reassuring. I like that he didn’t back down or send someone else to do the hard work. He got over his past for his future. Amber and Hayley were also well written. The author showed that even when faced with the unknown there can still be hope. That believing in someone or something can change your outlook on the situation. I don’t usually do mystery books but this one took my interest and I was not disappointed. I really liked the way the story flowed. The author did a good job keeping my interest and not letting the suspense get out of hand. Like make me work for it but not too hard. Overall a goof read that most people can enjoy. Especially if you like stories that have thinking.
September 24, 2021
I LOVED THE STORY & THE CHARACTERS.THIS WAS A VERY SCARY READ, IT SEEMED LIKE SOMETHING RIPPED FROM TODAY’S HEADLINES. THE WORLD TODAY HAS A MONSTER MOSTLY OF SOCIETIES OWN MAKING, TOUCHING EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US. THE DEGREE THAT WE LET IT, IS UP TO US. SOME HAVE LET THE MONSTER INTO EVERY ASPECT OF THEIR LIVES. THAT IS THE MISTAKE YOUNG HAYLEY MAKES, EVEN THOUGH SHE KNOWS BETTER. SEEMS LIKE TODAY EVERYONE SHARES WAY TOO MUCH, EXCEPT COMMON SENSE. THE ONE THING I WONDERED, AFTER HAVING MIND BLOWING SEX WOULD YOU HAVE THAT KIND OF PILLOW TALK? ARRGH! WHAT A WEIRD CONVERSATION, DIFFERENT STROKES. ;D
May 18, 2022
4.5!
I love a good murder mystery and this was my first one I dived into this year. It was thrilling and intricate and I loved the 3 different views from a determined Detective, a worried and loving Mother and a young and naive teenager. And how they came together to crack this case. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next one in the series 💛
I love a good murder mystery and this was my first one I dived into this year. It was thrilling and intricate and I loved the 3 different views from a determined Detective, a worried and loving Mother and a young and naive teenager. And how they came together to crack this case. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to the next one in the series 💛
January 31, 2021
"Ticks all the boxes"
I guess this is what they call 'writing to market'. Take a fiendish and original plot, ally it with an Irish Garda police procedural, and throw in a cheesy romance. That ticks the boxes for almost every female reader, so I'm surprised this isn't a #1 by now.
I guess this is what they call 'writing to market'. Take a fiendish and original plot, ally it with an Irish Garda police procedural, and throw in a cheesy romance. That ticks the boxes for almost every female reader, so I'm surprised this isn't a #1 by now.
September 24, 2021
An excellent mystery!
I couldn't put this book down. It was fascinating and fast moving. I liked the use of a young girl who brought the plot to the police. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author.
I couldn't put this book down. It was fascinating and fast moving. I liked the use of a young girl who brought the plot to the police. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author.
March 7, 2021
Unbelievable, suspense to keep you wondering what will happen next. Will there be more murders and who’s next. Can’t wait for the next.
December 11, 2020
An ace of spades left at a murder scene leaves a bad feeling for an Irish Garda detective even as a lonely teenage girl discovers an enticing new online game. This is first in an engaging new series set in Dublin with a cast of characters and suspenseful plot that pulls the reader into the story and makes one reluctant to put it down.
Dare Game opens with the stunning murder of a heart specialist in her own home and it is widower John O'Sullivan's case. He finds few suspects, but with his team, doggedly works the case. His biggest evidence is an Ace of Spades with a symbol written on it. In the process of doing the neighborhood interviews, he is surprised by his interest in the new American neighbor who has just moved in. He never thought he'd feel for another woman after his wife died, but when a bizarre twist in the case leads him back to her doorstep, he is ready to see where it all leads.
Amber Reed needed a fresh start in a fresh place so she took the job in Dublin. She thought her daughter would be fine with the move and discovered that all her daughter's suppressed anger from the divorce exploded when she learned of the move. Amber is toughing out her daughter's sullenness, relocating to a new country, and the pain from the break up of her marriage, but learning that the safe neighborhood she had moved into just had a murder leaves her chilled. The attractive detective helps calm her, but then Hayley shares a terrifying secret that makes her turn to John O'Sullivan for help. Dare she trust him with her heart as well as the case?
I've read most of this author's books under her other pen name and they reach across a broad range of genres. This is the first that was a murder mystery and I was excited to see how it would go. It didn't take long for me to forget about my curiosity and enjoy the story.
The mystery is a clever one and I enjoyed tracking along with John as he followed the leads. Part of the mystery was easy to figure out, but there was some good layers to it that left me with a solid reveal moment. John's partner and the cybercrimes' expert contributed a lot I liked their partnership and John's tenacious way of staying on the trail.
As to the characters, John and Amber were characters I could sympathize with and love from the start. My heart broke for the loss he suffered when his wife died and how lonely he has been since and I was on fire for the way Amber's ex treated her and his daughter. But, they were good for each other and worked hard to not let the past interfere with what they had in the present.
Hayley, Amber's daughter was the third main character and has a big role. At first, she is simply an angry teen who gets into a situation way over her head in an effort to avoid the pain of her dad's abandonment and her mom's decision to take them far from all she knows. But, then Hayley, made me proud with her choices when a shock snapped her in the face.
The author wrote a well paced and well balanced romantic suspense. The adults had a sensual romance and the suspense fitted well around the romance.
All in all, this was a great start and I was thrilled to learn this is a series because I want more of John O'Sullivan and more murders for him to solve. Those who enjoy police procedural and romantic suspenses that lean more toward the suspense should take a look at this one.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dare Game opens with the stunning murder of a heart specialist in her own home and it is widower John O'Sullivan's case. He finds few suspects, but with his team, doggedly works the case. His biggest evidence is an Ace of Spades with a symbol written on it. In the process of doing the neighborhood interviews, he is surprised by his interest in the new American neighbor who has just moved in. He never thought he'd feel for another woman after his wife died, but when a bizarre twist in the case leads him back to her doorstep, he is ready to see where it all leads.
Amber Reed needed a fresh start in a fresh place so she took the job in Dublin. She thought her daughter would be fine with the move and discovered that all her daughter's suppressed anger from the divorce exploded when she learned of the move. Amber is toughing out her daughter's sullenness, relocating to a new country, and the pain from the break up of her marriage, but learning that the safe neighborhood she had moved into just had a murder leaves her chilled. The attractive detective helps calm her, but then Hayley shares a terrifying secret that makes her turn to John O'Sullivan for help. Dare she trust him with her heart as well as the case?
I've read most of this author's books under her other pen name and they reach across a broad range of genres. This is the first that was a murder mystery and I was excited to see how it would go. It didn't take long for me to forget about my curiosity and enjoy the story.
The mystery is a clever one and I enjoyed tracking along with John as he followed the leads. Part of the mystery was easy to figure out, but there was some good layers to it that left me with a solid reveal moment. John's partner and the cybercrimes' expert contributed a lot I liked their partnership and John's tenacious way of staying on the trail.
As to the characters, John and Amber were characters I could sympathize with and love from the start. My heart broke for the loss he suffered when his wife died and how lonely he has been since and I was on fire for the way Amber's ex treated her and his daughter. But, they were good for each other and worked hard to not let the past interfere with what they had in the present.
Hayley, Amber's daughter was the third main character and has a big role. At first, she is simply an angry teen who gets into a situation way over her head in an effort to avoid the pain of her dad's abandonment and her mom's decision to take them far from all she knows. But, then Hayley, made me proud with her choices when a shock snapped her in the face.
The author wrote a well paced and well balanced romantic suspense. The adults had a sensual romance and the suspense fitted well around the romance.
All in all, this was a great start and I was thrilled to learn this is a series because I want more of John O'Sullivan and more murders for him to solve. Those who enjoy police procedural and romantic suspenses that lean more toward the suspense should take a look at this one.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2020
Fantastic
Hooked right from the start!! The horror, the intrigue and even romance thrown in. Who could ask for more? Melinda Colt has a winner with this story.
Hooked right from the start!! The horror, the intrigue and even romance thrown in. Who could ask for more? Melinda Colt has a winner with this story.
October 6, 2020
Dare Game by Melinda Colt is the first book in the Irish Garda Files series. This is a brilliant mystery book that is full of suspense and intrigue from start to finish. It is the kind of book that I had to read in one sitting because I just had to know what was going on and how it would all play out!
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it is one I thoroughly enjoyed! I was completely drawn in but her writing style and thought it was really easy to connect with the characters. I am already looking forward to reading more of this series!
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it is one I thoroughly enjoyed! I was completely drawn in but her writing style and thought it was really easy to connect with the characters. I am already looking forward to reading more of this series!
October 15, 2020
***** Wow . . .
Having read this author before, I figured I’d get hooked right away. Boy, was I right! A bang of an opening, an appealing, yet complicated detective, a touching mother whose errant teenage child gives her many sleepless nights, and a page-turning plot, I couldn’t put this book down. Highly recommended!
Having read this author before, I figured I’d get hooked right away. Boy, was I right! A bang of an opening, an appealing, yet complicated detective, a touching mother whose errant teenage child gives her many sleepless nights, and a page-turning plot, I couldn’t put this book down. Highly recommended!
June 4, 2024
#1 KINDLE
August 18, 2021
The Dare Game by Melinda Colt is an exciting read. It’s a real page turner with only one serious flaw, the author’s heavy use of Irish slang, it’s almost as if she was writing for an Irish audience. When taken in the context of the surrounding dialogue, it was easy enough to figure out what the slang words meant, but it still slowed things down for me. Granted, the use of slang in dialogue makes the dialogue more authentic, but I question the need to use as much slang as she did.
In the beginning there appears to be two unrelated plots running side by side in the Dare Game, the Dare Game that Haley and her friend Amy are playing on the dark web and the case of an international serial killer that the police are trying to solve. We know the two will come together since the book is called the Dare Game, but it’s hard to see how Colt will pull that off. At least it is at first. As I neared the halfway point, I thought I knew how the two plots would come together as one and I turned the pages faster to see if my idea was correct.
The second half of this story moves like a runaway freight train. The Climax as explosive as “Little Boy”, the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. My criticism of Colt’s over use of Irish Slang aside, Dare Game has made me a Melinda Colt fan and follower. Read Dare Game and you will become her fan and follower too.
In the beginning there appears to be two unrelated plots running side by side in the Dare Game, the Dare Game that Haley and her friend Amy are playing on the dark web and the case of an international serial killer that the police are trying to solve. We know the two will come together since the book is called the Dare Game, but it’s hard to see how Colt will pull that off. At least it is at first. As I neared the halfway point, I thought I knew how the two plots would come together as one and I turned the pages faster to see if my idea was correct.
The second half of this story moves like a runaway freight train. The Climax as explosive as “Little Boy”, the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. My criticism of Colt’s over use of Irish Slang aside, Dare Game has made me a Melinda Colt fan and follower. Read Dare Game and you will become her fan and follower too.
June 28, 2021
Unhappy after her mother's divorce and subsequent move to Ireland, sixteen-year-old Hayley Reed joins an online dare game with progressively higher stakes. A killing in her new, and previously deemed safe, neighbourhood places her in the middle of an international murder investigation.
Right from the start, I wanted things to work out for the characters and was invested in their future. I did feel that Amber let her daughter off far too lightly and there should have been more consequences for Hayley's behaviour.
Alas, I wasn't overly surprised by the plot twists. Much of it seemed telegraphed in advance and by the mid-point, I had a fair idea of how things were going shake out. Moreover, I wasn't terribly fussed with the graphic sex scene which really didn't fit.
So, four stars? Yes, it was an entertaining read despite the things I disliked. It was also self-contained which, in my book, is always a plus.
Recommended, for adult readers.
Right from the start, I wanted things to work out for the characters and was invested in their future. I did feel that Amber let her daughter off far too lightly and there should have been more consequences for Hayley's behaviour.
Alas, I wasn't overly surprised by the plot twists. Much of it seemed telegraphed in advance and by the mid-point, I had a fair idea of how things were going shake out. Moreover, I wasn't terribly fussed with the graphic sex scene which really didn't fit.
So, four stars? Yes, it was an entertaining read despite the things I disliked. It was also self-contained which, in my book, is always a plus.
Recommended, for adult readers.
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