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Jeff Resnick Mystery #4
Cheated by Death
Jeff Resnick faces a new dilemma: someone is stalking his sister-in-law, Brenda, who fears that violence from protesters will escalate near the women’s clinic where she works. Or could the vandalism, threatening phone calls, and letters against her have come from her abusive ex-husband? Meanwhile, Jeff grapples with meeting his estranged father and the sister he never knew existed. Could Patty Resnick be the key to Brenda’s stalker? And what has that got to do with the death of his brother Richard’s colleague?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
106 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Bartlett
26 books418 followersThe immensely popular Booktown Mystery series is what put Lorraine Bartlett’s pen name Lorna Barrett on the New York Times Bestseller list, but it’s her talent -- whether writing as Lorna, or L.L. Bartlett, or Lorraine Bartlett -- that keeps her there. This multi-published, Agatha-nominated author pens the exciting Jeff Resnick Mysteries as well as the acclaimed Victoria Square and Lotus Bay Mystery series, and now the Tales of Telenia fantasy saga, and has many short stories and novellas to her name(s). Check out the descriptions and links to all her works here: http://www.LLBartlett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 12, 2010
As I wrote it, I'm a bit prejudiced.
May 13, 2016
Intense and worthy of your attention., October 7, 2011
By Ellen Rappaport
This review is from: Cheated By Death (A Jeff Resnick Mystery) (Paperback)
This is the 3rd book in the Jeff Resnick series I've read. A special thank-you to the author and publisher, Polaris Press, for issuing it in book form.
This series is not a cozy and does not pretend to be a cozy...but as a cozy lover I have been engrossed in this series from the start. Jeff Resnick has some serious health issues most of which stem from that horrific mugging and beating he endured at the start in "Murder On The Mind". Besides the health issues Jeff also has received the gift of a paranormal...is that a gift or a curse. His paranormal abilities make themselves known when least expected often throwing Jeff off balance in more ways than one.
The intense feelings Jeff experiences regarding relationships with others whether in his family or just friends are at time painful to read. I find myself wishing someone could relieve Jeff of his headaches and even his paranormal insight. In this installment of Jeff's life he feels the same. The insights he experiences of his brother(Richard) and Brenda(Richard's wife)are issues he can't deal with.
I appreciate the way the author brings me right into the picture from the first page on. My feelings are of my returning to Richard & Brenda's kitchen to sit down and share a cup of coffee. I am going to go out on a limb and say that the Jeff Resnick series is my favorite of this autor's series'.
A definite thumbs up for this 3rd installment in the Jeff Resnick series.
By Ellen Rappaport
This review is from: Cheated By Death (A Jeff Resnick Mystery) (Paperback)
This is the 3rd book in the Jeff Resnick series I've read. A special thank-you to the author and publisher, Polaris Press, for issuing it in book form.
This series is not a cozy and does not pretend to be a cozy...but as a cozy lover I have been engrossed in this series from the start. Jeff Resnick has some serious health issues most of which stem from that horrific mugging and beating he endured at the start in "Murder On The Mind". Besides the health issues Jeff also has received the gift of a paranormal...is that a gift or a curse. His paranormal abilities make themselves known when least expected often throwing Jeff off balance in more ways than one.
The intense feelings Jeff experiences regarding relationships with others whether in his family or just friends are at time painful to read. I find myself wishing someone could relieve Jeff of his headaches and even his paranormal insight. In this installment of Jeff's life he feels the same. The insights he experiences of his brother(Richard) and Brenda(Richard's wife)are issues he can't deal with.
I appreciate the way the author brings me right into the picture from the first page on. My feelings are of my returning to Richard & Brenda's kitchen to sit down and share a cup of coffee. I am going to go out on a limb and say that the Jeff Resnick series is my favorite of this autor's series'.
A definite thumbs up for this 3rd installment in the Jeff Resnick series.
February 2, 2011
Thirty-eight-year-old Jeff Resnick is shocked when his physician half-brother, Richard, tells him that Jeff’s father is alive, but dying from emphysema. When Jeff was six, he was told that his father was dead. A visit with his father only opens old wounds, however, as Jeff discovers that his father not only where Jeff lived, but made no attempt to contact him. Compounding their relationship, is the rather new large family he has, including a rather tacky half-sister who seems too interested in Richard. Jeff cares for Richard’s wife Brenda and doesn’t want his new sister meddling in his half-brother’s marriage, especially when Brenda has her own issues to contend with. Not only is Brenda pregnant with a long awaited child, but she’s receiving threats, possibly because of her work at a women’s health center which performs abortions. Protestors have been picketing the center, and the trouble escalates when a doctor at the clinic is murdered right in front of Brenda.
Cheated by Death is a poignant mystery that explores the question of what really makes a family? The book is all about family members gained and family taken away, and the way people cope with these life-altering events. Author L.L. Bartlett shows a lot of compassion in her theme and created believable characters. My only quibble is that for educated men who should have known better, Richard and Jeff sure put themselves in danger near the end, although the final scenes were incredibly suspenseful. This book is part of the Jeff Resnick series, but it works very well as a standalone. Enjoy!
Cheated by Death is a poignant mystery that explores the question of what really makes a family? The book is all about family members gained and family taken away, and the way people cope with these life-altering events. Author L.L. Bartlett shows a lot of compassion in her theme and created believable characters. My only quibble is that for educated men who should have known better, Richard and Jeff sure put themselves in danger near the end, although the final scenes were incredibly suspenseful. This book is part of the Jeff Resnick series, but it works very well as a standalone. Enjoy!
March 13, 2014
Good to catch up with Jeff, Richard and all, but I found this one rather grim, so I don't get all the five-star raves. Series definitely needs to be read in order.
May 14, 2022
Cheated by Death by L.L. Bartlett is book 3 of the Jeff Resnick mystery series set in contemporary Buffalo NY. Jeff still suffers aftereffects of his near-deadly mugging in NYC: incapacitating headaches, paranormal awareness. Jeff lives "together, yet apart" in his own apartment over the garage at his brother Richard's house. Jeff, Richard (a physician) and Richard's wife Brenda (a nurse) are "family". Jeff loves them, does not want to ruin their happiness about Brenda's pregnancy by sharing his feelings of dread.
Someone is stalking Brenda. Could it be her ex? Or due to her job at the women's health clinic? A pro-life group picketing the clinic seem on the verge of violence. Jeff escorts Brenda to work each day - until violence erupts, and a clinic physician is murdered. Brenda was in the 'line of fire' - could she have been the target?
Jeff's stress level ratchets up dramatically when he learns his father is alive - and gravely ill. From age 6, growing up with his mother, Jeff had believed his father was dead. Not only was Chet alive all these years, he had a family, and they all lived nearby. Jeff's half sister Patty is rather trashy, very inquisitive about Richard's money. Patty and her criminal boyfriend are obviously out to get what they can.
Jeff struggles to resolve his emotions about the extended family that (mostly) welcomes him. He's compelled to discover who is stalking Brenda, and as part of protecting her, needs to find out the truth behind the shooting at the clinic.
The solution to all the mystery plot threads is quickly forgotten after finishing the book. What lingers in memory is the focus on family ties - welcome or not.
Someone is stalking Brenda. Could it be her ex? Or due to her job at the women's health clinic? A pro-life group picketing the clinic seem on the verge of violence. Jeff escorts Brenda to work each day - until violence erupts, and a clinic physician is murdered. Brenda was in the 'line of fire' - could she have been the target?
Jeff's stress level ratchets up dramatically when he learns his father is alive - and gravely ill. From age 6, growing up with his mother, Jeff had believed his father was dead. Not only was Chet alive all these years, he had a family, and they all lived nearby. Jeff's half sister Patty is rather trashy, very inquisitive about Richard's money. Patty and her criminal boyfriend are obviously out to get what they can.
Jeff struggles to resolve his emotions about the extended family that (mostly) welcomes him. He's compelled to discover who is stalking Brenda, and as part of protecting her, needs to find out the truth behind the shooting at the clinic.
The solution to all the mystery plot threads is quickly forgotten after finishing the book. What lingers in memory is the focus on family ties - welcome or not.
January 12, 2015
Since the mugging that nearly killed Jeff Resnick, and left him with psychic powers, he's been slowly making progress building a relationship with his older half-brother Richard Alpert and his sister-in-law Brenda from whom he had previously been estranged, and dating Maggie Brennen. But now someone is stalking Brenda, and since she works at a woman's health center where abortions are performed and the clinic is being protested by a church group, it is assumed that the evil pro-lifers are responsible. (And yes, I'm be sarcastic there because I'm tired of the idea that if someone is pro-life they're evil.)
In addition to the threat to Brenda, Richard informs Jeff that his father, who Jeff had believed to be dead for years, is actually still alive, though he is in very poor health. Jeff is reluctant to see the man since he believes since Chet Resnick was actually alive but never came for him when his and Richard's mother died, he has no right to see him now. But he goes, and then discovers to his shock that he has a younger sister too, and one that he immediately takes a dislike to.
For the most part I liked the book, and I've liked the three previous Resnick books I've read. There were some parts about it I didn't care for, but I'll continue to read the series because for the most part it's very good.
In addition to the threat to Brenda, Richard informs Jeff that his father, who Jeff had believed to be dead for years, is actually still alive, though he is in very poor health. Jeff is reluctant to see the man since he believes since Chet Resnick was actually alive but never came for him when his and Richard's mother died, he has no right to see him now. But he goes, and then discovers to his shock that he has a younger sister too, and one that he immediately takes a dislike to.
For the most part I liked the book, and I've liked the three previous Resnick books I've read. There were some parts about it I didn't care for, but I'll continue to read the series because for the most part it's very good.
July 4, 2013
Yet another stellar novel by L.l. Bartlett. I can't get enough of the Jeff Resnick mysteries and this was no exception. The topics in this book were dealt with very well; showing both sides of the abortion argument and since everyone seems to have an opinion on this subject, I'm sure it wasn't easy for the author to provide such an even balance for both sides of the argument.
At any rate, the book goes so much further; with the tragedy that strikes Brenda & Richard, Jeff's confusion about his feelings for his sister-in-law and dealing with new members of a family he didn't know, this book deals with these issues in a great way. It shows the uneasiness that'd come from meeting family that one doesn't know exists, dealing with truths from one's past and much more. All the while uncovering a great mystery that tied a lot of things together and helped Jeff deal with his new found family.
At any rate, the book goes so much further; with the tragedy that strikes Brenda & Richard, Jeff's confusion about his feelings for his sister-in-law and dealing with new members of a family he didn't know, this book deals with these issues in a great way. It shows the uneasiness that'd come from meeting family that one doesn't know exists, dealing with truths from one's past and much more. All the while uncovering a great mystery that tied a lot of things together and helped Jeff deal with his new found family.
April 5, 2011
Jeff Resnick once again comes to the rescue in this page-turning, exciting, paperback edition of L.L. Bartlett's "Cheated by Death."
We learn from the beginning, there are death threats, uncomfortable reunions with family members long thought dead, and even more, hope for the future.
The murder drama caught my attention by the fact that the Author deals with real-life issues in a solid, realistic manner. The subjects are Pro-life and Abandonment among other issues. It is well handled and thought-provoking.
You will have the tendency to read it in one sitting. However, take you time as this is a classic drama.
I was thrilled to see it in paperback, however, go and read it on ebook, if you choose. I didn't as I wanted to be able to re-read it at my leisure. I only hope Ms. Bartlett keeps publishing them in book form.
We learn from the beginning, there are death threats, uncomfortable reunions with family members long thought dead, and even more, hope for the future.
The murder drama caught my attention by the fact that the Author deals with real-life issues in a solid, realistic manner. The subjects are Pro-life and Abandonment among other issues. It is well handled and thought-provoking.
You will have the tendency to read it in one sitting. However, take you time as this is a classic drama.
I was thrilled to see it in paperback, however, go and read it on ebook, if you choose. I didn't as I wanted to be able to re-read it at my leisure. I only hope Ms. Bartlett keeps publishing them in book form.
May 13, 2015
This was an interesting read kept me guessing right up until the suspect was reveal, I went back and forth on who I thought did it, the ex-husband,, the church group, I even thought Jeff sister had something to do with.. not sure if I trust her.. if she shows up in and more books I'll be watching her with a side eye. Oh yeah and the chemistry between Jeff and his sister in law makes me go hmmmmmmm
January 27, 2013
A very emotional entry in the series with a lot going on. It was almost too much but the author blended the components together to make a very satisfying story. I particularly enjoyed Jeff learning more about his own past, but in snippets and pieces that he has to put together. All the suspenseful action at the end had me on the edge of my seat
March 19, 2013
I started reading this series this weekend,and have now read 2books and 1 short story,and have bought several more! Keeps my attention,easy to read but interesting,different storylines keep each book traveling with ease. Reccomend for mystery lovers,with romance and aspects of day to day life that any of us can relate to!
July 8, 2010
I didn't know if I was going to like the book or not. I have to tell you I loved it. I will be reading more of this series. Jeff and his family are very interesting. Not to mention I like the author as she is great and I look forward to her other series.
June 29, 2015
Someone is stalking Jeff's sister in law Brenda and family is important to Jeff. He sets out to protect Brenda.
Jeff also gets to find out more about his own family and that brings on new emotions.
This is a suspenseful, well written fast paced story.
Excellent book by L.L. Bartlett!!
Jeff also gets to find out more about his own family and that brings on new emotions.
This is a suspenseful, well written fast paced story.
Excellent book by L.L. Bartlett!!
August 1, 2011
Another winner by my friend, Lorraine Bartlett!
November 17, 2012
Read this one is a couple of hours. Great mysteries. This one is the best so far, but they keep getting better as I go!
May 13, 2012
Love this Jeff Resnick series. Just wish there were lots more to read.
June 11, 2022
Yes, yes, and also oh my god no.
I've come across some violent revelation scenes in the mystery genre, but this might be one of the most gory and depressing. Oh boy.
The introduction of the other side of Jeff's family, both dead and alive, was really good. I hope we see more of these characters as their series progresses.
Bonus:
Jeff: *reads people's minds*
Also Jeff: 'They're smiling at each other all the time. Brenda switched to decaf coffee. Brenda's drinking club soda instead of alcohol. Hmm... They probably finalized their Christmas vacation plans.'
Apparently you can be psychic but also an imbecile.
I've come across some violent revelation scenes in the mystery genre, but this might be one of the most gory and depressing. Oh boy.
The introduction of the other side of Jeff's family, both dead and alive, was really good. I hope we see more of these characters as their series progresses.
Bonus:
Jeff: *reads people's minds*
Also Jeff: 'They're smiling at each other all the time. Brenda switched to decaf coffee. Brenda's drinking club soda instead of alcohol. Hmm... They probably finalized their Christmas vacation plans.'
Apparently you can be psychic but also an imbecile.
April 8, 2019
One reviewer labeled this "psychological thriller". It didn't come up to that standard. I found it very disjointed and several relationships between characters were strange and awkward. This is one of those stories that seemed to need someone to do something stupid to move the story along. Also, I don't like when current social issues are made a part of the story line. It seems that the author just wants to write the story in order to weigh in on the topic and not write a story. Don't know if I'll continue the series.
August 27, 2019
Cheated By Death
Amazing intense tome with page turning urgency! The characters have become real and their book is hard to put down. Jeff’s fathers side of the family begin to emerge and many layers of story for each of our characters emerge. I won’t give this one away. Just read it!
Amazing intense tome with page turning urgency! The characters have become real and their book is hard to put down. Jeff’s fathers side of the family begin to emerge and many layers of story for each of our characters emerge. I won’t give this one away. Just read it!
November 11, 2019
Brilliant supernatural thriller.
If your a fan of the first three books you'll love this. Jeff meets his terminally ill father, he thought was already dead. He meets his sister.His whole family become targets of a crazed killer who is out for revenge. Plenty of mystery and suspense. Brilliantly written.
If your a fan of the first three books you'll love this. Jeff meets his terminally ill father, he thought was already dead. He meets his sister.His whole family become targets of a crazed killer who is out for revenge. Plenty of mystery and suspense. Brilliantly written.
July 16, 2018
Not as good as the first few but good in its own right
Not as good as the first few but good in its own right. Not as many psychic episodes we've grown to love, just more emotional baggage.
Not as good as the first few but good in its own right. Not as many psychic episodes we've grown to love, just more emotional baggage.
January 8, 2018
I'm really enjoying this series. The main characters are great, their interactions totally believable. I guessed who did it a little over midway through the book, but got the reason totally wrong.
February 22, 2019
This is one of the best series I have ever read, You just don't want to quit reading. Thanks L.L. Bartlett!
June 20, 2019
Suspenseful
There was not the vision like the past books. It was a more personal and new family for Jeff. Enjoy
There was not the vision like the past books. It was a more personal and new family for Jeff. Enjoy
August 10, 2019
I am enjoying this series. The characters are amazing and I love the mystery with the psychic feel to it. Looking forward to the next book.
January 16, 2021
more in line with formulaic cozy mystery style
I liked the earlier two better but will keep reading as I really like the protagonist and his background
I liked the earlier two better but will keep reading as I really like the protagonist and his background
July 24, 2021
Page turning adventure
Resnick book four is a thrilling adventure that I simply could not put down. The ending is so exciting, complex and unexpected in depth.
Resnick book four is a thrilling adventure that I simply could not put down. The ending is so exciting, complex and unexpected in depth.
February 14, 2022
I thought this was a very enjoyable light psychic mystery/thriller.
March 16, 2022
The writing is great, the characters are very multidimensional and believable, and the storyline keeps you sitting on the edge of your chair turning page after page to see what will happen next.
May 20, 2024
enjoyed this audio book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews