Torch Ginger

Lei Texeira has now been made Detective, and she's transferred from the Big Island to Kauai. When a case comes her way involving a missing man, it soon turns into something much bigger when a pattern of missing transients over the past years is discovered. Is someone kidnapping and killing these missing people or could this be the work of a mysterious cult on the island? Added to this, Lei is torn between two men, her ex-boyfriend who wanted to marry her, and a new handsome, charming man who is romancing her.

This was a very entertaining story. I enjoyed this one a lot more than the first book (Blood Orchids) in this series, and I found Lei's character more likable this time around. I loved the setting on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. show more The descriptions were vivid and it really made the story for me. I also found the references to Hawaiian culture interesting. The story had an intriguing cast of characters. I especially liked Lei's father, Lei's fellow detective and partner Jenkins, and the FBI lady Marcella. All around a very enjoyable story with a wonderful setting. show less

Neal's characters don't seem fully thought out. There are numerous inconsistencies that are hard to reconcile, like the main character being both afraid of physical relationships yet willing to throw herself into new ones without a second thought. The plot is pretty decent and makes for a good mystery but I'd also like to see more of the Hawaiian culture mixed in.

What a wonderful series. I think I have a new favourite author, honestly... just enjoyed it too much.
From the ever-growing plot right through to Lei, Stevens, and Keiki this series keeps me spellbound. The author's writing skill takes you right into the heart of all the turmoil as Lei went on another hunt for a serial killer. Her knowledge of the islands of Hawai is part of the allure of her books. It keeps you on the edge as jou trudges through a boiling pot of evidence and emotional turmoil. Lei's character ever-growing as she uncovers the secrets of this small island.
I must admit I was not happy when I saw that Lei and Stevens had broken it off... so without adding a spoiler in here I am just going to say...they are perfect for each show more other - and leave it there.
Well done on another case and for the wonderful journey into Hawai. show less

This was a really nice follow up to the first book, and if you read that you should step right into this. Without saying too much, there's a nice arc that started in the first which feels completed to a place of decent repose here. Definitely recommend this series, and I feel pretty well invested in the protagonist...

This is the second in the Lei Texeira mystery series that take place in Hawaii. In the first book, Blood Orchids, the reader gets Lei's troubled background and meets the feisty, ambitious Hawaiian cop. In this one, she's made detective, has broken an engagement, and moved to a different island where her initiative and instincts lands her in the middle of a serial killer or killers' rampage. Toby Neal, a native Hawaiian, is a writer to watch. I for one want to read all the books in the series -- especially wonderful for people going to Hawaii, in Hawaii, or just back from there! A bonus is that the books are very reasonable on Kindle. Highly recommended for mystery and Hawaii fans!

Transients are disappearing but no one notices until Detective Lei Texeira investigates the disappearance of Jay Bennett where she meets Health Food store owner and hippie Jazz Haddock who brings to her attention the many disappearances over the years that he has noticed and kept a record of.

There is thankfully less focus on Texeira's issues from past trauma, once mentioned it doesn't need to be retold

Toby Neal's Torch Ginger is the second in the Lei Crime Series set in Hawaii. I enjoyed this one better than the first book. Our main character, Leilani Texeira, is making progress in her career and just getting over a romance. The storyline moves along well, with enjoyable bits of Hawaiiana thrown in along the way. A bit more romance than expected, but I was fine with that. Secondary characters nicely fleshed out and most importantly, Lei showed some growth, although she's still impulsive. Torch Ginger is an enjoyable read for those who like mysteries and love Hawaii.