I’m not usually surprised by cop/mystery novels so I really enjoyed this stories unique conflict.... The chemistry between Ayers and Lauren is familiar and tangible, it feels like a comfortable FanFiction but not too much that it’s not sustainable otherwise. ( )

This is my second time reading The Red Files, and I'm still impressed. I love everything about The Red Files. The mystery part of the story is absorbing. Technology, politics, and the right to privacy are dangerous when mixed and should not be taken lightly by the masses. The well-paced romantic relationship between Catherine "Caustic Queen" Ayers and Lauren "Won't Back Down" King is a tad bit predictable, but their overall chemistry is sweet, and their banter is entertaining. ( )

Fun, Very Enjoyable Thrill Ride I have to give a disclaimer here: I worked with the author as a developmental editor on this book. I worked with her before it went to any other editors so I had no idea what the final version would look like and I just finished my first read of the full novel. 
 
All that said, if you like quick paced mysteries with a lot of humor and funny situations, you should grab this book. And if you're not sure if I'm just being biased and don't want to waste your money, read the sample. You'll know within the first couple of pages whether this book is for you.
 
I really, REALLY liked this book. The characters and the mystery are well done and the humor is fantastic.
 
I hope the author decides to write more - either a sequel or a new stand-alone novel. I love her voice and sense of humor. ( )

a good slow burn ( )

This is my fifth book by Lee Winter (!), and she leaves me speechless every time. "The Red Files" is really impressive because so many layers of this story and characters drive the story forward. I am genuinely amazed at how she keeps pulling stories like this out of her sleeve. How the hell did she come up with this story? I don't know. All I know is that Lee Winter has become one of my favourite authors. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the great moments you've given me.

"My problem" after finishing her books is always that I refer to each one as my "favourite" until I read her next book. I can only conclude that I have simply come not only to appreciate but to love all of her works.

This book is a mystery that unravels little by little. Just when I thought I could predict the ending, I got a surprise or two. Two great main characters, complete opposites, accompany the mystery novel: Lauren King and Catherine Ayers. Lauren comes from the Midwest, is down-to-earth and approachable. Catherine called the "Caustic Queen" is aloof, cold, and unpredictable. Her callous attitude kept their relationship on its toes, and so did the book's plot.

I loved it as the clues unfolded, and I had to put the pieces of the puzzle together. And I am indescribably and irrevocably in love with Catherine Ayers. She is the queen of all ice queens - forever captured in my heart. I read someone describing her as "larger than life". And, yes, she really is. I will definitely pick up this book and all of Lee Winter's other books again soon.

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Find more reviews on my blog WordsAndFiction. ( )