Loyalty in Death

Nine books into J. D. Robb's In Death series, and I can't seem to stop my growing obsession with it. Loyalty in Death has a rather fun plot as far as murder mysteries go. A mysterious political group instigating blowing up New York City landmarks and a woman who literally drilled her lover to the wall are just two problems Eve faces. Individually, they are intriguing enough, but having to solve the two cases together causes Eve more than one headache. How Ms. Robb weaves the two stories together is awe-inspiring.

For all the fun of the bombings and a woman who did the murder but goes free, Loyalty in Death wouldn't be half as impressive without that one spark of growth Eve shows. Watching Eve become something other than the show more short-tempered, bull-headed, mean lieutenant we first meet is why the series is so compelling. I love watching her hesitantly express her emotions to others, recognize her found family, and show the world her vulnerability. I am Team Eve all the way!

I continue to listen to this series via audiobook, and I have to say that Susan Erickson deserves all the awards for her performance. After nine books and the novella, her characterizations ARE the characters. I instantly know which character is speaking based on the voice used, a feat in and of itself. Even more remarkable is that these books contain a large cast of characters, and yet every character is unique and recognizable. Her performance never wavers, never changes. She is the reason I refuse to read the books. She brings the characters to life in a way I never could. show less

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

Not only is there an unknown bomber in New York City, there is a formerly unheard of group sending teasing messages to Detective Eve Dallas. As things go from bad to worse, Eve scrambles to keep the city safe. Eve fights hard, and relies on sexy husband Roarke even more than ever. His technical skills are matched by no other and time is definitely of the essence.

I love this series! One of the things that captivates me is the way Eve is opening up to Roarke. It is bit by bit and equally sad and frustrating, while at the same time imminently rewarding. A dichotomy! Eve had a horrid past and being fully present for Roarke is taxing at times. The way J. D. Robb keeps this as part of the conflict in the story is done so show more remarkably well.

Peabody is front and center in this story. She is Eve's aide and they work together on every case. This time around, even with her professionalism, she manages to raise the ire of her boss. Peabody has gotten involved with McNab, another cop on the team. I enjoyed that distraction. Also, Eve's and Peabody's interactions are almost as fun as Eve's and Roarke's. Peabody is becoming one of my favorite characters in this series.

Let us not forget that this series is based in the middle of the 21st century. So the droids and other technology that are part of this story are definitely worth mentioning. Beyond the personal relationships, of course we have the mystery, danger and action. It never let up in this book.

There are fifty books in this amazing series, and Loyalty in Death is book nine. No matter how much I read every day, I cannot give this series the love and attention I wish. I will keep on reading as much as I can, and I am eager to read book ten, Witness in Death, as soon as reasonably possible. show less

When a crazed bomber sends taunting letters threatening the city NYPSD homicide detective Lieutenant Eve Dallas loves, she races the clock to find the madman before he keeps his promise to wreak havoc on the corrupt masses. Can she find the bomber before her beloved New York City falls?

In this, the ninth in the “In Death” series, readers will be delighted to find the playful banter between Eve and Peabody is alive and well, offering them a humorous respite from the grittiness of the plot. With Eve working in a different department, readers get to see her in a bit of a different light as the determined bomber tries to destroy what is considered the city’s symbols of the rich. Although written long before the towers fell, today’s show more readers are likely to find the telling of this tale, with its suggestion of the towers as a possible target, serves as a sad harbinger of things to come.

As always, the relationships are a highlight of the narrative; Peabody and McNab are sure to keep readers chuckling while Eve and Roarke continue to build their lives together. There’s plenty for fans of the series to appreciate here, but those new to the series will find the story works well as a stand-alone.

Highly recommended. show less

In 2058 New York City Police Lieutenant Eve Dallas is investigating the murder of tycoon J.C. Branson. He died when his lover, Lisbeth Cooke, used a super powered screwdriver on J.C.'s heart during a jealous rage. Eve thinks there is a lot more to this while Lisbeth calmly explains her reasons, and she is right, but the answer is not what Eve suspects it might be. Eve's attention gets jolted by a series of notes from a group that calls itself Cassandra, after the Greek goddess who foretold the future. Bombings follow each note, with the promise of widespread destruction in the city.

Loyalty in Death is a first-rate romantic suspense novel, in a series that is very addictive. They are filled with vivid and fully formed characters, a show more fascinating futuristic setting, and ever-entertaining story lines. I definitely plan to read more. show less

The In Death series has, for me, always been more about the ongoing characters. I love checking in on Eve, Roarke, Peabody, McNab, Feeney, Mavis, Nadine and everyone else. The plot is secondary, but when the characters and plot are going on all cylinders, boy howdy are these books fun. This is not one of those books. Later books in the series say how Eve brought down a terrorist group that called itself Cassandra. This is that story, and for some reason, it...bored me. Not something have ever said before with this series. Even a twist involving Peabody's brother didn't bring me any further into the story. Ah, well, everyone should get one misfire.

Loyalty in Death
4 Stars

A routine investigation into the homicide of a businessman is interrupted by a series of bombings that hit close to home when the perpetrator targets Roarke's holdings and sends taunting letters to Eve.

While the bomb plot is all too realistic in this day and age (perhaps even more so post 9/11), and the case has some incredibly intense moments, the villains are fairly obvious and the outcome predictable. That said, the character development and dialogue make this a series to return to over and over.

The relationships really stand out in this installment whether it is Peabody and McNab taking an interesting step in their love/hate relationship; Eve realizing that marriage to Roarke will require a change in show more attitude, or the hints at some intriguing things to come with Eve's mother.

In sum, a fast-paced and enjoyable read. Looking forward to seeing what happens next. show less

I love all the books in the IN DEATH series, but this was a special favorite. Detective Eve Dallas is on the hunt for a group of fanatics responsible for serial bombings throughout New York City. She and Rourke tease and have steamy passion. I loved the subplot involving Peabody and McNab, a ship I was hoping would eventually happen! There is a family connection in this book, and a really good mystery with several interesting twists! A great mix of police procedural and good character stories