Battlegrounds: Old Friends Meet New Enemies

We all do it, whether we want to or not. Old friends, whom we love dearly, slip into the darkness or fade into the sunset. When they accidentally tap into our memories through a song, or a photo, or even a phone call, we remember how we loved them and set about catching up on things. If you’ve stopped by my Kiss and Tell Blog, you can probably name some of my favorite authors and quickly identify their characters whom I embrace as good friends. If you’ve got a minute or two, I’ll clue you in on a few of my favorites.

Let’s start with J. D. Robb, alter ego of author Nora Roberts. I’ve loved them both for more than

two decades and spend countless hours emerged in the books they create. Sad to say, I’ve been negligent and recently haven’t spent any time reading old or new novels they’ve created. My first stop is with Lieutenant Eve Dallas in the January 30, 2018 release Dark in Death, another bestselling novel by master of suspense J. D. Robb. Publishers Weekly calls this phenomenally popular police procedural novel “inventive, entertaining, and clever”.

Dark in Death

(Book 46 in the In Death series)

Lt. Eve Dallas takes on a case that may well be "death imitating art". It was a stabbing in the dark on a chilly February night during a screening of Psycho in midtown. Someone sunk an ice pick into the back of Chanel Ryan's neck, then disappeared quietly into the crowds of drunks and tourist in Time Square. Her best friend had slipped out of the theatre to take a call. As Eve puzzles over this carefully planned homicide which seems oddly personal, she receives a tip from an unexpected source. An author of police thrillers claims she recognizes the crime from the pages of her own book. Since this killer seems to find inspiration in someone else's imagination, Eve and her billionaire husband Roarke read mystery stories for help in identifying the killer.Time is running out before the next victim plays an unwitting role in the murderer's deranged drama.

The NYPD Red series is another favorite of mine and is something a bit different. It focuses on police officers who are tasked with protecting New York's elite. The relationship between Detectives Zach Jordan and Kylie MacDonald adds another level of interest.This is the fifth book in the series.

NYPD Red 5

(Book 5 in the NYPD Red series)

James Patterson and Marshall Karp

The one who knows the secret is the one who holds the power.

The richest of New York's rich gather at the Pierre's Cotillion Room to raise money for those less fortunate. The mayor is present, along with Detectives Zach Jordan and Kylie MacDonald of the elite NYPD Red task force providing security.

The room is rocked by a fatal blast, stirring up memories of 9/11. Is the explosion an act of terrorism-or a homicide? But, Zach and Kylie have other cases, especially the murder of a high profile film producer in rather shocking circumstances. The repercussions of both crimes can be enormous and the city is terrified of a loose bomber in its midst. The pressure is on.

This novel is another page-turner from James Patterson, a master of his craft.

Private Princess

(Book 14 in the Private Series)

James Patterson 

When Jack Morgan, the head of the world's foremost investigation agency, receives an offer he cannot refuse he boards his Gulfstream jet an flies straight to London. He's been invited to meet Princess Caroline, third in line to the British throne. The Princess needs Morgan's  skills, and his discretion. A close friend, Sophie Edwards, is missing.

How could I catch up with friends without checking in with the Women's Murder Club and Detective Lindsay Boxer? It's book 17 already, believe it. James Patterson and Maxine Paetro present a novel filled with suspense and mystery, compelling characters, and top notch drama. Don't miss out on this special treat.

17th Suspect

(Book 17 in the Women's Murder Club)

James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

A methodical, unpredictable killer is stalking San Francisco-and is getting too close to Detective Lindsay Boxer. A confidential informant's tip leads Lindsay to disturbing conclusions, including concern that something has gone horribly wrong inside the police department itself.

Well, I'll need to check on Alex Cross and Michael Bennett, so stay with me as I renew more old friendships. Stay tuned for the next post and meet the newest star of James Patterson's crew.