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In Death #36
Calculated in Death
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Mystery & Thriller (2013)On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better.
A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn't seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.
But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait. . . .
A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn't seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.
But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait. . . .
386 pages, Hardcover
First published February 26, 2013
2177 people are currently reading
10098 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Robb
169 books35k followersJ.D. Robb is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling In Death series and the pseudonym for #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts. The futuristic suspense series stars Eve Dallas, a New York City police lieutenant with a dark past. Initially conceived as a trilogy, readers clamored for more of Eve and the mysterious Roarke. Forgotten in Death (St. Martin's Press, September 2021) is the 53rd entry in the series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,597 reviews
December 4, 2013
May there be many more In Death books to come.
September 5, 2019
A few more happy hours spent in the company of Eve, Roarke, Peabody and the rest. There were a number of murders, lots of possible murderers and Eve managed to become physically involved several times. In other words, all the fun and games we expect from these novels.
I always enjoy the way Robb writes, but sometimes she produces real gems. Her description of the sleeping cat, Galahad, as looking like "overfed roadkill" delighted me! She also has a real ability to write humorous dialogue . I spend much of the time smiling as I read and frequently laughing out loud.
This series is definitely comfort reading for me. If I want to spend a few hours with a book I know I will love I just have to grab a J.D. Robb
I always enjoy the way Robb writes, but sometimes she produces real gems. Her description of the sleeping cat, Galahad, as looking like "overfed roadkill" delighted me! She also has a real ability to write humorous dialogue . I spend much of the time smiling as I read and frequently laughing out loud.
This series is definitely comfort reading for me. If I want to spend a few hours with a book I know I will love I just have to grab a J.D. Robb
August 9, 2018
Another great read with Eve and Roarke in the year 2060! I absolutely love the In Death series! It is the longest series I know of with approximately 46 books under JD Robb’s name! JD Robb is better known as Nora Roberts; and she proves that she can not only write heartwarming love stories but also fascinating crime/murder mysteries. What I love about the In Death series is the characters in it. Eve and Roarke are the main characters and mostly everyone who has read these books falls hard for the dazzling Roarke! He’s unbeatable in romance land!! He’s hands down the best book hero ever, I don’t think he can be topped!
This is a must read series, each book is about a crime, but we get so much more! I personally have never heard anything negative about this series! If you haven’t tried it yet; you must give it a shot immediately! You won’t be disappointed!!
This is a must read series, each book is about a crime, but we get so much more! I personally have never heard anything negative about this series! If you haven’t tried it yet; you must give it a shot immediately! You won’t be disappointed!!
February 21, 2013
Another book. Another murder. Yet none of it feels old or redundant. Visiting Eve and Roarke in CALCULATED IN DEATH is like catching up with old friends. You never seem to get tired of reading about them.
On the Upper East Side, a woman is found dead at the bottom of a staircase, missing her valuables. The victim is named Marta Dickenson and as a successful accountant and a loving mother, she is the last person suspected to be targeted for a hit. Because of that, most cops would conclude that it was a mugging, but signs indicate to Eve that something else is going on here. Blood inside the building notifies Eve that a homicide may be the answer. That means, a killer is on the loose and it’s up to Eve to locate and tag this trained killer.
If you’re a loyal fan of the series, you are guaranteed to love this book. Robb follows the same equation that has created such a buzz surrounding this series. Smart and effective, Eve Dallas is as tough as ever and nothing seems like it’s ever going to slow her momentum down. Lieutenant Eve Dallas will forever go down as one of the most well-loved and memorable heroines of our time.
The titles of the books often give readers a glimpse of what the mystery is about and I think this calculated, numerical approach to a mystery is something new and fresh. I love the way Robb is able to take something so simple and create a story that has its twists and turns to make it a ride that readers will never forget.
When I read an In Death novel, I often force my brain to work overtime, trying to decipher the next move or outcome before Robb so expertly reveals the truth. It’s almost like readers are the audience at a magic show, where Robb is the magician performing a magic trick to impress us all. I’m always trying to figure out her next move before she even attempts it, and yet I am always so surprised by the reveal in the end. For me, that’s what makes this series so engaging and fun. That’s what keeps me coming back for more.
As most of you know, I love Roarke (who doesn’t?) so I always tune into the next installment of this series to get my dose of the hot Irish businessman. Roarke doesn’t make his grand appearance until a little later in the book, but as long as he is there, I’m a happy reader.
CALCULATED IN DEATH thrilled me, seduced me and excited me. Robb can never disappoint me.
*ARC provided by publisher
September 10, 2016
A mystery about accountants and accounting stuff? Count me in!! (haha, see what I did there?)
Okay, so maybe the world of accounting isn't the most exciting thing out there, but don't worry because we get to learn about shell corporations, dummy companies, and tax shelters - so it's edutainment.
Okay, so maybe I don't want to learn about those things and just want to read about bloody murders in the future where there are flying cars and machines that cook for you. But, still - it was readable.
Okay, so maybe that's not the biggest endorsement out there. So, I guess I read it for the Roarke.
And, by the way - Eve uses herself as bait. Again. Come on, already! She uses herself as bait as often as the pedo-van guy uses "free candy". It's played. Really really played.
Okay, so maybe the world of accounting isn't the most exciting thing out there, but don't worry because we get to learn about shell corporations, dummy companies, and tax shelters - so it's edutainment.
Okay, so maybe I don't want to learn about those things and just want to read about bloody murders in the future where there are flying cars and machines that cook for you. But, still - it was readable.
Okay, so maybe that's not the biggest endorsement out there. So, I guess I read it for the Roarke.
And, by the way - Eve uses herself as bait. Again. Come on, already! She uses herself as bait as often as the pedo-van guy uses "free candy". It's played. Really really played.
February 5, 2019
I just love this series so freaking much. ❤❤❤
Eve & Roarke are the best couple that I've ever read. 😍😍😍
Eve & Roarke are the best couple that I've ever read. 😍😍😍
October 24, 2017
"On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better."
“That's a lot of vegetables.
"It is, yes, and if you eat them like a good girl..." He lifted the silver lid on another plate, revealed a small pizza, with pepperoni arranged into a smiley face.
She tried to give him a stony stare, but the laugh won out. "You think you're cute, don't you, pal?"
"Adorable."
"In this case, you can have adorable. Ow!" She managed the stony stare when he slapped her hand away from the pizza.
"Vegetables first.”
Of course we had the big premiére of the Icove Movie about to air so Eve is under some pressure to finish the case prior to that Big Night.
Eve and Roarke. What can I say? I adore them. I love that their relationship is not always perfect. They do have the odd row.
"Is she involved?"
"I don't think so. She's too much of a moron to have planned any of this, and if she'd paid to have it done, she have bollocksed it up when I was grilling her."
He smiled at her use of his slang."
Another good, solid read.
"Is it for home then, or the party?"
"Fuck it. Let's party."
February 26, 2013
In my opinion, CALCULATED IN DEATH is one of the best in the series. The premier of the movie based on one of Eve's cases is finally about to happen. Before Eve and Roarke and the gang can party, she must first solve the murder of a wealthy accountant. It's a good old fashion mystery that is exciting from beginning to end. In the background lurks the issue of Eve having to get all gussied up for a fancy party. It's true In Death fun!
September 19, 2017
What can I say that I haven’t already said before? It is all repetitive I know but the In Death Series is truly one of a kind. I have never read a series beyond say 7 or 8 books with such desire to read on. And now I find myself having finished 36. It is just crazy!
I adore Eve and who she is. I wish I could be as badass as she is. Throughout the series Eve evolves. Not drastically but enough to appreciate the change in her. She'd be the first one to tell you she never expected to be as happy as she was. In this one there is a part where she hits the ‘red carpet’. If you know Eve, you know she hates all the beauty rituals and fancy dresses. She sure is a beauty though.
And I adore Roarke. He is as close to perfect as you will get in a leading man. He is a sexy, sweet, driven and gorgeous man. I’ve said this from the beginning. I love how he loves Eve. He worships her. Not in that gooey overly sweet way. It is more of a just because kind of way.
I think the ‘team’ that Eve surrounds herself with is FANTASTIC! You have Peabody, Feeney, McNab, Mira, Baxter, Truehart, Morris, Nadine, Mavis and her family and last but certainly not least she has Summerset and Galahad. Of course Roarke is an important part of the team too. They too are evolving. They all have interesting personalities which makes for great story telling.
When it comes to the crime and investigations some of the stories are more intriguing than others. Some are more gut wrenching than others. But the writing is always fantastic even if things fall a bit flat from time to time. This one had the intrigue I have come to expect.
I did enjoy Calculated in Death more than the last one which I am happy about. The grittiness was back, the tense moments with Eve and her team where there and the Eve and Roarke moments that I love were spot on. While the steamy and sexy moments between them are my favs, this little exchange made me smile. To set it up, Eve had offended Galahad by coming home with the scent of another animal on her leg…..
I adore Eve and who she is. I wish I could be as badass as she is. Throughout the series Eve evolves. Not drastically but enough to appreciate the change in her. She'd be the first one to tell you she never expected to be as happy as she was. In this one there is a part where she hits the ‘red carpet’. If you know Eve, you know she hates all the beauty rituals and fancy dresses. She sure is a beauty though.
And I adore Roarke. He is as close to perfect as you will get in a leading man. He is a sexy, sweet, driven and gorgeous man. I’ve said this from the beginning. I love how he loves Eve. He worships her. Not in that gooey overly sweet way. It is more of a just because kind of way.
I think the ‘team’ that Eve surrounds herself with is FANTASTIC! You have Peabody, Feeney, McNab, Mira, Baxter, Truehart, Morris, Nadine, Mavis and her family and last but certainly not least she has Summerset and Galahad. Of course Roarke is an important part of the team too. They too are evolving. They all have interesting personalities which makes for great story telling.
When it comes to the crime and investigations some of the stories are more intriguing than others. Some are more gut wrenching than others. But the writing is always fantastic even if things fall a bit flat from time to time. This one had the intrigue I have come to expect.
I did enjoy Calculated in Death more than the last one which I am happy about. The grittiness was back, the tense moments with Eve and her team where there and the Eve and Roarke moments that I love were spot on. While the steamy and sexy moments between them are my favs, this little exchange made me smile. To set it up, Eve had offended Galahad by coming home with the scent of another animal on her leg…..
She broke off a piece of bacon and offered it to the cat who sat staring holes through her.
“For him, this is makeup sex. That’s all you get,” she said when Galahad inhaled the bacon then affectionately butted his head against her calf.
“Just an FYI, if you let another man rub up against you, and I sniff it out, you won’t be able to buy me off with bacon.” He handed her the syrup pitcher so she could drown her French toast.
“So noted.”
March 3, 2013
Another most excellent installment of my favorite series! Lots of interesting plot/case twists and turns and a really bad 'bad guy'...blah, blah, blah...lol...I know, what about Eve and Roarke, right?!!? Eve and Roarke are awesome!(; Ahhh, no spoilers, though. So many parts to love...just a few...Roarke makes a unbelievably sexy nurse, the work out scene, the whole freaking incredible ending, Roarke's boy-o comment about the knife...I could go on and on! Oh, and Eve's character is really growing and developing...not so much because she's beating the nightmares, but because she didn't beat the crap out of the guy who called her Roarke's get-out-of-jail-free card. Classic!
December 4, 2013
After a devoted wife and mother is murdered in what appears to be a botched mugging, Eve Dallas and her billionaire genius husband Roarke delve into the world of white-collar crime and financial intrigue. This is another solid but unexceptional effort in what was once a truly brilliant series. I feel like I harp on this every time I review a new In Death book, but the plots are so lackluster now. It truly depresses me because I've read the older books until the pages fell out.
So, delving in, Dallas and Peabody quickly ascertain that the murder was premeditated and the victim, an accountant working on several corporate audits, was killed to cover up financial crimes. We meet the victim's husband and in-laws when Dallas goes to break the news, but there's no information given about her to make her unique or three-dimensional, so I didn't care much about her character or resolving her murder. (Obviously I think all killers should be caught and no one deserves to die, etc, but I'm mentioning this because this lack of charisma was a recurring theme in this book.)
Dallas utilizes her husband's business acumen to help her determine which of the victim's clients had financial motives to want her dead. We're introduced to several vapid, obnoxious, rich characters, and one of them turns out to be the mastermind behind the plot. His hired muscle soon kills off two more financial players involved in his fraud scheme. There is no interrogation scene with the mastermind, so we don't even get the pleasure of seeing Dallas match wits with him. We do see her interrogate the hired muscle, a big bruiser type who is nothing but a killing machine. HE IS THE MOST BORING PERP IN ANY BOOK. Seriously. A rock or a cup would be more interesting than this guy.
So, the murder case is a bit of a wash, though there are a few good things, particularly in a scene with Peabody and a paranoid hacker. That leaves the development of Eve, Roarke, and the other supporting characters. Calculated in Death ties into what, in my opinion, was the weakest book in the series, Celebrity in Death. The big climactic scene takes place at the premiere of the film made from Nadine's book about the Icove case. Why we need to revisit the Celebrity in Death characters, none of whom I cared about and most of whom I could barely remember, is a puzzle to me. Let these characters die, please. There's a utterly ridiculous scene between Eve and the actress who played her in the film. It was stupid, completely out of left field, and very unrealistic.
The Eve/Roarke scenes were more of the same, little development, and the sex scenes were DULL. Oh, this hurts me. Remember the post-exercise sex in Immortal in Death? What about the sex in the garden in Purity in Death? Why can't we get an exciting sex scene in any of the new books? I don't know if Robb is shying away from good sex scenes given the new popularity of erotic fiction and the rise of authors like Sylvia Day and E.L. James, or if she's just out of ideas. These books are so mild sexually you don't even feel odd about sharing them with your grandma. And that's not a bad thing, I guess, but... I just miss what they used to be.
It hurts me to be so negative, but there it is.
So, delving in, Dallas and Peabody quickly ascertain that the murder was premeditated and the victim, an accountant working on several corporate audits, was killed to cover up financial crimes. We meet the victim's husband and in-laws when Dallas goes to break the news, but there's no information given about her to make her unique or three-dimensional, so I didn't care much about her character or resolving her murder. (Obviously I think all killers should be caught and no one deserves to die, etc, but I'm mentioning this because this lack of charisma was a recurring theme in this book.)
Dallas utilizes her husband's business acumen to help her determine which of the victim's clients had financial motives to want her dead. We're introduced to several vapid, obnoxious, rich characters, and one of them turns out to be the mastermind behind the plot. His hired muscle soon kills off two more financial players involved in his fraud scheme. There is no interrogation scene with the mastermind, so we don't even get the pleasure of seeing Dallas match wits with him. We do see her interrogate the hired muscle, a big bruiser type who is nothing but a killing machine. HE IS THE MOST BORING PERP IN ANY BOOK. Seriously. A rock or a cup would be more interesting than this guy.
So, the murder case is a bit of a wash, though there are a few good things, particularly in a scene with Peabody and a paranoid hacker. That leaves the development of Eve, Roarke, and the other supporting characters. Calculated in Death ties into what, in my opinion, was the weakest book in the series, Celebrity in Death. The big climactic scene takes place at the premiere of the film made from Nadine's book about the Icove case. Why we need to revisit the Celebrity in Death characters, none of whom I cared about and most of whom I could barely remember, is a puzzle to me. Let these characters die, please. There's a utterly ridiculous scene between Eve and the actress who played her in the film. It was stupid, completely out of left field, and very unrealistic.
The Eve/Roarke scenes were more of the same, little development, and the sex scenes were DULL. Oh, this hurts me. Remember the post-exercise sex in Immortal in Death? What about the sex in the garden in Purity in Death? Why can't we get an exciting sex scene in any of the new books? I don't know if Robb is shying away from good sex scenes given the new popularity of erotic fiction and the rise of authors like Sylvia Day and E.L. James, or if she's just out of ideas. These books are so mild sexually you don't even feel odd about sharing them with your grandma. And that's not a bad thing, I guess, but... I just miss what they used to be.
It hurts me to be so negative, but there it is.
own-unread
January 26, 2016But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman
Oh, it will be interesting! To see Eve in Roarke's business will be hilarious! :D
(and yes, I still want many monkey sex between them)
Oh, it will be interesting! To see Eve in Roarke's business will be hilarious! :D
(and yes, I still want many monkey sex between them)
April 13, 2017
4.5 stars
Eve, Roarke, Peabody and the rest of the gang are back to solve another case; this one involving the murder of a likable accountant. The book gets off to a slow start, primarily due to the story being bogged down with too many similar suspects to keep straight, but things pick up considerably about one quarter of the way through. In fact, I’m pleased to say that although this is the thirty-sixth novel in the In Death series it manages to sustain a fresh feel. The book contains many of the elements I love most from the early books in the series: Eve and Roarke’s connection and their witty banter; Roarke’s fiercely protective and nurturing side; and big departmental ops, including Eve and Peabody used as decoys. I haven’t skipped a book yet and as long as J.D. Robb keeps cranking them out, I’ll keep reading.
Eve, Roarke, Peabody and the rest of the gang are back to solve another case; this one involving the murder of a likable accountant. The book gets off to a slow start, primarily due to the story being bogged down with too many similar suspects to keep straight, but things pick up considerably about one quarter of the way through. In fact, I’m pleased to say that although this is the thirty-sixth novel in the In Death series it manages to sustain a fresh feel. The book contains many of the elements I love most from the early books in the series: Eve and Roarke’s connection and their witty banter; Roarke’s fiercely protective and nurturing side; and big departmental ops, including Eve and Peabody used as decoys. I haven’t skipped a book yet and as long as J.D. Robb keeps cranking them out, I’ll keep reading.
March 3, 2013
It’s the middle of winter and you are tired of looking at brown grass, your boots are getting far to scuffed and you are just tired of opening the coat closet doors. “What I need”, you say to yourself,” is a day at the beach”. A tropical getaway and a good stiff drink.
Calculated in Death has none of that. But as far as the read, it’s all that. Oh how I missed you guys! I gave Calculated in Death 5 stars. Yes 5 stars just because it was a breath of fresh air. Stay with me here folks. Cause ya might think me crazy.
The relationship with Eve and Peabody is pure gold in this installment. Long gone is the mentor/student relationship. True friendship has evolved. The banter between these two is simply hilarious.
Eve and Roarke = perfection. The yummy conversation over the current case is lovable and smart. They have never been better. With Eve’s past becoming just that, A thing of the past, they are really bonding and hitting a rhythm.
The gang’s all here. We visit the entire cast of characters in this one and get a glimpse of what is going on with each one. I like it when authors do that. It keeps me invested with my peeps. Summerset and Galahad are my favs.
It really was a day at the beach read. A warm fuzzy on a cold day. Time spent with people you love. The action wasn’t as prominent as it usually is. There was no emotional turmoil and anger issue Eve is famous for. Even the droids seemed to be on their best behavior.
I was expecting a thrilling ride and instead and left with a warm breeze wrapped around me. I can almost smell suntan lotion and coconuts. Thanks J.D. for the mini vaca.
T~
UPDATE!!2/26/2013
Starting today! Review for Calculated In Death to come!
http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/
This is one of the longest book series I have read and one of my favorites. I began my journey with Eve Dallas a few years ago with Naked in Death. Set in futuristic New York City, homicide detective Eve Dallas works cases, busts balls and battles demons from her past; a woman in a male-heavy career field very close to burning out. Eve grew up in the foster care system, going from home to home. Once she became of age, off to the police academy she went. A need for control and a need to have order, rules, and morals was the push.
In book one Eve meets Roarke. Life as she knows it over the next 30+ books will completely change. Although each book is a new case, the evolution of Eve is a heart-wrenching, fist-pumping journey. We see hard edges soften, connections form and a new prospective of those rules, order and morals taking shape. Not everything is black and white. There is a lot of grey.
The biggest thread through out J.D’s In Death series is that love is great, but it damn sure isn’t easy. It takes work. I love seeing Eve “get it”, being that she has no point of reference of how love works. Her complete and utter lack of understanding basic emotions and relationships compared to being able to get into the mind of a killer is often funny. Not to mention her nonexistent fashion sense! LOL! Roarke has the patience of a saint, a hot, rich, sexy Irish saint that is! Eve learns how to be a friend and that having people in her life can be a good thing. With the help of Dr. Mira, Eve peels back the memories within her dreams to confront a past that her mind wants to reject during her waking hours. This journey is an ongoing back story throughout the series. I found myself championing her every step whispering out loud “you’ll be okay”. Silly, I know. But that’s what a good series does.
The secondary characters I simply LOVE. Peabody, Summerset (LOL), McNab, Feeny and Galahad. And who the hell is the candy thief? They are rich characters written with much humor and sarcasm. Always a plus in my book.
Now I said before that they live in ‘futuristic New York' but not too much. The world is still the same, but medicine has grown leaps and bounds,and travel to space is an everyday occurrence. Real coffee is limited and an extreme luxury. If that’s what the future holds I am in major trouble, ya’ll! Once Roarke found Eve's coffee weakness it was exploited :), but the best thing is a lovely machine that all you have to do is stock it with food and it cooks EVERYTHING!!! Long work day? No problem, I got dinner in five!
Now many know that J.D. Robb is actually Nora Roberts, but this series is NOTHING like the other Nora books I have read. They are gritty, hard, and edgy compared to the more sweet and romantic books that Nora is known for. The next book to come is Calculated In Death (In Death #36) which is to be released February 26, 2013.
P.S. I couldn't forget the button.....sigh :)
T~
Calculated in Death has none of that. But as far as the read, it’s all that. Oh how I missed you guys! I gave Calculated in Death 5 stars. Yes 5 stars just because it was a breath of fresh air. Stay with me here folks. Cause ya might think me crazy.
The relationship with Eve and Peabody is pure gold in this installment. Long gone is the mentor/student relationship. True friendship has evolved. The banter between these two is simply hilarious.
Eve and Roarke = perfection. The yummy conversation over the current case is lovable and smart. They have never been better. With Eve’s past becoming just that, A thing of the past, they are really bonding and hitting a rhythm.
The gang’s all here. We visit the entire cast of characters in this one and get a glimpse of what is going on with each one. I like it when authors do that. It keeps me invested with my peeps. Summerset and Galahad are my favs.
It really was a day at the beach read. A warm fuzzy on a cold day. Time spent with people you love. The action wasn’t as prominent as it usually is. There was no emotional turmoil and anger issue Eve is famous for. Even the droids seemed to be on their best behavior.
I was expecting a thrilling ride and instead and left with a warm breeze wrapped around me. I can almost smell suntan lotion and coconuts. Thanks J.D. for the mini vaca.
T~
UPDATE!!2/26/2013
Starting today! Review for Calculated In Death to come!
http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/
This is one of the longest book series I have read and one of my favorites. I began my journey with Eve Dallas a few years ago with Naked in Death. Set in futuristic New York City, homicide detective Eve Dallas works cases, busts balls and battles demons from her past; a woman in a male-heavy career field very close to burning out. Eve grew up in the foster care system, going from home to home. Once she became of age, off to the police academy she went. A need for control and a need to have order, rules, and morals was the push.
In book one Eve meets Roarke. Life as she knows it over the next 30+ books will completely change. Although each book is a new case, the evolution of Eve is a heart-wrenching, fist-pumping journey. We see hard edges soften, connections form and a new prospective of those rules, order and morals taking shape. Not everything is black and white. There is a lot of grey.
The biggest thread through out J.D’s In Death series is that love is great, but it damn sure isn’t easy. It takes work. I love seeing Eve “get it”, being that she has no point of reference of how love works. Her complete and utter lack of understanding basic emotions and relationships compared to being able to get into the mind of a killer is often funny. Not to mention her nonexistent fashion sense! LOL! Roarke has the patience of a saint, a hot, rich, sexy Irish saint that is! Eve learns how to be a friend and that having people in her life can be a good thing. With the help of Dr. Mira, Eve peels back the memories within her dreams to confront a past that her mind wants to reject during her waking hours. This journey is an ongoing back story throughout the series. I found myself championing her every step whispering out loud “you’ll be okay”. Silly, I know. But that’s what a good series does.
The secondary characters I simply LOVE. Peabody, Summerset (LOL), McNab, Feeny and Galahad. And who the hell is the candy thief? They are rich characters written with much humor and sarcasm. Always a plus in my book.
Now I said before that they live in ‘futuristic New York' but not too much. The world is still the same, but medicine has grown leaps and bounds,and travel to space is an everyday occurrence. Real coffee is limited and an extreme luxury. If that’s what the future holds I am in major trouble, ya’ll! Once Roarke found Eve's coffee weakness it was exploited :), but the best thing is a lovely machine that all you have to do is stock it with food and it cooks EVERYTHING!!! Long work day? No problem, I got dinner in five!
Now many know that J.D. Robb is actually Nora Roberts, but this series is NOTHING like the other Nora books I have read. They are gritty, hard, and edgy compared to the more sweet and romantic books that Nora is known for. The next book to come is Calculated In Death (In Death #36) which is to be released February 26, 2013.
P.S. I couldn't forget the button.....sigh :)
T~
February 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this 36th book in J.D. Robb's "In Death" series!
November 27, 2022
Reread..... original review stands as I once again skimmed and could not for the life of me keep all the players straight in this one
spoilers ahead
An innocent accountant is murdered and her loving family shattered as greedy men seek to cover up their misdeeds. Eve leaves the streets to head into the world of business to track a killer who doesn't intend to stop until all evidence of their secrets are destroyed
I enjoyed the first half but I skimmed a bit in the latter, still a good read a and solid series however
spoilers ahead
An innocent accountant is murdered and her loving family shattered as greedy men seek to cover up their misdeeds. Eve leaves the streets to head into the world of business to track a killer who doesn't intend to stop until all evidence of their secrets are destroyed
I enjoyed the first half but I skimmed a bit in the latter, still a good read a and solid series however
October 26, 2015
I’m a big Nora Roberts fan, and out of all the series she’s written—I like the books she’s produced under her pseudonym of J.D. Robb the best. Set about fifty years into the future, and starring the outstanding characters of murder cop Eve Dallas and her husband/lover multi-billionaire Roarke, the series now spans over 30 volumes. And I have read every one of them at least 4 times, definitely putting me into the category of “BIG” fan.
Calculated in Death is the 36th entry into the JD Robb series. I didn’t think I would ever say this about one of the Eve/Roarke books, but this review will be short and to the point because I didn’t care for the book. Which, if you read the reviews on Kindle, puts me in the minority.
The plot was good. It moved along, it was well thought out and very much in the vein of the previous books. No complaints there. All the characters were present-- Eve and Roarke, Peabody and McNab, Eve’s squad, Dr. Mira and so on. But I had to literally plow through this book. It took me days to read it—and believe me, it never takes me days to read a book in this series. It also wasn’t hard to figure out why.
In all the years I’ve been reading, I’ve never seen a writing style change so drastically in a single book. The dialogue was off. As one example, one character asked another if they wanted to come in, and the character responded “I would, yes.”—a cadence very typical of Roarke but was said by Eve. She then went into the home of someone on the initial, possible suspect list and proceeded to sit down in the living room and discuss the case and the other suspects with this person. Eve doesn’t do that.
But mostly—Eve didn’t have that innate femininity that she always has in the books—even when she’s at her best as a kick-ass murder cop, and Roarke didn’t have that dark, masculine quality—he was (gasp) kind of flat in this book. Because the change in writing style was so dramatic, it made the book difficult to read because I kept expecting the JD Robb I was used to.
So—if you are a JD Robb fan, and I had to pick one book out of the series to tell you to take a pass on—this one would be it, with apologies to Nora Roberts.. because I really do love her books.-- Vicki
Calculated in Death is the 36th entry into the JD Robb series. I didn’t think I would ever say this about one of the Eve/Roarke books, but this review will be short and to the point because I didn’t care for the book. Which, if you read the reviews on Kindle, puts me in the minority.
The plot was good. It moved along, it was well thought out and very much in the vein of the previous books. No complaints there. All the characters were present-- Eve and Roarke, Peabody and McNab, Eve’s squad, Dr. Mira and so on. But I had to literally plow through this book. It took me days to read it—and believe me, it never takes me days to read a book in this series. It also wasn’t hard to figure out why.
In all the years I’ve been reading, I’ve never seen a writing style change so drastically in a single book. The dialogue was off. As one example, one character asked another if they wanted to come in, and the character responded “I would, yes.”—a cadence very typical of Roarke but was said by Eve. She then went into the home of someone on the initial, possible suspect list and proceeded to sit down in the living room and discuss the case and the other suspects with this person. Eve doesn’t do that.
But mostly—Eve didn’t have that innate femininity that she always has in the books—even when she’s at her best as a kick-ass murder cop, and Roarke didn’t have that dark, masculine quality—he was (gasp) kind of flat in this book. Because the change in writing style was so dramatic, it made the book difficult to read because I kept expecting the JD Robb I was used to.
So—if you are a JD Robb fan, and I had to pick one book out of the series to tell you to take a pass on—this one would be it, with apologies to Nora Roberts.. because I really do love her books.-- Vicki
September 1, 2019
Another great In Death book - lots of suspects, very good story line - some really good banter between the main characters.
I would like to know who edits these books though - 2 things jumped right off the page at me - "Harvo" was called "Harpo" again and Peabody was refered to as "Officer" Peabody when she was introduced to one of the interviewees. Blatant errors!
It's still a very good read and for those who think the book is anticlimatic, well everything after NY2D is anticlimatic!
5 stars and worth every one of them in my opinion.
From the blurb: On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better.
A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn't seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.
But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait. . . .
I would like to know who edits these books though - 2 things jumped right off the page at me - "Harvo" was called "Harpo" again and Peabody was refered to as "Officer" Peabody when she was introduced to one of the interviewees. Blatant errors!
It's still a very good read and for those who think the book is anticlimatic, well everything after NY2D is anticlimatic!
5 stars and worth every one of them in my opinion.
From the blurb: On Manhattan's Upper East Side a woman lies dead at the bottom of the stairs, stripped of all her valuables. Most cops might call it a mugging gone wrong, but Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows better.
A well-off accountant and a beloved wife and mother, Marta Dickenson doesn't seem the type to be on anyone's hit list. But when Eve and her partner, Peabody, find blood inside the building, the lieutenant knows Marta's murder was the work of a killer who's trained, but not professional or smart enough to remove all the evidence.
But when someone steals the files out of Marta's office, Eve must immerse herself in her billionaire husband Roarke's world of big business to figure out who's cruel and callous enough to hire a hit on an innocent woman. And as the killer's violent streak begins to escalate, Eve knows she has to draw him out, even if it means using herself as bait. . . .
August 31, 2019
From my blog:
The Good: In Death books are always good for giving the reader a good and complicated crime to solve. Not all of the books are a whodunit but this one was. I was guessing who the killer(s) was clear up until the reveal. Then again, I never figure that out in books, TV, or movies for that matter. Robb is good at giving the reader more than just a crime story to read. She weaves the character's personalities and relationships with each other throughout the story.
The Bad: I didn't like the ending. Why can't Robb let us celebrate a party or holiday or birthday with the characters of the story instead of writing, writing, writing about the event throughout and then ending the book before the event? Grrr! This is a serious pet peeve of mine about this series and this author. Honestly, I Googled, "Does Nora Roberts use a ghost writer" after reading this book because it just wasn't up to par. I felt like the parts that were the "isms" of the characters, i.e. character quirks and traditions of this series and the people in it, were put into the story for form. This is the 36th installment of the series and I suppose after that many books, it becomes mindless routine. I wish I could have loved this installment more.
Oh. And from what I could find, J.D. Robb does write all of the In Death books. Of course, she has enough money and clout she could probably keep it a secret if she did use a ghost writer. I like to think she doesn't.
The Good: In Death books are always good for giving the reader a good and complicated crime to solve. Not all of the books are a whodunit but this one was. I was guessing who the killer(s) was clear up until the reveal. Then again, I never figure that out in books, TV, or movies for that matter. Robb is good at giving the reader more than just a crime story to read. She weaves the character's personalities and relationships with each other throughout the story.
The Bad: I didn't like the ending. Why can't Robb let us celebrate a party or holiday or birthday with the characters of the story instead of writing, writing, writing about the event throughout and then ending the book before the event? Grrr! This is a serious pet peeve of mine about this series and this author. Honestly, I Googled, "Does Nora Roberts use a ghost writer" after reading this book because it just wasn't up to par. I felt like the parts that were the "isms" of the characters, i.e. character quirks and traditions of this series and the people in it, were put into the story for form. This is the 36th installment of the series and I suppose after that many books, it becomes mindless routine. I wish I could have loved this installment more.
Oh. And from what I could find, J.D. Robb does write all of the In Death books. Of course, she has enough money and clout she could probably keep it a secret if she did use a ghost writer. I like to think she doesn't.
August 27, 2024
There were a lot of douchebag bro-types in this book that really needed a beatdown, and I'm sad they didn't get it. The one that called Eve "Roarke's get-out-of-jail-free card" really needed a kick in the junk... or, probably more satisfying, for Roarke to destroy that douche-bro's company. Like, leave it a financial ruin.
But it was, as always, a fun one. And we get to end with the big film premiere of The Icove Agenda, which was also a nice little callback to those characters.
But it was, as always, a fun one. And we get to end with the big film premiere of The Icove Agenda, which was also a nice little callback to those characters.
September 10, 2017
This series hasn't let me down yet and I believe never will. After 36 books, I still want more of Eve's ass kicking. Roarke's too perfect beyond words but I wouldn't mind having him for a night or two *shameful grin* And the rest of the gang? They all make this series worth so much reading. I feel like we are family already. *my sentimentality is showing*
Anyhoo, we have calculated killings in this one. According to Eve, stupid but calculated. I have to admit, I am not really a fan of numbers because I am terrible at it. They talked about auditing in companies and number crunchers. My eyes just about glazed with all that info and also the persons of interests were more than a few (some of them assholes) I had to backtrack and ask myself "who is he/she again?" But no worries, it did not deter from the murders and mystery.
And we get to say they attended the premiere for their Icove movie. It was magalicious :)
Anyhoo, we have calculated killings in this one. According to Eve, stupid but calculated. I have to admit, I am not really a fan of numbers because I am terrible at it. They talked about auditing in companies and number crunchers. My eyes just about glazed with all that info and also the persons of interests were more than a few (some of them assholes) I had to backtrack and ask myself "who is he/she again?" But no worries, it did not deter from the murders and mystery.
And we get to say they attended the premiere for their Icove movie. It was magalicious :)
February 5, 2018
2.5 stars
This was the most boring In Death book I've ever read. I get that this is book 36 in a series, and I should probably be grateful that the vast majority of the books have not been like this one, but this was BORING. Even Eve and Roarke were boring in this one. I hope the next one is significantly better.
This was the most boring In Death book I've ever read. I get that this is book 36 in a series, and I should probably be grateful that the vast majority of the books have not been like this one, but this was BORING. Even Eve and Roarke were boring in this one. I hope the next one is significantly better.
September 1, 2017
Another fantastic idea!
May 11, 2022
4 1/2 to 5 stars
November 16, 2022
3,5 / 5
October 3, 2019
I really liked the ending set piece of this one, and thought the whodunnit was one of the better ones in the series
February 7, 2020
This series is my comfort read. When I don't feel like reading and I feel that slump is approaching, I am reading a book from this series. Generally this series keeps a nice level. Although of course there are better and worse books in it. This book is a bit weaker in my opinion. Or maybe I wasn't in the mood after all.
Eve is involved in solving the mystery of death of an accountant who audited large companies. It is known from the beginning that the motive lies in inconsistencies in the accounts of one of the companies and inept attempts to hide financial fraud. And who will check the bills of large companies better than multimillionaire Roarke. In the background we have a great premiere of the film based on Nadine’s book about the Icove case.
Unfortunately, something is missing in this story. I'm not even sure exactly what. Maybe some mystery. Indeed, you know from the very beginning that Marta was killed because of audits. You immediately get to know the main suspects, and Eve quickly selects the man who ordered the murders. The only thing is to prove him guilty and catch the killer. And a lot is known about the killer himself, as well as about other people who are probably involved in the scam. As I said, not enough mysteries and unknowns. As a reader, you know a little too much to fully enjoy this story.
It all lacks some charm always present in this series. Maybe the point is that there is a bit too little Roarke throughout the whole story. But let’s be honest, there is never enough of Roarke, LOL! He appears in the book and helps Eve, but there is no really important role for him. I don't know, something is missing.
Which doesn't mean that I didn't like the book. This is a good story. And I think it also helped me beat my slump. But it's definitely not one of the best books in this series.
Eve is involved in solving the mystery of death of an accountant who audited large companies. It is known from the beginning that the motive lies in inconsistencies in the accounts of one of the companies and inept attempts to hide financial fraud. And who will check the bills of large companies better than multimillionaire Roarke. In the background we have a great premiere of the film based on Nadine’s book about the Icove case.
Unfortunately, something is missing in this story. I'm not even sure exactly what. Maybe some mystery. Indeed, you know from the very beginning that Marta was killed because of audits. You immediately get to know the main suspects, and Eve quickly selects the man who ordered the murders. The only thing is to prove him guilty and catch the killer. And a lot is known about the killer himself, as well as about other people who are probably involved in the scam. As I said, not enough mysteries and unknowns. As a reader, you know a little too much to fully enjoy this story.
It all lacks some charm always present in this series. Maybe the point is that there is a bit too little Roarke throughout the whole story. But let’s be honest, there is never enough of Roarke, LOL! He appears in the book and helps Eve, but there is no really important role for him. I don't know, something is missing.
Which doesn't mean that I didn't like the book. This is a good story. And I think it also helped me beat my slump. But it's definitely not one of the best books in this series.
April 5, 2013
Quick review:
Cover: Fitting
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Steamy
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: Back to basics with Dallas and the crew
Characters: Well written
Plot: Blue collar crime going murderous
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Roarke
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This series has been a stable for me. The earlier books were great and they still continue now to be good. However, before Dallas used to say no to kids ever. I got the sense in this book that things may change. Anyway, it was a solid read.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Audio Review
Susan Ericksen is excellent as usual. I’m not sure I’d listen to this series if not for her.
Cover: Fitting
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Steamy
Thumbs Up: 4
Overall: Back to basics with Dallas and the crew
Characters: Well written
Plot: Blue collar crime going murderous
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Roarke
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
This series has been a stable for me. The earlier books were great and they still continue now to be good. However, before Dallas used to say no to kids ever. I got the sense in this book that things may change. Anyway, it was a solid read.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Audio Review
Susan Ericksen is excellent as usual. I’m not sure I’d listen to this series if not for her.
March 12, 2013
There really isn't anything to say about this book. After so many of these In Death books, it is like visiting old friends. I do enjoy my now twice yearly visits, and as soon as one comes to an end, I start looking forward to the next one.
Almost everyone was here. There was a couple missing, but hopefully they will turn up next time.
The storyline was what I expected. Well written and fast. There is never enough Roarke for me, but I did enjoy him playing nurse in this one.
Now it is time for me to start looking forward to September.
Almost everyone was here. There was a couple missing, but hopefully they will turn up next time.
The storyline was what I expected. Well written and fast. There is never enough Roarke for me, but I did enjoy him playing nurse in this one.
Now it is time for me to start looking forward to September.
September 14, 2020
I have come to a realization. I never want this series to end. I'm not ready yet. Even when it's an okay read, even then, it is better than anything I've read.
So, the case in this one is more of a corporate killing. Which if you ask me, didn't exactly tickle my fancy. But like I said, even then, it was such a great read.
*sigh* Let me bask in the magnificent of Roarke and Eve. And Peabody and the rest.
So, the case in this one is more of a corporate killing. Which if you ask me, didn't exactly tickle my fancy. But like I said, even then, it was such a great read.
*sigh* Let me bask in the magnificent of Roarke and Eve. And Peabody and the rest.
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