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Fatal #7
Fatal Jeopardy
Washington, D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, U.S. Senator Nick Cappuano, have been looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving with their son. But any thoughts of a restful holiday are dashed when Sam and Nick return home to a gruesome scene: Sam's seventeen-year-old niece Brooke, barely conscious and covered in blood on their front stoop.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2014
1008 people are currently reading
1555 people want to read
About the author
Marie Force
205 books8,397 followersMarie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, romantic suspense and erotic romance. Her series include Gansett Island, Fatal, Treading Water, Butler Vermont and Quantum.
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at [email protected].
Her books have sold more than 12 million copies worldwide, have been translated into more than a dozen languages and have appeared on the New York Times bestseller more than 30 times. She is also a USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller, as well as a Speigel bestseller in Germany.
Her goals in life are simple—to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.
Join Marie’s mailing list on her website at marieforce.com for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area. Follow her on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/MarieForceAuthor and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/marieforceauthor/. Contact Marie at [email protected].
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews
May 12, 2024
2024 Update
I listened to the book this time and the narration elevates the story. My comments stand with one exception. Rather than Sam skirting fine lines I felt she clearly stepped over them, rather arrogantly. I lowered my rating a half star as a consequence, particularly because she didn’t seem to have any ethical concerns about it. Otherwise, I was completely engaged. 4.5 stars
2015 Review
Sam and Nick return home late one evening to find her niece, Brooke, naked, wrapped in a sheet, bruised, covered in blood and unconscious on their doorstep. She was supposed to be at the school for troubled girls in Richmond. As Sam tries to figure out what happened to her, it's soon clear that Brooke was somehow connected with a disturbing homicide at the home of one of her teenaged friends.
This was a tough, heartbreaking story, at times hard for me to take in. It's well done and highlights some of the troubling issues our teens face today. Sam's involvement in the investigation skirted that fine line between acceptable and conflicting interests and I'm not sure she always stayed on the right side of it.
While there is other drama going on, Brooke's situation was the one that had me riveted. The ending was exciting with lots of unanswered questions. And, Nick and Sam have to make some life altering decisions. Still loving this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
I listened to the book this time and the narration elevates the story. My comments stand with one exception. Rather than Sam skirting fine lines I felt she clearly stepped over them, rather arrogantly. I lowered my rating a half star as a consequence, particularly because she didn’t seem to have any ethical concerns about it. Otherwise, I was completely engaged. 4.5 stars
2015 Review
Sam and Nick return home late one evening to find her niece, Brooke, naked, wrapped in a sheet, bruised, covered in blood and unconscious on their doorstep. She was supposed to be at the school for troubled girls in Richmond. As Sam tries to figure out what happened to her, it's soon clear that Brooke was somehow connected with a disturbing homicide at the home of one of her teenaged friends.
This was a tough, heartbreaking story, at times hard for me to take in. It's well done and highlights some of the troubling issues our teens face today. Sam's involvement in the investigation skirted that fine line between acceptable and conflicting interests and I'm not sure she always stayed on the right side of it.
While there is other drama going on, Brooke's situation was the one that had me riveted. The ending was exciting with lots of unanswered questions. And, Nick and Sam have to make some life altering decisions. Still loving this series.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
April 13, 2018
3.5 stars.
You’ve still got a way with words, Senator.”
You’ve still got a way with words, Senator.”
April 22, 2014
3.75
I am a bit behind on reviews so this might be quick. Book 7 in the Fatal series but for me it was lacking something and I do not know what. Yeah, it was kind of a gritty subject but I can usually handle that. Yeah, I love Sam and Nick.
Loved seeing her Dad again and all her work colleagues. Loved her interactions with Avery Hill. I know nothing will ever happen between them and I don’t want anything to happen but love Nick’s jealous reaction to him. Loved catching up with Scotty.
Nick’s speech in the book…. Sorry, BUT to me that is sort of nauseating. Maybe because I am a non-US citizen but it made me gag.
Maybe, the good citizens of the U.S of A like to hear their politicians speak like that but speaking from an Irish POV, it does nothing for me. Just leave it to reality. I don’t want to hear it or read about it in my books. Made Nick come across as egotistical and pompus and he is neither. I could be completely off the beaten track with my comment but it is my personal opinion.
Look forward to reading more of this series…..
I am a bit behind on reviews so this might be quick. Book 7 in the Fatal series but for me it was lacking something and I do not know what. Yeah, it was kind of a gritty subject but I can usually handle that. Yeah, I love Sam and Nick.
Loved seeing her Dad again and all her work colleagues. Loved her interactions with Avery Hill. I know nothing will ever happen between them and I don’t want anything to happen but love Nick’s jealous reaction to him. Loved catching up with Scotty.
Nick’s speech in the book…. Sorry, BUT to me that is sort of nauseating. Maybe because I am a non-US citizen but it made me gag.
”… we once again show the world why we are the greatest nation on earth.”
Maybe, the good citizens of the U.S of A like to hear their politicians speak like that but speaking from an Irish POV, it does nothing for me. Just leave it to reality. I don’t want to hear it or read about it in my books. Made Nick come across as egotistical and pompus and he is neither. I could be completely off the beaten track with my comment but it is my personal opinion.
Look forward to reading more of this series…..
August 8, 2021
I love Marie Force because she has given me LT. Sam Holland and Senator Nick Cappuano, one of my favorite all-time romantic couples! This series just keeps getting better and better with each book. Their deep love is the core of the story with Sam’s escapades in the police department causing the calmer, more sedate Nick much concern. Their banter is sexy and humorous, and I melt when Nick tells Sam how much she means to him which he does about every other page! Seriously, these two are hot, hot, hot!
There are plenty of other repeating characters in each book to keep the story interesting including family members , co-workers , and an obsessive ex-husband just to name a few. I won’t go into the plot of this book except to say it was explosive as usual. I wasn't sure if I was happy or not with the ending as I am now worried how this big change is going to affect their relationship, but I trust the author to lead them where they need to go.
Ms. Force has said she will keep writing about Sam and Nick as long as her fans want to read about them. Of course, we will! I, for one, would be happy to read about them until they are old and gray – I suspect they will still be madly in love and living a crazy life. Here’s hoping for a least a few more books in the series!
There are plenty of other repeating characters in each book to keep the story interesting including family members , co-workers , and an obsessive ex-husband just to name a few. I won’t go into the plot of this book except to say it was explosive as usual. I wasn't sure if I was happy or not with the ending as I am now worried how this big change is going to affect their relationship, but I trust the author to lead them where they need to go.
Ms. Force has said she will keep writing about Sam and Nick as long as her fans want to read about them. Of course, we will! I, for one, would be happy to read about them until they are old and gray – I suspect they will still be madly in love and living a crazy life. Here’s hoping for a least a few more books in the series!
June 5, 2024
Sam and Nick wanted to have some time for themselves and their adopted son Scotty for the Thanksgiving holiday. Those plans are cancelled when they arrive home to find Sam's niece Brooke lying unconscious and bloody on their doorstep. As Sam and Nick wait at the hospital with the family, she gets a call about a teen party where six teenagers were stabbed to death. When Sam learns that some of these teens were friends of Brooke, she worries that Brooke may be involved in that murder case.
This book hooked me from the first chapter. Sam is torn between finding out what happened to her niece, and wanting to work on the teen murder case to make sure Brooke isn't implicated in it. The story jumps back and forth between both investigations. I had no idea who was behind the murders and never did take a guess.
On the home front, Sam is worried about her father's upcoming surgery. On top of that, Nick is upset that their holiday plans were cancelled. I didn't mind him being a little bent out of shape about that; but I am sick of his jealousy over FBI Agent Avery Hill. He acts like Sam is going to dump him and start chasing Hill, which is ridiculous. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This book hooked me from the first chapter. Sam is torn between finding out what happened to her niece, and wanting to work on the teen murder case to make sure Brooke isn't implicated in it. The story jumps back and forth between both investigations. I had no idea who was behind the murders and never did take a guess.
On the home front, Sam is worried about her father's upcoming surgery. On top of that, Nick is upset that their holiday plans were cancelled. I didn't mind him being a little bent out of shape about that; but I am sick of his jealousy over FBI Agent Avery Hill. He acts like Sam is going to dump him and start chasing Hill, which is ridiculous. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
November 21, 2020
At first the book (to me) started out a bit fluffy and I thought "oh no, not again (like Fatal Mistake, which I liked but wasn't the series I like), then WHAM right into a great murder mystery involving teens unsupervised - what is wrong with parents! A house party that wasn't supposed to be and all hell, literally breaks loose. Drugs and booze never mix and this is proof perfect in this book. And the first clue that something terrible has happened is dumped on Sam & Nick's doorstep.
I missed spending time with Sam & Nick - so this was a good book to get reacquainted! A lot of emotions running in this book - good, sad, and bad - with always that underlying "what's up with that" insuring more Fatal books, which pleases me tremendously.
So, thank you Marie Force for a great entertaining police procedural book!
From the blurb: Washington, D.C., Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, U.S. Senator Nick Cappuano, have been looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving with their son. But any thoughts of a restful holiday are dashed when Sam and Nick return home to a gruesome scene: Sam's seventeen-year-old niece Brooke, barely conscious and covered in blood on their front stoop.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
2 thumbs up and 5 stars
I missed spending time with Sam & Nick - so this was a good book to get reacquainted! A lot of emotions running in this book - good, sad, and bad - with always that underlying "what's up with that" insuring more Fatal books, which pleases me tremendously.
So, thank you Marie Force for a great entertaining police procedural book!
From the blurb: Washington, D.C., Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, U.S. Senator Nick Cappuano, have been looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving with their son. But any thoughts of a restful holiday are dashed when Sam and Nick return home to a gruesome scene: Sam's seventeen-year-old niece Brooke, barely conscious and covered in blood on their front stoop.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
2 thumbs up and 5 stars
March 24, 2014
She's done it again! As always, Marie Force writes a great story. Fatal Jeopardy is Book Seven in her “Fatal Series” and it’s every bit as good as all the others. No slowing the momentum either – this series just keeps getting stronger and even more addictive with each new installment.
Another well-plotted and brand new criminal investigation faces Sam and the DC police department. In the latest juicy crime, there are blurred lines, accelerated tensions and lots of hurdles to jump over (both on the job and off) before Sam, Nick, and the gang right the wrongdoings. Crime has no boundaries and this one hits hard close to home base when it takes on a more personal feeling for Sam and her family. Of course Nick and Sam never fail to add their own touches of spice and pizzazz. I don’t want to give away plot details because a vital part to the full package of enjoyment is going in blind and never knowing what to expect.
A new “Fatal” book always brings with it lots of fun to read moments from start to finish. No two are alike – each carries its own unique and individually defined storyline. More than anything, I am always charmed and amazed by the wit, intelligence, and trademark humor that Marie Force infuses into the dialogue and interaction between her characters with each new book. It makes reading her books a special treat. This one is sure to be a hit with readers.
And, as always, I had a fantastic time reading it!
Another well-plotted and brand new criminal investigation faces Sam and the DC police department. In the latest juicy crime, there are blurred lines, accelerated tensions and lots of hurdles to jump over (both on the job and off) before Sam, Nick, and the gang right the wrongdoings. Crime has no boundaries and this one hits hard close to home base when it takes on a more personal feeling for Sam and her family. Of course Nick and Sam never fail to add their own touches of spice and pizzazz. I don’t want to give away plot details because a vital part to the full package of enjoyment is going in blind and never knowing what to expect.
A new “Fatal” book always brings with it lots of fun to read moments from start to finish. No two are alike – each carries its own unique and individually defined storyline. More than anything, I am always charmed and amazed by the wit, intelligence, and trademark humor that Marie Force infuses into the dialogue and interaction between her characters with each new book. It makes reading her books a special treat. This one is sure to be a hit with readers.
And, as always, I had a fantastic time reading it!
May 28, 2024
Life is not ever going to be the easy for this duo. I have mixed feelings about them, but one thing I know they are together no matter what happens to them. Nick gets a little prissy about his plans going off the rails and Sam allows him is moment then gets down to work with her team to solve the case. This is the best book in the series so far.
Sam and Nick are planning on a nice relaxing Thanksgiving week vacation with adopted son, Scotty. But that is not meant to be when Sam's niece, 17-year-old Brooke, is left on her doorstop beaten and nude wrapped only in a bloody sheet. Shortly after getting her to the hospital word of a vicious attack on other high school kids comes in. Sam is afraid that attack could have something to do with Brooke. Now their long-planned vacation is in ruins as Sam chases the murderer while trying to protect Brooke. With Sam's father facing dangerous surgery, Nick facing a tough decision and one of her team fighting for his life, Sam needs all the strength she can find.
Sam and Nick are planning on a nice relaxing Thanksgiving week vacation with adopted son, Scotty. But that is not meant to be when Sam's niece, 17-year-old Brooke, is left on her doorstop beaten and nude wrapped only in a bloody sheet. Shortly after getting her to the hospital word of a vicious attack on other high school kids comes in. Sam is afraid that attack could have something to do with Brooke. Now their long-planned vacation is in ruins as Sam chases the murderer while trying to protect Brooke. With Sam's father facing dangerous surgery, Nick facing a tough decision and one of her team fighting for his life, Sam needs all the strength she can find.
April 17, 2014
Every time I read a book of this series, I get soooo jealous!!! I want Nick Cappuano!!! He's absolutely FANTASTIC!!! As in out of your mind FANTASTIC!!! He's sooo perfect that I'm starting hating him!
OK, OK, I know... I'll stop salivating!
This is another great installment with a great story.
Sam and Nick are their usual crazy in-love happy. They're really the epitone of a perfect marriage. They're so perfect that through the whole book I was expecting something will happen to ruin all that perfection.
The fun thing is that, even if I understood that all that perfection is impossible, I didn't irked me. It was just so well done that I have come to expect it, to count on it.
I enjoyed all the secondary characters too and I kept wishing that the real political world could be like one described here. Where the politicians are honest and family oriented and not sharks ready to devour everybody. Wouldn't it be wonderful?! I'm sure then the world peace could be achieved! :)
I will continue reading this series and hoping Nick and Sam are going to have a child of their own!
OK, OK, I know... I'll stop salivating!
This is another great installment with a great story.
Sam and Nick are their usual crazy in-love happy. They're really the epitone of a perfect marriage. They're so perfect that through the whole book I was expecting something will happen to ruin all that perfection.
The fun thing is that, even if I understood that all that perfection is impossible, I didn't irked me. It was just so well done that I have come to expect it, to count on it.
I enjoyed all the secondary characters too and I kept wishing that the real political world could be like one described here. Where the politicians are honest and family oriented and not sharks ready to devour everybody. Wouldn't it be wonderful?! I'm sure then the world peace could be achieved! :)
I will continue reading this series and hoping Nick and Sam are going to have a child of their own!
March 26, 2014
4 Solid Stars****Great addition to the Fatal Series...There seemed to be a more realistic tone to this installment. Sam didn't get everything she wanted from her superiors. There was also realistic tension between Sam and Nick over the pressures and chaos of their lives. That is actually why I will a chip a star from my rating...I'm not a fan of The Choice. But, hey, not the author, so I'll roll with it. I like the little things that Sam and Nick do in all and every situation that show their love and connection. I appreciate that it's a priority for Force to show that. I freely admit that I'm a 'shipper.' I need good action and a tight plot, but without the romance angle, I will get bored;) Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this strong series.
October 20, 2015
Loved it! Unlike some authors, Marie Force does one smooth job of recapping past events and transitioning the reader into story #7 without skipping a beat. This story was another nice blend of family, suspense and career destinations. Sam’s niece Brooke is at the heart of the murder/suspense part of the story and although sad at times it but kept me guessing. Sam, as usual, rides a thin line trying to keep it professional versus personal.
Although I’m very surprised at where Nick’s career is taking him, I’m looking forward to the ride. Scotty is blending in well into Nick/Sam’s lives and its fun watching them as parents of a teenager. Waiting to find out what’s going on with this series side characters is just as fun as the main ones. A bit of the “oh please no” happens when one of Sam’s officers is shot and a few nail biter pages until the “whew” all is well. Despite Sam/Nick’s ups and downs they always settle things out making their relationship stronger for it. I hate having to wait until January for the next installment of this series, but I know Ms. Force will make it worth our while.
Although I’m very surprised at where Nick’s career is taking him, I’m looking forward to the ride. Scotty is blending in well into Nick/Sam’s lives and its fun watching them as parents of a teenager. Waiting to find out what’s going on with this series side characters is just as fun as the main ones. A bit of the “oh please no” happens when one of Sam’s officers is shot and a few nail biter pages until the “whew” all is well. Despite Sam/Nick’s ups and downs they always settle things out making their relationship stronger for it. I hate having to wait until January for the next installment of this series, but I know Ms. Force will make it worth our while.
March 26, 2014
Marie again succeeded. The next five stars. Series just gets better and better.
I love Sam, Nick, Scotty and the whole family, from the blood and choice.
I thank you, Marie, for short story, was touchingly.
It is a pity that it is necessary to wait all the way to the January to another meeting with favourite heroes.
Thank you, Marie, for now and I look forward to more.
I love Sam, Nick, Scotty and the whole family, from the blood and choice.
I thank you, Marie, for short story, was touchingly.
It is a pity that it is necessary to wait all the way to the January to another meeting with favourite heroes.
Thank you, Marie, for now and I look forward to more.
March 25, 2014
Less then 2 hours to wake up for school *sigh*
January 6, 2021
5- 🌟
Settimo capitolo della serie "House of crime" con al centro un caso molto delicato e che sarà duro da affrontare non solo per tutto il team, ma soprattutto per il tenente Samantha Holland. Difatti una notte, la ribelle nipote Brooke verrà abbandonata sulla porta di casa di sua zia nuda, incosciente ed insaguinata. La stessa notte verrà scoperta una carneficina: nove adolescenti morti durante un festino a base di sesso, alcool e droga dello stupro. L'unica superstite sembrerà essere solo Brooke: oltre ad essere vittima di una violenza sessuale di gruppo sarà anche la carnefice?
Per il tema trattato non è stato facile leggere tutto ciò che ha subìto la povera Brooke quella notte, anche durante le visite in ospedale per le indagini. Non è un'adolescente facile, già nei capitoli precedenti si era capito che si fosse invischiata in un brutto giro, quindi spero che il suo personaggio riesca ad evolversi positivamente dopo questo dramma.
Nel frattempo Nick Cappuano è davanti ad un bivio: accettare o meno la proposta di diventare vicepresidente degli Stati Uniti! Devo dire che il Senatore ha perso qualche punto in un determinato momento, non mi è piaciuta una sua reazione nei confronti di Samantha. Non mi è nemmeno sembrata coerente con il suo personaggio. Abbiamo conosciuto un Nick paziente e comprensivo, cosa che in quella situazione non è stato. Forse l'autrice ha voluto creare uno scossone nel rapporto con Sam.
Per il resto lo schema delle indagini ormai è sempre lo stesso: ritmo incalzante tra interrogatori e ricerche di prove, sino ad arrivare verso la fine alla svolta decisiva.
In questo capitolo avremo anche un finale da cardiopalma e resteremo col fiato sospeso per la vita di uno dei personaggi principali!
Settimo capitolo della serie "House of crime" con al centro un caso molto delicato e che sarà duro da affrontare non solo per tutto il team, ma soprattutto per il tenente Samantha Holland. Difatti una notte, la ribelle nipote Brooke verrà abbandonata sulla porta di casa di sua zia nuda, incosciente ed insaguinata. La stessa notte verrà scoperta una carneficina: nove adolescenti morti durante un festino a base di sesso, alcool e droga dello stupro. L'unica superstite sembrerà essere solo Brooke: oltre ad essere vittima di una violenza sessuale di gruppo sarà anche la carnefice?
Per il tema trattato non è stato facile leggere tutto ciò che ha subìto la povera Brooke quella notte, anche durante le visite in ospedale per le indagini. Non è un'adolescente facile, già nei capitoli precedenti si era capito che si fosse invischiata in un brutto giro, quindi spero che il suo personaggio riesca ad evolversi positivamente dopo questo dramma.
Nel frattempo Nick Cappuano è davanti ad un bivio: accettare o meno la proposta di diventare vicepresidente degli Stati Uniti! Devo dire che il Senatore ha perso qualche punto in un determinato momento, non mi è piaciuta una sua reazione nei confronti di Samantha. Non mi è nemmeno sembrata coerente con il suo personaggio. Abbiamo conosciuto un Nick paziente e comprensivo, cosa che in quella situazione non è stato. Forse l'autrice ha voluto creare uno scossone nel rapporto con Sam.
Per il resto lo schema delle indagini ormai è sempre lo stesso: ritmo incalzante tra interrogatori e ricerche di prove, sino ad arrivare verso la fine alla svolta decisiva.
In questo capitolo avremo anche un finale da cardiopalma e resteremo col fiato sospeso per la vita di uno dei personaggi principali!
May 24, 2024
Fatal Jeopardy
3 Stars
Detective Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, Senator Nick Cappuano, return home to find her teenage niece, Brooke, on their doorstep covered in blood. Soon the bodies of several teens are discovered in a nearby house, and Sam must decide if the two incidents are linked. Is Brooke a victim or a perpetrator?
Marie Force is a good storyteller; however, several plot points are unrealistic, and the characterization is inconsistent.
To begin with, the fact that Sam is involved in the investigation of her niece's assault defies belief. It is a significant conflict of interest, and Force's attempts to justify it are implausible and unconvincing. Moreover, the ongoing thread of Nick's appointment as Vice President despite his political naivete and inexperience, not to mention the issues surrounding Sam's career, is ridiculous.
In terms of the characters, both Sam and Nick exhibit problematic behavior. While Sam has always been snarky with her colleagues, she is downright rude and out of control in this installment. She reverts to the obnoxiousness of the first couple of books, which is disappointing considering her recent growth. Likewise, Nick's reaction to Sam is completely out of character.
Despite these issues, the mystery itself is gripping and the trauma that Brooke suffers, both physical and psychological, is heartwrenching. There are real monsters in the world, and some of them are right under our noses.
All in all, this is not one of the better additions to the series, but the mysteries and the ongoing story arcs are keeping me interested.
3 Stars
Detective Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, Senator Nick Cappuano, return home to find her teenage niece, Brooke, on their doorstep covered in blood. Soon the bodies of several teens are discovered in a nearby house, and Sam must decide if the two incidents are linked. Is Brooke a victim or a perpetrator?
Marie Force is a good storyteller; however, several plot points are unrealistic, and the characterization is inconsistent.
To begin with, the fact that Sam is involved in the investigation of her niece's assault defies belief. It is a significant conflict of interest, and Force's attempts to justify it are implausible and unconvincing. Moreover, the ongoing thread of Nick's appointment as Vice President despite his political naivete and inexperience, not to mention the issues surrounding Sam's career, is ridiculous.
In terms of the characters, both Sam and Nick exhibit problematic behavior. While Sam has always been snarky with her colleagues, she is downright rude and out of control in this installment. She reverts to the obnoxiousness of the first couple of books, which is disappointing considering her recent growth. Likewise, Nick's reaction to Sam is completely out of character.
Despite these issues, the mystery itself is gripping and the trauma that Brooke suffers, both physical and psychological, is heartwrenching. There are real monsters in the world, and some of them are right under our noses.
All in all, this is not one of the better additions to the series, but the mysteries and the ongoing story arcs are keeping me interested.
September 26, 2019
Sam Holland
Nick Cuppano
Read 4/4/14 | 4 stars
Read 7/11/16
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Book synopsis: Washington, D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, U.S. Senator Nick Cappuano, have been looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving with their son. But any thoughts of a restful holiday are dashed when Sam and Nick return home to a gruesome scene: Sam's seventeen-year-old niece Brooke, barely conscious and covered in blood on their front stoop.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
Nick Cuppano
Read 4/4/14 | 4 stars
Read 7/11/16
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Book synopsis: Washington, D.C. Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her husband, U.S. Senator Nick Cappuano, have been looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving with their son. But any thoughts of a restful holiday are dashed when Sam and Nick return home to a gruesome scene: Sam's seventeen-year-old niece Brooke, barely conscious and covered in blood on their front stoop.
With lines between personal and professional blurring in this emotionally charged, deeply personal case, Sam is relying on Nick more than ever for support. But when suspicious images from the night in question appear on social media, Sam begins to wonder if her niece is telling her everything she knows about what really happened. And when Nick questions her tactics—and her ethics—as she races against the clock, Sam will need to decide how far she's willing to go to prove Brooke is a victim, not a murderer.
March 24, 2014
I was so happy to see this loaded up on my kindle this morning, I stopped what I was currently reading and dove straight in.
As always Nick, Sam and the rest of the clan haven't failed to keep me curled up in laughter, reaching for the tissues in tears and just gripped in anticipation of any of the characters next move.
I cannot wait for book 8 in the series, when I'll be able to just escape for a little while into the tempestuous and exhilarating lives of the Cappuano & Holland family.
My sick days have never gone by as fast as it did today while gripped to this book.
As always Nick, Sam and the rest of the clan haven't failed to keep me curled up in laughter, reaching for the tissues in tears and just gripped in anticipation of any of the characters next move.
I cannot wait for book 8 in the series, when I'll be able to just escape for a little while into the tempestuous and exhilarating lives of the Cappuano & Holland family.
My sick days have never gone by as fast as it did today while gripped to this book.
March 27, 2014
I have such a fangirl love of this series. Nick and Sam are absolutely amazing together, their romance is perfect and I adore every moment of their lives.
Force keeps getting better and better with each book. While I loved the mystery of this one, I have to say I was a bit bummed it wasn't resolved in a certain way. However, it was also totally realistic, so hats off to Force for that!
I am DYING to see where the next book goes. This series gets more and more ingenious with each book, and if you love murder mystery books, or romantic suspense, you MUST READ THIS SERIES!!! Seriously...
Force keeps getting better and better with each book. While I loved the mystery of this one, I have to say I was a bit bummed it wasn't resolved in a certain way. However, it was also totally realistic, so hats off to Force for that!
I am DYING to see where the next book goes. This series gets more and more ingenious with each book, and if you love murder mystery books, or romantic suspense, you MUST READ THIS SERIES!!! Seriously...
March 24, 2014
Yep, five stars again. What can I say? It's Sam and Nick! Of course, I'm a bit biased - this is one of my favorite series, and Sam is my favorite heroine. She's got a job that's never boring, a sarcastic wit that won't quit, and Nick. Nick!
If you haven't read this series, by all means, remedy that! Start at the beginning with Fatal Affair and work your way through to this newest addition. You will thank me!
If you haven't read this series, by all means, remedy that! Start at the beginning with Fatal Affair and work your way through to this newest addition. You will thank me!
January 13, 2015
Another winner in this series. Nick and Sam are one of my very favorite couples and I missed them very much. Fatal Jeopardy had me on the edge of my seat, I thought I knew who the baddy was and I was completely wrong. This book also had me laughing out loud a few times, and I need the tissues near by for most of the book. Well done.... is it January 2015 yet?!
March 25, 2014
Lucky number Seven
Once again Marie Force delivers with Sam and Nick's story. Really good story line, can't wait for number eight. Wish the wait was not so long!
Once again Marie Force delivers with Sam and Nick's story. Really good story line, can't wait for number eight. Wish the wait was not so long!
May 21, 2014
FATAL JEOPARDY - FATAL SERIES #7 - (Sam and Nick)
February 5, 2019
*4.5 STARS*
This one was so good. There wasn't much question as to "whodunit" but it was the process in which the team got there that was so good. I felt horrible for Sam having to listen to everything and in some instances see everything that happened to her niece. Gut wrenching!
But, Nick's stuff. WOW! I have no idea how things are going to go from here on out with that. Should be interesting. I also am worried about the adoption. They keep hinting at something that could really throw a monkey wrench in the whole thing. I hope I'm wrong there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. Looking forward to the next!
This one was so good. There wasn't much question as to "whodunit" but it was the process in which the team got there that was so good. I felt horrible for Sam having to listen to everything and in some instances see everything that happened to her niece. Gut wrenching!
But, Nick's stuff. WOW! I have no idea how things are going to go from here on out with that. Should be interesting. I also am worried about the adoption. They keep hinting at something that could really throw a monkey wrench in the whole thing. I hope I'm wrong there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. Looking forward to the next!
February 12, 2019
Strong 4.5 stars!
Yeah Baby!
This was sooo much fun. I could barely stop reading. It was one thing after another. This becaming crack. I need to escape and this series is doing the job.
Next!
Yeah Baby!
This was sooo much fun. I could barely stop reading. It was one thing after another. This becaming crack. I need to escape and this series is doing the job.
Next!
February 2, 2016
This is the 7th book in Marie Force's Fatal series. Overall, I enjoyed this book and the characters. It's well written, action packed and has a fast pace.
However, I had a few problems that brought this down to a four star for me:
A) Nick goes ballistic when Sam cancels their vacation to help her niece who has just been gang raped. Now I get that the couple needs some down time after all in the last 11 months a lot has happened (and I had to remind myself its only been 11 months). This however, just didn't ring true of Nick's character and seemed contrived to cause friction between Sam and Nick. That would have been fine if she would have played it out but they both argue for a bit and then get over it and have sex.
B) Sam is allowed to work both cases, the multiple homicide case and her niece's gang-rape. This was SO unbelievable I had a hard time getting past the complete conflict of interest. The author tries to get past it saying the father of one of the victims who is a prominent criminal defense attorney wants her on the case. But even with this there is no way she would be allowed to work this case. Furthermore, later in the book the author states something about the father that completely goes against his desire to have Sam on the case. Further more, this father has previously publically stated his adverse opinion of Sam.
C) Sam comes across as a bit of a bully in this book. She is rude and overbearing to a lot of civilians that she has to deal with in this book like the receptionist, security officers, principals, etc. Although, Sam is dealing with the rape of her niece she seems to blame everyone except the boys who actually raped her (saying several times well they were drunk and taking drugs and probably acted in ways they wouldn't ordinarily). So she looses it with the school that let her niece leave the school when they shouldn't but makes excuses for the boys who raped her niece? It seemed like the author was trying to make her a bad a** (like Eve in In Death) but it just didn't work - it came across as more rude, off-putting and seemed to make her a less effective police detective.
D) Nick's accession to Vice President is so ridiculous and unrealistic. Again it's been 11 months since he became a senator in the first place. So he hasn't even been in office a year and now he's going to be picked to be Vice President. But okay maybe I could past that but then to say and we want you so much your wife can continue to be a police detective and you don't have to move.... There's only so much unrealistic scenarios I can take. I just don't see the need for Nick to move to VP so quickly when there is plenty of conflict with him being a senator.
As long as you are willing to suspend your belief in realty you'll enjoy this edition of Nick and Sam and all their friends and co-workers. I hope that the author is willing to take a few risks and create some real conflict that might not be solved in 12 hours or that not everything is wrapped up nice and tidy. (Gonzo gets custody, while people get hurt there is no fear they'll actual die, Sam can be Sam no matter what position her husband has).
Still with all that said - it's still a 4 star book that I really enjoyed and I will continue to read the Fatal series.
Next, Force fails miserably in her attempt to get the reader to feel that Sam is frustrated at every turn because Gonzo is in charge of the homicide investigation, while her conflict relegates her to being just a team member. Quite frankly, Sam actually handles the situation with perfect professional bearing, befitting her position as the homicide division commander. She sets an important example for her team and she actually learns from the experience.
However, I had a few problems that brought this down to a four star for me:
A) Nick goes ballistic when Sam cancels their vacation to help her niece who has just been gang raped. Now I get that the couple needs some down time after all in the last 11 months a lot has happened (and I had to remind myself its only been 11 months). This however, just didn't ring true of Nick's character and seemed contrived to cause friction between Sam and Nick. That would have been fine if she would have played it out but they both argue for a bit and then get over it and have sex.
B) Sam is allowed to work both cases, the multiple homicide case and her niece's gang-rape. This was SO unbelievable I had a hard time getting past the complete conflict of interest. The author tries to get past it saying the father of one of the victims who is a prominent criminal defense attorney wants her on the case. But even with this there is no way she would be allowed to work this case. Furthermore, later in the book the author states something about the father that completely goes against his desire to have Sam on the case. Further more, this father has previously publically stated his adverse opinion of Sam.
C) Sam comes across as a bit of a bully in this book. She is rude and overbearing to a lot of civilians that she has to deal with in this book like the receptionist, security officers, principals, etc. Although, Sam is dealing with the rape of her niece she seems to blame everyone except the boys who actually raped her (saying several times well they were drunk and taking drugs and probably acted in ways they wouldn't ordinarily). So she looses it with the school that let her niece leave the school when they shouldn't but makes excuses for the boys who raped her niece? It seemed like the author was trying to make her a bad a** (like Eve in In Death) but it just didn't work - it came across as more rude, off-putting and seemed to make her a less effective police detective.
D) Nick's accession to Vice President is so ridiculous and unrealistic. Again it's been 11 months since he became a senator in the first place. So he hasn't even been in office a year and now he's going to be picked to be Vice President. But okay maybe I could past that but then to say and we want you so much your wife can continue to be a police detective and you don't have to move.... There's only so much unrealistic scenarios I can take. I just don't see the need for Nick to move to VP so quickly when there is plenty of conflict with him being a senator.
As long as you are willing to suspend your belief in realty you'll enjoy this edition of Nick and Sam and all their friends and co-workers. I hope that the author is willing to take a few risks and create some real conflict that might not be solved in 12 hours or that not everything is wrapped up nice and tidy. (Gonzo gets custody, while people get hurt there is no fear they'll actual die, Sam can be Sam no matter what position her husband has).
Still with all that said - it's still a 4 star book that I really enjoyed and I will continue to read the Fatal series.
Next, Force fails miserably in her attempt to get the reader to feel that Sam is frustrated at every turn because Gonzo is in charge of the homicide investigation, while her conflict relegates her to being just a team member. Quite frankly, Sam actually handles the situation with perfect professional bearing, befitting her position as the homicide division commander. She sets an important example for her team and she actually learns from the experience.
December 13, 2014
4.5 stars
I love this series. The only downside to it is that the main character's confidence in her ability often turns into arrogance and I find it truly annoying how unnecessarily rude she can be to people, but god forbid someone would be less than nice to her. If they don't bow to her will she quickly pulls the "are you threatening a police officer" card. But those moments of bitchiness are becoming rarer and rarer as the series progresses. It a true testament to how much Sam has changed for the better since getting married and becoming a mother. She's still a tough badass cop but now the moments she reatracts her claws are more frequent. I'm really glad for this because since the beginning of the series this has been the only issue I had with it. Everything else about these books is just perfect.
I love the side characters and I love the suspense and thrill of catching the criminal. The cases Sam solves are never clear cut and easy to figure out, there is always so much more going on in the background that absolutely thrills the crime story lover in me. The case that Fatal Jeopardy revolves around hit very close to home for Sam and I have to admit I was very worried about how she would handle it. She's definitely not the type that can take a back seat and trust that someone else is capable of handling a case properly. Of course, she couldn't so it without firm encouragement from her friends and family. Sam is definitely mellowing out and I for one am seriously glad to see it.
Besides the suspenseful story my favorite part is Nick and Sam's marriage. I love how affectionate they are with each other and how they work out through every issue that develops in their relationship, stemming either from their demanding jobs or their personal hangups. Even though I love Scotty I would still like to see Sam get pregnant in the future. She really deserves it after everything she's been through. And with Nick being a such a great dad the two should have a bus load of kids. I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I love this series. The only downside to it is that the main character's confidence in her ability often turns into arrogance and I find it truly annoying how unnecessarily rude she can be to people, but god forbid someone would be less than nice to her. If they don't bow to her will she quickly pulls the "are you threatening a police officer" card. But those moments of bitchiness are becoming rarer and rarer as the series progresses. It a true testament to how much Sam has changed for the better since getting married and becoming a mother. She's still a tough badass cop but now the moments she reatracts her claws are more frequent. I'm really glad for this because since the beginning of the series this has been the only issue I had with it. Everything else about these books is just perfect.
I love the side characters and I love the suspense and thrill of catching the criminal. The cases Sam solves are never clear cut and easy to figure out, there is always so much more going on in the background that absolutely thrills the crime story lover in me. The case that Fatal Jeopardy revolves around hit very close to home for Sam and I have to admit I was very worried about how she would handle it. She's definitely not the type that can take a back seat and trust that someone else is capable of handling a case properly. Of course, she couldn't so it without firm encouragement from her friends and family. Sam is definitely mellowing out and I for one am seriously glad to see it.
Besides the suspenseful story my favorite part is Nick and Sam's marriage. I love how affectionate they are with each other and how they work out through every issue that develops in their relationship, stemming either from their demanding jobs or their personal hangups. Even though I love Scotty I would still like to see Sam get pregnant in the future. She really deserves it after everything she's been through. And with Nick being a such a great dad the two should have a bus load of kids. I can't wait for the next book to come out.
May 20, 2014
This is a tough review for me to write because I'm not giving 5 stars. MF's writing is stellar, and I continue to LOVE Sam and Nick, but this was a very tough book to read due to the violent subject matter.
SPOILER ALERT: Rape is something every woman fears. Jeannie's rape was handled sensitively in a previous book in the series, but Brooke's was a drug and alcohol induced gang rape. It was graphic.
This book was a lot less about Sam and Nick's relationship and a lot more about the case. There was just something missing. Maybe it was that there was no serious loft time for them, and I love when MF writes loft time, or maybe it was just because I was very uncomfortable about the crime.
It can be argued that good writing makes you think, feel, and even be uncomfortable. It was great writing but just not my cup of tea. That being said, am I looking forward to the next book in the series? Hell yeah I am! Will I preorder as soon as I can? Hell yeah I will! Marie Force is the best for a reason. She keeps you coming back and loving her characters. Can't wait for the next step for Sam and Nick and see how Skip's surgery turns out.
SPOILER ALERT: Rape is something every woman fears. Jeannie's rape was handled sensitively in a previous book in the series, but Brooke's was a drug and alcohol induced gang rape. It was graphic.
This book was a lot less about Sam and Nick's relationship and a lot more about the case. There was just something missing. Maybe it was that there was no serious loft time for them, and I love when MF writes loft time, or maybe it was just because I was very uncomfortable about the crime.
It can be argued that good writing makes you think, feel, and even be uncomfortable. It was great writing but just not my cup of tea. That being said, am I looking forward to the next book in the series? Hell yeah I am! Will I preorder as soon as I can? Hell yeah I will! Marie Force is the best for a reason. She keeps you coming back and loving her characters. Can't wait for the next step for Sam and Nick and see how Skip's surgery turns out.
March 24, 2014
Great book!
This case wasn't as complex as the previous ones, especially with Sam not directly leading the case, we get to see Sam learn to delegate and (pretend to) sit back a little. I was hoping for more Hill induced jealousy, which we got, but I wish there were more substance to it than really just working the case. Our Sam is so great, how can Hill just turn off the attraction? I gave this book a 5 star review, which, I feel is lower than the other 5 star reviews in the series, cause those were really 6 star books. I hope the new promotion isn't going to give us less sizzle, cause aren't VPs kinda busy? Wouldn't Sam and Nick get less time together? I feel like this is on the road to the end of the series... I thought turning down the prez was going to earn us another couple of books before the wind down... Anyhoo, still a great book, great series, must read!
P.s. Please don't let Skippy die!
This case wasn't as complex as the previous ones, especially with Sam not directly leading the case, we get to see Sam learn to delegate and (pretend to) sit back a little. I was hoping for more Hill induced jealousy, which we got, but I wish there were more substance to it than really just working the case. Our Sam is so great, how can Hill just turn off the attraction? I gave this book a 5 star review, which, I feel is lower than the other 5 star reviews in the series, cause those were really 6 star books. I hope the new promotion isn't going to give us less sizzle, cause aren't VPs kinda busy? Wouldn't Sam and Nick get less time together? I feel like this is on the road to the end of the series... I thought turning down the prez was going to earn us another couple of books before the wind down... Anyhoo, still a great book, great series, must read!
P.s. Please don't let Skippy die!
March 25, 2014
A sure sign that I couldn't wait for this book? I had it on 3 calendars so I was prepared for the release!! Why? Because I know in my heart of hearts Marie Force will not disappoint and she didn't.
Marie has picked up exactly where we left off in book 6 and our favorite couple is trying to recover from a very emotional and extreme year. I love that Marie reminds us that it has been only a year since we first met these characters and that like them, we are shocked at how much has occurred in the year.
Nick is still amazingly hot and in love with his beautiful wife. Sam is still struggling with the balance of her career and that of a Senator's wife. Scotty is still hilarious and a straight shooter.
I loved brining more of Sam's family into the fold and that this book, while it gave us plenty of Nick was Sam's story. The story of her family and her complete love of all of them.
Another 5+ stars to Marie Force!! I cannot wait for book 8!
Marie has picked up exactly where we left off in book 6 and our favorite couple is trying to recover from a very emotional and extreme year. I love that Marie reminds us that it has been only a year since we first met these characters and that like them, we are shocked at how much has occurred in the year.
Nick is still amazingly hot and in love with his beautiful wife. Sam is still struggling with the balance of her career and that of a Senator's wife. Scotty is still hilarious and a straight shooter.
I loved brining more of Sam's family into the fold and that this book, while it gave us plenty of Nick was Sam's story. The story of her family and her complete love of all of them.
Another 5+ stars to Marie Force!! I cannot wait for book 8!
March 26, 2014
Absolutely perfect. Another great addition to a awesome series. The banter between Sam and Nick is what makes the story and the whole series worth reading. And waiting impatiently for the next one. Sam and Nick are the perfect couple and they have all the friends and family to suppose any choices they make. Love Scotty and his life is changing for the better each day with Sam and Nick. There are a few twist and turns, but it would not be the Fatal series if Sam didn't have a case and a criminal to chase. The case in this story will rip out your heart and will have you crying for the victims. Still there is one question for me that I will ask after each addition: "Will Sam every have Nick's baby?" Only Marie Force can answer that, so I will keep reading this series until Marie has nothing left for Sam, Nick, Scotty and their friends and families. Congrats Marie!!!
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