Saxton Reads! & Reviews

****bas bleu 
27 and Still Going Strong

I think of the books in the J.D. Robb "In Death" series like I think of chocolate truffles: absolutely addicting. Once I finish reading one, I impatiently wait for the next one to be published. Although Robb is a prolific author, her books cannot come quickly enough for her fans. In this 27th book of the series, Robb (a.k.a. Nora Roberts) does not fail to deliver. The setting of the novel, 50 years into the future, depicts a very realistic New York City. Eve Dallas is a tough, hard-boiled police lieutenant who is married to Roarke, possibly the wealthiest and sexiest man in the world. The dynamics between these two characters, as well as the interplay with the supporting characters, is what keeps Robb's fans coming back for more and more. This time around, Eve clashes with the Catholic Church when she investigates the death of a priest who was poisoned via the sacrament during a funeral mass. Entertainment Weekly refers to this series as "Law and Order:SVU-in the future." Like the TV series, each book reveals more nuances of the main and supporting characters. One criticism of this novel might be the brief mention of the supporting characters. I missed the interplay between Eve and Summerset, the antics of Galahad (Eve and Roarke's self-indulgent cat), Mavis, Nadine, and all of the "girlie" things (such as thinking about clothes, shoes, hair, and makeup) that push Eve to the limit. The plot of Salvation in Death was more linear than Robb's previous novels, with less of the by-play and subplots that readers have come to anticipate. Nonetheless, I am eagerly awaiting Robb's next release, when in addition to the mystery and suspense, we will hopefully be entertained by Louise's upcoming bachelorette/bridal shower; Mavis's outrageous hair, makeup, and clothes; and, as always, the sizzle of Eve and Roarke's relationship.