Reader Reviews for Carolyn Arnold
Eleven (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“Must devour… It was like reading an episode of Criminal Minds, and if you have seen that show then you already know how awesome this book is going to be. From the moment I picked up the book I was thrown into the story and it never let me go. As the story unraveled and clues unfolded I felt like I was participating in the hunt as much as the agents in the story. And let me tell you, never did I see that ending coming… Not only did I love this story I loved its characters, all of them.”
–Consuming Words
“Masterful, gripping writing! Would make a thrilling movie!…”
–Betty Dravis, Award-winning author and journalist
“…Silence of the Lambs, move over. ELEVEN is an absolutely stunning performance.”
–Frederick Lee Brooke, Author & Reviewer
“Looking for an FBI thriller? This is it!… You just want to don a badge and gun, and delve in there yourself… The characters are real, honest, and gritty, and the ‘baddies’ get under your skin, willing you to unravel their psyche. I love a good thriller and this did not disappoint.”
–The Kindle Review
“You’ll feel like you are right there with the team of FBI agents as they race against time to stop the serial killer from filling the final grave…. Carolyn Arnold writes in a quick-paced style that I love. She has great dialogue. Her ability to build suspense hooks you from the first chapter. Arnold is a master at almost filling in the blanks–but then leaving you dangling.”
–Rosie Cochran, Author of A Murder Unseen
“An excellent investigative series… Highly recommended.”
–My Book Reviews
“Eleven is an FBI thriller that has great character development and an excellent story… I enjoyed following the FBI team’s investigation from the main character’s perspective and seeing how he reacted to certain situations. I love thrillers and therefore can be very picky with the end result of the roller-coaster ride that is expected from them. Arnold did a very good job of keeping me guessing during the investigation in Eleven. Just when you think the team is on the right track, something throws them off. I had my suspicions of who the killer was (I was wrong of course!), but I was pleasantly surprised when the killer was finally revealed.”
–Robert Pruneda, Bestselling author
“I was very intrigued…If you like serial killer stories, then you will enjoy this book.”
–Cege Smith, Bestselling author
“It moved at a cracking pace, but was still a complex story with several sub plots… An excellent read, which I’m sure will be a favorite for fans of police procedurals and intelligent suspense novels.”
–Steam & Ink
“This mystery/thriller was very fast paced, written as if from the hands and mind of a former FBI agent! … Spellbinding suspense from one chapter to the next… The interplay between the central characters was devilishly detailed and just added the last hint of spice to make this wonderful serial killer recipe [perfect]. And the use of Brandon, the fresh-from-the-academy newbie, damaged goods and all, as the eyes with which to tell the story through was masterful! If you love a high suspense, plot twists and break neck speeds for your reading pleasure, then I highly recommend [this book]!”
–Ashley Fontainne, Bestselling author
Silent Graves (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“…a mystery of tension and intrigue that grabs the reader and propels them into a story of dark terror as cold as the psychopath’s heart…”
–Richard C Hale, International bestselling author
“…Non-stop action gives this novel a live pulse that beats faster and faster with each turn of the page…”
–Katie Jennings, Bestselling author
“An exciting and tense investigative thriller… This is a realistic investigative novel well written by Carolyn Arnold. She has developed a team which will search for every bit of evidence, and never drop anyone from being a possible suspect. Highly recommend.”
–My Book Reviews
“I love a good thriller. Especially a cop thriller that takes me through the minds of the crazy psycho path that is being hunted by the FBI. I know I am twisted, but I accept that…In Silent Graves not only do you get to see inside the minds of the FBI, with Brandon’s POV, but you get to see inside the mind of the killer. And a sick and twisted killer he is. I love the way that Carolyn Arnold gives us both POV’s simultaneously. While the FBI slowly unravels the unsub and what makes him tick you get to see it all first hand and can fully testify that they are on the right track. But even though you can see inside the mind of the killer, you have no idea who he is. Carolyn Arnold does a marvelous job of slowly unraveling the story bit by bit, crumb by painstaking crumb, never revealing too much… Silent Graves will take you on a thrill ride that is as good as any crime show. It will have you hooked to the characters and their quirky dynamics, the creepy case and the thrill of the chase.”
–Consuming Words
“Carolyn Arnold does a fantastic job of putting this story together, with the complexity of the clues, findings, twists and surprises, which she excels in. Carolyn’s knowledge of police procedures is amazing, and she does this so flawlessly to precise perfection. There isn’t a moment that is used with fluff. It is all tense and terrifying, as the story slowly unravels. I do not want to give any spoilers, other than to say this was a race to the finish! Arnold is a wonderful writer, who has the ability to put you right in the middle of a tense and violent storyline.”
–The Reading Café
“This story moves fast and keeps the reader enthralled! Carolyn Arnold weaves a tale of missing women, local police, the FBI and a killer or killers, that keeps you guessing at every turn of the page! Great characters, real dialogue and intrigue make this a stone cold thriller of a book. Carolyn does an incredible job in packing Silent Graves full with a rich storyline. There’s no filler here as we follow these characters through to a nail biting climax, then on to tie up loose ends. If you’re looking for a great thrill ride, you found one!!”
–Brian T. Shirley, Comedian
The Defenseless (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“Another enthralling investigative thriller… Carolyn Arnold’s stories in this series reveal realistic investigative procedures and the characters are well developed. Her stories are well written and readers can easily become drawn strongly into the story line. Highly recommend.”
–My Book Reviews
“Arnold has a quality to her writing that brings her characters to life. Brandon and his fellow FBI agents are searching for a serial killer. The deaths are violent, but Arnold envelopes the reader deeply enough in the killer’s mind that a reader may develop a bit of empathy for the killer. The plot races forward with twists and turns where least expected and brings the reader to a surprising end.”
–Marianne Spitzer, Bestselling author
“The Advocate has been planning revenge on dog abusers for a long time. Several animal abusers are put to death using the exact tortures that they inflicted on dogs…meticulously recreated (though the story is not gory). The Advocate thinks he is invincible and his standards of what constitutes being worthy of death are becoming broader…accidents count and no attempt is made to establish actual guilt. A quick read that follows Brandon Fisher of the FBI and his team examining many suspects with many reasons for protecting the Defenseless.”
–The Bluest Butterfly
“The story here is a heartbreaking one…a serial killer out to strike revenge against those who abuse animals. It was interesting to see how the agents tangled with their own morality while trying to pursue a killer who, in so many ways, was justified in their actions. But in the end, no one is above the law and the FBI will stop at nothing to find the truth… It’s non-stop action right up until the heart pounding conclusion. You won’t want to put it down, and it’s guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.”
–Katie Jennings, Bestselling author
Blue Baby (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“I really enjoyed this book. If you’re a fan of Alison Brennan. I think you’ll like this one. It’s like reading an episode of Criminal Minds so this would be a good way to fill that void until the new season starts… I do like that the story was told in part from the perspective of the killer. Often the focus with this type of book or show is more on the ones trying to catch the killer. The next time I’m in the mood for this type of book, this author is certainly going to be one of my options. I don’t dive into this genre as often as I do with other genres, but I have found a few great authors that I do enjoy when I just feel like reading a psychological thriller.”
–Fic Girl
“I have never read a creepier story until now! Blue Baby took me to the dark, menacing, and terrifying place. This story was everything a mystery/thriller should be and more… I was so into this book that I had to know who this killer was and take him or her down as much as Agent Fisher did. Blue Baby was one hellish, fast-paced, creep show that demanded my attention leaving me no choice but to continue reading until I had discovered who was lurking in the darkness and taking the lives of innocent victims who quickly became prey. I loved every minute of it!
“I have never read anything by Carolyn Arnold before and I had not realized that this was not the first in the Brandon Fisher FBI series. I can honestly tell you that this book was so well written that that I was able to pick up this book and not get lost as to where the origin of this story began and enjoy reading to where it may end. I would very much so enjoy reading more books by Ms. Arnold.”
–Tammy’s Tea Time
“A well-written psychological thriller. Told (in part) through the murderer’s eyes, we really get the feel of what a serial killer is like. Also, how the last minutes of the victims’ lives were. The story is detailed and chilling. Brandon and his team are all likable. The plot moves at an even pace; it gets intense watching how the story unfolds…. I found Blue Baby thrilling and an enjoyable read. I feel those who like criminal/dramatic/thrillers will enjoy it as well.”
–Juniper Grove
“The story runs at a good pace, my fingers kept on flipping those pages, and I was determined to find out [whodunit] before my eyelids started drooping!… Good narrative, enthralling writing…to keep you occupied and guessing at [what comes next]!”
–2 Girls Who Love Books
“I just couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough. The suspense had my heart pounding, with the twists and turns keeping me on my toes. I usually guess the unsub quickly, but Carolyn Arnold did a great job with the secret. If you love books about the FBI, then read this book.”
–The Power of Three Readers
“This is the first book of Carolyn’s I’ve read, and I was pleasantly surprised. I love crime novels, especially the ones with gritty forensic details. Having studied forensic science myself, it’s very rare to find one with forensic details. Carolyn’s a master storyteller. This book was very well written…”
–Angels on Earth
“One of my favorite TV shows is Criminal Minds which is set in the FBI and in particular the BAU unit which is what the law enforcement agents in Blue Baby were a part of… It’s up to the BAU to profile and hopefully capture the killer before he/she kills again and if you do enjoy reading about murders, Blue Baby contains not one, but multiple deaths to engage the reader and hold their attention, and [to] be honest, who doesn’t like reading about murder now and again as it thrills the human brain…”
–The Phantom Photographer
“This book was a good read. If you like the show Criminal Minds or shows like that, you will like this book. The story takes you through the investigation. Keeps you wondering as to who the killer may be. It keeps you in suspense, which can be very exciting. It gives you some insight into the investigation and the characters’ personalities. I look forward to reading more from this author.”
–Pamaceeve’s Blog
“An excellent mystery thriller… Blue Baby was the best book in this series. If you like murder mysteries, serial killers, and a team that finds each of them with their own issues; then you will enjoy this series. I must praise Carolyn Arnold for her knowledge of police procedures and her flawless writing.”
–The Reading Café
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, yeah it’s here, and it’s twisted. After reading Carolyn Arnold’s Blue Baby, you’ll never look at that old nursery rhyme the same way again.”
–The 131 Preview Review
“A well-written psychological thriller…detailed, chilling, and intense.”
–Juniper Grove
“Think Criminal Minds… An awesome mystery/suspense read…in-depth characters with lots of police procedures. This book will keep you turning the pages trying to figure out the clues along with the team, keeping you guessing until the end.”
–Harp’s Romance Book Review
“The suspense was killing me, just as soon as I thought they were onto something there was twist that turned things upside down. The story was well thought out, and you can see the author did her homework and research on this one.”
–Amber’s Book Reviews
Violated (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“In Arnold’s well-executed fifth Brandon Fisher FBI novel (after 2015’s Blue Baby), FBI agent Paige Dawson becomes embroiled in a case, not as an investigator but as a suspect, when she travels to Valencia, Calif., to seek out Ferris Hall, the man who raped a friend of hers 22 years before in Mexico. Coincidentally, Hall is murdered at a Valencia motel the night before the police discover Dawson entering his house, and she falls under suspicion. Dawson works with seasoned profilers Fisher and Jack Harper to clear her name and also track down the culprit, possibly a serial killer out for vengeance against violent men. The romantic tension between Fisher and Dawson grows as she grapples with residual feelings for her fellow investigator while attempting to pursue a new relationship. Arnold does a good job creating an air of uncertainty surrounding the murder, and the chemistry among her FBI characters is convincing.”
–Publishers Weekly
“This book is an extraordinary murder mystery. It is riddled with suspense and you will not want to put this book down. While FBI Agent Paige Dawson sets out on a personal mission to confront a man who had raped her friend many years ago, she becomes the focus of his murder investigation, where she is the prime suspect. Her team is working relentlessly to prove her innocence, but the evidence just keeps piling up and pointing towards her. This is a mystery that will keep you speculating where the truth lies…up until the very end.”
–Dialogue with Doris
“OMG! Violated by Carolyn Arnold has been the most thrilling and exciting story that I have read in the longest while. I can’t believe that I have never heard of this author before now…. This is the fifth book in the [Brandon Fisher FBI series] and there is no need to read the previous books prior to reading this one. However, I can assure you that after reading Violated, you will be clamoring to get your hands on the other books in the series.
“When I read the prologue I knew I had to discover how the story would unfold. It grabbed my attention from that moment and I was disappointed when it came to an end…
“If you love police procedurals and a good mystery you will enjoy this book.”
–Totally Addicted to Reading
“I was intrigued reading all the legal avenues and resources available for law enforcement. This was a dark read, but it was fun trying to stay a step ahead of the characters. It was certainly not for the squeamish.”
–I Create Purty Thangs
“You will be kept gripped throughout this psychological thriller, turning the pages quickly. An easy read detective novel with very graphic details of the crime scenes. The characters are really brought to life and you can imagine yourself being at each scene in the book through the brilliant descriptions… As this is one of many in a series, I cannot wait for the next one. In the modern age where it is difficult to create original plots and storylines with realistic characters, praise must be given to the author for achieving this.”
–Beck Valley Books
“If you have ever watched Criminal Minds on television and loved it, you’ll definitely want to pick up Violated. Brandon Fisher is a profiler in the Behavioral Analysis Unit. The book follows his unit as they track a killer but not because the local authorities want help. Because one of the unit is the accused…. On top of the murders that need to be solved, there is tension between Brandon and the accused, Paige. They had been involved at one point in time, but Paige has a new friend who accompanies her on her vacation to California. The triangle that these three form makes for more tension in the book than just the trouble solving a gruesome murder… I definitely recommend picking up Violated.”
–Nicki’s Nook
“As a big fan of mystery, suspense, crime, etc. (TV and books!), I can’t believe I hadn’t found this series from the start… Frankly, I am a bit disappointed in myself; however, now that I have read the 5th book, I’ll be grabbing up the first four in a heartbeat!… The book was like my first roller coaster ride – wild and full of twists, turns and excitement!”
–Lynchburg Mama
“This is one fast read–and one I won’t soon forget.”
–Miki’s Hope
“This is the first of the [Brandon Fisher FBI series] that I’ve read, and I can’t wait to go back and read the previous books!… Arnold has a wonderful way of describing her characters and her story. While some of the descriptions were gory, I felt that they were necessary for the story development, so that you truly understood what the [agents] were seeing and feeling… This book has so many twists and turns! Once you start reading it be prepared for a wild ride!”
–Sanity is for those without children
“I read this book in record time and I was not a happy camper when it ended. This is a must read book!… I had not heard of the Brandon Fisher FBI series previous to picking up Violated, but dang do I wish I had! (I will be going back and reading the rest.)
“The author specifically states on her website that you can read them in any order or you can go in order that they were written. Frankly, Violated is [the fifth book], and I did not feel like I missed anything that was so incredibly vital that I was lost. I mean, I know there is history, but I didn’t feel lost at all.
“Violated was full of [whodunit] and suspense. I felt like I was part of the team working along with them. When they got duped, I got duped. We would figure things out at the same time, allowing me to live within the story.
“I absolutely loved this book and if you are into crime and mysteries – this is a great read! I highly suggest reading this book (and probably the rest of the books!).”
–Life as Leels
“I’ve not always been big on FBI based stories, as I often find they feel a bit as if they are trying too hard. Other times they seem to throw every possibility and technique into one story, making it just too much, or they go from suspecting no one to solved and don’t really describe how [they] got there. This book was different. I got enough detail to really work through the crime with them, but without overdoing it and making it slow. Each section was given the time necessary to really bring it to life and help you see the scene ever and the evidence, or lack thereof. This book also didn’t try to throw every crime possibility under the sun at you, but instead focused on one very major crime, that happens to land a federal agent behind bars… The author is very talented and was able to throw in twists and turns, to really keep you hooked and keep the story alive.”
–Naturalbri Reviews
“Violated is a great mystery that has us on the edge of our seat throughout the book… If you are a fan of murder mysteries, difficult tense crimes, and a great team, then this series is perfect for you.”
–The Reading Café
“A terrific read… The pace was fast, the characters well-developed and real.”
–The Intrigue Queen of Thriller Fiction
“Arnold touches on a subject relevant to the times with enough twists and turns to keep any reader turning page after page. The plot rushes forward at a quickening pace and comes to a surprising conclusion. It is one I did not see coming.”
–Marianne Spitzer, Bestselling author
“This was an incredible story that held my interest from the very first page… Violated by Carolyn Arnold was a top-notch thriller that left me wanting more. I will be reading the earlier books in this series ASAP! If you enjoy police/FBI procedural mystery-thrillers, this is a series you will like.”
–Brooke Blogs
“From the start, the story picks up speed as Paige is the prime suspect in a murder investigation… Full of surprises, Violated is Carolyn’s best work to date in my opinion. She clearly has done her research and could even pass as an agent herself!”
–Out There Reviews & Stuff
“Violated was filled with plenty to keep you on the edge of your seat, plenty of twists and turns throughout the book, which I love… If you like thrillers and suspense, then I recommend Violated, and although this is book [five] in the series, you don’t need to have read the others…I’m certainly going to check out past and future books by this author.”
–Slyv.net
“What the heck did I just read!!??!! This is part of a series but yet I felt that this can be read as a stand alone. But I must read the rest of the series too! This is a seat gripper! Not a book that you’ll be able to lay down easily. A page turner, a promise that you’ll finish up one more page and find yourself another chapter in! This is a MUST read!”
–Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin’
Remnants (Brandon Fisher FBI Series)
“Arnold has created a gritty nightmare of a tale that will churn the stomachs of even the most hard-boiled of FBI agents… Full of grit, gore and enough twists to make even the most diligent of readers hard-pressed to discover the villain, even the ending will keep you on pins and needles.”
–Tome Tender Book Blog
“Readers will find in Remnants an action-packed suspenseful crime novel. Set in Georgia, the FBI’s investigating a series of horrible murders. A serial killer’s handy work is appearing in the Little Ogeechee River.
“Filled with nonstop action, FBI and police procedures, Remnants will grab the reader immediately. Setting the hook in the first few pages, Arnold holds the reader in the palm of her hand as she crafts an intense thriller. With twist and turns and excellent plotting, Arnold holds the reader’s attention.
“Arnold crafted several worthy suspects in Remnants and developed them fully; never giving away the villain until absolutely necessary. Arnold gave hints throughout the story-line, but waited until she had built the suspense to high pitch before revealing the identity of the unsub. I found myself with goose bumps as Arnold described the murder scenes. Arnold descriptive prose was skillful and the story-line original. Arnold’s imagination was in full force in Remnants; who would have thought of the reason behind the kills except someone with a vivid imagination. Reader also sees the story from the killer’s perspective which greatly intensified the suspense in this story.
“I felt I was watching an episode of Criminal Minds or CSI; the story felt realistic. I felt the character were full-bodied and the police procedures accurate. Finally, in concluding my thriller suspense novel review of Remnants, I found a story which will keep you up at night. It is intense, realistic, and relates to our world today as serial killers become more prolific. I love a good crime novel and this book fits the bill.”
–Vera’s Book Reviews and Stuff
“The perfect thriller to keep you up at night…
“Switching perspectives, the readers are introduced to Brandon Fisher; an agent in the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit, along with his team. It’s Valentines Day, and what better way to spend it than to answer a call that two arms and a leg were found in a river in Georgia. Upon arriving at the crime scene the team realizes they are looking at three separate victims- the arms are missing the hands, and the leg is missing the foot.
“As any good investigative book/movie goes, the list of suspects starts wide and narrows as you go. The team starts with those closest to the site and expand their list- which includes the local Georgian banker. Interviews lead to a myriad of missing person cases with one key component…
“Please do yourself a favor, and put Remnants on your TBR list…
“As any good thriller should be, Carolyn Arnold is able to make you fear the mundane of everyday life. She takes something as simple as running an errand and has you looking over your shoulder.
“Remnants is a part of a series. While I have never read any book written by Arnold, I do believe Remnants can be read as a standalone.
“And let’s talk about that storytelling. I found Arnold’s writing to be not only engaging, but [it painted] a picture for the reader. There was never I time I felt as though she were talking over my head. All of the details were well researched. For me, I do believe that Carolyn Arnold is an up and coming author for the thriller genre.”
–Quitterstrip
“The story is written from two different points of view: Brandon’s and the murderer’s. Carolyn Arnold’s literary versatility was extremely clear, and I loved the sense of dramatic irony that got me anxiously flipping pages, wanting to know more. In a sense, we read the same story from different perspectives – we followed our hero through his investigative journey, but we also lived through the eyes of someone who had created his own reality, who had such a distorted – but hypnotizing – view of the truth.
“For Brandon’s perspective, I do feel like I enjoyed the first half better just because there was more anticipation, more mystery, and less chasing. However, I loved reading all the parts from the point of view of the perpetrator and seeing their psychological development.
“Another very unique thing about this book is that it’s not just a crime mystery; between serious tidbits, the characters talk about relationships and…you know, “feelings”. These little moments gave me more insight into the characters and made the book seem much more realistic.
“The characters were extremely complex, and I was able to see how the story extended far beyond the crime they were trying to solve. Each character had a personality, a history, and a unique voice. Even the antagonists were multifaceted, and the author’s ability to delve into each character’s psychology allowed the story to feel that much more immersive.
“This was definitely enthralling from beginning to end. The plot continued to get thicker and thicker, and I couldn’t put the book down. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes reading crime stories. Carolyn Arnold has written a thrilling mystery that will keep readers on their toes as they delve into the center of a captivating psychological nightmare.”
–Ethereal Pages
Ties that Bind (Detective Madison Knight Series)
Justified (Detective Madison Knight Series)
Sacrifice (Detective Madison Knight Series)
Found Innocent (Detective Madison Knight Series)
Just Cause (Detective Madison Knight Series)
Deadly Impulse (Detective Madison Knight Series)
“This was my first adventure into the world of Carolyn Arnold’s mystery writing, and boy am I impressed! She truly captivates the reader from start to finish…This is one book you won’t be able to put down!”
“Deadly Impulse will have your heart pounding and on the edge of your seat. Be warned though…you will get sucked in and you might even finish it in one sitting.”
“This is honestly one of the best books I have read in a while. I love watching Law and Order and Cold Case. I have honestly never read a crime novel and I didn’t think I would like that genre, but this is going to be one of my favorite authors!… This book will have you guessing who the murderer is until the very end! Rating five out of five stars!”
“The story line really captured my attention… a fun and exciting read and I look forward to reading more in the Detective Madison Knight Series.”
“This is book 6 in this series but can be read as a standalone as this was the first book in the series I have read and didn’t feel like I had missed out on some major events like you can in some books… this is a crime/murder investigation book and has a feel of CSI to it. It is fantastically written with amazing attention to detail and clearly the author has a great deal of passion for this subject… For me this is a full on 5-star read. It is everything you would expect out of a book like this.”
“This book immediately grabbed my attention and I was caught up in the story so much that I just did not want to put the book down. Madison Knight is a cynical, tough as nails detective who hates political game playing and kowtowing to her superiors. Her attitude can sometimes come across as brash, but she just wants to figure out the case and get justice for the victims.
“I loved Madison – most of the time. Her straight-arrow partner, Terry is an almost perfect match for her feisty personality. Terry’s wife is due to deliver their first child and Terry struggles to juggle home and job, even while Madison is facing down her own personal demons while trying to conquer her commitment phobia.
“I am definitely interested in reading the other books in this series. I love the fact that each book is complete and stands on its own so I can read the series out of order if I choose to.”
In the Line of Duty (Detective Madison Knight Series)
“A simply riveting read from cover to cover, In the Line of Duty clearly reveals author Carolyn Arnold to be a master of the genre with an exceptional flair for creating truly memorable characters and a roller-coaster ride of a plot with all manner of twists and turns… Very highly recommended.”
“Fans of crime fiction will be moved and enthralled by In the Line of Duty, as much an action-packed mystery as it is a heartfelt tribute to police who give up their lives to protect others.”
“This story was gut wrenching with the emotions of the police officers when an officer goes down. Madison vows to catch the shooter but the leads are all over the place. Madison and Troy’s relationship suffers as he shuts her out as the officer shot was his best childhood friend. The author did a wonderful job with the characters and their reactions and the bread crumb clues leave you entertained while not letting you know who did it. This is one book you won’t know who did it until the END!”
“This is a sobering and intriguing look at an investigation that is all too pertinent to officers who risk their lives every day… an up-close and authentic-feeling look at the process of dealing with the fatality of a fellow officer and the impact that reverberates through the entire team. The exhaustion and negative emotions that must be dealt with are vividly portrayed, as is the painstaking effort that goes into an investigation. At times it seemed that events were proceeding very ponderously but ultimately the exciting climax provided both revelations and a satisfying conclusion. I think this story will be appreciated by those who would like an in-depth look at the workings of a police force as well as those who enjoy an urban mystery.”
“The book can be read standalone if you haven’t read the others in the series. The author has done her research on how police departments run… All of the characters are well written. If you enjoy law enforcement books, you will appreciate this novel.”
“WOW. That was my first thought upon finishing this story. This was a superbly done mystery/police procedural that managed to perfectly blend action with suspense and “dead end” leads. The author also managed to tread that careful line between accurately portraying grief and loss (especially due to a line of duty death), while managing NOT to make the story depressing.
“I enjoyed these characters, the drama and tension that they brought to the story, while maintaining the camaraderie of people who work closely together each day. I also enjoyed the way the author was able to bring to life the steps and stages of an active investigation. This story was not one of those “cut and dry” stories where the culprits are easy to figure out. In fact – this one kept me guessing right up until the very end! I was also more than surprised at how the end of this story played out.
“Even though this is billed as “Madison Knight #7”, please do NOT let that discourage you from reading! I have not read any prior novels in this series, and I had no trouble at all following along. It would seem that the only thing this story has in common with the other ones is the cast of main characters.
“Overall, I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a well-written police procedural that is full of surprises! This might have been the first story in this series (and by this author) that I have read, but it will certainly NOT be the last!”
“I’m picky when it comes to police procedurals. While I love watching them, they don’t always come across well in book form for me. Either they’re lacking in character development, or the twists aren’t very twisty, or the plot drags at some point, etc. So I was a bit wary about trying In the Line of Duty. Would it work for me? Would it really live up to the claim “Police Procedurals Respected by Law Enforcement?” I’m happy to say that it did.
“I don’t want to reveal too much, but suffice to say, I enjoyed this book. The characters were nuanced and real. I could feel the grief Madison and her fellow officers were suffering due to the death of one of their own. And I could feel the urgency that they put into finding out answers. The plot twists kept coming, with red herrings and surprises keeping me (and the cops) guessing throughout the book…I greatly enjoyed reading In the Line of Duty and since this is book 7 in the series (but it still works as a standalone), I would love to read the others in order to learn more about Madison and her crew.”
“Each of the Madison Knight books work well as stand-alone novels. And, like its predecessors, In the Line of Duty lays out the cold, hard realization of life on the blue line. And, unfortunately echoes an all-too-real event in today’s world … the death of a fellow officer… I thoroughly enjoyed the character development of the heroine as she works her way through a failed relationship. It brought a new depth to the book. Author Carolyn Arnold does a wonderful job portraying what it’s like to be out there in the real world as a police officer on a day-to-day basis. Her facts are accurate and the book is well written. For fans of police procedurals, this book certainly delivers.”
“In The Line of Duty by Carolyn Arnold is the 7th book of her Madison Knight series. One thing you can be certain when reading this series; Carolyn Arnold will give us an intense exciting murder mystery, as well as provide us with accurate details pertaining to police procedurals. When it comes to police investigations & procedurals no one does it better than Arnold. Madison Knight is a tough detective, who will let nothing stand in her way to find the guilty.
“A policemen is murdered in what is suspected to be a gang killing, and the entire Stiles PD are working together to find the murderers. There were a number of twists that continued to change the game, as to who was truly behind the killing; with some surprises all the way through. In the Line of Duty was also a complete turnaround for Madison; something I have been asking for quite some time. Madison has finally found love in her boyfriend Troy, who is the leader of the Swat team. Her friend Cynthia has also stepped up to be a good friend, not to mention a great medical examiner. The Stiles PD Sergeant has finally opened his eyes as to the value of Madison as a top notch detective. Things changed in this book that I absolutely loved, and Madison finally has a team surrounding her, and the respect she so deserves. Thank you, Carolyn.
“Rather than give spoilers, In the Line of Duty was a great story, with lots of action, precise investigations, many suspects, and a team atmosphere to solve the crime. I loved seeing Madison falling in love with Troy, and finding time to care about and enjoy her friends. I enjoyed this story so much; I could not put the book down; especially with new developments changing constantly. This story was very exciting and well written. If you enjoy mysteries, murder cops, police procedurals and a tough as nails cop, then you need to be reading this series.”
“Police officers are taking a lot of heat now a days–yes there are bad cops–but many more of them are good and really do want to help and protect the general public. Personally I have a grudge against the Meter Maids–but that is a story for another day! Even when it is one of their own that has been shot down they attempt to keep a cool head–but they will track whoever did it down and as quickly as possible as this novel portrays.
“When Police Officer Barry Weir is shot down while pumping gas-he leaves behind a wife and children–and shocked and very angry coworkers. They vowed to get the person(s) who did it–and none more then Detective Madison Knight and her boyfriend Troy Mathews who is part of the SWAT team. Barry Weir and Tony were childhood friends. Tony withdraws from everything in his profound grief and concentrates only on finding out who did this.
“It appeared to be a random drive through killing by one of the local gangs possibly—-but was it? The twists and turns will have your head spinning. When the entire truth is found out–you will find yourself gasping and possibly like me shaking your head.”
“A beautiful, well-written, emotional book. I loved the mystery and the suspense. Just enough suspense and mystery to keep me loving and reading.
“This is the seventh book in the series and it’s my first book that I read. I didn’t get lost when I read it. I understood what was going on. Enjoyed the plot, characters. A very written story for sure. We all need to thank our police for doing their jobs [and for putting] their lives are on the line every day.”
“This is an insightful look into the lives and losses our country’s heroes face every day on the front lines.
“A police officer is shot down while doing something each of us do all the time without thinking twice- pumping gas into his car after a long day’s work.
“His fellow officers are shocked, saddened, and justifiably angry. They want justice for their friend, but it won’t be easy to find.
“This story is especially viable in this time period with the unrest we’ve seen on nightly news reports. The author does an impressive job with police procedures while keeping the emotions real and heart-wrenching for these characters.
“A very well-written book!”
“Although In The Line Of Duty is the seventh Detective Madison Knight novel in the series, it is the first I have read and I was glad not to have any problems with missing information spoiling the storyline. The murdered police officer narrative is entirely self-contained and cracks along at a thrillingly fast pace – so fast that at times I found myself muttering the ‘more haste, less speed’ maxim at certain characters! Our lead, Madison, is particularly headstrong and gung-ho and, while this makes for exciting fiction, I wondered how well her attitude would be tolerated in a real police station. An obligatory burgeoning romance side-story between Madison and SWAT team leader Troy adds additional heartbreak to an already emotional theme.
“I liked that Arnold doesn’t milk the emotional aspect too much. As a reader I could feel the grief of her characters and their strong sense of loss, but this was never made mawkish or excessively sentimental. I was swept up in the solving of the crime and there is a nicely tangled web of suspects and motives to unravel. Thinking back in order to write this review, there are a couple of moments that jarred and the forensic work does all seem to be completed at superhuman speed, but overall I think this is a great escapist read if readers just go with the flow and don’t question everything too deeply! I would happily read other instalments in this series.”
“An intense, action-filled police procedural, In the Line of Duty by Carolyn Arnold, is filled with colorful characters, good dialogue, a solid mystery and plenty of emotional angst. While this is the seventh book in the Madison Knight series, this is a book which can be read on its own. If you like reading solid mysteries, a strong female protagonist, and police procedurals with plenty of action, this is a book and series you will definitely want to check out.
“Ms. Arnold does a great job introducing her main character, Madison Knight, right from the start. A single, female detective, Madison is a hard working detective, who is giving romance, with a fellow cop, a second chance. I easily connected with Madison right from the start; she’s had to work hard to prove herself in a job still mainly occupied by men and has also had to deal with family, which is less than thrilled about her dangerous profession. A fact which becomes the focus of this installment as Madison, and her fellow cops, are forced to deal with the murder of one of their own. As Madison begins the investigation she’s upset at the loss of a fellow officer, thankful that her boyfriend Troy, the leader of the S.W.A.T. team wasn’t a victim, and filled with anger that someone would shoot a cop in the line of duty.
“The secondary characters are well developed and while most of them are recurring characters, Ms. Arnold does a good job introducing them, and their role in Madison’s life, so that new readers don’t get lost. I especially liked getting to know Troy better, and watching Madison’s natural skills as a leader take charge. The mystery is well developed and at the start there are plenty of suspects and possible motives. As Madison and the rest of the squad continue to investigate the shooting, it becomes clear that gangs are involved and that the police have a target painted on their backs.
“The story’s pace is fairly rapid and Ms. Arnold’s voice as an author is strong and very easy to follow. There are several twists and turns, some that made me wonder if Madison and her team were looking at the right suspects, which kept me glued to the pages of the story. There is plenty of action and a lot of emotional angst as the officers go about the investigation while dealing with grief and the emotional fallout that this type of situation brings about. It’s hard to convince your family that others need you “to protect and serve” while someone is shooting your fellow cops and your family wonders if you will make it back home alive.
“Will Madison discover who killed her fellow officer and why? Will her romance with Troy, a fellow cop, survive the investigation? You’ll have to read In the Line of Duty to find out. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next installment in this thrilling series.”
“Anyone who loves police procedures will love this book. It takes you in a step by step sequence to show you how the police operate and how they conduct investigations. And in this book, the investigation is dear to the hearts of the entire police force as they hunt for a cop killer.
“The plot of the story is complex with many layers which makes the investigation even more complicated. It’s headed by Madison Knight and Troy Matthews who previously entered into a relationship that is complicated by past hurts and disappointments. Their fears are exacerbated by the loss of one of their own, and whether they’ll survive as a couple is in some question.
“The book is suspenseful as the investigation moves to its conclusion, and you find yourself hoping for a satisfactory ending. It’s a good read that I enjoyed. 5 stars.”
“This book was such a good book. I started it Thursday night, and finished it Friday evening. It was fantastic!… This book absolutely kept me guessing until the killer was revealed. I felt that the story was very well written. The twists and turns will leave your head spinning, in a good way. I had my guesses throughout the book who could have done such a hateful crime, and I was wrong every time. I’ll be honest, and say that when the book was almost over and they were going through the funeral for a cop, I teared up.
“Prior to reading this book, I had no ideas that it was a part of a series. I don’t think I would have ever guessed it was a part of a series, because I felt like the author clued us in on everything we needed to know, and didn’t leave anything out.”
“This was my first read of Carolyn Arnolds and I enjoyed it so much. As a massive fan of Blue Bloods and Chicago P.D., I figured this would be a great read! And I was right!!
“I loved Detective Madison Knight’s character, she was totally badass and goes in guns blazing! There is so much packed into this read with chasing leads that ended up getting us nowhere and I found myself getting just as frustrated as the characters. Just when I though YES they got him, something else was thrown into the works and it was back to square one all over again and the drawing board.
“I’ll tell you one thing though this book definitely kept me on my toes, it wasn’t boring at all. Packed full of action and suspense you will get into this just as much as Carolyn Arnolds characters and that just goes to show what an amazing writer she is. The drama and tension will keep you turning the pages until the very end. It is an emotional read at times as they each deal with the loss of their “Fallen Brother”, but it’s especially hard for Madison as the officer shot was her partner, Troy’s, childhood best friend. Madison and Troy’s relationship takes its toll as he pushes her away and that leads Madison to do everything and anything to catch the killer, so they better watch out……
“I would definitely recommend reading this book even though it says book #7 that is OK as this was my first read in the series and the author makes it really easy to follow.”
“I am a huge fan of suspense and mystery novels. In the Line of Duty is a great story that had me on the edge of my seat… this story was filled with emotions and it is very well written. This story had me wondering what came next in some parts and had me crying in others. Carolyn Arnold did a great job with the plot and the characters!
“This is the seventh book in this series, however it is the first I have read. I liked that I never felt lost or not sure of what was going on. So this is definitely a great stand alone read. Even though I don’t have to, I will be reading the other six books though because I really liked this one.”
“When Detective Madison Knight received the call that a fellow officer was shot, she had no idea just how much it would impact her emotionally. As Madison works feverishly following leads and suspects, she has to keep her emotions in check personally, as well as emotionally… This was a fast paced story, with a roller coaster of emotions.”
“A hard hitting, emotional novel which covers the true meaning of comradeship and team spirit. The loss of a close colleague stirs the full range of emotions from anger to sorrow. It also tears the relationship within the investigation squad to pieces.
“The excellent descriptive writing brings the characters to life and the most impressive part of it is the human element that is portrayed and will touch the heartstrings of the reader. The investigation route takes us on a roller coaster of ride through a page turning twister of a thriller. You get a real feeling of what it is like to work and live in a close community like the police force, where everyone knows each other’s families and the tragedy runs deep.
“A riveting read and if you like a thriller you need to read this book.”
In the Line of Duty is the seventh book in the Detective Madison Knight series. Having never read the previous books in the series, I was a bit worried that I would not be able to follow the story. However, my worries were unnecessary. This book can be read as a stand-alone.
“This story is a demonstration of what the persons who swore to protect and serve face on a daily basis. It also demonstrates the trauma and turmoil they face when one of theirs is taken down by ruthless criminals. This was a story of real human emotions that hit too close to home.
What stood out most to me in this story is the manner in which grief can either bring people together or pull them apart. In this instance, I saw officers who could barely tolerate each other, working together to achieve a common goal. Also, I saw the toll it took on Madison’s relationship with her significant other.
“The characters were interesting, but the one that stood out for me was Madison. She was a kickass detective who was fearless, strong-willed and tenacious. She followed all possible leads as she was committed to solving this case. She confronted everything head on. I loved how the author portrayed both her personal and professional life. It shows her struggling to gain approval from her mom who does not approve of her career choice. This showed that there is a sensitive side to her kickass detective who was fearless, strong-willed and tenacious. She followed all possible leads as she was committed to solving this case. She confronted everything head on. I loved how the author portrayed both her personal and professional life. It shows her struggling to gain approval from her mom who does not approve of her career choice. This showed that there is a sensitive side to her.
“The story was gripping. I could not wait to find out who was responsible for the killing and what was the motive. There were so many possible suspects. Just when I thought I had it figured out another suspect was thrown into the mix. When all was revealed I was in utter shock as I never saw it coming.
“I am impressed with her writing style and how she portrays her characters. It is evident that she had done her due diligence before putting pen to paper. Her attention to detail was on point and the way she described each scene made me feel as if I was actually there.
“This is a must read for fans of police procedurals.”
“A gripping story with a few twists and turns along the way… Arnold creates characters with depth. Written in a way that keeps you engaged and wanting to know what happens next, the author creates cohesive dialogue that is enjoyable to read.
“You could feel the tension leap from the page and that made the read so much more intriguing. Even though this is the seventh book in the Madison Knight series, this is my first Carolyn Arnold book. That being said, it will not be my last.”
“I absolutely loved this book. I have not read any other books in the series, but I will certainly make an effort to seek them out now! I could see it being a movie. I even have an idea of who could play some of the characters, but I will keep that to myself for now. I thought it was great that the author makes such an effort to do her research on police procedures. I also love that I was kept guessing as to who might have done it, and I was surprised when the full story was laid out. Definitely not who I was expecting!… Carolyn Arnold is now on my list of authors to read more work from. And Madison is a great character that I will be following from now on!”
“Carolyn Arnold has created an undeniably, great read that you won’t put down…. The time and effort put into learning “behind the scenes” police operations is a big plus for creating an accurate story-line that will resonate with readers who have a sense of respect for police officers. From page one, I fancied myself as a detective to become ‘involved’ in the story. By the end of the book, I am about 95% positive that I would have been fired for my lack of discovery. The twists and suspense had my head spinning and just when I thought I had it all figured out, the finale made me exhale with a resounding, “Whoa!
“Madison’s character is extremely well-written and realistic. She encompasses what all women should strive to become — an independent thinker, strong-willed, dedicated, hardworking and yet, still holds onto a tiny piece of hope in the dream of acceptance from her mother.
“Don’t miss out on the chance to grab this book! You’ll immediately find yourself immersed!”
Life Sentence (Detective Madison Knight Series)
The Day Job is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
Vacation is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
Money is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
Politics is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
“Politics is Murder is fun with a thrill, as well as an entertaining and fast read, making you want to read more.”
“Politics is Murder is another fun and exciting installment in the McKinley Mysteries series that brings a flair of political heat to the mix that kept me guessing right up until the heart-pounding conclusion.”
“Politics is Murder is fun with a thrill, as well as an entertaining and fast read, making you want to read more.”
Family is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
“I was drawn in [by] Carolyn’s smooth writing, her interesting characters, and the nice pace of the story which included some well-done twists and turns. Before I knew it I’d read the entire book… You know that big smile you wear after you just finish a good book? The one that seems to cement the mood for the rest of the day? Well, that’s what I felt after reading Family is Murder. I can honestly tell you to grab a copy, you won’t be disappointed.”
“A fun read, well written which will totally entertain you. Better than a TV show!”
“Family is Murder offers food for thought with a thrill, being an entertaining and fast read, making you want to read more.”
Shopping is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
“Got to tell you readers that this is the perfect mystery to sink into and get away from the stress of shopping and the other holiday season activities! There are enough clues to keep you interested, along with the details of routine procedures that help the story move forward, and still keep you in suspense and turning the pages until the surprising climax occurs… I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it”
Christmas is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
“Everything you could want in a Christmassy novella and more! The opening sentence sets the scene for comfort (and joy!) by entering in a wintery wonderland of falling snow and heading out to pick up a Christmas tree – I was immediately excited. Although the direct storyline is in relation to the “suspicious” house fire of Sean and Sara’s neighbors, it never did take away from the Christmassy aspect. The descriptive words and sentences used throughout for people, places and things was so pleasant and allowed for an easy visual follow along. Both main characters, Sean and Sara are very likable – as were Sara’s parents. I especially liked her dad! This story kept my interest throughout with the little twists. I loved the humor with the blinking nose and hoofs, the chase at the parade and the little jokes between Sean and Sara. I definitely think this cozy mystery will bring a smile to your face and is perfect for a quick read to get you in that holiday spirit! I have not read any of the McKinley Series novellas before, but plan to do so! I’d like to know the back-story of Sara’s adoption, their police work etc. Carolyn Arnold will be an author for my list for sure!!”
“A heartwarming tale…warm and fuzzy…a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.”
Valentine’s Day is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
“It’s a [fast mystery] to read but very exciting, set in beautiful Jamaica.”
“…a fun romantic cozy mystery set in the beautiful resort area of Jamaica. There was lots of action and danger… Plenty of twists and turns in the plot led to the surprise ending.”
“A fun, fast read, that will bring me back for more of this series.”
“…a satisfying cozy mystery that reads quickly and is perfect for curling up for an afternoon and losing yourself in.”
“It was full of adventure and mystery along with some romance. It pulls you in and won’t give up until everyone is safe and sound! Definitely a great cozy series!”
“This was a quick, enjoyable read.”
“Arnold did a fabulous job with her 130+ pages and I didn’t feel like the plot or character development suffered. The twists and turns were well done and the reveal was actually a surprise.”
“Not sure if I have ever laughed as much reading as I have with this one. This book will take you through laughter, mystery and intrigue. It gives you a little romance. And enough to keep you reading and wanting more. This is a page turner! If you haven’t read it yet, you are really missing out!”
“This is a fast-paced novella, giving one no time to lay on the beach, unless it is YOU, the reader, enjoying this well written suspenseful thriller.”
“There was plenty of humor, romance, danger and surprises all the way through until the very end. Definitely one of the best of the series and a must-read for those seeking a lighthearted romantic mystery with a dash of danger.”
Coffee is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
Skiing is Murder (McKinley Mysteries)
City of Gold (Mathew Connor Adventure Series)
“I am new to this author, but won’t be a stranger for long, this is easily one of the best books I will read all year. The first paragraph sucks you in and then hang on for a nonstop, pulse-pounding ride. Matthew Connor is an archaeologist. He and his closest friends Robyn, the curator of a major metropolitan museum and Cal, a travel photographer, make up a treasure hunting team, the likes of which would make Indiana Jones proud. Like Indy, Matt has a nemesis who doesn’t mind playing dirty to get the goods. When Cal’s girlfriend Sophie is kidnapped in order to retrieve an artifact the team had found, the team must make a trek into the South American Jungle to find the fabled Incan lost City of Gold to use as leverage to get her back.
“The first thing that struck me about this story was how it appeals to the five senses. I could feel bullets whipping by and hear the splintering of the trees. I could smell the perfumed guests at the party. I was trapped in underground tunnels and felt my heart bursting for air while under feet of water. This was an interactive reading experience. The characters are brought to a life-like status. Each carries his or her own emotional attachment for the readers and none are unimportant. One would expect Matt and his team to carry the story with their adventures, with tagalong bad guys, into the jungle and underground caves with all the inherent dangers and traps along away the way, and they do. However, just as much is taking place back in Toronto where police and Matt’s team are closing in on their investigation of Sophie’s disappearance. There wasn’t a dull moment in this book. I highly recommend this high-octane thriller.”
“City of Gold by Carolyn Arnold is the 1st book in her new Matthew Connor Adventure series. I have read two of Carolyn’s other series, which are Police/FBI themed stories. It was a surprise that she was going a different direction with this new series, which is more like an Indiana Jones mystery archaeology theme; especially since Arnold is one of the best at police stories, with her wonderful knowledge of police procedurals. I am happy to say, even to my own surprise, that I really enjoyed City of Gold.
“An exciting action packed adventure that will take Matthew, Robyn and Cal to Bolivia…to try to find the City of Gold. For every step they take, danger and death threaten from all sides. The adventure was pulsating, and Arnold does a fantastic job of taking us through the jungle, caves, underground with many traps along the way… This was a fun and exciting book, which I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed so much. I look forward to more from the Matthew Connor Adventure series. Carolyn Arnold has another winner.”