Customer Reviews

Deadly Sins (The Mindhunters)

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

*2.5 Stars*

I knew going into this book that the romance would not be a central feature, because that was the case with Deadly Dreams. But I didn't expect it to be even more lacking than it was the last time. I was really looking forward to getting to know the Mindhunters boss, Adam Raiker, and watching him fall in love. But I ended the book feeling like I still didn't know him very well and that he never had much of a romance.

The suspense aspect of the book was really well done. It wasn't as fast paced and action filled as I personally prefer, but I imagine it reflects actual police work and crime solving more accurately. It was filled with procedure and small details that aren't exactly exciting, but are very necessary. Reports are filed nightly and the investigators' actions are always checked by what they are and are not given permission to do by the Assistant Director. Adam is able to get around this more often than Jaid and the other partner are, but even he has to be very careful about what he does, so as not to give the Assistant Director an excuse to kick him off the case.

I thought I knew who the killer was quite a few times, but something else would always crop up to change my mind and make me guess someone else. I did guess who the killer was, but I had moved past that person and on to a new one, so I suppose it doesn't count. I liked the grisly nature of the case and trying to solve it alongside the characters, but at times I felt a little bored. But that was because of the focus on the procedural process instead of the action. I think if you're more of a fan of that than I am then you won't have the same problem.

I was disappointed in the lack of romance in the last book, but I liked that the author showed us the characters' world outside of the case. I felt that those details were lacking in this book. We saw Jaid call her kid a few times and try to juggle babysitting, but those details felt hollow and lacking any real depth. I never felt I got to know Jaid or Adam very well, which is a shame because I would think that a man who could survive so many assassination attempts, and still get up every morning without fear, is a very fascinating man indeed. And this is a second-chance-romance where one side was very unwilling to break up. Where is the emotion? Where is tension? There was none, and I was a tad bitter over the lack.

I was more forgiving of the lack of romance in the last book, Deadly Dreams, but since this one had even less than that, I feel I have the right to gripe. Why is this billed as a Romantic Suspense if no time is spent developing the characters or the romance? I've heard Romance referred to as an emotional voyeur's paradise, and I can't say I'd argue that description. I want to know this hero and heroine inside and out and feel invested in their relationship. I want to understand why they are behaving in certain ways without it having to be spelled out to me. I want development and tension and intensity. I just want a Romance, people! And I want all that while still having a banging suspense plot. It's why I picked up a book in the genre, after all.

The lack of character depth made me feel a bit like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book. I go into a movie knowing that I am not going to get any personal insight into a character--unless they're narrating it, of course. I know that the only depth I'll get is the kind that I am shown through their actions and other characters' comments about them. But that's okay, because I knew that going in. It's all about expectations. I expect more than that when I read a book. Especially when I don't have any vocal inflections or facial expressions to analyze, like I would in a movie. I just have these words that are supposed to suck me in and make me a part of the world. You can't just say:


"He hadn't made a move since that was less than circumspect. But there was a renewed awareness between them. A current that snapped and sparked to life at the oddest moments. She'd intercepted a couple odd looks from Shepherd lately, as if he, too, had picked up on it."


and leave it at that. Why didn't you show me these glances? How come another character has picked up on it when I have seen nothing to indicate this? I need to be shown, not just told.

I think that the author does a good job with the suspense aspect of the book and that the Suspense genre is really where the book belongs, not the Romantic Suspense one. I can't see myself picking up any more books by this author, though, because I look for more of a focus on the romance than Brant seems to prefer to write.

Favorite Quote:

"You didn't lose me, Adam. You pushed me away. There's a difference between the tragedies that befall us and the ones we bring on ourselves."


Review posted on Fiction Vixen.

The assassin kills high profile targets in the DC area with the latest execution being Supreme Court Justice Byron Reinbeck; the killer leaves behind a calling card, one of the Deadly Sins and provides links to former FBI Agent Adam Raiker. The late Judge's widow of twenty-five years Mary Jo asks Adam of Raiker Forensics to join the special task force, which he does.

Also on the special investigative unit is Adam's ex lover FBI agent Jaid Marlowe. Adam takes pride in keeping emotional baggage and bias out of the inquiries but with Jaid at his side his cold resolve is shattered by desire. She has a similar problem as her assignment is to watch Adam who is becoming the prime suspect.

This exhilarating Mindhunter romantic suspense (see Deadly Intent and Deadly Dreams) is a terrific thriller that contains too many subplots to keep track of but as they merge together into a strong entry fans will marvel at Kylie Brant's delightful juggling. Adam and Jaid are a wonderful second chance couple, but neither lose sight of taking down the brilliant mastermind behind the killings. Filled with twists, Deadly Sins is a superb cat and mouse police procedural.

Harriet Klausner

I have been curious about Adam Raiker's story since Waking Nightmare, and it was well worth the wait. Deadly Sins opens a few months after the end of Deadly Dreams, in which Adam was targeted by an assassin. Jaid Marlowe was introduced at the end of DD, and in Deadly Sins, she and Adam are thrown together to investigate a series of murders. On top of the suspected serial killer roaming DC, Adam's assassin seems to be back. There are so many different strands coming together to create a tightly woven mystery. The story just does not let up from the beginning to the end. There are so many possible suspects that make sense to the story. I like the way the author throws out information, gives clues that seem conclusive, but in the end, can be seen in a whole different light that still makes perfect sense. I usually figure out a mystery in the first quarter of the book. I didn't figure this out until almost the end, nor did I feel that the villian was "forced". The resolution felt realistic.

Adam is a real Alpha, closed off and in control. Layers of Adam's history are peeled back throughout the book. Honestly, I thought he was remarkably healthy mentally given all of the trauma he has endured. I was more impressed by his admission that his experiences made him able to open up to Jaid whereas if he hadn't suffered, he may not have been able or willing to act on his feelings for her. I liked the acknowledgement of how the past shapes future choices. I like that a younger, less physically damaged, Adam is shown as being unwilling and/or unable to commit to Jaid. Is his inability due to his childhood, or is he just not willing to settle down? His reasoning felt kind of nebulous, but it worked. Seldom in real life is there a single reason a relationship fails. It felt like a wrong time/wrong place thing. Very realistic and believable.

FBI Special Agent Jaid Marlowe has come into her own since she and Adam parted ways. She is such a strong, smart heroine. Jaid is savvy, and not above being a little sneaky if the occasion calls for it. Adam admires that about her, actually. She has residual feelings for Adam from 8 years ago, but her responsibilities make her reluctant to get close to Adam again.

I liked Jaid and Adam together. I bought the history between them, and the chemistry was evident. Unlike some reunion stories, Deadly Sins read as a story of a past love. Jaid and Adam did not just pick up as if they had broken up yesterday. There is a distance, yet they know each other so well. Jaid and Adam try to find a comfortable balance as intimate strangers. There are repeated references to them understanding how each other's minds work. When they finally do progress to a physical level with a kiss...whoa! So sexy, my glasses steamed up! From a kiss! When they progressed to bedroom activities, well...Not only was it hawt, it was lovely, and emotional and touching.

Deadly Sins was a fast read, intricate and smart. I liked the mystery and I liked the romance, as well. Kylie Brant's characters are multi-faceted, interesting and compelling. It was nice to touch base with characters from the previous novels in the Waking and Deadly series. Deadly Sins can be read as a stand alone, but would probably make more of an emotional impact if the other books in the series are read first.

FBI agent Jaid Marlowe's latest assignment has her working alongside infamous forensic criminologist Adam Raiker on a high-profile case. Eight years ago, Jaid and Adam had an affair that left her heart broken when Adam ended things. Working with Adam again may cost her more than her heart this time when the killer sets his sights on them.

Deadly Sins gives readers the long awaited details surrounding Adam Raiker's dramatic and mysterious past. Adam and Jaid are compelling characters: Adam for his taciturn nature and the disfiguring injuries he suffered at the hand of a serial killer, and Jaid for her secrecy and resiliency. Adam unceremoniously broke Jaid's heart and yet their chemistry never faded, if anything, it seemed to get stronger. Their tumultuous past and the prospect of their future is riveting. Deadly Sins is a complex story full of suspense and intrigue. Twists and turns in the plot kept me guessing until the end. Fans of the Mindhunters will not want to miss Deadly Sins.

Reviewed by Nannette
For Joyfully Reviewed

"And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course."
- by Khalil Gibran -

4 1/2 stars.

Loved it! So engaging although I do have a minor complaint. So, let's cut to the chase of the matter.

Deadly Sins is book 6 in Kylie Brant's suspense series "The Mindhunters". This book starts off with the cold-blooded murder of Supreme Court Justice Byron Reinbeck. Adam Raiker, ex FBI agent and founder of Raiker Forensics, is a close friend of Byron's family. The widow, Mary Jo Reinbeck, asks him to be part of the task force to investigate this high profile murder.

Adam:
Some decisions, made for the best of reasons, left haunting remorse in their wake. This one didn't even require a second thought. "I'll do everything I can."

When he checks out the scene photos he sees the white index card encased in a plstic Ziploc bag. On it is scrawled one word in what looks to be red marker. Wrath.
The murder is related to the seven deadly sins.

Joining him in this investigation is FBI agent Jaid Marlowe. Adam and Jaid had a brief but intense love affair 8 years ago. As a matter of fact, Jaid got orders to spy on Adam. While working together, Adam realizes that he still has strong feelings for Jaid. The bodies start to pile up and each victim is related to a deadly sin. Adam and Jaid have to realize that someone from Adam's past is once again stalking and challenging him.

The author doesn't make the relationship between Adam and Jaid a central aspect of the story. Although she does intertwine it with the plot. It grows rather slowly but steadily and naturally as does the sexual tension. That's my minor complaint - I wanted more romance in this story! The storyline itself is superb and would have been fantastic with a bit more romance thrown in! The main couple is an interesting mixture of contrasts. Adam is the secretive, closed-off kind of guy. It's difficult for Jaid to reach him. Adam doesn't like to talk about himself or personal matters, that is. Jaid challenges Adam constantly in ways no one else would dare but they're really wonderful together and I think they fit perfectly. It was satisfying to see how they got to know each other AGAIN and past emotions and feelings surface as strong as ever. Jaid is an intelligent, strong, and determined woman. She knows what she wants. I liked to see how they danced around each other and have to succumb to their attraction eventually.

I loved Adam. He went through hell and back. It's astounding what he had to endure in his life and it is so satisfying to see that he not only survived but how he lives his life now. Adam, you're amazing! It was so rewarding to see that he found his love - he deserved it and needed it badly!

As I already mentioned before, this book is much more about suspense than romance - unfortunately. Nevertheless, I have to admit that when Adam and Jaid had their get-together they were able to generate quite some heat!

Ms. Brant has created a multilayered and complex world filled with criminal masterminds, corrupt government officials, and the people who hunt them down. I'm not an expert of police procedures, therefore I cannot say if everything was correct. However, it definitely reads realistically and the author seems to have a vast knowledge of all those procedures. I loved the dialogs; they're smooth and interesting and it allows the reader to slip right into the thrilling storyline. I was totally hooked right from the start! The plot is not all that fast in the beginning, but when it picks up speed, the suspense follows suit and I was looking forward to the final highlight. The ending comes quite fast when Adam and Jaid make the final connection and the Raiker Forensics agents come together to catch the evil villain.

Memorable "quotes"/lines:

[...]The first touch of her fingers against his bare chest had him jerking against her. The next had a dash of cold water rushing through his veins. His hand came up to catch hers. To halt it. And the look they shared in the semidarkness was full of unspoken understanding.
"Adam." It was the softness in her voice that undid him. Coupled by a lack of the pity that would have wounded far worse than LeCroix's sharpest blade. He tugged off the shirt, let it fall. Steeled himself for her reaction.[...]

[..]You didn't lose me, Adam. You pushed me away. There's a difference between the tragedies that befall us and the ones we bring on ourselves."[...]

[...]I have no idea what it is with these people. I send them out on assignment, and they come back wanting to get married." He looked honestly baffled. "Damnedest thing I ever saw."
"Yeah." Kell's voice was good-natured. "We're all waiting for the time when you meet your match and we can all..." He was interrupted then by Paulie's fit of coughing. "Geez, Paulie, don't lose a lung." Burke gave the man a companionable thump on the back.[...]

[...]The brush of his lips across her forehead was whisper light. "Love and sex just muddy the issue." Immediately recognizing his soft repeated phrase, she supplied the rest of the quote. "People always see much clearer without either clouding their instincts." He'd preached that time and again in classes. On the job. "I heard a brilliant investigator say that once."
"Too bad he can't take his own advice."[...]

If you don't mind to read a 'romantic' suspense book which is much stronger in the suspense department then I'd highly recommend you to read Deadly Sins. It's a thrilling and engrossing read with all-around interesting characters and really detailed police procedures. Enjoy!(less)

I enjoy Kylie Brant's books and this one was no exception. Well written, tight plot, good dialogue, characters from previous books added interest. Kept me guessing as to who was the bad guy. But have to raise one small criticism - sloppy editing. One suspect was called Don Vale for 2 pages, all of a sudden over the page he is Walt. I was momentarily confused thinking this was a different person but no the same but inexplicably re-named. Then he was Donald and later Walter. This sort of editing error is very irritating in an otherwise excellent book.

When I received the review request for Deadly Sins I was thrilled. Romantic Suspense was my "first love" of reading when I was a kid. So it seemed fitting that I would wrap myself around this story.

To put it simply - AMAZING!! Truly AMAZING! Deadly Sins is book 6 in the The Mindhunter Series, but that didn't matter. It read well as a stand alone novel. There were a few points in the plot where I wondered if more details were available in previous books, but it was mainly my curiosity rather than a flaw in the story.

The main characters, Jaid and Adam, worked well together in this story and felt like a complete role-reversal from what you would normally see in romantic suspense novels. Jaid was the FBI agent and Adam was the ex-FBI agent who was damaged. Both physically and emotionally. Typically it's the female who's still dealing with emotional issues and I love how Brant made Jaid stand out from the crowd. She strong, capable and able to hold her own. Don't get me wrong - Adam is no wimp! Even with his physical injuries, he still stands out as a man to be reckoned with.

Deadly Sins has an intricately woven plot that really keeps you guessing. Secondary characters aren't thrown into the story hap hazardously; they actually add strong richness to the story line and help to keep it moving quickly.

I was sad to see that Deadly Sins is the conclusion to The Mindhunter series. I didn't get that from the book, but only found out while preparing to write my review. Personally, I loathe starting a series at the end. It can be a total buzzkill. BUT Deadly Sins was so good, packed with action, suspense, grisly murders (and the like) -- I'm going to have to pick up Waking Nightmare, Book 1. Each book in the series focus' on a character introduced in Deadly Sins. I need the WHOLE story!

DEADLY SINS intrigues from the very start and continues to keep your full concentration until every mystery is resolved. The sixth Mindhunters book has a murderous whodunit in the first scene, and there will be countless unknowns arising all throughout the story to make the investigation not only frustrating but way too personal. Kylie Brant vividly makes her romantic suspense story convincingly believable with realistic situations and true-to-life reactions from the characters.

When a good friend of Adam Raiker is killed, his widow wants him to work with the FBI on the case. Since the murdered man was a Supreme Court Justice, the case is high profile and answers need to be discovered quickly. Adam was a former agent but now has his own agency called Raiker Forensics, a consulting firm which is known for getting answers if there is any way for them to be found. He finds himself once again working closely with Jaid Marlowe, an agent whom he came to know very well years ago but does not plan on letting their previous relationship interfere in any way as they investigate together.

A key piece of evidence is a note left with the body, and the word on it is one of the seven deadly sins according to religion. When more mysterious murders occur, Adam and Jaid look for connections and surprisingly facts keep leading back to him and a former case. While they keep digging to learn more about several suspects, old memories also keep intruding in their thoughts. Though neither wants to revisit the painful angst they suffered when they parted, Adam and Jaid find it difficult to keep their emotions in check, especially when danger threatens either of them.

The Mindhunters series by Kylie Brant is an imaginative creation of suspenseful stories. Every book in this series has been inventive in concept, and the mysteries in each one are carefully plotted out to keep the reader guessing until the very last. Though there are some cleverly cryptic clues in DEADLY SINS, I certainly could not be certain about the identity of the killer until all is shockingly revealed. Ms. Brant is a master at keeping things just vague enough to let you know some the frightening thoughts in the evil mind of the perpetrator without actually giving away his or her name, and this makes her books particularly attention-grabbing. As facts are learned in this story, it seemed there was always another question popping up to make the investigation remain baffling and very challenging. How Adam and Jaid worked together was shown through genuine responses, both verbally and actions, and there is never a time when I did not think someone would in fact react accordingly. I have always been fascinated by Adam and the way he kept his feelings from being exposed in any way, and having to work with Jaid let me see a side of him that would normally not be observable. These two characters play very well off each other, and their intelligence is evident on quite a few occasions while their passionate natures are expressed with much intensity. Before the story concluded, individuals from previous books make an appearance, and it was fabulous getting to see how they were all currently doing. DEADLY SINS is packed with suspenseful scenarios where many of their outcomes are never known until the last second.

Single Titles review

This was a well-written romantic suspense story with engaging characters and a really creepy plot. Someone shoots a Supreme Court Justice and sets off a major investigation involving the FBI, Homeland Security, the US Marshall's Service and just about every other law enforcement agency in existence. Also involved because he is friends with the victim is Adam Raiker who is a former FBI agent who left the agency to start his own security firm. When the widow pulls strings to get him into the investigation, he is paired with Jaid Marlowe who was a former colleague and ex-lover.


The tension is high between Adam and Jaid as they must work together. Adam had forced Jaid out of his life both to protect her and to protect his own secrets. He is a very closed individual who doesn't share anything about his past. He is also in lots of danger and wants to keep her safe. Jaid is no delicate flower. She is an experienced and competent FBI agent. She is more than willing to question Adam's decisions which makes her very different than Adam's other colleagues.

The story had an interesting cast of characters including the FBI agent who was once Adam's partner and who is now in charge of the investigation of the Justice's death, the priest who acted as a friend and mentor of the young Adam and who has now made some questionable choices, the partner of Adam's who might just have a serious gambling problem.

Then there is the villain who is a criminal mastermind responsible for the deaths of five people and who is determined to pin the crime on Adam. The story refers to lots of events that happened in the past but I never felt lost or confused. Enough information was given to make me feel like I knew enough. However, I did immediately go out and buy the other five books in the Mindhunters series.

The writing style was clean and crisp. I liked the balance between dialog and description. The pacing was fast and furious as the story continued. I recommend this story to lovers of romantic suspense even though the actual romance didn't kick in until 60% of the story was told. The tension between Adam and Jaid was built nicely through the story.