Crime

Festive in Death
3 Stars

Eve and company investigate the murder of a personal trainer with a mean streak. The question arises as to who didn't want the jerk dead.

A solid installment although to be perfectly honest, the victim is such a nasty piece of work that it is difficult to summon up much sympathy for him. The twist at the end is pretty good although it isn't all that surprising.

The Christmas shopping/party scenes are cute and add a festive air to the book.
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In this 39th book in the In Death series Eve is getting ready for Christmas when she catches a case. Her hair and body consultant, the terrifying Trina, discovers the body of a personal trainer who had just broken off a relationship with a friend of hers.

The more Eve learns about the murdered Trey Ziegler, the less she likes him. He was a narcissistic user who drugged, raped and blackmailed. The list of women he did wrong and the men in their lives is really, really long. She has quite an array of suspects. As she and Peabody interview the variety of cheating spouses, Eve takes the time to articulate her views of marriage and the promises that are its core.

As the list of suspects narrow and Christmas gets closer, Eve is determined to get things done before the holidays. I love Eve's relationships with her friends. She is still getting used to the idea of having friends, of letting people into her life. I love how well she knows them and how she manages to get each one the perfect Christmas gift despite waiting until the last minute to get them.

I also love Eve's relationship with Roarke. Neither one of them takes the relationship they have for granted. Both are willing to work to keep it. I love the way that they continue to surprise and delight each other.

This is a marvelous series. I read it because I love Eve and Roarke. The mysteries are a side issue for me. This one had an intriguing one that kept me guessing up until the end. I can't wait to see what comes next. ( )

Another great book. Love this series. ( )

Eve and Roarke never disappoint, nor does J. D. Robb. Another excellent addition to the series. ( )