Readers old and new of this long-running futuristic police drama will love this book! J.D. Robb gives readers a veritable slam-dunk in this pivotal addition to the Eve Dallas series. Innocent in Death is chock full of plenty of relationship angst between Eve and the luscious Roarke, as well as a mystery that leaves our favorite lieutenant grasping at straws. Some of Robb’s most beloved and entertaining characters make appearances, including the pithy, sweet Peabody, goofily-dressed McNab, trusty Trueheart, slick-talking Baxter and an appearance of a very maternal Mavis. It was like coming home and finding friends waiting for you!

When Eve and Peabody are called to the scene of a homicide that leaves them little room to maneuver and few clues to pursue, they’re perplexed. A popular young male teacher is found dead as a result of ingesting a bad dose of hot chocolate, but who could want such a promising life snuffed out? Eve must once again find a killer before the victims start piling up, even as she is confronted with a gorgeous blonde-haired woman from Roarke’s past who’d like to renew his acquaintance in the most basic sense. Juggling murder, marital woes and the ever-present malevolent flashbacks from her past, Eve sets out to stand once more for the dead…and keep her man in the process.

It was poignant, heartwarming and the teensiest bit uncomfortable to see Eve as a person with needs, as the person under the booty-kicking homicide detective. Her insecurity and wounded soft center just made me respect and identify with her more, and it was refreshing to see her and Roarke have to work hard to right their world. Ms. Robb continues taking us to places we’ve never been in Innocent in Death, and doing it with such an unforgettable, spectacular flair. Five Angels and a Recommended Read!!!

Reviewed by: Michelle