Tag Archives: Cassidy & Spenser

Countdown by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Countdown by Carey Baldwin – a Review

 

CountdownAmazon / B&N / Kobo

Description:
Don’t believe everything you see.

Special Agent Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy are in Tahiti enjoying a much-needed break from the FBI when they spot newlyweds taking fun photos on the beach. But as the groom carries his bride deeper into the waves, Spense is positive he sees a flash of terror cross her face. All his instincts scream that this woman is in danger. Yet moments later, it’s the groom who has nearly drowned… and the bride has vanished, leaving a bloody wedding dress floating in her wake.

The authorities aren’t sure who to believe—the groom, who insists his wife tried to murder him… or her twin, who claims her sister must have acted in self-defense. Intrigued, Spense and Caity agree to help investigate. But when they discover that the missing bride is the daughter of a notorious confidence man, they begin to suspect that all is not what it seems. Now they’ll need to separate victim from villain, fact from fiction, truth from lie, to determine if there’s really a killer on the loose… or if it’s all one big con.

 

 

Review:

Countdown is the final installment of the fabulous Cassidy and Spenser Thrillers series by the wonderful, Carey Baldwin. I have had the tremendous pleasure of reading, and reviewing, this incredible series since its introduction, and this finale is Carey Baldwin‘s swan song to Atticus and Caitlin. It’s never easy to say goodbye to characters, but the joy they’ve brought me far outweighs the sadness.

Our dynamic duo finally arrives in Tahiti, their long-desired, always-postponed escape from duty, but the purpose is of grand proportion now: Spense and Caity are getting married! This destination wedding comes with a timetable/plans to abide by…but when our H/H happen upon a frisky bride and groom taking their free spirit out to deep waters, and the unconventional dip devolves into a near drowning, Caity and Spense find themselves torn between private citizen status and FBI profilers yet again.

As focused on their big day as they intended to be, Caity and Spense simply can’t overlook attempted murder in their idealic island. Rose and Tommy Preston, newlyweds, have a checkered past that only research and discovery can make decipher. Now, if only the bride hadn’t gone “missing”, things could go a little easier for Caity and Spense! Throw in Rose’s twin sister, Lilly, who has a past of her own with good ole Tommy, and the plot thickens. But even in the midst of chaos and confusion, unearthing details that lead to major revelations, there are stolen moments between Caity and Spense that bring a sense of peace, of pause and perspective, that love truly is the end all. When Caity reaches out to touch Spense after a harrowing moment or when Spense lets his gaze linger on Caity…that’s the stuff. That gut reassurance of devotion. Carey Baldwin has developed a tender love story, woven lovingly throughout the series, between two strong characters who’ve become a formidable combination. Who’ve forged an unforgettable partnership.

Not only will you scrutinize the actions of the twin sisters and find yourself glued to Tommy’s seedy behavior, seriously questioning good choices all around, but Ms. Baldwin brings back beloved characters who shone in the background while supporting our H/H. “The moms” are darling and committed to the cause, but Spense’s relationship with Dutch Langhorne in particular is proof of not squandering love. It warmed my heart to know Spense has someone else to rely on.

What makes newlyweds turn and spitefully twist on each other? Lines of loyalty are crossed and Caity and Spense determine that not all is what it appears to be. As the race to prove innocence lapses, murderous consequences hang in the balance. It is suspenseful and dramatic. Be prepared for face-palming, “smh”-ing, and even high-fives for getting shi# done!

Countdown dragged Caity and Spense away from ticking off all the wedding details, but their commitment to one another never wavered. Caity and Spense are perfect together and cases seem only to enhance their uniqueconnection. I bid them a fond farewell for all they’ve meant to me. Soooo…how will you wow us next, Ms. Baldwin?

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy supplied for Review

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Notorious by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Notorious by Carey Baldwin – a Review

 

NotoriousAmazon / Barnes & Noble/ Kobo / BAM

Description:
The woman everyone loves to hate is dead.

Dallas socialite Cynthia Langhorne is infamous for her beauty, her philanthropy, and her home wrecking–until she’s found shot through the heart and posed nude at a fundraising ball. The case is high profile, and there’s a bigger problem: Cindy is the wife of a decorated FBI special agent–the prime suspect in her murder.

When the Bureau sends FBI profiler Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy to Texas on behalf of Dutch Langhorne, the special agent-turned-suspect, they’re suspicious of the very man whose interests they’re supposed to protect. But with a psycho hitman on their heels and a trail of evidence leading up the food chain, it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary case. The truth points to someone–or something–larger than Spenser and Cassidy ever thought possible. Solving this case is no longer a matter of clearing Dutch’s name–it’s a matter of national security.

 

Review:

You’d think a third book of a series might show signs of slowing down? Carey Baldwin has bigger plans for Caity and Spense in Notorious, and we are grateful for it! When we last encountered our H/H, they were set to explore their personal relationship in Tahiti (the stars were finally aligning). Lamentably, Special Agent Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Caitlin Cassidy were summoned to Texas by a fellow “feebie” (FBI), Agent Dutch Langhorne.   First introduced in Fallen, as part of the Fallen Angel Killer case, Dutch is too stoic a man to request assistance regarding the murder of his wife. When things are just too close, when the case forces Dutch to think outside the box, Dutch astonishingly reaches out to Spense and Caity, and loyalty comes first — no hesitation. Fret not, the chemistry and compatibility are safe in Carey Baldwin’s capable hands (love finds a way). Notorious is a psychological thriller with engaging subplots, baffling psychosis (replete with gruesome details), and swoons, unforgettable swoons, which make Caity and Spense an exciting, complex couple.

“But in truth, the crushing weight of her charmed life made each demure step as torturous as a death march.”

You know the saying about not knowing someone unless you’ve walked in their shoes? Meet Cindy, the wife of Dutch, living a life of excess…to the untrained eye. Someone murdered Cindy and there are a bevy of suspects, including Dutch himself. Carey Baldwin takes us through the memories (and regret) of an unknowing husband. Dutch was aware of Cindy’s infidelity, but the extent is a hard pill to swallow. Dutch sucks up his pride, painfully aware that his indifference contributed to Cindy’s demise, and remains fiercely protective; at the ready to find her killer. Spense and Caity try their best to remain detached as they navigate through the layers of proof and compromise in an effort to exonerate Dutch (diaries, the perfect confidante). Interesting wrench in the collaboration process is that Spense and Dutch don’t really care for each other. Ms. Baldwin volleys witty banter and outright jabs between the alpha men to elicit hearty laughs and big smiles. Caity’s pulling double duty keeping her keen eye on their tension and recognizing their similarities (they’re too arrogant to see it, lol).

While Caity, Spense and Dutch are on the brink of discovery, the real killer is mirroring their steps, dangerously close, and his intrigue is nefarious in nature; he intends to beat them to, and with, the proverbial punch.

They were no longer just looking for a fugitive. They were now on the run from a cold-blooded killer.

Profiling is where Caity and Spense meet, and excel, and Carey Baldwin displays her badassness (even when our beloved leads have become the prey). From the exciting profiling to the intriguing subplots, Ms. Baldwin writes engaging characters that matter to us. When Spenser handed off his Rubik’s Cube to the kid, there was an instant reaction; it was an undeniably sweet gesture, but where’s the nearest Target — Spenser functions better with it! When lines blur for Caity, to tell Spenser or not to tell Spenser, we cringe and recognize that it is delicate ground she walks; indecision so out of character, we fear for what can be jeopardized. These connections are special because we have come to love our unique heroes.       

Spense and Caity continue to grow and inspire; a dynamic duo who doesn’t feel intimidated by the other’s prowess. Their steadfast professional camaraderie enhances their evolving personal relationship. It’s what my 13 year old daughter refers to as “goals”.

For as much notoriety as the killer earned, he left one too many job jobs undone. Shotty work makes you a target. I had a suspicion early on as to who the killer was, but the story unfolded, details cleverly doled out, purposeful and designed, to grip you until the actual revelation. Loved it! I have enjoyed every installment, every development of this series.

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Fallen: A Cassidy & Spenser by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Fallen: A Cassidy & Spenser by Carey Baldwin – a Review

 

FallenAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
A body just fell from the sky onto Hollywood Boulevard.

When a beautiful prostitute is dumped onto the Walk of Fame, FBI profiler Atticus Spenser and forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy are called in to solve one of their most baffling cases yet.
The media’s dubbed him the Fallen Angel Killer – a crazed murderer who’s leaving the bodies of high-priced call girls in Los Angeles tourist traps.

Then the killer raises the stakes, demanding that a mysterious celebrity publically admit to his sinful secrets —or he’ll dispose of his latest kidnapped escort. With every “john” the team exposes in their search for Celebrity X, another Hollywood secret is revealed and another charmed life is left in ruins.

Now time is running out, and Cassidy and Spenser will do anything to find the twisted serial killer…before another innocent woman winds up as the next grotesque tourist attraction

 

Review:

Fallen…in love with this book, more accurately! Carey Baldwin is back to demonstrate her prowess with a psychological thriller. Special Agent Atticus Spenser is collaborating with Dr. Caitlyn Cassidy on a second case in my hometown of Los Angeles. Things were turning romantic in Judgment despite the Man in the Maze killer (review available here), but this new case will rearrange exploration of those feelings. Duty calls and they’re nothing short of dutiful. Fallen is an engaging story with intriguing layers that will hold your attention until the end.

Bodies are falling from the sky yet there isn’t a director yelling ‘Cut!’ to end the scene. Spenser and Caitlyn work fast to ascertain a commonality/pattern among the lovely female victims — profiling at its finest with this pair of experts. Spenser and Caity don’t always agree, but their opposing theories help to hone the process and exact an even more accurate assessment. The banter and dialogue is professional and productive.

Twists and turns lead you nowhere fast, but the investigation along the way is intelligent and compelling. Suspects are considered, but Ms. Baldwin keeps the plot dubious, making our heroes work for the case. When the actual Fallen Angel Killer makes an imperative, last hour demand for “Celebrity X” to reveal his identity (a provocative challenge to say the least), the mystery is spun yet again. Ms. Baldwin leads us down a riveting path to apprehend the killer.

Caity’s always been a wild card, IMO, because of her father’s death. She’s fluent in all things legal, there’s rarely a grey area for her, but there was a correlating epiphany that brought forth an unexpected emotional connection.

“…she couldn’t deny that she was beginning to believe the best way to protect the innocent was to see to it that the guilty were correctly identified in the first place.”

That realization made Caity cognizant and diligent: Don’t exonerate without finding the real killer. Spenser’s own abilities expand with Caitlyn’s new perspective. They are an omnibus force.

Spenser talking down a hostage situation with a calm explanation of lethal force was fabulous. It was described so perfectly, expert balance of facts and dark humor, Ms. Baldwin makes us fall for Spense even harder. That’s one of the brilliant qualities imbued in this character – Spense might be terrifyingly brilliant, but he’s approachable. The psychological profiling is elaborate yet understandable; you follow along like an amateur investigator. I wouldn’t go so far as to say I was on their level — I just want them to be my friends in real life!

I don’t mean to cut to the chase, but the Fallen Angel Killer resolves ingeniously. It was creative and risky, expertly catering to the murderer’s pathology. It was epic. You outdo yourself, Ms. Baldwin.

Our H/H have more than earned that Tahitian diversion. Ms. Baldwin teases us with stolen kisses, we’re more than ready for more, but she’s touching on it with a finesse that keeps us entranced. The time is now, we’re ready, lol, but the long arm of the FBI beckons yet again…to Dallas, Texas. Spenser and Caity are in demand so we’ll need to be patient on the romantic front. Fallen is a terrific addition to a dynamic series.  

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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Judgment by Carey Baldwin – a Review

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Judgment by Carey Baldwin – a Review

 

JudgmentAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
When a coed falls prey to a sadistic killer, forensic psychiatrist Dr. Caitlin Cassidy and Special Agent Atticus Spenser are called in to testify—one for the defense, one for the prosecution. With warring approaches on justice, these two rivals have been butting heads for years—both in the courtroom and out. And at first, this case appears to be no different.

But when a brutal attack leaves the accused man dead and Caity in critical condition, petty differences take a backseat to saving lives. As the lone survivor, Caity knows too much and the killer—a madman calling himself the Man in the Maze—is coming back for round two. Now, Caity and Spense must join forces to uncover the killer’s identity before Caity’s time—and luck—runs out.

 

Review:

How does an 18 year old deal with the death of her father, via lethal injection…administered by the Arizona State prison? By becoming a discriminating forensic psychiatrist specializing in cases of the falsely accused, naturally. Now Caitlin’s “bleeding heart” public persona is under attack – the near fatal kind! – when she’s linked to the defense of a killer. Will she be too obstinate to allow the protection of FBI agent, Atticus Spenser (the name alone makes me swoon)…the man who may (or may not) have a similar effect on Caitlin? Carey Baldwin is back, baby! And not only is Judgment cause for new release celebration, it’s the two secondary characters she’s brought forth from the background of Confession (review available here). In spite of their brief appearance, Caitlin and Atticus piqued interest. In Judgment, they shine center stage.

“I’m afraid there’s no question about it. We have a very dangerous and very determined criminal still at large, so I’m going to need you to stick like glue to Agent Spenser for the time being.”

When clues formulate theories, and motives are contemplated, Spense and Caity brainstorm a profile. Collaboration sparks an attraction, but more significantly – it allows them to recognize and admire each other’s particular expertise. The layers are stacking up; this kind of compatibility builds the foundation of a great relationship. From the onset, passion simmers (anew?), but Caity is determined to remain professional. How long can she detain Spense at arm’s length?

Ms. Baldwin builds up the mystery with sparsely provided Intel from the psychopath. She grips the audience with details of psychological assessments; profile analyses that were downright chilling. The assault in the car?! You better believe I checked my back seats! Paranoia aside, the examples provided clearly stem from Ms. Baldwin’s experience as a psychologist. I hope this profession has counseling and support with their own experts to decompress. This is disturbing, but compelling storytelling.

Judgment was unconventional in its sequence of events. More than once it felt disjointed by random revelations from the killer; insight seemed to be out of place/order. Having finished Judgment, I recognize a labyrinth theme/style cleverly utilized by Ms. Baldwin. She knows how to keep you intrigued.

It’s always a joy to read new material from Carey Baldwin. Judgment is no exception. I would have liked more exploration of their personal relationship. Spense has a situational eccentricity; a tell, if you will, when pressed. I expect to meet a gentler, romantic Atticus capable of sweeping the unflappable Caitlin off her feet (he’s already won me over!) If the conclusion is any indication, the Walk of Fame Killer is wreaking havoc in my hometown of Los Angeles. There is more to learn, and love, from Spense and Caity.   

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Author

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