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Veronica Mars #2
Mr. Kiss and Tell
ŷ Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Mystery & Thriller (2015)In the second book in the New York Times bestselling mystery series, Veronica Mars is back with a case that will expose the hidden workings of one of Neptune’s most murderous locations.
The Neptune Grand has always been the seaside town’s ritziest hotel, despite the shady dealings and high-profile scandals that seem to follow its elite guests. When a woman claims that she was brutally assaulted in one of its rooms and left for dead by a staff member, the owners know that they have a potential powder keg on their hands. They turn to Veronica to disprove—or prove—the woman's story.
The case is a complicated mix of hard facts, mysterious occurrences, and uncooperative witnesses. The hotel refuses to turn over its reservation list and the victim won’t divulge who she was meeting that night. Add in the facts that the attack happened months ago, the victim’s memory is fuzzy, and there are holes in the hotel’s surveillance system, and Veronica has a convoluted mess on her hands. As she works to fill in the missing pieces, it becomes clear that someone is lying—but who? And why?
The Neptune Grand has always been the seaside town’s ritziest hotel, despite the shady dealings and high-profile scandals that seem to follow its elite guests. When a woman claims that she was brutally assaulted in one of its rooms and left for dead by a staff member, the owners know that they have a potential powder keg on their hands. They turn to Veronica to disprove—or prove—the woman's story.
The case is a complicated mix of hard facts, mysterious occurrences, and uncooperative witnesses. The hotel refuses to turn over its reservation list and the victim won’t divulge who she was meeting that night. Add in the facts that the attack happened months ago, the victim’s memory is fuzzy, and there are holes in the hotel’s surveillance system, and Veronica has a convoluted mess on her hands. As she works to fill in the missing pieces, it becomes clear that someone is lying—but who? And why?
330 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2015
476 people are currently reading
15539 people want to read
About the author
Rob Thomas
62books1,128followersRobert James "Rob" Thomas is an American author, producer, and screenwriter, best known as the author of the 1996 novel Rats Saw God, creator of the critically acclaimed television series Veronica Mars and co-creator of 90210 and Party Down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,384 reviews
December 29, 2014
There's something really important you should know before reading this review:
(Joking. But if you don't like Veronica I have a question for you: are you even human?)
So, this book picks up six months after : Weevil is waiting the outcome of his trial; Keith and Cliff are still trying to expose the corruption network of the sheriff's office and Lamb has a new -and mysterious(?)- opponent. Meanwhile, a woman was assaulted at the Grand and Veronica has been called to investigate.
Unlike the previous book -which has a strange feeling of sadness all over- in this one we get the spark of the series back. There's a good mystery, a lot of old characters, great dialogues loaded with cynicism, and the most important of all: LOGAN IS BACK.
(I'm not Veronica, but YES. Yes, I love you.)
What more can we, the marshmallow fans, ask for? Oh, yes, the next book. Now.
PS: Rob Thomas, if you read this, that thing with : DON'T. YOU. DARE.
(Joking. But if you don't like Veronica I have a question for you: are you even human?)
So, this book picks up six months after : Weevil is waiting the outcome of his trial; Keith and Cliff are still trying to expose the corruption network of the sheriff's office and Lamb has a new -and mysterious(?)- opponent. Meanwhile, a woman was assaulted at the Grand and Veronica has been called to investigate.
Unlike the previous book -which has a strange feeling of sadness all over- in this one we get the spark of the series back. There's a good mystery, a lot of old characters, great dialogues loaded with cynicism, and the most important of all: LOGAN IS BACK.
(I'm not Veronica, but YES. Yes, I love you.)
What more can we, the marshmallow fans, ask for? Oh, yes, the next book. Now.
PS: Rob Thomas, if you read this, that thing with : DON'T. YOU. DARE.
January 2, 2018
I don't usually put gifs in reviews OR write anything in this here box pre-reading but I can't help myself...
As we (impatiently) wait for October 28th, let us remember the following:
and
Because it's really all about those delicious gazes, more than anything else.
As we (impatiently) wait for October 28th, let us remember the following:
and
Because it's really all about those delicious gazes, more than anything else.
January 24, 2015
YES! So much Weevil. So much Logan. This is everything I needed.
I enjoyed this second book even more than the first, the story felt more like a VM episode (or maybe even movie) than a book. I don't even know if that makes sense...?
What I mean is the mystery is of grand proportions and takes months to solve, all of my favourite character are there (and Lamb) behaving and acting like they do in the show, right down to mannerisms. Having watched the VM series and movie countless times I feel like I really KNOW these characters, and this being an adaptation of the show it's ok for me to go right ahead and picture the actors for the whole thing.
Again, I can't say how much a non-marshmallow would enjoy it because I'm totally in that camp, but I do think the mystery of this one stands up on its own far stronger than the first. And, again, there is enough explanation of characters to keep newbies in the loop, without overdoing the flashbacks for us fans.
I need more. And, for some reason, I have a feeling we're going to find up where Duncan and the baby ended up one of these days... PLEASE ROB THOMAS!
I enjoyed this second book even more than the first, the story felt more like a VM episode (or maybe even movie) than a book. I don't even know if that makes sense...?
What I mean is the mystery is of grand proportions and takes months to solve, all of my favourite character are there (and Lamb) behaving and acting like they do in the show, right down to mannerisms. Having watched the VM series and movie countless times I feel like I really KNOW these characters, and this being an adaptation of the show it's ok for me to go right ahead and picture the actors for the whole thing.
Again, I can't say how much a non-marshmallow would enjoy it because I'm totally in that camp, but I do think the mystery of this one stands up on its own far stronger than the first. And, again, there is enough explanation of characters to keep newbies in the loop, without overdoing the flashbacks for us fans.
I need more. And, for some reason, I have a feeling we're going to find up where Duncan and the baby ended up one of these days... PLEASE ROB THOMAS!
January 24, 2015
I picked up this book after a book group friend raved about the Veronica Mars television series. Jumping in without knowing anything about the show or the character, I was strongly reminded of another series–not the television Veronica Mars, but another famous young adult female detective.
Yes, that one.
Of course, this is Nancy for the new millennium. With Drew’s long history of updates, Veronica Mars reminds me of the 1958-1979 vintage, my adolescent book obsession (I’m sure there’s a box somewhere with books 1-104). Veronica is updated, at least, in the sense of adding about seven years, and a willingness to be involved in rape cases, a type of investigation that never seemed to come Nancy’s way. But they both have a serious case of daddy-worship, a seriously clever, hunky, Dudley-Do-Right boyfriend, and a tendency to be both brainy and sincere. Mars, however, seems less logical, involves the police more frequently, and lacks Nancy’s dogged persistence.
On its own, Mr Kiss and Tell is a serviceable mystery centered on a likeable female character. It avoids many of the chick-lit cliches–I can’t think of when Veronica described her own clothes–and although there was the whiff of a love triangle, it wasn’t even close to the focus of the story. Writing was serviceable, generally above-average for the genre, but didn’t stand out in beauty or ability to evoke emotion. I enjoyed the characterization, and thought the characters had a nice degree of dimensionality. The setting worked as well with enough detail to individuate scenes. Narrative switched a number of times, including using that old tv classic of following an unrelated character to the crime scene. Although that can be a cheap way to add drama, in this case the voice changes helped to nicely round out Veronica’s father.
I suspect the real appeal here is the continuation of the Veronica Mars story, judging from the reviews and pre-sqees I saw on ŷ. With that in mind, it seems to be a definite continuation of the tv series story arc, including dealing with an unethical sheriff and references to prior mysteries she’s solved. As a new reader, the references didn’t bother me, particularly since Graham didn’t get bogged down in explano-babble, and the longer arc added interesting aspect to the story.
What didn’t work quite as well for me was the plot (spoiler/specifics below the break) and how generally uncommitted Veronica seemed towards solving the mystery. For instance, she delegates serious computer research to friend Mac, who is far more diligent in combing through the material. Veronica admits at least twice that she was giving up on the case, because her phone calls weren’t returned and the police wouldn’t help her. It seemed pretty half-assed for a girl detective, who by rights should be more determined as the path she is choosing is so unusual, as we’re told fairly often by Veronica, her dad and her boyfriend. Plotting had the feel of a television script; weak on the logic, big on dramatic scenes.
Overall, I’d highly recommend it to fans of Veronica Mars. And ones who want a newer Nancy Drew.
Two and a half stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Knopf Doubleday for a review copy.
July 1, 2023
4�
Genre ~ crime thriller
Series ~ Veronica Mars
Others in the series ~ The Thousand Dollar Tan Line
Publication date ~ January 20, 2015
Page Count ~ 332
Audio length ~ 10 hours 8 minutes
Narrator ~ Rebecca Lowman
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ private investigators, some violence, r@pe, no steamage, fade to black
This might sound similar to my book 1 review.
Read this one a while ago, before my review writing times. I've gotten my daughter into watching the series, now she's reading the books so I figured I'd pop in and write something. However, since I read it ages ago I don't have too much to contribute.
~ I 💙 Logan
~ I didn't listen to it, but I bet I would've been upset that Kristen didn't narrate again.
In case you were wondering here is the correct order to watch/read ~ watch seasons 1-3, watch the movie, read the 2 books then watch season 4 (thanks to my girl Tiffany for this info).
Daughter of a few words thoughts ~ read in one day and stayed up until 11pm to finish, so I can watch season 4 asap. Could have went without Keith's POV this round.
And that's all I could get out of her.
Genre ~ crime thriller
Series ~ Veronica Mars
Others in the series ~ The Thousand Dollar Tan Line
Publication date ~ January 20, 2015
Page Count ~ 332
Audio length ~ 10 hours 8 minutes
Narrator ~ Rebecca Lowman
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ private investigators, some violence, r@pe, no steamage, fade to black
This might sound similar to my book 1 review.
Read this one a while ago, before my review writing times. I've gotten my daughter into watching the series, now she's reading the books so I figured I'd pop in and write something. However, since I read it ages ago I don't have too much to contribute.
~ I 💙 Logan
~ I didn't listen to it, but I bet I would've been upset that Kristen didn't narrate again.
In case you were wondering here is the correct order to watch/read ~ watch seasons 1-3, watch the movie, read the 2 books then watch season 4 (thanks to my girl Tiffany for this info).
Daughter of a few words thoughts ~ read in one day and stayed up until 11pm to finish, so I can watch season 4 asap. Could have went without Keith's POV this round.
And that's all I could get out of her.
March 27, 2015
Great Addition
The second installment of the Veronica Mars books was a bit harder to get into, but once I did get into it, I didn't know how to put the book down.
Fortunately, there was more Logan. And a puppy. And Veronica solving crimes. All good stuff, and I'll eagerly be waiting for the next book.
The second installment of the Veronica Mars books was a bit harder to get into, but once I did get into it, I didn't know how to put the book down.
Fortunately, there was more Logan. And a puppy. And Veronica solving crimes. All good stuff, and I'll eagerly be waiting for the next book.
July 31, 2016
Perhaps not a super fantastic mystery story. Also, not a book I would recommend unless you are familiar with the Veronica Mars storyline. But, 4 stars for nostalgia. Definitely like reading an episode of the show.
What is also great is that not only does it touch on some stories that haven't come up since the first or second season, it also continues some of the story from the last book and leaves some cliffhangers for another book. I haven't seen that any more books are coming out, but if they do I will be reading them!
What is also great is that not only does it touch on some stories that haven't come up since the first or second season, it also continues some of the story from the last book and leaves some cliffhangers for another book. I haven't seen that any more books are coming out, but if they do I will be reading them!
June 5, 2015
See more reviews at
This review is COMPLETELY spoiler free
Veronica Mars isa recent addiction and addition to my oh-so-monotonous life. As I write this review, it’s the last day of my summer holidays before I’m back at school for the new school year—and just less than two months earlier when the holidays started, I clicked play on the very first episode of the Veronica Mars TV series. I soon became absolutely smitten with the TV show (maaaaaaybe because of Logan Echolls) and I soon jumped onto the movie that came out in 2014, which is a continuation of the TV show. While I’d love for another movie to come out, I highly doubt my wish will come true anytime soon, but I do have these wonderful books to keep me company.
This is the second book to the Veronica Mars books, and it basically picks off after where the movie left off. For all you unfortunate souls who are unaware of who Veronica Mars is, firstly, I feel incredibly sorry for you. You’ll need to hurry off now and binge watch the TV show and movie (in that order) right now, because if you don’t, I’ll come after you with a paper shredder. That’s right, I’ll shred all your books. MWAHAHAHAHAHA. (I’m evil.) (Don’t convince me otherwise.) But anyway, like I was saying, if you don’t know who Veronica Mars is, she’s a Private Investigator who used to be a receptionist for her father’s Mars Investigations. Now they run the PI business together, and it’s truly the best thing ever—take my word for it.
While there’s no point in denying that the books (and movie, to be honest) don’t have the same magic that the original TV show possesses, we are still given another intriguing excerpt of Veronica Mars� life. In this installment, Veronica’s caught up in an investigation that involves a claimed rape at Neptune’s ritziest hotel: The Neptune Grand. For what seems should be a simple case—to find the rapist—turns out to be much harder when there are mysterious pieces of information that don’t add up, uncooperative witnesses and barely any leads.
Despite the fact that I found the mystery here to be really engaging, it didn’t seem to be as twisted or as well built as the story line in The Thousand Dollar Tan Line. Moreover, I did find myself rather bored at times. This book does spend more time dabbling here and there, and while I loved the further exploration of our beloved characters, it moved a little too slow for a typical Veronica Mars story, in my opinion.
Guys, we finally get our Logan back in this one! When I found out that he’d be back for this installment, I was over the moon. I love that their relationship is further explored here, and that they talked more about their pasts—especially those (achingly painful) 9 years. Their relationship is a flawed one, but beautifully so, and that’s what makes them so special in my heart.
If you love good mysteries, or if you are a fan of Veronica Mars, you need to read these books. We get to catch-up with our favourite characters as well as revisit some unexpected acquaintances too. Combine them in with a thrilling mystery and the best sassy dialogue, and there you have it—a classic Veronica Mars story. I do hope Thomas and Graham decide to write more installments because one thing’s for sure; I’ll never get sick of Veronica Mars! So keep ‘em coming.
~Thank you Allen and Unwin Australia for sending me this copy!~
This review is COMPLETELY spoiler free
Veronica Mars isa recent addiction and addition to my oh-so-monotonous life. As I write this review, it’s the last day of my summer holidays before I’m back at school for the new school year—and just less than two months earlier when the holidays started, I clicked play on the very first episode of the Veronica Mars TV series. I soon became absolutely smitten with the TV show (maaaaaaybe because of Logan Echolls) and I soon jumped onto the movie that came out in 2014, which is a continuation of the TV show. While I’d love for another movie to come out, I highly doubt my wish will come true anytime soon, but I do have these wonderful books to keep me company.
This is the second book to the Veronica Mars books, and it basically picks off after where the movie left off. For all you unfortunate souls who are unaware of who Veronica Mars is, firstly, I feel incredibly sorry for you. You’ll need to hurry off now and binge watch the TV show and movie (in that order) right now, because if you don’t, I’ll come after you with a paper shredder. That’s right, I’ll shred all your books. MWAHAHAHAHAHA. (I’m evil.) (Don’t convince me otherwise.) But anyway, like I was saying, if you don’t know who Veronica Mars is, she’s a Private Investigator who used to be a receptionist for her father’s Mars Investigations. Now they run the PI business together, and it’s truly the best thing ever—take my word for it.
While there’s no point in denying that the books (and movie, to be honest) don’t have the same magic that the original TV show possesses, we are still given another intriguing excerpt of Veronica Mars� life. In this installment, Veronica’s caught up in an investigation that involves a claimed rape at Neptune’s ritziest hotel: The Neptune Grand. For what seems should be a simple case—to find the rapist—turns out to be much harder when there are mysterious pieces of information that don’t add up, uncooperative witnesses and barely any leads.
Despite the fact that I found the mystery here to be really engaging, it didn’t seem to be as twisted or as well built as the story line in The Thousand Dollar Tan Line. Moreover, I did find myself rather bored at times. This book does spend more time dabbling here and there, and while I loved the further exploration of our beloved characters, it moved a little too slow for a typical Veronica Mars story, in my opinion.
Guys, we finally get our Logan back in this one! When I found out that he’d be back for this installment, I was over the moon. I love that their relationship is further explored here, and that they talked more about their pasts—especially those (achingly painful) 9 years. Their relationship is a flawed one, but beautifully so, and that’s what makes them so special in my heart.
If you love good mysteries, or if you are a fan of Veronica Mars, you need to read these books. We get to catch-up with our favourite characters as well as revisit some unexpected acquaintances too. Combine them in with a thrilling mystery and the best sassy dialogue, and there you have it—a classic Veronica Mars story. I do hope Thomas and Graham decide to write more installments because one thing’s for sure; I’ll never get sick of Veronica Mars! So keep ‘em coming.
~Thank you Allen and Unwin Australia for sending me this copy!~
April 14, 2015
This is a fun mystery for Veronica Mars fans. It's the second in a series, and I think it was even better than the first book.
The story references a lot of events from the TV show and the movie, so if you haven't watched those, you are at risk for spoilers. Veronica's character is still strong, and Kristen Bell was so perfect in the role that I could hear her voice as I read.
The case involves a young woman who was raped, beaten and abandoned, and Veronica tries to figure out who attacked her. While I confess I've grown a little tired of all the rapes that seem to happen in the fictional town of Neptune, California, Veronica is the person you'd want to track down a rapist. She never gives up.
If you like Logan, there is a lot more of his relationship with Veronica in this book, and even a touching scene in which he shares why he finally cleaned up his act and joined the military.
There is also good stuff with Keith, Mac, Weevil, Wallace, and even Leo, Veronica's old flame. Highly recommended for Veronica Mars fans.
Note:
I was in a horrible reading rut a few weeks ago, and I think I've finally climbed out. It was the worst book slump I have had in years. This novel was one of the things that helped me get back on track, and my advice for anyone suffering from a similar rut is to READ WHAT YOU WANT. Don't let yourself get backed into a book corner. One of the reasons I got so frustrated was because I was feeling pressure to read stuff I wasn't interested in. Free reading is such a joy, and when there is external pressure, it can take all the fun out of it. Now I'm doing a better job of resisting when people try to force books on me. My reading time is my own!
The story references a lot of events from the TV show and the movie, so if you haven't watched those, you are at risk for spoilers. Veronica's character is still strong, and Kristen Bell was so perfect in the role that I could hear her voice as I read.
The case involves a young woman who was raped, beaten and abandoned, and Veronica tries to figure out who attacked her. While I confess I've grown a little tired of all the rapes that seem to happen in the fictional town of Neptune, California, Veronica is the person you'd want to track down a rapist. She never gives up.
If you like Logan, there is a lot more of his relationship with Veronica in this book, and even a touching scene in which he shares why he finally cleaned up his act and joined the military.
There is also good stuff with Keith, Mac, Weevil, Wallace, and even Leo, Veronica's old flame. Highly recommended for Veronica Mars fans.
Note:
I was in a horrible reading rut a few weeks ago, and I think I've finally climbed out. It was the worst book slump I have had in years. This novel was one of the things that helped me get back on track, and my advice for anyone suffering from a similar rut is to READ WHAT YOU WANT. Don't let yourself get backed into a book corner. One of the reasons I got so frustrated was because I was feeling pressure to read stuff I wasn't interested in. Free reading is such a joy, and when there is external pressure, it can take all the fun out of it. Now I'm doing a better job of resisting when people try to force books on me. My reading time is my own!
April 28, 2015
I really loved the story in this one but I missed Kristen bell's narration!
July 22, 2016
I don't know why it took me so long to read the second Veronica Mars book, but I liked it almost as much as the first one. I love that Rob Thomas is not afraid to tackle tough topics, I loved the complexity and the story, I loved getting to see some things from Keith's POV as well, and I enjoyed cameos from all the major players from the show.
My only complaint in this one is that I wish Logan had been more of a character. I did enjoy their very real problems of learning to be okay with each other both having a career that's VERY important to them, to the extent that it gets in the way of their relationship, and I appreciate how deeply they love each other, but I wish the Logan parts had been a bit more than that.
Otherwise, standard Veronica Mars sass and wit, solid story, great time reading it.
My only complaint in this one is that I wish Logan had been more of a character. I did enjoy their very real problems of learning to be okay with each other both having a career that's VERY important to them, to the extent that it gets in the way of their relationship, and I appreciate how deeply they love each other, but I wish the Logan parts had been a bit more than that.
Otherwise, standard Veronica Mars sass and wit, solid story, great time reading it.
March 17, 2015
Content Warning: discussion of rape/sexual violence.
I wanted to like this more than I did, and there are certainly aspects of the book that I loved–Weevil Subplot, more Cliff McCormack, Pony the Dog–but I couldn't get over the fact that this is the FOURTH time that Rob Thomas has used rape as one of his mystery plots in the Mars Investigations universe. On the one hand, I think that Thomas generally handles violence against women--especially sexual violence--in an appropriately sensitive manner (um, except the third season of VMars, please fuck off forever, ). And I appreciate that as horrifying and awful as sexual violence is always portrayed in VMars, one of the most disturbing aspects of that portrayal is how commonplace and accepted sexual violence is in our society. Unfortunately, when Thomas keeps recycling the Rape Mystery Plot, he undermines the unique horror innate to each assault/rape/abuse survivor's own story, reducing the trauma to mere plot device. I take the most issue with the way this mystery is inevitably resolved:
Also, obviously I love that there was more Logan in this book, but I need to see Logan interacting with people besides Veronica. People like Mac, calling him "Not Piz" to his face.
I wanted to like this more than I did, and there are certainly aspects of the book that I loved–Weevil Subplot, more Cliff McCormack, Pony the Dog–but I couldn't get over the fact that this is the FOURTH time that Rob Thomas has used rape as one of his mystery plots in the Mars Investigations universe. On the one hand, I think that Thomas generally handles violence against women--especially sexual violence--in an appropriately sensitive manner (um, except the third season of VMars, please fuck off forever, ). And I appreciate that as horrifying and awful as sexual violence is always portrayed in VMars, one of the most disturbing aspects of that portrayal is how commonplace and accepted sexual violence is in our society. Unfortunately, when Thomas keeps recycling the Rape Mystery Plot, he undermines the unique horror innate to each assault/rape/abuse survivor's own story, reducing the trauma to mere plot device. I take the most issue with the way this mystery is inevitably resolved:
Also, obviously I love that there was more Logan in this book, but I need to see Logan interacting with people besides Veronica. People like Mac, calling him "Not Piz" to his face.
Want to read
April 3, 2017
October 26, 2017
�She'd never tried to frame herself as some quixotic warrior. She'd never claimed to be able to save anyone.�
When I pick up a mystery book, this is exactly the experience I want to have. I want to wonder. I want to feel confused. I want to know.so.bad. Thank you, , for doing all of that with .
What I Liked:
-Is this list going to be too long...?
-Veronica Mars.
-The supporting characters. They each may have their own personal dramas going on, but all of them are still integral to the main plot and their stories make you even more invested in seeing the series continue (hint, hint, ).
-It felt as if I was watching the show all over again, in the best possible way: Veronica's snarky humor, her strained, but committed relationship with Logan Echolls, the unpredictability of her cases and the witnesses.
-The twists and turns that inevitably accompany a Mars Investigation case. I love how Thomas handles his whodunits - Veronica knows that she may be wrong with some of her accusations, but she's willing to take that chance to get to the truth.
What I Didn't Like
-Just 3 minor editing errors that kind of ejected me from the story for a half-second.
What I Wanted More Of
-I WANT MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES!
-PLEASE!
-PRETTY PLEASE!!
-WITH CHERRIES ON TOP!!!
If may be so bold as to remind Mr. (in his own words) that "Scotch is for closers." - Loose translation... more books, please!
When I pick up a mystery book, this is exactly the experience I want to have. I want to wonder. I want to feel confused. I want to know.so.bad. Thank you, , for doing all of that with .
What I Liked:
-Is this list going to be too long...?
-Veronica Mars.
-The supporting characters. They each may have their own personal dramas going on, but all of them are still integral to the main plot and their stories make you even more invested in seeing the series continue (hint, hint, ).
-It felt as if I was watching the show all over again, in the best possible way: Veronica's snarky humor, her strained, but committed relationship with Logan Echolls, the unpredictability of her cases and the witnesses.
-The twists and turns that inevitably accompany a Mars Investigation case. I love how Thomas handles his whodunits - Veronica knows that she may be wrong with some of her accusations, but she's willing to take that chance to get to the truth.
What I Didn't Like
-Just 3 minor editing errors that kind of ejected me from the story for a half-second.
What I Wanted More Of
-I WANT MORE BOOKS IN THIS SERIES!
-PLEASE!
-PRETTY PLEASE!!
-WITH CHERRIES ON TOP!!!
If may be so bold as to remind Mr. (in his own words) that "Scotch is for closers." - Loose translation... more books, please!
January 9, 2015
We’re back with more Veronica Mars and Co! I’m so glad that I got an opportunity to read Mr. Kiss and Tell before publication date. I just have to say, this book series has really helped with my V Mars fever.
First and most importantly, I’m happy to announce that Logan was definitely involved in this story more, which I’m not sure if you remember but that was one of my selfish little issues with the first book. Well, he’s back baby, and as hot as ever. Hotter almost, because now he’s Mr White Uniform Navy guy, and he’s become more responsible. However, sadly Veronica is a little concerned with this new side of Logan and that I found frustrating. For fans of the television show, do you remember how angry Veronica got when Logan would try to make her play it safe for her own good or because, Heaven forbid, he was worried that he would lose her. If you remember that, then this may make you see V as just a little bit of a hypocrite. I guess, to walk in her shoes, it’s a lot easier to be the person always in danger than it is to love the person always in danger. Still, even with the drama that is always between Logan and Veronica, it was still wonderful to see them together and to read about him at all.
I was also pleased that Mr. Kiss and Tell revisits Wievel and the events that took place at the end of the Veronica Mars movie. It tackled the war between the rich 09ers and those from the poorer side of town. We also got to spend more time with Leo D’amato, who I always liked.
The mystery itself was decent. It didn’t have all the twists and turns of the first book. It didn’t throw it back to events in Veronica’s history but at the same time I was glad it didn’t. Sometimes a case is just a case, and there aren’t going to be any huge personal revelations along the way. I’m sure that there will be more revealed ongoing but it can’t be every book or it’ll get predictable.
In the end, after two books read, I feel comfortable saying that this is going to be a series that is good. It’s going to be worth reading. What it’s not going to be is equal to the magic of the television show. While normally I believe that television can’t compare to the world I envision in my head, in the case of Veronica Mars, I would still rather watch those actors bring my favorite characters to life then to read it and be forced to imagine.
Thank you Netgalley and Vintage books for providing an advance copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Read other great reviews like this at Badass Book Reviews!
First and most importantly, I’m happy to announce that Logan was definitely involved in this story more, which I’m not sure if you remember but that was one of my selfish little issues with the first book. Well, he’s back baby, and as hot as ever. Hotter almost, because now he’s Mr White Uniform Navy guy, and he’s become more responsible. However, sadly Veronica is a little concerned with this new side of Logan and that I found frustrating. For fans of the television show, do you remember how angry Veronica got when Logan would try to make her play it safe for her own good or because, Heaven forbid, he was worried that he would lose her. If you remember that, then this may make you see V as just a little bit of a hypocrite. I guess, to walk in her shoes, it’s a lot easier to be the person always in danger than it is to love the person always in danger. Still, even with the drama that is always between Logan and Veronica, it was still wonderful to see them together and to read about him at all.
I was also pleased that Mr. Kiss and Tell revisits Wievel and the events that took place at the end of the Veronica Mars movie. It tackled the war between the rich 09ers and those from the poorer side of town. We also got to spend more time with Leo D’amato, who I always liked.
The mystery itself was decent. It didn’t have all the twists and turns of the first book. It didn’t throw it back to events in Veronica’s history but at the same time I was glad it didn’t. Sometimes a case is just a case, and there aren’t going to be any huge personal revelations along the way. I’m sure that there will be more revealed ongoing but it can’t be every book or it’ll get predictable.
In the end, after two books read, I feel comfortable saying that this is going to be a series that is good. It’s going to be worth reading. What it’s not going to be is equal to the magic of the television show. While normally I believe that television can’t compare to the world I envision in my head, in the case of Veronica Mars, I would still rather watch those actors bring my favorite characters to life then to read it and be forced to imagine.
Thank you Netgalley and Vintage books for providing an advance copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Read other great reviews like this at Badass Book Reviews!
February 1, 2015
This book is a great example of the magic that can happen when a show's writer also creates the novelization of said show. Simply put, you are left with perfection. I love Veronica Mars, honestly I don't know anyone who doesn't love her. I was a little wary going into this because I hadn't read the first book, but rest assured if you have at least seen the Veronica Mars movie you will be fine.
This book could easily fit into the Veronica Mars universe. The characters and the setting were exactly, and I mean exactly the same as they were in the show. This brought back some hardcore nostalgia, and created some warm tingly feelings in my heart, I'm not gonna lie. The plot kept me engaged the whole time, although it was a little hard to read for me personally, just because rape is a hard thing to read about. However I applaud Rob Thomas for always plotting important issues.
Although the show may be over, with this series the Veronica Mars that we all know and love will never die.
Buy, Borrow or Bin Verdict: Buy
Note: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2020
This second title in the Veronica Mars series continues her private eye career and life. The writing is first rate, and I like her gritty personality. We learn more about her past and her current romance. Some things she does I don't understand, but then I'm not a private eye. The processes and methods are interesting in how she conducts her investigations. I really should watch the TV show episodes sometime.
November 1, 2019
Even though not narrated by Kristin Bell, I still enjoyed listening to this on audio while I wait for the Hulu series to come out on DVD. Books 1 & 2 have given us a glimpse of Veronica after the movie and include some of our favorite recurring characters. If you are a Marshmallow, you will want to read or listen to this book!
January 6, 2023
ETA 2/15/18: My bestie was in town last weekend and we rewatched our favorite episodes -- mostly the ones featuring LoVe -- and that still wasn't enough VMars for me so I decided to download the audiobooks for the books that came after the movie and experience them again in their full glory...even if Mr. Kiss and Tellisn't narrated by Kristen Bell. :( I still want more. I need more, dammit!
****
Yay for finally getting some glorious LoVe moments, full of that delicious banter I love so much! Alas, it will never be enough...
****
Yay for finally getting some glorious LoVe moments, full of that delicious banter I love so much! Alas, it will never be enough...
March 5, 2015
Browser crash ruined my first version of this review, but let's try again:
This book was going so well, until it fell apart at the end.
As I mentioned in my review of the first book, I'm a fan of the Veronica Mars tv show. I'll admit that I didn't watch every episode multiple times, but I'm pretty sure there was never an episode where Veronica got the criminal to confess by bringing in a huge bruiser to beat the confession out of him.
Poor book-Veronica doesn't have half the devious wit of TV/movie-Veronica, because book-Veronica just can't think up a way to catch the bad guy without having his bones broken. Sure, in the TV show there were fights and physical dangers. Logan brandished a gun to pull her out of a tight spot. Keith faced off with Aaron Echols. Logan got himself thrown in prison to kick the shit out of the Hearst rapists.
But at no point did Veronica ever pull a lazy, shitty stunt like torturing a suspect into a confession.
Did I mention that a major subplot in the book involves the fight against corrupt local police?
Here's the thing: Veronica was a trickster character. She put on disguises, played with people's heads, and tricked them into incriminating themselves. She used her brains. In this book, not so much.
Anyway, that's a massive, massive disappointment. I expect better. I wouldn't want to drop a series for one terrible creative choice, but I'll be borrowing book 3 from the library, and if the authors pull this lazy shit again I'm out.
This book was going so well, until it fell apart at the end.
As I mentioned in my review of the first book, I'm a fan of the Veronica Mars tv show. I'll admit that I didn't watch every episode multiple times, but I'm pretty sure there was never an episode where Veronica got the criminal to confess by bringing in a huge bruiser to beat the confession out of him.
Poor book-Veronica doesn't have half the devious wit of TV/movie-Veronica, because book-Veronica just can't think up a way to catch the bad guy without having his bones broken. Sure, in the TV show there were fights and physical dangers. Logan brandished a gun to pull her out of a tight spot. Keith faced off with Aaron Echols. Logan got himself thrown in prison to kick the shit out of the Hearst rapists.
But at no point did Veronica ever pull a lazy, shitty stunt like torturing a suspect into a confession.
Did I mention that a major subplot in the book involves the fight against corrupt local police?
Here's the thing: Veronica was a trickster character. She put on disguises, played with people's heads, and tricked them into incriminating themselves. She used her brains. In this book, not so much.
Anyway, that's a massive, massive disappointment. I expect better. I wouldn't want to drop a series for one terrible creative choice, but I'll be borrowing book 3 from the library, and if the authors pull this lazy shit again I'm out.
July 6, 2020
Really enjoyed this! I wish Rob Thomas had written more of these books, but I suppose an entire reboot of the TV series is a pretty good alternative.
February 7, 2015
This is a spoiler-free review, but if you haven't seen the tv series or the movie, and you plan on doing it, don't read my review or you may find spoilers in it.
I loved the tv show and I just binge-rewatched it a few months ago.
Almost a month ago, I read and it was a five star read for me. I loved this one too and I hope there are going to be more books because I'm not ready to let this series go! There are a few things that need to be resolved, especially one that really matters to me.
Veronica Mars is one of my favorite female characters ever. I've always wanted to be like her: she's so kickass, witty, clever, hilarious, tough, smart..and I could go on and on.
This book takes place six months after .
Veronica is working on a case: a girl was raped and seriously injured and she's trying to find out who did this to her.
Also, we know from the movie that Weevil was unfairly convicted and the story begins with his trial. I loved that Weevil was in this one, but I was seriously disappointed with his actions at the end.
So, what did I love about this one??
LOGAN. He's BACK!
VERONICA.
She is the same Veronica. While I was reading, I could picture her doing and saying stuff. She hasn't changed with years and she was one of the reasons I loved this show so much.
I gave this one only four stars because of .
Overall, this was an engaging read. I recommend book one and two to all the fans of Veronica Mars, you're going to love these books!
Arc kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2019
Books related to a movie or TV series are rarely good. Mr Kiss and Tell is fortunately a splendid exception. Like the first book in this series, it's great entertainment.
This is primarily due to the excellent plot. Although some things can be predicted from the beginning and the villain's identity is already known in the middle of the book, the story is suspenseful and extremely interesting. Technically, if you think about it, the plot is not overly extensive or unique, but it still provides wonderful entertainment.
This is also probably due to the short chapters filled with action. There are simply no unnecessary fragments in this book, all are there for some purpose. There are no lengthy descriptions, trivial dialogues and scenes that add nothing to the storyline. And so, you read it easily.
I admit that I watched the series a long time ago so I don't remember everything exactly. But in my opinion the characters from the book are very similar to those from the TV series, except that they are now older and more mature. Veronica is still the strong and a little cynical heroine that we remember. And her well-known flaws, such as stubbornness, are properly exposed, which gives her personality some depth and authenticity. Veronica is a great example of how to create a strong, intelligent heroine who is not paper-thin or annoying.
The only complain I have is about Logan. It seems to me that the authors do not know what to do with him. In the previous book he was completely absent and he is practically omitted in this book even though he is in Neptune. With an exception of a little tearful scene, Logan plays essentially no role in this story. I think that in a month I will forget that he appeared in this story at all. In general, Logan, unlike Veronica, is a bit boring and colorless, unlike the one on the show. I sincerely hoped that Veronica and Logan would solve a case together. But his presence makes no difference. I am disappointed.
But despite this, it's a great book that I recommend to everyone, not just fans of the TV show.
February 16, 2015
Mr. Kiss and Tell is the second of two books contracted after the Kickstarted movie in 2014. Both books have done a great job taking the Veronica Mars world, escalating it, and translating it to the medium of books. I also really like what they're doing with Veronica's character (and the other characters). They're allowing them to grow and change. These characters haven't just been held in stasis in the nine years that have elapsed since the third season of the TV show ended.
This book picks up about three months after The Thousand Dollar Tan Line, and about six months from the end of the movie. Veronica and her father (and Mac) have settled into a routine at work. They are also hard at work trying to clear Weevil's name from the fallout of cop corruption in the movie. And Logan is home from shore leave and living with Veronica. The Neptune Grand hires Veronica to help them with a lawsuit--a rape victim is naming one of their employees, an illegal immigrant, and suing them for damages. Only it turns out, Veronica and the rape victim have a history with one another.
The book actually takes place over several months, which I liked a lot. We see Veronica living her life even as she takes her time to unravel the case, and come to terms with what her new relationship with Logan means to her. It's a lot more believable than if it had taken place over a shorter timespan. There are also a lot of in-jokes, but they are never unbearable. They have the effect of making the world of Neptune feel like a real place rather than an artificially constructed one.
I really, really hope they order more of these books. They are fun and well-written and they give me back some of my favorite characters for a couple of hours at a time.
This book picks up about three months after The Thousand Dollar Tan Line, and about six months from the end of the movie. Veronica and her father (and Mac) have settled into a routine at work. They are also hard at work trying to clear Weevil's name from the fallout of cop corruption in the movie. And Logan is home from shore leave and living with Veronica. The Neptune Grand hires Veronica to help them with a lawsuit--a rape victim is naming one of their employees, an illegal immigrant, and suing them for damages. Only it turns out, Veronica and the rape victim have a history with one another.
The book actually takes place over several months, which I liked a lot. We see Veronica living her life even as she takes her time to unravel the case, and come to terms with what her new relationship with Logan means to her. It's a lot more believable than if it had taken place over a shorter timespan. There are also a lot of in-jokes, but they are never unbearable. They have the effect of making the world of Neptune feel like a real place rather than an artificially constructed one.
I really, really hope they order more of these books. They are fun and well-written and they give me back some of my favorite characters for a couple of hours at a time.
July 27, 2015
Guys, I love Veronica Mars. That's all. I love her. And I love the rest of the characters on the show and in these books. I can't give a no-biased review of this so if that's what you're looking for, you'll have to go somewhere else. I will read and watch anything about these characters and probably love it. (Except for the movie, I didn't love that. But let's not talk about that right now.) I really enjoy these books. I love getting to see the characters more and I love the mysteries and the twists and the relationships and all of it. I was happy to see more LoVe in this one too! Also, Keith will forever and always be my favorite dad ever. If you guys are fans of Veronica Mars, I definitely recommend these books.
January? This has been moved back to January. That sucks. Now I'm sad.
January? This has been moved back to January. That sucks. Now I'm sad.
November 19, 2014
ARC for review.
Veronica Mars is back for another case and it's a doozy. Mr. Kiss and Tell was a highly enjoyable and quick read. The subject matter is extremely dark and authors Rob Thomas and Jennifer Graham handle the case with an appropriate sensitivity.
As in the first book, there's strength in her interactions with her father and friends. Her interactions with both Logan and Weevil are given time to shine and shine they do. Specifically, Veronica's relationship with Logan is one of maturity, love, and yes, a lingering sadness but it definitely works in all its (in their way) traditionally heartbreaking glory. Weevil's entire plot is both heartbreaking and complicated and one I hope to see continue or at least spotlighted in future books.
Veronica herself is wonderful in MKAT. She maintains her signature fire and wit with an adult edge. She is still the moody, driven, complicated character we all grew to love in the show and film and she's just a glorious heroine. Thomas and Graham do an excellent job of keeping her human and real.
The book definitely sets up future installments and I genuinely can't wait for more if they choose to continue the series. I've already pre-ordered MKAT and this will very likely be one book I come back to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday for giving me the opportunity to review.
Veronica Mars is back for another case and it's a doozy. Mr. Kiss and Tell was a highly enjoyable and quick read. The subject matter is extremely dark and authors Rob Thomas and Jennifer Graham handle the case with an appropriate sensitivity.
As in the first book, there's strength in her interactions with her father and friends. Her interactions with both Logan and Weevil are given time to shine and shine they do. Specifically, Veronica's relationship with Logan is one of maturity, love, and yes, a lingering sadness but it definitely works in all its (in their way) traditionally heartbreaking glory. Weevil's entire plot is both heartbreaking and complicated and one I hope to see continue or at least spotlighted in future books.
Veronica herself is wonderful in MKAT. She maintains her signature fire and wit with an adult edge. She is still the moody, driven, complicated character we all grew to love in the show and film and she's just a glorious heroine. Thomas and Graham do an excellent job of keeping her human and real.
The book definitely sets up future installments and I genuinely can't wait for more if they choose to continue the series. I've already pre-ordered MKAT and this will very likely be one book I come back to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Doubleday for giving me the opportunity to review.
March 27, 2015
Really a 3.5, but I rounded up. Three stars for creativity and storyline. FOUR STARS FOR LOGAN ECHOLLS.
April 15, 2016
Finished reading: February 23rd 2016
“What do you think? More cheese? Less cheese? Different cheese?� Keith held up a measuring cup of shredded mozzarella and looked inquiringly at Veronica across the kitchen island. She was slicing tomatoes but paused mid chop to look up with one raised brow. “When is the answer ever less cheese?� “Fair point.� He dumped the entire cup into the mixing bowl and started to stir.�
P.S. Find more of my reviews .
August 17, 2016
I didn't enjoy this nearly as much as the first one, but I still can't bring myself to give it any less than four stars because I love the characters and the continuing story so much.
Pros:
- The return of characters from the series.
- PUPPY!!!!!!
- Logan and Veronica basically living together.
- Veronica operating in that morally grey zone that she does so well.
- Keith continuing to be the best fictional parent on the face of the earth.
- Mac being awesome.
- The feels-inducing story behind why Logan joined the military.
- Lamb getting taken down a million pegs.
- A potential love interest for Keith.
- Veronica taking on the cases that no one else cares about and seeing them through to the end.
Cons:
- Insufficient Wallace.
- Flirtations between Veronica and Leo. Dude. We've been there, done that. Don't go there again.
- Insufficient Logan. Yes, we get them buying a puppy and living together and going to weekly family dinners with Keith. But the vast majority of his presence seems to be in a "Oh, I'm going to be home late, I'd better text Logan" kind of a way. He's home, but it's almost like Thomas didn't know how to fit him into Veronica's story so he's almost tacked on as an afterthought. I think the puppy got more page time than Logan did...
- Lamb being his usual big fat bag of dicks self.
- Various police officials being all "Raping a prostitute isn't rape, it's shoplifting". Ugh. Ugh ugh ugh.
- Driving a wedge between Weevil and Veronica. STOP.
On the whole, I really enjoyed it. But there were a few moments that would have worked brilliantly on screen that didn't translate so well to the page, and I'd reeeeeeeeeeeally love it if we saw more of Veronica being Friend!Veronica with Weevil and Mac, and not just Investigator!Veronica using her friends to get the answers that she needs.
Pros:
- The return of characters from the series.
- PUPPY!!!!!!
- Logan and Veronica basically living together.
- Veronica operating in that morally grey zone that she does so well.
- Keith continuing to be the best fictional parent on the face of the earth.
- Mac being awesome.
- The feels-inducing story behind why Logan joined the military.
- Lamb getting taken down a million pegs.
- A potential love interest for Keith.
- Veronica taking on the cases that no one else cares about and seeing them through to the end.
Cons:
- Insufficient Wallace.
- Flirtations between Veronica and Leo. Dude. We've been there, done that. Don't go there again.
- Insufficient Logan. Yes, we get them buying a puppy and living together and going to weekly family dinners with Keith. But the vast majority of his presence seems to be in a "Oh, I'm going to be home late, I'd better text Logan" kind of a way. He's home, but it's almost like Thomas didn't know how to fit him into Veronica's story so he's almost tacked on as an afterthought. I think the puppy got more page time than Logan did...
- Lamb being his usual big fat bag of dicks self.
- Various police officials being all "Raping a prostitute isn't rape, it's shoplifting". Ugh. Ugh ugh ugh.
- Driving a wedge between Weevil and Veronica. STOP.
On the whole, I really enjoyed it. But there were a few moments that would have worked brilliantly on screen that didn't translate so well to the page, and I'd reeeeeeeeeeeally love it if we saw more of Veronica being Friend!Veronica with Weevil and Mac, and not just Investigator!Veronica using her friends to get the answers that she needs.
January 17, 2016
Actual rating 3.5
I really enjoyed the time I spend reading this book, through it the strongest feeling I had was the nostalgia its so sweet to recall good memories and shocking how much you can remember of the things you think you never need to remember them again and so bitter to think about all the time past. With so many years past from the Veronica Mars TV show it still is one my all time favorites and for me not engaging more characters from Veronica's past was a downer is a must-read book for the Veronica Mars fans and a not-so-bad thriller in general.
Saeed.
I really enjoyed the time I spend reading this book, through it the strongest feeling I had was the nostalgia its so sweet to recall good memories and shocking how much you can remember of the things you think you never need to remember them again and so bitter to think about all the time past. With so many years past from the Veronica Mars TV show it still is one my all time favorites and for me not engaging more characters from Veronica's past was a downer is a must-read book for the Veronica Mars fans and a not-so-bad thriller in general.
Saeed.
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