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Tracers #11
At Close Range
New York Times bestselling author Laura Griffin “delivers the goods� (Publishers Weekly) again with the eleventh title in the gritty, heart-pounding Tracers series.
When a lakeside tryst ends in a double murder, police detective Daniele Harper arrives on the scene determined to get answers. Clues are everywhere, but nothing adds up. Dani turns to the Delphi Center crime lab for help, but soon regrets it when her secret attraction to their chief firearms examiner threatens to distract her from the most important case of her career.
As a ballistics expert and former Navy SEAL, Scott Black knows firearms, and he knows he can help Dani unravel her case. Scott has managed to hide his interest in his best friend’s younger sister for years, but when her investigation brings them together, the sparks between them quickly get out of control. Scott resolves to keep his hands off Dani and his eyes on the goal—identifying a killer. But when that killer zeroes in on Dani, all bets are off. There isn’t a line Scott won’t cross to convince Dani to trust him so that he can help her take down a ruthless murderer who has her in his sights.
When a lakeside tryst ends in a double murder, police detective Daniele Harper arrives on the scene determined to get answers. Clues are everywhere, but nothing adds up. Dani turns to the Delphi Center crime lab for help, but soon regrets it when her secret attraction to their chief firearms examiner threatens to distract her from the most important case of her career.
As a ballistics expert and former Navy SEAL, Scott Black knows firearms, and he knows he can help Dani unravel her case. Scott has managed to hide his interest in his best friend’s younger sister for years, but when her investigation brings them together, the sparks between them quickly get out of control. Scott resolves to keep his hands off Dani and his eyes on the goal—identifying a killer. But when that killer zeroes in on Dani, all bets are off. There isn’t a line Scott won’t cross to convince Dani to trust him so that he can help her take down a ruthless murderer who has her in his sights.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 31, 2017
577 people are currently reading
2,976 people want to read
About the author
Laura Griffin
52books3,704followersLaura Griffin is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than thirty books and novellas. She is a two-time RITA Award winner, as well as the recipient of the Daphne du Maurier Award. Laura got her start in journalism before venturing into the world of suspense fiction. Her books have been translated into fourteen languages. Laura lives in Austin, Texas, where she is working on her next novel.
Series:
* Texas Murder Files
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* Moreno and Hart Mysteries
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* The Borderline
Series:
* Texas Murder Files
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*
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* Moreno and Hart Mysteries
*
* The Borderline
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
February 9, 2017
Each and every book I've read in the Tracers series has been intense. Gritty. Exciting. Sexy. Unputdownable. With this latest installment, has proved to me, once again, she can nail the perfect balance between taut suspense and magnetic chemistry. Each time I’m faced with the same quandary - do I devour the book in a few mere hours or drag it out and savor it? Care to guess what happened this time? To be honest, Daniele and Scott didn’t leave me much of a choice.
What I loved most about this one was the history between Dani and Scott. Her older brother’s best friend, Dani grew up crushing on Scott. Honestly, who wouldn’t? Forced to retire from the military after an injury, he’s incredibly gorgeous and now a top ballistics expert at the Delphi Center.
They end up working a case together, but there's one major problem - Scott becomes the number one suspect. Is everyone around her right? Is their history clouding her judgement? Besides childhood memories, Dani and Scott shared a drunken kiss and have been avoiding each other ever since. She’s accepted the fact that he doesn’t do relationships and he won't betray his best friend by making a move on his sister.
Let me tell you, Dani and Scott’s connection is INTENSE. They both have valid reasons for holding back, but when they finally give in it’s EXPLOSIVE. Both likable characters, they're made even more so with the natural connection they share. I seriously could not get enough of these two. I have read a ton of suspense/police procedurals and romance books, so believe me when I say - this is the perfect mix of both worlds.
“You’re going to be sorry you did this.�
Sometimes, when I see a series that has a lot of books, eleven in this case, it seems daunting to start from the beginning. Don’t let the number of books in this series stop you from picking this one up. I assure you, each book can be read as a standalone. I've skipped around and read these completely out of order. Getting glimpses of characters from previous books is always a nice surprise and there are no spoilers of any kind. If you enjoy thrillers and great love stories - READ THIS SERIES!
*THANK YOU to Gallery/Pocket Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What I loved most about this one was the history between Dani and Scott. Her older brother’s best friend, Dani grew up crushing on Scott. Honestly, who wouldn’t? Forced to retire from the military after an injury, he’s incredibly gorgeous and now a top ballistics expert at the Delphi Center.
They end up working a case together, but there's one major problem - Scott becomes the number one suspect. Is everyone around her right? Is their history clouding her judgement? Besides childhood memories, Dani and Scott shared a drunken kiss and have been avoiding each other ever since. She’s accepted the fact that he doesn’t do relationships and he won't betray his best friend by making a move on his sister.
Let me tell you, Dani and Scott’s connection is INTENSE. They both have valid reasons for holding back, but when they finally give in it’s EXPLOSIVE. Both likable characters, they're made even more so with the natural connection they share. I seriously could not get enough of these two. I have read a ton of suspense/police procedurals and romance books, so believe me when I say - this is the perfect mix of both worlds.
“You’re going to be sorry you did this.�
Sometimes, when I see a series that has a lot of books, eleven in this case, it seems daunting to start from the beginning. Don’t let the number of books in this series stop you from picking this one up. I assure you, each book can be read as a standalone. I've skipped around and read these completely out of order. Getting glimpses of characters from previous books is always a nice surprise and there are no spoilers of any kind. If you enjoy thrillers and great love stories - READ THIS SERIES!
*THANK YOU to Gallery/Pocket Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
At Close Range by Laura Griffin is a 2017 Pocket Books publication.
Oh, yeah! The Tracers, baby!!
While I have enjoyed all of the books in the series that I’ve read so far, this is one of the best of Griffin's recent releases.
Dani gets her shot at being the lead detective in a double homicide, and she is experiencing a case of the nerves. But, things get even stranger when her brother’s best friend, Scott, becomes the prime suspect.
Scott is a former SEAL is adjusting to civilian life and is fighting off a long time attraction to Dani, the sister of his best friend. But, when the ballistics expert is implicated in a double murder, he and Dani are thrown together in a high octane situation and the sparks between fly higher than ever before.
But, it soon becomes apparent that Dani is a target and Scott intends to do everything he can to clear his name and keep Dani safe.
Whew! Scott and Dani have a sizzling hot chemistry between them and I loved that they were friends for a long time before the relationship changed. The romance is super hot and Scott is an almost perfect alpha personality.
But, the murder investigation, which takes up the most real estate in the novel, and rightly so, is very, very interesting and the action is incredibly tense and suspenseful.
This book gets back to the sort of storyline that first attracted me to his series. Griffin rarely disappoints, but this time she’s taken things up a notch. If you enjoy this series, I think you’re going to love this new chapter. If you are new to the series, you shouldn’t have a problem reading this one as a stand alone. So, if you like action packed romantic suspense, I don’t think you could ask for more!!
4.5 stars
Oh, yeah! The Tracers, baby!!
While I have enjoyed all of the books in the series that I’ve read so far, this is one of the best of Griffin's recent releases.
Dani gets her shot at being the lead detective in a double homicide, and she is experiencing a case of the nerves. But, things get even stranger when her brother’s best friend, Scott, becomes the prime suspect.
Scott is a former SEAL is adjusting to civilian life and is fighting off a long time attraction to Dani, the sister of his best friend. But, when the ballistics expert is implicated in a double murder, he and Dani are thrown together in a high octane situation and the sparks between fly higher than ever before.
But, it soon becomes apparent that Dani is a target and Scott intends to do everything he can to clear his name and keep Dani safe.
Whew! Scott and Dani have a sizzling hot chemistry between them and I loved that they were friends for a long time before the relationship changed. The romance is super hot and Scott is an almost perfect alpha personality.
But, the murder investigation, which takes up the most real estate in the novel, and rightly so, is very, very interesting and the action is incredibly tense and suspenseful.
This book gets back to the sort of storyline that first attracted me to his series. Griffin rarely disappoints, but this time she’s taken things up a notch. If you enjoy this series, I think you’re going to love this new chapter. If you are new to the series, you shouldn’t have a problem reading this one as a stand alone. So, if you like action packed romantic suspense, I don’t think you could ask for more!!
4.5 stars
February 23, 2018
Detective Daniele (Dani) Harper catches a high profile double murder and is assigned as lead even though she doesn’t have a host of experience. She holds her own and is only thrown off her balance when Delphi Center firearms expert Scott Black joins the investigation. He’s one of her brother’s best friends and very much a part of her law enforcement family but six months ago they stumbled out of the friends zone and things have been awkward since.
This was one of those cases where solid investigative and forensic skills were needed because nothing about the murders seemed to make sense on the surface. I really enjoyed the forensic analyses, learning a lot more about firearms, weaponry and sharp shooting than I believed I already knew. Things got really interesting when Scott was compromised and that additional angle made this a stronger story. Dani and Scott’s relationship was adeptly developed, fitting into the investigation neatly and messily at the same time. They made a good team on all levels and I liked them both.
I was drawn in from the onset and never could deduce what was going on, which was unusual for me but kept me immersed in the action and the case. Everything about this story worked.
This was one of those cases where solid investigative and forensic skills were needed because nothing about the murders seemed to make sense on the surface. I really enjoyed the forensic analyses, learning a lot more about firearms, weaponry and sharp shooting than I believed I already knew. Things got really interesting when Scott was compromised and that additional angle made this a stronger story. Dani and Scott’s relationship was adeptly developed, fitting into the investigation neatly and messily at the same time. They made a good team on all levels and I liked them both.
I was drawn in from the onset and never could deduce what was going on, which was unusual for me but kept me immersed in the action and the case. Everything about this story worked.
February 7, 2017
A couple is found shot and killed in the forest, and Dani finds herself heading the investigation into their deaths. The murders are high profile, but Dani finds more questions than answers as she investigates. Integral to the investigation is the Delphi Center, a forensic specialty center lending its services to the local police in cases where quick, solid answers are necessary. Scott Black, Dani’s long time unrequited crush, is the resident expert of ballistics from the Delphi Center assigned to the case throwing Dani and Scott together after an steamy New Year’s encounter six months earlier. They shared a drunken, passionate kiss, and since then Scott has been avoiding her. Can they keep things professional tracking down a ruthless killer? I certainly hoped not!
At Close Range blended together all the things I love in romantic suspense: lots of action, danger, and a romance full of chemistry! I do love a romance of unrequited love! Scott and Dani’s history is full of yearning and denial, setting the romance up for an inevitable collision; something a long time coming! Scott was the best friend of Dani’s older brother, and basically for fifteen years Dani has secretly lusted for him. She knows his reputation with women. Never seeing him with the same one twice, Dani’s very hesitant to start anything with Scott, even with the explosive chemistry they share. She doesn’t want to be another notch in his bedpost and lose their friendship in the process, but at the same time working together they can’t resist the insane pull between them:
“Scott, aren’t you worried about everything?�
“N.�
“I am.� She eased back and looked at him. “This could ruin our friendship.�
“I don’t want to be your friend anymore, Daniele.� He slid a hand up to cup her face. “It’s this or nothing for us.�
They spend nights together after barely surviving the attacks thrown their way, and all that pent up attraction boils to the surface making for some pretty heated scenes! It was a, hot, exciting read!
I’ve only read one other book in the Tracers series, but this didn’t hamper my enjoyment at all. At Close Range can be read and enjoyed completely as a stand-alone story. Buckle up for an intense ride!
A copy was kindly provided by Pocket Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
At Close Range blended together all the things I love in romantic suspense: lots of action, danger, and a romance full of chemistry! I do love a romance of unrequited love! Scott and Dani’s history is full of yearning and denial, setting the romance up for an inevitable collision; something a long time coming! Scott was the best friend of Dani’s older brother, and basically for fifteen years Dani has secretly lusted for him. She knows his reputation with women. Never seeing him with the same one twice, Dani’s very hesitant to start anything with Scott, even with the explosive chemistry they share. She doesn’t want to be another notch in his bedpost and lose their friendship in the process, but at the same time working together they can’t resist the insane pull between them:
“Scott, aren’t you worried about everything?�
“N.�
“I am.� She eased back and looked at him. “This could ruin our friendship.�
“I don’t want to be your friend anymore, Daniele.� He slid a hand up to cup her face. “It’s this or nothing for us.�
They spend nights together after barely surviving the attacks thrown their way, and all that pent up attraction boils to the surface making for some pretty heated scenes! It was a, hot, exciting read!
I’ve only read one other book in the Tracers series, but this didn’t hamper my enjoyment at all. At Close Range can be read and enjoyed completely as a stand-alone story. Buckle up for an intense ride!
A copy was kindly provided by Pocket Books via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
The Queen of mystery and suspense has done it again!
It's criminal how good Griffin is at creating an atmosphere that not only lasts throughout a book but an entire series! If you haven't had the pleasure of reading this series. Stop. Grab book one and get ready for one of the most amazing binge read sessions you've ever had.
What more can I say? Laura Griffin is writing perfection.
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It's criminal how good Griffin is at creating an atmosphere that not only lasts throughout a book but an entire series! If you haven't had the pleasure of reading this series. Stop. Grab book one and get ready for one of the most amazing binge read sessions you've ever had.
What more can I say? Laura Griffin is writing perfection.
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April 11, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense
POV: Third person, shifting
Setting: San Marcos, Texas
Overall likability of characters: 5/5
With only four homicide cases under her belt, Daniele "Dani" Harper is appointed as the lead detective on the latest homicide case to sweep through the San Marcos Police Department. A local university professor and his research assistant have been murdered and Dani plunges herself headfirst into following through with every lead.
Reading this book felt like watching a CSI Miami episode unfold, including a bit of angsty romance thrown in for good measure! The firearms expert, Scott Black, was Dani's romantic interest and he played the moody but thoughtful hero quite well. Overall, this story was well-rounded: there was a bit of action, romance, big brother protectiveness, and a few mysteries to be solved. First time reading this author's work and it's refreshing that this is one of those series where you can jump right into the story without having to read the five or ten books that came before it. Enjoyed!
POV: Third person, shifting
Setting: San Marcos, Texas
Overall likability of characters: 5/5
With only four homicide cases under her belt, Daniele "Dani" Harper is appointed as the lead detective on the latest homicide case to sweep through the San Marcos Police Department. A local university professor and his research assistant have been murdered and Dani plunges herself headfirst into following through with every lead.
Reading this book felt like watching a CSI Miami episode unfold, including a bit of angsty romance thrown in for good measure! The firearms expert, Scott Black, was Dani's romantic interest and he played the moody but thoughtful hero quite well. Overall, this story was well-rounded: there was a bit of action, romance, big brother protectiveness, and a few mysteries to be solved. First time reading this author's work and it's refreshing that this is one of those series where you can jump right into the story without having to read the five or ten books that came before it. Enjoyed!
December 22, 2016
So damn good!
~~~~~~~~~~~
One of my favorite genre’s to read is romantic suspense. After all, you get the best of both worlds. Hot guys, sweet love, mystery, intrigue, and suspense that makes your heart pitter patter.
One thing you learn while reading in this genre is who are the authors that can bring the goods. I have read several of Laura Griffin’s books and I know she is one author I can count on for an exciting and engaging read.
The first thoughts that come to mind when I think about this book is HOT and Delicious. WOW. This author knows how to combine everything we want from a romance book and everything we want from a police/military action suspense novel.
At Close Range is a beautiful balance of hot and spicy with gritty and raw. You get the best of both worlds. I love how Laura Griffin understands how to blend and balance work and real life feelings. You get the push and pull. You can feel the connections.
Check out the full review
~~~~~~~~~~~
One of my favorite genre’s to read is romantic suspense. After all, you get the best of both worlds. Hot guys, sweet love, mystery, intrigue, and suspense that makes your heart pitter patter.
One thing you learn while reading in this genre is who are the authors that can bring the goods. I have read several of Laura Griffin’s books and I know she is one author I can count on for an exciting and engaging read.
The first thoughts that come to mind when I think about this book is HOT and Delicious. WOW. This author knows how to combine everything we want from a romance book and everything we want from a police/military action suspense novel.
At Close Range is a beautiful balance of hot and spicy with gritty and raw. You get the best of both worlds. I love how Laura Griffin understands how to blend and balance work and real life feelings. You get the push and pull. You can feel the connections.
Check out the full review
February 6, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review. Thank you for a wonderful birthday present.
Yeah!! Scott Black, former SEAL and weapons expert, gets his own book, finally. I am so glad he didn't end up with the skank defense attorney from . I have been waiting for this book. When you follow a supporting character through several books, you think you know them. Well, be prepared to be surprised by the real Scott that we have not seen previously. WOW!!
Dani Harper is the younger sister of Scott Black's best friend and, as far as Scott is concerned, untouchable. Except, all he can think about is the hot kiss they shared on New Year's Eve. Now, 7 months later, they are working the same double murder case and he can't seem to get his feelings for her under control. Dani has to same feelings, except, now Scott is the prime suspect in those murders.
Can anyone spell FRAME UP? That is exactly what is happening here and a not very smart frame up either. A murder weapon is found with Scott's prints all over it. Let's be real here. If Scott Black wanted to murder someone, no trace of that person would ever be found. Scott, former Navy SEAL and weapons expert extraordinaire, is not stupid and leaving fingerprints on a weapon is most stupid. That said, whoever is doing this is spec-ops trained, funded and ruthless. And he wants Dani dead, something Scott is not about to let happen.
Yeah!! Scott Black, former SEAL and weapons expert, gets his own book, finally. I am so glad he didn't end up with the skank defense attorney from . I have been waiting for this book. When you follow a supporting character through several books, you think you know them. Well, be prepared to be surprised by the real Scott that we have not seen previously. WOW!!
Dani Harper is the younger sister of Scott Black's best friend and, as far as Scott is concerned, untouchable. Except, all he can think about is the hot kiss they shared on New Year's Eve. Now, 7 months later, they are working the same double murder case and he can't seem to get his feelings for her under control. Dani has to same feelings, except, now Scott is the prime suspect in those murders.
Can anyone spell FRAME UP? That is exactly what is happening here and a not very smart frame up either. A murder weapon is found with Scott's prints all over it. Let's be real here. If Scott Black wanted to murder someone, no trace of that person would ever be found. Scott, former Navy SEAL and weapons expert extraordinaire, is not stupid and leaving fingerprints on a weapon is most stupid. That said, whoever is doing this is spec-ops trained, funded and ruthless. And he wants Dani dead, something Scott is not about to let happen.
February 7, 2017
Laura Griffin knows how to mix suspense and romance in a perfect combination! She makes you invested in the mystery as well as the couple's budding attraction.
At Close Range has Daniele Harper as the lead detective investigating a double murder in the park. The deceased were working at the same university and they were having an affair. Dani knows the Delphi Center will need to help them with this case. When Scott Black shows up to help with the ballistic evidence, she tries hard to remain unaffected by him. Dani has known Scott for a long time. He's her older brother's best friend. He is an ex-SEAL and after an injury, he now works for the Delphi Center. Scott and Dani have shared one kiss months back and neither has forgotten it. Nonetheless, she knows Scott is not looking for a serious relationship. Maintaining her distance is the smart thing to do. But, when Scott's job and freedom are at stake and someone starts shooting at Dani, neither wants to continue keeping their restraint.
I was so excited to read this book. I loved Deep Dark and I was sure this one was going to be as good. The story flows smoothly and the plot was always intriguing. As for the main characters, I couldn't wait until they got together and when they did, it was everything I wanted it to be.
Dani was trying hard to prove she could do her job. I could feel how tired and stressed she was feeling while trying to deal with her feelings for Scott and not losing her cool.
Scott was stubborn but in the best way. He wouldn't let go of the investigation or of Dani. He knew he could help her and he needed to keep her safe.
I can't wait for the next one in this series! I'm excited to see the next couple fall in love while solving a case.
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Pocket Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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November 17, 2016
4.25 Suspenseful Stars
This was my first Laura Griffin book and it won’t be my last. If you are into suspenseful, totally shocking, didn’t see it coming kind of read, then At Close Range is for you.
I love suspenseful books, the more mysterious the better in my opinion and At Close Range hit all the right spots for me. I felt like I was watching a murder mystery on TV. The book is well written, the characters are very developed and I was just sucked into the plot.
This isn’t a super romance book, BUT there is a love story and it’s kind of like the added extra bonus, a nice treat. I was mostly interested in solving the case.
The book starts with a bang and instantly you are thrown into some murders. Who killed them? Why? How are they related? So many questions and I couldn’t get enough of it.
Dani is the detective on the case and she is good at her job. She has to work extra hard as a female on the force, but she can hold her ground. I really liked her. I liked getting into the mind-set of Dani and figuring out with her. I enjoyed reading her following on each lead.
Scott is the ballistic expert, think CSI and **gasp** he and Dani sort of have a thing for each other. I like the Scott and Dani dynamics it was kind of a slow burn relationship and it added something to the book. Scott doesn’t do commitment and he doesn’t want to start anything with Dani, but he cares for her. When Scott is somehow linked to the case, it kind of brings Dani closer to Scott and things start to happen.
There’s so much action, plot and twist jam pack in this book. There was never a dull read. Like I said, if you want a good suspenseful, murder mystery book with a side of romance, then this one is for you.
TBR January 31st
This was my first Laura Griffin book and it won’t be my last. If you are into suspenseful, totally shocking, didn’t see it coming kind of read, then At Close Range is for you.
I love suspenseful books, the more mysterious the better in my opinion and At Close Range hit all the right spots for me. I felt like I was watching a murder mystery on TV. The book is well written, the characters are very developed and I was just sucked into the plot.
This isn’t a super romance book, BUT there is a love story and it’s kind of like the added extra bonus, a nice treat. I was mostly interested in solving the case.
The book starts with a bang and instantly you are thrown into some murders. Who killed them? Why? How are they related? So many questions and I couldn’t get enough of it.
Dani is the detective on the case and she is good at her job. She has to work extra hard as a female on the force, but she can hold her ground. I really liked her. I liked getting into the mind-set of Dani and figuring out with her. I enjoyed reading her following on each lead.
Scott is the ballistic expert, think CSI and **gasp** he and Dani sort of have a thing for each other. I like the Scott and Dani dynamics it was kind of a slow burn relationship and it added something to the book. Scott doesn’t do commitment and he doesn’t want to start anything with Dani, but he cares for her. When Scott is somehow linked to the case, it kind of brings Dani closer to Scott and things start to happen.
There’s so much action, plot and twist jam pack in this book. There was never a dull read. Like I said, if you want a good suspenseful, murder mystery book with a side of romance, then this one is for you.
TBR January 31st
February 19, 2017
Laura Griffin is one of my favorite authors and I've read almost every single one of her books. I'm now starting to re-read them. Part of why I like her books so much is that she has found a nice balance between providing a well written suspense plot and providing a good group of characters that you like reading about. I love the setting of the Delphi Center and the law enforcement groups working with them.
I was really excited about At Close Range and was really happy when I received the book via the ŷ give away program. Yeah me!
And this was a 5 star read for me. I really enjoyed reading it.
More to come...
I was really excited about At Close Range and was really happy when I received the book via the ŷ give away program. Yeah me!
And this was a 5 star read for me. I really enjoyed reading it.
More to come...
Read
March 6, 2017she's one of my top faves. this is hands down my fave romantic suspense series.
March 27, 2017
Tracersis one of my favorite crime thriller slash romantic suspense series. While a lot of Laura Griffin's earlier work wasn't to my liking, I found that I slowly started becoming hooked to her Tracersseries, and before I knew it, I'd read every single book available.
Now I devour each book as they are published and look forward to the next, as well as keeping tabs on other projects Griffin may be creating.
Granted, every so often, one of her books will come off as a regurgitation of something she's already written, with a few switch-ups, I still find myself enjoying them. Because, if it's one thing she knows how to do well, it's being able to reel the reader into a gripping, un-put-down-able suspense that has you turning pages.
And also, it doesn't hurt that her characters aren't hard to relate with.
The Story:
A lakeside tryst turns into a double murder. Select persons of interest turn up dead as Daniele Harper is tasked to lead the investigation. Meanwhile, crucial evidence turns ballistics expert, Scott Black into the police's main suspect. Having grown up with Scott, Dani finds it hard to believe that he would commit murder, especially after finding a solid alibi for Scott's whereabouts during the killings. That means that someone is trying to frame the ex-Navy warrior.
When Dani and her team learn that these killings had been planned months in advance--starting from the selection of Scott as the scapegoat--they also uncover evidence that something much deeper is happening. And as Dani's investigation leads her closer to the truth of the murders, a professional hit man might also be gunning for her life.
My Thoughts:
As I'd stated, sometimes Laura Griffin books feel like they'd been written before somewhere in her back list. Fortunately, At Close Rangefeels like an exciting breath of fresh air, despite being another crime thriller and murder mystery in a sea of crime thrillers and murder mysteries. And also despite there being a few elements that Griffin has used before. Because we get to watch and follow very intimately as Dani and Scott uncover one piece of evidence after another, acquiring knowledge that slowly pieces the mystery together.
Granted, the ending twist felt a little far-fetched, and maybe a bit over-dramatic, I still found myself flipping pages until the very end. A little before the mid-point of the book, the story becomes less of a "Whodunnit" and more of a "Why are we killing?" Because a professional hit man is uncovered, but now we need to know who hired him, what connects all of these victims, why are they all dying, and why Dani is in his cross-hairs as well.
Meanwhile, we get introduced to a few new characters whom I believe will probably be featured in Griffin's next Tracersnovel.
One of the things I appreciate about Laura Griffin is how naturally she incorporates new characters, because the introductions don't ever feel forced for the sake of setting up back story for a new novel. Instead, Sean Byrne pulls his weight quite well as one of the police detectives working with Dani on her case. Brooke Porter, a Delphi Center forensics trace evidence tech might have already been introduced before, but I don't recall for certain.
And then there are the previous characters, also included into the book quite naturally. Of course, I must point out that Ric Santos seems to keep going through partners like a new trend. Throughout the series, I think I've seen him partnered up with at least two other detectives. This is a big town and a big world after all, and I suppose you don't always see the same officers and detectives and forensic scientists, but I'd still like to know what happened to the other guys Ric had worked with previously.
Anyway, back to our main couple and their story...
Daniele is a tough, smart, and resourceful detective who is given her first case as lead detective, which kind of shakes her up a little bit since she's at that "I'm not sure if I'm up for that challenge yet" stage. But that doesn't keep her from doing her job, even if it might rub others the wrong way. So I like that she maintains her level head throughout the case. Of course, except where Scott is concerned, obviously.
Still, she's a great character, even if a little detached.
Scott is a typical alpha male, who, unfortunately turns into a repeat of previously created male characters in Griffin's Tracersworld. He's ex-military, and somehow has decided to take it upon himself to investigate the case because he doesn't feel like he can trust law enforcement to clear his name. I can understand his concerns since a crucial piece of evidence is pointing arrows at his head, but it also bothered me that Scott seemed a bit contradictory in his way of thinking. And it also bugged me that he purposefully omitted his alibi, thus impeding the investigation, forcing Dani to go on a wild goose chase to find his alibi for him--in the meantime, she could have been following a different lead.
In some of his monologues, he is consistently thinking that Daniele is a great detective and will be able to handle a murder investigation--he even tells her so a couple times. But then he turns around and talks about how he'd be damned to leave this investigation in law enforcement hands because he can't trust that they'd be able to do it properly. In a round about way, that's like telling Dani to her face that he doesn't trust that she knows what she's doing so he's going to do it himself.
So... I kept wondering... he either believes that she can help him by tracking down the real killer, or he doesn't. It seemed kind of frustrating that he couldn't quite make up his mind.
Of course, if he weren't so arrogant about his own superior investigating skills, then we wouldn't get to see Dani and Scott in action together, figuring out significant details of the case.
Meanwhile, Scott also goes a bit caveman on Dani, by pretty much telling her to sit back and let himdo her job. This is something that seems to come into play a lot with a few other Laura Griffin books, and really bugs me. Daniele is a trained law enforcement officer, and lead detective of the current story line's murder case. It seems rather insulting for Scott to suggest she should "call the cops" to deal with crime, or that she should go hide somewhere while he apprehends a suspect.
For some people, I'm sure it comes off manly and protective. But I simply see it as an insulting gesture wherein he cements his subconscious distrust of Dani's skills as a police detective, even as he tells her aloud that he believes in her. And so I DID like that Dani calls him out at some point in the book, when her house is broken into and she chases after the mysterious suspect. He'd told her she shouldn't have gone after the guy who broke into her home; she snaps back something to the effect of, "Should I have called the cops instead?" clearly trying to point out that she is, after all, a cop.
Because given the same scenario with either of the male detectives in her place, I'm sure Scott wouldn't have bothered suggesting that said maledetectiveNOT go after the culprit--probably would have gotten ribbed if he had stayed home obediently and dialed 911 instead. Thus is the social double standard.
And also, Dani DID dial 911 and reported her break-in. She just also went after the guy while she was at it.
Anyway... getting off of my soapbox...
To conclude: At Close Rangeis an exciting, page-turning, intensely suspenseful new addition to the Tracersseries. I look forward to reading the next one.
***
I originally wanted to use this book as part of the Romance Bingo 2017 for the Blown Awaysquare, trying to connect it with guns and shooting, as well as the explosions that happen in the book... but I decided that that would be stretching it too much.
Now I devour each book as they are published and look forward to the next, as well as keeping tabs on other projects Griffin may be creating.
Granted, every so often, one of her books will come off as a regurgitation of something she's already written, with a few switch-ups, I still find myself enjoying them. Because, if it's one thing she knows how to do well, it's being able to reel the reader into a gripping, un-put-down-able suspense that has you turning pages.
And also, it doesn't hurt that her characters aren't hard to relate with.
The Story:
A lakeside tryst turns into a double murder. Select persons of interest turn up dead as Daniele Harper is tasked to lead the investigation. Meanwhile, crucial evidence turns ballistics expert, Scott Black into the police's main suspect. Having grown up with Scott, Dani finds it hard to believe that he would commit murder, especially after finding a solid alibi for Scott's whereabouts during the killings. That means that someone is trying to frame the ex-Navy warrior.
When Dani and her team learn that these killings had been planned months in advance--starting from the selection of Scott as the scapegoat--they also uncover evidence that something much deeper is happening. And as Dani's investigation leads her closer to the truth of the murders, a professional hit man might also be gunning for her life.
My Thoughts:
As I'd stated, sometimes Laura Griffin books feel like they'd been written before somewhere in her back list. Fortunately, At Close Rangefeels like an exciting breath of fresh air, despite being another crime thriller and murder mystery in a sea of crime thrillers and murder mysteries. And also despite there being a few elements that Griffin has used before. Because we get to watch and follow very intimately as Dani and Scott uncover one piece of evidence after another, acquiring knowledge that slowly pieces the mystery together.
Granted, the ending twist felt a little far-fetched, and maybe a bit over-dramatic, I still found myself flipping pages until the very end. A little before the mid-point of the book, the story becomes less of a "Whodunnit" and more of a "Why are we killing?" Because a professional hit man is uncovered, but now we need to know who hired him, what connects all of these victims, why are they all dying, and why Dani is in his cross-hairs as well.
Meanwhile, we get introduced to a few new characters whom I believe will probably be featured in Griffin's next Tracersnovel.
One of the things I appreciate about Laura Griffin is how naturally she incorporates new characters, because the introductions don't ever feel forced for the sake of setting up back story for a new novel. Instead, Sean Byrne pulls his weight quite well as one of the police detectives working with Dani on her case. Brooke Porter, a Delphi Center forensics trace evidence tech might have already been introduced before, but I don't recall for certain.
And then there are the previous characters, also included into the book quite naturally. Of course, I must point out that Ric Santos seems to keep going through partners like a new trend. Throughout the series, I think I've seen him partnered up with at least two other detectives. This is a big town and a big world after all, and I suppose you don't always see the same officers and detectives and forensic scientists, but I'd still like to know what happened to the other guys Ric had worked with previously.
Anyway, back to our main couple and their story...
Daniele is a tough, smart, and resourceful detective who is given her first case as lead detective, which kind of shakes her up a little bit since she's at that "I'm not sure if I'm up for that challenge yet" stage. But that doesn't keep her from doing her job, even if it might rub others the wrong way. So I like that she maintains her level head throughout the case. Of course, except where Scott is concerned, obviously.
Still, she's a great character, even if a little detached.
Scott is a typical alpha male, who, unfortunately turns into a repeat of previously created male characters in Griffin's Tracersworld. He's ex-military, and somehow has decided to take it upon himself to investigate the case because he doesn't feel like he can trust law enforcement to clear his name. I can understand his concerns since a crucial piece of evidence is pointing arrows at his head, but it also bothered me that Scott seemed a bit contradictory in his way of thinking. And it also bugged me that he purposefully omitted his alibi, thus impeding the investigation, forcing Dani to go on a wild goose chase to find his alibi for him--in the meantime, she could have been following a different lead.
In some of his monologues, he is consistently thinking that Daniele is a great detective and will be able to handle a murder investigation--he even tells her so a couple times. But then he turns around and talks about how he'd be damned to leave this investigation in law enforcement hands because he can't trust that they'd be able to do it properly. In a round about way, that's like telling Dani to her face that he doesn't trust that she knows what she's doing so he's going to do it himself.
So... I kept wondering... he either believes that she can help him by tracking down the real killer, or he doesn't. It seemed kind of frustrating that he couldn't quite make up his mind.
Of course, if he weren't so arrogant about his own superior investigating skills, then we wouldn't get to see Dani and Scott in action together, figuring out significant details of the case.
Meanwhile, Scott also goes a bit caveman on Dani, by pretty much telling her to sit back and let himdo her job. This is something that seems to come into play a lot with a few other Laura Griffin books, and really bugs me. Daniele is a trained law enforcement officer, and lead detective of the current story line's murder case. It seems rather insulting for Scott to suggest she should "call the cops" to deal with crime, or that she should go hide somewhere while he apprehends a suspect.
For some people, I'm sure it comes off manly and protective. But I simply see it as an insulting gesture wherein he cements his subconscious distrust of Dani's skills as a police detective, even as he tells her aloud that he believes in her. And so I DID like that Dani calls him out at some point in the book, when her house is broken into and she chases after the mysterious suspect. He'd told her she shouldn't have gone after the guy who broke into her home; she snaps back something to the effect of, "Should I have called the cops instead?" clearly trying to point out that she is, after all, a cop.
Because given the same scenario with either of the male detectives in her place, I'm sure Scott wouldn't have bothered suggesting that said maledetectiveNOT go after the culprit--probably would have gotten ribbed if he had stayed home obediently and dialed 911 instead. Thus is the social double standard.
And also, Dani DID dial 911 and reported her break-in. She just also went after the guy while she was at it.
Anyway... getting off of my soapbox...
To conclude: At Close Rangeis an exciting, page-turning, intensely suspenseful new addition to the Tracersseries. I look forward to reading the next one.
***
I originally wanted to use this book as part of the Romance Bingo 2017 for the Blown Awaysquare, trying to connect it with guns and shooting, as well as the explosions that happen in the book... but I decided that that would be stretching it too much.
March 6, 2021
Yessssss!!! Scott Black gets his own book!!! Yay!!! (I am maybe more excited about this than I should be!)
And it was as good as I'd hoped. More closer to release date!
And it was as good as I'd hoped. More closer to release date!
February 7, 2017
So, I took a break from RS books and even this series (have missed a couple of books in between) and am so glad I did. I totally loved this book, the characters, the romance, the investigation- all of it and I am so going to go back and read the books I have missed. I do remember Scott from other books and loved reading about Ric and Mia again.
November 29, 2017
4/5; 4 stars; A-
Laura Griffin usually writes pretty darned good romantic suspense. This one was a good addition to the Tracers series. I was glad to see Scott Black find something to smile about.
Laura Griffin usually writes pretty darned good romantic suspense. This one was a good addition to the Tracers series. I was glad to see Scott Black find something to smile about.
February 5, 2017
Get ready for a THRILLING ride�
The first three minutes will leave you gasping and wanting more, more and more. What happens next??? I felt like I was watching a mystery movie. From the first two pages, I was caught. I started yelling RUN, RUN, RUN� Don’t you hear me!!!
The book is very well written. The descriptiveness of it created a beautiful visual that will keep you enthralled. I became so involved, I started writing down clues to see if I would be able to solve the mystery. I was captivated to the very end.
I liked Dani’s drive and her no nonsense attitude. The interaction between her and Scott was great. The chemistry between them was SCORCHING�. There is so much that I want to say but if I do I will give away the story.
The ending was surprising; I definitely didn’t see that coming. I DIDN’T SOLVE IT� I WAS WRONG� It was my first time reading a book by this author and it won’t be my last.
I was given a copy through NetGalley for an honest review.
The first three minutes will leave you gasping and wanting more, more and more. What happens next??? I felt like I was watching a mystery movie. From the first two pages, I was caught. I started yelling RUN, RUN, RUN� Don’t you hear me!!!
The book is very well written. The descriptiveness of it created a beautiful visual that will keep you enthralled. I became so involved, I started writing down clues to see if I would be able to solve the mystery. I was captivated to the very end.
I liked Dani’s drive and her no nonsense attitude. The interaction between her and Scott was great. The chemistry between them was SCORCHING�. There is so much that I want to say but if I do I will give away the story.
The ending was surprising; I definitely didn’t see that coming. I DIDN’T SOLVE IT� I WAS WRONG� It was my first time reading a book by this author and it won’t be my last.
I was given a copy through NetGalley for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
***ARC Provided via NetGalley and Tasty Book Tours***
4.5 Stars
As with all of Laura Griffin's books, I was really looking forward to reading this title, and it did not disappoint.
Daniele and Scott were great. I thought the balance with their relationship, the draw they had to one another, and the suspense was perfect. It is tough to make this work, to let the romance be enhanced by the suspense, and there is a reason there are 11 of these books...it is because Laura Griffin has this handled well. It is balanced, the pacing is strong, the suspense moves the story without slowing it down.
The only issue I had was the relationships around Ric. Without going into detail, he was very happily married...but there were some odd interactions around his wife and those he came into contact with that I did think pulled me a little out of the story at times. (No cheating or anything like that, promise). This did make the pacing in those parts of it seem off, and this is the reason this book isn't a 5 star read for me.
That said, I recommend this book...it is one of those books you enjoy from beginning to end and find yourself thinking that it is a pleasure to read.
4.5 Stars
As with all of Laura Griffin's books, I was really looking forward to reading this title, and it did not disappoint.
Daniele and Scott were great. I thought the balance with their relationship, the draw they had to one another, and the suspense was perfect. It is tough to make this work, to let the romance be enhanced by the suspense, and there is a reason there are 11 of these books...it is because Laura Griffin has this handled well. It is balanced, the pacing is strong, the suspense moves the story without slowing it down.
The only issue I had was the relationships around Ric. Without going into detail, he was very happily married...but there were some odd interactions around his wife and those he came into contact with that I did think pulled me a little out of the story at times. (No cheating or anything like that, promise). This did make the pacing in those parts of it seem off, and this is the reason this book isn't a 5 star read for me.
That said, I recommend this book...it is one of those books you enjoy from beginning to end and find yourself thinking that it is a pleasure to read.
December 22, 2016
So damn good! I love this series.
February 6, 2017
Loooooved this one. Great series.
Review coming
Review coming
March 11, 2017
This review was originally posted on
Summary
When a young couple is found murdered, by the lake, Daniele Harper is brought in as the head police detective to discover what really happened. She is determined to find the answers to a double homicide, that doesn't quite make sense. There are clues in random places and when her brothers best friend, the Chief firearms examiner is implicated in it, Daniele has just realized how much harder it is going to be. Because she has emotional ties to Scott Black. She knows that any interest in him is forbidden and not just professionally. He could easily break her heart if she lets him. Scott Black is a ex Navy SEAL, and now works as a Firearms Examiner, and he is being framed for a double murder he had no involvement in and must find a way to clear his name or all he has worked for will go down the drain including finding the real murderer. But as Daniele and Scott get closer to finding the real murderer, their lives are in danger and are in the hunt of their lives.
The Hero
Scott Black is a Ex Navy SEAL, and is still adjusting to civilian life. He was never ready to leave his team or the crazy and intense life he became accustomed to. And this new life that he has to get used to which is not easy. Scott has always found himself attraction to Dani, but she is forbidden because she is the sister to his best friend. He respects those boundaries, and keeps his distance from her even though there is a part of him that doesn't want to.
Her courage humbled him. It was a different kind from what he had. He had courage in combat, yeah, but emotional courage always had been in short supply.
Scott is quite the sexy alpha ex SEAL that you would want in a story like this. I love how he just goes and does what needs to be done, and the consequences can go out the window. It fits with him being ex military and as a SEAL he knows how to get things done.
The Heroine
Daniele Harper, is shocked when she learns that she will be the head detective on this case and there are quite a few eyes on this double homicide. At first she is uneasy, because she isn't sure she is ready, but she fits into her role quite nicely and adjusts pretty quickly. I love how quickly she adapts to the situations she is dealt with. Dani has probably been in love with Scott for quite some time, but hasn't fully realized it. She knows he is not for her, she knows that he only has one night stands and it wouldn't do her any good to get involved with him. I loved her strong and take control personality. But you see how torn she is emotionally and that really draws you in.
Plot and Story Line
At Close Range is the first book that I have read from this author and I am so glad that I took a chance on this book. This book is pretty wonderful, I haven't read a suspense in a little while and was really craving a book like this. Now this book isn't going to be for everyone especially if you are looking for a strong romantic elements. There is a romance and a happy ending, but its not the main aspect of the story. The mystery and the suspense filled plot is what takes control in this book but I really liked that. I think there was a part of me that wished there was a bit more focus on the romance. There is so much that goes on in this book and it was a intense filled ride. I loved the way this author wrote this book because the surprises never stopped coming and I never knew which way was up, or who the real villain was until the end. It does get pretty action packed and I felt like I was on a roller coaster at times. The author really works the reader so well in this book. I think the real downside to this book was the ending, it had a more happy for now feel than that they would really end up together. I would have liked to have felt more satisfied about Dani and Scott as a couple. But other than that, this story was fantastic and can't wait to read more from this author.
The Cover
I like white covers on books, and I like the window effect of the forest there....quite leads to a mysterious effect.
Overall View
At Close Range is a action filled story that is intense, wraps around your senses and is fast moving and mysterious enough to keep you on the edge of your seat....watch out for this one folks!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="26651"]
When a young couple is found murdered, by the lake, Daniele Harper is brought in as the head police detective to discover what really happened. She is determined to find the answers to a double homicide, that doesn't quite make sense. There are clues in random places and when her brothers best friend, the Chief firearms examiner is implicated in it, Daniele has just realized how much harder it is going to be. Because she has emotional ties to Scott Black. She knows that any interest in him is forbidden and not just professionally. He could easily break her heart if she lets him. Scott Black is a ex Navy SEAL, and now works as a Firearms Examiner, and he is being framed for a double murder he had no involvement in and must find a way to clear his name or all he has worked for will go down the drain including finding the real murderer. But as Daniele and Scott get closer to finding the real murderer, their lives are in danger and are in the hunt of their lives.
The Hero
Scott Black is a Ex Navy SEAL, and is still adjusting to civilian life. He was never ready to leave his team or the crazy and intense life he became accustomed to. And this new life that he has to get used to which is not easy. Scott has always found himself attraction to Dani, but she is forbidden because she is the sister to his best friend. He respects those boundaries, and keeps his distance from her even though there is a part of him that doesn't want to.
Her courage humbled him. It was a different kind from what he had. He had courage in combat, yeah, but emotional courage always had been in short supply.
Scott is quite the sexy alpha ex SEAL that you would want in a story like this. I love how he just goes and does what needs to be done, and the consequences can go out the window. It fits with him being ex military and as a SEAL he knows how to get things done.
The Heroine
Daniele Harper, is shocked when she learns that she will be the head detective on this case and there are quite a few eyes on this double homicide. At first she is uneasy, because she isn't sure she is ready, but she fits into her role quite nicely and adjusts pretty quickly. I love how quickly she adapts to the situations she is dealt with. Dani has probably been in love with Scott for quite some time, but hasn't fully realized it. She knows he is not for her, she knows that he only has one night stands and it wouldn't do her any good to get involved with him. I loved her strong and take control personality. But you see how torn she is emotionally and that really draws you in.
Plot and Story Line
At Close Range is the first book that I have read from this author and I am so glad that I took a chance on this book. This book is pretty wonderful, I haven't read a suspense in a little while and was really craving a book like this. Now this book isn't going to be for everyone especially if you are looking for a strong romantic elements. There is a romance and a happy ending, but its not the main aspect of the story. The mystery and the suspense filled plot is what takes control in this book but I really liked that. I think there was a part of me that wished there was a bit more focus on the romance. There is so much that goes on in this book and it was a intense filled ride. I loved the way this author wrote this book because the surprises never stopped coming and I never knew which way was up, or who the real villain was until the end. It does get pretty action packed and I felt like I was on a roller coaster at times. The author really works the reader so well in this book. I think the real downside to this book was the ending, it had a more happy for now feel than that they would really end up together. I would have liked to have felt more satisfied about Dani and Scott as a couple. But other than that, this story was fantastic and can't wait to read more from this author.
The Cover
I like white covers on books, and I like the window effect of the forest there....quite leads to a mysterious effect.
Overall View
At Close Range is a action filled story that is intense, wraps around your senses and is fast moving and mysterious enough to keep you on the edge of your seat....watch out for this one folks!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="26651"]
March 19, 2017
Another good romantic suspense in this series with lots of action and a complex case to unravel. It had a interesting twist with the hero's role. Again in this Tracers book I found the romance weak but the exciting plot compensates. Ex-SEAL now ballistics expert Scott is called in to examine bullets in a case where police officer Dani is assigned lead investigator.
February 7, 2017
Laura Griffin's AT CLOSE RANGE is a captivating and thrilling roller coaster of a ride with so many twist and turns...I NEVER wanted to get off!
AT CLOSE RANGE kicks off with Dani Harper, a new detective from a law enforcement family, and on of our favorite characters, Scott Black happens to be the best friend of one of her older brothers. She's known Scott for the last 15 years, and she hadn't seen him since a wild and unexpected New Years Eve kiss the two shared a few months ago.
I think one of the reasons that I love (and when I say love, I mean LOVE) Laura Griffin's Tracers series (and really ALL of her books) is because she is able to weave a remarkable romance into the INSANE plot that she has laid out before us, and it ALWAYS just works. I am never saying, oh there was too much of this and not enough of that, NO, they are ALL top notch, amazing romance suspense reads and I encourage ALL of you to go forth, buy EVERY Tracers romance (including THREAD OF FEAR and WHISPER OF WARNING...cause Jack and Fiona...come on), and do a weekend binge on the Tracers, you will NEVER be the same!
AT CLOSE RANGE was, in my opinion, on of the most romantic of the Tracers. There was just something so special about Dani and Scott, and I was literally thinking about them when I wasn't reading, and that is when I know that I am reading a romance that will stay with me always.
Between the lustful looks and the sizzling, stolen kisses, Laura Griffin gives us a story line that had me thinking more than ever about the case. I was so involved in the story, I found myself trying to connect the pieces and think one step ahead, but she kept on throwing so many curve balls at the reader, I was holding on until the very last pages, watching it all unfold.
After the many many years that I have been devouring Laura's romance suspense novels, I think it's safe to say that when it comes down to the smallest details and an interwoven plot that keeps the reader hooked, Griffin is untouched!
I can highly recommend the Tracers series to ALL readers of romance, suspense, fiction and all the stuff in between, literally my Grandfather loves this series, and if that isn't a selling point, I don't know what is. They can ALL be read as standalones, so you can start anywhere, but EVERY and I mean EVERY Tracers romance is insanely engaging and a MUST read in my book! Don't miss out! Start today!
AT CLOSE RANGE kicks off with Dani Harper, a new detective from a law enforcement family, and on of our favorite characters, Scott Black happens to be the best friend of one of her older brothers. She's known Scott for the last 15 years, and she hadn't seen him since a wild and unexpected New Years Eve kiss the two shared a few months ago.
I think one of the reasons that I love (and when I say love, I mean LOVE) Laura Griffin's Tracers series (and really ALL of her books) is because she is able to weave a remarkable romance into the INSANE plot that she has laid out before us, and it ALWAYS just works. I am never saying, oh there was too much of this and not enough of that, NO, they are ALL top notch, amazing romance suspense reads and I encourage ALL of you to go forth, buy EVERY Tracers romance (including THREAD OF FEAR and WHISPER OF WARNING...cause Jack and Fiona...come on), and do a weekend binge on the Tracers, you will NEVER be the same!
AT CLOSE RANGE was, in my opinion, on of the most romantic of the Tracers. There was just something so special about Dani and Scott, and I was literally thinking about them when I wasn't reading, and that is when I know that I am reading a romance that will stay with me always.
Between the lustful looks and the sizzling, stolen kisses, Laura Griffin gives us a story line that had me thinking more than ever about the case. I was so involved in the story, I found myself trying to connect the pieces and think one step ahead, but she kept on throwing so many curve balls at the reader, I was holding on until the very last pages, watching it all unfold.
After the many many years that I have been devouring Laura's romance suspense novels, I think it's safe to say that when it comes down to the smallest details and an interwoven plot that keeps the reader hooked, Griffin is untouched!
I can highly recommend the Tracers series to ALL readers of romance, suspense, fiction and all the stuff in between, literally my Grandfather loves this series, and if that isn't a selling point, I don't know what is. They can ALL be read as standalones, so you can start anywhere, but EVERY and I mean EVERY Tracers romance is insanely engaging and a MUST read in my book! Don't miss out! Start today!
February 7, 2017
AT CLOSE RANGE is the 11th book in the Tracers series and it was everything I expected from Griffin and more. Her heart stopping series is full of action, sexy and keeps me coming back for more every single time.
Dani and Scott had chemistry from the very beginning. I love the trope of falling in love with your best friends sister and Griffin not only gave them a HEA but she gave them just enough drama that kept me on the edge of my seat. Dani had been crushing on Scott for a long time and frankly I could see the appeal. Scott was badass yet he had s soft spot for Dani.
Dani and Scott end up working a case together and Scott becomes a suspect. Ouch.Dani is set out to find out if Scott really guilty but Scott is looking to clear his own name. The closer they get to the truth and who is behind the murders Dani and Scott get closer and the danger is intense.
Griffin's Tracers series is everything I love in a romantic suspense. I couldn't get enough of Scott and Dani and felt their romance was explosive. While it took a while for the romance to get going it was definitely worth the wait. I want to say I read this series for the romance but the truth is I read it for the suspense. Griffin has a way with words and her stories feel like movies. Each story could be read as a standalone but starting from the beginning will keep you hooked. Each story is different yet memorable.
Dani and Scott had chemistry from the very beginning. I love the trope of falling in love with your best friends sister and Griffin not only gave them a HEA but she gave them just enough drama that kept me on the edge of my seat. Dani had been crushing on Scott for a long time and frankly I could see the appeal. Scott was badass yet he had s soft spot for Dani.
Dani and Scott end up working a case together and Scott becomes a suspect. Ouch.Dani is set out to find out if Scott really guilty but Scott is looking to clear his own name. The closer they get to the truth and who is behind the murders Dani and Scott get closer and the danger is intense.
Griffin's Tracers series is everything I love in a romantic suspense. I couldn't get enough of Scott and Dani and felt their romance was explosive. While it took a while for the romance to get going it was definitely worth the wait. I want to say I read this series for the romance but the truth is I read it for the suspense. Griffin has a way with words and her stories feel like movies. Each story could be read as a standalone but starting from the beginning will keep you hooked. Each story is different yet memorable.
October 17, 2017
👏 👏 👏, another hit by Ms.Griffin, this lady can't do wrong, hmm maybe she can if she writes cooking books because her leading characters hardly eat+they don't like getting medical treatment.
Okay, back to this. This is my third book of hers and this is the first book that the heroine shares with us that she has serious feelings towards the hero from the start. As for the hero, hard to like him at first because:
a. Does he want more with the Dani or
z. He just wants to have a great time without commitment.
There answer, of course it's
Now to the case, absolute superb!
Cause of death; guns, arson and explosion. Thank God, no knife this time 😱.
This story gives us a glimpse of the next couple, a detective and a csi agent, looking forward to it.
Okay, back to this. This is my third book of hers and this is the first book that the heroine shares with us that she has serious feelings towards the hero from the start. As for the hero, hard to like him at first because:
a. Does he want more with the Dani or
z. He just wants to have a great time without commitment.
There answer, of course it's
Now to the case, absolute superb!
Cause of death; guns, arson and explosion. Thank God, no knife this time 😱.
This story gives us a glimpse of the next couple, a detective and a csi agent, looking forward to it.
March 21, 2017
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so 4.5 stars
Although At Close Range is the eleventh book in Laura Griffin’s Tracers series, I didn’t feel as though I’d missed out by not having read the previous ten books. Information about the Tracers themselves and the highly advanced forensic facility at which they work is disseminated quickly and without getting bogged down in too much detail; and even though some characters from the earlier novels make appearances, they are here as secondary characters and there’s no overlap of their stories with this one.
The plot is fast-moving and complex, with plenty of action and suspense and a focus on a particular area of science which is very relevant, giving the story a really up-to-the-minute feel. But not everything is flashy and hi-tech; the plotlines and characteristics are very strongly grounded in reality � even for a Brit whose knowledge of the US justice system comes primarily from watching the various police procedurals which grace our TV screens ;).
Recently-minted Detective Daniele (Dani) Harper is both pleased and wary when she is assigned as lead detective on the case of the double homicide of a college professor and the young woman with whom he was having an affair. While it’s flattering that her boss, Ric Santos, feels she’s up to the job, the fact that the victims were both on staff at the local university means the case is going to attract a lot of media attention, and deep down, Dani is worried that she’s not ready to take on a leadership role. But she’s nothing if not tenacious so she grits her teeth and throws herself into the investigation, determined not to let Ric down and to show that she � the daughter of a cop and sister of a prosecutor with the DA’s office � has earned her place through dint of sheer hard work and not because of her family connections.
Firearms and ballistics expert Scott Black joined the Tracers � the forensic team at the Delphi Center � when a knee injury forced him to retire from his work as a Navy SEAL. He and Dani have known each other for around fifteen years owing to his friendships with her brothers, so he’s always treated her like his best friend’s kid sister. But that changed a few months earlier when they shared a drunken New Year’s Eve kiss, and things have been awkward between them ever since. Dani has fancied Scott for years, but never thought anything would come of it � and while he is equally attracted to her, according to the unwritten code of guy friendship, his friend’s little sister is strictly off limits.
When Scott arrives at the crime scene, Dani isn’t sure whether to be relieved or dismayed. She knows he’s the best at what he does, but doesn’t want the feelings she still harbours for him to get in the way of their working together. Worse, it’s obvious right from the start that this is going to be a tough case. The crime scene is surprisingly unhelpful; the female victim had no ID or phone � or none that was found � and the bullets and shell-casings retrieved are useless. Good old-fashioned policing reveals the dead woman to have been Tessa Lovett, research assistant to James Ayres, professor of microbiology, and the woman with whom he’d been having an affair for quite some time. Moreover, both victims had previously worked together in New Mexico, and both had recently relocated to San Marco � to a less prestigious university � and taken pay cuts, neither of which makes sense.
The ante is well and truly upped when Dani’s house is broken into late at night and her ID and laptop are stolen. She gives chase but is unable to catch up with the interloper � and it becomes even more evident that she’s dealing with something other than a simple crime of passion perpetrated against an adulterous husband. Events take an even more surprising turn when Scott is implicated in the crime and he is suspended from duty. Whoever is behind the murders has planned meticulously, always seeming to be one step ahead of Dani in a bewildering game of cat and mouse as each lead she uncovers seems doomed to be cut off before she can pursue it. And although Scott is officially off the case, he’ll be damned before he leaves the task of proving his innocence to someone else, even someone he trusts as much as Dani. But his determination to protect her as well as to find out who has framed him risks the integrity of the evidence and the entire case; and when the perpetrators put them firmly in the firing line, their relationship is tested even as the ever-present attraction between them ignites into something neither is quite sure how to handle.
The suspense story is extremely well-put together, with lots of unforeseeable twists and turns and moments of high-octane drama, and I found myself on the edge of my seat several times. Ms. Griffin really knows how to pile on the tension without taking things too far; as an example, there’s a brilliant set-piece around the middle of the book which is a terrific example of how to write a heroes-in-peril action scene, and in which the descriptions and imagery are so vivid that it was like I was watching a movie in my head.
The romance between Scott and Dani is well done, too, although it’s secondary to the suspense plot. The pair has known each other for years, so their unacknowledged mutual attraction is of fairly long standing and the chemistry between them is pretty intense. Since he came back from Afghanistan, Scott’s only relationships have been of the one-night variety, and even though he wants Dani, he tries to hold back, believing she deserves better than him. His mixed signals � one minute he’s kissing her, the next he’s keeping his distance � and his insistence on pursuing his own investigation infuriate the hell out of Dani, but she also knows there’s no-one else she’d rather have watching her back. They circle around each other warily, neither of them wanting to admit to anything they can’t pull back from, but as the danger intensifies, it becomes impossible for them to go on denying that there’s more between them than sexual attraction.
At Close Range is an exciting, action-packed story that certainly won’t be the last I’ll read by Laura Griffin. The plot is well-constructed and the resolution is audacious but plausible with cleverly planted clues; and the two principals are strongly characterised and well-matched. Because the novels are standalones, it’s the sort of series one can dip in and out of, so I’ll definitely be revisiting the team at the Delphi Center in the not too distant future.
Although At Close Range is the eleventh book in Laura Griffin’s Tracers series, I didn’t feel as though I’d missed out by not having read the previous ten books. Information about the Tracers themselves and the highly advanced forensic facility at which they work is disseminated quickly and without getting bogged down in too much detail; and even though some characters from the earlier novels make appearances, they are here as secondary characters and there’s no overlap of their stories with this one.
The plot is fast-moving and complex, with plenty of action and suspense and a focus on a particular area of science which is very relevant, giving the story a really up-to-the-minute feel. But not everything is flashy and hi-tech; the plotlines and characteristics are very strongly grounded in reality � even for a Brit whose knowledge of the US justice system comes primarily from watching the various police procedurals which grace our TV screens ;).
Recently-minted Detective Daniele (Dani) Harper is both pleased and wary when she is assigned as lead detective on the case of the double homicide of a college professor and the young woman with whom he was having an affair. While it’s flattering that her boss, Ric Santos, feels she’s up to the job, the fact that the victims were both on staff at the local university means the case is going to attract a lot of media attention, and deep down, Dani is worried that she’s not ready to take on a leadership role. But she’s nothing if not tenacious so she grits her teeth and throws herself into the investigation, determined not to let Ric down and to show that she � the daughter of a cop and sister of a prosecutor with the DA’s office � has earned her place through dint of sheer hard work and not because of her family connections.
Firearms and ballistics expert Scott Black joined the Tracers � the forensic team at the Delphi Center � when a knee injury forced him to retire from his work as a Navy SEAL. He and Dani have known each other for around fifteen years owing to his friendships with her brothers, so he’s always treated her like his best friend’s kid sister. But that changed a few months earlier when they shared a drunken New Year’s Eve kiss, and things have been awkward between them ever since. Dani has fancied Scott for years, but never thought anything would come of it � and while he is equally attracted to her, according to the unwritten code of guy friendship, his friend’s little sister is strictly off limits.
When Scott arrives at the crime scene, Dani isn’t sure whether to be relieved or dismayed. She knows he’s the best at what he does, but doesn’t want the feelings she still harbours for him to get in the way of their working together. Worse, it’s obvious right from the start that this is going to be a tough case. The crime scene is surprisingly unhelpful; the female victim had no ID or phone � or none that was found � and the bullets and shell-casings retrieved are useless. Good old-fashioned policing reveals the dead woman to have been Tessa Lovett, research assistant to James Ayres, professor of microbiology, and the woman with whom he’d been having an affair for quite some time. Moreover, both victims had previously worked together in New Mexico, and both had recently relocated to San Marco � to a less prestigious university � and taken pay cuts, neither of which makes sense.
The ante is well and truly upped when Dani’s house is broken into late at night and her ID and laptop are stolen. She gives chase but is unable to catch up with the interloper � and it becomes even more evident that she’s dealing with something other than a simple crime of passion perpetrated against an adulterous husband. Events take an even more surprising turn when Scott is implicated in the crime and he is suspended from duty. Whoever is behind the murders has planned meticulously, always seeming to be one step ahead of Dani in a bewildering game of cat and mouse as each lead she uncovers seems doomed to be cut off before she can pursue it. And although Scott is officially off the case, he’ll be damned before he leaves the task of proving his innocence to someone else, even someone he trusts as much as Dani. But his determination to protect her as well as to find out who has framed him risks the integrity of the evidence and the entire case; and when the perpetrators put them firmly in the firing line, their relationship is tested even as the ever-present attraction between them ignites into something neither is quite sure how to handle.
The suspense story is extremely well-put together, with lots of unforeseeable twists and turns and moments of high-octane drama, and I found myself on the edge of my seat several times. Ms. Griffin really knows how to pile on the tension without taking things too far; as an example, there’s a brilliant set-piece around the middle of the book which is a terrific example of how to write a heroes-in-peril action scene, and in which the descriptions and imagery are so vivid that it was like I was watching a movie in my head.
The romance between Scott and Dani is well done, too, although it’s secondary to the suspense plot. The pair has known each other for years, so their unacknowledged mutual attraction is of fairly long standing and the chemistry between them is pretty intense. Since he came back from Afghanistan, Scott’s only relationships have been of the one-night variety, and even though he wants Dani, he tries to hold back, believing she deserves better than him. His mixed signals � one minute he’s kissing her, the next he’s keeping his distance � and his insistence on pursuing his own investigation infuriate the hell out of Dani, but she also knows there’s no-one else she’d rather have watching her back. They circle around each other warily, neither of them wanting to admit to anything they can’t pull back from, but as the danger intensifies, it becomes impossible for them to go on denying that there’s more between them than sexual attraction.
At Close Range is an exciting, action-packed story that certainly won’t be the last I’ll read by Laura Griffin. The plot is well-constructed and the resolution is audacious but plausible with cleverly planted clues; and the two principals are strongly characterised and well-matched. Because the novels are standalones, it’s the sort of series one can dip in and out of, so I’ll definitely be revisiting the team at the Delphi Center in the not too distant future.
August 1, 2020
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February 7, 2017
While this is book 11 in the series, it is only the second book from the author that I've read (it's worth noting that I wasn't lost in the series, as each book is a different couple). Like the previous book I read, Deep Dark, this story involves characters from the police force and the Delphi Center, a laborartory of foresic specialists.
As a fan of romantic suspense, what I have loved about this author is the depth and complexity of her storylines. This story kicks off with what seemed like a random shooting, and my initial thought was: how is this going to be an interesting story. Seemed so basic. But it didn't take long for me to be put in my place. Because this story is far from simple.
There's a multitude of developments that build the complexity of the plot:
A possibly framed team member.
Multiple deaths of aqaintances.
Military style bombs.
Controversial testing.
Compromised evidence.
The author does a great job of layering in all of the elements above. The details are introduced that made it easy to follow along, yet leaving me totally clueless as to the direction of the story was going and who the kiler(s) may be. The worst thing you can do with this genre is have a predictable storyline and thankfully, the author avoids that pitfall.
As this is romantic suspense, there is a budding love story involving two of the investigators. There were a lot of reasons this couple should stay clear of each other, and it had nothing to do that one was the sister of the other's best friend. Dani and Scott have known each other for years, but the relationship didn't take shape until they were thrown into each other's paths repeatedly with the investigation. They took a lot of chances and broke some rules along the way, especially on Dani's side, as she let Scott have more reign than should have been allowed in her position. Scott also was reckless at times and could have ruined both of their careers. However, most everything seems to work in their favor.
If you are looking for detailed and thorough look into a crime with unexpected twists, this story may be for you.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
As a fan of romantic suspense, what I have loved about this author is the depth and complexity of her storylines. This story kicks off with what seemed like a random shooting, and my initial thought was: how is this going to be an interesting story. Seemed so basic. But it didn't take long for me to be put in my place. Because this story is far from simple.
There's a multitude of developments that build the complexity of the plot:
A possibly framed team member.
Multiple deaths of aqaintances.
Military style bombs.
Controversial testing.
Compromised evidence.
The author does a great job of layering in all of the elements above. The details are introduced that made it easy to follow along, yet leaving me totally clueless as to the direction of the story was going and who the kiler(s) may be. The worst thing you can do with this genre is have a predictable storyline and thankfully, the author avoids that pitfall.
As this is romantic suspense, there is a budding love story involving two of the investigators. There were a lot of reasons this couple should stay clear of each other, and it had nothing to do that one was the sister of the other's best friend. Dani and Scott have known each other for years, but the relationship didn't take shape until they were thrown into each other's paths repeatedly with the investigation. They took a lot of chances and broke some rules along the way, especially on Dani's side, as she let Scott have more reign than should have been allowed in her position. Scott also was reckless at times and could have ruined both of their careers. However, most everything seems to work in their favor.
If you are looking for detailed and thorough look into a crime with unexpected twists, this story may be for you.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
February 6, 2017
This is the latest book in this series. Which just happens to be one of my favorite current series. As a mystery and romantic mystery fan, you will enjoy this series as well. The best part is that the books can be read as stand alone novels. Yes, some of the relationships and past events may carry over to the nest book but nothing that would cause a new reader to have issues following along.
I honestly could not figure out the motive for the killings. This is a good problem to have as a fan of mystery stories. The author did a nice job of keeping me guessing until all of the pieces were revealed at the end. Speaking of the end. This is where most of the action took place. In the last several chapters. Prior to that, I do admit I wished that the story had been amped up a few dials. Yet, I was busy with Dani and Scott's relationship. Or I should say, their desire to have a relationship. I could feel the chemistry between these two and it was smothering. Strap in for a great read!
I honestly could not figure out the motive for the killings. This is a good problem to have as a fan of mystery stories. The author did a nice job of keeping me guessing until all of the pieces were revealed at the end. Speaking of the end. This is where most of the action took place. In the last several chapters. Prior to that, I do admit I wished that the story had been amped up a few dials. Yet, I was busy with Dani and Scott's relationship. Or I should say, their desire to have a relationship. I could feel the chemistry between these two and it was smothering. Strap in for a great read!
March 30, 2019
At Close Range is Scott Black and Daniele Harper's story. This is a best friends little sister story. Scott has stayed far away from Daniele out of respect to her brother until a recent double murder brings them together.
Scott Black is a former Seal who had to leave due to a knee injury. He lost more than just his job that day and that has affected his way of life. He is known for going from one meaningless hookup to another and his main focus is his job at the Delphi Center as a ballistics expert.
Daniele Harper is a fairly new detective on the police force. She has to be tough when her job is surrounded by so many alpha men in the police force. She's always had a thing for Scott but she knows what he is like with random women and she doesn't want to be one more.
I struggled with this couple. I'm not the biggest fan of the commitment phobe man and Daniele wasn't as strong as I think she should have been. But, the suspense in this book was what I really enjoyed. This author really knows how to pull a reader into the story. I loved the investigation process and trying to put the pieces together. This far out weighed my frustrations with the romance aspect of the book.
Scott Black is a former Seal who had to leave due to a knee injury. He lost more than just his job that day and that has affected his way of life. He is known for going from one meaningless hookup to another and his main focus is his job at the Delphi Center as a ballistics expert.
Daniele Harper is a fairly new detective on the police force. She has to be tough when her job is surrounded by so many alpha men in the police force. She's always had a thing for Scott but she knows what he is like with random women and she doesn't want to be one more.
I struggled with this couple. I'm not the biggest fan of the commitment phobe man and Daniele wasn't as strong as I think she should have been. But, the suspense in this book was what I really enjoyed. This author really knows how to pull a reader into the story. I loved the investigation process and trying to put the pieces together. This far out weighed my frustrations with the romance aspect of the book.
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