Readers Say the Darnedest Things

Yes, I used to watch Art Linkletter. It came on TV in Bisbee while I was home from school for lunch. I could watch his “kids” segment and still make it back to Greenway School on time as long as I ran part of the way.

I started to name this blog “Fans Say the Darnedest Things,” but I changed it to “Readers” to broaden the scope.

Years ago, during the Q & A session at a book signing, a woman seated in the front row raised her hand. “My father was a doctor,” she said. “My husband is a doctor, but that doesn’t mean I can be a doctor. And just because Joanna’s father was a sheriff and her husband was a sheriff doesn’t mean she can be a sheriff.” In actual fact, Joanna’s husband, Andy, was a sheriff’s deputy running for the office of sheriff when he was gunned down, but I didn’t point that out to the lady in question. Pointing out that someone in the room is dead wrong isn’t polite and my mother, Evie, would not approve.

Instead I explained that yes, when Joanna was elected to office on what was generally regarded as a sympathy vote, most people had expected her to be sheriff in name only. I finished by asking my questioner if she had read book number three, Shoot/Don’t Shoot, in which Joanna sends herself through police academy training so she can become a professional law enforcement officer.

“No,” she told me. “I don’t like those books.”

In that case, I wondered, why the blazes are you here? For the record, the word that passed through my head was not “blazes,” and I didn’t ask that question aloud either. As far as I know, I’ve never seen that ‘reader” again.

And yesterday, I heard from another one. “Second watch was very good unfinished business I did not like I wanted mystery not family info, I dont care who lives or dies if it isnt part of the story very boring.”

Okie dokie then. I quoted the entire message because it really left me scratching my head, and not just because of the very long run-on sentence and all the missing pieces of punctuation. Obviously she objected to the part of the book that told the story of what happened to Ali’s father, Bob Larson. My problem is, Bob Larson has always been part of the story. How he and Edie lived their lives is a major part of what makes Ali Reynolds who she is. And if you only care about whether or not the bad guys live and die, aren’t you missing out on the best part of the story? If you don’t want to be bothered with any of the background context then maybe sticking to newspaper accounts would be preferable in terms of reading material.

I don’t see my characters as super-heroes. They are ordinary people living ordinary lives. That includes those very important three Ls—Living, Loving, and Losing. I want my readers to care about the good guys and understand the bad guys.

As my mother would have expected, I sent yesterday’s correspondent a polite response: “Sorry you were disappointed. My characters aren’t superheroes. It turns out I am interested in who lives and who dies, so perhaps my books aren’t for you.”

Were both these folks readers? Yes. Are they fans? No. I doubt I’ll be hearing from her again, either.

93 thoughts on “Readers Say the Darnedest Things

  1. One of the things I like best is all the family characters! They add a tremendous amount to your story lines! The books I watch for are yours and Lee Child’s. All the rest that I read are “fillers” for times between you two authors!

    • I’m with you on those authors. Also a fan of C.J. Box!! (Wyoming game warden Joe Picket mysteries series)

      • I like C. J. Box as well, also Louise Penney, but I haven’t tried Lee Child–maybe I will now. As a filler between JAJ books.

      • I loved Sue graftons A thru Y series, kinsey Milhone. I love Michael Connelly Harry Bosch series and his Lincoln Lawyer. I adore Sara Paretsky with the iconic VI Washawski and Ms Jance books are amazing. So many great writers and long time characters. Story tellers that allow us to get to know their characters as time goes by. The back stories as well as their assets and flaws. They are all such a joy.

      • I am continually surprised by remarks made by readers, their demands on authors, etc. Why would you continue reading a series you don’t like and then complain about it? Some people really need to be reminded that, no matter how enjoyable the story or how much you invest in the characters, it’s FICTION! Read it and enjoy your mini-vacation!

      • CJ Box got on a soapbox and gave a sermon, not a story in one of his books and I haven’t been back since.

    • The “family” elements of your books are what sets them apart. I have so enjoyed reading about sheriff Brady’s life as it transitioned from widow to newly wed to mother (again). Same with Ali. And it’s always great to catch up on what’s going on J.P. your characters live and grow – and solve murders, too.

  2. Art Linkletter and the “March Around the Breakfast Table”. So some of you watched Buster Brown and Froggie too.

  3. I enjoy the background information that you give on the characters in your books. I get to know them personally and feel as if they are my friends. It was J. P. Beaumont that I got to know and went through all his good and bad times with. You are a great story teller and I thank you for giving us readers a way to escape our lives for just a bit and enter into the lives of your characters.

  4. I love the idea that ordinary people can step up and do extraordinary things. I love your books—-all of them! Your readers must like the “true crime” stories better than fiction.
    Keep on doing what you’re doing!

  5. In your Walker Family series, I did not like the parts where you delve into the diaseased mind of the murderer/abuser. But that’s just me. I don’t enjoy delving into the thoughts of any abuser no matter what book I read.
    This does not, in any way, distract me from enjoying the series otherwise or any of your other books.
    I am a fan as well as a reader
    So there!

  6. In 1947 Art Linkletter had a radio program based in Los Angeles. One feature was to have on new fathers. When my sister was born, dad dashed to the studio and was on the program. When Art learned that dad was a rocket scientist at JPL, the topic of moon travel came up. Dad predicted that man would make it to the moon by 1970. Not too bad a prediction !

  7. Shaking my head. I’ve received reviews with comments like “I don’t like books set in the past” (for a clearly marked historical book) and “I thought this was a romance, and it isn’t, so it’s your fault” (for a book that’s marketed as a mystery and doesn’t say “romance” anywhere on it.) It amazes me that people will give an author rotten reviews because *they* didn’t pay attention!

  8. Good morning!
    I have read all of your books and then listened to the on audiobooks. I love the way you give your characters personality, background story and express their insecurities etc…
    I am excited to when a new book comes out.
    Ali Reynolds, Joanna Brady and J.P. Beaumont come to life with the great narrators who read the audio books.
    Thank you for many hours of entertainment.
    Naomi

    • I agree. When listening to the audio version I develop a character in my mind as to how they look and sound. It brings them to life!

  9. Good grief Gertie. How can a book be good fiction if you don’t understand the characters?
    I’m a huge fan and love everything you write, including your blog.
    Keep on doing what you do so well. It’s wonderful that you have several series–they’re all great!

  10. Sometimes readers forget that authors–and other people on the opposite side of the internet junction–are real people with feelings. They think the buffer of cyberspace grants a license to barf their vitriol all over the place. This kind of behavior used to have a name: Rudeness.

    These people should be ignored. 😉

  11. As both a reader and a fan, I am always interested in the backstory of major characters and their families. If the backstory of a minor character has a bearing on his or her part of the story, I’m interested in that too. I enjoy your writings the way they are and would not have you change a thing. Thanks for being prolific. I love all your series.

  12. I think the key to understanding and enjoying your books is to read them in order and become totally involved with all the characters. That is what I do with all the authors and series that I read. Every time I pick a new author, I start from the beginning and read in order. BTW, I am a huge fan of all your books.

  13. I love your stories precisely for the fact that you put in all the personal facts. It makes it more realistic. I’ve read all your books and always look forward to a new book. Thank you for writing such wonderful books. Hava

  14. Reading about the lives of your characters is part of what makes your books such ‘must reads’. Please continue writing your interesting stories. I look forward to each new one.

  15. The backstories are what make your characters real to me. Love every book!
    Signed, a Fan who Reads 😉

  16. Very well put. I do love your books…read most of them and go to your book signings whenever possible.

  17. If these readers are reading “true crime” books, it is very important to read it as a case study of why people are behaving towards others, and your genetics, environment, extended family and community. Teaching school, I found getting to know that student’s interests and family was important to the education. My take on this is that the readers want attention and they seek it in a negative way. It reflects their inability to take life as it is, and live in a place, where they believe that they have to control everything. Sad people.
    Hope they keep on reading. What do they say to romance writers?

  18. I love the background information of your characters. I am a sucker for book series as I get involved in the main characters life and want to know more. I want to know what/who influenced them and I want to know what happens after that book ends. I recently re-read the Walker Family series and am checking my DT books and Kindle to see what books I am missing for Joanna Brady, Ali Reynolds and JP Beaumont and I will be starting another series reading session of one of them soon. It is like visiting old friends and catching up again remembering their past and finding our what is new in their life.

  19. Total agreement here with all those people who said keep on writing the way you do. You are so loved–not just as an author but as a person–by so many thousands, because who YOU are is indicated by the characters you’ve created, IN their situations and their family backgrounds, without which they couldn’t be fully developed as characters. Your blogs do the same thing–let us get to know YOU. Thank you for your books AND your blogs.

  20. Good grief! Some people are so rude. Any comment to a writer should be constructive and polite. As for me, I lost most of the sight in one eye and didn’t read for months as I have myself a pity party. One day I picked up an old Readers Digest and read a story by the late Mary Higgins Clark. Went to the library and checked out her novels. Asked the librarian if their were other good writers she could recommend. She asked if I had read you, so I read one and was immediately hooked. That was a decade ago, long enough for me to forget what I read so I can read them again! Thank you!!

    • Virginia, I have found one advantage in growing old is that I have forgotten what happened in the earlier Beau books and read them again. Usually I find something I missed the first time. Beau doesn’t look for trouble. It just seems to find him.

  21. I absolutely love all your books and follow every character! They have become my friends over the years. We have lived in Olympia, WA, Tucson, Phoenix and Prescott so can relate to locations. Don’t ever stop writing!

  22. I have read all of your books. I like reading the the family backgrounds. You do an excellent job of creating your characters. I can’t imagine how you keep your people’s personalities straight … but you do. As a reader you come to know how different characters will react to a given situations. Example: If Beau and Mel are going out for an evening of fun, they probably won’t go dancing or they won’t likely be hanging out at a tavern.
    When you start a book, do you have the story mapped out in your mind how it will end. Do you know who is going to die? Do you sometimes make changes along the way?
    Whatever you do, you do it right. Keep on writing.

  23. Some people…just keep writing the way you do – it’s real life and situations like the ones you describe in your books happen to all of us – fans and readers – and I am both!

  24. Then they are truly missing what your books are all about—characters who LIVE and grow and change through life. That is the part I love—feeling like these characters are friends that I love to keep up
    With. I actually tell my husband all about Beau as though i know him and want to be “part” of what is happening with him!

  25. Thanks again For you thoughts, random they may be, but always thoughtful, and thought provoking. Now my computer is offering words to put in my sentences. Al Gore imithitly inspired I guess. BUT at Least I can still over ride their insertion. Still Me Late Rising Today …Chuck In Tacoma. P.S. (from letter writing days) I know there are More than 43235 fans of your Blog Because I have been responsible for at least 7 more readers, including my sister in Bisby 9 years younger than me.. younger sister in Tennesse 10 1/2 years younger than me .. ALGORITHIUM added older than me. I have to watch closely thoughts being supplanted in my TYPING HA.. And many aquaints…Chuck in Tacoma. Still working on your 65+ books Maholo and Aloha to you and yours.

  26. All your books make me feel deeply, I would not have it any other way. I have a history with all your characters and seeing them grow and change with what life throws at them makes you a wonderful writer. A long time reader and fan, stay safe and healthy.

  27. I have just finished re-reading “Name Withheld” because that is the book where Beau’s first wife, Karen, died of cancer. I like the way you wrote about it. Beau will never forget her.

    I wouldn’t worry about the person who wrote you that message that has run on sentences with no punctuation. I doubt if she can even read. 🙂

  28. I get a lot of entertainment out of crazy missing the point reviews (in-between J.A. Jance books, you know) so thank you for some excellent examples to add to my collection. I particularly enjoy product reviews where the reviewer clearly states that they mis-used the product, or used it in an unintended way, and then give it a terrible rating. Recently I read one panning a counter top appliance waffle iron that the reviewer had placed in a hot oven “to keep the waffles hot” – of course the plastic parts of the appliance melted all over the inside of the oven, ruining the appliance and potentially damaging the oven. No word on whether the waffles remained hot.

    ceci

  29. “I don’t see my characters as super-heroes. They are ordinary people living ordinary lives. That includes those very important three Ls—Living, Loving, and Losing. I want my readers to care about the good guys and understand the bad guys.”

    This is exactly why I find your books compelling reads. Sure, I read shoot-’em-up thrillers but I’m never invested in the characters because they have no connection to my own life. Your characters say and do things that resonate in my life and I feel I know them as friends.

    The thrillers are fun but fleeting while your books endure. Thank you for writing them.

  30. I”m not sure when I read my first book. It definitely was somewhere in the JP series. I quickly realized that I had to start from #1 in order to get the character background, not only of JP but others as well. To me, not appreciating all of the background information and progression of the characters is like looking at a coloring book without any coloring.

  31. Hmmmm, your reader’s reason for.not.liking your books are some of the reasons that I do like them. When I get involved with a series, I get invested in the characters lives. I wonder what happens to them next. I care if they live or die. I like to.know.what is going on in their lives. There are series that I have quit because the characters are too static. Their lives are the same in every book. Obviously a lot of people don’t feel the same. The author that I am thinking of has written another 10 or so books in that series since I quit it. On the other hand, I can think of a series that I kept reading after the plots got boring because I wanted to know what was happening in the characters lives. In that case the author was running out of was to kill people off at dog shows. Fortunately, in the Jance books both the stories and the characters are.still very interesting. And I want to apologize if there are any misplaced periods. I seem to hit the period instead of the space bar on my tablet sometimes.

    • Misplaced periods are a result of modern technology. While texting you hit space twice to get a period. I have to watch what I write in an email so it isn’t full of double periods.

  32. You can’t please everyone, but you please your fans. Keep writing just the way you have been. We, your fans love the characters and their lives.

  33. All about the characters is what I love about your books, I feel like they are my family and best friends.

  34. There is such a varieety of books out there, if you don’t like one read another. I really liked the JP Beaumont books, but got mr yhr Joanna Brady were a whole differed level of favorites. I like to know about a character’s family. But understand that some people don’t Don’t complain, move a little farther down the shelf.

  35. Great column.
    I love your writing.
    It has always connected with me.
    Your characters have depth and the history of each is appreciated.
    Lord bless you.
    Thanks for writing!!!
    You bless me!
    Clay

  36. In addition to your series of books, I also follow several others. Longmire by Craig Johnson, Kevin Kearney by Michael McGarrity, Carl Hiaason, Several series by WEB Griffon, several series by John Sandford. They all have things in common with Me and You. We’re of an age, The Poison Pen, Characters who age, etc. I see a lot of similarities between John Sandford’s Lucas Davenport and his daughter Letty and Joanna Brady and her daughter Jenny. Letty’s character development over several books has ultimately culminated in a job with the federal government in Washington D.C. and a new series. I am waiting with baited breath to see what happens to Jenny when she graduates from NAU.

  37. I am on your side. I love knowing the characters and feeling like that are friends that I like to keep up with

  38. Actually, the back story on your character’s lives is a key reason I read your books, (all 70 so far). Another pleasurable thing I find is when I recognize, or think I recognize, something really personal to your own life in your books. Thank you.

  39. Alas, being a best -selling author makes you a perfect target for those who are having a bad day, or a bad life, and need to lash out at someone-
    Of course, what she finds “Boring” is what the rest of us love- The ever-evolving
    characters who meet their soul mates as they work to solve crimes in ever-changing and fascinating circumstances- We all want to see justice for the villains- But we also want to know about Joanna’s pregnancy, and Jenny’s college adventures-
    When a beloved character dies, we all want to mourn along with the families in the series- Few authors really show that side of the picture: That there will be grief and mourning at times, just as there is in life outside of the novels-
    When Joanna or Beau or Ali makes a mistake and owns up to it, they show their humanity and their humility, traits that are often omitted from crime fiction that
    presents the good guys as infallible- That humanity is what makes all the characters our friends-It makes us interested in what will happen in their lives in the next book in the series-

    • I must add that Edie and Bob Larson, Ali’s parents, are among my very favorite characters- Edie’s sense of humor is just wonderful! I find myself laughing out loud
      at some of the things she says, and I share them with my friends and my husband who also laugh out loud- (My husband is also my friend)
      Bob is someone with such a good heart, perhaps too good at times, but that’s just lovable-

  40. The family background is definitely part of the whole story. No complaints here. Love every word you write!

  41. There is always someone who will complain about something but your books make me happy and I look forward to every one of them and I like detail so keep explaining the family ties because it makes us identify with the characters and make them real. That is what I enjoy about your books. Keep writing because I look forward to another book. Thanks.

  42. The background that you provide for your characters is exactly what makes me love your books. we both know that different things interest different people. In my opinion keep up the good work!

  43. There is always someone who will complain about something but your books make me happy and I look forward to every one of them and I like detail so keep explaining the family ties because it makes us identify with the characters and make them real. That is what I enjoy about your books. Keep writing because I look forward to another book. Thanks.

  44. Just so you know, it is the character building and personal texture that I read your stories for! The plot is important too, but the people come first. Please do not be influenced by these idiots.

  45. Wow!!! So many unsolved mysteries in most peoples’ lives no doubt built my love of mystery, from my earliest Nancy Drew, through my adult, now 85-year old reads. IF ONLY, all the unknowns made sense…that’s all I hope for: the bits and pieces revealed as I went through my Dad’s papers at the time of his death, as his administrator, and now, with the Ancestry.com revelation that the man I thought was my birth father, who’s name is on my birth certificate, is not my biological father. Really, with the details revealed, or not, I have had a blessed life…and SO MUCH of my childhood now makes sense. So, please continue telling the whole story of people in your writings…so nice, when the answers make sense. But, even when there are unknowns out there…It is all O.K.

  46. Now I’m confused. I just finished rereading Second Watch–am currently rereading all the Beaumont books–and think it is my favorite Beaumont book. But, Ali isn’t in any part of it. It’s about Lennie and Monica

  47. Their loss! I’ve always loved your books and the rich stories you weave. I was raised in Seattle and I’m right there with JP as he crosses the floating bridge or at Fisherman’s Terminal. I also love learning the places you describe with Ali Reynolds and Joanna Brady. All very entertaining (can’t put them down!) and takes you right there to the dusty roads of Arizona! Thank you for all your books!

  48. Wow! I care about what you share in the blogs and in the books. I have never experienced a series of books that leave me more touched. It is because the characters use a bra to throw rocks, who don’t give up and juggle everything from dogs, to horses, to in-laws, outlaws, teenage stages, drama, etc. (Joanna), all the bruises outside and in of Beau, everything with Ali resonates in why she was no longer a TV journalist; the characters have to re-make themselves in work, love, purpose just like us chickens. I am super grateful! So go for it just as you keep doing. your books are an anchor in a fast changing world lately. lately they are my concussion therapy.

  49. I love your books, details, conversations that explain backstories, and all. Please feel free to correct my comments at will.

    Hope this finds the dogs, hubby, and you all doing well.

  50. When I first started reading your books, what drew me to them was the background story. I felt like I could explore the Seattle area without ever having to leave home. Isn’t that what we all want when we read a good book? Love all of your series but J.P. will always be my favorite.

  51. OMG! If this is a sample of the weird comments you get, I will be picturing you sitting and scratching your head. If anyone dislikes a book so much or doesn’t care who lives or dies, why in the world would they take the time to write to the author??? I love all of your stories and the details that make up each character. I was quite clear headed when I awoke this morning, but now I am thoroughly confused.

  52. I have read and liked most all of what you have written, but especially identify with JPBeaumont as he gets stuck in traffic on the floating bridge
    I live in Renton and have spent the past 25 winters in Arizona. After a few back surgeries we no longer can endure traveling
    Keep on writing. Always look forward to your next book
    Marilyn R

  53. Such a polite author you are! I love ALL your books and yes, I think it is important to every story (book) that the characters are “real” people with real lives, real backgrounds/pasts, real families, real feelings and thoughts and ….and…. and !

    If a person (me) finds a passage particularly lengthy, I might lightly skim over that section but if it is important to the storyline, I’ll go back to reread (fully) what I may have missed.

    I guess you can’t please all the people, all the time. And a great author like you should not have to do so.

    Waiting on more and more of your books to hit the shelves!

  54. Clearly both “readers” left an impact on you, but please let those thoughtless and rude comments go. You have millions of fans who DO enjoy everything about your stories. And I just turned my sister in law on to you; so now you have a million and one fans! Never stop writing!

  55. Sometimes, as you know, all one can do is scratch one’s head. I vaguely remember when you were in Wichita and you got a question from a woman (why does it always seem to be a woman) who asked a question that to me had an obvious answer and the question didn’t need to be asked. But then, who am I? Just a reader who loves Beau, tolerates Joanna, and appreciates Ali (wish I had had parents like Edie and Bob). Would like to get to know brother whose name escapes me right now!

  56. There are PLENTY others who DO care about background! Seeing characters family and friends and how they interact – even where they live and what their interests are is paramount to understanding the people and the plot. Sorry but Duh!

  57. I love reading about the characters and their families and history. They become like family and I find myself thinking of them like family. That must be part of why I make sure I read all of your books…. don’t want to miss out on the lives, loves, milestones (Jenny is in COLLEGE now?)..
    You have a wonderful way of weaving the action/ happenings/ bad guy stuff with personalities.
    Makes your books special. Who needs those “dislikers” anyhow??

  58. I am a fan that loves your writing. Not liking something in the story is normal. I love my adult child more than anything. I might not like something that child does or says but I still love them. I may not like something your character does but I love the story. If every thing went my way I might be happier but the rest of the world would not. Like most readers I follow many authors. Some of those authors news letters get skimmed but there are only 5 or 6 that I read every word. You are in that group because you are a story teller. Thank you for all the hours of pleasure you have provided me.

  59. I have enjoyed getting to know J P Beaumont, Ali Reynolds and Joanna Brady thru your books for many years and don’t quite get someone not enjoying getting to know the characters.
    Your books have provided great enjoyment to my life!

  60. Hmmmmmm. In my opinion the main plot of a story is only made richer by the backstory of all the characters. I’m sure if these readers look in the young reader section of their library (maybe ages 5-8) they could find books more to their liking 😉

  61. What I like in the Beau books is the way his continuing problem with alcohol is handled. He stopped drinking on doctor’s orders, went to a rehab facility (Book #8 “Minor in Possession”), has joined AA and tries to get to meetings, but not as often as he might. When things get tense he thinks about a drink, but doesn’t give in. He has a cup of coffee instead.

    I think he is a good example for people with the problem. Alcohol can be given up.

  62. As I finish your blog,I am laughing hard and clapping at your response to those “readers”. I hope all “fans” are too.??. I have read all your books not because of genre but because you or one of the best story teller. That is what fictions are supposed to be, telling stories. DO NOT CHANGE.

  63. If you can’t get involved in the people and their lives, what is the point of reading the book? Knowing the back story is sometimes the best part. Keep it up, Judy, we are with you.

  64. I have never found any of your books as boring! I have read every book you have written & will gladly read anything else you write. I recomend your books to everyone I know.
    Thank you !!

  65. FYI…. I have read every book you have written…And at my age, with my memory (which lasts til the last page) I most likely will read them again. Please don’t let a couple “readers” opinion bother you. Keep writing the same way as you always have…I just wish you could write a new one every month..(just saying) Love you.

  66. God Bless you. Why do people feel the need to criticize? I love all of your characters. The backstory makes the story. Thank you for keeping me deep into the story.

  67. I have read all the books, more than once. They are the books I re-read because I like them. I even bought that book you recommended, “Officer down, code three”, because you recommended it. Please keep going!

  68. The one thing I have enjoyed about your books, J.A., is that we get to know these characters by how they were raised. We learn about their parents, grandparents, siblings etc. It gives your characters the humanity the need.

  69. My favorite mystery series are all ones where the main characters have a strong circle of family & friends; finding out what’s going on in their lives becomes as absorbing as solving the current mystery. Hence I love series by Steven Havill, Gail Bowen, Donna Andrews, J D Robb, and Deborah Crombie as well as yours.

  70. I have read every J.P. Beaumont and Joanna Brady book and look forward to more. I have to admit to remembering the story lines involving how these characters’ lives have progressed, not the crime in each book. I love that you include storylines about their lives.

  71. About the fussy “fans”. It takes all kinds to make the world.
    You’ve got plenty of other fans, including my wife and I.
    Keep it going. You’re doing a great job.
    We check the book display weekly when shopping at Costco. If there’s a new one from you we buy it right away.
    Leif Luglan, Prosser, WA

  72. Regarding this week’s blog, my mother always told me if I didn’t have anything nice to say that I should keep quiet! I love your books. It always feels like I’m sitting down with a friend to hear what’s happening! Life is an adventure. Let there be hills, valleys and good books! Thank you for being such a prolific writer as well! Keep doing those steps?

  73. Would never miss any of your books It’s like a ongoing saga for each one of the series. I met you 2x in person and was very impressed how you told how the different characters evolved from different things you experienced. It was strange because so much of it dovetails experiences of my own. The background is what makes your books so readable. I read a lot of books,a lot of authors and you are my #1 favorite. I wait for every new book and read them right away. Keep up the great work

  74. The critics are probably not good writers themselves. It is so easy to criticize someone who has talent we don’t possess. I love all your books. Keep them coming.

  75. I am a reader of all Bo, Joana and Ali books. I appreciate the option of being able to email you. I come to your book events in Oregon, I miss seeing you. I get invested in your characters and feel like they are family. Just wanted to say thanks.

  76. Wow. The reader who only cares who lives or dies in her reading material must have a very limited library of very poorly written stories. One of the reasons I love your books is because they all have a story line that includes loving, living, family connections and the excitment of crime solving. Keep up the great writing!! By the way it was my turn to pick this months book and I picked MISSING AND ENDANGERED. I’ve already read it and I’m reading it again to refresh my memory and be able to discuss with my fellow book club members.

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