Cain, Chelsea

Kick is a gutsy kick-ass heroine doing her best to build a life for herself, while understandably haunted by her tragic past. She makes plenty of mistakes and isn't always likable, which makes her come across as very real. This book is nearly as dark as Cain's other titles, although not quite as graphic. Fans of psychological suspense and flawed characters will enjoy getting to know Kick. [See Prepub Alert, 2/10/14.]

Fans of Cain's series will be sucked in once again. Gretchen is at her worst while somehow also being her most, dare this reviewer say it, loving. Archie is still infuriatingly attached and conflicted, while the romantic tension between him and Susan is palpable. Cain has an incredible talent for draping clues between books that makes the reader wonder if she's been plotting every single move since the first sentence of the series. Her writing is goose bump-inducing, slyly witty, and bloody sexy. One of the most satisfying thriller series today. [See Prepub Alert, 2/11/13; library marketing.]

Series fans will enjoy this latest book as they learn more about Gretchen. While still cagey and dangerous, Gretchen's persona deepens as Cain reveals details about her early life and relationships. Archie, still damaged by her influence, shows glimmers of hope that he may be able to move on to a new life where he has the power. A sure bet for vacation reads.

Perfect for readers who want to mix true crime history with their contemporary serial killers, as in Lisa Black's Trail of Blood or Michael Harvey's The Third Rail. The pace is as relentless as the floodwaters engulfing Portland. Buy heavily and enjoy recommending this to new Cain fans. [150,000-copy first printing; library marketing.]