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Max Revere #1
Notorious
12 hours, 50 minutesMaxine Revere has dedicated her life to investigating murders that the police have long since given up any hope of solving. A nationally renowned investigative reporter with her own TV show and a tough-as-nails reputation, Max tackles cold cases from across the country and every walk of life. But the one unsolved murder that still haunts her is a case from her own past.When Max was a high school senior, one of her best friends was strangled and another, Kevin O'Neal, accused of the crime. To the disgrace of her wealthy family, Max stood by her friend, until she found out he lied about his alibi. Though his guilt was never proven, their relationship crumbled from the strain of too many secrets.Now Max is home for Kevin's funeral―after years of drug abuse, he committed suicide. She's finally prepared to come to terms with the loss of his friendship, but she's not prepared for Kevin's sister to stubbornly insist that he didn't kill himself. Or for an elderly couple to accost her at the airport, begging her to look into another murder at Max's old high school. Max is more interested in the cold case at her alma mater than in digging around Kevin's troubled life, but she agrees to do both. As Max uncovers dark secrets, she finds herself caught in a complicated web of lies that hit far too close to home. And it's becoming increasingly clear that someone will do whatever it takes to make sure the truth stays buried.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published March 25, 2014
717 people are currently reading
6320 people want to read
About the author
Allison Brennan
112 books5,254 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 630 reviews
August 15, 2021
Investigative reporter and cable show host Maxine (Max) Revere returns home to Atherton, California for the first time in years. The occasion is the funeral of her estranged friend Kevin O’Neal who committed suicide. They were close friends through high school until a tragedy divided them. At the airport, an elderly couple approaches her and asks if she would look into the murder of their grandson who died on the campus of her high school alma mater, Atherton Prep. She agrees to do so solely because of where he was killed. When she meets with Kevin’s sister, she also asks her to look into his suicide. As Max explores both, she’s drawn back into the mystery of who killed her best friend, Lindy Ames, in their senior year of high school, which deepens the wedge between her and her family.
If it appears as if there’s a lot going on here you’re absolutely correct. While Max had every intention of only attending the funeral and immediately returning to New York, her investigation of Jason Hoffman’s murder led down paths that put her squarely into those of family and acquaintances. Her probing of Kevin’s suicide just reopened old wounds that needed to be re-examined. It was tough at times keeping track of three cases but I kept up. They were each interesting in their own right so I was highly engaged. I figured out the resolution to one of them really early on so I spent most of the book trying to disprove my theory, which had the effect of me being even more immersed in the story.
I’m glad the subject of this story took us back to Max’s home town and dealt with the murder that separated her and her family. It gave insight into what drives her and the reason for the family rifts. She’s a complicated woman who was raised by an equally complex grandmother. I went back and forth in forming an opinion of her. Max has lots of flaws but has more admirable qualities. I like her fearlessness and independence though she can be rather ruthless in her delivery. I enjoyed all of the mysteries and thought there were sufficient clues to solve each case. I got some parts of it right but completely missed on one of them. It was also my first experience with the narrator and felt like she gave strong voice to Max, capturing the essence of her personality. I hope she continues the rest of the series, which I definitely plan to continue.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
If it appears as if there’s a lot going on here you’re absolutely correct. While Max had every intention of only attending the funeral and immediately returning to New York, her investigation of Jason Hoffman’s murder led down paths that put her squarely into those of family and acquaintances. Her probing of Kevin’s suicide just reopened old wounds that needed to be re-examined. It was tough at times keeping track of three cases but I kept up. They were each interesting in their own right so I was highly engaged. I figured out the resolution to one of them really early on so I spent most of the book trying to disprove my theory, which had the effect of me being even more immersed in the story.
I’m glad the subject of this story took us back to Max’s home town and dealt with the murder that separated her and her family. It gave insight into what drives her and the reason for the family rifts. She’s a complicated woman who was raised by an equally complex grandmother. I went back and forth in forming an opinion of her. Max has lots of flaws but has more admirable qualities. I like her fearlessness and independence though she can be rather ruthless in her delivery. I enjoyed all of the mysteries and thought there were sufficient clues to solve each case. I got some parts of it right but completely missed on one of them. It was also my first experience with the narrator and felt like she gave strong voice to Max, capturing the essence of her personality. I hope she continues the rest of the series, which I definitely plan to continue.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 26, 2014
This book it's so infuriating it made me crazy! First of, it was so sloooooow. I can appreciate details, but when the writer goes on and on with such inconsequential details such as how many glasses of wine a character orders, and drag on conversations just because of word count. It just leaves me rolling my eyes and wanting to strangle someone. Then we have the main character Max. I read so many reviews calling her a strong female character, but to me she just seemed like a meddling, spoiled and selfish bitch. Everything she did in this book was self serving for her own egotistical satisfaction. She did not read honest to me at all. I hated her, and I do realize hate is a strong word. I kept thinking "this bitch would be less damaging if she were just a paparazzi" rather than mess with police investigations and people's feelings. Which she did not respect in the least. Just a meddling reporter. I didn't see how is she different than any other meddling reporter. I guess maybe the fact that she comes from a wealthy family. But that does not make her a hero. I also dislike her self righteousness. The author tried to humanize her with the fact (a fact that was mentioned repeatedly) that her mother abandoned her and she didn't know who her father was. That didn't humanize her to me. In fact she went to the best schools and got millions in inheritance because of it. Not something to feel sorry about in my book. I will ABSOLUTELY NOT follow this serie. It was hard enough to finish this book.
April 10, 2024
The story starts in the past with a murder. Fast forward to the present – 10 years later. And the one who was accused of her murder, but never convicted, is now dead from apparent suicide.
What is going on here?
Max Revere is a nationally renowned investigative reporter, well-known because she has her own successful crime TV show. Her friend 10 years ago, was the one who was murdered, and it was her best friend who was accused. But she stood by him, and now his sister is asking her to come to his funeral. The sister doesn’t believe he has committed suicide and wants Max to investigate what really happened to him, especially since he was still looking into their friend’s death from 10 years ago.
Also, while Max has arrived back home, she is asked by an elderly couple to investigate the death of their grandson who went to the same Atherton Prep School, who was murdered just 5 months earlier, and whose death is heading towards becoming a cold case.
Can Max finally find closure for the death of her friend from the past? Did her troubled friend really commit suicide? And, who killed this couple’s grandson?
And, are any of these deaths related?
So, who did it and why? And as readers, we wonder along with Max as she investigates. We think we know, and we are sure we know. But…the more she unravels, the more uncertain we become, because that is the cleverness of Brennan’s writing…she knows just how to throw a curve and a twist and keep us wondering…could it be…that one? Or is it really this?
An excellent twisty mystery with a hint of romance, that will keep readers going right up to the last page.
What is going on here?
Max Revere is a nationally renowned investigative reporter, well-known because she has her own successful crime TV show. Her friend 10 years ago, was the one who was murdered, and it was her best friend who was accused. But she stood by him, and now his sister is asking her to come to his funeral. The sister doesn’t believe he has committed suicide and wants Max to investigate what really happened to him, especially since he was still looking into their friend’s death from 10 years ago.
Also, while Max has arrived back home, she is asked by an elderly couple to investigate the death of their grandson who went to the same Atherton Prep School, who was murdered just 5 months earlier, and whose death is heading towards becoming a cold case.
Can Max finally find closure for the death of her friend from the past? Did her troubled friend really commit suicide? And, who killed this couple’s grandson?
And, are any of these deaths related?
So, who did it and why? And as readers, we wonder along with Max as she investigates. We think we know, and we are sure we know. But…the more she unravels, the more uncertain we become, because that is the cleverness of Brennan’s writing…she knows just how to throw a curve and a twist and keep us wondering…could it be…that one? Or is it really this?
An excellent twisty mystery with a hint of romance, that will keep readers going right up to the last page.
April 24, 2014
Maxine “Max” Revere might have what one could call a strong personality. She knows what she wants, and she’s not afraid to go after it, diving right into the swimming pool. Whether it’s men, or a friend, or a story, or a dead body, she’s not afraid to mess up her manicure. Her strong will could bowl over even the hardest of hearts, and she has one devilish smile to even out the fair trade. And she knows how to dress for all occasions, even if it means she might get a little blood on her clothes.
She may have a weakness for cops, or one might call it an obsession, and she’s rather adept with a pair of handcuffs. While I appreciated her sticky situation, I had trouble with my focus at various points along the way. Max, while intriguing, managed to keep me at a distance throughout much of the story, even while her NOTORIOUS circumstances managed to hold me in suspense and despair.
The cold case concept intrigued me, and her beguiling smile deceived me, and her off-putting attitude caused her a whirlwind of trouble wherever she went, even if she kept her head in the game, and her eyes on the horizon. Making friends might not have been at the top of her list, but she commanded attention and a second glance wherever she managed to turn up next.
Other than Nick Santini, many of the males felt like caricatures, instead of full-bodied versions ready to spring off the page and into my living room. Had the men measured up to the women, it might have provided a bit more balance to the equation, and made it a bit easier to swallow for this particular reader. Not bad writing, or a bad story, mind you, but not a tale that showcases Allison Brennan at her story writing best.
I received this book for free through NetGalley.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
She may have a weakness for cops, or one might call it an obsession, and she’s rather adept with a pair of handcuffs. While I appreciated her sticky situation, I had trouble with my focus at various points along the way. Max, while intriguing, managed to keep me at a distance throughout much of the story, even while her NOTORIOUS circumstances managed to hold me in suspense and despair.
The cold case concept intrigued me, and her beguiling smile deceived me, and her off-putting attitude caused her a whirlwind of trouble wherever she went, even if she kept her head in the game, and her eyes on the horizon. Making friends might not have been at the top of her list, but she commanded attention and a second glance wherever she managed to turn up next.
Other than Nick Santini, many of the males felt like caricatures, instead of full-bodied versions ready to spring off the page and into my living room. Had the men measured up to the women, it might have provided a bit more balance to the equation, and made it a bit easier to swallow for this particular reader. Not bad writing, or a bad story, mind you, but not a tale that showcases Allison Brennan at her story writing best.
I received this book for free through NetGalley.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
September 20, 2014
Notorious Allison Brennan's new suspense introduces Maxine Revere, a high-powered and intrepid investigative reporter and host of her own nationally acclaimed reality TV show that investigates cold cases.
Whilst the plot, involving the mystery of three unsolved murders that might or might not be connected, it’s the character of Max that really drives the story.
Maxine is a very complex and interesting female lead character. Known to be tough, relentless, determined, she’s also independently wealthy, career-orientated and risk taker and is not afraid to using manipulation methods to get what she wants t gets what she wants.
Max returns to her hometown after a long stay-way to attend a friend’s funeral, whose suicide might be connected to the 13 year old unsolved murder of her best friend.
There seems to be a connection between those two deaths and the death of a construction worker and so she starts her own investigation as the police force don’t seem to be doing enough. Nothing will stop her from finding the truth…she’s RELENTLESS,
even when her life is in danger….she will not give up!!!
A very fast paced plot, with interesting secondary characters, twists and turns and a total surprise when the murderer is finally revealed.
A great start to a new series and I am looking forward to the next installment.
Whilst the plot, involving the mystery of three unsolved murders that might or might not be connected, it’s the character of Max that really drives the story.
Maxine is a very complex and interesting female lead character. Known to be tough, relentless, determined, she’s also independently wealthy, career-orientated and risk taker and is not afraid to using manipulation methods to get what she wants t gets what she wants.
But the badass reputation hides another side of her that very few people get to see. She’s afraid of commitments and does not allow anyone to get close to her, affected by her mother’s disappearance and her very dysfunctional family. I connected with her from the start.
Max returns to her hometown after a long stay-way to attend a friend’s funeral, whose suicide might be connected to the 13 year old unsolved murder of her best friend.
There seems to be a connection between those two deaths and the death of a construction worker and so she starts her own investigation as the police force don’t seem to be doing enough. Nothing will stop her from finding the truth…she’s RELENTLESS,
even when her life is in danger….she will not give up!!!A very fast paced plot, with interesting secondary characters, twists and turns and a total surprise when the murderer is finally revealed.
A great start to a new series and I am looking forward to the next installment.
July 25, 2015
1.5 stars
I was just not feeling this book. Lackluster, I would call it. Maybe it's because I have been reading some well-written books lately or because I haven't been reading much of this genre, but I found the writing very basic, cliched, repetitious, and formulaic. The book was really slow moving to me, which I understand is reality at times for an investigative reporter researching stories, but the author just didn't give me anything that I found interesting- not as far as plot, characters, descriptions, tone, themes, etc. The plot just kinda spun it's wheels a lot of the time. The ending wasn't bad, but nowhere near good enough to make up for the rest. I also thought the prologue gave too much away right off the bat about the main crime. Some of what should have been revealed as Max discovered it we already knew, and I would have preferred knowing less till the end.
Then the main character. I found her cold and one-dimensional for the most part. As one of my favorite reviewers (Emily May) said in a recent vlog (not about this book), she was more of a caricature than a character- a gung-ho investigative reporter who doesn't want to get close to anyone.
She REALLY has a thing about lying, about which she comes across as too black and white and uncompromising for me. Just hating everyone who lies for any reason and never lying yourself seems unsustainable. Which it turns out to be because she turns into a hypocrite, breaking into someone's apartment and then essentially lying about it and other things several times (as well as instances of lying by omission, lying with the truth, deflections, etc.)
There was a minor romance element to the book, which made me feel absolutely NOTHING. I didn't dislike the love interest, but I didn't like him either. I can't tell you really anything about him after reading the book- his likes/dislikes, traits, habits, mannerisms- I don't even remember what he was supposed to look like. He was just central casting of white, American, good guy cop.
I was just not feeling this book. Lackluster, I would call it. Maybe it's because I have been reading some well-written books lately or because I haven't been reading much of this genre, but I found the writing very basic, cliched, repetitious, and formulaic. The book was really slow moving to me, which I understand is reality at times for an investigative reporter researching stories, but the author just didn't give me anything that I found interesting- not as far as plot, characters, descriptions, tone, themes, etc. The plot just kinda spun it's wheels a lot of the time. The ending wasn't bad, but nowhere near good enough to make up for the rest. I also thought the prologue gave too much away right off the bat about the main crime. Some of what should have been revealed as Max discovered it we already knew, and I would have preferred knowing less till the end.
Then the main character. I found her cold and one-dimensional for the most part. As one of my favorite reviewers (Emily May) said in a recent vlog (not about this book), she was more of a caricature than a character- a gung-ho investigative reporter who doesn't want to get close to anyone.
She REALLY has a thing about lying, about which she comes across as too black and white and uncompromising for me. Just hating everyone who lies for any reason and never lying yourself seems unsustainable. Which it turns out to be because she turns into a hypocrite, breaking into someone's apartment and then essentially lying about it and other things several times (as well as instances of lying by omission, lying with the truth, deflections, etc.)
There was a minor romance element to the book, which made me feel absolutely NOTHING. I didn't dislike the love interest, but I didn't like him either. I can't tell you really anything about him after reading the book- his likes/dislikes, traits, habits, mannerisms- I don't even remember what he was supposed to look like. He was just central casting of white, American, good guy cop.
August 21, 2021
Investigative Reporter Maxine Revere returns to her hometown to attend the funeral of a former friend. Back in high school, Kevin was a close friend to Max when he was accused of killing her best friend. Max defended him against everyone else, even her family. Now Kevin has committed suicide, but Max finds the people in this town are still upset with her. Many know of her investigative skills and believe that she has returned to try to clear Kevin's name. As Max sees how many people have jumped to this conclusion, she feels that there must be information that she can find on this unsolved case.
As Max begins delving into the murder of her best friend Lindy, she is approached by an elderly couple who ask her to look into the murder of their grandson, Jason Hoffman. Jason was shot to death six months ago. No one was ever arrested.
Max has her plate full with these two investigations. There are lots and lots of characters in this book. I had to start a list to keep track of everyone. There were many of twists and turns in this one which made the book hard to put down. We also learned a lot about Max's past and what drives her to investigate these cases. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
As Max begins delving into the murder of her best friend Lindy, she is approached by an elderly couple who ask her to look into the murder of their grandson, Jason Hoffman. Jason was shot to death six months ago. No one was ever arrested.
Max has her plate full with these two investigations. There are lots and lots of characters in this book. I had to start a list to keep track of everyone. There were many of twists and turns in this one which made the book hard to put down. We also learned a lot about Max's past and what drives her to investigate these cases. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
June 17, 2018
I'm a huge fan of Allison Brennan's Lucy Kincaid series, so I decided to give this series a try. I have to say at first I didn't find Maxine Revere very likable, but as the book progressed she really grew on me.
The reason I didn't give this book four stars is that there was just a ton of information thrown at the reader. I realize, this being the first in the series, characters need to be established. But Max herself has quite a history that I'm sure will play out in future books. Coupled with the fact that there are actually two separate cases being investigated in this book, I sometimes felt brain-numbed by trying to wade through all of the characters, past history, current events, etc. This much information can sometimes lead to boring passages, even if they are necessary to the plot playing out.
I felt the second half of the book moved more quickly -- probably because of being over the hump of setting up background and history -- and was more engrossing. There was a really ridiculous action sequence towards the end that I just found hard to swallow, but other than that, I liked the way the plots were wrapped up in the end.
Bottom line: I liked Max well enough to continue with this series and see what other trouble she can get herself into.
The reason I didn't give this book four stars is that there was just a ton of information thrown at the reader. I realize, this being the first in the series, characters need to be established. But Max herself has quite a history that I'm sure will play out in future books. Coupled with the fact that there are actually two separate cases being investigated in this book, I sometimes felt brain-numbed by trying to wade through all of the characters, past history, current events, etc. This much information can sometimes lead to boring passages, even if they are necessary to the plot playing out.
I felt the second half of the book moved more quickly -- probably because of being over the hump of setting up background and history -- and was more engrossing. There was a really ridiculous action sequence towards the end that I just found hard to swallow, but other than that, I liked the way the plots were wrapped up in the end.
Bottom line: I liked Max well enough to continue with this series and see what other trouble she can get herself into.
January 5, 2025
2.5⭐️ this was okay….it took me so long to finish because I just wasn’t connecting with the characters. I think it was more of a me problem than a book problem though. This was a twisty crime fiction following an investigative reporter who returns to her hometown for a friend’s funeral just to be warped back in time to solve the case of another friend from high school who was murdered years ago.
This had everything I usually would love in a thriller/ crime book but I just found myself not enjoying the characters and connecting with them as much as I would have liked to. This was the first book in the series and I do plan on reading the second book to give it another chance.
This had everything I usually would love in a thriller/ crime book but I just found myself not enjoying the characters and connecting with them as much as I would have liked to. This was the first book in the series and I do plan on reading the second book to give it another chance.
July 23, 2016
Original review found at
3.5 stars
Ireceived this ARC novel as part of a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is March 25th 2014.
I enjoyed this read. It had the perfect amount of mystery and suspense with the main character drawn in to the task of trying to solve two cold case murders. Mix in a handful of potential suspects and family drama and you have the ideal framework for a good "who dunnit". The writing was well done and the story was paced just write.
I really enjoyed the supporting character of David and Santini. I found David's devotion to Max in assisting with her career and ensuring her security was admirable in spite of the fact that I felt Max did not offer him the same respect. Santini as the local cop was just dreamy in my opinion. Although there was no major love story attached (more a mutual attraction) I loved his even temperament and his personality. I looked forward to scenes in which he was a part of.
The part that I struggled with was the character of Max. She was obviously the main character and was written to be strong and independent. I found that she was too much so. She was too hard and jaded which made it difficult to identify with her. She held the truth to the highest degree sometimes writing people out of her life for a lie yet she committed lies of omission throughout the entire story. This made her very hypocritical and left a sour taste in my mouth as she held people to a higher standard than herself. I know she was written to be a strong character who stops at nothing to get answers however I felt her character was not balanced enough to make her believable. It is my understanding that this is the first book featuring the character of Max and I think that for future instalments that she needs to be fine tuned so that she is tough yet believable at the same time.
Although I struggled with Max this was still a good story. I enjoyed the time spent within the pages. I am just not sure if I will invest further time in Max' future stories. Then again it could be interesting to see how she evolves
3.5 stars
Ireceived this ARC novel as part of a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is March 25th 2014.
I enjoyed this read. It had the perfect amount of mystery and suspense with the main character drawn in to the task of trying to solve two cold case murders. Mix in a handful of potential suspects and family drama and you have the ideal framework for a good "who dunnit". The writing was well done and the story was paced just write.
I really enjoyed the supporting character of David and Santini. I found David's devotion to Max in assisting with her career and ensuring her security was admirable in spite of the fact that I felt Max did not offer him the same respect. Santini as the local cop was just dreamy in my opinion. Although there was no major love story attached (more a mutual attraction) I loved his even temperament and his personality. I looked forward to scenes in which he was a part of.
The part that I struggled with was the character of Max. She was obviously the main character and was written to be strong and independent. I found that she was too much so. She was too hard and jaded which made it difficult to identify with her. She held the truth to the highest degree sometimes writing people out of her life for a lie yet she committed lies of omission throughout the entire story. This made her very hypocritical and left a sour taste in my mouth as she held people to a higher standard than herself. I know she was written to be a strong character who stops at nothing to get answers however I felt her character was not balanced enough to make her believable. It is my understanding that this is the first book featuring the character of Max and I think that for future instalments that she needs to be fine tuned so that she is tough yet believable at the same time.
Although I struggled with Max this was still a good story. I enjoyed the time spent within the pages. I am just not sure if I will invest further time in Max' future stories. Then again it could be interesting to see how she evolves
February 24, 2019
This is a good murder mystery that spans over a decade. I thought I remembered who the killer was but I was wrong (probably thinking about a different book) and wow, who it turned out to be was done really well. I love a good mystery which keeps me guessing. Allison Brennan has a true talent and I am excited to read the next book (again) in the series.
The romance aspect is very minor here. We are introduced to our MCs, and the ending is very obvious as to what they are going to do after the fade to black, but it's NOT clear how things will work. They don't live in the same state, Max is a reporter and Nick is a cop who has a son and ex-wife (who is moving again which means Nick is going to move will them (again). I really liked the fact that the story centered around the mystery rather than Max and Nick. What I didn't particularly like was that Max was portrayed somewhat as a woman who was willing to sleep with any man she found attractive. Not that she did in this book, but we get her inner dialogue and she was thinking of sleeping with this one guy but then she didn't only because it was obvious he was looking for a wife and kids and picket fence. Max isn't so she said no. I'm all for women being portrayed as having an active and healthy sex life, able to embrace their woman power, or whatever. Buuuut, at the same time I wish she had been portrayed as someone having more respect for herself and not simply falling in to bed with a guy because he is good looking.
Moving on, the narration was really good. I haven't check so I hope this narrator sticks with the whole series and give it 5 stars. The story I give 4 stars and I do recommend this to people who like a strong woman who doesn't listen to the tough he-man cop about staying out of the way cuz she might hurt her little ol' self. :D
The romance aspect is very minor here. We are introduced to our MCs, and the ending is very obvious as to what they are going to do after the fade to black, but it's NOT clear how things will work. They don't live in the same state, Max is a reporter and Nick is a cop who has a son and ex-wife (who is moving again which means Nick is going to move will them (again). I really liked the fact that the story centered around the mystery rather than Max and Nick. What I didn't particularly like was that Max was portrayed somewhat as a woman who was willing to sleep with any man she found attractive. Not that she did in this book, but we get her inner dialogue and she was thinking of sleeping with this one guy but then she didn't only because it was obvious he was looking for a wife and kids and picket fence. Max isn't so she said no. I'm all for women being portrayed as having an active and healthy sex life, able to embrace their woman power, or whatever. Buuuut, at the same time I wish she had been portrayed as someone having more respect for herself and not simply falling in to bed with a guy because he is good looking.
Moving on, the narration was really good. I haven't check so I hope this narrator sticks with the whole series and give it 5 stars. The story I give 4 stars and I do recommend this to people who like a strong woman who doesn't listen to the tough he-man cop about staying out of the way cuz she might hurt her little ol' self. :D
April 18, 2022
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Mystery / Suspense
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Allison Brennan's Notorious is the first installment in the authors Max Revere series. Maxine (Max) Revere is a freelance investigative journalist who has her own True Crime Show. Max is inspired by the disappearance and presumed murder of her college roommate years ago during Spring break. She travels the country to investigate cases of missing persons or unsolved murders and shed light on them. In this episode, Max returns home to Atherton, California for the first time in years.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery / Suspense
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Allison Brennan's Notorious is the first installment in the authors Max Revere series. Maxine (Max) Revere is a freelance investigative journalist who has her own True Crime Show. Max is inspired by the disappearance and presumed murder of her college roommate years ago during Spring break. She travels the country to investigate cases of missing persons or unsolved murders and shed light on them. In this episode, Max returns home to Atherton, California for the first time in years.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
March 28, 2015
Just finished the 1st book in the Alison Brenan Max Revere series (book 1)
And all I can say is WOW What an ending!!!!
I seen this at Kroger and thought well this looks ok... There's nothing else good here today.. AM I HAPPY I PICKED IT UP!!!! I seen a few days later on Goodreads the Ads and thought ok it seems good
WOW just WOW....
What a understatement!!!! It's fantastic..
I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!!
This was a awesome start of a series because of countless reasons but ill tell a few so not to give the whole book away.....
It's a "Keep you on your toes" WOW WHAT THE HECK JUST HAPPENED!!! suspense story. S many twists and turns of "who dun it", what's gonna happen next, who is this woman!?!?!!
The main character Maxine Revere is a woman of privilege, but a hardcore investigative reporter! She's a TOTALY GET OUT OF MY WAY, No Bulshit, Hardcore Strong Woman! (I loved her from the start!!) this was not only about a family of wealthy people with very disturbing history and secrets... But a senseless murder!!!
I will be looking for book 2 in April!!!
(Not close enough!!!!)
And getting more books from her... She's got a bunch of books and series...
Can't wait to check more out from her!!!
An absolute terrific read!!!
And all I can say is WOW What an ending!!!!
I seen this at Kroger and thought well this looks ok... There's nothing else good here today.. AM I HAPPY I PICKED IT UP!!!! I seen a few days later on Goodreads the Ads and thought ok it seems good
WOW just WOW....
What a understatement!!!! It's fantastic..
I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!!
This was a awesome start of a series because of countless reasons but ill tell a few so not to give the whole book away.....
It's a "Keep you on your toes" WOW WHAT THE HECK JUST HAPPENED!!! suspense story. S many twists and turns of "who dun it", what's gonna happen next, who is this woman!?!?!!
The main character Maxine Revere is a woman of privilege, but a hardcore investigative reporter! She's a TOTALY GET OUT OF MY WAY, No Bulshit, Hardcore Strong Woman! (I loved her from the start!!) this was not only about a family of wealthy people with very disturbing history and secrets... But a senseless murder!!!
I will be looking for book 2 in April!!!
(Not close enough!!!!)
And getting more books from her... She's got a bunch of books and series...
Can't wait to check more out from her!!!
An absolute terrific read!!!
June 29, 2014
2.5 stars.
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter, author and host of a TV show who’s returning home to the affluent community of Atherton, California, for the funeral of a friend, Kevin O’Neal, she hadn’t seen in thirteen years, a friend who was once accused of murdering a mutual friend and whose murder tore apart the community. While at the airport, she’s approached by an older couple who mention that they’d written to her months ago about the unsolved murder of their grandson, Jason, who happened to be killed at Atherton Prep while working at the new construction site there, which happens to be Max’s alma mater. Because this intrigues her and she’d like to bring closure to this couple if she can, she decides to find out what she can about his murder while in town.
I imagine the author thinks she’s writing an intelligent, brash, top-of-her-profession, sexy woman who still comes off as imperfect and a perhaps a little bit damaged due to having been abandoned by her mother around the age of ten (abandoned with her extremely wealthy grandparents, so I’m not sure being left by a deadbeat mother in that situation could really be considered a hardship), not knowing who her father is and because of the horrible events that have touched her life in the form of Lindy’s death, Kevin’s betrayal and Karen’s unsolved murder, but to me Max just came off as an obnoxious, sanctimonious know-it-all with a huge ego who thinks she’s better than everyone else, even though she’s never admit it.
Of course she’s rich, tall (her height actually went up half-an-inch at one point, from 5’ 10” to 5’ 10 ½”), brilliant, driven and gorgeous, and every man wants to sleep with her and once they do, they get way too clingy and want her to settle down and to control her but she just needs to run free like a wild mustang. I mean, kissing Nick when she barely knows him? I think she’s confusing taking what she wants with being slutty, as she frequently thinks about having a fling with men she just meets (because, of course, they all want her). Hilariously, at one point she says the men she sleeps with have to, at the minimum, respect her. Pretty sure if you’re thinking about a roll in the hay within the first five minutes of meeting them, knowing that you’ll only be in town for less than a week, respect won’t be at the top of any guy’s list. The author seems to want to make her act like a guy, like look at how tough yet sexy I am, instead, she just seems like an annoying, egotistical pain in the ass.
And thinking she’s above the law simply because she’s an investigative journalist and can control the story and not scare off those with information is ridiculous. At one point, she ends up going through police files at a scene and Nick just sternly moves her along, which is garbage. He would’ve arrested her or at the very least chewed her a new one. Yet she just snipes something about next time you put handcuffs on me, it better be for a sex game. Barf. At one point, Max thinks the following, “It wasn’t just narcissism that had made Lindy so arrogant; it was the people who’d disappointed her.” I think the same can be said about the main character. Yet for as perfect as she supposedly was, she made stupid mistakes that impeded her progress in the investigations (not getting a license plate number more than once, seeing who was driving the cars) and put her in harm’s way (checking out evidence where anyone could see her).
Most of the secondary characters were entitled jerks who thought because they had money and were pillars of the community, they were above the law. The fact that so many people felt that protecting the family name was more important than solving a murder was absurd and revolting. Andy Talbot, Max’s first love, and William Revere, her cousin who was more like a brother to her, were both amoral wusses and I can’t say anything better about the rest of her friends and family.
Nick was pretty much a cardboard cutout character, the cop who told Max no but helped solve the case and who filled the role of guy-I-want-to-screw-next for her, and the fact that she mentioned visiting him in another state at another was ridiculous because she didn’t know anything about the guy (oh, he’s a cop and has a kid, must be a great guy. Since she doesn’t seem too particular, I’m pretty sure she could find someone to sleep with back in New York). David, Max’s assistant/bodyguard, was the best character in the story and I’m pretty sure the author made him gay so that there was a great male character Max could be close to without having her try to get him into bed (though she’d probably think she could get him to switch teams if she really put her mind to it).
The story was actually pretty good if a little convoluted. I felt like there was too much going on at one time (plus, I kept thinking about how much I disliked Miss Perfect); Max trying to investigate Jason Hoffman’s murder, trying to figure out what was really going on at Atherton Prep and if and how it connected to Jason, attempting to find out if Kevin really committed suicide and who actually murdered Lindy, constant mentions of her parentage and Karen’s death along with all of other family drama (who was sleeping with whom now or in the past, who was lying, etc.). Throw in who she was going to decide to try to lure into her bed for a quick romp and the chick has way too much on her plate. Also, I don’t remember drugs having been mentioned in regard to the goings-on at Atherton (though they could’ve been and I just missed it) because at one point she mentions drugs, money laundering and murder . And quite a ways in, Max starts mentioning Lindy having been raped, but I don’t recall this being discussed at the beginning of the book. Like I said, it could be that I just missed these things or that they were gaffes but were only present because I was reading an ARC. I’m hoping that since it is an ARC, the grammatical mistakes that were present were corrected in the final copy, though I doubt that the lack of contractions in the last bit of the book, which were annoying, were changed (I’m continually amazed by how many editors let this slide because conversations wind up sounding unbelievably stilted when they aren’t used).
This book could’ve been much better if the plots were pared down some and possibly a bit more realistic and Max had been more likeable, meaning less perfect and full of herself, maybe questioning herself now and again or believing that someone other than her could actually be right. While I’m slightly interested to find out more about what happened to Max’s mom and Karen, because of my dislike for the main character, I doubt very much that I’ll be continuing with this series.
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter, author and host of a TV show who’s returning home to the affluent community of Atherton, California, for the funeral of a friend, Kevin O’Neal, she hadn’t seen in thirteen years, a friend who was once accused of murdering a mutual friend and whose murder tore apart the community. While at the airport, she’s approached by an older couple who mention that they’d written to her months ago about the unsolved murder of their grandson, Jason, who happened to be killed at Atherton Prep while working at the new construction site there, which happens to be Max’s alma mater. Because this intrigues her and she’d like to bring closure to this couple if she can, she decides to find out what she can about his murder while in town.
I imagine the author thinks she’s writing an intelligent, brash, top-of-her-profession, sexy woman who still comes off as imperfect and a perhaps a little bit damaged due to having been abandoned by her mother around the age of ten (abandoned with her extremely wealthy grandparents, so I’m not sure being left by a deadbeat mother in that situation could really be considered a hardship), not knowing who her father is and because of the horrible events that have touched her life in the form of Lindy’s death, Kevin’s betrayal and Karen’s unsolved murder, but to me Max just came off as an obnoxious, sanctimonious know-it-all with a huge ego who thinks she’s better than everyone else, even though she’s never admit it.
Of course she’s rich, tall (her height actually went up half-an-inch at one point, from 5’ 10” to 5’ 10 ½”), brilliant, driven and gorgeous, and every man wants to sleep with her and once they do, they get way too clingy and want her to settle down and to control her but she just needs to run free like a wild mustang. I mean, kissing Nick when she barely knows him? I think she’s confusing taking what she wants with being slutty, as she frequently thinks about having a fling with men she just meets (because, of course, they all want her). Hilariously, at one point she says the men she sleeps with have to, at the minimum, respect her. Pretty sure if you’re thinking about a roll in the hay within the first five minutes of meeting them, knowing that you’ll only be in town for less than a week, respect won’t be at the top of any guy’s list. The author seems to want to make her act like a guy, like look at how tough yet sexy I am, instead, she just seems like an annoying, egotistical pain in the ass.
And thinking she’s above the law simply because she’s an investigative journalist and can control the story and not scare off those with information is ridiculous. At one point, she ends up going through police files at a scene and Nick just sternly moves her along, which is garbage. He would’ve arrested her or at the very least chewed her a new one. Yet she just snipes something about next time you put handcuffs on me, it better be for a sex game. Barf. At one point, Max thinks the following, “It wasn’t just narcissism that had made Lindy so arrogant; it was the people who’d disappointed her.” I think the same can be said about the main character. Yet for as perfect as she supposedly was, she made stupid mistakes that impeded her progress in the investigations (not getting a license plate number more than once, seeing who was driving the cars) and put her in harm’s way (checking out evidence where anyone could see her).
Most of the secondary characters were entitled jerks who thought because they had money and were pillars of the community, they were above the law. The fact that so many people felt that protecting the family name was more important than solving a murder was absurd and revolting. Andy Talbot, Max’s first love, and William Revere, her cousin who was more like a brother to her, were both amoral wusses and I can’t say anything better about the rest of her friends and family.
Nick was pretty much a cardboard cutout character, the cop who told Max no but helped solve the case and who filled the role of guy-I-want-to-screw-next for her, and the fact that she mentioned visiting him in another state at another was ridiculous because she didn’t know anything about the guy (oh, he’s a cop and has a kid, must be a great guy. Since she doesn’t seem too particular, I’m pretty sure she could find someone to sleep with back in New York). David, Max’s assistant/bodyguard, was the best character in the story and I’m pretty sure the author made him gay so that there was a great male character Max could be close to without having her try to get him into bed (though she’d probably think she could get him to switch teams if she really put her mind to it).
The story was actually pretty good if a little convoluted. I felt like there was too much going on at one time (plus, I kept thinking about how much I disliked Miss Perfect); Max trying to investigate Jason Hoffman’s murder, trying to figure out what was really going on at Atherton Prep and if and how it connected to Jason, attempting to find out if Kevin really committed suicide and who actually murdered Lindy, constant mentions of her parentage and Karen’s death along with all of other family drama (who was sleeping with whom now or in the past, who was lying, etc.). Throw in who she was going to decide to try to lure into her bed for a quick romp and the chick has way too much on her plate. Also, I don’t remember drugs having been mentioned in regard to the goings-on at Atherton (though they could’ve been and I just missed it) because at one point she mentions drugs, money laundering and murder . And quite a ways in, Max starts mentioning Lindy having been raped, but I don’t recall this being discussed at the beginning of the book. Like I said, it could be that I just missed these things or that they were gaffes but were only present because I was reading an ARC. I’m hoping that since it is an ARC, the grammatical mistakes that were present were corrected in the final copy, though I doubt that the lack of contractions in the last bit of the book, which were annoying, were changed (I’m continually amazed by how many editors let this slide because conversations wind up sounding unbelievably stilted when they aren’t used).
This book could’ve been much better if the plots were pared down some and possibly a bit more realistic and Max had been more likeable, meaning less perfect and full of herself, maybe questioning herself now and again or believing that someone other than her could actually be right. While I’m slightly interested to find out more about what happened to Max’s mom and Karen, because of my dislike for the main character, I doubt very much that I’ll be continuing with this series.
August 23, 2014
Investigative reporter Maxine Revere returns to her home town to attend the funeral of a childhood friend. Kevin O'Neal was a troubled young man who at eighteen was tried for, but not convicted of, the murder of Lindy Ames. Although Lindy was Max's best friend, she stood by Kevin when everyone else turned their backs on him. Soon after the trial she became disillusioned. Kevin lied to her about his alibi. She still didn't believe he killed Lindy, but his lie kept the real killer from being apprehended. From that time until his death Max refused to talk to him.
Max was just a teenager when Lindy was murdered. Now she is a respected reporter with her own popular television show that specializes in cold cases. Because of her support of Kevin during his trial, Max has been on the outs with her wealthy family for years. She's only been home on two occasions, for the funeral of her great grandmother and for the wedding of a cousin. Maxine's own past is murky. She was raised by her grandmother from age ten, when her mother left and never returned.
While still at the airport, Max meets the grandparents of Jason Hoffman. They want her to take a look into his murder, which recently happened on the grounds of her former high school. Although she won't be staying long, Max decides to do what she can while she is in town. Soon after the funeral she must return to New York to report on an upcoming trial. She has no intention of delving into either murder, but new pieces of data keep drawing her in.
For a wealthy town where murder rarely occurs, the police have zero solve rates. Max is reluctant to leave Jason's case which is being put on the back burner just like Lindy's was. Lindy's case is also calling to her. When an anonymous phone call directs Maxine to leave town, she finds herself wondering why someone thinks she might succeed when the police did not.
Investigative reporter may be overused as a mystery heroine, but Max Revere is fresh and original and the mystery will keep the reader guessing. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
Max was just a teenager when Lindy was murdered. Now she is a respected reporter with her own popular television show that specializes in cold cases. Because of her support of Kevin during his trial, Max has been on the outs with her wealthy family for years. She's only been home on two occasions, for the funeral of her great grandmother and for the wedding of a cousin. Maxine's own past is murky. She was raised by her grandmother from age ten, when her mother left and never returned.
While still at the airport, Max meets the grandparents of Jason Hoffman. They want her to take a look into his murder, which recently happened on the grounds of her former high school. Although she won't be staying long, Max decides to do what she can while she is in town. Soon after the funeral she must return to New York to report on an upcoming trial. She has no intention of delving into either murder, but new pieces of data keep drawing her in.
For a wealthy town where murder rarely occurs, the police have zero solve rates. Max is reluctant to leave Jason's case which is being put on the back burner just like Lindy's was. Lindy's case is also calling to her. When an anonymous phone call directs Maxine to leave town, she finds herself wondering why someone thinks she might succeed when the police did not.
Investigative reporter may be overused as a mystery heroine, but Max Revere is fresh and original and the mystery will keep the reader guessing. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
August 25, 2021
Max Revere heads back to her hometown to attend the funeral of a high school friend. Kevin was charged, but not sentenced, for the murder of another high school friend of Max’s, Lindy. Kevin’s sister does not believe that Kevin killed himself and asks Max to look into it. When she does she starts looking into Lindy’s murder as well and uncovers secrets and lies that may destroy her own family.
Max Revere has some serious family issues. She comes from money and they aren’t happy that she got part of the inheritance. There is not a whole lot of trust in the family and her Uncle Brooks is still mad at her for telling everyone his secret years ago. I can see why Max stays away.
This was a good mystery with many characters and many twists. They all came together at the end and the author did a fantastic job keeping everything on the same level and not confusing the reader. The story concludes on a good note, but you can’t help but feel sorry for all involved. The injustice to Kevin, the lies, betrayal, lost friendships. Even after all the work Max put into finding the truth, her family still looks down on her.
Max’s fierce determination for truth and her research skills make this story interesting and informative.
Max Revere has some serious family issues. She comes from money and they aren’t happy that she got part of the inheritance. There is not a whole lot of trust in the family and her Uncle Brooks is still mad at her for telling everyone his secret years ago. I can see why Max stays away.
This was a good mystery with many characters and many twists. They all came together at the end and the author did a fantastic job keeping everything on the same level and not confusing the reader. The story concludes on a good note, but you can’t help but feel sorry for all involved. The injustice to Kevin, the lies, betrayal, lost friendships. Even after all the work Max put into finding the truth, her family still looks down on her.
Max’s fierce determination for truth and her research skills make this story interesting and informative.
February 15, 2015
I loved this book. So many suspects to choose from on 2 different murders. There were times I didn't really like the main character Maxine but she grew on me. Now I'm going to have to find other books with Max and hopefully Nick.
April 14, 2016
This is the first book of Allison Brennan that I've ever read and the first book in her new Mixine Revere series.And I love it ,once I picked it up and started to read I could put it down.
December 12, 2014
an audio book I picked up at the library without any design or idea of what I was getting aside from the back blurb. It was OK, not my kind of mystery. Too many people thrown at the reader to set up at least 10 people who might have been the killer, two different mysteries and no up front knowledge of how they are related. Too confusing to follow easily on audio. I did like the female heroine--Maxine Revere--she was smart, determined and had an interesting background--though a little too convenient for the story.
Maxine is a television investigate reporter, returned to her home town for the funeral of a friend. A friend she stood by when he was accursed of a murder of their best friend. Maxine testified for his innocence and lost many friends in the process. Now he has killed himself and she wants to comfort his sister, who can not believe it was a suicide. Thats the story set up to try to explain where it goes from there would take too many pages.
The author tries to obfuscate what is going on by introducing more and more characters, more and more details and more and more of the protagonist's background into too few pages. It was hard to keep straight who was who, who was related to whom and who were friends and who were enemies of whom. I found the 1st five CD's quite good but than it just got boring and I wanted only to skip ahead, might have felt different if I was reading it but I doubt it. Did want to see who really did it but had a good guess at the end. That was the reason for the 2 stars as the author did keep me guessing to the end.
Maxine is a television investigate reporter, returned to her home town for the funeral of a friend. A friend she stood by when he was accursed of a murder of their best friend. Maxine testified for his innocence and lost many friends in the process. Now he has killed himself and she wants to comfort his sister, who can not believe it was a suicide. Thats the story set up to try to explain where it goes from there would take too many pages.
The author tries to obfuscate what is going on by introducing more and more characters, more and more details and more and more of the protagonist's background into too few pages. It was hard to keep straight who was who, who was related to whom and who were friends and who were enemies of whom. I found the 1st five CD's quite good but than it just got boring and I wanted only to skip ahead, might have felt different if I was reading it but I doubt it. Did want to see who really did it but had a good guess at the end. That was the reason for the 2 stars as the author did keep me guessing to the end.
April 29, 2014
"...all I could think was that Wonder Woman's real name is Maxine Revere."
· Strong, smart, in-your-face female investigative reporter. Check!
· Sexy, strong-enough-to-stand-up-to-her male cop. Check!
· Realistic dialogue. Check!
· Lots of action and quick page turning. Check!
NOTORIOUS is one of the best mystery/thriller/romances I've read in the last few months. It caught my interest on the first page and kept the pace up to the "killer" ending.
I liked Maxine Revere and am glad to see that she is going to have her own series. I did notice that there is a short story/novella out in Kindle land called "Maximum Exposure (Max Revere Novels)" that takes place prior to this tale. I plan on reading it next. And I hope the next Max Revere novel isn't too far out in the future.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
· Strong, smart, in-your-face female investigative reporter. Check!
· Sexy, strong-enough-to-stand-up-to-her male cop. Check!
· Realistic dialogue. Check!
· Lots of action and quick page turning. Check!
NOTORIOUS is one of the best mystery/thriller/romances I've read in the last few months. It caught my interest on the first page and kept the pace up to the "killer" ending.
I liked Maxine Revere and am glad to see that she is going to have her own series. I did notice that there is a short story/novella out in Kindle land called "Maximum Exposure (Max Revere Novels)" that takes place prior to this tale. I plan on reading it next. And I hope the next Max Revere novel isn't too far out in the future.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 1, 2018
Maxine Revere's best friend was murdered in high school and another friend, Kevin, stood trial for the crime. Thirteen years later, Kevin commits suicide and Kevin's sister asks Max to look into his death. Also, Max learns of a more recent case where a man is killed on her old high school campus. Following the evidence, she wonders if the two cases could be related. Compounding the problem, her own wealthy family may be involved. Regardless of who may be hurt, Max won't stop until she uncovers the truth.
Max was an investigative reporter for nine years before getting a TV show showcasing cold cases. This book, out in 2014, is the 1st in the series. I've read book #5 and it's nice to go back to the beginning and learn more about Max. I like her no-nonsense, cut-to-the-chase style. I'm interested in finding and reading more Max Revere stories.
Max was an investigative reporter for nine years before getting a TV show showcasing cold cases. This book, out in 2014, is the 1st in the series. I've read book #5 and it's nice to go back to the beginning and learn more about Max. I like her no-nonsense, cut-to-the-chase style. I'm interested in finding and reading more Max Revere stories.
April 11, 2015
4.5 Stars. Awesome read and I can't believe I took this long to pick up Maxine Revere's story. Max is a investigative reporter that has her own television show that is dedicated to solving the crimes that police have given up on. She does her job so well that it tends to get her in trouble at times. Our Max is a very strong, rich woman with a sarcastic wit and a fondness for good looking dark eyed cops. Well for one named Nick for sure. Allison Brennan is known for her top-notch attention to the mystery details and this new series is no exception. Really looking forward to the next Maxine Revere mystery.
January 16, 2018
Just like the prequel, I liked this first installment of the series very much! Keeps you guessing almost until the end. I really like Max her character, her cynical remarks can be so funny. Had me laughing out loud multiple times. And of course Max her moral drive and the deeper personal layer present in the story made the book much better than a standard detective novel.
August 25, 2021
I did a read/listen to this book. The narrator, Eliza Foss, does a fantastic performance. She brings me into the story with her smooth delivery.
After a long self-imposed exile, Max comes home for a funeral of an old friend. She is reminded why she left California when events stir up many old memories. The police rule Kevin’s death a suicide, but his sister doesn’t buy it. She begs Max to use her investigative skills and talk show soap box to expose her brother’s killers. Max is also approached by the Hoffmans to investigate the murder of their grandson, Jason who has a link to Max’s alma mater.
Notorious is a fast-paced story that elaborates on some of the events touched on in the previous book. Max knows how unsolved murders can weigh on the minds of family and friends left behind. As Max works on Jason’s murder, the memory Lindy’s murder weighs heavy especially when old school friends and ex-boyfriends bring her up often.
This story lets the reader in on Max’s backstory. It is easier to understand her motivation and career path. Her family is not happy with Max’s decision to investigate the local murders mainly because of family members picking sides.
It is tough to see Max hurt by people she loves, but she doesn’t let their pressure or threats sway her from doing what she believes is right. Max is a complex character who intrigues me. I’m interested in her assistant/bodyguard, and I want to learn more of his story. I am looking forward to discovering more about the law enforcement people she works with; is there a possible love interest in the future. I can’t wait to dig into the next book, and plan on reading the series
After a long self-imposed exile, Max comes home for a funeral of an old friend. She is reminded why she left California when events stir up many old memories. The police rule Kevin’s death a suicide, but his sister doesn’t buy it. She begs Max to use her investigative skills and talk show soap box to expose her brother’s killers. Max is also approached by the Hoffmans to investigate the murder of their grandson, Jason who has a link to Max’s alma mater.
Notorious is a fast-paced story that elaborates on some of the events touched on in the previous book. Max knows how unsolved murders can weigh on the minds of family and friends left behind. As Max works on Jason’s murder, the memory Lindy’s murder weighs heavy especially when old school friends and ex-boyfriends bring her up often.
This story lets the reader in on Max’s backstory. It is easier to understand her motivation and career path. Her family is not happy with Max’s decision to investigate the local murders mainly because of family members picking sides.
It is tough to see Max hurt by people she loves, but she doesn’t let their pressure or threats sway her from doing what she believes is right. Max is a complex character who intrigues me. I’m interested in her assistant/bodyguard, and I want to learn more of his story. I am looking forward to discovering more about the law enforcement people she works with; is there a possible love interest in the future. I can’t wait to dig into the next book, and plan on reading the series
March 18, 2025
Just awful. Way too many characters, too many plots and too, too long. It should have been in the Young Adult section. The writing was horrendous, desperately needed editing.
I despised Maxine, a self centered wench. I could go on and on about how much I dislike this book, but I won’t. Reading the next book in the series is not even an option.
I despised Maxine, a self centered wench. I could go on and on about how much I dislike this book, but I won’t. Reading the next book in the series is not even an option.
March 10, 2014
Maxine Revere has dealt with more unsolved death in her life than the average person. While the murders of her high school best friend during their senior year, and later her college best friend in an unrelated crime led her to become an investigative reporter that takes on cold cases across the country for her national television show, she's still haunted by their deaths. Estranged from the friend who was accused but not convicted of the murder in high school, Max reluctantly returns to her home town for his funeral after he commits suicide. Kevin was never able to recover from the stigma of being accused of Lindy's murder, so he'd drank and drugged himself into oblivion in the ensuing years. But he'd also been doing some digging into the murder when the police wouldn't do anymore, and he tried to contact Max after thirteen years--but she wouldn't speak to him.
Max has only been back to her hometown a handful of times since high school. Even though she grew up rich and privileged, she was the black sheep of the family since her flighty mother dropped her off to live with her grandparents when she was ten years old. Max has always been outspoken, hated lies to the point of exposing others deceit no matter what the consequences, and that doesn't go over well in the high society of her community that thinks they should be able to do what they want without repercussions. Her family certainly wasn't happy when Max sided with her friend Kevin, the boy accused of killing Lindy.
When Max arrives at the local airport with her assistant/bodyguard David in tow, an elderly couple recognizes her and asks her to look into the murder of their grandson. This happened on a construction site of her former school's property, which is also where her best friend's body was discovered all those years ago. Even though she promises them nothing, she says that she'll look into it. In the meantime, she meets with Kevin's sister, who's convinced that Kevin didn't kill himself. When Max agrees to look into this, she unwittingly opens up a storm of intertwining events that go back to high school and Lindy's murder, and maybe even the latest murder in town. Just how far will Max go to find the truth and how much of the past is she willing to dig up to get there?
Max is an interesting and complex character. Blunt, head strong, smart and determined, she is used to getting what she wants, and she knows exactly how to manipulate people and situations to her ends. Max is able to make connections and get information where the police haven't been able to, and that's what makes her such a great investigator. She is also afraid of commitment and has trouble sharing or asking people for help, however, and she has a very complicated relationship with her family. Her assistant David was a nice treat and I look forward to seeing more of him in the next book. He's smart, connected, and resourceful, and he's super protective of his boss.
Detective Nick Santini helps Max when he can, but only after she's proven herself to him. He's tough, no nonsense, and sees through her crap, so he's on to her tactics in a second. Plus, Nick knows that the original detective in the murder has it out for Max and acts accordingly.
I give Notorious a 4.5 out of 5. With great pacing and excellent twists, I couldn't put this one down as Max put the pieces together (with a little bit of help from Nick and David) and solved the murders. Max is a intriguing character and puts herself at risk while she's trying to find the answers, even if it's going to cost her personally. The back story snippets about Max's family and history that were sprinkled throughout have left me eager for the next book. This is an excellent beginning to thrilling new series.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms)
Max has only been back to her hometown a handful of times since high school. Even though she grew up rich and privileged, she was the black sheep of the family since her flighty mother dropped her off to live with her grandparents when she was ten years old. Max has always been outspoken, hated lies to the point of exposing others deceit no matter what the consequences, and that doesn't go over well in the high society of her community that thinks they should be able to do what they want without repercussions. Her family certainly wasn't happy when Max sided with her friend Kevin, the boy accused of killing Lindy.
When Max arrives at the local airport with her assistant/bodyguard David in tow, an elderly couple recognizes her and asks her to look into the murder of their grandson. This happened on a construction site of her former school's property, which is also where her best friend's body was discovered all those years ago. Even though she promises them nothing, she says that she'll look into it. In the meantime, she meets with Kevin's sister, who's convinced that Kevin didn't kill himself. When Max agrees to look into this, she unwittingly opens up a storm of intertwining events that go back to high school and Lindy's murder, and maybe even the latest murder in town. Just how far will Max go to find the truth and how much of the past is she willing to dig up to get there?
Max is an interesting and complex character. Blunt, head strong, smart and determined, she is used to getting what she wants, and she knows exactly how to manipulate people and situations to her ends. Max is able to make connections and get information where the police haven't been able to, and that's what makes her such a great investigator. She is also afraid of commitment and has trouble sharing or asking people for help, however, and she has a very complicated relationship with her family. Her assistant David was a nice treat and I look forward to seeing more of him in the next book. He's smart, connected, and resourceful, and he's super protective of his boss.
Detective Nick Santini helps Max when he can, but only after she's proven herself to him. He's tough, no nonsense, and sees through her crap, so he's on to her tactics in a second. Plus, Nick knows that the original detective in the murder has it out for Max and acts accordingly.
I give Notorious a 4.5 out of 5. With great pacing and excellent twists, I couldn't put this one down as Max put the pieces together (with a little bit of help from Nick and David) and solved the murders. Max is a intriguing character and puts herself at risk while she's trying to find the answers, even if it's going to cost her personally. The back story snippets about Max's family and history that were sprinkled throughout have left me eager for the next book. This is an excellent beginning to thrilling new series.
(Also on Bewitched Bookworms)
March 4, 2014
Brace yourself for the forces of the past and present as they collide with the firestorm that is Max Revere! Notorious by Allison Brennan is one action and intrigue packed moment after another as we are introduced to one of the strongest, and smartest female heroines ever! Max returns home to attend the funeral of a man she once turned her back on when he needed her most. The world she left behind holds no warm memories. Older, wiser and more independent than ever, Maxine is now an investigative reporter who has tasted danger, exposed the underbelly of life and lived to tell about it.
Max promises the sister of her late best friend she will look into his suicide death, because something just does not sit right, there is more to the story and she is determined to get to the bottom of it, no matter who or what tries to get in her way. Kevin was accused of murder, a crime he swears he did not commit and he was acquitted in the eyes of the law, but branded in his own town. Obsessed with finding the real killer, he spirals into drug and alcohol abuse, until he takes his own life, but not before leaving scattered breadcrumbs for Max to follow. What she discovers has far more impact and uncovers other unsolved crimes and the trail is leading too close to home for her comfort. Few of the local authorities will cooperate, most do all they can to thwart her investigation, but obviously they do not know Max. A fascinating and riveting mystery thriller with one heck of a heroine, Notorious is a twisted ride through the dark tunnels of secrets, danger and the brutal glare of truths revealed!
Allison Brennan knows how to bring life to her characters and lead them down into the world she has created for them like the consummate puppeteer. Max is tough, but feminine, smart and edgy, yet vulnerable to her own mistakes and regrets. She has heart, a conscience and a grit that makes her larger-than-life! The supporting characters keep you guessing, who can she trust, who is hiding something, are they good, evil or just mean-spirited? With each changing page and emotional tension, Ms. Brennan’s style makes this smooth sailing at warp speed. Mystery lovers, here’s your next great read, Mystery newbies, here’s the perfect introduction to a contemporary who-dun-it!
I received this ARC edition from Minotaur Books in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Max Revere - Book 1
Publication Date: March 25, 2014
Publisher: Minotaur Books
ISBN: 9781250035059
Genre: Adult Fiction | Mystery/Thrillers
Number of pages: 337
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Max promises the sister of her late best friend she will look into his suicide death, because something just does not sit right, there is more to the story and she is determined to get to the bottom of it, no matter who or what tries to get in her way. Kevin was accused of murder, a crime he swears he did not commit and he was acquitted in the eyes of the law, but branded in his own town. Obsessed with finding the real killer, he spirals into drug and alcohol abuse, until he takes his own life, but not before leaving scattered breadcrumbs for Max to follow. What she discovers has far more impact and uncovers other unsolved crimes and the trail is leading too close to home for her comfort. Few of the local authorities will cooperate, most do all they can to thwart her investigation, but obviously they do not know Max. A fascinating and riveting mystery thriller with one heck of a heroine, Notorious is a twisted ride through the dark tunnels of secrets, danger and the brutal glare of truths revealed!
Allison Brennan knows how to bring life to her characters and lead them down into the world she has created for them like the consummate puppeteer. Max is tough, but feminine, smart and edgy, yet vulnerable to her own mistakes and regrets. She has heart, a conscience and a grit that makes her larger-than-life! The supporting characters keep you guessing, who can she trust, who is hiding something, are they good, evil or just mean-spirited? With each changing page and emotional tension, Ms. Brennan’s style makes this smooth sailing at warp speed. Mystery lovers, here’s your next great read, Mystery newbies, here’s the perfect introduction to a contemporary who-dun-it!
I received this ARC edition from Minotaur Books in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Max Revere - Book 1
Publication Date: March 25, 2014
Publisher: Minotaur Books
ISBN: 9781250035059
Genre: Adult Fiction | Mystery/Thrillers
Number of pages: 337
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
March 23, 2014
NOTORIOUS was an engaging and entertaining start to a new series. The main character is Maxine Revere who is independently wealthy and is the semi-black sheep of a prominent California family. She had a messed up childhood. Her mother was constantly on the move and dragged Max with her until she was 9. Then her mother dropped her off with her grandparents and disappeared. All Max had were some birthday cards which stopped arriving when she was sixteen and questions - why did her mother leave her? who was her father?
Max grew up with a close circle of friends including her cousin William who was more life a brother. Things fell apart when her good friend Lindy was strangled and her other good friend Kevin was accused of the crime. Max was the only one of her circle of friends who didn't believe that Kevin didn't do it. Trial ended without convicting Kevin - six jurors thought he was guilty and six did not. But when Max learned that Kevin had lied to her about his alibi, Max cut herself off from him. The one thing that Max wasn't able to tolerate in her life was lies.
Max left for school on the East Coast and became an investigative reporter. The death of her college roommate while on Spring break in Florida helped push Max in that direction. Her roommate's body was never found and the person accused of the crime was never convicted. Max spent a year trying to find out what happened to her roommate which led to her writing her first book about the case.
When this story begins, Max has a successful career and a television show which investigates cold cases. Max is determined to find the truth because she believes it is the only way that families can find peace. She is called back to California because Kevin has committed suicide. He could never get past being accused of killing Lindy and had turned to drugs and alcohol. He had also continued to try to find out who really killed Lindy.
In the airport, she is approached by two people who want her to investigate the death of their grandson. When Max finds out that he was killed on the grounds of her old high school, she agrees to look into the case a little.
It doesn't take long for Max to be deeply involved in both cases despite anonymous threats over the phone and threats from the detective who worked on Lindy's case and is sure that Kevin got away with murder. Max's investigation is complicated by all the intertwined relationships she has with those involved in Lindy's case.
I liked the mystery even though I didn't really bond with Max. She was very rigid in her stance on lying and she was rather reckless too. I did admire her focus and her determination to find the truth no matter who might get hurt along the way. I liked her relationship with her assistant David and her tentative new romance with the police detective working the case of the dead grandson - Nick Santini. However, given Max's stance on relationships, I don't hold out much hope for a lasting romance there.
I'll be eager to see where Allison Brennan takes Max next. I wonder how Max would be in a case that was not so personal to her. I can't wait to find out!
Max grew up with a close circle of friends including her cousin William who was more life a brother. Things fell apart when her good friend Lindy was strangled and her other good friend Kevin was accused of the crime. Max was the only one of her circle of friends who didn't believe that Kevin didn't do it. Trial ended without convicting Kevin - six jurors thought he was guilty and six did not. But when Max learned that Kevin had lied to her about his alibi, Max cut herself off from him. The one thing that Max wasn't able to tolerate in her life was lies.
Max left for school on the East Coast and became an investigative reporter. The death of her college roommate while on Spring break in Florida helped push Max in that direction. Her roommate's body was never found and the person accused of the crime was never convicted. Max spent a year trying to find out what happened to her roommate which led to her writing her first book about the case.
When this story begins, Max has a successful career and a television show which investigates cold cases. Max is determined to find the truth because she believes it is the only way that families can find peace. She is called back to California because Kevin has committed suicide. He could never get past being accused of killing Lindy and had turned to drugs and alcohol. He had also continued to try to find out who really killed Lindy.
In the airport, she is approached by two people who want her to investigate the death of their grandson. When Max finds out that he was killed on the grounds of her old high school, she agrees to look into the case a little.
It doesn't take long for Max to be deeply involved in both cases despite anonymous threats over the phone and threats from the detective who worked on Lindy's case and is sure that Kevin got away with murder. Max's investigation is complicated by all the intertwined relationships she has with those involved in Lindy's case.
I liked the mystery even though I didn't really bond with Max. She was very rigid in her stance on lying and she was rather reckless too. I did admire her focus and her determination to find the truth no matter who might get hurt along the way. I liked her relationship with her assistant David and her tentative new romance with the police detective working the case of the dead grandson - Nick Santini. However, given Max's stance on relationships, I don't hold out much hope for a lasting romance there.
I'll be eager to see where Allison Brennan takes Max next. I wonder how Max would be in a case that was not so personal to her. I can't wait to find out!
May 6, 2014
Maxine "Max" Revere was dumped off on her snooty grandparents as a child by a mother who wanted to be free of all responsibilities and this led Max to have trust issues and an inability to tolerate even the smallest white lie. There is a rather sad sense of aloneness to her that was palpable throughout the book. She has a good heart and wants to help other people but she has a way of keeping others at an emotional distance so not to be hurt or disappointed again.
Having inherited millions from her great-grandmother (her missing mother's share), Max writes books about true crime (like the author Ann Rule) and has her own television show where she delves into cold cases. She runs right into a bunch of cases when she returns to the town in California where her relatives live (she hasn't been there for years because she avoids them) for the funeral of an ex-boyfriend from high school at the request of the man's sister. Kevin had a cloud over him these past years since he was accused of murdering their high school friend Lindy and getting off due to a hung jury. Most still think he did it, including a very nasty cop who handled the case.
Kevin didn't do it and Max had stood up for him which caused the town-and that cop- to turn on her. Now that she is back, she is up to her neck in trying to prove Kevin innocent plus trying to solve the reason why a young man was killed who found a body at the construction site of a new building at the exclusive private school and solve Lindy's case all while dealing with the smoldering hatred of the nasty detective, a smoldering hot attraction to another cop, and her impossible family led by the grandmother/matriarch who raised her and will do ANYTHING to protect the family from scandal.
As Max digs deeper, she is followed, attacked, spends a night in jail (thanks to the nasty cop), faces witnesses who won't tell her anything, fights with the family, but keeps on digging. The closer she comes to solving the crimes, the more dangerous it gets for her.
Having inherited millions from her great-grandmother (her missing mother's share), Max writes books about true crime (like the author Ann Rule) and has her own television show where she delves into cold cases. She runs right into a bunch of cases when she returns to the town in California where her relatives live (she hasn't been there for years because she avoids them) for the funeral of an ex-boyfriend from high school at the request of the man's sister. Kevin had a cloud over him these past years since he was accused of murdering their high school friend Lindy and getting off due to a hung jury. Most still think he did it, including a very nasty cop who handled the case.
Kevin didn't do it and Max had stood up for him which caused the town-and that cop- to turn on her. Now that she is back, she is up to her neck in trying to prove Kevin innocent plus trying to solve the reason why a young man was killed who found a body at the construction site of a new building at the exclusive private school and solve Lindy's case all while dealing with the smoldering hatred of the nasty detective, a smoldering hot attraction to another cop, and her impossible family led by the grandmother/matriarch who raised her and will do ANYTHING to protect the family from scandal.
As Max digs deeper, she is followed, attacked, spends a night in jail (thanks to the nasty cop), faces witnesses who won't tell her anything, fights with the family, but keeps on digging. The closer she comes to solving the crimes, the more dangerous it gets for her.
October 17, 2017
I wasn't blown away by this book for two reasons.
The first is that there's way too much going on. Max goes home because a friend from high school died, and his sister doesn't believe it was suicide, so Max goes to investigate. But on her way to the airport, she meets a couple who asks her to investigate the murder of their grandson's death. And mixed in there, she talks about how another high school friend, was also killed when they were teenagers. So right from the beginning, we know Max is either magically going to solve all three situations in a 300-page book, or they'll somehow, miraculously, be related to each other. Spoiler alert: they're all related. Because there are three murders to solve in one book, there are way too many characters. I had a hard time keeping track of who everyone was, and I almost felt like I was supposed to take notes so I didn't forget. It shouldn't be work to understand a book.
The second reason is the writing, and part of that was writing Max to be a very stupid character. She puts herself in reckless situations constantly just because she thinks the police aren't willing to help her, even though they almost always are. She breaks multiple laws in the process of her investigations just to prove a point (that she's a better detective than the police), but she always has to call someone to save her in the end anyway, so what's the point? On the technical side of the writing, you know when people mention something, but then say they can't talk about it after someone asks? The author does that a lot in this book. She mentions things and then abruptly changes the subject or never truly goes into detail about them - so why bother to mention them at all if they aren't relevant to the story?
The story itself is just okay. There's a lot of action sequences where Max breaks the laws to uncover the truth; a ton of family drama; the beginnings of a very dry romantic relationship; the ending came out of left field, but not in a good-shock kind of way. It wasn't predictable because it didn't make any sense. Essentially, meh.
The first is that there's way too much going on. Max goes home because a friend from high school died, and his sister doesn't believe it was suicide, so Max goes to investigate. But on her way to the airport, she meets a couple who asks her to investigate the murder of their grandson's death. And mixed in there, she talks about how another high school friend, was also killed when they were teenagers. So right from the beginning, we know Max is either magically going to solve all three situations in a 300-page book, or they'll somehow, miraculously, be related to each other. Spoiler alert: they're all related. Because there are three murders to solve in one book, there are way too many characters. I had a hard time keeping track of who everyone was, and I almost felt like I was supposed to take notes so I didn't forget. It shouldn't be work to understand a book.
The second reason is the writing, and part of that was writing Max to be a very stupid character. She puts herself in reckless situations constantly just because she thinks the police aren't willing to help her, even though they almost always are. She breaks multiple laws in the process of her investigations just to prove a point (that she's a better detective than the police), but she always has to call someone to save her in the end anyway, so what's the point? On the technical side of the writing, you know when people mention something, but then say they can't talk about it after someone asks? The author does that a lot in this book. She mentions things and then abruptly changes the subject or never truly goes into detail about them - so why bother to mention them at all if they aren't relevant to the story?
The story itself is just okay. There's a lot of action sequences where Max breaks the laws to uncover the truth; a ton of family drama; the beginnings of a very dry romantic relationship; the ending came out of left field, but not in a good-shock kind of way. It wasn't predictable because it didn't make any sense. Essentially, meh.
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