While there are still a few in this series I haven't read (about 20), one thing always stuck in my mind. I've always wanted to know more about Summerset and this story gave me that at so much more. The mind of a truly heinous criminal has always fascinated me and I lived the deep dive into the mind of this one in particular. A misogynistic jerk (and so many other words that would probably flag this review lol) whose only goal is to win his own war, no matter the casualties. And then we have Eve and her entire crew who twist your brain as well as their own to solve the crime(s). I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation of the final takedown and it did not disappoint. (Will also say that some parts gave me the shivers given what is happening in our country today).

4.5 stars
It's hard to believe that Bonded in Death is the 60th book in J.D. Robb's "In Death" series featuring Lt. Eve Dallas. Robb does a great job of creating a future world with original styles, slang, and details about life in the future in this procedural/romantic suspense series. I've missed a few, but have read many of the books in this series and I can say this one is really good. Eve and her partner, Detective Delia Peabody, get involved in a case that is connected to the Urban Wars in London. The case also has surprising ties to the butler and mentor of Eve's charming billionaire husband, Roarke. In this book, the readers learn more about Summerset's background and the character has never been so interesting or likable. Summerset is in danger, but he and some of his old friends could be the key to solving the case. 

Eve's whole team and several other members of the NYPD and of course Roark, the "civilian consultant" who is an IT genius, help investigate. Eve and Roarke are clearly the main characters, but my favorite has always been Peabody, a more sentimental, but very smart detective. I'm always happy when she is given a chance to shine as she is in this book. I recommend this book to both returning readers and those new to the series. 

I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher for review consideration, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

Bonded in Death by J.D. Robb is an epic tale that delves into themes of loyalty, treachery, murder, and the lingering effects of war. The story is filled with thrilling moments that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The final interrogation scene is particularly satisfying, delivering a conclusion that will leave readers thoroughly captivated.

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart


Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I love the In Death series. I am always so happy to have a new book in this series. The characters have become beloved to me, and their circle of friends with comfortable connections. The smart way the police work the cases and try to get a vision of what happened and what makes sense is always exciting. In addition to the case, I enjoy the personal growth of the characters. There's nothing realistic about the stories but the characters' emotions.

Bonded in Death is the 60th in the series. I have read every one. Each book is a comfort read with much loved characters. I love police procedurals and the technology which Roarke and EDD use. The characters and their progress is fun with their wide group of friends.

I was very excited for the story of the Twelve and more on Summerset's past. It was thrilling to learn about each of his compatriots and what happened to his wife. I don't recall very much information about the Urban Wars in the series and the knowledge added on it is limited. But we meet each of the Twelve and gain an understanding what their skills and roles were.

The murderer is quickly determined but it is a big task to prove it and collect evidence while protecting the remaining members of the Twelve. Luckily, they immediately like and trust Eve so they are convinced to provide support without running about on their own. They stay together in Roarke's home with exceptional security and Summerset sees to their needs.

As usual Eve gathers facts and information quickly and deduces some of the culprit's plans. Her ability to narrow down the options to capture him is an incredible talent. She is also adept at managing her team to track down information and evidence. I felt a great connection to the intellectual aspects.

On the other hand, the emotional aspects was less than usual. There seemed less time for the couple or the collection of friends. Most of the story was focused on the action of the case. The reunion of the Twelve was heartwarming but they aren't highlighted other than as aids to the investigation.

I'll always read these and love them. I would start at the beginning if you haven't read them, as all the books are excellent and the personal relationships and careers develop as you progress in the series. I can't wait for Framed in Death in September.

I have skipped around in this futuristic sixty-book series (yes, sixty, what an accomplishment!), and this is one of my favorite installments due to its intriguing plot and blend of mystery, action, and great chemistry among the characters. This one is set in NYC in 2061 and starts with a dramatic crime. The investigation leads to some additional backstory on the supporting character of Summerset and the Urban Wars mentioned throughout the series.

I love FMC Eve Dallas. She throws her heart into every case. She has her work cut out for her in this story, but she also has the support of her husband, Roarke, and partner, Peabody, and the other supporting characters. I enjoy visiting this group of characters. They have a fun dynamic, and their dialogue is often humorous. Eve and Roarke may have a lot on their plates in this installment, but their emotion and tenderness are still conveyed, which helps to balance the story. This time, though, the crime has hit close to home as the victim dies with Eve's card in his hand and is connected to Summerset, who is Roark's butler and a father figure to him. Eve and Summerset do not have the most cordial relationship, and it was interesting to see this case progress things between them.

Fast-paced and well-plotted, this was bingable and kept me guessing. Eve may have several futuristic gadgets at her disposal, but one of the things I appreciate about this series is that she does solid investigative work, and we get a peek into her deductions. This case is complex and layered, involving people who were spies and fallout from a war decades in the past that Eve and Peabody have to consider even as they are racing the clock to hunt down a killer before they strike again. Action-packed with lots of tension, this was an excellent addition to the series, and I look forward to book sixty-one!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for the gifted book!

the setup…
Giovanni Rossi arrives in New York from Rome, excited to reconnect with an old friend who sent him an urgent message asking him to come. He’s greeted by the limo driver, completely in keeping with what his friend would arrange. Within minutes of getting in the car he’s dead. When Lieutenant Eve Dallas and her team begin the investigation, everything about this is puzzling, including the type of gas used to kill Rossi. She discovers his connection to the Urban Wars and decides to ask Summerset for information. His immediate shock and grief turns the case in a completely different direction.

the heart of the story…
I’ve wanted this story since the early days of the series! Summerset’s history before he set up in Dublin has always been murky and I knew he had been part of the Urban Wars. However, I was unprepared for the role he actually played as a member of The Twelve, a group of covert operatives who each had specialized skills and could move around under the radar. They went their separate ways after the war, taking an oath to each other except for the one who had betrayed them. It’s clear that someone is now targeting the remaining members of The Twelve.

the bottom line…
This story couldn’t be more timely as elements of what stimulated the Urban Wars are emerging in current times. Members of The Twelve were fascinating in their own right and as a team. Summerset takes on new dimensions, finally filling in those remaining holes and gaps about the man. Eve has her hands full as she has to balance using these exceptional minds and keeping them at arm’s length as she and her team are pushed to the limits to find the killer and anticipate his moves. I was on the edge of my seat for the last half of the story and loved the ending. And, now there’s an indelible connection between Summerset and Eve…oh, the irony!

Bonded in Death by J.D. Robb is the 60th book in this fantastic series. Bonded in Death was one of the best in this series, as it was a terrific intense and exciting story that kept me unable to put the book down. Fantastic.

Giovanni Rossi, who lives in Rome, received an urgent summons from an old friend to come to New York; when he landed and entered a waiting car, he is immediately gassed to death. Giovanni was part of a secret organization consisting of 12 members during the urban wars (during the 2024-2026). The group, called The Twelve, were part of British intelligence, doing all they could to save people during the wars which included Summerset.

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is on the Rossi case, as he was an elderly victim who had just arrived from Rome, and immediately killed. Eve and Peabody investigate the murder, and when she arrives at home, Summerset sees her board, and is shocked; as he reveals that he knows the victim. Summerset explains that during the urban wars, he was part of The Twelve (helping save lives for the British); which has Eve examing the conflict in Europe in 2026. She learns quickly that the man who betrayed them, was sent to prison and in recent years, he died. There was is a cryptic message from the killer, who plans to find The Twelve and kill them. Eve will discover that the Shark, had help to escape, and another victim’s ashes were buried instead. We do to see more of Summerset and his backstory, as well as the remaining Twelve who were all brought to Roarke’s place to keep them protected.

Connor Potter, now using a fake name, is the evil killer, who makes plans to kill each of The Twelve (with Alice, Summerset’s wife, who was killed back in 2026, when she saved the others; as well as 3 more who already passed). Connor was an evil killer, who is determined to set up traps to kill his former friends.

Dallas, Peabody, Roarke, and the entire team work long hours to try and find Potter, before he kills again. Roarke was able to remove a device that would have had three members of the Twelve, who attended a lunch (set up secretly by Potter); which led everyone hoping to catch him. But he managed to escape, and kidnapped a young boy, threatening his life; but as we get closer to the end, Eve does set up a trap, with all of her team to get him.

I loved how the four of the wonderful women who play a large part of this series (Eve, Peabody, Mira and Reo), get Potter to reveal his plans. Especially when he treated women as nothing, and his knowing he was being sent to Britian, but when he learned his life was going to be drastic change. I loved it.

Bonded in Death was a terrific, emotional, mystery, spy thriller, that kept me unable to put the book down. Bonded in Death was a fantastic read that brought family and friends together, as well as betrayal, greed, connections, justice, bonds and love. Once again, J.D. Robb gives another fantastic thriller, and I thought this was one of the best. Bonded in Death was very well written by J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts).

Book 60 and this series is still as exciting and thrilling as all the books before it. An intriguing story that takes us back to the Urban Wars where Summerset and his friends were involved in secret ops. There’s friendship, betrayal, & murder. And where there’s murder, there’s Lt. Eve Dallas. It’s fascinating to follow Eve and her way of solving a case. More fun as she recruits most of her detectives to help.

During the Urban Wars, they were a solid resistance force made up of people from all walks of life. They had one purpose, to defeat those who sought to harm innocent lives and bring peace to a world drowning in war. They were The Twelve. Their bond was unbreakable, their trust absolute. But one of them was not what they seemed, a traitor lurked in their midst. After a op gone wrong, the traitor was unmasked, but it was already too late for some of their number. Those left took an oath to always have each other’s backs. Now, over 30 years later, one of The Twelve travels to New York City at the behest of another. For his devotion, he’s brutally murdered and left as a message to the others. Someone is hunting The Twelve and they won’t stop until no one is left. Lt. Eve Dallas catches the case, for the killer has left a message for her too. With the case hitting a little to close to home, Dallas finds herself playing a game of cat and mouse with someone who has spent decades plotting their revenge. Who will win their final battle?

J.D. Robb never disappoints. Bonded in Death is a heart-stopping, exhilarating Eve Dallas adventure. Dallas’ newest case spans decades from the Urban Wars to the present. She must untangle the threads tying the past to the present before a determined killer can strike again and destroy not only The Twelve, but Dallas herself. Robb is a masterful plotter, weaving intricate plot lines throughout her meticulously planned narrative. It’s a complex and fascinating read. Bonded in Death fills in some of the backstory of the Urban Wars, an historical event with mentions throughout the series, as well as some history on a favorite character or two. Robb adds even more layers to an already richly detailed series. The action is fast and furious as the reader is forced to maintain pace with the exceptionally sharp Dallas and her tight knit band of investigators. Bonded in Death is cleanly written, precise, and intriguing. Another win for J.D. Robb and the In Death series.

The 60th book in the In Death series by J.D. Robb (a/k/a Nora Roberts) is here! This series has grown so much, since it was initially conceived as a trilogy. Wow - talk about prolific!

Description:
His passport read Giovanni Rossi. But decades ago, during the Urban Wars, he was part of a small, secret organization called The Twelve. Responding to an urgent summons from an old compatriot, he landed in New York and eased into the waiting car. And died within minutes…

Lieutenant Eve Dallas finds the Rossi case frustrating. She’s got an elderly victim who’d just arrived from Rome; a widow who knows nothing about why he’d left; an as-yet unidentifiable weapon; and zero results on facial recognition. But when she finds a connection to the Urban Wars of the 2020s, she thinks Summerset―fiercely loyal, if somewhat grouchy, major-domo and the man who’d rescued her husband from the Dublin streets―may know something from his stint as a medic in Europe back then.

When Summerset learns of the crime, his shock and grief are clear―because, as he eventually reveals, he himself was one of The Twelve. It’s not a part of his past he likes to revisit. But now he must―not only to assist Eve’s investigation, but because a cryptic message from the killer has boasted that others of The Twelve have also died. Summerset is one of those who remain―and the murderous mission is yet to be fully accomplished…

My Thoughts:
I like this series because it is futuristic and Eve Dallas is a great character. Her instincts are good as well as her investigative skills. The tie-back to the Urban Wars was interesting with The Twelve having such fascinating roles and accomplishments. This was a tough and dangerous investigation and kept me turning the pages. I recommend this book as well as the series to anyone who likes mysteries and suspense.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy.

I'm not sure if the author planned it but this was the perfect book for her 60th! I love the whole idea of getting into the urban wars and the heroes of them. Even if no one knew they were heroes. We know from past books a bit about who and what the urban wars were about but with this one you really get to see the people and how the war affected them.

So much happens within the book yet also so little. I know that's a bit confusing but when you read it, you'll understand more. We don't have a bunch of killing in this story, but the first one just wrecks you. This is a very Summerset forward story. You'll learn so much more about him and understand why he is the way he is. We already know he lost so much but no you also see him as the good man he is.

I loved how Eve and Peabody worked this case, and it was exciting having Summerset, and his friends (family) help work the case. I will say out of all her killers this one made me want to hurt him. Horrible person.

There are some funny moments in the story like all her books that helps break the tension. Humor helps us heal. If you've been reading this series from the beginning and if you haven't why not, then you'll really enjoy this one for all the levels of what's happening. I feel the prior books have been leading up to this one. It shares with us more of Summerset's story and we needed it. We now really know about Alice.

Since this is the only series, I read with continual characters I look so forward to each book and I'm happy when they rock. I am already wondering what comes next. I would say to truly get to know each character you need to read the books in order. Or at least the first ten. Each book has its own ending but there is a deeper back story that runs through many of the books from the characters. Either way you read the series I think you'll enjoy it.

This book is a unique addition to the Eve Dallas series because the villain is identified early and because there are so many possible victims in his crosshairs, including Eve and Roarke’s major domo, the beloved and acerbic Summerset. This is a suspense mystery combined with a thriller since the cat and mouse game includes a lot of former intelligence operatives who are now being stalked by a former colleague. I enjoyed the brilliantly written plot that included a lot of characters, but all of them were introduced and thoroughly developed early in the story. The pace was fast, the wit was sprinkled in liberally and the entire book was a delightful read with non-stop action. Eve’s ability to think through things, with the help of computers and Roarke, are challenged in this story and she is not to be outwitted or taken down by a new killer seeking revenge for an earlier slight. The methodical way that Eve and her team investigate is fascinating and makes for a compelling and absorbing read. The character of Summerset is more developed than in previous books and the readers who have been following the series will be glad to learn more about his heroic past and his love life. All in all, this is one of the best Eve Dallas books that I have ever read and I highly recommend it for all fans as well as new readers of the series.
Disclaimer
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. (Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

🤍Book review 🤍

Bonded in Death
by J. D. Robb


Very grateful to the publisher for my copy through NetGalley, opinions are my own.

Bonded in Death by J.D. Robb is a fantastic addition to the In Death series, delivering a thrilling mix of murder, mystery, and futuristic intrigue. This time, the case hits close to home as Eve Dallas investigates a murder connected to Summerset’s past, uncovering secrets from the Urban Wars.
The story is fast-paced, with strong character dynamics and compelling twists. Eve’s tenacity, Roarke’s brilliance, and Peabody’s humor make for an engaging team, and it’s fascinating to see more of Summerset’s history unfold. The futuristic setting, advanced technology, and intricate plot keep things fresh, even after 60 books.
The writing balances action, suspense, and emotional depth perfectly. The investigation is gripping, the relationships feel real, and the final chapter ties everything together beautifully. If you love crime thrillers with a sci-fi edge, this is a must-read. The In Death series never disappoints, and this book proves it once again why this is my all time favourite series ever.

This case hits close to home for Eve. I absolutely loved learning more about Summerset's past. Wow! It's intriguing from the first page and doesn't let up. Reading a book in this series feels like riding along with old friends. Eve is one of my favorite heroines and I absolutely love Roarke, the ultimate book boyfriend. This one takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster with a perfect conclusion.

The newest In Death book is a fast paced thriller that takes readers where they've probably always hoped to get more info on: the Urban Wars of the 2020s. Eve Dallas' latest victim is an elderly man who, at first glance, has no reason to be dead at all, let alone in the brutal way he was murdered. But when Summerset identifies Eve's victim as an old friend of his- and a former operative during the Wars- everything changes. Because Rossi wasn't the only man identified as having a target on him- just the first on a kill list.

We get all of the good stuff in Bonded. Flashbacks of the Urban Wars, more background than we've ever seen before on Summerset, and an entire network of his comrades coming together to help Eve and the NYPSD to help stop a killer. The pacing stays fast, the dialogue is Robb's go-to blend of sharp wit and suave charm (depending on the character!) that makes for a delightful blend of personalities. The intensity of the story made me not want to put this one down!

A really enjoyable and intense read, this is J. D. Robb at some of her finest.

I received a DRC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

As always these books are over too soon.. I absolutely loved this book and cannot recommend it enough. I am looking forward to thenext book in this series.
Thank you for allowing me to read this title for an honest review..

60 books in, and J.D Robb continues to give us fresh new cases that keep you invested from beginning to end!
We are back with Eve and the gang as they investigate the murder of Giovanni Rossi, a man with a mysterious past, that has everyone stumped. At least until our favorite butler/surrogate father to Roarke Summerset reveals he knew Gio a long time ago and that he was part of a group called the Twelve during the Urban Wars (this is all in the summary)

While I have LOVED every book in this series the ones where we dive deep and learn more about the characters I've come to love are my favorites. In this one we get to learn more about not only the Urban Wars which have always intrigued me when mentioned, but about Summerset and his past before Roarke.

I love how focused Eve is when investigating a case, how she interacts with her team, and how she and Roarke's love shines through whenever they are together. This is an auto-buy series for me and I can't wait to see what kind of case Eve and her team will investigate next!

BONDED IN DEATH is unbelievable the 60th in J.D. Robb’s (aka Nora Roberts) In Death series, which had only been planned as a trilogy. Each offering in the series is still as mind-blowing as the first book – and BONDED IN DEATH is certainly one of the best.

Reviewed by Annetta Sweetko for Fresh Fiction

Complete review: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=89593

The series continues as strong as ever in its 60th adventure. Set in the near future (2060s) NYC Police Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called for a homicide. The body of a man is found dead in an abandoned limousine. Her team quickly learns that the man, in his 70s, came from Italy on short notice and his family doesn’t know why. The story ties back into what is called the Urban Wars of the 2020s. And the victim may have been part of the resistance or a spy.

These stories are procedural novels following Eve as she investigates and talks to witnesses. I love the little updates in technology being slightly in the future. Her husband is there lending support as always. I really enjoy these clever investigative stories. I wish more of the earlier books were available on audio at my public library. Exciting and fast paced and the storytelling or writing is as always top notched.

In this latest installment, Eve Dallas’ new case is one that hit a little too close to home, with secrets reaching deep into Summerset’s past. How many of us J.D. Robb fans have long been curious to learn more about Summerset’s past? Am I right or what! We finally get the chance to uncover some of his secrets.
I enjoyed seeing the homicide division detectives and Jenkinson’s colorful ties. The banter was a delight and Eve’s interaction with Abernathy was fun. Along with my favorite longtime characters, I enjoyed seeing Summerset’s friends. J.D. Robb crafted a careful plot-line, weaving in Summerset’s past seamlessly into the backstory.
As always, I loved the dynamics between Eve and Roarke, with softer, emotional scenes woven in that tug at the heartstrings. I can’t wait for the next release in the In Death series.