Truth. Loyalty. Family.

Not often does an in Death novel bring tears to my eyes, but this one did. Several times.

It wasn’t very long ago that I was thinking about Summerset. He’s been a bit absent since he started keeping time with Vanna. And we hadn’t really really gotten to know her. But that all changed with Bonded in Death. We not only get to know her better, but we meet Summerset’s friends. His true lifetime friend. And learn so much about him, his past, and his life. As I said, lots of heart in this one.

Plus, the plot. Wow! When your past comes back to kill you it’s got to be great to have Eve in the house. Summerset’s nemesis is in New York and trying to get retribution for a life in prison orchestrated by Summerset’s friends, The Twelve. This was a great story, suspenseful, action packed, and over much too quickly.

It’s a keeper for sure.

Wow! Another strong story for the In Death series! This story pulled me in pretty much right from the start. I’ve often wondered about the Urban wars and the role Sommerset played in them. While not all questions were answered, many were. It all starts with a murder of someone from Sommersets past and a note left for Eve. What’s the connection? As the story unfolds we meet many from his past and they play a part in the solving of the crime. Very interesting interactions of all the players. Highly recommend this book. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC of this most excellent read.

How is it possible that this series just keeps getting better?? Sixty installments in and J.D.Robb can write an original crime novel that kept me on the edge of my seat, and even had me shed some tears. I enjoyed the fact that Bonded involved Summerset and his past. I love the relationship between him and Eve, and how it has evolved over the course of this series. Thanks so much to St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of this terrific book. Looking forward to #61.

The dramatic plot line will have you in its grip immediately. The suspense is unparalleled, even though you know the culprit early on. It is filled with colorful characters and vivid imagery that are penned to take the reader into this fictional world as if you are living there.

This is another great story in this series that keep you engaged, interested and invested until the end. This fascinating book will stay with you long after you close your book or Kindle.

Thank you to St. Martins Press and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The 60th book of the "In Death" series just keeps giving us new storylines and fantastic detective work! This was another exceptional book bringing the reader further into the life of Sommerset, Roarke's "jack of all trades" butler. Sommerset's past has been touched on before - but this book shows us his involvement in the Urban Wars and introduces us to his Team of Twelve that worked together as a resistance force during that time. We also learn the heartbreaking story of what happened to his deceased wife. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is pulled into the murder investigation of an Italian citizen who has just arrived in New York, who just happens to have been one of the Twelve. What it leads to is a plot to kill the remaining Twelve, of which Summerset is one. The descriptive introductions to the other members of The Twelve are very in depth, which makes it easy to form a visual of each one. This investigation also pushes Dallas out of her comfort zone as the remaining Twelve are housed at her and Roarke's mansion in order to keep them safe. This in itself makes the reader smile as Dallas throws out her own type of language insults meant to cover her uneasiness, and deep concern for these people. A favorite spot in the book is when Dallas and Roarke have a verbal sparring resulting in the declaration of "marriage rules", that always takes Dallas over the edge in her frustration. The author brings comedic relief into serious situations with the testiness of Dallas, the love/hate relationship between Dallas and Sommerset, and the love of Roarke that centers her. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this advance reader copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #BondedinDeath

How is it possible that there are 60 books in this series? You need not to have read them all but you need to have read some of them to fully appreciate Eve Dallas. I've read a few but still found myself struggling initially. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARc. For her fans.

When an unassuming visitor from Rome is killed in New York shortly after arrival, Lieutenant Eve Dallas is baffled. Furthering her confusion is why her card was left with the body. She never met Giovanni Rossi, nor is his killer’s motive readily apparent. Looking into the victim and the mysterious group called “The Twelve” that has some connection to the Urban Wars of the 2020s, Eve discovers why the killer chose her. Summerset, Eve’s pain in the neck of a majordomo and member of her family (whether either wants to admit it or not), was once one of the Twelve…and he’s now a target.

Bonded in Death takes Eve, Roarke, and company through a journey of the past and I was totally here for it. The Urban Wars have been referenced throughout the series but the events are more central to this story than most others. Summerset was more than a medic in the Urbans and we get to learn of his past, and that of the other members of the Twelve. I loved learning more about Summerset’s past, enjoyed meeting the friends of his who were all a part in fighting for peace. I won’t say too much for fear of spoiling things, but I really liked meeting the remaining members of the Twelve and learning about them and their shared history. It was also nice to shine a light more on Summerset, a character who has been important but in the background for much of the series.

J.D. Robb has a way of drawing me in from the start and not letting go and the latest In Death adventure was no exception. I enjoyed watching Eve and her team work to put together a picture of the person they were hunting while having to protect a group of ex-spies who may be retired but whose skills are still sharp. Robb balanced mystery, suspense, and entertainment extremely well and I hated it whenever I had to put this book down. I recommend at least being familiar with the In Death series before diving into Bonded in Death, but if you know the main cast I think you can safely jump in here. Any time spent with Eve and Roarke is enjoyable and this latest outing should delight fans of the In Death books.

Somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars - I think my expectations were somewhat unmet for this one. I'd expected that we would have some bigger macroplot movement in terms of character development, which I'm not sure happened. Sure, we had some lovely moments between Summerset & Eve that I think were impactful and will hopefully reflect in their relationship going forward, but the case itself was fine but not particularly a standout in the history of the series. I did enjoy this, but it wasn't one to remember (a la the Icove case, etc.)

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and it was like wearing comfy socks and holding hot cocoa while the world is tearing itself apart right outside your window. In more ways than one. The procedural format of this series is compelling- each story is gripping and unfurls a new layer of Eve and Roarke's relationship, but at the end of the book you know you'll get your answers and be able to put the book down with a feeling of satisfaction for a well-told romantic thriller. I reread the books every few years and I already know this book will be added to the roster.

For fans of nora roberts, and we are legion, this book is sure to please! There's adventure and a bit of romance amid some great character movement. One can feel how our main couple has progressed, the way it's a constant compromise but not one that has them fighting about it the way they used to, when things were more precarious, but in a way that tells you they're still rock-solid. It feels right. I love it.

How does one write a review befitting the SIXYTH book in the beloved In Death Series AND do it justice!? Bonded in Death feels easy and fresh. Especially when the main theme is keeping her insufferable and much-loved Summerst safe. I have so much love and respect for the house J.D. Robb has built. What a phenomenal ride and it's not over yet!

The killer wants to draw Lieutenant Eve Dallas's attention to the murder of Rossi Giovanni. The killer is looking for vengeance against a secret group called the Twelve and surprise, surprise, Summerset was once a member of the twelve and is now on the kill list. 
Soon the remaining members of the Twelve are ensconced in Roarke's home and Eve with detective Peabody and the rest of the EDD and Homicide gang is on the job trying to stay one step ahead of the killer and keep the rest of the group alive.
As Eve interviews each member of the twelve trying to gain insights into the mind of the killer who was once one of them, we finally get Summerset's backstory and the heroic way in which his wife Alice died trying to save the rest of her compatriots. 
Get ready for an exciting story with solid police work that enable Eve to stay one step ahead of the killer. I am as always amazed that so many books deep into the story the author can keep readers coming back for more. In fact, I actually went back and read a lot of the books in the series to refresh myself on how some of these characters who are a part of the story now were introduced.

Gobsmacked! Book 60 and I felt like it was book 1, so fresh so new. We get more info on the Urban Wars and find out surprising connections to Feeney, the Captain and Sommerset. We learn so much about Sommerset. My heart hurt, swelled and my emotions ran the gambit. I was glued to this book and did not want to work. As always Eve was masterful and more of her vulnerabilities, her issues with niceties deepened our understanding and love of her. Roarke, well that says it all - Roarke. I feel like I am stumbling and writing gibberish as this book still has me in its thralls. Thank you for the advanced copy, thank you for making my day! I freely share my honest thoughts and opinions. #BondedinDeath #InDeath #JDRobb #StMartinsPress #NetGalley

This is the best Eve Dallas yet. Summerset and Eve are forced to work with each other in this compelling mystery involving Summerset's colleagues from the Urban War. See my complete review at www.reviewingtheevidence.com.

Rating - 4/5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Date Read - December 29, 2024
Publication Date - February 4, 2025

*I received an E-ARC of this book for free in exchange for an honest review* - Thank you @jdrobbauthor, @stmartinspress and @netgalley!

I am excited to say Bonded in Death is my favourite from J. D. Robb so far! I was hooked by the end of the prologue and it held my attention the whole time. I also liked the pacing better than the other books I’ve read in the series. There are many names and codenames but you can refer back to the prologue if you get confused. I was looking forward to getting more of Eve and Roarke but there was a little less banter and not as many cute moments between them compared to the other books. There are many books in this series but you don't need to read the others to follow the story. If you have read the others, it's cool to get background on one of the characters and to see a little change in his relationship with Eve.

If you like mystery, female investigators and spies, you should try Bonded in Death!

Get excited to read Bonded in Death, available February 4! 🎉

*Please check trigger warnings*

J.D. Robb’s Bonded in Death is the sixtieth book in her “In Death” series, but it may be the best in the series. She’s still at the top of her game, bringing Lieutenant Eve Dallas a crime from the past.

When Giovanni Rossi was killed in a limo in New York City, the murderer made one gigantic mistake. He planted a facsimile of Eve Dallas’ business card on the victim. It’s obvious he wanted Dallas on the case for some obscure reason. When Dallas learns the death is personal to her household, she’s determined to track the killer who waited years to murder.

Long before Eve was born, the world went through the Urban Wars, the Urbans. In 2016, the European Urbans were going bad. At the time, The Twelve was an underground unit that fought Dominion and other violent fringe groups during the Urbans. They took an oath to be there for each other. With Giovanni Rossi’s death in New York, The Twelve were down to eight. And, one of those was a medic, the man who eventually took in a young thief, Roarke, who became Dallas’ husband. That man was Summerset, Roarke’s majordomo. And, neither Roarke nor Dallas knew about Summerset’s past. When they learn about his past as one of The Twelve, they’re determined to protect the man who takes care of their home. And, they’re determined to protect the remaining eight from a killer out for revenge.

Bonded in Death is a strong entry in this series. It’s fascinating to read about the Urbans, and to learn more about Summerset’s past. The historical aspect, and the glimpse into the past makes this my favorite in the series.

Bonded in Death by JD Robb is an awesome read. It is incredible to believe that Nora Roberts has written 60 of these books and they continue to be awesomely fabulous! Eve Dallas is a GREAT character who has grown and changed while still maintaining her “badassery” character.

Eve Dallas is a police lieutenant in the New York Police and Security Department. She lives in the future (2060ish) where there are all sorts of new tools and weapons. She is married to Roarke (the hottest man on the planet), who acts as her civilian contractor when needed. She runs her department with lots of great characters, primarily with Peabody. They also have help from other members of the NYPSD like Feeney, McNab, and Dr Mira.

In this novel, we learn more about the Urban Wars and Summersets' role. His background, always closely guarded, comes out as a member of an undercover group. We also met members of his group. The protagonist is a dark figure who simply is slowly built by Eve and her team through their dedication.

The novel is a great read from the first page to the end. I struggled to pause reading it to accomplish the most simple task. The book comes out in the beginning of February where I anticipate so many will want to read. One of the great things about these novels is they can be read as stand-alones.

Bonded in Death by JD Robb is an awesomely good read!

The past proves it's never really gone when someone starts killing members of a secret group active during the Urban Wars. Luckily for the dead, NYPSD'S top murder cop is on the case. Eve Dallas speaks for the dead, and she never stops until the murderer is brought to justice.

I'm astounded, and yet not, that Bonded In Death is book 60 in Robb's In Death series. (Astounded that there are 60 books, but also not as they are so entertaining.) I haven't read all the books in this series yet, but I'm steadily working my way through them. This series is still fresh and interesting with great storylines and excellent characters (Eve and Roarke are goals!). I can't wait to read book 61, Framed In Death.

I highly recommend this book, and the whole series.

Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.

It’s hard to believe that Bonded in Death is the 60th book in the In Death series. I know of no other series currently being written that is so enduring, and that is still going on so strong. One would think these characters would be worn thin by now, but they’re just as vibrant as they were in their earliest days, if not even more so. Some installments are better than others, of course. But even the weakest book in this series is still worth reading for those who have been with it since the beginning. Happily, this 60th novel is a strong one, and a worthy story for such a momentous anniversary.

Bonded in Death digs into the life of Summerset during the Urban Wars, as well as his team, The Twelve, who were covert operatives at the tail end of the war. Nearly forty years later, one of the team has turned traitor and is seeking to kill off the rest of the team. When one of the team falls, the others band together under Eve and Roarke’s roof, as Eve seeks to find this Judas before he can make himself the last man standing.

I loved learning more about Summerset, and seeing him in a different light. The Twelve was a fascinating team, comprised of wildly different people. Their lives and skillsets mixed with their ages brought to mind the movie Red and its sequel. The case itself was tense and compelling and layered, as all the best cases in this series tend to be.

After having read and reviewed so many books in the series, there’s very little I can say about it that I haven’t already said in an earlier review. As always, it’s a joy to catch up with characters who feel like friends, and whose lives seem to real to me after 60 books. Nora’s writing is always incredibly easy to sink into, and her storytelling is always propulsive. I love this series, and will keep reading any new installment she puts out into the world.

I couldn't believe the this is the 60th book in the series. I haven't read them all, but I might work my way through after reading this one. This book contained a great plot and great world building. I thought the mystery was satisfying and the characters were well-fleshed out. I enjoyed learning some backstory too as I'm a little new to this series.

This series started 20 years and yet it is just as fresh and engaging as when it started! The best Eve Dallas books delve into one of our main characters' backstory; in this one, we learn more about Summerset, which will please the long-time reader. For the first-time reader, the writing is smart, sharp and delightful. I enjoyed reading this so much that I almost didn't want the mystery to end. This is a worthy addition to the In Death series.