I challenge anyone to get to book 60 in a series and love it even more with each book. Another home run for Eve and the gang. I loved that this one introduced us to the urban wars OG with Somerset and his comrades in arms. What a great race from start to finish. As ever, Susan Ericksen does the series proud!
*Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the advance copy

This was an especially fun read/listen. The case brought Somerset’s past in the urban wars to the forefront. We got to hear a great deal of background. It was also an interesting case.

**Book Review: *Bonded in Death* by J.D. Robb**

J.D. Robb’s *Bonded in Death* is the latest installment in the *In Death* series, which follows the sharp-witted and determined Lieutenant Eve Dallas as she solves crimes in a futuristic, tech-filled New York City. In this book, Robb delivers a gripping narrative that blends mystery, suspense, and the series' signature emotional depth.

**Synopsis:**
The novel opens with the discovery of a brutal murder that seems to have no clear motive, but the victim’s ties to a shadowy figure in the criminal underworld soon come to light. As Eve Dallas and her husband, Roarke, investigate, they uncover a tangled web of betrayal, obsession, and secrets. At the heart of the mystery is a bond between the victim and a suspect that is as dangerous as it is personal. The investigation pulls Eve into a race against time to prevent further killings while navigating a complex emotional landscape, especially as she works through the implications of this case on her own relationships and past.

**Strong Storytelling:**
Robb’s storytelling is as tight and engaging as ever. She excels at balancing intense, fast-paced action with the more introspective moments that allow readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. Eve’s personal growth continues to be a strong theme, and the way Robb integrates her evolving relationship with Roarke alongside the tense investigation adds a rich layer of complexity to the narrative. The author’s signature blend of procedural investigation, psychological insight, and emotional stakes keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.

The supporting characters, particularly Eve’s team at the NYPSD, continue to shine, each bringing their own unique flavor to the dynamics of the series. The dialogue is sharp, the stakes high, and the pacing near perfect.

**Overall: 4.5/5 Stars**
*Bonded in Death* is a strong addition to the *In Death* series. While it may not be the most groundbreaking entry, it delivers everything fans of the series have come to expect—an intriguing mystery, relatable characters, and a compelling emotional journey. If you're a fan of Robb’s writing and the *In Death* universe, this book won’t disappoint. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy a good blend of crime, drama, and character development.

**Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.**

J.D. Robb continues to write stories that are impossible to put down, and after 60 books I still can't get enough of Dallas & co. I was able to get an early audio edition of this one and Susan Ericksen does an excellent job (as always) narrating the cast of wild characters.

The plot delves into Summerset's past during the Urban Wars and while the killer is revealed early on, it doesn't diminish how action-packed Bonded in Death turned out to be. In fact, I usually end up liking that way of writing more than the standard who-dun-it.

After investing so much time in this series over the years, I am still just as engrossed now as I was at the beginning, and I can honestly say I can't wait for book 61!

Thank you to Macmillan Audio for providing an early edition of this one!

It honestly doesn’t seem possible for the In Death series to have reached 60 books. No, not only reached 60 books but to still have remained as entertaining as this series has. I honestly don’t understand had J.D. Robb (aka Eleanor Marie Robertson) manages to put out so many quality books (especially when you factor in her other pseudonym, Nora Roberts.) The talent and drive she displays leaves me in utter awe. Okay enough gushing…let’s get to the review, which I will keep brief. If you’re new to the series…well you have a lot of catching up to do. That being said, I kind of feel like most of the books can be read as stand alones if you want to and still be fairly well enjoyed with minimal confusion. I have a friend who has read a few at random and has never had any issues. Though personally I of course think you get more out of them if you’ve been reading all along since the beginning. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is back in action, of course, and this time the case has connections leading back to the Urban Wars of 2020’s and Summerset. (Oh did I forget to mention this is a futuristic police series?) As always, it’s a thoroughly engaging story and I enjoyed getting some more backstory on Summerset and Urban Wars. Now another thing I find amazing about this being the 60th book in the series is that once again Susan Ericksen returns to do the audio narration. And if I’m not mistaken she has narrated every one of the books to date. I love when a series sticks to a narrator, especially when it’s an especially talented one like Susan Ericksen. Whether this is your first or your sixtieth time investigating with Eve Dallas, I’m sure it’s an adventure you’ll enjoy. I’d like to thank Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review an advanced audio copy of J.D. Robb’s Bonded in Death.

Bonded in Death is the 60th entry in J. D. Robb’s (Norah Roberts) Eve Dallas series. We’re now past mid-21st-century and 11 of the dozen of spy/heroes of the Urban Wars of the mid-2020’s, who had a close friendship and a strong bond of loyalty to each other, are being threatened and killed. The gist of the story is not a new one, but one that is elevated for readers of the series by the long arc of character development and familiarity with Eve’s husband, a super-wealthy and super-smart Irishman. The story is enhanced greatly by Susan Ericksen‘s narration, who is distinguished by her ability to voice each character in a distinguishable way. Fans of the series will be very happy.

Four decades ago, the Urban Wars marked a period of significant historical upheaval. Detective Eve Dallas’s most recent murder investigation leads her to examine the conflict in Europe in 2026. Summerset, Roarke’s majordomo, is poised to play a pivotal role in Eve’s new case. The murder victim, Giovanni Rossi, is revealed to have been a member of a clandestine group known as The Twelve. Surprisingly, Summerset is also a member of this group, albeit for reasons that remain enigmatic. The group comprises only a select few individuals, and the discovery of a kill list underscores the urgency for Summerset and the remaining members to seek protection under Eve and Roarke’s watchful eyes.

Upon discovering Rossi’s peculiar demise, Eve’s pursuit of his perpetrator intensifies, concurrently with her responsibility to safeguard Summerset and the others. For newcomers to the series, this revelation is undoubtedly shocking. Roarke, Eve’s affluent billionaire husband, possesses expertise in various fields. For several years, Summerset has been employed by Roarke, and Eve, following their marriage. He has played a significant yet discreet role in their lives. This is particularly noteworthy given that Summerset is the individual who ultimately gave Roarke his life and saved him during his youth.

The In Death series, set in the mid-21st century, several decades after the end of the Urban Wars, surprisingly shocks Summerset with Rossi’s demise, yet not entirely in disbelief. The shock he experiences is palpable. In this latest captivating and addictive installment, a substantial portion of the narrative focuses on Summerset, offering readers a glimpse into his early life.

Eve is in a very good place in her life. Loving Roarke and living a life with him is more than she ever imagined for herself. However, Eve has always felt a certain way towards Summerset, even avoiding him whenever possible. Now, Eve finds herself responsible for his life. Her carefully orchestrated life is controlled by rules, or boundaries, that she sets for herself - marriage rules, work rules, friend rules.

My review would be incomplete without acknowledging the exceptional narration provided by Susan Erickson throughout the entire series. Her remarkable ability to capture voices and convey the distinct personalities of each character is unparalleled. With Erickson’s voice acting, it becomes effortlessly apparent that Eve’s witty and sharp remarks, Peabody’s humorous demeanor, Summerset’s reserved nature, and Roarke’s protective instincts are all vividly portrayed. I really sunk into this audiobook, making me utterly crazy about this book, just as I was with every book in this series. Now, to wait for book 61 …

Many thanks to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

J. D. Robb’s Bonded in Death is the latest installment in the beloved In Death series, and it does not disappoint. This gripping tale of loyalty, treachery, and murder is brought to life by the exceptional narration of Susan Ericksen, making it a must-listen for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

The story begins with the mysterious death of Giovanni Rossi, an elderly man who arrives in New York only to be killed minutes after landing. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called to investigate and quickly finds herself entangled in a complex web of secrets dating back to the Urban Wars of the 2020s. Rossi was part of a covert group known as The Twelve, and his murder is just the beginning. As Eve delves deeper, she discovers that other members of The Twelve are being targeted, including Summerset, her husband Roarke’s loyal major-domo. 

Susan Ericksen’s narration is a standout feature of this audiobook. Her ability to capture the essence of each character, from Eve’s determined grit to Summerset’s stoic loyalty, adds depth and dimension to the story. Ericksen’s pacing and delivery keep the tension high, making it difficult to pause the audiobook. 

Robb’s writing is as sharp and engaging as ever. She masterfully weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and character development, creating a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, reflecting the complexities of the characters and their relationships. 

Bonded in Death explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the long shadows cast by past actions. It delves into the impact of war and the bonds formed in its aftermath, as well as the lengths to which individuals will go to protect those they care about.

Bonded in Death is a compelling and expertly crafted addition to the In Death series. J. D. Robb’s storytelling, combined with Susan Ericksen’s outstanding narration, makes this audiobook a must-listen for fans of crime fiction and suspense. The intricate plot, well-developed characters, and emotional depth ensure that it will leave a lasting impression.

J.D. Robb's In Death series reaches a milestone - book number 60! And, like usual, this is another quality entry in this series. I'm actually only up to number 18, but I've been listening to a couple ARC audiobooks. And while these are a series, I think you can pretty much read/listen to these as standalone books. The characters are wonderful and full of life. And if you're worried about these being science fiction, they really aren't. There's just some fun technology used throughout the book, but the story doesn't get bogged down on futuristic details. And since I listened to the audiobook, I have to mention the wonderful narrator for the series, Susan Ericksen. She's been a constant throughout the whole series and that's a huge plus!

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for an ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

This is my first JD Robb book and will not be my last
When Eve Dallas lands a case of poison of an elderly man, it’s more than meets the eye. Espionage, oath sworn at the end of the Urban Wars and a traitor back for revenge.
I loved the audio version, but I am not sure about the narrators voice for Eve. Maybe if I listen to the whole series, I’d fell differently.

Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for this audio ARC.

3.5
I'm just going to throw this out there: What if, and hear me out, the bad guy weren't the perfect embodiment of all things evil that ever were or will be again? What would happen if the character was. I don't know, nuanced? Like, kind of like how people are, you know?

Eve - you never disappoint.
Book Number 60 in this series! I am still hooked!
Finally a look at the urban war - and Summerset's past. Explosive, addictive!
Eve lands a case of poison - an elderly Italian gentleman with an espionage past. And an oath sworn at the end of the Urban Wars. One of them exposed as a traitor back for revenge.

This is the 60th book in the In Death series. I haven’t read any of the other books in the series and it didn’t hinder my understanding or ability to follow the story. I really enjoyed the book and action trying to track down a killer with vendetta to go after 12 people who he feels who wronged him.

This is my first book by J.D. Robb and it will not be my last. Susan Ericksen did an excellent job with the narration.

Thank you to NetGalley & Macmillan Audio for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was a great addition to the series. I really liked the additional background about the Urban Wars other books have referenced, and I really enjoyed the inclusion of people who fought in those wars in the solving of the crimes, helping Dallas with their old skills. The bond between the older characters was endearing and the sense of humour in their banter was fun.

As with all the books - I never get tired of listening to Dallas plan an operation to apprehend the criminals. Susan Ericksen is the regular narrator for this series. She easily moves between characters - each with their own distinct voice style.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of Bonded in Death
This is the first book in the series that I've had and probably a mistake right there, as I didn't have a background for the characters or the story.. This was an audiobook, and the narrator was awful, I didn't like her voice, she always seemed to be yelling or angry, and it turned me off being able to enjoy the book at all

This book was amazing. It is full of suspense and action and wonderful witty banter. The book was impossible to put down. The character dynamics were amazing. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it.

Part ONE::
I just adore this series ~book 60 and still going strong! This adventure features an old, dangerous chapter
and puts our beloved Summerset front and center. The actual adventure will ensure we have a better
understanding of the old family (The 12) who were operatives back in the ‘Urbans’ [The Urban Wars]
and the issue that had some loose ends.
My thanks to St Martins Press via NetGalley for the download of this AUDIO presentation
Part Two:
I am the biggest fan of Narrator Susan Ericksen. She has become part of the fiber of this series. I prefer
the audio presentation because she just makes each character completely alive and so real that the
stories seem to be real and alive in the future.
My thanks to St Martins Press for the download of this book for review purposes.

Wow! Book 60 in the series and still dropping great plots, exciting action, witty banter and superior character development! This series is an audiobook must for me as the narrator helps bring the great characters more fully to life with unique voices and bringing their emotions more fully to life. This book in particular is definitely going on a favorites list in the series as we get an in depth look into Summerset's history. I love how the author helps us get insight into the characters by weaving their story throughout the current case or mystery that has to be solved at the time. This book was particularly exciting with a fast-paced plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I may be guilty of driving 30 miles out of my way to get to the grocery store in order to listen to more of the story as I wasn't ready to stop listening. I highly recommend that you listen to the books in order as they really layer the backstories and depth of characters in each book building more complex characters and backstories. It is a load of entertainment just waiting for you to find if you haven't started reading or listening yet, but if you have started the series then get ready for this book as you won't want to miss it!

Back in the day I used to binge all the popular writers of the 1990’s. But I was never a fan of Nora Roberts. It wasn’t that she wasn’t talented, it just wasn’t for me.

Well I had no idea that JD Robb was her until I came to write this review and boy does that connection make sense! I said to my husband that the book was well written, fast paced and exciting but something just didn’t mesh for me personally. Sort of like not liking Barbara Streisand. Under talented but not enjoyable… to ME!

But the rating should not reflect my personal experience. It really is a 4⭐️ book. It hits all the points of a thriller, great characters, page turner and more. Easily figured out early but that’s ok.

That being said, I received an audio ALC from NetGalley and MacMillian Audio for free which I am grateful and able to write an early review. But unlike the audio I finished earlier today, this was hard to listen to because of the narration. She sounded robotic and painfully slow. Thankfully you can manipulate the rate to make it listenable. Susan Erickson is going on my No No list.

If you’re a JD Robb/ Nora Roberts fan wrote this in your calendar for February 4,2025

I listened to this ARC book. Was happy with the narrator. I was able to distinguish between the characters easily. This is book 60 in the Eve Dallas/Roarke series based in the future. I have not read all of this series but I do enjoy them. Great read but you should probably at least read the first 5 books to get familiar with the characters. This review is my honest opinion. Thank you to the Author, NetGalley, and Macmillan Audio