Review: Part II of an Intriguing Mystery Suspense
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 1, 2013
*I received these books from the author in exchange for an honest review*Since All the Shiny Things  is a direct continuation of Redwood Violet, I'm going to combine them in this review. I read them back to back, one after the other, so now they're blurred together as one novel in my mind. These novels are both fast-paced, interesting mysteries with a touch of romance and a lot of suspense. I really don't want to give away the plot, so bear with me on this review.Katie Reid is an awesome woman. I can't imagine just what she was going through when she realized that her terrifying nightmares were actually so much more than mere nightmares. It must have been devastating to find out her parents kept a dark secret from her for years. Instead of buckling under the horrendous revelation, she rises to the challenge. She quickly realizes that she can't live with what happened without doing something productive.In her quest for answers, Katie meets Detective Marshall Avery with the SDPD. When she reveals her past to him, he is quick to support her in her search for answers. Marshall is a tenacious detective, giving his cases everything he's got in an attempt to secure justice for the victims. I liked Marshall quite a bit, and would have liked to see his character developed a bit deeper. It doesn't help that he's the stoic, silent type and rarely talks about himself.These novels are plot driven, the pacing keeps the reader turning the pages. I loved the mystery, it's very engaging. The suspense is high as Katie delves into the past. Spencer, the fiancée, comes across as a complete tool. The way he reacted to Katie's trauma was pathetic really. Katie's parents were annoying as well in the way they handled everything. It definitely raises the reader's sympathy level for poor Katie. I wish the romance was deeper and more engaging. In some ways it almost seemed like an afterthought.I recommend Redwood Violet & All the Shiny Things to everyone 16+ that enjoys an engaging mystery suspense. There are references to sexual situations but no graphic scenes. Once you start reading I doubt you'll be able to put them down, so add them to your to-read list!You can find this review and many more at [...]