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Eve Duncan #14
Bonnie
The truth has eluded her for years. . . . Now is she ready to face it?
When Eve Duncan gave birth to her daughter, she experienced a love she never knew existed. Nothing would stand in the way of giving Bonnie a wonderful life---until the unthinkable happened and the seven-year-old vanished into thin air. Eve found herself in the throes of a nightmare from which there was no escape. But a new Eve emerged: a woman who would use her remarkable talent as a forensic sculptor to help others find closure in the face of tragedy. Now with the help of her beloved Joe Quinn and CIA agent Catherine Ling, Eve has come closer than ever to the truth. But the deeper she digs, the more she realizes that Bonnie’s father is a key player in solving this monstrous puzzle. And that Bonnie’s disappearance was not as random as everyone had always believed . . .
373 pages, Hardcover
First published October 18, 2011
393 people are currently reading
4,878 people want to read
About the author
Iris Johansen
291 books7,169 followersIris Johansen is a New York Times bestselling author. She began her writing after her children left home for college. She first achieved success in the early 1980s writing category romances. In 1991, Johansen began writing suspense historical romance novels, starting with the publication of The Wind Dancer. In 1996 Johansen switched genres, turning to crime fiction, with which she has had great success.
She lives in Georgia and is married. Her son, Roy Johansen, is an Edgar Award-winning screenwriter and novelist. Her daughter, Tamara, serves as her research assistant.
IRIS JOHANSEN is The New York Times bestselling author of Night and Day, Hide Away, Shadow Play, Your Next Breath, The Perfect Witness, Live to See Tomorrow, Silencing Eve, Hunting Eve, Taking Eve, Sleep No More, What Doesn't Kill You, Bonnie, Quinn, Eve, Chasing The Night, Eight Days to Live, Blood Game, Deadlock, Dark Summer, Pandora's Daughter, Quicksand, Killer Dreams, On The Run, and more. And with her son, Roy Johansen, she has coauthored Night Watch, The Naked Eye, Sight Unseen, Close Your Eyes, Shadow Zone, Storm Cycle, and Silent Thunder.
http://www.irisjohansen.com
She lives in Georgia and is married. Her son, Roy Johansen, is an Edgar Award-winning screenwriter and novelist. Her daughter, Tamara, serves as her research assistant.
IRIS JOHANSEN is The New York Times bestselling author of Night and Day, Hide Away, Shadow Play, Your Next Breath, The Perfect Witness, Live to See Tomorrow, Silencing Eve, Hunting Eve, Taking Eve, Sleep No More, What Doesn't Kill You, Bonnie, Quinn, Eve, Chasing The Night, Eight Days to Live, Blood Game, Deadlock, Dark Summer, Pandora's Daughter, Quicksand, Killer Dreams, On The Run, and more. And with her son, Roy Johansen, she has coauthored Night Watch, The Naked Eye, Sight Unseen, Close Your Eyes, Shadow Zone, Storm Cycle, and Silent Thunder.
http://www.irisjohansen.com
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August 16, 2017
1.5 stars
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This is the one series that I have read longer than any series, at least a decade. I read all 11 of her Eve Duncan series and when the author announced that she’d be making a final trilogy to fully resolve everything, well, I was ecstatic. The Eve Duncan series chronicles a mother losing her child and never having the closure she needed, never knowing what happened to her, her daughter Bonnie simply disappeared off the face of the Earth. This kick started her career in forensic sculpting and she began helping other families who had lost children bring them home finally. So, this is essentially the conclusion to a 14 book series that I’ve read from the very beginning and loved. I had a lot riding on Iris Johansen being able to pull this off in making it feel the series came full circle and I wasn’t left with any nagging questions. I’m thinking I set the bar too high.
The writing seemed a bit too literal, especially since it’s such a long term series it seemed as if she was writing so that someone could jump into the series at any point and completely understand what was going on. I think people need to just read from the beginning so the author isn’t making statements like this:
”You’ve been trained in police sketching as part of your training, Eve.”
No shit? Trained as part of her training? Redundant much?
Bottom line, the constant repeating of everything that was gone over millions of times already was irritating. And I swear, the last 50 pages from the previous book were pasted at the beginning of this one. I appreciate the refresher but seriously?
The Ending
This is going to be one ginormous spoiler but I HAVE to say it.
I have nothing more to say, but even if I did I don’t feel like wasting my time on this series anymore. It’s over, the big finale has been read after so many years of waiting, and I’m one seriously disappointed reader.
Interested in more of my reviews? Visit my blog!
This is the one series that I have read longer than any series, at least a decade. I read all 11 of her Eve Duncan series and when the author announced that she’d be making a final trilogy to fully resolve everything, well, I was ecstatic. The Eve Duncan series chronicles a mother losing her child and never having the closure she needed, never knowing what happened to her, her daughter Bonnie simply disappeared off the face of the Earth. This kick started her career in forensic sculpting and she began helping other families who had lost children bring them home finally. So, this is essentially the conclusion to a 14 book series that I’ve read from the very beginning and loved. I had a lot riding on Iris Johansen being able to pull this off in making it feel the series came full circle and I wasn’t left with any nagging questions. I’m thinking I set the bar too high.
The writing seemed a bit too literal, especially since it’s such a long term series it seemed as if she was writing so that someone could jump into the series at any point and completely understand what was going on. I think people need to just read from the beginning so the author isn’t making statements like this:
”You’ve been trained in police sketching as part of your training, Eve.”
No shit? Trained as part of her training? Redundant much?
Bottom line, the constant repeating of everything that was gone over millions of times already was irritating. And I swear, the last 50 pages from the previous book were pasted at the beginning of this one. I appreciate the refresher but seriously?
The Ending
This is going to be one ginormous spoiler but I HAVE to say it.
I have nothing more to say, but even if I did I don’t feel like wasting my time on this series anymore. It’s over, the big finale has been read after so many years of waiting, and I’m one seriously disappointed reader.
October 24, 2011
I am not a long-time reader of Johansen's who has read all of the "Eve" books. On the contrary, I bumped into the first book in the series--Eve--when I did one of my periodic keyword searches for "Playaway" books in my library's online catalog. I love these preloaded audio books that are compact enough that they are handy to take on my long runs (or counter the boredom of a treadmill run of any length!). So I listened to the "Eve" narrative without realizing until near the very end that I was only on part one of a trilogy. I was a bit miffed because I was intrigued enough to want to know how the mystery would unravel but not especially impressed with the writing. The characters are not especially well-rounded and sometimes it is hard to distinguish one character's personality from another's. On top of that, Johansen has certain words and phrases she repeats ad nauseum. Characters constantly stiffen. Or they tighten various parts of their bodies--usually their lips, but sometimes their hands on a steering wheel or neck, or their arms around someone's body. Somewhat less often, they moisten their lips, mutter a curse, or twist their lips.
In any event, I was curious to read the resolution of series, so I ordered the next two books in the series from my library (and actually read them in print form). I actually thought that Quinn and Bonnie were somewhat better than Eve and would give them each 2.5 stars if possible. But I don't think they deserve to be rounded up to three.
If you are a long-time reader of the series and would like to find out what happened to Bonnie, I suggest skipping over the first two books in the trilogy and going right into Bonnie. Anything you need to know from the earlier two installments is either summarized or--believe it or not--copied and pasted. Yes, there are a couple of entire scenes that are simply repeated to fill in readers who have not read the first two books.
Some long-time readers of the "Eve" books have complained about the supernatural turn this trilogy has introduced. As noted above, I have not read the earlier books, but it seems they were more grounded in reality. If you are one of these readers who are not pleased with that route, I would suggest maybe sitting out the trilogy altogether and reading up on spoilers instead, since the "supernatural" element is really cranked up in Bonnie. I did have the impression that Johansen was laying the groundwork for future, post-Bonnie-investigation installments in her series.
I have some mixed feelings about the resolution. In case you are worried--yes, you will finally find out how and why Bonnie died. Without giving anything away, I will just say it might be just a little too neat and pretty. But in a way I can also appreciate the sentiment that Johansen was going for, and I imagine her fans might be highly curious about reading future novels with a non-tormented Eve.
And because I'm a little freaky, I kept a tally of some of Johansen's most overused word choices. You might be curious to know that tightening of body parts occurred 22 times; 13 of these tightenings were performed by lips. Stiffening happened 27 times, and on 13 occasions, a character moistened his or her lips (they need to carry lip balm!). Oh, and there was one sentence that I wrote down just because it was such a clunker. On page 47, Catherine says this to Eve: "You've been trained in police sketching as part of your training." Let's see everything that's wrong with that: (1) redundancy (trained as part of your training?); (2) unnatural dialogue; and (3) Eve knows her own background and doesn't need to be told. Why not "Weren't you trained in police sketching?"
In any event, I was curious to read the resolution of series, so I ordered the next two books in the series from my library (and actually read them in print form). I actually thought that Quinn and Bonnie were somewhat better than Eve and would give them each 2.5 stars if possible. But I don't think they deserve to be rounded up to three.
If you are a long-time reader of the series and would like to find out what happened to Bonnie, I suggest skipping over the first two books in the trilogy and going right into Bonnie. Anything you need to know from the earlier two installments is either summarized or--believe it or not--copied and pasted. Yes, there are a couple of entire scenes that are simply repeated to fill in readers who have not read the first two books.
Some long-time readers of the "Eve" books have complained about the supernatural turn this trilogy has introduced. As noted above, I have not read the earlier books, but it seems they were more grounded in reality. If you are one of these readers who are not pleased with that route, I would suggest maybe sitting out the trilogy altogether and reading up on spoilers instead, since the "supernatural" element is really cranked up in Bonnie. I did have the impression that Johansen was laying the groundwork for future, post-Bonnie-investigation installments in her series.
I have some mixed feelings about the resolution. In case you are worried--yes, you will finally find out how and why Bonnie died. Without giving anything away, I will just say it might be just a little too neat and pretty. But in a way I can also appreciate the sentiment that Johansen was going for, and I imagine her fans might be highly curious about reading future novels with a non-tormented Eve.
And because I'm a little freaky, I kept a tally of some of Johansen's most overused word choices. You might be curious to know that tightening of body parts occurred 22 times; 13 of these tightenings were performed by lips. Stiffening happened 27 times, and on 13 occasions, a character moistened his or her lips (they need to carry lip balm!). Oh, and there was one sentence that I wrote down just because it was such a clunker. On page 47, Catherine says this to Eve: "You've been trained in police sketching as part of your training." Let's see everything that's wrong with that: (1) redundancy (trained as part of your training?); (2) unnatural dialogue; and (3) Eve knows her own background and doesn't need to be told. Why not "Weren't you trained in police sketching?"
January 27, 2012
I have to admit, I only read the last couple of books out of a somewhat perverse need to close the loop. I've just found too much repetition: the characters are all the same, they behave in the same patterns, Bonnie has increased appearances to all and sundry, and the absence of anything other than the seemingly impossible search for Bonnie's body just meant there was nothing more to flesh it out. Even the writing style was starting to annoy me, as each character seemed to speak and behave the same way, leading to pages looking more like a test script rather than a novel, where you could just change the names on a line to make it read by another character.
I wish there had been some actual character development over the later books, because there really doesn't seem to have been much change from the first half of the series. They must all be insane, using Franklin's definition of the word, because you get 4 strong, very independent and strong-willed people who are apparently able to work together for a common aim of just one person (and they'll do everything for Eve, despite her narrow focus and tendency to brush everyone else aside in favor of her long-dead daughter) despite having other jobs and responsibilities. The CIA obviously assist in this, probably by now just to make them go away. In the meantime Eve does what she wants, Quinn tries to stop her but ultimately fails, Eve gets into trouble but he doesn't say "I told you so", Ling and Gallo act as heroic backup for either Eve and/or Quinn, and they all work together to move towards the happily ever after. And so it goes on in the next book.
In short, I just wanted to see whodunnit. I did, and I'm glad to have mental closure, but I think this series was drawn out too much. I can't see myself re-reading these. They'd probably make a good TV series though.
I wish there had been some actual character development over the later books, because there really doesn't seem to have been much change from the first half of the series. They must all be insane, using Franklin's definition of the word, because you get 4 strong, very independent and strong-willed people who are apparently able to work together for a common aim of just one person (and they'll do everything for Eve, despite her narrow focus and tendency to brush everyone else aside in favor of her long-dead daughter) despite having other jobs and responsibilities. The CIA obviously assist in this, probably by now just to make them go away. In the meantime Eve does what she wants, Quinn tries to stop her but ultimately fails, Eve gets into trouble but he doesn't say "I told you so", Ling and Gallo act as heroic backup for either Eve and/or Quinn, and they all work together to move towards the happily ever after. And so it goes on in the next book.
In short, I just wanted to see whodunnit. I did, and I'm glad to have mental closure, but I think this series was drawn out too much. I can't see myself re-reading these. They'd probably make a good TV series though.
January 21, 2012
*Rating* 2.5
*Genre* Romance/Mystery/Thriller/Last book in 3 part trilogy
*Review*
*Series Synopsis*
World Renowned forensic sculptor Eve Duncan was a single mother who studied hard to put herself through school in order to give her seven-year-old daughter Bonnie a life she herself never had.
Then the unspeakable happened when Bonnie disappeared without a trace and her body has never been found. Eve painstakingly made her way through numerous possible leads and serial killers to get to the bottom of what really happened on that fateful day and to bring her daughter back home where she belongs.
Eve and Former FBI Special Agent now Atlanta PD Detective Joe Quinn, have worked together since the beginning to find Bonnie often times from the other side of the equation. With the release of this trilogy, Catherine Ling and Bonnie's biological father John Gallo join in the search as well.
With the release of Bonnie, Johansen finally exposes the truth about what happened to Bonnie and who the actual killer was. Now, it’s up to the readers to decide whether or not Johansen was faithful to her series main character Eve Duncan by finally allowing her a moment of finality and peace for once in her life.
*Thoughts*
1. As soon as Johansen mentioned Gallo’s uncle, I had an Ah Hah! Moment of clarity! Of course it had to be someone that Eve knew right? Of course he also had to be a veteran with serious mental health problems who well…let’s not spoil it for others.
2. Joe Quinn should receive a medal for everything that he has been put through not only by Eve, but when things were bleak and there was no hope for any sort of a Bonnie resolution and their relationship suffered because of it. How many times over the course of this series has Eve run into danger after NOT listening to Joe’s warning about staying together?
3. I think one of the most interesting characters in this book was Ben Hudson a gifted 20 year ol who it appears if this series continues, will be a main character, or tertiary character like Jane MacGuire who has all but been forgotten about. Had it not been for Ben and Bonnie’s relationship, Joe would be in deep kimchee yet again.
4. So, where does this leave the relationship between John Gallo and Catherine Ling? Obviously Gallo has alot on his plate right now and Ling has the CIA nipping at her heels.
5. Where does this series go from here? Will it actually continue? I can’t see this series continuing for long if it does, but then again look at the Anita Blake series that should have ended after book 11. One never knows when the wind of change and idiocy comes along.
*Genre* Romance/Mystery/Thriller/Last book in 3 part trilogy
*Review*
*Series Synopsis*
World Renowned forensic sculptor Eve Duncan was a single mother who studied hard to put herself through school in order to give her seven-year-old daughter Bonnie a life she herself never had.
Then the unspeakable happened when Bonnie disappeared without a trace and her body has never been found. Eve painstakingly made her way through numerous possible leads and serial killers to get to the bottom of what really happened on that fateful day and to bring her daughter back home where she belongs.
Eve and Former FBI Special Agent now Atlanta PD Detective Joe Quinn, have worked together since the beginning to find Bonnie often times from the other side of the equation. With the release of this trilogy, Catherine Ling and Bonnie's biological father John Gallo join in the search as well.
With the release of Bonnie, Johansen finally exposes the truth about what happened to Bonnie and who the actual killer was. Now, it’s up to the readers to decide whether or not Johansen was faithful to her series main character Eve Duncan by finally allowing her a moment of finality and peace for once in her life.
*Thoughts*
1. As soon as Johansen mentioned Gallo’s uncle, I had an Ah Hah! Moment of clarity! Of course it had to be someone that Eve knew right? Of course he also had to be a veteran with serious mental health problems who well…let’s not spoil it for others.
2. Joe Quinn should receive a medal for everything that he has been put through not only by Eve, but when things were bleak and there was no hope for any sort of a Bonnie resolution and their relationship suffered because of it. How many times over the course of this series has Eve run into danger after NOT listening to Joe’s warning about staying together?
3. I think one of the most interesting characters in this book was Ben Hudson a gifted 20 year ol who it appears if this series continues, will be a main character, or tertiary character like Jane MacGuire who has all but been forgotten about. Had it not been for Ben and Bonnie’s relationship, Joe would be in deep kimchee yet again.
4. So, where does this leave the relationship between John Gallo and Catherine Ling? Obviously Gallo has alot on his plate right now and Ling has the CIA nipping at her heels.
5. Where does this series go from here? Will it actually continue? I can’t see this series continuing for long if it does, but then again look at the Anita Blake series that should have ended after book 11. One never knows when the wind of change and idiocy comes along.
March 4, 2013
With 100 books under her belt, New York Times bestselling author, Iris Johansen, has delivered top notch suspense year after year, after finally leaving the romance which made her famous. I wasn’t a big fan of her romance, but am a huge fan of her suspense, specifically her Eve Duncan series.
With this latest book, Ms. Johansen finally answers the question plaguing her readers since October of 1998. Who kidnapped and killed Eve Duncan’s daughter, Bonnie.
From the backliner:
The truth has eluded her for years. . . . Now is she ready to face it?
When Eve Duncan gave birth to her daughter, she experienced a love she never knew existed. Nothing would stand in the way of giving Bonnie a wonderful life—until the unthinkable happened and the seven-year-old vanished into thin air. Eve found herself in the throes of a nightmare from which there was no escape. But a new Eve emerged: a woman who would use her remarkable talent as a forensic sculptor to help others find closure in the face of tragedy. Now with the help of her beloved Joe Quinn and CIA agent Catherine Ling, Eve has come closer than ever to the truth. But the deeper she digs, the more she realizes that Bonnie’s father is a key player in solving this monstrous puzzle. And that Bonnie’s disappearance was not as random as everyone had always believed.
In October of 1998 I read the first of the Eve Duncan series. I was completely drawn into Eve’s tragedy and immense courage after marshaling herself and became the world’s leading forensic sculptor. Focusing on missing children, worldwide, Eve identifies missing children while never finding her own. With 14 books in the series, I wondered if Iris Johansen would ever allow Eve, and the readers, to know what had happened to her daughter, Bonnie.
Bonnie brings us the long awaited answer with one unrelenting surprise after another in a well-written, well-crafted story of suspense, fear, and deep heart-wrenching emotion as Eve Duncan, Joe Quinn, and other characters added throughout the series, finally find the answer Eve has long sought, who ripped Bonnie from her life.
Bonnie is a satisfying conclusion to the Eve and Quinn trilogy and a must-buy. I’ve already added it to my home library where it will stay. In fact, it was so good that I am going to start with the very first Eve Duncan book and start reading again, beginning to finish. With my schedule, I should be done by, oh, 2013.
With this latest book, Ms. Johansen finally answers the question plaguing her readers since October of 1998. Who kidnapped and killed Eve Duncan’s daughter, Bonnie.
From the backliner:
The truth has eluded her for years. . . . Now is she ready to face it?
When Eve Duncan gave birth to her daughter, she experienced a love she never knew existed. Nothing would stand in the way of giving Bonnie a wonderful life—until the unthinkable happened and the seven-year-old vanished into thin air. Eve found herself in the throes of a nightmare from which there was no escape. But a new Eve emerged: a woman who would use her remarkable talent as a forensic sculptor to help others find closure in the face of tragedy. Now with the help of her beloved Joe Quinn and CIA agent Catherine Ling, Eve has come closer than ever to the truth. But the deeper she digs, the more she realizes that Bonnie’s father is a key player in solving this monstrous puzzle. And that Bonnie’s disappearance was not as random as everyone had always believed.
In October of 1998 I read the first of the Eve Duncan series. I was completely drawn into Eve’s tragedy and immense courage after marshaling herself and became the world’s leading forensic sculptor. Focusing on missing children, worldwide, Eve identifies missing children while never finding her own. With 14 books in the series, I wondered if Iris Johansen would ever allow Eve, and the readers, to know what had happened to her daughter, Bonnie.
Bonnie brings us the long awaited answer with one unrelenting surprise after another in a well-written, well-crafted story of suspense, fear, and deep heart-wrenching emotion as Eve Duncan, Joe Quinn, and other characters added throughout the series, finally find the answer Eve has long sought, who ripped Bonnie from her life.
Bonnie is a satisfying conclusion to the Eve and Quinn trilogy and a must-buy. I’ve already added it to my home library where it will stay. In fact, it was so good that I am going to start with the very first Eve Duncan book and start reading again, beginning to finish. With my schedule, I should be done by, oh, 2013.
January 18, 2012
Having and keeping Bonnie was the best thing that Eve Duncan ever did. She is the reason Eve worked so hard at school, the reason that Eve's mother cleaned up her act. Seven years later the worst thing that could happen to a family did. Bonnie disappeared without a trace. One minute she was there and the next she was gone. Eve is now a world famous Forensic Sculptor. She manily works with the skulls of children so that she can bring them home to their familes. The time she is not working she spends it trying to find out what happened to her daughter and who took her. She was told that Bonnie's father was killed while in the army but then she finds out that he wasn't. At first they think that he had something to do with it but come to find out his didn't. He joins in the hunt for his daughter's killer. Eve along with her love Detective Joe Quinn, her friend CIA agent Catherine Ling and Bonnies father John Gallo are about to get the answers Eve has been seeking for years. In the past every time they think that they are close to finding the trurh they hit another dead end.
This is the fourteenth installment in Ms Johansen's Eve Duncan series but it is also the third of the trilogy. After all these years of reading this series we finally find out what really happened to Bonnie. The twist and turns this story takes will make it hard to put this book down. You will be glad that Eve has finally found her daughter but sad to see Eve's story end. I have laughed and giggled out loud while reading some books but I can honesty say that this is the first one that I cried. It was hard to keep a dry eye while reading the last few pages. When a story is told in such a way that it draw you in that way, it is a story everyone need to read. I have this complete series and would not trade it for anything.
This is the fourteenth installment in Ms Johansen's Eve Duncan series but it is also the third of the trilogy. After all these years of reading this series we finally find out what really happened to Bonnie. The twist and turns this story takes will make it hard to put this book down. You will be glad that Eve has finally found her daughter but sad to see Eve's story end. I have laughed and giggled out loud while reading some books but I can honesty say that this is the first one that I cried. It was hard to keep a dry eye while reading the last few pages. When a story is told in such a way that it draw you in that way, it is a story everyone need to read. I have this complete series and would not trade it for anything.
August 14, 2012
I was able to get the book from my public library so I could finally find out who killed Bonnie. This is the third book and last book in this trilogy about it. Eve daughter, Bonnie, went missing years and years ago. Eve has never known what happened to her and who killed her. She has been on the search for years and years to find the truth, and this book explains it all.
Overall the book was good, I thought. Lots of action, it had Catherine and Gallo in it but, no Jane. As usual, Joe was his typical self and not wanting help from others and a bit over protective of Eve but, his role was smaller than usual in my opinion and I was a bit annoyed at the end where he was saying that Eve was his and his to protect.
I ended up only giving 4 stars as I was a bit disappointed in the ending.--I mean really? that is Bonnie killer and how she died, I was let down. Part of me wanted her to be alive but, I knew that the story could not go that way since her 'ghost' was seen and heard from so she had to be dead. Even though reading about why/how she died was a disappointment and the killer--one would be hoping that it was someone else even though it I was able to figure it out way before the ending.
I am not sure what Iris Johansen will be writing about next but, I am sure I will be reading it. Maybe one last story where Eve and Joe are not on their former constant search to bring Bonnie home but, about being able to put it to rest and focus on them and their future?
Overall the book was good, I thought. Lots of action, it had Catherine and Gallo in it but, no Jane. As usual, Joe was his typical self and not wanting help from others and a bit over protective of Eve but, his role was smaller than usual in my opinion and I was a bit annoyed at the end where he was saying that Eve was his and his to protect.
I ended up only giving 4 stars as I was a bit disappointed in the ending.--I mean really? that is Bonnie killer and how she died, I was let down. Part of me wanted her to be alive but, I knew that the story could not go that way since her 'ghost' was seen and heard from so she had to be dead. Even though reading about why/how she died was a disappointment and the killer--one would be hoping that it was someone else even though it I was able to figure it out way before the ending.
I am not sure what Iris Johansen will be writing about next but, I am sure I will be reading it. Maybe one last story where Eve and Joe are not on their former constant search to bring Bonnie home but, about being able to put it to rest and focus on them and their future?
October 23, 2011
I was disappointed in this book. It was a little slow and seemed to drag on for no other reason than to make it into a whole book for a three book series. I have read every book in this series. I liked them mostly, but I don't like the way she writes dialouge. Everyone, no matter who they are and where they are from, speaks English perfectly. I was unhappy that a lot of this book was repetitive from previous books. I hate when you are reading a series and the authour tries to explain every thing that has happened in the previous 10 books in this one book so that those who just pick up this book can try ot know what's going on. Ah, well, I am really glad this series is over and will probably not read any Iris Johanssen books for quite a while. I need to finish JD Robb In Death series and then find a new series that I haven't read yet. I enjoy book series.
November 3, 2011
Wow! What a great book! Make sure you have a box of tissues at the end. Loved it! There is still too much left unsaid about Joe and Eve, and Catherine and John for it to be the end of the series.
February 19, 2012
Reading the other reviews here I see that many shared my same feelings. I was terribly disappointed in the ending of this series, and each book of the trilogy got more frustrating for me. Unfortunately, it would have been better off done as 1 final book, although I must say I did enjoy "Eve" and the back story that gave us more information on how Even met Bonnie's father.
The biggest problem I saw with these ending books, as well as several of the books that were a prelude to the trilogy was all the rehashing over and over about why Eve has been obsessed with finding Bonnie. Not once a book, but time after time after time. Okay, we get it. She wanted to find Bonnie. I don't mind dialogue if it is snappy and fresh - I mind it when it is ad nauseum the same conversation 100 different times with only slightly different wording. Killing all this angst would have allowed the compression of the trilogy into one crisper book. It only says to me that Iris Johansen was really tired of writing the Eve Duncan series and was struggling for something to fill 500 pages. Unfortunately it only slowed them down and made them feel like 1,000 pages instead.
I liked the character of Bonnie's father, couldn't stand Catherine and her insistence on "helping" - and the fact that she and Bonnie's father were going to be attracted was more than predictable. She needed to go home and spend time with that son of hers - I mean who finds their kidnapped son after ten years or more then takes off again to help save another child without more time being spent with said child. Then she wonders why they're not reconnecting? Please.
Throughout the entire final book of the trilogy I kept wondering if maybe Bonnie might still be alive, although the fact that Eve was convinced she talked with Bonnie's ghost kept the probability pretty low. However, there could have been some clever way to work that I'm sure. I think the fact that Bonnie's killer was an uncle and it was an accident made some sense, but with so many bad guys in the past who were suspects it was really kind of a "really?" moment.
Overall the series was good, but unfortunately it probably should have been ended about four books earlier to earn an overall great rating.
The biggest problem I saw with these ending books, as well as several of the books that were a prelude to the trilogy was all the rehashing over and over about why Eve has been obsessed with finding Bonnie. Not once a book, but time after time after time. Okay, we get it. She wanted to find Bonnie. I don't mind dialogue if it is snappy and fresh - I mind it when it is ad nauseum the same conversation 100 different times with only slightly different wording. Killing all this angst would have allowed the compression of the trilogy into one crisper book. It only says to me that Iris Johansen was really tired of writing the Eve Duncan series and was struggling for something to fill 500 pages. Unfortunately it only slowed them down and made them feel like 1,000 pages instead.
I liked the character of Bonnie's father, couldn't stand Catherine and her insistence on "helping" - and the fact that she and Bonnie's father were going to be attracted was more than predictable. She needed to go home and spend time with that son of hers - I mean who finds their kidnapped son after ten years or more then takes off again to help save another child without more time being spent with said child. Then she wonders why they're not reconnecting? Please.
Throughout the entire final book of the trilogy I kept wondering if maybe Bonnie might still be alive, although the fact that Eve was convinced she talked with Bonnie's ghost kept the probability pretty low. However, there could have been some clever way to work that I'm sure. I think the fact that Bonnie's killer was an uncle and it was an accident made some sense, but with so many bad guys in the past who were suspects it was really kind of a "really?" moment.
Overall the series was good, but unfortunately it probably should have been ended about four books earlier to earn an overall great rating.
October 12, 2011
Bonnie is the culmination of the trilogy dedicated to the disappearance of Eve Duncan’s daughter Bonnie. It will answer many of the questions that fans of this incredible series have been asking for years and yet we will be left with some unanswered as well.
Years ago a struggling single mother Eve Duncan had one shining light in her life, that was her daughter Bonnie and in an instant that light was extinguished. Eve could have easily given into the darkness that followed and at times she was close, but instead she gave her life to the finding and bringing home of lost children by becoming the worlds best and most sought after forensic sculptor, hoping that one of those lost would be her Bonnie. In the previous two novels we’ve discovered the personal stories of Eve and Joe Quinn, they go back in time to the crime and bring forward the events happening now. In Bonnie the players involved , Eve, Joe, Catherine and John Gallo are closing in on the answers some have been asking for many years and some have just begun to ask. And as we get closer to those answers there are also more players introduced to us to fill in the puzzle pieces left so long ago by Bonnie’s kidnapping. Will Eve finally get the closure she so desperately needs, will Joe be able to protect her like he needs to do, can Catherine fulfill her need to repay Eve for the rescuing of her son Luke and will John Gallo be the villain or is he a victim too. It’s not an easy journey but believe me the it’s worth the trip.
Iris Johansen has been writing about Eve Duncan for many years and in each of those novels we’re given glimpses into the whys and wherefores of what made Eve what she is today, the one thing that never changes is her deep need to find Bonnie and bring her home. Bonnie is one of Ms. Johansen’s brightest lights, it’s a tale for all readers and will not leave a dry eye in the house. Her plot right out of the worst nightmare of any parent is interweaved with covert operators and shadowy figures that makes the thriller fan tingle and her hardboiled narrative fit these characters and this novel like a glove. Her characters are so pragmatic that even the more unlikely are believable, old fans and new alike will relish the intimacy she gives to them and in turn gives to us. Eve, Joe, Catherine and Gallo share equal amounts of stardom in this novel and what it will leave you with is the desire to hurry the clock forward to read what she has in store for them next time. Because if my guess is correct this is not the end but a new beginning.
So if you’re looking for an edge of your seat, action packed, danger filled thriller, look here. If you want great characters and a plot not easily forgotten choose Bonnie.
This does okay as a stand a lone but is meant to be the third of a trilogy and that’s the best way to read them.
Thank you Ms. Johansen for one of the best trilogies I’ve ever read, I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Years ago a struggling single mother Eve Duncan had one shining light in her life, that was her daughter Bonnie and in an instant that light was extinguished. Eve could have easily given into the darkness that followed and at times she was close, but instead she gave her life to the finding and bringing home of lost children by becoming the worlds best and most sought after forensic sculptor, hoping that one of those lost would be her Bonnie. In the previous two novels we’ve discovered the personal stories of Eve and Joe Quinn, they go back in time to the crime and bring forward the events happening now. In Bonnie the players involved , Eve, Joe, Catherine and John Gallo are closing in on the answers some have been asking for many years and some have just begun to ask. And as we get closer to those answers there are also more players introduced to us to fill in the puzzle pieces left so long ago by Bonnie’s kidnapping. Will Eve finally get the closure she so desperately needs, will Joe be able to protect her like he needs to do, can Catherine fulfill her need to repay Eve for the rescuing of her son Luke and will John Gallo be the villain or is he a victim too. It’s not an easy journey but believe me the it’s worth the trip.
Iris Johansen has been writing about Eve Duncan for many years and in each of those novels we’re given glimpses into the whys and wherefores of what made Eve what she is today, the one thing that never changes is her deep need to find Bonnie and bring her home. Bonnie is one of Ms. Johansen’s brightest lights, it’s a tale for all readers and will not leave a dry eye in the house. Her plot right out of the worst nightmare of any parent is interweaved with covert operators and shadowy figures that makes the thriller fan tingle and her hardboiled narrative fit these characters and this novel like a glove. Her characters are so pragmatic that even the more unlikely are believable, old fans and new alike will relish the intimacy she gives to them and in turn gives to us. Eve, Joe, Catherine and Gallo share equal amounts of stardom in this novel and what it will leave you with is the desire to hurry the clock forward to read what she has in store for them next time. Because if my guess is correct this is not the end but a new beginning.
So if you’re looking for an edge of your seat, action packed, danger filled thriller, look here. If you want great characters and a plot not easily forgotten choose Bonnie.
This does okay as a stand a lone but is meant to be the third of a trilogy and that’s the best way to read them.
Thank you Ms. Johansen for one of the best trilogies I’ve ever read, I can’t wait to see what’s next.
November 24, 2011
Let me start out by saying that if you read the synopsis on the cover of this book, it is very, very misleading. It is gripping and you settle down to read a good thriller/suspense/chase book, only to realize that you were the one being taken on a wild chase because the description of this book leads you to believe that a suspect of a kidnapping is truly innocent & that instead the father of the little girl gone missing has a role in her (Bonnie) disappearance.
This my friends, is false advertising, because that's not what this book is about at all. It is a slow moving story with no real climax and nothing to encourage the reader to find out what happens next. They involve too many characters that have nothing to do with the plot, and the author could have afforded to leave out the priest character. I believe that she truly had a unique idea of involving a psychiatrist turned catholic priest who was and is the confidant of the suspected kidnapper (Ted). However, his role was really just "fluff" and most of his involvement could have been omitted from the story. I mean - c'mon - what kind of a a truly devoted Catholic Priest decides to follow the police agents on the move for the kidnapper through the mountainous terrain.... in the meantime, he won't share any pertinent information to helping them find the suspect because he has a "duty to keep things shared confidential"? It was a little too far-fetched for me and his whole hiking-through-the-wilderness seemed that the author was running out of material to keep the story compelling.
I was also a little 'weirded' out by the (SPOILERS) kidnapped daughter (Bonnie) making visits from 'the other side'. She communicated with her mother & father often, yet wouldn't give them any information on what truly happened to her. All the while, once the Mother discovers what has happened to her daughter - her character suddenly shifts from a revenge seeking mother to one who gives off the appearance that she is 'at peace'. It feels as if the mother lost her whole drive & being & purpose of searching for her daughter the last half-a-dozen-or-so years. She just gives up, and therefore the reader wants to give up. Instead I felt like this book wasn't clearly composed & didn't intertwine feelings, stories, and characters very well.
Let me conclude by saying, it truly was a disappointment and the only gripping part of the whole book was how the author wrote up the synopsis to describe her book 'Bonnie.'
This my friends, is false advertising, because that's not what this book is about at all. It is a slow moving story with no real climax and nothing to encourage the reader to find out what happens next. They involve too many characters that have nothing to do with the plot, and the author could have afforded to leave out the priest character. I believe that she truly had a unique idea of involving a psychiatrist turned catholic priest who was and is the confidant of the suspected kidnapper (Ted). However, his role was really just "fluff" and most of his involvement could have been omitted from the story. I mean - c'mon - what kind of a a truly devoted Catholic Priest decides to follow the police agents on the move for the kidnapper through the mountainous terrain.... in the meantime, he won't share any pertinent information to helping them find the suspect because he has a "duty to keep things shared confidential"? It was a little too far-fetched for me and his whole hiking-through-the-wilderness seemed that the author was running out of material to keep the story compelling.
I was also a little 'weirded' out by the (SPOILERS) kidnapped daughter (Bonnie) making visits from 'the other side'. She communicated with her mother & father often, yet wouldn't give them any information on what truly happened to her. All the while, once the Mother discovers what has happened to her daughter - her character suddenly shifts from a revenge seeking mother to one who gives off the appearance that she is 'at peace'. It feels as if the mother lost her whole drive & being & purpose of searching for her daughter the last half-a-dozen-or-so years. She just gives up, and therefore the reader wants to give up. Instead I felt like this book wasn't clearly composed & didn't intertwine feelings, stories, and characters very well.
Let me conclude by saying, it truly was a disappointment and the only gripping part of the whole book was how the author wrote up the synopsis to describe her book 'Bonnie.'
September 11, 2015
So, this is a review for the whole trilogy (Eve, Quinn, Bonnie), even though I'm just putting it here.
I really like the Eve Duncan books. When they're about the forensic sculpting. Or Jane (especially when Mark Treveor is involved. Woot!). HOWEVER, this whole "who killed Bonnie," thing has been stretched out to a ridiculous extent. For the love of...
It's not epic, it's boring.
If you already like these stories, I suggest reading these all together. Get it over with. If you're thinking about starting the series, start with this trilogy: it may save you some frustration, and it won't really ruin the other "who killed Bonnie," story lines.
One last thing, just a minor note about Eve: So annoying. She's right, and will never admit she's wrong. She can do everything better and has the right to make decisions for other people. Gah!
I really like the Eve Duncan books. When they're about the forensic sculpting. Or Jane (especially when Mark Treveor is involved. Woot!). HOWEVER, this whole "who killed Bonnie," thing has been stretched out to a ridiculous extent. For the love of...
It's not epic, it's boring.
If you already like these stories, I suggest reading these all together. Get it over with. If you're thinking about starting the series, start with this trilogy: it may save you some frustration, and it won't really ruin the other "who killed Bonnie," story lines.
One last thing, just a minor note about Eve: So annoying. She's right, and will never admit she's wrong. She can do everything better and has the right to make decisions for other people. Gah!
October 23, 2011
While I'm very happy to know (FINALLY) what happened to Bonnie, I feel somewhat disappointed by this book. There was so much rehash of info so anybody could pick up the book and have it seem like a stand alone story but it didn't work. The last three books (Eve, Quinn and Bonnie) could have been one book and it felt like the publisher was milking the story for more sales before the series ended.
SPOILER ALERT:::
On top of that the ending seemed too tied up in a perfect little bow to make sure that Bonnie wasn't scared and didn't suffer at the end and oops it was just an accident. Come on, how realistic is that? Yes, I'm glad even an imaginary little girl didn't suffer but please...how likely is that? All that heartache for all those years and Eve can suddenly forgive the schizophrenic uncle because the poor man was so tormented and gosh he was only trying to help. I expected more. I gave it 3 stars just because I was glad to have an ending at last but really as a book it was just ok.
SPOILER ALERT:::
On top of that the ending seemed too tied up in a perfect little bow to make sure that Bonnie wasn't scared and didn't suffer at the end and oops it was just an accident. Come on, how realistic is that? Yes, I'm glad even an imaginary little girl didn't suffer but please...how likely is that? All that heartache for all those years and Eve can suddenly forgive the schizophrenic uncle because the poor man was so tormented and gosh he was only trying to help. I expected more. I gave it 3 stars just because I was glad to have an ending at last but really as a book it was just ok.
October 18, 2011
By the third chapter I was completely fed up with the writing and the character development. Unfortunately, this culmination of the "Eve" series was bogged down with implausible situations, villains, and of course a very educated ghost of a seven year old. With so many directions to go for deciding on a killer, the author chose one that made the least sense..but not in a good suspenseful "you got me" way. There were so many laughable twists and turns that, when I was finally completely frustrated, I skipped 200 pages to the end.
October 24, 2011
I don't know why I kept reading Johansen's books. Despite how silly some of her stories are, I kept reading them just to find out what happened next to the characters, but I don't think I ever really cared for Johansen's writing style.
February 16, 2021
Unlike a lot of other people, I liked the ending. I like that Bonnies death was not terribly tragic and in all it gave a sense of peace to Eve and myself. Over all the book somewhat dragged which therefore took me a while to read.
October 18, 2011
Bonnie
Author: Iris Johansen
Reviewed by Fran Lewis
An uneasy feeling alerted Eve that something might happen to her daughter, Bonnie even before it did. A child’s attachment to her mother, her unwillingness to be apart from her and her feelings expressed letting her mother know she loves her but yet something just might be wrong. Looking into the sky and at the stars Bonnie loved learning about the galaxies but something about that evening would haunt Eve Duncan forever. Looking at the stars and telling Bonnie that they are so far away she asked one simple question: Would you be afraid? Both stating that neither would be afraid yet Eve’s uneasiness did not go away nor subside. As the evening progressed Bonnie took her bath, but did not want anyone but Eve to read her a story that night. Although she had school and was studying for an exam, she gave in to her daughter’s wishes. Little did she know that it would be the last time she would read to her and the following day, just going for an ice cream would drastically change everything. How could a child disappear in thin air when going to an ice cream stand? Why didn’t anyone hear her scream or yell? Why didn’t anyone see her?
Fast forward to the present as Eve, Joe, Catherine and John Gallo, Bonnie’s father go in search of a killer. Thomas Jacobs knew he killed Bonnie but was murdered before they could question him. All those involved in any way were killed and silenced. So, why does everyone think that John Gallo knows more than he saying and why does Joe think that he just might be guilty. Catherine Ling is a CIA agent and is really good at what she does. When the director orders that she return from helping Eve, Agent Venable bravely explains why that is not possible. The Director orders him to go and find Catherine, help in any way to expedite matters really not caring if they find Bonnie’s killer just hoping to get Catherine to complete the assignment he needs done. But, the ties between Catherine and Eve are strong and Joe has just recovered from a serious injury and nothing will stop Eve this time from bringing Bonnie home.
As the story continues they find Gallo and Catherine in New Orleans, trek through the fog, the bayou and filthy terrain in order to capture a killer. But this killer is too slick, too fast and is always one step ahead of them even after being wounded by Gallo. Yet, Joe feels that Gallo did not want to really wound this guy, hesitated and could have cost Catherine her life. She disagrees and he does everything in his power to convince her Joe is wrong. So, why does he keep leaving and going out on his own? Just how much of what he says is true and can they really trust him? But, Catherine saw the killer and hopefully with Eve’s help she can recreate a proper sketch of this man’s face. Did Gallo know Bonnie’s killer and did he really dream about Bonnie when he was thrown into a Korean prison? How much of what happened to him is fact and how much is fiction? Bonnie by author Iris Johansen is the final chapter in the trilogy to finally bring Bonnie home.
As Joe goes along with the police and a forensic team to get prints from a truck they stumble upon a murder leading them in a whole new direction. Asking the right questions Joe learns about an alligator farm and the end result is more than anyone expected. Scuba gear stolen the caregiver thrown in as alligator food and the end result is they are no closer to finding the killer until Catherine’s memory triggers a description that sends Eve back in time. As she recognizes the face in the sketch and links it to Gallo’s past she recounts her meeting with this man but still not getting the answers she needs. Gallo disappeared, Joe and the police are working on pushing for the forensics report and Venable is about to show up to take charge of one dead Thomas Jacobs. But, just what is Gallo up to and why did he once again leave when things were just about to heat up between him and Catherine. Is Joe’s assessment right? Is he part of the reason why Bonnie is dead? What will they find out next and will Eve ever bring her home?
Once again author Iris Johansen takes the reader on a huge roller coaster ride with many dips into the murky waters of the New Orleans Bayou, alligator farms, heavy fog to find a killer that does not seem to want to be caught nor can even the best in the field find. Keeping the reader spellbound and hoping to find the answer to the one question in reader’s mind: What really happened to Bonnie and are we going to find out? Will Eve ever have closure? Even if I find out the answer I won’t give it away. You have to read the entire trilogy to find out for yourself.
Things become tense and Eve goes out for some air and Bonnie pays her a short visit one which would enlighten her to the events that might come and would change the complexion of how things are going to play out. Eve decides to strike out on her own with Gallo leaving Joe and Catherine to hopefully follow but at a distance. Bonnie warns Eve about the two levels of her existence and that although she is allowed to come and see her certain information is still blocked and she is coming closer to remembering her killer and what happened. The rest and what happens still remains to be seen.
One man’s mind is haunted by demons and another is trying to find him and the answers to what happened to Bonnie. Leads are coming in but no one can find the killer as he looks for absolution from a priest and yet is he really the one responsible for Bonnie’s death as the plot heats up and the mystery continues. One priest bound by his oath and one man who confesses the truth and has to fight off his demons. As Eve and Gallo close in on one man will Catherine and Joe get there first? As Bonnie slowly reveals some of her past to Eve will the truth ever come out or will it remain inside of Bonnie forever?
Eve gets really close and comes face to face with the man she thinks might have killed Bonnie while he holds someone supposedly dear to him hostage. How this all plays out you won’t believe. What happens to each one is not directly under their own control and will Bonnie enlighten Eve to the truth when she learns it? Catherine, John, Eve and Joe are all on a quest to find the answer to the question haunting Eve for much too long. Is this the end or is there more?
The leads take them to a camp for disadvantaged children. What they learn will send chills down your spine and those working there will hopefully shed some light on the killer and his motive. Wait until you read the twists, turns and surprises that will take you to an ending that you won’t expect. Was the killer found and will Bonnie finally come home? Gripping, tense, unexpected and heartbreaking when Eve comes face to face with the killer, finds out the truth and decisions have to be made and one young girl named Bonnie who touched so many lives and who just might make you smile. What is next for Eve, Joe, Gallo and Catherine? Only the author can decide where to go from here.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Author: Iris Johansen
Reviewed by Fran Lewis
An uneasy feeling alerted Eve that something might happen to her daughter, Bonnie even before it did. A child’s attachment to her mother, her unwillingness to be apart from her and her feelings expressed letting her mother know she loves her but yet something just might be wrong. Looking into the sky and at the stars Bonnie loved learning about the galaxies but something about that evening would haunt Eve Duncan forever. Looking at the stars and telling Bonnie that they are so far away she asked one simple question: Would you be afraid? Both stating that neither would be afraid yet Eve’s uneasiness did not go away nor subside. As the evening progressed Bonnie took her bath, but did not want anyone but Eve to read her a story that night. Although she had school and was studying for an exam, she gave in to her daughter’s wishes. Little did she know that it would be the last time she would read to her and the following day, just going for an ice cream would drastically change everything. How could a child disappear in thin air when going to an ice cream stand? Why didn’t anyone hear her scream or yell? Why didn’t anyone see her?
Fast forward to the present as Eve, Joe, Catherine and John Gallo, Bonnie’s father go in search of a killer. Thomas Jacobs knew he killed Bonnie but was murdered before they could question him. All those involved in any way were killed and silenced. So, why does everyone think that John Gallo knows more than he saying and why does Joe think that he just might be guilty. Catherine Ling is a CIA agent and is really good at what she does. When the director orders that she return from helping Eve, Agent Venable bravely explains why that is not possible. The Director orders him to go and find Catherine, help in any way to expedite matters really not caring if they find Bonnie’s killer just hoping to get Catherine to complete the assignment he needs done. But, the ties between Catherine and Eve are strong and Joe has just recovered from a serious injury and nothing will stop Eve this time from bringing Bonnie home.
As the story continues they find Gallo and Catherine in New Orleans, trek through the fog, the bayou and filthy terrain in order to capture a killer. But this killer is too slick, too fast and is always one step ahead of them even after being wounded by Gallo. Yet, Joe feels that Gallo did not want to really wound this guy, hesitated and could have cost Catherine her life. She disagrees and he does everything in his power to convince her Joe is wrong. So, why does he keep leaving and going out on his own? Just how much of what he says is true and can they really trust him? But, Catherine saw the killer and hopefully with Eve’s help she can recreate a proper sketch of this man’s face. Did Gallo know Bonnie’s killer and did he really dream about Bonnie when he was thrown into a Korean prison? How much of what happened to him is fact and how much is fiction? Bonnie by author Iris Johansen is the final chapter in the trilogy to finally bring Bonnie home.
As Joe goes along with the police and a forensic team to get prints from a truck they stumble upon a murder leading them in a whole new direction. Asking the right questions Joe learns about an alligator farm and the end result is more than anyone expected. Scuba gear stolen the caregiver thrown in as alligator food and the end result is they are no closer to finding the killer until Catherine’s memory triggers a description that sends Eve back in time. As she recognizes the face in the sketch and links it to Gallo’s past she recounts her meeting with this man but still not getting the answers she needs. Gallo disappeared, Joe and the police are working on pushing for the forensics report and Venable is about to show up to take charge of one dead Thomas Jacobs. But, just what is Gallo up to and why did he once again leave when things were just about to heat up between him and Catherine. Is Joe’s assessment right? Is he part of the reason why Bonnie is dead? What will they find out next and will Eve ever bring her home?
Once again author Iris Johansen takes the reader on a huge roller coaster ride with many dips into the murky waters of the New Orleans Bayou, alligator farms, heavy fog to find a killer that does not seem to want to be caught nor can even the best in the field find. Keeping the reader spellbound and hoping to find the answer to the one question in reader’s mind: What really happened to Bonnie and are we going to find out? Will Eve ever have closure? Even if I find out the answer I won’t give it away. You have to read the entire trilogy to find out for yourself.
Things become tense and Eve goes out for some air and Bonnie pays her a short visit one which would enlighten her to the events that might come and would change the complexion of how things are going to play out. Eve decides to strike out on her own with Gallo leaving Joe and Catherine to hopefully follow but at a distance. Bonnie warns Eve about the two levels of her existence and that although she is allowed to come and see her certain information is still blocked and she is coming closer to remembering her killer and what happened. The rest and what happens still remains to be seen.
One man’s mind is haunted by demons and another is trying to find him and the answers to what happened to Bonnie. Leads are coming in but no one can find the killer as he looks for absolution from a priest and yet is he really the one responsible for Bonnie’s death as the plot heats up and the mystery continues. One priest bound by his oath and one man who confesses the truth and has to fight off his demons. As Eve and Gallo close in on one man will Catherine and Joe get there first? As Bonnie slowly reveals some of her past to Eve will the truth ever come out or will it remain inside of Bonnie forever?
Eve gets really close and comes face to face with the man she thinks might have killed Bonnie while he holds someone supposedly dear to him hostage. How this all plays out you won’t believe. What happens to each one is not directly under their own control and will Bonnie enlighten Eve to the truth when she learns it? Catherine, John, Eve and Joe are all on a quest to find the answer to the question haunting Eve for much too long. Is this the end or is there more?
The leads take them to a camp for disadvantaged children. What they learn will send chills down your spine and those working there will hopefully shed some light on the killer and his motive. Wait until you read the twists, turns and surprises that will take you to an ending that you won’t expect. Was the killer found and will Bonnie finally come home? Gripping, tense, unexpected and heartbreaking when Eve comes face to face with the killer, finds out the truth and decisions have to be made and one young girl named Bonnie who touched so many lives and who just might make you smile. What is next for Eve, Joe, Gallo and Catherine? Only the author can decide where to go from here.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
September 27, 2018
The first two books in this series I gave three stars. This was based on the total open endings and zero questions being answered. This final book in the story tied up all the loose ends nicely and answered all the questions I had. The ending almost brought me to tears even (in a good way). If all three of these would have been tied into one long book, then I easily would have given it 4 to 4-1/2 stars without a question. This is one of those where you have to finish them all to get any answers. If you can make it to the end of all the books, they are well worth the read.
September 30, 2024
Very interesting ending to this trilogy. Didn’t quite know what to expect. John Gallo’s Uncle Ted Danner accidentally killed Bonnie by putting her in a trunk on a hot day. He was trying to keep her safe from Paul Black.
I did really very much enjoy the scenery of the “Secret Garden“ that Ted made for Bonnie. I’m happy that it had an overall happy ending. I do wonder what is going to become of John and Catherine Ling. I hope Eve and Joe live a very happy like with Jane and now Ben.
I did really very much enjoy the scenery of the “Secret Garden“ that Ted made for Bonnie. I’m happy that it had an overall happy ending. I do wonder what is going to become of John and Catherine Ling. I hope Eve and Joe live a very happy like with Jane and now Ben.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2018
A real moving book I thoroughly enjoyed.
June 29, 2016
Yep, the third Eve Duncan book I read was the conclusion of the great mystery of Bonnie's disappearance, and I'm definitely glad that I read it sooner rather than later. I didn't have to read through 13 books (dear God) first, the final chapter dragged into a tedious trilogy (although I did eventually read "Eve," too).
"Bonnie" is one of Johansen's books, including those I've read from the Eve Duncan series. In fact, it and "Blood Game" are probably my favorites.
That said, even "Bonnie" had a lot of weaknesses. First of all, the "Eve"/"Quinn"/"Bonnie" trilogy was a blatant marketing ploy, and a dirty trick in my opinion. It's one thing to do a cliffhanger to leave your readers wanting more. It's another to make them trudge through an entire two books, knowing that neither one of them is going to solve the mystery.
Note: The following paragraph contains a small spoiler.
In "Blood Game," we discover that Joe can now see ghosts, including Bonnie. In this book, someone else gets to see Bonnie, too. It's getting kind of ridiculous, and it makes Eve's relationship with Bonnie seem less "special." Bonnie's role grows in this book, and she's even seen comforting a deer as it dies. A deer? Why would a deer have a human comforting it? Shouldn't it have another deer? Aren't there deer ghosts/angels? The whole scene was pretty corny, and it made Bonnie seem even less human than she did before. No child is that perfect, people.
End spoiler.
There's also a character with a disability in this book, and while it's always good to have representation, he's portrayed as what TV Tropes calls "Inspirationally Disadvantaged" (Type C, if you're curious). I'm not at all surprised that Johansen made him "special" (and I don't mean that as a euphemism for "developmental disability." It's more like, he's special because his disability allows him to see/sense things others can't.). I'm sure she thought that this sort of portrayal is progressive. But people with disabilities don't exist for able-bodied people. We deserve to be portrayed as more than just "special." We deserve to be well-rounded, to have strengths and weaknesses and emotions of our own.
In addition, there's yet another "false flag" operation portrayed by an "Arab" government, in one of Ted Danner's flashbacks. There were so many opportunities for Johansen to show that the American government could be just as corrupt, but no, the Big Bads are always Middle Eastern or European. (Almost always--one was Australian.) But at least with Europeans, they're individuals. With Middle Eastern situations, it's implied to be very powerful governmental groups. It's just another example of American exceptionalism in fiction, and it adds to a culture that's already overly xenophobic.
As for the solution to the mystery of Bonnie's disappearance, I know that not everyone's going to accept it. I personally liked it for the sole reason that I didn't expect it. In retrospect, it made sense, and I'm sure plenty of readers guessed it. But it doesn't matter.
Unfortunately, it seems Johansen is still churning out more Eve Duncan books. Bonnie's killer has been found. Don't put Eve through more crap than she's already had to deal with. For God's sake, let the poor woman move on with her life.
"Bonnie" is one of Johansen's books, including those I've read from the Eve Duncan series. In fact, it and "Blood Game" are probably my favorites.
That said, even "Bonnie" had a lot of weaknesses. First of all, the "Eve"/"Quinn"/"Bonnie" trilogy was a blatant marketing ploy, and a dirty trick in my opinion. It's one thing to do a cliffhanger to leave your readers wanting more. It's another to make them trudge through an entire two books, knowing that neither one of them is going to solve the mystery.
Note: The following paragraph contains a small spoiler.
In "Blood Game," we discover that Joe can now see ghosts, including Bonnie. In this book, someone else gets to see Bonnie, too. It's getting kind of ridiculous, and it makes Eve's relationship with Bonnie seem less "special." Bonnie's role grows in this book, and she's even seen comforting a deer as it dies. A deer? Why would a deer have a human comforting it? Shouldn't it have another deer? Aren't there deer ghosts/angels? The whole scene was pretty corny, and it made Bonnie seem even less human than she did before. No child is that perfect, people.
End spoiler.
There's also a character with a disability in this book, and while it's always good to have representation, he's portrayed as what TV Tropes calls "Inspirationally Disadvantaged" (Type C, if you're curious). I'm not at all surprised that Johansen made him "special" (and I don't mean that as a euphemism for "developmental disability." It's more like, he's special because his disability allows him to see/sense things others can't.). I'm sure she thought that this sort of portrayal is progressive. But people with disabilities don't exist for able-bodied people. We deserve to be portrayed as more than just "special." We deserve to be well-rounded, to have strengths and weaknesses and emotions of our own.
In addition, there's yet another "false flag" operation portrayed by an "Arab" government, in one of Ted Danner's flashbacks. There were so many opportunities for Johansen to show that the American government could be just as corrupt, but no, the Big Bads are always Middle Eastern or European. (Almost always--one was Australian.) But at least with Europeans, they're individuals. With Middle Eastern situations, it's implied to be very powerful governmental groups. It's just another example of American exceptionalism in fiction, and it adds to a culture that's already overly xenophobic.
As for the solution to the mystery of Bonnie's disappearance, I know that not everyone's going to accept it. I personally liked it for the sole reason that I didn't expect it. In retrospect, it made sense, and I'm sure plenty of readers guessed it. But it doesn't matter.
Unfortunately, it seems Johansen is still churning out more Eve Duncan books. Bonnie's killer has been found. Don't put Eve through more crap than she's already had to deal with. For God's sake, let the poor woman move on with her life.
February 14, 2012
I will be reviewing this title on my blog in the next few weeks and all I have to say right now is that I cried and cried while I read this book. A good ending to the unanswered questions about Bonnie.
This is my review of all three books in the trilogy- I gave the whole thing 3 1/2 stars.
I found that this author is a bit hit and miss with her books. Some have been great and others have floundered. This was not bad, but it seemed longer than necessary. I would have liked the back story to have progressed just a bit faster. EVE - I think all the love between Eve and Bonnie’s father could have been shorter…we get it they couldn’t keep their hands off of each other…what teenagers can?
The mystery keeps progressing towards finding Bonnie’s killer. I cannot imagine losing a child and not knowing what happen to them. I found that the book Eve had lots of sex...teenagers and the like I guess. The book ends with a cliff hanger so I immediately picked up Quinn. Who wouldn't want to know more about him?
QUINN - It was fun to go back and learn about how they met and what brought the two together, Eve and Quinn seem to have a long lasting type of patient love and I wondered how that came about. This is a great history lesson on the two of them until the action starts. This one also ends with a 'WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT FEELING.' A bit of romance seems to spring between a few characters(Ling and Gallo), but no sex only lots of action than on to Bonnie.
BONNIE - Bonnie keeps the action going with the chase for her killer, I have to say that the ending is bitter-sweet...you do find out what happen and in some ways it is better that it happened that way than how I could have imagined. I loved the end and I cried...for Eve and for Bonnie...even a bit for Quinn and Gallo who never really had the chance to get to know her. I think everyone will have empathy for what the family has gone through with the loss of Bonnie.
I think EVE was interesting, but if could have been shorter and more to the point. QUINN was a bit faster and BONNIE kept me reading to the bitter end. I'm glad I know what happened to Bonnie and now Eve can truly put her to rest.
This is my review of all three books in the trilogy- I gave the whole thing 3 1/2 stars.
I found that this author is a bit hit and miss with her books. Some have been great and others have floundered. This was not bad, but it seemed longer than necessary. I would have liked the back story to have progressed just a bit faster. EVE - I think all the love between Eve and Bonnie’s father could have been shorter…we get it they couldn’t keep their hands off of each other…what teenagers can?
The mystery keeps progressing towards finding Bonnie’s killer. I cannot imagine losing a child and not knowing what happen to them. I found that the book Eve had lots of sex...teenagers and the like I guess. The book ends with a cliff hanger so I immediately picked up Quinn. Who wouldn't want to know more about him?
QUINN - It was fun to go back and learn about how they met and what brought the two together, Eve and Quinn seem to have a long lasting type of patient love and I wondered how that came about. This is a great history lesson on the two of them until the action starts. This one also ends with a 'WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT FEELING.' A bit of romance seems to spring between a few characters(Ling and Gallo), but no sex only lots of action than on to Bonnie.
BONNIE - Bonnie keeps the action going with the chase for her killer, I have to say that the ending is bitter-sweet...you do find out what happen and in some ways it is better that it happened that way than how I could have imagined. I loved the end and I cried...for Eve and for Bonnie...even a bit for Quinn and Gallo who never really had the chance to get to know her. I think everyone will have empathy for what the family has gone through with the loss of Bonnie.
I think EVE was interesting, but if could have been shorter and more to the point. QUINN was a bit faster and BONNIE kept me reading to the bitter end. I'm glad I know what happened to Bonnie and now Eve can truly put her to rest.
July 3, 2013
Bonnie was only seven years old when she disappeared one sunny afternoon. Eve Duncan picked up the pieces of her life and moved on, but she continues to search for her daughter.
Eve Duncan and Joe Quinn have a new lead. CIA agent Catherine Ling feels that she owes something to Eve for helping her locate her own lost son. She's investing all of knowledge and talent into finding Bonnie's body and her killer. Catherine is working with Eve's ex-lover and Bonnie's father, John Gallo and they have a suspect bound and ready to be questioned.
Eve and Joe finally arrive to question him, but they find him dead - stabbed in the heart. They know that who killed him isn't far away, so the four of them make haste to chase him down in the bayou. It's foggy out and hard to see, but they do their best. But when Catherine is almost killed by the dark stranger and Joe sees that John hesitated on throwing his knife, it's obvious that John can't be trusted.
Eve has been visited by her daughter's spirit for years and it helps her feel that sense of loss within herself. But when Bonnie visits Eve and tells her that her father is hurting and needs her, Eve realizes that only she and John can find the answer. Their investigation leads them to John's uncle, Ted Danson, who died years ago. John can't believe that Ted faked his own death and Eve just wants justice, regardless of how much John loved his uncle. But as they get closer to the truth, dark secrets and demons come out of the closet, and Eve must lay her own life on the line to get the answers she seeks.
BONNIE is the thrilling conclusion in Iris Johansen's trilogy. You won't want to miss the first two books, EVE and QUINN, although BONNIE can be read as a standalone. A psychological journey of a killer, alongside the heartbreak of a mother and the nightmares of a father will keep you up late turning the pages, eager to see what really happened to BONNIE. Dark secrets, fast paced action, complex and realistic characters and a mystery to unravel all weave together into a stunning, dramatic thriller. You won't want to miss this one!
Eve Duncan and Joe Quinn have a new lead. CIA agent Catherine Ling feels that she owes something to Eve for helping her locate her own lost son. She's investing all of knowledge and talent into finding Bonnie's body and her killer. Catherine is working with Eve's ex-lover and Bonnie's father, John Gallo and they have a suspect bound and ready to be questioned.
Eve and Joe finally arrive to question him, but they find him dead - stabbed in the heart. They know that who killed him isn't far away, so the four of them make haste to chase him down in the bayou. It's foggy out and hard to see, but they do their best. But when Catherine is almost killed by the dark stranger and Joe sees that John hesitated on throwing his knife, it's obvious that John can't be trusted.
Eve has been visited by her daughter's spirit for years and it helps her feel that sense of loss within herself. But when Bonnie visits Eve and tells her that her father is hurting and needs her, Eve realizes that only she and John can find the answer. Their investigation leads them to John's uncle, Ted Danson, who died years ago. John can't believe that Ted faked his own death and Eve just wants justice, regardless of how much John loved his uncle. But as they get closer to the truth, dark secrets and demons come out of the closet, and Eve must lay her own life on the line to get the answers she seeks.
BONNIE is the thrilling conclusion in Iris Johansen's trilogy. You won't want to miss the first two books, EVE and QUINN, although BONNIE can be read as a standalone. A psychological journey of a killer, alongside the heartbreak of a mother and the nightmares of a father will keep you up late turning the pages, eager to see what really happened to BONNIE. Dark secrets, fast paced action, complex and realistic characters and a mystery to unravel all weave together into a stunning, dramatic thriller. You won't want to miss this one!
May 30, 2014
I've been a fan of the Eve Duncan series for a long time. I liked the search for Bonnie that has spanned over many books and introduced some good mysteries, but I felt like the conclusion to this series was kind of a let down. I wanted more. I wanted to be wowed and surprised. I wanted to feel something... anything really.
I was able to figure out the "mystery" of what happened to Bonnie within a few short pages. I like to delve into books. In mysteries I crave action, danger, and puzzles. This book was lacking all those elements. This may sound weird, but I wanted Eve to be put into "actual" danger. I always start and finish these books thinking that no harm will ever befall the beloved Eve... but I always start the book with this hope that maybe something could actually happen to her. I don't want the main characters of books to come across as invincible. It bothers me, I feel like it takes away from the believability of the story.
With this book I wanted something to come along and shatter the Joe/Eve relationship. I think it is redundant and it needs to come to an end. I felt with reading the three books in this series that Eve was more suited for John Gallo. I was hoping and hoping this tragedy would bring them together.. but nope. I am still stuck with Eve and Joe. Also Catherine Ling annoyed me throughout this book. I feel like she is better suited for Joe.
For the last book in the search for Bonnie I wanted a different outcome. I was let down with the way the book ended. It was predictable and tame. When I reached the end I was like That's it?? That's what I have been reading for?? Was it me or could everyone see the ghost of Bonnie?? I was okay with Eve seeing her and with Joe being saved by her, but I felt as though everyone and their brother could see Bonnie in this book.
It was an okay book. I was hoping for more, in that sense I felt let down. But other that it was an okay read.
I was able to figure out the "mystery" of what happened to Bonnie within a few short pages. I like to delve into books. In mysteries I crave action, danger, and puzzles. This book was lacking all those elements. This may sound weird, but I wanted Eve to be put into "actual" danger. I always start and finish these books thinking that no harm will ever befall the beloved Eve... but I always start the book with this hope that maybe something could actually happen to her. I don't want the main characters of books to come across as invincible. It bothers me, I feel like it takes away from the believability of the story.
With this book I wanted something to come along and shatter the Joe/Eve relationship. I think it is redundant and it needs to come to an end. I felt with reading the three books in this series that Eve was more suited for John Gallo. I was hoping and hoping this tragedy would bring them together.. but nope. I am still stuck with Eve and Joe. Also Catherine Ling annoyed me throughout this book. I feel like she is better suited for Joe.
For the last book in the search for Bonnie I wanted a different outcome. I was let down with the way the book ended. It was predictable and tame. When I reached the end I was like That's it?? That's what I have been reading for?? Was it me or could everyone see the ghost of Bonnie?? I was okay with Eve seeing her and with Joe being saved by her, but I felt as though everyone and their brother could see Bonnie in this book.
It was an okay book. I was hoping for more, in that sense I felt let down. But other that it was an okay read.
January 2, 2012
FINALLY! We know what happened to Bonnie. It was quite anticlimatic for me. How about for you? It was rather so sad for me and I thought, geesh, just end it. This dragging out so long is just tortuous for all of us.
Bonnie makes more appearances in this story to help aide the ones she loves. I still feel badly for Quinn. He's still being dragged through hell with Eve. This story didn't add anything to the characters for me. There wasn't any new building or strengthening of relationships. Did I guess the killer? Yes, within the first two chapters of the book I knew. Did I know why he did it? Nope. The answer will leave you going, F!!! It did for me. Still, now I have to look up Providence in Georgia just to see if it is real.
Catherine is back as well as John Gallo. I want to know if they ever hook up. I think it would work out nicely. I like both of them. Although, John does have psychological problems... not the best to have around a traumatized child.
I don't have the best of review for this book because I just liked it since it felt like a final chapter and end to this series. Whether or not that is true, I don't know. But at least Eve can FINALLY move on.
Bonnie makes more appearances in this story to help aide the ones she loves. I still feel badly for Quinn. He's still being dragged through hell with Eve. This story didn't add anything to the characters for me. There wasn't any new building or strengthening of relationships. Did I guess the killer? Yes, within the first two chapters of the book I knew. Did I know why he did it? Nope. The answer will leave you going, F!!! It did for me. Still, now I have to look up Providence in Georgia just to see if it is real.
Catherine is back as well as John Gallo. I want to know if they ever hook up. I think it would work out nicely. I like both of them. Although, John does have psychological problems... not the best to have around a traumatized child.
I don't have the best of review for this book because I just liked it since it felt like a final chapter and end to this series. Whether or not that is true, I don't know. But at least Eve can FINALLY move on.
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October 20, 2011I don't know how to rate this book! It was too much and not enough all of it! It could have been and should have been better. This book should have left me breathless, understanding, feeling, overwhelmed, and overjoyed! Eve was going to finally find Bonnie and bring her baby home!!! Instead I am still asking questions because I predicted the outcome in Quinn! And it is the WRONG KILLER! It was too easy! I have never written a negative review and I have been disappointed by other authors in the past because they rushed through and you could tell they were either being lazy or had a deadline to meet. I don’t feel like this was a rush job But, maybe over thought? Not enough answers or maybe the wrong answers? Maybe there should have been an Eve, Gallo, Quinn then Bonnie? I am not sure which is why I am not going to rate this book. There was absolutely too much suffering on every single person's part everyone in Bonnie suffered. No I did not get closure… Pity, Bonnie, should have been the icing on the cake.
November 13, 2011
After more than two dozen books Eve and the rest of us can finally bring Bonnie home. Although I don't believe that Eve/Quinn/Bonnie ever should have been its own arc within an arc, if a new reader only reads these three books they will have a good idea of what the twenty five books were all about. At first, I thought everyone was acting out of character, dialogue was stilted and just plain wrong. But then the story got rolling. In many ways this story took a tack I've seen in other stories, where the ghost, in this case Bonnie, is there for many purposes, mostly to grant forgiveness. Bonnie's death, as horrifying as it was, turned out to be less horrifying than if she had been murdered by a serial killer. It was another book, fitting to have read over veterans day, that cries out for the plight of veterans who come back from war changed in ways that the rest of us can't understand. I know that the next book is about Catherine but I was happy with this ending and would love Johansen to create another world for us to lose another decade or so getting entangled in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2011
Wow! I am a little ambivalent about this book, having invested so many years rapidly devouring each installment as it was published and becoming attached to so many of the characters. The trilogy that ties up the loose ends for the saga started so many years ago is in some ways a bit of a letdown and in other ways a relief. Eve's intensity can be wearing and her gut-wrenching search for her daughter over so many years has provided so much tension that it is nice to achieve closure. The tormented characters that Eve has interacted with during her search provide a unique flavor for the series and there are several startling revelations supplied in this tale. I was a little surprised that Jane does not play much of a role in this story arc but there were plenty of intriguing secondary characters adding nice depth to the narration. It is great to finally get closure although the explanations provided may not be to everyone's taste. Another masterful chapter in the Eve Duncan saga.
November 18, 2012
I have to admit I have been an Eve Duncun fan from the beginning.. Iris Johansen writes in a way that you as the reader are drawn in... This book made me cry.. not sure if it was because of the story line or the fact that I assumed it was the last in the Eve Duncan Series.
I loved it from beginning to end.. the way Eve found out how and where and why her daughter was murdered was just beautifully written.. all this time we were lead as she was that she was brutally murdered.. and when in fact it was not..
I am not sure I could write a review for every book... I have loved and enjoyed every book from the very beginning.. there are a few more characters I would like to see in more of her books and now that there is another Eve Duncan book out... (Thank you Iris) really am excited about that piece of news.
If you like forensics, suspense, romance you need to read this series... it has it all and they are awesome.
I loved it from beginning to end.. the way Eve found out how and where and why her daughter was murdered was just beautifully written.. all this time we were lead as she was that she was brutally murdered.. and when in fact it was not..
I am not sure I could write a review for every book... I have loved and enjoyed every book from the very beginning.. there are a few more characters I would like to see in more of her books and now that there is another Eve Duncan book out... (Thank you Iris) really am excited about that piece of news.
If you like forensics, suspense, romance you need to read this series... it has it all and they are awesome.
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