the setup…
Homicide Detective Jane Rizzoli and her partner Detective Barry Frost are called to the home of critical care nurse Sofia Suarez whose murder was discovered by her neighbor. Sofia’s husband had recently died and it appeared she’d returned home and interrupted a robbery. But something about it seems off and when Jane later learns of some odd inquiries Sofia made in recent weeks, it leads her to an unsolved murder that was committed nineteen years ago in Maine. Meanwhile, Angela Rizzoli, Jane’s mother, is concerned about some mysterious new neighbors who have moved in across the street. She’s made it her business to know everything going on in her neighborhood and these people won’t let her in. Sometimes being a nosy neighbor can be helpful…and sometimes it can get you into trouble.
the heart of the story…
It’s been five years since the last book was released in this series so it was great to be back in Boston. But this time, a majority of the focus is on Angela and her neighbors. Every neighborhood has an Angela but she is particularly good at noticing abnormalities in patterns and behaviors. I could certainly see where Jane developed her curiosity as she doesn’t fall far from this tree. There were times when Angela’s behavior seemed close to being outrageous but I couldn’t ignore having the same concerns she felt. Jane’s case was puzzling and I had as tough a time figuring out the connection to that cold case as she did. I knew all of these things would make sense at some point and I was doggedly as determined as Jane to unearth the answers.
the narration…
I’m a fan of the narrator and she was particularly great at capturing the spirit of Angela Rizzoli who had the biggest voice in this story. The scenes with Jane and Angela were the most fun and Eby nailed the dynamics. I’m so glad I opted to listen as she made these scenes special.
the bottom line…
I thought I had things figured out but this really delivered a twisty ending, though I at least was right on the who. It was a nice change of pace to learn more about Angela as she and Jane haven’t always had the best of relationships. Angela’s instincts served her well, even though it got her into some serious trouble but also helped save her. Maura Isles had a limited role here but she did play a significant part in solving the mystery. It was great to see this series return after the long hiatus and I highly enjoyed this unusual case that, in the end, needed Angela’s help to solve.
Book Info
- Release Date: July 5, 2022
- Series: Rizzoli & Isles #13
- Narrator: Tanya Eby
- Audio Length: 7 hours, 49 minutes
- Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Listen to a Sample!
Goodreads | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Audible
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Blue Mood Café 
I like the sound of Angela as well Jo! 💜 Fantastic review!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Nicki💜 She was a lot of fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great review, Jonetta. 🙂 I am yet to read the books, but I have watched some of the episodes and I loved them. Hope to read them soon.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Debjani💜 Though the books and the series have a different vibe, the relationship between Jane and Angela are pretty consistent. This was nice.
LikeLike
I have always wanted to read this series. I have on my series to read list so hopefully I can get to it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s a great series, Anne. After a rocky start (the first book wasn’t written intending for it to be a series featuring Jane), it got better with each book.
LikeLike
I’ve never read a Tess Gerritsen book though I really think I’d enjoy them. I know that this one sounds wonderful. I do love a twisty ending! Excellent review!
LikeLike
Thanks, Tessa💜 She has standalones in addition to the series. I’ve read a couple but this is where my heart is with her writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, after such a long hiatus, it must be so relieving to see how twisty and great this turned out to be! Great review, Jonetta. 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Lashaan💜 We were quite surprised when this was released as we thought the author had decided to let it go.
LikeLiked by 1 person
One day I will actually start this series… I’m glad to hear you are still enjoying it! Fab review. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Yvo💜 It will be there and still good. It doesn’t feel dated.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh yay, I had no idea we were getting another R&I book. I haven’t read one since I started blogging but will definitely have to get this one.
LikeLike
My dad is a huge fan of the tv show. I’ve never read any of her books. I used to have The Surgeon on my shelf but sent it off to the charity shop when I realised I’d never catch up on this series anyway 😳.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The books and the TV show were similar the first season. After that, they went their separate ways. I liked both, though.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My dad, not a reader at all, apparently just bought this one and is enjoying it. Nearly fell off my chair. 😄
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow! I must admit, this story is more like the TV series in tone. But still…that’s a big deal💜
LikeLiked by 1 person
I adored this series when it ws on TV, and this sounds like a great spot to pick up the series — Angela was just so adorable!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Events in the book are much different than the TV series but I think you’ll be okay. The tone is very similar.
LikeLike
I have been a big fan of this series since the first book, many years ago. I like when we learn about those characters that have been in the background and this sounds really good. I have been holding out for the audiobook, but my library still hasn’t got a copy, so I think I will just read this one. Great review Jo, you definitely piqued my interest.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Carla💜 If you’re a fan of the series, you’re really going to enjoy this story.
LikeLiked by 1 person