Come as You Are : Book Review

"Come as You Are" by Laurien Berenson is a captivating mystery that follows the story of Melanie Travis, a single mother and amateur detective, as she delves into a series of murders within the competitive world of dog shows. The book starts off with a bang when two women are found dead at a prestigious dog show, leaving Melanie determined to uncover the truth behind the murders, even if it means putting her own life at risk.

Berenson's mastery of suspense is evident throughout the book. The plot is skillfully crafted, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The writing style is engaging and fluid, allowing readers to easily become immersed in the story. The pacing is perfect, with a mix of high-energy scenes and slower moments that give room for character development and strategic plot-building. The mystery itself is brilliantly concocted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers eagerly turning the pages in anticipation of the truth.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its well-developed and relatable characters. Melanie Travis is a strong and likable protagonist, making it easy for readers to root for her as she unravels the dangerous secrets of the dog show world. The supporting cast is equally well-drawn and adds depth to the story, each character bringing their own unique personality and motives.

Another highlight of "Come as You Are" is Berenson's extensive knowledge of the dog show world. The attention to detail in describing the dog shows, breeds, and training techniques adds an authentic and immersive layer to the story. Readers will feel like they are part of the action, experiencing the excitement and tension of the dog show world firsthand.

In conclusion, "Come as You Are" is a thrilling mystery that will delight fans of the genre and dog lovers alike. With its compelling plot, well-developed characters, and expertly crafted mystery, this book is a must-read. Laurien Berenson showcases her talent for storytelling, delivering an entertaining and suspenseful novel that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end.

What are readers saying?

Laurien Berenson's book "Come as You Are" has received a range of reviews, with readers having different opinions on its merits. The novel follows Melanie Travis as she investigates a murder at her son's private school. Here is a summary of the reviews.

Those who enjoyed the book praised its engaging mystery plot, finding it well-crafted and suspenseful, keeping them guessing until the end. Readers appreciated Berenson's skill in creating intricate twists that kept them hooked.

Many also found the characters interesting and well-developed. They enjoyed getting to know Melanie Travis and admired her strong-willed and determined nature. The supporting characters, including Melanie's family and friends, were relatable and added depth to the story.

However, some reviewers expressed disappointment with the pacing, finding it slow at times with unnecessary details. They felt the story could have been condensed, resulting in a tighter narrative.

Another critique mentioned was the lack of character development for certain individuals, making it difficult to connect with them. Some felt that these characters had shallow motivations, which affected their investment in the story.

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