"The Stiff and the Dead" by Lori Avocato is a captivating mystery novel with a perfect blend of suspense and humor. The story revolves around Pauline Sokol, a nurse who becomes a sleuth after being falsely accused of drug theft. In this installment, Pauline works as a medical examiner's assistant and accidentally stumbles upon a dead body, initiating a dangerous investigation.

Avocato's talent lies in crafting well-developed characters that are relatable and engaging. Pauline Sokol is a strong and witty protagonist who adds a touch of levity to the story with her sarcastic sense of humor. The supporting characters, including her ex-boyfriend Dr. George and quirky roommate Goldie, bring depth and entertainment to the plot.

The plot itself is gripping and fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns. Avocato seamlessly weaves together medical mysteries, romance, and suspense to create an intriguing and entertaining blend. The writing flows smoothly, effortlessly immersing readers in the pages of the book.

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An intriguing mystery unfolds as the dead hold secrets that refuse to be buried.

One of the highlights of "The Stiff and the Dead" is Avocato's ability to incorporate medical details and procedures without overwhelming the reader. Her background as a nurse manifests in the accuracy and authenticity of the medical elements, adding a layer of realism to the story. Fans of medical dramas and crime novels will appreciate this attention to detail.

Overall, "The Stiff and the Dead" is a highly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of mystery and suspense. Avocato's writing style, well-crafted characters, and intricate plot make it a compelling book that is hard to put down. Whether you're a fan of medical thrillers or simply love a captivating mystery, this book is definitely a must-read.

What are readers saying?

"The Stiff and the Dead" by Lori Avocato has elicited a range of responses from readers. While some reviewers appreciated the humor and fast-paced storyline, others found fault with the lack of character development and inconsistent storytelling.

Numerous readers commended the book for its humorous tone and engaging plot. They found the protagonist, Pauline Sokol, a former nurse turned medical insurance fraud investigator, to be a likable and relatable character. The witty banter and comedic moments throughout the book often elicited laughter from these readers. Additionally, the story's fast pace held their interest, making it an enjoyable and quick read.

However, some readers expressed disappointment with the book's lack of character depth. They felt that the characters were underdeveloped and one-dimensional. Furthermore, the storytelling was criticized for its inconsistency and choppiness. Certain reviewers found the plot too predictable, which lessened their overall enjoyment of the book.

One aspect that divided reviewers was the inclusion of a romantic subplot. Some felt that it was unnecessary and detracted from the main storyline. Conversely, others appreciated the romantic element, as it added complexity to the overall narrative.

In summary, "The Stiff and the Dead" by Lori Avocato has received a mixture of positive and negative feedback from readers. While some enjoyed its humor and fast pace, others were let down by the lack of character development and inconsistent storytelling. If you prefer lighthearted mysteries with a touch of humor, this book may be worth exploring. However, if you seek more nuanced characters and tightly woven plots, you might approach this book with caution.

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