It’s finally here! Random in Death is on sale today. And this is the place to discuss all things about the book.
Once again, here’s the description:
First though, the official description:
Jenna’s parents had finally given in! Here she was, at a New York club with her best friends, watching the legendary band Avenue A, carrying her demo in hopes of slipping it to the guitarist, Jake Kincade. Then, from the stage, Jake catches her eye, and smiles. It’s the best night of her life. It’s the last night of her life.
Minutes later, Jake’s in the alley getting some fresh air, and the girl from the dance floor comes stumbling out, sick and confused and deathly pale. He tries to help, but it’s no use. He doesn’t know that someone in the crowd has jabbed her with a needle—and when his girlfriend Nadine arrives, she knows the only thing left to do for the girl is call her friend, Eve Dallas.
Lab results show a toxic mix of substances in the victim’s body—and for an extra touch of viciousness, the needle was teeming with infectious agents. Dallas searches for a pattern, but there are no obvious clues why this levelheaded 16-year-old, passionate about her music, would be targeted.
And that worries Eve. Because if Jenna wasn’t targeted, if she was just the random, unlucky victim of a madman consumed by hatred, there are likely more deaths to come.
Did you enjoy Random in Death? Did you find any of the teasers from the last post?
Share in the comments! As always, spoilers will be ahead.
Laura
Just started it at 0500. I’m hooked already, but work caused a listening stoppage. Can’t wait to get back to it at lunch. 😷
So excited it’s a icy day here in Mi time to read
West MI reader here. Just picked up a copy from the library at noon but had to finish another book first. Got about 100 pages in. Will finish tomorrow.
Received it at midnight and began reading. Only on chapter 3 but wow
Couldn’t wait to have it downloaded! Started it early this morning, in the dark, on my phone! I had finished all the books and had begun my rereads from the beginning and just finished #12. All just as wonderful 2nd time around! Thank you, many times over!
I woke up at 2, could not go back to sleep, starting reading. It is a great book, it’s always good to read “my old friends”- well Dallas’ friends, but after all the books and the multiple rereads, my friends now. There is so much I love about this book. I finished it about 7:30-8
Spending this wet grey morning listening! I’m on Chapter 3 currently and, as usual, was hooked from the beginning!
Loved “Boss girl cop” and “PIP”
I just finished reading the book. I really loved it. So many familiar characters in this one. I felt really sorry for the victims. I really think I am going to do the reread very soon. Next week probably. I always read too fast the first time and miss things. I am grateful that this series is still going on. The people in the books feel like friends I get to visit. You don’t get tired learning more about your friends.
Loved that there were so many of the characters we’ve come yo love in this one.
Just got it downloaded, it wasn’t available until later in the day for me, but to be fair, I am currently in Thailand, EXCITED to start it tomorrow.
I Just sat down to relax & start reading it! I’m sure it will be wonderful like all the other books!
Jamie and Quilla!
I found some, but I don’t think all, of the teasers.
Just started it and on Chapter 4. Already loving it!
I’ve been re-reading the series to get ready for this book, only got to #35 Delusion in Death so now I’m going to do something I don’t usually ever do. While I’m finishing up number 35 in hardback I’m going to be reading #58 on kindle. Just started reading it and I’m already anxious to see what happens next.
Holding it for the weekend so I can binge without interruption. Work just gets in the way of my reading time. Can’t wait!
Still reading but I’ve got questions! First, isn’t Jamie and quilla together a bit… weird? I mean, isn’t she like super under 18 and isn’t he 18/19? Is that ok?!??? Second: there’s a conversation about the “first time” and Roarke mentions when he’s around 15. Wasn’t this discussed a while back (after portrait) and he’d said he‘d lost his virginity at 13 and eve asked if that was 13 before he found out his real birth year or was he actually 12 and he got very uncomfortable about it. Am I remembering incorrectly?
I see Quilla as around 15-16.
I don’t remember the conversation, but maybe Roarke was talking about his first relationship rather than just sex.
You are remembering correctly and Eve said she did it at about 16 just to see what all the fuss was about. Here she says it wasn’t until the academy. You are also right about Quilla, she is 14-15 and Jamie is about 19. Surprised to see them as sort of dating when that idea had been vetoed before.
I thought the same thing but with a series this size it’s bound to happen. She has an amazing editorial team but they can’t catch everything. Still enjoyed the book though.
You remember correctly. I found the same glitch. I re-listen to the entire series every time a new book is coming out. Almost have it memorized. The only problem I have is remembering what happened in which book. I love inhabiting Roarke and Dallas world for a few weeks twice a year. Nora’s character development in this series is masterful. I am in awe.
I’m glad I’m not the only one that can’t always remember what books certain events happen in! But to be fair there are 58 books now so being able to remember what event happened in what book is almost impossible unless you have an photographic memory.
I was thinking the same thing about Roarke.
I also picked up on the “first time ” remark and agree with you ! Having just re-read the book in question , loved random in Death though ! Last two books have been terrific !
I had the same thoughts on the Jamie/Quilla age thing, especially since Eve had even said to him “she’s too young for you” in another book. But you’ll read later on that Quilla kind of addresses this herself in a way that made total sense to me. Also I agree that Eve and Roarke had the “first time” talk in an earlier book. I’m reading back to find it again. I think it was something like 17 for Eve but only to see what the big deal was all about and yes for Roarke he lost it a year earlier than the thought. But I thought he ended up actually losing it at 13, but he thought he was 14. Not really a huge deal in the grand scheme of these amazing books but I was really glad someone else noticed it so I knew I wasn’t totally losing my mind!
When we first meet her she’s 15. She’s close to 17 now, if not there.
We meet Quilla in Concealed — and while it came out in 2014 our time — it was early December 2060 in the book. The series is currently in early summer of 2061.
Laura
Yes, I noticed that too. It’s early in Concealed in Death where he mentions to Eve it was when he was 14 and she asks if he accounted for his actually age and they realize it was 13 🙂
Got a copy of Random in Death from my library today – one thing about getting the library version is it’s so wrapped up in cello wrap that you can’t see the special poster, so thanks to a member of a FaceBook In Death Fan group for showing it in her post. A thought occurred to me as I started reading and watching for clues about who did it and why – does anyone know if Nora has spoken about her method – does she know who did it and why before she starts writing? If so, has it every changed as she writes?
I do know who did it all along. The motive(s) may become more clear as I learn more about the character, Depends. I can’t remember the bad guy ever changing, but I’ve written a lot of books so it may have happened at some point.
I started Random this morning. I can’t believe I finished it already!
A great read- hard to put down-.
I’m sad it has ended.
I can’t wait for the next book!
I really liked the little call backs to characters in other books, Quilla, Det. Strong, Dorian, Mouser, & Sp Agent Teasdale, they’re just enough mention to know they’re doing ok.
I always hope there will be a story with some of the clones, like Diana Rodriques, the Deena clone/daughter. She’s another smart one that I’d see working for Roarke Industries at some point
I see Quilla as quite mature for her years, due to her circumstances & the fact she’s around Nadine all the time. Plus they can just be “hanging out,” Jaime is a stand up, smart guy to be around.
I have started listening to the book on Audible. Love it!
I enjoyed the story but for me it ended very abruptly. I’d also like to know more about the songs Avenue A records that were Jenna’s.
It’s a continuing series, and that element will likely be mentioned again. As recording and producing music takes considerable time and work, there wasn’t room to expand on that element in this book.
It’s not possible to give every reader what those individual readers want in every book. The story needs to end, and I hope to end it on a satisfying note–but that can’t and doesn’t satisfy all.
I liked the ending–a bit of a description of that marvelous island, all their own, no one else there. Sounds a bit like home when Summerset isn’t there…(grinning!) And I love seeing Eve suggesting they get away for a bit; used to be she fought him every time he suggested it; and yeah, they were both tired this time, with reason!
Eve has suggested several times now that they get away.
This! Though usually it is Roarke who suggests going away. I am seeing her suggesting it more and more which is exciting. She is seeing and realizing that she needs to step back from her job from time to time as it makes her a better cop, boss, and person. She even says this in the first chapter we see her in this book which I believe is the first time we read of her acknowledging this. I could be wrong about that but after 58 book’s things get forgotten.
I could absolutely envision the description of the island, the blue of the water and the tropical heat. I actually closed my eyes to “see” it! Nora’s descriptions are amazing! Hence an Excellent writer!
Totally understand. I’ve already pre-ordered the next. I’m still going to read it. 🩷
I enjoy this discussion a lot more then the FB group Addicted to In Death. It has to be a different process to write your “stand alone and trilogies” then to fall back into the In Death world. It’s is all good and we respect what you do.
I had to pop over here to say I’m not quite halfway into this one and have already caught myself using ‘Dooser’ out loud—AND having to explain to That Husband o’ Mine LOL! Oh don’t worry, it wasn’t directed at him 😉
Do thank our JD for me!
~
I started it last night and was just going to read a few chapters then before I knew it I finished the book around 12:30am. Loved how Bella “sings “ a lullaby to Dallas. So cute!!
Well, I was finishing another book on Tuesday, so started it as soon as that was done. stayed up until 0100 and had to give up…woke up at 0600 (a lousy 5 hours later) and finished it a few hours later. Always enjoy visiting this world and all its characters….I love how the characters grow and the friendships and interactions get deeper. May I just say…..Morris laying his hand on a forehead ..in the morgue, while talking to Eve….so beautiful.
Just read Nora’s News, & she included the US & UK covers for Random ID. I have to say, I preferred the UK one with what made me think Coney Island on the front. The US one looks like the covers for Identity & Mind Games, another small figure of a woman standing there looking away from us, altho the scenery they’re facing on Identity & Mind Games is beautiful. But the UK one makes me think of many of the previous ID covers. Feels like the person now designing the US covers is a bit fixated. They’re nice but a bit too similar? Is that what I’m looking for? I know, how should you know what I’m thinking. Ah well, the books are still wonderful to read & that’s the important part! Thanks for all the entertainment, Nora! And yes, I inhaled Random; will reread it probably next week, but loved all the little details, etc & really loved the family gathering/grilling!
When I look at the cover I see a Maple Leaf which makes me think of Canada – can’t think why a fall colored leaf since the book takes place in the summer and no connection to Canada. But as you say, the important part is the story and I inhaled it – have trouble putting them down.
It’s another great book . Love meeting old characters: Jamie,Quilla, detective Willowby and great update on the house project.
Thank you for a very good book and waiting patiently for September for book #59 .
NAILED IT!!!!!!!
Nora Queen of stories. I bowed down to you. Thank you as always for sharing your gift with us.
I reread the entire series every 18 months or so, and I know my favorites. It’s often because of a specific scene: Survivor in Death with Nixie in the morgue and Morris’ reaction is so visceral and touching. The funeral scene with the band talking to the family is very much like that–tears running down my face just thinking about how that must have felt. Nora, your skill with characters is unmatched. Thank you for what you do to bring real life into fiction in a way that is believable and relatable. Now to get to September….
Oh I totally agree ! Very touching moments ! Cried buckets at Survivor in death !! Yes cried at the groups reaction too .
I LOVE when they ride elevators at central. The conversations between them and everyone else are hysterical! Got a late start on reading the book so I just finished the elevator scene. I’m rolling!
Cute is a deadly word!!!! Laura warned us!! I love it. LOL.
I keep hearing Susan Sarandon in Bull Durham making comments about “cute”… “baby ducks are cute!” and nope, she doesn’t like it! And yep, I heard her some during the elevator conversation!
Ioooo can’t wait to read this !!!!
I pick up Saturday at the Library. I am so excited
I am putting 4 books aside, after all this book comes first😊
I have a lot of favorite lines but found one here about Galahad and it beats the rest. This one best learn to is it for me.
I just started reading and I’m loving it!
Great story but then it always is! Read it in one day. Home sick from work, lucky me! I would love for Eve and Roarke to really consider having a child. I think it could be interesting!
Nora wrote about this a decade ago and she still feels this way: https://fallintothestory.com/eve-and-roarke-with-no-body/
Laura
It makes sense. And she’s the genius behind the story line. Maybe they could babysit for Mavis lol!
Honestly, why would they? They have August, other friends, people who actually know what to do with a kid. Why would they want a homicide cop, who could be called out to work at any minute to babysit?
Well, I will admit that Eve has come quite a ways since a little Irish cousin backed her up against the front door just crawling towards her & then pulled itself up on her leather coat, (I laughed so hard, out loud & long on that one!–Kick-a** Eve!) but I don’t think she’ll be ready for babysitting for quite a while. Roarke might be getting closer–he does seem a bit more comfortable with Bella…up to a point! And to think they’re supposed to be there again for the next birth. Yep, I laughed at that thought also! Thanks for the laughs, Nora, some days they’re a great help, even when I’ve reread them multiple times!
I agree. I just think it would be amusing to see them suffer through an hour or two babysitting . Love to see Eve and Roarke out of their element
No babies!! It wouldn’t match with the Eve we know. She’s simply not maternal. And that’s okay! Besides I really don’t want the series to end.
It may be interesting to watch them try to navigate parenting but then the stories would be all about that . No more middle of the night rooftop ninja fights, or chasing and tackling street thieves. No working 24-48 hours straight on a case or taking off for a weekend alone on the island. In other words, no more of what makes this series so much fun. No babies from them for at least another decade. They can have a baby when Ms Roberts decides to try out a new career and no longer write.
That’s exactly right, MCB. I’m not writing about babies, parenting, babysitting in this series. I have no desire to do so as it would absolutely change the series.
While there’s humor in the books, Grace, they’re not comedies. There’s no rational reason for them to babysit. They, and hopefully the reader, get to enjoy their scenes with Bella when it makes sense to include her.
Anyway why look for a sitter with Peabody and McNab in situ who just can’t get enough of Bella.
👍
Loved the book — sometimes the victim is less than sympathetic but this time, I truly felt for the girls, and I think it was mostly because of the room searches afterward. Wondering if “dooser” was something Nora came up with or if her grandkids filled her in on the lingo. Either way, I WILL be using it!
I found this book to be more somber than the others, with less banter than usual among the main characters. But Peabody seems to speak out more than she used to and even Galahad is becoming bolder, offering some lighthearted moments.
Another great installment in this series!! I requested a copy of this book from the library last October. In Death is by far my favorite series. Imagine my utter delight when an arc copy arrived on the very day I was going to go to the library to get my copy. My husband chuckled at how excited I was. Amazing cast of characters and well-written. Once I start reading, it’s so hard to put down and I almost hate to finish but at least we know there will be another book!
Does anyone know if reffering to people who are nerdy or lame as wheezes was a deliberate reference to those who have asma,, and , thus, wheeze.. when i young there was a boy who constantly mention his i asthasma to our teacher,,” Miss Smith do you think i should go outside… i might start to wheeze” That’s just what i thought of when the term came up?
No, it wasn’t. -Laura
That’s just silly. Not all nerds have asthma, not everyone who has asthma’s a nerd. It’s just a made up bit of slang. And yeah, I’d know since I made it up!
What’s the significance of the (maple?) leaf on the cover and back of jacket? What does it have to do with the story?
The art department is working on a new look for the In Deaths, Passions in Death will have a cover that goes in a different direction. I’ll post in in a few weeks.
-Laura
I’m looking forward to seeing the cover for Passions ID; as I commented before, I think someone is a little fixated on a specific image & it crossed over into the ID’s. Thanks!
Robby Stewart – I commented on that (I think in the In Death Fans FB group) about that maple leaf – couldn’t see any connection to the story – made me think of Canada or the Fall.
Loved the book. Couldn’t put it down! I have read & listened to this series several times over, at least once a year! Can’t wait for Mavis to have her “Number 2”. As Bella stated she is “Nummer 1”.haha! I love Eve’s & Roarke’s development as a couple.
When I listen to the audiobook, it seems as if it enhances what I have already read.
I absolutely love the JD Robb books and Random hooked me from the start as usual. I can always count on these books to just take me away and probably my only complaint is that I finish them all too quickly. Thank you so much for providing such diversion for so many years.!
The comic relief with the fast-running street thief was hilarious. And I’d like to see the personal shopper lady come back in a future book sometime; she had a sarcastic bit which complemented Eve’s.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing your gift of storytelling with us! Just finished the book. This series remains my very favorite. I love all of the characters you breathe life into. Even the evil ones. Now I just have to wait until September. Happy to wait as I am never disappointed and you must work your craft how you see fit. Again, thank you for the joy listening to the audiobook brings me each and every time. By the way, Susan Erickson’s masterful ability to bring your characters to life with her voice is also something I just abso-poso enjoy to the max.
Wow! Just finished it a couple of days ago. I was struck with how this book really shines on how Eve has grown her ability to connect to people. Friends sure but also the people she is dealing with at work. And Chapter 16 put tears in my eyes.
Loved this book. I think sometimes people over analyze a book. I don’t like to suggest a book should go in any direction. It’s the authors decision and I like that Nora writes how she sees and wants a character to go and not how readers think they should. The thing about a series is the evolution of the characters. There have been major shifts in this series from the beginning to now. Slow and deliberate. I think we forget that these are fictional characters after all. They become beloved and that’s the authors genius when she can get us to become hooked on the quirks and personalities of her fictional characters. So much that people feel entitled to direct where and how they need to go. The reason I love series is that I do enjoy seeing where the characters will go next and the best thing for me about this particular series is the intelligent way Eve constructs and identifies the murderer. The whys and the how’s of it all. Step by step. The extra enjoyment is the humor of the familiar banter. I laugh out loud at Eves comments and so enjoy that aspect of her personality. She has come a long way in 58 books while remaining her if that makes sense. This is the genius of this series and this author. Rock on Nora!
Another great story with Eve and her friends. I do sit back and look at how broken some people are or can be. I like to think there is far more good in this world than evil, but feel better when Dallas has them in the box.
I’ve already reread Random a couple of times, really love how Nora can write the victims and witnesses as someone you instantly care about within just a few short pages. Been doing a bit of a reread of some of the older books, how did Nora envision so much of the technology leaps, social norms, (as well as pushbacks against those norms..) “current events” she populates the In Death world in & how did she predict so many things correctly 30 years ago?! Amazing!
I finally started the book a few days ago, and I’m in Chapter 20…not quite finished. I’m loving it, as I do every new In Death! After putting the book down last night because I couldn’t keep my eyes open, a thought came to me before I drifted off.
Having read the whole series, I don’t recall Nora using the names of “real” legal and illegal drugs in the books as much as she did in Random. She usually uses the names she has made up for drugs, i.e. Zoner, Rabbit, Whore, and others. Just an observation. It would be interesting to know what inspired her to do so.
Curious question: Eve is frequently having a Pepsi, but Coke has been mentioned only a handful of times in the series – I believe Amaryllis was the first one to mention a Coke specifically (I liked that it was in Random!).
Did the Coke brand mostly die out? Were there soda wars after the Urbans , like restaurants in Demolition Man ? (Google it, kids) Or is it a very regional thing, and Pepsi is just more popular in NYC in this universe?