The Search

This was quite an average story from Nora Roberts, sadly.
Granted there was a lot of dog behaviour passages, because of Fiona's profession, but I felt there was too much of it, which detracted from the story of her stalker turning killer. I couldn't connect with Fiona or Simon, and I was more hooked

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on the hunt to find the killer, which when it came to the end, was a bit of an anti-climax.
Nora Roberts is always top notch with her crime novels, but this was a bit of a disappointment.

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The Search is absolutely wonderful. A lot of detail on Search and Rescue Canine training. Fiona and Simon have a great relationship, though reluctant at first. There is a lot of action and a killer to find. A must read even if you don't care for romance.

I can't help it, I love this category of Nora Roberts' books. A lot of her other genres I don't like, but the stand-alone romantic suspense ones, I'm a sucker for, even though I really do read a lot of more literary stuff.
This one has the heroine as a search and rescue dog trainer (so it also hits

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one of my other main areas of interest, dogs). The hero is a carpenter who builds furniture of staggering beauty and genius. He wants neither a dog nor a woman, and of course ends up with both. In the course of the book, we learn that the heroine was the sole survivor of a serial killer a number of years ago, now a copy-cat is about and after her.
What I like about the books that Nora Roberts writes is the atmosphere she sets up among her characters. Not only the two-some that are meant to be, but the extended families of each of them, not only the blood relatives, but the friends. It is so warm and inviting, and makes you wish real life could always be like that.
The only thing that disappointed me a little about this one is that the dogs were less and less involved as the story went on. I thought the dogs would prove to be instrumental in "saving the day." but by then they were sort of incidental. I was even worried that one would die, fortunately that didn't happen, but i thought the ending might have had more impact had it involved the dogs more.

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This is a perfect summer read! I love Nora Roberts and her ability to pull the reader into a great story, with realistic characters and heart-stopping action. The mystery element of all of her novels put her on every reader’s MUST READ list and her latest will not disappoint. Fiona Bristow is the

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only survivor of a serial killer who strangled women and then buried them with a red scarf. Years later, when a copycat killer starts creeping into Fiona’s life, she realizes she may be the next intended victim. Not only does Nora Roberts tell a great story, but she tells a complete story. There is never any weak moments in her plot. Her characters are fully fleshed out and the romance angle doesn’t ever make you cringe.

I whole-heartedly recommend THE SEARCH as the perfect beach book (or rainy day book)!

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Okay, I admit it - I was a Nora Roberts virgin. I know, I know, 191 books in print - 169 of them New York Times bestsellers and I hadn't read a one. So trying to be a well rounded reader, I picked up her latest - The Search - on a hot lazy Sunday afternoon in the hammock. Perfect choice!

Fiona

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Bristow was the lucky one. Destined to be the 13th victim of the Red Scarf Killer serial killer, she fought back, escaped and he was captured, prosecuted and jailed. Fiona's fiancee was also a victim. She has retreated to Orcas Island where she works as a dog trainer and also leads a volunteer canine search and rescue group. Simon, a talented wood artist, is also looking for peace and quiet when he moves to Orcas. But his puppy Jaws needs professional help and he seeks out Fee. Well, sparks fly.... But danger is afoot as well. Although the killer is safely behind bars, someone seems to be on a mission to duplicate his work. Is Fiona in his sights?

Roberts has created a strong female lead in Fiona. Simon is the rough and ready, not looking for a relationship kind of guy (who of course just happens to be really attractive) The interactions between the two are entertaining if not wholly believable. I got a little tired of hearing Simon say shut up. There's some steamy sex scenes between the two that did a steamy day justice. For the most part, the story is more on their budding relationship with the killer taking a back seat. Yes the suspense is there, but those looking for a high level thriller won't find it here.

As a dog lover, what I did really like were the dog training scenes. Lots of good information, some I've tried - I've got one who likes to jump up on people - and it worked! I found the search and rescue operations and methodology just as interesting. Some readers may find this slows them down. Great dog quote from the book "One of the best things about dogs, to Fiona's mind, was their absolute joy in welcoming you home, whether you'd been gone for five minutes or five days. There lay unconditional and boundless love. 'And I really liked her descriptions of the setting she chose. A cute little cottage in the woods, with beaches nearby? Sign me up. Orcas Island is real.

So I enjoyed my first foray into Roberts' territory - great escapist reading that didn't tax my brain. Fans of romantic suspense will enjoy Nora Roberts. It kind of reminded me a bit of Iris Johansen's writing. I can see why she's at the top of her game.

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A good Roberts overall, with lots of romance and intrigue. Simon, the male protagonist, is particularly well-done. Grumpy and stubborn and not at all like the usual male romance heroes. The ending felt extremely rushed, almost as if the publisher was hounding her or she ran out of pages. Good lead

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up and action towards the end, but then it just kind of fizzled.

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Fiona Bristow survived a sadistic serial killer nearly seven years ago – although her fiance and his K9 partner did not. Now living on an idyllic island off of the coast of Washington, Fiona spends her days training her three search and rescue dogs while running a small dog training school for

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others. The search and rescue unit she created responds to call-outs and fulfills her desire to save the lost. When she’s not working and training, she spends her days with friends, and enjoys the company of her stepmother, Sylvia. Then a handsome, but rough-edged artist named Simon moves to the island and arrives on Fiona’s doorstep asking for help with his mischievous puppy Jaws. As Fiona and Simon begin to heat things up, Fiona finds herself unwittingly falling in love. But, she is not emotionally prepared when someone begins copying the crimes of the serial killer who tormented her. He’s behind bars, but could he be orchestrating everything behind this latest string of murders? And if so, what does that mean for Fiona – the only victim that got away?

Nora Roberts’ latest novel is fast paced with impeccably developed characters and a plot that kept me on the edge of my seat. There are some steamy sex scenes, but this is not your typical romance. I have to admit, I was reluctant to accept this book for review – I have always thought that Roberts’ books were typical romance books (a genre I don’t usually love), and when I heard The Search was about a canine search and rescue team, I was doubly reluctant. So many times, I find that fiction writers do not get it right when it comes to canine search and rescue. Often the facts are wrong, the procedures don’t mesh, and the relationship between dog and handler does not ring true. Since I was certified in Search and Rescue with my K9 Caribou in California, nothing bugs me more than incorrect information regarding the discipline. So, it was with great delight that I discovered an author who does get it right. Roberts’ descriptions are spot on. Her facts are obviously well researched and accurate. My only quibble with her was the radio chatter where the dialogue sometimes fell short of how law enforcement actually communicates during a search…but, this is a small complaint really.

Roberts’ authenticity and terrific characters made me forget I was reading a novel. I loved how she portrayed the strong women in the book, specifically their friendships with each other which felt honest to me. The plot moves forward relentlessly, building to the final scene of the novel which had my palms sweating. Nora Roberts is a great story teller – she knows when to push forward and when to hold back. She knows how to build tension. She knows all about conflict and its resolution. I can see now why Roberts has a huge fan following and why her books sky rocket onto the best seller lists.

The Search is not literary fiction, but it is a wonderful, plot driven novel with great characters. This is excellent genre fiction, one which falls somewhere between romance and suspense-thriller. Readers who like their novels gritty and real, and who don’t mind a little bit of hot romance in the mix, will love The Search.

Highly recommended.

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I am still reading Search by Nora Roberts. But as expected it is a easy read and when finished leaves me wanting more!!

murder survivor moves to WA to train dogs & do rescue search- copycat killer- agent moves in to protect her

A bit long, a bit anticlimactic. The bad guy was bad and yet when she had her moment to confront him, it was over...way to fast. Her books lately have been very talky, lots of girl talk and love talk...too much talking in my opinion. A good story, but it could have been shorter, or more twists and

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turns to make the length more worth while. I liked it, but didn't love it. Glad I got book at the library.

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I just finished "The Search" by Nora Roberts. As usual Ms. Roberts delivered a suspenseful, romantic story, full of uniques characters and interesting plot twists.
"The Search" follows Fiona Bristow, the sole survivor of a string of serial murders. Fiona now lives on the island of Orcas off

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Washington state where she leads a canine search and rescue unit as well as a successful dog training business.
Enter Simon Doyle, and his lovable but rambunctious puppy Jaws. Simon comes to Fiona for help with Jaws and gets much more than he bargained for. It seems that the serial killer that Fiona bested has trained an apprentice and he is gunning for Fiona. Will she best this killer too? Will Simon and Fiona fall in love? Will Jaws eat the rest of Simon's beloved pick up truck? Pick up a copy of "The Search" by Nora Roberts today to find out!

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A little predictable, the ending did seem like it was rushed a little. The book went on and on building the characters and then then end climax was just boom... over. Overall it was a good book.

Three-year old Hugh Cauldwell is missing in the woods of Muran State Park on the Orcas Island in the Puget Sound. Fiona Bristow, a certified canine search and rescue trainer and her team are called to the scene. Within minutes upon arrival Fiona and her crew of volunteers and rescue dogs are

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scouring the woods in search of the missing tot. In a matter of minutes with the scent fresh on his nose, Peck, Fiona’s lead dog retrieves the boy and brings him safely back to his panic-stricken parents. This is just another day’s work for Fiona in Nora Roberts’ new thrilling romance The Search.

Fiona moved to Orcas eight years ago to escape her former life. She lives a quaint life now, running the dog-training program from her small yet comfortable home on the island. The adoring three labs that bring her unconditional love each day surround her. Her new life is simple and peaceful, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the city and the dangers that loom. The danger Fiona knows all too well…
After her escape from the hands of a serial killer who murdered her partner and fiancé, Fiona is the only survivor of the Red Scarf killer.

For Simon Doyle, the Orcas offer him a quiet place for him think and do his woodworking. He enjoys being single, answering only to himself and no complications. Though his life is turned upside down when his “thoughtful” mother brings him a Labrador puppy to “cure his loneliness”. Jaws, the new puppy, has torn apart Simon’s house, his truck and has done a number on his patience. He is fed up with his newest little addition until he is referred to Fiona.

Through patience and understanding Fiona teaches Jaws and Simon what partnership is all about. Essentially, she is training both man and dog in the mastery of commitment despite either’s protests. Though neither Fiona nor Simon are interested in a long-term relationship, the countless hours and close proximity of Jaws’ training sessions lead them down a path of love.

As old threats from the Red Scarf killer resurface with the appearance of his copycat killer, Fiona’s comfortable life begins to unravel. From jail the Red Scarf killer has sent his disciple to finish the job, seeking revenge on the girl who escaped. Simon’s newfound protectiveness over Fiona will be necessary as she fights to free herself from the hands of a serial killer.

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Got this one from my mom. She read it and really enjoyed it so I gave it a shot. It was a fun read, especially if you live in the Pacific Northwest as I do. It was a bit predictable, yet still entertaining. A good one to read after something brain consuming. Its a pretty quick read and I found the

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descriptions of the locations and animals quite good.

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There is just something about Nora Roberts ability to tell a story, even though she works to a formulaic plot, that is strangely compelling. The Search is a romantic suspense - Fiona is being stalked by a serial killer who is an apprentice of the man who almost murdered her ten years earlier. To be

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honest, I didn't feel that this storyline commanded the attention it should have. The sense of a real threat was never really there and I was more involved in the other aspects of the story.Fiona has a real strength that I find appealing in a female romance protagonist - her history would have traditionally cast her as a victim yet Fiona is determined to be anything but. I think Roberts found a good balance between fortitude and vulnerability. Fiona is smart, likeable and sympathetic.I was less enamoured by Simon initially, but as Roberts revealed his character, his appeal grew. I think Roberts managed to skirt the stereotype of the hero (handsome, rich, reclusive, gruff) by the skin of her teeth because he was more emotionally complex than I expected.The best part of The Search for me was the relationship between Fiona and Simon - it's an unusual romance between two strong personalities. I enjoyed the banter and thought perhaps there were shades of Eve and Roarke (from Roberts' In Death series). It may not be a hearts and flowers courtship but there is genuine affection and healthy lust. I found the science of Search and Rescue dog operations and training very interesting, if anything I would have enjoyed slightly more depth to this aspect of the novel even though I recognise it would probably have slowed down the story too much. The Search is classic Nora Roberts with a tried and true formula that nevertheless offers something intriguing and interesting. I think part of the appeal for me is the way she builds a relationship between her characters and readers. I enjoyed The Search and think fans of the romantic suspense genre will as well.

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This was a nice, enjoyable read.The best part for me was the dogs, particularly the search and rescue aspects. I've read other books that have featured them, but I really got a feel for how they operate, and why people and dogs would volunteer to do this kind of work. I liked seeing the training

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techniques at work with dogs ranging from skilled search and rescue dogs playing games on their playground to the highly spoiled little yappy dog that had taken over her owners lives. The creepy serial killer story worked as well. If I've read a few books featuring search & rescue dogs, I've read many with serial killers stalking a victim. The Search has a clever twist, and overall executes this part of the story competently.I loved the characters, and I'm guessing we will see sequels about Fiona's two (single) best friends. I pretty much always enjoy Nora Roberts' female leads. Fiona was strong and self sufficient, but not so much so that she wouldn't let friends and a new lover into her life when she needed them.The only part that didn't thrill me was the romance. In particular, I didn't feel any pull from the character of Simon. He was interesting enough, but felt a little too much like a stock character, and one that doesn't particularly appeal to me.However, that's OK because the romance wasn't the primary focus of the story. I often think of Nora Roberts books as more of chick lit than romance for this reason. Overall, I found the book to be a good read.

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Having survived the horrific events in her life, including the death of her fiancé and being kidnapped by a serial killer, Fiona Bristow concentrated on her dogs and helping to find others that are lost or missing. Living on Orcas island had felt a safe place to be. Training a dog for search and

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rescue is her specialty, but when Simon Doyle shows with his pup Jaws and requests obedience training, she sets him up in one of her beginning classes. Finding out that there was a copy-cat killer out there she knew her and her dogs would have to be extra careful who they let close to them. Learning of her past and the danger of the current situation, only brought out the protective side of Simon, which was odd because the tall, lanky red head just wasn’t his type.

A suspense filled romance to be sure. So it was slow in parts while Fi was training her dogs, searching with her dogs and talking about the dogs, but the connection between Fi, Simon and the dogs was fun to see. There was needless information (his ex for example) that bogged down the story in parts, but overall it was what you would expect from a Nora Roberts romantic suspense novel.

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Fiona Bristow moved to Orcas Island a few years ago, she works as a Dog trainer and has a close few friends in this close-knit community. Into the community comes Simon Doyle, a cabinetmaker, who makes special pieces, an artist in wood. He's nothing like her but the two of them spark.
She also works

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on canine rescue and fights back issues with herself. (Including a moment of claustrophobia that I suffered myself recently in a tent). Many years ago she was the witness against a serial killer and apparently he's at work again, but he's in jail. He's taunting Fiona, making her come to terms with her past and possibly her future.

I love how Fiona and Simon spark off each other, sometimes accomodating, sometimes fighting but always with love. I really enjoyed the story.

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Fiona is a survivor of a horrible ordeal. A few years ago she was abducted and almost killed by a serial killer. After she escapes, the killer stalks her and kills her police officer fiance and his K-9 partner before being caught. Now she lives a quiet life on Orcas Island in the Pacific Northwest.

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With her three loyal labs by her side, she volunteers for a canine search and rescue job while also teaching dog training classes. She is thriving in her quiet life until the day Simon Doyle races up her driveway with an adorable puppy, Jaws. Fiona takes on the puppy with no problem but finds herself becoming attracted to his master. Throw in the fact that a copycat killer has surfaced and appears to be hunting Fiona down and you have a suspensful romantic thriller with some humor thrown in for good measure.

I love Nora Roberts so I didn't think I would have any problems reading this book and I was not (too) disappointed. A bonus for me was all the puppy training tips as I am in the process of training my 6 month old Chow/Shepherd mix!

The Search caught my attention from the first page and although it was a little predictable, I enjoyed it through the end. There were some slight issues I had with the book like Fiona and Simon profiling the killer. A dog trainer and an artist? Fiona treated the killer as if he were a dog and I wasn't impressed. It also hardly ever rained. I'm from the PNW and I find it hard to believe that on the cusp of spring, it only rained two, maybe three, times. Small flaws but enough to slightly annoy me. However, the characters were likeable and the dog tips were helpful.

I personally like an easy yet suspensful read. There wasn't a whole lot to think about while reading the book so it made for a relaxing summer read!

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A good crime drama/romance for dog lovers.

Terrifying. Great romance!

Whether you like dogs or not, Nora will make you want ten of them by the end of the book. If you have dogs she'll make you love them more than you already do. You can tell Nora loves dogs in this book. She writes of their loyalty, their love, and their need to be happy, discipline animals. I read

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this book and understood all the more that my new Yorkie has a few things to learn... things that will make the family and her happier.

You'll also love the MC's love interest, Simon. He's fantastic! Bravo!

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Ten years ago, Fiona survived an attack by a serial killer, who is now in prison. She moved to a rural island in Washington state and has a thriving business as a dog trainer and Search and Rescue volunteer. When her hunky carpenter neighbor acquires a puppy and asks her for help, sparks fly. But a

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copycat killer is at work, and Fiona may be in renewed danger.

More satisfying as a romance than romantic suspense. Not one of Roberts's best, but that's still pretty good.

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Suspense - read a while ago, but a good read. To most people, Fiona Bristow seems to have an idyllic life-a quaint house on an island off Seattle's coast, a thriving dog-training school, and a challenging volunteer job performing canine search and rescues. Not to mention her three intensely loyal

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Labs. But Fiona got to this point by surviving a nightmare...Several years ago, Fiona was the only survivor of the Red Scarf serial killer, who shot and killed Fiona's cop fiancé and his K-9 partner. On Orcas Island, Fiona found the peace and solitude she needed to rebuild her life. But all that changes on the day Simon Doyle barrels up her drive, desperate for her help. He's the reluctant owner of an out-of-control puppy, foisted upon him by his mother. Jaws has eaten through Simon's house, and he's at his wit's end.

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