First Chapter Review: Admit to Mayhem by D.J. Adamson

I am reviewing the first chapter of Admit to Mayhem by D. J. Adamson for her virtual book tour.

BLURB: With a contrary attitude and an addiction for independence, Lillian Dove admits she has not been a success in life. In fact, she considers failing as one of her addictions. Yet, when she comes across a suspicious house fire with a history of arson and murder, she instinctively attempts to help someone trapped. Lillian becomes the only possible eyewitness to criminal arson, and her life begins to spiral out of control.

Lillian Dove is an endearing “everywoman” struggling with life issues, emotional complexities and a habit of doing just the opposite of what she’s told to do. These qualities in a heroine give the reader an ability to vicariously struggle along with the protagonist in this intriguing Midwest Noir mystery.

COVER: The font gives it the right vibe, but it doesn't really have a noir mystery feel to it. This cover, however, does capture the Midwest location.

FIRST CHAPTER: Lillian Dove is on her way home in the wee hours of the morning when she comes across a house engulfed in flames. She calls 911, but knows they will never get there in time to save the person she sees trapped inside.

KEEP READING: The mysterious fire, Lillian's valiant efforts to save someone trapped inside, and an ending that compels the reader to continue, definitely make this a book I will continue reading. While I am not fond of a first person narrator who talks to her audience, for now I am willing to forgo that to see how the next chapter develops. The mystery looks to be intriguing enough to keep me reading along, even if I don't care for the main character yet.

Series: Lillian Dove
Paperback: 294 pages
Publisher: Horatio Press; First Printing edition (March 10, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0990307808
ISBN-13: 978-0990307808

Purchase at Amazon!


I received a free excerpt of this book from the author through Pump Up Your Book. This review contains my honest opinions, which I have not been compensated for in any way.

D. J. Adamson is an award-winning author. Her family roots grow deep in the Midwest and it is here she sets much of her work. She juggles her time between her own desk and teaching writing to others at two Los Angeles area colleges. Along with her husband and two Welsh Terriers, she makes her home in Southern California.

For More Information

• Visit D.J.’s website.
• Connect with D.J. on Facebook and Twitter.
• Find out more about D.J. at Goodreads.
• Visit D.J.’s blog.
• Contact D.J.