J. D. Robb writes a winner! I found this book intriguing, with an unusual murderer who tries to demonstrate talent by killing the models, painting the models' likenesses. and posing the bodies in costumes near the homes and galleries of various gallery owners. As with previous "In Death" books, we get to follow Eve and Roark, and the other members of the NYPSD -- Peabody, McNab, Feeney, and Mira among them -- through the case, and see how police procedures could be handled in the future (not too far into the future these days!!). I don't recall seeing the art world of the later 21st century in any of the other books in the series -- although I suppose I could have missed them! -- so this was especially fun to read.

Since I listened to this story as an audio book, which is my favorite method for this series, I have to compliment narrator Susan Erickson on her consistently superior readings of these books. There is never any doubt who is speaking in the story. I look for her work whenever I'm in the market to listen to something new.

Framed in Death is the 61st book in J.D.Robb’s (a pseudonym for Nora Roberts) “In Death” series. I have read several books in the collection and have several more in my Kindle library to be read. I listened to the audiobook of this title which was narrated by the excellent Susan Erickson. These books are very popular and serve as good quick reads. Framed in Death, like the others in the series, is a police procedural thriller set in New York City in 2061. Returning characters include Lieutenant Eve Dallas of the NYC Homicide Police Department and Roarke (like Madonna, Adele, Cher, Prince and Elvis he only goes by one name. Unlike those named, he is not a singer), Eve’s husband, a very wealthy Irish businessman. Others include Sergeant Delia Peabody (Eve’s partner), Detective Ian McNab (Delia’s significant other), psychiatrist and profiler Dr. Charlotte Mira, and Mavis Freestone, her husband and their daughter, Bella.
The story begins with a crime scene at the doorway of two gallery owners. After murdering a young woman, the killer posed the victim in imitation of the subject of Johannes Vermeer’s painting “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” Her clothes were identical to the those worn in the painting. A second murder victim, a male, is later discovered near the home of an art gallery owner. He had been posed in imitation of the subject of Thomas Gainsborough’s painting, “Blue Boy.” This victim is also dressed in clothes identical to those worn in the painting.
The investigation reveals the victims to be LCs (Licensed Companions, the sex workers of the future). The reader learns the identity of the murderer early on. The serial killer is a portrait painter frustrated by lack of recognition and appreciation of his art. A mama’s boy, he has family wealth and is spoiled and overindulged, living off his family’s wealth. A clue for Dallas and Peabody is uncovered when a forensics examiner determines the material of the clothing on the victims is expensive and tailor made, accurate to the time period, and needing to have been sewn by experts. Not just fabric but purchases including wigs, paint, brushes, and glue samples help to uncover the name of the murderer. The killer is, of course, brought to justice by the end of the book as is his mother, a knowing accomplice to her son’s murders. The mother will spend her remaining years in prison “on planet” while her evil offspring will be incarcerated “off planet.”
Dallas and Peabody conduct a long interrogation of the man arrested for the murders covering ground for which there was already proof and evidence. Extensive interviews with the families, friends, acquaintances, and business associates of the victims as well as numerous and repeated phone calls to fabric designers and art supply stores also took up too much of the story.
The murderer is whiny and forgettable and the doting mother is stereotypical. There are no new advancements relating to the future either in the lives of the characters or in their workplace. Cars still rise above the street, there is video link calling, and food is available automat style but nothing else futuristically is revealed. There does not seem to be any personality growth in the characters after so much time. Peabody still uses (and re-uses and re-uses) descriptive words like “frosty” and “absolute=mag.” Eve’s candy (which she feels compelled to hide from exactly whom? Her husband, their butler, their cat?) goes missing yet again. Dallas is still incapable of selecting her own outfit for the day and continues to show no interest in nor have participation in purchasing her own clothes. Roarke buys all of her clothing, arranges all items in her closet, and lays out or gives verbal suggestions as to what she should wear even down to her footwear. Both husband and wife use the futuristic “auto-chef” but it is usually Roarke who brings out breakfast under domes for Eve as she appears after showering and dressing. He is constantly reminding her to eat something as she prepares to leave for work, always telling her how he is worried that she will not eat during the day. Roarke is undeniably sexy but to me, it isn’t sexy to have your spouse and lover take care of you as though he’s your mama.. And would a police department, either now or in the future, allow a police officer’s husband to participate in investigations or to witness interrogations? Roarke is always intertwined with Eve’s police work.
The relationships and interactions between the characters is warm and pleasing to the story. A tour of the house that Mavis and her family share with Delia and Ian is given as they all celebrate their moving in to their new home. Delia and Ian are still not married and Eve is always less than enthusiastic during their get togethers with the Freestones but Roarke is to be counted on to be involved and caring.
I will read the Eve Ronin and Roarke books that I have waiting for me with the hope that each mystery is as good as many that I have already had the pleasure to read. They predate this tile so they will feature the characters as they are represented in this latest book. I hope that the series will continue with the characters moving forward in their behaviors, attitudes, and dialogue.
I want to thank NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an advance copy of the audiobook of Framed in Death. This is my honest review of J.D. Robb’s book.

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called to a crime scene that’s more gallery than gore. A young woman is found posed like a Dutch master’s muse—eerily precise, hauntingly beautiful, and undeniably dead.

As Eve dives into the twisted world of Manhattan’s art elite, she uncovers a killer who believes obscurity is a crime—and plans to make the city take notice. With Roarke’s tech brilliance and Peabody’s grounded charm by her side, Eve navigates a case that’s as much about ego as it is about evidence.

✨ What I loved:

• The eerie elegance of the crime scenes
• Eve’s relentless pursuit of justice
• The blend of futuristic tech and classic detective grit


If you’re a fan of high-stakes investigations with emotional depth and a dash of artistic flair, this one’s worth framing on your shelf.

Thank you NetGalley, J.D. Robb and MacMillan Audio for the ALC!

#BookReview #FramedInDeath #JDRobb #InDeathSeries #CrimeThriller #ALC #NetGalley #EveDallas #MacmillanAudio

This audiobook is a stellar addition to the In Death series, delivering everything fans love—sharp dialogue, gripping suspense, and the ever-evolving relationship between Eve and Roarke. The narration is top-notch, bringing each character vividly to life and adding depth to the emotional beats and action-packed moments. With a tightly woven plot and high stakes, it’s a thoroughly satisfying listen from start to finish.

I am a huge fan of the 'In Death' series and anything Robb/Roberts writes. I can't name one book I didn't care for - I enjoy them all.

That being said, I really like Framed in Death. It reminded me of an episode on Tales from the Crypt - an artist would paint with blood from people he killed. Found the love of his life - she needs some life saving surgery or something, but it is stupid expensive. He goes out kills a random man, sells his painting. Turns out the man he killed to get that money was the only doctor who could save his love.

Now - Framed in Death is not exactly like that, but it is an artist who is killing people after painting their portrait. This one was different as it didn't end when Lt. Dallas caught him. It continued on and I liked that twist.

The narrator for the In Death series always does a fantastic job.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and J. D. Robb for an advance audio copy.

In Framed in Death, J.D. Robb once again delivers a gripping blend of futuristic suspense, complex characters, and emotional depth. This installment in the In Death series pulls readers into a chilling mystery that proves layered and sinister. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is as sharp and relentless as ever, with her signature blend of logic, grit, and justice. Her pursuit of the truth takes her through a tangled web of secrets and long-buried connections that challenge her both professionally and personally. As always, Roarke brings his charm, intelligence, and unwavering support, adding both romance and intrigue to the narrative. Robb masterfully balances a fast-paced police procedural with meaningful character development. The emotional stakes feel real, the dialogue is crisp, and the plot twists are genuinely surprising. Longtime fans will appreciate the continued evolution of Eve and her inner circle, while new readers will be drawn into Robb’s expertly crafted futuristic world. Framed in Death is a smart, satisfying, and suspenseful addition to a stellar series.

Framed in Death is another excellent addition to the In Death series by J D Robb. The warm friendships, loving relationships make a good contrast to the killer and his motivations. As always the steps to finding and catching the killer are interesting and well thought out, as are the sometimes humorous dynamics of the bull pen—tie and sock choices for example. Susan Ericksen does a wonderful job with the narration, making it easy to follow the story and differentiate the characters. Recommended. Thanks to MacMillan Audio and NetGalley for the chance to listen to this early.

3.75⭐️

The "In Death" series is one of my favorite! I have become so invested in all of the characters and how they intertwine with each other's lives. This installment was no different. I love how each book has a new premise but the story of their lives are still progressing in the background of the cases. This wasn't one of the strongest books in the series but I still found it highly enjoyable because of how well I know the characters and subplots by now. However, I did love the narrator and the different voices she uses to distinguish between the different characters!

I found the killer to be a little lackluster but maybe that was on purpose since in the story it is emphasized how much no one remembers him and how unremarkable he was. The premise of the killer was interesting even though it felt like it could have been fleshed out a little more.

Overall, it wasn't the worst book in the series and it is still one that I recommend picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this advanced listener's copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own!

This book fell flat for me, I had a hard time finishing it and made it about 60% before I gave up. I tried to come back to it to see if it would pick up but it wasn't for me, I usually enjoy books by this author.

Favorite author with a series that can never disappoint. I love Eve, Roarke, Peabody and all the regulars in the NYPSD and their other circle of friends. Big baddie got his comeuppance and took someone down with him who really deserved it. Hardest part of finishing this book is knowing it will probably be six months before the next one comes out. Great narrator with recognizable voices for each character.

Really enjoyed this book! It's my first time listening to a thriller by J.D. Robb. Looking into his previous works he's written over 60 novels in this series and somehow managed to still keep things fast, fresh and unpredictable in this novel.

I found the pace of this book fast! Just the way it should be for a thriller and I found myself engaged in the plot and connected to the characters throughout the entire thing!

Will definitely recommend to my friends and followers looking for a fun thriller!

Unfortunately, this one didn’t connect with me the way I’d hoped. I found it difficult to stay engaged with the story, and the narrator’s style was distracting for me, which made it hard to stay immersed. I know this series has a strong following, but this particular installment just wasn’t the right fit for me.

Fast and fun, “Framed in Death” is the 61st entry in JD Robb’s futuristic series set in New York City. Nora Roberts, one of America’s most prolific authors, writes this romantic thriller series featuring Detective Eve Dallas, under the name JD Robb. Robb’s latest novel features an uber - wealthy artist/murderer, whose work is spurned by New York’s art galleries.

Susan Ericksen gives a fine performance with many different accents to differentiate the multitude of characters within the audiobook edition.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

You would think that after 60 previous books set in the same world the newest In Death installment would be more of the same. I am amazed at how JD Robb comes up with new situations and continues to help us learn more about Eve, Roarke, and the rest of their "family" and come to love them more while helping solve crazy murders! I will continue to read all of these books as long as JD Robb writes them. I can't wait for the next one.

another great addition to the In Death series! A really compelling mystery and suspense plot, amplified by the amazing characters and found family that keep me coming back for more! Just overall enjoyed this story so much!

Another great Eve and Roarke mystery. A narcissistic mama’s boy, want to be artist is recreating the great masterpieces with unalived bodies. He’s feels justified and if he gets caught mommy will get him off. All the secondary characters are in this story, but are they really secondary…they are so vital to the story. I highly recommend this series. I received an audiobook for review, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Susan Ericksen does a wonderful job with the narration.

I loved the serial killer plot in this installment of the In Death series. The killer was both creepy and efficient, which made him a great protagonist for Eve Dallas and her team. As usual, there were well written murders and sleuthing, and if you enjoy this style of mystery, then you will love this book. I give it 4/5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to review Framed In Death by J.D. Robb. All opinions are my own

This is actually the first book I’ve read in this series and it’s number 17. It reads well as a standalone, but I think reading previous books in the series would give more insight into the characters.
The story is engaging and interesting as Lt. Eve Dallas investigates a series of deaths where the bodies are left to resemble works of art. Suspense and intrigue kept me listening to the audiobook, however this narrator was not for me. I found the narration to be over acted with most characters seeming angry. At times I found it difficult to differentiate characters since the emotion seemed way over the top and they sounded too alike. It didn’t work for me and distracted me from the story itself. I gave an overall 4 stars but the narration I would rate at 2.5-3 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan audio for the arc.

Another gripping entry in the ever-reliable In Death series.

Framed in Death delivers yet again with a compelling, fast-paced mystery. This time, I was particularly captivated by the killer—a serial murderer who poses his victims as iconic works of art. It’s a brilliantly original concept that adds a creative twist to the case, and I found myself eagerly listening just to see which famous painting would be reimagined next. The killer’s meticulous attention to detail heightens the suspense, and the sense that the answer is just out of reach builds to a deeply satisfying conclusion. Honestly, I’d love to see a crime procedural take on a storyline like this—done right, the visual payoff could be stunning. It’s also been a couple books since the NYPSD team has had to deal with a defendant that can mount a formidable defense, so it was fun to spend a bit more time on that side of the case as well.

On the character side, it was a joy to finally see Mavis, Leonardo, Peabody, and McNab move into their long-awaited home. It feels like those renovations have been going on forever, but the evolution of these characters’ personal lives is a huge part of what makes this series fun to follow.

Huge thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC—I’ve never been more thrilled about an approval!

You know I'm a huge fan but feel free to skip this one.

Lt. Eve Dallas and her partner, Dt. Delia Peabody, are called to the scene of a body which has been left posed outside of a home in Manhattan. When they arrive, they find that they are at the home of a gallery owner and the deceased woman in the odd clothing is made to look like a famous painting.

And so it goes that someone is killing street LC's and leaving them in costumes, wired and posed after various famous paintings outside of galleries or the homes of gallery owners. They easily come to the conclusion that the killer is a rich since the cost of the materials for each costume runs about $250,000.

I found the idea of this one to be too close to one of her other stories, Portrait in Death (Book 16), where a photograph is killing and posing his victims for photographs--this included Crack's younger sister as one of the victims.

The killer was meh. Even the witnesses couldn't remember anything about him. The investigation was okay although I once again focused on the fact that her whole department picked up parts of the case and that the ME and the lab, had information ready for Eve within hours. This is NYC, even in the future, I can't imagine that the chief medical examiner on Manhattan can jump on every one of Eve's cases before the body is even cold.

We did get an extended tour of the great house renovation which has finally been completed, and we get as much joy as Dallas that we can finally stop talking about it.

I love this series and jump at every opportunity to receive a copy of the next In Death. I am coming down hard on what is the 61st story in a series, and how hard it must be to stay fresh with them at this point. Her relationship with Roarke is pretty solid at this point and any fights they have gotten into recently feel forced and opportunistic, like adding an obligatory scene where Eve has a fight with the soda again or the candy thief strikes again (you know that has to be Roarke with his hand still "in it").

While I will apologize for being cranky when a story only comes up as meh, there is a reason most series don't last as long as this one as it is hard to keep coming up with something fresh and eventually you lose readers no matter how dedicated.  Even though this is the year 2061, it seems current technology has caught up with Nora's imagination and we don't even have anything cool or scifi showing up.

With the exception of the great house tour, there was nothing unique or interesting about this investigation or anything that really furthered the development of the characters.