Deep Down Dead by Steph Broadribb

Deep Down Dead
By Steph Broadribb
Published by Orenda Books (Kindle - 15 October 2016; Paperback - 5 January 2017)
ISBN: 978-1910633557 (Paperback)

Publisher's description

Lori Anderson is as tough as they come, managing to keep her career as a fearless Florida bounty hunter separate from her role as single mother to nine-year-old Dakota, who suffers from leukaemia. But when the hospital bills start to rack up, she has no choice but to take her daughter along on a job that will make her a fast buck. And that’s when things start to go wrong. The fugitive she’s assigned to haul back to court is none other than JT, Lori’s former mentor – the man who taught her everything she knows … the man who also knows the secrets of her murky past.

Not only is JT fighting a child exploitation racket operating out of one of Florida’s biggest theme parks, Winter Wonderland, a place where ‘bad things never happen’, but he’s also mixed up with the powerful Miami Mob. With two fearsome foes on their tails, just three days to get JT back to Florida, and her daughter to protect, Lori has her work cut out for her. When they’re ambushed at a gas station, the stakes go from high to stratospheric, and things become personal.

My verdict
I read most of Deep Down Dead in one day, in one sitting, in just a few hours. It's a BRILLIANT action thriller! Sexy, gripping, fast-paced, fresh... and definitely a page turner that will keep you reading late into the night or all day long (trust me - I know from experience!).

Steph Broadribb (aka crimethrillergirl) has created a fantastic rollercoaster read. Think Stephanie Plum (Janet Evanovitch) & Jack Reacher (Lee Child) rolled into one.

Deep Down Dead has an authentic American feel with a fantastic plot, vivid setting and amazing writing that puts you right into the heart of the action - a clear winning formula. Yes, violence is an integral part of the plot, but this book doesn't feel violent as it's so well written - it's like watching an expertly choreographed action sequence in a film that's vital & engaging... which means I also have to mention that this book would make a perfect transition to the big screen.

Steph Broadribb's lead character Lori Anderson is an all-action girl, but also has a feminine side. I love the inclusion of Lori's nine-year-old daughter Dakota (who has leukaemia) - this gives Lori a focus other than her bounty hunting, a sense of responsibility and a past that softens her, so she's believable and someone you want to get to know. It also means you're in for an emotional journey too - this is a book that will make you cry, laugh, scream, wince and hold your breath. And as for JT... WOW, we want more of him!

Deep Down Dead heralds the start of a new series. It's contains everything you want in an action thriller - a strong female lead, sexy potential partner, thrilling plot and a lot of heart. This book is going to fly its way up the charts! Bring on the next Lori Anderson book!!!!

I received an Advance Reader Copy.