Books: In Death series by J. D. Robb (M, SF, R)

I am currently about halfway through J. D. Robb's In Death series, a set of mysteries set in the mid-21st century in NYC. I have loved all the books so far (with the exception of Ceremony; the sexual practices of the cult were simply too much for me to stomach).

Eve Dallas is a tough yet likeable homicide cop learning to be set free from her painful past. Her husband Roarke is an awesome partner for her, and I love seeing them grow closer together. (He's not my type at all, but is perfect for Eve.)

The supporting cast is strong as well. Eve's friends (Peabody, Mavis, Mira, Nadine) couldn't be more different from each other, but they all love Eve and encourage her to embrace the uncertainty of relationships. Her superiors (all male) respect Eve's hard work and dedication. Eve's strained relationship with Roarke's butler, Summerset, provides quite a bit of comic relief.

Eve is haunted by memories of sexual abuse she experienced as a little girl, and the novels do contain R-rated language, violence, and sex. However, the writing is tight and the plots and characterizations are very well-done; I recommend these books highly! Grade: A+