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Archie Sheridan & Gretchen Lowell #2
Sweetheart
Portland detective Archie Sheridan, the former head of the Beauty Killer Task Force, hunted Gretchen Lowell for years before she kidnapped him, tortured him, and then let him go. Now that she is behind bars, Archie is finally piecing his life back together. He's returned home to his ex-wife and their two children. But no matter how hard Archie tries, he just can't stop thinking about Gretchen!
When the body of a young woman is discovered in Forest Park, Archie is reminded of the first corpse he discovered there a decade ago: it turned out to be the Beauty Killer's first victim, and Archie's first case. Then, the unthinkable happens: Gretchen escapes from prison, and once the news breaks, all of Portland goes on high alert; but secretly, Archie is relieved. He knows he's the only one who can capture Gretchen and now he has a plan to get out from under her thumb once and for all. Even if it means becoming her last victim!
325 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2008
265 people are currently reading
8,218 people want to read
About the author
Chelsea Cain
97books3,770followersChelsea Cain is the New York Times bestselling author of the Archie Sheridan/Gretchen Lowell thrillers Heartsick, Sweetheart, Evil at Heart, The Night Season, Kill You Twice, and Let Me Go. Her next book One Kick (August, 2014) will be the first in her Kick Lannigan thriller series. Her book Heartsick was named one of the best 100 thrillers ever written by NPR, and Heartsick and Sweetheart were named among Stephen King's Top Ten Books of the Year. Her books have been featured on HBO's True Blood and on ABC's Castle. Cain lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,528 reviews
November 15, 2022
Archie Sheridan & Gretchen Lowell, #2: Although this book felt absurd at times with the over the top twists, actions and situations, the characterisations of the supporting cast kept me interested in the further adventures in the macabre relationship of hardcore serial killer Gretchen Lowell and her supposed nemesis, Archie Sheridan. 7 out of 12.
2015 read
2015 read
February 16, 2017
To all those people who have recommended Chelsea Cain to me over the years - you are entitled to beat me over the head. WHY did I wait so long to read her?
Whoever thought I would fall in thrall to a serial killer? Gretchen Lowell is in a class all of her own.
As is Chelsea Cain.
I feel a Chelsea Cain reading binge coming on........
Whoever thought I would fall in thrall to a serial killer? Gretchen Lowell is in a class all of her own.
As is Chelsea Cain.
I feel a Chelsea Cain reading binge coming on........
November 4, 2016
Serial killer Gretchen Lowell is back in Chelsea Cain’s new novel “Sweetheart,� a follow-up to her best-selling “Heartsick.�
Portland detective Archie Sheridan, has moved back in with his family, and is still struggling with pills and is going through withdrawal from the psycho Gretchen, who he quit visiting in prison.
Archie is investigating a murder case after the body of a young woman turns up in a park.
“The woman had been dead awhile. Her skull was exposed; her scalp had been pulled back, a tangle of red hair separated from the hairline by several inches. Animals had eaten her face, exposing her eyes and brain to the forces of putrefaction. OK, so maybe you shouldn’t eat while reading this book.
Reporter Susan Ward also returns to the scene in the follow-up, pursuing a story about a corrupt senator. When the politician turns up dead, along with one of Susan’s co-workers, she and Archie’s paths again cross. Soon after though, both reporter and cop become distracted when Beauty Killer Gretchen Lowell escapes from prison. Eventually, of course, Archie gets a call on his cell phone ... “Hello, darling.� She’s back. He’s obsessed.
What follows is a wild ride of a novel. Archie wants to catch Gretchen. Susan wants to get a good story. They both are in danger.
I listened to the audiobook “Sweetheart� and couldn't put it down. It’s certainly a page-turner. I still have visions of the characters and felt the audiobook made the book come to life. It was so fantastic!
I hope Cain continues to write about Gretchen, who has been compared to Hannibal Lecter. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart. If you love an awesome thriller this book is for you. I highly recommend it.
Portland detective Archie Sheridan, has moved back in with his family, and is still struggling with pills and is going through withdrawal from the psycho Gretchen, who he quit visiting in prison.
Archie is investigating a murder case after the body of a young woman turns up in a park.
“The woman had been dead awhile. Her skull was exposed; her scalp had been pulled back, a tangle of red hair separated from the hairline by several inches. Animals had eaten her face, exposing her eyes and brain to the forces of putrefaction. OK, so maybe you shouldn’t eat while reading this book.
Reporter Susan Ward also returns to the scene in the follow-up, pursuing a story about a corrupt senator. When the politician turns up dead, along with one of Susan’s co-workers, she and Archie’s paths again cross. Soon after though, both reporter and cop become distracted when Beauty Killer Gretchen Lowell escapes from prison. Eventually, of course, Archie gets a call on his cell phone ... “Hello, darling.� She’s back. He’s obsessed.
What follows is a wild ride of a novel. Archie wants to catch Gretchen. Susan wants to get a good story. They both are in danger.
I listened to the audiobook “Sweetheart� and couldn't put it down. It’s certainly a page-turner. I still have visions of the characters and felt the audiobook made the book come to life. It was so fantastic!
I hope Cain continues to write about Gretchen, who has been compared to Hannibal Lecter. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart. If you love an awesome thriller this book is for you. I highly recommend it.
March 30, 2021
I didn't intend to finish two books in one day but that's just how I happened to spend my Saturday. When I originally cancelled my weekend plans it was because I assumed I would be suffering from a rebound migraine. Luckily I'm migraine-free and what better way to spend a beautiful Saturday in June but by staying inside to binge read. In my earlier review for Heartsick I said I planned to finish reading this by the end of summer but I might finish it by Friday if I keep reading like this.
Sweetheart takes all the drama and depravity from book one up several notches. I continued to be both disturbed by Archie and Gretchen's "relationship" and secretly rooting for them to be together ( I'm a sick person) Archie's continued battle with survivors guilt, depression and his deteriorating health is even more tragic in Sweetheart.
I loved in Sweetheart we got more of Susan's world, her mother Bliss is nuts in the best way. I have to admit I'm also shipping Susan & Archie's best friend Henry even tho she's 28 and he's like 50. I love it!
As with Heartsick I feel I need to warn readers that Sweetheart is even darker and gorier(is that a word?)than Heartsick. There is also a lot of cursing and some pretty unsettling sex scenes. So if that's not your bag, I'd avoid this book.
Around The Year in 52 Books: A book by an author with the same first & last initials.
Summer Reading Challenge: Read a book you can finish in one day.
2018 Bookriot Reading Challenge: A one sitting book
2018 Popsugar Reading Challenge: a book about mental health.
Hooked On Books & YA Bookaholic Read-A-Thons
Sweetheart takes all the drama and depravity from book one up several notches. I continued to be both disturbed by Archie and Gretchen's "relationship" and secretly rooting for them to be together ( I'm a sick person) Archie's continued battle with survivors guilt, depression and his deteriorating health is even more tragic in Sweetheart.
I loved in Sweetheart we got more of Susan's world, her mother Bliss is nuts in the best way. I have to admit I'm also shipping Susan & Archie's best friend Henry even tho she's 28 and he's like 50. I love it!
As with Heartsick I feel I need to warn readers that Sweetheart is even darker and gorier(is that a word?)than Heartsick. There is also a lot of cursing and some pretty unsettling sex scenes. So if that's not your bag, I'd avoid this book.
Around The Year in 52 Books: A book by an author with the same first & last initials.
Summer Reading Challenge: Read a book you can finish in one day.
2018 Bookriot Reading Challenge: A one sitting book
2018 Popsugar Reading Challenge: a book about mental health.
Hooked On Books & YA Bookaholic Read-A-Thons
November 23, 2016
All I can say about this book Sweetheart by Chelsea Cain is that its a real page turner it had everything that a thriller of a high standard should have, senators having affairs with 14 year old girl he ends up dead so does the girl, then its Archie's sick twisted obsession with Gretchen Lowell their relationship reminds me of a fatal attraction of the worst kind, as its affecting his marriage to Debbie who sits at home waiting for his return only to find his mind is always somewhere else.
Just a quick end note BLOODY BRILLIANT
Just a quick end note BLOODY BRILLIANT
November 8, 2024
Fairly good follow up book to Heartsick but I don't think I will continue with this series.
Three stars.
Three stars.
November 10, 2016
I liked how this book picked right up the end of the first book. Parts of this were a little unbelievable but the story was strong enough to carry my attention through to the end. It was interesting how Chelsea Cain sucks you into wanting to know what gruesome thing will happen next. It's kind of like not being able to not watch a train wreck. This was a buddy read and we are all caught up in the characters, it's an interesting difference to read about a female killer. Looking forward to the next books and some answers.
November 4, 2008
Chelsea Cain's follow-up to her "Heartsick" reunites readers with Susan Ward, Archie Sheridan and serial killer Gretchen Lowell for a fast-paced story that works better if you just switch off your disbelief and just go with the story.
Picking up a few months after the end of "Heartsick," Archie has stopped visiting Gretchen, but remains obsessed with her. He's in the midst of trying to solve a case involving a body in a local park. Susan is hot on the trail of a story involving a local Senator who had an affair with the-then fourteen year old family babysitter. Just as her story is about to hit print, the Senator is killed along with a fellow journalist and her source has disappeared.
Freed of the need to introduce us to the world and characters of Archie and Susan, "Sweetheart" is able to dive into the story and never let up. The twists and turns come at a fast pace, keeping the pages turning. Eventually, all roads lead back to Gretchen Lowell and Archie's strange obsession with her. Cain provides a few more clues about the nature of their relationship and delves into what makes Archie tick.
The interesting thing about "Sweetheart" is that it's a story full of anti-heroes. Lowell is a killer, but she's a compelling and fascinating one. Archie is driven to self-destruction and is so absorbed in his own issues he can't or won't change to save himself or his family. And then there's Susan, who is secretly in love with Archie and trying to pursue the big story, despite who it may hurt or the consequences. These are real people, drawn well and while we shouldn't like any of them, we still find ourselves intrigued by them. Cain does a great job of allowing their motivations to be understood and while we may not always agree, their actions make sense based on clues provided early in the story.
And Cain does know how to tell a great story. I'll admit I wasn't as thrilled with "Sweetheart" as many others were, but this one had me hooked from the first page. A sequence in the middle of the book when Gretchen escapes and is potentially holding Archie's children at school had me breathlessly turning pages, wondering what twist would happen next.
Like I said, the story does require some huge leaps from the reader, especially as things progress toward the novel's conclusion. But if you're willing to suspend your disbelief at the door, you'll find a suspenseful ride.
Picking up a few months after the end of "Heartsick," Archie has stopped visiting Gretchen, but remains obsessed with her. He's in the midst of trying to solve a case involving a body in a local park. Susan is hot on the trail of a story involving a local Senator who had an affair with the-then fourteen year old family babysitter. Just as her story is about to hit print, the Senator is killed along with a fellow journalist and her source has disappeared.
Freed of the need to introduce us to the world and characters of Archie and Susan, "Sweetheart" is able to dive into the story and never let up. The twists and turns come at a fast pace, keeping the pages turning. Eventually, all roads lead back to Gretchen Lowell and Archie's strange obsession with her. Cain provides a few more clues about the nature of their relationship and delves into what makes Archie tick.
The interesting thing about "Sweetheart" is that it's a story full of anti-heroes. Lowell is a killer, but she's a compelling and fascinating one. Archie is driven to self-destruction and is so absorbed in his own issues he can't or won't change to save himself or his family. And then there's Susan, who is secretly in love with Archie and trying to pursue the big story, despite who it may hurt or the consequences. These are real people, drawn well and while we shouldn't like any of them, we still find ourselves intrigued by them. Cain does a great job of allowing their motivations to be understood and while we may not always agree, their actions make sense based on clues provided early in the story.
And Cain does know how to tell a great story. I'll admit I wasn't as thrilled with "Sweetheart" as many others were, but this one had me hooked from the first page. A sequence in the middle of the book when Gretchen escapes and is potentially holding Archie's children at school had me breathlessly turning pages, wondering what twist would happen next.
Like I said, the story does require some huge leaps from the reader, especially as things progress toward the novel's conclusion. But if you're willing to suspend your disbelief at the door, you'll find a suspenseful ride.
October 23, 2017
Fantastic!! Such an unusual serial killer.... I was enthralled through the entire book. No slow beginning, or getting lost with too many characters. Great conclusion with just enough enticement for you to search out the next novel.
Highly recommend for all mystery/thriller lovers!
Highly recommend for all mystery/thriller lovers!
October 29, 2016
Love her books, on to the next Evil at Heart.
February 13, 2009
In reality, this is probably worth 2.5 stars. On the upside, we get far more Gretchen-based plot in this book than we did in Heartsick. The other mystery is one that ties directly into the Molly Palmer/Senator Castle story that reporter Susan had been working on in Heartsick, so this time the side-plot made sense and had a purpose.
On the downside, Chelsea Cain nearly destroyed everything interesting about Archie Sheridan's attraction to Gretchen by revealing that they'd had an affair before she kidnapped and tortured him. Nevermind that it doesn't make sense within the plot of the first book, but it ruins what had been an fascinating Stockholm Syndrome case.
And, of course, Gretchen is STILL free at the end of the book, leaving the door open for yet another sequel, but I can't say I'll be interested in reading it.
On the downside, Chelsea Cain nearly destroyed everything interesting about Archie Sheridan's attraction to Gretchen by revealing that they'd had an affair before she kidnapped and tortured him. Nevermind that it doesn't make sense within the plot of the first book, but it ruins what had been an fascinating Stockholm Syndrome case.
And, of course, Gretchen is STILL free at the end of the book, leaving the door open for yet another sequel, but I can't say I'll be interested in reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2020
Wow for this second book! This book picked up where the first one left off. There was a little more action, more intrigue, and suspense!
Archie Sheridan is still trying to come to grips in his relationship with Gretchen Lowell a/k/a the serial killer as he tries to repair his relationship with his wife at the same time. Things go awry when Gretchen escapes prison and Archie is back out there trying to recapture her.
In the meantime, there is Senator Castle who is wrapped up in something that could cost him his career. Susan (the reporter) is trying to work on a murder case of Molly Palmer and Susan thinks the Senator is somehow involved. This is where the intrigue really kicks in as so much is happening all at the same time.
There is a lot of puzzles to solve and mysteries to find as the book kicks up a notch all the way to the end. There was a loop thrown near the end of the book that I didn't see coming which kept me glued to my kindle to get the book finished!
Chelsea Cain is an amazing author as she just wraps all the mysteries and suspense so tight into one book that I am giving this book five stars!
Archie Sheridan is still trying to come to grips in his relationship with Gretchen Lowell a/k/a the serial killer as he tries to repair his relationship with his wife at the same time. Things go awry when Gretchen escapes prison and Archie is back out there trying to recapture her.
In the meantime, there is Senator Castle who is wrapped up in something that could cost him his career. Susan (the reporter) is trying to work on a murder case of Molly Palmer and Susan thinks the Senator is somehow involved. This is where the intrigue really kicks in as so much is happening all at the same time.
There is a lot of puzzles to solve and mysteries to find as the book kicks up a notch all the way to the end. There was a loop thrown near the end of the book that I didn't see coming which kept me glued to my kindle to get the book finished!
Chelsea Cain is an amazing author as she just wraps all the mysteries and suspense so tight into one book that I am giving this book five stars!
January 21, 2023
Have you ever read a book that you couldn’t stop reading but you weren’t sure you really liked any of the characters? It’s good, it’s entertaining, and I had to know how it ended but I really don’t think I completely liked any of them! Kind of like real life sometimes. LOL. There were some shocking reveals in this one. I’m still speechless.
July 20, 2014
Posted to
Another Stunning Thriller - 5 Stars
I rarely have the sense that a novel is truly "thrilling". Despite claims that a story will keep me on the edge of my seat, I rarely experience the phenomenon. Sweetheart is one of the few books that truly left me feeling "thrilled". It is exciting, twisting and a down right good time.
Plot Outline
The lead character, Archie, is working toward a sense of normalcy. He has returned to live with his family, he no longer sees or speaks with Gretchen and he is weaning himself off the prescription medications. Due to his trauma, the standoff with breakdown is tenuous at best. As some strings of his sanity begin to fray, he is set into an emotional whirlwind as he learns that Gretchen has escaped from custody and she may seek to finish the job she has yet to complete.
Amidst the escape of Gretchen, Archie, with the input of his reporter friend, Susan Ward, must solve the mystery of some mysterious deaths and as well as the deaths of a beloved politician and reporter. As the storylines converge, the plot builds to an epic confrontation between the parties and secrets are revealed.
The Good
IT IS A RIDE!
The plot grabs you by the collar and pulls you in. The relationship between the cop, Archie and the killer, Gretchen continues to be compelling and riveting. The plot is filled with cat and mouse games, shadow games and mental games and ends with an exciting and unexpected conclusion. As in the first novel, the interesting relationship between Gretchen and Archie is a story unto itself. I found the multilayered plot to be interesting and exciting.
The author increases the action in this novel. While Heartsick moved at a brisk pace, this installment shifts into a higher gear.
You Want to Care
The characters are the true strength of this novel. The three major characters, Archie, Gretchen and Susan are well developed and interesting. I found myself taking an interest in each of the wellbeing. Beyond the big 3, the secondary characters are also well fleshed out. There in a tendency to avoid building characters in a face paced novels but Chelsea Cain has made sure to both build characters and keep the reader glued to the page.
The Bad
Jump the Gap
As the action picks up and the pace begins to quicken, there are some logical leaps and some unbelievable content. There are one or two dire situations that characters escape but are not clearly explained. That said, it is very minor complaint. The action and superb writing of Chelsea Cain win the day and make for an exciting and utterly readable novel.
Final Thoughts
Gretchen Lowell has become one of my favorite psychopaths. She is a memorable antagonist. I especially enjoy the two layered stories. The ongoing exploration and revelations of the experience between Gretchen and Arhice is captivating. I haven't read anything else that has this kind of messed up relationship and I am finding it to be very interesting. I highly recommend this series. Fans of strong character driven novels and psychological thrillers will find this series to be a winner.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 3.5
There is more sexual content in this novel than the previous. There are at least two moderately graphic sex scenes. While both were consensual, one involved elements that were unintentionally abusive. There were several occasions where persons were described in a nude state. These incidents were not sexual situations.
Language - 3
There is moderate use of mild obscenities and mild to moderate use of the f-word. I will admit that I was caught up in the thrill of the book and may have glazed over the adult language.
Violence - 3
Once again, violence is a central theme to the story but it is less graphic than the first novel. There is greater use of psychological abuse and power in this novel. There are multiple murder but they are only mildly graphic. One character does discuss elements of torture.
Another Stunning Thriller - 5 Stars
I rarely have the sense that a novel is truly "thrilling". Despite claims that a story will keep me on the edge of my seat, I rarely experience the phenomenon. Sweetheart is one of the few books that truly left me feeling "thrilled". It is exciting, twisting and a down right good time.
Plot Outline
The lead character, Archie, is working toward a sense of normalcy. He has returned to live with his family, he no longer sees or speaks with Gretchen and he is weaning himself off the prescription medications. Due to his trauma, the standoff with breakdown is tenuous at best. As some strings of his sanity begin to fray, he is set into an emotional whirlwind as he learns that Gretchen has escaped from custody and she may seek to finish the job she has yet to complete.
Amidst the escape of Gretchen, Archie, with the input of his reporter friend, Susan Ward, must solve the mystery of some mysterious deaths and as well as the deaths of a beloved politician and reporter. As the storylines converge, the plot builds to an epic confrontation between the parties and secrets are revealed.
The Good
IT IS A RIDE!
The plot grabs you by the collar and pulls you in. The relationship between the cop, Archie and the killer, Gretchen continues to be compelling and riveting. The plot is filled with cat and mouse games, shadow games and mental games and ends with an exciting and unexpected conclusion. As in the first novel, the interesting relationship between Gretchen and Archie is a story unto itself. I found the multilayered plot to be interesting and exciting.
The author increases the action in this novel. While Heartsick moved at a brisk pace, this installment shifts into a higher gear.
You Want to Care
The characters are the true strength of this novel. The three major characters, Archie, Gretchen and Susan are well developed and interesting. I found myself taking an interest in each of the wellbeing. Beyond the big 3, the secondary characters are also well fleshed out. There in a tendency to avoid building characters in a face paced novels but Chelsea Cain has made sure to both build characters and keep the reader glued to the page.
The Bad
Jump the Gap
As the action picks up and the pace begins to quicken, there are some logical leaps and some unbelievable content. There are one or two dire situations that characters escape but are not clearly explained. That said, it is very minor complaint. The action and superb writing of Chelsea Cain win the day and make for an exciting and utterly readable novel.
Final Thoughts
Gretchen Lowell has become one of my favorite psychopaths. She is a memorable antagonist. I especially enjoy the two layered stories. The ongoing exploration and revelations of the experience between Gretchen and Arhice is captivating. I haven't read anything else that has this kind of messed up relationship and I am finding it to be very interesting. I highly recommend this series. Fans of strong character driven novels and psychological thrillers will find this series to be a winner.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 3.5
There is more sexual content in this novel than the previous. There are at least two moderately graphic sex scenes. While both were consensual, one involved elements that were unintentionally abusive. There were several occasions where persons were described in a nude state. These incidents were not sexual situations.
Language - 3
There is moderate use of mild obscenities and mild to moderate use of the f-word. I will admit that I was caught up in the thrill of the book and may have glazed over the adult language.
Violence - 3
Once again, violence is a central theme to the story but it is less graphic than the first novel. There is greater use of psychological abuse and power in this novel. There are multiple murder but they are only mildly graphic. One character does discuss elements of torture.
August 9, 2011
Okay, I wrote a whole review for this, but it disappeared as I was trying to save it. I think that's ironic, given that it's probably the first time I've written such a negative review. Still, I will try to re-create it, though I've lost some of my original vehemence.
I'm going to be honest. I didn't actually finish this book. But unlike Archie Sheridan, I know when to stop doing something when it's making me feel bad. I started this book because I enjoyed the first one -- I liked the cast of characters, the setting, and, of course, the gruesome crimes. But most of all, I started this book because I wanted to see Archie overcome Gretchen and try to gain back his beautiful family, and at the end of Heartsick, it seemed like he was at least going to try. The sexual aspects of his relationship with Gretchen, only hinted at in the first book, were always the hardest parts for me to read. The extent to which Cain went in this book, as well as the revelation that they had an affair before he was kidnapped, actually made me furious. There is nothing compelling for me about these characters anymore -- not just Gretchen and Archie, but I only liked their relationship when it was subtle and nuanced. Archie, only half human to begin with, utterly lost my sympathy. I can't deny that there is something interesting about the aspects of human psychology that still drive him towards Gretchen, but I just stopped wanting to read about it. The motivations of so many of the characters never seemed more than two-dimensional, not least because Cain gives us so little background about them. But I could be wrong on that point since, again, I did not read the whole book. I just know that, for whatever reason, I identified most with Debbie right from the very start. And like her, I am so very done. But it's precisely because she's done that I have to be -- there's nothing fun about rooting for characters who have stopped giving you reason to root for them, or worse, who have stopped even rooting for themselves.
I'm going to be honest. I didn't actually finish this book. But unlike Archie Sheridan, I know when to stop doing something when it's making me feel bad. I started this book because I enjoyed the first one -- I liked the cast of characters, the setting, and, of course, the gruesome crimes. But most of all, I started this book because I wanted to see Archie overcome Gretchen and try to gain back his beautiful family, and at the end of Heartsick, it seemed like he was at least going to try. The sexual aspects of his relationship with Gretchen, only hinted at in the first book, were always the hardest parts for me to read. The extent to which Cain went in this book, as well as the revelation that they had an affair before he was kidnapped, actually made me furious. There is nothing compelling for me about these characters anymore -- not just Gretchen and Archie, but I only liked their relationship when it was subtle and nuanced. Archie, only half human to begin with, utterly lost my sympathy. I can't deny that there is something interesting about the aspects of human psychology that still drive him towards Gretchen, but I just stopped wanting to read about it. The motivations of so many of the characters never seemed more than two-dimensional, not least because Cain gives us so little background about them. But I could be wrong on that point since, again, I did not read the whole book. I just know that, for whatever reason, I identified most with Debbie right from the very start. And like her, I am so very done. But it's precisely because she's done that I have to be -- there's nothing fun about rooting for characters who have stopped giving you reason to root for them, or worse, who have stopped even rooting for themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2011
I have to say I almost gave up on the series after this book. I was about half way through it, riding in a car for hours on end, and trying not to vomit from the massively damaging spiral of Archie Sheridan's psyche and Gretchen Lowell's crazy ass hold over him. And also a little bit of carsickness. But not the point.
This book is the definitive be all end all of their catastrophic relationship. It builds, it terrorizes and it comes to a head in the middle that makes you want to throw the book across the room. Or the car. Whatever. It's massively annoying to watch someone self destruct in such an awful, blinding way that after about 200 pages you just want to give up, call it a day and let the guy spiral into a sucking black hole of bad decisions and disgusting consequences. It works out in the end, but barely. This one was rough to get through. Mostly because, while I understand Stockholm Syndrome and all the weird psychological messed up-ness that must come with being abducted, tortured, and sexually involved with someone who abducted and tortured you, I'll never be able to fully understand how you could willingly involve with yourself with someone who admittedly tortured and murdered over 200 people, including children. I just couldn't move past it. I don't care how long her damn legs are.
You really have to just grit your teeth and bear it through this one. It's worth it for the third and the fourth, trust me, so just slough through it and know that you get rewarded in the next installment, Evil at Heart. Also known as When Archie Gets His Big Boy Pants Back.
This book is the definitive be all end all of their catastrophic relationship. It builds, it terrorizes and it comes to a head in the middle that makes you want to throw the book across the room. Or the car. Whatever. It's massively annoying to watch someone self destruct in such an awful, blinding way that after about 200 pages you just want to give up, call it a day and let the guy spiral into a sucking black hole of bad decisions and disgusting consequences. It works out in the end, but barely. This one was rough to get through. Mostly because, while I understand Stockholm Syndrome and all the weird psychological messed up-ness that must come with being abducted, tortured, and sexually involved with someone who abducted and tortured you, I'll never be able to fully understand how you could willingly involve with yourself with someone who admittedly tortured and murdered over 200 people, including children. I just couldn't move past it. I don't care how long her damn legs are.
You really have to just grit your teeth and bear it through this one. It's worth it for the third and the fourth, trust me, so just slough through it and know that you get rewarded in the next installment, Evil at Heart. Also known as When Archie Gets His Big Boy Pants Back.
February 21, 2024
SWEETHEART [2008] By Chelsea Cain
(ARCHIE SHERIDAN & GRETCHEN LOWELL BOOK 2)
My Review 4.0 Stars Out Of 5
Archie is living with his ex-wife Debbie, and he is no longer going to the prison for visits to see Gretchen (ostensibly to induce Lowell to “give up� a victim or victim’s burial location to provide closure for the family). He is called to Portland’s Forest Park and the body of a female murder victim is located there. It had been thirteen years since the homicide investigation team had stood over a female victim’s body in the park. It had been the Beauty Killer’s first victim, and ironically Archie’s first case. It turned out to be so much more than that with the revelation of a prolific serial killer case, dubbed the “Beauty Killer.� Most shocking of all no one could have predicted that Archie would be abducted and tortured by the serial killer, who would become known by her real name Gretchen Lowell.
The body of the current female victim cannot be identified. Archie is called out on the homicide and his partner awaits. Archie is only going through the motions of being alive and half-well. He feels like pretending will be easier for his loved ones and friends to tolerate.
This second novel has an interesting and intricate murder case of its own to solve. Susan Ward is at a meet with veteran crime-beat reporter for the Herald Quentin Parker, her mentor and friend. Susan has documented testimony from a victim of sexual abuse when the girl was a 14-year-old employee. She plans on taking down a powerful political figure Senator Castle. Susan and Quentin wait to meet Senator Castle’s Attorney and it does not go well. Quentin reassures Susan and she trusts him explicitly. She has the Senator’s babysitter at the time Molly Palmer on record. This morphs into a multi-faceted murder case.
Archie had only been out of the hospital for a couple months and was still in early recovery from his narcotics for pain management. There is interesting information about exactly how that serial killer Gretchen Lowell managed to infiltrate the Task Force. It reminded me a bit of how Hannibal Lector was so helpful to mentor Graham when they were trying to catch Hannibal. This is a reference to the TV Series and not to the novel.
She [Gretchen Lowell] had been the first to suggest it may be a female serial killer. Interesting. Gretchen worked with the Task Force trying to capture her for six weeks prior to revealing her true self to Archie at her office.
There is some good stuff here about Susan and her abduction, and the suspected PTSD she still suffers. The “After School Stranger� had been caught by Archie, and Susan had spent considerable time with him while she worked on her exclusive. She was attracted to the older man. But Susan was aware that he was attempting to make things work with Brenda. Significantly he was likely still in the thrall of Gretchen.
Then there is a double-murder dressed up to look like a fatal car crash killing two. The victim’s body in the park had still not been identified but is critical to the case that Susan is in the middle of and in danger.
In the case of Archie and Gretchen, he becomes increasingly toxic as a result of the liquor in combination with the Vicodin. More specifically, he develops worsening liver toxicity because of the acetaminophen in the Vicodin and his liquor intake.
Incidentally there is some juicy background to the inaugural voyage of the unlikely “ship� of Archie and Gretchen, unlikely to be included in the first book I would think. Surprised me. For about 5 Seconds.
Gretchen escapes from custody…and no, it was not nearly as “rough� as Hannibal pulled on those Tennessee Police Guards---but it was impressive nevertheless. So, after Gretchen makes a run for it…Archie decides that he has a foolproof plan to catch her, period, so that back to lock up she goes. But what about Archie??? No plan is foolproof it seems�
The writing technique is excellent, the characters are well drawn. This novel had a complex multiple murder served up to solve and involved a sympathetic character we wanted to save and her get kudos for her major contributions and insights into the case.
My interest (curiosity?) in what makes Archie and Gretchen tick made me gloss over too fast which is my bad. It is a good book, and I would recommend it. I feel like I need to be locked up myself for not figuratively pulling “Heartsick� off my shelf instead of “Sweetheart.� I just have a feeling of wonder that it worked as well as it has with an impressive audience. We are talking a six-book series if I am not mistaken. I have to read that first book and check it out.
GETCHEN’S OUT AGAIN AND ARCHIE’S IN AGAIN----HER ARMS THAT IS!!!
(ARCHIE SHERIDAN & GRETCHEN LOWELL BOOK 2)
My Review 4.0 Stars Out Of 5
Archie is living with his ex-wife Debbie, and he is no longer going to the prison for visits to see Gretchen (ostensibly to induce Lowell to “give up� a victim or victim’s burial location to provide closure for the family). He is called to Portland’s Forest Park and the body of a female murder victim is located there. It had been thirteen years since the homicide investigation team had stood over a female victim’s body in the park. It had been the Beauty Killer’s first victim, and ironically Archie’s first case. It turned out to be so much more than that with the revelation of a prolific serial killer case, dubbed the “Beauty Killer.� Most shocking of all no one could have predicted that Archie would be abducted and tortured by the serial killer, who would become known by her real name Gretchen Lowell.
The body of the current female victim cannot be identified. Archie is called out on the homicide and his partner awaits. Archie is only going through the motions of being alive and half-well. He feels like pretending will be easier for his loved ones and friends to tolerate.
This second novel has an interesting and intricate murder case of its own to solve. Susan Ward is at a meet with veteran crime-beat reporter for the Herald Quentin Parker, her mentor and friend. Susan has documented testimony from a victim of sexual abuse when the girl was a 14-year-old employee. She plans on taking down a powerful political figure Senator Castle. Susan and Quentin wait to meet Senator Castle’s Attorney and it does not go well. Quentin reassures Susan and she trusts him explicitly. She has the Senator’s babysitter at the time Molly Palmer on record. This morphs into a multi-faceted murder case.
Archie had only been out of the hospital for a couple months and was still in early recovery from his narcotics for pain management. There is interesting information about exactly how that serial killer Gretchen Lowell managed to infiltrate the Task Force. It reminded me a bit of how Hannibal Lector was so helpful to mentor Graham when they were trying to catch Hannibal. This is a reference to the TV Series and not to the novel.
She [Gretchen Lowell] had been the first to suggest it may be a female serial killer. Interesting. Gretchen worked with the Task Force trying to capture her for six weeks prior to revealing her true self to Archie at her office.
There is some good stuff here about Susan and her abduction, and the suspected PTSD she still suffers. The “After School Stranger� had been caught by Archie, and Susan had spent considerable time with him while she worked on her exclusive. She was attracted to the older man. But Susan was aware that he was attempting to make things work with Brenda. Significantly he was likely still in the thrall of Gretchen.
Then there is a double-murder dressed up to look like a fatal car crash killing two. The victim’s body in the park had still not been identified but is critical to the case that Susan is in the middle of and in danger.
In the case of Archie and Gretchen, he becomes increasingly toxic as a result of the liquor in combination with the Vicodin. More specifically, he develops worsening liver toxicity because of the acetaminophen in the Vicodin and his liquor intake.
Incidentally there is some juicy background to the inaugural voyage of the unlikely “ship� of Archie and Gretchen, unlikely to be included in the first book I would think. Surprised me. For about 5 Seconds.
Gretchen escapes from custody…and no, it was not nearly as “rough� as Hannibal pulled on those Tennessee Police Guards---but it was impressive nevertheless. So, after Gretchen makes a run for it…Archie decides that he has a foolproof plan to catch her, period, so that back to lock up she goes. But what about Archie??? No plan is foolproof it seems�
The writing technique is excellent, the characters are well drawn. This novel had a complex multiple murder served up to solve and involved a sympathetic character we wanted to save and her get kudos for her major contributions and insights into the case.
My interest (curiosity?) in what makes Archie and Gretchen tick made me gloss over too fast which is my bad. It is a good book, and I would recommend it. I feel like I need to be locked up myself for not figuratively pulling “Heartsick� off my shelf instead of “Sweetheart.� I just have a feeling of wonder that it worked as well as it has with an impressive audience. We are talking a six-book series if I am not mistaken. I have to read that first book and check it out.
GETCHEN’S OUT AGAIN AND ARCHIE’S IN AGAIN----HER ARMS THAT IS!!!
July 7, 2011
Stephen King says about the first 2 books in series: "We've been down Hannibal Lecter Avenue many times, and these two books shouldn't work...but they do. Chalk it up to excellent writing and Cain's ferocious sense of humor. The Portland (Ore.) setting is refreshing too."
I really enjoyed this series and am looking forward to book 4. Evil and compelling female serial killer and interesting stockhold syndrome explored. Can get pretty gruesome at times, so not for the squeamish. Highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this series and am looking forward to book 4. Evil and compelling female serial killer and interesting stockhold syndrome explored. Can get pretty gruesome at times, so not for the squeamish. Highly recommended.
February 12, 2023
This series more plot holes than a slice of Swiss, but I can't quit it.
Sweetheart has two plotlines going. One of the victims from the first book returns here as a junior crime reporter for a small Oregonian daily. She's been digging into the skeezy history of a long-term senator, so imagine her shock when her mentor's car flies off a bridge in the middle of the night - with said senator in the passenger seat. What the what indeed.
Speaking of skeezy... all hell breaks loose (literally) when prolific and gorgeous serial killer Gretchen Lowell escapes custody during a prison transfer. Because the girl can't help it, she decides to mess with The One who got away (literally) by implying she's about to kidnap his two children. Archie Sheridan gets sucked right back into Gretchen's world. Good thing, too, cuz he missed her.
Okay, so this series operates on a steady level of ridiculous that's hard to top. Even knowing that, I'm still trying to wrap my brain around Archie's motivations here. Does he really want to capture her? Tbh, I have no clue - even after finishing this book. I'm also trying to figure out why so many people willingly do Gretchen's bidding. She's like Jim Jones saying stay calm and help yourself to some Kool-aid. Is she a sorceress? Does she have a gold-plated hooha? I'm at a loss to understand it, and Chelsea Cain isn't helping me out.
Even so, this series is candy-coated crack to me. Bring on Evil at Heart!
Sweetheart has two plotlines going. One of the victims from the first book returns here as a junior crime reporter for a small Oregonian daily. She's been digging into the skeezy history of a long-term senator, so imagine her shock when her mentor's car flies off a bridge in the middle of the night - with said senator in the passenger seat. What the what indeed.
Speaking of skeezy... all hell breaks loose (literally) when prolific and gorgeous serial killer Gretchen Lowell escapes custody during a prison transfer. Because the girl can't help it, she decides to mess with The One who got away (literally) by implying she's about to kidnap his two children. Archie Sheridan gets sucked right back into Gretchen's world. Good thing, too, cuz he missed her.
Okay, so this series operates on a steady level of ridiculous that's hard to top. Even knowing that, I'm still trying to wrap my brain around Archie's motivations here. Does he really want to capture her? Tbh, I have no clue - even after finishing this book. I'm also trying to figure out why so many people willingly do Gretchen's bidding. She's like Jim Jones saying stay calm and help yourself to some Kool-aid. Is she a sorceress? Does she have a gold-plated hooha? I'm at a loss to understand it, and Chelsea Cain isn't helping me out.
Even so, this series is candy-coated crack to me. Bring on Evil at Heart!
October 14, 2017
Decent sequel to something special but nothing memorable.
Archie’s relationship with Gretchen Lowell is the most twisted in the crime thriller genre. It pushes the love/hate tension to its extremes. But there wasn’t enough Gretchen in this book.
I’m glad the senator Castle side plot resolved itself. I wanted justice but it was getting boring.
It was enormously disappointing that the ensemble cast dynamic, that had such promise, evaporated.
Regardless of the series title I don’t see Gretchen being a main character from now on which leaves Archie, Henry, and Susan. I’m not sure that’s enough for me so Book 3 is on the way back burner.
September 5, 2015
Sick book, like its predecessor, which is why it took me 5 years to finally borrow this one. I again found the storyline very deranged and gruesome, and a little hard to believe. Many opportunities to end the terror presented themselves, and still the characters failed to latch onto those opportunities. Surely the reason for that was so that #3 in the series could be published, yet I am not sure I will latch onto that opportunity. Except that I do own that book, and Archie sort of fascinates me, so maybe in another 5 years. Maybe.
March 31, 2013
This was another great installment to the Heartsick series. I enjoyed it a great deal. I am thinking that Cain is growing as an author the more she writes this series, and I expect that the rest of the series will be awesome. At first I thought this book was gonna be very predictable, but it ended up not being that way at all.
I really liked Susan in this book, she is growing and becoming much more likeable. She still makes some stupid mistakes but she is getting there. I think Cain is doing well with her development. I look forward to her in the rest of the series.
Archie, well he is just Archie. He wants his cake and eat it too. I thought his decent into madness and obsession was very sad. And although he did not reach his ultimate goals, I thought that is was well written. I caught myself wondering what Cain would do if she were to write Archie out. Where would she go with the story. Giving this one a solid 4 stars.
I really liked Susan in this book, she is growing and becoming much more likeable. She still makes some stupid mistakes but she is getting there. I think Cain is doing well with her development. I look forward to her in the rest of the series.
Archie, well he is just Archie. He wants his cake and eat it too. I thought his decent into madness and obsession was very sad. And although he did not reach his ultimate goals, I thought that is was well written. I caught myself wondering what Cain would do if she were to write Archie out. Where would she go with the story. Giving this one a solid 4 stars.
March 31, 2020
Well it looks like I have a new series that I will devourer! Even though I started with the 2nd novel in the series, I don't feel that I missed anything from the 1st novel.
It's really interesting that this series is about Archie (detective) and Gretchen (serial killer who was captured 2 years ago). Even though it's totally screwed up, I was so interested in the relationship between Archie and Gretchen. It goes to show that even though the traumatic event may be over, it can still hold you for years to come and impact every part of your life.
I also enjoyed the main mystery of the novel, even though the conclusion took a back seat to the Archie/Gretchen storyline. I would of liked there to be more investigation work to find the killer instead of it being mentioned at the end of the novel.
Now to go back to the start of the series and read the 1st novel!
It's really interesting that this series is about Archie (detective) and Gretchen (serial killer who was captured 2 years ago). Even though it's totally screwed up, I was so interested in the relationship between Archie and Gretchen. It goes to show that even though the traumatic event may be over, it can still hold you for years to come and impact every part of your life.
I also enjoyed the main mystery of the novel, even though the conclusion took a back seat to the Archie/Gretchen storyline. I would of liked there to be more investigation work to find the killer instead of it being mentioned at the end of the novel.
Now to go back to the start of the series and read the 1st novel!
September 3, 2018
This gave me what I wanted out of book 1, more Gretchen. She is incredibly manipulative and Archie is too mentally ill to resist her. I don't enjoy the main story as much as I do Gretchen and Archie's by play. I'll probably just read the last book and see how it all ends.
January 21, 2016
Loved this book for the same reasons I loved the first.
The relationship between Gretchen and Archie is exceptionally well done. There is something about flawed characters who are aware of their flaws that is compelling. The supporting characters are also interesting.
I read quite a bit and as a result often see the plot twists coming, but Cain somehow managed to surprise me (and more than once) in this sequel to Heartsick.
The only weakness is the convergence of the background stories, which is choke-full of coincidence (similar to the first in that respect), but I was so invested in the characters and their story that the background story's flaws seemed less important.
I could see this being adapted by HBO. The chemistry between the characters is absolutely phenomenal and something that I value in a book.
I haven't been this excited about a series in a long time, and I can't wait to read the third book in the series.
The relationship between Gretchen and Archie is exceptionally well done. There is something about flawed characters who are aware of their flaws that is compelling. The supporting characters are also interesting.
I read quite a bit and as a result often see the plot twists coming, but Cain somehow managed to surprise me (and more than once) in this sequel to Heartsick.
The only weakness is the convergence of the background stories, which is choke-full of coincidence (similar to the first in that respect), but I was so invested in the characters and their story that the background story's flaws seemed less important.
I could see this being adapted by HBO. The chemistry between the characters is absolutely phenomenal and something that I value in a book.
I haven't been this excited about a series in a long time, and I can't wait to read the third book in the series.
October 14, 2021
3 stars. I had a bit of a problem suspending my disbelief at this book, but still it's a great popcorn read.
August 8, 2018
Loved
February 7, 2017
For the first half (or so) of this, I was relatively happy reading this, knowing it was a silly, trashy, OTT American crime thriller. Generic and predictable, full of cliché, but nevertheless a decent enough amusement.
In the end though, the second half p*ssed me off somewhat and I have ended up putting the book in my pile to take to the charity shop at my earliest opportunity. Life is too short to read such poor examples of the genre - examples which trot out every stereotype on the block (grizzled male detective with family and drink/drug problems, spunky young 'alternative' female journalist who is on the periphery of being a love interest, calculating and super intelligent manipulative psychopath killer who delights in teasing the police trying to catch them) and a plot which features ridiculous co-incidence after ridiculous co-incidence introduced in the perfect order to drive the story on. There was a lot of focus on lust and romance causing bad choice after bad choice (but not a lot on the emotions like love for one's family which would prevent stupid risk-taking) and too much description of everyone's appearances for my liking.
This read like Chelsea Cain was trying to combine a Hannibal Lecktor 'lite' with an erotic thriller, and in the end it just didn't work for me. Plus the ending was unbelievable and stunk of the book being #2 of a three book deal.
In the end though, the second half p*ssed me off somewhat and I have ended up putting the book in my pile to take to the charity shop at my earliest opportunity. Life is too short to read such poor examples of the genre - examples which trot out every stereotype on the block (grizzled male detective with family and drink/drug problems, spunky young 'alternative' female journalist who is on the periphery of being a love interest, calculating and super intelligent manipulative psychopath killer who delights in teasing the police trying to catch them) and a plot which features ridiculous co-incidence after ridiculous co-incidence introduced in the perfect order to drive the story on. There was a lot of focus on lust and romance causing bad choice after bad choice (but not a lot on the emotions like love for one's family which would prevent stupid risk-taking) and too much description of everyone's appearances for my liking.
This read like Chelsea Cain was trying to combine a Hannibal Lecktor 'lite' with an erotic thriller, and in the end it just didn't work for me. Plus the ending was unbelievable and stunk of the book being #2 of a three book deal.
October 7, 2018
2nd reading - Talk about a toxic relationship. Archie, former leader of a task force looking for a serial killer, becomes her prey in the previous novel. After dying, and being brought back by the "Beauty Killer", he visits her regularly in prison to put to bed the ghosts of her other, unsolved murders and victims. Even through the vile incidents, the characters, including Archie, Susan, Debbie, and Henry, retain their humanity. Excellent writing, and the twists and humor made me want to pick it back up every time I laid it down.
Even better than the first "Archie/Gretchen" book. Some excellent twists and turns, and decidedly dastardly!
Even better than the first "Archie/Gretchen" book. Some excellent twists and turns, and decidedly dastardly!
May 16, 2016
Gretchen is a psyco and she is taking Archie right along with her. I'm almost scared to pick up the next book to see where this crazy story goes.
But of course I will.
But of course I will.
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