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Stephanie Plum #12
Twelve Sharp
Welcome to Trenton, New Jersey, where bounty hunter Stephanie Plum's life is about to implode in Janet Evanovich's wildest, hottest novel yet !
FIRST A STRANGER APPEARS
While chasing down the usual cast of miscreants and weirdos Stephanie discovers that a crazed woman is stalking her.
THEN THE STRANGER REVEALS HER SECRETS
The woman dresses in black, carries a 9mm Glock, and has a bad attitude and a mysterious connection to dark and dangerous Carlos Manoso …street name, Ranger.
NEXT, SOMEBODY DIES
The action turns deadly serious, and Stephanie goes from hunting skips to hunting a murderer.
SOON, THE CHASE IS ON
Ranger needs Stephanie for more reasons than he can say. And now, the two are working together to find a killer, rescue a missing child, and stop a lunatic from raising the body count. When Stephanie Plum and Ranger get too close for comfort, vice cop Joe Morelli (her on-again, off-again boyfriend) steps in.
Will the ticking clock stop at the stroke of twelve, or will a stranger in the wind find a way to stop Stephanie Plum…forever? Filled with Janet Evanovich's trademark action, nonstop adventure, and sharp humor, Twelve Sharp shows why her novels have been called "hot stuff" ( The New York Times ), and Evanovich herself "the master" ( San Francisco Examiner ).
FIRST A STRANGER APPEARS
While chasing down the usual cast of miscreants and weirdos Stephanie discovers that a crazed woman is stalking her.
THEN THE STRANGER REVEALS HER SECRETS
The woman dresses in black, carries a 9mm Glock, and has a bad attitude and a mysterious connection to dark and dangerous Carlos Manoso …street name, Ranger.
NEXT, SOMEBODY DIES
The action turns deadly serious, and Stephanie goes from hunting skips to hunting a murderer.
SOON, THE CHASE IS ON
Ranger needs Stephanie for more reasons than he can say. And now, the two are working together to find a killer, rescue a missing child, and stop a lunatic from raising the body count. When Stephanie Plum and Ranger get too close for comfort, vice cop Joe Morelli (her on-again, off-again boyfriend) steps in.
Will the ticking clock stop at the stroke of twelve, or will a stranger in the wind find a way to stop Stephanie Plum…forever? Filled with Janet Evanovich's trademark action, nonstop adventure, and sharp humor, Twelve Sharp shows why her novels have been called "hot stuff" ( The New York Times ), and Evanovich herself "the master" ( San Francisco Examiner ).
310 pages, Hardcover
First published June 20, 2006
About the author
Janet Evanovich
272 books39.2k followersJanet Evanovich is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Stephanie Plum series, the Lizzy and Diesel series, twelve romance novels, the Alexandra Barnaby novels and Trouble Maker graphic novel, and How I Write: Secrets of a Bestselling Author, as well as the Fox and O'Hare series with co-author Lee Goldberg.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,669 reviews
April 30, 2023
Book Review
4 out of 5 stars to Twelve Sharp, the 12th book in the "Stephanie Plum" cozy mystery series written in 2006 by Janet Evanovich. I really enjoyed this book, given its focus on the mysterious Ranger. Stephanie is being stalked. She's not sure who it is, but the person is scary. She soon learns out this person has a connection to Ranger -- it's his ex-wife. At the same time, Ranger's daughter has been kidnapped, and someone suspects he's behind it all. But for what reason? As the book progresses, you learn how much Stephanie Plum is really torn up about Ranger, despite her feelings for Joe Morelli. While the back and forth is starting to bug me (which man will she choose!), given Ranger is my favorite character, it was a strong book full of information and subtle vibes. And sometimes not so subtle! Always a good book to curl up with on the couch, this won't disappoint. And at least it's a bit different from the normal shenanigans where Plum is trying to track down a kooky bail jumper. There's plenty of things happening here tho... between underlying tensions, fear and confusion, she's still her normal fun mess!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate it.
4 out of 5 stars to Twelve Sharp, the 12th book in the "Stephanie Plum" cozy mystery series written in 2006 by Janet Evanovich. I really enjoyed this book, given its focus on the mysterious Ranger. Stephanie is being stalked. She's not sure who it is, but the person is scary. She soon learns out this person has a connection to Ranger -- it's his ex-wife. At the same time, Ranger's daughter has been kidnapped, and someone suspects he's behind it all. But for what reason? As the book progresses, you learn how much Stephanie Plum is really torn up about Ranger, despite her feelings for Joe Morelli. While the back and forth is starting to bug me (which man will she choose!), given Ranger is my favorite character, it was a strong book full of information and subtle vibes. And sometimes not so subtle! Always a good book to curl up with on the couch, this won't disappoint. And at least it's a bit different from the normal shenanigans where Plum is trying to track down a kooky bail jumper. There's plenty of things happening here tho... between underlying tensions, fear and confusion, she's still her normal fun mess!
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate it.
October 22, 2011
Yes, they are formulaic. Yes, they are light. Yes, they don’t challenge you. Well, so what. They’re a lot of fun. I’ve read all of the Stephanie Plum series, and I enjoy the formula, the humor, and the zany family (Grandma Mazur’s passion for funeral viewings is hysterically the opposite of the revulsion most of us have for such events.) I sooo empathize with Stephanie’s father who is just trying to hold it together in the presence of Grandma Mazur, who, having shot the Thanksgiving turkey with a .45 in a previous book, has now joined Lula’s band as a singer visiting retirement homes. They decide to practice at Stephanie’s during dinner and all Dad wants to do is watch the Yankees, but the noise, the costumes (Grandma is wearing a studded color and an ice cream cone bra, you get the picture) are driving him to a state Morelli can only describe as similar to victims of a multiple vehicle accident. Very funny scene. The only thing worrying me is that I suspect Grandma Mazur isn’t much older than I. That truly sucks.
In this volume, a Ranger wanna-be is stalking him and kidnaps his daughter, trying to become a pseudo-Ranger. He’s killing people who get in the way; but who cares about the plot. We read these for quirky and very funny characters.
A final note. Several of the one-star reviewers on Amazon complained that Stephanie was immoral and needs to stop sleeping with both Ranger and Morelli. That’s interesting because I had the sense (and my wife agrees) that that is not at all the case and that she has remained faithful to Morelli. Yes, in this one she “sleeps” with Ranger, but only literally and Platonicly. So to those who think Stephanie is immoral, get over it and go back to your Harlequins.
In this volume, a Ranger wanna-be is stalking him and kidnaps his daughter, trying to become a pseudo-Ranger. He’s killing people who get in the way; but who cares about the plot. We read these for quirky and very funny characters.
A final note. Several of the one-star reviewers on Amazon complained that Stephanie was immoral and needs to stop sleeping with both Ranger and Morelli. That’s interesting because I had the sense (and my wife agrees) that that is not at all the case and that she has remained faithful to Morelli. Yes, in this one she “sleeps” with Ranger, but only literally and Platonicly. So to those who think Stephanie is immoral, get over it and go back to your Harlequins.
May 11, 2016
Lots of Ranger in one of these books always makes me give an extra star. He is dark, mysterious, alpha in a good way, and sexy AF. His looks get compared to Ricky Martin in this book and it was written in 2006. Here's Ricky in 2006:
okay, I can work with that.
So, in this book Stephanie is trying to help Ranger clear his name and is working as bait for the bad guy. She is on the phone with Morelli:
"I was getting read to go to bed," Morelli said. "I don't suppose you want to join me?"
"That would be nice, but I have to stay here and hope there's an attempt made to kidnap me."
"Other men have girlfriends with safe normal jobs," Morelli said. "Like swallowing swords and getting shot out of a cannon."
Hmmm, so Morelli considers Stephanie his girlfriend? It seems reasonable since they are really really together. And yet, Stephanie is often kissing Ranger. So, she's crossing lines all over the place. But, there are always reasons why it's not really her fault because Ranger kisses her, or whatever, so maybe we are supposed to be okay with it even though she got divorced the first time because her husband cheated on her. You would think that this would make her not want to do that to someone else. But, you would think wrong! Because, Stephanie and Ranger cross a line in this book that has them naked in her bed while Morelli is knocking on the door. Bad Stephanie! She needs to either break it off with Joe or send Ranger over to my house or something so she won't be tempted anymore.
okay, I can work with that.
So, in this book Stephanie is trying to help Ranger clear his name and is working as bait for the bad guy. She is on the phone with Morelli:
"I was getting read to go to bed," Morelli said. "I don't suppose you want to join me?"
"That would be nice, but I have to stay here and hope there's an attempt made to kidnap me."
"Other men have girlfriends with safe normal jobs," Morelli said. "Like swallowing swords and getting shot out of a cannon."
Hmmm, so Morelli considers Stephanie his girlfriend? It seems reasonable since they are really really together. And yet, Stephanie is often kissing Ranger. So, she's crossing lines all over the place. But, there are always reasons why it's not really her fault because Ranger kisses her, or whatever, so maybe we are supposed to be okay with it even though she got divorced the first time because her husband cheated on her. You would think that this would make her not want to do that to someone else. But, you would think wrong! Because, Stephanie and Ranger cross a line in this book that has them naked in her bed while Morelli is knocking on the door. Bad Stephanie! She needs to either break it off with Joe or send Ranger over to my house or something so she won't be tempted anymore.
April 14, 2022
Stephanie Plum bounty hunter and a quirky cast of characters made for an entertaining read. It's been a long time since I've actually laughed out loud while reading a book. As an added bonus this was a hardcover freebie from my local thrift shop.
February 20, 2023
Twelve Sharp (Stephanie Plum #12) by Janet Evanovich
Synopsis /
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is spending her days chasing down the usual cast of losers and weirdos. Until, that is, the tables are turned and now someone's after her. The mysterious stalker, a crazed woman dressed in black, carries a Glock and has a secret connection to the dark and dangerous Ranger. Suddenly, the action turns deadly serious and Stephanie goes from hunting skips to hunting a murderer. The chase is one and Ranger and Stephanie must work together to find the killer, rescue a missing child and stop a rapidly rising body count. But they're getting too close for comfort - what will Joe Morrelli, Stephanie's on-again, off-again boyfriend, have to say?
My Thoughts /
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is back for another fast paced, madcap, chaotic, and donut fuelled adventure in Twelve Sharp. With currently twenty-nine books in the series, it’s heartening to know there is a lot more fun and craziness to come! I’ll be spilling cinnamon sugar and icing onto my kindle for a while yet!!
Yes, yes, I know - the plots are all basically the same - Stephanie Plum, bounty hunter and fast-food aficionado, blunders along with varying degrees of success and high degrees of mayhem, then ends up capturing her FTA. However, none of it matters to Evanovich fans as her books are all distinctly different in their own unique way, but each is peppered with your favourite (crazy) original characters and new even crazier ones, and plenty of Stephanie's cars blowing up in the process. And viewings. Lots and lots of viewings!
Some communities have country clubs, some have senior centres, some have shopping malls and movie theatres. The Burg has two funeral parlours. Only Thursday night bingo occasionally draws a bigger crowd than a well-run viewing in the Burg.
Now, if you were thinking that you might like to try your hand at a little bail bonding, let me just drop this little snippet here……Over the course of her career, Stephanie has been spat on, cursed at, shot at, firebombed, and stalked by crazed killers. And I’ve lost count of how many of her cars have been set on fire or exploded. There has been more than a person’s fair share of open casket viewings (thanks to Grandma Mazur); way too much spandex being stretched, and donuts being demolished – all in the name of fugitive apprehension.
Twelve Sharp is no different. There is the usual collection of eccentric FTAs which Stephanie and Lula have to chase down and convince to reschedule their court dates. In Twelve Sharp we are introduced to Melvin Pickle. Melvin has been branded a pervert, because he got caught trying to (ahem) self-satisfy himself in a movie theatre. Financially skint and scared still of going to jail; Melvin enters into an agreement with Connie to work in the Bond Office as a filing clerk, in an effort to make a good impression for the Judge. Turns out, Melvin is a filing whizz and is on his best behaviour in the office.
Returning characters include: Joyce Barnhardt; Sally Sweet, and Grandma Mazur. And Morelli. And Ranger. In this instalment Ranger has more of a presence, as a man claiming to be Ranger kidnaps Ranger's ten-year-old daughter, Julie, then tries to steal Ranger's identity. To solve this crime, roles will need to be reversed and Stephanie must step-up and put her life on the line for Ranger. As in previous books, their relationship remains extremely complex - brimming with sexual tension, there is also smatterings of bafflement, amusement, and loads of confusion. Stephanie's some-time partner Lula makes her mark in this one, by joining up with Sally Sweet to sing in a band. In true Lula fashion, there's plenty of spandex, leather, and feathers; lots of gyrating of hips, pouting of lips; but not much singing going on! The Rolling Stones references were well done.
Like the previous eleven novels, I finished this one with a smile on my face and contentment in my heart. All is right with the world, if I can enjoy a Stephanie Plum novel once in a while.
Synopsis /
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is spending her days chasing down the usual cast of losers and weirdos. Until, that is, the tables are turned and now someone's after her. The mysterious stalker, a crazed woman dressed in black, carries a Glock and has a secret connection to the dark and dangerous Ranger. Suddenly, the action turns deadly serious and Stephanie goes from hunting skips to hunting a murderer. The chase is one and Ranger and Stephanie must work together to find the killer, rescue a missing child and stop a rapidly rising body count. But they're getting too close for comfort - what will Joe Morrelli, Stephanie's on-again, off-again boyfriend, have to say?
My Thoughts /
Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is back for another fast paced, madcap, chaotic, and donut fuelled adventure in Twelve Sharp. With currently twenty-nine books in the series, it’s heartening to know there is a lot more fun and craziness to come! I’ll be spilling cinnamon sugar and icing onto my kindle for a while yet!!
Yes, yes, I know - the plots are all basically the same - Stephanie Plum, bounty hunter and fast-food aficionado, blunders along with varying degrees of success and high degrees of mayhem, then ends up capturing her FTA. However, none of it matters to Evanovich fans as her books are all distinctly different in their own unique way, but each is peppered with your favourite (crazy) original characters and new even crazier ones, and plenty of Stephanie's cars blowing up in the process. And viewings. Lots and lots of viewings!
Some communities have country clubs, some have senior centres, some have shopping malls and movie theatres. The Burg has two funeral parlours. Only Thursday night bingo occasionally draws a bigger crowd than a well-run viewing in the Burg.
Now, if you were thinking that you might like to try your hand at a little bail bonding, let me just drop this little snippet here……Over the course of her career, Stephanie has been spat on, cursed at, shot at, firebombed, and stalked by crazed killers. And I’ve lost count of how many of her cars have been set on fire or exploded. There has been more than a person’s fair share of open casket viewings (thanks to Grandma Mazur); way too much spandex being stretched, and donuts being demolished – all in the name of fugitive apprehension.
Twelve Sharp is no different. There is the usual collection of eccentric FTAs which Stephanie and Lula have to chase down and convince to reschedule their court dates. In Twelve Sharp we are introduced to Melvin Pickle. Melvin has been branded a pervert, because he got caught trying to (ahem) self-satisfy himself in a movie theatre. Financially skint and scared still of going to jail; Melvin enters into an agreement with Connie to work in the Bond Office as a filing clerk, in an effort to make a good impression for the Judge. Turns out, Melvin is a filing whizz and is on his best behaviour in the office.
Returning characters include: Joyce Barnhardt; Sally Sweet, and Grandma Mazur. And Morelli. And Ranger. In this instalment Ranger has more of a presence, as a man claiming to be Ranger kidnaps Ranger's ten-year-old daughter, Julie, then tries to steal Ranger's identity. To solve this crime, roles will need to be reversed and Stephanie must step-up and put her life on the line for Ranger. As in previous books, their relationship remains extremely complex - brimming with sexual tension, there is also smatterings of bafflement, amusement, and loads of confusion. Stephanie's some-time partner Lula makes her mark in this one, by joining up with Sally Sweet to sing in a band. In true Lula fashion, there's plenty of spandex, leather, and feathers; lots of gyrating of hips, pouting of lips; but not much singing going on! The Rolling Stones references were well done.
Like the previous eleven novels, I finished this one with a smile on my face and contentment in my heart. All is right with the world, if I can enjoy a Stephanie Plum novel once in a while.
November 24, 2007
From a blog post I wrote in 2006:
I readily admit my OCD tendencies and one of the stronger ones is that I hate putting a good book down until it's done.
Twelve Sharp is a good book.
I started reading around 10:30 last night and finished up around 1:30 this morning. I did look at the clock several times and contemplated going to sleep but sleep was not nearly as compelling as finishing the book.
Sometimes, series tend to get old and the characters stale. Not so in this series. Stephanie, while still far from the best bounty hunter around, is getting better at her job. There are always new characters who add to the story and the recurring characters have stories of their own so it's not always just about Stephanie, Joe and Ranger.
Hmmmmm, Ranger.
The summary: Ranger becomes a nationally wanted man after it's reported that he kidnapped his daughter from her Mother and Stepfather. Stephanie hides him out and helps him in his quest to clear his name and rescue the girl. Along the way, we have the expected, and entertaining, funeral home stories, Lulu and Grandma shenanigans, less than stellar skip captures and we learn more about Ranger.
Hmmmmm, Ranger.
Evanovich does a great job of balancing the humor (lots of stun gunning (trust me, it's funny), Stephanie falling down, Stephanie getting tackled, Lulu busting out of her clothes, etc.) with a mystery that has a very menacing feel about it. You don't ever expect that Stephanie's going to be killed off at any moment but you also don't expect she'll emerge from her adventures fully unscathed, either.
I readily admit my OCD tendencies and one of the stronger ones is that I hate putting a good book down until it's done.
Twelve Sharp is a good book.
I started reading around 10:30 last night and finished up around 1:30 this morning. I did look at the clock several times and contemplated going to sleep but sleep was not nearly as compelling as finishing the book.
Sometimes, series tend to get old and the characters stale. Not so in this series. Stephanie, while still far from the best bounty hunter around, is getting better at her job. There are always new characters who add to the story and the recurring characters have stories of their own so it's not always just about Stephanie, Joe and Ranger.
Hmmmmm, Ranger.
The summary: Ranger becomes a nationally wanted man after it's reported that he kidnapped his daughter from her Mother and Stepfather. Stephanie hides him out and helps him in his quest to clear his name and rescue the girl. Along the way, we have the expected, and entertaining, funeral home stories, Lulu and Grandma shenanigans, less than stellar skip captures and we learn more about Ranger.
Hmmmmm, Ranger.
Evanovich does a great job of balancing the humor (lots of stun gunning (trust me, it's funny), Stephanie falling down, Stephanie getting tackled, Lulu busting out of her clothes, etc.) with a mystery that has a very menacing feel about it. You don't ever expect that Stephanie's going to be killed off at any moment but you also don't expect she'll emerge from her adventures fully unscathed, either.
January 28, 2022
Stephanie seems to be getting better at the bounty hunter thing, but still has enough issues to make her takedowns humorous. She actually kicks in a couple doors. I do kind of wish she would learn how to pick locks though. All the usual folks are here also to add to the fun and a few new ones show up.
Janet Evanovich uses this book to flesh out the Ranger character. He's not just a batman like personality that simply pops up when he's needed. I definitely enjoyed that part of the novel.
Poor Stephanie has a problem now. She realizes that she actually loves both Joe and Ranger, she's not just in lust. Oh, to have such a dilemma.
I still love the series. The books are cute, funny, and light. As long as the books keep coming, I'll keep reading.
Janet Evanovich uses this book to flesh out the Ranger character. He's not just a batman like personality that simply pops up when he's needed. I definitely enjoyed that part of the novel.
Poor Stephanie has a problem now. She realizes that she actually loves both Joe and Ranger, she's not just in lust. Oh, to have such a dilemma.
I still love the series. The books are cute, funny, and light. As long as the books keep coming, I'll keep reading.
June 12, 2022
Stephanie Plum is up to her usual tricks, when Ranger all but disappears.
There's a missing child, and a lot more dead bodies than usual piling up. It turns out Ranger has a doppelganger who wants to take his place.
Not bad, does make me glad I don't live in New Jersey.
There's a missing child, and a lot more dead bodies than usual piling up. It turns out Ranger has a doppelganger who wants to take his place.
Not bad, does make me glad I don't live in New Jersey.
August 3, 2011
At first I was pretty disappointed in Twelve Sharp because it wasn't hilarious. All of the other Stephanie Plum novels were super funny.
I gave book #12 5 stars because of the following:
1. Stephanie used some of her Bounty Hunter woman power. She didn't seem so helpless and kicked a little butt.
2. We actually learn some interesting facts about Ranger. YAAYY!
3. Stephanie tells a certain someone she LOVES him, not just l-l-likes him ; )
4. An important character gets severly hurt, which usually never happens. Tons of people have died in previous books, but usually the main characters get away pretty well off. Which in't to say I was happy about that person hurt, it just made the story a whole lot better.
I gave book #12 5 stars because of the following:
1. Stephanie used some of her Bounty Hunter woman power. She didn't seem so helpless and kicked a little butt.
2. We actually learn some interesting facts about Ranger. YAAYY!
3. Stephanie tells a certain someone she LOVES him, not just l-l-likes him ; )
4. An important character gets severly hurt, which usually never happens. Tons of people have died in previous books, but usually the main characters get away pretty well off. Which in't to say I was happy about that person hurt, it just made the story a whole lot better.
December 1, 2015
If there is one thing you can count on with the Stephanie Plum series, it is that you are going to have a laugh until your stomach hurts, good time.
I adore this series. It has it all, tension filled romance, yummy and hilarious side characters that are every bit as hilarious as they are swoon worthy, action, humor, and most of all, it is just freaking fun and one I turn to time and time again.
While this twelve installment is just as funny, just as good as all the others, it is also a little more serious than what we are use to but in a really good way. The stakes are higher, lives are on the line and this time, those lives, are people we know and love.
I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful this was and how it gave me exactly what I needed (a reading pick me up) just when I needed it.
Between crazy Grandma M and Lula who I adore (oh my gosh the rock n' roll band and thongs! Seriously enough said, just read it already!) , and the sexy Ranger and Morelli, this series really does deliver on all counts of fun.
If you haven't tried this series yet and need a lighter but still mystery filled, action packed, humor ridden, heart pounding good time, try this series. I don't think you will be disappointed, at. All.
I adore this series. It has it all, tension filled romance, yummy and hilarious side characters that are every bit as hilarious as they are swoon worthy, action, humor, and most of all, it is just freaking fun and one I turn to time and time again.
While this twelve installment is just as funny, just as good as all the others, it is also a little more serious than what we are use to but in a really good way. The stakes are higher, lives are on the line and this time, those lives, are people we know and love.
I can't even begin to tell you how wonderful this was and how it gave me exactly what I needed (a reading pick me up) just when I needed it.
Between crazy Grandma M and Lula who I adore (oh my gosh the rock n' roll band and thongs! Seriously enough said, just read it already!) , and the sexy Ranger and Morelli, this series really does deliver on all counts of fun.
If you haven't tried this series yet and need a lighter but still mystery filled, action packed, humor ridden, heart pounding good time, try this series. I don't think you will be disappointed, at. All.
July 19, 2017
:: 4.5 Smokin Stars ::
As with any Evanovich novel I was hooked from page 1 all the way until the end. I can never get enough of Stephanie Plum, Grandma Mazur, and Lula. Once again, this book is jam packed with laughs, fun, and gun yielding woman (amongst other crazies). Readers cannot get enough of Stephanie’s eccentric family; specifically, grandma Mazur trying to open the closed casket on her favorite night of the week- funeral viewings. Some people ask if the stories ever get old? No they don’t. These reads are meant to be light and fun. Some also ask whether the lack of character development in Stephanie gets annoying? Again, the answer is no. When she is ready, she will pick a man… I hope. And if she “grew” any more than I can hardly believe she would be the same as she is in these books. This is another hit in the series (which is by far, one of my favorite series of all time). If you haven’t read it yet, start with One for the Money. I am sure you will get just as hooked as I was!
As with any Evanovich novel I was hooked from page 1 all the way until the end. I can never get enough of Stephanie Plum, Grandma Mazur, and Lula. Once again, this book is jam packed with laughs, fun, and gun yielding woman (amongst other crazies). Readers cannot get enough of Stephanie’s eccentric family; specifically, grandma Mazur trying to open the closed casket on her favorite night of the week- funeral viewings. Some people ask if the stories ever get old? No they don’t. These reads are meant to be light and fun. Some also ask whether the lack of character development in Stephanie gets annoying? Again, the answer is no. When she is ready, she will pick a man… I hope. And if she “grew” any more than I can hardly believe she would be the same as she is in these books. This is another hit in the series (which is by far, one of my favorite series of all time). If you haven’t read it yet, start with One for the Money. I am sure you will get just as hooked as I was!
June 2, 2008
My absolute favorite of the series thus far! 12 is a wonderful balance of humor and tension, with a determinedly different plotline. I don't know how she does it, but Evanovich keeps this series fresh and entertaining with every addition.
I'll admit, I'm getting a bit tired of the Ranger-or-Joe debate. Mostly because I've never been a girl who loves the bad boys, so the attraction of bad-boy-Ranger does not entice - for me, it really isn't a question. Because I'm tiring of the "who will she pick?" thrill, the ending nearly drove me CRAZY! If, however, you find it to be a climatic sexual tension, your addiction will be pleasantly fed.
I'll admit, I'm getting a bit tired of the Ranger-or-Joe debate. Mostly because I've never been a girl who loves the bad boys, so the attraction of bad-boy-Ranger does not entice - for me, it really isn't a question. Because I'm tiring of the "who will she pick?" thrill, the ending nearly drove me CRAZY! If, however, you find it to be a climatic sexual tension, your addiction will be pleasantly fed.
May 13, 2018
What can I say? Steph, love ya, Babe. (See? Not so hard to say.) Did have a bit of a start with Mrs. Ranger. But, we knew something was off. Great book, as always. One of my favorite writers ever!
Re-read...again. Still lovin' it. May, 2016
Reread May 2018—In this book we find out more about Ranger. Makes even cooler! Steph is becoming a better bounty hunter and finally admits she loves Morelli...and Ranger.💕🤷🏼♀️
Re-read...again. Still lovin' it. May, 2016
Reread May 2018—In this book we find out more about Ranger. Makes even cooler! Steph is becoming a better bounty hunter and finally admits she loves Morelli...and Ranger.💕🤷🏼♀️
June 14, 2007
Again, I have only chosen one of the Janet Evanovich/Stephanie Plum mysteries to put here so as not to clog the shelf with all of her stuff. If you want to read some funny shit with fantastic characters and totally outrageous scenarios that only get crazier, check out Janet Evanovich. Her main character, Stephanie Plum, is an incompetent bounty hunter who is constantly being stalked, getting all kinds of nasty things in her hair, and having her car blown up. She is caught between two men: the ever-sexy Ranger, professional bounty hunter and total badass, and Joe Morelli, also unbelievably sexy, a cop, and more interested in a long-term relationship. The mysteries are hilarious. My favorite character has got to be Grandma Mazur. Check out the audiobooks narrated by C.J. Critt- she does a great job with the voices.
February 20, 2008
I highly recommend going back to the beginning of this series and starting there. I stumbled upon the stephanie plum novels halfway thru the series and wish I had found it sooner. Each addition to the series is a treat....sarcastic witty humor...a heroine that can bumble around and eat consolation donuts but still look herself in the eye in the mirror and kiss hunky mysterious guys when she and her boyfriend are on the outs. LOVE this series....
Long story short, girl works as bounty hunter to bring home the bacon for herself and her hamster....but barely pays the bills and gets shot at a lot. And her car generally only makes it thru one or two books before getting blown up. VERY FUNNY
Long story short, girl works as bounty hunter to bring home the bacon for herself and her hamster....but barely pays the bills and gets shot at a lot. And her car generally only makes it thru one or two books before getting blown up. VERY FUNNY
November 12, 2024
Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich is the 12th Stephanie Plum mystery. Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is being stalked by a woman claiming to be Rangers wife and when the woman is shot dead, it becomes apparent that a crazy Ranger wannabe is after Stephanie. Another fun and entertaining book in the series that never fails to make me laugh. This time Grandma Mazur joins Lulu and Sally in their band playing at senior centres. I always enjoy my time spent with Stephanie and her friends.
July 8, 2016
This did not disappoint. The tension between Stephanie, Joe, and Ranger is better than ever.
June 25, 2015
Hilarious, A Little Dark & Refreshing!!! Still Loving It!!!
January 16, 2019
4/97.
4.5 stars, actually!
Hilarious, fast-paced and highly entertaining, as are all the Plum books!! I love Evanovich’s style of writing, and am so happy I have so many still left to read! 😁
4.5 stars, actually!
Hilarious, fast-paced and highly entertaining, as are all the Plum books!! I love Evanovich’s style of writing, and am so happy I have so many still left to read! 😁
October 12, 2020
I love the Stephanie Plum series!
February 8, 2016
I'm thinking this one is by far my favorite in the series, and not just because of Ranger. Well, OK. Mostly because of Ranger.
In this installment, Stephanie, Lula, and Connie are up to their eyeballs in FTA's. Vinnie has overextended the business by handing out bonds willy-nilly and is now putting the pressure on everyone in the office to recoup some money. Things have gotten so bad that Connie is forced to put an ad in the paper for an extra agent. Trouble is, everyone and their mother are showing up to apply. In true Evanovich fashion, most show up wearing ass-less chaps...and not much else :D
Aside from working a heavy caseload, something strange is happening concerning Ranger. When a woman claiming to be Ranger's wife confronts Stephanie, gun in hand, things start getting a little crazy. When Ranger hits the television news, crazy turns to Serious Business. Now Stephanie is working her buns off trying to keep the business open, dragged into the middle of a Ranger-mess, and has picked up a stalker along the way. Nothing is ever easy for Stephanie Plum.
This twelfth installment once again delivered all of the hilarity I expect from Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum. Sally Sweet is back again and has started a new group, signing on Lula and Grandma Mazur in the process. As if that weren't enough, they mostly play for old folks in retirement homes. A 7-foot drag queen who's harrier than a Wookie, and has taken to performing in just a thong; a big woman who favors small-woman clothes; combined with Grandma Mazur, The What truly makes for a band of misfits. And not one of them can sing. Stephanie is once again wrestling her feelings for two men and while nothing really progresses on that front, it sure is fun. As I've said before, I'm rather indifferent when it comes to love triangles, but I honestly love the one between Stephanie, Morelli, and Ranger. I don't mind if it's never resolved because I'm sure that would take some fun out of these novels. Another highlight was Joyce Barnhardt, the woman everyone loves to hate. Hate her or not, her interactions with everyone in the office make for some good times. Especially when she's barking with Vinnie.
I'm having such fun with finally getting around to the series that everyone but me has read. These books are so much fun, seriously, and I can't get enough. While nothing ever happens concerning character growth and development and all of that other important stuff, it doesn't make a difference to me one way or the other. I don't want growth and development and change, I like them just the way they are -- dependable and consistent, just like the 'Burg.
In this installment, Stephanie, Lula, and Connie are up to their eyeballs in FTA's. Vinnie has overextended the business by handing out bonds willy-nilly and is now putting the pressure on everyone in the office to recoup some money. Things have gotten so bad that Connie is forced to put an ad in the paper for an extra agent. Trouble is, everyone and their mother are showing up to apply. In true Evanovich fashion, most show up wearing ass-less chaps...and not much else :D
Aside from working a heavy caseload, something strange is happening concerning Ranger. When a woman claiming to be Ranger's wife confronts Stephanie, gun in hand, things start getting a little crazy. When Ranger hits the television news, crazy turns to Serious Business. Now Stephanie is working her buns off trying to keep the business open, dragged into the middle of a Ranger-mess, and has picked up a stalker along the way. Nothing is ever easy for Stephanie Plum.
This twelfth installment once again delivered all of the hilarity I expect from Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum. Sally Sweet is back again and has started a new group, signing on Lula and Grandma Mazur in the process. As if that weren't enough, they mostly play for old folks in retirement homes. A 7-foot drag queen who's harrier than a Wookie, and has taken to performing in just a thong; a big woman who favors small-woman clothes; combined with Grandma Mazur, The What truly makes for a band of misfits. And not one of them can sing. Stephanie is once again wrestling her feelings for two men and while nothing really progresses on that front, it sure is fun. As I've said before, I'm rather indifferent when it comes to love triangles, but I honestly love the one between Stephanie, Morelli, and Ranger. I don't mind if it's never resolved because I'm sure that would take some fun out of these novels. Another highlight was Joyce Barnhardt, the woman everyone loves to hate. Hate her or not, her interactions with everyone in the office make for some good times. Especially when she's barking with Vinnie.
I'm having such fun with finally getting around to the series that everyone but me has read. These books are so much fun, seriously, and I can't get enough. While nothing ever happens concerning character growth and development and all of that other important stuff, it doesn't make a difference to me one way or the other. I don't want growth and development and change, I like them just the way they are -- dependable and consistent, just like the 'Burg.
August 8, 2012
First, I’ll admit a personal weakness: I actually laughed several times when reading one of the Stephanie Plum books last year. But that was last year, and a couple Stephanie Plum books ago. Words cannot describe the formulaic lack of imagination in this particular twelfth book: sitcom-quality one-liners, grotesque, stereotypical, clownish characters, and one particularly annoying Stephanie Plum, whom the reader wishes to die, so as to end this ridiculous series.
I got it! I too can write could write a Stephanie Plum book! Let’s see… Ah! (Annoying) Stephanie Plum dies in (insert whatever comical accident she routinely gets involved in, like apartment or car blow-up), and everyone has a party at the local funeral home, with cookies and refreshments, and, oops!, grandma Mazur “accidentally” opens the casket and mayhem ensues, haha!
Another fun scenario: since (annoying) Stephanie Plum can’t choose between the two men in her life, Joe Morelli, the nice policeman, and Ranger, the dangerous bounty hunter (yawn!), they somehow all move in together (due to usual apartment explosion), and trouble ensues…or not! Ranger and Morelli find out they like each other, and dump (annoying) Stephanie Plum.
Or else, my favorite: (annoying) Stephanie Plum gains 200 pounds from eating so many donuts and cheeseburgers; as a result, she can’t be a body hunter anymore, and ends up a couch potato with a bad perm, eating Twinkies while watching World Wide Wrestling matches on TV.
I got it! I too can write could write a Stephanie Plum book! Let’s see… Ah! (Annoying) Stephanie Plum dies in (insert whatever comical accident she routinely gets involved in, like apartment or car blow-up), and everyone has a party at the local funeral home, with cookies and refreshments, and, oops!, grandma Mazur “accidentally” opens the casket and mayhem ensues, haha!
Another fun scenario: since (annoying) Stephanie Plum can’t choose between the two men in her life, Joe Morelli, the nice policeman, and Ranger, the dangerous bounty hunter (yawn!), they somehow all move in together (due to usual apartment explosion), and trouble ensues…or not! Ranger and Morelli find out they like each other, and dump (annoying) Stephanie Plum.
Or else, my favorite: (annoying) Stephanie Plum gains 200 pounds from eating so many donuts and cheeseburgers; as a result, she can’t be a body hunter anymore, and ends up a couch potato with a bad perm, eating Twinkies while watching World Wide Wrestling matches on TV.
January 18, 2020
There was a scene in this book where Grandma Mazur joins up with Lula in a band. They of course have a practice session at the Plum family home. Absolutely hilarious! Made me laugh out loud more than once!
These books are ridiculous and that's why I read them....
These books are ridiculous and that's why I read them....
June 17, 2020
4.5 rounded up to 5
Fun with Ranger
Fun with Ranger
February 27, 2022
One of the more serious books in the series but also one of the most repetitive. I'm also getting a little tired of the I love two men and can't choose bullshit, Pick one or none but don't play both.
January 18, 2020
My second trip through the wonderful world of Stephanie Plum is a real great experience. I'm listening to the really great audio versions. There is a bonus interview with Janet Evanovich at the end of the audio that is just fantastic. Hearing Janet explain her process is priceless. "Twelve Sharp" is a darker Plum which reveals a lot about Ranger's backstory. Darker, but no less funny and listening while shopping can be a problem if you are likely to burst out laughing. Stephanie's car, a Morris Mini, survives, but there is a blown up car and Stephanie caused it. There are other trademark Plum-isms that will make you smile and this cast of bail jumpers is just as hard to catch and inventive as always.
When Stephanie picks up a stalker who claims to be Ranger's wife, she is not amused. Stephanie didn't believe That Carman Manoso was really married to Ranger, but what did she really know about him? When Carman turns up dead and Ranger is accused, he turns to Stephanie to help. Ranger has more problems than a dead wife, he has a kidnapped daughter and some psycho, a very smart psycho, running around impersonating him, wanting Ranger's life . . . and Stephanie.
When Stephanie picks up a stalker who claims to be Ranger's wife, she is not amused. Stephanie didn't believe That Carman Manoso was really married to Ranger, but what did she really know about him? When Carman turns up dead and Ranger is accused, he turns to Stephanie to help. Ranger has more problems than a dead wife, he has a kidnapped daughter and some psycho, a very smart psycho, running around impersonating him, wanting Ranger's life . . . and Stephanie.
November 4, 2016
I refuse to apologize for loving these books :-) Still fun, popcorn entertainment
August 28, 2007
First, I would like to say that a. I did not purchase this book b. I am suffering from jet lag induced insomnia and c. as a result of this insomnia I wasn't up to anything super intellectual at 4 AM so I thought I'd try the book my mom got for free at her company picnic in July.
Obviously I wasn't thinking properly, period.
I saw how bad this book was by page two (gratuitous descriptions of characters? CHECK over exposition CHECK fantastical plot/characters? CHECK) but kept going. I figured, it's book twelve of a series, there must be something redeeming or else she couldn't have gotten so far, plus it's set in Jersey (Trenton area) and that's always great. :)
There were some interesting characters, such as Lula the former "'ho" (her spelling, not min) and the other employees of the bond agency were main character, Stephanie Plum, works, but the tantalizing men in her life? I'd take Morelli's (who she disconcertingly refers to as Joe TWICE, but that might be because she is on book 12 of this bizarre crime-laden love triangle) dog, Bob, over him. Bad boy Ranger isn't particularly exciting either (not just saying this because she gyps on sex scenes and has painfully not-sexy banter). Thanks to Evanovich's extraordinarily detailed fantasy life, however, I can picture exactly what he looks like.
Now that I see what all the fuss is about, I can assure you that I won't be reading any more of her novels. The mystery of who Stephanie finally settles down with will just remain unsolved for me.
Obviously I wasn't thinking properly, period.
I saw how bad this book was by page two (gratuitous descriptions of characters? CHECK over exposition CHECK fantastical plot/characters? CHECK) but kept going. I figured, it's book twelve of a series, there must be something redeeming or else she couldn't have gotten so far, plus it's set in Jersey (Trenton area) and that's always great. :)
There were some interesting characters, such as Lula the former "'ho" (her spelling, not min) and the other employees of the bond agency were main character, Stephanie Plum, works, but the tantalizing men in her life? I'd take Morelli's (who she disconcertingly refers to as Joe TWICE, but that might be because she is on book 12 of this bizarre crime-laden love triangle) dog, Bob, over him. Bad boy Ranger isn't particularly exciting either (not just saying this because she gyps on sex scenes and has painfully not-sexy banter). Thanks to Evanovich's extraordinarily detailed fantasy life, however, I can picture exactly what he looks like.
Now that I see what all the fuss is about, I can assure you that I won't be reading any more of her novels. The mystery of who Stephanie finally settles down with will just remain unsolved for me.
June 28, 2009
Just like reading the complete works of Dickens, I am working my way through the epistles of Mistress Evanovich whose tomes cover a panoply of colorful characters in ye merry old New Jersey. And why not? I bought the complete works of Nathaniel Hawthorne at a flea market once and decided, since I then owned it, should read it. I didn’t make it though one volume (I think there were ten)—much better than Advil PM, it was great at sleep inducing. Dame Janet is a little more lively although, perhaps less literaturelyesque. At least she keeps me awake. Either way, once you begin her series, like a tube of Pringles, you must work your way to the bottom, or end as it may be. Once, I read everything I could find written by Thomas Hardy (I was a strange kid). This would not be the same. Stephanie Plum is to literature as ketchup is to steak—the brain says don’t do it, but the taste buds say go ahead.
If you have read the others, but not this one, beware: this is the book where two Rangers appear. No kidding. There are two of them—and there’s a run on black military gear at the local SWAT stores. Lula joins a rock band with recurring character heterosexual transvestite school bus driver (au contraire, I kid you not) and Grandma Mazur joins in a couple sets. Then there was the time I read everything of Stephen Isherwood (talk about a snooze). As long as Morelli keeps the Plum orgasms coming (ooh, I’m sorry) and Bob the Dog keep regurgitating like the author, I guess I can keep going on this series.
Shut up. They’re fun.
If you have read the others, but not this one, beware: this is the book where two Rangers appear. No kidding. There are two of them—and there’s a run on black military gear at the local SWAT stores. Lula joins a rock band with recurring character heterosexual transvestite school bus driver (au contraire, I kid you not) and Grandma Mazur joins in a couple sets. Then there was the time I read everything of Stephen Isherwood (talk about a snooze). As long as Morelli keeps the Plum orgasms coming (ooh, I’m sorry) and Bob the Dog keep regurgitating like the author, I guess I can keep going on this series.
Shut up. They’re fun.
June 16, 2020
*This review can also be found on my blog, The Never-Ending TBR Pile.
Ranger.
I could probably stop with just that one name. This book reveals more about the man of mystery in Stephanie's life and it's all confusing, thrilling, and emotionally draining. Typical Ranger.
I'm not sure if anyone has ever read Mr. Murder by Dean Koontz, but this book feels like it's a nod to that intense and mind-bending novel. Just on a more comic level. Identity theft, impersonation, kidnapping, and the occasional gunfire and bombs make up this novel, but then it's Stephanie Plum. How can you not have some bombs and gunfire?!
Grandma Mazur is her outrageously hilarious self, as always. The FTA's are continuing to be interesting and at times, sadly hilarious. And Lula is turning out to be one of the best sidekicks I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
In all, a fast-paced, wildly hilarious romp that seems to be the norm for Stephanie Plum. And I wouldn't have it any other way!
Ranger.
I could probably stop with just that one name. This book reveals more about the man of mystery in Stephanie's life and it's all confusing, thrilling, and emotionally draining. Typical Ranger.
I'm not sure if anyone has ever read Mr. Murder by Dean Koontz, but this book feels like it's a nod to that intense and mind-bending novel. Just on a more comic level. Identity theft, impersonation, kidnapping, and the occasional gunfire and bombs make up this novel, but then it's Stephanie Plum. How can you not have some bombs and gunfire?!
Grandma Mazur is her outrageously hilarious self, as always. The FTA's are continuing to be interesting and at times, sadly hilarious. And Lula is turning out to be one of the best sidekicks I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
In all, a fast-paced, wildly hilarious romp that seems to be the norm for Stephanie Plum. And I wouldn't have it any other way!
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