Random Acts of Malice 

Holly Anna Paladin Mysteries #3)

Paperback, ebook 

November 21, 2015

by Christy Barritt 

• Paperback: 282 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform 
• ISBN-13: 978-1519453143

Secrets from the past str up danger in the present. 

When Holly Anna Paladin’s boyfriend, police detective Chase Dexter, says he’s leaving for two weeks and can’t give any details, she wants to trust him. But when she discovers Chase may be involved in some unwise and dangerous pursuits, she’s compelled to intervene. Holly gets a run for her money as she’s swept into the world of horseracing. The stakes turn deadly when a dead body surfaces and suspicion is cast on Chase. At every turn, more trouble emerges, making Holly question what she holds true about her relationship and her future. Just when she thinks she’s on the homestretch, a dark horse arises. Holly might lose everything in a nail-biting fight to the finish.

My thoughts:  RANDOM ACTS OF MALICE is the third book in this series and while it does stand alone there are some references to the previous books, Random Acts of Murder and Random Acts of Deceit. I also have read the next book following this - Random Acts of Scrooge. 

I enjoyed RANDOM ACTS OF MALICE and while I guessed one of the people behind the crimes, the other came as a complete surprise.  The action is nonstop, the mystery keeps you guessing and Holly Anna is a heroine like non other. Funny, quirky, with a great side-kick best friend, Jamie. 

The only thing that bothered me was the lack of trust between Holly Anna and Chase. She doesn't trust his rather evasive answers about why they need some time apart and instead starts stalking him, quick to believe the worse when she sees some things. They did address their lack of trust issues at the back of the book, so this is good. Otherwise, this couple would be doomed.  

I love Christy Barritt's cozy mysteries, and highly recommend RANDOM ACTS OF MALICE or any of the other books in the Holly Anna Paladin Mystery series. 4.5 stars.