Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

McAllister Justice #4

Carbon Replacements

Rate this book
The killer held a knife to her throat—the ultimate decision locked within a dark and deviant gaze.

Determined and dedicated, forensic pathologist Remie Tallin validates her talent by discerning a victim’s last moments of life. Returning to Portland signified her new beginning where a psychopathic stalker designates her a pawn in a seductive game of intrigue.

The lines between predator and prey blur in hunting a medical genius bent on resetting the laws of nature. Evidence has never failed to point Remie in the right direction, yet conflicting discoveries mock the legal system and defy the scientific arena for clarification.

Detective McAllister’s return from leave includes a new assignment along with a partner well versed in subtle sarcasm and innuendos. Discovering the new medical examiner unconscious at the scene of a grisly murder forces him to unite with his brothers against a world of chaos where reality shifts according to a psychopath’s desire.

271 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2018

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

Reily Garrett

55 books779 followers

Reily Garrett is a writer, mother, and companion to three long coat German shepherds. When not working with her dogs, she’s sitting at her desk with her furkids by her side.
Author of chilling suspense and snarky romance, her stories include romantic thrillers and paranormal romance, . Regardless of genre, each book delves into a dark and twisted imagination yet is tempered with romance and a touch of humor.
Reviews by Kirkus Reviews, San Francisco Bay Review, and BestThrillers.com best describe her work:
"This could be James Patterson, Lee Child, and Tess Gerritsen rolled into one, but the dark, twisted methods used by the serial killer could surprise even those readers…” - San Francisco Bay Review
“…steamy, seductive police procedural…” - BestThrillers.com
“…well-researched thriller that remains romantically genuine throughout.” - Kirkus Review

Prior experience in the Military Police, private investigations, and as an ICU nurse gives her fiction a real-world flavor.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
45 (53%)
4 stars
33 (39%)
3 stars
5 (5%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Christine.
609 reviews1,276 followers
September 5, 2018
4.5 stars rounded to 4 stars

The McAllister Justice series is another of my secret little gems that I so enjoy. The McAllisters are five brothers (3 detectives, 2 PIs) and one sister (attorney). Each book focuses on one sibling while the entire family works together to solve cutting edge crimes. With each installment at least one family member finds true love. The genre is romantic thriller, which I don’t read too often, but I love this series as the plots are substantial, the family dynamics are highly entertaining, and the romantic angle is done just right.

This story focuses on Billy, a police detective. The plot involves the stalking of a young woman forensic pathologist (Remie) in the setting of high-powered scientific research focusing on bioprinting and the construction of human parts. Chilling stuff, as the science is true and brings into play very touchy ethical issues that we as human beings are going to be faced with in the not too distant future. Before your eyes glaze over, know that you do not have to be a sciencey-type to enjoy this. Ms. Garrett makes sure her readers understand this aspect of the story.

There’s much to like here. The plot is original, well written, and engaging. The prose is lovely, especially for this genre. I was a little confused early on when the author throws a lot at us, but this all comes together as the story progresses. It is definitely a refreshing change from all the serial killer books that are out there these days. The pacing and building of suspense was spot on. There are several scenes of high suspense that had me shredding my nails (Reily, you owe me a manicure). I did not guess the end.

The characters are so easy to root for and we get to know Billy and Remie well. The McAllister family and their significant others get together often, not only because they are personally close, but because they all get involved in whatever crime is being fought. They always have each other’s backs. Their camaraderie is fabulous with dialogue ranging from biting to humorous to poignant. There is some spicy language, so beware if you don’t care for that.

I liked how the author handles the romantic arc. The progression is perfect, the sex is tender, and this part of the story is an adjunct to rather than the focus of the story. Just the way I like it.

I’ve read all of the books so far (novella plus 4 novels) and can see the growth in Ms. Garrett’s writing. Her extensive work background, which includes gigs as an ICU nurse and a private investigator amongst other interesting professions allows her to write what she knows, always a plus.

Finally, the author always includes dogs, and this time a dog and a cat, in her stories and makes it clear they are part of the family too.

I highly recommend The McAllister Justice series to all fans of romantic suspense and cutting edge plots. It will also please readers who like books that focus on strong family relationships.

Many thanks to Ms. Garrett for affording me an advanced copy and allowing me the privilege of beta-reading Carbon Replacements. Also, thank you, Reily, for the honor of including our cat Holly in your story.

Opinions stated are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Profile Image for Jean.
788 reviews20 followers
September 3, 2018
I don’t often start a series on the fourth book, but when the opportunity to read Reily Garrett’s Carbon Replacements as an ARC presented itself, I grabbed it. That move proved overwhelming at first. With rapid-fire action and a profusion of descriptive scenes, I felt inundated by names and confusing details. Not knowing who was who from previous books was part of it. Slowly, but surely, those particulars started to fall into place enough that I could make sense of things and enjoy this book.

From what I now know, each book features a different McAllister family member. This time around, it’s Detective Billy McAllister, who starts out “un-hitched”. Since this is a romantic suspense novel, we can surmise how this may change. Billy has recently returned to work from a medical leave to find that he has a new partner, Royden Patterson. The two don’t exactly hit it off at first, for reasons I won’t go into. It makes for some amusing – and realistic – reading. The McAllisters are a tightly knit family, something that is quite evident to anyone getting a look from the outside.

One of those outsiders is Dr. Remington “Remie” Tallin, a pathologist who has recently moved back to Portland. Billy becomes her bodyguard, basically, after a violent attack in which a college student is killed; another college student has gone missing. Remie was injured and dumped. For some reason, the killer left her alive. But there is something amiss.

What follows is a pretty darn good yarn. If you like suspense, I can tell you that there are moments where I was holding my breath. If you like humor, you will laugh out loud at the brothers and even more at their sister Abby and the brothers’ significant others when they get jawing during their family meetings. If you like things a little more sultry, Reily Garrett writes those scenes well too. Sci fi? Well, it turns out that what Billy and Remie are in up to their muddy necks against might seem like science fiction, but it’s actually real research and development that’s happening now. Exciting and scary! All of that adds up to a very good story.

The characters are likable. I like the loyalty of the family members. Coming from a large family myself, their interactions feel genuine – sarcasm, concern, annoyance – the author gets it right. She adds in the sweetness of new love in Billy’s budding romance and the awkwardness between the Katt and Matt as they verbally spar with each other. I love that!

Even if you think that this isn’t your genre, give it a chance. There might be something for everyone in Carbon Replacements.

4.5 stars

P.S. A special thanks to the author for her portrayal of Holly, a very special kitty cat.
Profile Image for Siobhan.
4,666 reviews584 followers
September 17, 2018
Carbon Replacements is the fourth book in Reily Garrett’s McAllister Justice series, and it’s another brilliant addition to the series. Those who have read Digital Velocity, Bound By Shadows, and Inconclusive Evidence will adore this instalment in the series, yet new readers can easily dive in as each book is a standalone novel. I would recommend reading in order, though – it’s such a great series, and so fun to watch as things develop, plus you really come to love the characters throughout. Moreover, the deeper into the series you get the more backstory there is to enjoy – you can enjoy without it but being able to recognise those nods to the prior books certainly adds more to this one.

As with the prior books in the series, however, I wish to make a quick note before I go into any detail regarding this book. I’m fortunate enough to beta read for Reily Garrett, lucky enough to get an insight in how these books develop. However, this does not influence my rating in any way. The beta reading process is a lot of fun, but I keep my ratings of the final book completely separate from the beta reading process.

With that in mind, onto the good stuff.

By this point I have read almost all of Reily Garrett’s work. I have a couple of books left to read, and I’ll certainly be picking them up. My fan status was guaranteed with the first book I read, and since then my level of fandom has increased with each addition book I read. Every book Reily Garrett releases is an amazing experience, each book having plenty to offer.

As with all Reily Garrett reads there are certain things you can go into Carbon Replacements expecting – beautiful prose, wonderful characters, and a storyline that will have you hooked. Those are just the basics of what you can expect, the foundations of any Reily Garrett book, with Carbon Replacement adding plenty more layers on top of these original goodies.

Like any good romantic suspense read, this one starts with a kick and the high continues throughout the story. The action and suspense will have you hooked. The mystery and intrigue will leave you second guessing plenty of elements. The romance and sexual tension will leave you adoring the characters. All these things come together in a fabulous way, ensuring you’re turning the pages at a rapid pace.

With Inconclusive Evidence, book three, I mentioned how Reily Garrett gave us something a bit different when it comes to the suspense element. Such is also true of Carbon Replacements. With the McAllister Justice series, the suspense element is taking us on a wild ride, one that leaves you thinking long and hard about science and the world around us. I will not go into much detail, but know this story offers something different to the standard serial killer you find inside most romantic suspense reads, and it makes for a truly addictive read.

I could sit and write thousands of words about how much I love this series, but I will leave you to go and make your own decision. Honestly, all the books in this series are strong four-point-five-star ratings (or in the case of Bound By Shadows, a solid five-star rating), and you cannot appreciate the beauty of the series until you dive in.

As ever, Reily Garrett has given us a wonderful read and I cannot wait to see what we’re given next.
Profile Image for Rosie Amber.
Author 1 book132 followers
October 25, 2018
Carbon Replacements is book #4 of the McAllister justice action adventure series. All the books are set in and around Portland, Oregon.

Remie is a medical examiner and has recently moved back to her home state. The book opens with a brutal attack on her and two students. When police officer Billy McAllister and his partner are called to the remote crime scene, it’s Billy who rescues Remie and agrees to guard her in hospital.

After Remie regains consciousness, she’s horrified when she recognises specific lumbar puncture wounds on her body. They indicate that very unusual blood and tissue samples were taken from her, probably by the attacker. This shocking piece of evidence has Billy and his brothers worried; only a few months ago they’d been caught up in unlawful human genetic experiments. Could Billy’s nightmare experience be coming back? To this end, the McAllister family, once more, put all their resources together to discover the truth. For full review see here https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-bMj
Profile Image for Donadee's Corner.
2,020 reviews51 followers
August 28, 2018
Carbon Replacements - McAllister Justice Series Bk 4 - Written by Reily Garrett
The killer held a knife to her throat—the ultimate decision locked within a dark and deviant gaze.

Determined and dedicated, forensic pathologist Remie Tallin validates her talent by detailing a victim’s last moments of life. Returning to Portland signified her new beginning where a psychopathic stalker designates her a pawn in a seductive game of intrigue. The lines between predator and prey blur in hunting a medical genius bent on resetting the laws of nature. Evidence has never failed to point Remie in the right direction, yet conflicting discoveries mock the legal system and defy the scientific arena for clarification. Detective McAllister’s return from leave includes a new assignment along with a partner well versed in subtle sarcasm and innuendos. Discovering the new medical examiner unconscious at the scene of a grisly murder forces him to unite with his brothers against a world of chaos where reality shifts according to a psychopath’s desire.

What did I like? Oh, come on, who doesn’t love those McAllister Brothers and their girls???? They are my favorite brothers and finally, Billy has found someone that he can give all his love to! The messes that these boys seem to find sometimes defile luck. It seems like they just got out one mess and wow, here we are again. I am just kidding, I love these boys and the more trouble they get into the more reading I get to do… and drool! LOL

What will you like? Besides the hot brothers, suspense, humor, love, astounding action, breathtaking storyline, remarkable characters and astounding reading! That’s just for starters. These boys will have you on the edge of your seats and guessing what will happen next. The girls are more active in this book and they really kick butt with lots of action and humor. I for one can’t wait for the next book. Looks like Matt needs someone to love him too! I received this from the author as a member of the ARC team for an honest review with no other compensation.
September 13, 2018
This my first Reily Garrett novel to read (I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review) and I have to say, that I'm impressed! Even jumping in on book 4, I never felt lost or that I was missing important plot points or character development. That being said-- what a great book! I was hooked from the first paragraph and devoured this story very quickly. Next stop: Book #1 of the McAllister Justice Series! Thank you, Reily, for an entertaining, well-written adventure.

Reviewed by: Mary M.
Profile Image for Alicia Huxtable.
1,758 reviews57 followers
August 26, 2018
I love the McAllister Brothers and I love the way this author portrays them. Loyal as anything, stubborn as pigs in mud and well......they are the McAllisters. Reily Garrett writes a fantastic series with this family at the forefront
Profile Image for Ingrid Thomas.
282 reviews8 followers
January 3, 2019
What can I say, as always Reily Garret manages to ensnare us with her descriptions an the arch of the book.

The McAllister Series is wonderful, you definitely end up loving each and every one of the brothers. In this book we get to know the sour disposition fo Billy, a police detective on leave because of an injury, coming home only to find out it is been utilized by someone else... enter our heroine of the book, forensic pathologist Remie.

Remie finds herself with some information that puts her life in danger, and it ends ups being one more case for the McAllister brothers to solve and to protect.

Reily manages to pull us through a lot of medical jargon but with a very gentile hand so that us non knowledgeable people can understand and even imagine what is going on.

A very good story line, and we get an inkling on whom the next book is going o be ( I hope).

This book is part of a series, and i definitely recommend reading them in orden, so you can really understand the dynamics in the family.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews161 followers
September 3, 2018
The brilliant Reily Garrett has put out another exciting story with the hot as hell McAllister brothers, with Billy in the starring role. It all starts out with Dr. Remie Tallin getting a call from a younger girl who needs her help, who then gets murdered in front of her, which she barely comes away from alive that starts her on a dangerous journey. Billy is the detective on the case, which is his first case since coming back from leave after a particularly difficult case. And yeah, that's all that I'm giving up about the plot, which is fast paced, exciting, heart pounding, and sexy. See, there's so many twists that I don't want to give anything away, plus I had to drop so many f-bombs while reading, and that's frowned upon in reviews, so I just can't give more description between the spoilers & colorful metaphors. Remie & Billy were so awesome together, and they had sparks in between the whole trying to figure out who was trying to kill her thing, so when they finally got down to sexy times, they lit things on fire. And of course, the rest of the McAllister clan & their significant others were present and accounted for, adding in more fun, depth, and excitement to the story, not to mention Billy's new partner. The whole suspense factor kept me on the edge of my seat with my heart racing, as truly, I just couldn't figure out who was behind it all. I LOVE this series so much, and never want it to end, so seriously, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
8,369 reviews113 followers
September 25, 2021
Another page turning thriller that had me glued to the pages right from the start. The author once again brings strong characters , mixes in the paranormal and humor,throws in the suspense and delivers a dark,twisted and erotic thriller. She moves the story fluidly with her vividly painted scenes and brings a surprise ending! Loved and recommend.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Keyrsten.
125 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2018
Remie is ready to start her new beginning now that she has returned to Portland. She is very dedicated to her job as a forensic pathologist and works so hard at putting together a victim's last moments in as much detail as possible. Things go awry when Remie witnesses a murder and is left in a fragile state. She was such a strong and brave woman, even during one of the most vulnerable points in her life. Instead of completely breaking down, Remie pulls herself together and teams up with her bodyguard Billy to track down the monster hunting women in their city. Their partnership begins to shift into something more, but can two people find love while on the hunt for a murderer?

Billy comes to find himself with a new partner once he returns to the force. Their first case together involves looking into the murders of Remie's friends, and in turn leads to Billy being assigned as Remie's bodyguard. At first it seems that Billy is being stuck on babysitting duty, but he soon discovers how strong and intelligent his new charge is. She refuses to back down from her own personal monster, and that fierce strength draws him into her. The more they work together, the more they are pulled to one another. Is what they are feeling love, or is it a side affect of circumstance?

The ebb and flow of Remie and Billy's relationship was interesting to watch. I was unsure how I would feel about the transition from a police/victim dynamic to a lovers/partners dynamic, but Reily was able to maneuver that transition beautifully. They refused to act on those feelings with one another, deeming it too inappropriate and just a side affect of them working closely together. Each moment together the chemistry burned a little brighter, until finally it was too much and they were consumed by the flames.They not only made great lovers but also great partners. Now if you are into books just for the steamy smutty scenes, you should know there aren't many in this book. That being said, I think it would have been more of a distraction to the story if it were. I probably would have been sitting here thinking, "Y'all realize there is a serial killer afoot. Literally you don't know where he is. He could murder you mid coitus." The smutty goodness that is present feels more than just sex and it is so damn electric. Like you could use that sexual electricity to power your home.

I was literally chewing my nails as I waded through the suspense of the book. There were so many twist and turns, ups and downs, that I had a hard time discerning which direction I thought the story was going to go. I pride myself on being the person who can figure out who the bad guy is prior to it being revealed in the book or movie. You should see me watching Criminal Minds or Law & Order ... you'll either be amazed by my skills or annoyed I ruined the plot for you. It is not that often that a story stumps me and I'm unable to guess anything before it was revealed. The end result basically bitch slapped me with the truth, and damn did it feel good. Don't even get me started on The Sandman. Holy toledo. He is a deliciously despicable villain. Just the way I like them.

It was nice seeing the McAllister brothers and their ladies. I can't help but go all googly eyed every time one of them is on the page. I'm all for getting in the middle of that brother sandwich ... just saying ... maybe that was too much ... but they are worth it. The witty sarcasm and general love within the family provided a nice light touch to the very heavy burdened plot.

Billy and Remie were brought together by unfortunate circumstances. Though they were brought together through darkness, the love that blossomed from it was beautiful and tender.
Profile Image for Read with Me (Jolie).
1,234 reviews39 followers
September 9, 2018
Romantic thrillers are a favorite of mine to read. So when Reily approached me to read Carbon Replacements, I jumped on it. Not only because it is a romantic thriller but also because it is the next book in the McAllister Justice series.

Carbon Replacements takes place sometime after the ending of Inconclusive Evidence. Remi Tallin is a forensic pathologist that had moved back to Seattle after the death of her mother. When her next door neighbor comes to her after being attacked by a John, Remi is drawn into a game where her every move is watched and reported. Billy McAllister is back from leave. He comes into Remi’s world when he is the one to find her after she was attacked by the same John who murdered her neighbor. But not everything is what it seems. Billy and Remi are drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a psychopath called The Sandman. The secret that he is hiding could change the world. Can Billy and Remi outthink him or will they become his victims?

I loved the storyline. From the beginning, when Remi was sitting in the car with Gena, I was drawn in. The author did a fantastic job of keeping me interested in the story. The side storylines of Royden/Abby and Katt/Matt were a welcome distraction when Billy/Remi’s storyline got too much. The author did a wonderful of tying them all to the main storyline at the end of the book.

The thriller angle of the book was very well written. This book did a great job of taking sudden twists and turns. Just when I thought I had the bad guy figured out, the author threw a wrench in it. I also liked the idea that was behind everything. I have never heard of bioprinting organs before and I was unaware of the controversy surrounding it. The role that it played in this book was frightening. I had no issue imagining someone wanting to do what The Sandman wanted to do with a bioprinter.

I loved how the relationship between Remi and Billy evolved. It went from a typical police/victim relationship to one where they had feelings for each other but refused to act. So no Instalove. The chemistry between them was amazing. With every glance they shared, the chemistry became more charged. There was a point in the book where I was like “Just DO IT, already“.

Speaking of sex, there wasn’t a lot in this book. Which was refreshing because I could focus on the storyline without wondering when they were going to have sex. The sex that Billy and Remi had was amazing because of the chemistry.

The end of the book was amazing. Who The Sandman was a surprise. A surprise because of why The Sandman did what he did. Talk about frightening and twisted. I also liked how the author lined up the next romance. I wasn’t surprised at who it was because you could see it going there the entire book.

What I liked about Carbon Replacements:

A) the storyline

B) the side storylines

C) The relationship between Remi and Billy

What I disliked about Carbon Replacements:

A) The Sandman

B) What happened to Abby (not mentioned in the review so read the book!!)

C) Remi’s stalker (again, not mentioned in the review. See above)

I gave Carbon Replacements a 4-star rating. This book is a thrilling read. I didn’t know when or where the plot would twist and go in a totally different direction. The Sandman was a truly despicable villain.

I would give Carbon Replacements an Adult rating. There is sex. There is violence. There is language. I would recommend that no one under the age of 21 read this book.

I would reread Carbon Replacements. I would also recommend this book to family and friends.

I would like to thank Reily Garrett for allowing me to read and review Carbon Replacements.

All opinions stated in this review of Carbon Replacements are mine.

**I chose to leave this review after reading an advance reader copy**
74 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2018
The author doesn't disappoint with the opening scenes filled with fear and violence and a psychotic sociopath murderer. I could feel the fear and desperate attempt to escape the sick twisted psychotic man. I could feel when they ran into the woods,the rain on their faces, their legs being cut with thorns and branches and the cold murky water. I shivered and my heart pounded. The author brilliantly makes clear that the psychotic killer has another agenda, a plan which he has been formulating for a long time which includes Remie, a main character and a forensic medical examiner and is the psychopaths target.
And then I breathed a sigh of relief because the McAllister brothers, their whole clan are back on the scene to solve this mystery. I absolutely love these characters and feel so safe when they're around. Their investigative skills, legal and analytical expertise,family bonds and sibling loyalty are a force to be reckoned with.
The inhumane and illegal medical procedures and research are all part of the crimes being investigated and they are all sickening, evil, and nauseating to imagine. This book is not for the faint of heart or those with a queasy stomach.
And of course, the author is amazing in creating sexual tension and desire between Billy McAllister and Remie. I could feel it building and was filled with anticipation for its sensual explosion. Reily Garrett is clearly one of the best writers of creating sexual tension, erotica, and finally the passionate surrender. Left me breathless…..
Profile Image for Books Laid Bare.
2,275 reviews37 followers
September 15, 2018
If you are looking for your next read then please look no further, because the McAllister Brother series by Reily Garrett is a proper gem. This might be the fourth book in the series, but you can easily jump right in and enjoy!
I will say though that if you haven’t already worked your way through the previous books, you would do well to pick them up – because once you have read Billy’s story you will know why…these guys are as sexy as sin!
Remie Tallin is just doing her job, after all as a doctor that is what she is trained to do but when her young patient is murdered and she only just manages to escape with her own life…that life is irrevocably changed and when Billy is assigned as the detective to lead the case, well let’s just say things become intensely personal.
There were so many twists that I thought I might end up with whiplash, the story was pacey but perfectly poised and full to the brim with angst and attitude.
Remie & Billy were superb together, they worked hard to not only solve the case but also to navigate how they felt about each other and oh boy when they eventually got their heads around how they felt about it all they set the page alight.
I love the way the author made sure that the rest of the McAllister brothers were ever present throughout the story, it was wonderful catching up with them all and of course they each added their own special sass to proceedings.
Take your time with this one, I tried hard to work out who was behind it all but in true Reily Garrett style, I was baffled right up until the very last second. An edge of your seat read that was practically impossible to put down and will be very difficult to forget.
Profile Image for Beyond The Covers Blog.
2,501 reviews87 followers
September 10, 2018
Carbon Replacements will suck you in from the first page and doesn't let go until the very end. You will definitely be on the edge of your seat.

Dr. Remie Tallin is a dedicated pathologist. When meeting up with her friends, she ends up witnessing their murder. Now she is being stalked. What is the killer's motive by not murdering her along with her friends?

Billy McAllister has just returned to the force. He has a new partner, Royden, who is a little sarcastic and dishes out innuendos about Billy's sister. Their first case is the murders of Remie's friends. Billy is also assigned as Remie's bodyguard.

As the story unfolds there is a physco scientst involved in the bioprinting and the building of human parts. The author explains with great detail about the process so the readers will understand. Her experience and knowledge in the medical field and as a private investigator proves that.

The McAllisters are a close knit family. They, along with their mates, also help one another solve the swords edge of crimes. The humour between the brothers and their sister along with their mates at the family meetings is hilarious. The author always includes an adorable furry companion.

Reily Garrett knows how to build a suspenseful plot that will keep you intrigued throughout the entire story.  Unexpected twists and turns that will have you second guessing yourself as to who the killer is as he manipulates everything and everyone.

I love the McAllister Justice Series. Each book is about one of the brothers and how the relationship developed with their mate. Each book is a standalone.

If you enjoy reading action packed, nail biting thrillers with a sprinkle of love, then this series is for you. 
Profile Image for Ani.
257 reviews4 followers
September 13, 2018
Carbon Replacements dives straight into the story. No gentle nudging towards the grit, we jump right into the story, which I loved. Easy builds came later, creating layers and establishing characters. This is a series so reading the other books would give this a new dimension. I have read this as a stand-alone and have really enjoyed it. Only downside for me is the flow of the story seems to stutter. Places where I thought To myself “did I miss something” and that wasn’t down to previous book relationships. The odd part skirted a 3/4 Star for me.

That being said the intrigue and mystery surrounding the serial killer and his intended victims kept me hooked. I found myself wondering the same questions as the characters and awaiting the moment everything would fall into place. The author carefully gives tidbits whilst holding firmly onto the answers. It all worked towards keeping me reading right to the last page.

I think I’ll be going back to the other books just so I can see how the other brothers found their lady loves and the details of their stories.
Profile Image for Petula.
2,763 reviews73 followers
September 13, 2018
Meeting two young friends who have a secret, out in the middle of nowhere at night is not the best idea. Forensic pathologist Dr Remie Tallin will come to regret that the decision leads to such tragic consequences.
A very clever scientist, straight out of a horror film has evil on his mind. Scary experiments that sound far too realistic are being carried out on unsuspecting victims.
Detective Billy McAllister is just back to work after his own brush with a crazy scientist. The last thing he needs from his first case with homicide are the strange discoveries he makes.
This is a very exciting and all too possible scenario. That's what makes it so scary.
This is part of a series that revolves around brothers, but it can easily be read on it's own.
Great fun.
Profile Image for Angela Hayes.
Author 2 books25 followers
September 10, 2018
I absolutely love Reily Garrett. She is definitely one of my favorite authors.
I was first introduced to her with Tender Echoes, a prequel to the entire McAllisster series; and I think each book gets better and better as she continues to raise the stakes to terrifying new levels and to flesh out characters that readers have come to love.

Following her foray into the dark side of nanotechnology, in Carbon Replacements, Mrs. Garrett immerses the reader once again into the all too frightening dark side of science.

Following the footsteps of a killer connected to unsanctioned stem cell and bioprinting experiments, the McAllister family closes ranks as brother Billy McAllister tries to protect survivor, forensic pathologist, and love interest, Remie from becoming both a human experiment and a body on her own slab!
Profile Image for Mary.
11 reviews3 followers
September 13, 2018
This my first Reily Garrett novel to read (I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review) and I have to say, that I'm impressed! Even jumping in on book 4, I never felt lost or that I was missing important plot points or character development. That being said-- what a great book! I was hooked from the first paragraph and devoured this story very quickly. Next stop: Book #1 of the McAllister Justice Series! Thank you, Reily, for an entertaining, well-written adventure.
Profile Image for Hazel Young.
19 reviews
September 13, 2018
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Another McAllister brother finds his woman as a result of investigating a macabre crime. There are multiple murders, abductions and an underlying theme addressing the ethics of creating human body parts by the process of bioprinting.

As always, the brothers come together to solve a crime which hits too close to home. The storyline is interesting and the book is very readable.
Profile Image for Teresa Reitnauer.
789 reviews5 followers
September 13, 2018
An excellent plot that catches the reader from page one. The characters are unique and believable. It is a great romantic thriller. I received an advance copy and I am voluntarily giving this review.
29 reviews1 follower
September 1, 2018
As always Reilly Garrett delivers another blockbuster book. The McCallister series is one of my favorite. I love to see how a family watches out for one another in any type of circumstance. This book is no exception continuing from the last one with the possibility of a crazy doctor stopping at nothing and sparing no one to further his research into creating new body parts. Can the McAllister brothers and the new ME stop them. Read on to find out. Would most definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,003 reviews42 followers
September 4, 2018
This is the 4th book in the series and it may be easier if you have read the other books in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. The story is fast-paced with loads of twists and turns. I was hooked from beginning to end. Billy and Remie are working together to catch a killer. The story really grabs you from beginning to end with plenty of drama, humor and suspense. The chemistry is steamy and the story entertaining.
Profile Image for Katie Phillips.
234 reviews
November 25, 2019
Great storyline! I could not figure out who the bad guy was, I loved the suspense all the way to the end. I really liked that it was sort of a continuation of the last book :) I also hope for another book! I received this ARC for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mel Allen.
1,107 reviews5 followers
August 28, 2018
I love the McAllister Brothers, this is Billy and Remie’s story. This book is full of mystery, suspense, passion and intrigue. Gripped from page one till the end. Had me guess all the way through never guessed who it was. So So Good, Riley Garrett is amazing.
Profile Image for Mary .
798 reviews55 followers
September 11, 2018
This is the fourth book in the McAllister Justice series and I am in love. I don't know where or how I found Reily Garrett, but she can keep writing stories like this and I will consume them in one sitting. This feeds my inner science lover and makes me think. This story is no different than any in the series, where they always leave me breathless and wanting so much more. She keeps me on my toes and constantly has me working to figure out who did it and in what fashion. She is one of the few mystery/suspense authors that has stumped me, EACH AND EVERY TIME! I LOVE IT!! I love that I never know where the kicker is coming from but boy does it hurt. 

As a total aside, I think I enjoyed this one the most because Remi, the leading lady, is a medical examiner. In a long-ago former life, I studied for my MCAT's, passed, and wanted to become an ME. What stopped me you might ask, working on living sick people. Yup, I'm the weirdo who loves the dead and finding out what stories and secrets they've left behind for us to discover. Now that you know that weird fact. On to my review.

Remi moved to Portland and is set up as one of the new medical examiners in town. As I read the story, she came off as a bit quiet, determined, and brilliant. She finds herself thrown into a hellish nightmare that will leave her reeling. Not knowing who to trust, Remi will be thrust into the McAllister clan, and Billy will capture her thoughts. I found it enjoyable and fascinating to read Remi. She is a character that is kind, humble, smart, curious, and strong. Reily wrote her in a way that ensnared me and brought me into this psychotic world that Remi was trying to escape from. Remi was a very well rounded character and written so well. She reminded me of some of my favorite female medical examiners from books and shows.

Billy McAllister is getting back to normal. After his previous encounter with technology, medicine, and the deranged, he is leery to trust anyone new. That includes his new partner Roy. When Roy and Billy stumble upon a horrific event, he finds Remi caught in the crosshairs of a sadistic mind. Billy will call in the family for this, as things only escalate to a point that could break him. Reily wrote Billy's journey in a way that was full of heart, and stubbornness. HA. Billy was not one who would easily admit to anything. I found it very realistic how she wrote his healing from the trauma he endured. Also how he stood up and by Remi. Through it all. 

The ENTIRE McAllister clan is back and makes this suspenseful story even tenser. I don't have siblings, but the bond this family has bled through the pages. It is strong, genuine, and true. I could read about this world all day long and not grow bored. Each character is unique and has a different area of smarts. It's captivating to read how all of these individuals fit together to make pieces of a whole family complete. 

I do not want to spoil, but the suspense, drama, murders, mystery, and case is a page-turner. I didn't want to stop or turn off my kindle on this one. There were so many red herrings. I kept thinking it would go one way, then BAM Reily would throw a right hook and I was knocked out. I could not have pegged who was behind the sinister masterminded plan of evil. I loved that I couldn't It made the whole story to keep me guessing until the end. The plot was full and complete. You didn't feel like anything was missing. I found the subplots got me excited, along with the foreshadowing for future books. I know at some point this series will end, but I honestly have to say I don't want it to stop. Reily made this captivating mystery/thriller/suspense that I could read and have it play like a movie in my mind. I am giving this 5 leaping pointe shoes and definitely recommend the entire McAllister series. 
Profile Image for Sandra Shipman ~ Two Book Pushers.
1,995 reviews50 followers
January 31, 2019
4.5 Stars

Carbon Replacements is the fourth book in the McAllister Justice series By Reily Garrett. You can read it as a standalone novel but I do recommend reading the series to get to know the secondary characters. I have been following the series from the beginning and always amazed at how much research has to go into writing it. So much.

Remi recently moved back to town after being away for school and for the beginning of her career as a Medical Examiner. She enjoyed her time away but it was time to come back to her roots. To the family ranch. Her parents have passed but she needed the fresh start. She was only home and working for a few weeks before she was in a horrible car accident. Then a week later, her life was at risk. From a killer. One that knew her by name. She didn’t see his face but clues have taken her to a twisted place.

Billy McAllister was the one who found her. And now he vowed to protect her. Even when she didn’t want him around and she wasn’t afraid to express it. She is definitely a feisty one. That was something Billy liked about her. Along with her smarts, independence, and compassion. But, it wasn’t the time to start something. They needed to find the person who is after her. And to do that, they needed reinforcements. They needed the McAllisters and their better halves.

I don’t want to get too much into the story. I don’t want to spoil anything. I will say that I had to know what was going to happen next. I don’t read many thrillers so it’s a nice change of pace once in awhile and I can always count on Reily for my fix. The writing is intelligent, witty, and fascinating. The relationship between the brothers is awesome. The woman even more so. Dirty birds.

Overall...it’s a crazy ride. I loved trying to figure out who the killer. Putting the pieces together is exciting. The romance part is there but not the center of the book. But it’s there and you can feel it. I have the next book on my iPad ready to go! I know it’s going to be awesome. Those two are hilarious.

Quotes:

“I’d intended to make this painless tonight, but since you ran, the deal’s off.”

“I think he’s hitting on our sister, dude.” More than one way to skin a cat.

“If you knew what I was thinking, you’d be screaming with your first orgasm of the night.”





162 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2019
~Sci-fi, Mystery, Action, Romance
~First, I’ll state that I received this book as a gift from the author to read and review.
~This is another good book in the series. It sort of follows up in the same theme of “Inconclusive Evidence”…a very intense medical, sci-fi mystery. Ground-breaking technology is a good thing…medical advances are can be a blessing… experimentation and testing are necessary…However, when a demented evil scientist goes too far -which they always do- the body count of innocent people rises and someone needs to step in and take action.
~I found this to be a very intense book from the very opening pages. Author, Reily Garrett, did an excellent job of weaving the story around the lives of the McAllisters. There were tensions among the family with the revel of certain growing romantic relationships…but they were worked out satisfactorily by the end of the story. Each book builds on the one before and helps to establish what is to come in the next one.
~As I mentioned above, this is a very intense story…the plot is complex and the bad guy is devious. Evidence can be twisted and reformed…making even the best of people look suspect. It is a nerve-racking path that the villain leads the reader on. I was disturbed, concerned, worried, that perhaps, justice might not be served…however, it all came together by the last chapter.
~Once again, I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good adventure-mystery…especially one with just a touch of romance added in for good measure.
5,495 reviews29 followers
October 1, 2021
Our hero and heroine both share a passion for separating fact from fiction, but when a killer makes that almost impossible, they are going to have to unit to survive.

This is book four of the series, but it does just fine as a standalone. There are some references to characters from the previous book, but nothing essential to this plot.

This is a romantic suspense story with a heavy accent on the suspense and thriller aspects. The romance sort of occurs naturally as a byproduct, which works perfectly for me. The story is well written, but not always easy to read as there is a lot going on. The plot also takes several turns that keeps the reader guessing and certainly kept me turning pages. Along the way, we get to know our hero and heroine very well and they turn out to have excellent chemistry. I really enjoyed how this entire thing developed and I definitely am looking forward to the next book in the series.

Highly recommended

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
16.7k reviews198 followers
September 11, 2018
This is the 4th book in this series, and is Remie and Billy’s turn. Remie is a forensic pathologist, and Billy is a detective, who comes to her aid when she is attacked. These two works together in order to trace a stalker who is targeting young woman. This is a well written story, with an in depth plot, which is filled with suspense, family and romance. I was intrigued and hooked throughout, and look forward to reading more of this talented authors’ work. The only down side in my opinion, is that there is such a number of details and facts flung at the readers from the start, that I found myself getting a tad confused.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.