Arleen Alleman’s Mystery and Suspense Novels Feature adventure on land and Sea. Great Fiction Books: Five-Star Reviews, Other Acclaim, Videos, and Images
“Dear readers, I am so grateful for the lovely reviews of both the Darcy Farthing Adventures and my children’s book.
If you have any comments or questions about me or my work, I would love to hear from you. contact me.
Acclaim
Award-Winning Darcy Farthing Adventures
“Characters you care about, plots (and sub-plots) that hold your interest, and descriptions of cruising and island-hopping that make you feel the sun and soft ocean air in your face. What more could you want besides a cold drink and visor? Arleen really has a gift for setting her scenes and evoking the ambiance of a cruise ship, and this excellent first effort could be the start of a new sub-genre of murder mysteries”
“Alleman’s prose flows effortlessly as she combines mystery, murder, travel, history, and science into a fast-moving plot that is totally engaging. One of those books that I was excited to get back to for the unraveling of more suspense . . . and, a “must-read” for cruise ship lovers!”
Arleen Alleman wins 2012 Best Trilogy Award from BooksandAuthors for first three Darcy Farthing novels.
Currents of Vengeance, the second Darcy Farthing novel, was a finalist in the efestival of Words contest for best mystery/suspense novel of 2013.
Spirited Woman selected Currents of Vengeance for their Spring 2012 Top 12 Book Picks
Scroll the page or click on a book to find stories, excerpts from reviews, and videos.
Currents of Sin – Book Six
A Current Deception – Book Five
Alternate Currents – Book Four
Current Assets – Book Three
Currents of Vengeance – Book Two
Currents Deep and Deadly – Book One
First, a word about a delightful children’s book.
Sometimes Naughty-Always Loved: Mary and Her Big Cat Brain
A gentle lesson in unconditional love from the standpoint of Mary, a lovely tabby. With sweet illustrations and text, any child will cherish this book. This is also a great aid for children learning to read.
“As a grandmother I recommend this book as a thoughtful gift that children will enjoy.” -Amazon reviewer.
“Sometimes Naughty-Always Loved turns the traditional children’s storybook paradigm inside out. In it, the reader is treated to Mary the cat’s point of view and feelings. Rather than a narration from a child or pet parent, we get Mary’s perspective on day to day life in her family. Topics such as love, respect, discipline, obedience, and caring are all explored as Mary sees and lives them. I think children will make the discovery that their parents will always care for and love them no matter their behavior, just as Mary’s parents care for and love her in spite of her sometimes naughty behavior. The author reinforces the theme of unconditional love throughout the story, a timeless concept that will reward readers of any age.” -Amazon reviewer
Currents of Sin-Book Six
Series Finale: “Another fine addition to the Darcy Farthing series, Currents Of Sin tackles an emotive theme while delivering a highly enjoyable read. Sure to win favor with Alleman’s followers and new readers alike, it is strongly recommended.” -Book Viral
Top Shelf Magazine 2018 Contest Finalist
Currents of Sin
Homeless teens are disappearing from the streets of Las Vegas. Investigative reporter, Darcy Farthing, travels to Sin City to find a missing girl, Pammie Fleetfoot. Working with her friend and former LA cop, Tom Smythe, she soon learns the tragic reality of street teens caught in human trafficking for prostitution controlled by Asian gangs. Darcy and Tom form a bond with two frightened teen prostitutes, but soon after the two confront the girls’ young pimp, he is brutally murdered. Darcy blames herself and fears for the girls’ safety. When they refuse her offer of help and will not leave the streets, she realizes a self-styled neighborhood preacher has a mysterious hold on them. Meanwhile, violence and abductions are escalating.
While in Vegas, Darcy is staying with her best friend, Sid, who is receiving threats from an anonymous caller. Darcy fears that her meddling with traffickers is endangering Sid. In a shocking twist, a horrific accident changes everything, and Darcy is convinced it was deliberately orchestrated. Despite being injured, she won’t leave Vegas until she determines who is responsible, and what happened to Pammie. Darcy’s husband, Mick, a government investigator who’s been fighting depression, rushes to join her. With his help, she discovers a startling connection between the human traffickers, the accident, and an old enemy intent on revenge. When the police and FBI finally raid the traffickers’ prostitution ring, Darcy is caught between two vicious criminal networks.
“Far too many novels start off with good intentions but are poorly written, so when a novel like “Currents Of Sin” comes along it’s a genuine joy to read. Alleman sets out to deliver a full-on investigative mystery with a powerfully emotive theme and she does it well. The embodiment of independence, pluck, and quick wit, Darcy Farthing is back and this time, her focus is on Human Trafficking. A meticulously researched and wrought page-turner the overriding theme might be dark but with six books in the series, Alleman has developed a fun combination of intrigue, suspense, and acerbic dialogue with plenty of forward momentum. It’s a formula that works and keeps readers coming back for more, but the real measure of her latest novel is less what happens and more about the effects on her characters. This adds a level of complexity to Alleman’s plot and multiple narrative threads but as in her previous novels these are confidently juggled and come together for a polished and satisfying denouement.”
Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers’ Favorite
“Currents of Sin by Arleen Alleman is the story of a woman named Darcy, who is out to fight for the people who have no voice, but when the danger comes too near her and her loved ones, she has to end the violence that is plaguing their lives. . . . Darcy is not going to stop investigating but when someone targets her best friend, she knows the only way to end this is by doubling her efforts to end human trafficking.“
“What can I say? This novel, the storyline, and the characters really impressed me. This was my first time reading an Arleen Alleman novel and to say that I’m in love with it would be an understatement. I thoroughly enjoyed how she built the pace and the suspense and kept it alive until the very end. I really enjoyed Sid and Darcy’s friendship and the relationship between Darcy and Mick. There was a lot happening and everything made proper sense. It didn’t feel rushed and everything developed beautifully. This novel deserves these five stars and many more. Very enjoyable!“
Back to Top
A Current Deception-Book Five
“If you have never read anything by Alleman you are in for a thrilling and consuming adventure. Enough back-story is provided to make this a wonderful stand-alone read. If you have read other books in the series then you are going to absolutely love this one. I didn’t think it was possible for the series to get any better… I was wrong. Alleman blends all of the storylines together into one phenomenal and thrilling mystery. The writing style brings you directly into the thick of it. One truly feels a part of the story. You don’t feel as though you are simply being told a story… you are living it. That feeling of reality will be magnified if you have ever been aboard a cruise ship.“
“I can easily consume a lengthy novel in a day and at a rather swift pace. When reading an Alleman novel I slow way down. Not because it is difficult to read but because I don’t want to miss a single word. You never know when one small comment, thought, or knowing look can deepen the mystery or bring you closer to solving it. Believe me when I say you do NOT want to miss a moment. Aside from crafting stories filled with thrills, murder, criminal elements, suspense, and mystery Alleman also incorporates lots of historical tidbits and interesting facts about the location of her stories. I learned more about Australia through this work of fiction than I ever did in World History or Geography.“
“If I haven’t said this before I’m saying it now… Arleen Alleman is a name to watch. I predict big things will happen for this immensely talented author.” –G. Jackson
Five-star Review by Mystery Sequels
“A Current Deception is the 5th book in the Darcy Farthing mystery series by the author Arleen Alleman. I have read and reviewed the 4th book, Alternate Currents about a year ago, and the author recently offered me a copy of her latest book in the series hoping that I would pick it up to read and possibly review it as well.“
“The story unfolds at a fast pace giving me an urgency to turn the pages to see what comes next. Lots of stuff going on during that cruise, which makes for a very unforgettable trip (I can only imagine what the previous trip must have been like). To slow the pace down a bit, the author added lots of fun details about pretty much anything related to places and events. Great description of various parts in Australia, especially for a person like me who will probably never visit that continent. I even enjoyed those small chapters devoted to the ants – I’ll never look at those little buggers the same way again!“
A Current Deception
“The characters are great – you simply have to connect to them at a deeper level. Darcy has a great straightforward personality, she knows what’s right and wrong and never loses sight of what’s important even for a minute, especially when dealing with her daughter. I especially enjoyed the small Penelope, who is sharp-witted, and extremely observant. She did play a major part in solving the big puzzle on that ship and I hope she will be around in the next book as well.“
“I’m sorry I didn’t get to read the previous novels in the series, however, I can honestly say that both books I’ve read so far (Alternate Currents and Current Deception) stand well on their own. There is enough background information included to make things clear every step of the way.“
“Oh, and it was in this book that I realized what ‘Current’ means in this series and now that I know what the titles are all about – they do fit the stories nicely. Overall I loved this book and I’m looking forward to reading the new Darcy Farthing story whenever it’s out.“
Back to Top
Universal themes that strike a chord.
“Fans of the Darcy Farthing novels are sure to enjoy this new chapter in her saga. Darcy has become a friend that we enjoy welcoming into our home. We worry about her almost as much as Mick, but we eagerly wait for each new story to be revealed.” –Author Diane Rapp
“Arleen Alleman once again demonstrates her writing talent in a gripping novel filled with suspense and pathos. When spiteful and malicious motives spur a kidnapping, events rapidly spiral out of control. Darcy learns that her friend Charlie is kidnapped, and her natural instinct is to go help Charlie’s domestic partner, Don, and their 7-year old daughter, Penelope. The idea doesn’t sit well with Darcy’s fiancé, Mick. Based on past experience, he knows Darcy’s habit of “helping” often places her in mortal danger. He’s worried and rightly so. To complicate matters, Darcy and Nick are supposed to be planning a wedding of their own, but the stress of this situation could derail the nuptials.“
“Darcy gallantly risks her own life to protect her friends and solve the crime. There are so many twists and turns in the complicated plot that readers are taken on a wild ride. Greed, desire, guilt, and fanaticism embolden several treacherous villains, who lurk in the shadows waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Several culprits have a motive but which one has gone on a killing spree? Can Darcy survive against the menacing characters who stalk her friends? Will her own relationship with Mick crumble under the strain of a tempestuous separation? Will the wedding that Mick and Darcy planned ever take place? As Darcy learns more about her own character, she considers a new occupation, one that might place her in constant jeopardy. Will Mick support Darcy’s new career choice?“
Back to Top
Current Assets-Book Three
“I love authors who take their real-life experiences and incorporate the knowledge gained from those experiences into their writing, especially those who have worked within the Criminal Justice system or Government agencies. Arleen Alleman has clearly drawn from her time as an analyst with the Government Accountability Office to create this incredible novel. It is so very believable and I appreciate the research it must have required to bring such a thrilling story to life. “Current Assets” is written with such conviction that I’m not certain it is entirely fiction. The story is so well-crafted and plays out with such intrigue and higher-level corruption that it could easily be perceived as a true-crime novel.“
“Darcy is an amazing character and written in a way that shows her tremendous intellect, strength, and vulnerabilities. Though I have not read Arleen Alleman’s previous books in this series there is enough information and back story provided that this novel alone makes for a fully satisfying read. However, I will be reading the others in the series because I simply must know more about Darcy’s character. This book is exceptionally well-edited. I didn’t notice a single typo or grammatical error. There are no lulls in the story and it was extremely difficult for me to find a stopping point because I couldn’t resist reading just one more chapter which turned into five more before I knew it.“
“The characters and scenes are richly and vividly penned, giving the reader a multi-dimensional view of the people and places that are woven together to create such an incredibly thrilling tale. I truly enjoy books that can make me feel the danger and suspense and Current Assets does exactly that. This is a great read for anyone who enjoys mystery, thrillers, crime, high-level intrigue, dirty dealings, and gritty, intelligent suspense. This is the kind of book that stays with you long after you finish reading the last page (and one I will definitely think about on my next cruise out of Florida).” –G. Jackson
“Arleen wrote another fascinating novel! . . . Alleman brings back familiar characters from the first two novels, making established readers feel like they dropped in for a visit with old friends. We care about these characters, understand their flaws, and hope they work out their complicated relationships. Arleen always does her homework, weaving real facts into a sophisticated narrative, keeping readers on the edge of our chairs until we finish the story. Her new characters are well developed and suspense builds throughout the novel. The plot has plenty of intrigue and adventure, nail-biting scenes, and charming descriptions of Marco Island.” –Author, Diane Rapp
“This story is as exciting as the first two novels, and hopefully, a fourth will be coming soon. Current Assets holds your interest from page one. Alleman’s precision with every aspect of the book is a true talent that takes the reader on a well-crafted plot that includes suspense, romance, and mystery. The South Florida characters, on both sides of the law, are believable with real-life emotion, problems, and desires. Truly a great blend that makes this a terrific must-read novel.“
Back to Top
Currents of Vengeance-Book Two
“Currents of Vengeance is an exciting read . . . an exciting drama combining mystery, revenge, and vengeance on a cruise ship . . . Fascinating characters plus a solid plot make this a thought-provoking novel mixed with danger and romance.” –J. Weaver, Books-and-Authors.net
Review: Currents of Vengeance is the second book in the Darcy Farthing Novel/Mystery Series. The story takes place on the Sea Nymph cruise ship as in the previous book. Don’t worry if you haven’t read the first Darcy Farthing Novel as the author provides enough back story and delves into the psychological and emotional states of her characters so that this book makes for a great stand-alone story. Darcy and Mick each have their own reasons for returning to the ship. Darcy is looking for a sense of peace and closure to all that has transpired in the previous months. Mick is hoping to heal from the trauma and investigate and close criminal cases.
I had never given much thought to the legalities of “criming while Cruising” other than knowing I never wanted to end up at the mercy of a foreign legal system. Crime at sea poses such prosecutorial red tape that bringing criminals to justice can be a daunting task. Jurisdictional issues along with incompetence on the part of foreign investigators can leave many crimes unsolved. Mick hopes to bring a killer to justice with the aid of the former head of cruise security and the FBI in his role as an investigator for the GAO. As Mick struggles to investigate unsolved crimes at sea due to PTSD from his previous near-death experience a wave of new revenge based crimes begin. The title of this book is definitely fitting as vengeance for numerous perceived wrongs has deadly consequences. The danger becomes ever more present and Darcy, Mick, and Rachael (Darcy’s “lost” daughter with whom she is just beginning to reconnect) are all affected by the currents of vengeance.
As with other books in this series, this isn’t a simple whodunit. Alleman develops characters with their own multiplex of psychological struggles and does an outstanding job making the reader just as vested in the numerous sub-plots as the main storyline. I found Currents of Vengeance to be even more emotionally complex than the first book in the series, further endearing me to Darcy, Mick, and Rachael.”–G. Jackson
Review: The author explores the effects of trauma on rational minds and helps readers identify with her characters . . . and explores the issue of cruise ship security and safety. As Americans, we normally feel protected by the laws of our country, but who protects us when we sail in international waters? If a ship runs into a reef or a murder occurs onboard, who is in charge of the investigation? I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy a thought-provoking novel filled with danger and romance. –Author, Diane Rapp.
Back to Top
Currents Deep and Deadly-Book One
“A visually- and emotionally-rich story of personal greed and desperation . . . set on a cruise ship and in historic South American seaports. Plots and subplots abound in a delicious blend of fiction and fact with vivid descriptions and compelling characters . . . exciting can’t-put-it-down novel tackling the timely issues of crime and justice in international waters.”
Review: I love to go on cruises, but would I still look forward to cruising after reading Arleen Alleman’s suspense novel, Currents Deep and Deadly? Alleman weaves an intricate spell showing that cruises aren’t only romance and adventure on the high seas, but intrigue, deception, and sometimes murder as well. She deftly introduces a complex cast of characters, including heroine Darcy Farthing who overhears two men possibly discussing foul play. With Darcy’s new love interest, several murders, and a string of bizarre coincidences, the reader is kept guessing to the end. –Author, M.B. Tosi.
Review: Alleman’s ability to tell a story is incredible. Her writing ability in developing such an intricate plot and pulling it off is superb. In the ending, she neatly wraps up all loose ends of the many threads – for this story, that is. The ending is satisfying and stunningly more than expected . . . But then the conclusion is actually fodder for the sequel. With these characters’ lives so entwined, I need to know what happens to them after the ending. –Author, Mary Deal.
Review: Great Read – Mystery, Travel, Adventure. Arleen Alleman has done a great job at writing her first novel in Currents Deep and Deadly. With a mix of adventure, mystery, murder, and romance on a luxury cruise ship, the story will not disappoint. Alleman’s character development is superb and her writing style is captivating . . . A great read and I am looking forward to more works by Ms. Alleman” –BookBuzz
A Luxury Cruise Turns Deadly, by Reader’s Choice
Find adventure, romance, mystery, bizarre interconnected coincidences, brutal murders, and a journey of self-discovery on a luxury cruise ship in Currents Deep and Deadly. Author Arleen Alleman introduces her main characters with plenty of description and back story while showing the events that brought each on the month-long South American cruise. In the end, the author wraps up the loose ends while nicely setting up the sequel. Arleen Alleman has done her homework. I came away with a clear picture of the shore excursion tour stops thanks to the well-researched details of the villages, townspeople, and scenery. Alleman knows her way around a cruise ship as well, cleverly inserting the ship’s specs and dimensions to make me feel as though I was on board. Darcy is an interesting, realistic protagonist and she has immediate chemistry with Mick as her side-kick love interest.