What do you think?
Rate this book
Detective Marlitt Kaplan #2
The Professor
For fans of Tana French, The Professor investigates the darkest corners of academic ambition, lies, and obsession.
On a spring afternoon in Athens, Georgia, Ethan Haddock is discovered in his apartment, dead, apparently by his own hand. His fatality immediately garners media not because his death reflects the troubling increase of depression and mental health issues among college students, but because the media has caught the whiff of a scandal. His professor, Dr. Verena Sobek, has been taken in for questioning, and there are rumors his death is the result of a bad romance. A Title IX investigation is opened, the professor is suspended, and social media crusaders and trolls alike are out for blood.
Marlitt Kaplan never investigated love affairs. A former detective turned research assistant, she misses the excitement of her old job, but most of all the friendship of her partner, Teddy. When her mother, a professor at the university and colleague of the accused professor, asks for her help, she finds herself in the impossible position of proving something didn't happen. Without the credentials to interview suspects or access phone records, she will have to get closer to a victim's life than ever before. And she quickly finds herself in his apartment, having dinner with his roommates, even sleeping in his bed. But is she too close to see the truth?
In her relentless pursuit to uncover the mystery behind Ethan’s death, Marlitt will be forced to confront the power structures ingrained in the classroom against the backdrop of a historic campus and an institution that sometimes fails its most vulnerable members.
On a spring afternoon in Athens, Georgia, Ethan Haddock is discovered in his apartment, dead, apparently by his own hand. His fatality immediately garners media not because his death reflects the troubling increase of depression and mental health issues among college students, but because the media has caught the whiff of a scandal. His professor, Dr. Verena Sobek, has been taken in for questioning, and there are rumors his death is the result of a bad romance. A Title IX investigation is opened, the professor is suspended, and social media crusaders and trolls alike are out for blood.
Marlitt Kaplan never investigated love affairs. A former detective turned research assistant, she misses the excitement of her old job, but most of all the friendship of her partner, Teddy. When her mother, a professor at the university and colleague of the accused professor, asks for her help, she finds herself in the impossible position of proving something didn't happen. Without the credentials to interview suspects or access phone records, she will have to get closer to a victim's life than ever before. And she quickly finds herself in his apartment, having dinner with his roommates, even sleeping in his bed. But is she too close to see the truth?
In her relentless pursuit to uncover the mystery behind Ethan’s death, Marlitt will be forced to confront the power structures ingrained in the classroom against the backdrop of a historic campus and an institution that sometimes fails its most vulnerable members.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published November 14, 2023
About the author
Lauren Nossett
4 books273 followersLAUREN NOSSETT is a professor turned novelist with a Ph.D. in German literature. Her debut, The Resemblance, won the ITW Thriller Award for Best First Novel. She currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee.
Her second novel, The Professor, is set to be released November 14, 2023.
Her second novel, The Professor, is set to be released November 14, 2023.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
January 7, 2024
“I laugh. And for the briefest moment, I forget my scars, the smooth patches where hair doesn't grow. I could be anyone. We could be anyone. Just two semi-young people laughing in the sun.”
On a spring afternoon in Athens, Georgia, Ethan Haddock is discovered in his apartment, dead, apparently by his own hand. His fatality immediately garners media attention, because the media has caught the whiff of a scandal. His professor, Dr. Verena Sobek, has been taken in for questioning, and there are rumors his death is the result of a bad romance. A Title IX investigation is opened, the professor is suspended, and social media crusaders and trolls alike are out for blood.
Marlitt Kaplan never investigated love affairs. A former detective turned research assistant, she misses the excitement of her old job. When her mother, a professor at the university and colleague of the accused professor, asks for her help, she finds herself in the impossible position of proving something didn't happen.
This is the second installment in a series from Lauren Nossett, but can be read as a stand alone. As the title suggests, this takes place at a university. From the beginning, this book was captivating. I found myself invested in the story, its characters, and the outcome. There were multiple points of view, which I am always a fan of. One of the main characters, a former Detective, is very passionate about finding the truth, and is willing to do some crazy things to get it. The intertwining paths between the characters made it all the more interesting.
The Professor is a murder mystery with a side of personal politics. It was a tad sad, very suspenseful, and a highly engaging read that had me hooked from the beginning straight until the end.
Highly Recommend.
"Revenge will never solve anything. Karma will.”
Thank you Macmillan Australia for gifting me an advanced copy of The Professor for review.
On a spring afternoon in Athens, Georgia, Ethan Haddock is discovered in his apartment, dead, apparently by his own hand. His fatality immediately garners media attention, because the media has caught the whiff of a scandal. His professor, Dr. Verena Sobek, has been taken in for questioning, and there are rumors his death is the result of a bad romance. A Title IX investigation is opened, the professor is suspended, and social media crusaders and trolls alike are out for blood.
Marlitt Kaplan never investigated love affairs. A former detective turned research assistant, she misses the excitement of her old job. When her mother, a professor at the university and colleague of the accused professor, asks for her help, she finds herself in the impossible position of proving something didn't happen.
This is the second installment in a series from Lauren Nossett, but can be read as a stand alone. As the title suggests, this takes place at a university. From the beginning, this book was captivating. I found myself invested in the story, its characters, and the outcome. There were multiple points of view, which I am always a fan of. One of the main characters, a former Detective, is very passionate about finding the truth, and is willing to do some crazy things to get it. The intertwining paths between the characters made it all the more interesting.
The Professor is a murder mystery with a side of personal politics. It was a tad sad, very suspenseful, and a highly engaging read that had me hooked from the beginning straight until the end.
Highly Recommend.
"Revenge will never solve anything. Karma will.”
Thank you Macmillan Australia for gifting me an advanced copy of The Professor for review.
August 21, 2023
The protagonist Marlitt Kaplan was introduced to us in the Resemblance and this is an equally excellent sequel. Marlitt is no longer a police officer after the events of the first book and is working as a college research assistant. When a student dies by suicide, his professor is put into the spotlight for a possible affair with him. Marlitt begins investigating and finds herself right in the middle of a very dangerous situation.
This series is SO good and I really hope it gets the recognition that it deserves. Nossett is a skilled and sophisticated writer and the plot will draw readers in and wanting more. There are several very clever plot twists which I did not see coming. This series will please fans of Edwin Hill and Joanna Schaffhausen.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Flatiron Books and Laura Nossett for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This series is SO good and I really hope it gets the recognition that it deserves. Nossett is a skilled and sophisticated writer and the plot will draw readers in and wanting more. There are several very clever plot twists which I did not see coming. This series will please fans of Edwin Hill and Joanna Schaffhausen.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Edelweiss, Flatiron Books and Laura Nossett for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 31, 2023
**ARC of this book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
It takes some really good writing to make a book where nothing really happens interesting and this psychological mystery is a perfect example of that. Ethan Haddock, a college student, is discovered dead in his apartment with suicide note pointing finger towards one of his professor as a reason for his death. The Title IX investigation ensues witch brings a lot of media attention and complicates interrogations. A former detective - Marlitt Kaplan - starts her own research in hopes of clearing professor's name.
I really liked how this novel played on the themes of depression and mental health struggles among the students, university staff and even the main heroine - everything was described in a sensible way that made me feel for Ethan, professor Sobek and Marlitt. I guess that's also a trigger warning - if you are in the mentally bad place this book can be pretty challenging to read.
My only complain is that this story assumes that you've read The Resemblance, former book of this author, where Marlitt was introduced - there are multiple references to the previous installment and they were sometimes pretty baffling for me since I did not read it. So if you are interested in this position make sure you've read The Resemblance first.
Enjoyable.
It takes some really good writing to make a book where nothing really happens interesting and this psychological mystery is a perfect example of that. Ethan Haddock, a college student, is discovered dead in his apartment with suicide note pointing finger towards one of his professor as a reason for his death. The Title IX investigation ensues witch brings a lot of media attention and complicates interrogations. A former detective - Marlitt Kaplan - starts her own research in hopes of clearing professor's name.
I really liked how this novel played on the themes of depression and mental health struggles among the students, university staff and even the main heroine - everything was described in a sensible way that made me feel for Ethan, professor Sobek and Marlitt. I guess that's also a trigger warning - if you are in the mentally bad place this book can be pretty challenging to read.
My only complain is that this story assumes that you've read The Resemblance, former book of this author, where Marlitt was introduced - there are multiple references to the previous installment and they were sometimes pretty baffling for me since I did not read it. So if you are interested in this position make sure you've read The Resemblance first.
Enjoyable.
December 3, 2023
This is a slow-burn mystery that took a while to spark my interest. The plot is intricately executed as more evidence comes to the surface. The investigation is intriguing as Detective Kaplan puts the pieces of the puzzle expertly together. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. The narrator did an excellent job of bringing the story to life and navigating through the twisty story. Thank you, NetGalley for my audiobook.
November 14, 2023
I did not realize this was book two and while the story in many ways stands alone I think the first half was very slow and I felt like something was missing and if I had read that first book I feel like I might have felt differently. So I would suggest reading the Resemblance first (ironically that is one I checked one from the library but had to return before I could get to it). The main character Marlitt, or Marley, was hard to connect to and clearly stuck in half explained trauma from the first book. I think I would like her better if I had read that first book too. The mystery of this book was interesting and the second half of the book where that really picked up was good. I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did an ok job, but it wasn’t an audiobook where the narrator brought the characters to life for me. I loved the twist at the very end. Marlitt isn’t a police detective again but when her mother’s friend another college professor is accused of having a professor with a student who is found dead she asks Marlitt to help and clear her name. Marlitt can’t resist the case or the mystery and soon she goes from asking a few students some questions to immrersing herself in quite deeply, but unfortunately the concerns of an affair are the least of the concerns in the case because the student’s death appear suspicious.
October 30, 2023
Leave it to me to unknowingly pick up a sequel.
While the mystery works as a stand-alone, the overall structure of the book doesn't. Within the first 20%, I felt like I was missing out on some key information about the main character, Lee. She's in the middle of extensive trauma that isn't clearly explained. I looked up the author, and sure enough, The Professor is part of a first series. Based on the first book's blurb, all of Lee's trauma and character work is explained there. While I didn't mind Lee's character, she felt unfinished. Several side characters that play pivotal roles are underdeveloped and, lacking context, which I assumed I would've gotten with The Resemblance.
Key information aside, I liked the mystery aspect. A professor is accused of the murder of a student, and rumors spread that there was an affair. Lee works on the case for personal reasons and gets a raw look at academic life. The novel delves into the toll college can take on mental health, and the self-medication often used by students and professors. It also takes a look at the casual racism prevalent in society, and how rumors quickly spiral into dark and gruesome accusations.
The story did start off a little slow, but once it reached a steady pace I couldn't put it down. I listened to the audio version, so it was easy to put it on 2.0 speed and go about my day. The author didn't use a slew of red herrings and misdirection, so while the mystery was engaging, it wasn't hard to figure out. If you like mysteries that are really challenging and difficult to solve, this one might not be for you.
If the premise of this story interests you, read The Resemblance first. It will make the reading experience for The Professor much smoother.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
While the mystery works as a stand-alone, the overall structure of the book doesn't. Within the first 20%, I felt like I was missing out on some key information about the main character, Lee. She's in the middle of extensive trauma that isn't clearly explained. I looked up the author, and sure enough, The Professor is part of a first series. Based on the first book's blurb, all of Lee's trauma and character work is explained there. While I didn't mind Lee's character, she felt unfinished. Several side characters that play pivotal roles are underdeveloped and, lacking context, which I assumed I would've gotten with The Resemblance.
Key information aside, I liked the mystery aspect. A professor is accused of the murder of a student, and rumors spread that there was an affair. Lee works on the case for personal reasons and gets a raw look at academic life. The novel delves into the toll college can take on mental health, and the self-medication often used by students and professors. It also takes a look at the casual racism prevalent in society, and how rumors quickly spiral into dark and gruesome accusations.
The story did start off a little slow, but once it reached a steady pace I couldn't put it down. I listened to the audio version, so it was easy to put it on 2.0 speed and go about my day. The author didn't use a slew of red herrings and misdirection, so while the mystery was engaging, it wasn't hard to figure out. If you like mysteries that are really challenging and difficult to solve, this one might not be for you.
If the premise of this story interests you, read The Resemblance first. It will make the reading experience for The Professor much smoother.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance audio copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
November 13, 2023
"The Professor" was a solid thriller/mystery that kept me engaged while still being a little light on adrenaline or surprises. I wish I had realized that it was the second book featuring main character Marlitt Kaplan, an ex-detective who has experienced a professional disgrace and is now working independently as a research assistant. I think historical context provided in her first book, "The Resemblance," would have helped me connect more deeply with the plot, so I recommend all readers begin there!
Marlitt has been brought in by her mother to investigate the suicide of a student at a local university. Her mother is employed there, and one of her professor colleagues, Dr. Verena Sobek, is suspected of having had an affair with the student that led to his death. Marlitt's mother doesn't believe her colleague could ever have stooped to this level, and wants Marlitt to dig out the truth.
While I followed this one through to the end, I admit that it was a bit of a slow journey for me to get there. I think this is in part because police procedurals are not often my favorite — so if you're big on that genre, you're likely to enjoy this one far more than me and absolutely should give it a shot ... once you've read "The Resemblance" first.
Marlitt has been brought in by her mother to investigate the suicide of a student at a local university. Her mother is employed there, and one of her professor colleagues, Dr. Verena Sobek, is suspected of having had an affair with the student that led to his death. Marlitt's mother doesn't believe her colleague could ever have stooped to this level, and wants Marlitt to dig out the truth.
While I followed this one through to the end, I admit that it was a bit of a slow journey for me to get there. I think this is in part because police procedurals are not often my favorite — so if you're big on that genre, you're likely to enjoy this one far more than me and absolutely should give it a shot ... once you've read "The Resemblance" first.
November 19, 2023
2.5 rounded up
I tend to go into books somewhat blind, and did not realize this was a sequel. I don’t think it worked as well as a stand-alone book.
The main character references a previous case that caused a traumatic injury. Knowing more about what happened and her relationship with the other detectives would have helped me feel more connected to her. As it was, I felt like I was missing a big part of her story.
Definitely a slow burn book. It picked up towards the end but overall this wasn’t the book for me. If you have read the first book in the series I think this would be more entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I tend to go into books somewhat blind, and did not realize this was a sequel. I don’t think it worked as well as a stand-alone book.
The main character references a previous case that caused a traumatic injury. Knowing more about what happened and her relationship with the other detectives would have helped me feel more connected to her. As it was, I felt like I was missing a big part of her story.
Definitely a slow burn book. It picked up towards the end but overall this wasn’t the book for me. If you have read the first book in the series I think this would be more entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 16, 2023
So, here I am again, squirming with discomfort while trying to explain why I didn’t like a book the author no doubt labored over for months.
Upon starting this, I was almost immediately confused, feeling I was missing something important. About 15% in, I stopped to do a little searching, and found out I was clearly missing quite a bit. This book is a sequel to the author’s previous book, The Resemblance. I didn’t know that because it’s not mentioned anywhere on the cover or in the description, nor is it labeled as such in the book’s listing. (At least not at the time of this writing.)
Based on my experience, this book doesn’t work well as a stand-alone. This being a sequel absolutely should be made clear in the book’s description.
I didn’t feel we got to know the characters well. I also didn’t like any of them. We spend lots of time marinating in overwrought emotions of past events, which are constantly alluded to as if we should understand the depth of the misery in which these characters wallow.
I listened to this on audio, which might have added to my confusion. We have two female POV characters, and the narrator uses the same voice for each of them. One POV is Marlitt, the ex-cop, and her sections aren’t labeled at all. The other is the professor, whose sections are marked as “Her,” not actually using her name, which is weird. Also, the professor’s sections were from the recent past, whereas Marlitt’s sections were in the present. Or at least that’s what I concluded after spending way too much time trying to figure out who was speaking and when.
Honestly, I was getting a headache trying to put all the pieces together. At about 40%, I realized I just didn’t care.
DNF
*Thanks to Macmillan Audio for the free download.*
Upon starting this, I was almost immediately confused, feeling I was missing something important. About 15% in, I stopped to do a little searching, and found out I was clearly missing quite a bit. This book is a sequel to the author’s previous book, The Resemblance. I didn’t know that because it’s not mentioned anywhere on the cover or in the description, nor is it labeled as such in the book’s listing. (At least not at the time of this writing.)
Based on my experience, this book doesn’t work well as a stand-alone. This being a sequel absolutely should be made clear in the book’s description.
I didn’t feel we got to know the characters well. I also didn’t like any of them. We spend lots of time marinating in overwrought emotions of past events, which are constantly alluded to as if we should understand the depth of the misery in which these characters wallow.
I listened to this on audio, which might have added to my confusion. We have two female POV characters, and the narrator uses the same voice for each of them. One POV is Marlitt, the ex-cop, and her sections aren’t labeled at all. The other is the professor, whose sections are marked as “Her,” not actually using her name, which is weird. Also, the professor’s sections were from the recent past, whereas Marlitt’s sections were in the present. Or at least that’s what I concluded after spending way too much time trying to figure out who was speaking and when.
Honestly, I was getting a headache trying to put all the pieces together. At about 40%, I realized I just didn’t care.
DNF
*Thanks to Macmillan Audio for the free download.*
December 26, 2023
Marlitt Laplan is back in The Professor. After the events of the previous book, The Resemblance, she is no longer a police officer. She is working as a research assistant and living with her parents while her house is rebuilt. She is still suffering from the fallout of that last case, her relationships with former colleagues in tatters and her skin still repairing. But nine of this stops her mother from asking Marlitt to help her fellow German professor, Verena Sobek. She has been accused of being in a relationship with a student, a student that has just been found dead in his apartment, an apparent suicide.
Marlitt is not one to let rules and laws get in her way. She goes where others wouldn’t dare to get the answers,and of course, she puts herself in danger once again. I really like this character, she is not at all predictable and she cares about what she is doing. This is a slower burning mystery, but I found that I couldn’t stop reading it.
Thanks to Macmillan Australia for sending me an advanced copy of this book to read. An enjoyable summer read to keep you guessing.
Marlitt is not one to let rules and laws get in her way. She goes where others wouldn’t dare to get the answers,and of course, she puts herself in danger once again. I really like this character, she is not at all predictable and she cares about what she is doing. This is a slower burning mystery, but I found that I couldn’t stop reading it.
Thanks to Macmillan Australia for sending me an advanced copy of this book to read. An enjoyable summer read to keep you guessing.
January 14, 2024
I loved the Athens, Georgia setting – an unconventional choice for dark academia mystery-thrillers – and the carefully crafted prose. I got strong Tana French vibes, so it would be the perfect pick for fans of her novels. There are plenty of twists and turns, and the last 50 pages absolutely bulldozed my expectations.
My full review of The Professor is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
My full review of The Professor is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
May 24, 2023
5 huge stars. A great sequel. A wonderful continuation of the authors writing growth.
I really liked that it jumped between past and present, Marlitt and Verena and Him.
Great pacing throughout - build up, overall plot, the way clues come together.
The last 75% - huge fan. Couldn’t count number of times my jaw dropped as pieces fell into place. And I was still shocked when the epilogue hit.
I really liked that it jumped between past and present, Marlitt and Verena and Him.
Great pacing throughout - build up, overall plot, the way clues come together.
The last 75% - huge fan. Couldn’t count number of times my jaw dropped as pieces fell into place. And I was still shocked when the epilogue hit.
October 18, 2023
THE PROFESSOR is a entertaining book to listen to. The plot is interesting and I enjoyed getting to know Marlitt Kaplan. I didn't realize that THE RESEMBLANCE was the first book in this series but I feel like this can be read/listened to as a stand-alone. Throughout the story, there are many twists and turns and you'll find yourself trying to solve the mystery of Ethan's death. Even though I didn't solve it, I really liked the surprise ending. I'll be thinking about this story for a while.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for my gifted ALC.
This review will be shared to (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for my gifted ALC.
This review will be shared to (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
November 21, 2023
I really don’t know why anyone does what they’re doing, especially the main character who inexplicably involves herself into an investigation into a student’s suicide. (I know the reason the book gives us, so don’t @ me. It just isn’t convincing.) And she used to be a detective, but no longer is? I can see why, because she’s not very good at it. Tempted to create a “weirdly incompetent” shelf for this.
April 14, 2024
An honor student at the University of Georgia is found dead, and a former detective searches for the answers. It appears that all the evidence points to his professor, beginning the start of a witch hunt, or maybe a hard path to the truth.
Marlitt Kaplan has been wanting to solve a case. For months, she’s been less than popular at the Athens, Georgia Police Dept. Seems that she has refused to "play" by all the rules while investigating a local fraternity. She had resigned in disgrace which didn't help her relationship with her former partner and closest friend, Teddy. The whispers about her “assaulting a fraternity member” or having a “gender-coded psychotic break” only added fuel to the raging fire...literally... as someone broke into her house and set it up in flames. Now she’s living with her parents and bored OUT OF HER FREAKING MIND!
Then the police bring Professor Verena Sobek into the station for questioning. Verena’s student, Ethan Haddock, was found dead from what appeared to be a suicide, but rumors are going around that he and Verena had been sleeping together. Verena's facing an investigation for misconduct as well as murder, and Marlitt’s mother, her colleague in the German Department, begs her daughter to please prove that Verena’s innocence.
Marlitt is not comfortable working on behalf of the accused professor, but it allows her to investigate a case again, so she plunges into Ethan's world and soon discovers that her wish that the case had been a murder investigation may well be coming true. The story is filled with family secrets, rocky romances, a potentially "dirty" officer, and vindictive students. Despite a few opening chapters weighed down by exposition, the novel succeeds in being a page-turning mystery full of potential suspects, exciting twists, and a few red herrings. Just enough clues are dropped so the reader can investigate alongside Marlitt, but not so many that the ending feels given to us on a silver platter. It's an entertaining and well-presented mystery.
Marlitt Kaplan has been wanting to solve a case. For months, she’s been less than popular at the Athens, Georgia Police Dept. Seems that she has refused to "play" by all the rules while investigating a local fraternity. She had resigned in disgrace which didn't help her relationship with her former partner and closest friend, Teddy. The whispers about her “assaulting a fraternity member” or having a “gender-coded psychotic break” only added fuel to the raging fire...literally... as someone broke into her house and set it up in flames. Now she’s living with her parents and bored OUT OF HER FREAKING MIND!
Then the police bring Professor Verena Sobek into the station for questioning. Verena’s student, Ethan Haddock, was found dead from what appeared to be a suicide, but rumors are going around that he and Verena had been sleeping together. Verena's facing an investigation for misconduct as well as murder, and Marlitt’s mother, her colleague in the German Department, begs her daughter to please prove that Verena’s innocence.
Marlitt is not comfortable working on behalf of the accused professor, but it allows her to investigate a case again, so she plunges into Ethan's world and soon discovers that her wish that the case had been a murder investigation may well be coming true. The story is filled with family secrets, rocky romances, a potentially "dirty" officer, and vindictive students. Despite a few opening chapters weighed down by exposition, the novel succeeds in being a page-turning mystery full of potential suspects, exciting twists, and a few red herrings. Just enough clues are dropped so the reader can investigate alongside Marlitt, but not so many that the ending feels given to us on a silver platter. It's an entertaining and well-presented mystery.
January 6, 2024
Marlitt Kaplin is back.... she is a research officer and the book is set at the University of Georgia as was Lauren's previous book - The Resemblance. Having the back story and insight of Marlitt's character and why she left the police force from the first book is of value......this book can still be read as a "Stand alone"
Marlitt is asked to help out a colleague of her mothers at the University of Georgia. The colleague - Verena Sobek a Professor is taken in for questioning by the police when one of her students is found dead in his apartment. Rumours are circling, the professor was romantically involved with the student. As the investigation ensures, Verena is suspended from work, the media is quick to exploit the scandal.
As a former detective, Marlitt agrees to investigate, get the answers on what happened to Ethan and if any Verenas involvement. In doing so she puts herself as risk as the truth is revealed.
This book was a slow burn, it took a while for me to get into it, once the dots started connecting it was an enjoyable reveal and easy read over the holiday break.
Thank you to the amazing team at PanMacMillan Australia and Lauren Nossett for my ARC of this gem.... Out now in Australia.
Marlitt is asked to help out a colleague of her mothers at the University of Georgia. The colleague - Verena Sobek a Professor is taken in for questioning by the police when one of her students is found dead in his apartment. Rumours are circling, the professor was romantically involved with the student. As the investigation ensures, Verena is suspended from work, the media is quick to exploit the scandal.
As a former detective, Marlitt agrees to investigate, get the answers on what happened to Ethan and if any Verenas involvement. In doing so she puts herself as risk as the truth is revealed.
This book was a slow burn, it took a while for me to get into it, once the dots started connecting it was an enjoyable reveal and easy read over the holiday break.
Thank you to the amazing team at PanMacMillan Australia and Lauren Nossett for my ARC of this gem.... Out now in Australia.
March 20, 2024
Detective Marlitt Kaplan #2
The Professor by Lauren Nossett is a slow burn college campus mystery and definitely not an action-packed thriller, which is not a bad thing as I find dark academia fiction enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Marlitt, a former detective is a complex, fascinating and appealing character. Now a research assistant we follow her as she investigates and unravels the mystery surrounding the death of a college student.
This is a well-paced novel and will keep the reader engaged, burning with curiosity and feverishly turning the pages.
I can’t wait to learn more about her Marlitt Kaplan in the next instalment.
Listened to the eAudiobook via the BorrowBox app
Published by Bolinda/Macmillan Australia
Read by Saskia Maarleveld
Duration: 10 hrs, 32 min. 1.50x Speed
The Professor by Lauren Nossett is a slow burn college campus mystery and definitely not an action-packed thriller, which is not a bad thing as I find dark academia fiction enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Marlitt, a former detective is a complex, fascinating and appealing character. Now a research assistant we follow her as she investigates and unravels the mystery surrounding the death of a college student.
This is a well-paced novel and will keep the reader engaged, burning with curiosity and feverishly turning the pages.
I can’t wait to learn more about her Marlitt Kaplan in the next instalment.
Listened to the eAudiobook via the BorrowBox app
Published by Bolinda/Macmillan Australia
Read by Saskia Maarleveld
Duration: 10 hrs, 32 min. 1.50x Speed
September 3, 2023
First of all, I’m so grateful to have an advance copy of this book.
Second: as a disclaimer: I did not realize this was a continuation of another book. I saw the summary and was immediately intrigued. It wasn’t built like a sequel, and you don’t need a ton of context from the first book to understand this book.
And finally: Although this year I haven’t read a ton of them, I am a huge fantasy and thriller person, and I’m a bit nitpicky with those genres.
I wasn’t originally sold. I thought it was taking a while to build up and I hated the switch between Marlitt to “His” and “Her” perspectives. It’s not something I usually dislike, but for some reason in this book, it didn’t fully work for me.
However, the ending of this book was well worth the read. The plot twists were fine, but the epilogue sold the book to me completely. I just wish it didn’t take that long for me to fall in love with the book. I think Marlitt was an insane narrator, but I honestly didn’t mind. I found Verena’s narration to be a little boring and confusing, but I guess it paid off.
I think the only problem for me is how long the plot took to unfold before the ending. The beginning is SLOW, especially for a sequel. The ending felt rushed, even though you can tell based on the quality that it was very thought out. I wish I got more action within the thriller. I’m still not a huge fan of the change in perspectives, but I see the necessity behind them. A good thriller overall.
Second: as a disclaimer: I did not realize this was a continuation of another book. I saw the summary and was immediately intrigued. It wasn’t built like a sequel, and you don’t need a ton of context from the first book to understand this book.
And finally: Although this year I haven’t read a ton of them, I am a huge fantasy and thriller person, and I’m a bit nitpicky with those genres.
I wasn’t originally sold. I thought it was taking a while to build up and I hated the switch between Marlitt to “His” and “Her” perspectives. It’s not something I usually dislike, but for some reason in this book, it didn’t fully work for me.
However, the ending of this book was well worth the read. The plot twists were fine, but the epilogue sold the book to me completely. I just wish it didn’t take that long for me to fall in love with the book. I think Marlitt was an insane narrator, but I honestly didn’t mind. I found Verena’s narration to be a little boring and confusing, but I guess it paid off.
I think the only problem for me is how long the plot took to unfold before the ending. The beginning is SLOW, especially for a sequel. The ending felt rushed, even though you can tell based on the quality that it was very thought out. I wish I got more action within the thriller. I’m still not a huge fan of the change in perspectives, but I see the necessity behind them. A good thriller overall.
March 9, 2024
kinda okay if you want to waste your time. Kinda draggy but atleast interesting when come to plot twist. Typical obsessed over someone. Ethan characters is so sad, he just need someone 🥲
October 27, 2023
I recently had the pleasure of delving into a book that perfectly aligned with my reading preferences. This sequel, although part of a series, effortlessly stood on its own, allowing me to enjoy the story without feeling lost. As I immersed myself in the pages, I found myself deeply engrossed, appreciating the unique characters and the intricately woven plot.
One of the aspects I cherish in a book is my ability to connect with the characters on a personal level. This story delivered just that. I found myself genuinely liking the characters, empathizing with their struggles, and rejoicing in their victories. This emotional depth significantly enhanced my reading experience, making the characters' journey feel incredibly real and relatable.
Moreover, the plot was tailored to my liking, incorporating twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout. The seamless integration of dual timelines, a narrative technique I particularly enjoy, added an extra layer of complexity to the story. Witnessing these timelines come together in a cohesive and satisfying manner left me thoroughly impressed.
In essence, this book was a delightful read that catered to my specific preferences. It's not often that a story aligns so perfectly with my likes, and for that reason, I hold this book in high regard. If you, like me, appreciate well-developed characters, intricate plotlines, and the convergence of dual timelines, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel. It's a testament to the power of personalized storytelling and the joy of finding a book that feels tailor-made for your reading pleasure.
One of the aspects I cherish in a book is my ability to connect with the characters on a personal level. This story delivered just that. I found myself genuinely liking the characters, empathizing with their struggles, and rejoicing in their victories. This emotional depth significantly enhanced my reading experience, making the characters' journey feel incredibly real and relatable.
Moreover, the plot was tailored to my liking, incorporating twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout. The seamless integration of dual timelines, a narrative technique I particularly enjoy, added an extra layer of complexity to the story. Witnessing these timelines come together in a cohesive and satisfying manner left me thoroughly impressed.
In essence, this book was a delightful read that catered to my specific preferences. It's not often that a story aligns so perfectly with my likes, and for that reason, I hold this book in high regard. If you, like me, appreciate well-developed characters, intricate plotlines, and the convergence of dual timelines, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel. It's a testament to the power of personalized storytelling and the joy of finding a book that feels tailor-made for your reading pleasure.
June 23, 2023
Marlitt Kaplan may no longer be employed as an Athens, GA homicide detective, but being a detective is in her blood so she reluctantly agreed to a request from her mother who is a UGA professor. The request is to prove serious allegations against a friend and colleague are not true. Her friend Verenya has been accused of being romantically involved with a student who later committed suicide. A lot of attention is often given to the pressure of classes, relationships, etc. on the mental health and well-being of students, but what about the pressure put on new professors trying to prove themselves and obtain tenure? As Marlitt soon discovers everyone has secrets and is subject to emotional insecurity and manipulation, even herself. The Professor is a great police procedural with a serious look at the relationship between students and professors and at what harm can come from doing what you think is necessary to find the truth, and at how often lying becomes a necessary part of the process.
October 25, 2023
‘The Professor’ is a gripping psychological thriller with twists that keep the reader guessing until the very last page!
Premise - A German professor is accused of Title IX offenses after her star student commits suicide.
I love the academic setting and the commentary on how cutthroat the world of academia is - as the daughter of a professor it was really interesting and relatable.
The benched detective solving the case as a a favor to her mother makes allusions to a backstory that I must assume was in the first book in the series… this is a sequel, though I haven’t read the first book and don’t think the marketing is clear about this. The book worked as a standalone, except that our hero isn’t particularly likable or well developed in this book, so that connection might have happened in book 1.
Even so, this was an absolutely unhinged psychological thriller and I could not stop reading!
I hope there will be more books in the series - I will read them if there are.
Thanks, NetGalley and Flatiron, for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Premise - A German professor is accused of Title IX offenses after her star student commits suicide.
I love the academic setting and the commentary on how cutthroat the world of academia is - as the daughter of a professor it was really interesting and relatable.
The benched detective solving the case as a a favor to her mother makes allusions to a backstory that I must assume was in the first book in the series… this is a sequel, though I haven’t read the first book and don’t think the marketing is clear about this. The book worked as a standalone, except that our hero isn’t particularly likable or well developed in this book, so that connection might have happened in book 1.
Even so, this was an absolutely unhinged psychological thriller and I could not stop reading!
I hope there will be more books in the series - I will read them if there are.
Thanks, NetGalley and Flatiron, for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2023
This is the second installment in a series from Lauren Nossett, but can be read as a stand alone. As the title suggests, this takes place at a university. From the beginning, this book was captivating. I found myself invested in the story, its characters, and the outcome. There were multiple points of view, which I am always a fan of. One of the main characters, a former Detective, is clearly passionate about finding the truth, and is willing to do some crazy things to get it. The intertwining paths between the characters made it all the more interesting. It was a little sad, some suspenseful, and all around a great read/listen. I enjoyed the audio version and narrator, Saskia Maarleveld.
Thank you Netgalley, Macmillan Audio and Flatiron Books, and the author for granting me access to this ALC!
Thank you Netgalley, Macmillan Audio and Flatiron Books, and the author for granting me access to this ALC!
October 19, 2023
Wow! I really enjoyed this one. More than the first one (Lauren’s debut and first in the series) — which was also pretty good!
I might be a little biased as a UGA grad because I just absolutely love and get all nostalgic reading about books set at my alma mater.. it’s like a warm cozy hug to me and makes it so much easier to visualize the setting. But the plot and suspense really kept my attention and I never could have guessed all. of. those. twists!!! I’d call this a police procedural adjacent?? I just absolutely love Marlitt, the FMC, quirks and mistakes and all. Fingers crossed for more in this quasi-series (same characters, different story, can be read as standalone)!
Thank you so much to Flatiron, Lauren, and NetGalley for the early digital review copy!
I might be a little biased as a UGA grad because I just absolutely love and get all nostalgic reading about books set at my alma mater.. it’s like a warm cozy hug to me and makes it so much easier to visualize the setting. But the plot and suspense really kept my attention and I never could have guessed all. of. those. twists!!! I’d call this a police procedural adjacent?? I just absolutely love Marlitt, the FMC, quirks and mistakes and all. Fingers crossed for more in this quasi-series (same characters, different story, can be read as standalone)!
Thank you so much to Flatiron, Lauren, and NetGalley for the early digital review copy!
September 3, 2023
Even though the beginning was a slow reading for me, I enjoyed this thriller mystery. By the halfway point I was hooked and fighting not to cheat by looking over the last chapters. Marlitt Kaplan, is the main character, once a police detective, now no longer with the police department but still with the detective investigating in her. She takes on a who done it, why did it, clear an innocent’s name at her mother’s request. I would want to read more Marlitt Kaplan books!
Thanks to GoodReads, Flatiron Books, and Lauren Nossett for the ARC and the opportunity to read this novel!
Thanks to GoodReads, Flatiron Books, and Lauren Nossett for the ARC and the opportunity to read this novel!
November 21, 2023
I was SO excited to get my hands on a copy of this one after reading and loving Lauren’s debut! THE PROFESSOR is a standalone, but I loved how it built on what happened in THE RESEMBLANCE! It was so fun jumping back into that world + getting more of Marlitt Kaplan. Lauren Nossett is a great writer and really captures the dark academia vibes in her books.
April 27, 2024
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC to review.
I did not realize this was the second book in a series (nothing new there), and while I think it would have been beneficial to have read the first book, I did enjoy this one overall. The audio was well done, I enjoyed reading it this way and thought the narrators did a great job. Note that the first half is very slow but the second half picks up and that is where I really enjoyed this one. I was not able to figure it out which is always a good sign of a thriller to me. I do recommend this book but I think you should read the prior book before this one.
I did not realize this was the second book in a series (nothing new there), and while I think it would have been beneficial to have read the first book, I did enjoy this one overall. The audio was well done, I enjoyed reading it this way and thought the narrators did a great job. Note that the first half is very slow but the second half picks up and that is where I really enjoyed this one. I was not able to figure it out which is always a good sign of a thriller to me. I do recommend this book but I think you should read the prior book before this one.
Shelved as '2023'
June 13, 2024🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
March 12, 2024
The Professor is a mystery that looks into the death of a student by ex-detective Marlitt Kaplan. It is a character driven plot more than an adrenaline rush that most people prefer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews