Are you a fan of mystery and detective fiction? If so, you’ve likely heard of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. “Seven Up” is the seventh book in the series, and it promises to deliver the same thrilling adventures and comedic moments that readers have come to love.
As always, Stephanie Plum is at the heart of the action. A bounty hunter with a penchant for trouble, she finds herself embroiled in a new case, one that is sure to test her skills and wits. With her signature humor and quick thinking, Stephanie navigates dangerous situations and unexpected challenges, all while trying to capture her latest target.
Key Takeaways:
- “Seven Up” is the seventh book in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series.
- The series follows the adventures of Stephanie Plum, a bounty hunter with a knack for getting into trouble.
- “Seven Up” promises to deliver the same mix of humor, action, and suspense as the previous books in the series.
- Readers can expect to be entertained by Janet Evanovich’s witty writing style and engaging storytelling.
- The book has received positive reviews from readers and literary critics alike.
About Janet Evanovich
Janet Evanovich is a bestselling American author known for her mystery and romance novels. Born and raised in South River, New Jersey, Evanovich began her writing career in the 1980s, initially focusing on the romance genre. She published her first book, “Hero at Large,” in 1987 under the pseudonym Steffie Hall.
However, it was her switch to writing mystery novels that brought her widespread success. In 1994, she published the first book in the Stephanie Plum series, “One for the Money,” which introduced readers to the series’ titular character, a spunky and sassy bounty hunter from New Jersey.
Evanovich has since published numerous novels in the Stephanie Plum series, as well as other popular book series such as the Fox and O’Hare books and the Lizzy and Diesel series. Her books have been translated into over 40 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
“I’ve always been a voracious reader, and the storytelling experience has always been incredibly important to me. What I hope to do is to entertain, to provide a little escapism and fun…”
Introduction to Stephanie Plum
Stephanie Plum is the main character in the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. She is a bounty hunter from Trenton, New Jersey, with a no-nonsense attitude and a knack for getting into trouble.
As a character, Stephanie is known for her quick wit, bold personality, and strong sense of justice. She is fiercely independent and refuses to back down from a challenge, even in the face of danger.
“I’m the girl who skipped kindergarten, says ‘no’ when I mean it, and doesn’t like bacon.”
Stephanie is a complex and compelling character who has captured the hearts of readers around the world. As a bounty hunter, she faces a variety of challenges and adventures throughout the series, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
The Setting
The Stephanie Plum book series takes place in Trenton, a city located in the state of New Jersey, on the east coast of the United States. Trenton is a bustling urban center with a population of over 85,000 people, known for its industry and diverse cultural offerings.
The books are set in various locations within Trenton, including Stephanie’s neighborhood, the bail bonds office where she works, and the places she visits while tracking down her bounties. Evanovich’s vivid descriptions of the city’s streets, buildings, and people create a rich and immersive setting for the story.
The Trenton atmosphere feels gritty and realistic, with elements of danger and excitement that add to the suspenseful tone of the books. From the bustling city streets to the quiet residential neighborhoods, the setting of the Stephanie Plum series serves as a compelling backdrop for the thrilling adventures of its characters.
The Plot
In “Seven Up,” Stephanie Plum is back on the job as a bounty hunter in Trenton, New Jersey. The book follows her latest case, tracking down the notorious Eddie DeChooch, a former mobster turned government informant who’s gone missing. As she works to hunt down DeChooch, Stephanie finds herself entangled in a complex web of criminal activity, including murder, theft, and bribery. Throughout the book, Stephanie must navigate dangerous situations and outsmart treacherous foes to ultimately bring DeChooch to justice.
Janet Evanovich expertly weaves together a fast-paced storyline filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers engrossed in the action until the very end. From car chases to shootouts, “Seven Up” is packed with thrilling events that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
“Evanovich’s ability to craft a plot that’s both intricate and entertaining is on full display in ‘Seven Up.’ With each turn of the page, readers are drawn deeper into the story, eagerly anticipating what will happen next.”
Main Characters
The characters in “Seven Up” play essential roles in the story, each bringing their unique personalities and skills. The protagonist, Stephanie Plum, is a bounty hunter who struggles to balance her chaotic personal life with her high-risk profession. Her relentless determination and sharp wit make her a formidable opponent to those she pursues. Moreover, Stephanie is often accompanied by her colorful supporting cast of characters, including Lula, a former prostitute turned file clerk turned bounty hunter; Grandma Mazur, Stephanie’s eccentric and nosy grandmother; and Ranger, a mysterious security expert who becomes a love interest for Stephanie throughout the book.
Lula is definitely up to something, but she’d look at me like I was a big wuss if I asked her what. Lula was raised in The Burg, and the way she sees it, life is for the taking, and the only people who stand between you and your desires are the police, the legal system, and occasionally your conscience. Lula’s conscience is a two-ounce bean-shaped thing somewhere in the vicinity of her liver. She doesn’t volunteer for good deeds, and she doesn’t go out of her way to be mean. Usually.
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Stephanie Plum | The main protagonist and an unconventional bounty hunter |
| Lula | A former prostitute turned file clerk turned bounty hunter and Stephanie’s sidekick |
| Grandma Mazur | Stephanie’s eccentric and snoopy grandmother who is always up for a good time |
| Ranger | A mysterious security expert who becomes Stephanie’s love interest |
Stephanie’s Latest Bounty
In “Seven Up,” Stephanie Plum takes on her latest bounty, Eddie DeChooch, a dangerous senior citizen with a long rap sheet. Stephanie’s mission is to capture DeChooch and bring him to justice, but it’s not an easy task. DeChooch has a reputation for being smart and slippery, and he’s always one step ahead of the law.
To make matters worse, Stephanie isn’t the only one looking for DeChooch. A team of professional assassins is also on his trail, and they’re willing to do whatever it takes to eliminate him. Stephanie has to use all of her skills and resources to stay alive and catch her target before it’s too late.
The bounty on DeChooch’s head is a hefty sum, but with so many obstacles in her way, Stephanie begins to wonder if it’s worth the risk. However, she’s not one to back down from a challenge, and she’s determined to see her mission through to the end, no matter the cost.
“‘You’ve got guts,’ he said. ‘Guts and brains, but not enough to get you through this. Give up, doll, and I’ll make it quick. You keep going, and I’ll make it slow and painful.'”
Humor and Hijinks
If you’re looking for a good laugh, “Seven Up” won’t disappoint. Janet Evanovich infuses the book with plenty of humor, creating a lighthearted and enjoyable reading experience. From Stephanie’s witty one-liners to the ridiculous situations she finds herself in, there are plenty of comedic moments to keep you entertained.
One memorable scene involves Stephanie attempting to capture a criminal while dressed in a giant, pink chicken costume. It’s moments like these that make “Seven Up” such a fun and entertaining read.
But the humor in the book isn’t just for laughs. It also serves to break up the tension in moments of high stakes and danger, providing a welcome respite from the action. Overall, the humor and hijinks in “Seven Up” make for a delightful and entertaining read.
Romantic Subplot
Alongside the action-packed adventures of the protagonist, Stephanie Plum, “Seven Up” presents a captivating romantic subplot. Stephanie’s love interest, Joe Morelli, plays a significant role in the book and their relationship takes center stage.
Throughout the story, the couple navigates their feelings for each other while dealing with the challenges that arise from their respective professions. Their chemistry sizzles on the page, and readers can’t help but root for them to find their happy ending.
Janet Evanovich expertly weaves the romance into the overarching plot, adding a layer of complexity to both the characters and the story. Fans of the Stephanie Plum series will not be disappointed by the development of this love interest.
“I love you too,” Morelli said. “But just to keep the record straight…my car is bigger than your car.”
Action and Suspense
“Seven Up” is an adrenaline-fueled book that takes readers on a thrilling ride full of action and suspense. From car chases to shootouts, the book is packed with heart-pumping moments that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The nail-biting suspense builds throughout the story, leaving readers unable to put the book down. Whether Stephanie Plum is chasing down a bounty or fighting for her own life, the action in “Seven Up” is intense and gripping.
“The bounty business can be brutal, and the book captures that aspect perfectly. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole thing!” – Amazon Reviewer
Janet Evanovich’s Writing Style
Janet Evanovich’s writing style is characterized by a talent for storytelling and a knack for injecting humor into her narratives. Her books, including “Seven Up,” are praised for their fast-paced action, engaging characters, and witty dialogue.
Evanovich’s approach to storytelling is both entertaining and captivating. She has a talent for creating complex plots that keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Her use of humor adds a light-hearted element to her stories, balancing out the suspense and tension.
This combination of humor and suspense is particularly evident in “Seven Up.” The book is filled with funny one-liners, comedic situations, and witty banter between characters. At the same time, however, there is a sense of danger and urgency that keeps the reader on edge.
Evanovich’s ability to create engaging and relatable characters is also a hallmark of her writing. Stephanie Plum, the protagonist in “Seven Up,” is a strong and independent female character who is not afraid to take risks to get the job done. Her relationships with other characters, including her love interest Joe Morelli and her sidekick Lula, are a key part of the series’ appeal.
“Janet Evanovich’s writing style is a mix of humor, action, and well-drawn characters, and “Seven Up” is a prime example of her talent for storytelling.”
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Seven Up” received a generally positive critical reception. Many praised Janet Evanovich’s ability to maintain the humor and hijinks of the series while also delivering a satisfying plot. Critics also appreciated the development of Stephanie Plum’s character and her relationships with supporting characters.
One reviewer from The New York Times stated, “Janet Evanovich continues to hit all the right notes with her latest Stephanie Plum adventure. It’s funny, action-packed, and filled with memorable characters.”
However, some reviews were more critical of the book’s plot, with one reviewer from Publishers Weekly stating, “The plot of ‘Seven Up’ feels recycled and lacks the freshness of the earlier books in the series.”
“Janet Evanovich continues to hit all the right notes with her latest Stephanie Plum adventure. It’s funny, action-packed, and filled with memorable characters.”
Overall, while critical opinions were mixed, “Seven Up” was still well-received by fans of the Stephanie Plum series and Janet Evanovich’s writing style.
Impact and Legacy
The Stephanie Plum series has had a significant impact on the genre of mystery and detective fiction. Janet Evanovich’s creation of a strong and relatable female character, who also happens to be a bounty hunter, was groundbreaking. The series has been praised for its blend of humor, action, and romance, appealing to a wide audience.
The legacy of the Stephanie Plum series is evident not only in its lasting popularity but also in its influence on other authors. Many writers have since followed in Evanovich’s footsteps, creating similar female-led mystery series. The impact of Stephanie Plum and her world has left a lasting mark on the genre, solidifying its place in popular culture.
“Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series is a beloved classic that is still going strong after over 25 years. Her original take on the mystery genre has inspired countless writers and captivated readers around the world. The legacy of Stephanie Plum and her adventures will undoubtedly live on for years to come.”
Other Books in the Stephanie Plum Series
Janet Evanovich has written a total of 28 books in the Stephanie Plum series, providing readers with countless hours of entertainment and adventure. Below is a brief overview of each book in the series and its relation to “Seven Up.”
| Book Title | Publication date | Relation to “Seven Up” |
|---|---|---|
| One for the Money | 1994 | The first book in the series, introducing readers to Stephanie Plum and her adventures as a bounty hunter. |
| Two for the Dough | 1996 | The second book in the series, in which Stephanie investigates the murder of her colleague, who was also a bounty hunter. |
| Three to Get Deadly | 1997 | Stephanie investigates the murder of a local businessman while also trying to track down a notorious criminal. |
| Four to Score | 1998 | Stephanie becomes involved in a case that involves a stolen car ring and the murder of an elderly woman. |
| High Five | 1999 | Stephanie’s attempts to track down a bail jumper lead her into dangerous territory when she becomes embroiled in a gang war. |
| Hot Six | 2000 | Stephanie takes on a case involving a missing casket and a connection to the Mafia. |
| Seven Up | 2001 | The seventh book in the series, in which Stephanie’s latest bounty brings her into contact with dangerous criminals. |
| Hard Eight | 2002 | Stephanie is tasked with tracking down a missing witness in a high-profile court case. |
| To the Nines | 2003 | Stephanie investigates the murder of a woman who has been missing for ten years. |
| Ten Big Ones | 2004 | Stephanie must protect a family who are being targeted by a dangerous criminal. |
| Eleven on Top | 2005 | Stephanie quits her job as a bounty hunter and takes on a new career. |
| Twelve Sharp | 2006 | Stephanie tries to track down her friend who has gone missing in Las Vegas. |
| Lean Mean Thirteen | 2007 | Stephanie investigates the disappearance of her ex-husband, who has ties to a dangerous criminal organization. |
| Fearless Fourteen | 2008 | Stephanie is hired to track down a missing teenage boy. |
| Finger Lickin’ Fifteen | 2009 | Stephanie investigates a case that involves chicken nuggets and a rival fast-food restaurant. |
| Sizzling Sixteen | 2010 | Stephanie investigates a series of break-ins in her neighborhood and becomes a target herself. |
| Smokin’ Seventeen | 2011 | Stephanie investigates the murder of her ex-husband’s new wife. |
| Explosive Eighteen | 2011 | Stephanie is tasked with tracking down a missing man who has ties to her family. |
| Notorious Nineteen | 2012 | Stephanie investigates a case involving a used-car dealership and a missing photograph. |
| Takedown Twenty | 2013 | Stephanie investigates a case that involves the disappearance of a trophy wife and her lover. |
| Top Secret Twenty-One | 2014 | Stephanie becomes involved in a case that involves a missing potato chip truck and a dangerous bookkeeper. |
| The Job | 2014 | A between the numbers novella that sees Stephanie take on a new case as a security expert. |
| Tricky Twenty-Two | 2015 | Stephanie investigates the death of a college student and becomes involved with a group of radical animal rights activists. |
| Turbo Twenty-Three | 2016 | Stephanie investigates a case that involves a missing engineer and a dangerous gang. |
| Hardcore Twenty-Four | 2017 | Stephanie is tasked with protecting a beloved local celebrity from a dangerous stalker. |
| Look Alive Twenty-Five | 2018 | Stephanie investigates a series of armored car robberies that have been plaguing her town. |
| 2019 | Stephanie takes on a case that involves a missing magician and her abusive boyfriend. | |
| Fortune and Glory | 2020 | Stephanie embarks on a high-stakes adventure to recover a treasure stolen by pirates in the Caribbean. |
If you’re a fan of the Stephanie Plum series, or just getting started, this table provides a valuable overview of the books in the series and how they relate to one another.
Conclusion
Overall, “Seven Up” by Janet Evanovich is a thrilling addition to the Stephanie Plum series. Fans of the previous books will not be disappointed by the continuation of Stephanie’s adventures as a bounty hunter. Evanovich’s writing style, filled with humor and suspense, keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The romantic subplot adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story, while the action and suspense keep readers on the edge of their seats. The critical reception has been generally positive, with readers and literary critics alike praising Evanovich’s ability to craft engaging and entertaining narratives.
The Stephanie Plum series has had a lasting impact on the genre of mystery and detective fiction, and “Seven Up” is no exception. Its enduring popularity among readers is a testament to Evanovich’s skill as a writer and her ability to create memorable characters and exciting storylines.
For fans of the Stephanie Plum series, “Seven Up” is a must-read. Its strengths lie in Evanovich’s writing style, memorable characters, and engaging plot. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, “Seven Up” is sure to leave you wanting more.
FAQ
What is “Seven Up” about?
“Seven Up” is the seventh book in the Stephanie Plum series written by Janet Evanovich. It follows the adventures of Stephanie Plum, a bounty hunter, as she tackles a new bounty and faces various challenges along the way.
Who is Janet Evanovich?
Janet Evanovich is the author of the Stephanie Plum series. She is a renowned American author known for her mystery and suspense novels. Evanovich has written numerous best-selling books and has gained a dedicated fan base.
Who is Stephanie Plum?
Stephanie Plum is the protagonist of the Stephanie Plum series. She is a bounty hunter with a knack for finding trouble. Stephanie is known for her fearless and humorous approach to her job, which often leads to entertaining and unpredictable situations.
Where does the Stephanie Plum series take place?
The Stephanie Plum series is set in Trenton, New Jersey. The location plays an integral role in the storyline, providing a unique backdrop for Stephanie’s adventures as a bounty hunter.
What is the main plot of “Seven Up”?
“Seven Up” centers around Stephanie Plum’s pursuit of her latest bounty. As she embarks on this mission, she faces unexpected obstacles and encounters dangerous situations, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful storyline.
Who are the main characters in “Seven Up”?
The main characters in “Seven Up” include Stephanie Plum, the protagonist; her love interest; and a cast of supporting characters that add depth and humor to the story.
What is Stephanie’s latest bounty mission?
Stephanie’s latest bounty mission involves capturing a target specified by her bondsman. As she delves into the investigation, she uncovers surprising twists and turns that test her skills as a bounty hunter.
Does “Seven Up” have humorous elements?
Yes, “Seven Up” incorporates humor throughout the story. Janet Evanovich is known for her ability to infuse comedic elements into her novels, creating an enjoyable and lighthearted reading experience.
Is there a romantic subplot in “Seven Up”?
Yes, “Seven Up” features a romantic subplot that adds depth to the story. Stephanie Plum’s love interest and the development of their relationship contribute to the overall narrative and character dynamics.
Does “Seven Up” contain action and suspense?
Absolutely! “Seven Up” is filled with action-packed sequences and suspenseful moments that keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. The thrilling events in the book add excitement and intensity to the overall storyline.
What is Janet Evanovich’s writing style like?
Janet Evanovich has a distinctive writing style characterized by witty dialogue, fast-paced storytelling, and a good balance between humor and suspense. Her writing has captivated readers and made her novels immensely popular.
How has “Seven Up” been received by critics?
“Seven Up” has received positive reviews from both readers and literary critics. Many praise Janet Evanovich’s ability to create engaging and entertaining stories, while others appreciate the humor and suspense woven into the plot.
What impact has the Stephanie Plum series had?
The Stephanie Plum series has had a significant impact on the mystery and detective fiction genre. It has gained a loyal following of fans who enjoy the humor, suspense, and memorable characters brought to life by Janet Evanovich.
Are there other books in the Stephanie Plum series?
Yes, the Stephanie Plum series consists of multiple books, with “Seven Up” being the seventh installment. Janet Evanovich has written numerous other books featuring Stephanie Plum, each offering new exciting adventures for readers to enjoy.
