Firstly, I must warn potential readers that the blurb is very misleading. Zoey and Nick together do NOT find anything in the attic. Nor, does Zoey aloFirstly, I must warn potential readers that the blurb is very misleading. Zoey and Nick together do NOT find anything in the attic. Nor, does Zoey alone find anything of interest in the attic. Did the person who wrote the blurb actually read the book? OR, was the book edited since the blurb was written?
The setting was sublime. An island off the coast of Rhode Island with few year-round residents, but many seasonal property owners. Ivy's house was situated on a hill over-looking the harbor.
The characters were portrayed in a genuine way, so were easy to relate to.
The plot was a tad predictable, but when you read a book in this genre, you come to expect that - and perhaps welcome it.
This is women's fiction with more than a dash of romance. It is a story of family allegiances, family secrets, and inter-generational relationships that culminate in a 'happy ever after' ending. Recommended!
3.5 stars rounded up
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Firstly, I must warn potential readers that the blurb is very misleading. Zoey and Nick together do NOT find anything in the attic. Nor, does Zoey alone find anything of interest in the attic. Did the person who wrote the blurb actually read the book? OR, was the book edited since the blurb was written?
The setting was sublime. An island off the coast of Rhode Island with few year-round residents, but many seasonal property owners. Ivy's house was situated on a hill over-looking the harbor.
The characters were portrayed in a genuine way, so were easy to relate to.
The plot was a tad predictable, but when you read a book in this genre, you come to expect that - and perhaps welcome it.
This is women's fiction with more than a dash of romance. It is a story of family allegiances, family secrets, and inter-generational relationships that culminate in a 'happy ever after' ending. Recommended!
I'm worn out. This novel was one of the most intense novels I've ever read.
Set in a very isolated, maximum security prison hospital, the novel was so I'm worn out. This novel was one of the most intense novels I've ever read.
Set in a very isolated, maximum security prison hospital, the novel was so claustrophobic that I longed to leave there... but not before I found out what happened of course. The place was so very remote that staff had to live in, making it a prison for the people who worked there as well. We don't know where the Institution was, only that it was a mountainous region, maybe Austria? Switzerland?
The protagonist, Dr. Connie Woolwine was very believable and admirable, yet she wasn't without her own personal demons.
An incredibly brutal and grotesque crime has been carried out. Everyone who resides at the Institution is suspect, both inmates, and staff. Dr. Connie and her partner Baarda (an investigator and retired policeman) have entered the Institution under cover. She as a visiting psychologist, and he as an inmate.
Their time under the Institution's roof is gut-wrenchingly tense, fraught with peril and suspicion. No one can be trusted.
A book of manipulative, psychotic minds, of brutal and graphic descriptions of crime, and of the altruistic and brave people who are willing to risk their own personal safety to solve a barbaric crime and save the life of an innocent.
As if things weren't disturbing and nerve-shattering enough, a vicious storm comes and makes all who reside at the Institution at the mercy of nature, and even more isolated than they were before...
Nerve-jarring suspense ratchets up to almost unbearable tension as plot twists reveal some very real monsters.
Though this is the second novel to feature Dr. Connie Woolwine and investigator Baarda, it reads excellently as a stand-alone. That being said, I would at some point like to read "The Shadow Man", the first novel in which they appear.
Highly recommended to those who enjoy very intense thrillers who are not in any way squeamish. The story was compelling and kept me riveted from first page to last.
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I'm worn out. This novel was one of the most intense novels I've ever read.
Set in a very isolated, maximum security prison hospital, the novel was so claustrophobic that I longed to leave there... but not before I found out what happened of course. The place was so very remote that staff had to live in, making it a prison for the people who worked there as well. We don't know where the Institution was, only that it was a mountainous region, maybe Austria? Switzerland?
The protagonist, Dr. Connie Woolwine was very believable and admirable, yet she wasn't without her own personal demons.
An incredibly brutal and grotesque crime has been carried out. Everyone who resides at the Institution is suspect, both inmates, and staff. Dr. Connie and her partner Baarda (an investigator and retired policeman) have entered the Institution under cover. She as a visiting psychologist, and he as an inmate.
Their time under the Institution's roof is gut-wrenchingly tense, fraught with peril and suspicion. No one can be trusted.
A book of manipulative, psychotic minds, of brutal and graphic descriptions of crime, and of the altruistic and brave people who are willing to risk their own personal safety to solve a barbaric crime and save the life of an innocent.
As if things weren't disturbing and nerve-shattering enough, a vicious storm comes and makes all who reside at the Institution at the mercy of nature, and even more isolated than they were before...
Nerve-jarring suspense ratchets up to almost unbearable tension as plot twists reveal some very real monsters.
Though this is the second novel to feature Dr. Connie Woolwine and investigator Baarda, it reads excellently as a stand-alone. That being said, I would at some point like to read "The Shadow Man", the first novel in which they appear.
Highly recommended to those who enjoy very intense thrillers who are not in any way squeamish. The story was compelling and kept me riveted from first page to last....more
The crime fighting team of Jessie Boyle, Seamus Keneally, and Terri Kehoe make for the perfect team in that their various strengths, combined with theThe crime fighting team of Jessie Boyle, Seamus Keneally, and Terri Kehoe make for the perfect team in that their various strengths, combined with their real affection for one another, make them formidable adversaries. As with the previous books in this series, it is the rapport and camaraderie between the members of the crime fighting team that kept me thoroughly invested in the outcome.
The fate of little Rosie Blake keeps the reader rooting for the team's success. Along the way they encounter gangsters, corrupt financiers, morally bereft lawyers, old Irish sects, and the famous Dublin "Hellfire Club".
The great characterization of the small investigating team, along with the Irish setting and lore have kept me invested in this series and I'm already looking forward to book four.
The crime fighting team of Jessie Boyle, Seamus Keneally, and Terri Kehoe make for the perfect team in that their various strengths, combined with their real affection for one another, make them formidable adversaries. As with the previous books in this series, it is the rapport and camaraderie between the members of the crime fighting team that kept me thoroughly invested in the outcome.
The fate of little Rosie Blake keeps the reader rooting for the team's success. Along the way they encounter gangsters, corrupt financiers, morally bereft lawyers, old Irish sects, and the famous Dublin "Hellfire Club".
The great characterization of the small investigating team, along with the Irish setting and lore have kept me invested in this series and I'm already looking forward to book four.
I always enjoy police procedurals, especially when the protagonist has a troubled personal background. DS Craig Wild certainly fits the bill.
The settiI always enjoy police procedurals, especially when the protagonist has a troubled personal background. DS Craig Wild certainly fits the bill.
The setting and the police team were interesting to become acquainted with. The murder investigation was a tad convoluted, and hard to follow. The motives seemed insufficiently strong for the crime, in my opinion. Also, in concurrence with the Wiltshire murder enquiry, DS Wild still has a residual case ongoing in London, which further muddies the waters.
My favourite character was the rookie policewoman Marnie Olsen. She was smarter and more ambitious than her male counterparts, and I can see a bright future for her. Apparently the author thought so too, as she figures prominently in the second book.
All in all, a decent series debut, but not my personal favourite. I did enjoy it enough to have the second novel "West Country Murder" already loaded on my Kindle.
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I always enjoy police procedurals, especially when the protagonist has a troubled personal background. DS Craig Wild certainly fits the bill.
The setting and the police team were interesting to become acquainted with. The murder investigation was a tad convoluted, and hard to follow. The motives seemed insufficiently strong for the crime, in my opinion. Also, in concurrence with the Wiltshire murder enquiry, DS Wild still has a residual case ongoing in London, which further muddies the waters.
My favourite character was the rookie policewoman Marnie Olsen. She was smarter and more ambitious than her male counterparts, and I can see a bright future for her. Apparently the author thought so too, as she figures prominently in the second book.
All in all, a decent series debut, but not my personal favourite. I did enjoy it enough to have the second novel "West Country Murder" already loaded on my Kindle....more
Wow! What an unexpected, twisty, compelling novel! I know that this book will undoubtedly make my 2022 'Best List'.
Difficult to review without spoilinWow! What an unexpected, twisty, compelling novel! I know that this book will undoubtedly make my 2022 'Best List'.
Difficult to review without spoiling it for others, so I'll keep this very short.
First of all I adored the protagonist. Sadie Levesque was a feisty young woman whom I both admired and empathized with. The writing was both powerful and absorbing. The plot was original and engrossing - packed with red herrings, unexpected twists, and Scottish folklore.
The themes covered in this story are many. Parenting and its many challenges. Consequences of actions are far-reaching and can often involve ethical compromises. Today's modern world is only a hair's breadth away from ancient folklore and pagan ritual and history has lost some of its veracity in the re-tellings over time.
The ending was surprising, original, and left me bereft. I absolutely loved this crime thriller and will recommend it highly to all my crime fiction loving friends.
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Wow! What an unexpected, twisty, compelling novel! I know that this book will undoubtedly make my 2022 'Best List'.
Difficult to review without spoiling it for others, so I'll keep this very short.
First of all I adored the protagonist. Sadie Levesque was a feisty young woman whom I both admired and empathized with. The writing was both powerful and absorbing. The plot was original and engrossing - packed with red herrings, unexpected twists, and Scottish folklore.
The themes covered in this story are many. Parenting and its many challenges. Consequences of actions are far-reaching and can often involve ethical compromises. Today's modern world is only a hair's breadth away from ancient folklore and pagan ritual and history has lost some of its veracity in the re-tellings over time.
The ending was surprising, original, and left me bereft. I absolutely loved this crime thriller and will recommend it highly to all my crime fiction loving friends....more
With a stunning setting, empathetic characters, and a myriad of secrets, this warm-hearted romance novel ticked all the boxes. I mean, with a place caWith a stunning setting, empathetic characters, and a myriad of secrets, this warm-hearted romance novel ticked all the boxes. I mean, with a place called Heaven's Cove, how could it not?
The ramshackle old Driftwood House high on the hill overlooking the scenic Devon coast was a host to the secrets that shrouded Rosie's life. She hasn't returned to her home is some time and has been living and working in Spain. Now, sadly, her mother Sofia has passed away at a very early age due to a stroke. Rosie returns to Driftwood House to sort her Mum's affairs. She discovers secret after secret and more than one unwelcome surprise. She begins to wonder... did she know her mother at all??? The tiny village and its gossiping residents welcome Rosie back into the fold and local farmer Liam helps her out sprucing up the old house.
Themes of betrayal, bereavement, duplicity, and family secrets permeate the story.
As with many a romance novel, this one was fairly predictable. However... the journey to the predictable ending was an entertaining and enjoyable one.
This book was the first in a series of four titles set in the charming Heaven's Cove, Devon. I intend to read them all!
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With a stunning setting, empathetic characters, and a myriad of secrets, this warm-hearted romance novel ticked all the boxes. I mean, with a place called Heaven's Cove, how could it not?
The ramshackle old Driftwood House high on the hill overlooking the scenic Devon coast was a host to the secrets that shrouded Rosie's life. She hasn't returned to her home is some time and has been living and working in Spain. Now, sadly, her mother Sofia has passed away at a very early age due to a stroke. Rosie returns to Driftwood House to sort her Mum's affairs. She discovers secret after secret and more than one unwelcome surprise. She begins to wonder... did she know her mother at all??? The tiny village and its gossiping residents welcome Rosie back into the fold and local farmer Liam helps her out sprucing up the old house.
Themes of betrayal, bereavement, duplicity, and family secrets permeate the story.
As with many a romance novel, this one was fairly predictable. However... the journey to the predictable ending was an entertaining and enjoyable one.
This book was the first in a series of four titles set in the charming Heaven's Cove, Devon. I intend to read them all!...more
Firstly, I have to say that this novel reads like a traditional, old-school, murder mystery novel reminiscent of Christie, Sayers, and the like.
UniqueFirstly, I have to say that this novel reads like a traditional, old-school, murder mystery novel reminiscent of Christie, Sayers, and the like.
Unique in its setting, the real-life, world renowned police college in Hampshire called Bramshill, the murder investigation is almost solely comprised of police officers and their families.
I enjoyed the moral dilemma that Blade was experiencing with his wife and son clearly suspects in the murder. Other professional allegiances were tested as well.
The plot was well-paced and the writing polished. The final reveal, like all traditional mystery stories took place with all of the suspects gathered together in one room.
This police procedural murder mystery covered themes of ambition and blackmail. I enjoyed the read and I'm curious as to why this is the first in a prospective series featuring DI Dorothy Fraser and not Detective Superintendent Ralph Blade who was clearly the protagonist...
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Firstly, I have to say that this novel reads like a traditional, old-school, murder mystery novel reminiscent of Christie, Sayers, and the like.
Unique in its setting, the real-life, world renowned police college in Hampshire called Bramshill, the murder investigation is almost solely comprised of police officers and their families.
I enjoyed the moral dilemma that Blade was experiencing with his wife and son clearly suspects in the murder. Other professional allegiances were tested as well.
The plot was well-paced and the writing polished. The final reveal, like all traditional mystery stories took place with all of the suspects gathered together in one room.
This police procedural murder mystery covered themes of ambition and blackmail. I enjoyed the read and I'm curious as to why this is the first in a prospective series featuring DI Dorothy Fraser and not Detective Superintendent Ralph Blade who was clearly the protagonist......more
"Shared Sorrows" is a thoughtful and engrossing work of literary fiction. Fitting, because the protagonist, Frank DioGuardia, is a professor of litera"Shared Sorrows" is a thoughtful and engrossing work of literary fiction. Fitting, because the protagonist, Frank DioGuardia, is a professor of literature.
Frank, who is in late middle age, is approaching the anniversary of his father's death that will signify that he has outlived his father. This has always been a milestone for him, a goal... But this year events conspire to change Frank's mindset dramatically. He takes part in the annual NYC Columbus Day Parade in his Knights of Columbus attire. To prevent a criminal act he uses his ceremonial sword and injures a man. A life changing event that precedes an enlightening and introspective look at his life and his beliefs.
Integral to his life-altering experience is Dr. Laurie McDevitt, the physician who treats him in the ER after the incident. They form an instant rapport due to their 'shared sorrows'. She lost her father on the same date that he did. Frank is married and the father of three adult children. Don't be mislead, this is not a story of infidelity. Rather it is a story of one man's epiphany - when he discovers his life to be fraudulent. A personality crisis of gigantic proportions.
The media jump upon Frank and create a frenzy that impacts his life and the lives of those who care for him. One pivotal event follows another...
"Shared Sorrows" is an eloquently written novel that touches upon several serious subjects. The mystery of marital relationships, faith and religion, politics and totalitarianism, perception generated by media, and corruption within the Catholic Church. Republicans be warned... there is even some Trump bashing (which I personally appreciated).
I would recommend this novel to readers who like measured, introspective, literary fiction.
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"Shared Sorrows" is a thoughtful and engrossing work of literary fiction. Fitting, because the protagonist, Frank DioGuardia, is a professor of literature.
Frank, who is in late middle age, is approaching the anniversary of his father's death that will signify that he has outlived his father. This has always been a milestone for him, a goal... But this year events conspire to change Frank's mindset dramatically. He takes part in the annual NYC Columbus Day Parade in his Knights of Columbus attire. To prevent a criminal act he uses his ceremonial sword and injures a man. A life changing event that precedes an enlightening and introspective look at his life and his beliefs.
Integral to his life-altering experience is Dr. Laurie McDevitt, the physician who treats him in the ER after the incident. They form an instant rapport due to their 'shared sorrows'. She lost her father on the same date that he did. Frank is married and the father of three adult children. Don't be mislead, this is not a story of infidelity. Rather it is a story of one man's epiphany - when he discovers his life to be fraudulent. A personality crisis of gigantic proportions.
The media jump upon Frank and create a frenzy that impacts his life and the lives of those who care for him. One pivotal event follows another...
"Shared Sorrows" is an eloquently written novel that touches upon several serious subjects. The mystery of marital relationships, faith and religion, politics and totalitarianism, perception generated by media, and corruption within the Catholic Church. Republicans be warned... there is even some Trump bashing (which I personally appreciated).
I would recommend this novel to readers who like measured, introspective, literary fiction....more
This novel was heart-warming and filled with delightful, likeable characters. Set in Dublin in the 1950s, it was peopled with mostly Catholic women - This novel was heart-warming and filled with delightful, likeable characters. Set in Dublin in the 1950s, it was peopled with mostly Catholic women - women who had faced adversity of one kind or another.
Mary Kate Ryan was a wonderful character, though to be honest I found her a little to good to be true. She was a woman who having had very little, then inheriting a fortune, decided to 'pay it forward' by assisting others who were alone, or down on their luck. The boarding house was a warm refuge, filled with caring people. People who, though not related by blood were indeed a sort of 'family'. It was the sort of place you would want to live yourself.
If I had one bone to pick about this novel, it is that it is a little too saccharine. If you like your fiction to have a rosy hue shed by rose coloured glasses, then you'll love this. Lovable characters, a nice setting, and a satisfying and happy ending.
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This novel was heart-warming and filled with delightful, likeable characters. Set in Dublin in the 1950s, it was peopled with mostly Catholic women - women who had faced adversity of one kind or another.
Mary Kate Ryan was a wonderful character, though to be honest I found her a little to good to be true. She was a woman who having had very little, then inheriting a fortune, decided to 'pay it forward' by assisting others who were alone, or down on their luck. The boarding house was a warm refuge, filled with caring people. People who, though not related by blood were indeed a sort of 'family'. It was the sort of place you would want to live yourself.
If I had one bone to pick about this novel, it is that it is a little too saccharine. If you like your fiction to have a rosy hue shed by rose coloured glasses, then you'll love this. Lovable characters, a nice setting, and a satisfying and happy ending....more
I've been hearing about Angela Marsons frequently via reviews written by my fellow bookbloggers so I thought it was high time I gave her novels a try.I've been hearing about Angela Marsons frequently via reviews written by my fellow bookbloggers so I thought it was high time I gave her novels a try. The author is renown for her psychological crime thrillers and I assumed this was one of those when I requested the novel from NetGalley - solely on the basis of her reputation. Low and behold this is NOT a thriller, but I thoroughly enjoyed it just the same. Perhaps I shouldn't say enjoyed. The subject matter was so dire and disturbing that to say I enjoyed it would make me sound rather sadistic.
This is a well rendered, acutely observed portrayal of the lingering consequences on three sisters of a childhood filled with both physical and emotional abuse. The book begins when the perpetrator of the abuse dies, bringing the three estranged sisters together after many years of little or no contact.
Catherine, the eldest sister, is married to a man she dearly loves and is the mother to twin daughters. She has a time-consuming, high-pressure career. The abuse she and her sisters experienced growing up has marred her psyche indelibly. She never really bonded with her little daughters and is afraid that she doesn't know how to love them. She is riddled with guilt for abandoning her sisters when she left home. Her childhood memories impact every aspect of her life. When her life implodes, she seeks psychiatric therapy.
Alex, the youngest daughter is an alcoholic whose life is spiraling out of control. Her first thought when she heard of her mother's death?
"Thank God the bitch is dead"
Alex believes herself to be unworthy of affection so she sabotaged her relationship with the love of her life. Now she lives alone. She hits 'rock bottom' when her drinking results in the loss of her job and all of her friends. She alienates those she loves with her brazen bitterness.
Beth, the middle daughter, has stayed in the home with the mother right up until the mother's death. Beth never married, or, it would seem, even had any relationships. Her memories are completely repressed. She seems completely in denial as to the trauma inflicted upon her in her childhood. She was the most physically damaged as a result of the abuse, yet she stayed to nurse her mother after her mother's stroke.
The 'mother' in this novel is incredibly evil. One wonders what HER childhood was like. The three sisters are reunited after their mother's death. The reunion sparks change in all of their lives. The book explores the far-reaching damage that can be inflicted by parents upon their children. It is very difficult to read at times, but the realistic ending will leave the reader feeling satisfied.
I guess I'd categorize this book as women's fiction, but it somehow seems more... yet it is not of literary fiction caliber.
I'd like to give the author's crime thrillers a try as well because I enjoyed her writing style....more
It is 1965 and tuberculosis has decimated James’ family – killing his parents and sister – and leaving him weak and sickly. He is sent to convalesce aIt is 1965 and tuberculosis has decimated James’ family – killing his parents and sister – and leaving him weak and sickly. He is sent to convalesce at his Uncle’s house in Dorset. The house is large and seems to hold many secrets. James’ father and his uncle had become estranged, so James had never before met his uncle Thomas. Creepy and eerie goings on in the house capture his childish imagination. He hears crying and music at odd hours.
He befriends Amy, a young maid at the house who tells him of her time in an orphanage. How during the summer holidays James’ uncle would invite some of the orphans to stay at his house. It seems Thomas Bentley is “a pillar of the community” and prone to altruistic endeavors.
Since James is in a weakened state he is more susceptible to the spirits that reside within the property. He gradually comes to meet some of these ‘ghosts’. Children – like him – who are doomed to reside there forevermore. Why? What could have happened to these poor children…?
James takes his book out to the summerhouse to read and get some fresh air. But the summerhouse has secrets of it’s own…
With a delightfully gothic feel this novella speaks to the child reader I once was. This is absolutely the type of book I would have relished as a preteen – which is about the age of James in the story. I’ve always loved stories of children who are alone in the world and are sent to large houses…. I’m thinking “The secret garden” and the like.
This is the first work by Maynard Sims that I have read. A supernatural thriller of only 87 pages, it should appeal to all ages who love traditional ghost stories.
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It is 1965 and tuberculosis has decimated James’ family – killing his parents and sister – and leaving him weak and sickly. He is sent to convalesce at his Uncle’s house in Dorset. The house is large and seems to hold many secrets. James’ father and his uncle had become estranged, so James had never before met his uncle Thomas. Creepy and eerie goings on in the house capture his childish imagination. He hears crying and music at odd hours.
He befriends Amy, a young maid at the house who tells him of her time in an orphanage. How during the summer holidays James’ uncle would invite some of the orphans to stay at his house. It seems Thomas Bentley is “a pillar of the community” and prone to altruistic endeavors.
Since James is in a weakened state he is more susceptible to the spirits that reside within the property. He gradually comes to meet some of these ‘ghosts’. Children – like him – who are doomed to reside there forevermore. Why? What could have happened to these poor children…?
James takes his book out to the summerhouse to read and get some fresh air. But the summerhouse has secrets of it’s own…
With a delightfully gothic feel this novella speaks to the child reader I once was. This is absolutely the type of book I would have relished as a preteen – which is about the age of James in the story. I’ve always loved stories of children who are alone in the world and are sent to large houses…. I’m thinking “The secret garden” and the like.
This is the first work by Maynard Sims that I have read. A supernatural thriller of only 87 pages, it should appeal to all ages who love traditional ghost stories....more
"Under Violent Skies" encompassed all of the attributes I admire in a police procedural. It had a good balance between an interest4.5 stars rounded up
"Under Violent Skies" encompassed all of the attributes I admire in a police procedural. It had a good balance between an interesting crime plot and a personable and relatable protagonist. The setting was one of my favourites and complimented the story.
Neither fast or slow, yet perfectly paced for reading enjoyment. As well as Sara, whom I really became fond of, I also liked a few of the peripheral characters including the elderly farm woman Agnes, and the illegal Serbian woman, Lenka.
In addition to being a murder mystery, the novel spoke to themes of prejudice, illegal aliens, organized crime, people smuggling, and rural policing.
"Under Violent Skies" is the first novel in the DS Sara Hirst crime fiction series. I enjoyed it so much that I now have the next two in the series loaded on my Kindle.
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4.5 stars rounded up
"Under Violent Skies" encompassed all of the attributes I admire in a police procedural. It had a good balance between an interesting crime plot and a personable and relatable protagonist. The setting was one of my favourites and complimented the story.
Neither fast or slow, yet perfectly paced for reading enjoyment. As well as Sara, whom I really became fond of, I also liked a few of the peripheral characters including the elderly farm woman Agnes, and the illegal Serbian woman, Lenka.
In addition to being a murder mystery, the novel spoke to themes of prejudice, illegal aliens, organized crime, people smuggling, and rural policing.
"Under Violent Skies" is the first novel in the DS Sara Hirst crime fiction series. I enjoyed it so much that I now have the next two in the series loaded on my Kindle....more
Anyone looking for a suspenseful, adrenalin-packed thrill ride, need look no further. Though there were a few parts of the book that were overly dramaAnyone looking for a suspenseful, adrenalin-packed thrill ride, need look no further. Though there were a few parts of the book that were overly dramatic, and made me suspend belief, it was a page-turner. Part crime thriller and part romantic suspense, the novel had me gripped under its spell for two days.
The atmosphere and descriptions were very vivid. The characters quite easy to imagine, though at times I grew impatient with Sophy and her daughters, I came to like and understand them more towards the end.
The plot was well planned and executed. It spoke to what measures some people will go in the name of avarice. How difficult it is to trust after it has been lost, and also, to the randomness of fate.
This is my first Laura Elliot novel, and when time permits I will search out more of her work.
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Anyone looking for a suspenseful, adrenalin-packed thrill ride, need look no further. Though there were a few parts of the book that were overly dramatic, and made me suspend belief, it was a page-turner. Part crime thriller and part romantic suspense, the novel had me gripped under its spell for two days.
The atmosphere and descriptions were very vivid. The characters quite easy to imagine, though at times I grew impatient with Sophy and her daughters, I came to like and understand them more towards the end.
The plot was well planned and executed. It spoke to what measures some people will go in the name of avarice. How difficult it is to trust after it has been lost, and also, to the randomness of fate.
This is my first Laura Elliot novel, and when time permits I will search out more of her work....more
When it comes to thrillers, Shari Lapena is hard to beat!
Diana Brewer is a beautiful, seventeen year-old girl who is in her last year of high school. When it comes to thrillers, Shari Lapena is hard to beat!
Diana Brewer is a beautiful, seventeen year-old girl who is in her last year of high school. Smart, and caring, she is well-liked by the entire community. The unthinkable happens... one morning, a local farmer, Ressler, finds her naked body in one of his fields - being scavenged by vultures!
The Vermont town reels with shock. Who could have done this? Well, it turns out there are several suspects. Cameron, the 'jock' boyfriend who was getting too clingy and controlling. The creepy guy who used to hover near Diana's checkout when she worked part-time at Home Depot. The lecherous gym teacher who liked to 'watch' young girls in the school changing room...
The reader hears from several characters throughout the book. Diana's best friends Riley and Evan who are distraught and grieving. Her mother whose life is now forever damaged by her profound loss and is now completely alone in the world. Ellen, the fiance of the gym teacher, who is the daughter of the farmer who found Diana's body. Diana herself, as she tries to come to terms with her own demise...
Just when you think you have it figured out, Lapena throws you a curve ball. This is a story about a small town with shifting allegiances, becoming more and more paranoid as the murder investigation continues. Like the central characters, you wonder if someone who you have come to care for could, in fact, have murdered the lovely Diana.
With several viable suspects, I was enthralled - any one of them would be a believable murderer. However, you'll have to read this excellent thriller if you want to know who did it. With an outstanding plot twist near the end, this is another favourite thriller by Shari Lapena that I will not hesitate to recommend to fans of the genre....more
Having thoroughly enjoyed her last book, “Local Gone Missing“, I was eager to catch up with D.I. Elise King once again. If anything, I enjoyed this onHaving thoroughly enjoyed her last book, “Local Gone Missing“, I was eager to catch up with D.I. Elise King once again. If anything, I enjoyed this one even more.
With themes of online dating, victim blaming, adultery, rape and crimes against women, the overall feel is sometimes bleak. Though, when you are reading a Fiona Barton book, the characters themselves keep you glued to the pages, no matter the subject, however dire. Skilfully drawn, with an astute knowledge of human nature, the author creates an empathy for her characters, even the criminals.
All of the women in this book seemed to be very lonely in one way or another. Kiki and Elise might be friends in another life, but for now Kiki is Elise’s nemesis, interfering in Elise’s criminal investigation.
The story is told via the viewpoints of D.I. Elise King, journalist Kiki Dunn, and grieving mother Annie Curtis. Steadily paced, and written with short chapters, it was easy to keep reading long after you meant to…
The setting of a small seaside town in Sussex brings home the fact that sexual predators can be anywhere, and that the modern problems of larger urban areas are widespread. The town is fearful.
I loved the character of D.I. Elise King and hope that perhaps she’ll return in many subsequent novels. Her next-door neighbour, Ronnie added some levity to the narrative, a busy-body whom you can’t help but like. In fact, all of the characters in this novel were relatable, normal people, with all the foibles that human-nature can sometimes dish out.
The author cleverly links all of the threads of the plot so as to form a cohesive thriller with substance and depth.
As with any good thriller, there was a plot twist which did manage to surprise me. The denouement was thoroughly satisfying, and, truth be told, it also managed to be poignant and chilling at the same time. An immersive crime thriller.
I've read a lot of police procedural novels in my time and I have to say that this one had one of the most intriguing crimes.
Fifty years ago, a sixteeI've read a lot of police procedural novels in my time and I have to say that this one had one of the most intriguing crimes.
Fifty years ago, a sixteen year old girl named Ruth Lyle was murdered in a Chapel in Infracombe, on the North Devon Coast. Now, a sixty-six year old woman named Ruth Lyle has been murdered in the same building (which has now been converted to an Air B&B). Not only that, but she was murdered with the same weapon, possessed the first Ruth's original birth certificate, and their dental records matched!
It is this intriguing and perplexing crime that DI Jan Talantire is tasked with solving.
I immediately liked Jan Talantire. In her late thirties, she has recently been separated from her husband, and is finding her personal life quite lonely. She is an avid runner and a devoted, diligent, and tenacious police officer. Her CID team, who work out of Barnstaple, were also quite personable and interesting and I look forward to hearing more about them in future books. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the team's banter and appreciated their camaraderie during a stressful and baffling investigation. In particular, I liked Primrose Chen, the newest member of the team who is an expert at examining digital evidence.
The obvious ties to the first murder which took place fifty years previously sees Talantire and her team re-examining the cold case. With no DNA testing back then, and sketchy documentation, they are facing a difficult challenge.
All in all, "The Two Deaths of Ruth Lyle" was an engrossing series debut. Nick Louth is a 'new-to-me' author, but now I am interested in reading his previous series featuring DCI Craig Gillard. Also, the second novel in the DI Jan Talantire series is due out later this year and is titled "The Last Ride".
Highly recommended to all fans of the police procedural sub-genre.
My first reaction? Brilliant! I loved it, and can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I was skeptical at first, as this book sounded as though My first reaction? Brilliant! I loved it, and can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I was skeptical at first, as this book sounded as though it had science fiction vibes. I got over my skepticism sharpish. The characters were so well drawn and the police investigation so compelling, that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough!
Detective Chief Superintendent Kat Frank is a forty-five year old widow and the mother of a teenage son. She lost her husband to cancer just a year ago and her grief is still raw. It is her first time back to work after her husband's death and she wants a 'safe' job to reassure her son Cam that he won't lose another parent. Her boss puts her on a pilot project - to head the first ever human-machine police team in the UK. She is to work with an AIDE (Artificially Intelligent Detecting Entity) on some missing person cold cases. Her team will include four people if you include the AIDE)
AIDE Lock - is a wristband around Kat's wrist. However, 'he' can be made to look human via hologram. When he is, he is a tall, slim black man. Think Idris Alba with slight touches of Spock.
Detective Inspector Rayan Hassan - is a smart dresser with a law degree and a high conviction rate. He challenges Kat's authority at times and they lock horns on occasion.
Detective Sergeant Debbie Browne - is a twenty-four year old who has been with the Warwickshire Police for six years. Debbie has little self-esteem and is constantly apologizing. She is single, and has just found out she is pregnant.
Professor Okonedo - a diminutive Asian woman with a chip on her shoulder and a huge grievance against the police. She blames them for her brother's unjust incarceration. Though not official a member of the police, she is AIDE Lock's 'handler'.
Several missing persons cases have been relegated to the 'cold case' files. With Lock's assistance, the team chooses two cases to work on.
Both young men seemed to have vanished from their lives 'in the blink of an eye'.
When the team finds evidence to link the two cases, they realize that this might turn into an active murder or abduction case. Lock's contribution is invaluable. When things turn personal for Kat, she realizes that her 'team' is not yet the cohesive unit she might have wished for...
With themes of medical ethics, abduction, genomics, artificial intelligence, and personal bereavement, this novel was a mesmerizing read. Machine vs. human. How far away from this premise are we really? Not far I think. Machines can make decisions based on facts and algorithms, while humans can make decisions on 'gut instinct'. Sometimes those decisions have to be made 'in the blink of an eye', especially when lives are at stake.
The author has taken some elements of her own life and incorporated them into the book - lending the narrative a ring of authenticity.
I really came to care for all of the characters and I'm eager to learn more about them in the next book.
The ending was satisfying and proved to be an excellent segue into the next book "Leave No Trace". Highly recommended to all fans of well written police procedural fiction....more
They say that when someone loses someone they love, they seek closure. When that person's body is never found, closure is hard to attain.
"...the amounThey say that when someone loses someone they love, they seek closure. When that person's body is never found, closure is hard to attain.
"...the amount of time you spend with a person means nothing. Because no matter how many questions you ask, you'll only ever see the parts of them that they allow you to see. The rest stays buried."
June married Josh ten years ago. After knowing him for only six short months, he drowned while they were on their honeymoon. Josh's body was never recovered... Several times now June has thought she has seen Josh. Her best friend and her new fiance tell her she is seeing things - a product of her grief over her loss.
When searching for venues for her upcoming honeymoon to the new man in her life, Kyle, she comes across a website for a Napa winery. There is a photo of the owner of the vineyard on the website. It is Josh!
She secretly travels to Napa to see for herself. Once there she discovers family secrets and learns information about Josh and his family that she never knew.
In addition to June's narrative we hear from Bev. Bev is Josh's mother and her narrative takes place twenty-five years previously. Their narratives alternate to divulge secrets upon which the two women live their lives.
For wine lovers everywhere, there is a lot of information on wine-making and the appreciation of a fine vintage.
There are two unexplained deaths in this novel, Josh and Michelle, and only one of them is ever explained. To my mind, the oversight of not explaining who killed Michelle was a glaring one. Yes, there was a hint, but that could have been misleading and was not conclusive.
With themes of betrayal, parenting, manipulation, adultery, and suspicion, this novel will appeal to many readers. Especially when they hear that there is a huge plot twist near the end of the book. There are many things I liked about this novel, yet the plot seemed a bit contrived for my full enjoyment. The ending twist seemed implausible given the information revealed up to that point.
"Till Death Do Us Part" was touted as a thriller, but for me it was more of a slow-burn domestic drama with a mysterious backstory....more
If you are looking for a light romance read with a stunning setting – look no further.
Lettie, in her mid-twenties, has recently been made redundant frIf you are looking for a light romance read with a stunning setting – look no further.
Lettie, in her mid-twenties, has recently been made redundant from her job in London’s fashion industry. When she is summoned home to the Island of Jersey, she discovers that her father has been having health problems and is determined to get rid of the farm that he worked on for decades. Lettie, aghast at this news, says that she wants to take over the farm. Her father and her uncle are hesitant because Lettie has no real experience despite growing up on Hollyhock Farm. In addition to the acres of organic produce, the farm has cows, chickens, goats, and alpacas. Quite an undertaking!AI rendering of how I imagined Hollyhock Farm would appear
Oh, and speaking of livestock… there is a young and handsome vet in town. Lettie remembers him as a teen crush, yet he doesn’t seem to remember her at all…
The reader follows Lettie as she strives to prove herself to her father that she can, in fact, hold her own on the farm and keep it ticking over successfully. Meanwhile, she is quite distracted by Brodie, the vet.
As is usual with romance fiction, Lettie and Brodie’s relationship is fraught with many misunderstandings, miscommunication and adversity. Factor in other people who want to date them… oh, and also a stray dog called ‘Thistle’.
“Welcome to Hollyhock Farm” is an enjoyable, escapist read that is sure to be appreciated by fans of romance fiction. It is the first in a prospective series, so more visits to Jersey…...more
The third book in this police procedural series proved just as engaging as the first two. This is a police procedural crime series that is a pleasure The third book in this police procedural series proved just as engaging as the first two. This is a police procedural crime series that is a pleasure to follow.
Once again DS Ashley Knight finds herself heading a crime investigation that proves a real challenge. Hamish MacDonald, a young man, after a night out drinking, wakes up to find himself buried alive in a crude grave. Desperation and adrenaline help him escape. After other men go missing, and with the help of her 'fast track' young constable, Hector Fade, she must discover who is targeting these men who all seem to have some connection to the Vialli Italian crime family. When Hamish is forcefully taken from the hospital, Ashley's case just turned ugly. The patriarch of the Vialli family impedes the investigation once he realizes that his sons and nephews might be involved. Also, this powerful man seems to have someone from the police providing him with classified information. Who is the mole? And how and why are they doing this?
Three books into the series finds Ashley and Hector's friendship maturing. Their banter and jibing adding greatly to my enjoyment of the novel. Now Hector is almost finished his secondment to the team and Ashley wonders what decisions he will make about his future career.
The rest of Ashley's MIT team included DC Barry Hooper (several years younger than Ashley - whom she is sleeping with), DC Emma Stones (mother of three), and the pregnant DS Bhavini Kotecha. Ashley answers to Chief Inspector Vince Kettle. Even the peripheral characters in the book were interesting to get to know, however slightly.
DS Ashley Knight was an intelligent, lonely, and quite damaged protagonist. She has had a lot of 'life lessons' that have caused her to be empathetic to others. She is in her forties and single. In this novel she is looking to advance to Detective Inspector and her assessment is imminent - causing her more stress.
The setting was skillfully described. Norfolk, with all of its autumnal splendor.
The homicide investigation takes up about four months after the last book. In my opinion it would be advantageous to read this series in order to fully realize the development of the characters backstories.
Be warned, there are some distressing topics covered in this book. Gangland murders, torture, and people trafficking to name but three. Furthermore, readers will be delighted that there are some plot twists that keep you guessing. In addition to the present day police investigation, there are some chapters set one month previously that are devoted to the harrowing experiences of illegal immigrants. These chapters made me wonder how they could be linked to the present day criminal investigation.
With a well crafted plot, strong characterization, and a satisfying conclusion, this book should appeal to many fans of the genre. All in all, "Death in Bacton Wood" was a very tense and immersive police procedural and I hope that there are further books in this series. Fingers crossed!
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