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Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Witness in Books
Feb 10, 2024
25 of 220
Kindle
Witness
By Caroline Mitchell
⭐️⭐️⭐️
To Rebecca it was a brave decision that led to her freedom from domestic abuse. To Solomon it was the ultimate betrayal.
It’s been ten years since Rebecca’s testimony saw Solomon locked away. Enough time for the nightmares to recede, the nerves to relax; enough time to rebuild her life and put the past behind her.
Then one day a phone rings in her bedroom—but it’s not her phone. Solomon has been in her home, and has a very simple message for her: for each of the ten years he has spent in jail, Rebecca must witness a crime. And, to make matters worse, she has to choose the victims.
Fail to respond and you get hurt. Talk to the police and you die. Ready to play? You have sixty seconds to decide…
As the crimes grow more severe, the victims closer to home, Rebecca is forced to confront a past she had hoped was gone forever.
This was good. Well written and an interesting story that kept you reading. Didn’t get me overly excited but I did enjoy the read. A new author for me. Does contain Domestic abuse and controlling behaviour.
Kindle
Witness
By Caroline Mitchell
⭐️⭐️⭐️
To Rebecca it was a brave decision that led to her freedom from domestic abuse. To Solomon it was the ultimate betrayal.
It’s been ten years since Rebecca’s testimony saw Solomon locked away. Enough time for the nightmares to recede, the nerves to relax; enough time to rebuild her life and put the past behind her.
Then one day a phone rings in her bedroom—but it’s not her phone. Solomon has been in her home, and has a very simple message for her: for each of the ten years he has spent in jail, Rebecca must witness a crime. And, to make matters worse, she has to choose the victims.
Fail to respond and you get hurt. Talk to the police and you die. Ready to play? You have sixty seconds to decide…
As the crimes grow more severe, the victims closer to home, Rebecca is forced to confront a past she had hoped was gone forever.
This was good. Well written and an interesting story that kept you reading. Didn’t get me overly excited but I did enjoy the read. A new author for me. Does contain Domestic abuse and controlling behaviour.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Conclave (Devils Bight 3.5) in Books
Jun 27, 2024
125 of 220
Kindle
Conclave ( Devils Night 3.5)
By Penelope Douglas
⭐️⭐️⭐️
DAMON
Will is gone. He hasn't been seen in months, and the texts coming from his phone are almost certainly forged. Something's wrong. We need to act now.
Michael is ready to tear down The Cove, Rika's hiding something, Evans Crist is a threat, and Winter's father is still out there. Everyone is off in a million directions, and we're vulnerable.
It's time to do this. It's time to claim our place.
RIKA
A few years ago, I never thought I'd be here. On board Pithom. Miles out at sea. At a table with Michael Crist, Kai Mori, and Damon Torrance—men I now consider family.
We've locked ourselves on this yacht for however long it takes to address our agenda, and we won't leave until everything is on the table. Even things I don't want to talk about. Things Michael doesn't know.
We will find Will. We will solidify our plans, and we will remove any threats.
If we survive Conclave.
This was a quick catch-up with the characters also a lead into the next book. It was a quick read and I like it I’m looking forward to the next one.
Kindle
Conclave ( Devils Night 3.5)
By Penelope Douglas
⭐️⭐️⭐️
DAMON
Will is gone. He hasn't been seen in months, and the texts coming from his phone are almost certainly forged. Something's wrong. We need to act now.
Michael is ready to tear down The Cove, Rika's hiding something, Evans Crist is a threat, and Winter's father is still out there. Everyone is off in a million directions, and we're vulnerable.
It's time to do this. It's time to claim our place.
RIKA
A few years ago, I never thought I'd be here. On board Pithom. Miles out at sea. At a table with Michael Crist, Kai Mori, and Damon Torrance—men I now consider family.
We've locked ourselves on this yacht for however long it takes to address our agenda, and we won't leave until everything is on the table. Even things I don't want to talk about. Things Michael doesn't know.
We will find Will. We will solidify our plans, and we will remove any threats.
If we survive Conclave.
This was a quick catch-up with the characters also a lead into the next book. It was a quick read and I like it I’m looking forward to the next one.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated A House of Bells in Books
Jan 9, 2024
7 of 220
Kindle
A House of Bells
By J.T. Croft
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A woman haunted by fate, a child silenced by fear, and a house full of secrets and bells.
1918. Stripped of her reputation and haunted by a spirit she failed to protect, the young governess Grace Meadows finds herself out of time and growing more and more desperate. But when she’s offered a strange job from an eccentric medium, she never could have imagined what she was signing up for.
Tasked with caring for a troubled young girl who has lost the ability to speak, Grace must unravel the dangerous secrets at the heart of a run-down country mansion and find the source of the horrors which now threaten both of their lives.
As she’s forced to confront her own demons and reconcile the ghosts of past and present, can Grace protect the child from the living and dead? And what is waiting for her beyond the mysterious silk and bells which protect them from forces unseen?
This was a haughtily beautiful gothic horror. It was so well written. The characters were endearing and dislikeable when needed. I’m glad to have found this author and looking forward to reading more.
Kindle
A House of Bells
By J.T. Croft
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A woman haunted by fate, a child silenced by fear, and a house full of secrets and bells.
1918. Stripped of her reputation and haunted by a spirit she failed to protect, the young governess Grace Meadows finds herself out of time and growing more and more desperate. But when she’s offered a strange job from an eccentric medium, she never could have imagined what she was signing up for.
Tasked with caring for a troubled young girl who has lost the ability to speak, Grace must unravel the dangerous secrets at the heart of a run-down country mansion and find the source of the horrors which now threaten both of their lives.
As she’s forced to confront her own demons and reconcile the ghosts of past and present, can Grace protect the child from the living and dead? And what is waiting for her beyond the mysterious silk and bells which protect them from forces unseen?
This was a haughtily beautiful gothic horror. It was so well written. The characters were endearing and dislikeable when needed. I’m glad to have found this author and looking forward to reading more.
ClareR (6250 KP) rated Black Thorn in Books
May 22, 2024
I found Black Thorn on my kindle, downloaded last year from NetGalley and forgotten (I’m sorry). So in recompense and quite a lot of guilt, I bought the audiobook. I’m very glad I did. Imogen Church does a great job of reading this rather disturbing story from Agnes Gale’s point of view. She’s the adult daughter of one of the men responsible for the building and sale of the houses in an exclusive development on the Cornish cliffs.
Just weeks after moving in, six people, including children, are dead. All the remaining inhabitants are told to leave their homes as they’re deemed unsafe, and the whole development is cordoned off. Agnes is sure there’s more to it, so she decides to investigate.
There’s a really unnerving atmosphere to this story, probably made more so coming from Agnes’ point of view. She’s autistic, and even though she’s adamant that something isn’t right, she’s largely ignored because of her autism. The insights into Agnes’ personality and her inner thoughts were sensitively handled and realistic, I thought.
All of the characters were really well developed: Errol, Agnes’ friend; Christie her brother; and Trevor her fathers business partner, especially.
This was a thoroughly good listen, and I’m so glad that I (eventually) found it!
Just weeks after moving in, six people, including children, are dead. All the remaining inhabitants are told to leave their homes as they’re deemed unsafe, and the whole development is cordoned off. Agnes is sure there’s more to it, so she decides to investigate.
There’s a really unnerving atmosphere to this story, probably made more so coming from Agnes’ point of view. She’s autistic, and even though she’s adamant that something isn’t right, she’s largely ignored because of her autism. The insights into Agnes’ personality and her inner thoughts were sensitively handled and realistic, I thought.
All of the characters were really well developed: Errol, Agnes’ friend; Christie her brother; and Trevor her fathers business partner, especially.
This was a thoroughly good listen, and I’m so glad that I (eventually) found it!
David McK (3816 KP) rated Decision at Thunder Rift: Book One of The Saga of the Gray Death Legion in Books
Mar 9, 2025
Battletech.
Giant stompy robots, very much - it seems to me - the Western version of Japanese mecha.
A board (miniatures) game that's been around since the 1980s, with a fair few PC games and other associated elements spin-offs.
With said spin-offs including a series of novels which - although aware they existed (in much the same way as do Start Trek or Dr Who novels) I never really read any of them - I think I might have tried one, back in the mid 90s or so, but it was forgettable at best.
So, when I was recently looking for something light to read in between bouts of heavier literature (I hate that word), I thought I would give this one a try, since it is - apparently - #1 in the entire series, and since it was on sale for something silly like 99p on Kindle.
What I got was pretty much what I expected: a sci-fi war story, where the 'mechs are basically the equivalent of futuristic tanks, with a light smattering of intrigue but with the real draw, of course, being on the mech vs mech action.
I might pick up some more in the series, but don't think I'll be going out of my way to do so.
Giant stompy robots, very much - it seems to me - the Western version of Japanese mecha.
A board (miniatures) game that's been around since the 1980s, with a fair few PC games and other associated elements spin-offs.
With said spin-offs including a series of novels which - although aware they existed (in much the same way as do Start Trek or Dr Who novels) I never really read any of them - I think I might have tried one, back in the mid 90s or so, but it was forgettable at best.
So, when I was recently looking for something light to read in between bouts of heavier literature (I hate that word), I thought I would give this one a try, since it is - apparently - #1 in the entire series, and since it was on sale for something silly like 99p on Kindle.
What I got was pretty much what I expected: a sci-fi war story, where the 'mechs are basically the equivalent of futuristic tanks, with a light smattering of intrigue but with the real draw, of course, being on the mech vs mech action.
I might pick up some more in the series, but don't think I'll be going out of my way to do so.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Some Kind of Monster (Friends with Monsters #2) in Books
Nov 7, 2021
183 of 250
Kindle
Some kind of Monster ( Friends with Monsters book2)
By Albany Walker
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Naughty girls need love too.
A beautiful monster, that’s what I am. My packaging is just a little nicer than the creatures you hear about dwelling in your closet.
With three baddies for my mates, things are definitely getting interesting. I think I’ve even convinced them not to kill each other.
But I have a new purpose, someone is hurting our kind. Stealing Charmed magic in arcane rituals that leave my friends drained and dead, and I won’t allow it.
It’s time for them to find out why even the Monsters fear me.
I am the bad guy
I absolutely loved this books! The only reason they are not getting 5 stars is at a few points I Dami got on my nerves. But other than those few moments it was a good story with amped up spice for the second book. Also good spice not the boring sort you just flick through. Highly recommended for those that love supernatural books with some good spicy bits! Plus if you only read it for one thing then read it for Grim!!!
Kindle
Some kind of Monster ( Friends with Monsters book2)
By Albany Walker
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Naughty girls need love too.
A beautiful monster, that’s what I am. My packaging is just a little nicer than the creatures you hear about dwelling in your closet.
With three baddies for my mates, things are definitely getting interesting. I think I’ve even convinced them not to kill each other.
But I have a new purpose, someone is hurting our kind. Stealing Charmed magic in arcane rituals that leave my friends drained and dead, and I won’t allow it.
It’s time for them to find out why even the Monsters fear me.
I am the bad guy
I absolutely loved this books! The only reason they are not getting 5 stars is at a few points I Dami got on my nerves. But other than those few moments it was a good story with amped up spice for the second book. Also good spice not the boring sort you just flick through. Highly recommended for those that love supernatural books with some good spicy bits! Plus if you only read it for one thing then read it for Grim!!!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Creeping Shadow ( The Rise of Isaac 1) in Books
Mar 29, 2023
38 of 235
Kindle
Creeping Shadow ( The Rise of Isaac 1)
By Caroline Peckham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A man waits in Vale, a world void of humanity. A mother vanishes, her disappearance concealed by the police. A girl collapses, black magic invading her blood. And a boy linked to them all must fight to save his family. Earth is just one of seven worlds. Gateways divide the realms and those who pass through must earn keys, participating in challenges that will separate the fearful from the brave, the weak from the strong, and the witless from the cunning. Sixteen year old Oliver Knight knows nothing of the other worlds or his family's dark past. But when his adopted sister succumbs to a deadly curse the truth is revealed and he is plunged into an unknown land in a desperate bid to save her. However, a sinister enemy is on the rise and the danger they face at every turn throws those around them under suspicion. In order to survive, Oliver must figure out who to trust, who to believe and, ultimately, who to fear...
This was an easy quick enjoyable read. It was different and I really enjoyed it the characters and story were really good.
Kindle
Creeping Shadow ( The Rise of Isaac 1)
By Caroline Peckham
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A man waits in Vale, a world void of humanity. A mother vanishes, her disappearance concealed by the police. A girl collapses, black magic invading her blood. And a boy linked to them all must fight to save his family. Earth is just one of seven worlds. Gateways divide the realms and those who pass through must earn keys, participating in challenges that will separate the fearful from the brave, the weak from the strong, and the witless from the cunning. Sixteen year old Oliver Knight knows nothing of the other worlds or his family's dark past. But when his adopted sister succumbs to a deadly curse the truth is revealed and he is plunged into an unknown land in a desperate bid to save her. However, a sinister enemy is on the rise and the danger they face at every turn throws those around them under suspicion. In order to survive, Oliver must figure out who to trust, who to believe and, ultimately, who to fear...
This was an easy quick enjoyable read. It was different and I really enjoyed it the characters and story were really good.
Merissa (14046 KP) rated The Ballad of Aramei (The Darkwoods Trilogy #3) in Books
Mar 31, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
Exhausting; Exhilarating; Shocking; Satisfying; Breathtaking; Epic - just some of the words I would use to describe this book and the series as a whole.
In this book you sort of get two stories overlapping, one concluding and then one starting - both of which will pull you in and keep you reading. I loved how this book rounded things off and tied them all together. There are still twists and turns aplenty so you will definitely not be bored. And one thing that I will say about the ending is that are little "mini" epilogues for the main characters which somehow just seem to fit better than one big one.
I won't write about the storyline as that has already been covered by others. What I will say is that the whole series is one of the best that I have read in a long time - 3 books in 3 days! This series is definitely a keeper and although I have read the Kindle versions, I will be buying the "real" books too! There is a new series coming out this year called The Darksouls Trilogy which I'm hoping will have a couple of familiar faces in there somewhere.
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!
* Verified Purchase ~ April 2013 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 14, 2016
In this book you sort of get two stories overlapping, one concluding and then one starting - both of which will pull you in and keep you reading. I loved how this book rounded things off and tied them all together. There are still twists and turns aplenty so you will definitely not be bored. And one thing that I will say about the ending is that are little "mini" epilogues for the main characters which somehow just seem to fit better than one big one.
I won't write about the storyline as that has already been covered by others. What I will say is that the whole series is one of the best that I have read in a long time - 3 books in 3 days! This series is definitely a keeper and although I have read the Kindle versions, I will be buying the "real" books too! There is a new series coming out this year called The Darksouls Trilogy which I'm hoping will have a couple of familiar faces in there somewhere.
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!
* Verified Purchase ~ April 2013 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 14, 2016
Merissa (14046 KP) rated Eleanor (The Books of the Five #1) in Books
Apr 4, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
This is quite a difficult review for me to write because if I look at the whole book, I really enjoyed it and couldn't put it down but there were aspects which have been mentioned by other reviewers that I was slightly uncomfortable with. I understand that they are now living in a more 'physical' world but I still wasn't sure about Eleanor being beaten the way she was. Mind you, at times, I wanted to hit her myself as she made yet another assumption that she shouldn't have.
Saying that, the story drew me in and I loved how it progressed. The Elements are not yet a cohesive unit and they have a long way to go. However, I am hoping that given the ending, they will have the time and opportunity to progress and become a force to be reckoned with. The concept behind this book is amazing and I really enjoyed it.
I will definitely be reading book 2 as soon as it is available and will be looking forward to re-entering the world of Mydren. Recommended for all fantasy fans.
I bought this book as part of the Kindle Daily Deal on 14th February 2014.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 14, 2016
Saying that, the story drew me in and I loved how it progressed. The Elements are not yet a cohesive unit and they have a long way to go. However, I am hoping that given the ending, they will have the time and opportunity to progress and become a force to be reckoned with. The concept behind this book is amazing and I really enjoyed it.
I will definitely be reading book 2 as soon as it is available and will be looking forward to re-entering the world of Mydren. Recommended for all fantasy fans.
I bought this book as part of the Kindle Daily Deal on 14th February 2014.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 14, 2016
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Splits in Books
Apr 22, 2023
47 of 235
Kindle
The Splits
By M.V Clark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Imagine an eerie, parallel London living through a mysterious pandemic…
Two sisters escape a traumatic childhood to build perfect lives. Then one day Anna’s husband starts losing his mind. And Claire’s son becomes so volatile she’s frightened to be around him.
A terrifying disease known as ‘the splits’ lingers on the streets of the city. The science is definitive – the splits is quick, gruesome and fatal. There can be no link to what ails the men in Anna and Claire's families.
Except that nothing about this disease is what it seems. Evidence is emerging of a slow-burn variety, which infects its victims so stealthily it is invisible until the terrible end-stage.
A maverick researcher is touting a risky experimental cure. Anna rejects this as a dangerous fantasy.
But for Claire, it is her only chance to save her disintegrating boy.
What happens next changes the sisters' lives forever, as they fight themselves and each other for one last shot at happiness.
This was totally different to your average zombie infection read. I really enjoyed it. The characters and their lives were so interesting and it was definitely a different take on what makes a “zombie”. Very clever writing.
Kindle
The Splits
By M.V Clark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Imagine an eerie, parallel London living through a mysterious pandemic…
Two sisters escape a traumatic childhood to build perfect lives. Then one day Anna’s husband starts losing his mind. And Claire’s son becomes so volatile she’s frightened to be around him.
A terrifying disease known as ‘the splits’ lingers on the streets of the city. The science is definitive – the splits is quick, gruesome and fatal. There can be no link to what ails the men in Anna and Claire's families.
Except that nothing about this disease is what it seems. Evidence is emerging of a slow-burn variety, which infects its victims so stealthily it is invisible until the terrible end-stage.
A maverick researcher is touting a risky experimental cure. Anna rejects this as a dangerous fantasy.
But for Claire, it is her only chance to save her disintegrating boy.
What happens next changes the sisters' lives forever, as they fight themselves and each other for one last shot at happiness.
This was totally different to your average zombie infection read. I really enjoyed it. The characters and their lives were so interesting and it was definitely a different take on what makes a “zombie”. Very clever writing.