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Hazel (2934 KP) rated Child Behind The Wall in Books
Sep 19, 2020
Hard-hitting and gripping
Never having read anything by this author before let alone any of the others in this series, I took a punt based on the blurb and I certainly wasn't disappointed and I was absolutely hooked from page 1.
On his website, Mr Parker describes "My style of writing is hard-hitting, fast-paced, violent and carry moral messages that you might have to dig a bit deeper for. I try not to use more words than is necessary although more than a few of them are of the swearing variety. Hey! People swear. And they swear a ******* lot in my world. I will unashamedly tackle issues where some writers fear to tread." I would say this is a pretty accurate reflection - this book is not for the feint-hearted; it contains bad language and graphic scenes which leave nothing to the imagination so be warned!
This is a fast-paced, action packed read from the first to the last page with twists and turns and shocks along the way. The characters are an interesting and eclectic bunch with the 2 main protagonists of Paterson and Clocks being, what I would describe, an acquired taste - Mr Parker advises that they are based loosely on characters he has known throughout his 20 year career in the Police ... all I can say is that if I knew Clocks in particular, I would have probably disliked him intensely on first impression however, I can see a very loyal friend who would do anything for you plus there is definitely a troubled softie in there. Having said that, I still found him annoying!
The main plot is hard-hitting and totally gripping - there is some humour interspersed throughout which did provide some much needed lighter moments. The sub-plots are intriguing and an interesting insight into the politics within the various echelons within the Police; these, I assume, are linked to previous cases covered in earlier books in the series. Like I said, I haven't read any of the others but didn't find this too confusing but I do think I was missing the backstory somewhat which probably impacted on my overall enjoyment of the story as a whole but this is my fault rather than the fault of the author.
This is a no-holds-barred, gritty thriller that I would recommend to any who enjoy the harsher stories dealing with horrific crimes but, as I have said, it does contain gruesome details of crimes against children so if this isn't your preference, then I wouldn't go there but you will be missing out on a really excellent book.
Many thanks go to Joffe Books via NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
On his website, Mr Parker describes "My style of writing is hard-hitting, fast-paced, violent and carry moral messages that you might have to dig a bit deeper for. I try not to use more words than is necessary although more than a few of them are of the swearing variety. Hey! People swear. And they swear a ******* lot in my world. I will unashamedly tackle issues where some writers fear to tread." I would say this is a pretty accurate reflection - this book is not for the feint-hearted; it contains bad language and graphic scenes which leave nothing to the imagination so be warned!
This is a fast-paced, action packed read from the first to the last page with twists and turns and shocks along the way. The characters are an interesting and eclectic bunch with the 2 main protagonists of Paterson and Clocks being, what I would describe, an acquired taste - Mr Parker advises that they are based loosely on characters he has known throughout his 20 year career in the Police ... all I can say is that if I knew Clocks in particular, I would have probably disliked him intensely on first impression however, I can see a very loyal friend who would do anything for you plus there is definitely a troubled softie in there. Having said that, I still found him annoying!
The main plot is hard-hitting and totally gripping - there is some humour interspersed throughout which did provide some much needed lighter moments. The sub-plots are intriguing and an interesting insight into the politics within the various echelons within the Police; these, I assume, are linked to previous cases covered in earlier books in the series. Like I said, I haven't read any of the others but didn't find this too confusing but I do think I was missing the backstory somewhat which probably impacted on my overall enjoyment of the story as a whole but this is my fault rather than the fault of the author.
This is a no-holds-barred, gritty thriller that I would recommend to any who enjoy the harsher stories dealing with horrific crimes but, as I have said, it does contain gruesome details of crimes against children so if this isn't your preference, then I wouldn't go there but you will be missing out on a really excellent book.
Many thanks go to Joffe Books via NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated The Trespasser: Dublin Murder Squad in Books
Dec 11, 2017
Good, realistic but fairly anti-climactic
Tana French's look into the Dublin police force is gritty and rather depressing, filled with backbiting and even sabotage. It is gripping in the beginning, seeing a murder investigation almost in real time. The downfall of this book, ironically, is its length, having revealed most of the plot three-quarters of the way through the novel.
The plot of The Trespasser centres on a murder investigation viewed as a straightforward domestic with the murderer being the victim’s boyfriend, but Antoinette and Steve discover something far more sinister. The obvious suspect is subjected to interrogation in a most unorthodox and questionable manner with harsh treatment and language that is likely to be unconvincing to readers – and hopefully is far-fetched. Narrative is largely via Antoinette, and her language and dialogue are irritatingly intrusive throughout the book.
In addition to background support a third detective is added to the team who attempts to force an early arrest of the prime suspect, but Antoinette and Steve are looking elsewhere. The plot becomes hugely complex as corruption is exposed and doubts creep in that the murderer may be closer than the murder victim’s boyfriend. With that being said, the to-ing and fro-ing between three suspects becomes tedious and the big reveal as a result, is rather anti-climactic. Interesting read nevertheless.
The plot of The Trespasser centres on a murder investigation viewed as a straightforward domestic with the murderer being the victim’s boyfriend, but Antoinette and Steve discover something far more sinister. The obvious suspect is subjected to interrogation in a most unorthodox and questionable manner with harsh treatment and language that is likely to be unconvincing to readers – and hopefully is far-fetched. Narrative is largely via Antoinette, and her language and dialogue are irritatingly intrusive throughout the book.
In addition to background support a third detective is added to the team who attempts to force an early arrest of the prime suspect, but Antoinette and Steve are looking elsewhere. The plot becomes hugely complex as corruption is exposed and doubts creep in that the murderer may be closer than the murder victim’s boyfriend. With that being said, the to-ing and fro-ing between three suspects becomes tedious and the big reveal as a result, is rather anti-climactic. Interesting read nevertheless.
Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders in Books
Jan 3, 2018
Gripping, detailed and intense
The infamous Manson family murders have been heard around the world for decades, so when you thought everything that can be said, had been said, this book comes along. Granted it was written on the 25th anniversary of the murders, so many of characters have since diminished, but it gives an intriguing insight into the mind of the killers, by the prosecutor who convicted them. I have yet to read this level of detail into the case.
Vincent Bugliosi is methodical in his descriptions leading up to the end of the trial, relaying information as if solving a puzzle. And in many ways the Manson riddle is truly a mystery. Why would such a crime receive so much notoriety when mass murders have claimed far greater lives? Bugliosi discusses his own argument in the case in great detail, the fact that Manson had only to influence others around him to carry out the act that he himself did not commit. Does this make him equally culpable? In Bugliosi's mind - absolutely.
At the end, we hear his own assertions, Manson's links to other cult phenomena such as Satanism, Latter Day Saints, and even Scientology, in which Manson was said to be greatly influenced by. Riveting read for those who don't want the sensationalism and just the straight facts.
Vincent Bugliosi is methodical in his descriptions leading up to the end of the trial, relaying information as if solving a puzzle. And in many ways the Manson riddle is truly a mystery. Why would such a crime receive so much notoriety when mass murders have claimed far greater lives? Bugliosi discusses his own argument in the case in great detail, the fact that Manson had only to influence others around him to carry out the act that he himself did not commit. Does this make him equally culpable? In Bugliosi's mind - absolutely.
At the end, we hear his own assertions, Manson's links to other cult phenomena such as Satanism, Latter Day Saints, and even Scientology, in which Manson was said to be greatly influenced by. Riveting read for those who don't want the sensationalism and just the straight facts.
Rachel (48 KP) rated What Alice Forgot in Books
May 27, 2017
Surprisingly Surprising!
Usually if I see the word's 'romance' 'love' or 'moving' on a book I immediately think "Nope!" and find something else.
I got this book after reading 'A Husband's Secret', which is fantastic, and wanted to read more of Liane Moriarty's novels.
I'm so glad that I did as I enjoyed this story just as much as her latest work.
Yes - this novel does have romance in it and isn't as tense or fast paced as her latest work but it does have a lot of other things in common with it. Really fleshed out character's that act in a believable way, a whiff of mystery, the main narrative accompanied by a few other character's voices and the power to make you try to imagine just how you might cope with the problems that are experienced within the story.
If, like me, you are allergic to so called 'chick lit' then please don't be put off from reading any of Liane Moriarty's work. They really are thought provoking, gripping tales and I look forward to discovering more of her work. Perhaps I won't be so hasty to put a book down if any of those dreaded words are on the cover next time, I could well be missing out on a gem of a book
I got this book after reading 'A Husband's Secret', which is fantastic, and wanted to read more of Liane Moriarty's novels.
I'm so glad that I did as I enjoyed this story just as much as her latest work.
Yes - this novel does have romance in it and isn't as tense or fast paced as her latest work but it does have a lot of other things in common with it. Really fleshed out character's that act in a believable way, a whiff of mystery, the main narrative accompanied by a few other character's voices and the power to make you try to imagine just how you might cope with the problems that are experienced within the story.
If, like me, you are allergic to so called 'chick lit' then please don't be put off from reading any of Liane Moriarty's work. They really are thought provoking, gripping tales and I look forward to discovering more of her work. Perhaps I won't be so hasty to put a book down if any of those dreaded words are on the cover next time, I could well be missing out on a gem of a book
Verner Latskin (74 KP) rated Mr. Robot - Season 1 in TV
Jul 21, 2017
The Writing (6 more)
The Cinematography
The Direction
The Performances
Best Dream Sequence that David Lynch didn't create
The Music
Best plot twist since Fight Club (the one that isnt inspired by Fight Club)
Brilliant, breathtaking, addictive.
I love this show. I only watched it on a lark, expecting to make fun of it - a hacker drama on USA called "Mr. Robot"? This is gonna be hilarious, I thought. I was so incredibly wrong. By the end of the pilot, I was hooked harder than any show since Twin Peaks had hooked me.
It's maybe the most cinematic TV series ever made, more so than a lot of movies. The mysteries it creates are gripping and compelling, inviting intense theorizing and speculation. It pulls off the best twist I've ever seen on television, and does it by blinding you with one that is telegraphed and inspired by another famous plot twist. Rami Malik goes from that guy you've seen in a bunch of stuff to legend status in one scene. In fact, the entire cast is nothing short of amazing. It makes the audience into a part of the show like no show ever has. It's already one of my favorite series ever made. It's brilliant.
It's maybe the most cinematic TV series ever made, more so than a lot of movies. The mysteries it creates are gripping and compelling, inviting intense theorizing and speculation. It pulls off the best twist I've ever seen on television, and does it by blinding you with one that is telegraphed and inspired by another famous plot twist. Rami Malik goes from that guy you've seen in a bunch of stuff to legend status in one scene. In fact, the entire cast is nothing short of amazing. It makes the audience into a part of the show like no show ever has. It's already one of my favorite series ever made. It's brilliant.
LucyB (47 KP) rated Dark Matter in Books
Jul 23, 2017
Mind-bending, fast-pasted, gripping to the end
Every so often, I come across an author who is so different, it blows me away. Blake Crouch is definitely one of those authors! The storyline is so completely 'way out' that I'm amazed he pulled it off, and his style of writing (short to the point of sparse) shouldn't work, but really does!
The story is about Martin, the man who has the perfect life, the perfect wife, a lovely son...but fifteen years ago, gave up his illustrious science career to have a family. Suddenly, he's kidnapped, drugged, and (wait for it), forced into an alternate reality. I can't say anymore without spoiling the plot, but what follows is a frenetic race through alternative realities to get back to the life he once knew, at any cost.
The storyline is impressive, not least because the concept is so complex, yet Crouch handles it with ease. I'd say that this is the author's greatest gift - being able to simplify and abbreviate, without dumbing down. In fact, this book is probably the best example of 'all killer, no filler' that I've ever read.
A formidable book... I'll be looking forward to reading the Wayward Pines series next!
The story is about Martin, the man who has the perfect life, the perfect wife, a lovely son...but fifteen years ago, gave up his illustrious science career to have a family. Suddenly, he's kidnapped, drugged, and (wait for it), forced into an alternate reality. I can't say anymore without spoiling the plot, but what follows is a frenetic race through alternative realities to get back to the life he once knew, at any cost.
The storyline is impressive, not least because the concept is so complex, yet Crouch handles it with ease. I'd say that this is the author's greatest gift - being able to simplify and abbreviate, without dumbing down. In fact, this book is probably the best example of 'all killer, no filler' that I've ever read.
A formidable book... I'll be looking forward to reading the Wayward Pines series next!
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Land of the Living in Books
Feb 15, 2019
With a gripping start that fully captured my attention, I had a hard time putting LAND OF THE LIVING down. The suspense-filled atmosphere leapt off the pages and I found myself catching my breath and actually feeling the pressure presented within the covers. This doesn't usually happen to me, especially from a book I know is fiction. The author (or authors really) have done a fabulous job bringing the book to life and I imagine the plot does a fairly accurate job conveying a true life account of something like this. I only have a few minor quibbles. Firstly, Abbie does some dumb things, however it's still believable that she might react that way in her situation, and really, she's not a brainless twit of a victim. Although what she does later was very stupid and I wanted to smack her. Still, after the fact, I suppose I understand it now. Secondly, and I guess lastly, I do not believe for a second that the police are so inept that they could not follow-up on simple, routine leads. If Abbie can do it, surely they can too. To sum it up, the terror was evident, the environment creepy, and the overall pace was just right. A thrilling good read, if not a perfect one.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated Remember Me (Where There's Love #1) in Books
Mar 15, 2019
Can we ever forget someone we love?
She does not remember who he is.
And yet, her heart recognizes him.
By all means, Jena leads an average, ordinary life.
Working as a waitress, she shares an apartment with Abby, her best friend from college, dreams of being a columnist and spends many waking hours arguing with her brother.
Until one day, when a stranger walks into the restaurant looking for her.
Seemingly desperate to talk to her, he always disappears before Jena can find out who he is and what he wants. However, their paths cross again and again, and soon, Jena feels certain that she once knew the man who is desperately trying to remind her of something she seems to have forgotten.
Their love.
Bree Wolf has done it once again. This is an absolutely gripping novel. This story is full of twists and turns; filled with a bit of mystery and suspense. I absolutely love the way the author brings the characters to life in the pages. I was absolutely gripped and love how it was all brought together at the end. I will not risk saying more as I don't want to spoil it for anyone.
Highly recommend reading this.
I received this copy for free but this is my honest voluntary review.
She does not remember who he is.
And yet, her heart recognizes him.
By all means, Jena leads an average, ordinary life.
Working as a waitress, she shares an apartment with Abby, her best friend from college, dreams of being a columnist and spends many waking hours arguing with her brother.
Until one day, when a stranger walks into the restaurant looking for her.
Seemingly desperate to talk to her, he always disappears before Jena can find out who he is and what he wants. However, their paths cross again and again, and soon, Jena feels certain that she once knew the man who is desperately trying to remind her of something she seems to have forgotten.
Their love.
Bree Wolf has done it once again. This is an absolutely gripping novel. This story is full of twists and turns; filled with a bit of mystery and suspense. I absolutely love the way the author brings the characters to life in the pages. I was absolutely gripped and love how it was all brought together at the end. I will not risk saying more as I don't want to spoil it for anyone.
Highly recommend reading this.
I received this copy for free but this is my honest voluntary review.
Billie Wichkan (118 KP) rated The Secretary in Books
Mar 15, 2019
Day after day, year after year, Christine has been there, invisiblewatching, listening, absorbing all the secrets floating around her. Keeping them safe.
Christine is trusted. But those years of loyalty and discretion come with a high price. And eventually Christina will pay.
Yet, it would be a mistake to underestimate such a steadfast woman. Because as everyone is about to discover, theres a dangerous line between obedience and obsession...
"The Secretary" is Renee Knight's second novel. This story has an explosive plot and a very surprising twist at the end.
This story revolves and explores the relationship between the employer and the employee. The author has done a fabulous job of exploring the loyalty of an employee to her employer. The story is completely gripping and I was glued to it.
The characters are completely and utterly convincing and I developed a love/hate relationship with them.
The underlying tension is apparent from the start and it just adds to the suspense going forward.
Some may call this a slow burn but I felt the pace of the story is just perfect. This is an intelligent, twisted, psychological thriller.
Very believable characters and brilliant plot! Perfect story in my opinion.
Highly Recommend!
My thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review.
Christine is trusted. But those years of loyalty and discretion come with a high price. And eventually Christina will pay.
Yet, it would be a mistake to underestimate such a steadfast woman. Because as everyone is about to discover, theres a dangerous line between obedience and obsession...
"The Secretary" is Renee Knight's second novel. This story has an explosive plot and a very surprising twist at the end.
This story revolves and explores the relationship between the employer and the employee. The author has done a fabulous job of exploring the loyalty of an employee to her employer. The story is completely gripping and I was glued to it.
The characters are completely and utterly convincing and I developed a love/hate relationship with them.
The underlying tension is apparent from the start and it just adds to the suspense going forward.
Some may call this a slow burn but I felt the pace of the story is just perfect. This is an intelligent, twisted, psychological thriller.
Very believable characters and brilliant plot! Perfect story in my opinion.
Highly Recommend!
My thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Random House UK for a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review.
Sam (74 KP) rated The Keeper Of Lost Things in Books
Mar 27, 2019
So to begin with I struggled with this one. Even though it only had 300 pages, it seemed to be taking a while for anything to happen with the plot. But I’m glad I didn’t give in. It did take until around page 150 for me to get into it, but after that point it was brilliant.
Laura is a brilliant protagonist. She’s got all of her own problems and is then left with the complicated mystery of Anthony’s life. But she never dwells on the past too much. She moves on from everything that has happened and lives in the moment.
I loved Sunshine. She’s such an enthusiastic character and she seemed to be the only one who could see the truth in everything that was going off. Sunshine had Down’s Syndrome and she saw a friend in Laura. She made the perfect friend and was such a lovely person with some of the best ideas. It was so refreshing to find a character like her.
I would happily just read a book of all the short stories that came with every lost item. I found most of them gripping, and quite a lot of them dealt with quite serious subjects. They were like little windows into people’s lives and I found them really compelling.
The Keeper of Lost Things is a brilliant little book and worth picking up.
Laura is a brilliant protagonist. She’s got all of her own problems and is then left with the complicated mystery of Anthony’s life. But she never dwells on the past too much. She moves on from everything that has happened and lives in the moment.
I loved Sunshine. She’s such an enthusiastic character and she seemed to be the only one who could see the truth in everything that was going off. Sunshine had Down’s Syndrome and she saw a friend in Laura. She made the perfect friend and was such a lovely person with some of the best ideas. It was so refreshing to find a character like her.
I would happily just read a book of all the short stories that came with every lost item. I found most of them gripping, and quite a lot of them dealt with quite serious subjects. They were like little windows into people’s lives and I found them really compelling.
The Keeper of Lost Things is a brilliant little book and worth picking up.