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Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Weekend Escape in Books
Sep 20, 2021
This is another book that takes the "locked-room" mystery and develops it so rather than being in a room, the 6 friends are on a small island just off the coast of the north west of the UK accessed only by boat, no phone to the outside world and dodgy weather approaching. What could possibly go wrong?
Things start to go awry from the beginning and gradually get worse. The sense of claustrophobia and of being within touching distance of the mainland when you might as well be on the moon was excellently portrayed.
The characters were well developed - I don't think any of them are particularly likeable or memorable but it works for the story. The pacing is steady and the build up of tension palpable. The reveal was, for me, not much of a surprise as I had already guessed it but getting there was quite good fun.
Although not the most unique story, it was enjoyable nevertheless and my thanks must go to HarperCollinsUK / One More Chapter via NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Things start to go awry from the beginning and gradually get worse. The sense of claustrophobia and of being within touching distance of the mainland when you might as well be on the moon was excellently portrayed.
The characters were well developed - I don't think any of them are particularly likeable or memorable but it works for the story. The pacing is steady and the build up of tension palpable. The reveal was, for me, not much of a surprise as I had already guessed it but getting there was quite good fun.
Although not the most unique story, it was enjoyable nevertheless and my thanks must go to HarperCollinsUK / One More Chapter via NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated Ready Or Not in Books
Sep 26, 2021
This is a deliciously creepy and gripping read made all the better as it's partly set in my neck of the woods!
A serial killer is on the loose murdering people at random and the police have no leads whatsoever. Tom and Alice are happily married with a beautiful baby girl but the cracks begin to show; they are exhausted by a lack of sleep, bruising begins to appear on their baby and Alice starts writing about the serial killer. As Alice becomes more embroiled in her story, it appears the killer has her in his sights.
Written from different perspectives and with timelines from the past which smoothly lead into the present, this is a fast paced and thrilling read where the tension builds and builds right until the end. Each and every character is strong and adds something to the story.
I have read some of Alex Lake's previous books and have enjoyed each and every one of them and I will certainly be looking out for the next.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK / HarperFiction and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
A serial killer is on the loose murdering people at random and the police have no leads whatsoever. Tom and Alice are happily married with a beautiful baby girl but the cracks begin to show; they are exhausted by a lack of sleep, bruising begins to appear on their baby and Alice starts writing about the serial killer. As Alice becomes more embroiled in her story, it appears the killer has her in his sights.
Written from different perspectives and with timelines from the past which smoothly lead into the present, this is a fast paced and thrilling read where the tension builds and builds right until the end. Each and every character is strong and adds something to the story.
I have read some of Alex Lake's previous books and have enjoyed each and every one of them and I will certainly be looking out for the next.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK / HarperFiction and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Silent Suspect (Paige Northwood #3) in Books
Oct 17, 2021
I have read the two previous books in this series and whilst they were good, I wasn't able to be overly enthusiastic. Unfortunately, this is the same.
The story starts well but quickly becomes tedious and I found myself skimming large sections which is never a good sign. The characters are not particularly likeable and I found Paige became increasingly annoying and don't even get me started on the so-called Social Worker who I found to be unprofessional and not like any Social Worker I have ever met.
I couldn't connect with the characters or the story at all, I didn't feel any tension or thrills and the final reveal was disappointing and, for me, predictable. The only saving grace is the insight into the deaf community and the difficulties and barriers they face every day.
This book wasn't for me and I'm really sorry to say that I won't be reading more in this series but plenty of others have enjoyed it so give it a go if it sounds like your type of book.
I would like to thank Avon Books and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
The story starts well but quickly becomes tedious and I found myself skimming large sections which is never a good sign. The characters are not particularly likeable and I found Paige became increasingly annoying and don't even get me started on the so-called Social Worker who I found to be unprofessional and not like any Social Worker I have ever met.
I couldn't connect with the characters or the story at all, I didn't feel any tension or thrills and the final reveal was disappointing and, for me, predictable. The only saving grace is the insight into the deaf community and the difficulties and barriers they face every day.
This book wasn't for me and I'm really sorry to say that I won't be reading more in this series but plenty of others have enjoyed it so give it a go if it sounds like your type of book.
I would like to thank Avon Books and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2478 KP) rated Cheddar Late Than Dead in Books
Apr 20, 2023 (Updated Apr 20, 2023)
There Falls the Groom Down the Stairs
Carly Hale is surprised when Dawn and Klarissa walk into her restaurant. While she knew them in school, she hasn’t seen them since she’s been back in Balsam Dell, Vermont. The chance encounter winds up with Carly catering Klarissa’s wedding shower. But the day of the shower is filled with more tension than Carly expected. Things only get worse when the groom crashes the party. A little while later, Carly finds him at the bottom of the stairs, dead. Who would want to kill him?
This book starts off quickly, introducing us to suspects and conflict before the murder happens, then gives us some great twists that kept me reading. The climax logically resolves things, although I did have a couple of small niggles with the ending. It was great to see the characters again, and I like how their relationships are growing. There are some great new characters, including strong suspects. Meanwhile, the book introduces us to grilled cheese donuts, including a recipe in the back. If you are hungry for a fun cozy, pick this one up.
This book starts off quickly, introducing us to suspects and conflict before the murder happens, then gives us some great twists that kept me reading. The climax logically resolves things, although I did have a couple of small niggles with the ending. It was great to see the characters again, and I like how their relationships are growing. There are some great new characters, including strong suspects. Meanwhile, the book introduces us to grilled cheese donuts, including a recipe in the back. If you are hungry for a fun cozy, pick this one up.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Twenty (Major Crimes, Book 2) in Books
May 7, 2023
A definite 5 star read for me and one of my books of 2023 so far ... an absolute cracker!!
I read a lot of crime and psychological thrillers and the odd horror book and it takes a lot to get me going but Sam Holland most definitely got me going with The Twenty. Oh my word!! Why? I hear you ask.
Excellent and interesting characters ... check.
Excellent serial killer ... check.
Gripping story line ... check.
Fast pace ... check.
Twists and turns ... check.
Gruesome scenes that give you the chills ... check.
Tension and suspense in spades ... check.
What more is there to be said? Oh yes, this might be book 2 but don't let that put you off, it can easily be read as a standalone but I would strongly suggest you read book 1, The Echo Man, it's also a cracker!!
Highly recommended to those of you who enjoy a dark, gritty and grisly crime thriller ... you won't go far wrong with Sam Holland and I must thank HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of the brilliant The Twenty.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
I read a lot of crime and psychological thrillers and the odd horror book and it takes a lot to get me going but Sam Holland most definitely got me going with The Twenty. Oh my word!! Why? I hear you ask.
Excellent and interesting characters ... check.
Excellent serial killer ... check.
Gripping story line ... check.
Fast pace ... check.
Twists and turns ... check.
Gruesome scenes that give you the chills ... check.
Tension and suspense in spades ... check.
What more is there to be said? Oh yes, this might be book 2 but don't let that put you off, it can easily be read as a standalone but I would strongly suggest you read book 1, The Echo Man, it's also a cracker!!
Highly recommended to those of you who enjoy a dark, gritty and grisly crime thriller ... you won't go far wrong with Sam Holland and I must thank HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of the brilliant The Twenty.
I can't wait to see what comes next.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Midwife [Audiobook] in Books
Nov 13, 2022
![The Midwife [Audiobook]](/uploads/profile_image/1c7/e784efba-7442-4a2c-9889-bb55e29951c7.jpg?m=1668349110)
This is the first book I have read/listened to by this author and it will likely not be my last as I quite enjoyed this. I do think it worked really well as an audiobook; would I have thought the same if I had actually read it? I'm not sure as it was quite a slow burn but it was perfect to listen to whilst in the car.
The two main characters, Lauren and Jackie, are really interesting and well developed. It is clear they both have secrets but quite what they are and how they link to each other doesn't become clear until the end.
As I said, this is a slow burn with a growing sense of tension and unease from the beginning and this kept me listening desperate to find out what the twist was going to be and, overall, I wasn't disappointed.
The narrator, Anne-Marie Piazza, did a good job with the narration and she was easy to listen to.
Overall, a satisfying audiobook and many thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for enabling me to listen and share my thoughts of The Midwife.
The two main characters, Lauren and Jackie, are really interesting and well developed. It is clear they both have secrets but quite what they are and how they link to each other doesn't become clear until the end.
As I said, this is a slow burn with a growing sense of tension and unease from the beginning and this kept me listening desperate to find out what the twist was going to be and, overall, I wasn't disappointed.
The narrator, Anne-Marie Piazza, did a good job with the narration and she was easy to listen to.
Overall, a satisfying audiobook and many thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for enabling me to listen and share my thoughts of The Midwife.
Bethr1986 (305 KP) rated Darling Descent (Confessional #1) in Books
Jan 26, 2023
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Kenna is looking for a mentor she can't travel far so is stuck on campus. The dark Dr. Dayton Merino the university psychiatrist, who seems very familiar to Kenna but he's hiding something and she is determined to find out who's hiding behind the mask.
This is the first book in the confessional series. This story is completely captivating and I thoroughly enjoyed the constant suspense and tension between both of the main characters. I was a little shocked by the last confession by Dayton I don't want to give too much away as you will find out when you read it.
This is a very intense storyline with a lot of action, I want to say, but not always physical, mental would possibly be more accurate with them both playing games with each other.
I sincerely enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Kenna is looking for a mentor she can't travel far so is stuck on campus. The dark Dr. Dayton Merino the university psychiatrist, who seems very familiar to Kenna but he's hiding something and she is determined to find out who's hiding behind the mask.
This is the first book in the confessional series. This story is completely captivating and I thoroughly enjoyed the constant suspense and tension between both of the main characters. I was a little shocked by the last confession by Dayton I don't want to give too much away as you will find out when you read it.
This is a very intense storyline with a lot of action, I want to say, but not always physical, mental would possibly be more accurate with them both playing games with each other.
I sincerely enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Road (The Spread #4) in Books
Nov 14, 2021
Well, once again, Iain has excelled with this the fourth in the series of The Spread.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting back into this gripping story and finding out what hazards are set to befall the survivors and who Iain is going to dispatch next and how! It wasn't long before I was hooked.
The Road is absolutely teeming with heart-in-the-mouth moments; the fungus isn't the only enemy as our survivors find out to their cost. The story moves on at pace and is full of tension and numerous scenes of peril that had me holding my breath at times. The characters, both good and bad, are excellent and no one feels like they have been just dropped in to fill the story.
I can't wait for book 5 to see what comes next but I am sure it won't be plain sailing or all sweetness and light but I guess I will just have to wait ... impatiently!!
My thanks must go to Iain for accepting me into his "street team" and for providing me with a copy in return for comments and an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting back into this gripping story and finding out what hazards are set to befall the survivors and who Iain is going to dispatch next and how! It wasn't long before I was hooked.
The Road is absolutely teeming with heart-in-the-mouth moments; the fungus isn't the only enemy as our survivors find out to their cost. The story moves on at pace and is full of tension and numerous scenes of peril that had me holding my breath at times. The characters, both good and bad, are excellent and no one feels like they have been just dropped in to fill the story.
I can't wait for book 5 to see what comes next but I am sure it won't be plain sailing or all sweetness and light but I guess I will just have to wait ... impatiently!!
My thanks must go to Iain for accepting me into his "street team" and for providing me with a copy in return for comments and an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated The Binding Room in Books
Jul 17, 2022
After having read and thoroughly enjoyed the first in this series, The Jigsaw Man, I was itching to get my grubby little eyes on this and I wasn't disappointed.
This can be read as a standalone but you will get more out of this book if you've read The Jigsaw Man but I wouldn't say it was essential.
Once again we are treated to a great story, fantastic characters, twists and tension all told at a great pace. Warning! There are some pretty grim scenes and gruesome descriptions so if that's not your thing, I would probably give this a miss.
This is quite a long book and I can usually lose a bit of interest part way through but not with this; I was totally invested from start to finish and I would happily recommend this to others who enjoy dark police procedurals.
I am looking forward to the next instalment to find out what other twisted thoughts Ms Matheson can come up with to intrigue and shock and I must give thanks to HQ and NetGalley for enabling me to read The Binding Room and to share my thoughts.
This can be read as a standalone but you will get more out of this book if you've read The Jigsaw Man but I wouldn't say it was essential.
Once again we are treated to a great story, fantastic characters, twists and tension all told at a great pace. Warning! There are some pretty grim scenes and gruesome descriptions so if that's not your thing, I would probably give this a miss.
This is quite a long book and I can usually lose a bit of interest part way through but not with this; I was totally invested from start to finish and I would happily recommend this to others who enjoy dark police procedurals.
I am looking forward to the next instalment to find out what other twisted thoughts Ms Matheson can come up with to intrigue and shock and I must give thanks to HQ and NetGalley for enabling me to read The Binding Room and to share my thoughts.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated You Can stay in Books
Sep 11, 2022
This is one of those books that you will either enjoy or not ... I thought it was quite good, not fantastic but not bad either.
There is a nod to Stephen King's Misery to this story, which is acknowledged by the author, as it's got some similar themes and has that creepy and growing sense of tension feel to it.
I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable but they are well developed and although I don't think it mattered too much whether Eilidh was 'nice' or not, I did feel it was important for Connor to have some redeemable qualities alas I didn't think he did and therefore wasn't bothered what befell him which resulted in me not investing as much into the story as I could have.
The pace started off a little slow but grew as things moved on; the ending was quite satisfying if a little quick and although you have to suspend belief as to how Connor came to be in his position in the first place, it's a pretty good read.
Many thanks to Headline, Wildfire and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of You Can Stay.
There is a nod to Stephen King's Misery to this story, which is acknowledged by the author, as it's got some similar themes and has that creepy and growing sense of tension feel to it.
I didn't find any of the characters particularly likeable but they are well developed and although I don't think it mattered too much whether Eilidh was 'nice' or not, I did feel it was important for Connor to have some redeemable qualities alas I didn't think he did and therefore wasn't bothered what befell him which resulted in me not investing as much into the story as I could have.
The pace started off a little slow but grew as things moved on; the ending was quite satisfying if a little quick and although you have to suspend belief as to how Connor came to be in his position in the first place, it's a pretty good read.
Many thanks to Headline, Wildfire and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of You Can Stay.