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Recommend this book:
The Price of Revenge
She can't run far enough...
Rita M Boehm
2024 Finalist
354 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
The Price of Revenge is a gripping psychological thriller by Rita M. Boehm. The town's middle-aged police chief, Frank Peters, showed interest in Cathy, who had lost both her parents and the young man she was in love with. After Frank handed Cathy an envelope with the words Pine View Travel Agency printed all over it, she was left wondering how in the world she ended up traveling to Las Vegas with him. When she woke up in a hotel room, naked, alone, and bewildered, a Nevada marriage license was on display next to a picture of Cathy and Frank taken in a wedding chapel. Cathy faked her death and framed Frank for her murder after realizing that he was a killer and that she was next on his list.
Rita M. Boehm's The Price of Revenge was an exciting, bizarre, and terrifying roller coaster journey. The story was full of suspense, brutality, mystery, and resolve. I was hooked from the first page until the very last, and there was never a dull moment. I never knew what would happen next, and I was guessing until the end. The characters' histories were gradually exposed by their backstories, which made them likable. Cathy took all the necessary measures to avoid Frank, even at times having to run for her life. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat as I constantly wondered when Frank would appear again. The story was well-written and had a strong message. I was taken aback by the ending and did not see it coming.
The Price of Revenge is a gripping psychological thriller by Rita M. Boehm. The town's middle-aged police chief, Frank Peters, showed interest in Cathy, who had lost both her parents and the young man she was in love with. After Frank handed Cathy an envelope with the words Pine View Travel Agency printed all over it, she was left wondering how in the world she ended up traveling to Las Vegas with him. When she woke up in a hotel room, naked, alone, and bewildered, a Nevada marriage license was on display next to a picture of Cathy and Frank taken in a wedding chapel. Cathy faked her death and framed Frank for her murder after realizing that he was a killer and that she was next on his list.
Rita M. Boehm's The Price of Revenge was an exciting, bizarre, and terrifying roller coaster journey. The story was full of suspense, brutality, mystery, and resolve. I was hooked from the first page until the very last, and there was never a dull moment. I never knew what would happen next, and I was guessing until the end. The characters' histories were gradually exposed by their backstories, which made them likable. Cathy took all the necessary measures to avoid Frank, even at times having to run for her life. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat as I constantly wondered when Frank would appear again. The story was well-written and had a strong message. I was taken aback by the ending and did not see it coming.
Recommend this book:
All Our Yesterdays
A Tale of Cunning & Grit
Forest Bowman
2024 Honorable Mention
277 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Laura R. Brush for Readers' Favorite
In Forest Bowman’s All Our Yesterdays, in the year 1896, young Adam Richter, just fourteen years of age, found himself in a bleak existence on a barren farm. There, the tender orphan suffered under the cruel hands of two brothers, whose hearts knew nothing of mercy. The boy broke free from the chains of his suffering and he returned to the town of his birth. With hope as his guiding light, Adam embraced an apprenticeship at a local furniture mill, and he dedicated himself to the art of furniture making. His humble beginnings blossomed into ownership of the very mill that had been his sanctuary. In time, he stood as a pillar of the community, a testament to the indomitable will of the human spirit.
Forest Bowman’s All Our Yesterdays: A Tale of Cunning & Grit explains how the journey of life is not merely about outshining those who wrong us since sometimes the scales of justice tilt in favor of a more dramatic balance. The author describes in elegant and haunting prose the specters of the past and their influences on the future. His descriptive examples of the main character explain in emotional detail the endurance of relentless torment by two brothers whose shadows are ever-present in his new world. Bowman does an outstanding job of illuminating the misdeeds cloaked by the might of a father's influence. The story converges in an unforgivable wrath-provoking episode. The convincing narrative leaves the reader in utter disbelief at the unimaginable horrors unfolding. All Our Yesterdays is a must-read for anyone looking for an example of justice like no other.
In Forest Bowman’s All Our Yesterdays, in the year 1896, young Adam Richter, just fourteen years of age, found himself in a bleak existence on a barren farm. There, the tender orphan suffered under the cruel hands of two brothers, whose hearts knew nothing of mercy. The boy broke free from the chains of his suffering and he returned to the town of his birth. With hope as his guiding light, Adam embraced an apprenticeship at a local furniture mill, and he dedicated himself to the art of furniture making. His humble beginnings blossomed into ownership of the very mill that had been his sanctuary. In time, he stood as a pillar of the community, a testament to the indomitable will of the human spirit.
Forest Bowman’s All Our Yesterdays: A Tale of Cunning & Grit explains how the journey of life is not merely about outshining those who wrong us since sometimes the scales of justice tilt in favor of a more dramatic balance. The author describes in elegant and haunting prose the specters of the past and their influences on the future. His descriptive examples of the main character explain in emotional detail the endurance of relentless torment by two brothers whose shadows are ever-present in his new world. Bowman does an outstanding job of illuminating the misdeeds cloaked by the might of a father's influence. The story converges in an unforgivable wrath-provoking episode. The convincing narrative leaves the reader in utter disbelief at the unimaginable horrors unfolding. All Our Yesterdays is a must-read for anyone looking for an example of justice like no other.
Recommend this book:
The Girls in the Cabin
Caleb Stephens
2024 Bronze Medal
310 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Girls in the Cabin by Caleb Stephens is a nail-biting psychological thriller. Chris lost his wife six months previously, and his daughters won’t talk to him. In a last-ditch attempt to fix things, he arranges a camping trip in the mountains. But things are not right. Kayla is still angry with him over something he did before her mom died, and Emma goes off into the woods. When they find her, she has a broken leg, and they need to seek shelter from the storm heading their way. A woman in a cabin offers them sanctuary and helps strap Emma’s leg, but things are not what they seem, and neither is she. With the roads blocked off and the phones down, Chris and his family are in trouble. Will they get through this night, and if they do, will their experience bind the family once more?
The Girls in the Cabin by Caleb Stephens is one of those books that will grip you right from the start. Some of the descriptions are not pretty, but that’s the nature of the story. It is hard-hitting and heartbreaking all at the same time, and you’ll feel so many emotions as you read it. The characters are amazing and well-developed, and you’ll find them likable and easy to relate to. It’s a dark tale with a twisty plot, and it switches seamlessly between the present and the past in a series of flashbacks, and you won’t see the twist at the end coming. This is a great psychological drama with horror wending its way throughout. If you loved Misery by Stephen King, you’ll love this book.
The Girls in the Cabin by Caleb Stephens is a nail-biting psychological thriller. Chris lost his wife six months previously, and his daughters won’t talk to him. In a last-ditch attempt to fix things, he arranges a camping trip in the mountains. But things are not right. Kayla is still angry with him over something he did before her mom died, and Emma goes off into the woods. When they find her, she has a broken leg, and they need to seek shelter from the storm heading their way. A woman in a cabin offers them sanctuary and helps strap Emma’s leg, but things are not what they seem, and neither is she. With the roads blocked off and the phones down, Chris and his family are in trouble. Will they get through this night, and if they do, will their experience bind the family once more?
The Girls in the Cabin by Caleb Stephens is one of those books that will grip you right from the start. Some of the descriptions are not pretty, but that’s the nature of the story. It is hard-hitting and heartbreaking all at the same time, and you’ll feel so many emotions as you read it. The characters are amazing and well-developed, and you’ll find them likable and easy to relate to. It’s a dark tale with a twisty plot, and it switches seamlessly between the present and the past in a series of flashbacks, and you won’t see the twist at the end coming. This is a great psychological drama with horror wending its way throughout. If you loved Misery by Stephen King, you’ll love this book.
Recommend this book:
A Woman's Guide to Search & Rescue
Mary Carroll Moore
2024 Silver Medal
358 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Though she is no longer flying because of occasional blackouts, Kate Fisher is a pilot, just like her father. Currently, she is working with search and rescue and is helping investigate a plane crash in Adirondack Park. What she doesn't know is that the plane was carrying Red Nelson, her half-sister. Red had hoped that Billy had forgone revenge, but she was very wrong; he had set her up, and now she was on the run. In a sudden twist of events, Red ends up contacting Molly instead of Kate, as initially planned. Molly is a huge fan of hers and is willing to help her. Will Kate be willing to help her, considering Hellen's bitterness when John left her to be with Red's mom? Will Billy get to her and get his revenge? To find out how things unfold between Red and her new-found family, get a copy of A Woman's Guide to Search and Rescue by Mary Carroll Moore.
A Woman's Guide to Search and Rescue by Mary Carroll Moore is wonderfully written, with twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The magnificently woven plotline flows flawlessly, leaving no room for confusion for the reader. While reading, I also appreciated the need to read more literature about the LGBTQ community, which helps with tolerance and healthy interactions in society. Mary also utilized suspense to great effect, and I loved the prowess in narration and the well-developed characters that added to the overall appeal of the book. For those who love a book with strong female characters, this one will not disappoint. I look forward to reading something else by this author.
Though she is no longer flying because of occasional blackouts, Kate Fisher is a pilot, just like her father. Currently, she is working with search and rescue and is helping investigate a plane crash in Adirondack Park. What she doesn't know is that the plane was carrying Red Nelson, her half-sister. Red had hoped that Billy had forgone revenge, but she was very wrong; he had set her up, and now she was on the run. In a sudden twist of events, Red ends up contacting Molly instead of Kate, as initially planned. Molly is a huge fan of hers and is willing to help her. Will Kate be willing to help her, considering Hellen's bitterness when John left her to be with Red's mom? Will Billy get to her and get his revenge? To find out how things unfold between Red and her new-found family, get a copy of A Woman's Guide to Search and Rescue by Mary Carroll Moore.
A Woman's Guide to Search and Rescue by Mary Carroll Moore is wonderfully written, with twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The magnificently woven plotline flows flawlessly, leaving no room for confusion for the reader. While reading, I also appreciated the need to read more literature about the LGBTQ community, which helps with tolerance and healthy interactions in society. Mary also utilized suspense to great effect, and I loved the prowess in narration and the well-developed characters that added to the overall appeal of the book. For those who love a book with strong female characters, this one will not disappoint. I look forward to reading something else by this author.
Recommend this book:
Somebody Knows
Pamela Ungashick
2024 Gold Medal
388 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Somebody Knows is a work of fiction in the thriller, psychological drama, and suspense subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of strong language throughout and its themes of abuse. Penned by author Pamela Ungashick, the novel portrays Audrey Mae Scott's tumultuous life under the tyrannical rule of her mother, Edith, who harbors dark intentions. Audrey endures abuse and isolation but finds solace in writing about her struggles, determined to defy her mother's expectations and pursue her dreams. Meanwhile, Edith's resentment festers, leading her to concoct a sinister plan for revenge and wealth, involving sacrificing her daughter. As Audrey's defiance grows, she becomes entangled in a dangerous game with her increasingly unstable mother, risking everything for her independence.
Author Pamela Ungashick utilizes strong narrative confidence to craft a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics. Ungashick's vivid storytelling perfectly captures the oppressive atmosphere of Audrey's household, immersing readers in her harrowing journey toward freedom. The detail in the descriptions of people and places also enhances this unsettling feeling, perfectly matching the emotions of the scene. The characters are well-crafted with realistic-sounding dialogue and strong descriptions, each grappling with their demons and motivations, particularly Audrey and Edith, whose tumultuous relationship drives the narrative forward with intensity, suspense, and some dynamic dialogue exchanges. As Audrey confronts her mother's escalating madness, the stakes are raised to a heart-pounding climax that leaves a lasting impact that is surprising and satisfying. Overall, Somebody Knows is a compelling tale of survival and redemption that will resonate with readers long after the final page, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of authentically penned psychological dramas.
Somebody Knows is a work of fiction in the thriller, psychological drama, and suspense subgenres. It is best suited to mature readers owing to the presence of strong language throughout and its themes of abuse. Penned by author Pamela Ungashick, the novel portrays Audrey Mae Scott's tumultuous life under the tyrannical rule of her mother, Edith, who harbors dark intentions. Audrey endures abuse and isolation but finds solace in writing about her struggles, determined to defy her mother's expectations and pursue her dreams. Meanwhile, Edith's resentment festers, leading her to concoct a sinister plan for revenge and wealth, involving sacrificing her daughter. As Audrey's defiance grows, she becomes entangled in a dangerous game with her increasingly unstable mother, risking everything for her independence.
Author Pamela Ungashick utilizes strong narrative confidence to craft a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics. Ungashick's vivid storytelling perfectly captures the oppressive atmosphere of Audrey's household, immersing readers in her harrowing journey toward freedom. The detail in the descriptions of people and places also enhances this unsettling feeling, perfectly matching the emotions of the scene. The characters are well-crafted with realistic-sounding dialogue and strong descriptions, each grappling with their demons and motivations, particularly Audrey and Edith, whose tumultuous relationship drives the narrative forward with intensity, suspense, and some dynamic dialogue exchanges. As Audrey confronts her mother's escalating madness, the stakes are raised to a heart-pounding climax that leaves a lasting impact that is surprising and satisfying. Overall, Somebody Knows is a compelling tale of survival and redemption that will resonate with readers long after the final page, and I would not hesitate to recommend it to fans of authentically penned psychological dramas.
Recommend this book:
Little Loose Ends
A Psychological Thriller
Bonnie Traymore
2023 Finalist
261 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
I’m not sure whether Little Loose Ends by Bonnie Traymore should more correctly be called Large Loose Ends. I had not read the first book in the series, but there was enough of a back story to explain how the saga continues with one of the characters terrifying both Victoria, the main protagonist, and her new acquaintance Jenna. There is a huge problem in dealing with the threat of violence when no actual crime has yet taken place, and it becomes a “he said/she said” situation. It is difficult to persuade the police to take you seriously, even though you are living in constant fear. It’s a scenario that might apply to any one of us and the tension, uncertainty, and fear can last - and destroy lives. Not only were the young women affected by this predator, but their friends and family as well. Woven into the narrative, Victoria sees her marriage disintegrate as she battles with her desire for revenge, setting up her new art gallery, and spending time with her young daughter and her suspicious husband.
Little Loose Ends by Bonnie Traymore is a great read. The story speeds along, taking the reader with it. I identified with the characters and cared about them, which is always a sign of a good book. I admired the way the author kept my attention from the first page, not by wild car chases and multiple murders but by the strong sense of threat looming over the two women who have been terrorized. At first, I wondered if they were overreacting, but as the story moved along, I appreciated the fear and anxiety that they were experiencing. Backed up by a supportive cast of close family and friendly police personnel, Victoria perseveres in her quest for justice, but then there is a surprising twist that I never saw coming. Highly recommended and well worth five stars.
I’m not sure whether Little Loose Ends by Bonnie Traymore should more correctly be called Large Loose Ends. I had not read the first book in the series, but there was enough of a back story to explain how the saga continues with one of the characters terrifying both Victoria, the main protagonist, and her new acquaintance Jenna. There is a huge problem in dealing with the threat of violence when no actual crime has yet taken place, and it becomes a “he said/she said” situation. It is difficult to persuade the police to take you seriously, even though you are living in constant fear. It’s a scenario that might apply to any one of us and the tension, uncertainty, and fear can last - and destroy lives. Not only were the young women affected by this predator, but their friends and family as well. Woven into the narrative, Victoria sees her marriage disintegrate as she battles with her desire for revenge, setting up her new art gallery, and spending time with her young daughter and her suspicious husband.
Little Loose Ends by Bonnie Traymore is a great read. The story speeds along, taking the reader with it. I identified with the characters and cared about them, which is always a sign of a good book. I admired the way the author kept my attention from the first page, not by wild car chases and multiple murders but by the strong sense of threat looming over the two women who have been terrorized. At first, I wondered if they were overreacting, but as the story moved along, I appreciated the fear and anxiety that they were experiencing. Backed up by a supportive cast of close family and friendly police personnel, Victoria perseveres in her quest for justice, but then there is a surprising twist that I never saw coming. Highly recommended and well worth five stars.
Recommend this book:
AfterStrike
A Thriller, Featuring Agent Dallas
L.J. Sellers
2023 Honorable Mention
276 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
AfterStrike by L.J. Sellers takes us inside the musty, low-rent office of a counselor and her patient, Remi Bartell, who is plagued by a haunting inability to remember her past. After exhausting all conventional methods of regaining her memory, she is referred to a neuropsychologist in Portland. As she makes her exodus from the office disappointed, Remi is suddenly abducted by the patriarch of a dangerous crime family that propels the plot into a whirlwind of chaos and danger. From that moment, readers are taken on a turbulent ride as Remi's memories resurface, revealing shocking secrets and opening doors to her enigmatic past. As she grapples with the fragments of her memory, readers experience Remi's emotional roller coaster, empathizing with her search for normalcy and the deep connection she forms with the dog Tuck. The possibility of romance also adds a layer of complexity to Remi's character, further immersing readers in her tumultuous world.
L.J. Sellers showcases remarkable storytelling skills in AfterStrike, creating a gripping narrative filled with suspense and heart-pounding moments. One of the standout elements of Sellers' writing is the strategic use of flashbacks and time jumps. These narrative devices propel the story forward at a breakneck pace, leaving readers yearning for more. Every turn of the page is accompanied by nail-biting tension and unexpected revelations, making AfterStrike a true page-turner. L.J. Sellers’ attention to detail and well-crafted plot twists make for a captivating reading experience. From the electrifying opening to the climactic finale, this book keeps readers enthralled and guessing until the end. If you enjoy thrillers that blend mystery, psychological tension, and skillful narrative techniques, AfterStrike is a must-read.
AfterStrike by L.J. Sellers takes us inside the musty, low-rent office of a counselor and her patient, Remi Bartell, who is plagued by a haunting inability to remember her past. After exhausting all conventional methods of regaining her memory, she is referred to a neuropsychologist in Portland. As she makes her exodus from the office disappointed, Remi is suddenly abducted by the patriarch of a dangerous crime family that propels the plot into a whirlwind of chaos and danger. From that moment, readers are taken on a turbulent ride as Remi's memories resurface, revealing shocking secrets and opening doors to her enigmatic past. As she grapples with the fragments of her memory, readers experience Remi's emotional roller coaster, empathizing with her search for normalcy and the deep connection she forms with the dog Tuck. The possibility of romance also adds a layer of complexity to Remi's character, further immersing readers in her tumultuous world.
L.J. Sellers showcases remarkable storytelling skills in AfterStrike, creating a gripping narrative filled with suspense and heart-pounding moments. One of the standout elements of Sellers' writing is the strategic use of flashbacks and time jumps. These narrative devices propel the story forward at a breakneck pace, leaving readers yearning for more. Every turn of the page is accompanied by nail-biting tension and unexpected revelations, making AfterStrike a true page-turner. L.J. Sellers’ attention to detail and well-crafted plot twists make for a captivating reading experience. From the electrifying opening to the climactic finale, this book keeps readers enthralled and guessing until the end. If you enjoy thrillers that blend mystery, psychological tension, and skillful narrative techniques, AfterStrike is a must-read.
Recommend this book:
Breaking Sin
Addicted to Sin Book 1
Emily Stormbrook
2023 Bronze Medal
289 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
An unexpected financial calamity strikes Ivy Sinclair with a double blow when she learns that she's been fired and simultaneously receives notice that her apartment lease has been canceled. In a reversal of fate, Ivy suddenly gets a job offer without an interview, on a remote island at an exclusive hotel that includes living quarters. As strange as the offer is, Ivy is desperate and this could be the turning point in her life that has thus far eluded her. Her only regret as she packs to leave is the loss of an unrequited love affair with Miles, itself a fascinating story within the story. Her hopes are dashed when the job offer turns out to be abduction, throwing Ivy into a world of torture, physical and mental servitude, and hardcore non-consensual sex. Read her harrowing tale in Breaking Sin by Emily Stormbrook.
Verisimilitude, that all-important sense of reality that every story needs is abundant in Breaking Sin. Realism in a tortuous, sex-filled, and violent story is a tough line to walk for any writer, but Emily Stormbrook tackles the subject perfectly with the use of colloquial terms to describe sex acts that far exceed the "normal" BDSM scene. Though the story of Ivy is full of gut-wrenching, fascinating depravity at the hands of her abductor, the underlying love story between Ivy and Miles, his supportive father, and conniving, hateful mother remains the primary theme that carries through to a rather abrupt conclusion. Fortunately, the cliffhanger at the end is immediately resolved as book two, Mastering Sin, has already been published. Stormbrook has a clear winner with this series and her readership, across all her books, will surely grow in leaps and bounds.
An unexpected financial calamity strikes Ivy Sinclair with a double blow when she learns that she's been fired and simultaneously receives notice that her apartment lease has been canceled. In a reversal of fate, Ivy suddenly gets a job offer without an interview, on a remote island at an exclusive hotel that includes living quarters. As strange as the offer is, Ivy is desperate and this could be the turning point in her life that has thus far eluded her. Her only regret as she packs to leave is the loss of an unrequited love affair with Miles, itself a fascinating story within the story. Her hopes are dashed when the job offer turns out to be abduction, throwing Ivy into a world of torture, physical and mental servitude, and hardcore non-consensual sex. Read her harrowing tale in Breaking Sin by Emily Stormbrook.
Verisimilitude, that all-important sense of reality that every story needs is abundant in Breaking Sin. Realism in a tortuous, sex-filled, and violent story is a tough line to walk for any writer, but Emily Stormbrook tackles the subject perfectly with the use of colloquial terms to describe sex acts that far exceed the "normal" BDSM scene. Though the story of Ivy is full of gut-wrenching, fascinating depravity at the hands of her abductor, the underlying love story between Ivy and Miles, his supportive father, and conniving, hateful mother remains the primary theme that carries through to a rather abrupt conclusion. Fortunately, the cliffhanger at the end is immediately resolved as book two, Mastering Sin, has already been published. Stormbrook has a clear winner with this series and her readership, across all her books, will surely grow in leaps and bounds.
Recommend this book:
Altered
Rob Kaufman
2023 Silver Medal
286 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Altered by Rob Kaufman is a meticulously written story that expertly navigates the depths of the human psyche, skillfully manipulating our emotions in this psychological suspense thriller. With great detail, Kaufman paints a dark and gripping tale that transports us directly into the late Friday evening world of Justin Wright's office. As most people wind down for the weekend, Justin encounters his newest client, Frank, plunging him into the depths of a challenging case. Plagued by multiple personalities, Frank is desperate to transition into a semblance of normalcy, and Justin takes on the formidable task of guiding him. Little does he know this case will unleash a chain of events, shattering his world and family.
Rob Kaufman jolts us with yet another delectable twist when we think we have unraveled the enigma. Altered pulls readers into a breathtaking roller coaster ride, evoking many emotions with every page turned. The author’s craftsmanship shines through as he masterfully weaves a narrative oscillating between mind-bending and pulse-pounding. In Altered, Kaufman propels the psychological thriller genre to uncharted heights, effortlessly plunging us into a world where reality blurs, leaving us to question every uncertainty and possibility. This enthralling book will have you utterly spellbound, unable to tear your eyes away from each page. What sets Altered apart is Kaufman's integration of his clinical psychology expertise, which adds a layer of authenticity and brilliance. Every shocking revelation seamlessly transitions into the next, leaving us craving more.
Altered by Rob Kaufman is a meticulously written story that expertly navigates the depths of the human psyche, skillfully manipulating our emotions in this psychological suspense thriller. With great detail, Kaufman paints a dark and gripping tale that transports us directly into the late Friday evening world of Justin Wright's office. As most people wind down for the weekend, Justin encounters his newest client, Frank, plunging him into the depths of a challenging case. Plagued by multiple personalities, Frank is desperate to transition into a semblance of normalcy, and Justin takes on the formidable task of guiding him. Little does he know this case will unleash a chain of events, shattering his world and family.
Rob Kaufman jolts us with yet another delectable twist when we think we have unraveled the enigma. Altered pulls readers into a breathtaking roller coaster ride, evoking many emotions with every page turned. The author’s craftsmanship shines through as he masterfully weaves a narrative oscillating between mind-bending and pulse-pounding. In Altered, Kaufman propels the psychological thriller genre to uncharted heights, effortlessly plunging us into a world where reality blurs, leaving us to question every uncertainty and possibility. This enthralling book will have you utterly spellbound, unable to tear your eyes away from each page. What sets Altered apart is Kaufman's integration of his clinical psychology expertise, which adds a layer of authenticity and brilliance. Every shocking revelation seamlessly transitions into the next, leaving us craving more.
Recommend this book:
The Whole Truth
D.F. Kennedy
2023 Gold Medal
284 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Viga Boland for Readers' Favorite
Although the adage “history repeats itself” isn’t usually applied to fiction novels rooted even loosely in fact, it most definitely applies to the characters and plot of DF Kennedy’s The Whole Truth. This novel is the sequel to Kennedy’s previous book, The Truth, in which rich heiress Dahlia Frost published her memoir of abuse at the hands of her stepfather. In the course of promoting the said book, she was reunited with the love of her life, famous actor Roland Hughes, but because of well-intentioned lies on both sides, their path to lasting love was fraught with obstacles.
In The Whole Truth, DF Kennedy takes us more deeply into both their backgrounds, exploring why and how these lies, and now even more lies, could further damage their pending marriage. They are expecting a baby, but is that baby theirs? Dahlia’s mentally unstable former husband, Daniel, is out to convince Roland it isn’t. Making Daniel’s plan even easier to execute is the fact that Dahlia’s abusive stepfather winds up dead, and in Dahlia’s memoir, investigators find the most likely motive for his murder. Dahlia is arrested, much like her mother was many years prior and for similar reasons. Will Roland and Dahlia ever share the loving life they both deserve? Perhaps, but only if and when The Whole Truth is revealed.
DF Kennedy is excellent at crafting complicated plots, creating realistic characters to whom readers easily relate, while forever keeping us in mounting suspense. The Whole Truth is a clever blend of psychological thriller and touching romance. Kennedy is skilled at letting characters reveal themselves through dialogue and reflection, and never slows down the pace of the action through too much description. If you love novels that keep you guessing right until the closing sentences, you’ll enjoy Dahlia and Roland’s story which will be continued in the third book in this series: Nothing But the Truth. Perhaps in that one, we will finally discover the identity of the elusive “forevermrshughes” and the significance of the mysterious black dahlias, both of which have ominously appeared throughout the first two novels and portend an exciting conclusion to the series.
Although the adage “history repeats itself” isn’t usually applied to fiction novels rooted even loosely in fact, it most definitely applies to the characters and plot of DF Kennedy’s The Whole Truth. This novel is the sequel to Kennedy’s previous book, The Truth, in which rich heiress Dahlia Frost published her memoir of abuse at the hands of her stepfather. In the course of promoting the said book, she was reunited with the love of her life, famous actor Roland Hughes, but because of well-intentioned lies on both sides, their path to lasting love was fraught with obstacles.
In The Whole Truth, DF Kennedy takes us more deeply into both their backgrounds, exploring why and how these lies, and now even more lies, could further damage their pending marriage. They are expecting a baby, but is that baby theirs? Dahlia’s mentally unstable former husband, Daniel, is out to convince Roland it isn’t. Making Daniel’s plan even easier to execute is the fact that Dahlia’s abusive stepfather winds up dead, and in Dahlia’s memoir, investigators find the most likely motive for his murder. Dahlia is arrested, much like her mother was many years prior and for similar reasons. Will Roland and Dahlia ever share the loving life they both deserve? Perhaps, but only if and when The Whole Truth is revealed.
DF Kennedy is excellent at crafting complicated plots, creating realistic characters to whom readers easily relate, while forever keeping us in mounting suspense. The Whole Truth is a clever blend of psychological thriller and touching romance. Kennedy is skilled at letting characters reveal themselves through dialogue and reflection, and never slows down the pace of the action through too much description. If you love novels that keep you guessing right until the closing sentences, you’ll enjoy Dahlia and Roland’s story which will be continued in the third book in this series: Nothing But the Truth. Perhaps in that one, we will finally discover the identity of the elusive “forevermrshughes” and the significance of the mysterious black dahlias, both of which have ominously appeared throughout the first two novels and portend an exciting conclusion to the series.
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