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Recommend this book:
The Client
A Domestic Psychological Thriller
Kat Goss
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
In The Client by Kat Goss, Natalie Kemp earned a good income for three years while working as an editor for Alan Peckin. However, Natalie suddenly stopped hearing from Alan entirely, without any explanation or new assignments. Natalie quickly began questioning her abilities, feeling that perhaps she had not performed well enough. Since Alan's projects constituted the bulk of her income, losing this caused her and her husband, David, to almost lose everything. As a freelancer, Natalie sought other job prospects, only to discover that none of the work she had completed for Alan had ever been published, leaving her without an official portfolio. One day, she received an email from Alan’s wife stating that he was missing and that she and her private investigator wanted to meet with Natalie. Despite David's objections, Natalie agreed to the meeting and soon found herself entangled in a situation that could jeopardize both her career and her marriage.
The Client by Kat Goss has all the elements of an exceptional psychological thriller. The story began with such a calm, almost serene tone that it was easy to overlook the tension simmering beneath the surface. As the story unfolded, that tension steadily built, making it harder and harder to put the book down. The characters were vivid and convincingly realistic. Most of the plot centered around Natalie and David, with Amanda and a private investigator joining in later. Despite the small cast, the story never felt lacking—in fact, it was gripping from start to finish. The writing was superb; I found myself flying through the pages. The ending was mind-blowing. I had imagined plenty of possibilities surrounding Allan’s disappearance, but nothing prepared me for the twist that came. It was a perfect, shocking conclusion that left a lasting impression.
In The Client by Kat Goss, Natalie Kemp earned a good income for three years while working as an editor for Alan Peckin. However, Natalie suddenly stopped hearing from Alan entirely, without any explanation or new assignments. Natalie quickly began questioning her abilities, feeling that perhaps she had not performed well enough. Since Alan's projects constituted the bulk of her income, losing this caused her and her husband, David, to almost lose everything. As a freelancer, Natalie sought other job prospects, only to discover that none of the work she had completed for Alan had ever been published, leaving her without an official portfolio. One day, she received an email from Alan’s wife stating that he was missing and that she and her private investigator wanted to meet with Natalie. Despite David's objections, Natalie agreed to the meeting and soon found herself entangled in a situation that could jeopardize both her career and her marriage.
The Client by Kat Goss has all the elements of an exceptional psychological thriller. The story began with such a calm, almost serene tone that it was easy to overlook the tension simmering beneath the surface. As the story unfolded, that tension steadily built, making it harder and harder to put the book down. The characters were vivid and convincingly realistic. Most of the plot centered around Natalie and David, with Amanda and a private investigator joining in later. Despite the small cast, the story never felt lacking—in fact, it was gripping from start to finish. The writing was superb; I found myself flying through the pages. The ending was mind-blowing. I had imagined plenty of possibilities surrounding Allan’s disappearance, but nothing prepared me for the twist that came. It was a perfect, shocking conclusion that left a lasting impression.
Recommend this book:
Almost Perfect
Deandre Kralevic
2025 Bronze Medal
491 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Almost Perfect by Deandre Kralevic is a chilling psychological thriller that explores the dark, twisted world of Marcus Saint-Claude, a therapist whose charm and intellect mask his sinister double life. This gripping tale explores the themes of manipulation, obsession, and the thin line between healing and destruction. The novel opens with Marcus in what appears to be a normal, albeit slightly unorthodox, counseling session. However, he is far from an ordinary therapist. Through his calculated actions and thoughts, Marcus reveals his predatory nature, making him a fascinating yet deeply disturbing protagonist. His interactions with patients and meticulous diligence in extracurricular “hobbies” create a duality that keeps readers on edge throughout the story.
Deandre Kralevic's writing is masterful in creating tension and intrigue. The narrative oscillates between the clinical detachment of Marcus’s professional life and the unnerving intimacy of his private endeavors. The psychological depth immerses the reader in Marcus’s world, making his dark thoughts and actions disturbingly tangible. Kralevic’s ability to maintain a consistent level of tension while also exploring Marcus’s psyche is masterfully done. The plot twists are shocking and inevitable, and the narrative is unpredictable. Almost Perfect studies the human mind’s darker recesses and the masks people wear to hide their true selves. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, control, and the complexities of human relationships. Kralevic warns readers who may be sensitive to specific content that can be disturbing. Almost Perfect is a haunting and compelling story that leaves readers questioning the nature of perfection and the price of pursuing it.
Almost Perfect by Deandre Kralevic is a chilling psychological thriller that explores the dark, twisted world of Marcus Saint-Claude, a therapist whose charm and intellect mask his sinister double life. This gripping tale explores the themes of manipulation, obsession, and the thin line between healing and destruction. The novel opens with Marcus in what appears to be a normal, albeit slightly unorthodox, counseling session. However, he is far from an ordinary therapist. Through his calculated actions and thoughts, Marcus reveals his predatory nature, making him a fascinating yet deeply disturbing protagonist. His interactions with patients and meticulous diligence in extracurricular “hobbies” create a duality that keeps readers on edge throughout the story.
Deandre Kralevic's writing is masterful in creating tension and intrigue. The narrative oscillates between the clinical detachment of Marcus’s professional life and the unnerving intimacy of his private endeavors. The psychological depth immerses the reader in Marcus’s world, making his dark thoughts and actions disturbingly tangible. Kralevic’s ability to maintain a consistent level of tension while also exploring Marcus’s psyche is masterfully done. The plot twists are shocking and inevitable, and the narrative is unpredictable. Almost Perfect studies the human mind’s darker recesses and the masks people wear to hide their true selves. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, control, and the complexities of human relationships. Kralevic warns readers who may be sensitive to specific content that can be disturbing. Almost Perfect is a haunting and compelling story that leaves readers questioning the nature of perfection and the price of pursuing it.
Recommend this book:
False Faces
Edge of Fear Series — Book 1
Rob Kaufman
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Daniel Wright's best-selling novel, inspired by his difficult early years, has made him a global sensation. Despite his fame, the author refuses to leave his house for any reason. His current project has stalled due to a lack of motivation, but Daniel doesn't see it as a problem. That is, until he receives flowers and a mysterious note from an admirer claiming they have the best way to motivate him. At first, Daniel ignores the unusual messages. When the messages turn threatening, the reclusive writer suspects this admirer may have dangerous intentions. In Rob Kaufman's False Faces, Daniel must conquer his fear if he wants to live long enough to keep doing the one thing that brings him joy.
Rob Kaufman accurately captures Daniel's agoraphobia, emphasizing his constant checking of the stairs and the wave of emotions that overwhelm him whenever he approaches the front door. Readers familiar with the phobia will recognize the blend of subtle cynicism and hostility Daniel directs toward anyone offering to take him out of his home. A prime example of this is the near-intervention his father attempts, leading to a compelling face-off. The prologue provides readers with insight into the minor details of his early years that contributed to his current situation, offering a thorough origin story and context for some of his later irrational actions. Kauffman adds a subtle, humorous tone to the narrative through Daniel's unique names for the members of his creative writing group. A descriptive narrative style combined with strategically placed clues creates vivid scenes, immersing readers in Daniel's chaotic process of suspect elimination. Attention to detail and creative storytelling put False Faces into a class of its own.
Daniel Wright's best-selling novel, inspired by his difficult early years, has made him a global sensation. Despite his fame, the author refuses to leave his house for any reason. His current project has stalled due to a lack of motivation, but Daniel doesn't see it as a problem. That is, until he receives flowers and a mysterious note from an admirer claiming they have the best way to motivate him. At first, Daniel ignores the unusual messages. When the messages turn threatening, the reclusive writer suspects this admirer may have dangerous intentions. In Rob Kaufman's False Faces, Daniel must conquer his fear if he wants to live long enough to keep doing the one thing that brings him joy.
Rob Kaufman accurately captures Daniel's agoraphobia, emphasizing his constant checking of the stairs and the wave of emotions that overwhelm him whenever he approaches the front door. Readers familiar with the phobia will recognize the blend of subtle cynicism and hostility Daniel directs toward anyone offering to take him out of his home. A prime example of this is the near-intervention his father attempts, leading to a compelling face-off. The prologue provides readers with insight into the minor details of his early years that contributed to his current situation, offering a thorough origin story and context for some of his later irrational actions. Kauffman adds a subtle, humorous tone to the narrative through Daniel's unique names for the members of his creative writing group. A descriptive narrative style combined with strategically placed clues creates vivid scenes, immersing readers in Daniel's chaotic process of suspect elimination. Attention to detail and creative storytelling put False Faces into a class of its own.
Recommend this book:
Fire and Tears
Jessica Lewandowski
2025 Gold Medal
543 Pages
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Fiction - Thriller - Psychological
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
In Fire and Tears by Jessica Lewandowski, Jade’s life has been stolen time and again, first by her stepfather, who sells her to the highest bidder, and then by Ivan, a ruthless man who refuses to let her go. Escaping from his grip, she flees across a snowy mountainside, but her past is never far behind. With a mysterious ally searching for her and demons that won’t stay buried, Jade must decide whether to keep running or stand and fight. A harrowing psychological thriller, Fire and Tears is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and the ultimate battle for freedom. Lewandowski writes with confidence and conviction in this very dark subject area so that her audience will take every moment seriously. This results in a haunting and powerful thriller where Jade’s fight for survival will stay with you long after the last page and make you think about the real-life issues surrounding trafficking and violence against women.
I felt connected to Jade thanks to the close, personal style of narration and the way Jessica Lewandowski lets us into her innermost feelings. The author crafts an unflinching and gripping story of courage in the face of unimaginable darkness, where we’re with our heroine every step of the way. The world and character development around Jade is visceral and real at every turn, making those raw, intense, and deeply emotional moments resonate just like they would if they were playing out live in front of you. This, when combined with the jagged sense of pacing, makes you feel that there’s danger at every turn for a relentless, edge-of-your-seat read that is both heartbreaking and empowering by the time you reach the end. Overall, Fire and Tears is a highly recommended read for fans of realistic, visceral thrillers with an important message at the core.
In Fire and Tears by Jessica Lewandowski, Jade’s life has been stolen time and again, first by her stepfather, who sells her to the highest bidder, and then by Ivan, a ruthless man who refuses to let her go. Escaping from his grip, she flees across a snowy mountainside, but her past is never far behind. With a mysterious ally searching for her and demons that won’t stay buried, Jade must decide whether to keep running or stand and fight. A harrowing psychological thriller, Fire and Tears is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and the ultimate battle for freedom. Lewandowski writes with confidence and conviction in this very dark subject area so that her audience will take every moment seriously. This results in a haunting and powerful thriller where Jade’s fight for survival will stay with you long after the last page and make you think about the real-life issues surrounding trafficking and violence against women.
I felt connected to Jade thanks to the close, personal style of narration and the way Jessica Lewandowski lets us into her innermost feelings. The author crafts an unflinching and gripping story of courage in the face of unimaginable darkness, where we’re with our heroine every step of the way. The world and character development around Jade is visceral and real at every turn, making those raw, intense, and deeply emotional moments resonate just like they would if they were playing out live in front of you. This, when combined with the jagged sense of pacing, makes you feel that there’s danger at every turn for a relentless, edge-of-your-seat read that is both heartbreaking and empowering by the time you reach the end. Overall, Fire and Tears is a highly recommended read for fans of realistic, visceral thrillers with an important message at the core.
Recommend this book:
The Price of Revenge
She can't run far enough...
Rita M Boehm
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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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
Kindle Edition
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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
Check current price
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
Check current price
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
Kindle Edition
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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.
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