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The Alias
After a long and difficult divorce, Jacey thinks the worst is over. Little does she know she'll soon be forced to go undercover to protect her family, and in the process, she'll risk losing her identity, her future, and her heart. With a lightning pace, a good dose of humor, and a plot that's full of suspense, this thrilling novel is an edge-of-your-seat read.
208 pages, Paperback
First published May 8, 2011
8 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Slack
4 books64 followers Mandi Slack grew up in Orangeville, UT, where her father worked as a coal miner for eighteen years. In 1987 the coal mines shut down for a time and her father joined the U.S. Army. They were stationed in Hanau, Germany, and she had the opportunity to explore Europe. Mandi’s family returned to Utah in 1992, and moved to Orangeville, Utah, where she attended and completed High School. She then attended the College of Eastern Utah, where she studied Geology. Eventually Mandi changed her major and moved on to Utah State University while she completed a degree in Special Education. She then married her best friend, Charles Slack. They have three children, two dogs, and a lizard (sometimes several lizards).Their family loves to spend time together and one of their favorite things to do is rock hound. Her house is littered with rocks and minerals. Mandi loves the outdoors and she enjoys writing novels and short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 20, 2011
I enjoyed The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack. It's definitely a suspense novel that sweeps you right into the action and Jacey's life. If you liked the Julia Roberts movie Sleeping with the Enemy or the book Without a Flaw by Michele Ashman Bell, then you should definitely put The Alias on your to-read list!
February 25, 2012
Jacey Grayson is your average single mother who is just trying to create an ordinary life for her son, Blaze. She never dreamed that her haunting past with her ex-husband would threaten her way of life.
Fleeing for her life, Jacey takes her son to an unlikely place in hopes to keep her deranged husband from finding her.
Have you ever set a book down with a sigh after reading it, and think, "That was exhilarating."? I was whisked from the bustling city of Detroit to a lazy farm town in Utah.
This book has all the exciting elements that make a book a page-turner: adventure, romance, and the rush of hope that Jacey will escape with her and her son's life!
I was excited to see that Tucker has included Book Club Questions. I would love to answer a few as part of my book review:
Overall, how did you experience this book? What emotions did you experience while reading?
Well, I was certainly able to relate when Jacey trembled in fear as she recalled the anguish her ex-husband had inflicted. I couldn't help my tears as I read Jacey's anguish when her husband hurt her in front of her boy. It is such an horrifying thing to see your beloved mother beaten as a helpless little child!
Jacey is frustrated and worried about the changes in her son, Blaze. Faced with her dilemma, how would you handle the situation?
I would not dismiss it as only the divorce or witnessing my abuse, but would've suspected something much deeper. Naturally, I would show him extra love, give him moral support, be completely open with my feelings and circumstances, and connect with him on a spiritual level.
Can you pick out a passage that strikes you as particularly interesting or profound?
Coming from an abusive home myself, the most striking part is this one sentence from page 204:
" 'I let his abuse influence what I believed about myself.' " Oh, let me tell you just how true this sentiment is. It is so profound and so controlling that it takes a tremendous effort to step out of yourself and rewire your brain to think otherwise--I've experienced both firsthand.
The Alias is well-thought out, well written, and executed with such precision, that I was not once pulled out of the story. The characters lived true to trait and according to trial as well. Well done, Mandi!
Fleeing for her life, Jacey takes her son to an unlikely place in hopes to keep her deranged husband from finding her.
Have you ever set a book down with a sigh after reading it, and think, "That was exhilarating."? I was whisked from the bustling city of Detroit to a lazy farm town in Utah.
This book has all the exciting elements that make a book a page-turner: adventure, romance, and the rush of hope that Jacey will escape with her and her son's life!
I was excited to see that Tucker has included Book Club Questions. I would love to answer a few as part of my book review:
Overall, how did you experience this book? What emotions did you experience while reading?
Well, I was certainly able to relate when Jacey trembled in fear as she recalled the anguish her ex-husband had inflicted. I couldn't help my tears as I read Jacey's anguish when her husband hurt her in front of her boy. It is such an horrifying thing to see your beloved mother beaten as a helpless little child!
Jacey is frustrated and worried about the changes in her son, Blaze. Faced with her dilemma, how would you handle the situation?
I would not dismiss it as only the divorce or witnessing my abuse, but would've suspected something much deeper. Naturally, I would show him extra love, give him moral support, be completely open with my feelings and circumstances, and connect with him on a spiritual level.
Can you pick out a passage that strikes you as particularly interesting or profound?
Coming from an abusive home myself, the most striking part is this one sentence from page 204:
" 'I let his abuse influence what I believed about myself.' " Oh, let me tell you just how true this sentiment is. It is so profound and so controlling that it takes a tremendous effort to step out of yourself and rewire your brain to think otherwise--I've experienced both firsthand.
The Alias is well-thought out, well written, and executed with such precision, that I was not once pulled out of the story. The characters lived true to trait and according to trial as well. Well done, Mandi!
July 11, 2011
A well written action/suspense/romance/adventure story. I loved the way the story unfolded and the way we got to see how Jacey made her choices. She is an abused woman who has reasons for the way she behaves and the choices she made were difficult and realistic. I didn't like (nor did she) involving her son in lying to wonderful people. I loved the secondary characters- they were real and fun. Everyone wants an Aunt and Uncle like them. I liked how she had such guilt for her lies, and how she tried to make things right. The only thing I didn't like was- when you have a character that uses uncommon words in their dialog, you need to make sure other characters don't use the same word. Since I don't know anyone who refers to family and friends as 'babe', it is like a bucket of cold water in the face when several characters are calling each other 'babe'. It just pulled me right out of the story and it took me a minute to get back into things. Great first novel about starting over, fighting for what's right and learning who you are:)
June 4, 2012
3.5
I liked this one. I probably would have changed a few things, but overall I thought it was enjoyable. Jacey decides to go into hiding with her young son, Blaze (dumb name, IMO), when she fears her abusive ex-husband is going to take him away. She pretends to be her best friend Melissa and goes to stay with Melissa’s estranged family. Part of my problem with the book is that her time in Utah is only about a week. I wish she had spent more time there and it definitely would have made her relationship with Kale more believable. Coming from an abusive long-term relationship I think she jumped into things with Kale too quickly, especially since the majority of their time together Kale is rather short with her. It was only the last two days that he was finally nice. But, if you just look at is as a work of fiction and not overanalyze everything (e.g. like how fast her ex-husband trails are handled) then it’s a pretty enjoyable read.
Content: Clean. Talk of spousal abuse, a tad violent.
I liked this one. I probably would have changed a few things, but overall I thought it was enjoyable. Jacey decides to go into hiding with her young son, Blaze (dumb name, IMO), when she fears her abusive ex-husband is going to take him away. She pretends to be her best friend Melissa and goes to stay with Melissa’s estranged family. Part of my problem with the book is that her time in Utah is only about a week. I wish she had spent more time there and it definitely would have made her relationship with Kale more believable. Coming from an abusive long-term relationship I think she jumped into things with Kale too quickly, especially since the majority of their time together Kale is rather short with her. It was only the last two days that he was finally nice. But, if you just look at is as a work of fiction and not overanalyze everything (e.g. like how fast her ex-husband trails are handled) then it’s a pretty enjoyable read.
Content: Clean. Talk of spousal abuse, a tad violent.
October 18, 2011
I'm coming to grips with the idea that not all books have to be considered classic literature to be good. There are books that are so amazing that they change your life and these are the books that I have long considered to be the ones worthy of my time. However, in doing book reviews, I am now reading more of the non-life shattering books. They may never make it to The New York Times Bestsellers, and that is perfectly o.k. As an aspiring author these books are giving me courage to get my stories onto a page.
The Alias is in the second category. It's a simple story. It will probably never make the New York Times Bestsellers. It's short and sweet. It wasn't life shattering for me, yet it was a completely enjoyable read. I read the book in a few hours. As I read this book, my philosophy on book enjoyment changed. Novels don't have to be long with complex plots and words like honey to be good. Not every author needs to be a JK Rowling or a Suzanne Collins. Mandi Slack is a small town Utah girl who loves the outdoors. She isn't pretentious, I can tell this in her writing. She is the kind of mom with whom I would love to sit down and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. She's imaginative. She's deep. She has a great understanding of what kinds of inner struggles a women has when she is in an abusive relationship. She wrote a great short novel. It's the kind of book someone needs to have in their possession on a intercontinental flight or for a night off with no kids and a bubble bath. It's also the kind of book that a busy mom can squeeze in and enjoy in pieces between carpools, mealtimes, and before her head hits the pillow.
The storyline is simple. There is this girl names Jacey. She has a best friend Melissa. Jacey is running away from her psychopath husband and doing everything she can to protect her darling son. She's a big city girl, but ends up in small-town Utah. The characters in Utah are so love-able that you will want them for your own distant relatives. There is a love interest that is just as dreamy as Jacob or Peeta. Two side story-lines are life on the farm and life as a Mormon. Neither are overwhelmingly saturated, so I would recommend this book to all of my friends.
I loved the book. It left me with characters who will go on with me through all the books I will read in the future. I looked deep inside myself to find that I share some insecurities with a fictional battered woman. Thank goodness I am married to a gentle giant. The Alias left me wanting to work on those insecurities. I loved the ending of the book. I am HUGE on the endings, as you all know. I got closure; that's important to me.
On page 158, I absolutely adored the descriptions of the close-by Provo Canyon. If you read the book, and have never been to Utah, you have to know that the descriptive narration here is all spot-on. The Provo Canyon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I loved seeing it through Jacey's eyes.
Buy the book. Read it. And then come and visit me and I will take you to the Provo Canyon to see the awesome geological wonders as well as Mt. Timpanogos and Bridal Veil Falls.
The Alias is in the second category. It's a simple story. It will probably never make the New York Times Bestsellers. It's short and sweet. It wasn't life shattering for me, yet it was a completely enjoyable read. I read the book in a few hours. As I read this book, my philosophy on book enjoyment changed. Novels don't have to be long with complex plots and words like honey to be good. Not every author needs to be a JK Rowling or a Suzanne Collins. Mandi Slack is a small town Utah girl who loves the outdoors. She isn't pretentious, I can tell this in her writing. She is the kind of mom with whom I would love to sit down and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. She's imaginative. She's deep. She has a great understanding of what kinds of inner struggles a women has when she is in an abusive relationship. She wrote a great short novel. It's the kind of book someone needs to have in their possession on a intercontinental flight or for a night off with no kids and a bubble bath. It's also the kind of book that a busy mom can squeeze in and enjoy in pieces between carpools, mealtimes, and before her head hits the pillow.
The storyline is simple. There is this girl names Jacey. She has a best friend Melissa. Jacey is running away from her psychopath husband and doing everything she can to protect her darling son. She's a big city girl, but ends up in small-town Utah. The characters in Utah are so love-able that you will want them for your own distant relatives. There is a love interest that is just as dreamy as Jacob or Peeta. Two side story-lines are life on the farm and life as a Mormon. Neither are overwhelmingly saturated, so I would recommend this book to all of my friends.
I loved the book. It left me with characters who will go on with me through all the books I will read in the future. I looked deep inside myself to find that I share some insecurities with a fictional battered woman. Thank goodness I am married to a gentle giant. The Alias left me wanting to work on those insecurities. I loved the ending of the book. I am HUGE on the endings, as you all know. I got closure; that's important to me.
On page 158, I absolutely adored the descriptions of the close-by Provo Canyon. If you read the book, and have never been to Utah, you have to know that the descriptive narration here is all spot-on. The Provo Canyon is one of the most beautiful places on earth. I loved seeing it through Jacey's eyes.
Buy the book. Read it. And then come and visit me and I will take you to the Provo Canyon to see the awesome geological wonders as well as Mt. Timpanogos and Bridal Veil Falls.
October 10, 2011
The Way I See It:The Alias by Mandy Slack was a fast paced story about a lady name Jayce Grayson who is forced to go into hiding to protect both herself and her young son from her ex-husband. As if that isn't enough, FBI agents show up at her door one day asking her about her ex-husband business dealings and her part int it. Concerned that if the FBI can find her, then her ex-husband can, she makes a desperate move to take on someone else's identity and steps into life as them in order to buy some time.
Little did Jayce realize the deep impact the loving, welcoming LDS family has on her heart and her conscience. And for the first time in her life she feels accepted and part of a real family. Guilt builds inside her as a result of her deception, but she can't help but notice that her withdrawn and sullen son is perking back to life and acting like any nine year old boy should. She finds peace and a sense of security in the open arms of the McCoy's.
And then things begin to narrow as Jacey must find a way ensure her son's safety even if it means the possibility of her own death, she will do whatever is necessary to protect him. And she must rely on others to help her, something she doesn't do well.
I found this story to be fun and filled with unexpected dips and turns. Some things caught me off guard and at times I was worried and really afraid for the outcome of the characters and wondered how things would all end. I really couldn't be 100% sure until the end of the story. I loved the build in tension as Mandi weaves all the player's parts together through a timeline of events that lead to the surprising conclusion.
I liked how Mandi handled the delicate subject of an abused spouse in hiding. The way this story reveals what happened and how Jayce learned to stand for herself in the face of someone who once held great trust in her heart was wonderfully done. I came away from this story with such hope when Jacey was able to find strength within herself to do what she needed to do no matter the cost to herself. That she was more than she ever realized and that growth is shown through Jacey's emotions and how she is able to confront demons from her past head on.
I loved the way you felt the countdown race to the climax and a sense of not knowing the outcome for sure, made the race that much more desperate.
I enjoyed watching the different journeys of side characters as they learn great things about them selves and the strength they have to over come their darkest hours. I loved seeing that magnificence inside them shine and blossom through the course of the book.
This adventurous story is a story is a clean read that I recommend to children 11 and older, because of some of the descriptions of violent events that occur with the main character.
Little did Jayce realize the deep impact the loving, welcoming LDS family has on her heart and her conscience. And for the first time in her life she feels accepted and part of a real family. Guilt builds inside her as a result of her deception, but she can't help but notice that her withdrawn and sullen son is perking back to life and acting like any nine year old boy should. She finds peace and a sense of security in the open arms of the McCoy's.
And then things begin to narrow as Jacey must find a way ensure her son's safety even if it means the possibility of her own death, she will do whatever is necessary to protect him. And she must rely on others to help her, something she doesn't do well.
I found this story to be fun and filled with unexpected dips and turns. Some things caught me off guard and at times I was worried and really afraid for the outcome of the characters and wondered how things would all end. I really couldn't be 100% sure until the end of the story. I loved the build in tension as Mandi weaves all the player's parts together through a timeline of events that lead to the surprising conclusion.
I liked how Mandi handled the delicate subject of an abused spouse in hiding. The way this story reveals what happened and how Jayce learned to stand for herself in the face of someone who once held great trust in her heart was wonderfully done. I came away from this story with such hope when Jacey was able to find strength within herself to do what she needed to do no matter the cost to herself. That she was more than she ever realized and that growth is shown through Jacey's emotions and how she is able to confront demons from her past head on.
I loved the way you felt the countdown race to the climax and a sense of not knowing the outcome for sure, made the race that much more desperate.
I enjoyed watching the different journeys of side characters as they learn great things about them selves and the strength they have to over come their darkest hours. I loved seeing that magnificence inside them shine and blossom through the course of the book.
This adventurous story is a story is a clean read that I recommend to children 11 and older, because of some of the descriptions of violent events that occur with the main character.
October 4, 2011
The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack is an LDS romantic suspense with a twist--definitely good if you like books that keep you guessing. (And I really liked the cover art for this book. Very nice!)
Jacey is approached by the FBI regarding her abusive ex-husband and his possible criminal activity. She realizes that if the FBI can track her, then her ex-husband with all of his connections can, too, and she needs to get herself and her young son as far away as possible. She takes on the identity of her roommate and flees to a small town in Utah to hopefully hide until she can decide what to do. What she doesn’t know is that her son is carrying a terrible secret.
I loved the scenes with the heroine’s young son, and the author clearly shows how affected he is by the events surrounding him. His reaction to the farm and the loving people they are staying with rings true and sincere. His mother seems to be the typical abused woman, but she does have a few bright sparks around her as she reacts to the handsome son of the couple she’s staying with. The idyllic farm setting makes a great backdrop for the healing this mom and son must start. But, of course, dark clouds are forming on the horizon, literally and figuratively.
The book takes you to an exciting conclusion and I thought the way the author tied up the “bad guy” storyline was quite clever. Unfortunately, the abusive ex-husband was fairly stereotypical and two-dimensional, but his ties to the mob made him a bit more interesting. The beauty of the setting was also interesting and easy to imagine, yet, at times, the descriptions slowed down the pace and became redundant. But I thought the author did a great job in giving us an ending that would leave anyone breathless.
I loved our hero, Kale, and how vulnerable he was with the trials he'd endured in his life. Everyone knows I love a tortured hero! But the romance seemed a bit rushed to me at times, considering the enormity of the situation and the lies that were told. But, then again, it just goes to show that Kale is a very forgiving peron and who wouldn't want that in a man?
One personal thing that drove me crazy was that the author has several of her characters use the word “babe.” It was really distracting for me because it was used so often, but that's just a small personal thing that probably wouldn't bother anyone else.
Other than those small little things, I thought the story was one I'd recommend to all my friends who love a good suspense. I think Ms. Slack is definitely an up and coming author who will be one to watch on the LDS romantic suspense scene.
Originally reviewed on my blog http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
Jacey is approached by the FBI regarding her abusive ex-husband and his possible criminal activity. She realizes that if the FBI can track her, then her ex-husband with all of his connections can, too, and she needs to get herself and her young son as far away as possible. She takes on the identity of her roommate and flees to a small town in Utah to hopefully hide until she can decide what to do. What she doesn’t know is that her son is carrying a terrible secret.
I loved the scenes with the heroine’s young son, and the author clearly shows how affected he is by the events surrounding him. His reaction to the farm and the loving people they are staying with rings true and sincere. His mother seems to be the typical abused woman, but she does have a few bright sparks around her as she reacts to the handsome son of the couple she’s staying with. The idyllic farm setting makes a great backdrop for the healing this mom and son must start. But, of course, dark clouds are forming on the horizon, literally and figuratively.
The book takes you to an exciting conclusion and I thought the way the author tied up the “bad guy” storyline was quite clever. Unfortunately, the abusive ex-husband was fairly stereotypical and two-dimensional, but his ties to the mob made him a bit more interesting. The beauty of the setting was also interesting and easy to imagine, yet, at times, the descriptions slowed down the pace and became redundant. But I thought the author did a great job in giving us an ending that would leave anyone breathless.
I loved our hero, Kale, and how vulnerable he was with the trials he'd endured in his life. Everyone knows I love a tortured hero! But the romance seemed a bit rushed to me at times, considering the enormity of the situation and the lies that were told. But, then again, it just goes to show that Kale is a very forgiving peron and who wouldn't want that in a man?
One personal thing that drove me crazy was that the author has several of her characters use the word “babe.” It was really distracting for me because it was used so often, but that's just a small personal thing that probably wouldn't bother anyone else.
Other than those small little things, I thought the story was one I'd recommend to all my friends who love a good suspense. I think Ms. Slack is definitely an up and coming author who will be one to watch on the LDS romantic suspense scene.
Originally reviewed on my blog http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com
October 14, 2011
Review originally posted on www.ldswbr.com - Blog tour review of The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack http://bit.ly/p3gzbI
I really like they way the cityscape and landscape from the two main locations are blended together on the front cover. It caught my eye. The story caught my attention as well, and I had no problem turning pages because I wanted to see what would happen. I believe this is the author’s debut novel, and if so, she did a great job on her first published novel.
I liked the main characters and the relationship between Jacey and her son, Blaze. I despised John, her ex-husband, though at times his character felt a tad bit cliche. The writing is good with a nice flow and the suspense was effective. The climax near the end in the woods was very well done. I found it gripping and was swept up in the emotion between mother and son. I also enjoyed the relationship between Grant and Blaze.
Those who like a little romance with their suspense won’t be disappointed. I wasn’t sure how to take Kale at first, but soon caught on as to why he was acting the way he was toward Jacey.
At about 200 pages, The Alias is a fairly quick read and held my attention until the end.
There were only a few things that came up that I might have changed. Using the name Blaze for the boy was distracting to me. It is different enough from the other characters’ names that it stuck out to me and pulled me from the story a bit. The next thing could be considered a ***SPOILER*** so if you have read the book or don’t care about spoilers, click and drag to highlight the text below to read it. If you hate spoilers, then don’t.
***POSSIBLE SPOILER***
There was good romantic tension throughout the first part of Jacey and Kale’s developing relationship, but I was disappointed in the lack of kisses. There was one small kiss at the field office, but that was all. When they said those three wonderful words and became engaged at the end, there wasn’t even a hug. I know this is a mainly a suspense novel but considering the amount of focus on Kale and Jacey’s budding romance in the last half of the novel, it would have been nice to have a bit more lip-locking (clean, of course). That’s just my preference, though.
***END SPOILER***
I found The Alias to be an enjoyable read and give it 3.5 stars out of 5. I look forward to reading more of Mandi’s novels in the future.
I really like they way the cityscape and landscape from the two main locations are blended together on the front cover. It caught my eye. The story caught my attention as well, and I had no problem turning pages because I wanted to see what would happen. I believe this is the author’s debut novel, and if so, she did a great job on her first published novel.
I liked the main characters and the relationship between Jacey and her son, Blaze. I despised John, her ex-husband, though at times his character felt a tad bit cliche. The writing is good with a nice flow and the suspense was effective. The climax near the end in the woods was very well done. I found it gripping and was swept up in the emotion between mother and son. I also enjoyed the relationship between Grant and Blaze.
Those who like a little romance with their suspense won’t be disappointed. I wasn’t sure how to take Kale at first, but soon caught on as to why he was acting the way he was toward Jacey.
At about 200 pages, The Alias is a fairly quick read and held my attention until the end.
There were only a few things that came up that I might have changed. Using the name Blaze for the boy was distracting to me. It is different enough from the other characters’ names that it stuck out to me and pulled me from the story a bit. The next thing could be considered a ***SPOILER*** so if you have read the book or don’t care about spoilers, click and drag to highlight the text below to read it. If you hate spoilers, then don’t.
***POSSIBLE SPOILER***
There was good romantic tension throughout the first part of Jacey and Kale’s developing relationship, but I was disappointed in the lack of kisses. There was one small kiss at the field office, but that was all. When they said those three wonderful words and became engaged at the end, there wasn’t even a hug. I know this is a mainly a suspense novel but considering the amount of focus on Kale and Jacey’s budding romance in the last half of the novel, it would have been nice to have a bit more lip-locking (clean, of course). That’s just my preference, though.
***END SPOILER***
I found The Alias to be an enjoyable read and give it 3.5 stars out of 5. I look forward to reading more of Mandi’s novels in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2011
Jacey is a divorced single mom who is starting over. She left her abusive husband and is trying to have a new start with her son Blaze. The FBI starts investigating her ex for some serious crimes, and her ex wants Blaze back, so Jacey decides to leave for their safety.
Jacey's best friend, Melissa, suggests that Jacey assume her identity and go stay with her aunt and uncle in Utah to hide out. Melissa's aunt and uncle have only seen her in some older pictures, so it seems like as long as Jacey can lie and pretend she is Melissa she can hide out there.
My thoughts:
This book had a lot of suspense and action. I liked the pacing of the story, and while some outcomes were predictable I found that there was enough going on to keep me very engaged in the story. I did find the domestic abuse flashbacks that Jacey had very realistic, and so these were extremely hard to read at times. I teared up and had to put the book down once.
When Jacey and Blaze arrived in Utah, I loved reading descriptions of the farm and surrounding area. I could tell right away that the author had spent a lot of time in Utah, and she described it so well that I could picture it with ease.
I enjoyed Grant, Helen, and Kale. They were such a nice family, and welcoming and kind to Jacey and Blaze.
I also wanted to mention that I liked reading about the Mormon church and religion. I wasn't sure how I would feel about it at first. I have no experience with this church, and have heard very little about it. The author presented it well, and it didn't feel preachy or weird to me. It found it very interesting and was glad to read about it.
My only criticism with this book would be is that I thought the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly. It seemed very rushed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was a great read. The domestic abuse was hard to read about, but I was glad Jacey escaped it.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. Thank you! :)
Jacey's best friend, Melissa, suggests that Jacey assume her identity and go stay with her aunt and uncle in Utah to hide out. Melissa's aunt and uncle have only seen her in some older pictures, so it seems like as long as Jacey can lie and pretend she is Melissa she can hide out there.
My thoughts:
This book had a lot of suspense and action. I liked the pacing of the story, and while some outcomes were predictable I found that there was enough going on to keep me very engaged in the story. I did find the domestic abuse flashbacks that Jacey had very realistic, and so these were extremely hard to read at times. I teared up and had to put the book down once.
When Jacey and Blaze arrived in Utah, I loved reading descriptions of the farm and surrounding area. I could tell right away that the author had spent a lot of time in Utah, and she described it so well that I could picture it with ease.
I enjoyed Grant, Helen, and Kale. They were such a nice family, and welcoming and kind to Jacey and Blaze.
I also wanted to mention that I liked reading about the Mormon church and religion. I wasn't sure how I would feel about it at first. I have no experience with this church, and have heard very little about it. The author presented it well, and it didn't feel preachy or weird to me. It found it very interesting and was glad to read about it.
My only criticism with this book would be is that I thought the ending wrapped up a bit too quickly. It seemed very rushed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was a great read. The domestic abuse was hard to read about, but I was glad Jacey escaped it.
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. Thank you! :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2012
I blame Mandy Slack for my migraine today. She wrote The Alias, a book so compelling that I made myself sick reading for so long. It's not often that a book gets that kind of accolade from me. I do read constantly, but usually I can bear to put it down at least sometime. I fell asleep with The Alias awake on my Kindle last night.
Jaycey's story was completely believable. Having had an ex who boasted of Mafia connections, I knew exactly where she was coming from. She put me right into the middle of the firestorm such that I was glad to get back out with my life, and with Jacey's. The writing was clear and the images vivid. The conversations were believable, as was the plot. There wasn't really anything which took me out of the story. She accurately described many of the places I've been myself in Utah, including the old rusty works at Bridalveil falls. I could see every place they went in my mind's eye.
I don't remember if my family has been to Mona, but I'm betting we have. Those tiny towns in southern Utah are often exactly as Mandy described Mona. In fact, as we've gone through lots of those towns we notice the fake cops at the side of the road to deter speeders. Spotting them is now a game with our family. I love those tiny old towns and would like someday to move to one of them...after our kids don't need constant entertainment anymore...;o)
I applaud Jacey's decision to get the control of her life into her own hands and not simply run into Kale's so capable arms to save her. By the way, I picture Kale in the movie being played by Matt Davis. Mmm luscious! I haven't landed on one for Jaycey or Blaze.
The one beef I had was the over-use of the word "babe". I get that from Jacey, but Mandy had other people use it too and I hoped for other terms of endearment. Other than that very small item, this was a fantastic book! I'm so glad it's in my library! I wish I had another Mandy Slack book to read right now, as I'm jonesing for a great read.
Jaycey's story was completely believable. Having had an ex who boasted of Mafia connections, I knew exactly where she was coming from. She put me right into the middle of the firestorm such that I was glad to get back out with my life, and with Jacey's. The writing was clear and the images vivid. The conversations were believable, as was the plot. There wasn't really anything which took me out of the story. She accurately described many of the places I've been myself in Utah, including the old rusty works at Bridalveil falls. I could see every place they went in my mind's eye.
I don't remember if my family has been to Mona, but I'm betting we have. Those tiny towns in southern Utah are often exactly as Mandy described Mona. In fact, as we've gone through lots of those towns we notice the fake cops at the side of the road to deter speeders. Spotting them is now a game with our family. I love those tiny old towns and would like someday to move to one of them...after our kids don't need constant entertainment anymore...;o)
I applaud Jacey's decision to get the control of her life into her own hands and not simply run into Kale's so capable arms to save her. By the way, I picture Kale in the movie being played by Matt Davis. Mmm luscious! I haven't landed on one for Jaycey or Blaze.
The one beef I had was the over-use of the word "babe". I get that from Jacey, but Mandy had other people use it too and I hoped for other terms of endearment. Other than that very small item, this was a fantastic book! I'm so glad it's in my library! I wish I had another Mandy Slack book to read right now, as I'm jonesing for a great read.
October 12, 2011
When Jacey Grayson is finally able to divorce her abusive husband, she finally believes she will be able to move on with her life. However, when the FBI shows up and begins asking questions about her ex-husband's mob ties, she has no idea what they're talking about. Fearing for her life and the life of her son Blaze, Jacey assumes her best friend Melissa's identity and flees to rural Utah. As Jacey and Blaze are welcomed by Melissa's family, Jacey is torn from the need to lie and protect her son, and the desire to reveal her secrets to the wonderful people who have sheltered them.
The Alias has terrific elements: a charming hero, a sweet heroine, a precocious child, suspense and intrigue. I thought that the author covered the issues of spousal abuse well. Jacey's situation wasn't handled with a heavy hand, nor was it glossed over. The LDS elements are subtle and woven into the story in a natural, non-preachy way. And Grant and Helen? Fantastic characters, and just like everyone's favorite aunt and uncle.
While I liked these characters, I did find some of them to be somewhat one-dimensional, especially the ex-husband and the FBI agents. I also, personally, hate the endearment "babe". It always sounds wrong to me and Jacey uses it quite often, especially when referring to her son, Blaze, which is a name that I'm really curious about. It sounds like the name for a romance novel hero, not a sweet, precocious child. But, the author seems to like different names and unique spellings and both of those things are certainly more common these days. I think I'm just old.
Those issues are mine, however, and I think that this is a terrific debut novel from an author with a fantastic potential. I look forward to more from Mandi Slack.
The Alias has terrific elements: a charming hero, a sweet heroine, a precocious child, suspense and intrigue. I thought that the author covered the issues of spousal abuse well. Jacey's situation wasn't handled with a heavy hand, nor was it glossed over. The LDS elements are subtle and woven into the story in a natural, non-preachy way. And Grant and Helen? Fantastic characters, and just like everyone's favorite aunt and uncle.
While I liked these characters, I did find some of them to be somewhat one-dimensional, especially the ex-husband and the FBI agents. I also, personally, hate the endearment "babe". It always sounds wrong to me and Jacey uses it quite often, especially when referring to her son, Blaze, which is a name that I'm really curious about. It sounds like the name for a romance novel hero, not a sweet, precocious child. But, the author seems to like different names and unique spellings and both of those things are certainly more common these days. I think I'm just old.
Those issues are mine, however, and I think that this is a terrific debut novel from an author with a fantastic potential. I look forward to more from Mandi Slack.
October 21, 2011
The Point of the Plot
Jacey Grayson is on the run from her abusive ex-husband. She finds solace pretending to be her best friend Melissa in the home of Melissa's loving, but estranged, relatives in Utah--that is, except for their son Kale, who seems to see right through her. Determined to protect her son, Jacey will do anything to keep them safe.
Basically Believable: *****
Mandi should be congratulated for being the first to earn five stars in this category, but I had to give them. Nothing about this book made me stop and say--Nah, I can't see that. In all the books I've read, I've found that writing about the FBI or any other agency is hard to pull off without sounding like a bad spy movie--especially when it plays a major role but skims mostly along in the background. I think Mandi nailed it here.
Charismatic Characters: ****
Yup, five more stars. Jacey, Kale, Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant, Blaze, Melissa--everyone acted the way I expected. Maybe not always how I wanted, but always in character. :) They were lovable too! Keeping the story primarily from Jacey's POV and not wandering into Kale's POV just to provide scope helped keep my attention. (I've never mentioned how the typical romance structure of two POV's, each person thinking the totally wrong thing about the other, bothers me, right?) Jacey's struggles to protect her son hit me particularly. I often said to myself--yeah, I'd go that far.
Yay or Yuck? (The Final Word): ****
I have to be honest, it took me a few chapters to really get into the book, but by the first time John, Jacey's ex-husband, shows up, Mandi had me on the ropes. Like all good thrillers, by half-way through I couldn't put it down.
Favorite quote: "...these skeeters think I'm a dang blood donor."
Jacey Grayson is on the run from her abusive ex-husband. She finds solace pretending to be her best friend Melissa in the home of Melissa's loving, but estranged, relatives in Utah--that is, except for their son Kale, who seems to see right through her. Determined to protect her son, Jacey will do anything to keep them safe.
Basically Believable: *****
Mandi should be congratulated for being the first to earn five stars in this category, but I had to give them. Nothing about this book made me stop and say--Nah, I can't see that. In all the books I've read, I've found that writing about the FBI or any other agency is hard to pull off without sounding like a bad spy movie--especially when it plays a major role but skims mostly along in the background. I think Mandi nailed it here.
Charismatic Characters: ****
Yup, five more stars. Jacey, Kale, Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant, Blaze, Melissa--everyone acted the way I expected. Maybe not always how I wanted, but always in character. :) They were lovable too! Keeping the story primarily from Jacey's POV and not wandering into Kale's POV just to provide scope helped keep my attention. (I've never mentioned how the typical romance structure of two POV's, each person thinking the totally wrong thing about the other, bothers me, right?) Jacey's struggles to protect her son hit me particularly. I often said to myself--yeah, I'd go that far.
Yay or Yuck? (The Final Word): ****
I have to be honest, it took me a few chapters to really get into the book, but by the first time John, Jacey's ex-husband, shows up, Mandi had me on the ropes. Like all good thrillers, by half-way through I couldn't put it down.
Favorite quote: "...these skeeters think I'm a dang blood donor."
March 21, 2012
Jacey Grayson, with her young son Blaze, are living with her best friend Melissa and her young daughter, Jenny, trying to put the past behind them and start over.
Her ex-husband, John, who was abusive, has been suspected of having murdered a journalist and in being involved with a crime family in Chicago. The FBI suspects she knows more than she's telling, so, with Melissa's help, she goes in hiding to Utah to protect herself and Blaze.
When they arrive at Melissa's relative's farm, she feels guilty for lying about who she is, as they welcome her with love immediately. Both Jacey and Blaze feel at home right from the start, but knows they'll have to leave soon to find work and a place to live. When she meets Kale, her "cousin," he's unfriendly towards her. Jacey loves the sloer pace of farm life, helping with the chores with Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant.
When her ex-husband gets too close for comfort by threatening Melissa and Jenny, and threatens her, she's forced to go to him to protect Blaze. When her new found family all come to the rescue to save them both, she realizes how much she is loved.
I loved this fast-paced suspense novel, esp with the setting in Mona, Utah, being close to the mountains by Payson and Provo. I really liked the small town ambiance with horses, gathering eggs, having Aunt Helen showing Jacey how to make bread, apple pie and cookies, as she had only prepared boxed meals in the past.
Her ex-husband, John, who was abusive, has been suspected of having murdered a journalist and in being involved with a crime family in Chicago. The FBI suspects she knows more than she's telling, so, with Melissa's help, she goes in hiding to Utah to protect herself and Blaze.
When they arrive at Melissa's relative's farm, she feels guilty for lying about who she is, as they welcome her with love immediately. Both Jacey and Blaze feel at home right from the start, but knows they'll have to leave soon to find work and a place to live. When she meets Kale, her "cousin," he's unfriendly towards her. Jacey loves the sloer pace of farm life, helping with the chores with Aunt Helen and Uncle Grant.
When her ex-husband gets too close for comfort by threatening Melissa and Jenny, and threatens her, she's forced to go to him to protect Blaze. When her new found family all come to the rescue to save them both, she realizes how much she is loved.
I loved this fast-paced suspense novel, esp with the setting in Mona, Utah, being close to the mountains by Payson and Provo. I really liked the small town ambiance with horses, gathering eggs, having Aunt Helen showing Jacey how to make bread, apple pie and cookies, as she had only prepared boxed meals in the past.
January 18, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well developed. The story seemed to flow very well without making me feel like there were things happening just to move the story forward. I loved how though Jacey was going under a different name, I never got confused when they used the other name. The romance in this was just perfect for me. Nothing blushworthy ever, and it developed in a way I could accept without making it feel like it was forced. But it was still very sweet and romantic and I couldn't help rooting for the couple.
Jacey stayed in an abusive relationship for many years and when she eventually got out of it, she works hard at making a new life for herself. I loved how the author made us aware of how women from abusive relationships are all different, but may have similar reasons for sticking with it. But I also loved how Jacey changed and made a person for herself that wasn't going to ever allow herself to be abused again.
The only problem I had with this story was Jacey's ex, John. Of course he was a creep, and I did get his motivations for why he did what he did, but there were a couple places where when he was talking to his partner in crime he sounded a little too "tough guy". Besides that one little thing that's hardly worth mentioning, I really loved this book. It was a fast read and I never once wanted to put it down and go look for something else to do.
Jacey stayed in an abusive relationship for many years and when she eventually got out of it, she works hard at making a new life for herself. I loved how the author made us aware of how women from abusive relationships are all different, but may have similar reasons for sticking with it. But I also loved how Jacey changed and made a person for herself that wasn't going to ever allow herself to be abused again.
The only problem I had with this story was Jacey's ex, John. Of course he was a creep, and I did get his motivations for why he did what he did, but there were a couple places where when he was talking to his partner in crime he sounded a little too "tough guy". Besides that one little thing that's hardly worth mentioning, I really loved this book. It was a fast read and I never once wanted to put it down and go look for something else to do.
October 10, 2011
This book grabbed my attention from the get-go and held it all the way through to the end. It was fast paced and engaging. It took me, oh, one day to finish reading this book. I really felt the emotions of Jacey, willing to do anything to protect her son from an abusive monster of a man. Her story, along with so many real life people who deal with physical and emotional abuse every day, is just heart wrenching. I can’t even imagine living like that. I admired Jacey’s courage and her determination to be stronger, to face her fears and find peace.
I loved Uncle Grant and Aunt Helen. To me they personified the very essence of family. No matter the distance or the years, family is family. You take them in with open arms and a heart full of love. They really felt like home to me.
The cover of the book is cool too. It’s what first attracted me to the book. The Wasatch Mountains pictured on the front cover really are beautiful. I get to look out my window and see them every day.
My thanks to Tristi Pinkston for including me in the blog tour and thanks also to Cedar Fort for providing the book for me to read.
I'm having a giveaway for this book on my blog if anyone is interested. Giveaway runs 10-11-2011 through 10/31/2011 at http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.bl...
I loved Uncle Grant and Aunt Helen. To me they personified the very essence of family. No matter the distance or the years, family is family. You take them in with open arms and a heart full of love. They really felt like home to me.
The cover of the book is cool too. It’s what first attracted me to the book. The Wasatch Mountains pictured on the front cover really are beautiful. I get to look out my window and see them every day.
My thanks to Tristi Pinkston for including me in the blog tour and thanks also to Cedar Fort for providing the book for me to read.
I'm having a giveaway for this book on my blog if anyone is interested. Giveaway runs 10-11-2011 through 10/31/2011 at http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.bl...
April 15, 2012
This is an awesome story that is very well written about spouse and partner abuse. It is written quite tastefully, yet powerfully, with a hint of romance to make it all better. This is a hard subject for any woman that has been in an abusive relationship, and for those in their families who have to watch them suffer. Mandi uses all her love for country life and sprinkles it with the gospel of Jesus Christ to make this into a beautiful work.
Jacey is a young woman with a nine-year-old son. After her husband beats her almost to death, she divorces him and claims custody of their nine-year-old son, Blaze. Six months later we find her with a friend in another state, far from her ex-husband. She is working, but barely making ends meet. After the FBI comes calling on her with many questions about her ex’s activities, she freaks out and runs to a small town to hide. The problem is that she has to lie to do so, and places her friends in danger. Yet she will do anything to save her son from his father.
I enjoyed the pace in this clean tale and the feeling in this book. Mandy did a fabulous job writing about this topic. Hopefully, this book will help someone break the cycle and be free of this terror.
Very well done.
Anna del C. Dye
for tales of Elfs & Romance
http://www.annadelc.com
Jacey is a young woman with a nine-year-old son. After her husband beats her almost to death, she divorces him and claims custody of their nine-year-old son, Blaze. Six months later we find her with a friend in another state, far from her ex-husband. She is working, but barely making ends meet. After the FBI comes calling on her with many questions about her ex’s activities, she freaks out and runs to a small town to hide. The problem is that she has to lie to do so, and places her friends in danger. Yet she will do anything to save her son from his father.
I enjoyed the pace in this clean tale and the feeling in this book. Mandy did a fabulous job writing about this topic. Hopefully, this book will help someone break the cycle and be free of this terror.
Very well done.
Anna del C. Dye
for tales of Elfs & Romance
http://www.annadelc.com
September 20, 2011
This was a sweet story about starting over. Jacey Grayson is escaping an abusive relationship and its fallout when she ends up in Utah hiding on a farm at the end of a dirt lane in Mona. But in order to stay hidden, she has to lie her socks off about who she is. "Uncle Grant" and "Aunt Helen" are really kind and the guilt of lying to them eats at Jacey--but not more than the fear. When John, her ex-husband, locates her, he shows up and nabs their son, Blaze, while Jacey is out buying feed for the animals (what passes for a date in Utah!) with Grant and Helen's handsome son, Kale. And then the truth all comes out, Blaze has to be rescued, and before it's all over, so does Jacey. John may have gun, but Kale has a bigger one (Ha! I loved that part!).
I really liked how familiar all the people seemed. The characterizations were very real and down-to-earth. I liked that Jacey had this great example of family, something she'd never had, when she stayed on the farm, and that she felt acceptance and curiousity when she went to the Mormon church. The action was not too suspenseful and it moved along well. The only part I thought was too slow was the beginning, but it was because I knew she was headed to Utah (and a romance) and I just wanted her to get there already!
I really liked how familiar all the people seemed. The characterizations were very real and down-to-earth. I liked that Jacey had this great example of family, something she'd never had, when she stayed on the farm, and that she felt acceptance and curiousity when she went to the Mormon church. The action was not too suspenseful and it moved along well. The only part I thought was too slow was the beginning, but it was because I knew she was headed to Utah (and a romance) and I just wanted her to get there already!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2011
I have to say that I love a book that is clean. Anyone who knows me or who has read my own work knows that. Even more than that, I love a book that is clean and GOOD! And Slack's The Alias fits that bill very well. Jacey Grayson is forced to go into hiding to protect herself and her son from her violent ex-husband. She's not happy about the deception required, especially when she sees her son becoming sullen and withdrawn. But she finds a sense of safety at the ranch in rural Utah with Grant and Helen, two very lovable characters. Of course, the story doesn't end there, and her sense of security is shattered when her ex shows up and takes Blaze, her son. I don't want to give too much of the story away, but I do want to say that this is an edge-of-your-seat story, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I love that I couldn't figure out which way the story was going from the beginning, as happens many times with books. Never fear, there is also plenty of rmance for our sympathetic, very likeable heroine. Slack handles the abuse, romance, sense of family, suspense and action with a masterful hand, never too heavy handed or preachy, and never glossing over the reality of Jacey's situation. I highly recommend this book.
August 22, 2011
Jacey is a divorced mom who needs to escape her life, quickly. Her ex-Hubby, an abusive creep, has the FBI on his tail, and he also believes he deserves to have custody of their son, Blaze. Jacey assumes a "new" identity, and escapes to Utah with her son.
The story was intense, with action and suspense at every turn. The abuse by the Ex-hubby were real and heart-wrenching, making it difficult to read without crying.
The Alias was a great read and I enjoyed every last second of it!! First-time novelist Mandi Slack did a masterful job at telling a story on such a difficult subject. I can't wait to read more from her! Thanks, Mandi!
The story was intense, with action and suspense at every turn. The abuse by the Ex-hubby were real and heart-wrenching, making it difficult to read without crying.
The Alias was a great read and I enjoyed every last second of it!! First-time novelist Mandi Slack did a masterful job at telling a story on such a difficult subject. I can't wait to read more from her! Thanks, Mandi!
January 2, 2012
I just really enjoyed this book. The characters were vivid and likable. I especially enjoyed Uncle Grant and Aunt Helen. They reminded me of my rancher uncles and aunts I used to visit during my summer breaks growing up. It had lots of grit without being course or unnecessarily graphic that brought an authenticity to the story. The suspense was well written and very compelling toward the end. And not to give anything away but someone was even "hogtied" which was too cool. The only negative, and some might not even find it a problem, was that there were a few too many adverbs for my taste.
July 7, 2011
This was a book through Goodreads giveaway. thank you so much.
This was a very good book about a married woman who needs to escape from her exhusband who abused her in past and has found out he has possibly commited murder so she runs away as "an alias" to Utah to her best friend estranged aunt and uncles house. She also feels bad for lying and pretending to be someone else as she has to have her son lie also. This was a very good book and enjoyed the ending.
This was a very good book about a married woman who needs to escape from her exhusband who abused her in past and has found out he has possibly commited murder so she runs away as "an alias" to Utah to her best friend estranged aunt and uncles house. She also feels bad for lying and pretending to be someone else as she has to have her son lie also. This was a very good book and enjoyed the ending.
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July 21, 2011hi im cathy from dublin.iv just finished reading .alias. & i really enjoyed it from cover to cover. mandi decribed mona in utah so beautifully i feel iv been there. the story was gripping & different. my friend's friemd in utah posted it to her in dublin & she passed it on to me. a long journey for a book but well worth it. a really enjoyable read. would highly recommend it. well done mandi hope u write many more xx
September 4, 2011
I really wish Goodreads offered half or quarter stars...this is more of a 3.5 book, but just couldn't give it a 3, so 4 it is.
Likeable characters and a good story line that flowed well. Enough romance to keep me interested (I have discovered that no matter how good a book is, I usually don't like it as much if it doesn't have just a little bit of romance), but that wasn't the only focus of the book. Can't decide it if is a re-read candidate or not, I just might ;)
Likeable characters and a good story line that flowed well. Enough romance to keep me interested (I have discovered that no matter how good a book is, I usually don't like it as much if it doesn't have just a little bit of romance), but that wasn't the only focus of the book. Can't decide it if is a re-read candidate or not, I just might ;)
February 16, 2012
This was a quick, easy flowing read. The plot was easy and fun to follow and the characters were so down to earth and believable I felt like they could be my next door neighbors.
I could've used a bit more suspense and intensity (but I'm kind of A.D.D that way). Overall a great read.
To read my full review and an interview with the author, visit: http://stephanieworlton.blogspot.com/...
I could've used a bit more suspense and intensity (but I'm kind of A.D.D that way). Overall a great read.
To read my full review and an interview with the author, visit: http://stephanieworlton.blogspot.com/...
July 2, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. It was a good read that kept you interested in what was going to happen next. I could really see the people and areas there were at. Great job can't wait to read your next book!!!
August 5, 2011
This book was wonderful. The plot kept me reading into the wee hours of the night. The characters are endearing and it's a very clean cut book. I highly recommend this book. I look forward to reading more books from this Author.
November 12, 2011
I LOVED this book! I honestly couldn't put it down in those last few chapters! I would be reading it on my lunch break and trying to get away with clocking back in late just so I could keep reading! I'd definitely recommend this book!
November 3, 2011
I very much enjoyed reading this book. It's a good, solid story told quite effectively with no offensive language - that's rare and precious and very much appreciated by this reader. I would like to read more by Mandi Slack.
May 30, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this captivating book. Others have told of the plot, so I only wanted to add that it's, definitely, a page-turner, and I highly recommend it to anyone who's contemplating a purchase!
May 13, 2011
This was a great book exploring many important issues such as family, religion, and domestic abuse. Mandi did a great job endearing the characters to you and helping you get hooked in the book.
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