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Detective Madison Harper #2
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Oslavy čtvrtého července skončily, na oblohu, kterou v noci rozzářil ohňostroj, se vkrádá nový den a v zábavním parku Svět fantazie v Lost Creek je nalezeno tělo Nikki Jacksonové. Přivolaní policejní vyšetřovatelé usoudí, že šlo o sebevraždu – zoufalý čin mladé dívky, která ztratila veškerou naději. Nepodaří se jim ale najít nůž, který smrtelná zranění způsobil. A co znamená krvavý otisk prstu na dívčině čele? Madison Harperová se po sedmi letech vrací do Lost Creek a s pomocí Natea Monroea musí najít odpověď na řadu otázek. Kdo ji dostal do vězení za zločin, který nespáchala? Co se stalo s jejím synem? Kdo stojí za zabitím její bývalé přítelkyně? A to ještě netuší, že na tento seznam přibude také smrt Nikki Jacksonové. Vyšetřování je stále zamotanější a Madison neví, komu může věřit. Když pak konečně najde nůž, který způsobil Nikkinu smrt, uvědomí si, že se v okolí pohybuje zvrácený vrah. A je do případu skutečně zapleten i její syn, nebo je to jen další z řady lží, které na ni po návratu domů čekají?
336 pages, Hardcover
First published February 19, 2021
3060 people are currently reading
1334 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Dranfield
21 books625 followersWendy is the author of the Detective Madison Harper series. Her novels and short stories have been shortlisted and longlisted for various writing competitions and awards, including the International Thriller Writer Awards.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
February 3, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, though (per usual) I didn't read the first book first- I am bad with keeping series in order! It easily reads as a standalone, though. The story centers on Madison, who heads back to her hometown with her new boss, Nate, after being disgraced 7 years ago by being convicted of a murder she swears she didn't commit. Now her ex-girlfriend has been murdered, another murder occurs, and Madison also wants to track down her now 17-year old son. Lots going on but the author makes it easy to keep these storylines straight.
Madison and Nate were both likeable characters, and even the tertiary characters were easy to understand, even when they weren't easy to like. I don't love when police procedurals spend a ton of time on the detectives' personal lives rather than solving the crime, and this book hit that balance with giving us some insight into Madison's personal life while not overdoing it.
I had a hard time figuring out who the villain was in this book, and when I did, there were additional twists that still kept me guessing. I thought the author did a great job of tying everything together as not to leave loose ends within the investigation, but also to provide plausible connections between the various characters and situations.
Overall, this was a good book and now I need to go back and read the first one in the series. I'd recommend this to those who like mysteries and police procedurals. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Madison and Nate were both likeable characters, and even the tertiary characters were easy to understand, even when they weren't easy to like. I don't love when police procedurals spend a ton of time on the detectives' personal lives rather than solving the crime, and this book hit that balance with giving us some insight into Madison's personal life while not overdoing it.
I had a hard time figuring out who the villain was in this book, and when I did, there were additional twists that still kept me guessing. I thought the author did a great job of tying everything together as not to leave loose ends within the investigation, but also to provide plausible connections between the various characters and situations.
Overall, this was a good book and now I need to go back and read the first one in the series. I'd recommend this to those who like mysteries and police procedurals. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2022
This is the second book in the Detective Madison Harper series by author Wendy Dranfield. The lead character Madison was convicted of murder seven years ago, she has always pleaded her innocence. Now she is returning to her hometown where her ex girlfriend has been murdered. Trouble seems to be attracted to Madison. She is also eager to track down her 17 year old son who she has not seen since her conviction.
Meanwhile a teenager named Nikki Jackson is discovered dead at an amusement park with the Lost Creek police ruling her death as suicide. The absence of a knife at the scene that cut her wrists make Detective Madison Harper think differently. There is also a partial fingerprint found on the girl’s face which back up Madison’s thoughts and that someone else was with Nikki in her final moments.
I enjoyed my first taste of this series and it laid excellent foundations for future books in this series. A trouble Detective normally makes good reading and that seems to be the case with this one. I am looking forward to more from this series.
Meanwhile a teenager named Nikki Jackson is discovered dead at an amusement park with the Lost Creek police ruling her death as suicide. The absence of a knife at the scene that cut her wrists make Detective Madison Harper think differently. There is also a partial fingerprint found on the girl’s face which back up Madison’s thoughts and that someone else was with Nikki in her final moments.
I enjoyed my first taste of this series and it laid excellent foundations for future books in this series. A trouble Detective normally makes good reading and that seems to be the case with this one. I am looking forward to more from this series.
February 20, 2021
Cry for Help is the second instalment in the Detective Madison Harper series. It begins in September 2012 with Detective Harper is tending to her ten year old son, Owen, at her home in Lost Creek, Colorado, when she receives a visit from Detective Don Douglas from Lost Creek Police Department. She opens the door and is quickly handcuffed. She is being arrested for the murder of Officer Ryan Levy, whom she shared a shift with that day, a mere five days into her role as a detective. Fast forward seven years to July 5, 2019 and convicted criminal Ricky Gregor, a maintenance manager at Fantasy World amusement park in Lost Creek, finds the slumped body of a teenage girl in one of the Ferris wheel cars while cleaning. Her arms have been slit right down to the wrists and she sits in a pool of her own blood. Meanwhile, Madison, who had recently finished serving her time, receives a call from Detective Mike Bowers who informs her that her ex-girlfriend Stephanie Garcia had been killed, so she starts the journey from Northern California to Lost Creek, a journey of thirteen hundred miles, after seven years away, with six of those spent imprisoned for a manslaughter she didn't commit. But she's also heading back there to find out who framed her and why. She contacts former death row prisoner Nate Monroe who spent seventeen years inside for a murder he didn't commit and had won a large settlement when his conviction was overturned.
Nate had agreed to help her clear her name and find her son after she aided him in finding a girl missing from a summer camp. He has even given her a trial period working for him as a Private Investigator. When they arrive they get involved in the case involving the murdered teenage girl, Nikki Jackson, as she happens to be Owen's girlfriend. Can Madison and Nate get to the bottom of who and why someone framed her, who and why Stephanie was killed and exactly what happened to Nikki? This is a compulsive and scintillating procedural with an action-packed, complex plot, which features several intermingling threads, and there's never a dull moment as Dranfield keeps you on your toes. Madison and Nate's interesting backstory is fed to the reader in digestible chunks throughout so as not to overwhelm and it works well; I was fascinated with the situation Madison finds herself in and it was a refreshingly original personal story. There is certainly plenty to get your teeth into with a complex plot but it never gets confusing as it is expertly woven. I loved the mix of murder case and personal mission to discover who and why someone framed her for murder. The fact that it's told from various perspectives allows you to become more immersed in the goings-on and makes it fully rounded. This is a high-octane, edge of your seat read made all the more authentic by the research the author has carried out to make the procedures true to life. Highly recommended.
Nate had agreed to help her clear her name and find her son after she aided him in finding a girl missing from a summer camp. He has even given her a trial period working for him as a Private Investigator. When they arrive they get involved in the case involving the murdered teenage girl, Nikki Jackson, as she happens to be Owen's girlfriend. Can Madison and Nate get to the bottom of who and why someone framed her, who and why Stephanie was killed and exactly what happened to Nikki? This is a compulsive and scintillating procedural with an action-packed, complex plot, which features several intermingling threads, and there's never a dull moment as Dranfield keeps you on your toes. Madison and Nate's interesting backstory is fed to the reader in digestible chunks throughout so as not to overwhelm and it works well; I was fascinated with the situation Madison finds herself in and it was a refreshingly original personal story. There is certainly plenty to get your teeth into with a complex plot but it never gets confusing as it is expertly woven. I loved the mix of murder case and personal mission to discover who and why someone framed her for murder. The fact that it's told from various perspectives allows you to become more immersed in the goings-on and makes it fully rounded. This is a high-octane, edge of your seat read made all the more authentic by the research the author has carried out to make the procedures true to life. Highly recommended.
February 23, 2021
Oh Wendy you have done it again! I am so in love with this series I hope it never ends!
Madison and Nate return to Madison's home town in the wake of the death of her ex girlfriend. Madison knows there is more to her murder and is seeking justice whilst also wanting to seek justice for her wrongful conviction and find her son Owen. Meanwhile a teenager is found dead at the local amusement park this peeks both Nate's and Madison's interest as something isn't sitting write. For this small town to have two murders within a week they suspect there is a link but proving so is going to be difficult.
I want to sit and list all the reasons I love this book, but there are far too many and well I don't have enough time.
I loved the development of the relationship between Nate and Madison, it's refreshing to have two protagonist who aren't focusing on getting each other into bed (although I do hope they fall on love eventually). They are two people with serve trust issues which is understandable they were both framed for murders they didn't commit. However they are starting to trust each other and it's a very interesting development when that trust is momentarily broken. The reaction from both parties shows us how much they care for one another.
Madison is on a mission to clear her name, she's angry and it's exciting to read it play out. I honestly had no idea who did what and why, the twist when we find out the truth is shocking! I believe I actually gasped. It's well thought out and written, doesn't come across as some dramatised fiction, I felt it could happen to any of us.
Madisons search for Owen is heart breaker, she starts yo think she's going mad as no one seems to know anything. Revelations will ofcourse prove her right but even then i was shook I had no ides! So well done.
Nate is a bit quieter in this book compared to shadow falls however he is out of his comfort zone. I love the way the narrative of the events is in third person so we get to almost hear everyone's voices without being lost with names. The prose style is very similar to the previous book present text and flashbacks to July 4th when the teen is murdered. Her storyline with boyfriend Mason is very worth following deals with some harrowing issues.
Like I said I can write so much about why I loved this book but best thing to do is just read it ofvourse Brody the dog is still here and adds a much needed humour throughout. Probably my favourite character. So for a fantastic crime thriller, a must read if like me this is your genre. 5 stars as it ticks all my boxes crime, suspense, thriller, shock factor, not perfect but perfect they are both working on themselves character building their lives back together, interesting storyline plus no one hurts the dog!!
Madison and Nate return to Madison's home town in the wake of the death of her ex girlfriend. Madison knows there is more to her murder and is seeking justice whilst also wanting to seek justice for her wrongful conviction and find her son Owen. Meanwhile a teenager is found dead at the local amusement park this peeks both Nate's and Madison's interest as something isn't sitting write. For this small town to have two murders within a week they suspect there is a link but proving so is going to be difficult.
I want to sit and list all the reasons I love this book, but there are far too many and well I don't have enough time.
I loved the development of the relationship between Nate and Madison, it's refreshing to have two protagonist who aren't focusing on getting each other into bed (although I do hope they fall on love eventually). They are two people with serve trust issues which is understandable they were both framed for murders they didn't commit. However they are starting to trust each other and it's a very interesting development when that trust is momentarily broken. The reaction from both parties shows us how much they care for one another.
Madison is on a mission to clear her name, she's angry and it's exciting to read it play out. I honestly had no idea who did what and why, the twist when we find out the truth is shocking! I believe I actually gasped. It's well thought out and written, doesn't come across as some dramatised fiction, I felt it could happen to any of us.
Madisons search for Owen is heart breaker, she starts yo think she's going mad as no one seems to know anything. Revelations will ofcourse prove her right but even then i was shook I had no ides! So well done.
Nate is a bit quieter in this book compared to shadow falls however he is out of his comfort zone. I love the way the narrative of the events is in third person so we get to almost hear everyone's voices without being lost with names. The prose style is very similar to the previous book present text and flashbacks to July 4th when the teen is murdered. Her storyline with boyfriend Mason is very worth following deals with some harrowing issues.
Like I said I can write so much about why I loved this book but best thing to do is just read it ofvourse Brody the dog is still here and adds a much needed humour throughout. Probably my favourite character. So for a fantastic crime thriller, a must read if like me this is your genre. 5 stars as it ticks all my boxes crime, suspense, thriller, shock factor, not perfect but perfect they are both working on themselves character building their lives back together, interesting storyline plus no one hurts the dog!!
February 5, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Cry for Help, the second novel to feature former detective Madison Harper.
Madison returns to Lost Creek, Colorado for the first time since her conviction for manslaughter to find her son, Owen and look in to the murder of her former lover, Stephanie Garcia. Just before she gets there, teenager Nikki Jackson is found dead from an apparent suicide, but Madison thinks it might be murder and link to Stephanie’s.
I enjoyed Cry for Help which is a tense, action packed read with a complicated plot. It’s not complicated in the sense that it’s difficult to follow, more that it is difficult to untangle the motives and relationships between the character. There is a lot of treachery and double crossing going on and some interesting twists, although many of them are well signposted and lose a little impact as a result. The author keeps up a good pace with a steady flow of reveals and developments so there’s never a lull, and if that that weren’t enough she ratchets up the tension to keep the reader on tenterhooks. The only thing I didn’t like was there’s too much jumping to conclusions with nothing to back them up.
The novel is told from various points of view, including flashbacks to Nikki’s life before she died. It gives the reader a wider perspective and isn’t too disruptive to the flow of the narrative as Madison is the main voice.
I must admit that I thought the backstories of Madison and her boss cum friend, Nate Monroe, were a bit much in the previous novel with both of them being framed and wrongly convicted. Nate takes a back seat in this novel as it’s all about exonerating Madison and their history doesn’t weigh as heavily over the novel because they’re doing something about it.
Cry for Help is a good read that I can recommend.
Madison returns to Lost Creek, Colorado for the first time since her conviction for manslaughter to find her son, Owen and look in to the murder of her former lover, Stephanie Garcia. Just before she gets there, teenager Nikki Jackson is found dead from an apparent suicide, but Madison thinks it might be murder and link to Stephanie’s.
I enjoyed Cry for Help which is a tense, action packed read with a complicated plot. It’s not complicated in the sense that it’s difficult to follow, more that it is difficult to untangle the motives and relationships between the character. There is a lot of treachery and double crossing going on and some interesting twists, although many of them are well signposted and lose a little impact as a result. The author keeps up a good pace with a steady flow of reveals and developments so there’s never a lull, and if that that weren’t enough she ratchets up the tension to keep the reader on tenterhooks. The only thing I didn’t like was there’s too much jumping to conclusions with nothing to back them up.
The novel is told from various points of view, including flashbacks to Nikki’s life before she died. It gives the reader a wider perspective and isn’t too disruptive to the flow of the narrative as Madison is the main voice.
I must admit that I thought the backstories of Madison and her boss cum friend, Nate Monroe, were a bit much in the previous novel with both of them being framed and wrongly convicted. Nate takes a back seat in this novel as it’s all about exonerating Madison and their history doesn’t weigh as heavily over the novel because they’re doing something about it.
Cry for Help is a good read that I can recommend.
February 20, 2021
I loved the first book in this series and the second one is even better!
Madison and Nate are heading to Lost Creek to find the person who framed her for murder and to try and find her son.
When they arrive, they discover a teenage girl’s body had been found on the fairground, and it’s not clear if it was suicide or murder.
Madison is dragged into the Police station under suspicion of murdering her ex and thanks to Nate’s contacts, her attorney gets her released.
This is a fast paced crime thriller with lots going on and it really builds to an exciting conclusion.
I was pleased to see Brody the dog was still with them and he definitely helps out in this book.
I loved the way this book ended and will definitely be reading the rest of the series when they’re out.
The characters are so likeable and really make you get behind them, especially with the past that Nate and Madison have had.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Madison and Nate are heading to Lost Creek to find the person who framed her for murder and to try and find her son.
When they arrive, they discover a teenage girl’s body had been found on the fairground, and it’s not clear if it was suicide or murder.
Madison is dragged into the Police station under suspicion of murdering her ex and thanks to Nate’s contacts, her attorney gets her released.
This is a fast paced crime thriller with lots going on and it really builds to an exciting conclusion.
I was pleased to see Brody the dog was still with them and he definitely helps out in this book.
I loved the way this book ended and will definitely be reading the rest of the series when they’re out.
The characters are so likeable and really make you get behind them, especially with the past that Nate and Madison have had.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
June 11, 2024
I’m trying to clean up my Kindle so am reading free books that I’ve received over the last few years. For this book every review was either a 4 or 5 star but I have to disagree. The plot and storyline were good but to me the writing was on the amateurish side. Short sentences and many times unnecessary information. and dialogue. I was going to cut the author some slack thinking it was her first book but no, it was her second. It just didn’t draw me in and will not be reading her subsequent books.
February 20, 2021
I got up at 630 am today to finish this book! Worth it!
Madison returns to Lost Creek - desperate to prove her innocence and wrongfully convicted for her friend and fellow officer's death.
As well as the vicious murder of her ex girlfriend, Stephanie.
Nate and Brody drive her to Colorado- lending much needed support and assistance in solving the mystery.
Not to mention what happened to Madison's son?
Excellent suspense. Family drama. Twists.
Highly recommend.
Madison returns to Lost Creek - desperate to prove her innocence and wrongfully convicted for her friend and fellow officer's death.
As well as the vicious murder of her ex girlfriend, Stephanie.
Nate and Brody drive her to Colorado- lending much needed support and assistance in solving the mystery.
Not to mention what happened to Madison's son?
Excellent suspense. Family drama. Twists.
Highly recommend.
February 21, 2021
4.5 stars
Cry for help
Cry for help it’s my first book by the author and now I have to go back and read at least the first story in the series because I absolutely loved this novel.
Right from the first page, I got engrossed in this mystery and couldn’t put it down so much so that I’ve read it in one sitting.
The plot was so interesting and I needed to know what happened in the past and who is the killer now as well as why is she unfairly accused of a murder that she had nothing to do with her.
I enjoyed the family drama and even the dog help that played a big part in the story.
Twisted and gripping, a must read crime thriller that many lovers of the genre will enjoy.
Cry for help
Cry for help it’s my first book by the author and now I have to go back and read at least the first story in the series because I absolutely loved this novel.
Right from the first page, I got engrossed in this mystery and couldn’t put it down so much so that I’ve read it in one sitting.
The plot was so interesting and I needed to know what happened in the past and who is the killer now as well as why is she unfairly accused of a murder that she had nothing to do with her.
I enjoyed the family drama and even the dog help that played a big part in the story.
Twisted and gripping, a must read crime thriller that many lovers of the genre will enjoy.
August 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 10, 2021
6 words is all that's necessary for this review --> WHEN IS BOOK 3 COMING OUT?
Aboslutely LOVED everything about this second book the Madison Harper series. Kept me guessing right up to the end. Non-stop from page one.
This is a must read series!
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for the opportunity to read another great book by #wendydranfield.
Aboslutely LOVED everything about this second book the Madison Harper series. Kept me guessing right up to the end. Non-stop from page one.
This is a must read series!
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for the opportunity to read another great book by #wendydranfield.
March 4, 2021
Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Shadow Falls, the first in the Detective Madison Harper series, I jumped at the chance to read Cry For Help. It’s just as good as the first one; having teamed up, united in their anger against corrupt police officers, Nate Monroe and Madison are back in Madison’s old home town of Lost Creek, called back by the shocking murder of Madison’s ex-girlfriend. Before they even arrive there’s a second death, though, a sixteen-year-old girl, and Madison can’t help but suspect it has to be connected.
Nate has less of a part to play in this story, and I did feel the lack somewhat, because I got to really like him in Shadow Falls. This is very much the story of Madison’s vindication and reunion with her son, though, as well as really filling in all the details on her background, so I suspect the next book is likely to return to Nate’s story.
I think it would be possible to read this without having first read Shadow Falls; enough backstory is given to thread the stories together, but I would definitely recommend reading Shadow Falls first as Nate doesn’t come off all that sympathetic a character in this one. Having really got to know him in the first book I felt more accepting of his actions as they made sense considering his backstory. Former cadaver dog Brody also gets a significant part to play here, and I like the bond developing between him, Nate and Madison.
I’m interested to see what’s next for this group. It seems apparent that Madison now has incentive to stay in Lost Creek, but will Nate? She’s gained the ability to help him now in ways she couldn’t before, to pay him back, so maybe he’ll stick around, but I quite liked the ‘travelling investigators’ aspect of the story. We’ll see how things change, but I’ll definitely be looking out for the next book in the series, because I’m really enjoying it. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
Nate has less of a part to play in this story, and I did feel the lack somewhat, because I got to really like him in Shadow Falls. This is very much the story of Madison’s vindication and reunion with her son, though, as well as really filling in all the details on her background, so I suspect the next book is likely to return to Nate’s story.
I think it would be possible to read this without having first read Shadow Falls; enough backstory is given to thread the stories together, but I would definitely recommend reading Shadow Falls first as Nate doesn’t come off all that sympathetic a character in this one. Having really got to know him in the first book I felt more accepting of his actions as they made sense considering his backstory. Former cadaver dog Brody also gets a significant part to play here, and I like the bond developing between him, Nate and Madison.
I’m interested to see what’s next for this group. It seems apparent that Madison now has incentive to stay in Lost Creek, but will Nate? She’s gained the ability to help him now in ways she couldn’t before, to pay him back, so maybe he’ll stick around, but I quite liked the ‘travelling investigators’ aspect of the story. We’ll see how things change, but I’ll definitely be looking out for the next book in the series, because I’m really enjoying it. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
February 23, 2021
Wow did things get crazy when Madison and Nate returned to Lost Creek, Colorado. Madison knew she was framed seven years ago for murder but she had no idea of how high the corruption went and how close to home the evil really was.
When I say this was crazy it was crazy. Don't want to give away too much but by the end the body counts are high and shocking reveals are made. All of those responsible for Madison's wrongful conviction are dealt justice in one form or another.
Now that Madison's past has been avenged its time for Nate to finally get his for his wrongful conviction and 17 years on death row. Hope its not to long before the next book.
When I say this was crazy it was crazy. Don't want to give away too much but by the end the body counts are high and shocking reveals are made. All of those responsible for Madison's wrongful conviction are dealt justice in one form or another.
Now that Madison's past has been avenged its time for Nate to finally get his for his wrongful conviction and 17 years on death row. Hope its not to long before the next book.
January 8, 2021
This book was fantastic, I loved book one in the series and this was just as good or even better. It was so full of tension and angst it really kept me wanting to read more. I sat down to read this with my breakfast and didn’t stop until I had finished, I was completely invested in the story. I really enjoyed this book it is totally worthy of 5 stars.
February 7, 2021
Cry for Help by Wendy Dranfield is the 2nd book in the Detective Madison Harper mystery series, and another great addition. I enjoyed book one, Shadow Falls: Find My Child so much, that I started reading this book right away. I have definitely found a new author to enjoy. Two people who were falsely imprisoned for murders they did not commit, are now working together as unlicensed private investigators. Nate was on death row, and won a large settlement after his conviction was overturned. Nate now helps other people, and he hates policemen. Madison, a former police officer, asks Nate for help to see who framed her. Madison agrees to help Nate, solve a missing girl case, the first book. Now they are in Colorado to find out who set Madison up. I loved this book with it's non stop action, and range of emotions it brings out. I strongly recommend this book/series if you enjoy a good mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 24, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Cry For Help' by Wendy Dranfield.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 22nd February 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and it is also the second book in her 'Detective Madison Harper' series.This book can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is for fans of Melinda Leigh who I am a MASSIVE fan of so am looking forward to see if it loves up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 72 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Detective Madison Harper, Nate and Detective Mike Bowers. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
This books is very well written with vivid descriptions creating the perfect atmosphere for the storyline. The book cover and synopsis works perfectly with the book plot and I am most definitely looking forward to reading the next book, and the previous one in this series.
An addictive and compelling storyline which had many layers of mysteries and crimes for the reader to be kept guessing throughout. Filled with twists, turns, shocks and red herrings throughout I had no idea who did what until the end. This is an achievement in itself as it is definitely getting harder to surprise me with the amount of crime novels I've read. The plot was unique and realistic. It started straight in the action and kept you going on a roller-coaster ride of suspension throughout. The timeline jumped from present to past at just the right times slowly drip feeding the reader information on what happened in just the right amount.
I loved the fact that the main lead was such a strong female with alot of background and yet having gone through so much and still going through so much Madison still didn't back down!! I cannot wait to read what happens next with her. I also enjoyed Nates character but of course being an animal lover my favourite has to be Brody!!! All the characters were strong and well defined. I was shocked by some of them and nicely surprised by others. I am looking forward to seeing if anything happens between Nate and Madison. I enjoyed that the author gave just the right amount of background information on the characters to let us know about them for it to be a standalone but not too much so if you've read the first book your not going over the same information too much.
Overall a pulse racing, addictive page turning crime thriller thay will keep you on edge.
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Melissa Leigh, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
339 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#CryForHelp#Bookouture #WendyDranfield #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
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Review for 'Cry For Help' by Wendy Dranfield.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 22nd February 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and it is also the second book in her 'Detective Madison Harper' series.This book can be read as a standalone.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is for fans of Melinda Leigh who I am a MASSIVE fan of so am looking forward to see if it loves up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 72 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Detective Madison Harper, Nate and Detective Mike Bowers. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
This books is very well written with vivid descriptions creating the perfect atmosphere for the storyline. The book cover and synopsis works perfectly with the book plot and I am most definitely looking forward to reading the next book, and the previous one in this series.
An addictive and compelling storyline which had many layers of mysteries and crimes for the reader to be kept guessing throughout. Filled with twists, turns, shocks and red herrings throughout I had no idea who did what until the end. This is an achievement in itself as it is definitely getting harder to surprise me with the amount of crime novels I've read. The plot was unique and realistic. It started straight in the action and kept you going on a roller-coaster ride of suspension throughout. The timeline jumped from present to past at just the right times slowly drip feeding the reader information on what happened in just the right amount.
I loved the fact that the main lead was such a strong female with alot of background and yet having gone through so much and still going through so much Madison still didn't back down!! I cannot wait to read what happens next with her. I also enjoyed Nates character but of course being an animal lover my favourite has to be Brody!!! All the characters were strong and well defined. I was shocked by some of them and nicely surprised by others. I am looking forward to seeing if anything happens between Nate and Madison. I enjoyed that the author gave just the right amount of background information on the characters to let us know about them for it to be a standalone but not too much so if you've read the first book your not going over the same information too much.
Overall a pulse racing, addictive page turning crime thriller thay will keep you on edge.
Genres covered in this novel include Crime, Police Procedural, Crime Thriller and Mystery amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Melissa Leigh, Angela Marsons, C. L Taylor, Carol Wyer and anyone looking for a great new series.
339 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#CryForHelp#Bookouture #WendyDranfield #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@WendyDranfield @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
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February 21, 2021
My emotions are all over the place! I have spent most of this book, reading with baited breathe as we finally find out what happened to Madison, I was even crying through some of it! Some of the events clicked into place before Madison and Nate got there but some didn’t until the final showdown. Boy, this was cataclysmic, the shock waves will take a while to die down with this one.
I have felt so much anger for Madison and the injustice she has had to experience. I was so angry with what happened and the repercussions left me empty. I felt angry for one character, even though she was innocent, as there was just no fight, in the end, it was all too bleak for her and it was hard to see how freely her decision was made. I just wanted to jump in and help in some way.
This really is one intense book, again with the timelines, of Nikki’s past and the present day but given this time the insight into other characters add to the intensity. We see just how deep deception can run, how one bad mistake can lead you down a dark path with no way of getting off the track. The manipulation of people and the fear that someone can hold over your life can be crippling and sadly it plays a part here.
So much I want to talk about but I have to gloss it over. I didn’t read the blurb so I had no idea what was to come, I just knew it would be good. It was better than good, it was mind-blowing, it was breathtaking and it shocked me. I was lying there with my hand over my mouth trying to read the words quicker as I was soaking up the information in front of me. The plot is like a spaghetti junction with so much going on and so much interlinking, however, none of it was convoluted, it all made sense and was easy to follow. However, I did not like the path we were going on.
God, this series is just phenomenal and I love that there are potentially at least 5 books in this series. I am not sure how it will pan out now but I just know Nate and Madison need to stick together. I know everything is up in the air but I need them to stick out in the long run. I mean we still have Nate’s storyline to go yet and as much as this one was emotional, I fear it will be worse with Nate.
This is a book I could not put down and in all honesty, I did not want to put it down. It blew me away. I can not wait for the next one for sure. Wendy astounds me each time I read something of hers and she confuddled me again. What a read!!
I have felt so much anger for Madison and the injustice she has had to experience. I was so angry with what happened and the repercussions left me empty. I felt angry for one character, even though she was innocent, as there was just no fight, in the end, it was all too bleak for her and it was hard to see how freely her decision was made. I just wanted to jump in and help in some way.
This really is one intense book, again with the timelines, of Nikki’s past and the present day but given this time the insight into other characters add to the intensity. We see just how deep deception can run, how one bad mistake can lead you down a dark path with no way of getting off the track. The manipulation of people and the fear that someone can hold over your life can be crippling and sadly it plays a part here.
So much I want to talk about but I have to gloss it over. I didn’t read the blurb so I had no idea what was to come, I just knew it would be good. It was better than good, it was mind-blowing, it was breathtaking and it shocked me. I was lying there with my hand over my mouth trying to read the words quicker as I was soaking up the information in front of me. The plot is like a spaghetti junction with so much going on and so much interlinking, however, none of it was convoluted, it all made sense and was easy to follow. However, I did not like the path we were going on.
God, this series is just phenomenal and I love that there are potentially at least 5 books in this series. I am not sure how it will pan out now but I just know Nate and Madison need to stick together. I know everything is up in the air but I need them to stick out in the long run. I mean we still have Nate’s storyline to go yet and as much as this one was emotional, I fear it will be worse with Nate.
This is a book I could not put down and in all honesty, I did not want to put it down. It blew me away. I can not wait for the next one for sure. Wendy astounds me each time I read something of hers and she confuddled me again. What a read!!
January 10, 2021
Yes, yes, yes! Highly anticipated book! It did not disappoint, not at all. Back on the road with Madison, Nate, and Brody, and it’s a bumpy road for sure. Madison is back in her hometown, the hometown that turned its back at her. And... she is not welcomed back. Things immediately take several bad turns, and it’s a big mess. Madison is however determined to right the wrongs, and to prove she was set up. The town is upset by what seems to be a suicide, a murder, and Madison’s comeback. I read it in one sitting, because there really was no other option.
I love it! So many people I despise, a great lead character with a terrific backstory, and old secrets. What’s not to like? Madison’s family is way more messed up than I could ever have imagined. It just makes the story so much more special. I can’t even begin to imagine what someone like her have gone through in life. She’s not even fueled with revenge, she just wants to find out the truth, and for the people behind it all to face the truth. She also wants her son back. Powerful!
If I would have to sum this book up in one word it would be superb. Luckily I don’t have to stick to one word, because one simple word could never give justice to this book. It’s well-written, has so many angles and twists, and it’s pretty close to being perfect! Much respect! I hope this series continues forever. This thrilling and extraordinary book should be read by every detective book lover. Can’t wait for the next one. Madison is a winner, and so is Wendy!
I love it! So many people I despise, a great lead character with a terrific backstory, and old secrets. What’s not to like? Madison’s family is way more messed up than I could ever have imagined. It just makes the story so much more special. I can’t even begin to imagine what someone like her have gone through in life. She’s not even fueled with revenge, she just wants to find out the truth, and for the people behind it all to face the truth. She also wants her son back. Powerful!
If I would have to sum this book up in one word it would be superb. Luckily I don’t have to stick to one word, because one simple word could never give justice to this book. It’s well-written, has so many angles and twists, and it’s pretty close to being perfect! Much respect! I hope this series continues forever. This thrilling and extraordinary book should be read by every detective book lover. Can’t wait for the next one. Madison is a winner, and so is Wendy!
February 25, 2021
I have been so looking forward to reading this book since I finished book one. Again this is a brilliant read, I really enjoyed it. Brilliantly written. Fast paced. Edgy. Tension. Suspense. A real page turner.
In book two we see Madison returning to her hometown in order to find out who set her up for her sentence and prison time, but also to find her son. But it will never be as easy as that right? With two suspicious deaths ongoing in her hometown is now the right time to return or will she end up in more trouble than before?
It's a gripping read! I needed all the answers myself and I finally got them. So happy for Madison at the end of this book I hope life starts to look up for her. Ofcourse her co worker is alongside her with every step and I hope we get to know more about him in the next book! Loved it all. Cannot wait for book three already. Hurry up!! Highly recommend. A well deserved four stars from me. A perfect series.
In book two we see Madison returning to her hometown in order to find out who set her up for her sentence and prison time, but also to find her son. But it will never be as easy as that right? With two suspicious deaths ongoing in her hometown is now the right time to return or will she end up in more trouble than before?
It's a gripping read! I needed all the answers myself and I finally got them. So happy for Madison at the end of this book I hope life starts to look up for her. Ofcourse her co worker is alongside her with every step and I hope we get to know more about him in the next book! Loved it all. Cannot wait for book three already. Hurry up!! Highly recommend. A well deserved four stars from me. A perfect series.
January 10, 2021
A can’t put down book!
Cry For Help by Wendy Dranfield is certainly a enthralling read.
There is so much going on, you don’t have time to stop reading. I read late into to the night because I just had to know what the ending was going to be.
The main characters, Madison, takes you on a roller coaster ride of suspense and thrills. . Her backstory is heartbreaking to read about.
If you are a fan of police procedurals, you definitely will like this book.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! And, get more books written by Wendy Dranfield.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author,Wendy Dranfield, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
Cry For Help by Wendy Dranfield is certainly a enthralling read.
There is so much going on, you don’t have time to stop reading. I read late into to the night because I just had to know what the ending was going to be.
The main characters, Madison, takes you on a roller coaster ride of suspense and thrills. . Her backstory is heartbreaking to read about.
If you are a fan of police procedurals, you definitely will like this book.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! And, get more books written by Wendy Dranfield.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author,Wendy Dranfield, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 16, 2021
Wow wow wow I loved this book and can’t believe I now have to wait to find out what happens next. I am really not very patient so hope it’s not long! This story follows Madison and Nate as they head back to her home town to try and find out who framed her for murder and what happened to her son whilst she was in jail. After her ex girlfriend is murdered she is yet again arrested in a town that doesn’t want her there and is now fighting to prove she is innocent again and yes not knowing who she can trust and who and why they are after her?
July 25, 2021
The main story in this book is about a teenage girl found dead at the Colorado amusement park where she works. It's not clear whether it's murder or suicide, but since this takes place at the beginning of the book, it makes the later flashback told from the young woman's point-of-view even more heartbreaking since the reader knows she won't have time to make her dreams come true.
This is the second book in the series and the two private investigators who are the main characters of the series have also had heartbreak in their lives. Each was falsely accused and sentenced to prison for crimes they didn't commit. This has had ripple effects in the lives of those close to them. The ending is satisfying in spite of a lot of violence. This book is really good, but I suggest reading the first one beforehand. The individual case stands on its own, but the story arc involving Madison and Nate is better if you have read the prior book. I can't wait for the next book in the series to see what is in store for Madison and Nate.
This is the second book in the series and the two private investigators who are the main characters of the series have also had heartbreak in their lives. Each was falsely accused and sentenced to prison for crimes they didn't commit. This has had ripple effects in the lives of those close to them. The ending is satisfying in spite of a lot of violence. This book is really good, but I suggest reading the first one beforehand. The individual case stands on its own, but the story arc involving Madison and Nate is better if you have read the prior book. I can't wait for the next book in the series to see what is in store for Madison and Nate.
June 4, 2024
This book kept me gripped right to the very end and I loved that it had nice short chapters.
February 7, 2021
Book 2 in the series, starring Madison and Nate. You can read this book as a standalone but I would suggest you read book 1 because (a) it is a fabulous book and (b) you will get a greater depth of understanding of what makes these two tick.
Madison and Nate make their way to Madison's home town. The place where she was falsely accused of murder. The last place she saw her son. The place where her ex-partner died violently. To say that Madison is dreading going back to Lost Creek, is an understatement. She has to though, to get some answers.
There is SO much going on in this book, I don't quite know where to start. So many threads that the author spins and twists and pulls together beautifully.
Skilfully woven tale that is not for the faint of heart, it is very confronting at times and you need a strong stomach for some parts of it, for sure!
I thoroughly enjoyed it and I can't wait until the next book in the series. I feel like this series is just getting warmed up :)
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Madison and Nate make their way to Madison's home town. The place where she was falsely accused of murder. The last place she saw her son. The place where her ex-partner died violently. To say that Madison is dreading going back to Lost Creek, is an understatement. She has to though, to get some answers.
There is SO much going on in this book, I don't quite know where to start. So many threads that the author spins and twists and pulls together beautifully.
Skilfully woven tale that is not for the faint of heart, it is very confronting at times and you need a strong stomach for some parts of it, for sure!
I thoroughly enjoyed it and I can't wait until the next book in the series. I feel like this series is just getting warmed up :)
5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
February 22, 2021
Thrilling, tense and addictive. A transporting and absolutely brilliant read. So glad I discovered this author and this series. Each book gets better and better. I am absolutely hooked. After the perfection that is this book cannot wait for the next in this amazing series.
January 15, 2022
Very good series. Off to book three.
February 20, 2021
Be ready to loose sleep as you stay up all night to dive head first into this rollercoaster ride of a story!
This is the second book in the series and picks up right where the last one finishes. Madison and Nate are on their way to Madisons home town, but what horrors await her when she arrives?
This is a fast paced, well written story that you just can’t put down. Secrets are unravelled as you progress and you won’t see the many twists coming.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, but I have to say this one is even better, it pulled me in and didn’t let go until the early hours of the morning!
What I also loved about it was how being the second book in the series, it didn’t waste time recapping everything like so many books do, it presumes you have read the first and jumps straight into the next adventure as though you were just starting a new chapter.
I can definitely see this series continuing and can’t wait to see where the lives of Madison and Nate head.
Well done Wendy Dranfield, such a fantastic follow up to Shadow Falls, can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and most importantly the author, for the chance to read this book, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the series and picks up right where the last one finishes. Madison and Nate are on their way to Madisons home town, but what horrors await her when she arrives?
This is a fast paced, well written story that you just can’t put down. Secrets are unravelled as you progress and you won’t see the many twists coming.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this series, but I have to say this one is even better, it pulled me in and didn’t let go until the early hours of the morning!
What I also loved about it was how being the second book in the series, it didn’t waste time recapping everything like so many books do, it presumes you have read the first and jumps straight into the next adventure as though you were just starting a new chapter.
I can definitely see this series continuing and can’t wait to see where the lives of Madison and Nate head.
Well done Wendy Dranfield, such a fantastic follow up to Shadow Falls, can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and most importantly the author, for the chance to read this book, in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Cry for Help is the second title in the Detective Madison Harper series, and if possible, this story kept me even more involved with Madison and Nate as they once again work together to solve a heinous crime, but also discover more about the past as well. I wasn’t expecting the series to get this increasingly intense with each story, yet the search for the truth of Nikki’s murder, the links found, and the personal revolutions for Madison kept me captured as I read this one long after I should have been asleep.
I try to give away even less about the core of a story when it’s a Mystery – that genre you should really be discovering clues and experiencing the mystery for yourself firsthand. Yet, all you really need to do before purchasing is read that cover description blurb to know that this is going to be an amazing journey to find a killer and answers.
While I’m a firm believer in reading any series from the beginning, if at all possible, Cry for Help could stand on its own in many ways as the reader is given enough background within the dialogue and narrative to fill in the major points necessary – I still believe you’d get more involved and have a deeper understanding of the characters if you’ve read Shadow Falls first… but that’s only an opinion, you do what works for you.
As Madison and Nate return to her hometown after learning of the death of someone once close to Madison, they’ll also be facing down the same police department that turned on Madison years ago, years spent in prison and having her son, Owen, placed in the foster care system. While Madison is still searching for her son, coming home isn’t the easiest thing she’s done but it’s necessary if she’s ever to find the answers she seeks.
There are connections in Cry for Help that will slowly be revealed, with lots of twists and turns along the way with the occasional red herring tossed in as well. This is a gripping, gritty Mystery/Suspense story, one that often asks more questions than we have answers for… yet. The action begins almost immediately, the killer is vicious and devious, the clues lead to unexpected places, there is the feeling of something just out of view waiting to pounce upon the reader as well. I was completely engaged in Madison’s return to her hometown. (as a side note: don’t read this in the wee small hours of the morning, in a quiet house if you have a cat – just take my word on that, talk about jumping out of my own skin! -thanks, Leia.)
We’re introduced to additional characters and it will be interesting to see if any will be in the next Detective Madison Harper novel – and I do need the next one, right now. This is a truly addictive series that can easily take over your imagination and your need to know more.
This review is vague on purpose (I ended up deleting about a third of this review as I was starting to tell the story and that is not allowed in my reviews). So, yes, this is a story that I easily got caught up in, that I wanted to talk about (but couldn’t), and I’m anxiously awaiting word on when the third story will be revealed to a now dedicated reader of this series. If you love a really good, chilling Mystery/Suspense story then you’ll want to pick up Cry for Help right now. You won’t regret it.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Bookouture via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Cry for Help is the second title in the Detective Madison Harper series, and if possible, this story kept me even more involved with Madison and Nate as they once again work together to solve a heinous crime, but also discover more about the past as well. I wasn’t expecting the series to get this increasingly intense with each story, yet the search for the truth of Nikki’s murder, the links found, and the personal revolutions for Madison kept me captured as I read this one long after I should have been asleep.
I try to give away even less about the core of a story when it’s a Mystery – that genre you should really be discovering clues and experiencing the mystery for yourself firsthand. Yet, all you really need to do before purchasing is read that cover description blurb to know that this is going to be an amazing journey to find a killer and answers.
While I’m a firm believer in reading any series from the beginning, if at all possible, Cry for Help could stand on its own in many ways as the reader is given enough background within the dialogue and narrative to fill in the major points necessary – I still believe you’d get more involved and have a deeper understanding of the characters if you’ve read Shadow Falls first… but that’s only an opinion, you do what works for you.
As Madison and Nate return to her hometown after learning of the death of someone once close to Madison, they’ll also be facing down the same police department that turned on Madison years ago, years spent in prison and having her son, Owen, placed in the foster care system. While Madison is still searching for her son, coming home isn’t the easiest thing she’s done but it’s necessary if she’s ever to find the answers she seeks.
There are connections in Cry for Help that will slowly be revealed, with lots of twists and turns along the way with the occasional red herring tossed in as well. This is a gripping, gritty Mystery/Suspense story, one that often asks more questions than we have answers for… yet. The action begins almost immediately, the killer is vicious and devious, the clues lead to unexpected places, there is the feeling of something just out of view waiting to pounce upon the reader as well. I was completely engaged in Madison’s return to her hometown. (as a side note: don’t read this in the wee small hours of the morning, in a quiet house if you have a cat – just take my word on that, talk about jumping out of my own skin! -thanks, Leia.)
We’re introduced to additional characters and it will be interesting to see if any will be in the next Detective Madison Harper novel – and I do need the next one, right now. This is a truly addictive series that can easily take over your imagination and your need to know more.
This review is vague on purpose (I ended up deleting about a third of this review as I was starting to tell the story and that is not allowed in my reviews). So, yes, this is a story that I easily got caught up in, that I wanted to talk about (but couldn’t), and I’m anxiously awaiting word on when the third story will be revealed to a now dedicated reader of this series. If you love a really good, chilling Mystery/Suspense story then you’ll want to pick up Cry for Help right now. You won’t regret it.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Bookouture via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
February 14, 2021
I had really enjoyed reading 'Shadow Falls', the first book in the Detective Madison Harper series by Wendy Dranfield, so as soon as I finished that I immediately started 'Cry for Help'. The second book kicks off exactly where book one ends and so I recommend reading the books in order.
Madison has arrived back at her hometown after a long absence which she spent in prison for a crime she didn't commit. But she's not given an exactly warm welcome back, neither by her ex colleagues nor by the people in town. Everyone believes her to be a cold-blooded killer.
She's back with Nate, her boss and private investigator, who's helping her find out the identity of the person who had framed her. But she's also back to find her son and to investigate the murder of her ex-girlfriend, Stephanie. However, Madison is no longer a detective, she has to leave the work to the local police, her ex-colleagues whom she doesn't trust. So she embarks on her own investigation. But how can she and Nate prove her innocence?
As soon as Madison arrives back in town, a teenage girl is found dead at the local amusement park. Everything points to an open-and-shut suicide case, but certain facts indicate possible suspicious circumstances. Someone was with the girl when she died or soon after. Someone knows what happened to her. But who? And what? Was it an assisted suicide perhaps? Or murder?
Well, there's a lot going on in this book and I found myself fully absorbed in the plot and entertained for hours. A myriad questions invaded my mind. I wanted to know who had framed Madison. Who killed Stephanie. And why. What happened to Madison's son? Was the girl at the amusement park murdered or had she had enough of her short sad life?
The plot is fast paced and suspenseful from start to finish. The author's writing crisp and full of vivid descriptions. Even though we have a number of different sub-plots and investigations going on: Stephanie's murder, the girl's death, the whereabouts of Madison's son and the search for the identity of the person who had framed Madison, the plot is not confusing at all. And that shows this author's skill in seamlessly taking the reader on a complex, intriguing, breath-taking journey full of twists and turns, surprises and red herrings and keep them entertained throughout. The ending made me wince and gasp... literally!
I thought book one in the series was great, but I enjoyed this one even more. It is a fabulous thriller and I highly recommend it! Well done to the author and huge thanks to Bookouture for an ARC of this book.
Madison has arrived back at her hometown after a long absence which she spent in prison for a crime she didn't commit. But she's not given an exactly warm welcome back, neither by her ex colleagues nor by the people in town. Everyone believes her to be a cold-blooded killer.
She's back with Nate, her boss and private investigator, who's helping her find out the identity of the person who had framed her. But she's also back to find her son and to investigate the murder of her ex-girlfriend, Stephanie. However, Madison is no longer a detective, she has to leave the work to the local police, her ex-colleagues whom she doesn't trust. So she embarks on her own investigation. But how can she and Nate prove her innocence?
As soon as Madison arrives back in town, a teenage girl is found dead at the local amusement park. Everything points to an open-and-shut suicide case, but certain facts indicate possible suspicious circumstances. Someone was with the girl when she died or soon after. Someone knows what happened to her. But who? And what? Was it an assisted suicide perhaps? Or murder?
Well, there's a lot going on in this book and I found myself fully absorbed in the plot and entertained for hours. A myriad questions invaded my mind. I wanted to know who had framed Madison. Who killed Stephanie. And why. What happened to Madison's son? Was the girl at the amusement park murdered or had she had enough of her short sad life?
The plot is fast paced and suspenseful from start to finish. The author's writing crisp and full of vivid descriptions. Even though we have a number of different sub-plots and investigations going on: Stephanie's murder, the girl's death, the whereabouts of Madison's son and the search for the identity of the person who had framed Madison, the plot is not confusing at all. And that shows this author's skill in seamlessly taking the reader on a complex, intriguing, breath-taking journey full of twists and turns, surprises and red herrings and keep them entertained throughout. The ending made me wince and gasp... literally!
I thought book one in the series was great, but I enjoyed this one even more. It is a fabulous thriller and I highly recommend it! Well done to the author and huge thanks to Bookouture for an ARC of this book.
March 13, 2021
Former cop Madison Harper returns to her hometown to find her son and clear her name. Her former lover has been murdered and she has inherited the house but she is distinctly unwelcome. The police are investigating the suspected suicide of a teenager at the fairground but Madison soon suspects there is a link between the murders.
Cry For Help was a totally compelling read and I am sooooo annoyed that I have missed the first in the series to feature Madison. However, this felt like the first book so I can't imagine what was included in Shadow Falls. There were no spoilers and this first book goes straight to the top of my reading list.
Corruption is rife and Madison has no idea who she can trust. She has been in prison for years, sentenced for a murder she did not commit. Now she has teamed up with her private investigator employer Nate who was also falsely convicted. She is determined to clear her own name but this is soon surpassed by the need to protect her son. She hasn't seen him since her conviction but he is now the lead suspect in the teen's murder.
Most of the plot is delivered in the third person narrative in the present day. However some chapters are written from the day of Nikki's murder so we see the build up to her final moments. The effect of this is to make us root for Madison and Nate even more as they strive to find the truth.
There are plenty of suspects and the author cleverly misdirects the reader to keep us guessing. Some of the descriptions are a little grisly but did not feel out of place due to the momentum of the plot.
Cry For Help was an excellent thriller with strong lead characters and a gripping plot. I LOVED it!
Cry For Help was a totally compelling read and I am sooooo annoyed that I have missed the first in the series to feature Madison. However, this felt like the first book so I can't imagine what was included in Shadow Falls. There were no spoilers and this first book goes straight to the top of my reading list.
Corruption is rife and Madison has no idea who she can trust. She has been in prison for years, sentenced for a murder she did not commit. Now she has teamed up with her private investigator employer Nate who was also falsely convicted. She is determined to clear her own name but this is soon surpassed by the need to protect her son. She hasn't seen him since her conviction but he is now the lead suspect in the teen's murder.
Most of the plot is delivered in the third person narrative in the present day. However some chapters are written from the day of Nikki's murder so we see the build up to her final moments. The effect of this is to make us root for Madison and Nate even more as they strive to find the truth.
There are plenty of suspects and the author cleverly misdirects the reader to keep us guessing. Some of the descriptions are a little grisly but did not feel out of place due to the momentum of the plot.
Cry For Help was an excellent thriller with strong lead characters and a gripping plot. I LOVED it!
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