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Whitecliff Bay mysteries #2
The One Who Was Taken
In the darkness, the girl slumps against the rough tree bark. Her eyes are closed, her wrists tied. As consciousness fades, her last thought is of her best friend, and how much she regrets what she did... Seventeen-year-old best friends Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing . Distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again... Fifteen years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden. Is her attacker sending a message? Why now, after all this time? In the small town of Whitecliff, people have long memories - but Millie is the only one who can help get answers. And, as she asks questions of their school friends, she realises one of them knows more than they should about her own family secrets... Not knowing who to trust, and knowing Nicola's kidnapper is still out there, Millie must ask: how far will they go to keep the truth buried forever? Fans of Faith Martin, Ann Cleeves and LJ Ross won't be able to put down this addictive mystery read set in the small seaside town of Whitecliff, where nothing is as it seems.
- GenresCozy Mystery
276 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2023
370 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Wilkinson
67 books1,073 followersRecent and upcoming UK releases:
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
June 15, 2023
This second installment is several months after the end of the first installment. Millie is still operating her dog grooming business and still getting one-star reviews from people who don’t like her and have never used her dog grooming service. I love how Wilkinson scatters one-star google reviews (not all for Millie’s business) throughout the story. Some of them are hilarious depictions of the irrational people who leave stupid one-star reviews, or as Millie calls them, Nutters. Millie is still volunteering at the retirement center, and she’s also started assisting Guy, her Godfather, with his blog by writing some articles regarding local events and issues.
The book summary introduces the premise for the primary storyline, so I’m not going to repeat it here. I do want to clear up something in the book summary that was misrepresented. The book summary says that 15yrs had transpired between what happened to Nicola and the present. The book mentions, a few times, that it’s been more than 20yrs between the incident and the present day. However, it has been more than 15yrs since Nicola and Millie have spoken, but that’s because when Millie and Nicola were 22, Millie caught Nicola having sex with Millie’s father and that the affair had been going on for a while. So, I just wanted to clear that up. I like to do that when book summaries are inaccurate.
There is also a secondary storyline about how Millie’s ex-husband, Alex, and his fiancé, Rachel, are trying to restrict Millie’s son, Eric, from calling Millie most evenings; Eric loves talking to Millie and being able to say goodnight to her. Unfortunately, Millie is still allowing Alex, and Rachel, to bully her. Good grief!!! I can’t stand those two, and don’t even get me started on what Alex is hiding. He’s just a HUMUNGOUS @$$#*!% OMG!!! I wish Millie would stand up to them and quit being a target for their anger over their miserable lives. Uuuggghhh!!! For obvious reasons, I HATE THIS STORYLINE!!!
Anyway, now that I got that out of my system, there is another secondary storyline about an old schoolmate of Millie’s, Will, who is currently being evicted, along with his housemates, from their small, run-down, older, affordable home, even though the landlord refuses to fix anything and the tenants pay their rent every month, on time. Will has asked Guy to do a story on how rich Boomers are buying up all the land in the area, evicting poor Millennial residents (Will is a poor Millennial resident) and workers from the small and affordable housing and tearing them down to build humungous mansions that sit empty for most of the year.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation into what happened to Nicola 20yrs ago, the night that she was abducted. It was interesting learning about Millie as a teenager as she reminisced about that time in her life and telling Guy about what she was like. Guy got cut off from her when she was younger and never got the chance to be a good Godfather, so he too likes hearing about her growing up years. A couple of the stories were also really funny. The end came pretty quick and what happened to Nicola was revealed in such a random and uneventful way. It was kind of sad but satisfying and yet hopeful.
This definitely allows Wilkinson to open up Millie’s world a little bit and take the story in some different directions. This story was a good portrayal of how our realities of a certain event, or a particular period of our lives change over time. In other words, the way we saw our lives and relationships when we were teenagers and 20-somethings, can be so very different than the way we see that time when we’re much older.
I also enjoyed the author’s notes at the end. I don’t know if a lot of other readers read these, but I always do. So often, the author will share personal notes, feelings and/or memories or personal stories. I liked Wilkinson’s memories of what his life was like being a teenager in the 80’s; VERY different than what a teenager's life is like now. There’s something to be said for British humor. I have no freaking idea of what it is that should be said, but something should definitely be said about it😊
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Helen Keeley, and her British accent were quite lovely to listen to. I love the way she expertly delivered the snappy and sometimes snarky remarks, from mostly Millie and occasionally Guy. She kind of reminded me of Angèle Masters who narrates the Veronica Speedwell series and is a phenomenal narrator. Some may think that it may not be that hard to narrate an audiobook, but they would be wrong. It really takes a special kind of talent to be good at it. With Kindle Unlimited, I will often have the option to listen to the audiobook or read the Kindle edition. I can confirm that there have been some narrators that I have found sooo awful to listen to, I will close the audiobook and only read the Kindle edition. JMHO
The book summary introduces the premise for the primary storyline, so I’m not going to repeat it here. I do want to clear up something in the book summary that was misrepresented. The book summary says that 15yrs had transpired between what happened to Nicola and the present. The book mentions, a few times, that it’s been more than 20yrs between the incident and the present day. However, it has been more than 15yrs since Nicola and Millie have spoken, but that’s because when Millie and Nicola were 22, Millie caught Nicola having sex with Millie’s father and that the affair had been going on for a while. So, I just wanted to clear that up. I like to do that when book summaries are inaccurate.
There is also a secondary storyline about how Millie’s ex-husband, Alex, and his fiancé, Rachel, are trying to restrict Millie’s son, Eric, from calling Millie most evenings; Eric loves talking to Millie and being able to say goodnight to her. Unfortunately, Millie is still allowing Alex, and Rachel, to bully her. Good grief!!! I can’t stand those two, and don’t even get me started on what Alex is hiding. He’s just a HUMUNGOUS @$$#*!% OMG!!! I wish Millie would stand up to them and quit being a target for their anger over their miserable lives. Uuuggghhh!!! For obvious reasons, I HATE THIS STORYLINE!!!
Anyway, now that I got that out of my system, there is another secondary storyline about an old schoolmate of Millie’s, Will, who is currently being evicted, along with his housemates, from their small, run-down, older, affordable home, even though the landlord refuses to fix anything and the tenants pay their rent every month, on time. Will has asked Guy to do a story on how rich Boomers are buying up all the land in the area, evicting poor Millennial residents (Will is a poor Millennial resident) and workers from the small and affordable housing and tearing them down to build humungous mansions that sit empty for most of the year.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation into what happened to Nicola 20yrs ago, the night that she was abducted. It was interesting learning about Millie as a teenager as she reminisced about that time in her life and telling Guy about what she was like. Guy got cut off from her when she was younger and never got the chance to be a good Godfather, so he too likes hearing about her growing up years. A couple of the stories were also really funny. The end came pretty quick and what happened to Nicola was revealed in such a random and uneventful way. It was kind of sad but satisfying and yet hopeful.
This definitely allows Wilkinson to open up Millie’s world a little bit and take the story in some different directions. This story was a good portrayal of how our realities of a certain event, or a particular period of our lives change over time. In other words, the way we saw our lives and relationships when we were teenagers and 20-somethings, can be so very different than the way we see that time when we’re much older.
I also enjoyed the author’s notes at the end. I don’t know if a lot of other readers read these, but I always do. So often, the author will share personal notes, feelings and/or memories or personal stories. I liked Wilkinson’s memories of what his life was like being a teenager in the 80’s; VERY different than what a teenager's life is like now. There’s something to be said for British humor. I have no freaking idea of what it is that should be said, but something should definitely be said about it😊
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Helen Keeley, and her British accent were quite lovely to listen to. I love the way she expertly delivered the snappy and sometimes snarky remarks, from mostly Millie and occasionally Guy. She kind of reminded me of Angèle Masters who narrates the Veronica Speedwell series and is a phenomenal narrator. Some may think that it may not be that hard to narrate an audiobook, but they would be wrong. It really takes a special kind of talent to be good at it. With Kindle Unlimited, I will often have the option to listen to the audiobook or read the Kindle edition. I can confirm that there have been some narrators that I have found sooo awful to listen to, I will close the audiobook and only read the Kindle edition. JMHO
April 11, 2023
The second in Kerry Wilkinson's new cosy Whitecliff Bay mystery series, THE ONE WHO WAS TAKEN follows on some six months or so after the first one
"The One Who Fell"
. You can read the book as a standalone but I do recommend reading them as a series as you get to see the character growth and their relationships develop...or dwindle.
In this second book, a mystery which took place some two decades ago comes back to haunt Millie. A mystery which only two people knew about. Now she receives a phone call from an unknown number but upon answering she hears the familiar "Mills..." and knows at once who is on the other end of the line. Millie hasn't heard from Nicola in fifteen years - not since their falling out - but now she is pleading with Millie to come quickly.
As 17 year olds, Millie and Nicola were inseparable. But in the final year of school and on the cusp of adulthood, the world outside beckoned as plans were made for university, travelling or the like. Things were changing for their group of friends and in one night, everything changed for these two. After walking home together, Nicola decided to head back to the park in the hope of catching boyfriend Charlie while Millie went home. The following morning, Millie received a vague text message from Nicola which lead her to the woods and thus finding her best friend handcuffed to a tree in a field. Her coveted purple converse and Nokia phone with the pink case were missing. Her hair had been cut off in chunks and was strewn about her. Nicola had no recollection of what happened to her...only waking up tied to the tree. She was unmolested but swears Millie to silence and the two friends hatch a plan to cover the sudden haircut, then go about their lives until other events six years later tears them apart.
Now fifteen years after cutting Nicola from her life, her old friend has reached out to her again. She is so distraught she is barely able to talk. So instead she shows Millie. Outside on the clothesline...hangs Nicola's distinct purple converse. The very same shoes that disappeared the same night Nicola had. And now they have reappeared again two decades later. Why? Who wants to taunt Nicola after all these years? Millie has no idea how she can help her friend. But she knows someone who may be able to. And so she calls on Guy and confides everything in him. Who knows? Maybe Guy can sift through his archives and find something that will help piece this puzzle together. And then Nicola can finally put the past to bed forever.
And then the old Nokia phone with the pink case is pushed through Nicola's mailslot one morning...
Meanwhile, the continuing backstory with her ex-husband (the snake), his new girlfriend-now-fiance, her relationship with her son Eric...all continues to be a big jumbled mess as only broken marriages with kids involved can be. Alex and Rachel are both snakes and their behaviour leaves a lot to be desired. I cannot believe some of the things that came out of their mouths at Eric's birthday party! I just wish Millie would reveal Alex's secret to the way-too-smug Rachel and wipe that smug smile off her face! Even an anonymous note would do. Anything. Alex cannot be made out to be the good guy here with sole custody because of her affair! How can he not feel guilty? And how can she not tell him what she knows? And how can he threaten her relationship with her son if she dare to make waves? Honestly, Alex and Rachel make my blood boil. And I can't wait to see them fall from their high horses...preferably on black ice.
As an aside to the main story and the continuing theme of her broken marriage, is the sit-in/live-in protest of a squat in which someone from Millie's old group of friends is involved. In part, I agree with their stance - that being that this is their town and rich folk come swanning in with their millions, buying up properties, knocking down the old and building their new McMansions with a view and thus sending up prices throughout town that locals can barely afford. These people who are only their seasonally. Whitecliff is home to many locals who can't afford the rents these rich folk incur. So I do agree with what they are saying...but the whole protest thing is not my thing. I didn't like Will one bit. He dangled a bit of information he'd garnered from another old friend in front of Millie with the threat of exposure. But what does he really know? If anything?
The book hints a little more about Millie's parent's suicide but not much more, leaving us wondering if there is something more to uncovered about it. From what we know about Millie thus far, it doesn't seem as if she would have had anything to do with it. But then the most unlikely answers are often the correct ones in the world of mystery fiction. But as yet, we are still none the wiser as to what really happened with her parents beyond their suicides. We don't even know why...yet.
And yet Millie herself is a woman of mystery. She is a bit of an enigma. So what do we know about Millie? One, she had an affair that ended her marriage and cost her the custody of her son. Two, the reason why she had the affair is known only to her and the reader. Why? Three, she moved home with her parents who did nothing to hide their disappointment in her and yet she remained in her childhood home. Four, her parents then die in a suicide pact afterwhich rumours are rife and continue to be so a year later that she killed them. Five, she has very few friends - Jack (and his partner Rishi) and now Guy (and his dog Barry). Six, her relationship with her ex is acrimonious at best and her relationship with her son is based on alternate weekend access. Seven, she reveals nothing on the subject of her parents' deaths leading readers to speculate wildly as to why. What really happened to her parents? And why?
THE ONE WHO WAS TAKEN holds something of a different mystery which thus presents with an interesting and unusual solution. I did guess it by my own process of elimination as it was the only one to make sense...even though in the end it didn't. On the whole, the story was an interesting stroll down memory lane...and thus building a broader picture of Millie. I also love the relationship and camaraderie between Millie and Guy.
I enjoyed this book and thought it was marginally better than the first due to the previous one's slow start. And after the cliffhanger this one provides, I'm keen to dive into the third one "The Ones who are Buried". The question is...do I start now or wait till morning? lol
I would like to thank #KerryWilkinson, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheOneWhoWasTaken in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
In this second book, a mystery which took place some two decades ago comes back to haunt Millie. A mystery which only two people knew about. Now she receives a phone call from an unknown number but upon answering she hears the familiar "Mills..." and knows at once who is on the other end of the line. Millie hasn't heard from Nicola in fifteen years - not since their falling out - but now she is pleading with Millie to come quickly.
As 17 year olds, Millie and Nicola were inseparable. But in the final year of school and on the cusp of adulthood, the world outside beckoned as plans were made for university, travelling or the like. Things were changing for their group of friends and in one night, everything changed for these two. After walking home together, Nicola decided to head back to the park in the hope of catching boyfriend Charlie while Millie went home. The following morning, Millie received a vague text message from Nicola which lead her to the woods and thus finding her best friend handcuffed to a tree in a field. Her coveted purple converse and Nokia phone with the pink case were missing. Her hair had been cut off in chunks and was strewn about her. Nicola had no recollection of what happened to her...only waking up tied to the tree. She was unmolested but swears Millie to silence and the two friends hatch a plan to cover the sudden haircut, then go about their lives until other events six years later tears them apart.
Now fifteen years after cutting Nicola from her life, her old friend has reached out to her again. She is so distraught she is barely able to talk. So instead she shows Millie. Outside on the clothesline...hangs Nicola's distinct purple converse. The very same shoes that disappeared the same night Nicola had. And now they have reappeared again two decades later. Why? Who wants to taunt Nicola after all these years? Millie has no idea how she can help her friend. But she knows someone who may be able to. And so she calls on Guy and confides everything in him. Who knows? Maybe Guy can sift through his archives and find something that will help piece this puzzle together. And then Nicola can finally put the past to bed forever.
And then the old Nokia phone with the pink case is pushed through Nicola's mailslot one morning...
Meanwhile, the continuing backstory with her ex-husband (the snake), his new girlfriend-now-fiance, her relationship with her son Eric...all continues to be a big jumbled mess as only broken marriages with kids involved can be. Alex and Rachel are both snakes and their behaviour leaves a lot to be desired. I cannot believe some of the things that came out of their mouths at Eric's birthday party! I just wish Millie would reveal Alex's secret to the way-too-smug Rachel and wipe that smug smile off her face! Even an anonymous note would do. Anything. Alex cannot be made out to be the good guy here with sole custody because of her affair! How can he not feel guilty? And how can she not tell him what she knows? And how can he threaten her relationship with her son if she dare to make waves? Honestly, Alex and Rachel make my blood boil. And I can't wait to see them fall from their high horses...preferably on black ice.
As an aside to the main story and the continuing theme of her broken marriage, is the sit-in/live-in protest of a squat in which someone from Millie's old group of friends is involved. In part, I agree with their stance - that being that this is their town and rich folk come swanning in with their millions, buying up properties, knocking down the old and building their new McMansions with a view and thus sending up prices throughout town that locals can barely afford. These people who are only their seasonally. Whitecliff is home to many locals who can't afford the rents these rich folk incur. So I do agree with what they are saying...but the whole protest thing is not my thing. I didn't like Will one bit. He dangled a bit of information he'd garnered from another old friend in front of Millie with the threat of exposure. But what does he really know? If anything?
The book hints a little more about Millie's parent's suicide but not much more, leaving us wondering if there is something more to uncovered about it. From what we know about Millie thus far, it doesn't seem as if she would have had anything to do with it. But then the most unlikely answers are often the correct ones in the world of mystery fiction. But as yet, we are still none the wiser as to what really happened with her parents beyond their suicides. We don't even know why...yet.
And yet Millie herself is a woman of mystery. She is a bit of an enigma. So what do we know about Millie? One, she had an affair that ended her marriage and cost her the custody of her son. Two, the reason why she had the affair is known only to her and the reader. Why? Three, she moved home with her parents who did nothing to hide their disappointment in her and yet she remained in her childhood home. Four, her parents then die in a suicide pact afterwhich rumours are rife and continue to be so a year later that she killed them. Five, she has very few friends - Jack (and his partner Rishi) and now Guy (and his dog Barry). Six, her relationship with her ex is acrimonious at best and her relationship with her son is based on alternate weekend access. Seven, she reveals nothing on the subject of her parents' deaths leading readers to speculate wildly as to why. What really happened to her parents? And why?
THE ONE WHO WAS TAKEN holds something of a different mystery which thus presents with an interesting and unusual solution. I did guess it by my own process of elimination as it was the only one to make sense...even though in the end it didn't. On the whole, the story was an interesting stroll down memory lane...and thus building a broader picture of Millie. I also love the relationship and camaraderie between Millie and Guy.
I enjoyed this book and thought it was marginally better than the first due to the previous one's slow start. And after the cliffhanger this one provides, I'm keen to dive into the third one "The Ones who are Buried". The question is...do I start now or wait till morning? lol
I would like to thank #KerryWilkinson, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheOneWhoWasTaken in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
April 15, 2023
I binge-read book two!
Effective title - who was taken? Why? What happened?
What I loved:
✔️the multi-level continuity; his characters/settings/conflicts appear again in book 2
✔️the delay of some backstory and the gradual reveal of characters
✔️no regurgitating of setting/characters from book 1
✔️answers some questions I had but raised more and left me with a cliffhanger
✔️quicker pace
✔️multiple settings, each with its own challenges (bandstand, squatter’s house)
✔️deftly places secondary obstacles in Millie’s path so it leads me back to the central conflict
✔️more exploration of the darker side of Whitecliff
✔️stellar use of sensory language to spotlight the atmosphere, making me emotionally involved and cautious
✔️adds just enough new characters to keep it interesting; not just walk-in characters, but ones with a purpose who aid/challenge the main characters
✔️central conflict continues to sustain my interest and the intro of new secondary conflicts is wrapped up within this sequel
What I struggled with:
✔️Millie not standing up for herself and defending the truth
Although a little more Americanized than book 1, I still loved coming across British expressions that I want to make my own. I’m using ‘blokey environment’ every chance I get!
I think Wilkinson and Bookouture have a winner in this series!
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Effective title - who was taken? Why? What happened?
What I loved:
✔️the multi-level continuity; his characters/settings/conflicts appear again in book 2
✔️the delay of some backstory and the gradual reveal of characters
✔️no regurgitating of setting/characters from book 1
✔️answers some questions I had but raised more and left me with a cliffhanger
✔️quicker pace
✔️multiple settings, each with its own challenges (bandstand, squatter’s house)
✔️deftly places secondary obstacles in Millie’s path so it leads me back to the central conflict
✔️more exploration of the darker side of Whitecliff
✔️stellar use of sensory language to spotlight the atmosphere, making me emotionally involved and cautious
✔️adds just enough new characters to keep it interesting; not just walk-in characters, but ones with a purpose who aid/challenge the main characters
✔️central conflict continues to sustain my interest and the intro of new secondary conflicts is wrapped up within this sequel
What I struggled with:
✔️Millie not standing up for herself and defending the truth
Although a little more Americanized than book 1, I still loved coming across British expressions that I want to make my own. I’m using ‘blokey environment’ every chance I get!
I think Wilkinson and Bookouture have a winner in this series!
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 8, 2023
Whitecliff Bay Mystery Book 2
In the darkness, the girl slumps against the rough tree bark. Her eyes are closed, her wrists are tied. As consciousness fades, her last thought is of her best friend, and how much she regrets what she did....
Seventeen-year-old Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom at the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing. Distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again.
Fifteen-years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in the garden. Is her attacker sending her a message? Why now, after all this time?
Millie and Nicola had been the best of friends, so what had happened to make them fall out for over a decade? But when incidents start happening to Nicola, she turns to Millie for help. Somebody knows Nicola's secret. The pace is steady in this book with two plotlines. It deals with relationships and how keeping secrets can rip them apart. There is also a house full of squatters refusing to leave even though they have been served with an eviction notice. I did enjoy this book more than I did the first one, I think mainly because the pace was a bit quicker. The story also ended with a cliffhanger. Thankfully I'm just away to dive into The Ones Who Are Buried, book 3 in the Whitcliff Bay Mysteries.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #KerryWilkinson for my ARC of #TheOneWhoWAsTaken in exchange for an honest review.
In the darkness, the girl slumps against the rough tree bark. Her eyes are closed, her wrists are tied. As consciousness fades, her last thought is of her best friend, and how much she regrets what she did....
Seventeen-year-old Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom at the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing. Distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again.
Fifteen-years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in the garden. Is her attacker sending her a message? Why now, after all this time?
Millie and Nicola had been the best of friends, so what had happened to make them fall out for over a decade? But when incidents start happening to Nicola, she turns to Millie for help. Somebody knows Nicola's secret. The pace is steady in this book with two plotlines. It deals with relationships and how keeping secrets can rip them apart. There is also a house full of squatters refusing to leave even though they have been served with an eviction notice. I did enjoy this book more than I did the first one, I think mainly because the pace was a bit quicker. The story also ended with a cliffhanger. Thankfully I'm just away to dive into The Ones Who Are Buried, book 3 in the Whitcliff Bay Mysteries.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #KerryWilkinson for my ARC of #TheOneWhoWAsTaken in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2023
Kerry Wilkinson writes great stories of complicated plots with very human conditions. This was book 2, which can be read as a stand-alone. Millie has another mystery to solve and most of it is shocking. Do we really know are friends and how much are they hiding. I’m torn up about Millie and Eric and I hope Alex gets what’s coming to him! Just saying. I’m invested and I can’t wait to start book 3.
Thanks Bookouture via Netgalley.
Thanks Bookouture via Netgalley.
March 26, 2023
Another great read from Kerry Wilkinson.
I think I enjoyed this a bit more than book one as this book expanded on the characters that we met in the first book.
Millie is contacted out of the blue by a friend she’s not seen in fifteen years. Something happened back then and someone is trying to remind them of that night.
Millie asks Guy for help and together they try and work out what’s going on.
This book ends on a cliffhanger so I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
Another great mystery thriller.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
I think I enjoyed this a bit more than book one as this book expanded on the characters that we met in the first book.
Millie is contacted out of the blue by a friend she’s not seen in fifteen years. Something happened back then and someone is trying to remind them of that night.
Millie asks Guy for help and together they try and work out what’s going on.
This book ends on a cliffhanger so I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
Another great mystery thriller.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
April 15, 2023
In the second book of The White Cliff Bay Mysteries millie reunite with her childhood best friend Nicola and lears forgiveness is another form of self care millie hasn’t spoke to Nicola in 15 years because of an industrration having to do with her dad but her and Nicholas share a secret in so when something appears showing someone else knows about it she thinks Millie is the only one she can turn to. Can Millie and Guy get to the bottom of the mystery?. Jack and Richie still want to adopt and need Milly to do an interview as a character witness but Millie is reluctant because she knows Jack wasn’t so keen about being a dad and thinks he’s only doing it for his boyfriend she also has more problems with Alex and his fiancé Rachel who wants little Eric to call her mom. When she attends Little Eric‘s birthday party The gas or less than cordial to Milli and after an interaction with Alex‘s mom she’s so glad guy came as her guest but when little Eric wants to wear his friend clothes dress and Alex tries to explain why he shouldn’t Millie finally steps in. There’s a lot more to the book and I mean a lot more but I love these books and have already started book 3 because OMG when you have a good thing going you don’t want it to stop and I’m so glad I had the next one already downloaded album Millie isn’t the most likable person there’s something I love about her although she can be quite annoying at times but as I said there’s something very lovable about Millie and I can’t get enough of these books I love them and highly recommend them if you love a good mystery with great subplots then you’ll love The White Cliff Bay Mysteries! I received this book from NetGalley and Bookoucher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
April 25, 2023
This is the second book in the series and we do get to know a bit more about Millie and her friends. However, I didn’t think it was quite as gripping as the first one, but I loved it all the same.
It was great to engage with Guy again and to have some expansion with the former characters in the book, but I thought that Millie was weak where her son was concerned, and she allowed Alex and Rachel to walk all over her. I think I would have punched Rachel, she was so supercilious. However, saying that Millie is a decent person and would be a wonderful friend, and she’s well liked within her circle. I just wish she’d stick up for herself a bit more.
This story goes back over 15 years when her friend Nicola was kidnapped, and in the present day someone has left her trainers in her garden, but who could have done this, and why? As the tale unfolds, all is not as it seems. Nicola and Millie haven’t really spoken in years, and it takes goodwill on both parts for them to become friends again. What follows is a twisted tale of friends and their lives, with another climatic conclusion, leaving the reader to rush straight onto book 3!
My thanks to Kerry, the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
It was great to engage with Guy again and to have some expansion with the former characters in the book, but I thought that Millie was weak where her son was concerned, and she allowed Alex and Rachel to walk all over her. I think I would have punched Rachel, she was so supercilious. However, saying that Millie is a decent person and would be a wonderful friend, and she’s well liked within her circle. I just wish she’d stick up for herself a bit more.
This story goes back over 15 years when her friend Nicola was kidnapped, and in the present day someone has left her trainers in her garden, but who could have done this, and why? As the tale unfolds, all is not as it seems. Nicola and Millie haven’t really spoken in years, and it takes goodwill on both parts for them to become friends again. What follows is a twisted tale of friends and their lives, with another climatic conclusion, leaving the reader to rush straight onto book 3!
My thanks to Kerry, the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
April 23, 2023
Wow. Just brilliant.i loved loved loved this one. Pacy and incredibly suspenseful,those was a wonderfully tense and thrilling read.
July 16, 2023
The novel started off rather slowly. Since it was such a light read, at first I wondered whether it was worth continuing. After a few minutes, however, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. The ending was a bit disappointing because it leads you to the writer’s next book. Oh, well!
April 14, 2023
Publication Date: 17th April 2023
4 Stars
One Liner: An intriguing and fast-paced mystery (not a standalone)
Millie and Nicola were best friends at high school until something tore them apart. Fifteen years later, Nicola calls Millie, asking for help. Nicola’s purple shoes were strung up in the backyard. These were the same shoes she was wearing on a fateful night someone tied her to a tie and hacked her hair into random bits.
The shoes could have been placed only by Nicola’s kidnapper. But neither she nor Millie knows who it is. They decided to forget the incident back then. But it looks like they have to get to the bottom of the issue. As Millie starts inquiring, she realizes that her memories and perspective of her school days are different from reality.
What happened then? What happens now? How will Nicola and Millie continue to keep the secret and uncover the kidnapper?
The story comes from Millie’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The second book in the series begins a few months after the first one ends. This one is more compact and puts together as the primary characters are already introduced and established in the previous book.
The book has two tracks apart from Millie’s personal life. That makes it three seemingly unrelated tracks, but there’s no confusion anywhere (even when the characters overlap. It’s a small town setting, after all).
Millie and Guy’s friendship is steady in this one. I like how they work together and help each other. Guy is truly the godfather Millie needs and she is the daughter he never had.
We get more than a glimpse into Millie’s childhood and teen life in the Whitecliff. More details are revealed and add depth to her character. Millie is very much a flawed character but with a good heart. She is trying, and we can’t help but root for her.
The main mystery is intriguing, but I’m not too sure about how it concludes. As a series reader (I already started book three), I can understand the reasoning. However, some readers may not like it, considering they read 270+ pages hoping to solve the issue.
I so wish Millie would stop letting her horrible ex-husband and his snooty fiancée treat her like this. Yeah, she was wrong, but he’s no saint, either. I hope there’s a book soon where they get their due. I don’t want to wait too long for this!
The setting is just as atmospheric and brooding as in book one. Whitecliff is no happy place. Or maybe it highlights the darker side of small towns a lot more.
I like the random one-star reviews Millie reads on the internet. They don’t make sense and drive the point about how stupid, prejudiced, and annoying people can be.
To summarize, The One Who Was Taken provides more answers about Millie but raises as many questions too. This book will not work as a standalone mystery. It has to be read as a part of the series and in the order (this comes from someone who doesn’t bother following a series order).
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheOneWhoWasTaken
4 Stars
One Liner: An intriguing and fast-paced mystery (not a standalone)
Millie and Nicola were best friends at high school until something tore them apart. Fifteen years later, Nicola calls Millie, asking for help. Nicola’s purple shoes were strung up in the backyard. These were the same shoes she was wearing on a fateful night someone tied her to a tie and hacked her hair into random bits.
The shoes could have been placed only by Nicola’s kidnapper. But neither she nor Millie knows who it is. They decided to forget the incident back then. But it looks like they have to get to the bottom of the issue. As Millie starts inquiring, she realizes that her memories and perspective of her school days are different from reality.
What happened then? What happens now? How will Nicola and Millie continue to keep the secret and uncover the kidnapper?
The story comes from Millie’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The second book in the series begins a few months after the first one ends. This one is more compact and puts together as the primary characters are already introduced and established in the previous book.
The book has two tracks apart from Millie’s personal life. That makes it three seemingly unrelated tracks, but there’s no confusion anywhere (even when the characters overlap. It’s a small town setting, after all).
Millie and Guy’s friendship is steady in this one. I like how they work together and help each other. Guy is truly the godfather Millie needs and she is the daughter he never had.
We get more than a glimpse into Millie’s childhood and teen life in the Whitecliff. More details are revealed and add depth to her character. Millie is very much a flawed character but with a good heart. She is trying, and we can’t help but root for her.
The main mystery is intriguing, but I’m not too sure about how it concludes. As a series reader (I already started book three), I can understand the reasoning. However, some readers may not like it, considering they read 270+ pages hoping to solve the issue.
I so wish Millie would stop letting her horrible ex-husband and his snooty fiancée treat her like this. Yeah, she was wrong, but he’s no saint, either. I hope there’s a book soon where they get their due. I don’t want to wait too long for this!
The setting is just as atmospheric and brooding as in book one. Whitecliff is no happy place. Or maybe it highlights the darker side of small towns a lot more.
I like the random one-star reviews Millie reads on the internet. They don’t make sense and drive the point about how stupid, prejudiced, and annoying people can be.
To summarize, The One Who Was Taken provides more answers about Millie but raises as many questions too. This book will not work as a standalone mystery. It has to be read as a part of the series and in the order (this comes from someone who doesn’t bother following a series order).
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheOneWhoWasTaken
March 22, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of The One Who Was Taken, the second novel to feature Millie Westlake, set in the fictional English seaside town of Whitecliff.
When Millie and her best friend, Nicola, were seventeen Millie found Nicola tied to a tree with her hair shorn and her shoes and phone missing. She can’t remember what happened and doesn’t want to talk about it. Millie and Nicola haven’t talked for over a decade, but now Nic needs Millie’s help - her shoes have turned up, tied to her washing line.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Who Was Taken, which is a warm, cosy tale of friendship and loss. There isn’t a real present day crime in the novel, it’s more a stroll back into Millie and Nic’s teenage years to solve a puzzle.
The novel is told entirely from Millie’s point of view and that works well in this kind of novel as the reader is able to enter into her feelings on a variety of topics and see things through her eyes. Millie is a woman of mystery. Her affair with an MP got her on the front pages of the tabloids and cost her her marriage and custody of her son, but why she had the affair is known only to her and the reader. Then her locally famous parents died in a suicide pact and the rumours are still swirling a year later that she killed them. She’s saying nothing on the subject, leaving the reader to speculate and, boy, have I speculated. It’s the best part of the novel.
The actual mystery of who attacked Nic and why it’s resurfacing now after so many years has a very interesting and unusual solution. I didn’t guess it, but I liked it as it seems to fit the evolution of Millie Westlake. Her route to the solution involves talking to all her old friends from that time, and what a surprise, most of them have a motive. I enjoyed her stroll down memory lane, even if it’s not her memories (she’s a bit of a blank canvas in that regard).
Above all this is a series about Millie’s reintegration into society. She felt shunned after all the gossip about her, but she’s starting to build a support network and acquire friends.
The One Who Was Taken is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
When Millie and her best friend, Nicola, were seventeen Millie found Nicola tied to a tree with her hair shorn and her shoes and phone missing. She can’t remember what happened and doesn’t want to talk about it. Millie and Nicola haven’t talked for over a decade, but now Nic needs Millie’s help - her shoes have turned up, tied to her washing line.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Who Was Taken, which is a warm, cosy tale of friendship and loss. There isn’t a real present day crime in the novel, it’s more a stroll back into Millie and Nic’s teenage years to solve a puzzle.
The novel is told entirely from Millie’s point of view and that works well in this kind of novel as the reader is able to enter into her feelings on a variety of topics and see things through her eyes. Millie is a woman of mystery. Her affair with an MP got her on the front pages of the tabloids and cost her her marriage and custody of her son, but why she had the affair is known only to her and the reader. Then her locally famous parents died in a suicide pact and the rumours are still swirling a year later that she killed them. She’s saying nothing on the subject, leaving the reader to speculate and, boy, have I speculated. It’s the best part of the novel.
The actual mystery of who attacked Nic and why it’s resurfacing now after so many years has a very interesting and unusual solution. I didn’t guess it, but I liked it as it seems to fit the evolution of Millie Westlake. Her route to the solution involves talking to all her old friends from that time, and what a surprise, most of them have a motive. I enjoyed her stroll down memory lane, even if it’s not her memories (she’s a bit of a blank canvas in that regard).
Above all this is a series about Millie’s reintegration into society. She felt shunned after all the gossip about her, but she’s starting to build a support network and acquire friends.
The One Who Was Taken is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
May 28, 2023
Kerry Wilkinson The One Who Was Taken (A Whitecliff Bay Mystery Book 2) Bookouture 2023.
The One Who Was Taken continues this series in which more information about the appealing main character, Millie, is divulged. At the same time a mystery is solved, and the relationships with her journalist friend, and her former husband and their son, move forward. Ingrid, from The One Who Fell, reappears, maintaining Wilkinson’s commitment to strengthening the image of older people. While long term personal relationships are developed, Millie’s school days are revisited with a mystery and a community concern about housing to be resolved. Nothing happens at a fast pace. However, for me, this is part of the charm of this series.
The value of friendships and forgiveness are explored, together with the role of parenting. Both involve Millie as a central character, or in her role as a friend of Jack and Rishi who are keen (to varying degrees) to adopt. Millie also becomes more immersed in Guy’s journalism world with her burgeoning interest in investigating events to which she is draw by her renewed links with her school friendship group. Although this role is not as pronounced in The One Who Was Taken, and Millie’s dog grooming business is also focussed upon, it is clear that Millie is adjusting to becoming a professional investigator and writer as a possible career. Some of the writing around Millie’s past is exquisite in its understanding of the value of friendships based on everyday talk and understandings. These links also are instrumental in illuminating the sometimes lack of insight that can surround school relationships.
This book ends with what might be seen as a contrived mystery aimed at luring the reader into the third book in the series. However, there is enough without this to encourage any reader to follow Millie’s story. Her son is becoming more independent of his father’s control, Millie is expanding her friendships and career prospects, and social issues are dealt with deftly. The third book in the series is a must read for me.
The One Who Was Taken continues this series in which more information about the appealing main character, Millie, is divulged. At the same time a mystery is solved, and the relationships with her journalist friend, and her former husband and their son, move forward. Ingrid, from The One Who Fell, reappears, maintaining Wilkinson’s commitment to strengthening the image of older people. While long term personal relationships are developed, Millie’s school days are revisited with a mystery and a community concern about housing to be resolved. Nothing happens at a fast pace. However, for me, this is part of the charm of this series.
The value of friendships and forgiveness are explored, together with the role of parenting. Both involve Millie as a central character, or in her role as a friend of Jack and Rishi who are keen (to varying degrees) to adopt. Millie also becomes more immersed in Guy’s journalism world with her burgeoning interest in investigating events to which she is draw by her renewed links with her school friendship group. Although this role is not as pronounced in The One Who Was Taken, and Millie’s dog grooming business is also focussed upon, it is clear that Millie is adjusting to becoming a professional investigator and writer as a possible career. Some of the writing around Millie’s past is exquisite in its understanding of the value of friendships based on everyday talk and understandings. These links also are instrumental in illuminating the sometimes lack of insight that can surround school relationships.
This book ends with what might be seen as a contrived mystery aimed at luring the reader into the third book in the series. However, there is enough without this to encourage any reader to follow Millie’s story. Her son is becoming more independent of his father’s control, Millie is expanding her friendships and career prospects, and social issues are dealt with deftly. The third book in the series is a must read for me.
May 3, 2024
This is the second book in Kerry Wilkinson’s Whitecliff Bay series. I hadn’t read the first, so was reading this as a standalone.
The main character, Mille, receives a call from a number she does not recognise. It turns out to be her childhood friend, Nicola. Mille hasn’t heard from Nicola for 15 years as they fell out in devastating circumstances. Now, Nicola is distraught and wants to see her urgently.
When they were both 17, and in their final year of school, Millie and Nicola went out with friends to the park. They started to walk home together, but Nicola double-backed because she wanted to see her boyfriend, Charlie. The next morning, Millie receives a strange text message from Nicola. She goes back to the park and woods and finds her friend handcuffed to a tree, chunks have been cut from her hair and her trainers and mobile phone stolen. Apart from that, she is unhurt and makes Millie swear not to tell anyone.
Now, 15 years later, Nicola is distraught as the trainers that were originally taken all those years ago, have turned up at Nicola’s house. Nicola wants Millie to find out the reason why they have turned up, but Millie does not know how. So she turns to her godfather Guy to help.
There is also a background story about Millie’s relationship with her ex-husband Alex and his new girlfriend, Rachel. They have custody of Millie and Alex’s son Eric. Coincidentally, they were also part of the same group of friends as Millie and Nicola back in the day. There is also a hint of another back story which is the mysterious circumstances of Millie’s parents’ deaths by suicide. Rumours still abound that Millie had something to do with it.
This is an excellent mystery, with a little more bite than the average cosy. The character of Millie, in particular, is finely drawn. You are never quite sure if she is saint or sinner in reality, but you find herself rooting for her anyway.
I will definitely read the next in the series.
A well-deserved 4 stars.
The main character, Mille, receives a call from a number she does not recognise. It turns out to be her childhood friend, Nicola. Mille hasn’t heard from Nicola for 15 years as they fell out in devastating circumstances. Now, Nicola is distraught and wants to see her urgently.
When they were both 17, and in their final year of school, Millie and Nicola went out with friends to the park. They started to walk home together, but Nicola double-backed because she wanted to see her boyfriend, Charlie. The next morning, Millie receives a strange text message from Nicola. She goes back to the park and woods and finds her friend handcuffed to a tree, chunks have been cut from her hair and her trainers and mobile phone stolen. Apart from that, she is unhurt and makes Millie swear not to tell anyone.
Now, 15 years later, Nicola is distraught as the trainers that were originally taken all those years ago, have turned up at Nicola’s house. Nicola wants Millie to find out the reason why they have turned up, but Millie does not know how. So she turns to her godfather Guy to help.
There is also a background story about Millie’s relationship with her ex-husband Alex and his new girlfriend, Rachel. They have custody of Millie and Alex’s son Eric. Coincidentally, they were also part of the same group of friends as Millie and Nicola back in the day. There is also a hint of another back story which is the mysterious circumstances of Millie’s parents’ deaths by suicide. Rumours still abound that Millie had something to do with it.
This is an excellent mystery, with a little more bite than the average cosy. The character of Millie, in particular, is finely drawn. You are never quite sure if she is saint or sinner in reality, but you find herself rooting for her anyway.
I will definitely read the next in the series.
A well-deserved 4 stars.
April 11, 2023
Firstly I do recommend you start with The One Who Fell. If you haven't already read that, or if you haven't read my review of it, I will repeat...
Warning! This publisher is renown for back filling books with ads etc. The copy I read ended VERY early. So you don't get caught out, I would really recommend that you find out where the story ends in the version you are reading before you start!
Also, this author has a passion for cliffhangers. I hate them, I see them as nothing but unnecessary blackmail and totally avoidable. But I also like his books so I guess I have to suck it up!
Right, that's that done.
The ongoing exploits of Millie. The peril of book one hasn't put her off, she has now got the detecting bug. Or should I say, the detecting bug has got her! Being as this is a continuation of a story from her childhood. One where her best friend Nicola was taken one night. Returned with her hair hacked off and missing her shoes. Now, many years later, one of the shoes has turned up... Meanwhile, Millie and Nicola had a falling out... Is this the thing that rekindles their friendship, or will it break them once and for all when the truth comes out?
So... Millie, I'm warming to her. He predicament with the affair, her ex-husbands part in that, he relationship with her son. All slowly all being explained. And her partnership with reporter Guy is coming on nicely. And we still have the issue regarding her parents' deaths.
And the main story being told herein. This time I guessed the "what really happened" far too early. But then again this genre is my bread and butter - so probably nothing the author did wrong. And anyway, I've been wrong before so...
It was a nice easy read though, one that wasn't too taxing. Continuing the cosy theme of the opener. Onward to book three...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Warning! This publisher is renown for back filling books with ads etc. The copy I read ended VERY early. So you don't get caught out, I would really recommend that you find out where the story ends in the version you are reading before you start!
Also, this author has a passion for cliffhangers. I hate them, I see them as nothing but unnecessary blackmail and totally avoidable. But I also like his books so I guess I have to suck it up!
Right, that's that done.
The ongoing exploits of Millie. The peril of book one hasn't put her off, she has now got the detecting bug. Or should I say, the detecting bug has got her! Being as this is a continuation of a story from her childhood. One where her best friend Nicola was taken one night. Returned with her hair hacked off and missing her shoes. Now, many years later, one of the shoes has turned up... Meanwhile, Millie and Nicola had a falling out... Is this the thing that rekindles their friendship, or will it break them once and for all when the truth comes out?
So... Millie, I'm warming to her. He predicament with the affair, her ex-husbands part in that, he relationship with her son. All slowly all being explained. And her partnership with reporter Guy is coming on nicely. And we still have the issue regarding her parents' deaths.
And the main story being told herein. This time I guessed the "what really happened" far too early. But then again this genre is my bread and butter - so probably nothing the author did wrong. And anyway, I've been wrong before so...
It was a nice easy read though, one that wasn't too taxing. Continuing the cosy theme of the opener. Onward to book three...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
September 13, 2025
The One Who Was Taken by Kerry Wilkinson
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
In the darkness, the girl slumps against the rough tree bark. Her eyes are closed, her wrists tied. As consciousness fades, her last thought is of her best friend, and how much she regrets what she did…
Seventeen-year-old best friends Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing . Distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again…
Fifteen years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden. Is her attacker sending a message? Why now, after all this time?
In the small town of Whitecliff, people have long memories – but Millie is the only one who can help get answers. And, as she asks questions of their school friends, she realises one of them knows more than they should about her own family secrets…
Not knowing who to trust, and knowing Nicola’s kidnapper is still out there, Millie must ask: how far will they go to keep the truth buried forever?
My Opinion
The One Who Was Taken is the second book in the Whitecliff Bay Mysteries series and I would highly recommend reading the books in the correct order. Kerry Wilkinson has written a fast-paced novel. So far, this is an enjoyable series.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
In the darkness, the girl slumps against the rough tree bark. Her eyes are closed, her wrists tied. As consciousness fades, her last thought is of her best friend, and how much she regrets what she did…
Seventeen-year-old best friends Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing . Distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again…
Fifteen years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden. Is her attacker sending a message? Why now, after all this time?
In the small town of Whitecliff, people have long memories – but Millie is the only one who can help get answers. And, as she asks questions of their school friends, she realises one of them knows more than they should about her own family secrets…
Not knowing who to trust, and knowing Nicola’s kidnapper is still out there, Millie must ask: how far will they go to keep the truth buried forever?
My Opinion
The One Who Was Taken is the second book in the Whitecliff Bay Mysteries series and I would highly recommend reading the books in the correct order. Kerry Wilkinson has written a fast-paced novel. So far, this is an enjoyable series.
Rating 4/5
April 4, 2023
Setting the Scene: Fifteen years ago, 17 year old Millie finds her best friend, Nicola, handcuffed to a tree in a field, her distinct purple converse and pink Nokia phone missing. Her hair is cut off in chunks, but Nic is otherwise unmolested and has no memory of how she got there. She swears Millie to silence, and the two go on with their lives until other events tear them apart. Now, Nic reaches out to Millie when the purple converse suddenly show up on her clothes line. Millie is the only other person who knows about the incident and the only person who can help her old friend. Millie has no idea how her decision to help Nic find out who is responsible, will change her life.
What I Thought: This is a very well written book, with several mysteries to be solved, but I struggled with it. It paints a dreary picture, and Millie is such a pathetic creature. Her life is in shambles, as it was in the first book. Although she made very poor choices that led to many of her problems, she certainly is not the only culprit in her story. Yet, in this second book she still is doing nothing to defend herself or mitigate her problems, particularly where her son is concerned. While her reunion with Nicola has mixed results perhaps it will lead to a more positive outcome in the next book. I do plan to read Book 3, in part because i received a copy from NetGalley, and also because the optimist in me holds out hope that Millie will overcome.
#theonewhowastaken #kerrywilkinson #bookouture #NetGalley #amateursleuth #britishmystery #mysterybooks #bookreview #bookworm #bookaddict #booklovers #bookrecommendations #bookloversofinstagram #bookwormsofinstagram
What I Thought: This is a very well written book, with several mysteries to be solved, but I struggled with it. It paints a dreary picture, and Millie is such a pathetic creature. Her life is in shambles, as it was in the first book. Although she made very poor choices that led to many of her problems, she certainly is not the only culprit in her story. Yet, in this second book she still is doing nothing to defend herself or mitigate her problems, particularly where her son is concerned. While her reunion with Nicola has mixed results perhaps it will lead to a more positive outcome in the next book. I do plan to read Book 3, in part because i received a copy from NetGalley, and also because the optimist in me holds out hope that Millie will overcome.
#theonewhowastaken #kerrywilkinson #bookouture #NetGalley #amateursleuth #britishmystery #mysterybooks #bookreview #bookworm #bookaddict #booklovers #bookrecommendations #bookloversofinstagram #bookwormsofinstagram
April 20, 2023
The One Who Was Taken by Kerry Wilkinson is the second book in the new excellent A Whitecliff Bay Mystery series and we meet the same characters again from the first book called The One that Fell, which was great, as we know them now. However, it can be read as a standalone, but I do recommend reading the first book.
Within this book Millie and Nicola who are seventeen they're best friends and was supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing. So distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again…......
What Happened to her?
Fifteen years later and with countless secrets and hurt between them both. Millie and Nicola have never spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden.
Is her attacker sending a message? Why now, after all this time?
And who is it?
Millie is the only one who can help get answers. And, as she asks questions of their school friends, she realises one of them knows more than they should about her own family secrets….........
This book is full of great twists and turns with lots of secrets that will have you gripped. I ended up reading it in one sitting I loved it and looking forward reading more OF A Whitecliff Bay Mystery series.
I highly recommend this books.
Big thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Kerry Wilkinson for my ARC of The One Who WAs Taken in exchange for an honest review.
Within this book Millie and Nicola who are seventeen they're best friends and was supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. But when dawn comes Millie realises Nicola is missing. So distraught, she searches for her alone: and finds Nicola tied to a tree, her purple Converse shoes missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again…......
What Happened to her?
Fifteen years later and with countless secrets and hurt between them both. Millie and Nicola have never spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden.
Is her attacker sending a message? Why now, after all this time?
And who is it?
Millie is the only one who can help get answers. And, as she asks questions of their school friends, she realises one of them knows more than they should about her own family secrets….........
This book is full of great twists and turns with lots of secrets that will have you gripped. I ended up reading it in one sitting I loved it and looking forward reading more OF A Whitecliff Bay Mystery series.
I highly recommend this books.
Big thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Kerry Wilkinson for my ARC of The One Who WAs Taken in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2023
The One Who Was Taken by Kerry Wilkinson
Published: April 17, 2023
Bookouture
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 317
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Kerry Wilkinson is originally from the county of Somerset; Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel.' When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
“Sometimes you have to be ruthless in letting go of things… or in trying to keep hold of what you have.”
Millie gets a phone call from someone she hasn’t spoken to in 15 years, leading her to take a trip down memory lane. Now, she has to try and sort out why the past is suddenly crashing into the present while trying to maintain a civil temper with her ex for the sake of her son.
I like how easy this book was to read. The pacing and timeline move swiftly. There is just enough happening to keep you engaged, but nothing so chaotic that you feel like you need a break.
I like Millie. I hope she turns out to be a good person because she has had a lot of rotten luck. We get to know Guy more in this book, and I like him. He is one of this wise older people, who has seen and heard a lot of things, so his perspective is solid.
We met some old friends from the past, and it was interesting how they were woven into the story. We got a bit more Jack, who was lovely.
The ending of this book will make you scream.
Published: April 17, 2023
Bookouture
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 317
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Kerry Wilkinson is originally from the county of Somerset; Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel.' When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
“Sometimes you have to be ruthless in letting go of things… or in trying to keep hold of what you have.”
Millie gets a phone call from someone she hasn’t spoken to in 15 years, leading her to take a trip down memory lane. Now, she has to try and sort out why the past is suddenly crashing into the present while trying to maintain a civil temper with her ex for the sake of her son.
I like how easy this book was to read. The pacing and timeline move swiftly. There is just enough happening to keep you engaged, but nothing so chaotic that you feel like you need a break.
I like Millie. I hope she turns out to be a good person because she has had a lot of rotten luck. We get to know Guy more in this book, and I like him. He is one of this wise older people, who has seen and heard a lot of things, so his perspective is solid.
We met some old friends from the past, and it was interesting how they were woven into the story. We got a bit more Jack, who was lovely.
The ending of this book will make you scream.
April 13, 2023
This book begins with a mystery and ends with a cliff hanger!
This is the second book in the Whitecliff Bay Series and readers will recognize many of the same characters from the first book. When Millie was seventeen she found her then best friend, Nicola, tied to a tree, her hair cut off and one of her shoes strung up. Nicola does not remember anything and begs Millie not to bring up what happened to her again.
It has been fifteen years since Millie and Nicola have spoken but someone strung up her missing shoe in her garden. Is the person who strung her up all those years ago trying to send her a message?
As Millie begins to investigate what happened to her former friend, she realizes that she and her friend Nicola are not the only ones with secrets and that someone knows something. Small towns know how to keep secrets, they seldom forget them, and everyone tends to know your business (Millie knows this better than anyone). Who has a secret in Whitecliff, that they want to keep buried? Will the truth come out? Who harmed Nicola all those years ago? Who can be trusted?
This was a great mystery that kept me on my toes. I enjoyed getting to know some of the characters better in this book. There are quite a few twists, turns and secrets along the way. With that cliff hanger, I am looking forward to diving into the next book in the series.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This is the second book in the Whitecliff Bay Series and readers will recognize many of the same characters from the first book. When Millie was seventeen she found her then best friend, Nicola, tied to a tree, her hair cut off and one of her shoes strung up. Nicola does not remember anything and begs Millie not to bring up what happened to her again.
It has been fifteen years since Millie and Nicola have spoken but someone strung up her missing shoe in her garden. Is the person who strung her up all those years ago trying to send her a message?
As Millie begins to investigate what happened to her former friend, she realizes that she and her friend Nicola are not the only ones with secrets and that someone knows something. Small towns know how to keep secrets, they seldom forget them, and everyone tends to know your business (Millie knows this better than anyone). Who has a secret in Whitecliff, that they want to keep buried? Will the truth come out? Who harmed Nicola all those years ago? Who can be trusted?
This was a great mystery that kept me on my toes. I enjoyed getting to know some of the characters better in this book. There are quite a few twists, turns and secrets along the way. With that cliff hanger, I am looking forward to diving into the next book in the series.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
June 23, 2023
I loved the first novel in the series, and this one is as good, if not better. Millie’s a brilliant character, but then most of the main players are, especially Guy and Jack. This novel continues the story of Millie, whose troubled past has defined the way people treat her.
Former best friend Nicola contacts Millie after a ten year silence. Fifteen years ago, she found Nicola tied to a tree and her long hair cut. Her missing trainers have been left on the washing line, presumably to intimate her. But who took them in the first place? And why return them now?
Millie offers to help and talks to her friend and godfather, Guy, who used to be a local reporter. His archives and local knowledge of what happened all those years ago, might shed light on the tight group that Nicola and Millie were part of.
While the mystery remains at the core of the story, Millie’s personal life lurches from bad to worse as she investigates. Forced to confront some of her old school friends, she discovers some unpleasant truths about what seemed to be idyllic times. But will any of this shed any light on the return of Nicola shoes?
While this is ultimately a story of friendship and tolerance, it’s a cracking mystery that kept me turning the pages, enjoying how Millie negotiates all her troubles, often under extreme provocation. There’s tension, conflict and adversity battling friendship, concern and love. Amid the drama, there are touching moments that are truly uplifting.
It’s simply an exemplary read. I think I’ve found a new author and series to add to my favourites.
Former best friend Nicola contacts Millie after a ten year silence. Fifteen years ago, she found Nicola tied to a tree and her long hair cut. Her missing trainers have been left on the washing line, presumably to intimate her. But who took them in the first place? And why return them now?
Millie offers to help and talks to her friend and godfather, Guy, who used to be a local reporter. His archives and local knowledge of what happened all those years ago, might shed light on the tight group that Nicola and Millie were part of.
While the mystery remains at the core of the story, Millie’s personal life lurches from bad to worse as she investigates. Forced to confront some of her old school friends, she discovers some unpleasant truths about what seemed to be idyllic times. But will any of this shed any light on the return of Nicola shoes?
While this is ultimately a story of friendship and tolerance, it’s a cracking mystery that kept me turning the pages, enjoying how Millie negotiates all her troubles, often under extreme provocation. There’s tension, conflict and adversity battling friendship, concern and love. Amid the drama, there are touching moments that are truly uplifting.
It’s simply an exemplary read. I think I’ve found a new author and series to add to my favourites.
March 22, 2023
This is the second book in the ‘Whitecliff Bay’ mystery series by author Kerry Wilkinson. Following on from the first book ‘The One that Fell’ we meet the same characters again. The author continues to develop the characters which makes the series a more enjoyable read.
Teenage friend Nicola and Millie were hoping to have fun in the local park but that is spoilt by the disappearance of Nicola. Once Millie realises that Nicola is missing she begins the search for her friend only to find her tied to a tree with one of her shoes missing and her long hair scattered on the ground. Nicola swears she doesn’t know what has happened and begs for Millie not to speak of it again.
Fifteen years later and Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade, but now Nicola has found her missing shoe strung up in her garden. Why now after fifteen years is this happening and is her attacker sending a message? Millie is once again on a case and is asking questions of their old school friends, hoping that one of them has information that can help. The problem is Nicola’s kidnapper is still on the scene, meaning that she doesn’t know who she can trust.
I enjoyed this one a lot more the the first. A more interesting plot and being more familiar with the characters helped.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Teenage friend Nicola and Millie were hoping to have fun in the local park but that is spoilt by the disappearance of Nicola. Once Millie realises that Nicola is missing she begins the search for her friend only to find her tied to a tree with one of her shoes missing and her long hair scattered on the ground. Nicola swears she doesn’t know what has happened and begs for Millie not to speak of it again.
Fifteen years later and Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade, but now Nicola has found her missing shoe strung up in her garden. Why now after fifteen years is this happening and is her attacker sending a message? Millie is once again on a case and is asking questions of their old school friends, hoping that one of them has information that can help. The problem is Nicola’s kidnapper is still on the scene, meaning that she doesn’t know who she can trust.
I enjoyed this one a lot more the the first. A more interesting plot and being more familiar with the characters helped.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2023
Seventeen-year-old best friends Nicola and Millie were supposed to have a summer night of fun and freedom in the local park. Then Millie receives a text from Nic and finds Nic handcuffed to a tree, her purple Converse shoes & phone missing, her long hair cut and scattered on the ground. With no memory of what happened, terrified Nicola begs Millie never to speak of this again. Fifteen years later. With countless secrets and hurt between them, Millie and Nicola have not spoken in over a decade. But now Nicola has found her old purple Converse strung up in her garden
The second book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own, I feel the series would be better read in order as the relationships are developing & growing. I much preferred this to the first book, the pace is better & the characters seem more fleshed out. I’m growing to like Millie more & more & am intrigued to learn all of her backstory, as this is being drip fed. I also like her relationship with godfather Guy as well as Jack. There are twists, turns & red herrings about Nicola’s kidnap & the reveal whilst a surprise wasn’t unexpected. This book does end on a cliffhanger so I'm glad I can immediately dive into book three
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own, I feel the series would be better read in order as the relationships are developing & growing. I much preferred this to the first book, the pace is better & the characters seem more fleshed out. I’m growing to like Millie more & more & am intrigued to learn all of her backstory, as this is being drip fed. I also like her relationship with godfather Guy as well as Jack. There are twists, turns & red herrings about Nicola’s kidnap & the reveal whilst a surprise wasn’t unexpected. This book does end on a cliffhanger so I'm glad I can immediately dive into book three
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 6, 2025
After reading the first part with great pleasure and being very curious about the answer to the question posed on the last page, I immediately grabbed book two.
Although the author already lifted a corner of the veil hanging over Millie's recent past, we now go even further back in time.
We meet seventeen-year-old Millie and her group of friends who often hang out together, but what happens to her best friend Nicola that summer causes a rift between them.
Now, all these years later, Nicola is begging her for help. What’s going on?
The memories start resurfacing, and Millie decides, once and for all, to unmask the culprit. But what will she do with the knowledge she’s gained?
Once again, she can rely on Guy, with whom she has built a strong bond.
Of course, her ex Alex and his bossy girlfriend Rachel can't be left out — and they’re once again their selfish selves.
Have I gotten closer to solving the million-dollar question from the previous book? Yes, definitely, but I still doubt whether I can truly believe it. Maybe there’s still a twist or further explanation to come.
Once more, the author dangles a carrot in front of me, but unfortunately, I’ll only get to enjoy it in book three. ;)
I once again thoroughly enjoyed Millie and her quest for answers and I hope to see her again soon in the next part. 5 stars.
Thank you
Although the author already lifted a corner of the veil hanging over Millie's recent past, we now go even further back in time.
We meet seventeen-year-old Millie and her group of friends who often hang out together, but what happens to her best friend Nicola that summer causes a rift between them.
Now, all these years later, Nicola is begging her for help. What’s going on?
The memories start resurfacing, and Millie decides, once and for all, to unmask the culprit. But what will she do with the knowledge she’s gained?
Once again, she can rely on Guy, with whom she has built a strong bond.
Of course, her ex Alex and his bossy girlfriend Rachel can't be left out — and they’re once again their selfish selves.
Have I gotten closer to solving the million-dollar question from the previous book? Yes, definitely, but I still doubt whether I can truly believe it. Maybe there’s still a twist or further explanation to come.
Once more, the author dangles a carrot in front of me, but unfortunately, I’ll only get to enjoy it in book three. ;)
I once again thoroughly enjoyed Millie and her quest for answers and I hope to see her again soon in the next part. 5 stars.
Thank you
April 19, 2023
This one continues from book 1, and cannot be read as stand alone.
The book had a YA feel to it, though all the characters are 40+ but still behave like teenagers.
There is a mystery of a missing shoe and phone re-appearing after 15 years. Millie and Guy try to resolve this mystery and there are flashbacks to those days when Millie and her friends were young. And why Millie fell out with her then best friend Nicola.
The plotline is a little strange - A group of teenagers in a small town, later married within the group - 3.5 couples (read the book to find out what the 0.5 is about) . They continue living in the same town even though everyone mistrusts each other and no real friends. Millie's choice of friends made my skin crawl. Jenny and Rachel were so b***hy and rude, why was Millie so nice to them and wanted to have reunions! The ending was unsatisafctory.
The mystery of Millie's parents death was not revealed, so I will read the next book. The author seems to have forgotten about the wild cat or was it limited to Book 1?
Thanks to NetGalley, the Publisher and the Author for the ARC
The book had a YA feel to it, though all the characters are 40+ but still behave like teenagers.
There is a mystery of a missing shoe and phone re-appearing after 15 years. Millie and Guy try to resolve this mystery and there are flashbacks to those days when Millie and her friends were young. And why Millie fell out with her then best friend Nicola.
The plotline is a little strange - A group of teenagers in a small town, later married within the group - 3.5 couples (read the book to find out what the 0.5 is about) . They continue living in the same town even though everyone mistrusts each other and no real friends. Millie's choice of friends made my skin crawl. Jenny and Rachel were so b***hy and rude, why was Millie so nice to them and wanted to have reunions! The ending was unsatisafctory.
The mystery of Millie's parents death was not revealed, so I will read the next book. The author seems to have forgotten about the wild cat or was it limited to Book 1?
Thanks to NetGalley, the Publisher and the Author for the ARC
March 22, 2023
This is book two in the Whitecliff Bay Mystery series. You won’t believe who the culprit is🤔. We learn a lot more about Millie in this read & I’m looking forward to continue the series.
Millie Westlake volunteers at her local nursing home and has recently begun helping a retired reporter with stories for his blog. Her marriage is over and people blame her 100% for the divorce. She barely sees her son as a result and people in town think she killed her parents. Her life’s a train wreck.
When a surprise call comes in from a school mate that Millie has been estranged from for years, she’s surprised to say the least. Nicola needs Millie’s help; a secret from their past has come back to light and Millie is the only one who knows the truth.
As Millie investigates, she brings in her mentor, Guy, to help. They uncover some leads that bring Millie in contact with others from their peer group. Could someone else know what happened? Everyone has secrets. What will Millie discover?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Millie Westlake volunteers at her local nursing home and has recently begun helping a retired reporter with stories for his blog. Her marriage is over and people blame her 100% for the divorce. She barely sees her son as a result and people in town think she killed her parents. Her life’s a train wreck.
When a surprise call comes in from a school mate that Millie has been estranged from for years, she’s surprised to say the least. Nicola needs Millie’s help; a secret from their past has come back to light and Millie is the only one who knows the truth.
As Millie investigates, she brings in her mentor, Guy, to help. They uncover some leads that bring Millie in contact with others from their peer group. Could someone else know what happened? Everyone has secrets. What will Millie discover?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2023
The second in the Whitecliff Bay Mysteries and although a stand alone story, the backstory of Millie continues to be revealed so I would highly recommend reading The One Who Fell first to have continuity and full enjoyment of this promising series. This mystery is set several months after the first book and sees Millie reconnecting with her best friend Nicola after fifteen years of silence between them. Nicola is extremely concerned by a frightening reminder of a strange event only she and Millie ever knew about and that had happened when they were teenagers. She therefore contacted her out of the blue and intrigued Millie tentatively re-established their friendship and attempted to help with her new problem. This book also delves into the world of squatters amid the topic of nationwide housing problems. It also continues her father figure relationship with Guy who helps her discover answers. Her friends Jack and Rishi make further appearances as does her young son, Eric. All completely individual characters who combined make this series one that will make you want to keep reading.
March 6, 2023
While this mystery is a little bit different in the way it all plays out, I really enjoyed seeing Millie kind of come into her own investigating cases. In this book, her ex-best friend Nicola calls Millie out of the blue, and gives tells her that she found the shoes from when she was kidnapped like 20 years ago. Even though Millie hasn't spoken to Nic in years she finds herself reconnecting with her to help her figure out who would have left the shoes, and who might have been behind what happened to her that summer. I love that Millie is finally getting some new/old friends after all the crap she went through with her parent's death, and what her butthole ex-husband and his new fiance are trying to pull now. I really hope that Alex gets what coming in the next book or the near future.
Between the writing, the characters, and wanting to see exactly how this mystery is going to be solved, I flew this and read it in just a few hours. I'm excited that I can jump right into the third book. The little snippet we get at the end of this book was super intriguing, and I can't wait to dive in.
Between the writing, the characters, and wanting to see exactly how this mystery is going to be solved, I flew this and read it in just a few hours. I'm excited that I can jump right into the third book. The little snippet we get at the end of this book was super intriguing, and I can't wait to dive in.
March 23, 2023
Well that was unexpected! Having read the first book in the series, I was expecting another cosy crime mystery and looking forward to learning a bit more about Millie, but I think what Kerry Wilkinson has written is much more than that. After 15 years of estrangement, Millie is reunited with her childhood friend Nicola and together they investigate a peculiar incident from their teenage years when Nicola was attacked by an unknown assailant who cut her hair and handcuffed her to a tree overnight. Why are Nicola’s trainers and phone that were taken by her attacker long ago returned now?
As with the first book, Kerry develops the characters superbly and, for me, the solving of the mystery is of secondary importance as the author explores the characters’ relationships. This book is all about friendships and memory and I enjoyed it immensely. I am also thankful to have the third book available to read immediately as this book finished on quite a cliffhanger!
As with the first book, Kerry develops the characters superbly and, for me, the solving of the mystery is of secondary importance as the author explores the characters’ relationships. This book is all about friendships and memory and I enjoyed it immensely. I am also thankful to have the third book available to read immediately as this book finished on quite a cliffhanger!
April 5, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "The One Who Was Taken" in exchange for my honest review.
This is book 2 in the Whitecliff Bay Mystery series. This story takes place roughly 6 months after the previous book "The One Who Fell". Once again Millie and Guy are the main characters, Jack and Rishi are also back as are Millie's son Eric and her ex-husband Alex who has now set a wedding date to Rachel.
Nicola used to be Millie's best friend and she disappeared one night and was found the next day by Millie. Now items from that time are being sent to Nicola and she asks for Millie's help even though they have barely spoke in the past 15 years. This book features more of the group that used to hang around as teens.
Again this book is different from the usual books by this author. There isn't the suspense and grab the reader on the first page feel to it. The pace of the book is much slower than his other books and it takes a bit to get into it.
This is book 2 in the Whitecliff Bay Mystery series. This story takes place roughly 6 months after the previous book "The One Who Fell". Once again Millie and Guy are the main characters, Jack and Rishi are also back as are Millie's son Eric and her ex-husband Alex who has now set a wedding date to Rachel.
Nicola used to be Millie's best friend and she disappeared one night and was found the next day by Millie. Now items from that time are being sent to Nicola and she asks for Millie's help even though they have barely spoke in the past 15 years. This book features more of the group that used to hang around as teens.
Again this book is different from the usual books by this author. There isn't the suspense and grab the reader on the first page feel to it. The pace of the book is much slower than his other books and it takes a bit to get into it.
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