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Penance
From the author of The Things I Didn’t Do : She never reported the men who attacked her years ago. Now someone is taking revenge . . .
Years ago at university, Celia’s boyfriend turned on her in a horrifying way—joining with his friends to sexually assault her during a party. Celia didn’t go to the police. She told no one except her best friend, Lily. She just wanted to move on with her life.
Now, her settled life with her beloved husband and daughter has been disrupted when one of her assailants is found dead. Celia can’t help but wonder if the friend she confided in—who’s gone on to become a private investigator—could be capable of murder. So she decides to search for answers.
But her pursuit takes her down a path Celia never expected—and raises an even more terrifying Is she capable of murder herself?
Years ago at university, Celia’s boyfriend turned on her in a horrifying way—joining with his friends to sexually assault her during a party. Celia didn’t go to the police. She told no one except her best friend, Lily. She just wanted to move on with her life.
Now, her settled life with her beloved husband and daughter has been disrupted when one of her assailants is found dead. Celia can’t help but wonder if the friend she confided in—who’s gone on to become a private investigator—could be capable of murder. So she decides to search for answers.
But her pursuit takes her down a path Celia never expected—and raises an even more terrifying Is she capable of murder herself?
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2023
19 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
April 24, 2023
Celia works in publishing, is happily married to Simon & they have a young daughter, Dawn. Celia also has a BFF called Lily whom she has known & been friends with since university. Life is great until Celia sees a news broadcast about the discovery of a body. The victim is identified as Mitchell Webster, one of her university boyfriend's group of friends who carried out a horrific assault on Celia at a party. When Celia finds out that Mitchell is not the first of the group to die, (her ex Theo was the first & is thought to have committed suicide a couple of years before), she wonders if this is just coincidence or something darker, something that she is afraid her best friend could well be involved in.
The main character is Celia & the reader follows her narrative in the present for most of the book, with a short section about a third of way through which goes back into what happened in the past. I thought that the author did a great job of portraying a stable family dynamic & it was nice not to have the husband turn out to be a cheater/narcissist/ psychopath for once (this isn't a spoiler - see below). The reader actually cares what happens to Celia & I thought it was incredibly well-written from that perspective.
You actually find out who is behind the killings fairly early on, & although there is an investigation, there's not much of a sense of jeopardy. This is more an examination of a popular trope in crime fiction - that under the right (or wrong as the case may be) circumstances anyone is capable of taking a life. Are there any justifications or mitigations for say, killing a predator? What does that then do to you & your relationships with those around you?
I enjoyed reading it, it's a good book for people who don't like a lot of gore or graphic scenes as most of the violence, including the historic sexual assault, thankfully take place off-page. It's medium-paced with a few scenes which stretch the bounds of credibility, but mostly it's a intriguing read, although it doesn't dig too deep into the morality of such acts. I'd definitely read more of the author's work.
My thanks to publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC. I am voluntarily giving an honest review.
The main character is Celia & the reader follows her narrative in the present for most of the book, with a short section about a third of way through which goes back into what happened in the past. I thought that the author did a great job of portraying a stable family dynamic & it was nice not to have the husband turn out to be a cheater/narcissist/ psychopath for once (this isn't a spoiler - see below). The reader actually cares what happens to Celia & I thought it was incredibly well-written from that perspective.
You actually find out who is behind the killings fairly early on, & although there is an investigation, there's not much of a sense of jeopardy. This is more an examination of a popular trope in crime fiction - that under the right (or wrong as the case may be) circumstances anyone is capable of taking a life. Are there any justifications or mitigations for say, killing a predator? What does that then do to you & your relationships with those around you?
I enjoyed reading it, it's a good book for people who don't like a lot of gore or graphic scenes as most of the violence, including the historic sexual assault, thankfully take place off-page. It's medium-paced with a few scenes which stretch the bounds of credibility, but mostly it's a intriguing read, although it doesn't dig too deep into the morality of such acts. I'd definitely read more of the author's work.
My thanks to publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC. I am voluntarily giving an honest review.
September 22, 2023
A dark, but easy, read.
April 27, 2023
Celia was attacked in college and she was too scared to do anything about it. Now when one of her attackers turns up dead, the police question her and she’s not sure what they know or why she’s suddenly in the crosshairs. As bodies stack up, it’s clear someone is targeting these men. Can Celia figure out what is happening before she ends up on the hook for their murders.
This is a great revenge story. It goes quite quickly from being a pacey mystery to an all out kick a** revenge story. I’m not sure I bought Celia’s quick transition. But I really loved Lily’s strong, balanced attitude. Read this one if you loved The Collective.
Thanks to Love Books Tours for the gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
This is a great revenge story. It goes quite quickly from being a pacey mystery to an all out kick a** revenge story. I’m not sure I bought Celia’s quick transition. But I really loved Lily’s strong, balanced attitude. Read this one if you loved The Collective.
Thanks to Love Books Tours for the gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
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November 15, 2023DNF @60%
Penance wasn't my first book by this author, but although I loved the mystery and the pace of my previous read, this story left me unfeeling. I couldn't make myself relate to the characters or get invested into the storyline. The mystery unfolded soon enough, so much so that I lost interest halfway. I tried to read more but couldn't get into it anymore. My reading bubble was burst.
Penance wasn't my first book by this author, but although I loved the mystery and the pace of my previous read, this story left me unfeeling. I couldn't make myself relate to the characters or get invested into the storyline. The mystery unfolded soon enough, so much so that I lost interest halfway. I tried to read more but couldn't get into it anymore. My reading bubble was burst.
May 9, 2023
I have read tons of books (and I do mean tons!) by this author. Whichever genre I read from her is always superb.
Penance is a psychological suspense novel that has to be one of her best books. It's a complex and pretty dark at times story. I loved the pace of Penance, and it made it a 'one more chapter' type of read.
We meet Celia, the main character, and we follow her life throughout. It's told in the present day, and then we learn of past events that have shaped both Celia and her friend from University Lily. I am not going into the story that's for you to read. All I will say is that there are sensitive subjects dealt with, and Charlotte Barnes dealt with them very well within the storyline.
If you love a twisty read that will leave you thinking afterwards, just pick up Penance and see.
Thanks to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound Books, and Charlotte Barnes for the gifted copy of the book to write my honest review.
Penance is a psychological suspense novel that has to be one of her best books. It's a complex and pretty dark at times story. I loved the pace of Penance, and it made it a 'one more chapter' type of read.
We meet Celia, the main character, and we follow her life throughout. It's told in the present day, and then we learn of past events that have shaped both Celia and her friend from University Lily. I am not going into the story that's for you to read. All I will say is that there are sensitive subjects dealt with, and Charlotte Barnes dealt with them very well within the storyline.
If you love a twisty read that will leave you thinking afterwards, just pick up Penance and see.
Thanks to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound Books, and Charlotte Barnes for the gifted copy of the book to write my honest review.
April 26, 2023
Penance by Charlotte Barnes.
She never reported the men who attacked her years ago. Now someone is taking revenge . . .
A good quick read. Although gripping I did feel that there was some unanswered questions but I still enjoyed it. I wasn't sure about the characters Celia Lily Simon (husband) Dawn (daughter). 5*.
She never reported the men who attacked her years ago. Now someone is taking revenge . . .
A good quick read. Although gripping I did feel that there was some unanswered questions but I still enjoyed it. I wasn't sure about the characters Celia Lily Simon (husband) Dawn (daughter). 5*.
April 15, 2023
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book did start really slow, and it was about 35% when it started to pick up, and when it picked up I struggled to put it down. I loved Simon and Celia's relationship, Simon would do anything for her. Lilith (Lily) and Celia's friendship was absolutely amazing, Lilith's love for Celia is so strong that she would destroy the earth for her. I could not believe how the book ended, I really enjoyed this book. Before reading I would suggest knowing the trigger warnings as there were mentions of sexual assault, which I know can be a lot for some people.
This book did start really slow, and it was about 35% when it started to pick up, and when it picked up I struggled to put it down. I loved Simon and Celia's relationship, Simon would do anything for her. Lilith (Lily) and Celia's friendship was absolutely amazing, Lilith's love for Celia is so strong that she would destroy the earth for her. I could not believe how the book ended, I really enjoyed this book. Before reading I would suggest knowing the trigger warnings as there were mentions of sexual assault, which I know can be a lot for some people.
May 3, 2023
Penance leads you down a path of what would you have done.
An attack happened in the past and wasn’t reported. Now someone is dead.
Who could do this and who knew.
Secrets but shared with best friends means pointing the finger, who at. Them or you?
Great read.
An attack happened in the past and wasn’t reported. Now someone is dead.
Who could do this and who knew.
Secrets but shared with best friends means pointing the finger, who at. Them or you?
Great read.
April 21, 2023
This started off on the slower side for me, although it was right up my street and I knew I would enjoy it.
Around the 45% mark it really picked up and I couldn't put it down.
Great read that as of yet, I havnt come across anything with a similar storyline so it was quite unique too.
Would definitely recommend.
Around the 45% mark it really picked up and I couldn't put it down.
Great read that as of yet, I havnt come across anything with a similar storyline so it was quite unique too.
Would definitely recommend.
April 11, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
Started off a bit slower but picked up pace towards the halfway point and found myself not wanting to put it down. It did feel a bit clunky at times but I’m not sure why so maybe it’s just me? The ‘reveal’ came quite early so I found the ending predictable but still enjoyed the read.
Started off a bit slower but picked up pace towards the halfway point and found myself not wanting to put it down. It did feel a bit clunky at times but I’m not sure why so maybe it’s just me? The ‘reveal’ came quite early so I found the ending predictable but still enjoyed the read.
April 22, 2023
On the surface, Celia has the ideal life: successful career, loving husband (Simon), beautiful daughter (Dawn) and a home to match. However, underneath it all, she’s hiding a painful secret that she has only ever shared with her best friend since University, Lily.
Lily is fiercely protective of Celia, but how far will she go, not only for her best friend but other women too? What is is that she does in her frequent mysterious away trips for work?
When Lily reveals her secret to Celia, Celia has a decision to make, one that will change her life forever.
I enjoyed reading this book. However, given the subject matter it touches on, it’s actually a light read. I was hoping for something grittier: something deeper. I don’t really feel like we get enough detail of what happened at university, and there isn’t enough depth to the main characters for me. There’s a lot of promise in this book, but it never really delivers for me - it’s too superficial, hinting at things and making the reader fill in the gaps for themselves.
That being said, there’s some truly heartwarming moments, some great wit and underneath it, there’s a very relevant message about the prevalence of systemic male violence in our society.
Lily is fiercely protective of Celia, but how far will she go, not only for her best friend but other women too? What is is that she does in her frequent mysterious away trips for work?
When Lily reveals her secret to Celia, Celia has a decision to make, one that will change her life forever.
I enjoyed reading this book. However, given the subject matter it touches on, it’s actually a light read. I was hoping for something grittier: something deeper. I don’t really feel like we get enough detail of what happened at university, and there isn’t enough depth to the main characters for me. There’s a lot of promise in this book, but it never really delivers for me - it’s too superficial, hinting at things and making the reader fill in the gaps for themselves.
That being said, there’s some truly heartwarming moments, some great wit and underneath it, there’s a very relevant message about the prevalence of systemic male violence in our society.
April 30, 2023
If you’re looking for a book full of twists, turns, surprises, and questions, this is a fast-paced thriller that will keep you guessing throughout.
About the Book
From the author of The Things I Didn’t Do: She never reported the men who attacked her years ago. Now someone is taking revenge . . .
Years ago at university, Celia’s boyfriend turned on her in a horrifying way—joining in with his friends to sexually assault her during a party. Celia didn’t go to the police. She told no one except her best friend, Lily. She just wanted to move on with her life.
Now, her settled life with her beloved husband and daughter has been disrupted when one of her assailants is found dead. Celia can’t help but wonder if the friend she confided in—who’s gone on to become a private investigator—could be capable of murder. So she decides to search for answers.
But her pursuit takes her down a path Celia never expected—and raises an even more terrifying question: Is she capable of murder herself?
My Thoughts
This book hooked me from the first chapter. The pace then carried me on at a break-neck speed (in a good way) as I needed to know what was going on and what was going to happen next. The first third of the book tricked me into thinking one thing, and the rest of the book was another surprise altogether.
The characters in this book were loveable – except for the ones that clearly weren’t supposed to be. The author developed them well. I felt Celia’s emotions and was drawn into the experience. The author developed Celia’s relationship with her family and friends beautifully. I loved the depiction of her little triangle family, since I have one of my own I always adore when they’re represented in media because even today we’re not considered the “norm.” I loved seeing her regular life alongside the wild, ridiculous situation happening to her.
This was such an interesting experience that challenged my own moral compass and ideas. It really highlighted some issues we have in our criminal justice system – even though I live in the United States, I know we have similar issues – and it’s sad. I could see this story taking place here as well. While, of course, it was a story about death, loss, and tragedy, it was a story about love, family, and friendship, and it was a story about what you would do if you found out that someone you love with everything you are had done something horrific. And, it was an exercise in a way of how that might change you as a person. I really enjoyed going on that journey with Celia as it changed her, and in some ways, healed her.
I haven’t read the author’s previous book, but I will definitely add it and future books to my list. This one was good. The plot, characters, and premise were exciting, relatable, and unique. I can’t wait to read more. I am honored to have been included in this tour by the author and Love Books Tours, which did not impact my review.
Who’s It For
If you love morally grey characters and exploring moral questions, this is a brilliant book for you. If you love fast-paced thrillers with twists and turns that keep you guessing, you will love this book.
Content Warning: Sexual assault, mention of child harm (off page), murder, PTSD, adult situations, adult language
First published at amorinacarlton.com
About the Book
From the author of The Things I Didn’t Do: She never reported the men who attacked her years ago. Now someone is taking revenge . . .
Years ago at university, Celia’s boyfriend turned on her in a horrifying way—joining in with his friends to sexually assault her during a party. Celia didn’t go to the police. She told no one except her best friend, Lily. She just wanted to move on with her life.
Now, her settled life with her beloved husband and daughter has been disrupted when one of her assailants is found dead. Celia can’t help but wonder if the friend she confided in—who’s gone on to become a private investigator—could be capable of murder. So she decides to search for answers.
But her pursuit takes her down a path Celia never expected—and raises an even more terrifying question: Is she capable of murder herself?
My Thoughts
This book hooked me from the first chapter. The pace then carried me on at a break-neck speed (in a good way) as I needed to know what was going on and what was going to happen next. The first third of the book tricked me into thinking one thing, and the rest of the book was another surprise altogether.
The characters in this book were loveable – except for the ones that clearly weren’t supposed to be. The author developed them well. I felt Celia’s emotions and was drawn into the experience. The author developed Celia’s relationship with her family and friends beautifully. I loved the depiction of her little triangle family, since I have one of my own I always adore when they’re represented in media because even today we’re not considered the “norm.” I loved seeing her regular life alongside the wild, ridiculous situation happening to her.
This was such an interesting experience that challenged my own moral compass and ideas. It really highlighted some issues we have in our criminal justice system – even though I live in the United States, I know we have similar issues – and it’s sad. I could see this story taking place here as well. While, of course, it was a story about death, loss, and tragedy, it was a story about love, family, and friendship, and it was a story about what you would do if you found out that someone you love with everything you are had done something horrific. And, it was an exercise in a way of how that might change you as a person. I really enjoyed going on that journey with Celia as it changed her, and in some ways, healed her.
I haven’t read the author’s previous book, but I will definitely add it and future books to my list. This one was good. The plot, characters, and premise were exciting, relatable, and unique. I can’t wait to read more. I am honored to have been included in this tour by the author and Love Books Tours, which did not impact my review.
Who’s It For
If you love morally grey characters and exploring moral questions, this is a brilliant book for you. If you love fast-paced thrillers with twists and turns that keep you guessing, you will love this book.
Content Warning: Sexual assault, mention of child harm (off page), murder, PTSD, adult situations, adult language
First published at amorinacarlton.com
April 28, 2023
When Celia was at university in her first year she had a boyfriend and his mates pulled his leg about the relationship. At the end of year party, he didn’t protect Celia and she was attacked by his mates. She never reported the attack to the police, she just wanted to get over it and move on with her life. There was only one person she told and that was her best friend, Lily.
As time moved on, Celia found a lovely man, got married and had a child. She was happy with her work which occasionally took her away from home for a day or two. Lily had become a private investigator and was very good at her job. Celia had put her past completely behind her until one day with work, it came back when she met a man who was one of her attackers. She spent some time with him then found out he was dead. She felt like she had killed him. When she came back from that trip, she was different because she thought she had done wrong and it wasn’t until she had spoken to Lily, things got straightened out. She wasn’t in the wrong. The police visited and asked her questions about the man and she answered as best she could.
She wanted to look up the details of his murder but didn’t want to leave a trail for the police to find if they came looking. She then got a call from a number she didn’t recognise and it turned out to be his wife, she wanted to talk to her. Apparently he had been researching her before his death, the wife had found her quickly because of the business. She agreed to meet her but didn’t know what she could tell her as she didn’t really know the man. The wife immediately thought they had been having an affair but Celia put her right on that and said no, they hadn’t. It was like picking teeth their conversation, Celia had no answers for her.
Who could have killed him? Could it have been Lily? Could Celia kill anyone?
This was a really intriguing book to read and I really enjoyed it. The book is well written and the writing is descriptive. The book is easy to read and I read it fairly quickly as well. I found Celia’s character quite interesting throughout the book, how she adapts herself to the situation is intriguing. I will be reading more by this author.
As time moved on, Celia found a lovely man, got married and had a child. She was happy with her work which occasionally took her away from home for a day or two. Lily had become a private investigator and was very good at her job. Celia had put her past completely behind her until one day with work, it came back when she met a man who was one of her attackers. She spent some time with him then found out he was dead. She felt like she had killed him. When she came back from that trip, she was different because she thought she had done wrong and it wasn’t until she had spoken to Lily, things got straightened out. She wasn’t in the wrong. The police visited and asked her questions about the man and she answered as best she could.
She wanted to look up the details of his murder but didn’t want to leave a trail for the police to find if they came looking. She then got a call from a number she didn’t recognise and it turned out to be his wife, she wanted to talk to her. Apparently he had been researching her before his death, the wife had found her quickly because of the business. She agreed to meet her but didn’t know what she could tell her as she didn’t really know the man. The wife immediately thought they had been having an affair but Celia put her right on that and said no, they hadn’t. It was like picking teeth their conversation, Celia had no answers for her.
Who could have killed him? Could it have been Lily? Could Celia kill anyone?
This was a really intriguing book to read and I really enjoyed it. The book is well written and the writing is descriptive. The book is easy to read and I read it fairly quickly as well. I found Celia’s character quite interesting throughout the book, how she adapts herself to the situation is intriguing. I will be reading more by this author.
May 6, 2023
I found it difficult to begin with, it took time to get used to the authors writing style. I loved the mention of trolls and being taken back to the 90s. I wasn’t sure where and when the plot was going to develop but by the end of chapter one I was gripped. It’s really interesting how the author naturally builds things up and gives you subtle hints in every chapter I think this is definitely what fully grasped my attention. You hit a point where you come across she and this point all the questions started to come at once. Who is she?
Honestly the one thing I love about this book is the mystery, when you think you know who she is I was still doubting myself. Then the flip back in time and I was like noooo what’s going on now. This books layout is epic. I didn’t expect the twist of dark events from the past taking place but now the initial death started to make sense. The twists keep coming when Celia started to suspect Lily and I was so caught up in trying to predict the ending that I found I was further doubting myself. This book is fast paced, twisty, dark and full of awesome
characters.
Honestly the one thing I love about this book is the mystery, when you think you know who she is I was still doubting myself. Then the flip back in time and I was like noooo what’s going on now. This books layout is epic. I didn’t expect the twist of dark events from the past taking place but now the initial death started to make sense. The twists keep coming when Celia started to suspect Lily and I was so caught up in trying to predict the ending that I found I was further doubting myself. This book is fast paced, twisty, dark and full of awesome
characters.
April 22, 2023
Years ago Celia suffered a serious sexual assault by her then boyfriend and his friends. She told no one but her best friend Lily. Current day Celia is happily married with a daughter, has a successful career and is still best friends with Lily. Celia’s frequent use of grounding techniques shows us she still struggles to deal with what happened to her.
Then the perpetrators of the crime against her start turning up dead, as one of them had recently been searching for Celia on social media naturally the police are keen to understand the links, still Celia reveals nothing of her past trauma.
Then Celia begins to be suspicious of Lily’s long absences and what she learns will change her life forever!
I agree with some reviews that overall there are some significant gaps in the character profiles and chronology, why did Theo her boyfriend behave the way he did, why did Lily go down the path she did and how did Celia cope with the trauma to be in the place she is now. Her husband Simon and the police seemed particularly passive.
Overall a good, easy read.
Then the perpetrators of the crime against her start turning up dead, as one of them had recently been searching for Celia on social media naturally the police are keen to understand the links, still Celia reveals nothing of her past trauma.
Then Celia begins to be suspicious of Lily’s long absences and what she learns will change her life forever!
I agree with some reviews that overall there are some significant gaps in the character profiles and chronology, why did Theo her boyfriend behave the way he did, why did Lily go down the path she did and how did Celia cope with the trauma to be in the place she is now. Her husband Simon and the police seemed particularly passive.
Overall a good, easy read.
May 4, 2023
Celia has a loving husband, an adorable daughter, and a successful career but she holds a dark secret she’s only ever told one person, her best friend. When someone related to Celia’s secret is found murder, it sets off a chain reaction of events that leads Celia to doubt her best friend. Can Celia’s friendship survive the search for answers or will Celia’s perfect life go up in flames?
I recommend going in blind to this book and being completely open to all possible outcomes. Early on as I was reading I thought it might be headed one direction but it went the opposite and surprisingly I like how it turned out. Ultimately not totally kosher but fitting for the resolution. I think Celia and Lily are complimentary characters-their friendship has survived this long because of their oppositeness and how they balance each other out. I thought Celia’s husband and daughter were great (and necessary) secondary characters and who’s kid hasn’t gone through the Frozen obsessed phase.
Thank you @lovebookstours for this gifted ebook as part of this book tour.
I recommend going in blind to this book and being completely open to all possible outcomes. Early on as I was reading I thought it might be headed one direction but it went the opposite and surprisingly I like how it turned out. Ultimately not totally kosher but fitting for the resolution. I think Celia and Lily are complimentary characters-their friendship has survived this long because of their oppositeness and how they balance each other out. I thought Celia’s husband and daughter were great (and necessary) secondary characters and who’s kid hasn’t gone through the Frozen obsessed phase.
Thank you @lovebookstours for this gifted ebook as part of this book tour.
May 3, 2023
Penance follows main character Celia as she is trying to live her normal life as a survivor of abuse, after she was sexually assaulted as a young adult, however all of her memories and feelings/fears are flooding back after those that were responsible end up deceased under investigative circumstances.
This was a completely gripping read that was highly captivating and engrossing, there is some mystery and intrigue in the first half of the book, until the plot thickens and you discover the cause of the abusers deaths, and then the story takes a twist I really did not see coming, and the books ending really does leave the reader on a curious note, as I feel there could be a sequel or more to come from Celia and Lily.
This was a quick read with some fantastic characters, I really liked Celia and felt for her throughout, Simon was a great husband and I liked how much he supported and cared for Celia, there were just a few times he felt a little bit of a pushover or blindsided, so I feel his character could have been developed a bit more in that sense. Lily was also a well written character and I loved how fiercely protective she is, although she does leave the question of what would you do for your best friend.
This is a great crime read, that is definitely one to read, I would just recommend reading the trigger warnings, as there is mention of sexual assault, rape, gang rape, murder, torture and death
This was a completely gripping read that was highly captivating and engrossing, there is some mystery and intrigue in the first half of the book, until the plot thickens and you discover the cause of the abusers deaths, and then the story takes a twist I really did not see coming, and the books ending really does leave the reader on a curious note, as I feel there could be a sequel or more to come from Celia and Lily.
This was a quick read with some fantastic characters, I really liked Celia and felt for her throughout, Simon was a great husband and I liked how much he supported and cared for Celia, there were just a few times he felt a little bit of a pushover or blindsided, so I feel his character could have been developed a bit more in that sense. Lily was also a well written character and I loved how fiercely protective she is, although she does leave the question of what would you do for your best friend.
This is a great crime read, that is definitely one to read, I would just recommend reading the trigger warnings, as there is mention of sexual assault, rape, gang rape, murder, torture and death
May 4, 2023
Celia has a secret that she hasn't told anyone apart from her best friend Lily. While at University, Celia was sexual assaulted. Even though she has everything, Simon her loving husband, Dawn her daughter, a beautiful home and a successful career, she is still struggling with what happened and is finding it hard. Lily would do anything for Celia, that's why she has always looked out for her. But Lily also keeps secrets for other women, she also goes on mysterious trips, but why?
Someone from Lily and Celia's past starts looking for Celia on social media and then is found dead, but why? Does Lily's last trip have anything to do with it? What will Celia say when she finds out why Lily keeps going on these secret trips and what will it do to their friendship.
I have enjoyed reading this story, and it did make me want to know more. I know the topic covered isn't a nice one, but it's something that does need to be talked about
Someone from Lily and Celia's past starts looking for Celia on social media and then is found dead, but why? Does Lily's last trip have anything to do with it? What will Celia say when she finds out why Lily keeps going on these secret trips and what will it do to their friendship.
I have enjoyed reading this story, and it did make me want to know more. I know the topic covered isn't a nice one, but it's something that does need to be talked about
April 6, 2023
This was a really enjoyable, if slightly far fetched in places read, and I'm grateful to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
Celia has lived for years with the secret of being gang raped while at university by a group of her then boyfriend's friends. Now married with a child, her world is rocked when the police contact her telling her that one of the men involved has died, but before his death had been following her on social media.
Her husband has no idea, so she speaks to Lily her best friend, with surprising consequences.
Celia and Lily's relationship is really nicely written, and although parts of the story are a little far fetched, the plot moves along at a good pace, and there are some nice touches of humour.
I'll look out for more by this author.
Celia has lived for years with the secret of being gang raped while at university by a group of her then boyfriend's friends. Now married with a child, her world is rocked when the police contact her telling her that one of the men involved has died, but before his death had been following her on social media.
Her husband has no idea, so she speaks to Lily her best friend, with surprising consequences.
Celia and Lily's relationship is really nicely written, and although parts of the story are a little far fetched, the plot moves along at a good pace, and there are some nice touches of humour.
I'll look out for more by this author.
April 23, 2023
This book started off slow but quickly hits its stride making it difficult to put down. I really liked reading the different perspectives and the flashback in time to the sexual assault was done in a thoughtful way. This concept of revenge was an interesting idea to explore through this story. With a little nuclear family of Celia, Simon and their daughter Dawn, we get the version of normalcy but the reality of the impact of such an event on your whole life. I have to say my favourite character in this story was Lily - she is the epitome of a best friend. I don't want to give anything away but she is brilliantly written. I would love a revisit to see where both Celia and Lily's lives go from here
TW : sexual assault, suicide, murder
Thank you to Love Books Tours for my free copy in exchange for an honest review
TW : sexual assault, suicide, murder
Thank you to Love Books Tours for my free copy in exchange for an honest review
May 7, 2023
When Celia was a first year student at University, she looked at life through rose coloured glasses, the thing about rose coloured glasses is sometimes you don't see the red flags. One night at a house party she is assaulted by her then boyfriend and his friends ..Scarred and broken inside, she tells no one , apart from her best friend Lily ..she puts that night into a box and pushes it to the back of her mind .Now Celia , a literary talent representative, is married to Simon, they have a beautiful daughter , and their life is happy and settled .When Celia finds out that one of her attackers has been murdered, as the memories of that night come flooding back ..she sets out to find who killed him..But is revenge a dish best served cold ...or is it an eye for an eye ...and the whole world is blind ?
April 19, 2023
Celia was at University when she was gang raped, by friends of her then boyfriend and he did nothing to stop it. She never reported it, she only told her best friend Lily. She managed to put it behind her, she got married, had a child and was getting on with her life. Then one if the gang turns up dead and Celia is questioned by the police as the dead man had been looking for her online. Then more dead bodies turn up and Celia does some investigating of her own and she discovers the killer. Does she turn them in or does she become an accomplice to the next victim?
This was my first book by this author but it won’t be my last.
Thank you to the publishers for my advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author but it won’t be my last.
Thank you to the publishers for my advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2023
An enjoyable read with a good mix of seriousness and humour, if slightly far-fetched in places.
Celia was charmed by her university boyfriend, so much so that she didn’t realise until too late that he and his so-called buddies were evil.
Now married with a child, she thought she’d moved on, tried to forget, put coping mechanisms in place, until years later when someone is exacting revenge on the gang. Celia has no idea who – there was only one other person who knew what happened that night – her best friend Lily.
Things soon come to light showing that the past always catches up with you and sometimes you only have two choices – punishment or penance.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the eARC.
Celia was charmed by her university boyfriend, so much so that she didn’t realise until too late that he and his so-called buddies were evil.
Now married with a child, she thought she’d moved on, tried to forget, put coping mechanisms in place, until years later when someone is exacting revenge on the gang. Celia has no idea who – there was only one other person who knew what happened that night – her best friend Lily.
Things soon come to light showing that the past always catches up with you and sometimes you only have two choices – punishment or penance.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the eARC.
April 23, 2023
This is the second book I have read by this author and started off slowly and then the pace picked
Up not sure what genre to describe it as as wasn’t a typical thriller but wasn’t just a crime story either.
The author has cover the hard hitting topic of gang rape and sexual assault during the story which I feel is important to mention as might be a trigger for some people.
The story covered how what happened to cella at university has haunted her life since and the methods she has used to cope and the strong bond with her friend lily who would do absolutely anything for her and how on the surface it looks like Celia has it all the loving husband and beautiful daughter but only her best friend knows the truth
Up not sure what genre to describe it as as wasn’t a typical thriller but wasn’t just a crime story either.
The author has cover the hard hitting topic of gang rape and sexual assault during the story which I feel is important to mention as might be a trigger for some people.
The story covered how what happened to cella at university has haunted her life since and the methods she has used to cope and the strong bond with her friend lily who would do absolutely anything for her and how on the surface it looks like Celia has it all the loving husband and beautiful daughter but only her best friend knows the truth
April 25, 2023
This was, despite the subject matter, a relatively quick and easy read. It really focuses on the relationships between the characters and how events from the past can impact in unusual ways on the present. I read it really quickly and thoroughly enjoyed it. I wouldn't say it was overly deep or dark but nevertheless it did make comment on the levels of violence against women that is currently being experienced in our society. The way in which these characters are required to pay penance or be punished, is a bit different and was, rather unexpected.
There could have been more character development and there are some unanswered questions however this did not spoil my enjoyment of this book.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
There could have been more character development and there are some unanswered questions however this did not spoil my enjoyment of this book.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
May 5, 2023
This is a fascinating read. I also loved the cover of this book. The writing style drew me in. Celia was sexually assaulted by her then-boyfriend and his buddies years ago. She only told her best friend, Lily. Celia is now happily married with a daughter, has a successful career, and remains best friends with Lily. Celia's frequent use of grounding techniques demonstrates that she still struggles to accept what happened to her.
Then the perpetrators of the crime against her start turning up dead. Because one of them had lately been searching for Celia on social media, the police were naturally curious about the connections. Still, Celia remains silent about her past tragedy. A book that keeps you on your toes.
Then the perpetrators of the crime against her start turning up dead. Because one of them had lately been searching for Celia on social media, the police were naturally curious about the connections. Still, Celia remains silent about her past tragedy. A book that keeps you on your toes.
May 9, 2023
Celia was raped by friends of her boyfriend at university years ago. She did not report it to the police but told only her close friend Lily. Years later Celia learns of the death of one of her assailants. This arouses her curiosity. Later she hears that her former boyfriend Theo has fallen to his death from a cliff.
This leads her to her friend Lily who is now a private investigator. Her clients seem to be mostly women who have been damaged physically or psychologically by men. Celia figures out that Lily is avenging the wrongs wreaked upon these women. Is she also stalking Celia's assailants?
How far is Celia herself prepared to go to seek revenge? A well-written engrossing novel.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for an Advance Review copy.
This leads her to her friend Lily who is now a private investigator. Her clients seem to be mostly women who have been damaged physically or psychologically by men. Celia figures out that Lily is avenging the wrongs wreaked upon these women. Is she also stalking Celia's assailants?
How far is Celia herself prepared to go to seek revenge? A well-written engrossing novel.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for an Advance Review copy.
May 10, 2023
I was thrilled to get my hands on this book. The cover appealed to me and the synopsis really piqued my interest. I was not disappointed. We all know I love a story with a strong female lead and Penance has two, Celia and Lilith. Well, three if you count Celia’s brilliant daughter Dawn. This is a story of friendship, justice and revenge. It is exquisitely written and the scene descriptions are sublime. I was absolutely hooked from the beginning. I read in two sittings. Would probably have managed it in one gulp if I hadn’t had to sleep like a wimp. The plot is fast paced and it’s one that eggs the reader on to delve deeper and read more. If you love a psychological thriller give this one a go.
May 10, 2023
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The prologue was very intriguing and had me wondering who was murdering these men until 35% of the book when the story really picks ups. The story is very well written and descriptive. It shows you what can happen when past traumas can impact you years later out of nowhere.
The relationship between the characters, especially Lilly and Celia's was great. I really enjoyed Lilly's character and how fierce she's when it comes to Celia.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. There were a few things left unanswered and the author provided enough information for you to figure out what was happening.
CW: Please read all triggers and content waiting. Ex:
Sexual assault mentioned.
The prologue was very intriguing and had me wondering who was murdering these men until 35% of the book when the story really picks ups. The story is very well written and descriptive. It shows you what can happen when past traumas can impact you years later out of nowhere.
The relationship between the characters, especially Lilly and Celia's was great. I really enjoyed Lilly's character and how fierce she's when it comes to Celia.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. There were a few things left unanswered and the author provided enough information for you to figure out what was happening.
CW: Please read all triggers and content waiting. Ex:
Sexual assault mentioned.
April 11, 2023
Celia was gang raped by people she trusted. Her own 'boyfriend' at the time was in on it. She told her best friend Lily only, then put it behind her. Years later, one of the 'gang' was looking for her. He ended up dead in an odd place. The police and even his wife want to know why he was trying to find her. Celia has no idea, but it brought back those memories she has tried so hard to bury. But he isn't the only one found dead from that time. The police want answers. When Celia discovers who the killer is she is torn between her feelings of what to do. What happens may surprise you. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
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