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Whitley & Keal #1
A Child is Torn: Innocence Lost
When dependable Evan Madison fails to show up for work, police are dispatched to his home. His ten-year-old son, Brad, is discovered inside, unharmed and seemingly alone. He is stoic, sitting in front of the television playing his favorite video game, Super Mario—and he’s covered in blood.
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he’s seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad’s not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
Detective Jean Whitely rounds out the investigative team; and she suspects there is much more to the case than what meets the eye. The happily married mother of two in unwavering in her determination to uncover the real truth about Brad. Was he abused? Or is he the product of an evil seed born to kill?
As the layers of truth about Brad are systematically peeled away, you will be compelled to ask yourself, Which is the more dominate factor in contributing to who we are—NATURE or NURTURE?
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he’s seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad’s not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
Detective Jean Whitely rounds out the investigative team; and she suspects there is much more to the case than what meets the eye. The happily married mother of two in unwavering in her determination to uncover the real truth about Brad. Was he abused? Or is he the product of an evil seed born to kill?
As the layers of truth about Brad are systematically peeled away, you will be compelled to ask yourself, Which is the more dominate factor in contributing to who we are—NATURE or NURTURE?
205 pages, Paperback
First published July 11, 2012
334 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
June 25, 2014
There is only one right way to begin this review, and that is with a huge “Thank You!” shout out to the Psychological Thrillers Group on Goodreads. You guys rock! You refused to let this author fly under my radar for another second and I could not be more grateful.
Always a fan of that which is puzzling, frightening, and quite incomprehensible; A Child is Torn is the perfect tale for me. First, this book is scary. Not the nail-biting, Stephen King/Dean Koontz; how-I-am-ever-going-to-finish-this-book-with-my-eyes-closed, scary; but more the horrifying, Danny Boyd/Bill Bitner; chilling, creeping, this-will-forever-be-in-my-brain, scary. The kind that, as you read, you think; okay, this is frightening...and creepy...and...haunting; but that angst doesn't end when you close the book. Rather, the terror settles deeply in your bones only to leak out when you least expect. A seemingly innocuous situation suddenly slams you straight into a scene from the book. Once again, obsesses with young Brad; pondering, wondering “what if…”, “how would I handle….” and the ever-present, “why?”
Quickly immersed in Brad’s own personal and perplexing Hell; it occurred to me: maybe Ms. Whidden didn’t write this book at all. I caught myself reading ridiculously fast, at times, because I felt compelled to keep up with the frantic pace of so many words spilling onto page after page; almost as if the author was more of a channel for a story that demanded to be told than the creator of it.
Filled with rich, vibrant (yet authentic) characters; this reader was promptly invested in the plight, the ebb and flow of relationships and the individual and unique opinions about Brad and the tragedy. Solving the mystery became imperative, not just for the sake of a little boy, but in order to alleviate the pain and suffering of all those quirky people that I’d quickly grown fond of.
The mystery is of epic proportions. Smart, educated people are forced to challenge logic, evidence and cold hard facts if, for no other reason, than keeping hope alive. Accepting would mean reevaluating beliefs and understandings developed over a life-time. No more tidy pigeon-holes, good-bye black and white; wrong and right; hello complicated questions spiraling downward, leading only to more queries.
The ending….well, that’s for you to decide. Right now, I need to clear off some space on my Jonathan Kellerman bookshelf to make room for more Dawn Kopman Whidden. I am so looking forward to reading each and every one her books.
Always a fan of that which is puzzling, frightening, and quite incomprehensible; A Child is Torn is the perfect tale for me. First, this book is scary. Not the nail-biting, Stephen King/Dean Koontz; how-I-am-ever-going-to-finish-this-book-with-my-eyes-closed, scary; but more the horrifying, Danny Boyd/Bill Bitner; chilling, creeping, this-will-forever-be-in-my-brain, scary. The kind that, as you read, you think; okay, this is frightening...and creepy...and...haunting; but that angst doesn't end when you close the book. Rather, the terror settles deeply in your bones only to leak out when you least expect. A seemingly innocuous situation suddenly slams you straight into a scene from the book. Once again, obsesses with young Brad; pondering, wondering “what if…”, “how would I handle….” and the ever-present, “why?”
Quickly immersed in Brad’s own personal and perplexing Hell; it occurred to me: maybe Ms. Whidden didn’t write this book at all. I caught myself reading ridiculously fast, at times, because I felt compelled to keep up with the frantic pace of so many words spilling onto page after page; almost as if the author was more of a channel for a story that demanded to be told than the creator of it.
Filled with rich, vibrant (yet authentic) characters; this reader was promptly invested in the plight, the ebb and flow of relationships and the individual and unique opinions about Brad and the tragedy. Solving the mystery became imperative, not just for the sake of a little boy, but in order to alleviate the pain and suffering of all those quirky people that I’d quickly grown fond of.
The mystery is of epic proportions. Smart, educated people are forced to challenge logic, evidence and cold hard facts if, for no other reason, than keeping hope alive. Accepting would mean reevaluating beliefs and understandings developed over a life-time. No more tidy pigeon-holes, good-bye black and white; wrong and right; hello complicated questions spiraling downward, leading only to more queries.
The ending….well, that’s for you to decide. Right now, I need to clear off some space on my Jonathan Kellerman bookshelf to make room for more Dawn Kopman Whidden. I am so looking forward to reading each and every one her books.
January 6, 2019
I was super duper excited to read this book after devouring the synopsis. A 10 year old boy confesses to killing both his parents, this tiny little cutie pie? No? Really? Surely not? Bring it on!
I loved the start of the book, it was really well executed, the discovery of the gruesome murders and the journey of taking little Brad into care, let me share some outline:
When dependable Evan Madison fails to show up for work, police are dispatched to his home. His ten-year-old son, Brad, is discovered inside, unharmed and seemingly alone. He is stoic, sitting in front of the television playing his favorite video game, Super Mario—and he’s covered in blood.
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he’s seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad’s not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
What I was expecting was a crime/psychological thriller that focused on the boy, evaluating him, lots forensic processing, police work and the search for the truth. I got that, but it's it small doses. It is there, fingerprints and the like, but the book quickly shifted gear.
What I did not expect is the relationships/romance in the book, it was a bit like reading two different books and I felt the relationship building and scenes detracted from what should have been a five star read with a plot around this boy who may or may not be a cold blooded murderer. But I still enjoyed the book overall. For many, this won't bother them, it just took me by surprise.
I found myself wandering in my mind over the romance, the characters connecting, the dialogues. I just wanted the good stuff, and I think that's because from the cover to the synopsis it's how the book is portrayed. I wanted more dark stuff as it was good! But again, just me maybe.
The child's entire family is investigated as they try to piece together what makes Brad tick, so there are a lot of characters, some you like, others you will detest. I just wanted more time spent on Brad as a central character, I kind of wanted more depth from him in the novel.
It's well written, Dawn has a great way with words, and huge potential as a writer. I am going to read more books from Dawn, as this was my first and I would like to experience another to compare.
3 paw prints from me, overall a good read! I'm keen to review the next book, watch this space.
For more of my reviews, book talk, book giveaways, and more go to:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Many thanks to the author for allowing me to read and review the book, I will be reading more from you Dawn.
I loved the start of the book, it was really well executed, the discovery of the gruesome murders and the journey of taking little Brad into care, let me share some outline:
When dependable Evan Madison fails to show up for work, police are dispatched to his home. His ten-year-old son, Brad, is discovered inside, unharmed and seemingly alone. He is stoic, sitting in front of the television playing his favorite video game, Super Mario—and he’s covered in blood.
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he’s seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad’s not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
What I was expecting was a crime/psychological thriller that focused on the boy, evaluating him, lots forensic processing, police work and the search for the truth. I got that, but it's it small doses. It is there, fingerprints and the like, but the book quickly shifted gear.
What I did not expect is the relationships/romance in the book, it was a bit like reading two different books and I felt the relationship building and scenes detracted from what should have been a five star read with a plot around this boy who may or may not be a cold blooded murderer. But I still enjoyed the book overall. For many, this won't bother them, it just took me by surprise.
I found myself wandering in my mind over the romance, the characters connecting, the dialogues. I just wanted the good stuff, and I think that's because from the cover to the synopsis it's how the book is portrayed. I wanted more dark stuff as it was good! But again, just me maybe.
The child's entire family is investigated as they try to piece together what makes Brad tick, so there are a lot of characters, some you like, others you will detest. I just wanted more time spent on Brad as a central character, I kind of wanted more depth from him in the novel.
It's well written, Dawn has a great way with words, and huge potential as a writer. I am going to read more books from Dawn, as this was my first and I would like to experience another to compare.
3 paw prints from me, overall a good read! I'm keen to review the next book, watch this space.
For more of my reviews, book talk, book giveaways, and more go to:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Many thanks to the author for allowing me to read and review the book, I will be reading more from you Dawn.
September 29, 2019
This is my own work.... I hope you come across my book and take a chance on it. AMAZON and has a free sample.. GO AHEAD and take a chance on me.
September 1, 2014
I won a copy of "Stolen" by Dawn Kopman Whidden, through the Goodreads Giveaway Contest. As I normally like to read the books in sequence, to get more complete background character information, I went to check on her previous first two books...and decided I had to read them all. This is the review of her first novel, " A Child is Torn: Innocence Lost". My first overall impression is What a Creepy cover Picture!
This novel captured my attention right from the beginning. But classifying it under a specific genre is more difficult. This novel is more of a "Whydunit", than a "Whodunit". Why would such a sweet quiet ten year old little boy murder both his parents in cold blood, with a baseball bat? He didn't look capable of committing this terrible act of evil. A young child is found playing a video game in his living room; alone, except for his dead parents upstairs in their bedroom. He says, “I did it,” yet no one can believe it; the boy is silent. Why were the parents murdered? What really happened, and what is in the background of this family? Child abuse? A killer from outside the family?
Each chapter is devoted to an individual/character in the book, and allows for the reader to gain a better insight through multiple POV's, of their mindset, as a result of this terrible tragedy. This novel is character-driven and the characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley.
This novel deals with the psychological issues of the drama, and deals with the author's discussion of the Nature vs. Nurture debate, a very thought-provoking concept.
Now anxiously looking forward to starting "Faceless A Mystery", her second book. Thank you Dawn for allowing me to read your memorable novel.
This novel captured my attention right from the beginning. But classifying it under a specific genre is more difficult. This novel is more of a "Whydunit", than a "Whodunit". Why would such a sweet quiet ten year old little boy murder both his parents in cold blood, with a baseball bat? He didn't look capable of committing this terrible act of evil. A young child is found playing a video game in his living room; alone, except for his dead parents upstairs in their bedroom. He says, “I did it,” yet no one can believe it; the boy is silent. Why were the parents murdered? What really happened, and what is in the background of this family? Child abuse? A killer from outside the family?
Each chapter is devoted to an individual/character in the book, and allows for the reader to gain a better insight through multiple POV's, of their mindset, as a result of this terrible tragedy. This novel is character-driven and the characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley.
This novel deals with the psychological issues of the drama, and deals with the author's discussion of the Nature vs. Nurture debate, a very thought-provoking concept.
Now anxiously looking forward to starting "Faceless A Mystery", her second book. Thank you Dawn for allowing me to read your memorable novel.
November 4, 2014
When dependable Evan Madison fails to show up for work, police are dispatched to his home. His ten-year-old son, Brad, is discovered inside, unharmed and seemingly alone. He is stoic, sitting in front of the television playing his favorite video game, Super Mario--and he's covered in blood.
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he's seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad's not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
This is a very well written book that asks the age old question of nature vs nurture !
The characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley - without ever becoming the slightest bit confusing or hard to follow. Very smoothly and nicely done!
The strength of this book to me is not the main story of the young boy, but the great characters, personalities of the three main characters, and also of Marty's father, The Captain.
Gripping and sometimes quite comical with the light hearted side of Hope, Marty and the Captain, and also Jean and here typical male cops she works with.
Different from your usually action thriller, just a great story of relationships.
I hope to see these characters in further books.
Veteran Police Officer Marty Keal is the first on the scene. With his many years of experience, he thinks he's seen it all. That is, until he discovers Brad's not really alone after all. Upstairs in their bedroom lies the brutally bludgeoned and deceased bodies of both his mother and his father. When questioned, Brad confesses to the horrific murders.
When Brad is transferred to a local mental health institution for children, Dr. Hope Rubin is brought in to evaluate and treat the child. A preliminary investigation shows no evidence of any kind of mistreatment in his past. She must determine the disturbing truth: Is Brad telling the truth? Or is he covering for someone else?
This is a very well written book that asks the age old question of nature vs nurture !
The characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley - without ever becoming the slightest bit confusing or hard to follow. Very smoothly and nicely done!
The strength of this book to me is not the main story of the young boy, but the great characters, personalities of the three main characters, and also of Marty's father, The Captain.
Gripping and sometimes quite comical with the light hearted side of Hope, Marty and the Captain, and also Jean and here typical male cops she works with.
Different from your usually action thriller, just a great story of relationships.
I hope to see these characters in further books.
November 22, 2017
3.5 stars.
10-year-old Brad is found playing video games while the battered bodies of his mother and father are discovered upstairs in their bedroom. Brad confesses that he hurt his parents and is sent to an institution for children with emotional and behavioral problems. Here, Dr. Hope Rubin is tasked to evaluate Brad and find out what exactly happened in the Madison’s family home.
Told from various perspectives and switching between first- and third-person narrative, readers get a thorough insight into the personal and professional lives of Hope as well as the police officers involved in the case: veteran officer Marty Keal and detective Jean Whitley. What surprised me was that there was very little to be discovered about Brad.
I generally don't like stories that switch between first and third person, but that's just a personal pet peeve. Overall, this was an interesting story that held my attention throughout; certainly helped by the fact that Dr. Hope and the two police officers were very likeable and realistic characters that were easy to relate to.
It wasn't quite the story I had expected at the outset, but if you don't mind a little bit of romance mixed in with some family drama, then you'll likely find something to enjoy here.
The audio was narrated by Beth A. McIntosh. She has a very pleasant voice and her pacing was great. I would have liked a bit more variety between the different characters' voices, but in general a good audio performance.
I received a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for a review.
10-year-old Brad is found playing video games while the battered bodies of his mother and father are discovered upstairs in their bedroom. Brad confesses that he hurt his parents and is sent to an institution for children with emotional and behavioral problems. Here, Dr. Hope Rubin is tasked to evaluate Brad and find out what exactly happened in the Madison’s family home.
Told from various perspectives and switching between first- and third-person narrative, readers get a thorough insight into the personal and professional lives of Hope as well as the police officers involved in the case: veteran officer Marty Keal and detective Jean Whitley. What surprised me was that there was very little to be discovered about Brad.
I generally don't like stories that switch between first and third person, but that's just a personal pet peeve. Overall, this was an interesting story that held my attention throughout; certainly helped by the fact that Dr. Hope and the two police officers were very likeable and realistic characters that were easy to relate to.
It wasn't quite the story I had expected at the outset, but if you don't mind a little bit of romance mixed in with some family drama, then you'll likely find something to enjoy here.
The audio was narrated by Beth A. McIntosh. She has a very pleasant voice and her pacing was great. I would have liked a bit more variety between the different characters' voices, but in general a good audio performance.
I received a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for a review.
September 12, 2014
Its been a while since I've read such a gripping story as this. I read a lot of books as a reviewer and when this one was suggested by on online friend of mine who reads a lot of thrillers I was kind of reluctant due to the book cover. Then I read the blurb. It intrigued me and the author gave me this to read an review.
I was only 1/4 of the way through when I recognised that this author has real talent. She has also written about a subject matter that kept my attention throughout.
Its not just about Brad the little boy whose parents were murdered, by him? or by someone else? you will have to read that to find out.
Its about all the different people involved, the Grandparents on both sides, the police, the school teacher, neighbour...oh endless and how interesting it all became. Yes its about Brad, then there is the leading Investigator and the Child doctor who works with troubled kids. So much in this book to keep you turning the pages.
I cannot rave about this author enough, she certainly took an unusual slant on something so misunderstood I'm in awe of her writing ability.
I've truly found another author that actually weaves a different story than the norm that is so fashionable at the moment. This book has certainly stood out in the crowd of my 134 books I've read this year.
I didn't know how this author was going to conclude this, but she did, and very cleverly. If I could have stood up at the end giving her applause, I would still be standing now shouting Encore Encore!
I now have Faceless. Which I will be reading very soon.
I was only 1/4 of the way through when I recognised that this author has real talent. She has also written about a subject matter that kept my attention throughout.
Its not just about Brad the little boy whose parents were murdered, by him? or by someone else? you will have to read that to find out.
Its about all the different people involved, the Grandparents on both sides, the police, the school teacher, neighbour...oh endless and how interesting it all became. Yes its about Brad, then there is the leading Investigator and the Child doctor who works with troubled kids. So much in this book to keep you turning the pages.
I cannot rave about this author enough, she certainly took an unusual slant on something so misunderstood I'm in awe of her writing ability.
I've truly found another author that actually weaves a different story than the norm that is so fashionable at the moment. This book has certainly stood out in the crowd of my 134 books I've read this year.
I didn't know how this author was going to conclude this, but she did, and very cleverly. If I could have stood up at the end giving her applause, I would still be standing now shouting Encore Encore!
I now have Faceless. Which I will be reading very soon.
January 28, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I ended up reading it really quickly as I just wanted to know what was happening and found myself unable to put it down. The story is based around a 10 year old boy – Brad - who is found by police, covered in blood, playing his playstation with both his parents brutally murdered upstairs.
The really strong part of the book for me was the surrounding cast of characters from the psychiatrist to the different police officers, we get to know them all and their point of view as they try to solve this case and uncover the truth about what happened. I loved these characters, their passion for their jobs and the glimpses of their own family life that we also got. I would love to see these characters reappearing in another book as I feel they could develop really well as part of a series but mostly because I just want to know more about them!
There is also a theme of nature versus nature running through the book and for personal reasons this is an important part of my own life. I felt it was well researched and explained in book.
My overall impression is that this is an interesting and thought provoking read, with characters that I really really like and I will be looking out for more from this author in the future.
**note I was given a free copy to review but this in no way influenced my thoughts on the book. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The really strong part of the book for me was the surrounding cast of characters from the psychiatrist to the different police officers, we get to know them all and their point of view as they try to solve this case and uncover the truth about what happened. I loved these characters, their passion for their jobs and the glimpses of their own family life that we also got. I would love to see these characters reappearing in another book as I feel they could develop really well as part of a series but mostly because I just want to know more about them!
There is also a theme of nature versus nature running through the book and for personal reasons this is an important part of my own life. I felt it was well researched and explained in book.
My overall impression is that this is an interesting and thought provoking read, with characters that I really really like and I will be looking out for more from this author in the future.
**note I was given a free copy to review but this in no way influenced my thoughts on the book. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 27, 2012
Review shortly-wow, what a book!
Review of A Child is Torn: Innocence Lost
5 Stars
I don’t very often use this phrase, but here it applies: this novel totally “blew me away.” I could not but read this in the space of a few hours, as I was not about to put the book aside unfinished. That ending! The author does give a clue or two, but believe me, the denouement is not telegraphed and so comes as an unexpected revelation, to the characters as well as to the reader. Yet-logically it all works out, and after four and a half decades of self-study of psychology and a baccalaureate degree in the subject, it makes perfect sense, and I appreciate the ways in which the author works out the plot; and her discussion of the Nature vs. Nurture debate.
A young child, age ten, is found playing a video game in his living room; alone, except for his bludgeoned parents upstairs in their bedroom. He says, “I did it,” yet no one can believe it; the boy is small for his age, almost silent. How could he have? Well, read on and find out: did he or didn’t he? Why were the parents murdered? What really happened, and what is in the background of this family? Child abuse? A killer from outside the family? Be prepared for nearly continuous surprises in this very, very, rewarding novel.
Review of A Child is Torn: Innocence Lost
5 Stars
I don’t very often use this phrase, but here it applies: this novel totally “blew me away.” I could not but read this in the space of a few hours, as I was not about to put the book aside unfinished. That ending! The author does give a clue or two, but believe me, the denouement is not telegraphed and so comes as an unexpected revelation, to the characters as well as to the reader. Yet-logically it all works out, and after four and a half decades of self-study of psychology and a baccalaureate degree in the subject, it makes perfect sense, and I appreciate the ways in which the author works out the plot; and her discussion of the Nature vs. Nurture debate.
A young child, age ten, is found playing a video game in his living room; alone, except for his bludgeoned parents upstairs in their bedroom. He says, “I did it,” yet no one can believe it; the boy is small for his age, almost silent. How could he have? Well, read on and find out: did he or didn’t he? Why were the parents murdered? What really happened, and what is in the background of this family? Child abuse? A killer from outside the family? Be prepared for nearly continuous surprises in this very, very, rewarding novel.
December 14, 2012
A good story that captured my attention. One of those books that is not easily classified into genre. Not so much a "Whodunit" as a "Whydunit"... Why would such a sweet little boy do the awful things that he seems to have done? No one can quite get a handle on it.
While not a murder mystery in the classic sense there are aspects of mystery to it, as well as suspense, an occasional literary flourish, and some romance (a genre I'm not a big fan of but in this case it fit well in the overall story without getting too sappy).
The characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley - without ever becoming the slightest bit confusing or hard to follow. Very smoothly and nicely done!
There were several moments I didn't see coming at all -- when I thought I had the end all figured out there was one final twist waiting to prove me wrong. It gets a little sentimental when it comes to the children being cared for in a facility for troubled children (who can blame someone for being sentimental about children?) and on the subject of family.
If you're strictly a fan of mystery and suspense then this may not be the book for you. If you're willing to try something a little different that mixes genres and leans a little more towards the area of character study and psychological issues then it's definitely worth taking a look.
Generally if I'm caught up in a story I have a tendency to not notice sparing use of profanity/strong language too much, so I'm not absolutely certain but I do seem to recall one or two instances of strong language in the book, plus there are a few places in the story with brief descriptions of violence that would not be suitable to very sensitive readers.
***I was given a free eBook copy of this book with the understanding that I would post an honest review after I'd finished reading it. There were no conditions given (nor promises made) as to whether the review would be good, bad, or indifferent, only that it would be my honest opinion.
While not a murder mystery in the classic sense there are aspects of mystery to it, as well as suspense, an occasional literary flourish, and some romance (a genre I'm not a big fan of but in this case it fit well in the overall story without getting too sappy).
The characters are well developed and realistic. It uses both first person and third person narrative, switching back and forth between three characters - child psychiatrist Hope Rubin, policeman Marty Keal and homicide detective Jean Whitley - without ever becoming the slightest bit confusing or hard to follow. Very smoothly and nicely done!
There were several moments I didn't see coming at all -- when I thought I had the end all figured out there was one final twist waiting to prove me wrong. It gets a little sentimental when it comes to the children being cared for in a facility for troubled children (who can blame someone for being sentimental about children?) and on the subject of family.
If you're strictly a fan of mystery and suspense then this may not be the book for you. If you're willing to try something a little different that mixes genres and leans a little more towards the area of character study and psychological issues then it's definitely worth taking a look.
Generally if I'm caught up in a story I have a tendency to not notice sparing use of profanity/strong language too much, so I'm not absolutely certain but I do seem to recall one or two instances of strong language in the book, plus there are a few places in the story with brief descriptions of violence that would not be suitable to very sensitive readers.
***I was given a free eBook copy of this book with the understanding that I would post an honest review after I'd finished reading it. There were no conditions given (nor promises made) as to whether the review would be good, bad, or indifferent, only that it would be my honest opinion.
March 18, 2013
This book starts off fairly quickly and keeps the pace to the end, but the bones of the book are a little wanting.
The plot is basically nature vs nurture.
What causes people to do horrible things.
There were many spelling & grammatical errors, which I do find annoying if I find more than a couple.
The plot needed to be beefed up a bit and the relationship lines could have been toned down....seriously three couples become newly involved in this novel, two of which fall in love in a very short period of time. Didn't ring true and to me and the love talk and thoughts were almost embarrassingly juvenile.
I kept reading to the end but the ending was wrapped up in a neat little package so quickly that I had to double check that I hadn't missed something.
I actually would like to rate it a 2 1/2.
The plot is basically nature vs nurture.
What causes people to do horrible things.
There were many spelling & grammatical errors, which I do find annoying if I find more than a couple.
The plot needed to be beefed up a bit and the relationship lines could have been toned down....seriously three couples become newly involved in this novel, two of which fall in love in a very short period of time. Didn't ring true and to me and the love talk and thoughts were almost embarrassingly juvenile.
I kept reading to the end but the ending was wrapped up in a neat little package so quickly that I had to double check that I hadn't missed something.
I actually would like to rate it a 2 1/2.
October 16, 2013
A Child is Torn ~ Innocence Lost had me gripped.
As soon as I saw the cover of "A Child Is Torn ~ Innocence Lost" I wanted to read it. The boy pictured on the front had an eerie yet innocent look about him.
I found the concept of this debut psychological Thriller an interesting idea that I had not come across before. It made me want to read more about nature vs nurture which I know very little about.
I have an almost 10 year old myself so to think this could actually happen was a very scary thought whilst reading this well thought, original idea.
I really liked how all the characters were interwoven with one another and seeing how their relationships developed. I loved the sweet love story that ran through the book.
A great read and I am now going to read Dawn's follow on book Faceless "A Mystery" to see how the characters develop further.
I wish to Thank the author for giving me a copy of "A Child Is Torn ~ Innocence Lost" in exchange for a fair and honest review. A wonderful start to many books to come.
As soon as I saw the cover of "A Child Is Torn ~ Innocence Lost" I wanted to read it. The boy pictured on the front had an eerie yet innocent look about him.
I found the concept of this debut psychological Thriller an interesting idea that I had not come across before. It made me want to read more about nature vs nurture which I know very little about.
I have an almost 10 year old myself so to think this could actually happen was a very scary thought whilst reading this well thought, original idea.
I really liked how all the characters were interwoven with one another and seeing how their relationships developed. I loved the sweet love story that ran through the book.
A great read and I am now going to read Dawn's follow on book Faceless "A Mystery" to see how the characters develop further.
I wish to Thank the author for giving me a copy of "A Child Is Torn ~ Innocence Lost" in exchange for a fair and honest review. A wonderful start to many books to come.
April 18, 2014
As a mum of a ten year old son I was totally intrigued to read this story. Dawn certainly didn't disappoint me. This is one of them books where you just want to sit and read it all in one sitting. Unfortunately sometimes life doesn't allow this. So at every opportunity I was sneaking a few more pages of this gripping read.
The author did a great job with this book. The words just flowed together so well to make a great story. My heart went out to Brad. I can't say much more as I don't want to give any spoilers away. I loved the other characters that were trying to help the young Brad.
My only regret is I didn't listen to my book buddy and read this gem before now.
Great praise to the author for a great read.
Received in return for an honest review.
The author did a great job with this book. The words just flowed together so well to make a great story. My heart went out to Brad. I can't say much more as I don't want to give any spoilers away. I loved the other characters that were trying to help the young Brad.
My only regret is I didn't listen to my book buddy and read this gem before now.
Great praise to the author for a great read.
Received in return for an honest review.
January 10, 2016
This book kept me up late in the night . I couldn't stop reading it and was very intrigued by the subject nature vs nurture . The author put a great slant on it and left me wanting more . I just loved the character Brad and the relationship between him and Gabe . I cannot wait to read the next book in the series
April 25, 2018
Is this child a killer?
This book grabbed me from the very start, when a slight young boy of just ten, was found in his home playing video games, while his parents lay bludgeoned to death upstairs. The question of how, why, and whether, the crime was committed by the boy is the basis of the novel.
It was interesting to read a novel about the care system and what happens to a child under such traumatic circumstances. Maybe I'd have liked to have heard more from the young boy, but overall that was a small gripe. My main reason for the 4, rather than 5 stars, was the ending, which didn't entirely convince me, but I will say no more.
I enjoyed the interaction between the adult characters, the police and carers, grandparents and teachers, and it was interesting to see how they worked together and how different people held differing suspicions about the case. Some of this group will appear in subsequent books of the series and will no doubt become friends as I continue to follow them.
Unfortunately I wasn't a fan of the narrator, she read rather slowly and had a much older voice than was appropriate for the characters she was reading. Although she read clearly, she made little attempt to differentiate between characters, even between male and female.
I already have the second book, Faceless, lined up to read, and I'm looking forward to it.
This book grabbed me from the very start, when a slight young boy of just ten, was found in his home playing video games, while his parents lay bludgeoned to death upstairs. The question of how, why, and whether, the crime was committed by the boy is the basis of the novel.
It was interesting to read a novel about the care system and what happens to a child under such traumatic circumstances. Maybe I'd have liked to have heard more from the young boy, but overall that was a small gripe. My main reason for the 4, rather than 5 stars, was the ending, which didn't entirely convince me, but I will say no more.
I enjoyed the interaction between the adult characters, the police and carers, grandparents and teachers, and it was interesting to see how they worked together and how different people held differing suspicions about the case. Some of this group will appear in subsequent books of the series and will no doubt become friends as I continue to follow them.
Unfortunately I wasn't a fan of the narrator, she read rather slowly and had a much older voice than was appropriate for the characters she was reading. Although she read clearly, she made little attempt to differentiate between characters, even between male and female.
I already have the second book, Faceless, lined up to read, and I'm looking forward to it.
January 14, 2016
I read this book as part of a Goodreads book of the month club. I was drawn to this book months earlier based on the book cover. So I was trilled this book was chosen as the book to discuss. This was an outstanding book. I find the basis of a books success for me is will it open up my thoughts and give me something this thing about the subject. A Child Is Torn more than lived up to this baseline. I have been drawn to the Nature vs. Nurture debate for a long time. This book helped me to sink into this thought process. The character development with A Child Is Torn was outstanding. I felt a close connection to each character in the book. The author did a great job of providing a great foundation and background for each character. I felt great sympathy for the main character and I wanted him to be at peace and to find answers to why this tragedy occurred. As for the flow of the book, the providing the title of each character throughout the book was very helpful. I was able to follow along with the character without having to determine which character was leading the discussion. By listing the character's name in the chapter, I was able to seamlessly transition into the chapter. I also related to each character in this book. Finally, the author provided some funny lines in this book. When you can add humor to a book filled with tragedy, then the results are phenomenal.
January 2, 2016
This was an intriguing read that kept me going and I finished it quickly. How and why did 10 year old Brad bludgeon his parents to death? When police arrive at the Madison house they find Brad covered in blood calmly playing a video game. He admits that he hurt his parents. A caring psychiatrist is hoping she can help Brad by figuring out what is going on. Brad knows there is something wrong with him and he begs the doctor to help him.The book does require a little willing suspension of disbelief in that he is a very small child and was able to beat two adults to death with a baseball bat. But there have been cases of people having enough adrenaline to do things beyond belief when they are angered. The question becomes one of nurture vs. nature as the police and Dr. Hope look into Brad's family background. This book contains it all: mystery, characters I felt I got to know, a little romance but not enough to take away from the plot. It was a quick read. I had a slight problem with the book needing further editing. Word choice, awkward sentence structure, etc which is why I could not give it five star. For content this was a very enjoyable novel and I have actually begun reading the second book by this author.
October 24, 2013
I was offered the book in exchange for a review.
Well, where do I start. When I started this book, I had visions of PD James meets Ruth Rendell with a bit of James Patterson thrown in lol. Well I still thought that way til I was about 90% of the book read and BAM, there it was all to do with DNA.
When you start reading the book, it looks like any other normal thriller. You think you know what is going to happen and then it changes. I actually thought the Uncle had done it, but as I got further into the book, it became apparent that maybe he didn't. Then you have the strange grandparents (father's side), who I thought was a bit standoffish with the Detective and Doctor. I was correct and loved that 2 of the characters got together. But I would never of guessed about twins and DNA that could separate what they do. It never once entered my head.
If you never read another thriller, I URGE you to read this. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to look inside the heads of a thriller with a massive twist.
Can't wait to read Dawn Kopman Whidden's next novel FACELESS.
Well, where do I start. When I started this book, I had visions of PD James meets Ruth Rendell with a bit of James Patterson thrown in lol. Well I still thought that way til I was about 90% of the book read and BAM, there it was all to do with DNA.
When you start reading the book, it looks like any other normal thriller. You think you know what is going to happen and then it changes. I actually thought the Uncle had done it, but as I got further into the book, it became apparent that maybe he didn't. Then you have the strange grandparents (father's side), who I thought was a bit standoffish with the Detective and Doctor. I was correct and loved that 2 of the characters got together. But I would never of guessed about twins and DNA that could separate what they do. It never once entered my head.
If you never read another thriller, I URGE you to read this. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to look inside the heads of a thriller with a massive twist.
Can't wait to read Dawn Kopman Whidden's next novel FACELESS.
November 22, 2014
This book was a very good read. And very thought provoking. It's the story of a little boy named Brad. Brad is found in front of a tv, playing a video game, covered in blood. When the police find him he won't speak a word. In the bedroom his parents are dead. For how long no one is sure. He is immediately taken to the hospital. Did he kill his parents? Did someone else kill them? Is he hurt? These are all the questions that Dr. Hope must get answers to once at the hospital. We meet Detectives Moran and Jean. Moran is convinced he did it. Jean isn't so sure. She keeps looking for answers. Together with Dr. Hope, Jean and her set out to discover the truth. Great read, and great characters. I wouldn't mind reading more about them!
December 28, 2013
I loved this book. The characters were well developed, realistic and liked - most of them. This precious child that normally you should not like because of what he's done, was adorable to me. I wanted to hold him and tell him everything will be okay. It was well written with a slight twist in the end. I finished the book late last night and am still worried about the boy - that's a sign of a great book.
August 6, 2012
A fun fast paced mystery written by a good friend of mine. You will find yourself lost in the characters.
a great read.
a great read.
September 14, 2012
I really enjoyed the read. An excellent first effort for Dawn Kopman Whidden. Book two should be coming soon.
June 17, 2015
I would have enjoyed more if the story was more about the boy and less about the doctor and police.
April 18, 2019
Ugh these types of stories really grab your heartstrings. Having a young boy myself, it's hard not to feel those maternal pangs with this one. Such a tragic tale. I laughed, I cried, my heart hurt, my heart swelled.
Brad assumingly did a very bad thing and the story unfolds as a team of police detectives and therapists try to get to the bottom of the mystery of how a little 10yr old boy is capable of such a horrendous act. Why? The author really does a great job getting into the mind of this little guy and showing you how helpless and scared and alone he feels.
I like the parallel subplots going on with the story of Brad on one side and the interpersonal lives of the police detectives on the case and the therapist Dr Hope Rubin on the other side. Some of it can be perceived as a bit contrived - Marty the cop running into Dr Hope and her mom at the mall and pulling her over etc but you're rooting for them so you can overlook the bit of disbelief that they'd run into each other so frequently. But you're relieved when they work out their differences and decide to pursue things outside of the work environment.
There were some logistical confusions for me early on in the story but then I realized the year the story was written and it became less of a focus for me. The story is obviously modern enough for the characters to have cell phones but they rely on them so seldomly its weird to me. They still use landlines and answering machines and have to retrieve messages when they get back to the office. So much lost communication due to not being at the place of call. I still feel like those details are a bit dated even for 2012 - like people were relying on smart phones a lot more by then but I digress. Not an important detail.
One other detail felt a little clumsy for me. We really don't focus on the investigation much with the exception of delving a bit into the maternal family but why is the paternal family not relevant? I can understand if the hospital staff doesn't pursue every lead by why don't the detectives on the case?!?
I was worried about the story's wrap up by the last hour, hoping there was some resolution in that amount of time left and I wasn't disappointed. I felt like there's still maybe some loose ends that could evolve into some subplots in the 2nd book but I could see them not too and it'd be fine.
When I first started this story, I was a little torn about the narrator. She sounds elderly perhaps (age doesn't matter) but that was made noticeable by the wobble in her voice. She was very breathy at the beginning although I either got used to it and forgot about it or she wasn't as breathy towards the later half of the story. The voice worked for some of the characters better than others. The fragility was great for the voice of Brad and the little bit older detectives and elderly family of Brad but for the younger characters not as well. Hope and her friend and Marty and Justin all seemed overly frail in their vocal representations so I had to actively overlook that nuance to her voice.
All in all, great story. Made me go home and hug my baby boy a little tighter last night.
Brad assumingly did a very bad thing and the story unfolds as a team of police detectives and therapists try to get to the bottom of the mystery of how a little 10yr old boy is capable of such a horrendous act. Why? The author really does a great job getting into the mind of this little guy and showing you how helpless and scared and alone he feels.
I like the parallel subplots going on with the story of Brad on one side and the interpersonal lives of the police detectives on the case and the therapist Dr Hope Rubin on the other side. Some of it can be perceived as a bit contrived - Marty the cop running into Dr Hope and her mom at the mall and pulling her over etc but you're rooting for them so you can overlook the bit of disbelief that they'd run into each other so frequently. But you're relieved when they work out their differences and decide to pursue things outside of the work environment.
There were some logistical confusions for me early on in the story but then I realized the year the story was written and it became less of a focus for me. The story is obviously modern enough for the characters to have cell phones but they rely on them so seldomly its weird to me. They still use landlines and answering machines and have to retrieve messages when they get back to the office. So much lost communication due to not being at the place of call. I still feel like those details are a bit dated even for 2012 - like people were relying on smart phones a lot more by then but I digress. Not an important detail.
One other detail felt a little clumsy for me. We really don't focus on the investigation much with the exception of delving a bit into the maternal family but why is the paternal family not relevant? I can understand if the hospital staff doesn't pursue every lead by why don't the detectives on the case?!?
I was worried about the story's wrap up by the last hour, hoping there was some resolution in that amount of time left and I wasn't disappointed. I felt like there's still maybe some loose ends that could evolve into some subplots in the 2nd book but I could see them not too and it'd be fine.
When I first started this story, I was a little torn about the narrator. She sounds elderly perhaps (age doesn't matter) but that was made noticeable by the wobble in her voice. She was very breathy at the beginning although I either got used to it and forgot about it or she wasn't as breathy towards the later half of the story. The voice worked for some of the characters better than others. The fragility was great for the voice of Brad and the little bit older detectives and elderly family of Brad but for the younger characters not as well. Hope and her friend and Marty and Justin all seemed overly frail in their vocal representations so I had to actively overlook that nuance to her voice.
All in all, great story. Made me go home and hug my baby boy a little tighter last night.
August 19, 2017
Review of audio version of A Child is Torn
3.5 stars
This author is new to me so I listened with no preconceptions. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be looking for other books written by this author.
I was engaged while listening, always trying to pick up clues as to the who and then why of the horrendous crime. The discovery of clues and information by the police and psychiatrist felt natural with no convenient (and annoying) coincidences used to push the story along.
As the first book in a series featuring recurring characters, you expect to gain an understanding of what drives them. There was enough information given and I didn't feel like focus was taken from the crime to achieve this.
I finished this book wishing I knew more about Brad. It's a fine line to walk given Brad is only a child, and rightly we hear his story in his own limited vocabulary. But yes, I am intrigued by him and wish I knew more.
The narration was good. Each character had their own voice and emotion was conveyed as described in the story.
A free copy of this audiobook was given to me in exchange for an unbiased review
3.5 stars
This author is new to me so I listened with no preconceptions. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be looking for other books written by this author.
I was engaged while listening, always trying to pick up clues as to the who and then why of the horrendous crime. The discovery of clues and information by the police and psychiatrist felt natural with no convenient (and annoying) coincidences used to push the story along.
As the first book in a series featuring recurring characters, you expect to gain an understanding of what drives them. There was enough information given and I didn't feel like focus was taken from the crime to achieve this.
I finished this book wishing I knew more about Brad. It's a fine line to walk given Brad is only a child, and rightly we hear his story in his own limited vocabulary. But yes, I am intrigued by him and wish I knew more.
The narration was good. Each character had their own voice and emotion was conveyed as described in the story.
A free copy of this audiobook was given to me in exchange for an unbiased review
November 12, 2017
Brad is a sweet 10 year old who is found playing games by police. The police were called since Brad's father had not shown up to work and no one was unable to get in contact with him. When they go upstairs it is total carnage with the discovery of the bloodied and battered bodies of Brads mom and dad. Brad is taken away unresponsive to questions and placed in a psychiatic institution.
Against this setting are various people who interact with Brad for different reasons: the psychiatrist,the detective,family members and the police. What makes this interesting is we are drawn into those individual's lives which are being played out in different ways but still trying to solve exactly what happened between Brad and his parents. The characters are real and so are their lives. The real upset I had with the book -spoiler- was the ending; I felt like I had driven a long distance only to be dropped off the edge of a cliff.
Against this setting are various people who interact with Brad for different reasons: the psychiatrist,the detective,family members and the police. What makes this interesting is we are drawn into those individual's lives which are being played out in different ways but still trying to solve exactly what happened between Brad and his parents. The characters are real and so are their lives. The real upset I had with the book -spoiler- was the ending; I felt like I had driven a long distance only to be dropped off the edge of a cliff.
May 19, 2019
Could a 10 year old boy really kill his parents. Although the basis of the book it was more about the characters involved in his story and their lives. Brad's story brought them together. This was definitely a book which is setting the characters for future novels, however this didn't detract from it. Hard to put this book in a specific genre as it was a bit crime, mystery and relationships all thrown in together. There were some great characters and it will be interesting how their stories develop in the rest of the series. Told from the view of the main characters in turn, the story gradually builds to its outcome. An interesting read, that wasn't quite what I expected when I started, but quicky drew me in. I'm looking forward to listening to more from the series.
November 13, 2017
Good but the ending came too soon.
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller about a young boy found in the home with his murdered parents. The author gives you a few main characters to know and care about and the story itself is very intriguing. Did he murder his parents or were there other forces at work? My only complaint was the ending...it was unsatisfactory for me. I will try another of the author's works because I liked everything up til then.
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller about a young boy found in the home with his murdered parents. The author gives you a few main characters to know and care about and the story itself is very intriguing. Did he murder his parents or were there other forces at work? My only complaint was the ending...it was unsatisfactory for me. I will try another of the author's works because I liked everything up til then.
October 22, 2017
Deep and emotional
I absolutely love the characters in this book. I'm happy to see it's a continuing series. I will definitely continue reading. This story was very heartbreaking but a very well written mystery. Excellent read
I absolutely love the characters in this book. I'm happy to see it's a continuing series. I will definitely continue reading. This story was very heartbreaking but a very well written mystery. Excellent read
February 5, 2016
I think that Dawn Kopman Whidden is an excellent storyteller. I love the way she draws her readers into her story of this ten-year old boy who has brutally killed his mother and father by bashing in their heads with a baseball bat. And even though his crime was heinous, she makes us feel for this little boy who knows that he did something bad, "I hurt them", "Please make me stop", you see his single tear and you feel his pain. The Prologue and Chapter 1 are captivating chapters because of how strong the author makes us FEEL about little Brad Madison.
However, a psychological thriller it is not. Psychological, perhaps yes, because we have a psychiatrist Dr. Hope Rubin who is very committed to Brad's recovery and helping him to learn how to live with what he has done although we never learn how she plans to do this. I was disappointed here because I would like to have known how a professional does this: helps these children back to some sense of "new" normal , but we were given no information about this other than the administering of drugs. I truly wanted this book to be Brad's Story, with a look inside Brad's head, and felt that I was shortchanged because only the last 2% of the book told Brad's Story. The main story, the main focus was not a plot centered on Brad or on Brad's character; I feel much more time should have been spent on Brad.
There was no part of the book that I would consider a "thriller" other than the original horrific crime scene. I felt no tension throughout and the only suspense was when we learned about That reveal came ~94%. What could have been white -knuckle chilling was IF we would have "witnessed" Brad actually killing his parents, not the abbreviated version that we were given at the end, but the details describing this little boy gone bad and because we were not given the details, there was no "thrill". IMO, this was more a romance than a psychological thriller.
Although the romance parts between Marty , the police officer, and Hope were entertaining, this was not what was "advertised". Also entertaining were the escapades of the station cops that Detective Jean Whitley had to deal with and the parts with Hope's "Jewish" mother were quite comical, and I enjoyed the humor.
The nature vs nurture debate was also glossed over without a lot of substance, and this was the core theory of why Brad did the horrible thing that he did. The anecdotal stories about twins, etc. did not give enough attention to this crucial debate.
So, although it was a quick read and in parts entertaining and comical, it was a disappointing read for me. And thank goodness we don't judge a book by its cover or few would pick up this book in the first place.
Later: I would like to add some clarifying information to my above review. I read this book BEFORE the author posted an introduction to her book on our Goodreads discussion page so that much of what I said , as I now reflect, is probably unfair and I would like to set it right.
Whidden tells us that this is not your typical psych.thriller. "It is more about the relationships that surround the crime" .... "Unlike most psych. thrillers, this is a character driven novel; it is more about THEIR stories...."
So, it really was not written to be Brad's Story as I expected, but the relationships between Marty/Hope, Marty/his dad, Hope/mother, etc. and the author told those stories those very well and the "thriller" component would not have received center stage. I still think that there should have been more concrete information re. the nature/nurture debate since that was central to the story and perhaps something about how Hope was planning to help Brad to a manageable recovery. Also, I do think that the advertising is misleading and should be changed so that those wanting a true psych. thriller are not disappointed but.... she told us that this took her 59 years to write, and I applaud her effort !!
However, a psychological thriller it is not. Psychological, perhaps yes, because we have a psychiatrist Dr. Hope Rubin who is very committed to Brad's recovery and helping him to learn how to live with what he has done although we never learn how she plans to do this. I was disappointed here because I would like to have known how a professional does this: helps these children back to some sense of "new" normal , but we were given no information about this other than the administering of drugs. I truly wanted this book to be Brad's Story, with a look inside Brad's head, and felt that I was shortchanged because only the last 2% of the book told Brad's Story. The main story, the main focus was not a plot centered on Brad or on Brad's character; I feel much more time should have been spent on Brad.
There was no part of the book that I would consider a "thriller" other than the original horrific crime scene. I felt no tension throughout and the only suspense was when we learned about That reveal came ~94%. What could have been white -knuckle chilling was IF we would have "witnessed" Brad actually killing his parents, not the abbreviated version that we were given at the end, but the details describing this little boy gone bad and because we were not given the details, there was no "thrill". IMO, this was more a romance than a psychological thriller.
Although the romance parts between Marty , the police officer, and Hope were entertaining, this was not what was "advertised". Also entertaining were the escapades of the station cops that Detective Jean Whitley had to deal with and the parts with Hope's "Jewish" mother were quite comical, and I enjoyed the humor.
The nature vs nurture debate was also glossed over without a lot of substance, and this was the core theory of why Brad did the horrible thing that he did. The anecdotal stories about twins, etc. did not give enough attention to this crucial debate.
So, although it was a quick read and in parts entertaining and comical, it was a disappointing read for me. And thank goodness we don't judge a book by its cover or few would pick up this book in the first place.
Later: I would like to add some clarifying information to my above review. I read this book BEFORE the author posted an introduction to her book on our Goodreads discussion page so that much of what I said , as I now reflect, is probably unfair and I would like to set it right.
Whidden tells us that this is not your typical psych.thriller. "It is more about the relationships that surround the crime" .... "Unlike most psych. thrillers, this is a character driven novel; it is more about THEIR stories...."
So, it really was not written to be Brad's Story as I expected, but the relationships between Marty/Hope, Marty/his dad, Hope/mother, etc. and the author told those stories those very well and the "thriller" component would not have received center stage. I still think that there should have been more concrete information re. the nature/nurture debate since that was central to the story and perhaps something about how Hope was planning to help Brad to a manageable recovery. Also, I do think that the advertising is misleading and should be changed so that those wanting a true psych. thriller are not disappointed but.... she told us that this took her 59 years to write, and I applaud her effort !!
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