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The Life Sentence
Convicted
Jailed
All for a crime that never even happened … My name is Amber Ryan.
I’m in prison, but I’m innocent.
And I’ve been jailed not just for a crime I didn’t commit, but for a crime that never even happened.
Now, my friend is going to try to prove it.
But to do that, she has to go back.
Back to the dark.
Jailed
All for a crime that never even happened … My name is Amber Ryan.
I’m in prison, but I’m innocent.
And I’ve been jailed not just for a crime I didn’t commit, but for a crime that never even happened.
Now, my friend is going to try to prove it.
But to do that, she has to go back.
Back to the dark.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2024
639 people are currently reading
646 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Kabler
19 books435 followersJackie Kabler is a journalist, TV presenter and author. She spent twenty years as a TV news reporter for GMTV, ITV and BBC news, and now works as a presenter for shopping channel QVC and is author of the Cora Baxter Mysteries, a series of murder mysteries set in a television newsroom.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
June 27, 2024
Because of its unrealistic aspects and a few illogical storyline lines, "The Life Sentence" by Jackie Kabler left me feeling a little let down. I gave it a middling three stars.
The idea was really captivating. Who wouldn't be intrigued by the prospect of being framed for a crime they didn't commit? Nevertheless, this is where things start to get dubious since some of the events in the novel feel a little too fantastical. While I can accept suspending disbelief, is it really appropriate to give someone a life sentence for a seemingly absurd crime? That was a little bit too much for my imagination.
As much as I enjoy a crisp, sharp exchange of ideas, the dialogue between the characters in this book? Instead of engaging in casual conversation, it seems as though they are making speeches. People in real life don't only talk at each other. Regarding the characters, I found it difficult to connect with many of them. While I acknowledge that they are not perfect, I found myself rolling my eyes so much at some of their choices that I worried they would become stuck!
To tell the truth, though, not everything was bad. Despite these flaws, the book was still enjoyable enough because the plot was easy to follow. Even though the plot did not have me on the edge of my seat as much as I had hoped, the unexpected twist at the end was a welcome surprise.
If you're looking for something to pass the time and don't mind a few bumps along the way, "The Life Sentence" might be worth a try. You never know, it might even take you by surprise!
The idea was really captivating. Who wouldn't be intrigued by the prospect of being framed for a crime they didn't commit? Nevertheless, this is where things start to get dubious since some of the events in the novel feel a little too fantastical. While I can accept suspending disbelief, is it really appropriate to give someone a life sentence for a seemingly absurd crime? That was a little bit too much for my imagination.
As much as I enjoy a crisp, sharp exchange of ideas, the dialogue between the characters in this book? Instead of engaging in casual conversation, it seems as though they are making speeches. People in real life don't only talk at each other. Regarding the characters, I found it difficult to connect with many of them. While I acknowledge that they are not perfect, I found myself rolling my eyes so much at some of their choices that I worried they would become stuck!
To tell the truth, though, not everything was bad. Despite these flaws, the book was still enjoyable enough because the plot was easy to follow. Even though the plot did not have me on the edge of my seat as much as I had hoped, the unexpected twist at the end was a welcome surprise.
If you're looking for something to pass the time and don't mind a few bumps along the way, "The Life Sentence" might be worth a try. You never know, it might even take you by surprise!
April 16, 2024
The Life Sentence
This novel felt like a life sentence to read. If my purse is stolen with my keys, credit cards, and driver's license, I am not going to the local coffee shop to meet the thief. I'm not going to order a latte and hear what they have to say. On top of that, why am I helping the long-lost friend serving a life sentence? If she's innocent hire a lawyer or non-profit. I couldn't get my head around the characters or the reason why it was much trouble to bring a con artist to justice.
Not on my list of recommendations this month!
This novel felt like a life sentence to read. If my purse is stolen with my keys, credit cards, and driver's license, I am not going to the local coffee shop to meet the thief. I'm not going to order a latte and hear what they have to say. On top of that, why am I helping the long-lost friend serving a life sentence? If she's innocent hire a lawyer or non-profit. I couldn't get my head around the characters or the reason why it was much trouble to bring a con artist to justice.
Not on my list of recommendations this month!
May 2, 2024
Convicted. Jailed. All for a crime that never even happened...
I have read four of Jackie Kabler's previous psychological thrillers and have enjoyed all of them but this one I found a little underwhelming, despite the intriguing description. I struggled to immerse myself and fully believe what was unfolding, as engaging as it was. But I ploughed on to the end.
While the story centres around Amber Ryan being falsely accused, convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, Heather is our main character here, going in to bat for her long time former friend Amber who now languishes inside an 8 foot cell. So why was Amber now in prison? And a life sentence? I probably would have believed it had the crime been something more substantial than a robbery and apparent stabbing. Nobody died. Injured, yes. Dead, no. So why the life sentence? That just didn't sit right with me.
The man at the centre of it all is Jack Shannon. Handsome, charismatic and charming. But a narcissistic, self indulgent, entitled grown man-child-brat. Heather had once been involved with Jack. A short-lived fling that she did well to escape. Then Amber, her long time friend, became involved with him...despite Heather's pleas of warning for her to disentangle herself from him. Amber accused her of being jealous and cut ties with her.
And now Heather is told by way of a third hand acquaintance in Felicity and her brother Nathan that Jack is responsible for Amber's incarceration. That he had methodically planned to frame her and have her jailed for the crimes he was setting her up for. Because the crime never actually happened and Amber is now in prison for something not only did she not do, but never even happened.
So between the three of them, they decide to uncover the truth and bring Jack to justice. Doable? Or are they stark staring mad? It's a dangerous mission, especially if Jack finds out their subterfuge.
At any rate, there is lots of action, red herrings and a few twists along the way that will keep you turning the pages, albeit a little disbelievingly, and guessing how it will all end. There are plenty of eye-rolling moments and the story is pretty far fetched even for the fictitious kind that suspending belief kind of stretches the elasticity of it.
However, despite its flaws and my issues with it, the plot is very easy to follow and fairly fast paced. And it is a decent enough read, even if it's not one of her best. Something to pass the time, at least.
I would like to thank #JackieKabler, #Netgalley, #OneMoreChapter and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLifeSentence in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I have read four of Jackie Kabler's previous psychological thrillers and have enjoyed all of them but this one I found a little underwhelming, despite the intriguing description. I struggled to immerse myself and fully believe what was unfolding, as engaging as it was. But I ploughed on to the end.
While the story centres around Amber Ryan being falsely accused, convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, Heather is our main character here, going in to bat for her long time former friend Amber who now languishes inside an 8 foot cell. So why was Amber now in prison? And a life sentence? I probably would have believed it had the crime been something more substantial than a robbery and apparent stabbing. Nobody died. Injured, yes. Dead, no. So why the life sentence? That just didn't sit right with me.
The man at the centre of it all is Jack Shannon. Handsome, charismatic and charming. But a narcissistic, self indulgent, entitled grown man-child-brat. Heather had once been involved with Jack. A short-lived fling that she did well to escape. Then Amber, her long time friend, became involved with him...despite Heather's pleas of warning for her to disentangle herself from him. Amber accused her of being jealous and cut ties with her.
And now Heather is told by way of a third hand acquaintance in Felicity and her brother Nathan that Jack is responsible for Amber's incarceration. That he had methodically planned to frame her and have her jailed for the crimes he was setting her up for. Because the crime never actually happened and Amber is now in prison for something not only did she not do, but never even happened.
So between the three of them, they decide to uncover the truth and bring Jack to justice. Doable? Or are they stark staring mad? It's a dangerous mission, especially if Jack finds out their subterfuge.
At any rate, there is lots of action, red herrings and a few twists along the way that will keep you turning the pages, albeit a little disbelievingly, and guessing how it will all end. There are plenty of eye-rolling moments and the story is pretty far fetched even for the fictitious kind that suspending belief kind of stretches the elasticity of it.
However, despite its flaws and my issues with it, the plot is very easy to follow and fairly fast paced. And it is a decent enough read, even if it's not one of her best. Something to pass the time, at least.
I would like to thank #JackieKabler, #Netgalley, #OneMoreChapter and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLifeSentence in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
July 8, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
The Life Sentence.
This is my first book by the author and I was excited my request was approved.
I'm always looking for a new author to read.
Sadly, this didn't meet my expectation for a number of reasons:
1. I don't like the author's writing style. Lots of exposition, long paragraphs and no paragraph breaks of long wind=winded descriptions.
The style of writing is also immature, almost childish.
2. The premise is a lie; the incident that put Amber in prison did happen, but there are inconsistencies. It didn't not happen.
3. I'm not a lawyer and get all my legal knowledge from Law & Order reruns but I do know this: there's no way anyone would get life in prison for grand larceny and a stabbing.
Rapists and pedophiles get less time in prison. Maybe this is how the law works in the UK.
4. Typical of the genre, the premise is drawn out with Felicity stealing Heather's bag and saying she can't say much, then punting her off to her brother, Nathan, before more long winded exposition is given.
I know the author is just trying to draw out the suspense but it didn't work here. It made me annoyed and frustrated and the poor writing also didn't help.
Characters speak in long, long paragraphs with no paragraph breaks. Real people don't speak this way unless they're telling a story.
5. Heather is boring and dull; she's pulled into this caper by the siblings and has to be convinced she's the only one who can do it. Things happens to her, not the other way around.
6. The narrative is tedious and repetitive; nothing happens until the last 10 pages. There's barely any suspense or urgency.
We're just reading about Heather looking for evidence, playing her part with Jack, getting the creeps from Rhona, the housekeeper, and having secret convos with Felicity and Nathan.
7. Chapters from Jack's POV unnecessary. Also, he's a psychopath because he's a momma's boy?
Dr. Freud! Paging Dr. Freud! Are you available?
8. The ending is hard to suspend disbelief for, but so was the whole story.
Some readers might enjoy this but the story and author isn't for me.
This is my first book by the author and I was excited my request was approved.
I'm always looking for a new author to read.
Sadly, this didn't meet my expectation for a number of reasons:
1. I don't like the author's writing style. Lots of exposition, long paragraphs and no paragraph breaks of long wind=winded descriptions.
The style of writing is also immature, almost childish.
2. The premise is a lie; the incident that put Amber in prison did happen, but there are inconsistencies. It didn't not happen.
3. I'm not a lawyer and get all my legal knowledge from Law & Order reruns but I do know this: there's no way anyone would get life in prison for grand larceny and a stabbing.
Rapists and pedophiles get less time in prison. Maybe this is how the law works in the UK.
4. Typical of the genre, the premise is drawn out with Felicity stealing Heather's bag and saying she can't say much, then punting her off to her brother, Nathan, before more long winded exposition is given.
I know the author is just trying to draw out the suspense but it didn't work here. It made me annoyed and frustrated and the poor writing also didn't help.
Characters speak in long, long paragraphs with no paragraph breaks. Real people don't speak this way unless they're telling a story.
5. Heather is boring and dull; she's pulled into this caper by the siblings and has to be convinced she's the only one who can do it. Things happens to her, not the other way around.
6. The narrative is tedious and repetitive; nothing happens until the last 10 pages. There's barely any suspense or urgency.
We're just reading about Heather looking for evidence, playing her part with Jack, getting the creeps from Rhona, the housekeeper, and having secret convos with Felicity and Nathan.
7. Chapters from Jack's POV unnecessary. Also, he's a psychopath because he's a momma's boy?
Dr. Freud! Paging Dr. Freud! Are you available?
8. The ending is hard to suspend disbelief for, but so was the whole story.
Some readers might enjoy this but the story and author isn't for me.
March 17, 2024
This book was only okay, in my opinion. Semi spoilers ahead.
The story itself was pretty good, and I enjoyed the ending. But that was about it, for me.
First of all, the alleged “crime that never happened”, did happen. It just didn’t happen the way it was alleged to have happened. And I’m no judge, but I don’t think it’s realistic whatsoever that someone would be given a life sentence for the alleged crime.
Second, this book is probably 25-30% longer than needed. There is far too much detail of Heather searching places in Jack’s house. It got to be repetitive and boring.
Third, this book wants the reader to believe someone was put in prison for LIFE for a far less serious crime than murder, but then another character has murdered someone, plus several other crimes(with proof, and a confession!) and they were released on bail because they’re “not dangerous?” That’s just not realistic, even if the person is rich.
Also, there just isn’t any wow factor to this story. No shocking plot twists, nothing super compelling…I just was not very impressed. Jack’s reasoning for his strange schedule and for what he did to his girlfriends are just not believable in my opinion.
Overall, this book was okay. But I wouldn’t recommend it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for the opportunity to read this advance copy!
The story itself was pretty good, and I enjoyed the ending. But that was about it, for me.
First of all, the alleged “crime that never happened”, did happen. It just didn’t happen the way it was alleged to have happened. And I’m no judge, but I don’t think it’s realistic whatsoever that someone would be given a life sentence for the alleged crime.
Second, this book is probably 25-30% longer than needed. There is far too much detail of Heather searching places in Jack’s house. It got to be repetitive and boring.
Third, this book wants the reader to believe someone was put in prison for LIFE for a far less serious crime than murder, but then another character has murdered someone, plus several other crimes(with proof, and a confession!) and they were released on bail because they’re “not dangerous?” That’s just not realistic, even if the person is rich.
Also, there just isn’t any wow factor to this story. No shocking plot twists, nothing super compelling…I just was not very impressed. Jack’s reasoning for his strange schedule and for what he did to his girlfriends are just not believable in my opinion.
Overall, this book was okay. But I wouldn’t recommend it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for the opportunity to read this advance copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2024
I am disappointed that this story isn’t anywhere near as good as the author’s previous books.
It wasn’t twisty enough for me, and the plot was middling. There were also annoying things like Amber getting a life sentence, which seems so unlikely for her crime, and someone else being let out on bail for murder!
It wasn’t twisty enough for me, and the plot was middling. There were also annoying things like Amber getting a life sentence, which seems so unlikely for her crime, and someone else being let out on bail for murder!
April 11, 2024
This is an awesome book that kept me enthralled the entire way through! Heather is a bookseller when Felicity "steals" her purse but really just wants to engage with her to ask for help. Heather's friend, Amber is in prison for murdering Jack Shannon, and as Heather used to date him, she hasn't spoken to Amber since she was arrested. But now after meeting Felicity and her brother Nathan, there is more to the story that's even more heinous than one could imagine. Apparently Jack "punished" his women and when Heather agrees to meet with Amber in prison, she gets an earful of information she wasn't aware of and finds herself willing to help as even Jack's death is called into question. Lots of action, red herrings, and false claims litter this novel that kept me gasping until the end!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
July 28, 2025
4.5⭐️
Loved this book!!
Jackie Kabler never disappoints - one of my favourite thriller writers and I honestly can’t wait to read the rest of her backlist!
This kept me on my toes, had so many twists and turns and made me shout at various characters (although the ending wasn’t my absolute favourite) the rest of the book made up for it!
Loved this book!!
Jackie Kabler never disappoints - one of my favourite thriller writers and I honestly can’t wait to read the rest of her backlist!
This kept me on my toes, had so many twists and turns and made me shout at various characters (although the ending wasn’t my absolute favourite) the rest of the book made up for it!
April 2, 2024
For me this book was wholly predictable. It didn’t have any elements where I felt shocked by events or twists.
I think I would have preferred more chapters in the point of view of Jack to understand his mindset.
The reasoning for his fear of daylight wasn’t very strong or discussed much and the ‘crime’ wasn’t very original or clever.
It’s a pretty basic psychological thriller, I would recommend for new readers of this genre or those getting back into reading but for seasoned readers, I’m not sure it would be anything you haven’t read before.
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC
I think I would have preferred more chapters in the point of view of Jack to understand his mindset.
The reasoning for his fear of daylight wasn’t very strong or discussed much and the ‘crime’ wasn’t very original or clever.
It’s a pretty basic psychological thriller, I would recommend for new readers of this genre or those getting back into reading but for seasoned readers, I’m not sure it would be anything you haven’t read before.
Thank you to Net galley for the ARC
June 7, 2024
Heather Harris works in a bookshop, a job that brings her a lot of joy. One day, she attends a book event where a strange, nervous-looking woman sits next to her.
When the event finishes, Heather realises that her handbag was swapped, and inside she finds a note with a phone number, urging her to call.
Desperate to get her belongings back, Heather does that, and she recognises the culprit – it’s the woman from the book event. She tells Heather that her name is Felicity and that she needs her help to clear Amber Ryan’s name.
Amber used to be best friends with Heather, until she started dating her ex-boyfriend, Jack Shannon. Heather tried to warn Amber off him, as she felt there was something off about him, but Amber wouldn’t listen.
Now, Amber is serving a life sentence for a crime that didn’t even happen. Felicity is adamant that Jack Shannon framed Amber and that he’s a very dangerous man.
Heather needs to rekindle her flame with Jack and collect the evidence. Can she do it?
How I loved this psychological thriller from start to finish!
I adore Jackie Kabler; her books are always full of suspense, and you can expect a twist or two to pop up along the way.
This book certainly didn’t disappoint.
I liked how it was written from the points of view of different people. Jack was such a strange character; there was definitely an element of a psychopath in him. I didn’t understand how someone could have a nocturnal lifestyle like he did; he was almost like a vampire, although I’m sure that vampires are nicer than him!
I know that some people felt that the plot was a bit far-fetched, but I paid no mind to that. I enjoyed it, and it offered me a bit of escapism when I needed it the most.
When the event finishes, Heather realises that her handbag was swapped, and inside she finds a note with a phone number, urging her to call.
Desperate to get her belongings back, Heather does that, and she recognises the culprit – it’s the woman from the book event. She tells Heather that her name is Felicity and that she needs her help to clear Amber Ryan’s name.
Amber used to be best friends with Heather, until she started dating her ex-boyfriend, Jack Shannon. Heather tried to warn Amber off him, as she felt there was something off about him, but Amber wouldn’t listen.
Now, Amber is serving a life sentence for a crime that didn’t even happen. Felicity is adamant that Jack Shannon framed Amber and that he’s a very dangerous man.
Heather needs to rekindle her flame with Jack and collect the evidence. Can she do it?
How I loved this psychological thriller from start to finish!
I adore Jackie Kabler; her books are always full of suspense, and you can expect a twist or two to pop up along the way.
This book certainly didn’t disappoint.
I liked how it was written from the points of view of different people. Jack was such a strange character; there was definitely an element of a psychopath in him. I didn’t understand how someone could have a nocturnal lifestyle like he did; he was almost like a vampire, although I’m sure that vampires are nicer than him!
I know that some people felt that the plot was a bit far-fetched, but I paid no mind to that. I enjoyed it, and it offered me a bit of escapism when I needed it the most.
July 8, 2024
An interesting premise drew me to this book - someone given a life sentence for a crime they didn't commit, and, as it turns out, didn't even happen. What happened to appeals? But that's what stories are all about. Having found Kabler's earlier book The Vanishing of Class 3B an intriguing read, I expected something similar.
However, from the start everything is rather unrealistic. A woman has her bag stolen and arranges a friendly meet-up in a coffee shop with the thief, the conversations between friends and strangers are long and I often forgot what the point of the talk was about. Plus the life sentence is for something that is not quite murder. And every man is absolutely gorgeous, even the nasty ones.
Despite some of the incredulous aspects this is a readable tale. A breezy narrative from two first-person perspectives, and further into the book a third-person point of view from the antagonist. It is an engaging read (will she get caught rooting around someone else's house?) with a kind of P.D. James style ending. Great beach read.
However, from the start everything is rather unrealistic. A woman has her bag stolen and arranges a friendly meet-up in a coffee shop with the thief, the conversations between friends and strangers are long and I often forgot what the point of the talk was about. Plus the life sentence is for something that is not quite murder. And every man is absolutely gorgeous, even the nasty ones.
Despite some of the incredulous aspects this is a readable tale. A breezy narrative from two first-person perspectives, and further into the book a third-person point of view from the antagonist. It is an engaging read (will she get caught rooting around someone else's house?) with a kind of P.D. James style ending. Great beach read.
July 7, 2024
What a thriller! The amount of tension and paranoia built by Kabler was phenomenal. I became suspicious of virtually every character in the book, including Nathan and Felicity.
I was a little sceptical when Heather agreed to date the loathsome Jack again in order to find emails, DVDs and jewellery that would free her former friend Amber from prison. It felt to me as if their friendship was unsalvageable. Plus how much did she really know about Nathan and his sister?
Anyway, doubts aside, I had to admire the way Heather threw herself into the task, sometimes taking additional risks. The tension was unbearable when she started snooping around, disabling cameras and looking for clues, with Jack asleep in the same house.
Felicity's fate was a big surprise, and the twists keep coming thick and fast towards the end. Jack remained a threat throughout and I always had an uneasy feeling something terrible was about to happen.
A highly addictive psychological thriller!
I was a little sceptical when Heather agreed to date the loathsome Jack again in order to find emails, DVDs and jewellery that would free her former friend Amber from prison. It felt to me as if their friendship was unsalvageable. Plus how much did she really know about Nathan and his sister?
Anyway, doubts aside, I had to admire the way Heather threw herself into the task, sometimes taking additional risks. The tension was unbearable when she started snooping around, disabling cameras and looking for clues, with Jack asleep in the same house.
Felicity's fate was a big surprise, and the twists keep coming thick and fast towards the end. Jack remained a threat throughout and I always had an uneasy feeling something terrible was about to happen.
A highly addictive psychological thriller!
May 12, 2024
I enjoyed The Life Sentence, however my biggest gripe is I find it hard to believe Amber was given a life sentence for the crime that was committed. Setting that aside, it was a great concept - being sent to prison for a crime that didn't happen. Whilst it was Amber in prison, the story was mostly told from Heather's point of view. Heather was once Amber's best friend, and she was tasked to get to the bottom of the crime that put Amber in jail. This meant getting back with Jack, an old boyfriend of Heather's, who lived his life during the nighttime and was a clever but very sinister, man. We also got a few chapters from Amber's and Jack's viewpoints and I really liked these. There was plenty of suspense as Heather, working with some allies, tries to get evidence of what Jack had done. I liked the relationship Heather had with Nathan and Felicity, the ones who get her into this situation of helping Amber, and I liked how the housekeeper was portrayed. I could never quite tell whose side she was on. It had a great ending and was an enjoyable story.
April 7, 2024
The pages just flipped themselves on this newest original thriller by Jackie Kabler! I have read a couple books by this author and her stories are unique and fresh and binge worthy. In this one, Amber has been sentenced to prison for a crime she did NOT commit. In fact, the alleged crime never even happened! How is this even possible? Terrifying! Her friend, Heather, comes back into her life and makes the big decision to put herself in harm’s way to try and prove Amber’s innocence. But the tasks and obstacles in front of Heather are not only dangerous they seem impossible. Thank you Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. This book will be available for purchase on May 9, 2024
Want to read
March 18, 2024Is it bad that I didn't like the way it was written? The book is constructed mostly of dialoques (which many consist of unnecesarry talking between characters) and inf dumb about what happened earlier. Maybe the concept of the novel was good, but for me it lacked depth. I couldn't connect with the characters, probably because of the language of the novel, I know some people will like it, and I recommed anyone who is interested in the plot to at least try to read it. It just wasn't for me.
May 11, 2024
Firstly, I usually adore Jackie Kabler novels and look forward to the next brilliant one. The Life Sentence is the latest and while the first half grabbed me, the remaining half left me a little frustrated with Heather trying to take down an ex boyfriend Jack. I was expecting to be blindsided by a major twist at the end = never really happened.
May 12, 2024
Jackie has done it again by writing another great book. I loved it from start to end.
July 14, 2025
Okay I did not expect that last plot twist..
May 5, 2024
I flew through this book in a day. I wanted to know there and then how everything will fall into place and what happens next.
Amber Ryan is in jail. For something she hasn't done. But, how on earth can she prove it? Enter Heather Harris. Her and Amber have something in common. Now Heather must go back to that common feature and delve into the murky secrets and put herself on the line for her ex friend.
The story is told from a first-person point of view of both main characters Amber and Heather. I like this type of narrative as we really get into the minds of the characters. Jackie Kabler uses up all the senses to set the scenes well.
I like to play detectives when I read mysteries. And, this is what I did whilst reading Life Sentence. I did actually figure out a few plotlines along the way. But, this didn't deter me from wanting to carry on.
The pace of this story was well executed. Clues were drip fed to us. Enough to pique our interest and want more. But, not slowly drip fed that we get impatient. And as the case starts to unravel, the pacing ramps up.
Amber Ryan is in jail. For something she hasn't done. But, how on earth can she prove it? Enter Heather Harris. Her and Amber have something in common. Now Heather must go back to that common feature and delve into the murky secrets and put herself on the line for her ex friend.
The story is told from a first-person point of view of both main characters Amber and Heather. I like this type of narrative as we really get into the minds of the characters. Jackie Kabler uses up all the senses to set the scenes well.
I like to play detectives when I read mysteries. And, this is what I did whilst reading Life Sentence. I did actually figure out a few plotlines along the way. But, this didn't deter me from wanting to carry on.
The pace of this story was well executed. Clues were drip fed to us. Enough to pique our interest and want more. But, not slowly drip fed that we get impatient. And as the case starts to unravel, the pacing ramps up.
April 1, 2025
It’s been a little while since I read a thriller but this has made me want to pick another one up as I really enjoyed reading it. This isn’t exactly a book where you have to figure out who the bad guy is because that’s pretty much given as soon as the book starts but it’s more about who worked with them, who can and who can’t be trusted (which at times feels like everyone!) and how justice will be seen…
This had my heart racing and the desire to discuss what was going on with anyone who would listen, like woah I didn’t see that coming, ooh do you think this could be that… if you’re looking for a good book to buddy read then this should definitely go to the top of your list as it’s definitely a conversation starter!!
I’m not going to say too much about the characters because I’ll let you come to your conclusions but this is the third book of Jackie’s I’ve read now and none of them have disappointed! Drama, tension, twists - she has them all!
This had my heart racing and the desire to discuss what was going on with anyone who would listen, like woah I didn’t see that coming, ooh do you think this could be that… if you’re looking for a good book to buddy read then this should definitely go to the top of your list as it’s definitely a conversation starter!!
I’m not going to say too much about the characters because I’ll let you come to your conclusions but this is the third book of Jackie’s I’ve read now and none of them have disappointed! Drama, tension, twists - she has them all!
May 17, 2024
DNF at 70%
It is not like me to quit a book at 70 percent, especially when I've invested so much time already but I just couldn't help it. The story was so unbelievable, characters making the same mistakes almost every single chapter and I could not skip anymore chapters just for the sake of finishing the book. I couldn't care less for the character in prison for a (unbelievable reason!) life sentence nor did I care about the others who are trying to figure out the truth! It simply wasn't worth it anymore.
I've read books by Jackie Kabler before and her books are always entertaining and suspense filled with several cliffhangers. Which was why I'd picked this one up voluntarily. Unfortunately, it wasn't for me.
It is not like me to quit a book at 70 percent, especially when I've invested so much time already but I just couldn't help it. The story was so unbelievable, characters making the same mistakes almost every single chapter and I could not skip anymore chapters just for the sake of finishing the book. I couldn't care less for the character in prison for a (unbelievable reason!) life sentence nor did I care about the others who are trying to figure out the truth! It simply wasn't worth it anymore.
I've read books by Jackie Kabler before and her books are always entertaining and suspense filled with several cliffhangers. Which was why I'd picked this one up voluntarily. Unfortunately, it wasn't for me.
April 22, 2024
3.5 stars, that I'm gonna have to round down because the plot of this is kind of absurd. However, that didn't stop me from flipping madly through the pages to see what was up and how it would all turn out. Even with the outlandish arc of this story, it was quite well thought out and well written. Definitely a page turner that once you are in it, you'll want to read it through to its conclusion.
May 15, 2024
This was a wild ride. Factually correct who knows. Intense yes! Realistic probably not, fun yes!
I blitzed the audiobook as I became addicted to it. I had to get to the bottom of what happened to Amber. It was a fresh take viewing the case through the eyes of the outside, someone who wasn't involved, in walks her ex friend, Heather. She is tasked with uncovering what actually happened and find Amber innocent. Well I say tasked, more like coerced, she was accosted by Felicity as she "stole" her bag, and then the web was woven.
It was nerve wracking but exciting as we followed Heather investigating Jack’s house. The bloody cameras everywhere!! Like Heather I was suspicious of Rona, Felicity and Nathan, everyone felt too good to be true! I just had no idea if anyone was who they say they were and what their own personal end game was.
An exciting tale, ending was a bit twisted (not twisty) and I think I wanted more but at the same time it was satisfying…although why do I feel sorry for the bad guy! It wasn't a big bang, it was subtle and it left me wondering what was next!
I blitzed the audiobook as I became addicted to it. I had to get to the bottom of what happened to Amber. It was a fresh take viewing the case through the eyes of the outside, someone who wasn't involved, in walks her ex friend, Heather. She is tasked with uncovering what actually happened and find Amber innocent. Well I say tasked, more like coerced, she was accosted by Felicity as she "stole" her bag, and then the web was woven.
It was nerve wracking but exciting as we followed Heather investigating Jack’s house. The bloody cameras everywhere!! Like Heather I was suspicious of Rona, Felicity and Nathan, everyone felt too good to be true! I just had no idea if anyone was who they say they were and what their own personal end game was.
An exciting tale, ending was a bit twisted (not twisty) and I think I wanted more but at the same time it was satisfying…although why do I feel sorry for the bad guy! It wasn't a big bang, it was subtle and it left me wondering what was next!
July 7, 2024
A serious contender for the worst book ever written
March 17, 2024
I swear that there must be a hole in my kindle. Either that or my page turn clicks were on warp speed. I mean, I started reading this book and then - poof - it was done. Pacy, packed with intrigue and more than the off moment of threat and unease, this book captured my attention from the rather unexpected and mysterious opener, right to the high stakes ending. A one day read and just what I needed.
Given how the book starts - protagonist Heather attending a book launch event - you'd be forgiven for thinking that this was going to be a somewhat more pedestrian read. You'd be very wrong. If Heather thought that she was just going to meet a favourite author then head back to her happy and steady life as a bookseller ... well she'd be very wrong too. A strange meeting, a 'stolen' handbag and a very cryptic plea later, Heather finds that her very 'steady' life, is about to be thrown into turmoil. Asked by a stranger to help prove the innocence of Heather's one time best friend, Amber, Heather is all too keen to just say no. But, much as mine was, her interest is piqued and it's not long before she finds herself in a whole heap of trouble - trouble that could cost her everything>
From the very beginning of this book I was intrigued. It's a very easy book to fall into the flow of and although we don't really spend much time with the allegedly innocent, Amber, it was enough for me to become invested in her fate and in following Heather as she works alongside two strangers, Nathan and Felicity, to prove that the crime Amber was convicted of, never even happened. With chapters told mostly from Heather's point of view, with the odd chapter from Amber's point of view and also from a third party - the person they suspect of setting her up - it was Heather who I became completely fascinated by. I can see why she might want to walk away, but also why she became so invested in finding the truth, even if that was simply proving that Amber's conviction was sound. But the more she, and we, the reader, learn, the clearer it is that something is not quite right and the seemingly fanciful tale Heather has been told may just be true.
Now the story may seem a little off, and expecting Heather to rekindle a failed romance in order to get to the truth would be enough to raise objections in any rational person. That is certainly the case for Heather and, the more we learn of her ex, Jack, the more her decision to walk away from him makes sense. He should be the perfect catch - rich, good looking and a very capable lover - but, like all good things, there is such a thing as too good to be true, and for all of his good points, there are some very strange habits for the man too. There were times when I would have liked to shake Heather and ask her just what she was doing, but the way in which Jackie Kabler has framed the story, even the most dangerous of situations and the most unlikely of decision kind of felt plausible. Any which way, I didn't much care as I was completely invested in the story - frustrated by some of the maddening decisions Heather took, sure - but very interested to see just how the whole case would play out and what price everyone would have to pay, however it ended.
There is an undulating tension throughout the book. Not too intense, but just that sense of unease and an understanding that nobody really trusts anyone else. Even Heather feels sort of isolated, trusting the word of two virtual strangers against someone she know, albeit that she knows the darker side of Jack too. But as to how dark ... well that you can find out by reading the book. it really did fascinate me and I just found the pacing of the whole thing right on the money, finishing the book in around a day. As for the ending - well, I was definitely left with a wry smile and that feeling that things ended just as they should have. Was justice done - well, read the book and then you decide. A fun, intriguing and attention stealing novel. Really enjoyed it.
Given how the book starts - protagonist Heather attending a book launch event - you'd be forgiven for thinking that this was going to be a somewhat more pedestrian read. You'd be very wrong. If Heather thought that she was just going to meet a favourite author then head back to her happy and steady life as a bookseller ... well she'd be very wrong too. A strange meeting, a 'stolen' handbag and a very cryptic plea later, Heather finds that her very 'steady' life, is about to be thrown into turmoil. Asked by a stranger to help prove the innocence of Heather's one time best friend, Amber, Heather is all too keen to just say no. But, much as mine was, her interest is piqued and it's not long before she finds herself in a whole heap of trouble - trouble that could cost her everything>
From the very beginning of this book I was intrigued. It's a very easy book to fall into the flow of and although we don't really spend much time with the allegedly innocent, Amber, it was enough for me to become invested in her fate and in following Heather as she works alongside two strangers, Nathan and Felicity, to prove that the crime Amber was convicted of, never even happened. With chapters told mostly from Heather's point of view, with the odd chapter from Amber's point of view and also from a third party - the person they suspect of setting her up - it was Heather who I became completely fascinated by. I can see why she might want to walk away, but also why she became so invested in finding the truth, even if that was simply proving that Amber's conviction was sound. But the more she, and we, the reader, learn, the clearer it is that something is not quite right and the seemingly fanciful tale Heather has been told may just be true.
Now the story may seem a little off, and expecting Heather to rekindle a failed romance in order to get to the truth would be enough to raise objections in any rational person. That is certainly the case for Heather and, the more we learn of her ex, Jack, the more her decision to walk away from him makes sense. He should be the perfect catch - rich, good looking and a very capable lover - but, like all good things, there is such a thing as too good to be true, and for all of his good points, there are some very strange habits for the man too. There were times when I would have liked to shake Heather and ask her just what she was doing, but the way in which Jackie Kabler has framed the story, even the most dangerous of situations and the most unlikely of decision kind of felt plausible. Any which way, I didn't much care as I was completely invested in the story - frustrated by some of the maddening decisions Heather took, sure - but very interested to see just how the whole case would play out and what price everyone would have to pay, however it ended.
There is an undulating tension throughout the book. Not too intense, but just that sense of unease and an understanding that nobody really trusts anyone else. Even Heather feels sort of isolated, trusting the word of two virtual strangers against someone she know, albeit that she knows the darker side of Jack too. But as to how dark ... well that you can find out by reading the book. it really did fascinate me and I just found the pacing of the whole thing right on the money, finishing the book in around a day. As for the ending - well, I was definitely left with a wry smile and that feeling that things ended just as they should have. Was justice done - well, read the book and then you decide. A fun, intriguing and attention stealing novel. Really enjoyed it.
April 18, 2024
This was a book that I found challenging to rate fairly. The beginning was solid and intriguing. I was riveted to the pages, wondering what was going on. Later, it slowed down and wasn't making much sense. I was considering a rating of 2 or 3 Stars.
Amber is in prison with a life sentence. She is charged with a murder that never happened, but there is false, manufactured evidence against her. The life sentence seems bizarre on such flimsy proof.
Heather works in a bookstore. She used to be best friends with Amber, but they broke up. Amber was dating a man who had been Heather's former lover. Heather kept nagging Amber that her new romantic interest was utterly unsuitable. The next thing she knew was that Amber was in prison for murder.
It made even less sense that the assumed murder victim, Jack Shannon, was still living in his longtime residence. Heather is recruited by a brother and sister team to rekindle her previous romance with Jack and to enter his mansion to search for a paper trail and CDs to prove Amber's innocence. This puts Heather in a hazardous situation while the brother and sister remain safe and out of harm's way. Apparently, Jack kept proof of falsified crimes in his home and gloated over them. Jack was handsome, sexy, and rich but could not withstand a woman leaving him. He set up a previous girlfriend, Rose, as a thief and was responsible for her death. He also took revenge on Amber.
Jack is far from normal. He takes vengeance on women who break up with him and cannot abide daylight. He sleeps during the day and works running an international company at night.
Heather has returned to Jack's good graces and finds she is still attracted to him. This ends when she learns he is more warped and dangerous than anticipated. Because of his odd sleeping habits, she can search the house but needs to be very cautious. She learns there are hidden cameras everywhere. The creepy live-in housekeeper is always lurking and watching her. She is exhausted while working at the bookstore because Jack demands that she keep him company while watching movies and dining at night.
We get Amber's thoughts while she is in prison. She hopes Heather will save her. Heather wanders through the house in search of any evidence. She is terrorized by the ever-watching housekeeper and the dread that Jack may discover her. I found these parts repetitive and boring. The motives of some characters were difficult to discern. At various times, I felt sure I knew where the plot was heading, but I was rarely correct.
Heather is assisted in her search by a retired detective who gives her advice. She also contacts Jack's former worker and learns what has been happening, but without the hidden CDs and emails, there is not enough to free Amber. There is another murder. She must find the secret documents and get them to the police.
Heather is well on her way to free Amber when all hell breaks loose. The ending contains intense action and heart-pounding suspense, with twists and surprises I hadn't expected. Are the charges against Amber dropped? Does Jack go to prison? An unexpected source arranges two more deaths.
I recommend this book to anyone willing to suspend disbelief and be entertained. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. The date of publication is May 9th.
Amber is in prison with a life sentence. She is charged with a murder that never happened, but there is false, manufactured evidence against her. The life sentence seems bizarre on such flimsy proof.
Heather works in a bookstore. She used to be best friends with Amber, but they broke up. Amber was dating a man who had been Heather's former lover. Heather kept nagging Amber that her new romantic interest was utterly unsuitable. The next thing she knew was that Amber was in prison for murder.
It made even less sense that the assumed murder victim, Jack Shannon, was still living in his longtime residence. Heather is recruited by a brother and sister team to rekindle her previous romance with Jack and to enter his mansion to search for a paper trail and CDs to prove Amber's innocence. This puts Heather in a hazardous situation while the brother and sister remain safe and out of harm's way. Apparently, Jack kept proof of falsified crimes in his home and gloated over them. Jack was handsome, sexy, and rich but could not withstand a woman leaving him. He set up a previous girlfriend, Rose, as a thief and was responsible for her death. He also took revenge on Amber.
Jack is far from normal. He takes vengeance on women who break up with him and cannot abide daylight. He sleeps during the day and works running an international company at night.
Heather has returned to Jack's good graces and finds she is still attracted to him. This ends when she learns he is more warped and dangerous than anticipated. Because of his odd sleeping habits, she can search the house but needs to be very cautious. She learns there are hidden cameras everywhere. The creepy live-in housekeeper is always lurking and watching her. She is exhausted while working at the bookstore because Jack demands that she keep him company while watching movies and dining at night.
We get Amber's thoughts while she is in prison. She hopes Heather will save her. Heather wanders through the house in search of any evidence. She is terrorized by the ever-watching housekeeper and the dread that Jack may discover her. I found these parts repetitive and boring. The motives of some characters were difficult to discern. At various times, I felt sure I knew where the plot was heading, but I was rarely correct.
Heather is assisted in her search by a retired detective who gives her advice. She also contacts Jack's former worker and learns what has been happening, but without the hidden CDs and emails, there is not enough to free Amber. There is another murder. She must find the secret documents and get them to the police.
Heather is well on her way to free Amber when all hell breaks loose. The ending contains intense action and heart-pounding suspense, with twists and surprises I hadn't expected. Are the charges against Amber dropped? Does Jack go to prison? An unexpected source arranges two more deaths.
I recommend this book to anyone willing to suspend disbelief and be entertained. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. The date of publication is May 9th.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2024
This book was right up my alley from the get go. Short chapters that left the reader yearning for the next one. I really liked how even though this was a bit of a complex story line it was very easy to follow and there wasn't too much of unnecessary details before you are thrown right into the plot. Our main character Heather is out loving her life as a successful book seller when she is robbed by Felicity. However when she confronts Felicity she finds out that she only wanted her attention. Felicity confesses that she needs her help in order to help her old friend Amber who is currently serving a life sentence for Murder. Not only is this murder but the victim was a man named Jack who both Heather and her used to date before their falling out. The problem however is felicity confesses is that Jack is actually still alive and dangerous. I found this plot to be really interesting and nothing like I've read before. I was desperate to find out what was really going on with Amber and felt a strong connection with Heather.I loved the characters in this book. They were very well written and you really felt all of their emotions hurt anger confusion desperation. What I normally dislike in novels was the one thing I liked the most in this one, the point of view switch. This gave very important information to the reader and gave a sense of all knowning. This is the kind of book that you can't put down once you start and everytime you think you know what is happening you are thrown another bomb that shakes up everything you though you previously knew. As I mentioned in previous reviews how talented Jackie Kabler is she shines yet again with this one. I love her writing style and I believe that she is going to be a huge name and I'm so pleased that I will be able to say I read her work when. The only negative thing that I have to say about this book was I'm so upset that it took me as long as it did to finish it because this is one that really comes alive. I can't wait to read more of her work as the world needs more authors like her. Great read from start to finish and while the story keeps getting deeper and deeper it's hard to say all the amazing things without spoiling the story itself.
October 17, 2024
“The Life Sentence” is a domestic thriller which relies heavily on psychological pressures and games. It’s a very absorbing and engaging thriller which keeps your attention even though you know you’re being manipulated.
Heather has a nice comfortable life, with a job she loves, good friends, and a nice flat. She’s single, but not overly bothered by that – her last relationship has temporarily put her off men. She’s quite happy as she is.
And then a total stranger steals her handbag. When Heather goes to retrieve it, the stranger begs for help. Heather’s schoolfriend, Amber, is in prison serving a life sentence for a crime committed against Heather’s last boyfriend. But this stranger claims that it’s a miscarriage of justice – and only Heather can gather the evidence to correct it.
I will admit that I didn’t find Heather’s reasons for getting involved in the ensuing game of cat and mouse all that convincing. I think most people would have been a lot warier, and would have asked a lot more questions a lot earlier. Because I wasn’t all that on board with Heather’s motivations, I sometimes raised an eyebrow at her actions too.
But there’s no denying that this is a very successful novel; even though it was obvious that I, the reader, was being manipulated, it was still incredibly difficult to tell what was true and what was false, and what I should believe. In that regard, it was very easy to get swept into Heather’s mindset and experience her confusion and anxiety.
This is a highly readable thriller. Despite a few small niggles, it’s hard to put down. The readable style and tight plot keep you turning the pages, and Heather is an empathetic and vivid heroine. This is an excellent read.
You may be interested in my review of another novel by Jackie Kabler:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
Heather has a nice comfortable life, with a job she loves, good friends, and a nice flat. She’s single, but not overly bothered by that – her last relationship has temporarily put her off men. She’s quite happy as she is.
And then a total stranger steals her handbag. When Heather goes to retrieve it, the stranger begs for help. Heather’s schoolfriend, Amber, is in prison serving a life sentence for a crime committed against Heather’s last boyfriend. But this stranger claims that it’s a miscarriage of justice – and only Heather can gather the evidence to correct it.
I will admit that I didn’t find Heather’s reasons for getting involved in the ensuing game of cat and mouse all that convincing. I think most people would have been a lot warier, and would have asked a lot more questions a lot earlier. Because I wasn’t all that on board with Heather’s motivations, I sometimes raised an eyebrow at her actions too.
But there’s no denying that this is a very successful novel; even though it was obvious that I, the reader, was being manipulated, it was still incredibly difficult to tell what was true and what was false, and what I should believe. In that regard, it was very easy to get swept into Heather’s mindset and experience her confusion and anxiety.
This is a highly readable thriller. Despite a few small niggles, it’s hard to put down. The readable style and tight plot keep you turning the pages, and Heather is an empathetic and vivid heroine. This is an excellent read.
You may be interested in my review of another novel by Jackie Kabler:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
April 5, 2024
Amber Ryan has been imprisoned for a crime, she says she never committed. Is she trying to save her own skin, or has someone very clever and devious framed her?
We are then introduced to Heather, who quietly works in a bookshop. Heather and Amber used to be friends, but even before Amber’s incarceration, their friendship was dwindling. Heather was not there for Amber in her time of need. Heather is contacted by a woman called Felicity and her brother Nathan, regarding the imprisonment of Amber. Amber was convicted of seriously assaulting her boyfriend, Jack. He also happened to be Heather’s ex-boyfriend and he left Heather for Amber.
Heather and Nathan believe that it is Jack who has framed Amber for the whole alleged assault. They convince Heather to assist them to prove this, by getting back with Jack romantically in some sort of honey trap. This is so she can get the necessary evidence of what Jack did. The question lies in that if Heather and Nathan are to be believed, Heather could be putting herself in extreme danger, in order to exonerate her former friend.
Firstly, the good points. The author writes really good escapist thrillers and this definitely fits the bill.
There is, however, no real twist at the end, though the ending is ok. At first, you think Jack is going to be horribly abusive, then he turns out not to be, which makes you question his actions. What really drags the book down though is the questionable legal judgments, especially concerning the ‘sentence’ in the title. I would have liked them to be a little more realistic and less fanciful.
So an ok read, but not a great one.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and Jackie Kabler for the ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
We are then introduced to Heather, who quietly works in a bookshop. Heather and Amber used to be friends, but even before Amber’s incarceration, their friendship was dwindling. Heather was not there for Amber in her time of need. Heather is contacted by a woman called Felicity and her brother Nathan, regarding the imprisonment of Amber. Amber was convicted of seriously assaulting her boyfriend, Jack. He also happened to be Heather’s ex-boyfriend and he left Heather for Amber.
Heather and Nathan believe that it is Jack who has framed Amber for the whole alleged assault. They convince Heather to assist them to prove this, by getting back with Jack romantically in some sort of honey trap. This is so she can get the necessary evidence of what Jack did. The question lies in that if Heather and Nathan are to be believed, Heather could be putting herself in extreme danger, in order to exonerate her former friend.
Firstly, the good points. The author writes really good escapist thrillers and this definitely fits the bill.
There is, however, no real twist at the end, though the ending is ok. At first, you think Jack is going to be horribly abusive, then he turns out not to be, which makes you question his actions. What really drags the book down though is the questionable legal judgments, especially concerning the ‘sentence’ in the title. I would have liked them to be a little more realistic and less fanciful.
So an ok read, but not a great one.
My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK, and Jackie Kabler for the ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.
May 22, 2024
The Life Sentence begins with Heather’s narrative. She works in a bookstore and has a keen interest in thrillers (what a career, sigh!) She is mysteriously contacted by a woman wanting to spill the truth about someone. Heather is told that her childhood friend Amber, who is serving a life sentence in prison, is jailed for a crime that has not been committed and that they should all, along with the woman’s brother, fight to bring the actual perpetrator to justice.
But to do that Heather would have to go back…to him. But knowing his past, will Heather be successful? Moreover, can she trust this brother and sister duo to be telling the truth? Heather will have to risk everything to get her friend justice if she manages to emerge alive out of this.
The scary part for me in a movie or a book is the fear of getting caught when one is snooping around a dangerous person. This book is full of such instances and had me on the edge the entire time. The narrative shifts from Heather’s to Amber’s to Jack’s. But it was Jack’s narrative that had my pulse racing because I desperately wanted to find out how much he knew!
There were places where my suspicion darted from one person to the other and kept my attention wholly towards the book.
I have read Jackie’s books before and I simply love her writing style and plot construction. I started the book last month and finished it in a couple of days. Jackie is fantastic when it comes to narrating thrillers, she knows just how much to reveal and when, making her books an absolute pleasure for the reader.
The Life Sentence is another feather in the author’s cap and is highly recommended if you are into psychological thrillers.
But to do that Heather would have to go back…to him. But knowing his past, will Heather be successful? Moreover, can she trust this brother and sister duo to be telling the truth? Heather will have to risk everything to get her friend justice if she manages to emerge alive out of this.
The scary part for me in a movie or a book is the fear of getting caught when one is snooping around a dangerous person. This book is full of such instances and had me on the edge the entire time. The narrative shifts from Heather’s to Amber’s to Jack’s. But it was Jack’s narrative that had my pulse racing because I desperately wanted to find out how much he knew!
There were places where my suspicion darted from one person to the other and kept my attention wholly towards the book.
I have read Jackie’s books before and I simply love her writing style and plot construction. I started the book last month and finished it in a couple of days. Jackie is fantastic when it comes to narrating thrillers, she knows just how much to reveal and when, making her books an absolute pleasure for the reader.
The Life Sentence is another feather in the author’s cap and is highly recommended if you are into psychological thrillers.
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