Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer

Nightmares #1

by Demelza Carlton

Six months ago, Nathan's sister was brutally murdered.
Now the former playboy desires only one thing: revenge.
Late at night, Nathan trudges down the beach where his sister's body was found. He's searching for answers, but all he finds is a new nightmare: another girl's tortured body.
Only this one isn't dead . . . yet.
The unlikely hero becomes the prime suspect. Saving Caitlin's life was just the start. Nathan must win her trust and unlock the memories hidden in her nightmares to find out who's really responsible . . .before it's too late.

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Thriller, Ebooks, Fiction, Suspense, Mystery Thriller

351 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 29, 2013

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.
She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No - Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean's Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn't leave her alone.

Reviews

[daph pink ♡ · Rating 1 out of 5]

First things first, this book has got some serious issues!
The book was bad and what’s worse is the promise of second part.

Lets introduce you to the main characters – the child prodigy Caitlin Lockyer, a girl who completed her medical studies at the age of 17, this doesn’t make sense like this book.
Okay honestly this girl was kidnapped and was raped by 4 guys and was later discovered by our hero Nathan Miller on beach who protected her and stayed with her till she revealed the names of people who did this to her. Read book to know how, I am not telling.

The hero of the book Nathan Miller aka stupid horny bastard. I really want to criticize him here but I am short of words how much I hated him and his pervert mindset. His horny mind thought nothing more than how to kiss her, get in her bed, control his morning wood, how her breasts are or how beautiful her eyes,nose,mouth,ear,eyebrows,hands,toes etc are?
I can’t breathe the same air with him.

In short the story was pointless and the book was useless I somehow managed to keep myself alive.

[Lectus · Rating 1 out of 5]

I must be missing something really big in this book because it has a lot, and I mean a lot of 5 and 4 stars ratings. Why, I ask, the book is horrible.

Nathan rescues Caitlin who had been kidnapped, tortured, abused, raped in all possible ways, ... and so on.

The first thing that made me dislike the book is that every fucking chapter starts with Caitlin's broken semi-monologue. Actually, let me copy some here:

"Hold her for me.
No...
Hold her still.
No...
Don't touch me!
Oh God, so much pain. I need HELP.
Two of them...
Dark.
Pain."

I mean, I got it the first time, okay? But every single chapter of this shit? Annoying.

After Nathan rescues Caitlin, she is in the hospital, sedated and sleeping for I don't know how many days straight. Meanwhile, Nathan watches her sleep, fantasizes about her... and, I kid you not, KISSES her.

Wow, a girl who has been super raped, you kissed her. Fine, she was asleep but, don't you have any concerns of getting some type of disease? Don't you care about what she was forced to do with that mouth? Apparently no.

Moving on, Caitlin is just 17 but, guess what? She is already in medical school!!! Even more, she must had been doing some type of residency or something at the hospital where she's staying because they know her there.

So, 17 and medical school? NO WAY!

And did I mention that all the time that Caitlin was sedated and having nightmares all she would do was toss around, scream, cry and say "you promised.... you promised..."

Well, this "you promised" was for Nathan who promised to help her. So every time Nathan thought was time to hit the road, Caitlin would conveniently whisper "you promised..." and Nathan would stay.

But did he stay because of this or because he liked Caitlin? CREEPYYY! Yes, he acknowledged she had all the right curves in the right places, he kissed her while sleeping, he jumped to bed to sleep next to her and hug her so she could calm down... This sleeping with a rape victim to calm her down I don't get, seriously. However, all of that would be okay if Caitlin wasn't 17 and Nathan close to 40!! Seriously, the guy is over 30 and fancying a brutally raped girl who is hospitalized?

Please tell me they don't end up together! Please! Although the book is cataloged under romance... Disgusting.

I tried to move past those incongruities but I just couldn't. I was forcing myself to keep reading and it just made me nauseous. Oh, I did feel it for Caitlin, it was Nathan's character who ruined it.

But Alas! this is just book #1 of crap. Congratulations to those who can finish it.

I should definitely come up with a zero star rating for shit like this.

[Kevis Hendrickson · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a while to figure out how to write this review. There was something about this book that made me pause. It wasn't until I'd reflected on it for a while that I figured out what it was that jolted me. Over the past few years, I've been reading a lot of books written by indie authors. Incidentally, I've also found myself losing interest in reading fiction. It wasn't because the indie books I read were crap. I usually do a good job of avoiding the dreck out there. What it all boiled down to was I just wasn't having a whole lot of fun reading and was unable to put my finger on the reason why.

Until now.

Most of the books I've been reading have been well-written with intriguing concepts and interesting perspectives. However, there has been something lacking with most of them. Something that this book had that the others didn't.

A soul.

The books that grab my attention the most--the ones that keep me turning pages and not reaching for the TV Remote, are the ones that have something to say. It makes no difference what the subject matter is: whether it's a book about laser sword wielding warrior-priests, a book about a mother grieving over her dead child, or a book where stuff blows up every other page. What matters is that the book stays with me long after I finish reading it.

The Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer has a soul and that's part of what kept me turning pages. I found this book to be smart, haunting, thought-provoking, insightful, thrilling, and even amusing at times. Ultimately, this book was just downright riveting and held my attention the entire time.

My only complaint about this story were the internal monologues of Nathan. I found it off-putting, if not insensitive on his part (and unrealistic), that throughout the whole ordeal of Caitlin recovering from being brutally raped (an event which nearly killed her, I might add) that he keeps having these impulses to have sex with her. Even if he was physically attracted to her, which is understandable considering how pretty she is, I didn't enjoy having to read about his constant musings over wanting to have an intimate relationship with her, especially since she was very damaged and couldn't even walk for most of the book because of her horrible injuries. Maybe other readers won't have as much of a problem with that as I did. But as a guy, I had a problem with it. I can understand that there was sexual tension between them as they grew closer. Maybe revealing these feelings after she had recovered would have been a better way to handle it. But there was something unhealthy about it to me.

But other than that one issue, I have nothing but good things to say about this book. It's clear the author put great care into writing this book and readers are richer for it.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention that this book does have strong language and some occasional graphic violence. But it totally suits the mood and befits its dark storyline.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer and would recommend it to anyone who likes a moving story with a brilliant surprise ending. I will certainly be checking out the sequel and more books by this author.

4 Stars for a wonderfully written, fully involved, and engaging read.

Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

[angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that has very strong subject matter. It evokes strong emotion from deep inside. I read a couple other reviews, basically saying that it's horrible to romanticize, rape, torture, brutally etc.. I personally didn't feel the abuse was romanticized at all. Sadly in the real world these things happen.. And people react all different ways to abuse. The person that experienced it, and the people in that person's life. There is no right or wrong. This is a story for our entertainment, and it's just my opinion that the Author did a wonderful job with this book.

Nathan finds Caitlin broken, bloodied, and brutalized on a beach. She's terrified, freezing in pain, mentally, physically, and completely hysterical. They didn't know each other before this horrific night. But he stays with her, and promises not to leave her, and to keep her safe. He speaks kind words of reassurance on the way to the hospital, and has a calming effect on her. Once at the hospital he had decided, he was going to leave, in till she says in her sleep ....you promised, you promised. Him knowing what she means feels guilty and he stays with her.

During this time in the beginning, he thinks anyone would be a scoundrel to think of her in a sexual way. As she heals, she's a very attractive young woman, and despite himself finds her attractive. He berates himself, and fights the attraction, but it's hard when she trusts only him, and he finds himself helping her in ways he never imagined, and would rather not. He also tries but to no avail, not to do some of the things he finds himself having to do. However, he's not going to not help her when she needs it.

Nathan is far from perfect, and is a love um and leave um kinda guy. Something he has no problem admitting. But he is honest, and up front with his dates that it won't be serious. He does do a few questionable things in the hospital that had me scratching my head. He is one very confused man.

Caitlin is a strong, proud woman with the will to survive. The abuse she endured has ripped her to the core. She turns to Nathan for support, and safety. So they end up spending a lot of time together, and get to know each other better. Through talking they find out she might still be in danger?

This book caught me in its web from the get go, and I couldn't stop reading. So much happens. The story slowly coils around you like a boa constricter that's not letting go. Then when you think you have things figured out, BAM the boa strikes.

It was emotional to read about what happened to Caitlin, and how hard it was for her after her abuse. Like I said before this is a very emotional book on a lot of levels. I found myself going through a gamut of emotions, for the duration of the book. It takes a great writer to spin such a story, keep the reader so captivated, and induce such raw emotion. And hold it Throughout the whole book, but Demelza Carlton did just that. I can't wait to start the next book, it's killing me to find out what happens next. You won't believe the end of this book holly carp, where did that come from? You never see it coming, it's like driving along, then all of a sudden a car coming from no where, and broad sideding you. Yup...I had to re-read the end a couple times lol.

[Megan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I cannot even fathom what would possess anyone to give this piece of crap more than 1 star, let alone 4 or 5! Has the author hacked all your accounts in order to raise her rating? Out of the hundreds of books I’ve read in my life, this one, without exaggeration, could possibly be the worst I’ve ever come across. I have a rule for myself to always finish books, but this one tested my limits. I finished it, but I sure as hell won’t be torturing myself through the others in the series.

**Spoilers Ahead**

Nathan’s sister is abducted, tortured, and murdered, and this leads him to get hired under contract by ASIO (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation) so he can find the people responsible, and prevent his other sister from meeting the same fate. From what I can gather of the author’s confused and muddled attempt at a story concept, Nathan was supposed to witness an abduction, so that he could find the people who did this to his sister… but this in itself makes no sense. If he was in the right place at the right time to witness the abduction, this would mean he already knew the people responsible. Not to mention that he knew when and where she would be dumped on the beach when she was near death. It appears that Chris may have been an inside guy that was meant to rescue Caitlin before it was too late (because, if he wasn’t, then how would Nathan and the ASIO know when and where to “rescue” her), but Nathan shoots him, so I’m not sure if he was or not. And if he was an inside guy, again that would make Nathan’s purpose moot, because it would mean that ASIO already knows everyone responsible.

There’s also the fact that the woman ringleader of the murderous group apparently spent quite a while inside Caitlin’s house, shredding every scrap of her clothing… While this was happening, Caitlin’s house was under surveillance by ASIO, who was wanting to capture at least one of these people alive. So why did they never make a move to capture this woman while she was preoccupied shredding clothing?! Also, Nathan spends just about every minute with Caitlin for weeks after he finds her on the beach, but his motivation for everything in the first place was to keep his other sister safe… but he barely even sees or speaks to her at all throughout the book. There appears to be absolutely no relevant reason why Caitlin was abducted. Nathan’s sister’s abduction may have been due to his parents’ activities (more on that in a second), which is why he feared for his other sister, but if that’s the case, why was Caitlin abducted?

Another lazy writing aspect of this piece of crap is the way the author gets the parents out of the way. Nathan’s parents are in Dubai, and their activity is what may or may not have led to Alanna’s (Nathan’s sister) abduction. They didn’t give a damn about their abducted and murdered daughter. Same with Caitlin’s dad. He’s a businessman in Europe, and gives Caitlin a call in the hospital after she’s found (she has been missing for a month at that point) only to tell her he’ll be gone for another three months.

I could go on and on about how absolutely nothing in this book makes any sense at all, but I’d prefer just to end my rant here, and never think about it again. I didn't even go into everything wrong with the characters themselves. This book is just ridiculously horrible in every way possible.

And to all the people who gave this thing a 4 or 5 star rating… may your mental handicaps not prevent you from living long and happy lives.

[Bella Roccaforte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Smokes!!! This book is completely amazing. I could not put it down.

There are times when the book is a little cloudy, it's meant to be so roll with it. The relationship that develops between Nathan and Caitlin is constantly overshadowed by the ordeal Caitlin went through.

Carlton pours the emotion out onto the page in a satisfying way rendering your feeling for everyone involved. It was masterful!

Of course you have suspend some disbelief for how some of the things happened in hospital, but that's why they call it fiction.

One thing to keep in mind during the reading of this book is that it takes place in Perth, Australia. So for us northern hemisphere folks remember September is spring;).

Read this book, it is amazing. It is a quick read, because like I said you can't put it down once you get going.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Colleen Bratley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intrigue, suspense and a gut wrenching story that you can't put down. It's a straight forward story written so that you feel it all, every inch of the way, and still left wondering what really happened.

Caitlin escaped from her captors, or did she? She had help from someone named Chris or so it seemed. But then Nathan just happened to be there to find her, or wasn't it a coincidence? Who did this to her? Why? How did they pick her, was it random or is there a much bigger picture? These are questions that flutter your thoughts as you turn page after page hoping to find all the answers. You analyze all the details deciding to be the super sleuth and figure it all out before you get to the end, but good luck with that.

Demelza Carlton has a gift when she writes; the gift of weaving a story of intrigue while setting a stage that appears to be straightforward, yet is anything but. She creates characters that you root for, care for, and yet aren't sure of. You wonder if you should believe what they are saying, or realize they mean different from what you understood. She keeps you on your toes and rooted to the story, making it impossible to do anything but keep turning the pages. She invites you into the story and then anchors you with your soul, wrapping the words around every fiber of your being making you not only unable, but unwilling to put it down, even after the last page.

Somewhere during the tale you think you have it all figured out, but when you get to the end, you're lucky if you did. That's all I can say because I didn't quite hit the mark. But wait, she ends it with a blast of question marks searing your brain with only a few simple words. And now you have to know more. Now you realize there is much, much more to this story, and you just have to know what it is. Even though you still had questions about some things, the last page actually cranked the engine to warp speed of wanting the answers.

The characters are developed with such depth, that you realize this book has really only scratched the surface, drawing you to start the search for book two. Actually, Demelza shouldn't be allowed to publish a series without all of them being ready for sale. Simple as that. It should be against the law.

I think it's quite obvious I really liked this story, and loved the writing ability even more. It was wonderful, superb and a must read. Every one she writes I'm sure is great. I know I will be finding that out as soon as possible.

[Theodora Gotsis · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was just plain awful. The devastating struggles that Caitlin dealt with were not developed as well as they could have been and why wouldn't the hospital give the girl some trauma counseling after being kidnapped and brutalised? The setting was too sketchy to get a good feel for and the characters were unconvincing to say the least.
I kept reading because as bad as it was flowing, there was a slight promise that it would improve. Unfortunately, this didn't happen. I was confused for most of the story and moreso when I finished. Maybe it was only kobo ebooks but the last chapter was so full of typos that I was wondering if it indicated that the characters were both undergoing some kind of psychosis. Still confused I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone I like.

[Katie (Katie's Corner Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

See this and more at http://crasyabout.blogspot.com

I got this book from the author in exchange of a review, all the thoughts here are mine...

The book is just AMAZING. No other words can describe it. It is really a good work of fiction. Nothing paranormal, just one life of a girl and a boy.

We all have nightmares. We're always afraid of a monster coming for us in them. But what if our nightmares are true, and the monsters in them are people? What then? The story tells us about 17 year old Caitlin Lockyer who was tortured and then left to die on the beach, only to be rescued by a young man - Nathan, and to be haunted by nightmares of that events. The book is full of mystery and is thrilling from the first page to the last one. While the protagonist and the main story teller is Nathatn, every chapter, which is only 1 page long and is told in Caitlin's voice is what makes the book amazing. The style of describing the nightmare is amazing, and horrifying both. So vivid, that I really thought better of reading the book at night. Sometimes Nathan's words didn't make sense, but when you read them again and when you will read Caitlin's memories, then you will understand them, and you will definitely be craving the second book. Which I think will be much more intriguing and much more thrillingly amazing.

The only hint that I will give you is this: our actions always trigger something, it's physics. But we need to remember, that sometimes by our closing eyes on the problems, our loved ones can suffer and not only them. Think about something twice before doing it, especially when it concerns your loved ones. I hope you wil be as thrilled by the books as I am. It truly is an amazing book, and I am looking forward laying hands on the "Nessesary Evil" the second book of Nightmares' trilogy. Grab your copy now, so that you won't have to wait for yours as I am. Happy Reading, and enjoy it. Don't forget to leave comments and never ever sit in the stranger's car!!! Enjoy the book :))

[Yukiichi Se-it · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the book from Wattpad (although I never left a comment there). And it was so intriguing, that I could spend my whole day facing my mobile phone, anticipating what would happen next. Because I had no way of knowing. The fog of mystery was thick!

So, off with the book, it was amazing. It dealt with the people inside it realistically, the characters, either protagonist or antagonist (it was hard to distinguish which was which at some point), had suffered, had been traumatized, and had stood back on their feet. Nathan was a well-developed character with somewhat strong sense of responsibility, and yet he also had flaws and challenges of a healthy young man.

In Caitlin's sleep in the hospital, Nathan was given time to reflect upon things he hadn't minded before. Guilt and, anxiousness mixing all together. He was dissected inside out with the emotions and thoughts that came by. And his character grew some more.

The twists in the plot came unexpectedly as well. Anyone could be a criminal! Everyone was a suspect, well, at least for me. I suspected each and everyone of them as someone with hidden agenda. As I've said, the fog of mystery was thick.

Aside from that, it challenged the sense of justice and forgiveness in a distorted way. There she was, traumatized but fighting back. And she had fought the demons off. Wait, this isn't a spoiler right?

This was an amazing book! So remember: Keep fighting, don't let them win.

Be supporting the sequel, Necessarily Evil!

[Fenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is original in its approach and the depth of describing what horrendous abuse does to a person in a way that the reader can relate to without being too grossed out. As we follow Caitlin from her rescue through her recovery we get to know Nathan, the other protagonist as well.

The story is told from the point of view of Nathan, his role, however, continues to be mysterious, apart from the fact that he falls in love with Caitlin, whom he has promised to protect.

Overall it was a slow build up, that managed to still keep me engaged. The end contains a number of twists and turns, mostly unexpected, answering some of the questions and raising a number of new ones, making me interested in book two.

[Nikki Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is one insane mystery! It starts off with a bang, I mean just jumps right into the chaos that makes up the book. The lead character gets swept up in Caitlin's life as he saves her from something and is now in the hospital with her. She's in a coma but her nightmares keep her in a state of panic.

This is a dark, gritty, well paced suspense novel. It makes you question everyone around you, but as Nathan fights to learn the truth and keep his promise made to a girl left for dead, the truth can't be far....or can it?

I can't wait for the rest of the books. Wow. This one really kept me on my toes!

[Jamie Rose · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer

This was o.k.. I guess you need to read all three for it to make complete sense but I got this book for free, I can't honestly say I liked it well enough to pay and read the rest.

And as Goodreads apparently publishes notes as yet another annoying feature...I didn't like the quote, I simply found a 17 year old in med school unbelievable

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Setting: Perth, Australia. Caitlin Lockyer was kidnapped off the street by a gang and subjected to torture, rape and abuse whilst in captivity. She is later found, nearly dead, on a beach by Nathan Mitchell, who is the narrator of the story (interspersed with Caitlin's 'stream of consciousness' nightmares). It is apparent from the outset that Nathan's 'rescue' of Caitlin and his subsequent desire to remain with her in hospital and recuperating afterwards are part of a hidden agenda which is gradually but not totally revealed as the story progresses. I don't really want to expand too much on the storyline for fear of spoilers but I just don't know what I think of this book. I don't particularly like Nathan as a person and he is an unreliable narrator; similarly Caitlin seems to know more than she is letting on and is perhaps not as innocent in everything as Nathan is making out (and nor is Nathan). Also, to get to the end and find there is no particular resolution is annoying - there are in fact two more books, the sequel telling the story from Caitlin's point of view but I am torn between the desire to hear her side of things and my difficulty in engaging with either of the main characters. I probably would buy the sequel if it was 99p but am not keen on spending over £2 GBP to read the continuation. As for rating this one, I have been torn between two stars and three - I generally rate okay reads as 3 stars so I suppose this one would be at the low end of the 3 star rating and not one I would recommend particularly to friends - 6/10.

[Kayla Krantz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dark, gritty, and captivating.

The Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer is not for the faint of heart.

After saving Caitlin’s life from a group of sadistic torturers, a cop named Nathan sits at her bedside, desperate to keep his promise—that he would not leave her side. Caitlin is broken when she finally wakes, but the one thing that keeps her going is the fact that Nathan keeps his promise.

Caitlin’s memories, broken up throughout the book, are both chilling and realistic. Her nightmares always lead to her screaming for Nathan to save her. Every time he is by her side and as the days go on, she remembers more and more about what happened to her.

Even though this is the first book of a series, I felt as if this book could be read alone. However, there were a few questions I had left over. Hopefully, these are answered later on. I’ll definitely read on to find out.

[Grant Leishman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Everyone reads a book for different reasons and we all have different opinions on the merit or otherwise of each book we read. I was conflicted by Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer, for a couple of reasons. The existing reviews on it swayed from 5-Star glowing reviews right through to 1-Star scathing reviews. In the end, I made the decision that the only way I was going to get a handle on it was to read it myself.

In my opinion, it is neither as fantastic as some would have us believe nor is it as diabolically awful as others would suggest. The premise of the book; a girl who was kidnapped and subjected to horrific physical, emotional and sexual abuse over a period of two months is rescued by a "knight in shining armour", although we do learn later that the knight's armour may not be quite as shining as first thought.

The story follows Caitlyn Lockyer's return from a coma in the hospital through the horrific nightmares and recovery back to health. The whole time, he knight in shining armour (a total stranger supposedly) is there beside her bed encouraging, supporting and sharing her anguish.

It is at times a brutal story, but at its heart it is, of course, a love story. I found the characters only partly believable. The girl was definitely too young for the back history created by Carlton, but nevertheless, she was well portrayed as vulnerable, innocent and very easy, as a reader, to identify with. I found the end of the book just a shade confusing and this may be the due to the fact that a sequel was being anticipated and set up.

This is an excellent book for those who like their romance a little hard, a little frightening and a little dangerous. In conclusion, I did actually enjoy the read and would have no problem recommending it for people to buy and enjoy. If I could give half stars, it would be 3.5 for this book, but I'll settle for three only because of the continual confusion I felt when trying to relate to the lead, male character Nathan. I would classify it as a good, solid read.

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

** I received a free eCopy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review **

Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer was a powerfully emotional read. Caitlin is a young woman who was abducted by a sadistic group of people and repeatedly tortured. She was found one night on a beach by a man named Nathan who saves her. Over the course of the next few months, Nathan becomes more than just Caitlin's rescuer. He becomes her friend. Her confidante. Her constant companion. And her protector.

Nathan will do anything to help Caitlin recover. Anything.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading it. It is action packed and full of mystery and intrigue. Don't even try to guess at what is going on or what will happen next because I guarantee you, you will be wrong!

The characters are well written and plenty complex. I couldn't decide how I felt about Nathan. I really wanted to like him., if for nothing else than just his devotion to seeing Caitlin through her horrifying ordeal but something about him kept me right on the brink. He was sweet and charming and dedicated when it came to Caitlin but he seemed so cocky and arrogant and downright creepy otherwise. The author kept him so shrouded in mystery that right up until the end of the book, I couldn't tell if he was a "good guy" or a "bad guy". Also, I really liked Caitlin's character. I didn't like what happened to her but I did like her character. You can't help but admire her strength and resiliency. And the backbone she shows in parts of the story is quite impressive.

This was a great book. If you like a dark, mysterious read. If you like an author to keep you guessing until the very last page. If you like strong female characters. Read Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer by Demelza Carlton. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more from this author.

[Ginger Gelsheimer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Brief synopsis: Nathan Miller becomes Caitlin Lockyer’s hero after he saves her after she was left for dead on the beach. Was it kidnap and rape, or something much bigger that turned Caitlin into a victim? Nathan’s secret torments him as he falls for Caitlin while he helps her heal both physically and mentally, never leaving her side. To make things worse, their nightmare isn’t over because the bad guys are still after Caitlin.

The story unfolded quickly, sucking you right in with the terrible situation Nathan Miller has found himself in. Ms. Carlton did a great job creating a suspenseful ghost that traveled with me through the entire story, building the anticipation the entire way. I knew things were going to be bigger than what we were being told…I knew it!

Originality: I enjoyed the story being told from Nathan’s point of view, sweating that his secret was going to show its ugly self. He did creep me out at times though with his mind running rampant with sexual thoughts, especially after such a horrific event, but I learned it was just part of Nathan. When Caitlin meets his sister, it put things in better perspective.

Characters: The characters were well developed. Nathan’s anxiety had me on edge the whole book and his desperation in wanting to keep her safe. Caitlin’s determination and strength were inspiring. I can’t imagine suffering through an ordeal as terrible as what Caitlin experienced. I felt her frustrations as she struggled to do even the simplest tasks, just wanting to feel normal.

Recommendation: This book goes well with spicy tuna sushi and hot jasmine tea because it has a lot of kick that needs to be soothed, just like Caitlin. I enjoyed reading Nightmares of Caitlin Locker and look forward to reading the sequel.

[Hellvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Demelza Carlton’s ‘Nightmares’ is an exceptional piece of work. Dark and gritty, it will send shivers down your spine and slowly capture your heart as Caitlin’s Nightmares unfold. The current popularity of Supernatural and Paranormal fiction makes it very easy to forget that monsters don’t just exist in the shadows of imagination - they can be much more real.

How well do you really know your neighbourhood policeman, or that nice couple across the road? That man who stopped to ask you for directions - what does he do in his spare time? The answers could be the death of you.

When Nathan Miller finds a girl left for dead on a darkened beach, he makes her a promise which he fights tooth and nail to keep, regardless of the cost.

The opening chapters feature Nathan and an unconscious Caitlin in a hospital room; under surveillance and with guards at the door as Caitlin re-lives the horrors she was subjected to via violent dreams which only Nathan seems able to vanquish.

After Caitlin awakens, he becomes her lifeline, her safety net, confidante and friend. Nathan is keeping his promise, but he’s also keeping a lot of secrets…

The plot of ‘Nightmares’ has more twists and turns than your Granny’s knitting basket and will keep you guessing long after the last line has been read. It is not simply a rollercoaster ride of thrills, chills and suspense. It is a testament to the dogged determination of the human spirit; lust, trust, loyalty, revenge, justice and forgiveness.

[Jagged · Rating 1 out of 5]

I must have missed something.
This book was awful, and it just kept getting worse.
I'm not entirely sure what the point of this read was.

Caitlin survives a horrible experience. But it doesn't feel that way. I didn't feel the barbaric nature this read was trying to exude. And the writing is the culprit here.

Carlton spends the entire book making Caitlin out to be a little bitch. Somehow, she made it so I couldn't even really feel sorry for her.
How is that?
I should have been biting my nails for this poor girl. I should have been crying.
Caitlin reduces the acts to "hurting me", softening the blows of all the atrocities.
She doesn't have any real drive to do anything--you're told she does, but you're never shown it. There is no actual emotion behind this book whatsoever.
Caitlin's memories are so disjointed and so vague that I never got to feel the full force of what had taken place.

Nathan is a scoundrel. I hated his voice. Carlton tried too hard to make him seem like a man, but he was just disgusting.
I'm thinking that I was supposed to be in awe of him because he was still attracted to Caitlin despite her scars. But he was just creepy. Not once during the read did he actually feel genuine in anything he supposedly felt.

This book rubbed me entirely the wrong way. There was nothing about it that I found tasteful, remotely plausible, reasonable, or inspiring. This didn't even register enough with me for me to hate it.

I won't read further, and I certainly wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking for a deep, touching read.

[JadeShea · Rating 2 out of 5]

Received the book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer begins when Nathan finds Caitlin and brings her to the hospital. He knows that she was raped, and brutally tortured for the last three weeks, and now he's determined to get close to her and find the people who've done this to her. Because well that's his job... But Caitlin is having a horrible time trying to remember what happened to her. Most of it only comes back in her nightmares, and she can't even feed herself let alone right down what she's dreaming about. So Nathan comes in to help her. He promises to protect her even though he's a stranger.

This book has a lot of mystery to it. And maybe a touch of romance. But I just didn't like it. I felt a curious confusion in the beginning, but then that confusion just sort of stayed with me through out the whole book. I understood the gist of the whole book but the rest of it just left me frustrated, and trying to figure out what was going on. Especially in the end, it wasn't really a cliffhanger, but it still left me with a whole lot of confusion. And I also didn't like the fact that Caitlin was this meek, weak, damaged woman who needed help at the start, but then by the end of the book she was able to kill people. Seriously I thought that was like changing her personality completely. So I have to say I liked the idea of the book, but it just left me frustrated, and confused through out most of it.

[Jalpa Williby · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you pick up the pieces when you've been through hell and back? What happens when you've given up and you were ready to end it all? Suddenly, your knight in shining armor finds you and doesn't let you give up. What if the person you've believed to be your hero may not be a hero after all?

This story definitely held my attention. It had me guessing from the beginning. There are many disturbing parts but it was imperative to have them so the readers can understand the horror of the situation.

I really enjoyed that this book was written from the hero's point of view. I liked how the author allowed the readers to only see bits of Nathan- always holding back, keeping us guessing.

At first, you may think that Caitlin is weak and needy. But as the story develops, you realize that she's very strong- especially to survive her horrific ordeal. Her strength is really shown at the end of the book.

This book left me with more questions. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel to help put some of the pieces of the puzzle together. I'd love to get to know Nathan better as he is my favorite character in the book.

This book has bits of everything: suspense, action, mystery, romance. I'm definitely glad I read this book. Can't wait to read the next one in the series!

[Kirsty Bicknell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer is a story able to hook its reader immediately with its ambiguity, emotion and tension. Although compelling, at times this is a difficult book to read but Demelza Carlton overcomes this by alternating Nathan and Caitlin's narratives.
For the first twenty three chapters the main voice is Nathan's, his part in the story initially puzzling, yet it is clear he is more than just Caitlin's knight in shining armour. Nathan's chapters are interspersed with Caitlin's nightmares, which are short, but powerful memories of her abuction and rape, constantly reminding the reader of how much she has endured.
When Caitlin regains consciousness Nathan's role becomes more important and Demelza Carlton develops their relationship carefully and slowly. Nathan's love for Caitlin is believable and his selfish reasons for taking care of her after her abuction become forgotten, particularly during the final third of the book when Demelza Carlton builds her story's climax.
I enjoyed how Demelza Carlton was able to successfully combine the mystery and suspense of the plot with the sensitive subject of Caitlin's rape. This was a book I found I had to read to the end and I hope to pick up its sequel soon.

[Mommasaysread · Rating 4 out of 5]

By Momma on September 13, 2013


Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer was recommended to me by a friend. She said it was fantastic – she wasn’t wrong.

Now I didn’t absolutely love it like she did, but I liked it quite a lot. For me the book was a slow build. Sometimes it felt like it was dragging a bit, but it actually wasn’t. It was like riding a rollercoaster to the top, the trolley inches to the top and then BAM! You are flung over the side and chaos has taken over.

I felt like there was too much time spent in the hospital, but in general I think it lent itself to the build. Often times you think you know what’s happening, what’s actually happened and then you find out you were completely wrong. You could spend hours just trying to figure out what’s happening, when in reality it will be much better if you spend the time reading to find out if you are right!

Overall I think it was a good read if you like a book with a slow build and a huge bang. Momma Says Read This Book!
What Does Momma Think?

Momma Gives Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer (Nightmares Trilogy) by Demelza Carlton 4 Cookies!

[Jada Ryker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reality Worse Than Nightmares

In The Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer, by Demelza Carlton, the reader is drawn into the story from the very beginning. Nathan Miller saved Caitlin Lockyer from a homicidal maniac with a gun. In the process, Caitlin shot and killed the maniac, and police officers shot both Nathan and Caitlin. At the hospital, Nathan pledges to keep Caitlin safe.

Suffering from a gunshot wound and horrific nightmares, Caitlin wants to be safe. With the friends of her attacker still on the loose, her reality is worse than her nightmares.

The perverted group of criminals hadn’t started with Caitlin. And Nathan, whose own loss hit close to home, fears they won’t stop with Caitlin. With other women at risk, Nathan must stop the gang before it’s too late. And when it becomes apparent the gang is more than a group of crazed rapists, Nathan is faced with the choice of using Caitlin for bait to catch them…or living with the guilt of subsequent victims.

Ms. Carlton has done an excellent job. She has created realistic characters. At the same time, she handles difficult subjects with a deft and sure touch.

[Saumya singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer is a high alert for all mystery lovers and for those who love a good challenge to solve a mystery. This book is so full of mystery and suspense that it grips your shoulders at every word. The book’s conclusion shocks you to the core. The answers which we are not the ones we anticipated or even imagined in our wildest hopes.

The story follows a young man and a young girl and revealing anything more about the story will be a crime to anyone who reads the book. The girl has as many thoughts as the colours in a prism and the man’s thoughts run deeper than the trenches on the ocean beds. Both these characters are worth discovering on your own.

Demelza Carlton shows a lot of promise in her field. Though the plot, the story and the characters are marvelous the starting of the book is not as griping as it should be. It is the only flaw in the carving of the book. And to be honest I can’t wait to read its sequel.

To describe the book in one word I would say Breathtaking.


And i would rate it with 4 stars

[books are love · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for a honest review

This is a amazing and powerful book. I did not expect that twist in the end nor did I expect Chris to have such animosity towards her brother. I mean heck all he was trying to do was protect her.

As you sit and read the story and horrors Caitlyn went through you will cry and be so proud to see someone so strong. Nathan he was amazing. Did some stupid things and was guilt ridden but still had a good heart. His protectiveness is his downfall but he was still a interesting character. Makes you wonder who is a villain and who isn’t. Is it worse to be too late or to cause all the pain? Or is it possible to be both without being the one that left the scars? Nathan has these questions going on for him.
A powerful and incredible book I cannot wait to see how Nathan goes on and if he and Caitlyn will have a chance again. He needs answers and peace I wonder if he gets it. The next book I look forward to reading.

[Paul Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not the kind of book I usually read, but that's a good thing. New vistas are always good for the mind. This one is a dark tale about a woman who has been horribly abused and the man who makes a commitment to be her savior, regardless of the cost. This young woman is so badly hurt by her experiences that she withdraws into her own nightmares during her coma, which occupies the first fifth of the book. Slowly, as she awakens and comes out of her cocoon, the truth about her experiences come to light. The author handles this material very well and makes the unbearable easy to read. As in any good story, things are not what they seem and readers are treated to some unexpected outcomes, (Although, I kind of saw them coming anyway.) Most readers won't however, and they make the book well worth the effort. Paced for suspense, this book delivers.

[Sonya Dodd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me spell-bound.

From the opening the author draws the reader into the terrible nightmares of Caitlin as she struggles to come to terms with the horrific ordeal she has endured.

I found her protector, Nathan, an interesting character who held my interest in wanting to understand his real role in what happened to Caitlin and the reason for his obsession with her.

Their relationship is fragile yet his need to look after her is endearing. He is a very real character and I think that is a lot of his appeal. He wants to care for her but she also arouses natural urges in him which he fights to control.

There is a clever link between Caitlin's memories of the kidnaping and multiple rapes she suffered along with the aftermath of her recovery and subsequent threat of reprisal by her attackers.

All in all this is a great read which will keep you engaged until the very end.

[Cj Mackenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from Irresistible Reads Book Tours in exchange of an honest review.
I’m always up for reading a good mystery and Nightmares of Caitlin Lockyer definitely fits that description.
This is an intense story and the fact it is told from Nathan’s, who doesn’t give much away, point of view made it very interesting.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns and the story, especially because I wasn’t expecting most of them. I was constantly trying to guess who the guilty party was! Most things are not what they seem though and I was kept guessing.
The book is well-written and I liked the characters even though Nathan can be quite mysterious and closed off.
I think this book can be a great read for mystery fans.