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Best Served Cold
'I was lured into Best Served Cold from the first page. This twisted fairytale-themed psychological thriller starts off with a sinister moment and grows ever more dark and unsettling. Vividly-painted scenes and characters but above all terrific storytelling from Hilly Barmby.'
JENNIE ENSOR, AUTHOR OF THE BAD NEIGHBOUR
A mystery woman enters Lily's life
At the launch for her latest children's book, a member of the audience asks Lily for an strange inscription in her copy of the book. Why does this unnerve her?
Is Jack the answer to Lily's prayers?
Later, while celebrating in a local bar, Lily, and best friend Alice, spot the same woman. Her name is Rose. Putting aside earlier unease, a new friendship between the three is formed. Rose offers to help Lily re-enter the dating scene after a bad breakup and they come across Jack, Mr Perfect on Paper. Lily quickly falls for handsome Jack. Is he too good to be true?
The past is the past, or is it?
Soon after the pair start dating, bizarre things start to occur to Lily, things are moved or they go missing, and, what’s worse, her precious artwork is damaged. Who did this to her? Surely it can’t have been her new boyfriend, her new friend Rose, or even oldest friend Alice? They all have a motive. Perhaps Lily did this all herself. Who can she trust, in fact, can she trust herself? Or has a ghost from Lily's past come back to haunt her?
JENNIE ENSOR, AUTHOR OF THE BAD NEIGHBOUR
A mystery woman enters Lily's life
At the launch for her latest children's book, a member of the audience asks Lily for an strange inscription in her copy of the book. Why does this unnerve her?
Is Jack the answer to Lily's prayers?
Later, while celebrating in a local bar, Lily, and best friend Alice, spot the same woman. Her name is Rose. Putting aside earlier unease, a new friendship between the three is formed. Rose offers to help Lily re-enter the dating scene after a bad breakup and they come across Jack, Mr Perfect on Paper. Lily quickly falls for handsome Jack. Is he too good to be true?
The past is the past, or is it?
Soon after the pair start dating, bizarre things start to occur to Lily, things are moved or they go missing, and, what’s worse, her precious artwork is damaged. Who did this to her? Surely it can’t have been her new boyfriend, her new friend Rose, or even oldest friend Alice? They all have a motive. Perhaps Lily did this all herself. Who can she trust, in fact, can she trust herself? Or has a ghost from Lily's past come back to haunt her?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2023
24 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 15, 2024
I read this in one day, I couldn't put it down! It had everything and more I could ask for in a psychological thriller, it didn't spoil it for me that I had guessed one of the twists early on. Hilly Barmby has become of my new favourite authors, I'm looking forward to reading all her backlisted books, what a great book to complete my reading challenge.
November 9, 2023
When I picked up ‘Best served Cold’ to read, I didn’t expect to be unable to put it down. Instantly I was drawn into the story as we see Lily at her book signing and a suspiciously acting woman, who later befriends her and Lily’s friend Alice. Is she genuine? Or should Lily and Alice be guarded about how close they let her into their friendship circle? I enjoyed reading about Lily’s past and the intermittent chapters featuring her ex boyfriend Harry. Learning how the relationship spiralled so dramatically had me glued to the pages and made you realise something was definitely amiss with the sudden appearance of Rose.
I really liked how Hilly Barmby’s writing was so engaging, with just the right amount of intrigue to make it believable and to keep you continually guessing as to what Rose could possibly achieve from befriending Lily. The denouement was exciting and unexpected and all in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Hilly is a superb writer, I was pleasantly entertained over a full weekend as I was drawn deeper and deeper into the storyline and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ‘Best Served Cold’ to all readers of the psychological fiction genre.
#BestServedCold - ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really liked how Hilly Barmby’s writing was so engaging, with just the right amount of intrigue to make it believable and to keep you continually guessing as to what Rose could possibly achieve from befriending Lily. The denouement was exciting and unexpected and all in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Hilly is a superb writer, I was pleasantly entertained over a full weekend as I was drawn deeper and deeper into the storyline and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend ‘Best Served Cold’ to all readers of the psychological fiction genre.
#BestServedCold - ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 15, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
Best Served Cold by Hilly Barmby is a slower-paced psychological thriller. Probably too slow for me.
It started so well but then all the middle... It was so about everything and nothing! I completely lost interest so the plot twist didn't shock me. To be honest I was kind of sure it would be something like that as everything pointed to that.
The book is told in past and present, following Lilly and her best friend Alice's development.
Lily Maye is a successful book illustrator and she is ready for a new chapter. She has trust issues due to a previous relationship experience but she is ready to try again. With newfound friends, Rose help Lilly get on a dating app and things look promising when she meets Jack!
But then life gets complicated and strange things happen around...
Even though this wasn't my cup of tea, this could be your next 5-star read so I would recommend giving it a go :)
Best Served Cold by Hilly Barmby is a slower-paced psychological thriller. Probably too slow for me.
It started so well but then all the middle... It was so about everything and nothing! I completely lost interest so the plot twist didn't shock me. To be honest I was kind of sure it would be something like that as everything pointed to that.
The book is told in past and present, following Lilly and her best friend Alice's development.
Lily Maye is a successful book illustrator and she is ready for a new chapter. She has trust issues due to a previous relationship experience but she is ready to try again. With newfound friends, Rose help Lilly get on a dating app and things look promising when she meets Jack!
But then life gets complicated and strange things happen around...
Even though this wasn't my cup of tea, this could be your next 5-star read so I would recommend giving it a go :)
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November 13, 2023Hilly Barmby sure knows how to weave a psychological tale. In Best Served Cold, we follow the story of Lily, an author who writes retellings of fairy tales. We had a little glimpse into what Lily writes, and I'll tell you now I want to read Lily's books 😮
Anyway, I digress. At her latest book launch, a woman in the crowd comes across as very shifty. That dedication was just pure strange to begin with. Now, personally, I wouldn't have anything to do with her, but Lily welcomed her with open arms and started a friendship with the mysterious Rose Briar (fairytale connection there 😊), but can we trust Rose?
Interspersed in the present narrative of Lily's life are flashbacks to her backstory. We get to have a clearer undertaking of what has happened to her and show the bond that her and her friend Alice have.
As the two narratives start to converge, this is when I started to have my doubts over the characters in Lily's life. Especially when strange things started to happen to her.
The narrative is steeped in mystery and unease. It's one of those stories where you tend to feel apprehensive the deeper into the plot you get. Barmby draws you into Lily's life and slowly unfolds the mystery.
Best Served Cold is a revenge thriller with attitude.
Anyway, I digress. At her latest book launch, a woman in the crowd comes across as very shifty. That dedication was just pure strange to begin with. Now, personally, I wouldn't have anything to do with her, but Lily welcomed her with open arms and started a friendship with the mysterious Rose Briar (fairytale connection there 😊), but can we trust Rose?
Interspersed in the present narrative of Lily's life are flashbacks to her backstory. We get to have a clearer undertaking of what has happened to her and show the bond that her and her friend Alice have.
As the two narratives start to converge, this is when I started to have my doubts over the characters in Lily's life. Especially when strange things started to happen to her.
The narrative is steeped in mystery and unease. It's one of those stories where you tend to feel apprehensive the deeper into the plot you get. Barmby draws you into Lily's life and slowly unfolds the mystery.
Best Served Cold is a revenge thriller with attitude.
November 15, 2023
This is a story set over two timelines, in the lead up to Christmas, one following Lily, Alice and Harry as they navigate university and what follows. Lily and Harry end up in a relationship and the journey of that is gradually revealed as the book progresses although hints are given.
The other timeline follows Lily now, still best friends with Alice. She's a successful book illustrator and unlucky in love.
This is a tense gripping read. The characters are great and I really felt for Lily who had no luck throughout. I loved her relationship with Alice, but still loved that she had that closeness with her own sister.
There's a great insight into the different types of family, and the impact that can have as we grow into adults. I'd love to spend a Christmas at Harry's, and meet those aunts!
I'd guessed most of the outcome but still enjoyed finding out why, and a few surprises still thrown in.
The other timeline follows Lily now, still best friends with Alice. She's a successful book illustrator and unlucky in love.
This is a tense gripping read. The characters are great and I really felt for Lily who had no luck throughout. I loved her relationship with Alice, but still loved that she had that closeness with her own sister.
There's a great insight into the different types of family, and the impact that can have as we grow into adults. I'd love to spend a Christmas at Harry's, and meet those aunts!
I'd guessed most of the outcome but still enjoyed finding out why, and a few surprises still thrown in.
July 8, 2024
Hooked!
A familiar face at a book promotion starts the dramatic journey to a new friendship and a whirlwind relationship for Lily. Things happen fast but joy and happiness are short-lived as doubt, betrayal and terror soon take over.
A gripping and creative plot sets this book up from the start. Once the scene is set and characters initially introduced, the story gathers momentum and keeps the reader absorbed throughout. The continual flashbacks into Lily's past life and relationship play a pivatal role, bringing the imaginative plot together as it comes full circle. Well written, well defined characters and a gripping read. Thoroughly enjoyed!
A familiar face at a book promotion starts the dramatic journey to a new friendship and a whirlwind relationship for Lily. Things happen fast but joy and happiness are short-lived as doubt, betrayal and terror soon take over.
A gripping and creative plot sets this book up from the start. Once the scene is set and characters initially introduced, the story gathers momentum and keeps the reader absorbed throughout. The continual flashbacks into Lily's past life and relationship play a pivatal role, bringing the imaginative plot together as it comes full circle. Well written, well defined characters and a gripping read. Thoroughly enjoyed!
November 22, 2024
This one kept me hooked from the start. It’s rich in character development and has a masterful plot. I liked Lily and rooted for her and Jack, after her difficult previous relationship—but it all came together too easily. We knew there was trouble ahead. Rose got in there like a cutie-pie limpet and made me want to shout, ‘Stay back.’ The novel delivers a fascinating exploration of revenge. The story keeps the tension high but has moments of introspection and emotional depth. Lily’s life is all too familiar, as the characters grapple with the consequences of getting close to strangers. I liked Alice and the relationship between her and Lily, we should all have a friend like Alice.
The tightly plotted narrative is beautifully partnered with vividly drawn characters. The dialogue is authentic, and the pacing works well. The theme of vengeance ties everything together in time for Christmas and offers a satisfying read. This book is a must-read for fans of gritty thrillers that engage the heart.
It has a nostalgic Christmas theme but can be read at any time of the year—mulled wine and Quality Street optional.
The tightly plotted narrative is beautifully partnered with vividly drawn characters. The dialogue is authentic, and the pacing works well. The theme of vengeance ties everything together in time for Christmas and offers a satisfying read. This book is a must-read for fans of gritty thrillers that engage the heart.
It has a nostalgic Christmas theme but can be read at any time of the year—mulled wine and Quality Street optional.
November 17, 2023
If you enjoy a slower paced psychological thriller, as in one that starts off just telling a story & then blasts you with action at the end, then this is for you. A standalone read with a believable storyline & some excellently drawn characters.
Lily Maye is a successful book illustrator & lives in Brighton near her best friend, Alice. At her latest book launch, an avid fan (Rose), gives her a book for signing & dedication; Lily finds the dedication a bit odd but does as requested. Later, the two friends bump into Rose in a local bar & end up having a drink/food. They all get on really well, agreeing to meet up again. Lily needs a man in her life & through a dating app, Rose sets her up with Jack (with Lily’s approval) & so the story begins in earnest. Lily has trust issues due to a previous relationship & so is forever on alert. She is aware of something being a bit off but is unsure what.
I loved the backstory of Lily & her previous boyfriend, it seemed so normal & relatable. I had an inkling of where it was going but, even so, the climax did catch me out. Well paced & a great read.
Lily Maye is a successful book illustrator & lives in Brighton near her best friend, Alice. At her latest book launch, an avid fan (Rose), gives her a book for signing & dedication; Lily finds the dedication a bit odd but does as requested. Later, the two friends bump into Rose in a local bar & end up having a drink/food. They all get on really well, agreeing to meet up again. Lily needs a man in her life & through a dating app, Rose sets her up with Jack (with Lily’s approval) & so the story begins in earnest. Lily has trust issues due to a previous relationship & so is forever on alert. She is aware of something being a bit off but is unsure what.
I loved the backstory of Lily & her previous boyfriend, it seemed so normal & relatable. I had an inkling of where it was going but, even so, the climax did catch me out. Well paced & a great read.
November 15, 2023
I received an E-ARC with a request for my honest review.
This frightening psychological thriller follows Lily, an illustrator for children’s books. When at her latest book signing, a woman declares herself a big fan, but when she asks for an un-nerving dedication, she is alarmed.
However, soon the mysterious woman starts to become more a part of Lily’s friendship group and after she is set her up on a dating app it looks like there may be a new man in her life too.
When strange occurrences start in her home Lily is not sure who could be behind them, and even starts to think it may be herself sabotaging her life.
Who is this mysterious woman? Who is behind the strange occurrences?
This is the first book I have read from this author, but it won’t be the last as I was swept away with the mystery and frightening occurrences in Lily’s life.
The storyline is split between visions of her past and the present day, and it all comes together to build the tension and solve the mystery behind all that is happening.
The reason I say this book is frightening is that the storyline is believable and could take place.
Overall, a frightening psychological thriller, where an illustrator tries to unravel what is behind strange occurrences in her life.
This frightening psychological thriller follows Lily, an illustrator for children’s books. When at her latest book signing, a woman declares herself a big fan, but when she asks for an un-nerving dedication, she is alarmed.
However, soon the mysterious woman starts to become more a part of Lily’s friendship group and after she is set her up on a dating app it looks like there may be a new man in her life too.
When strange occurrences start in her home Lily is not sure who could be behind them, and even starts to think it may be herself sabotaging her life.
Who is this mysterious woman? Who is behind the strange occurrences?
This is the first book I have read from this author, but it won’t be the last as I was swept away with the mystery and frightening occurrences in Lily’s life.
The storyline is split between visions of her past and the present day, and it all comes together to build the tension and solve the mystery behind all that is happening.
The reason I say this book is frightening is that the storyline is believable and could take place.
Overall, a frightening psychological thriller, where an illustrator tries to unravel what is behind strange occurrences in her life.
November 16, 2023
What a wonderfully dark psychological thriller.
I enjoyed getting to know Lily, and following her work as a children’s book illustrator as I love drawing too.
This is Lily’s story. Told over two timelines of two disastrous Christmases. And two disastrous relationships.
When she leaves her cheating ex behind in Brighton and moves to London with her best friend, she finds it hard to trust anyone until she meets Jack on a dating app. He seems to be her perfect man and they soon develop a close relationship. But we know early on something is not quite right about Jack.
There is another dark character in the story too. Rose. She edges her way into Lily and Alice’s close friendship, but can they trust her?
The tension builds and builds then what an explosion towards the end of the book! An absolutely satisfactory conclusion.
I enjoyed getting to know Lily, and following her work as a children’s book illustrator as I love drawing too.
This is Lily’s story. Told over two timelines of two disastrous Christmases. And two disastrous relationships.
When she leaves her cheating ex behind in Brighton and moves to London with her best friend, she finds it hard to trust anyone until she meets Jack on a dating app. He seems to be her perfect man and they soon develop a close relationship. But we know early on something is not quite right about Jack.
There is another dark character in the story too. Rose. She edges her way into Lily and Alice’s close friendship, but can they trust her?
The tension builds and builds then what an explosion towards the end of the book! An absolutely satisfactory conclusion.
November 14, 2023
I had the honour of reading this book in the early stages.
I was so excited to hear it was out!
I’ve read it again in it’s full form & it’s excellent.
Creepy in a stalker works there way in to really screw things up way!
You won’t be able to put it down!
Now go enjoy the thrill
I was so excited to hear it was out!
I’ve read it again in it’s full form & it’s excellent.
Creepy in a stalker works there way in to really screw things up way!
You won’t be able to put it down!
Now go enjoy the thrill
December 31, 2024
BEST SERVED COLD is a gripping tale that hooks you from the start. The story features a children’s book illustrator who has an odd encounter with a super fan at her latest book launch party. The premise and characterization were enough to draw me in immediately, and the execution did not disappoint. I’d highly recommend for your next winter psychological thriller read!
November 15, 2023
Oh yes, a beautifully crafted psychological thriller. So descriptive of Brighton, I felt as if I was there. Hilly Barmby tells a chilling tale and I would highly recommend this. I will be seeking out her back catalogue.
November 22, 2023
Lily is an illustrator for children’s books. At a book launch, a lady asks for a strange inscription in her book, leaving Lily feeling rather bewildered.
When out later celebrating with her best friend, Alice, they bump into the same lady, called Rose. The three women get on well and strike up a friendship.
Being back on the dating scene, Rose helps Lily to find someone new, and we meet Jack, who Lily falls for quick and hard.
When strange things start to happen, Lily is confused and doesn’t know who is to blame out of Jack, Rose and Alice.
This is a great psychological thriller. The characters were believable and I didn’t like Rose from the very start!
I was cheering Lily on, hoping she would get to the bottom of things and soon. The ending certainly raised my heartbeat quite a bit!
When out later celebrating with her best friend, Alice, they bump into the same lady, called Rose. The three women get on well and strike up a friendship.
Being back on the dating scene, Rose helps Lily to find someone new, and we meet Jack, who Lily falls for quick and hard.
When strange things start to happen, Lily is confused and doesn’t know who is to blame out of Jack, Rose and Alice.
This is a great psychological thriller. The characters were believable and I didn’t like Rose from the very start!
I was cheering Lily on, hoping she would get to the bottom of things and soon. The ending certainly raised my heartbeat quite a bit!
December 1, 2023
A compelling read!
A compelling read that draws you in completely! I literally couldn't put this book down and read it in two sittings. I'd have read it in one had I not had to go to work.
The twist in the story took me completely by surprise, and left me reeling. But don't be put off, the book has a great ending. Highly recommended!
A compelling read that draws you in completely! I literally couldn't put this book down and read it in two sittings. I'd have read it in one had I not had to go to work.
The twist in the story took me completely by surprise, and left me reeling. But don't be put off, the book has a great ending. Highly recommended!
December 15, 2023
Lily a children’s book illustrator meets Rose a rather odd fan at her latest book launch. Even after that initial unnerving interaction they run into each other again at a local bar and seem to form a friendship of sorts along with Lily’s best friend Alice.
When looking at putting herself back out on the dating scene Rose insists on helping Lily find the perfect man. On paper Jack is Mr Perfect, he’s everything Lily is looking for and more. But is Jack too good to be true?
If you’re a lover of thriller reads this story will keep you guessing and just when you think you’ve got it all worked out the plot twists and leaves you reeling. Hilly has outdone herself with this story, it was a great read and the story kept on the edge of your seat.
When looking at putting herself back out on the dating scene Rose insists on helping Lily find the perfect man. On paper Jack is Mr Perfect, he’s everything Lily is looking for and more. But is Jack too good to be true?
If you’re a lover of thriller reads this story will keep you guessing and just when you think you’ve got it all worked out the plot twists and leaves you reeling. Hilly has outdone herself with this story, it was a great read and the story kept on the edge of your seat.
November 13, 2023
Lily Maye is a children’s book illustrator, a job she absolutely loves and is passionate about.
Recently she launched her eighth book at her local Brighton bookstore. Whilst there, she is approached by an enigmatic, yet unnerving young woman, who tells Lily she’s her number one fan (I got very creepy Stephen King’s Misery vibes there!!).
Later on the same day when Lily is celebrating the launch with her best friend Alice, she spots the same woman again.
The three women get talking and a new friendship blossoms.
Then, thanks to Rose, their new friend, Lily signs up for a dating app, where she meets Jack, who ticks all the right boxes.
Yet, something is troubling Lily. There is something familiar about Rose, and isn’t Jack just too perfect to be true?
Ooh, this is a deliciously dark psychological thriller that I’ve read in two sittings.
The plot is easy to follow and you can immediately relate to Lily and Alice.
I liked the dual timeline and I was fascinated to discover what happened in Lily’s past and how it impacted her future.
Overall, it’s a thoroughly pleasurable read with some beautiful and detailed descriptions of Brighton. Despite never setting foot there, I now feel like a know the city.
Recently she launched her eighth book at her local Brighton bookstore. Whilst there, she is approached by an enigmatic, yet unnerving young woman, who tells Lily she’s her number one fan (I got very creepy Stephen King’s Misery vibes there!!).
Later on the same day when Lily is celebrating the launch with her best friend Alice, she spots the same woman again.
The three women get talking and a new friendship blossoms.
Then, thanks to Rose, their new friend, Lily signs up for a dating app, where she meets Jack, who ticks all the right boxes.
Yet, something is troubling Lily. There is something familiar about Rose, and isn’t Jack just too perfect to be true?
Ooh, this is a deliciously dark psychological thriller that I’ve read in two sittings.
The plot is easy to follow and you can immediately relate to Lily and Alice.
I liked the dual timeline and I was fascinated to discover what happened in Lily’s past and how it impacted her future.
Overall, it’s a thoroughly pleasurable read with some beautiful and detailed descriptions of Brighton. Despite never setting foot there, I now feel like a know the city.
December 20, 2023
An addictive, chilling, and suspenseful psychological thriller. The author is a master at weaving a tale of mystery that slowly builds to give an excellent and shocking ending. I was completely gripping the pages following the subtle clues of lies and deception. The characters are well developed. It is brilliantly executed. I will definitely binge all the authors' books..
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January 2, 2025Satisfying and enjoyable read
The back and forth between time periods is not my thing, but it was still easy to follow. Hilly does a great job of bringing the timelines together. The back and forth made it a slow-paced read. While it didn't blow me away, I still read it in two days, as I found it to be a satisfying and enjoyable read.
The back and forth between time periods is not my thing, but it was still easy to follow. Hilly does a great job of bringing the timelines together. The back and forth made it a slow-paced read. While it didn't blow me away, I still read it in two days, as I found it to be a satisfying and enjoyable read.
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December 27, 2023As the title suggests, this is a story of long-planned revenge. Playing out against a backdrop friendships and relationships old and new, it is ideal for fans of domestic psychological thrillers. The setting of the English coastal city of Brighton reflects the book’s gorgeous cover.
December 14, 2024
Love this book. Interesting plot. Had me thinking throughout the book, but there are some good hints throughout. I really don't know what to say that would give spoilers. But was really good. This was my first time reading a book of theirs and now I am looking for more.
November 26, 2024
3.5/5 🌟
While this book offers a dark and suspenseful atmosphere, the plot unfolds in a somewhat predictable manner. The twists, though intriguing, lack the element of surprise that would elevate the story. I had most of the plot figured out by about 55%.
The characters are well-developed, but their motivations become somewhat transparent as the narrative progresses and that took some of the excitement and suspense out of it for me.
Overall, it's a decent read for fans of the genre, but may disappoint those seeking a truly original thriller.
While this book offers a dark and suspenseful atmosphere, the plot unfolds in a somewhat predictable manner. The twists, though intriguing, lack the element of surprise that would elevate the story. I had most of the plot figured out by about 55%.
The characters are well-developed, but their motivations become somewhat transparent as the narrative progresses and that took some of the excitement and suspense out of it for me.
Overall, it's a decent read for fans of the genre, but may disappoint those seeking a truly original thriller.
November 24, 2024
Lily is the protagonist to this slow burn, psychological, thriller, romance with some mystery added in. Told in alternating timelines that build the plot and characters. The flashbacks are of Lily and Harry's life together while she was in college, and the present timeline is her relationship with a new man, Jack. It is a character-based story. Even though the first 80% is the slow burn part, the last 20% has you on the edge of your seat.
October 17, 2024
This is an intriguing story with a great plot and it held my attention from beginning to end. Lily provides an unusual inscription in a copy of her book for a woman attending the launch. Later, Lily and her best friend, Alice, see the same woman in a local bar and the three strike up a friendship. Lily, let down by her previous partner, is nursing a broken heart and her friends are determined to help her get back into dating. In looking at an online dating site, they come across Jack, who appears perfect, and after a few dates, Lily falls for the handsome man. However, strange and unexplainable things start to happen and Lily begins to think she is losing the plot – or is there some other reason? I won’t say more for fear of ruining the story, but suffice it to say this was a compelling read with a great ending. Recommended.
November 18, 2024
Great story line.
Even though it's a back and forth between time periods it's still very easy to follow. Wasn't expecting the ending at all. All the characters played a part in the ending.
Even though it's a back and forth between time periods it's still very easy to follow. Wasn't expecting the ending at all. All the characters played a part in the ending.
January 6, 2024
Best Served Cold is another excellent psychological thriller by Hilly Barmby.
The reader is set up nicely with a slow build up that turns into a gripping page-turner as we learn more about Lily’s past when she meets the handsome Jack. But, as she gets to know the new man in her life, she finds herself comparing him to a past relationship.
Then a little thing here and there – maybe a look or a word uttered, or even and insignificant (at the time) happening makes both Lily and the reader wonder what’s going on. Is it Lily’s imagination? Is she going mad? Or is there something outside of her control affecting her? Read it and find out.
The reader is set up nicely with a slow build up that turns into a gripping page-turner as we learn more about Lily’s past when she meets the handsome Jack. But, as she gets to know the new man in her life, she finds herself comparing him to a past relationship.
Then a little thing here and there – maybe a look or a word uttered, or even and insignificant (at the time) happening makes both Lily and the reader wonder what’s going on. Is it Lily’s imagination? Is she going mad? Or is there something outside of her control affecting her? Read it and find out.
November 16, 2024
This book was so good I couldn't put it down and stayed up all night to read it.
November 28, 2023
The title gives an indication of the motive behind the plot and it isn’t how to serve the perfect pint of lager or gelato. Everyone knows the idiom revenge is a dish “best served cold” (from Les Liasons Dangereuses by Pierre Ambroise Francois Choderios de La Clos) and this is what the title refers to. The payback from revenge is most satisfying when it is carefully planned and the timing deferred to the appropriate moment. The desire for revenge can also be self-destructive, like a poison eating away at the core of ones being. It can also come at great cost, as Confucius said “if you seek revenge, dig two graves.” So just how will this most basic of human desires manifest in this thoughtful novel?
A curious start to a novel as Lily, an illustrator, celebrates the publication of her latest work with a brief paddle on Brighton beach, in November. It’s a tradition of hers and as the reader will see rituals, traditions and habits form a central thread which highlights some of the incidents throughout. The very things we create to make us feel comfortable, appear to work against us when they are disrupted and that ultimately come to play on Lily’s mind.
Lily’s book launch passes its first test, people turn up, so the nightmare of the empty room is avoided. The second nightmare is the fixated fan, the obsessive and here Lily has a problem in the form of Rose, who says she attends all her events and asks for a strange inscription in her book. Is she a dangerous stalker, or is she someone who is lost and lonely? Later in the evening when Lily and best friend Alice meet her in the pub they think the former; Rose even makes a reference to Annie Wilkes in Stephen King’s Misery, which is a nice knowing touch. As the night progresses though they become to warm to her and decide to offer her friendship.
Lily has never really got over her student days boyfriend Harry. Rose persuades her to try a dating app and, with the help of Alice, discovers Jack, who they consider excellent boyfriend material. They agree to meet up and a relationship quickly develops. Is Jack the answer to Lily’s prayers? Just as things are blossoming with Jack, strange things start to happen at home, filling her with self-doubt. Is she doing things subconsciously, is her mind paying tricks on her, or is it ghosts of her past resurfacing. Is the past really the past and dead to her.
This is a character-based story and great efforts have been made to create fully formed, interesting and engaging characters along two timelines, the current and a past centring on Lily and Alice’s student days. The whole central portion of the novel is given way to the development of Lily’s relationships with Harry, in the past and Jack in the present. We see Harry was her perfect partner but how he managed to betray her, that his ex, Jo, still had a hold over him and how their love withers on the vine. Jack appears to the man to finally repair her heart and we can feel her relief and joy recovering from a cathartic past. Keeping the cast small allows meatier roles for Rose and in particular Alice (my favourite) who is the caring but slightly mad bestie we would all want. The complexity of inter-relationships is allowed to flourish and the story is more convincing for it.
On top of these love stories is laid a web of psychologically damaging lies and deceits to build a suspenseful story. To me it’s a Hitchcock-lite story, not one of visceral shocks but rather one where the central character thinks their mind is playing tricks, developing paranoia and tension. So often seen on film as the silly, hysterical woman, but it goes beyond coincidence and then happenstance to where they realise that something is going on, when usually it is too late. The author has done a brilliant job on this slow build-up and gradual deterioration of mind set towards the finale which will result in bated breath for the reader. To all-out action fans, it may feel a little pedestrian, but it does get quite frantic when it needs to. As the title implies revenge will be sweeter for the waiting.
The story is not devoid of action and jeopardy, as it is bookended by it. Early on there is a #MeToo incident which arrives with a bit of a shock like a slap to the face. The ending is quite fitting to the long build up where the readers patience is rewarded with a satisfying conclusion.
Best Served Cold is a beautifully crafted suspense story of poisonous revenge.
A curious start to a novel as Lily, an illustrator, celebrates the publication of her latest work with a brief paddle on Brighton beach, in November. It’s a tradition of hers and as the reader will see rituals, traditions and habits form a central thread which highlights some of the incidents throughout. The very things we create to make us feel comfortable, appear to work against us when they are disrupted and that ultimately come to play on Lily’s mind.
Lily’s book launch passes its first test, people turn up, so the nightmare of the empty room is avoided. The second nightmare is the fixated fan, the obsessive and here Lily has a problem in the form of Rose, who says she attends all her events and asks for a strange inscription in her book. Is she a dangerous stalker, or is she someone who is lost and lonely? Later in the evening when Lily and best friend Alice meet her in the pub they think the former; Rose even makes a reference to Annie Wilkes in Stephen King’s Misery, which is a nice knowing touch. As the night progresses though they become to warm to her and decide to offer her friendship.
Lily has never really got over her student days boyfriend Harry. Rose persuades her to try a dating app and, with the help of Alice, discovers Jack, who they consider excellent boyfriend material. They agree to meet up and a relationship quickly develops. Is Jack the answer to Lily’s prayers? Just as things are blossoming with Jack, strange things start to happen at home, filling her with self-doubt. Is she doing things subconsciously, is her mind paying tricks on her, or is it ghosts of her past resurfacing. Is the past really the past and dead to her.
This is a character-based story and great efforts have been made to create fully formed, interesting and engaging characters along two timelines, the current and a past centring on Lily and Alice’s student days. The whole central portion of the novel is given way to the development of Lily’s relationships with Harry, in the past and Jack in the present. We see Harry was her perfect partner but how he managed to betray her, that his ex, Jo, still had a hold over him and how their love withers on the vine. Jack appears to the man to finally repair her heart and we can feel her relief and joy recovering from a cathartic past. Keeping the cast small allows meatier roles for Rose and in particular Alice (my favourite) who is the caring but slightly mad bestie we would all want. The complexity of inter-relationships is allowed to flourish and the story is more convincing for it.
On top of these love stories is laid a web of psychologically damaging lies and deceits to build a suspenseful story. To me it’s a Hitchcock-lite story, not one of visceral shocks but rather one where the central character thinks their mind is playing tricks, developing paranoia and tension. So often seen on film as the silly, hysterical woman, but it goes beyond coincidence and then happenstance to where they realise that something is going on, when usually it is too late. The author has done a brilliant job on this slow build-up and gradual deterioration of mind set towards the finale which will result in bated breath for the reader. To all-out action fans, it may feel a little pedestrian, but it does get quite frantic when it needs to. As the title implies revenge will be sweeter for the waiting.
The story is not devoid of action and jeopardy, as it is bookended by it. Early on there is a #MeToo incident which arrives with a bit of a shock like a slap to the face. The ending is quite fitting to the long build up where the readers patience is rewarded with a satisfying conclusion.
Best Served Cold is a beautifully crafted suspense story of poisonous revenge.
November 20, 2023
Here is my review for Best Served Cold by Hilly Barmby
I got into this psychological thriller really quickly and I have enjoyed it from the start. It seems like a fairly quick read and the writing style is very easy to read. The plot is great and one I haven’t come across before. Lily, a design illustrator for children’s books is beginning to make a name for herself and at a recent book signing, she saw a woman she vaguely recognised and the woman said she was her number one fan. Later, when they were out in a bar, the same woman was there again but this time, Lily invited her to join her and Alice while she finished her drink. They soon became friends that evening but Lily was sure there was something about her, she just couldn’t think what. She then met Jack and things were going well, she tried not to think of Harry and how that ended. Then things started going wrong, like the wine glass stain on one of her pictures. Then when she went to see Mary and left the pictures in the freezer so they got ruined and she had nothing to show Mary when she got there for a publishing deadline, Mary was not amused. Was it Lily or someone out to sabotage her and bring her down? This was a superb psychological thriller which I really enjoyed reading and can recommend as it had me sitting on the edge of my seat reading towards the end.
Blurb :
A mystery woman enters Lily's life
At the launch for her latest children's book, a member of the audience asks Lily for a strange inscription in her copy of the book. Why does this unnerve her?
Is Jack the answer to Lily's prayers?
Later, while celebrating in a local bar, Lily, and best friend Alice, spot the same woman. Her name is Rose. Putting aside earlier unease, a new friendship between the three is formed. Rose offers to help Lily re-enter the dating scene after a bad breakup and they come across Jack, Mr Perfect on Paper. Lily quickly falls for handsome Jack. Is he too good to be true?
The past is the past, or is it?
Soon after the pair start dating, bizarre things start to occur to Lily, things are moved or they go missing, and, what’s worse, her precious artwork is damaged. Who did this to her? Surely it can’t have been her new boyfriend, her new friend Rose, or even oldest friend Alice? They all have a motive. Perhaps Lily did this all herself. Who can she trust, in fact, can she trust herself? Or has a ghost from Lily's past come back to haunt her?
I got into this psychological thriller really quickly and I have enjoyed it from the start. It seems like a fairly quick read and the writing style is very easy to read. The plot is great and one I haven’t come across before. Lily, a design illustrator for children’s books is beginning to make a name for herself and at a recent book signing, she saw a woman she vaguely recognised and the woman said she was her number one fan. Later, when they were out in a bar, the same woman was there again but this time, Lily invited her to join her and Alice while she finished her drink. They soon became friends that evening but Lily was sure there was something about her, she just couldn’t think what. She then met Jack and things were going well, she tried not to think of Harry and how that ended. Then things started going wrong, like the wine glass stain on one of her pictures. Then when she went to see Mary and left the pictures in the freezer so they got ruined and she had nothing to show Mary when she got there for a publishing deadline, Mary was not amused. Was it Lily or someone out to sabotage her and bring her down? This was a superb psychological thriller which I really enjoyed reading and can recommend as it had me sitting on the edge of my seat reading towards the end.
Blurb :
A mystery woman enters Lily's life
At the launch for her latest children's book, a member of the audience asks Lily for a strange inscription in her copy of the book. Why does this unnerve her?
Is Jack the answer to Lily's prayers?
Later, while celebrating in a local bar, Lily, and best friend Alice, spot the same woman. Her name is Rose. Putting aside earlier unease, a new friendship between the three is formed. Rose offers to help Lily re-enter the dating scene after a bad breakup and they come across Jack, Mr Perfect on Paper. Lily quickly falls for handsome Jack. Is he too good to be true?
The past is the past, or is it?
Soon after the pair start dating, bizarre things start to occur to Lily, things are moved or they go missing, and, what’s worse, her precious artwork is damaged. Who did this to her? Surely it can’t have been her new boyfriend, her new friend Rose, or even oldest friend Alice? They all have a motive. Perhaps Lily did this all herself. Who can she trust, in fact, can she trust herself? Or has a ghost from Lily's past come back to haunt her?
February 8, 2024
At the launch of her latest book, Lily a book illustrator, notices someone she vaguely recognises but can’t recall why. As the woman buys her book she explains she’s a long time fan of Lily’s books. Later that evening Lily and her best friend Alice bump into this woman, Rose, again and from that a friendship between the three women begins. Stray comments from Rose and events start to trigger dormant memories in Lily’s consciousness and as the story gradually unfolds between past and present we see how Lily has become the person she is today. Rose and Alice persuade Lily to try a new dating app and they help to choose someone for her from the responses. The choice is Jack who matches many of Lily’s interests and dreams, they eventually meet and a relationship develops. Then strange things start to happen to Lily – odd noises in the night, things out of place, Alice becoming withdrawn – and she starts to wonder if she is losing her mind.
Fascinating well written story, the tension builds up as past and present entwine to produce a shocking ending!
Thanks to Hobeck Books for a review copy.
Fascinating well written story, the tension builds up as past and present entwine to produce a shocking ending!
Thanks to Hobeck Books for a review copy.
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