What do you think?
Rate this book
Her Mother's Daughter
Amanda writes dark fiction. Now one fan is bringing her work to life.Amanda is enjoying her life – she’s a successful author who has finally managed to give up her day job.But then an ex-colleague is murdered in an exact reenactment of a killing from one of Amanda’s books. Even worse, Amanda had publicly quarreled with the dead woman and now finds herself a person of interest to the police.Then it happens a second time. Another person with whom Amanda had publicly fought is murdered. And again, the method used to kill is lifted straight from the pages of one of her books.It’s clear that someone is out to get Amanda. But who? And why?With the police seeing her as the prime suspect, Amanda is desperate to discover the person behind these grisly killings.As she digs for the truth, Amanda is forced to look into her own family’s troubled past, where she uncovers a web of secrets and lies far more shocking than anything she has ever written…Her Mother’s Daughter – the chilling psychological thriller from the best-selling author of The New Husband and The Only Son.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2023
211 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 23, 2023
Why is a thriller author on the rise living a life of FOFO? Especially when hiding ‘that’ part of herself from others is taking such a toll. Does she fear the ‘like mother, like daughter’ tendency that might be hiding in the dark recesses of her heart?
With so much to celebrate, the shock of ‘the leak’ is something Amanda had anticipated, but had not made room for dealing with just as she was taking back control of her own life. Compounding her feelings of unease is the discovery that a recent murder has mimicked a death from her novel. Like a train ride that won’t stop at a station to let passengers disembark, Amanda’s life whirls into top speed as another body has been found … yes, another copycat murder. In an effort to clear her name, Amanda has to do the one thing ‘the thriller writer’ is afraid of … looking into her past.
What a tension-filled and entertainment-packed journey! A new-to-me author, O’Rourke has certainly examined the darker side of fiction. I enjoyed suspending my disbelief for the sake of entertainment and appreciated the quick read that was the perfect antidote to my stress last night.
Great cover!
I was gifted this copy by Inkubator Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
*Fear Of Finding Out
With so much to celebrate, the shock of ‘the leak’ is something Amanda had anticipated, but had not made room for dealing with just as she was taking back control of her own life. Compounding her feelings of unease is the discovery that a recent murder has mimicked a death from her novel. Like a train ride that won’t stop at a station to let passengers disembark, Amanda’s life whirls into top speed as another body has been found … yes, another copycat murder. In an effort to clear her name, Amanda has to do the one thing ‘the thriller writer’ is afraid of … looking into her past.
What a tension-filled and entertainment-packed journey! A new-to-me author, O’Rourke has certainly examined the darker side of fiction. I enjoyed suspending my disbelief for the sake of entertainment and appreciated the quick read that was the perfect antidote to my stress last night.
Great cover!
I was gifted this copy by Inkubator Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
*Fear Of Finding Out
November 30, 2023
Amanda is a murder mystery writer. She is also the daughter of a suspected murderer who’s never been caught. Her notorious mother was suspected of killing her married lover and the case has never been solved.
Amanda’s life takes a sinister turn when a muder is comitted as a copycat from a murder scene in one of her books. A woman is decapitated with a book crammed into her mouth. Pretty wicked right? Yes!
This book had a long list of suspects and I kept changing my mind on who the culprit was. O’Rourke does a fantastic job throwing you off the path. However, I did have my suspicions and guessed early on, it was still an enjoyable read. I normally don’t go for ‘popcorn thrillers’ but this one was done well in my opinion.
Suspenseful, hard to put down, easy read, murder, murder and more murder!
I’d like to thank Inkubator Books, NetGalley, and Brian R. O’Rourke for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Publication date December 6, 2023
Amanda’s life takes a sinister turn when a muder is comitted as a copycat from a murder scene in one of her books. A woman is decapitated with a book crammed into her mouth. Pretty wicked right? Yes!
This book had a long list of suspects and I kept changing my mind on who the culprit was. O’Rourke does a fantastic job throwing you off the path. However, I did have my suspicions and guessed early on, it was still an enjoyable read. I normally don’t go for ‘popcorn thrillers’ but this one was done well in my opinion.
Suspenseful, hard to put down, easy read, murder, murder and more murder!
I’d like to thank Inkubator Books, NetGalley, and Brian R. O’Rourke for an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Publication date December 6, 2023
November 29, 2023
The shock that Amanda goes through being suspected of murder and the mysterious discovery of her family's past make this book a place on the podium.
December 4, 2023
So far, I’m the only reviewer to give this book two stars. The two stars are for the fact that the book is very easy to read – you need hardly use your brain because there’s nothing new in this story.
Amanda lives under a new name because her mother is on the run. She’s accused of having murdered a man and once word gets out that Amanda is who she is, her life becomes a rollercoaster. Not bad actually because Amanda earns good money with her crime books.
And there it went wrong for me. Amanda has never seen the inside of a police station, never talked to anyone from the police. All good crime books I read have an afterword by the author thanking people (from the police at least) to help them getting their facts right. So not Amanda. When she herself is being interviewed, she acts like she’s never written a scene in which someone is being interviewed. There are surprises constantly popping up in strange places in the story – surprises that are not unusual in a story like this, but they all come at the wrong time. Too early, too late and often just out of the blue. There is a really terrific person in the story who turns out to be not so terrific at all. There is someone in the background who is mentioned only twice or so, whose’ role is suddenly much bigger. In short: I want to feel related to a character, but sometimes I wanted to try and talk some sense in Amanda. Besides that the has a couple of personal traits that I found somewhat – well, I will not say disgusting, but you know what I mean.
In short: nice idea, nice writing, but I would love to read other books by this author with better characterization, a more original plot and not so many silly actions by so many people.
Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books for this review copy.
Amanda lives under a new name because her mother is on the run. She’s accused of having murdered a man and once word gets out that Amanda is who she is, her life becomes a rollercoaster. Not bad actually because Amanda earns good money with her crime books.
And there it went wrong for me. Amanda has never seen the inside of a police station, never talked to anyone from the police. All good crime books I read have an afterword by the author thanking people (from the police at least) to help them getting their facts right. So not Amanda. When she herself is being interviewed, she acts like she’s never written a scene in which someone is being interviewed. There are surprises constantly popping up in strange places in the story – surprises that are not unusual in a story like this, but they all come at the wrong time. Too early, too late and often just out of the blue. There is a really terrific person in the story who turns out to be not so terrific at all. There is someone in the background who is mentioned only twice or so, whose’ role is suddenly much bigger. In short: I want to feel related to a character, but sometimes I wanted to try and talk some sense in Amanda. Besides that the has a couple of personal traits that I found somewhat – well, I will not say disgusting, but you know what I mean.
In short: nice idea, nice writing, but I would love to read other books by this author with better characterization, a more original plot and not so many silly actions by so many people.
Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books for this review copy.
January 5, 2024
I gave this one a three star because it did hold my attention and I liked the main character, Amanda, but I was able to figure out things fairly quickly. It was just an average read for me.
November 29, 2023
Her Mother’s Daughter by Brian R. O’Rourke is a gripping novel that skillfully combines heartbreak, tragedy, love, and homicide to take readers on an emotional rollercoaster.
The story follows a cast of relatable characters, each dealing with their challenges and secrets, while sudden twists and turns keep readers hooked until the end.
With evocative prose and a well-balanced pace, O’Rourke infuses the book with authenticity and raw emotion, making it a captivating read from start to finish.
Thank you to Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours and Inkubator Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
The story follows a cast of relatable characters, each dealing with their challenges and secrets, while sudden twists and turns keep readers hooked until the end.
With evocative prose and a well-balanced pace, O’Rourke infuses the book with authenticity and raw emotion, making it a captivating read from start to finish.
Thank you to Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours and Inkubator Books for allowing me to read and review this book.
December 15, 2023
I didn’t really get why the police immediately suspected Amanda as the killer of the first victim. Maybe it’s because she has a family history of murder (her mother was suspected of killing her married lover and has been on the run ever since), or that the crime is exactly like the one carried out in her first book – Amanda is a successful crime writer. Personally, I would be more inclined to think someone with a grudge against her (or just a total psychopath) is using her books to recreate copycat crimes. But the police know that Amanda has quarreled and fallen out publicly with the first victim. When a second body is found, it’s also someone Amanda has fallen out with. Bit of bad luck, that.
Poor Amanda, as if being stalked by her crazy ex Matthew isn’t enough, without being accused of murder. Then there’s the woman at the writer’s group where she sits on the panel. She’s a bit unhinged as well. She wants Amanda to read her three novels (or mostly wip) and tell her how wonderful she is. The next big thing. They all want that, these ‘aspiring novelists’.
Then Amanda mets Brandon at the same meeting. He’s rather cute, a bit younger than her, and a gentleman in an old-fashioned kind of way – paying for everything, holding doors, taking her coat letting her go first etc. He’s almost too good to be true and we all know what they say about that. Except he really is, isn’t he?
Amanda is a bit of an unreliable narrator and I love that. She tells us how easy-going she is, but I found her quite confrontational. Who pulls a gun at a writer’s meeting because she feels threatened by one of the members? Who carries a gun to a writer’s meeting anyway? But then it’s America, so maybe everyone does. I also like the way the author has found her ‘voice’. It sounds very authentic.
I read this book in two sittings. I would have finished it in one if it hadn’t been 1 o’clock in the morning. It’s fast-paced and there’s a lot of background that is very important. But it’s not one of those stories where you need a spreadsheet to keep up. It’s quite simple, you just probably won’t guess the truth, though there are tiny clues along the way.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
Poor Amanda, as if being stalked by her crazy ex Matthew isn’t enough, without being accused of murder. Then there’s the woman at the writer’s group where she sits on the panel. She’s a bit unhinged as well. She wants Amanda to read her three novels (or mostly wip) and tell her how wonderful she is. The next big thing. They all want that, these ‘aspiring novelists’.
Then Amanda mets Brandon at the same meeting. He’s rather cute, a bit younger than her, and a gentleman in an old-fashioned kind of way – paying for everything, holding doors, taking her coat letting her go first etc. He’s almost too good to be true and we all know what they say about that. Except he really is, isn’t he?
Amanda is a bit of an unreliable narrator and I love that. She tells us how easy-going she is, but I found her quite confrontational. Who pulls a gun at a writer’s meeting because she feels threatened by one of the members? Who carries a gun to a writer’s meeting anyway? But then it’s America, so maybe everyone does. I also like the way the author has found her ‘voice’. It sounds very authentic.
I read this book in two sittings. I would have finished it in one if it hadn’t been 1 o’clock in the morning. It’s fast-paced and there’s a lot of background that is very important. But it’s not one of those stories where you need a spreadsheet to keep up. It’s quite simple, you just probably won’t guess the truth, though there are tiny clues along the way.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
December 7, 2023
This story had an interesting start that draws you in and keeps you engaged throughout. The main character’s relationships with others, including her family, friends, work colleagues and boyfriends are believable and gripping to read about. I was keen to find out what would happen next in the story, who was deceiving and not who they appeared to be and solve the various mysteries, including murders. There was a slightly disjointed section in one chapter where the main character texts someone and then this is repeated, which made me read back in case I was mistaken or had missed something, but overall, I felt the story was well-written with various incidents throughout, keeping me entertained.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2023
Noone is without a skeleton in their family clislwt. For amanda the big reveal of her identity as the daughter of a suspected killer who has never been caught caused her writing career to hit the big time . Trouble is people believe the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and that she is her mothers daughter.
So begins a series of murders connected to amanda with a new too good to be true romance. This is told purely from Amanda's pov and briefly dips into the past. There are side characters throw in to deepen our understanding and feeling for Amanda. I found myself not teusting Brandon early on and fully invested in the story. I fid guerse half way through most of the final reveal. The final act was brilliant. It took a while to get going for me but delivered a giod conclusion. I found the policeman too simplistic. This is a cracking 4.5 star read for me. Recommended to anyone who loves a good mystery and is happy with a pov telling.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author.
So begins a series of murders connected to amanda with a new too good to be true romance. This is told purely from Amanda's pov and briefly dips into the past. There are side characters throw in to deepen our understanding and feeling for Amanda. I found myself not teusting Brandon early on and fully invested in the story. I fid guerse half way through most of the final reveal. The final act was brilliant. It took a while to get going for me but delivered a giod conclusion. I found the policeman too simplistic. This is a cracking 4.5 star read for me. Recommended to anyone who loves a good mystery and is happy with a pov telling.
Thank you netgallery and publisher and author.
December 7, 2023
Amanda Christie is an author who doesn’t want to be popular and although she is a New York best seller it’s a title you can claim while still being pretty anonymous and she enjoys that. She spends her time doing yoga writing and going to a writer‘s meeting at a local coffee shop. It’s at one of these meetings that she runs into a “fan” and her fantasy meeting didn’t go the way she intended so now at every turn the fan who’s name is Sarah wants to tell everyone about Amanda and there’s lots to tell. Amanda‘s mother has been on the run for almost 20 years and she’s wanted for murder. To make matters worse someone who disliked Amanda an old coworker of hers has been found dead in the same way her first victim in her first published book was killed. Sarah even tries to interrupt her first coffee date with Brandon a guy she really likes who she met at one of the writers meetings but who also works at the coffee shop. He is turning out to be too good to be true and seems to have her back no matter what. This isn’t her only problem however she has an ex who is stalking her she keeps receiving strange notes and the police have questioned her about the recent murder. Unfortunately just like her mother Amanda will also have to go on the run. Will she have to remain running the same way her mom did or will she be caught and put in prison or can she solve her crime? This was a really good book it was way better than I thought it was going to be I have never read a book by Brian R O’Rourke but I am going to look at his books as soon as I post this review. I thought this was a great book with no eye rolling moments although they did have a couple of iffy emotional reactions I was dubious about it was nowhere near enough to ruin the story I really enjoyed this book. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
January 29, 2024
Wow was I surprised by this book!
This book had me reeled in right from the get go…After people in her life show up dead, their deaths mimicking her character’s deaths from her popular books, Amanda becomes the number one suspect. While fighting to solve who is behind these murders and to clear her name, her past comes back and she must decide who she can trust. Tie in also that her mother is a convict on the run and everyone associates Amanda with her mother in the public eye.
I thought this was gripping and so well played out for a thriller. I truly loved the characters and the ending I did not see coming.
This book had me reeled in right from the get go…After people in her life show up dead, their deaths mimicking her character’s deaths from her popular books, Amanda becomes the number one suspect. While fighting to solve who is behind these murders and to clear her name, her past comes back and she must decide who she can trust. Tie in also that her mother is a convict on the run and everyone associates Amanda with her mother in the public eye.
I thought this was gripping and so well played out for a thriller. I truly loved the characters and the ending I did not see coming.
November 28, 2023
3.75/5 stars.
This is a nice psychological thriller well worth a reading. Now, you might ask: Why 3.75 stars then?
That's because I was not a particular fan of our main character, Amanda. That's totally on me, since I understand that her actions and reaction to certain circumstances are a result of nerves, anxiety and because she's a human being. This is me just being an extreme picky reader.
That aside, I enjoyed a lot reading this book. It took me less time than expected, considering how little I've been reading lately and, also, that I've been jumping from one book to another.
Now, onto the review:
What I loved:
1) One of the characters dedication, I won't mention who that character is because I don't want to do any spoilers. That character has my respect for being so caring and have such a strong will.
2) How easy it was to read (recommended for beginners learning English).
What I liked: The general sense of foreboding and that I couldn't stop myself from trying to guess who was the murderer and their reasons behind their actions. That's what I like of a psychological thriller: Being thrown into the story, not just read because it's interesting but because I'm actually engrossed and I'm not just seeing words, but I'm going along with the characters.
What I disliked: How dumb and naïve some characters seemed to be to me. It just wasn't my cup of tea but I already explained my reasons above.
Please, give it a chance and, when you do, let me know what you think about it.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a nice psychological thriller well worth a reading. Now, you might ask: Why 3.75 stars then?
That's because I was not a particular fan of our main character, Amanda. That's totally on me, since I understand that her actions and reaction to certain circumstances are a result of nerves, anxiety and because she's a human being. This is me just being an extreme picky reader.
That aside, I enjoyed a lot reading this book. It took me less time than expected, considering how little I've been reading lately and, also, that I've been jumping from one book to another.
Now, onto the review:
What I loved:
1) One of the characters dedication, I won't mention who that character is because I don't want to do any spoilers. That character has my respect for being so caring and have such a strong will.
2) How easy it was to read (recommended for beginners learning English).
What I liked: The general sense of foreboding and that I couldn't stop myself from trying to guess who was the murderer and their reasons behind their actions. That's what I like of a psychological thriller: Being thrown into the story, not just read because it's interesting but because I'm actually engrossed and I'm not just seeing words, but I'm going along with the characters.
What I disliked: How dumb and naïve some characters seemed to be to me. It just wasn't my cup of tea but I already explained my reasons above.
Please, give it a chance and, when you do, let me know what you think about it.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2023
Amanda has some exceptional baggage: a fugitive mom suspected of killing an on and off again boyfriend
her efforts to become a successful writer of mysteries and suspense are met with mediocre success- until someone reveals her identity as the daughter of a suspected killer
when her life develops twists that put her in the target zone for the police as a prime suspect for murder, life is creepier than fiction
dark and deadly twists galore, this psychological thriller always seems to have another surprise just around the corner
drama filled intrigue with ill fated romances, great mystery and suspense packed reading
her efforts to become a successful writer of mysteries and suspense are met with mediocre success- until someone reveals her identity as the daughter of a suspected killer
when her life develops twists that put her in the target zone for the police as a prime suspect for murder, life is creepier than fiction
dark and deadly twists galore, this psychological thriller always seems to have another surprise just around the corner
drama filled intrigue with ill fated romances, great mystery and suspense packed reading
December 31, 2023
What a delicious twisty thriller? I can’t imagine being a daughter of a serial killer. then on top of that, being stalked by a ex. No thank you. This author is beginning to be a favourite of mine, his writing style is so addictive. It’s really easy to read, his storytelling is brilliant.
This book is amazing, it’s gripping, dark and enough twists to make you go crazy.
This book is amazing, it’s gripping, dark and enough twists to make you go crazy.
December 8, 2023
First, I want to thank Brian R. O’Rourke, Inkubator Books, NetGalley and Zooloo Book Tours for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
WOW!! Brian R. O’Rourke is one author you need to keep your eye out for if you love psychological thrillers as much as I do. Each book he has written he has proven what an incredible storyteller he is. I thought The Only Son was good but wow his latest Her Mother’s Daughter proved to us that this is the genre he is meant to write.
Instantly, Brian’s book cover caught my eye! It is so different from any of the one’s his graphic artists have done before. The colors and the subject were just spot on! It made me want to know more about the storyline.
I could not stop giggling as I know Amanda Allen in real life! However, she is not a well known thriller author!
In many ways I think this book may be relatable to some with the clingy ex that just not take the hint that it is over! I have been down that road and can emphasize with all that Amanda had to go through with that. Matthew totally got on my nerves after a while.
We’re lead behind the scenes into the life of a thriller writer! Not just any thriller writer but one that is tied to something her Mom did in her past. It is so twisted, addicting, shocking, wicked twists and turns and a jaw dropping ending.
I love how it is written in modern day but then jumps to the past. In the past we learn more about the mother and how her actions affected her daughter!
This is another one to add to your TBR pile as it is a 5 star must read!
WOW!! Brian R. O’Rourke is one author you need to keep your eye out for if you love psychological thrillers as much as I do. Each book he has written he has proven what an incredible storyteller he is. I thought The Only Son was good but wow his latest Her Mother’s Daughter proved to us that this is the genre he is meant to write.
Instantly, Brian’s book cover caught my eye! It is so different from any of the one’s his graphic artists have done before. The colors and the subject were just spot on! It made me want to know more about the storyline.
I could not stop giggling as I know Amanda Allen in real life! However, she is not a well known thriller author!
In many ways I think this book may be relatable to some with the clingy ex that just not take the hint that it is over! I have been down that road and can emphasize with all that Amanda had to go through with that. Matthew totally got on my nerves after a while.
We’re lead behind the scenes into the life of a thriller writer! Not just any thriller writer but one that is tied to something her Mom did in her past. It is so twisted, addicting, shocking, wicked twists and turns and a jaw dropping ending.
I love how it is written in modern day but then jumps to the past. In the past we learn more about the mother and how her actions affected her daughter!
This is another one to add to your TBR pile as it is a 5 star must read!
December 13, 2023
The book has so many twists and turns. It will keep you guessing till the end and it’s a real page turner. The ending was so shocking but it unveiled all the layers the author has built through out the plot. I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a twisted thriller.
Amanda Christie writes dark fiction and she is a best selling author. Despite being successful as an author, she has her own problems. Matthew is her ex-boyfriend and their relationship ended abruptly. Then so many unexpected and shocking things happens like her meeting with Sarah, book event, and meeting with Brandon. People were getting killed. Though Brandon and Matthew both were harbouring secrets of their own. The author has created such a poignant back story of Amanda’s mother. The book has secrets and it is filled with endless twists and turns. The suspense stays till the end and the ending was heart-throbbing. It’s just a mind-blowing book. I can’t wait to read more of the author’s works.
Thanks to the author, publisher and book tour organiser.
Amanda Christie writes dark fiction and she is a best selling author. Despite being successful as an author, she has her own problems. Matthew is her ex-boyfriend and their relationship ended abruptly. Then so many unexpected and shocking things happens like her meeting with Sarah, book event, and meeting with Brandon. People were getting killed. Though Brandon and Matthew both were harbouring secrets of their own. The author has created such a poignant back story of Amanda’s mother. The book has secrets and it is filled with endless twists and turns. The suspense stays till the end and the ending was heart-throbbing. It’s just a mind-blowing book. I can’t wait to read more of the author’s works.
Thanks to the author, publisher and book tour organiser.
December 11, 2023
This is the third book I've read by this author now and I've really enjoyed all of them, so was keen to jump straight into this one.
Once again I was totally hooked by the end of the fist few chapters.
Amanda, an author, write dark fiction and when the police come knocking on her door with news that a collegue has been murdered in what looks like a copycat killing of one of her characters - all kinds of chaos begins.
With Amanda in the list of suspects, she starts to investigate and as another person linked to her, dies, there really is a race to find the murderer before more people die.
I quite liked Amanda and her history. I enjoyed all the secrets and lies that gradually become uncovered and the twists and turns in the narrative that just kept you on the edge of your seat.
There were numerous suspects and I'm happy to say that I guessed right (however, I literally suspected everyone at one point or other in the book so ....)
This was well written and cleverly presented, so that the reveal came as a surprise close to the end.
I love a good murder mystery and I think having that odd link to the bookish murders made it even more appealing.
Once again I was totally hooked by the end of the fist few chapters.
Amanda, an author, write dark fiction and when the police come knocking on her door with news that a collegue has been murdered in what looks like a copycat killing of one of her characters - all kinds of chaos begins.
With Amanda in the list of suspects, she starts to investigate and as another person linked to her, dies, there really is a race to find the murderer before more people die.
I quite liked Amanda and her history. I enjoyed all the secrets and lies that gradually become uncovered and the twists and turns in the narrative that just kept you on the edge of your seat.
There were numerous suspects and I'm happy to say that I guessed right (however, I literally suspected everyone at one point or other in the book so ....)
This was well written and cleverly presented, so that the reveal came as a surprise close to the end.
I love a good murder mystery and I think having that odd link to the bookish murders made it even more appealing.
December 9, 2023
Amanda Christie is a dark crime author, who tries to keep to herself. Reason being her Mother has been on the run for years after being accused of murder.
People start getting killed in the way the victims do in Amanda's books and she needs to prove her innocence. But who can she trust?
This book draws you in from the beginning and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. Amanda is very trusting with some people and then not with others, so you can see why she then starts to wonder who she can actually trust. I really enjoyed this and found it very fast paced. I kind of guessed who was involved, but the bombshell that came with it really surprised me. I just hadn't seen it coming.
People start getting killed in the way the victims do in Amanda's books and she needs to prove her innocence. But who can she trust?
This book draws you in from the beginning and keeps you wanting to know what happens next. Amanda is very trusting with some people and then not with others, so you can see why she then starts to wonder who she can actually trust. I really enjoyed this and found it very fast paced. I kind of guessed who was involved, but the bombshell that came with it really surprised me. I just hadn't seen it coming.
December 6, 2023
Her Mother's Daughter by Brian R. O'Rourke.
Amanda has a happy life. She is a successful writer and has now given up her job to write full time. But then there is a murder. One of Amanda ex colleagues. She is a suspect. Then another murder. Is someone out to get Amanda? Who? Why?
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn't sure how I felt about Amanda at first. Gripping and twisty. I didn't see that coming. 4*.
Amanda has a happy life. She is a successful writer and has now given up her job to write full time. But then there is a murder. One of Amanda ex colleagues. She is a suspect. Then another murder. Is someone out to get Amanda? Who? Why?
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn't sure how I felt about Amanda at first. Gripping and twisty. I didn't see that coming. 4*.
April 25, 2025
But the thought of sitting down to write seems ludicrous. Two women are dead, my mother is apparently hunting their killer, my ex-boyfriend is stalking me, and now even my home doesn’t feel safe.
Amanda Allen (now going by Amanda Christie), 39, is an author of suspenseful thrillers.
Her mother is Kimberly Dawn Allen, an alleged murderess who is still on the run. Amanda is convinced of her mother’s innocence.
Best friend is Becca, her neighbor.
Matthew Lopez, her violent ex-boyfriend.
Brandon Turner, the cute new guy. Formerly in IT and now, new paramour.
Sarah Keller, the way-too-interested fan.
On the long side for a psychological thriller, but does read quickly and easily. Well paced.
Amanda is likable and flawed.
Flashbacks are done super well.
Amanda’s rough childhood. Sharing with Brandon.
The notes.
Nora, Kim’s best friend.
Two copycat murders—lifted straight out of Amanda’s best-selling novels.
The pink comb.
Hard to remember the last time I was so invested in a suspect not being the villain…so of course the author goes that route.
This book would actually be close to excellent with different villain selection. The entire novel is one massive misdirection; it’s just a drawn-out Occam’s Razor.
He could have chosen any other villain and scenario and this would be a 5 ⭐️. He did not.
Excellent for 80%, then starts falling off. The last 10% is dreadful.
Oof. A new author who doesn’t thank his readers? 🚫
“Someone is trying to destroy you. I don’t know why, but I promise I’m going to stop them.”
Amanda Allen (now going by Amanda Christie), 39, is an author of suspenseful thrillers.
Her mother is Kimberly Dawn Allen, an alleged murderess who is still on the run. Amanda is convinced of her mother’s innocence.
Best friend is Becca, her neighbor.
Matthew Lopez, her violent ex-boyfriend.
Brandon Turner, the cute new guy. Formerly in IT and now, new paramour.
Sarah Keller, the way-too-interested fan.
On the long side for a psychological thriller, but does read quickly and easily. Well paced.
Amanda is likable and flawed.
Flashbacks are done super well.
Amanda’s rough childhood. Sharing with Brandon.
The notes.
Nora, Kim’s best friend.
Two copycat murders—lifted straight out of Amanda’s best-selling novels.
The pink comb.
Hard to remember the last time I was so invested in a suspect not being the villain…so of course the author goes that route.
This book would actually be close to excellent with different villain selection. The entire novel is one massive misdirection; it’s just a drawn-out Occam’s Razor.
He could have chosen any other villain and scenario and this would be a 5 ⭐️. He did not.
Excellent for 80%, then starts falling off. The last 10% is dreadful.
Oof. A new author who doesn’t thank his readers? 🚫
“Someone is trying to destroy you. I don’t know why, but I promise I’m going to stop them.”
November 28, 2023
You might think that someone whose mother was accused of being a murderer (and has since gone on the lam), would probably *not* be seeking fame and fortune by writing dark fiction books about, you guessed it, grisly murders! But in the case of Amanda Christie, you would be dead wrong. Pun intended.
Despite officially changing her surname - and what a great choice she made with that - Amanda has not been able to entirely distance herself from her mother's alleged actions. Her outing as her mother's daughter turned her life upside down, with any number of friends and colleagues cutting off contact with her. Though admittedly, it was great for her career...
Now things have got incredibly messy for Amanda, with an obsessed ex-boyfriend who's been accused of violence by one woman and has another girlfriend's mysterious death left unaccounted for, anonymous notes appearing on her door step, and worst of all, a colleague she didn't like showing up dead - that too, by a rather gruesome method of killing that once appeared in one of Amanda's books.
Could this all be a coincidence? The police certainly don't think so. As for Amanda herself, she doesn't really know what to think!
This is an engaging story - easy to read, and with a number of twists. It does require a suspension of disbelief, but if you can manage that, you are likely to enjoy it. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
Despite officially changing her surname - and what a great choice she made with that - Amanda has not been able to entirely distance herself from her mother's alleged actions. Her outing as her mother's daughter turned her life upside down, with any number of friends and colleagues cutting off contact with her. Though admittedly, it was great for her career...
Now things have got incredibly messy for Amanda, with an obsessed ex-boyfriend who's been accused of violence by one woman and has another girlfriend's mysterious death left unaccounted for, anonymous notes appearing on her door step, and worst of all, a colleague she didn't like showing up dead - that too, by a rather gruesome method of killing that once appeared in one of Amanda's books.
Could this all be a coincidence? The police certainly don't think so. As for Amanda herself, she doesn't really know what to think!
This is an engaging story - easy to read, and with a number of twists. It does require a suspension of disbelief, but if you can manage that, you are likely to enjoy it. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review
November 21, 2023
𝑴𝒚 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒈𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝑰 𝒂𝒎.
Amanda Christie is an up and coming thriller author with a lot going on in her personal life. She has broken things off with her boyfriend after seeing a side of him she didn't like, and he's not accepting the news well. But the event that knocked the world off its axis for Amanda is that someone has leaked who she really is--the daughter of an accused murderess.
Just like all those years ago, friends begin acting distant or disappearing altogether, and Amanda is worried about her future as a writer. But then something happens that she could never imagined--someone she knows is brutally murdered, and strangely enough, the unusual method of death is taken straight from the pages of one of her books. And before she can fully recover from the fallout, it happens again.
Who has it in for Amanda, and is that old cliche true that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree?
This was a fast-paced, engaging thriller with an original plot and realistic characters. You will have to suspend disbelief for much of the plot, but I have no problem doing that with fiction. I liked this enough to check out the author's other books. Thank you to Booksprout for the early copy.
Amanda Christie is an up and coming thriller author with a lot going on in her personal life. She has broken things off with her boyfriend after seeing a side of him she didn't like, and he's not accepting the news well. But the event that knocked the world off its axis for Amanda is that someone has leaked who she really is--the daughter of an accused murderess.
Just like all those years ago, friends begin acting distant or disappearing altogether, and Amanda is worried about her future as a writer. But then something happens that she could never imagined--someone she knows is brutally murdered, and strangely enough, the unusual method of death is taken straight from the pages of one of her books. And before she can fully recover from the fallout, it happens again.
Who has it in for Amanda, and is that old cliche true that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree?
This was a fast-paced, engaging thriller with an original plot and realistic characters. You will have to suspend disbelief for much of the plot, but I have no problem doing that with fiction. I liked this enough to check out the author's other books. Thank you to Booksprout for the early copy.
January 17, 2024
Amanda Christie, best-selling author, is now wanted for the murder of a former co-worker who has been killed in a fashion identical to a grisley scene in one of Amanda's books. Then another woman is killed who Amanda recently had an ugly public altercation with...also in a manner described in one of her bestsellers. To add a unique spin to her situation, Amanda is also known as the daughter of Kimberly Allen who notoriously killed her lover when Amanda was a child. Could it be that Amanda is truly her mother's daughter and guilty of murder herself?
Oh I liked this! Told exclusively from Amanda's viewpoint I felt like I was experiencing the events unfolding along with her. I suspected everyone, questioned everything, and enjoyed the fun twists as the pages turned. I never felt like Amanda was the typical unreliable alcoholic female narrator (I'm so over that trope) but instead a likeable interesting character who I found myself rooting for quite often. Granted she made some dumb mistakes (who doesn't) but overall I never had to say "what the heck are you doing, girl??"
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, very fun read!
Oh I liked this! Told exclusively from Amanda's viewpoint I felt like I was experiencing the events unfolding along with her. I suspected everyone, questioned everything, and enjoyed the fun twists as the pages turned. I never felt like Amanda was the typical unreliable alcoholic female narrator (I'm so over that trope) but instead a likeable interesting character who I found myself rooting for quite often. Granted she made some dumb mistakes (who doesn't) but overall I never had to say "what the heck are you doing, girl??"
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, very fun read!
Read
December 22, 2023The gripping narrative unfolds as Amanda, rocked by the shock of being suspected of murder, finds herself embroiled in a tangled web of mystery surrounding her family's hidden past. This book stands tall, earning a well-deserved place on the podium of thrilling and suspenseful reads.
The way Amanda navigates the harrowing accusation, coupled with the enigmatic revelations about her family's history, propels the story to remarkable heights. The book skillfully intertwines suspense and intrigue, keeping readers captivated by the intricate layers of the narrative.
What makes this story exceptional is the author's ability to draw readers into Amanda's world, immersing them in a whirlwind of emotions and uncovering a labyrinth of secrets. The exploration of Amanda's journey amidst the suspicion of murder and the unearthed mysteries of her family's past adds depth and intensity to the plot.
Overall, this book is a compelling narrative that enthralls readers with its suspenseful twists and turns, earning it a well-deserved place among the top contenders in the genre.
The way Amanda navigates the harrowing accusation, coupled with the enigmatic revelations about her family's history, propels the story to remarkable heights. The book skillfully intertwines suspense and intrigue, keeping readers captivated by the intricate layers of the narrative.
What makes this story exceptional is the author's ability to draw readers into Amanda's world, immersing them in a whirlwind of emotions and uncovering a labyrinth of secrets. The exploration of Amanda's journey amidst the suspicion of murder and the unearthed mysteries of her family's past adds depth and intensity to the plot.
Overall, this book is a compelling narrative that enthralls readers with its suspenseful twists and turns, earning it a well-deserved place among the top contenders in the genre.
November 24, 2023
Amanda is an author who has had quite a tough life. She has recently been 'outed' as being the daughter of a fugitive murderess, but it has done wonders for the sales of her books.
She is questioned about the gruesome murder of an ex-colleague which mimics a murder in one of her books. She did not get on with the woman, but would not have murdered her!
Shortly after, there is yet another murder, of a woman with whom she has had a public altercation with, and Amanda has to clear her name.
This is a riveting novel! A page turner, which I could barely put down. There is a little of everything in it, heartbreak, tragedy, love and of course, murder!
The characters are believable, and the plot could definitely happen.
This is the second of Brian R. O'Rourke's books that I have read, and I enjoyed it immensely.
I recommend.
A very solid 4/5 stars from me.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
She is questioned about the gruesome murder of an ex-colleague which mimics a murder in one of her books. She did not get on with the woman, but would not have murdered her!
Shortly after, there is yet another murder, of a woman with whom she has had a public altercation with, and Amanda has to clear her name.
This is a riveting novel! A page turner, which I could barely put down. There is a little of everything in it, heartbreak, tragedy, love and of course, murder!
The characters are believable, and the plot could definitely happen.
This is the second of Brian R. O'Rourke's books that I have read, and I enjoyed it immensely.
I recommend.
A very solid 4/5 stars from me.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
March 19, 2024
Amanda writes dark fiction. Now one fan is bringing her work to life.Amanda is enjoying her life – she’s a successful author who has finally managed to give up her day job.But then an ex-colleague is murdered in an exact reenactment of a killing from one of Amanda’s books. Even worse, Amanda had publicly quarreled with the dead woman and now finds herself a person of interest to the police.Then it happens a second time. Another person with whom Amanda had publicly fought is murdered. And again, the method used to kill is lifted straight from the pages of one of her books.It’s clear that someone is out to get Amanda. But who? And why?With the police seeing her as the prime suspect, Amanda is desperate to discover the person behind these grisly killings.As she digs for the truth, Amanda is forced to look into her own family’s troubled past, where she uncovers a web of secrets and lies far more shocking than anything she has ever written.
I really enjoyed this story.
I really enjoyed this story.
December 11, 2023
This is one of the better thrillers I have read this year! Amanda Christie is a successful author who writes dark, suspenseful thrillers. She lives a quiet, simple life that explodes when it comes out that her mother is a fugitive wanted for killing her lover. Just when she thinks the drama is settling down, until the police show up asking about a woman who was murdered in the same way that was depicted in Amanda’s first book and the woman was someone she knew and didn’t get along with. That is just the beginning of this very Suspenseful page turner! I look forward to reading more books by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2023
This was a very good, 4 star book, written by Brian O’Rourke. His style of writing is very concise and engaging.
Amanda is an aspiring author of crime novels. She’s written several books with great acclaim.
Suddenly, her true identify is leaked. She is the daughter of an alleged murderer, her mother.
Although estranged from her fugitive mother, she occasionally has limited contact with her.
When several more murders occur, Amanda becomes a prime suspect by the police.
This is a quick reading book, and flows very well.
I enjoyed reading and reviewing it!
Thank you to Booksprout and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
Amanda is an aspiring author of crime novels. She’s written several books with great acclaim.
Suddenly, her true identify is leaked. She is the daughter of an alleged murderer, her mother.
Although estranged from her fugitive mother, she occasionally has limited contact with her.
When several more murders occur, Amanda becomes a prime suspect by the police.
This is a quick reading book, and flows very well.
I enjoyed reading and reviewing it!
Thank you to Booksprout and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
December 8, 2023
This is the third book I’ve read by this author and he is now an author I will be watching. Each book has been full of twists and excitement.
I had to put down this book because real life interfered, but I read every chance I could. I liked the characters and background information in this book. I could picture things as I was reading.
I did guess a good part of it. I guessed who killed the man Amanda’s mother was accused of killing and I guessed a relationship that was kept secret. There were things I did not figure out though so I still had some surprises.
I did receive this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had to put down this book because real life interfered, but I read every chance I could. I liked the characters and background information in this book. I could picture things as I was reading.
I did guess a good part of it. I guessed who killed the man Amanda’s mother was accused of killing and I guessed a relationship that was kept secret. There were things I did not figure out though so I still had some surprises.
I did receive this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2023
Amanda is a successful author, her success is only recent, allowing her to now write full time.
One morning she is visited by the police asking her if she has any enemies, which she denies. However, it soon transpires that an ex colleague has been killed and Amanda had argued with her the last time they met.
Her life seems to be disintegrating, her secret is out about her mother, her ex is harassing her, she is a suspect in a murder investigation. Then she meets Brandon, they are immediately attracted. But is it too good to be true?
I found the book slow and hard to get into, but ok once into it.
One morning she is visited by the police asking her if she has any enemies, which she denies. However, it soon transpires that an ex colleague has been killed and Amanda had argued with her the last time they met.
Her life seems to be disintegrating, her secret is out about her mother, her ex is harassing her, she is a suspect in a murder investigation. Then she meets Brandon, they are immediately attracted. But is it too good to be true?
I found the book slow and hard to get into, but ok once into it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews