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D.I. Kim Stone #3
Lost Girls
Two girls go missing. Only one will return. The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realizes that these ruthless killers might be the deadliest she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour...
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families' past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone's child pay the ultimate price?
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realizes that these ruthless killers might be the deadliest she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour...
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families' past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone's child pay the ultimate price?
448 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2015
3456 people are currently reading
6918 people want to read
About the author
Angela Marsons
52 books4,988 followersAngela is the author of the Kim Stone Crime series. She discovered a love of writing at Primary School when a short piece on the rocks and the sea gained her the only merit point she ever got.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
Angela wrote the stories that burned inside and then stored them safely in a desk drawer.
After much urging from her partner she began to enter short story competitions in Writer's News resulting in a win and three short listed entries.
She used the Amazon KDP program to publish two of her earlier works before concentrating on her true passion - Crime.
Angela is now signed to write a total of 16 Kim Stone books for http://bookouture.com and has secured a print deal with Bonnier Zaffre Publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,787 reviews
June 18, 2016
I wish to thank Net Galley, Bookouture Publishing, and Ms. Angela Marsons for an ARC of Lost Girls in exchange for an unbiased review.
Well, I am dumbfounded. She did it. Ms. Marsons continues to raise the bar with each of her brilliant Kim Stone novels. Amazingly, Lost Girls (#3) is better than Evil Games (#2), which is better than her debut thriller Silent Scream (#1). And Silent Scream is a killer book!!! What does that make Lost Girls??? I can tell you one thing: there are not enough stars out there to award it properly. No sirreeee. Not even close. Lost Girls is my winner for 2015 book of the year.
Angela Marsons is very special. She knows how to spin a story into an extremely effective thriller. She grabbed me in the prologue and then subjected me to relentless suspense. And that last 10%. Holy cow. She nearly landed me in the hospital with anxiety overload. Furthermore, her writing is so clean and efficient; there is not a wasted word to be found. Twists and turns abound. And the end was a total shocker to me.
What more could one want, right? Well, when you add superb character development and outstanding character interaction to a fabulous thriller novel, you have a book that is perfect in my opinion. Ms. Marson is masterful at writing both plot-driven and character-driven stories. And when you are somehow able to partner both of these into one novel, that, dear readers, is a very potent combination. We continue to learn more about Kim’s backstory, and we start learning more about Kevin Dawson, one of her team members, as well. This info makes us care much more about these characters. In Lost Girls, Ms. Marsons brings in new people—a profiler and a negotiator—to help out Kim’s investigative team. Neither is warm and fuzzy, far from it, but Ms. Marsons eventually gets us on their side with their well-written interactions with the police officers. The interplay between each of these two characters and Kim Stone is just brilliant! Not only that, but the mutual understanding between Kim and Bryant, her chief partner and the closest thing she has to a friend, is priceless. And let me not fail to mention the fine job the author does in fleshing out the parents of the kidnapped girls. The feeling I get is that Ms. Marsons must be a 30-year veteran homicide detective AND a highly experienced psychiatrist/behaviorist in order to have the talent to write a book like this. This says a lot about how hard she must work at researching her novels.
Despite all my praise for Ms. Marsons, I do have one major beef with her. I have been so fortunate to have read many excellent novels this year, and it is almost time to fill out my top ten list for 2015. Well, Ms. Marsons, where am I to put all these wonderful books when yours are hogging 4 of the 10 slots? Answer me that!
Angela Marsons, over less than one year, has leaped from someone I never heard of into a tie for first place (with the esteemed William Kent Krueger) as my all time favorite author. If you have not read her books, you are in my opinion depriving yourself of reading one of the best character plus plot-driven thriller writers in the world. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Silent Scream ASAP. You will thank me afterwards.
As for Ms. Marsons, I have two words for you: Next, please!
XO
Well, I am dumbfounded. She did it. Ms. Marsons continues to raise the bar with each of her brilliant Kim Stone novels. Amazingly, Lost Girls (#3) is better than Evil Games (#2), which is better than her debut thriller Silent Scream (#1). And Silent Scream is a killer book!!! What does that make Lost Girls??? I can tell you one thing: there are not enough stars out there to award it properly. No sirreeee. Not even close. Lost Girls is my winner for 2015 book of the year.
Angela Marsons is very special. She knows how to spin a story into an extremely effective thriller. She grabbed me in the prologue and then subjected me to relentless suspense. And that last 10%. Holy cow. She nearly landed me in the hospital with anxiety overload. Furthermore, her writing is so clean and efficient; there is not a wasted word to be found. Twists and turns abound. And the end was a total shocker to me.
What more could one want, right? Well, when you add superb character development and outstanding character interaction to a fabulous thriller novel, you have a book that is perfect in my opinion. Ms. Marson is masterful at writing both plot-driven and character-driven stories. And when you are somehow able to partner both of these into one novel, that, dear readers, is a very potent combination. We continue to learn more about Kim’s backstory, and we start learning more about Kevin Dawson, one of her team members, as well. This info makes us care much more about these characters. In Lost Girls, Ms. Marsons brings in new people—a profiler and a negotiator—to help out Kim’s investigative team. Neither is warm and fuzzy, far from it, but Ms. Marsons eventually gets us on their side with their well-written interactions with the police officers. The interplay between each of these two characters and Kim Stone is just brilliant! Not only that, but the mutual understanding between Kim and Bryant, her chief partner and the closest thing she has to a friend, is priceless. And let me not fail to mention the fine job the author does in fleshing out the parents of the kidnapped girls. The feeling I get is that Ms. Marsons must be a 30-year veteran homicide detective AND a highly experienced psychiatrist/behaviorist in order to have the talent to write a book like this. This says a lot about how hard she must work at researching her novels.
Despite all my praise for Ms. Marsons, I do have one major beef with her. I have been so fortunate to have read many excellent novels this year, and it is almost time to fill out my top ten list for 2015. Well, Ms. Marsons, where am I to put all these wonderful books when yours are hogging 4 of the 10 slots? Answer me that!
Angela Marsons, over less than one year, has leaped from someone I never heard of into a tie for first place (with the esteemed William Kent Krueger) as my all time favorite author. If you have not read her books, you are in my opinion depriving yourself of reading one of the best character plus plot-driven thriller writers in the world. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Silent Scream ASAP. You will thank me afterwards.
As for Ms. Marsons, I have two words for you: Next, please!
XO
November 9, 2015
Angela Marsons takes us right into the heart of the places that are pivotal in this story of child abduction - the police investigation room, the parents homes, the kidnappers HQ, and of course, the place where the girls are held. It goes without saying that THIS place in particular is a truly unsettling, terrifying one. The girls knew that whenever they heard footsteps coming down the stairs, that something very unpleasant would occur. The sensation of being there, was so real, that just imagining those footsteps ( knowing who they belonged to ) was just the most scary thing ever. This is a really compelling read - I found it hard to put down, and when I did, I was constantly thinking about it. The pages literally flew by as my eagerness and anxiety to discover the girls fate completely took over. I honestly don't think my review could ever do justice to this brilliant book. Angela Marsons, I now worship at your altar!
*Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my free copy*
*Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my free copy*
October 28, 2015
They say that music can raise the soul with passion, but words can dance in your mind, and create a scenic description of another place in time, both believable and lasting. After having read this amazing book, “Lost Girls” by Angela Marsons, the third instalment in the DS Kim Stone series, I am at a loss for words. Her books just keep getting better and better. I can only hope that my review can do this book justice. I will try.
I sensed right from page one that this was going to be another winner. While there are some subjects in the book that are sensitive in nature, Angela handles them with utmost respect. We get to see a different side of Kim in this book, while we realize she has come from an unhappy childhood, we see how much she is a loner, a survivor, but totally devoted to her job but showing compassion, and the only love in her life, her border collie, Barney.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
This was a fast-paced addictive thriller, with believable characters and plot. While the tension was high throughout the book, the last 10% was totally nerve-racketing. Forget any distractions stay focused.
This book really does have it all. The book is out on 6th November . Order it now!
I can’t wait to read more of Angela’s books!
Many thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
I sensed right from page one that this was going to be another winner. While there are some subjects in the book that are sensitive in nature, Angela handles them with utmost respect. We get to see a different side of Kim in this book, while we realize she has come from an unhappy childhood, we see how much she is a loner, a survivor, but totally devoted to her job but showing compassion, and the only love in her life, her border collie, Barney.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
This was a fast-paced addictive thriller, with believable characters and plot. While the tension was high throughout the book, the last 10% was totally nerve-racketing. Forget any distractions stay focused.
This book really does have it all. The book is out on 6th November . Order it now!
I can’t wait to read more of Angela’s books!
Many thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
August 1, 2022
YEP. 2 stars. Very sad face.
SYNOPSIS
Two girls are kidnapped; two families pitted against each other to see which girl survives. Kim Stone must catch the sickos responsible to bring both girls home alive.
MY OPINION
Y'all know I LOVE Miss Marsons and this series, but I was really disappointed in this one. And yes, I know the ratings for this go brazy, but here I am, on outlier island... which tbh is my home address.
Anyways. Why 2 stars?
1. This shit was TOOOO long. About 100 pages too long. There were a lot of unnecessary chapters and scenes. Like Symes getting a bj by a homeless guy. Who asked??? Even though this series tends to be on the longer side, there's usually enough juiciness to keep me hooked. Unfortunately this instalment was bone dry.
2. She really just glazed over the DV incidents regarding one of the couples. Kim knew mans was punching on his wife and went full Helen Keller in response. Out of sight out of mind I guess? And then at the end when Bryant was like "if he plays his cards right she'll prob forgive him" or some shit I was like nah. Arrest him? He literally broke the law and you know it?? The only cards he should be playing is with other inmates.
3. Kim was on her worst behaviour. Goading Brad into "pushing" her so she could arrest him, bring him to the station, and force him to work with a sketch artist was doing too much. I get that it's important he help a brutha out, but if you can't find a better way to convince him than whipping out the ole unlawful arrest maneuver then that's on you. Also her deep dislike for that negotiator guy was so ironic... You literally have the same personality. Maybe a good time for some self reflection?? No?? Ok just keep hating him then.
SPOILERS SO KEEP ON SCROLLING
4. Plot holes galore. Why did Will keep Suzie for so long? How did Symes not know about it? But seriously... he had months to get some $$ from Suzie's mom and instead spent his own money keeping the girl (barely) alive. What was the point? And if Will liked to work alone so much, how did Heather get brought in and promoted to big boss lady? Did they ever say who tampered with Karen's car? Why didn't they install security cameras at the home?
5. WTFFFF was that resolution to the Dewain Wright case. You can't be serious.
All in all, I would've rated this 3 stars (generously) but it was simply too dismissive of DV. Not cool.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: I still like this series
Cons: dismissive about DV, plot holes, too long, dragged in some parts, Kim was peak annoying, repetitive, ending *fart noises*
SYNOPSIS
Two girls are kidnapped; two families pitted against each other to see which girl survives. Kim Stone must catch the sickos responsible to bring both girls home alive.
MY OPINION
Y'all know I LOVE Miss Marsons and this series, but I was really disappointed in this one. And yes, I know the ratings for this go brazy, but here I am, on outlier island... which tbh is my home address.
Anyways. Why 2 stars?
1. This shit was TOOOO long. About 100 pages too long. There were a lot of unnecessary chapters and scenes. Like Symes getting a bj by a homeless guy. Who asked??? Even though this series tends to be on the longer side, there's usually enough juiciness to keep me hooked. Unfortunately this instalment was bone dry.
2. She really just glazed over the DV incidents regarding one of the couples. Kim knew mans was punching on his wife and went full Helen Keller in response. Out of sight out of mind I guess? And then at the end when Bryant was like "if he plays his cards right she'll prob forgive him" or some shit I was like nah. Arrest him? He literally broke the law and you know it?? The only cards he should be playing is with other inmates.
3. Kim was on her worst behaviour. Goading Brad into "pushing" her so she could arrest him, bring him to the station, and force him to work with a sketch artist was doing too much. I get that it's important he help a brutha out, but if you can't find a better way to convince him than whipping out the ole unlawful arrest maneuver then that's on you. Also her deep dislike for that negotiator guy was so ironic... You literally have the same personality. Maybe a good time for some self reflection?? No?? Ok just keep hating him then.
SPOILERS SO KEEP ON SCROLLING
4. Plot holes galore. Why did Will keep Suzie for so long? How did Symes not know about it? But seriously... he had months to get some $$ from Suzie's mom and instead spent his own money keeping the girl (barely) alive. What was the point? And if Will liked to work alone so much, how did Heather get brought in and promoted to big boss lady? Did they ever say who tampered with Karen's car? Why didn't they install security cameras at the home?
5. WTFFFF was that resolution to the Dewain Wright case. You can't be serious.
All in all, I would've rated this 3 stars (generously) but it was simply too dismissive of DV. Not cool.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: I still like this series
Cons: dismissive about DV, plot holes, too long, dragged in some parts, Kim was peak annoying, repetitive, ending *fart noises*
February 14, 2018
I’ve loved all of the Angela Marsons’ Kim Stone series that I’ve read. Thanks to netgalley, I got hooked on her latter books and never got around to reading all of her earlier ones. I’m now rectifying that mistake.
Kidnapped children are standard fare in mystery novels. But the idea of two children taken, with the families pitted against each other in a bidding war to see which is allowed to return, that’s something new and different. And darker. It would be dark and twisted regardless, but these families were good friends. And now, they’re not. So you’re trapped in this hell and the psychopath has even taken away one of the main sources of comfort you should have had. Marsons has done a great job here of taking this idea to a whole new level.
And what amazing writing. This again goes beyond the standard for mysteries. “When things went to plan his mind remained calm, composed. There was a gentle rhythm that played in the background but an unexpected event released the orchestra in his head. Instruments banged out of time, strings screeched painfully, bringing a cacophony of noise from which he couldn’t escape.”
The tension here is unbearable. I felt Kim’s frustration as deeply as she did. Kim tries to carry the whole load. In the “letter from Angela”, Ms. Marsons writes “whilst Kim might not be the warmest of characters” but I think she has it wrong. Kim’s got a heart bigger than all outdoors, so use a cliche. She just doesn’t show it. Thank heavens for Bryant. The are a great duo.
And yes, the ending is a bit unbelievable, but who cares? This is still a superb mystery.
May 25, 2016
Angela Marsons and D.I. Kim Stone, I will follow you anywhere.
And follow I did. I crept behind the tight twist of tension page by page. You know what I'm talking about. When your stomach muscles clench as if someone were poised over you with the tautness of a rubberband. And that rubberband is stretched so near your delicate skin. Just waiting. SNAP!
D.I. Kim Stone and her team are back again in the third book of this popular series. Two nine year old girls have been abducted as they wait to be picked up by their parents. Kim has been warned by Chief Inspector Woodward that there is a media blackout and no one can discuss or leak information. This has been set up as a precautionary measure since two other young girls had been abducted previously and only one was returned.
The mother of one of the abducted girls, Karen, has specifically requested that Kim head the investigation. She and Kim were teenagers together and we learn more details of Kim's secretive past. The team sets up a command center in Karen's home and we experience the daily nightmare of what is at stake.
Angela Marsons has created a resilient, no-nonsense character in Kim Stone. She doesn't leap out of the box covered in warm fuzzies. Marsons cracks the door open just slightly with each book in the series to reveal just enough about Stone's past. There is a heart beating under that protective police vest. The beats may not be heard readily under layer upon layer of self-insulated covering. And Kim plays her cards close to that vest for reasons not to be shared.
Although the subject matter carries a lot of weight and foreboding, Marsons treats it with respect due. Her books are not meant to sensationalize or tantalize. The storyline is weaved with intelligence and analytical procedures displayed by Stone and her team. That's why this is a smart read.
And that's why I'm following closely behind watching for any indication of the next book in line in this series. Just say the word, Angela Marsons, and I'm there.
And follow I did. I crept behind the tight twist of tension page by page. You know what I'm talking about. When your stomach muscles clench as if someone were poised over you with the tautness of a rubberband. And that rubberband is stretched so near your delicate skin. Just waiting. SNAP!
D.I. Kim Stone and her team are back again in the third book of this popular series. Two nine year old girls have been abducted as they wait to be picked up by their parents. Kim has been warned by Chief Inspector Woodward that there is a media blackout and no one can discuss or leak information. This has been set up as a precautionary measure since two other young girls had been abducted previously and only one was returned.
The mother of one of the abducted girls, Karen, has specifically requested that Kim head the investigation. She and Kim were teenagers together and we learn more details of Kim's secretive past. The team sets up a command center in Karen's home and we experience the daily nightmare of what is at stake.
Angela Marsons has created a resilient, no-nonsense character in Kim Stone. She doesn't leap out of the box covered in warm fuzzies. Marsons cracks the door open just slightly with each book in the series to reveal just enough about Stone's past. There is a heart beating under that protective police vest. The beats may not be heard readily under layer upon layer of self-insulated covering. And Kim plays her cards close to that vest for reasons not to be shared.
Although the subject matter carries a lot of weight and foreboding, Marsons treats it with respect due. Her books are not meant to sensationalize or tantalize. The storyline is weaved with intelligence and analytical procedures displayed by Stone and her team. That's why this is a smart read.
And that's why I'm following closely behind watching for any indication of the next book in line in this series. Just say the word, Angela Marsons, and I'm there.
February 12, 2016
I'd like to thank Netgalley for my digital copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
WAAAAHHH! I need more DI Kim Stone! These books are top notch and I don't know that my thirst for them will ever be quenched. It seems each book is better than the last and that is a tough job. How do you improve excellence?
Ok, very late to the party as most of my GR friends have read this but they were right! This book was better than excellent. The short summary is that there is a cruel kidnapper(s) who is targeting wealthy families and snatching their children who are best friends. The couple who offers the highest amount ransom gets their child back; the other will die. Kim and her team sweep in and are determined to bring both children home.
This was a wild ride! The story was complex and well researched but easy to follow and sucked me right in. I couldn't put this down! We also got to see a little more backstory into one of her teammates, Kev Dawson, which I greatly enjoyed. Well-developed characters, well-written plot, well-researched details and facts; to me, this makes for a great read. I can only hope (and beg?) for another DI Kim Stone novel ASAP! Thanks Angela Marsons for another compulsive read!
WAAAAHHH! I need more DI Kim Stone! These books are top notch and I don't know that my thirst for them will ever be quenched. It seems each book is better than the last and that is a tough job. How do you improve excellence?
Ok, very late to the party as most of my GR friends have read this but they were right! This book was better than excellent. The short summary is that there is a cruel kidnapper(s) who is targeting wealthy families and snatching their children who are best friends. The couple who offers the highest amount ransom gets their child back; the other will die. Kim and her team sweep in and are determined to bring both children home.
This was a wild ride! The story was complex and well researched but easy to follow and sucked me right in. I couldn't put this down! We also got to see a little more backstory into one of her teammates, Kev Dawson, which I greatly enjoyed. Well-developed characters, well-written plot, well-researched details and facts; to me, this makes for a great read. I can only hope (and beg?) for another DI Kim Stone novel ASAP! Thanks Angela Marsons for another compulsive read!
March 15, 2016
I just love this series!
Two little girls are abducted from a leisure center and both girls are friends. The kidnappers leave a text message that one child will be left alive and the other girl will be dead. In a past kidnapping this ended up to be true. DI Kim Stone is on the case. I really like Kim. I think her detective skills are great. There are lot of twists and turns. The suspense keeps you turning the pages.
It did have me trying to predict the villain. It took me awhile to figure it out. I was really surprised on how creative and how things were happening. The decisions that the parents have to go through would be so hard to do. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. This is the third book in the DI Kim Stone series.
Two little girls are abducted from a leisure center and both girls are friends. The kidnappers leave a text message that one child will be left alive and the other girl will be dead. In a past kidnapping this ended up to be true. DI Kim Stone is on the case. I really like Kim. I think her detective skills are great. There are lot of twists and turns. The suspense keeps you turning the pages.
It did have me trying to predict the villain. It took me awhile to figure it out. I was really surprised on how creative and how things were happening. The decisions that the parents have to go through would be so hard to do. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. This is the third book in the DI Kim Stone series.
February 20, 2021
Gripping and terrifying! Complete with a shocking conclusion! The third installment in the D.I. Kim Stone series is the best one yet!!
When nine year old Amy and Charlie go missing, a text message sent to both of the girl's mother verifies everyone's worst fears.
The girls have been kidnapped.
"There is no need to rush. Charlotte will not be home today. This is not a hoax. I have your daughter."
" Amy will not be home today. This is not a hoax. I have your daughter."
When the second text arrives the relief that both girls are still alive is short-lived, replaced by a terrifying dread of what is to come.
"‘Another text message, Marm,’ Helen said, poking her head in the doorway. Kim had guessed as much from Karen’s scream and brushed past the liaison officer. The messages are identical.
"Your daughter is safe for now. The game will begin tomorrow."
Then the third text....
"How much do you love your daughter? Measure it in pounds. Healthy competition brings out the best in people. The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. These are the rules and they will not change. I will be in touch. Make no mistake. One child will die."
The makeshift incident room still held the stunned silence from the horror of that message. But they couldn’t dwell on it. Kim had to get their focus back on what they were here to do. ‘Right, we can’t allow this to paralyse us . The kidnappers may be playing a sick game but we are not. Nothing has changed, folks. We want both those little girls home.’‘It’s horrific, though, boss,’ Stacey breathed. Bryant looked pained. ‘Even making the offer would potentially seal the death of another child.’ Kim nodded. The thought was sickening, but no less true.
It was time to start fighting back.
******
Lost Girls by Angela Marsons is the third book in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
The storyline grabbed me by the throat and raced along at a breakneck pace all the way to the last page!
The characters in this series are rich with differing personalities and faults but as a team they are relentless.
They are fantastic from book one but this is the best one yet! I love this series and will be diving into the fourth book, Play Dead, immediately as I can't wait to see what happens next!
When nine year old Amy and Charlie go missing, a text message sent to both of the girl's mother verifies everyone's worst fears.
The girls have been kidnapped.
"There is no need to rush. Charlotte will not be home today. This is not a hoax. I have your daughter."
" Amy will not be home today. This is not a hoax. I have your daughter."
When the second text arrives the relief that both girls are still alive is short-lived, replaced by a terrifying dread of what is to come.
"‘Another text message, Marm,’ Helen said, poking her head in the doorway. Kim had guessed as much from Karen’s scream and brushed past the liaison officer. The messages are identical.
"Your daughter is safe for now. The game will begin tomorrow."
Then the third text....
"How much do you love your daughter? Measure it in pounds. Healthy competition brings out the best in people. The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. These are the rules and they will not change. I will be in touch. Make no mistake. One child will die."
The makeshift incident room still held the stunned silence from the horror of that message. But they couldn’t dwell on it. Kim had to get their focus back on what they were here to do. ‘Right, we can’t allow this to paralyse us . The kidnappers may be playing a sick game but we are not. Nothing has changed, folks. We want both those little girls home.’‘It’s horrific, though, boss,’ Stacey breathed. Bryant looked pained. ‘Even making the offer would potentially seal the death of another child.’ Kim nodded. The thought was sickening, but no less true.
It was time to start fighting back.
******
Lost Girls by Angela Marsons is the third book in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
The storyline grabbed me by the throat and raced along at a breakneck pace all the way to the last page!
The characters in this series are rich with differing personalities and faults but as a team they are relentless.
They are fantastic from book one but this is the best one yet! I love this series and will be diving into the fourth book, Play Dead, immediately as I can't wait to see what happens next!
October 16, 2015
Despite the fact that i'd preordered this book, as soon as I saw it on Netgalley, I knew i'd have to try and get it. Thankfully, I was approved quickly. I downloaded it this morning and finished it in the same day.
I just couldn't wait to see more of DI Kim Stone.
My expectations were high. The book did not let me down.
I don't tend to write long reviews for Marsons' books. Probably because they'd be too embarassingly gushing. I'll write this piece of enthusiam now and return with a full review once i've calmed down...
As with the last two novels, the writing is fantastic and the plot clever. But more than this, the characters stand out from the page, real and fallible and present in a way that so many books fail to do.
Marsons is one of the best crime writers out there. I never close her books with any feeling of disappointment, except that I have to wait for the next installment. I urge everybody to give this series a go.
Huge thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Also, I fully intend to keep my preorder. Every little helps to keep these novels coming!
I just couldn't wait to see more of DI Kim Stone.
My expectations were high. The book did not let me down.
I don't tend to write long reviews for Marsons' books. Probably because they'd be too embarassingly gushing. I'll write this piece of enthusiam now and return with a full review once i've calmed down...
As with the last two novels, the writing is fantastic and the plot clever. But more than this, the characters stand out from the page, real and fallible and present in a way that so many books fail to do.
Marsons is one of the best crime writers out there. I never close her books with any feeling of disappointment, except that I have to wait for the next installment. I urge everybody to give this series a go.
Huge thanks to Angela Marsons, Bookouture, and Netgalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Also, I fully intend to keep my preorder. Every little helps to keep these novels coming!
May 24, 2018
EXCERPT: Emily Billingham tried to scream through the hand that covered her mouth.
The fingers were thin but strong againsther lower jaw. She forced out a sound that bounced back off his flesh and threw back her head to try and prise herself free. The back of her skull met with something hard, a rib.
'Knock it off, you stupid little bitch,' he said, dragging her backwards.
The poundingin her ears almost drowned out his words. She could feel her own heart beating hard against her chest.
The fabric across her eyes blocked out her surroundings but she felt the gravel underfoot.
Every step took her further from Suzie.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families’ past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone’s child pay the ultimate price?
MY THOUGHTS: Angela Marsons just keeps writing books that enthral and appal, but that you just can't put down.
She comes up with original plots that she writes with a frightening grip on reality. Reading Lost Girls, I was on the edge of my seat and snarling at anyone who tried to interrupt me.
"When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping."
But now comes the twist: the two families - best friends - are plunged into a bidding war against each other, for the kidnapper will only release one child, that of the family who pays him the most money.
Three quarters of the way through, I thought I knew where this was going. I was wrong, so very, very wrong! Well Done Angela Marsons - another 5* read! Next please!
This is the third book in her DI Kim Stone series, and I recommend that, if you have not read the earlier two, that you start with the first, Silent Scream.
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Lost Girls by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
The fingers were thin but strong againsther lower jaw. She forced out a sound that bounced back off his flesh and threw back her head to try and prise herself free. The back of her skull met with something hard, a rib.
'Knock it off, you stupid little bitch,' he said, dragging her backwards.
The poundingin her ears almost drowned out his words. She could feel her own heart beating hard against her chest.
The fabric across her eyes blocked out her surroundings but she felt the gravel underfoot.
Every step took her further from Suzie.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families’ past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone’s child pay the ultimate price?
MY THOUGHTS: Angela Marsons just keeps writing books that enthral and appal, but that you just can't put down.
She comes up with original plots that she writes with a frightening grip on reality. Reading Lost Girls, I was on the edge of my seat and snarling at anyone who tried to interrupt me.
"When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping."
But now comes the twist: the two families - best friends - are plunged into a bidding war against each other, for the kidnapper will only release one child, that of the family who pays him the most money.
Three quarters of the way through, I thought I knew where this was going. I was wrong, so very, very wrong! Well Done Angela Marsons - another 5* read! Next please!
This is the third book in her DI Kim Stone series, and I recommend that, if you have not read the earlier two, that you start with the first, Silent Scream.
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Lost Girls by Angela Marsons for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 13, 2015
Angela Marsons is an author that I followed from day one. Her first book, her debut novel was just so well written, so professional, just like any Best Seller book I have read that had been published over the years that I had to come back, I read her secound book. And now, I have read this one.
Kate Stone
She is the DI, the main character in this series. Although they can be read as stand alone reads, I would urge you to read from the first one as you get a better insight to Kate Stone and the reason she acts the way she does.
More and more I am liking Kate.
This book was about children, two little girls who were taken.
But where are they?
Who has taken them?
And most importantly...why.
This is a story unlike one I have read before. The plot was so well written I didn't know for sure where it was going to lead to.
This author has a way of surprising you.
This author also has a way of bringing you into the fold and company of each character, you get to know them, you see their faces in your minds eye.
The descriptions, they details and how she writes help you to form the drama in your mind. You can see the people, you can see the little girls, the details are there.
There were some gruesome bits, when the nasty man killed a cat making the girls watch. Now this, it was stomach churning yes....
But it had to be. But the thing was, it was not me I was thinking about, it was those poor little girls sat there being made to watch. I could just picture their little faces and hear their loud screams and cries.
I absolutely love the way this author writes. She brings me right into the story and I just lap it up.
Each time I feel shes going to run out of stories, she surprises us with yet another WHOPPER of a read.
I was sorry to finish this, because I just don't know when her next book is coming!!
She cannot write fast enough for me to devour her books.
I have to thank "Bookouture" via Net Galley for my copy. As always, they host a lot of really fab reads.
You can find Angela Marsons on these links:
www.Twitter.com/WriteAngie
www.Facebook.com/AngelaMarsonsAuthor
www.AngelaMarsons-Books.com
This is my Amazon Bio
Angela Marsons is the author of
Amazon #1 Bestseller SILENT SCREAM.
She lives in the Black Country with her partner,
their bouncy Labrador and a swearing parrot.
She first discovered her love of writing at Junior School
when actual lessons came second to watching other people and
quietly making up her own stories about them. Her report
card invariably read "Angela would do well if
she minded her own business as well as she minds other people's".
After years of writing relationship based stories
(My Name Is and The Middle Child) Angela turned
to Crime, fictionally speaking of course,
and developed a character that refused to go away.
She is signed to Bookouture.com in an 8 book deal.
The second book in the Kim Stone series, EVIL GAMES,
was released 29th May 2015 and the third LOST GIRLS was released on 6th November
November 3, 2015
'Game on.'
Kim Stone, Detective Inspector. Coffee fiend, Ninja rider. She has a dog she loves, but shies away from human companionship. Kim barks orders, and gets all growly if questioned on her decisions. Not a warm and fuzzy personality, but she shines at what she does and she is relentless.
Two 9 year old girls are snatched. The abductors intend to play the girls' families against each other; only one little girl is to be returned, the other will be killed. The way in which it is set up is chilling.
Here is a true thriller, absolute perfection in the pacing. A copy was furnished to me by Net Galley in exchange for a review. Thank you.
Kim Stone, Detective Inspector. Coffee fiend, Ninja rider. She has a dog she loves, but shies away from human companionship. Kim barks orders, and gets all growly if questioned on her decisions. Not a warm and fuzzy personality, but she shines at what she does and she is relentless.
Two 9 year old girls are snatched. The abductors intend to play the girls' families against each other; only one little girl is to be returned, the other will be killed. The way in which it is set up is chilling.
Here is a true thriller, absolute perfection in the pacing. A copy was furnished to me by Net Galley in exchange for a review. Thank you.
December 9, 2017
You just can't go wrong by picking up a book by Angela Marsons, after reading and loving the first two books in this great series I knew that this one would not let me down and it most certainly did not. Terrific!
I really like the plot ideas that Angela comes up with, there is always a little twist, a tweak that makes the plot that little bit more special, basically you get reeled in very early and the book keeps it's grip on you until the very last word is read on the page. I always read Angela's books in one sitting over a few hours as they are compelling and you can't really do "just one chapter", trust me, I tried it, it got me to the end of the book saying that over and over.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
So picture that. You are a parent, your best friend's child has been kidnapped alongside your own and the kidnappers contact you to let you know the auction has begun for your child. Highest bidder wins. Now that's going to challenge the strength of any friendship, not to say personal moral direction and belief systems coming into play. There are some fascinating person to person dynamics in this book.
I found the scenes featuring the two young girls in their plight quite harrowing without being garish and over the top, I could smell their fear and my heart was with them as they clung to each other for comfort in the awful situation they are in. I was thinking about how the parents would feel being a parent myself, worst nightmare. Just mind-blowing and heart breaking.
D.I. Kim Stone is back on form with her no-holds-barred method of dealing with people and taking no crap. What she cares about is getting these girls home and if she offends you along the way well tough cheesy bites. Get over it basically. Beneath the sometimes hard exterior is a woman who is dedicated to her job and like a dog with a bone when it comes to closing a case. She is the one you want on your side.
I really enjoyed this book, I don't think there is much more I can add as yet again it's a bloody good book from a brilliant author. So why only 4 stars (4.5 actually) for this one and not 5 stars like the first two books? I had to really think about what it was and all I can pin it on is that I felt it lacked some of the dark edges I was hoping for, a bit more depth. But hey, don't get me wrong I thoroughly loved the book. A champion of a novel from an author that shines amongst the busy genre of crime thrillers and police procedurals.
For more of my reviews, books to win, author spotlights, and book talk:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley. I also pre-ordered this book in support of the author.
I really like the plot ideas that Angela comes up with, there is always a little twist, a tweak that makes the plot that little bit more special, basically you get reeled in very early and the book keeps it's grip on you until the very last word is read on the page. I always read Angela's books in one sitting over a few hours as they are compelling and you can't really do "just one chapter", trust me, I tried it, it got me to the end of the book saying that over and over.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
So picture that. You are a parent, your best friend's child has been kidnapped alongside your own and the kidnappers contact you to let you know the auction has begun for your child. Highest bidder wins. Now that's going to challenge the strength of any friendship, not to say personal moral direction and belief systems coming into play. There are some fascinating person to person dynamics in this book.
I found the scenes featuring the two young girls in their plight quite harrowing without being garish and over the top, I could smell their fear and my heart was with them as they clung to each other for comfort in the awful situation they are in. I was thinking about how the parents would feel being a parent myself, worst nightmare. Just mind-blowing and heart breaking.
D.I. Kim Stone is back on form with her no-holds-barred method of dealing with people and taking no crap. What she cares about is getting these girls home and if she offends you along the way well tough cheesy bites. Get over it basically. Beneath the sometimes hard exterior is a woman who is dedicated to her job and like a dog with a bone when it comes to closing a case. She is the one you want on your side.
I really enjoyed this book, I don't think there is much more I can add as yet again it's a bloody good book from a brilliant author. So why only 4 stars (4.5 actually) for this one and not 5 stars like the first two books? I had to really think about what it was and all I can pin it on is that I felt it lacked some of the dark edges I was hoping for, a bit more depth. But hey, don't get me wrong I thoroughly loved the book. A champion of a novel from an author that shines amongst the busy genre of crime thrillers and police procedurals.
For more of my reviews, books to win, author spotlights, and book talk:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley. I also pre-ordered this book in support of the author.
November 28, 2015
Fast paced is right! The latest in the D.I. Kim Stone series starts off with a bang and doesn't let up! From the first gripping page you are hooked! Lost Girls is a fantastic read!
Kim Stone is back again after two young girls are kidnapped. One of the mothers asks for Kim directly to get her daughter back. But why did she ask for Kim? What history do they have? And is Kim going to be able to find both the girls when she discovers that the kidnappers have previously taken two young girls, and only one was returned?
Totally gripping from the start to the end. Thought it was fantastic!
If you haven't read the previous two Kim Stone novels, its not a necessity - however I feel that you will not grasp the entirety of Kim's character, and why she is the way she is, if you don't read the others. Especially Evil Games.
Kim, what can I say about her? I have totally warmed to her character in the last two novels. I really enjoy her escapades and the way she works. I love her team and love her lack of social skills! I think she is fantastic! I only wish for a touch of romance! That's the only thing that I feel has been missing from the series. We had a glimmer in each book, but that was it.
Lost Girls is really well written. Easy and quick to read and its not easy to put down!
My ONLY criticism apart from the romance, is something that is totally my fault... I guess I read so many thrillers and 'who-done-it's' that I always guess who the bad guy is. And this one was a bit too predictable for me. I knew who the uber bad guy was straight away, and even in the parrallel storyline I guessed who the perpetrator was straight away. I must say I was disappointed that I was right. HOWEVER it didn't take any of the fun away from the story. And hopefully others will be more surprised.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely! It was a really enjoyable read!
Many thanks to Angela Marsons and the publisher Bookoutre via NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
For more reviews visit my blog
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
Twitter:
www.twitter.com/BBB_Mel
Kim Stone is back again after two young girls are kidnapped. One of the mothers asks for Kim directly to get her daughter back. But why did she ask for Kim? What history do they have? And is Kim going to be able to find both the girls when she discovers that the kidnappers have previously taken two young girls, and only one was returned?
Totally gripping from the start to the end. Thought it was fantastic!
If you haven't read the previous two Kim Stone novels, its not a necessity - however I feel that you will not grasp the entirety of Kim's character, and why she is the way she is, if you don't read the others. Especially Evil Games.
Kim, what can I say about her? I have totally warmed to her character in the last two novels. I really enjoy her escapades and the way she works. I love her team and love her lack of social skills! I think she is fantastic! I only wish for a touch of romance! That's the only thing that I feel has been missing from the series. We had a glimmer in each book, but that was it.
Lost Girls is really well written. Easy and quick to read and its not easy to put down!
My ONLY criticism apart from the romance, is something that is totally my fault... I guess I read so many thrillers and 'who-done-it's' that I always guess who the bad guy is. And this one was a bit too predictable for me. I knew who the uber bad guy was straight away, and even in the parrallel storyline I guessed who the perpetrator was straight away. I must say I was disappointed that I was right. HOWEVER it didn't take any of the fun away from the story. And hopefully others will be more surprised.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely! It was a really enjoyable read!
Many thanks to Angela Marsons and the publisher Bookoutre via NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
For more reviews visit my blog
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
Twitter:
www.twitter.com/BBB_Mel
January 21, 2025
The third book in this great series.
Two young girls go missing and their kidnappers offer the parents a bidding war over how much they are prepared to pay to see their daughters again. The winner gets their child back, the loser does not. Or so they say. D.I.Kim Stone is determined that both girls will be found and the clock is ticking.
The whole book is tense and there is a totally unexpected twist at the end. Stone is determined and willing to bend rules in order to win. Her team is dedicated and ready to follow her lead anywhere. This is an excellently written and totally gripping read. Highly recommended.
Two young girls go missing and their kidnappers offer the parents a bidding war over how much they are prepared to pay to see their daughters again. The winner gets their child back, the loser does not. Or so they say. D.I.Kim Stone is determined that both girls will be found and the clock is ticking.
The whole book is tense and there is a totally unexpected twist at the end. Stone is determined and willing to bend rules in order to win. Her team is dedicated and ready to follow her lead anywhere. This is an excellently written and totally gripping read. Highly recommended.
December 15, 2020
Kidnapping cases are always awful but this time, it’s much, much worse. DI Kim Stone and her team are handed the case where two nine-year old girls, best friends, were abducted in broad daylight. What makes it even more insidious are the demands of their captors. The parents are pitted against each other to bid for their child. The winning bidders will get their child back; the losing couple will not. It’s a tough case where the clues are spare and tensions are in the stratosphere.
What made this story even more of a nail biter is having the points of view of the abductors. It’s made clear very early on how dangerous and sadistic at least one was and he scared me silly. His tormenting of those children was close to unbearable so of course I couldn’t stop listening until the end. The dynamics between the parents and the team were just as anxiety ridden and Kim is almost at a breaking point.
It’s an outstanding story if you can take the nerve wracking suspense and fear for those children. There are other related issues going on, as if the abduction wasn’t enough and there was a need for more excitement. The narrator, Jan Cramer, continues to deliver great performances and I’ll always listen to this series because of her. At times it seemed to be too much but there’s a wonderful payoff at the end that sneaked up on me, along with some really special and sensitive moments. This is great storytelling.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
What made this story even more of a nail biter is having the points of view of the abductors. It’s made clear very early on how dangerous and sadistic at least one was and he scared me silly. His tormenting of those children was close to unbearable so of course I couldn’t stop listening until the end. The dynamics between the parents and the team were just as anxiety ridden and Kim is almost at a breaking point.
It’s an outstanding story if you can take the nerve wracking suspense and fear for those children. There are other related issues going on, as if the abduction wasn’t enough and there was a need for more excitement. The narrator, Jan Cramer, continues to deliver great performances and I’ll always listen to this series because of her. At times it seemed to be too much but there’s a wonderful payoff at the end that sneaked up on me, along with some really special and sensitive moments. This is great storytelling.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
February 8, 2021
I started this series a few years ago and read the first two. I enjoyed both dark stories, and I am not sure why I haven't read anymore. I guess those new and shiny ARCs always got in the way. What a mistake that was. Now at 13 books in the series, the author and the series are still going strong. So this year, I have decided to challenge myself and catch up on this series.
A few years later, after this one is written, the plot is still original with two young girls' kidnapping. An intriguing and terrifying edge of your seat game begins for our twisted kidnapper. The families must bid for the release of their child, and only one will come home. It opens up the question of what a parent will do to save their child and explores if a parent would sacrifice a friend's child to save their own.
Lost Girls is a sharply written story with a well rounded main female character with strong characters who support her throughout the story. I love DI Kim Stone, who isn't that easy to warm up to! Her determination and no-nonsense attitude make her a prickly character; however, she is nicely balanced with a caring side to her. She has a vulnerable side to her that she hides from the people around her, and we start to get to know that side as we see bits of her past.
That ending had me grasping my kobo and clicking the pages as fast as I could as Kim races against time to try to save the girls. I loved the twists and turns that left me me surprised in the best way. I highly recommend this series.
A few years later, after this one is written, the plot is still original with two young girls' kidnapping. An intriguing and terrifying edge of your seat game begins for our twisted kidnapper. The families must bid for the release of their child, and only one will come home. It opens up the question of what a parent will do to save their child and explores if a parent would sacrifice a friend's child to save their own.
Lost Girls is a sharply written story with a well rounded main female character with strong characters who support her throughout the story. I love DI Kim Stone, who isn't that easy to warm up to! Her determination and no-nonsense attitude make her a prickly character; however, she is nicely balanced with a caring side to her. She has a vulnerable side to her that she hides from the people around her, and we start to get to know that side as we see bits of her past.
That ending had me grasping my kobo and clicking the pages as fast as I could as Kim races against time to try to save the girls. I loved the twists and turns that left me me surprised in the best way. I highly recommend this series.
October 28, 2015
Absolutely heart-stoppingly, heart-poundingly brilliant!!
Detective Inspector Kim Stone was shocked to be told she was heading the latest case – the abduction of two nine year old girls warranted higher than herself she thought; but it was the mother of one of the missing girls; a person from Kim’s long ago (and deeply buried) past who wanted Kim’s grim determination to bring back their girls.
Best friends Charlie and Amy had been taken from the local swim centre; the media and force black out was immediate and there was to be no deviation. With Kim and her small team setting up in a room of one of the homes, it meant they would be on the job 24/7. The only communication with the kidnapper was via text message – the terror had begun. But it was the second text message that threw Kim and her squad as well as the two families into chaos. Was it just a game to the kidnapper? And was there a link between this case and another thirteen months prior?
Determined to find Charlie and Amy, Kim realized the clock was ticking faster by the hour. She also realized the tenacious media couldn’t be held at bay for too much longer. Working day and night, with snatches of sleep to recharge the batteries, the squad worked as they had never done before. But bodies were turning up – and being linked to the case. Would the two best friends be found safe? Or would it be too late?
Wow! Just wow! What an amazing, gripping and thrilling read Lost Girls was! My heart was racing – pounding in fact; I couldn’t put the book down! #3 in the DI Kim Stone series, Lost Girls is the best yet in my opinion. Dark, intense, amazing, filled with fast paced action, Lost Girls is a heart-stopping ride! DI Kim Stone is a strong, determined and gritty character, but with flaws; she is great! I have no hesitation in recommending this novel very highly to all thriller lovers and can’t wait for #4 in the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
Detective Inspector Kim Stone was shocked to be told she was heading the latest case – the abduction of two nine year old girls warranted higher than herself she thought; but it was the mother of one of the missing girls; a person from Kim’s long ago (and deeply buried) past who wanted Kim’s grim determination to bring back their girls.
Best friends Charlie and Amy had been taken from the local swim centre; the media and force black out was immediate and there was to be no deviation. With Kim and her small team setting up in a room of one of the homes, it meant they would be on the job 24/7. The only communication with the kidnapper was via text message – the terror had begun. But it was the second text message that threw Kim and her squad as well as the two families into chaos. Was it just a game to the kidnapper? And was there a link between this case and another thirteen months prior?
Determined to find Charlie and Amy, Kim realized the clock was ticking faster by the hour. She also realized the tenacious media couldn’t be held at bay for too much longer. Working day and night, with snatches of sleep to recharge the batteries, the squad worked as they had never done before. But bodies were turning up – and being linked to the case. Would the two best friends be found safe? Or would it be too late?
Wow! Just wow! What an amazing, gripping and thrilling read Lost Girls was! My heart was racing – pounding in fact; I couldn’t put the book down! #3 in the DI Kim Stone series, Lost Girls is the best yet in my opinion. Dark, intense, amazing, filled with fast paced action, Lost Girls is a heart-stopping ride! DI Kim Stone is a strong, determined and gritty character, but with flaws; she is great! I have no hesitation in recommending this novel very highly to all thriller lovers and can’t wait for #4 in the series.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my copy to read and review.
November 6, 2015
5 +++++ Explosive Stars
How much do you love your daughter? Measure it in pounds. Healthy competition brings out the best in people. The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. These are the rules and they will not change. I will be in touch. Make no mistake. One child will die.
Two children are kidnapped. Amy and Charlie are best friends, their parents are best friends.
An old acquaintance of Kim Stone... Karen who just happens to be the mother of one of the missing girls, has asked for Kim to lead the investigation, feeling she will be the only one capable of bringing her daughter and her friend home.
‘So you want me to head this case because I got you a new pair of trainers?’ ‘No, Kim. I want you to head this case because I know that if you decide to help us, I will see my daughter again.’
As the ransom demands are made, which parent will crack first?.... Kim Stone knows that time is running out to find the girls and as the pressure builds, is Kim beginning to lose control?
Charlie and Amy their ordeal was heartbreaking...
I pray that Mummy and Daddy will find us soon and take us home and keep us warm. And please God stop Amy from scratching her arms. Amen.
This was another exciting edge of the seat nail biting thriller. At the end of each chapter I was..
And it kept me hooked till the last page.You know that feeling you can't wait to get to the end but you don't want it to ever finish.
This is up there with some of the best thrillers I've read and certainly my favourite this year. Its the 3rd book in the DI Kim Stone Series and Angela Marsons in my opinion is going from strength to strength....
This classy writer makes the plot exciting, fresh and realistic and the readers are continuing to get to know the real Kim Stone.....
Now for me DI Kim Stone is the best female detective character I've come across. Her snarky humour and one liners are the best. You might find her cold but underneath that frosty exterior is a woman who does feel and she will do everything she can to bring these girls home...
If you haven't yet read any of Angela Marsons and the DI Kim Stone series I recommend you give them a try.
Silent Scream
Evil Games
Lost Girls
You won't be disappointed..
Note to Author!!! Please keep this series going.
***ARC provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
How much do you love your daughter? Measure it in pounds. Healthy competition brings out the best in people. The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. These are the rules and they will not change. I will be in touch. Make no mistake. One child will die.
Two children are kidnapped. Amy and Charlie are best friends, their parents are best friends.
An old acquaintance of Kim Stone... Karen who just happens to be the mother of one of the missing girls, has asked for Kim to lead the investigation, feeling she will be the only one capable of bringing her daughter and her friend home.
‘So you want me to head this case because I got you a new pair of trainers?’ ‘No, Kim. I want you to head this case because I know that if you decide to help us, I will see my daughter again.’
As the ransom demands are made, which parent will crack first?.... Kim Stone knows that time is running out to find the girls and as the pressure builds, is Kim beginning to lose control?
Charlie and Amy their ordeal was heartbreaking...
I pray that Mummy and Daddy will find us soon and take us home and keep us warm. And please God stop Amy from scratching her arms. Amen.
This was another exciting edge of the seat nail biting thriller. At the end of each chapter I was..
And it kept me hooked till the last page.You know that feeling you can't wait to get to the end but you don't want it to ever finish.
This is up there with some of the best thrillers I've read and certainly my favourite this year. Its the 3rd book in the DI Kim Stone Series and Angela Marsons in my opinion is going from strength to strength....
This classy writer makes the plot exciting, fresh and realistic and the readers are continuing to get to know the real Kim Stone.....
Now for me DI Kim Stone is the best female detective character I've come across. Her snarky humour and one liners are the best. You might find her cold but underneath that frosty exterior is a woman who does feel and she will do everything she can to bring these girls home...
If you haven't yet read any of Angela Marsons and the DI Kim Stone series I recommend you give them a try.
Silent Scream
Evil Games
Lost Girls
You won't be disappointed..
Note to Author!!! Please keep this series going.
***ARC provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
November 9, 2015
This is another wonderful Kim Stone book. I love the repartee between Kim and Bryant, and it was a nice counter to the seriousness inside the war room. I liked the addition of Matt Ward, the negotiator, and hope he has a future in this series.
I believe a kidnapping must be one of the most difficult crimes to investigate; there's not much that can be done when there are no witnesses and no forensics at the scene. The police, waiting for contact, are at the mercy of the abductors. I was curious as to why the parents' cell phones were not taken into evidence. So the investigation did not seem to me to be very intense.
The criminals, as expected, were despicable with a more physical than psychological presence. The scenes with the girls were written with great sensitivity. I wanted to step into the book and hug them. The relationships between the parents, and the subsequent cracks, are very believable. Eloise is a curiosity, perhaps to be explored in the next book?
I admit I was not as captivated with this book as the previous two, but it's still a very good and enjoyable book.
I believe a kidnapping must be one of the most difficult crimes to investigate; there's not much that can be done when there are no witnesses and no forensics at the scene. The police, waiting for contact, are at the mercy of the abductors. I was curious as to why the parents' cell phones were not taken into evidence. So the investigation did not seem to me to be very intense.
The criminals, as expected, were despicable with a more physical than psychological presence. The scenes with the girls were written with great sensitivity. I wanted to step into the book and hug them. The relationships between the parents, and the subsequent cracks, are very believable. Eloise is a curiosity, perhaps to be explored in the next book?
I admit I was not as captivated with this book as the previous two, but it's still a very good and enjoyable book.
November 13, 2015
The 3rd book in the D.I. Kim Stone series by the excellent Angela Marsons.
I was introduced to this series when they first came out and was amazed at the exceptionally high standard of writing by a new writer. The books are packed full of excitement, twists and turns and show more than a touch of sensitivity and understanding when dealing with some of the dark subjects in the books.
Kim Stone is an excellent strong character, whose flaws and foibles allow the author plenty of opportunities to develop plots and sub plots even further. Angela Marson is very good at instantly capturing the readers interest and taking them on a roller coaster of a ride where emotions are put to the test and this book is no exception.
This book deals with the disappearance of two young girls. Their kidnapper is only prepared to let one go to the highest bidder with the promise that the other one will die. Dark, disturbing subject but handled extremely well by this amazing author.
The more I write this review, the more I am thinking I should have marked it even higher so don't be surprised if the 4 star rating suddenly becomes 5. If you have read any of the previous books in this series you will need no encouragement to read this novel, but if you have not yet read any of Angela Marson's books what are you waiting for. So many people seem to be saying similar things about this author and it must be only a matter of time before more is heard of her work.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying me with a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
I was introduced to this series when they first came out and was amazed at the exceptionally high standard of writing by a new writer. The books are packed full of excitement, twists and turns and show more than a touch of sensitivity and understanding when dealing with some of the dark subjects in the books.
Kim Stone is an excellent strong character, whose flaws and foibles allow the author plenty of opportunities to develop plots and sub plots even further. Angela Marson is very good at instantly capturing the readers interest and taking them on a roller coaster of a ride where emotions are put to the test and this book is no exception.
This book deals with the disappearance of two young girls. Their kidnapper is only prepared to let one go to the highest bidder with the promise that the other one will die. Dark, disturbing subject but handled extremely well by this amazing author.
The more I write this review, the more I am thinking I should have marked it even higher so don't be surprised if the 4 star rating suddenly becomes 5. If you have read any of the previous books in this series you will need no encouragement to read this novel, but if you have not yet read any of Angela Marson's books what are you waiting for. So many people seem to be saying similar things about this author and it must be only a matter of time before more is heard of her work.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying me with a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
August 7, 2016
I so love this author and series! Angela Marsons writes stories that pull you in, take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and then leaves you with a satisfaction of justice served, but a hunger for the next story.
Lost Girls is about a subject that terrifies all parents, the abduction of their child. This plot is even more twisted because the kidnappers always take two girls and tell the parents that the couple that pays the most will get their daughter back and the other daughter will be killed. This is the second time this crime has been committed, and now D.I. Kim Stone and her team are assigned to the case. The clock is ticking.
Ms. Marsons knows how to write an English police procedural that is also thrilling and suspenseful. The plot has many twists and turns. Kim Stone is a brilliant character that tugs at your heart, but don’t tell her, she wouldn’t like it. Her team is a group of varied and well written characters. The criminals are as well written as the main characters, which makes them all the more chilling.
If you haven’t read this series yet you are truly missing out on great books!
Lost Girls is about a subject that terrifies all parents, the abduction of their child. This plot is even more twisted because the kidnappers always take two girls and tell the parents that the couple that pays the most will get their daughter back and the other daughter will be killed. This is the second time this crime has been committed, and now D.I. Kim Stone and her team are assigned to the case. The clock is ticking.
Ms. Marsons knows how to write an English police procedural that is also thrilling and suspenseful. The plot has many twists and turns. Kim Stone is a brilliant character that tugs at your heart, but don’t tell her, she wouldn’t like it. Her team is a group of varied and well written characters. The criminals are as well written as the main characters, which makes them all the more chilling.
If you haven’t read this series yet you are truly missing out on great books!
August 1, 2019
4.5 stars I liked the set-up and how the tension was built up. The characters are alive and the plot was not what I expected (but that's probably just me :))
June 8, 2018
5 stars!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lost Girls is the 3rd book in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
When I started this, I had already read book 1, Silent Scream and book 2, Evil Games three weeks ago. So that’s 3 books by Angela Marsons in three weeks!!
I thought to myself, “Ginger, you’re going to burn yourself out on these books and characters. You might want to slow down.”
Guess what friends? It hasn’t happened and I’m seriously thinking about starting book 4 this month if I can!
That’s great writing, characterization and suspense!!
Marsons is at the top of the pack with this crime detective series and I'm going to try to read more of her books this year. She’s that good!
Okay back to the book. I get a bit excited and side tracked. :)
Lost Girls starts out with two girls going missing. It turns out they are kidnapped and the kidnapping case is surprisingly similar to a case of two missing girls from the year before and only one comes back.
I wanted to bite my nails throughout this whole book as D.I. Stone and crew are working out on who the kidnappers are, all the dead bodies that keep piling up and if they can save these two precious nine-year-olds.
The suspects are terrible and scary. You actually get a few POV chapters with the suspects.
Marsons sure knows how to write evil well! Holy moly!
Besides riding the roller coaster with D.I. Stone on saving the girls, dark secrets come out about the families of the two kidnapped girls. Excellent suspense, just enough drama to make it addicting and excellent characters once again!
I’m so glad I finally read this series! I’m so looking forward to starting the next book!
Lost Girls is the 3rd book in the D.I. Kim Stone series.
When I started this, I had already read book 1, Silent Scream and book 2, Evil Games three weeks ago. So that’s 3 books by Angela Marsons in three weeks!!
I thought to myself, “Ginger, you’re going to burn yourself out on these books and characters. You might want to slow down.”
Guess what friends? It hasn’t happened and I’m seriously thinking about starting book 4 this month if I can!
That’s great writing, characterization and suspense!!
Marsons is at the top of the pack with this crime detective series and I'm going to try to read more of her books this year. She’s that good!
Okay back to the book. I get a bit excited and side tracked. :)
Lost Girls starts out with two girls going missing. It turns out they are kidnapped and the kidnapping case is surprisingly similar to a case of two missing girls from the year before and only one comes back.
I wanted to bite my nails throughout this whole book as D.I. Stone and crew are working out on who the kidnappers are, all the dead bodies that keep piling up and if they can save these two precious nine-year-olds.
The suspects are terrible and scary. You actually get a few POV chapters with the suspects.
Marsons sure knows how to write evil well! Holy moly!
Besides riding the roller coaster with D.I. Stone on saving the girls, dark secrets come out about the families of the two kidnapped girls. Excellent suspense, just enough drama to make it addicting and excellent characters once again!
I’m so glad I finally read this series! I’m so looking forward to starting the next book!
November 11, 2015
Wow what a horrible and horrendous experience these parents are facing regarding their gorgeous young girls. How must they feel knowing that one child can be saved but not the other, all due to which family can pay the most in ransom. What price do you put on a life?, not just any life but that of your child's? Fantastic book , I found this story absolutely captivating. I already know Angela's books are great but this one moves them up a level. I did not want this to finish as I enjoyed it so much. Highly recommended.
January 13, 2016
Wow, what an absolute cracker of a thriller!
Every parents worst nightmare is realised in this tale of two little girls abducted from a leisure centre after swimming training. One of the mothers, an ex acquaintance of DI Kim Stone and insists on her leading the case, even though she feels out of her depth. Kim knows she is working against the clock, especially when she learns a similar case occurred before and only one girl survived. The two families are faced off against each other as they fight for their daughter to survive. Family secrets are uncovered as the tension rises and time starts to run out.
Marsons keeps the suspense high right to the end, culminating in a final unexpected twist. Definitely one of the best thrillers of the year.
With many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ecopy to read and review.
April 15, 2017
Riveting, Supsensful, Tense!!
If you decide to read this book, and I highly recommend it, you might want to clear your calendar because once you pick it up it is hard to put down. Each book in the series seems to get better. This is the third book in the Detective Kim Stone series. If you haven't read any of the books in this series I recommend starting with Silent Scream as the characters develop in each book.
I would imagine that one of the most frightening things for a parent would be if a child goes missing. The author manages to ratchet this up a notch. What if your child and her best friend have both been kidnapped? And the kidnappers send you and the parents of your child's best friend text messages. The return of you child is being auctioned off. Who ever bids the highest ransom amount will get their child back. If yours is the low bid your child will not be coming back. It happened before and now it appears to be happening again. That is the situation the parents of nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy find themselves in. Before this nightmare started they had all been friends. Now they are pitted against each other for the safe return of their child. Only one will be coming back.
D.I. Kim Stone normally does not work on kidnapping cases but she is assigned as the lead investigator in this one. The mother of one of the victims knew Kim from when they were children and in foster care and she wants Kim working on it. Kim brings in her team and is determined to bring both girls back at any cost. She is driven and relentless ... especially it seems where children are the victims. If you meet Kim Stone you would not describe her as warm or a people person. She does not make friends easily. Does not even seem to care to want to. In an earlier novel she adopted a dog and that seems to be her closest friend. But a close second may be a member of her team, Bryant, although she will never admit that to anyone. Outwardly Kim is more likely to get in your face to let you know her opinion. Underneath though I think she really cares, just doesn't like to show it. Her personality seems to stem back to her own childhood ... her mother, her brother, foster care.
Over the years I have read many different series ... Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, Nero Wolfe and Kim Stone is one of my current favorites and belongs right there at the top. When you can't put the book down and when you find that you start to feel like you know the characters then you know you have found a great book. And that is what you have here.
If you decide to read this book, and I highly recommend it, you might want to clear your calendar because once you pick it up it is hard to put down. Each book in the series seems to get better. This is the third book in the Detective Kim Stone series. If you haven't read any of the books in this series I recommend starting with Silent Scream as the characters develop in each book.
I would imagine that one of the most frightening things for a parent would be if a child goes missing. The author manages to ratchet this up a notch. What if your child and her best friend have both been kidnapped? And the kidnappers send you and the parents of your child's best friend text messages. The return of you child is being auctioned off. Who ever bids the highest ransom amount will get their child back. If yours is the low bid your child will not be coming back. It happened before and now it appears to be happening again. That is the situation the parents of nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy find themselves in. Before this nightmare started they had all been friends. Now they are pitted against each other for the safe return of their child. Only one will be coming back.
D.I. Kim Stone normally does not work on kidnapping cases but she is assigned as the lead investigator in this one. The mother of one of the victims knew Kim from when they were children and in foster care and she wants Kim working on it. Kim brings in her team and is determined to bring both girls back at any cost. She is driven and relentless ... especially it seems where children are the victims. If you meet Kim Stone you would not describe her as warm or a people person. She does not make friends easily. Does not even seem to care to want to. In an earlier novel she adopted a dog and that seems to be her closest friend. But a close second may be a member of her team, Bryant, although she will never admit that to anyone. Outwardly Kim is more likely to get in your face to let you know her opinion. Underneath though I think she really cares, just doesn't like to show it. Her personality seems to stem back to her own childhood ... her mother, her brother, foster care.
Over the years I have read many different series ... Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, Nero Wolfe and Kim Stone is one of my current favorites and belongs right there at the top. When you can't put the book down and when you find that you start to feel like you know the characters then you know you have found a great book. And that is what you have here.
May 1, 2016
Thank you to Net Galley, Bookouture and my friend Angela Marsons for an ARC copy of the 3rd DI Kim Stone book.
Another great book from Angela Marsons, and the best one so far.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families’ past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone’s child pay the ultimate price?
So why is this the best book in the series so far?
Well it is chilling, shocking, gripping, tense, fast paced and a great detail to the characters of Kim and especially her team and to me especially Bryant and his little quite talks with Kim Stone, his great calming effect on the tough exterior of DI Kim Stone.
Angela Marsons here has a whole assortment of characters from the couples, to the thoroughly nasty "baddies", the extra members of the team on this case, but the great communications between Kim and the new members are great too.
Keeps you thinking all the way, a great paced story.
As mentioned the best so far so an easy five stars.
Now all I can say is thank you, as I now have "Play Dead", which I have started to read !
Another great book from Angela Marsons, and the best one so far.
Two girls go missing. Only one will return.
The couple that offers the highest amount will see their daughter again. The losing couple will not. Make no mistake. One child will die.
When nine-year-old best friends Charlie and Amy disappear, two families are plunged into a living nightmare. A text message confirms the unthinkable; that the girls are the victims of a terrifying kidnapping.
And when a second text message pits the two families against each other for the life of their children, the clock starts ticking for D.I. Kim Stone and the squad.
Seemingly outwitted at every turn, as they uncover a trail of bodies, Stone realises that these ruthless killers might be the most deadly she has ever faced. And that their chances of bringing the girls home alive, are getting smaller by the hour…
Untangling a dark web of secrets from the families’ past might hold the key to solving this case. But can Kim stay alive long enough to do so? Or will someone’s child pay the ultimate price?
So why is this the best book in the series so far?
Well it is chilling, shocking, gripping, tense, fast paced and a great detail to the characters of Kim and especially her team and to me especially Bryant and his little quite talks with Kim Stone, his great calming effect on the tough exterior of DI Kim Stone.
Angela Marsons here has a whole assortment of characters from the couples, to the thoroughly nasty "baddies", the extra members of the team on this case, but the great communications between Kim and the new members are great too.
Keeps you thinking all the way, a great paced story.
As mentioned the best so far so an easy five stars.
Now all I can say is thank you, as I now have "Play Dead", which I have started to read !
February 16, 2016
And she did it again!!! Another solid 5 star rating for Angela Marson's DI Kim Stone series, which somehow just keeps getting better and better with each book....
If you haven't read this series yet, you are really missing out on some great writing. There is so much to love here! I think what I like the most about Marson's writing style is that she doesn't take liberties with shock value plot lines and over the top characters. With each book, there is one main plot and 1 or 2 sub plots weaved together beautifully and executed in a way that just feels so real. And the storylines are fresh, the subject matter brand new, which really highlights the author's creativity.
And speaking of creativity, what a cast of characters! There is the fearless leader DI Kim Stone, who is smart and determined, with a prickly exterior but soft inside.
She has a loyal team of hardworking detectives, each with their own lovable qualities that make them feel like family. But it's with the antagonist's that she really shines...she has created some really bad, evil and downright nasty characters. With chapters specifically dedicated to the bad guys, you are allowed to get inside their heads, read how they think, how they feel, and experience their cray cray. It's pretty incredible!
This is by far the best police procedural series I have ever read, and I can't wait for book 4. I highly recommend to all crime lovers-you won't be disappointed!
ARC provided by NetGalley
If you haven't read this series yet, you are really missing out on some great writing. There is so much to love here! I think what I like the most about Marson's writing style is that she doesn't take liberties with shock value plot lines and over the top characters. With each book, there is one main plot and 1 or 2 sub plots weaved together beautifully and executed in a way that just feels so real. And the storylines are fresh, the subject matter brand new, which really highlights the author's creativity.
And speaking of creativity, what a cast of characters! There is the fearless leader DI Kim Stone, who is smart and determined, with a prickly exterior but soft inside.
She has a loyal team of hardworking detectives, each with their own lovable qualities that make them feel like family. But it's with the antagonist's that she really shines...she has created some really bad, evil and downright nasty characters. With chapters specifically dedicated to the bad guys, you are allowed to get inside their heads, read how they think, how they feel, and experience their cray cray. It's pretty incredible!
This is by far the best police procedural series I have ever read, and I can't wait for book 4. I highly recommend to all crime lovers-you won't be disappointed!
ARC provided by NetGalley
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