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Deadly When Disturbed
When Dara Banks, Rock Canyon's leading Realtor, searches for an assistant, finding someone as resourceful as Meryl "Merry" Rafter seems too good to be true. So good in fact, she neglects to run a reference check. Bad move. Before she knows it, Merry, a former “actress” trying to be “helpful,” has insinuated herself into Dara’s business, family, and charity, and may be the only person saving her from prison. Dara becomes suspicious and begins snooping into Merry’s past. Feeling cornered, Merry reciprocates by launching an investigation of her own and realizes—too late—that she may have picked the wrong mark to con. These women’s unsettling discoveries, and their desperate efforts to safeguard their skeleton-filled closets and fragile self-images, lead to an explosive confrontation certain to destroy the lives of everyone in their midst.
- GenresThriller
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 14, 2025
4 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
D.M. Barr
9 books308 followersWHO IS D.M. BARR?
By day, a mild-mannered salesperson, wife, mother, rescuer of senior shelter dogs, happily living just north of New York City. By night, an author of suspense, satire, and sweet romance.
My background includes stints in travel marketing, travel journalism, meeting planning, public relations and real estate. I was, for a long and happy time, an award-winning magazine writer and editor. Then kids happened. And I needed to actually make money. Now they're off doing whatever it is they do (of which I have no idea since they won't friend me on Facebook) and I can spend my spare time weaving tales of debauchery and whatever else tickles my fancy.
The main thing to remember about my work is that I am NOT one of my characters. For example, as a real estate broker, I've never played Bondage Bingo in one of my empty listings or offed one of my problem clients.
But that's not to say I haven't wanted to...
By day, a mild-mannered salesperson, wife, mother, rescuer of senior shelter dogs, happily living just north of New York City. By night, an author of suspense, satire, and sweet romance.
My background includes stints in travel marketing, travel journalism, meeting planning, public relations and real estate. I was, for a long and happy time, an award-winning magazine writer and editor. Then kids happened. And I needed to actually make money. Now they're off doing whatever it is they do (of which I have no idea since they won't friend me on Facebook) and I can spend my spare time weaving tales of debauchery and whatever else tickles my fancy.
The main thing to remember about my work is that I am NOT one of my characters. For example, as a real estate broker, I've never played Bondage Bingo in one of my empty listings or offed one of my problem clients.
But that's not to say I haven't wanted to...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
March 25, 2025
I definitely wanted to read more thriller and mystery this year, but unfortunately, this did not deliver on the genre front. 2.5 ⭐
Mostly, the book took on too much.
It took on too many improbable and low-occurrence situations and wanted to forcefully make them work together.
Maybe if 2 of these were removed it would have been better?
Too much was lost in technicalities and details that distracted from the main events.
This is supposed to be 2 friends. Yet I never saw the women be friends but maybe for a couple of pages.
Now, this will be a spoiler-filled review because it honestly grated on my nerves and any opinions I do have relate directly to spoilers.
- The Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) was obvious since the first chapter. Yet, it also too the lowest probabilities and made them work. As far we're concerned, Dara didn't go to therapy but in her childhood. There is no way she was able to control and converse and push back Celeste (her "deadly" alter) and scheme with her unless she had extensive therapy.
- Moreover, DID is disruptive to daily life even in the most functional of humans. Dara not only was able to control her alter, but the only thing side effect was "some" memory gaps.
- The DID and Celeste's nature were not particulraly hidden, to the extent I knew Celeste killed Brooke the second I heard Brooke was dead....
- The ending was unsatisfactory. Not only Dara didn't get away, but NO ONE knew the truth about Merry/Georgia. You're telling me I spent more than 50% of the book frustrated with the behaviour of the antagonist for her to be killed in 1 page and NO ONE knew about what she did? And then take down your supposed FMC, who btw is the most self-centered and annoying person in this book? And there were a lot of annoying people in this book.
I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
--
Pre-read:
Thank you to the author for contacting me and offering me an ARC of her book.
I am trying to read more thriller this year, and this feels right in that alley. 🤞🏻
Mostly, the book took on too much.
It took on too many improbable and low-occurrence situations and wanted to forcefully make them work together.
Maybe if 2 of these were removed it would have been better?
Too much was lost in technicalities and details that distracted from the main events.
This is supposed to be 2 friends. Yet I never saw the women be friends but maybe for a couple of pages.
Now, this will be a spoiler-filled review because it honestly grated on my nerves and any opinions I do have relate directly to spoilers.
- The Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) was obvious since the first chapter. Yet, it also too the lowest probabilities and made them work. As far we're concerned, Dara didn't go to therapy but in her childhood. There is no way she was able to control and converse and push back Celeste (her "deadly" alter) and scheme with her unless she had extensive therapy.
- Moreover, DID is disruptive to daily life even in the most functional of humans. Dara not only was able to control her alter, but the only thing side effect was "some" memory gaps.
- The DID and Celeste's nature were not particulraly hidden, to the extent I knew Celeste killed Brooke the second I heard Brooke was dead....
- The ending was unsatisfactory. Not only Dara didn't get away, but NO ONE knew the truth about Merry/Georgia. You're telling me I spent more than 50% of the book frustrated with the behaviour of the antagonist for her to be killed in 1 page and NO ONE knew about what she did? And then take down your supposed FMC, who btw is the most self-centered and annoying person in this book? And there were a lot of annoying people in this book.
I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
--
Pre-read:
Thank you to the author for contacting me and offering me an ARC of her book.
I am trying to read more thriller this year, and this feels right in that alley. 🤞🏻
March 25, 2025
Thank you so much NetGalley for sharing the ARC with me! This was such a fun and exciting story. Deadly when Disturbed had me hooked from page one. The writing style, the twists and turns, the dark humor all made for a great experience. I thought I had the twist figured out but I was wrong ! This felt like a Jesse Q. Sutanto book in the best way and I was eating it up !! If you want a fun domestic thriller with unlikable characters this one is for you.
January 31, 2025
4.5
This was a thrilling domestic suspense that I really enjoyed. It was my 1st by this author but will most certainly not be my last.
Dara Banks is Rock Canyon's leading realtor and also a philanthropist who runs an autism foundation. On top of that, she's a mother to two stepchildren and a wife to a husband who has essentially given up on life. She's trying to juggle everything by herself and is desperately in need of an assistant. When Meryl "Merry" Rafter walks in and applies for the job, Dara thinks she's a God send. Merry's extremely helpful and seems to get a handle on everything very quickly. But when Merry starts embedding herself into Dara's life, more than needed, Dara feels like Merry is trying to take over. Suspicions arise, and Dara starts to investigate into Merry's past. She really should have run a background check before she hired Merry. What secrets is Merry hiding? Can Dara find out the truth before it's too late? But Dara has secrets of her own that she is trying to keep hidden.
This book was full of drama and suspense that kept my full attention! It was twisty, and I seriously didn't know what to expect! The ending was a definite jaw dropper! I totally didn't see it coming! The characters were unlikable but in a good way. At first, I felt bad for Dara, but that quickly changed. The plot was engaging, and I was thoroughly invested. This was definitely a quick, fast-paced, entertaining, unputdownable read, and I would highly recommend adding to your tbr!
This was a thrilling domestic suspense that I really enjoyed. It was my 1st by this author but will most certainly not be my last.
Dara Banks is Rock Canyon's leading realtor and also a philanthropist who runs an autism foundation. On top of that, she's a mother to two stepchildren and a wife to a husband who has essentially given up on life. She's trying to juggle everything by herself and is desperately in need of an assistant. When Meryl "Merry" Rafter walks in and applies for the job, Dara thinks she's a God send. Merry's extremely helpful and seems to get a handle on everything very quickly. But when Merry starts embedding herself into Dara's life, more than needed, Dara feels like Merry is trying to take over. Suspicions arise, and Dara starts to investigate into Merry's past. She really should have run a background check before she hired Merry. What secrets is Merry hiding? Can Dara find out the truth before it's too late? But Dara has secrets of her own that she is trying to keep hidden.
This book was full of drama and suspense that kept my full attention! It was twisty, and I seriously didn't know what to expect! The ending was a definite jaw dropper! I totally didn't see it coming! The characters were unlikable but in a good way. At first, I felt bad for Dara, but that quickly changed. The plot was engaging, and I was thoroughly invested. This was definitely a quick, fast-paced, entertaining, unputdownable read, and I would highly recommend adding to your tbr!
January 22, 2025
I love the fabulous cover for Deadly When Disturbed by D M Barr. It definitely fits the story for this psychological thriller. D M Barr hooked me from the opening pages and never let me go.
Dara Banks needs an assistant and Merry just happens to be there. Merry quickly makes herself indispensable, even insinuating herself into Dara’s personal life. You know that saying, when things appear to good to be true, they usually are. Well…Dara would do well to heed the warning.
Menace and suspense underlay every page. I know something is coming, but I don’t know what and and I don’t know when. I feel a sense of suspense, that, at times, had me racing through the pages. Other times, I took a step back, because I wanted to savor the anticipation.
Sex, brains, and cash – that’s all you needed to get by.
Too bad Merry will find out how wrong she could be.
Like I said earlier, I was hooked from the opening pages. The characters were compelling and I was so easily misled by them, that I never saw the ending coming. I love when an author can get me so involved, convinced I know what’s happening, then springs the unknown on me, making me see how wrong I was.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
Dara Banks needs an assistant and Merry just happens to be there. Merry quickly makes herself indispensable, even insinuating herself into Dara’s personal life. You know that saying, when things appear to good to be true, they usually are. Well…Dara would do well to heed the warning.
Menace and suspense underlay every page. I know something is coming, but I don’t know what and and I don’t know when. I feel a sense of suspense, that, at times, had me racing through the pages. Other times, I took a step back, because I wanted to savor the anticipation.
Sex, brains, and cash – that’s all you needed to get by.
Too bad Merry will find out how wrong she could be.
Like I said earlier, I was hooked from the opening pages. The characters were compelling and I was so easily misled by them, that I never saw the ending coming. I love when an author can get me so involved, convinced I know what’s happening, then springs the unknown on me, making me see how wrong I was.
See more at http://www.fundinmental.com
April 6, 2025
Deadly When Disturbed by D.M. Barr
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is an excellent domestic and suspenseful thriller! It’s loaded with twists and turns and lots of suspense and drama!
The story focuses on Dara, who is a top Realtor and also runs an autism charity foundation. She is looking for an assistant to help her at work, and when Merry appears, she seems amazing! But before long, Merry has overstepped her work relationship and pushed her way into Dara’s personal family life.
I really enjoyed this fast paced book from beginning until the end! I found it intense and entertaining! The book is full of back stories and pieces that all pull together, so there’s never a dull moment!
It’s my first read from this author and it is very well written. I’ll be looking to read more!
*It’s out now and I highly recommend giving it a read!*
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is an excellent domestic and suspenseful thriller! It’s loaded with twists and turns and lots of suspense and drama!
The story focuses on Dara, who is a top Realtor and also runs an autism charity foundation. She is looking for an assistant to help her at work, and when Merry appears, she seems amazing! But before long, Merry has overstepped her work relationship and pushed her way into Dara’s personal family life.
I really enjoyed this fast paced book from beginning until the end! I found it intense and entertaining! The book is full of back stories and pieces that all pull together, so there’s never a dull moment!
It’s my first read from this author and it is very well written. I’ll be looking to read more!
*It’s out now and I highly recommend giving it a read!*
January 18, 2025
Fantastically twisty domestic thriller!
Desperate for help, super-realtor Dara Banks impulsively hires Merry Rafter to fill the position of her assistant, even though there’s just something “off” about the woman and her slim resume. What with her disabled husband sinking deeper and deeper into depression since his accident, a teenage stepson withdrawing from the family and leaning more toward undesirable companions, and a young stepdaughter with autism, Dara has her hands full; she’s stressed and certainly doesn’t have time to vet the woman’s past. But happily, Merry proves to be a quick study, a willing worker, and amazingly resourceful, even if she tends to sing her own praises a little too much. As she becomes indispensable at the office, her helpfulness begins to extend to the Banks’s household, with her winning over each one of the family members with elaborate and studied measures. When Merry copies Dara’s hairstyle and color and always seems to be taking her place at events or with clients, Dara realizes Merry’s real goal may be to take over her entire life.
Deadly When Disturbed is a twisty new domestic thriller by author D.M. Barr, and it kept me on the edge of my seat from its shocking opening to its surprising, gasp-inducing resolution. With its clever characters and cunning, complex plot, this is one heck of a page-turner!The story unfolds from two points of view, Dara’s and, eventually, Merry’s, so readers get the inside track on what both of these women are thinking. From the start, Dara refers to “Celeste,” who is her psychological inner voice, guardian, and protector, and, at times, the one who is actually calling the shots. However, Dara was such a sympathetic character that I tended to forget about “Celeste” until Dara brought her up. Dara stepped into her marriage with Jason to help him after a work accident damaged his hands beyond use. She’s also the guiding light for a successful children’s autism non-profit in honor of her stepdaughter and devotes any free time she has to fundraising and volunteer work. She’s the top-producing realtor in her area for a good reason, though, as she’s absolutely ruthless in her dealings with buyers and sellers alike, with “Celeste” often pulling the strings.
Merry Rafter is an odd character, and Dara is right when she senses something is “off” with her. She wears designer clothes, but they’re all either too tight, too short, or too low-cut, and she chooses to accessorize with gaudy or inappropriate baubles. Merry takes on any task, nothing is too menial, as she ingratiates her way into Dara’s life. But her background is a little murky until Dara starts looking into it, already regretful she didn’t do her due diligence.The plot is fast-paced and complex, with Merry always several moves ahead of Dara as she manipulates Dara’s and her family’s perception of what she’s up to. When Dara begins to question Merry’s motives and actions, her research into the other woman’s background reveals surprise after surprise. However, the women have a lot in common, and it is the way they choose to deal with their pasts that differentiates the two. The story becomes a race between the two to see who will come out on top.
I recommend DEADLY WHEN DISTURBED to readers of domestic or psychological thrillers.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
February 10, 2025
In "Deadly When Disturbed," D.M. Barr delivers a suspenseful story that mixes drama and mystery in the seemingly perfect community of Rock Canyon.
The plot centers around Dara Banks, a successful realtor who faces unexpected challenges when she hires Meryl "Merry" Rafter as her assistant. Merry appears to be the ideal candidate, but her secretive past and Dara's negligence in doing a background check lead to deceit and turmoil.
Dara is depicted as a driven and hardworking woman who has earned her success in the real estate industry. However, her life becomes complicated when Merry enters the picture. Merry is a complex character with hidden intentions, keeping readers guessing about her true motives. Their relationship adds tension to the narrative, forcing both women to confront their personal secrets and weaknesses.
The atmosphere in "Deadly When Disturbed" is ominous and filled with anticipation. Barr creates suspense through vivid descriptions of Rock Canyon’s beautiful setting contrasted against the dark themes of betrayal and deception. Readers can sense the characters' emotional struggles, including Dara’s anxiety about her career and Merry’s desperation to maintain her facade.
Barr's writing style is easy to follow, drawing readers into the story with relatable characters and engaging dialogue. Themes like trust, ambition, and protecting one’s image resonate throughout the book, challenging readers to consider their own values and ethical limits.
While the plot is captivating, certain aspects could be further developed. Some secondary characters' motivations are unclear, and the climactic resolution may feel rushed compared to the earlier, slow-burning suspense.
Nonetheless, "Deadly When Disturbed" offers an intriguing mix of psychological tension and character growth that will keep readers invested in Dara and Merry’s fates as they navigate a treacherous path of lies and revelations.
The plot centers around Dara Banks, a successful realtor who faces unexpected challenges when she hires Meryl "Merry" Rafter as her assistant. Merry appears to be the ideal candidate, but her secretive past and Dara's negligence in doing a background check lead to deceit and turmoil.
Dara is depicted as a driven and hardworking woman who has earned her success in the real estate industry. However, her life becomes complicated when Merry enters the picture. Merry is a complex character with hidden intentions, keeping readers guessing about her true motives. Their relationship adds tension to the narrative, forcing both women to confront their personal secrets and weaknesses.
The atmosphere in "Deadly When Disturbed" is ominous and filled with anticipation. Barr creates suspense through vivid descriptions of Rock Canyon’s beautiful setting contrasted against the dark themes of betrayal and deception. Readers can sense the characters' emotional struggles, including Dara’s anxiety about her career and Merry’s desperation to maintain her facade.
Barr's writing style is easy to follow, drawing readers into the story with relatable characters and engaging dialogue. Themes like trust, ambition, and protecting one’s image resonate throughout the book, challenging readers to consider their own values and ethical limits.
While the plot is captivating, certain aspects could be further developed. Some secondary characters' motivations are unclear, and the climactic resolution may feel rushed compared to the earlier, slow-burning suspense.
Nonetheless, "Deadly When Disturbed" offers an intriguing mix of psychological tension and character growth that will keep readers invested in Dara and Merry’s fates as they navigate a treacherous path of lies and revelations.
January 29, 2025
The suspense in this book was next level page turning. It’s a thrilling read that takes the reader and main character on a sleuthing journey that none of the other characters are privy to. I had a sense of determination to silently urge the main character to make the right decisions and find the right clues, and trust no one! Except there were definitely moments when I found myself screaming out loud at the book “TELL SOMEONE!!!” or “DON’T DO THAT!”
The way the story is written, you are made aware pretty early on that things aren’t what they seem and it eventually becomes clear that shady things are going on behind the scenes of a high society family that’s barely holding it together. We all know that, in fiction, when things are too good to be true, they usually aren’t. It’s the thrill of what’s going to happen next and how are we (the reader and main character together) going to thwart this person/people and come out victorious, that keeps the pages turning fast!
There was a subplot that sounded pretty important when introduced, but never seemed to get the spotlight until it was called upon for a twist and I think it could have been highlighted so much more than it was. It was sometimes confusing as I felt like this seemingly important detail was often forgotten and didn’t make sense with the rest of the story. It eventually is made clear, but I would have loved more of it throughout the whole story.
There were also a couple of moments where I felt the main character lacked emotion during situations that should have been extremely emotional, and it caused me to pull away from her. I can see how that may have been intentional after finishing the book and knowing what I know now, but at the time, it didn’t feel intentional it felt like a disconnect. The ending was like the emotional equivalent of a high-speed chase, everything happening so fast, and you’re just along for the bumpy ride, and then it was over. All the secrets were out on the table, your whole world had just been shaken up, and that’s it, book’s over. I wanted closure, I wanted a slower let down, I needed a moment to take a breath and recover from the tumult.
Overall, it was very interesting, thrilling, and at times frustrating (because I was so invested), book! Highly recommend.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this virtual book tour, Partners In Crime Tours
The way the story is written, you are made aware pretty early on that things aren’t what they seem and it eventually becomes clear that shady things are going on behind the scenes of a high society family that’s barely holding it together. We all know that, in fiction, when things are too good to be true, they usually aren’t. It’s the thrill of what’s going to happen next and how are we (the reader and main character together) going to thwart this person/people and come out victorious, that keeps the pages turning fast!
There was a subplot that sounded pretty important when introduced, but never seemed to get the spotlight until it was called upon for a twist and I think it could have been highlighted so much more than it was. It was sometimes confusing as I felt like this seemingly important detail was often forgotten and didn’t make sense with the rest of the story. It eventually is made clear, but I would have loved more of it throughout the whole story.
There were also a couple of moments where I felt the main character lacked emotion during situations that should have been extremely emotional, and it caused me to pull away from her. I can see how that may have been intentional after finishing the book and knowing what I know now, but at the time, it didn’t feel intentional it felt like a disconnect. The ending was like the emotional equivalent of a high-speed chase, everything happening so fast, and you’re just along for the bumpy ride, and then it was over. All the secrets were out on the table, your whole world had just been shaken up, and that’s it, book’s over. I wanted closure, I wanted a slower let down, I needed a moment to take a breath and recover from the tumult.
Overall, it was very interesting, thrilling, and at times frustrating (because I was so invested), book! Highly recommend.
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this virtual book tour, Partners In Crime Tours
March 2, 2025
✨ A Gripping Thriller Packed with Secrets, Betrayal, and Unrelenting Suspense ✨
Deadly When Disturbed begins as an intriguing story of Dara Banks, a woman whose perfect life is suddenly upended when Merry bursts into her world, attempting to steal everything she holds dear, including her family. Desperate to protect what’s hers, Dara starts digging for the truth, only to find herself entangled in an even darker and more dangerous conspiracy.
The first few pages build the tension, carefully establishing the characters and their relationships, but as the story unfolds, WOW! I never expected it to be this gripping. The plot twists, shocking character revelations, and intricate connections between them all left me absolutely stunned. And that ending? Completely satisfying, justice was served in the best way possible.
If you love psychological thrillers packed with secrets, suspense, and jaw-dropping twists, I highly recommend this book. It’s definitely worth your time!
A huge thanks to D.M. Barr for sending this book my way in exchange for an honest review.
✨WHAT I LIKED:
📌 Dara’s fierce protectiveness over her family
📌 Dara’s shocking character revelation
📌 Celeste’s unexpected role in the story
📌 Justice being served in the end
✨TROPES:
📌 Strong Female Protagonist
📌 Psychological Manipulation
📌 Revenge & Justice
📌 Hidden Secrets
📌 No Spice
Deadly When Disturbed begins as an intriguing story of Dara Banks, a woman whose perfect life is suddenly upended when Merry bursts into her world, attempting to steal everything she holds dear, including her family. Desperate to protect what’s hers, Dara starts digging for the truth, only to find herself entangled in an even darker and more dangerous conspiracy.
The first few pages build the tension, carefully establishing the characters and their relationships, but as the story unfolds, WOW! I never expected it to be this gripping. The plot twists, shocking character revelations, and intricate connections between them all left me absolutely stunned. And that ending? Completely satisfying, justice was served in the best way possible.
If you love psychological thrillers packed with secrets, suspense, and jaw-dropping twists, I highly recommend this book. It’s definitely worth your time!
A huge thanks to D.M. Barr for sending this book my way in exchange for an honest review.
✨WHAT I LIKED:
📌 Dara’s fierce protectiveness over her family
📌 Dara’s shocking character revelation
📌 Celeste’s unexpected role in the story
📌 Justice being served in the end
✨TROPES:
📌 Strong Female Protagonist
📌 Psychological Manipulation
📌 Revenge & Justice
📌 Hidden Secrets
📌 No Spice
July 24, 2025
Deadly When Disturbed is a psychological thriller that will live forever in my head. This book is full of twists and turns that I did not expect or see coming, and it was so hard to put down. It's a story about Dara, who is married with two stepchildren, and she is a real estate agent. She is also looking for help and in comes Meryl "Merry" Rafter who becomes the perfect assistant. That is until Merry starts putting herself into Daras personal life and wants more than Dara is expecting. The drama in this book is so good, and it keeps you guessing. The ending, though, will leave you open mouth, muttering what the crude and show you that all your guesses were wrong. I absolutely loved this book, and it left me shocked at what I just read.
March 28, 2025
This book was sent to me by the author, and it is not something I would usually pick out for myself- HOWEVER
The book was very thrilling, twisty and made me ‘what the f’ several times. Although a thriller/mystery, the writing style was witty and made me laugh out loud on occasion. There was references in there that made me giggle and highlighted the writers sense of humour and lightened the tone of the book just a tad.
You are absolutely going to get invested in both the FMCs, the thought provoking plot was incredibly addictive, and the ending? You’ll just have to pick it up for yourself to find out. Sheesh.
The book was very thrilling, twisty and made me ‘what the f’ several times. Although a thriller/mystery, the writing style was witty and made me laugh out loud on occasion. There was references in there that made me giggle and highlighted the writers sense of humour and lightened the tone of the book just a tad.
You are absolutely going to get invested in both the FMCs, the thought provoking plot was incredibly addictive, and the ending? You’ll just have to pick it up for yourself to find out. Sheesh.
January 15, 2025
MY THOUGHTS -
Oh my gosh this book was so good! I have read a few by this author and this is definitely her best one yet!
As I started reading more and more of all the creepy details, this mind blowing book became un-put-down-able. The more I read, the more I wanted/needed to read! It just gets better, and better, and better as you read. One mind blowing detail after another!
The characters - so unbelievable that they were believable! Wicked, crafty, dark, secretive, twisted ... evil. Who will win? Can one out smart the other?
A few shocking reveals. A few maybe not so shocking. But... just wait! Totally worth the read!
A quick, fun, "disturbing", and such an enjoyable must read!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
Oh my gosh this book was so good! I have read a few by this author and this is definitely her best one yet!
As I started reading more and more of all the creepy details, this mind blowing book became un-put-down-able. The more I read, the more I wanted/needed to read! It just gets better, and better, and better as you read. One mind blowing detail after another!
The characters - so unbelievable that they were believable! Wicked, crafty, dark, secretive, twisted ... evil. Who will win? Can one out smart the other?
A few shocking reveals. A few maybe not so shocking. But... just wait! Totally worth the read!
A quick, fun, "disturbing", and such an enjoyable must read!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
January 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! The characters were interesting and the plot followed so many paths which had some interesting twists and turns.
The ending threw me off - I love when you read a book and think you know what’s going on and then the switch got flipped! It elevates the front cover and what’s great about the ending is that there are subtle hints all the way through but I still didn’t see it coming. Well written by the author and thank you for asking me to read this great story.
The ending threw me off - I love when you read a book and think you know what’s going on and then the switch got flipped! It elevates the front cover and what’s great about the ending is that there are subtle hints all the way through but I still didn’t see it coming. Well written by the author and thank you for asking me to read this great story.
January 31, 2025
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found this to be an interesting read as I wasn't quite sure whether Dara, one of the main characters, was a reliable narrator. As an accomplished realtor, she doesn't conduct due diligence on her new recruit, Meryl Rafter, who she has appointed as her assistant. In no time at all, Meryl has invaded practically every aspect of Dara's life, which prompts Dara to dig into Meryl's past. As expected, Meryl, in turn, reciprocates.
It's disturbing but also sad. 4 and a half stars.
I found this to be an interesting read as I wasn't quite sure whether Dara, one of the main characters, was a reliable narrator. As an accomplished realtor, she doesn't conduct due diligence on her new recruit, Meryl Rafter, who she has appointed as her assistant. In no time at all, Meryl has invaded practically every aspect of Dara's life, which prompts Dara to dig into Meryl's past. As expected, Meryl, in turn, reciprocates.
It's disturbing but also sad. 4 and a half stars.
March 23, 2025
Started off slowly but picked up at the halfway mark. I did find myself skimming some pages. There was a twisty, unexpected ending.
I thought that the characters needed more development as to their motivations and that there were a lot of characters (there is a glossary of characters at the end of the book). A generally pleasant suspense read.
I thought that the characters needed more development as to their motivations and that there were a lot of characters (there is a glossary of characters at the end of the book). A generally pleasant suspense read.
February 10, 2025
Every time I thought I knew what was about to happen, there were events and information revealed that showed a twisted, darker side of the main characters that I did not expect. Unlike other psychological thrillers and mystery novels, I was unable to predict the ending. This book really kept me on my toes!
Thank you to NetGalley and Level Best Books for this complementary ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Level Best Books for this complementary ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 19, 2025
I love when a book keeps me guessing every little thing that happens, and this one did intrigue me. It was quite disturbing, and I definitely can’t say that the characters were lovable, but this was the perfect story about how imperfect life can be. Seeing how someone’s whole existence can be changed so much by something as simple as trusting the wrong person is eye opening. I also have to admit that this was one of the rare cases where I had so many theories of what will happens later on in the story and still haven’t guessed it correctly, which, now that I have finished the book, I understand was easy to guess. In any case, I enjoyed this story A LOT, and would definitely recommend it!!
February 20, 2025
5.0
*Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
End game, shrewd, deception…
Realtor / philanthropist / stepmother / wife Dara is busy with her realtor work, charity, and family.
Her newly hired assistant Merry appeared to be the right person at the right time. Dara’s husband / work accident victim declared Merry to be “a keeper.”
Not all is as it seems. What is the reality here? “If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
Caution and skepticism would have been good advice.
This is a doozy of a rapid-fire plot, psych thriller with all its twists. The initial hunt, the turning point, and the power shift. Right up to the shocking ending! Power imbalances….
There are two female main characters who are cunning and manipulative. One’s trinity is “power, money, and admiration.” Just who is the best at hiding her truth?
All the cliches: “spider and the fly,” “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” “snake in the grass” apply to this tale of deception. I enjoyed reading about two well-developed rogue characters!
GOOD GRIEF - WHAT AN ENDING!
P.S. Loved the inclusion of Aspinwall, PA ! It’s 25 miles from my house & where I shop and eat out!
*Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
End game, shrewd, deception…
Realtor / philanthropist / stepmother / wife Dara is busy with her realtor work, charity, and family.
Her newly hired assistant Merry appeared to be the right person at the right time. Dara’s husband / work accident victim declared Merry to be “a keeper.”
Not all is as it seems. What is the reality here? “If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.”
Caution and skepticism would have been good advice.
This is a doozy of a rapid-fire plot, psych thriller with all its twists. The initial hunt, the turning point, and the power shift. Right up to the shocking ending! Power imbalances….
There are two female main characters who are cunning and manipulative. One’s trinity is “power, money, and admiration.” Just who is the best at hiding her truth?
All the cliches: “spider and the fly,” “wolf in sheep’s clothing,” “snake in the grass” apply to this tale of deception. I enjoyed reading about two well-developed rogue characters!
GOOD GRIEF - WHAT AN ENDING!
P.S. Loved the inclusion of Aspinwall, PA ! It’s 25 miles from my house & where I shop and eat out!
January 26, 2025
I had mixed feelings about this one. Below are some highlights:
❌ I have to admit to having trouble following this story in the beginning. The mentioning of Celeste is confusing and while she is brought up periodically in the first half of the book, mentions of her pretty much disappear after that. This is a pity; I’m still not exactly sure who or what Celeste is, but she sounds like she’d add a lot to this book
❌ I also would have liked a little more background on Dara in general. Family dynamics play a big role in who Dara is, but we know very little about her husband and who he was before his accident and about their children. Even less is shared about her life with “the fosters.” More exposition in the beginning would have helped with character development.
❌ I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll be vague here: Dara’s best friend. More emotion is needed here. I felt like this was handled so causally; it was unrealistic.
❌ The end. For me, it didn’t follow the rest of the narrative. We spent the entire story believing one thing, with no indication of reality. The ending didn’t track.
Now for my positives.
✅ First there’s Merry. I hated this woman which, I suppose, means this was a good book. Merry’s manipulation made me feel like I was the one being targeted; I felt crazy reading about all the ways she was “appreciated” for taking over Dara’s responsibilities.
✅ While I struggled to get into this book in the beginning, once I made it halfway through, the plot picked up and I was eager to find out how Dara would best her annoying assistant. Dara becomes an investigator and her findings really move the plot along.
Overall, an interesting reading experience. I do believe more exposition in the beginning would have helped make this book less confusing and more enjoyable. Perhaps clues could have been provided there to help the ending track a little more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
❌ I have to admit to having trouble following this story in the beginning. The mentioning of Celeste is confusing and while she is brought up periodically in the first half of the book, mentions of her pretty much disappear after that. This is a pity; I’m still not exactly sure who or what Celeste is, but she sounds like she’d add a lot to this book
❌ I also would have liked a little more background on Dara in general. Family dynamics play a big role in who Dara is, but we know very little about her husband and who he was before his accident and about their children. Even less is shared about her life with “the fosters.” More exposition in the beginning would have helped with character development.
❌ I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll be vague here: Dara’s best friend. More emotion is needed here. I felt like this was handled so causally; it was unrealistic.
❌ The end. For me, it didn’t follow the rest of the narrative. We spent the entire story believing one thing, with no indication of reality. The ending didn’t track.
Now for my positives.
✅ First there’s Merry. I hated this woman which, I suppose, means this was a good book. Merry’s manipulation made me feel like I was the one being targeted; I felt crazy reading about all the ways she was “appreciated” for taking over Dara’s responsibilities.
✅ While I struggled to get into this book in the beginning, once I made it halfway through, the plot picked up and I was eager to find out how Dara would best her annoying assistant. Dara becomes an investigator and her findings really move the plot along.
Overall, an interesting reading experience. I do believe more exposition in the beginning would have helped make this book less confusing and more enjoyable. Perhaps clues could have been provided there to help the ending track a little more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 18, 2025
Deadly When Disturbed by D.M. Barr
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is my first ever ARC read & review. I was so honored to be asked if I would be interested in reading this book and sharing my review. So, I want to say thank you to the incredible author for entrusting me with this opportunity. ❤️
As for my review….
This book did NOT disappoint. This story had me intrigued and in suspense the entire time. The characters, the storyline, the plot….interconnected so perfectly. The ending was a literal jaw-dropping, on the edge of my seat moment and the twist in which the book took so quickly without any warning was one of the best I have read in a long time.
If you are looking for a book that keeps you guessing, makes it hard to even put the book down, and leaves you speechless at the end…well, my beloved readers, just go ahead and add this one to your stack. You’ll be so glad you did!
Themes: sexual assault, suicide, trauma, mental health, neurodivergence
-Kristy 📚☕️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is my first ever ARC read & review. I was so honored to be asked if I would be interested in reading this book and sharing my review. So, I want to say thank you to the incredible author for entrusting me with this opportunity. ❤️
As for my review….
This book did NOT disappoint. This story had me intrigued and in suspense the entire time. The characters, the storyline, the plot….interconnected so perfectly. The ending was a literal jaw-dropping, on the edge of my seat moment and the twist in which the book took so quickly without any warning was one of the best I have read in a long time.
If you are looking for a book that keeps you guessing, makes it hard to even put the book down, and leaves you speechless at the end…well, my beloved readers, just go ahead and add this one to your stack. You’ll be so glad you did!
Themes: sexual assault, suicide, trauma, mental health, neurodivergence
-Kristy 📚☕️
May 24, 2025
"Deadly When Disturbed" by D. M. Barr is a psychological thriller you won't easily forget. Thanks to a fast-paced, action-filled plot full of twists and two complex main characters with depth, I was hooked right from the beginning. It is clear quite soon that the new assistant Merry is too good to be true. She has an intense need for recognition and rapidly inserts herself in Dara's private life, making herself indispensible. It takes a while for Dara to become suspicious, although her best friend Brooke warns her to be careful. When Dara, after Brooke's death, finally starts to delve into Merry's past, she uncovers secrets that might put her and her family at risk. While making plans to expose Merry, Dara isn't aware that Merry knows all her moves. What follows is a cat-and-mouse play between Merry and Dara, which only one of them can win. Or so it seems. Towards the end there is a major twist that changes everything you have believed so far. The revelations at the end of the book nearly knocked me off my chair since I didn't see them coming, although the author has dropped several hints throughout the book.
Right from the beginning I sided with Dara, the perfect woman with a lovely family and a successful career. I loved her efficiency, the way she manages to balance career and private life. She always puts herself last while trying to satisfy other people's needs. Merry on the other hand is the antagonist, the bad one, who tries to jeopardize other people's lives for greed. Despite all her faults, I was fascinated by her since she is extremely clever in outsmarting other people and using them for her needs. The funny thing is that Dara and Merry have more in common than seems obvious at first glance. As we get to know both women better, it becomes clear that both suffer from events that happened in their past. The author impressively shows how childhood traumas can damage a person's mind.
I really enjoyed reading this exceptional psychological thriller and want to highly recommend it to all those of you who love suspense with depth.
Right from the beginning I sided with Dara, the perfect woman with a lovely family and a successful career. I loved her efficiency, the way she manages to balance career and private life. She always puts herself last while trying to satisfy other people's needs. Merry on the other hand is the antagonist, the bad one, who tries to jeopardize other people's lives for greed. Despite all her faults, I was fascinated by her since she is extremely clever in outsmarting other people and using them for her needs. The funny thing is that Dara and Merry have more in common than seems obvious at first glance. As we get to know both women better, it becomes clear that both suffer from events that happened in their past. The author impressively shows how childhood traumas can damage a person's mind.
I really enjoyed reading this exceptional psychological thriller and want to highly recommend it to all those of you who love suspense with depth.
February 28, 2025
This book was one hell of a roller-coaster ride! An absolute thriller packed with non-stop, heart-pounding drama. The story follows Dara, a savvy realtor, as she faces off against Merry, a fraudster trying to infiltrate her life and take it over. But Dara is no pushover because she’s a baddie in her own right, and the battle of wits between these two women became incredibly intense.
It’s somewhat addictive in a way bingeing one of those ‘is-there-a-next-episode?!’ Netflix dramas, which is always a good thing. That said, there were some frustrating loose ends / subplots that just didn’t make sense to me. Fair warning - spoilers ahead:
- Celeste’s backstory? Completely hella confusing until the literal last page, and even then, it’s crammed into a single paragraph.
- Merry’s POV felt unnecessary given how little it was used. Honestly, sticking to Dara’s perspective would’ve been more impactful.
- Oh hooooo and don’t get me started on Jason. His loyalty to Merry over Dara was so, so, so anger-triggering to me! Discussing family matters with Merry behind Dara’s back? Making decisions without consulting his wife??? I COULD NEVER. Fiction or not, I was ready to divorce him myself. But credit where it’s due, the author for sure knows how to evoke strong emotions about her characters.
Some plot points didn’t make much sense either - like Dara’s clients calling her about their Visa card issues? Too random to even unpack here.
All in all, this was super, SUPER fast-paced and best way for me to describe it is that it’s a Scooby-Doo-style thriller (in the best way). While it didn’t fully satisfy me with to its unresolved threads, it was still 100% super engaging.
***
Many thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books for making this Advanced Review Copy available!
It’s somewhat addictive in a way bingeing one of those ‘is-there-a-next-episode?!’ Netflix dramas, which is always a good thing. That said, there were some frustrating loose ends / subplots that just didn’t make sense to me. Fair warning - spoilers ahead:
- Celeste’s backstory? Completely hella confusing until the literal last page, and even then, it’s crammed into a single paragraph.
- Merry’s POV felt unnecessary given how little it was used. Honestly, sticking to Dara’s perspective would’ve been more impactful.
- Oh hooooo and don’t get me started on Jason. His loyalty to Merry over Dara was so, so, so anger-triggering to me! Discussing family matters with Merry behind Dara’s back? Making decisions without consulting his wife??? I COULD NEVER. Fiction or not, I was ready to divorce him myself. But credit where it’s due, the author for sure knows how to evoke strong emotions about her characters.
Some plot points didn’t make much sense either - like Dara’s clients calling her about their Visa card issues? Too random to even unpack here.
All in all, this was super, SUPER fast-paced and best way for me to describe it is that it’s a Scooby-Doo-style thriller (in the best way). While it didn’t fully satisfy me with to its unresolved threads, it was still 100% super engaging.
***
Many thanks to NetGalley and Level Best Books for making this Advanced Review Copy available!
May 23, 2025
ARC | Minor Spoiler Review
Deadly When Disturbed by D.M. Barr (Released last January 14, 2025) - 3.75/5
First of all, thank you to the author of this book, @dmbarr, for sending her works of art and trusting me to give an honest feedback.
My first psychological thriller I've read this year and frankly, I'm not a fan of the psychological thriller genre, but I have some on my TBR list that I would also like to give a chance that's why it's the perfect time for me to read this book.
This book has a slow start and strong finish. Although the building of the story and characters is quite slow, it gives context to the whole reason for the main characters' life ramifications. Also, the ending made me gasp and I didn't expect the plot twist there which sent chills in my body because I thought I had already predicted the ending but it's not, so I'm giving the author the slow clap in that particular plot twist.
On the other hand, tackling the mental health issue of Dara is not enough for me in the book. It would be helpful if there were part/s of the story that truly explains her mental health issue from her past because it played a great role in the story and not just a cursory explanation of it resulting for me to ask if Dara is still seeing her psychiatrist? Is she still taking her meds? Why is it that her other personality can still be triggered by her stressful situations given that she's rich and successful and can afford expensive medications? This is me asking as a person who's not familiar with her mental health disorder and assuming most readers are not also familiar with it.
Overall, I love the narrative and will definitely recommend this for the readers who love gripping and multiple plot twists.
Deadly When Disturbed by D.M. Barr (Released last January 14, 2025) - 3.75/5
First of all, thank you to the author of this book, @dmbarr, for sending her works of art and trusting me to give an honest feedback.
My first psychological thriller I've read this year and frankly, I'm not a fan of the psychological thriller genre, but I have some on my TBR list that I would also like to give a chance that's why it's the perfect time for me to read this book.
This book has a slow start and strong finish. Although the building of the story and characters is quite slow, it gives context to the whole reason for the main characters' life ramifications. Also, the ending made me gasp and I didn't expect the plot twist there which sent chills in my body because I thought I had already predicted the ending but it's not, so I'm giving the author the slow clap in that particular plot twist.
On the other hand, tackling the mental health issue of Dara is not enough for me in the book. It would be helpful if there were part/s of the story that truly explains her mental health issue from her past because it played a great role in the story and not just a cursory explanation of it resulting for me to ask if Dara is still seeing her psychiatrist? Is she still taking her meds? Why is it that her other personality can still be triggered by her stressful situations given that she's rich and successful and can afford expensive medications? This is me asking as a person who's not familiar with her mental health disorder and assuming most readers are not also familiar with it.
Overall, I love the narrative and will definitely recommend this for the readers who love gripping and multiple plot twists.
December 29, 2024
I confess I only downloaded this book because it kept appearing in the bottom bar when I was checking out other titles. The cover is stunning and impossible to escape, so after seeing it pop up over and over, I decided to give in -I'm so glad I did.
Deadly When Disturbed is exactly that. I mean, what a ride.
The story starts with a bang in the demise of Samantha (tw: suicide). Five years on, Dara, a realtor and philantropist, hires Merry as her assistant without a background check. It's obvious that either Dara or Merry has some sort of connection to Samantha's death. We slowly learn who Merry really is and what she plans to do to Dara. Things get very scary and Merry inadvertently uncovers Dara's secret from the past. Suddenly the hunter becomes the hunted and we start to see that there's a lot -and I mean a lot- behind Dara's perfect facade. We are then introduced to a third character which is impossible to say much about without spoiling the whole thing. Once it's clear who this person is, things start to ramp up to unprecedented levels and let's say the ending will shock you,
The story is entirely told in the third person. I usually prefer first POV and was pleasantly surprised by how engaging the narrator's voice is. The plot is very visual and the whole thing could be a Netflix series with Nicole Kidman. There's also a lot of characters but then again this wasn't a problem. Honestly, I'm in awe at how the entire thing flew by. This was my first book by this author and if this is anything to go by, it won't be my last.
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and author for my advanced review copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Deadly When Disturbed is exactly that. I mean, what a ride.
The story starts with a bang in the demise of Samantha (tw: suicide). Five years on, Dara, a realtor and philantropist, hires Merry as her assistant without a background check. It's obvious that either Dara or Merry has some sort of connection to Samantha's death. We slowly learn who Merry really is and what she plans to do to Dara. Things get very scary and Merry inadvertently uncovers Dara's secret from the past. Suddenly the hunter becomes the hunted and we start to see that there's a lot -and I mean a lot- behind Dara's perfect facade. We are then introduced to a third character which is impossible to say much about without spoiling the whole thing. Once it's clear who this person is, things start to ramp up to unprecedented levels and let's say the ending will shock you,
The story is entirely told in the third person. I usually prefer first POV and was pleasantly surprised by how engaging the narrator's voice is. The plot is very visual and the whole thing could be a Netflix series with Nicole Kidman. There's also a lot of characters but then again this wasn't a problem. Honestly, I'm in awe at how the entire thing flew by. This was my first book by this author and if this is anything to go by, it won't be my last.
Disclosure: I would like to thank the publisher and author for my advanced review copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 14, 2025
Firstly, thank you very much to D.M. Barr for sending me an Advanced Reader's Copy!
So, this was the first book that I have ever actually taken notes on/annotated a little. There was so much happening and I didn't want to forget how I felt in the moment. I've thought about how to rate this for a day and finally settled on 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 stars here).
This book wasn't bad. The twist shocked me, in a way, and in others, it didn't. The book begins with Samantha Ellingsworth, a depressed, soon to be divorced woman who ends up taking her own life. We later discover that Merry was behind that.
Then, we meet Dara, a successful relator, charity organizer, and stepmom. She is seen as this incredible woman working hard to support her family even though her and her husband come from pretty affluent families. She has to hire a new assistant and finds the perfect one in Meryl 'Merry' Rafter.
We also meet Celeste, seemingly a voice/ego living in Dara's brain. This is something that just felt convenient by the end of the book. Celeste is this character/voice/personality. I have mixed feelings about this. I don't have DID nor do I know anyone personally who does. But to have the book end with Dara/Celeste turn out to be a murderer felt stereotypical in a way.
I have a love/hate relationship with Merry. It was disgusting and oddly entertaining to learn more about her, her life, and all the awful things she has done. I did, sort of, guess the twist, but of course, Dara I didn't see coming (kind of). All in all, this wasn't a bad read, but there were some minor storylines that I just couldn't understand/get behind.
So, this was the first book that I have ever actually taken notes on/annotated a little. There was so much happening and I didn't want to forget how I felt in the moment. I've thought about how to rate this for a day and finally settled on 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 stars here).
This book wasn't bad. The twist shocked me, in a way, and in others, it didn't. The book begins with Samantha Ellingsworth, a depressed, soon to be divorced woman who ends up taking her own life. We later discover that Merry was behind that.
Then, we meet Dara, a successful relator, charity organizer, and stepmom. She is seen as this incredible woman working hard to support her family even though her and her husband come from pretty affluent families. She has to hire a new assistant and finds the perfect one in Meryl 'Merry' Rafter.
We also meet Celeste, seemingly a voice/ego living in Dara's brain. This is something that just felt convenient by the end of the book. Celeste is this character/voice/personality. I have mixed feelings about this. I don't have DID nor do I know anyone personally who does. But to have the book end with Dara/Celeste turn out to be a murderer felt stereotypical in a way.
I have a love/hate relationship with Merry. It was disgusting and oddly entertaining to learn more about her, her life, and all the awful things she has done. I did, sort of, guess the twist, but of course, Dara I didn't see coming (kind of). All in all, this wasn't a bad read, but there were some minor storylines that I just couldn't understand/get behind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2025
Deadly When Disturbed
DM Barr
Level Best Books
01/14/2025
Full disclosure – I picked this book because of the cover. Totally a good idea! I highly recommend Deadly When Disturbed to fans of domestic and psychological thrillers. This isa gripping domestic thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from its shocking opening to its jaw-dropping conclusion. With its clever characters and intricately woven plot, this book is an absolute page-turner.
The narrative is told from two perspectives: Dara's and, later, Merry's. This dual point of view allows readers to delve into both women's thoughts and motivations. From the very start, Dara is influenced by "Celeste," her psychological inner voice who often acts as her protector and guide, occasionally taking control of Dara's decisions. Dara is a highly sympathetic character, and though "Celeste" plays a significant role, I often found myself forgetting about her until Dara mentioned her again.
The plot is fast-paced and full of twists, with Merry always staying one step ahead of Dara as she manipulates the perceptions of those around her. As Dara starts to question Merry’s true intentions, her investigation into Merry's past uncovers one surprise after another. Despite their differences, the two women share more in common than they initially realize, and their contrasting approaches to handling their pasts drive the central conflict. Ultimately, the story becomes a high-stakes battle between them to determine who will come out on top.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
DM Barr
Level Best Books
01/14/2025
Full disclosure – I picked this book because of the cover. Totally a good idea! I highly recommend Deadly When Disturbed to fans of domestic and psychological thrillers. This isa gripping domestic thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from its shocking opening to its jaw-dropping conclusion. With its clever characters and intricately woven plot, this book is an absolute page-turner.
The narrative is told from two perspectives: Dara's and, later, Merry's. This dual point of view allows readers to delve into both women's thoughts and motivations. From the very start, Dara is influenced by "Celeste," her psychological inner voice who often acts as her protector and guide, occasionally taking control of Dara's decisions. Dara is a highly sympathetic character, and though "Celeste" plays a significant role, I often found myself forgetting about her until Dara mentioned her again.
The plot is fast-paced and full of twists, with Merry always staying one step ahead of Dara as she manipulates the perceptions of those around her. As Dara starts to question Merry’s true intentions, her investigation into Merry's past uncovers one surprise after another. Despite their differences, the two women share more in common than they initially realize, and their contrasting approaches to handling their pasts drive the central conflict. Ultimately, the story becomes a high-stakes battle between them to determine who will come out on top.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
January 9, 2025
RELEASE DATE : 14th January 2025!!!
Date : 7th January 2024
Book : Deadly When Disturbed
Author : D.M Barr
Genre : Psychological Thriller
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the ARC! And the BOOK COVER is beautiful!
This book is about Rock Canyons biggest leading Realtor named Dara Banks who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders.
Between struggling trying to fix her relationship with her husband, trying to be a good stepmother to her stepson, wanting to be there for her autistic daughter, being a philanthropist and dealing with ignorant parents… she now has to find a new assistant to help her out.
And then walks in Meryl “aka Merry” who has been nothing but helpful. Merry seems to be on the top of everything until she is involved in EVERYTHING. Everything meaning from workplace to home space to friendships.
Is she just all nice, caring and helpful? Or is it all just an act? Does Dara put a stop to it? Does Merry feel taken for granted? You’ll have to find that out yourself once you read this!
I got so pissed off reading this (IN THE BEST WAY) thanks to the character. This book was really well written and you can’t help but get hooked from the first 20% of reading this. There were a couple of mind blowing moments. However, I did hope the ending was prolonged just a tad bit more. I could tell you why but to do that I’d be spoiling it. Let’s just say I wish it had more “torturous justice”. But that’s just the way my mind works.😉
But honestly can’t wait for the book release so I can see what all of you think about it!
Date : 7th January 2024
Book : Deadly When Disturbed
Author : D.M Barr
Genre : Psychological Thriller
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the ARC! And the BOOK COVER is beautiful!
This book is about Rock Canyons biggest leading Realtor named Dara Banks who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders.
Between struggling trying to fix her relationship with her husband, trying to be a good stepmother to her stepson, wanting to be there for her autistic daughter, being a philanthropist and dealing with ignorant parents… she now has to find a new assistant to help her out.
And then walks in Meryl “aka Merry” who has been nothing but helpful. Merry seems to be on the top of everything until she is involved in EVERYTHING. Everything meaning from workplace to home space to friendships.
Is she just all nice, caring and helpful? Or is it all just an act? Does Dara put a stop to it? Does Merry feel taken for granted? You’ll have to find that out yourself once you read this!
I got so pissed off reading this (IN THE BEST WAY) thanks to the character. This book was really well written and you can’t help but get hooked from the first 20% of reading this. There were a couple of mind blowing moments. However, I did hope the ending was prolonged just a tad bit more. I could tell you why but to do that I’d be spoiling it. Let’s just say I wish it had more “torturous justice”. But that’s just the way my mind works.😉
But honestly can’t wait for the book release so I can see what all of you think about it!
January 20, 2025
Deadly When Disturbed by D.M. Barr is absolutely amazing, suspenseful psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping ending! I mean - WOW ending! I loved it!
My attention was there from chapter one!
I loved how things were progressing and I was questioning what the hell was happening and then the "Tom and Jerry" game happened and I was literally biting my nails to find out who would win!
Cute... I am still smiling because the end took me by surprise, but such a good surprise.
Back to the story.
Dara... you would think she has all... top of everything but... just rear one knows how much struggle she faces daily.
Merry is there to support and rescue if needed. But why? I have a love/hate relationship with Merry.
Celeste... oh well, I was asking so many times why Celeste was involved.
Brooke is there to get Dara back to reality but will she listen?
Jason... oh well what a pathetic man who ignored all his wife's tries but was ready to get his life back on track when "shiny" Merry arrived! Seriously!
Children... oh well... you can't win with children.
The dynamics in this story swept me off my feet!
I love it when I can't work out the villain and everyone is guilty in their own right.
It's messed up... it's messed up!
The next day I went back to reread the last chapter... YES! still love it! Everything comes together so nicely, so logically, so unexpectedly!
I believe I will want to listen to an audiobook if there will be one!
My attention was there from chapter one!
I loved how things were progressing and I was questioning what the hell was happening and then the "Tom and Jerry" game happened and I was literally biting my nails to find out who would win!
Cute... I am still smiling because the end took me by surprise, but such a good surprise.
Back to the story.
Dara... you would think she has all... top of everything but... just rear one knows how much struggle she faces daily.
Merry is there to support and rescue if needed. But why? I have a love/hate relationship with Merry.
Celeste... oh well, I was asking so many times why Celeste was involved.
Brooke is there to get Dara back to reality but will she listen?
Jason... oh well what a pathetic man who ignored all his wife's tries but was ready to get his life back on track when "shiny" Merry arrived! Seriously!
Children... oh well... you can't win with children.
The dynamics in this story swept me off my feet!
I love it when I can't work out the villain and everyone is guilty in their own right.
It's messed up... it's messed up!
The next day I went back to reread the last chapter... YES! still love it! Everything comes together so nicely, so logically, so unexpectedly!
I believe I will want to listen to an audiobook if there will be one!
February 28, 2025
I've never heard people talking or recommending books from this author and didn't expect it to give me some chills. Anyway, thank you so much to the author, D.M. Barr, who gave me this copy in exchange for fair reviews. I appreciate it. So, here we go!
REVIEW:
I would say this book is not perfect, there are still minor issues I have found. First, a few typos. Next, the slow start of the storyline talks about Real Estate things because the main character, Dara Banks, is a realtor of course. Then, it was not focused on the setting as well. Although Dara Banks traveled here and there to some places to do a quest about 'something', they were just lack of depth.
HOWEVER...!
I put my glasses in the author's perspective and looked back to the ending, which led me to the realization that the slow start was there to give more depth to the character's passion and personality. That being said, diverse representations of characters were the element that this book was focused more on showing you the psychological thriller vibes.
Besides, though the writing style was descriptive and might take some time to get into especially when it comes to the suspense element, it would serve you well throughout the story with the pacing, too. Well, because I, was anxious about knowing what would happen between both Dara and Merry.
🧐If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with the psychology of character being explored more why and how you will probably love this book! ^^
REVIEW:
I would say this book is not perfect, there are still minor issues I have found. First, a few typos. Next, the slow start of the storyline talks about Real Estate things because the main character, Dara Banks, is a realtor of course. Then, it was not focused on the setting as well. Although Dara Banks traveled here and there to some places to do a quest about 'something', they were just lack of depth.
HOWEVER...!
I put my glasses in the author's perspective and looked back to the ending, which led me to the realization that the slow start was there to give more depth to the character's passion and personality. That being said, diverse representations of characters were the element that this book was focused more on showing you the psychological thriller vibes.
Besides, though the writing style was descriptive and might take some time to get into especially when it comes to the suspense element, it would serve you well throughout the story with the pacing, too. Well, because I, was anxious about knowing what would happen between both Dara and Merry.
🧐If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with the psychology of character being explored more why and how you will probably love this book! ^^
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