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Stolen
⚠️ Don't miss this gripping, twisty psychological thriller, perfect for fans of K.L. Slater, J D Kirk and Freida McFadden ✨ 🏠 He's been in my house.
🧒🏻👦🏼 He's taken my children.
💔 What am I to do?
Vicki has done everything to protect her children. Their father was out of control – every day, his life embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she cut him off, for good.
But when she comes home to a distraught babysitter, panic hits.
The kids are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Vicki can see how he persuaded the babysitter – Jess is young. Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in his twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too.
Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his? Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
From the bestselling author of Missing comes an unputdownable story of a mother's strength, a family's secrets and the never ending question just who can you trust?!
🧒🏻👦🏼 He's taken my children.
💔 What am I to do?
Vicki has done everything to protect her children. Their father was out of control – every day, his life embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she cut him off, for good.
But when she comes home to a distraught babysitter, panic hits.
The kids are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Vicki can see how he persuaded the babysitter – Jess is young. Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in his twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too.
Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his? Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
From the bestselling author of Missing comes an unputdownable story of a mother's strength, a family's secrets and the never ending question just who can you trust?!
- GenresThriller
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2025
155 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Speechley
21 books153 followersRuby Speechley is a psychological thriller writer. Her debut novel, Someone Else’s Baby, was published by Hera Books on 25 July 2019.
You can contact her on Twitter: @rubyspeechley, Facebook: ‘Ruby Speechley Author’ or via her website: rubyspeechley.com
You can contact her on Twitter: @rubyspeechley, Facebook: ‘Ruby Speechley Author’ or via her website: rubyspeechley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 17, 2025
Wow! This is one of those books where I can say much outside of the synopsis, but the plot is a good one: Vicki and Lee are getting divorced, for reasons I’ll get into, but one of the reasons is because she started having an affair. To make it worse, she was having an affair with the man who fired her husband, and they are talking about moving in together. She and her now-official boyfriend Marc are about to make this change when everything around them changes on its own…
Jess has been babysitting their kids for years, and Vicky has her coming to watch Alfie and Bella while she goes out with Marc. Everything is normal until she thinks she sees someone looking in the windows, and then the doorbell starts ringing. A lot goes down, and by the end of the night, Lee has taken the kids, and he tells Jess to let Vicki know he’s not coming back.
The next morning, Jess’s mom Cassie is in a panic. Jess isn’t home. She’s not answering her phone, her boyfriend Olly isn’t answering his…we now have two moms with a combined total of three missing kids. Vicki knows where Lee would probably take the kids, so the two women begin their fight to get their kids back.
This book was quite different than most missing child books, and it was also written in a timely matter, with real issues facing kids these days. The only part that got to me (and makes me pretty sure the author isn’t American) is because Vicki kicked Lee out and refused to let him see his kids because he smoked THE DEVIL’S LETTUCE and was found with a bag of it at work.
Living where it’s legal in more places than not, when anyone talked about him needing treatment for his addiction, I kept laughing. Alcohol would have probably made more sense, or hard drugs, but that was unintentionally funny and detracted from what otherwise was a serious story. This book had a lot of depth inside of a sometimes-overused thriller sub-genre. 4.5 stars, rounded up for the pro-animal stance in the book.
(Thank you to Boldwood Books, Ruby Speechley and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released November 15, 2025.)
Jess has been babysitting their kids for years, and Vicky has her coming to watch Alfie and Bella while she goes out with Marc. Everything is normal until she thinks she sees someone looking in the windows, and then the doorbell starts ringing. A lot goes down, and by the end of the night, Lee has taken the kids, and he tells Jess to let Vicki know he’s not coming back.
The next morning, Jess’s mom Cassie is in a panic. Jess isn’t home. She’s not answering her phone, her boyfriend Olly isn’t answering his…we now have two moms with a combined total of three missing kids. Vicki knows where Lee would probably take the kids, so the two women begin their fight to get their kids back.
This book was quite different than most missing child books, and it was also written in a timely matter, with real issues facing kids these days. The only part that got to me (and makes me pretty sure the author isn’t American) is because Vicki kicked Lee out and refused to let him see his kids because he smoked THE DEVIL’S LETTUCE and was found with a bag of it at work.
Living where it’s legal in more places than not, when anyone talked about him needing treatment for his addiction, I kept laughing. Alcohol would have probably made more sense, or hard drugs, but that was unintentionally funny and detracted from what otherwise was a serious story. This book had a lot of depth inside of a sometimes-overused thriller sub-genre. 4.5 stars, rounded up for the pro-animal stance in the book.
(Thank you to Boldwood Books, Ruby Speechley and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released November 15, 2025.)
November 4, 2025
This was such a good, twisty, and gripping little page turner. I was glued all the way through, only stopping for the usual every day stuff (😤 LOL!).
Vicki has stopped her estranged husband Lee, from seeing their two kids, Bella and Alfie, until he seeks help for his drug addiction, which is smoking a bit of weed 🙄 Vicki has also been at her new job as a P.A to Marc, for the past several months, which of course, is where Lee was employed until weed was found in his drawer at work, and he was subsequently sacked. All this is on top of Vicki and Marc starting a relationship.
One night while Jess, the 17 year old girl from next door, is babysitting Bella and Alfie, a masked man storms in and the kids are abducted. Shortly afterwards, Jess also goes missing.
To be honest, I knew which way the story was going from quite early on, but there is SO MUCH MORE, that makes this book so gripping.
Thanks to Boldwood Books, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
5 ⭐️
Available: 15th November 2025
Vicki has stopped her estranged husband Lee, from seeing their two kids, Bella and Alfie, until he seeks help for his drug addiction, which is smoking a bit of weed 🙄 Vicki has also been at her new job as a P.A to Marc, for the past several months, which of course, is where Lee was employed until weed was found in his drawer at work, and he was subsequently sacked. All this is on top of Vicki and Marc starting a relationship.
One night while Jess, the 17 year old girl from next door, is babysitting Bella and Alfie, a masked man storms in and the kids are abducted. Shortly afterwards, Jess also goes missing.
To be honest, I knew which way the story was going from quite early on, but there is SO MUCH MORE, that makes this book so gripping.
Thanks to Boldwood Books, the author, and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
5 ⭐️
Available: 15th November 2025
October 15, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
What a page turner! Stolen was my first read by Ruby Speechley. It was a tense domestic thriller about every parent’s worst fear. Vicki had worked hard to keep her kids safe from her volatile ex, Lee, but one afternoon she came home to find the babysitter in tears—and both of her children missing. Lee insisted he was keeping them, and Vicki started to believe he had manipulated the young babysitter into helping him. When the babysitter also vanished, Vicki realized it wasn’t just a custody dispute but something far more dangerous.
I really enjoyed Speechley’s gripping, fast-paced writing style. She wrote in a clear, fast-paced style that was heavy on tension and emotion. She focused on family drama and suspense and used short chapters and an unsettling atmosphere that kept me turning the pages faster than I could read.
I thought Stolen started with a compelling, high-stakes premise that pulled me in right away. The tension stayed strong throughout, and I liked how the story dug into the complicated emotions between Vicki and her ex. The short, punchy chapters made it a quick read. That said, one of the twists was predictable, and I wished some of the side characters had been more developed. Even so, the suspense and emotional drama made it a solid, engaging read.
If you like psychological thrillers with plenty of family drama and suspense, you’ll want to pick up Stolen. It’s a quick, tense read that dives into messy relationships and keeps you turning the pages.
Thanks Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
What a page turner! Stolen was my first read by Ruby Speechley. It was a tense domestic thriller about every parent’s worst fear. Vicki had worked hard to keep her kids safe from her volatile ex, Lee, but one afternoon she came home to find the babysitter in tears—and both of her children missing. Lee insisted he was keeping them, and Vicki started to believe he had manipulated the young babysitter into helping him. When the babysitter also vanished, Vicki realized it wasn’t just a custody dispute but something far more dangerous.
I really enjoyed Speechley’s gripping, fast-paced writing style. She wrote in a clear, fast-paced style that was heavy on tension and emotion. She focused on family drama and suspense and used short chapters and an unsettling atmosphere that kept me turning the pages faster than I could read.
I thought Stolen started with a compelling, high-stakes premise that pulled me in right away. The tension stayed strong throughout, and I liked how the story dug into the complicated emotions between Vicki and her ex. The short, punchy chapters made it a quick read. That said, one of the twists was predictable, and I wished some of the side characters had been more developed. Even so, the suspense and emotional drama made it a solid, engaging read.
If you like psychological thrillers with plenty of family drama and suspense, you’ll want to pick up Stolen. It’s a quick, tense read that dives into messy relationships and keeps you turning the pages.
Thanks Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 24, 2025
W.O.W i could not put this one down..... i was glued... more twists than a rollercoaster..
When Marc and Vikki started dating, lee who was married to Vikki starts acting strange and out of character. They both worked for Marc.
As Marc becomes closer to Vikki, he starts causing problems between them all. Lee got the sac for supposedly having weed ib his drawer? Did he? Lee whole heartedly denies it and says thst he is being framed by Marc to keep him aeay from Vikki and the kids. Is he? This book was non stop. When Jess, Vikk is babysitter goes missing,,and lee ends up in hospital after losing his grip on the pier, does Marc know about either?? Debbie lees sister is holding a very big secret of her own, what could it be though? Fantastic book. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me .....
When Marc and Vikki started dating, lee who was married to Vikki starts acting strange and out of character. They both worked for Marc.
As Marc becomes closer to Vikki, he starts causing problems between them all. Lee got the sac for supposedly having weed ib his drawer? Did he? Lee whole heartedly denies it and says thst he is being framed by Marc to keep him aeay from Vikki and the kids. Is he? This book was non stop. When Jess, Vikk is babysitter goes missing,,and lee ends up in hospital after losing his grip on the pier, does Marc know about either?? Debbie lees sister is holding a very big secret of her own, what could it be though? Fantastic book. 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 from me .....
October 18, 2025
This story pulls you straight into a nightmare. Vicki thought she'd finally protected her children from her volatile ex, Lee. She cut him out completely. But one evening, she comes home to find the babysitter shaken-and both kids gone.
Lee says he's taken them. He's not bringing them back. And when the babysitter vanishes too, it's clear this is no ordinary custody fight. Something darker is at play.
Speechley's writing is sharp, fast, and full of dread. Every chapter tightens the tension, every reveal twists the knife a little deeper. The sense of fear builds relentlessly until you can't stop reading, even when you want to look away.
Some twists you might see coming-but others hit like a punch. It's that perfect mix of the expected and the shocking that keeps you glued to the pages.
A chilling, heart-stopping psychological thriller about control, manipulation, and how far a mother will go when everything she loves is taken from her.
Lee says he's taken them. He's not bringing them back. And when the babysitter vanishes too, it's clear this is no ordinary custody fight. Something darker is at play.
Speechley's writing is sharp, fast, and full of dread. Every chapter tightens the tension, every reveal twists the knife a little deeper. The sense of fear builds relentlessly until you can't stop reading, even when you want to look away.
Some twists you might see coming-but others hit like a punch. It's that perfect mix of the expected and the shocking that keeps you glued to the pages.
A chilling, heart-stopping psychological thriller about control, manipulation, and how far a mother will go when everything she loves is taken from her.
November 12, 2025
Omg I loved this book so much it’s a good storyline
Don’t want to spoilt it
Blurb
He's been in my house.
He's taken my children.
What am I to do?
Vicki has done everything to protect her children. Their father was out of control – every day, his life embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she cut him off, for good.
But when she comes home to a distraught babysitter, panic hits.
The kids are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Vicki can see how he persuaded the babysitter – Jess is young. Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in his twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too.
Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his? Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
Don’t want to spoilt it
Blurb
He's been in my house.
He's taken my children.
What am I to do?
Vicki has done everything to protect her children. Their father was out of control – every day, his life embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she cut him off, for good.
But when she comes home to a distraught babysitter, panic hits.
The kids are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Vicki can see how he persuaded the babysitter – Jess is young. Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in his twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too.
Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his? Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
October 27, 2025
Well this is definitely a chilling book. As a woman and a mother this will this book will definitely give you chills. This is a mother’s worse nightmare right there. A child abducted.
This book truly shows you can’t judge a book by its cover. And sometimes you can’t see the red flags right in front of you.
In Canada pot is legal and I don’t see it as a big deal even tho I’m not a smoker myself. But the story uses pot as a drug and a reason a father lost his job, his kids and his family. I personally don’t see that as plausible but I guess to others it might be. This book will have trigger warnings such as drugs, rape, sexual assault, and kidnapping . So take that as a warning. If you can see that it’s only a book and you want something that is chilling this is a book you will want to read.
This book truly shows you can’t judge a book by its cover. And sometimes you can’t see the red flags right in front of you.
In Canada pot is legal and I don’t see it as a big deal even tho I’m not a smoker myself. But the story uses pot as a drug and a reason a father lost his job, his kids and his family. I personally don’t see that as plausible but I guess to others it might be. This book will have trigger warnings such as drugs, rape, sexual assault, and kidnapping . So take that as a warning. If you can see that it’s only a book and you want something that is chilling this is a book you will want to read.
October 12, 2025
What would you do if your husband was caught in possession of drugs? Given his past, you fear he’s relapsed into his old bad habits, and you see only one solution: to remove him from your life and that of your children. She’s convinced this is the right course of action. She wants to protect her kids—but is she thinking enough about the fact that they miss their dad? And since every jug goes to the well until it breaks, this might have consequences...
I completely understand Vicky on one hand, but on the other, she might have considered allowing supervised visits, for example. Of course, it’s always easy to come up with solutions after the fact. At that moment, it probably didn’t even cross her mind—she built a massive wall to protect her children. I suspect, no, I’m sure I would have done exactly the same.
I really enjoyed this book. Several characters were created, and with some of them, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up immediately because I instinctively felt I couldn’t trust them. Others instantly found a place in my heart, even if they didn’t always make the right choices. Sometimes, desperation drives you to make unwise decisions.
Was there some predictability? Yes, but that’s okay. I was glad that part of the story went in the direction I had imagined, and I thought it worked perfectly. Other parts completely surprised me, and that mix created the perfect balance between what I expected and what I didn’t.
Once again, it’s clear that what people experience in childhood can deeply shape their adult lives—traumas that linger or behaviors that are learned and seen as “normal.”
Colin and Olly completely stole my heart—they were my favorite characters.
A wonderful story that at times made my heart ache, but also overflowed with heartwarming moments. 5 stars.
I completely understand Vicky on one hand, but on the other, she might have considered allowing supervised visits, for example. Of course, it’s always easy to come up with solutions after the fact. At that moment, it probably didn’t even cross her mind—she built a massive wall to protect her children. I suspect, no, I’m sure I would have done exactly the same.
I really enjoyed this book. Several characters were created, and with some of them, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up immediately because I instinctively felt I couldn’t trust them. Others instantly found a place in my heart, even if they didn’t always make the right choices. Sometimes, desperation drives you to make unwise decisions.
Was there some predictability? Yes, but that’s okay. I was glad that part of the story went in the direction I had imagined, and I thought it worked perfectly. Other parts completely surprised me, and that mix created the perfect balance between what I expected and what I didn’t.
Once again, it’s clear that what people experience in childhood can deeply shape their adult lives—traumas that linger or behaviors that are learned and seen as “normal.”
Colin and Olly completely stole my heart—they were my favorite characters.
A wonderful story that at times made my heart ache, but also overflowed with heartwarming moments. 5 stars.
October 3, 2025
This was an incredibly addictive and twisty read. Vicki and Lee are separated and share two children, a daughter and a son. Vicki is in a relationship with her boss, Marc, and claims Lee has a serious drug problem, which cost him his job and access to the kids. Lee, however, insists he was framed by Marc. Jess, Vicki's babysitter, mysteriously disappears one night, and on the same night, Lee takes the children from the house while Vicki is out with Marc. The story is full of twists and turns, making it truly captivating.
October 12, 2025
An amazing utterly psychological thriller to give you thrills.
He's been in my house
He's taken my children
What am I to do?
Vicki leaves her two children Alfie and Bella with the babysitter Jess, when arriving home she finds them gone.
Distressed Jess has been the perfect pawn and now she has disappeared. This is something much darker.
Her new man Marc, suspect and her out of controls ex husband Lee, who he worked and got him sacked from his job setting him up?
So who is Vicki to believe, and she won't stop till her children are back safely.
This story is so twisty, mind-blowing, brilliant chapters that was certainly unputdownable right through.
Such a must read for book readers to get stuck in.
Fantastic.
He's been in my house
He's taken my children
What am I to do?
Vicki leaves her two children Alfie and Bella with the babysitter Jess, when arriving home she finds them gone.
Distressed Jess has been the perfect pawn and now she has disappeared. This is something much darker.
Her new man Marc, suspect and her out of controls ex husband Lee, who he worked and got him sacked from his job setting him up?
So who is Vicki to believe, and she won't stop till her children are back safely.
This story is so twisty, mind-blowing, brilliant chapters that was certainly unputdownable right through.
Such a must read for book readers to get stuck in.
Fantastic.
October 5, 2025
Title: Stolen
Author: Ruby Speechley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: November 15, 2025
This was my first book written by this author, who I had never heard of before. The Prologue was EXACTLY what a good psychological thriller should have. It was impressive and sucked me right in!
The book is told from multiple points of view; Vicki, Jess, and Debbie. It appeared as though there were multiple storylines occurring at the same time, but I wasn't sure if they were somehow connected. It didn't take long before I figured out the connection. It also didn't take long for me to figure out the entire twist, as the book was rather predictable.
The author continuously refers to the fact that Lee has been smoking marijuana and when he smokes, Vicky thinks it makes him dangerous, paranoid, irrational, and unreasonable. She makes it seem like marijuana is a hard drug like meth or cocaine when, in reality, it's nothing like that AT ALL. In fact, just about half of the states in the USA have legalized it.
This book was a quick, easy read that lovers of McFadden would enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Ruby Speechley
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: November 15, 2025
This was my first book written by this author, who I had never heard of before. The Prologue was EXACTLY what a good psychological thriller should have. It was impressive and sucked me right in!
The book is told from multiple points of view; Vicki, Jess, and Debbie. It appeared as though there were multiple storylines occurring at the same time, but I wasn't sure if they were somehow connected. It didn't take long before I figured out the connection. It also didn't take long for me to figure out the entire twist, as the book was rather predictable.
The author continuously refers to the fact that Lee has been smoking marijuana and when he smokes, Vicky thinks it makes him dangerous, paranoid, irrational, and unreasonable. She makes it seem like marijuana is a hard drug like meth or cocaine when, in reality, it's nothing like that AT ALL. In fact, just about half of the states in the USA have legalized it.
This book was a quick, easy read that lovers of McFadden would enjoy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
November 3, 2025
This book started a bit slow for me, but the suspense was enough to keep me engaged.
Vicki has cut off her chaotic ex-husband, Lee, to protect her children. However, she returns home to find her babysitter, Jess, in a panic because the kids are missing, and Lee refuses to return them. Jess, easily manipulated, also disappears, leaving Vicki to question whether Lee is just trying to reclaim his children or if something more sinister is occurring.
We encounter several points of view from characters Vicki, Jess, and Debbie. Unfortunately, there were quite a few characters I found difficult to like. Their level of maturity and behavior often frustrated me, making it challenging to fully immerse myself in the story; I grew impatient with some of them. It seems this read didn’t resonate with me as much as other works by this author have.
Jess struck me as young and naive, easily swayed by others. I also didn’t care much for Marc or Lee, which likely contributed to my feeling like I was trudging through the narrative. Vicki, as the main character, is usually one I enjoy; however, I didn’t connect with her this time either.
Overall, the book was well-crafted for what could be any parent's worst nightmare. However, I struggled to connect with the characters. While there were plenty of twists that kept my interest, I finished the book feeling like it just wasn’t meant for me this time. I still encourage others to give it a shot because everyone looks for different things in a story, and perhaps it will resonate with you! For readers who enjoy family drama filled with lies, deceit, and some immature characters, this book might hit the mark. The main twist was quite surprising and unpredictable. I still found the plot a bit far-fetched, feeling more like fabricated fiction that was hard to relate to. With all that said, I’m looking forward to reading more from this author as I enjoyed previous works.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC widget. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Vicki has cut off her chaotic ex-husband, Lee, to protect her children. However, she returns home to find her babysitter, Jess, in a panic because the kids are missing, and Lee refuses to return them. Jess, easily manipulated, also disappears, leaving Vicki to question whether Lee is just trying to reclaim his children or if something more sinister is occurring.
We encounter several points of view from characters Vicki, Jess, and Debbie. Unfortunately, there were quite a few characters I found difficult to like. Their level of maturity and behavior often frustrated me, making it challenging to fully immerse myself in the story; I grew impatient with some of them. It seems this read didn’t resonate with me as much as other works by this author have.
Jess struck me as young and naive, easily swayed by others. I also didn’t care much for Marc or Lee, which likely contributed to my feeling like I was trudging through the narrative. Vicki, as the main character, is usually one I enjoy; however, I didn’t connect with her this time either.
Overall, the book was well-crafted for what could be any parent's worst nightmare. However, I struggled to connect with the characters. While there were plenty of twists that kept my interest, I finished the book feeling like it just wasn’t meant for me this time. I still encourage others to give it a shot because everyone looks for different things in a story, and perhaps it will resonate with you! For readers who enjoy family drama filled with lies, deceit, and some immature characters, this book might hit the mark. The main twist was quite surprising and unpredictable. I still found the plot a bit far-fetched, feeling more like fabricated fiction that was hard to relate to. With all that said, I’m looking forward to reading more from this author as I enjoyed previous works.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC widget. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
Stolen is a tense thriller that grips you right from the very start and will have you engaged till you get to the very last page.
Vicki is separated from her ex husband and the father of her children, Lee after he lost his job due to drugs and is now in a new relationship with her boss, Marc in which Lee absolutely despises him. Going out on a date she leaves her two children under the care of her regular babysitter and teenage next door neighbour Jess. The night soon ends in fear though as she receives a frantic text from Jess that Lee has taken the kids and is not going to bring them back. The only person she knows to find her missing children from their father is Debbie buts turns even worse when Jess has also gone missing.
Told in multiple POVS of Vicki, Jess and Debbie you slowly learn about secrets they have and really want to know what they are hiding. Right from the very start i wanted to know what Jess was hiding, i well and truly felt for her and what she was going through. Some moments Vicki was getting on my nerve and couldn't see what everybody else was seeing and trying to tell her. One character i knew right from the very start they wasn't to be trusted and i was glad i was right to come to that conclusion as near the end i hated them.
Full of drama, thrills, suspense and secrets this read is a mother's worst nightmare and what they will do to make everything right.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest review.
Vicki is separated from her ex husband and the father of her children, Lee after he lost his job due to drugs and is now in a new relationship with her boss, Marc in which Lee absolutely despises him. Going out on a date she leaves her two children under the care of her regular babysitter and teenage next door neighbour Jess. The night soon ends in fear though as she receives a frantic text from Jess that Lee has taken the kids and is not going to bring them back. The only person she knows to find her missing children from their father is Debbie buts turns even worse when Jess has also gone missing.
Told in multiple POVS of Vicki, Jess and Debbie you slowly learn about secrets they have and really want to know what they are hiding. Right from the very start i wanted to know what Jess was hiding, i well and truly felt for her and what she was going through. Some moments Vicki was getting on my nerve and couldn't see what everybody else was seeing and trying to tell her. One character i knew right from the very start they wasn't to be trusted and i was glad i was right to come to that conclusion as near the end i hated them.
Full of drama, thrills, suspense and secrets this read is a mother's worst nightmare and what they will do to make everything right.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the copy of this arc in exchange of my full honest review.
November 5, 2025
Vicki's former husband Lee is a bad father... she knows this to be true, so she cuts all contact between him and his children. Marc, her new beau is the perfect male role model... she knows this to be true too. One night while Vicki and Marc are out, Lee takes off with his kids forever. The babysitter Jess is beside herself... but then she disappears too. Will Vicki find her kids? Will Jess be found? How big does a secret have to be to destroy lives?
This is not my first read from Ruby Speechley. I was so excited for another title from her, and Stolen did not disappoint! While I figured out the ending early on, I was still engrossed in the story because I didn't know how it was going to play out. Most readers will put this one together, but it's not always about the ridiculous plot twists... sometimes the journey makes the book enjoyable.
This book was nearly impossible to put down. Every chapter led to "just one more chapter". I just had to know what happened next. What's important about this book specifically is that the reader knows more than any of the characters because of all the different POVs, so while it seems to us that characters are making incredibly stupid decisions, we have knowledge they lack. Read It and enjoy the ride.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This is not my first read from Ruby Speechley. I was so excited for another title from her, and Stolen did not disappoint! While I figured out the ending early on, I was still engrossed in the story because I didn't know how it was going to play out. Most readers will put this one together, but it's not always about the ridiculous plot twists... sometimes the journey makes the book enjoyable.
This book was nearly impossible to put down. Every chapter led to "just one more chapter". I just had to know what happened next. What's important about this book specifically is that the reader knows more than any of the characters because of all the different POVs, so while it seems to us that characters are making incredibly stupid decisions, we have knowledge they lack. Read It and enjoy the ride.
Note: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
November 25, 2025
Stolen by Ruby Speechley was a beautifully written book from start to finish and once I started to read it I found it hard to put my kindle down. Stolen was a fast-paced psychological thriller and I loved it. Especially as it was full of excellent twists and turns throughout that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Superb book from start to finish!
Vicki has done everything to protect her children.
But, their father - Lee is out of control, with every day that passes, his life is embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she had to cut him off, for good. Hopefully this will work! to keep their children safe!
But when Vicki returns home she finds a distraught babysitter called Jess, and panic hits Vicki hard!!!
Vicki's children are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Jess the babysitter is young, Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in Lee's twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too. Where is she?
Now, Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his?
Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
Will Vicki find her children and Jess in time?
🥺 WoW 🥺 This book is so good I ended up reading it in one sitting.
I highly recommend this book Superb! 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Vicki has done everything to protect her children.
But, their father - Lee is out of control, with every day that passes, his life is embroiled in lies, drugs, chaos. So she had to cut him off, for good. Hopefully this will work! to keep their children safe!
But when Vicki returns home she finds a distraught babysitter called Jess, and panic hits Vicki hard!!!
Vicki's children are gone. And Lee says he’s not bringing them back.
Jess the babysitter is young, Naïve. Easy to manipulate. The perfect pawn in Lee's twisted plan.
But then Jess disappears too. Where is she?
Now, Is this just a father trying to take back what’s his?
Or has something much darker wormed its way into her perfect family?
Will Vicki find her children and Jess in time?
🥺 WoW 🥺 This book is so good I ended up reading it in one sitting.
I highly recommend this book Superb! 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
December 26, 2025
This is my first read by this author and she really pulled me in from the start. It’s a tense, emotionally driven thriller that focuses more on psychological impact than nonstop action, which made it feel realistic and unsettling in the best way. The slow-build tension kept me engaged the whole way through.
One of the strongest parts of the book is the character development. The main character feels very relatable. She’s flawed, scared, and trying to make sense of an impossible situation. Her reactions felt believable and the emotional weight of the story came through clearly. The writing is clear and immersive and the short chapters make it easy to keep reading.
That said, there were moments where the pacing dipped a little, especially in the middle and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward just a bit faster. A few elements were also somewhat predictable, which lowered the tension at times and kept it from being a full five-star read for me.
Overall, this book is a gripping, emotionally heavy thriller that stays with you after you finish. May have some triggers for some readers. If you enjoy psychological suspense with strong emotional depth, this is definitely worth picking up.
One of the strongest parts of the book is the character development. The main character feels very relatable. She’s flawed, scared, and trying to make sense of an impossible situation. Her reactions felt believable and the emotional weight of the story came through clearly. The writing is clear and immersive and the short chapters make it easy to keep reading.
That said, there were moments where the pacing dipped a little, especially in the middle and I found myself wanting the plot to move forward just a bit faster. A few elements were also somewhat predictable, which lowered the tension at times and kept it from being a full five-star read for me.
Overall, this book is a gripping, emotionally heavy thriller that stays with you after you finish. May have some triggers for some readers. If you enjoy psychological suspense with strong emotional depth, this is definitely worth picking up.
November 3, 2025
Wow! What a rollercoaster of a read!
Vicki separated from her husband, Lee and has stopped him from seeing the children because she fears he is in a dark place with his habit, which led him to be fired from work.
She is in a relationship with her boss, Marc. Lee doesn’t like him but won’t tell Vicki why.
Vicki and Marc go out for the evening, leaving teenage neighbour Jess in charge. They come home to chaos. Lee has “stolen” the children.
Now that is only part of what happens in this book, and I am not revealing anymore, but it has more twists than a helter-skelter.
The book is told in multiple points of view and we get an incite into what everyone is feeling and thinking at that point in time, which I like as I feel I get a wider picture in my head.
As the story progressed, it got chilling, and I would say if anyone has any triggers, please check if this is for you before reading it. As it was tough going in places.
Overall, I thought it was a great read and kept me glued to it. I have read a few of Ruby Speechley’s books and loved them all, and this one was no exception; it was fantastic.
Vicki separated from her husband, Lee and has stopped him from seeing the children because she fears he is in a dark place with his habit, which led him to be fired from work.
She is in a relationship with her boss, Marc. Lee doesn’t like him but won’t tell Vicki why.
Vicki and Marc go out for the evening, leaving teenage neighbour Jess in charge. They come home to chaos. Lee has “stolen” the children.
Now that is only part of what happens in this book, and I am not revealing anymore, but it has more twists than a helter-skelter.
The book is told in multiple points of view and we get an incite into what everyone is feeling and thinking at that point in time, which I like as I feel I get a wider picture in my head.
As the story progressed, it got chilling, and I would say if anyone has any triggers, please check if this is for you before reading it. As it was tough going in places.
Overall, I thought it was a great read and kept me glued to it. I have read a few of Ruby Speechley’s books and loved them all, and this one was no exception; it was fantastic.
November 17, 2025
This is a tense, fast-paced psychological thriller that wastes no time pulling you straight into Vicki’s panic and heartbreak. The premise is instantly chilling: a mother who has done everything to protect her children comes home to find them gone—taken by the very man she’s been trying to escape. From that moment, the story barely lets up.
Speechley excels at capturing the raw fear and confusion Vicki experiences as she tries to untangle what Lee really wants and how far he’s willing to go. The added mystery surrounding Jess, the young babysitter, adds another unsettling layer that kept me guessing. Is Jess a victim, an accomplice, or something else entirely? The shifting loyalties and blurred trust lines make this an engaging read from start to finish.
The pacing is strong, with short, snappy chapters that build momentum and tension. While a few twists were slightly predictable, the emotional stakes remained high, and the unraveling of Lee’s manipulations was compelling. Vicki’s desperation, guilt, and fierce determination felt authentic and kept me firmly invested in her journey.
Speechley excels at capturing the raw fear and confusion Vicki experiences as she tries to untangle what Lee really wants and how far he’s willing to go. The added mystery surrounding Jess, the young babysitter, adds another unsettling layer that kept me guessing. Is Jess a victim, an accomplice, or something else entirely? The shifting loyalties and blurred trust lines make this an engaging read from start to finish.
The pacing is strong, with short, snappy chapters that build momentum and tension. While a few twists were slightly predictable, the emotional stakes remained high, and the unraveling of Lee’s manipulations was compelling. Vicki’s desperation, guilt, and fierce determination felt authentic and kept me firmly invested in her journey.
November 5, 2025
Told from multiple points of view; Vicki who is estranged from husband Lee, Debbie who is Lee's sister and Jess who lives next door to Vicki and often babysits for her. This book started with so much promise, the prologue hooked me in from the get go, appearing to offer a psychological thriller full of twists, turns and red herrings. Sadly as the connections between the three ladies were revealed the plot lost the element of surprise with the outcome so obvious. I became increasingly frustrated with Lee and Debbie who continually refused to share secrets that would have spared the children from horrible experiences. As a loving father/aunt it seems unrealistic that neither of them opened up. For me the book's title is a touch misleading, there is a definite mismatch between my interpretation of what 'Stolen' would mean and the actual plot.
I am sure this will appeal to lovers of family sagas with deceit, secrets and a bit of suspense, it just wasn't gritty enough for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
I am sure this will appeal to lovers of family sagas with deceit, secrets and a bit of suspense, it just wasn't gritty enough for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
November 15, 2025
**ARC READ**
This started off so strong.
It had mystery and suspense. So much plot lines that all kept me guessing.
It all fell short. Everything that happened to Vicki and her kids could have been avoided had she not been such a terrible mother. She doesn't deserve to have them in her care, what do you mean a man you've been seeing for a few months has already met your children and at 6/7 months is having sleepovers while you have a 6 year old daughter at home?!
Vicki annoyed me so much in everything she done and said. Jess annoyed me too because why does a 17 year old not have the sense to call the police after an attempted break in?
What do you mean Debbie just let Marc spend time with her family after finding out his real identity??
Everyone in this book has approximately 2 brain cells between them.
I really wish they acted like normal people because the actual plot was good, however I do feel a lot for Marcs past could have been fleshed out more to understand him better.
Jail for every single character please for being so dumb.
This started off so strong.
It had mystery and suspense. So much plot lines that all kept me guessing.
It all fell short. Everything that happened to Vicki and her kids could have been avoided had she not been such a terrible mother. She doesn't deserve to have them in her care, what do you mean a man you've been seeing for a few months has already met your children and at 6/7 months is having sleepovers while you have a 6 year old daughter at home?!
Vicki annoyed me so much in everything she done and said. Jess annoyed me too because why does a 17 year old not have the sense to call the police after an attempted break in?
What do you mean Debbie just let Marc spend time with her family after finding out his real identity??
Everyone in this book has approximately 2 brain cells between them.
I really wish they acted like normal people because the actual plot was good, however I do feel a lot for Marcs past could have been fleshed out more to understand him better.
Jail for every single character please for being so dumb.
November 16, 2025
Phew! Wow, this one builds suspicion and suspense right from the start!
Vicki is just trying to protect her children and move on with her life, after splitting from her husband who is seemingly spiralling down into a world of drugs and chaos.
But then the children are taken, while babysitter Jess is on duty. Things go from bad to worse when Jess also disappears. Just who can you trust? It would seem everyone has at least one secret if not more!
This twists and turns and keeps throwing you in different directions, then you reach 50% and another bombshell drops! Despite working out some of the twists it really does keep you wondering if you are thinking along the right lines or not!
It’s hard to know which characters to care for most, there seems like so much suspicion everywhere. As time goes on I really warmed to Vicki, as well as Jess. Debbie certainly grew on me too, even if I wanted to tell her to speak out at times!!
All in all a very fast paced read. One you won’t want to put down!
Vicki is just trying to protect her children and move on with her life, after splitting from her husband who is seemingly spiralling down into a world of drugs and chaos.
But then the children are taken, while babysitter Jess is on duty. Things go from bad to worse when Jess also disappears. Just who can you trust? It would seem everyone has at least one secret if not more!
This twists and turns and keeps throwing you in different directions, then you reach 50% and another bombshell drops! Despite working out some of the twists it really does keep you wondering if you are thinking along the right lines or not!
It’s hard to know which characters to care for most, there seems like so much suspicion everywhere. As time goes on I really warmed to Vicki, as well as Jess. Debbie certainly grew on me too, even if I wanted to tell her to speak out at times!!
All in all a very fast paced read. One you won’t want to put down!
November 21, 2025
OMG!!!!! What a roller coaster ride this one was!!!!! There was so much going on in this book and it was awesome. I love that every chapter was filled with drama. It made me hooked and made me want to swipe through this book super fast just to find out what was going to happen next. I would also recommend putting everything on hold for this one. You are not going want to put this down. I don’t even know where to start my review. How about this book was filled with deep dark secrets that were bursting at the seams to come out. I was shocked and horrified when everything did come out but it definitely made for a good read. Now I want to talk characters. They were each written perfectly for the story line. I loved that. But what made this book great was that ending. I was like WOW!!!!! Never guessed it. I’ve read several of this authors books and enjoyed them all. This one was no different and I would highly recommend this one to everyone. It was my favorite by this author so far. I can’t wait to read her next one.
October 20, 2025
Review of ‘Stolen’ by Ruby Speechley, due to be published on 15 November 2025 by Boldwood Books.
A multiple point of view storyline following - Vicki, who is separated from Lee and mum to Alfie and Bella - Jess, next door neighbour and babysitter - Lee and his sister Debbie - Marc, Vicki’s new boyfriend and boss - Cassie and Dom, parents to Jess.
This book had everything you could want from a thriller - love triangles, deception, secrets and lies. All is not as it seems and at least one character has something to hide. Fingers of suspicion are pointed just about everywhere - and just when you think you’ve cracked it, another possible theory comes slamming in to throw you in a different direction.
A tense, fast paced thriller, with some really unlikeable characters and some that you wish would wake up and see what is happening around them. My first book of Ruby’s - that will certainly not be my last. A recommended read.
A multiple point of view storyline following - Vicki, who is separated from Lee and mum to Alfie and Bella - Jess, next door neighbour and babysitter - Lee and his sister Debbie - Marc, Vicki’s new boyfriend and boss - Cassie and Dom, parents to Jess.
This book had everything you could want from a thriller - love triangles, deception, secrets and lies. All is not as it seems and at least one character has something to hide. Fingers of suspicion are pointed just about everywhere - and just when you think you’ve cracked it, another possible theory comes slamming in to throw you in a different direction.
A tense, fast paced thriller, with some really unlikeable characters and some that you wish would wake up and see what is happening around them. My first book of Ruby’s - that will certainly not be my last. A recommended read.
November 18, 2025
This is my first read by this author and honestly, I never tire of finding great new thriller authors.
This book drew me in instantly when I saw this front cover image.
The image and title suggesting that there could be missing children involved and I knew that I'd be hooked from the start.
This was actually quite a unique storyline - not something I've come across before.
With a lovely triangle and so many lies that kept me guessing.
I loved that what seemed like a cut and dried suspect and motive kept twisting and turning making me look at so many different theories and suspects along the way.
I don't know why I love this kind of story as I can't imagine a bigger nightmare than your children going missing - whoever is to blame - but I always find that I connect so much with the characters and become so immersed in the story that it hits harder.
The writing style was perfect, with a multi pov format which allowed the whole storyline to unfold gradually, but with such a chilling atmosphere and a pace that raced from start to finish.
This was a great first read and I'm excited to read more from this author in the future.
This book drew me in instantly when I saw this front cover image.
The image and title suggesting that there could be missing children involved and I knew that I'd be hooked from the start.
This was actually quite a unique storyline - not something I've come across before.
With a lovely triangle and so many lies that kept me guessing.
I loved that what seemed like a cut and dried suspect and motive kept twisting and turning making me look at so many different theories and suspects along the way.
I don't know why I love this kind of story as I can't imagine a bigger nightmare than your children going missing - whoever is to blame - but I always find that I connect so much with the characters and become so immersed in the story that it hits harder.
The writing style was perfect, with a multi pov format which allowed the whole storyline to unfold gradually, but with such a chilling atmosphere and a pace that raced from start to finish.
This was a great first read and I'm excited to read more from this author in the future.
October 4, 2025
Vicki and Lee are separated, due to his addiction, and losing his job. Vicki is romantically involved with Marc, her boss.
Jess, the teenage neighbour is babysitting when there is an incident with her school bullies, and she is rescued by Lee.
Wow! So much going on in this thriller. Trigger warning - misogyny and grooming.
Ruby Speechley has done an excellent job of showing that monsters live among us wearing human faces, and acting like caring and normal people.
This book is truly unputdownable. To think that one person has destroyed lives - neighbours and family - spanning a few decades!
Twisty, chilling, dark, suspenseful, emotional and taut with menace, you will be kept guessing until the end.
I would like to have known if the bullies were served punishment though.
You won't regret picking up this page turner.
Jess, the teenage neighbour is babysitting when there is an incident with her school bullies, and she is rescued by Lee.
Wow! So much going on in this thriller. Trigger warning - misogyny and grooming.
Ruby Speechley has done an excellent job of showing that monsters live among us wearing human faces, and acting like caring and normal people.
This book is truly unputdownable. To think that one person has destroyed lives - neighbours and family - spanning a few decades!
Twisty, chilling, dark, suspenseful, emotional and taut with menace, you will be kept guessing until the end.
I would like to have known if the bullies were served punishment though.
You won't regret picking up this page turner.
November 6, 2025
Vicki did everything sh could to keep her kids safe from her volatile ex. She comes home one afternoon to find her babysitter in tears and her children are missing.Lee insisted he was keeping the children. Vicki believed he had coerced the babysitter into helping him. But then the baby disappears.
This tense thriller is every parent's worst fear. I was quickly pulled into the story and did not put the book down until I had turned the last page. The tension and the sense of fear builds throughout. There were lots of twists, some you will see coming, others not so much. This story is told from multiple points of view. I kept guessing what was happening. This is a quick and easy read.
Published 15th November 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RubySpeechley for my ARC of #Stolen in exchange for an honest review.
This tense thriller is every parent's worst fear. I was quickly pulled into the story and did not put the book down until I had turned the last page. The tension and the sense of fear builds throughout. There were lots of twists, some you will see coming, others not so much. This story is told from multiple points of view. I kept guessing what was happening. This is a quick and easy read.
Published 15th November 2025
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #RubySpeechley for my ARC of #Stolen in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2025
Thrilling fast-paced domestic thriller, Stolen will have you on the edge of your seat!
Vicki and Lee are getting a divorce. Vicki is already dating Marc, from work. Lee has to deal with some drug problems in order to see his kids.
One night while Jess, the young neighbor, is babysitting the kids, Lee comes and takes Alfie and Bella. The next morning Cassie goes into panic because Jess is missing. Did Lee take her and the kids as well? What does Lee have planned for the kids and the babysitter?
Very thrilling book with lots of twists. I don't have children but I can empathize with both mothers. I could feel their panic, pain and despair. I enjoyed the lies, secrets and betrayal. Overall, a great read!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Vicki and Lee are getting a divorce. Vicki is already dating Marc, from work. Lee has to deal with some drug problems in order to see his kids.
One night while Jess, the young neighbor, is babysitting the kids, Lee comes and takes Alfie and Bella. The next morning Cassie goes into panic because Jess is missing. Did Lee take her and the kids as well? What does Lee have planned for the kids and the babysitter?
Very thrilling book with lots of twists. I don't have children but I can empathize with both mothers. I could feel their panic, pain and despair. I enjoyed the lies, secrets and betrayal. Overall, a great read!
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
November 21, 2025
This book is an easy, quick read. The prologue does pull you in and the title and description are engaging. However, I feel there is a disconnect between the title and the actual story.
Many of the actions of these characters were a bit hard to understand and that knocked down my rating significantly.
Also, there is constant description of one character as being a drug addict and an unfit parent. It turns out his drug of choice is marijuana. It is a massive stretch to keep implying that there were so many problems and difficulties. I think if the author really wanted to use this plot point she should have considered a different drug - even alcohol might have been a better choice. This point alone significantly impacted the story for me.
I have read other stories by this author that I enjoyed more than this one.
Many of the actions of these characters were a bit hard to understand and that knocked down my rating significantly.
Also, there is constant description of one character as being a drug addict and an unfit parent. It turns out his drug of choice is marijuana. It is a massive stretch to keep implying that there were so many problems and difficulties. I think if the author really wanted to use this plot point she should have considered a different drug - even alcohol might have been a better choice. This point alone significantly impacted the story for me.
I have read other stories by this author that I enjoyed more than this one.
October 7, 2025
Vicky and Lee are estranged and Vicky is seeing her boss Marc. Lee distrust Marc's motives but Vicky cannot see beyond the wonderful life she envisages in the future. Lee takes matter into his own hands by taking the children, and a simple custody battle develops into something much deeper.
Added to the drama is Vicky's young neighbour Jess who has her own secrets and mysteriously disappears.
This was a dark, disturbing read full of manipulation and distrust. I found Vicky very naive and trusting but i guess it's easy for the reader to read between the lines and see what's in front of her rather than being in her position.
The subject is very on point at the moment and the storyline kept me hooked
Added to the drama is Vicky's young neighbour Jess who has her own secrets and mysteriously disappears.
This was a dark, disturbing read full of manipulation and distrust. I found Vicky very naive and trusting but i guess it's easy for the reader to read between the lines and see what's in front of her rather than being in her position.
The subject is very on point at the moment and the storyline kept me hooked
November 28, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Vicki is recently separated from her husband, Lee, who has a drug problem, and is getting serious with her boss, Marc who used to bee Lee’s boss as well. One night when Vicki is out with Marc, Vicki’s kids are kidnapped by Lee and their babysitter also disappears.
This book was entertaining and there was a lot going on. At some point I felt like there was too much going on and it became tough to follow. I thought the ending was a little far-fetched but that is common with the genre. There was also an explanation or 2 that I didn’t completely follow. But, I’ve read several books from this author and I’m sure I will read more.
Vicki is recently separated from her husband, Lee, who has a drug problem, and is getting serious with her boss, Marc who used to bee Lee’s boss as well. One night when Vicki is out with Marc, Vicki’s kids are kidnapped by Lee and their babysitter also disappears.
This book was entertaining and there was a lot going on. At some point I felt like there was too much going on and it became tough to follow. I thought the ending was a little far-fetched but that is common with the genre. There was also an explanation or 2 that I didn’t completely follow. But, I’ve read several books from this author and I’m sure I will read more.
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