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Lockdown

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I’ve meticulously planned my escape. But fate has other plans…

Today’s the day. The things I’ve packed are hidden away and I’m waiting for the go-ahead to collect the keys to the new house.

I’m so close to escaping Justin’s moods, his drinking and his violent tendencies, which are gradually getting worse. His promises of change mean nothing anymore and I’ve got to get away from him.

But a national lockdown has just been announced.

My current four walls are now my prison and my dreams of freedom lay in tatters. Pregnant, asthmatic and terrified, the danger outside feels deadlier than the danger within, so I have no choice other than to accept my current fate. After all, we’re all in this together, right?

Wrong. Justin now has me exactly where he wants me, and the three weeks of government restrictions stretch before me like a gaping void.

As my life spirals into despair, I navigate the darkest corners of my empty existence and I’m sinking fast. Justin severs my contact with family and friends and his coercive control tightens like a noose. While the outside world is in turmoil, my deadliest adversary lurks within - the person I’m forced to live with.

With concerned neighbours attempting to reach out to me, Justin’s sinister web around the two of us tightens, especially when the help that’s being offered poses a direct threat to him. The situation is unbearable, and things eventually reach a breaking point.

Either one of us could survive the inevitable confrontation.

And either one of us could die.

Audible Audio

First published January 29, 2024

696 people are currently reading
1052 people want to read

About the author

Maria Frankland

97 books542 followers
Maria Frankland has a dubious internet search history and a very worried mother-in-law. However, neither of these things can stop her writing gripping psychological thrillers in which you’ll never find a happy-ever-after.

Her novels are mostly set in Yorkshire where you’ll hear the accent through all her characters. These are people you could live next door to, or closer still… don’t say you haven’t been warned.

Maria’s novels are fast-paced, down to earth and realistic. You never know what’s around the corner…

Find out more about Maria at https://www.mariafrankland.co.uk. Whilst you’re there, you can download your free novella – The Brother-in-Law.

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5 stars
962 (40%)
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783 (33%)
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459 (19%)
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110 (4%)
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39 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
Profile Image for NILTON TEIXEIRA.
1,276 reviews640 followers
October 19, 2024
This was my first book by this author.

It’s a thriller domestic drama, without the thrills, around spousal abuse and set in the beginning of the pandemic.

I did appreciate the concept and the writing, but the storytelling missed the mark for me. I felt totally detached from the characters.

The development of the storyline was good, but repetitive to the point to consider it tiresome.

The last 30% was more interesting, and I really liked the conclusion.

I will check the other books by this author.
Profile Image for Laura.
826 reviews121 followers
September 25, 2024
Well, this was sadly a bit of a snooze inducing read. I actually liked the idea of a domestic thriller set during the early days of the Coronavirus pandemic, but the author failed to capture the tension and unease of those first few days and weeks when the world suddenly stopped functioning and people were confined to their homes.

Melissa is heavily pregnant with her third child and stuck at home with her abusive husband while her older children are locked down with their father. The dialogue between her and Justin, the husband, reads forced and removed from how people genuinely speak. I’ve noted this within other books of a similar genre; the author writes what looks good on paper but doesn’t translate well as a reader interpreting it to spoken words.

The storyline trundles along without much happening until the final third of the book. Then the final events feel a bit rushed and unrealistic. The final straw came for me when Melissa’s friend, who is a nurse in ICU, just stands and watches as her patient (Justin) collapses until she realises her colleague is watching and springs into action. Yes, Justin is an abusive POS but really? Finally, the author throws in that Justin’s son might just also be an abusive monster as final lazy attempt to create some shock value.

Not the worst book I’ve read in 2024 but it comes close.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Donna Mallery.
958 reviews87 followers
January 12, 2024
I was blessed as 1 out of 50 to get this ARC from Maria. I love her books, and this was no exception! We have the familiar theme of spousal abuse, but it isn’t over the top like so many novels. Thankfully Justin gives her some sense of freedom instead of locking her in a basement somewhere. However! We have the Coronavirus subject which really causes the Lockdown, but in turn it leaves Melissa with no other place available! At least she figures she needs to get out before it becomes too late. And she has some nosy neighbors and a supporting friend! All in all, it was an easy read and did have a nice twist that I didn’t expect! There’s also another part that I really love, but, alas, it’s a spoiler!
Profile Image for Becca allan Carr.
37 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2024
Not only did this book take you back to a horrible time when we all felt trapped but to then realise how seriously trapped some people actually were in this situation is awful!
Profile Image for C.A. Powers.
Author 2 books74 followers
February 9, 2024
In "Lockdown" by Maria Frankland readers are taken on a gripping journey through the harrowing experience of Melissa, a woman desperate to escape her abüsive marriage. The book skillfully combines the themes of DV and the COVID pandemic, creating a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Melissa's determination to leave her husband, Justin, is palpable from the very beginning. I can not tell you how much I hated Justin throughout this story. Great job to Maria for making me feel such a strong emotion towards a character.

Maria expertly captures the suffocating atmosphere within the house, with Melissa being trapped inside her home with her abûser, making me feel the anxiety and fear that Melissa experiences.

Maria's writing is engaging and evocative, painting a vivid picture of Melissa's struggles. The pacing is excellent, with the tension steadily building throughout the book.

This is absolutely my favorite of Maria's. I highly recommend it, so go out and grab yourself a copy lol.
Profile Image for Rachel.
529 reviews
January 13, 2024
Huge thanks to Maria for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Set to publish 1/29/24
This had me gripped and loved the ending
the awful main male characters name was spot on as it’s also my horrid exs name. Very fitting Maria!👏🏻
Profile Image for Pheadra.
1,062 reviews56 followers
January 10, 2024
I enjoyed this story about a woman suffering from spousal abuse, being confined with the perpetrator during the Covid19 pandemic lockdown.

Justin is an abusive bully who blames all his problems on his ex-wife, Lynette, the son he shares with her Cameron, turning on him, his current, pregnant wife Melissa, the neighbours being nosy etc. In fact, his list of who is to blame for all his disasters is only surpassed by the amount of alcohol he consumes on a daily basis.

Melissa, herself a divorcee with two children, realises Justin's true colours when she is pregnant with their baby, and her plan to escape is scuppered by the strict governmental lockdown announcement. Thus begin the fun and games with Justin, a woman who moves into the block of flats directly across from their home, a pub-owner Justin is blackmailing, and Melissa's relationships with her ex-husband Rick and the children they share.
A page-turner but more importantly a realistic account of domestic violence, police involvement, and limitations to address such situations, I think this a worthy read for any woman feeling trapped by domestic abuse. It is also current and relevant to have raised such disturbing circumstances during the Covid pandemic. A clever ending! 4 stars
Profile Image for Gales Tales70.
290 reviews13 followers
March 16, 2024
Excellent

Really good reading and I thought I’d guessed the ending part way through but was wrong and never imagined who dunnit!
Profile Image for Patricia A.
202 reviews14 followers
January 11, 2024
REVIEW OF LOCKDOWN by Maria Frankland
This suspenseful novel was somewhat disturbing because it brought up overwhelming control issues for me which made me review my own concerns regarding that topic by resonating with me and adding depth to my overall experience of the book. It was thought-provoking in the way the emotional and physical abuse was portrayed, which only 10 to 15 years ago would not have been recognized as that relevant. It inspired me to review my previous relationships and recognize the existence of the ongoing abuse to which I was subjected. It made me want to conceptualize and share my own experiences of trauma. As a result, the novel was a powerful testament to its ability to encourage self-expression and healing. An excellent read. Highly recommended.

Profile Image for Elizabeth.
215 reviews
January 12, 2024
Yet another amazing book by Maria Frankland. She never fails to engage her readers from the very beginning of the book.

The characters were well developed. I could picture them clearly and sympathize with their current situations.

I can only imagine being locked down with a person that is deceptive, manipulative and uncaring. Leaving the house was not an option for the main character, Melissa, as she would risk getting infected by the virus. She was pregnant so she would be putting her life an her unborn baby’s life in danger.

I highly recommend this book. You will be amazed at the entire book not to mention the ending which was a real jaw dropper!
Profile Image for Morven Carmichael .
20 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2024
Thank you to Maria for giving me an ARC as part of her advanced reader group. Most of us probably know that domestic abuse soared during lockdown and this book is a testament to what victims of abuse, either male or female, would have been subjected to. At times, it hit close to the bone as I have been in a similar situation. I found myself getting so frustrated and angry at the whole situation. It was incredibly realistic and portrayed very well the thoughts and feelings of someone suffering domestic abuse. It definitely kept me gripped and hoping for a good outcome. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Jessica.
264 reviews11 followers
April 13, 2024
This is an absolutely terrifying read. I have never been more scared for anyone than I was for Melissa the main character in this book. My heart was pounding so many times. I was so frightened.
A real insider to life behind closed doors, especially during lockdown. What a really horrific time that was for many.
You couldnt tear this book from my hands, I wasn't putting this down until I finished it as I was that hooked.
Definitely will be recommending this book.
Profile Image for Jo Woodcock.
140 reviews7 followers
January 11, 2024
I was lucky to read this fantastic book before the release date. I love all of Maria Frankland books and again this didn't disappoint! I read this within a day. Right from the start it's a complete page Turner wanting to know what happens. Melissa is stuck in a relationship in lockdown with Justin (who is a nasty piece of work) x this is a complete must read x well done Maria Frankland you did it again x
226 reviews7 followers
June 3, 2024
Although part of this book were super tough to read, I found it very compelling. Especially since I'm sure this kind of thing did happen while we were all in lockdown. The one thing I will say, though, is that you should definitely read the book and not do the audio version. The narrator has an absolutely horrific voice. it almost caused me to not finish a couple of times.
247 reviews3 followers
February 1, 2024
Omg another amazing book by Maria Frankland. The horrors of living through Covid with an abusive partner. I read this in a day it was impossible to put down. Highly recommend it
Profile Image for Leona.
1,501 reviews
March 7, 2024
Lockdown.

An extremely tense and gripping domestic thriller that had me hooked from the first page. This is a book that sent shivers down my spine at times.
10 reviews
March 9, 2024
wow

An amazing book read in a couple of days a real page turner . Please read this book it’s probably very true to lock down for some family’s
Profile Image for Rach Fordham.
46 reviews1 follower
April 1, 2024
5 million stars for this book. Had me gripped from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down. I’m gutted I’ve finished it. I didn’t want it to end!
Profile Image for Sammy Jackson.
574 reviews13 followers
February 25, 2024
Read a couple of Maria's book, haven't disappointed, up there with frieda mcfadden for me
Profile Image for Patsy.
707 reviews21 followers
February 13, 2024
An easy read popcorn thriller, though not so many thrills along the way. Nothing here to wow you. A fairly standard predictable tale.
Profile Image for Gemma.
18 reviews
March 5, 2024
Definitely brings back the lockdown vibes. The twist at the end I didn’t see coming at all!
Profile Image for Eva Edge.
1,242 reviews43 followers
August 30, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lockdown by Maria Frankland is a detailed and heart-pounding domestic thriller about obsession and survival.
It was so heart-breaking to read reality behind closed doors during the lockdown. It is already heavy in the normal world but then imagine that you don't have a choice but to stay even though you are ready to leave!
Chapter by chapter things were escalating and my heart was crying for Melisa and her hopeless situation. The end is dramatic, some twists come in and all you have left is hope...

Four months pregnant Melisa is finally ready to leave her abusive husband Justin. She has saved money, arranged property, and packed stuff, all she needs is a key and pick up kids from school and she will be safe. She has limited time, she must do it before Justin returns from work... But everything goes completely wrong: kids don't want to come home, she can't reach the estate agent and Justin returns 4 hours early... And then Boris Johnson declared - YOU MUST STAY IN! So now THERE's NO ESCAPE!

This is a must-read if you are questioning your relationships or gift it to someone who you are worried about!

This book really accurately brings back lockdown memories. When you read now it feels like a dystopian novel but just a couple of years ago this was the reality!
Profile Image for Behind The Bookshelf .
222 reviews27 followers
January 10, 2024
ARC Review: "Lockdown" by Maria Frankland
Publication Date: 01/29/24

Having explored several fiction books set during the COVID-19 lockdown, I must express my utmost admiration for Maria Frankland's latest work.

"Lockdown" introduces a character that embodies the concept of a "love to hate" individual, in the form of Justin. As the story unfolds, his pregnant wife Melissa gradually unravels the true nature of his character, allowing readers to delve into a complex and captivating narrative. Furthermore, the introduction of a new neighbor who also becomes ensnared in Justin's web adds another layer of intrigue to the story.

Frankland's talent for crafting relatable characters remains evident throughout Lockdown. She skillfully explores the realistic challenges faced during a period of confinement, providing readers with a genuine portrayal of the unique circumstances surrounding lockdown experiences. Moreover, she injects a clever and unexpected twist into the plot, ensuring that readers are continually engaged and surprised.

"Lockdown" is unequivocally a book I wholeheartedly recommend. Maria Frankland consistently delivers gripping narratives that not only captivate readers, but also leaves them eagerly anticipating her future releases.


Profile Image for Gary Dowden.
523 reviews5 followers
March 2, 2025
Lockdown - as the title suggests - is set during those dark and scary times during 2020 when Covid19 was new to us all. We are introduced to pregnant mum of two Melissa who is planning on leaving Justin, her abusive and controlling husband, however with plans in place, the country is placed into Lockdown and she is faced with an unknown length of time in the same house as Justin 24/7. Maria Frankland is fantastic at creating thoroughly dislikable characters and writing about everyday situations and this is no exception. Melissa's struggles to cope with Justin's behaviour are hard to read and I would imagine this was a very real and very frightening reality for many during 2020. Told almost entirely from Melissa's viewpoint, this rattles along at a fast pace and is a stark reminder of how tough things were for many during lockdown. Equally its a stark reminder of what, unfortunately, happens all too frequently behind closed doors. A tough read and "enjoyable" isnt really an appropriate word to describe it, but is well worth a read if you like a strong domestic psychological thriller
Profile Image for Julie Haigh.
789 reviews1,005 followers
May 5, 2025
Excellent read.

This is the first book I've read by this author, and I'd definitely read more.

The writing was very engaging; telling you some things; keeping you intrigued with others. It was all very believable, as lockdown did happen, and controlling partners are at large all too often.  Everything was so well-portrayed. 

Constructed of fairly short chapters, which keep it moving, it becomes a gripping story, with great pace. I found it to be incredibly accurate too.

Set in Yorkshire, so, close to home for me, and indeed, these circumstances are happening all the time, wherever the location. I read mostly non-fiction;  particularly memoirs, medical memoirs, and travel memoirs. I do enjoy a change-but when I read fiction, it has to be believable; there's nothing worse than enjoying a crime fiction book, for it all to fall flat and far-fetched at the end, just to wrap it up. This doesn't, and keeps up the same quality all the way through. I'm glad to see Maria Frankland has many more books for me to read.
345 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2024
Really good book I do enjoy this authors books .
It starts with neighbours out on the street watching the police batter the door to a house in .
It deals with two issues the lockdown during Covid and domestic abuse during that time both of which the author has dealt with well .
Melissa is married to Justin they were happily married but now things have changed and he is not the man she married . She is seeing a different side to him completely and not a nice side . Her ex husband had taken her two kids away as he doesn’t like her new husband or trust him not to hurt their kids leaving Melissa alone four months pregnant and vulnerable .
Her neighbours have all warned her about him and are looking out for her . Melissa plans to escape but her plans are destroyed when Justin finds out leaving her even more vulnerable . Trapped inside things go from bad to worse .
Highly recommend this book was hooked from get go .
Profile Image for Liv Jenni Blackburn.
150 reviews
March 6, 2024
Wow - I felt so weird reading a book that relived all of our lives during lockdown from the moment quarantine was announced and lives during lockdown including government announcements and furlough. Not to add that this was based in Leeds my home town. Not a ‘ thriller ‘ as such or like I’m used to, more emotive and heartbreaking - covering difficult topics. Short chapters, short book, quick read.

Melissa - in an abusive relationship with a man who is mentally and physically abuse towards her - lockdown is announced and her plans to leave him are ruined. This book explores the lockdown and Melissa’s journey to survive each day trapped with the one thing that is killing her, not COVID, her husband. Who can help her when we have to keep our distance and how can she go through with having his baby with no contact to the outside world. A new neighbour days before lockdown offers some hope as she tries to speak to Melissa through the window, but who is she and why does she keep staring in, is she a threat or a help?

Utterly heartbreaking some of the topics this book covers, lockdown and the struggles of quarantine and not being able to see family, shielding during lockdown, domestic abuse, financial and mental abuse, and right at the end the truth - the apple never falls far from the free. I am certain there is going to be a follow up book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews

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