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Empty Shell
A pair of pink, silk underwear…
The quiet world of Melody and Jack Dickinson is about to be turned upside down. Twenty years of marriage hangs in the balance when Melody finds out about Jack’s infidelity. The betrayal is made worse when Melody discovers his lover is Serena Rowland, a young woman who works at Melody’s law firm.
A receipt from an overpriced hotel…
Harsh words are exchanged before Melody storms off to work, determined to have Serena fired. But when Melody hears Serena was murdered over the weekend, everything changes. Serena’s body is found beaten and strangled with a pair of pink, silk panties, in the same hotel that Jack had admitted staying at over the weekend. Within seconds of hearing the news, Melody’s life spins out of control when Jack calls in a panic. The police are at their home to arrest him for Serena’s murder.
Pictures of a young woman’s scantily clad torso on a cell phone…
Was she married to a monster? One who beat and strangled the young woman to death, or was Jack set up? Did Melody’s own dark secret, hidden inside her heart for years, have something to do with the nightmare they suddenly find themselves in?
Melody and Jack are about to discover that one fateful mistake will destroy many.
The quiet world of Melody and Jack Dickinson is about to be turned upside down. Twenty years of marriage hangs in the balance when Melody finds out about Jack’s infidelity. The betrayal is made worse when Melody discovers his lover is Serena Rowland, a young woman who works at Melody’s law firm.
A receipt from an overpriced hotel…
Harsh words are exchanged before Melody storms off to work, determined to have Serena fired. But when Melody hears Serena was murdered over the weekend, everything changes. Serena’s body is found beaten and strangled with a pair of pink, silk panties, in the same hotel that Jack had admitted staying at over the weekend. Within seconds of hearing the news, Melody’s life spins out of control when Jack calls in a panic. The police are at their home to arrest him for Serena’s murder.
Pictures of a young woman’s scantily clad torso on a cell phone…
Was she married to a monster? One who beat and strangled the young woman to death, or was Jack set up? Did Melody’s own dark secret, hidden inside her heart for years, have something to do with the nightmare they suddenly find themselves in?
Melody and Jack are about to discover that one fateful mistake will destroy many.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2014
About the author
Ashley Fontainne
51 books147 followersAshley writes in multiple genres ranging from mystery/thrillers to suspenseful paranormal to dark comedy. The recipient of numerous awards for her gritty, no-holds barred style of writing, her stories will captivate and pull you inside the lives of her characters and intricate plot lines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 14, 2014
A husband struggling with his wants and desires... A wife struggling with regret and a twenty-year-old secret that can tear them apart. The other woman who wants to fulfill his every need...
Sounds like your typical love triangle until someone crosses the thin line between love and hate into murder, leaving one piece of the triangle nothing but an empty shell.
Then, the twists, turns, dips, and loop-the-loops, like a heart-stopping roller coaster, begin. Wow! What a thrill ride that often had me shaking my fists at the characters while reaching for a tissue at the same time. Nothing is as it appears as Melody struggles with what she sees and hears versus what her heart and mind believe as she battles her inner demons and the forces around her, of which she has no control.
In the end, only her friends, family, and faith work together to keep her world from imploding as she digs up one secret after another to reveal the final piece of betrayal that starts an explosive chain of tragic events.
Sounds like your typical love triangle until someone crosses the thin line between love and hate into murder, leaving one piece of the triangle nothing but an empty shell.
Then, the twists, turns, dips, and loop-the-loops, like a heart-stopping roller coaster, begin. Wow! What a thrill ride that often had me shaking my fists at the characters while reaching for a tissue at the same time. Nothing is as it appears as Melody struggles with what she sees and hears versus what her heart and mind believe as she battles her inner demons and the forces around her, of which she has no control.
In the end, only her friends, family, and faith work together to keep her world from imploding as she digs up one secret after another to reveal the final piece of betrayal that starts an explosive chain of tragic events.
August 15, 2017
I received a free copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Melody Dickinson's life crashes around her when she discovers that her husband has been having an affair with a younger woman from the same law firm. Everything is complicated by the fact that this younger woman is found murdered.
I really liked the suspense of this novel. It was really interesting to see the shrinking of Melody's friendship circle as each new piece of information was revealed, and three new light on who possibly killed Serena and Jack. It was also nice to read it from Melody's perspective because it focussed on her emotions and her guilt and her support network. The very frequent references to religion was a bit much and it did feel like it was being shoved at the reader.
Sara Morsey was a brilliant narrator, sounding exactly as I expected Melody to sound. She had this fantastic southern drawl and it sounded really natural and perfect as Melody. I didn't like her as much with the male characters, possibly because I connected her to Melody so much.
Melody Dickinson's life crashes around her when she discovers that her husband has been having an affair with a younger woman from the same law firm. Everything is complicated by the fact that this younger woman is found murdered.
I really liked the suspense of this novel. It was really interesting to see the shrinking of Melody's friendship circle as each new piece of information was revealed, and three new light on who possibly killed Serena and Jack. It was also nice to read it from Melody's perspective because it focussed on her emotions and her guilt and her support network. The very frequent references to religion was a bit much and it did feel like it was being shoved at the reader.
Sara Morsey was a brilliant narrator, sounding exactly as I expected Melody to sound. She had this fantastic southern drawl and it sounded really natural and perfect as Melody. I didn't like her as much with the male characters, possibly because I connected her to Melody so much.
January 13, 2023
Ashley Fontainne is a must read author for me since I picked up the very first book. That being said, Empty Shell is not one of my favorites, though I did enjoy the mystery. She has an ability to start her books with a fantastic hook, making me continue flipping pages.
Over the years, I had watched too many of my friends go through this nightmare. Held them while they wept, hearts ripped apart.So many strong women turned into empty shells, nothing but former husks of themselves.
I was lost inside the empty shell of my womb, unable to find my way out of the darkness.
Secrets, betrayals, mystery, murder and loss fill the pages. Good friends can make life easier, so it’s a good think Melody as a couple. I didn’t see the biggest betrayal of all, and I love when an author can sneak in a surprise that leaves me shaking my head because I didn’t see it.
Ashley Fontainne has included many Christian references and I found, at times, it slowed the reading down for me. That may not be the case for others, so keep that in mind if Empty Shell sounds like a good fit for you.
I am looking forward to the next Ashley Fontainne story.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Empty Shell by Ashley Fontainne.
Over the years, I had watched too many of my friends go through this nightmare. Held them while they wept, hearts ripped apart.So many strong women turned into empty shells, nothing but former husks of themselves.
I was lost inside the empty shell of my womb, unable to find my way out of the darkness.
Secrets, betrayals, mystery, murder and loss fill the pages. Good friends can make life easier, so it’s a good think Melody as a couple. I didn’t see the biggest betrayal of all, and I love when an author can sneak in a surprise that leaves me shaking my head because I didn’t see it.
Ashley Fontainne has included many Christian references and I found, at times, it slowed the reading down for me. That may not be the case for others, so keep that in mind if Empty Shell sounds like a good fit for you.
I am looking forward to the next Ashley Fontainne story.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Empty Shell by Ashley Fontainne.
April 20, 2015
My original Empty Shell audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Empty Shell is a character oriented suspense story that combines murder mystery with Christianity.
Melody discovers that Jack, her husband of 20 odd years, has been having an affair with a younger woman. To make matters worse, this woman, Serena, has been working alongside Melody, who is a paralegal in a prominent law firm. But it doesn’t end there. Melody then discovers that Serena has just been found murdered in a hotel room. And to top it all off, all the evidence points to her cheating husband, Jack, as the number one suspect. When he is arrested and locked up, Melody’s world is threatening to fall apart, but she has the help and support of her best friend, her mother, her husband’s best friend and her boss Roger, and above all, her faith. All is not as it seems though and Melody slowly works out that maybe she should have believed Jack’s pleas of being innocent in the murder of Serena. Melody sets out to find justice for Jack as more and more lies, secrets and cover-ups are revealed.
Empty Shell started off really strong. The characters are well drawn and you really get a feeling for each one. As the story went on though, the frequent references to religion became a bit too much for me. The story really focuses in on Melody’s emotions and her feelings of guilt. That part is well executed and will certainly tug at some readers'/listeners’ heartstrings. I would have liked more of a thrilling mystery with a murderer that was less easy to predict. However, as a slow-burn cozy mystery, this is well written and if you enjoy Christian fiction, then this will definitely appeal.
I enjoyed the audio narration more than I did the book if that makes sense. Empty Shell is written from the first person perspective of Melody, and Sara Morsey suited that character perfectly. Her narration was very natural and delivered with a wonderful Southern drawl that made Melody come alive. She sounded just as you would Melody expect to sound. She was equally skillful with the different male characters. All characters sounded like authentic people, no silly voices here. There were no problems with the production.
Audiobook provided for review by the audiobookreviewer.com
Empty Shell is a character oriented suspense story that combines murder mystery with Christianity.
Melody discovers that Jack, her husband of 20 odd years, has been having an affair with a younger woman. To make matters worse, this woman, Serena, has been working alongside Melody, who is a paralegal in a prominent law firm. But it doesn’t end there. Melody then discovers that Serena has just been found murdered in a hotel room. And to top it all off, all the evidence points to her cheating husband, Jack, as the number one suspect. When he is arrested and locked up, Melody’s world is threatening to fall apart, but she has the help and support of her best friend, her mother, her husband’s best friend and her boss Roger, and above all, her faith. All is not as it seems though and Melody slowly works out that maybe she should have believed Jack’s pleas of being innocent in the murder of Serena. Melody sets out to find justice for Jack as more and more lies, secrets and cover-ups are revealed.
Empty Shell started off really strong. The characters are well drawn and you really get a feeling for each one. As the story went on though, the frequent references to religion became a bit too much for me. The story really focuses in on Melody’s emotions and her feelings of guilt. That part is well executed and will certainly tug at some readers'/listeners’ heartstrings. I would have liked more of a thrilling mystery with a murderer that was less easy to predict. However, as a slow-burn cozy mystery, this is well written and if you enjoy Christian fiction, then this will definitely appeal.
I enjoyed the audio narration more than I did the book if that makes sense. Empty Shell is written from the first person perspective of Melody, and Sara Morsey suited that character perfectly. Her narration was very natural and delivered with a wonderful Southern drawl that made Melody come alive. She sounded just as you would Melody expect to sound. She was equally skillful with the different male characters. All characters sounded like authentic people, no silly voices here. There were no problems with the production.
Audiobook provided for review by the audiobookreviewer.com
February 23, 2015
This is the second book I've read by Ashley Fontainne and honestly she is fast becoming an author that I will read anything by her. She is a master of suspense and intrigue!!
Melodys life is changed forever when she finds a pair of panties in her husbands briefcase. It's not just the fact that her husband cheated on her with someone she works with, it's the fact that that someone turned up beaten to death in the hotel room where the affair was taking place, it's also the fact that her husband is the number one suspect and is arrested for the murder! How is she supposed to live with the fact that her husband is a monster? Despite his continued declaration of innocence, the evidence is overwhelming and she may just have to face the facts. But is all as it seems? Who can Melody believe and how can she piece her life back together?
So ya, this book was so so good. I flew through this book in a matter of 2 days and was sad to turn the last page.
My heart broke for Melody so any times. Her life is turned on it's axis and poor Melody struggles to fix it. She loves her husband and is heartbroken when she finds out he cheated. They haven't been getting on well lately but Melody never thought he could betray her so completely. Then to hear that he may be a murderer!! It devastated her but she plows along because what else is there to do. She was such a strong character and I loved that about her. What she has to go through through out the book was horrible yet she kept her belief and her fighting spirit.
This author sure knows how to throw the reader off the scent. At no stage did I figure out the villain and for me that is a major bonus! I thought I knew who it was but I had no idea! She also makes her characters so believable and easily relatable. They are well thought out and developed.
Overall, Empty Shell was a magnificent and thrilling read. Through out the story there are twists and turns that will leave you reeling. There is betrayal, death, mystery and lies as well as shocking secrets revealed. You are left with a sense of shock and awe at the way Ashley Fontainne can grab you and leave you breathless.
I listened to the audio of this and loved it! Sara Morsey really did an awesome job of portraying Melody and her strength as well as her sorrow. She had a way of telling the story that was effortless and appealing.
Melodys life is changed forever when she finds a pair of panties in her husbands briefcase. It's not just the fact that her husband cheated on her with someone she works with, it's the fact that that someone turned up beaten to death in the hotel room where the affair was taking place, it's also the fact that her husband is the number one suspect and is arrested for the murder! How is she supposed to live with the fact that her husband is a monster? Despite his continued declaration of innocence, the evidence is overwhelming and she may just have to face the facts. But is all as it seems? Who can Melody believe and how can she piece her life back together?
So ya, this book was so so good. I flew through this book in a matter of 2 days and was sad to turn the last page.
My heart broke for Melody so any times. Her life is turned on it's axis and poor Melody struggles to fix it. She loves her husband and is heartbroken when she finds out he cheated. They haven't been getting on well lately but Melody never thought he could betray her so completely. Then to hear that he may be a murderer!! It devastated her but she plows along because what else is there to do. She was such a strong character and I loved that about her. What she has to go through through out the book was horrible yet she kept her belief and her fighting spirit.
This author sure knows how to throw the reader off the scent. At no stage did I figure out the villain and for me that is a major bonus! I thought I knew who it was but I had no idea! She also makes her characters so believable and easily relatable. They are well thought out and developed.
Overall, Empty Shell was a magnificent and thrilling read. Through out the story there are twists and turns that will leave you reeling. There is betrayal, death, mystery and lies as well as shocking secrets revealed. You are left with a sense of shock and awe at the way Ashley Fontainne can grab you and leave you breathless.
I listened to the audio of this and loved it! Sara Morsey really did an awesome job of portraying Melody and her strength as well as her sorrow. She had a way of telling the story that was effortless and appealing.
September 25, 2014
After twenty years of marriage and finding out they can’t have children, Melody Dickinson is hit with another blow. Her husband has been having an affair with a much younger girl from her workplace. Heated words ensue and Melody rushes off to her workplace determined to have the woman, Serena dismissed, only to discover she has been murdered, and her husband arrested as a suspect.
Empty Shell is a fast paced suspense novel where Melody’s life quickly goes out of control as the investigation points to her husband as the murderer. But she has a hard time reconciling the fact that she was married to someone who was so violent that he could brutally beat a woman like that and then strangle her to death. Melody longs to lay the blame on someone and eventually wonders if the blame should be laid at her own feet for a dark secret she has held from Jack for so many years. Could her secret have led to these dark days twenty years later?
There are quite a number of twists and turns in this novel and you will be surprised who the culprit in the case actually is and the motive for more than one murder. I found the pace of the book quite good except for a portion where there was too much talking and not enough action.
While the crime revolves around an affair, there are no sexually explicit scenes in the book. However, you should note that in this Christian fiction book there is some swearing.
I thought the characters were well-developed and realistic. The losses of the characters of their loved ones made me think about how I would feel if I were to go through the same losses with my loved ones.
I found the solution to the crime quite surprising because I was right, then changed my mind. I did have the motive totally wrong. I very much enjoyed Empty Shell. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy Christian suspense. I gave this book 4 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the author who provided a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
This review was published on my blog Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
Empty Shell is a fast paced suspense novel where Melody’s life quickly goes out of control as the investigation points to her husband as the murderer. But she has a hard time reconciling the fact that she was married to someone who was so violent that he could brutally beat a woman like that and then strangle her to death. Melody longs to lay the blame on someone and eventually wonders if the blame should be laid at her own feet for a dark secret she has held from Jack for so many years. Could her secret have led to these dark days twenty years later?
There are quite a number of twists and turns in this novel and you will be surprised who the culprit in the case actually is and the motive for more than one murder. I found the pace of the book quite good except for a portion where there was too much talking and not enough action.
While the crime revolves around an affair, there are no sexually explicit scenes in the book. However, you should note that in this Christian fiction book there is some swearing.
I thought the characters were well-developed and realistic. The losses of the characters of their loved ones made me think about how I would feel if I were to go through the same losses with my loved ones.
I found the solution to the crime quite surprising because I was right, then changed my mind. I did have the motive totally wrong. I very much enjoyed Empty Shell. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy Christian suspense. I gave this book 4 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the author who provided a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
This review was published on my blog Shelf Full of Books http://kathrynsshelffullofbooks.blogs...
October 7, 2014
Empty Shell
I absolutely loved this book! I was so impressed by it. Empty Shell is a mixture of suspense, thriller, mystery, christian & a touch of comedy in all the right places! This story is well written & kept me on the edge of my seat. There are so many twists & turns in this book. Just when I thought the story would be ending soon, something else would happen.
Melody & her husband Jack have been trying to have a baby for so many years . Just as they meet defeat, they start to drift apart. Little does Melody know this is because Jack has begun to stray. To make matters worse, it turns out the affair is with a co-worker of hers. I won't go into the details after this happens, but trust me, it will blow your mind. Lucky for Melody, she has a couple of close friends whom become her rock.
The infidelity is only the beginning of Melody's world falling apart. Testing melody's faith in her religion & leaning for God to help her have strength to go on. SO many things in this book shows how when when bad thing happens, there is usually a domino effect touching so many. This book will make us all think what we would do if we were in this spot.
I laughed & laughed over the TR Syndrome. OMG, sometimes the older generation is the funniest of all in the way they think & the way they say thing.
So far I have read almost all of this authors books & all are equally fantastic, yet so different too. I look forward to the next books Ashley Fontainne writes. Kudos for another fantastic read!
I absolutely loved this book! I was so impressed by it. Empty Shell is a mixture of suspense, thriller, mystery, christian & a touch of comedy in all the right places! This story is well written & kept me on the edge of my seat. There are so many twists & turns in this book. Just when I thought the story would be ending soon, something else would happen.
Melody & her husband Jack have been trying to have a baby for so many years . Just as they meet defeat, they start to drift apart. Little does Melody know this is because Jack has begun to stray. To make matters worse, it turns out the affair is with a co-worker of hers. I won't go into the details after this happens, but trust me, it will blow your mind. Lucky for Melody, she has a couple of close friends whom become her rock.
The infidelity is only the beginning of Melody's world falling apart. Testing melody's faith in her religion & leaning for God to help her have strength to go on. SO many things in this book shows how when when bad thing happens, there is usually a domino effect touching so many. This book will make us all think what we would do if we were in this spot.
I laughed & laughed over the TR Syndrome. OMG, sometimes the older generation is the funniest of all in the way they think & the way they say thing.
So far I have read almost all of this authors books & all are equally fantastic, yet so different too. I look forward to the next books Ashley Fontainne writes. Kudos for another fantastic read!
September 29, 2014
I would like to thank author Ashley Fontainne for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When Ashley contacted me and asked me to review her latest book I immediately said yes, I had read and reviewed The Lie by Ashley last and really enjoyed it, so how could I say no.
The first thing I want to mention is the cover, how intriguing is it?
When we first meet Melody, she is happily married to Jack, soon her world comes crashing down around her. She discovers Jacks affair with her co-worker Serena but worse is to come when Serena is found dead. Jack is then arrested for Serena's murder.
Ashley tells the story from Melodys POV and also in parts as though the reader is watching from the outside in when following other characters.
With every page I was gripped by the whole story, had Jack really killed Serena? Had past transgressions come back to haunt Melody and others in this gripping mystery?
I really liked Melody and felt so sorry for her being thrown into such a nightmare, not wanting to believe Jack had done such a horrible thing and trying get everyone else to believe her that he was innocent. Mel struggled as the story continued knowing who to trust.
A throughly gripping story that had me hooked from the first page to the last page.
When Ashley contacted me and asked me to review her latest book I immediately said yes, I had read and reviewed The Lie by Ashley last and really enjoyed it, so how could I say no.
The first thing I want to mention is the cover, how intriguing is it?
When we first meet Melody, she is happily married to Jack, soon her world comes crashing down around her. She discovers Jacks affair with her co-worker Serena but worse is to come when Serena is found dead. Jack is then arrested for Serena's murder.
Ashley tells the story from Melodys POV and also in parts as though the reader is watching from the outside in when following other characters.
With every page I was gripped by the whole story, had Jack really killed Serena? Had past transgressions come back to haunt Melody and others in this gripping mystery?
I really liked Melody and felt so sorry for her being thrown into such a nightmare, not wanting to believe Jack had done such a horrible thing and trying get everyone else to believe her that he was innocent. Mel struggled as the story continued knowing who to trust.
A throughly gripping story that had me hooked from the first page to the last page.
September 9, 2014
What would you do if your life spiraled out of control in a matter of hours? Everything you thought you knew and could hold onto were suddenly like quicksand beneath your feet. Who would you turn to?
This is the premise of award-winning Ashley Fontainne's latest suspense thriller. Right from the start, you're thrust headfirst into Melody Dickinson's life, which quickly becomes a nightmare.
As is typical with Ashley's works, the twists and turns come at you so fast, and seemingly out of nowhere, that you're left breathless. But among all the chaos and carnage that has become the lives of the Dickinson's, as well as peripheral characters who change in ways you don't expect, runs a thread of hope and healing to grasp.
Ashley excels at the thrilling suspense novels you've come to expect from her pen, but what makes her novels stand out from the crowd is her well-drawn characters, believable dialogue and actions, and the deep-seated faith, truth and love that shine through it all.
"Empty Shell" will take you to the darkest reaches of the human heart, but it will also lift you up to the peak of human love, understanding and forgiveness.
This is the premise of award-winning Ashley Fontainne's latest suspense thriller. Right from the start, you're thrust headfirst into Melody Dickinson's life, which quickly becomes a nightmare.
As is typical with Ashley's works, the twists and turns come at you so fast, and seemingly out of nowhere, that you're left breathless. But among all the chaos and carnage that has become the lives of the Dickinson's, as well as peripheral characters who change in ways you don't expect, runs a thread of hope and healing to grasp.
Ashley excels at the thrilling suspense novels you've come to expect from her pen, but what makes her novels stand out from the crowd is her well-drawn characters, believable dialogue and actions, and the deep-seated faith, truth and love that shine through it all.
"Empty Shell" will take you to the darkest reaches of the human heart, but it will also lift you up to the peak of human love, understanding and forgiveness.
September 29, 2014
A mystery encompassing the flow of human tides in life
The author has done it again and come forth with another brilliant “who done it?” mystery. Take Jack and Melody Dickinson married for twenty years, throw in two pairs of pink underpants owned by Serena Rowland discovered by Melody causing her to become aware of her husband’s infidelity with Serena, and then add various characters from Melody’s best friends, to her employer, Roger, and police investigators, a double to look like Jack, and hidden motives, and you will be buried reading a page-turner. The author is expert at describing her characters so that the reader absolutely is involved with them and she is also expert at throwing in cliff hangers off and on throughout the story.
I was totally immersed in this tale and recommend it to all readers who enjoy this genre. Although there are many dark actions, there is also a tremendous offering of religious thoughts, which demonstrate how human suffering can be alleviated and understood when using this particular philosophy.
This book was given to me as a complimentary copy for an honest review.
The author has done it again and come forth with another brilliant “who done it?” mystery. Take Jack and Melody Dickinson married for twenty years, throw in two pairs of pink underpants owned by Serena Rowland discovered by Melody causing her to become aware of her husband’s infidelity with Serena, and then add various characters from Melody’s best friends, to her employer, Roger, and police investigators, a double to look like Jack, and hidden motives, and you will be buried reading a page-turner. The author is expert at describing her characters so that the reader absolutely is involved with them and she is also expert at throwing in cliff hangers off and on throughout the story.
I was totally immersed in this tale and recommend it to all readers who enjoy this genre. Although there are many dark actions, there is also a tremendous offering of religious thoughts, which demonstrate how human suffering can be alleviated and understood when using this particular philosophy.
This book was given to me as a complimentary copy for an honest review.
Read
September 19, 2014Melody Dickinson’s life has turned inside out when she discovers the evidence of her husband’s infidelity. After a huge argument, Melody goes to work where the adulteress is a secretary and the daughter of one of the firm’s biggest client. She begs her boss to fire the girl, but she finds out instead Serena is dead – murdered at the hands of Melody’s husband, Jack. Melody wonders if she ever even knew her husband at all. Did the secrets between the Dickinsons lead to their marriage failing and the rage which killed her husband’s lover? EMPTY SHELL is a compelling drama with tidbits of biblical wisdom which helps Melody through her ordeal. Melody isn’t willing to give up on Jack and his innocence once she works though her doubts. The characters are well-developed and the reader follows along with Melody as she searches for the truth. EMPTY SHELL is a mystery which will keep you guessing until the explosive end.
September 10, 2014
***I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.***
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read that kept my attention throughout. Filled with murder, deception, and eventually forgiveness and reconciliation, "Empty Shell" will be a great addition to your ebook library.
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read that kept my attention throughout. Filled with murder, deception, and eventually forgiveness and reconciliation, "Empty Shell" will be a great addition to your ebook library.
October 3, 2014
Ashley Fontainne is getting better and better as a writer of mysteries and thrillers.
April 28, 2019
This book was recommended to me as a Christian thriller. Allow me to say that it certainly has twists and turns normally associated with thrillers, but the twists are seen long before they are revealed. The turns are somewhat predictable, even though they are painstakingly presented as not being. One of the red flags for me personally is the simple amount of curse words in this "Christian" book. On top of that is the amount of drunkenness that is presented as approved by God. The bad habits that the protagonist engages in is meant to show that "God just wants us to be happy." This is heretical drivel and nonsense. In addition to all of this, as if it was not bad enough already, is the heretical presentations of cartoonish concepts of angels as people who have gone on to heaven, the watching over us that some seem to think God needs help with.
If you read the other reviews, you will find the nagging question behind all of this. Why write a book meant to appeal to Christians while you so blatantly mock the Bible? Why attempt to put so much religion in a book that is not meant to appeal to Christians? The author missed the mark on this one. About the only reason that I gave it two stars instead of one is that there were very few grammatical or spelling errors (which seem to pop up more and more in books that are rushed to print).
While this book was free from Amazon during a promotion, I am not sure it was worth its $0.00 price. Don't bother when there are so many other better options.
If you read the other reviews, you will find the nagging question behind all of this. Why write a book meant to appeal to Christians while you so blatantly mock the Bible? Why attempt to put so much religion in a book that is not meant to appeal to Christians? The author missed the mark on this one. About the only reason that I gave it two stars instead of one is that there were very few grammatical or spelling errors (which seem to pop up more and more in books that are rushed to print).
While this book was free from Amazon during a promotion, I am not sure it was worth its $0.00 price. Don't bother when there are so many other better options.
February 22, 2018
Must Read! Hold onto your seat because "Empty Shell" is a heck of a ride! This is the 2nd book I've read by Ashley Fontainne & Narrated by Sara Morsey, the 1st was "Suicide Lake". This duo is without a doubt my favorite. 'Empty Shell' is filled with emotional twists, turns, and unexpected surprises, one minute you’re fuming mad, the next laughing out loud. I enjoyed this book so much, I found myself disappointed when it ended. I will absolutely recommend this book to my friends and family.
February 3, 2019
This was a really good story.Everything that could go wrong,does go wrong for this poor lady.It is full of likable characters and well written.That being said,I could have gone without the preachiness of it all.Maybe put a 'christian' sticker on it someplace.Sara Morsey was a fine narrator.I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
May 2, 2019
Looking forward to more books
This book was an absolute delight to read. A great mystery with themes of love, forgiveness and redemption woven through it. The Christian values instilled in Melody, by her mother, was an integral part of the plot.
Having it free through kindle was just icing on the cake.
This book was an absolute delight to read. A great mystery with themes of love, forgiveness and redemption woven through it. The Christian values instilled in Melody, by her mother, was an integral part of the plot.
Having it free through kindle was just icing on the cake.
June 4, 2017
I really enjoyed this story, its a realistic look on marriage, death, secrets and the kind of changes and choices that can creep up and follow you.
This was my first book from this writer and I found it to be really good.
I was given this free copy, in return for my unbiased review
This was my first book from this writer and I found it to be really good.
I was given this free copy, in return for my unbiased review
April 15, 2015
Rating: 4 Stars
Title: Empty Shell
Author: Ashley Fontainne
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Audio: 12 Hours 45 Minutes
Length: 385 Pages
Who killed the perky, little rich trollop? Melody’s husband of twenty years, Jack, is caught with his pants down and evidence is piling up against him so fast that he’s arrested for the murder scant hours after her body is found. ASHLEY FONTAINNE spins another solid suspenseful tale in EMPTY SHELL.
My husband and I listened to EMPTY SHELL in the audio version when on a cross country trip. I have to admit that there were events in the book that had us looking at each other with our mouths hanging open, never expecting some of the twists in this book. EMPTY SHELL is a great story, has great characters, and great unexpected twists and turns.
The only criticism I have in this book is the main character, Melody. I’m still not sure if I liked her or not. Ms. Fontainne’s female characters are always strong which I enjoy tremendously, but she seemed weak to me, placing blame on others for their actions and then in a complete reversal taking it on herself, which didn’t sit well with me considering the circumstances. This happened a couple of times in the book and it just didn’t come off as something that would actually happen in real life.
If you like mysteries, thrillers and suspenseful reading with strong plots and many surprises, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed!
Title: Empty Shell
Author: Ashley Fontainne
Genre: Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Audio: 12 Hours 45 Minutes
Length: 385 Pages
Who killed the perky, little rich trollop? Melody’s husband of twenty years, Jack, is caught with his pants down and evidence is piling up against him so fast that he’s arrested for the murder scant hours after her body is found. ASHLEY FONTAINNE spins another solid suspenseful tale in EMPTY SHELL.
My husband and I listened to EMPTY SHELL in the audio version when on a cross country trip. I have to admit that there were events in the book that had us looking at each other with our mouths hanging open, never expecting some of the twists in this book. EMPTY SHELL is a great story, has great characters, and great unexpected twists and turns.
The only criticism I have in this book is the main character, Melody. I’m still not sure if I liked her or not. Ms. Fontainne’s female characters are always strong which I enjoy tremendously, but she seemed weak to me, placing blame on others for their actions and then in a complete reversal taking it on herself, which didn’t sit well with me considering the circumstances. This happened a couple of times in the book and it just didn’t come off as something that would actually happen in real life.
If you like mysteries, thrillers and suspenseful reading with strong plots and many surprises, pick this one up. You won’t be disappointed!
October 14, 2014
As you begin to read the first few pages, taking in Melody and Jack getting ready for work on a seemly normal day, you have no idea of the storm that is heading their way.
What follows is every wife’s worst nightmare. The level of betrayal Melody suffers is shocking, and Ashley Fontainne doesn’t let up with the punches as she continues to shovel on the turmoil for a fair portion of the book.
Although Melody is a strong character brought to her knees, who finds comfort in the faith she had all but turned her back on, the frequent references to God and His words were a little much for me. This is not so much a criticism but an opinion from someone who holds little, if any, religious views. I did, however, appreciate the part Melody’s returning faith played in her personal journey.
Fontainne’s previous books held a lot of tension between their pages, whereas Empty Shell is more of a slow burner on your emotions. Your heartbreaks for Melody and I found myself wondering if and when she was going to break. The plot is complex with a lot of characters and elements, and it was a pleasure to peel back the layers and find out the answers I’d been seeking.
review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
What follows is every wife’s worst nightmare. The level of betrayal Melody suffers is shocking, and Ashley Fontainne doesn’t let up with the punches as she continues to shovel on the turmoil for a fair portion of the book.
Although Melody is a strong character brought to her knees, who finds comfort in the faith she had all but turned her back on, the frequent references to God and His words were a little much for me. This is not so much a criticism but an opinion from someone who holds little, if any, religious views. I did, however, appreciate the part Melody’s returning faith played in her personal journey.
Fontainne’s previous books held a lot of tension between their pages, whereas Empty Shell is more of a slow burner on your emotions. Your heartbreaks for Melody and I found myself wondering if and when she was going to break. The plot is complex with a lot of characters and elements, and it was a pleasure to peel back the layers and find out the answers I’d been seeking.
review by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of Bestchicklit.com
April 25, 2015
Just WOW! Holy smokes, “Empty Shell” was an incredible listen! I had to keep my hands busy because this was a serious nail biter.
OH YE OF LITTLE FAITH I love the psychological thought process of the protagonist. Incredibly detailed while drawing the listener in more and more. I’ve never seen an author be able to get into someone’s head as brilliantly as Ashley Fontainne. And Sara Morsey is like listening to your best friend sitting right next to you chatting, sharing innermost thoughts and feelings.
This story was full of unexpected twists. I never knew which direction it was taking me in. It sneaks up on the listener. Every time I I had an ‘aha’ moment, it threw me off. This was a nice, well executed slow burn.
About the narrator: Sara Morsey is one of the most real, believable, exceptional audio voices out there. She’s like, ‘C’mon on over here and let me tell ya a story’ awesome! Natural voice inflections and her southern drawl makes her one of a kind. She never fails to deliver an outstanding performance. Just amazing.
About the author: Ashley Fontainne is hands down one of my favorite writers. Wherever I’m at, listening to one of her audiobooks I feel I need to put on a seat belt because I know I’m in for a mind-blowing ride.
OH YE OF LITTLE FAITH I love the psychological thought process of the protagonist. Incredibly detailed while drawing the listener in more and more. I’ve never seen an author be able to get into someone’s head as brilliantly as Ashley Fontainne. And Sara Morsey is like listening to your best friend sitting right next to you chatting, sharing innermost thoughts and feelings.
This story was full of unexpected twists. I never knew which direction it was taking me in. It sneaks up on the listener. Every time I I had an ‘aha’ moment, it threw me off. This was a nice, well executed slow burn.
About the narrator: Sara Morsey is one of the most real, believable, exceptional audio voices out there. She’s like, ‘C’mon on over here and let me tell ya a story’ awesome! Natural voice inflections and her southern drawl makes her one of a kind. She never fails to deliver an outstanding performance. Just amazing.
About the author: Ashley Fontainne is hands down one of my favorite writers. Wherever I’m at, listening to one of her audiobooks I feel I need to put on a seat belt because I know I’m in for a mind-blowing ride.
March 16, 2015
I got this book from the author in exchange for a honest review. Let me start of by saying, this book has a lot of religious forgiveness and under tones in it. I'm not religious, but I do keep an open mind.
I don't think it's possible for any one person to go through what Melody has gone through and still be breathing. All of the plot twists had me reeling. I was completely taken off guard. Regardless of the religion, I really enjoyed this book. I suppose to come out whole on the other side of all the crap she went through, you would have to be a believer. I flew through this book like lightning, couldn't turn it off. I went with very little sleep on many nights until it was finished.
The narration was exceptional! She did an excellent job of portraying all the different emotions and turmoil the characters were experiencing. My heart broke on many occasions for Melody. Great book, I will recommend it to my friends and family.
I don't think it's possible for any one person to go through what Melody has gone through and still be breathing. All of the plot twists had me reeling. I was completely taken off guard. Regardless of the religion, I really enjoyed this book. I suppose to come out whole on the other side of all the crap she went through, you would have to be a believer. I flew through this book like lightning, couldn't turn it off. I went with very little sleep on many nights until it was finished.
The narration was exceptional! She did an excellent job of portraying all the different emotions and turmoil the characters were experiencing. My heart broke on many occasions for Melody. Great book, I will recommend it to my friends and family.
December 27, 2014
Empty Shell is another great thriller by Ashley Fontainne.The story centers around Melody and Jack Dickinson, who after 20 years of marriage are in a bit of a rut, which is not that unusual for an "old married couple." We learn almost immediately that Jack is having an affair with one of Melody's coworkers, Serena Rowland. Soon after, we learn that Serena was murdered and Jack is arrested for the death of his mistress.
The rest of the story focuses on solving the murder and Melody coping with all of it. Melody is surrounded by great supporting characters in friends and family. Her faith also has a big part in this book.
Sara Morsey did a fantastic job narrating, differentiating between male and female characters. Her voice portrayals are consistent throughout and she narrates with appropriate changes in inflection and tone to set the proper mood.
The rest of the story focuses on solving the murder and Melody coping with all of it. Melody is surrounded by great supporting characters in friends and family. Her faith also has a big part in this book.
Sara Morsey did a fantastic job narrating, differentiating between male and female characters. Her voice portrayals are consistent throughout and she narrates with appropriate changes in inflection and tone to set the proper mood.
February 14, 2015
I started reading this book and it gripped me with its twists and turns. Even when I had to set the story aside to work and eat (sleep was negotiable), my mind was consumed with getting back to it.
I've read other books by Fontainne (Evisceratiung the Snake Series) but, so far, this one is my favorite. It could possibly be because there was no vengeful attitude portrayed by Melody so I could identify with her feelings more than with some of the characters in the previous books I'd read, though the series pulled me in - hook, line and sinker, as well.
What can I say? Fontainne knows how to tell an engaging story and I look forward to reading other works of hers in the future.
I've read other books by Fontainne (Evisceratiung the Snake Series) but, so far, this one is my favorite. It could possibly be because there was no vengeful attitude portrayed by Melody so I could identify with her feelings more than with some of the characters in the previous books I'd read, though the series pulled me in - hook, line and sinker, as well.
What can I say? Fontainne knows how to tell an engaging story and I look forward to reading other works of hers in the future.
December 15, 2014
Wow! Empty Shell is a really great story about a woman, for whom everything goes horribly wrong, who doesn't break. Melody Dickinson's world comes crashing down around her, repeatedly, and she keeps getting back up and brushing herself back off again. A truly Christian message about the power of God, without being too pushy or preachy about it. It's wonderfully Southern flavor (especially in audio format) made me crave a tall glass of sweet tea, and a plate of biscuits and gravy. I laughed and cried, mostly the latter, with these characters, and the ending left me satisfied and cozy-feeling.
April 18, 2015
Lost
Sorry to say but this story didn't capture my interest from page one. This is the only book that I've ever given a one star. Boring and not intriguing. Sorry.
Sorry to say but this story didn't capture my interest from page one. This is the only book that I've ever given a one star. Boring and not intriguing. Sorry.
April 20, 2015
Believable
I enjoyed this book but wouldn't have chosen it to read if had known how religion was included. It was kind of preachy.
I enjoyed this book but wouldn't have chosen it to read if had known how religion was included. It was kind of preachy.
July 20, 2016
A Christian mystery
March 28, 2017
Empty Shell by Ashley Fontaine was a good read. Melody and Jack have a seemingly quiet life that is about to be turned upside down. After a long marriage Melody discovers that Jack has betrayed her by cheating with someone she works with. This was a good book that I enjoyed reading.
March 30, 2017
Empty Shell
: Ashley Fontainne
This murder mystery, suspense, romance, mixed with religious fiction. The more you listen the more convoluted the plot becomes. Lots of twists and turns and red herrings tossed your way to try and keep the listener guessing. The characters made you either like or hate them. Some of the
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Sara Morsey gave a good performance.
“I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.”
: Ashley Fontainne
This murder mystery, suspense, romance, mixed with religious fiction. The more you listen the more convoluted the plot becomes. Lots of twists and turns and red herrings tossed your way to try and keep the listener guessing. The characters made you either like or hate them. Some of the
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. Sara Morsey gave a good performance.
“I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.”
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