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Reeve LeClaire #2
What Doesn't Kill Her
Reeve LeClaire is a college student, dammit, not Daryl Wayne Flint's victim. Not anymore-not when Reeve is finally recovering a life of her own after four years of captivity.
Flint is safely locked up in Olshaker Psychiatric Hospital, where he belongs. He is walking the grounds of the forensic unit, performing his strange but apparently harmless rituals. It seems that he is still suffering the effects of the head injury he suffered in the car crash that freed Reeve seven years ago. Post-concussive syndrome, they call it.
For all that Flint seems like a model patient, he has long been planning his next move. When the moment arrives, he gets clean away from the hospital before the alarm even sounds. And Reeve is shocked out of her new life by her worst nightmare: Her kidnapper has escaped. Less than 24 hours later, Flint kills someone from his past--and Reeve's blocked memories jolt back into consciousness. As much as she would like to forget him, she knows this criminal better than anyone else. When Flint evades capture, baffling authorities and leaving a bloody trail from the psychiatric lock-up to the forests of Washington state, Reeve suddenly realizes that she is the only one who can stop him.
Reeve is an irresistibly brave and believable heroine in Carla Norton's heart-stopping new thriller, What Doesn't Kill Her, about a young woman who learns to fight back.
Flint is safely locked up in Olshaker Psychiatric Hospital, where he belongs. He is walking the grounds of the forensic unit, performing his strange but apparently harmless rituals. It seems that he is still suffering the effects of the head injury he suffered in the car crash that freed Reeve seven years ago. Post-concussive syndrome, they call it.
For all that Flint seems like a model patient, he has long been planning his next move. When the moment arrives, he gets clean away from the hospital before the alarm even sounds. And Reeve is shocked out of her new life by her worst nightmare: Her kidnapper has escaped. Less than 24 hours later, Flint kills someone from his past--and Reeve's blocked memories jolt back into consciousness. As much as she would like to forget him, she knows this criminal better than anyone else. When Flint evades capture, baffling authorities and leaving a bloody trail from the psychiatric lock-up to the forests of Washington state, Reeve suddenly realizes that she is the only one who can stop him.
Reeve is an irresistibly brave and believable heroine in Carla Norton's heart-stopping new thriller, What Doesn't Kill Her, about a young woman who learns to fight back.
11 pages, Audiobook
First published January 1, 2015
64 people are currently reading
5392 people want to read
About the author
Carla Norton
12 books322 followersIs my fiction inspired by true events? Absolutely. My first book was a true account of a shocking crime. PERFECT VICTIM, which I co-wrote with the prosecutor, made the reading list for the FBI's Behavioral Sciences Unit and was a #1 New York Times bestseller.
The case haunted me, and now that astonishing true story fuels two works of fiction: THE EDGE OF NORMAL and WHAT DOESN'T KILL HER. Reeve, my fictional heroine, is a young survivor of kidnapping and captivity. Scarred, flawed, and psychologically unbalanced, ‘Edgy Reggie’ has a hot sense of justice. And she’s absolutely fearless.
After PERFECT VICTIM, I wrote another true crime, DISTURBED GROUND. This is the shocking true story of a shape-shifting ex-con, a woman who fooled everyone -- neighbors, clergy, even cops -- while in fact she was the rarest of all criminals: a female serial killer.
THE EDGE OF NORMAL: Thriller Award Finalist; Royal Palm Literary Award Winner.
WHAT DOESN'T KILL HER: Nancy Pearl Book Award Winner.
Jeffery Deaver calls THE EDGE OF NORMAL the "perfect blend of literary style, psychological insight & edge-of-the-seat thriller."
Taylor Stevens says WHAT DOESN’T KILL HER is "a smart, tightly written, psychological thrill ride.” (The book is titled HUNTED overseas.)
**Please feel free to contact me via Goodreads if you'd like to ask a question. Thank you!
The case haunted me, and now that astonishing true story fuels two works of fiction: THE EDGE OF NORMAL and WHAT DOESN'T KILL HER. Reeve, my fictional heroine, is a young survivor of kidnapping and captivity. Scarred, flawed, and psychologically unbalanced, ‘Edgy Reggie’ has a hot sense of justice. And she’s absolutely fearless.
After PERFECT VICTIM, I wrote another true crime, DISTURBED GROUND. This is the shocking true story of a shape-shifting ex-con, a woman who fooled everyone -- neighbors, clergy, even cops -- while in fact she was the rarest of all criminals: a female serial killer.
THE EDGE OF NORMAL: Thriller Award Finalist; Royal Palm Literary Award Winner.
WHAT DOESN'T KILL HER: Nancy Pearl Book Award Winner.
Jeffery Deaver calls THE EDGE OF NORMAL the "perfect blend of literary style, psychological insight & edge-of-the-seat thriller."
Taylor Stevens says WHAT DOESN’T KILL HER is "a smart, tightly written, psychological thrill ride.” (The book is titled HUNTED overseas.)
**Please feel free to contact me via Goodreads if you'd like to ask a question. Thank you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews
June 29, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I just love a well written mystery that keeps me guessing. This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and I found myself reading "just one more chapter" until I had had finished the book. I didn't even realize that this was the second book in the series until I was almost done with the book. To be honest, I don't think that I would have ever known if it wasn't on Goodreads because there was never a moment in the book where I felt like I was missing something.
This isn't one of those mysteries where the reader wonders who committed the crime. The criminal is apparent from the very beginning of the book. The question is how are they going to catch him and just how many crimes has he committed. The story is told from several points of view but the largest portion of the book is told from Reeve's point of view. Reeve was kidnapped as a preteen and spend four years of her life in captivity. She is moving on with her live until she learns that man who put her through hell has just escaped from his psychiatric unit where he was a prisoner. Reeve knows this criminal probably better than anyone so she decides to do what she can to help capture him.
The character in this book were varied. The parts of the story that were told from Flint's point of view were rather disturbing. Flint wasn't the only unpleasant character in this story. His mother was equally horrible. I even disliked Agent Blakenship for most of the story. While I wouldn't want to make friends with these individuals, their characters really added a lot to the story and gave me someone to root against. There were some very likeable characters in this book as well. Reeve is a survivor who doesn't give up easily. Milo Bender is probably my favorite character in the book because he is truly a nice guy and a great Agent.
The pacing of the story was very well done. There were enough surprises that I felt compelled to see what would happen next. While I would hope that some of things that happen in this book wouldn't happen in reality, the plot always felt very realistic. You wouldn't want it to happen but it isn't outside the realm of possibilities. I liked the way that the point of view changed in this story. Each point of very was very clear and had its own distinct voice. Each point of view brought an extra layer to the story being told and really had a impact on the overall flow of the book.
I would highly recommend this book to mystery fans. This is the first book by Carla Norton that I have had a chance to read but I will definitely being more in the future. I am really curious about the first book in this series and hope to start on that one very soon.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press - Minotaur via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
I just love a well written mystery that keeps me guessing. This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and I found myself reading "just one more chapter" until I had had finished the book. I didn't even realize that this was the second book in the series until I was almost done with the book. To be honest, I don't think that I would have ever known if it wasn't on Goodreads because there was never a moment in the book where I felt like I was missing something.
This isn't one of those mysteries where the reader wonders who committed the crime. The criminal is apparent from the very beginning of the book. The question is how are they going to catch him and just how many crimes has he committed. The story is told from several points of view but the largest portion of the book is told from Reeve's point of view. Reeve was kidnapped as a preteen and spend four years of her life in captivity. She is moving on with her live until she learns that man who put her through hell has just escaped from his psychiatric unit where he was a prisoner. Reeve knows this criminal probably better than anyone so she decides to do what she can to help capture him.
The character in this book were varied. The parts of the story that were told from Flint's point of view were rather disturbing. Flint wasn't the only unpleasant character in this story. His mother was equally horrible. I even disliked Agent Blakenship for most of the story. While I wouldn't want to make friends with these individuals, their characters really added a lot to the story and gave me someone to root against. There were some very likeable characters in this book as well. Reeve is a survivor who doesn't give up easily. Milo Bender is probably my favorite character in the book because he is truly a nice guy and a great Agent.
The pacing of the story was very well done. There were enough surprises that I felt compelled to see what would happen next. While I would hope that some of things that happen in this book wouldn't happen in reality, the plot always felt very realistic. You wouldn't want it to happen but it isn't outside the realm of possibilities. I liked the way that the point of view changed in this story. Each point of very was very clear and had its own distinct voice. Each point of view brought an extra layer to the story being told and really had a impact on the overall flow of the book.
I would highly recommend this book to mystery fans. This is the first book by Carla Norton that I have had a chance to read but I will definitely being more in the future. I am really curious about the first book in this series and hope to start on that one very soon.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from St. Martin's Press - Minotaur via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
June 5, 2015
When reviewers say "I couldn't put this book down" I'm like....Okay Okay.
Now I am going to say it...I COULDN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN!
I really couldn't leave this book alone today, I was glued to it. Honestly. NO I haven't read book 1, and I still didn't think that I have lost anything by it. Well, no excitement wise or edge of my seat wise.
A young girl, on her bike goes swimming, on the way back gets a flat tyre.
A man sees her struggling and is heading the way she is, maybe he could give her a lift? She refuses.
He drives up further seeing her struggle with her punctured bike, maybe he could take the bike for her and she could make faster pace by walking instead of being hindered by this bike?
OK, good idea.
That is when she gets kidnapped.
I love a good start to a book! I'm an addict for a book to open well, I want to be literally THROWN shoved and mixed right up within its first pages, wow, this one did it for me. At the ending, it spit me out!
The intense feelings within this, the raw emotions, you could smell it. You could feel it. Honestly, it GRABBED you. This is the first book I have read by Carla Norton and she is now on my every growing list to keep stalking ready for her NEXT book.
Flint who was the kidnapper is safely locked up in a Psychiatric Hospital, good riddance to bad rubbish right?
WRONG.
There is someone who can help him escape and he does.
The cat and mouse chase is not the only thing that keeps you riveted, its the 'quietness' of it. Its sorta creepy. HE is sort of creepy.
Reeve is the girl who was kidnapped, she thought it was all in her past, she fought hard, tooth and nail to get her life back on track........now this.
This was a gripping tale, much much more than I thought it would ever be.
I devoured this book.
Thanks goes to St. Martin's Press for allowing me to read this via Net Galley
May 19, 2015
I won this book in a goodreads first reads give away and I would like to thank the author for an ARC of this book.
This is the first book I have read from this author and it was so good I'm looking forward to reading more. This book is an awesome psychological thriller.
When Reeve was younger she was kidnapped and held captive for four years by a freak pedophile named Daryl Wayne Flint. By pure luck she was found when Flint was driving one day and had her in the trunk of his car. I'm not sure where he was taking her at the time, I may have missed that part. Reeve went through four years of torture and mutilation with this creep and all they do is put him in a mental institution!
A few years later he escapes. He played a psycho in the hospital for years biding his time to escape and he had people outside of the place helping him!! Well one was a child pornographer, but one was his freaking mother! What kind of crazy woman is she!!
Anyway, he escapes and wants to find Reeve again even though she's older he still wants her. I will not give any spoilers as to what all he did to her, but it's horrific! He also tries to grab some other little girls that look like her but he's off his game.
Reeve wants to try to help the police catch him so he doesn't hurt anyone like he hurt her, so she teams up with the retired FBI agent she worked with on her case, Milo. She does a great job, they both do.
The ending is really good and I definately enjoyed this thrill ride trying to find Flint and tie all of these things together. I would recommend it to anyone that loves mystery/thriller books.
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
This is the first book I have read from this author and it was so good I'm looking forward to reading more. This book is an awesome psychological thriller.
When Reeve was younger she was kidnapped and held captive for four years by a freak pedophile named Daryl Wayne Flint. By pure luck she was found when Flint was driving one day and had her in the trunk of his car. I'm not sure where he was taking her at the time, I may have missed that part. Reeve went through four years of torture and mutilation with this creep and all they do is put him in a mental institution!
A few years later he escapes. He played a psycho in the hospital for years biding his time to escape and he had people outside of the place helping him!! Well one was a child pornographer, but one was his freaking mother! What kind of crazy woman is she!!
Anyway, he escapes and wants to find Reeve again even though she's older he still wants her. I will not give any spoilers as to what all he did to her, but it's horrific! He also tries to grab some other little girls that look like her but he's off his game.
Reeve wants to try to help the police catch him so he doesn't hurt anyone like he hurt her, so she teams up with the retired FBI agent she worked with on her case, Milo. She does a great job, they both do.
The ending is really good and I definately enjoyed this thrill ride trying to find Flint and tie all of these things together. I would recommend it to anyone that loves mystery/thriller books.
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
November 14, 2020
❐ Overall Rating 5 | Narration 4½
❐ Reeve LeClair #2
❐ Suspense Thriller
❐ Kidnapped. Held captive. Escaped...only to have the sadistic kidnapper escape custody years later
❐ Another deeply affecting story that can be difficult to read/listen
Upon finishing Book #1, The Edge of Normal, I immediately started Book #2...knowing that its focus was more on Reeve's story, I was eager to delve into it. I seriously don't know how the author writes the scenes from inside the head of such sick, twisted individuals the way she does. (There is an interview with Carla Norton at the end of The Edge of Normal audiobook that expounds on this, though.) It is so deeply affecting...and thankfully not overly detailed graphically...because I probably couldn't have kept listening otherwise. This second book was even more compelling than the first book was.
My issue with the first book with the volume not being high enough was fixed in this second book and I, although others have not liked the narrator's performance, found her to be fairly decent. It just goes to show you never can tell how one person to the next is going to feel about someone's narration. It could have been better, of course, with a different narrator for the male POV's.
❐ Libby Listen through my Library
❐ Length ➯ 11H 23M
❐ Plot ➯ 5/5
❐ Characters ➯ 5/5
❐ The Feels ➯ 4.7/5
❐ Twisty-ness/Mystery/Thrills ➯ 4.7/5
❐ Ending ➯ 5/5
❐ Reeve LeClair #2
❐ Suspense Thriller
❐ Kidnapped. Held captive. Escaped...only to have the sadistic kidnapper escape custody years later
❐ Another deeply affecting story that can be difficult to read/listen
Upon finishing Book #1, The Edge of Normal, I immediately started Book #2...knowing that its focus was more on Reeve's story, I was eager to delve into it. I seriously don't know how the author writes the scenes from inside the head of such sick, twisted individuals the way she does. (There is an interview with Carla Norton at the end of The Edge of Normal audiobook that expounds on this, though.) It is so deeply affecting...and thankfully not overly detailed graphically...because I probably couldn't have kept listening otherwise. This second book was even more compelling than the first book was.
My issue with the first book with the volume not being high enough was fixed in this second book and I, although others have not liked the narrator's performance, found her to be fairly decent. It just goes to show you never can tell how one person to the next is going to feel about someone's narration. It could have been better, of course, with a different narrator for the male POV's.
❐ Libby Listen through my Library
❐ Length ➯ 11H 23M
❐ Plot ➯ 5/5
❐ Characters ➯ 5/5
❐ The Feels ➯ 4.7/5
❐ Twisty-ness/Mystery/Thrills ➯ 4.7/5
❐ Ending ➯ 5/5
May 23, 2015
So I adored "The Edge of Normal" which was the first novel featuring main protagonist Reeve - survivor of a long term and violent kidnapping when we meet her in book one she sets out to help another victim come to terms with her life after trauma. It was a novel that was full of psychological depth and completely addictive.
Moving onto "What Doesnt Kill Her" then (UK Title "Hunted") Reeve is enjoying a fairly normal life - more centred, not so on the edge, but still haunted by her past. When her kidnapper escapes however she is drawn back into a place she thought she has moved on from, determined to help the investigators track him down, it turns out she has some intriguing insights.
This really is a brilliant book - the characters pop, the action when it comes is fast and furious, the psychological depth is once more pitch perfect allowing a terrific yin/yang between character drama and thriller.
Reeve is brilliant- she is flawed of course, who wouldnt be if they had her experience - but she has definitely learned and developed from the time when she was known as "Edgy Reggie" into an impressive young woman whose bravery is both inspiring and absolutely authentic.
The tale fairly rollicks along at a gorgeous pace, it has a very dark heart and a killer who makes you want to hide under the bed. And lets not even talk about his mother...
Admittedly after "The Edge of Normal" I did not expect to meet Reeve again - now Carla Norton has given us a continuation of her story it feels absolutely right, this novel too has set things up so we can keep following along with her and this makes me inordinately pleased. In fact I simply MUST know what is next for Reeve and if the series continues at this standard it is fast going to be in my top 5 must read series. Probably already is actually..
Excellent. Really excellent and if you are a fan of Crime fiction and like it to have a dark cutting edge and a character you can truly root for, then the Reeve LeClaire books are definitely for you.
Happy Reading Folks!
Moving onto "What Doesnt Kill Her" then (UK Title "Hunted") Reeve is enjoying a fairly normal life - more centred, not so on the edge, but still haunted by her past. When her kidnapper escapes however she is drawn back into a place she thought she has moved on from, determined to help the investigators track him down, it turns out she has some intriguing insights.
This really is a brilliant book - the characters pop, the action when it comes is fast and furious, the psychological depth is once more pitch perfect allowing a terrific yin/yang between character drama and thriller.
Reeve is brilliant- she is flawed of course, who wouldnt be if they had her experience - but she has definitely learned and developed from the time when she was known as "Edgy Reggie" into an impressive young woman whose bravery is both inspiring and absolutely authentic.
The tale fairly rollicks along at a gorgeous pace, it has a very dark heart and a killer who makes you want to hide under the bed. And lets not even talk about his mother...
Admittedly after "The Edge of Normal" I did not expect to meet Reeve again - now Carla Norton has given us a continuation of her story it feels absolutely right, this novel too has set things up so we can keep following along with her and this makes me inordinately pleased. In fact I simply MUST know what is next for Reeve and if the series continues at this standard it is fast going to be in my top 5 must read series. Probably already is actually..
Excellent. Really excellent and if you are a fan of Crime fiction and like it to have a dark cutting edge and a character you can truly root for, then the Reeve LeClaire books are definitely for you.
Happy Reading Folks!
February 19, 2015
I received What Doesn't Kill Her as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!
Carla Norton seriously hit the ball out of the park with What Doesn't Kill Her. The multi narrator perspective was flawless, the suspense weaved throughout the story made this the most exciting suspenseful book I've read since Gone Girl. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Reeve's story, being a part of the investigation, and staying on the edge of my seat as I anxiously awaited answers. Highly enjoyed and recommended.
Carla Norton seriously hit the ball out of the park with What Doesn't Kill Her. The multi narrator perspective was flawless, the suspense weaved throughout the story made this the most exciting suspenseful book I've read since Gone Girl. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Reeve's story, being a part of the investigation, and staying on the edge of my seat as I anxiously awaited answers. Highly enjoyed and recommended.
May 7, 2015
I received this arc from Netgalley.
I started off enjoying this book, but the more I read the more I disliked it. First off, I know this is a fiction book but it was just totally unbelievable. Reeve is supposed to have so much insight in to how Flint's mind works because he carved her up all those years ago? I don't think so. Just glad to be finished with this.
I started off enjoying this book, but the more I read the more I disliked it. First off, I know this is a fiction book but it was just totally unbelievable. Reeve is supposed to have so much insight in to how Flint's mind works because he carved her up all those years ago? I don't think so. Just glad to be finished with this.
May 28, 2015
This book is as incredible as the first one, which I chose to read first. The writing is flawless and the story flows effortlessly. I love the strength of the main character. she was so strong even after all she had endured. The characters are well developed. I highly recommend you read these books in order, though they can be read as stand- alone novels. I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. If you like suspense, mystery and crime all wrapped in a neat package, then read this series. I will definitely read more books written by this author. What an incredible writer she is!
August 10, 2016
A sequel to Norton's debut novel The Edge of Normal, this continuation of Reeve LeClaire's story can still be picked up and enjoyed by any who haven't read its predecessor. I reviewed the first novel here last year, and was impressed with how well Norton handled an intense, traumatic subject matter in a responsible way while also keeping the book honest, well paced, and suspenseful. For better or for worse, What Doesn't Kill Her consistently matches all the notes of that first novel. The writing, plot, and characters are just as engaging as in the first book. What Doesn't Kill Her continues the storyline of its predecessor, and Reeve LeClaire evolves in significant ways from her past and the events of book one.
However, themes of the first novel reappear in the sequel and the threats that face Reeve are at least partially a rehash of the conflicts in The Edge of Normal. For new readers getting introduced to the character - the scars of her past and the brave steps she takes to move on - this sequel will be approachable and a complete discovery. Fans of the first book will certainly enjoy it, but perhaps find it a bit familiar in terms of what the plot is throwing at its protagonist.
The Edge of Normal introduced Reeve LeClaire, a young woman in her early twenties who a decade prior was the victim of kidnapping and captivity by a sexual predator. Living with memories of this traumatic past, Reeve hesitantly answers a call from her psychiatrist and her own conscience to help a young girl just saved from similar captivity, whose kidnapper remains at large, watching the escaped girl and Reeve from the shadows. In What Doesn't Kill Her, Flint, the man who abducted Reeve, has managed to escape from prison. With her former tormentor evading capture and targeting her anew, Reeve feels that she must bear the responsibility of stopping Flint.
This plot depends on Reeve believably going after an escaped criminal and killer who she has a personal, horrible, history with. A bit of a stretch, Norton makes it work based on the insights that Reeve has on Flint's psychology and life, based on what she overheard and experienced during her captivity. The authorities involved in Flint's capture don't have this insight, so to force Reeve into action Norton has to make the police somewhat unresponsive to following up on Reeve's memories and feelings. This does provide a nice impetus for Reeve's growth as a character, as she begins to have bad memories return and is forced to face and overcome them. It also continues Reeve's independence, of not being reliant on others, particularly male authority figures, to simply step in and protect/save her.
This plot also returns to putting Reeve in physical danger, kidnapping situations where she is again faced with an evil captor. It ends up feeling like a retread of the climax of the first book, and now the cat-and-mouse game leading up to confrontation doesn't have that element of the first book where Reeve is primarily acting to protect another young girl. Now it is completely about her, her past, her safety and future. I do look forward to future books in this series, and despite some familiar situations that brought me some disappointment from this novel relative to the first, it overall is still an excellent read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
However, themes of the first novel reappear in the sequel and the threats that face Reeve are at least partially a rehash of the conflicts in The Edge of Normal. For new readers getting introduced to the character - the scars of her past and the brave steps she takes to move on - this sequel will be approachable and a complete discovery. Fans of the first book will certainly enjoy it, but perhaps find it a bit familiar in terms of what the plot is throwing at its protagonist.
The Edge of Normal introduced Reeve LeClaire, a young woman in her early twenties who a decade prior was the victim of kidnapping and captivity by a sexual predator. Living with memories of this traumatic past, Reeve hesitantly answers a call from her psychiatrist and her own conscience to help a young girl just saved from similar captivity, whose kidnapper remains at large, watching the escaped girl and Reeve from the shadows. In What Doesn't Kill Her, Flint, the man who abducted Reeve, has managed to escape from prison. With her former tormentor evading capture and targeting her anew, Reeve feels that she must bear the responsibility of stopping Flint.
This plot depends on Reeve believably going after an escaped criminal and killer who she has a personal, horrible, history with. A bit of a stretch, Norton makes it work based on the insights that Reeve has on Flint's psychology and life, based on what she overheard and experienced during her captivity. The authorities involved in Flint's capture don't have this insight, so to force Reeve into action Norton has to make the police somewhat unresponsive to following up on Reeve's memories and feelings. This does provide a nice impetus for Reeve's growth as a character, as she begins to have bad memories return and is forced to face and overcome them. It also continues Reeve's independence, of not being reliant on others, particularly male authority figures, to simply step in and protect/save her.
This plot also returns to putting Reeve in physical danger, kidnapping situations where she is again faced with an evil captor. It ends up feeling like a retread of the climax of the first book, and now the cat-and-mouse game leading up to confrontation doesn't have that element of the first book where Reeve is primarily acting to protect another young girl. Now it is completely about her, her past, her safety and future. I do look forward to future books in this series, and despite some familiar situations that brought me some disappointment from this novel relative to the first, it overall is still an excellent read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
December 29, 2015
I first met Reeve Leclair in Book 1 of this series .... The Edge of Normal. Reeve was kidnapped as a child and escaped four years later due to a freak car accident.
She has worked long and hard to get past the things that were done to her for those years she was kept in a cellar. She is now 23 and going to school. She does have trust issues, but she's making friends and learning to live again.
Daryl Wayne Flint, the man who took her, is now in a psychiatric ward in lieu of prison because he was found insane. Unfortunately, he has escaped ... killed two people ... and now wants to recapture the one who got away.
The characters are terrific! Reeve is such a strong protagonist. She refuses to let what happened to her define her role in this life. Bender is the ultimate victim advocate. He wants so much for Reeve to live a good life, Flint is a psychotic monster of gigantic proportion. Is he really insane ... or as smart as a fox?
There is no mystery, as such, but the suspense is palpable throughout the book. There were a few places I found I was holding my breath.
This is NOT a police procedural. No way would the FBI or any other law enforcement group allow a retired agent, especially one who is recovering from heart surgery, and a young woman who was a prior victim chase after a vicious killer on their own.
Even though I had to stretch my imagination, I found this book to be well-written and I thoroughly enjoyed every single page.
There is no cliff-hanger, so I have no idea if there will be a 3rd book. I certainly hope so..I'd like to see where she goes next.
She has worked long and hard to get past the things that were done to her for those years she was kept in a cellar. She is now 23 and going to school. She does have trust issues, but she's making friends and learning to live again.
Daryl Wayne Flint, the man who took her, is now in a psychiatric ward in lieu of prison because he was found insane. Unfortunately, he has escaped ... killed two people ... and now wants to recapture the one who got away.
The characters are terrific! Reeve is such a strong protagonist. She refuses to let what happened to her define her role in this life. Bender is the ultimate victim advocate. He wants so much for Reeve to live a good life, Flint is a psychotic monster of gigantic proportion. Is he really insane ... or as smart as a fox?
There is no mystery, as such, but the suspense is palpable throughout the book. There were a few places I found I was holding my breath.
This is NOT a police procedural. No way would the FBI or any other law enforcement group allow a retired agent, especially one who is recovering from heart surgery, and a young woman who was a prior victim chase after a vicious killer on their own.
Even though I had to stretch my imagination, I found this book to be well-written and I thoroughly enjoyed every single page.
There is no cliff-hanger, so I have no idea if there will be a 3rd book. I certainly hope so..I'd like to see where she goes next.
December 18, 2022
Setting: California and Washington State, USA.
Reeve LeClaire is just starting to rebuild her life, seven years on from her fortuitous escape from the clutches of psychopath Daryl Wayne Flint - a man who had kidnapped her at the age of 12 and kept her hostage for four years, torturing her repeatedly. But then Reeve is told that her captor has escaped from the psychiatric hospital where he was fortunate to be incarcerated. And suddenly her whole world shifts and Reeve finds herself drawn back to her former hometown of Seattle to help to track down her former tormentor, working with former FBI agent Milo Bender. But Daryl has his own plans - to recapture his former hostage, his 'little cricket'...
This was a totally gripping crime thriller, a great work of fiction from the author of Perfect Victim - The Girl in the Box - the true crime book about the incarceration of Colleen Stan, a stunning book in its own right. Told from the points of view of several different characters, including the fugitive Daryl Wayne Flint, the action is fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat stuff! Didn't realise that this was actually the second book featuring the character Reeve LeClaire but there was no problem reading it as a stand-alone - 9/10.
Reeve LeClaire is just starting to rebuild her life, seven years on from her fortuitous escape from the clutches of psychopath Daryl Wayne Flint - a man who had kidnapped her at the age of 12 and kept her hostage for four years, torturing her repeatedly. But then Reeve is told that her captor has escaped from the psychiatric hospital where he was fortunate to be incarcerated. And suddenly her whole world shifts and Reeve finds herself drawn back to her former hometown of Seattle to help to track down her former tormentor, working with former FBI agent Milo Bender. But Daryl has his own plans - to recapture his former hostage, his 'little cricket'...
This was a totally gripping crime thriller, a great work of fiction from the author of Perfect Victim - The Girl in the Box - the true crime book about the incarceration of Colleen Stan, a stunning book in its own right. Told from the points of view of several different characters, including the fugitive Daryl Wayne Flint, the action is fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat stuff! Didn't realise that this was actually the second book featuring the character Reeve LeClaire but there was no problem reading it as a stand-alone - 9/10.
September 10, 2019
I believe I am being generous giving this novel 3 stars. The novel resurrects a particularly smarmy, repulsive abuser, Daryl Flint, who escapes from the psychiatric hospital where he has been a patient for seven years. He had been found guilty for holding a young woman, Reeve, in captivity for four years. Reeve has tried to make life good for herself but images of her former captivity as a child keeps haunting her and her past and present come to a collision when she discovers that Flint Is on the loose. She is terrified but finds she cannot stay away from the chase. She sees herself as a person who has some insight into his criminal mind. She manages to convince the retired FBI agent who saved her seven years before to help her in her journey to track down this heinous man. The novel is filled with Flint’s nauseating and violent fascination with young females and he views them as toys , devoid of any human emotion. He likes to torture, and he doesn’t hesitate when it comes to killing various adults who get in his way. It bothers me that he does not have one single redeeming feature. Even Hannibal Lecter, the cannibal, had something a little charming about him. Not this guy. It’s not that I need my criminals to be portrayed as potentially lovely people. That would be absurd. It’s just that Flint is such a repugnant individual who never waivers in his vile ways except when he pretends. He is flat and evil. Best to flush him!
January 11, 2017
Reeve LeClaire is a student at U.C. Berkeley. Reeve wasn’t always called “Reeve”; she’d changed her name to avoid attention after having been kidnapped and held captive by a predator for the majority of her teenage years. It’s worked so far; that is, it’s worked until her captor, Daryl Wayne Flint, killed a worker at Washington State’s Olshaker Psychiatric Hospital and escaped.
After a fellow student identifies her to the news media, and a domineering FBI agent attempts to question her using strong-arm tactics, Reeve decides to join in the hunt for Flint. Flint, having seen his favorite captive on television news feeds, also decides to hunt for Reeve.
I found it difficult to get into this book at the beginning. As it progressed, I began to enjoy it more. After wondering why, I realized it was because I didn’t like or have a personal connection with any of the characters. A good portion of the beginning deals with introducing Flint, his mother, and his psychiatrist – NONE of which were ever intended to provide a warm feeling in the readers’ hearts. Our initial brief glances at Reeve did not provide enough depth to build a connection with the readers, either – at least not this particular reader. As the protagonist was developed, and sympathetic supporting characters were introduced, it became easier to sink into the text. Then, as author Norton increased the tension with having the two main characters effectively hunting each other, the novel really kicked into high gear.
It turns out that this is the second book in this series; I never realized that while reading the book. This certainly means that it is not necessary to have read the first book before reading the second; however, I have to wonder if I would have enjoyed the beginning more had I had the advantage of knowing Reeve LeClaire from that first book.
RATING: 4 stars.
DISCLOSURE: I was awarded a free copy of this book in a random draw. No requirement of a review was made, let alone any conditions on the tone / content of a review, however, it was suggested that “an honest review would be appropriate” upon winning (and given that the book was released almost 2 years ago, perhaps they should have added “prompt”).
After a fellow student identifies her to the news media, and a domineering FBI agent attempts to question her using strong-arm tactics, Reeve decides to join in the hunt for Flint. Flint, having seen his favorite captive on television news feeds, also decides to hunt for Reeve.
I found it difficult to get into this book at the beginning. As it progressed, I began to enjoy it more. After wondering why, I realized it was because I didn’t like or have a personal connection with any of the characters. A good portion of the beginning deals with introducing Flint, his mother, and his psychiatrist – NONE of which were ever intended to provide a warm feeling in the readers’ hearts. Our initial brief glances at Reeve did not provide enough depth to build a connection with the readers, either – at least not this particular reader. As the protagonist was developed, and sympathetic supporting characters were introduced, it became easier to sink into the text. Then, as author Norton increased the tension with having the two main characters effectively hunting each other, the novel really kicked into high gear.
It turns out that this is the second book in this series; I never realized that while reading the book. This certainly means that it is not necessary to have read the first book before reading the second; however, I have to wonder if I would have enjoyed the beginning more had I had the advantage of knowing Reeve LeClaire from that first book.
RATING: 4 stars.
DISCLOSURE: I was awarded a free copy of this book in a random draw. No requirement of a review was made, let alone any conditions on the tone / content of a review, however, it was suggested that “an honest review would be appropriate” upon winning (and given that the book was released almost 2 years ago, perhaps they should have added “prompt”).
March 11, 2015
I received this book through Net Galley for an honest review. I want to thank the publisher for letting me review this book.
First, let me say, this book was fantastic and I have it finished in just over 24 hours. This is the second book in the Reeve LeClaire series. I have not read the first book “The Edge of Normal” but, I sure will be now! That being said, I can tell you will not feel clueless about not having read the first book, the author, Carla Norton, does a very good job at letting you know what has happened to poor Reese.
Reese is a young woman who is trying to move on with her life after being held captive for years by Daryl Wayne Flint as his own personal “canvass”. She a college student now and moved to new state. Flint is locked up in a mental hospital. However, Flint cleverly escapes from prison and is on the run. Oh how everyone misunderstood him and what he was capable of.
Reese finds out that Flint has escaped while she is at a dinner party. Flint has killed someone. Reese feels the need to help and when she does people (meaning, the police) don’t believe her until the next victim is killed. Reese faces her demons and flies back home (much to the dismay of her father and sister) to help a retired FBI agent (her old case worker) find and track him down. He’s always one step ahead but, she is in tune to the way her “monster” thinks and acts and is tracking him down (after all, she was locked up with him for years). By helping catch Flint, can she help save a bunch of unsolved children’s kidnappings and murders as well?
I’m not going to go into the rest but, I don’t want to give anything away. It’s a very good, fast moving book. It kept my attention and all I wanted to do was keep picking it up. You will feel for Reese and wish her luck but also be afraid for her. I mean who in their right mind wants to go in person after someone who kept them locked up for years?
I truly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the previous book.
First, let me say, this book was fantastic and I have it finished in just over 24 hours. This is the second book in the Reeve LeClaire series. I have not read the first book “The Edge of Normal” but, I sure will be now! That being said, I can tell you will not feel clueless about not having read the first book, the author, Carla Norton, does a very good job at letting you know what has happened to poor Reese.
Reese is a young woman who is trying to move on with her life after being held captive for years by Daryl Wayne Flint as his own personal “canvass”. She a college student now and moved to new state. Flint is locked up in a mental hospital. However, Flint cleverly escapes from prison and is on the run. Oh how everyone misunderstood him and what he was capable of.
Reese finds out that Flint has escaped while she is at a dinner party. Flint has killed someone. Reese feels the need to help and when she does people (meaning, the police) don’t believe her until the next victim is killed. Reese faces her demons and flies back home (much to the dismay of her father and sister) to help a retired FBI agent (her old case worker) find and track him down. He’s always one step ahead but, she is in tune to the way her “monster” thinks and acts and is tracking him down (after all, she was locked up with him for years). By helping catch Flint, can she help save a bunch of unsolved children’s kidnappings and murders as well?
I’m not going to go into the rest but, I don’t want to give anything away. It’s a very good, fast moving book. It kept my attention and all I wanted to do was keep picking it up. You will feel for Reese and wish her luck but also be afraid for her. I mean who in their right mind wants to go in person after someone who kept them locked up for years?
I truly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the previous book.
July 1, 2015
This book was so good that I just could not put it down. I'm still shaking from the adrenaline going through my body right now because I just finished it. Reggie is abducted when she is 12 and held hostage for four years. The only way she escaped was the fact that her captor was wounded while she was in his car trunk in a collision with a drunk driver. Seven years later, her captor escapes and everyone believes he's coming for Reggie.
The majority of this story is the captor trying to abduct other girls, but Reggie keeps showing up. Either on TV or when he's scouting with binoculars. Believe me, this is no monster you want on the loose.
This one definitely had me reading at break neck speed hoping this too smart maniac gets caught.
This was my first book by Carla Norton and it will not be my last. This was definitely an entertaining and heart palpitating book to read. I highly recommend it.
Thank you St. Martin's Press and Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this fantastic e-galley!
The majority of this story is the captor trying to abduct other girls, but Reggie keeps showing up. Either on TV or when he's scouting with binoculars. Believe me, this is no monster you want on the loose.
This one definitely had me reading at break neck speed hoping this too smart maniac gets caught.
This was my first book by Carla Norton and it will not be my last. This was definitely an entertaining and heart palpitating book to read. I highly recommend it.
Thank you St. Martin's Press and Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this fantastic e-galley!
October 2, 2016
excellent read...Carla Norton once again gives us a story that kicks and punches in all the right places, her ability to create such complex personalities within her characters allows the reader to become totally engaged without becoming confused. I await #3 with high expectations!
February 10, 2017
2.5 stars. Competent writing but wildly unoriginal. I feel I have read this book a dozen times already. There is nothing new here. The "voice" is identical to a handful of other mystery writers and the plotting is cliched. The end result is forgettable. Norton is a decent story teller and the prose is inoffensive but it feels like a pastiche of every thriller ever written.
April 2, 2022
Turns out i read book one 8 years ago. This was fast paced and interesting enough . Maybe I woud have liked more read closer to book 1?
March 1, 2024
Poeh lang geleden dat ik een boek heb gelezen, wat door het verhaal heen zo goed de spanning weet vast te houden.
Dit boek werkte verslavend. Ik kon het niet wegleggen en moest en zou weten hoe het eindigde.
Dit boek werkte verslavend. Ik kon het niet wegleggen en moest en zou weten hoe het eindigde.
July 9, 2018
I loved this second Reeve LeClaire's book as much as the first one (better be read in order even if I think it could work as a stand alone), and I thought the ending was better. No cliff hanger there, but a nice hint to a third book (I need to read that one if it really comes out)
The writing style of the author is really good, characters are very well portrayed, I still hope that there will really be a third book that could give Reeve a little bit of love in her life, there is a charming young men in the horizon and I'd like so much to read how it plays out, and I'd also like to see one or two more killers behind bars since they really deserve it!
Apart from my personal longing to hear more of the story the book in itself was complete and enjoyable, nothing much to say, a solid read, a little dark but not heavy, could be a nice change for a summer read if you are in the mood!
I listened to the audio version at it was a good choice. Loved the reader!
The writing style of the author is really good, characters are very well portrayed, I still hope that there will really be a third book that could give Reeve a little bit of love in her life, there is a charming young men in the horizon and I'd like so much to read how it plays out, and I'd also like to see one or two more killers behind bars since they really deserve it!
Apart from my personal longing to hear more of the story the book in itself was complete and enjoyable, nothing much to say, a solid read, a little dark but not heavy, could be a nice change for a summer read if you are in the mood!
I listened to the audio version at it was a good choice. Loved the reader!
August 16, 2015
My thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunty to read this in exchange for an honest review. A huge 5 stars or 10/10 from me. Thanks to Carla Norton for letting us into their world.
Firstly, can I say Wow!!! It's been a while since I've read a book that has made me feel like that.
I'd never heard of Carla Norton until I saw this book on NetGalley, I requested it on impulse and I'm so glad that I did. This is the second book in the Reeve LeClaire series, but it reads very easily as a standalone. However, having said that, I have requested the first one from the Library purely due to having loved this one so much and I need to find out what happened previously.
I was gripped from the start until the very end. I was on the roller coaster and couldn't get off, I just had to find out what happened and rattled my way through this one very quickly.
Reggie LeClaire has now taken on a new name in order to try to put behind her what had happened to her when she was a young teen. Now known as Reeve she is a college student and no longer the once captive victim of Daryl Wayne Flint. Flint is a resident in a hospital for the criminally insane. However, her life is about to turn upside down and memories that had been banished come to the fore as Flint escapes and she becomes obsessed with him, as she feels that she can help the authorities find him. She feels that having been his victim in the past, that she can second guess what he will do, that she has insight into his mind.
To find out if Reeve can help find Flint, you need to read this thriller. But, more importantly than finding that out, you just need to read this thriller as it's very very clever and will draw you in. It's very well written and easy to read the smaller chapters make you want to keep reading just one more and one more. You will feel that you are one of the characters as you read this, as that's how I felt it was as if I was there and I was experiencing all that they were going through.
This one will stay with me for some time. Read it please.
Firstly, can I say Wow!!! It's been a while since I've read a book that has made me feel like that.
I'd never heard of Carla Norton until I saw this book on NetGalley, I requested it on impulse and I'm so glad that I did. This is the second book in the Reeve LeClaire series, but it reads very easily as a standalone. However, having said that, I have requested the first one from the Library purely due to having loved this one so much and I need to find out what happened previously.
I was gripped from the start until the very end. I was on the roller coaster and couldn't get off, I just had to find out what happened and rattled my way through this one very quickly.
Reggie LeClaire has now taken on a new name in order to try to put behind her what had happened to her when she was a young teen. Now known as Reeve she is a college student and no longer the once captive victim of Daryl Wayne Flint. Flint is a resident in a hospital for the criminally insane. However, her life is about to turn upside down and memories that had been banished come to the fore as Flint escapes and she becomes obsessed with him, as she feels that she can help the authorities find him. She feels that having been his victim in the past, that she can second guess what he will do, that she has insight into his mind.
To find out if Reeve can help find Flint, you need to read this thriller. But, more importantly than finding that out, you just need to read this thriller as it's very very clever and will draw you in. It's very well written and easy to read the smaller chapters make you want to keep reading just one more and one more. You will feel that you are one of the characters as you read this, as that's how I felt it was as if I was there and I was experiencing all that they were going through.
This one will stay with me for some time. Read it please.
March 19, 2016
I received my copy of What Doesn't Kill Her through Goodreads for my honest review. I would like to thank the author, Carla Norton, for the signed copy.
"Stick to the plan....."
Now this is the common thread that runs through this psychological thriller by Carla Norton. Upon reading it, you'll find out who does and doesn't stick to the plan. One misguided step, one misspoken word, one untimely action can take you in a direction that has unspeakable consequences. And the consequences ripple across your life and the lives of others caught in the crossfire.
I had not read Ms. Norton's book, The Edge of Normal, which precedes this book and gives the backstory of Reeve (Reggie) LeClaire's abduction. I know that it will be next on my list. Ms. Norton has a writing style that flows easily across the page and heightens the reader's desire to further savor each chapter. I finished the book in one day. Her characters are well-developed and she has done her research on what motivates the psychotic criminal mind. Her descriptive devices sculpt the psychopath, Daryl Wayne Flint, into such an abhorrence to the reader without delving into overuse of blood and gore. Ms. Norton allows her readers to swirl those descriptors within the shadows of their own mindset.
This is Reeve's story. This is the victim presented in an honest and forthcoming way. Does Reeve faulter or will she triumph in the end? Carla Norton's Reeve gives a voice to the victimized. What Doesn't Kill Her is not only a very satisfying read, but it opens a dialog on thousands of others like Reeve who must exist in a world of uncertainty today. Seconds do matter and choices do matter. Bravo, Carla Norton!
"Stick to the plan....."
Now this is the common thread that runs through this psychological thriller by Carla Norton. Upon reading it, you'll find out who does and doesn't stick to the plan. One misguided step, one misspoken word, one untimely action can take you in a direction that has unspeakable consequences. And the consequences ripple across your life and the lives of others caught in the crossfire.
I had not read Ms. Norton's book, The Edge of Normal, which precedes this book and gives the backstory of Reeve (Reggie) LeClaire's abduction. I know that it will be next on my list. Ms. Norton has a writing style that flows easily across the page and heightens the reader's desire to further savor each chapter. I finished the book in one day. Her characters are well-developed and she has done her research on what motivates the psychotic criminal mind. Her descriptive devices sculpt the psychopath, Daryl Wayne Flint, into such an abhorrence to the reader without delving into overuse of blood and gore. Ms. Norton allows her readers to swirl those descriptors within the shadows of their own mindset.
This is Reeve's story. This is the victim presented in an honest and forthcoming way. Does Reeve faulter or will she triumph in the end? Carla Norton's Reeve gives a voice to the victimized. What Doesn't Kill Her is not only a very satisfying read, but it opens a dialog on thousands of others like Reeve who must exist in a world of uncertainty today. Seconds do matter and choices do matter. Bravo, Carla Norton!
May 20, 2018
I read The Edge of Normal and loved reading it to the point I couldn't put it down. Carla seems to have that effect no matter what difficult themes she writes about.
Settle was baking hot, Reggie was stranded with nothing to do. Her best friend had gone on a family vacation. So, if Reggie wanted to go the lake for a swim, she would have to take matters in her own hands. Any kid with a bike would have done the same thing. After she swims in the lake she got her bike to go home and found that she had a flat tyre.
A neighbour who was just getting into his van noticed Reggie pushing her bike along and asks her you live nearby? you need a ride? He claimed he can fix her bike. He offers to take her bike home and she can walk home. Considering this offer Reggie lifts her bike into the van and she is hit with a jolt.
Your heart will beat louder reading on. Years later Daryl Wayne Flint escapes prison. Of course Reggie never expected her kidnapper to walk the earth again.
The story builds up a thrilling climax, now Daryl Wayne Flint has escaped he has already killed and is running rampant.
I look up to the beautiful works of Carla Norton.
Settle was baking hot, Reggie was stranded with nothing to do. Her best friend had gone on a family vacation. So, if Reggie wanted to go the lake for a swim, she would have to take matters in her own hands. Any kid with a bike would have done the same thing. After she swims in the lake she got her bike to go home and found that she had a flat tyre.
A neighbour who was just getting into his van noticed Reggie pushing her bike along and asks her you live nearby? you need a ride? He claimed he can fix her bike. He offers to take her bike home and she can walk home. Considering this offer Reggie lifts her bike into the van and she is hit with a jolt.
Your heart will beat louder reading on. Years later Daryl Wayne Flint escapes prison. Of course Reggie never expected her kidnapper to walk the earth again.
The story builds up a thrilling climax, now Daryl Wayne Flint has escaped he has already killed and is running rampant.
I look up to the beautiful works of Carla Norton.
February 10, 2015
I received this copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I grew up reading different mysteries and thrillers by authors such as Mary Higgins Clark and Sidney Sheldon and loved feeling that adrenaline rush with a really great story. This book definitely had my heart pounding and wanting more. I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. Reeve’s character seemed so strong, especially considering everything she has gone through. Norton did a fabulous job of making Flint feel like an incredibly creepy man. I was completely drawn into this story that felt so real. The settings were well described so I was easily able to picture them in my minds, especially Wertz’s, now Flint’s cabin in the woods. I enjoyed this book so much that last night I had to stay up until I finished it, even though I was really tired. I do not regret that decision at all! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great thriller to read!
https://thewornbookmark.wordpress.com...
I grew up reading different mysteries and thrillers by authors such as Mary Higgins Clark and Sidney Sheldon and loved feeling that adrenaline rush with a really great story. This book definitely had my heart pounding and wanting more. I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next. Reeve’s character seemed so strong, especially considering everything she has gone through. Norton did a fabulous job of making Flint feel like an incredibly creepy man. I was completely drawn into this story that felt so real. The settings were well described so I was easily able to picture them in my minds, especially Wertz’s, now Flint’s cabin in the woods. I enjoyed this book so much that last night I had to stay up until I finished it, even though I was really tired. I do not regret that decision at all! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great thriller to read!
https://thewornbookmark.wordpress.com...
December 17, 2015
What Doesn't Kill Her
Carla Norton
Contemporary
Crime Thriller
3.5 out of 5 stars
What Doesn't Kill Her is a fast paced read that keeps you hanging until the bitter end. I was so afraid for Reeve LeClaire the entire book, but I never grew to like her honestly. She was a hardass and not someone I could seem to like. I enjoyed the plot, location, but I did not become invested in the characters. It was a good read but not one I want to follow as a series.
Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read for a fair review.
Four Questions
Would I recommend to my friends?
Yes, some of them.
Would I read a sequel or continue a series?
No
Book to Movie? No
Did I think about the characters after I finished the book?
No, not really.
ARC - Yes
NetGalley - Yes
Read 8/2015
Carla Norton
Contemporary
Crime Thriller
3.5 out of 5 stars
What Doesn't Kill Her is a fast paced read that keeps you hanging until the bitter end. I was so afraid for Reeve LeClaire the entire book, but I never grew to like her honestly. She was a hardass and not someone I could seem to like. I enjoyed the plot, location, but I did not become invested in the characters. It was a good read but not one I want to follow as a series.
Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read for a fair review.
Four Questions
Would I recommend to my friends?
Yes, some of them.
Would I read a sequel or continue a series?
No
Book to Movie? No
Did I think about the characters after I finished the book?
No, not really.
ARC - Yes
NetGalley - Yes
Read 8/2015
May 22, 2016
Daryl Wayne Flint is one clever psychopath.
11 years after snatching 12 year old Reggie Leclaire, he is now plotting his escape from a secure Psychiatric Hospital ...with the help of his mother.
Flint is sadistic and obsessed with the number three. he taps his foot three time, repeats words three times and he gave me the chills.
Reggie, having changed her name to Reeve, is determined to help with the re-capture of her abductor and the events that follow are quite riveting. Norton keeps her readers gripped and has written a terrific realistic tale.
I have not read Carla Nortons previous book 'The Edge of Normal', which covers the backstory of Reeves 4 years in Flints basement, but Hunted is able to be read as a standalone.
I enjoyed this one.
11 years after snatching 12 year old Reggie Leclaire, he is now plotting his escape from a secure Psychiatric Hospital ...with the help of his mother.
Flint is sadistic and obsessed with the number three. he taps his foot three time, repeats words three times and he gave me the chills.
Reggie, having changed her name to Reeve, is determined to help with the re-capture of her abductor and the events that follow are quite riveting. Norton keeps her readers gripped and has written a terrific realistic tale.
I have not read Carla Nortons previous book 'The Edge of Normal', which covers the backstory of Reeves 4 years in Flints basement, but Hunted is able to be read as a standalone.
I enjoyed this one.
April 26, 2019
I will definitely be reading more about Reeve LeClaire.
September 1, 2018
Carla Norton
What Doesn't Kill Her
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Twenty-three year old Reeve LeClaire is tired of being portrayed as a victim, although it is understandable that people see her that way. When she was twelve, a mentally disturbed and sadistic felon, Daryl Wayne Flint, snatched her and kept her imprisoned in a basement for four years, where he abused, tortured, and mutilated her. Flint was finally apprehended, but instead of going to prison, he is sent to the forensic unit of Olshaker Psychiatric Hospital in the state of Washington. Seven years pass. Reeve, a college student living in San Francisco, is trying to put the past behind her. She has no idea that her former captor has a getaway strategy and remains as obsessed with her as ever.
Wow such a carefully plotted and mesmerizing thriller .I really enjoyed the plot, characters, & chilling note that it ended on. Her character development was very good . It is a fast paced thriller that I could not put down. Now that Reeve is older and not as fragile, it makes the story even more compelling. It has a perfect and surprising ending. Great read! Highly recommend.If you love reading thrillers, I highly recommend you read this one as it’s truly amazing. Just be sure you start with the first one (The Edge of Normal) , if you haven’t read it already. But it gives you enough info in the begining of this book you could read this one as a standalone. But this is such a great story i recommend you start from the first book. This was such a Great redemption story! "What Doesn't Kill Her" is a great yet dark, menacing, and suspenseful novel . Very well-written and such an insightful story that engages the reader from beginning to end. Once again, Carla Norton does a terrific job weaving all the characters, and all the subplots making the novel easy to follow, and a thoroughly engaging and stunning psychological thriller that you don’t want to end. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. Like Reeve, the flawed yet courageous heroine that Norton has depicted, she delivers a loathsome and evil character with Flint. By the way, I love how the author ended the novel. As I don’t want to give any of it away, I’ll just leave it at that.
What Doesn't Kill Her
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Twenty-three year old Reeve LeClaire is tired of being portrayed as a victim, although it is understandable that people see her that way. When she was twelve, a mentally disturbed and sadistic felon, Daryl Wayne Flint, snatched her and kept her imprisoned in a basement for four years, where he abused, tortured, and mutilated her. Flint was finally apprehended, but instead of going to prison, he is sent to the forensic unit of Olshaker Psychiatric Hospital in the state of Washington. Seven years pass. Reeve, a college student living in San Francisco, is trying to put the past behind her. She has no idea that her former captor has a getaway strategy and remains as obsessed with her as ever.
Wow such a carefully plotted and mesmerizing thriller .I really enjoyed the plot, characters, & chilling note that it ended on. Her character development was very good . It is a fast paced thriller that I could not put down. Now that Reeve is older and not as fragile, it makes the story even more compelling. It has a perfect and surprising ending. Great read! Highly recommend.If you love reading thrillers, I highly recommend you read this one as it’s truly amazing. Just be sure you start with the first one (The Edge of Normal) , if you haven’t read it already. But it gives you enough info in the begining of this book you could read this one as a standalone. But this is such a great story i recommend you start from the first book. This was such a Great redemption story! "What Doesn't Kill Her" is a great yet dark, menacing, and suspenseful novel . Very well-written and such an insightful story that engages the reader from beginning to end. Once again, Carla Norton does a terrific job weaving all the characters, and all the subplots making the novel easy to follow, and a thoroughly engaging and stunning psychological thriller that you don’t want to end. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. Like Reeve, the flawed yet courageous heroine that Norton has depicted, she delivers a loathsome and evil character with Flint. By the way, I love how the author ended the novel. As I don’t want to give any of it away, I’ll just leave it at that.
January 11, 2018
Excellent book. Kept me interested all the way, very action packed. The killer was really creepy and you felt connected to all the characters. Highly recommend this book!
April 3, 2018
The end accelerates a little quickly but very good thriller overall!
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