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As Night Falls
From the acclaimed author of Ruin Falls and Cover of Snow comes a breathless new novel of psychological suspense about a dark, twisted turn of events that could shatter a family—a read perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Chris Bohjalian, and Nancy Pickard.
Sandy Tremont has always tried to give her family everything. But, as the sky darkens over the Adirondacks and a heavy snowfall looms, an escaped murderer with the power to take it all away draws close.
In her isolated home in the shadowy woods, Sandy prepares dinner after a fight with her daughter, Ivy. Upstairs, the fifteen-year-old—smart, brave, and with every reason to be angry tonight—keeps her distance from her mother. Sandy’s husband, Ben, a wilderness guide, arrives late to find a home simmering with unease.
Nearby, two desperate men on the run make their way through the fading light, bloodstained and determined to leave no loose ends or witnesses. After almost twenty years as prison cellmates, they have become a deadly team: Harlan the muscle, Nick the mind and will. As they approach a secluded house and look through its windows to see a cozy domestic scene, Nick knows that here he will find what he’s looking for . . . before he disappears forever.
Opening the door to the Tremont home, Nick brings not only a legacy of terror but a secret that threatens to drag Sandy with him into the darkness.
Sandy Tremont has always tried to give her family everything. But, as the sky darkens over the Adirondacks and a heavy snowfall looms, an escaped murderer with the power to take it all away draws close.
In her isolated home in the shadowy woods, Sandy prepares dinner after a fight with her daughter, Ivy. Upstairs, the fifteen-year-old—smart, brave, and with every reason to be angry tonight—keeps her distance from her mother. Sandy’s husband, Ben, a wilderness guide, arrives late to find a home simmering with unease.
Nearby, two desperate men on the run make their way through the fading light, bloodstained and determined to leave no loose ends or witnesses. After almost twenty years as prison cellmates, they have become a deadly team: Harlan the muscle, Nick the mind and will. As they approach a secluded house and look through its windows to see a cozy domestic scene, Nick knows that here he will find what he’s looking for . . . before he disappears forever.
Opening the door to the Tremont home, Nick brings not only a legacy of terror but a secret that threatens to drag Sandy with him into the darkness.
359 pages, Hardcover
First published June 30, 2015
226 people are currently reading
4389 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Milchman
17 books625 followersJenny Milchman is the USA Today bestselling author of three novels, as well as the forthcoming Wicked River. Her books have won the Mary Higgins Clark and Silver Falchion awards, been praised by the New York Times, San Francisco Review of Books, the AP, and many other publications.
Jenny has given over five hundred workshops and talks on the writing and publishing process. She sits on the board of directors of International Thriller Writers, is a member of the Sisters in Crime speakers bureau, and founded Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day, which is celebrated annually in all fifty states and on five continents.
Jenny has given over five hundred workshops and talks on the writing and publishing process. She sits on the board of directors of International Thriller Writers, is a member of the Sisters in Crime speakers bureau, and founded Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day, which is celebrated annually in all fifty states and on five continents.
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June 19, 2016
2nd update....
For Those who enjoy a good mystery thriller. This book is being offered again for $1.99 on Kindle amazon....today. I loved it --- (still need to pick another book to read by this author) --why aren't 'those' books a $1.99 yet?
Happy Father's day to those who are 'Father's!
Update: GREAT NEWS: This book is on sale for a $1.99 today. If you have not read it...you are in for a treat! It's my personal favorite mystery thriller book of the YEAR!!!!
Next time uninvited guests come to your home, talk too loud, has too many drinks, and stays too long, count your blessings!
At least your annoying guests, did not just escape from prison!
Living away from town --enjoying Mountain living, Sandy, a psychologist, home from work, was in her kitchen preparing dinner. She and her daughter Ivy had a small tension discussion. Ivy takes to her room upstairs -with her dog Mackie --to listen to music -text her friends -do what teens do in their rooms when moody.
As Sandy is sitting at her kitchen table worrying about her daughter -and her skills as a mother --she is waiting for her husband Ben, a wilderness guide, to return home from work. After years of marriage --her husband still excites her-warms-her-calms her.
Ben walks in...all feels 'right'...
NOT FOR LONG....
Those uninvited guests have arrived!
Harlan and Nick manage to enter the Tremont's secluded house -- Its a very cold chilly-night with heavy snowfalls.
When Ivy was upstairs as Harlan and Nick enter -- came face to face with Ben and Sandy --I was utterly frightened.
This psychological suspense story is RIVETING!!!! Its also an artfully crafted biography --(the growth of), a 'psychopathic convict'!
The author, Jenny Milchman -flips back & forth in her storytelling of present time -- and into the past family life of Nick. The present-time-story will have the reader 'sweating'..'shaking'...(no time to think about 'who-what-how-when-why')...I was so scare -I didn't care if I figured out the ending -I was just hoping for survival: soon!
The 'past' storytelling is fascinating! How much do we blame a parent for a 'bad-seed' child? Even if we do --'what' can we do? Where does freedom to 'parent' begin and end? Is not abusing a child ever abuse? This section of the storytelling is so damn compelling --its brilliant. It also gives the reader a few minutes to 'breath' when taken out of the 'present time',...(our shaking bodies are lifted from the heightened levels of suspense).
We 'feel' the shift (from present to past)--Our cerebral brains are hard at work --as Nick's mother, Barbara, paints how she 'mothered' little Nicky.
"As a child, hurting people didn't cost Nick anything because he'd never had to pay for his actions. Their mother glossed over them, or looked the other way. Even when Nick went to prison, their mother maintained that a miscarriage of justice had transpired, and Nick was spared disapprobation from the only person whose condemnation might've mattered".
This story tugs at you.
Beware: This story may be dangerous for your 'TO-DO' list. I have not been able to get other work done. I apologize to my friends for not returning mail yet. I could not put this book down!
If you are wondering if there is a twist? The answer is yes!
I didn't have time to guess it...It was IN MY FACE --'before' I had time to think about it!
Thriller -entertainment-at its BEST!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley --for the discovery of a new author! WOW!
For Those who enjoy a good mystery thriller. This book is being offered again for $1.99 on Kindle amazon....today. I loved it --- (still need to pick another book to read by this author) --why aren't 'those' books a $1.99 yet?
Happy Father's day to those who are 'Father's!
Update: GREAT NEWS: This book is on sale for a $1.99 today. If you have not read it...you are in for a treat! It's my personal favorite mystery thriller book of the YEAR!!!!
Next time uninvited guests come to your home, talk too loud, has too many drinks, and stays too long, count your blessings!
At least your annoying guests, did not just escape from prison!
Living away from town --enjoying Mountain living, Sandy, a psychologist, home from work, was in her kitchen preparing dinner. She and her daughter Ivy had a small tension discussion. Ivy takes to her room upstairs -with her dog Mackie --to listen to music -text her friends -do what teens do in their rooms when moody.
As Sandy is sitting at her kitchen table worrying about her daughter -and her skills as a mother --she is waiting for her husband Ben, a wilderness guide, to return home from work. After years of marriage --her husband still excites her-warms-her-calms her.
Ben walks in...all feels 'right'...
NOT FOR LONG....
Those uninvited guests have arrived!
Harlan and Nick manage to enter the Tremont's secluded house -- Its a very cold chilly-night with heavy snowfalls.
When Ivy was upstairs as Harlan and Nick enter -- came face to face with Ben and Sandy --I was utterly frightened.
This psychological suspense story is RIVETING!!!! Its also an artfully crafted biography --(the growth of), a 'psychopathic convict'!
The author, Jenny Milchman -flips back & forth in her storytelling of present time -- and into the past family life of Nick. The present-time-story will have the reader 'sweating'..'shaking'...(no time to think about 'who-what-how-when-why')...I was so scare -I didn't care if I figured out the ending -I was just hoping for survival: soon!
The 'past' storytelling is fascinating! How much do we blame a parent for a 'bad-seed' child? Even if we do --'what' can we do? Where does freedom to 'parent' begin and end? Is not abusing a child ever abuse? This section of the storytelling is so damn compelling --its brilliant. It also gives the reader a few minutes to 'breath' when taken out of the 'present time',...(our shaking bodies are lifted from the heightened levels of suspense).
We 'feel' the shift (from present to past)--Our cerebral brains are hard at work --as Nick's mother, Barbara, paints how she 'mothered' little Nicky.
"As a child, hurting people didn't cost Nick anything because he'd never had to pay for his actions. Their mother glossed over them, or looked the other way. Even when Nick went to prison, their mother maintained that a miscarriage of justice had transpired, and Nick was spared disapprobation from the only person whose condemnation might've mattered".
This story tugs at you.
Beware: This story may be dangerous for your 'TO-DO' list. I have not been able to get other work done. I apologize to my friends for not returning mail yet. I could not put this book down!
If you are wondering if there is a twist? The answer is yes!
I didn't have time to guess it...It was IN MY FACE --'before' I had time to think about it!
Thriller -entertainment-at its BEST!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley --for the discovery of a new author! WOW!
July 31, 2015
3.5 What do you rate a book that creeped you out at the same time it also pissed you off? Will ponder. This is seriously one creepy book, a book you don't want to red when you are alone at night, nor if you live in the middle of nowhere. For those who do not lock their doors, this book will have you checking them and the windows. It is everyone's worst nightmare. The tension almost unbearable if not for occasional breaks where we learn about Nick's very strange upbringing. Which gets me to the pissed off part, the mother. Won't tell you more, you'll have to read this for yourself.
But it could have been edited a bit more, maybe not quite as long. After a while I just didn't want to read anymore. It went from creepy and compelling, (Thanks Christine)to ludicrous and overkill. Sort of like a continuous loop of bad things after bad things. Too much. Yes, there are a couple of twists, one good, one kind of out of nowhere. Still a book that will cause you to shiver and maybe heed your safety precautions a little more thoroughly.
ARC from NetGalley.
But it could have been edited a bit more, maybe not quite as long. After a while I just didn't want to read anymore. It went from creepy and compelling, (Thanks Christine)to ludicrous and overkill. Sort of like a continuous loop of bad things after bad things. Too much. Yes, there are a couple of twists, one good, one kind of out of nowhere. Still a book that will cause you to shiver and maybe heed your safety precautions a little more thoroughly.
ARC from NetGalley.
September 27, 2015
Home invasion. The very thought of it makes my blood run cold. The horror of having your beloved sanctuary invaded is made all too real here. The tension thrums like a tuning fork, and the desperation is palpable.
Good meaty characterizations. Harlan manages to curry a bit of sympathy as the huge simpleton (think Hodor from Game of Thrones) loyal to a fault, who is deftly manipulated by psycho Nick. Mayhap a bit of overkill before all was said and done, but I was pretty much glued to the pages throughout and will readily check out the author's other books.
Good meaty characterizations. Harlan manages to curry a bit of sympathy as the huge simpleton (think Hodor from Game of Thrones) loyal to a fault, who is deftly manipulated by psycho Nick. Mayhap a bit of overkill before all was said and done, but I was pretty much glued to the pages throughout and will readily check out the author's other books.
July 19, 2015
Whoa!! AS NIGHT FALLS - what a fantastic read. It was on my to-read shelf but decided to start it right away after it was highly recommended to me (Thanks Elyse!!) I could easily have read this in one sitting but it was a busy few days. I fit it in every moment I had free.
This storyline unfolds with surprises and twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The Tremont family lives on the outskirts of a small town in New York. There is a great deal of suspense and intrigue packed into one long evening and night.
Main character Sandy is making dinner as her husband Ben arrives home. Their fifteen-year-old daughter Ivy is up in her room angry at her mother after an argument. All of sudden the family is thrown into a tailspin when two escape convicts invade their home. Nick an extremely dangerous psychopath who controls Harlan a giant of a man with obvious mental limitations.
I really don't want to give too much of the plot away but this is such a wonderfully dark and intense story. The backstory of Nick intertwined with what is currently happening on this crazy evening makes for such a great story. The family dynamics and secrets that come to light had me wondering what could possibly happen next.
The characters were so well developed. Sandy determined to escape her past had no idea how her secrets could affect her family. Ivy so much the typical teenager but in many ways wise beyond her years. Ben who just wants to protect his family but likely feels quite helpless. Even Mac the loyal aging family dog was such an important and lovable character. I had a hard time disliking Harlan and for
some reason Lennie from To Kill a Mockingbird kept coming to mind the more I got to know about him. Nick - similar to George in the way he was able to mostly control Harlan.
I hated having to put the book down and it was usually IMPOSSIBLE to find a spot to stop. I felt very tense at times even holding my
breath just waiting to 'see' what was going to happen next. My shoulders were actually sore as I must have holding myself very tight.
What the Tremont family as well as some of the other characters go through this long night that can only be describe as terrifying.
This fast-paced psychological thriller with it's twist and turns is such a captivating story that will likely grip you and keep you on the edge until the very end. I know it did for me!!
I highly recommend this book!!
This storyline unfolds with surprises and twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The Tremont family lives on the outskirts of a small town in New York. There is a great deal of suspense and intrigue packed into one long evening and night.
Main character Sandy is making dinner as her husband Ben arrives home. Their fifteen-year-old daughter Ivy is up in her room angry at her mother after an argument. All of sudden the family is thrown into a tailspin when two escape convicts invade their home. Nick an extremely dangerous psychopath who controls Harlan a giant of a man with obvious mental limitations.
I really don't want to give too much of the plot away but this is such a wonderfully dark and intense story. The backstory of Nick intertwined with what is currently happening on this crazy evening makes for such a great story. The family dynamics and secrets that come to light had me wondering what could possibly happen next.
The characters were so well developed. Sandy determined to escape her past had no idea how her secrets could affect her family. Ivy so much the typical teenager but in many ways wise beyond her years. Ben who just wants to protect his family but likely feels quite helpless. Even Mac the loyal aging family dog was such an important and lovable character. I had a hard time disliking Harlan and for
some reason Lennie from To Kill a Mockingbird kept coming to mind the more I got to know about him. Nick - similar to George in the way he was able to mostly control Harlan.
I hated having to put the book down and it was usually IMPOSSIBLE to find a spot to stop. I felt very tense at times even holding my
breath just waiting to 'see' what was going to happen next. My shoulders were actually sore as I must have holding myself very tight.
What the Tremont family as well as some of the other characters go through this long night that can only be describe as terrifying.
This fast-paced psychological thriller with it's twist and turns is such a captivating story that will likely grip you and keep you on the edge until the very end. I know it did for me!!
I highly recommend this book!!
May 29, 2015
I want to thank Net Galley, Ballantine Books, and author Jenny Milchman for an ARC of As Night Falls in exchange for an unbiased review.
I very much enjoyed As Night Falls, an excellent psychological thriller and third book (all stand alones) written by Jenny Milchman. Be sure to have your antianxiety meds on board before starting this one. It starts innocently enough, but you can just tell something is going to happen. The suspense progressively builds as the set up plays out, culminating in a prison break followed by invasion of a family home.
The story alternates between present day and the past as Ms. Milchman lays out why the bad guy is the way he is. This is not a new technique, and when it is employed I usually have some modicum of sympathy for the baddie, but not this time. This guy has few redeeming factors in my opinion, and is a natural to root against. On the other hand, the family under siege, Sandy and Ben along with daughter Ivy and dog Mac, is easy to cheer for. I particularly liked Sandy, a psychological therapist. Her professional skills come in very handy in terms of dealing both with the intruders and her teenage daughter during this nightmare. Ms. Milchman’s psychological research shows well.
There are a couple of unique qualities to this tale. It is interesting to see how the family “botches” their handling of the takeover, allowing things to really get out of control. I was also totally floored by a terrific twist that hits without warning that had me yelling “BRILLIANT!” right out loud. This little bombshell totally changes the landscape of the story, which propelled my interest to an even higher level. I should also mention that I was surprised to discover that Ms. Milchman had me actually sympathizing with the bad guy’s sidekick. I hate to call him a bad guy too.
In terms of suspense, this novel has it in spades. It is very disturbing to see the extent of what the main antagonist is capable of as the story moves along. And this family is smart. As hope for escape emerges with one good idea after another, it is jolting to see it dashed time and time again.
There are a couple of reasons why I knocked off a star. First of all, there are a couple of aspects of the aftermath that I think are implausible. I also found the continual switching from the past to present a bit disruptive to the flow of the narrative, but I do think what that method contributes to the story outweighs its downside.
This is the first book I have read by Ms. Milchman. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to read her first two books, Cover of Snow and Ruin Falls, as well. I recommend As Night Falls, a most captivating and suspenseful novel, to all readers of psychological thrillers and suspense.
I very much enjoyed As Night Falls, an excellent psychological thriller and third book (all stand alones) written by Jenny Milchman. Be sure to have your antianxiety meds on board before starting this one. It starts innocently enough, but you can just tell something is going to happen. The suspense progressively builds as the set up plays out, culminating in a prison break followed by invasion of a family home.
The story alternates between present day and the past as Ms. Milchman lays out why the bad guy is the way he is. This is not a new technique, and when it is employed I usually have some modicum of sympathy for the baddie, but not this time. This guy has few redeeming factors in my opinion, and is a natural to root against. On the other hand, the family under siege, Sandy and Ben along with daughter Ivy and dog Mac, is easy to cheer for. I particularly liked Sandy, a psychological therapist. Her professional skills come in very handy in terms of dealing both with the intruders and her teenage daughter during this nightmare. Ms. Milchman’s psychological research shows well.
There are a couple of unique qualities to this tale. It is interesting to see how the family “botches” their handling of the takeover, allowing things to really get out of control. I was also totally floored by a terrific twist that hits without warning that had me yelling “BRILLIANT!” right out loud. This little bombshell totally changes the landscape of the story, which propelled my interest to an even higher level. I should also mention that I was surprised to discover that Ms. Milchman had me actually sympathizing with the bad guy’s sidekick. I hate to call him a bad guy too.
In terms of suspense, this novel has it in spades. It is very disturbing to see the extent of what the main antagonist is capable of as the story moves along. And this family is smart. As hope for escape emerges with one good idea after another, it is jolting to see it dashed time and time again.
There are a couple of reasons why I knocked off a star. First of all, there are a couple of aspects of the aftermath that I think are implausible. I also found the continual switching from the past to present a bit disruptive to the flow of the narrative, but I do think what that method contributes to the story outweighs its downside.
This is the first book I have read by Ms. Milchman. I enjoyed it so much that I plan to read her first two books, Cover of Snow and Ruin Falls, as well. I recommend As Night Falls, a most captivating and suspenseful novel, to all readers of psychological thrillers and suspense.
June 12, 2015
I save my 5 stars for extraordinary books, but this is definitely a high 4 stars. I’ve mentioned this before but I am only an occasional tourist into the thriller/suspense genre. I easily get grumpy if I’m not enjoying a book that fits in this genre – quick to fret that I am wasting my time -- and I have real limits on the type and extent of gratuitous violence I am willing to put up with. But As Night Falls reminded me why I make this trip from time to time. Sandy, who is a social worker, and her husband and daughter live in an isolated house in the northeast US. Nick and Harlan have just escaped from jail, and they descend on Sandy and her family one dark stormy winter night. What unfolds is hair raising. There’s definitely some violence, but what made this a “can’t put it down read” is that the author does such a great job creating more tension than violence through excellent characters -- showing their inner thoughts, personal motivations and emotions -- and tying the story to their complex pasts. I can’t say more without giving away some crucial spoilers, but yikes! It gripped me from the beginning, and I was riveted to the end. I’m still not sure why I would want to read a book that has me so tense that my shoulders are up to my ears and my stomach’s in a knot, and I can’t tell if this experience is pain or pleasure, but I’m sure I’ll make the trip into the genre again and hopefully I’ll enjoy it as much as this one. In terms of intensity and a suspense/thriller that worked for me, I would put it on the same level as Chevy Stevens’ Those Girls which I read earlier this year. I am curious to know what regular readers of thriller/suspense books will think of As Night Falls. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
April 29, 2015
I would like to thank Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for my copy via Net galley.
When I requested this thriller to read I didn't know what I had started reading. This is one superb book. I would so highly recommend this to anyone who likes thrillers that keep them on the edge of things and wondering what is what and who is who and what is going to happen.
We have these 2 guys ready to break free when out on when out one day and make a run for it ......>
They have both been in prison for many years. We see through their eyes how life has changed whilst they've been locked up inside.
Then we have Sandy, who lives in a secluded place with her husband and teenage daughter, plus their aging and loyal dog.
Sandy's husband and family mean everything to her.
Both parties are thrown together in the highly intense read.
There is a part in this book that the author handles so well, the Mother of one of the grown men. We are taken back in time when he was little, and how his Mother was with him, which then begs the question, are criminals made or breed? It really is food for thought.
I was so taken with their ailing dog, he was going to do anything to protect his family. That was a tearful situation for me, I love animals, and dogs are so loyal aren't they?
Jenny Milchman. She will remain on my list of regular authors as if this book is anything to go by, I am going to read and enjoy any subsequent books from her.
WOW intense
WOW edge of your seat
WOW thrilling
WOW you are unaware of life around you, because life is lived whilst your reading this story.
July 13, 2015
I wish to thank Random House- Ballantine and NetGalley for an ARC of “As Night Falls” by Jenny Milchman in exchange for an honest review. Wow, this was some psychological suspense thriller that had me hooked to my Kindle for the day. I was unable to focus on anything else but this book! It was that good.
A prison break leaves two very dangerous men, Nick and Harlan, running for their life, and ending up at the secluded Adirondack home of Sandy, her husband Ben and their teenage daughter Ivy…and don’t forget “Mac”, their aged dog, a Husky mix.
But why would Nick and Harlan show up there?
Sandy Tremont, was a psychotherapist at the Wedeskyull community Hospital. After being left an inheritance from her grandfather, her husband Ben built them a dream home, in a remote area in the Adirondacks.
But Sandy hides a dark secret, and one that not even her husband or Ivy know anything about.
Sandy is forced to use her training to deal with Nick, a sociopath. She must protect her family at all costs.
The tension is riveting and the suspense builds slowly, with twists to keep the reader’s full attention. We learn about Sandy’s past, her parents, why Nick was sent to prison. The novel switches back and forth as we learn about Nick’s life and his twenty four years of incarceration.
There is no whodunnit in this book. We know who the bad guy is; but how will Sandy and her family get away?
I really enjoyed this novel and highly recommend this standalone novel to all readers of psychological thrillers and suspense.
A prison break leaves two very dangerous men, Nick and Harlan, running for their life, and ending up at the secluded Adirondack home of Sandy, her husband Ben and their teenage daughter Ivy…and don’t forget “Mac”, their aged dog, a Husky mix.
But why would Nick and Harlan show up there?
Sandy Tremont, was a psychotherapist at the Wedeskyull community Hospital. After being left an inheritance from her grandfather, her husband Ben built them a dream home, in a remote area in the Adirondacks.
But Sandy hides a dark secret, and one that not even her husband or Ivy know anything about.
Sandy is forced to use her training to deal with Nick, a sociopath. She must protect her family at all costs.
The tension is riveting and the suspense builds slowly, with twists to keep the reader’s full attention. We learn about Sandy’s past, her parents, why Nick was sent to prison. The novel switches back and forth as we learn about Nick’s life and his twenty four years of incarceration.
There is no whodunnit in this book. We know who the bad guy is; but how will Sandy and her family get away?
I really enjoyed this novel and highly recommend this standalone novel to all readers of psychological thrillers and suspense.
June 3, 2015
***My thanks to NetGalley for providing an ARC for an honest review***
4.5 stars
Hats off to author Jenny Milchman! This book was non-stop page turning suspense which I find amazing considering you already know the 'who done what' right from the get go! I knew I was in for a treat with this book right from the start when the build up to the home invasion had me stressed out, even though I knew it was coming...that's good writing!
This is not a mystery, all the key players are identified early on, but it's the backstory that starts with the antagonist that draws you in. These are characters that you won't forget for a long time! Held back on a 5 star rating due to some predictibility throughout, but threw in the extra half because she didn't resort to killing off Mac!!
4.5 stars
Hats off to author Jenny Milchman! This book was non-stop page turning suspense which I find amazing considering you already know the 'who done what' right from the get go! I knew I was in for a treat with this book right from the start when the build up to the home invasion had me stressed out, even though I knew it was coming...that's good writing!
This is not a mystery, all the key players are identified early on, but it's the backstory that starts with the antagonist that draws you in. These are characters that you won't forget for a long time! Held back on a 5 star rating due to some predictibility throughout, but threw in the extra half because she didn't resort to killing off Mac!!
August 4, 2015
AS NIGHT FALLS is one of the best thrillers I’ve read this year (2015). Jenny Milcham paces this novel so well that reading leaves one breathless. She writes such great imagery that it’s easy to picture the scenes while reading. It doesn’t get the full 5 star treatment because the very beginning was slow. Also, one character was too over-the-top and unrealistically weird (Barbara).
It’s a thriller about two escaped cons attempting to travel through the Adirondack Mountains to Canada. What’s interesting is that this just happened in June 2015 when two convicts escaped the Clinton County Correctional Facility in the Adirondack Mountains. In this novel, the escaped cons do far more damage and destruction.
The cons stop at a family’s isolated home to get supplies for their trek. What Milchman does well is write a psychopath into life. In alternating chapters, she writes what’s occurring in real time and how the making of the psychopath occurred. The psychopath’s mother, Barbara, was far too unrealistic (to me) which distracted from the otherwise heart-pounding suspense. Warning: the last fourth of the book will be a compulsive read; no way you are going to put the book down so plan accordingly!
I highly recommend it for a irresistible summer thriller read.
It’s a thriller about two escaped cons attempting to travel through the Adirondack Mountains to Canada. What’s interesting is that this just happened in June 2015 when two convicts escaped the Clinton County Correctional Facility in the Adirondack Mountains. In this novel, the escaped cons do far more damage and destruction.
The cons stop at a family’s isolated home to get supplies for their trek. What Milchman does well is write a psychopath into life. In alternating chapters, she writes what’s occurring in real time and how the making of the psychopath occurred. The psychopath’s mother, Barbara, was far too unrealistic (to me) which distracted from the otherwise heart-pounding suspense. Warning: the last fourth of the book will be a compulsive read; no way you are going to put the book down so plan accordingly!
I highly recommend it for a irresistible summer thriller read.
August 2, 2015
Had this not had the description of a psychological thriller, I would have mistaken this for a satire on the absurdness and stupidity of people in a horrid situation. If I could give this a negative rating, I would.
What a joke. This whole book takes place during a snowstorm in the span of a few hours.
You have two men that break into your home, one is gargantuan (the description was too unbelievable) and the other muscular, but there is something about him, in his eyes, that make him attractive? They smash furniture, and beat her husband Ben, but Sandy is concerned about her wood floors?
The house, a castle by everyone else's standards, big as a football field, on the first floor, is completely soundproof. Ivy, the daughter, doesn't hear the intruders break down the door, but hears her mother call (not YELL) up the stairs? In this huge home, they have the washer and dryer in the basement? Ivy, at one point, goes in her parent's bedroom. It is so black, she has to feel her way around, but when she finds her mother's purse, and takes out the keys, she can see the picture her mother has on the keychain? Ivy also sneaks into her room, she is wearing a thin shirt. Her plan is to escape, but does she grab a jacket? No!!! She checks her computer! A boy shows up at the door, in a snowstorm, his gloved hands in his parka jacket? Then, takes off the jacket and leaves? The whole snowstorm was a fiasco too. FYI. I have been through many a winters, and when you have a snowstorm, then if it gets warm enough, and the snow turns to sleet? It freezes on top of the snow. The snow does NOT fluff when you step on it. There is a hard crust on the snow.
But despite the horrific circumstances, Ivy, the ever smart mouth teenager, is mouthy, sassy, and doesn't listen to the intruders, who by the way, are aiming a gun at her? The pièce de résistance is when a bloodied stranger shows up at your door, passes out, that instead of calling 911, you call the sheriff?
This story was laughable, and it was one of the WORST psychological thrillers I have ever read. A misnomer for sure. Totally absurd.
And the reason I finished it? Because it was so off the wall, that I didn't think the story could get worse. (But....it did.)
What a joke. This whole book takes place during a snowstorm in the span of a few hours.
You have two men that break into your home, one is gargantuan (the description was too unbelievable) and the other muscular, but there is something about him, in his eyes, that make him attractive? They smash furniture, and beat her husband Ben, but Sandy is concerned about her wood floors?
The house, a castle by everyone else's standards, big as a football field, on the first floor, is completely soundproof. Ivy, the daughter, doesn't hear the intruders break down the door, but hears her mother call (not YELL) up the stairs? In this huge home, they have the washer and dryer in the basement? Ivy, at one point, goes in her parent's bedroom. It is so black, she has to feel her way around, but when she finds her mother's purse, and takes out the keys, she can see the picture her mother has on the keychain? Ivy also sneaks into her room, she is wearing a thin shirt. Her plan is to escape, but does she grab a jacket? No!!! She checks her computer! A boy shows up at the door, in a snowstorm, his gloved hands in his parka jacket? Then, takes off the jacket and leaves? The whole snowstorm was a fiasco too. FYI. I have been through many a winters, and when you have a snowstorm, then if it gets warm enough, and the snow turns to sleet? It freezes on top of the snow. The snow does NOT fluff when you step on it. There is a hard crust on the snow.
But despite the horrific circumstances, Ivy, the ever smart mouth teenager, is mouthy, sassy, and doesn't listen to the intruders, who by the way, are aiming a gun at her? The pièce de résistance is when a bloodied stranger shows up at your door, passes out, that instead of calling 911, you call the sheriff?
This story was laughable, and it was one of the WORST psychological thrillers I have ever read. A misnomer for sure. Totally absurd.
And the reason I finished it? Because it was so off the wall, that I didn't think the story could get worse. (But....it did.)
October 14, 2015
2 1/2 stars
I have read a few books this year that I felt would make better movies than books, and I am adding As Night Falls to this relatively short list.
Sandy is shocked when her teenage daughter Ivy accuses her of lying, and lying all the time.
She has always been truthful with Ivy. No little white lies, no half truths, not even to spare her feelings.
But when you are living a lie, and have lived that lie for over half your life, where does the lie stop and reality begin?
Sandy and Ben live with daughter ivy in an isolated wilderness area, ideal for Ben's "live a little dangerously" business venture.
But the isolation that when their home is invaded by escaped convicts Nick and Harlan during a severe snow storm, they only have themselves and their aged dog Mackie to rely on.
This book is billed as a psychological thriller, but in all honesty for 85% of the read I found it rather ho-hum and predictable. The other 15% is thrilling, but I still would not class it as a psychological thriller unless the fact that Sandy is a therapist influences the classification.
As Night Falls is certainly action packed, but in the main I did not feel the suspense and excitement I should have felt. The fact that I put this book down and did not pick it up again for two days speaks volumes for me. It all felt a little forced, a little contrived, and for me it simply didn't work.
But as I said in my opening remarks, I think As Night Falls would make a very successful movie.
I have read a few books this year that I felt would make better movies than books, and I am adding As Night Falls to this relatively short list.
Sandy is shocked when her teenage daughter Ivy accuses her of lying, and lying all the time.
She has always been truthful with Ivy. No little white lies, no half truths, not even to spare her feelings.
But when you are living a lie, and have lived that lie for over half your life, where does the lie stop and reality begin?
Sandy and Ben live with daughter ivy in an isolated wilderness area, ideal for Ben's "live a little dangerously" business venture.
But the isolation that when their home is invaded by escaped convicts Nick and Harlan during a severe snow storm, they only have themselves and their aged dog Mackie to rely on.
This book is billed as a psychological thriller, but in all honesty for 85% of the read I found it rather ho-hum and predictable. The other 15% is thrilling, but I still would not class it as a psychological thriller unless the fact that Sandy is a therapist influences the classification.
As Night Falls is certainly action packed, but in the main I did not feel the suspense and excitement I should have felt. The fact that I put this book down and did not pick it up again for two days speaks volumes for me. It all felt a little forced, a little contrived, and for me it simply didn't work.
But as I said in my opening remarks, I think As Night Falls would make a very successful movie.
April 8, 2015
REVIEW: AS NIGHT FALLS by Jenny Milchman
Another truly extraordinary novel from an author I never miss, AS NIGHT FALLS literally kept my heart in mouth and pounding overtime. I.think I put breathing on hold for the duration! Not only is this novel incredibly suspenseful, evolving from mystery into thriller; the depths of psychological insight are incredible. One would think Ms. Milchman had taken a degree in psychology, and then interned for post-graduate work studying the violent criminally insane. I will never leave an unlocked door unattended again, nor shall I forget this novel. Beyond a doubt, here is a Best of 2015.
Another truly extraordinary novel from an author I never miss, AS NIGHT FALLS literally kept my heart in mouth and pounding overtime. I.think I put breathing on hold for the duration! Not only is this novel incredibly suspenseful, evolving from mystery into thriller; the depths of psychological insight are incredible. One would think Ms. Milchman had taken a degree in psychology, and then interned for post-graduate work studying the violent criminally insane. I will never leave an unlocked door unattended again, nor shall I forget this novel. Beyond a doubt, here is a Best of 2015.
September 7, 2016
As Night Falls by Jenny Milchman
An excellent thriller of which is a home invasion in a beautiful remote house by two escape convicts from prison. The weather is blizzarding with snow which make this family of three even more isolated.
The writing is descriptive of the weather and beautiful remote house and atmosphere. The main characters are really fleshed out, so real that you felt like you knew them. Sandy her husband Ben and daughter Ivy live in a big house, that been has built and designed himself. They are having dinner when the snow begins to accumulate. Earlier that afternoon Nick and Harlan are doing roadwork, when they execute their escape.
Nick who is the brains behind this escape takes Harlan with him as Harlan is a huge man and very intimidating. You learn fast that Nick is a psychopath who bosses Harlan and uses his strength to keep everything under Nick's control when they break into Sandy and Ben's house. They quickly overtake Ben and Nick terrorizes Sandy and Ivy.
The suspense really kicks in and the things that Nick and Harlan do while Nick wields a gun threatening to kill Ivy if Sandy doesn't do whatever Nick tells her too. This story once it gets going is one that was masterly written and hard to put down once I was immersed in this psychological thriller.
Five stars for its frightening realistic plot and characters.
An excellent thriller of which is a home invasion in a beautiful remote house by two escape convicts from prison. The weather is blizzarding with snow which make this family of three even more isolated.
The writing is descriptive of the weather and beautiful remote house and atmosphere. The main characters are really fleshed out, so real that you felt like you knew them. Sandy her husband Ben and daughter Ivy live in a big house, that been has built and designed himself. They are having dinner when the snow begins to accumulate. Earlier that afternoon Nick and Harlan are doing roadwork, when they execute their escape.
Nick who is the brains behind this escape takes Harlan with him as Harlan is a huge man and very intimidating. You learn fast that Nick is a psychopath who bosses Harlan and uses his strength to keep everything under Nick's control when they break into Sandy and Ben's house. They quickly overtake Ben and Nick terrorizes Sandy and Ivy.
The suspense really kicks in and the things that Nick and Harlan do while Nick wields a gun threatening to kill Ivy if Sandy doesn't do whatever Nick tells her too. This story once it gets going is one that was masterly written and hard to put down once I was immersed in this psychological thriller.
Five stars for its frightening realistic plot and characters.
February 23, 2016
Good book. I'd read more by this author.
A family of three is held hostage by 2 escaped cons. The story goes back to when one of the convicts is a little boy. His mother never disciplines him, and she has a strange way of thinking. It makes you realize that without boundaries and discipline, children do not do well.
There's a twist half way into the story, I had no idea it was coming.
Every now and then I want a good mystery/thriller, and this fit the bill!
A family of three is held hostage by 2 escaped cons. The story goes back to when one of the convicts is a little boy. His mother never disciplines him, and she has a strange way of thinking. It makes you realize that without boundaries and discipline, children do not do well.
There's a twist half way into the story, I had no idea it was coming.
Every now and then I want a good mystery/thriller, and this fit the bill!
April 22, 2017
DNF @ 40%
I really just can't bring myself to continue.
This is my third Jenny Milchman novel and I'm pretty sure this will be my last. As with all her previous works I can see and understand what she was trying to do, but the whole thing was so terribly executed.
The characters are all so weird. Their motivations make no sense and their inner/outer struggles feel so fake.
And the writing was absolutely abominable. I swear my brain was about to start bleeding.
PRE-READING THOUGHTS:
Are we going back to Wedeskyull???
Home of the worlds most random weirdos???
I really just can't bring myself to continue.
This is my third Jenny Milchman novel and I'm pretty sure this will be my last. As with all her previous works I can see and understand what she was trying to do, but the whole thing was so terribly executed.
The characters are all so weird. Their motivations make no sense and their inner/outer struggles feel so fake.
And the writing was absolutely abominable. I swear my brain was about to start bleeding.
PRE-READING THOUGHTS:
Are we going back to Wedeskyull???
Home of the worlds most random weirdos???
July 5, 2015
I started reading As Night Falls on Sunday, June 28, 2015. Why is the date relevant? That was the day that the second escaped prisoner was caught in upstate New York, after being on the run for over 20 days. Remember, two prisoners escaped, together, from a maximum- security prison. I can see the quizzical looks, wondering why that matters. Hang on.
As Night Falls release date was June 30, 2015. Jenny Milchman had spent the last 18 months, more or less, writing, editing, and sweating over her latest novel. Again with the quizzical looks? Hang on some more.
As Night Falls takes place in upstate New York. Two of the main characters are escaped prisoners, from…cue the goosebumps, a maximum- security prison in upstate New York. Need more?
Nick, the psychopathic murderer from As Night Falls makes a beeline for(not a spoiler because it was really no surprise) his sister’s house. Part of a letter written by Richard Matt(one of the escapees) to his daughter:
“I always promised you I would see you on the outside. I’m a man of my word,” it reads, law enforcement officials told the paper(The Buffalo News).
The letter arrived three days after Matt and fellow inmate David Sweat broke out of the maximum-security prison, the sources said.
Here is where I check–got the goosebumps NOW? How are those little hairs on the back of your neck? Thought so.
As Night Falls takes place over the course of eight hours(I know this because the author told me) so there is a sense of immediacy. An on the edge of your sofa read, where time slows as pages turn rapidly. It is that pulsing feeling that led me to overlook a few small things, what I considered an unnecessary conversation or an item strategically placed. Again, that urge to find out how, or if, and when, Sandy can free herself from her murderous brother and his overly-large sidekick will keep you reading, anytime, anywhere.
Actually, my favorite parts, what I found most riveting, were those flashbacks with Nick’s mother Barbara. We the readers know what he becomes, and can see in his earliest beginnings what can go wrong when a mother holds a child up on a shiny pedestal of obsessive love. Where no one is allowed to say anything less than positive, where it’s a misunderstanding, not violence, and where the child is never, ever wrong.
Read it?
Yes.
Read it fast?
You bet.
Just remember one thing–
you can’t spin the barrel of a gun(the barrel is the long straight part that the bullet passes through and out).
As Night Falls release date was June 30, 2015. Jenny Milchman had spent the last 18 months, more or less, writing, editing, and sweating over her latest novel. Again with the quizzical looks? Hang on some more.
As Night Falls takes place in upstate New York. Two of the main characters are escaped prisoners, from…cue the goosebumps, a maximum- security prison in upstate New York. Need more?
Nick, the psychopathic murderer from As Night Falls makes a beeline for(not a spoiler because it was really no surprise) his sister’s house. Part of a letter written by Richard Matt(one of the escapees) to his daughter:
“I always promised you I would see you on the outside. I’m a man of my word,” it reads, law enforcement officials told the paper(The Buffalo News).
The letter arrived three days after Matt and fellow inmate David Sweat broke out of the maximum-security prison, the sources said.
Here is where I check–got the goosebumps NOW? How are those little hairs on the back of your neck? Thought so.
As Night Falls takes place over the course of eight hours(I know this because the author told me) so there is a sense of immediacy. An on the edge of your sofa read, where time slows as pages turn rapidly. It is that pulsing feeling that led me to overlook a few small things, what I considered an unnecessary conversation or an item strategically placed. Again, that urge to find out how, or if, and when, Sandy can free herself from her murderous brother and his overly-large sidekick will keep you reading, anytime, anywhere.
Actually, my favorite parts, what I found most riveting, were those flashbacks with Nick’s mother Barbara. We the readers know what he becomes, and can see in his earliest beginnings what can go wrong when a mother holds a child up on a shiny pedestal of obsessive love. Where no one is allowed to say anything less than positive, where it’s a misunderstanding, not violence, and where the child is never, ever wrong.
Read it?
Yes.
Read it fast?
You bet.
Just remember one thing–
you can’t spin the barrel of a gun(the barrel is the long straight part that the bullet passes through and out).
May 7, 2015
Sandy and Ben Tremont are living an idyllic life in the Adirondacks in a hilltop mansion, with their 15-year-old daughter Ivy. And yes, having a teenaged daughter is a challenge for Sandy, since they seem to be at odds more often than not.
But not everything is as wonderful as it appears. Sandy is keeping a big secret about her past, one that is about to resurrect itself and bring havoc upon them all.
Miles away, two convicts have just escaped from prison, and they have a destination in mind. They are headed for that hilltop with evil in mind. And a plan.
Will it be a plan for vengeance? Or is something more going on? Nick Muncey sees himself as a winner, and for most of his life, he got everything he wanted. He had to learn new games in prison, but now, for his escape partner, he has chosen big and simple Harlan, who listens and does what Nick wants.
When the two of them arrive at the Tremont home, it is not immediately apparent why Nick has chosen this place, but soon we are able to put together the connections.
"As Night Falls" is a suspenseful and frightening tale of one night that turns disastrous, and a past that formed the man who would bring danger into all their lives.
The story flows back and forth between the present and the 1970s and 1980s, when Barbara Muncey was raising her son Nick…and a daughter she ignored. Nick was allowed to create havoc over and over until the day that he finally ended up in prison. But his days of plotting and scheming are not over, and terror grips the Tremont family.
The characters were three-dimensional and felt very real, especially the frightening ones. Ben was the least formed character, and Ivy was somewhat stereotypical with her teenage sulkiness and whining…and then, suddenly, she became a daughter to be proud of.
To avoid spoilers, I will only say that the intensity does not slacken throughout, although there were some slow and lagging parts in the middle; perhaps the lagging was a way of intensifying the danger, but it didn’t really work that way for me. Overall, however, the story was gripping, and one that I would recommend for those who love suspense thrillers. 4.5 stars.
But not everything is as wonderful as it appears. Sandy is keeping a big secret about her past, one that is about to resurrect itself and bring havoc upon them all.
Miles away, two convicts have just escaped from prison, and they have a destination in mind. They are headed for that hilltop with evil in mind. And a plan.
Will it be a plan for vengeance? Or is something more going on? Nick Muncey sees himself as a winner, and for most of his life, he got everything he wanted. He had to learn new games in prison, but now, for his escape partner, he has chosen big and simple Harlan, who listens and does what Nick wants.
When the two of them arrive at the Tremont home, it is not immediately apparent why Nick has chosen this place, but soon we are able to put together the connections.
"As Night Falls" is a suspenseful and frightening tale of one night that turns disastrous, and a past that formed the man who would bring danger into all their lives.
The story flows back and forth between the present and the 1970s and 1980s, when Barbara Muncey was raising her son Nick…and a daughter she ignored. Nick was allowed to create havoc over and over until the day that he finally ended up in prison. But his days of plotting and scheming are not over, and terror grips the Tremont family.
The characters were three-dimensional and felt very real, especially the frightening ones. Ben was the least formed character, and Ivy was somewhat stereotypical with her teenage sulkiness and whining…and then, suddenly, she became a daughter to be proud of.
To avoid spoilers, I will only say that the intensity does not slacken throughout, although there were some slow and lagging parts in the middle; perhaps the lagging was a way of intensifying the danger, but it didn’t really work that way for me. Overall, however, the story was gripping, and one that I would recommend for those who love suspense thrillers. 4.5 stars.
September 24, 2015
Sandy, her husband Ben, and their teenage daughter Ivy are held hostage in a home invasion attack by two escaped prisoners.
If that's not a scary enough scenario, they are in an isolated house with no neighbors. And there is a strange connection between Sandy and one of the escapees, Nick.
It seemed like slow start to the story line, however, once things began moving, they moved with a lightning fast speed. Sandy has a secret that her family doesn't know, but it's about to be revealed. Nick is a psychopath and the author ensures that we know how he got to be the way he is.
While the characters were well-drawn, it's the aging dog, Mac, who stole my heart.
As a psychological thriller, the book hits the mark.
My thanks to NetGalley / Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine / Ballantine Books who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If that's not a scary enough scenario, they are in an isolated house with no neighbors. And there is a strange connection between Sandy and one of the escapees, Nick.
It seemed like slow start to the story line, however, once things began moving, they moved with a lightning fast speed. Sandy has a secret that her family doesn't know, but it's about to be revealed. Nick is a psychopath and the author ensures that we know how he got to be the way he is.
While the characters were well-drawn, it's the aging dog, Mac, who stole my heart.
As a psychological thriller, the book hits the mark.
My thanks to NetGalley / Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine / Ballantine Books who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
December 7, 2024
I really enjoyed the author’s Cover of Snow, so I was excited to read this.
It started out interesting enough, but as it moved along I started thinking maybe the subject matter just wasn’t for me.
I made it to about 55% but just didn’t want to continue, but eventually I did. With all the 4 and 5 Star reviews, I’m obviously an outlier on this one. I did see a few reviews among the great ratings that mirrored my thoughts on As Night Falls. The author is obviously talented, and even if this one wasn’t a great fit, I’d read other books by Jenny Milchman. I’m glad so many of my Goodreads buddies really enjoyed this, but as they say, no two people read the same book.
June 7, 2016
Many thanks to NetGalley and publisher for advancing me a copy of “As Night Falls” by Jenny Milchman in exchange for an honest review.
For a novel considered to be of the thriller-suspense genre, “As Night Falls.” completely failed. For one thing I was able to figure out the plot and connection between Nick and Sandra very early on. It was just too easy. If I could figure it out, I’m sure many others will as well. By the way, for two hardened criminals who are doing their best to get away and holding people captive, neither of them came across as scary, fearful, or crazed lunatics you would think they would be. They should’ve been but they weren’t. Next there was no “Wow” factor. Nothing in the beginning, middle or end blew me away. While the story moved at a decent pace, it was so very long and drawn-out. I wanted to give up at so many junctures but kept reading on hoping something interesting would take place. Instead, all I kept wishing was for it to just end.
Let me start out with what I really enjoyed about “As Night Falls.” There was only one character that really stood out for me and was written well, and that was Nick. The author shines when she takes us back into the past showing us who Nick really was, his relationship with his parents, and all his thoughts and emotions during his formative years giving us better insight to the person who became a murderer and hardened criminal. Even better, we got to know more about his mother, Barbara, the one person who adored him and only him.
While we got to know Nick really well, there wasn’t much given in terms of Gordon, Nick’s father, and his love for his daughter, Cassandra. It’s evident that he cares for his daughter, also being the primary caregiver as she’s forever ignored and dismissed by her mother, Barbara. That said, he never tells his daughter that he loves her or believes her stories. If he really loved her he would’ve taken his daughter away from Nick and her mother, both of whom were completely deranged. I don’t understand why Gordon didn’t do anything about his wife as it was quite clear how mentally unstable she was.
I found it odd that Sandra’s wife, Ben, and Nick’s cellmate, Harlan, two very strong people with presence, were completely under-developed. Ivy, Sandra’s daughter, she’s your typical rebellion teenager. That being said, her behaviour and attitude towards both her parents were unclear, and why exactly her grades were falling. When Ivy tells her mother to stop lying, I kept thinking “what is she talking about? What does she know? How did she find out?” None of it is ever made clear.
As for the heroine of the story, Sandra, strong and independent are not words I would use to describe her, especially since she always goes along with whatever decisions her husband, Ben, makes. She never wants to stir the pot. Only keep her home in perfect harmony especially since her daughter, Ivy, and her husband are always butting heads. She also never wanted to move but her husband insisted they do and again she goes ahead without complaint. For someone who did everything to forget her past, why she didn’t put up much a fight didn’t make sense as she ended up living in the same area with same people who knew her when she was a teen. And honestly, why not tell Ben the secret she’s held close to her vest. If you love each other as much as you claim, I’m quite sure he would’ve understood. If he didn’t, then he isn’t the man for you.
As for the ending, I feel completely cheated. Talk about an abrupt ending. It would’ve been nice to read how Ben and Sandra repaired their marriage, their relationship with their daughter, and how to move on from what took place.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2015
WOW!! Talk about psychological suspense!! I was on the "edge of my seat" every time I picked it up to read. Excellent story and very well written. How Jenny Milchman went from the present to the past was very helpful in understanding the background of the 2 main characters and why they were the way they were. I am so glad I was chosen to get a copy of this! I will definitely be reading more by Jenny! Well done!!
August 31, 2015
3.5
This was pretty good! I wish I would have read it in bigger chunks. I think the overall mood would have had more angst. But I really enjoyed the flashbacks to the past for the backstory of Barbara; very entertaining. I would have liked a little more character development on Ben and Ivy but it was still good. I could see this as a movie in my head :)
This was pretty good! I wish I would have read it in bigger chunks. I think the overall mood would have had more angst. But I really enjoyed the flashbacks to the past for the backstory of Barbara; very entertaining. I would have liked a little more character development on Ben and Ivy but it was still good. I could see this as a movie in my head :)
February 21, 2020
I could not read this book or get into it
November 2, 2021
3.5 rounded up
Realistic characters and good story. Sometimes it was a bit much, but enjoyed it overall.
Realistic characters and good story. Sometimes it was a bit much, but enjoyed it overall.
June 30, 2015
A special thank you to Random House- Ballantine and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jenny Milchman returns following Ruin Falls and Cover of Snow with another psychological suspense thriller AS NIGHT FALLS a prison break, a psychologist, a past, hidden family secrets, and a family home invasion, with twists and turns you do not see coming.
Sandy Tremont, has a successful career as a psychotherapist, at Wedeskyull community Hospital. She has a nice home, husband-Ben who loves the great outdoors, and not so nice teenage daughter-Ivy, and dog, Mac. When her grandfather died he left her a healthy inheritance and her husband built them a dreams home, in a remote area which offered privacy and seclusion.
Located near an old Adirondack camp, Sandy was fine with the isolation, as she worked part time; however, when she was home she could put problems to bed, and enjoy the solitude and beautiful surroundings. Ivy the teenage daughter had been engaging in the typical teens stuff lately with her usual drama.
Sandy has a dark secret. This was not her childhood name. This all changed after the age of fifteen. A secret which her family is unaware of, until the night she has to face her worst nightmare.
One snowy winter night, two escaped convicts invade their home, wanting supplies and directions to Canada. It is snowing and the intruders are trapped with Sandy and her family. The worst possible, thing happens, when Sandy recognizes Nick, the sociopath, her brother!
Of course, Ben and Ivy know nothing about her past; however, Nick is not stable and it takes all Sandy’s training to deal with the unstable personality in order to protect her own life and family.
Flashing back and forth, we learn of Nick’s childhood to adulthood, and his twenty-four years of incarceration. There hadn’t been a successful prison break since 1961, but Nick had a plan. He and Harlan had been cell mates and he slowly worked on a plan.
The suspense builds slowly as we learn about Sandy’s past, a mother, a father, a brother, why Nick was sent to prison and how the two connect for a chilling tale (with some torture, horror, and good twists). Nick is one evil guy, a psycho-nut and the mother; well you will have to read it. Even though it had some interesting parts, keeping you on the edge; however, not a cast of really likable, or strong characters.
JDCMustReadBooks
Jenny Milchman returns following Ruin Falls and Cover of Snow with another psychological suspense thriller AS NIGHT FALLS a prison break, a psychologist, a past, hidden family secrets, and a family home invasion, with twists and turns you do not see coming.
Sandy Tremont, has a successful career as a psychotherapist, at Wedeskyull community Hospital. She has a nice home, husband-Ben who loves the great outdoors, and not so nice teenage daughter-Ivy, and dog, Mac. When her grandfather died he left her a healthy inheritance and her husband built them a dreams home, in a remote area which offered privacy and seclusion.
Located near an old Adirondack camp, Sandy was fine with the isolation, as she worked part time; however, when she was home she could put problems to bed, and enjoy the solitude and beautiful surroundings. Ivy the teenage daughter had been engaging in the typical teens stuff lately with her usual drama.
Sandy has a dark secret. This was not her childhood name. This all changed after the age of fifteen. A secret which her family is unaware of, until the night she has to face her worst nightmare.
One snowy winter night, two escaped convicts invade their home, wanting supplies and directions to Canada. It is snowing and the intruders are trapped with Sandy and her family. The worst possible, thing happens, when Sandy recognizes Nick, the sociopath, her brother!
Of course, Ben and Ivy know nothing about her past; however, Nick is not stable and it takes all Sandy’s training to deal with the unstable personality in order to protect her own life and family.
Flashing back and forth, we learn of Nick’s childhood to adulthood, and his twenty-four years of incarceration. There hadn’t been a successful prison break since 1961, but Nick had a plan. He and Harlan had been cell mates and he slowly worked on a plan.
The suspense builds slowly as we learn about Sandy’s past, a mother, a father, a brother, why Nick was sent to prison and how the two connect for a chilling tale (with some torture, horror, and good twists). Nick is one evil guy, a psycho-nut and the mother; well you will have to read it. Even though it had some interesting parts, keeping you on the edge; however, not a cast of really likable, or strong characters.
JDCMustReadBooks
December 24, 2015
As Night Falls by Jenny Milchman is a tense and atmospheric thriller that will keep you turning the pages as they reveal layers upon layers of plot and hidden secrets. Milchman continues her triumphs of novels set int he snowy mountains where what is hidden by the blinding blizzard is so less dangerous than what is kept secret in the hearts of those around you.
Deep in the mountains, isolated in her beautiful home, therapist Sandy Tremont awaits the arrival of her daughter and husband. Home, as of late, has been tense with a teenage daughter but Sandy has always tried to make the best of family time. Even if it meant keeping small secrets. Something she learned to do long ago.
As the snow falls in the Adirondacks, two prisoners plan and execute their escape. Their journey takes them straight toward the Sandy and her family. Sandy, her daughter Ivy and her husband Ben have no idea the terror they are opening their door to. At first the prisoners say they are only looking for supplies to help them through the mountains and into Canada. But as the snow continues to flurry it becomes clear that there is much more at stake in this home invasion. How do the prisoner happen to choose this isolated home? Where Ben is a wilderness tracker and guide and has all the supplies they could possibly need? Why does Sandra comply so quickly with all they want and need? And why does the leader of the two escapees, the one named Nick,the one with the hardened smile, keep calling her Cassie?
What begins as a violent home invasion turns into something much more terrifying. Milchman does a terrific job of unraveling the layers of secrets and hidden past the eventually reveal the whole sordid tale behind Sandy Tremont's life. While the flashbacks may be stunted at times and disrupt the flow of the story, they do tie together Nick and Sandy and who they are. That big reveal actually comes early in the book and lacks the punch one would expect it to have. However Milchman keeps the story flowing and even picking up pace so as the reader moves along they begin to realize that perhaps that big reveal wasn't really the main plot twist to this story.
Family secrets aside, As Night Falls is a thriller. Isolated in the mountains, Ben subdued quickly, Sandy and Ivy must find a way to protect themselves from Nick and his partner. Whether through guile or force, Sandy must protect her daughter from Nick and the secrets they share. Even though she knows she cannot keep Ivy safe completely from the truth and the violence Nick and his partner bring into her home.
Another terrific novel from the author of Ruin Falls and Cover of Snow!
Deep in the mountains, isolated in her beautiful home, therapist Sandy Tremont awaits the arrival of her daughter and husband. Home, as of late, has been tense with a teenage daughter but Sandy has always tried to make the best of family time. Even if it meant keeping small secrets. Something she learned to do long ago.
As the snow falls in the Adirondacks, two prisoners plan and execute their escape. Their journey takes them straight toward the Sandy and her family. Sandy, her daughter Ivy and her husband Ben have no idea the terror they are opening their door to. At first the prisoners say they are only looking for supplies to help them through the mountains and into Canada. But as the snow continues to flurry it becomes clear that there is much more at stake in this home invasion. How do the prisoner happen to choose this isolated home? Where Ben is a wilderness tracker and guide and has all the supplies they could possibly need? Why does Sandra comply so quickly with all they want and need? And why does the leader of the two escapees, the one named Nick,the one with the hardened smile, keep calling her Cassie?
What begins as a violent home invasion turns into something much more terrifying. Milchman does a terrific job of unraveling the layers of secrets and hidden past the eventually reveal the whole sordid tale behind Sandy Tremont's life. While the flashbacks may be stunted at times and disrupt the flow of the story, they do tie together Nick and Sandy and who they are. That big reveal actually comes early in the book and lacks the punch one would expect it to have. However Milchman keeps the story flowing and even picking up pace so as the reader moves along they begin to realize that perhaps that big reveal wasn't really the main plot twist to this story.
Family secrets aside, As Night Falls is a thriller. Isolated in the mountains, Ben subdued quickly, Sandy and Ivy must find a way to protect themselves from Nick and his partner. Whether through guile or force, Sandy must protect her daughter from Nick and the secrets they share. Even though she knows she cannot keep Ivy safe completely from the truth and the violence Nick and his partner bring into her home.
Another terrific novel from the author of Ruin Falls and Cover of Snow!
June 11, 2015
AS NIGHT FALLS’ storyline unfolds surprise after surprise for readers as each scene opens like a feature film unveiling details of Milchman’s mystery. The development of the author’s main protagonist, Sandy Tremont, gives readers her backstory, uncovering events of her past that change her family forever. Milchman’s storyline has manipulation, betrayal, revenge and unforgettable changing events helping readers grasp the importance of family. The Tremont Family live on the outskirts of small Wedeskyull, New York and the author introduces readers to Sandy, her husband Ben, and their daughter Ivy, providing details of the family dynamics of the day to day issues facing the Tremonts.
The momentum of AS NIGHT FALLS picks up speed as the Tremont family is thrown into a tailspin when two surprise visitors break into their home. Milchman introduces her antagonist, Nick Muncey, giving readers his backstory. The author’s storyline quickly progresses sharing Nick’s secrets increasing the danger for the Tremonts. Readers will feel chills running up and down their spine causing them to hold their breath. The breathtaking storyline gives readers the need to read and turn pages non-stop to find out how everything is going to turn out.
Milchman’s AS NIGHT FALLS packs a great deal into one very long evening. In eight hours the author packs suspense and intrigue, and builds uncertainty for readers. The aggressive storyline shows how families deal with secrets of the past, the present, and the future. The author shares many thought provoking issues of developing family themes. Readers shadow the Tremont family members seeking balance and experience how they move forward. ASK NIGHT FALLS is a must read suspense thriller leading to an unpredictable ending. Awarding a thumbs up to Milchman’s well written story.
The momentum of AS NIGHT FALLS picks up speed as the Tremont family is thrown into a tailspin when two surprise visitors break into their home. Milchman introduces her antagonist, Nick Muncey, giving readers his backstory. The author’s storyline quickly progresses sharing Nick’s secrets increasing the danger for the Tremonts. Readers will feel chills running up and down their spine causing them to hold their breath. The breathtaking storyline gives readers the need to read and turn pages non-stop to find out how everything is going to turn out.
Milchman’s AS NIGHT FALLS packs a great deal into one very long evening. In eight hours the author packs suspense and intrigue, and builds uncertainty for readers. The aggressive storyline shows how families deal with secrets of the past, the present, and the future. The author shares many thought provoking issues of developing family themes. Readers shadow the Tremont family members seeking balance and experience how they move forward. ASK NIGHT FALLS is a must read suspense thriller leading to an unpredictable ending. Awarding a thumbs up to Milchman’s well written story.
August 7, 2016
Oh mein Gott, ich habe es geliebt und verschlungen! Leute, lest dieses Buch unbedingt :O
April 28, 2021
Tried reading this book but I found it was too much of a illness hospitals type book and I lost interest in it
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