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Missing #1
When I Wasn't Watching
Every parent’s worst nightmare…
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
For fans of Jane Shemilt and Liane Moriarty
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
For fans of Jane Shemilt and Liane Moriarty
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2014
32 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Kelly
10 books82 followersMichelle has been writing for a living since 2013 after seven years as a literacy teacher. She still teaches a creative writing course .Michelle is the author of historical romance books 'The Virgin Courtesan' 'Borgia Fever' and 'The Rake of Glendir' for Harlequin Mills and Boon and a paranormal romantic suspense series for Xcite Books beginning with 'The Lady is a Vamp'. She also writes crime, with her first contemporary thriller 'When I Wasn't Watching' published August 2014 with Harlequin Carina and reaching number one in the Kindle charts. The sequel 'Eyes Wide Open' was released in May 2015. Michelle is currently working on a cozy mystery series featuring yoga instructor Keeley Carpenter. These will be published by St Martins Press in the US and the first in the series 'Downward Facing Death' will be released in January 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 27, 2014
This was a real page turner. Eight years ago Lucy's little boy was murdered by a young teenager whilst he was playing in the garden. The Teenager has now been released under a new identity and she really wants to know where he is and what his new name is.
By chance her older son is brought back to the house by the original investigating officer after catching him trying to shoplift locally. They have a spark of attraction and a new relationship is kindled.
Another little boy goes missing and he is on that case- and they think the original lad has struck again. There is a race to find him and the relocated criminal before anything bad happens.
The relationships between Lucy and her elder son, the investigating officer and her ex husband are all fairly dramatic in the book and it is a great paced book.
I didn't see the twists and turns coming and will definately look for more by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher Carina Uk and Net Galley for the chance to read this copy.
By chance her older son is brought back to the house by the original investigating officer after catching him trying to shoplift locally. They have a spark of attraction and a new relationship is kindled.
Another little boy goes missing and he is on that case- and they think the original lad has struck again. There is a race to find him and the relocated criminal before anything bad happens.
The relationships between Lucy and her elder son, the investigating officer and her ex husband are all fairly dramatic in the book and it is a great paced book.
I didn't see the twists and turns coming and will definately look for more by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher Carina Uk and Net Galley for the chance to read this copy.
August 31, 2014
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars.
I had a real love hate relationship with this book. The majority of it was absolutely brilliant, heart wrenching, emotional and giving a portrait of loss, grief and healing, with our main character Lucy still trying to come to terms with the loss of her child when his killer is released – setting off a whole new range of emotions that threaten to tear her apart.
Things I loved: The difficult and emotional relationship Lucy has with her eldest child, who is now a teenager with all the ups and downs that brings, but with the added difficulty of his own guilty feelings about the day his brother went missing. I found this to be extremely well drawn, realistic and it absolutely tugged on my heartstrings. Generally as well the issues between Lucy and her ex husband are also intelligently written with a devastating look at how the loss of a child can affect and in this case end a marriage.
I also thought the mystery element was very well done – when another child disappears it falls to the lead officer in Jack’s case to take on the mantle of another child abduction investigation – and his thoughts, feelings and actions are for the most part shrewdly woven into the narrative to give a different voice and attitude to proceedings. A well flowing and excellent plot to be sure.
But then…sex. Oh dear me. I am aware that this is very subjective and in general I am not adverse to a darn good sex scene if it is in keeping with the rest of the novel and adds something to the characters or the plot that gives them a greater depth. But for me, in this case, it just BAM took me right out of the moment. Initially the growing attraction between Lucy and Matt (the police officer) was subtle and added to the flow, but then at seemingly to me VERY odd times they went in for a descriptively written moment of bed hopping. There was one particular instance of this that had me shaking my head – I cant say more due to spoilers but it really did grate on me personally as a reader due to what was going on around them at the time. For me, it was not required, didnt really add anything and all it did was remove me from the emotion of the tale – and it IS a very emotional story.
Back to the plus side, I like how Ms Kelly has managed to make me think about acts of vengeance, whether it is ever justified and also to give real consideration to our justice system and how, when an offender is supposedly “rehabilitated”, what the consequences are to both victim and perpertrator when he or she is released back into the community. It was an interesting sub plot if you like, how the decision is made and how wide ranging the affects of that can be – and it was definitely part of the book that engaged my brain.
Overall then, yes as I said. Love/Hate relationship for me as a reader but I would still have no hesitation recommending it to fans of mystery and psychological tales, and it certainly has not put me off reading more from this author in the future because the writing itself was great and the main basis of the story was addictively good.
Happy Reading Folks!
I had a real love hate relationship with this book. The majority of it was absolutely brilliant, heart wrenching, emotional and giving a portrait of loss, grief and healing, with our main character Lucy still trying to come to terms with the loss of her child when his killer is released – setting off a whole new range of emotions that threaten to tear her apart.
Things I loved: The difficult and emotional relationship Lucy has with her eldest child, who is now a teenager with all the ups and downs that brings, but with the added difficulty of his own guilty feelings about the day his brother went missing. I found this to be extremely well drawn, realistic and it absolutely tugged on my heartstrings. Generally as well the issues between Lucy and her ex husband are also intelligently written with a devastating look at how the loss of a child can affect and in this case end a marriage.
I also thought the mystery element was very well done – when another child disappears it falls to the lead officer in Jack’s case to take on the mantle of another child abduction investigation – and his thoughts, feelings and actions are for the most part shrewdly woven into the narrative to give a different voice and attitude to proceedings. A well flowing and excellent plot to be sure.
But then…sex. Oh dear me. I am aware that this is very subjective and in general I am not adverse to a darn good sex scene if it is in keeping with the rest of the novel and adds something to the characters or the plot that gives them a greater depth. But for me, in this case, it just BAM took me right out of the moment. Initially the growing attraction between Lucy and Matt (the police officer) was subtle and added to the flow, but then at seemingly to me VERY odd times they went in for a descriptively written moment of bed hopping. There was one particular instance of this that had me shaking my head – I cant say more due to spoilers but it really did grate on me personally as a reader due to what was going on around them at the time. For me, it was not required, didnt really add anything and all it did was remove me from the emotion of the tale – and it IS a very emotional story.
Back to the plus side, I like how Ms Kelly has managed to make me think about acts of vengeance, whether it is ever justified and also to give real consideration to our justice system and how, when an offender is supposedly “rehabilitated”, what the consequences are to both victim and perpertrator when he or she is released back into the community. It was an interesting sub plot if you like, how the decision is made and how wide ranging the affects of that can be – and it was definitely part of the book that engaged my brain.
Overall then, yes as I said. Love/Hate relationship for me as a reader but I would still have no hesitation recommending it to fans of mystery and psychological tales, and it certainly has not put me off reading more from this author in the future because the writing itself was great and the main basis of the story was addictively good.
Happy Reading Folks!
January 16, 2015
I enjoyed this book although it's not my usual read. Our main character Lucy is trying to get to grips after her life is blown apart due to the murder of her young son. Just when she is getting back to some sort of order she discovers the murder is being released from prison. This opens a whole can of worms. You may be led to believe it is a crime thriller at first, but it is more about family dynamics and how our main character copes with a brutal tragedy while trying to keep herself afloat. It took me a while to finish this book but I give it five stars.
September 30, 2014
This was a novel that I found very easy to read, yet it divided me at times as a reader between just liking it and loving it. I found the second half of the book much better and more intense (and better written) than the first and I enjoyed it a lot more.
What's the book about?
Every parent’s worst nightmare…
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself.
My Review:
Lucy has been to hell and back as a Mother, something I can't imagine in a million years. It's eight years since her young son Jack was tortured and murdered horrifically by a young teenager, a senseless killing that impacted the entire family. Lucy is now divorced from her then husband, the stress and changes that came after Jack's murder was too much to hold it together.
Now the killer of young Jack is being set free and put in a witness protection program after serving only 8 years for the murder of the boy. The whole country and the local community are up in arms, Lucy feels anger and a sense that justice has not been done. She's still not moved on really from the loss of her son.
I could not connect with Lucy as a character no matter how hard I tried, she remained out of touch and elusive. DI Matt Wilson on the other hand I thought was a really well written and likeable character, when his relationship with Lucy becomes complicated we see lots of different sides to both of these characters.
The first half of the book whilst highly readable really explored more the feelings around events and the relationship that Lucy has with Matt and with her eldest son Ricky. Ricky is damaged from the death of his young brother all those years ago and his character was really well written all through the book. Ricky is also a very well developed and tangible character, flawed and easy to connect with, he is going through so much himself.
When another child goes missing all eyes and fingers point to the recently released child killer. This is where the book really picks up pace and we have a few interesting plots intersecting together.
The book explores all sides of the human nature in it's rawness. But still, there was something that held me back from LOVING this book but I can't really put my finger on what. I think I wanted more connection with Lucy for one, and I had a like/dislike going on at times with her. I empathised with her situation but couldn't FEEL her, if that makes any sense.
The plot is really good towards the end surrounding the other missing child, the vigilante atmosphere of the town that wants blood from the recently released child killer really hikes things up a notch. At the same time relational matters are coming to a head between Lucy, her ex-husband, DI Matt and her son Ricky. Where will it all end up?
I still felt the book had a bit more to give, I did really like it don't get me wrong and recommend it as a good book to read, but I wanted something more, a wow factor, something that blew me away. All in all an enjoyable read, with a few interesting twists to keep you on your toes. A good exploration of the aftermath of violent crime on a family.
Actual Goodreads rating: 3.5
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What's the book about?
Every parent’s worst nightmare…
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself.
My Review:
Lucy has been to hell and back as a Mother, something I can't imagine in a million years. It's eight years since her young son Jack was tortured and murdered horrifically by a young teenager, a senseless killing that impacted the entire family. Lucy is now divorced from her then husband, the stress and changes that came after Jack's murder was too much to hold it together.
Now the killer of young Jack is being set free and put in a witness protection program after serving only 8 years for the murder of the boy. The whole country and the local community are up in arms, Lucy feels anger and a sense that justice has not been done. She's still not moved on really from the loss of her son.
I could not connect with Lucy as a character no matter how hard I tried, she remained out of touch and elusive. DI Matt Wilson on the other hand I thought was a really well written and likeable character, when his relationship with Lucy becomes complicated we see lots of different sides to both of these characters.
The first half of the book whilst highly readable really explored more the feelings around events and the relationship that Lucy has with Matt and with her eldest son Ricky. Ricky is damaged from the death of his young brother all those years ago and his character was really well written all through the book. Ricky is also a very well developed and tangible character, flawed and easy to connect with, he is going through so much himself.
When another child goes missing all eyes and fingers point to the recently released child killer. This is where the book really picks up pace and we have a few interesting plots intersecting together.
The book explores all sides of the human nature in it's rawness. But still, there was something that held me back from LOVING this book but I can't really put my finger on what. I think I wanted more connection with Lucy for one, and I had a like/dislike going on at times with her. I empathised with her situation but couldn't FEEL her, if that makes any sense.
The plot is really good towards the end surrounding the other missing child, the vigilante atmosphere of the town that wants blood from the recently released child killer really hikes things up a notch. At the same time relational matters are coming to a head between Lucy, her ex-husband, DI Matt and her son Ricky. Where will it all end up?
I still felt the book had a bit more to give, I did really like it don't get me wrong and recommend it as a good book to read, but I wanted something more, a wow factor, something that blew me away. All in all an enjoyable read, with a few interesting twists to keep you on your toes. A good exploration of the aftermath of violent crime on a family.
Actual Goodreads rating: 3.5
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
This wasn't too bad. The actual story was fine but the somewhat pointless sex scenes annoyed me and added nothing to the story. The book info states the publisher is a Harlequin subsidiary so that might be the reason behind the implausible sex lol
September 25, 2014
This review was originally posted on Between My Lines
What was really interesting about this book was that it dealt with the aftermath of a horrific crime. Lucy’s son was killed by a teenager in very traumatic circumstances and now the murderer is due out on parole release. It is a still crime novel as a new crime is committed but the focus is equally on the past crime and the fallout from that.
First Line of I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly:
My thoughts on When I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly:
This was such a relatable book. Obviously (and luckily) not many people will have experienced the horrors that Lucy and her family have gone through. But we have seen similar stories in the media and your mind does wander down into thinking about how you would cope if it came to your doorstep.
I thought reading about Lucy’s thoughts and feeling the weight of grief made this an emotional read. I also appreciated that this book took a wide 360 degree swing and examined the lives of all those involved in the crime including the offender and his family. It was disturbing but very, very thought-provoking.
However a theme that I haven’t ever seen covered in another book and which really made me think was how a mother who has lost a child struggles to still be seen as a woman and not just a grieving mother. There are some explicit sex scenes in the book and they felt a little out of synch with the rest of the book. But I liked the paradoxical mix of the grieving mother and the frenzied love-making as it reminds you of all the all emotions and conflicting feelings that are boiling up deep within her
The romance element to the book added some lightness and a welcome relief to some of the heavier overtones. I believed in the couple and wanted to see things work for them. Even though we just got glimpses of how ‘right’ they felt for each other, I could feel the deep pull and attraction that each of them had for the other.
The feel of the book was a mix of psychological thriller with a domestic setting and a romance book. And it feels equally balanced on both sides so I think it will appeal to fans of both genres, especially if you like your thrillers with a domestic feel. I did find the mystery easy enough to figure out. As there were other angles to the book, I didn’t overly mind this but it always a little disappointing when the suspense doesn't hold out.
Overall this was a fairly unique read and I will definitely read more by Michelle Kelly to see what else she will come up with.
Who should read When I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly?
I’d recommend this to those who like crime fiction with some romance scattered into the mix. I’d also recommend it to those who like to ponder over the moral dilemmas in books as you will find much to think about here. It would also make a good book club choice (do be aware there is some crude language though).
Thanks to NetGalley and Carina UK for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
What was really interesting about this book was that it dealt with the aftermath of a horrific crime. Lucy’s son was killed by a teenager in very traumatic circumstances and now the murderer is due out on parole release. It is a still crime novel as a new crime is committed but the focus is equally on the past crime and the fallout from that.
First Line of I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly:
"They told her over the phone.”
My thoughts on When I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly:
This was such a relatable book. Obviously (and luckily) not many people will have experienced the horrors that Lucy and her family have gone through. But we have seen similar stories in the media and your mind does wander down into thinking about how you would cope if it came to your doorstep.
I thought reading about Lucy’s thoughts and feeling the weight of grief made this an emotional read. I also appreciated that this book took a wide 360 degree swing and examined the lives of all those involved in the crime including the offender and his family. It was disturbing but very, very thought-provoking.
However a theme that I haven’t ever seen covered in another book and which really made me think was how a mother who has lost a child struggles to still be seen as a woman and not just a grieving mother. There are some explicit sex scenes in the book and they felt a little out of synch with the rest of the book. But I liked the paradoxical mix of the grieving mother and the frenzied love-making as it reminds you of all the all emotions and conflicting feelings that are boiling up deep within her
“Was she expected to be on her own forever? To spend the rest of her life locked in the prison of her grief while the whole world carried on without her?”
The romance element to the book added some lightness and a welcome relief to some of the heavier overtones. I believed in the couple and wanted to see things work for them. Even though we just got glimpses of how ‘right’ they felt for each other, I could feel the deep pull and attraction that each of them had for the other.
The feel of the book was a mix of psychological thriller with a domestic setting and a romance book. And it feels equally balanced on both sides so I think it will appeal to fans of both genres, especially if you like your thrillers with a domestic feel. I did find the mystery easy enough to figure out. As there were other angles to the book, I didn’t overly mind this but it always a little disappointing when the suspense doesn't hold out.
Overall this was a fairly unique read and I will definitely read more by Michelle Kelly to see what else she will come up with.
Who should read When I wasn’t watching by Michelle Kelly?
I’d recommend this to those who like crime fiction with some romance scattered into the mix. I’d also recommend it to those who like to ponder over the moral dilemmas in books as you will find much to think about here. It would also make a good book club choice (do be aware there is some crude language though).
Thanks to NetGalley and Carina UK for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
August 10, 2015
This was a really good story only losing one star for me because of some howlers of mistakes I spotted !! What a great shame. However, it's still a super first story, I have to say.
As others reviewers have mentioned, the cover really catches the attention. It's a very good one.
It does smack of Broken Britain quite a lot and also has parallels of course with the Jamie Bulger case. I really wasn't a fan of Lucy. I thought she was selfish and thought little of anyone but herself and how she was feeling, even eight years later. I really liked the detective, Matt and also Ricky her son, although I mostly felt extremely sorry for that lad and his lot in life. There was no bad in him, he was just lumbered with crap parents.
Now to those mistakes....big sigh inserted here. She greeted Matt as Inspector after not having seen him in 8 years and he hadn't been an Inspector then. She tells her mum she's meeting someone at a restaurant and the next page he's picking her up at home. All of a sudden Terry is mentioned as being 15 when all along he had been 14 when the crime was committed and Ricky's age kept changing as well. One minute 14, one minute 15. Bizarrely there were 3 font changes on one page. Not sure what happened there but it looked horrible. She used law system as opposed to legal system, too, which doesn't sound right at all.
It lost the odd punctuation mark like hyphens or commas and of course the obligatory e-book apostrophe errors are here, too. Though the worse transgression for me was TWICE referring to Benjamin Armstrong as Benjamin Taylor all of a sudden. That was too sloppy for me.
I'll give another by her a go for sure-she can certainly write a gripping story but she needs to invest in a good editor for her next one.
As others reviewers have mentioned, the cover really catches the attention. It's a very good one.
It does smack of Broken Britain quite a lot and also has parallels of course with the Jamie Bulger case. I really wasn't a fan of Lucy. I thought she was selfish and thought little of anyone but herself and how she was feeling, even eight years later. I really liked the detective, Matt and also Ricky her son, although I mostly felt extremely sorry for that lad and his lot in life. There was no bad in him, he was just lumbered with crap parents.
Now to those mistakes....big sigh inserted here. She greeted Matt as Inspector after not having seen him in 8 years and he hadn't been an Inspector then. She tells her mum she's meeting someone at a restaurant and the next page he's picking her up at home. All of a sudden Terry is mentioned as being 15 when all along he had been 14 when the crime was committed and Ricky's age kept changing as well. One minute 14, one minute 15. Bizarrely there were 3 font changes on one page. Not sure what happened there but it looked horrible. She used law system as opposed to legal system, too, which doesn't sound right at all.
It lost the odd punctuation mark like hyphens or commas and of course the obligatory e-book apostrophe errors are here, too. Though the worse transgression for me was TWICE referring to Benjamin Armstrong as Benjamin Taylor all of a sudden. That was too sloppy for me.
I'll give another by her a go for sure-she can certainly write a gripping story but she needs to invest in a good editor for her next one.
September 8, 2014
What a fantastic job this author did with this story. Its a real tugger at the heart strings.
We have this nightmare that every Mother dreads. You take your eye of your child for a fraction of a second and they've wandered off. But in your own back garden? She could avidly see him from every angle but as she bent down to pick up some washing he was gone.
At first she didn't worry too much, thought he may have wandered into a neighbors garden and seeing that it was a cul de sac where they lived she didn't over concern herself with cars up and down the road.
As minutes ticked by you can actually feel her panic. Your heart races right along with hers.
There is a lot I can tell you about this read but I won't. I don't think its fair to give spoilers.
But if you knew who did it, who killed your son, if you knew he was imprisoned them due for release for good behaviour and served his sentence, how would you feel?
We go through every emotion.
I understood the attraction between the DI and herself. I'm just a bit confused if it was appropriate withing the confines of this storyline. I'm sort of on the fence with that one. I understood it though. I was wondering if the author wanted to show another side to Lucy. But then again, seeing as another murder took place and the same DI was on the case it opened up a lot of raw emotions yet again.
I would recommend this book, its a great read. You won't be able to leave it alone. I had to read this in one sitting.
I received this book from Carina UK via Net galley to read and review and give an honest review
We have this nightmare that every Mother dreads. You take your eye of your child for a fraction of a second and they've wandered off. But in your own back garden? She could avidly see him from every angle but as she bent down to pick up some washing he was gone.
At first she didn't worry too much, thought he may have wandered into a neighbors garden and seeing that it was a cul de sac where they lived she didn't over concern herself with cars up and down the road.
As minutes ticked by you can actually feel her panic. Your heart races right along with hers.
There is a lot I can tell you about this read but I won't. I don't think its fair to give spoilers.
But if you knew who did it, who killed your son, if you knew he was imprisoned them due for release for good behaviour and served his sentence, how would you feel?
We go through every emotion.
I understood the attraction between the DI and herself. I'm just a bit confused if it was appropriate withing the confines of this storyline. I'm sort of on the fence with that one. I understood it though. I was wondering if the author wanted to show another side to Lucy. But then again, seeing as another murder took place and the same DI was on the case it opened up a lot of raw emotions yet again.
I would recommend this book, its a great read. You won't be able to leave it alone. I had to read this in one sitting.
I received this book from Carina UK via Net galley to read and review and give an honest review
August 10, 2014
An action-packed, complex emotional roller coaster of a read.
Not an easy book to read as a Mum, but definitely a rewarding one.
The relationships, and the emotions portrayed here are painful, honest, and beautiful.
I see a lot of Jodi Picoult comparisons online, but I think they're a bit off the mark. Kelly is way better. Why? Because there's nothing formulaic or artificial here. Maybe I've just read too many Picoult novels, but to me, there's nowhere near as much heart in them as I found in this one.
Really enjoyed it - my only issue was that it covered such huge events and topics in such a compact form - it didn't feel rushed exactly, but it did feel maybe a little constricted in places, to me at least. I would have loved a much more indulgent wordcount, but then I'm greedy. Basically it was so fab that I wanted more.
Not an easy book to read as a Mum, but definitely a rewarding one.
The relationships, and the emotions portrayed here are painful, honest, and beautiful.
I see a lot of Jodi Picoult comparisons online, but I think they're a bit off the mark. Kelly is way better. Why? Because there's nothing formulaic or artificial here. Maybe I've just read too many Picoult novels, but to me, there's nowhere near as much heart in them as I found in this one.
Really enjoyed it - my only issue was that it covered such huge events and topics in such a compact form - it didn't feel rushed exactly, but it did feel maybe a little constricted in places, to me at least. I would have loved a much more indulgent wordcount, but then I'm greedy. Basically it was so fab that I wanted more.
November 9, 2022
As a reader, I find that you often go through phases especially if you are as wide-read as I am a few years ago I loved MC novels, bullymances, and romantic comedies. These days I struggle with a lot of books and I think it was a result of reading the same thing over and over again- might not have been reading the same book but it was the same theme and a similar plot/storyline. The other thing I have found is these days compared to when I first started my blog, I am way pickier in what I read as life is too short to waste time on boring books or books I can't get into. This is where mysteries come in, as I find when I am stuck and don't know what to read. I love a good mystery to sink my teeth into and a theme I do enjoy is missing children stories. When I Wasn't Watching first starts with Lucy Wyatt receiving a phone call that will set a chain of events to occur. Eight years ago, her toddler Jack was murdered by Terry Prince. Now Eight years later, Prince is being released and given a new identity. She is beyond furious as to how can the guy who killed her baby be allowed out of prison. As a result, Lucy finds herself once again the target of newspaper articles and reporters. Lucy's oldest son Ricky isn't coping and finds himself getting in trouble which reunites his mum with the detective that was the primary on Jack's case. Mark and Lucy have sparks, but is it just because of the tragedy that united them, or is there something more? What happens though when a new child around the same age and similar to Jack goes missing in the small town? Will this case end up just like Jack's or achieve a better result? Has Prince struck again or is it a less sinister person this time? Find out all this and more in this UK thriller "When I Wasn't Watching"by Michelle Kelly.
April 15, 2018
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
What could have been a very powerful study of abduction and loss in a family, turned into a trite and predictable mystery/thriller.
Also, the editing was a bit of a mess, to be honest. Bad punctuation, poor word choices (eg. affect/effect) and other clunky sentences really made this hard to read.
I was hoping for so much more...
Paul
ARH
Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone.
Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again.
When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
What could have been a very powerful study of abduction and loss in a family, turned into a trite and predictable mystery/thriller.
Also, the editing was a bit of a mess, to be honest. Bad punctuation, poor word choices (eg. affect/effect) and other clunky sentences really made this hard to read.
I was hoping for so much more...
Paul
ARH
June 19, 2022
This book would have been way better if they spent half as much time on the actual abduction and what happened in both of those situations as they did on Lucy hooking up with the detective and the subsequent drama with her ex-husband. Like WOW I did not care about any of them at all...
2.5/5
2.5/5
August 2, 2019
Easy to read and surprisingly addictive.
March 1, 2020
EXCELLENT
March 8, 2024
Just….meh. Didnt grab me from the start. Gave up at 15%
December 9, 2014
Confession time: I read this entire novel in one sitting. It took 3 hours. Why? I was super intrigued and literally couldn't put my Kindle down. That's the definition of a good book, right? WHEN I WASN'T WATCHING by Michelle Kelly is in league with great novel WHAT KIND OF OTHER ARE YOU?. Mystery and family drama fans, listen up!
RELEASE DATE: August 2014
PUBLISHER: Harlequin Carina
DISCLAIMER: Novel was sent via NetGallery in exchange for a honest review.
SYNOPSIS: Every parent’s worst nightmare. Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone. Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again. When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
REVIEW: What a compelling family drama / murder mystery read! The premise has been done more than once, but it was such a thought provoking read that I've decided to ignore it!
Lucy's world nearly ended when her 3-year-old boy Jack was found brutally murdered. The perpetrator, Terry Prince, was a youth at the time, but Lucy was slightly comforted by the fact that he was put away for life. Eight short years later, Lucy awakens to a new nightmare: Prince has been granted parole for good behaviour. Her world, and the world of lead investigator Matt (the man who both found little Jack, and put away Prince for life) are turned upside down. A little less than a week after his release, another young boy goes missing. Overcome with grief and driven with new purpose, both Lucy and Matt are thrust into the new investigation - turns out it may hit a little closer to home than she thought ....
What a heartbreaking look at grief! One can never fully understand the loss of a child, it's unique to those who have experienced it and it's incredibly hard to translate that loss into words. Kelly does a great job at handling the task delicately and with ease. A real page turner, the stellar writing has the reader within the novel's grasp.
The novel switches points of views multiple times, from some major characters to some minor ones that truly don't need their own points of views (that was a time waster, in my opinion). It was great reading into the different perspectives of the crime: we get the emotional component from family (Lucy), the legal component from the police (Matt), and the after effects from within the community.
This novel had a few twists that I really didn't see coming. I wouldn't say it has a twist ending, but the circumstances behind the second crime really do take you by surprise. It's an ingenious way to keep the novel fresh and entertaining, in my opinion. What a page turner!
The only gripe for me? The sex scenes - slightly unnecessary to the plot, and didn't work to advance the plot forward. The novel would benefit without their inclusion.
RELEASE DATE: August 2014
PUBLISHER: Harlequin Carina
DISCLAIMER: Novel was sent via NetGallery in exchange for a honest review.
SYNOPSIS: Every parent’s worst nightmare. Eight years ago, Lucy and Ethan Randall’s little boy, Jack, was abducted and murdered by teenager Terry Prince. A moment’s distraction had ripped a family apart – and with the loss of their son came the collapse of the Randalls’ marriage. Tortured by memories, Lucy was left to battle her grief while raising her remaining son alone. Now, Jack’s killer has walked free, giving him the second chance at life that little Jack never had. Lucy’s wounds newly opened, her world is turned upside down a second time when another child goes missing – and she can’t shake the suspicion that Prince has struck again. When DI Matt Winston, the same officer who found Jack’s body, is assigned to the case, the echoes of Lucy’s past grow ever more insistent. Bound by their tragic shared experiences, Matt and Lucy grow closer – and become fixated on bringing the culprit to justice. But now history has repeated itself, answers seem even further out of reach. And for Lucy, it’s time to face her ghosts, and ask the most terrible question of all: can she ever really forgive herself?
REVIEW: What a compelling family drama / murder mystery read! The premise has been done more than once, but it was such a thought provoking read that I've decided to ignore it!
Lucy's world nearly ended when her 3-year-old boy Jack was found brutally murdered. The perpetrator, Terry Prince, was a youth at the time, but Lucy was slightly comforted by the fact that he was put away for life. Eight short years later, Lucy awakens to a new nightmare: Prince has been granted parole for good behaviour. Her world, and the world of lead investigator Matt (the man who both found little Jack, and put away Prince for life) are turned upside down. A little less than a week after his release, another young boy goes missing. Overcome with grief and driven with new purpose, both Lucy and Matt are thrust into the new investigation - turns out it may hit a little closer to home than she thought ....
What a heartbreaking look at grief! One can never fully understand the loss of a child, it's unique to those who have experienced it and it's incredibly hard to translate that loss into words. Kelly does a great job at handling the task delicately and with ease. A real page turner, the stellar writing has the reader within the novel's grasp.
The novel switches points of views multiple times, from some major characters to some minor ones that truly don't need their own points of views (that was a time waster, in my opinion). It was great reading into the different perspectives of the crime: we get the emotional component from family (Lucy), the legal component from the police (Matt), and the after effects from within the community.
This novel had a few twists that I really didn't see coming. I wouldn't say it has a twist ending, but the circumstances behind the second crime really do take you by surprise. It's an ingenious way to keep the novel fresh and entertaining, in my opinion. What a page turner!
The only gripe for me? The sex scenes - slightly unnecessary to the plot, and didn't work to advance the plot forward. The novel would benefit without their inclusion.
April 25, 2015
Eight years ago Lucy and Ethan lost their two year old toddler to a fourteen year old killer, a mere child himself. Eight years later the murderer is released with a new identity to a secret address. There is public outcry at the short sentence and feelings are running high. When, within days of the murderer's release, another toddler disappears from his garden, vigilantes are eager to mete out their own justice with devastating consequences.
Lucy and Ethan's marriage couldn't cope with the devastation and emotional turmoil left by the void of their baby's abduction and murder. Ethan turned to other women for comfort and remarried while Lucy lived on autopilot looking after her elder son Ricky. Eight years on and Ricky, reaching puberty, feels the guilt of not playing with his little brother that day and sending him to the garden and his killer instead. The mix of his guilt and teenage hormones result in his showing a lot of anger, sadness and doubt. When he is picked up by Matt for shoplifting, it comes to light that he was the officer dealing with Ricky's little brother's disappearance eight years earlier. Matt's renewed meeting with Lucy strikes an emotional chord in him and a tentative relationship begins.
Many issues and emotions are explored in this book - how the death of a child individually affects the mother, father, brother and marriage. The unfairness of it being alright for Ethan to remarry yet Lucy is pilloried by her son, mother and ex-husband for having a relationship with Matt. I've just skimmed the surface, the book has so much more depth and intensity.
This is the first book I've read by Michelle Kelly and look forward to future publications. She writes fluidly and intelligently about modern issues with good descriptions, particularly of the sex scenes ! The plot is well thought out with no loose ends and I would certainly recommend it to my friends.
Lucy and Ethan's marriage couldn't cope with the devastation and emotional turmoil left by the void of their baby's abduction and murder. Ethan turned to other women for comfort and remarried while Lucy lived on autopilot looking after her elder son Ricky. Eight years on and Ricky, reaching puberty, feels the guilt of not playing with his little brother that day and sending him to the garden and his killer instead. The mix of his guilt and teenage hormones result in his showing a lot of anger, sadness and doubt. When he is picked up by Matt for shoplifting, it comes to light that he was the officer dealing with Ricky's little brother's disappearance eight years earlier. Matt's renewed meeting with Lucy strikes an emotional chord in him and a tentative relationship begins.
Many issues and emotions are explored in this book - how the death of a child individually affects the mother, father, brother and marriage. The unfairness of it being alright for Ethan to remarry yet Lucy is pilloried by her son, mother and ex-husband for having a relationship with Matt. I've just skimmed the surface, the book has so much more depth and intensity.
This is the first book I've read by Michelle Kelly and look forward to future publications. She writes fluidly and intelligently about modern issues with good descriptions, particularly of the sex scenes ! The plot is well thought out with no loose ends and I would certainly recommend it to my friends.
January 1, 2016
Took a while to get moving, I think because it seemed to be a series, which I couldn't really care about. However, it's a stand alone story. Matt comes across a shoplifting teenager who turns out to be the brother of a boy whose disappearance and murder he investigated years earlier. This happens right around the time the killer of the little boy is released under an assumed identity, to public knowledge (that he's released, not who he is now). Matt comes home with Ricky to talk with his mother Lucy. His initial attraction to her years back comes right back to the surface, and they are drawn to each other.
Ricky is fighting his own demons and doesn't want Matt in his life. But his response to heartbreak creates a bigger problem, and forces others to relive their worst memories. Meantime, someone else gets their wires crossed, causing absolute mayhem in the community, with ultimately devastating consequences.
This book touches on some really great plotlines. However, there are some aspects that didn't completely work for me. The twist regarding mistaken identity was really well done, and highlights the need for people to be certain of their facts before considering vigilantism. However the two people involved were rarely explored, and I think it would have been very beneficial to do so in much greater depth. I would also love to have read a further summary detailing what would happen to the two instigators of the main events that unfolded at the end. The reasoning behind their behaviour was plausible, but I wonder how that may have made any difference in the courtroom.
Another reviewer said the sex scenes were unnecessary and over the top. This sort of put me off reading it too, but I did not find them to be too lurid or out of context.
Ricky is fighting his own demons and doesn't want Matt in his life. But his response to heartbreak creates a bigger problem, and forces others to relive their worst memories. Meantime, someone else gets their wires crossed, causing absolute mayhem in the community, with ultimately devastating consequences.
This book touches on some really great plotlines. However, there are some aspects that didn't completely work for me. The twist regarding mistaken identity was really well done, and highlights the need for people to be certain of their facts before considering vigilantism. However the two people involved were rarely explored, and I think it would have been very beneficial to do so in much greater depth. I would also love to have read a further summary detailing what would happen to the two instigators of the main events that unfolded at the end. The reasoning behind their behaviour was plausible, but I wonder how that may have made any difference in the courtroom.
Another reviewer said the sex scenes were unnecessary and over the top. This sort of put me off reading it too, but I did not find them to be too lurid or out of context.
August 28, 2014
I felt like this novel had something important to say - about beliefs and the way we judge others - but didn't quite get there.
The plot itself is an interesting one. A 14 year old convicted of murdering young Jack Randall is released on parole after only 8 years. Jack's family (Lucy and Ethan and brother Ricky) and investigating officer Detective Sergeant Matt Winston can't believe it. And naturally there's community outrage that the still-young man convicted of the crime has been given a new identity and released into the community. Somewhere.
And then - within days - another child goes missing. Not a coincidence surely?!
When I wasn't watching is 'almost' a great novel. Some of the characters are well developed (Ricky, for example) but others seem less convincing (Matt, in my opinion). I found mum Lucy pretty unlikeable so struggled to feel the sympathy for her I should have.
The events towards the end of the novel had the potential to really say something about vengeance, how quick we can be to judge and our inability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes, but - it didn't quite make it.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
2.5-3 stars
I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley from the publisher.
The plot itself is an interesting one. A 14 year old convicted of murdering young Jack Randall is released on parole after only 8 years. Jack's family (Lucy and Ethan and brother Ricky) and investigating officer Detective Sergeant Matt Winston can't believe it. And naturally there's community outrage that the still-young man convicted of the crime has been given a new identity and released into the community. Somewhere.
And then - within days - another child goes missing. Not a coincidence surely?!
When I wasn't watching is 'almost' a great novel. Some of the characters are well developed (Ricky, for example) but others seem less convincing (Matt, in my opinion). I found mum Lucy pretty unlikeable so struggled to feel the sympathy for her I should have.
The events towards the end of the novel had the potential to really say something about vengeance, how quick we can be to judge and our inability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes, but - it didn't quite make it.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
2.5-3 stars
I received a copy of this novel via NetGalley from the publisher.
November 12, 2014
A fascinating twist on the aftermath of a child murder & the impact of the disappearance of another child. Further complications introduced by the relationship of the murdered child's mother & the officer investigating the new kidnap. Overall a page turn that keeps the reader's interest (almost) to the end.
I had hoped early on in the story that the author was going to tackle the fact that a child who kills another child on the spur of the moment is always considered to be more heinous than an adult who inflicts continual torture over a protracted period. The author decided to dodge this aspect and utilise the accepted view of condemning such an offender to fit the storyline.
The first mystery story I have read set in my home town. Generally the descriptions are very accurate, however, as a "Coventry kid" can I respectfully point out that the so called city hall is always referred to as The Council House and that the "back lanes" are known as "entries" presumably a shortening of back entrances?
I had hoped early on in the story that the author was going to tackle the fact that a child who kills another child on the spur of the moment is always considered to be more heinous than an adult who inflicts continual torture over a protracted period. The author decided to dodge this aspect and utilise the accepted view of condemning such an offender to fit the storyline.
The first mystery story I have read set in my home town. Generally the descriptions are very accurate, however, as a "Coventry kid" can I respectfully point out that the so called city hall is always referred to as The Council House and that the "back lanes" are known as "entries" presumably a shortening of back entrances?
September 6, 2014
I received When I Wasn’t Watching from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Eight years prior Lucy’s son was murdered by a teenager. That teenager is release and given a new identity. Lucy wants to know who and where he is now. The officer who was on the case of her murdered son brings her older son home after he is caught shoplifting. Lucy has a very tough strained relationship with her eldest son. She is still trying to cope with the loss of her murdered son when the killer is released and given his new identity. Another child goes missing and Matt is the investigator. They believe it is the same person who murdered Lucy’s son eight years earlier. Lucy and Officer Matt are attracted to each other and this develops into a relationship.
The readers experiences the grief and loss associated with Lucy losing her son and how it affected her elder son’s life direction as he is dealing with the grief and guilt. This is a very emotional book. I gave it 4 stars.
Eight years prior Lucy’s son was murdered by a teenager. That teenager is release and given a new identity. Lucy wants to know who and where he is now. The officer who was on the case of her murdered son brings her older son home after he is caught shoplifting. Lucy has a very tough strained relationship with her eldest son. She is still trying to cope with the loss of her murdered son when the killer is released and given his new identity. Another child goes missing and Matt is the investigator. They believe it is the same person who murdered Lucy’s son eight years earlier. Lucy and Officer Matt are attracted to each other and this develops into a relationship.
The readers experiences the grief and loss associated with Lucy losing her son and how it affected her elder son’s life direction as he is dealing with the grief and guilt. This is a very emotional book. I gave it 4 stars.
September 22, 2014
ARC provided by NetGalley:
As so often happens after a tragic family event, Lucy's life as she knows it slowly disintegrates after the brutal murder of her young son. And when she's finally beginning to put a bit of normalcy back into her life, she finds out that her son's murderer, himself not more than a child, has been released from prison. Just like that, her life is in turmoil once again as she tries to with an ex-husband, a possible new love interest, and a troubled teenage son. This is a good story, but not a great one. It had enough suspense and enough of a storyline to keep me interested but fell somewhat flat at the end.
As so often happens after a tragic family event, Lucy's life as she knows it slowly disintegrates after the brutal murder of her young son. And when she's finally beginning to put a bit of normalcy back into her life, she finds out that her son's murderer, himself not more than a child, has been released from prison. Just like that, her life is in turmoil once again as she tries to with an ex-husband, a possible new love interest, and a troubled teenage son. This is a good story, but not a great one. It had enough suspense and enough of a storyline to keep me interested but fell somewhat flat at the end.
November 6, 2014
This book has a really good story line and is well written. It is based on every parent's nightmare of a child disappearing during the few seconds we weren't watching. The main story is based on the killer being released on parole and the effect this decision had on everyone from the parents and sibling to the police officers involved in the original arrest. The book would have earned the full 5 stars BUT there are a couple of steamy sex scenes that bring nothing to the book at all it is as though Michelle decided at some point that the book wouldn't sell without erotic content so put a couple of scenes in. In my opinion this spoiled the book.
July 7, 2015
I started this book not expecting it to be my "cup of tea", but I was mistaken. Once I started I could barely put it down. It is more fiction with a bit of thriller tossed in. It deals with a family who's one son is killed by a teenager and then he is released from prison and put in witness protection and the effects it has on them as individuals.
She has another book, Eyes Wide Open, that has a couple of the characters from this book. I'm hoping to find it since it just came out in May.
She has another book, Eyes Wide Open, that has a couple of the characters from this book. I'm hoping to find it since it just came out in May.
October 27, 2014
Lucy's 3yr old son was kidnapped and murdered 8yrs ago and the story starts from when her sons killer is released from prison. A very sad read at times feeling the mothers pain still as raw so many years later,the suffering the whole family went through.
Filled with many twists and turns that even though we're kind of predictable so no mysteries for me there,I was still eager to find out for sure.
A book that as horrible as they are will have you questioning things.
Filled with many twists and turns that even though we're kind of predictable so no mysteries for me there,I was still eager to find out for sure.
A book that as horrible as they are will have you questioning things.
January 7, 2016
Reasonable premise - woman grieving after her son is abducted and murdered is devastated when the killer is released on licence, and then another child goes missing.
But the writing is bad, and I'm not sure the manuscript was proof-read. Apostrophes in the wrong places, wrong use of affect/effect, and numerous other errors in my Nook copy. Clunky language, cliché after cliché, excruciating sex scene. The plot needs a better writer.
But the writing is bad, and I'm not sure the manuscript was proof-read. Apostrophes in the wrong places, wrong use of affect/effect, and numerous other errors in my Nook copy. Clunky language, cliché after cliché, excruciating sex scene. The plot needs a better writer.
August 14, 2016
This story is about a family who’s young son was murdered by a teenager. The murderer has been in prison for years but is released for good behavior and put into a protection program. This sets off a chain of events as well as certain behavior by this family that will wrap this story around your brain and not let you go until the very last page. I will definitely be looking for more by this author!
August 14, 2016
This story is about a family who’s young son was murdered by a teenager. The murderer has been in prison for years but is released for good behavior and put into a protection program. This sets off a chain of events as well as certain behavior by this family that will wrap this story around your brain and not let you go until the very last page. I will definitely be looking for more by this author!
September 4, 2014
When I Wasn't Watching grabs the reader within the first few pages. Excellent writing by Ms Kelly as you feel you know the characters and are part of their lives. Some joy and a lot of heartbreak which goes with the subject of the book. Some edge of your seat page turning. Child murders are never pretty. Will read more by this author. I was given a copy to review.
October 14, 2014
I enjoyed this book. 8 Years after her baby was kidnapped and murdered, the convict was released on parole. 2 weeks later, another child was kidnapped. Some mystery and women's lit in this story. Wasn't sure why the hot romance was put in and it seemed a bit unrealistic but other than that, a good story.
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