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Taking on Water
When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin’s home life, he gets to know the boy’s father, Tucker, who’s a lobsterman. James is able to put his suspicions to rest, and the two families begin to form a friendship.
When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation gets her much too close to the dangerous players.
Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation gets her much too close to the dangerous players.
Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
250 pages, Paperback
First published August 18, 2015
681 people are currently reading
1565 people want to read
About the author
David Rawding
3 books55 followersDavid Rawding has a BA in English from The University of New Hampshire and an MFA in Fiction from Southern New Hampshire University. He has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize, and his short stories have been published in numerous literary journals and magazines. David spent three years as a fly-fishing guide in Alaska, worked several years at a non-profit for at-risk youth, was an online adjunct professor, and has a litany of other jobs in his wake. When he's not writing, he enjoys traveling the world with a backpack and a fly rod.
To see more connect on Facebook: facebook.com/davidrawdingauthor or on Instagram: instagram.com/davidrawdingauthor
To see more connect on Facebook: facebook.com/davidrawdingauthor or on Instagram: instagram.com/davidrawdingauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 6, 2015
James Morrow is a social worker who was abused as a child. He tries to avoid becoming like his dad by fighting the inner demons of his temper. He meets a young boy at the rec center and thinks the boy is being abused at home because he has some bruising that he says is from a bully.
He meets the boys father (Tucker)and gets invited to go out on his lobster boat, then they become friends.
James's wife Maya is a local police detective who has been investing heroin shipments in the coastal town that they live in.
I'm trying to figure out a way to tell just the basics of this book and it's escaping me. This book is a hot mess.
The writing is very choppy and incidents happen that really don't fit in with the story line.
The fact that James and Maya have an interracial marriage just seems to be harped on because it's the politically correct thing to do. I felt no connection to these characters.
Between James weird rages in his head and Maya doing the whole "baby talk" thing with him I was completely frazzled.
James seems to have every freaking accident or be in every wrong place at the right time known to man.
It wore on my damn nerves. I'm being generous with my 2 star rating. I was not a fan.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
He meets the boys father (Tucker)and gets invited to go out on his lobster boat, then they become friends.
James's wife Maya is a local police detective who has been investing heroin shipments in the coastal town that they live in.
I'm trying to figure out a way to tell just the basics of this book and it's escaping me. This book is a hot mess.
The writing is very choppy and incidents happen that really don't fit in with the story line.
The fact that James and Maya have an interracial marriage just seems to be harped on because it's the politically correct thing to do. I felt no connection to these characters.
Between James weird rages in his head and Maya doing the whole "baby talk" thing with him I was completely frazzled.
James seems to have every freaking accident or be in every wrong place at the right time known to man.
It wore on my damn nerves. I'm being generous with my 2 star rating. I was not a fan.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
September 22, 2015
I have to say, this book really took me by surprise....
Set in a small fishing town in northern New Hampshire, Maya Morrow is a detective trying to find who is responsible for the drugs being transported through her town. Her husband Jack is a social worker who struggles with demons from his past. When looking into the possibility of a child abuse situation, Jack befriends Tucker, a down on his luck lobsterman who his own dark secrets that he struggles to keep buried. The two families bond and form a quick friendship that sets the stage for how the rest of the story unfolds.
The build up is slow and steady for the first half of the book, then BAM! You are thrown onto a speeding train with no breaks for the second half... Intense!!
I found myself a bit sad at the end as I was hoping for a better outcome for some of the characters...but I suppose once you cross over to the dark side there is no going back.
An easy 4 stars from me and a new author to keep my eyes on!
My thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in a small fishing town in northern New Hampshire, Maya Morrow is a detective trying to find who is responsible for the drugs being transported through her town. Her husband Jack is a social worker who struggles with demons from his past. When looking into the possibility of a child abuse situation, Jack befriends Tucker, a down on his luck lobsterman who his own dark secrets that he struggles to keep buried. The two families bond and form a quick friendship that sets the stage for how the rest of the story unfolds.
The build up is slow and steady for the first half of the book, then BAM! You are thrown onto a speeding train with no breaks for the second half... Intense!!
I found myself a bit sad at the end as I was hoping for a better outcome for some of the characters...but I suppose once you cross over to the dark side there is no going back.
An easy 4 stars from me and a new author to keep my eyes on!
My thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2015
I hadn't heard anything about this book or author until I agreed to read it for Red Adept Publishing, and agreed to be on the tour.
Having read what the book was about it seemed I had a good chance of settling down and enjoying it.
I need to say though, its on a slow burner for me at the start and didn't start picking up and get my full attention until half way into the book.
I am not much into boats, fishermen and lobster catching, but I have to say, I did learn a lot along the way, so I guess that was a bonus.
When this book took off for me I really threw through the pages as it was then starting to get very very interesting.
James is married to Maya. James is a Social worker who used to be 'hands on' working for the abuse children protection side of things, now he is on the telephones and works mostly in the office. We learn about James past as we read along which was surprisingly heart rending due to him going back in his mind and we see how the author actually showed us readers the experience he had when young.
I really felt for James.
Maya works as a Detective for the Police force. She is strong, hard and needs to be all what she needs to be when working among her peers. Only James gets to see her "soft" side.
James gets to meet a lad named Kevin. He notices he has bruises in places and is concerned about him. But when he gets to meet Kevin's father and mother, his suspicions change as they seem a lovely couple so James relaxes. As time goes on the two couples bond and spend time together.
Maya has a big job going down, she is on the case of a drug related crime.
This story goes to an unexpected turn of events that really enthrall you. You then get to grasp all the characters involved.
The author David Rawding has really pulled some great characters out of the bag, so believable and as for the fishing? Well, let me say that I even got used to that and the lobster catching. Learnt a lot about the sea Police and the nets.
Secrets. Secrets and lies. Doe they really stayed buried? And if they did, should they? And if they didn't, do you wish they had!
I loved reading this despite the slow start and take off for me.
So my thanks to the author and Red Adept Publishing, LLC plus Net Galley for my copy.
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/davidrawding...
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Website: www.davidrawding.com
January 19, 2016
“Some of your childhood traumas may be remembered with incredible clarity, while others are so frightening or incomprehensible that your conscious mind buries the memory in your unconscious.”
----Renee Fredrickson
David Rawding, an American author, pens his new psychological thriller called Taking on Water that portrays the story of a happily married couple- a social worker and a local cop, set in a small American fishing town, who tries hard to protect the young teens from abuse and drug addiction and use, all the while trying hard to fight with their own past issues as well as present. In the process, they get to meet a lobsterman and his wife and teenage son, who then become very close friends. This is a story about friendship, betrayal, drug trafficking and child abuse.
Synopsis:
When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin’s home life, he gets to know the boy’s father, Tucker, who’s a lobsterman. James is able to put his suspicions to rest, and the two families begin to form a friendship.
When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation gets her much too close to the dangerous players.
Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
James is a social worker who helps children from abuse in the town of Newborough. His wife, Maya, is a local cop, who is fighting hard everyday to protect young teenagers from drug abuse as well as trying hard to crack the drug trafficking ring. James meet Tucker, a lobsterman, through Tucker's young teenage son, Kevin. Soon these two families develop a strong bond of friendship over fishing trips and family dinners. But when a healthy fisherman kills himself in front of James and a young teenager from James social circle dies due to drug overdose, things get ugly in this small coastal town. Maya, on the other hand, with the help of her colleagues, is trying to find how the drug is getting in to the city and who are involved behind the trafficking. Little did she knew that she was putting her foot into a dangerous territory where friends can turn their back at any time to protect their own family. Whereas each incident is shaking up James from the very core of his heart and he is fighting hard with his own trauma from childhood. Will it be the end of James and Maya? What role does Tucker and his family plays in this whole scenario?
The writing is fresh and articulate with suspense brimming from each and every page. The narrative is extremely free-flowing and engaging enough to keep the readers on their edges. The pacing of book changes from being very slow to so fast that it keeps the readers hooked on to it till the very end. There are lots of shocking and unpredictable twists and turns in the story, thus making it one hell of a thrilling roller-coaster ride filled with action, pain and lots of hallucinations.
The characters are drawn with enough realism and are very well developed, especially the character of James, who is very normal from the outside but equally disturbed from the inside because of his broken childhood and abuse. James tries hard to be a doting husband to Maya, even he is successful in it, but fights everyday with his hallucinations about his father, mother and other people who matter to him the most. Even the evil within him is portrayed with lots of pain and innocence. Maya on the other hand, is a strong character who won't stop at anything to get to the bottom of anything. Tucker, is someone, who is a loser, doesn't show much care on the outside, yet would do anything to protect his own family. Even the rest of the characters are so powerful, that some of them are bound to leave a lasting impression in the minds of the readers.
The story has so many elements- mystery, abuse, drugs and love. The love between James and Maya is depicted with so much compassion and deep emotions, more like they set an example of perfectly balanced married life, despite of their hectic job schedules. The mystery is projected with many twists and turns that makes the readers keep on anticipating and guessing until it's disclosure. The climax is drawn perfectly well and is completely justifiable with the story. The author tries to teach his readers a lesson about the effects of child abuse and drug abuse through this story with a loud and clear message.
In a nutshell, this story is quite mind-blowing, poignant, painful and even thought-provoking.
Verdict: This is one of the quite promising psychological thrillers in the world of fiction.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, David Rawding, for providing me with a copy of his book, in return for an honest review.
----Renee Fredrickson
David Rawding, an American author, pens his new psychological thriller called Taking on Water that portrays the story of a happily married couple- a social worker and a local cop, set in a small American fishing town, who tries hard to protect the young teens from abuse and drug addiction and use, all the while trying hard to fight with their own past issues as well as present. In the process, they get to meet a lobsterman and his wife and teenage son, who then become very close friends. This is a story about friendship, betrayal, drug trafficking and child abuse.
Synopsis:
When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin’s home life, he gets to know the boy’s father, Tucker, who’s a lobsterman. James is able to put his suspicions to rest, and the two families begin to form a friendship.
When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation gets her much too close to the dangerous players.
Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
James is a social worker who helps children from abuse in the town of Newborough. His wife, Maya, is a local cop, who is fighting hard everyday to protect young teenagers from drug abuse as well as trying hard to crack the drug trafficking ring. James meet Tucker, a lobsterman, through Tucker's young teenage son, Kevin. Soon these two families develop a strong bond of friendship over fishing trips and family dinners. But when a healthy fisherman kills himself in front of James and a young teenager from James social circle dies due to drug overdose, things get ugly in this small coastal town. Maya, on the other hand, with the help of her colleagues, is trying to find how the drug is getting in to the city and who are involved behind the trafficking. Little did she knew that she was putting her foot into a dangerous territory where friends can turn their back at any time to protect their own family. Whereas each incident is shaking up James from the very core of his heart and he is fighting hard with his own trauma from childhood. Will it be the end of James and Maya? What role does Tucker and his family plays in this whole scenario?
The writing is fresh and articulate with suspense brimming from each and every page. The narrative is extremely free-flowing and engaging enough to keep the readers on their edges. The pacing of book changes from being very slow to so fast that it keeps the readers hooked on to it till the very end. There are lots of shocking and unpredictable twists and turns in the story, thus making it one hell of a thrilling roller-coaster ride filled with action, pain and lots of hallucinations.
The characters are drawn with enough realism and are very well developed, especially the character of James, who is very normal from the outside but equally disturbed from the inside because of his broken childhood and abuse. James tries hard to be a doting husband to Maya, even he is successful in it, but fights everyday with his hallucinations about his father, mother and other people who matter to him the most. Even the evil within him is portrayed with lots of pain and innocence. Maya on the other hand, is a strong character who won't stop at anything to get to the bottom of anything. Tucker, is someone, who is a loser, doesn't show much care on the outside, yet would do anything to protect his own family. Even the rest of the characters are so powerful, that some of them are bound to leave a lasting impression in the minds of the readers.
The story has so many elements- mystery, abuse, drugs and love. The love between James and Maya is depicted with so much compassion and deep emotions, more like they set an example of perfectly balanced married life, despite of their hectic job schedules. The mystery is projected with many twists and turns that makes the readers keep on anticipating and guessing until it's disclosure. The climax is drawn perfectly well and is completely justifiable with the story. The author tries to teach his readers a lesson about the effects of child abuse and drug abuse through this story with a loud and clear message.
In a nutshell, this story is quite mind-blowing, poignant, painful and even thought-provoking.
Verdict: This is one of the quite promising psychological thrillers in the world of fiction.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, David Rawding, for providing me with a copy of his book, in return for an honest review.
September 10, 2015
Dark secrets and many lies abound in a small coastal town.
James Morrow is a social worker, married to Maya, a detective with the local police. When James first meets Kevin Flynn, he's highly suspicious that the teen is being abused. Meeting and socializing with Kevin's father, James feels that he was mistaken and the families begin to form a friendship.
Detective Maya Morrow is investigating drug-related deaths among the young teens and when she gets too close to the truth, there are devastating consequences.
I think the author did a bang-up job of placing her very believable characters in the fishing industry. The tension starts building shortly after the families meet and the more they become involved in each others lives, the stronger the emotions grow stronger. I found the book hard to put down.
Secrets have a way of coming to light ...... and although they say the truth will set you free ...sometimes it might have been better to hold your tongue.
Many thanks to NetGalley / Red Adept Publishing, LLC for furnishing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
James Morrow is a social worker, married to Maya, a detective with the local police. When James first meets Kevin Flynn, he's highly suspicious that the teen is being abused. Meeting and socializing with Kevin's father, James feels that he was mistaken and the families begin to form a friendship.
Detective Maya Morrow is investigating drug-related deaths among the young teens and when she gets too close to the truth, there are devastating consequences.
I think the author did a bang-up job of placing her very believable characters in the fishing industry. The tension starts building shortly after the families meet and the more they become involved in each others lives, the stronger the emotions grow stronger. I found the book hard to put down.
Secrets have a way of coming to light ...... and although they say the truth will set you free ...sometimes it might have been better to hold your tongue.
Many thanks to NetGalley / Red Adept Publishing, LLC for furnishing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2018
Excellent story! This is a psychological thriller about a small fishing town, the hidden issues in the backgrounds of many people living there and the 'new ' job on the water- carrying heroin to their town and many beyond it. We have a social worker, James, who was beaten and abused by his father, his wife Maya, a black woman police officer in a sea of white men, and several lobster men,Tucker, also abused by his Dad,and several who take a large part in the heroin trafficking. The mind games all characters go through show just how much what happens during your formative years carries through in your own mind, coloring all you see, do and feel.
The ride along with these people sees all of our emotions , as we laugh, cry and jump from pain. The story rumbles along, showing that the deep memories of our early lives color everything we do later on. The intense pain felt while struggling with Maya,as a 'friend' hits her, the struggle in Tucker's mind when all seems lost...
Take a deep breath before you open this book, settle yourself where you feel safe, then start turning the pages into a different style of life, with past abuse part of everything you do..
I received a copy of this story from Hidden Gems, who I thank for this engaging read and my ability to write my thoughts to you.
The ride along with these people sees all of our emotions , as we laugh, cry and jump from pain. The story rumbles along, showing that the deep memories of our early lives color everything we do later on. The intense pain felt while struggling with Maya,as a 'friend' hits her, the struggle in Tucker's mind when all seems lost...
Take a deep breath before you open this book, settle yourself where you feel safe, then start turning the pages into a different style of life, with past abuse part of everything you do..
I received a copy of this story from Hidden Gems, who I thank for this engaging read and my ability to write my thoughts to you.
September 10, 2015
Taking on Water totally took me by surprise! Set in a New Hampshire fishing town, David Rawding draws a deeply atmospheric picture of the connection between, and the devastating consequences of, poverty, drugs, crime, mental health and abuse.
The story follows James, a social worker, who befriends Tucker, a lobsterman.
Both men have personal demons they are struggling with. James is married to Maya who is a local police detective investigating drug trafficking. The lives of the two families become entangled resulting in tragic outcomes.
There is a slow build-up of tension and mystery as the author introduces the background and all the characters involved. The coastal setting with the fishing industry focus was really interesting and something quite different. I was impressed by how authentic the characters felt. I loved the relationship between James and Maya. I don't want to give the plot away, but there was an instance in the book where I actually shouted out loud OH NO!!! So yeah, I definitely felt connected to the characters. I read the last third of the book in one go. The action really picked up and it turned into an edge-of-your-seat page turner. The ending was absolutely brilliant and a thought provoking final twist.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
The story follows James, a social worker, who befriends Tucker, a lobsterman.
Both men have personal demons they are struggling with. James is married to Maya who is a local police detective investigating drug trafficking. The lives of the two families become entangled resulting in tragic outcomes.
There is a slow build-up of tension and mystery as the author introduces the background and all the characters involved. The coastal setting with the fishing industry focus was really interesting and something quite different. I was impressed by how authentic the characters felt. I loved the relationship between James and Maya. I don't want to give the plot away, but there was an instance in the book where I actually shouted out loud OH NO!!! So yeah, I definitely felt connected to the characters. I read the last third of the book in one go. The action really picked up and it turned into an edge-of-your-seat page turner. The ending was absolutely brilliant and a thought provoking final twist.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
May 23, 2017
I chose to read this novel because one of the protagonists is a lobsterman. Since I live in Nova Scotia, where lobster fishing is a huge industry, I thought it would be fun to read a mystery centered around this physically demanding, arduous way of making a living.
Let me introduce you to the two male protagonists in "Taking on water".
The main protagonist is James Morrow. A social worker, James works for New Hampshire Child Protective Services. He is married to Maya, one of the town's only black female police detectives. Crazy about each other, they are trying to have a baby. In his free time James volunteers at a Youth Recreation center. James comes from a dysfunctional family where his father was an abusive alcoholic. Like his father before him, James has anger management issues which he struggles daily to keep under control.
"We are the products of our memories, for better or worse. They make us into the people we are."
When James meets Kevin, a young boy with bruises at the rec center, he fears the boy may be abused, so he contrives to meet Kevin's parents. He learns that he is mistaken about the abuse, but finds a new friend in lobsterman Tucker Flynn. Tucker takes James out on his boat, and the two couples socialize.
Tucker Flynn, is a lifelong fisherman, married with a young son. (He had two sons, but the eldest one died). He inherited his lobster license and boat 'Periwinkle' from his father. Along with these, he inherited loads of debt and is in danger of losing his house. A volatile man, he is now being threatened by a fellow fisherman, his lines are being cut, and his livelihood sabotaged. When a devastating storm hits, Tucker loses thousands of dollars worth of fishing gear. He is now a desperate man.
"Lady Justice seemed to lift up her blindfold and wink at the privileged."
The novel is set in the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. Heroin is taking its toll on the small community. Maya has been involved in the arrest of one of the supposed dealers, but fears that this is just the tip of the iceberg. A man jumps to his death from the town's bridge. A teenager overdoses at the youth recreation center where James volunteers. Maya has a theory as to how the heroin is entering the town. Proving her theory may endanger everything she holds dear...
David Rawding's writing has a wonderful flow. Nothing stilted or contrived - with equal skill at dialogue and narrative. The characters were fully rendered with a mixture of attitudes, thoughts, and past memories making them very 'real' for the reader. The plot itself had a realistic feel that I appreciated and I am very anxious to read more work by this author. This is a novel about the lengths desperate men will go to when they feel they have nothing left to lose. About how avarice breeds corruption, and how corruption can undermine even the most altruistic.
For me, the ending let the novel down in one respect. Since I never include 'spoilers' in my reviews, I can say only that the personality and moral fiber of one of the main characters changed drastically from what it was throughout the rest of the novel. This change seemed hard for me to come to grips with. Also, I must warn you that if you like books where 'they all lived happily ever after', then this book is NOT for you.
You WILL enjoy it if you like crime thrillers that are well-written and have complex characters. Recommended!
Let me introduce you to the two male protagonists in "Taking on water".
The main protagonist is James Morrow. A social worker, James works for New Hampshire Child Protective Services. He is married to Maya, one of the town's only black female police detectives. Crazy about each other, they are trying to have a baby. In his free time James volunteers at a Youth Recreation center. James comes from a dysfunctional family where his father was an abusive alcoholic. Like his father before him, James has anger management issues which he struggles daily to keep under control.
"We are the products of our memories, for better or worse. They make us into the people we are."
When James meets Kevin, a young boy with bruises at the rec center, he fears the boy may be abused, so he contrives to meet Kevin's parents. He learns that he is mistaken about the abuse, but finds a new friend in lobsterman Tucker Flynn. Tucker takes James out on his boat, and the two couples socialize.
Tucker Flynn, is a lifelong fisherman, married with a young son. (He had two sons, but the eldest one died). He inherited his lobster license and boat 'Periwinkle' from his father. Along with these, he inherited loads of debt and is in danger of losing his house. A volatile man, he is now being threatened by a fellow fisherman, his lines are being cut, and his livelihood sabotaged. When a devastating storm hits, Tucker loses thousands of dollars worth of fishing gear. He is now a desperate man.
"Lady Justice seemed to lift up her blindfold and wink at the privileged."
The novel is set in the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. Heroin is taking its toll on the small community. Maya has been involved in the arrest of one of the supposed dealers, but fears that this is just the tip of the iceberg. A man jumps to his death from the town's bridge. A teenager overdoses at the youth recreation center where James volunteers. Maya has a theory as to how the heroin is entering the town. Proving her theory may endanger everything she holds dear...
David Rawding's writing has a wonderful flow. Nothing stilted or contrived - with equal skill at dialogue and narrative. The characters were fully rendered with a mixture of attitudes, thoughts, and past memories making them very 'real' for the reader. The plot itself had a realistic feel that I appreciated and I am very anxious to read more work by this author. This is a novel about the lengths desperate men will go to when they feel they have nothing left to lose. About how avarice breeds corruption, and how corruption can undermine even the most altruistic.
For me, the ending let the novel down in one respect. Since I never include 'spoilers' in my reviews, I can say only that the personality and moral fiber of one of the main characters changed drastically from what it was throughout the rest of the novel. This change seemed hard for me to come to grips with. Also, I must warn you that if you like books where 'they all lived happily ever after', then this book is NOT for you.
You WILL enjoy it if you like crime thrillers that are well-written and have complex characters. Recommended!
September 25, 2015
I found this to be a very good mystery thriller from a new author to me.
It's hard to say much about the storyline without spoilers.
James Morrow is a social worker in a small fishing town. An unlikely friendship starts with James and a local fisherman called Tucker. Both have a troubled past that we find out about through the story.
James wife, Maya, is a police detective trying to investigate drug trafficking in the town.
I found this book to be slow to start off with and then all of a sudden it changes direction and the pace quickens.
Although parts of this story just didn't click for me I found it to be an interesting read and give it four stars.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
It's hard to say much about the storyline without spoilers.
James Morrow is a social worker in a small fishing town. An unlikely friendship starts with James and a local fisherman called Tucker. Both have a troubled past that we find out about through the story.
James wife, Maya, is a police detective trying to investigate drug trafficking in the town.
I found this book to be slow to start off with and then all of a sudden it changes direction and the pace quickens.
Although parts of this story just didn't click for me I found it to be an interesting read and give it four stars.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 22, 2017
I thought this story was engaging and suspenseful, but too predictable and parts were totally unrealistic. Although the author developed these characters fairly well, I couldn't really relate to any of them.
Curt Simmons gave a satisfactory performance. He made some distinction between characters and his delivery was well paced. Some readers might enjoy this story, but unfortunately, it didn't really do it for me.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
Curt Simmons gave a satisfactory performance. He made some distinction between characters and his delivery was well paced. Some readers might enjoy this story, but unfortunately, it didn't really do it for me.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
September 17, 2015
" ...we are the products of our memories, for better or worse. They make us into the people we are. Owning and understanding the traumatic times in our lives is very important".
Memories can haunt a person. Memories can make or break a person. How one chooses to handle one's memory is how one chooses one's own path. However, no one ever talks about how it is a constant struggle to deal with memories, especially when they are traumatic. This story portrays (perfectly, if I may be so bold to say) how simple it is to give up the fight and switch paths,. A story that takes you on a harrowing spiral downward as everything that was perfect crashes, and almost burns (I would explain why the story almost burns, but that would give away a spoiler). This concept is portrayed in two very different characters (James and Tucker) that come together through a rather unlikely friendship. As this friendship develops, tough situations start to fray it. These tough situation reveal a mutual struggle in both James' and Tucker's childhood that threatens to overcome each of them throughout the plot.
I found the characters to be beautifully complex, fully developed, and incredibly captivating. I laughed, I gasped, I cried. The bittersweet ending was a wonderful way to close this emotional journey. Therefore, 5/5 stars, very well done!
Please note: a copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Memories can haunt a person. Memories can make or break a person. How one chooses to handle one's memory is how one chooses one's own path. However, no one ever talks about how it is a constant struggle to deal with memories, especially when they are traumatic. This story portrays (perfectly, if I may be so bold to say) how simple it is to give up the fight and switch paths,. A story that takes you on a harrowing spiral downward as everything that was perfect crashes, and almost burns (I would explain why the story almost burns, but that would give away a spoiler). This concept is portrayed in two very different characters (James and Tucker) that come together through a rather unlikely friendship. As this friendship develops, tough situations start to fray it. These tough situation reveal a mutual struggle in both James' and Tucker's childhood that threatens to overcome each of them throughout the plot.
I found the characters to be beautifully complex, fully developed, and incredibly captivating. I laughed, I gasped, I cried. The bittersweet ending was a wonderful way to close this emotional journey. Therefore, 5/5 stars, very well done!
Please note: a copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
September 3, 2015
This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book. The author's words paint a beautiful picture of the town, the ocean and the setting in general. He also captures the essence of small town living and the desperation felt by families living on the edge of poverty.
It took awhile for me to get into the book. The beginning was kind of slow. It had a lot of seemingly unrelated scenes that made it a bit difficult to follow as the flow was choppy. However, everything came together nicely in the second half of the book. Once the action started it moved quickly and had quite a few surprising twists and turns. I don't want to say much about it because it would ruin the book for other readers. I did however especially like the ending.
I enjoyed this book. The author's words paint a beautiful picture of the town, the ocean and the setting in general. He also captures the essence of small town living and the desperation felt by families living on the edge of poverty.
It took awhile for me to get into the book. The beginning was kind of slow. It had a lot of seemingly unrelated scenes that made it a bit difficult to follow as the flow was choppy. However, everything came together nicely in the second half of the book. Once the action started it moved quickly and had quite a few surprising twists and turns. I don't want to say much about it because it would ruin the book for other readers. I did however especially like the ending.
October 2, 2016
I just finished this book and all I can think is, "WTF?" I'm seriously angered about the mental illness angle. You don't typically just develop paranoid schizophrenia. A psychotic break would've been a bit more believable.
And the writing was disjointed and choppy. I almost stopped reading several times. There was also no character development.
And the writing was disjointed and choppy. I almost stopped reading several times. There was also no character development.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2021
This turned out to be surprisingly decent. Surprisingly, because it was an absolutely random kindle freebie find and those things are usually all over the place quality wise. Normally you’re hoping to get something like a real properly published properly written properly edited book as opposed to some bland typoed vanity project and this was very much the case here. In fact, the author is actually a Pushcart Prize nominee, among other things. Namely a serial fishmurderer, something that features heavily in the plot. Write what you know and all that.
Set in a small coastal New England town, this started off as a regular story and after a while turned (slowly at first and then fast and bloody) into a tale of revenge. Above all, it’s a character driven novel, with the main protagonist being a happily married social worker named James Morrow, a man who has just about gotten his violent rages under control, right in time to become a father with his beloved wife, who works as a cop. Always on a lookout for wrongs to write, possible abuses to sort out, James ends up befriending a local family, who like so many locals, depends on the sea to make their living and are barely getting by. James helps and helps, but it’s difficult to compete with the other kind of assistance available locally, one of a distinctly less legal nature.
And so, inadvertently and with nothing but good intentions paving the way, James and his wife find themselves involved with some seriously dangerous characters and well, yeah, there will be blood. And violence. Much violence.
So not quite a thriller, more of a crime drama. A character driven one at that, with well developed, likable characters for optimal emotional engagement. Good writing all around, both in the rendering of a small beaten down town by the sea and its various denizens. Quick well paced enjoyable read that follows a snowball to an avalanche trajectory right down to the fairly inevitable and nicely crafted ending. All in all, definitely a pretty good find.
Set in a small coastal New England town, this started off as a regular story and after a while turned (slowly at first and then fast and bloody) into a tale of revenge. Above all, it’s a character driven novel, with the main protagonist being a happily married social worker named James Morrow, a man who has just about gotten his violent rages under control, right in time to become a father with his beloved wife, who works as a cop. Always on a lookout for wrongs to write, possible abuses to sort out, James ends up befriending a local family, who like so many locals, depends on the sea to make their living and are barely getting by. James helps and helps, but it’s difficult to compete with the other kind of assistance available locally, one of a distinctly less legal nature.
And so, inadvertently and with nothing but good intentions paving the way, James and his wife find themselves involved with some seriously dangerous characters and well, yeah, there will be blood. And violence. Much violence.
So not quite a thriller, more of a crime drama. A character driven one at that, with well developed, likable characters for optimal emotional engagement. Good writing all around, both in the rendering of a small beaten down town by the sea and its various denizens. Quick well paced enjoyable read that follows a snowball to an avalanche trajectory right down to the fairly inevitable and nicely crafted ending. All in all, definitely a pretty good find.
May 22, 2020
⭐⭐⭐💫
James is a social worker who ends up befriending Tucker & Melanie through their son Kevin, as James spends his free time volunteering at the local rec center. He notices that Tucker and his family are struggling financially and tries to help them.
James' wife, Maya, is a police officer. She knows there are drugs being trafficked in her town and is determined to find out how and where they are coming in.
Meanwhile, Tucker, despite the help from James is still struggling and makes the wrong decisions which end in catastrophe.
This was a very slow burn for me, and felt it took almost 70% of the book until it started to take off. When it did though ... it was fast-paced and flew to the end. The ending was what I figured it would be although James' ailment threw me for a loop. I don't want to say so I don't ruin it for anyone else reading.
Even though it's a slow starter I would still recommend this one. This was an interesting take on drug trafficking in a small, fishing town. I do enjoy the author's writing and building of the world you are immersed in.
James is a social worker who ends up befriending Tucker & Melanie through their son Kevin, as James spends his free time volunteering at the local rec center. He notices that Tucker and his family are struggling financially and tries to help them.
James' wife, Maya, is a police officer. She knows there are drugs being trafficked in her town and is determined to find out how and where they are coming in.
Meanwhile, Tucker, despite the help from James is still struggling and makes the wrong decisions which end in catastrophe.
This was a very slow burn for me, and felt it took almost 70% of the book until it started to take off. When it did though ... it was fast-paced and flew to the end. The ending was what I figured it would be although James' ailment threw me for a loop. I don't want to say so I don't ruin it for anyone else reading.
Even though it's a slow starter I would still recommend this one. This was an interesting take on drug trafficking in a small, fishing town. I do enjoy the author's writing and building of the world you are immersed in.
September 28, 2015
In Taking on Water we follow the story of James Morrow, a social worker with an abused past, and his wife Maya, a detective with the local police department who’s investigating the sudden increase of narcotics in their small New Hampshire town. When James meets a local teen named Kevin Flynn, he initially becomes concerned that the teen is being abused at home. He decides to meet and befriend the boy’s father, a lobsterman named Tucker, but after spending some time with him James feels like he was at first mistaken and so the Morrow’s and the Flynn’s become close family friends. That is until tragedy descends upon one of the families and unfortunately that’s all I can say about the plot without giving too much away ;)
I’m always a little hesitant to start a book that surrounds a character who’s a social worker, a foster child, or a foster parent. This comes from reading far too many books where social work and foster care is portrayed not only incorrectly but also in a very negative light. I’ve worked in Social Services for over 7 years and can be extremely sensitive of this topic, and its portrayal, in both fiction and cinema. I’m so glad I put these initial feelings aside though and decided to read this book because Rawding writes with a remarkable understanding towards the issues of abuse and social work. It was at times touching and almost too hard to read because of how realistic it was portrayed, so for that alone I say bravo to Rawding! Just be warned that this subject matter could be a trigger for some.
As for the rest of the story? Wow, this was such a thrilling page turner! The story did start out a tad slow but it was also clear to me that Rawding was setting up his story so therefore a little patience was needed. This totally paid off because soon I was sucked into the story and I found it extremely hard to put down after that. The New Hampshire coastal town setting and the portrayal of the fishing industry was brilliant and fascinating. All of the characters in this story were so real and complex; especially James and Maya who were so relatable, I adored them!
As the story progresses it becomes frighteningly clear that the lives of the Morrow’s and Flynn’s are becoming far too entangled which could potentially lead to a devastating outcome. I had a few thoughts and ideas on where I thought the story could be headed but I then dismissed those ideas thinking for sure the author would in no way go there. Boy was I wrong because he absolutely did! This is not a HEA story so if that’s what you’re looking for then you better move along because you won’t find that here. What this story is though is real, honest and so devastating and thought provoking. This is one I’ll be thinking about for quite some time!
Many thanks to the publishers, Red Adapt Publishing and to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! And a huge thank you to Sage’s Blog Tours for inviting me to participate in the tour for this amazing book!
I’m always a little hesitant to start a book that surrounds a character who’s a social worker, a foster child, or a foster parent. This comes from reading far too many books where social work and foster care is portrayed not only incorrectly but also in a very negative light. I’ve worked in Social Services for over 7 years and can be extremely sensitive of this topic, and its portrayal, in both fiction and cinema. I’m so glad I put these initial feelings aside though and decided to read this book because Rawding writes with a remarkable understanding towards the issues of abuse and social work. It was at times touching and almost too hard to read because of how realistic it was portrayed, so for that alone I say bravo to Rawding! Just be warned that this subject matter could be a trigger for some.
As for the rest of the story? Wow, this was such a thrilling page turner! The story did start out a tad slow but it was also clear to me that Rawding was setting up his story so therefore a little patience was needed. This totally paid off because soon I was sucked into the story and I found it extremely hard to put down after that. The New Hampshire coastal town setting and the portrayal of the fishing industry was brilliant and fascinating. All of the characters in this story were so real and complex; especially James and Maya who were so relatable, I adored them!
As the story progresses it becomes frighteningly clear that the lives of the Morrow’s and Flynn’s are becoming far too entangled which could potentially lead to a devastating outcome. I had a few thoughts and ideas on where I thought the story could be headed but I then dismissed those ideas thinking for sure the author would in no way go there. Boy was I wrong because he absolutely did! This is not a HEA story so if that’s what you’re looking for then you better move along because you won’t find that here. What this story is though is real, honest and so devastating and thought provoking. This is one I’ll be thinking about for quite some time!
Many thanks to the publishers, Red Adapt Publishing and to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! And a huge thank you to Sage’s Blog Tours for inviting me to participate in the tour for this amazing book!
August 14, 2016
"She suspected that the drugs had gone underground in response to recent media attention. Her mind turned to the boy who had helped Derek Fanning overdose at the rec center. The red headed juvenile had turned out to be the only son of a weathly local businessmen: Fred Hanson, the type of man who rubbed elbows with the town councilmen. Hanson had delivered his son to the station to turn himself in but not without a lawyer strapped to his side. "......
Tucker Flynn is a lobster-man, trying to make a living up against men who don't play fair. Life is a little rough for the Flynn family, wife Melanie and son Kevin.
James Morrow is a local social worker. He suspects Tucker's son Kevin is being abused. Starting up a friendship with Tucker, trying to get some insight into why he saw Kevin with so many bruises.
Taking place in a small town on the coast of New Hampshire, fishing isn't the only business going on. There are drugs running rampant as well. James is seeing more than his fair share of the dark side of people.
James wife, Maya, is a cop. Maya is also has a front seat to the drugs and the wake of their destruction in her daily life. Together though, James and Maya are a great couple. There is a lot of emotion, love, friendship, and a genuine want to help others weaved throughout this book. Their relationship is what made me really love this part of the story.
From the very beginning the story line was engaging. Immediately drew me in. Characters were well written. Is Kevin being abused or is there more going on then first meets the eye? After the two couples become friendly though thoughts of abuse are deflected. Maya wonders what if the drugs are coming by water into town? Perhaps Tucker and his family are in danger.
Sad moments of drugs, death and abuse. Realistically told. This town has underlying secrets that can't be kept in the dark forever. Together maybe these people can make a change in a positive direction. Some shocking twists and dark turns. You won't be able to put it down. What would you do for money?
Thank you David Rawding.
Tucker Flynn is a lobster-man, trying to make a living up against men who don't play fair. Life is a little rough for the Flynn family, wife Melanie and son Kevin.
James Morrow is a local social worker. He suspects Tucker's son Kevin is being abused. Starting up a friendship with Tucker, trying to get some insight into why he saw Kevin with so many bruises.
Taking place in a small town on the coast of New Hampshire, fishing isn't the only business going on. There are drugs running rampant as well. James is seeing more than his fair share of the dark side of people.
James wife, Maya, is a cop. Maya is also has a front seat to the drugs and the wake of their destruction in her daily life. Together though, James and Maya are a great couple. There is a lot of emotion, love, friendship, and a genuine want to help others weaved throughout this book. Their relationship is what made me really love this part of the story.
From the very beginning the story line was engaging. Immediately drew me in. Characters were well written. Is Kevin being abused or is there more going on then first meets the eye? After the two couples become friendly though thoughts of abuse are deflected. Maya wonders what if the drugs are coming by water into town? Perhaps Tucker and his family are in danger.
Sad moments of drugs, death and abuse. Realistically told. This town has underlying secrets that can't be kept in the dark forever. Together maybe these people can make a change in a positive direction. Some shocking twists and dark turns. You won't be able to put it down. What would you do for money?
Thank you David Rawding.
February 24, 2016
In the first chapter, I thought the book was written with the main story line regarding a social worker, second chapter, I thought the story line was regarding a female cop, married to the social worker. By the third chapter-fishermen??? The main reason I didn't give it four stars-he kills off one of the main characters, the most redeeming one in the book. I liked the premise of the book and wish that it had been a trilogy. (The author attempted to cover too much in one book.)
(I was given a copy of this book by the author for a review.)
(I was given a copy of this book by the author for a review.)
January 6, 2017
Taking on Water
When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin's home life, he gets to know the boy;s father, Tucker, who's a lobsterman. James is able to put his suspicions to rest, and the two families begin to form a friendship. When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation get her much too close to the dangerous players. Both the Morrows and The Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
Kelly Smith Reviews: "A harrowing tale of abuse and addiction told in a beautiful way that will touch your heart. This book was very emotional, very driven..."
Brian's Book Blog: "Rawding has an incredible knack for knowing what the reader wants to happen next and doesn't leave them hanging for long. I hope that he writes another story like this - and I hope he writes it soon because I loved this book."
What did I like? The first thing I like is the lead character, wow what a complex man and the problems that this man has had in his life. I loved his devotion to his wife and in helping others. Even with the, well there is no other way to describe it.... Shitty life that he had in his childhood he still went on to try to help others. Falling in love with Maya was his lifeline to existence.
What are you going to like? This is a story that you are not going to forget easily, it is told in a very brutally honest way that will grip your heart on page one and will not let go to the very last page. It's an in depth look into the mind of a very abused and disturbed man that is trying his very best to just hang on and navigate life. Along the way, he finds a very beautiful woman and a desire in him to stop what happen to him. You will find it open and heart tearing, deeply disturbing but yet in a way that will make you want to read it all and find out how it ends. You can't believe the mess that people make of their lives even though they should know better all in the name of love.
I received this from the author for my honest review and everything here is my own opinion and review of this book.
I loved this book and could hardly put it down and I certainly hope that David will go on and write more if not a continue of this one but anything he writes I am sure to be reading it. He has a wonderful way to look at the worst and put it in writing in a way that will capture the heart of the reader but will not leave them hanging. His writing will take him far in the world of psychological thrillers.
When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin's home life, he gets to know the boy;s father, Tucker, who's a lobsterman. James is able to put his suspicions to rest, and the two families begin to form a friendship. When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough. But her investigation get her much too close to the dangerous players. Both the Morrows and The Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
Kelly Smith Reviews: "A harrowing tale of abuse and addiction told in a beautiful way that will touch your heart. This book was very emotional, very driven..."
Brian's Book Blog: "Rawding has an incredible knack for knowing what the reader wants to happen next and doesn't leave them hanging for long. I hope that he writes another story like this - and I hope he writes it soon because I loved this book."
What did I like? The first thing I like is the lead character, wow what a complex man and the problems that this man has had in his life. I loved his devotion to his wife and in helping others. Even with the, well there is no other way to describe it.... Shitty life that he had in his childhood he still went on to try to help others. Falling in love with Maya was his lifeline to existence.
What are you going to like? This is a story that you are not going to forget easily, it is told in a very brutally honest way that will grip your heart on page one and will not let go to the very last page. It's an in depth look into the mind of a very abused and disturbed man that is trying his very best to just hang on and navigate life. Along the way, he finds a very beautiful woman and a desire in him to stop what happen to him. You will find it open and heart tearing, deeply disturbing but yet in a way that will make you want to read it all and find out how it ends. You can't believe the mess that people make of their lives even though they should know better all in the name of love.
I received this from the author for my honest review and everything here is my own opinion and review of this book.
I loved this book and could hardly put it down and I certainly hope that David will go on and write more if not a continue of this one but anything he writes I am sure to be reading it. He has a wonderful way to look at the worst and put it in writing in a way that will capture the heart of the reader but will not leave them hanging. His writing will take him far in the world of psychological thrillers.
April 8, 2018
Another reviewer has referred to this book as a "slow burn" and I would have to agree. The first few chapters are slow and seem almost disconnected/disjointed even. But, given the short length of the book, you know it will all tie together.
James and Maya are a couple living in New Hampshire: James is a social worker who now processes the paperwork in the office as opposed to working in the field: working in the field and seeing the cavalcade of abusive and irresponsible parents and people got to him, but he still feels like he makes a difference. Maya is a police detective working on drug dealing cases.
Tucker is a struggling lobsterman, with a house being foreclosed upon, and competing lobstermen sabotaging his business. His son Kevin attends the after-school rec center where James volunteers. After James sees a lot of bruises on Kevin, his social work background and paranoia informs a supposition that Kevin is being abused. This begins an unexpected friendship between James and Tucker that ends up taking on tragic consequences.
Once Tucker and James have established a friendship, this is where the action of the story really begins, and where the smoke of the slow-burning story begins to take hold. (Were we to follow this metaphor all the way, the beginning of the story is where the author is banging the rocks together to create a spark, or the rubbing of sticks together to create smoke.)
If I continue telling the plot, I’ll reveal too much of the story. However, as I read it, I realized it read like one of the better episodes of Law & Order. It's genre fiction in a literary fiction wrapper. Where most crime fiction is from the authority figure/detective or from the perpetrator's POV, this is from the supporting cast's POV. The supporting players have become the leads. And, like the best Law & Order episodes, you realize you're watching a genre fiction show, with somewhat of a formula, but there's still enough ambiguity and good storytelling to keep you interested. And, like the best episodes, no one ends up unscathed; everyone’s morally implicated.
I feel in thirty years or so, when we look back at Rawding's career, we'll look at Taking on Water as the beginning of an impressive mountain climb, but not its summit.
James and Maya are a couple living in New Hampshire: James is a social worker who now processes the paperwork in the office as opposed to working in the field: working in the field and seeing the cavalcade of abusive and irresponsible parents and people got to him, but he still feels like he makes a difference. Maya is a police detective working on drug dealing cases.
Tucker is a struggling lobsterman, with a house being foreclosed upon, and competing lobstermen sabotaging his business. His son Kevin attends the after-school rec center where James volunteers. After James sees a lot of bruises on Kevin, his social work background and paranoia informs a supposition that Kevin is being abused. This begins an unexpected friendship between James and Tucker that ends up taking on tragic consequences.
Once Tucker and James have established a friendship, this is where the action of the story really begins, and where the smoke of the slow-burning story begins to take hold. (Were we to follow this metaphor all the way, the beginning of the story is where the author is banging the rocks together to create a spark, or the rubbing of sticks together to create smoke.)
If I continue telling the plot, I’ll reveal too much of the story. However, as I read it, I realized it read like one of the better episodes of Law & Order. It's genre fiction in a literary fiction wrapper. Where most crime fiction is from the authority figure/detective or from the perpetrator's POV, this is from the supporting cast's POV. The supporting players have become the leads. And, like the best Law & Order episodes, you realize you're watching a genre fiction show, with somewhat of a formula, but there's still enough ambiguity and good storytelling to keep you interested. And, like the best episodes, no one ends up unscathed; everyone’s morally implicated.
I feel in thirty years or so, when we look back at Rawding's career, we'll look at Taking on Water as the beginning of an impressive mountain climb, but not its summit.
December 31, 2018
Book Name: Taking On Water
Author: David Rawding
Genre: Thrill, mystery
Publisher: Red Adept
.
Plot: When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin’s home life, he gets to know the boy’s father, Tucker, who’s a lobsterman.When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough.Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
.
My Opinion: I had an eye on this book since long because of it's genre & the blurb. The book was just amazing & totally unique & different. Life isn't easy, we have to face, we have to struggle & we have to find a way ourselves when things aren't happening easily. That was just one of the moral that I learnt from it but there are definitely much more. James, Kevin & Maya all of the three were the most amazing characters which were the heart of the book. The author took the reader to every possible feeling & emotion! He amalgamated various forms of a human mind ro bring out what he has written or presented in the book. Taking about the cover- It's good pretty cool kinda but I wish it would be more attractive just like the blurb. I just loved the book.
.
Pros: The plot was very unpredictable which I loved too much in book because now a days books with unpredictable plot are so rare! The writing way was unique, like this book entertained me for five hours including break, so it was a soft & a easy read. The plot flowed really well & sort of loved immersing into the storyline. I am not sure about other's view about it but I think it was amazing for me.
Cons: The writing should be a bit polished, because the author has potential! He is good at creating curiosity so definitely he need to work more on writing style. The book was also, not too big so it can suit to anyone's taste.
.
Rating: 4🌟
Author: David Rawding
Genre: Thrill, mystery
Publisher: Red Adept
.
Plot: When James Morrow, a social worker, first meets Kevin Flynn, he suspects the teen is being abused. To learn more about Kevin’s home life, he gets to know the boy’s father, Tucker, who’s a lobsterman.When a kid at the local recreation center dies of an overdose, Detective Maya Morrow adds the case to the long list related to the drug problem plaguing the small New Hampshire coastal town of Newborough.Both the Morrows and the Flynns are holding dark secrets, and when their lives collide, tragedy is inevitable.
.
My Opinion: I had an eye on this book since long because of it's genre & the blurb. The book was just amazing & totally unique & different. Life isn't easy, we have to face, we have to struggle & we have to find a way ourselves when things aren't happening easily. That was just one of the moral that I learnt from it but there are definitely much more. James, Kevin & Maya all of the three were the most amazing characters which were the heart of the book. The author took the reader to every possible feeling & emotion! He amalgamated various forms of a human mind ro bring out what he has written or presented in the book. Taking about the cover- It's good pretty cool kinda but I wish it would be more attractive just like the blurb. I just loved the book.
.
Pros: The plot was very unpredictable which I loved too much in book because now a days books with unpredictable plot are so rare! The writing way was unique, like this book entertained me for five hours including break, so it was a soft & a easy read. The plot flowed really well & sort of loved immersing into the storyline. I am not sure about other's view about it but I think it was amazing for me.
Cons: The writing should be a bit polished, because the author has potential! He is good at creating curiosity so definitely he need to work more on writing style. The book was also, not too big so it can suit to anyone's taste.
.
Rating: 4🌟
October 23, 2017
Read this review and more on my blog at [Roxie Writes].
‘Taking on Water’ by David Rawding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Finished on October 21, 2017
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
$5.99 on Kindle | $12.99 in Paperback | $13.97 on Audible
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Social worker James Morrow meets Kevin Flynn at the local rec center and suspects he’s being abused. To get to know more, he spends time with the family and forms a relationship with Kevin’s father, Tucker, a lobsterman. James soon puts his suspicions to rest and a friendship forms between the two families.
James’ wife, Maya, is a detective for local law enforcement, and she is involved in the growing drug problem that plagues their small New Hampshire town. Her investigation quickly puts her in a terribly dangerous position.
The relationship between the Morrows and the Flynns and the secrets they are keeping will have tragic consequences for them both.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a powerful and sad story about two men who came from brutal homes, who only wanted to escape them in adulthood, but didn’t know how to let go of the anger that gripped them through their pasts. They tried to make good decisions, to have happy and normal lives, but their tempers and their pasts continued to haunt them until it destroyed them both.
This book starts off strong, but about three-fourths of the way through, it lost steam a little bit. Once James starts to unravel, so does the story. The pacing isn’t done as well, in my opinion. It felt rushed, and while I get why he made the decisions he does, they felt overly dramatic to me.
That being said, I still enjoyed this book. It’s an easy-to-read thriller with a decent amount of suspense. The relationship between Maya and James is tender and sweet, and really the highlight of the story, I think.
‘Taking on Water’ by David Rawding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Finished on October 21, 2017
GIVEN A FREE COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
$5.99 on Kindle | $12.99 in Paperback | $13.97 on Audible
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Social worker James Morrow meets Kevin Flynn at the local rec center and suspects he’s being abused. To get to know more, he spends time with the family and forms a relationship with Kevin’s father, Tucker, a lobsterman. James soon puts his suspicions to rest and a friendship forms between the two families.
James’ wife, Maya, is a detective for local law enforcement, and she is involved in the growing drug problem that plagues their small New Hampshire town. Her investigation quickly puts her in a terribly dangerous position.
The relationship between the Morrows and the Flynns and the secrets they are keeping will have tragic consequences for them both.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a powerful and sad story about two men who came from brutal homes, who only wanted to escape them in adulthood, but didn’t know how to let go of the anger that gripped them through their pasts. They tried to make good decisions, to have happy and normal lives, but their tempers and their pasts continued to haunt them until it destroyed them both.
This book starts off strong, but about three-fourths of the way through, it lost steam a little bit. Once James starts to unravel, so does the story. The pacing isn’t done as well, in my opinion. It felt rushed, and while I get why he made the decisions he does, they felt overly dramatic to me.
That being said, I still enjoyed this book. It’s an easy-to-read thriller with a decent amount of suspense. The relationship between Maya and James is tender and sweet, and really the highlight of the story, I think.
July 11, 2021
A new author to me and I really enjoyed this. He created some really likeable characters you cheered on in your head. I wasn't too sure I liked the ending or not but it's his story, it's his choice how he leaves it !! Maya especially was my favourite character. She is a smashing creation.
I thought I was going to get a little too bogged down with all the fishing stuff but some of it was pretty interesting, especially reading of the notched lobsters and that the breeding females are returned to the sea.
I loved the dedication at the beginning, especially that final remark to his parents. I also enjoyed his analogies about liars and justice. I was pleased to see the references to Smuttynose Island, too, as it's long been a fascinating story to me, plus I LOVE the name !!
AND there were hardly any mistakes, either, making it even more pleasurable. He spelt discernible wrong once (as discernable) but got it right the other time he used it, so one of his editor folk ought to have spotted that one, and he did that American thing of writing kneeled or grinded as opposed to knelt or ground. Then one sentence lost a word, "What the hell are doing" ? So that's pretty good going these days.
I looked up his other books but didn't fancy the only other one I found so will need to remember to keep an eye out for this author in the future.
I thought I was going to get a little too bogged down with all the fishing stuff but some of it was pretty interesting, especially reading of the notched lobsters and that the breeding females are returned to the sea.
I loved the dedication at the beginning, especially that final remark to his parents. I also enjoyed his analogies about liars and justice. I was pleased to see the references to Smuttynose Island, too, as it's long been a fascinating story to me, plus I LOVE the name !!
AND there were hardly any mistakes, either, making it even more pleasurable. He spelt discernible wrong once (as discernable) but got it right the other time he used it, so one of his editor folk ought to have spotted that one, and he did that American thing of writing kneeled or grinded as opposed to knelt or ground. Then one sentence lost a word, "What the hell are doing" ? So that's pretty good going these days.
I looked up his other books but didn't fancy the only other one I found so will need to remember to keep an eye out for this author in the future.
May 20, 2017
Taking on Water was a thrilling story about the love between a married couple and the friendship of the husband to a lobster fisherman. It revolves around drug trafficking and the police working to take down the organization. In addition to some police corruption and families struggling to make their lives better.
It had a great mixture of mystery, romance, murder, and action. It was well written with strong characters and incredible twist and turns. It was easy to read and follow with a unique and intriguing plot. There is a lot of action and suspense to grab your attention from beginning to end. The references made of the social work and police seemed to be spot on. Additionally the realistic characters assisted to create a believable story.
Curt Simmons does a great job on the narration. He brought his own unique and noticeably different voice that is immediately recognizable for each character.
This was the first book that I have read and listened to by David Rawding and will not be my last. I was not disappointed at all. I recommend David Rawding to anyone that wants to read a great suspense that will keep you entertained all the way through.
It had a great mixture of mystery, romance, murder, and action. It was well written with strong characters and incredible twist and turns. It was easy to read and follow with a unique and intriguing plot. There is a lot of action and suspense to grab your attention from beginning to end. The references made of the social work and police seemed to be spot on. Additionally the realistic characters assisted to create a believable story.
Curt Simmons does a great job on the narration. He brought his own unique and noticeably different voice that is immediately recognizable for each character.
This was the first book that I have read and listened to by David Rawding and will not be my last. I was not disappointed at all. I recommend David Rawding to anyone that wants to read a great suspense that will keep you entertained all the way through.
February 6, 2021
I’m a fan of North Woods Law, a TV series set in New Hampshire. The game wardens are the good guys, of course, and I knew I was going to be furious when the first NH game warden I saw in this book was one of the bad guys. I really wanted to like Taking on Water, set in the New Hampshire coast, a place I’ve visited all my life. There’s Tucker, a lobsterman who is barely making it these days. There’s James, a man who works at Child Protective Services, and he’s noticing the local teens are using drugs. There’s Maya, James’ wife, a police officer. Why is heroin getting into the New Hampshire coastline? All the possible ideas could have worked.
But what I wanted was a crime novel, a police procedural, and what I got was a boatload (literally) of misery and loss.
At first, I thought it was going to be worth reading. There was a section (Chapter 18) where James and a newly pregnant Maya are at the New England Aquarium in Boston on August 10, 2014, a supermoon- the day my first grandchild was born, and I was delighted. Unfortunately, it was the beginning of the end, and the rest of the book was horrible.
I won’t read any more of David Rawding’s books again.
But what I wanted was a crime novel, a police procedural, and what I got was a boatload (literally) of misery and loss.
At first, I thought it was going to be worth reading. There was a section (Chapter 18) where James and a newly pregnant Maya are at the New England Aquarium in Boston on August 10, 2014, a supermoon- the day my first grandchild was born, and I was delighted. Unfortunately, it was the beginning of the end, and the rest of the book was horrible.
I won’t read any more of David Rawding’s books again.
March 20, 2018
Received this book as an ARC for my honest review.
I LOVED the book until it was about 3/4ths of the way through and it went off into left field. James is a social worker that deals with the paper end of things as he was burnt out with doing face to face. He meets Kevin who is a kid at a youth center and James thinks that Kevin could possibly be being abused. James and his wife end up becoming really good friends with Kevin's dad, Tucker and his wife. Kevin isn't being abused but there are more things going on in that house than meets the eye. Maya, James's wife, is a cop and she deals with drugs and the worst of the worst. There maybe some drugs coming in through the water but she can't find a connection. Tucker is a lobster man and is struggling to make it work. So the story was great until it was coming together and then boom, it was just unexpected and shouldn't have ended the way that it did. I understand twists and it aboslutely didn't have to a FTE (fairy tale ending) but really???!! I don't know if I will read another book by this author.
I LOVED the book until it was about 3/4ths of the way through and it went off into left field. James is a social worker that deals with the paper end of things as he was burnt out with doing face to face. He meets Kevin who is a kid at a youth center and James thinks that Kevin could possibly be being abused. James and his wife end up becoming really good friends with Kevin's dad, Tucker and his wife. Kevin isn't being abused but there are more things going on in that house than meets the eye. Maya, James's wife, is a cop and she deals with drugs and the worst of the worst. There maybe some drugs coming in through the water but she can't find a connection. Tucker is a lobster man and is struggling to make it work. So the story was great until it was coming together and then boom, it was just unexpected and shouldn't have ended the way that it did. I understand twists and it aboslutely didn't have to a FTE (fairy tale ending) but really???!! I don't know if I will read another book by this author.
May 30, 2020
I wasn’t a huge fan of this book for a couple reasons. I didn’t feel drawn to any of the characters I don’t think they were developed enough because of the shifting viewpoints of the book.
The book tried to do a lot in a limited number of pages and it just felt to cramped together. The first half of the book felt pretty slow it was setting things up. In the 2nd half of the book is when everything major went down. It just felt rushed and the story felt disjointed. That being said I did enjoy the premise of the story.
The other thing I didn’t like is the fact the thrill got taken out of the book because the book told us who did it. I prefer books to where I can speculate and come to my own conclusions for a bit before we find out who did it.
One thing I did enjoy about the book though was the attention to detail about the fishing and lobstering. I thought it was all described nicely and I was able to picture the setting.
I probably wouldn’t recommend this book to others, but will definitely read other books by this author since I know he can write really good books after reading his other novel “Redemption Grove”
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The book tried to do a lot in a limited number of pages and it just felt to cramped together. The first half of the book felt pretty slow it was setting things up. In the 2nd half of the book is when everything major went down. It just felt rushed and the story felt disjointed. That being said I did enjoy the premise of the story.
The other thing I didn’t like is the fact the thrill got taken out of the book because the book told us who did it. I prefer books to where I can speculate and come to my own conclusions for a bit before we find out who did it.
One thing I did enjoy about the book though was the attention to detail about the fishing and lobstering. I thought it was all described nicely and I was able to picture the setting.
I probably wouldn’t recommend this book to others, but will definitely read other books by this author since I know he can write really good books after reading his other novel “Redemption Grove”
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 11, 2020
Honestly, any book that is set in New England is easy to enjoy. When the story explores places you are familiar with, in this case the New Hampshire Seacoast and the New England Aquarium you are quickly comforted and drawn in. What can I say. I’m a New England girl! The author, David Rawding is also a New England native and it shows his writing. He intimately knows the area and that makes the writing so much better! I was gifted a copy of “Taking on Water” in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this story,it was a fast moving edge of your seat page turner until the very end!! Hold on tight because you will not see the ending coming!!!
James is a social worker who loves his beautiful Wife Maya more than anything. Growing up in an abusive childhood, James is constantly trying to keep his memories and anger under control. When he suspects a young boy is being abused by his father he makes a point to get to know the family and they quickly become friends . When a young boy overdoses at the youth center James volunteers at, his wife, a local police officer, is determined to find out who is bringing drugs into their small New Hampshire town. The twist of fate that brought the families together will soon prove deadly and as the bodies stack up, James’ world will never been the same.
James is a social worker who loves his beautiful Wife Maya more than anything. Growing up in an abusive childhood, James is constantly trying to keep his memories and anger under control. When he suspects a young boy is being abused by his father he makes a point to get to know the family and they quickly become friends . When a young boy overdoses at the youth center James volunteers at, his wife, a local police officer, is determined to find out who is bringing drugs into their small New Hampshire town. The twist of fate that brought the families together will soon prove deadly and as the bodies stack up, James’ world will never been the same.
September 3, 2020
Book review:
Taking on Water
by David Rawding
@davidrawdingauthor
4 stars - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
James Morrow meets a boy named Kevin Flynn at the rec center he frequents and becomes suspicious of the boy’s home life when he notices some bruises on him. Due to his background in social work, he feels obligated to investigate. He befriends the boys father, Tucker, a local lobsterman. After spending some time with Tucker and his family, he lays his suspicions to rest. James, his wife Detective Maya Morrow, and the Flynn’s become fast friends. However, when a boy at the rec center dies of an overdose and Maya begins investigating, she gets a little to close to some dangerous people. Dangerous people that the Flynn’s may be involved with as well.
This book reads like an action movie. There’s very few dull moments. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It has some twists and suspense that keeps you on the edge while reading. It had one twist I didn’t see coming at all.
Thank you David for providing me a copy to read and review!
Taking on Water
by David Rawding
@davidrawdingauthor
4 stars - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
James Morrow meets a boy named Kevin Flynn at the rec center he frequents and becomes suspicious of the boy’s home life when he notices some bruises on him. Due to his background in social work, he feels obligated to investigate. He befriends the boys father, Tucker, a local lobsterman. After spending some time with Tucker and his family, he lays his suspicions to rest. James, his wife Detective Maya Morrow, and the Flynn’s become fast friends. However, when a boy at the rec center dies of an overdose and Maya begins investigating, she gets a little to close to some dangerous people. Dangerous people that the Flynn’s may be involved with as well.
This book reads like an action movie. There’s very few dull moments. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It has some twists and suspense that keeps you on the edge while reading. It had one twist I didn’t see coming at all.
Thank you David for providing me a copy to read and review!
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