What do you think?
Rate this book
Alex Devlin #1
The Bad Things
Alex Devlin’s life changed forever fifteen years ago when her sister Sasha's two small children were snatched in broad daylight. Little Harry’s body was found a few days later, but Millie’s remains were never discovered.
Now Jackie Wood, jailed as an accessory to the twins’ murder, has been released, her conviction quashed by the Appeal Court. Convinced Jackie can reveal where Millie is buried, Alex goes to meet her.
But the unexpected information Wood reveals shocks Alex to the core and threatens to uncover the dark secret she has managed to keep under wraps for the past fifteen years. Because in the end, can we ever really know what is in the hearts of those closest to us?
Now Jackie Wood, jailed as an accessory to the twins’ murder, has been released, her conviction quashed by the Appeal Court. Convinced Jackie can reveal where Millie is buried, Alex goes to meet her.
But the unexpected information Wood reveals shocks Alex to the core and threatens to uncover the dark secret she has managed to keep under wraps for the past fifteen years. Because in the end, can we ever really know what is in the hearts of those closest to us?
332 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2015
223 people are currently reading
1341 people want to read
About the author
Mary-Jane Riley
7 books45 followersMary-Jane wrote her first story on her newly acquired blue Petite typewriter. She was eight. It was about a gang of children who had adventures on mysterious islands, but she soon realised Enid Blyton had cornered that particular market. So she wrote about the Wild West instead. When she grew up she had to earn a living, and became a BBC radio talk show presenter and journalist. She has covered many life-affirming stories, but also some of the darkest events of the past two decades.
Then, in true journalistic style, she decided not to let the facts get in the way of a good story and got creative. She wrote for women’s magazines and small presses. She formed WriteOutLoud with two writer friends to help charities get their message across using their life stories. Now she is writing psychological suspense, drawing on her experiences in journalism. She has three grown-up children and lives in Suffolk with a golden retriever and her television journalist husband.
Then, in true journalistic style, she decided not to let the facts get in the way of a good story and got creative. She wrote for women’s magazines and small presses. She formed WriteOutLoud with two writer friends to help charities get their message across using their life stories. Now she is writing psychological suspense, drawing on her experiences in journalism. She has three grown-up children and lives in Suffolk with a golden retriever and her television journalist husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 25, 2015
This is an interesting and promising debut thriller, concerning the abduction of two young children. Fifteen years previously, twins Harry and Millie were snatched. Harry’s body was later found, but Millie’s whereabouts remains unknown. Their aunt, Alex Devlin, is now a struggling freelance journalist and single mother to teenage son, Gus. Her once beautiful, if somewhat needy, sister, Sasha, lives a half life of self-destructive behaviour and causes Alex immense concern. Torn between the needs of Sasha, worries about Gus, and money, she is pleased to find some romance with Malone – a secretive man who works undercover and who Alex wrote a piece on some time earlier.
Life, however, is about the change forever with the release of Jackie Wood, previously convicted of the murder of the twins, who has won a High Court appeal. Jackie Wood was charged along with Martin Jessop, who hung himself shortly after being found guilty. Wood’s release worries Alex, as she fears that Sasha will not cope – however, the chance then comes for Alex to interview Wood and she is torn between professional interest and personal guilt. I liked the way that Alex is so human – she convinces herself that Wood can tell her the whereabouts of Millie, but is obviously also motivated by financial concerns and sheer curiosity. However, it soon becomes apparent that things are not as clear cut as Alex had imagined and that Jackie Wood is all too aware of Alex’s own secrets…
As well as the interplay between Alex, her family – including Sasha’s ex-husband Jez, and Jackie Wood, there is added interest with the involvement of Inspector Kate Todd, who was a young policewoman at the time of the abductions, and of Ed Killingback, a journalist hot on Alex’s heels as she attempts to uncover the truth about what happened that day so long ago. Full of plot twists and turns, with interesting characters, I enjoyed this very much and look forward to reading more by this author. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
Life, however, is about the change forever with the release of Jackie Wood, previously convicted of the murder of the twins, who has won a High Court appeal. Jackie Wood was charged along with Martin Jessop, who hung himself shortly after being found guilty. Wood’s release worries Alex, as she fears that Sasha will not cope – however, the chance then comes for Alex to interview Wood and she is torn between professional interest and personal guilt. I liked the way that Alex is so human – she convinces herself that Wood can tell her the whereabouts of Millie, but is obviously also motivated by financial concerns and sheer curiosity. However, it soon becomes apparent that things are not as clear cut as Alex had imagined and that Jackie Wood is all too aware of Alex’s own secrets…
As well as the interplay between Alex, her family – including Sasha’s ex-husband Jez, and Jackie Wood, there is added interest with the involvement of Inspector Kate Todd, who was a young policewoman at the time of the abductions, and of Ed Killingback, a journalist hot on Alex’s heels as she attempts to uncover the truth about what happened that day so long ago. Full of plot twists and turns, with interesting characters, I enjoyed this very much and look forward to reading more by this author. Lastly, I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
May 17, 2016
First of all this is the first in a series it does not tell you on the book but it continues the life of Alex Devlin.
The Bad Things is a fast paced psychological thriller which i could not stop reading Mary Jane Riley kept me captivated from start to finish, i loved the characters & the plot was great needless to say i bought the 2nd book straight away.
This story is told by Alex Devlin who's sister Sasha had her children killed 15 years earlier then the plot goes to now when Jackie Wood is released from jail for the murder of twins Harry & Millie clements Harry's body was found in a suitcase contorted & millie's body was never found , Martin Jessop Jackie's accomplice hanged himself 3 months after being incarcerated,
Ed Killingback who works for the Post as a reporter goes to Alex as he wants to look into the story while Alex wants to interview Jackie Wood to find out the truth on what happened to Harry & millie, while all this is going on Sasha is in a deep state of depression & self harms herself as she has never got over the loss of her children.
As Alex & Ed go deeper into the disappearance Jackie Wood is found dead in a caravan so now the question is who killed Jackie Wood?
What we find out is there are a lot of unanswered questions with a twist i did not see coming i really liked this book & mary Jane Riley is an author to watch out for her writing style i loved & the plot strong there is more to be said about this book but don't want to ruin it so READ THIS!
The Bad Things is a fast paced psychological thriller which i could not stop reading Mary Jane Riley kept me captivated from start to finish, i loved the characters & the plot was great needless to say i bought the 2nd book straight away.
This story is told by Alex Devlin who's sister Sasha had her children killed 15 years earlier then the plot goes to now when Jackie Wood is released from jail for the murder of twins Harry & Millie clements Harry's body was found in a suitcase contorted & millie's body was never found , Martin Jessop Jackie's accomplice hanged himself 3 months after being incarcerated,
Ed Killingback who works for the Post as a reporter goes to Alex as he wants to look into the story while Alex wants to interview Jackie Wood to find out the truth on what happened to Harry & millie, while all this is going on Sasha is in a deep state of depression & self harms herself as she has never got over the loss of her children.
As Alex & Ed go deeper into the disappearance Jackie Wood is found dead in a caravan so now the question is who killed Jackie Wood?
What we find out is there are a lot of unanswered questions with a twist i did not see coming i really liked this book & mary Jane Riley is an author to watch out for her writing style i loved & the plot strong there is more to be said about this book but don't want to ruin it so READ THIS!
August 31, 2019
I have been determined as a personal challenge this year to read through my backlist.
This is one of the books I was eager to get to. I received this from the publishers via Netgalley.
There are subsequent books in this series since then.
This is book 1. Which at the time I had no idea that it was to become a series.
That said, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this.
It’s very nicely detailed with a great premise and plot.
After finishing this I can see why it became a series. There are lots of avenues to go down in this one which is the most exciting bit I thought.
Because of books I already have, I’d love to say I’m jumping into book 2, I now own it, and I will read this series.
I’m sorry I didn’t get to this sooner.
Recommend to those who like a thriller with a great family backdrop.
August 14, 2015
The Bad Things is a tense and emotional thriller, a definite page turner, another that I couldn't put down once started and read really fast.
There are two main threads here - Alex, whose sister's children were taken and killed, only one ever turning up - and who hides a difficut secret. Kate, the police detective who found the child's body years ago and has been affected by it ever since who is dragged back into the case when one of the culprits is released from jail having had her conviction declared unsafe. We follow both these women on a twisty turny path towards truth, where secrets lie buried and everybody lies.
This is one of those novels that just grips you - even if at first you are not sure why. It is not a new theme or idea to be sure but that never matters when the story is compelling and this one absolutely is. Alex and Kate were both very different but fascinating and the minutae of their lives quite apart from the central plot was cleverly intertwined with the mystery and gave the story depth.
As for the mystery element, this was a good one for those of us who like to get our head into untwisting the twisted, the author weaves a great little web with some misdirection and mind games - for me, I did begin to see what was coming quite early on but I was never *quite* sure until the actual reveal moment. So as a conundrum, a puzzle to solve, this was spot on.
It is emotional - it deals with the death of children and is at times quite heartbreaking. Mary-Jane Riley handles the sense and feeling of the aftermath of that in a very insightful way, showing sensitivity to the emotive aspects of her story yet allowing it to become part of the whole in a way that works pretty perfectly.
I thought this was an excellent example of it's kind, with gripping characters, a well constructed story and enough resonance to ensure it stays with you after reading.
Recommended.
Happy Reading Folks!
There are two main threads here - Alex, whose sister's children were taken and killed, only one ever turning up - and who hides a difficut secret. Kate, the police detective who found the child's body years ago and has been affected by it ever since who is dragged back into the case when one of the culprits is released from jail having had her conviction declared unsafe. We follow both these women on a twisty turny path towards truth, where secrets lie buried and everybody lies.
This is one of those novels that just grips you - even if at first you are not sure why. It is not a new theme or idea to be sure but that never matters when the story is compelling and this one absolutely is. Alex and Kate were both very different but fascinating and the minutae of their lives quite apart from the central plot was cleverly intertwined with the mystery and gave the story depth.
As for the mystery element, this was a good one for those of us who like to get our head into untwisting the twisted, the author weaves a great little web with some misdirection and mind games - for me, I did begin to see what was coming quite early on but I was never *quite* sure until the actual reveal moment. So as a conundrum, a puzzle to solve, this was spot on.
It is emotional - it deals with the death of children and is at times quite heartbreaking. Mary-Jane Riley handles the sense and feeling of the aftermath of that in a very insightful way, showing sensitivity to the emotive aspects of her story yet allowing it to become part of the whole in a way that works pretty perfectly.
I thought this was an excellent example of it's kind, with gripping characters, a well constructed story and enough resonance to ensure it stays with you after reading.
Recommended.
Happy Reading Folks!
Read
August 28, 201515 years ago 2 small children go missing. Harry's body is found first but Millie's is still missing.
Jackie Wood has now been released from prison, cleared of all involvement. For Alex Devlin and her sister Sasha that only brings the despair back to the surface again.
If Jackie Wood didn't kill those children then who did?
Not convinced that Jackie Wood is telling the truth, Alex meets up with her to try and find out what really happened that day her sister Sasha's children went missing and where is Millie?
My thoughts...
I do read a lot of thrillers and I love finding new authors.
Unfortunately The Bad Things just didn't work for me, although well written. I felt no connection to the characters in fact I didn't like any of them really.
The plot was well thought out but I wasn't gripped and thrilled the way I hoped I would be.
However I wish the author every success with this release and I think many will love it.
May 25, 2016
This was a quite a good psychological thriller. Alex is a single mum to teenager Gus, she is a freelance journalist and is close to her sister Sasha. Sasha's two beautiful children are murdered, Harry's body is found but unfortunately they are unable to find Millie. Alex is extremely worried about Sasha and when the opportunity arises to interview Jackie Wood, the woman convicted of the murders Alex jumps at the chance. What will Jackie say to Alex? Will she find out the answers to her questions about the children? Then Jackie Wood is released after previously being convicted, this is a big shock to both Alex and Sasha. What will happen now?
Good plot and characters, a satisfying read over all.
Good plot and characters, a satisfying read over all.
September 20, 2016
I didn't know too much about The Bad Things before I picked it up. I'd bought it shortly after it was released last summer but didn't get round to reading it. It must have appealed or I wouldn't have clicked it! But then I met the author at the Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival this year after which she got in touch with CrimeBookJunkie asking for a review of her second book, After She Fell. The lovely Joseph Calleja of Read and Relax Book Reviews recommended I read The Bad Things first and I'm glad I took his advice! If you read After She Fell before The Bad Things, there are spoilers and no one likes a spoiler!
The Bad Things is a sinister tale all linked to the disappearance of Alex's niece and nephew 15 years ago. Her nephew's body was found but the little girl was never found. A heartbreaking situation for any family. A couple were convicted of the twins' disappearance but they always professed their innocence. Now 15 years on, the only surviving culprit has had her conviction quashed and freed.
At the back of my mind, I thought Alex had something to do with the twins' disappearance. I didn't like to think that as I quite liked Alex as a character but there was something niggling in my brain. But the story developed and revelations started, I began to doubt the other characters and question their involvement both in current events and the historic disappearance.
I thought the author handled Sasha's state of mind very well. Sasha is portrayed as the grieving mother, pushed over the edge by not being able to bury her daughter and having to live with the constant memory of losing her children. I can't imagine how I'd react if it happened to me so depression doesn't seem out of the question!
To kick the Alex Devlin series off with a story that involves our protagonist and her personal life gives you a real background to the character. Hopefully there will be more to come from Alex and maybe the mysterious Malone - obviously I know there is After She Fell...it makes a refreshing change to have what is a crime investigation carried out by an investigative journalist.
I'd recommend to anyone who likes a good crime thriller!
The Bad Things is a sinister tale all linked to the disappearance of Alex's niece and nephew 15 years ago. Her nephew's body was found but the little girl was never found. A heartbreaking situation for any family. A couple were convicted of the twins' disappearance but they always professed their innocence. Now 15 years on, the only surviving culprit has had her conviction quashed and freed.
At the back of my mind, I thought Alex had something to do with the twins' disappearance. I didn't like to think that as I quite liked Alex as a character but there was something niggling in my brain. But the story developed and revelations started, I began to doubt the other characters and question their involvement both in current events and the historic disappearance.
I thought the author handled Sasha's state of mind very well. Sasha is portrayed as the grieving mother, pushed over the edge by not being able to bury her daughter and having to live with the constant memory of losing her children. I can't imagine how I'd react if it happened to me so depression doesn't seem out of the question!
To kick the Alex Devlin series off with a story that involves our protagonist and her personal life gives you a real background to the character. Hopefully there will be more to come from Alex and maybe the mysterious Malone - obviously I know there is After She Fell...it makes a refreshing change to have what is a crime investigation carried out by an investigative journalist.
I'd recommend to anyone who likes a good crime thriller!
August 24, 2015
What an superb psychological crime debut The Bad Things proved to be. Very convincing and it had me hooked from start to finish. Loved the twists and turns as the past and the present caught up with the strong characters that Mary-Jane Riley provided for our amusement. Hugely readable as the writing flowed beautifully and the characters were well developed along with the tense twisty plot. Highly recommended read that will leave you guessing to the end. But it won't last you long as you'll soon be wrapped in the story unable to stop reading.
Fifteen years ago two young children disappear from their aunties garden in broad daylight. Harry's body was found while young Millie has never been discovered. Alex Devlin feels a terrible guilt and her sisters life is left a wreck by the loss of her children. Now one of the suspects for the crime is released on a technicality after spending years in prison. Alex and her sister Sasha are shocked and devastated by the news. Alex then decides to track this person down, under the pretence of work, to at least try and find out what happened to Millie. But life never goes to plan, especially in a crime thriller...
Along with Alex, there is Kate, a detective inspector involved in the case who's the other main character. Both are searching for the truth but their own lives are revealed by the author to also be complicated to add interest to our story. This isn't outstandingly original, but its just the way its written and the plot presented that's somehow attractive, likeable and encourages you to read on. Enjoyed and finished this one quickly and I look forward to the next book from this promising new author. (Received ARC)
May 30, 2018
This intriguing story almost reads like true crime - there is an air of the 'ordinary people' about the cast of characters. But, as the onion layers begin to fall away, and we learn more about them, these ordinary people aren't so ordinary after all.
The story is seen from two points of view: a victim - and possibly participant in the crime, and the female police detective who is charge of the case - and also has a very close tie to it. The story has two timelines - and we travel from one to the other easily and seamlessly. The author makes the transitions clear and concise.
I always try to guess 'whodunnit' in these kinds of book (I suppose everybody does!) and I really had no idea about this one - though the clues are there along the way if you just follow them. But the author gives you just enough that you don't feel you weren't played fairly with, and not so much as to reveal the killer(s) before she wants you to know.
Though not a 'cozy,' there is little in the way of gore if that kind of thing is a turn off for you in your murder mysteries. There are no gratuitous sex scenes and I don't remember any overuse of vulgarity and/or obscenities (those things don't particularly bother me, I only offer the information for information's sake.
There is a preview of a novel that continues the leading character (I guess there will be a series) and I will definitely read the next one. Hopefully, the same kind of intriguing story and interesting characters will show up in that one!
I recommend to anybody who enjoys a fast, puzzling murder mystery with surprises all along the way.
The story is seen from two points of view: a victim - and possibly participant in the crime, and the female police detective who is charge of the case - and also has a very close tie to it. The story has two timelines - and we travel from one to the other easily and seamlessly. The author makes the transitions clear and concise.
I always try to guess 'whodunnit' in these kinds of book (I suppose everybody does!) and I really had no idea about this one - though the clues are there along the way if you just follow them. But the author gives you just enough that you don't feel you weren't played fairly with, and not so much as to reveal the killer(s) before she wants you to know.
Though not a 'cozy,' there is little in the way of gore if that kind of thing is a turn off for you in your murder mysteries. There are no gratuitous sex scenes and I don't remember any overuse of vulgarity and/or obscenities (those things don't particularly bother me, I only offer the information for information's sake.
There is a preview of a novel that continues the leading character (I guess there will be a series) and I will definitely read the next one. Hopefully, the same kind of intriguing story and interesting characters will show up in that one!
I recommend to anybody who enjoys a fast, puzzling murder mystery with surprises all along the way.
August 15, 2015
This has to be rated as a pretty good first novel. From the start it has pace and this keeps going to the very last pages.
It is fairly typical of the genre, but still manages to be an engaging read. There are two main themes, that of Alex and her sister. That of Kate, the lead detective. Inevitably the two threads become linked.
I liked the development of the characters. Some of the dialogue is a bit weak, but you need to remember that this is really a 'plot-driven' story.
There are some interesting twists and turns. Everything is not as clear-cut as it seems. Throughout there are questions. New characters appear with great frequency. Some stay the distance, some disappear quickly.
I will certainly look out for future books by Mary-Jane Riley, She has the ability to create a story which has style and pace. This is worth adding to your list if you like crime thrillers.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Harper Collins. I hope this review is a fair reward for an advance copy?
It is fairly typical of the genre, but still manages to be an engaging read. There are two main themes, that of Alex and her sister. That of Kate, the lead detective. Inevitably the two threads become linked.
I liked the development of the characters. Some of the dialogue is a bit weak, but you need to remember that this is really a 'plot-driven' story.
There are some interesting twists and turns. Everything is not as clear-cut as it seems. Throughout there are questions. New characters appear with great frequency. Some stay the distance, some disappear quickly.
I will certainly look out for future books by Mary-Jane Riley, She has the ability to create a story which has style and pace. This is worth adding to your list if you like crime thrillers.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Harper Collins. I hope this review is a fair reward for an advance copy?
November 3, 2015
The Bad Things is certainly a gripping and compelling read. From the very first chapter I was completely hooked.
Superbly written and hard to put down, all the characters really come alive. The plot is brilliant, it is cleverly thought out and there were some brilliant twists which I never saw coming. It covers difficult topics and is emotional, heart-breaking and thought-provoking.
To say this is a first novel is pretty impressive, I recommend it and will certainly look out for other books by this author.
Superbly written and hard to put down, all the characters really come alive. The plot is brilliant, it is cleverly thought out and there were some brilliant twists which I never saw coming. It covers difficult topics and is emotional, heart-breaking and thought-provoking.
To say this is a first novel is pretty impressive, I recommend it and will certainly look out for other books by this author.
August 13, 2015
Wow for a first novel this was great, full of twists and turns that kept my attention throughout the whole book which had to be devoured in one sitting, seamless writing between all the main characters, and kept guessing about the murders past and present, I certainly wasn't expecting the ending. A fantastic read and hope to hear more from this author.
December 5, 2017
The story line sounded like it would be right up my alley, missing children stories are always extra suspenseful when your a mom but this ended up being not so much about the missing children and more so about a long winded back ground story. It was ok but i wouldnt call it fast paced or exciting nor would i consider the plot twist all that Wow.
October 3, 2016
A fabulous psychological crime thriller. I got sucked right into the story and found it brilliant. Highly recommend
May 20, 2018
The Bad Things is a Kindle read that I think I read about on Omnimystery and ordered. The story concerns a supposed killer, Jackie Wood, of two children being released from prison on a technicality after many years. The aunt of the children, Alex Devlin, is a writer and decides to interview her in an effort to find out where one of the children’s bodies is because it has never turned up. Jackie is murdered and the investigation begins to turn up secrets about the original case that Alex Devlin, among others, would rather have remain buried. What stood out for me in this book was the utter lack of remorse shown for the ruined lives of innocent people. It was just appalling. Good compelling mystery read.
September 13, 2024
This really took the round about way to get exactly where most of us probably figured out fairly early on. I didn't find any of the characters particularly likable or sympathetic which is wild in a book where kids have been murdered???
But yeah, everyone kind of sucks in their own right without a real reason for that. If you don't read a lot of mystery thrillers, this might be a more enjoyable read but there's also definitely this story told better out there.
But yeah, everyone kind of sucks in their own right without a real reason for that. If you don't read a lot of mystery thrillers, this might be a more enjoyable read but there's also definitely this story told better out there.
July 29, 2020
Suspenseful and tense
August 31, 2016
I enjoyed this a lot. For me, it started off as a very competent thriller with all the usual ingredients, but the last third really packed a punch and even when I thought I had it all worked out, Riley had a few last minute twists to throw in!
This is quite a harrowing story about loss, parenting, relationships and mental illness. There are some incredibly sad passages and deeply traumatised characters but Riley handles all these things with sensitivity and balance. The writing is emotive but this also ensures tension, suspense and a real engagement with the characters.
The main protagonist is Alex, sister to Sasha. Sasha's two young children disappeared 15 years ago - only the body of one of them found. Life has never been the same since and each sister still struggles to continue with every day life even after such a long period of time. Sasha's marriage has disintegrated and Alex finds it hard to commit to relationships, as well as juggling the parenting of her own son who has grown up in the shadow of the family's terrible history. Then Jackie Wood, the woman jailed as an accessory to the children's murder, is released from prison and Alex, a freelance journalist, decides to chase her for an interview........
As soon as I had read the blurb of this novel, I knew I wanted to read it. For any parent, it is unnerving to read about children who are taken as it has to be our worst nightmare, but at the same time, it always makes for a compelling, emotional read, particularly with recent memories of some of the more high profile cases reported in the news.
Riley expertly creates convincing characters in detail. Alex's character is consumed by the dilemma of meeting with Jackie Wood - her professional duty, her duty to her sister, her duty to her nephew and niece, her duty to her own son and to her own boyfriend. She struggles to deal with her own issues as well as the responsibility she feels towards her sister. Following an intense opening sequence, Alex's poor judgement and panic lead her into the very thick of the investigation following Jackie's release and this is exciting- I did question how convincing her behaviour was, but don't worry, Riley has it all worked out and as events continue to unspool, Alex's reticence to tell the truth become explained by the hints about the further darker secrets she is trying to hide.
Inspector Kate Todd, who was involved with the children's disappearance 15 years ago, is recalled to the case. She is an equally engaging character. Once again, haunted by the memories of finding the little boy's body all those years before and the repercussions of this trauma case still affecting her personal life today.
Crime writer Corrie Jackson appeared in an article recently about a top tips for writing. She quoted something she always tries to keep in mind when writing - every character, however big or small in the overall story arc, is the protagonist in their life. I thought this very fitting when I read "The Bad Things." There is quite a wide cast of characters but, like Agatha Christie also does, she encourages us to focus on a couple of main people, becoming absorbed in their narratives and not really taking that much notice of the people milling about in the background. Then as the book reaches its climatic ending, we realise that actually we have been looking at the wrong faces and listening to the wrong voices. Riley develops an intense backstory for each of her characters and the importance of this is increasingly obvious in the final stages of the story. The way the threads converge together and join up all the dots is exceptionally rewarding and gripping.
Although I had some inklings and suspicions about what I thought was going on, which were largely proved to be right, I enjoyed the fact that Riley allows you to do this. In fact, she leads you happily down this path- but then suddenly trips you up a few times just when the end is in sight; just enough to knock your breath out of your sails as you race through the final pages. She is the story teller here and she is in control of the story!
On a totally different note, the location and settings are also very visual. Set in Norfolk / Suffolk, the description is vivid and I enjoyed reading about places I could easily imagine while on holiday in the county.
"The Bad Things" is a good read. I am really keen to read the next book in the series now and will definitely be keeping track of anything Riley publishes. I'm pleased to have discovered her books.
This is quite a harrowing story about loss, parenting, relationships and mental illness. There are some incredibly sad passages and deeply traumatised characters but Riley handles all these things with sensitivity and balance. The writing is emotive but this also ensures tension, suspense and a real engagement with the characters.
The main protagonist is Alex, sister to Sasha. Sasha's two young children disappeared 15 years ago - only the body of one of them found. Life has never been the same since and each sister still struggles to continue with every day life even after such a long period of time. Sasha's marriage has disintegrated and Alex finds it hard to commit to relationships, as well as juggling the parenting of her own son who has grown up in the shadow of the family's terrible history. Then Jackie Wood, the woman jailed as an accessory to the children's murder, is released from prison and Alex, a freelance journalist, decides to chase her for an interview........
As soon as I had read the blurb of this novel, I knew I wanted to read it. For any parent, it is unnerving to read about children who are taken as it has to be our worst nightmare, but at the same time, it always makes for a compelling, emotional read, particularly with recent memories of some of the more high profile cases reported in the news.
Riley expertly creates convincing characters in detail. Alex's character is consumed by the dilemma of meeting with Jackie Wood - her professional duty, her duty to her sister, her duty to her nephew and niece, her duty to her own son and to her own boyfriend. She struggles to deal with her own issues as well as the responsibility she feels towards her sister. Following an intense opening sequence, Alex's poor judgement and panic lead her into the very thick of the investigation following Jackie's release and this is exciting- I did question how convincing her behaviour was, but don't worry, Riley has it all worked out and as events continue to unspool, Alex's reticence to tell the truth become explained by the hints about the further darker secrets she is trying to hide.
Inspector Kate Todd, who was involved with the children's disappearance 15 years ago, is recalled to the case. She is an equally engaging character. Once again, haunted by the memories of finding the little boy's body all those years before and the repercussions of this trauma case still affecting her personal life today.
Crime writer Corrie Jackson appeared in an article recently about a top tips for writing. She quoted something she always tries to keep in mind when writing - every character, however big or small in the overall story arc, is the protagonist in their life. I thought this very fitting when I read "The Bad Things." There is quite a wide cast of characters but, like Agatha Christie also does, she encourages us to focus on a couple of main people, becoming absorbed in their narratives and not really taking that much notice of the people milling about in the background. Then as the book reaches its climatic ending, we realise that actually we have been looking at the wrong faces and listening to the wrong voices. Riley develops an intense backstory for each of her characters and the importance of this is increasingly obvious in the final stages of the story. The way the threads converge together and join up all the dots is exceptionally rewarding and gripping.
Although I had some inklings and suspicions about what I thought was going on, which were largely proved to be right, I enjoyed the fact that Riley allows you to do this. In fact, she leads you happily down this path- but then suddenly trips you up a few times just when the end is in sight; just enough to knock your breath out of your sails as you race through the final pages. She is the story teller here and she is in control of the story!
On a totally different note, the location and settings are also very visual. Set in Norfolk / Suffolk, the description is vivid and I enjoyed reading about places I could easily imagine while on holiday in the county.
"The Bad Things" is a good read. I am really keen to read the next book in the series now and will definitely be keeping track of anything Riley publishes. I'm pleased to have discovered her books.
July 23, 2016
Before we begin my review I had one tiny gripe About When He Fell, I felt the book description was far too detailed, so I was already prepared for a second tragedy right from the start, which was a shame. When He Fell is a novel that packs an emotional punch, it’s both a poignant and emotive read that left me emotionally drained. This novel explores the unthinkable for any parent, a careless act in the playground destroys the lives of two families, which in turn will change the lives of two young boys and their parents forever.
I was unable to take to the main characters of When He Fell, which usually means I struggle to then read the book, but fortunately although the characters aren’t particularly likeable this just added to my curiosity regarding this novel. I found Joanne really irritated me rather than deal with problems head on, she was more likely to bury her head in the sand, and avoided confrontation at every opportunity, she also appeared self absorbed at times putting her career before her family. I did have great empathy for Maddie, as what she goes through with her son Ben is every parents worse nightmare, but I did dislike the needy side of Maddie,and how she was so desperate to be part of a loving family, she didn’t even consider the fallout of her actions. In the characters defence as the plot progresses we do learn more about their pasts, and how this shaped them into the people they had become, and the complexity of their characters actually added to my enjoyment of this novel.
Whilst reading When He Fell I experienced so many different thoughts and feelings throughout, dislike, anger, compassion and irritation and heartbreak, to name but a few and in my opinion this is down to the authors extraordinary ability to give the reader a set of characters who are not always endearing or even very likeable, and you see them for what they really are, which is not very pretty picture at times. When He Fell delves into so many issues loss, abandonment, guilt, the need to feel loved, and most importantly the choices we make as parents, and the ramifications for our children when we make bad decisions. Kate Hewitt has produced an emotionally powerful read, with a well constructed plot, if you are looking for a book to pull on your heartstrings then this might just been the book for you, it certainly left me feeling emotionally drained.
I was unable to take to the main characters of When He Fell, which usually means I struggle to then read the book, but fortunately although the characters aren’t particularly likeable this just added to my curiosity regarding this novel. I found Joanne really irritated me rather than deal with problems head on, she was more likely to bury her head in the sand, and avoided confrontation at every opportunity, she also appeared self absorbed at times putting her career before her family. I did have great empathy for Maddie, as what she goes through with her son Ben is every parents worse nightmare, but I did dislike the needy side of Maddie,and how she was so desperate to be part of a loving family, she didn’t even consider the fallout of her actions. In the characters defence as the plot progresses we do learn more about their pasts, and how this shaped them into the people they had become, and the complexity of their characters actually added to my enjoyment of this novel.
Whilst reading When He Fell I experienced so many different thoughts and feelings throughout, dislike, anger, compassion and irritation and heartbreak, to name but a few and in my opinion this is down to the authors extraordinary ability to give the reader a set of characters who are not always endearing or even very likeable, and you see them for what they really are, which is not very pretty picture at times. When He Fell delves into so many issues loss, abandonment, guilt, the need to feel loved, and most importantly the choices we make as parents, and the ramifications for our children when we make bad decisions. Kate Hewitt has produced an emotionally powerful read, with a well constructed plot, if you are looking for a book to pull on your heartstrings then this might just been the book for you, it certainly left me feeling emotionally drained.
August 30, 2015
This is a really good psychological crime and a great debut for this new author who is certainly one that I will be looking out for in the future. The missing or murdered child storyline has been done quite a lot recently but this one still manages to bring something a bit new to the table.
The two main characters that tell their stories are Alex Devlin, aunt of Millie and Harry who go missing from her back garden, and DI Kate Todd, who 15 years earlier was the one to find 4 year old Harry's body. The other twin, Millie, was never found and when one of the convicted murderers is released on appeal, Alex uses her journalist skills to obtain an interview with her to try to discover what happened to Millie.
I loved the Suffolk setting of this book, I enjoy reading about places I recognise and it suited the style of writing. The character of Kate was the one I took to the most and I certainly feel the author can get more mileage out of her and her backstory, as there is plenty more depth to discover there. It would be nice to meet Kate again on another case sometime in the near future.
While there were many red herrings along the way, I did figure out quite early on which way things were heading but was still rather surprised by the last chapter which I felt rounded the novel off perfectly.
A great debut and an enjoyable "can't put it down" book.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
The two main characters that tell their stories are Alex Devlin, aunt of Millie and Harry who go missing from her back garden, and DI Kate Todd, who 15 years earlier was the one to find 4 year old Harry's body. The other twin, Millie, was never found and when one of the convicted murderers is released on appeal, Alex uses her journalist skills to obtain an interview with her to try to discover what happened to Millie.
I loved the Suffolk setting of this book, I enjoy reading about places I recognise and it suited the style of writing. The character of Kate was the one I took to the most and I certainly feel the author can get more mileage out of her and her backstory, as there is plenty more depth to discover there. It would be nice to meet Kate again on another case sometime in the near future.
While there were many red herrings along the way, I did figure out quite early on which way things were heading but was still rather surprised by the last chapter which I felt rounded the novel off perfectly.
A great debut and an enjoyable "can't put it down" book.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
October 4, 2015
This story revolves around a cold case of murder of twin toddlers, written from a dual perspective - the aunt whose care the children were in when they were abducted; and the police officer who found the little boy.
I enjoyed the story and finished it quickly but it was thin in places, felt a little rushed at times and sadly quite predictable. Some of the characters seemed to go nowhere which was frustrating, but I guess this was intentional to throw you off the scent.
It would be interesting to see if Mary-Jane Riley develops this into the usual detective series, as the main character was interesting enough (again, if a little predictable and frustrating), I'll be keeping an eye on this author in future to follow the character and see how that goes.
I enjoyed the story and finished it quickly but it was thin in places, felt a little rushed at times and sadly quite predictable. Some of the characters seemed to go nowhere which was frustrating, but I guess this was intentional to throw you off the scent.
It would be interesting to see if Mary-Jane Riley develops this into the usual detective series, as the main character was interesting enough (again, if a little predictable and frustrating), I'll be keeping an eye on this author in future to follow the character and see how that goes.
October 25, 2015
Alex is a journalist for a magazine and 15 years ago her twin nephew and niece were abducted from her garden. Only the boy has been discovered so when one of the killers has been released from jail on a technicality she interviews her, hoping to find out what has happened to the little girl and to give her sister Sasha some closure. I started off enjoying this book, but as it went on liked it less and less, finding most of the characters annoying and sadly it all became just a bit too predictable. Other people will absolutely love this so it is probably just me! I did like the way it was written and was gripped enough to see how it all panned out, and would be happy to read something else by this new author. Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
October 9, 2015
This story is about Alex and the deaths of her niece and nephew, as Jackie Wood who was convicted of being an accessory to their murder is released from jail after an appeal.
This is a fantastic debut novel which kept me hooked by how well is was written, and wanting to find out what would happen.
The only reason I cannot give this 5 stars, is that I found it rather predictable in places, and I guessed early on what had happened with the twins and found myself disappointed when I was right. I also thought there was a lot of unanswered questions, especially where Malone and Detective Kate were concerned.
This is a fantastic debut novel which kept me hooked by how well is was written, and wanting to find out what would happen.
The only reason I cannot give this 5 stars, is that I found it rather predictable in places, and I guessed early on what had happened with the twins and found myself disappointed when I was right. I also thought there was a lot of unanswered questions, especially where Malone and Detective Kate were concerned.
December 4, 2016
A story with two threads, both successfully executed is the stuff that makes this crime fiction lover’s heart sing. Mary-Jane Riley pulled off both complex story-lines so well that I was frequently incredibly reluctant to part with my kindle, I just had to know how things played out. And yet this was a book that snuck up on me, not that it started badly, far from it, but the more I turned the pages, the more immersed in the story I became, as the plot wound tighter and tighter, and would not let me go!
Alex Devlin is a reporter, she submits pieces to magazines, using whatever inspiration she can find. Fifteen years before Alex’s sister Sasha’s twins, Harry and Millie Clements went missing. Although Harry’s body was found a few days later, no trace of Millie was ever found. Two people were convicted for their murder; Martin Jessop who had committed suicide a little way into his sentence and Jackie Wood who provided him with an alibi. When the news breaks that Jackie Wood has just been released from prison due to the expert witness in the case being discredited Alex desperately wants to give her sister some closure because Sasha still faces a daily battle to keep going. Her marriage to the twin’s father disintegrated in the aftermath and she has a history of self-harming. Then Alex hits on the idea to interview Jackie Wood to see if she can find out the truth…
With a bit of detective work Alex finds Jackie living in a caravan in Sole Bay in Suffolk which isn’t too far from her home in Norfolk. With the scenes set out of season, the descriptions of the seaside were about as far from the picture postcard variety as you can imagine. This works perfectly as a background of a meeting filled with suspicion, recrimination and a dash of hope – but which emotion belongs to which woman?
In the second strand of this tale we meet Detective Inspector Kate Todd who was starting out in her career when she found Harry Clements’ body and no matter how successfully she’s built her career or her long-standing relationship with Chris, she has never forgotten that day. Watching the release of the woman who was involved, only serves to bring the memories back to the forefront of her mind as she ponders how the family of those two small children are faring.
A good crime fiction novel often doesn’t actually depend on the murder that is at its heart, it depends on the character’s reactions, the plotting and the outcome and Mary-Jane Riley delivers on all three and cleverly avoids dwelling on the death of Harry although of course both children are at the forefront of many of the exceptionally well-drawn character’s minds. What sets this above many other crime fiction books is that the book reveals the complex emotions that many of the characters experience, and we get all that by watching them in action. This author hasn’t fallen into the trap of soliloquies full of woe, instead we see how Alex reacts when she goes to check on her sister Sasha. We also see her switching roles, from sister, to mother to reporter and in another superb twist, the object of one crime reporter’s particular interest in the case. With the clues to what really happened all those years ago coming from different viewpoints, I honestly couldn’t put this book down, it is that well-plotted with enough red-herrings and mysterious incidents, to keep even the keenest of crime fiction readers on their toes.
This is quite an emotional read and not just because of the tender age of the victims. I found myself sympathising with both Alex and Kate and also surprisingly Jackie. The author has made it easy to put yourself in each of these very different character’s shoes, and eloquently builds a picture of their lives after the crime was committed.
Alex Devlin is a reporter, she submits pieces to magazines, using whatever inspiration she can find. Fifteen years before Alex’s sister Sasha’s twins, Harry and Millie Clements went missing. Although Harry’s body was found a few days later, no trace of Millie was ever found. Two people were convicted for their murder; Martin Jessop who had committed suicide a little way into his sentence and Jackie Wood who provided him with an alibi. When the news breaks that Jackie Wood has just been released from prison due to the expert witness in the case being discredited Alex desperately wants to give her sister some closure because Sasha still faces a daily battle to keep going. Her marriage to the twin’s father disintegrated in the aftermath and she has a history of self-harming. Then Alex hits on the idea to interview Jackie Wood to see if she can find out the truth…
With a bit of detective work Alex finds Jackie living in a caravan in Sole Bay in Suffolk which isn’t too far from her home in Norfolk. With the scenes set out of season, the descriptions of the seaside were about as far from the picture postcard variety as you can imagine. This works perfectly as a background of a meeting filled with suspicion, recrimination and a dash of hope – but which emotion belongs to which woman?
In the second strand of this tale we meet Detective Inspector Kate Todd who was starting out in her career when she found Harry Clements’ body and no matter how successfully she’s built her career or her long-standing relationship with Chris, she has never forgotten that day. Watching the release of the woman who was involved, only serves to bring the memories back to the forefront of her mind as she ponders how the family of those two small children are faring.
A good crime fiction novel often doesn’t actually depend on the murder that is at its heart, it depends on the character’s reactions, the plotting and the outcome and Mary-Jane Riley delivers on all three and cleverly avoids dwelling on the death of Harry although of course both children are at the forefront of many of the exceptionally well-drawn character’s minds. What sets this above many other crime fiction books is that the book reveals the complex emotions that many of the characters experience, and we get all that by watching them in action. This author hasn’t fallen into the trap of soliloquies full of woe, instead we see how Alex reacts when she goes to check on her sister Sasha. We also see her switching roles, from sister, to mother to reporter and in another superb twist, the object of one crime reporter’s particular interest in the case. With the clues to what really happened all those years ago coming from different viewpoints, I honestly couldn’t put this book down, it is that well-plotted with enough red-herrings and mysterious incidents, to keep even the keenest of crime fiction readers on their toes.
This is quite an emotional read and not just because of the tender age of the victims. I found myself sympathising with both Alex and Kate and also surprisingly Jackie. The author has made it easy to put yourself in each of these very different character’s shoes, and eloquently builds a picture of their lives after the crime was committed.
February 4, 2017
Alex Devlin’s life changed forever fifteen years ago when her sister Sasha's two small children were snatched in broad daylight. Little Harry’s body was found a few days later, but Millie’s remains were never discovered.
Now Jackie Wood, jailed as an accessory to the twins’ murder, has been released, her conviction quashed by the Appeal Court. Convinced Jackie can reveal where Millie is buried, Alex goes to meet her.
But the unexpected information Wood reveals shocks Alex to the core and threatens to uncover the dark secret she has managed to keep under wraps for the past fifteen years. Because in the end, can we ever really know what is in the hearts of those closest to us?
My Thoughts: The Bad Things alternates between the perspectives of Alex Devlin, a journalist whose niece and nephew were kidnapped and murdered, and DI Kate Todd, who worked the case back then.
Now, fifteen years later, we see Alex trying to find out from Jackie Wood where Millie was buried, and also hoping to ward off the discovery of her long-buried secret. If she could uncover the location of a specific object from Jackie Wood, she might be able to contain her shame.
But nothing is coming together in quite the way Alex hoped, and another murder will add to the puzzling elements of the case, leading Alex, the cops, and other journalists down all the wrong pathways.
Sasha, the mother of the deceased children, was a very disturbed character, and I was suspicious of her from the beginning. The stories Alex shared about their childhoods added to the picture of her as a self-absorbed woman capable of anything, and someone who also used her “victim” role to keep everyone at bay. Who would dare to probe beneath the surface of this wounded creature?
Finding the truth was definitely circumvented by numerous corrupt individuals, both family members and police, who would do anything to keep everyone in the dark.
Even when we thought we had most of the answers to our questions, another narrator at the end of the book brought a final revelation. 4.0 stars.
Now Jackie Wood, jailed as an accessory to the twins’ murder, has been released, her conviction quashed by the Appeal Court. Convinced Jackie can reveal where Millie is buried, Alex goes to meet her.
But the unexpected information Wood reveals shocks Alex to the core and threatens to uncover the dark secret she has managed to keep under wraps for the past fifteen years. Because in the end, can we ever really know what is in the hearts of those closest to us?
My Thoughts: The Bad Things alternates between the perspectives of Alex Devlin, a journalist whose niece and nephew were kidnapped and murdered, and DI Kate Todd, who worked the case back then.
Now, fifteen years later, we see Alex trying to find out from Jackie Wood where Millie was buried, and also hoping to ward off the discovery of her long-buried secret. If she could uncover the location of a specific object from Jackie Wood, she might be able to contain her shame.
But nothing is coming together in quite the way Alex hoped, and another murder will add to the puzzling elements of the case, leading Alex, the cops, and other journalists down all the wrong pathways.
Sasha, the mother of the deceased children, was a very disturbed character, and I was suspicious of her from the beginning. The stories Alex shared about their childhoods added to the picture of her as a self-absorbed woman capable of anything, and someone who also used her “victim” role to keep everyone at bay. Who would dare to probe beneath the surface of this wounded creature?
Finding the truth was definitely circumvented by numerous corrupt individuals, both family members and police, who would do anything to keep everyone in the dark.
Even when we thought we had most of the answers to our questions, another narrator at the end of the book brought a final revelation. 4.0 stars.
August 23, 2020
Für einen Psychothriller, fast ein bisschen zu wenig fesselnd... Durchwegs angenehm zu lesen. Ab der Mitte wurde es dann spannender. Am Ende konnte ich das Buch kaum zur Seite legen. Die Story geht stetig voran, man scheint sich den Tathergang irgendwann auch ausmalen zu können... Aber gegen Ende des Buches, als nur mehr wenige Seiten übrig waren, bekam ich den Eindruck, keine Bestätigung für meine Schlussfolgerungen zu bekommen. Ich hatte wirklich Bedenken, es könne ein Open End sein... Das ist zwar unheimlich packend, lässt einen noch lange nach Beendigung des Buches über die Geschehnisse grübeln, aber ich mag es einfach nicht. Ich möchte richtig abschließen können - in puncto Liebesleben der Hauptdarstellerin, tappt man weiterhin im Dunkeln, es gibt viele unausgesprochene Dinge, was aber völlig ok ist, immerhin konnten die ganzen Verstrickungen gelöst und die Mörder ermittelt werden.
March 10, 2023
I was not pleased with this book. I never warmed up to the main character. Better yet, I did not like her at all. I really can't think of anything good to say about her.
I found it hard to understand how Kate felt she couldn't talk to her husband about not wanting a baby and why. It was very traumatic what she went through and very reasonable. So, that storyline was unnecessary to me and served no purpose. Nor was it necessary to introduce Gilthro. His character wasn't needed and didn't add any substance.
The overall sum of the book wasn't practical either. There was no good reason to frame who was framed for the killings. The "reveal" of everything was quite benign.
Many portions of the story were commonplace, so the book lacked luster. I planned to write more about the parts I was most unhappy with but decided it's too many and don't feel like it.
I found it hard to understand how Kate felt she couldn't talk to her husband about not wanting a baby and why. It was very traumatic what she went through and very reasonable. So, that storyline was unnecessary to me and served no purpose. Nor was it necessary to introduce Gilthro. His character wasn't needed and didn't add any substance.
The overall sum of the book wasn't practical either. There was no good reason to frame who was framed for the killings. The "reveal" of everything was quite benign.
Many portions of the story were commonplace, so the book lacked luster. I planned to write more about the parts I was most unhappy with but decided it's too many and don't feel like it.
August 27, 2017
Mary-Jane Riley has produced a captivating, page-turning thriller in The Bad Things. The layers of deception are intricately peeled back as the story of this family unfolds and the depths of despair are seen in the grieving members left behind. A heinous crime in the small town has shaken the new and even the most experienced investigators to their core. Fifteen years of wonder, buried secrets and guilt emerge page by page. It is a sit on the edge of your seat read…and when you think you have it all figured out, a twist that changes everything you thought you knew about those involved. The Bad Things is perfect for those who like to keep guessing until the very end.
April 22, 2019
An involved and involving mystery that hinges on events that happened fifteen years in the past. Strong sense of place and well-developed characters who kept me interested. Not easy to guess "who done it."
***UPDATE*** After making the mistake of reading the second book in this series, I am changing my ratings of her other mysteries to reflect my deep disappointment in the homophobia on display in her second novel. If you're a fundamentalist who hates all queers, this might be the author for you. Otherwise, best to avoid.
***UPDATE*** After making the mistake of reading the second book in this series, I am changing my ratings of her other mysteries to reflect my deep disappointment in the homophobia on display in her second novel. If you're a fundamentalist who hates all queers, this might be the author for you. Otherwise, best to avoid.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews