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Splintered
Life turns from barely tolerable to complete hell when Maddy Eastin’s impulsive plan to win back the attention of her absentee father backfires. Word of her scheme spreads through her high school, but when mockery escalates to cyberbullying, Maddy and her failed stunt become headline news. But the worst is yet to come…
A disturbed man is fighting the overwhelming urge to surrender to his true nature—a moral code molded by a sadistic father who taught him that a girl needs proper training to become the perfect subservient woman. As he watches Maddy on the evening news, his already fractured psyche completely splinters. She’s the girl he’s been waiting for.
When Maddy disappears, she’s labeled a runaway even though her mother believes it was foul play. Will the two detectives investigating Maddy’s disappearance find her before it’s too late? Or has she already fallen prey to the vicious stranger hunting her?
This mystery/psychological thriller unfolds through the viewpoints of five deeply flawed characters. Each is on their own emotionally charged journey that ultimately intersects in a collision course of devastating consequences.
A disturbed man is fighting the overwhelming urge to surrender to his true nature—a moral code molded by a sadistic father who taught him that a girl needs proper training to become the perfect subservient woman. As he watches Maddy on the evening news, his already fractured psyche completely splinters. She’s the girl he’s been waiting for.
When Maddy disappears, she’s labeled a runaway even though her mother believes it was foul play. Will the two detectives investigating Maddy’s disappearance find her before it’s too late? Or has she already fallen prey to the vicious stranger hunting her?
This mystery/psychological thriller unfolds through the viewpoints of five deeply flawed characters. Each is on their own emotionally charged journey that ultimately intersects in a collision course of devastating consequences.
342 pages, Paperback
Published January 27, 2016
22 people are currently reading
689 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Miller
4 books72 followersWriting has always been in my blood. Since the age of thirteen when I coauthored a cheesy romance novel in a spiral bound notebook, I knew I wanted to pursue writing as a career. But somewhere along the way, I lost my voice. Sure I could craft a witty email or write marketing copy for other authors, as I did in a previous job, but to write that great American novel seemed just out of reach.
As is often happens, life simply got in the way. I got married, had three children, and adopted a black Labrador. As a stay-at-home mom, I was lucky to get an hour a day to myself. And when I found those few precious minutes, they were spent reading a good book. A voracious reader, I've been researching the mystery and suspense genres for more than two decades.
It was in my search for my own identity after staying at home with the kids that ultimately lead me back to my love of writing. I started my journey towards publication in August 2010. The first draft only took four months to write, but was followed by an enormous amount of time rewriting, and an even longer time searching for a publisher. Determination, perseverance, and God's blessing made my publishing dream a reality. I signed a contract with Black Rose Writing on May 18, 2012 and my first mystery novel, "Dead Like Me", debuted in November 2012.
The second installment in the Detective Kate Springer series, "Deadly Fantasies," debuted December 19, 2013. Since that time, the book's rights have reverted back to me and I've gone indie!
My newest mystery novel, "Splintered," debuted in January 2016. In this story, I'm introducing my readers to a whole new set of characters. "Splintered" was chosen as a 2015 Kindle Scout winner and the e-book and audio book will be published by Kindle Press. Check out my website to sign up for my author newsletter so you can keep up-to-date on my writing journey.
As is often happens, life simply got in the way. I got married, had three children, and adopted a black Labrador. As a stay-at-home mom, I was lucky to get an hour a day to myself. And when I found those few precious minutes, they were spent reading a good book. A voracious reader, I've been researching the mystery and suspense genres for more than two decades.
It was in my search for my own identity after staying at home with the kids that ultimately lead me back to my love of writing. I started my journey towards publication in August 2010. The first draft only took four months to write, but was followed by an enormous amount of time rewriting, and an even longer time searching for a publisher. Determination, perseverance, and God's blessing made my publishing dream a reality. I signed a contract with Black Rose Writing on May 18, 2012 and my first mystery novel, "Dead Like Me", debuted in November 2012.
The second installment in the Detective Kate Springer series, "Deadly Fantasies," debuted December 19, 2013. Since that time, the book's rights have reverted back to me and I've gone indie!
My newest mystery novel, "Splintered," debuted in January 2016. In this story, I'm introducing my readers to a whole new set of characters. "Splintered" was chosen as a 2015 Kindle Scout winner and the e-book and audio book will be published by Kindle Press. Check out my website to sign up for my author newsletter so you can keep up-to-date on my writing journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 6, 2016
4 stars for Splintered by Kelly Miller, a new to me author who shows a great understanding of the human psyche.
Her realistic portrayal of the characters in this novel means they could all be people we know. Which is really quite a scary proposition. I think I was that angry teenager wanting desperately to fit in, to be noticed, to have friends, and sure that everything that is wrong with her life is her mother's fault!
The story is told through the viewpoints of the five main characters, and the transition from character to character are seamless.
Maddy's parents have separated, her father going off to "find himself", her mother, Lily, having to move into a one bedroom, down at heel house and take a job to make ends meet. Maddy feels neglected and unloved. Her mother is struggling to adjust to the changes in her life, living on medications to make it through the day and is equally as angry as Maddy.
Sure that if she can lure her father back life will return to how it once was, Maddy fakes her own abduction attempt. But when it all backfires Maddy becomes the victim of both physical and cyberbullying. When Maddy disappears, it becomes a case of the girl who cried wolf. No-one but her mother is concerned that Maddy is anything but a runaway until the police, working on another kidnap case, discover evidence that Maddy has been held in the same location.
Thank you to Bookfunnel and author Kelly Miller for an ARC of Splintered in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
P.S. I originally rated this book 3.5 stars, but on reflection have upgraded it to 4 stars. I loved the way the author dealt with Hank and his brother Dan's relationship; that Hank, with all his faults and twisted psyche, still loved and cared for his brain damaged brother.
Her realistic portrayal of the characters in this novel means they could all be people we know. Which is really quite a scary proposition. I think I was that angry teenager wanting desperately to fit in, to be noticed, to have friends, and sure that everything that is wrong with her life is her mother's fault!
The story is told through the viewpoints of the five main characters, and the transition from character to character are seamless.
Maddy's parents have separated, her father going off to "find himself", her mother, Lily, having to move into a one bedroom, down at heel house and take a job to make ends meet. Maddy feels neglected and unloved. Her mother is struggling to adjust to the changes in her life, living on medications to make it through the day and is equally as angry as Maddy.
Sure that if she can lure her father back life will return to how it once was, Maddy fakes her own abduction attempt. But when it all backfires Maddy becomes the victim of both physical and cyberbullying. When Maddy disappears, it becomes a case of the girl who cried wolf. No-one but her mother is concerned that Maddy is anything but a runaway until the police, working on another kidnap case, discover evidence that Maddy has been held in the same location.
Thank you to Bookfunnel and author Kelly Miller for an ARC of Splintered in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
P.S. I originally rated this book 3.5 stars, but on reflection have upgraded it to 4 stars. I loved the way the author dealt with Hank and his brother Dan's relationship; that Hank, with all his faults and twisted psyche, still loved and cared for his brain damaged brother.
April 28, 2016
"Finally gathering some courage, Maddy tried to memorize his face. She concentrated on the the type of questions the cop who'd created the sketch at the police station had asked her. The eyes were close together. He had freckles on a short stub nose, ears that jutted out a bit. He looked like a goofy kid, but older."......
This thriller begins on a late September day with a teenage girl named Maddy. As a 15 year old girl might do, she sets out to get her absentee fathers attention with a made up story. Her plan doesn't go well and she ends up being the talk of the school. She relishes the attention. The problem is devastating though when Maddy is caught in her lie and the media publishes her story.
Out there a man is watching. Hank Fry and his brother Daniel have had a rather hard life, sons of a murderer. Hank thinks Maddy needs to be taught a lesson only he can give her. A chilling part in the chapter where Hank decides Maddy is the girl for him.
When Maddy first set out with her plan, Detective Terrance Wallace was investigating. Now she's missing and Wallace is reluctant to look for her. Not everyone believes she's really missing, maybe another stunt on her part. This time it's real. Can anyone save her? Even if she lives the horror of what's happening is something everyone who loves her will have to deal with.
Interestingly told from five different characters points of views: Maddy and her mom, Detective Wallace,a family friend that is also a detective, Emma Parker,and Hank, her abductor. I loved and disliked some of the characters, well written and realistic. Told in a carefully weaved tale, sometimes graphic and chilling, from the lie to the ugly truth. Page turner to the very end!
Thank you Kelly Miller.
This thriller begins on a late September day with a teenage girl named Maddy. As a 15 year old girl might do, she sets out to get her absentee fathers attention with a made up story. Her plan doesn't go well and she ends up being the talk of the school. She relishes the attention. The problem is devastating though when Maddy is caught in her lie and the media publishes her story.
Out there a man is watching. Hank Fry and his brother Daniel have had a rather hard life, sons of a murderer. Hank thinks Maddy needs to be taught a lesson only he can give her. A chilling part in the chapter where Hank decides Maddy is the girl for him.
When Maddy first set out with her plan, Detective Terrance Wallace was investigating. Now she's missing and Wallace is reluctant to look for her. Not everyone believes she's really missing, maybe another stunt on her part. This time it's real. Can anyone save her? Even if she lives the horror of what's happening is something everyone who loves her will have to deal with.
Interestingly told from five different characters points of views: Maddy and her mom, Detective Wallace,a family friend that is also a detective, Emma Parker,and Hank, her abductor. I loved and disliked some of the characters, well written and realistic. Told in a carefully weaved tale, sometimes graphic and chilling, from the lie to the ugly truth. Page turner to the very end!
Thank you Kelly Miller.
March 25, 2016
Maddy fakes a kidnapping, in an effort to get the attention of her absentee father. When the truth comes to light, Maddy’s mother is furious, and the kids at her school tease her mercilessly. What she wasn’t expecting, was to get the attention of a seriously disturbed man…
My Thoughts
I voted for this novel to win the KDP select program in 2015, and not surprisingly, it did! I was asked by Amazon to provide a fair, thoughtful, and honest book review, upon acceptance of this book.
I got lost into this fast-paced psychological suspense quickly, immediately feeling sympathy for Maddy who craved the love of a father who left her for his new family. Her plan was impulsive and not very well thought out; typical of most teenagers. I felt terrible for her when she crossed paths with the villain. Labeled as a “troubled teen”, the police were unwilling to invest anymore time into her case. I could feel and sympathize with the frustration her mother felt.
Maddy’s character felt authentic to me. I liked her the most, despite her many flaws.
The story was dark at times and even a bit cringe-worthy – (e.g. A sadistic father who taught his sons to demean and disrespect women). Splintered definitely brings out the emotions of anger, sadness, and even happiness. At times it reminded me of a Law & Order episode, with the unpredictable twists, turns, and heart-racing suspense.
My only problem with this novel was all the POVs; five in all. I was much more invested/interested in the protagonist, her mother, and the villain, than I was with the detective, family friend, etc. Other than that, I really enjoyed this story and I would recommend it to fans of crime fiction, psychological suspense, and mystery/thrillers.
FULL BOOK REVIEW: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2016...
My Thoughts
I voted for this novel to win the KDP select program in 2015, and not surprisingly, it did! I was asked by Amazon to provide a fair, thoughtful, and honest book review, upon acceptance of this book.
I got lost into this fast-paced psychological suspense quickly, immediately feeling sympathy for Maddy who craved the love of a father who left her for his new family. Her plan was impulsive and not very well thought out; typical of most teenagers. I felt terrible for her when she crossed paths with the villain. Labeled as a “troubled teen”, the police were unwilling to invest anymore time into her case. I could feel and sympathize with the frustration her mother felt.
Maddy’s character felt authentic to me. I liked her the most, despite her many flaws.
The story was dark at times and even a bit cringe-worthy – (e.g. A sadistic father who taught his sons to demean and disrespect women). Splintered definitely brings out the emotions of anger, sadness, and even happiness. At times it reminded me of a Law & Order episode, with the unpredictable twists, turns, and heart-racing suspense.
My only problem with this novel was all the POVs; five in all. I was much more invested/interested in the protagonist, her mother, and the villain, than I was with the detective, family friend, etc. Other than that, I really enjoyed this story and I would recommend it to fans of crime fiction, psychological suspense, and mystery/thrillers.
FULL BOOK REVIEW: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2016...
January 18, 2016
Kelly Miller does not disappoint. She deftly intertwines the lives of the characters and the idea that even when life seems it can't get any worse it does! Maddy, a 15 year old who desperately wants to fit in falls victim to a depraved lunatic. Her fight for survival in a world gone wrong kept my stomach in knots of worry.
This is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys a good crime novel!
This is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys a good crime novel!
February 18, 2016
Loved the book Splintered, by Kelly Miller. Young teen who gets in trouble by calling wolf. The aftermath from police, Mother and friends has her wondering where to turn, and then the unthinkable happens!
February 15, 2016
Breathtaking
Couldn't put this book down, just had to see what was coming next. Loved the characters and the story altogether! You won't regret buying this book.
Couldn't put this book down, just had to see what was coming next. Loved the characters and the story altogether! You won't regret buying this book.
May 17, 2016
‘The man grabbed you. Then what happened?’
Maddy Eastin’s life has been turned upside down. Maddy is 15 years old, and she and her mother are living a new (and from Maddy’s perspective, unbearable) life. But Maddy has a plan, one which she is sure will win back the attention of her absentee father. And afterwards, for a brief period, Maddy is accepted at school.
But then Maddy’s plan backfires spectacularly, and the kids who briefly accepted her bully her and make her life utterly miserable. Maddy’s appearance on television doesn’t go the way she planned either – but someone else is watching. And when Maddy disappears, the police are convinced that she’s run away.
This fast-paced story is told from the points of view of five different characters. The character changes are clearly marked, and changing points of view is certainly one way to maintain the suspense.
I enjoyed this story, mostly, and found it difficult to put it down. Shifting between different points of view worked well, but it meant it took me a little longer to get into the story. Once I did, I was hooked. The only aspect of the story that didn’t work well for me was the depiction of Maddy’s father. A minor aspect, which didn’t really impact on the flow of the story.
I can’t write more without spoilers. If you are up for a suspense-filled ride, can handle some difficult situations, and one particularly disturbed character, you may also enjoy this novel.
Note: My thanks to Ms Miller for providing me with a free electronic copy of this novel for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Maddy Eastin’s life has been turned upside down. Maddy is 15 years old, and she and her mother are living a new (and from Maddy’s perspective, unbearable) life. But Maddy has a plan, one which she is sure will win back the attention of her absentee father. And afterwards, for a brief period, Maddy is accepted at school.
But then Maddy’s plan backfires spectacularly, and the kids who briefly accepted her bully her and make her life utterly miserable. Maddy’s appearance on television doesn’t go the way she planned either – but someone else is watching. And when Maddy disappears, the police are convinced that she’s run away.
This fast-paced story is told from the points of view of five different characters. The character changes are clearly marked, and changing points of view is certainly one way to maintain the suspense.
I enjoyed this story, mostly, and found it difficult to put it down. Shifting between different points of view worked well, but it meant it took me a little longer to get into the story. Once I did, I was hooked. The only aspect of the story that didn’t work well for me was the depiction of Maddy’s father. A minor aspect, which didn’t really impact on the flow of the story.
I can’t write more without spoilers. If you are up for a suspense-filled ride, can handle some difficult situations, and one particularly disturbed character, you may also enjoy this novel.
Note: My thanks to Ms Miller for providing me with a free electronic copy of this novel for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 8, 2016
A Twisted Tale That Is Indeed Splintered!!
I found the book a bit different in the style it was written, darting from person to person as the book unfolds, but it manages to work. I was disappointed at the initial way the abduction took place. I do find when I'm reading, especially through a first person account of what someone is feeling, thinking and experiencing, I tend believe what I'm reading to be what's occurring
This book certainly takes on many issues and incorporates them well into the story of Maddy, her dysfunctional family, friends, official investigations and the mind of a psychopath. It also shows the reader a glimpse into the world of cyber bullying bringing some knowledge or an insiders glimpse into the painful reality that currently exists in today's technological society. I would also say a traditional bit of folklore thrown in, a lesson we are generally taught very young...no spoilers so you'll have to read for yourself to understand the reference.
In all I would say a good read and I was quite pleased with the writer after receiving this as a gift after nominating it in the Kindle Scout program, it didn't disappoint.
I found the book a bit different in the style it was written, darting from person to person as the book unfolds, but it manages to work. I was disappointed at the initial way the abduction took place. I do find when I'm reading, especially through a first person account of what someone is feeling, thinking and experiencing, I tend believe what I'm reading to be what's occurring
This book certainly takes on many issues and incorporates them well into the story of Maddy, her dysfunctional family, friends, official investigations and the mind of a psychopath. It also shows the reader a glimpse into the world of cyber bullying bringing some knowledge or an insiders glimpse into the painful reality that currently exists in today's technological society. I would also say a traditional bit of folklore thrown in, a lesson we are generally taught very young...no spoilers so you'll have to read for yourself to understand the reference.
In all I would say a good read and I was quite pleased with the writer after receiving this as a gift after nominating it in the Kindle Scout program, it didn't disappoint.
April 27, 2016
My thanks to Kelly Miller for the opportunity to read and review Splintered. This book is well written. It moves fast and kept me up to see what happened next. I really appreciated that the characters were, for the most part, more realistic than those in many other books I've read. Not the rich, perfect, unbelievable figures so common in fiction. They are deeply flawed, and that's definitely refreshing. I'd have liked a bit more of their back stories, but enough was provided to fill in most of the blanks. Whatever did happen to Daniel? Overall, I'll definitely recommend.,
March 29, 2016
This book was good. About a little girl who made up a story and in a way it came true. If I knew when I made up a story it would come true, I would always tell good stories. This character did not know it would come true until it happened. The ending was just what I guessed would happen but I'm glad the author tied it up well in the end.
April 30, 2016
WOW!
This was one of the most powerful and moving books I have ever read. This author is amazing! This book is about so much more than an abduction. I will not say what, just read this book.
This was one of the most powerful and moving books I have ever read. This author is amazing! This book is about so much more than an abduction. I will not say what, just read this book.
February 7, 2019
I enjoyed this book, and it was definitely compelling as I got through it in 2 days. The portrayal of school bullying was spot on. There were just a few things that bugged me.
1- what does the title have to do with the storyline?
2- When Mady is originally thinking of skipping school and decides not to, she says she hates school but hates cleaning toilets more. What is that about? Is that her typical punishment?
3- In the original account of her false kidnapping attempt it says that Mady feels someone grab her wrist. Since it’s first person, that shouldn’t be there if it didn’t happen.
4- The cop doesn’t take her seriously at first because of the previous case where the girl had claimed rape. Obviously that was wrong of her, but it does say that her boyfriend got rough with her when she wouldn’t take him back. Then it makes it sound like no big deal and a total false report. Domestic violence is still a big deal, even if the rape didn’t happen! I felt like that scene totally made light of her getting roughed up.
5- Where was Mady using the bathroom when she was captive? That is never mentioned at all, and it seems it would have been a big deal to her.
Overall a great read. I will probably check out the author’s other works.
1- what does the title have to do with the storyline?
2- When Mady is originally thinking of skipping school and decides not to, she says she hates school but hates cleaning toilets more. What is that about? Is that her typical punishment?
3- In the original account of her false kidnapping attempt it says that Mady feels someone grab her wrist. Since it’s first person, that shouldn’t be there if it didn’t happen.
4- The cop doesn’t take her seriously at first because of the previous case where the girl had claimed rape. Obviously that was wrong of her, but it does say that her boyfriend got rough with her when she wouldn’t take him back. Then it makes it sound like no big deal and a total false report. Domestic violence is still a big deal, even if the rape didn’t happen! I felt like that scene totally made light of her getting roughed up.
5- Where was Mady using the bathroom when she was captive? That is never mentioned at all, and it seems it would have been a big deal to her.
Overall a great read. I will probably check out the author’s other works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2018
There are a lot of topics in this book that, unfortunately, many teens can relate to: divorce, absentee parent, bullying. They seem to be portrayed in a realistic manner. My major complaint is that the pacing varies from the first part of the story as compared to the last. The first part focuses on the thwarted "abduction" and the consequences for a 15 year old girl because of her actions regarding it. Too much time was spent on the TV interview, from various points of view. Once the story delves into more of the "thriller" aspect, it speeds along. And the father's reason for leaving? Yah, I figured that was why. It seems that is commonly used when not wanting to make one of the parents seem too "bad." But, overall, I applaud the author for bringing the issues to light in a way that teens can relate to.
January 9, 2019
An exciting thriller about a abducted girl whose family is dysfunctional. Reading about the dysfunction, the abduction, and how people deal in all manner of tragic life developments makes the reader wonder how this will all turn out. Suspense at its best!
November 24, 2019
Teenager
Teens feel they are unloved, not ever considering that others have thoughts and feelings, also.This is such a story of such a young teen. Her thoughts led her to make a bad mistske, causing much pain leading almost to death.
Teens feel they are unloved, not ever considering that others have thoughts and feelings, also.This is such a story of such a young teen. Her thoughts led her to make a bad mistske, causing much pain leading almost to death.
August 14, 2016
http://fallenoverbookreviews.blogspot...
I received this book to give an honest review.
Wow is what I can saw on this book. I didn't expect it to go the way it honestly did. I am at a lost of words on how to write this review without giving anything away. Which may still happen.
When I first started the story I was going oh my goodness Maddy was almost abducted and then we get the true story on what happened and I was just shaking my head. You see Maddy doesn't believe her mother really cares for her or why else would her dad leave them. This on top of teenage hormones Maddy doesn't make the right decisions on how to handle things. Now when we get told the reason why her father truly left I was actually very surprised on that and I give Maddy's mom props on how she handled it. She never bad mouthed her soon to be ex husband she took the brunt of the temper that Maddy has. Maddy learns the hard why that her actions will have consequences and some of them are not nice. So what happens when it all comes to be real and her life is truly in danger? Will she be saved in time? Will she survive what her kidnapper has in store for her?
This story is told in five different points of view. Maddy, her mother, Detective Wallace, Emma who is Maddy's godmother and an officer, and Hank.
Let's talk about the characters right quick. I think the author did a great job with them all. Each one was different and had their own personality.
I think the one that really stood out for me was Hank. He had a hard life growing up and his father helped mold him into the sadistic person he is today but he hides it well. He takes care of his brother Daniel who has some mental health problems. So for him to just act on these urges he has we can see just how sick Hank truly is. We get to see the flashbacks he has from his childhood and they are not pretty.
Maddy is normal teenager who tries to fit in at school, deals with her problems by not talking about them but starting to act out. It broke my heart when she was bullied as I believe her so called friends went to far. When all this is said and done we get to see how Maddy handles it all and we see the change that comes about her.
Maddy's mom we learn that she has an addiction and she fights it when the unthinkable happens to her daughter. She tries so hard to be there for Maddy even when she is pushed away. You see how life just has changed the person she use to be.
Emma she comes back into the Maddy's mom's life when she is called to be told on what is going on with Maddy and we see how Emma will stop at nothing to get Maddy home safe.
The plot was amazing. And I was literally flipping the pages as fast as I could when reading to find out what was going to happen next. This was a excellent book to read and I recommend this book to those who like mysteries and thrillers.
I hope to read more by this author has she has a way with words and pulling you into the story.
I received this book to give an honest review.
Wow is what I can saw on this book. I didn't expect it to go the way it honestly did. I am at a lost of words on how to write this review without giving anything away. Which may still happen.
When I first started the story I was going oh my goodness Maddy was almost abducted and then we get the true story on what happened and I was just shaking my head. You see Maddy doesn't believe her mother really cares for her or why else would her dad leave them. This on top of teenage hormones Maddy doesn't make the right decisions on how to handle things. Now when we get told the reason why her father truly left I was actually very surprised on that and I give Maddy's mom props on how she handled it. She never bad mouthed her soon to be ex husband she took the brunt of the temper that Maddy has. Maddy learns the hard why that her actions will have consequences and some of them are not nice. So what happens when it all comes to be real and her life is truly in danger? Will she be saved in time? Will she survive what her kidnapper has in store for her?
This story is told in five different points of view. Maddy, her mother, Detective Wallace, Emma who is Maddy's godmother and an officer, and Hank.
Let's talk about the characters right quick. I think the author did a great job with them all. Each one was different and had their own personality.
I think the one that really stood out for me was Hank. He had a hard life growing up and his father helped mold him into the sadistic person he is today but he hides it well. He takes care of his brother Daniel who has some mental health problems. So for him to just act on these urges he has we can see just how sick Hank truly is. We get to see the flashbacks he has from his childhood and they are not pretty.
Maddy is normal teenager who tries to fit in at school, deals with her problems by not talking about them but starting to act out. It broke my heart when she was bullied as I believe her so called friends went to far. When all this is said and done we get to see how Maddy handles it all and we see the change that comes about her.
Maddy's mom we learn that she has an addiction and she fights it when the unthinkable happens to her daughter. She tries so hard to be there for Maddy even when she is pushed away. You see how life just has changed the person she use to be.
Emma she comes back into the Maddy's mom's life when she is called to be told on what is going on with Maddy and we see how Emma will stop at nothing to get Maddy home safe.
The plot was amazing. And I was literally flipping the pages as fast as I could when reading to find out what was going to happen next. This was a excellent book to read and I recommend this book to those who like mysteries and thrillers.
I hope to read more by this author has she has a way with words and pulling you into the story.
May 23, 2016
Review originally published at Love Literature Art and Reason book review blog.
Splintered began with Maddie and her fake tale of an almost abduction. The book featured her POV, along with her mom, mom’s ex best friend, the police officer assigned to her case, and another character who would later become a problem. Maddie’s lie spiraled out of control and made her mom question her ability to parent. What began as a glimpse into the lives of the characters quickly turned into a mystery as Maddie’s disappeared without a trace, fairly undetected due to her “cry wolf” incident at the beginning.
Like any other fairly contemporary mystery novel you’d find on the shelves of Target and maybe on Lifetime, the story was complex, griping, and involved multiple perspectives that lead up to one major event. Splintered took place in the Tampa area of Florida, which was nice because I know the area quite well as my husband is originally from there and we visit often.
The book is certainly a great book to pick up when the mood strikes you and you are looking for an enjoyable mystery that is also heavily character based, like many of the Gone Girl-esque novels are. It was great, as well as fairly short with a full story arc. It doesn’t waste time with unnecessary scenes or characters and remains on track, making it perfectly satisfying for a short read! I would compare it to The Good Girl and Reconstructing Amelia, and I would say it’s one of those books you might grab when you’re looking for something to escape into.
Splintered began with Maddie and her fake tale of an almost abduction. The book featured her POV, along with her mom, mom’s ex best friend, the police officer assigned to her case, and another character who would later become a problem. Maddie’s lie spiraled out of control and made her mom question her ability to parent. What began as a glimpse into the lives of the characters quickly turned into a mystery as Maddie’s disappeared without a trace, fairly undetected due to her “cry wolf” incident at the beginning.
Like any other fairly contemporary mystery novel you’d find on the shelves of Target and maybe on Lifetime, the story was complex, griping, and involved multiple perspectives that lead up to one major event. Splintered took place in the Tampa area of Florida, which was nice because I know the area quite well as my husband is originally from there and we visit often.
The book is certainly a great book to pick up when the mood strikes you and you are looking for an enjoyable mystery that is also heavily character based, like many of the Gone Girl-esque novels are. It was great, as well as fairly short with a full story arc. It doesn’t waste time with unnecessary scenes or characters and remains on track, making it perfectly satisfying for a short read! I would compare it to The Good Girl and Reconstructing Amelia, and I would say it’s one of those books you might grab when you’re looking for something to escape into.
February 15, 2017
Started off slow since I didn't like Maddy or any of the other characters so I didn't get drawn in quickly. I don't like to leave books unfinished so unless I lose the book, I eventually finish. This story did pick up, and it could have easily been a tabloid story in any small to midsize town. Category: realistic fiction, drama, detective. Not for people who cannot stand stories about abductions.
June 30, 2016
"Splintered" by Kelly Miller is a psychological thriller about Maddy a 15-year-old girl who fakes an attempted kidnapping, but then regrets it when she gets bullied at school by her peers. So when she really gets kidnapped the police think she ran away and hesitate to believe it's real after wasting so many man hours the previous time. Hank has psycho DNA running through his veins but kept it locked away in order to take care of his mentally challenged brother,but when he sees Maddy on the evening news he can resist no longer.... he has to have her to "train".
"Splintered" to me is a modern retelling of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" but with a teenage girl and a psycho instead. Those who usually fake a situation find themselves in that predicament for real. The characters are realistic of portrayals of people who could be family, friends, or neighbors. And the crime committed could've been ripped from today's news. A scary situation that I hope no one has to go through. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I thank KindleScout for giving me the opportunity to review it.
There are lots of triggers here for anyone who has been kidnapped or had an abusive upbringing.
18+ for adult situations and abuse
Here's the link on Amazon for "Splintered":
https://www.amazon.com/Splintered-Kel...
"Splintered" to me is a modern retelling of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" but with a teenage girl and a psycho instead. Those who usually fake a situation find themselves in that predicament for real. The characters are realistic of portrayals of people who could be family, friends, or neighbors. And the crime committed could've been ripped from today's news. A scary situation that I hope no one has to go through. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I thank KindleScout for giving me the opportunity to review it.
There are lots of triggers here for anyone who has been kidnapped or had an abusive upbringing.
18+ for adult situations and abuse
Here's the link on Amazon for "Splintered":
https://www.amazon.com/Splintered-Kel...
October 15, 2016
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was a very interesting book. I’m not very sure about how I should feel about knowing the bad guys life story before he does what he’s going to do.
I kind of feel like the author was trying to make excuses for him but also trying to give readers an idea about why he’s doing what he’s doing?
*Warning: little spoiler*
I have to write about this and it’s more of a little rant than a spoiler but it does spoil just a tiny bit of the story. The end of chapter 1, it clearly says that an iron hand clamped around her wrist and then in chapter 18 there’s video evidence that there was no one there?
To me, that’s not a good plot twist and that’s the reason for fifth star being taken away. A better one would have been to be as vague as possible.
*End spoiler*
Besides that though, this was actually a pretty good book. The writing was good enough that I was surprised at some parts and anxious at others, the pace was perfect for the plot and the cover is a little creepy though now that I’m looking at it, the girl doesn’t seem all that frightened.
I would recommend this to those who like a good little thriller. A little bit of a mystery too, though not really a who-dun-it.
Thank you for reading my review.
-Sam
This was a very interesting book. I’m not very sure about how I should feel about knowing the bad guys life story before he does what he’s going to do.
I kind of feel like the author was trying to make excuses for him but also trying to give readers an idea about why he’s doing what he’s doing?
*Warning: little spoiler*
I have to write about this and it’s more of a little rant than a spoiler but it does spoil just a tiny bit of the story. The end of chapter 1, it clearly says that an iron hand clamped around her wrist and then in chapter 18 there’s video evidence that there was no one there?
To me, that’s not a good plot twist and that’s the reason for fifth star being taken away. A better one would have been to be as vague as possible.
*End spoiler*
Besides that though, this was actually a pretty good book. The writing was good enough that I was surprised at some parts and anxious at others, the pace was perfect for the plot and the cover is a little creepy though now that I’m looking at it, the girl doesn’t seem all that frightened.
I would recommend this to those who like a good little thriller. A little bit of a mystery too, though not really a who-dun-it.
Thank you for reading my review.
-Sam
October 16, 2016
This book brings you into the life of a 15 year old girl, Maddy Eastin, and her recently singled mother. Each character is struggling with the affects of this recent change, and each character’s decisions effect one and other.
The story portrays the difficult life of a teenager who is facing not only the normal teenage problems, but adult induced problems as well. Maddy’s decisions create even more horrific problems for her along with her mother.
Maddy’s mother’s life is reeling from her marriages recent dissolve. The story portrays the struggles between mother and daughter caused by the absent father and how a child deals with this absence. However, neither child nor woman is prepared for what is coming.
The roles of Hank and his brother, Daniel, play an important role in the story line; however, the abrupt change in one of the brothers takes advantage of the other.
I enjoyed this book and empathized with each character; however, some can relate to the marriage portions of the story but all of the readers will recoil from the painful spiral the young Maddy has to face.
Thanks so much to Kelly for sharing her writings!
The story portrays the difficult life of a teenager who is facing not only the normal teenage problems, but adult induced problems as well. Maddy’s decisions create even more horrific problems for her along with her mother.
Maddy’s mother’s life is reeling from her marriages recent dissolve. The story portrays the struggles between mother and daughter caused by the absent father and how a child deals with this absence. However, neither child nor woman is prepared for what is coming.
The roles of Hank and his brother, Daniel, play an important role in the story line; however, the abrupt change in one of the brothers takes advantage of the other.
I enjoyed this book and empathized with each character; however, some can relate to the marriage portions of the story but all of the readers will recoil from the painful spiral the young Maddy has to face.
Thanks so much to Kelly for sharing her writings!
May 20, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed Splintered. Kelly Miller gets your attention right from the outset when the protagonist, Maddy Eastin, is almost abducted, or is she? Actually Maddy concocts the story in an effort to gain the attention of her father who abandoned her and her mother. Barely making it, Maddy's mother battles depression while she ekes out a meager existence. Maddy's fabrication creates a whirlwind of destruction that includes cyber-bullying by her classmates and the possibility of criminal charges for filing a false police report. However, no one could have predicted that the news report about Maddy's tall tale would catch the attention of someone who will make her life a living hell. The writing was engaging and the story told from multiple alternating POV's is full of hair-raising suspense.
May 10, 2016
When Maddy Eastin tells the police she was nearly abducted by two men in a white van, her world changes for the better as she is accepted more by her peers at school, however, evidence from a neighbour changes everything for Maddy and when she makes an ill-judged TV appearance she lands in the crosshairs of a dangerous predator who has been waiting for his moment.
Well told in no small part due to the authors understanding of human behaviour, this harrowing read is compelling until the last page. Maddy's fraught relationship with her mother and the effect of her absentee father are well written. Just as the antagonist who targets her snaps from long-term conditioning and dysfunctional family influences of his own.
This is my first book from the author and I hope it will not be my last, as her suspenseful and tense writing kept me reading this psychological thriller in one sitting.
Well told in no small part due to the authors understanding of human behaviour, this harrowing read is compelling until the last page. Maddy's fraught relationship with her mother and the effect of her absentee father are well written. Just as the antagonist who targets her snaps from long-term conditioning and dysfunctional family influences of his own.
This is my first book from the author and I hope it will not be my last, as her suspenseful and tense writing kept me reading this psychological thriller in one sitting.
September 10, 2016
Loved this book by one of my favorite authors! It's a fast paced thriller I couldn't put down.
November 21, 2016
This is a very riveting book. Maddy is a young girl who has had a tough patch, and decides to fake an attempted abduction to get her father to pay attention to her. Naturally, this goes very wrong. Maddy is well written, and while she is unlikable for what she did, she has been personified perfectly with a lot of character that does a good job of highlighting the good and the bad. The whole book is well written and insightful in the lives of the characters, and the book is paced well. It was as engaging to read in the first chapter as it was in the last.
I received a free copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book.
August 18, 2016
The characters in this book are definitely flawed. Maddy and her mother were interesting to me because they were realistically flawed. People could relate with her because almost everyone knows what it's like to want attention, to know that someone cares. Although I doubt many people would go to the extreme she did, I understood where her actions came from. This book, at times, was heartbreaking and definitely stirred up many different emotions. The ending was one of hope though,and that is why I gave it 4 stars.
December 29, 2016
This novel did not disappoint me! It was a great read, fast paced, intriguing, and thrilling! I will warn you that you will be anxious reading this. I was...I felt like I was watching an intense episode of Pretty little liars. Kelly Miller, thank you for gifting me this book to review. I loved the characters, their personalities and their stories. It made for a compelling and thrilling novel.
P.S. Can Netflix buy the rights to make this into a movie or a tv show? I'd be down to watch this on screen. :-)
P.S. Can Netflix buy the rights to make this into a movie or a tv show? I'd be down to watch this on screen. :-)
June 2, 2016
I nominated this book in the Kindle Scout program and received a free e-copy when it was selected for publication. Wow, it was really good. Maddy a young girl who cries wolf and makes up an abduction, to then really being kidnapped and terrorized. We get insight into the the kidnappers background and it is just sad and sickening. A family member reveals a twist towards the end I didn't see coming.
May 20, 2016
Loved it!
This is her best work yet. The characters were well developed and believable. The story kept me turning the pages faster to see what happens! Looking forward to more From Kelly Miller.
This is her best work yet. The characters were well developed and believable. The story kept me turning the pages faster to see what happens! Looking forward to more From Kelly Miller.
June 2, 2016
Excellent book. Kept me hooked all the way through. Good portrayal of the characters. 15 is a troubled enough time for most girls without the added trauma Maddie had to go through.
Wall to wall suspense. Definitely to be recommended.
Wall to wall suspense. Definitely to be recommended.
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