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Girl on the Run
When a fairytale fantasy night becomes a nightmare, Chessa Paxton must run for her life...but will the truth set her free? Chessa Paxton, an event planner in Lake Tahoe, celebrates a successful night at the Happily Ever After Ball, but her dream quickly becomes a nightmare when she wakes up beside the body of her dead husband. Nauseous and confused, feeling as if she's been drugged, she can't explain to the sheriff why her princess costume is bloodied. With her father already a convicted murderer, she feels invisible shackles ratcheting onto her wrists and ankles. She runs! But she can't escape vivid flashes of a massacre in a meadow; men and women in fairy tale costumes; Snow White’s dead body shielding her from bullets. Though Chessa is a former costumer and a master of disguise, she quickly learns that hiding while trying to prove herself innocent is the most difficult task imaginable. Especially when the sheriff wants to throw her in jail and the real killer wants to silence her forever. “With a compelling, savvy and sympathetic protagonist, Gerber skillfully weaves a masterful plot with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing right until the explosive finale. A real page-turner and a satisfying read. “ ~ Hannah Dennison, The Honeychurch Hall Mysteries, The Vicky Hill Mysteries “GIRL ON THE RUN never lets you catch your breath. With a heart-pounding pace and twists you'll never see coming, it's guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat.” ~ Hilary Davidson, Anthony Award-winning Author of Blood Always Tells “Spellbound from start to finish. This author grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go. A fantastic debut into the suspense genre.” ~ Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2016
78 people are currently reading
1053 people want to read
About the author
Daryl Wood Gerber
44 books2,480 followersAgatha Award-winning and nationally bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber writes the Aroma Wellness Mysteries, Literary Dining Mysteries, Fairy Garden Mysteries, Cookbook Nook Mysteries, and French Bistro Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she pens the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries.
In addition, Daryl also writes suspense including the stand-alone novel, THE SON'S SECRET, the Aspen Adams novels of suspense, and two more stand-alone titles, DAY OF SECRETS and GIRL ON THE RUN.
She has recently delved into the realm of romance with her first Christmas romance, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.” She loves to cook, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!
Visit Daryl at www.darylwoodgerber.com.
In addition, Daryl also writes suspense including the stand-alone novel, THE SON'S SECRET, the Aspen Adams novels of suspense, and two more stand-alone titles, DAY OF SECRETS and GIRL ON THE RUN.
She has recently delved into the realm of romance with her first Christmas romance, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.
Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.” She loves to cook, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!
Visit Daryl at www.darylwoodgerber.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 9, 2016
This is the first book by Daryl Wood Gerber I have read and have to say it was thoroughly enjoyable. Chessa Paxton is an event planner and attends a major event she has organised with her husband, the Happy Ever After Ball. Unfortunately for Chessa, the event turns out to be anything but. Chessa wakes the next morning to find her husband dead beside her and the police asking questions she is unable to answer. Great characterisation, strong story with many twists and turns that kept me captivated till the end.
March 7, 2016
Girl On the Run by Agatha Award-winning and bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber is her premier venture into the realm of the suspense/thriller genre. “Be careful what you wish for, it might come true.” is an example of a powerful oxymoronic and paradoxical idea. It is as central to human thought and/or experience today as it was centuries ago. Since the beginning of civilization, people have dreamed of fame or wealth or other good fortune. Do you believe in Fairy Tales? Fairy Tale Balls? What would you do if you attended a Happily Ever After Ball and everything turned out wrong? Chessa, the lead character, wakes up after the Happily Ever After Ball in her bedroom lying next to her dead husband. Following standard procedure, the police immediately suspect Chessa killed her spouse so she sneaks out of the house and goes on the run so she can attempt to clear her name. In a tightly woven plot with many twists and turns, the dead body count quickly rises. Despite a mix of awful circumstances, Chessa is a young woman with marked resilience, fortitude and determination. As a reader, I couldn’t stop wanting to see vindication for Chessa, willing her to survive and succeed in clearing her name and reputation while, literally, on the run. This is, without a doubt, one of the best suspense novels I have ever read. You will not be able to set this book down and the ending will definitely surprise you.
"Girl on the Run" skillfully combines fantasy, reality; murder, mayhem, and “can’t put the book down” reading enjoyment! Girl on the Run is a detailed chilling tale with a tangled web of National and International intrigue that is riveting. The conniving, convincing, conflicted characters face impossible choices, the tension is real and may be all too close to the truth. I was happy to read a thriller without explicit sex or vile language, yet filled with multiple, unanticipated twists and turns that keep me turning the pages! Daryl Wood Gerber’s first top-notch action suspense thriller is a must read!
Full Disclosure – An advance review copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would provide an unbiased, honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this review are my own. And to be perfectly honest - I LOVED THIS book!!!!
"Girl on the Run" skillfully combines fantasy, reality; murder, mayhem, and “can’t put the book down” reading enjoyment! Girl on the Run is a detailed chilling tale with a tangled web of National and International intrigue that is riveting. The conniving, convincing, conflicted characters face impossible choices, the tension is real and may be all too close to the truth. I was happy to read a thriller without explicit sex or vile language, yet filled with multiple, unanticipated twists and turns that keep me turning the pages! Daryl Wood Gerber’s first top-notch action suspense thriller is a must read!
Full Disclosure – An advance review copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would provide an unbiased, honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed in this review are my own. And to be perfectly honest - I LOVED THIS book!!!!
March 18, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
A fantastic debut into the suspense genre for Daryl Wood Gerber.
Chessa Paxton attends the Happily Ever After Ball with her husband. All her hard work and planning seem to be a great success. Then she wakes up in her home next her husband with blood all over and her husband dead. She realizes quickly she is the prime suspect and with father already a convicted murderer she knows she doesn’t have a chance. She knows she has to get out of there and she does. She runs! She has to prove she didn’t do it but all she can remember are little snippets of what she thinks happened. With a few disguises and a little help from her friends she tries to find the real killer. While the police are searching for her and not the real killer she finds out that it isn’t easy to hide. The police want to arrest her and the killer wants her dead.
I was spellbound from start to finish. The author grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go. I couldn’t read and flip the pages fast enough. I was so impressed by Chessa courage to find the truth. She was always thinking and planning, staying at least 1 step ahead of the police. Was she remembering correctly? Why was she still alive? Just so she could be framed for the murder? She doesn’t give up. She is determined to find the truth or die trying.
I was so completely engaged by this character and engrossed in the story. Each twist drew me deeper and deeper in, real life around me ceased to exist. The author has written a story with depth and layers full of true mayhem. All the characters are spectacularly written and the situations are so real. I could easily see this book turned into a movie. I had a vivid picture of everyone and everything that happened.
You may know Daryl Wood Gerber, aka Avery Aames for her cozy mystery series’. Let me tell you there is nothing cozy about this story. She has entered the Thriller/Suspense class with a BANG! Drama from page 1 and a story that will give you chills. RUN, don’t walk, to purchase this book, heck pre-order it as soon as you can.
Paradise Rating
A fantastic debut into the suspense genre for Daryl Wood Gerber.
Chessa Paxton attends the Happily Ever After Ball with her husband. All her hard work and planning seem to be a great success. Then she wakes up in her home next her husband with blood all over and her husband dead. She realizes quickly she is the prime suspect and with father already a convicted murderer she knows she doesn’t have a chance. She knows she has to get out of there and she does. She runs! She has to prove she didn’t do it but all she can remember are little snippets of what she thinks happened. With a few disguises and a little help from her friends she tries to find the real killer. While the police are searching for her and not the real killer she finds out that it isn’t easy to hide. The police want to arrest her and the killer wants her dead.
I was spellbound from start to finish. The author grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go. I couldn’t read and flip the pages fast enough. I was so impressed by Chessa courage to find the truth. She was always thinking and planning, staying at least 1 step ahead of the police. Was she remembering correctly? Why was she still alive? Just so she could be framed for the murder? She doesn’t give up. She is determined to find the truth or die trying.
I was so completely engaged by this character and engrossed in the story. Each twist drew me deeper and deeper in, real life around me ceased to exist. The author has written a story with depth and layers full of true mayhem. All the characters are spectacularly written and the situations are so real. I could easily see this book turned into a movie. I had a vivid picture of everyone and everything that happened.
You may know Daryl Wood Gerber, aka Avery Aames for her cozy mystery series’. Let me tell you there is nothing cozy about this story. She has entered the Thriller/Suspense class with a BANG! Drama from page 1 and a story that will give you chills. RUN, don’t walk, to purchase this book, heck pre-order it as soon as you can.
Paradise Rating
September 12, 2016
From the beginning moments of Girl on the Run, we are drawn into a world of fantasy, secrets, and ultimate betrayal.
Standing in the midst of a beautiful Happily Ever Ball, Chessa Paxton, our event planner, has the normal fears about how a party will come off, but something else is tugging at her, something that hints that it is only a matter of time until the worst might occur. Chessa’s fears about her husband Zach are soon realized, and the blurry, eerie feeling that takes over her will be just the tip of the iceberg.
Did someone drug Chessa’s drink? What is the big secret Zach is keeping, and how did Chessa find out that something might be wrong? Who are the frightening characters behind the masks at the ball, and who among them will bring about the ultimate mayhem? Waking up to her dead husband, and learning of a mass murder in a nearby meadow, Chessa slips from the house, eluding the police, and heads out to uncover the truth and to find out who framed her. She knows she is innocent…or is she?
Some of the truths Chessa will discover go back to her childhood when her father was betrayed, and just when we thought we knew all of the secrets, we learn there are more. A “master of disguise,” Chessa cleverly changes up her look while trying to stay ahead of the killer or killers.
The cast of characters is large, including Chessa’s stepfather, a senator named Jeremiah Wolfe, and an evangelical type minister named Davey Diggs. The primary detective in charge is Marcus Newman, with his sidekick Keegan, and we also see early on that, while he believes Chessa could be guilty, certain facts don’t line up with that conclusion, so he is keeping an open mind.
Alternate narrators keep us intrigued as we try to figure out the whodunit as well as the motives behind it all. This suspenseful story that kept me engaged throughout was set in one of my favorite places, Lake Tahoe, so I felt I could have been there with the characters. 4.5 stars.
Standing in the midst of a beautiful Happily Ever Ball, Chessa Paxton, our event planner, has the normal fears about how a party will come off, but something else is tugging at her, something that hints that it is only a matter of time until the worst might occur. Chessa’s fears about her husband Zach are soon realized, and the blurry, eerie feeling that takes over her will be just the tip of the iceberg.
Did someone drug Chessa’s drink? What is the big secret Zach is keeping, and how did Chessa find out that something might be wrong? Who are the frightening characters behind the masks at the ball, and who among them will bring about the ultimate mayhem? Waking up to her dead husband, and learning of a mass murder in a nearby meadow, Chessa slips from the house, eluding the police, and heads out to uncover the truth and to find out who framed her. She knows she is innocent…or is she?
Some of the truths Chessa will discover go back to her childhood when her father was betrayed, and just when we thought we knew all of the secrets, we learn there are more. A “master of disguise,” Chessa cleverly changes up her look while trying to stay ahead of the killer or killers.
The cast of characters is large, including Chessa’s stepfather, a senator named Jeremiah Wolfe, and an evangelical type minister named Davey Diggs. The primary detective in charge is Marcus Newman, with his sidekick Keegan, and we also see early on that, while he believes Chessa could be guilty, certain facts don’t line up with that conclusion, so he is keeping an open mind.
Alternate narrators keep us intrigued as we try to figure out the whodunit as well as the motives behind it all. This suspenseful story that kept me engaged throughout was set in one of my favorite places, Lake Tahoe, so I felt I could have been there with the characters. 4.5 stars.
October 31, 2016
Chessa wakes up after The Happily Ever After Ball next to the body of her dead husband. She doesnt remember what happened, but fearing being falsely convicted like her father, she goes on the run to solve the crime herself. Though I intellectually understood why she ran, I really was irritated by the choices she made. Stealing and involving others in committing illegal acts and in one case, causing someone to be killed after doing her a favor. it is a suspenseful story with interesting twists at times but I never got past the this is stupid and too dangerous thing.
April 9, 2016
How could a fairy tale go so wrong? Girl on the Run drew me in quickly and did not let go until the very end. The characters are very well developed, complex, and keep you guessing, so that when you're not reading this book, you will be thinking about it. Get ready for a wild ride of twists and turns and be prepared to stay up late -- you won’t want to put down this exciting and suspenseful page turner!
I received and ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review ~
I received and ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review ~
March 12, 2016
Chessa Paxton is excited to attend the Happily Ever After Ball...an event that she helped plan and which looks to be a success. But her next memory is waking up alongside her husband's dead body, and after calling the police, realizes she can't explain what happened. Feeling like history is repeating itself, with a father sent to jail years earlier for a murder he claims not to have committed, she goes on the run. Unsure of who to trust, she tries to stay free while unraveling her disjointed memories of the previous night, and discover the real murderer. Assigned to her case, detective Marcus Newman is trying to find out what would compel this woman to commit murder...possibly multiple murders when they discover more victims who also attended the ball. Is Chessa involved or an innocent patsy? I really enjoyed this story, action packed from start to finish, with a strong female lead, and enough plot twists to keep the reader guessing. I was already a fan of this author's cozy mystery series, and this story solidifies her role in the suspense mystery category. Disclosure: I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2016
While this may Daryl Gerber's first foray into 'suspense,' I am hoping it won't be her last. This book is absolutely riveting. A true hold on to your seat suspense! Chessa wakes up after the Happily Ever After Ball in her bedroom, with her dead husband lying next to her. The police immediately suspect her and she sneaks out of the house and goes on the run to try to clear her name. The twists and turns, and dead bodies, mount up and the story just gets better and better. I absolutely could not put it down. Daryl Gerber writing is superb and ranks up there with the best suspense writers! Do yourself a favor and get this book when it comes out April 9. In fact, pre-order it as soon as you can. I was given a pre-release copy for review. It was not required that I give a positive review, but solely to express my own thoughts and opinions of this book, which I have done.
March 4, 2016
I have not read suspense for years, but Daryl Wood Gerber just got me started again! This was a fantastic read! I sat and read the entire book in one afternoon! That too, is unusual for me. An entire college baseball team preparing to leave for Florida couldn't even distract me from this gripping tale!
I have enjoyed both of this author's cozy series, but this was riveting and just downright gripping without explicit sex, filthy language, and with plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the pages!
One thing I really enjoyed was the strength and determination of the young lady, Chessa. She was successful, brave, determined, and vulnerable all wrapped up in a neat little package.
This is available right now for pre-order on Amazon, and this cozy reader found it very easy to scoot right on over to suspense without a blink of an eye!
I have enjoyed both of this author's cozy series, but this was riveting and just downright gripping without explicit sex, filthy language, and with plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the pages!
One thing I really enjoyed was the strength and determination of the young lady, Chessa. She was successful, brave, determined, and vulnerable all wrapped up in a neat little package.
This is available right now for pre-order on Amazon, and this cozy reader found it very easy to scoot right on over to suspense without a blink of an eye!
March 1, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. Chessa was a very believable character for me. I liked her as a character because she fought for herself and kept making the best of her situation, horrible as it was. She is a woman with a lot of grit and determination, and I like that. The entire story is very fast moving and was extremely hard to put down. You need to know what the final resolution is, and as quickly as possible. It constantly kept me guessing and the ending itself was a huge surprise. Overall, one of the best suspense novels I have read in a long time. I did receive a copy from the author for my honest review, but all the opinions are mine alone.
March 28, 2016
Girl on the Run
By Daryl Wood Gerber
5 star review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first suspense novel from best-selling cozy mystery writer, Daryl Wood Gerber. Girl On the Run is a well written thrill-ride that grabbed me from page one. I found myself rooting for Chessa, the girl on the run. There are many exciting twists and turns to find out who or what she is running from. I couldn't wait to find out. I was stunned at the ending. I didn't see it coming. I highly recommend this book.
**Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & comments included in this review are entirely my own.
By Daryl Wood Gerber
5 star review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first suspense novel from best-selling cozy mystery writer, Daryl Wood Gerber. Girl On the Run is a well written thrill-ride that grabbed me from page one. I found myself rooting for Chessa, the girl on the run. There are many exciting twists and turns to find out who or what she is running from. I couldn't wait to find out. I was stunned at the ending. I didn't see it coming. I highly recommend this book.
**Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & comments included in this review are entirely my own.
March 7, 2016
Girl on the Run is a suspense thriller, nail biter, rollercoaster ride that hooked me right away and I could not put it down. When Chessa's world spins out of control, she is determined to find out the truth. Daryl Wood Gerber is a phenomenal author known for her cozy mysteries. This is her first suspense novel and I hope she continues writing this genre. She has a real knack for grabbing hold of your attention, keeping you glued to the edge of your seat, anxiously waiting to see what happens next. I loved this book and wished it didn't have to end. I received a copy of this book in exchange of a fair and honest review.
March 14, 2016
What would you do if you woke up next to your dead husband and couldn't remember anything from the night before? That's what happened to Chessa. The police don't believe her and someone is chasing her. She has to find out what happened and quickly.
Daryl Wood Gerber's Chessa is like a female Jason Bourne without the training. She has to use her contacts and intelligence to figure out the truth.
This book delivers a fast pace suspense book. The main character is smart and resourceful. She is also likeable which makes a believable character. I found myself not wanting to put it down until I was finished. I received a copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
Daryl Wood Gerber's Chessa is like a female Jason Bourne without the training. She has to use her contacts and intelligence to figure out the truth.
This book delivers a fast pace suspense book. The main character is smart and resourceful. She is also likeable which makes a believable character. I found myself not wanting to put it down until I was finished. I received a copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
March 3, 2016
Daryl Wood Gerber's new suspense thriller is a fast paced page turner. Her characters are well developed and expertly woven together. Woods really delivered at her first run in the suspense category. Girl on the Run kept me guessing the whole time. I was constantly changing each new theory that I developed. I look forward to seeing what comes next.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review (glad I did because I loved it). All thoughts and comments in this review are my own.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review (glad I did because I loved it). All thoughts and comments in this review are my own.
March 21, 2016
This is the new suspense novel by Daryl Wood Gerber, fantastic book! Chessa is the girl on the run, after she wakes up next to her dead husband, not remembering what happened. She becomes the prime suspect of course, and due to her past family history, she is unsure if anyone will take her side. So she runs. This book is full of twists and turns, and lots of suspense. I was on the edge of my seat through most of it, I couldn't wait to see what happened! I highly recommend this to anyone, you wont be disappointed. I received an advance copy from the author for my honest opinion.
April 9, 2016
I was really excited to receive an advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a review. I love Daryl Wood Gerber's cozies and how character-driven her books are. I was thrilled to learn she is self-publishing this suspense novel, her first! I must admit the first part was a bit clichè. Woman wakes up next to murdered husband, panics, and runs to clear her name. I was wrong, later there are so many great twists and turns that I couldn't stop reading! Great first suspense, and I hope Daryl can continue writing them!
March 4, 2016
A must read!!!!!
I couldn’t put the book down once I began reading it. The characters were believable and your heart goes out for the main character; Chessa Paxton. Who and what to believe has our characters head spinning.
A fast paced complex read, with twists and turns throughout. The ending will definitely surprise you….
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions in this book are entirely my own.
I couldn’t put the book down once I began reading it. The characters were believable and your heart goes out for the main character; Chessa Paxton. Who and what to believe has our characters head spinning.
A fast paced complex read, with twists and turns throughout. The ending will definitely surprise you….
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions in this book are entirely my own.
March 11, 2016
Daryl Wood Gerber has found her home genre in Suspense with this book. I was captured from the first chapter and couldn't put it down. The family secrets, murder, and the amazing ending kept me turning the pages. Characters and the story line were well crafted and I really liked the multiple narrator format. I am looking forward to more suspense novels by Gerber. I received a copy of this from the author for a fair and honest review. The views and thoughts are my own.
August 21, 2016
The novel takes place over a handful of days -- and what busy, crazy days they are for our heroine. The number one suspect in her husband's death, she goes on the run to find the real killer, all the while worried because she has few memories of the night he died. The novel's twists and turns grow mind-blowingly outlandish by the end, but it's a fun, quick read. I started and finished it on a long day of traveling.
August 12, 2018
Girl on the run by Daryl Woodgerber.
When a fairytale fantasy night becomes a nightmare, Chessa Paxton must run for her life...but will the truth set her free? Chessa Paxton, an event planner in Lake Tahoe, celebrates a successful night at the Happily Ever After Ball, but her dream quickly becomes a nightmare when she wakes up beside the body of her dead husband. Nauseous and confused, feeling as if she's been drugged, she can't explain to the sheriff why her princess costume is bloodied. With her father already a convicted murderer, she feels invisible shackles ratcheting onto her wrists and ankles. She runs! But she can't escape vivid flashes of memory: a massacre in a meadow; men and women in fairytale costumes; Snow White’s dead body shielding her from bullets. Though Chessa is a former costumer and adept at disguise, she quickly learns that hiding while trying to prove herself innocent is the most difficult task imaginable. Especially when the sheriff wants to throw her in jail and the real killer wants to silence her forever.
This was a good read with likeable characters. 4*.
When a fairytale fantasy night becomes a nightmare, Chessa Paxton must run for her life...but will the truth set her free? Chessa Paxton, an event planner in Lake Tahoe, celebrates a successful night at the Happily Ever After Ball, but her dream quickly becomes a nightmare when she wakes up beside the body of her dead husband. Nauseous and confused, feeling as if she's been drugged, she can't explain to the sheriff why her princess costume is bloodied. With her father already a convicted murderer, she feels invisible shackles ratcheting onto her wrists and ankles. She runs! But she can't escape vivid flashes of memory: a massacre in a meadow; men and women in fairytale costumes; Snow White’s dead body shielding her from bullets. Though Chessa is a former costumer and adept at disguise, she quickly learns that hiding while trying to prove herself innocent is the most difficult task imaginable. Especially when the sheriff wants to throw her in jail and the real killer wants to silence her forever.
This was a good read with likeable characters. 4*.
March 18, 2016
A nice first attempt at suspense.
When you wake up in a haze to find your husband murdered and blood on your clothes, what do you do? If, like Chessa, the police seem to be coming after you as the murderer, then you become a "Girl on the Run".
I was so pleased to received this book from the author for a fair and honest review. I am a big fan of Daryl Wood Gerber's cozy mystery series, so I couldn't wait to read her first foray into suspense. The writing was good, the characters had good backstories, and the plot was nicely executed. The reason I gave it 3 stars is this: it didn't feel like a suspense novel. When I read a suspense novel, I like to feel like I'm on the edge of my seat. I need to feel an underlying threat or menace all the time, even if the characters seem to be safe for the moment. That was lacking in this book. If it had been billed as a mystery, I would have given it a higher rating. It had the same pacing I love in all her other books with a slightly edgier tone. As a suspense novel, it just didn't ride the edge that kept me NEEDING to know more. Things did pick up towards the end of the book, but just never hit that suspense sweet spot.
That being said, I would recommend this to mystery readers looking for something with more edge but not a full blown suspense novel. Fans of Tess Gerritsen and Dan Brown are not going to get the same edge of their seat ride with this book, but will probably still enjoy it for the interesting plot twists and characters.
When you wake up in a haze to find your husband murdered and blood on your clothes, what do you do? If, like Chessa, the police seem to be coming after you as the murderer, then you become a "Girl on the Run".
I was so pleased to received this book from the author for a fair and honest review. I am a big fan of Daryl Wood Gerber's cozy mystery series, so I couldn't wait to read her first foray into suspense. The writing was good, the characters had good backstories, and the plot was nicely executed. The reason I gave it 3 stars is this: it didn't feel like a suspense novel. When I read a suspense novel, I like to feel like I'm on the edge of my seat. I need to feel an underlying threat or menace all the time, even if the characters seem to be safe for the moment. That was lacking in this book. If it had been billed as a mystery, I would have given it a higher rating. It had the same pacing I love in all her other books with a slightly edgier tone. As a suspense novel, it just didn't ride the edge that kept me NEEDING to know more. Things did pick up towards the end of the book, but just never hit that suspense sweet spot.
That being said, I would recommend this to mystery readers looking for something with more edge but not a full blown suspense novel. Fans of Tess Gerritsen and Dan Brown are not going to get the same edge of their seat ride with this book, but will probably still enjoy it for the interesting plot twists and characters.
June 1, 2017
Daryl Wood Gerber, the Agatha Award-winning, best selling author has done it again!
This time taking her readers on a true thrill ride. Stepping away from her usual genre of cozy mysteries, she shows that she can compete with any suspense writer out there and has totally hit a home run with Girl on the Run.
The characters in this new novel are captivating and intriguing to say the least. I found myself question each character and their involvement in this gripping thriller. The depth of the characters was perfect, as you felt that you got to know their inner workings and reasoning for their role in the story.
This book is an absolute page-turner, taking you on twists and turns you will not forget. I felt like I was along for the ride and had become part of the story, with my heart beating fast and the feeling of not knowing what was going to happen next, which is always a great aspect of a book!
5 huge stars for this book!
Can't wait for the next one Daryl Wood Gerber!
This time taking her readers on a true thrill ride. Stepping away from her usual genre of cozy mysteries, she shows that she can compete with any suspense writer out there and has totally hit a home run with Girl on the Run.
The characters in this new novel are captivating and intriguing to say the least. I found myself question each character and their involvement in this gripping thriller. The depth of the characters was perfect, as you felt that you got to know their inner workings and reasoning for their role in the story.
This book is an absolute page-turner, taking you on twists and turns you will not forget. I felt like I was along for the ride and had become part of the story, with my heart beating fast and the feeling of not knowing what was going to happen next, which is always a great aspect of a book!
5 huge stars for this book!
Can't wait for the next one Daryl Wood Gerber!
April 4, 2016
Girl on the Run by Daryl Wood Gerber is a compelling, suspenseful, thriller, cannot be put down read. I had to stay up into the wee hours of the morning to finish this wonderful book. Chessa Paxton is a great main character, finding strength when she needed it. Her growth and remembering is quite exciting. Fairy tales gone bad, no. Bad dreams come to life, not really. Chessa has to get justice and make sure she is not railroaded like her father was. This is not my normal genre to read, but with writing this good I was hooked from the get go. Action, deceit, behind the scenes intrigue, family secrets all drive this thriller. So many twists and turns and amazing things uncovered that I was on the edge of my seat (well sitting up in my bed to be accurate). Wonderful character development that was seamlessly woven into an intense story. The end tied things up and satisfied every question I had. This is the author's first foray into suspense coming from cozy writing. If she continues writing in this field, I will be a suspense reader. Stellar writing and an enthralling story line make Girl on the Run a true must read.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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May 28, 20165 Stars for the new book Girl on the Run by Daryl Wood Gerber. I’d like to thank Netgallery for giving me the opportunity to read this book. This is the author’s first time writing a book in the suspense/thriller genre, and it was a win, win. This was so hard to put down once I started reading it. Its chalk full of mystery, murder, twist and turns, and everything you want in suspense book.
The characters are believable, well developed, and keep you guessing, fast pace and the ending will be a jaw dropper that will totally surprise you.
Chessa Paxton is an event planner who helped plan, and attended The Happily Ever After Ball. The next morning she wakes up next to her husband Zach, who is laying there dead. He’s been murdered and Chessa becomes the prime suspect. To prove her innocents before she can be arrested, she goes on the run to prove that she’s innocent. She learns that several others that attended the ball were also murdered that night, so not only is she trying to clear her name, but she’s trying not to be the next victim in what appears to be a killing spree.
The characters are believable, well developed, and keep you guessing, fast pace and the ending will be a jaw dropper that will totally surprise you.
Chessa Paxton is an event planner who helped plan, and attended The Happily Ever After Ball. The next morning she wakes up next to her husband Zach, who is laying there dead. He’s been murdered and Chessa becomes the prime suspect. To prove her innocents before she can be arrested, she goes on the run to prove that she’s innocent. She learns that several others that attended the ball were also murdered that night, so not only is she trying to clear her name, but she’s trying not to be the next victim in what appears to be a killing spree.
March 11, 2016
This is the first suspense novel from Daryl Wood Gerber and she doesn't disappoint. Chessa loves planning events, the Happily Ever After Ball is her latest and if someone gets their way it will be her last. The next morning she wakes up beside her dead husband with the police there. Soon she realizes that she doesn't remember much about the ball but is scared the police will blame the murder on her because of family history. She becomes a girl on the run determined to find out what happened. By the middle of the book you will be screaming Run Chessa Run.
DISCLOSURE: I received An advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review. This book is good, there were a couple of chapters I got confused In and had to go back and re-read but think that was due to my mind not focusing.
DISCLOSURE: I received An advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review. This book is good, there were a couple of chapters I got confused In and had to go back and re-read but think that was due to my mind not focusing.
March 2, 2016
Girl on the Run by established cozy author Daryl Wood Gerber is her debut suspense novel, and a fantastic book! It kept me constantly on the edge of my seat, reading and turning pages as fast as I could just to see what was going to happen next. I simply couldn't put it down! Our heroine, Chessa, is the title character, and on the run for her life. The pace is quick, the story filled with twists and turns, and I felt as if I was on the run right along with Chessa. The author provided an advanced readers copy for a fair and honest review. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a really great read. 5 stars for this fabulous debut! :-)
March 31, 2016
Daryl Wood Gerber's first foray into the suspense/thriller genre is a resounding success. The story is a fast-paced, edge-of-your seat, page turner. The complex characters are revealed one layer at a time. This has the main character, Chessa questioning what and who she can trust...you will as well. I couldn't put the book down I was completely engrossed in the story and needed to know what was going to happen next. I enjoyed this foray into a new genre from Ms. Gerber and hope there will be more in the future.
I received an advanced copy of the manuscript from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of the manuscript from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2017
After attending a charity Fairy Tale Ball Chessa Paxton awakens to find her husband stabbed to death and a feeling as though she was drugged at the event. The book goes along as Chessa races to figure out the truth about what happened that night.
The book is good for those that read Girl on the Train or Gone Girl. While the story jumps around like most stand alone suspenses I was surprised by how under the surface the theme of Fairy Tales kept screaming at me. I have always enjoyed books by Daryl Wood Gerber and while suspenses are really not my thing this was just great! You found yourself not wanting to stop!
The book is good for those that read Girl on the Train or Gone Girl. While the story jumps around like most stand alone suspenses I was surprised by how under the surface the theme of Fairy Tales kept screaming at me. I have always enjoyed books by Daryl Wood Gerber and while suspenses are really not my thing this was just great! You found yourself not wanting to stop!
March 14, 2016
I really liked this story! I haven't been reading suspense novels so much lately but was asked for my honest review of this one. I do like suspense but feel much safer reading cozies. But this suspense novel starts out grabbing my attention and I wanted to just keep reading it. But I had to keep breaking away for other things. I definitely recommend this suspense novel. But how would it not be good, Daryl Wood Gerber wrote it, after all!
The Dedication and Acknowledgement page is also very good.
I was sent a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
The Dedication and Acknowledgement page is also very good.
I was sent a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
April 8, 2016
This is a 3.5 star book. The heroine is suspected of murdering her husband and later of being part of the slaughter of eleven people following a costume ball. She is convinced the Police are framing her for these crimes and runs. But during her run, she investigates the murders and her husband's background. The plot will hold most readers' interest. The heroine is feisty and much tougher than one would expect. It will make decent beach reading.
Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
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