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The Madam: Scars might fade but the memories don't…
Murder, loyalty, and vengeance collide in a gritty read perfect for fans of Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers.
‘Orange is the New Black meets a twisted Southampton’ Molly, Amazon reviewer
‘If you like a crime novel with a strong female lead then you’ll love this’ Katie, Amazon reviewer
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie. It’s time to make them pay…
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
‘Orange is the New Black meets a twisted Southampton’ Molly, Amazon reviewer
‘If you like a crime novel with a strong female lead then you’ll love this’ Katie, Amazon reviewer
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie. It’s time to make them pay…
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2016
140 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 13, 2016
The Madam – A Gutsy Heroine
Lizzie Wells has just served three years and eleven months for the manslaughter of man she states that she is innocent, even if she did plead guilty in court. She has been banged up in Holloway prison gaining the infamous prison tan of grey, but at the same time finding love with Donna, better known as Scar.
In her final year inside the news that every prisoner dreads is the death of a loved one and even more so when it is her young son. She knows that for justice for herself and more importantly for the life her son Leo could have had, she needs to find the truth.
Upon release Lizzie Wells begins the search for the truth, with some naivety and with the help of Scar she starts crashing and thrashing around Southampton. She has a list of people she wants to speak to but is warned off doing so, and if a note is not going to do it maybe a beating will.
While Lizzie is a strong willed woman, she attacks everything head on, without much thought to the consequences and this can lead her up a few blind allies. But it is her gutsy attitude, that at the same time makes her vulnerable to the forces of others in her endeavours for the truth.
Considering that Lizzie Wells is taking on the Police and the criminal fraternity of Southampton, she seems to trust the police a little too much. As anyone will tell you, even if innocent, there is no such thing as a friendly copper or friendly word with a copper, it is a policy of all ex-cons to keep them from returning to the big house.
Jaime Raven has written an excellent story, clear crisp prose that brings out the vulnerability of Lizzie Well’s character while at the same time the determination to right the wrong done to her. As someone who has worked with ex-offenders I recognise the vulnerability at the same time the strength required to survive, innocent or guilty they are just ex-cons to the majority of the public.
An excellent story that draws you and keeps you hooked from beginning to the end, writing about a wronged woman, who is forced to serve time for someone else’s crime. At times the reader wants to scream at Lizzie as she can be annoying such as winding the police up, but that is what makes her a believable character. She has all the faults of a real person trapped in a situation not of her making.
An excellent read which I can recommend highly from an exciting writer, Jaime Raven.
Lizzie Wells has just served three years and eleven months for the manslaughter of man she states that she is innocent, even if she did plead guilty in court. She has been banged up in Holloway prison gaining the infamous prison tan of grey, but at the same time finding love with Donna, better known as Scar.
In her final year inside the news that every prisoner dreads is the death of a loved one and even more so when it is her young son. She knows that for justice for herself and more importantly for the life her son Leo could have had, she needs to find the truth.
Upon release Lizzie Wells begins the search for the truth, with some naivety and with the help of Scar she starts crashing and thrashing around Southampton. She has a list of people she wants to speak to but is warned off doing so, and if a note is not going to do it maybe a beating will.
While Lizzie is a strong willed woman, she attacks everything head on, without much thought to the consequences and this can lead her up a few blind allies. But it is her gutsy attitude, that at the same time makes her vulnerable to the forces of others in her endeavours for the truth.
Considering that Lizzie Wells is taking on the Police and the criminal fraternity of Southampton, she seems to trust the police a little too much. As anyone will tell you, even if innocent, there is no such thing as a friendly copper or friendly word with a copper, it is a policy of all ex-cons to keep them from returning to the big house.
Jaime Raven has written an excellent story, clear crisp prose that brings out the vulnerability of Lizzie Well’s character while at the same time the determination to right the wrong done to her. As someone who has worked with ex-offenders I recognise the vulnerability at the same time the strength required to survive, innocent or guilty they are just ex-cons to the majority of the public.
An excellent story that draws you and keeps you hooked from beginning to the end, writing about a wronged woman, who is forced to serve time for someone else’s crime. At times the reader wants to scream at Lizzie as she can be annoying such as winding the police up, but that is what makes her a believable character. She has all the faults of a real person trapped in a situation not of her making.
An excellent read which I can recommend highly from an exciting writer, Jaime Raven.
August 20, 2016
I couldn't wait to read The Madam because I love gangland thrillers and when a new author comes along it's very exciting (despite the fact I stupidly thought at first that this was written by another gangland author under a pseudonym, one who has vanished from the book world). I went into the book with high hopes and whilst on the whole it was an enjoyable read in places, it did fall flat for me in some parts and wasn't gritty enough for me when compared with other books in the genre. The story focuses on Lizzie who is released from Holloway prison after serving time for a crime she didn't commit. Along with girlfriend Scar (who Lizzie met and fell for inside) she goes off on a, at times, one woman crusade to clear her name and as much as I hate to say it, what follows is a clumsy and comical tale as Lizzie finds herself in a number of ridiculous and contrived situations as those who actually committed the murder that Lizzie was framed for attempt to silence her for good.
The main problem for me was that Lizzie just wasn't an interesting character. I never really cared for her story and so that prevented me from fully engaging with the book. Her girlfriend Scar is an interesting character and I actually think this book might have worked better had Scar been the main character and Lizzie had been a background character. Her forced ballsiness and determination wasn't believable and despite the fact that she fell for a woman whilst behind bars, she's soon eyeing up the cute police officer who is one of the few authority figures actually trying to help her. I actually would have thrown the book across the room had some kind of sickly sweet romance developed between these two characters. She makes some very naive decisions and some of the plot 'twists' can be seen from a mile away because of Lizzie's stupidity at times.
The Madam is also a shorter book that most in the genre and so whilst it's usually a sign of how much I enjoyed a book when I've finished it in less than a day, I finished The Madam so quickly because there just wasn't all that much of a story there. I will admit that I was wrong about a couple of things, namely who was involved in trying to keep Lizzie quiet but even this reveal fell flat because what had came before it was so silly that it just wasn't very believable. The ending is rushed and everything was just wrapped up too neatly for my liking. I was left disappointed with The Madam after going into it with high hopes and whilst I would read another book from Jaime Raven, I wouldn't recommend The Madam as this is a very busy genre and there's a huge number of better books out there and I finished it annoyed with myself for seeing it through to the end.
The main problem for me was that Lizzie just wasn't an interesting character. I never really cared for her story and so that prevented me from fully engaging with the book. Her girlfriend Scar is an interesting character and I actually think this book might have worked better had Scar been the main character and Lizzie had been a background character. Her forced ballsiness and determination wasn't believable and despite the fact that she fell for a woman whilst behind bars, she's soon eyeing up the cute police officer who is one of the few authority figures actually trying to help her. I actually would have thrown the book across the room had some kind of sickly sweet romance developed between these two characters. She makes some very naive decisions and some of the plot 'twists' can be seen from a mile away because of Lizzie's stupidity at times.
The Madam is also a shorter book that most in the genre and so whilst it's usually a sign of how much I enjoyed a book when I've finished it in less than a day, I finished The Madam so quickly because there just wasn't all that much of a story there. I will admit that I was wrong about a couple of things, namely who was involved in trying to keep Lizzie quiet but even this reveal fell flat because what had came before it was so silly that it just wasn't very believable. The ending is rushed and everything was just wrapped up too neatly for my liking. I was left disappointed with The Madam after going into it with high hopes and whilst I would read another book from Jaime Raven, I wouldn't recommend The Madam as this is a very busy genre and there's a huge number of better books out there and I finished it annoyed with myself for seeing it through to the end.
December 6, 2018
I'm so behind with my reviews. What made me want to read on was the first few lines of the prologue.
Southampton 2011. I was naked and covered in someone else's blood. It was smeared across my flesh and dripping from the tips of my fingers onto the carpet.
Three years and eleven months. long Lizzie Wells has been inside Holloway prison, she's serving time for a crime she didn't commit. This is one crime story that held my attention.
Southampton 2011. I was naked and covered in someone else's blood. It was smeared across my flesh and dripping from the tips of my fingers onto the carpet.
Three years and eleven months. long Lizzie Wells has been inside Holloway prison, she's serving time for a crime she didn't commit. This is one crime story that held my attention.
June 29, 2016
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this in exchange for an honest review
loved this book from the beginning to the end, it was a good story line that had me hooked and wanting more with every page turned. highly recommend this and look forward to the next book by Jaime Raven
loved this book from the beginning to the end, it was a good story line that had me hooked and wanting more with every page turned. highly recommend this and look forward to the next book by Jaime Raven
May 19, 2016
The Madam is very much a story of revenge and seeking justice.
Lizzie has wrongfully been imprisoned for the death of one of her clients and as she had no way of proving her innocence she admits to manslaughter so her time in prison will be a shorter one. Unfortunately nearly four years when you have a child feels like forever, especially when tragedy happens.
Lizzie’s time in prison is made slightly easier when she falls for her cell mate, Scar. I have to say I really liked Scar. She is a good influence on Lizzie and you can tell how much she cares about her.
When Lizzie gets out she very much wants to prove her innocence as well as bring justice to the people who set her up. Obviously the people behind setting her up are not to happy with the digging that Lizzie and Scar are doing and try to scare them off.
I have to say that this is one edge of your seat read. Lizzie just seems to attract trouble and it doesn’t help that the police are very far from being on her side.
I will be honest and admit I wasn’t to sure about the novel at first as there are a lot of similar authors with similar style story lines out there and I didn’t know if this one was going to be any different to the others I had read, but by the end I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more by the author.
The Madam is a fast paced novel that certainly kept me on my toes. There are some unexpected surprises in there which I wasn’t expecting and it really made this book stand out for me against others in the same genre. Certainly a gripping read with characters that you unwittingly start to care about. Loved it!
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lizzie has wrongfully been imprisoned for the death of one of her clients and as she had no way of proving her innocence she admits to manslaughter so her time in prison will be a shorter one. Unfortunately nearly four years when you have a child feels like forever, especially when tragedy happens.
Lizzie’s time in prison is made slightly easier when she falls for her cell mate, Scar. I have to say I really liked Scar. She is a good influence on Lizzie and you can tell how much she cares about her.
When Lizzie gets out she very much wants to prove her innocence as well as bring justice to the people who set her up. Obviously the people behind setting her up are not to happy with the digging that Lizzie and Scar are doing and try to scare them off.
I have to say that this is one edge of your seat read. Lizzie just seems to attract trouble and it doesn’t help that the police are very far from being on her side.
I will be honest and admit I wasn’t to sure about the novel at first as there are a lot of similar authors with similar style story lines out there and I didn’t know if this one was going to be any different to the others I had read, but by the end I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading more by the author.
The Madam is a fast paced novel that certainly kept me on my toes. There are some unexpected surprises in there which I wasn’t expecting and it really made this book stand out for me against others in the same genre. Certainly a gripping read with characters that you unwittingly start to care about. Loved it!
Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2016
I found The Madam all quite believable and even though there were times when I wanted Lizzie to slow down and think a little more carefully, I think part of the excitement, for me, came from never knowing what she was going to do next. Scar is the perfect calm counterfoil to Lizzie's impetuousness and together they make the prefect couple.
The plot develops really quickly and it’s very easy to go along with the story as it unfolds. Both Lizzie and Scar are exciting characters; they each have their own faults and failings but each have an undeniable strength and courage when it comes to facing down their enemies. The plot is fast and furious with never a dull moment and there's a gritty, realistic edge which is so essential to a dark and dirty crime story. There is swearing and graphic violence, so if this type of story upsets you, then it's not going to appeal. I think this author’s works sits comfortably alongside the likes of Julie Shaw, Kimberley Chambers and Martina Cole, so if you’re a fan of gritty crime, then this will probably appeal to you.
Overall, the author has written a believable story and has given the characters great personality; I even liked some of the bad guys. The twist in the tale is plausible and in a way, I think that the ending lends itself to a continuation, and maybe even a series, as I can well imagine Lizzie and Scar getting inadvertently drawn into more dark and gritty investigations.
The plot develops really quickly and it’s very easy to go along with the story as it unfolds. Both Lizzie and Scar are exciting characters; they each have their own faults and failings but each have an undeniable strength and courage when it comes to facing down their enemies. The plot is fast and furious with never a dull moment and there's a gritty, realistic edge which is so essential to a dark and dirty crime story. There is swearing and graphic violence, so if this type of story upsets you, then it's not going to appeal. I think this author’s works sits comfortably alongside the likes of Julie Shaw, Kimberley Chambers and Martina Cole, so if you’re a fan of gritty crime, then this will probably appeal to you.
Overall, the author has written a believable story and has given the characters great personality; I even liked some of the bad guys. The twist in the tale is plausible and in a way, I think that the ending lends itself to a continuation, and maybe even a series, as I can well imagine Lizzie and Scar getting inadvertently drawn into more dark and gritty investigations.
August 12, 2021
It felt like it was missing something, the main character was simply unlikable, but not in an interesting way, i also felt the way scar and lizzies relationship was portrayed missed the mark as it was fetishised, the lack of real humanity and relatability with all the characters is what ruined it for me throughout.
November 23, 2016
This book was so bad, I don't even know where to start. It's a bad imitation of a crime novel, the main character is so very unlikable, the plot is thin and the story is resolved way too convienently. What a waste of time.
June 4, 2019
An enjoyable read. If you like authors such as Martina Cole then this is for you.
June 25, 2016
review to follow.
May 8, 2021
A young woman, Lizzie Wells is imprisoned for a crime she did not commit. Whilst in prison her son dies from Meningitis; on her release she is determined to expose those who framed her. The Madam is a story of an underworld; prostitution, crooked businessmen and bent coppers. It is also the story of a city - my city Southampton.
The author, Jaime Raven who is from South London describes Southampton as an ethnically diverse city, full of goby women, where the local accent is a mixture of West Country and Cockney. A broadly accurate description. The names of some of the pubs and restaurants have been changed; the local newspaper is referred to as the Post, the correct name being Echo. Whilst the Titanic pub in Bugle Street is an actual place.
Wells is released from prison after serving three years for manslaughter; one night whilst working as a prostitute she wakes up next to a dead punter covered in blood with a knife in her hand. The punter in question is a journalist working on a story about a businessman and his links to prostitution whose empire is kept afloat by corrupt police officers. Along with her lesbian lover Donna, whom she met in prison she plans to expose this. One might consider this a bit over ambitious; however, Wells is spurred on by a desire for justice and blames those who put her behind bars for the death of her son.
I have previously argued that crime novels have a left-wing slant, even if unintentional as they expose many of society’s injustices. The Madam conforms to this view. It tells the story of a young woman, whose father died at a young age and as a result of poverty turns to prostitution. Or if you prefer to use the more respectable term escorting. The Madam shines a light on the underworld that exists in most if not all British cities. Namely the links between so-called respectable business men who own the restaurants and night clubs, that some of us may eat or drink in to the unsavoury world of prostitution, drugs and protection racketeering. This is a world that, although real, many of us remain oblivious to.
During the novel Wells follows one such respectable businessman to his home in the well healed suburb of Chilworth. An area popular with Southampton footballers and their wives; with mock-Tudor mansions, crew cut hedges and swimming pools. If you ever walk, or drive through such an area, maybe stop to wonder how some of the owners acquired their wealth. Equally whenever you hear a police or ambulance siren remember there is a story behind it. Anything that shines a light on this is worth reading.
The author, Jaime Raven who is from South London describes Southampton as an ethnically diverse city, full of goby women, where the local accent is a mixture of West Country and Cockney. A broadly accurate description. The names of some of the pubs and restaurants have been changed; the local newspaper is referred to as the Post, the correct name being Echo. Whilst the Titanic pub in Bugle Street is an actual place.
Wells is released from prison after serving three years for manslaughter; one night whilst working as a prostitute she wakes up next to a dead punter covered in blood with a knife in her hand. The punter in question is a journalist working on a story about a businessman and his links to prostitution whose empire is kept afloat by corrupt police officers. Along with her lesbian lover Donna, whom she met in prison she plans to expose this. One might consider this a bit over ambitious; however, Wells is spurred on by a desire for justice and blames those who put her behind bars for the death of her son.
I have previously argued that crime novels have a left-wing slant, even if unintentional as they expose many of society’s injustices. The Madam conforms to this view. It tells the story of a young woman, whose father died at a young age and as a result of poverty turns to prostitution. Or if you prefer to use the more respectable term escorting. The Madam shines a light on the underworld that exists in most if not all British cities. Namely the links between so-called respectable business men who own the restaurants and night clubs, that some of us may eat or drink in to the unsavoury world of prostitution, drugs and protection racketeering. This is a world that, although real, many of us remain oblivious to.
During the novel Wells follows one such respectable businessman to his home in the well healed suburb of Chilworth. An area popular with Southampton footballers and their wives; with mock-Tudor mansions, crew cut hedges and swimming pools. If you ever walk, or drive through such an area, maybe stop to wonder how some of the owners acquired their wealth. Equally whenever you hear a police or ambulance siren remember there is a story behind it. Anything that shines a light on this is worth reading.
September 13, 2017
Time taken to read - on and off 3 days
Pages - 328
Publisher - Avon Books
Source - Book shop
Blurb from Goodreads
Women always uncover the truth . . .
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie . . . and to make them pay.
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
My Review
Imagine waking up beside a corpse, covered in their blood and the murder weapon lying on the floor. Fast forward just under four years later, Lizzie is out of prison and she wants to know who set her up. As she starts to dig into the past the warnings come fast and furious and Lizzie finds not only herself but those closest to her in danger. Someone wants Lizzie to leave well alone and will stop at nothing to make it happen.
We follow Lizzie as she emerges from jail, with the help of her partner Scar they set about trying to find information about the crime Lizzie is meant to have committed. Not only do we have theme of investigating the crime, attempting to engage the police we also see Lizzie assessing her choices now she is free. Lesbianism, her mothers cold attitude towards her, dealing with the loss of her child all the while being threatened. It is a busy wee book and you find yourself evaluating how would you act and what would you do. I found Lizzie quite frustrating at times, some of her choices and behaviours had me almost screaming in frustration.
It is a busy wee book, you have the danger and threats hanging over Lizzie and it keeps a decent pace throughout. There is a lot of sadness and Lizzie has much to resolve, a good pace that engages the reader and keeps you turning page after page. 3/5 for me this time, this is my first time reading this author and I would read him again.
Pages - 328
Publisher - Avon Books
Source - Book shop
Blurb from Goodreads
Women always uncover the truth . . .
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie . . . and to make them pay.
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
My Review
Imagine waking up beside a corpse, covered in their blood and the murder weapon lying on the floor. Fast forward just under four years later, Lizzie is out of prison and she wants to know who set her up. As she starts to dig into the past the warnings come fast and furious and Lizzie finds not only herself but those closest to her in danger. Someone wants Lizzie to leave well alone and will stop at nothing to make it happen.
We follow Lizzie as she emerges from jail, with the help of her partner Scar they set about trying to find information about the crime Lizzie is meant to have committed. Not only do we have theme of investigating the crime, attempting to engage the police we also see Lizzie assessing her choices now she is free. Lesbianism, her mothers cold attitude towards her, dealing with the loss of her child all the while being threatened. It is a busy wee book and you find yourself evaluating how would you act and what would you do. I found Lizzie quite frustrating at times, some of her choices and behaviours had me almost screaming in frustration.
It is a busy wee book, you have the danger and threats hanging over Lizzie and it keeps a decent pace throughout. There is a lot of sadness and Lizzie has much to resolve, a good pace that engages the reader and keeps you turning page after page. 3/5 for me this time, this is my first time reading this author and I would read him again.
January 5, 2020
Synopsis..
3 years & 11 months that’s how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
6 months that’s how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate Scar.
Now they are both finally free and together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who frames Lizzie.. Its time to make them pay.
The blurb is what captured my interest, followed by the prologue: Southampton 2011
I was was naked and covered in someone else’s blood..
Coming from Portsmouth this grabbed me straight away to have a book so close to my home town. I read this book in 4 days and loved every page of it. It’s captivating, page turning, heart-wrenching and nerve wracking all at the same time.
Lizzie has been released and is back with her girlfriend and former cell mate, after losing her son to an illness whilst she was still inside she is now dead set on finding out who set her up...
Problem is police don’t believe her, her mum doesn’t believe her. She is a former prostitute that is being watched all the time and being warned by everyone she comes into contact with to stop searching. Followed by beatings, threats and more murders... everything is pointing in her direction.
Loads of questions to answer before she gets caught by the police or killed by the people who set her up.
Who is the lady at the grave, who set her up, who can she trust and where is the evidence to prove her innocence?
The one person who she does trust is Scar her girlfriend and a policeman... should she?
Loved this book and will be looking for the other books by this writer now...
3 years & 11 months that’s how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
6 months that’s how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate Scar.
Now they are both finally free and together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who frames Lizzie.. Its time to make them pay.
The blurb is what captured my interest, followed by the prologue: Southampton 2011
I was was naked and covered in someone else’s blood..
Coming from Portsmouth this grabbed me straight away to have a book so close to my home town. I read this book in 4 days and loved every page of it. It’s captivating, page turning, heart-wrenching and nerve wracking all at the same time.
Lizzie has been released and is back with her girlfriend and former cell mate, after losing her son to an illness whilst she was still inside she is now dead set on finding out who set her up...
Problem is police don’t believe her, her mum doesn’t believe her. She is a former prostitute that is being watched all the time and being warned by everyone she comes into contact with to stop searching. Followed by beatings, threats and more murders... everything is pointing in her direction.
Loads of questions to answer before she gets caught by the police or killed by the people who set her up.
Who is the lady at the grave, who set her up, who can she trust and where is the evidence to prove her innocence?
The one person who she does trust is Scar her girlfriend and a policeman... should she?
Loved this book and will be looking for the other books by this writer now...
January 28, 2019
Not a very imaginative book. The old story of someone imprisoned falsely who sets out to take her revenge on the Mr Big who set her up. In real life she would probably have wound up in the bottom of a canal before the end of the second chapter. Of course it all ends good in the end and they all live happily ever after. I was less than halfway through reading the book and almost decided not to finish it but persevered. Now I wish I had decided not to. The characters especially the heroine deserve little sympathy (ex drug user and at the time of the crime an active prostitute). If you are looking for a good book, this isn't the one. I certainly will not be buying any of the follow-ups.
October 14, 2017
The Madam is another review copy which has been on my list for a long time. My apologies to Jaime Raven for the delay in reading, but it has definitely been worth the wait for me.
Lizzie Wells has served a jail sentence for a crime she hasn't committed. She was framed and once she is released she is determined to prove her innocence and to make those responsible for setting her up pay.
Lizzie is a likeable character. I can't even begin to imagine how devastating it must be to be convicted of a crime when you're completely innocent. Even more so when you know it was a stitch up. I'm not sure I'd be brave enough to take the steps Lizzie takes to prove her innocence. Then again, given other heart-breaking news Lizzie receives whilst still inside, it's no surprise that she feels like there's no way she can move on with her life until she gets the justice she deserves. Will it be worth sacrificing her freedom and her promising future with Scar, though? At the same time as putting herself and her family at risk from those determined to prevent her from uncovering the truth.
This was quite a tense read and it's difficult to review without giving too much away, but I was routing for Lizzie the whole time and hoped she would find her peace.
A gripping storyline, well written with great characterisation. The twists along the way certainly came as a shock.
I would definitely recommend to other crime thriller lovers and I will be adding Jaime Raven's other books to my list.
Many thanks to Jaime Raven for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
Lizzie Wells has served a jail sentence for a crime she hasn't committed. She was framed and once she is released she is determined to prove her innocence and to make those responsible for setting her up pay.
Lizzie is a likeable character. I can't even begin to imagine how devastating it must be to be convicted of a crime when you're completely innocent. Even more so when you know it was a stitch up. I'm not sure I'd be brave enough to take the steps Lizzie takes to prove her innocence. Then again, given other heart-breaking news Lizzie receives whilst still inside, it's no surprise that she feels like there's no way she can move on with her life until she gets the justice she deserves. Will it be worth sacrificing her freedom and her promising future with Scar, though? At the same time as putting herself and her family at risk from those determined to prevent her from uncovering the truth.
This was quite a tense read and it's difficult to review without giving too much away, but I was routing for Lizzie the whole time and hoped she would find her peace.
A gripping storyline, well written with great characterisation. The twists along the way certainly came as a shock.
I would definitely recommend to other crime thriller lovers and I will be adding Jaime Raven's other books to my list.
Many thanks to Jaime Raven for my review copy.
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
March 28, 2019
To be honest this had sat on a bookshelf for an age. I really wasn’t sure at all.
Early indications said the writing wasn’t the best but something kept me interested.
The writing style is not the most accomplished but the plot is fast moving and if a tad unbelievable in places it definitely keeps your attention.
If you’re a fan of Martina Cole and the like you’ll probably enjoy this one
Early indications said the writing wasn’t the best but something kept me interested.
The writing style is not the most accomplished but the plot is fast moving and if a tad unbelievable in places it definitely keeps your attention.
If you’re a fan of Martina Cole and the like you’ll probably enjoy this one
July 2, 2019
This was a fast moving thriller and I enjoyed that. Unfortunately I can't rate it at more than OK because the heroine kept doing things that seemed really, really stupid (and dangerous). They also seemed a bit pointless in terms of what she was trying to achieve, but maybe I was just missing something.
September 14, 2020
I read this as a follow-up to The Alibi by the same author. Not quite up to it in terms of action and plot - but as it was written as a first novel, we can perhaps put it down as a learning experience. I shall defiitely give nmber 3 a go.
March 28, 2019
An ok book
I rread this book and to me it wasn't that good but if you w these kind of books you might like it
I rread this book and to me it wasn't that good but if you w these kind of books you might like it
June 19, 2019
Another brilliant book ..loved it
July 6, 2019
Another fast paced page turner with twists and turns, this is the second book I have read by this author, the first being just as good.
December 12, 2021
Although I thought the story was a little far-fetched, I really enjoyed it. It was fast-paced and full of action.
December 28, 2021
New author for me. Great storyline and really interesting characters. Will read next in line.
Highly Recommend
Highly Recommend
April 30, 2022
Don't judge a book by its cover, this one is much better than it looks!
October 2, 2023
never judge a book by its cover, this was so goooood but the front cover is god awful
April 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, there were lots of twists and turns in it!
September 5, 2018
Great read and great author
What a wonderful book to read and with plenty of twists and turns and will be definitely going to be reading more from this talented author
What a wonderful book to read and with plenty of twists and turns and will be definitely going to be reading more from this talented author
May 7, 2016
My sincere thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK (Avon) and Jaime Raven for an advanced review copy of 'The Madam' in exchange for an honest review.
Women always uncover the truth . . .
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie . . . and to make them pay.
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
This book started out so well. The prologue was filled with blood and gore and such mystery and intrigue that I felt I was reading a sure fire winner. Then it kind of fell flat on its face. Let me explain.
I'm by no means a prude and if a book has scenes of a sexual nature in it then so be it, if it adds to or enhances the plot. Whilst this particular book didn't have many sex scenes as such, our protagonist Lizzie seemed overly smug with herself and the fact that she was in a relationship with a woman - implying that she had succumbed to the relationship merely as something to pass the time in prison only to find out she quite liked it. To the point where it became annoying and if I'm honest, a little insulting towards people in same sex relationships. If I was to try and pinpoint exactly why this novel didn't work for me, I would say that I felt it was projected as an 'us and them' type scenario. Women against the men. And whilst that could work perfectly well in some situations, I don't think it did this book any great favours.
In amongst the violence and the subterfuge was the protagonist's casual "will I or won't I" attitude of whether to 'continue being gay' upon her release from prison which was highlighted by the fact that she constantly felt the need to outrageously flirt with a married male cop, confident that he would find it hard not to succumb to her charms if she so chose. Confused? Yes, so obviously was our protagonist. I think what irked me about the whole situation is that Lizzie seemed quite casual in her attitude towards her girlfriend Scar (yes, you read that right) whilst Scar is hopelessly devoted to Lizzie, going so far as to sport a name tattoo to prove her devotion. Lizzie's confusion over her sexual orientation does play a role in this tale to a degree but I think one mention of it would have sufficed as opposed to banging on about it much like an over indulged teenager perhaps would.
Another thing that irritated me no end was the protagonist herself. She's painted as a feisty lady with nerves of steel - she isn't easily intimated and can hold her own in a fist fight, who upon her release from prison sets out to seek and destroy the real culprits behind the crime she claims she was originally fitted up for. Which is all very well and quite admirable. We all love a strong woman and this one had plenty of potential. Yet a threatening note that's left on her car and a quick scuffle up an alley with some tattooed thugs is enough to have her whip out her phone and dial 999 in a panic or drop by the station to deliver a profanity filled complaint to the male cop she likes to flirt with, instead of handling it on her own as a self professed tough chick might. You can perhaps see where I'm going with this and whilst I always strive to avoid revealing any spoilers, I had the plot and the bad guys pegged by the time I was 30% of the way through the novel. Disappointing.
I feel as if I've been rather harsh with this review but I'm merely being honest about the feelings that the novel evoked in me whilst I was reading it. My views do not detract from the fact that I firmly believe any author who writes a book and is subsequently published has achieved something amazing, regardless of how their work is received. But you can't please everyone all the time, right?
Overall, it was an easy read which didn't require much use of my brain so if that's your thing, then I'd highly recommend this book. If on the other hand you prefer your thrillers a bit more complex, with plenty of red herrings and less sexually confused protagonists, then you might want to avoid this one. 2 ⭐️⭐️ from me.
Women always uncover the truth . . .
Three years and eleven months. That's how long Lizzie Wells has been banged up inside Holloway prison, serving time for a crime she didn’t commit.
Six months. That's how long it’s taken Lizzie to fall in love with her fellow inmate, Scar.
Now they are both finally free and, together, they are about to embark on a vengeful search to find those who framed Lizzie . . . and to make them pay.
THE BUSINESS MAN. THE COPPER. THE MADAM.
This book started out so well. The prologue was filled with blood and gore and such mystery and intrigue that I felt I was reading a sure fire winner. Then it kind of fell flat on its face. Let me explain.
I'm by no means a prude and if a book has scenes of a sexual nature in it then so be it, if it adds to or enhances the plot. Whilst this particular book didn't have many sex scenes as such, our protagonist Lizzie seemed overly smug with herself and the fact that she was in a relationship with a woman - implying that she had succumbed to the relationship merely as something to pass the time in prison only to find out she quite liked it. To the point where it became annoying and if I'm honest, a little insulting towards people in same sex relationships. If I was to try and pinpoint exactly why this novel didn't work for me, I would say that I felt it was projected as an 'us and them' type scenario. Women against the men. And whilst that could work perfectly well in some situations, I don't think it did this book any great favours.
In amongst the violence and the subterfuge was the protagonist's casual "will I or won't I" attitude of whether to 'continue being gay' upon her release from prison which was highlighted by the fact that she constantly felt the need to outrageously flirt with a married male cop, confident that he would find it hard not to succumb to her charms if she so chose. Confused? Yes, so obviously was our protagonist. I think what irked me about the whole situation is that Lizzie seemed quite casual in her attitude towards her girlfriend Scar (yes, you read that right) whilst Scar is hopelessly devoted to Lizzie, going so far as to sport a name tattoo to prove her devotion. Lizzie's confusion over her sexual orientation does play a role in this tale to a degree but I think one mention of it would have sufficed as opposed to banging on about it much like an over indulged teenager perhaps would.
Another thing that irritated me no end was the protagonist herself. She's painted as a feisty lady with nerves of steel - she isn't easily intimated and can hold her own in a fist fight, who upon her release from prison sets out to seek and destroy the real culprits behind the crime she claims she was originally fitted up for. Which is all very well and quite admirable. We all love a strong woman and this one had plenty of potential. Yet a threatening note that's left on her car and a quick scuffle up an alley with some tattooed thugs is enough to have her whip out her phone and dial 999 in a panic or drop by the station to deliver a profanity filled complaint to the male cop she likes to flirt with, instead of handling it on her own as a self professed tough chick might. You can perhaps see where I'm going with this and whilst I always strive to avoid revealing any spoilers, I had the plot and the bad guys pegged by the time I was 30% of the way through the novel. Disappointing.
I feel as if I've been rather harsh with this review but I'm merely being honest about the feelings that the novel evoked in me whilst I was reading it. My views do not detract from the fact that I firmly believe any author who writes a book and is subsequently published has achieved something amazing, regardless of how their work is received. But you can't please everyone all the time, right?
Overall, it was an easy read which didn't require much use of my brain so if that's your thing, then I'd highly recommend this book. If on the other hand you prefer your thrillers a bit more complex, with plenty of red herrings and less sexually confused protagonists, then you might want to avoid this one. 2 ⭐️⭐️ from me.
July 22, 2023
Easy read
May 26, 2016
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Today is my stop of the blog tour of The Madam by Jaime Raven and must say it is my pleasure to review this book. It is the first book that comes from the writing pen of this author, and I hope it won't be the last. He has created a real female vigilante, a character that had to grow up and fight for herself too early in life.
Lizzie has spent last four years in prison for a murder she claims she never committed. She used to work as an escort and her customer has been murdered. His blood has been splattered all over her body and that was enough for the police to make her guilty. To make things worse, her little son dies of meningitis while she is serving her time in prison. But her time behind the bars is over. She comes out as a free woman and she doesn't wanna just settle down and enjoy the freedom. She wants justice! She wants the people responsible for her stitch-up! But can she prove her innocence?
Lizzie is a great character. A real rebel, fighter till the last breath. Life has been hard for her, so looking for the way out in escort services is not an unexpected option. But she is not a murderer. Even when life has bent her down on her knees or when she is the angriest woman on Earth, she is not a murderer. All she wants is justice. Justice for her and her family. Justice for her son who died because she wasn't there when he got sick. Justice for her rights to be a woman and a mother. She isn't the bravest person in the world and often does things before she thinks well, but her heart is pure. She loves her family, her mother, her brother, she loves her little boy who died, she loves her partner, Scar. And she would do anything for them, anything! She knows one thing, justice is on her side, and the real culprits have to pay for the crime she didn't commit.
Starting the journey with The Madam is a real roller coaster. From the bloody sheets in the hotel room, through the bars of the prison cells, to the boat of the local mob, the author takes you side by side with the woman who has nothing to loose. Jaime Raven has written a story full of tension, adrenalin, and emotions.
So if you are a fan of Hugh Fraser's „Harm“, this is the perfect read for you.
Today is my stop of the blog tour of The Madam by Jaime Raven and must say it is my pleasure to review this book. It is the first book that comes from the writing pen of this author, and I hope it won't be the last. He has created a real female vigilante, a character that had to grow up and fight for herself too early in life.
Lizzie has spent last four years in prison for a murder she claims she never committed. She used to work as an escort and her customer has been murdered. His blood has been splattered all over her body and that was enough for the police to make her guilty. To make things worse, her little son dies of meningitis while she is serving her time in prison. But her time behind the bars is over. She comes out as a free woman and she doesn't wanna just settle down and enjoy the freedom. She wants justice! She wants the people responsible for her stitch-up! But can she prove her innocence?
Lizzie is a great character. A real rebel, fighter till the last breath. Life has been hard for her, so looking for the way out in escort services is not an unexpected option. But she is not a murderer. Even when life has bent her down on her knees or when she is the angriest woman on Earth, she is not a murderer. All she wants is justice. Justice for her and her family. Justice for her son who died because she wasn't there when he got sick. Justice for her rights to be a woman and a mother. She isn't the bravest person in the world and often does things before she thinks well, but her heart is pure. She loves her family, her mother, her brother, she loves her little boy who died, she loves her partner, Scar. And she would do anything for them, anything! She knows one thing, justice is on her side, and the real culprits have to pay for the crime she didn't commit.
Starting the journey with The Madam is a real roller coaster. From the bloody sheets in the hotel room, through the bars of the prison cells, to the boat of the local mob, the author takes you side by side with the woman who has nothing to loose. Jaime Raven has written a story full of tension, adrenalin, and emotions.
So if you are a fan of Hugh Fraser's „Harm“, this is the perfect read for you.
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