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The Girl At The Bar
Rebecca, a brilliant cancer researcher, disappears after a one-night stand with a neurotic man with a questionable past.
Her sudden disappearance in the midst of a high-stakes quest to cure cancer between two rival billionaires sets into motion an inexplicable chain of events as the bodies start to pile up.
No one knows why she disappeared. The race to find answers ensnares everyone around her, one of whom is a deeply disturbed psychopath lurking in the shadows.
Is Rebecca still alive? What happened to her? Who did it? And why? Questions about her vex everyone looking for answers. No one can be trusted and no one is above suspicion...
Her sudden disappearance in the midst of a high-stakes quest to cure cancer between two rival billionaires sets into motion an inexplicable chain of events as the bodies start to pile up.
No one knows why she disappeared. The race to find answers ensnares everyone around her, one of whom is a deeply disturbed psychopath lurking in the shadows.
Is Rebecca still alive? What happened to her? Who did it? And why? Questions about her vex everyone looking for answers. No one can be trusted and no one is above suspicion...
390 pages, ebook
First published February 1, 2017
3 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Nash
1 book174 followersFOREWORD CLARION REVIEW, 4 STARS
This is a refreshing thriller, with a compassionate protagonist and a complex set of crimes to solve.
Prepare for a roller-coaster ride of a thriller: Nicholas Nash’s The Girl at the Bar mixes a beautiful woman, an unemployed Wall Streeter, cancer research, and long-buried secrets together in a novel that zooms along at just the right speed.
Ragnar Johnson is fired from his Wall Street firm over his part in a quick money-making plan and stops into his favorite bar for some liquid consolation. There, he meets the intelligent and beautiful Rebecca; they strike up a conversation, talk for hours, and she goes home with him. When he wakes up the next morning with memories of a wonderful evening, Rebecca’s gone, leaving only her bra behind. He’s not exactly sure how to take the gesture, but hope flickers in him nonetheless.
Soon after, the NYPD sends detectives to his apartment to ask about his evening guest. Rebecca’s been reported missing, Ragnar seems to be the last person to have seen her before she disappeared, and he’s now a suspect. Rebecca left a deep impression on him, and he starts his own investigation. The more he learns about her, the more he’s driven to find her, and his intelligence and career knowledge in analysis give him the tools to do so.
The Girl at the Bar is a near-future thriller, featuring advancements from current technology in areas of cancer research and computer programming. Excitement and detail run high.
Characters are adeptly constructed; none do anything beyond their established behaviors, and backstories, movements, and thoughts are all well plotted. Distinguishing features—as with Ragnar, who has difficulties with speaking—help to differentiate characters from one another. The variety and number of characters in The Girl at the Bar are well balanced, offering a wide range of personalities without resorting to stereotypes as well as providing multiple information sources for solving the crimes in the story.
Some character traits stretch credulity, as with Ragnar’s mental health diagnosis, which would likely have made his Wall Street work much more difficult. Ragnar’s compassion and willingness to help others compel him to action very effectively.
This is a thriller that reveals its progressions consistently and at all the right times, maintaining the guessing game until the very end. The structure is tight without being spare, and the story moves through time well. Flashbacks are judiciously used, and the final scene revealing the key element gives an elegantly simple resolution with the revelation of one name.
The Girl at the Bar is a refreshing change from the glut of military and political thrillers more often seen in the genre. Atypical characters, a convoluted set of crimes, and its main character’s compassion set it apart in a very positive way.
https://www.forewordreviews.com/revie...
This is a refreshing thriller, with a compassionate protagonist and a complex set of crimes to solve.
Prepare for a roller-coaster ride of a thriller: Nicholas Nash’s The Girl at the Bar mixes a beautiful woman, an unemployed Wall Streeter, cancer research, and long-buried secrets together in a novel that zooms along at just the right speed.
Ragnar Johnson is fired from his Wall Street firm over his part in a quick money-making plan and stops into his favorite bar for some liquid consolation. There, he meets the intelligent and beautiful Rebecca; they strike up a conversation, talk for hours, and she goes home with him. When he wakes up the next morning with memories of a wonderful evening, Rebecca’s gone, leaving only her bra behind. He’s not exactly sure how to take the gesture, but hope flickers in him nonetheless.
Soon after, the NYPD sends detectives to his apartment to ask about his evening guest. Rebecca’s been reported missing, Ragnar seems to be the last person to have seen her before she disappeared, and he’s now a suspect. Rebecca left a deep impression on him, and he starts his own investigation. The more he learns about her, the more he’s driven to find her, and his intelligence and career knowledge in analysis give him the tools to do so.
The Girl at the Bar is a near-future thriller, featuring advancements from current technology in areas of cancer research and computer programming. Excitement and detail run high.
Characters are adeptly constructed; none do anything beyond their established behaviors, and backstories, movements, and thoughts are all well plotted. Distinguishing features—as with Ragnar, who has difficulties with speaking—help to differentiate characters from one another. The variety and number of characters in The Girl at the Bar are well balanced, offering a wide range of personalities without resorting to stereotypes as well as providing multiple information sources for solving the crimes in the story.
Some character traits stretch credulity, as with Ragnar’s mental health diagnosis, which would likely have made his Wall Street work much more difficult. Ragnar’s compassion and willingness to help others compel him to action very effectively.
This is a thriller that reveals its progressions consistently and at all the right times, maintaining the guessing game until the very end. The structure is tight without being spare, and the story moves through time well. Flashbacks are judiciously used, and the final scene revealing the key element gives an elegantly simple resolution with the revelation of one name.
The Girl at the Bar is a refreshing change from the glut of military and political thrillers more often seen in the genre. Atypical characters, a convoluted set of crimes, and its main character’s compassion set it apart in a very positive way.
https://www.forewordreviews.com/revie...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 2, 2017
Hot opening scene....one night stand. Rebecca only leaves her black bra behind and slips away before he wakes. No note or phone number.
Police come knocking on James door days later....Rebecca is missing. This gorgeous woman happens to be the 'most' brilliant medical scientist working on a single cancer vaccine - that would cure virtually 'any' cancer.
Intoxicatingly- intimate storytelling - page turning enjoyment!!!
Thank You Fireflies Publishing, Netgalley, and especially author *Nicholas Nash*...
THANKS NICK!!! You're a mensch!
Police come knocking on James door days later....Rebecca is missing. This gorgeous woman happens to be the 'most' brilliant medical scientist working on a single cancer vaccine - that would cure virtually 'any' cancer.
Intoxicatingly- intimate storytelling - page turning enjoyment!!!
Thank You Fireflies Publishing, Netgalley, and especially author *Nicholas Nash*...
THANKS NICK!!! You're a mensch!
February 5, 2017
This book may be categorized as a Sci-fi/Thriller, but the author found a way to play psychological warfare with me! Up was down, left was right. Even I didn't know who to trust!
The story starts off with a chance encounter between a beautiful woman, Rebecca, and a handsome man, Ragnar, in a bar. They immediately hit it off and their instant chemistry turns into a night of passion. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, he's sad to see that Rebecca's gone and he has no way of getting in contact with her. All too soon, the cops are at his door because Dr. Rebecca Chase has gone missing and he was the last one to see her.
Ragnar starts off as a suspect, but he's determined to find his girl, with or without police cooperation. As the cops start digging, their list of suspects grows longer. The body count is rising and suspects are dropping like flies.
I honestly didn't know who was behind it all and didn't bother to hazard a guess after I got it wrong the second time! Everyone had secrets and everyone had a motive. I was pleasantly shocked by the big reveal and I think other readers will be too. There is no doubt that the author keeps us guessing right to the end.
Nicholas Nash held me captivated with his mastery of words and this story refused to loose me from its grip until it reached its conclusion. It was obvious that he spent tremendous time on not only forming this story, but the research that went into it. I recommend this novel to fans of crime/sci-fi/mystery/thrillers.
Release Date: February 1, 2017
Genre: Sci-fi/Thriller
POV: Multiple - 3rd person
Steam: 1 out of 5
Series or standalone: Standalone
The story starts off with a chance encounter between a beautiful woman, Rebecca, and a handsome man, Ragnar, in a bar. They immediately hit it off and their instant chemistry turns into a night of passion. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, he's sad to see that Rebecca's gone and he has no way of getting in contact with her. All too soon, the cops are at his door because Dr. Rebecca Chase has gone missing and he was the last one to see her.
Ragnar starts off as a suspect, but he's determined to find his girl, with or without police cooperation. As the cops start digging, their list of suspects grows longer. The body count is rising and suspects are dropping like flies.
I honestly didn't know who was behind it all and didn't bother to hazard a guess after I got it wrong the second time! Everyone had secrets and everyone had a motive. I was pleasantly shocked by the big reveal and I think other readers will be too. There is no doubt that the author keeps us guessing right to the end.
Nicholas Nash held me captivated with his mastery of words and this story refused to loose me from its grip until it reached its conclusion. It was obvious that he spent tremendous time on not only forming this story, but the research that went into it. I recommend this novel to fans of crime/sci-fi/mystery/thrillers.
Release Date: February 1, 2017
Genre: Sci-fi/Thriller
POV: Multiple - 3rd person
Steam: 1 out of 5
Series or standalone: Standalone
June 16, 2017
Great premise: a brilliant and beautiful cancer researcher goes missing after a wild one night stand.
Nicholas Nash’s 2017 novel is one part thriller, one part suspense and two parts hip post-modern mystery. Nash’s language, style and dialogue are fresh and new and he tells a good story.
This book is actually sort of difficult to categorize, there were speculative fiction elements and Nash messes with the reader’s mind throughout. The author also keeps a good pace, this is a PAGE TURNER!
Not what I expected, well researched, smart and fun; a good read.
*** A free copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review
Nicholas Nash’s 2017 novel is one part thriller, one part suspense and two parts hip post-modern mystery. Nash’s language, style and dialogue are fresh and new and he tells a good story.
This book is actually sort of difficult to categorize, there were speculative fiction elements and Nash messes with the reader’s mind throughout. The author also keeps a good pace, this is a PAGE TURNER!
Not what I expected, well researched, smart and fun; a good read.
*** A free copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review
September 17, 2020
I was given the opportunity to review this book honestly before it was released.
Nicholas Nash seems to have done a lot of research on this book. He knows more about cancer than I know about anything in the health world. With that being said, I actually learned a lot about cancer and understand it a little more than I did starting out.
Nash did not just through facts at you though, that's what I loved. He actually explained things so when they are brought up again, you know exactly what he is talking about.
So, Rebecca is the girl that everyone stops and stares at.
She has the smarts, the looks and the personality to make just about anyone fall in love with her.
So when she disappears after a one-night stand with Ragnar and before her big speech about recent discoveries in the cure for cancer, people start to get frantic and worried about their beloved scientist.
So lots of people are pointing fingers at each other.
Could it be Ragnar, the one night stand and tradesman down on his luck? How about Nancy or Christy, the envious colleagues and jealous coworkers? How about her boss, Julia, who may want all the glory herself? Or the competition, Dr. Gupta, who Rebecca countlessly refused? There are so much people who could have a reason to hate her; but do they have a reason to hurt her? Or kill her?
Nash spent a lot of time putting history behind each person. I felt as if I knew more about them than I really felt necessary, but I love a good backstory as long as it is needed.
This is definitely and adult book. Can get a little graphic sexually and with murder scenes (lots of people do not make it to the end of the book). I thought it was a great read though and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good crime mystery.
Nicholas Nash seems to have done a lot of research on this book. He knows more about cancer than I know about anything in the health world. With that being said, I actually learned a lot about cancer and understand it a little more than I did starting out.
Nash did not just through facts at you though, that's what I loved. He actually explained things so when they are brought up again, you know exactly what he is talking about.
So, Rebecca is the girl that everyone stops and stares at.
She has the smarts, the looks and the personality to make just about anyone fall in love with her.
So when she disappears after a one-night stand with Ragnar and before her big speech about recent discoveries in the cure for cancer, people start to get frantic and worried about their beloved scientist.
So lots of people are pointing fingers at each other.
Could it be Ragnar, the one night stand and tradesman down on his luck? How about Nancy or Christy, the envious colleagues and jealous coworkers? How about her boss, Julia, who may want all the glory herself? Or the competition, Dr. Gupta, who Rebecca countlessly refused? There are so much people who could have a reason to hate her; but do they have a reason to hurt her? Or kill her?
Nash spent a lot of time putting history behind each person. I felt as if I knew more about them than I really felt necessary, but I love a good backstory as long as it is needed.
This is definitely and adult book. Can get a little graphic sexually and with murder scenes (lots of people do not make it to the end of the book). I thought it was a great read though and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good crime mystery.
March 26, 2017
Check out all of my reviews at: http://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
I absolutely love when I try a new author with no expectations and am completely absorbed into the story. THE GIRL AT THE BAR by Nicolas Nash is one of those mystery/thrillers that are rich in backgrounds, technical information and clues without bogging down the pace and keeps you guessing until the end.
Dr. Rebecca Chase is a brilliant cancer researcher in New York City for a medical conference. The night before she is to present, she meets Ragnar Johnson at her hotel bar. She leaves to go to his place for a one night stand. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, she is gone, not just from his apartment, but she has completely disappeared.
No one knows why she would disappear. Her research has placed her in the middle of a high-stakes battle between two mega pharma companies. Her personal life is a mess, but she is not the type of person to just walk away from her life’s work and career. After her disappearance, others associated with her start to be killed and there are so many different motives and agendas, you don’t know who to trust.
Ragnar is a brilliant out of work trader with social and psychiatric problems. Even though he knows he looks to be the prime suspect in Rebecca’s disappearance, he can’t stay uninvolved. He and his tech expert/hacker friend, Eddie chase clues. As he works the case, he is being followed by Raoul Perez who heads up security for Atticus Biopharma and was a NYC detective previously. You also have a competent team of detectives, Timothy and Roberta, who we follow as they work the case.
During the story, you are introduced to an entity that just calls itself “the void”. It is never completely satisfied or filled for long. You realize this is the mind of the kidnapper/killer and the way it describes itself is extremely chilling.
There are so many characters that have a variety of motives that I was continually changing my mind on who was the guilty party and why. Even with all the moving parts, I was never confused on who was who. All of the characters were so interesting and realistic that I just had to keep turning the pages. I love this type of mystery as it takes you step by step and lets you think and discover along with the detectives and Ragnar. Please note: There is a moment of graphic violence at the climax. I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel and will be looking for more from this author.
Thanks very much to Fireflies Publishing LLC and Net Galley for allowing me to read an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was my pleasure.
I absolutely love when I try a new author with no expectations and am completely absorbed into the story. THE GIRL AT THE BAR by Nicolas Nash is one of those mystery/thrillers that are rich in backgrounds, technical information and clues without bogging down the pace and keeps you guessing until the end.
Dr. Rebecca Chase is a brilliant cancer researcher in New York City for a medical conference. The night before she is to present, she meets Ragnar Johnson at her hotel bar. She leaves to go to his place for a one night stand. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, she is gone, not just from his apartment, but she has completely disappeared.
No one knows why she would disappear. Her research has placed her in the middle of a high-stakes battle between two mega pharma companies. Her personal life is a mess, but she is not the type of person to just walk away from her life’s work and career. After her disappearance, others associated with her start to be killed and there are so many different motives and agendas, you don’t know who to trust.
Ragnar is a brilliant out of work trader with social and psychiatric problems. Even though he knows he looks to be the prime suspect in Rebecca’s disappearance, he can’t stay uninvolved. He and his tech expert/hacker friend, Eddie chase clues. As he works the case, he is being followed by Raoul Perez who heads up security for Atticus Biopharma and was a NYC detective previously. You also have a competent team of detectives, Timothy and Roberta, who we follow as they work the case.
During the story, you are introduced to an entity that just calls itself “the void”. It is never completely satisfied or filled for long. You realize this is the mind of the kidnapper/killer and the way it describes itself is extremely chilling.
There are so many characters that have a variety of motives that I was continually changing my mind on who was the guilty party and why. Even with all the moving parts, I was never confused on who was who. All of the characters were so interesting and realistic that I just had to keep turning the pages. I love this type of mystery as it takes you step by step and lets you think and discover along with the detectives and Ragnar. Please note: There is a moment of graphic violence at the climax. I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel and will be looking for more from this author.
Thanks very much to Fireflies Publishing LLC and Net Galley for allowing me to read an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was my pleasure.
May 22, 2017
The Girl at the bar is a near future thriller featuring advancements from current technology in areas of cancer research and computer programming.
The excitement runs high throughout the story, and Nicholas Nash has created characters that are well constructed and perfectly fitted the plot, plus they are very believable.
This is a thriller that reveals itself consistently at the right times, whilst also keeping me guessing all the way to the very end.
The story moves well through time, and at a good pace and flashbacks are well used.
This is a very easy read, with some blood and gore! Nicholas, kept the intrigue and suspense going right to the final chapter, which turned out to be quite a revelation!
I really enjoyed reading, ‘The Girl at the Bar’ which fits its genre perfectly. A refreshing thriller, with an intricate set of crimes to solve. I would definite recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Reviewed by Linda on www.whisperingstories.com
The excitement runs high throughout the story, and Nicholas Nash has created characters that are well constructed and perfectly fitted the plot, plus they are very believable.
This is a thriller that reveals itself consistently at the right times, whilst also keeping me guessing all the way to the very end.
The story moves well through time, and at a good pace and flashbacks are well used.
This is a very easy read, with some blood and gore! Nicholas, kept the intrigue and suspense going right to the final chapter, which turned out to be quite a revelation!
I really enjoyed reading, ‘The Girl at the Bar’ which fits its genre perfectly. A refreshing thriller, with an intricate set of crimes to solve. I would definite recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Reviewed by Linda on www.whisperingstories.com
April 18, 2017
This was a great story,following three sets of people trying to solve the same set of crimes gave you different perspectives on the outcome.Every time you think you know who it is something else happens to make you change your mind.If you enjoy suspense this is your book.I will look for more books by this author.I received this book free as part of goodreads giveaways.
February 10, 2017
I would highly recommend this book!! Loved it!! Grabbed me at the fist page and kept me guessing! Loveable characters and riveting plot!! Read it!!
March 7, 2017
For my suspense/thriller fans out there, let me tell you about The Girl at the Bar by Nicholas Nash! An out of work trader named Ragnar sees and meets the beautiful Rebecca in a hotel bar. Their chemistry is instant and after talking about everything, including her role as a cancer researcher, Rebecca decides not to fight the desire between them and goes home with Ragnar. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, he finds that Rebecca is gone and he is kicking himself because they didn’t exchange numbers. However, it’s not long until the police show up at his door inquiring about his relationship with Rebecca and he learns that she has been reported missing. Soon there are several people involved other than the police that looking into her disappearance and/or considered suspects including rival pharmaceutical CEO’s and fellow researchers, Rebecca’s ex-fiance, an ex-cop and an ex-boyfriend and fellow researcher. After initial questioning, Ragnar can’t get his mind off of Rebecca and her disappearance. He questions himself, wondering if he did something and blacked out, but also starts doing his own research and finding his own leads into her disappearance. Lines are blurred and several paths cross one another as everyone tries to figure out where Rebecca is, if she is still alive and most importantly, who is behind her disappearance.
I loved this novel in that it wonderfully represents a “whodunnit” mystery. There are so many players involved and so many sub-plots related to each person that at times, it almost makes your head spin. Poor Ragnar was fired after an on-going cover-up trading job cost people millions of dollars. He now lives alone, unable to find work and has few friends or even acquaintances. Although he keeps having these fabulous “aha moments” where he is able to gain some leads on Rebecca’s disappearance, he also ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time frequently throughout the novel. An old co-worker of Ragnar’s named Eddie is very active in the story with his expert IT skills for research and putting together the pieces of the puzzle as Ragnar gives them to him. His character is brilliant and adds a lot to the overall plot. The rival pharmaceutical CEO’s Julia and Matheus both claim to want to help find Rebecca, especially Julia that likens Rebecca as a child to her. Julia has Rebecca on her side and with Atticus Pharmaceuticals, but Matheus has always wanted Rebecca to join Faust Pharmaceuticals, along with Rebecca’s ex-boyfriend and researcher, Gustav. Other researchers Nancy and Christy are also relevant, especially Nancy, who has always been jealous of Julia and Rebecca’s close friendship. Then there is also the famous researcher Dr. Gupta, who was basically left behind by Rebecca and her breakthroughs and blames her for stealing his early research in finding the cure for cancer. Basically – there are a lot of people connected to Rebecca, the cancer research, and each other – all of whom could be responsible for her missing or become the next target.
The kidnapper makes several appearances in the novel prior to being revealed, but those moments refer to “the void,” as a void that needs to be filled but it’s referred to as a living thing. There are some weird, freaky things that go on in the void’s “head,” but it all just adds to the suspense and mystery as you read and try to figure out who are good guys, who are bad guys, and who has stabbed who in the back along the way. I must admit that I did not have any idea who the void was and was shocked once it was revealed. I love a mystery that keeps me guessing and re-guessing the entire time, and this is definitely one of those novels! The novel was very fast-paced and held my attention, although at times I felt bogged down by some of the cancer research lingo and back stories, but after finishing the novel and reflecting back on it, I feel like it mostly added to the plot and suspense. I also loved that this was told from several points of view. Almost everyone that is relevant in the story speaks from their point of view at some point or the other, giving the reader a thorough glimpse of what’s going on in their head, while still wondering if they are the bad guy.
Was this the best mystery/suspense thriller I’ve ever read? No. But, it was damned good and pulled me in from the start. I highly, highly recommend The Girl at the Bar if you enjoy this genre. It’s a crazy, wild ride but is very entertaining and will keep you guessing until the end!
*Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this novel in that it wonderfully represents a “whodunnit” mystery. There are so many players involved and so many sub-plots related to each person that at times, it almost makes your head spin. Poor Ragnar was fired after an on-going cover-up trading job cost people millions of dollars. He now lives alone, unable to find work and has few friends or even acquaintances. Although he keeps having these fabulous “aha moments” where he is able to gain some leads on Rebecca’s disappearance, he also ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time frequently throughout the novel. An old co-worker of Ragnar’s named Eddie is very active in the story with his expert IT skills for research and putting together the pieces of the puzzle as Ragnar gives them to him. His character is brilliant and adds a lot to the overall plot. The rival pharmaceutical CEO’s Julia and Matheus both claim to want to help find Rebecca, especially Julia that likens Rebecca as a child to her. Julia has Rebecca on her side and with Atticus Pharmaceuticals, but Matheus has always wanted Rebecca to join Faust Pharmaceuticals, along with Rebecca’s ex-boyfriend and researcher, Gustav. Other researchers Nancy and Christy are also relevant, especially Nancy, who has always been jealous of Julia and Rebecca’s close friendship. Then there is also the famous researcher Dr. Gupta, who was basically left behind by Rebecca and her breakthroughs and blames her for stealing his early research in finding the cure for cancer. Basically – there are a lot of people connected to Rebecca, the cancer research, and each other – all of whom could be responsible for her missing or become the next target.
The kidnapper makes several appearances in the novel prior to being revealed, but those moments refer to “the void,” as a void that needs to be filled but it’s referred to as a living thing. There are some weird, freaky things that go on in the void’s “head,” but it all just adds to the suspense and mystery as you read and try to figure out who are good guys, who are bad guys, and who has stabbed who in the back along the way. I must admit that I did not have any idea who the void was and was shocked once it was revealed. I love a mystery that keeps me guessing and re-guessing the entire time, and this is definitely one of those novels! The novel was very fast-paced and held my attention, although at times I felt bogged down by some of the cancer research lingo and back stories, but after finishing the novel and reflecting back on it, I feel like it mostly added to the plot and suspense. I also loved that this was told from several points of view. Almost everyone that is relevant in the story speaks from their point of view at some point or the other, giving the reader a thorough glimpse of what’s going on in their head, while still wondering if they are the bad guy.
Was this the best mystery/suspense thriller I’ve ever read? No. But, it was damned good and pulled me in from the start. I highly, highly recommend The Girl at the Bar if you enjoy this genre. It’s a crazy, wild ride but is very entertaining and will keep you guessing until the end!
*Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2017
I just finished reading this book. I was blown away by it. It was such a great mystery, with so many twists and turns. I read at every chance I got but I didn't want the book to end. I would think I had it figured out then the person I thought was behind it would be killed. I did not figure it out until the book told me who done it and why. There was a lot of background information about their research, what they had done and what they hoped to accomplish. But it did not drag the story down or make it boring. I found it very interesting. I would have loved for it to give a little more information, like how exactly those 3 people were tied together, other than the obvious. I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read anything else wrote by Nicholas Nash.
May 27, 2017
I won this book in a giveaway, and this is my honest review.
I loved this story and how it was put together! The characters were fairly realistic and likable, and the author kept me on my toes trying to figure out what was really going on with Rebecca, the brilliant cancer researcher who goes missing after a one-night stand with Ragnar, who she just met at a bar that night. I don't like to include spoilers, so I won't go into more detail, but the story kept me engaged all the way through.
Now for the bad. The writing felt really unnatural in spots, and I encountered typos and punctuation errors all over the place. There wasn't any indication in the giveaway description or on the book itself that this copy was an unedited proof, but it really needed some serious editing. As I already mentioned, it was a great story, but the editing issues were very distracting at times. Put a good editor on it, and I would easily give this book four stars, possibly even five.
Some of the content is pretty graphic, which came across as being mostly for shock value. Maybe a good editor could help that feel more natural as well. It's relatively tame for the most part, but a few spots just jump way out there and feel a bit out of place. I think toning those down a bit might help the reader focus on the story instead of feeling like they've been slapped in the face out of nowhere.
In the end I really, really liked this story, but due to the serious need for editing I feel like I can only give it three stars. I still enjoyed it a lot.
I loved this story and how it was put together! The characters were fairly realistic and likable, and the author kept me on my toes trying to figure out what was really going on with Rebecca, the brilliant cancer researcher who goes missing after a one-night stand with Ragnar, who she just met at a bar that night. I don't like to include spoilers, so I won't go into more detail, but the story kept me engaged all the way through.
Now for the bad. The writing felt really unnatural in spots, and I encountered typos and punctuation errors all over the place. There wasn't any indication in the giveaway description or on the book itself that this copy was an unedited proof, but it really needed some serious editing. As I already mentioned, it was a great story, but the editing issues were very distracting at times. Put a good editor on it, and I would easily give this book four stars, possibly even five.
Some of the content is pretty graphic, which came across as being mostly for shock value. Maybe a good editor could help that feel more natural as well. It's relatively tame for the most part, but a few spots just jump way out there and feel a bit out of place. I think toning those down a bit might help the reader focus on the story instead of feeling like they've been slapped in the face out of nowhere.
In the end I really, really liked this story, but due to the serious need for editing I feel like I can only give it three stars. I still enjoyed it a lot.
February 14, 2017
This book was a roller coaster ride for me. I love mystery/thriller books and I can usually figure out the ending after reading so many of these types of books. That was not the case with this book though. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, my mind would race to another possibility. This was so much fun to read and I highly recommend it!
April 2, 2017
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, just wow! I have been wanting to read this book since I read the description. Nicholas Nash did not disappoint! From the very start the story hooks you in and you do not want to put it down.
What I loved mostly about this book is that I thought I had the whole case figured out, but I was so wrong! The way the writer weaves the story really throws you off.
My only complaint was that there were too many grammatical errors. I received an ARC, I hope that those were corrected in the final version.
Will definitely read this author again.
Wow, just wow! I have been wanting to read this book since I read the description. Nicholas Nash did not disappoint! From the very start the story hooks you in and you do not want to put it down.
What I loved mostly about this book is that I thought I had the whole case figured out, but I was so wrong! The way the writer weaves the story really throws you off.
My only complaint was that there were too many grammatical errors. I received an ARC, I hope that those were corrected in the final version.
Will definitely read this author again.
December 19, 2016
I was given a copy of The Girl At The Bar in exchange of an honest review. Wow, this book was excellent! The author provides a very interesting plot based on cancer research and the disappearance of one of the researchers. I loved the way the story was written with s lot of twist snd turns that kept me on my toes trying to figure out who the ghost was. Action packed! Mr. Nash is a very talented writer with a gift of story telling. I can't wait to read his nexr book!
February 3, 2017
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review.
This was an awesome thriller filled with edge of your seat suspense and page turning action. I was hooked right away and devoured every word until the end. Definitely a recommended must read.
This was an awesome thriller filled with edge of your seat suspense and page turning action. I was hooked right away and devoured every word until the end. Definitely a recommended must read.
June 1, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGallery.
Interesting suspenseful story combines with interesting facts about the field of cancer research. Who done it meets scientific journal.
Interesting suspenseful story combines with interesting facts about the field of cancer research. Who done it meets scientific journal.
February 4, 2017
I received this book for free for an honest review.
Ok off the bat I have to say I had no idea what I was getting into reading this book and I had absolutely no preference for mystery/thriller. So naturally I was very hesitant reading this but the first page completely captivated me. Ranger, former trader, falls right next to Rebecca, a cancer researcher, who's in New York City for a conference. As the night turns from innocent flirting to a full on one night stand, Ranger's fun night goes from great to dreadful when he becomes a person of interest in Rebecca's disappearance the next day. He and countless others (like the police) are looking for Rebecca and there seems to be lot of things getting in the way like exes, dead people, revenge, and plenty of other obstacles.
Nash has completely change my outlook on plot twist. If your reading this and you think you know what's going on or who really kidnapped Rebecca I'm here for you and I'm sorry but you are sadly mistaken. I suggest just getting the book and make it to the end as soon as you can. I also encourage screaming into a pillow frequently. All in all I think the story and plot was great and left me wanting more and more and some more after that. Usually I recommend book by comparing them to another author's work but since I don't read crime/thriller books the only thing I can say this is parallel to is the hit tv show Serects and Lies on ABC.
The mystery, the suspense, and the brain teasing are just part of this alluring tale. It doesn't matter if you like this genre or not, I'm proof of that. Go read it now. I'm just patiently waiting for Nash's next masterpiece.
Ok off the bat I have to say I had no idea what I was getting into reading this book and I had absolutely no preference for mystery/thriller. So naturally I was very hesitant reading this but the first page completely captivated me. Ranger, former trader, falls right next to Rebecca, a cancer researcher, who's in New York City for a conference. As the night turns from innocent flirting to a full on one night stand, Ranger's fun night goes from great to dreadful when he becomes a person of interest in Rebecca's disappearance the next day. He and countless others (like the police) are looking for Rebecca and there seems to be lot of things getting in the way like exes, dead people, revenge, and plenty of other obstacles.
Nash has completely change my outlook on plot twist. If your reading this and you think you know what's going on or who really kidnapped Rebecca I'm here for you and I'm sorry but you are sadly mistaken. I suggest just getting the book and make it to the end as soon as you can. I also encourage screaming into a pillow frequently. All in all I think the story and plot was great and left me wanting more and more and some more after that. Usually I recommend book by comparing them to another author's work but since I don't read crime/thriller books the only thing I can say this is parallel to is the hit tv show Serects and Lies on ABC.
The mystery, the suspense, and the brain teasing are just part of this alluring tale. It doesn't matter if you like this genre or not, I'm proof of that. Go read it now. I'm just patiently waiting for Nash's next masterpiece.
February 1, 2017
A surprisingly good read if you are the sort who loves edge-of-the-seat thrillers. The Girl At The Bar begins with a gripping, seductive scenario with characters that get under your skin and behave in puzzling, unpredictable ways. Your cuppa has barely finished when Rebecca, a brilliant and stunning cancer researcher goes missing and her bipolar boyfriend Ragnar, from a single night of wild passion, finds himself staring at a murder charge. The only thing that saves him is the fact that there is no body so far, despite the discovery of her blood soaked dress. At stake is a revolutionary cancer cure, bitter pharma feuds, a deep dive into the fascinating and competitive world of medical research, lovable hackers, a psychotic killer and more —all unfolding at a rapid, unputdownable pace in bold and beautiful New York.
Nicholas Nash is a skilled storyteller, openly inviting you to guess whodunit, page after intriguing page. Yet the truth eludes the sharp reader even as the machinations of a twisted mind are laid bare. By book’s end, I came away understanding a whole lot more about cancer thanks to Nash’s extensive research and ability to explain complex things simply . All in all, an excellent read – delighted to have discovered a really good writer in the thriller genre. I had the privilege of downloading a preview copy from the author.
Nicholas Nash is a skilled storyteller, openly inviting you to guess whodunit, page after intriguing page. Yet the truth eludes the sharp reader even as the machinations of a twisted mind are laid bare. By book’s end, I came away understanding a whole lot more about cancer thanks to Nash’s extensive research and ability to explain complex things simply . All in all, an excellent read – delighted to have discovered a really good writer in the thriller genre. I had the privilege of downloading a preview copy from the author.
February 7, 2017
First one I read by Nicolas. Contemporary one set mostly in New York and a few scenes in Los Angeles This is a great great story that has you by the throat from the first page . There is a lot of research that Nicolas must have done . Everything is so real life . Everything just falls into place . This story is about murder , revenge and one sick mind that only sees what it wants . Hero is Ragnar . Heroine is Rebecca.
Ragnar spots Rebecca at a bar . They both hit it off . They both start talking about what they do . Ragnar is unemployed. Rebecca works for a pharmaceutical company that tries to help Cancer patients. Rebecca's company does research with how cancer reacts to certain drugs . Rebecca and Ragnar have a night of hot steamy fun .
When Ragnar wakes up the next morning Rebecca is gone . It's nor your typical one that the lady leaves before the morning of shame ..every trace of Rebecca is gone ... no answer on her cell phone . Rebecca doesn't attend the function. She doesn't go back to her hotel room .
The police get involved and they believe that Ragnar did some illegal funny things to Rebecca.
It's a need to read story because this is a very deep story
Ragnar spots Rebecca at a bar . They both hit it off . They both start talking about what they do . Ragnar is unemployed. Rebecca works for a pharmaceutical company that tries to help Cancer patients. Rebecca's company does research with how cancer reacts to certain drugs . Rebecca and Ragnar have a night of hot steamy fun .
When Ragnar wakes up the next morning Rebecca is gone . It's nor your typical one that the lady leaves before the morning of shame ..every trace of Rebecca is gone ... no answer on her cell phone . Rebecca doesn't attend the function. She doesn't go back to her hotel room .
The police get involved and they believe that Ragnar did some illegal funny things to Rebecca.
It's a need to read story because this is a very deep story
February 6, 2017
This was a great read. Action packed and full of mystery from the outset. We meet Rebecca, the mysterious girl at the bar and witness her steamy encounter with Ragnar. And then she goes missing. In my mind, Ragnar had nothing to do with this, but he comes under suspicion from the start. Rebecca is one of the world's top cancer researchers, on the verge of a major breakthrough. Is her disappearance linked to the rivalry between her pharmaceutical company, run by the enigmatic Julia, and their major competitors? Staff poaching appears to be the norm, has this been taken to extremes? Ragnar has recently lost his job in the world of trading, under a cloud - is this connected? We don't know. There's a tight knit set of characters and I spent most of the book trying to figure it out. Nobody is safe- as more victims appeared I became more confused as each of my theories was blown away! The police aren't the sharpest, but they avoid sticking to their early conclusions. And there are at least three investigations going on - who will reach the right conclusion first? And will this be a murder investigation or missing person? An ending I didn't see coming and a wholly satisfying read.
May 23, 2017
The Girl at the Bar
Good Reads Review, 4 stars
Thank you Netgalley, Fireflies Publishing, and author Nicholas Nash for a copy of this book for my honest review.
A chance meeting at a bar and a one night stand sets the stage for this page-turning and all consuming novel. Ragnar meets Rebecca and the chemistry leaves the two in the throws of a steamy night. When Rebecca leaves the Ragnar’s bed in the morning, she slips away leaving only a trail of a single black bra. The cops soon show up on the door of Ragnar home….Dr. Rebecca Chase, a brilliant medical marvel is missing. Where is Rebecca Chase? Is she hurt? Is she dead? Who would possibly want to see ill-will towards this medical genius about to cure cancer?
This book was a well researched crime/medical novel. There are many sub plots to this story that makes this novel a compulsive read. I highly recommend this entertaining novel that keeps you second-guessing yourself until the end.
Good Reads Review, 4 stars
Thank you Netgalley, Fireflies Publishing, and author Nicholas Nash for a copy of this book for my honest review.
A chance meeting at a bar and a one night stand sets the stage for this page-turning and all consuming novel. Ragnar meets Rebecca and the chemistry leaves the two in the throws of a steamy night. When Rebecca leaves the Ragnar’s bed in the morning, she slips away leaving only a trail of a single black bra. The cops soon show up on the door of Ragnar home….Dr. Rebecca Chase, a brilliant medical marvel is missing. Where is Rebecca Chase? Is she hurt? Is she dead? Who would possibly want to see ill-will towards this medical genius about to cure cancer?
This book was a well researched crime/medical novel. There are many sub plots to this story that makes this novel a compulsive read. I highly recommend this entertaining novel that keeps you second-guessing yourself until the end.
February 9, 2017
Wow, this is such a fascinating book. This book is so full of twist and turns with a fast-paced plot. At no time could I figure out who was causing the bodies to pile up. This is a real page turner and it was hard to put down. The characters were well developed and likeable, especially Ragnar who was my favorite. I think Author Nicholas Nash did a fantastic job on his first novel and I look forward to his next one.
Want to read
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April 22, 2017
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. What a thrill ride! Once you start this, you will not want to stop reading. Rebecca has a one night stand with a guy she meets at a bar. Then she disappears. Through most of the book you will not know if she is alive or dead. We do learn she is an incredible scientist and doing some too secret research on a cure for cancer. There are many players in this story, and I have to say I never suspected the villain. Excellent writing and highly recommend. Unputdownable!
March 21, 2017
Rebecca is a high-flying cancer research scientist, one of the most sought-after minds in the field. Ragnar is a down-on-his-luck ex-trader battling bipolar disorder, hanging out in bars in between job searches. When Rebecca goes missing shortly after their one-night stand, Ragnar becomes a person of interest overnight – and determined to find Rebecca, even if it gets him arrested. However, when the body count starts growing and the press gets involved, the stakes only get higher...
The Girl at the Bar is a police thriller, where the evidence is deceptive at best and the origins of the crime are buried and forgotten in decades-old events. The plot is plausible and twisty, and although those who like to try and follow the breadcrumbs of evidence through the plot and figure out the criminal themselves are going to find slim pickings, the final revelation is nicely handled. The pacing is also largely good, and the characters are refreshingly original, with perfectly imperfect motivations. The things keeping this book from a higher rating were mostly technical; there are editing errors apparent throughout, and a critique to polish some occasional awkwardnesses out of the delivery would have made this story a top-rank read. Definitely something that crime fiction fans will enjoy.
Reviewed for By Rite of Word.
The Girl at the Bar is a police thriller, where the evidence is deceptive at best and the origins of the crime are buried and forgotten in decades-old events. The plot is plausible and twisty, and although those who like to try and follow the breadcrumbs of evidence through the plot and figure out the criminal themselves are going to find slim pickings, the final revelation is nicely handled. The pacing is also largely good, and the characters are refreshingly original, with perfectly imperfect motivations. The things keeping this book from a higher rating were mostly technical; there are editing errors apparent throughout, and a critique to polish some occasional awkwardnesses out of the delivery would have made this story a top-rank read. Definitely something that crime fiction fans will enjoy.
Reviewed for By Rite of Word.
March 1, 2018
This was a great book. I liked it. hank you for sharing it with me.
December 31, 2021
** Disclaimer: This book was provided by the Author and Quill and Ink Tours in exchange for an honest review**
Well.. well... where do I start..??? The Girl at The Bar is not a book for the faint of heart. It does have some adult themes and as you can imagine some gruesome crime scenes as it is a Psychological Thriller but I could not put this book down.
First off lets talk about the characters.. Ragnar is such a sweetie and you definitely feel for him. He is head over heals from the first time he sees Rebecca and will do anything to find her.. This is insta-love (on his part for sure) but the story doesn't really play out like a normal Insta- love romance.
The cops - Timothy - I get the feeling that he is a decent guy and I kinda like him. Roberta - No... just no.. I dislike her so much that I want to reach through the book and slap her round the face a few times!!
Raoul - seems like a loner type. Private investigator , rough ex cop with a soft side.
The other characters that appear throughout the book are definitely shifty and you do start to wonder "who dunnit?"
Nash has a way of allowing you to get to know all the characters whilst still staying on track with the main story , which is finding Rebecca. Is she dead?? is she alive?? who took her?? love the transition between past and present. It definitely gives you a better feel for the characters, the storyline and how they got to that moment where Rebecca went missing.
The list of suspects is endless. Personally, maybe because I have watched so many crime dramas and films in my life I kinda had an idea about who it was but had no reason why it would be them, which really confused me. The way Nash builds suspense, gives you a little bit of a teaser, and then switches it up will definitely keep you gripped and on the edge of your seats.
Overall, great characters, great storyline, very well written, fast paced, full of suspense and questions throughout. A perfect example of what a Psychological Thriller should be. I would 100% recommend this book.
This misfit gives The Girl at The Bar a 5 out of 5
Well.. well... where do I start..??? The Girl at The Bar is not a book for the faint of heart. It does have some adult themes and as you can imagine some gruesome crime scenes as it is a Psychological Thriller but I could not put this book down.
First off lets talk about the characters.. Ragnar is such a sweetie and you definitely feel for him. He is head over heals from the first time he sees Rebecca and will do anything to find her.. This is insta-love (on his part for sure) but the story doesn't really play out like a normal Insta- love romance.
The cops - Timothy - I get the feeling that he is a decent guy and I kinda like him. Roberta - No... just no.. I dislike her so much that I want to reach through the book and slap her round the face a few times!!
Raoul - seems like a loner type. Private investigator , rough ex cop with a soft side.
The other characters that appear throughout the book are definitely shifty and you do start to wonder "who dunnit?"
Nash has a way of allowing you to get to know all the characters whilst still staying on track with the main story , which is finding Rebecca. Is she dead?? is she alive?? who took her?? love the transition between past and present. It definitely gives you a better feel for the characters, the storyline and how they got to that moment where Rebecca went missing.
The list of suspects is endless. Personally, maybe because I have watched so many crime dramas and films in my life I kinda had an idea about who it was but had no reason why it would be them, which really confused me. The way Nash builds suspense, gives you a little bit of a teaser, and then switches it up will definitely keep you gripped and on the edge of your seats.
Overall, great characters, great storyline, very well written, fast paced, full of suspense and questions throughout. A perfect example of what a Psychological Thriller should be. I would 100% recommend this book.
This misfit gives The Girl at The Bar a 5 out of 5
June 6, 2017
GNAB I received a free electronic copy of this novel from Netgalley, Nicholas Nash, and Fireflies Publishing (Indie) in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all, for sharing your hard work with me.
This was an interesting read. I had a hard time getting to it because of the title, but I can recommend it highly to mystery readers. Once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. Rebecca, the girl Ragnar picked up at the bar, is a beautiful bioscientist working at a private lab on a cancer cure that involves a vaccine that boosts and intensifies the bodies immune system and directs them at cancer cells - any cancer cells. She is kidnapped leaving Ragnar's apartment in the small hours of the morning as he sleeps. This places him at the head of the list of possible suspects, but because of her personal life and her work the list is very long. And because of his stubborn lack of faith in justice per say, Ragnar uses his wits and connections to begin his own investigation into Rebecca's disappearance.
The story line is good, and well played. There are glitches in the telling of the tale, repetitions, awkward change's of pace here and there, typos - all things that experience will smooth away. I will put Nicholas Nash on my watch list.
Pub date Feb 1, 2017
This was an interesting read. I had a hard time getting to it because of the title, but I can recommend it highly to mystery readers. Once I got into it, I couldn't put it down. Rebecca, the girl Ragnar picked up at the bar, is a beautiful bioscientist working at a private lab on a cancer cure that involves a vaccine that boosts and intensifies the bodies immune system and directs them at cancer cells - any cancer cells. She is kidnapped leaving Ragnar's apartment in the small hours of the morning as he sleeps. This places him at the head of the list of possible suspects, but because of her personal life and her work the list is very long. And because of his stubborn lack of faith in justice per say, Ragnar uses his wits and connections to begin his own investigation into Rebecca's disappearance.
The story line is good, and well played. There are glitches in the telling of the tale, repetitions, awkward change's of pace here and there, typos - all things that experience will smooth away. I will put Nicholas Nash on my watch list.
Pub date Feb 1, 2017
February 28, 2018
This is a first rate page turner! I stayed up way past my bedtime because I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep until I knew the outcome of the story. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the author threw in some new information and I realized that I was totally wrong. I had no idea who the 'bad guy' was until I read the name in the book and even then I wasn't sure if it was correct or just another red herring.
The book starts with a one night stand between Rebecca, a brilliant cancer researcher and Ragnar, an unemployed trader who is very intelligent and a bit neurotic. When Ragnar wakes up in the morning, Rebecca is gone and he has no way to get in touch with her. Not too many hours later, the police come knocking at this door because Rebecca is missing and he was the last known person to see her alive. After that it's a race to find Rebecca or her body. There are several groups of people looking for her and as the number of dead bodies increases, you just don't know who is responsible.
I definitely enjoyed this novel and the second guessing that it caused right up to the very end.
The book starts with a one night stand between Rebecca, a brilliant cancer researcher and Ragnar, an unemployed trader who is very intelligent and a bit neurotic. When Ragnar wakes up in the morning, Rebecca is gone and he has no way to get in touch with her. Not too many hours later, the police come knocking at this door because Rebecca is missing and he was the last known person to see her alive. After that it's a race to find Rebecca or her body. There are several groups of people looking for her and as the number of dead bodies increases, you just don't know who is responsible.
I definitely enjoyed this novel and the second guessing that it caused right up to the very end.
March 14, 2017
This was a REALLY great book! I was grabbed from the very beginning and found myself quite unable to pull away and ended up reading this book in one night! There were so many plot twists that I was kept on my toes the entire time and never suspected the killer to be who it ended up being! The characters were well thought out and very likable with some real personalities that made them stand out from the rest. I loved that there was some realistic science about battling cancer, it gave the story an element of "realness". The author's writing was absolutely flawless and well executed with vivid details and a fast paced storyline that never had a dull moment. This was seriously one of the best mystery/crime thriller books that I've ever read and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
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