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The Lucky Ones
It was the happiest day of her life. Little did she know it was also the last. When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realises she is dealing with a serial killer―a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces. A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorising his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky. But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben. Happiness… and death . The Lucky Ones is the terrifying new thriller from the #1 Kindle bestselling author of Follow You Home and The Devil’s Work .
377 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2017
4150 people are currently reading
5382 people want to read
About the author
Mark Edwards
36 books5,907 followersMark Edwards writes psychological thrillers in which scary things happen to ordinary people.
He loves hearing from readers and always responds. Mark can be contacted in the following ways:
Email: mark@markedwardsauthor.com
Twitter @mredwards
Facebook/Instagram: @markedwardsauthor
You can download a free box set of 'Short Sharp Shockers' by visiting www.markedwardsauthor.com/free
Mark has sold over 5 million books since his first solo novel, The Magpies, was published in 2013 and has topped the bestseller lists numerous times. His other novels include Follow You Home, Here To Stay and The Psychopath Next Door. He has also published six books co-authored with Louise Voss. His next novel, The Wasp Trap, will be published in the UK/Australia in July 2025 and the US/Canada in September 2025.
Mark lives in the West Midlands, England, with his wife, their three children, two cats and a golden retriever.
He loves hearing from readers and always responds. Mark can be contacted in the following ways:
Email: mark@markedwardsauthor.com
Twitter @mredwards
Facebook/Instagram: @markedwardsauthor
You can download a free box set of 'Short Sharp Shockers' by visiting www.markedwardsauthor.com/free
Mark has sold over 5 million books since his first solo novel, The Magpies, was published in 2013 and has topped the bestseller lists numerous times. His other novels include Follow You Home, Here To Stay and The Psychopath Next Door. He has also published six books co-authored with Louise Voss. His next novel, The Wasp Trap, will be published in the UK/Australia in July 2025 and the US/Canada in September 2025.
Mark lives in the West Midlands, England, with his wife, their three children, two cats and a golden retriever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 793 reviews
May 28, 2017
Dear Mr. Edwards,
We meet once again, one year later. Every year you put a book out there for my reading buddy and me, daring us to outsmart you. You do realize we are getting to know you, don’t you? That gave us an advantage. We were up for the challenge, ready for anything you could throw us.
So, I have to admit your prologue is pretty stellar. It is divided into two parts, Ben’s part and a killer’s part. Ooh, double perspectives. Love it, especially when one of them is the baddie. Gives us a better chance to profile this guy, figure out who he is, and why he is the bastard he is. Probably a mistake on your part to give us this break.
Ben is a great guy. If I were into guys, I would wish to have a Ben for myself. Ben is not doing well though. He has an unhappy son Ollie, an estranged wife (foolish woman), and a terminally ill mum. And he has lost his job. You have not been kind to Ben, Mr. Edwards. The baddie seems to have had a crappy start to life, but don’t all the bad guys out there? This baddie is different though, and kudos to you for serving up a very peculiar psychopath. This guy is looking for some personal redemption. He also wants people to be happy and thinks he knows how to make that happen. Oh, and he feels it would be perfect for good, happy people to actually die happy. You are also making us kind of understand him, Mr. Edwards, but really, I kind of resent that. Makes me feel bad about myself, sympathizing with a killer.
Geez, this book is long, but it clips along pretty darn fast. How do you do that? Your shorty chapters help. So do all those bread crumbs, or should I say bread hunks, that you keep dropping. Wow, from nearly the start you were doling out little clues all over the place. In fact two thirds of the way through you were info dumping so fast and furiously, practically in loaves, I wondered what the heck you were saving for the final third of the story. Well, you were just withholding the best for last, weren’t you? I have to say you impressed me with that, Mister. And that plot! Holy moly. It pains me to compliment you too much, I don’t want your head to swell up and explode, but that storyline is as UNIQUE as it gets. Props, Mr. Thriller Writer, MAJOR Props.
Boy, I’m tired though. My buddy and I dissected this story to death. I mean we were working. And thinking and thinking some more. You ruined my week as I was thinking so much I couldn’t think about anything else. It was worth it though. Thanks to my buddy, I kind of guessed the end, sort of, in a way. Well, not really, but I like to think I did better than I did with your last book. OK, fine. I totally didn’t get it, but it wasn’t for the lack of trying. I deserve credit for that. And. It. Was. So. Much. Fun!!!
Now I have to call you out on a few things. You are one of those authors who likes that literary license stuff. You know that drives me nuts. I know a thing or two about medicine. I’ve been around that block. And your method of killing just isn’t something you or I could do at home. It just doesn’t work that slick in real life. Just sayin’. I also know a little math. I was a math major before bailing out when third semester calculus lost touch with the real world. You messed up a few family history numbers, saying one thing, then another, but since that didn’t mess up the plot, I’ll give you that. And another outrageous move, giving a DI a job that she would never have in real life—at least you had the courtesy to write into the script that that was something we should never expect to really happen. Kept you from being called out, didn’t it, Mr. E? Offense is the best defense, right? Don’t think I’m forgetting about the medical thing though. That is a biggie! I could dock your stars for that, but I won’t because of two reasons. First, you threw a big modicum of police procedural in this one—my favorite genre. Much more importantly, you totally entertained me in 10-star grand fashion with The Lucky Ones, so five (seems measly) maximal stars it remains!
Oh phooey, what a letdown. I’m done with you for another year, and you pretty much beat me again with this utterly brilliant piece of work. But as I say, I’m getting to know your MO. And I’m going to get you next year. My buddy and me. Yep, we are. So take your best shot. We’ll be waiting.
Love,
Christine, your forever fan
XOXO
P.S. Thanks to my fabulicious reading buddy Jan for a rousing fun time.
I also wish to thank Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced copy of The Lucky Ones. The opinions expressed in my review are unbiased and totally mine.
We meet once again, one year later. Every year you put a book out there for my reading buddy and me, daring us to outsmart you. You do realize we are getting to know you, don’t you? That gave us an advantage. We were up for the challenge, ready for anything you could throw us.
So, I have to admit your prologue is pretty stellar. It is divided into two parts, Ben’s part and a killer’s part. Ooh, double perspectives. Love it, especially when one of them is the baddie. Gives us a better chance to profile this guy, figure out who he is, and why he is the bastard he is. Probably a mistake on your part to give us this break.
Ben is a great guy. If I were into guys, I would wish to have a Ben for myself. Ben is not doing well though. He has an unhappy son Ollie, an estranged wife (foolish woman), and a terminally ill mum. And he has lost his job. You have not been kind to Ben, Mr. Edwards. The baddie seems to have had a crappy start to life, but don’t all the bad guys out there? This baddie is different though, and kudos to you for serving up a very peculiar psychopath. This guy is looking for some personal redemption. He also wants people to be happy and thinks he knows how to make that happen. Oh, and he feels it would be perfect for good, happy people to actually die happy. You are also making us kind of understand him, Mr. Edwards, but really, I kind of resent that. Makes me feel bad about myself, sympathizing with a killer.
Geez, this book is long, but it clips along pretty darn fast. How do you do that? Your shorty chapters help. So do all those bread crumbs, or should I say bread hunks, that you keep dropping. Wow, from nearly the start you were doling out little clues all over the place. In fact two thirds of the way through you were info dumping so fast and furiously, practically in loaves, I wondered what the heck you were saving for the final third of the story. Well, you were just withholding the best for last, weren’t you? I have to say you impressed me with that, Mister. And that plot! Holy moly. It pains me to compliment you too much, I don’t want your head to swell up and explode, but that storyline is as UNIQUE as it gets. Props, Mr. Thriller Writer, MAJOR Props.
Boy, I’m tired though. My buddy and I dissected this story to death. I mean we were working. And thinking and thinking some more. You ruined my week as I was thinking so much I couldn’t think about anything else. It was worth it though. Thanks to my buddy, I kind of guessed the end, sort of, in a way. Well, not really, but I like to think I did better than I did with your last book. OK, fine. I totally didn’t get it, but it wasn’t for the lack of trying. I deserve credit for that. And. It. Was. So. Much. Fun!!!
Now I have to call you out on a few things. You are one of those authors who likes that literary license stuff. You know that drives me nuts. I know a thing or two about medicine. I’ve been around that block. And your method of killing just isn’t something you or I could do at home. It just doesn’t work that slick in real life. Just sayin’. I also know a little math. I was a math major before bailing out when third semester calculus lost touch with the real world. You messed up a few family history numbers, saying one thing, then another, but since that didn’t mess up the plot, I’ll give you that. And another outrageous move, giving a DI a job that she would never have in real life—at least you had the courtesy to write into the script that that was something we should never expect to really happen. Kept you from being called out, didn’t it, Mr. E? Offense is the best defense, right? Don’t think I’m forgetting about the medical thing though. That is a biggie! I could dock your stars for that, but I won’t because of two reasons. First, you threw a big modicum of police procedural in this one—my favorite genre. Much more importantly, you totally entertained me in 10-star grand fashion with The Lucky Ones, so five (seems measly) maximal stars it remains!
Oh phooey, what a letdown. I’m done with you for another year, and you pretty much beat me again with this utterly brilliant piece of work. But as I say, I’m getting to know your MO. And I’m going to get you next year. My buddy and me. Yep, we are. So take your best shot. We’ll be waiting.
Love,
Christine, your forever fan
XOXO
P.S. Thanks to my fabulicious reading buddy Jan for a rousing fun time.
I also wish to thank Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced copy of The Lucky Ones. The opinions expressed in my review are unbiased and totally mine.
July 16, 2017
This is a tough review to write; in my personal rating scale a 3 star is still an enjoyable read, but I either had a few issues with it or I just didn't find it to be long term memorable. Mark Edwards is one of my all-time favorite authors, the kind I have on auto-purchase, and since becoming a blogger I've had the privilege of reviewing his past two novels. This book had a much different vibe than Edwards' previous books I've read; I have come to expect his thrillers to include a dark, almost horror element to them with deeply disturbing plots that border on the realm of feeling unreal (in a good way, not an unrealistic way). This book felt different as it came across as more of your mainstream police procedural/serial killer crime thriller. Don't get me wrong; it was a great book and I recommend it to any fan of the crime fiction genre. My only real concern was that this novel felt like it didn't have that spark of horror that I've come to reach for in his previous books like Follow You Home and The Magpies.
The plot is a very straight forward crime thriller with your typical police procedural pacing and themes. The writing is of fantastic quality and I did find myself gaining interest once about 25% in. I think I was most attracted to the character of Detective Imogen Evans; she was complex and I personally enjoyed her tangents of backstory and memories from growing up for lighter moments and a brief chuckle. I have to admit that I might have enjoyed this more at a different time, as I'm a bit burnt out on crime thrillers for the moment, so I think this would be the perfect read for someone who is looking for a police procedural with a traditional, main stream feel. Edwards is an author you can trust and know that his books will be entertaining and written with precision and feeling. Even though this wasn't my favorite by the author, I'm still looking forward to reading any and everything he puts out and will be first in line to support him.
Many thanks to the publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley; it was a pleasure to provide my honest thoughts here.
The plot is a very straight forward crime thriller with your typical police procedural pacing and themes. The writing is of fantastic quality and I did find myself gaining interest once about 25% in. I think I was most attracted to the character of Detective Imogen Evans; she was complex and I personally enjoyed her tangents of backstory and memories from growing up for lighter moments and a brief chuckle. I have to admit that I might have enjoyed this more at a different time, as I'm a bit burnt out on crime thrillers for the moment, so I think this would be the perfect read for someone who is looking for a police procedural with a traditional, main stream feel. Edwards is an author you can trust and know that his books will be entertaining and written with precision and feeling. Even though this wasn't my favorite by the author, I'm still looking forward to reading any and everything he puts out and will be first in line to support him.
Many thanks to the publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley; it was a pleasure to provide my honest thoughts here.
June 13, 2017
The Lucky Ones is a clever psychological thriller about a serial killer targeting those who are at their “happiest.”
After his wife leaves him for another man, Ben and his 11 year old son, Ollie, move from London to Shropshire to make a fresh start. With his personal life in shambles, Ben wonders if he made the right decision to move. Very slowly, Ben’s luck changes and good things start happening for him and Ollie. However, what Ben doesn’t realize is that the good luck he has been experiencing is not what it seems.
At the same time, a serial killer known as “The Viper” is creating a state of terror. After killing his victims, he manipulates their bodies in such a way that it seems like they died in a state of “bliss.” The killer believes that dying happy makes one “lucky." This deranged individual targets his victims, makes their dreams come true, and then kills them. Without an obvious link between the victims, the police have little to go on to find the killer. Detective Inspector Imogen Evans is desperate to find The Viper before he strikes again.
POV’s alternate between Ben, Imogen, and the killer.
What makes The Lucky Ones stand out is Mark Edwards’ strong writing--he knows how to draw the reader in with sharp sentences and developed characters. I especially loved the chapters told from the killer’s warped mindset. This is a fast-paced, action packed, entertaining read with a surprising twist.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
After his wife leaves him for another man, Ben and his 11 year old son, Ollie, move from London to Shropshire to make a fresh start. With his personal life in shambles, Ben wonders if he made the right decision to move. Very slowly, Ben’s luck changes and good things start happening for him and Ollie. However, what Ben doesn’t realize is that the good luck he has been experiencing is not what it seems.
At the same time, a serial killer known as “The Viper” is creating a state of terror. After killing his victims, he manipulates their bodies in such a way that it seems like they died in a state of “bliss.” The killer believes that dying happy makes one “lucky." This deranged individual targets his victims, makes their dreams come true, and then kills them. Without an obvious link between the victims, the police have little to go on to find the killer. Detective Inspector Imogen Evans is desperate to find The Viper before he strikes again.
POV’s alternate between Ben, Imogen, and the killer.
What makes The Lucky Ones stand out is Mark Edwards’ strong writing--he knows how to draw the reader in with sharp sentences and developed characters. I especially loved the chapters told from the killer’s warped mindset. This is a fast-paced, action packed, entertaining read with a surprising twist.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2017
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Mark Edwards, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Yet another powerful thriller from the mind of Mark Edwards, pulling the reader into the middle of a serial killer's rampage, fuelled by an interesting justification. DI Imogen Evans is on the hunt for the Shropshire Viper, someone who has been injecting victims with morphine. While the investigation intensifies, Evans learns of an odd connection between the three victims; something that could blow the case wide open. Is there a degree of 'luck' or 'happiness' tied to these killings, for both the killer and the victim? In a parallel narrative, Ben Holland has been struggling as a single father, back in the village of his youth. Raising his son, Ollie, and trying to begin divorce proceedings, Ben has been unable to find his niche as he struggled to redefine himself. With the Viper in the area, Ben is forced to confront his estranged wife, Megan, and her new beau, a glitzy television presenter. How will it all play out and does someone have a little 'luck' that they might be able to pass along to Ben, under the right circumstances? In this crime thriller that pulls the readers in many directions, Edwards shows how he has earned the reputation of being a fabulous writer. Perfect for those who want to up their heart rate and ponder where the killer might be lying in wait.
I have always found Mark Edwards to be at the top of his game and this novel only further exemplifies that. Working with this one-off novel, the key is to create characters who are both easy to explore and fast to present their backstories. Pair that with the ever-evolving storyline of a murder investigation and the reader is required to juggle a great deal and keep names straight in short order. Edwards writes in such a way that this is no impediment to the larger narrative and the reader is hooked by everything that is going on. Through the interesting technique of random chapters told through the eyes of the killer, the reader is able to discern a few key elements of the crime and crawl inside to better understand the 'lucky' mindset that might be feeling these murders. With a wonderful mix of short and longer chapters, the reader hangs on every word and utilises the cliffhanger moments to propel themselves towards the end, unsure how they were able to finish so quickly. Once Edwards has the reader in his grasp, there is no letting go, until the final sentence. Even then, there is an eerie quality of 'what if' that keeps the reader pondering. Stellar work by one who has earned the right to call himself great!
Kudos, Mr. Edwards for another wonderful thriller. How you come up with so many wonderful ideas leaves me baffled, but please do not stop. I can see scores of new fans flocking to you once they get their hands on this piece.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Yet another powerful thriller from the mind of Mark Edwards, pulling the reader into the middle of a serial killer's rampage, fuelled by an interesting justification. DI Imogen Evans is on the hunt for the Shropshire Viper, someone who has been injecting victims with morphine. While the investigation intensifies, Evans learns of an odd connection between the three victims; something that could blow the case wide open. Is there a degree of 'luck' or 'happiness' tied to these killings, for both the killer and the victim? In a parallel narrative, Ben Holland has been struggling as a single father, back in the village of his youth. Raising his son, Ollie, and trying to begin divorce proceedings, Ben has been unable to find his niche as he struggled to redefine himself. With the Viper in the area, Ben is forced to confront his estranged wife, Megan, and her new beau, a glitzy television presenter. How will it all play out and does someone have a little 'luck' that they might be able to pass along to Ben, under the right circumstances? In this crime thriller that pulls the readers in many directions, Edwards shows how he has earned the reputation of being a fabulous writer. Perfect for those who want to up their heart rate and ponder where the killer might be lying in wait.
I have always found Mark Edwards to be at the top of his game and this novel only further exemplifies that. Working with this one-off novel, the key is to create characters who are both easy to explore and fast to present their backstories. Pair that with the ever-evolving storyline of a murder investigation and the reader is required to juggle a great deal and keep names straight in short order. Edwards writes in such a way that this is no impediment to the larger narrative and the reader is hooked by everything that is going on. Through the interesting technique of random chapters told through the eyes of the killer, the reader is able to discern a few key elements of the crime and crawl inside to better understand the 'lucky' mindset that might be feeling these murders. With a wonderful mix of short and longer chapters, the reader hangs on every word and utilises the cliffhanger moments to propel themselves towards the end, unsure how they were able to finish so quickly. Once Edwards has the reader in his grasp, there is no letting go, until the final sentence. Even then, there is an eerie quality of 'what if' that keeps the reader pondering. Stellar work by one who has earned the right to call himself great!
Kudos, Mr. Edwards for another wonderful thriller. How you come up with so many wonderful ideas leaves me baffled, but please do not stop. I can see scores of new fans flocking to you once they get their hands on this piece.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
February 5, 2020
Well well well. Should I be surprised that this author Mark Edwards has left me gasping for breath at the end of this read? Definitely not! Compared to other books written by Mark Edwards I should have known that I'd be left with the thought "What a fabulous enjoyable read that was!"
Do not read the Letter from Author at the back of the book until you've read the full story. It might give away details that may spoil your enjoyment.
I personally look forward to reading The letter at the back from Mark as he intrigues me on how he comes up with his subject matter.
This sounded like a challenge to him at times working on themes and intricately adding data and making it as factual (even though it's fiction) as possible.
The plot is water tight.
The book is long with short snappy chapters that lead us awe inspiringly into another.
It's told in two parts. It's been very cleverly knitted together where the seams are invisible.
I was glued to this book. And I love how some authors make areas of known parts that are real come to life.
This author does that.
He clearly makes each person in his story become reality to us readers, breathing life bit by bit. I imagine them as empty shells and as we read air gets pumped into them bit by bit as we learn and understand the characters he's created.
A couple of reviewers who have knowledge of certain factual within this book have pointed out some "mistakes" for the majority of us who just enjoy a good plot, excitement and ignore some mistakes will find this an acceptable in the degree of the brilliance of this authors work.
The DI female is a formidable woman.
She's come from a big town to a small village/town that has never seen the likes of what has been happening here, and maybe, will never see again....
But who knows.
We are thrown off the scent a few times and I have to humbly admit to being fooled, I was held out on the climax big time with this one for sure.
The attention to detail was a delight to read and some amusing sentences believe it or not.
Ben was such a lovely person trying to raise Ollie his son the best way he could since his marriage split up.
Not always did it go to plan.
There were several characters in their happy places within this thrilling thriller that gripped me by the throat as much as the Villian gripped Ben by the balls.
An absolutely superb read.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer, Mark Edwards and the Publicist for my copy.
Do not read the Letter from Author at the back of the book until you've read the full story. It might give away details that may spoil your enjoyment.
I personally look forward to reading The letter at the back from Mark as he intrigues me on how he comes up with his subject matter.
This sounded like a challenge to him at times working on themes and intricately adding data and making it as factual (even though it's fiction) as possible.
The plot is water tight.
The book is long with short snappy chapters that lead us awe inspiringly into another.
It's told in two parts. It's been very cleverly knitted together where the seams are invisible.
I was glued to this book. And I love how some authors make areas of known parts that are real come to life.
This author does that.
He clearly makes each person in his story become reality to us readers, breathing life bit by bit. I imagine them as empty shells and as we read air gets pumped into them bit by bit as we learn and understand the characters he's created.
A couple of reviewers who have knowledge of certain factual within this book have pointed out some "mistakes" for the majority of us who just enjoy a good plot, excitement and ignore some mistakes will find this an acceptable in the degree of the brilliance of this authors work.
The DI female is a formidable woman.
She's come from a big town to a small village/town that has never seen the likes of what has been happening here, and maybe, will never see again....
But who knows.
We are thrown off the scent a few times and I have to humbly admit to being fooled, I was held out on the climax big time with this one for sure.
The attention to detail was a delight to read and some amusing sentences believe it or not.
Ben was such a lovely person trying to raise Ollie his son the best way he could since his marriage split up.
Not always did it go to plan.
There were several characters in their happy places within this thrilling thriller that gripped me by the throat as much as the Villian gripped Ben by the balls.
An absolutely superb read.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer, Mark Edwards and the Publicist for my copy.
May 27, 2025
4.0 stars— I decided to read my second Mark Edwards’ book on my trip to the beach after really enjoying his earlier book, “Here to Stay’. After finishing “The Lucky Ones”, I have to say Edwards is two for two in my book (pun unfortunately intended). After just finishing a Freida McSpadden book, Edwards’ writing style was completely different, and I had to get used to a slower pace and more plot building leading to the climactic scenes. Edwards does a great job of building back stories for all of his central characters, and you really begin to care about them by the time you get to the end of the book. The book was never boring and very unpredictable. I couldn’t imagine anyone figuring out the ‘whodunnit’ in this book, as the author does a masterful job of keeping everything secret until the explosive ending. “The Lucky Ones” is written from multiple perspectives as you get both the police and killer’s perspectives along with potential victims’. The book’s main character, Ben, is a recently separated parent who is raising his eleven year old boy after recently moving to a small town. I found that I could really relate to all of the characters and their relationships never seemed forced or contrived. Definitely another winner for Edwards, and I know I will be back soon to see if he can make it 3 for 3.
June 1, 2017
4.5 stars
Mark Edwards is truly becoming one of my most favorite mystery/suspense authors. Does it help that every book of his that I have opened has been read with my favorite Goodread's buddy Christine? I say yes, I think it does!!
If I'm completely honest, I think that if I had read this latest on my own, the rating would most likely not be as high as it is. While this was by far the most ambitious thriller Edwards has come up with, it is also the one that stretches that line of believe-ability to a point that was hard to ignore this time around. Reading this with my buddy allowed me to address these eye roll moments and move on, spending more time trying to decipher the many clues (or red herrings) and suspects (or are they?) as well as trying to anticipate what was coming next.
And oh how Edwards had us all over the place with this one! It is this element that Edwards really shines and keeps me coming back for more--- whatever will you come up with next?!
With that, I am going to leave you with a link to my buddy Christine's review. It is by far even more enthusiastic than mine, and well worth the visit to read it. Mark Edwards need to hire her for some PR work! ;)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC provided by NetGalley
Mark Edwards is truly becoming one of my most favorite mystery/suspense authors. Does it help that every book of his that I have opened has been read with my favorite Goodread's buddy Christine? I say yes, I think it does!!
If I'm completely honest, I think that if I had read this latest on my own, the rating would most likely not be as high as it is. While this was by far the most ambitious thriller Edwards has come up with, it is also the one that stretches that line of believe-ability to a point that was hard to ignore this time around. Reading this with my buddy allowed me to address these eye roll moments and move on, spending more time trying to decipher the many clues (or red herrings) and suspects (or are they?) as well as trying to anticipate what was coming next.
And oh how Edwards had us all over the place with this one! It is this element that Edwards really shines and keeps me coming back for more--- whatever will you come up with next?!
With that, I am going to leave you with a link to my buddy Christine's review. It is by far even more enthusiastic than mine, and well worth the visit to read it. Mark Edwards need to hire her for some PR work! ;)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC provided by NetGalley
May 25, 2017
A woman's body was found in the grounds of a ruined priory. Detective Imogen Evans soon realises she dealing with a serial killer.
Ben Hofland has moved back to the village he grew up in following the breakdown of his marriage. He has custody of his young son, Ollie. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky. But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Is Bens luck about to run out?
Mark Edwards books just get better and better. The plot is quite clever, fast paced and very well written. The characters are mostly likeable but all of them are believable. There are a few twists to keep you guessing and guess I did right to the end of the book. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author Mark Edwards for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ben Hofland has moved back to the village he grew up in following the breakdown of his marriage. He has custody of his young son, Ollie. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky. But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Is Bens luck about to run out?
Mark Edwards books just get better and better. The plot is quite clever, fast paced and very well written. The characters are mostly likeable but all of them are believable. There are a few twists to keep you guessing and guess I did right to the end of the book. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and the author Mark Edwards for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2017
I always enjoy Mark Edwards novels so when I was offered the opportunity to read his latest book 'The Lucky One's' out on the 15th June I had no hesitation.
As expected this psychological thriller was to the expected high standard and an exciting read. Full of good characters and many a twist and turn the book had me guessing to the very end.
When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realises she is dealing with a serial killer. But this is a serial killer with a difference, a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces.
A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorising his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky.
But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben.
I really enjoyed many of the characters in this book, Detective Imogen Evans is an excellent character who is facing a new life having moved from London after the death of a colleague. I also liked Ben Hofland who after a troubled few years is now facing up to a new future.
Another excellent novel by an author who is working his way steadily up my favourite authors list with every book I read of his. I read lots of psychological thrillers but I always find Mark Edwards novels fresh and certainly gripping.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Mercer for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
As expected this psychological thriller was to the expected high standard and an exciting read. Full of good characters and many a twist and turn the book had me guessing to the very end.
When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realises she is dealing with a serial killer. But this is a serial killer with a difference, a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces.
A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorising his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky.
But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben.
I really enjoyed many of the characters in this book, Detective Imogen Evans is an excellent character who is facing a new life having moved from London after the death of a colleague. I also liked Ben Hofland who after a troubled few years is now facing up to a new future.
Another excellent novel by an author who is working his way steadily up my favourite authors list with every book I read of his. I read lots of psychological thrillers but I always find Mark Edwards novels fresh and certainly gripping.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Mercer for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2017
Seriously creepy and creative. This is a book that's hard to put down. Mark Edwards has said this was made to be a standalone, but I'd be very interested in a continuation of this story! The characters were intensely likeable and multi-faceted, and I want more! My rating is a 4.5.
Happiness... it means something different to all of us, but all of us crave it. I can't imagine most murder victims die happy... but there's a serial killer at large, and his victims are left with smiles on their cold faces. Detective Imogen Evans, new to the area, is tasked with finding the murderer. They're struggling to figure out why and how he picks his victims... and it's clearly something he plans ahead. The citizens of the small village are terrified to have their very own serial killer among them... used to thinking of their home as safer than big cities. Now the Shropshire Viper is all they can talk about... and their little town is suddenly in the papers.
Ben is a father of an eleven year old boy and has recently separated from his wife over her infidelity. He's come back to his hometown with Ollie, his child. Luckily, he arrived after the murders began, or the townsfolk might be looking at him as a suspect. He's clearly been having a rough time lately. Divorce is looming on the horizon, his neighbors are jerks, he's having money troubles because he can't find work, Ollie is being mouthy and difficult, and his ailing mother may not have much longer to live. He's stressed out beyond belief... but then things start to look up. Guess he's just had a stroke of luck... right?
You won't have to wait long until these two stories intersect. What you will have to wait for is the truth... there's enough red herrings in this book to make your head spin. Another winner from Mark Edwards.
I received an ARC of this novel from Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
Happiness... it means something different to all of us, but all of us crave it. I can't imagine most murder victims die happy... but there's a serial killer at large, and his victims are left with smiles on their cold faces. Detective Imogen Evans, new to the area, is tasked with finding the murderer. They're struggling to figure out why and how he picks his victims... and it's clearly something he plans ahead. The citizens of the small village are terrified to have their very own serial killer among them... used to thinking of their home as safer than big cities. Now the Shropshire Viper is all they can talk about... and their little town is suddenly in the papers.
Ben is a father of an eleven year old boy and has recently separated from his wife over her infidelity. He's come back to his hometown with Ollie, his child. Luckily, he arrived after the murders began, or the townsfolk might be looking at him as a suspect. He's clearly been having a rough time lately. Divorce is looming on the horizon, his neighbors are jerks, he's having money troubles because he can't find work, Ollie is being mouthy and difficult, and his ailing mother may not have much longer to live. He's stressed out beyond belief... but then things start to look up. Guess he's just had a stroke of luck... right?
You won't have to wait long until these two stories intersect. What you will have to wait for is the truth... there's enough red herrings in this book to make your head spin. Another winner from Mark Edwards.
I received an ARC of this novel from Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
August 27, 2017
THE LUCKY ONES by author Mark Edwards, is a change from his gritty dark psychological thrillers, to a crime novel/police procedural/ psychological thriller. I feel spoiled having always loved his dark psychological thrillers that screw up your brain, but being the talented writer that he is, he made this combination work. I guess I just favour his dark psychological thrillers.
It was the happiest day of her life. Little did she know it was also the last.
When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realises she is dealing with a serial killer—a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces.
“Her first serial killer, the man the tabloids called the Shropshire Viper, had struck-a snake, fangs, glistening with venom-for the third time.”
A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorising his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky.
But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben.
Mark Edwards always makes his characters come alive, and in this novel, I really liked DI Imogen Evans and Ben Hofland and his son Ollie, who have their own baggage and troubled past to overcome.
POV’s alternate between Ben, Imogen, and the killer. I thought I knew where things were headed, but the ending proved me wrong. Pay close attention to the details, and see if you can figure it out. I didn’t…as I was so involved in the characters and following the story.
Highly Recommended!
Many thanks to Mark Edwards, Thomas Mercer and Net Galley for providing a digital ARC for review.
It was the happiest day of her life. Little did she know it was also the last.
When a woman’s body is found in the grounds of a ruined priory, Detective Imogen Evans realises she is dealing with a serial killer—a killer whose victims appear to die in a state of bliss, eyes open, smiles forever frozen on their faces.
“Her first serial killer, the man the tabloids called the Shropshire Viper, had struck-a snake, fangs, glistening with venom-for the third time.”
A few miles away, single dad Ben Hofland believes his fortunes are changing at last. Forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, Ben finally finds work. What’s more, the bullies who have been terrorising his son, Ollie, disappear. For the first time in months, Ben feels lucky.
But he is unaware that someone is watching him and Ollie. Someone who wants nothing but happiness for Ben.
Mark Edwards always makes his characters come alive, and in this novel, I really liked DI Imogen Evans and Ben Hofland and his son Ollie, who have their own baggage and troubled past to overcome.
POV’s alternate between Ben, Imogen, and the killer. I thought I knew where things were headed, but the ending proved me wrong. Pay close attention to the details, and see if you can figure it out. I didn’t…as I was so involved in the characters and following the story.
Highly Recommended!
Many thanks to Mark Edwards, Thomas Mercer and Net Galley for providing a digital ARC for review.
May 3, 2017
I really enjoy reading Mark Edwards books and The Lucky Ones was another great read. The story kept me hooked and I did not want to put it down. A psychological thriller that kept me guessing until the end. I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2017
Mark Edwards gives good psychological thriller. Its been true since he started writing them but each book has been better than the last and The Lucky Ones was really excellent, with that genuine addictive quality and a clever, fast moving, considered plot that keeps things nicely unpredictable.
The Lucky Ones is kind of a hybrid serial killer/psychological thriller, as ever the author has created some memorable characters – then thrown them into untenable situations and messed with their happy place (in this case literally) It is gripping stuff, as bodies pile up and nobody can get a handle on anything – in the meantime we follow along with Ben and son Ollie as they both come to terms with a marital split, but suddenly find themselves caught up in something much worse.
I loved the setting here – so beautifully tranquil which made the odd dead body suddenly lying around all the more real – I also thought the police procedural elements were beautifully layered into the wider plot so it all read perfectly, as the story twists and turns towards its ultimate solution you’ll be hanging off every page.
Look to be honest I’m a bit numbed to this genre now reading so widely in it as I do, but whilst there are occasional good ones and many more enjoyable ones and the very very odd incredible one, I know that with this author I’m in safe hands. I never do anything less than bang through them, completely engaged, immersed into whatever story is being told, the characters never fail to stay with me and I’m never quite sure what I’m going to get. Quality writing, quality storytelling, imaginative plotting and a damn fine read, that I know but as for the rest, well its a mystery.
Whilst I think that “The Magpies” will remain definitively my favourite novel from Mark Edwards (is that somewhat of a challenge? Absolutely!) The Lucky Ones is without doubt one of the best. So yes. Highly Recommended.
The Lucky Ones is kind of a hybrid serial killer/psychological thriller, as ever the author has created some memorable characters – then thrown them into untenable situations and messed with their happy place (in this case literally) It is gripping stuff, as bodies pile up and nobody can get a handle on anything – in the meantime we follow along with Ben and son Ollie as they both come to terms with a marital split, but suddenly find themselves caught up in something much worse.
I loved the setting here – so beautifully tranquil which made the odd dead body suddenly lying around all the more real – I also thought the police procedural elements were beautifully layered into the wider plot so it all read perfectly, as the story twists and turns towards its ultimate solution you’ll be hanging off every page.
Look to be honest I’m a bit numbed to this genre now reading so widely in it as I do, but whilst there are occasional good ones and many more enjoyable ones and the very very odd incredible one, I know that with this author I’m in safe hands. I never do anything less than bang through them, completely engaged, immersed into whatever story is being told, the characters never fail to stay with me and I’m never quite sure what I’m going to get. Quality writing, quality storytelling, imaginative plotting and a damn fine read, that I know but as for the rest, well its a mystery.
Whilst I think that “The Magpies” will remain definitively my favourite novel from Mark Edwards (is that somewhat of a challenge? Absolutely!) The Lucky Ones is without doubt one of the best. So yes. Highly Recommended.
August 7, 2017
Fast paced thriller.
Gripping page turner, many twists and turns keeps you up late at night. Just as I figured out the viper, another twist tells me I was wrong. Ending was great surprise.
This book was free with narration, but the accent of the narrator made it very hard for this not born in U.S. reader.
Gripping page turner, many twists and turns keeps you up late at night. Just as I figured out the viper, another twist tells me I was wrong. Ending was great surprise.
This book was free with narration, but the accent of the narrator made it very hard for this not born in U.S. reader.
July 18, 2017
Well am I in the minority again , hope not but to me The Lucky ones didn't live up to expectation for me although I liked DI Imogen Evans & her ballsy attitude which kept me interested up to 50% the pacing for me was a bit slow.
Police procedural is something very different for Mr Edwards & I am not sure if it worked, usually he has a horror aspect but this was lacking in this one, also the characters of Ross & Shelley annoyed the crap out of me plus beware animal lovers there are triggers in this which was terrible as for Ben & Ollie I just couldn't connect to them even though the subject of bullying was interesting, all I can say is I know people rated this a 5 but for me it was just a tad below Mark's usual standards.
3.5 stars.
Police procedural is something very different for Mr Edwards & I am not sure if it worked, usually he has a horror aspect but this was lacking in this one, also the characters of Ross & Shelley annoyed the crap out of me plus beware animal lovers there are triggers in this which was terrible as for Ben & Ollie I just couldn't connect to them even though the subject of bullying was interesting, all I can say is I know people rated this a 5 but for me it was just a tad below Mark's usual standards.
3.5 stars.
February 17, 2021
In Mark Edwards’ "The Lucky Ones," there’s a serial killer out there who is only interested in murdering his victims when they are in a happy state. He considers them, as the book’s title suggests, “the lucky ones”. In this intriguing and complex psychological thriller, a woman’s body is found in the grounds of an old English priory. The victim’s eyes are open and she has a smile frozen on her face; she gives every appearance of having died blissfully. When Detective Imogen Evans examines the crime scene, she knows she has a serial killer on her hands. Not far from the murder scene, single dad, Ben Hofland, who, following a marriage breakdown, has been forced to relocate to the sleepy village where he grew up, believes that his fortunes are changing. He is starting to get work, his son, Ollie, who has suffered from bullying at school has suddenly found that the bullying has stopped and Ben’s days are looking brighter than ever. But all is not what it seems. Is it the hand of fate that is bringing his good fortune? Or is something more sinister going on?
While the plot of "The Lucky Ones" is a little implausible, the story is nonetheless engaging. The intrigue is there from the get go and doesn’t let up until the surprising dénouement. Mark Edwards uses the clever device of writing the narrative in the third person but Ben Hofland’s angle on the story is conveyed in the first person. There will be readers who will feel like shouting to this character to watch out as, especially in the earlier stages of the story, he naively goes about his affairs, blissfully unaware of what is going on around him. All of Edwards’ characters are well developed, his description of police procedure seemingly accurate, the dialogue believable. Readers from outside the U.K. might find the setting a refreshing change from what they are used to in other novels in this genre. "The Lucky Ones" is an enjoyable read.
While the plot of "The Lucky Ones" is a little implausible, the story is nonetheless engaging. The intrigue is there from the get go and doesn’t let up until the surprising dénouement. Mark Edwards uses the clever device of writing the narrative in the third person but Ben Hofland’s angle on the story is conveyed in the first person. There will be readers who will feel like shouting to this character to watch out as, especially in the earlier stages of the story, he naively goes about his affairs, blissfully unaware of what is going on around him. All of Edwards’ characters are well developed, his description of police procedure seemingly accurate, the dialogue believable. Readers from outside the U.K. might find the setting a refreshing change from what they are used to in other novels in this genre. "The Lucky Ones" is an enjoyable read.
July 16, 2017
Whoa! What did I just read???? This is my first book by this author and it is a gripping page-turner book that you do not want to put down!! This book does have A LOT of disturbing details but I found myself drawn into it from the beginning to the end!! Then, towards the very end … a sudden twist in the plot and ... watch out!! I liked it so much that I’ve added his other books to read to my Goodreads list. I can't wait to read his other books now!!
February 3, 2020
Mark Edwards is such an amazing writer!! Life with all its pain, suffering and disappointment is beautiful. It is difficult times that make us appreciate true happiness 😊 !!! However, after reading The Lucky Ones, I don’t want to be happy 🤣😂
July 1, 2017
Bestselling author, Mark Edwards returns following (2016) The Devil’s Work with his latest THE LUCKY ONES a twisty psycho-thriller featuring a serial killer who wants his victims to die happy.
Perfectly happy and ready to die. A killer who tries to make his victims’ lives perfect before he kills them.
Set in Shropshire, we meet a detective, an average man who desires a better life, and a killer. Told from different POV with two parts.
Who will be “The Lucky Ones?” Does he "make" them happy? How does the murderer know what needs fixing in their lives?
Detective Imogen Evans knew bodies were not discovered in picturesque places like this. Her first serial killer, the man the tabloids called the Shropshire Viper had struck –a snake, fangs glistening with venom for the third time.
A killer who likes a little cocktail of morphine to keep his victims smiling.
Ben Holland is newly separated (cheating wife), raising an eleven-year-old son, Ollie on his own. Things are not going well and his finances are strained. His mom has terminal cancer. He is down on his luck. However, soon his luck may change.
The killer is one evil guy (of course Edwards is no stranger to unique twists). The Viper wants his victims to die in bliss. He wants them to die happy. He manipulates their lives and circumstances and turns their life around, to end their life on a good note.
There does not seem to be a link between the victims and DI Inspector Imogen Evans is driven to solve this crime before he strikes next. The Secret of Happy Place. Why does their body turn up in their “happy place?”
Intense! If you are a fan of talented "thriller King", Mark Edwards— you have come to expect gripping, entertaining and a well-crafted twisty plot with characters who come alive on the page.
From suspenseful plotting and solid character development, this complex fast-paced page-turner will keep fans reading into the wee hours of the morning— nothing predictable here!
Top-of-the-line thriller writing with remarkable skill. For fans of Stephen King, Linwood Barclay, Paul Cleave, and Jennifer Hillier. For new readers who enjoy a mix of crime, humor, and psychological— suspense, mystery, horror, and thriller.
If you have not read Follow You Home (2015), highly recommend —one of my favorites! Top Books of 2015.
A special thank you to Thomas & Mercer for an early reading copy.
Also purchased the audiobook narrated by Simon Mattacks for an edge-of-your-seat chilling performance.
JDCMustReadBooks
Perfectly happy and ready to die. A killer who tries to make his victims’ lives perfect before he kills them.
Set in Shropshire, we meet a detective, an average man who desires a better life, and a killer. Told from different POV with two parts.
Who will be “The Lucky Ones?” Does he "make" them happy? How does the murderer know what needs fixing in their lives?
Detective Imogen Evans knew bodies were not discovered in picturesque places like this. Her first serial killer, the man the tabloids called the Shropshire Viper had struck –a snake, fangs glistening with venom for the third time.
A killer who likes a little cocktail of morphine to keep his victims smiling.
Ben Holland is newly separated (cheating wife), raising an eleven-year-old son, Ollie on his own. Things are not going well and his finances are strained. His mom has terminal cancer. He is down on his luck. However, soon his luck may change.
The killer is one evil guy (of course Edwards is no stranger to unique twists). The Viper wants his victims to die in bliss. He wants them to die happy. He manipulates their lives and circumstances and turns their life around, to end their life on a good note.
There does not seem to be a link between the victims and DI Inspector Imogen Evans is driven to solve this crime before he strikes next. The Secret of Happy Place. Why does their body turn up in their “happy place?”
Intense! If you are a fan of talented "thriller King", Mark Edwards— you have come to expect gripping, entertaining and a well-crafted twisty plot with characters who come alive on the page.
From suspenseful plotting and solid character development, this complex fast-paced page-turner will keep fans reading into the wee hours of the morning— nothing predictable here!
Top-of-the-line thriller writing with remarkable skill. For fans of Stephen King, Linwood Barclay, Paul Cleave, and Jennifer Hillier. For new readers who enjoy a mix of crime, humor, and psychological— suspense, mystery, horror, and thriller.
If you have not read Follow You Home (2015), highly recommend —one of my favorites! Top Books of 2015.
A special thank you to Thomas & Mercer for an early reading copy.
Also purchased the audiobook narrated by Simon Mattacks for an edge-of-your-seat chilling performance.
JDCMustReadBooks
October 23, 2019
"The art of living well and the art of dying well are one."
-Epicurus
Mark Edwards is one of my favorite authors. He is like a trusted old friend, whom I know inside out. I don’t need to read reviews of other readers or read the blurb of the story before starting his books. I know his writing style and I know at some point he is going to pull a couple of surprises out of the bag. He never disappoints.
There is a serial killer in Shropshire. The tabloids call him The Viper. He leaves the victims’ bodies in different parts of the county and they have one thing in common. They appear to have died happy.
What do the victims have in common? What is the motive? Who is next?
"What better time to die than when we are at our happiest?"
-Epicurus
Mark Edwards is one of my favorite authors. He is like a trusted old friend, whom I know inside out. I don’t need to read reviews of other readers or read the blurb of the story before starting his books. I know his writing style and I know at some point he is going to pull a couple of surprises out of the bag. He never disappoints.
There is a serial killer in Shropshire. The tabloids call him The Viper. He leaves the victims’ bodies in different parts of the county and they have one thing in common. They appear to have died happy.
What do the victims have in common? What is the motive? Who is next?
"What better time to die than when we are at our happiest?"
February 2, 2019
Mark Edward's is back in this book,been reading his last few books found them abit different that he usually writes.but this book I really enjoyed.its a crime read.Ben and his son ollie is overweight bullied at school and he finds a phone and receives messages but who is this person.Ben was married to megan but she had an affair with Michael so Ben and ollie move away.a serial killer on the loose but is Ben on his radar and why it all becomes clear.imogen detective on the case was my favourite character the ending was mark Edward's at his best full of twists and turns,highly recommend this book brilliant writing.
April 15, 2025
в принципі, норм триллер. Читається дуже швидко, трохи з роялями в кущах, але мені не дуже вистачило "об'єму" для опису бекграунду та мотивацій поганця. але якщо шукаєте на відволіктися - піде
June 23, 2020
(3.5) I love Mark Edwards, & for me, this 1 lands right in the middle. He went a little less batshit, & a little more police procedural.. Still enough of what he does best though, so if you’re a fan (or even if it’s your 1st) you won’t be disappointed!
May 17, 2025
I've read all of Mark's books to date including those written with Louise Voss. I can say I'm a fan of his work with great certainty which is why I'm surprised that this one gets a 3.5 star rating from me. All others have been 4.5 or 5 stars.
I enjoyed the book but did find the pace slower than other books and the incredible reveals and twists that I so live in Mark's books were not here in this one. So for me it was too predictable. However, I read it quickly and would still highly recommend. Not a bad read by any means. I'm just comparing to his other great novels.
We have a killer who leaves a very specific MO behind on his victims. A plot that veers from the average serial killer motivation. Intertwined with the police hunt is a lot of back story with different characters, relationship and family dynamics which I did find really interesting.
If I didn't see Mark's name on the cover I would not have picked this as one of his books. Something to really make it stand out from the many books in this genre I read was required. I still devoured it quickly and despite wanting to squeeze more from it I enjoyed my time reading it.
I think venturing into a crime novel, moving away from his usual dark, twisty psychological thrillers hasn't floated my boat. Why reinvent the wheel? Mark is brilliant with messing with my head in his psych thrillers, always throwing up reveals to spin me off course and many having a creepy element. This is far from that style of book.
3.5 stars for The Lucky Ones. One of only a couple of his books I’ve not loved. He has had a near perfect run with me and I remain a solid fan. I'm hoping he will veer back to his twisty psychological thriller style with his next book.
Thanks SO much for taking a little time to read my review. Your likes and comments mean a lot to me. 😻
Feel free to add me as a friend or follow me for more book reviews. You can browse through my many great books reviewed for your next awesome book to enjoy.
If you are an Author or Publisher and you’d like me to consider reading and reviewing your book(s) please just message me.
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I enjoyed the book but did find the pace slower than other books and the incredible reveals and twists that I so live in Mark's books were not here in this one. So for me it was too predictable. However, I read it quickly and would still highly recommend. Not a bad read by any means. I'm just comparing to his other great novels.
We have a killer who leaves a very specific MO behind on his victims. A plot that veers from the average serial killer motivation. Intertwined with the police hunt is a lot of back story with different characters, relationship and family dynamics which I did find really interesting.
If I didn't see Mark's name on the cover I would not have picked this as one of his books. Something to really make it stand out from the many books in this genre I read was required. I still devoured it quickly and despite wanting to squeeze more from it I enjoyed my time reading it.
I think venturing into a crime novel, moving away from his usual dark, twisty psychological thrillers hasn't floated my boat. Why reinvent the wheel? Mark is brilliant with messing with my head in his psych thrillers, always throwing up reveals to spin me off course and many having a creepy element. This is far from that style of book.
3.5 stars for The Lucky Ones. One of only a couple of his books I’ve not loved. He has had a near perfect run with me and I remain a solid fan. I'm hoping he will veer back to his twisty psychological thriller style with his next book.
Thanks SO much for taking a little time to read my review. Your likes and comments mean a lot to me. 😻
Feel free to add me as a friend or follow me for more book reviews. You can browse through my many great books reviewed for your next awesome book to enjoy.
If you are an Author or Publisher and you’d like me to consider reading and reviewing your book(s) please just message me.
You can also find me on Amazon UK where I am a Top 500 Reviewer.
October 30, 2017
I've read a lot of Mark Edwards books, and I usually absolutely love them. This one felt different from his previous books, and while I liked it, I didn't love it the way I loved his others. This one felt like more of a standard police procedural instead of his normal dark, twisty, unique thrillers.
December 14, 2018
Story line was good but I had to read half or more of a chapter to figure out which character was talking. Got very annoying.
March 15, 2019
4 1/2 stars for this new (to me) author.
I thought this was a pretty unusual story. Trying to guess the killer was hard, and there are a few red herrings along the way. The ending was a surprise, but was fairly satisfying. It has the feel of the beginning of a series in some ways, but nothing important was left hanging.
The killer was pretty crazy, and we get a lot of chapters from his point of view. He is pretty violent, but somehow thinks of himself as doing good and making his victims happy - at least some of them. Unfortunately, there is a bit of collateral damage, but that doesn't seem to bother him much.
I thought this was a pretty unusual story. Trying to guess the killer was hard, and there are a few red herrings along the way. The ending was a surprise, but was fairly satisfying. It has the feel of the beginning of a series in some ways, but nothing important was left hanging.
The killer was pretty crazy, and we get a lot of chapters from his point of view. He is pretty violent, but somehow thinks of himself as doing good and making his victims happy - at least some of them. Unfortunately, there is a bit of collateral damage, but that doesn't seem to bother him much.
April 15, 2018
I read The Devil's Work by Mark Edwards and was blown away. It was such a fabulous story. So, I was curious to see how the next book would turn out. I chose to listen to this book at work and I found that was an excellent choice. The narrator Simon Mattacks was great!
There are three parallel POVs in the book. We get to follow single dad Ben Hofland as he tries to bring his life back on track after his wife left him for another man. And old friend of his as it seems which not makes Ben bitter at all. We also got Detective Imogen Evans POV as she tries to catch a killer. And, of course, we have the killers POV. All this makes this book pretty thrilling to read. Trying to figure out who the killer is, while at the same time having a bad feeling for poor Ben and his son Ollie. I mean it's good that life is getting better for Ben. But, in this book is a great life not always a good thing...
I liked how we get to know the next potential victim, I mean Ben, get to follow him and his son Ollie, while a crazed murderer is watching him. What is the killers motive, will Imogen Even figure it out or is Ben doomed? This book is a stand-alone, but I wouldn't mind reading more books with Imogen Evans. She's a tough cop and I quite liked her structured, but lonely life (although there is a hint of a romance in her life towards the end of the book). At the same time, I quite enjoyed getting to know Ben, an ordinary man, who just had the misfortune of getting the attention of a murderer.
This book was great and I'm looking forward to reading more books by Mark Edwards!
There are three parallel POVs in the book. We get to follow single dad Ben Hofland as he tries to bring his life back on track after his wife left him for another man. And old friend of his as it seems which not makes Ben bitter at all. We also got Detective Imogen Evans POV as she tries to catch a killer. And, of course, we have the killers POV. All this makes this book pretty thrilling to read. Trying to figure out who the killer is, while at the same time having a bad feeling for poor Ben and his son Ollie. I mean it's good that life is getting better for Ben. But, in this book is a great life not always a good thing...
I liked how we get to know the next potential victim, I mean Ben, get to follow him and his son Ollie, while a crazed murderer is watching him. What is the killers motive, will Imogen Even figure it out or is Ben doomed? This book is a stand-alone, but I wouldn't mind reading more books with Imogen Evans. She's a tough cop and I quite liked her structured, but lonely life (although there is a hint of a romance in her life towards the end of the book). At the same time, I quite enjoyed getting to know Ben, an ordinary man, who just had the misfortune of getting the attention of a murderer.
This book was great and I'm looking forward to reading more books by Mark Edwards!
June 12, 2017
All my reviews can be found at http://theboookreviewcafe.com
There's one thing you can always guarantee with Mark Edward and that’s a taut and suspense filled read. The author certainly knows how to write a thrilling psychological thriller and his latest The Lucky Ones is definitely a worthy addition to this authors work.
The author writes about scary things that happen to ordinary people, the next door neighbour, the happily married couple, or in this case Single dad Ben Hofland forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, but of course nothing is straight forward in The Lucky Ones, with a serial killer who has a unique way of murdering his victims Dead bodies begin to pile up and what follows is an unpredictable and throughly enjoyable read.
The story is told from three POV Detective Imogen Evan’s, Ben and from diary entries of the killer, now sometimes this can make all the difference to a read , when done badly it can make a read seem disjointed and I find my interest tends to wane, But fortunately Mark Edwards manages to do go between the three seamlessly, each characters POV adds intrigue to the tale and heightens the overwhelming sense of foreboding. The author has created characters that are both engaging and very likeable which always heighten my enjoyment of a book.
I personally thought The Lucky Ones leaned more to the crime thriller genre but in saying that there were enough psychological elements, paranoia, tension, red herrings to make this an unsettling but compelling read. Craftily plotted Mark Edwards has a real talent for telling a story and keeping the reader guessing right to the very last moments which make his novels a joy to read.
There's one thing you can always guarantee with Mark Edward and that’s a taut and suspense filled read. The author certainly knows how to write a thrilling psychological thriller and his latest The Lucky Ones is definitely a worthy addition to this authors work.
The author writes about scary things that happen to ordinary people, the next door neighbour, the happily married couple, or in this case Single dad Ben Hofland forced to move back to the sleepy village where he grew up following the breakdown of his marriage, but of course nothing is straight forward in The Lucky Ones, with a serial killer who has a unique way of murdering his victims Dead bodies begin to pile up and what follows is an unpredictable and throughly enjoyable read.
The story is told from three POV Detective Imogen Evan’s, Ben and from diary entries of the killer, now sometimes this can make all the difference to a read , when done badly it can make a read seem disjointed and I find my interest tends to wane, But fortunately Mark Edwards manages to do go between the three seamlessly, each characters POV adds intrigue to the tale and heightens the overwhelming sense of foreboding. The author has created characters that are both engaging and very likeable which always heighten my enjoyment of a book.
I personally thought The Lucky Ones leaned more to the crime thriller genre but in saying that there were enough psychological elements, paranoia, tension, red herrings to make this an unsettling but compelling read. Craftily plotted Mark Edwards has a real talent for telling a story and keeping the reader guessing right to the very last moments which make his novels a joy to read.
November 15, 2023
Užteko vienos knygos - "Viešnagės", kad susivokčiau, jog skaitysiu visas autoriaus knygas. Ten viskas taip kitaip, taip talentingai aprašytas žmogiškasis siaubas, kad žinojau - norėsiu dar. Paskui perskaičiau "Atsekt iki namų". Irgi labai patiko. Ji patvirtino jausmą, kad Edwards moka rašyt trilerius/siaubo knygas. Yra puikiai įvaldęs žaidimą su skaitytojo emocijomis ir puikiai sužaidžia įtampos partiją. Ši knyga buvo kitokia. Tai veikiau trileris, kuris iš esmės nebuvo labai blogas, bet lyginant su ankstesnėmis skaitytomis, deja, nuvylė.
Žudikas čia užsiima keistomis žmogžudystėmis. Jis nori, kad aukos mirtų besišypsančios. Laimingos. Savo gyvenimo pakilimo aukštumose. Kūnai randami ramiai besišypsantys ir tai kelia didesnį siaubą, nei manot. Žudikas nsuitaiko į Olį - berniuką, kuris ką tik su tėčiu atsikraustė į apsnūdsį miestelį. Jis stebi vaiką, jo įpročius ir laukia, kol mažasis bus toks laimngas, jog pagaliau galės mirti...
Edwards čia rašo gan šabloniškai. Kieta, nepalaužiama, protinga tyrėja Imožena, jos asmeninio gyvenimo skyriai persipina su nusikaltimo tyrimu. Aukų asmeninių gyvenimo detalių irgi nepagailėta: maždaug taip, kaip skaitom visuose šio žanro kūriniuose. Labai liūdna, bet nebuvau nustebinta nė vienu aspektu. Tikėjaus, bent pabaigos su kažkokiu plot twistu, bet viskas vyniojosi vienodai ir išsivyniojo taip pat. Galbūt autorius tiesiog norėjo įsėst į kitokias roges ir save išbandyt, bet labai linkiu jam vėl grįžti prie tų kraują stingdančių scenarijų, tik jam būdingo žmogaus baimių permatymo ir tylaus, lėto siaubo be jokių kitų rašytojų špargalkių.
Žudikas čia užsiima keistomis žmogžudystėmis. Jis nori, kad aukos mirtų besišypsančios. Laimingos. Savo gyvenimo pakilimo aukštumose. Kūnai randami ramiai besišypsantys ir tai kelia didesnį siaubą, nei manot. Žudikas nsuitaiko į Olį - berniuką, kuris ką tik su tėčiu atsikraustė į apsnūdsį miestelį. Jis stebi vaiką, jo įpročius ir laukia, kol mažasis bus toks laimngas, jog pagaliau galės mirti...
Edwards čia rašo gan šabloniškai. Kieta, nepalaužiama, protinga tyrėja Imožena, jos asmeninio gyvenimo skyriai persipina su nusikaltimo tyrimu. Aukų asmeninių gyvenimo detalių irgi nepagailėta: maždaug taip, kaip skaitom visuose šio žanro kūriniuose. Labai liūdna, bet nebuvau nustebinta nė vienu aspektu. Tikėjaus, bent pabaigos su kažkokiu plot twistu, bet viskas vyniojosi vienodai ir išsivyniojo taip pat. Galbūt autorius tiesiog norėjo įsėst į kitokias roges ir save išbandyt, bet labai linkiu jam vėl grįžti prie tų kraują stingdančių scenarijų, tik jam būdingo žmogaus baimių permatymo ir tylaus, lėto siaubo be jokių kitų rašytojų špargalkių.
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