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Closet Full of Bones
Ever since they were children, Gillian Hearth has been her sister Frankie’s guardian, her sounding board, and her best friend. Together, the Hearth sisters quietly bury their secrets and form a formidable team during any crisis. Purchasing the old Blymhill house with the hopes of turning it into an artists’ retreat, the sisters are finally living their dream. But when Frankie’s stable ground is rattled by a vengeful ex-boyfriend, an unstable friend from the past shows up unannounced with delusions of intimacy, and a cold case cop starts sniffing around their door, the sisters are forced to wonder how far they will go to keep their secrets safe.
Gillian discovers that, this time, her fight is about to land her in the crosshairs of a dangerous predator who will use any means necessary to remove her from the equation. With everything she holds dear under threat, Gillian battles to keep her head above water and her skeletons in the closet.
Gillian discovers that, this time, her fight is about to land her in the crosshairs of a dangerous predator who will use any means necessary to remove her from the equation. With everything she holds dear under threat, Gillian battles to keep her head above water and her skeletons in the closet.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
October 24, 2022
First off, it’s a great title for a book that immediately conveys that this novel is going to be about secrets and skeletons that are hidden, hopefully never to see the light of day, but of course that's part of the fun. When I first downloaded to my Kindle, I expected a slow-paced, Agatha Christie type mystery, which is what we got, sort of.
I love the relationship between the sisters who are the main characters, Gillian and Frankie Hearth. Gillian has always taken care of her younger sister, Frankie, who's always been more emotionally vulnerable, trusting. The first line of the book telegraphs what’s going to happen, and it draws you in immediately. It shows that Aalto has some writing chops.
The plot weaves a complex story that you wonder how it will unravel, but then somewhere along this sophisticated course, something happens where it becomes less cohesive, less logical, more predictable. It could very well be my fault that the climax fails to reach the emotional beats I projected Aalto would hit from the beginning, and I was left wanting. Still, there was an intriguing story with characters I would love to know for real. I’m staying down the middle of the road with this one.
I love the relationship between the sisters who are the main characters, Gillian and Frankie Hearth. Gillian has always taken care of her younger sister, Frankie, who's always been more emotionally vulnerable, trusting. The first line of the book telegraphs what’s going to happen, and it draws you in immediately. It shows that Aalto has some writing chops.
The plot weaves a complex story that you wonder how it will unravel, but then somewhere along this sophisticated course, something happens where it becomes less cohesive, less logical, more predictable. It could very well be my fault that the climax fails to reach the emotional beats I projected Aalto would hit from the beginning, and I was left wanting. Still, there was an intriguing story with characters I would love to know for real. I’m staying down the middle of the road with this one.
August 3, 2024
Title: Closet Full of Bones
Author: A. J. Aalto
Genre: Cozy, Mystery, Horror
Publication Year: 2017
Review: Caveats first; that cover and the title are perfectly scary. To me they convey this dichotomy between the mystery and the horror. At times the novel skates along the borders of each genre, as if the author is uncertain which way she wants to go. Clearly, there are elements of both and I feel that it's important that she showcases both aspects. This is a mashup blend of the disparate genres previously mentioned.
Gillian and Frankie Hearth are adult sisters. Gillian has always taken care of Frankie, and both sisters have always found it comfortable to know their roles and play them. Since Frankie was too trusting and emotionally vulnerable, Gillian had to be the guard dog, protective of Frankie, so protective that maybe Gillian has done things, illegal things she should not have done. Because Frankie is such a mess, can Gillian trust that her sister can keep the secrets, like sacred bones in the closet?
Watch for the lawn signs. Beware of Dog. Don't step on the Grass. Don't Dig Here.
This novel is fraught with cool characters, twisted former boyfriends, psychological examinations, and an Agatha Christie type exposition laced with mood that I found creepy cool. The relationship between the sisters is very similar to the one I had (RIP Marc) with one of my brothers. We were equally protective of each other, but the relationship was life-sustaining and transformative.
Good book. Good read.
Author: A. J. Aalto
Genre: Cozy, Mystery, Horror
Publication Year: 2017
Review: Caveats first; that cover and the title are perfectly scary. To me they convey this dichotomy between the mystery and the horror. At times the novel skates along the borders of each genre, as if the author is uncertain which way she wants to go. Clearly, there are elements of both and I feel that it's important that she showcases both aspects. This is a mashup blend of the disparate genres previously mentioned.
Gillian and Frankie Hearth are adult sisters. Gillian has always taken care of Frankie, and both sisters have always found it comfortable to know their roles and play them. Since Frankie was too trusting and emotionally vulnerable, Gillian had to be the guard dog, protective of Frankie, so protective that maybe Gillian has done things, illegal things she should not have done. Because Frankie is such a mess, can Gillian trust that her sister can keep the secrets, like sacred bones in the closet?
Watch for the lawn signs. Beware of Dog. Don't step on the Grass. Don't Dig Here.
This novel is fraught with cool characters, twisted former boyfriends, psychological examinations, and an Agatha Christie type exposition laced with mood that I found creepy cool. The relationship between the sisters is very similar to the one I had (RIP Marc) with one of my brothers. We were equally protective of each other, but the relationship was life-sustaining and transformative.
Good book. Good read.
December 19, 2017
When the author, A. J. Aalto, offered me Closet Full Of Bones in return for a review, I couldn’t say no, I mean, how could I? Just look at the title! It was the title, rigged with the anticipation of mind boggling suspense, add to that the summary, that piqued my curiosity. I was really keen on reading it and when I finished, I was glad I agreed to review the book!
The Hearth sisters, Gillian and Frankie, have just bought a beautiful house by the bay, soon to be opened as a Bed and Breakfast for artists and writers and as they eagerly look forward to indulging in the process, an ex boyfriend spoils it all by constantly harassing Frankie, the younger of the two. As the situation turns from bad to worse, they are forced to hire a private investigator. But its not that the Hearth sisters are themselves completely innocent, they have some buried skeletons of their own in their closet (or not!). But they fear their safely guarded secret might spill out when they realize they have to be completely honest with the PI.
Yes, probably I’m not doing enough justice to the summary, but trust me, it is on purpose. If you are an old reader of my reviews, you’d probably know how I hate giving out details and spoiling the fun for you. So read the book and you will understand what I tried to do here.
Closet Full Of Bones is really intriguing and absorbing. I especially have to applaud the narrative skills of the author. It was beautifully descriptive, playful with words. The story took its time to set the scene in the beginning but having read the summary, I stuck on eagerly to find out what the sisters were hiding. There is a slow (and by no means boring) but steady pace that builds the suspense and I especially loved the style in which the facts were stated first and the reasoning followed later.
The characters were believable – strengths, flaws et al. I guess I would recommend this book for the plot and the writing style, as mentioned earlier, I am a fan!
Last word. A thrilling, edgy story with a nail biting climax, must not be missed!
The Hearth sisters, Gillian and Frankie, have just bought a beautiful house by the bay, soon to be opened as a Bed and Breakfast for artists and writers and as they eagerly look forward to indulging in the process, an ex boyfriend spoils it all by constantly harassing Frankie, the younger of the two. As the situation turns from bad to worse, they are forced to hire a private investigator. But its not that the Hearth sisters are themselves completely innocent, they have some buried skeletons of their own in their closet (or not!). But they fear their safely guarded secret might spill out when they realize they have to be completely honest with the PI.
Yes, probably I’m not doing enough justice to the summary, but trust me, it is on purpose. If you are an old reader of my reviews, you’d probably know how I hate giving out details and spoiling the fun for you. So read the book and you will understand what I tried to do here.
Closet Full Of Bones is really intriguing and absorbing. I especially have to applaud the narrative skills of the author. It was beautifully descriptive, playful with words. The story took its time to set the scene in the beginning but having read the summary, I stuck on eagerly to find out what the sisters were hiding. There is a slow (and by no means boring) but steady pace that builds the suspense and I especially loved the style in which the facts were stated first and the reasoning followed later.
The characters were believable – strengths, flaws et al. I guess I would recommend this book for the plot and the writing style, as mentioned earlier, I am a fan!
Last word. A thrilling, edgy story with a nail biting climax, must not be missed!
Want to Read
January 8, 2018Free at the time of posting on Amazon.co.uk
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Closet-Full-...
Want to Read
January 10, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/10/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Ever since they were children, Gillian Hearth has been her sister Frankie’s guardian, her sounding board, and her best friend. Together, the Hearth sisters quietly bury their secrets and form a formidable team during any crisis. Purchasing the old Blymhill house with the hopes of turning it into an artists’ retreat, the sisters are finally living their dream. But when Frankie’s stable ground is rattled by a vengeful ex-boyfriend, an unstable friend from the past shows up unannounced with delusions of intimacy, and a cold case cop starts sniffing around their door, the sisters are forced to wonder how far they will go to keep their secrets safe.
Gillian discovers that, this time, her fight is about to land her in the crosshairs of a dangerous predator who will use any means necessary to remove her from the equation. With everything she holds dear under threat, Gillian battles to keep her head above water and her skeletons in the closet.
Blurb:
Ever since they were children, Gillian Hearth has been her sister Frankie’s guardian, her sounding board, and her best friend. Together, the Hearth sisters quietly bury their secrets and form a formidable team during any crisis. Purchasing the old Blymhill house with the hopes of turning it into an artists’ retreat, the sisters are finally living their dream. But when Frankie’s stable ground is rattled by a vengeful ex-boyfriend, an unstable friend from the past shows up unannounced with delusions of intimacy, and a cold case cop starts sniffing around their door, the sisters are forced to wonder how far they will go to keep their secrets safe.
Gillian discovers that, this time, her fight is about to land her in the crosshairs of a dangerous predator who will use any means necessary to remove her from the equation. With everything she holds dear under threat, Gillian battles to keep her head above water and her skeletons in the closet.
December 25, 2018
um.. I don't know about this one. There was a whole hell of a lot going on that didn't really connect, but the story made the plot points connect-some way somehow.
This story reminded me a bit of Practical Magic, but without the magic. We have Gillian- the no nonsense sister who has her priorities straight, and a slightly younger sister Frankie who is not just a 'magnet for trouble' but seems to only collect damaged people around her, and then expect her sister to clean it up. The sisters have a seemingly close bond, and are trying to get their lives on track to open up a new bed and breakfast in a sleepy small town when trouble ensues.
Spoiler review:
So did I think this was a particularly interesting mystery thriller.. not really no.
Did I like Gillians character throughout the book- yes I did.
So...hey at least its on kindle unlimited.
This story reminded me a bit of Practical Magic, but without the magic. We have Gillian- the no nonsense sister who has her priorities straight, and a slightly younger sister Frankie who is not just a 'magnet for trouble' but seems to only collect damaged people around her, and then expect her sister to clean it up. The sisters have a seemingly close bond, and are trying to get their lives on track to open up a new bed and breakfast in a sleepy small town when trouble ensues.
Spoiler review:
So did I think this was a particularly interesting mystery thriller.. not really no.
Did I like Gillians character throughout the book- yes I did.
So...hey at least its on kindle unlimited.
January 7, 2018
Sinister Secrets And Emotional Tsunamis
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closedminded, or faint of heart!•••
I am fairly certain this is a stand alone novel. If it isn't I will be pleasantly surprised :)
Gillian is her sister's keeper in more ways than one. Frankie is flighty and fragile and impossibly optimistic... She refuses to see the flaws in people until it is way too late. Between her grief and her injuries it is a wonder Gillian can even take care of herself, much less clean up Frankie's messes. Maybe one day she will have the strength to make her sister deal with her own problems all by herself.. But that's doubtful. For as long as she can remember Gillian has been keeping her sister's secrets and cleaning up her messes. Can she resolve this latest crisis without compromising herself more? Why is Bobby back? What does she want? Why can't Frankie ever just make the right decision in the first place? How much longer will they be able to hold everything together? Will her dream of a Bed and Breakfast become a reality? Or will it become a scrapped dream? How can these things keep happening? How much more unstable can Bobby really be? Will she crack and destroy everything?
***This is a dark psychological thriller full of action, suspense, deep dark secrets and hidden motives sure to keep you in the edge of seat for the entire time! Suitable for adults who enjoy horror and suspense as well as unconventional antiheroes :)
•••NOT for the homophobic, transphobic, closedminded, or faint of heart!•••
I am fairly certain this is a stand alone novel. If it isn't I will be pleasantly surprised :)
Gillian is her sister's keeper in more ways than one. Frankie is flighty and fragile and impossibly optimistic... She refuses to see the flaws in people until it is way too late. Between her grief and her injuries it is a wonder Gillian can even take care of herself, much less clean up Frankie's messes. Maybe one day she will have the strength to make her sister deal with her own problems all by herself.. But that's doubtful. For as long as she can remember Gillian has been keeping her sister's secrets and cleaning up her messes. Can she resolve this latest crisis without compromising herself more? Why is Bobby back? What does she want? Why can't Frankie ever just make the right decision in the first place? How much longer will they be able to hold everything together? Will her dream of a Bed and Breakfast become a reality? Or will it become a scrapped dream? How can these things keep happening? How much more unstable can Bobby really be? Will she crack and destroy everything?
***This is a dark psychological thriller full of action, suspense, deep dark secrets and hidden motives sure to keep you in the edge of seat for the entire time! Suitable for adults who enjoy horror and suspense as well as unconventional antiheroes :)
Did Not Finish
February 1, 2019The story follows two sisters, Gillian and Frankie, and the people around them. Frankie is dealing with a bad break-up. The man, Travis, is stalking Frankie, sending her text messages every two seconds, and making Frankie really stressed out.
Frankie hires a private investigator (instead of going to the police) to look up on Travis Freeman. To describe Travis I would say he reminds of that one redneck that has a lifted truck (the kind that signals a pencil dick/small dick), skinny from smoking/ chewing way to much or just because the dude for some reason can’t gain a pound, and he has to make everyone know that he’s Mr. Billy Badass. That is how I would describe Travis.
Frankie is quite the idiot. She is described as being so soft that when some one stubs their toe, she cries with them. No seriously that is what the books said.
If someone stubbed their toe, Frankie’s eyes would well up before their would.
Not the kind of heroine you want to read about. At least I don’t want to read about.
There were decisions both Frankie and Gillian made that I thought were bad. Like hiring a private investigator instead of going to the police. Not blocking Travis’s number. Gillian tends to make big decisions for Frankie. Frankie is more likely soft because of this. She didn’t think of dumping Travis till Gillian put it in her head to get out of the toxic relationship. I don’t know about you but that shows how stupid Frankie is to me.
The are people out there that five star rated, four star rated. Some people said the beginning was a hook then it gets unrealistic in the end. I think it’s unrealistic to the point I’m reading. The chapter before I stopped reading was Frankie stressing about Travis. Then the next chapter she’s fine and flirting with another guy on the phone. It didn’t seem believable to me when a girl is coming out of that toxic of a relationship, stressing because the guy won’t leave her alone, then she does a 180 and be flirting with another guy. But what do I know.
Frankie hires a private investigator (instead of going to the police) to look up on Travis Freeman. To describe Travis I would say he reminds of that one redneck that has a lifted truck (the kind that signals a pencil dick/small dick), skinny from smoking/ chewing way to much or just because the dude for some reason can’t gain a pound, and he has to make everyone know that he’s Mr. Billy Badass. That is how I would describe Travis.
Frankie is quite the idiot. She is described as being so soft that when some one stubs their toe, she cries with them. No seriously that is what the books said.
If someone stubbed their toe, Frankie’s eyes would well up before their would.
Not the kind of heroine you want to read about. At least I don’t want to read about.
There were decisions both Frankie and Gillian made that I thought were bad. Like hiring a private investigator instead of going to the police. Not blocking Travis’s number. Gillian tends to make big decisions for Frankie. Frankie is more likely soft because of this. She didn’t think of dumping Travis till Gillian put it in her head to get out of the toxic relationship. I don’t know about you but that shows how stupid Frankie is to me.
The are people out there that five star rated, four star rated. Some people said the beginning was a hook then it gets unrealistic in the end. I think it’s unrealistic to the point I’m reading. The chapter before I stopped reading was Frankie stressing about Travis. Then the next chapter she’s fine and flirting with another guy on the phone. It didn’t seem believable to me when a girl is coming out of that toxic of a relationship, stressing because the guy won’t leave her alone, then she does a 180 and be flirting with another guy. But what do I know.
February 27, 2021
WHOA! How many sociopaths can you believably fit into one storyline? Apparently the answer is 5 😅. After reading Aalto’s Marnie Baranuik series, this was honestly quite a shock. The storyline is both gritty & seriously twisty. The Hearth sisters (though especially the younger), for some reason, seem to draw crazies like magnets. As someone who regularly guesses where a plot is heading (in both books & film), I appreciate the fact that this book kept me on my toes, and I was almost dizzy trying to figure out who exactly was guilty of what....you know, since there were 5 obvious sociopaths to choose from, with multiple nefarious deeds being done (although one ended up being slightly less crazy than readers are first lead to believe). All in all, this was an intense whirlwind of a ride, and proves that Aalto is capable of spinning a good yarn within multiple genres.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2018
The beginning of this book sets you on edge for the journey that is to come. Did she really just say what I think she said,I thought to myself. I had to re-read the first chapter a couple of times to fully grasp what the author was saying.
This is the story of 2 sisters. One weak, unmotivated, reckless and completely reliant on her older sister to bail her out. The other sister is strong, driven and selfless, and she buries her own pain to take care of her younger sister. There is a crime that haunts the sisters, and it continues to play havoc in their lives.
This book wasn’t award-winning fiction, but it did keep my attention. The ending was a twisted, tangled mess that I would love to rewrite for the author, but alas, I don’t have time for that. I’ve got too many other books to read this year.
My biggest complaint about this book is that there were too many characters shuffling in and out of the sisters’ lives. Too many villains wishing them ill and plotting to ruin them, and too many wanna-be heroes trying to rescue them from any peril or save them from themselves. It’s not real life. Most people that come into our lives don’t fall into either category. Not everyone in our lives picks a side. They aren’t all either for us or against us. The fact is that most people don’t care one way or the other. They stay on the periphery, uninvolved in our lives. These types of everyday characters were absent here, and it struck me as odd.
This is the story of 2 sisters. One weak, unmotivated, reckless and completely reliant on her older sister to bail her out. The other sister is strong, driven and selfless, and she buries her own pain to take care of her younger sister. There is a crime that haunts the sisters, and it continues to play havoc in their lives.
This book wasn’t award-winning fiction, but it did keep my attention. The ending was a twisted, tangled mess that I would love to rewrite for the author, but alas, I don’t have time for that. I’ve got too many other books to read this year.
My biggest complaint about this book is that there were too many characters shuffling in and out of the sisters’ lives. Too many villains wishing them ill and plotting to ruin them, and too many wanna-be heroes trying to rescue them from any peril or save them from themselves. It’s not real life. Most people that come into our lives don’t fall into either category. Not everyone in our lives picks a side. They aren’t all either for us or against us. The fact is that most people don’t care one way or the other. They stay on the periphery, uninvolved in our lives. These types of everyday characters were absent here, and it struck me as odd.
May 31, 2017
A.J. Aalto, author of the popular Marnie Baranuik paranormal fantasy series, offers her readers A Closet Full of Bones, her first psychological thriller. I knew upon reading the first sentence—“She had the dump site picked out before she’d made up her mind to kill him.”—that I was in for an entertaining ride. I wasn’t disappointed. What an impressive debut.
This is an intricately woven tale with a cast of very interesting and well-developed characters. At the center of it is two sisters who have a lot of secrets between the two of them. As the narrative progresses, the reader is given more and more insight into their lives and their complicated relationship. The author layers this story incredibly well, and with every new detail she provides, with each new character she introduces, the plot thickens. I thought I had it figured out a few different times, but that’s just what A.J. Aalto wanted me to think. She still got me in the end.
No spoilers from this reader. This is one you’ll need to read on your own. I guarantee that it’s well worth it.
This is an intricately woven tale with a cast of very interesting and well-developed characters. At the center of it is two sisters who have a lot of secrets between the two of them. As the narrative progresses, the reader is given more and more insight into their lives and their complicated relationship. The author layers this story incredibly well, and with every new detail she provides, with each new character she introduces, the plot thickens. I thought I had it figured out a few different times, but that’s just what A.J. Aalto wanted me to think. She still got me in the end.
No spoilers from this reader. This is one you’ll need to read on your own. I guarantee that it’s well worth it.
December 31, 2018
WOW - WOW - LOVED IT!! Kept me guessing every step of the way!!
Gillian Hearth and her sister Frankie were about to embark on their dream of owning their own Bed & Breakfast by purchasing a home on Higgins Point. The property was close to the beach and in a great location. It would be a great hideaway for authors and artists to spend time to get the creative juices flowing. Since Gillian’s husband was killed in the line of duty and Frankie was divorced from her husband, this was the perfect time to buy the property. Frankie was dating Travis Freeman. However, Travis was moving too quickly in their relationship and trying to move into her home. He was very possessive and trying to take over her entire life. He didn’t want Frankie to spend time with her sister either. Frankie asked Gillian what she should do. Gillian suggested that she should do what made her happy. Frankie decided to terminate the relationship. This breakup caused Travis to stalk her endlessly with obsessive text and phone calls, as well as following her everywhere. Gillian hired an retired cop to investigate Travis. If this wasn’t enough, Bobby McIntyre, a former friend of Frankie’s shows up. Gillian didn’t think it was a good idea for Frankie to rekindle their friend relationship, since Bobby was not a very good role model. Bobby and Frankie both had a drinking problem, and Bobby was always getting the two of them in trouble. Frankie had finally gotten sober and having Bobby around was not in either of their best interest. How could they get rid of Bobby? Both of Gillian and Frankie’s homes are broken into, but why? Threatening text messages are being sent to Gillian’s phone, and paper messages are being left on Gillian’s car. Who’s doing this? Why are these messages being directed to Gillian? What is the secret the sisters are trying to keep covered? Did Frankie write anything about the secret in her diaries? Even after having a security system put in Frankie’s home, someone broke in and stole the diaries? Who broke in? Should Gillian be worried, especially since Dean Jagger, a police officer had been assigned to a missing persons cold case. Will he find the missing person? Would this missing person have anything to do with the sister’s secret? What a great psychological thriller this book is. Just when the reader thinks they know who the culprit is, there is a huge shift in the plot, redirecting the reader. This happens quite a few times in the book, causing the reader to keep guessing. The scenes were very graphic and the reader could almost experience what was actually happening in the book. The character development was exceptional, and the reader could relate to the emotions and feelings of the characters. The ending was definitely not what I expected! You won’t be sorry purchasing this book!!! I loved it!!
Gillian Hearth and her sister Frankie were about to embark on their dream of owning their own Bed & Breakfast by purchasing a home on Higgins Point. The property was close to the beach and in a great location. It would be a great hideaway for authors and artists to spend time to get the creative juices flowing. Since Gillian’s husband was killed in the line of duty and Frankie was divorced from her husband, this was the perfect time to buy the property. Frankie was dating Travis Freeman. However, Travis was moving too quickly in their relationship and trying to move into her home. He was very possessive and trying to take over her entire life. He didn’t want Frankie to spend time with her sister either. Frankie asked Gillian what she should do. Gillian suggested that she should do what made her happy. Frankie decided to terminate the relationship. This breakup caused Travis to stalk her endlessly with obsessive text and phone calls, as well as following her everywhere. Gillian hired an retired cop to investigate Travis. If this wasn’t enough, Bobby McIntyre, a former friend of Frankie’s shows up. Gillian didn’t think it was a good idea for Frankie to rekindle their friend relationship, since Bobby was not a very good role model. Bobby and Frankie both had a drinking problem, and Bobby was always getting the two of them in trouble. Frankie had finally gotten sober and having Bobby around was not in either of their best interest. How could they get rid of Bobby? Both of Gillian and Frankie’s homes are broken into, but why? Threatening text messages are being sent to Gillian’s phone, and paper messages are being left on Gillian’s car. Who’s doing this? Why are these messages being directed to Gillian? What is the secret the sisters are trying to keep covered? Did Frankie write anything about the secret in her diaries? Even after having a security system put in Frankie’s home, someone broke in and stole the diaries? Who broke in? Should Gillian be worried, especially since Dean Jagger, a police officer had been assigned to a missing persons cold case. Will he find the missing person? Would this missing person have anything to do with the sister’s secret? What a great psychological thriller this book is. Just when the reader thinks they know who the culprit is, there is a huge shift in the plot, redirecting the reader. This happens quite a few times in the book, causing the reader to keep guessing. The scenes were very graphic and the reader could almost experience what was actually happening in the book. The character development was exceptional, and the reader could relate to the emotions and feelings of the characters. The ending was definitely not what I expected! You won’t be sorry purchasing this book!!! I loved it!!
January 4, 2022
DNF. The language and content disgusted me, immediate dnf.
August 12, 2019
Hidden bones
The plot of the story was smooth. The ending was surprising. A lot of intrigue from unexpected people who were using other vulnerable people to do their dirty work by playing on their emotional weakness.
The plot of the story was smooth. The ending was surprising. A lot of intrigue from unexpected people who were using other vulnerable people to do their dirty work by playing on their emotional weakness.
February 12, 2018
Short Take: Disappointed!
Having read enough crime fiction, the only reason I go back to reading it is because, every author has a way of wrapping the mystery details in a way that is engaging for the reader to enjoy and find clues and race to the finish, hoping that they are right in their deductions. It is as much fun to a reader as it is to the writer, to play with the characters and plot line, leaving the macabre details aside. And sometimes, I end up wasting my time.
This novel just put me off - it did not engage me enough to grasp what is going on most of the time. And the narration, for me, left a lot to be desired. I could not connect with the characters or plot line and hence it was too darn difficult to finish the book!! :(
The plot line is simple - as with the title - hidden secrets in the closet have a way of coming back to haunt. Two sisters, one with a strong protective instinct, having played a mother for a long time and the other who wants to live a life - both guarding secrets that could potentially destroy their lives and someone out there, knows that secret. Now, we all know, two can keep a secret, if one of them is dead !:) And since that did not happen, it is just a matter of time for them to come out. And again, the title is a give away as to what is the secret. The rest of the story, should have been about a map as to who gains what with the exposure of this secret? Why was it a secret in the first place? But, alas, it had so much going on with too many annoying coincidences, that it was just a bit too much for me in the end!!
May be, just may be, I could not give this a chance when it took better part of a quarter of a book to get on with the story line!! :) Perhaps, others might have patience with this novel, unlike me!!
If you do happen to pick the book, hope you have a better time reading it than I did!
Having read enough crime fiction, the only reason I go back to reading it is because, every author has a way of wrapping the mystery details in a way that is engaging for the reader to enjoy and find clues and race to the finish, hoping that they are right in their deductions. It is as much fun to a reader as it is to the writer, to play with the characters and plot line, leaving the macabre details aside. And sometimes, I end up wasting my time.
This novel just put me off - it did not engage me enough to grasp what is going on most of the time. And the narration, for me, left a lot to be desired. I could not connect with the characters or plot line and hence it was too darn difficult to finish the book!! :(
The plot line is simple - as with the title - hidden secrets in the closet have a way of coming back to haunt. Two sisters, one with a strong protective instinct, having played a mother for a long time and the other who wants to live a life - both guarding secrets that could potentially destroy their lives and someone out there, knows that secret. Now, we all know, two can keep a secret, if one of them is dead !:) And since that did not happen, it is just a matter of time for them to come out. And again, the title is a give away as to what is the secret. The rest of the story, should have been about a map as to who gains what with the exposure of this secret? Why was it a secret in the first place? But, alas, it had so much going on with too many annoying coincidences, that it was just a bit too much for me in the end!!
May be, just may be, I could not give this a chance when it took better part of a quarter of a book to get on with the story line!! :) Perhaps, others might have patience with this novel, unlike me!!
If you do happen to pick the book, hope you have a better time reading it than I did!
August 22, 2018
A good read
I would give it a five stars review happily but I usually like to get something else from the books I read, this book has a good narrative, and incredible story-line, good characters, drama, it has it all except for this little thing that I love, I usually, even in fantasy books, like to take some words, even if they're just a simple phrase and keep it to myself as something I want to cherish for life, a way to take a little piece of the author and his art with me because I consider that's the way art should be appreciated, and I just couldn't find those words, I know it could be there even if it is a mystery book but I couldn't place it, I loved that it was very realistic, every character has a truthful personality even if they are made of lies, didn't see the end coming even though I tried and thought hard about who might be the one behind the curtains of the facts, and really really loved that in the end, Gillian was real to herself, deciding to open up her closet even though she knew it wouldn't be easy, nor she would get out clean from it all, the perfect exemplification of our human nature, because we constantly try to make it right, to protect the ones we love, and to build a happy bright future with them, but somehow always along the way, we are lead to burry some bones and sometimes even more than once.
I would give it a five stars review happily but I usually like to get something else from the books I read, this book has a good narrative, and incredible story-line, good characters, drama, it has it all except for this little thing that I love, I usually, even in fantasy books, like to take some words, even if they're just a simple phrase and keep it to myself as something I want to cherish for life, a way to take a little piece of the author and his art with me because I consider that's the way art should be appreciated, and I just couldn't find those words, I know it could be there even if it is a mystery book but I couldn't place it, I loved that it was very realistic, every character has a truthful personality even if they are made of lies, didn't see the end coming even though I tried and thought hard about who might be the one behind the curtains of the facts, and really really loved that in the end, Gillian was real to herself, deciding to open up her closet even though she knew it wouldn't be easy, nor she would get out clean from it all, the perfect exemplification of our human nature, because we constantly try to make it right, to protect the ones we love, and to build a happy bright future with them, but somehow always along the way, we are lead to burry some bones and sometimes even more than once.
June 13, 2017
My Impressions: The character of Gillian has a very unique voice…an odd mixture of sarcasm and macabre which is what first peeked my interest. Lots of characters (too many, I think) and we see a variety of different POVs. The characters are introduced fairly quickly. I had to make a list to keep them straight since I had no way to know who was important and who wasn’t.
Bones, Thugs-n-Disharmony: OMG…Frankie has no normal people around her besides her sister. Which begs the question…Is Frankie normal herself? She has to be a little nuts to attract the crowd that she does. Travis, the crazy stalker ex. she just broke up with won’t leave her or Gillian alone…non-stop phone calls, texts, creepy notes, home invasions, etc. But the sisters hesitate to call the police because of Mike, a previously abusive ex-fiance’ of Frankie’s, whose disappearance and presumed death the sisters’ are implicated in. (The body was never found). Aaron, yet another crazy ex-boyfriend of Frankie’s has transferred his weird affections to Gillian and thus she acquires a stalker ex that’s not even hers! And still that’s not all. There’s also Henry, Frankie’s gambling ex-husband (he’s a loon too). And last but not least, toxic ex-friend Bobby, the only female of the group, but no less certifiable. She too, has a weird fixation on Frankie.
All of Frankie’s relationships are unhealthy in some weird or bizarre way. Even her relationship with Gillian. She is totally co-dependent and Gillian is an enabler. Neither makes any attempt to cut the cord…which results in tragedy. The whole situation could have been avoided with some tough love early on. But alas, I digress.
Twisted Logic: It becomes more and more difficult to have sympathy for either Frankie or Gillian because so much of their increasingly precarious situation(s) is self-inflicted…brought on by not just one, but a long string of inexplicably stupid decisions. A level of stupid which cannot be explained away by fear, intoxication, naiveté or any one of a hundred legitimate excuses. They just do stupid things for no reason….either that or they are both mentally impaired.
Why is Gillian buying pain-killers on the black market when she could simply get Vicodin, Codeine…and any other pain-killing cocktail from a pain management doctor legally with a prescription and as many refills as she needs? I get that she’s kinda hooked on them, but still she has a chronic condition (shoulder injury) which causes pain…not to mention the migraines on top of that (which are also a very legitimate reason by any medical standards for a prescription.) Makes no sense to me. Ok, perhaps there are no migraines…and the headaches are really just withdrawal from her pill habit. That would make more sense actually. Also, why is she buying a gun illegally??? Why not just get a permit to carry and purchase a legal firearm??? There is a guy actively stalking her and her sister?? There’s evidence (text threats, phone calls, hand-written notes)…and the dude has a prior record of stalking his ex-wife. Call the bloody police and get a restraining order. Hell, Gillian is the widow of a police officer killed in the line of duty for goodness sake! They would probably help her shop around for the right gun. Even if she shoots the guy…who’s going to question it with his record? They’d probably throw her a party.
And Frankie makes even less sense. Her bohemian flightiness can only account for so much. Why would she write down details of a manslaughter and body dump in her diaries??? And then not hide or destroy them when she knows that this crazy ex-boyfriend knows about them…and the manslaughter? They’re just lying around her place waiting to be stolen. (Ever heard of a safe deposit box?) Why does everyone and their dog know that Frankie keeps a diary…knows where they are…and have easy access to her house?? Everyone except the people who should logically know. The police obvious don’t know because they didn’t ask to see them during the original investigation. And Gillian, her sister, doesn’t appear to know even though she is the one who originally gave her the first one as a gift. Their relationship is such that they are very tight, Frankie is highly dependent on Gillian, calls her for everything, blah blah blah…yet she doesn’t know she keeps a diary? But some boyfriend who’s only been around a few months knows? Bobby, the drunken basket-case friend, knows. *Shakes head* How is Frankie not already the victim of crime with her dangerously open lifestyle?
The Creep Factor: Very high. As far as the characters go, I don’t know who was the creepiest…Aaron, Travis or Bobby! Honorable mention goes to Mrs. Blymhill, a horder who collected dead rats and kept jars of her own urine. (Of course, to be fair it would have been even creepier if the urine *hadn’t* been hers. ewww!) In addition to the characters themselves, there’s an oppressive atmosphere to the entire story. The foliage, soil, and the weather. Just the way the author describes things are disturbing in a subtle way. Gillian’s weird fixation on a certain type of rose and her visits to different sites in the woods marked by the roses…totally gave me the creeps. Gillian works as a groundskeeper at a graveyard/cemetery, so throw that in the mix…*shudder*.
Random Thoughts: 1. I almost wish there was a supernatural element to this story, because otherwise I have to keep reminding myself that this is just a book. 2. Why on earth does everyone have their sights set on either Gillian or Frankie? Are they the only two women in town?
The Verdict: The goings-on in the book are morbidly fascinating…and with the exception of a few too many typos, very well written. It will certainly please lovers of macabre mystery thrillers.
Bones, Thugs-n-Disharmony: OMG…Frankie has no normal people around her besides her sister. Which begs the question…Is Frankie normal herself? She has to be a little nuts to attract the crowd that she does. Travis, the crazy stalker ex. she just broke up with won’t leave her or Gillian alone…non-stop phone calls, texts, creepy notes, home invasions, etc. But the sisters hesitate to call the police because of Mike, a previously abusive ex-fiance’ of Frankie’s, whose disappearance and presumed death the sisters’ are implicated in. (The body was never found). Aaron, yet another crazy ex-boyfriend of Frankie’s has transferred his weird affections to Gillian and thus she acquires a stalker ex that’s not even hers! And still that’s not all. There’s also Henry, Frankie’s gambling ex-husband (he’s a loon too). And last but not least, toxic ex-friend Bobby, the only female of the group, but no less certifiable. She too, has a weird fixation on Frankie.
All of Frankie’s relationships are unhealthy in some weird or bizarre way. Even her relationship with Gillian. She is totally co-dependent and Gillian is an enabler. Neither makes any attempt to cut the cord…which results in tragedy. The whole situation could have been avoided with some tough love early on. But alas, I digress.
Twisted Logic: It becomes more and more difficult to have sympathy for either Frankie or Gillian because so much of their increasingly precarious situation(s) is self-inflicted…brought on by not just one, but a long string of inexplicably stupid decisions. A level of stupid which cannot be explained away by fear, intoxication, naiveté or any one of a hundred legitimate excuses. They just do stupid things for no reason….either that or they are both mentally impaired.
Why is Gillian buying pain-killers on the black market when she could simply get Vicodin, Codeine…and any other pain-killing cocktail from a pain management doctor legally with a prescription and as many refills as she needs? I get that she’s kinda hooked on them, but still she has a chronic condition (shoulder injury) which causes pain…not to mention the migraines on top of that (which are also a very legitimate reason by any medical standards for a prescription.) Makes no sense to me. Ok, perhaps there are no migraines…and the headaches are really just withdrawal from her pill habit. That would make more sense actually. Also, why is she buying a gun illegally??? Why not just get a permit to carry and purchase a legal firearm??? There is a guy actively stalking her and her sister?? There’s evidence (text threats, phone calls, hand-written notes)…and the dude has a prior record of stalking his ex-wife. Call the bloody police and get a restraining order. Hell, Gillian is the widow of a police officer killed in the line of duty for goodness sake! They would probably help her shop around for the right gun. Even if she shoots the guy…who’s going to question it with his record? They’d probably throw her a party.
And Frankie makes even less sense. Her bohemian flightiness can only account for so much. Why would she write down details of a manslaughter and body dump in her diaries??? And then not hide or destroy them when she knows that this crazy ex-boyfriend knows about them…and the manslaughter? They’re just lying around her place waiting to be stolen. (Ever heard of a safe deposit box?) Why does everyone and their dog know that Frankie keeps a diary…knows where they are…and have easy access to her house?? Everyone except the people who should logically know. The police obvious don’t know because they didn’t ask to see them during the original investigation. And Gillian, her sister, doesn’t appear to know even though she is the one who originally gave her the first one as a gift. Their relationship is such that they are very tight, Frankie is highly dependent on Gillian, calls her for everything, blah blah blah…yet she doesn’t know she keeps a diary? But some boyfriend who’s only been around a few months knows? Bobby, the drunken basket-case friend, knows. *Shakes head* How is Frankie not already the victim of crime with her dangerously open lifestyle?
The Creep Factor: Very high. As far as the characters go, I don’t know who was the creepiest…Aaron, Travis or Bobby! Honorable mention goes to Mrs. Blymhill, a horder who collected dead rats and kept jars of her own urine. (Of course, to be fair it would have been even creepier if the urine *hadn’t* been hers. ewww!) In addition to the characters themselves, there’s an oppressive atmosphere to the entire story. The foliage, soil, and the weather. Just the way the author describes things are disturbing in a subtle way. Gillian’s weird fixation on a certain type of rose and her visits to different sites in the woods marked by the roses…totally gave me the creeps. Gillian works as a groundskeeper at a graveyard/cemetery, so throw that in the mix…*shudder*.
Random Thoughts: 1. I almost wish there was a supernatural element to this story, because otherwise I have to keep reminding myself that this is just a book. 2. Why on earth does everyone have their sights set on either Gillian or Frankie? Are they the only two women in town?
The Verdict: The goings-on in the book are morbidly fascinating…and with the exception of a few too many typos, very well written. It will certainly please lovers of macabre mystery thrillers.
March 5, 2018
Closet Full of Bones by A.J.Aalto is an intriguing story of two sisters and the impact their secrets have on their lives. While I enjoyed the story and the characters, I found both the sisters to be somewhat one note. Frankie is flighty and emotionally crippled. Gillian is stern and emotionally crippled.
To be fair, most of the characters are 'something' and emotionally crippled, to be honest.
The story has a lot of twists that don't seem to come to anything, and the list of possible 'who-is-its' is long and winding with the ending seeming to come out of the blue. I have a problem with stories that throw a handful of suspects at you and yet throw in a meaningless and unanswered twist in the end.
All in all, I did enjoy the story, and it kept me engaged. I just think more could've been done with such a strong premise. Excellent book for a long commute to work.
To be fair, most of the characters are 'something' and emotionally crippled, to be honest.
The story has a lot of twists that don't seem to come to anything, and the list of possible 'who-is-its' is long and winding with the ending seeming to come out of the blue. I have a problem with stories that throw a handful of suspects at you and yet throw in a meaningless and unanswered twist in the end.
All in all, I did enjoy the story, and it kept me engaged. I just think more could've been done with such a strong premise. Excellent book for a long commute to work.
September 20, 2018
At last! A book that actually scared me! This book had me double checking locks, smelling my coffee before drinking, checking my rearview mirror while driving... So many disturbed characters in one book! Loved it!
October 2, 2022
Closet Full of Bones is a book that will take you for quite the ride. How much you enjoy that ride will depend though. While Closet Full of Bones takes you on a twisty turny ride that made you wonder what exactly was going on for a good portion of the book, it has enough faults that make the ride not all that smooth.
You start out the book thinking that two sisters, Gillian and Frankie Hearth, are being harassed by one of Frankie's ex-boyfriends, Travis Freeman. So as they attempt to deal with this by hiring a private investigator, you quickly get the sense that their is more going on both in the present, but also in the past of the sistsers. As the book continues you figure out more of what is going on and also what went on years ago in the lives of the sisters.
In terms of plot and the mystery element of it, there were aspects that I totally figured out, but other parts that I just didn't have a clue on. So I did enjoy this aspect of the book, unfortunately one aspect I didn't really enjoy were the characters.
Let's start off by saying that I didn't dislike all of the characters. I did mostly like Gillian, although I felt she fell into the category of not as smart as she's portrayed. She makes a lot of really stupid decisions over the course of the book that just didn't really make a lot of sense to me. Also did like some of the other characters like the private detective and the cold case detective that comes in part way through the story.
The problem I have is that too much of the cast winds up being unhinged or just really stupid. Frankie is perhaps the most flighty character I've ever read in a book like this and annoyed me so much with her lack of sense, lack of backbone, and absolutely terrible taste in men. Also with the number of unhinged characters you're just kind of like what the heck by the end of the book. How is there so much murderous crazy in these two sisters' lives. It is all a bit much.
I think that's my biggest problem with this book. With the story that it sets out to tell, it is done in an interesting way that leaves you guessing until the final chapters. However, the story just fell a bit flat to me. There were too many bad decisions that didn't always seem in line with the characters. There were just too many people with sinister motivations by the end, with one being randomly introduced like two-thirds of the way through the book, and didn't really serve that much purpose other than to make the ending all the more chaotic.
With all the chaos I would have liked to have known a bit more of who had done what in the harassment of the sisters. They throw so many potential people out there that by the end you're left wondering who exactly did what. You get a bit of explanation, but not as much as I might have liked.
Overall, I don't think Closet Full of Bones is a bad book. It certainly presents a wild ride, but the ride has some bumps and isn't nearly as smooth as it could have been. I just didn't quite enjoy the characters very much, and even the ones that I did enjoy had some parts that just didn't make sense with the character that we were presented with. Granted if people made the smart decisions in line with their character, this book and the events wouldn't have existed.
You start out the book thinking that two sisters, Gillian and Frankie Hearth, are being harassed by one of Frankie's ex-boyfriends, Travis Freeman. So as they attempt to deal with this by hiring a private investigator, you quickly get the sense that their is more going on both in the present, but also in the past of the sistsers. As the book continues you figure out more of what is going on and also what went on years ago in the lives of the sisters.
In terms of plot and the mystery element of it, there were aspects that I totally figured out, but other parts that I just didn't have a clue on. So I did enjoy this aspect of the book, unfortunately one aspect I didn't really enjoy were the characters.
Let's start off by saying that I didn't dislike all of the characters. I did mostly like Gillian, although I felt she fell into the category of not as smart as she's portrayed. She makes a lot of really stupid decisions over the course of the book that just didn't really make a lot of sense to me. Also did like some of the other characters like the private detective and the cold case detective that comes in part way through the story.
The problem I have is that too much of the cast winds up being unhinged or just really stupid. Frankie is perhaps the most flighty character I've ever read in a book like this and annoyed me so much with her lack of sense, lack of backbone, and absolutely terrible taste in men. Also with the number of unhinged characters you're just kind of like what the heck by the end of the book. How is there so much murderous crazy in these two sisters' lives. It is all a bit much.
I think that's my biggest problem with this book. With the story that it sets out to tell, it is done in an interesting way that leaves you guessing until the final chapters. However, the story just fell a bit flat to me. There were too many bad decisions that didn't always seem in line with the characters. There were just too many people with sinister motivations by the end, with one being randomly introduced like two-thirds of the way through the book, and didn't really serve that much purpose other than to make the ending all the more chaotic.
With all the chaos I would have liked to have known a bit more of who had done what in the harassment of the sisters. They throw so many potential people out there that by the end you're left wondering who exactly did what. You get a bit of explanation, but not as much as I might have liked.
Overall, I don't think Closet Full of Bones is a bad book. It certainly presents a wild ride, but the ride has some bumps and isn't nearly as smooth as it could have been. I just didn't quite enjoy the characters very much, and even the ones that I did enjoy had some parts that just didn't make sense with the character that we were presented with. Granted if people made the smart decisions in line with their character, this book and the events wouldn't have existed.
January 17, 2018
So many books out there advertise themselves as sensational, intriguing and chocked full of surprises. The problem is sometime I don't like any of the characters in these books. A prime example of this is "Gone Girl." However, "Closet Full of Bones" truly is a suspenseful and thrilling read about two sisters whose life is filled with perpetual distress and mayhem.
Frankie is a hopeless romantic who is constantly picking the wrong man. You know the kind of man, the ones who turn into stalkers and looney tunes. Of course it doesn't help that she drinks obsessively and she has a female friend who is one fry short of a happy meal. Then, there is her sister Gillian who always manages to keep a level head and comes to Frankie's rescue. Life for Gillian hasn't been easy especially since her police officer husband's death. Now she is trying to reinvent her life by opening up a bread and breakfast from an old home previously owned by an eccentric older woman.
When a cop stumbles tries to close the case of a missing man, he becomes hot on the trail of Gillian. What he suspects and what he can prove are two different things. Things are about to become very interesting and complicated in the lives of these sisters. The problem is trying to figure out exactly what is going on and who is behind it. This is truly a fabulous psychological thriller worthy of Alfred Hitchcock. I thoroughly enjoy it. I've read other novels by A.J. Aalto but nothing along the lines of this! I will have to check out and see what other novels the author has along these lines. Definitely one to put on your to read list.
Frankie is a hopeless romantic who is constantly picking the wrong man. You know the kind of man, the ones who turn into stalkers and looney tunes. Of course it doesn't help that she drinks obsessively and she has a female friend who is one fry short of a happy meal. Then, there is her sister Gillian who always manages to keep a level head and comes to Frankie's rescue. Life for Gillian hasn't been easy especially since her police officer husband's death. Now she is trying to reinvent her life by opening up a bread and breakfast from an old home previously owned by an eccentric older woman.
When a cop stumbles tries to close the case of a missing man, he becomes hot on the trail of Gillian. What he suspects and what he can prove are two different things. Things are about to become very interesting and complicated in the lives of these sisters. The problem is trying to figure out exactly what is going on and who is behind it. This is truly a fabulous psychological thriller worthy of Alfred Hitchcock. I thoroughly enjoy it. I've read other novels by A.J. Aalto but nothing along the lines of this! I will have to check out and see what other novels the author has along these lines. Definitely one to put on your to read list.
August 16, 2021
“Those are pretty,” he said.
Gillian felt a little smile twitch her lips. It felt smug. She heard herself say, “Funeral flowers so rarely include Freesia. It’s a nice touch, don’t you think?”
Bruce’s shoulders went up, and he rolled his neck.
The policeman observed her for a long beat, his gaze calculating. She met his eyes with something approaching serenity, though she knew this was a trick her mind was playing on her. A dark shape had taken over, and she was happy to release responsibility to it; it would take care of things now. SOON. She sat ignoring her tea, daring the cop to read her mind if he could. There was nothing he could do to stop her. Not a damn thing. That smug twitch of a smile made an appearance again, and she reached her fingertips up to touch it, amazed at it.
i will clarify that it's not the perfect book. there were so many different plot points, so many things to keep track of, where i think the entire story would have hit harder if things were a little more what they seemed. because what was implied was horrifying enough. you know ?
but then the pacing ramped itself up so nail-bitingly / gillian was riveting / the writing was spectacular / everything felt familiar & horrifying & bloody & awful.
so yeah, it's still pretty great.
January 17, 2019
I've ended up packing this in at 65%. It just got more and more farfetched and unbelievable for me and has too many mistakes. One or the other, perhaps, and I'd have soldiered on till the bitter end but with both issues I'd seen enough.
Both sisters got on my bloody nerves. They were always ill or feeling sick and were therefore pretty insipid characters. Frankie also came across as a bit of a tart, I thought. Both told lies at the drop of a hat, even to people on their side !! It was when I reached a point where Gillian hadn't told Paul about a break-in that I totally lost all patience with her, her sickly, tarty sister and HER bonkers friend altogether.
This author hasn't a clue when it comes to using apostrophes properly, either. Girl's night, artist's retreat, kid's day care and detective's club are just a few examples.
At one point she wrote Gillian when she meant Frankie, I had no idea what the "joke" was supposed to be regarding the bakery, she used to and not too (which is basic English), I don't think describing a bungalow as "aggressively nondescript" makes a lot of sense, she wrote tip and not top, is and not his, head and not headed, I'm and not I am (and it did matter because someone had asked if she was alright and she supposedly answered with "I don't think I'm").....it was all too annoying for me in the end.
Both sisters got on my bloody nerves. They were always ill or feeling sick and were therefore pretty insipid characters. Frankie also came across as a bit of a tart, I thought. Both told lies at the drop of a hat, even to people on their side !! It was when I reached a point where Gillian hadn't told Paul about a break-in that I totally lost all patience with her, her sickly, tarty sister and HER bonkers friend altogether.
This author hasn't a clue when it comes to using apostrophes properly, either. Girl's night, artist's retreat, kid's day care and detective's club are just a few examples.
At one point she wrote Gillian when she meant Frankie, I had no idea what the "joke" was supposed to be regarding the bakery, she used to and not too (which is basic English), I don't think describing a bungalow as "aggressively nondescript" makes a lot of sense, she wrote tip and not top, is and not his, head and not headed, I'm and not I am (and it did matter because someone had asked if she was alright and she supposedly answered with "I don't think I'm").....it was all too annoying for me in the end.
October 8, 2018
I already wrote a review for this book but it was a rushed thing that didn't make it justice so here goes the real one.
4.5
They say one shouldn't judge a book by its cover, and sometimes that's useful, but for me, most times it's the other way around, if the cover is good, the book will be even better, and this was one of those times, the narrative was amazing, I loved every description in the story, places, people, emotions, everything, and the fact that Frankie's ex husband was the master brain behind it all surprised me way too much, so the book it's perfectly intertwined to keep you reading till the end. It adds points to the book, that this is partially based on true events, so whoever who went through this kind of experience or something alike, it's worth an enormous amount of admiration, and that's the way I felt about Gillian, she fought till the end to protect her sister, even more than she did to protect her own life, she was loyal, smart, and very very real, because in the end, we all have some secrets, some mistakes, some bones inside our closets.
Favorite quotes:
«Frankie had always been quick to laugh, quick to love, quick to cry.»
«Live's short, live a little.»
4.5
They say one shouldn't judge a book by its cover, and sometimes that's useful, but for me, most times it's the other way around, if the cover is good, the book will be even better, and this was one of those times, the narrative was amazing, I loved every description in the story, places, people, emotions, everything, and the fact that Frankie's ex husband was the master brain behind it all surprised me way too much, so the book it's perfectly intertwined to keep you reading till the end. It adds points to the book, that this is partially based on true events, so whoever who went through this kind of experience or something alike, it's worth an enormous amount of admiration, and that's the way I felt about Gillian, she fought till the end to protect her sister, even more than she did to protect her own life, she was loyal, smart, and very very real, because in the end, we all have some secrets, some mistakes, some bones inside our closets.
Favorite quotes:
«Frankie had always been quick to laugh, quick to love, quick to cry.»
«Live's short, live a little.»
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2018
I loved this book. The writing was great. And the tale intriguing. It will be hard to do a review without giving away any spoilers though...
Two sisters one a bit flighty, Franky, and the other level headed, Gillian, endeavor to open a bed and breakfast that will cater to artists. They manage to land a huge old Victorian for the retreat and it looks as though all will go as planned. Until an ex of Franky's starts to stir up trouble. Harassing phone calls and texts, threats, and some disgusting 'gifts' put the sisters on edge. Still they persevere. But as the story deepens we learn there are some serious skeletons in the sister's closet and they must do everything they can to keep them hidden. More threats from within and without drive them both to the edge.
Along the way there are plenty of twists and turns and things you didn't see coming. Definitely a page turner and a great read.
My only problem now is that it looks like the author's other books are horror and I don't read horror. I hope she decides to write another book like Closet Full of Bones (huh, just got the title - too funny) soon.
Two sisters one a bit flighty, Franky, and the other level headed, Gillian, endeavor to open a bed and breakfast that will cater to artists. They manage to land a huge old Victorian for the retreat and it looks as though all will go as planned. Until an ex of Franky's starts to stir up trouble. Harassing phone calls and texts, threats, and some disgusting 'gifts' put the sisters on edge. Still they persevere. But as the story deepens we learn there are some serious skeletons in the sister's closet and they must do everything they can to keep them hidden. More threats from within and without drive them both to the edge.
Along the way there are plenty of twists and turns and things you didn't see coming. Definitely a page turner and a great read.
My only problem now is that it looks like the author's other books are horror and I don't read horror. I hope she decides to write another book like Closet Full of Bones (huh, just got the title - too funny) soon.
February 15, 2018
Frankie and Gillian buy a house to restore
And turn into a bed and break fast for artists. Frankie is being stalked and harassed by an ex-boyfriend and an old friend has turned up to help her through her “hard” time, but her help is not wanted. Gillian is her sister’s rock, she has always been there to help here out through all the hard times, and there have been several. Paul, a private investigator, and former partner of Gillian’s dead police detective husband, has been hired by a Frankie, to check on Travis, the stalking, harassing ex. Gillian is also being looked into by a local police regarding a cold case disappearance/murder of another one of Frankie’s exes.
Lots of interesting twists and turns. Good writing style. Sudden ending, everything seemed to be wrapped up in 2 1/2 pages. Slightly disappointed in the ending.
And turn into a bed and break fast for artists. Frankie is being stalked and harassed by an ex-boyfriend and an old friend has turned up to help her through her “hard” time, but her help is not wanted. Gillian is her sister’s rock, she has always been there to help here out through all the hard times, and there have been several. Paul, a private investigator, and former partner of Gillian’s dead police detective husband, has been hired by a Frankie, to check on Travis, the stalking, harassing ex. Gillian is also being looked into by a local police regarding a cold case disappearance/murder of another one of Frankie’s exes.
Lots of interesting twists and turns. Good writing style. Sudden ending, everything seemed to be wrapped up in 2 1/2 pages. Slightly disappointed in the ending.
January 23, 2019
I can't quite put my finger on why I liked this book so much, but I did. The main character Gillian was interesting to me. I did not see the ending coming - always nice to have a twist.
December 17, 2021
Quirky and Confounding
The main characters in this book, sisters Gillian and Frankie were so quirky as to be compelling, and I couldn’t stop reading once I started. The plot unfolds like an Agatha Christie story, with characters who partially reveal themselves, partially share what they know. And there’s a strong sense of intersecting missions among the police, the private investigator, Gillian, Frankie, and the bad guy(?), the crazy friend(?), the obsessed cemetery worker(?). Who is the stalker? What happened to Deacon? And why are there bear traps, dead rats, and jars of urine at Gillian and Frankie’s Dream House? So many questions, quirks, and confounding characters! An entertaining read.
The main characters in this book, sisters Gillian and Frankie were so quirky as to be compelling, and I couldn’t stop reading once I started. The plot unfolds like an Agatha Christie story, with characters who partially reveal themselves, partially share what they know. And there’s a strong sense of intersecting missions among the police, the private investigator, Gillian, Frankie, and the bad guy(?), the crazy friend(?), the obsessed cemetery worker(?). Who is the stalker? What happened to Deacon? And why are there bear traps, dead rats, and jars of urine at Gillian and Frankie’s Dream House? So many questions, quirks, and confounding characters! An entertaining read.
July 22, 2017
Although it is difficult to tell from the first few chapters, this book is the story of Gillian and Frankie, sisters who are very close. Frankie is the flighty one, beautiful and always choosing the wrong man. Gillian is more steadfast, the widow of a cop.
There are skeletons in these sisters' closets, and danger in their present, but from whom? Is it Bobby, the neurotic former friend of Frankie with the need to be needed? Or Aaron, the coworker of Gillian with a huge and inappropriate crush on her? Or from Travis, Frankie's controlling ex-boyfriend? Or even someone else?
Full of complex characters, and story-lines this is a compelling mystery with an unexpected conclusion.
There are skeletons in these sisters' closets, and danger in their present, but from whom? Is it Bobby, the neurotic former friend of Frankie with the need to be needed? Or Aaron, the coworker of Gillian with a huge and inappropriate crush on her? Or from Travis, Frankie's controlling ex-boyfriend? Or even someone else?
Full of complex characters, and story-lines this is a compelling mystery with an unexpected conclusion.
March 16, 2018
Who is the real murder and who is really behind it all
Gillian is the brain's and Frankie is the artist so together they would run a place where artist could use as a base. Travis just wanted Frankie back and he blamed Gillian for their break up. Bobbie Frankie's friend also wanted Frankie but for herself. The girls had a secret they share or so Gillian thought. Frankie wrote everything down in a journal yes everything. A must read story. Will Gillian survive? Who really killed Mike Deacon? Will Frankie tell Gillian the truth? Will Bruce really wait for her? So many question's so much to this story. Recommended a good mystery strong characters and a whole lot of fear
Gillian is the brain's and Frankie is the artist so together they would run a place where artist could use as a base. Travis just wanted Frankie back and he blamed Gillian for their break up. Bobbie Frankie's friend also wanted Frankie but for herself. The girls had a secret they share or so Gillian thought. Frankie wrote everything down in a journal yes everything. A must read story. Will Gillian survive? Who really killed Mike Deacon? Will Frankie tell Gillian the truth? Will Bruce really wait for her? So many question's so much to this story. Recommended a good mystery strong characters and a whole lot of fear
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