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Detective Kerri Blasco #4
Shoeless Child
A little boy has seen a horrific murder but is too traumatized to speak. Detective Kerri Blasco struggles to connect with him...
Charlie Sparkes peeks out to see his mother and another young woman brutally shot. Hysterical, the brave child bolts into the cold November night for help. He screams and cries, only to fall into more trauma.
Homicide Detective Kerri Blasco is called to the murder scene. One woman lies dead next to the blood soaked rug where Rachel Sparkes was seriously wounded. With little memory of the attack, she has been taken to the hospital - but where is her child? He too, Kerri discovers, now lies in a hospital bed, mute and traumatized in a fetal position, refusing even food and water.
Charlie must have seen what happened. Kerri's heart aches for this piteous little boy and she struggles to help him; struggles, too to find the monster who did this horrible crime. "It's your kind of case," Sergeant Alex Brand, Kerri's boss and partner tells her, stepping up police urgency when another innocent is shot, and then another.
Kerri Blasco finds herself more emotionally obsessed with this case than with any other, despite clear and onrushing danger to herself...
Charlie Sparkes peeks out to see his mother and another young woman brutally shot. Hysterical, the brave child bolts into the cold November night for help. He screams and cries, only to fall into more trauma.
Homicide Detective Kerri Blasco is called to the murder scene. One woman lies dead next to the blood soaked rug where Rachel Sparkes was seriously wounded. With little memory of the attack, she has been taken to the hospital - but where is her child? He too, Kerri discovers, now lies in a hospital bed, mute and traumatized in a fetal position, refusing even food and water.
Charlie must have seen what happened. Kerri's heart aches for this piteous little boy and she struggles to help him; struggles, too to find the monster who did this horrible crime. "It's your kind of case," Sergeant Alex Brand, Kerri's boss and partner tells her, stepping up police urgency when another innocent is shot, and then another.
Kerri Blasco finds herself more emotionally obsessed with this case than with any other, despite clear and onrushing danger to herself...
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2018
749 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Schneider
17 books572 followersWheaton College, Norton MA (French Lit Major, Minor in Spanish & squeezed in Russian.)
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 6, 2018
What an outstanding episode this one turned out to be! Shoeless Child is the 4th in the Detective Kerri Blasco series, and in my opinion, it’s the author’s best yet.
When five-year-old Charlie Sparkes ran, just like his mother told him, he ran from a bad man who had hurt his mother and her friend, and now wanted to hurt Charlie. He was so frightened but knew he needed to get help for his Mommy – he had to get away from the bad man first though…
Homicide Detective Kerri Blasco had been on desk-duty while recovering from serious injury; her first case back would test her in more ways than one. When she arrived at the house of a murder with her partner, Alex Brand by her side, she was more than a little shocked at the violence. Rachel Sparkes was still alive and was rushed to hospital – but Kerri was horrified to discover she had a child; and he was missing.
But Charlie was at the hospital as well – traumatised and mute, curled up in a ball, he refused to eat or drink. Kerri was heartsick at what this little boy had so obviously been through. Could she help him? She and Alex knew they needed to find the killer fast – but the clues were non-existent; the killer was clever.
As more bodies turned up, the race was on – with Charlie as their only witness, they needed him to talk. But how could they communicate with him when he was so terrified?
I loved Shoeless Child! The action is full-on, the pace is fast, the plot is original – but it's Charlie’s character and story that made the book so much more. Kerri’s interactions with Charlie were filled with compassion, emotion and empathy – her determination to solve the case, whatever the danger to herself, is a characteristic she’s shown in the past; she outdid herself this time. A gritty, intense psychological thriller, Shoeless Child is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
When five-year-old Charlie Sparkes ran, just like his mother told him, he ran from a bad man who had hurt his mother and her friend, and now wanted to hurt Charlie. He was so frightened but knew he needed to get help for his Mommy – he had to get away from the bad man first though…
Homicide Detective Kerri Blasco had been on desk-duty while recovering from serious injury; her first case back would test her in more ways than one. When she arrived at the house of a murder with her partner, Alex Brand by her side, she was more than a little shocked at the violence. Rachel Sparkes was still alive and was rushed to hospital – but Kerri was horrified to discover she had a child; and he was missing.
But Charlie was at the hospital as well – traumatised and mute, curled up in a ball, he refused to eat or drink. Kerri was heartsick at what this little boy had so obviously been through. Could she help him? She and Alex knew they needed to find the killer fast – but the clues were non-existent; the killer was clever.
As more bodies turned up, the race was on – with Charlie as their only witness, they needed him to talk. But how could they communicate with him when he was so terrified?
I loved Shoeless Child! The action is full-on, the pace is fast, the plot is original – but it's Charlie’s character and story that made the book so much more. Kerri’s interactions with Charlie were filled with compassion, emotion and empathy – her determination to solve the case, whatever the danger to herself, is a characteristic she’s shown in the past; she outdid herself this time. A gritty, intense psychological thriller, Shoeless Child is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
January 24, 2018
Book reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
The Shoeless Child opens with a traumatic scene. Five year old Charlie Sparkes is running for his life. He had just witnessed a man wearing a ski mask, gun down his mum and her best friend. The man then tried to grab Charlie and in doing so the little boy pulled down his mask, but was it enough to possibly get a good look at him?
Charlie managed to get away, but the killer gave chase, eventually losing sight of the little boy. Soaked in blood and wearing no shoes, Charlie sought help from two men coming out of the local pub, only to find himself in more danger.
Detective Kerri Blasco is called to the scene of where the women have been shot. She is surprised to hear that Rachel Sparkes (Charlie’s mum) is still alive, though in a critical condition and has been taken to hospital for surgery. Her friend is dead and Charlie is missing.
Eventually Charlie is found and taken to the same hospital as his mum, but he has been badly affected by the ordeals and is not responding to anyone, he is mute and lay in the fetal position. If Kerri is to find the killer she is going to need Charlie’s help, but can she get him to open up to her?
This is the fourth Detective Kerri Blasco novel and the second that I have read. Last year I read book three, Watching You. The first two books Fear Dreams and Her Last Breath, were reviewed on the blog by Nia. What I like about these books is that you are always kept on your toes as the investigations into the crimes are ongoing. There are lots of twists and turns, and red-herrings thrown at you. Plus, the pace of the books makes your heart race.
The Shoeless Child certainly has all of the above, but this time we have a young boy added into the mix, which really pulls at your heart strings. Charlie is a lovely. He has been through so much in his short life and I just wanted to hold him and tell him everything would be okay.
The culprit isn’t revealed until near the end, but as usual with the Detective Kerri Blasco books, there are chapters written through the eyes of the killer, meaning you get an insight into what makes him tick and how he thinks.
All the books can be read as a standalone, but in my personal opinion, it would be best to start at the beginning and get some back story on Kerri, how she works, what she is really like. Plus, you’ll get to read three more amazing novels.
This is a real psychological thriller. I was eager to know why the killer chose Rachel and her friend, if he would find Charlie and his mum and finish the job, would Charlie open up? Lots of questions I needed answers and the only way I was going to get those answers was by finishing the book. So I settled down and raced through it, wanting to get to the final page, whilst at the same time not wanting it to end.
It is exceptionally enjoyable and if you love a good thriller with realistic characters and scenes, then this is one you need to read.
The Shoeless Child opens with a traumatic scene. Five year old Charlie Sparkes is running for his life. He had just witnessed a man wearing a ski mask, gun down his mum and her best friend. The man then tried to grab Charlie and in doing so the little boy pulled down his mask, but was it enough to possibly get a good look at him?
Charlie managed to get away, but the killer gave chase, eventually losing sight of the little boy. Soaked in blood and wearing no shoes, Charlie sought help from two men coming out of the local pub, only to find himself in more danger.
Detective Kerri Blasco is called to the scene of where the women have been shot. She is surprised to hear that Rachel Sparkes (Charlie’s mum) is still alive, though in a critical condition and has been taken to hospital for surgery. Her friend is dead and Charlie is missing.
Eventually Charlie is found and taken to the same hospital as his mum, but he has been badly affected by the ordeals and is not responding to anyone, he is mute and lay in the fetal position. If Kerri is to find the killer she is going to need Charlie’s help, but can she get him to open up to her?
This is the fourth Detective Kerri Blasco novel and the second that I have read. Last year I read book three, Watching You. The first two books Fear Dreams and Her Last Breath, were reviewed on the blog by Nia. What I like about these books is that you are always kept on your toes as the investigations into the crimes are ongoing. There are lots of twists and turns, and red-herrings thrown at you. Plus, the pace of the books makes your heart race.
The Shoeless Child certainly has all of the above, but this time we have a young boy added into the mix, which really pulls at your heart strings. Charlie is a lovely. He has been through so much in his short life and I just wanted to hold him and tell him everything would be okay.
The culprit isn’t revealed until near the end, but as usual with the Detective Kerri Blasco books, there are chapters written through the eyes of the killer, meaning you get an insight into what makes him tick and how he thinks.
All the books can be read as a standalone, but in my personal opinion, it would be best to start at the beginning and get some back story on Kerri, how she works, what she is really like. Plus, you’ll get to read three more amazing novels.
This is a real psychological thriller. I was eager to know why the killer chose Rachel and her friend, if he would find Charlie and his mum and finish the job, would Charlie open up? Lots of questions I needed answers and the only way I was going to get those answers was by finishing the book. So I settled down and raced through it, wanting to get to the final page, whilst at the same time not wanting it to end.
It is exceptionally enjoyable and if you love a good thriller with realistic characters and scenes, then this is one you need to read.
November 27, 2017
The latest of this series brings back Detective Kerri Blasco and her partner, Sergeant Alex Brand to investigate a brutal murder.
Two women were shot ... one was killed ... the other severely murdered. There was only one witness ... the five-year-old son of the wounded woman. He had been in another room when he heard what was taking place and went running to his mother. She yells at him to RUN! but the killer caught him before he could run. Fearing for his life and his mother's, he fights off the intruder, pulling the killer's mask aside and getting a good look.
Mother and son were taken to the hospital, and Charlie has gone into himself. Shock and trauma has left him mute and in a fetal position. Blasco takes an instant liking to the young boy and she seems to be the only one he connects to.
It's going to take all her patience in earning his trust enough for him to identify the killer. In the meantime, there are two other killings and both have ties to Charlie's mother.
There are many suspects, but little in the way of motive. Could it be her abusive ex-husband? A guy or two that she has recently dated? And who exactly was the target .. and why?
Finding the answers to these questions make for an exciting excursion into police investigations. There are several suspects to follow with a few twists and turns along the way. The ending was combustible and came completely out of left field.
Blasco and Brand are memorable characters with secondary characters lending credibility to the story. Although 4th in the series, this does very well as a stand alone. As always, I recommend starting at the beginning.
Many thanks to the author for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Two women were shot ... one was killed ... the other severely murdered. There was only one witness ... the five-year-old son of the wounded woman. He had been in another room when he heard what was taking place and went running to his mother. She yells at him to RUN! but the killer caught him before he could run. Fearing for his life and his mother's, he fights off the intruder, pulling the killer's mask aside and getting a good look.
Mother and son were taken to the hospital, and Charlie has gone into himself. Shock and trauma has left him mute and in a fetal position. Blasco takes an instant liking to the young boy and she seems to be the only one he connects to.
It's going to take all her patience in earning his trust enough for him to identify the killer. In the meantime, there are two other killings and both have ties to Charlie's mother.
There are many suspects, but little in the way of motive. Could it be her abusive ex-husband? A guy or two that she has recently dated? And who exactly was the target .. and why?
Finding the answers to these questions make for an exciting excursion into police investigations. There are several suspects to follow with a few twists and turns along the way. The ending was combustible and came completely out of left field.
Blasco and Brand are memorable characters with secondary characters lending credibility to the story. Although 4th in the series, this does very well as a stand alone. As always, I recommend starting at the beginning.
Many thanks to the author for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 1, 2019
This book grabs your attention Immediately as there is a horrific attack on two young women; one dead, one injured with her young child a traumatized witness to the entire appalling event! The little boy remains mute and in a fetal position after he is found, unable to comprehend everything that courses through his young mind...And He Is the Only witness...
The tension and suspense grow as the list of suspects starts dropping, due to sudden deaths to many thought to be involved. Detective Kerri feels badly for the young boy and starts to make some type of connection any way she can...When he is refusing fluids she remembers something she has seen and her way sees the first light!!
A thrilling psychological story that will have you reading until the amazing conclusion, unable to tear your eyes away from every twist that the detectives, the mother and the amazing boy go through!!!
A 5 STAR story that YOU need To Read!!!
The tension and suspense grow as the list of suspects starts dropping, due to sudden deaths to many thought to be involved. Detective Kerri feels badly for the young boy and starts to make some type of connection any way she can...When he is refusing fluids she remembers something she has seen and her way sees the first light!!
A thrilling psychological story that will have you reading until the amazing conclusion, unable to tear your eyes away from every twist that the detectives, the mother and the amazing boy go through!!!
A 5 STAR story that YOU need To Read!!!
March 2, 2018
Great book
Loved this book, even more than the second one. I don't usually read books out of sequence, but I think these do work as stand alone stories. Loving the character development of Kerri . Can't wait for book 5, although I must try to read 1 and 3 before then.
Loved this book, even more than the second one. I don't usually read books out of sequence, but I think these do work as stand alone stories. Loving the character development of Kerri . Can't wait for book 5, although I must try to read 1 and 3 before then.
September 29, 2019
I can't believe I've only just discovered this author!
This is the fourth book in the Kerri Blasco series I believe but I had no problem reading it as a standalone thriller.
It starts off with a vicious attack witnessed by five-year-old Charlie. He's a trooper, although obviously traumatised by the events, it takes a while for him to recover from his terrible experience. Kerri has her work cut out for her with no true motive to work on and several suspects becoming victims throughout the book.
A wonderful story with a truly gripping conclusion. I read this book in a day, eager to find out where it was going to lead me next. And that twist at the end....what it was, well you'll just have to read the book yourself to find out more.
Highly recommended psychological thriller, that is fast-paced and a pleasure to read from start to finish.
This is the fourth book in the Kerri Blasco series I believe but I had no problem reading it as a standalone thriller.
It starts off with a vicious attack witnessed by five-year-old Charlie. He's a trooper, although obviously traumatised by the events, it takes a while for him to recover from his terrible experience. Kerri has her work cut out for her with no true motive to work on and several suspects becoming victims throughout the book.
A wonderful story with a truly gripping conclusion. I read this book in a day, eager to find out where it was going to lead me next. And that twist at the end....what it was, well you'll just have to read the book yourself to find out more.
Highly recommended psychological thriller, that is fast-paced and a pleasure to read from start to finish.
November 25, 2017
Author J.A. Schneider’s “Shoeless Child” is the fourth entry in her Detective Kerri Blasco series. While it may not be the “heart-stopping” thriller proclaimed in the book’s title blurb, there was enough going on to keep me interested all the way through.
The story and plot are the stars here, and take precedence over deep character development. The author moves quickly, pushing the action on a steady pace that helps to keep readers involved, and I finished it in two sittings. The quick pacing is a five-star aspect of this novel.
I had a hunch who the killer was, but had no solid proof to connect my suspect with the final outcome. Ms. Schneider does leave a few clues that could potentially be used to deduce the guilty person, but the twist at the end was totally unexpected yet fit neatly with what we had learned up to that point. I was happy the author did not rely on a contrived plot in order to force her story to make sense.
I struggled with some of the police procedural aspects. For instance, the reasons for the initial arrest were weak and probably would not have generated a warrant. Using this ploy to push the heroine into the role of “smart cop on the team” has been done over and over in books and mostly movies and television, and I felt the author could have achieved the same effect without using a tired technique.
Overall, this is a quick-paced energetic tale combined with imaginative yet realistic plot details that one can’t help but walk away from the last page feeling entertained. Kerri Blasco is an intelligent policewoman, and the author has thankfully not felt compelled to inject the snappy wisecracks that fill the pages of most books in this genre. Even without the patter, Blasco’s smarts and desire to succeed help define her character and present us with a heroine we can cheer for. Four stars.
My thanks to the author for a complimentary advance copy of this book.
The story and plot are the stars here, and take precedence over deep character development. The author moves quickly, pushing the action on a steady pace that helps to keep readers involved, and I finished it in two sittings. The quick pacing is a five-star aspect of this novel.
I had a hunch who the killer was, but had no solid proof to connect my suspect with the final outcome. Ms. Schneider does leave a few clues that could potentially be used to deduce the guilty person, but the twist at the end was totally unexpected yet fit neatly with what we had learned up to that point. I was happy the author did not rely on a contrived plot in order to force her story to make sense.
I struggled with some of the police procedural aspects. For instance, the reasons for the initial arrest were weak and probably would not have generated a warrant. Using this ploy to push the heroine into the role of “smart cop on the team” has been done over and over in books and mostly movies and television, and I felt the author could have achieved the same effect without using a tired technique.
Overall, this is a quick-paced energetic tale combined with imaginative yet realistic plot details that one can’t help but walk away from the last page feeling entertained. Kerri Blasco is an intelligent policewoman, and the author has thankfully not felt compelled to inject the snappy wisecracks that fill the pages of most books in this genre. Even without the patter, Blasco’s smarts and desire to succeed help define her character and present us with a heroine we can cheer for. Four stars.
My thanks to the author for a complimentary advance copy of this book.
December 27, 2017
The Kerri Blasco series just keeps getting better and better. This time I absolutely didn't work out the specifics of whodunnit until the end - the pace and suspense of the novel is perfect, you care deeply about the victims and the investigators of the crime that takes place in the beginning so every development pulls at the heartstrings.
Normally, I feel that using a young child in a crime thriller can be used as a cheap and easy way of buying your affections by playing on your parental instincts without creating a fully developed young character but Schneider writes Charlie, the young boy, perfectly.
As ever, Schneider's writing style is intelligent, emotive and completely compelling. I finished the book in a single sitting and still want more!
I may rank this as my favourite book in the series so far!
**Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review**
Normally, I feel that using a young child in a crime thriller can be used as a cheap and easy way of buying your affections by playing on your parental instincts without creating a fully developed young character but Schneider writes Charlie, the young boy, perfectly.
As ever, Schneider's writing style is intelligent, emotive and completely compelling. I finished the book in a single sitting and still want more!
I may rank this as my favourite book in the series so far!
**Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review**
January 24, 2018
I love Crime Fiction in particular Psychological Thrillers. I like the suspense, trying to work out the unsub and complex characters. I also like there to be a human interest aspect something I can learn about. I don’t like great big chunks of descriptive text. When reading a series I prefer to read them in sequence but if this is not possible then they also need to work as stand-alone but without a lot of reverting back to previous books that might bore a reader who has read the previous books. This book ticks every single box.
Charlie witnessed a horrific murder and is traumatised. His mum is badly injured and her friend dead. The only witness is a 5 year old child who is too scared to speak. The book takes the reader on a journey to bring Charlie back and this is done with great compassion and realism. Heart-rending at times and heart-warming at others – brilliantly done.
Kerri – what can I say? I really, really want to learn more about her but this book does give a really good insight into her character and Alex is the perfect partner. All the characters are realistic and have depth. I love how Kerri connects to Charlie.
There are many twists and turns as Alex and Kerri explore dead ends and red herrings. With more people dying the race is on to find the killer before he finishes the job and the adrenaline keeps pumping throughout the book to a complete shocker of an ending.
An absolutely rivetting book I will be reading the back list asap.
Well worth the 5 stars and I thank Joyce for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
Charlie witnessed a horrific murder and is traumatised. His mum is badly injured and her friend dead. The only witness is a 5 year old child who is too scared to speak. The book takes the reader on a journey to bring Charlie back and this is done with great compassion and realism. Heart-rending at times and heart-warming at others – brilliantly done.
Kerri – what can I say? I really, really want to learn more about her but this book does give a really good insight into her character and Alex is the perfect partner. All the characters are realistic and have depth. I love how Kerri connects to Charlie.
There are many twists and turns as Alex and Kerri explore dead ends and red herrings. With more people dying the race is on to find the killer before he finishes the job and the adrenaline keeps pumping throughout the book to a complete shocker of an ending.
An absolutely rivetting book I will be reading the back list asap.
Well worth the 5 stars and I thank Joyce for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
December 21, 2017
I absolutely adored this amazing book. Pacy, thrilling, absolutely gripping, this book was a rollercoaster of a read that I just could not bear to put down. One of the best novels I have read this year and I have read many! This book has everything - tension, a fast moving and original plot, characters so real you feel they are in the room with you and a story you cannot stop thinking about. Highly recommended to everyone. Warning: you will not be able to do anything else while reading this book, it will take you over, which is exactly what a good book should do. I am SO glad to have discovered this author. Will be reading all of her books.
November 30, 2017
Kerri Blasco and her partner Alex Brand return in a emotionally charged story of murder,lies,secrets and manipulation that had me hooked in from the very first sentence.
Five year old Charlie Sparkes witnesses his mum and her best friend being shot by a masked intruder.Hysterical the young boy bolts into the cold November night to try and get help,only to fall into more trauma.
Miraculously Charlie's mum is still alive and both she and Charlie are taken to the hospital.Unfortunately the shocking events of that night have left Charlie traumatized,mute and refusing to eat or drink.
The only person he seems to connect with is Kerri but will she be able to break through the barriers that he had put up to protect himself and get him to reveal who the killer is before it is too late.The killer has shot two more innocent people,Kerri and the team keep hitting one brick wall after another.Meanwhile somewhere in the city,the killer is planning to silence the one living eye witness.....permanently.
This is a fast paced,realistically plotted,gripping thriller,packed full of twists,red herrings,numerous suspects and loads of suspense.Charlie was a adorable character and I spent the whole book with a heightened sense of anxiety and worry about his safety.Fortunately the author didn't go down the predictable route when it came to the final shocking reveal and confrontation.The motive behind the murders was unpredictable and totally unexpected although now I think about it there was a few tiny clues scattered througout the book that should have made me stop and think.I was pleased that Kerri was more like the character from the first two books in the series.I found her constant whinging and moaning in Watching You very frustrating and uncharacteristic.
Although this is the forth book in the series,it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone although as with all book series it is best to read them in order.
Many thanks to Joyce Schneider for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Five year old Charlie Sparkes witnesses his mum and her best friend being shot by a masked intruder.Hysterical the young boy bolts into the cold November night to try and get help,only to fall into more trauma.
Miraculously Charlie's mum is still alive and both she and Charlie are taken to the hospital.Unfortunately the shocking events of that night have left Charlie traumatized,mute and refusing to eat or drink.
The only person he seems to connect with is Kerri but will she be able to break through the barriers that he had put up to protect himself and get him to reveal who the killer is before it is too late.The killer has shot two more innocent people,Kerri and the team keep hitting one brick wall after another.Meanwhile somewhere in the city,the killer is planning to silence the one living eye witness.....permanently.
This is a fast paced,realistically plotted,gripping thriller,packed full of twists,red herrings,numerous suspects and loads of suspense.Charlie was a adorable character and I spent the whole book with a heightened sense of anxiety and worry about his safety.Fortunately the author didn't go down the predictable route when it came to the final shocking reveal and confrontation.The motive behind the murders was unpredictable and totally unexpected although now I think about it there was a few tiny clues scattered througout the book that should have made me stop and think.I was pleased that Kerri was more like the character from the first two books in the series.I found her constant whinging and moaning in Watching You very frustrating and uncharacteristic.
Although this is the forth book in the series,it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone although as with all book series it is best to read them in order.
Many thanks to Joyce Schneider for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review.
September 30, 2019
This is my first book in this series so I have some catching up to do. Having said that--it works extremely well as a standalone. Opens with a bang and closes with a twist. What a page-turner!
A heart-wrenching tale of a young boy's traumatic recovery from watching his mother and her best friend shot. The killer grabs him, and young Charlie fights for his life. The only witness to this horrible crime. The killer's identity is locked inside and no one seems to be able to reach him. Kelli is drawn to the case, her heart breaking each time she looks at Charlie. Can she reach him before it's too late? The suspect list is long and complicated. Could it be Rachel's boss who had an inappropriate interest in her? The men she was dating? Her landlord? Or is there someone else hiding in the shadows?
Alex and Kelli are pressed hard to find the answers as one-by-one suspects fall prey to the vicious killer. Only Charlie knows the truth and he isn't talking.
A truly emotional, fast-paced thriller that will keep you riveted from beginning to end. Highly recommended.
A heart-wrenching tale of a young boy's traumatic recovery from watching his mother and her best friend shot. The killer grabs him, and young Charlie fights for his life. The only witness to this horrible crime. The killer's identity is locked inside and no one seems to be able to reach him. Kelli is drawn to the case, her heart breaking each time she looks at Charlie. Can she reach him before it's too late? The suspect list is long and complicated. Could it be Rachel's boss who had an inappropriate interest in her? The men she was dating? Her landlord? Or is there someone else hiding in the shadows?
Alex and Kelli are pressed hard to find the answers as one-by-one suspects fall prey to the vicious killer. Only Charlie knows the truth and he isn't talking.
A truly emotional, fast-paced thriller that will keep you riveted from beginning to end. Highly recommended.
January 24, 2018
A brutal murder sees Charlie traumatised but as he’s the key to the murderer Kerri Blasco needs to get through to him.
My goodness! I think it says something about the powerful nature of Shoeless Child that although I’d only read a few pages before bed, the story invaded my dreams. From the first page, reading Shoeless Child felt like being on an out of control roller coaster, so fast is the pace and the thrill. Several times I realised I was reading with an elevated pulse rate.
I thought the short, sharp chapters were inspired as they lent pace and momentum to the read and had the effect of making me think I’d just read one more, and one more and one more until I had gobbled up the entire book.
Initially I found the many characters a little bit confusing, but once I had settled into the rhythm of the story they became clear and distinct so that by the end of Shoeless Child I was particularly heavily invested in Alex, Kerri, Rachel and Charlie. Again, I’m impressed by J.A. Schneider’s writing because I don’t usually like children in fiction yet she made me care what happened to Charlie. That’s a real achievement!
As I read I changed my mind several times about the identity of the killer and found the final reveal very satisfying. I also really appreciated the insight into the frustrations and successes of the homicide team. The dialogue, procedures and descriptions made for a vivid and interesting, as well as hugely entertaining, narrative.
Shoeless Child is fast paced, riveting and compelling. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2018/01/24/...
My goodness! I think it says something about the powerful nature of Shoeless Child that although I’d only read a few pages before bed, the story invaded my dreams. From the first page, reading Shoeless Child felt like being on an out of control roller coaster, so fast is the pace and the thrill. Several times I realised I was reading with an elevated pulse rate.
I thought the short, sharp chapters were inspired as they lent pace and momentum to the read and had the effect of making me think I’d just read one more, and one more and one more until I had gobbled up the entire book.
Initially I found the many characters a little bit confusing, but once I had settled into the rhythm of the story they became clear and distinct so that by the end of Shoeless Child I was particularly heavily invested in Alex, Kerri, Rachel and Charlie. Again, I’m impressed by J.A. Schneider’s writing because I don’t usually like children in fiction yet she made me care what happened to Charlie. That’s a real achievement!
As I read I changed my mind several times about the identity of the killer and found the final reveal very satisfying. I also really appreciated the insight into the frustrations and successes of the homicide team. The dialogue, procedures and descriptions made for a vivid and interesting, as well as hugely entertaining, narrative.
Shoeless Child is fast paced, riveting and compelling. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
https://lindasbookbag.com/2018/01/24/...
February 26, 2018
Shoeless Child is the fourth book in the Detective Kerri Blasco series….what a book it is too!
I am a massive fan of psychological thrillers and one thing I love about is how the author combines it with a detective. So this isn't just your run of the mill crime detective series we get much more than that. It is beautifully written I couldn't read it fast enough. With plenty of twists and turns is certainly kept me on tenderhooks and guessing until the very end.
With brilliant descriptions right from the opening scene where we follow the story of a little boy named Charlie who witnesses an horrific murder but is too traumatized to speak. Can detective Kerri Blasco connect with with the child to help find out who the killer is?!
I loved the chapters that are told from the killers POV which are woven into this incredible original story I Cannot begin to tell you how engaging this story is. It can easily be read has a standalone but I would advise reading the series because it is to good to miss.
Kerri Blasco is a brilliant realistic character, for fans of the series we see plenty of character development with this storyline. Kerri and Alex make the perfect team,I cannot wait to see what is in store for them next.
If you are looking for something gripping and full of suspense then this is the book for you. Which I highly recommend giving it 4 stars.
I am a massive fan of psychological thrillers and one thing I love about is how the author combines it with a detective. So this isn't just your run of the mill crime detective series we get much more than that. It is beautifully written I couldn't read it fast enough. With plenty of twists and turns is certainly kept me on tenderhooks and guessing until the very end.
With brilliant descriptions right from the opening scene where we follow the story of a little boy named Charlie who witnesses an horrific murder but is too traumatized to speak. Can detective Kerri Blasco connect with with the child to help find out who the killer is?!
I loved the chapters that are told from the killers POV which are woven into this incredible original story I Cannot begin to tell you how engaging this story is. It can easily be read has a standalone but I would advise reading the series because it is to good to miss.
Kerri Blasco is a brilliant realistic character, for fans of the series we see plenty of character development with this storyline. Kerri and Alex make the perfect team,I cannot wait to see what is in store for them next.
If you are looking for something gripping and full of suspense then this is the book for you. Which I highly recommend giving it 4 stars.
December 23, 2017
I am a mystery genre junkie! These are my favorite types of books to read and when they are written well, I am full immersed into the story. This is one of those books. I have read 2 other books in this series and love them.
See my full review on my blog: http://bookqueenreviews.wordpress.com
See my full review on my blog: http://bookqueenreviews.wordpress.com
January 25, 2018
Kerri and Alex are back at it in the 4th installment, The Shoeless Child. Kerri’s first night back in the field will prove to be a gruesomely horrifying one. Called to a scene with one dead and the other fighting to survive, they discover that one of the victims little boy is missing.
Once the little boy is found and checked over at the hospital, it is quickly discovered he is traumatized beyond words....literally. Kerri, ever the caring type develops a unique and sacred bond with Charlie.
The clock is racing as they are trying to figure out what happened and who the killer is. Rachel and Charlie are about to be released from the Hospital and the killer is still loose ready to finish what he started.
The author will take you through many twists and turns throughout this novel. She keeps you guessing and I am always so impressed with her ability to deliver a meaningful, interesting and superbly thought out story. Her characters are realistic and we continue to see Kerri and Alex grown more into their characters with each novel. This book is fast paced, action filled and will keep you flipping the page (I finished it in 2 nights).
I love this authors work and can’t wait to see what happens next in the life of Kerri and Alex.
Once the little boy is found and checked over at the hospital, it is quickly discovered he is traumatized beyond words....literally. Kerri, ever the caring type develops a unique and sacred bond with Charlie.
The clock is racing as they are trying to figure out what happened and who the killer is. Rachel and Charlie are about to be released from the Hospital and the killer is still loose ready to finish what he started.
The author will take you through many twists and turns throughout this novel. She keeps you guessing and I am always so impressed with her ability to deliver a meaningful, interesting and superbly thought out story. Her characters are realistic and we continue to see Kerri and Alex grown more into their characters with each novel. This book is fast paced, action filled and will keep you flipping the page (I finished it in 2 nights).
I love this authors work and can’t wait to see what happens next in the life of Kerri and Alex.
January 29, 2018
It was such a heavy burden to put on the shoulders of a little boy but it was the only way that Charlie Sparkes’ mum, Rachel, would have any chance to survive and give her son a good enough reason to leave her. She had to get him out of the flat quickly. Her friend was already a fatality of the man wearing a ski mask and she had been shot. RUN, she had told him, get help and so Charlie ran, adrenaline giving him the courage and speed to get somewhere and call for help. The only place that Charlie was running that night was into the arms of even more trouble.
Detective Kerri Blasco and her partner Sergeant Alex Brand are first on the scene at the shooting. Rachel, Charlie’s mum, is swiftly taken to hospital where Charlie eventually ends up too. The race is on to discover who his intended victim was, was it Rachel’s flat mate or her and had Charlie somehow got a look at the man in the ski mask?
Charlie is a wreck, a child so traumatized by the night’s events that he has disappeared into his own little world not wanting to be a part of scenes his little mind can not possibly cope with. It is through Kerri, Alex and one of the doctors that trust has to be rebuilt again if this killer is ever going to be caught. Now there has been some real heart pounding moments so far but the pace slows. The police procedural side of investigating takes over. Not that the action has finished by any means so keep your running shoes on.
I don’t think that even the most hardened detective can not be moved when such a violent crime involves a child and Joyce Schneider just captures that perfect balance. It is a mix of using good detective work and building trust with little Charlie, to find the key to break through to him, if this killer is to be caught. This is a real edgy read that I tried to solve before the end but alas my detectives skills were lacking. A super book and really loving getting to know more of the gentler side of some of the main characters in the series. Although part of a series the book can be read as stand alone.
Detective Kerri Blasco and her partner Sergeant Alex Brand are first on the scene at the shooting. Rachel, Charlie’s mum, is swiftly taken to hospital where Charlie eventually ends up too. The race is on to discover who his intended victim was, was it Rachel’s flat mate or her and had Charlie somehow got a look at the man in the ski mask?
Charlie is a wreck, a child so traumatized by the night’s events that he has disappeared into his own little world not wanting to be a part of scenes his little mind can not possibly cope with. It is through Kerri, Alex and one of the doctors that trust has to be rebuilt again if this killer is ever going to be caught. Now there has been some real heart pounding moments so far but the pace slows. The police procedural side of investigating takes over. Not that the action has finished by any means so keep your running shoes on.
I don’t think that even the most hardened detective can not be moved when such a violent crime involves a child and Joyce Schneider just captures that perfect balance. It is a mix of using good detective work and building trust with little Charlie, to find the key to break through to him, if this killer is to be caught. This is a real edgy read that I tried to solve before the end but alas my detectives skills were lacking. A super book and really loving getting to know more of the gentler side of some of the main characters in the series. Although part of a series the book can be read as stand alone.
February 19, 2018
I had read the first in the Kerri Blasco series but for some reason had not read books 2 and 3. However, I had no problems with reading this particular book at all, even though it was book four. It reads well as a standalone (although now I really want to go back and read the books I missed!).
Kerri and her partner Alex take on a very challenging case of murder, which involves a little boy called Charlie who was made mute due to witnessing the murder of his mother's friend, as well as the serious injury of his mother. Kerri has her work cut out for her because he has information in his head and he isn't speaking.
Just when she thinks that this case is difficult enough, others close to Charlie's mum get killed as well, and the rollercoaster ride really gets going. This was a fantastic book which was incredibly gripping and you could cut the tension with a knife! Throughout the book though, Kerri's empathy and skill with people really shines through, and I love that about her. She is a great cop but also a wonderful human being. I also like the relationship that she has with Alex.
So many twists and turns, and I really had no idea who was committing these murders until the very end.
Beautifully written and a well deserved 5 stars from me.
Kerri and her partner Alex take on a very challenging case of murder, which involves a little boy called Charlie who was made mute due to witnessing the murder of his mother's friend, as well as the serious injury of his mother. Kerri has her work cut out for her because he has information in his head and he isn't speaking.
Just when she thinks that this case is difficult enough, others close to Charlie's mum get killed as well, and the rollercoaster ride really gets going. This was a fantastic book which was incredibly gripping and you could cut the tension with a knife! Throughout the book though, Kerri's empathy and skill with people really shines through, and I love that about her. She is a great cop but also a wonderful human being. I also like the relationship that she has with Alex.
So many twists and turns, and I really had no idea who was committing these murders until the very end.
Beautifully written and a well deserved 5 stars from me.
January 24, 2018
I received a copy of Shoeless Child in exchange for an honest review.
Shoeless Child begins with a small boy being chased out into a cold, wet night by a killer after he witnesses that person shoot his mother and her best friend in the little boy’s apartment. The boy’s memories take you back to his struggle with the killer when he is able to scratch the assailant and gain his release, escaping from the apartment so he can try to get help for his mother from neighboring apartments, making his way to a bar further down the street when no one answers their door in his apartment building. The first chapter ends with the child being grabbed by an unknown man who pinches his pee-pee and clamps a hand over his face. This book starts with a lot of action and doesn’t slow down.
Shoeless Child is able to hold your attention with its well-developed characters, endless action, and fast-paced writing. J.A. Schneider doesn’t give anything away as she leads you through the torment of a small child dealing with the effects of seeing someone attempt to murder his mother after murdering his mother’s best friend, while the detective assigned to the case, Kerri Blasco, does her best to quickly bring the killer to justice before more people are killed. Hints are given throughout the storyline to implicate one suspect or another, but the identity of the killer is a surprise at the end.
Shoeless Child begins with a small boy being chased out into a cold, wet night by a killer after he witnesses that person shoot his mother and her best friend in the little boy’s apartment. The boy’s memories take you back to his struggle with the killer when he is able to scratch the assailant and gain his release, escaping from the apartment so he can try to get help for his mother from neighboring apartments, making his way to a bar further down the street when no one answers their door in his apartment building. The first chapter ends with the child being grabbed by an unknown man who pinches his pee-pee and clamps a hand over his face. This book starts with a lot of action and doesn’t slow down.
Shoeless Child is able to hold your attention with its well-developed characters, endless action, and fast-paced writing. J.A. Schneider doesn’t give anything away as she leads you through the torment of a small child dealing with the effects of seeing someone attempt to murder his mother after murdering his mother’s best friend, while the detective assigned to the case, Kerri Blasco, does her best to quickly bring the killer to justice before more people are killed. Hints are given throughout the storyline to implicate one suspect or another, but the identity of the killer is a surprise at the end.
December 12, 2017
Once again, J. A. Schneider grips you by the throat and starts throttling your imagination on page one. Then, just pages later, your eyes will well up with tears. Terror and pathos are the very signature of the Kerri Blasco books.
SHOELESS CHILD is a book meant to be read in one sitting because there is no good place to set it aside. Horrific crime is bad enough, but when you add a child into the mix, all you want to know is that the bad guy is off the street and the child is safe.
If Alfred Hitchcock was the master of the Mc·Guffin, Schneider is surely its mistress. Suspects abound, and, at some point, you think each of them is the one whodunit. I started to suss out the true culprit a little less than three quarters of the way through the book. Then, I was sure I was wrong. What I am trying to say here is that as you read you get caught up in the mystery right alongside the Homicide Squad detectives. You'll want to solve this case as badly as they do.
Having read the three previous Detective Kerri Blasco books, the final scenes fit right in with Schneider's style. Each of these books will get your heart pumping, and each one ends on a pretty happy and upbeat note. It's almost like a reward for having made it through so many pages of nail-biting suspense.
You can read this as a stand-alone novel, but I recommend that you do yourself a favor and read the entire series (FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, and WATCHING YOU) first. You won't be sorry.
SHOELESS CHILD is a book meant to be read in one sitting because there is no good place to set it aside. Horrific crime is bad enough, but when you add a child into the mix, all you want to know is that the bad guy is off the street and the child is safe.
If Alfred Hitchcock was the master of the Mc·Guffin, Schneider is surely its mistress. Suspects abound, and, at some point, you think each of them is the one whodunit. I started to suss out the true culprit a little less than three quarters of the way through the book. Then, I was sure I was wrong. What I am trying to say here is that as you read you get caught up in the mystery right alongside the Homicide Squad detectives. You'll want to solve this case as badly as they do.
Having read the three previous Detective Kerri Blasco books, the final scenes fit right in with Schneider's style. Each of these books will get your heart pumping, and each one ends on a pretty happy and upbeat note. It's almost like a reward for having made it through so many pages of nail-biting suspense.
You can read this as a stand-alone novel, but I recommend that you do yourself a favor and read the entire series (FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, and WATCHING YOU) first. You won't be sorry.
February 23, 2018
I felt heartbroken for little Charlie Sparkes. No child should have to witness their mother and her best friend in the state he saw them. There is no surprise the wee chap was traumatised. I just wanted to give him a massive cuddle.
I really liked Kerri Blasco as a detective. She’s tenacious and caring. She thinks outside the box – I was amazed by the peanut butter and soda trick!! When you read the book, you’ll see what I mean!
The whole story kept me guessing. I really didn’t know who was the culprit. I had my suspicions but I wasn’t sure. And boy was I surprised when I did find out!! Totally gobsmacked!
Even though this is the fourth Kerri Blasco book, I didn’t feel I’d missed too much in not reading the first three. In the main, Shoeless Child can be read as a standalone; however there is a little bit of Kerri’s backstory that I felt I’d missed out on. Kerri is now on my radar and I hope to return to her investigations when my reading pile allows.
I really liked Kerri Blasco as a detective. She’s tenacious and caring. She thinks outside the box – I was amazed by the peanut butter and soda trick!! When you read the book, you’ll see what I mean!
The whole story kept me guessing. I really didn’t know who was the culprit. I had my suspicions but I wasn’t sure. And boy was I surprised when I did find out!! Totally gobsmacked!
Even though this is the fourth Kerri Blasco book, I didn’t feel I’d missed too much in not reading the first three. In the main, Shoeless Child can be read as a standalone; however there is a little bit of Kerri’s backstory that I felt I’d missed out on. Kerri is now on my radar and I hope to return to her investigations when my reading pile allows.
February 24, 2018
This is the second book I've read in this series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. Shoeless Child has a great plot, is well written and kept me interested right to the end. The characters are believable and I particularly like Kerri Blasco, she's a strong and independent female lead who also has a very human side. I'm really looking forward to reading books 2 and 3.
December 10, 2017
Shoeless Child is the latest story from J. A. Schneider. Shoeless Child grabs the reader from the first page and it's difficult to put down. My only complaint about this book is it ended. Case was solved, but I hated to let the main characters Kerri and Alex go as they feel more like friends then fictional people. Shoeless Child is a stand alone story. I was given an early copy to review.
February 5, 2018
Excellent!
Another great book in the Kerri Blasco Series. Again the characters were well developed and memorable, the plot fast-paced and moving. Great read.
Another great book in the Kerri Blasco Series. Again the characters were well developed and memorable, the plot fast-paced and moving. Great read.
July 7, 2018
A bloodbath... A terrified child running for his life...
That's what we find at the beginning of J.A. Schneider's fourth chilling thriller in her Detective Kerri Blasco series. This is a fast-paced book that grabbed my undivided attention from the get-go and I couldn't put it down till I turned the last page. It can very well be read as a standalone thriller.
The whole story centres around a little five-year-old boy who is testimony to a horrific scene his little eyes and mind should never have had to witness. His own mother and her friend are shot in his own home by a masked intruder. Covered in blood, the poor terrified boy escapes into the dark streets outside with the killer in pursuit. Fortunately he is saved by someone before the killer had a chance to snatch him.
Detectives Kerri Blasco and Alex Brand are alerted and rush to the scene to start their investigation. Lauren, a friend visiting the boy and his mum, has been killed on the spot. Rachel, the mother, is rushed to hospital barely alive. The little boy, the only person to witness what's happened, goes mute with shock. He's frozen, is not saying a word and has no eye contact with anyone. Kerri's heart goes out to the poor terrified boy. She knows that in order to solve this crime, she needs to coax little Charlie into opening up and recounting what has gone on, but that would be easier said than done. With no apparent motive, no evidence left at the scene and just a mute little boy as witness, Kerri knows that this case will be a tough nut to crack. Who is the killer? Why did he target the two women? Is it someone from one of the women's past? Someone with some grudge maybe? Did Charlie recognise this person? Will Kerri be able to persuade him to talk? And will she be able to keep him safe? The killer might resurface at any time to finish off the job.
Well, I've been meaning to read this book for a long while. Now that I've read it, I can only kick myself for not having done so before. It's just amazing! A pure adrenaline rush! I love Ms Schneider's 'voice', the way she structures her sentences and the words she uses to make my heart leap with the bursts of suspense she knows how to inject so well in her books. I've read the other books in the series bar the first one and I can say that it's getting better and better with each new instalment.
I just love Kerri Blasco, this brilliant, intuitive cop with the ability to read a crime scene like an open book and a painful past behind her. I enjoy reading about the secret love story she shares with her superior Alex, how they strive to keep it under wraps at work for fear of being separated, how they function so well as a team and a couple and how they care for each other, making each other's pain and anguish go away at the end of each trying day in the privacy of one or the other's residence. They're just so sweet together!
In this book, the author did a great job in exposing Kerri's gentle, patient and caring nature, but also her ingenuity and resourcefulness. The way she takes care of Charlie, how she goes out of her way to take his little mind off the horrors he witnessed, but at the same time gently getting out of him what little information he might be keeping locked inside, was pure professionalism. Only Charlie holds the key to solving this case. Will Kerri find the right way to take it?
The author keeps the killer's identity a mystery till the very end. Through twists and turns she made me suspicious of various characters along the way, however that final twist was a complete surprise to me. I really wasn't expecting it, but it did suddenly answer the many questions I had swirling in my mind. Well done!
Shoeless Child is an outstanding, spine-chilling psychological thriller that kept me on my toes throughout, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it. Now I can't wait for book 5!
With thanks to the author for a review copy which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
That's what we find at the beginning of J.A. Schneider's fourth chilling thriller in her Detective Kerri Blasco series. This is a fast-paced book that grabbed my undivided attention from the get-go and I couldn't put it down till I turned the last page. It can very well be read as a standalone thriller.
The whole story centres around a little five-year-old boy who is testimony to a horrific scene his little eyes and mind should never have had to witness. His own mother and her friend are shot in his own home by a masked intruder. Covered in blood, the poor terrified boy escapes into the dark streets outside with the killer in pursuit. Fortunately he is saved by someone before the killer had a chance to snatch him.
Detectives Kerri Blasco and Alex Brand are alerted and rush to the scene to start their investigation. Lauren, a friend visiting the boy and his mum, has been killed on the spot. Rachel, the mother, is rushed to hospital barely alive. The little boy, the only person to witness what's happened, goes mute with shock. He's frozen, is not saying a word and has no eye contact with anyone. Kerri's heart goes out to the poor terrified boy. She knows that in order to solve this crime, she needs to coax little Charlie into opening up and recounting what has gone on, but that would be easier said than done. With no apparent motive, no evidence left at the scene and just a mute little boy as witness, Kerri knows that this case will be a tough nut to crack. Who is the killer? Why did he target the two women? Is it someone from one of the women's past? Someone with some grudge maybe? Did Charlie recognise this person? Will Kerri be able to persuade him to talk? And will she be able to keep him safe? The killer might resurface at any time to finish off the job.
Well, I've been meaning to read this book for a long while. Now that I've read it, I can only kick myself for not having done so before. It's just amazing! A pure adrenaline rush! I love Ms Schneider's 'voice', the way she structures her sentences and the words she uses to make my heart leap with the bursts of suspense she knows how to inject so well in her books. I've read the other books in the series bar the first one and I can say that it's getting better and better with each new instalment.
I just love Kerri Blasco, this brilliant, intuitive cop with the ability to read a crime scene like an open book and a painful past behind her. I enjoy reading about the secret love story she shares with her superior Alex, how they strive to keep it under wraps at work for fear of being separated, how they function so well as a team and a couple and how they care for each other, making each other's pain and anguish go away at the end of each trying day in the privacy of one or the other's residence. They're just so sweet together!
In this book, the author did a great job in exposing Kerri's gentle, patient and caring nature, but also her ingenuity and resourcefulness. The way she takes care of Charlie, how she goes out of her way to take his little mind off the horrors he witnessed, but at the same time gently getting out of him what little information he might be keeping locked inside, was pure professionalism. Only Charlie holds the key to solving this case. Will Kerri find the right way to take it?
The author keeps the killer's identity a mystery till the very end. Through twists and turns she made me suspicious of various characters along the way, however that final twist was a complete surprise to me. I really wasn't expecting it, but it did suddenly answer the many questions I had swirling in my mind. Well done!
Shoeless Child is an outstanding, spine-chilling psychological thriller that kept me on my toes throughout, I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend it. Now I can't wait for book 5!
With thanks to the author for a review copy which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
January 29, 2018
Shoeless Child opens with the horrific murder of a woman and the escape of young Charlie Sparkes from the murderer following his mother’s order to run.
Meanwhile Homicide Detective Kerri Blas has returned to work after a stint on desk duty following a previous murder investigation that required her to see occupational health along with a period out of the field to recover. She is keen to be back on the team and working with her partner Sergeant Alex Brand although the partnership is under wraps from the boss, being strictly against the rules.
With Charlie eventually found and able to guide the detectives to the scene of the crime his mother is found wounded, but alive and both are taken to hospital. The resulting trauma has caused Charlie to shut down and he is unwilling and unable to talk to anyone at all and the police need him to identify the murderer.
This is an exceptionally fast-paced thriller that starts with a horrendous act made especially raw by the use of Charlie’s viewpoint for the escape scenes. It is no word of a lie that my heart was in my mouth during this part. Fortunately the whole of the book isn’t quite as traumatic and eases its way into a police procedural with Kerri at the helm. She might not be the boss but her ability to read a crime scene and people has obviously impressed the rest of the homicide team and more often than not she is given a chance to act on her intuition. When even her the Chief bowed to these skills I must admit I took a bit of deep breath as I am cautious about detectives that ‘just know’ something in my crime fiction but I’m pleased to say that although the police procedures seemed a little looser than certainly the standards their UK counterparts have to meet, there were clues that led to the final unveiling of the perpetrator.
With Charlie in a state of shock it is left to Kerri to make a bond with the previously bright and happy five-year-old which she does incrementally and with a great deal of affection. The book really should be called the Kerri and Charlie show because despite a wide array of characters, including a whole host of subjects that could have wanted Charlie’s pretty mother Rachel dead, these two really do steal the show.
Not only do we have a wide range of suspects, each creepier than the last, (personally I’d have been tempted to lock them all up for being despicable human beings) but there are red-herrings a plenty along with a few more dead bodies, just in case the break-neck speed that is maintained throughout the book allows the reader to breath once in a while, there is a surprise around every corner. This meant that I was on high alert for clues during the entire read and even the good guys, yes there are some, were treated to my contempt as was sure they were only being nice to hide some character flaw.
For those crime fiction lovers that love fast-moving plots which are underpinned with a solid plotline you can’t go far wrong in reading Shoeless Child, which is full of thrills from beginning to end.
Shoeless Child is actually the fourth in the Detective Kerri Blasco series and as I haven’t read any of the others, I can confirm that this works perfectly as a standalone thriller.
I’d like to say a big thank you to the author Joyce Schneider who provided me with an advance copy of Shoeless Child. This unbiased review is my thank you to her for such a thrilling read.
Meanwhile Homicide Detective Kerri Blas has returned to work after a stint on desk duty following a previous murder investigation that required her to see occupational health along with a period out of the field to recover. She is keen to be back on the team and working with her partner Sergeant Alex Brand although the partnership is under wraps from the boss, being strictly against the rules.
With Charlie eventually found and able to guide the detectives to the scene of the crime his mother is found wounded, but alive and both are taken to hospital. The resulting trauma has caused Charlie to shut down and he is unwilling and unable to talk to anyone at all and the police need him to identify the murderer.
This is an exceptionally fast-paced thriller that starts with a horrendous act made especially raw by the use of Charlie’s viewpoint for the escape scenes. It is no word of a lie that my heart was in my mouth during this part. Fortunately the whole of the book isn’t quite as traumatic and eases its way into a police procedural with Kerri at the helm. She might not be the boss but her ability to read a crime scene and people has obviously impressed the rest of the homicide team and more often than not she is given a chance to act on her intuition. When even her the Chief bowed to these skills I must admit I took a bit of deep breath as I am cautious about detectives that ‘just know’ something in my crime fiction but I’m pleased to say that although the police procedures seemed a little looser than certainly the standards their UK counterparts have to meet, there were clues that led to the final unveiling of the perpetrator.
With Charlie in a state of shock it is left to Kerri to make a bond with the previously bright and happy five-year-old which she does incrementally and with a great deal of affection. The book really should be called the Kerri and Charlie show because despite a wide array of characters, including a whole host of subjects that could have wanted Charlie’s pretty mother Rachel dead, these two really do steal the show.
Not only do we have a wide range of suspects, each creepier than the last, (personally I’d have been tempted to lock them all up for being despicable human beings) but there are red-herrings a plenty along with a few more dead bodies, just in case the break-neck speed that is maintained throughout the book allows the reader to breath once in a while, there is a surprise around every corner. This meant that I was on high alert for clues during the entire read and even the good guys, yes there are some, were treated to my contempt as was sure they were only being nice to hide some character flaw.
For those crime fiction lovers that love fast-moving plots which are underpinned with a solid plotline you can’t go far wrong in reading Shoeless Child, which is full of thrills from beginning to end.
Shoeless Child is actually the fourth in the Detective Kerri Blasco series and as I haven’t read any of the others, I can confirm that this works perfectly as a standalone thriller.
I’d like to say a big thank you to the author Joyce Schneider who provided me with an advance copy of Shoeless Child. This unbiased review is my thank you to her for such a thrilling read.
February 15, 2018
Five year old Charlie Sparkes witnesses his mummy Rachel and her friend Lauren being shot by a masked man. Lauren dies straight away while Rachel is lying with blood pumping out of her wounded arm. Charlie runs to his mum she is shouting for him to run the man was still in the house as he starts to run away the man grabbed Charlie but as he was now covered in blood Charlie managed to slip away in the struggle he managed to lift the ski mask scratch the man. He knew he had to get help fast he didn’t want his mummy to die. With only his blood soaked pyjamas and bare feet he ran out the flat, He was banging on a neighbour downstairs door but she was having a noisy party and didn’t hear then he heard the footsteps coming towards him and he ran as fast as he could, he even ran in between cars which his mummy had told him never to do then he heard people coming out a local bar and managed to get help.
Detective Kerri Blasco and her partner Sergeant Alex Brand arrived at the crime scene to find Lauren’s dead body Rachel and Charlie had already been taken to hospital where they were working on Rachel. Charlie was so traumatised he couldn’t speak Jake Benton one of the hospitals paediatricians would be working with Charlie to try coax him into remembering the events, giving them details so they could find the killer and hopefully help him heal at the moment when anyone spoke to him he would close his eyes and squeeze them tight. Kerri and Alex had a big job ahead of them to find the killer.
What an amazing book I totally loved this story I fell in love with Charlie the first time he was mentioned and the love just grew for him. Once I started reading it I couldn’t put it down. A couple of times I tried to sleep but wasn’t happening so ended up an all nighter. Definitely recommend this.
Detective Kerri Blasco and her partner Sergeant Alex Brand arrived at the crime scene to find Lauren’s dead body Rachel and Charlie had already been taken to hospital where they were working on Rachel. Charlie was so traumatised he couldn’t speak Jake Benton one of the hospitals paediatricians would be working with Charlie to try coax him into remembering the events, giving them details so they could find the killer and hopefully help him heal at the moment when anyone spoke to him he would close his eyes and squeeze them tight. Kerri and Alex had a big job ahead of them to find the killer.
What an amazing book I totally loved this story I fell in love with Charlie the first time he was mentioned and the love just grew for him. Once I started reading it I couldn’t put it down. A couple of times I tried to sleep but wasn’t happening so ended up an all nighter. Definitely recommend this.
November 30, 2017
Review: Advanced Reader’s Copy
Fantastic thriller! I love, love, love the Detective Kerri Blasco books! The fourth book is full of secrets, suspects - and a ruthless killer. Five year old Charlie Sparkes witnessed his mom & her friend get shot in their apt by a masked intruder. He runs for help into the cold night, but falls into more trauma. The friend died (not a spoiler), while mother & son are taken to the hospital under police protection. Charlie is too traumatized to speak or eat. Detective Kerri Blasco & her police partner Sgt. Alex Brand are called in on the case. Soft hearted Kerri aches to help Charlie recover & remember what happened. As more people are murdered, and amid mounting pressure from the public & the brass, Kerri and the Homicide Dept. race to catch the killer before he can eliminate Charlie...
Whew! This thriller had me frantically turning pages, eager to find out what happened next! I loved the way Kerri tries to connect with Charlie. It’s very realistic - I felt I was right there with Kerri & the others, trying solve the crimes. It’s fast paced & never drags the way some thrillers do. I love the relationship between Kerri & her fellow detectives, especially with Alex Brand, her police partner/secret lover. Their romance in the Kerri Blasco books is nice and it doesn’t overwhelm the stories. There were some sympathetic characters. Plus, the humor is funny and genuine, never snide and doesn’t feel forced like in other books. As for the whodunnit & why - it definitely took me by surprise!
(Many thanks to author J.A. Schneider (Joyce Anne) for the Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for an honest review!)
Fantastic thriller! I love, love, love the Detective Kerri Blasco books! The fourth book is full of secrets, suspects - and a ruthless killer. Five year old Charlie Sparkes witnessed his mom & her friend get shot in their apt by a masked intruder. He runs for help into the cold night, but falls into more trauma. The friend died (not a spoiler), while mother & son are taken to the hospital under police protection. Charlie is too traumatized to speak or eat. Detective Kerri Blasco & her police partner Sgt. Alex Brand are called in on the case. Soft hearted Kerri aches to help Charlie recover & remember what happened. As more people are murdered, and amid mounting pressure from the public & the brass, Kerri and the Homicide Dept. race to catch the killer before he can eliminate Charlie...
Whew! This thriller had me frantically turning pages, eager to find out what happened next! I loved the way Kerri tries to connect with Charlie. It’s very realistic - I felt I was right there with Kerri & the others, trying solve the crimes. It’s fast paced & never drags the way some thrillers do. I love the relationship between Kerri & her fellow detectives, especially with Alex Brand, her police partner/secret lover. Their romance in the Kerri Blasco books is nice and it doesn’t overwhelm the stories. There were some sympathetic characters. Plus, the humor is funny and genuine, never snide and doesn’t feel forced like in other books. As for the whodunnit & why - it definitely took me by surprise!
(Many thanks to author J.A. Schneider (Joyce Anne) for the Advanced Reader’s Copy in exchange for an honest review!)
February 28, 2018
“Shoeless Child, “ is the fourth book in an amazing series. It can be read as a stand alone, but be sure to read the others so you don’t miss out on a wonderful reading experience.
Charlie Sparks, is a five year old boy that has just witnessed a horrific and traumatic event... his mom and her friend have been gunned down.
As the gunman attempts to capture Charlie, Charlie accidentally pulls down the perpetrators mask. Would he be able to identify the gunman to authorities? Perhaps if this shoeless child is found. Perhaps if he finds his voice after becoming mute and in the fetal position due to the trauma.
This is a page turner that will keep you up beyond your bedtime.
Another winner by J. A. Schneider...
Charlie Sparks, is a five year old boy that has just witnessed a horrific and traumatic event... his mom and her friend have been gunned down.
As the gunman attempts to capture Charlie, Charlie accidentally pulls down the perpetrators mask. Would he be able to identify the gunman to authorities? Perhaps if this shoeless child is found. Perhaps if he finds his voice after becoming mute and in the fetal position due to the trauma.
This is a page turner that will keep you up beyond your bedtime.
Another winner by J. A. Schneider...
March 4, 2018
A child witnesses a terrible crime and is so traumatised that he cannot express or reveal anything even to the nice cops and doctor he trusts.
The condition of little Charlie was heartbreaking.
Also, more than the police procedurals involved in the investigation, the effect of continually seeing the depths to which humans can fall and the violence they are capable of, on the investigating cops, stood out.
Kerri's bond with Charlie was beautiful as she tried to help the innocent child break out of the protective shell of silence he had woven around himself.
A good balance of thrill and emotions.
The condition of little Charlie was heartbreaking.
Also, more than the police procedurals involved in the investigation, the effect of continually seeing the depths to which humans can fall and the violence they are capable of, on the investigating cops, stood out.
Kerri's bond with Charlie was beautiful as she tried to help the innocent child break out of the protective shell of silence he had woven around himself.
A good balance of thrill and emotions.
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