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29 Seconds
'This is my all you have to do is give me one name. And I will make that person disappear.'
When Sarah Haywood rescues a young girl in trouble, she expects nothing in return. But her instinctive act of bravery puts her in the debt of a powerful and dangerous man, and he has other ideas. He lives by his own brutal code, and all debts must be repaid - in the only way he knows how.
He offers Sarah a way to solve an impossible situation with her intolerable boss. A once-in-a-lifetime deal that could turn her life around and make all her problems disappear.
No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out.
All it takes is a 29-second phone call...
Because everyone has a name to give. Don't they?
When Sarah Haywood rescues a young girl in trouble, she expects nothing in return. But her instinctive act of bravery puts her in the debt of a powerful and dangerous man, and he has other ideas. He lives by his own brutal code, and all debts must be repaid - in the only way he knows how.
He offers Sarah a way to solve an impossible situation with her intolerable boss. A once-in-a-lifetime deal that could turn her life around and make all her problems disappear.
No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out.
All it takes is a 29-second phone call...
Because everyone has a name to give. Don't they?
434 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2018
2659 people are currently reading
17316 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Logan
20 books3,727 followersTim’s thrillers have sold more than three million copies in the UK and are published in translation in 22 other countries including Italy, Spain, Sweden, Portugal, France, Germany, Poland, Hungary, Serbia, Greece, South Korea, Romania and the Netherlands.
His 2025 novel, THE DAUGHTER, opens as Lauren arrives to pick up her daughter from university at the end of her first term – only to find a stranger answering the door. Evie’s not there, has not been there for weeks, in fact she's vanished without trace. With her young son in tow, Lauren sets off on a desperate search into the dark heart of London to find Evie before she’s lost forever…
His previous novel, THE DREAM HOME, is about a family who move into a rambling Victorian house hoping it will be their 'forever home'. But it's not long before they start to uncover secrets contained within those walls, including a hidden room on the top floor. And by the time they realise the past is better left buried, it's already too late...
THE HOLIDAY was a Richard & Judy Book Club pick and spent ten weeks in the Sunday Times paperback top ten. It has since won a Nielsen Bestseller Award and been made into a four-part TV drama starring Jill Halfpenny (currently available on Netflix UK).
THE CATCH, about a father convinced his daughter is about to marry a man with terrible secrets, has also been made into a TV drama starring Jason Watkins, Poppy Gilbert, Aneurin Barnard and Cathy Belton (also on Netflix UK).
His other books are THE MOTHER, THE CURFEW, TRUST ME, LIES and 29 SECONDS.
Tim was born in Berkshire and studied in London and Cardiff before becoming a national newspaper journalist. He lives in Nottinghamshire with his wife and two children, and writes in a cabin in the corner of his garden.
For exclusive writing and new releases from TM Logan, sign up to the Readers’ Club: www.bit.ly/TMLogan.
His 2025 novel, THE DAUGHTER, opens as Lauren arrives to pick up her daughter from university at the end of her first term – only to find a stranger answering the door. Evie’s not there, has not been there for weeks, in fact she's vanished without trace. With her young son in tow, Lauren sets off on a desperate search into the dark heart of London to find Evie before she’s lost forever…
His previous novel, THE DREAM HOME, is about a family who move into a rambling Victorian house hoping it will be their 'forever home'. But it's not long before they start to uncover secrets contained within those walls, including a hidden room on the top floor. And by the time they realise the past is better left buried, it's already too late...
THE HOLIDAY was a Richard & Judy Book Club pick and spent ten weeks in the Sunday Times paperback top ten. It has since won a Nielsen Bestseller Award and been made into a four-part TV drama starring Jill Halfpenny (currently available on Netflix UK).
THE CATCH, about a father convinced his daughter is about to marry a man with terrible secrets, has also been made into a TV drama starring Jason Watkins, Poppy Gilbert, Aneurin Barnard and Cathy Belton (also on Netflix UK).
His other books are THE MOTHER, THE CURFEW, TRUST ME, LIES and 29 SECONDS.
Tim was born in Berkshire and studied in London and Cardiff before becoming a national newspaper journalist. He lives in Nottinghamshire with his wife and two children, and writes in a cabin in the corner of his garden.
For exclusive writing and new releases from TM Logan, sign up to the Readers’ Club: www.bit.ly/TMLogan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,480 reviews
March 22, 2018
29 seconds - it's not long is it? But for Sarah, 29 seconds will have the capacity to change her life for ever, and ultimately her boss's too, much to his detriment.
When Sarah saves the life of a little girl, she has no idea that the girl's father is a rich and powerful man who only has to click his fingers to make things happen. The father is indebted to Sarah and he makes her an offer- the opportunity to make someone disappear. He has no scruples when it comes to eliminating obstacles, even if they are human. Sarah is given 72 hours to give him a name, after which the offer will no longer apply, but he's insistent that he repay his debt. What will Sarah do?
Sarah's boss is a sexual predator, who constantly puts pressure on her, under threat of losing her job - a job that she needs even more since her husband walked out leaving her with their two children to look after. Life is really difficult without losing her only income too, so the dilemma that she finds herself in is impossible - should she give her boss's name, or does she give in to his constant demands just to keep her job?
Wow! This was a thrilling read, it literally called to me whenever I put it down. The characters were perfectly at ease in their skins, played their parts to perfection with a deftly constructed narrative. The plot itself presents a darker side of life, whilst demonstrating the mundane alongside it. The reader is taken on a whirlwind of twists and turns making it a truly tense and compelling read. Just brilliant, can't recommend it enough!
This is the second book that I’ve read by T M Logan, and he really is exceptionally good. Give this one a try, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
* Thank you to Netgalley, T M Logan, and Bonnier Zaffre for my ARC. I have given an honest review in exchange*
When Sarah saves the life of a little girl, she has no idea that the girl's father is a rich and powerful man who only has to click his fingers to make things happen. The father is indebted to Sarah and he makes her an offer- the opportunity to make someone disappear. He has no scruples when it comes to eliminating obstacles, even if they are human. Sarah is given 72 hours to give him a name, after which the offer will no longer apply, but he's insistent that he repay his debt. What will Sarah do?
Sarah's boss is a sexual predator, who constantly puts pressure on her, under threat of losing her job - a job that she needs even more since her husband walked out leaving her with their two children to look after. Life is really difficult without losing her only income too, so the dilemma that she finds herself in is impossible - should she give her boss's name, or does she give in to his constant demands just to keep her job?
Wow! This was a thrilling read, it literally called to me whenever I put it down. The characters were perfectly at ease in their skins, played their parts to perfection with a deftly constructed narrative. The plot itself presents a darker side of life, whilst demonstrating the mundane alongside it. The reader is taken on a whirlwind of twists and turns making it a truly tense and compelling read. Just brilliant, can't recommend it enough!
This is the second book that I’ve read by T M Logan, and he really is exceptionally good. Give this one a try, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
* Thank you to Netgalley, T M Logan, and Bonnier Zaffre for my ARC. I have given an honest review in exchange*
August 19, 2019
FIVE CRAZY STARS
There were three conditions. She had 72 hours to provide a name. If she said no, the offer disappeared. Forever. And if she said, Yes, there was no going back. No changing her mind.
She stated at this stranger, this man she had never met before and never would again after tonight. A powerful dangerous man who found himself in her debt
It was strictly a one time deal, a once in a lifetime offer. A deal that might change her life. A deal that would almost certainly change someone elses.
It was a deal with the devil.
The rules were quite simple. Don't be alone with him if you could possibly avoid it. Don't say anything which he might take as encouragement. Don't get into a taxi or a lift with him. Be extra careful with him when you are away from the office, particularly, at hotels and conferences. And most of all, the number one rule that must never, ever, be broken: don t do any of the above when he had been drinking. He was bad when He was sober, but he was worse-much worse-when he was drunk.
Tonight he was drunk.
And Sarah realized, too late, that she was about to break all the rules at once.
This is one crazy thriller. It will blow your mind. I am utterly in awe. It lived up to all the hype for me. This has everything that I love in a thriller. I loved everything about this book. It definitely will be one of my favorites for this year. I was immediately drawn into this story. I could not put this down.
Before you open up this book make sure you have no plans for the day. Don't answer the telephone, and don't answer the door, because all you will want to do is to read this book. I am serious. At least that is how I thought. I did not want it to end. I raced through this book and read it in two days. I could not put this one down. I carried it wherever I went because I couldn't put it down.
I loved the ending. Right when I thought I had figured this one out, a big twist comes along that wasn't expected at all and it left me speechless. It was a big surprise. This one kept me on the edge of my seat. It is not a predictable read and I thought it was mind blowing and AMAZING! This one is tied in first place in my favorite shelf for this year. Crazy good!
I loved the character development and I thought it was very well written. I can't wait to read his next book and can't wait to read Lies.
I received a free ARC of 29 SECONDS by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in an exchange for an honest review.
PUB DATE: 9/10/2019
There were three conditions. She had 72 hours to provide a name. If she said no, the offer disappeared. Forever. And if she said, Yes, there was no going back. No changing her mind.
She stated at this stranger, this man she had never met before and never would again after tonight. A powerful dangerous man who found himself in her debt
It was strictly a one time deal, a once in a lifetime offer. A deal that might change her life. A deal that would almost certainly change someone elses.
It was a deal with the devil.
The rules were quite simple. Don't be alone with him if you could possibly avoid it. Don't say anything which he might take as encouragement. Don't get into a taxi or a lift with him. Be extra careful with him when you are away from the office, particularly, at hotels and conferences. And most of all, the number one rule that must never, ever, be broken: don t do any of the above when he had been drinking. He was bad when He was sober, but he was worse-much worse-when he was drunk.
Tonight he was drunk.
And Sarah realized, too late, that she was about to break all the rules at once.
This is one crazy thriller. It will blow your mind. I am utterly in awe. It lived up to all the hype for me. This has everything that I love in a thriller. I loved everything about this book. It definitely will be one of my favorites for this year. I was immediately drawn into this story. I could not put this down.
Before you open up this book make sure you have no plans for the day. Don't answer the telephone, and don't answer the door, because all you will want to do is to read this book. I am serious. At least that is how I thought. I did not want it to end. I raced through this book and read it in two days. I could not put this one down. I carried it wherever I went because I couldn't put it down.
I loved the ending. Right when I thought I had figured this one out, a big twist comes along that wasn't expected at all and it left me speechless. It was a big surprise. This one kept me on the edge of my seat. It is not a predictable read and I thought it was mind blowing and AMAZING! This one is tied in first place in my favorite shelf for this year. Crazy good!
I loved the character development and I thought it was very well written. I can't wait to read his next book and can't wait to read Lies.
I received a free ARC of 29 SECONDS by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in an exchange for an honest review.
PUB DATE: 9/10/2019
October 2, 2019
3.5 stars
This was all over the place and drove me a little crazy, but I loved the ending!
29 Seconds is a twisty and timely read about a woman who is given the opportunity to make anyone in her life permanently “disappear.” All she needs to do is make one 29 second phone call and someone will be gone forever.
29 Seconds focuses somewhat on the #metoo movement. In some ways, it is very timely and relevant. The twist of adds an interesting layer, but at the same time detracts from the significance of the events.
Since I didn’t love Lies, I wasn’t all that excited to read 29 Seconds. I went in with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised when I found myself enjoying parts of this book. At the same time, I finished 29 Seconds a week ago and it’s already fading--not a good sign. I remember the beginning and ending vividly, but what happens in between is murky. So as far as I can remember, the beginning is fascinating and puts the narrator in an intriguing situation. After this, things slow down and I grew bored. There was the occasional unexpected twist or turn that held my interest and sucked me back then, but then the boredom would occur again. I was in and out during my entire reading experience. The ending though was quite fun and tied everything together!
This was an uneven reading experience: at times disjointed and messy, while other parts were thrilling, suspenseful and entertaining.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was all over the place and drove me a little crazy, but I loved the ending!
29 Seconds is a twisty and timely read about a woman who is given the opportunity to make anyone in her life permanently “disappear.” All she needs to do is make one 29 second phone call and someone will be gone forever.
29 Seconds focuses somewhat on the #metoo movement. In some ways, it is very timely and relevant. The twist of adds an interesting layer, but at the same time detracts from the significance of the events.
Since I didn’t love Lies, I wasn’t all that excited to read 29 Seconds. I went in with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised when I found myself enjoying parts of this book. At the same time, I finished 29 Seconds a week ago and it’s already fading--not a good sign. I remember the beginning and ending vividly, but what happens in between is murky. So as far as I can remember, the beginning is fascinating and puts the narrator in an intriguing situation. After this, things slow down and I grew bored. There was the occasional unexpected twist or turn that held my interest and sucked me back then, but then the boredom would occur again. I was in and out during my entire reading experience. The ending though was quite fun and tied everything together!
This was an uneven reading experience: at times disjointed and messy, while other parts were thrilling, suspenseful and entertaining.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2018
Don't expect to pick up "29 Seconds" and be able to just read a couple of chapters because you won't. Completely addictive and utterly compelling, I was hooked immediately and knew this was going to be a truly brilliant read - I was not disappointed!
When Sarah rescues a young girl in trouble her act of bravery puts a powerful and dangerous man in her debt. He lives by his own brutal code, and all debts must be repaid - in the only way he knows how. He offers Sarah a way to solve a desperate situation with her intolerable boss. A once-in-a-lifetime deal that will make all her problems disappear. No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out.
All it takes is a 29 second phone call.
'Give me one name. One person. And I will make them disappear.....'
Because everyone has a name to give.....don't they?
I couldn't begin to imagine being in Sarah's position but I am fully aware of many situations out there involving bosses and the upper echelon that use their power to gain advantage over vulnerable people. Sexual predators are evil and I fully sympathised with Sarah, understanding her constant frustration and fear of losing her job.
Exciting, thrilling, totally engrossing this fast paced, twisty turny thriller is guaranteed to keep your attention and I absolutely LOVED the ending, my eyes felt like they were holding their breath and didn't want to blink!!
It's only March and "29 Seconds" has already secured its place in my top ten for 2018 and I will be recommending this book to everyone I possibly can.
T.M.Logan is a new author to me and now discovered he will not pass me by again! Such a talented, imaginative writer using realistic situations and combining them with a tremendous storyline to produce a cracking, compelling and irresistible page turner that intoxicates you from the first page! Fantastic work!
5 well deserved stars! I only wish I could award more!
When Sarah rescues a young girl in trouble her act of bravery puts a powerful and dangerous man in her debt. He lives by his own brutal code, and all debts must be repaid - in the only way he knows how. He offers Sarah a way to solve a desperate situation with her intolerable boss. A once-in-a-lifetime deal that will make all her problems disappear. No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out.
All it takes is a 29 second phone call.
'Give me one name. One person. And I will make them disappear.....'
Because everyone has a name to give.....don't they?
I couldn't begin to imagine being in Sarah's position but I am fully aware of many situations out there involving bosses and the upper echelon that use their power to gain advantage over vulnerable people. Sexual predators are evil and I fully sympathised with Sarah, understanding her constant frustration and fear of losing her job.
Exciting, thrilling, totally engrossing this fast paced, twisty turny thriller is guaranteed to keep your attention and I absolutely LOVED the ending, my eyes felt like they were holding their breath and didn't want to blink!!
It's only March and "29 Seconds" has already secured its place in my top ten for 2018 and I will be recommending this book to everyone I possibly can.
T.M.Logan is a new author to me and now discovered he will not pass me by again! Such a talented, imaginative writer using realistic situations and combining them with a tremendous storyline to produce a cracking, compelling and irresistible page turner that intoxicates you from the first page! Fantastic work!
5 well deserved stars! I only wish I could award more!
September 29, 2019
3.5*
Be prepared to suspend all believability! And I mean...ALL!
Oh, I was so excited to read this book! I’ve seen numerous glowing reviews and quickly moved it up my queue.
But… it didn’t quite work out as expected. Maybe if this book had been released ten years ago, maybe even five, it would have had more relevance. But in the face of the #Me Too movement, I just couldn’t get behind this story-line. I'd like to think we've come further than this... but sadly...maybe we haven't...yet!!
29 Seconds....that’s it! And all your problems will disappear! Here’s the inevitable hitch - you can never go back! Nor can you tell anyone about it. No one at all! Most importantly, are you able to live with the decision you’ve just made?
I’m usually able to go with the flow. Put my beliefs on hold as needed. But this one stretched my sense of reality too thin. I truly loved this author’s previous novel Lies. Sadly, this one just didn’t measure up for me.
With so many positive reviews out there, don’t let my opinion sway you!
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and T.M. Logan for an ARC to read and review.
Be prepared to suspend all believability! And I mean...ALL!
Oh, I was so excited to read this book! I’ve seen numerous glowing reviews and quickly moved it up my queue.
But… it didn’t quite work out as expected. Maybe if this book had been released ten years ago, maybe even five, it would have had more relevance. But in the face of the #Me Too movement, I just couldn’t get behind this story-line. I'd like to think we've come further than this... but sadly...maybe we haven't...yet!!
29 Seconds....that’s it! And all your problems will disappear! Here’s the inevitable hitch - you can never go back! Nor can you tell anyone about it. No one at all! Most importantly, are you able to live with the decision you’ve just made?
I’m usually able to go with the flow. Put my beliefs on hold as needed. But this one stretched my sense of reality too thin. I truly loved this author’s previous novel Lies. Sadly, this one just didn’t measure up for me.
With so many positive reviews out there, don’t let my opinion sway you!
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and T.M. Logan for an ARC to read and review.
November 11, 2019
29 Seconds by T.M. Logan is a 2019 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Fast, furious, crazy…
But very entertaining-
Alan Hawthorne, a university professor who rakes in millions of dollars through his television show, has gotten away with exhibiting inappropriate behavior toward his female colleagues for years.
Now, he has set his sights on Sarah, a young professor trying to find her footing in the Hawthorne controlled workplace.
Although Sarah has resisted Alan, she soon finds herself ensnared in his trap. But, before things go too far, Sarah rescues a child from an attempted kidnapping, and as payment for her good deed, the child’s father offers to rid Sarah of one person in her life.
Naturally, the desire to get Alan Hawthorne out of her life makes this offer very tempting. All she needs to do is make one 29 second phone call and the one thorn in her side will disappear. Will Sarah decide to take the man up on his offer?
This is my first book by T.M Logan, so I had nothing to compare it to. Many who have read his books may have a different take on it, but I enjoyed it well enough. Is it far-fetched and implausible? Yes, and it got more so as the novel progressed. Is the conclusion a bit too tidy?
Maybe- but it was also clever, and I didn’t figure out what was going on until all was revealed.
I’d suggest going along with the premise, despite the suspension of belief required. It’s a solid thriller if one doesn’t take it too seriously.
In the long run, this book may not be especially memorable, but it kept me entertained in the here and now and at the moment that’s good enough for me.
3.5 stars
Fast, furious, crazy…
But very entertaining-
Alan Hawthorne, a university professor who rakes in millions of dollars through his television show, has gotten away with exhibiting inappropriate behavior toward his female colleagues for years.
Now, he has set his sights on Sarah, a young professor trying to find her footing in the Hawthorne controlled workplace.
Although Sarah has resisted Alan, she soon finds herself ensnared in his trap. But, before things go too far, Sarah rescues a child from an attempted kidnapping, and as payment for her good deed, the child’s father offers to rid Sarah of one person in her life.
Naturally, the desire to get Alan Hawthorne out of her life makes this offer very tempting. All she needs to do is make one 29 second phone call and the one thorn in her side will disappear. Will Sarah decide to take the man up on his offer?
This is my first book by T.M Logan, so I had nothing to compare it to. Many who have read his books may have a different take on it, but I enjoyed it well enough. Is it far-fetched and implausible? Yes, and it got more so as the novel progressed. Is the conclusion a bit too tidy?
Maybe- but it was also clever, and I didn’t figure out what was going on until all was revealed.
I’d suggest going along with the premise, despite the suspension of belief required. It’s a solid thriller if one doesn’t take it too seriously.
In the long run, this book may not be especially memorable, but it kept me entertained in the here and now and at the moment that’s good enough for me.
3.5 stars
September 26, 2019
I've never encountered the threat of sexual abuse in the way that the main character Sarah encounters it but I have to say I've never read a book that made me feel so violated and threatened, on Sarah's behalf. I do avoid this type of subject matter usually, because it makes me feel so uncomfortable but I think the author does a fantastic job of putting us in Sarah's shoes, allowing us to feel her total helplessness to defend herself, to fight off what she knows is going to happen, to feel that total darkness is going to engulf her and there is nothing she can do.
Sarah is a college professor with a powerful, ruthless, out of control sex fiend of a boss but her husband has left her and she is supporting herself and her two children and can't leave her job to find another job that would pay much less. Sarah thinks she can just tough things out, ignore veiled threats and obvious advances, and move up the ladder but her boss makes it clear to her that's not the case. Sarah realizes she is on the brink of ruin because her boss can play God with her career, her body, and her life.
Due to a random incident, Sarah is given a chance to make a difference in her life, to get out from under this tyrant but it goes against everything that is right. Still, she considers whether she would allow something very bad to happen if there was no chance for that thing to ever be connected to her and if that thing would allow her to have a safe, unmolested life. Sarah is trapped and feels like she has nowhere to turn but can she accept what is being offered to her, with just a few simple restrictions?
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
Sarah is a college professor with a powerful, ruthless, out of control sex fiend of a boss but her husband has left her and she is supporting herself and her two children and can't leave her job to find another job that would pay much less. Sarah thinks she can just tough things out, ignore veiled threats and obvious advances, and move up the ladder but her boss makes it clear to her that's not the case. Sarah realizes she is on the brink of ruin because her boss can play God with her career, her body, and her life.
Due to a random incident, Sarah is given a chance to make a difference in her life, to get out from under this tyrant but it goes against everything that is right. Still, she considers whether she would allow something very bad to happen if there was no chance for that thing to ever be connected to her and if that thing would allow her to have a safe, unmolested life. Sarah is trapped and feels like she has nowhere to turn but can she accept what is being offered to her, with just a few simple restrictions?
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
July 18, 2022
4 stars for an immersive, gripping, and compelling plot, and here’s the story in numbers. It starts with a…
29 second phone call that could change your life. No consequences, no questions asked, no-one will ever know
1 good deed rescuing a young vulnerable and troubled girl, forces Sarah into the clutches of a powerful and dangerous man, the girl’s father. A man who has no problem in exacting punishment or revenge, even on behalf of someone else.
2 options – both dangerous. Think of all the people who have wronged you? Then you are given the opportunity for revenge against a sexual predator who is making your life a living hell. What would you do? Take the offer?
3 main plot twists that makes this a roller coaster of a ride.
4 books read by T.M Logan and all of them I’ve enjoyed. So will be reading more from this author.
Review and Comments
This was such a tense, engrossing and captivating story filled with twists and turns that truly played with your morals and sense of right and wrong. This and the time pressure really made this story. The pace and sense of danger was constant, accretive, and perpetuating. So much so I couldn’t put the book down and read into the wee hours to finish.
The only downside for me was the empathy I had for the central female character, Sarah. Or lack of it in this case. With such a moral dilemma, I should have been feeling her pain and anguish and empathised more with her predicament, but I wasn’t. Sarah’s character lacked the depth needed for someone who was wrestling morally with such life changing decisions.
Nevertheless, a great book. So, if this kind of thriller appeals to you then don’t wait 29 seconds to make up your mind.
29 second phone call that could change your life. No consequences, no questions asked, no-one will ever know
1 good deed rescuing a young vulnerable and troubled girl, forces Sarah into the clutches of a powerful and dangerous man, the girl’s father. A man who has no problem in exacting punishment or revenge, even on behalf of someone else.
2 options – both dangerous. Think of all the people who have wronged you? Then you are given the opportunity for revenge against a sexual predator who is making your life a living hell. What would you do? Take the offer?
3 main plot twists that makes this a roller coaster of a ride.
4 books read by T.M Logan and all of them I’ve enjoyed. So will be reading more from this author.
Review and Comments
This was such a tense, engrossing and captivating story filled with twists and turns that truly played with your morals and sense of right and wrong. This and the time pressure really made this story. The pace and sense of danger was constant, accretive, and perpetuating. So much so I couldn’t put the book down and read into the wee hours to finish.
The only downside for me was the empathy I had for the central female character, Sarah. Or lack of it in this case. With such a moral dilemma, I should have been feeling her pain and anguish and empathised more with her predicament, but I wasn’t. Sarah’s character lacked the depth needed for someone who was wrestling morally with such life changing decisions.
Nevertheless, a great book. So, if this kind of thriller appeals to you then don’t wait 29 seconds to make up your mind.
August 14, 2019
I didn’t realize that when I picked up 29 Seconds, it would start with a scene concerning sexual harassment. Having just finished The Whisper Network, I felt caught in a loop. But this one deals with being offered a way out of the predicament.
You see, single mom Sarah happens to save a young girl from a kidnapping. Not just any young girl, but the daughter of a very bad man. Who as a way of saying thank you, offers Sarah the opportunity to make one person disappear from her life. She’s got 72 hours to decide. What a dilemma. We would all like to think we’re too good to take up an offer like that. But I know there are a lot of days I’d be popping off a name without thinking twice. Hell, there are days when I have my own version of The Mikado’s “I’ve Got a Little List” going on in my head.
This is a fun, nerve wracking read. Logan does a great job of keeping the tension ramped up. I just wanted to see how it would play out. I couldn’t read fast enough. It definitely took me places I didn’t foresee. Sarah was a very realistic main character.
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
You see, single mom Sarah happens to save a young girl from a kidnapping. Not just any young girl, but the daughter of a very bad man. Who as a way of saying thank you, offers Sarah the opportunity to make one person disappear from her life. She’s got 72 hours to decide. What a dilemma. We would all like to think we’re too good to take up an offer like that. But I know there are a lot of days I’d be popping off a name without thinking twice. Hell, there are days when I have my own version of The Mikado’s “I’ve Got a Little List” going on in my head.
This is a fun, nerve wracking read. Logan does a great job of keeping the tension ramped up. I just wanted to see how it would play out. I couldn’t read fast enough. It definitely took me places I didn’t foresee. Sarah was a very realistic main character.
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
September 25, 2019
3 Stars.
For the first time in her life, Sarah has the chance to take the bull by the horns.
Give me one name. One person – and I will make them disappear.
It’s not so easy in practice but when given the opportunity, Sarah must make an impossible choice. A detrimental choice. Consequences be damned.
Sarah’s boss Alan has been sexually harassing her for years and unfortunately there hasn’t been a damn thing she could do about it, till now. A chance encounter on a road one morning when Sarah saved a little girl’s life that lasted all of “29 Seconds” has given her the craziest of opportunities. To make her boss disappear. Should she or shouldn’t she? That is the question.
If only this novel lived up to my expectations. Having read T.M. Logan’s last novel, I was really looking forward to “29 Seconds” – however this novel just missed the mark as I felt like the storyline left something to be desired and on the whole felt like the plot was a bit farfetched. That said, I do enjoy T.M. Logan’s writing and will be on the lookout for his next release.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and T.M. Logan for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 9.25.19.
For the first time in her life, Sarah has the chance to take the bull by the horns.
Give me one name. One person – and I will make them disappear.
It’s not so easy in practice but when given the opportunity, Sarah must make an impossible choice. A detrimental choice. Consequences be damned.
Sarah’s boss Alan has been sexually harassing her for years and unfortunately there hasn’t been a damn thing she could do about it, till now. A chance encounter on a road one morning when Sarah saved a little girl’s life that lasted all of “29 Seconds” has given her the craziest of opportunities. To make her boss disappear. Should she or shouldn’t she? That is the question.
If only this novel lived up to my expectations. Having read T.M. Logan’s last novel, I was really looking forward to “29 Seconds” – however this novel just missed the mark as I felt like the storyline left something to be desired and on the whole felt like the plot was a bit farfetched. That said, I do enjoy T.M. Logan’s writing and will be on the lookout for his next release.
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and T.M. Logan for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 9.25.19.
May 31, 2019
I got an arc from a publisher for this one and I agreed to be honest in my review. Sorry, but if you say "honest", you are going to get it.
This book was supposed to be a psychological thriller. A lady who is being sexually harassed at work gets the chance to have anyone she wants "disappear". I liked the idea. The problem was the heroine, Sarah. She had to be the biggest loser ever. I hated her enough that I would have liked to "disappear" her by the end of the thing.
Well, almost. Except that I can spell vaccinate. Still.... I get the sentiment.
Sarah is a loser who whines continuously in her head about how much of a victim she is for 350 pages. Between the pages and pages of her pity-party, we get exciting moments of her dressing her children and taking them to school, and petty squabbles her kids have. You know, the boring monotony of life that we read to get away from.
Yeah, this kind of thing. But less funny.
When she finally (162 pages in) does what we knew she would do the whole book, we then get to see her whine about having done it and act like a guilty toddler.
convincing.
The situation she finds herself in with her boss is unfortunately possibly realistic, so I did feel sympathy for her. But, at the same time, I couldn't understand her actions. She did absolutely nothing to rectify the situation, but waited for someone else to save her. She didn't try to record him telling her that she had to have sex with him to keep her job. She never considered quitting, telling his wife, or filing charges against him. She even met a past victim of her boss and didn't think to get this lady's number so that they could find others and build a case. She did, however, consider sleeping with him to keep her job. So, basically this book is just being in this pathetic woman's head with her pathetic thoughts. If I liked her at all, or could relate to her in any way, I might have enjoyed it. But, I didn't. Not at all.
Now, for the legal crap:
"I received a free ARC of 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in exchange for an honest review."
This book was supposed to be a psychological thriller. A lady who is being sexually harassed at work gets the chance to have anyone she wants "disappear". I liked the idea. The problem was the heroine, Sarah. She had to be the biggest loser ever. I hated her enough that I would have liked to "disappear" her by the end of the thing.
Well, almost. Except that I can spell vaccinate. Still.... I get the sentiment.
Sarah is a loser who whines continuously in her head about how much of a victim she is for 350 pages. Between the pages and pages of her pity-party, we get exciting moments of her dressing her children and taking them to school, and petty squabbles her kids have. You know, the boring monotony of life that we read to get away from.
Yeah, this kind of thing. But less funny.
When she finally (162 pages in) does what we knew she would do the whole book, we then get to see her whine about having done it and act like a guilty toddler.
convincing.
The situation she finds herself in with her boss is unfortunately possibly realistic, so I did feel sympathy for her. But, at the same time, I couldn't understand her actions. She did absolutely nothing to rectify the situation, but waited for someone else to save her. She didn't try to record him telling her that she had to have sex with him to keep her job. She never considered quitting, telling his wife, or filing charges against him. She even met a past victim of her boss and didn't think to get this lady's number so that they could find others and build a case. She did, however, consider sleeping with him to keep her job. So, basically this book is just being in this pathetic woman's head with her pathetic thoughts. If I liked her at all, or could relate to her in any way, I might have enjoyed it. But, I didn't. Not at all.
Now, for the legal crap:
"I received a free ARC of 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in exchange for an honest review."
September 7, 2019
Give me one name. One person. And I will make them disappear . . ..
When Sarah rescues a young girl in danger, a powerful man vows to repay the debt...all he needs is one name and that person will disappear no questions asked.
Sarah never thinks she will call him on this promise, but she is dealing with her husband leaving her and their two children, for life with another woman. As if that is not enough, Sarah is dealing with sexual harassment at work. Her boss is holding her job and job advancement in his hands, making sexual overtures and advances, letting her know the only way to keep her job is to sleep with him.
What's a girl to do?
I had such high hopes for this book that dealt with sexual predators, but it just never really grabbed me. I can't fault the writing as I found it to be good. The story line just didn't work for me for most of the book, although it does pick up at the end which earned the 3-star rating for me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
When Sarah rescues a young girl in danger, a powerful man vows to repay the debt...all he needs is one name and that person will disappear no questions asked.
Sarah never thinks she will call him on this promise, but she is dealing with her husband leaving her and their two children, for life with another woman. As if that is not enough, Sarah is dealing with sexual harassment at work. Her boss is holding her job and job advancement in his hands, making sexual overtures and advances, letting her know the only way to keep her job is to sleep with him.
What's a girl to do?
I had such high hopes for this book that dealt with sexual predators, but it just never really grabbed me. I can't fault the writing as I found it to be good. The story line just didn't work for me for most of the book, although it does pick up at the end which earned the 3-star rating for me.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2019
Well, that took a turn!
Dr. Sarah Haywood is a contract teaching assistant at Queen Anne University, hoping for a permanent position she’s worked hard to earn. However, the path to that promotion is through a powerful and esteemed professor, Alan Hawthorne, who’s also a notorious sexual harasser. Sarah has successfully navigated herself out of his clutches but now that her career is on the line, he’s got her cornered, literally and figuratively. A chance situation puts another powerful man in her debt who offers her the opportunity to give him one name...someone she wishes would just disappear. But Sarah’s uncertain if she’s willing to cross that line.
I’d heard so much praise for the author’s previous book, I readily accepted the offer to review this one, going into it blind. That was a great decision as I hadn’t any preparation for this story and it wreaked an emotional toll. Younger women may not have yet faced men like Hawthorne in their careers but his was a familiar profile for me. I understood Sarah’s sense of desperation, powerlessness and futility with not only Hawthorne but a broken system that allowed him to thrive. I didn’t know if I wanted her to accept the offer or not but just wanted her to get what was due her and him to pay a price. You’ll have to read the story to find out the outcome.
There are quite a few twists and turns and the ending took my breath away. I was trying to finish this in one day but couldn’t last. But, I woke determined to learn what happened. I promise you a range of emotions and a thrilling ride. Loved and hated this book...read it and you’ll understand.
(I received a free ARC from Macmillan in an exchange for an honest review.)
Dr. Sarah Haywood is a contract teaching assistant at Queen Anne University, hoping for a permanent position she’s worked hard to earn. However, the path to that promotion is through a powerful and esteemed professor, Alan Hawthorne, who’s also a notorious sexual harasser. Sarah has successfully navigated herself out of his clutches but now that her career is on the line, he’s got her cornered, literally and figuratively. A chance situation puts another powerful man in her debt who offers her the opportunity to give him one name...someone she wishes would just disappear. But Sarah’s uncertain if she’s willing to cross that line.
I’d heard so much praise for the author’s previous book, I readily accepted the offer to review this one, going into it blind. That was a great decision as I hadn’t any preparation for this story and it wreaked an emotional toll. Younger women may not have yet faced men like Hawthorne in their careers but his was a familiar profile for me. I understood Sarah’s sense of desperation, powerlessness and futility with not only Hawthorne but a broken system that allowed him to thrive. I didn’t know if I wanted her to accept the offer or not but just wanted her to get what was due her and him to pay a price. You’ll have to read the story to find out the outcome.
There are quite a few twists and turns and the ending took my breath away. I was trying to finish this in one day but couldn’t last. But, I woke determined to learn what happened. I promise you a range of emotions and a thrilling ride. Loved and hated this book...read it and you’ll understand.
(I received a free ARC from Macmillan in an exchange for an honest review.)
August 13, 2019
Dr Sarah Haywood is a young, up and coming academic. She's worked hard to build up her reputation as a good teacher and researcher and has some excellent publications, all while caring for her two small children on her own. However, her hopes of promotion to a permanent position are dashed when her Head of Department, Professor Alan Hawthorne tells her she will have to remain at the same level on a short term contract for another year and any chance of future promotion will depend on how she treats him. As he is a well known sexual predator, Sarah knows exactly what he expects her to do to earn her promotion. As Hawthorne puts pressure on Sarah and her situation becomes more and more difficult, she receives an offer that will make all her worries over her career go away. All it would take is one short phone call, but only if she can overcome her ethical dilemma.
This is an excellent page turner of a psychological thriller. The impossibility of Sarah's position made me feel really stressed for her. She can't report Hawthorne to the Dean or to HR because of the old boys network and his celebrity status as a TV star and her niche area of study would make it hard for her move to another University, without starting all over again to establish herself in a new area. Hawthorne is a monster of a man who has already ruined other careers and thinks he's untouchable. But Sarah is a fighter and she won't give up easily in this game of cat and mouse.
Great plot, great characters and a killer ending!
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book
This is an excellent page turner of a psychological thriller. The impossibility of Sarah's position made me feel really stressed for her. She can't report Hawthorne to the Dean or to HR because of the old boys network and his celebrity status as a TV star and her niche area of study would make it hard for her move to another University, without starting all over again to establish herself in a new area. Hawthorne is a monster of a man who has already ruined other careers and thinks he's untouchable. But Sarah is a fighter and she won't give up easily in this game of cat and mouse.
Great plot, great characters and a killer ending!
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book
September 8, 2019
In 29 seconds your entire life could change...and you could destroy someone's life in 29 seconds...all with one little phone call...
If you could make someone disappear with just a simple phone call and nobody would ever know you were behind it. Would you do it? Would you be tempted? How is that for a teaser for this book?! I had to read it. Not only that but I loved T.M. Logan's last book- Lies. I was so intrigued by this blurb that I couldn't wait to see what this was about.
Alan Hawthorne is quite frankly a piece of work. We all probably know one. That guy that has been with the company for so long and everyone knows of him so he becomes "untouchable". Basically Alan can do whatever Alan feels like and get away with it. He should really be fired for all the disgusting things he does, but it is a good old boys club and boys will be boys. Got to love that! UGH! I was so angry for Sarah that she had to endure this behavior. I wanted to scream at Sarah to leave the situation. It was so frustrating to read all the things she had to put up with. However, Sarah made a great point, why should she leave the job she has worked for so hard? Sarah has done nothing wrong, other than be a female in a man dominated environment.
So when Sarah is offered a sweet deal from a shady character, well it sounded too good to be true. She has 72 hours to pick a name, any name, someone that she could make disappear. Would she do it? This could solve all her problems. Or is it too good to be true?
This book had me on the edge of my seat for most of this crazy, intriguing ride. I love that the author stuck with his short chapters, much like Lies. He has a knack for ending each one with a line that would draw me right into turning the next page and saying okay one more chapter.
Thank you so much to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a gorgeous ARC. I really enjoyed getting the chance to read another great book from T.M. Logan!
If you could make someone disappear with just a simple phone call and nobody would ever know you were behind it. Would you do it? Would you be tempted? How is that for a teaser for this book?! I had to read it. Not only that but I loved T.M. Logan's last book- Lies. I was so intrigued by this blurb that I couldn't wait to see what this was about.
Alan Hawthorne is quite frankly a piece of work. We all probably know one. That guy that has been with the company for so long and everyone knows of him so he becomes "untouchable". Basically Alan can do whatever Alan feels like and get away with it. He should really be fired for all the disgusting things he does, but it is a good old boys club and boys will be boys. Got to love that! UGH! I was so angry for Sarah that she had to endure this behavior. I wanted to scream at Sarah to leave the situation. It was so frustrating to read all the things she had to put up with. However, Sarah made a great point, why should she leave the job she has worked for so hard? Sarah has done nothing wrong, other than be a female in a man dominated environment.
So when Sarah is offered a sweet deal from a shady character, well it sounded too good to be true. She has 72 hours to pick a name, any name, someone that she could make disappear. Would she do it? This could solve all her problems. Or is it too good to be true?
This book had me on the edge of my seat for most of this crazy, intriguing ride. I love that the author stuck with his short chapters, much like Lies. He has a knack for ending each one with a line that would draw me right into turning the next page and saying okay one more chapter.
Thank you so much to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a gorgeous ARC. I really enjoyed getting the chance to read another great book from T.M. Logan!
September 5, 2019
A timely, compelling thriller! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Sarah is just starting out with her first professor job, working under Alan Hawthorne, a well known scholar and TV host. Hawthorne is bringing in millions of dollars in grants while he mistreats women and has gotten away with it for years. He now has his sights set on Sarah.
Hawthorne is becoming more dangerous in his advances towards Sarah, and she’s feeling trapped. That all changes when, while driving home, she helps a young child being kidnapped. The father of that child is a bit of a brigand, and he’s in her debt, offering to make all her “problems” disappear. Sarah’s only problem? You know the one.
All she has to do is make a 29 second phone call.
Gosh, I got looped into Sarah’s story fast. I’m sure so many can relate to her. Logan did an impeccable job with these characters. I could imagine them perfectly. Everything heats up after Sarah saves the little girl, and it’s all such a wildly entertaining ride of unpredictability!
Overall, this is another one of those one-sitting, compulsive, addictive reads, so be prepared. Original from start to finish and timely, T.M. Logan has delivered another bold thriller!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Sarah is just starting out with her first professor job, working under Alan Hawthorne, a well known scholar and TV host. Hawthorne is bringing in millions of dollars in grants while he mistreats women and has gotten away with it for years. He now has his sights set on Sarah.
Hawthorne is becoming more dangerous in his advances towards Sarah, and she’s feeling trapped. That all changes when, while driving home, she helps a young child being kidnapped. The father of that child is a bit of a brigand, and he’s in her debt, offering to make all her “problems” disappear. Sarah’s only problem? You know the one.
All she has to do is make a 29 second phone call.
Gosh, I got looped into Sarah’s story fast. I’m sure so many can relate to her. Logan did an impeccable job with these characters. I could imagine them perfectly. Everything heats up after Sarah saves the little girl, and it’s all such a wildly entertaining ride of unpredictability!
Overall, this is another one of those one-sitting, compulsive, addictive reads, so be prepared. Original from start to finish and timely, T.M. Logan has delivered another bold thriller!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
April 6, 2018
3.5 "Stick-to-the-Rules" Stars
Professor Alan is an outstanding scholar and a gifted researcher, one of the best but he’s harassing Sarah. They work in the same university but Sarah’s contract isn’t permanent yet and the only obstacle to her contract is Alan. So because of Alan’s influence, she can’t make a complaint. But she did something and her reward is she can provide a name and that person will be disappeared! But can she do that? Or she thinks about something else!? But it’s her reward so it’s her right to choose a name, right?!
This book was really thrilling and I really liked it! I liked the writing, the short chapters were in my favor though. But the ending was a disappointment! I had high expectation for its ending! It was my first read by this author but I will try other books by the author because I really liked the writing! Anyway, it was a good thrilling read and I hope you enjoy it!
Professor Alan is an outstanding scholar and a gifted researcher, one of the best but he’s harassing Sarah. They work in the same university but Sarah’s contract isn’t permanent yet and the only obstacle to her contract is Alan. So because of Alan’s influence, she can’t make a complaint. But she did something and her reward is she can provide a name and that person will be disappeared! But can she do that? Or she thinks about something else!? But it’s her reward so it’s her right to choose a name, right?!
This book was really thrilling and I really liked it! I liked the writing, the short chapters were in my favor though. But the ending was a disappointment! I had high expectation for its ending! It was my first read by this author but I will try other books by the author because I really liked the writing! Anyway, it was a good thrilling read and I hope you enjoy it!
April 12, 2019
4.5 stars!
Damn this was so good! I loved the author's debut last year Lies, but this book was definitely better. Sarah, recently separated from her husband, is juggling raising two kids and her workload as a university professor. A job that she loves, but that one of the men in her department makes exceedingly hard. When she rescues a little girl from a kidnapping attempt, a grateful father offers to do a favour for Sarah. The offer to remove a person from her life- PERMANENTLY. The only stipulation- she has 72 hours and once she makes the call, the action cannot be undone.
Oh my gosh, this book frustrated me so much when it came to what Sarah had to face on a daily basis. I am glad our protagonist tried to maintain some morals because I don't think I would have had a problem dialling that phone number. But I just couldn't put the book down and I felt my heart racing the entire time. A good dose of a suspense and a storyline that had me hooked! I predict that this book is certainly going to be one of FALL 2019's most anticipated books.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a digital galley in exchange for an honest review.
Review Date: 12/04/19
Publication Date 10/09/19
Damn this was so good! I loved the author's debut last year Lies, but this book was definitely better. Sarah, recently separated from her husband, is juggling raising two kids and her workload as a university professor. A job that she loves, but that one of the men in her department makes exceedingly hard. When she rescues a little girl from a kidnapping attempt, a grateful father offers to do a favour for Sarah. The offer to remove a person from her life- PERMANENTLY. The only stipulation- she has 72 hours and once she makes the call, the action cannot be undone.
Oh my gosh, this book frustrated me so much when it came to what Sarah had to face on a daily basis. I am glad our protagonist tried to maintain some morals because I don't think I would have had a problem dialling that phone number. But I just couldn't put the book down and I felt my heart racing the entire time. A good dose of a suspense and a storyline that had me hooked! I predict that this book is certainly going to be one of FALL 2019's most anticipated books.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a digital galley in exchange for an honest review.
Review Date: 12/04/19
Publication Date 10/09/19
June 11, 2019
I received a free e-copy of 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan from NetGalley for my honest review.
Wow, what a crazy and thrilling read!
Sarah, a mother of two children, works at the University with Dr. Alan Hawthorne. Dr. Hawthorne is a disgusting, sexist man who finds a way to get what he wants and has been doing so for many, many years. Unfortunately, Sarah is next on his list. He tells Sarah that unless she gives him what she wants, she won't get her promotion she has coming up.
Sarah doesn't now who to deal with the situation at hand. Then she witness' an attempted kidnapping in which Sarah's actions lead to the girl escaping. The girls father is very thankful and offers her an opportunity to get rid of her problems. All Sarah has to do is give him a name and he will make that person disappear without a trace. What would you do???
Wow, what a crazy and thrilling read!
Sarah, a mother of two children, works at the University with Dr. Alan Hawthorne. Dr. Hawthorne is a disgusting, sexist man who finds a way to get what he wants and has been doing so for many, many years. Unfortunately, Sarah is next on his list. He tells Sarah that unless she gives him what she wants, she won't get her promotion she has coming up.
Sarah doesn't now who to deal with the situation at hand. Then she witness' an attempted kidnapping in which Sarah's actions lead to the girl escaping. The girls father is very thankful and offers her an opportunity to get rid of her problems. All Sarah has to do is give him a name and he will make that person disappear without a trace. What would you do???
November 14, 2017
29 Seconds by T.M.Logan is a psychological thriller that kept my hooked from the first page to the last. I could not put it down and read it in one day, 3am before I finished it. Sarah is a hard working mother of two young children. Deserted by her husband and trying to cope. Her boss is a bully and a sexual predator who makes it clear that if she wants to do well in her career she has to agree to his advances. Sarah is then offered a way to get rid of her boss for good but will she agree to this offer? Sarah was a great character and I was rooting for her all the way. This books has many twist and turns and keeps you guessing about the outcome. I have now downloaded the first book from this author and I am looking forward to reading it.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Bonnier Zaffre for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2019
29 Seconds is a taut, beautifully crafted thriller that begs the question: Is there anything you wouldn't do if your back was pressed against the wall and you were on the verge of losing everything? Dr. Sarah Haywood is a temporary research assistant in line for a permanent position at Queen Anne University. By all rights, Sarah should get the upcoming department promotion as she has put in her time and paid her dues. Unfortunately, her fate is in the hands of her immediate supervisor Professor Hawthorne - an influential, devious sexual predator who's made it crystal clear the only way Sarah will get a promotion is to submit to his sexual demands. Hawthorne is one of the untouchables as he's earned his crown in the workplace good-old-boy's club. The man is a snake whose sordid reputation is so well-known among women co-workers that they've developed a list of rules for surviving his unwanted advances. Rule #1 - Never, ever be alone with him. Through Sarah's point of view, readers see a desperate woman who has reached the end of her rope as she faces a life-altering decision. One that sorely tests her convictions and morals after an unexpected event results in her being thrown a lifeline - a one time chance to be rid of Hawthorne for good. A short window of opportunity has opened, but it means making a deal with the devil. Are the unexpected consequences worth the price?
29 Seconds is a taut, fast-paced thriller with sharp curves that will keep you on your toes. I quickly became totally engrossed in this story that tackles the never-ending issue of sexual harassment of employees in the workplace by an influential superior. The torrid pace and menacing tone had my heart racing as I burned through pages to uncover the outcome. Logan masterfully manipulates these characters into stressful situations and then charges them with finding their own way out, painting an all-too-real picture of survival of the fittest in a toxic workplace where upper management turns a blind eye to a manipulative, abusive sexual predator. By way of a twisted, tightly woven plot line, the author explores morals and facing the consequences of ones actions. His interspersed descriptive passages of Sarah's everyday home life with her two girls clearly defines what's at stake for Sarah as readers are afforded an opportunity to understand what she has to lose should she fail. I devoured this book and thought I was prepared for the ending, but Hello! Logan still managed to surprise me in the end! Brilliantly written and delivered, 29 Seconds is a fantastic story that fans of suspense thrillers will love!
**With special thanks to the publisher for an arc of this book!
***Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
29 Seconds is a taut, fast-paced thriller with sharp curves that will keep you on your toes. I quickly became totally engrossed in this story that tackles the never-ending issue of sexual harassment of employees in the workplace by an influential superior. The torrid pace and menacing tone had my heart racing as I burned through pages to uncover the outcome. Logan masterfully manipulates these characters into stressful situations and then charges them with finding their own way out, painting an all-too-real picture of survival of the fittest in a toxic workplace where upper management turns a blind eye to a manipulative, abusive sexual predator. By way of a twisted, tightly woven plot line, the author explores morals and facing the consequences of ones actions. His interspersed descriptive passages of Sarah's everyday home life with her two girls clearly defines what's at stake for Sarah as readers are afforded an opportunity to understand what she has to lose should she fail. I devoured this book and thought I was prepared for the ending, but Hello! Logan still managed to surprise me in the end! Brilliantly written and delivered, 29 Seconds is a fantastic story that fans of suspense thrillers will love!
**With special thanks to the publisher for an arc of this book!
***Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
September 9, 2019
3.5 stars
I've given this book the same rating as the author's last book but I do think this one ended up being a smidge better. If you think you can handle a book dealing with the topic of sexual harassment and you enjoyed the author's previous novel, you should give this one a look. It's not perfect, but I do like what the author did with the last part of the book.
If the #metoo movement has taught us anything it's there are horrible sexual predators in every segment of the workforce. In the case of this story, Sarah is trying her best to succeed in the academic world and well-known and powerful professor Alan Hawthorne wants to help her, but in a totally slimy, sleazeball way. After Sarah comes to the rescue of a small child, the parent is so grateful, he tells her he is willing to take care of anyone who might be giving her problems. And by take care, he means eliminate that person. Sounds far-fetched but the man is involved in some shady dealings with dangerous people so if you ever need a hitman, this is your guy. Now, will Sarah take this man up on his offer to get rid of Alan?
Given the subject matter this is an uncomfortable book to read at times. Sarah was also a frustrating character as it could be difficult to always understand her motivations for doing things. That's the same issue I ran into when reading the author's other book, Lies. Like I mentioned before though, the third part of the book is where everything comes together and makes more sense. I probably would have only rated this book at 3 stars had the author not pulled together a pretty good ending.
I received a free arc of 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in exchange for an honest review.
I've given this book the same rating as the author's last book but I do think this one ended up being a smidge better. If you think you can handle a book dealing with the topic of sexual harassment and you enjoyed the author's previous novel, you should give this one a look. It's not perfect, but I do like what the author did with the last part of the book.
If the #metoo movement has taught us anything it's there are horrible sexual predators in every segment of the workforce. In the case of this story, Sarah is trying her best to succeed in the academic world and well-known and powerful professor Alan Hawthorne wants to help her, but in a totally slimy, sleazeball way. After Sarah comes to the rescue of a small child, the parent is so grateful, he tells her he is willing to take care of anyone who might be giving her problems. And by take care, he means eliminate that person. Sounds far-fetched but the man is involved in some shady dealings with dangerous people so if you ever need a hitman, this is your guy. Now, will Sarah take this man up on his offer to get rid of Alan?
Given the subject matter this is an uncomfortable book to read at times. Sarah was also a frustrating character as it could be difficult to always understand her motivations for doing things. That's the same issue I ran into when reading the author's other book, Lies. Like I mentioned before though, the third part of the book is where everything comes together and makes more sense. I probably would have only rated this book at 3 stars had the author not pulled together a pretty good ending.
I received a free arc of 29 Seconds by T.M. Logan from Macmillan in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2025
29 de secunde, o nimica toată și totuși totul. Nu mă așteptam la un subiect atât de complex, delicat și atât de puțin discutat, mai ales din partea unui bărbat. O intrigă și un final foarte alerte și incitante, o carte care merită toată atenția, pentru o clipă chiar m-a "păcălit" la final.
June 18, 2019
Spoilers because I just want to vent about this shitty thriller I read.
This is a… well I don’t have an adequate word to call it. It’s bad, so bad, the more I read the more pissed I was at it; at first I thought it’ll be a 3 star book with the eh feeling following it, however it just went downhill and here we are with me wishing I could just give it a minus 1.
If you want to know the basis of the book just read the synopsis because all is said there, there’s no freaking mystery of what you should expect and after you read the first chapter you’ll know the name Sarah will give. All that’s okay, or at least it would’ve been if the call of 29 seconds happened somewhere in the very beginning, but it didn’t.
The characters are undeveloped; they are given a trait that they don’t get out of. Sarah is stupid through the whole book, although she has a bright moment at the end. Alan is a predator, untouchable, extra smart and always a step ahead. Sarah’s father always there for her. Other characters didn’t do much for the story: she had two friends and I couldn’t make them apart, one was there just to be a spy for Alan and after Sarah discovered she just disappears; her husband, I have no idea why he’s mentioned, he could’ve been omitted from the story; Sarah’s kids, oh boy, every time they appeared they argued and fought and whined, except that they did nothing and I don’t see how that was important for the story.
For almost 100 pages we get to see Sarah’s colleague, Alan, sexually harassing her and her thinking it’ll all be over soon and not taking any action against him because he’s basically the rock star of the university. I can understand that, thinking something will pass and not doing anything, but then I found out he’s been harassing her (and other women) for TWO YEARS! For two freaking years and she hasn’t reported it, actually no one has, what? I’m sorry that I don’t care that you whine about it, you should’ve reported him to HR, to the police, you should’ve DONE something.
Moving on, although you can’t actually move on because we are beaten over the head with the fact that Alan is a slimy son of a bitch and he gets away with anything, he’s so freaking smart. So, she saves a kid and the kid’s father gives her an “I’ll make anyone disappear just tell me a name” deal, cuz why the hell not? After the huge dilemma (we obviously know what she’ll do, it’s not really a big mystery) and those 29 seconds where she gives Alan’s name we get to be in Sarah’s head (yay!) and her constant whining how she now doesn’t want to make Alan go poof. For a second there she wanted to tell him she gave his name to a guy that’ll make him disappear. How stupid are you, Sarah? I think if she had done that I would’ve DNF-ed the book so fast because… stupid! I just don’t know how to… I just don’t’ know.
And as it progresses it doesn’t get any better. He does disappear and she’s drowning in guilt, if that isn’t enough someone sends her a message saying they know what she’s done and that they are coming to her house. Surprise! It’s Alan, the police found him… accidently in the trunk of a Russian’s car (great job 29 seconds guy). Of course since this book is about harassment he’ll blackmail her to sleep with him until he gets bored with her unless she wants to end up in jail. ??? What the fuck was I reading?
Her final plan to catch him is half stupid, half impressive. For a second there I was impressed with her plan, the whole plan the one we get to know at the very end, but then I remembered her in those 290 pages I read and well… I don’t buy it. If she was so smart to make an interesting and winning plan why, WHY, didn’t she do ANYTHING about the harassment? And then other things didn’t make sense like not telling her father and the friend about the whole plan & so many people jumping on the chance to set Alan for a crime. I mean yeah, pretty much every one hated him but it’s too smooth and this book is a lot of things except that.
After the first chapter I thought by the end there’ll be a message how to deal with harassment—you know something helpful— sadly I was disappointed not that far into the book. The main character was pissed because no one was doing anything about that professor that harasses his female colleagues but she too did nothing, she just sat there hoping it’ll pass which is NOT a good option. That irked me so much. And there was also a part where she just wanted to end it all because she saw no way out, she wanted to overdose. It’s giving a wrong message.
This is a… well I don’t have an adequate word to call it. It’s bad, so bad, the more I read the more pissed I was at it; at first I thought it’ll be a 3 star book with the eh feeling following it, however it just went downhill and here we are with me wishing I could just give it a minus 1.
If you want to know the basis of the book just read the synopsis because all is said there, there’s no freaking mystery of what you should expect and after you read the first chapter you’ll know the name Sarah will give. All that’s okay, or at least it would’ve been if the call of 29 seconds happened somewhere in the very beginning, but it didn’t.
The characters are undeveloped; they are given a trait that they don’t get out of. Sarah is stupid through the whole book, although she has a bright moment at the end. Alan is a predator, untouchable, extra smart and always a step ahead. Sarah’s father always there for her. Other characters didn’t do much for the story: she had two friends and I couldn’t make them apart, one was there just to be a spy for Alan and after Sarah discovered she just disappears; her husband, I have no idea why he’s mentioned, he could’ve been omitted from the story; Sarah’s kids, oh boy, every time they appeared they argued and fought and whined, except that they did nothing and I don’t see how that was important for the story.
For almost 100 pages we get to see Sarah’s colleague, Alan, sexually harassing her and her thinking it’ll all be over soon and not taking any action against him because he’s basically the rock star of the university. I can understand that, thinking something will pass and not doing anything, but then I found out he’s been harassing her (and other women) for TWO YEARS! For two freaking years and she hasn’t reported it, actually no one has, what? I’m sorry that I don’t care that you whine about it, you should’ve reported him to HR, to the police, you should’ve DONE something.
Moving on, although you can’t actually move on because we are beaten over the head with the fact that Alan is a slimy son of a bitch and he gets away with anything, he’s so freaking smart. So, she saves a kid and the kid’s father gives her an “I’ll make anyone disappear just tell me a name” deal, cuz why the hell not? After the huge dilemma (we obviously know what she’ll do, it’s not really a big mystery) and those 29 seconds where she gives Alan’s name we get to be in Sarah’s head (yay!) and her constant whining how she now doesn’t want to make Alan go poof. For a second there she wanted to tell him she gave his name to a guy that’ll make him disappear. How stupid are you, Sarah? I think if she had done that I would’ve DNF-ed the book so fast because… stupid! I just don’t know how to… I just don’t’ know.
And as it progresses it doesn’t get any better. He does disappear and she’s drowning in guilt, if that isn’t enough someone sends her a message saying they know what she’s done and that they are coming to her house. Surprise! It’s Alan, the police found him… accidently in the trunk of a Russian’s car (great job 29 seconds guy). Of course since this book is about harassment he’ll blackmail her to sleep with him until he gets bored with her unless she wants to end up in jail. ??? What the fuck was I reading?
Her final plan to catch him is half stupid, half impressive. For a second there I was impressed with her plan, the whole plan the one we get to know at the very end, but then I remembered her in those 290 pages I read and well… I don’t buy it. If she was so smart to make an interesting and winning plan why, WHY, didn’t she do ANYTHING about the harassment? And then other things didn’t make sense like not telling her father and the friend about the whole plan & so many people jumping on the chance to set Alan for a crime. I mean yeah, pretty much every one hated him but it’s too smooth and this book is a lot of things except that.
After the first chapter I thought by the end there’ll be a message how to deal with harassment—you know something helpful— sadly I was disappointed not that far into the book. The main character was pissed because no one was doing anything about that professor that harasses his female colleagues but she too did nothing, she just sat there hoping it’ll pass which is NOT a good option. That irked me so much. And there was also a part where she just wanted to end it all because she saw no way out, she wanted to overdose. It’s giving a wrong message.
October 3, 2019
A twisting, tantalizing ride that had me glued to this book to the very final page. What a story!!! What an ending!!! T. M. Logan is one of my favorite writers and this was probably my favorite book yet. In 29 Seconds, a good deed leads to an offer that is hard to turn down, and those 29 seconds set a plan in motion that will change everything…
About the Book
Sarah Haywood is working hard to get a permanent position at Queen Anne University for two years. She gets top marks from her students, has a steady publication record, has helped launch a new program, and has even found leads for grant funding for their department. But all of her hard work won’t matter as long as Alan Hawthorne is in charge of the department. Given his TV fame, high grant funding, and social connections with the University bigwigs, no one goes anywhere without Alan’s approval.
When Sarah is picking her kids up from daycare one day and witnesses something horrible, she acts on instinct and saves the life of a young girl. A few days later, Sarah is contacted by someone who knows what she did. He wants to reward a rare act of selflessness in a very unique way. He gives Sarah and phone and he tells her that she has 72 hours to call the number in the phone and give them a name. Any name. And that person will disappear.
No second chances. Once the decision is made, Sarah can’t change her mind. Sarah can’t imagine herself taking the deal. Until she gets pushed too far. Sarah makes a 29 second phone call, and it sets in motion a series of events that can’t be stopped…
Reflection
The premise of this book gives me chills whenever I think about it. When I first thought about the deal I felt like Sarah did. Sure, there are people I’d prefer to not have to deal with. But making that call would mean I took action that adversely impacted someone else. But as the story unfolds, we see the terrifying events that push Sarah to her limits.
Alan Hawthorne is QUITE a character. As a doctoral student myself, Logan’s portrayal of the university environment really resonated with me. When you are lower in academia—a grad student or a new professor trying to make tenure—the system rarely works for you. Academia allows power and influence to thrive. A bad track record in academia, even when undeserved, blacklists you from the industry.
Alan Hawthorne was flawlessly written. He is the perfect villain—manipulative, seductive, and diabolical enough that I fell into the trap over and over thinking he might have a limit to his behavior. I can’t wait for readers to see the way Hawthorne works—it is terrifying and brilliant!
Sarah is such a wonderful character as well. She has so much complexity to her story. I didn’t share quite a bit about Sarah in my teaser and I think I will hold off, because her life situation is so fascinating. Her family dynamics, her background in her field, and where she is at in her career—these all made Sarah’s character leap right off the page. And as the book unfolds, from her good deed to the phone call to the aftermath, Sarah is full of surprises. She is a delightful character. I’d read a whole series about Sarah if I could!
The ending…it’s quite frankly jaw-dropping!!! The entire book is twisted, fast-paced, and completely diabolical!!! A must-read thriller with a fascinating premise and an even better delivery!!
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for my copy. Opinions are my own.
About the Book
Sarah Haywood is working hard to get a permanent position at Queen Anne University for two years. She gets top marks from her students, has a steady publication record, has helped launch a new program, and has even found leads for grant funding for their department. But all of her hard work won’t matter as long as Alan Hawthorne is in charge of the department. Given his TV fame, high grant funding, and social connections with the University bigwigs, no one goes anywhere without Alan’s approval.
When Sarah is picking her kids up from daycare one day and witnesses something horrible, she acts on instinct and saves the life of a young girl. A few days later, Sarah is contacted by someone who knows what she did. He wants to reward a rare act of selflessness in a very unique way. He gives Sarah and phone and he tells her that she has 72 hours to call the number in the phone and give them a name. Any name. And that person will disappear.
No second chances. Once the decision is made, Sarah can’t change her mind. Sarah can’t imagine herself taking the deal. Until she gets pushed too far. Sarah makes a 29 second phone call, and it sets in motion a series of events that can’t be stopped…
Reflection
The premise of this book gives me chills whenever I think about it. When I first thought about the deal I felt like Sarah did. Sure, there are people I’d prefer to not have to deal with. But making that call would mean I took action that adversely impacted someone else. But as the story unfolds, we see the terrifying events that push Sarah to her limits.
Alan Hawthorne is QUITE a character. As a doctoral student myself, Logan’s portrayal of the university environment really resonated with me. When you are lower in academia—a grad student or a new professor trying to make tenure—the system rarely works for you. Academia allows power and influence to thrive. A bad track record in academia, even when undeserved, blacklists you from the industry.
Alan Hawthorne was flawlessly written. He is the perfect villain—manipulative, seductive, and diabolical enough that I fell into the trap over and over thinking he might have a limit to his behavior. I can’t wait for readers to see the way Hawthorne works—it is terrifying and brilliant!
Sarah is such a wonderful character as well. She has so much complexity to her story. I didn’t share quite a bit about Sarah in my teaser and I think I will hold off, because her life situation is so fascinating. Her family dynamics, her background in her field, and where she is at in her career—these all made Sarah’s character leap right off the page. And as the book unfolds, from her good deed to the phone call to the aftermath, Sarah is full of surprises. She is a delightful character. I’d read a whole series about Sarah if I could!
The ending…it’s quite frankly jaw-dropping!!! The entire book is twisted, fast-paced, and completely diabolical!!! A must-read thriller with a fascinating premise and an even better delivery!!
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for my copy. Opinions are my own.
September 16, 2019
Sarah's life is ruled by her horrible boss. Yet he's untouchable due to a sizable grant and his famous TV show. Driving to get her children from school one day, Sarah rescues a young girl from harm. She does it out of the kindness of her heart, expecting nothing in return. But her act puts a very powerful man in her debt, and he decides that it must be repaid in his own way. He offers Sarah a 72-hour deal: he can make someone disappear with a simple phone call. No traces to her, no repercussions. Sarah's life with her boss is nearly intolerable, but can she really make that call?
"You give me one name. One person. and I will make them disappear. For you."
I went in to this one a little dubious about its premise, and yes, it's wild and crazy and implausible, but it's also one of those fun, addictive reads that you get caught up in and can't put down for hours. It was a whirlwind read, and I totally loved it. The book's story is very timely--Sarah's boss, Dr. Hawthorne is a terrible, despicable character: a poster child for the #metoo movement. Her success and livelihood are tied into sleeping with him. He sexually harasses her, threatens her, and basically does everything awful thing he could do. Your blood will boil when you read this story, and it was honestly stressful at times. Yet the man is untouchable thanks to protective male colleagues and the money he brings in.
"What happened is that it's a business and they've got too much invested in their prime asset to let him go. People like us are just the collateral damage."
Once Sarah is offered her "deal," it seems like the book will go a certain way, but there's nothing predictable about this novel. It's mesmerizing and completely addictive. There are a ton of twists and turns that keep you completely off guard. It's really easy to root for Sarah, as our bad guy stands in stark contrast to her, even if you question a few of her decisions. (And she's awfully lucky to have her father, who sure takes her kids on with no complaints.)
"She saw it now for what it was: a deal with the Devil."
If you're looking for a fun, unpredictable escape, this thriller is for you. It's really an awesome read, and I, for one, loved the ending. 4+ stars.
I received a copy of this novel from St. Martin's Press and Netgalley in return for a honest review.
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"You give me one name. One person. and I will make them disappear. For you."
I went in to this one a little dubious about its premise, and yes, it's wild and crazy and implausible, but it's also one of those fun, addictive reads that you get caught up in and can't put down for hours. It was a whirlwind read, and I totally loved it. The book's story is very timely--Sarah's boss, Dr. Hawthorne is a terrible, despicable character: a poster child for the #metoo movement. Her success and livelihood are tied into sleeping with him. He sexually harasses her, threatens her, and basically does everything awful thing he could do. Your blood will boil when you read this story, and it was honestly stressful at times. Yet the man is untouchable thanks to protective male colleagues and the money he brings in.
"What happened is that it's a business and they've got too much invested in their prime asset to let him go. People like us are just the collateral damage."
Once Sarah is offered her "deal," it seems like the book will go a certain way, but there's nothing predictable about this novel. It's mesmerizing and completely addictive. There are a ton of twists and turns that keep you completely off guard. It's really easy to root for Sarah, as our bad guy stands in stark contrast to her, even if you question a few of her decisions. (And she's awfully lucky to have her father, who sure takes her kids on with no complaints.)
"She saw it now for what it was: a deal with the Devil."
If you're looking for a fun, unpredictable escape, this thriller is for you. It's really an awesome read, and I, for one, loved the ending. 4+ stars.
I received a copy of this novel from St. Martin's Press and Netgalley in return for a honest review.
Blog ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram ~ PaperBackSwap ~ Smashbomb
September 6, 2019
There is always a bit of doubt that an authors follow up book to a brilliant debut will not maintain that brilliance, sometimes it doesn’t..... but in the case of T.M.Logan it does and even slightly betters it
Our main character Sarah ( who I loved more or less instantly ) is bullied by her TV presenter of a boss.....he wants sex in return for his promises of promotion......he is a bully who thrives on his harassment and sexual gratification of his staff, peiple ate scared of him, he makes their lives a misery.....there will never be any change, he has too much power, money and authority......then Sarah witnesses an event and helps avert a tragedy....her ‘reward’ for this from a grateful and very wealthy Russian is she can have one person ‘disappear’ from her life, forever.....she has 72 hours to decide whether to accept this ‘offer’, the call, if she makes it on the mobile phone with 1 number in the memory will only take ‘29 seconds’......and so follows a wonderfully past paced story of decisions,repercussions and nail biting tension ( hard to say much more as would ruin the story if give too much away)
The book does not give up the excitement or twists
and turns....right up until the last sentence and I really enjoyed the ‘will she, wont she?’, ‘has she, hasn’t she’ throughout the whole book
It was also very interesting to put Sarahs choice (s) as a question to yourself, the reader and decide what you would do given the choice (s) she found herself having to make, its great to read her absolute disbelief how her life had changed in an hour!
Great story telling and descriptive writing and wonderful characters....sone who you will love.......and some you will hate, passionately!!!!
This was one of those books that when I wasn’t reading it the last few days ( and nights!! ) It was on my mind and wanted to get back to it to see what had happened
A unique, great concept, genuine edge of your seat page turner that gives thrills and excitement and a really really good read and IMO would make a brilliant film
One of my favourite books this year
5 stars 10/10 really recommended
Our main character Sarah ( who I loved more or less instantly ) is bullied by her TV presenter of a boss.....he wants sex in return for his promises of promotion......he is a bully who thrives on his harassment and sexual gratification of his staff, peiple ate scared of him, he makes their lives a misery.....there will never be any change, he has too much power, money and authority......then Sarah witnesses an event and helps avert a tragedy....her ‘reward’ for this from a grateful and very wealthy Russian is she can have one person ‘disappear’ from her life, forever.....she has 72 hours to decide whether to accept this ‘offer’, the call, if she makes it on the mobile phone with 1 number in the memory will only take ‘29 seconds’......and so follows a wonderfully past paced story of decisions,repercussions and nail biting tension ( hard to say much more as would ruin the story if give too much away)
The book does not give up the excitement or twists
and turns....right up until the last sentence and I really enjoyed the ‘will she, wont she?’, ‘has she, hasn’t she’ throughout the whole book
It was also very interesting to put Sarahs choice (s) as a question to yourself, the reader and decide what you would do given the choice (s) she found herself having to make, its great to read her absolute disbelief how her life had changed in an hour!
Great story telling and descriptive writing and wonderful characters....sone who you will love.......and some you will hate, passionately!!!!
This was one of those books that when I wasn’t reading it the last few days ( and nights!! ) It was on my mind and wanted to get back to it to see what had happened
A unique, great concept, genuine edge of your seat page turner that gives thrills and excitement and a really really good read and IMO would make a brilliant film
One of my favourite books this year
5 stars 10/10 really recommended
December 27, 2017
Give me one name. One person. And I will make them disappear . . .
Sarah is a hard working, dedicated and accomplished academic, but all her hard work will soon be for nothing if she doesn't do something about her situation. Her serial predator of a boss has made it increasingly clear he is all powerful in his position at the university in which he and Sarah both work. He has all the university big wigs in his pocket. His influence is so great that the only way for her to now keep her job or even hope to work at another university, is to provide him with the sexual favours he's been harassing her over for the past two years.
When Sarah rescues a young girl in trouble, she inadvertently puts a powerful and dangerous man in her debt. He lives by his own ruthless code of honour, and according to him, this debt must be repaid.
He offers Sarah a once-off deal that will make her biggest problems disappear. No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out. All it takes is a 29 second phone call to him with a name.
Because everyone has a name to give. Don't they?
For Sarah, that name comes easily enough!
But will she take this powerful man up on his offer?
Sarah's situation is certainly thought provoking and had me pondering - if I were approached with the same proposition, who would that someone be that I'd like to have magically disappear. Everyone has that someone right?
With a clever, original story line and colourful characters, some you root for instantly and others that make your blood boil and skin crawl, this will have you captivated from beginning to end!
It is a true page turner, intense and entertaining all the way with its unexpected surprises and slick twists.
I give it ALL the ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s!!!
I am so looking forward to reading more by T.M. Logan!
Many thanks to Netgalley, Bonnier Zaffre and the author for the opportunity of reading an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. The pleasure was all mine.
Sarah is a hard working, dedicated and accomplished academic, but all her hard work will soon be for nothing if she doesn't do something about her situation. Her serial predator of a boss has made it increasingly clear he is all powerful in his position at the university in which he and Sarah both work. He has all the university big wigs in his pocket. His influence is so great that the only way for her to now keep her job or even hope to work at another university, is to provide him with the sexual favours he's been harassing her over for the past two years.
When Sarah rescues a young girl in trouble, she inadvertently puts a powerful and dangerous man in her debt. He lives by his own ruthless code of honour, and according to him, this debt must be repaid.
He offers Sarah a once-off deal that will make her biggest problems disappear. No consequences. No comeback. No chance of being found out. All it takes is a 29 second phone call to him with a name.
Because everyone has a name to give. Don't they?
For Sarah, that name comes easily enough!
But will she take this powerful man up on his offer?
Sarah's situation is certainly thought provoking and had me pondering - if I were approached with the same proposition, who would that someone be that I'd like to have magically disappear. Everyone has that someone right?
With a clever, original story line and colourful characters, some you root for instantly and others that make your blood boil and skin crawl, this will have you captivated from beginning to end!
It is a true page turner, intense and entertaining all the way with its unexpected surprises and slick twists.
I give it ALL the ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s!!!
I am so looking forward to reading more by T.M. Logan!
Many thanks to Netgalley, Bonnier Zaffre and the author for the opportunity of reading an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. The pleasure was all mine.
November 16, 2018
3.5 stars, rounded up for originality.
I loved TM Logan's Lies when I read it over the summer. It was one of the better reads of 2018, that's for sure. When I saw that TM Logan had released another book (currently only in the UK), I knew that I needed a chance to read this new title. 29 Seconds is refreshingly different than TM Logan's Lies, and the writing is also structured very differently. I'll touch more about that later, but let's talk about the synopsis. It's very, very, very vague, and it needs to be! This story is not one that you want to, or need to, know more about before diving in.
Sarah is a mother of two, estranged from her husband, and a non-permanent professor. She has a misogynist, sexually abusive, department head that preys on women in the workplace. Sarah is feeling hopeless, until someone gives her the chance to change everything. This person can make all of her problems disappear—no evidence; no consequences. Should she do it? After all, it's not only going to help Sarah, but future women in her position.
29 Seconds does not have as many twists and turns as Lies did, and I'm curious to see how readers will react to this book. This story deals with serious, real life issues that affects society as a whole today—toxic masculinity in the workforce. I applaud the author for taking on this theme, especially since he's a cisgender white man. It's always great to see or hear about allies for those who want change and equality. Before I change the topic entirely, this book really is more of a workplace drama, with touches of thriller/suspense anecdotes thrown in. There were moments that I felt the story lagging, but I appreciated it's original content told in a spectacularly well written way. However, 29 Seconds really kept me on the edge of my seat by the final quarter of the book. As with Lies, TM Logan's 29 Secondswill leave you screaming with emotions by the end of it's final chapter.
I loved TM Logan's Lies when I read it over the summer. It was one of the better reads of 2018, that's for sure. When I saw that TM Logan had released another book (currently only in the UK), I knew that I needed a chance to read this new title. 29 Seconds is refreshingly different than TM Logan's Lies, and the writing is also structured very differently. I'll touch more about that later, but let's talk about the synopsis. It's very, very, very vague, and it needs to be! This story is not one that you want to, or need to, know more about before diving in.
Sarah is a mother of two, estranged from her husband, and a non-permanent professor. She has a misogynist, sexually abusive, department head that preys on women in the workplace. Sarah is feeling hopeless, until someone gives her the chance to change everything. This person can make all of her problems disappear—no evidence; no consequences. Should she do it? After all, it's not only going to help Sarah, but future women in her position.
29 Seconds does not have as many twists and turns as Lies did, and I'm curious to see how readers will react to this book. This story deals with serious, real life issues that affects society as a whole today—toxic masculinity in the workforce. I applaud the author for taking on this theme, especially since he's a cisgender white man. It's always great to see or hear about allies for those who want change and equality. Before I change the topic entirely, this book really is more of a workplace drama, with touches of thriller/suspense anecdotes thrown in. There were moments that I felt the story lagging, but I appreciated it's original content told in a spectacularly well written way. However, 29 Seconds really kept me on the edge of my seat by the final quarter of the book. As with Lies, TM Logan's 29 Secondswill leave you screaming with emotions by the end of it's final chapter.
October 22, 2019
WOOF. When was the last time you were on the fence about a book? Because I’m standing on that fence right now!
29 Seconds was one of my most highly anticipated reads for this Fall. And for all intents, I liked it. BUTTTT, I didn’t love it because (eeek) there were parts I just couldn’t with. 🙄
So here’s the deal, for this book to work (like really work) you need to suspend all notions of plausible reality. And I’m not talking fiction-fantasy land, I’m talking there’s just NO WAY anyone would be this chill after getting picked up, thrown into the back of a car, and be like “sure, I trust you” afterwards. Ya know?? 💁🏻♀️ (That wasn’t a spoiler.)
I mean, really? That’s my problem with this book. The cornerstone of common sense is missing from its plot. Sure, is it a badass story about a woman overtaking a douchebag, YES! Am I here for that, sister YASS! But do I want girlfriend to have a backbone and some wits, nodssssss.
As a 32-year-old mother of 2, I would assume Sarah would have a little more street smarts than to continuously invite danger into every facet of her life. In fact, the only time she ever acted with any trepidation was when her boss was being a sexist asshole to her. That's where she should have stood up for herself.
So I dunno. I guess I need plausibility to really advocate for a character. 🤷🏻♀️ It’s gonna be a 3.5 ⭐️ rating from me today. I knew this would be hard. Ugh. Thank you St. Martin's Press for this copy! Sorry for my bummer review 😔
Sooooo... what did you think? I know a lot of you read it? Where you okay with Sarah’s attitude toward everything in the book?
29 Seconds was one of my most highly anticipated reads for this Fall. And for all intents, I liked it. BUTTTT, I didn’t love it because (eeek) there were parts I just couldn’t with. 🙄
So here’s the deal, for this book to work (like really work) you need to suspend all notions of plausible reality. And I’m not talking fiction-fantasy land, I’m talking there’s just NO WAY anyone would be this chill after getting picked up, thrown into the back of a car, and be like “sure, I trust you” afterwards. Ya know?? 💁🏻♀️ (That wasn’t a spoiler.)
I mean, really? That’s my problem with this book. The cornerstone of common sense is missing from its plot. Sure, is it a badass story about a woman overtaking a douchebag, YES! Am I here for that, sister YASS! But do I want girlfriend to have a backbone and some wits, nodssssss.
As a 32-year-old mother of 2, I would assume Sarah would have a little more street smarts than to continuously invite danger into every facet of her life. In fact, the only time she ever acted with any trepidation was when her boss was being a sexist asshole to her. That's where she should have stood up for herself.
So I dunno. I guess I need plausibility to really advocate for a character. 🤷🏻♀️ It’s gonna be a 3.5 ⭐️ rating from me today. I knew this would be hard. Ugh. Thank you St. Martin's Press for this copy! Sorry for my bummer review 😔
Sooooo... what did you think? I know a lot of you read it? Where you okay with Sarah’s attitude toward everything in the book?
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