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The Stork
It’s been five and a half years, and Shelby McDougall is finally on track. Back in Santa Cruz, California, she’s sharing an apartment with her brother, and is in her second year of criminal justice studies. She’s landed her dream job as intern to local PI Kathleen Bennett. And her stone-cold love life is heating up.
Her past is behind her. Almost.
A late-night phone call puts Shelby’s perfectly ordered life into a tailspin. One of the twins she put up for adoption has been kidnapped, snatched from his home in the middle of the night. There are no witnesses.
After meeting the family, Shelby knows something is off. The adoptive parents tell her the children don’t sleep. They eat constantly, and their IQs are off the charts, qualifying them for either Ripley’s Believe It or Not or a sideshow act in the circus.
Against her better judgment, knowing that every cop in the state of California is doing their best to find this boy, Shelby agrees to help. By the time she realizes she’s up against something powerful, something evil, it’s almost too late. As Shelby fights for her life and that of the kidnapped boy, she learns the shocking truth about her babies.
And she also discovers her own truth, a lesson she has to learn over and her best instincts might have unexpected, damaging, consequences.
Her past is behind her. Almost.
A late-night phone call puts Shelby’s perfectly ordered life into a tailspin. One of the twins she put up for adoption has been kidnapped, snatched from his home in the middle of the night. There are no witnesses.
After meeting the family, Shelby knows something is off. The adoptive parents tell her the children don’t sleep. They eat constantly, and their IQs are off the charts, qualifying them for either Ripley’s Believe It or Not or a sideshow act in the circus.
Against her better judgment, knowing that every cop in the state of California is doing their best to find this boy, Shelby agrees to help. By the time she realizes she’s up against something powerful, something evil, it’s almost too late. As Shelby fights for her life and that of the kidnapped boy, she learns the shocking truth about her babies.
And she also discovers her own truth, a lesson she has to learn over and her best instincts might have unexpected, damaging, consequences.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2018
19 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Wood
4 books22 followersNancy Wood writes the Shelby McDougall Santa Cruz County, CA based suspense series, featuring a surrogate mom Shelby McDougall turned private investigator.
Though the books can be read as standalones, if you'd like to read them in order, start with Due Date, where Shelby signs on as a surrogate mom. In The Stork, she's in training to be a PI, and discovers what actually happened to her babies. In the third and final book of the series, The Found Child, Shelby's story comes full circle.
For a glimpse into Shelby's life, check out Treasure Hunt.
Though the books can be read as standalones, if you'd like to read them in order, start with Due Date, where Shelby signs on as a surrogate mom. In The Stork, she's in training to be a PI, and discovers what actually happened to her babies. In the third and final book of the series, The Found Child, Shelby's story comes full circle.
For a glimpse into Shelby's life, check out Treasure Hunt.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 26, 2018
This book was captivating right from the get-go. The heroine has already proven herself to be resourceful, but once again we are treated to a normal every day, stubborn woman who refuses to let bad people get away with badness. Shelby is the kind of woman you want to be, minus the bad things that happen to her. Can't wait for the next book in this series to see what she gets up to next!
July 15, 2018
Enjoy a Satisfying ‘Whew’ When Its All Over
The Stork is a well-crafted mystery with a tense, action-filled finale. The story starts fast, with a middle-of-the-night, hysterical call for help. A child has been kidnapped. But not just any child – one that Shelby McDougall, the series heroine, gave birth to as a surrogate mother (in Book 1 of the series). The pace then moderates. Minor details like the sequence of California roads taken between point A and point B get perhaps too much coverage, but the discoveries sprinkled throughout the midsection will hold your interest. Then, things heat up again for the finale, allowing the reader a satisfying ‘whew’ when it’s all over.
There are a couple of factors a potential reader should know in advance. First, although part of a series, this book is standalone. However, if you read this one first, you may have little motivation to return to book 1 (Due Date). That’s because there are fairly extensive flashbacks in this book and you end up knowing the characters, the plot, and even the outcome of book 1 (beyond the obvious that the heroine of the series survives). So, I’ll make the highly surprising and completely radical suggestion that you start at the beginning…or plan on reading only this one.
Second, if you are a fan of hard-boiled, procedurally detailed crime mysteries, you may not get your fill. Shelby is a PI-in-training, and so, some of her extremely ill-advised choices of what to investigate and what to let slide and what to tell colleagues and what to omit are frustrating. But they are also undoubtedly by design; I expect that Shelby will mature with the series. But some are also a bit too convenient – why isn’t anyone looking at the children’s miraculous capabilities as a way to solve the crime? And there are a few errors, like expecting an outdoor motion detector to be activated by throwing a stick in front of it. But overall, these are minor.
I particularly enjoyed the author’s imaginative turns of a phrase, often related to a character’s emotions. Where many authors might write the first five words of this sentence to show surprise, Wood’s take is: “My jaw dropped in surprise and I snapped it shut, feeling like it’d been opened and closed by some external force. As if I were the dummy and the universe was the ventriloquist.” It would be easy to get carried away with this kind of ‘cuteness’, but to her credit, Wood doesn’t.
Overall, The Stork is a well-crafted book that starts strong, sprinkles a few discoveries in the middle to keep you hooked, then ends with a bang. And while tense in places, it’s cozy feel makes for a comfortable, summer-afternoon read.
The Stork is a well-crafted mystery with a tense, action-filled finale. The story starts fast, with a middle-of-the-night, hysterical call for help. A child has been kidnapped. But not just any child – one that Shelby McDougall, the series heroine, gave birth to as a surrogate mother (in Book 1 of the series). The pace then moderates. Minor details like the sequence of California roads taken between point A and point B get perhaps too much coverage, but the discoveries sprinkled throughout the midsection will hold your interest. Then, things heat up again for the finale, allowing the reader a satisfying ‘whew’ when it’s all over.
There are a couple of factors a potential reader should know in advance. First, although part of a series, this book is standalone. However, if you read this one first, you may have little motivation to return to book 1 (Due Date). That’s because there are fairly extensive flashbacks in this book and you end up knowing the characters, the plot, and even the outcome of book 1 (beyond the obvious that the heroine of the series survives). So, I’ll make the highly surprising and completely radical suggestion that you start at the beginning…or plan on reading only this one.
Second, if you are a fan of hard-boiled, procedurally detailed crime mysteries, you may not get your fill. Shelby is a PI-in-training, and so, some of her extremely ill-advised choices of what to investigate and what to let slide and what to tell colleagues and what to omit are frustrating. But they are also undoubtedly by design; I expect that Shelby will mature with the series. But some are also a bit too convenient – why isn’t anyone looking at the children’s miraculous capabilities as a way to solve the crime? And there are a few errors, like expecting an outdoor motion detector to be activated by throwing a stick in front of it. But overall, these are minor.
I particularly enjoyed the author’s imaginative turns of a phrase, often related to a character’s emotions. Where many authors might write the first five words of this sentence to show surprise, Wood’s take is: “My jaw dropped in surprise and I snapped it shut, feeling like it’d been opened and closed by some external force. As if I were the dummy and the universe was the ventriloquist.” It would be easy to get carried away with this kind of ‘cuteness’, but to her credit, Wood doesn’t.
Overall, The Stork is a well-crafted book that starts strong, sprinkles a few discoveries in the middle to keep you hooked, then ends with a bang. And while tense in places, it’s cozy feel makes for a comfortable, summer-afternoon read.
June 14, 2018
The Stork starts off like a horse out of the starting gate with a call in the middle of the night about a child being kidnapped. The action never lets up from there—and that’s a good thing.
This book is a continuation of a story that apparently started—and appeared to finish—five years before. I didn’t read that book, but it wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy this one and be able to follow what was going on and how it connected to past events. The author gives enough of the backstory to make this one understandable, and she does so by spreading it out rather than dumping it all at once. It sounded to me as if that first story was complete in itself, as is this one, yet at the end of this one, it was obvious that a sequel could be done. If it never is, it wouldn’t affect this story, but the possibility is there. The author says at the end that it is her intention to do a third book, and I hope that’s the case.
The main characters in The Stork are well drawn with a lot of depth to them, there are some great descriptive scenes, and the action is exciting. The book isn’t character-driven or plot-driven but rather a successful combination of the two. Set in California with a female PI as the main character, I was immediately reminded of Sue Grafton’s novels. I’ve read a lot of hers, and I think this one was just as good.
I had some complaint with some really stupid things a couple of the characters did that didn’t seem like what a person would actually do in the situation. Since those things happen toward the end of the book, I won’t mention them here to avoid spoiling the conclusion for the reader. I was able to overlook the things after reminding myself that people actually DO stupid things in real life (I’ve done a few myself). Another complaint I had was the cover. I hope that’s only a temporary one!
All in all, The Stork is well worth the read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes a thrilling story with strong, but flawed, characters.
This book is a continuation of a story that apparently started—and appeared to finish—five years before. I didn’t read that book, but it wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy this one and be able to follow what was going on and how it connected to past events. The author gives enough of the backstory to make this one understandable, and she does so by spreading it out rather than dumping it all at once. It sounded to me as if that first story was complete in itself, as is this one, yet at the end of this one, it was obvious that a sequel could be done. If it never is, it wouldn’t affect this story, but the possibility is there. The author says at the end that it is her intention to do a third book, and I hope that’s the case.
The main characters in The Stork are well drawn with a lot of depth to them, there are some great descriptive scenes, and the action is exciting. The book isn’t character-driven or plot-driven but rather a successful combination of the two. Set in California with a female PI as the main character, I was immediately reminded of Sue Grafton’s novels. I’ve read a lot of hers, and I think this one was just as good.
I had some complaint with some really stupid things a couple of the characters did that didn’t seem like what a person would actually do in the situation. Since those things happen toward the end of the book, I won’t mention them here to avoid spoiling the conclusion for the reader. I was able to overlook the things after reminding myself that people actually DO stupid things in real life (I’ve done a few myself). Another complaint I had was the cover. I hope that’s only a temporary one!
All in all, The Stork is well worth the read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who likes a thrilling story with strong, but flawed, characters.
September 24, 2020
Don’t even think about reading The Stork, book 2 in Nancy Wood’s McDougall mysteries, without reading Due Date. The first book is a gem, the second a sapphire.
The Stork opens up more than five years after Shelby became an unwitting victim of a baby-brokering ring in Northern California. She gave birth to twins Justin and Justine, whom she put up for adoption. (Both children are off the chart geniuses making Einstein look mentally deficient.)
Shelby is studying to become a private investigator working for Kathleen Bennett, PI.
Shelby now has a love interest, Sheriff’s Deputy Cody Wilson. The woman whose life she saved in Due Date, Megan, has grown to become Shelby’s best friend. And Shelby’s now divorced brother, has become Megan’s new boyfriend. So things have changed, but not entirely.
Shelby get’s a late night call from Ryan and Lisa Boyd, the twins’ adoptive parents. Justin has been kidnapped and the police haven’t yet discovered his whereabouts. Would Shelby help?
Sure she will, and does that get her in trouble. Shelby goes out for a run and is assaulted by a truck. Megan is kidnapped and almost killed. Slowly, Shelby puts the pieces together and decides that the baby-brokering ring has a leader still at large continuing his or her nasty business that Shelby calls “The Stork.”
Nancy Wood writes her novels with clear description that readers feel as if they are there watching the exciting events unfold. Her characters feel real with each one having a unique voice. Finally, her plot is constantly unfolding, albeit at times a bit slow, with a mind boggling climax that will keep readers thinking long after they have closed the book.
The Stork opens up more than five years after Shelby became an unwitting victim of a baby-brokering ring in Northern California. She gave birth to twins Justin and Justine, whom she put up for adoption. (Both children are off the chart geniuses making Einstein look mentally deficient.)
Shelby is studying to become a private investigator working for Kathleen Bennett, PI.
Shelby now has a love interest, Sheriff’s Deputy Cody Wilson. The woman whose life she saved in Due Date, Megan, has grown to become Shelby’s best friend. And Shelby’s now divorced brother, has become Megan’s new boyfriend. So things have changed, but not entirely.
Shelby get’s a late night call from Ryan and Lisa Boyd, the twins’ adoptive parents. Justin has been kidnapped and the police haven’t yet discovered his whereabouts. Would Shelby help?
Sure she will, and does that get her in trouble. Shelby goes out for a run and is assaulted by a truck. Megan is kidnapped and almost killed. Slowly, Shelby puts the pieces together and decides that the baby-brokering ring has a leader still at large continuing his or her nasty business that Shelby calls “The Stork.”
Nancy Wood writes her novels with clear description that readers feel as if they are there watching the exciting events unfold. Her characters feel real with each one having a unique voice. Finally, her plot is constantly unfolding, albeit at times a bit slow, with a mind boggling climax that will keep readers thinking long after they have closed the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2018
A Life Forever Altered
The Stork continues Shelby’s story, only it’s now five years later. Everything is beginning to come together with her education and career until her brother arranges an interview with the local newspaper. Because of this exposure, her life is forever altered by an emergency phone call received in the middle of the night. She had no idea that the phone call would take her back in time, to when she had delivered her twins and gave them up for adoption. All of her fantasies about her lost children would be reshaped as a new reality takes over. The author does a great job of keeping the pace moving, while still allowing the growth of the main character. As the story progresses, the danger increases, until it all culminates in an epic ending. I really enjoyed all of the elements of suspense in this story.
The Stork continues Shelby’s story, only it’s now five years later. Everything is beginning to come together with her education and career until her brother arranges an interview with the local newspaper. Because of this exposure, her life is forever altered by an emergency phone call received in the middle of the night. She had no idea that the phone call would take her back in time, to when she had delivered her twins and gave them up for adoption. All of her fantasies about her lost children would be reshaped as a new reality takes over. The author does a great job of keeping the pace moving, while still allowing the growth of the main character. As the story progresses, the danger increases, until it all culminates in an epic ending. I really enjoyed all of the elements of suspense in this story.
October 7, 2018
The Good
What a fantastic gripping start to this book. I loved it and Day 1 was brilliant!
The Bad
The Start and the end of the book were fantastic. I loved the cabin, Erik, the Stork finding out about everything. Day 2 however, was my least favorite in the book as after a brilliant start I felt that it belly flopped into backstory. (Sorry!)
The Ugly
What a great story. The twins the kidnap. Loved it. But I have to say the cover for this book doesn't do this book justice. I really think it needs a revamp!
4.3 Stars
What a fantastic gripping start to this book. I loved it and Day 1 was brilliant!
The Bad
The Start and the end of the book were fantastic. I loved the cabin, Erik, the Stork finding out about everything. Day 2 however, was my least favorite in the book as after a brilliant start I felt that it belly flopped into backstory. (Sorry!)
The Ugly
What a great story. The twins the kidnap. Loved it. But I have to say the cover for this book doesn't do this book justice. I really think it needs a revamp!
4.3 Stars
August 27, 2018
This book starts right off with a bang! A baby is kidnapped, and the plot thickens from there! It keeps unfolding with great twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
The characters are really well developed, and I found myself flipping through the pages as I followed Sheby on her investigation. Not only are the characters amazingly real, but the plot is also a tight weave of action and suspense.
I loved everything about this book, and look forward to reading more in this series!
The characters are really well developed, and I found myself flipping through the pages as I followed Sheby on her investigation. Not only are the characters amazingly real, but the plot is also a tight weave of action and suspense.
I loved everything about this book, and look forward to reading more in this series!
October 22, 2018
Good mystery
Good read! Great characters, great mystery, and a bit or romance. Who can ask for more? I liked the way this story was a touch different, not your everyday mystery. The only reason I took away a star was I felt that it had a bit too much filler and fluff in between plot turns. Nothing that would keep me from reading it, however. If you're in the mood to lose yourself for a while to a good mystery, this book is for you.
Good read! Great characters, great mystery, and a bit or romance. Who can ask for more? I liked the way this story was a touch different, not your everyday mystery. The only reason I took away a star was I felt that it had a bit too much filler and fluff in between plot turns. Nothing that would keep me from reading it, however. If you're in the mood to lose yourself for a while to a good mystery, this book is for you.
April 29, 2020
Nancy Wood's second book in this trilogy captivated me from the first chapter. I shouted at Shelby McDougall several times while I read this book - she seems to make such dangerous decisions - but I guess that's why I found the book such a page-turner.
The final test of the book: After reading one or two chapters a night before bed, when I got about three quarters of the way I binge read the rest. Now I can't wait for Nancy's third and final episode of this fascinating mystery to appear.
The final test of the book: After reading one or two chapters a night before bed, when I got about three quarters of the way I binge read the rest. Now I can't wait for Nancy's third and final episode of this fascinating mystery to appear.
June 27, 2018
I was very impressed with the author's writing style. The book freely flowed through detailed imagery that made the reader feel a part of the action and scene. A great mystery thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed.
December 27, 2019
In this sequel to "Due Date," Nancy Wood once again combines great, page-turning suspense with vibrant characters and intriguing social issues. I can't wait for the next in the series.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews