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The Runaway
The search for a teenage runaway sends her foster mother, a psychologist working for the LAPD, on a dangerous journey through Los Angeles’ criminal underworld, in this gripping new thriller by the author of the international bestseller Baby Doll.
You’ll do anything to protect her.
But you’ll have to find her first.
When LAPD forensic psychologist Becca Ortiz agrees to foster teenage runaway Ash, she knows she will love and protect her as her own daughter.
Ash may have turned her back on her old life on the streets, but there is still one person who she can’t bear to lose. Now he is about to drag her back into a dark world where nothing and no one is safe.
How far will Becca go to save her daughter?
And can she find her before it’s too late?
For more from Hollie Overton, check out these books:
Baby Doll
The Walls
You’ll do anything to protect her.
But you’ll have to find her first.
When LAPD forensic psychologist Becca Ortiz agrees to foster teenage runaway Ash, she knows she will love and protect her as her own daughter.
Ash may have turned her back on her old life on the streets, but there is still one person who she can’t bear to lose. Now he is about to drag her back into a dark world where nothing and no one is safe.
How far will Becca go to save her daughter?
And can she find her before it’s too late?
For more from Hollie Overton, check out these books:
Baby Doll
The Walls
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2019
53 people are currently reading
1632 people want to read
About the author
Hollie Overton
4 books560 followersHollie Overton is a TV writer and producer. She has written for Shadowhunters, Cold Case, and The Client List, Hollie's debut thriller, BABY DOLL is an international bestseller and was published in eleven countries. Her 2nd novel, THE WALLS will be released Aug. 2017. An identical twin, Hollie grew up in Kingsville, Texas but now resides in LA with her husband and rescue dog Stevie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
June 18, 2019
3.5 stars
An intriguing thriller that tries to do too much!
Becca Ortiz, a forensic psychologist who works for the LAPD, has been a foster mother to 16-year-old Ash for two years. They have been through many ups and downs, including Ash’s battle with drug addiction. Ash finally seems to have her life back on track, but when she disappears without a trace, Becca will do whatever it takes to bring her daughter home even if it means breaking the law.
Even though Ash is happy living with Becca, she isn’t ready to fully give up her former life on the streets. When she starts dating Nate, who is homeless, she gets pulled into a cult who refer to themselves as “The Tribe.” Run by enigmatic Mo, the Tribe, whose mantra is to live as a family and embrace a “home free” lifestyle, is a dangerous yet intriguing group.
The narrative is split between Ash and Becca’s narratives, with a couple of others mixed in from time to time. Ash’s chapters had YA feel, which I guess was appropriate given her age. Becca has some demons, which are slowly revealed in her chapters. Mo was the most interesting character and I wanted to hear more from her. I wish I had the opportunity to get deeper inside her crazy head. I also would have liked to see more of The Tribe.
The Runaway is a fast-paced, easy read. Similar to Overton’s other novels, I feel like she was trying to cram in commentary on too many social issues into one book. In this case, she tries to integrate homelessness, mental illness, child abuse, the foster care system, the court system, and the police’s lack of training in dealing with mental health issues. As a result, much of what she is trying to shed light on felt glossed over. There were also parts of Ash’s and Becca’s stories that were not fully developed. However, Ash and Becca are likable characters and I enjoyed their relationship. This was a good read for the entertainment value and I found the final pages satisfying.
I won a copy of this book in a GR giveaway!
An intriguing thriller that tries to do too much!
Becca Ortiz, a forensic psychologist who works for the LAPD, has been a foster mother to 16-year-old Ash for two years. They have been through many ups and downs, including Ash’s battle with drug addiction. Ash finally seems to have her life back on track, but when she disappears without a trace, Becca will do whatever it takes to bring her daughter home even if it means breaking the law.
Even though Ash is happy living with Becca, she isn’t ready to fully give up her former life on the streets. When she starts dating Nate, who is homeless, she gets pulled into a cult who refer to themselves as “The Tribe.” Run by enigmatic Mo, the Tribe, whose mantra is to live as a family and embrace a “home free” lifestyle, is a dangerous yet intriguing group.
The narrative is split between Ash and Becca’s narratives, with a couple of others mixed in from time to time. Ash’s chapters had YA feel, which I guess was appropriate given her age. Becca has some demons, which are slowly revealed in her chapters. Mo was the most interesting character and I wanted to hear more from her. I wish I had the opportunity to get deeper inside her crazy head. I also would have liked to see more of The Tribe.
The Runaway is a fast-paced, easy read. Similar to Overton’s other novels, I feel like she was trying to cram in commentary on too many social issues into one book. In this case, she tries to integrate homelessness, mental illness, child abuse, the foster care system, the court system, and the police’s lack of training in dealing with mental health issues. As a result, much of what she is trying to shed light on felt glossed over. There were also parts of Ash’s and Becca’s stories that were not fully developed. However, Ash and Becca are likable characters and I enjoyed their relationship. This was a good read for the entertainment value and I found the final pages satisfying.
I won a copy of this book in a GR giveaway!
September 18, 2021
Becca Ortiz is an LAPD forensic psychologist and mum to a once-troubled teen. She might not have birthed her and she might only be considered her foster parent to others but she views Ash as nothing less than a daughter and loves her with her nothing less than her whole heart. She spent two years getting Ash clean and providing her with the warm and loving environment that every child deserves. When Becca awakes one morning and Ash is not in her bed the police fail to share her urgency in finding her. They see a case of another runaway foster teen and are not prepared to use many resources in finding her. Becca knows Ash and trusts her implicitly. She will stop at nothing in returning her daughter home where she belongs and no-one, not even the law, will get in her way.
This was such a fast-paced and thrilling read. The multitude of perspectives enhanced this and I appreciated the insights to different walks of life that it provided. There was so many different subjects covered inside these pages - from mental health to homelessness and everything in between - and they all revolved around Ash's disappearance.
Much of the story was set on the streets of Skid Row, where numberless homeless individuals attempted to survive with cardboard box homes and small change handouts. It was a tough existence and the fictional characters who dwelled there have many real-world equivalents, which only made this even more of a harrowing read.
I found this novel to provide a particularly scathing insight to the failure of the American justice system. It showed the bias towards different ethnicities and backgrounds and how wealth, backgrounds, skin colour, and status were often defining factors in the treatment of and resources granted to individuals. I thought Overton did an applaudable job of allowing her readers to understand the different levels of privilege that these characters were afforded and how it impacted the entirety of their lives.
This was such a fast-paced and thrilling read. The multitude of perspectives enhanced this and I appreciated the insights to different walks of life that it provided. There was so many different subjects covered inside these pages - from mental health to homelessness and everything in between - and they all revolved around Ash's disappearance.
Much of the story was set on the streets of Skid Row, where numberless homeless individuals attempted to survive with cardboard box homes and small change handouts. It was a tough existence and the fictional characters who dwelled there have many real-world equivalents, which only made this even more of a harrowing read.
I found this novel to provide a particularly scathing insight to the failure of the American justice system. It showed the bias towards different ethnicities and backgrounds and how wealth, backgrounds, skin colour, and status were often defining factors in the treatment of and resources granted to individuals. I thought Overton did an applaudable job of allowing her readers to understand the different levels of privilege that these characters were afforded and how it impacted the entirety of their lives.
February 24, 2020
The Runway by Hollie Overton is the 3rd book I've read by this author and they get better with each one.
It's thrilling, heart pounding and definitely keeps you on the edge, I even shed a tear at the end.
I must admit I would of liked Mo (evil piece of work ☠️) to have a different ending.
It has everything you need for a fast easy read your definitely not going to be able to put it down so yes I definitely recommend this 📖
It's thrilling, heart pounding and definitely keeps you on the edge, I even shed a tear at the end.
I must admit I would of liked Mo (evil piece of work ☠️) to have a different ending.
It has everything you need for a fast easy read your definitely not going to be able to put it down so yes I definitely recommend this 📖
July 18, 2019
So, I really didn’t love this.
I really liked her other book, so it kind of bums me to say this. But this one is just kind of…meh.
I will say that I liked the very dangerous world the author took us to. The problem was that I never really bought into any of the characters. And Holy Backstory, Batman! Every time something interesting would happen, we’d suddenly get about 2 ½ pages of interior monologue about a character’s history. It started driving me nuts. I didn’t care about character A’s first date with her husband. (Yes, he’s a character. No, he’s not really an important one.) I didn’t care about character B’s party with the pedophile (because it had nothing to do with anything).
I think the main problem is that I know from experience that she can write. I know that she can write engaging prose that really makes me care about her characters.
Look, it isn’t terrible. I finished it. I just hoped for so much more.
*ARC provided via Net Galley
I really liked her other book, so it kind of bums me to say this. But this one is just kind of…meh.
I will say that I liked the very dangerous world the author took us to. The problem was that I never really bought into any of the characters. And Holy Backstory, Batman! Every time something interesting would happen, we’d suddenly get about 2 ½ pages of interior monologue about a character’s history. It started driving me nuts. I didn’t care about character A’s first date with her husband. (Yes, he’s a character. No, he’s not really an important one.) I didn’t care about character B’s party with the pedophile (because it had nothing to do with anything).
I think the main problem is that I know from experience that she can write. I know that she can write engaging prose that really makes me care about her characters.
Look, it isn’t terrible. I finished it. I just hoped for so much more.
*ARC provided via Net Galley
June 22, 2019
Hollie Overton is a very talented and creative author. This is the first of her works I have had the pleasure of reading. I received this book as a result of a giveaway on Goodreads. The story follows the struggles of a loving foster mother (Becca) who is a psychologist for the LAPD and her foster daughter, Ash. For some unknown reason, Ash has runaway and Becca is desperate to find her before tragedy strikes in the rough and tumble world of LA's homeless population. Why did she run? Was Ash taken against her will? Is she using drugs again? Why isn't she answering her phone? The story is told from the perspective of multiple characters. Ms Overton does a wonderful job of flushing out the main players in the story and adds many unexpected twists and turns. She definitely kept me guessing to the very last page. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a true mystery lover. Ms Overton has a new fan in me.
April 8, 2022
This was a good book based on what someone’s life could really look like. It had twist and turns I wasn’t expecting. I enjoyed this book.
July 25, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Hollie Overton and Redhook books for the free e-book in exchange for an honest review.
LAPD forensic psychologist Becca agrees to foster teenage runaway Ash, she knows that she will love and protect her as if she was her own. Ash may have turned away from her old life in the streets, but there is still one person that she can’t stand to lose. He is about to drag her back into her old world and no one is safe. How far will Becca go to save her daughter?
I loved how different the story line was to this novel and how different Becca and Ash were from one another and from the usual characters I experience. I really enjoyed the entire story and how one woman took it upon herself to try and “save” these other runaways. This story is entirely engrossing and you don’t want to put it down because you need to know what is going to happen to Ash and the Tribe. This book also made me so sad because it is totally true that it would be easy to make children trust you and so easy for someone to destroy their lives. Becca broke my heart in this novel many times; how much she went through and how much she loves her daughter was just perfect. This novel is the perfect mix of thrilling and heart wrenching!
Out August 6th
LAPD forensic psychologist Becca agrees to foster teenage runaway Ash, she knows that she will love and protect her as if she was her own. Ash may have turned away from her old life in the streets, but there is still one person that she can’t stand to lose. He is about to drag her back into her old world and no one is safe. How far will Becca go to save her daughter?
I loved how different the story line was to this novel and how different Becca and Ash were from one another and from the usual characters I experience. I really enjoyed the entire story and how one woman took it upon herself to try and “save” these other runaways. This story is entirely engrossing and you don’t want to put it down because you need to know what is going to happen to Ash and the Tribe. This book also made me so sad because it is totally true that it would be easy to make children trust you and so easy for someone to destroy their lives. Becca broke my heart in this novel many times; how much she went through and how much she loves her daughter was just perfect. This novel is the perfect mix of thrilling and heart wrenching!
Out August 6th
October 30, 2020
Some parts of this were a little far fetched but I really enjoyed it. A story about a criminal psychologist who fosters a young teenager. The whole tribal gang thing was a bit unrealistic but loved the way Overton described Mo the narcissist cult leader and the way she manipulated vulnerable people which I felt was a little more believable. There were parts of the story could have been expanded on. For example her brother and his death was briefly touched on but there was no real basis for their relationship within the story for me to feel empathy. Otherwise, it was a novel that kept me interested.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2019
The runaway
Wow what an amazing book
I literally held my breath at some points of this book. It literally had me on the edge of my seat throughout it
This book covers topics such as homelessness, substance abuse, grooming, child abuse but at no point did I feel uncomfortable reading it and the author did all of the topics such justice.
I loved Becca and was rooting for her all the way through the novel.
This book will stay with me for a while. Without a doubt a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read
Thank you for the advanced copy
Wow what an amazing book
I literally held my breath at some points of this book. It literally had me on the edge of my seat throughout it
This book covers topics such as homelessness, substance abuse, grooming, child abuse but at no point did I feel uncomfortable reading it and the author did all of the topics such justice.
I loved Becca and was rooting for her all the way through the novel.
This book will stay with me for a while. Without a doubt a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read
Thank you for the advanced copy
January 5, 2020
So creepy! I love everything Overton writes.
October 18, 2019
Becca Ortiz, Los Angeles Police Department psychologist, is fostering teenage runaway Ash. But Ash can't bring herself to trust a cop, not after what she's been through. Her boyfriend Nate introduces her to the Tribe, his street-smart crew of delinquents and runaways, and Ash finally feels like she's found a home among the homeless. So one night, she disappears. As Becca frantically searches for her missing foster daughter, Ash finds herself entangled in the shadows of a criminal underworld, beginning to realise that there may be no way to leave the Tribe without paying a deadly price.
What a thriller and a half this is! I absolutely loved it from the very beginning and my enjoyment only grew the more I read. I was so hooked by this that I did sit and devour it in one rainy afternoon. Always a sign of a great read.
So why so good? Well the characters are phenomenal, I instantly felt connected to them and liked them all as well. Overton's characters are very realistic, so they are likeable but also flawed, this only made them feel more human and I could really envisage them in the world. As a result of liking them I was completely invested in what was happening to them and rooting for them the whole way through. By the end, these characters felt like my friends and I loved getting to follow them on this exhilarating journey.
The other, main aspect that made this so great is the outstanding plot. 'The Runaway' features a very hard-hitting subject so at times this is a dark read, but it always remains an intense, sensational thriller. I could not stop reading this and was desperate to keep turning pages to find out the next twist in the tale. The plot took my breath away and I adored reading every single word.
Overton achieves something magical with this read, and that is the balance between action and emotion. This is a fast-paced exciting read, but also one that is about a family so of course we have emotion and human thoughts and feelings at the heart of the read. As I said, Overton strikes the balance perfectly and only enhances the action and emotion. I have to mention the ending as well, what an incredible ending, again one brimming with emotion and one that is incredibly perfect for the plot. I loved it.
'The Runaway' is one of the best thrillers I have read in a while. Brimming with high-octane, powerful action and offset perfectly with real, human emotion. This is a thriller you have to read.
What a thriller and a half this is! I absolutely loved it from the very beginning and my enjoyment only grew the more I read. I was so hooked by this that I did sit and devour it in one rainy afternoon. Always a sign of a great read.
So why so good? Well the characters are phenomenal, I instantly felt connected to them and liked them all as well. Overton's characters are very realistic, so they are likeable but also flawed, this only made them feel more human and I could really envisage them in the world. As a result of liking them I was completely invested in what was happening to them and rooting for them the whole way through. By the end, these characters felt like my friends and I loved getting to follow them on this exhilarating journey.
The other, main aspect that made this so great is the outstanding plot. 'The Runaway' features a very hard-hitting subject so at times this is a dark read, but it always remains an intense, sensational thriller. I could not stop reading this and was desperate to keep turning pages to find out the next twist in the tale. The plot took my breath away and I adored reading every single word.
Overton achieves something magical with this read, and that is the balance between action and emotion. This is a fast-paced exciting read, but also one that is about a family so of course we have emotion and human thoughts and feelings at the heart of the read. As I said, Overton strikes the balance perfectly and only enhances the action and emotion. I have to mention the ending as well, what an incredible ending, again one brimming with emotion and one that is incredibly perfect for the plot. I loved it.
'The Runaway' is one of the best thrillers I have read in a while. Brimming with high-octane, powerful action and offset perfectly with real, human emotion. This is a thriller you have to read.
September 1, 2020
WARNINGS: Cult, abuse.
This may not be the author's strongest book (that honour goes to second novel The Walls), but it's a solid story from an author who's found her feet.
Fostering children - especially older ones - can be challenging, but as a psychologist working with the LAPD, Becca's up to the task.
It's hard watching Ash struggle. She has a good heart, but the downside of it - sacrificing herself for others - endangers her.
I'd previously not known much about Skid Row life, so the novel is good insight into the various communities there, and how they operate within themselves and with other groups - including the police. Author Hollie Overton is compassionate in her portrayal of Skid Row's residents, showing their complexity.
I didn't expect the cult plot, and watching the leader prey on the most vulnerable people in society while claiming to love them and be one of them...it hurts to read. I might like the THEORY of learning about cults, but reading the psychological manipulation and devastation in a close narrative (rather than the non-fiction I've read by journalists, who weren't cult members themselves) is intimate and kind of intrusive. The futility of being a reader, mentally shouting at characters...it's not a fun read. Crime fiction may be my escapism, but sometimes you get attached and it's too close for comfort.
I read a lot of politics in the news. I've seen how people love to complain about human faeces on LA streets, but they don't mention their personal efforts to physically clean up the mess. And that's kind of how society in general tends to behave about "unpleasantness" - love to "expose" it, but aren't willing to put in the effort themselves to improve the situation. Instead, it's used for political point-scoring and agendas - mostly in a negative way, rather than constructive. What exactly would your candidate (who's not the incumbent) do to improve the situation? How would you approach people - to punish, or rehabilitate? If people are unable to pull up their bootstraps - if they don't have straps or boots to begin with - will you harm them, abandon them, or lift them? Do you help or harm? (And neglect often fits into the harm category.)
The novel raises big questions, and answers may not be found. But it challenges society at large to face issues they'd rather ignore.
This may not be the author's strongest book (that honour goes to second novel The Walls), but it's a solid story from an author who's found her feet.
Fostering children - especially older ones - can be challenging, but as a psychologist working with the LAPD, Becca's up to the task.
It's hard watching Ash struggle. She has a good heart, but the downside of it - sacrificing herself for others - endangers her.
I'd previously not known much about Skid Row life, so the novel is good insight into the various communities there, and how they operate within themselves and with other groups - including the police. Author Hollie Overton is compassionate in her portrayal of Skid Row's residents, showing their complexity.
I didn't expect the cult plot, and watching the leader prey on the most vulnerable people in society while claiming to love them and be one of them...it hurts to read. I might like the THEORY of learning about cults, but reading the psychological manipulation and devastation in a close narrative (rather than the non-fiction I've read by journalists, who weren't cult members themselves) is intimate and kind of intrusive. The futility of being a reader, mentally shouting at characters...it's not a fun read. Crime fiction may be my escapism, but sometimes you get attached and it's too close for comfort.
I read a lot of politics in the news. I've seen how people love to complain about human faeces on LA streets, but they don't mention their personal efforts to physically clean up the mess. And that's kind of how society in general tends to behave about "unpleasantness" - love to "expose" it, but aren't willing to put in the effort themselves to improve the situation. Instead, it's used for political point-scoring and agendas - mostly in a negative way, rather than constructive. What exactly would your candidate (who's not the incumbent) do to improve the situation? How would you approach people - to punish, or rehabilitate? If people are unable to pull up their bootstraps - if they don't have straps or boots to begin with - will you harm them, abandon them, or lift them? Do you help or harm? (And neglect often fits into the harm category.)
The novel raises big questions, and answers may not be found. But it challenges society at large to face issues they'd rather ignore.
February 23, 2020
“The Runaway” is the story of a mother and child. Becca Ortiz is works for LAPD as a forensic psychologist. She is divorced and awaiting permission to adopt former runaway, previously homeless, and now foster teenager Ash. The story is about their complicated, sometimes traumatic, and yet always warm relationship. Overton creates a picture of a loving family yet one with fissures in its structure. Readers see the drama, tension, and rifts from both sides, from Becca as she struggles to make with a stable, loving, and safe environment for Ash, and from Ash as she struggles in a changing world with changing people and uncertainty at every turn.
The characters are complex and relatable with well-developed backstories included in the narrative. The story touches on the complex social problems of foster care, homelessness, and mental illness, with undercurrents of sadness, fear, and love.
The action is fast-paced, and the descriptions are realistic, frightening, and truthful. The emotions, and the push-and-pull of the relationships drive the plot, and questions pull readers through the story. Will they all make it? What will the future hold? This story keeps readers guessing right to the last page.
I listened to the audio version of “The Runaway” read by Christine Lakin, Cassandra Morris, and Erin Bennett. The narration was accurate, understandable, and brought the story and characters to life.
The characters are complex and relatable with well-developed backstories included in the narrative. The story touches on the complex social problems of foster care, homelessness, and mental illness, with undercurrents of sadness, fear, and love.
The action is fast-paced, and the descriptions are realistic, frightening, and truthful. The emotions, and the push-and-pull of the relationships drive the plot, and questions pull readers through the story. Will they all make it? What will the future hold? This story keeps readers guessing right to the last page.
I listened to the audio version of “The Runaway” read by Christine Lakin, Cassandra Morris, and Erin Bennett. The narration was accurate, understandable, and brought the story and characters to life.
September 4, 2019
Hollie Overton has done it again! Another tale that just begs to be finished. Ash may have won the foster parent jackpot, but giving up her life on the streets doesn't come without struggles. Can Becca truly trust the happiness she has finally found? What happens when all that happiness is challenged? Hollie weaves a tale that has you diving headfirst in to a book that you just can't put down. The book deals with so many current issues tied up in an LA mystery. I highly suggest you find a weekend with nothing to do but immerse yourself in this story!
August 14, 2019
I didn't like this book and let me tell you why..I had such high hopes when I saw this book because from what I saw of reviews of this authors previous books they were good so I was excited, intrigued, anxious even. maybe I set the bar too high because I didn't get and to be honest I could not finish the book. There was too many characters that really had nothing to do with the storyline, so what was the point. We had too much inner dialogue that had me shaking my head and honestly just bored. And just too much stuff, I wont give it a 2 because I mean it wasn't that bad, but it was def not higher and as I mentioned I just couldn't finish.
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
July 21, 2021
This may not be my absolute favourite book from this author, but it is still a read I thoroughly enjoyed and struggled to put down!
Alternating between both Ash' and Becca's POV, and a few added extras, I really got a feel for the all-round story, making me sympathetic for both main characters, as well as a few others. I would gladly read more books surrounding Becca and Ash's story!
Focusing on some heavy topics, I truly commend Overton on how raw, fascinating and real these topics were delivered. I not only was taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, but I found myself utterly intrigued and desperate to find out what was gonna happen next.
I would of liked a different ending in regards to Mo, and perhaps Nate, but this is still a book I would highly recommend. I look forward to Hollie Overton's next!
Alternating between both Ash' and Becca's POV, and a few added extras, I really got a feel for the all-round story, making me sympathetic for both main characters, as well as a few others. I would gladly read more books surrounding Becca and Ash's story!
Focusing on some heavy topics, I truly commend Overton on how raw, fascinating and real these topics were delivered. I not only was taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, but I found myself utterly intrigued and desperate to find out what was gonna happen next.
I would of liked a different ending in regards to Mo, and perhaps Nate, but this is still a book I would highly recommend. I look forward to Hollie Overton's next!
March 6, 2020
Round up to 4.5 stars.
June 13, 2019
I did not like this book. The characters and their actions did not remotely seem real to me. Perhaps too many years working in a courthoue has slanted my views; I cannot. speak to that. I appreciate the author's time in writing but this book is not for me.
July 22, 2019
Book 56 this year-
The Runaway by Hollie Overton could be called a domestic thriller I guess.
It is told most between the POV of Becca Ortiz who is a psychologist who works with LAPD and her 16 year old foster daughter Ash.
When we first meet Ash she is getting a tattoo to match her boyfriend, Nick- a young boy she met when she was living on the street. Nick still is homeless and lives with a group that has formed a “ family” called “The Tribe”. This group of mostly teens is led by a woman known to them only as Mo and the kids are devoted to her despite her harsh judgement calls at times.
Ash sneaks out one night to see Nick and sees something she should not have which causes her and Nick to go on the run.
Becca’s character is completely unbelievable to me - she has no insight on how terrible she is to her own mother, she has inner demons she has never dealt with and her actions would have gotten her fired from any security job- much less LAPD.
There is quite a bit of dwelling on social issues such as mental health issues, homelessness and teen runaways.
The author has a tendency to veer off into backstory or commentary when action in the story picks up which can be a little distracting.
This is an entertaining light summer read. The very ending when Ash and Becca appear in family court is very touching and may have caused eye leakage. I would like a follow up book about Mo and her future.
3 solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Runaway by Hollie Overton could be called a domestic thriller I guess.
It is told most between the POV of Becca Ortiz who is a psychologist who works with LAPD and her 16 year old foster daughter Ash.
When we first meet Ash she is getting a tattoo to match her boyfriend, Nick- a young boy she met when she was living on the street. Nick still is homeless and lives with a group that has formed a “ family” called “The Tribe”. This group of mostly teens is led by a woman known to them only as Mo and the kids are devoted to her despite her harsh judgement calls at times.
Ash sneaks out one night to see Nick and sees something she should not have which causes her and Nick to go on the run.
Becca’s character is completely unbelievable to me - she has no insight on how terrible she is to her own mother, she has inner demons she has never dealt with and her actions would have gotten her fired from any security job- much less LAPD.
There is quite a bit of dwelling on social issues such as mental health issues, homelessness and teen runaways.
The author has a tendency to veer off into backstory or commentary when action in the story picks up which can be a little distracting.
This is an entertaining light summer read. The very ending when Ash and Becca appear in family court is very touching and may have caused eye leakage. I would like a follow up book about Mo and her future.
3 solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 22, 2019
Heartbreaking and heart warming story that gives you a reason to hope. Well-written characters that really make you feel the emotions they are going through and make you rally behind those who deserve it and hope in your heart that karma gets those that deserve the bad kind.
August 11, 2019
The Runaway is captivating from start to end. It grips you with suspense and intrigue as well as tears at the heart strings. I dare you not to get invested in these complex characters. It is a must read! Not to be missed.
October 7, 2019
Ugh. The writing is absolutely atrocious. The main character doesn’t seem to have any common sense at all. The homeless zombie kids are less than one dimensional. Can’t recommend this, unless you are marooned on a desert island.
September 19, 2019
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Runaway by Hollie Overton in exchange for an honest review.
This novel begins with Ash getting a tattoo from a group of homeless people called The Tribe. Ash is in love with Nate, a member of the makeshift family that calls themselves The Tribe. Once a runaway, Ash is being fostered by Becca a therapist with the LAPD. Ash is still not quite sure if Becca’s love for her, as she is torn by her love for Nate and being with him. Becca has a complicated past herself, having lost several babies by miscarriage, a divorce from the love of her life Christian, and the death of her brother Robbie. She has a fractured relationship with her mother. Sometimes, Becca has a tough time keeping a grip on reality. As Ash and Nate become more involved, Ash witnesses a beating by a member of The Tribe on another member, Eli. When Ash is turned away, the tribe feels that they need to take care of Ash in a menacing manner. From here on, Ash realizes that Mo, the leader of The Tribe is dangerous.
The book is mainly about Becca’s race to find Ash after she and Nate ran away, and to take Mo into custody. Becca makes some very poor decisions, which causes her friends to question her ability to be rational.
I thought the book was a little long, and also had some very unlikely situations. However it does deal with a lot of issues, namely mental health, homelessness, and trouble with fertility, which are all important issues. I thought much of this was a bit far-fetched. For example, I don’t know If a doctor trained in mental health, would take as many chances as she did. I was also a little frustrated by the ending, but I do feel that it was pretty realistic that Mo still had a following.
#TheRunaway #HollieOverton
This novel begins with Ash getting a tattoo from a group of homeless people called The Tribe. Ash is in love with Nate, a member of the makeshift family that calls themselves The Tribe. Once a runaway, Ash is being fostered by Becca a therapist with the LAPD. Ash is still not quite sure if Becca’s love for her, as she is torn by her love for Nate and being with him. Becca has a complicated past herself, having lost several babies by miscarriage, a divorce from the love of her life Christian, and the death of her brother Robbie. She has a fractured relationship with her mother. Sometimes, Becca has a tough time keeping a grip on reality. As Ash and Nate become more involved, Ash witnesses a beating by a member of The Tribe on another member, Eli. When Ash is turned away, the tribe feels that they need to take care of Ash in a menacing manner. From here on, Ash realizes that Mo, the leader of The Tribe is dangerous.
The book is mainly about Becca’s race to find Ash after she and Nate ran away, and to take Mo into custody. Becca makes some very poor decisions, which causes her friends to question her ability to be rational.
I thought the book was a little long, and also had some very unlikely situations. However it does deal with a lot of issues, namely mental health, homelessness, and trouble with fertility, which are all important issues. I thought much of this was a bit far-fetched. For example, I don’t know If a doctor trained in mental health, would take as many chances as she did. I was also a little frustrated by the ending, but I do feel that it was pretty realistic that Mo still had a following.
#TheRunaway #HollieOverton
December 31, 2023
So I did actually quite enjoy this one; I loved the character of Ash and the storyline itself isn't terrible. It focuses on a lot of different themes like homelessness, addiction, mental health, police response to mental health and more. I liked seeing these different themes, and how it all linked up together. It was split between 3 perspectives: Ash, Becca and Mo, which meant it wasn't too many views to switch between, and each character's part is completely different because of their distinctly different characters.
I think that because there are so many themes in this book, it never really focuses on one, meaning that each one is explored, but only very briefly, and it often feels like everything happens too quickly, and it just keeps moving, moving, moving without getting any time for me to process what's just happened. I would have also liked to learn more about Mo's past and backstory, and just more of her character in general, because her role is quite realistic, even if some parts of the novel aren't. I also wanted to read more from Ash's point of view, as I loved her character, but we don't get to read that much from her side of the story.
Overall, yes I did read this in one sitting, however there was too much going on for me to fully appreciate the story or the way its written. Some of the characters I think also need more development, and more interactions between them, especially between Ash and the Tribe.
I think that because there are so many themes in this book, it never really focuses on one, meaning that each one is explored, but only very briefly, and it often feels like everything happens too quickly, and it just keeps moving, moving, moving without getting any time for me to process what's just happened. I would have also liked to learn more about Mo's past and backstory, and just more of her character in general, because her role is quite realistic, even if some parts of the novel aren't. I also wanted to read more from Ash's point of view, as I loved her character, but we don't get to read that much from her side of the story.
Overall, yes I did read this in one sitting, however there was too much going on for me to fully appreciate the story or the way its written. Some of the characters I think also need more development, and more interactions between them, especially between Ash and the Tribe.
July 29, 2019
This was a story of a foster mom going all out to save her daughter. Combined with that was a lot of baggage for most of the characters. It was a bit overwhelming. Despite that, the characters in the present seemed a bit one dimensional: Becca, the mom, would do anything to save Ash. Ash, the daughter, would do anything to be with Nate. Nate, the homeless boyfriend, would do anything for Ash or for his family, The Tribe, etc. Maybe there were too many characters that were trying to be prominent and since we needed all their back stories, we didn't have time to be with them in the present? Or maybe they just were so locked up in that past that they didn't have anything to offer us in the present? Neither makes for an outstanding read. I spent most of the book distracted by things that didn't make sense or by actions that seemed a bit unbelievable. This push to make the story that much more action packed and thrilling and suspenseful pushed it beyond my threshold to accept that things can miraculously go someone's way in fiction. The ending did give me a good hand wringing chuckle but it was not enough to overcome my lack of engagement with the rest of the story. If you don't need to look too deeply at the mechanics of a story, this would be a good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Redhook Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Redhook Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
August 13, 2019
I went to the book signing for the Runaway last week and to be completely honest after the book signing I was not expecting much from this book. But when I got into reading it, it became one of those books that I could not put down.
I really enjoyed reading about the characters back stories, which where explored throughout the story in each of the characters. While reading I could tell the time and thought that had to be put into each and every characters life story.
Another aspect that I liked about this story is Becca’s dedication towards finding and protecting Ash. You can tell that Becca really does care and love Ash no matter what Ash does, or could ever do.
I will say the nicknames/name abbreviations did get a bit irritating after a while. Every character was shortened. For example Becs is short for and Becca is short for Rebecca. Ash short for Ashley, Mo short for Maureen, and the list continues.
There was a point in the story where a character mentions a BOLO in a Conversationthen the next sentence said “BOLO means be on the look out.” I think this could have been better blended into the story. Maybe buy putting (Be on the look out) after using the word BOLO. For some odd reason this really bugged me.
Over all I really enjoyed The Runway and would recommend it!
November 19, 2019
Having read and enjoyed Baby Doll, I thought I would also like this book.
Sadly, I didn’t really enjoy it that much.
The story focuses on Ash, a teenage girl who has had a difficult start in life. She meets Becca, who fosters her. As many teenagers are, Ash is quite difficult and there are many ups and downs. This results in Becca’s husband having an affair and the breakdown of their marriage some years before. Ash is doing well until she meets Nate and is led astray.
I found the story plodded along and was quite predictable. I never felt particularly gripped or wanted to read ‘just one more chapter’. I wasn’t really that bothered about most of the characters, I think I liked the dog the most! Becca came across as a martyr, trying to do what she thought was the right thing and ignoring the consequences of her actions. Somehow, everyone still thinks she’s great.
It was all a bit neatly tied up and had a pretty happy ending which I don’t think is that realistic.
This book just wasn’t for me. However, I see the author has another book out which I may try.
Sadly, I didn’t really enjoy it that much.
The story focuses on Ash, a teenage girl who has had a difficult start in life. She meets Becca, who fosters her. As many teenagers are, Ash is quite difficult and there are many ups and downs. This results in Becca’s husband having an affair and the breakdown of their marriage some years before. Ash is doing well until she meets Nate and is led astray.
I found the story plodded along and was quite predictable. I never felt particularly gripped or wanted to read ‘just one more chapter’. I wasn’t really that bothered about most of the characters, I think I liked the dog the most! Becca came across as a martyr, trying to do what she thought was the right thing and ignoring the consequences of her actions. Somehow, everyone still thinks she’s great.
It was all a bit neatly tied up and had a pretty happy ending which I don’t think is that realistic.
This book just wasn’t for me. However, I see the author has another book out which I may try.
April 3, 2020
This is the first book I have read by Hollie Overton. The book itself follows a mother’s story about her fight to get back her daughter who had ‘runaway’. Becca is a psychlologist who works for the LAPD and is relentless in her fight to get her daughter back to her safetly. Ash is her foster daughter, who had a very rough upbringing and she finds it tough to trust people.
After 2 years with Becca, it looks like Ash’s life is finally back on track yet one night she goes missing without a trace and Becca makes it her mission to bring her back.
This story is full of lots of tough realities, from troubled beginings to drug use and murder this book seems to have it all.
Throughout the book the main POV is from Becca herself but we also get to hear from Ash and Mo, leader of the Tribe.
I also loved that it was a floppy book! Small factor I know. There was a lot going on, so much so you could have fit it into two books with finding out more about each character.
Whilst Mo was twisted for sure, I think she could have her own book, she seems facinating and I wonder what could come next.
September 16, 2019
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was very intrigued by the description of this book even though I'd never heard of the author so I took a gamble when I requested it and I was not disappointed.
I found this story of police psychologist, Becca Ortiz, and her foster daughter, Ash, compelling as they get pulled into the twisted web of Mo, a mother figure to a group of runaways in LA's skid row. I was quickly pulled into the story and following an engaging group of core characters. There's not too much that I can say without giving away some of the plot twists along the way. As with most fiction, I felt like some of the things Becca did in her determination to rescue Ash was a little far-fetched but it wasn't too hard to let that go and just let myself go for the ride.
I may have not heard of Hollie Overton before this book but I am I very interested in reading some of her other works.
I found this story of police psychologist, Becca Ortiz, and her foster daughter, Ash, compelling as they get pulled into the twisted web of Mo, a mother figure to a group of runaways in LA's skid row. I was quickly pulled into the story and following an engaging group of core characters. There's not too much that I can say without giving away some of the plot twists along the way. As with most fiction, I felt like some of the things Becca did in her determination to rescue Ash was a little far-fetched but it wasn't too hard to let that go and just let myself go for the ride.
I may have not heard of Hollie Overton before this book but I am I very interested in reading some of her other works.
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