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Winnetka Road #1
Winnetka Road #1
Paul and Cellina Farrell have it wealth, good looks, a beautiful baby girl and a mansion on Winnetka Road. In their world, money, power, and appearance are everything, so when Paul goes slowly insane, no one notices—except the baby nurse. But can she convince anyone of Paul’s insanity before he murders her and hurts the baby?
It’s the Swinging Sixties, and Paul and Cellina Farrell are the “it” couple on Chicago’s North Shore. He’s handsome, rich, and a partner at a prestigious law firm. She’s beautiful, brilliant, and leads the crowd in all things fashion, interior design and elegance. They live in a mansion on Winnetka Road with their baby girl, Simone. Their life seems picture-perfect.
But there is something dark and unnatural stirring beneath Paul’s smooth exterior.
Cellina doesn’t notice. She’s too busy with house renovations and trips to Paris, Palm Beach and Percocet.
Their friends don’t notice. They’re too blinded by the Farrell good looks, money, and standing in society.
But the baby nurse sees.
And little Simone.
Façades are beginning to crack at the big house on Winnetka Road.
***
The Winnetka Road Series is a psychological/domestic thriller with supernatural elements. Book 1 of the Winnetka Road Series ends with a partial resolution as well as a cliffhanger. Book 6 is the final book of the series.
It’s the Swinging Sixties, and Paul and Cellina Farrell are the “it” couple on Chicago’s North Shore. He’s handsome, rich, and a partner at a prestigious law firm. She’s beautiful, brilliant, and leads the crowd in all things fashion, interior design and elegance. They live in a mansion on Winnetka Road with their baby girl, Simone. Their life seems picture-perfect.
But there is something dark and unnatural stirring beneath Paul’s smooth exterior.
Cellina doesn’t notice. She’s too busy with house renovations and trips to Paris, Palm Beach and Percocet.
Their friends don’t notice. They’re too blinded by the Farrell good looks, money, and standing in society.
But the baby nurse sees.
And little Simone.
Façades are beginning to crack at the big house on Winnetka Road.
***
The Winnetka Road Series is a psychological/domestic thriller with supernatural elements. Book 1 of the Winnetka Road Series ends with a partial resolution as well as a cliffhanger. Book 6 is the final book of the series.
165 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 2, 2018
458 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 1, 2022
Oh, this sets my teeth on edge.
I will say that I wasn't prepared to be as invested in this book as I ended up. I thought it would be pretty run-of-the-mill, and on top of that I've never really read domestic thriller before, so I wasn't sure if I liked the genre.
I'm still not sure if I like the genre, but Winnetka Road was definitely written well. The main draw for me was Simone and Claire. I love child characters in adult novels, especially when they're written to actually be children and not just miniature adults. In this novel, they were the one bright spot in an otherwise dysfunctional (and boring) world. The way they need to work through things, and the way their worlds intersect despite very different backgrounds, adds a lot to the story.
I also liked how the first chapter almost sets you up to like Paul, even though you know that's going to change. It's a really good way of creating a backstory that makes you want to read more despite knowing this isn't the character you should be supporting. Had this been a different kind of story, Paul would have been the main character to root for. As it was, this setup is interesting because it leaves you with a lot of questions even if you know what's going on. (If this paragraph was hard to follow, it's only because I can't really say more without major spoilers.)
I wouldn't say there were any useless POVs in this book, but not in the same way as I judge that for most of the books I've read. You know as the reader that you aren't supposed to like (or even root for) Paul or Cellina, and that's what makes their perspectives interesting. They are easy to predict, except against the backdrop of other characters' POVs.
In spite of myself, I really want to continue this series.
I will say that I wasn't prepared to be as invested in this book as I ended up. I thought it would be pretty run-of-the-mill, and on top of that I've never really read domestic thriller before, so I wasn't sure if I liked the genre.
I'm still not sure if I like the genre, but Winnetka Road was definitely written well. The main draw for me was Simone and Claire. I love child characters in adult novels, especially when they're written to actually be children and not just miniature adults. In this novel, they were the one bright spot in an otherwise dysfunctional (and boring) world. The way they need to work through things, and the way their worlds intersect despite very different backgrounds, adds a lot to the story.
I also liked how the first chapter almost sets you up to like Paul, even though you know that's going to change. It's a really good way of creating a backstory that makes you want to read more despite knowing this isn't the character you should be supporting. Had this been a different kind of story, Paul would have been the main character to root for. As it was, this setup is interesting because it leaves you with a lot of questions even if you know what's going on. (If this paragraph was hard to follow, it's only because I can't really say more without major spoilers.)
I wouldn't say there were any useless POVs in this book, but not in the same way as I judge that for most of the books I've read. You know as the reader that you aren't supposed to like (or even root for) Paul or Cellina, and that's what makes their perspectives interesting. They are easy to predict, except against the backdrop of other characters' POVs.
In spite of myself, I really want to continue this series.
March 4, 2023
Not my cup.of tea!
I couldn't remember which genre this book fell under, so read it thinking it would become clear soon into the work. Nothing came to mind however. The story wasn't what I would call a tale. I must have bought it because of the title, Winnetka Road. ( I lived in Winnetka for several years). Don't waste your money on this series!
I couldn't remember which genre this book fell under, so read it thinking it would become clear soon into the work. Nothing came to mind however. The story wasn't what I would call a tale. I must have bought it because of the title, Winnetka Road. ( I lived in Winnetka for several years). Don't waste your money on this series!
August 4, 2023
Not what I hoped for
Rather slow moving with with an inevitable ending. I was disappointed there was not more depth to the book but with the existing characters I suppose that was not possible. Not worth moving on to the second and third book.
Rather slow moving with with an inevitable ending. I was disappointed there was not more depth to the book but with the existing characters I suppose that was not possible. Not worth moving on to the second and third book.
January 17, 2021
I do not like books that force you into another book.
Do not like books that we like serials. I don’t like being teased and coerced to buy more books. Not a good look
Do not like books that we like serials. I don’t like being teased and coerced to buy more books. Not a good look
January 1, 2022
Very disturbing
I did not like some parts of this story. The rest was good. I was troubled by the terrible effect on Paul of his father's drunken rages when he was a child; their extreme poverty, living in a basement, with neighbours feeding him.
His success at school and university seemed highly unlikely given the circumstances, but he possibly won bursaries. Mentally he was scarred for life.
I found his society wife's addiction to vallium and pain killers, and her total lack of maternal instincts to be very disturbing, although common. How she did not die of an overdose, I cannot fathom.
Their little daughter's total security was in Linda, who was paid to take care of her.
Hints of abuse and auras and paranormal encounters completely disturbed me. I did not appreciate them at all.
This book is a cliffhanger, going to a second novel, which, in my opinion can only get much worse.
I did not like some parts of this story. The rest was good. I was troubled by the terrible effect on Paul of his father's drunken rages when he was a child; their extreme poverty, living in a basement, with neighbours feeding him.
His success at school and university seemed highly unlikely given the circumstances, but he possibly won bursaries. Mentally he was scarred for life.
I found his society wife's addiction to vallium and pain killers, and her total lack of maternal instincts to be very disturbing, although common. How she did not die of an overdose, I cannot fathom.
Their little daughter's total security was in Linda, who was paid to take care of her.
Hints of abuse and auras and paranormal encounters completely disturbed me. I did not appreciate them at all.
This book is a cliffhanger, going to a second novel, which, in my opinion can only get much worse.
January 14, 2021
J.S. Sheridan portrayed the down side of the rich and famous in this very well written book. The dialogue is smooth and the narrative well written. What is lacking is what most soap operas lack: a plot.
I must admit I found myself caught up in the snippets of his, hers, their life before realizing the story didn't have a destination. Because the story is well written, I'm convinced all four books must be read to find the plot, but--a reader truly wants to be satisfied when reaching "the end" of each book as well as intrigued to read the next book. I didn't feel satisfied.
I would definitely read a different book by J.S. Sheridan, just won't get caught up in the soap opera effect to finish this series.
I must admit I found myself caught up in the snippets of his, hers, their life before realizing the story didn't have a destination. Because the story is well written, I'm convinced all four books must be read to find the plot, but--a reader truly wants to be satisfied when reaching "the end" of each book as well as intrigued to read the next book. I didn't feel satisfied.
I would definitely read a different book by J.S. Sheridan, just won't get caught up in the soap opera effect to finish this series.
July 12, 2021
Winnetka Road Book 1 is all about the goings-on in the elite of Chicago in the 1950’s and beyond. These people are the upper crust but inside there are lots of insecurities and fears.
Some drink way too much and others pop pills. Of course you can always do both. I enjoyed the references to the brands that were popular back then. The main character has climbed up from a horrific childhood to be a lawyer at a prestigious firm but he is insecure about staying there.
I found the story entertaining, while waiting for something horrible to happen to them all. At the end it turns very dark. This is not for the faint of heart, but it still a gripping tale.
Some drink way too much and others pop pills. Of course you can always do both. I enjoyed the references to the brands that were popular back then. The main character has climbed up from a horrific childhood to be a lawyer at a prestigious firm but he is insecure about staying there.
I found the story entertaining, while waiting for something horrible to happen to them all. At the end it turns very dark. This is not for the faint of heart, but it still a gripping tale.
July 29, 2018
The Desperate Man
Paul Farrell was a desperate man he came from the wrong side of the tracks and was lucky and married well but he still wasn't happy he recognized a woman from his hometown his daughter's babysitter and was scared she would tell on him he made her life miserable and planned to get rid of her.
Paul Farrell was a desperate man he came from the wrong side of the tracks and was lucky and married well but he still wasn't happy he recognized a woman from his hometown his daughter's babysitter and was scared she would tell on him he made her life miserable and planned to get rid of her.
November 14, 2018
WOW... I am ready for book 2! There is just enough crazy in every caracter to keep the suspense going. I realy need to know what will happen to Claire and Simone. Will their destiny eventually intertwine? And will Cellina clean up her act and be a mother to Simone... lots of cliffhangers to be unravelled in book 2... I hope!
July 21, 2018
W*O*W
This book was awesome. I read it in 2 hours. I felt sorry for the children. The nanny was more of a mom then her mom was! Paul was plain crazy!!! Cellina popped too many pills!!! Great read!!!
This book was awesome. I read it in 2 hours. I felt sorry for the children. The nanny was more of a mom then her mom was! Paul was plain crazy!!! Cellina popped too many pills!!! Great read!!!
August 6, 2018
Good Mystery
This book hooked me early and held my attention throughout. Liked the way the characters were developed and enjoyed the somewhat supernatural gifts that were brought into the story. Already got book 2.
This book hooked me early and held my attention throughout. Liked the way the characters were developed and enjoyed the somewhat supernatural gifts that were brought into the story. Already got book 2.
August 18, 2018
Creepy and good
All I can say is I'm ready to read book 2. The book kept me interested in the characters. Celina is a real nutcase, the kids are kinda creepy and Paul is definitely a character to watch. Ok, going to download book 2.
All I can say is I'm ready to read book 2. The book kept me interested in the characters. Celina is a real nutcase, the kids are kinda creepy and Paul is definitely a character to watch. Ok, going to download book 2.
December 8, 2019
Good story
The characters in this book were really jacked up. The paranormal thread running through kept it interesting. The ending was a little disappointing. I hated seeing Linda getting killed. Can't wait to read the next book.
The characters in this book were really jacked up. The paranormal thread running through kept it interesting. The ending was a little disappointing. I hated seeing Linda getting killed. Can't wait to read the next book.
January 9, 2023
I liked this! Can’t decided whether to read the second book because sometimes we need to be satisfied with such endings.
Beautiful Paul and his beautiful family? Idyllic lifestyle except it isn’t really. Who is Paul?
Yeah. That’s my review. It’s late.
Beautiful Paul and his beautiful family? Idyllic lifestyle except it isn’t really. Who is Paul?
Yeah. That’s my review. It’s late.
July 25, 2018
This book was odd. I don't know if it was meant to be funny or what. The characters were all over the place. I saw no point in bringing Claire into the story.
March 25, 2019
This is a story about two girls from two different families and the problems in their lives. Thank goodness for the love and care of a wonderful nanny.
January 4, 2021
Intriguing
Slow start but it improves. Will be reading the next book in the series to find out about the safety of the girls.
Slow start but it improves. Will be reading the next book in the series to find out about the safety of the girls.
January 13, 2021
Wow
Good story with unusual characters and undercurrents. If you like the unexpected you're going to enjoy this book.. Looking forward to the next one
Good story with unusual characters and undercurrents. If you like the unexpected you're going to enjoy this book.. Looking forward to the next one
November 23, 2021
Winnetka Road
Great read. Full of intrigue, twists and turns. Really enjoyed reading from beginning to end. I'll look for more from this author.
Great read. Full of intrigue, twists and turns. Really enjoyed reading from beginning to end. I'll look for more from this author.
January 16, 2022
Mucky
Deep, dark, twisted. One man’s abusive home life ruins his own ability to be happy. He carries the darkness and hate with him.
Deep, dark, twisted. One man’s abusive home life ruins his own ability to be happy. He carries the darkness and hate with him.
December 30, 2022
Well done
Few books raise my anxiety level, this one did. Very well written and engaging to the reader. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Few books raise my anxiety level, this one did. Very well written and engaging to the reader. I look forward to the next book in the series.
January 2, 2026
This was supposed to be a psychological thriller. It was NOT and it was stupid! It’s a 3 book series…I finished book 1 and that’s it for me! Don’t bother!
July 23, 2018
Well if I were to awards to the author for making the two main characters completely unlikeable it would certainly go to J S Sheridan.
Paul and Cellina are two of the most obnoxious selfish and self seeking people I would ever
want to encounter. They seem to spend their days in total self idolization and I really
feel sorry for their child Simone.
Cellina is so caught up in pills and booze it is amazing she can stand and Paul is dealing with
a very ugly past that threatens to take over his sanity. These are not nice people and worse is
there are children involved. The story is an interesting one but I could not get past the ugliness
of the main people; it may have been just me but was a rather depressing book.
Paul and Cellina are two of the most obnoxious selfish and self seeking people I would ever
want to encounter. They seem to spend their days in total self idolization and I really
feel sorry for their child Simone.
Cellina is so caught up in pills and booze it is amazing she can stand and Paul is dealing with
a very ugly past that threatens to take over his sanity. These are not nice people and worse is
there are children involved. The story is an interesting one but I could not get past the ugliness
of the main people; it may have been just me but was a rather depressing book.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews