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The Rumour
When single mum Joanna hears a rumour at the school gates, she never intends to pass it on. But one casual comment leads to another and now there’s no going back . . .
Rumour has it that a notorious child killer is living under a new identity, in their sleepy little town of Flinstead-on-Sea.
Sally McGowan was just ten years old when she stabbed little Robbie Harris to death forty-eight years ago – no photos of her exist since her release as a young woman.
So who is the supposedly reformed killer who now lives among them? How dangerous can one rumour become? And how far will Joanna go to protect her loved ones from harm, when she realizes what it is she’s unleashed?
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2018
2474 people are currently reading
21424 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Kara
6 books861 followersLesley Kara is the Sunday Times Top 10 author of psychological thrillers. Her first book, THE RUMOUR, was the highest selling print crime fiction debut of 2019, has sold in over 18 countries and is soon to be a major TV series on Channel 5! Subsequent books are: WHO DID YOU TELL, THE DARE, THE APARTMENT UPSTAIRS, and THE OTHER TENANT.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,930 reviews
March 13, 2019
This book exhausted me.
It took me six days to finish this book.
SIX DAYS I say.
This is the longest 263 pages I have ever read in my life. You would think that with all of the skimming I did that it would have lessened the load but inexplicably it did not.
The first 70% is excruciatingly tedious with painfully unnecessary fillers, so many characters with no development (thankfully) that I challenge anyone to keep them straight.
The MC is so tiresome and never missed an opportunity to let you know that the father of her son is black.
Despite the fact that the story is rife with red herrings, I easily deciphered all three twists in this story well before their reveal.
I'm giving this one 2 ⭐ although I feel like that may be too generous.
I received an ARC from Random House Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
It took me six days to finish this book.
SIX DAYS I say.
This is the longest 263 pages I have ever read in my life. You would think that with all of the skimming I did that it would have lessened the load but inexplicably it did not.
The first 70% is excruciatingly tedious with painfully unnecessary fillers, so many characters with no development (thankfully) that I challenge anyone to keep them straight.
The MC is so tiresome and never missed an opportunity to let you know that the father of her son is black.
Despite the fact that the story is rife with red herrings, I easily deciphered all three twists in this story well before their reveal.
I'm giving this one 2 ⭐ although I feel like that may be too generous.
I received an ARC from Random House Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2018
An engaging thriller, I found The Rumour to be unputdownable. It sees single mum Jo trying to fit in with the women in her new town, where she has moved to be closer to her mum after her son was being bullied at his school in London. In trying to be liked, more for her sons sake than her own, she passes on a rumour she has heard, that a famous child killer has been living in the area, and unwittingly releases a chain of events that sees Jo eventually fighting for everything she holds dear.
Though I did figure a great deal of the twist of this one in the first third of the book I didn't have it all worked out, so I found myself racing through the novel to see how it all came together. A good read for lovers of psychological fiction.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Though I did figure a great deal of the twist of this one in the first third of the book I didn't have it all worked out, so I found myself racing through the novel to see how it all came together. A good read for lovers of psychological fiction.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2019
Gossipy school moms in a small seaside setting, YES PLEASE!
I have wanted to read this debut for awhile now. I read several blog reviews that piqued my interest and I just LOVE the cover! That counts, right?
I was able to fall into the writing and story right away and immediately had to find out if the rumor was true! I don't like gossiping, BUT if it involves a murderer living in my neighborhood, then I think I'd be all ears . This one made me think further about consequences of gossip later....
I changed my mind about the WHO the accused was several times while reading and was enjoying all the different angles presented.
The ending was perhaps a bit over done, but not entirely inconceivable, so I was fine with it. I was also racing to the end to see just how this little mystery gate concluded.
My copy was from my local library and would recommend to fans of mystery thrillers that enjoy a bit of gossipy school mom chatter, babysitting/book club ladies, and some mama drama!
I have wanted to read this debut for awhile now. I read several blog reviews that piqued my interest and I just LOVE the cover! That counts, right?
I was able to fall into the writing and story right away and immediately had to find out if the rumor was true! I don't like gossiping, BUT if it involves a murderer living in my neighborhood, then I think I'd be all ears . This one made me think further about consequences of gossip later....
I changed my mind about the WHO the accused was several times while reading and was enjoying all the different angles presented.
The ending was perhaps a bit over done, but not entirely inconceivable, so I was fine with it. I was also racing to the end to see just how this little mystery gate concluded.
My copy was from my local library and would recommend to fans of mystery thrillers that enjoy a bit of gossipy school mom chatter, babysitting/book club ladies, and some mama drama!
March 5, 2019
Well plotted, perfectly written, gripping, captivating, amazing debut book with unforeseeable end.
I enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the upcoming thrillers of this writer.
I enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the upcoming thrillers of this writer.
December 8, 2018
Lesley Kara's debut novel is an intense, well written and beautifully plotted psychological thriller, set in the small seaside town of Flinstead. Single mother, Joanna Critchley has recently located here with her son, Alfie, the victim of bullying in London. Her mother lives in town, and Joanna is working as an estate agent, hoping the Alfie will settle here without problems. In her efforts to integrate in the community, Joanna does what anyone might do to become accepted in a group, engage in gossip and tittle tattle, the life blood of small towns, irrespective of whether its true. She has heard a rumour, that a child killer with a new identity lives in Flinstead. With little awareness of the consequences, Joanna breathes life into this rumour by sharing it, after which it takes on a life force of its own as it spreads like wildfire, taking no prisoners as the fingers of suspicion are pointed here, there and everywhere, regardless of innocence.
In 1969, 10 year old Sally McGowan killed 5 year old Robbie Harris. She was imprisoned and served her time, to eventually be released into the community with a new identity. The infamous Sally McGowan is now living in Flinstead, and she is far from happy at the prospect of her identity being revealed. Joanna is faced with the insecurities and dilemmas of being a parent, the need to protect Alfie, anxious, worried and paranoid at the dangers that swirl around her. There are a host of potential suspects out there, people with their own secrets, battered by the repercussions of the rumour, given extra fuel through social media. Lesley Kara outlines with expertise the power of rumours, the damage they can wreak on people, particularly in small towns where they are impossible to escape.
In a fast paced story with short chapters, there are plenty of twists, red herrings, and high levels of suspense and tension. This is fascinating reading, dark, atmospheric, with Kara skilfully capturing the nature and anatomy of living in a small town. A novel with plenty of intrigue and the completely unexpected whilst touching on a number of important issues such as crime, punishment and what constitutes justice. Oh and beware of spreading gossip and rumours! Many thanks to Random House Transworld for an ARC.
In 1969, 10 year old Sally McGowan killed 5 year old Robbie Harris. She was imprisoned and served her time, to eventually be released into the community with a new identity. The infamous Sally McGowan is now living in Flinstead, and she is far from happy at the prospect of her identity being revealed. Joanna is faced with the insecurities and dilemmas of being a parent, the need to protect Alfie, anxious, worried and paranoid at the dangers that swirl around her. There are a host of potential suspects out there, people with their own secrets, battered by the repercussions of the rumour, given extra fuel through social media. Lesley Kara outlines with expertise the power of rumours, the damage they can wreak on people, particularly in small towns where they are impossible to escape.
In a fast paced story with short chapters, there are plenty of twists, red herrings, and high levels of suspense and tension. This is fascinating reading, dark, atmospheric, with Kara skilfully capturing the nature and anatomy of living in a small town. A novel with plenty of intrigue and the completely unexpected whilst touching on a number of important issues such as crime, punishment and what constitutes justice. Oh and beware of spreading gossip and rumours! Many thanks to Random House Transworld for an ARC.
June 12, 2019
So much harm can be done by rumors, as we learn when Joanna moves back to her hometown so she and her six year old son can have a new start. Little Alfie had been bullied at his old school in the city and now Joanna and Alfie are living near her mom, where Joanna can work fewer hours and devote more time to helping Alfie adjust to his new school life. Joanna needs to adjust to, realizing she won't fit in the the mothers of Alfie's schoolmates unless she spends more time socializing with them but she has started out on the wrong foot, rushing away from the school after dropping Alfie off and avoiding contact with the mothers, when possible. To break the ice, Joanna mentions a rumor she heard about a child murderer living anonymously, in their little town. The rumor grows, with Joanna's name attached to the rumor, as the one who started it, and we get to see the harm that rumors do to innocent people.
Joanna starts getting threatening texts from the person who may be the child murderer. The murder was of a five year old boy by a ten year old girl, long ago. The girl served her sentence and was released as an eighteen year old, to live her life under a new name. But many people aren't prepared to let this child murderer live in peace, if they can figure out who she is and how to get her out of their town. And now the murderer is targeting Joanna for starting the rumors, even threatening Alfie with a photo of him stabbed in the heart. Joanna's scared but can't turn back time, can't shut the rumor down, the harm has been done and things are escalating.
The book contains so many characters, moms, kids, and older women who could fit the description of the child murderer. I had four older women pegged as likely candidates. There is also Michael, Alfie's dad and Joanna's partner, who is a journalist and wants to interview the murderer, if he can find her. Lots going on, with Joanna overthinking and then not acting on things she knows she should do, such as discuss a myriad of important issues with Michael, from the status of their relationship to how she is the one who started the rumors. Joanna frustrated me with all her thinking, overthinking, and then failing to do things she should have done and later regretting her inaction. The big climax seemed clunky to me, with lots of talking and thud of a resolution. The plot and story say a lot about how people handle things that make them uncomfortable, how people can't forget past offences despite the debt being paid, and how rumors can destroy so many lives. I just wish the telling of the story could have come together a bit more smoothly.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Goodreads Giveaway, for this ARC.
Joanna starts getting threatening texts from the person who may be the child murderer. The murder was of a five year old boy by a ten year old girl, long ago. The girl served her sentence and was released as an eighteen year old, to live her life under a new name. But many people aren't prepared to let this child murderer live in peace, if they can figure out who she is and how to get her out of their town. And now the murderer is targeting Joanna for starting the rumors, even threatening Alfie with a photo of him stabbed in the heart. Joanna's scared but can't turn back time, can't shut the rumor down, the harm has been done and things are escalating.
The book contains so many characters, moms, kids, and older women who could fit the description of the child murderer. I had four older women pegged as likely candidates. There is also Michael, Alfie's dad and Joanna's partner, who is a journalist and wants to interview the murderer, if he can find her. Lots going on, with Joanna overthinking and then not acting on things she knows she should do, such as discuss a myriad of important issues with Michael, from the status of their relationship to how she is the one who started the rumors. Joanna frustrated me with all her thinking, overthinking, and then failing to do things she should have done and later regretting her inaction. The big climax seemed clunky to me, with lots of talking and thud of a resolution. The plot and story say a lot about how people handle things that make them uncomfortable, how people can't forget past offences despite the debt being paid, and how rumors can destroy so many lives. I just wish the telling of the story could have come together a bit more smoothly.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Goodreads Giveaway, for this ARC.
September 21, 2018
I am much earlier reading this book than intended before it’s release date.
But I’ve been anxious to read it. I love debut novels and discovering new authors I can follow.
I can honestly say I’ll be following Lesley Kara for her next book as this book was so good.
I became very invested with each character and without giving much away, I was so intensely motivated with questions of my own.
For example, how would I feel if I was the rumour?
I have and still am part of a rumour that was being spread. It’s not nice. In my case I can stick it out, the truth comes out in the end.
But what if you exacerbated that rumour adding more coal to the fire?
Sometimes a person just can’t help talking and guessing and passing on information that isn’t correct......yes, a rumour.
Those rumours have consequences, domino effects on loved ones.
The intensity of the storyline in this debut book (yes debut) had me hook line and sinker.
If I wasn’t reading it I was telling my hubby about it.
He said it would make a good drama or movie.
I think he’s right.
When I like a book, I like a book, when I love a book, I can’t stop talking about it.
May the Rumour continue (in the nicest possible way) when you get your hands on this.
But I’ve been anxious to read it. I love debut novels and discovering new authors I can follow.
I can honestly say I’ll be following Lesley Kara for her next book as this book was so good.
I became very invested with each character and without giving much away, I was so intensely motivated with questions of my own.
For example, how would I feel if I was the rumour?
I have and still am part of a rumour that was being spread. It’s not nice. In my case I can stick it out, the truth comes out in the end.
But what if you exacerbated that rumour adding more coal to the fire?
Sometimes a person just can’t help talking and guessing and passing on information that isn’t correct......yes, a rumour.
Those rumours have consequences, domino effects on loved ones.
The intensity of the storyline in this debut book (yes debut) had me hook line and sinker.
If I wasn’t reading it I was telling my hubby about it.
He said it would make a good drama or movie.
I think he’s right.
When I like a book, I like a book, when I love a book, I can’t stop talking about it.
May the Rumour continue (in the nicest possible way) when you get your hands on this.
February 3, 2023
EXCERPT: It's happening again. Don't ask me how I know, I just do. I see it in the roll of the waves, the way they're bearing in at a slant. Fast. Restless. I feel it in the nip of the air on my skin, smell it in the rotting leaves and damp earth, hear it in the silence of the watching crows. You're coming for me again and there's nothing I can do to stop you.
This is how it happens. One night I go to bed and everything's fine. Everything's under control. The story has ceased to be a story. It's real. Solid. Unbreakable. Then I wake up and it's changed. Cracks have appeared overnight and I realize that I've been fooling myself all this time, that I've only ever been the most fragile of constructions.
I 'm the hunted. I'll always be the hunted.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: When single mum Joanna hears a rumour at the school gates, she never intends to pass it on. But one casual comment leads to another and now there’s no going back . . .
Rumour has it that a notorious child killer is living under a new identity, in their sleepy little town of Flinstead-on-Sea.
Sally McGowan was just ten years old when she stabbed little Robbie Harris to death forty-eight years ago – no photos of her exist since her release as a young woman.
So who is the supposedly reformed killer who now lives among them? How dangerous can one rumour become? And how far will Joanna go to protect her loved ones from harm, when she realizes what it is she’s unleashed?
MY THOUGHTS: We have all been guilty of gossip, of spreading unsubstantiated rumours, with little thought of the lives we might be disrupting. 'One casual remark. One whispered confidence. That's all it takes to set the wheels in motion and change the course of a life.' We may not intend to hurt anyone, we may just be desperate to fit in, as Joanna is. After all, they are only words, and if the person is guilty, then aren't they getting their just desserts?
I have often been loud and vocal in my opposition to name suppression and the creation of new identities for criminals being released into an unsuspecting community. The Rumour gave me pause to reconsider my views but, ultimately, I have stood by them. I do love a book that makes me stop and think while still being a good entertaining read.
This is an incredibly well written debut novel that sucked me in and kept me captivated until it spat me out at the last page. I suspected everyone of being the child killer, everyone that is except the person who it actually was. . . And even then, it wasn't over. Lesley Kara wasn't finished with me. She had one final surprise that left me with my jaw dropped and wanting more.
Definitely an author I will be following closely.
💖💕💖💕💖
THE AUTHOR: Lesley Kara is an alumna of the Faber Writing Academy 'Writing a Novel' course. She lives in the small town of Flinstead-on-Sea on the North Essex coast. The Rumour is her first novel.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Bantam Press via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Rumour for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
This is how it happens. One night I go to bed and everything's fine. Everything's under control. The story has ceased to be a story. It's real. Solid. Unbreakable. Then I wake up and it's changed. Cracks have appeared overnight and I realize that I've been fooling myself all this time, that I've only ever been the most fragile of constructions.
I 'm the hunted. I'll always be the hunted.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: When single mum Joanna hears a rumour at the school gates, she never intends to pass it on. But one casual comment leads to another and now there’s no going back . . .
Rumour has it that a notorious child killer is living under a new identity, in their sleepy little town of Flinstead-on-Sea.
Sally McGowan was just ten years old when she stabbed little Robbie Harris to death forty-eight years ago – no photos of her exist since her release as a young woman.
So who is the supposedly reformed killer who now lives among them? How dangerous can one rumour become? And how far will Joanna go to protect her loved ones from harm, when she realizes what it is she’s unleashed?
MY THOUGHTS: We have all been guilty of gossip, of spreading unsubstantiated rumours, with little thought of the lives we might be disrupting. 'One casual remark. One whispered confidence. That's all it takes to set the wheels in motion and change the course of a life.' We may not intend to hurt anyone, we may just be desperate to fit in, as Joanna is. After all, they are only words, and if the person is guilty, then aren't they getting their just desserts?
I have often been loud and vocal in my opposition to name suppression and the creation of new identities for criminals being released into an unsuspecting community. The Rumour gave me pause to reconsider my views but, ultimately, I have stood by them. I do love a book that makes me stop and think while still being a good entertaining read.
This is an incredibly well written debut novel that sucked me in and kept me captivated until it spat me out at the last page. I suspected everyone of being the child killer, everyone that is except the person who it actually was. . . And even then, it wasn't over. Lesley Kara wasn't finished with me. She had one final surprise that left me with my jaw dropped and wanting more.
Definitely an author I will be following closely.
💖💕💖💕💖
THE AUTHOR: Lesley Kara is an alumna of the Faber Writing Academy 'Writing a Novel' course. She lives in the small town of Flinstead-on-Sea on the North Essex coast. The Rumour is her first novel.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, Bantam Press via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Rumour for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 16, 2019
3.75*
A little harmless gossip among the moms waiting at the school drop-off.
Did you hear? Rumor is, there’s a child killer now released from prison living in their seaside town. Could that be true? If so, the obvious next question is, are their children safe from this predator?
This particular feed of gossip peaks the interest of one of the mom in particular, Joanna.
Curious, later that night she googles the story. Gripped with fear, she realizes she may have just met this person! Maybe she needs to warn everyone...maybe it’s not just a rumor anymore!
Lesley Kara writes an intriguing and suspenseful thriller that I flew through in just a few sittings. Though I guessed most of the twists fairly early, I still enjoyed throughout.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine and Lesley Kara for an ARC to read and review.
A little harmless gossip among the moms waiting at the school drop-off.
Did you hear? Rumor is, there’s a child killer now released from prison living in their seaside town. Could that be true? If so, the obvious next question is, are their children safe from this predator?
This particular feed of gossip peaks the interest of one of the mom in particular, Joanna.
Curious, later that night she googles the story. Gripped with fear, she realizes she may have just met this person! Maybe she needs to warn everyone...maybe it’s not just a rumor anymore!
Lesley Kara writes an intriguing and suspenseful thriller that I flew through in just a few sittings. Though I guessed most of the twists fairly early, I still enjoyed throughout.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine and Lesley Kara for an ARC to read and review.
June 22, 2019
2.5 Stars* (rounded down)
Joanna and her son Alfie move into the quite community of Flinstead where her mother lives in hopes that both Jo and Alfie will fit in. Fitting in has never been either’s strong suit. It is then that Jo does it. Starts the rumor! Of a notorious murderer living in Flinstead. It takes off like wildfire. And just like that, Jo is a part of the “in crowd” and everyone wants to know more about Sally McGown.
I’ve never personally thought much about rumors. But then I’ve never spread any. Just goes to show you. This book sure makes you think about them - I’ll give you that. It also makes your eyes roll, and roll.
If you like idle chit chat, gossip and/or you will live in a small community, maybe you’ll like this novel, unfortunately, it just wasn’t my cuppa.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group and Lesley Kara for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 6.22.19.
Joanna and her son Alfie move into the quite community of Flinstead where her mother lives in hopes that both Jo and Alfie will fit in. Fitting in has never been either’s strong suit. It is then that Jo does it. Starts the rumor! Of a notorious murderer living in Flinstead. It takes off like wildfire. And just like that, Jo is a part of the “in crowd” and everyone wants to know more about Sally McGown.
I’ve never personally thought much about rumors. But then I’ve never spread any. Just goes to show you. This book sure makes you think about them - I’ll give you that. It also makes your eyes roll, and roll.
If you like idle chit chat, gossip and/or you will live in a small community, maybe you’ll like this novel, unfortunately, it just wasn’t my cuppa.
Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group and Lesley Kara for an arc of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 6.22.19.
December 2, 2018
It all started as gossip at the school gates and spread like wild fire!! Is there a child killer living amongst them?
I could have bet money on who I thought was the culprit, but I was constantly changing my mind. I couldn’t rest until I knew the truth!!
A very thrilling book that spellbound me with its many twists, full of tension and suspense. The house could have been on fire but I was so engrossed I wouldn’t have noticed!!
A must read debut book, definitely an author to look out for.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
I could have bet money on who I thought was the culprit, but I was constantly changing my mind. I couldn’t rest until I knew the truth!!
A very thrilling book that spellbound me with its many twists, full of tension and suspense. The house could have been on fire but I was so engrossed I wouldn’t have noticed!!
A must read debut book, definitely an author to look out for.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
June 19, 2020
I listened to this audiobook about nine months ago. I was recovering from surgery so I didn't take many notes. However, I thought I should update it before too much time goes by. If I leave it too long then I might end up buying it again thinking I haven't read it yet.
While I don't remember every detail, I do remember that I listened to it rather quickly and enjoyed it. It was a little over the top at times, but it had me gripped and I remember I was very surprised by the ending.
This story got me thinking about how much damage can be caused by gossip and rumours. I won't say that I'm completely innocent when it comes to gossiping, but I do try to keep it to a minimum. Honestly, can anyone say that they've NEVER gossiped?
A gripping and entertaining audiobook that has me looking forward to reading more from this author.
March 13, 2019
"
Rumours are carried by haters
Spread by Fools
and accepted by idiots "
The Rumour.......an interesting title for a book and it certainly caught my attention. When single mum Joanna shares a rumour at the school gates desperate to ingratiate herself with the clique of mothers at her son’s new school – there is no going back . . .
This one started out quite intriguing and entertaining however it did become a little predictable and far fetched and had me rolling the eyes on more than one occasion. However it did hold my attention and was an easy read. Characters were a little bland and washy , but on the plus side it passed a few hours on audio but I doubt I will remember much about this one a year from now. I think this one had so much potential but ended up just being 2.5 star read for me.
I listened to this one on audible and the narration wa quite good.
Spread by Fools
and accepted by idiots "
The Rumour.......an interesting title for a book and it certainly caught my attention. When single mum Joanna shares a rumour at the school gates desperate to ingratiate herself with the clique of mothers at her son’s new school – there is no going back . . .
This one started out quite intriguing and entertaining however it did become a little predictable and far fetched and had me rolling the eyes on more than one occasion. However it did hold my attention and was an easy read. Characters were a little bland and washy , but on the plus side it passed a few hours on audio but I doubt I will remember much about this one a year from now. I think this one had so much potential but ended up just being 2.5 star read for me.
I listened to this one on audible and the narration wa quite good.
March 28, 2019
Loved the sound of this book!!
This definitely caught my attention by the cover and the title!
Single mother Joanna shares a rumour at her child's school...desperate to fit in with the other moms. I don't think she knew what she was getting herself into... let's just say you can never go back.
This initially started out with a bang but I caught myself rolling my eyes and it just sort of became painful to read after awhile. I was skimming and it just became so repetitive after awhile my goodness.
There were so many characters and unnecessary information at the beginning to middle that I was just getting super confused! I also saw all of the twists playing out wayyyy before the story was revealed.
Characterization was weak and just not enough umph to the story in my opinion. I was super disappointed and unfortunately this a thriller that did not deliver at all.
This book had SO much potential but was lacking in so many areas.
I didn't overall enjoy this one and would give this a 2.5 stars.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 6/18/19
Published to Goodreads: 3/27/19
This definitely caught my attention by the cover and the title!
Single mother Joanna shares a rumour at her child's school...desperate to fit in with the other moms. I don't think she knew what she was getting herself into... let's just say you can never go back.
This initially started out with a bang but I caught myself rolling my eyes and it just sort of became painful to read after awhile. I was skimming and it just became so repetitive after awhile my goodness.
There were so many characters and unnecessary information at the beginning to middle that I was just getting super confused! I also saw all of the twists playing out wayyyy before the story was revealed.
Characterization was weak and just not enough umph to the story in my opinion. I was super disappointed and unfortunately this a thriller that did not deliver at all.
This book had SO much potential but was lacking in so many areas.
I didn't overall enjoy this one and would give this a 2.5 stars.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 6/18/19
Published to Goodreads: 3/27/19
January 22, 2019
"The Rumour" is Lesley Kara's debut novel and it is a thoroughly enjoyable, twisty and compelling thriller that held my attention from the very first page. If I could have read this in one sitting I would have, I enjoyed it that much and highly recommend to thriller readers who love uncomplicated but clever, exciting and gripping stories.
When single mum Joanna hears a rumour at the school gates, she never intends to pass it on. But one casual comment leads to another and now there’s no going back . . .
Based on a germ of an idea the author had after she too passed on a rumour about a notorious figure, said to be in a 'safe house' in the area she was living in at the time, made her wonder 'what if' and how she would feel if she knew for sure. This has made for a very enticing premise and a very realistic one at that. We never know who we could have living beside us and I think we're all guilty at some point of passing on rumours or partaking in gossip involving people we know. Can we ever truly know our friends, neighbours and acquaintances and how would we feel about justice and revenge if we discovered one had been guilty of a heinous crime?
I felt this was a very natural read that was easy to follow and with various red herrings to keep you on your toes, this led to a couple of twists at the end I didn't see coming. Although the practicalities of who the rumour mongering turned out to be was a little dubious for me, I still found the conclusion thoroughly enjoyable and with short, pacy chapters you really do just want to keep reading to the end in one go.
The author captured a small town with its typical nosy residents perfectly and I could definitely relate to the school run mothers and their gossiping. I also know of the anxieties and worries Joanna felt about her son possibly being bullied at school and the feeling of having to 'fit in' with other parents so as not to alienate your child from other school kids.
This book highlights the perils and dangers of rumour mongering and how a casual, flippant remark can affect so many lives. It does make you stop and think about the repercussions of vigilantism and how quickly gossip can spread like a rollercoaster into a powerful and dangerous situation.
"The Rumour" would make a cracking television drama and I will certainly read more by this debut author again and look forward to more intriguing and well thought out thrillers by her in the future.
4.5 well deserved stars!
When single mum Joanna hears a rumour at the school gates, she never intends to pass it on. But one casual comment leads to another and now there’s no going back . . .
Based on a germ of an idea the author had after she too passed on a rumour about a notorious figure, said to be in a 'safe house' in the area she was living in at the time, made her wonder 'what if' and how she would feel if she knew for sure. This has made for a very enticing premise and a very realistic one at that. We never know who we could have living beside us and I think we're all guilty at some point of passing on rumours or partaking in gossip involving people we know. Can we ever truly know our friends, neighbours and acquaintances and how would we feel about justice and revenge if we discovered one had been guilty of a heinous crime?
I felt this was a very natural read that was easy to follow and with various red herrings to keep you on your toes, this led to a couple of twists at the end I didn't see coming. Although the practicalities of who the rumour mongering turned out to be was a little dubious for me, I still found the conclusion thoroughly enjoyable and with short, pacy chapters you really do just want to keep reading to the end in one go.
The author captured a small town with its typical nosy residents perfectly and I could definitely relate to the school run mothers and their gossiping. I also know of the anxieties and worries Joanna felt about her son possibly being bullied at school and the feeling of having to 'fit in' with other parents so as not to alienate your child from other school kids.
This book highlights the perils and dangers of rumour mongering and how a casual, flippant remark can affect so many lives. It does make you stop and think about the repercussions of vigilantism and how quickly gossip can spread like a rollercoaster into a powerful and dangerous situation.
"The Rumour" would make a cracking television drama and I will certainly read more by this debut author again and look forward to more intriguing and well thought out thrillers by her in the future.
4.5 well deserved stars!
April 28, 2025
The Rumour is Lesley Kara’s debut novel, a gripping book about what people are capable of doing when they feel threatened and exposed. A thriller about paranoia, fear and suspense unlike anything you have read before.
When Joanna moved into a small town, all she wants to do is be happy, with her son Alfie and her mother being beside her. Her son Alfie had troubles with bullies in the big city, and all his mum wants for him right now is for him to be happy and fit in the crowd.
And when a rumour starts hovering around that a woman that has killed a child a long time ago is living in the town, under a new identity, Joanna decides to share this rumour around with her friends, hoping that this will hopefully result in Alfie making some friends.
But what happens when a simple comment goes all wrong, and starts spreading like a virus? And what if this rumour happens to be true? What if there is indeed a killer living undercover in this small town, and is very upset and wants to punish those who share this rumour around? Starting with Alfie…
*
The Rumour was a thrilling read for me, as I haven’t read anything similar before. We see the story from Joanne’s point of view, but mostly, we see the story from a perspective of a mother.
We see a woman who is overthinking everything regarding her child, always asking herself twice whether she has made the right choice, and always wondering whether her child is safe.
And I am not a parent, but I can imagine that every parent over-worries about their children. Even at some point all of us would wonder whether this is normal, or we are just being paranoid again? And this initial moment has lead Joanne to become anxious and insecure, and feeling like something is wrong constantly.
I loved the plot around the child-killer, and how it slowly was developing through a lot of characters.
I certainly did not expect that twist a few chapters before the end, and the final twist in the last chapters. This gave the story a whole new ‘’wow’’ factor, and I was really pleased.
I wouldn’t put it on my shelf of 5-star books, as I couldn’t get the biting nails moment. However, this books keeps you reading through, and I can’t wait to read more from Lesley. She is a great author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, for giving me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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When Joanna moved into a small town, all she wants to do is be happy, with her son Alfie and her mother being beside her. Her son Alfie had troubles with bullies in the big city, and all his mum wants for him right now is for him to be happy and fit in the crowd.
And when a rumour starts hovering around that a woman that has killed a child a long time ago is living in the town, under a new identity, Joanna decides to share this rumour around with her friends, hoping that this will hopefully result in Alfie making some friends.
But what happens when a simple comment goes all wrong, and starts spreading like a virus? And what if this rumour happens to be true? What if there is indeed a killer living undercover in this small town, and is very upset and wants to punish those who share this rumour around? Starting with Alfie…
*
The Rumour was a thrilling read for me, as I haven’t read anything similar before. We see the story from Joanne’s point of view, but mostly, we see the story from a perspective of a mother.
We see a woman who is overthinking everything regarding her child, always asking herself twice whether she has made the right choice, and always wondering whether her child is safe.
And I am not a parent, but I can imagine that every parent over-worries about their children. Even at some point all of us would wonder whether this is normal, or we are just being paranoid again? And this initial moment has lead Joanne to become anxious and insecure, and feeling like something is wrong constantly.
I loved the plot around the child-killer, and how it slowly was developing through a lot of characters.
I certainly did not expect that twist a few chapters before the end, and the final twist in the last chapters. This gave the story a whole new ‘’wow’’ factor, and I was really pleased.
I wouldn’t put it on my shelf of 5-star books, as I couldn’t get the biting nails moment. However, this books keeps you reading through, and I can’t wait to read more from Lesley. She is a great author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, for giving me an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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May 12, 2020
“Wie is de moordenaar in ons midden? Het kan iedereen zijn…” https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2020...
December 3, 2018
Joanna finds herself struggling to fit into her new life since moving to the small town of Flinstead with her son. They are both struggling to make new friends. When she hears a rumour at the school gates she casually mentions it to one of the mums and it quickly spreads. A child killer is amongst them and they have a new identity. Who is this person?
This story shows us how quickly a rumour starts and how fast it can spread. It also shows the damage that can happen to innocent people. Also the danger lives can be put in. I liked Joanna and found myself sympathising with her predicament. She instantly regretted saying what she has said. The story is full of tension, suspense and twists. The pace is set fast. It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel, it's so well written. The ending I never saw coming. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and the author Lesley Kara for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story shows us how quickly a rumour starts and how fast it can spread. It also shows the damage that can happen to innocent people. Also the danger lives can be put in. I liked Joanna and found myself sympathising with her predicament. She instantly regretted saying what she has said. The story is full of tension, suspense and twists. The pace is set fast. It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel, it's so well written. The ending I never saw coming. I do recommend this book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and the author Lesley Kara for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2019
'Rumors are like seeds, scattered on the wind. There's no telling where they'll land, but land they will. Setting in cracks, and crevices, the roots take hold. The seed sprout. It doesn't matter if they're true or false. The more times they're spoken, the faster and stronger they grow. Like weeds, waving in the air."
Joanna is just trying to fit in with the other Moms at her son's new school, when she repeats a rumor that she has heard....that a notorious killer, is living under a new identity, in their small seaside town.
Who is Sally McGown?
Everyone becomes obsessed in figuring out who she could be...all women in the correct age range, or with the correct initials, become “suspects”!
Joanna shares the “rumor” with her son's father, Michael, an investigative reporter, and the two scour the internet for old stories, and videos about Sally. He wants to flush her out and offer her a chance to tell her “version of the truth”, in the form of a book. The two have no idea about what they have started when they share this rumor.
"One casual remark. One whispered secret. That's all it takes to set the wheels in motion and change the course of a life. Once, some poor woman they thought was me was driven out of her home. She lost her job, her reputation, her peace of mind. Ended up throwing herself in front of a high speed train."
Inspired by a sensational true crime story, this debut novel had an interesting premise, and an ENGAGING writing style...…..but, it had a few flaws as well....
There were too many characters, for starters. I thought I needed to make a flow chart in the beginning to keep them all straight. Come to find out, some had no real purpose in the story other than (for example) to be part of a book club meeting that Joanna attends one time, and they never appear in the story again, and since they were moms of Alfie's classmates, they were not even the right age to be viable "suspects".
The main characters were not well developed either.
Nor was Michael's investigation into the case.
The sensational ending, did not really work for me either, though to be fair, since I am not familiar with the actual event, perhaps that IS similar to how it all played out?
I think that if the author had written this as woman's fiction, instead of as a thriller, it would've worked much better. Exploring further the ramifications of how a crime committed as a child, a fresh start, and then a rumor exposing your past, makes you have to start over again, was the strong part of the story...not the "thriller" part.
I guessed who Sally McGown was pretty early on, so I was not surprised.
3.5 stars rounded down....
I would like to thank Nicola, for an enjoyable buddy read! Despite our time zone differences, we made it work!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine, and the author for the digital ARC I was provided in exchange for a candid review! This was a version edited for an American audience from the original book published in the U.K.-available in the U.S on June 18th, 2019!
Joanna is just trying to fit in with the other Moms at her son's new school, when she repeats a rumor that she has heard....that a notorious killer, is living under a new identity, in their small seaside town.
Who is Sally McGown?
Everyone becomes obsessed in figuring out who she could be...all women in the correct age range, or with the correct initials, become “suspects”!
Joanna shares the “rumor” with her son's father, Michael, an investigative reporter, and the two scour the internet for old stories, and videos about Sally. He wants to flush her out and offer her a chance to tell her “version of the truth”, in the form of a book. The two have no idea about what they have started when they share this rumor.
"One casual remark. One whispered secret. That's all it takes to set the wheels in motion and change the course of a life. Once, some poor woman they thought was me was driven out of her home. She lost her job, her reputation, her peace of mind. Ended up throwing herself in front of a high speed train."
Inspired by a sensational true crime story, this debut novel had an interesting premise, and an ENGAGING writing style...…..but, it had a few flaws as well....
There were too many characters, for starters. I thought I needed to make a flow chart in the beginning to keep them all straight. Come to find out, some had no real purpose in the story other than (for example) to be part of a book club meeting that Joanna attends one time, and they never appear in the story again, and since they were moms of Alfie's classmates, they were not even the right age to be viable "suspects".
The main characters were not well developed either.
Nor was Michael's investigation into the case.
The sensational ending, did not really work for me either, though to be fair, since I am not familiar with the actual event, perhaps that IS similar to how it all played out?
I think that if the author had written this as woman's fiction, instead of as a thriller, it would've worked much better. Exploring further the ramifications of how a crime committed as a child, a fresh start, and then a rumor exposing your past, makes you have to start over again, was the strong part of the story...not the "thriller" part.
I guessed who Sally McGown was pretty early on, so I was not surprised.
3.5 stars rounded down....
I would like to thank Nicola, for an enjoyable buddy read! Despite our time zone differences, we made it work!
I would like to thank Netgalley, Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine, and the author for the digital ARC I was provided in exchange for a candid review! This was a version edited for an American audience from the original book published in the U.K.-available in the U.S on June 18th, 2019!
June 10, 2019
The Rumor was such a twisted and addictive read, I couldn't believe that this was Lesley Kara's debut novel. I was hooked right from the start as the characters and plot took me on a rollercoaster ride full of twists and turns.
I think we all know the power of a rumor and how they can spread like crazy in a matter of minutes. Well, Joanna, a single mother, discovers just how deadly and powerful a rumor can be. So desperate to fit in with the popular school moms, Joanna repeats a rumor she overheard by another group of school moms, and now she can't take it back. The rumor has everyone on edge and suspicious of each other. Just how dangerous can this one rumor become? Let's just say she might regret the day she ever opened her mouth...
This is definitely the perfect read for those who like a good thriller and/or women's fiction. I am definitely going to keep this author on my radar.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think we all know the power of a rumor and how they can spread like crazy in a matter of minutes. Well, Joanna, a single mother, discovers just how deadly and powerful a rumor can be. So desperate to fit in with the popular school moms, Joanna repeats a rumor she overheard by another group of school moms, and now she can't take it back. The rumor has everyone on edge and suspicious of each other. Just how dangerous can this one rumor become? Let's just say she might regret the day she ever opened her mouth...
This is definitely the perfect read for those who like a good thriller and/or women's fiction. I am definitely going to keep this author on my radar.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2019
3.5 stars. OMG that twist in the end! This book is a debut, and I thought it was a very solid debut. I'd definitely read from this author again.
I think the idea behind was very good. A small and secure town. A rumour starts that a woman who killed a child when she was 10, is living there. And things keep rolling.
Kara is very good at keeping you on your toes until the last reveal. It was a slow start I think, but it keeps getting more interesting. I thought the end was glorious. It was surprising and emotional.
Full review to come soon.
I think the idea behind was very good. A small and secure town. A rumour starts that a woman who killed a child when she was 10, is living there. And things keep rolling.
Kara is very good at keeping you on your toes until the last reveal. It was a slow start I think, but it keeps getting more interesting. I thought the end was glorious. It was surprising and emotional.
Full review to come soon.
July 29, 2019
A cautionary tale that delves into the perils of idle chit chat and gossip which can soon snowball into something much more malicious.
This enjoyable thriller explores the impact of single mum Joanne trying to impress her new friends in the seaside town of Flinstead, having recently moved to the area with her son Alfie.
Joanne hears that the notorious child killer Sally McGowan (aged 10) had been assigned a new identity and is living in the area, nearly 50 years on an people are still fascinated by the case.
Happily to pass on the information at the local book club, Joanne is about to open a Pandora’s Box that sees suspicion cast on another resident.
As she delves to discover the truth, the implications of unmasking Sally could have massive repercussions...
I found this debut novel to be a real pager turner, not only the curiosity of finding out the identity of Sally but how much is at stake for Joanne.
The attacks Joanne received on Twitter only added to the tension.
It kept me guessing!
This enjoyable thriller explores the impact of single mum Joanne trying to impress her new friends in the seaside town of Flinstead, having recently moved to the area with her son Alfie.
Joanne hears that the notorious child killer Sally McGowan (aged 10) had been assigned a new identity and is living in the area, nearly 50 years on an people are still fascinated by the case.
Happily to pass on the information at the local book club, Joanne is about to open a Pandora’s Box that sees suspicion cast on another resident.
As she delves to discover the truth, the implications of unmasking Sally could have massive repercussions...
I found this debut novel to be a real pager turner, not only the curiosity of finding out the identity of Sally but how much is at stake for Joanne.
The attacks Joanne received on Twitter only added to the tension.
It kept me guessing!
June 13, 2019
Kudos to anyone who was able to figure out the final twists!
Lesley Kara’s writing was entertaining...especially for a debut. It was fairly fast-paced and I look forward to reading her next book.
What causes people to spread gossip? Do they believe what they’re saying...or are they simply trying to fit in? Do they consider the harm they might cause? Or is it just too tempting to gather like piranhas at feeding time?
Excerpts:
Jo decides to leave the city and return to her hometown with her young son—Alfie. They have a cottage around the corner from Jo’s mother and close to Alfie’s school. But Jo and Alfie find it hard to fit in, so Jo joins some other mothers in a gossip session to try to connect with them. She swore she wouldn’t be one of “those mothers” when she moved back to Flinstead, but she wants to help Alfie make friends.
The rumor is...that a notorious killer, that committed a brutal crime as a child, relocated to Flinstead decades ago under a new identity. After Jo makes a comment to her book club, the rumor spreads like wildfire and it doesn’t take long before it gets out of control. I started out really liking Jo, but she was becoming irritating towards the end.
With a large cast of characters, I had a hard time keeping track of them all. I did have some suspects narrowed down, but was shocked to find out the identity of the killer.
I found the bits about witness protection very interesting. I’ve never thought about everything that was involved in the process of changing identities. Not only are you leaving your old life, friends and family behind, but you are responsible for “learning” your new life. I can imagine how it takes a toll on your mental health.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
My Rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s (rounding down to 3)
Published: June 18th 2019 by Ballantine Books
Pages: 336
Recommend: Yes
Excerpts:
Lesley Kara’s writing was entertaining...especially for a debut. It was fairly fast-paced and I look forward to reading her next book.
What causes people to spread gossip? Do they believe what they’re saying...or are they simply trying to fit in? Do they consider the harm they might cause? Or is it just too tempting to gather like piranhas at feeding time?
Excerpts:
”A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes—Mark Twain”
Jo decides to leave the city and return to her hometown with her young son—Alfie. They have a cottage around the corner from Jo’s mother and close to Alfie’s school. But Jo and Alfie find it hard to fit in, so Jo joins some other mothers in a gossip session to try to connect with them. She swore she wouldn’t be one of “those mothers” when she moved back to Flinstead, but she wants to help Alfie make friends.
The rumor is...that a notorious killer, that committed a brutal crime as a child, relocated to Flinstead decades ago under a new identity. After Jo makes a comment to her book club, the rumor spreads like wildfire and it doesn’t take long before it gets out of control. I started out really liking Jo, but she was becoming irritating towards the end.
With a large cast of characters, I had a hard time keeping track of them all. I did have some suspects narrowed down, but was shocked to find out the identity of the killer.
I found the bits about witness protection very interesting. I’ve never thought about everything that was involved in the process of changing identities. Not only are you leaving your old life, friends and family behind, but you are responsible for “learning” your new life. I can imagine how it takes a toll on your mental health.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
My Rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s (rounding down to 3)
Published: June 18th 2019 by Ballantine Books
Pages: 336
Recommend: Yes
Excerpts:
”Rumors are like seeds, scattered on the wind. There’s no telling where they’ll land, but land they will. Settling in cracks and crevices, the roots take hold. The seeds sprout. It doesn’t matter if they’re true or false. The more times they’re spoken, the faster and stronger they grow. Like weeds, waving in the air.”
July 18, 2019
A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes— Mark Twain.
It’s happening again. Don’t ask me how I know. I just do. I see it in the roll of the waves, the way they’re bearing in at a slant. Fast. Relentless. I feel it in the nip of the air on my skin, smell it in the rotting leaves and damp earth, hear it in the silence of the watching crows. You’re coming for me again and there’s nothing I can do to stop you. This is how it happens. One night I go to bed and everything’s fine. Everything’s under control. The story has ceased to be a story. It’s real. Solid. Unbreakable. Then I wake up and it’s changed. Cracks have appeared overnight and I realize that I’ve been fooling myself all this time, that I’ve only ever been the most fragile of constructions. I’m the hunted. I’ll always be the hunted.
It starts with a rumor. Whispers at the school gate.
I’m not really listening at first. I promised Dave I’d pick up the keys to the Maple Drive property and meet a client there. I don’t have time to stand around in a gossipy huddle with this group.
But then I catch sight of Debbie Barton’s face—the way her jaw’s just dropped—and my curiosity gets the better of me.
“Say that again,”she says. “I don’t believe it.”
I edge closer, as does little Ketifa’s mother, Fatima. Jake’s mother—is it Cathy?—looks from side to side before she speaks, milking her moment in the spotlight for all it’s worth.
“There’s a strong possibility that a famous child killer is living right here in Flinstead,”she says, pausing to let her words take effect. “Under a new identity, of course. She murdered a little boy when she was ten, back in the sixties. Stabbed him with a kitchen knife, right through his heart.
**********
Stop me if you've heard this teaser before...…
The Rumor by Lesley Kara is a thrilling read with a massive twist!
In this case, it's absolutely true!
As I read, I had my pick for the the identity of the notorious child killer. Of course, I changed my mind half a dozen times but rounding the last corner to the finale, I had my pick chosen and I was certain I was right!
I was wrong!! Very wrong!
Not just with my final choice, but all of them! Wow! I was shocked!
I've already decided to add Lesley Kara's next book, Who Did You Tell?, coming out in January 2020.
With thanks and appreciation to NetGalley, Ballantine Books/Random House publishing, and Lesley Kara for this advanced digital copy to read and review.
It’s happening again. Don’t ask me how I know. I just do. I see it in the roll of the waves, the way they’re bearing in at a slant. Fast. Relentless. I feel it in the nip of the air on my skin, smell it in the rotting leaves and damp earth, hear it in the silence of the watching crows. You’re coming for me again and there’s nothing I can do to stop you. This is how it happens. One night I go to bed and everything’s fine. Everything’s under control. The story has ceased to be a story. It’s real. Solid. Unbreakable. Then I wake up and it’s changed. Cracks have appeared overnight and I realize that I’ve been fooling myself all this time, that I’ve only ever been the most fragile of constructions. I’m the hunted. I’ll always be the hunted.
It starts with a rumor. Whispers at the school gate.
I’m not really listening at first. I promised Dave I’d pick up the keys to the Maple Drive property and meet a client there. I don’t have time to stand around in a gossipy huddle with this group.
But then I catch sight of Debbie Barton’s face—the way her jaw’s just dropped—and my curiosity gets the better of me.
“Say that again,”she says. “I don’t believe it.”
I edge closer, as does little Ketifa’s mother, Fatima. Jake’s mother—is it Cathy?—looks from side to side before she speaks, milking her moment in the spotlight for all it’s worth.
“There’s a strong possibility that a famous child killer is living right here in Flinstead,”she says, pausing to let her words take effect. “Under a new identity, of course. She murdered a little boy when she was ten, back in the sixties. Stabbed him with a kitchen knife, right through his heart.
**********
Stop me if you've heard this teaser before...…
The Rumor by Lesley Kara is a thrilling read with a massive twist!
In this case, it's absolutely true!
As I read, I had my pick for the the identity of the notorious child killer. Of course, I changed my mind half a dozen times but rounding the last corner to the finale, I had my pick chosen and I was certain I was right!
I was wrong!! Very wrong!
Not just with my final choice, but all of them! Wow! I was shocked!
I've already decided to add Lesley Kara's next book, Who Did You Tell?, coming out in January 2020.
With thanks and appreciation to NetGalley, Ballantine Books/Random House publishing, and Lesley Kara for this advanced digital copy to read and review.
October 23, 2019
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
2.5 Stars
I read this about 15,000 weeks ago and never wrote a review because my momma always taught me . . . . .
Seriously, though, if I actually had something bad to say y’all know I’d be barfing out all over the place. This just didn’t cause much of a reaction. It takes a brave soul to roll the dice and name drop “if you like Liane Moriarty” and it doesn’t always work out. The story here was about a rumor of a potential child killer moving into a small town and all the mommies getting in a tizzy about it. It was perfectly mediocre. I will say I have notes on the Kindle regarding the big reveal raising my hinky meter due to the ages of people maybe not lining up for it to work for me without questioning things, so you could maybe take that into consideration? Or not. After all, the only reason I requested this book in the first place was because I thought I was asking for . . . .
Yep . . . .
2.5 Stars
I read this about 15,000 weeks ago and never wrote a review because my momma always taught me . . . . .
Seriously, though, if I actually had something bad to say y’all know I’d be barfing out all over the place. This just didn’t cause much of a reaction. It takes a brave soul to roll the dice and name drop “if you like Liane Moriarty” and it doesn’t always work out. The story here was about a rumor of a potential child killer moving into a small town and all the mommies getting in a tizzy about it. It was perfectly mediocre. I will say I have notes on the Kindle regarding the big reveal raising my hinky meter due to the ages of people maybe not lining up for it to work for me without questioning things, so you could maybe take that into consideration? Or not. After all, the only reason I requested this book in the first place was because I thought I was asking for . . . .
Yep . . . .
May 11, 2022
I just read (and really enjoyed) The Dare. I'm glad to say this one didn't disappoint either!
I'm not sure how I feel about the last sentence... BUT I didn't see the big reveal coming, and that's pretty rare! If you're looking for an interesting domestic thriller, get your hand on this book!
I'm not sure how I feel about the last sentence... BUT I didn't see the big reveal coming, and that's pretty rare! If you're looking for an interesting domestic thriller, get your hand on this book!
January 29, 2021
This book was to slow for me I'm into fast paced book,starts of Joanne starts a rumour years back a youngster killed a 5 year old and now the rumour is she now hiding in the there small town.for me it dragged on it was an okay read.
March 4, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Mystery Thriller
A great book for a debut. Lesley Kara's writing style did not feel came from someone who writes a story or a book for the first time. As the title says, the whole thing starts with a rumor! Joanna is a single mom to Alfie & they live in London but decide to move back to a quiet town where her mother lives after her son has been bullied in his school in London. What happens in that small town later is because of that rumor going around. Things from the past come again to the surface. The rumor of a murderer that has committed a crime in the past has been released and is living in the town under a new name & identity.
Pros:
- The storytelling is very gripping here. Thanks to the author's way of keeping the reader thinking and guessing all the time. You will keep thinking about who that person is going to be. Like the main protagonist, you are not going to trust any of the characters.
- The last two pages of the confession were just great, they ended the story on a high note.
- Loved how the book was neatly structured. The chapters were short & which made reading them a lot easier and faster.
Cons:
- It took me some time to get used to the characters living in the town. Especially because most of the characters were females. So having many female characters might make it overwhelming and a con at first but hang on because things will get better.
Final Thought:
The Rumor is a debut thriller that does not feel like a debut. I think Lesley Kara will have a great career ahead if she continues to write such interesting stories. I give this book a solid 4 stars out of 5. Don't miss it out when it is going to be released on June, 18th 2019.
Many thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for providing me with an advanced reading copy (ARC) of this book and this is my honest unbiased review in return.
Genre: Mystery Thriller
A great book for a debut. Lesley Kara's writing style did not feel came from someone who writes a story or a book for the first time. As the title says, the whole thing starts with a rumor! Joanna is a single mom to Alfie & they live in London but decide to move back to a quiet town where her mother lives after her son has been bullied in his school in London. What happens in that small town later is because of that rumor going around. Things from the past come again to the surface. The rumor of a murderer that has committed a crime in the past has been released and is living in the town under a new name & identity.
Pros:
- The storytelling is very gripping here. Thanks to the author's way of keeping the reader thinking and guessing all the time. You will keep thinking about who that person is going to be. Like the main protagonist, you are not going to trust any of the characters.
- The last two pages of the confession were just great, they ended the story on a high note.
- Loved how the book was neatly structured. The chapters were short & which made reading them a lot easier and faster.
Cons:
- It took me some time to get used to the characters living in the town. Especially because most of the characters were females. So having many female characters might make it overwhelming and a con at first but hang on because things will get better.
Final Thought:
The Rumor is a debut thriller that does not feel like a debut. I think Lesley Kara will have a great career ahead if she continues to write such interesting stories. I give this book a solid 4 stars out of 5. Don't miss it out when it is going to be released on June, 18th 2019.
Many thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for providing me with an advanced reading copy (ARC) of this book and this is my honest unbiased review in return.
December 28, 2018
The Rumour, Lesley Kara's debut thriller, is, for all intents and purposes, a very enjoyable read. It was actually rather thought-provoking which is something I didn't expect to say and that appealed to me immediately. However, it started a bit too pedestrian for my liking and there were a plethora of characters introduced that were completely irrelevant to the story and indistinguishable from one another. The pace soon picked up though, and Kara did a fantastic job of ratcheting up the tension over the course of the story before we came to the explosive and satisfying climax. It asks the reader what they would do if they discovered that a child killer was living in the area in which they live.
There was a feeling of foreboding that underpinned everything and you never knew quite who was deserving of your trust. It illustrates perfectly the dangerous nature of gossip and the potential for things to spiral out of control should that gossip get into the wrong hands. There's no doubt that Kara is a talented author as she manages to keep the perpetrator hidden right up to the end by having a large cast of suspects. Well written, expertly plotted and jam-packed with surprises, this is an assured and deeply chilling debut. I particularly enjoyed learning about witness protection and the impact on an individuals well-being given they have to cut off their family, move location and change their name. The author shows just how difficult it must be to be part of that program with the paranoia that builds when wondering if you have been recognised. But this is part of the time they must do for committing such despicable acts.
Many thanks to Bantam Press for an ARC.
There was a feeling of foreboding that underpinned everything and you never knew quite who was deserving of your trust. It illustrates perfectly the dangerous nature of gossip and the potential for things to spiral out of control should that gossip get into the wrong hands. There's no doubt that Kara is a talented author as she manages to keep the perpetrator hidden right up to the end by having a large cast of suspects. Well written, expertly plotted and jam-packed with surprises, this is an assured and deeply chilling debut. I particularly enjoyed learning about witness protection and the impact on an individuals well-being given they have to cut off their family, move location and change their name. The author shows just how difficult it must be to be part of that program with the paranoia that builds when wondering if you have been recognised. But this is part of the time they must do for committing such despicable acts.
Many thanks to Bantam Press for an ARC.
May 31, 2019
“A single mom discovers just how deadly gossip can be in this irresistible debut thriller inspired by a sensational true crime story”
The Rumor by Lesley Kara is a debut thriller that has just made it to the top of my best reads of 2019 list. This story is written with such intensity and passion that I found it impossible to stop reading! I can’t wait to start recommending The Rumor to other thriller lovers – now GO pick yourself up a copy because you won’t regret it.
I’m grateful to have received an early audiobook copy and truly believe the audio version enhanced my reading experience (US audio release date 6/18/19). Also, thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for an early release copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Rumor by Lesley Kara is a debut thriller that has just made it to the top of my best reads of 2019 list. This story is written with such intensity and passion that I found it impossible to stop reading! I can’t wait to start recommending The Rumor to other thriller lovers – now GO pick yourself up a copy because you won’t regret it.
I’m grateful to have received an early audiobook copy and truly believe the audio version enhanced my reading experience (US audio release date 6/18/19). Also, thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for an early release copy in exchange for an honest review.
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