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Closer Than You Know
Disaster, Melanie Barrick was once told, is always closer than you know.
It was a lesson she learned the hard way growing up in the constant upheaval of foster care. But now that she's survived into adulthood - with a loving husband, a steady job, and a beautiful baby boy - she thought that turmoil was behind her.
Until the evening she goes to pick up her son from childcare, only to discover he's been removed by Social Services. And no one will say why.
A terrifying scenario for any parent, it's doubly so for Melanie, all too aware of the unintended horrors of 'the system'. When she arrives home, her nightmare gets worse - it has been raided by Sheriff's deputies, who have found enough cocaine to send her to prison for years. If Melanie can't prove her innocence, she'll lose her son forever. Her case is assigned to Amy Kaye, a no-nonsense assistant Commonwealth's attorney. Amy's boss wants to make an example out of Melanie, who the local media quickly christens 'Coke Mom'.
But Amy's attention continues to be diverted by a cold case no one wants her to pursue: a serial rapist who has avoided detection by wearing a mask and whispering his commands. Over the years, he has victimized dozens of women in the area - including Melanie. Now it's this mystery man who could be the key to her salvation. or her ultimate undoing.
It was a lesson she learned the hard way growing up in the constant upheaval of foster care. But now that she's survived into adulthood - with a loving husband, a steady job, and a beautiful baby boy - she thought that turmoil was behind her.
Until the evening she goes to pick up her son from childcare, only to discover he's been removed by Social Services. And no one will say why.
A terrifying scenario for any parent, it's doubly so for Melanie, all too aware of the unintended horrors of 'the system'. When she arrives home, her nightmare gets worse - it has been raided by Sheriff's deputies, who have found enough cocaine to send her to prison for years. If Melanie can't prove her innocence, she'll lose her son forever. Her case is assigned to Amy Kaye, a no-nonsense assistant Commonwealth's attorney. Amy's boss wants to make an example out of Melanie, who the local media quickly christens 'Coke Mom'.
But Amy's attention continues to be diverted by a cold case no one wants her to pursue: a serial rapist who has avoided detection by wearing a mask and whispering his commands. Over the years, he has victimized dozens of women in the area - including Melanie. Now it's this mystery man who could be the key to her salvation. or her ultimate undoing.
478 pages, Paperback
First published March 6, 2018
437 people are currently reading
5168 people want to read
About the author
Brad Parks
24 books775 followersInternational bestseller author Brad Parks is the only writer to have won the Shamus, Nero, and Lefty Awards, three of American crime fiction's most prestigious prizes. His books have been translated into 16 languages and have earned starred reviews from every major pre-publication journal.
A father of two and a husband of one, Brad is a slow runner and an even slower swimmer. He's grateful for his readers, because otherwise he'd just be a guy who has a lot of conversations with himself in his own head.
For more information -- or to sign up for the newsletter written by his impertinent interns -- visit his website at www.bradparksbooks.com.
To find Brad on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/Brad_Parks.
And for Facebook: www.facebook.com/BradParksBooks.
A father of two and a husband of one, Brad is a slow runner and an even slower swimmer. He's grateful for his readers, because otherwise he'd just be a guy who has a lot of conversations with himself in his own head.
For more information -- or to sign up for the newsletter written by his impertinent interns -- visit his website at www.bradparksbooks.com.
To find Brad on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/Brad_Parks.
And for Facebook: www.facebook.com/BradParksBooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 461 reviews
April 8, 2018
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
4.5 Stars!!!!
This was my first Brad Parks read and I REALLY enjoyed it! When I first read the description for this novel, I was thoroughly intrigued. I couldn’t wait to start reading.
The book opens with a well-dressed affluent couple walking into Shenandoah Valley Social Services. As they are about to enter the man turns to his wife and says “Remember, we’re perfect” and the wife replies “The perfect couple”. The Family Services specialist agrees with them. Families like theirs usually adopted privately or traveled abroad. But they want to foster and adopt locally. They are reminded that it could be months or years before a baby is available. But the couple seem unconcerned. They completed all of the necessary steps and now they are receiving their certificate. As they are leaving the woman wonders if this could have all been for nothing. The man tells her not to worry…
“ We’ll have a baby in no time”
Melanie Barrick knows firsthand what social services or “ the system ” is like. She grew up in it. But she survived her childhood and now has a great job, a wonderful husband, and best of all…she has Alex, her perfect son. But Melanie’s life turns into a nightmare when she attempts to pick up her son from daycare only to be told that he’s been taken away by social services. Melanie doesn’t understand how this could happen. But she gets no help from the babysitter. The only thing the woman will say to her…
“They told me all about you. I hope they get that child as far away from you as possible”
Melanie knows that occasionally horrible people will call in fake anonymous tips to social services. But who would do this to her family? Melanie is terrified because she knows that once a family is in the system, it is “ guilty until proven innocent ”. As Melanie pulls into her driveway at home, she tries to calm down. She reassures herself that they will sort this out, that everything will be okay…
THEN she sees that there is police tape stretched across her front door. And unfortunately, the hits just keep coming. Melanie learned a lot of things from her time as a ward of the state, but the one thing she’s always remembered…
“Disaster is always closer than you know”
WOW! You sure know how to tell a great story, Mr. Parks!!!
Fast-paced and gripping, this was an awesome read. After a really intense and intriguing start, it was impossible for me to put this novel down. I didn’t want to stop reading. I was anxious one minute and terrified the next… I could NOT wait to see how it all was going to play out.
This was a fast-paced psychological suspense with great characters and a story-line that didn’t disappoint. There was a lot going on and it all came together to what I thought was an excellent ending.
I can easily see just how much research the author put into this novel. Although it is a fictional story, there are still many things that can be learned here. It was really interesting reading how this story came about. I am really looking forward to reading more from Brad Parks.
I'd like to thank Dutton for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars!!!!
This was my first Brad Parks read and I REALLY enjoyed it! When I first read the description for this novel, I was thoroughly intrigued. I couldn’t wait to start reading.
The book opens with a well-dressed affluent couple walking into Shenandoah Valley Social Services. As they are about to enter the man turns to his wife and says “Remember, we’re perfect” and the wife replies “The perfect couple”. The Family Services specialist agrees with them. Families like theirs usually adopted privately or traveled abroad. But they want to foster and adopt locally. They are reminded that it could be months or years before a baby is available. But the couple seem unconcerned. They completed all of the necessary steps and now they are receiving their certificate. As they are leaving the woman wonders if this could have all been for nothing. The man tells her not to worry…
“ We’ll have a baby in no time”
Melanie Barrick knows firsthand what social services or “ the system ” is like. She grew up in it. But she survived her childhood and now has a great job, a wonderful husband, and best of all…she has Alex, her perfect son. But Melanie’s life turns into a nightmare when she attempts to pick up her son from daycare only to be told that he’s been taken away by social services. Melanie doesn’t understand how this could happen. But she gets no help from the babysitter. The only thing the woman will say to her…
“They told me all about you. I hope they get that child as far away from you as possible”
Melanie knows that occasionally horrible people will call in fake anonymous tips to social services. But who would do this to her family? Melanie is terrified because she knows that once a family is in the system, it is “ guilty until proven innocent ”. As Melanie pulls into her driveway at home, she tries to calm down. She reassures herself that they will sort this out, that everything will be okay…
THEN she sees that there is police tape stretched across her front door. And unfortunately, the hits just keep coming. Melanie learned a lot of things from her time as a ward of the state, but the one thing she’s always remembered…
“Disaster is always closer than you know”
WOW! You sure know how to tell a great story, Mr. Parks!!!
Fast-paced and gripping, this was an awesome read. After a really intense and intriguing start, it was impossible for me to put this novel down. I didn’t want to stop reading. I was anxious one minute and terrified the next… I could NOT wait to see how it all was going to play out.
This was a fast-paced psychological suspense with great characters and a story-line that didn’t disappoint. There was a lot going on and it all came together to what I thought was an excellent ending.
I can easily see just how much research the author put into this novel. Although it is a fictional story, there are still many things that can be learned here. It was really interesting reading how this story came about. I am really looking forward to reading more from Brad Parks.
I'd like to thank Dutton for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 28, 2018
3.5* (rounding ⬆️)
Melanie is running late picking up her infant son from the babysitter. And in her mind she’s playing out the worst-case scenario…OK, the babysitter fires me as a client and I find myself with no daycare! Great!
Melanie has no clue that this would be the smallest bump in her road.
She arrives at the sitter only to discover her son Alex is nowhere to be found. He’s been removed by Social Services! Now with the police squarely looking at Melanie, accusations start to fly and no one will listen.
“Disaster is always closer than you know “
Meanwhile, Amy the Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, is waist-deep in an investigation tracking down a serial rapist who’s been running free for years. Now her time will be divided, as she’s pulled into leading the prosecution against Melanie.
Brad Parks does a great job in weaving a tale between seemingly separate storylines to bring them together flawlessly. A fast passed (legal) thriller that will certainly hold your attention.
While I put some of the pieces together fairly early on, there were still enough twists still to come to keep me guessing and flipping the pages (tapping my kindle).
There are some issues of believability throughout but overall I really enjoyed the writing, storyline and characters! This is the second book I’ve read by Brad Park and looking forward to more!
A Traveling Sister read with Brenda Susanne and Diane!
For this review and our full Traveling Sister review please visit Brenda and Norma’s fabulous blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/
Melanie is running late picking up her infant son from the babysitter. And in her mind she’s playing out the worst-case scenario…OK, the babysitter fires me as a client and I find myself with no daycare! Great!
Melanie has no clue that this would be the smallest bump in her road.
She arrives at the sitter only to discover her son Alex is nowhere to be found. He’s been removed by Social Services! Now with the police squarely looking at Melanie, accusations start to fly and no one will listen.
“Disaster is always closer than you know “
Meanwhile, Amy the Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, is waist-deep in an investigation tracking down a serial rapist who’s been running free for years. Now her time will be divided, as she’s pulled into leading the prosecution against Melanie.
Brad Parks does a great job in weaving a tale between seemingly separate storylines to bring them together flawlessly. A fast passed (legal) thriller that will certainly hold your attention.
While I put some of the pieces together fairly early on, there were still enough twists still to come to keep me guessing and flipping the pages (tapping my kindle).
There are some issues of believability throughout but overall I really enjoyed the writing, storyline and characters! This is the second book I’ve read by Brad Park and looking forward to more!
A Traveling Sister read with Brenda Susanne and Diane!
For this review and our full Traveling Sister review please visit Brenda and Norma’s fabulous blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/
March 26, 2018
Almost against my will I was dragged to an acceptance level I never could have predicted. That so many things, bad things, could be visited on one person seemed less than credible. Then I though of a few people I knew who have had more than their share of misfortune, so who am I too say it can't happen. Melanie is finally happy, after she and her brother were removed from their abusive homes, they were raised in the foster system. Now though she is married to Ben, they have a three month old infant, Alex and she has a job that pays the bills. Until one day.............well that is the story.
Melanie, is a great character, she is a fighter, never gives up though at times she comes close. Who is doing this to her and why? How does she prove she is not involved in any of these scenarios? There is also a side thread, a gentleman rapist who whispers. The attorney trying to find this person is another strong female lead.
A sisters read that provided much fodder for discussion.
So even though I questioned a few things, in the end this entertaining, fast paced read, with some great characters, won me over. The ending though pat, was acceptable after everything that came before. I had read somewhere that a good author can make you forget and accept the unbelievable. While I didn't forget, Parks did make me sccept this story. Plus, he sure did put together an entertaing read that kept me guessing.
ARC from Netgalley.
Melanie, is a great character, she is a fighter, never gives up though at times she comes close. Who is doing this to her and why? How does she prove she is not involved in any of these scenarios? There is also a side thread, a gentleman rapist who whispers. The attorney trying to find this person is another strong female lead.
A sisters read that provided much fodder for discussion.
So even though I questioned a few things, in the end this entertaining, fast paced read, with some great characters, won me over. The ending though pat, was acceptable after everything that came before. I had read somewhere that a good author can make you forget and accept the unbelievable. While I didn't forget, Parks did make me sccept this story. Plus, he sure did put together an entertaing read that kept me guessing.
ARC from Netgalley.
March 27, 2018
3.5 Stars* (rounded up)
Have you ever heard that saying “Life, it can turn on a dime?” Well for Melanie Barrick, it’s true. One minute, she is happily married, with a new baby and a secure job and the next Melanie goes to pick up baby Alex from daycare only to find out he’s been taken away. Social Services picked him up earlier that day and grabbed him. No advanced warning, no nothing. Then, Melanie gets arrested for felony possession of hundreds of kilos of cocaine. Melanie professes innocence and appears blindsided by these turn of events and so does her husband. Yet, due to her past, Melanie knows better than anyone that disaster is always “Closer Than You Know.” Amy Kaye is the State’s Attorney assigned to Melanie’s case. She is tenacious and smart and she goes after criminals with a fierceness all her own. With Amy on Melanie's trail, no one is safe.
“Closer Than You Know” is a fast-paced domestic suspense that kept me fully engrossed. This novel begs the question, what would you do if everything was taken away from you? Let’s just say that I hope I never find out! Though I found parts of the storyline to be somewhat unrealistic, I really liked the characters and couldn’t help but root for Melanie throughout.
This was a Traveling Sister read with Brenda, Kaceey and Diane.
For full traveling sister group read reviews, please see Brenda and Norma’s blog: https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
Thank you Brad Parks, Penguin Publishing and First To Read for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and First to Read on 3.27.18.
Have you ever heard that saying “Life, it can turn on a dime?” Well for Melanie Barrick, it’s true. One minute, she is happily married, with a new baby and a secure job and the next Melanie goes to pick up baby Alex from daycare only to find out he’s been taken away. Social Services picked him up earlier that day and grabbed him. No advanced warning, no nothing. Then, Melanie gets arrested for felony possession of hundreds of kilos of cocaine. Melanie professes innocence and appears blindsided by these turn of events and so does her husband. Yet, due to her past, Melanie knows better than anyone that disaster is always “Closer Than You Know.” Amy Kaye is the State’s Attorney assigned to Melanie’s case. She is tenacious and smart and she goes after criminals with a fierceness all her own. With Amy on Melanie's trail, no one is safe.
“Closer Than You Know” is a fast-paced domestic suspense that kept me fully engrossed. This novel begs the question, what would you do if everything was taken away from you? Let’s just say that I hope I never find out! Though I found parts of the storyline to be somewhat unrealistic, I really liked the characters and couldn’t help but root for Melanie throughout.
This was a Traveling Sister read with Brenda, Kaceey and Diane.
For full traveling sister group read reviews, please see Brenda and Norma’s blog: https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
Thank you Brad Parks, Penguin Publishing and First To Read for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and First to Read on 3.27.18.
March 19, 2018
4.25 Stars → Folks, this book made me a nervous wreck!! The protagonist Melanie Barrick is faced with a nightmare scenario: She goes pick up her infant son from daycare, only to be told he was taken away by Social Services, and no one will tell her why or where he is. Honestly, I don't know how I would continue to function. Things get worse when she gets home to find the police have raided her home and found a HUGE dealer's amount of cocaine hidden in the ceiling. Defending herself seems hopeless, and thoughts of being reunited with her baby are all that keep her going.
CLOSER THAN YOU KNOW was a great read, fast-paced and exciting, and I will forgive the nervous knot it put in my stomach. It wasn't without some flaws though. There were a few things that just didn't make sense (like why only Melanie was blamed for the hidden cocaine and not her husband too). I did figure out the culprit about half-way through, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment. I was still flipping pages as fast as I could to see if/how Melanie got out of her predicament. I could easily sympathize with Melanie, and I liked the prosecuting attorney, Amy Kaye, too. Both were smart, tough, and relatable. I'm looking forward to more from Brad Parks.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Penguin's First to Read Program in exchange for an honest review. ♥
CLOSER THAN YOU KNOW was a great read, fast-paced and exciting, and I will forgive the nervous knot it put in my stomach. It wasn't without some flaws though. There were a few things that just didn't make sense (like why only Melanie was blamed for the hidden cocaine and not her husband too). I did figure out the culprit about half-way through, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment. I was still flipping pages as fast as I could to see if/how Melanie got out of her predicament. I could easily sympathize with Melanie, and I liked the prosecuting attorney, Amy Kaye, too. Both were smart, tough, and relatable. I'm looking forward to more from Brad Parks.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Penguin's First to Read Program in exchange for an honest review. ♥
April 18, 2018
Some people are just misery magnets......the bad stuff sticks to them like sap from a freshly cut Christmas tree. Ya just can't shake it off.
Melanie Barrick is playing beat-the-clock as she rushes to pick up her infant son from childcare. Extra charges or immediate ousting if you're past 6 o'clock. But the door is locked and the owner's voice slams a heavy load on her. Alex is with Social Services.
Melanie will now enter into the endless infinity of the Maze from Hell and I'm sure Dante will be giving us the guided tour. No amount of begging, pleading, or promising will detour the head of Social Services into returning Alex to his mother. This dark day is gonna get darker minute by minute. A Sheriff's patrol car is waiting in the driveway for Melanie. An elephant's weight in cocaine has been found in the ceiling in Alex's nursery including drug paraphernalia. Our girl looks to be serving time for serving up drugs as a dealer.
Swimming in a pit of vipers is not routine for Melanie. No way is she going to be hanging by the heels for something she didn't do. She's tough and she's focused. Survival is her mantra after experiencing a horrible rape two years ago and fighting her way through the fostercare system as a child. Melanie will engage the law and the law breakers in many. many unexpected ways.
Brad Parks is relentless in his presentation of a mother battling the system for her child and her good name. Seriously......you are going to be hyperventilating by the last page. You have to shake out all those little incredulous minions that usually reside in your head. Those little voices that try to persuade you to live in the Town of Reality. Parks is gonna be throwing tickets to Crazy Town at you instead. Believe me, I'm glad I was onboard for this wild, wild ride. Slide the bar in front of you and lock into this roller coaster where Melanie's car goes off the tracks every turn of the page. WooHoo!!!
Melanie Barrick is playing beat-the-clock as she rushes to pick up her infant son from childcare. Extra charges or immediate ousting if you're past 6 o'clock. But the door is locked and the owner's voice slams a heavy load on her. Alex is with Social Services.
Melanie will now enter into the endless infinity of the Maze from Hell and I'm sure Dante will be giving us the guided tour. No amount of begging, pleading, or promising will detour the head of Social Services into returning Alex to his mother. This dark day is gonna get darker minute by minute. A Sheriff's patrol car is waiting in the driveway for Melanie. An elephant's weight in cocaine has been found in the ceiling in Alex's nursery including drug paraphernalia. Our girl looks to be serving time for serving up drugs as a dealer.
Swimming in a pit of vipers is not routine for Melanie. No way is she going to be hanging by the heels for something she didn't do. She's tough and she's focused. Survival is her mantra after experiencing a horrible rape two years ago and fighting her way through the fostercare system as a child. Melanie will engage the law and the law breakers in many. many unexpected ways.
Brad Parks is relentless in his presentation of a mother battling the system for her child and her good name. Seriously......you are going to be hyperventilating by the last page. You have to shake out all those little incredulous minions that usually reside in your head. Those little voices that try to persuade you to live in the Town of Reality. Parks is gonna be throwing tickets to Crazy Town at you instead. Believe me, I'm glad I was onboard for this wild, wild ride. Slide the bar in front of you and lock into this roller coaster where Melanie's car goes off the tracks every turn of the page. WooHoo!!!
March 27, 2018
I was lost in the twisty, windy, rocky and muddy murky coulee with three of my Traveling Sisters reading Closer Than You Know hiding in the shelter of the trees from the disasters lurking closer than we think there are.
Closer Than You Know is a fast-paced, fun, entertaining domestic suspense thriller that had us starting off hiding in the coulee rolling our eyes in disbelief a bit from some disasters that we thought might be closer than we think with the story. A little high on the drama at times and we questioned a bit of the believability of the story. At times stalling the story for me and I started to look for a way out of the coulee, however, Brad Parks pulled me into the suspense to the story and I was back lost in the coulee with my TS turning the pages as fast as I could right to the end.
Brad Parks does a good job creating strong, interesting and complex female characters here with Melanie and Amy and we really liked their characters. We dodged a few disasters in the coulee as Brad Parks throws in a few twisty tornados at us here with Melanie. He brilliantly had us feeling empathy for Melanie and her situation that did keep the story moving forward for us.
Brad Parks does a good job rewarding us with the clever twists to this one that shocked some of us and left the rest of us feeling quite clever and pleased with ourselves for figuring some things out. The ending well some mixed feelings there from us but nothing that affected our enjoyment of this story. I recommend for thriller readers who like a little well drama to their thrillers.
Publication date March 6, 2018
Thank you, NetGalley, Penguin Group Dutton and Brad Parks for a copy to read and review.
Review is written and posted on our themed book blog Two Sisters Lost In A Coulee Reading.
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
Coulee: a term applied rather loosely to different landforms, all of which refer to a kind of valley.
Closer Than You Know is a fast-paced, fun, entertaining domestic suspense thriller that had us starting off hiding in the coulee rolling our eyes in disbelief a bit from some disasters that we thought might be closer than we think with the story. A little high on the drama at times and we questioned a bit of the believability of the story. At times stalling the story for me and I started to look for a way out of the coulee, however, Brad Parks pulled me into the suspense to the story and I was back lost in the coulee with my TS turning the pages as fast as I could right to the end.
Brad Parks does a good job creating strong, interesting and complex female characters here with Melanie and Amy and we really liked their characters. We dodged a few disasters in the coulee as Brad Parks throws in a few twisty tornados at us here with Melanie. He brilliantly had us feeling empathy for Melanie and her situation that did keep the story moving forward for us.
Brad Parks does a good job rewarding us with the clever twists to this one that shocked some of us and left the rest of us feeling quite clever and pleased with ourselves for figuring some things out. The ending well some mixed feelings there from us but nothing that affected our enjoyment of this story. I recommend for thriller readers who like a little well drama to their thrillers.
Publication date March 6, 2018
Thank you, NetGalley, Penguin Group Dutton and Brad Parks for a copy to read and review.
Review is written and posted on our themed book blog Two Sisters Lost In A Coulee Reading.
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
Coulee: a term applied rather loosely to different landforms, all of which refer to a kind of valley.
April 6, 2018
So many twists, you'll get dizzy! This roller coaster of a book is my first read by Brad Parks, but likely won't be my last. It definitely kept me reading... and reading... and tired the next day because I sacrificed some of my precious sleep. Many will have a hard time buying a lot of what happens in this one, but I'll give some advice: just go with it. You'll enjoy it more if you aren't questioning the probability of everything. It's a good story and a wild ride, a finely crafted domestic/legal thriller.
Melanie is not having a great day. Her worthless co-worker was late to relieve her yet again, leaving her rushing to pick up her baby from his sitter. Good childcare is hard to find, and she's already been pushing her luck with her tardiness. To her surprise, when she gets there she doesn't just get an admonishment: the woman who cares for her son won't even open the door for her. To scold her or even inform her she's no longer welcome as a client is one thing, but to keep her from getting her child? She demands him back, but it turns out he isn't there and hasn't been for hours. Her perfectly healthy, well-cared for, adored son has been taken away by social services: the same system that swallowed Melanie up as a child. Melanie and her husband Ben didn't grow up with much, but they are shining examples of educated, hard-working, law-abiding citizens. How could this happen?
Attorney Amy Kaye is assigned to Melanie's case, but they aren't complete strangers. She's been obsessed with investigating a local rapist who whispers to his victims and has spent years unidentified. One of the women this unknown man attacked was Melanie. While Amy continues to fight for justice for the victims, she may be putting Melanie herself behind bars if she can't prove her own innocence against a staggering amount of evidence.
I received a copy of this book from Penguin's First to Read program, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
Melanie is not having a great day. Her worthless co-worker was late to relieve her yet again, leaving her rushing to pick up her baby from his sitter. Good childcare is hard to find, and she's already been pushing her luck with her tardiness. To her surprise, when she gets there she doesn't just get an admonishment: the woman who cares for her son won't even open the door for her. To scold her or even inform her she's no longer welcome as a client is one thing, but to keep her from getting her child? She demands him back, but it turns out he isn't there and hasn't been for hours. Her perfectly healthy, well-cared for, adored son has been taken away by social services: the same system that swallowed Melanie up as a child. Melanie and her husband Ben didn't grow up with much, but they are shining examples of educated, hard-working, law-abiding citizens. How could this happen?
Attorney Amy Kaye is assigned to Melanie's case, but they aren't complete strangers. She's been obsessed with investigating a local rapist who whispers to his victims and has spent years unidentified. One of the women this unknown man attacked was Melanie. While Amy continues to fight for justice for the victims, she may be putting Melanie herself behind bars if she can't prove her own innocence against a staggering amount of evidence.
I received a copy of this book from Penguin's First to Read program, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
March 3, 2018
Part domestic suspend and part legal thriller, Closer Than You Know brought some of my worst fears as a parent to life. Imagine going to pick up your baby from the babysitter only to be told they were taken by Social Services earlier that day. Things get even worse when you go home and find your house has been raided and a substantial amount of cocaine has been found. To top it all off, you or your husband don’t do drugs and never would, this whole thing is a set up and you are utterly powerless. Your life is in shambles and you have no choices, no hope. How do you prove your innocence in a seemingly slam dunk case? It’s impossible and that’s what terrifies me.
I kept picturing myself in Melanie’s situation and couldn’t even imagine her fear and desperation. Parks did an amazing job at accurately portraying her emotional state, I could feel her pain and anguish, it broke my heart. The characterization is outstanding, besides Melanie her husband Ben is well developed and you also see things from the perspective of Amy, the lawyer working the case. I loved her and found her to be a sharp, astute woman bound by justice who’s willing to take chances in order to do what’s right.
This was relentlessly paced, there was always something going on, a new development full of twists and turns making it really hard for me to put down when real life was calling. There was enough legal excitement to keep things interesting but not so much that I was bored, this was always exciting and engaging and after two back to back amazing reads from Parks, I’ll be backing him as an author no matter what he writes next.
Closer Than You Know in three words: Complex, Thrilling and Compelling.
I kept picturing myself in Melanie’s situation and couldn’t even imagine her fear and desperation. Parks did an amazing job at accurately portraying her emotional state, I could feel her pain and anguish, it broke my heart. The characterization is outstanding, besides Melanie her husband Ben is well developed and you also see things from the perspective of Amy, the lawyer working the case. I loved her and found her to be a sharp, astute woman bound by justice who’s willing to take chances in order to do what’s right.
This was relentlessly paced, there was always something going on, a new development full of twists and turns making it really hard for me to put down when real life was calling. There was enough legal excitement to keep things interesting but not so much that I was bored, this was always exciting and engaging and after two back to back amazing reads from Parks, I’ll be backing him as an author no matter what he writes next.
Closer Than You Know in three words: Complex, Thrilling and Compelling.
February 4, 2019
“Closer Than You Know” is a fast paced thriller featuring two strong female characters seemingly pit against each other. Protagonist Melanie Barrack is a new mom who is struggling to provide her son the best life possible. Melanie was a “system kid”, one who was in the Social Service system where she learned how an unstable childhood could derail a child. Melanie is doing all she can to provide her baby the best childhood possible.
The story opens when half a kilo of cocaine is planted in her home and Social Services takes her son while she’s at work and he’s at daycare. This is Melanie’s nightmare, for she knows what happens to children in the system.
The District Attorney Amy Kaye is responsible for charging and convicting Melanie, but her heart is focused working on a serial rapist case. Amy starts seeing a thread that somehow connects Melanie and the rapist.
At the start of the novel, I thought it was obvious who planted the cocaine. And then I changed my mind and picked another perp. Author Brad Parks does a great job of working in plot twists and misdirecting the reader. It’s a fast read, one that I read in a cold winters day. I recommend it for a time when you want to read a fast, easy to read, satisfying thriller.
The story opens when half a kilo of cocaine is planted in her home and Social Services takes her son while she’s at work and he’s at daycare. This is Melanie’s nightmare, for she knows what happens to children in the system.
The District Attorney Amy Kaye is responsible for charging and convicting Melanie, but her heart is focused working on a serial rapist case. Amy starts seeing a thread that somehow connects Melanie and the rapist.
At the start of the novel, I thought it was obvious who planted the cocaine. And then I changed my mind and picked another perp. Author Brad Parks does a great job of working in plot twists and misdirecting the reader. It’s a fast read, one that I read in a cold winters day. I recommend it for a time when you want to read a fast, easy to read, satisfying thriller.
March 6, 2018
I found Brad Parks last year with his book, Say Nothing. I LOVED IT. His second book, Closer Than You Know, is also a winner in my book.
Let's talk about the characters for a moment. There's a LOT going on in this book with Melanie's past, what's happening to her now, how they intersect and how the prosecuting attorney comes into play. I'm not a mother so I can't imagine how hard it would be to have your child ripped away from you with no warning whatsoever. I mean, Melanie's already been through enough - can't this woman get a break? Then to have drug charges put on top of that while still dealing with an aftermath of a rape from a while ago... WOAH. I really would've loved to have learned more about her husband - his part was too minor for the character he was given, but that's just my opinion. I really enjoyed the lawyers - both defending and prosecuting and while we learned quite a bit about Amy, I would've loved to have seen more of Mr. Honeywell - I have a very special place in my heart for him.
Ok, so let's get to the book. It's fast paced, easy to read and kept me glued to the pages all day today. I'll admit I had it all figured out pretty early on. Did this take away from the joy of the read? NOPE. Not at all. I feel like you need to suspend a bit of reality about the happenings in these story lines... but that really didn't make a difference to me. I mean, it's FICTION after all, right?
Brad Parks has a fan in me and I will be on the look out for his upcoming work. If you're looking for a part domestic suspense with a dash of legal thriller mixed in, I think it's safe to say you'll enjoy this read. Put this one on your TBR.
Thanks so much to Dutton Books for this copy! :)
Let's talk about the characters for a moment. There's a LOT going on in this book with Melanie's past, what's happening to her now, how they intersect and how the prosecuting attorney comes into play. I'm not a mother so I can't imagine how hard it would be to have your child ripped away from you with no warning whatsoever. I mean, Melanie's already been through enough - can't this woman get a break? Then to have drug charges put on top of that while still dealing with an aftermath of a rape from a while ago... WOAH. I really would've loved to have learned more about her husband - his part was too minor for the character he was given, but that's just my opinion. I really enjoyed the lawyers - both defending and prosecuting and while we learned quite a bit about Amy, I would've loved to have seen more of Mr. Honeywell - I have a very special place in my heart for him.
Ok, so let's get to the book. It's fast paced, easy to read and kept me glued to the pages all day today. I'll admit I had it all figured out pretty early on. Did this take away from the joy of the read? NOPE. Not at all. I feel like you need to suspend a bit of reality about the happenings in these story lines... but that really didn't make a difference to me. I mean, it's FICTION after all, right?
Brad Parks has a fan in me and I will be on the look out for his upcoming work. If you're looking for a part domestic suspense with a dash of legal thriller mixed in, I think it's safe to say you'll enjoy this read. Put this one on your TBR.
Thanks so much to Dutton Books for this copy! :)
April 4, 2018
This is a great book. Once you start, you won't be able to put it down.
(What did you think I was going to say? That it sucked?)
(What did you think I was going to say? That it sucked?)
April 6, 2018
Melanie Barrick races home from work late to pick up her son from childcare worried that her childminder will quit. She finds social services have taken her child. She arrives home to find her house ransacked by the sheriff's department and is arrested for possession of half a kilo of cocaine which she has never seen.
This one is a true page-turner. Though I guessed early who the villain was I found the story line very compelling. A quick read because you won't be able to put it down. I'd place this one right on the shelf next to Harlan Coben's books.
This one is a true page-turner. Though I guessed early who the villain was I found the story line very compelling. A quick read because you won't be able to put it down. I'd place this one right on the shelf next to Harlan Coben's books.
March 26, 2019
Brad Parks’ compulsively readable standalone crime thriller is nearly flawless. The author takes risks by making his protagonist a woman, a young white mother married to a black man. While he might make a misstep or two in how a woman might react to rape or a first-time mother might react to being wrongly accused of several crimes and then having her child taken by social services, he has a strong enough case that we keep reading to see how he will explain it all.
Technically, the book works well. We move between points of view easily, from accused, to police, to perp, to innocent victim. Our own opinions are in flux as we get pushed and pulled with every new development in the case against the mother. She is a victim several times over, and we can explain her reticence to spill her guts and tell all she knows to her attorney at first by considering her foster-care background.
The whole builds up to a situation in which good people can get hurt by other well-meaning people because everyone is being manipulated by normal human perceptions and reactions. Preet Bharara, former Chief Prosecutor for the Southern District of New York, recently wrote in his memoir that he learned in his time working at one of the most visible courts in the land that “[a]nyone is capable of anything.”
I read this book at first because the author is the son of one of my brother’s best friends, but I am pleased to be able to report that the skill, talent, and sheer dare-devil chutzpah of the author is on full display. Brad Parks takes risks but is able to pull off the heist.
Technically, the book works well. We move between points of view easily, from accused, to police, to perp, to innocent victim. Our own opinions are in flux as we get pushed and pulled with every new development in the case against the mother. She is a victim several times over, and we can explain her reticence to spill her guts and tell all she knows to her attorney at first by considering her foster-care background.
The whole builds up to a situation in which good people can get hurt by other well-meaning people because everyone is being manipulated by normal human perceptions and reactions. Preet Bharara, former Chief Prosecutor for the Southern District of New York, recently wrote in his memoir that he learned in his time working at one of the most visible courts in the land that “[a]nyone is capable of anything.”
I read this book at first because the author is the son of one of my brother’s best friends, but I am pleased to be able to report that the skill, talent, and sheer dare-devil chutzpah of the author is on full display. Brad Parks takes risks but is able to pull off the heist.
April 9, 2018
I enjoyed Say Nothing much more than this new novel.
June 20, 2025
A stash of cocaine, along with drug paraphernalia, was found in Melanie Barrick's home. Virginia's social services took away her three-month-old son, and Melanie was arrested. Melanie knows she has been framed by someone, but who would do such a thing?
A second story line involves a prosecuting attorney, Amy Kaye, who is preparing the case against Melanie. Amy is also trying to identify a serial rapist before he strikes again. The two story lines intersect in this fast-paced book that is a mixture of psychological suspense and legal thriller. There are lots of twists and turns along the way.
A second story line involves a prosecuting attorney, Amy Kaye, who is preparing the case against Melanie. Amy is also trying to identify a serial rapist before he strikes again. The two story lines intersect in this fast-paced book that is a mixture of psychological suspense and legal thriller. There are lots of twists and turns along the way.
May 4, 2018
Loved this book!
March 4, 2018
Imagine a Lifetime movie starring Tori Spelling and you pretty much got the plot of this book. I was quite disappointed as this author writes a hysterically funny, laugh out loud series featuring reporter Carter Ross. I know authors like to try new genres but this book was not funny nor was it intended to be. I get it. There was one really funny bit when the protagonist, Melanie Barrick, is sitting in jail reading a Carter Ross book five times. That was clever.
Barrick is having a terrible day. Her child is taken from her by Social Services. She is arrested for drug distribution of a massive amount of cocaine, then trying to sell her baby on the black market and then murder. She can not catch a break. As a product of the foster care system, she views authority with great mistrust and with good reason apparently.
As the story unwinds, a serial rapist known as The Whisperer is also being sought. You will never guess who had a run in with him. Can this girl catch a break? No, not on Lifetime. Oops I mean this mean this book.
The book has one of the most preposterous endings I have read in a long time but it will look good in the movie. This book is good for those who like Lifetime movies. For the rest of us, I would read Parks' Carter Ross series and have a great time.
Thank you Net Galley for a copy of this book.
Barrick is having a terrible day. Her child is taken from her by Social Services. She is arrested for drug distribution of a massive amount of cocaine, then trying to sell her baby on the black market and then murder. She can not catch a break. As a product of the foster care system, she views authority with great mistrust and with good reason apparently.
As the story unwinds, a serial rapist known as The Whisperer is also being sought. You will never guess who had a run in with him. Can this girl catch a break? No, not on Lifetime. Oops I mean this mean this book.
The book has one of the most preposterous endings I have read in a long time but it will look good in the movie. This book is good for those who like Lifetime movies. For the rest of us, I would read Parks' Carter Ross series and have a great time.
Thank you Net Galley for a copy of this book.
November 24, 2018
4.5 stars. As you read this you have to remind yourself to breathe as the pace is relentless. Just read it!
September 22, 2018
A shocking and twisted conspiracy against a mother and her son. This book is definitely any Mother’s worst nightmare. Parks delivered a suspenseful, clever plot that was definitely filled with its share of smoke and mirrors! (I loved that!) This book was a very entertaining read! Thrilling police procedural and court room drama...this book had it all and even left me wanting more!!
4-entertaining stars!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4-entertaining stars!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 18, 2018
CLOSER THAN YOU KNOW by Brad Parks is a cautionary tale of not only the ugliness and devastation that some people harbor, but it’s also a tale about the love a mother has for her child. I loved this novel, with its domestic suspense plot line that is as impressive as it is horrifying, but I also really enjoyed the legal thriller aspect of this one too. It was not only twisty and fun, but flawlessly executed. Parks does a fantastic job of jumping between storylines until they are not only connected, but minute details mentioned throughout the novel that fester in the back of your head are fully present and adding even more jaw-dropping suspense. This one not only starts off with a bang, but reels the reader in and doesn’t hold back with plot twists, terrifyingly accurate characters, and suspense that just does not give up.
I not only enjoyed the story to this one, but Parks writing is truly fantastic. I am not a parent, I do not work for the government, and I certainly don’t know the ins and outs of the legal system. But with Parks writing, everything is laid out there so efficiently that when you read something, you are ready to take on the case. When writing characters, I found myself smirking and cringing. Someone would do something and I would say “Oh, so-and-so isn’t going to like that.” or make a remark and say “Typical…”. It’s like you know these characters and have been around them enough to know the good and the bad. I especially liked that the two main characters that carried this story were female and how fantastic Parks did in writing them. These women were unlike most heroines in thrillers as they were more realistic to me and really took control of the situations around them…and they were badass women worthy of applause.
I will admit, while I do enjoy domestic suspense, I was a little hesitant on this one at first as I have never read much into legal thrillers. The vocabulary is a little foreign to me an I was nervous I wound’t catch on, but once I began to read this one and got invested in the storyline, I couldn’t help but continue and soon I found myself completely addicted. So, if you’re hesitant as well, don’t let it hold you back. This is a fast-paced emotional thriller that not only delivers, but has an ending that is bone-chilling.
Special thanks to Dutton for providing me with this copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 13, 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
When you read a book about a dog -- from Marley & Me to Where the Red Fern Grows -- you've got a pretty good idea what's going to happen near the end. Same goes for a Nora Ephron movie. Or a Horror flick. But you still read or watch them, and you cry, or laugh and "awww", or jump in your seat when you're supposed to. Even on repeat reads/viewings. But when done right, those things just work. Similarly, think of a roller coaster -- you may stand outside the fence watching the thing go around the track while standing in line (some lines give you plenty of opportunity to study), and armed with that study, as well as the your own eyes, you know that track is going to drop from in front of you in a couple of seconds -- or the coaster is about to hit the loop -- that doesn't stop your stomach from lurching when it does.
Why do I bother with that? It's a thought that kept running through the back of my mind while reading Closer Than You Know. By the time I hit the 10% mark, if you'd made me write down what I expected to happen -- the reveals, the twists, the story beats, etc. -- I'd have gotten an A. I'm not saying I'm smarter than the average bear or anything, anyone who's read/watched a handful of thrillers would've been able to, too. And it worked. It absolutely worked. How Parks pulls it off, I do not know, but he does. He's just that good.
And all the stuff that I didn't guess? Oh, man, it was just so sweet when Parks delivered it, there were a couple of scenes that just left me stunned. And, I should rush to note, the way Parks made a couple of reveals that I'd seen coming from the start were so well done, it was like I hadn't called the shot.
In his previous stand-alone, Parks said that he wanted to write about the thing that scares him the most -- his children being kidnapped. Closer Than You Know taps into a very similar fear -- Child Protective Services taking your child from you, leaving you to the mercies of the machine where you're presumed guilty. This time instead of "the bad guys," faceless criminals, taking someone's kids, this time it's the forces of justice, of law and order, taking the child -- they're celebrated for it, they're doing it "for the best interests of the child."
What's worse is that no one will tell Melanie Barrick why her infant son had been taken from his daycare. Melanie spent most of her childhood in the Foster Child system, and most of that time in the worse situations that system has to offer. This isn't the stuff of nightmares for Melanie, mostly because I don't think she has enough imagination for her subconscious to cook this up. And then she's arrested for possession of cocaine and paraphernalia suggesting distribution -- a felony that will guarantee she's about to lose her little Alex for good.
Melanie is a "good person" -- she's one of the success stories that we don't see as often as we'd like from the Foster Child system. She worked to put herself through college; has a great, supportive husband; a lousy job (but with benefits) -- but one that will help her family get somewhere; and is a devoted, doting, loving mother. The kind of person we all want to think we're surrounded by, but fear we probably aren't.
From this point on, it's a cyclone for despair as every part of her life -- her job, her husband, her brother, her friends, her finances, her sense of privacy and security -- is affected, is under siege during this ordeal. Can Melanie maintain her hope, maintain her innocence, maintain her conviction that she'll hold her baby boy again?
In charge of prosecuting "Coke Mom" (the press is always so quick with these nicknames), is Amy Kaye. Amy Kaye could easily be the protagonist in any legal thriller, she's just the kind of character you want to read in that kind of thing. She's smart, dedicated and driven -- at the moment, she's primarily concerned with a serial rape investigation that she's doing pretty much on her own. Amy starts to make progress for the first time in years when she's put on this prosecution (largely for political reasons) -- which she's more than willing to do, but she hates to take away time and attention from the rape investigation. What really makes this difficult for Kaye is that Melanie is one of the most recent victims in this investigation.
So basically, things are not going well for these two women. There are occasional moments where there is hope, where there is a hint of humor, or life for them and it's just enough to get you to let your guard down before the gears turn again and life gets bad. Melanie seems to be a living embodiment of Murphy's Law -- things just never go her way in this book. As she notes herself, addicts talk about hitting rock bottom -- she isn't like them, she keeps finding new bottoms. It's during this part of the book, where the gears keep grinding away, where the Justice System seems most like a machine, and least like a method for determining (not presupposing) guilt, that things will really get to you. That stomach lurching I mentioned earlier? That image came from somewhere. It feels so real, it feels like this is something that actually happened to someone that Parks spent hours interviewing. I don't know how you read these parts of the book and not get demoralized -- but unable to put the book down, because you just have to, have to know what happens next.
As I've said before, I've been a Brad Parks fan since the first time I read his debut novel -- and I miss Carter Ross, the star of his series. The bad thing for me reading Say Nothing and Closer Than You Know is that these are so good, he's going to spend years doing books like this and I don't know if he'll be able to get back to Carter. On the other hand, I can't complain really if he's putting out reading that's this compelling. Yeah, I said the book was largely predictable -- and you'll likely find it the same. But you will be wrong about some things and you won't know how he'll show you that you're right. Think of a NASCAR race -- we all know that it's basically a series of guys going fast and turning left -- but it's how they go fast and turn left that makes all the difference. Parks delivers the goods -- the word riveting doesn't do this book justice. It's compelling, riveting, gripping, exciting, and will make you rethink so much of what you may believe of the Criminal Justice and Child Protective systems. You will laugh, you will be stunned (in good and bad ways), you will give up hope for this poor mother.
And you will hate when the book ends -- as much as you breathe a sigh of relief as you know you have some degree of closure.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Dutton Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
When you read a book about a dog -- from Marley & Me to Where the Red Fern Grows -- you've got a pretty good idea what's going to happen near the end. Same goes for a Nora Ephron movie. Or a Horror flick. But you still read or watch them, and you cry, or laugh and "awww", or jump in your seat when you're supposed to. Even on repeat reads/viewings. But when done right, those things just work. Similarly, think of a roller coaster -- you may stand outside the fence watching the thing go around the track while standing in line (some lines give you plenty of opportunity to study), and armed with that study, as well as the your own eyes, you know that track is going to drop from in front of you in a couple of seconds -- or the coaster is about to hit the loop -- that doesn't stop your stomach from lurching when it does.
Why do I bother with that? It's a thought that kept running through the back of my mind while reading Closer Than You Know. By the time I hit the 10% mark, if you'd made me write down what I expected to happen -- the reveals, the twists, the story beats, etc. -- I'd have gotten an A. I'm not saying I'm smarter than the average bear or anything, anyone who's read/watched a handful of thrillers would've been able to, too. And it worked. It absolutely worked. How Parks pulls it off, I do not know, but he does. He's just that good.
And all the stuff that I didn't guess? Oh, man, it was just so sweet when Parks delivered it, there were a couple of scenes that just left me stunned. And, I should rush to note, the way Parks made a couple of reveals that I'd seen coming from the start were so well done, it was like I hadn't called the shot.
In his previous stand-alone, Parks said that he wanted to write about the thing that scares him the most -- his children being kidnapped. Closer Than You Know taps into a very similar fear -- Child Protective Services taking your child from you, leaving you to the mercies of the machine where you're presumed guilty. This time instead of "the bad guys," faceless criminals, taking someone's kids, this time it's the forces of justice, of law and order, taking the child -- they're celebrated for it, they're doing it "for the best interests of the child."
What's worse is that no one will tell Melanie Barrick why her infant son had been taken from his daycare. Melanie spent most of her childhood in the Foster Child system, and most of that time in the worse situations that system has to offer. This isn't the stuff of nightmares for Melanie, mostly because I don't think she has enough imagination for her subconscious to cook this up. And then she's arrested for possession of cocaine and paraphernalia suggesting distribution -- a felony that will guarantee she's about to lose her little Alex for good.
Melanie is a "good person" -- she's one of the success stories that we don't see as often as we'd like from the Foster Child system. She worked to put herself through college; has a great, supportive husband; a lousy job (but with benefits) -- but one that will help her family get somewhere; and is a devoted, doting, loving mother. The kind of person we all want to think we're surrounded by, but fear we probably aren't.
From this point on, it's a cyclone for despair as every part of her life -- her job, her husband, her brother, her friends, her finances, her sense of privacy and security -- is affected, is under siege during this ordeal. Can Melanie maintain her hope, maintain her innocence, maintain her conviction that she'll hold her baby boy again?
In charge of prosecuting "Coke Mom" (the press is always so quick with these nicknames), is Amy Kaye. Amy Kaye could easily be the protagonist in any legal thriller, she's just the kind of character you want to read in that kind of thing. She's smart, dedicated and driven -- at the moment, she's primarily concerned with a serial rape investigation that she's doing pretty much on her own. Amy starts to make progress for the first time in years when she's put on this prosecution (largely for political reasons) -- which she's more than willing to do, but she hates to take away time and attention from the rape investigation. What really makes this difficult for Kaye is that Melanie is one of the most recent victims in this investigation.
So basically, things are not going well for these two women. There are occasional moments where there is hope, where there is a hint of humor, or life for them and it's just enough to get you to let your guard down before the gears turn again and life gets bad. Melanie seems to be a living embodiment of Murphy's Law -- things just never go her way in this book. As she notes herself, addicts talk about hitting rock bottom -- she isn't like them, she keeps finding new bottoms. It's during this part of the book, where the gears keep grinding away, where the Justice System seems most like a machine, and least like a method for determining (not presupposing) guilt, that things will really get to you. That stomach lurching I mentioned earlier? That image came from somewhere. It feels so real, it feels like this is something that actually happened to someone that Parks spent hours interviewing. I don't know how you read these parts of the book and not get demoralized -- but unable to put the book down, because you just have to, have to know what happens next.
As I've said before, I've been a Brad Parks fan since the first time I read his debut novel -- and I miss Carter Ross, the star of his series. The bad thing for me reading Say Nothing and Closer Than You Know is that these are so good, he's going to spend years doing books like this and I don't know if he'll be able to get back to Carter. On the other hand, I can't complain really if he's putting out reading that's this compelling. Yeah, I said the book was largely predictable -- and you'll likely find it the same. But you will be wrong about some things and you won't know how he'll show you that you're right. Think of a NASCAR race -- we all know that it's basically a series of guys going fast and turning left -- but it's how they go fast and turn left that makes all the difference. Parks delivers the goods -- the word riveting doesn't do this book justice. It's compelling, riveting, gripping, exciting, and will make you rethink so much of what you may believe of the Criminal Justice and Child Protective systems. You will laugh, you will be stunned (in good and bad ways), you will give up hope for this poor mother.
And you will hate when the book ends -- as much as you breathe a sigh of relief as you know you have some degree of closure.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Dutton Books via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
June 27, 2018
Fantastic!!
January 15, 2021
Setting: Shenandoah Valley, USA. Melanie Barrick seems to have it all - a loving husband, her own home, a steady job and - best of all - her baby son, Alex. But a troubled past has led Melanie to believe that 'disaster is closer than you know' - and it all comes home to roost one day when she returns from work to find that Alex has been taken out of his daycare by Child Services and the Police have raided her house where they found a substantial quantity of cocaine. Now, not only is she without Alex, Melanie finds herself fighting off criminal charges relating to the drugs and trying to get custody of Alex back. Meanwhile, local deputy county prosecutor Amy Kaye is doing all the work that her boss Aaron Dansby won't do (which means pretty much everything!) - prosecuting Melanie over the drugs seizure whilst hunting for a serial rapist targeting the women of the county. Strangely, one of the victims of the rapist is Melanie Barrick and her son Alex is the result of that rape....
I simply could not put this book down and, even though I was working yesterday, still managed to read over 350 pages! The action is gripping and you really wonder how Melanie is going to get out from under everything when she is clearly innocent and also who is behind this vendetta against her and why - I had my suspicions a couple of times, one of which proved to be wrong but the other not, but there was still the concern that she wouldn't be able to prove her innocence.
This is the first book I have read by this author and, on this showing, certainly won't be the last. I had not really heard of Brad Parks before - just stumbled on this one in a charity shop - but have now bought two more of his on Kindle so looking forward to them. My wife also read this one in double-quick time and I would certainly recommend it - 9.5/10.
I simply could not put this book down and, even though I was working yesterday, still managed to read over 350 pages! The action is gripping and you really wonder how Melanie is going to get out from under everything when she is clearly innocent and also who is behind this vendetta against her and why - I had my suspicions a couple of times, one of which proved to be wrong but the other not, but there was still the concern that she wouldn't be able to prove her innocence.
This is the first book I have read by this author and, on this showing, certainly won't be the last. I had not really heard of Brad Parks before - just stumbled on this one in a charity shop - but have now bought two more of his on Kindle so looking forward to them. My wife also read this one in double-quick time and I would certainly recommend it - 9.5/10.
November 11, 2018
Excellent, suspenseful, unputdownable, well plotted. Best of all, when you get to the end, all the highways and byways, make plausible sense.
March 20, 2018
Visit the locations in the book
Brad Parks is one neat writer. The action rattles along at break neck speed, there’s a lot to think about, a lot to worry about with the characters and a lot to take in and remember as you just know one small thing is going to come and bite you on the bum if you forget it.
It starts like a car screeching away from the scene of a crime, which is ironic as that’s kind of what happens. A mother gets home to find out her child has been taken in to care. Care home is shut. And it’s all because the police have found drugs in her house – which she didn’t put there.
Ok so the sequences of events which follows is unbelievable in many parts but I didn’t mind as the writing was so vivid and whipped me along with it. It was exciting to read and I wanted to know what was going to happen! That opening scene stays with you and that’s very effective throughout. Brad peppers the novel with red herrings, twists and goodness knows what else but it all works. As does Mr Honeywell, the lawyer in the novel – I did like him!
So PARK yourself down and get reading this for a very enjoyable ride!
March 2, 2018
I guess I just don’t sympathize with mothers because the main character annoyed me for the most part. I did enjoy the female attorney character a lot (probably the only reason I finished the book) Overall, the plot was completely unrealistic and predictable. I kept waiting for that big twist but alas it did not come.
March 16, 2018
I recently discovered this author, reading “Say Nothing” first, and now “Closer Than You Know” and he is two for two in my book.
If you enjoy reading thrillers with a family in crisis, and the inevitable legal drama that follows, Brad Parks is for you!
When Melanie goes to pick up her son Alex from daycare, she is told that he has been removed by social services, and she cannot imagine why.
It gets worse from there as she finds out that drugs have been found in the nursery of her house, and she cannot even have visits with her son, who has been placed with a foster family, until she proves her innocence.
But who is framing her, and why??
Assistant Commonwealth attorney Amy Kaye is prosecuting and despite some doubts she has about the case, her boss is pushing for a conviction, as he is up for re-election.
You will root for Melanie and feel nervous that neither Amy, nor the court appointed lawyer, Mr. Honeywell will care enough to figure out if she is guilty or innocent...the writing is that good.
I only wish there had been an epilogue where Melanie could have one last conversation with each of the unlikely characters who had rallied around her in the end....
If you enjoy reading thrillers with a family in crisis, and the inevitable legal drama that follows, Brad Parks is for you!
When Melanie goes to pick up her son Alex from daycare, she is told that he has been removed by social services, and she cannot imagine why.
It gets worse from there as she finds out that drugs have been found in the nursery of her house, and she cannot even have visits with her son, who has been placed with a foster family, until she proves her innocence.
But who is framing her, and why??
Assistant Commonwealth attorney Amy Kaye is prosecuting and despite some doubts she has about the case, her boss is pushing for a conviction, as he is up for re-election.
You will root for Melanie and feel nervous that neither Amy, nor the court appointed lawyer, Mr. Honeywell will care enough to figure out if she is guilty or innocent...the writing is that good.
I only wish there had been an epilogue where Melanie could have one last conversation with each of the unlikely characters who had rallied around her in the end....
March 23, 2018
The airport racks are filled with easy-reading novels with wide appeal. Closer Than You Know definitely has a place on those racks and was clearly designed to appeal to a large audience. It's a conspiracy story where the lead character finds her whose world turned upside-down, her child taken from her, her life torn apart, orange jumpsuits, and a Byzantine Kafka-esque maze where it's almost impossible to prove her innocence. Nothing special though. Going against the herd here in finding that it felt empty and soulless to me without realistic characters or situations.
March 30, 2018
Easy, fun, crime fluff read. Pick this one up after you've gone through your TBR.
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