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Madison Attalee #1
Moi, Témoin
« Ils disent que je suis une meurtrière. J'ai plaidé coupable. Mais la vérité, c'est que je n'ai rien fait... » Il y a six ans, Kate Reynolds a été retrouvée tenant dans ses bras le corps de sa meilleure amie, couverte de sang, le poing serré sur l'arme du crime. Elle a depuis purgé sa peine de prison et retrouvé sa liberté. Décidée à laver son nom, elle engage une détective privée, Maddison Attallee, qui n'est autre que l'officier de police qui l'a découverte sur la scène de crime. Convaincue de la culpabilité de Kate, Maddison accepte l'affaire à reculons. Elle s'apercevra vite que les circonstances du meurtre sont loin d'être claires, et plonge dans le dossier à bras le corps. Mais quelqu'un est déterminé à ce que le passé reste là où il est. Quelqu'un prêt à tout pour que la vérité n'éclate pas, quel qu'en soit le prix. NJ Mackay signe un premier roman captivant, alternant la narration entre le personnage principal, la détective Maddison Attallee, et trois autres protagonistes. On y assiste à la naissance dune héroïne audacieuse, attachante et surprenante.
« Un formidable thriller et une héroïne extraordinaire. Maddison jure, fume, aime le rock, elle n'est ni névrotique ni apathique. Tout à fait mon genre de femme ! » CJ TUDOR, auteur de L'homme de craie
« Un formidable thriller et une héroïne extraordinaire. Maddison jure, fume, aime le rock, elle n'est ni névrotique ni apathique. Tout à fait mon genre de femme ! » CJ TUDOR, auteur de L'homme de craie
367 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2018
75 people are currently reading
1043 people want to read
About the author
Niki Mackay
11 books84 followersI am a writer and a bookworm. I studied Performing Arts at the BRIT School. It turned out I wasn’t very good at acting but quite liked writing scripts. I went on to take a BA (Hons) in English Literature and Drama. I later won a full scholarship for an MA in Journalism.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 122 reviews
July 13, 2018
Niki Mackay has penned a thrilling psychological thriller that I just could not put down. Set in Kingston Upon Thames, the core of this novel is inhabited by the most dysfunctional of families and flawed characters. At 18 years old, the notorious Kate Reynolds was found holding the stabbed and bloody body of her best friend, Naomi Andrews, at a party. She was drunk and drugged up to her eyeballs, completely out of it, and damning diary entries in which she poured out her hatred of Naomi, along with her confession of guilt had her serving a six year prison sentence for manslaughter. Now released, she has returned to Kingston where she is shunned by her family who completely disowned her, and not wanted by a local community, that includes Anthea, the traumatised and still griefstricken mother of Naomi. Kate is not clear what happened that night, her memories are hazy at best and she thinks there is a possibility that she might be innocent, and hires disgraced ex-cop Madison Attallee, now a PI, to look into her case.
Madison's investigation of the night stirs a veritable hornet's nest as a host of characters do anything to prevent the truth coming out. Kate is fragile and vulnerable, and the obstacles she encounters, including hostile media coverage, has her clinging to her long term therapist, Dean, who goes out of his way to support her. Kate's sister, Martha, is in a psychiatric facility having suffered from long term mental health issues. Her volatile brother, Marcus, is now in an apparently picture perfect marriage with Claudia, who bears an uncanny resemblance to their mother, Ruth, who committed suicide. Her father, James refuses to see Kate, as does her much older ex-boyfriend, Oliver, who cheated on her with Naomi. Madison has good reason to remember Kate, it was her first encounter with murder as a police officer, as she begins to dig, it soon becomes apparent that Naomi whilst popular, was spoilt, arrogant, manipulative and hated by so many. The original police investigation emerges to be far from satisfactory, not following up other persons of interest to the case. Madison's search for the truth uncovers dark murky secrets, lies and deception, where nothing is as it seems.
This is an impressive beginning in what promises to be a stellar series. Madison is an emotionally damaged woman with a disturbing childhood and an unstable, unreliable mother. She is now divorced from her husband, Rob, who has custody of their daughter, Molly. For obvious reasons, Madison struggled to be a wife and mother, avoiding developing a relationship with Molly. Her past drinking problems ensured that her contact with Molly is extremely limited, but she is turning her life around so that she can begin to connect with Molly, but she really needs those cigarettes. Mackay gives us characters that are gripping, and impressive plotting that had me desperately turning the pages to get to the bottom of this twisted mystery. Highly recommended! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC
Madison's investigation of the night stirs a veritable hornet's nest as a host of characters do anything to prevent the truth coming out. Kate is fragile and vulnerable, and the obstacles she encounters, including hostile media coverage, has her clinging to her long term therapist, Dean, who goes out of his way to support her. Kate's sister, Martha, is in a psychiatric facility having suffered from long term mental health issues. Her volatile brother, Marcus, is now in an apparently picture perfect marriage with Claudia, who bears an uncanny resemblance to their mother, Ruth, who committed suicide. Her father, James refuses to see Kate, as does her much older ex-boyfriend, Oliver, who cheated on her with Naomi. Madison has good reason to remember Kate, it was her first encounter with murder as a police officer, as she begins to dig, it soon becomes apparent that Naomi whilst popular, was spoilt, arrogant, manipulative and hated by so many. The original police investigation emerges to be far from satisfactory, not following up other persons of interest to the case. Madison's search for the truth uncovers dark murky secrets, lies and deception, where nothing is as it seems.
This is an impressive beginning in what promises to be a stellar series. Madison is an emotionally damaged woman with a disturbing childhood and an unstable, unreliable mother. She is now divorced from her husband, Rob, who has custody of their daughter, Molly. For obvious reasons, Madison struggled to be a wife and mother, avoiding developing a relationship with Molly. Her past drinking problems ensured that her contact with Molly is extremely limited, but she is turning her life around so that she can begin to connect with Molly, but she really needs those cigarettes. Mackay gives us characters that are gripping, and impressive plotting that had me desperately turning the pages to get to the bottom of this twisted mystery. Highly recommended! Many thanks to Orion for an ARC
April 30, 2018
EXCERPT: There was a girl in the middle of the floor. She was the one bleeding. But that day she managed not to be the main event. Not for me anyway. Kate Reynolds was the star. Half smiling at me as I walked in, her hands gripped into the other girl's dead flesh, the knife grazing her bare knee as she rocked back and forth. She was gibbering. Whispering.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: They say I'm a murderer.
Six years ago, Kate Reynolds was found holding the body of her best friend; covered in blood, and clutching the knife that killed her.
I plead guilty.
Kate has been in prison ever since, but now her sentence is up. She is being released.
But the truth is, I didn't do it.
There's only one person who can help: Private Investigator Madison Attalee, the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
But there's someone out there who doesn't want Kate digging up the past. Someone who is willing to keep the truth buried at any cost.
MY THOUGHTS: I am so pleased that this is the first book of a new series. Madison Attalee is one interesting character! And this appears to be author Niki Mackay's debut book! Definitely an author to follow if I, Witness is any indication.
'The whispers of the past have a habit of steering through the generations no matter how much we try and bury them.' This is a quote from I, Witness and the basis of the book. Niki Mackay has created a family of mostly mentally unstable characters and woven a compelling story of secrets, lies, deceit, manipulation and violence around them and inserts a P.I. with her own demons to try and unravel the events leading up to Kate’s arrest for the murder of her best friend.
The writing flows seamlessly and the story is told from multiple points of view, something that doesn't always work for me but, in this case, is brilliantly executed. The dialogue is natural and flowing, the twists and turns unexpected but viable.
There's hardly a topic that Mackay doesn't touch on in this gripping page turner - mental illness, domestic violence, alcoholism, adultery to name a few - but she does it with great finesse and works it all neatly into a twisty tale of jaw-dropping revelations that leaves me wanting more.
4.5 shooting stars for a book I read in less than 24 hours.
Thank you to Hachette Australia via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of I, Witness by Niki Mackay 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/...
ABOUT THIS BOOK: They say I'm a murderer.
Six years ago, Kate Reynolds was found holding the body of her best friend; covered in blood, and clutching the knife that killed her.
I plead guilty.
Kate has been in prison ever since, but now her sentence is up. She is being released.
But the truth is, I didn't do it.
There's only one person who can help: Private Investigator Madison Attalee, the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
But there's someone out there who doesn't want Kate digging up the past. Someone who is willing to keep the truth buried at any cost.
MY THOUGHTS: I am so pleased that this is the first book of a new series. Madison Attalee is one interesting character! And this appears to be author Niki Mackay's debut book! Definitely an author to follow if I, Witness is any indication.
'The whispers of the past have a habit of steering through the generations no matter how much we try and bury them.' This is a quote from I, Witness and the basis of the book. Niki Mackay has created a family of mostly mentally unstable characters and woven a compelling story of secrets, lies, deceit, manipulation and violence around them and inserts a P.I. with her own demons to try and unravel the events leading up to Kate’s arrest for the murder of her best friend.
The writing flows seamlessly and the story is told from multiple points of view, something that doesn't always work for me but, in this case, is brilliantly executed. The dialogue is natural and flowing, the twists and turns unexpected but viable.
There's hardly a topic that Mackay doesn't touch on in this gripping page turner - mental illness, domestic violence, alcoholism, adultery to name a few - but she does it with great finesse and works it all neatly into a twisty tale of jaw-dropping revelations that leaves me wanting more.
4.5 shooting stars for a book I read in less than 24 hours.
Thank you to Hachette Australia via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of I, Witness by Niki Mackay 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/...
April 20, 2018
I Witness was an absolutely gripping psychological thriller with some great characters and that brilliant page turning addictive quality that I love to find in a book.
Kate Reynolds, convicted of brutally stabbing and killing her best friend has served her time. She believes she may be innocent, so hires Madison to see if the absolute truth can be found. But her family and others hide dark dark secrets and sometimes perhaps it’s best to leave well enough alone..
We get several viewpoints and lots of nuanced twists and turns in this one – several emotive themes run throughout and it is cleverly plotted to maximum effect. Kate is a divisive character but far from being the most divisive – we have her sister Martha, her distanced Father and her volatile brother to contend with also. Madison is not without her issues but I found it refreshing that these were realistic and had a path to resolution as well as the mystery did.
Overall a really good story, nicely twisted, beautifully written. I’m pleased to see that we will be meeting Madison again.
Recommended.
Kate Reynolds, convicted of brutally stabbing and killing her best friend has served her time. She believes she may be innocent, so hires Madison to see if the absolute truth can be found. But her family and others hide dark dark secrets and sometimes perhaps it’s best to leave well enough alone..
We get several viewpoints and lots of nuanced twists and turns in this one – several emotive themes run throughout and it is cleverly plotted to maximum effect. Kate is a divisive character but far from being the most divisive – we have her sister Martha, her distanced Father and her volatile brother to contend with also. Madison is not without her issues but I found it refreshing that these were realistic and had a path to resolution as well as the mystery did.
Overall a really good story, nicely twisted, beautifully written. I’m pleased to see that we will be meeting Madison again.
Recommended.
March 29, 2018
I picked this book up in desperation really as the two books I had read before it were both books I couldn’t get into and did not finish. The blurb for I, Witness sounded right up my street so I plucked it from my TBR pile hoping to be transported into a gripping psychological thriller and thankfully within the first two pages I knew I had made the correct choice!
That chilling prologue remained at the front of my mind as the book started to come to life, leading me to look deeply into each character as they were introduced, wondering what was their connection (if any!) to what had happened before. Kate Reynolds has just come out of prison for a murder that she has now decided she did not commit. Her vague memories of the night of her crime have convinced her of her own innocence but she’s understandably cautious. Returning to the town she lived in and the scene of her crime, she decides to ask for help from the first police office who had appeared at the crime scene that day. This was where the PI Madison Attalee was introduced to the reader, as she now runs a private investigation agency and for me, this was when the book got very interesting indeed!!
I absolutely adored the character of Madison Attalee! This emotionally damaged, chain-smoking, metalhead with her own dysfunctional private life, was the perfect protagonist to investigate what had happened to Kate six years ago and the circumstances surrounding the murder. It was refreshing to meet such a relatable, but not always likeable, heroine who had more reason than Kate herself to hit the self destruct button but who managed to maintain her professionalism at all times-well, to a certain degree anyway!
I enjoyed the way the chapters were told by the multiple narrators in short sharp bursts, giving differing viewpoints as the clues were lightly sprinkled over the pages. I have to say that I did work out the “who” but not the “why”, although that didn’t lesson my enjoyment one little bit of this darkly intense thriller. It was devious, deliciously devourable and easily read in one compelling session as I chased the riveting plot through each character viewpoint. And even though it was all wrapped up in a perfectly pretty little bow at the end, it still left me desperate for more! The authors stylish delivery and intriguing main character meant that I would be thrilled to read another of Niki Mackays books about Madison Attalee in the future. Top marks from me!
That chilling prologue remained at the front of my mind as the book started to come to life, leading me to look deeply into each character as they were introduced, wondering what was their connection (if any!) to what had happened before. Kate Reynolds has just come out of prison for a murder that she has now decided she did not commit. Her vague memories of the night of her crime have convinced her of her own innocence but she’s understandably cautious. Returning to the town she lived in and the scene of her crime, she decides to ask for help from the first police office who had appeared at the crime scene that day. This was where the PI Madison Attalee was introduced to the reader, as she now runs a private investigation agency and for me, this was when the book got very interesting indeed!!
I absolutely adored the character of Madison Attalee! This emotionally damaged, chain-smoking, metalhead with her own dysfunctional private life, was the perfect protagonist to investigate what had happened to Kate six years ago and the circumstances surrounding the murder. It was refreshing to meet such a relatable, but not always likeable, heroine who had more reason than Kate herself to hit the self destruct button but who managed to maintain her professionalism at all times-well, to a certain degree anyway!
I enjoyed the way the chapters were told by the multiple narrators in short sharp bursts, giving differing viewpoints as the clues were lightly sprinkled over the pages. I have to say that I did work out the “who” but not the “why”, although that didn’t lesson my enjoyment one little bit of this darkly intense thriller. It was devious, deliciously devourable and easily read in one compelling session as I chased the riveting plot through each character viewpoint. And even though it was all wrapped up in a perfectly pretty little bow at the end, it still left me desperate for more! The authors stylish delivery and intriguing main character meant that I would be thrilled to read another of Niki Mackays books about Madison Attalee in the future. Top marks from me!
August 30, 2017
The murder of Naomi Andrews was an open and shut case. Her best friend, Kate Reynolds, confessed, after being found covered in blood, holding both the body and the murder weapon. She served six years, not long enough according to some, and as if her release wasn’t enough to set tongues wagging, she’s now claiming she’s innocent. Madison Attalee was first officer on the scene six years ago. She’s a private investigator now, with a troubled past of her own, and Kate turns to her of all people, to help prove her innocence. Madison is far from convinced, but agrees to take the case. Not everyone is happy about her poking around, and some are willing to go to great lengths to make sure what happened that night stays buried in the past.
One of the first things that makes this stand out for me, was the pacing. Short, punchy chapters, mainly from Kate and Madison’s points of view, whisk you along at a rate of knots that kept me saying “just one more”, more times than I care to remember. Madison in particular, has such a distinctive voice and presence about her, that you’re right there in the thick of it with her from the first few chapters. Niki MacKay has an almost effortless quality to her writing, and it makes for a story that flows beautifully from start to finish. Definitely up there with my favourite reads of the year so far, and I’ll be sure to keep tabs on whatever case Madison Attalee picks up next. One to stick at the top of your TBR list for April 2018.
One of the first things that makes this stand out for me, was the pacing. Short, punchy chapters, mainly from Kate and Madison’s points of view, whisk you along at a rate of knots that kept me saying “just one more”, more times than I care to remember. Madison in particular, has such a distinctive voice and presence about her, that you’re right there in the thick of it with her from the first few chapters. Niki MacKay has an almost effortless quality to her writing, and it makes for a story that flows beautifully from start to finish. Definitely up there with my favourite reads of the year so far, and I’ll be sure to keep tabs on whatever case Madison Attalee picks up next. One to stick at the top of your TBR list for April 2018.
June 1, 2018
My View:
Gripping, choc full of twists and surprises, every time you think you have it worked out -think again-you don’t.
A flawed (read that as very flawed but good hearted, empathetic, dedicated… ) female Private Investigator ex- cop is a wonderful protagonist that quickly gains the readers respect and admiration. Madison Attalee drives the pace of this drama – fast, frantic and deadly.
There are so many twists, most totally unexpected. And just a little pricking of your social conscience - enough said, read and let me know what you think.
What an amazing year on the crime fiction front - I have read so many exceptional reads, and have been surprised by how many, like this, are debut novels. Amazing! What talent!
I am looking forward to the next episode in Madison Attalee’s life.
Gripping, choc full of twists and surprises, every time you think you have it worked out -think again-you don’t.
A flawed (read that as very flawed but good hearted, empathetic, dedicated… ) female Private Investigator ex- cop is a wonderful protagonist that quickly gains the readers respect and admiration. Madison Attalee drives the pace of this drama – fast, frantic and deadly.
There are so many twists, most totally unexpected. And just a little pricking of your social conscience - enough said, read and let me know what you think.
What an amazing year on the crime fiction front - I have read so many exceptional reads, and have been surprised by how many, like this, are debut novels. Amazing! What talent!
I am looking forward to the next episode in Madison Attalee’s life.
February 11, 2021
Just because someone confesses to a murder, does that mean that this person committed the crime?
Six years ago, Kate Reynolds was found clutching a knife and holding the bloody body of her dead best friend. She is arrested, pleads guilty to the crime, and serves her jail sentence.
While in prison, Kate begins to have second thoughts about her murder confession. Maybe she isn't really guilty. Her memory of that night was hazy and now she is really not sure about what happened. And who does she hire to further investigate the evidence against her? Private Investigator Madison Attallee, the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
This book was good, not great. The character development was strong and the storyline was fast-paced. Overall, however, I had believability issues with the plot. If I was unable to recall all of the details about the night my best friend was murdered, I would never willingly confess to the crime.
I listened to this book's audio version. I always love it when a book has multiple narrators and this book's narrators were superb.
This was my first Niki Mackay book and I will definitely be looking forward to this author's future titles.
Six years ago, Kate Reynolds was found clutching a knife and holding the bloody body of her dead best friend. She is arrested, pleads guilty to the crime, and serves her jail sentence.
While in prison, Kate begins to have second thoughts about her murder confession. Maybe she isn't really guilty. Her memory of that night was hazy and now she is really not sure about what happened. And who does she hire to further investigate the evidence against her? Private Investigator Madison Attallee, the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
This book was good, not great. The character development was strong and the storyline was fast-paced. Overall, however, I had believability issues with the plot. If I was unable to recall all of the details about the night my best friend was murdered, I would never willingly confess to the crime.
I listened to this book's audio version. I always love it when a book has multiple narrators and this book's narrators were superb.
This was my first Niki Mackay book and I will definitely be looking forward to this author's future titles.
July 23, 2018
Six years ago, Kate Reynolds was sent to prison for the murder of her best friend, Naomi. Despite pleading guilty, Kate says she’s innocent. She returns to her home town, the scene of the crime, and enlists the help of private investigator, Madison Attalee, to find out what really happened that night.
Boy, oh boy, I do so enjoy stories involving dysfunctional families and this one really takes the cake. With family secrets galore and skeletons in various closets, I quickly found myself caught up in a web of deceit and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for a number of characters and all the things they went through.
I took to Madison Attalee right away. Recently divorced and having lost custody of her daughter, everything is pretty much a struggle. But despite the immense load of baggage she’s carrying around on her shoulders, she’s quite a no-nonsense character with a potty mouth, who made me chuckle quite a bit with her self-depricating and dry sense of humour.
The theme of motherhood and bad parenting is woven throughout the story. I sometimes found myself getting increasingly frustrated with some of the characters’ behaviour concerning their children. Ah, the longstanding nature versus nurture debate. That’ll never get old.
"I don’t believe in evil people as such. I don’t think it’s born, which means it must be created."
There were quite a few perspectives in this story and part of me feels maybe things would have benefited a bit more from having a few less. That is not to say it wasn’t executed well or broke the flow in any way. It’s more of a personal preference. Nevertheless, all these chapters give an incredible insight into how pretty much everyone is affected by the choices that were made in the past.
I, Witness is incredibly suspenseful and intriguing. The chilling prologue pulled me in right away. It took me a while to figure out how to fit the pieces of the puzzle together but it all led to the most satisfying conclusion. I thoroughly enjoyed this first instalment in the Madison Attalee series and I can’t wait to see what kind of case will land in her lap next.
Boy, oh boy, I do so enjoy stories involving dysfunctional families and this one really takes the cake. With family secrets galore and skeletons in various closets, I quickly found myself caught up in a web of deceit and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for a number of characters and all the things they went through.
I took to Madison Attalee right away. Recently divorced and having lost custody of her daughter, everything is pretty much a struggle. But despite the immense load of baggage she’s carrying around on her shoulders, she’s quite a no-nonsense character with a potty mouth, who made me chuckle quite a bit with her self-depricating and dry sense of humour.
The theme of motherhood and bad parenting is woven throughout the story. I sometimes found myself getting increasingly frustrated with some of the characters’ behaviour concerning their children. Ah, the longstanding nature versus nurture debate. That’ll never get old.
"I don’t believe in evil people as such. I don’t think it’s born, which means it must be created."
There were quite a few perspectives in this story and part of me feels maybe things would have benefited a bit more from having a few less. That is not to say it wasn’t executed well or broke the flow in any way. It’s more of a personal preference. Nevertheless, all these chapters give an incredible insight into how pretty much everyone is affected by the choices that were made in the past.
I, Witness is incredibly suspenseful and intriguing. The chilling prologue pulled me in right away. It took me a while to figure out how to fit the pieces of the puzzle together but it all led to the most satisfying conclusion. I thoroughly enjoyed this first instalment in the Madison Attalee series and I can’t wait to see what kind of case will land in her lap next.
April 4, 2021
Wow!! Meet Madison Attalee - swearing , smoking , rock music loving ex detective turned private investigator.
Madison has set up a business as a PI after leaving the force and is approached by Kate Reynolds who has just served 6 years for killing her best friend that she admitted to. Now she’s served her time she wants madison to investigate as she thinks she’s innocent!
Brilliant twisty turny story line with plenty to get your teeth into.
First in a series , I’m off to start the next one
Madison has set up a business as a PI after leaving the force and is approached by Kate Reynolds who has just served 6 years for killing her best friend that she admitted to. Now she’s served her time she wants madison to investigate as she thinks she’s innocent!
Brilliant twisty turny story line with plenty to get your teeth into.
First in a series , I’m off to start the next one
April 16, 2018
This is a fast paced book which is full of twists and turns.
The murder of Naomi Andrews shocked everyone especially as her best friend, Kate Reynolds was found covered in blood, holding her body.
Kate was sentenced to twelve years, but served six years, and after her release she wants to prove her innocence, despite pleading guilty.
Madison Attalee was the Detective at the time and is now a private investigator. Kate turns to her to help her find out who killed Naomi.
Madison agrees to take the case but not everyone in the family and close to the victim is happy about the new investigation - and some are willing to go to great lengths to make sure what happened that night stays buried in the past.
This is a really good read and will have you hooked after the first few chapters.
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The murder of Naomi Andrews shocked everyone especially as her best friend, Kate Reynolds was found covered in blood, holding her body.
Kate was sentenced to twelve years, but served six years, and after her release she wants to prove her innocence, despite pleading guilty.
Madison Attalee was the Detective at the time and is now a private investigator. Kate turns to her to help her find out who killed Naomi.
Madison agrees to take the case but not everyone in the family and close to the victim is happy about the new investigation - and some are willing to go to great lengths to make sure what happened that night stays buried in the past.
This is a really good read and will have you hooked after the first few chapters.
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
June 28, 2018
I wanted to love this one, but sadly I couldn’t get into it! Solid writing, and a great premise, but it left me feeling a little flat! I figured out the stuff early on, but kept reading to see how it was all going to unfold! If you are new to the genre, enjoy domestic noir etc, then I would definitely recommend it!
September 11, 2018
If you like brisk, pacy thrillers with well developed characters, this is the book for you! I thought it was going to be a legal thriller (the title, the cover), but instead it's an excellently spun crime thriller, so don't let the packaging turn you off.
This was my favorite crime book I've read all year, and a lot of that is down to how much I liked the characters, all of whom I felt I could literally meet walking down the street.
Six years ago Kate was found holding her best friend Naomi's body, covered in blood. She's now served her time in prison and is out to prove her innocence. So she hires Madison, the hard-bitten, crusty PI, who was the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
With short, punchy chapter, a brisk pace, and realistic characters, this was an excellent crime novel I finished in just two days. I highly recommend.
This was my favorite crime book I've read all year, and a lot of that is down to how much I liked the characters, all of whom I felt I could literally meet walking down the street.
Six years ago Kate was found holding her best friend Naomi's body, covered in blood. She's now served her time in prison and is out to prove her innocence. So she hires Madison, the hard-bitten, crusty PI, who was the first officer on the scene all those years ago.
With short, punchy chapter, a brisk pace, and realistic characters, this was an excellent crime novel I finished in just two days. I highly recommend.
April 16, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Orion Publishing Group for an advance copy of I, Witness, the first novel to feature Kingston based PI Madison Attallee.
Madison is approached by Kate Reynolds who has recently been released after serving six years for manslaughter in the stabbing death of her best friend Naomi Andrews. She pled guilty as she couldn't remember the events and accepted what she was told. Now she thinks she found Naomi dead and wants Madison to exonerate her.
Once I got over the highly dubious premise of Kate pleading guilty to something she didn't do and the police's sketchy investigation I quite enjoyed I, Witness. It is well paced and, in the second half, has plenty of action to hold the interest although I half guessed the perpetrator early on so the big twist was not as much as a surprise to me as it might be to the unsuspecting reader.
This is one of those novels where just about every character is dysfunctional in some way or another and it gets wearing. The first half of the novel is necessarily slow in terms of the investigation and action as it centres on establishing the characters, their histories and thought processes. I found it difficult to identify with any of them, not just because of their troubled characters but also because the novel happily embraces the shifting narrative approach with each chapter having a different point of view. It is impossible to get close to a character when you spend so little time with them.
I came to like Madison Attallee who is rough, tough and honest in her approach to both crime solving and life. Like the other characters in the novel she has had a difficult life and apparently has an addictive personality - having kicked the booze she smokes like a chimney.
I, Witness is a solid psychological thriller which held my attention throughout.
Madison is approached by Kate Reynolds who has recently been released after serving six years for manslaughter in the stabbing death of her best friend Naomi Andrews. She pled guilty as she couldn't remember the events and accepted what she was told. Now she thinks she found Naomi dead and wants Madison to exonerate her.
Once I got over the highly dubious premise of Kate pleading guilty to something she didn't do and the police's sketchy investigation I quite enjoyed I, Witness. It is well paced and, in the second half, has plenty of action to hold the interest although I half guessed the perpetrator early on so the big twist was not as much as a surprise to me as it might be to the unsuspecting reader.
This is one of those novels where just about every character is dysfunctional in some way or another and it gets wearing. The first half of the novel is necessarily slow in terms of the investigation and action as it centres on establishing the characters, their histories and thought processes. I found it difficult to identify with any of them, not just because of their troubled characters but also because the novel happily embraces the shifting narrative approach with each chapter having a different point of view. It is impossible to get close to a character when you spend so little time with them.
I came to like Madison Attallee who is rough, tough and honest in her approach to both crime solving and life. Like the other characters in the novel she has had a difficult life and apparently has an addictive personality - having kicked the booze she smokes like a chimney.
I, Witness is a solid psychological thriller which held my attention throughout.
May 21, 2018
I adored this book from the minute I started reading it. For some unknown and inexplicable reason I am particularly drawn to emotionally damaged female characters with a dry sense of humour and a self-depreciating narrative and Madison Attalee certainly ticks those boxes. An ex police officer who left the force before she was sacked and now runs a small private detective agency with a limited client base and dwindling funds.
This story is told through alternating characters and personally I found each chapter absolutely gripping. With 4 main characters narrating the story we also meet Kate Reynolds, the young woman released from prison after serving 6 years for the murder of her best friend and now determined to seek the truth and find out who did kill Naomi employs Madison Attalee to help her. Claudia Reynolds, the sister in law of Kate also narrates her story and Anthea Andrews, the mother of the murder victim tells us her version of events.
If you enjoy your books with dysfunctional families, clever twists, fast paced and gripping chapters, fascinating characters and an original and brilliant female Private Investigator - then pick up this book next.
This story is told through alternating characters and personally I found each chapter absolutely gripping. With 4 main characters narrating the story we also meet Kate Reynolds, the young woman released from prison after serving 6 years for the murder of her best friend and now determined to seek the truth and find out who did kill Naomi employs Madison Attalee to help her. Claudia Reynolds, the sister in law of Kate also narrates her story and Anthea Andrews, the mother of the murder victim tells us her version of events.
If you enjoy your books with dysfunctional families, clever twists, fast paced and gripping chapters, fascinating characters and an original and brilliant female Private Investigator - then pick up this book next.
March 15, 2018
After 6 years of serving time it's time for Kate to find out the truth. Did she do it? Did she really kill her best friend? To find out she'll need help from PI Madison. Will the truth help her Kate, or just make her life worse? I Witness is a refreshing crime-thriller that'll keep you guessing...will you see it coming, because I didn't.
July 10, 2018
A bit slow at the beginning & at some points seemed like it had a lot of unnecessary information or it was confusing. A few twists I didn’t see coming with a nice ending.
December 30, 2017
Niki Mackay’s debut thriller plays a little fast and loose with the English legal system and its slightly soapy premise and the killer was too obvious but there’s some strong writing on show here - notably through the portrayal of a domestic abuse storyline - and I found both Madison and Kate to be interesting characters who each has their own demons such that I would be interested in reading a sequel.
December 28, 2017
Really enjoyed this punchy, pacy thriller with its sharp characterisation and confident plotting!
July 28, 2018
See my full review on my website www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
April 20, 2018
All of my reviews can be found at: https://hookedfrompageoneblog.wordpre...
I, Witness is an intriguing start to a new series by Niki Mackay featuring, former police detective, now turned private investigator, Madison Attallee. Niki’s writing certainly has that addictive quality to it; the plot, the characters and the mysteries in their lives kept me turning the pages, I really enjoyed reading this one.
Having recently set up her own private detective agency after leaving the metropolitan police, Madison is shocked when (recently released from prison), Kate Reynolds, seeks her help to prove her innocence. Six years earlier, Kate was charged with manslaughter after killing her friend, but Kate doesn’t believe she was responsible for her friend’s death. Madison is sceptical about taking on the case and of what she will be able to achieve for Kate, but her interest is certainly piqued. And as Madison begins to look again at the investigation, startling revelations begin to emerge which could shine a whole new light on the case and which could prove Kate’s innocence.
I haven’t read many books which feature private investigators, and for me, this is what made this book feel fresh. As well as hearing from Madison’s voice, we also hear from three other characters: Kate Reynolds, Claudia Reynolds (Kate’s sister-in-law) and Anthea Andrews, the mother of Kate’s friend who was killed. From the moment Kate asks for Madison’s help, I became completely invested in the mystery and in Kate’s search for answers, I was rooting for her to find them. But why would Kate suddenly think she was innocent, when six years ago she pleaded guilty? This was the main question which drove the plot forward.
An interesting spin which Niki put on Madison’s character was that she had been involved in the original enquiry that lead to Kate’s arrest. Most private investigators don’t have a personal connection to the case, and often they are employed to lend fresh eyes; it did make me wonder why Kate had chosen an officer who she would have previously had dealings with and who may not be very sympathetic towards her. I really liked the relationship that Madison has with one of her former colleagues and I hope that this is explored further as the series progresses.
This was a really enjoyable read with some exciting twists and turns which take you into slippery and murky depths as family secrets are exposed. I am pleased to see that this is the start of a new series featuring Madison and I’m looking forward to seeing where Niki will take her next.
I, Witness is an intriguing start to a new series by Niki Mackay featuring, former police detective, now turned private investigator, Madison Attallee. Niki’s writing certainly has that addictive quality to it; the plot, the characters and the mysteries in their lives kept me turning the pages, I really enjoyed reading this one.
Having recently set up her own private detective agency after leaving the metropolitan police, Madison is shocked when (recently released from prison), Kate Reynolds, seeks her help to prove her innocence. Six years earlier, Kate was charged with manslaughter after killing her friend, but Kate doesn’t believe she was responsible for her friend’s death. Madison is sceptical about taking on the case and of what she will be able to achieve for Kate, but her interest is certainly piqued. And as Madison begins to look again at the investigation, startling revelations begin to emerge which could shine a whole new light on the case and which could prove Kate’s innocence.
I haven’t read many books which feature private investigators, and for me, this is what made this book feel fresh. As well as hearing from Madison’s voice, we also hear from three other characters: Kate Reynolds, Claudia Reynolds (Kate’s sister-in-law) and Anthea Andrews, the mother of Kate’s friend who was killed. From the moment Kate asks for Madison’s help, I became completely invested in the mystery and in Kate’s search for answers, I was rooting for her to find them. But why would Kate suddenly think she was innocent, when six years ago she pleaded guilty? This was the main question which drove the plot forward.
An interesting spin which Niki put on Madison’s character was that she had been involved in the original enquiry that lead to Kate’s arrest. Most private investigators don’t have a personal connection to the case, and often they are employed to lend fresh eyes; it did make me wonder why Kate had chosen an officer who she would have previously had dealings with and who may not be very sympathetic towards her. I really liked the relationship that Madison has with one of her former colleagues and I hope that this is explored further as the series progresses.
This was a really enjoyable read with some exciting twists and turns which take you into slippery and murky depths as family secrets are exposed. I am pleased to see that this is the start of a new series featuring Madison and I’m looking forward to seeing where Niki will take her next.
August 12, 2018
One of those books that makes you want to go to bed early to get stuck into reading it for as long as possible. Really enjoyed it. Taut plotting. Great characterisation. No sentimental sloppiness. Good arc to climax and denouement. I've requested the audiobook from my local library for my partner to share in the story. I've requested the purchase by the library of Ms Mackay's next book, 'I, Suspect', due out in 2019.
April 24, 2018
I loved this one! I read it in one go and was captivated from beginning to end.
The book is written with 4 different point of views and each one of them feels so realistic. I specifically really like Madison as a character, I really hope we will get to read more about her.
If you like a good thriller with very well developed characters, this is the book for you!
The book is written with 4 different point of views and each one of them feels so realistic. I specifically really like Madison as a character, I really hope we will get to read more about her.
If you like a good thriller with very well developed characters, this is the book for you!
October 31, 2018
Absolutely loved this one
September 3, 2019
Good story
August 31, 2021
Très bon thriller qui nous fait être certain du coupable et qu'au final, cela prend une tournure inattendue!
Un vrai page turner, lu en 24h. J'ai accroché dès les premières pages. On veut en savoir plus, on veut connaître la vérité. Je ne suis pas déçue de la fin!
Un vrai page turner, lu en 24h. J'ai accroché dès les premières pages. On veut en savoir plus, on veut connaître la vérité. Je ne suis pas déçue de la fin!
January 4, 2023
I have never read anything by this author before but I absolutely loved it!
Very fast paced and lots of twists and turns which is exactly how I like my books.
I surprised myself my guessing the ending and having suspicions quite early on, but it didn't spoil it - just made me read quicker to get to the ending!
Can't wait to read the 2nd in the series.
Would highly recommend - you won't be disappointed.
Very fast paced and lots of twists and turns which is exactly how I like my books.
I surprised myself my guessing the ending and having suspicions quite early on, but it didn't spoil it - just made me read quicker to get to the ending!
Can't wait to read the 2nd in the series.
Would highly recommend - you won't be disappointed.
March 31, 2019
Absolutely brilliant read - a psychological crime thriller on par with the likes of Lee Child! Every time you feel you have solved the mystery, the plot twists again leaving you on the edge of your seat until the final page! An outstanding book, can't fault it!
October 10, 2019
Really enjoyed this! Really enjoyed Kate Reynolds and Claudia -and Madison of course - On to the next Madison Attallee -
November 12, 2019
3.5 stars
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