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The Surrogate
‘You know that feeling? When you want something so badly, you almost feel you’d kill for it?’
Be careful what you wish for…
Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat’s perfect picture of happily-ever-after, she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family…
Be careful what you wish for…
Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat’s perfect picture of happily-ever-after, she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family…
354 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,140 reviews
November 13, 2017
The desperation to be a mother. What lengths would someone go to fulfill that dream?
Kat and her husband Nick are ready to complete their family with a baby. Unable to conceive, they turn to the obvious alternative...adoption.
When Kat runs into her childhood friend Lisa, she shares the difficulties they’ve been struggling with to start a family. Without any hesitation, Lisa offers a solution to their problem...surrogacy. With Lisa as the surrogate. This was Kat’s closest friend who she’d been estranged from for the past 10 years. Surely it’s just written in the stars that they would run into each other? There couldn’t possibly be another reason that Lisa just showed up with this generous offer after all this time?
“We always get what we deserve”
Wow, this thriller was as twisty as a corkscrew. I couldn’t imagine how all the pieces were going to come together. Yet the last 20% was an explosion of mayhem, and the hits just kept coming one after another like aftershocks in an earthquake.
Louise Jensen delivers an incredible psychological thriller that will keep you reading late into the night (it sure did for me). Since thrillers are my go-to genre, I like to think I can usually guess most twists along the way. Well...not this time! In fact, I don’t think I got a single one correct in this whole book! Wow! That may be a first for me!
A traveling sister read with Brenda, Norma, Lindsay, Susanne, Holly, Mary Beth, Jennifer and Berit.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen
For this review and our full traveling sister review please visit Brenda and Norma's Fantastic Traveling Sister Book Blog http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
Kat and her husband Nick are ready to complete their family with a baby. Unable to conceive, they turn to the obvious alternative...adoption.
When Kat runs into her childhood friend Lisa, she shares the difficulties they’ve been struggling with to start a family. Without any hesitation, Lisa offers a solution to their problem...surrogacy. With Lisa as the surrogate. This was Kat’s closest friend who she’d been estranged from for the past 10 years. Surely it’s just written in the stars that they would run into each other? There couldn’t possibly be another reason that Lisa just showed up with this generous offer after all this time?
“We always get what we deserve”
Wow, this thriller was as twisty as a corkscrew. I couldn’t imagine how all the pieces were going to come together. Yet the last 20% was an explosion of mayhem, and the hits just kept coming one after another like aftershocks in an earthquake.
Louise Jensen delivers an incredible psychological thriller that will keep you reading late into the night (it sure did for me). Since thrillers are my go-to genre, I like to think I can usually guess most twists along the way. Well...not this time! In fact, I don’t think I got a single one correct in this whole book! Wow! That may be a first for me!
A traveling sister read with Brenda, Norma, Lindsay, Susanne, Holly, Mary Beth, Jennifer and Berit.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen
For this review and our full traveling sister review please visit Brenda and Norma's Fantastic Traveling Sister Book Blog http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
November 10, 2017
So many unlikable characters, and I didn't know who I could trust. This one was a big surprise and I am not going to give anything away because if you decide to read this, I want you to be surprised too. I didn't like any of the characters and usually when I don't like one character, I usually don't like the book. I ended up loving this book. There were so many secrets and that was what keep me turning the pages. The suspense kept on building and building. I was so intrigued!
So many secrets and so many twists, kept me on the edge of my seat. Each secret had a twist to it. The twists kept on coming and didn't stop. One twist after another. It was like a roller coaster ride. I love books that are twisty like this.
I was a bad detective in this one. I didn't figure this out at all. I didn't trust Lisa at all. This one was such a big surprise for me and found it unpredictable. I did find this one a little far-fetched, because I thought Kat wanted a baby so badly that she just wasn't thinking right to trust Lisa. But I think that is what made this such a fun entertaining discussion with all of the secrets. I really enjoyed reading this sister read with The Traveling Sister's.
November 10, 2017
3.5 Stars* (rounded down)
Louise Jensen’s “The Surrogate” is a campy mystery that keeps your attention throughout.
Kat is desperate for a baby. She and her husband Nick have tried everything - unfortunately Kat is unable to conceive. After suffering heartache after heartache, Kat and Nick try to adopt, only to fail again - then something crazy happens. Kat runs into her ex-best friend, Lisa and Lisa offers to become their surrogate. The catch? Lisa and Kat have a past. Something bad happened between them 10 years ago, something that made it so that they severed all ties with each other. Something so bad that Kat has never forgiven herself for it and has even kept her past a secret from her husband. As for Lisa? She has secrets of her own.. and is quite shady herself. As the story progresses it’s hard to tell if Lisa can be trusted.
Kat’s life soon gets out of control. Kat begins to think that everyone in her life, including Nick, his best friend Richard, Lisa and her next door neighbor Claire, are against her and we can’t help but think the same thing. Kat’s antics are wild and completely far-fetched - as is the story itself.
There were many-a-time that I rolled my eyes and couldn’t wait to get to the end. I thanked goodness that it was a quick, easy read. The ending was nutso, if I do say so myself. Completely unexpected, and that my friends is why we read mysteries: for the element of surprise, and “The Surrogate’s” ending, took me by surprise and then some. If you aren’t shocked, then you are one heck of a detective!
This was a Traveling Sister Read. It included with Brenda, Norma, Kaceey, Lindsay, Jennifer, Holly, Berit and Mary Beth. We all had a lot of fun reading it together. It was my first read with Berit and Mary Beth. Welcome to the sisterhood ladies, it was a pleasure!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon, Twitter and Facebook on 11.10.17.
Louise Jensen’s “The Surrogate” is a campy mystery that keeps your attention throughout.
Kat is desperate for a baby. She and her husband Nick have tried everything - unfortunately Kat is unable to conceive. After suffering heartache after heartache, Kat and Nick try to adopt, only to fail again - then something crazy happens. Kat runs into her ex-best friend, Lisa and Lisa offers to become their surrogate. The catch? Lisa and Kat have a past. Something bad happened between them 10 years ago, something that made it so that they severed all ties with each other. Something so bad that Kat has never forgiven herself for it and has even kept her past a secret from her husband. As for Lisa? She has secrets of her own.. and is quite shady herself. As the story progresses it’s hard to tell if Lisa can be trusted.
Kat’s life soon gets out of control. Kat begins to think that everyone in her life, including Nick, his best friend Richard, Lisa and her next door neighbor Claire, are against her and we can’t help but think the same thing. Kat’s antics are wild and completely far-fetched - as is the story itself.
There were many-a-time that I rolled my eyes and couldn’t wait to get to the end. I thanked goodness that it was a quick, easy read. The ending was nutso, if I do say so myself. Completely unexpected, and that my friends is why we read mysteries: for the element of surprise, and “The Surrogate’s” ending, took me by surprise and then some. If you aren’t shocked, then you are one heck of a detective!
This was a Traveling Sister Read. It included with Brenda, Norma, Kaceey, Lindsay, Jennifer, Holly, Berit and Mary Beth. We all had a lot of fun reading it together. It was my first read with Berit and Mary Beth. Welcome to the sisterhood ladies, it was a pleasure!
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon, Twitter and Facebook on 11.10.17.
November 11, 2017
4.5 twisted stars! This book kept me on my toes until the bitter end!
Kat wants a baby, at any cost, so when Lisa a friend she has had not had contact with in over 10 years reenters her life she assumes it is fate that she is offering to be a surrogate for her.... I spent most of this book hoping Kat would smarten up, I felt as though she needed a good friend in her life to shake some sense into her, but.... I spent the rest of the time trying to figure out how all these characters were connected in the past, Nick, Richard, Lisa, and even Claire.... I really could not get through this book quick enough, I just needed to know what was going on....And the end of this book definitely did not disappoint, it was the perfect spectacular ending to this crazy ride! narration: the narrator did a good job, she definitely had a lovely accent!
You can find the Traveling Sister review of this book and many more fabulous reviews on Norma and Brenda’s blog at https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
Kat wants a baby, at any cost, so when Lisa a friend she has had not had contact with in over 10 years reenters her life she assumes it is fate that she is offering to be a surrogate for her.... I spent most of this book hoping Kat would smarten up, I felt as though she needed a good friend in her life to shake some sense into her, but.... I spent the rest of the time trying to figure out how all these characters were connected in the past, Nick, Richard, Lisa, and even Claire.... I really could not get through this book quick enough, I just needed to know what was going on....And the end of this book definitely did not disappoint, it was the perfect spectacular ending to this crazy ride! narration: the narrator did a good job, she definitely had a lovely accent!
This was a Traveling Sisters read, some of the sisters were a little more annoyed with this book and felt as though they definitely needed to suspend belief... it was definitely fun trying to figure this book out with all of them, always more fun reading along with these ladies!
You can find the Traveling Sister review of this book and many more fabulous reviews on Norma and Brenda’s blog at https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
November 9, 2017
Looking for a good binge book? This could be it!
Kat and her husband Nick are desperately trying to get pregnant. Two adoption attempts have already broken their hearts. Kat would do anything to become a mom, but the “anything” is the scary part!
“I’m slipping back into the past. The good. The bad. All of it.” – Kat feels an uneasiness in the air. Does anyone else feel it?
Kat and her friend Lisa run into each other unexpectedly and “catch up” with each others lives, but they share a dark past and they are both struggling to put their lives back together. Can Lisa be trusted with Kat’s most precious dreams? We’ll soon find out!
I had one issue with the way the end wrapped up with one of the characters (I won't go into it-no spoilers here) , but I was able to overcome it because the ending was so stunning and hair-raising!
A wonderful sister read with Brenda, Norma, Kaceey, Susanne, Berit, Mary, Lindsay, and Jennifer!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Kat and her husband Nick are desperately trying to get pregnant. Two adoption attempts have already broken their hearts. Kat would do anything to become a mom, but the “anything” is the scary part!
“I’m slipping back into the past. The good. The bad. All of it.” – Kat feels an uneasiness in the air. Does anyone else feel it?
Kat and her friend Lisa run into each other unexpectedly and “catch up” with each others lives, but they share a dark past and they are both struggling to put their lives back together. Can Lisa be trusted with Kat’s most precious dreams? We’ll soon find out!
I had one issue with the way the end wrapped up with one of the characters (I won't go into it-no spoilers here) , but I was able to overcome it because the ending was so stunning and hair-raising!
A wonderful sister read with Brenda, Norma, Kaceey, Susanne, Berit, Mary, Lindsay, and Jennifer!
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
November 15, 2017
This was a Traveling Sisters group read that I had the pleasure of reading along with Brenda, Kaceey, Lindsay, Holly B, Susanne, Berit, Mary Beth and Jennifer. We had some fun and interesting discussions trying to figure this one out!
THE SURROGATE by LOUISE JENSEN is a shocking, twisty, suspenseful, and a highly entertaining psychological thriller novel that had so many twists and turns that felt like I was on the crazy train to nowhere. This book did keep me rolling on down the track in nervous anticipation all the way to the quite surprising and off the rails ending. The ending was so unexpected that I didn’t even see it coming.
LOUISE JENSEN delivers quite the intriguing story here with so many secrets and twists with chapter ending cliffhangers to make this a quick and easy read. I did have one slight issue that had me questioning the way things wrapped up for one of the characters though as it seemed a little far-fetched but it did not affect my enjoyment or how entertaining this book was for me though. I actually really enjoy suspending disbelief and that has me questioning a character’s behaviour or actions while I am reading it as long as it is full of surprises and ends up making sense to me in the end then I am able to go with the flow and just enjoy the story for what it is.
To sum it all up it was an enjoyable, exciting, fast-paced, and an entertaining read with an unexpected and surprising ending. I don’t think this story was at all predictable. Would highly recommend!!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Louise Jensen for the opportunity to read a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
THE SURROGATE by LOUISE JENSEN is a shocking, twisty, suspenseful, and a highly entertaining psychological thriller novel that had so many twists and turns that felt like I was on the crazy train to nowhere. This book did keep me rolling on down the track in nervous anticipation all the way to the quite surprising and off the rails ending. The ending was so unexpected that I didn’t even see it coming.
LOUISE JENSEN delivers quite the intriguing story here with so many secrets and twists with chapter ending cliffhangers to make this a quick and easy read. I did have one slight issue that had me questioning the way things wrapped up for one of the characters though as it seemed a little far-fetched but it did not affect my enjoyment or how entertaining this book was for me though. I actually really enjoy suspending disbelief and that has me questioning a character’s behaviour or actions while I am reading it as long as it is full of surprises and ends up making sense to me in the end then I am able to go with the flow and just enjoy the story for what it is.
To sum it all up it was an enjoyable, exciting, fast-paced, and an entertaining read with an unexpected and surprising ending. I don’t think this story was at all predictable. Would highly recommend!!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Louise Jensen for the opportunity to read a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
October 8, 2017
EXCERPT: 'Is it really a coincidence she is here or has she purposely tracked me down? And if so, why?
'Revenge' whispers the voice inside my head.'
THE BLURB: ‘You know that feeling? When you want something so badly, you almost feel you’d kill for it?’
Be careful what you wish for…
Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat’s perfect picture of happily-ever-after, she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family…
MY THOUGHTS: Twisted, twisty and oh so nerve wracking! I almost tore my fingernails out of their beds reading The Surrogate by Louise Jensen, and I do not bite my nails!
Full marks to Louise Jensen. She has demonstrated that she is mistress of her art. I thought I knew where she was going with this. She reinforced my beliefs. But she took me for a ride - up the wrong road. More than that, I am not going to say. I don't want to give anything away. I don't want to spoil any surprises. And they come thick and fast.
I am going to liken reading this book to riding a roller coaster in one of those spinning teacups with no seat belts. Thrilling, scary. Yes, you may have to suspend belief occasionally, but believe me, by then, you won't care.
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of The Surrogate for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. 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
'Revenge' whispers the voice inside my head.'
THE BLURB: ‘You know that feeling? When you want something so badly, you almost feel you’d kill for it?’
Be careful what you wish for…
Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat’s perfect picture of happily-ever-after, she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family…
MY THOUGHTS: Twisted, twisty and oh so nerve wracking! I almost tore my fingernails out of their beds reading The Surrogate by Louise Jensen, and I do not bite my nails!
Full marks to Louise Jensen. She has demonstrated that she is mistress of her art. I thought I knew where she was going with this. She reinforced my beliefs. But she took me for a ride - up the wrong road. More than that, I am not going to say. I don't want to give anything away. I don't want to spoil any surprises. And they come thick and fast.
I am going to liken reading this book to riding a roller coaster in one of those spinning teacups with no seat belts. Thrilling, scary. Yes, you may have to suspend belief occasionally, but believe me, by then, you won't care.
Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of The Surrogate for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. 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
September 3, 2017
Ok.. wow had to recover a little bit from this book.
I have been a big fan of Louise Jensen since her debut of The Sister. Of course, I jumped on the wagon to read her newest novel The Surrogate. I was overly excited that I was approved on Netgalley for this one!
Kat and her husband Nick are doing everything in their power to become parents. Unfortunately, heartache after heartache for this couple in getting their dream of becoming mother and father. Out of nowhere, Kat runs into a long time childhood friend Lisa.. who decides to do an amazing favor for her friend Kat and become her surrogate.
But, everything isn't always perfect is it? Slowly, we start to see things that are falling apart and Lisa isn't really who she says she is. Or as a matter of fact, is Kat who she says she is?....
I can't say too much about this plot since I don't want to give any spoilers away. But, novel is definitely entertaining and keeps you on your edge trying to figure out what the HELLO is going on ;). I do have to say that my attention span was waving in and out in the middle. I was getting quite annoyed with Lisa and Kat's relationship. I was hoping for the story to add up and was getting frustrated.
But, overall the ending is what made this book. I have to say TOTALLY not what I was expecting AT ALL. So cookies and ice cream for Louise! I am a long time fan of Louise and will be looking for her next novel.
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded up for me on this one.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced arc.
Expected publication date is 9/26/17.
I have been a big fan of Louise Jensen since her debut of The Sister. Of course, I jumped on the wagon to read her newest novel The Surrogate. I was overly excited that I was approved on Netgalley for this one!
Kat and her husband Nick are doing everything in their power to become parents. Unfortunately, heartache after heartache for this couple in getting their dream of becoming mother and father. Out of nowhere, Kat runs into a long time childhood friend Lisa.. who decides to do an amazing favor for her friend Kat and become her surrogate.
But, everything isn't always perfect is it? Slowly, we start to see things that are falling apart and Lisa isn't really who she says she is. Or as a matter of fact, is Kat who she says she is?....
I can't say too much about this plot since I don't want to give any spoilers away. But, novel is definitely entertaining and keeps you on your edge trying to figure out what the HELLO is going on ;). I do have to say that my attention span was waving in and out in the middle. I was getting quite annoyed with Lisa and Kat's relationship. I was hoping for the story to add up and was getting frustrated.
But, overall the ending is what made this book. I have to say TOTALLY not what I was expecting AT ALL. So cookies and ice cream for Louise! I am a long time fan of Louise and will be looking for her next novel.
Overall, 3.5 stars rounded up for me on this one.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for an advanced arc.
Expected publication date is 9/26/17.
September 29, 2017
There is nothing that hooks me more with psychological thrillers than when a past tragedy is alluded to right off the bat, but you have no idea what actually happened. And Louise Jensen is a master at this. This twisting of time and space and trying to figure out what happened when.
You know when you want to say to a character, "no! Are you crazy?! This person is walking all over you!" You have to suspend disbelief a bit to think someone wouldn't see all the signs and red flags, but it also makes me heated which is a good sign that you're heavily invested in these characters and actually care what happens to them. But then the author flips the script and was everything you thought to be true really true?
This book just gets better and better as it goes on and really picks up a little more than halfway though. There are so many twists and turns, chapter ending cliffhangers, biting of nails...Jensen is a masterful thriller author and I am 100% a fan.
Thank you to Netgalley, Louise Jensen and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You know when you want to say to a character, "no! Are you crazy?! This person is walking all over you!" You have to suspend disbelief a bit to think someone wouldn't see all the signs and red flags, but it also makes me heated which is a good sign that you're heavily invested in these characters and actually care what happens to them. But then the author flips the script and was everything you thought to be true really true?
This book just gets better and better as it goes on and really picks up a little more than halfway though. There are so many twists and turns, chapter ending cliffhangers, biting of nails...Jensen is a masterful thriller author and I am 100% a fan.
Thank you to Netgalley, Louise Jensen and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2017
3 stars. This was one wild and crazy ride – wow!
This book definitely had a big shock factor for me. The author, Louise Jensen, kept the twists, secrets and surprises coming right up until the end. I enjoyed the suspense and anticipation of wondering what would happen next and to see how things would all end.
I found the majority of this story to be quite far-fetched which prevented me from truly connecting with the book. With that being said, the book was written in such an intriguing and suspenseful way that I was able to set aside my “believability police” radar and simply enjoy this shocking and twisty story.
The characters were interesting even though not fully believable and realistic. I was curious to see how things would play out for each person. It was a quick, easy and entertaining psychological thriller.
I had the pleasure of reading this along with my Traveling Sisters Norma, Brenda, Kaceey, Holly B, Susanne, Berit, Mary Beth and Jennifer. We had some interesting discussions on this one. Please check out the fantastic link below to find out our varying reactions to this jaw-dropping story!
A big thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
To find this review, along with the other Traveling Sister reviews, please visit Brenda and Norma’s fabulous blog at:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
This book definitely had a big shock factor for me. The author, Louise Jensen, kept the twists, secrets and surprises coming right up until the end. I enjoyed the suspense and anticipation of wondering what would happen next and to see how things would all end.
I found the majority of this story to be quite far-fetched which prevented me from truly connecting with the book. With that being said, the book was written in such an intriguing and suspenseful way that I was able to set aside my “believability police” radar and simply enjoy this shocking and twisty story.
The characters were interesting even though not fully believable and realistic. I was curious to see how things would play out for each person. It was a quick, easy and entertaining psychological thriller.
I had the pleasure of reading this along with my Traveling Sisters Norma, Brenda, Kaceey, Holly B, Susanne, Berit, Mary Beth and Jennifer. We had some interesting discussions on this one. Please check out the fantastic link below to find out our varying reactions to this jaw-dropping story!
A big thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
To find this review, along with the other Traveling Sister reviews, please visit Brenda and Norma’s fabulous blog at:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
September 30, 2017
Louise Jensen has quickly climbed my list of favorite authors. If she writes a book, I'll read it! I spent most of my time reading this one with my brow furrowed, trying to figure out who I could trust. In this book everyone, and I mean EVERYONE seems a little fishy. I thought I knew exactly where it was headed, but no. I was wrong about pretty much everything. My armchair detective skills have failed me! This story required some suspension of disbelief and I didn't really relate much with the characters, but it still kept me turning pages.
Kat is desperate to be a mother, but after fertility struggles and two failed adoptions, she's starting to wonder if it'll ever happen for her. Husband Nick wants a little one to care for too, but struggles watching his wife have her heart broken over and over again while dealing with his own disappointment. A ray of light appears just when they need it... Kat's old friend Lisa. She's been a surrogate before, and would be willing to give birth again... especially if it was for Kat. Incredibly good timing, right?
Kat and Lisa have a troubled history that only unfurls as the story goes on, mostly through flashbacks. Something tore their once unbreakable friendship apart once, and that something must have been very bad... but then why is Lisa willing to give Kat this unbelievable gift?
Kat has always had a touch of anxiety she blames on her past, but as months pass and she begins to experience some tension with Nick and worry about Lisa and her pregnancy, she begins to feel paranoid. Was that someone outside peeking through the window? Is someone watching her, making sure she'll never get what she desires the most?
Despite having my hackles up the whole time, prepared for some insanity, this book managed to surprise me multiple times in the end, and I love that!
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
November 12, 2017
3.5 Stars
I read The Surrogate with eight of my Traveling Sisters and we all mostly enjoyed this one making this a very enjoyable, fun and entertaining reading experience for us.
The Surrogate is a fast-paced, entertaining, intriguing yet far-fetched and twisty story that felt like we were watching a fast-paced train on it’s way to a train wreck. It’s a twisty path with lots of turns that clipped along as the suspense kept building until the twisty carnage that left us gawking in disbelief.
Louise Jensen does an excellent job of leading us all down this suspenseful path of hidden secrets leaving a few clues that had a couple of us taking a different turn than the others and figuring out a twist but quickly joined the rest to the end of this twisty story.
The unbelievability police did show up for this one but quickly suspended their disbelief and enjoyed this just for the fun of it story. We recommend.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Louise Jensen for the opportunity to read a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
I read The Surrogate with eight of my Traveling Sisters and we all mostly enjoyed this one making this a very enjoyable, fun and entertaining reading experience for us.
The Surrogate is a fast-paced, entertaining, intriguing yet far-fetched and twisty story that felt like we were watching a fast-paced train on it’s way to a train wreck. It’s a twisty path with lots of turns that clipped along as the suspense kept building until the twisty carnage that left us gawking in disbelief.
Louise Jensen does an excellent job of leading us all down this suspenseful path of hidden secrets leaving a few clues that had a couple of us taking a different turn than the others and figuring out a twist but quickly joined the rest to the end of this twisty story.
The unbelievability police did show up for this one but quickly suspended their disbelief and enjoyed this just for the fun of it story. We recommend.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Louise Jensen for the opportunity to read a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
All of our Traveling Sisters Reviews can be found on our sister blog:
https://twogirlslostinacouleereading....
September 23, 2017
Kat and her husband Nick have been trying to start a family for several years now with no luck. When it was found that Kat couldn't conceive they had turned their attention to adoption thinking they would be able to begin the family they both wanted that way. After a couple of failed attempts when the child goes to someone else at the last minute Kat is devastated and losing hope.
While out one day Kat runs into her childhood friend Lisa with whom she hadn't spoken to in years and didn't think would want to speak to her after having left each other on bad terms. However Lisa welcomes the encounter with open arms and is actually quite excited to see Kat again. With the two reconnecting Kat's dilemma is brought up and Lisa gives Kat a glimmer of hope that she will become a mother that is unless their shared past come back to haunt them.
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is one of those nicely paced psychological thrillers that kept me guessing from the get go on where the author would take this story. I did start off reading this one thinking I was going to get to the end and find that I just knew it all but boy oh boy was I in for a few surprises. The book was pleasantly full of twists and turns that when I would think I was in the know on where the story headed I would find myself having to guess yet again.
I would say though that for me this was one of those books that the characters are not ones that I immediately connected with and rooted for and perhaps even more disliked while reading. That however was not a bad thing as the story was quite intriguing and instead of falling in love with the characters I more became suspicious of each and every one at one point or another and just had to wait until that final shoe to drop to find out all the details and boy what an ending. I think most psychological thriller fans should enjoy this one as it was certainly not what I had expected in the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
While out one day Kat runs into her childhood friend Lisa with whom she hadn't spoken to in years and didn't think would want to speak to her after having left each other on bad terms. However Lisa welcomes the encounter with open arms and is actually quite excited to see Kat again. With the two reconnecting Kat's dilemma is brought up and Lisa gives Kat a glimmer of hope that she will become a mother that is unless their shared past come back to haunt them.
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is one of those nicely paced psychological thrillers that kept me guessing from the get go on where the author would take this story. I did start off reading this one thinking I was going to get to the end and find that I just knew it all but boy oh boy was I in for a few surprises. The book was pleasantly full of twists and turns that when I would think I was in the know on where the story headed I would find myself having to guess yet again.
I would say though that for me this was one of those books that the characters are not ones that I immediately connected with and rooted for and perhaps even more disliked while reading. That however was not a bad thing as the story was quite intriguing and instead of falling in love with the characters I more became suspicious of each and every one at one point or another and just had to wait until that final shoe to drop to find out all the details and boy what an ending. I think most psychological thriller fans should enjoy this one as it was certainly not what I had expected in the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
November 8, 2017
3.5ish runaway train 🚂 stars to The Surrogate
I will keep this review brief because I don't want to give anything away. I dubbed this book a trainwreck in our group read! It's far-fetched at times, sometimes to the point of being outlandish, but The Surrogate is always entertaining. And just like any trainwreck, you have to keep watching (reading) until you know just how it ends. The premise was original, and the ending was unpredictable; and those things, along with the pure entertainment, added to my enjoyment. I will definitely read more books by this author in the future.
Thanks to the Traveling Sisters for another fun group read! Visit Brenda's and Norma's blog for reviews of all the books we read together:
http://twogirlslostinacouleereading.w...
I will keep this review brief because I don't want to give anything away. I dubbed this book a trainwreck in our group read! It's far-fetched at times, sometimes to the point of being outlandish, but The Surrogate is always entertaining. And just like any trainwreck, you have to keep watching (reading) until you know just how it ends. The premise was original, and the ending was unpredictable; and those things, along with the pure entertainment, added to my enjoyment. I will definitely read more books by this author in the future.
Thanks to the Traveling Sisters for another fun group read! Visit Brenda's and Norma's blog for reviews of all the books we read together:
http://twogirlslostinacouleereading.w...
September 21, 2017
The surrogate by Louise Jenson was a story full of secrets and lies. Kat is desperate to become a mother and when her adoption of a child from another country falls through she enters into an agreement with an old friend Lisa who offers to become a surrogate. I enjoyed this book and the story kept me intrigued as there was so many twist and turns. I would like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2017
Wow! A book that’s far from perfect but nearly always entertaining and a large OMG for those last 50 pages or so and the ending!!
Kat and Nick are desperate to be parents. Married 10 years and having found out that Kat can’t conceive they have decided to go the adoption route. They have tried and have failed with a couple of foreign adoption attempts and Kat is distraught. She wants nothing more than to be a mother.
She has started a new life for herself after some, as yet disclosed,major event in her life made her leave her life,family and friends behind and start again. She met Nick and is happily married but she so wants a family.
By chance she bumps in to an old friend from her past life, Lisa. Her best friend from childhood and her teenage years, they shared everything and were inseparable up until Kats sudden departure. Not having seen her for so long she is wary but they soon rekindle their friendship and when Kat tells her they have been trying to adopt, Lisa offers to be a surrogate for their baby, having done it once before. Kat can’t believe her luck and as Nick agrees Lisa soon becomes pregnant.
As the pregnancy advances Kat becomes suspicious of Lisa’s constant demands for money and doesn’t know whether to trust her or not. She’s very hard to contact and keeps postponing the hospital appointments that she and Kat are to attend for the baby. Does she have some ulterior motive here? Revenge for whatever may have happened in the past? Is Lisa really the person she says she is? In fact do we really know Kat and the person she was/is? Can her narrative here be trusted?
To go into any more detail on the storyline would involve spoilers so I won’t. What I will say is what we have here is an overall very enjoyable thriller/whodunnit/mystery. It’s not perfect. It flags at times in the middle and becomes a little repetitive. The story as well maybe a little fantastical and the characters not particularly likable but, having said all that, I mostly had a blast reading it.
You just don’t know what’s really going on underneath for most of the book, with plenty of storylines being hinted at, but with suspicion and paranoia on all sides, it’s hard to grasp onto what is the truth and what is imagination/paranoia. Plenty of red herrings throughout. Maybe too many for its own good but they did add to the fun of it all.
It’s a pretty grim read when you dig down into the subject matter but you always feel the author is telling the story with someone holding her reigns until the final few chapters where she is let loose to tie everything together and literally have your jaw drop as everything is revealed.
I thought about giving this three stars. Although I enjoyed it, it wasn’t without it faults as pointed out above. But you know what? There was a certain “mania” to the book that suited the characters down to the ground and made it a really fun read. The story is mad like, looking at it in the cold light of day. A little too fantastical to swallow but there was just something about the reading experience for the most part that elevated this above a “enjoyable but nothing special”to a new class of “bonkers if flawed but certainly memorable” and for that reason I’m giving this a four star review.
What I will do when I’m finished writing this review is go off and read other people’s reviews as id love to see what other people made of it and look forward to reading future reviews. I’m sure they will vary wildly as I can see this one splitting opinion somewhat.
I’d certainly recommend you try this one and if you do, I’d certainly be interested in reading your thoughts on it. Grab a copy, hang on tight and hang on especially tight for that huge final drop in this rollercoaster ride of a novel.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kat and Nick are desperate to be parents. Married 10 years and having found out that Kat can’t conceive they have decided to go the adoption route. They have tried and have failed with a couple of foreign adoption attempts and Kat is distraught. She wants nothing more than to be a mother.
She has started a new life for herself after some, as yet disclosed,major event in her life made her leave her life,family and friends behind and start again. She met Nick and is happily married but she so wants a family.
By chance she bumps in to an old friend from her past life, Lisa. Her best friend from childhood and her teenage years, they shared everything and were inseparable up until Kats sudden departure. Not having seen her for so long she is wary but they soon rekindle their friendship and when Kat tells her they have been trying to adopt, Lisa offers to be a surrogate for their baby, having done it once before. Kat can’t believe her luck and as Nick agrees Lisa soon becomes pregnant.
As the pregnancy advances Kat becomes suspicious of Lisa’s constant demands for money and doesn’t know whether to trust her or not. She’s very hard to contact and keeps postponing the hospital appointments that she and Kat are to attend for the baby. Does she have some ulterior motive here? Revenge for whatever may have happened in the past? Is Lisa really the person she says she is? In fact do we really know Kat and the person she was/is? Can her narrative here be trusted?
To go into any more detail on the storyline would involve spoilers so I won’t. What I will say is what we have here is an overall very enjoyable thriller/whodunnit/mystery. It’s not perfect. It flags at times in the middle and becomes a little repetitive. The story as well maybe a little fantastical and the characters not particularly likable but, having said all that, I mostly had a blast reading it.
You just don’t know what’s really going on underneath for most of the book, with plenty of storylines being hinted at, but with suspicion and paranoia on all sides, it’s hard to grasp onto what is the truth and what is imagination/paranoia. Plenty of red herrings throughout. Maybe too many for its own good but they did add to the fun of it all.
It’s a pretty grim read when you dig down into the subject matter but you always feel the author is telling the story with someone holding her reigns until the final few chapters where she is let loose to tie everything together and literally have your jaw drop as everything is revealed.
I thought about giving this three stars. Although I enjoyed it, it wasn’t without it faults as pointed out above. But you know what? There was a certain “mania” to the book that suited the characters down to the ground and made it a really fun read. The story is mad like, looking at it in the cold light of day. A little too fantastical to swallow but there was just something about the reading experience for the most part that elevated this above a “enjoyable but nothing special”to a new class of “bonkers if flawed but certainly memorable” and for that reason I’m giving this a four star review.
What I will do when I’m finished writing this review is go off and read other people’s reviews as id love to see what other people made of it and look forward to reading future reviews. I’m sure they will vary wildly as I can see this one splitting opinion somewhat.
I’d certainly recommend you try this one and if you do, I’d certainly be interested in reading your thoughts on it. Grab a copy, hang on tight and hang on especially tight for that huge final drop in this rollercoaster ride of a novel.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and Louise Jensen for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2022
The Surrogate is an earlier work of Louise Jensen's that hit my queue this week; it's the last of her books that I needed to read to say that I am current. Although she recently had a new release last month, it seems to only be available in the UK right now.
Kat and Nick want to have a baby. His parents are dead. She's estranged from her own. They've lost two babies in a failed adoption attempt, and now they're desperate. Enter Lisa, a former friend of Kat's who essentially volunteers to help. By halfway through the book, it's clear everyone's hiding secrets. Nick and his best friend aren't talking much about their business. Lisa might be faking her pregnancy. A woman down the street claims to be friends but acts weird. A man seems to be stalking them. Kat throws herself into the production of a play she missed out on years ago. It's all connected. As the details unravel, some connections were kinda obvious. Others were shockers! The book opens with an ambulance and a cop noting two people were found dead, likely murdered. Which two is it?
So much of this was a fantastic, wild ride. I suspended my disbelief at Kat letting Lisa be the surrogate. Seriously, early on she doubted her former friend's honesty. Why ever let yourself go down that route, even if you desperately want to be a mother? The signs of failure were all there. But... it happened, so I went with it. That's part of what you do with literature, and a good author, and to give yourself a leap from reality. The tension is ripe; I wanted to yell at the characters. The clues are clear and obvious when you read them back again. So much to really connect with, even if at times you know you'd handle the issues differently.
In the end, it was an entertaining read that kept me focused for a few hours. I didn't put it down. I am eager for more. Can't wait for the author's 2022 release.
Kat and Nick want to have a baby. His parents are dead. She's estranged from her own. They've lost two babies in a failed adoption attempt, and now they're desperate. Enter Lisa, a former friend of Kat's who essentially volunteers to help. By halfway through the book, it's clear everyone's hiding secrets. Nick and his best friend aren't talking much about their business. Lisa might be faking her pregnancy. A woman down the street claims to be friends but acts weird. A man seems to be stalking them. Kat throws herself into the production of a play she missed out on years ago. It's all connected. As the details unravel, some connections were kinda obvious. Others were shockers! The book opens with an ambulance and a cop noting two people were found dead, likely murdered. Which two is it?
So much of this was a fantastic, wild ride. I suspended my disbelief at Kat letting Lisa be the surrogate. Seriously, early on she doubted her former friend's honesty. Why ever let yourself go down that route, even if you desperately want to be a mother? The signs of failure were all there. But... it happened, so I went with it. That's part of what you do with literature, and a good author, and to give yourself a leap from reality. The tension is ripe; I wanted to yell at the characters. The clues are clear and obvious when you read them back again. So much to really connect with, even if at times you know you'd handle the issues differently.
In the end, it was an entertaining read that kept me focused for a few hours. I didn't put it down. I am eager for more. Can't wait for the author's 2022 release.
October 1, 2017
As I’m not a mother and have no desire to become one, I wasn’t sure whether I would love this book. However, having loved both previous books by Louise Jensen, I was still very much looking forward to reading this. I’m pleased to announce that The Surrogate was yet another 5 star read for me.
This story starts with a crime scene where two bodies are found. The story then goes back to what led to that scene. Part way through the book I was sure I’d worked out who those bodies were. Then one of those people changed in my mind. In the end, the only one I had guessed correctly was one of the people I first guessed and then changed my mind about later on.
This twisty mind-boggling psychological thriller had me feeling tense, paranoid, gasping in surprise and trusting less people the further I progressed. I loved how the secrets were gradually revealed, giving this story much more depth and darkness than I guessed it would have at the beginning.
I do love a book that convinces you that you know what’s going to happen, has you feeling so sure of the outcome, but then throws it back in your face… repeatedly! The later part of this book was rather intense. Perhaps not the best book choice to treat my middle of the night insomnia with, as I was so gripped I ended up reading in the night for a whole two hours. In fact, it started getting light outside by the time I finally put the book down and attempted to squeeze in an hour’s sleep before I had to get up again.
The Surrogate is another brilliant book by this talented author. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
My review is also available on by blog:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
This story starts with a crime scene where two bodies are found. The story then goes back to what led to that scene. Part way through the book I was sure I’d worked out who those bodies were. Then one of those people changed in my mind. In the end, the only one I had guessed correctly was one of the people I first guessed and then changed my mind about later on.
This twisty mind-boggling psychological thriller had me feeling tense, paranoid, gasping in surprise and trusting less people the further I progressed. I loved how the secrets were gradually revealed, giving this story much more depth and darkness than I guessed it would have at the beginning.
I do love a book that convinces you that you know what’s going to happen, has you feeling so sure of the outcome, but then throws it back in your face… repeatedly! The later part of this book was rather intense. Perhaps not the best book choice to treat my middle of the night insomnia with, as I was so gripped I ended up reading in the night for a whole two hours. In fact, it started getting light outside by the time I finally put the book down and attempted to squeeze in an hour’s sleep before I had to get up again.
The Surrogate is another brilliant book by this talented author. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
My review is also available on by blog:
https://littlemissnosleep.wordpress.c...
December 3, 2017
THE SURROGATE by Louise Jensen is a suspenseful psychological thriller novel with so many twists and an unexpected ending that I never saw coming! Having been so impressed with her previous novels, “The Gift” and “The Sister”, I didn’t know if she could keep up the momentum…but she blew it out of the water with this one!
The novel deals with the emotional roller coaster that a married couple, Kat and her husband Nick go through, when they have tried to become parents, and are at the point of giving up. They have tried the adoption process but that fell though, and now must consider other methods, when their fertility problems are taking a toll on their marriage.
Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream. Then Lisa, as a surrogate, agrees to carrying a baby for her.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets. What happened with Lisa and Kat in the past, why did they separate? The alternating chapters are titled “Now” and “Then”, where slowly clues are released on a need-to-know basis, and we learn what happened so many years ago and how it effects the characters today.
But while following the story, I didn’t know who to trust. Something just doesn’t add up!
On a personal level, this book stirred up a lot of emotional baggage of my own, as I also suffered from this problem, and went through numerous unsuccessful In vitro fertilization attempts, so I know the pain this couple went through, and could feel their anguish.
I liked the quote from Lisa to Kat:
“We always get what we deserve.”
Read this book, to see how it all works out. Highly recommended!
My thanks to Bookouture via Net Galley for my copy.
The novel deals with the emotional roller coaster that a married couple, Kat and her husband Nick go through, when they have tried to become parents, and are at the point of giving up. They have tried the adoption process but that fell though, and now must consider other methods, when their fertility problems are taking a toll on their marriage.
Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream. Then Lisa, as a surrogate, agrees to carrying a baby for her.
But Kat and Lisa’s history hides dark secrets. What happened with Lisa and Kat in the past, why did they separate? The alternating chapters are titled “Now” and “Then”, where slowly clues are released on a need-to-know basis, and we learn what happened so many years ago and how it effects the characters today.
But while following the story, I didn’t know who to trust. Something just doesn’t add up!
On a personal level, this book stirred up a lot of emotional baggage of my own, as I also suffered from this problem, and went through numerous unsuccessful In vitro fertilization attempts, so I know the pain this couple went through, and could feel their anguish.
I liked the quote from Lisa to Kat:
“We always get what we deserve.”
Read this book, to see how it all works out. Highly recommended!
My thanks to Bookouture via Net Galley for my copy.
September 28, 2017
Ever since I read Louise Jensen’s debut The Sister I’ve been a huge fan of her writing, but OMG The Surrogate her latest and most adventurous book yet puts her firmly on my list of “must read” authors. The Surrogate’s title misled me, I thought it would be a “heart warming” tale, but how wrong could I be! It turned out to be dark and very twisted tale, one that’s shrouded in lies, buried secrets and betrayal I really think this is the authors best book yet and it definitely one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read this year.
The Surrogate starts so innocently Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream. What appears to be the perfect arrangement soon turns into something much darker, phew the sense of malice radiates from the pages early on and this increases as the plot becomes more complex.
There were numerous characters in The Surrogate but what a dysfunctional bunch they turned out to be. I couldn’t help sympathising with Kat’s plight, I can’t begin to imagine the heartbreak, the emotions and the feelings of failure woman like Kat go through, so desperate are they to have children. I love a book where you find it impossible to trust any of the characters, and I found I couldn’t trust any of them, rather like the main character Kat I found paranoia kicking in as my mistrust of each character grew. Each character seems to be hiding something and I wasn’t wrong, when these secrets begin to surface I found myself lost for words. The Surrogate is told in two time frames and I do enjoy a book that moves between the past and the present, when it’s done well I find it heightens the mystery and suspense as you are never quite sure when the two will collide and Louise Jensen makes sure the two collide in the most shocking and spectacular fashion.
Full of twists and turns I found my head spinning, from the opening chapter I felt a sense of dread that stayed with me until I reached the heart stopping conclusion. The ending may have seemed a little far fetched but when I read a book especially one that holds so many surprises I’m happy to suspend disbelief and “go with the flow”. For me personally a psychological thriller has to have an element of surprise a “OMG” moment, The Surrogate has lots of theses moments and I literally read this book in one sitting. Would I recommend this book? It’s a huge and definite “yes” from me.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
The Surrogate starts so innocently Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents, and are on the point of giving up. Then a chance encounter with Kat’s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream. What appears to be the perfect arrangement soon turns into something much darker, phew the sense of malice radiates from the pages early on and this increases as the plot becomes more complex.
There were numerous characters in The Surrogate but what a dysfunctional bunch they turned out to be. I couldn’t help sympathising with Kat’s plight, I can’t begin to imagine the heartbreak, the emotions and the feelings of failure woman like Kat go through, so desperate are they to have children. I love a book where you find it impossible to trust any of the characters, and I found I couldn’t trust any of them, rather like the main character Kat I found paranoia kicking in as my mistrust of each character grew. Each character seems to be hiding something and I wasn’t wrong, when these secrets begin to surface I found myself lost for words. The Surrogate is told in two time frames and I do enjoy a book that moves between the past and the present, when it’s done well I find it heightens the mystery and suspense as you are never quite sure when the two will collide and Louise Jensen makes sure the two collide in the most shocking and spectacular fashion.
Full of twists and turns I found my head spinning, from the opening chapter I felt a sense of dread that stayed with me until I reached the heart stopping conclusion. The ending may have seemed a little far fetched but when I read a book especially one that holds so many surprises I’m happy to suspend disbelief and “go with the flow”. For me personally a psychological thriller has to have an element of surprise a “OMG” moment, The Surrogate has lots of theses moments and I literally read this book in one sitting. Would I recommend this book? It’s a huge and definite “yes” from me.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
August 2, 2020
Stand alone thriller published 2017.
This is my first time reading anything by author Louise Jensen and on the whole I enjoyed the book which turned out to be quite the page turner.
But as much as I enjoyed this book it did test my frustration levels.
Never have I encountered so many insecure characters leading such insecure live as I have between the pages of Surrogate. So many dark secrets kept secret by all the characters and I mean all of them. Everyone wanted the truth but no one was prepared to reveal their own dark past. To be fare if the truth was told up front the book would have only been about twenty pages long.
Kat is married to Nick and for the moment they are childless, turns out that Kat is infertile. They have tried adopting from overseas but with no luck.
Kat has one driving ambition and that is to be a mother, to say that she is obsessed would be an under statement. You come to understand her obsession as the book progresses. This is one of those dark secrets that Kat is reluctant to reveal even to her husband of all people.
Enter Lisa an old friend of Kat’s from another place and time. When Kat pores her heart out to Lisa about her childless state Lisa can’t help herself and proposes to act as surrogate for Kat and Nick, as you do.
Kat jumps at the proposal and convinces Nick that they should take the life line that Lisa has given them.
But when you are as paranoid as Kat it doesn’t take long before things start going pear shaped.
As the book progresses so does my incredulity but by this time I was so invested in the story I just had to find out what the hell was going on.
The character left me feeling frustrated but I was still entertained.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
This is my first time reading anything by author Louise Jensen and on the whole I enjoyed the book which turned out to be quite the page turner.
But as much as I enjoyed this book it did test my frustration levels.
Never have I encountered so many insecure characters leading such insecure live as I have between the pages of Surrogate. So many dark secrets kept secret by all the characters and I mean all of them. Everyone wanted the truth but no one was prepared to reveal their own dark past. To be fare if the truth was told up front the book would have only been about twenty pages long.
Kat is married to Nick and for the moment they are childless, turns out that Kat is infertile. They have tried adopting from overseas but with no luck.
Kat has one driving ambition and that is to be a mother, to say that she is obsessed would be an under statement. You come to understand her obsession as the book progresses. This is one of those dark secrets that Kat is reluctant to reveal even to her husband of all people.
Enter Lisa an old friend of Kat’s from another place and time. When Kat pores her heart out to Lisa about her childless state Lisa can’t help herself and proposes to act as surrogate for Kat and Nick, as you do.
Kat jumps at the proposal and convinces Nick that they should take the life line that Lisa has given them.
But when you are as paranoid as Kat it doesn’t take long before things start going pear shaped.
As the book progresses so does my incredulity but by this time I was so invested in the story I just had to find out what the hell was going on.
The character left me feeling frustrated but I was still entertained.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars.
August 6, 2019
Wow! That was an amazing read with high wire tension complete with a series of twisted, surprising shocks in the end I felt like I'd just touched an electrified fence!!
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is a must, must read!
How far would you go to get a baby?
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is a must, must read!
How far would you go to get a baby?
September 27, 2017
Kat and her husband Nick have tried everything to become parents and are on the point of giving up.Then a chance encounter with Kat`s childhood friend Lisa gives Kat and Nick one last chance to achieve their dream.
But Kat and Lisa`s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat`s perfect picture of happily - ever - after,she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family....
Opening at a crime scene in a quiet cul de sac and flipping back and forth between then and now,this gripping,twist packed thriller is mainly voiced by Kat who is a very complex and at times rather selfish character.Because you only learn about Nick in the chapters set in the past and there is no chapters that are voiced by Lisa,their present day characters are both very mysterious which adds to the readers doubts about their actions and makes you unsure wether Kat can really trust them or not.Nothing is ever what it seems in this twisted story,like a master magician Louise Jensen works her magic putting you under the illusion that you know what is going on and then Bam,she throws in a twist and you realise that you were absolutely and totally wrong and believe me,i found I was wrong about quite a number of things.The characters are realistic and totally untrustworthy,surprisingly I did feel some sympathy towards a couple of the main characters by the end of the book.
I absolutely loved this well written,twist paced,gripping tale of friendships,relationships,lies,paranoia and mistakes.The ending blew me away,it was so mind blowing and shocking,totally chilling.I think this is Louise Jensen`s best book so far and I would love to give it loads more than five stars,it is definitely going to be one of my top five books of the year.
Many thanks to Bookouture for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
But Kat and Lisa`s history hides dark secrets.
And there is more to Lisa than meets the eye.
As dangerous cracks start to appear in Kat`s perfect picture of happily - ever - after,she realises that she must face her fear of the past to save her family....
Opening at a crime scene in a quiet cul de sac and flipping back and forth between then and now,this gripping,twist packed thriller is mainly voiced by Kat who is a very complex and at times rather selfish character.Because you only learn about Nick in the chapters set in the past and there is no chapters that are voiced by Lisa,their present day characters are both very mysterious which adds to the readers doubts about their actions and makes you unsure wether Kat can really trust them or not.Nothing is ever what it seems in this twisted story,like a master magician Louise Jensen works her magic putting you under the illusion that you know what is going on and then Bam,she throws in a twist and you realise that you were absolutely and totally wrong and believe me,i found I was wrong about quite a number of things.The characters are realistic and totally untrustworthy,surprisingly I did feel some sympathy towards a couple of the main characters by the end of the book.
I absolutely loved this well written,twist paced,gripping tale of friendships,relationships,lies,paranoia and mistakes.The ending blew me away,it was so mind blowing and shocking,totally chilling.I think this is Louise Jensen`s best book so far and I would love to give it loads more than five stars,it is definitely going to be one of my top five books of the year.
Many thanks to Bookouture for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
December 20, 2017
The 30 Best Books of 2017
Louise Jensen is on a roll! Three hits in a row—quite the accomplishment. Her passion shines through. The author’s previous two books reached #1 in the UK and abroad (if you have not heard).
The thriller queen returns following The Gift on my Top Books of 2016 and The Sister (2016) with her latest THE SURROGATE — her best yet!
NOTE to readers: PS. I continue to say, "I am going to keep my reviews short." That way I can write many more reviews. Right? However, when I get started, they seem to go on and on. If you do not feel like reading them; my feelings will not be hurt. Just take my advice, and buy the book. Judge for yourself. I think you will find; there is much to be discussed. The good ones always are. If you spend time reading a book, why not spend just as much time writing a review?
Talk about "unreliable" narrator (s) ! These guys are pros. The author keeps you guessing until the final explosive conclusion with one last jab. Turning the knife a little more. A killer twist.
If you think this is the same ordinary surrogate story? The surrogate tries to keep the baby. Wife disappointed. Husband runs off with the surrogate. . . . "No, think again." Much more complex and multi-layered.
The reader does not know which character they can trust. The characters do not trust one another.
Complex with a Capital “C.” Each character has a secret past, and as the novel progresses, skeletons come out of the closet— one by one. Unraveling. You gasp and say, "WTH?"
This book is high anxiety and happened to be reading it in the middle of a hurricane, which only accelerated the intensity. The author creates clever twists (her master signature style) and keeps you on your toes.
Guilt, loyalty, revenge, love, trust, betrayal, and hate.
An array of emotions. Who is the real guilty party, or is it a combination of people? One wrong action and turn— causes a domino effect. Do you know your friends and your spouse?
“So many lives ruined. What was one more?”
As the book opens, there is a reporter. There are two bodies. A double murder?
Meet Kat and Nick. From then to now.
Overall they seem like a nice ordinary couple. Charity work. They have been married for eight years. Stroke Support. A charity Nick set up with his best friend Richard after Richard's grandmother had a stroke.
Kate had been a temp, and this is how they met. They are financially sound. She still works for them, while Richard is busy with his law firm and Nick has a property development company.
Kate wants a baby. Let me correct myself. She is "obsessed" with having a baby. She wants to be a mother. She is getting desperate and running out of patience.
Nick, her husband says he wants one too, but you get a strong feeling, not with the same level of enthusiasm and burning desire, as his wife. Maybe just wants his wife to be happy. She, after all, cannot have children. He can.
Their many attempts have been unsuccessful. From doctors, tests, to adoption agencies. Each time they get close, something falls through at the last minute.
Enter Lisa.
Lisa comes back into Kate’s life after a long absence. A childhood friend. They were BFFs. What happened to separate the two? Is she a friend harboring a grudge, perhaps?
Can Kate trust her? Was this encounter planned or a by chance meeting? Fate? The two were great friends growing up but had a major falling out. We do not know in the earlier part of the book. A mystery. We know there was a car accident that rocked their small town and Kate ran away, leaving Lisa to deal with questions.
One thing Kat knows for sure. It is approaching the 10th anniversary of Jake, her ex-boyfriend’s death. Has fate brought the once best friends back together? Good or bad?
Mistakes are made.
“We learn that Kate is a keeper of secrets. A guardian of the truth.” . . . You mustn’t tell Kate.”
Lisa seems to have been the third wheel in their teen relationship. Very jealous of the relationship Kate had with Jake. Is there more to this story? You better believe it.
Lisa never wanted to be a mother. Kate is dying to be a mother. Lisa said she had been a surrogate previously, and it went well, leaving a seed planted in Kate’s mind. Is she genuine, or not?
Later an adoption falls through once again and Kate wonders, what if? Could this work? Is surrogacy the answer? In the past, she never thought about this option, but Lisa? The person she has known her entire life. This could be a miracle.
You know when you are desperate, you are not thinking clearly and weighing all the options. Desire clouds our thinking.
However, from here on out, nothing is simple. What a roller coaster wild crazy ride. The psychological elements are slow burning to sizzling!
Each reader will have theories about the murders. They will change throughout the book. Lisa is hiding her past. Kate is hiding her past. Now, Nick is hiding his past. (Nick’s is a doozy).
You do not expect this haunting tragedy. This poor guy cannot catch a break. However, in the present, he seems to have it together (to Kate, anyway). Removed. Something is going on with him, and he says work issues.
Kate is heartbroken about a past love. There was a car accident. She came from a very strict family, especially her dad. She lost her shot at motherhood, and love on one fatal night. Does she want revenge? She has never told Nick about her secrets. He has not shared his.
You are dying to know, what happened!
As a reader, you are also unsure about Lisa. Kate suspects something is not quite right with Lisa. She agrees to be a surrogate, but at times she appears to be hiding something. Kate is suspicious. She could ruin her life.
Throw Richard into the mix. He is an attorney and best friend of Nick’s from childhood. Kate gets the feeling Richard does not like her. He always handles their adoption affairs. Can we trust him? Is he sabotaging their chances?
Kate realizes her husband is not so keen on the idea of their upcoming baby. He seems withdrawn. She suspects he may be having an affair. Has she pushed him away with her overwhelming obsession?
Lisa is acting strangely. Is Kate paranoid because she cannot control her own life? She is at the mercy of Lisa. The picture-perfect life she had planned seems to be falling apart.
Who is lying?
“Our version of the truth is pliable, we mold our reality to mask our lies, and sometimes it sounds so plausible we even convince ourselves.”
As the intense suspense builds all three characters’ lives intersect. Except wait a minute. It is not over until the fat lady sings. Just when you think it will end a certain way, BAM . . . an evil twist.
The Butterfly Effect: The butterfly effect is a concept that states "small causes can have larger effects".
If you have seen the movie The Butterfly: (2004) American psychological thriller supernatural fiction film starring, Ashton Kutcher.
“The title refers to the butterfly effect, a popular hypothetical example of chaos theory which illustrates how small initial differences may lead to large unforeseen consequences over time.”
When you finish reading you will be speculating how different things could have been, if. These two are different in many ways but reminds me strongly of-Harlan Coben’s, mini-series, The Five (which I binge-watched this weekend on Netflix on my Kindle). Loved! Top-Notch. One mistake. Again, the butterfly effect. The Sinner is another example (loved this book and mini-series).
People carry guilt their entire lives over certain things. However, we learn shortly after that; there may have been other things, and persons and circumstances at play, which changed the course.
Mind-boggling. However, this person may go through life and never know how each small thing contributed to the tragedy, as well. Where mysteries and missing persons go unsolved; very intriguing.
You've got to love books like this. I know I do. Heart-pounding. Enthralling! Many what-ifs. Ais a prime example, as in the movie referenced and this book. Things we do in our teens, or as children. Small things lead to large unforeseen consequences. We live with them our entire lives. They will haunt, consume, and change the course of more than one life.
You want to reach out to our children, (my grandchildren). Be mindful of the small things. They can turn into significant things. One wrong move can lead to disaster.
A cautionary tale. This husband and wife both are troubled and damaged souls. However, they both keep their hidden secrets from one another. Could someone be a hero in the end? Redemption?
Louise, you sure do know how to write a twisty complex tale with juicy dark secrets. When comparing the three main characters, not sure which is more shocking. There are a few close ties here for vote for "most damaged." I mean, seriously.
Plus, we could hold an entire psychological discussion dissecting Kate’s dad and mom.
No matter what surrogate stories you have read in the past, I can pretty much say, you will find NONE, like this one. It takes you by surprise. Grabs you and never let's go.
Who is the real monster? Read, and discover.
Shocking. Spine-tingling. A top psychological thriller. Perfect for book clubs and further discussions.
Jensen is quickly becoming my top UK author. This book needs to be compared, rightly so to The Girl on the Train and then some. 5 Stars +++
Other things about the author (in addition to her fabulous storytelling), which provides her books an added edge. I love learning the inspiration behind the book. She is outstanding about doing this at the end of her books, as well as fantastic thought-provoking book club questions.
THE SURROGATE is definitely movie-worthy, or a mini-series. Congrats, another hit under your belt. Don’t stop now.
Readers, If you loved Coben’s The Five, you will undoubtedly enjoy The Surrogate. Ideal for fans of B.A. Paris, Wendy Walker, and Mary Kubica.
A special thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for an early reading copy. (great cover, as well) Also purchased audiobook narrated by Alex Tregear (currently listening) —an entertaining performance.
JDCMustReadBooks
Louise Jensen is on a roll! Three hits in a row—quite the accomplishment. Her passion shines through. The author’s previous two books reached #1 in the UK and abroad (if you have not heard).
The thriller queen returns following The Gift on my Top Books of 2016 and The Sister (2016) with her latest THE SURROGATE — her best yet!
NOTE to readers: PS. I continue to say, "I am going to keep my reviews short." That way I can write many more reviews. Right? However, when I get started, they seem to go on and on. If you do not feel like reading them; my feelings will not be hurt. Just take my advice, and buy the book. Judge for yourself. I think you will find; there is much to be discussed. The good ones always are. If you spend time reading a book, why not spend just as much time writing a review?
Talk about "unreliable" narrator (s) ! These guys are pros. The author keeps you guessing until the final explosive conclusion with one last jab. Turning the knife a little more. A killer twist.
If you think this is the same ordinary surrogate story? The surrogate tries to keep the baby. Wife disappointed. Husband runs off with the surrogate. . . . "No, think again." Much more complex and multi-layered.
The reader does not know which character they can trust. The characters do not trust one another.
Complex with a Capital “C.” Each character has a secret past, and as the novel progresses, skeletons come out of the closet— one by one. Unraveling. You gasp and say, "WTH?"
This book is high anxiety and happened to be reading it in the middle of a hurricane, which only accelerated the intensity. The author creates clever twists (her master signature style) and keeps you on your toes.
Guilt, loyalty, revenge, love, trust, betrayal, and hate.
An array of emotions. Who is the real guilty party, or is it a combination of people? One wrong action and turn— causes a domino effect. Do you know your friends and your spouse?
“So many lives ruined. What was one more?”
“If you prick us, do we not bleed? If you tickle us, do we not laugh. If you poison us, do we not die? And if you wrong us, shall we not revenge?” — William Shakespeare
As the book opens, there is a reporter. There are two bodies. A double murder?
Meet Kat and Nick. From then to now.
Overall they seem like a nice ordinary couple. Charity work. They have been married for eight years. Stroke Support. A charity Nick set up with his best friend Richard after Richard's grandmother had a stroke.
Kate had been a temp, and this is how they met. They are financially sound. She still works for them, while Richard is busy with his law firm and Nick has a property development company.
Kate wants a baby. Let me correct myself. She is "obsessed" with having a baby. She wants to be a mother. She is getting desperate and running out of patience.
Nick, her husband says he wants one too, but you get a strong feeling, not with the same level of enthusiasm and burning desire, as his wife. Maybe just wants his wife to be happy. She, after all, cannot have children. He can.
Their many attempts have been unsuccessful. From doctors, tests, to adoption agencies. Each time they get close, something falls through at the last minute.
Enter Lisa.
Lisa comes back into Kate’s life after a long absence. A childhood friend. They were BFFs. What happened to separate the two? Is she a friend harboring a grudge, perhaps?
Can Kate trust her? Was this encounter planned or a by chance meeting? Fate? The two were great friends growing up but had a major falling out. We do not know in the earlier part of the book. A mystery. We know there was a car accident that rocked their small town and Kate ran away, leaving Lisa to deal with questions.
One thing Kat knows for sure. It is approaching the 10th anniversary of Jake, her ex-boyfriend’s death. Has fate brought the once best friends back together? Good or bad?
Mistakes are made.
“We learn that Kate is a keeper of secrets. A guardian of the truth.” . . . You mustn’t tell Kate.”
Lisa seems to have been the third wheel in their teen relationship. Very jealous of the relationship Kate had with Jake. Is there more to this story? You better believe it.
Lisa never wanted to be a mother. Kate is dying to be a mother. Lisa said she had been a surrogate previously, and it went well, leaving a seed planted in Kate’s mind. Is she genuine, or not?
Later an adoption falls through once again and Kate wonders, what if? Could this work? Is surrogacy the answer? In the past, she never thought about this option, but Lisa? The person she has known her entire life. This could be a miracle.
You know when you are desperate, you are not thinking clearly and weighing all the options. Desire clouds our thinking.
However, from here on out, nothing is simple. What a roller coaster wild crazy ride. The psychological elements are slow burning to sizzling!
Each reader will have theories about the murders. They will change throughout the book. Lisa is hiding her past. Kate is hiding her past. Now, Nick is hiding his past. (Nick’s is a doozy).
You do not expect this haunting tragedy. This poor guy cannot catch a break. However, in the present, he seems to have it together (to Kate, anyway). Removed. Something is going on with him, and he says work issues.
Kate is heartbroken about a past love. There was a car accident. She came from a very strict family, especially her dad. She lost her shot at motherhood, and love on one fatal night. Does she want revenge? She has never told Nick about her secrets. He has not shared his.
You are dying to know, what happened!
As a reader, you are also unsure about Lisa. Kate suspects something is not quite right with Lisa. She agrees to be a surrogate, but at times she appears to be hiding something. Kate is suspicious. She could ruin her life.
Throw Richard into the mix. He is an attorney and best friend of Nick’s from childhood. Kate gets the feeling Richard does not like her. He always handles their adoption affairs. Can we trust him? Is he sabotaging their chances?
Kate realizes her husband is not so keen on the idea of their upcoming baby. He seems withdrawn. She suspects he may be having an affair. Has she pushed him away with her overwhelming obsession?
Lisa is acting strangely. Is Kate paranoid because she cannot control her own life? She is at the mercy of Lisa. The picture-perfect life she had planned seems to be falling apart.
Who is lying?
“Our version of the truth is pliable, we mold our reality to mask our lies, and sometimes it sounds so plausible we even convince ourselves.”
As the intense suspense builds all three characters’ lives intersect. Except wait a minute. It is not over until the fat lady sings. Just when you think it will end a certain way, BAM . . . an evil twist.
The Butterfly Effect: The butterfly effect is a concept that states "small causes can have larger effects".
If you have seen the movie The Butterfly: (2004) American psychological thriller supernatural fiction film starring, Ashton Kutcher.
“The title refers to the butterfly effect, a popular hypothetical example of chaos theory which illustrates how small initial differences may lead to large unforeseen consequences over time.”
When you finish reading you will be speculating how different things could have been, if. These two are different in many ways but reminds me strongly of-Harlan Coben’s, mini-series, The Five (which I binge-watched this weekend on Netflix on my Kindle). Loved! Top-Notch. One mistake. Again, the butterfly effect. The Sinner is another example (loved this book and mini-series).
People carry guilt their entire lives over certain things. However, we learn shortly after that; there may have been other things, and persons and circumstances at play, which changed the course.
Mind-boggling. However, this person may go through life and never know how each small thing contributed to the tragedy, as well. Where mysteries and missing persons go unsolved; very intriguing.
You've got to love books like this. I know I do. Heart-pounding. Enthralling! Many what-ifs. Ais a prime example, as in the movie referenced and this book. Things we do in our teens, or as children. Small things lead to large unforeseen consequences. We live with them our entire lives. They will haunt, consume, and change the course of more than one life.
You want to reach out to our children, (my grandchildren). Be mindful of the small things. They can turn into significant things. One wrong move can lead to disaster.
A cautionary tale. This husband and wife both are troubled and damaged souls. However, they both keep their hidden secrets from one another. Could someone be a hero in the end? Redemption?
Louise, you sure do know how to write a twisty complex tale with juicy dark secrets. When comparing the three main characters, not sure which is more shocking. There are a few close ties here for vote for "most damaged." I mean, seriously.
Plus, we could hold an entire psychological discussion dissecting Kate’s dad and mom.
No matter what surrogate stories you have read in the past, I can pretty much say, you will find NONE, like this one. It takes you by surprise. Grabs you and never let's go.
Who is the real monster? Read, and discover.
Shocking. Spine-tingling. A top psychological thriller. Perfect for book clubs and further discussions.
Jensen is quickly becoming my top UK author. This book needs to be compared, rightly so to The Girl on the Train and then some. 5 Stars +++
Other things about the author (in addition to her fabulous storytelling), which provides her books an added edge. I love learning the inspiration behind the book. She is outstanding about doing this at the end of her books, as well as fantastic thought-provoking book club questions.
THE SURROGATE is definitely movie-worthy, or a mini-series. Congrats, another hit under your belt. Don’t stop now.
Readers, If you loved Coben’s The Five, you will undoubtedly enjoy The Surrogate. Ideal for fans of B.A. Paris, Wendy Walker, and Mary Kubica.
A special thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for an early reading copy. (great cover, as well) Also purchased audiobook narrated by Alex Tregear (currently listening) —an entertaining performance.
JDCMustReadBooks
September 25, 2017
Oh, baby, what a wild ride! Not that it wasn't expected; after all, I've read and thoroughly enjoyed both of the author's previous books - The Gift and The Sister - so I figured it was a given that this would be a winner as well. As it turns out, this may well be the best of the lot.
My "baby" reference wasn't an accident, either; at the center of the story is a couple - Kat and Nick - who are beyond eager to have a child. Unable to conceive, they've tried, with help from Nick's friend Richard, to adopt infants from other countries. But those fell through at the last minute, leaving Kat despondent and ready to try anything. Enter Lisa, Kat's best friend back in their school days. The two had a major falling out just before their graduation, so Kat is surprised and not altogether happy to see her. But when Lisa drops the bombshell that she served as a surrogate mother for another woman, Kat sees the possibility that she could become a mother after all.
Lisa agrees to help her friend, and Nick puts up little resistance (not nearly as much as I'd have expected coming from your average husband, but then he seems to want a baby almost as much as Kat does). Successfully impregnating Lisa isn't the real problem, though - as readers learn from the chapters that switch between "then" and "now." Clearly, both Lisa and Kat have serious issues - secrets from their past that led to going their separate ways and staying apart for the past decade. And before too long, it becomes clear that Nick may have a few things in his background that he's been reluctant to share as well.
The action is almost nonstop, although it got a little bit bogged down when Kat's paranoia kicks into high gear (but then, you know the old saying - "Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get you"). The last few chapters bring one twist after another - none of which I guessed ahead of time, BTW - eliciting an out-loud "Whew!" from me at the bottom of the final page.
As I proclaimed early on, this one's a winner, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys psychological thrills. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
My "baby" reference wasn't an accident, either; at the center of the story is a couple - Kat and Nick - who are beyond eager to have a child. Unable to conceive, they've tried, with help from Nick's friend Richard, to adopt infants from other countries. But those fell through at the last minute, leaving Kat despondent and ready to try anything. Enter Lisa, Kat's best friend back in their school days. The two had a major falling out just before their graduation, so Kat is surprised and not altogether happy to see her. But when Lisa drops the bombshell that she served as a surrogate mother for another woman, Kat sees the possibility that she could become a mother after all.
Lisa agrees to help her friend, and Nick puts up little resistance (not nearly as much as I'd have expected coming from your average husband, but then he seems to want a baby almost as much as Kat does). Successfully impregnating Lisa isn't the real problem, though - as readers learn from the chapters that switch between "then" and "now." Clearly, both Lisa and Kat have serious issues - secrets from their past that led to going their separate ways and staying apart for the past decade. And before too long, it becomes clear that Nick may have a few things in his background that he's been reluctant to share as well.
The action is almost nonstop, although it got a little bit bogged down when Kat's paranoia kicks into high gear (but then, you know the old saying - "Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get you"). The last few chapters bring one twist after another - none of which I guessed ahead of time, BTW - eliciting an out-loud "Whew!" from me at the bottom of the final page.
As I proclaimed early on, this one's a winner, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys psychological thrills. Many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2017
Nick and Kat are mourning the two failed adoptions they had attempted, when in walks Lisa, a childhood friend of Kat's, providing the solution to their parenting problems by offering to become their surrogate.
This had the ingredients of so many 'surrogate gone wrong' stories, that I admittedly questioned whether I should give this one a try or not. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the same-old surrogate story I had assumed it to be.
Although this tale started off slowly, it soon had me guessing with its many unforeseeable twists and it's red herrings (even though I felt some were unnecessary).
I love it when I get things wrong, the rewarding fruits of an unpredictable read. It had me in it's grips right up until the end.
That ending had my head spinning, with unpredictable twists, one after the other after the other. However, too much of a good thing is not always a good thing. I honestly could've done without the over the top shock factor of that last page.
All in all, apart from the final page, a good read. I enjoyed discovering the hidden secrets and lies, the surprise twists and turns and how incredibly wrong I was in thinking I had this one figured out.
I would like to thank the author, Netgalley and Bookouture for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
This had the ingredients of so many 'surrogate gone wrong' stories, that I admittedly questioned whether I should give this one a try or not. I was pleasantly surprised that this was not the same-old surrogate story I had assumed it to be.
Although this tale started off slowly, it soon had me guessing with its many unforeseeable twists and it's red herrings (even though I felt some were unnecessary).
I love it when I get things wrong, the rewarding fruits of an unpredictable read. It had me in it's grips right up until the end.
That ending had my head spinning, with unpredictable twists, one after the other after the other. However, too much of a good thing is not always a good thing. I honestly could've done without the over the top shock factor of that last page.
All in all, apart from the final page, a good read. I enjoyed discovering the hidden secrets and lies, the surprise twists and turns and how incredibly wrong I was in thinking I had this one figured out.
I would like to thank the author, Netgalley and Bookouture for an arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 17, 2018
This was an easy read, but not wholly satisfying. The story moves quickly, which I liked, but the main character, Kat, got annoying fairly quickly. That being said, I was interested in the story and the mystery, and though the final twist felt a little too orchestrated, I didn't see it coming. This would make for a good holiday read, when you are looking to be entertained and not much more. I would read another book by this author in the future.
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
October 27, 2017
4.5 Stars
Kate and Nick seem to have it all ... except for a child of their own. Two out-of-country adoptions have fallen through and Kate is heartbroken.
A reunion with a childhood friend gives her new hope.
When everyone has secrets, who do you trust? When everyone seems to lie, who do you believe?
I guarantee this one will have you riveted to your chair until the very last word on the very last page. There are so many surprising twists and turns and trying to guess the ending is impossible.... and the ending is a real killer!
The story premise is excellent, and while all characters are not likable, they are credible. Highly recommend this one for anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Kate and Nick seem to have it all ... except for a child of their own. Two out-of-country adoptions have fallen through and Kate is heartbroken.
A reunion with a childhood friend gives her new hope.
When everyone has secrets, who do you trust? When everyone seems to lie, who do you believe?
I guarantee this one will have you riveted to your chair until the very last word on the very last page. There are so many surprising twists and turns and trying to guess the ending is impossible.... and the ending is a real killer!
The story premise is excellent, and while all characters are not likable, they are credible. Highly recommend this one for anyone who likes psychological thrillers.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 2, 2017
Kat and Nick are happily married but have been trying to have a baby for some time now . After two failed attempts at adoption Kat looses all hope but she comes across Lisa ,her old estranged friend. Lisa agrees to become a surrogate for Kat and Nick but does Lisa really want to help them or is seeking revenge for the past.
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is a gripping psychological thriller which keeps you intrigued till the very end. The twists and turns keep on coming with an unexpected ending.
Many thanks to Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
The Surrogate by Louise Jensen is a gripping psychological thriller which keeps you intrigued till the very end. The twists and turns keep on coming with an unexpected ending.
Many thanks to Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
This and more reviews at https://chloesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
September 27, 2017
Ever wanted something so bad you would do anything to get it?
I wanted bookcases so I nagged and nagged until the apartment was finally filled with books houses.
But what Kat wants is a baby. You can’t buy them on Amazon (yet) or make your choice among IKEA baby shelves.
The heart of The Surrogate is motherhood. What it takes, what happens when you’re denied it, when you get cast to be the woman, not the mother. But it is also so much more than that.
Louise Jensen dives so deep into the psyche of a woman whose desire runs deeply into her veins. For personal reasons, this book stirred emotions I did not know I felt, did not know existed, did not know could hurt so bad.
When I read a story, I want them to be realistic, I like to relate, I enjoy to fear, I appreciate the familiarity of the emotions, I relish in living through the pages, I take pleasure in discovering feelings and having my thoughts and beliefs questioned. The Surrogate did all of this and gave me more than I thought I expected.
Oh, I knew I was in for a good read. I fell in love with Louise Jensen’s style with her debut The Sister and I am delighted to let you know the peculiar and atmospheric, absolutely claustrophobic writing is once again au rendez-vous. I dare you to take a look at the beginning and then tear yourself away easily! I know I was unable to. Not that I actually wanted to, haha!
This book is about a life, a regular couple life. Except that life is anything but regular if you scratch the surface, something neither party has ever done. And this tiny life sucks you in and traps you into the pages. I remember talking with friends about how reading was for escapism and they did not understand my fascination for stories about people, about things that could happen to any of us. Well, reading about it makes me feel alive. Alive and kicking, just like a baby. Alive, kicking, breathing, and discovering the world through the eyes of a writer who knows better than me how to express all those different experiences and feelings we get to encounter along the years.
Kat is a typical Jensen character. I was on her side from the start, it was us against the world. Unreliable at times, scared, loved, loving, hoping, Kat let me in on her journey through motherhood. But not only. Because how do you build a future when your past still hunts you?
Every character is built with their strength, their flaws, their suspicions, their inner sanctum and the author let doors appear, one after the other, until you get to know those people so well you could swear they are part of you. Because there’s something to learn from all of them, because the bad guys are not always the ones we think, because the good guys are capable of the worst, because nothing is black and white and all is gray. The perfect gray Louise Jensen paints in her books.
I discovered the power of a past/present narration thanks to Louise Jensen more than a year ago. Gosh, this woman knows where to put her pawns and make them move at the right time for you to feel that undercurrent of unease, to see the light reflect on a silver thread of web slowly forming to create a masterpiece in which every word, every movement, every comma comes together and wraps you up. The Surrogate smothers you until you feel each twitch in your bone, each of the characters’ feelings in your own heart, each of the plot lines unfold to finally set you free.
Except I’ll never be free from this story. I do not want to. I want to cherish the tension. I want to dwell on past mistakes. I want to sing the playlist. I want to ponder over how strong friendships can be. I want to know what it takes to be a mother, and not forget how difficult it can be to become one.
On top of all those emotions, you can find the very issue of surrogacy and the controversy around it. Each country has rules about it and this book definitely raises the question of adoption, the use of surrogates, the needs of childless parents, and the hope of orphans to find a home. A sensible writing and real research only make Kat and her husband Nick’s journey more realistic and painful, Louise Jensen having captured the essence of human beings and their desire for a life to love more than their own. She beautifully describes how those difficult times take a toll on the body and mind of any couple. The Surrogate feels like a testimony of millions of story, familiar and relatable, plunged in a twisted and taut ocean that ends up washing everything away, only leaving the reader soaked in emotions and drenched in feelings.
The tension gradually showed its face and I held my breath for so long I thought I'd forgotten how to breathe and... When I thought I'd reached the ending after so many threads that had left me transfixed, speechless, and hurt, for all that had happened, had not, would not, I was again blown away by another layer of this impossibly intricate and absolutely nailed emotional plot.
The Surrogate is this publishing season’s must-read - a riveting tale of love, given; awaited; hoped for; and poison, dark; impossible to escape. Louise Jensen doesn’t disappoint with her addictive and soul-whispering writing!
This unbiased review was written after receiving a copy from the publisher. Thank you to Bookouture for allowing me to be part of the blog tour.
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