Trapped

by Lillian Duncan

Angelina Matthews has everything—riches, fame, and beauty—until the day she’s kidnapped and trapped in a basement with a madman, wearing only a stained t-shirt. The dirt is his—the blood is hers. Tormented and tortured, she cries out to God. Help comes in the form of Nate Goodman. When their paths cross months later, Nate discovers Angelina is still trapped—not in a basement but in the memories she can’t escape. Nate knows all about being trapped, and getting un-trapped. As an ex-Chicago cop he’s had his own demons to wrestle, but his faith helped him to move forward. He reaches out to Angelina whose paranoid delusions have her trapped still. But are they delusions after all?

Genres: Suspense, Fiction

270 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2019

About the author

Lillian lives in a small town in Ohio with her husband. She writes the type of books she loves to read--mystery and suspense with a touch or two of romance!

Reviews

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this psychological thriller. Duncan takes an unusual approach to suspense, concentrating on being mentally trapped after being kidnapped. I was a bit surprised when Angelina was rescued early on in the novel. That was just the beginning of the suspense, however. Angelina faced ongoing terror as whispered threats continued to follow her. While some people tried to convince Angelina they were only in her mind, the terror was all too real.

I liked the strong Christian message in the novel. The need for salvation and the strength only God can provide was presented clearly. I liked the many suspicious characters Duncan developed, even if some of them were a little over drawn. There were plenty of red herrings in that respect. I liked the subtle romance between Angelina and the policeman who initially came to her rescue.

Duncan's writing style is engaging while being straight forward. While there were no passages of literary magnificence, the well developed plot kept me reading from the suspenseful beginning to the suspenseful end.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that will grab you from the first page, and when you’re a few pages in you begin to think that the story is almost over, but no! Not only is it not over we are offered at least two more sub-plots, and they could stand alone.
If you enjoy books with non-stop action, not being able to guess who is the perpetrator, and even when you think you know, you will be second guessing yourself!
I will be looking for more books by this author!


I received this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to give a positive review.

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading the first few pages of this book made me want to run and hide. The author sent chills down my spine as Angelina lay on a bed tied up. Her abductor is pure evil and the emotional and physical abuse she goes through is hard to read. I loved how the author didn't hold back as she described the toil taken on Angelina's mental health.

Angelina is somewhat of a star because of her wealth. She always lived her life without boundaries and tossed her wealth around as if taunting less fortunate people. They say money can't buy you happiness and Angelina learns a hard lesson regarding that one statement. Her rescue was action packed and gives us a hero named Nate. His determination to save Angelina is worthy of a medal.

Angelina has a long journey ahead of her as she is diagnosed with PTSD. For personal reasons the story was hard for me to read. The good news is this book actually helped me because the author takes Angelina to a support group. There she experiences God like never before. I could easily relate to her struggles and how uncomfortable she felt at the meeting. The people in the group are compassionate and I loved how they welcomed her with love and support. What better place to learn about trust and forgiveness than a place where people don't judge and encourage you with scriptures and friendship.

The author has a few surprises waiting for us in the story which makes for more intrigue and shows how greed can turn a person into following the evil of this world. I loved how Angelina slowly begins to desire a real relationship with God. The scriptures scattered through out the book helps readers understand how God is always there even in our darkest hours.

For those who have been through a traumatic event sometimes we let our mind wander and allow ourselves to feel trapped. We can't get past what happened and we allow that experience to kidnap our existence. This is where we find Angelina as she struggles to be set from her thoughts that keep her isolated from everyone. The title of this book is perfect as it is not just about a kidnapping but the after effects that trap a young woman into feeling useless, not important and deserving of what happened to her. The author has a great way of turning a tragedy into overcoming and being set free.

I loved when one of the people in the support group said, " Don't let whatever happened to you in the past steal your future from you." With the help of God and people surrounding her, will Angelina let go and find freedom and peace? Can she let go of fear and learn to trust God?

This has been one of the best books I've read about PTSD. The author is knowledgeable on this topic and has helped me come to terms with issues from my past that have kept me captive and allowed fear to take over my life. This book goes on my list of top picks for 2019.

"He restoreth my soul." Psalm 23:3

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Losing the most important people in one’s life has a way of forcing a belief in God out of one’s heart and mind. But times of trouble and desperation have a way of forcing people to remember where they came from and to call out to the one true God who created them. For Ange Matthews, this is exactly what happened. When her parents died, she wandered away from God and became a socialite without a purpose or foundation.

However, when a madman traps her and attacks her, she finds herself crying out to God. I could understand how she became the person she did. I can not imagine dealing with my parents dying at a young age. But things liked being trapped have a way of forcing someone to remember what is important in life and who God is.

Also, going through such a traumatic event has a way of holding one hostage in the memories and making it impossible to move on in any direction. But Ange is blessed to have a police officer, Nate Goodman, come to her rescue. Nate is everything I imagine a relatively small community police officer to be. Once Ange’s cousin is able to convince him her cousin is missing, he sets out to find her.

However, he is not satisfied to just rescue her and then vanish. He recognizes the state of mind she is and sets out to help her escape from the torment of her memories. I could only hope to have someone rescue me in that way if I was ever in such a devastating circumstance. I can not say I disliked Ange, to begin with, but I realized she had the potential to become more than a mindless socialite only out to party and have fun.

So if you like to read books about overcoming horrible events to find a new future, check out this book for yourself.

I received a copy of this book for my fair and honest review.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts on Trapped:
This is an amazing book! Just when I thought the book was over (and realized I wasn’t even halfway there yet) a sudden unexpected change happens. I could not stop reading.

The writing style is great. Occasionally maybe a bit wordy but a very good read. I remember being in the just before the middle of the book wondering what the author would fill the rest with since the conflict was resolved. A romance was brewing I knew but surely that wasn’t going to be all that was left?

No disappointment. It wasn’t. There was so much more to go on!

I don’t want to give away the story but I love how she was able to pull up her bootstraps against her anxiety for Carlos and his mother. And you’ll never suspect what happens. Such a great read.

So hard to do justice to this book without giving it all away, but I knew those were not delusions on her part. No one jumps out the window for delusions like that! Okay, so yes some people might but not our main character! Angelina is not crazy.

Highly recommend this book. You’re going to want to grab a copy and curl up under a blanket. But leave the lights on.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started "Trapped" by Lillian Duncan, I felt like I was watching a scene from "Criminal Minds".

"Trapped" by Lillian Duncan is another book that is about a topic that is hard to read about. It is about kidnapping and abuse. I liked the spiritually truths in this novel. The author writes about God never leaving Angelina Matthews and always being there even when she is going through her abuse. It is a simple reminder to us readers that nothing is impossible for God.

This story is about leaving our past behind and not staying trapped in our minds and moving forward.

I like the character Nate Goodman. His part in the story really surprised me. He is more than just an ex-Chicago cop.

I like how Angelina steps out of her comfort zone to help a single mother and her child, now you know I can't tell you have that came about or what happens. But, I can tell you to read this book and you won't be disappointed.

There is abuse mention and guns are shot, but the book isn't really too graphic.

This book is a example that good can come from bad events. But I want to warn readers if you have been in some tragic events, reading this could be a trigger for memories.

I think a sequel telling Nick's story could be another good read!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Donna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

What I think you should know:
Trapped is a Romantic Christian Suspense. Ange Matthews has spent all of her adult life as a socialite, when her cousin reports her as missing only one local cop is willing to look for her. When Nate Goodman recuses Ange from her kidnapper it is only the beginning of her story.

What you might want to know:
When Ange is kidnapped she suffers severe physical and physiological abuse. The trauma that she endured has left her with PTSD. However her trauma is not over with her rescue. I do not know that I would recommend this book to some who had suffered severe physical or emotional abuse.

My thoughts on this book:
I enjoyed Nate and how he used his experience and faith to help others through hard times. How Faith and prayer were shown as a process even after you received an answered prayer/ I enjoyed the growth of Angelina as a person and in her faith. I appreciate how the back story and supporting characters were developed throughout the books. I The Author, Lillian Duncan has written a riveting story that had twist that hit me out of left field.

I received a complimentary copy for this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Tabitha Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always up for a Romantic Suspense book, and this one did not disappoint. Jumping straight into the action and suspense, I wasn’t sure how the author would manage the pace later on. It ended up working perfectly, in my opinion, when the suspense died down and the reader was able to focus on Angelina’s recovery before everything ramped up again.

The Christian message was strong. You’ll never hear me complain that a book was too Christian. Nate has a powerful message to share, and he wants Angelina to allow God into her life.

Lillian Duncan led the story around in a merry chase of suspicious characters and mysterious circumstances. When Angelina starts hearing voices and her recovery comes to a grinding halt, Nate is there to encourage and uplift her. Nate was such a sweet character, I do wish we’d heard more of his story.

Overall, Trapped was an engaging read with well-developed characters and a multi-layered plot. I look forward to more books by this author.

I requested a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Carol Keen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Angelina survived, but now she is trapped in fear. Oh my, how many of us can relate to this even if it wasn't a kidnapping or hostage issue! I did want to yell at times. Folks, if the woman is scared it doesn't matter what you think; she is scared! Thankfully, God has Nate on hand to help her. It's a long slow road to recovery, as well as working to discover is this all physiological, or is this also happening in real-time with a continuing threat?

The writing style is simple and occasionally repetitive, but then again, some of the characters were in shock and not coping well at all, so that may have been intentional.

Duncan worked a very strong Christian and spiritual framework into this novel. It's not short on light romantic suspense, or a refreshing realistic grit to the story. I appreciate that things were not glossed over and watered down but were instead, as raw and emotional as the author dared to give us. In some ways this is almost two books in one, a continuous story as Angelina deals with the aftermath and healing from her experiences.

My copy is from Celebrate Lit and contains my thoughts and feelings about this book, which I leave here freely.

[Betti · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘God promises us beauty for ashes - no matter what caused the ashes in the first place.’

You certainly want to read this book in the daytime, with the doors locked and your phone close by!! Starting with being abducted by a madman, the anxiety almost brings Angelina to her demise. Voices in her dreams and in her car - I almost lost it as well, wondering if this young lady could possibly regain any reasonable semblance of a life.

‘Baby steps start the clock ticking again’ - the phrase given by her therapist encourages Angelina to move forward. A support group brings some help, although I wasn’t sure I trusted some of the people in it. Volunteering brought some purpose and also another sub-plot. Family support seemed smothering at times, but still seemed to be important. Until she was ready to admit she couldn’t do it alone, and needed God’s help, she remained trapped.

This ARC was received through CelebrateLit. The 5 star rating, comments and opinions were not solicited. You don’t want to miss this book!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was DEEP, and was the best yet by Lillian Duncan. I always enjoy the intriguing twists she gives to her stories, and this book did not lack any in the form of twists and turns. I really enjoyed the realistic look into the world of PTSD coupled with the action-packed plot that not only turns your blood cold, but also shows a redemptive, healing journey. The faith message is relevant and not overly preachy, but inspiring. The villain is truly that- I instantly had a mental image and a sadistic, hissing voice for the villain in my mind's eye. Nate and Angelina's journey together through past traumas, redemption, healing, a walk with God, and a slow-blossoming romance was such an enjoyable read. The ending will have you on the edge of your seat! I recommend this one for the suspense/mystery reader, those looking for a book with a realistic, Christian look at PTSD, or a really inspirational yet suspenseful read.


I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are entirely my own.

[Kimmie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading a book by Lillian Duncan, which I am surprised at since she writes mystery/suspense and that is one of my go to genre’s. I really enjoyed this book though! I would definitely say that it can be read as a standalone book. This book starts and captures your attention almost immediately. The book takes some unexpected turns quite early in the book, it was from a different perspective then I have read before. I loved how throughout the book God was the central focus without being forceful.
I think that at some points it was a bit wordy, however, I kind of liked the wordiness. It fit the situations very well. I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for telling a kidnapping story from a different perspective, the relatable characters, and for how Lillian Duncan was able to intertwine God in every aspect of the book. I recommend this book to anyone who likes edge of you seat reads with strong characters and a mystery/thriller that leaves you thinking even after the book is over.

[Becky Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lillian Duncan begins her romantic suspense novel quite eerily so that the reader quickly feels Trapped along with Ange. The action moves very swiftly at first but slows considerably to become more of a refection of self-help and therapy groups. I thought the points made by Duncan were spot on, and I was glad to see the approach she took to recovery. However, during this part of this book, the suspense was temporarily paused so we could adequately view the issues Angelina was dealing with. Eventually, the action picked up again, and the suspense accelerates to a good pace. I appreciated the author’s note at the end. I must say, a certain event causes me to want to pick the author’s brain... (did you REALLY want to do that ?!)
I recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher through Celebrate Lit. This does not affect my opinions, which are solely my responsibility.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trapped by Lillian Duncan is a phenomenal work of romantic suspense. This is the first book that I have read by this author but I have read many books in this genre and I was interested in the premise of this book. I am in awe of the author’s ability to create terrifying situations that seem way too real. Even though I am used to this genre, I had to put this book down many times because it was a bit too intense, especially for reading right before bed. Ms Duncan created a whole cast of characters that were not only interesting but also very suspicious. While reading this book, I kept considering different culprits and never really settled on one up until all was revealed at the end. Readers who love suspense and can deal with very suspenseful, terrifying situations would love this book. I highly recommend it. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is full action, something always happening. We open with an action packed scene that is disturbing.

With that being said I didn’t really love this book. I don’t know if it was the style of writing that just didn’t resonant with me or something else. I do know I noticed a phrase that was repeat at least twice on the same page and then later as well, “if you say so.” It just didn’t seem to fit, I even reread it to see what was going on.

Also, when Nate comes to rescue Ange the immediate talk about God seemed fake to me. Most people wouldn’t just jump right into that when they are working and meeting someone they don’t know. But Nate’s faith was very strong.

I still liked this book it just wasn’t a book I loved. As always, these are my opinions and if the book sounds interesting to you I encourage you to read it and form your own opinion.

A copy of this book was given to me through the Celebrate Lit Team. All opinions are my own.

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book starts out with the main character in captivity in the dark, poked with a knife by a madman. She tries to resist his crazy games, but will the nightmare ever end? Or will it end with her death? When circumstances change, you feel like the adrenalin rush the story began with has lost momentum. But then comes an unexpected twist. And the drama switches gears but keeps you wanting more. Yet a deadly performance is still onstage, just in a different venue. Then comes another surprise development, and as the conclusion nears the author throws in another twist. The novel certainly keeps readers alert and guessing who could be behind Angelina’s torment. Can she ever truly trust anyone? The characters and the plot are well developed and complex. I had to tell my husband about the plot points—too good to keep to myself. Thanks to Celebrate Lit for the book. All opinions are my own.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was intrigued with the back cover for this story and that is what prompted me to read it. It definitely drew me in from the first page and I had to read through to the end to find out if my suspicions were true … who was the bad guy?
I loved the character development of both Nate and Angelina and I especially loved the people in her group (although I was suspicious of more than one of them). I fell in love with the little boy in her class as well as his mom and loved that added, extra element to the story.
Wonderful book with great storylines. I would definitely read more books from this author.
I received a copy of this book from the author but was under no obligation to write a review. All opinions are mine.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trapped

Trapped is a very suspenseful story. The book starts out when Angelina is trying to get away from her kidnapper. Actually that is the first several chapters. I was beginning to wonder if she was going to away.

She was found by Nate, the police officer looking for her. Then she has to deal with PTSD. Being kidnapped would certainly be hard to recover from. Will that be the end of it?

The book was very suspenseful. I also loved how inspirational it was. A very important author note at the end of the book.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tense, gripping, challenging. and redemptive. Trapped is a timely story with relevance and poignancy – an exploration of human nature and how faith is extraordinarily transformative. The author has taken some tough subjects and crafted a series of nicely developed scenarios and characters. Well-paced and current – readers may find some of themselves herein. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so enjoyed this book. I love that it doesn’t just talk about how the victim of a kidnapping might be rescued. It then shows how they react after they are rescued. This was a very good story with a lot of twists and turns. There was a lot of suspense throughout. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Let's start by talking about the cover. I love it! It's dark, raises questions and interest and gives a good indication of the suspense readers will find in the book. I'm still reading this one because the school year has definitely added more crazy to our lives. So far it is an enjoyable and suspenseful read. I am curious about the plot and the characters which makes for a great start.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was SO much more to this book than I expected. And I LOVED the fact that the author included a devotional at the end. Feeling "trapped" is definitely an important part of the storyline.

More review to come ...

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a thrilling Suspense with just the right touch of romance toward the end.