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Dolly Rawlins #3
She's Out (3)
After serving a lengthy sentence for the murder of her husband, Dolly Rawlins is free from prison. And she’s only got one thing on her the diamonds she stashed before the police caught her.
But there are people waiting for Dolly on the outside - tough ex-prisoners who know about the diamonds, and they all want a cut.
Also waiting for Dolly is DS Mike Withey. He holds her personally responsible for the death of his sister in the diamond raid ten years earlier. And he wants her back inside.
Dolly Rawlins has other plans. But can she realise the dream that kept her going all those years in prison and avoid those who are after her?
But there are people waiting for Dolly on the outside - tough ex-prisoners who know about the diamonds, and they all want a cut.
Also waiting for Dolly is DS Mike Withey. He holds her personally responsible for the death of his sister in the diamond raid ten years earlier. And he wants her back inside.
Dolly Rawlins has other plans. But can she realise the dream that kept her going all those years in prison and avoid those who are after her?
352 pages, Hardcover
First published March 10, 1995
496 people are currently reading
2034 people want to read
About the author
Lynda La Plante
125 books1,841 followersLynda La Plante, CBE (born Lynda Titchmarsh) is a British author, screenwriter, and erstwhile actress (her performances in Rentaghost and other programmes were under her stage name of Lynda Marchal), best known for writing the Prime Suspect television crime series.
Her first TV series as a scriptwriter was the six part robbery series Widows, in 1983, in which the widows of four armed robbers carry out a heist planned by their deceased husbands.
In 1991 ITV released Prime Suspect which has now run to seven series and stars Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison. (In the United States Prime Suspect airs on PBS as part of the anthology program Mystery!) In 1993 La Plante won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for her work on the series. In 1992 she wrote at TV movie called Seekers, starring Brenda Fricker and Josette Simon, produced by Sarah Lawson.
She formed her own television production company, La Plante Productions, in 1994 and as La Plante Productions she wrote and produced the sequel to Widows, the equally gutsy She's Out (ITV, 1995). The name "La Plante" comes from her marriage to writer Richard La Plante, author of the book Mantis and Hog Fever. La Plante divorced Lynda in the early 1990s.
Her output continued with The Governor (ITV 1995-96), a series focusing on the female governor of a high security prison, and was followed by a string of ratings pulling miniseries: the psycho killer nightmare events of Trial & Retribution (ITV 1997-), the widows' revenge of the murders of their husbands & children Bella Mafia (1997) (starring Vanessa Redgrave), the undercover police unit operations of Supply and Demand (ITV 1998), videogame/internet murder mystery Killer Net (Channel 4 1998) and the female criminal profiler cases of Mind Games (ITV 2001).
Two additions to the Trial and Retribution miniseries were broadcast during 2006.
Her first TV series as a scriptwriter was the six part robbery series Widows, in 1983, in which the widows of four armed robbers carry out a heist planned by their deceased husbands.
In 1991 ITV released Prime Suspect which has now run to seven series and stars Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison. (In the United States Prime Suspect airs on PBS as part of the anthology program Mystery!) In 1993 La Plante won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for her work on the series. In 1992 she wrote at TV movie called Seekers, starring Brenda Fricker and Josette Simon, produced by Sarah Lawson.
She formed her own television production company, La Plante Productions, in 1994 and as La Plante Productions she wrote and produced the sequel to Widows, the equally gutsy She's Out (ITV, 1995). The name "La Plante" comes from her marriage to writer Richard La Plante, author of the book Mantis and Hog Fever. La Plante divorced Lynda in the early 1990s.
Her output continued with The Governor (ITV 1995-96), a series focusing on the female governor of a high security prison, and was followed by a string of ratings pulling miniseries: the psycho killer nightmare events of Trial & Retribution (ITV 1997-), the widows' revenge of the murders of their husbands & children Bella Mafia (1997) (starring Vanessa Redgrave), the undercover police unit operations of Supply and Demand (ITV 1998), videogame/internet murder mystery Killer Net (Channel 4 1998) and the female criminal profiler cases of Mind Games (ITV 2001).
Two additions to the Trial and Retribution miniseries were broadcast during 2006.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
November 6, 2019
Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
She's Out
By: Lynda La Plante
*REVIEW* 💛💛💛💛
She's Out is the last book of the widows trilogy. This story follows Dolly after her time in jail. I accidentally discovered this series, but I have enjoyed every book. This one is no exception. It's an intriguing well written story with strong memorable characters. I recommend for a different sort of mystery.
She's Out
By: Lynda La Plante
*REVIEW* 💛💛💛💛
She's Out is the last book of the widows trilogy. This story follows Dolly after her time in jail. I accidentally discovered this series, but I have enjoyed every book. This one is no exception. It's an intriguing well written story with strong memorable characters. I recommend for a different sort of mystery.
September 7, 2019
If it sometimes feels like a television movie, that's because La Plante originally wrote the Widows trilogy as a British television series. Widows was a six episode mini-series in the mid 1980's with the novel coming out about the same time. Widows 2 soon joined the success of Widows with another six episodes of a mini-series. As the titles indicate, this series featured the world's most dangerous femme fatale and her team of widows out to finish the capers their husbands started. A decade later, She's Out came out, a new six episode mini-series with a novelization to boot. The Widows franchise also resulted in a star-studded Hollywood movie in 2018.
Now, La Plante has reworked all three novels and they are being re-released to a new Audience. She's Out is a fast moving story that follows Dolly Rawlings years later after she's released from prison and gathers a new gang of tough women criminals. At times, it's a bit of a comic caper and, at times, it's a bit of a soap opera. But, it's a fun fast read. Looking forward to the first two in the series.
Now, La Plante has reworked all three novels and they are being re-released to a new Audience. She's Out is a fast moving story that follows Dolly Rawlings years later after she's released from prison and gathers a new gang of tough women criminals. At times, it's a bit of a comic caper and, at times, it's a bit of a soap opera. But, it's a fun fast read. Looking forward to the first two in the series.
December 6, 2019
My first book by this very prolific writer (the brilliant tv series Prime Suspect is from this author's work) and it will not be my last. A group of ex cons, all women and all with stories of their own, try first to con the lead protagonist out of her hidden fortune then work with her to pull off the biggest heist of their lives. Along the way we discover their humanity as they discover how to trust again. The heist was pulse poundingly good and the end of the book was stunning. Really-- a jaw dropping shocker. I loved it. Five enthusiastic stars!
February 18, 2016
What a steaming pile of crap! Want to read a book that feels like it was written by three day old road kill? A book with too many characters, zero character development, a keystone cops grab-bag of plot twists and an absolutely unbelievable, bizarro heist...oh, and don't let me forget the SHOCKING ending that just comes out of the blue? Well, this turd of a book is it!
Do yourself a favour. Buy a blank exercise book from the supermarket and read it instead of this. I kid you not, if there was MINUS five stars, I'd give them to this abomination.
Do yourself a favour. Buy a blank exercise book from the supermarket and read it instead of this. I kid you not, if there was MINUS five stars, I'd give them to this abomination.
July 4, 2020
Would have been 4 stars, but the ending was a bit of a disappointment, it felt rushed to me.
April 18, 2020
Lynda La Plante is my favourite author and I have loved every book of hers I have read (almost every single one!). She's Out is no exception! The conclusion to the Dolly Rawlins Trilogy was the most exciting book yet. I recommend reading these books in order to get the full impact of the story. Dolly is a hard woman but you can't help hoping she succeeds. Now I'm on to the new DC Jack Warr series. With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my digital copy.
February 26, 2019
Probably my least favorite out of this trilogy but still oh so good. Maybe not the ending I wanted or suspected but upon reflection, I don’t see how it could’ve went down any other way. These may be books about robbery, murder and cons but also about some damn strong women who can handle just about anything.
January 21, 2016
Dreadful. Facile style, no real depth to the characters.
October 31, 2019
She’s Out pleasantly surprised me. It mainly follows Dolly Rawlins, convicted for the murder of her husband, mobster Harry Rawlins, as she’s released from prison. Her fellow recently released prisoner Ester gets wind of Dolly’s release and gets a crew of former inmates together to welcome Dolly, and subsequently, plot to get a cut of the diamonds she’s rumored to have stashed.
The book is fast-paced and not overly predictable. The plot changes gears a number of times, and just when you think you know where it’s going, it switches again. The premise reminded me of the Ocean’s series. I liked the style and how it alternated perspectives between each of the women involved.
Going into the book I was unaware that it had previously been a tv series in the 1980s. It was recently reworked as a novel by author Lydia LaPlante.
The book is fast-paced and not overly predictable. The plot changes gears a number of times, and just when you think you know where it’s going, it switches again. The premise reminded me of the Ocean’s series. I liked the style and how it alternated perspectives between each of the women involved.
Going into the book I was unaware that it had previously been a tv series in the 1980s. It was recently reworked as a novel by author Lydia LaPlante.
September 26, 2022
Boy, can she tell a story!
November 17, 2019
A solid four-star read and a very good final instalment in the series.
Despite her flaws I find myself hoping Dolly will come out on the winning side. An extremely clever plot, supported by an almost entirely female cast of severely flawed characters. Some likeable others loathable but they add great depth to the story. A few loose ends and a sudden ending were my reasons for four instead of five stars.
As a reader it is always good to have a resolution (whether it’s the one you want or not) but nothing is left hanging in the air.
Despite her flaws I find myself hoping Dolly will come out on the winning side. An extremely clever plot, supported by an almost entirely female cast of severely flawed characters. Some likeable others loathable but they add great depth to the story. A few loose ends and a sudden ending were my reasons for four instead of five stars.
As a reader it is always good to have a resolution (whether it’s the one you want or not) but nothing is left hanging in the air.
April 16, 2020
She's Out
is my first book by prolific writer Lynda La Plante (the brilliant TV series, Prime Suspect - The Tennison series, is from this author). Even though this is the last book in the Widows trilogy featuring Dolly Rawlins, I'm really pleased I decided to take a chance with it.
A bunch of female ex convicts, all with their own stories to tell, try to swindle the lead protagonist out of her hidden diamond fortune, then find themselves working with her to negotiate their hugest heist yet. The reader is rewarded with glimpses of their benevolence en route, as they discover how to trust again. Even though She's Out is book three in the series and I have yet to read the previous two books, Widows and Widows 2, I still really enjoyed it as the plot was wonderfully executed with its swift pacing. Complete with its cracking denouement, a thrilling jaw-dropper, this was an all round marvellous read, if a little dated.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Zaffre via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
A bunch of female ex convicts, all with their own stories to tell, try to swindle the lead protagonist out of her hidden diamond fortune, then find themselves working with her to negotiate their hugest heist yet. The reader is rewarded with glimpses of their benevolence en route, as they discover how to trust again. Even though She's Out is book three in the series and I have yet to read the previous two books, Widows and Widows 2, I still really enjoyed it as the plot was wonderfully executed with its swift pacing. Complete with its cracking denouement, a thrilling jaw-dropper, this was an all round marvellous read, if a little dated.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Zaffre via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
November 7, 2019
This is a book about greed. Dolly Rawlins has a fortune in diamonds and everybody wants them. Dolly Rawlins is the widow of the mob boss who hatched the plot to steal a fortune in diamonds. She is also the one who was sent to prison for murdering her husband. Ester Freeman was sent to prison when the brothel she owned was raided. Metropolitan Police Detective Sergeant Mike Withey was assigned by his superior to link Dolly to the diamond heist and arrest her, sending her back to prison. Unfortunately, his mother, Audrey, has her own link to the diamonds.
A fortune in diamonds and everyone had dreams of what they will do once they—and they alone—get their hands on the diamonds. Dolly is drawn as a very sympathetic character about whom I cared. The others—not so much!
The first half of the book has the feel of a farce—the kind of comic drama one would find in the movie “The Lavender Hill Mob”. I really enjoyed the wry humor that dotted the landscape. Then, about half way into the book, the plot changes, becoming darker moving toward an ending I had not expected. I did not care for it as much as the rest of the book.
The best thing about the book is that since the book was originally published in 1995, one can see how much the author has improved in her craft. Those who read “SHE’S OUT” looking for the kind of drama found in the Jane Tennison books will find this one less than satisfying. Those only interested in a good read with some thrills and perhaps an unanticipated wry smile or two will enjoy it.
I received this book free from Bookish with the expectation of an honest review.
A fortune in diamonds and everyone had dreams of what they will do once they—and they alone—get their hands on the diamonds. Dolly is drawn as a very sympathetic character about whom I cared. The others—not so much!
The first half of the book has the feel of a farce—the kind of comic drama one would find in the movie “The Lavender Hill Mob”. I really enjoyed the wry humor that dotted the landscape. Then, about half way into the book, the plot changes, becoming darker moving toward an ending I had not expected. I did not care for it as much as the rest of the book.
The best thing about the book is that since the book was originally published in 1995, one can see how much the author has improved in her craft. Those who read “SHE’S OUT” looking for the kind of drama found in the Jane Tennison books will find this one less than satisfying. Those only interested in a good read with some thrills and perhaps an unanticipated wry smile or two will enjoy it.
I received this book free from Bookish with the expectation of an honest review.
October 22, 2019
This is not my first time reading this author, but this book was not like her previous books, it was very slow and hard to get into. I felt like the last 50 pages or so were the only parts that the reader actually needed to read or that the reader actually felt like something was happening to grab their attention.
There were a lot of characters in this book and it was a little hard to follow at times. The main character Dolly, had a lot going on and at times it exhausted the reader. It made the reader want to throw the book against the wall and wish for a chart of characters to be listed in the beginning of the book. Dolly set the entire story into motion and I personally didn't like Dolly. It was hard to want to root for her or to see her succeed because she leaves a terrible taste in the reader's mouths.
The story has about 25 sub-stories or plots throughout and the reader has to really concentrate to stay on top of things in this one. I lost my train of thought several times and that made the book a bit stilted instead of a smooth flow. Not my favorite by far, and I will think twice before moving one of this authors books to the top of my TBR list.
There were a lot of characters in this book and it was a little hard to follow at times. The main character Dolly, had a lot going on and at times it exhausted the reader. It made the reader want to throw the book against the wall and wish for a chart of characters to be listed in the beginning of the book. Dolly set the entire story into motion and I personally didn't like Dolly. It was hard to want to root for her or to see her succeed because she leaves a terrible taste in the reader's mouths.
The story has about 25 sub-stories or plots throughout and the reader has to really concentrate to stay on top of things in this one. I lost my train of thought several times and that made the book a bit stilted instead of a smooth flow. Not my favorite by far, and I will think twice before moving one of this authors books to the top of my TBR list.
October 29, 2019
Dolly Rawlins has finished serving her prison sentence for killing her husband. She's done her time, but the police and some of her "friends" aren't willing for that to be that. They know she masterminded the last robbery her husband ran. They are positive she has the diamonds from that robbery, or knows where they are. They want those diamonds or the money they can make selling them. All Dolly wants is a quiet life, maybe helping foster children if she can.
Instead of the quiet terrace house she planned, Dolly is bamboozled into buy an old mansion. It has plenty of room, but almost needs a complete remodel. It also used to be a house of ill repute, so getting the licenses to open it to child care is difficult. The diamonds have been stolen and sold. Dolly needs cash in the worst way. She falls back on what she knows best, armed robbery. It worked once, so she whips the bunch of women who welcomed her out of jail and who wanted to swindle the missing diamonds from her into a crew who carried out an audacious robbery of a mail train carrying millions. They are successful but lack of trust causes serious trouble.
This is the final book in the Widows trilogy. It is a very British story. Some of the language can throw you if you think in American terms while reading it. I have read enough English crime novels so that I just switch vernacular and carry on. I enjoyed watching Dolly create the conditions that convinced the women who wanted to steal from her to steal for her. I thought it was a good ending to the story.
I received the copy of the book I read for this review from BookishFirst.
Instead of the quiet terrace house she planned, Dolly is bamboozled into buy an old mansion. It has plenty of room, but almost needs a complete remodel. It also used to be a house of ill repute, so getting the licenses to open it to child care is difficult. The diamonds have been stolen and sold. Dolly needs cash in the worst way. She falls back on what she knows best, armed robbery. It worked once, so she whips the bunch of women who welcomed her out of jail and who wanted to swindle the missing diamonds from her into a crew who carried out an audacious robbery of a mail train carrying millions. They are successful but lack of trust causes serious trouble.
This is the final book in the Widows trilogy. It is a very British story. Some of the language can throw you if you think in American terms while reading it. I have read enough English crime novels so that I just switch vernacular and carry on. I enjoyed watching Dolly create the conditions that convinced the women who wanted to steal from her to steal for her. I thought it was a good ending to the story.
I received the copy of the book I read for this review from BookishFirst.
December 6, 2019
This is the first book I have read from this author and it is the last book of a series. The author did a great job tying in information from the past books so I could catch up and understand what was going on. I really liked Dolly. She had been through hell, however was one tough broad. When she is released from prison, she thinks she has diamonds waiting for her. She finds out that the diamonds have been stolen and the mother of one of the past allies is to blame. Mike is the brother of the same ally that ended up dead and is a cop that tries to seek revenge. He is pulled into the scheme and Dolly has quite the group of women that are all going to pull off a huge train heist. The story was incredibly compelling and I loved how all of the pieces came together in the end. I am now going to have to go back and read the rest of the books and see the movie. I will be recommending this book to others.
December 24, 2020
This was a fitting end to the Dolly Rawlings Widows Series. This book starts when Dolly is about to get out of prison after killing her crime-lord husband Harry. She is determined to start her new life with the jewels from the robbery that killed her friend Shirley. Shirley's mother, however, blames Dolly for everything and ropes in her police officer son to try to get Dolly put back in prison.
At the same time, some of the women from the prison throw Dolly a "She's Out" party. In reality they all want a slice of the jewels.
I really enjoyed this book. It did not stack up to the first book, which I absolutely loved, but was still a great end to the series.
At the same time, some of the women from the prison throw Dolly a "She's Out" party. In reality they all want a slice of the jewels.
I really enjoyed this book. It did not stack up to the first book, which I absolutely loved, but was still a great end to the series.
October 2, 2023
4.99 ★ rounded to 5★
I think I can easily say that the Widows trilogy is one of my favorite of all time. This third book didn't disappoint me at all with another well-crafted thriller. I read it in only two days for how good it was. I really couldn't put it down. It's not a full 5★ because one character felt shoehorned in and the ending felt rushed but other than that? PERFECTION. I'll definitely read the spin-off series.
I think I can easily say that the Widows trilogy is one of my favorite of all time. This third book didn't disappoint me at all with another well-crafted thriller. I read it in only two days for how good it was. I really couldn't put it down. It's not a full 5★ because one character felt shoehorned in and the ending felt rushed but other than that? PERFECTION. I'll definitely read the spin-off series.
October 28, 2019
I received this book in a Bookish first giveaway. I did not enjoy this book as much as other books I have read from this author. The story had a lot of characters and I found it difficult to keep up with all of them. The ending was a bit of a disappointment. This was the third book in a trilogy and I did not read the other two. I don't think I will go back and read them but I will read this author again because I have enjoyed other books she has written.
December 5, 2019
This was a good book, it was kind of all over the place with the story line, but all in all was a good read.
July 27, 2019
After book 2 I wasn’t sure where the story could go but this was really good and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Lost 1 star as the ending was a bit disappointing for me.
November 24, 2019
this book was a five star for sure :) 💕💕📖📖😍💕📖😋📚📚📚📚🤭🤭🤗🤗 Dolly Rawlins is finally free from prison after years of being in there for killing her Husband but before the police got her she had hid some diamonds and that’s the only thing on her mind right now that’s she is free but shouldn’t she be worried about the people that’s after her a group of tough Ex - Prisoners who know all about the diamonds that she is stashed and they all intend on getting a cut too . And not only that’s another man holds her responsible for his sisters death years before during the diamond raid that was taken place . Seems to me she better get the diamond and run before she looses her life herself . !! This is definitely the most awesome ready and everyone should read this book .
November 24, 2019
This is a non-stop thriller that follows a group of post-convict women as they bounce from one criminal plot to another. They're a really diverse group with all kinds of quirks and problems but they come together to pull off the really big heist. There are lots of twists and turns in the story and it kept me reading to the final jarring end.
I didn't realize until I had finished this book that this author had written one of my very favorite characters, Jane Tennison of 'Prime Suspect'. Now I have a whole new book series to look for.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I didn't realize until I had finished this book that this author had written one of my very favorite characters, Jane Tennison of 'Prime Suspect'. Now I have a whole new book series to look for.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
October 11, 2019
I am a big fan of Prime Suspect and love the 'Tennison' series by Lynda La Plante so was looking forward to reading the Dolly Rawlins books. Maybe an error but I started with book 3 in the series 'She's out' which starts with Dolly Rawlins being released from prison after serving a lengthy sentence for the murder of her husband. She is now focused on collecting the six million in diamonds she stashed prior to her imprisonment.
Dolly is met by a welcome home committee of women who served time with her and also have plans on her diamonds.
This was a difficult one for me to review, I enjoyed much of the book and certainly enjoyed it but found the plot to difficult to believe. This is a rehash of an older novel and perhaps was a little dated.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Zaffre for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Dolly is met by a welcome home committee of women who served time with her and also have plans on her diamonds.
This was a difficult one for me to review, I enjoyed much of the book and certainly enjoyed it but found the plot to difficult to believe. This is a rehash of an older novel and perhaps was a little dated.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Zaffre for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2019
3.5 stars
I do love a book by Lynda La Plante however while this was not one of her better books, it was still worth a read.
The story picks up after Dolly is released from prison and tells the tale of how she orchestrates the robbery of a mail train with a hunch if ex cons who don't trust her or each other.
I do love a book by Lynda La Plante however while this was not one of her better books, it was still worth a read.
The story picks up after Dolly is released from prison and tells the tale of how she orchestrates the robbery of a mail train with a hunch if ex cons who don't trust her or each other.
October 30, 2019
You can let a person out of jail, but can said person ever truly be free? Dolly Rawlins was a model prisoner that stuck to herself. Imprisoned for murdering her husband, she paid her debt to society and had lofty dreams of opening a home for orphans. She knew it would not be easy, but having worked with young mothers while in prison and watching the system take away their babies, she knew she wanted to turn her life around by giving back to those who needed her the most.
A group of former inmates have a different plan. Dolly is rumored to have a cache of diamonds hidden from a heist that she was suspected of stashing before her arrest and they wanted a piece of that haul. Hiding their motive by generously offering Dolly a place to stay while she gets back on her feet, each of women dreamed of wealth. Dolly is a smart cookie, realizing the women are plotting something. She is cunning enough to know she needs a place to stay under the radar. When one of the women offers to sell her the old Victorian Grange Manor House, Dolly jumps at the chance. On the surface, it seems perfect to spruce up and turn into a home for children. Unfortunately, the authorities are not on board with a house that used to be a brothel used to house children. Coupled with Dolly’s past, they dashed her dreams.
Dolly still has the diamonds, kept safe by an old acquaintance – or so she thinks. When she begins to make inquiries, Dolly finds out she has been double crossed. Then she comes to the realization that society will never forget her past or allow her to move on. A heist of monumental proportions is the only thing that will set her free.
She’s Out is an intriguingly intricate tale of women that each have their own agenda. They agree they don’t necessarily like each other, but need each other. The story pulled me in immediately, and by the end of the novel, the page-turning plot was impossible to put down until the last words were read. Some novels keep popping up in my mind long after the last pages – this is one of them.
The last book in a trilogy, She’s Out reads perfectly as a stand-alone novel. I have not read the previous two books, but did not feel lost or confused at any point in the book. Ms. La Plante is an acclaimed writer, screenwriter, actress and producer. Her books have been adapted to movies as well as television series. Bibliophiles who love fabulously written fast-paced thrillers and have not read her works should dive into one of her books. If you are already a fan, She’s Out is a must read. I cannot wait to read her new book, Buried, which is coming in March 2020.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Bookish First (https://www.bookishfirst.com/)in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2019 Laura Hartman
A group of former inmates have a different plan. Dolly is rumored to have a cache of diamonds hidden from a heist that she was suspected of stashing before her arrest and they wanted a piece of that haul. Hiding their motive by generously offering Dolly a place to stay while she gets back on her feet, each of women dreamed of wealth. Dolly is a smart cookie, realizing the women are plotting something. She is cunning enough to know she needs a place to stay under the radar. When one of the women offers to sell her the old Victorian Grange Manor House, Dolly jumps at the chance. On the surface, it seems perfect to spruce up and turn into a home for children. Unfortunately, the authorities are not on board with a house that used to be a brothel used to house children. Coupled with Dolly’s past, they dashed her dreams.
Dolly still has the diamonds, kept safe by an old acquaintance – or so she thinks. When she begins to make inquiries, Dolly finds out she has been double crossed. Then she comes to the realization that society will never forget her past or allow her to move on. A heist of monumental proportions is the only thing that will set her free.
She’s Out is an intriguingly intricate tale of women that each have their own agenda. They agree they don’t necessarily like each other, but need each other. The story pulled me in immediately, and by the end of the novel, the page-turning plot was impossible to put down until the last words were read. Some novels keep popping up in my mind long after the last pages – this is one of them.
The last book in a trilogy, She’s Out reads perfectly as a stand-alone novel. I have not read the previous two books, but did not feel lost or confused at any point in the book. Ms. La Plante is an acclaimed writer, screenwriter, actress and producer. Her books have been adapted to movies as well as television series. Bibliophiles who love fabulously written fast-paced thrillers and have not read her works should dive into one of her books. If you are already a fan, She’s Out is a must read. I cannot wait to read her new book, Buried, which is coming in March 2020.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Bookish First (https://www.bookishfirst.com/)in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2019 Laura Hartman
March 28, 2020
Dolly Rawlins returns in Lynda La Plante’s final instalment in the trilogy, following ‘Widows’ and ‘Widows’ Revenge’.
‘She’s Out’ was originally published in 1995, a novelisation of the TV series of the same name, which served as a sequel and conclusion to the TV series ‘Widows’, which aired two seasons in 1983 and 1985. Much like the two novels before it, ‘She’s Out’ was out-of-print for many years, though was reprinted recently and thus not as rare as copies of the first two books, prior to the publication of this newly revised version to follow the republication of the first two novels.
(Warning: contains spoilers for ‘Widows’ and ‘Widows’ Revenge’)
After spending nine years in prison for the murder of her husband, Dolly is soon to be released. Her dreams of starting afresh and opening a home for disadvantaged children have kept her going throughout her sentence, with the proceeds of the diamond heist safely hidden away awaiting her release.
But Dolly isn’t the only one awaiting her release. Ester Freeman is busy gathering a group of women together on the outside, women who served time with Dolly and have all heard the rumours about the diamonds that the police were never able to recover. Also waiting for Dolly is DS Mike Withey, who holds her responsible for death of his sister, Shirley Miller. Unbeknownst to him, his mother, Audrey, is complicit in the disappearance of the stolen diamonds.
On her release, Dolly finds that Ester has made arrangements for her. Chauffeured to a remote manor house, Dolly is immediately suspicious. But Ester assures her she and the other women only have Dolly’s best interests at heart and that the manor house will be perfect for Dolly’s plans. On the spur of the moment, Dolly purchases the property, only afterwards discovering the amount of work that will be required. Ester has cleaned her out; now she must retrieve the diamonds. As the women continue their elaborate con and Mike persuades his superiors they should be paying close attention to Dolly Rawlins, Dolly begins the process of pursuing her dream of opening the manor to help children.
But the cracks soon begin to appear. Dolly’s criminal record, the presence of the other women and continued police harassment threaten to bring her dreams crashing down, while the risks she takes to retrieve the diamonds may prove fruitless. Backed into a corner, unsure who she can trust, Dolly begins making a different plan – to commit a dangerous and audacious robbery of a mail train transporting millions of pounds. But with so much mistrust and double-crossing, Dolly’s carefully laid plans threaten to unravel with tragic, violent consequences.
Full of flawed and intriguing characters, the novel explores the often-tragic stories of women pulled into a life of crime, continuing a theme firmly established in the first series/novel. The characters and their stories are at the novel’s heart, which asks both how many of them are ‘real’ criminals; and how possible is it for someone to truly be able to rehabilitate themselves? Both questions are as significant to our society twenty-five years later as they were at the time of original broadcast/publication, if not more so.
After her time inside, Dolly is colder, harder, less trusting, and still wracked with guilt. Despite his betrayal and her subsequent revenge against him, Dolly still misses Harry dreadfully. Her memories of him and the other widows allow us brief glimpses beneath her exterior and we are rooting for her throughout. On TV, Ann Mitchell returned as Dolly, showcasing the quality that the right mix of writing and acting can bring to the performance of a character.
Captivating throughout, ‘She’s Out’ hurtles relentlessly towards its devastating denouement, the final chapters full of action, tension and emotion, concluding the trilogy in a satisfying, intense and ultimately fitting way.
‘She’s Out’ was originally published in 1995, a novelisation of the TV series of the same name, which served as a sequel and conclusion to the TV series ‘Widows’, which aired two seasons in 1983 and 1985. Much like the two novels before it, ‘She’s Out’ was out-of-print for many years, though was reprinted recently and thus not as rare as copies of the first two books, prior to the publication of this newly revised version to follow the republication of the first two novels.
(Warning: contains spoilers for ‘Widows’ and ‘Widows’ Revenge’)
After spending nine years in prison for the murder of her husband, Dolly is soon to be released. Her dreams of starting afresh and opening a home for disadvantaged children have kept her going throughout her sentence, with the proceeds of the diamond heist safely hidden away awaiting her release.
But Dolly isn’t the only one awaiting her release. Ester Freeman is busy gathering a group of women together on the outside, women who served time with Dolly and have all heard the rumours about the diamonds that the police were never able to recover. Also waiting for Dolly is DS Mike Withey, who holds her responsible for death of his sister, Shirley Miller. Unbeknownst to him, his mother, Audrey, is complicit in the disappearance of the stolen diamonds.
On her release, Dolly finds that Ester has made arrangements for her. Chauffeured to a remote manor house, Dolly is immediately suspicious. But Ester assures her she and the other women only have Dolly’s best interests at heart and that the manor house will be perfect for Dolly’s plans. On the spur of the moment, Dolly purchases the property, only afterwards discovering the amount of work that will be required. Ester has cleaned her out; now she must retrieve the diamonds. As the women continue their elaborate con and Mike persuades his superiors they should be paying close attention to Dolly Rawlins, Dolly begins the process of pursuing her dream of opening the manor to help children.
But the cracks soon begin to appear. Dolly’s criminal record, the presence of the other women and continued police harassment threaten to bring her dreams crashing down, while the risks she takes to retrieve the diamonds may prove fruitless. Backed into a corner, unsure who she can trust, Dolly begins making a different plan – to commit a dangerous and audacious robbery of a mail train transporting millions of pounds. But with so much mistrust and double-crossing, Dolly’s carefully laid plans threaten to unravel with tragic, violent consequences.
Full of flawed and intriguing characters, the novel explores the often-tragic stories of women pulled into a life of crime, continuing a theme firmly established in the first series/novel. The characters and their stories are at the novel’s heart, which asks both how many of them are ‘real’ criminals; and how possible is it for someone to truly be able to rehabilitate themselves? Both questions are as significant to our society twenty-five years later as they were at the time of original broadcast/publication, if not more so.
After her time inside, Dolly is colder, harder, less trusting, and still wracked with guilt. Despite his betrayal and her subsequent revenge against him, Dolly still misses Harry dreadfully. Her memories of him and the other widows allow us brief glimpses beneath her exterior and we are rooting for her throughout. On TV, Ann Mitchell returned as Dolly, showcasing the quality that the right mix of writing and acting can bring to the performance of a character.
Captivating throughout, ‘She’s Out’ hurtles relentlessly towards its devastating denouement, the final chapters full of action, tension and emotion, concluding the trilogy in a satisfying, intense and ultimately fitting way.
July 5, 2024
Хотіла дізнатися чим все завершиться, хоч і минуло вже чотири роки з часу покупки книги. Але яке ж це було розчарування.
Від самого початку з'являється велика кількість героїв, тому дуже важко зорієнтуватися хто вони. Розвитку характерів героїв немає, тому не виникає ніякої прив'язаності до них. Події розвиваються з неймовірною швидкістю, що просто не встигаєш звикнути до однієї сюжетної події, як відразу авторка показує іншу. Через це тяжко сфокусуватися на історії. Було відчуття ніби це кадри з фільму, які постійно змінюються. А в кінці книги дізналася, що спочатку вийшов серіал, а вже потім була написана книга.
Головна героїня тільки вийшла з в'язниці і даремно часу не витрачає, але її дії дещо дивні: не маючи діамантів на руках, вона вже домовляється про ремонт будинку, який придбала в перший день на свободі, хоча й була трохи під дією алкоголю(серйозно?). Загалом все настільки легко для героїні, що відчуття напруги, небезпеки відсутні, тому протягом всієї книги зрозуміло, що все вдасться, бо героїні виходить сухою з води завжди. Вона завжди попереду поліцейських на крок. В деяких моментах з поліцейських було навіть смішно. Зі слів інших героїв Доллі має бути досить небезпечною, але цього не відчувалося. Одна з дівчат її зрадила, зливавши інформацію поліцейському, але Доллі швидко її пробачила, хоча й грозилася, що тим, хто зрадить, буде погано.
В першій половині книги все настільки швидко відбувається, що ще до середини книги відомо, що сталося з діамантами. А потім героїня вирішує провернути ще одне пограбування. Тут вже події стали трохи повільнішими, але в останні 2-3 розділів запхано знову всього багато. Пограбування вдається (хоча вони ще були неготові, але треба було діяти), ніби все добре, вони поза підозрою, але одна з дівчат, підслухавши розмову Доллі з поліцейськими, буквально декілька фраз (можливо, потрібно було б довше підслухати їх?), вирішує, що Доллі хоче їх кинути, тому вона її вбиває, а її арештовують. Для чого все це було? Награбовані гроші так ніхто й не забрав зі сховку. Доля решти героїв залишилася невідомою.
Від самого початку з'являється велика кількість героїв, тому дуже важко зорієнтуватися хто вони. Розвитку характерів героїв немає, тому не виникає ніякої прив'язаності до них. Події розвиваються з неймовірною швидкістю, що просто не встигаєш звикнути до однієї сюжетної події, як відразу авторка показує іншу. Через це тяжко сфокусуватися на історії. Було відчуття ніби це кадри з фільму, які постійно змінюються. А в кінці книги дізналася, що спочатку вийшов серіал, а вже потім була написана книга.
Головна героїня тільки вийшла з в'язниці і даремно часу не витрачає, але її дії дещо дивні: не маючи діамантів на руках, вона вже домовляється про ремонт будинку, який придбала в перший день на свободі, хоча й була трохи під дією алкоголю(серйозно?). Загалом все настільки легко для героїні, що відчуття напруги, небезпеки відсутні, тому протягом всієї книги зрозуміло, що все вдасться, бо героїні виходить сухою з води завжди. Вона завжди попереду поліцейських на крок. В деяких моментах з поліцейських було навіть смішно. Зі слів інших героїв Доллі має бути досить небезпечною, але цього не відчувалося. Одна з дівчат її зрадила, зливавши інформацію поліцейському, але Доллі швидко її пробачила, хоча й грозилася, що тим, хто зрадить, буде погано.
В першій половині книги все настільки швидко відбувається, що ще до середини книги відомо, що сталося з діамантами. А потім героїня вирішує провернути ще одне пограбування. Тут вже події стали трохи повільнішими, але в останні 2-3 розділів запхано знову всього багато. Пограбування вдається (хоча вони ще були неготові, але треба було діяти), ніби все добре, вони поза підозрою, але одна з дівчат, підслухавши розмову Доллі з поліцейськими, буквально декілька фраз (можливо, потрібно було б довше підслухати їх?), вирішує, що Доллі хоче їх кинути, тому вона її вбиває, а її арештовують. Для чого все це було? Награбовані гроші так ніхто й не забрав зі сховку. Доля решти героїв залишилася невідомою.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2019
I wanted to read this book because it was a thriller, and I absolutely love thrillers. This one did not disappoint.
The reason why I love thrillers so much is due to all the twists and turns.
There are several characters who contribute to the lead protagonist. First, you, of course, have Dolly, the "she" referred to in the Title. She is out of jail after her crimes from previous books. The back story, which I assume is what the other books from her are about . . . they're incredible and almost unbelievable. Dolly has a collection of diamonds she stole, and they've been waiting for her since she went to jail.
Although I did not read any of her other novels, I did not feel like I was missing out on any major story. She touches on the other books enough that I understand what happened and why it's relevant to this story.
All around Dolly are these different women who are all desperate to get out of their current situation. We go through their backstories and enter into their lives to see why it's so important they get away from their situations. The stories they weave create a web -- with Dolly in the middle. It's clear that's not where she wants to be, but she eventually relents and allows them to help her.
It CAN be difficult to follow, as we follow all the girls in this story, not just Dolly. But once you understand it's more than one narrator it's easy to grasp, and you end up craving the different points of view.
So many juicy twists and turns, and I really did not see most of them coming. I thought this was a fantastic introduction to this author, and I'm left eager to read more of her novels and learn more about these girls as well as the other three widows she committed the diamond heist with.
The reason why I love thrillers so much is due to all the twists and turns.
There are several characters who contribute to the lead protagonist. First, you, of course, have Dolly, the "she" referred to in the Title. She is out of jail after her crimes from previous books. The back story, which I assume is what the other books from her are about . . . they're incredible and almost unbelievable. Dolly has a collection of diamonds she stole, and they've been waiting for her since she went to jail.
Although I did not read any of her other novels, I did not feel like I was missing out on any major story. She touches on the other books enough that I understand what happened and why it's relevant to this story.
All around Dolly are these different women who are all desperate to get out of their current situation. We go through their backstories and enter into their lives to see why it's so important they get away from their situations. The stories they weave create a web -- with Dolly in the middle. It's clear that's not where she wants to be, but she eventually relents and allows them to help her.
It CAN be difficult to follow, as we follow all the girls in this story, not just Dolly. But once you understand it's more than one narrator it's easy to grasp, and you end up craving the different points of view.
So many juicy twists and turns, and I really did not see most of them coming. I thought this was a fantastic introduction to this author, and I'm left eager to read more of her novels and learn more about these girls as well as the other three widows she committed the diamond heist with.
October 29, 2019
Finally, after eight long years in prison for killing her husband, Dolly Rawlins has been released. There isn’t a lot of fanfare, but her fellow inmates make it clear that they will miss her and her advocacy programs that she established in prison. Dolly leaves prison with the idea that she will retrieve her stash of stolen diamonds, fence them and start a home for children of the imprisoned. Fine ideals! She is thwarted in her efforts throughout the book, and that is what the plot is mostly about. Dolly is trying to get to her diamonds and others are trying to trap her or trick her. The book was good with a surprising twist at the end that left me gasping. The characters that were well developed were Dolly and DS Mike Withey, a policeman who is seeking revenge on behalf of his sister. None of the characters was particularly likable, but they all came together to make a book that was entertaining and at times explosive. Fans of Lynda LaPlante will not want to miss out on this one, and readers of crime novels and police procedural will find it fascinating. Although this book may be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend that readers read the other two books in the Widows series first.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Bookishfirst. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
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