Abandoned: A novel of survival

by Jeanette Mccarthy

Imagine being castaway on a remote uninhabited island. But forget palm trees and golden sand. This is not some tropical paradise, but a bleak island in the north Atlantic, in the middle of winter. And the castaway is Tess, a shop assistant, a woman so timid and ineffectual that she’ll need a miracle to survive. DS Calum Fisher is the Leicester detective assigned to investigate Tess’s disappearance. On the face of it, it appears she’s simply run away, but Cal senses something’s not quite right, especially with Tess’s boyfriend, Mike. Mike is an ex-soldier struggling with the demons of his past, demons that he fears one day will he will no longer be able to control …

292 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2008

Reviews

[Kelly Davey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely brilliant

This book has everything. Its fast paced, full of adventure and an exciting read. The story is well thought out and perfectly executed. The character's are so suited to the book and your opinions of them change throughout the book.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

A different sort of book for me but I did enjoy it.

[Leona Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this. The story was very different to what I expected and yet it kept me engrossed throughout. Delightful characters, beautiful descriptions and a thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Phil Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I approached this with a degree of trepidation as it bore all the hallmarks of a damsel-in-distress tale - a weak woman terrorised by an abusive partner - the only saving grace being the setting (the wild North West coast of Scotland). But after a hesitant start the story makes a wholly unexpected detour - the victim refuses to give in to her tormentor despite her history of being weak-willed and feckless. This fresh take on our instinct for survival and self-preservation creates a clever plot twist just when you think you're fairly sure how things are going to turn out.

Full marks for originality - as well as some truly evocative descriptive passages that bring this stunning landscape to life. The main characters are properly fleshed out and show the writer's care and compassion when describing human frailities.

Unlike many novels spiced with a degree of eroticism or romanticism this tale refuses to bow down to Hollywood stereotypes - the guy doesn't necessarily get the gal he was gunning for. True to life and a thoroughly rewarding read.

[Jeanette Mccarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm afraid this is a shameless plug for my own novel. Sorry folks, but I really believe in it, and judging by my reviews I think you will enjoy it.