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The Shadow Bird
Three months into her new role as a psychiatrist at a clinic in New York, Erin Cartwright is asked to evaluate the case of a man who murdered his mother and sisters at the age of seventeen.
Found not guilty by reason of insanity and held in a maximum-security psychiatric facility for twenty-seven years, Timothy Stern is now eligible for release. Upon learning the crime occurred in the same village she once visited as a child, Erin is on the verge of refusing to take the case, when a startling discovery triggers memories she'd rather keep hidden, and a suspicion the wrong man is behind bars.
Found not guilty by reason of insanity and held in a maximum-security psychiatric facility for twenty-seven years, Timothy Stern is now eligible for release. Upon learning the crime occurred in the same village she once visited as a child, Erin is on the verge of refusing to take the case, when a startling discovery triggers memories she'd rather keep hidden, and a suspicion the wrong man is behind bars.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 15, 2020
7 people are currently reading
280 people want to read
About the author
Ann Gosslin
3 books10 followersAnn Gosslin spent her early years in the US, before heeding the call of distant shores. Inspired by a lifelong interest in psychology, she explores in her fiction the dark (and often hidden) side of human nature.
The Shadow Bird is Ann's debut novel. Her second novel, The Double, will be published by Legend Press in 2021.
The Shadow Bird is Ann's debut novel. Her second novel, The Double, will be published by Legend Press in 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 30, 2020
Despite the slow start, I was eventually immersed in Gosslin’s story-telling. Over the pages, we eventually find out what happened to Erin when she was younger, as well as the circumstances leading to Tim’s incarceration. This was a good example of mystery fiction but, the dull spots in the narrative did lessen my enjoyment of it overall.
The symbol is birds in this story is an interesting and unusual concept. It took me a while to figure out the significance of birds, beyond the literal meaning that Gosslin gives them in the narrative. In my opinion, the birds came to represent the freedom that both Timothy and Erin have been denied – all because of their own backgrounds. In addition, Timothy and Erin equally struggle to remember particular facts about the past: their memories are like birds flying and are free, rather than remembered and processed. Indeed, Timothy’s case to release him is the ultimate symbol of the bird: freedom and liberty to go as he pleases.
I failed to appreciate the side-plot of Cassie, a young girl who arrives at Erin’s facility at the beginning of the story. Despite this character making infrequent appearances throughout the narrative, I felt it was not seamlessly stitched to the main story. Even for a sub-plot, it seemed quite weak in comparison to the rest of the story.
This was an interesting story that undoubtedly captured my attention the more that I read. Uncovering Timothy and Erin’s background was quite chilling and Gosslin really creates an effective atmosphere through her style of writing. Being split between Timothy’s case and making connections with her own past, Erin seems to struggle to keep on top of everything. Her emotions are powerful and I wanted to see closure to understand that Erin had made peace with her past.
I enjoyed the different plot that this novel provided. Although there were slow moments, I guess it allowed me to process some of the more major plot developments. Whilst I did not particularly warm to Erin as a character, I enjoyed the investigations made into Timothy’s background and how this linked to Erin herself.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Ann Gosslin for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
The symbol is birds in this story is an interesting and unusual concept. It took me a while to figure out the significance of birds, beyond the literal meaning that Gosslin gives them in the narrative. In my opinion, the birds came to represent the freedom that both Timothy and Erin have been denied – all because of their own backgrounds. In addition, Timothy and Erin equally struggle to remember particular facts about the past: their memories are like birds flying and are free, rather than remembered and processed. Indeed, Timothy’s case to release him is the ultimate symbol of the bird: freedom and liberty to go as he pleases.
I failed to appreciate the side-plot of Cassie, a young girl who arrives at Erin’s facility at the beginning of the story. Despite this character making infrequent appearances throughout the narrative, I felt it was not seamlessly stitched to the main story. Even for a sub-plot, it seemed quite weak in comparison to the rest of the story.
This was an interesting story that undoubtedly captured my attention the more that I read. Uncovering Timothy and Erin’s background was quite chilling and Gosslin really creates an effective atmosphere through her style of writing. Being split between Timothy’s case and making connections with her own past, Erin seems to struggle to keep on top of everything. Her emotions are powerful and I wanted to see closure to understand that Erin had made peace with her past.
I enjoyed the different plot that this novel provided. Although there were slow moments, I guess it allowed me to process some of the more major plot developments. Whilst I did not particularly warm to Erin as a character, I enjoyed the investigations made into Timothy’s background and how this linked to Erin herself.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Ann Gosslin for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
July 11, 2020
This is a well-written traditional whodunit about a criminal psychologist treating a man who was institutionalized for a brutal murder years ago. During her treatment, Dr. Cartwright begins to suspect that her patient may not in fact be the killer, and starts discovering things about her own past as well.
Though the book was well-written, I found it to be very slow-moving compared to similar thrillers of this type. Not a lot happened in the first half of the book and Dr. Cartwright, while written just fine as a character, did not interest me too much psychologically in the first half. I also was not invested enough in her to be too interested in her own family drama. I might not have stuck with the book much longer but things began to take a turn about 60 percent of the way through.
The ending of the book was good, but overall there were not enough thrills to keep me fully engaged. I would give it 3.5 stars - nothing wrong with the book at all, but just failed to engage me.
Thanks to NetGalley, Legend Press and the author for the advance copy to read.
Though the book was well-written, I found it to be very slow-moving compared to similar thrillers of this type. Not a lot happened in the first half of the book and Dr. Cartwright, while written just fine as a character, did not interest me too much psychologically in the first half. I also was not invested enough in her to be too interested in her own family drama. I might not have stuck with the book much longer but things began to take a turn about 60 percent of the way through.
The ending of the book was good, but overall there were not enough thrills to keep me fully engaged. I would give it 3.5 stars - nothing wrong with the book at all, but just failed to engage me.
Thanks to NetGalley, Legend Press and the author for the advance copy to read.
July 15, 2020
Erin Cartwright is a psychiatrist, asked to evaluate Timothy Stern ... a man who murdered his mother and two sisters almost 30 years ago. He has been in a maximum security psychiatric facility ever since.
But his particular facility will be shutting down soon. The powers that be would like to place Stern in his father's home instead of transferring him to another facility.
Erin will make the final decision deciding his future.
What Erin discovers is that she knows Timothy Stern. Her brother and his friends were bullies of the first order way back when ... and Stern was a popular target.
But the memories she has, she'd rather keep to herself and keep them well hidden. She's not who people think she is .... and she highly suspects that Stern is not responsible for his family's murders.
This one drew me in immediately. Little by little Erin's younger life is revealed. She does, indeed, have secrets... and when those secrets are let loose, it turns her evaluation of Stern in a much different direction than she thinks possible. It's a page-turner with twists and turns that lead to a totally unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Legend Press / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 20, 2020
Thank you so much Legendpress for providing me the review copy of this book.
This book is about Erin Cartwright, who is a psychologist. She is assigned on a criminal case evaluation of Tim Stern who murdered his mother and sisters 27 years ago. When she starts evaluating him, she starts questioning his crime if he really murdered his family or not.
Things I liked:
-This book started strong in my opinion. A psychiatrist evaluating a man who committed a heinous crime- this gave me strong Silence of The Lambs vibes which I was loving.
-The writing is great, it doesn't feel like a debut book at all.
Things I didn't like:
-Even though it had a slow pace, I thought it was fine in the beginning, but the pace never picked. This is not a fast pacing thriller at all.
-This book was focusing more on Erin Cartwright's life rather than Tim Stern. Though the stories were related but this book felt more about the psychologist rather than the criminal. I'd have liked to see more of the flashback chapters and if the story had focused more on Tim.
-There were no compelling plot twists. You basically figure out through the halfway point who's the murderer.
Overall I think it was an okay thriller but not one of my favorite. I did not enjoy it as much as I thought I would. But I think people who are new to this genre will enjoy this book!
This book is about Erin Cartwright, who is a psychologist. She is assigned on a criminal case evaluation of Tim Stern who murdered his mother and sisters 27 years ago. When she starts evaluating him, she starts questioning his crime if he really murdered his family or not.
Things I liked:
-This book started strong in my opinion. A psychiatrist evaluating a man who committed a heinous crime- this gave me strong Silence of The Lambs vibes which I was loving.
-The writing is great, it doesn't feel like a debut book at all.
Things I didn't like:
-Even though it had a slow pace, I thought it was fine in the beginning, but the pace never picked. This is not a fast pacing thriller at all.
-This book was focusing more on Erin Cartwright's life rather than Tim Stern. Though the stories were related but this book felt more about the psychologist rather than the criminal. I'd have liked to see more of the flashback chapters and if the story had focused more on Tim.
-There were no compelling plot twists. You basically figure out through the halfway point who's the murderer.
Overall I think it was an okay thriller but not one of my favorite. I did not enjoy it as much as I thought I would. But I think people who are new to this genre will enjoy this book!
July 5, 2020
A bit of a slow burn, but one that I for the most part enjoyed. It didn't have as many twists and turns as I hoped, but the main character was believable and I did really enjoy getting to know her backstory. I would totally read another book about her as I did enjoy her as the main character.
The romance felt a little bit thrown in there for something extra, but wasn't awful.
All in all a good thriller.
The romance felt a little bit thrown in there for something extra, but wasn't awful.
All in all a good thriller.
July 29, 2020
It is almost impossible to believe that THE SHADOW BIRD is author Ann Gosslin's first novel. This psychological thriller is sure to gain instant fans. I know for sure that I will be watching for her next novel and I sincerely hope she continues on with Psychiatry Specialist Erin Cartwright.
The plot of THE SHADOW BIRD contains twists and turns that first time authors are not usually adept at. Author Ann Gosslin handles them like a seasoned professional. The multiple plot lines could easily have become unruly, but Ann Gosslin's talent and incredible intelligence shine through and readers will find this psychological thriller impossible to put down.
There are very few books where the conclusion surprises me, when I find such a book, I am inclined to shout it to the rooftops. THE SHADOW BIRD is worthy of my shouting.
Characters so realistic they jump off the pages and make you want to learn more about them.
This is a PERFECT book for Book Clubs around the world. I am well aware that this book is not available for a couple more weeks, but this knowledge does nothing to dampen my recommendation. You should ORDER this book from your favorite Indie Bookstore.
I rate THE SHADOW BIRD as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
*** Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free ebook copy of "The Shadow Bird." ***
To read more of my reviews visit my blog at http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram at
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The plot of THE SHADOW BIRD contains twists and turns that first time authors are not usually adept at. Author Ann Gosslin handles them like a seasoned professional. The multiple plot lines could easily have become unruly, but Ann Gosslin's talent and incredible intelligence shine through and readers will find this psychological thriller impossible to put down.
There are very few books where the conclusion surprises me, when I find such a book, I am inclined to shout it to the rooftops. THE SHADOW BIRD is worthy of my shouting.
Characters so realistic they jump off the pages and make you want to learn more about them.
This is a PERFECT book for Book Clubs around the world. I am well aware that this book is not available for a couple more weeks, but this knowledge does nothing to dampen my recommendation. You should ORDER this book from your favorite Indie Bookstore.
I rate THE SHADOW BIRD as 5 OUT OF 5 STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
*** Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free ebook copy of "The Shadow Bird." ***
To read more of my reviews visit my blog at http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
On Twitter
http://www.twitter.com/Amiesbookreview
July 19, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Legend Press for my ARC in exchange for an honest review. Erin is running away from a past filled with pain and sorrow. Her never ending quest for a new beginning is always just out of her reach. Being a psychiatrist, she is asked to help a murderer who is eligible for release. This journey brings past memories crashing back with intensity proving that you can’t escape from the past, no matter how hard you try.
I felt for Erin during her struggle for peace and happiness. As the mystery unfolds, secrets come to light and lives are changed forever. Suspenseful whodunnit! This is an enthralling debut and I look forward to Ann Gosslin’s second book, The Double, coming in 2021.
I felt for Erin during her struggle for peace and happiness. As the mystery unfolds, secrets come to light and lives are changed forever. Suspenseful whodunnit! This is an enthralling debut and I look forward to Ann Gosslin’s second book, The Double, coming in 2021.
July 15, 2020
The Shadow Bird is Ann Gosslin’s intriguing debut novel and a book that is provocative, powerful and hard-hitting from the opening pages. It follows protagonist Erin Cartwright who is a psychiatrist employed by a New York clinic that specialises in treating young girls when she is requested to evaluate the case of an upcoming parolee, and his fitness for release back into society, who was institutionalised after he apparently slaughtered his mother and sisters and charged with triple murder at the tender age of seventeen. But during her time talking to Timothy Stern she comes to the realisation that he likely isn't the one who murdered his entire family and believes there has been a miscarriage of justice. She decides to do some sleuthing to see what information or evidence she can find to back up her theory but she discovers that she must face what happened in her past if she wishes to get to the bottom of Stern’s possible wrongful conviction. Is Erin willing for her secrets to be revealed in order to exonerate Stern?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this tense and exciting thriller from the get-go as we are introduced to the damaged Dr Cartwright who is a great protagonist with more than a few flaws making her relatable and believable. I really hope Gosslin turns this into a series as the fact that we have such an engaging lead character and the endless possibilities for plotlines given she is a psychiatrist would make for a fantastic series; I know I would definitely pick them up. There are lots of twists and turns with some of them admittedly being quite predictable, especially to those who read this genre a lot. That said, I don't think it spoiled the story as much as it probably should've. However, some of the twists were surprising to me and the authors clever use of misdirection was executed well. It's atmospheric, suspenseful and a slow-burner and it was easy to immerse yourself in the story. Secrets, lies and dark pasts come to the forefront and are slowly revealed as the narrative progresses. I look forward to more from Gosslin. Many thanks to Legend Press for an ARC.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this tense and exciting thriller from the get-go as we are introduced to the damaged Dr Cartwright who is a great protagonist with more than a few flaws making her relatable and believable. I really hope Gosslin turns this into a series as the fact that we have such an engaging lead character and the endless possibilities for plotlines given she is a psychiatrist would make for a fantastic series; I know I would definitely pick them up. There are lots of twists and turns with some of them admittedly being quite predictable, especially to those who read this genre a lot. That said, I don't think it spoiled the story as much as it probably should've. However, some of the twists were surprising to me and the authors clever use of misdirection was executed well. It's atmospheric, suspenseful and a slow-burner and it was easy to immerse yourself in the story. Secrets, lies and dark pasts come to the forefront and are slowly revealed as the narrative progresses. I look forward to more from Gosslin. Many thanks to Legend Press for an ARC.
July 8, 2020
3.5/5
This is another one of those books where predictability doesn't take away from the overarching plot. I definitely knew where it was going and who was responsible for different events, but that didn't take away from the enjoyment of the detective work. The Shadow Bird definitely works better as a character study than as a mystery thriller, so this is perhaps better for readers who prefer character-oriented books.
Occasionally there were so many things to follow that you lost your train of thought. All the avenues were intriguing, although I think Cassie's could have used a bit more depth and development. At times it was difficult to know how all the avenues tied together but the ending worked nicely. I found particularly in the second half that the book was difficult to put down. Overall, a decent and interesting read that I'd recommend more so to beginners to the thriller genre.
Content Warnings: psychosis, schizophrenia, mental health hospitalisation, drug use, forced drugging, murder, mention of an eating disorder, arson, mention of child neglect, bullying, adultery
Thank you to Legend Press and Ann Goslin for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This is another one of those books where predictability doesn't take away from the overarching plot. I definitely knew where it was going and who was responsible for different events, but that didn't take away from the enjoyment of the detective work. The Shadow Bird definitely works better as a character study than as a mystery thriller, so this is perhaps better for readers who prefer character-oriented books.
Occasionally there were so many things to follow that you lost your train of thought. All the avenues were intriguing, although I think Cassie's could have used a bit more depth and development. At times it was difficult to know how all the avenues tied together but the ending worked nicely. I found particularly in the second half that the book was difficult to put down. Overall, a decent and interesting read that I'd recommend more so to beginners to the thriller genre.
Content Warnings: psychosis, schizophrenia, mental health hospitalisation, drug use, forced drugging, murder, mention of an eating disorder, arson, mention of child neglect, bullying, adultery
Thank you to Legend Press and Ann Goslin for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
November 12, 2020
As I was reading this novel, one phrase kept repeating itself in my head. "Physician heal thyself". Erin Cartwright, a psychiatrist, was one tormented and traumatized woman who really needed to see a psychiatrist herself in my opinion.
The descriptions within the novel were well wrought, yet the writing was less than smooth in places. This is a debut novel, but one which held my interest throughout.
Erin's character was deeply damaged by her childhood experiences - in that aspect she had a LOT in common with Timothy Stern. In fact, I'd have to say that the parents in this novel were some of the worst I've ever read or heard about. If there are such atrocious parents out there, they should be sterilized.
My favourite character had to be Timothy Stern. He seemed such a pitiable character - especially in the flashback scenes to when he was a teenager.
The plot was compelling, but seemed laborious in parts. The ending was satisfying, though the plot twist didn't really come as a surprise. In summation, I would recommend this novel with a few reservations. I would definitely like to read more of this author to see how her skills develop.
3.5 stars rounded UP for NetGalley and Amazon and rounded down for Goodreads (where the stars have different values)
The descriptions within the novel were well wrought, yet the writing was less than smooth in places. This is a debut novel, but one which held my interest throughout.
Erin's character was deeply damaged by her childhood experiences - in that aspect she had a LOT in common with Timothy Stern. In fact, I'd have to say that the parents in this novel were some of the worst I've ever read or heard about. If there are such atrocious parents out there, they should be sterilized.
My favourite character had to be Timothy Stern. He seemed such a pitiable character - especially in the flashback scenes to when he was a teenager.
The plot was compelling, but seemed laborious in parts. The ending was satisfying, though the plot twist didn't really come as a surprise. In summation, I would recommend this novel with a few reservations. I would definitely like to read more of this author to see how her skills develop.
3.5 stars rounded UP for NetGalley and Amazon and rounded down for Goodreads (where the stars have different values)
July 17, 2020
An intriguing debut here from Ann Gosslin, a beautifully written and riveting story with some brilliant characters and a cleverly crafted mystery element.
Themes of trauma and memory are at the centre of this story, as one woman searches for answers all the while very aware that her own past may be closer than she can see..
I liked the juxtaposition between past and present here, one was almost seamlessly woven into the other until in the end the truth is revealed. It is a story of heightened emotion and tragedy, one act causing a ripple effect through the lives of so many.
I thought it was great. An author to watch. Recommended.
Themes of trauma and memory are at the centre of this story, as one woman searches for answers all the while very aware that her own past may be closer than she can see..
I liked the juxtaposition between past and present here, one was almost seamlessly woven into the other until in the end the truth is revealed. It is a story of heightened emotion and tragedy, one act causing a ripple effect through the lives of so many.
I thought it was great. An author to watch. Recommended.
August 7, 2020
This is not a fast paced, body filled thriller and it soars higher because of it. A strong character study of two people - Timothy a murderer and Erin, a psychiatrist whose paths would never have normally crossed. Erin is evaluating Timothy for a partial release and they discover they have much in common including secrets buried deep down. The writing is excellent and you are drawn into both worlds very quickly. I really didn’t expect the turns it took and was engrossed in the surprising developments.
August 3, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
The Shadow Bird.
I was pleased when my request was approved though the premise sounded familiar, I hoped the author had a trick up her sleeve.
Sadly, she did not.
First, I didn't like Erin.
I found it REALLLYYYY hard to believe she was a renowned psychiatrist; she was flaky, anxious and tense.
For a psychiatrist, she was clueless to body language, easily fooled by sneaky characters, and believed what she wanted to believe, especially when she meets a charming, handsome man.
She was unprofessional, inappropriately attached to a troubled teen, and spent an inordinate amount of time fretting about her deep, dark past, which didn't sound all that original to me, not the fretting part or her terribbbblllleeee secret past.'
Second, there was a ridiculous pseudo unnecessary romance that only served as filler and did nothing to move the plot forward.
Third, the plot was predictable and I called out the villain the moment he appeared.
Also, I don't believe in coincidence.
What are the odds that Erin is from the same neighborhood as the murderer?
The Shadow Bird lacked suspense, compelling characters and it sure wasn't thrilling, but the writing wasn't bad so this might interest some readers who can overlook what I can't.
I was pleased when my request was approved though the premise sounded familiar, I hoped the author had a trick up her sleeve.
Sadly, she did not.
First, I didn't like Erin.
I found it REALLLYYYY hard to believe she was a renowned psychiatrist; she was flaky, anxious and tense.
For a psychiatrist, she was clueless to body language, easily fooled by sneaky characters, and believed what she wanted to believe, especially when she meets a charming, handsome man.
She was unprofessional, inappropriately attached to a troubled teen, and spent an inordinate amount of time fretting about her deep, dark past, which didn't sound all that original to me, not the fretting part or her terribbbblllleeee secret past.'
Second, there was a ridiculous pseudo unnecessary romance that only served as filler and did nothing to move the plot forward.
Third, the plot was predictable and I called out the villain the moment he appeared.
Also, I don't believe in coincidence.
What are the odds that Erin is from the same neighborhood as the murderer?
The Shadow Bird lacked suspense, compelling characters and it sure wasn't thrilling, but the writing wasn't bad so this might interest some readers who can overlook what I can't.
January 30, 2021
[Disclaimer: e-ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
3.5 stars
This was an enjoyable thriller that, while quite slow to get going and with no big twist to the plot, was nonetheless a pleasant reading experience.
The story has a great premise that I found quite intriguing. I enjoyed the story overall but I do wish it had more twists to the plot and the sub-plot reading Cassie felt somewhat unnecessary to the narrative.
If you enjoy a thriller with the main character trying to solve a mystery from their past, then this one is for you.
Check out my BookTube Channel for more bookish content.
3.5 stars
This was an enjoyable thriller that, while quite slow to get going and with no big twist to the plot, was nonetheless a pleasant reading experience.
The story has a great premise that I found quite intriguing. I enjoyed the story overall but I do wish it had more twists to the plot and the sub-plot reading Cassie felt somewhat unnecessary to the narrative.
If you enjoy a thriller with the main character trying to solve a mystery from their past, then this one is for you.
Check out my BookTube Channel for more bookish content.
July 16, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this book.
Dr. Erin Cartwright's new position at the Meadows is contingent on her taking pro bono cases. When she is suggested to take one of Tim Stern, a man who allegedly slaughtered his mother and sisters when he was 17, the carefully crafted facade of Erin's life begins to crumble. The more she learns about Tim, and his fractured family, the more it brings back her own murky history.
I had a few problems with this novel. One, it's set in America, with American characters, yet the prose and spelling are all English. It's a small thing, but it tripped me up more than once. Americans, for instance, don't usually call others wankers, and an American character probably wouldn't use that term. I have no problem with British prose, spelling, and wording, but it should fit the narrative. It didn't here. Two, how did Erin get all this time off work? She's constantly flying somewhere or taking day trips to research an old murder case,, so who is tending to her patients? Also, characters pop in and out, like Niels and Cassie. Honestly, the whole Cassie storyline could have been cut, as it served no purpose to the overall narrative. Three: This book dragged on. It took until about 60-70% in for there to be any action, and even then, there was no surprise or shock. The twists weren't twisty enough for there to be a big emotional payout.
I will say that it was well written. The prose is smooth and flows well. The character of Erin is well written. Overall, however, this book just didn't hit all the right buttons for me.
Dr. Erin Cartwright's new position at the Meadows is contingent on her taking pro bono cases. When she is suggested to take one of Tim Stern, a man who allegedly slaughtered his mother and sisters when he was 17, the carefully crafted facade of Erin's life begins to crumble. The more she learns about Tim, and his fractured family, the more it brings back her own murky history.
I had a few problems with this novel. One, it's set in America, with American characters, yet the prose and spelling are all English. It's a small thing, but it tripped me up more than once. Americans, for instance, don't usually call others wankers, and an American character probably wouldn't use that term. I have no problem with British prose, spelling, and wording, but it should fit the narrative. It didn't here. Two, how did Erin get all this time off work? She's constantly flying somewhere or taking day trips to research an old murder case,, so who is tending to her patients? Also, characters pop in and out, like Niels and Cassie. Honestly, the whole Cassie storyline could have been cut, as it served no purpose to the overall narrative. Three: This book dragged on. It took until about 60-70% in for there to be any action, and even then, there was no surprise or shock. The twists weren't twisty enough for there to be a big emotional payout.
I will say that it was well written. The prose is smooth and flows well. The character of Erin is well written. Overall, however, this book just didn't hit all the right buttons for me.
June 27, 2020
Doctor, heal thyself.
Erin Cartwright is a psychiatrist at a hospital for girls who has her own troubled past. Now the past that she has tried so hard to hide and ignore has caught up to her during a criminal case she's asked to advise on.
This was a good psychological suspense book, predictable at times, but overall, the writing pulls you through. I liked the Erin character, even with her many flaws, they didn't seem completely out of place for someone with her history and job description. She definitely has her (many faults,) but they were believable. And I really liked Timothy's character, even though it was clear from the beginning that he wasn't where he should be, nor was he going to be placed somewhere he should be.
The romance thrown in there was fine. Not great, and mostly served as a distraction since it didn't really further the mystery part of the book, but it at least had a purpose in the end.
It would be interesting to see if the author ends up continuing with the Erin Cartwright character in a series or leaves this as a stand-alone. If it's continued, I would definitely read them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Legend Press for providing me with the arc of this book. It has not influenced my opinion.
Erin Cartwright is a psychiatrist at a hospital for girls who has her own troubled past. Now the past that she has tried so hard to hide and ignore has caught up to her during a criminal case she's asked to advise on.
This was a good psychological suspense book, predictable at times, but overall, the writing pulls you through. I liked the Erin character, even with her many flaws, they didn't seem completely out of place for someone with her history and job description. She definitely has her (many faults,) but they were believable. And I really liked Timothy's character, even though it was clear from the beginning that he wasn't where he should be, nor was he going to be placed somewhere he should be.
The romance thrown in there was fine. Not great, and mostly served as a distraction since it didn't really further the mystery part of the book, but it at least had a purpose in the end.
It would be interesting to see if the author ends up continuing with the Erin Cartwright character in a series or leaves this as a stand-alone. If it's continued, I would definitely read them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Legend Press for providing me with the arc of this book. It has not influenced my opinion.
July 20, 2020
Erin is a psychiatrist and she is tasked to work the case of Timothy Stern. Stern has been in a psychiatric hospital for the past twenty-seven years. His mother and two sisters were murdered. Did he murder them? If not Stern then who else? And, will Erin uncover the truth?
The Shadow Bird is a perfect book for people new to the thriller, mystery genre. The plot builds up nicely, and leads you into the depths of the characters psyche. We slowly uncover the truth of what happened that fateful night.
I liked Erin's character, we knew from the start that there was more to her characters background than what is first thought. She was an enigma herself.
I love my thrillers to be gritty and full of action and gore. This book was too tame for me. But, I can see how people would love the book.
💫My star rating is my personal opinion, I want more action and exciting twists. This is a well written book, but because of the slow burner approach and the twists weren't as explosive as what I'm used to, then my attention wasn't held greatly while reading 💫
The Shadow Bird is a perfect book for people new to the thriller, mystery genre. The plot builds up nicely, and leads you into the depths of the characters psyche. We slowly uncover the truth of what happened that fateful night.
I liked Erin's character, we knew from the start that there was more to her characters background than what is first thought. She was an enigma herself.
I love my thrillers to be gritty and full of action and gore. This book was too tame for me. But, I can see how people would love the book.
💫My star rating is my personal opinion, I want more action and exciting twists. This is a well written book, but because of the slow burner approach and the twists weren't as explosive as what I'm used to, then my attention wasn't held greatly while reading 💫
July 3, 2020
Out in the world, that's where the trouble began.
An atmospheric crime mystery that gave me Shutter Island vibes. A psychiatric hospital in the middle of a thunderstorm. A twenty seven year old triple murder. A doctor treating mentally ill teenagers with secrets of her own. A brilliant debut.
I loved The Shadow Bird. There was a lot going on, but everything tied up nicely in the end. I never struggled to keep track of all the different story lines. Dr Erin Cartwright was the perfect lead. I believed her inner struggle and her private investigation of Tim's case. Unfortunately, I had the ending pegged early on but this was still a joy to read.
**Thanks to Legend Press for providing my review copy via Netgalley.
An atmospheric crime mystery that gave me Shutter Island vibes. A psychiatric hospital in the middle of a thunderstorm. A twenty seven year old triple murder. A doctor treating mentally ill teenagers with secrets of her own. A brilliant debut.
I loved The Shadow Bird. There was a lot going on, but everything tied up nicely in the end. I never struggled to keep track of all the different story lines. Dr Erin Cartwright was the perfect lead. I believed her inner struggle and her private investigation of Tim's case. Unfortunately, I had the ending pegged early on but this was still a joy to read.
**Thanks to Legend Press for providing my review copy via Netgalley.
August 11, 2020
A psychiatrist with a hidden past stumbles upon an ethical dilemma. Erin is supposed to review Tim's case to determine if it is suitable for him to return to the outside world after being locked up in a psychiatric hospital for thirty years. In Erin's secret past, she knew Tim. But that was before he murdered his sisters and mother. In Erin's search for answers, she dares to return to their home town to uncover if Tim really is guilty of the crime. What do people remember of that night? Hopefully no one recognizes Erin and reveals her true identity.
June 19, 2020
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for a review. This book just didn't keep my attention. I didn't find it thrilling nor did care about the characters.
September 14, 2020
This was one of those whodunnit’s that had my mind a total mess! Unfortunately, it did start out very slow and almost lost me completely, but glad I didn’t give up, because once it grabbed me I was absolutely hooked. Very thrilling, chilling, and shocking! I highly recommend to those who love the whodunnit types, especially those that do really keep you guessing! Well written, slow start, but unputdownable once you get through that part! Highly, highly recommend! Don’t give up early on!
Will buzz to around platforms and use lower Amazon reviewer number on release date!
Will buzz to around platforms and use lower Amazon reviewer number on release date!
November 28, 2022
Interesting mystery, but takes forever to pick up.
June 21, 2020
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
1.5* rounded up.
Erin, a psychiatrist at a facility for young women, who has lied to her employers about her identity and place of birth (but nevertheless somehow obtained the ability to work in the States) is asked to consult on whether Tim, a man who murdered his family many years ago and was found unfit to plead, is now suitable for release from psychiatric custody. Despite the fact that she realizes she probably met Tim when they were both teenagers, Erin takes the case. She then spends the book neglecting her actual patients, revealing incremental details of her own melodramatic past, having superficial interviews with Tim, and acting as a sort of private investigator, trying to work out if Tim was actually responsible in the first place. Between the deception, the unprofessional behaviour, the relentless improbable coincidences and the (to me) slightly creepy love interest, I only finished this out of a sense of responsibility to NetGalley.
1.5* rounded up.
Erin, a psychiatrist at a facility for young women, who has lied to her employers about her identity and place of birth (but nevertheless somehow obtained the ability to work in the States) is asked to consult on whether Tim, a man who murdered his family many years ago and was found unfit to plead, is now suitable for release from psychiatric custody. Despite the fact that she realizes she probably met Tim when they were both teenagers, Erin takes the case. She then spends the book neglecting her actual patients, revealing incremental details of her own melodramatic past, having superficial interviews with Tim, and acting as a sort of private investigator, trying to work out if Tim was actually responsible in the first place. Between the deception, the unprofessional behaviour, the relentless improbable coincidences and the (to me) slightly creepy love interest, I only finished this out of a sense of responsibility to NetGalley.
April 26, 2020
Some debuts show promise and arouse enough enthusiasm to persuade the reader to keep an eye open for the next offering. And some are so accomplished they pin you back in your seat and make you wonder where on earth this writer has been hiding for the past few years. The Shadow Bird belongs very firmly in the latter category. It's so well crafted, layer upon layer of disguise and misdirection that can only work effectively if the writer knows what she is doing. I know very very little about the protocols that govern psychiatric treatment but found the level of detail here utterly convincing. And as for the labyrinthine plots, which can so easily get out of hand and fall back upon unconvincing coincidences for any meaningful resolution, Ann Gosslin kept me guessing throughout with little hints here, the odd bit of misdirection there and an unrelenting pace which never resorted to melodrama or predictable tropes.
Really enjoyed this . . . many thanks to Legend Press for the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of what looks like being an excellent career. And as for the main character Erin, there's pleanty of scope there for more. Just saying.
Really enjoyed this . . . many thanks to Legend Press for the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of what looks like being an excellent career. And as for the main character Erin, there's pleanty of scope there for more. Just saying.
April 21, 2020
An unsettling psychological crime thriller infused with a sense of menace from the very first line. The central mystery kept me guessing throughout and there were surprises along the way.
I love novels that teach me things I don't know much about, and I really enjoyed all the insights into psychiatry, which seemed totally authentic. "The Shadow Bird" takes the reader on a fascinating tour behind the scenes at a psychiatric hospital and into the minds of both patient and psychiatrist. Atmospheric and beautifully written.
I love novels that teach me things I don't know much about, and I really enjoyed all the insights into psychiatry, which seemed totally authentic. "The Shadow Bird" takes the reader on a fascinating tour behind the scenes at a psychiatric hospital and into the minds of both patient and psychiatrist. Atmospheric and beautifully written.
March 15, 2025
|::The Shadow Bird
By Ann Gosslin
Chapter 14 Page 79
-Greenlake Psychiatric Facility
Atherton, New York
March, Present Day
5.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ “Sorry,” Erin said, as she pulled on her coat. “I was held up, I wanted to speak to Dr Harrison before we left.”
A shadow clouded his eyes. “Why?”
“No special reason.” She smiled again, though her jaw was starting to hurt from all the smiling. Perhaps she should try a different tack: less cheerful airhostess, more white-coated, professional with a medical degree. Detached, clinical, poised. She buttoned her coat.
“Shall we go?”
Tim had changed out of his stained sweatshirt and into a dark maroon jumper, only marginally frayed at the collar and cuffs. He'd also swapped his trainers for a pair of heavily, scuffed, leather Oxfords, as if some distant memory had triggered the appropriate dress code for lunch in a restaurant. An attendant in a white smock led them through the series of locked steel doors to the front entrance.
-Buzz, Screech Crash-
As each door swung open and clanged shut behind them, Tim flinched. }
In this heartbreaking thriller, we learn a lot of lessons.. from here in this thriller/mysteries novel about a boy and one night in which changed the role of his life for the next 25 years. This was not about who did matter. It was a matter of who knew the most.
Erin Meets Timothy after receiving an official order for her to take his case on as part of her job. She isn't happy but is hoping to wrap it up in a week. All she needed to do was: Get the facts, do the assessment, then retreat back into the safety of her usual daily routine and her usual patients.. nothing to do with criminals..
But the past doesn't like to be buried and as it comes reeling up to find her, she needs to decide whether she wants to stay the same victim, always scared to check her windows and lock her doors.. or is she ready for the truth because it's coming out.. whether she likes it or not..
I love this story. It was so hard to guess what was going to happen, and I'm soo good at that normally but this kept me on my toes and had me reeling from events that I didn't see coming! It's so hard as an author to plant little clues inside of a story so it doesn't trigger something when you later read about it, and that is what this amazing book did. I had so many questions and then even more questions, and now everything makes sense.. but it shouldn't.
I'm going to say it.. and I hate myself for it already. I liked Ray. I found myself looking for an epilogue that wasn't there, but I hoped that after the sixth months.. they reconnected. IYKYK! ::|
By Ann Gosslin
Chapter 14 Page 79
-Greenlake Psychiatric Facility
Atherton, New York
March, Present Day
5.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
{ “Sorry,” Erin said, as she pulled on her coat. “I was held up, I wanted to speak to Dr Harrison before we left.”
A shadow clouded his eyes. “Why?”
“No special reason.” She smiled again, though her jaw was starting to hurt from all the smiling. Perhaps she should try a different tack: less cheerful airhostess, more white-coated, professional with a medical degree. Detached, clinical, poised. She buttoned her coat.
“Shall we go?”
Tim had changed out of his stained sweatshirt and into a dark maroon jumper, only marginally frayed at the collar and cuffs. He'd also swapped his trainers for a pair of heavily, scuffed, leather Oxfords, as if some distant memory had triggered the appropriate dress code for lunch in a restaurant. An attendant in a white smock led them through the series of locked steel doors to the front entrance.
-Buzz, Screech Crash-
As each door swung open and clanged shut behind them, Tim flinched. }
In this heartbreaking thriller, we learn a lot of lessons.. from here in this thriller/mysteries novel about a boy and one night in which changed the role of his life for the next 25 years. This was not about who did matter. It was a matter of who knew the most.
Erin Meets Timothy after receiving an official order for her to take his case on as part of her job. She isn't happy but is hoping to wrap it up in a week. All she needed to do was: Get the facts, do the assessment, then retreat back into the safety of her usual daily routine and her usual patients.. nothing to do with criminals..
But the past doesn't like to be buried and as it comes reeling up to find her, she needs to decide whether she wants to stay the same victim, always scared to check her windows and lock her doors.. or is she ready for the truth because it's coming out.. whether she likes it or not..
I love this story. It was so hard to guess what was going to happen, and I'm soo good at that normally but this kept me on my toes and had me reeling from events that I didn't see coming! It's so hard as an author to plant little clues inside of a story so it doesn't trigger something when you later read about it, and that is what this amazing book did. I had so many questions and then even more questions, and now everything makes sense.. but it shouldn't.
I'm going to say it.. and I hate myself for it already. I liked Ray. I found myself looking for an epilogue that wasn't there, but I hoped that after the sixth months.. they reconnected. IYKYK! ::|
July 14, 2020
From the depths of Nicole’s Book Cellar (Instagram.com/nicoles_bookcellar):
Book: The Shadow Birds (Release Date: July 15, 2020)
Author: Ann Gosslin
Genre: Thriller, Suspense, Mystery
Rating: 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Positives: I liked the main character, Erin. She was somewhat of a broken spirit but persevered through a lot of family issues and abuse. I also liked the unreliability of her memories and judgement. It gave the story more depth.
Negatives: It was sometimes a little too descriptive to where I zoned out and had to reread certain parts. A few parts seemed a little repetitive and drawn out.
Recommend?: Yes
Plot: Erin, a psychiatrist, with a dark past has been asked to assess Timothy who was accused and found guilty of killing his sisters and mother. After twenty-seven years, he may be able to leave the psychiatric facility as long as Erin finds him competent to leave.
The story follows her journey to see if Timothy is sane enough to live outside the prison he has known for over two decades. As she reviews the case and does a little sleuthing, she begins to worry if he is guilty. She also becomes concerns because the story is triggering some packed away repressed memories of her childhood.
Thoughts: I enjoyed the mystery of trying to figure out if Timothy was really guilty or if he was setup. It seemed very clear who the killer is but it may surprise you. I really tried to figure out what Erin’s past was and although there are some clues left alone the way, I missed some of them.
Final drinking thoughts: I didn’t really get the tie in of the birds and the title. I do think you may figure out some parts of the story but there are some reveals that are like oh okay that is what happened. It isn’t a wow moment but I liked it, nonetheless.
Thank you to @NetGalley @LegendPress #AnnGosslin for the advanced copy of #TheShadowBird
#NetGalley #Books #Wine #LitFiction #BookReviews #thrillers #ILikeBigBooksAndICannotLie #Bookstigator #GoodReads #WinerRead #Kindle #AmazonReads #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #Mystery #nicoles_bookcellar
Book: The Shadow Birds (Release Date: July 15, 2020)
Author: Ann Gosslin
Genre: Thriller, Suspense, Mystery
Rating: 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Positives: I liked the main character, Erin. She was somewhat of a broken spirit but persevered through a lot of family issues and abuse. I also liked the unreliability of her memories and judgement. It gave the story more depth.
Negatives: It was sometimes a little too descriptive to where I zoned out and had to reread certain parts. A few parts seemed a little repetitive and drawn out.
Recommend?: Yes
Plot: Erin, a psychiatrist, with a dark past has been asked to assess Timothy who was accused and found guilty of killing his sisters and mother. After twenty-seven years, he may be able to leave the psychiatric facility as long as Erin finds him competent to leave.
The story follows her journey to see if Timothy is sane enough to live outside the prison he has known for over two decades. As she reviews the case and does a little sleuthing, she begins to worry if he is guilty. She also becomes concerns because the story is triggering some packed away repressed memories of her childhood.
Thoughts: I enjoyed the mystery of trying to figure out if Timothy was really guilty or if he was setup. It seemed very clear who the killer is but it may surprise you. I really tried to figure out what Erin’s past was and although there are some clues left alone the way, I missed some of them.
Final drinking thoughts: I didn’t really get the tie in of the birds and the title. I do think you may figure out some parts of the story but there are some reveals that are like oh okay that is what happened. It isn’t a wow moment but I liked it, nonetheless.
Thank you to @NetGalley @LegendPress #AnnGosslin for the advanced copy of #TheShadowBird
#NetGalley #Books #Wine #LitFiction #BookReviews #thrillers #ILikeBigBooksAndICannotLie #Bookstigator #GoodReads #WinerRead #Kindle #AmazonReads #Booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookstagram #Mystery #nicoles_bookcellar
September 28, 2020
Set against the backdrop of a high security psychiatric institute, Dr Erin Cartwright has been asked to review the case of Timothy Stern, a long term patient due up for release, who has been incarcerated for the brutal murder of this mother and 2 sisters 27 years previously. During the review of his case, Erin discovers she also has a link to Timothy and his past, and starts to suspect that Timothy is in fact innocent of the crimes.
There are so many books of this genre available at the moment, many of them very badly written. While this was in general an impressive debut novel, the writing style and characterisation at times veered into the cliched which jarred with me somewhat. As a voracious reader of the psychological genre, it really disappoints me when I work out "who-dunnit" and unfortunately this was patently obvious from early on in the novel. As a sub plot, I failed to understand the significance of the troubled teenager Cassie, who was a book end character. The ending was also a bit "off". In an apparent effort to tie up loose ends, the final chapters are clunky and strained, and at odds with the rest of the book. I'd had a somewhat different ending in mind and wondered if the author should have gone in a different direction with the character Ray (who also has links to Tim's past) whose depths were not fully plumbed. As a reader this would have been a much more satisfactory ending. Give me a novel any day that ends with some ragged edges, as opposed to a plot nearly tied up with a bow!
If you are looking for an easy weekend read, with a better than average narrative style, then this is the book for you. A 3 star read from me.
Many thanks to @netgalley and @legendpress for this ARC in return for my honest review. Thank you also to author, Ann Gosslin.
There are so many books of this genre available at the moment, many of them very badly written. While this was in general an impressive debut novel, the writing style and characterisation at times veered into the cliched which jarred with me somewhat. As a voracious reader of the psychological genre, it really disappoints me when I work out "who-dunnit" and unfortunately this was patently obvious from early on in the novel. As a sub plot, I failed to understand the significance of the troubled teenager Cassie, who was a book end character. The ending was also a bit "off". In an apparent effort to tie up loose ends, the final chapters are clunky and strained, and at odds with the rest of the book. I'd had a somewhat different ending in mind and wondered if the author should have gone in a different direction with the character Ray (who also has links to Tim's past) whose depths were not fully plumbed. As a reader this would have been a much more satisfactory ending. Give me a novel any day that ends with some ragged edges, as opposed to a plot nearly tied up with a bow!
If you are looking for an easy weekend read, with a better than average narrative style, then this is the book for you. A 3 star read from me.
Many thanks to @netgalley and @legendpress for this ARC in return for my honest review. Thank you also to author, Ann Gosslin.
June 24, 2020
So let me start by saying, Ann Gosslin will be foolish if she does not start a series of books following the many pursuits of Erin. As a protagonist I enjoyed her greatly and love love love me anything to do with a psychiatrist/psychiatric ward, so her job there works wonders for me and I think there really is something there about following her case studies on many of her patients.
Okay, now onto the actual book at hand. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and found myself time and time again trying to work out the ending, putting this person or that into the firing line as murderer. I got it right.... but I had also changed my mind 20 times so my 6th attempt maybe was right... but by the end I was wrong again haha.
Lies, secrets and hidden pasts all come into play in this beautiful debut from Ann Gosslin. We follow Erin as she is tasks to give a psychiatric evaluation on whether or not Timothy, a man found guilty of murdering his mother and 2 sisters, is now stable enough to re enter the world. But is there a conflict of interest in Erin’s forgotten secret past? Is Timothy guilty or has the wrong man been sitting in a psychiatric facility for the past few decades for no reason?
All in all, this book had me hooked throughout, I enjoyed it so much and thank you to legend press and netgalley for my ARC
Okay, now onto the actual book at hand. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and found myself time and time again trying to work out the ending, putting this person or that into the firing line as murderer. I got it right.... but I had also changed my mind 20 times so my 6th attempt maybe was right... but by the end I was wrong again haha.
Lies, secrets and hidden pasts all come into play in this beautiful debut from Ann Gosslin. We follow Erin as she is tasks to give a psychiatric evaluation on whether or not Timothy, a man found guilty of murdering his mother and 2 sisters, is now stable enough to re enter the world. But is there a conflict of interest in Erin’s forgotten secret past? Is Timothy guilty or has the wrong man been sitting in a psychiatric facility for the past few decades for no reason?
All in all, this book had me hooked throughout, I enjoyed it so much and thank you to legend press and netgalley for my ARC
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