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Crime After Crime #1
Watching Over Me
Sometimes secrets are better left buried...
Amy Penrose knows how it feels to grow up in a home where your parents harm you more than raise you.
Now an adult, she’s newly qualified as a child psychologist and hopes to help children who’ve gone through struggles of their own.
When a father brings a twelve-year-old boy into her office, she recognises the bruises and the way the boy withdraws into himself. And she wants to help.
But life is never that simple. With a boyfriend at home who believes her career shouldn’t be more important than getting married and having children, and with a boss who seems to want her to stay late all the time, but not for work reasons, and with other patients who need her, Amy is torn.
As she delves into the family’s past, and starts to feel unsafe in her own home, she starts to wonder if this is one child beyond her help.
Get book one is this heart-racing psychological thriller series from NY Times and USA Today bestselling author M A Comley, and M K Farrar.
Amy Penrose knows how it feels to grow up in a home where your parents harm you more than raise you.
Now an adult, she’s newly qualified as a child psychologist and hopes to help children who’ve gone through struggles of their own.
When a father brings a twelve-year-old boy into her office, she recognises the bruises and the way the boy withdraws into himself. And she wants to help.
But life is never that simple. With a boyfriend at home who believes her career shouldn’t be more important than getting married and having children, and with a boss who seems to want her to stay late all the time, but not for work reasons, and with other patients who need her, Amy is torn.
As she delves into the family’s past, and starts to feel unsafe in her own home, she starts to wonder if this is one child beyond her help.
Get book one is this heart-racing psychological thriller series from NY Times and USA Today bestselling author M A Comley, and M K Farrar.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2019
1532 people are currently reading
1361 people want to read
About the author
M.K. Farrar
40 books146 followersM K Farrar had penned more than ten novels of psychological noir and crime fiction. A British author, she lives in the countryside with her three children and a menagerie of rescue pets. When she’s not writing—which isn’t often—she balances out all the murder with baking and binge-watching shows on Netflix.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
October 10, 2021
This is a Masterpiece of psychological thriller writing with unforgettable characters. The authors did a terrific job in revealing a just enough of Amy's childhood to show the impact that has today as an adult.
Dr. Amy Penrose, had a tough childhood with her obsessive-compulsive mom, who insists on a weekly phone call every Wednesday at 6:30 on the dot. She trains to become a child Psychologist in order to help others. Then one night she has a last-minute emergency appointment referred by social services for a teenager, who has been expelled from school due to fighting and other bad behaviours. She gets a gut instinct that something isn't right with him and his father. This feeling only gets worse when she discovers the mother vanished 2 years ago without a trace.
The child has bruises and the father displays his anger, could the father be harming him. She gets no support from her new boss, who has a very “hands on” approach to managing. The further she digs the more intrigued and worried she gets. Then …… What an ending.
It is set in 1983, which I wondered why initially, but I think it helped to negate scenarios where social media, computers, mobiles, police investigation methods and attitudes to women by “hands on” bosses. They would of changed the possibilities and the story. So much has changed in a relatively short time. I liked the poster reminding people to use seatbelts, very topical at the time.
Dr. Amy Penrose, had a tough childhood with her obsessive-compulsive mom, who insists on a weekly phone call every Wednesday at 6:30 on the dot. She trains to become a child Psychologist in order to help others. Then one night she has a last-minute emergency appointment referred by social services for a teenager, who has been expelled from school due to fighting and other bad behaviours. She gets a gut instinct that something isn't right with him and his father. This feeling only gets worse when she discovers the mother vanished 2 years ago without a trace.
The child has bruises and the father displays his anger, could the father be harming him. She gets no support from her new boss, who has a very “hands on” approach to managing. The further she digs the more intrigued and worried she gets. Then …… What an ending.
It is set in 1983, which I wondered why initially, but I think it helped to negate scenarios where social media, computers, mobiles, police investigation methods and attitudes to women by “hands on” bosses. They would of changed the possibilities and the story. So much has changed in a relatively short time. I liked the poster reminding people to use seatbelts, very topical at the time.
November 26, 2019
WOW!!! OUTSTANDING Psychological Thriller!!! Review To Come When I Can Breathe Again!!!
A thrilling story that once once started can NOT be put down, through amazing twists and ripping scenes, until the surprising end!! A new psychologist, Amy Penrose, lived a very tough life with her obsessive-compulsive mom, and hopes her trials and education will be able to help so many children in hard situations who become her patients. Her office experiences have been stomach churning due to the 'hands on' approach of her new boss, her love life is deteriorating as her boyfriend pushes for a child and marriage, two things she has no interest in at this time,and the work with kids she just can't leave at the job. A new client comes in,sent by social service after being expelled from school. Amy immediately notices how he draws into himself as his father sits beside him, and bruises all over his lower arms.
Is he in a bad situation, could his father be harming him...Her heart wants to take care of this child, causing her to look into his background and do things that she should not. When a wet, huddled up boy is found outside her window,she follows him to 'proof' of things that happened....Good choice..Or Bad..
As a reader I found myself holding my breath, on the edge of my seat,yelling at Amy to change her mind....Losing sight of all around me as I traveled every step with this psychologist..UNTIL
Whew..A 5 STAR story by two authors Who I would NOT want to meet in a dark alley!!
A thrilling story that once once started can NOT be put down, through amazing twists and ripping scenes, until the surprising end!! A new psychologist, Amy Penrose, lived a very tough life with her obsessive-compulsive mom, and hopes her trials and education will be able to help so many children in hard situations who become her patients. Her office experiences have been stomach churning due to the 'hands on' approach of her new boss, her love life is deteriorating as her boyfriend pushes for a child and marriage, two things she has no interest in at this time,and the work with kids she just can't leave at the job. A new client comes in,sent by social service after being expelled from school. Amy immediately notices how he draws into himself as his father sits beside him, and bruises all over his lower arms.
Is he in a bad situation, could his father be harming him...Her heart wants to take care of this child, causing her to look into his background and do things that she should not. When a wet, huddled up boy is found outside her window,she follows him to 'proof' of things that happened....Good choice..Or Bad..
As a reader I found myself holding my breath, on the edge of my seat,yelling at Amy to change her mind....Losing sight of all around me as I traveled every step with this psychologist..UNTIL
Whew..A 5 STAR story by two authors Who I would NOT want to meet in a dark alley!!
December 5, 2019
4.5 STARS
Child Psychologist Amy Penrose has a new client .... a referral from Social Services. Edward and his father, Robert present for their appointment and immediately Amy notices the bruises on the quiet 12-year-old boy.
As she delves into the family’s past, she discovers that the child's mother disappeared 2 years prior and has never been seen or heard from since.
As Edward's father displays his anger, Amy begins to wonder if there is more to the story than what he's telling her. Is Edward safe from his father?
Sometimes secrets are better left buried...
This is a very well written mystery with unforgettable characters. The authors did a terrific job is revealing a bit of Amy's childhood and how that impacts her today as an adult. The ending was absolutely explosive.
Many thanks to the authors for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Child Psychologist Amy Penrose has a new client .... a referral from Social Services. Edward and his father, Robert present for their appointment and immediately Amy notices the bruises on the quiet 12-year-old boy.
As she delves into the family’s past, she discovers that the child's mother disappeared 2 years prior and has never been seen or heard from since.
As Edward's father displays his anger, Amy begins to wonder if there is more to the story than what he's telling her. Is Edward safe from his father?
Sometimes secrets are better left buried...
This is a very well written mystery with unforgettable characters. The authors did a terrific job is revealing a bit of Amy's childhood and how that impacts her today as an adult. The ending was absolutely explosive.
Many thanks to the authors for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 26, 2019
Wow! The feeling you get when you open a book thinking you’ll read a chapter or two only to find you can’t quit and the morning passes quickly as you continue page after page, chapter after chapter.
Amy Penrose immediately captured my attention and left me in doubt many times to her sanity. Was she the therapist or should she have been the patient? A lot is going on. Doubts about her relationship with Gary, the weekly call with her mother, the touchy feely boss and then a new patient that tugs at her heart as her suspicions grow he’s being abused at home.
What really happened to Edward Swain’s mother two years ago? Is someone following her? Her boyfriend playing cruel jokes? Is she losing her mind?
All good questions for Amy to ask—but the truth may kill her.
Fabulous read and highly recommended.
Amy Penrose immediately captured my attention and left me in doubt many times to her sanity. Was she the therapist or should she have been the patient? A lot is going on. Doubts about her relationship with Gary, the weekly call with her mother, the touchy feely boss and then a new patient that tugs at her heart as her suspicions grow he’s being abused at home.
What really happened to Edward Swain’s mother two years ago? Is someone following her? Her boyfriend playing cruel jokes? Is she losing her mind?
All good questions for Amy to ask—but the truth may kill her.
Fabulous read and highly recommended.
November 29, 2019
What’s better than a favourite author bringing a new book out? Two of your favourite author’s bringing one out together! Was very excited with this pairing and could not wait to see what they had come up with.
Right from meeting Amy, it’s obvious that whilst she maybe where she wants to be in her career, the same can’t be said about her relationship. There are certainly signs of cracks showing which deepen when Amy becomes embroiled in her new client, Edward.
I have to say I was as intrigued as Amy when Edward and his father come into her office. You can’t help but get a gut feeling that something sinister is going on where they are concerned and I was dying for Amy to discover more.
To say that this is the first book that the authors have written together, it flowed brilliantly. There’s always that worry that it might not work but can hand on heart say that this pairing is a sure fired winner.
Watching Over Me will have you close your curtains and lock all your doors. I loved the build of suspense which had me gripped to each page. The story became more fraught as Amy gets closer to discovering the truth and loved how it all ended. Even more so knowing that there is yet more to come.
My thanks to the authors for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Right from meeting Amy, it’s obvious that whilst she maybe where she wants to be in her career, the same can’t be said about her relationship. There are certainly signs of cracks showing which deepen when Amy becomes embroiled in her new client, Edward.
I have to say I was as intrigued as Amy when Edward and his father come into her office. You can’t help but get a gut feeling that something sinister is going on where they are concerned and I was dying for Amy to discover more.
To say that this is the first book that the authors have written together, it flowed brilliantly. There’s always that worry that it might not work but can hand on heart say that this pairing is a sure fired winner.
Watching Over Me will have you close your curtains and lock all your doors. I loved the build of suspense which had me gripped to each page. The story became more fraught as Amy gets closer to discovering the truth and loved how it all ended. Even more so knowing that there is yet more to come.
My thanks to the authors for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
December 15, 2019
What a stunning psychological thriller. Watching Over Me, co-written by two hugely talented authors, is one of those grab-you-fast stories that you won’t want to put down. Amy Penrose, now a child psychologist, grew up knowing too well the horrors of child abuse in her own life. Immediately, she spots trouble when a father brings his young son Edward into her office for treatment. The twelve-year-old is withdrawn and covered with bruises. Amy wants to help.
Her involvement brings trouble. She’s beset at home with a broken relationship with her boyfriend, and at work with a handsy, obnoxious boss – all the while trying to investigate the background of this troubled child who tugs at her heart. Is his father harming him? What really happened to Edward’s mother two years ago? Delving into this family’s background thrusts Amy into danger that had me holding my breath and gripped to each page. What a fabulous read! Five stars!
December 2, 2019
I was keen to read this book. Both Farrar and Comley’s previous books have been favourites of mine, so when I heard that they had jointly written a book... I was very excited.
The setting in the 80s for this book is interesting, and the difference that made over the events had they happened in the current times is crucial.
I definitely recommend this book, with no hesitation at all. It’s a builder of tension, which steals time from you...
I’m keen to read the next book in the series.
The setting in the 80s for this book is interesting, and the difference that made over the events had they happened in the current times is crucial.
I definitely recommend this book, with no hesitation at all. It’s a builder of tension, which steals time from you...
I’m keen to read the next book in the series.
February 8, 2020
• Plot
Doctor Amy Penrose is a Psychologist for children\teenagers faced with eating disorders, mental health disorders etc. She became a Psychologist to help children\ teenager patients who like her grew up with a mother who is compulsive, obsessive etc. Her mother still wants a weekly phone call without fail, Amy does so even though she is uncomfortable doing so because of their unhealthy relationship.
Amy is living with Gary her partner although cracks are beginning to show in their relationship. He wants marriage and children. She wants to focus on her career helping people and afraid of who and what she will turn into. Other things start happening in her personal life.
She has a last-minute emergency appointment referred by social services for a teenager Edward, twelve who have been expelled from school due to fighting and other bad behaviours.
Amy immediately gets a gut instinct that something isn't right with Edward and his father, Robert Swain. And even more so once she discovers Edward's mother vanished 2 years ago without a trace.
• Characters
Doctor Amy Penrose - Instantly you are drawn in and become addictive to Amy Penrose character. From her childhood background to her new career her cracked relationship. Not sure whether she really needs therapy more or her patients.
Robert and Edward are interesting and frightening characters with many other disturbing personality traits.
• Writing Style
Absolutely bloody outstanding writing style, it is always nerve-wracking reading a book\books written by two authors together. But it flows beautifully. You wouldn't know that two people wrote this book at all.
• Pacing
A book which has you hook, line, and sinker from the first words. It is fast, addictive and terrifyingly perfect. A cracking start to a brand new series.
• Cover
A gorgeous eye-catching cover which pulls you within.
Read my reviews at www.readingthroughthepain.blog
Doctor Amy Penrose is a Psychologist for children\teenagers faced with eating disorders, mental health disorders etc. She became a Psychologist to help children\ teenager patients who like her grew up with a mother who is compulsive, obsessive etc. Her mother still wants a weekly phone call without fail, Amy does so even though she is uncomfortable doing so because of their unhealthy relationship.
Amy is living with Gary her partner although cracks are beginning to show in their relationship. He wants marriage and children. She wants to focus on her career helping people and afraid of who and what she will turn into. Other things start happening in her personal life.
She has a last-minute emergency appointment referred by social services for a teenager Edward, twelve who have been expelled from school due to fighting and other bad behaviours.
Amy immediately gets a gut instinct that something isn't right with Edward and his father, Robert Swain. And even more so once she discovers Edward's mother vanished 2 years ago without a trace.
• Characters
Doctor Amy Penrose - Instantly you are drawn in and become addictive to Amy Penrose character. From her childhood background to her new career her cracked relationship. Not sure whether she really needs therapy more or her patients.
Robert and Edward are interesting and frightening characters with many other disturbing personality traits.
• Writing Style
Absolutely bloody outstanding writing style, it is always nerve-wracking reading a book\books written by two authors together. But it flows beautifully. You wouldn't know that two people wrote this book at all.
• Pacing
A book which has you hook, line, and sinker from the first words. It is fast, addictive and terrifyingly perfect. A cracking start to a brand new series.
• Cover
A gorgeous eye-catching cover which pulls you within.
Read my reviews at www.readingthroughthepain.blog
December 10, 2019
This book is a collaboration between M A Comley and M K Farrar. It’s a psychological thriller series called Crime After Crime, this is book one in that series. Watching Over Me is the title.
It is set in London.
A father brings his twelve year old son into Amy’s office. She instantly recognises the bruises and how the boy withdraws into himself, she wants to help. Edward had been expelled from school as the headteacher finally decided they couldn’t deal with him anymore. He had a history of fighting, self-harm and intermittent eating disorders. Amy wanted to know what Edward had done that day to warrant being expelled. Edward finally told her that he had dissected a live frog in the science lab. He left it splayed across the bench, skinned and open with all its insides pinned to the wood. The headteacher reckoned he had never heard screams like the young teenagers who came back from lunch and saw the exhibit. Amy asked Edward, ‘Why did you do it?’ He shrugged, ‘That’s what they were there for.’ His dad, ‘they would have been gassed or something first. Also, it would have been done in a lesson.’ She asks Edward some more questions, including about his mother. She arranges for Edward to attend on his own as his father states he can’t get the time off work to attend the sessions.
She hurries home to her boyfriend Gary, wary of the fact that there were cracks beginning to appear in their relationship and he wasn’t happy when she arrived home late from work. He liked his dinner on the table when he came home from work which meant she had to cook it. Also they didn’t go out like they used to. He wanted them to get married and have kids which was something that Amy didn’t want. She certainly didn’t want kids and wasn’t sure about marriage, not with Gary. He kept going on about her putting her career before their relationship. She kept thinking of her parent’s relationship which hadn’t been great, she had to ring her mum once a week at a set time.
She starts looking into Edwards past in an effort to help him and gets completely caught up with it. She spoke to a social worker and got some more background on them. She went to the library and tried researching ways of trying to find Edward’s mother. When Edward didn’t turn up for a session and she hadn’t heard from him, she went round to the house. Robert Swain, his father, opened the door so Amy barged her way in and searched for Edward. When she found him in bed, she sat on the edge of the bed to check he was ok. He told her he was. His father stood in the doorway telling Amy to get out. The next day when the boss got a bit too close in the kitchenette, she told him in no uncertain terms to stay away, he wouldn’t accept he had done anything wrong. That evening, she got suspended from work, Mr Swain had complained.
This was really superb to read. Sometimes it was like being on a roller coaster! So thrilling were the chills but these two writers knew how to tease us readers right up to the end and what an ending it was! Well done ladies, roll on the next one, can’t wait.
It is set in London.
A father brings his twelve year old son into Amy’s office. She instantly recognises the bruises and how the boy withdraws into himself, she wants to help. Edward had been expelled from school as the headteacher finally decided they couldn’t deal with him anymore. He had a history of fighting, self-harm and intermittent eating disorders. Amy wanted to know what Edward had done that day to warrant being expelled. Edward finally told her that he had dissected a live frog in the science lab. He left it splayed across the bench, skinned and open with all its insides pinned to the wood. The headteacher reckoned he had never heard screams like the young teenagers who came back from lunch and saw the exhibit. Amy asked Edward, ‘Why did you do it?’ He shrugged, ‘That’s what they were there for.’ His dad, ‘they would have been gassed or something first. Also, it would have been done in a lesson.’ She asks Edward some more questions, including about his mother. She arranges for Edward to attend on his own as his father states he can’t get the time off work to attend the sessions.
She hurries home to her boyfriend Gary, wary of the fact that there were cracks beginning to appear in their relationship and he wasn’t happy when she arrived home late from work. He liked his dinner on the table when he came home from work which meant she had to cook it. Also they didn’t go out like they used to. He wanted them to get married and have kids which was something that Amy didn’t want. She certainly didn’t want kids and wasn’t sure about marriage, not with Gary. He kept going on about her putting her career before their relationship. She kept thinking of her parent’s relationship which hadn’t been great, she had to ring her mum once a week at a set time.
She starts looking into Edwards past in an effort to help him and gets completely caught up with it. She spoke to a social worker and got some more background on them. She went to the library and tried researching ways of trying to find Edward’s mother. When Edward didn’t turn up for a session and she hadn’t heard from him, she went round to the house. Robert Swain, his father, opened the door so Amy barged her way in and searched for Edward. When she found him in bed, she sat on the edge of the bed to check he was ok. He told her he was. His father stood in the doorway telling Amy to get out. The next day when the boss got a bit too close in the kitchenette, she told him in no uncertain terms to stay away, he wouldn’t accept he had done anything wrong. That evening, she got suspended from work, Mr Swain had complained.
This was really superb to read. Sometimes it was like being on a roller coaster! So thrilling were the chills but these two writers knew how to tease us readers right up to the end and what an ending it was! Well done ladies, roll on the next one, can’t wait.
November 29, 2019
What a cracking book this is. Once started I could not put it down until it was finished. The determination of a young psychologist to get to the bottom of the problems of a young patient, together with weird happenings in her personal life , kept me riveted to the very last page. In this book you have everything and more. From a newly qualified psychologist hoping to make a good impression in her first job, to a broken down relationship where Amy can’t see any future with Gary. She is happy to go it alone until mysterious things start to happen in the workplace. She oversteps the mark in trying to get to the bottom of the problems of her young patient and finds herself in deep deep water with no way out. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves a great edge of your seat thriller.
December 3, 2019
The pairing of these two brilliant authors is just genius! It is a thrilling read and one I couldn’t put down. The characterisation of Amy Penrose, a young psychologist and her 12–year-old client, Edward, is excellent.
Alongside the story of Amy’s psychologist role, we have the background tale of her relationship with her partner, Gary, and her strange connection with her mother.
All in all, this is a fantastic book and highly recommend. Cannot wait for more.
Alongside the story of Amy’s psychologist role, we have the background tale of her relationship with her partner, Gary, and her strange connection with her mother.
All in all, this is a fantastic book and highly recommend. Cannot wait for more.
November 29, 2019
As a child psychologist, Amy Penrose wants to help 12 year old Edward Swain when he turns up with his Dad at her office for an emergency appointment. Amy feels part of the problem lies in the disappearance of Edwards Mum 2 years ago. Did she up and leave or did something more sinister happen? Amy feels something is wrong and is determined to look further into the family.
With this going on, Amy’s relationship with her partner is not working well. Can they sort out their problems? Why does Amy have such a difficult relationship with her mother?
This is a fabulous book which kept me on the edge of my seat and wishing I could read it through my fingers! The story is tense and I was hooked from the start. This is a wonderful collaboration between 2 amazing authors. I am looking forward to reading more from these 2.
With this going on, Amy’s relationship with her partner is not working well. Can they sort out their problems? Why does Amy have such a difficult relationship with her mother?
This is a fabulous book which kept me on the edge of my seat and wishing I could read it through my fingers! The story is tense and I was hooked from the start. This is a wonderful collaboration between 2 amazing authors. I am looking forward to reading more from these 2.
November 30, 2019
I've read pretty much all of MA Comley's books but am new to MK Farrar. What an introduction to her. The both of them together know how to make you think and keep you flipping pages.
It's a twisted read, worthy of my ID Channel shows LOL. I don't know whether or not to be excited to meet them one day, or completely scared out of my mind.
If this series was a tv show, I would watch the heck out of it!! Brilliant ladies!!!
It's a twisted read, worthy of my ID Channel shows LOL. I don't know whether or not to be excited to meet them one day, or completely scared out of my mind.
If this series was a tv show, I would watch the heck out of it!! Brilliant ladies!!!
December 14, 2019
Watching over me by M.K Farrar and M.A Comley.
Omg. Two of my favourite authors coming together. Couldn't wait to read this. A brilliant twist and suspense read. Didn't let me down. I was pulled in right until the end. Looking forward to reading book 2. 5*. Highly recommended.
Omg. Two of my favourite authors coming together. Couldn't wait to read this. A brilliant twist and suspense read. Didn't let me down. I was pulled in right until the end. Looking forward to reading book 2. 5*. Highly recommended.
June 30, 2021
This story started off a little slow for me, but got better. Nice twist in who was watching over Amy. It was a view into the mind of someone really not "normal" in their way of thinking and behaving. Just goes to show you can never really know what lurks in the minds of others. Good characters and story. Didn't disappoint.
Read
August 18, 2023Dr Amy Penrose is an intelligent, well-educated woman – and an idiot.
I don’t know how to rate this one. I spent several days shouting at Amy to stop being so stupid. But also, I couldn’t put it down.
I don’t know how to rate this one. I spent several days shouting at Amy to stop being so stupid. But also, I couldn’t put it down.
November 28, 2019
What a fantastic book! So full of suspense it makes it hard to keep reading at times, you find yourself wanting to know what’s going to happen but you’re almost too scared to carry on reading!
Thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to more from this great partnership.
Thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to more from this great partnership.
March 4, 2023
It kept me reading, but I found it rather unbelievable that a psychologist would act in that manner. The outcome was also too predictable.
February 16, 2025
A good story, fairly well told. Not my favourite writing style - a little too much 'leading'. But having said that I would read this author again
March 26, 2020
Great read! Ready for the next book!
May 3, 2020
This wasn't a crime story with a large suspect pool; it's pretty obvious from the start who the villain is going to be. But that's okay. This story for me was all about the storytelling and the journey to the (predictable) outcome and I thought it was well written in that regard. The protagonist, Amy, however was hard to swallow; for an "educated" woman - as she herself states several times- she was not very bright; and totally unprofessional. The chapters toward the end were gripping, even though we know it's going to turn out. The theme of the story was interesting also; different from the usual blueprint for this genre.
July 16, 2020
The idea behind this book was good, but it lacked in execution. The main character is just foolish. So many times she knows what she SHOULD do, but never actually does. The plot line with her boss just fades away. It's a major point through the book and then...nothing. The twist at the end was no surprise; I knew what was going to happen from the moment I got to the end stages.
This isn't a bad book, but it could have been so much better.
This isn't a bad book, but it could have been so much better.
June 15, 2023
This story was a great psychological thriller, although I didn't like any of the characters - Amy was naive, while the rest just awful - they all fitted into the plot very well.
Plenty of tension and suspense and well-written, made this was a compelling read.
Recommended.
Plenty of tension and suspense and well-written, made this was a compelling read.
Recommended.
March 6, 2021
An illusion.
Amy Penrose has finally qualified, got her first job and lives with her boyfriend.
The blot on the horizon is her relationship with Gary. He wants to settle down to marraige, have a family, just like all his friends are doing.
Amy wants to get established in the career she loves and has worked hard for. Marriage & kids are not on her agenda and the cracks in their relationship are widening.
Meanwhile, at work, Amy has a new client. A twelve year old boy, who has behavioural issues, having been expelled from his school for bullying and he unnerved the teachers with his actions. He also self harms.
The boy arrives at her office with his father Robert, and she learns his mother disappeared a few years ago, having supposedly taken off with just a suitcase.
Amy isn't impressed with the father, suspecting him of having something to do with his wife's absence and his son's self harming. He looks like a bully and his appearance does nothing to dismiss this thought
The boy tells her he has only acted in self defence when being picked on at school and by his silence doesn't deny that his father physically abuses him.
She consults with the social worker, who referred him, and is advised that the child is manipulative, self harms and is a bully. Needless to say, Am is upset by this harsh assessment and continues to believe the child is the victim and the father responsible for his problems.
She even goes to speak to the officer who investigated the mother's disappearance, and is pleasantly surprised at the attractive man who she meets.He states there were some unanswered questions regarding the mother, there was no evidence to prove foul play.
Amy does find herself in the company of the mother, although not under the best circumstances.
Not a cosy read, as it deals with issues which are not pleasant to read about. Having said that it, the topic is well dealt with, and does prove that a certificate or degree may be good, it will never replace experience.
Amy Penrose has finally qualified, got her first job and lives with her boyfriend.
The blot on the horizon is her relationship with Gary. He wants to settle down to marraige, have a family, just like all his friends are doing.
Amy wants to get established in the career she loves and has worked hard for. Marriage & kids are not on her agenda and the cracks in their relationship are widening.
Meanwhile, at work, Amy has a new client. A twelve year old boy, who has behavioural issues, having been expelled from his school for bullying and he unnerved the teachers with his actions. He also self harms.
The boy arrives at her office with his father Robert, and she learns his mother disappeared a few years ago, having supposedly taken off with just a suitcase.
Amy isn't impressed with the father, suspecting him of having something to do with his wife's absence and his son's self harming. He looks like a bully and his appearance does nothing to dismiss this thought
The boy tells her he has only acted in self defence when being picked on at school and by his silence doesn't deny that his father physically abuses him.
She consults with the social worker, who referred him, and is advised that the child is manipulative, self harms and is a bully. Needless to say, Am is upset by this harsh assessment and continues to believe the child is the victim and the father responsible for his problems.
She even goes to speak to the officer who investigated the mother's disappearance, and is pleasantly surprised at the attractive man who she meets.He states there were some unanswered questions regarding the mother, there was no evidence to prove foul play.
Amy does find herself in the company of the mother, although not under the best circumstances.
Not a cosy read, as it deals with issues which are not pleasant to read about. Having said that it, the topic is well dealt with, and does prove that a certificate or degree may be good, it will never replace experience.
December 22, 2019
When two of my favourite authors come together to collaborate on a new series I know it's something I need in my life! And oh my days! What a cracking opener this book turned out to be.
Amy Penrose is a child psychologist. When we first meet her she has just had a referral come in. A young boy, 12yo Edward, has been expelled from school and social services have insisted he get therapy. He comes in with his father for his first appointment and presents as quiet and subdued. He also has bruising which he claims is self inflicted. Amy isn't sure and, well, to cut a long story short goes all in, defying her boss and code of conduct, to try and help the child.
I know I have already said it but - Oh My Days - this book hit the ground running, held me captive throughout and spat me out at its conclusion completely spent. It's pretty harrowing stuff all the way through with scant respite - although there is some which I was thankful for when it occurred. Amy's own background does influence her decisions and that is ably explained as, to be honest, some of her actions do need to be justified as she didn't just tear up the rule book, she shot the proverbial out of it!
It's also set in the 80s which I found quite refreshing. The authors have obviously done their research as it all felt quite authentic and it was interesting to compare then and now, if you get what I mean.
All in all, a cracking opener to a series that I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more! Roll on next time...
Amy Penrose is a child psychologist. When we first meet her she has just had a referral come in. A young boy, 12yo Edward, has been expelled from school and social services have insisted he get therapy. He comes in with his father for his first appointment and presents as quiet and subdued. He also has bruising which he claims is self inflicted. Amy isn't sure and, well, to cut a long story short goes all in, defying her boss and code of conduct, to try and help the child.
I know I have already said it but - Oh My Days - this book hit the ground running, held me captive throughout and spat me out at its conclusion completely spent. It's pretty harrowing stuff all the way through with scant respite - although there is some which I was thankful for when it occurred. Amy's own background does influence her decisions and that is ably explained as, to be honest, some of her actions do need to be justified as she didn't just tear up the rule book, she shot the proverbial out of it!
It's also set in the 80s which I found quite refreshing. The authors have obviously done their research as it all felt quite authentic and it was interesting to compare then and now, if you get what I mean.
All in all, a cracking opener to a series that I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more! Roll on next time...
January 3, 2022
Amy is a relatively newly minted psychologist who is absolutely dedicated to her profession and wants to help everyone that she can. And then Edward Swain lands in her office, and it’s a case that will be more than she bargained for.
He is a very troubled young man whose mother disappeared on him two years ago. His relationship with his father is quite strained and he is constantly in trouble at school. Amy’s gut tells her that there is more to the story, so she goes digging and unearths a whole heap of trouble.
I admire Amy’s strong desire to help others, especially a lost teenage boy. It seems like she is relatively good at what she does. But she also has a naivety about her, especially when it comes to her own personal circumstances. I kept reminding myself that this story takes place in the ‘80s, so that could have contributed, especially when dealing with her overly controlling boyfriend. But I was alarmed at a lot of personal situations, considering her profession.
And then, of course, you have the truly suspenseful portion of the book where Amy really gets herself into trouble. As the reader, I felt like I saw it coming because of her naivety.
This wasn’t my favorite book in this genre, but it wasn’t awful. It killed some time on a lazy afternoon. But I am also not in a hurry to grab the authors’ next installment. Other readers will definitely feel differently, and that’s great.
He is a very troubled young man whose mother disappeared on him two years ago. His relationship with his father is quite strained and he is constantly in trouble at school. Amy’s gut tells her that there is more to the story, so she goes digging and unearths a whole heap of trouble.
I admire Amy’s strong desire to help others, especially a lost teenage boy. It seems like she is relatively good at what she does. But she also has a naivety about her, especially when it comes to her own personal circumstances. I kept reminding myself that this story takes place in the ‘80s, so that could have contributed, especially when dealing with her overly controlling boyfriend. But I was alarmed at a lot of personal situations, considering her profession.
And then, of course, you have the truly suspenseful portion of the book where Amy really gets herself into trouble. As the reader, I felt like I saw it coming because of her naivety.
This wasn’t my favorite book in this genre, but it wasn’t awful. It killed some time on a lazy afternoon. But I am also not in a hurry to grab the authors’ next installment. Other readers will definitely feel differently, and that’s great.
April 1, 2024
Watching Over Me (Crime After Crime #1) by M.K. Farrar
Amy has a less than ideal childhood, but she strives to help children being a (Child) psychotherapist. When a very troubled twelve year old boy shows up at her office she does her best to help him. Her concern for this patient leads her down a dangerous path while determined to find the truth.
A fast paced thrilling psychological read. Attention to detail pulled me deep into the story. Some twists, turns and shocking revelations had me on edge. Compelling, intense and suspenseful from the first page until the last.
Overall I found Watching Over Me enjoyable. I highly recommend to those who enjoy psychological thrillers. I look forward to reading more by M.K. Farrar .
Amy has a less than ideal childhood, but she strives to help children being a (Child) psychotherapist. When a very troubled twelve year old boy shows up at her office she does her best to help him. Her concern for this patient leads her down a dangerous path while determined to find the truth.
A fast paced thrilling psychological read. Attention to detail pulled me deep into the story. Some twists, turns and shocking revelations had me on edge. Compelling, intense and suspenseful from the first page until the last.
Overall I found Watching Over Me enjoyable. I highly recommend to those who enjoy psychological thrillers. I look forward to reading more by M.K. Farrar .
December 15, 2019
This is book one in the Crime After Crime series. Meet Amy Penrose, she is a child psychologist now and her dream is to help troubled children. She is not only qualified with her degree but her childhood was not easy so there is actual experience to draw from if need be. Amy has a boyfriend, who wants to get married and have her stay home and raise the children. Her boss wants her to work late but not for work. She gets a new patient, a twelve year old boy that she recognizes his experience and wants to connect and help him. If you are looking for a book that will draw you in and keep you coming back for more......this is your next book. What a well written, hair raising tale for this new series. The characters are amazing and fit into the story so well. I cannot wait to read more in the series. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2020
Psychological thriller
A good psychological thriller that has an unsuspecting twist towards the end. Edward is a troubled 12 year old who is expelled from school and needs to go to therapy. His father Robert brings him to a psychotherapist, Amy, who feels there is something wrong in his household. Edward’s mother had supposedly run away from home 2 years prior and Amy thinks this is the root of Edward’s problem along with his probably abusive father. Amy suspects there is something else going on and goes to the police. David, the original policeman who investigated the disappearance, is the policeman who Amy talks to and he agrees to look at the case again. Amy gets really involved with Edward and tries to help him. In the process she is suspended from her job. She also breaks up with her boyfriend of 4 years so she is basically on her own. The twist in the story is well thought out by the authors. I will be interested in other novels both women have written.
A good psychological thriller that has an unsuspecting twist towards the end. Edward is a troubled 12 year old who is expelled from school and needs to go to therapy. His father Robert brings him to a psychotherapist, Amy, who feels there is something wrong in his household. Edward’s mother had supposedly run away from home 2 years prior and Amy thinks this is the root of Edward’s problem along with his probably abusive father. Amy suspects there is something else going on and goes to the police. David, the original policeman who investigated the disappearance, is the policeman who Amy talks to and he agrees to look at the case again. Amy gets really involved with Edward and tries to help him. In the process she is suspended from her job. She also breaks up with her boyfriend of 4 years so she is basically on her own. The twist in the story is well thought out by the authors. I will be interested in other novels both women have written.
May 3, 2020
I really like the work of both these authors individually so was looking for to this novel which is the first part of a series.
I am afraid I found Amy irritating, unconvincing and not particularly relatable. I work in mental health and have done since the early 1980's and it was a different place to where we are now, indeed I knew a psychologist just like Timothy! However there were too many leaps in this tale, too much jumping to conclusions to make this as good a read as it could be. I felt that the protagonist was easy to spot from very early on and some of the characters were a bit one dimensional.
The scenes towards the end of the book were well written and gripping, and worth waiting for and it shows just what these authors can do.
The Narrator read quite well and it was easy to tell the different voices, but I would have liked a little more tonal variation .
So for me this was a three star read.
I am afraid I found Amy irritating, unconvincing and not particularly relatable. I work in mental health and have done since the early 1980's and it was a different place to where we are now, indeed I knew a psychologist just like Timothy! However there were too many leaps in this tale, too much jumping to conclusions to make this as good a read as it could be. I felt that the protagonist was easy to spot from very early on and some of the characters were a bit one dimensional.
The scenes towards the end of the book were well written and gripping, and worth waiting for and it shows just what these authors can do.
The Narrator read quite well and it was easy to tell the different voices, but I would have liked a little more tonal variation .
So for me this was a three star read.
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