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Hiding in Plain Sight

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A vicious serial killer roams the Irish Midlands... with his sights set on the next victim. A successful businessman has found the perfect recipe for getting away with murder. No bodies, no evidence.No evidence, no suspect.High art and low morals collide when graduate Sharona Waters discovers a multi-million euro art scam in play. She delves in, unwittingly putting herself on a direct trajectory with danger as the killer accelerates his murder spree. When Sharona gets drawn into the killer’s orbit, she peels away his public persona and exposes the psychopath underneath. Suddenly, the small town has no hiding place…

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2022

18 people are currently reading
39 people want to read

About the author

Eoghan Egan

6 books12 followers

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5 stars
29 (39%)
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34 (46%)
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4 (5%)
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3 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings).
1,798 reviews306 followers
April 29, 2022
I recently read Eoghan Egan’s second in The Ganestown Trilogy, ‘The Other Side of Fear’ and was overwhelmed with the writing and the explosive storyline by this talented Irish author.

“Hiding in Plain Sight” is the first book in this series and is equally as addictive and fiery.

- ‘Small towns conceal big secrets’ - A vicious serial killer roams the Irish Midlands with his sights set on the next victim. A successful businessman has found the perfect recipe for getting away with murder. No bodies, no evidence. No evidence, no suspect.

Although both these books can easily be read as a standalone, I enjoyed the fact that I was able to connect storylines and characters to the events I’d read about previously. In particular, the author has incorporated an emotional theme of Alzheimer’s and the effects it has, not just on the victim but the family too. In this book, Hugh is in denial about his mother’s diagnosis and the author handled the subject sympathetically from both points of view.

I do love a twisted serial killer in stories. And this one is up there with some of the best. Eoghan has written a superb thriller that he’s cleverly balanced violence and murder, with relationship issues and illness and an interesting story of art forgery tied in with a serial murderer, touching on gambling addiction and the #MeToo movement as well. Not once do you get left behind on any of the topics and the tension moves along quite speedily, accumulating in a fast paced denouement. Having read the second book, I now can’t wait for the third instalment in The Ganestown Trilogy and I’m more than happy to follow this author well into future.

Atmospherically Irish with some great characters I have come to love, Ferdia, Hugh, Sharona and Ronan to mention only a few, I can wholeheartedly recommend these books if you’re looking for a new crime series to follow. Lots of content, addictive characters and engrossing storylines will be keep you happily entertained for hours.

#HidingInPlainSight - 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Dana-Adriana B..
768 reviews302 followers
March 30, 2020
Somebody is killing young women in the Irish Midlands and nobody can see the connections. I really enjoyed the plot and the characters and I want to read more of Eoghan Egan.
Thank you Nethalley for this nice book.
Profile Image for pawsreadrepeat.
617 reviews31 followers
April 9, 2023
I received an advance review and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you, Partners @zooloosbooktours and @eoghanegan.Thank you for my #giftedbook and spot on the tour!

Hiding in Plain sight is an intriguing debut. The synopsis piqued my curiosity and the book kept me engaged. What I like most about this psychological thriller is that we are taken to a number of crime scenes. Bringing the reader to the crime scene is genius, I felt like I had a front row seat to the murder. This book is well written and filled with twists you won't see coming. I also appreciated being given an insiders look at the killers planning and how their mind works.

I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Jackiesreadingcorner.
1,127 reviews34 followers
April 2, 2022
Having just finished this book in two sittings, I can honestly say what a brilliant read for a debut novel. From page one, the opening line tell’s us that ‘The Art Dealer’ is a killer, but who is the art dealer? the beginning is gripping and fast paced as we learn that this is his seventh victim. We don’t know why, is he just bad? Who has he killed previously? Why? The next few chapters I found a little slow, but it is necessary to set up the background story, introduce the reader to all the characters, this is not just a serial killer story it’s so much more.

It’s about family, business, relationships, gambling addiction, loss of jobs, Alzheimer’s, art fraud, and a bit of #MeToo as well. I read crime mostly because I try to steer away from something that is going to set me off crying. But sometimes it even happens in crime stories and this one had me in tears, towards the end, but that’s just me, my emotions are easily switched on. But what that told me as a reader was I had feelings for those characters, for what they were going through. If a writer does that then it can’t be a bad thing.

The characters are all well rounded and thought out, relatable, believable, you know who you like and who you don’t like, on the whole most of them are pretty decent people, but there are a couple that are all about themselves. As in real life. I love Hugh Fallon he is a great character, he puts everyone before himself. I also like Ferdia Hardiman his and Hugh’s chats are always good. Each there for the other. Several other good ones too, but I don’t want to name them all. I’m also not going to give too much about the story out, sometimes I know I end up almost retelling the story, but I am trying to steer away from that and just give my opinion, on what I thought.

We do learn who the art dealer is, I think I guessed who he was before the name was given, but I thought it was going to be one of those stories where you get the big reveal at the end. But I liked how this was done, it worked as the narcissistic psychopath’s name is revealed, and how things then progress. The killer is meticulous, plans everything out brilliantly, maybe I shouldn’t really say that about a serial killer, but the writer in creating the killer, goes through every clever little stage, that if you want to get away with killing, you need to think about. At one part of the story I couldn’t flip the pages quick enough, my heart was pounding so fast, no that’s not an exaggeration.

My only one criticism, and it may only be because I have an ecopy of this book possibly before, it was printed, not yet the final edited copy, was occasionally the conversation would change and you weren’t 100% sure who was speaking, another bit was when the killer is reading a letter it wasn’t laid out as a letter, which would have looked better, as it took me a few minutes to realise what it was. Once I did it was fine. Other than that there is a lot going on in the story, and it keeps you engaged from start to finish. The end isn’t rushed. I would like to have seen the trial, but as this is book one of a trilogy who knows what is to come in the next two books. I got one cannot wait.

I give this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️out of ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and will be looking out for the next book. If you are looking to give a new writer a read grab a copy of this now it is a good read, believable, relatable characters.
Profile Image for Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings).
1,798 reviews306 followers
April 26, 2022
I recently read Eoghan Egan’s second in The Ganestown Trilogy, ‘The Other Side of Fear’ and was overwhelmed with the writing and the explosive storyline by this talented Irish author.

“Hiding in Plain Sight” is the first book in this series and is equally as addictive and fiery.

- ‘Small towns conceal big secrets’ - A vicious serial killer roams the Irish Midlands with his sights set on the next victim. A successful businessman has found the perfect recipe for getting away with murder. No bodies, no evidence. No evidence, no suspect.

Although both these books can easily be read as a standalone, I enjoyed the fact that I was able to connect storylines and characters to the events I’d read about previously. In particular, the author has incorporated an emotional theme of Alzheimer’s and the effects it has, not just on the victim but the family too. In this book, Hugh is in denial about his mother’s diagnosis and the author handled the subject sympathetically from both points of view.

I do love a twisted serial killer in stories. And this one is up there with some of the best. Eoghan has written a superb thriller that he’s cleverly balanced violence and murder, with relationship issues and illness and an interesting story of art forgery tied in with a serial murderer, touching on gambling addiction and the #MeToo movement as well. Not once do you get left behind on any of the topics and the tension moves along quite speedily, accumulating in a fast paced denouement. Having read the second book, I now can’t wait for the third instalment in The Ganestown Trilogy and I’m more than happy to follow this author well into future.

Atmospherically Irish with some great characters I have come to love, Ferdia, Hugh, Sharona and Ronan to mention only a few, I can wholeheartedly recommend these books if you’re looking for a new crime series to follow. Lots of content, addictive characters and engrossing storylines will be keep you happily entertained for hours.

#HidingInPlainSight - 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Colin Garrow.
Author 51 books143 followers
January 26, 2022
In the Irish Midlands a serial killer is on the lookout for his next victim. With the perfect means of disposing of the bodies, he’s convinced he’ll never be caught. Meanwhile, graduate Sharona Waters discovers an art scam involving forgeries of famous paintings. But her curiosity places her in the killer’s path…

This is the first book by Eoghan Egan in what I believe is to be a crime-thriller trilogy. I was drawn to it by an intriguing opening line: ‘Just before afternoon coffee break, the art dealer decided to kill Roberta Lord’. Unsurprisingly, the exploits of the killer are the most interesting aspect of this book, while a myriad of other roles fill in the gaps of what’s happening in the small community where the action takes place. With a number of storylines going on simultaneously I did get a little confused as to who was who, and also wondered where the story was going at times. However, it’s a good read and though the author takes his time wrapping everything up at the end, it was good to see that most of the players get what they deserve.

A great first novel with a deliciously twisted predator at its core.
Profile Image for MoMo Book Diary.
471 reviews63 followers
January 26, 2020
I enjoyed this explosive novel which has an opening sure to hook most readers.

I felt the introduction of so many characters in such a short space of time gave a clunky (is that even a word?) beginning to the book however I am glad I persevered with the story which certainly had me turning page after page.

The characters themselves are well rounded and the author hints at secrets and mystery throughout the story. I found the book to be extremely well-written, especially for a debut novel, and the story moved with a faster pace the more I read. By the time I was halfway through I knew there was no chance of me moving from the couch until I reached the end and discovered the mystery within.

I especially liked the way the author has left us with some loose ends which I am sure will be fleshed out in the next book - this is the first of three and I am very much looking forward to reading the next one as soon as I can get my hands on a copy!
21 reviews
April 15, 2022
Book 1 in the trilogy, definitely leaves you excited for books 2 and 3! This is my favourite genre of book, and the fact that it's set in Ireland gives it a wonderfully different vibe. Loved this, and book 2, can't wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Vicki (chaptersofvicki).
645 reviews19 followers
April 10, 2023
This book immediately grabbed my attention right from the start, as I’m sure it would most readers.

There are a lot of characters but I soon grasped who was who and was interested in finding out who the mysterious ‘art dealer’ character was. I really liked Hugh he was such a likeable guy with not much luck on his side.

The chapters were quite long but they were split into different parts of the day so I was eager to keep turning pages to know what would happen next.

There is a mixture of things going on beside the murders and the mystery surrounding that. There is also friendship, love and a happy ending.

I can’t wait to get reading the next book. Hard to believe this was a debut it seemed to flow so well.

Thank you to Zooloo’s book tours for having me on the tour and to the author for my gifted copy of the book.
695 reviews3 followers
February 1, 2021
What a bunch of nonsense. This was supposed to be about a serial killer. But, instead centered on a group of people whose connections were unclear. Don't waste your time on this muddle. I should have chucked it into the DNF bin.
Profile Image for Karen Cole.
1,108 reviews166 followers
April 10, 2023
Last year I read and reviewed the second novel in Eoghan Egan's Ganestown Trilogy, The Other Side of Fear. I loved it but regretted not having read the first book, Hiding in Plain Sight. It's been a year but I've finally rectified that and thoroughly enjoyed discovering how the characters I became so invested in are introduced and first developed.
There is a really striking sense of place in Hiding in Plain Sight, thanks in part to the liberal scattering of Irish Gaelic words (there's a handy guide explaining their meaning at the front of the book). Ganestown might be a fictional town in the Irish Midlands but the cast of characters who inhabit it epitomise the sort of close-knit community that exists all over. It is initially slightly confusing figuring out the links between people but how the characters are connected to one another does become clearer and there's also an explanatory cast list at the front which helps. One of the major characters, however, isn't named until later in the novel and is just known as the art dealer. His anonymity only serves to add to his menace as he acts upon his wicked plans and he's a thoroughly despicable, terrifying individual.
However, this is a multilayered storyline and the actions of a chilling serial killer are just one strand in this consistently engaging book. The three stand-out characters for me are Hugh, Ferdia and Sharona. It's fair to say that Hugh is going through a difficult time; it's observed that bad luck comes in threes and that's certainly the case for him. He learns some truly heartbreaking news at the same time as suffering knocks in his personal and professional life. Hugh could easily have become a pitiable figure but Eoghan Egan ensures he is never pushover and yet retains his integrity. Likewise, Ferdia is the very embodiment of the rough diamond; having already read the sequel I enjoyed seeing how elements of what takes place in that book are set in motion here, partially due to Ferdia's actions. Meanwhile, it's soon obvious that Sharona's an intelligent, forthright young woman and I particularly appreciated her interactions with the redoubtable Dorothy Ridgeway.
The interchanges between all the characters are beautifully observed and completely believable, even those who are not as likeable but this is a dark and gritty novel at times with some truly shocking developments. The tension becomes almost unbearable as the art dealer's dreadful plans further abductions and murders and even though I had some idea of the outcome having read the series out of order, I was still utterly gripped throughout. However, I would recommend reading the books chronologically and therefore the way the author intended, if possible!
The balance between the warmth and humour shared between friends and families, and the much darker elements in society is commendable from start to finish; Hiding in Plain Sight is a terrifically compulsive thriller. I highly recommend it and look forward to more.
Profile Image for Sharon Rimmelzwaan.
1,456 reviews42 followers
April 30, 2023
A crime thriller from a debut novelist that I must say I have heard a lot about. I definitely had high expectations when I started to read Hiding In Plain Sight. Before I give you my full thoughts, all I will say is: bring on the series!

Eoghan Egan sets the scene well. We are introduced to the 'art dealer'. A man who is planning his next kill, but who is he? That's the question that begs to be answered as the story unfolds. Set in Midlands, Ireland, I was whisked to a country I have never visited, and, for me, it gave me a truly different vibe.

It is a story that isn't just a serial killer thriller. There is fraud, family, relationships, and so much more that gives it depth and had me care about the characters. I almost inhaled this book, It was that good! It does begin at a fast pace but slows a little as Eoghan Egan lets the reader get to grips with everyone and everything that's happening. I appreciated the slowing of pace, as there are quite a few characters.

The characters really made the story for me. They were well crafted, believable, and relatable too. I admit to having a soft spot for Hugh. His struggles with his mums Alzheimers just tugged on my heart strings. There were those who I didn't care for, but that was how they were meant to be taken.

A book that brought a thrilling story with many different threads that made it feel like the pages were almost turning themselves! Such a gripping tale. I got to a point where I was on the edge of my seat, and my blood pressure wasn't at a safe level, I am sure!

I thoroughly enjoyed every part of the book. Be it the art side or the murdering. It didn't matter. Everything interlocked, creating a gripping, immersive, entertaining, and, oh, so addictive read that I finished in two sittings. I am so looking forward to the next book!
Thanks to ZooLoo's Book Tours and City Stone Publishing for the copy of the book to write my honest review
Profile Image for Lost_in_her_bookland .
203 reviews11 followers
February 4, 2020
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐛𝐲 ⁣@eganeoghan @eoghanegan ⁣⁣
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5⁣⁣
This was so kindly gifted to me by the author who has been so interactive and involved with his readers, and that goes a long way. ⁣⁣
⁣⁣
This is the authors debut novel and is based in Ireland. A successful businessman has created his own side line of murder, and while there is no evidence or suspect, the murders will not stop.⁣⁣
When Sharona Waters uncovers an art scam in play, the killer is caught out, but not before others get hurt. ⁣⁣
⁣⁣
I found it a difficult start with lots of characters and scenarios to get my head around. While the main storyline and character is the art dealer serial killer, I actually fell for Hugh, someone caught up in the mess, fragile yet a hero.⁣⁣
I also loved how in such a thrilling haunting book, it had the perfect mix of love, family bonding and happy endings thrown in.⁣⁣
⁣⁣
I was disappointed one character didnt come back from the dead, when you get a feeling it cant go that bad and it does. I wanted more!⁣⁣
⁣⁣
The book was written with very long chapters, that flowed and flowed, and I felt compelled to keep going. There was a lot of Irish slang, and while for a born and bred brit, it was hard to keep up with, I absolutely loved the different culture.⁣⁣
⁣⁣
Incredibly well written, no errors as you so often see in big releases. Hidden gem to the thriller world. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review Eoghan.⁣

#bookreview #debutnovel #crimethriller #crimebooks #newbook #newrelease #paperback #booksbooksbooks #bookpost #bookstagram #books #bookblogger #bookcommunity #bookstagrammer #ilovereading #addictedtobooks #bookworm #irishcrimenovel #eoghaneganauthor #hidinginplainsight
Profile Image for Ashley Gillan.
833 reviews22 followers
December 29, 2019
This book really opens with a bang and doesn’t let up until the final pages. It’s a serial killer thriller, but with a few twists - the subplots surrounding the central mystery involve a massive art scam, a family in crisis, and more. I really enjoyed that it wasn’t a monotonous story and that there were plenty of stories to follow.

The basic premise is that a serial killer has been stalking and murdering young women in the Irish Midlands, but no one seems to have connected the dots yet. However, things begin to come to a head as an art scam rears it’s head and two prominent families head toward a collision that will change everyone’s lives.

First, of all I loved the setting of the Irish midlands, which was a nice change of pace from stories set in Dublin or Cork, etc. It was interesting to picture this beautiful, snow-covered area and then read about some pretty gruesome things happening there.

I really liked the characters as well. Hugh and Ferdia were personal favorites. Since this is the first in a new trilogy, I’m excited to see what happens to them over time.

The central mystery was also really thrilling. It was really satisfying to see the villain go down, because he is the type of person who just makes your skin crawl, the kind that thinks they are smarter and better than everyone else. It ended very satisfactorily and I was not disappointed with how things turned out.

Overall, I’m excited to continue this story in the coming two books and i highly recommend that others pick up this well-written story, which combines mystery, drama and some nice twists.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Amys Bookshelf Reviews.
871 reviews78 followers
February 23, 2023
Magnetic from the beginning!

Eoghan Egan writes a thrilling tale with Hiding in Plain Sight. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. This book is part of the Ganestown Crime Series, and this is volume one. From the start, this narrative is extremely action packed, and thrilling. It's right there. The killer getting away with murder in a small town. He's just an ordinary businessman, right? Looking for the perfect victim for his perfected perfect crime, or at least that's what he thinks. He's searching the Irish-Midlands, which, if you don't know, is a region covered by the counties of Laois, Offaly, Westmeath and Longford, in Ireland. The reader is not just introduced to the killer, but also Sharona, who is investigating an art scam, and not realizing she is on the killer's radar. Sharona is a tenacious and determined to discover the truth, even if it kills her. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. Absolutely chilling, with death around every corner. Whatever this author writes, I want to read. It's absolutely breathtaking! Hiding in Plain Sight is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
Profile Image for Misfits farm.
2,091 reviews86 followers
January 13, 2020
A book with several plot lines to keep you thinking all the way. An art dealer has killed a woman and is trying to lure his next victim. He has killed several times before and leaves no trace of bodies, the women only ever being listed as missing. Meanwhile in a group of friends one woman has found her husband is having an affair, little knowing the mistress is one of the group. One of the men is up for redundancy, his wife seemingly not understanding the need to cut back and “needing” her weekly hair appointment and expensive accoutrements. Another small group are operating an art scam, replacing valuable works of art with fakes and selling on the real ones. Sharona discovers this and puts the police into action. Meanwhile the killer is up to his old tricks, several women now being in his sights. This is one of those reads where you need your wits about you. There are alot of characters and no detective as such, however this is well written and I soon got into it. A mystery within a scam within a scandal. A different, very entertaining read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
Profile Image for Jane Hunt.
Author 3 books114 followers
January 30, 2020
A brilliant, fast-paced beginning, gets the adrenaline pumping and the mind working, wondering what next?

Then, the frenetic pace slows and a multitude of new characters are introduced, Some have a connection to the 'Art Dealer', others don't, yet. The pacing in this part of the story is slow, but necessary for the reader to meet the players, appreciate their connections and dynamics, and to realise this story is about more than just a serial killer on the rampage.

The setting is atmospheric and the characters are believable, some are easy to empathise, others the opposite, but they all provoke a reaction. The plot is twisty and doesn't give up all its secrets, there are avenues to be explored at a later date.

The intensity returns as the story progresses. The killer escalates, and the art crime and family drama subplots reach a crescendo as the plot strands fuse. I like the originality of the setting and the fusion of genres, which is cleverly done, making the story authentic and addictive.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.

Profile Image for Charissa Wilkinson.
836 reviews13 followers
December 16, 2022
I received this book courtesy of City Stone Publishing for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Overview: A small town in Ireland is suffering under the pangs of a deep recession. The last thing the town needs is a monster lurking in its midst. But what other explanation is there for the women, young mothers, that keep disappearing? Add to that, the face that Charlie's friend is missing a valuable painting. What will Ganestown do with this situation.

Dislikes: We spent a disturbing amount of time in the killer's mind. This, of course, is a matter of personal taste. I'm sure many others won't have a problem with this part.

And then we have Eilish. Let's just say that my patience for such selfishness is...limited.

Likes: While we did spend a lot of time with the killer, we were left in the dark about the killer's identity.

Hugh was an honorable man. He made the book for me. We could use more men like him in the world. Besides, you need to catch his rescue run

And thankfully we get the Irish-English dictionary before the story starts. That makes things easier.

Conclusion: This was fun. Pick it up if the cozy genre has gotten too stale for your tastes.
Profile Image for Nicola.
184 reviews3 followers
February 27, 2020
A vicious serial killer roams the Irish Midlands... with his sights set on the next victim. 

A number of women have mysteriously disappeared, leaving no trace, nothing to tie anyone to their disappearance. No bodies have been found, no evidence at their homes, nothing.
This book has quite a cast of characters and it did take me some time to get to grips with who was who, but once I did I was hooked. Each character has their own thing going on but they are all linked to the soon to be uncovered psychopathic murders carried out by a well respected Art Dealer.
As well as murder, there's an affair, an art scam, redundancy, gambling addiction and the onset of dementia. The scenes regarding the dementia were handled very sensitively and with good knowledge I felt.
At times during this book, I found myself totally on edge. It was such a thrilling read. When I came to the end I couldn't believe it. I look forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy.
200 reviews
March 8, 2020
Hiding in Plain Sight is a fast paced and gripping thriller. It is simultaneously so much more than a crime novel. It explores many themes, such as friendship, relationships, financial and business concerns, gambling, family dynamics, Alzheimer’s and other potential health issues, to name a few. I really enjoyed the multifaceted plot.

The book features a large cast of intertwined and well-developed characters. Egan’s ability to create characters which evoke strong emotions, both positive and negative, in the reader, is a rare quality in a debut novelist.

I also loved the strong sense of place and Irishness which permeates the novel.

The story commences when snow has enveloped the Irish Midlands. This sense of coldness is mirrored in the heartlessness of the serial killer and simultaneously seems to amplify the hardships experienced by some of the novel’s more beloved characters. Egan’s clever use of climate also extends to the reader and intensifies the emotions that I experienced, such as worry, dread, excitement and curiosity.

Egan has created a page turner and I am eagerly anticipating the second instalment in the trilogy.
Profile Image for Claire.
1,106 reviews183 followers
April 6, 2023
The art dealer is a sinister soul, stalkerish, one hell of a planner for his kills. He uses the elements to his benefits. Will this man be caught before he kills again?!?

As Egan introduced me to his cast who each played their part in this crime thriller, he made me jump between story lines to stop me getting to the truth of who the killer is. He prevented me for choosing my culprit by spiriting me away before I got chance.

What seemed a disjointed story to start with slowly began to weave its various threads to produce a tapestry of murder, sorrow and bravery. As the art world clashes with the crime world and the story finished its pattern to behold I tapped my kindle faster to find out whether the art dealer would get his comeuppance. A chilling murder mystery from Egan and not just because it’s set in the depths of an Irish winter!
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,673 reviews12 followers
April 7, 2023
It took me a while to get into this one, but when I did, I found it unputdownable.

The are several story threads active throughout the book that seamlessly come together. First up, in the Irish Midlands a serial killer is on the loose, whilst in the art world, Sharona Waters, graduate, is uncovering a scam involving fake paintings.


Hugh Fallon is coming to terms with his mother's recent Alzheimer's diagnosis. I loved the friendship between him and Ferdia, even after his redundancy they remained great friends.

But who is The Art Dealer?

But who is The Art Dealer?

As debuts go this was an absolute cracker and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm diving straight into The Other Side of Fear this afternoon. Come back tomorrow for my review.

Many thanks to Zooloo's Book Tours for my tour spot.

Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Donna Morfett.
Author 9 books71 followers
April 8, 2023
A serial killer is working so efficiently in a small town in Ireland that the police don't even realise there is one at work. The method of snatch and disposal being so efficient. They assume the women have run off.
The killer, who is revealed from the start is a right arrogant so and so and I hoped he'd be caught quickly and put in his place. Narcissistic and ruthless, one of life's despicable creatures.
I loved all the characters in this and their relationships. A lot of friendly banter but serious when needed. Ferdia was a lot of fun and poor Hugh. The dialogue is snappy, quick fire and you find you race through the pages to keep up with it.
A truly excellently written book and I'm looking forward to sharing my review of the next one.
Author 1 book9 followers
April 17, 2023
A novel full of art dealers, a very big scam, affairs and murder.

This captured me from the start opening straight to a murder; which I think is the best way to capture the reader!

I did find there were a lot of characters and had to get my head around them but this was a great read. However, I did find this a little slow in places as there was a lot of backstories to get through but once it picked up I couldn’t stop trying to guess who was the murderer.

I loved the character of Hugh who was consistent throughout and just felt for him with what happens in his personal life throughout the novel. This narrative is told through the different characters which is a great way to give us multiple points of view.






Profile Image for Laini.
92 reviews
December 28, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Hiding In Plain Sight is a thriller set in the midlands in Ireland, love reading about places I’ve known my whole life. It chronicles the impact a series of murders has on a small local community. It has a large cast which is introduced in very quick succession but once I figured out who was who, I became completely attached to all of them and the book turns into an unputdownable read. There are thrilling scenes which completely took me by surprise and there were times I wanted to read with my fingers over my eyes! Great debut novel and the main issue I have with this book is that it had to end! Looking forward to reading more!
Profile Image for Sheri.
1,743 reviews53 followers
April 7, 2023
An Irish thriller involving the art world, this story is a good read. It is told almost in two stories. The story of the art dealer and a group of friends going through a rough time with layoffs and breakups. The stories stay separate at the beginning but you know they have to connect. I loved looking for clues to connect them. My favorite story was of the art dealer, which I’m not sure what that says about me because he was a killer! The art dealer is very meticulous about his plans making sure he could not be connected through his victims. An engaging read and I’m excited to read the next book in the trilogy!
Profile Image for Caroline Venables.
627 reviews8 followers
February 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this book, and was really surprised it was a debut novel. There are several different story lines running throughout the book and the author does well to link them all together as the book goes on.

A serial killer has literally been getting away with murder, and he is looking for his next victim. None of his victim’s bodies have been found, so no-one knows these people are dead.

Sharona Waters is about to get drawn into the killer’s world when she discovers a multi million pound art scam. Has the killer met his match?
20 reviews1 follower
April 22, 2020
This author has a fine way with words – the prose is extremely sharp and slick. Packed with drama, tension and snappy dialogue it bowls along effortlessly, making you want to read more and more. I really enjoyed the way it cut between the different characters and their stories, pulling them together as the tension built. The scenes from the serial killer’s point of view were – not surprisingly – quite harrowing at times and not for the faint heated. I know it's an over-used phrase, but this really is a page turner, with engaging characters and a meaty, cleverly-woven storyline.
Profile Image for Hilly Barmby.
Author 3 books14 followers
August 19, 2022
What I loved about this book is that the characters all felt real, and their dialogue was great (where they talked over each other or butted in). The descriptions of the area (where I have never visited) were excellent, to the point where I felt chilly, and I live in southern Spain! I was shocked when a character we all really liked was a victim and hoped it wasn't true... I loved Ferdia, even though he was not a main character. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it if you like a twisty-turny thriller.
Profile Image for Sophie Narey (Bookreview- aholic) .
1,063 reviews127 followers
April 11, 2023
Now this genre is one that completely pulls me towards it and this book didn't disappoint one bit!

It was fast paced, intriguing , a mysterious setting in the Irish Highlands, great characters to read about, twists and turns... I mean what more could you want?

This is an author that is new to me and with it being one of my favourite genres my expectations are rather high... this book is up there with some of the best. This is a story about a serial killer... only there are no bodies and no evidence.. I won't tell you more because you should just read it !
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