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Kramer & Carver #2
The Abduction
Kramer and Carver are back…
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
- GenresFiction
419 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2019
About the author
A.A. Chaudhuri
18 books178 followersA.A. Chaudhuri is a former City lawyer turned thriller writer, born and raised in Portsmouth, but who now lives in Surrey with her family. Once a highly ranked British junior tennis player, competing in the national championships and a member of the national squad, she went on to tour the women’s professional satellite circuit as a teenager and achieved a world ranking of 650.
THE SCRIBE (republished in October 2024 as THE LAWYER) and THE ABDUCTION (republished in February 2025 as THE PARTNER), published by LUME BOOKS in July and December 2019, are her first crime book series, plunging readers into London’s glamorous legal world and featuring series’ heroine, Maddy Kramer, fiction’s first female City lawyer amateur sleuth, who teams up with charismatic DCI Jake Carver to solve a gruesome series of murders and a puzzling abduction. THE SCRIBE and THE ABDUCTION were published as audio books by Isis Audio on 1st January and 1st March 2021, both read by David Thorpe.
She has also contributed an original short story THE ENCOUNTER to crime anthology GIVEN IN EVIDENCE published by LUME BOOKS in May 2020, has written many articles and short stories for The Crime Writers’ Association.
Her first psychological thriller with HERA BOOKS, SHE’S MINE, was published in e-book, paperback and audio in August 2021, the second, THE LOYAL FRIEND, was published in all three formats in June 2022 and published in the USA by Canelo US on 20th June 2023. Her third, THE FINAL PARTY, was published in e-book and paperback on May 25th 2023. and released in audiobook on 1st February 2024.
Her fourth psychological thriller - UNDER HER ROOF - was released in e-book, paperback and audio on 13th June 2024. THE SCHOOL GATES will be published on 5th June 2025.
Besides being an avid reader, she enjoys fitness, films, anything Italian and a good margarita!
All of Alex's books have achieved bestseller status on Amazon UK, Amazon US, Amazon Australia and Amazon Canada.
Twitter: A.A. Chaudhuri (@AAChaudhuri) / Twitter
Facebook: A.A. Chaudhuri | Facebook
Instagram: A.A. Chaudhuri (Author) (@a.a.chaudhuri) • Instagram photos and videos
Instagram: A.A. Chaudhuri (@aachaudhuri) • Instagram photos and videos
TikTok: A.A. Chaudhuri (@alexchaudhuri0923) | TikTok
LinkedIn: A.A. Chaudhuri | LinkedIn
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 10, 2019
Easily 4.5 stars!!
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, A.A. Chaudhuri, and Endeavour Media for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Returning with a thrilling follow-up to her explosive debut novel, A.A. Chaudhuri takes readers back into a world where the criminal element are highly deceptive and calculating at the same time. When a group of masked men storm into a London law firm, they choose a handful of hostages, including one partner, before disappearing. Amongst those huddled under the tables is Maddy Kramer, still trying to come to grips with crimes committed at her last law firm. DCI Jake Carver arrives to take control of the situation and begins his investigation, which includes who these men might have been and why the hostages were chosen. When the hostage takers reach out to Nigel Davenport, one of the firm’s senior partners, he learns that he must pay the ante or face ruin. A timetable is offered and Davenport is eager to do what he can, fearing his secrets will be revealed to the world. No one seems the wiser, as deadlines arrive and demands are met. When the hostages are released, one would assume that this is the end of it, but Carver and Kramer have other plans, looking into a rape allegation against Nigel Davenport, back from his days at Cambridge. Why would the hostage takers want this old crime brought to the surface and how deep does the devastation run? As Carver and Kramer seek to dig a little deeper, they realise that the hostages themselves, as well as the entire situation at the law firm, seems a tad off kilter. Working as best they can under strict deadlines, these two discover an errant thread that might unravel everything, or lead them nowhere. Well-paced and full of excitement, A.A. Chaudhuri knows how to pen a great thriller. Recommended to those who love British police procedurals that hold little back, as well as the reader who likes to see a case from both sides of the coin.
I was so very impressed with Chaudhuri’s debut novel that I kept my eyes peeled for this second piece, sure that it would pack just as much punch. I was not wrong, as some of the returning characters create a strong narrative and help shape what turns out to be quite the unique set of facts. Maddy Kramer is back as a legal associate, having taken some time off from her last firm and just getting herself situated amongst a new set of names and faces. It would seem she cannot shake the cloud of trouble that follows her, but she is just as willing to be in the middle of any adventure, as long as DCI Carver is there for the ride. Balancing her sleuthing abilities with a new spark romance, Maddy is able to find new and interesting aspects to the overall story that helps shed some light onto what is going on. DCI Jake Carver does well as he investigates, but remains baffled about the hostages and the rape angle. He won’t let that stand in his way, but is fighting his internal demons about this new connection he and Maddy Kramer seem to possess. Together, they are able to dig a little deeper and reveal truths that some might have wanted hidden for as long as possible. Others make their presence known on the page and help to shape this story, which is almost two in one. The hostage taking and the motives of those in charge offer one line of inquiry, but this rape allegation from decades before does not dissipate and might be an especially important part to the larger abduction. Chaudhuri offers readers some great plot lines while pushing a strong narrative and unique characters. Seeing the story from both angles—that of the investigation and the hostages—helps to create a full-circle experience and allows the reader to discover just what is going on at all times. While the romance between Kramer and Carver was to be expected, it is not overdone and does not distract from the overall experience. I would gladly read more novels with these two at the helm and can only hope that A. A. Chaudhuri has something in mind for the coming months, with fans eager to learn more.
Kudos, Madam Chaudhuri, for another winner. I can only hope that others are an enamoured with the novel as I find myself being.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, A.A. Chaudhuri, and Endeavour Media for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Returning with a thrilling follow-up to her explosive debut novel, A.A. Chaudhuri takes readers back into a world where the criminal element are highly deceptive and calculating at the same time. When a group of masked men storm into a London law firm, they choose a handful of hostages, including one partner, before disappearing. Amongst those huddled under the tables is Maddy Kramer, still trying to come to grips with crimes committed at her last law firm. DCI Jake Carver arrives to take control of the situation and begins his investigation, which includes who these men might have been and why the hostages were chosen. When the hostage takers reach out to Nigel Davenport, one of the firm’s senior partners, he learns that he must pay the ante or face ruin. A timetable is offered and Davenport is eager to do what he can, fearing his secrets will be revealed to the world. No one seems the wiser, as deadlines arrive and demands are met. When the hostages are released, one would assume that this is the end of it, but Carver and Kramer have other plans, looking into a rape allegation against Nigel Davenport, back from his days at Cambridge. Why would the hostage takers want this old crime brought to the surface and how deep does the devastation run? As Carver and Kramer seek to dig a little deeper, they realise that the hostages themselves, as well as the entire situation at the law firm, seems a tad off kilter. Working as best they can under strict deadlines, these two discover an errant thread that might unravel everything, or lead them nowhere. Well-paced and full of excitement, A.A. Chaudhuri knows how to pen a great thriller. Recommended to those who love British police procedurals that hold little back, as well as the reader who likes to see a case from both sides of the coin.
I was so very impressed with Chaudhuri’s debut novel that I kept my eyes peeled for this second piece, sure that it would pack just as much punch. I was not wrong, as some of the returning characters create a strong narrative and help shape what turns out to be quite the unique set of facts. Maddy Kramer is back as a legal associate, having taken some time off from her last firm and just getting herself situated amongst a new set of names and faces. It would seem she cannot shake the cloud of trouble that follows her, but she is just as willing to be in the middle of any adventure, as long as DCI Carver is there for the ride. Balancing her sleuthing abilities with a new spark romance, Maddy is able to find new and interesting aspects to the overall story that helps shed some light onto what is going on. DCI Jake Carver does well as he investigates, but remains baffled about the hostages and the rape angle. He won’t let that stand in his way, but is fighting his internal demons about this new connection he and Maddy Kramer seem to possess. Together, they are able to dig a little deeper and reveal truths that some might have wanted hidden for as long as possible. Others make their presence known on the page and help to shape this story, which is almost two in one. The hostage taking and the motives of those in charge offer one line of inquiry, but this rape allegation from decades before does not dissipate and might be an especially important part to the larger abduction. Chaudhuri offers readers some great plot lines while pushing a strong narrative and unique characters. Seeing the story from both angles—that of the investigation and the hostages—helps to create a full-circle experience and allows the reader to discover just what is going on at all times. While the romance between Kramer and Carver was to be expected, it is not overdone and does not distract from the overall experience. I would gladly read more novels with these two at the helm and can only hope that A. A. Chaudhuri has something in mind for the coming months, with fans eager to learn more.
Kudos, Madam Chaudhuri, for another winner. I can only hope that others are an enamoured with the novel as I find myself being.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
December 11, 2019
A.A. Chaudhuri is back again with her newest novel, The Abduction, featuring one of my favorite heroines, Maddy Kramer and the to-die-for and hunky hero, DCI Jake Carver. We first met Maddy and Jake in Chauduri’s debut novel, The Scribe, which is an intense thriller with many twists and turns sure to leave you up late at night. It also seems that Chaudri is intent on never letting me get any sleep because The Abduction lives up to everything that I loved reading in the first book.
Maddy is just getting back to normal and finally in a good place at a new firm where she has been working for the past two years, but it seems trouble seems to find her in the least likely of places. When armed, masked men storm through the firm and take two hostages, Maddy just can’t believe her string of bad luck has reared its ugly head again. But, what at first seems like a simple kidnapping (simple kidnapping..is there really such a thing?), things take a turn for the worse when a crime from over thirty years ago comes into play. Will Maddy and Jake figure out what the heck is going on or will more people get her during the course of their discovery?
I really have to say, I just LOVE A.A. Chaudhuri’s writing style and while The abduction is quite different from her first novel, The Scribe, I found it to be just as intense and remarkable. Chaudhuri has such a way of bringing her readers into the story and making it come alive. Although we know pretty straight on who is behind everything we don’t fully get the entire story and Chaudhuri has some aces up her sleeve and then hits you with them when you least expect it. Quite a few times I was left speechless, which is always a good thing when I am reading a new story. I also love that we get the chance to get inside the head of the kidnappers and learn their story and why they are doing the things that they do. It was really surprising to see the changes they go through throughout the progress of the story.
I really enjoyed Maddy and Carver in The Scribe and I was so excited to continue on with their story and see if there would be any more sparks between the two of them and there were! Yay! Chaudhuri really takes her time and builds up her characterization of Maddy and Carver making them relatable and lovable all at the same time. I also really appreciate the fact that the romance does not overshadow the story and plot. I am really hoping and praying we get to see more of Maddy and Carver in future novels as well as they make a strong couple and an even stronger team investigating crimes.
The Abduction is a riveting and twisting plot driven mystery that will keep you up late at night reading until the very end. Simply outstanding! Another great read and one I can highly recommend!
Maddy is just getting back to normal and finally in a good place at a new firm where she has been working for the past two years, but it seems trouble seems to find her in the least likely of places. When armed, masked men storm through the firm and take two hostages, Maddy just can’t believe her string of bad luck has reared its ugly head again. But, what at first seems like a simple kidnapping (simple kidnapping..is there really such a thing?), things take a turn for the worse when a crime from over thirty years ago comes into play. Will Maddy and Jake figure out what the heck is going on or will more people get her during the course of their discovery?
I really have to say, I just LOVE A.A. Chaudhuri’s writing style and while The abduction is quite different from her first novel, The Scribe, I found it to be just as intense and remarkable. Chaudhuri has such a way of bringing her readers into the story and making it come alive. Although we know pretty straight on who is behind everything we don’t fully get the entire story and Chaudhuri has some aces up her sleeve and then hits you with them when you least expect it. Quite a few times I was left speechless, which is always a good thing when I am reading a new story. I also love that we get the chance to get inside the head of the kidnappers and learn their story and why they are doing the things that they do. It was really surprising to see the changes they go through throughout the progress of the story.
I really enjoyed Maddy and Carver in The Scribe and I was so excited to continue on with their story and see if there would be any more sparks between the two of them and there were! Yay! Chaudhuri really takes her time and builds up her characterization of Maddy and Carver making them relatable and lovable all at the same time. I also really appreciate the fact that the romance does not overshadow the story and plot. I am really hoping and praying we get to see more of Maddy and Carver in future novels as well as they make a strong couple and an even stronger team investigating crimes.
The Abduction is a riveting and twisting plot driven mystery that will keep you up late at night reading until the very end. Simply outstanding! Another great read and one I can highly recommend!
June 10, 2021
I loved A.A. Chaudhuri’s THE SCRIBE, so, when I finished reading that book, I was delighted to know that there was a second novel in the series waiting for me. I managed to hold off a few months before diving in. THE ABDUCTION took me right back into the world of lawyer Maddy Kramer and DCI Jake Carver, a world of the law and those who break it.
A number of Maddy’s colleagues are abducted from her new firm’s office during a presentation. The kidnappers’ demands open a can of worms, making the police, and amateur sleuth Maddy, probe the backgrounds of those involved, with surprising results.
It was great to be back with Kramer and Carver. THE ABDUCTION is a worthy successor to THE SCRIBE – smart, twisty and fun, with an intriguing scenario and a plot that keeps moving forward. The characters are well drawn and we know that sparks will fly when Kramer and Carver are around one another! Another great thriller from AA Chaudhuri.
A number of Maddy’s colleagues are abducted from her new firm’s office during a presentation. The kidnappers’ demands open a can of worms, making the police, and amateur sleuth Maddy, probe the backgrounds of those involved, with surprising results.
It was great to be back with Kramer and Carver. THE ABDUCTION is a worthy successor to THE SCRIBE – smart, twisty and fun, with an intriguing scenario and a plot that keeps moving forward. The characters are well drawn and we know that sparks will fly when Kramer and Carver are around one another! Another great thriller from AA Chaudhuri.
April 6, 2021
Another brilliant book by AA Chaudhuri. Following on from the excellent prequel, The Scribe, The Abduction gets straight into the action and doesn’t let up. I loved how the plot built as though the characters were pushing the tension uphill before letting it go, only for everything to spiral out of control. The descriptive writing made for an immersive read and the shocking turns of events came as a surprise, but in truth, that is what I have come to expect from Chaudhuri. Without revealing any spoilers I was glad to read that a couple of the characters shared some happiness, whilst others got their deserved comeuppance (some of them boiled my blood - but that is down to how they were written, and brilliantly so). Up there with my favorite legal thrillers, and certainly one of the best of the year for me.
November 18, 2020
Superb - from start to finish
After reading The Scribe, the first book in this series, I was looking forward to AA Chaudhuri's next book featuring Maddy Kramer and DCI Jake Carver. And I was not disappointed at all.
A fantastic story with a very clever plot, that moves with pace and momentum, building to a great conclusion. But the sign of a good book is how involved you become in the storyline and how you empathise or dislike, understand the characters. The characters are all superbly depicted. You can visualise them, as well as imagining every scene, situation and interchange.
If you a fan of well written thrillers, look no further that A.A. Chaudhuri. Highly recommended. One of my favourite books of 2020.
After reading The Scribe, the first book in this series, I was looking forward to AA Chaudhuri's next book featuring Maddy Kramer and DCI Jake Carver. And I was not disappointed at all.
A fantastic story with a very clever plot, that moves with pace and momentum, building to a great conclusion. But the sign of a good book is how involved you become in the storyline and how you empathise or dislike, understand the characters. The characters are all superbly depicted. You can visualise them, as well as imagining every scene, situation and interchange.
If you a fan of well written thrillers, look no further that A.A. Chaudhuri. Highly recommended. One of my favourite books of 2020.
August 1, 2022
Kramer and Carver are back…
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
A.A. Chaudhuri has done it again, book two of the Kramer and Carver books is just as good as book one. This took me one day to read, and I loved every page. There were a lot of great characters in the story. I, once again, thought I had the answer early on and, although partly right, I was still blown away by the ending. This book is the closest to a Agatha Christie book I have seen.
I am now a firm lover of A.A. Chaudhuri’s work, I hope there will be a book three of Maddie and Jake soon.
Now on to «The Loyal Friend»
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
A.A. Chaudhuri has done it again, book two of the Kramer and Carver books is just as good as book one. This took me one day to read, and I loved every page. There were a lot of great characters in the story. I, once again, thought I had the answer early on and, although partly right, I was still blown away by the ending. This book is the closest to a Agatha Christie book I have seen.
I am now a firm lover of A.A. Chaudhuri’s work, I hope there will be a book three of Maddie and Jake soon.
Now on to «The Loyal Friend»
March 8, 2021
I read The Abduction last year, I adored it. It was my first 5 star read of the year - it's still a five star book for me, but with the help of David Thorpe the narrator the flawless storyline has been brought into a whole new dimension.
The Abduction is tension filled thriller, one that has an injected air of psychological mystery and incorporated societal themes which are powerful, relevant and hard-hitting. A.A. Chaudhuri has managed to intertwine the characters in an interconnected storyline with a perfect. With an edge of seat pace and characterisations with strong foundations, you'll find yourself cheering for some, while sneering at others. With a nod to the misogynistic, swarm like behaviour and the Old Boys type network, one's with men that have wormed their way into power, taking what they feel they have a right to with no remorse.
Our protagonistic duo Jake Carver and Maddie Kramer are reunited again after two years. The chemistry between them fizzes as we see each one of them begin to drop down their personal walls. The balance between this duo, their strive for justice and values are second to none. The way their personalities and skills in the field compliment one another shows that A. A. Chaudhuri has taken the time to.understand the psychology of her main characters, their needs, personalities and goals.
I LOVED reliving The Abduction, I found it clever how A.A. Chaudhuri included so many dark, relevant themes into the plotline, including assault, misogynistic power and corruption. I can't say too much but she tackles these themes with sensitivity, without taking the shock value away from the novel itself.
David and Alex's entwined talents have created an audiobook that you can't help but relax into. David's voice has brought the characters to life and I have found myself falling in love further with this book. Brilliant!
Previous review:
I absolutely loved The Scribe, it was one of the few most heart racing thrillers that I read for a while, then in waltzed The Abduction and blew The Scribe so far out of the park! For me, AA has created a full on homerun of a thriller that had me gripping the book tightly, which saved my already bitten to low nails and left my heart with palpitations - the perfect state a thriller addict hopes to be left in when reading and finishing a highly anticipated read. The Abduction didn't disappoint and as you may have already been able to tell, it got all my stars and a well deserved place in my bookish heart.
The characterisation, of the good and the bad guys, are just perfectly crafted - they have a kaleidoscope of personality traits that will have you swoon, pity them, as well as want to give them a good slap in the mouth (but violence doesn't solve anything kids, and they aren't real so I became the reader who shouted at THOSE characters!). Every single person that we meet amongst the pages of The Abduction are perfectly crafted in place, and given roles, it's a literary interpretation of a very well thought out game of chess - and you, the reader just don't know how it's going to play out. That is exactly like this book, a well crafted, superbly executed thriller.
Can we just talk about one of my favourite crime fighting duos? Of course it's savvy lawyer Maddy Kramer and the sultry type DCI Carver, 2.5 years have lapsed in the book world since The Scribe and the professional chemistry is still very much there! They compliment one another like your favourite food pairing - Kramer is intelligent, delicate in her approach and strongly independent, whereas Carver is intelligent also, but more of a hardened and complex character. Together, they make the best team and even after only just finishing the second installment of the series, I'm already on tenderhooks waiting for book 3.
We all know that there's different range of thrillers out there, from the subtly creeping up on you kind, to the ones that start almost immediately and have your heart galloping from the get go - for me The Abduction was the latter. There was no 'small talk', no unnecessary building of the storyline, it dived straight in to the adrenaline depths and it absolutely worked, my heart raced, my brain was on overdrive and I was gripped from chapter one. Not only did the threads of the storyline begun to unravel in such thrilling harmony, but the who unfolding was intense, tension filled and paced brilliantly. The book reads effortlessly and develops naturally, with snippets of the past that ties the whole thing together with a gaspingly great big bow.
Every single chapter of The Abduction enthralled me, I loved it (hence the full 5 stars) and now, if you don't mind I shall wait here (im)patiently as I wait for the third book of the series. I really can't wait to see what AA Chaudhuri has up her sleeve for the next installment
The Abduction is tension filled thriller, one that has an injected air of psychological mystery and incorporated societal themes which are powerful, relevant and hard-hitting. A.A. Chaudhuri has managed to intertwine the characters in an interconnected storyline with a perfect. With an edge of seat pace and characterisations with strong foundations, you'll find yourself cheering for some, while sneering at others. With a nod to the misogynistic, swarm like behaviour and the Old Boys type network, one's with men that have wormed their way into power, taking what they feel they have a right to with no remorse.
Our protagonistic duo Jake Carver and Maddie Kramer are reunited again after two years. The chemistry between them fizzes as we see each one of them begin to drop down their personal walls. The balance between this duo, their strive for justice and values are second to none. The way their personalities and skills in the field compliment one another shows that A. A. Chaudhuri has taken the time to.understand the psychology of her main characters, their needs, personalities and goals.
I LOVED reliving The Abduction, I found it clever how A.A. Chaudhuri included so many dark, relevant themes into the plotline, including assault, misogynistic power and corruption. I can't say too much but she tackles these themes with sensitivity, without taking the shock value away from the novel itself.
David and Alex's entwined talents have created an audiobook that you can't help but relax into. David's voice has brought the characters to life and I have found myself falling in love further with this book. Brilliant!
Previous review:
I absolutely loved The Scribe, it was one of the few most heart racing thrillers that I read for a while, then in waltzed The Abduction and blew The Scribe so far out of the park! For me, AA has created a full on homerun of a thriller that had me gripping the book tightly, which saved my already bitten to low nails and left my heart with palpitations - the perfect state a thriller addict hopes to be left in when reading and finishing a highly anticipated read. The Abduction didn't disappoint and as you may have already been able to tell, it got all my stars and a well deserved place in my bookish heart.
The characterisation, of the good and the bad guys, are just perfectly crafted - they have a kaleidoscope of personality traits that will have you swoon, pity them, as well as want to give them a good slap in the mouth (but violence doesn't solve anything kids, and they aren't real so I became the reader who shouted at THOSE characters!). Every single person that we meet amongst the pages of The Abduction are perfectly crafted in place, and given roles, it's a literary interpretation of a very well thought out game of chess - and you, the reader just don't know how it's going to play out. That is exactly like this book, a well crafted, superbly executed thriller.
Can we just talk about one of my favourite crime fighting duos? Of course it's savvy lawyer Maddy Kramer and the sultry type DCI Carver, 2.5 years have lapsed in the book world since The Scribe and the professional chemistry is still very much there! They compliment one another like your favourite food pairing - Kramer is intelligent, delicate in her approach and strongly independent, whereas Carver is intelligent also, but more of a hardened and complex character. Together, they make the best team and even after only just finishing the second installment of the series, I'm already on tenderhooks waiting for book 3.
We all know that there's different range of thrillers out there, from the subtly creeping up on you kind, to the ones that start almost immediately and have your heart galloping from the get go - for me The Abduction was the latter. There was no 'small talk', no unnecessary building of the storyline, it dived straight in to the adrenaline depths and it absolutely worked, my heart raced, my brain was on overdrive and I was gripped from chapter one. Not only did the threads of the storyline begun to unravel in such thrilling harmony, but the who unfolding was intense, tension filled and paced brilliantly. The book reads effortlessly and develops naturally, with snippets of the past that ties the whole thing together with a gaspingly great big bow.
Every single chapter of The Abduction enthralled me, I loved it (hence the full 5 stars) and now, if you don't mind I shall wait here (im)patiently as I wait for the third book of the series. I really can't wait to see what AA Chaudhuri has up her sleeve for the next installment
March 1, 2021
I cannot tell you how much I was looking forward to meeting up with Maddy Kramer and DCI Carver once again in their second crime thriller, The Abduction, after thoroughly enjoying their first gripping crime story, The Scribe.
Lawyer, Maddy Kramer is finally back on an even keel after her traumatic experiences in The Scribe and is working for another top City legal firm, where she has been concentrating on getting ahead in her career. She has neither seen, nor heard from, DCI Carver since the Scribe case was closed, but she often thinks about him, and the chemistry that existed between them.
But Maddy is not destined for the quiet life just yet, as masked raiders burst into a boring lunchtime meeting at her new firm and abduct a young trainee and one of the partners. Events are further complicated when it appears that two more of the firm's young trainees have also been abducted... and the senior partner has been sent an incriminating video and some rather personal demands in terms of the ransom required.
Maddy is set reeling by this turn of events, but she is also more than a little interested in finding out what is going on here. And then, who should walk back into her life once more? Well, DCI Carver, of course.... and the attraction between them is as strong as ever.
Kramer and Carver are back together, and along with Carver's new team and the ever faithful Drake, this time they are after a gang of kidnappers who appear to be on rather an unusual crusade. Can they get to the bottom of this twisty case? Can Kramer and Carver ignore the attraction that lies between them? That's for me to know, and you to find out - although I will say that some interesting things happen between Kramer and Carver, which made me very happy indeed, and I absolutely loved the feisty new team members.
A.A. Chaudhuri sets out quite a different crime adventure for Kramer and Carver this time around, but it is every bit as engaging and twisty as their first, and I was very pleased to hear the dulcet tones of David Thorpe once again as the narrator, because he is so good at bringing all the characters alive - not an easy task when there is such an air of romantic suspense between two of them, which could easily come off as cringey, but instead you can positively feel the passionate sparks fly.
From the outset, there is something a bit off about the nature of the kidnapping and the motives of the abductors, and this is what makes The Abduction such a delight - for our villains are not your normal gangland thugs out for a bit of filthy lucre, and the best of intentions lie at the heart of their carefully plotted scheme. Of course, as the old adage goes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and things do not go quite as smoothly as they were hoping with Kramer and Carver on their tail.
One of the things I most enjoy about A.A. Chaudhuri's books is that she likes to play with a few nice little mind games, carefully leading you along with enticing little titbits that have you thinking you know exactly what is going on, when the truth is actually far more complex. Although the hints and clues are there to follow, there are always a few delectable surprises that blindside you.
At the heart of this thrilling tale, there are some very thought provoking themes involving sexual assault and the legacy of unresolved trauma that will pull you in more than one direction. This gave the whole story an intriguing depth and complexity, and sometimes had me questioning quite how I wanted the story to unfurl. Sins of the past, guilt by association, and doing the right thing weigh heavily on many of the characters in this book, and the way things play out will have you asking some searching questions about whether it is ever right to take matters into your own hands in the pursuit of justice, however admirable your objective.
Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive... but not too tangled it seems for our perfect partnership of Kramer and Carver! I adored everything about this one - the relationships, the nicely crafted plot, the revelations, the moral dilemmas... and I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
Lawyer, Maddy Kramer is finally back on an even keel after her traumatic experiences in The Scribe and is working for another top City legal firm, where she has been concentrating on getting ahead in her career. She has neither seen, nor heard from, DCI Carver since the Scribe case was closed, but she often thinks about him, and the chemistry that existed between them.
But Maddy is not destined for the quiet life just yet, as masked raiders burst into a boring lunchtime meeting at her new firm and abduct a young trainee and one of the partners. Events are further complicated when it appears that two more of the firm's young trainees have also been abducted... and the senior partner has been sent an incriminating video and some rather personal demands in terms of the ransom required.
Maddy is set reeling by this turn of events, but she is also more than a little interested in finding out what is going on here. And then, who should walk back into her life once more? Well, DCI Carver, of course.... and the attraction between them is as strong as ever.
Kramer and Carver are back together, and along with Carver's new team and the ever faithful Drake, this time they are after a gang of kidnappers who appear to be on rather an unusual crusade. Can they get to the bottom of this twisty case? Can Kramer and Carver ignore the attraction that lies between them? That's for me to know, and you to find out - although I will say that some interesting things happen between Kramer and Carver, which made me very happy indeed, and I absolutely loved the feisty new team members.
A.A. Chaudhuri sets out quite a different crime adventure for Kramer and Carver this time around, but it is every bit as engaging and twisty as their first, and I was very pleased to hear the dulcet tones of David Thorpe once again as the narrator, because he is so good at bringing all the characters alive - not an easy task when there is such an air of romantic suspense between two of them, which could easily come off as cringey, but instead you can positively feel the passionate sparks fly.
From the outset, there is something a bit off about the nature of the kidnapping and the motives of the abductors, and this is what makes The Abduction such a delight - for our villains are not your normal gangland thugs out for a bit of filthy lucre, and the best of intentions lie at the heart of their carefully plotted scheme. Of course, as the old adage goes, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and things do not go quite as smoothly as they were hoping with Kramer and Carver on their tail.
One of the things I most enjoy about A.A. Chaudhuri's books is that she likes to play with a few nice little mind games, carefully leading you along with enticing little titbits that have you thinking you know exactly what is going on, when the truth is actually far more complex. Although the hints and clues are there to follow, there are always a few delectable surprises that blindside you.
At the heart of this thrilling tale, there are some very thought provoking themes involving sexual assault and the legacy of unresolved trauma that will pull you in more than one direction. This gave the whole story an intriguing depth and complexity, and sometimes had me questioning quite how I wanted the story to unfurl. Sins of the past, guilt by association, and doing the right thing weigh heavily on many of the characters in this book, and the way things play out will have you asking some searching questions about whether it is ever right to take matters into your own hands in the pursuit of justice, however admirable your objective.
Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive... but not too tangled it seems for our perfect partnership of Kramer and Carver! I adored everything about this one - the relationships, the nicely crafted plot, the revelations, the moral dilemmas... and I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
March 26, 2021
I listened to The Abduction, the second book in the Kramer & Carver series, straight after I'd listened to the first book, The Scribe. Although you could listen to The Abduction as a standalone, it does contain plot spoilers from The Scribe so I would advise that you listen to them in order. They are both brilliant, so you will definitely want to listen to them both.
To try to put events from The Scribe behind her, Maddy Kramer has got a new job as an associate in a different London law firm. It seems like her bad luck has followed her when three trainees and a partner are kidnapped in broad daylight and held to ransom. Every cloud has a silver lining though and it brings DCI Carver back into her life.
Kramer and Carver are such a great pairing; Carver is a natural investigator and Maddy is so nosy but she's as sharp as a tack. I loved seeing how the characters developed and hearing their voices rather than reading about them really made me feel as if I know them. There was definite chemistry between them last time but, with a seventeen year age gap, neither of them acted upon it. Now that they are back in touch, we may finally get an answer to the question of will they/won't they?
I was completely intrigued and gripped by the thrilling and razor-sharp plot. Nothing is as it seems and it contains more backstabbing and deception than an entire season of Dynasty. Secrets and lies always make for a good story so I was on the edge of my (bicycle) seat and couldn't listen fast enough. I listen to audiobooks while exercising and the fast pacing sure did make me pedal faster!
Once again, David Thorpe's narration is outstanding. The narration is so good that the characters don't really need to be announced as I could recognise them by their voices. David 'multi-voiced' Thorpe really brings not only the characters but the whole book to life and I'm not ashamed to admit that I found myself actually speaking out loud to the characters on more than one occasion.
The partnering of A. A. Chaudhuri's compelling writing and David Thorpe's expressive narration is as perfect as the Kramer and Carver pairing in the book. Outstanding from beginning to end, The Abduction is thrilling, gripping and filled with deception. I absolutely loved it and unreservedly recommend it. 5 huge stars!
I chose to listen to an audiobook ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
To try to put events from The Scribe behind her, Maddy Kramer has got a new job as an associate in a different London law firm. It seems like her bad luck has followed her when three trainees and a partner are kidnapped in broad daylight and held to ransom. Every cloud has a silver lining though and it brings DCI Carver back into her life.
Kramer and Carver are such a great pairing; Carver is a natural investigator and Maddy is so nosy but she's as sharp as a tack. I loved seeing how the characters developed and hearing their voices rather than reading about them really made me feel as if I know them. There was definite chemistry between them last time but, with a seventeen year age gap, neither of them acted upon it. Now that they are back in touch, we may finally get an answer to the question of will they/won't they?
I was completely intrigued and gripped by the thrilling and razor-sharp plot. Nothing is as it seems and it contains more backstabbing and deception than an entire season of Dynasty. Secrets and lies always make for a good story so I was on the edge of my (bicycle) seat and couldn't listen fast enough. I listen to audiobooks while exercising and the fast pacing sure did make me pedal faster!
Once again, David Thorpe's narration is outstanding. The narration is so good that the characters don't really need to be announced as I could recognise them by their voices. David 'multi-voiced' Thorpe really brings not only the characters but the whole book to life and I'm not ashamed to admit that I found myself actually speaking out loud to the characters on more than one occasion.
The partnering of A. A. Chaudhuri's compelling writing and David Thorpe's expressive narration is as perfect as the Kramer and Carver pairing in the book. Outstanding from beginning to end, The Abduction is thrilling, gripping and filled with deception. I absolutely loved it and unreservedly recommend it. 5 huge stars!
I chose to listen to an audiobook ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 7, 2021
The Abduction is the thrilling second installment in the Kramer & Carver series. I was delighted to be asked to review this book for an audiobook tour, something I've never done before.
The series follows lawyer Madeline Kramer and DCI Jake Carver. In this installment, the story opens with kidnappers storming the offices of Sullivan, Blake, Monroe, the top City law firm where Madeline now works, and abducting three trainees and a senior partner. As DCI Carver investigates, he discovers that the kidnappings are linked to dark, terrifying events thirty years ago and that this is a fight for justice both in the past and present.
I've not yet read the first book in this series but the author succinctly catches you up and never leaves you feeling out of the loop. The protagonists and supporting cast of characters are fascinating and richly drawn with compelling, intricate backstories that entwine them far deeper than we first imagine. The combination of the great writing and narration made it feel like they were in the room with you, transporting you into their world and the dark, twisted secrets of the staff at Sullivan, Blake, Monroe.
I liked Kramer and Carver and found them to be interesting and compelling protagonists. They were a great investigative team and I enjoyed the chemistry that sizzled between them. Though they tried to fight it, I was rooting for them to give in to how they felt for each other.
I enjoyed listening to this gripping, action-packed thriller. While it did take me a little while to warm to the narrator, I soon found myself hooked by the story and enjoying his riveting narration.
The Abduction is a multilayered, pacy and twisty story of decades old secrets, sex, lies, power, greed and vengeance that will have you on the edge of your seat. I will be reading the first book in this series and am looking forward to book three.
The series follows lawyer Madeline Kramer and DCI Jake Carver. In this installment, the story opens with kidnappers storming the offices of Sullivan, Blake, Monroe, the top City law firm where Madeline now works, and abducting three trainees and a senior partner. As DCI Carver investigates, he discovers that the kidnappings are linked to dark, terrifying events thirty years ago and that this is a fight for justice both in the past and present.
I've not yet read the first book in this series but the author succinctly catches you up and never leaves you feeling out of the loop. The protagonists and supporting cast of characters are fascinating and richly drawn with compelling, intricate backstories that entwine them far deeper than we first imagine. The combination of the great writing and narration made it feel like they were in the room with you, transporting you into their world and the dark, twisted secrets of the staff at Sullivan, Blake, Monroe.
I liked Kramer and Carver and found them to be interesting and compelling protagonists. They were a great investigative team and I enjoyed the chemistry that sizzled between them. Though they tried to fight it, I was rooting for them to give in to how they felt for each other.
I enjoyed listening to this gripping, action-packed thriller. While it did take me a little while to warm to the narrator, I soon found myself hooked by the story and enjoying his riveting narration.
The Abduction is a multilayered, pacy and twisty story of decades old secrets, sex, lies, power, greed and vengeance that will have you on the edge of your seat. I will be reading the first book in this series and am looking forward to book three.
May 11, 2020
Kramer and Carver are back…
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive thriller left my breathless a brilliantly written follow up to the brilliant The Scribe author A A Chaudhuri 2nd novel The Abduction is a masterpiece full of suspense twists and turns a shocking discovery about the kidnapping of four law firm colleagues was brilliant to discover the real motivation of the kidnapping blow me away brilliant characters a gripping story that took me on a journey of past dark secrets A A Chaudhuri nails with her 2nd thriller an outstanding novel that teaches as many things the team duo Kramer and Carver works perfectly I hope there's book 3 soon highly recommended 💥💥💥💥💥⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Madeline Kramer has finally got her life back on track at top City law firm Sullivan, Blake, Monroe. But when two armed, masked men burst into a conference room one lunchtime, kidnapping inept trainee, Charlotte Dempsey, and popular head of litigation, Richard Barker, Maddy’s life is plunged into disarray once more—particularly when charismatic DCI Jake Carver, who caught a heartless killer when they last met and with whom Maddy shared a mutual chemistry, is called to the scene.
Things become more complicated when a disturbing video reveals two more trainees, Matthew Gerard and Stephen Baines, have been taken. What initially appears as a random kidnapping for mercenary gain soon evolves into something far more complex, the horrifying events of thirty years ago motivating the abductors and having colossal implications for those in the present...
Against a backdrop of sleaze, sex, lies and murder in The Abduction, Maddy and Carver must work together to unravel the truth, and ensure that no crimes—past or present—are left unpunished.
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive thriller left my breathless a brilliantly written follow up to the brilliant The Scribe author A A Chaudhuri 2nd novel The Abduction is a masterpiece full of suspense twists and turns a shocking discovery about the kidnapping of four law firm colleagues was brilliant to discover the real motivation of the kidnapping blow me away brilliant characters a gripping story that took me on a journey of past dark secrets A A Chaudhuri nails with her 2nd thriller an outstanding novel that teaches as many things the team duo Kramer and Carver works perfectly I hope there's book 3 soon highly recommended 💥💥💥💥💥⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 15, 2020
After reading The Scribe earlier this year I was delighted to be invited to join the tour for The Abduction. I loved the brilliant combination and tension of Kramer and Carver in the previous book so I was pleased to see they were getting another outing in an equally thrilling new story.
A. A. Chaudhuri writes cleverly constructed and thought out criminal masterminds who are terrifyingly deceitful but often fit into everyday life naturally.
When a group of masked men infiltrate the law firm where Maddy Kramer works and take a number of selected hostages. DCI Carver takes control of the case and the sizzling sexual tensions between the two are still very evident. The race is on to figure out why those specific hostages were taken and what the kidnappers want.
The Abduction is a brilliant example of British crime thriller writing at its best. It has the aspects of a police procedural and crime thriller and is crammed full of action and clever plot writing keeping the reader guessing and speculating the whole time whilst weaving a well plotted and developed story line.
In addition to the intricate plot, the individual character development of Kramer and Carver continues as well as their developing relationship. This guarantees the reader a fully rounded experience. I’m really hoping there are more Kramer and Carver stories to come.
A. A. Chaudhuri writes cleverly constructed and thought out criminal masterminds who are terrifyingly deceitful but often fit into everyday life naturally.
When a group of masked men infiltrate the law firm where Maddy Kramer works and take a number of selected hostages. DCI Carver takes control of the case and the sizzling sexual tensions between the two are still very evident. The race is on to figure out why those specific hostages were taken and what the kidnappers want.
The Abduction is a brilliant example of British crime thriller writing at its best. It has the aspects of a police procedural and crime thriller and is crammed full of action and clever plot writing keeping the reader guessing and speculating the whole time whilst weaving a well plotted and developed story line.
In addition to the intricate plot, the individual character development of Kramer and Carver continues as well as their developing relationship. This guarantees the reader a fully rounded experience. I’m really hoping there are more Kramer and Carver stories to come.
December 17, 2019
The Abduction is the second book in the Kramer and Carver series and I recommend you read them in order. There are a few references to the previous investigation throughout this book.
When colleagues are abducted from the firm Maddy now works for, everybody is shocked and they are relieved that the most of the ransom demand is swiftly agreed to. But there is a reason for the abduction, a secret from university that some are determined will stay that way. They are unprepared though, for how determined the group of kidnappers are to have all of their demands met.
However, not everything is as it initially appears and the author does a good job of bringing all the threads together into a gripping storyline with a tale of revenge, guilt, trauma and some throughly obnoxious characters.
Kramer and Carver didn’t feature heavily, instead most of story is revealed by the other characters. Whilst there were a handful I had sympathy for, one in particular who shall remember nameless, the overwhelming feeling was how easy it was to manipulate others into doing what was wanted.
A clever novel that I hope isn’t a true reflection of those who work in law.
When colleagues are abducted from the firm Maddy now works for, everybody is shocked and they are relieved that the most of the ransom demand is swiftly agreed to. But there is a reason for the abduction, a secret from university that some are determined will stay that way. They are unprepared though, for how determined the group of kidnappers are to have all of their demands met.
However, not everything is as it initially appears and the author does a good job of bringing all the threads together into a gripping storyline with a tale of revenge, guilt, trauma and some throughly obnoxious characters.
Kramer and Carver didn’t feature heavily, instead most of story is revealed by the other characters. Whilst there were a handful I had sympathy for, one in particular who shall remember nameless, the overwhelming feeling was how easy it was to manipulate others into doing what was wanted.
A clever novel that I hope isn’t a true reflection of those who work in law.
February 6, 2020
A.A. Chaudhuri is definitely the new queen of legal thrillers.
Following on from her excellent debut, The Scribe, Kramer and Carver team up again to investigate the most audacious of kidnaps imaginable. But with anything from the pen of Chaudhuri, nothing is at it seems with endless possible avenues within which to send the reader scurrying down. But which one isn’t a dead end? You’ll have to read this gripping thriller to find out.
The plot is carnivorous beast which feeds on the flesh of twists and turns, and let me tell you that this predator is well-fed.
Even up to the very end I was kept guessing at the outcome of certain aspects of the story. The final twist will shock and surprise you, and when you turn the last page you feel a bitter-sweet feeling as there is no more. Until the next episode comes along in this wonderful series.
Kramer and Carver’s relationship builds as does their joint instinct when something doesn’t feel right. You learn to trust and respect their thoughts as you are drawn in to these well-developed characters.
A highly recommended read.
Move over Michael Connelly, A.A. Chaudhuri is in town.
Following on from her excellent debut, The Scribe, Kramer and Carver team up again to investigate the most audacious of kidnaps imaginable. But with anything from the pen of Chaudhuri, nothing is at it seems with endless possible avenues within which to send the reader scurrying down. But which one isn’t a dead end? You’ll have to read this gripping thriller to find out.
The plot is carnivorous beast which feeds on the flesh of twists and turns, and let me tell you that this predator is well-fed.
Even up to the very end I was kept guessing at the outcome of certain aspects of the story. The final twist will shock and surprise you, and when you turn the last page you feel a bitter-sweet feeling as there is no more. Until the next episode comes along in this wonderful series.
Kramer and Carver’s relationship builds as does their joint instinct when something doesn’t feel right. You learn to trust and respect their thoughts as you are drawn in to these well-developed characters.
A highly recommended read.
Move over Michael Connelly, A.A. Chaudhuri is in town.
March 30, 2021
The Abduction is the second book in A. A. Chaudhuri’s Kramer & Carver thriller series. I enjoyed the first book, The Scribe, and the second book did not disappoint. The novel starts with an abduction at Maddy Kramer’s law firm, which sets the novel up perfectly. Maddy once again teams up with DCI Jake Carver to investigate the abduction and they begin to unravel a web of deceit, betrayal and revenge. Chaudhuri’s usual trademark slick plot follows Kramer & Carver as they uncover dark secret upon dark secret. New twists at every turn keep the reader griped to the end. The developing relationship between Carver and Kramer is nicely played and makes a good contrast to their investigation. David Thorpe’s narration on the audiobook brings the novel alive, finding the right voice and tone for each character.
July 30, 2020
What can I say? This novel is a fast paced PI come police procedural novel featuring the duo detective Jake Carver and lawyer Maddie Kramer. When two lawyers from Maddie's law firm are abducted and a ransom set, Maddie and Carver are set on a thrilling investigation. But, of course all is not as it seems as lies, corruption and sex scandals abound as the complex investigation progresses ending with a wonderfully thrilling series of exposes that leave everyone reeling. The appeal of this novel is twofold. Firstly the burgeoning relationship between Jake and Maddie is fascinating, but I have to say, the complexity and detail of the plot really left me gasping. It's intricacy and excellent execution made for a twisty and compelling read. Five Stars from me!
June 10, 2021
I enjoyed The Scribe so much; I couldn't wait to read the next case for Maddy and Carver and see where it might lead them. The story is tightly plotted. Just when I thought I had worked something out, bam, I hadn't! The twists and turns kept on coming, making me read late into the night.
The writing is evocative and flows, and the cast of characters are well rounded. I found myself wanting to read this when I should have been doing other things! Well worth reading - and I can't wait to read the next novel by this author - which I have already pre-ordered!
The writing is evocative and flows, and the cast of characters are well rounded. I found myself wanting to read this when I should have been doing other things! Well worth reading - and I can't wait to read the next novel by this author - which I have already pre-ordered!
December 22, 2020
I read the first in this series, The Scribe, and loved it. This one I loved equally as well. I could have read this in one night but didn't want it to be over so soon so limited myself to 4 chapters a night. Carver and Maddy make such a good crime fighting duo.
The storyline was supurb as were all the characters. Some shocks at the end so be prepared.
If I have any complaint, it's I would like to see Drake more fleshed out and with a storyline. I need to know more about him.
I can't wait for the next book. I hope this is a long series. Pleaseeeeeee.
The storyline was supurb as were all the characters. Some shocks at the end so be prepared.
If I have any complaint, it's I would like to see Drake more fleshed out and with a storyline. I need to know more about him.
I can't wait for the next book. I hope this is a long series. Pleaseeeeeee.
February 15, 2021
Great psychological thriller! The narrative momentum propels you forward. The character development is really interesting - the 'how' and 'why' superceeding the 'when' and 'where' to great effect. I don't want to give away any spoilers....but I was certainly surprised by the twists and turns.
Thematically, the mother-child relationship is explored as is the way past trauma can impact the present. I'm definitely curious to hear what other readers think.
Thematically, the mother-child relationship is explored as is the way past trauma can impact the present. I'm definitely curious to hear what other readers think.
November 10, 2021
Another great read and a book I could not put down. Wonderful characters and a fast paced plot. I really hope that we see Kramer and Carver back in another story, they are a great pairing and looking forward to seeing what the future holds.
As for the author, that’s simple, I would certainly be reading A A Chaudhuri’s next book that is for you.
As for the author, that’s simple, I would certainly be reading A A Chaudhuri’s next book that is for you.
January 1, 2026
The Abduction is a fast-moving legal thriller that pulled me in quickly and kept the tension high throughout. From the opening kidnapping, the stakes are clear, and the story doesn't let up. I really like how the author balances the legal maneuvering with the personal pressure on Madeline Kramer, who feels more grounded and believable as the story unfolds.
The pacing is strong, with short chapters that make it easy to keep reading "just one more." The plot has enough twists to stay engaging without becoming confusing, and the courtroom elements feel well-researched. I also love how the danger felt real, both professionally and personally for the character involved.
This is a solid thriller and a well-constructed one. Fans of legal thriller/suspense who enjoy smart plotting and steady tension will find this a satisfying read. I'll definitely continue with the series.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The pacing is strong, with short chapters that make it easy to keep reading "just one more." The plot has enough twists to stay engaging without becoming confusing, and the courtroom elements feel well-researched. I also love how the danger felt real, both professionally and personally for the character involved.
This is a solid thriller and a well-constructed one. Fans of legal thriller/suspense who enjoy smart plotting and steady tension will find this a satisfying read. I'll definitely continue with the series.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
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