What do you think?
Rate this book
Not My Daughter
The new novel from bestselling author Suzy K Quinn is a twisty and compulsive psychological thriller that you won’t be able to put down.
***
My child is missing. And it’s not safe out there…
After sixteen years of protecting my daughter from the dark secret of her past, I wake one morning to find her room empty, rucksack gone.
Most runaways return within 72 hours, but I’m not so sure. I think my daughter has gone to find her real father – the man I fled from years ago.
No one knows better than me that beneath his charm lies a monster.
I escaped him once. But will she see him for what he really is?
After all, blood is thicker than water…
***
384 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2020
159 people are currently reading
1257 people want to read
About the author
Suzy K. Quinn
33 books932 followersDownload your Suzy K Quinn starter library at: www.suzykquinn.com
Suzy K Quinn writes romantic comedy / rom com books / cozy mystery and has sold over 1 million books worldwide. She is a bestseller in the UK, US and Germany and has plans for total world domination with more feel-good books (bestsellers, obviously) in the near future. Her books exist in the space between Jojo Moyes, Richard Osman and the Midnight Library.
Suzy lives in Wivenhoe, Essex, with her husband Demi and two daughters. She is a twin, an incompetent parent of two and now fully decaffeinated. Her twin sister, Cate Quinn, is also a bestseller author. When she's not writing, she is reading rom coms and cozy mysteries.
Suzy loves her readers and is ALWAYS happy to chat on social media - she's @suzykquinn on all the socials. You can also get a free book at her website.
Suzy K Quinn writes romantic comedy / rom com books / cozy mystery and has sold over 1 million books worldwide. She is a bestseller in the UK, US and Germany and has plans for total world domination with more feel-good books (bestsellers, obviously) in the near future. Her books exist in the space between Jojo Moyes, Richard Osman and the Midnight Library.
Suzy lives in Wivenhoe, Essex, with her husband Demi and two daughters. She is a twin, an incompetent parent of two and now fully decaffeinated. Her twin sister, Cate Quinn, is also a bestseller author. When she's not writing, she is reading rom coms and cozy mysteries.
Suzy loves her readers and is ALWAYS happy to chat on social media - she's @suzykquinn on all the socials. You can also get a free book at her website.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
June 30, 2022
ANOTHER VERY GOOD DEBUT BOOK!!
WHAT I LIKED?
• The starting chapter :- Its been quite a long time since I have read such an amazing start of the story!
The first chapter compelled you to read it to the end!
• Narration:- the constant flipping between past and present provided an insight to the story which it needed because the story line was pretty mediocre!
• Character development :- complexities of main characters are astounding . Characters were true to life and full of secrets of their own!
Michael's manipulation was kept throughout the book, Lorna desperation to keep daughter safe and of course Liberty search for truth!
• Happy/satisfactory ending
•Setting:- the whole uncomfortable atmosphere of Michael house was superbly presented!
Trigger warning:- physiological mental torture/physical abuse/ manipulation/underage sex/murder/domestic abuse.
This book is a true page turner. The author grips your attention from the first chapter and you will not be able to put it down till you know the answers!
You might be able to crack it but still you will be compelled to read it coz it's written beautifully and that's exactly what I loved about this book!
Recommended for people who wish to read physiological thriller for first time!
It will be a good start for them!
First by this author and I am sure this will not be the last!
WHAT I LIKED?
• The starting chapter :- Its been quite a long time since I have read such an amazing start of the story!
The first chapter compelled you to read it to the end!
• Narration:- the constant flipping between past and present provided an insight to the story which it needed because the story line was pretty mediocre!
• Character development :- complexities of main characters are astounding . Characters were true to life and full of secrets of their own!
Michael's manipulation was kept throughout the book, Lorna desperation to keep daughter safe and of course Liberty search for truth!
• Happy/satisfactory ending
•Setting:- the whole uncomfortable atmosphere of Michael house was superbly presented!
Trigger warning:- physiological mental torture/physical abuse/ manipulation/underage sex/murder/domestic abuse.
This book is a true page turner. The author grips your attention from the first chapter and you will not be able to put it down till you know the answers!
You might be able to crack it but still you will be compelled to read it coz it's written beautifully and that's exactly what I loved about this book!
Recommended for people who wish to read physiological thriller for first time!
It will be a good start for them!
First by this author and I am sure this will not be the last!
November 10, 2022
There was a lot I didn’t like with this book. For one thing the main character was very annoying. I know it’s easy to be manipulated, but every time something new and terrible happened with her, she seemed so surprised. EVERY TIME! Not to mention her extreme reactions 16 years later. The past was revealed agonizingly slowly, and when I felt so annoyed by Lorna that reading felt like torture. The hysterics were too much. There were so many small details that just didn’t make sense. Why, for example did Lorna’s daughter wait so long before looking for her father, and why didn’t she share what she discovered with her family? Why make them upset, when she easily could have included them in her plan? Another eye-rolling moment; Michael sends a cryptic message to Lorna through a book. Really?!? And she brings a big jacket with a knife inside. Did she really think he wouldn’t discover it? And what about her sister, who waited outside where Lorna was captured for months. Who would do that? And if they did, wouldn’t they at least try to contact you instead of just waiting? Or call the police if they were so worried?
And when everything is revealed, it is just too twisted and far-fetched. Michael also comes across as a very caricatured character, and the whole ‘ I have to win this chess game’ vibe made me dislike the book even more.
Another bummer, why reveal the twist in the name of the book?
I give two stars because I liked Liberty and her intellect.
And when everything is revealed, it is just too twisted and far-fetched. Michael also comes across as a very caricatured character, and the whole ‘ I have to win this chess game’ vibe made me dislike the book even more.
Another bummer, why reveal the twist in the name of the book?
I give two stars because I liked Liberty and her intellect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest
I am so happy to have the opportunity to be part of the blog tour for Not My Daughter by Suzy K. Quinn. Thank you to the team at HQ, for sending me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. Have a look at the Blog Tour Banner below and check out the other bloggers.
About The Author:
Suzy K Quinn is a British fiction author, and writes in three different genres: psychological thriller, comedy and romance. She was first published by Hachette in 2010 with her debut novel Glass Geishas (now Night Girls), then self-published a romance series, the Ivy Lessons, which became an international bestseller and a #1 Kindle romance bestseller in the US and UK.
After her second daughter was born in 2013, she self-published the Bad Mother’s Diary series, which also went on to become a #1 Kindle romantic comedy bestseller. Suzy K Quinn’s novels have been translated into 7 languages and her books have sold over ¾ million copies worldwide.
She lives in Wivenhoe, Essex, with her husband Demi and two daughters, and travels to Mexico every year to write and study Mayan story telling. Suzy loves her family, friends and readers, but when pushed to add more to the list, she also loves travelling, food and alcohol.
Synopsis:
Lorna has been trying to protect her daughter Liberty for sixteen years. There are dark secrets from her past about her father that Lorna wishes her daughter never finds out. Liberty’s father is a monster, and the best solution is to hide. Forever.
But Liberty has other plans. One day, Liberty decides to find her father, no matter the cost. And Lorna can’t protect her if she doesn’t know where she went…
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed Not My Daughter. It was a novel that kept me on my toes throughout the whole book and I was eager to know what happens in the end and who the true villain is.
We begin the story in one way, where we have an idea of who the bad person is, and how Lorna is the protector. But once we start reading more, this story becomes more twisted, and we don’t know who to trust anymore. This is something I see in books quite often, but it is not usually as well-written. Suzy did an amazing job writing this part, and making us switch sides as she wanted us to.
The ending was not predictable at all, although, it was a bit unrealistic. However, it really fit nicely with the whole story and I cannot be dissapointed.
It is interesting to see how the mother-daughter relationship develops. But more so, how a relationship forms when a daughter wants to get to know her father, no matter what. You meet this person that you share genes with, and you want them to like you. You want them to accept you, like nothing happened. We could see this wish in Liberty as she meets her father – the need to be accepted as a daughter.
I would recommend this book to everyone that loves mystery thrillers. It is a one of a kind, and a very well-written one too.
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest
I am so happy to have the opportunity to be part of the blog tour for Not My Daughter by Suzy K. Quinn. Thank you to the team at HQ, for sending me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. Have a look at the Blog Tour Banner below and check out the other bloggers.
About The Author:
Suzy K Quinn is a British fiction author, and writes in three different genres: psychological thriller, comedy and romance. She was first published by Hachette in 2010 with her debut novel Glass Geishas (now Night Girls), then self-published a romance series, the Ivy Lessons, which became an international bestseller and a #1 Kindle romance bestseller in the US and UK.
After her second daughter was born in 2013, she self-published the Bad Mother’s Diary series, which also went on to become a #1 Kindle romantic comedy bestseller. Suzy K Quinn’s novels have been translated into 7 languages and her books have sold over ¾ million copies worldwide.
She lives in Wivenhoe, Essex, with her husband Demi and two daughters, and travels to Mexico every year to write and study Mayan story telling. Suzy loves her family, friends and readers, but when pushed to add more to the list, she also loves travelling, food and alcohol.
Synopsis:
Lorna has been trying to protect her daughter Liberty for sixteen years. There are dark secrets from her past about her father that Lorna wishes her daughter never finds out. Liberty’s father is a monster, and the best solution is to hide. Forever.
But Liberty has other plans. One day, Liberty decides to find her father, no matter the cost. And Lorna can’t protect her if she doesn’t know where she went…
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed Not My Daughter. It was a novel that kept me on my toes throughout the whole book and I was eager to know what happens in the end and who the true villain is.
We begin the story in one way, where we have an idea of who the bad person is, and how Lorna is the protector. But once we start reading more, this story becomes more twisted, and we don’t know who to trust anymore. This is something I see in books quite often, but it is not usually as well-written. Suzy did an amazing job writing this part, and making us switch sides as she wanted us to.
The ending was not predictable at all, although, it was a bit unrealistic. However, it really fit nicely with the whole story and I cannot be dissapointed.
It is interesting to see how the mother-daughter relationship develops. But more so, how a relationship forms when a daughter wants to get to know her father, no matter what. You meet this person that you share genes with, and you want them to like you. You want them to accept you, like nothing happened. We could see this wish in Liberty as she meets her father – the need to be accepted as a daughter.
I would recommend this book to everyone that loves mystery thrillers. It is a one of a kind, and a very well-written one too.
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest
July 9, 2020
Sixteen year old Liberty is desperate to know who her father is, her mother Lorna has always shielded her away from him explaining that his evil and not to be trusted.
Imagine Libertys shock when she discovers that her dad is actually successful rockstar Michael Reyji Ray.
Lorna is frantic once she realises that Liberty has found out and is on her way to find him.
This simple thriller of past lies resurfacing is easy to get drawn into with interesting standout characters.
Understandably Liberty is at the age where she wants to know her father is well captured during her sections of the novel.
While Lorna angst feels unhinged, especially as she trys to report her daughter's trip to the police, it was always inevitable that Libery would become curious.
Plus Michael appears grateful to have finally meet his daughter, why is Lorna so adamant for them not to meet?
The story also tales of Lorna's time as a teenager whilst accompanying Michael on tour, slowly seeing the despicable way he treats the youngster for his own pleasure.
Theres a few nice twists and I liked the ambiguity of not quite sure who to trust during large sections of the book.
A great memorable conclusion, I enjoyed this more than Don’t Tell Teacher.
Imagine Libertys shock when she discovers that her dad is actually successful rockstar Michael Reyji Ray.
Lorna is frantic once she realises that Liberty has found out and is on her way to find him.
This simple thriller of past lies resurfacing is easy to get drawn into with interesting standout characters.
Understandably Liberty is at the age where she wants to know her father is well captured during her sections of the novel.
While Lorna angst feels unhinged, especially as she trys to report her daughter's trip to the police, it was always inevitable that Libery would become curious.
Plus Michael appears grateful to have finally meet his daughter, why is Lorna so adamant for them not to meet?
The story also tales of Lorna's time as a teenager whilst accompanying Michael on tour, slowly seeing the despicable way he treats the youngster for his own pleasure.
Theres a few nice twists and I liked the ambiguity of not quite sure who to trust during large sections of the book.
A great memorable conclusion, I enjoyed this more than Don’t Tell Teacher.
May 27, 2020
Lorna refuses to tell her daughter who her father is. But Liberty finds out whomhe is and goes to see him. Lorna is frantic with worry and fear for her daughter.
This story flips between the past and the present day, it covers abuse and domestic violence. It's also a bit predictable in places. There's a few twists and the characters are true to life. Thenoace is fast and it's full of suspense. The ending is satisfactory. This is my first book by the author and it wont be my last.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Suzy K Quinn for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This story flips between the past and the present day, it covers abuse and domestic violence. It's also a bit predictable in places. There's a few twists and the characters are true to life. Thenoace is fast and it's full of suspense. The ending is satisfactory. This is my first book by the author and it wont be my last.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HQ and the author Suzy K Quinn for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2021
I loved this book, it had a very unique plot. I can't wait to read more from this author
July 1, 2020
This was an interesting domestic thriller but unfortunately it felt a bit average to me. Definitely not the best domestic thriller I've ever read
I did like the writing style. I thought it was really easy to read and engaging. I flew through it quite quickly when I sat down and read it.
However, there was nothing in the story that made me want to pick it up and read it.
The plot was kinda average. It felt more of a domestic drama for most of the book until the end where it read more like a thriller
I wasn't too keen on the ending. It felt a bit silly and far fetched. It wrapped up incredibly quickly and it seemed a bit too unbelievable
I didn't really care for any of the characters either. None were particularly likeable
Overall, this was an interesting domestic thriller but it just didn't blow me away. Its probably quite forgettable
TW: murder, violence and domestic abuse
I did like the writing style. I thought it was really easy to read and engaging. I flew through it quite quickly when I sat down and read it.
However, there was nothing in the story that made me want to pick it up and read it.
The plot was kinda average. It felt more of a domestic drama for most of the book until the end where it read more like a thriller
I wasn't too keen on the ending. It felt a bit silly and far fetched. It wrapped up incredibly quickly and it seemed a bit too unbelievable
I didn't really care for any of the characters either. None were particularly likeable
Overall, this was an interesting domestic thriller but it just didn't blow me away. Its probably quite forgettable
TW: murder, violence and domestic abuse
February 13, 2024
Lorna Miller and her sister, Dee, go to register the birth of a new baby, but it's obvious that something is amiss. Fast forward to sixteen years later, where Lorna seems settled with her boyfriend, Nick,, his young daughter Darcy and her daughter Liberty.
The story alternates between the past and present. We learn how young Lorna becomes involved with her idol, It's one thing to be trapped in a situation with someone who is an expert manipulator but it is quite another to be trapped in one with someone who is a global star.
Or is this really a case of fandom turned obsessive stalker? Lorna has built her entire life on a bed of lies, which is what makes her sensitive to any intrusion from the outside world. She keeps her daughter Liberty so isolated and caged that the teenager has started to rebel against the very strict rules her mother has put in place.
Little does Lorna know that Liberty is ten steps ahead of her mother when it comes to breaking free and finding out what Lorna has been hiding all these years. She is off to find the mysterious father her mother has kept her away from her entire life. A rock star, a living legend Michael Reyji Ray who lives in the middle of his own forest just a few miles away.
It's a he said she said dilemma. Is she an insane fan or is he a skilled manipulator?
The story alternates between the past and present. We learn how young Lorna becomes involved with her idol, It's one thing to be trapped in a situation with someone who is an expert manipulator but it is quite another to be trapped in one with someone who is a global star.
Or is this really a case of fandom turned obsessive stalker? Lorna has built her entire life on a bed of lies, which is what makes her sensitive to any intrusion from the outside world. She keeps her daughter Liberty so isolated and caged that the teenager has started to rebel against the very strict rules her mother has put in place.
Little does Lorna know that Liberty is ten steps ahead of her mother when it comes to breaking free and finding out what Lorna has been hiding all these years. She is off to find the mysterious father her mother has kept her away from her entire life. A rock star, a living legend Michael Reyji Ray who lives in the middle of his own forest just a few miles away.
It's a he said she said dilemma. Is she an insane fan or is he a skilled manipulator?
July 9, 2020
Tense and unpredictable. I found it hard to relate to the mother, but was mesmerized by the flashbacks. Taut, well plotted and enjoyable
May 8, 2021
I don't think this book was a psychological thriller, I would place it in the action genre, instead. There were many plot twists and at any point, I would not have guessed how all of the events turned out. But nevertheless, it was a very good story about unveiling the real truth.
April 2, 2021
http://www.hyperebaaktiivne.ee/2021/0...
Aitäh, Pegasus, raamatu eest!
Suzy K Quinn "Mitte minu tütar" jõudis minuni koostöö kaudu ja tagakaane tutvustus tõotas põnevat lugemiselamust. Ma ei olnud raamatust varem midagi kuulnud, mistõttu sain lugema asuda ilma ühegi ootuseta.
Tänapäev, UK. 16-aastasena elas Lorna üle vähi. Üksnes see on juba suur õnn, kuid täitub tema teinegi unistus, kohtuda oma lemmiklaulja, rokitähe Michael Reyji Rayga. Neiu ei osanud uneski loota, et mees ta ise teiste fännide seast välja valib. Laulja võtab ta kaasa endaga tuurile ja korrutab, et armastab tüdruku. Tõde oli aga täitunud unistusest väga kaugel. 16 aastat hiljem on Lorna ise teismelise ema. Ta kardab väga oma tütre pärast, kaitstes teda igal võimalikul moel. Nende maja on ümbritsetud kõrgete müüridega ja Liberty võib harva sõpradega kokku saada. Ema varjab, kes on tüdruku isa, sest naise suurim hirm on, et neiu võiks temaga kohtuda. Saladus tuleb muidugi välja. Ühel hommikul leiab Lorna tütre toa tühjana ja teab kohe, et kardetud päev on saabunud.
"Mitte minu tütar" on huvipakkuv põnevik, kus põhilist põnevust tekitab kaitsva ema ja tõde otsiva tütre dünaamika. Lorna jätab kohe alguses väga hüsteerilise mulje. Liberty kaitsmine oli lausa kinnismõte, mistõttu kahtlesin kohati tugevalt ema usaldusväärsuses. Kui hull see isa ikka olla saab? Kõik need müürid, keelud ja tütre vabaduse piiramine tundusid liiast. Ma ei imestanud sugugi, et Liberty ikkagi oma isa otsima läks. Pigem hämmastas, et ta ei olnud varem mässu tõstnud.
Kuna Lorna on niivõrd salalik, hakkas muidugi kripeldama soov teada saada, kust selline ülekaitsev hoiak tuleb. Mineviku peatükkide kaudu hakkab põhjus vaikselt kooruma. Selles loos oli palju šokeerivat ja absurdset. Raske on uskuda, et säärane lugu tõesti aset võiks leida, aga põnevikuna kõlbas lugeda küll. Läbivateks teemadeks on manipulatsioon ja väärkohtlemine, sekka ka mõrva.
Ootasin hoopis teistsugust lõppu ja selline loopööre tuli meeldiva üllatusena. Täitsa pahviks raamat siiski ei löönud, sest
"Mitte minu tütar" on põnevik, milles 16-aastane Liberty läheb keeldudest ja palvetest hoolimata kohtuma oma isaga, kelle eest ema on teda kogu elu üritanud kaitsta ja varjata. Lugedes tekivad kahtlused, keda uskuda ja keda mitte. Süžee oli päris huvitav, aga realistlikkusega see just ei hiilanud. Raamatus on nii etteaimatavaid kui ka ootamatuid loopöördeid. Mulle meeldis väga lõpplahendus, mis oli üllatavalt positiivne. Soovitan, kui sulle meeldib ajaviiteks põnevikke lugeda, aga pigem selliseid, kus saad olla kindel, et sinuga midagi sellist juhtuda ei saa!
Aitäh, Pegasus, raamatu eest!
Suzy K Quinn "Mitte minu tütar" jõudis minuni koostöö kaudu ja tagakaane tutvustus tõotas põnevat lugemiselamust. Ma ei olnud raamatust varem midagi kuulnud, mistõttu sain lugema asuda ilma ühegi ootuseta.
Tänapäev, UK. 16-aastasena elas Lorna üle vähi. Üksnes see on juba suur õnn, kuid täitub tema teinegi unistus, kohtuda oma lemmiklaulja, rokitähe Michael Reyji Rayga. Neiu ei osanud uneski loota, et mees ta ise teiste fännide seast välja valib. Laulja võtab ta kaasa endaga tuurile ja korrutab, et armastab tüdruku. Tõde oli aga täitunud unistusest väga kaugel. 16 aastat hiljem on Lorna ise teismelise ema. Ta kardab väga oma tütre pärast, kaitstes teda igal võimalikul moel. Nende maja on ümbritsetud kõrgete müüridega ja Liberty võib harva sõpradega kokku saada. Ema varjab, kes on tüdruku isa, sest naise suurim hirm on, et neiu võiks temaga kohtuda. Saladus tuleb muidugi välja. Ühel hommikul leiab Lorna tütre toa tühjana ja teab kohe, et kardetud päev on saabunud.
"Mitte minu tütar" on huvipakkuv põnevik, kus põhilist põnevust tekitab kaitsva ema ja tõde otsiva tütre dünaamika. Lorna jätab kohe alguses väga hüsteerilise mulje. Liberty kaitsmine oli lausa kinnismõte, mistõttu kahtlesin kohati tugevalt ema usaldusväärsuses. Kui hull see isa ikka olla saab? Kõik need müürid, keelud ja tütre vabaduse piiramine tundusid liiast. Ma ei imestanud sugugi, et Liberty ikkagi oma isa otsima läks. Pigem hämmastas, et ta ei olnud varem mässu tõstnud.
Kuna Lorna on niivõrd salalik, hakkas muidugi kripeldama soov teada saada, kust selline ülekaitsev hoiak tuleb. Mineviku peatükkide kaudu hakkab põhjus vaikselt kooruma. Selles loos oli palju šokeerivat ja absurdset. Raske on uskuda, et säärane lugu tõesti aset võiks leida, aga põnevikuna kõlbas lugeda küll. Läbivateks teemadeks on manipulatsioon ja väärkohtlemine, sekka ka mõrva.
Ootasin hoopis teistsugust lõppu ja selline loopööre tuli meeldiva üllatusena. Täitsa pahviks raamat siiski ei löönud, sest
"Mitte minu tütar" on põnevik, milles 16-aastane Liberty läheb keeldudest ja palvetest hoolimata kohtuma oma isaga, kelle eest ema on teda kogu elu üritanud kaitsta ja varjata. Lugedes tekivad kahtlused, keda uskuda ja keda mitte. Süžee oli päris huvitav, aga realistlikkusega see just ei hiilanud. Raamatus on nii etteaimatavaid kui ka ootamatuid loopöördeid. Mulle meeldis väga lõpplahendus, mis oli üllatavalt positiivne. Soovitan, kui sulle meeldib ajaviiteks põnevikke lugeda, aga pigem selliseid, kus saad olla kindel, et sinuga midagi sellist juhtuda ei saa!
October 18, 2021
Lorna has been trying to protect her daughter, Liberty, for the last sixteen years. Protecting her means wrapping her up in cotton wall and preventing her from having any kind of teenage life, much to Liberty’s frustration.
All Liberty wants to know is who her biological father is. But Lorna has very good reasons for keeping quiet, reasons firmly sealed in the past. Yet the past has a way of colliding with the present - and when Liberty runs away it appears that Lorna’s worst nightmare is coming true.
A clever little thriller, I loved the fact that it involved a famous rock star - that definitely gave it a unique edge. I sped through the story, it was so easy to read and the two separate timelines kept it fresh and interesting. And a brilliant denouement was the icing on the cake.
All Liberty wants to know is who her biological father is. But Lorna has very good reasons for keeping quiet, reasons firmly sealed in the past. Yet the past has a way of colliding with the present - and when Liberty runs away it appears that Lorna’s worst nightmare is coming true.
A clever little thriller, I loved the fact that it involved a famous rock star - that definitely gave it a unique edge. I sped through the story, it was so easy to read and the two separate timelines kept it fresh and interesting. And a brilliant denouement was the icing on the cake.
July 12, 2020
I like the way this story is told from both the mother and daughter’s point of view. There are also chapters reflecting on Lorna’s history with Michael. This book was a quick, easy read and would suit fans of original, quirky thrillers. I have never read this author before and was excited to give it a try, although I found it quite far-fetched and unbelievable for my personal taste.
Lorna comes across as a crazily overprotective mother, but as the story unfolds, you can see why! The whole premise of the story is an intriguing one and Michael quickly became a character I loved to hate!I I understand there are a lot of positive reviews for this book and I am sure many people would absolutely love this read.
Lorna comes across as a crazily overprotective mother, but as the story unfolds, you can see why! The whole premise of the story is an intriguing one and Michael quickly became a character I loved to hate!I I understand there are a lot of positive reviews for this book and I am sure many people would absolutely love this read.
April 6, 2021
The premise of this book was good and it was definitely a page turner. But it was totally unbelievable. The characters were one dimensional and there is no way that any of this could ever even remotely happen. I just found myself rolling my eyes at Michael and Lorna the entire time.
July 22, 2020
This book begins with one of our main characters, Lorna, registering the birth of her baby girl, Liberty, under pretty sketchy circumstances. It's here we start to see all is not as it seems...
Fast forward sixteen years later and we see Lorna and her teenage daughter Liberty and their tense relationship. Lorna has withheld who her daughter's father really is... she'll do anything to keep it a secret from Liberty but Liberty will do anything to find out...
I enjoyed this book, it was a solid thriller and a quick read. I particularly liked the way I wasn't sure where the book was going... I like thrillers that have you guessing who the bad person really is. Unfortunately I didn't particularly gel with most of the characters. I found them to be quite one dimensional and Nick, Lorna's partner, was so insipid. Honestly, there was no need for him to be in the story, he was an incredible drip!
Some of the story towards the end became a bit unbelievable... Ok, I know it's fiction but sometimes things can get a bit too stupid! The ending was grand. The whole book was just grand.
I would recommend it however, despite my lukewarm review because it was gripping and it is definitely not the worst thriller I have ever read, not by a long shot (Lynda Stacey's The Fake Date STILL holds that trophy...) and if you're looking for a tense, gripping thriller that's a quick read, definitely pick this up.
I received a copy as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Fast forward sixteen years later and we see Lorna and her teenage daughter Liberty and their tense relationship. Lorna has withheld who her daughter's father really is... she'll do anything to keep it a secret from Liberty but Liberty will do anything to find out...
I enjoyed this book, it was a solid thriller and a quick read. I particularly liked the way I wasn't sure where the book was going... I like thrillers that have you guessing who the bad person really is. Unfortunately I didn't particularly gel with most of the characters. I found them to be quite one dimensional and Nick, Lorna's partner, was so insipid. Honestly, there was no need for him to be in the story, he was an incredible drip!
Some of the story towards the end became a bit unbelievable... Ok, I know it's fiction but sometimes things can get a bit too stupid! The ending was grand. The whole book was just grand.
I would recommend it however, despite my lukewarm review because it was gripping and it is definitely not the worst thriller I have ever read, not by a long shot (Lynda Stacey's The Fake Date STILL holds that trophy...) and if you're looking for a tense, gripping thriller that's a quick read, definitely pick this up.
I received a copy as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2020
I've not read anything by this author before but was keen to give this book a go. The storyline intrigued me and I felt some connection with Liberty and not knowing her biological father.
I found this a gripping and quick read, with short chapters and a storyline that kept me gripped. The writing flowed well and was engaging, everything in a good book.
However as the story continued the more it seemed a little unbelievable. The twists within the pages were good but I did find the last part of the book perhaps a little rushed.
That said, I'd definitely be happy to look at more books by this author.
I found this a gripping and quick read, with short chapters and a storyline that kept me gripped. The writing flowed well and was engaging, everything in a good book.
However as the story continued the more it seemed a little unbelievable. The twists within the pages were good but I did find the last part of the book perhaps a little rushed.
That said, I'd definitely be happy to look at more books by this author.
July 11, 2020
This book is a really quick read, short chapters and fast paced keeps your attention throughout and wondering where it’s going. I really enjoyed this one, Lorna suffocates Liberty by now allowing her to go out at night or see friends. She thinks she is saving her but actually she’s damaging her. Liberty seems to rebel against everything and will not stop until she finds out the truth. The twists towards the end really surprised me and whilst it’s not hugely realistic I loved it. Well written and keeps you guessing, I’ll definitely be on the look out for more by this author.
May 28, 2020
Lorna's daughter, Liberty wants to meet her father but Lorna knows he's a dangerous man. She was manipulated by an older, famous man when she was just 16 years old, but Lorna has tried to raise her daughter right and keep her safe. Liberty is determined though and finds out who he is and where he lives.
When I first started to read this, I wasn't sure if it was my kind of book but I was very surprised to find how quickly I was drawn into the story. The reader gets the viewpoint of both past and present Lorna, along with chapters from Liberty's point of view. The author does a great job of making the reader unsure who is telling the truth, Michael or Lorna. The ending is probably the weakest part for me as it seemed a little far-fetched in some respects. Overall, it was well worth a read.
TW: domestic abuse, statutory rape, sexual assault, manipulation.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, HQ, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
When I first started to read this, I wasn't sure if it was my kind of book but I was very surprised to find how quickly I was drawn into the story. The reader gets the viewpoint of both past and present Lorna, along with chapters from Liberty's point of view. The author does a great job of making the reader unsure who is telling the truth, Michael or Lorna. The ending is probably the weakest part for me as it seemed a little far-fetched in some respects. Overall, it was well worth a read.
TW: domestic abuse, statutory rape, sexual assault, manipulation.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers, HQ, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
April 26, 2020
Now this is one hell of a read. I could not put it down for a second and whizzed through it in an afternoon (sorry family).
A fantastic psychological thriller that will have you constantly guessing right up until the end.
Written in alternate times and narratives it was totally unpredictable, fast paced, captivating and full of suspense.
I loved the way it leads you down this twisty turny and complex path ending in a really satisfactory ending.
Touching on tough subjects of domestic violence, manipulation, abuse, underage sex and murder.. Suzy Quinn has once again blew me away with her ability to weave things together so beautifully.
The characters are full of complexities and you can actually feel the raw emotion as the story unfolds.
The quotes from fairytales work brilliantly and especially come together towards the end!
A huge thank you to netgalley and HQ for the ARC.
A fantastic psychological thriller that will have you constantly guessing right up until the end.
Written in alternate times and narratives it was totally unpredictable, fast paced, captivating and full of suspense.
I loved the way it leads you down this twisty turny and complex path ending in a really satisfactory ending.
Touching on tough subjects of domestic violence, manipulation, abuse, underage sex and murder.. Suzy Quinn has once again blew me away with her ability to weave things together so beautifully.
The characters are full of complexities and you can actually feel the raw emotion as the story unfolds.
The quotes from fairytales work brilliantly and especially come together towards the end!
A huge thank you to netgalley and HQ for the ARC.
December 17, 2020
Are you kidding me...
Amateurish, stilted, unrealistic, predictable, painful. The premise could have been great, if it weren’t so rushed and EXPLAINED. Not one second of nuance or originality. Every section has that “explain the past awkwardly, so this part makes sense” thing going on. No guessing or surprises or creativity. The author’s attempt at Stockholm Syndrome is as if she saw one news story and thought she’d earned a PhD in Psych, and then comes the “big finale-“ a teenage girl trains a dog as if she had raised him at Scotland Yards. It’s all just ridiculous. When I glanced over the N notes, that included she had finished the book during Covid, all I could think of was Ooooooh, OK. She had to meet a deadline. So I’ll give her two stars for shoving this to her editor on time…
Amateurish, stilted, unrealistic, predictable, painful. The premise could have been great, if it weren’t so rushed and EXPLAINED. Not one second of nuance or originality. Every section has that “explain the past awkwardly, so this part makes sense” thing going on. No guessing or surprises or creativity. The author’s attempt at Stockholm Syndrome is as if she saw one news story and thought she’d earned a PhD in Psych, and then comes the “big finale-“ a teenage girl trains a dog as if she had raised him at Scotland Yards. It’s all just ridiculous. When I glanced over the N notes, that included she had finished the book during Covid, all I could think of was Ooooooh, OK. She had to meet a deadline. So I’ll give her two stars for shoving this to her editor on time…
May 25, 2020
I would firstly like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a read! I honestly couldn't put this book down! I was hooked right from the very first chapter!
The plot had a 50/50 chance of going either way but I still found myself shocked by the twists and turns. Did not expect the backstory to be what it was!! Chilling, terrifying and guaranteed to have your heart pounding the whole way through, I highly recommend this one!
What a read! I honestly couldn't put this book down! I was hooked right from the very first chapter!
The plot had a 50/50 chance of going either way but I still found myself shocked by the twists and turns. Did not expect the backstory to be what it was!! Chilling, terrifying and guaranteed to have your heart pounding the whole way through, I highly recommend this one!
July 18, 2020
Seriously weird book, too far fetched for me, ending was just OTT even by my standards.
December 17, 2020
It's one thing to be trapped in a situation with someone who is an expert manipulator but it is quite another to be trapped in one with someone who is a global star.
Or is this really a case of fandom turned obsessive stalker? Lorna has built her entire life on a bed of lies, which is what makes her sensitive to any intrusion from the outside world. She keeps her daughter Liberty so isolated and caged that the teenager has started to rebel against the very strict rules her mother has put in place.
Little does Lorna know that Liberty is ten steps ahead of her mother when it comes to breaking free and finding out what Lorna has been hiding all these years. She is off to find the mysterious father her mother has kept her away from her entire life. A rock star, a living legend who lives in the middle of his own forest just a few miles away.
Quinn presents a not entirely uncommon situation - a he said she said dilemma. Is she an insane fan or is he a skilled manipulator? By putting the world of celebrity into the equation it amplifies the imbalance of power and the lack of support potential victims encounter.
Without drawing specific attention to it the author also shows the position of strength a powerful person can manipulate from. A platform can be used to influence fans and followers, which always puts the non-celebrity in a weaker position.
It's an emotional fast-paced read with a nice wicked twist at the end.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Or is this really a case of fandom turned obsessive stalker? Lorna has built her entire life on a bed of lies, which is what makes her sensitive to any intrusion from the outside world. She keeps her daughter Liberty so isolated and caged that the teenager has started to rebel against the very strict rules her mother has put in place.
Little does Lorna know that Liberty is ten steps ahead of her mother when it comes to breaking free and finding out what Lorna has been hiding all these years. She is off to find the mysterious father her mother has kept her away from her entire life. A rock star, a living legend who lives in the middle of his own forest just a few miles away.
Quinn presents a not entirely uncommon situation - a he said she said dilemma. Is she an insane fan or is he a skilled manipulator? By putting the world of celebrity into the equation it amplifies the imbalance of power and the lack of support potential victims encounter.
Without drawing specific attention to it the author also shows the position of strength a powerful person can manipulate from. A platform can be used to influence fans and followers, which always puts the non-celebrity in a weaker position.
It's an emotional fast-paced read with a nice wicked twist at the end.
*I received a courtesy copy*
June 26, 2021
Lorna Miller, 17, and an American, is nervous about registering the birth of her daughter, Liberty. Lorna is a cancer survivor and lives with her older sister, Dee.
When Lorna was 16, she became enthralled by rock star, Michael Ray. He spied her at one of his concerts and she eagerly joined the tour as his girlfriend although he has long been married.
Sixteen years later
Lorna and Liberty live in the UK. After many years, Lorna is engaged to marry Nick, the father of 4-year-old Darcy, a child with autism. Liberty is an intelligent girl who loves music and enjoys helping with Darcy and keeping her calm. Lorna does all she can to try and keep Liberty close to home, but at 16, the girl is ready to spread her wings and learn more about life. So when Liberty finally learns who her father is, she is determined to meet him, and surprisingly enough he lives close by. Lorna is frantic and wants to know where Liberty is.
This book is many things. There is cruelty; teenagers who idolize musicians; motherly love; drugs; alcohol; rape; etc. It switches from present time to the past. Readers will wonder who the crazy one is, Michael or Lorna. It had me on the edge of my seat wondering how people can live in this entertainment world. The cruelty and perfectly portrayed narcissism is mind-boggling. I’m sure that readers will enjoy this cringe-worthy book.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When Lorna was 16, she became enthralled by rock star, Michael Ray. He spied her at one of his concerts and she eagerly joined the tour as his girlfriend although he has long been married.
Sixteen years later
Lorna and Liberty live in the UK. After many years, Lorna is engaged to marry Nick, the father of 4-year-old Darcy, a child with autism. Liberty is an intelligent girl who loves music and enjoys helping with Darcy and keeping her calm. Lorna does all she can to try and keep Liberty close to home, but at 16, the girl is ready to spread her wings and learn more about life. So when Liberty finally learns who her father is, she is determined to meet him, and surprisingly enough he lives close by. Lorna is frantic and wants to know where Liberty is.
This book is many things. There is cruelty; teenagers who idolize musicians; motherly love; drugs; alcohol; rape; etc. It switches from present time to the past. Readers will wonder who the crazy one is, Michael or Lorna. It had me on the edge of my seat wondering how people can live in this entertainment world. The cruelty and perfectly portrayed narcissism is mind-boggling. I’m sure that readers will enjoy this cringe-worthy book.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 9, 2020
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Well, this was quite the read! Certainly one of guilty pleasures of 2020 so far. Suzy Quinn is an extraordinary thriller writer and she certainly knows how to hook her readers from the get-go. It is far from convoluted in terms of plotting but it is mighty entertaining. Moreover, there is no point in the story where it feels right to put it down, before embarking on the next reading session. So, you just have to keep reading and reading. Before long you are reading well into the night. This is the story of Lorna and Liberty and secrets from the past about to collide in the present. It begins with the birth of now sixteen-year old Liberty. We know her mother, Lorna is fearful of Liberty’s biological father but details are sparse. Fast forward to the present, and a curious Liberty runs away to begin the search for her biological father. Without entering the dreaded territory of spoilers, we learn that there is more to past events than we would first assume. With a deft touch and some ingenious plotting, Suzy Quinn takes us on a thrilling journey to the lowest depths of the human condition in all its myriad forms. Thrilling stuff.
Well, this was quite the read! Certainly one of guilty pleasures of 2020 so far. Suzy Quinn is an extraordinary thriller writer and she certainly knows how to hook her readers from the get-go. It is far from convoluted in terms of plotting but it is mighty entertaining. Moreover, there is no point in the story where it feels right to put it down, before embarking on the next reading session. So, you just have to keep reading and reading. Before long you are reading well into the night. This is the story of Lorna and Liberty and secrets from the past about to collide in the present. It begins with the birth of now sixteen-year old Liberty. We know her mother, Lorna is fearful of Liberty’s biological father but details are sparse. Fast forward to the present, and a curious Liberty runs away to begin the search for her biological father. Without entering the dreaded territory of spoilers, we learn that there is more to past events than we would first assume. With a deft touch and some ingenious plotting, Suzy Quinn takes us on a thrilling journey to the lowest depths of the human condition in all its myriad forms. Thrilling stuff.
April 8, 2020
Another great read by Suzy! An unforgettable psychological thriller that will have you guessing right till the end as it leads you via a twisty, complex path to a surprising conclusion!
This book tackles difficult dark subjects such as psychological and mental torture, physical abuse, manipulation, underage sex and murder and is dark and menacing in places yet chilling, creepy and addictive at the same time! It will keep you on the edge of your seat you won’t want to put it down, the complexities of the main characters are astounding and it’s difficult to work out how the book will end it kept me gripped right till the end!
Thank you net galley for this early read!
This book tackles difficult dark subjects such as psychological and mental torture, physical abuse, manipulation, underage sex and murder and is dark and menacing in places yet chilling, creepy and addictive at the same time! It will keep you on the edge of your seat you won’t want to put it down, the complexities of the main characters are astounding and it’s difficult to work out how the book will end it kept me gripped right till the end!
Thank you net galley for this early read!
December 28, 2020
What can I say about this book? It has me interested from the beginning. I couldn’t put it down. It follows the story of Lorna and her daughter Lorna has kept her daughter sheltered all of her life for what she believes are good reasons. Then things start to unravel as the past catches up to her. There were even twists I didn’t see coming which is very rare for me considering the amount of this genre I read. I can’t wait to get another book by Suzy. Thanks Suzy looking forward to the next one!
July 13, 2020
I absolutely loved this one! It was fast paced, exciting, gripping and just an overall addictive thriller that keeps you wanting to know more.
It's everything I want from a psychological thriller, I have never read anything by Suzy before and will definitely be on the look out for more!
The ending wasn't as realistic as you would think but it worked really well. The characters are very well portrayed and I definitely found myself questioning who was actually telling the truth.
Thank you to HQ for gifting me a copy in exchange for a honest review.
It's everything I want from a psychological thriller, I have never read anything by Suzy before and will definitely be on the look out for more!
The ending wasn't as realistic as you would think but it worked really well. The characters are very well portrayed and I definitely found myself questioning who was actually telling the truth.
Thank you to HQ for gifting me a copy in exchange for a honest review.
October 8, 2022
The ending saved this one, even if a bit far fetched. It's not a bad story, but some lazy writing, quite a bit of completely unnecessary fatphobia, and several grammatical mistakes make this a rough read. I was max 3 stars until the end which at least made it more enjoyable if you can suspend reality of the situation.
July 6, 2022
This was a good book, probably more a 3.5 stars for me. I enjoyed it and it was quite a quick read. The story had a hard theme to it and was quite horrible to read in places. I didn't expect the twist that came but definitely happy with how it ended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews