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Paper Dolls
'Prepare for your heart rate to rise reading this edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller!' The Sun'If you're looking for a page-turner, this is it!' Hello!'The perfect choice for fans of C.L. Taylor and Louise Candlish' Woman's Weekly'A superbly pacy thriller that will keep you looking over your shoulder' Sunday MirrorYOU HAVEN'T FORGOTTEN.THEY HAVEN'T FORGIVEN. Leah Wallace has just achieved her dream of becoming editor at a regional paper. On her first day a 15-year-old girl, Hope Hooper-Smith, is reported missing. The police fear that she has been abducted. Hours later, another teenage girl goes missing. But this girl, Tilly Bowers, is from a troubled background and is a habitual runaway. Leah decides to run the Hope's abduction on the front page, while Tilly only gets a small mention on page eighteen. The next day, Hope is found unharmed at a train station. But Tilly is never seen or heard from again.Sixteen years later, a TV documentary questions Leah's decision not to give Tilly's case immediate coverage, implying that she could have cost Tilly her life, and Leah starts receiving death threats online. Then mysterious paper dolls begin appearing, cut from the newspapers Leah used to edit, and she suspects that an intruder has been in the house. Leah becomes convinced that someone wants to punish her for the part she played in Tilly's disappearance. But just how far will they go to make her pay? A gripping and chilling psychological thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell and C.L. Taylor.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2020
44 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 13, 2020
Sixteen years ago Leah an editor of a local newspaper made a decision which haunts her to this day. Two girls disappear on the same day. Hope is from a white, middle class comfortable background, she’s never run off before so there’s major concern. Then there’s Tilly, who is black, a frequent runaway and from a council estate. Hope makes the front page and Tilly doesn’t, Hope is found, Tilly is not. The case is resurrected again following a Netflix documentary and strange and threatening events start occurring to Leah with someone leaving her paper dolls. Her husband Chris, son Luke and best friend Bunty believe the guilt, obsession and torment over Tilly’s fate is making Leah unstable and deluded. This story has timelines from the present day and flashbacks to 2003.
I really like the premise of the book which I think makes a valid point with the ‘missing white woman/girl syndrome ‘ with some attracting much more media attention than others. I’m sure we could all cite well known examples of child abductions where parents from different social backgrounds are not treated the same. I like the characters and the relationship between Luke and Leah is terrific with some of their banter making me laugh, their bond warms your heart. Leah’s best friend Bunty is one of the standout characters, she’s acerbic and their dialogue is whip-smart and often funny. This provides a good contrast to the unsettling events that occur to Leah. Is she imagining these things, doing it herself as her mental health seems to be suffering or is the threat real? It’s certainly creepy and both Luke and Leah are spooked. The ending is unexpected which is good as I hadn’t anticipated that!
However, the pacing of the novel is uneven and the storyline does seem to be drawn out at times although a lot of that starts to make sense as the strands of the storyline come together at the end.
Overall, I did enjoy it and I want to read more by Lisa Bradley.
With thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC
I really like the premise of the book which I think makes a valid point with the ‘missing white woman/girl syndrome ‘ with some attracting much more media attention than others. I’m sure we could all cite well known examples of child abductions where parents from different social backgrounds are not treated the same. I like the characters and the relationship between Luke and Leah is terrific with some of their banter making me laugh, their bond warms your heart. Leah’s best friend Bunty is one of the standout characters, she’s acerbic and their dialogue is whip-smart and often funny. This provides a good contrast to the unsettling events that occur to Leah. Is she imagining these things, doing it herself as her mental health seems to be suffering or is the threat real? It’s certainly creepy and both Luke and Leah are spooked. The ending is unexpected which is good as I hadn’t anticipated that!
However, the pacing of the novel is uneven and the storyline does seem to be drawn out at times although a lot of that starts to make sense as the strands of the storyline come together at the end.
Overall, I did enjoy it and I want to read more by Lisa Bradley.
With thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC
December 13, 2021
I did not like the way this started the characters were unliveable & I could not connect wth them. Was looking forward to this one this was crass @ boring. The. c word was used am not a prude but it’s not necessary I know I am an outlier on this but I don’t care.
July 11, 2020
Paper Dolls by Lisa Bradley was a quick read with an interesting story. It started off really well but I felt a bit disappointed by the ending. I didn't see how it was going to finish and it did surprise me, The main characters were all a bit irritating to be honest.
16 years ago Leah was a news paper editor. Her decision to put missing girl Holly, a pretty blonde white girl from a good home on the front page of her paper, while another missing girl, Tilly was relegated to page 17 has always haunted her. Holly was found soon after and Tilly is still classed as missing. Now married and with a sin of her own she finds herself reliving that decision on a Netflix documentary. After it airs, strange things start to happen and it all seems to be linked to the missing girls.
Thanks to Quercus Book and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
16 years ago Leah was a news paper editor. Her decision to put missing girl Holly, a pretty blonde white girl from a good home on the front page of her paper, while another missing girl, Tilly was relegated to page 17 has always haunted her. Holly was found soon after and Tilly is still classed as missing. Now married and with a sin of her own she finds herself reliving that decision on a Netflix documentary. After it airs, strange things start to happen and it all seems to be linked to the missing girls.
Thanks to Quercus Book and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
August 6, 2020
Sixteen years ago Leah was the editor of the local newspaper. She made a decision that still haunts her today.
Leah is about to make a documentary for Netflix regarding the disappearance of two girls sixteen years ago. Instead of giving the girls equal exposure, the girl the paper highlighted was found the next day. The other girl was never found. Leah is now being hounded by someone playing mind games with her.
The story is told in the past, sixteen years ago and the present day. The plot is interesting with unlikable characters. I did like the the relationship Leah had with her son, Luke and her best friend Bunty. The pace is slow but it does pick up in the second half. This is quite good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Lisa Bradley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review
Leah is about to make a documentary for Netflix regarding the disappearance of two girls sixteen years ago. Instead of giving the girls equal exposure, the girl the paper highlighted was found the next day. The other girl was never found. Leah is now being hounded by someone playing mind games with her.
The story is told in the past, sixteen years ago and the present day. The plot is interesting with unlikable characters. I did like the the relationship Leah had with her son, Luke and her best friend Bunty. The pace is slow but it does pick up in the second half. This is quite good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Lisa Bradley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 6, 2020
Sixteen years ago a 15-year-old girl, Hope Hooper-Smith, is reported missing. The police fear that she has been abducted. Hours later, another teenage girl,Tilly Bowers, goes missing. But she is from a troubled background and is a habitual runaway.
Leah Wallace, an editor at a regional paper, decides to run the Hope's abduction on the front page, while Tilly only gets a small mention on page eighteen. The next day, Hope is found unharmed at a train station. But Tilly is never seen or heard from again.
Now, a TV documentary questions Leah's decision not to give Tilly's case immediate coverage. Branded as a racist and implying that she could have cost Tilly her life, Leah starts receiving threats and she begins to find mysterious paper dolls all over her house. Somebody wants to punish her, but who?
This book had an interesting and unique plot. What I liked the most in the book, was the depiction of relationships of Leah with her son Luke and her best friend Bunty. Initially I found the book moving at a slow pace but as it reached the end, it picked up pace and the end was good and unexpected.
Overall a satisfying read!
Thank You to NetGalley and Quercus Books for this ARC!!
.
Leah Wallace, an editor at a regional paper, decides to run the Hope's abduction on the front page, while Tilly only gets a small mention on page eighteen. The next day, Hope is found unharmed at a train station. But Tilly is never seen or heard from again.
Now, a TV documentary questions Leah's decision not to give Tilly's case immediate coverage. Branded as a racist and implying that she could have cost Tilly her life, Leah starts receiving threats and she begins to find mysterious paper dolls all over her house. Somebody wants to punish her, but who?
This book had an interesting and unique plot. What I liked the most in the book, was the depiction of relationships of Leah with her son Luke and her best friend Bunty. Initially I found the book moving at a slow pace but as it reached the end, it picked up pace and the end was good and unexpected.
Overall a satisfying read!
Thank You to NetGalley and Quercus Books for this ARC!!
.
August 6, 2020
Sixteen years ago Leah was the editor of the local newspaper. She made a decision that still haunts her today.
Leah is about to make a documentary for Netflix regarding the disappearance of two girls sixteen years ago. Instead of giving the girls equal exposure, the girl the paper highlighted was found the next day. The other girl has never been found. Leah is now being hounded by someone playing mind games with her.
The story is told in the past, sixteen years ago and the present day. The plot is interesting with unlikable characters. I did like the the relationship Leah had with her son and her best friend Bunty. The pace us slow but it does pick up in the second half. This is quite good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Lisa Bradley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Leah is about to make a documentary for Netflix regarding the disappearance of two girls sixteen years ago. Instead of giving the girls equal exposure, the girl the paper highlighted was found the next day. The other girl has never been found. Leah is now being hounded by someone playing mind games with her.
The story is told in the past, sixteen years ago and the present day. The plot is interesting with unlikable characters. I did like the the relationship Leah had with her son and her best friend Bunty. The pace us slow but it does pick up in the second half. This is quite good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author Lisa Bradley for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book, it is one of those where you pray the book is as good as the synopsis; and it is!
I have never read this author before and really liked the writing style, the characters were very interesting and different, no bland boring characters here!
I loved Bunty, she made me laugh, although the whole book was pretty dark; the main character Leah feels she is being watched and stalked, weird and disturbing things happen but is she mentally ill or disturbed? Or are they really happening?
There are twists and turns, and I didn't expect the ending at all, a very absorbing read, great writing that grabs your attention, superb plot with really great characters, I will certainly seek out more by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus for the ARC and the opportunity to read this book and review.
I have never read this author before and really liked the writing style, the characters were very interesting and different, no bland boring characters here!
I loved Bunty, she made me laugh, although the whole book was pretty dark; the main character Leah feels she is being watched and stalked, weird and disturbing things happen but is she mentally ill or disturbed? Or are they really happening?
There are twists and turns, and I didn't expect the ending at all, a very absorbing read, great writing that grabs your attention, superb plot with really great characters, I will certainly seek out more by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quercus for the ARC and the opportunity to read this book and review.
October 26, 2020
What a fantastic debut novel from Lisa Bradley. Paper Dolls had me on the edge of my seat and is a genuine psychological thriller.
After reading a few somewhat disappointing ‘domestic thrillers’ recently, I was fearful this would be another formulaic story filled with unlikeable characters. But I couldn’t have been more wrong! I really felt for Leah and her situation. There were twists too, and I raced through the last quarter of the book itching to find out who, if anyone, was pursuing her.
In summary, Paper Dolls is a real page turner and (for me at least) it was impossible to foresee the twists. I’m really looking forward to Lisa’s next novel.
After reading a few somewhat disappointing ‘domestic thrillers’ recently, I was fearful this would be another formulaic story filled with unlikeable characters. But I couldn’t have been more wrong! I really felt for Leah and her situation. There were twists too, and I raced through the last quarter of the book itching to find out who, if anyone, was pursuing her.
In summary, Paper Dolls is a real page turner and (for me at least) it was impossible to foresee the twists. I’m really looking forward to Lisa’s next novel.
December 16, 2020
One mistake in 2003 caused havoc in the present due to the guilt it evoked. Author Lisa Bradley used this as the plot arc in writing a story enveloped in suspense and a sense of haunting.
Leah was the chief editor in 2003 and chose to portray the details of missing girls in her paper, one on the front page and the other several pages down, in a corner, based on tips from the police. But the problem was the girl on the front page was a white blonde and the one on the 7th was black. That disparity led to huge backlash.
In the present times, someone was using her guilt to stalk her with candles and paper dolls, cut out of newspaper. None, including husband Chris, believed her when she could feel someone catching up with her.
My first book by this author, I found it an easy read where moments and scenes felt familiar, yet there was an addictive feel to it. I wasn’t invested in the main character, but there was a vulnerability to her. I loved her dialogues with best friend and son. They were humorous and snappy.
The pace was erratic, I didn’t mind it as it gave me a chance to flip through pages faster. The ending was indeed a surprise, never expected it. Overall, it had its moments of intrigue.
Leah was the chief editor in 2003 and chose to portray the details of missing girls in her paper, one on the front page and the other several pages down, in a corner, based on tips from the police. But the problem was the girl on the front page was a white blonde and the one on the 7th was black. That disparity led to huge backlash.
In the present times, someone was using her guilt to stalk her with candles and paper dolls, cut out of newspaper. None, including husband Chris, believed her when she could feel someone catching up with her.
My first book by this author, I found it an easy read where moments and scenes felt familiar, yet there was an addictive feel to it. I wasn’t invested in the main character, but there was a vulnerability to her. I loved her dialogues with best friend and son. They were humorous and snappy.
The pace was erratic, I didn’t mind it as it gave me a chance to flip through pages faster. The ending was indeed a surprise, never expected it. Overall, it had its moments of intrigue.
June 21, 2021
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 gripping debut!
I thought I had guessed correctly what was happening. I was wrong! The fast-paced unpredictable, intense storyline made it very difficult for me to put this book down. I was hooked!
Skillfully written, excellently-developed characters, and a suspenseful dark premise with an ending I certainly didn't see coming, I will be awaiting impatiently for Lisa Bradley's next. A must-read!
What a gripping debut!
I thought I had guessed correctly what was happening. I was wrong! The fast-paced unpredictable, intense storyline made it very difficult for me to put this book down. I was hooked!
Skillfully written, excellently-developed characters, and a suspenseful dark premise with an ending I certainly didn't see coming, I will be awaiting impatiently for Lisa Bradley's next. A must-read!
May 5, 2024
Good easy read. Leah a redundant journalist fears she made a mistake with one of her stories in the past. I enjoyed the characters and the story was fast paced and kept me guessing. The best part was the actual end and left me wanting a second book. Definitely a good summer read.
September 18, 2021
I enjoyed the premise of this book, I liked the idea of the book being based around Leah’s past decisions as an editor and the consequences from these. The themes of racism and white privilege were noted towards the start of the book which is important however I feel these should have been carried on more in the book.
The twist was average, I didn’t guess straight away but as a thriller reader not much shocks me anymore!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and following the themes within. It was easy to understand and follow and an enjoyable read.
The twist was average, I didn’t guess straight away but as a thriller reader not much shocks me anymore!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and following the themes within. It was easy to understand and follow and an enjoyable read.
July 27, 2020
Massive disclaimer: MY FRIEND WROTE THIS BOOK.
OK. So, it was a little weird reading a book by someone I know so well. It was really hard not to simultaneously be SO EXCITED that my friend had written a real book whilst searching for autobiographical details / people we both know. I did notice that Leah's arsehole boss shares a name with my husband (coincidence?🤔).
It didn't take long though for the story to really grip me, however. Very quickly, I was completely won over by the relatable characters and their very normal lives.
The thought of being watched or having your home invaded is something that chills and this plays brilliantly on that fear.
The story has a great slow build. As the story progresses, the creepy unease intensifies and I found myself repeatedly willing Leah to trust noone. This story proper jangled on every one of my nerves as it built to a brilliant ending that I did not see coming at all.
I'm not usually that keen on reading thrillers, but I absolutely loved this book!
OK. So, it was a little weird reading a book by someone I know so well. It was really hard not to simultaneously be SO EXCITED that my friend had written a real book whilst searching for autobiographical details / people we both know. I did notice that Leah's arsehole boss shares a name with my husband (coincidence?🤔).
It didn't take long though for the story to really grip me, however. Very quickly, I was completely won over by the relatable characters and their very normal lives.
The thought of being watched or having your home invaded is something that chills and this plays brilliantly on that fear.
The story has a great slow build. As the story progresses, the creepy unease intensifies and I found myself repeatedly willing Leah to trust noone. This story proper jangled on every one of my nerves as it built to a brilliant ending that I did not see coming at all.
I'm not usually that keen on reading thrillers, but I absolutely loved this book!
August 10, 2020
A chilling debut packed with twists & turns.
I love the premise of this novel, it was an interesting unique story, split between to timelines present-day and 16 years earlier when the girls went missing. It kept me guessing until the very end.
The relationship Leah had with her son Luke is so heartwarming and Bunty was a fabulous stand out character smart and funny she provided the perfect tonic for the unsettlings, disturbing events happening to Leah.
It missed out on 5⭐because it was a slow burner, to begin with, although the pace picks up in the second half.
Overall, a creepy debut well worth a read for all psychological thriller fans!
A huge thanks to Katya Ellis & Quercus Books for gifting me a copy in return for an open & honest review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⠀⠀
I love the premise of this novel, it was an interesting unique story, split between to timelines present-day and 16 years earlier when the girls went missing. It kept me guessing until the very end.
The relationship Leah had with her son Luke is so heartwarming and Bunty was a fabulous stand out character smart and funny she provided the perfect tonic for the unsettlings, disturbing events happening to Leah.
It missed out on 5⭐because it was a slow burner, to begin with, although the pace picks up in the second half.
Overall, a creepy debut well worth a read for all psychological thriller fans!
A huge thanks to Katya Ellis & Quercus Books for gifting me a copy in return for an open & honest review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⠀⠀
July 2, 2020
What. A. Book. I raced through this thriller in no time! The conversational tone of the book and my warmth towards the protagonist Leah made this such a great book for me.
First and foremost though, I feel I want to quickly touch of the Mother/Son bond between Leah and Luke, yes this is a thriller above all, but the bond these two have and show throughout the book is really heartwarming, and made me question whether the author herself may have a son she is extremely close to as it really was written with such kindness and love that it made me heart swell when they were in dialogue with each other.
Now onto the thriller itself, WOW. I couldn't have read it quicker, the idea of the paper dolls cut from old newspaper clippings of the case was such a spine tingling touch and I could really picture the candlelight flickering just to realise small traces of the faces in the pictures... truly terrifying. The book follows our protagonist Leah as she is ready for a documentary to launch on Netflix about a case of 2 missing girls in which her newspaper may have highlighted the wrong girl instead of giving them equal exposure, leading the less highlighted girl never being seen again and the one they gave the attention to being found within a day. We follow along as Leah is being tormented by someone who is playing mind games with her and almost mentally torturing her for her papers decision all those years ago... but is she being tortured by some unknown being, or is it all in her head? or could she possibly be doing it all herself?
The book flips between two time lines, 'present day Leah' which I have mentioned above and 16 years earlier which is when the 2 girls in question went missing, and the story around the disappearances and the papers decision on which to give coverage to is slowly revealed,
A thoroughly enjoyable book which will keep you guessing till the very end. Spoiler alert... I tried to guess and I got it all completely wrong!! Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus Books for the ARC!
First and foremost though, I feel I want to quickly touch of the Mother/Son bond between Leah and Luke, yes this is a thriller above all, but the bond these two have and show throughout the book is really heartwarming, and made me question whether the author herself may have a son she is extremely close to as it really was written with such kindness and love that it made me heart swell when they were in dialogue with each other.
Now onto the thriller itself, WOW. I couldn't have read it quicker, the idea of the paper dolls cut from old newspaper clippings of the case was such a spine tingling touch and I could really picture the candlelight flickering just to realise small traces of the faces in the pictures... truly terrifying. The book follows our protagonist Leah as she is ready for a documentary to launch on Netflix about a case of 2 missing girls in which her newspaper may have highlighted the wrong girl instead of giving them equal exposure, leading the less highlighted girl never being seen again and the one they gave the attention to being found within a day. We follow along as Leah is being tormented by someone who is playing mind games with her and almost mentally torturing her for her papers decision all those years ago... but is she being tortured by some unknown being, or is it all in her head? or could she possibly be doing it all herself?
The book flips between two time lines, 'present day Leah' which I have mentioned above and 16 years earlier which is when the 2 girls in question went missing, and the story around the disappearances and the papers decision on which to give coverage to is slowly revealed,
A thoroughly enjoyable book which will keep you guessing till the very end. Spoiler alert... I tried to guess and I got it all completely wrong!! Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus Books for the ARC!
August 5, 2020
Leah is still trying to get over the story of a young missing girl she pushed onto page 18 rather then the front page of her local paper 16 years ago. Her decision as editor haunts her.
Now, all those years later, settled with her husband Chris and her son Luke, someone is trying to send her a message. Paper dolls and candles appear in places they shouldn’t and Leah is scared someone’s come back to shiny her.
This was a real chilling thriller! In some places it really creeped me out! I loved Leah’s character and how those around her thought she was losing her mind. Bunty was a good contrast to her and a great ally.
For a debut novel this was gripping and scary and everything I want from a psychological thriller. I can’t wait to read more from Lisa Bradley.
Now, all those years later, settled with her husband Chris and her son Luke, someone is trying to send her a message. Paper dolls and candles appear in places they shouldn’t and Leah is scared someone’s come back to shiny her.
This was a real chilling thriller! In some places it really creeped me out! I loved Leah’s character and how those around her thought she was losing her mind. Bunty was a good contrast to her and a great ally.
For a debut novel this was gripping and scary and everything I want from a psychological thriller. I can’t wait to read more from Lisa Bradley.
September 9, 2020
More red herrings than a fish mongers. I thought I knew who was tormenting Leah, an ex journalist but ultimately I was wrong.
Leah is carrying guilt over an old story she wrote years ago, when two girls went missing at the same time. Because Tilly was an habitual runaway her story got put towards the back of the paper. Hope was middle class and her story took prominence on the front page and she was found. Tilly never was.
The story switches back and forth to the past and present as strange things start to happen to Leah which leads to others starting to question her own sanity.
Leah is carrying guilt over an old story she wrote years ago, when two girls went missing at the same time. Because Tilly was an habitual runaway her story got put towards the back of the paper. Hope was middle class and her story took prominence on the front page and she was found. Tilly never was.
The story switches back and forth to the past and present as strange things start to happen to Leah which leads to others starting to question her own sanity.
March 10, 2023
I enjoyed this more than I thought I would mainly because of the character Bunty. There was more humour in this then I anticipated so that was a big plus for me. At times it felt slightly slow and overall not much happens, but it was a good time
September 6, 2024
2.5 rounded up / read for book club, bang average book. way too many elements in an effort to make the ending a twist (and in order to dress up the subpar writing) but just ended up feeling disjointed and ends with loose ends
February 19, 2021
Great in parts but overall pretty underwhelming. Lots of plot holes & things mentioned numerous times without reaching a conclusion/ explanation as to why. Ending was good but definitely needed to tie up more elements of the story.
March 1, 2023
If I had a nickel for every book I've read this year following a journalist, a mystery, an affair and a plot twist lesbian villain. I'd have two nickels.
Which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.
Which isn't a lot but it's weird that it happened twice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2020
I found this book disappointing to say the least. The three stars are given due to the final 30% of the book, where the pace finally picks up, and the storyline actually comes together.
I spent the rest of the book wondering whether or not I was supposed to be reading a psychological thriller, a supernatural horror, chick-lit, romance or mystery. Of course it’s fine to inject a little of each genre into a novel here and there to give it a little more depth, but I expected the transitions to be seamless. I felt as if the author didn’t do this, and the switches between the main plot, the romance aspect, the bestie banter, and eerie supernatural suggestions felt stilted and chunky, as if only each section could be addressed in blocks, rather than integrated within the main storyline.
The final 30% of the book, however, managed to pick up the pace and focus on the actual premise of what the book has supposedly been building to. A bit of a twist, but nothing too major.
All in all, this book wasn’t for me. But that’s just my opinion, and you may devour it in hours!
I spent the rest of the book wondering whether or not I was supposed to be reading a psychological thriller, a supernatural horror, chick-lit, romance or mystery. Of course it’s fine to inject a little of each genre into a novel here and there to give it a little more depth, but I expected the transitions to be seamless. I felt as if the author didn’t do this, and the switches between the main plot, the romance aspect, the bestie banter, and eerie supernatural suggestions felt stilted and chunky, as if only each section could be addressed in blocks, rather than integrated within the main storyline.
The final 30% of the book, however, managed to pick up the pace and focus on the actual premise of what the book has supposedly been building to. A bit of a twist, but nothing too major.
All in all, this book wasn’t for me. But that’s just my opinion, and you may devour it in hours!
August 1, 2020
“Paper Dolls” is a clever, twisted thriller, laced with dark humour, gripping suspense, shocking reveals and a cast of engaging characters. Lisa Bradley’s novel is definite one of the debuts of the year and I can’t wait for more from her!
Leah is the former editor of a prominent local newspaper, who chose to run a front-page story on a missing white teenager called Hope. On the same day, Tilly a black, disadvantaged teenager from a rough neighbourhood also went missing. Tilly was considered a runaway and as the police were not taking the case so seriously, Leah ran the story deep within the pages of the paper. When Hope was found two days later and Tilly remained missing, the latter’s family sued the paper, claiming that their daughter’s disappearance was buried in the paper because of racism. Nearly 20 years later, Leah appears in a Netflix documentary on institutionalised racism in journalism and acknowledges the decision she made. Shortly after the documentary airs, Leah starts receiving paper dolls and someone keeps lighting candles in her garden or within her home. With a constant feeling of being watched, Leah starts to fear for her and her family’s safety. But Leah has suffered from mental health issues in the past and not everyone believes that there is really a threat... Is someone really out for revenge or is Leah suffering from delusions?
“Paper Dolls” is an expertly crafted thriller. Bradley manages to create an atmosphere of genuine paranoia and confusion. I found myself immediately believing that there was a threat to Leah and her family, but there were moments where I questioned whether she was carrying out these things against herself. I was kept guessing throughout the entirety of the novel and the mark of an exceptional thriller for me is exactly that. There are plenty of moments of edge-of-your seat tension, but also lots of episodes of humour interwoven. The relationship between Leah and her best friend Bunty is wonderfully written and there are some laugh out loud moments between the two. Bunty provides some much appreciated comedy amongst the mental anguish that Leah is subjected to. This really helps create an authentic atmosphere and “Paper Dolls” is all the more unsettling because of the plausibility, which is predominantly down to the intricacies of the human relationships Bradley creates here. Similarly, Bradley writes exceptionally well about Leah’s mental state and I found myself thrown into her anxiety and fear, which helped me physically feel the stress and the tension that she does. Again, I found this made “Paper Dolls” all the more readable and I found myself reading well into the night, as I needed to read just one more chapter. Building to an exhilarating ending with multiple shock twists, this is a thriller that genuinely thrills!
I also found that the narrative was full of engaging characters, who helped propel the mystery and intrigue around Leah’s harassment, whilst also providing tension in other ways. The relationship that Leah forms with her neighbour Sam is an interesting subplot and I found myself hoping that aside from discovering and overcoming her tormentor and personal guilt, Leah would find romance with Sam. The true nature of Sam came as a complete surprise and was a gripping twist in the plot. Leah’s husband Chris was also well written, as I took an early dislike to him, only to find that this was a clever piece of misdirection and it also transpired that not all is as it seemed with him too. As mentioned, Bunty provides much of the humour and I found that she quickly became my favourite character. I loved her brash, brassiness and her “no f*ck” attitude. However, this didn’t stop me having certain suspicions about her and Bradley plants enough red herrings to question whether Bunty is the friend to Leah that she proclaims to be. Leah’s son Luke is an integral character within the narrative, particularly in relation to Leah and her relationship with him. I really enjoyed reading the banter between mother and son, which established their relationship more along the lines of friends in their interactions. This blurring of the lines helped cement a strong bond between mother and son, which heightened the suspense around Leah’s anxiety towards Luke’s wellbeing. This brings me to Leah, who I found a really interesting, complex and appealing heroine. I liked the fact that she was equal parts vulnerable and strong, helping to cast shadows of doubt over her mental state whilst not alienating readers from her. Bradley also tackled the notions of institutionalised racism within the media very adeptly through Leah. The fact that Leah accepted that she had made a mistake by not running Tilly’s story beside Hope’s helped demonstrate the personable accountability, taking away any racial motivation from the decision made. The fact that the role of race in the media is explored makes “Paper Dolls” a very timely and apropos novel, as we discuss notions of institutionalised racism in the real world.
“Paper Dolls” is a fantastically entertaining debut from Lisa Bradley, who establishes herself a powerful new voice in the genre. With depth and substance, this is not one to miss!
Leah is the former editor of a prominent local newspaper, who chose to run a front-page story on a missing white teenager called Hope. On the same day, Tilly a black, disadvantaged teenager from a rough neighbourhood also went missing. Tilly was considered a runaway and as the police were not taking the case so seriously, Leah ran the story deep within the pages of the paper. When Hope was found two days later and Tilly remained missing, the latter’s family sued the paper, claiming that their daughter’s disappearance was buried in the paper because of racism. Nearly 20 years later, Leah appears in a Netflix documentary on institutionalised racism in journalism and acknowledges the decision she made. Shortly after the documentary airs, Leah starts receiving paper dolls and someone keeps lighting candles in her garden or within her home. With a constant feeling of being watched, Leah starts to fear for her and her family’s safety. But Leah has suffered from mental health issues in the past and not everyone believes that there is really a threat... Is someone really out for revenge or is Leah suffering from delusions?
“Paper Dolls” is an expertly crafted thriller. Bradley manages to create an atmosphere of genuine paranoia and confusion. I found myself immediately believing that there was a threat to Leah and her family, but there were moments where I questioned whether she was carrying out these things against herself. I was kept guessing throughout the entirety of the novel and the mark of an exceptional thriller for me is exactly that. There are plenty of moments of edge-of-your seat tension, but also lots of episodes of humour interwoven. The relationship between Leah and her best friend Bunty is wonderfully written and there are some laugh out loud moments between the two. Bunty provides some much appreciated comedy amongst the mental anguish that Leah is subjected to. This really helps create an authentic atmosphere and “Paper Dolls” is all the more unsettling because of the plausibility, which is predominantly down to the intricacies of the human relationships Bradley creates here. Similarly, Bradley writes exceptionally well about Leah’s mental state and I found myself thrown into her anxiety and fear, which helped me physically feel the stress and the tension that she does. Again, I found this made “Paper Dolls” all the more readable and I found myself reading well into the night, as I needed to read just one more chapter. Building to an exhilarating ending with multiple shock twists, this is a thriller that genuinely thrills!
I also found that the narrative was full of engaging characters, who helped propel the mystery and intrigue around Leah’s harassment, whilst also providing tension in other ways. The relationship that Leah forms with her neighbour Sam is an interesting subplot and I found myself hoping that aside from discovering and overcoming her tormentor and personal guilt, Leah would find romance with Sam. The true nature of Sam came as a complete surprise and was a gripping twist in the plot. Leah’s husband Chris was also well written, as I took an early dislike to him, only to find that this was a clever piece of misdirection and it also transpired that not all is as it seemed with him too. As mentioned, Bunty provides much of the humour and I found that she quickly became my favourite character. I loved her brash, brassiness and her “no f*ck” attitude. However, this didn’t stop me having certain suspicions about her and Bradley plants enough red herrings to question whether Bunty is the friend to Leah that she proclaims to be. Leah’s son Luke is an integral character within the narrative, particularly in relation to Leah and her relationship with him. I really enjoyed reading the banter between mother and son, which established their relationship more along the lines of friends in their interactions. This blurring of the lines helped cement a strong bond between mother and son, which heightened the suspense around Leah’s anxiety towards Luke’s wellbeing. This brings me to Leah, who I found a really interesting, complex and appealing heroine. I liked the fact that she was equal parts vulnerable and strong, helping to cast shadows of doubt over her mental state whilst not alienating readers from her. Bradley also tackled the notions of institutionalised racism within the media very adeptly through Leah. The fact that Leah accepted that she had made a mistake by not running Tilly’s story beside Hope’s helped demonstrate the personable accountability, taking away any racial motivation from the decision made. The fact that the role of race in the media is explored makes “Paper Dolls” a very timely and apropos novel, as we discuss notions of institutionalised racism in the real world.
“Paper Dolls” is a fantastically entertaining debut from Lisa Bradley, who establishes herself a powerful new voice in the genre. With depth and substance, this is not one to miss!
July 5, 2020
15 years ago, Leah Wallace made a decision that has come back to haunt her: When two girls, Hope and Tilly, are both reported missing, Leah chooses to place Hope on the front page, and Tilly as a small mention on page 18. Hope was found two days later. Tilly was never found.
Branded a racist for reporting on the missing middle-class White girl, and not the Black girl from a rougher part of town, Leah's career comes to an end and 15 years later she is a housewife, a failed journalist, and still consumed with guilt over her decision to not give Tilly the attention she felt she deserved. Leah has never forgiven herself for her (possible) role in Tilly not having been found ... and it would seem, neither has somebody else.
Reminiscent of the candles Leah lights in remembrance of Tilly at her local parish, Leah begins to find burning candles coupled with paper dolls - cutouts made from the newspaper with Hope's face on the front page. Somebody is trying to send Leah a message, and hold her accountable for her mistake 15 years previously.
All in all, I found this book to be a satisfying read. I wouldn't say that it is a candidate for "thriller of the year", but it keeps you interested and the story moves quickly. I did, however, think that there were slightly too many plot points that just didn't add up. It felt as if certain chapters were written with the purpose of meeting a word count, rather than for progressing the plot, and as a result, the main action of the book all felt rushed into the last 20% of the book.
The characterisation of Bradley's main characters (Leah, her son Luke, Leah's friend Bunty, Leah's husband Chris) all seemed consistent and real, and I felt invested in these characters and their relationships. However, other characters (I won't mention names because of spoilers) seemed to do a complete 180 for no apparent reason other than to neatly tie off Leah's moral conundrums. If the author intended for this to be some kind of commentary, I don't think it worked; it just felt a bit like incomplete characterisation.
The ending of the book also seemed to happen in fits and starts - there were a couple of times when I thought the book could easily (and effectively) be wrapped up, but then a potential climax fizzled out and left you clinging on for a few more chapters. When the book did end, though, it was an ending I didn't see coming, and it was a good one!
All in all, I think that Lisa Bradley has all the right tools in her arsenal and utilised them relatively well. I enjoyed this book, and Bradley's voice was compelling and easy to read, making it easy and pleasurable for me to pick it up when I had a few spare minutes. This book suffered slightly from uneven pacing and (in my opinion) incomplete characterisation, but the essence of the story was strong (it also suffered from some shoddy proofreading, with spelling and grammatical errors littering the book, but I can't be sure whether this is just because the book still needs to go through a final check before publication, so I have tried to not let this colour my review of the book itself). Overall, a promising new voice to the thriller genre, and I would like to see more of Bradley's writing in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley UK and Quercus Books for the ARC of this book.
Branded a racist for reporting on the missing middle-class White girl, and not the Black girl from a rougher part of town, Leah's career comes to an end and 15 years later she is a housewife, a failed journalist, and still consumed with guilt over her decision to not give Tilly the attention she felt she deserved. Leah has never forgiven herself for her (possible) role in Tilly not having been found ... and it would seem, neither has somebody else.
Reminiscent of the candles Leah lights in remembrance of Tilly at her local parish, Leah begins to find burning candles coupled with paper dolls - cutouts made from the newspaper with Hope's face on the front page. Somebody is trying to send Leah a message, and hold her accountable for her mistake 15 years previously.
All in all, I found this book to be a satisfying read. I wouldn't say that it is a candidate for "thriller of the year", but it keeps you interested and the story moves quickly. I did, however, think that there were slightly too many plot points that just didn't add up. It felt as if certain chapters were written with the purpose of meeting a word count, rather than for progressing the plot, and as a result, the main action of the book all felt rushed into the last 20% of the book.
The characterisation of Bradley's main characters (Leah, her son Luke, Leah's friend Bunty, Leah's husband Chris) all seemed consistent and real, and I felt invested in these characters and their relationships. However, other characters (I won't mention names because of spoilers) seemed to do a complete 180 for no apparent reason other than to neatly tie off Leah's moral conundrums. If the author intended for this to be some kind of commentary, I don't think it worked; it just felt a bit like incomplete characterisation.
The ending of the book also seemed to happen in fits and starts - there were a couple of times when I thought the book could easily (and effectively) be wrapped up, but then a potential climax fizzled out and left you clinging on for a few more chapters. When the book did end, though, it was an ending I didn't see coming, and it was a good one!
All in all, I think that Lisa Bradley has all the right tools in her arsenal and utilised them relatively well. I enjoyed this book, and Bradley's voice was compelling and easy to read, making it easy and pleasurable for me to pick it up when I had a few spare minutes. This book suffered slightly from uneven pacing and (in my opinion) incomplete characterisation, but the essence of the story was strong (it also suffered from some shoddy proofreading, with spelling and grammatical errors littering the book, but I can't be sure whether this is just because the book still needs to go through a final check before publication, so I have tried to not let this colour my review of the book itself). Overall, a promising new voice to the thriller genre, and I would like to see more of Bradley's writing in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley UK and Quercus Books for the ARC of this book.
December 23, 2020
.# Paper Dolls # Netgalley
Leah Wallis as finally got her dream job as editors of a regional newspaper. It’s something she’s worked so hard to achieve. A story of a young missing girl COPD in Hope who’s from a really good family. So Leah runs this on page one, also another young girl as gone missing Tilly who from the wrong side of the tracks a troubled background. A social housing estate although because of Tilly background she runs Tilly story in page 16 of the same paper. I know it’s only a novel but I was so immersed in the book I found I got annoyed with Leah running Tilly being missing on page 16 while Hope was run on page one. It struck me of how many times in true life that this must happen m, I know the police always put someone from the wrong side of the track, little consideration as they would a girl from what’ they call the right side of the track. They and newspapers throw everything into it and more if they ciukf. Yet take anyone missing from the wrong side it’s much slower abd treated so differently. It’s nit actually fair no young girl can help what dude if the track they were born into. Surely both girls should be given exactly the same.. However it’s a general misconception that a child born in the wrong side of the track society itself forms that opinion. We are really surrounded with authority that seems to care more based on where you are born and raised that seems to matter mostly. With this book that really hits hone of society pre judge people. So let’s be honest that’s exactly what society did with Tilly now years later Leah is questioned as to why Tilly only got a small mention cone back from that investigation. Then yes I do reverting it now it’s too late.
Leah Wallis as finally got her dream job as editors of a regional newspaper. It’s something she’s worked so hard to achieve. A story of a young missing girl COPD in Hope who’s from a really good family. So Leah runs this on page one, also another young girl as gone missing Tilly who from the wrong side of the tracks a troubled background. A social housing estate although because of Tilly background she runs Tilly story in page 16 of the same paper. I know it’s only a novel but I was so immersed in the book I found I got annoyed with Leah running Tilly being missing on page 16 while Hope was run on page one. It struck me of how many times in true life that this must happen m, I know the police always put someone from the wrong side of the track, little consideration as they would a girl from what’ they call the right side of the track. They and newspapers throw everything into it and more if they ciukf. Yet take anyone missing from the wrong side it’s much slower abd treated so differently. It’s nit actually fair no young girl can help what dude if the track they were born into. Surely both girls should be given exactly the same.. However it’s a general misconception that a child born in the wrong side of the track society itself forms that opinion. We are really surrounded with authority that seems to care more based on where you are born and raised that seems to matter mostly. With this book that really hits hone of society pre judge people. So let’s be honest that’s exactly what society did with Tilly now years later Leah is questioned as to why Tilly only got a small mention cone back from that investigation. Then yes I do reverting it now it’s too late.
July 6, 2020
Paper dolls by Lisa Bradley
When 2 teenage girls are missing, Leah Wallace a newspaper editor documents missing girl Hope on the front page and gives Tilly, who is believe to have just ran off from home, a small article on page 18. Hope was found quickly as a result of the article as she was spotted in the train station, whereas Tilly was never found. Leah was heavily criticised for her handling of the articles of the missing girls and was blamed by Tilly’s parents for her not being found, as a result Leah resigns from her position as editor. Throughout the whole book you can see that this massively affected Leah and she wanted to make amends for her actions.
A few years later Leah features in a Netflix documentary about the missing girls and strange things soon start to happen, candles lit in the garden, paper dolls being sent to her house and ouija boards spelling Tilly’s name, just to name a few. Leah soon becomes paranoid and people around her think she is making it Up.
The whole way through I kept changing my mind about who was responsible for the strange things happening to Leah, the ending was such a shock twist that I didn’t see it coming at all! At one point I actually started to believe that Leah was having a breakdown as was doing all this crazy stuff to herself. The book is so well written and I the ending isn’t rushed. It’s a page turner from start to finish and I couldn’t wait to find out the truth about what really happened to Tilly and who is terrorising Leah as a result.
I would definitely recommend Paper Dolls - it’s become one of my favourite ever reads!!
When 2 teenage girls are missing, Leah Wallace a newspaper editor documents missing girl Hope on the front page and gives Tilly, who is believe to have just ran off from home, a small article on page 18. Hope was found quickly as a result of the article as she was spotted in the train station, whereas Tilly was never found. Leah was heavily criticised for her handling of the articles of the missing girls and was blamed by Tilly’s parents for her not being found, as a result Leah resigns from her position as editor. Throughout the whole book you can see that this massively affected Leah and she wanted to make amends for her actions.
A few years later Leah features in a Netflix documentary about the missing girls and strange things soon start to happen, candles lit in the garden, paper dolls being sent to her house and ouija boards spelling Tilly’s name, just to name a few. Leah soon becomes paranoid and people around her think she is making it Up.
The whole way through I kept changing my mind about who was responsible for the strange things happening to Leah, the ending was such a shock twist that I didn’t see it coming at all! At one point I actually started to believe that Leah was having a breakdown as was doing all this crazy stuff to herself. The book is so well written and I the ending isn’t rushed. It’s a page turner from start to finish and I couldn’t wait to find out the truth about what really happened to Tilly and who is terrorising Leah as a result.
I would definitely recommend Paper Dolls - it’s become one of my favourite ever reads!!
August 8, 2020
Ahh, Paper Dolls. In my top three reads of this year, hands down! I’ve loved this book so much, but I knew I would as soon as I read the blurb. Definitely my cup of tea! If you love the feeling of good-book-goosebumps, or whether you’re a fan of reading late into the night because you simply can’t tear yourself away from the pages, get your hands on this – an experience like no other, I guarantee.
This book has seriously set a new standard for the thriller genre. My god, I don’t think I’ve ever read through a thriller as quickly as I have with this one before! It’s one of those books where you want to read it through again as soon as you finish to see if you can spot the things you missed out on before! Superb, relatable characters and such a mysterious backstory make this book one of the best of its kind. As a big fan of thrillers, new books have to be something pretty special to get up in my top three, but this one has wormed its way up there effortlessly. Be prepared to unhinge your jaw with shock, fill up your heart with emotion and feel that chill you only get with such a frightening, captivating read. This book deserves a hell of a lot more than five stars – Lisa, you are the Queen of Thriller! 🙌
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2020/08...
This book has seriously set a new standard for the thriller genre. My god, I don’t think I’ve ever read through a thriller as quickly as I have with this one before! It’s one of those books where you want to read it through again as soon as you finish to see if you can spot the things you missed out on before! Superb, relatable characters and such a mysterious backstory make this book one of the best of its kind. As a big fan of thrillers, new books have to be something pretty special to get up in my top three, but this one has wormed its way up there effortlessly. Be prepared to unhinge your jaw with shock, fill up your heart with emotion and feel that chill you only get with such a frightening, captivating read. This book deserves a hell of a lot more than five stars – Lisa, you are the Queen of Thriller! 🙌
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2020/08...
August 31, 2020
I am officially awarding this my no*1 book of the year... I'd say so far but its gonna take alot to out do this one!
Entirely gripping I was on the edge of my seat from the prologue and didn't want to move a muscle until I'd turned the very last page.
I thought I had it all figured out numerous times throughout but each time Lisa Bradley threw a spanner in the works and threw me up in the air with it.
The characters were believable, extremely well written and most in all relatable! The actual character development was fantastic also.
I LOVED the storyline and plot, it's so nice to read a thriller that actually has a 'new' and unique plot. At times it took a chilly tone which really had me turning the pages even faster. The constant quite eerie undertone was so cleverly woven in you didn't actually realise until you took in a breathe you hadn't realised you'd been holding in.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style, you could feel the suspense, anxiousness and tension all the way through... I LOVED IT!
What more can I say without spoiling it for everyone... an AMAZING thriller with plenty of twists and turns that at times will leave your heart racing.
A huge 5*
Massive thanks to netgalley and Quercus Books for the ARC.
Entirely gripping I was on the edge of my seat from the prologue and didn't want to move a muscle until I'd turned the very last page.
I thought I had it all figured out numerous times throughout but each time Lisa Bradley threw a spanner in the works and threw me up in the air with it.
The characters were believable, extremely well written and most in all relatable! The actual character development was fantastic also.
I LOVED the storyline and plot, it's so nice to read a thriller that actually has a 'new' and unique plot. At times it took a chilly tone which really had me turning the pages even faster. The constant quite eerie undertone was so cleverly woven in you didn't actually realise until you took in a breathe you hadn't realised you'd been holding in.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style, you could feel the suspense, anxiousness and tension all the way through... I LOVED IT!
What more can I say without spoiling it for everyone... an AMAZING thriller with plenty of twists and turns that at times will leave your heart racing.
A huge 5*
Massive thanks to netgalley and Quercus Books for the ARC.
October 4, 2020
Excellent debut novel by Lisa Bradley. The story of 2 missing girls and the story of Hope (white and privileged) over Tilly (black and less privileged) highlighting the racial differences still prevalent in today’s society. With Leah as the Editor in charge of choosing which story appeared on the front page of the newspaper, the publicity stops 2 friends escaping together. Leah’s love for her son is quite integral to the whole story and knows no abounds. Her friend Elizabeth known as ‘Bunty’ shows true character, is honest and genuinely tries to be there for Leah. Leah’s husband Chris, a vet, loves Leah, but, he cannot deal with Leah’s guilt of not doing more to find Tilly and Leah trying to deal with these ghosts of her past. There are constant links throughout the book and the appearance of cut out ‘paper dolls’ from newspapers, following a documentary that Leah appears in, sets the tone for the whole novel. Keep a look out for Sam, Chris & Leah’s neighbour, as all is not what it seems. The friendship between Hannah and Charlie, for me, was a little suspect at the beginning, but, when you reach the final chapters, it becomes very clear. I won’t give the ending away, so please read for yourself. Only question to ask, when will there be a second book ?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2020
What a fabulous, thriller of a read!
Leah is the main character, a journalist who left her job in shame and who now lives with her husband and son and depression. There are missing girls, guilt, sexual obsession and friendship, all wound up in this tense page turner of a psychological thriller. It's such a fabulous read.
Not only did it have thrills, I also learnt things, such as the Kendo method of tidying......mmmm.....thanks, I think! There's a few hours I won't get back, having gone off and tried it! haha.
I loved the fact that Leah has a cross trainer in her garage that "she never actually used, just sat in her gym gear eating pork pies and watching glee" definitely my type of protagonist! And, despite the dark, thrilling, 'heart in your mouth' storyline, there's some great humour.
It's such a fabulous read that kept me hooked and guessing throughout and I read in one sitting.
I loved it!
5*
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Quercus books and the author, Lisa Bradley - many congratulations and can't wait to read your next one!
Leah is the main character, a journalist who left her job in shame and who now lives with her husband and son and depression. There are missing girls, guilt, sexual obsession and friendship, all wound up in this tense page turner of a psychological thriller. It's such a fabulous read.
Not only did it have thrills, I also learnt things, such as the Kendo method of tidying......mmmm.....thanks, I think! There's a few hours I won't get back, having gone off and tried it! haha.
I loved the fact that Leah has a cross trainer in her garage that "she never actually used, just sat in her gym gear eating pork pies and watching glee" definitely my type of protagonist! And, despite the dark, thrilling, 'heart in your mouth' storyline, there's some great humour.
It's such a fabulous read that kept me hooked and guessing throughout and I read in one sitting.
I loved it!
5*
Thanks so much to NetGalley, Quercus books and the author, Lisa Bradley - many congratulations and can't wait to read your next one!
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