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The Lucky Ones
They were supposed to die.
Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed.
Now grown, the anniversary of their families’ deaths approaches and the Fallen Oaks Five receive letters of warning: the killers are still out there and they aren’t finished with them.
In a race against time and murderers who remain both faceless and nameless, the Five must return to their old homes in order to piece together the events of a night they’d all rather forget. Their old town is riddled with secrets, and every person they come into contact with is a suspect. With everything at stake, can the Five solve the mystery and finally learn the truth about the night that cost them everything? Or will they find themselves victims of a fate they should’ve succumbed to years ago?
Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed.
Now grown, the anniversary of their families’ deaths approaches and the Fallen Oaks Five receive letters of warning: the killers are still out there and they aren’t finished with them.
In a race against time and murderers who remain both faceless and nameless, the Five must return to their old homes in order to piece together the events of a night they’d all rather forget. Their old town is riddled with secrets, and every person they come into contact with is a suspect. With everything at stake, can the Five solve the mystery and finally learn the truth about the night that cost them everything? Or will they find themselves victims of a fate they should’ve succumbed to years ago?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2020
1685 people are currently reading
3629 people want to read
About the author
Kiersten Modglin
56 books14.9k followersKIERSTEN MODGLIN is a #1 bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books have sold over two million copies and been translated into multiple languages. Kiersten is a member of International Thriller Writers, Novelists, Inc., and the Alliance of Independent Authors. She is a KDP Select All-Star and a recipient of ThrillerFix's Best Psychological Thriller Award, Suspense Magazine's Best Book of 2021 Award, a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Suspense, and a 2022 Silver Falchion for Best Overall Book of 2021. Kiersten grew up in rural western Kentucky and later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where she now lives with her family. Kiersten's readers across the world lovingly refer to her as "KMod." A binge-watching expert, psychology fanatic, and indoor enthusiast, Kiersten enjoys rainy days spent with her favorite people and evenings with her nose in a book.
CONNECT WITH KIERSTEN:
➜ WEBSITE: kierstenmodglinauthor.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/nlsignup
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ KMOD SQUAD: facebook.com/groups/kmodsquad
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ THREADS: threads.net/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TEXT ALERTS: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/textalerts
Kiersten Modglin may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ kierstenmodglinauthor.com/events
CONNECT WITH KIERSTEN:
➜ WEBSITE: kierstenmodglinauthor.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/nlsignup
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ KMOD SQUAD: facebook.com/groups/kmodsquad
➜ INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ THREADS: threads.net/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@kierstenmodglinauthor
➜ TEXT ALERTS: kierstenmodglinauthor.com/textalerts
Kiersten Modglin may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ kierstenmodglinauthor.com/events
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 523 reviews
December 20, 2021
The one thing that Kiersten Modglin is great at is creating unique, twisty thrillers. This one worked for the most part, but as with the book I just finished previous to this one, the last chapter felt totally unnecessary and it was just one "twist" too far. I felt like the book was complete and then everything gets confused again, and not in a good way.
The premise of this novel is amazing and what drew me in--one night five years previously an entire subdivision of people were murdered. The only ones who escaped were five of the children who ran into the woods. They are known as the Fallen Oaks Five, and this book is mostly told from the POV of survivor Ellie, who is caring for her younger sister Cassie. At the beginning the five each receive a letter saying that the killer is not done. They all gather together to go back to the town to see if they can figure out what is going on.
As is common with Modglin, there are twists on top of twists. Some of them surprised me, and others seemed a bit far fetched. Overall when things are solved the motivations for the killer(s) is pretty underwhelming and a stretch. I listened to this as an audiobook, which was very fast paced and kept me interested to listen to find out what was going to happen.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
The premise of this novel is amazing and what drew me in--one night five years previously an entire subdivision of people were murdered. The only ones who escaped were five of the children who ran into the woods. They are known as the Fallen Oaks Five, and this book is mostly told from the POV of survivor Ellie, who is caring for her younger sister Cassie. At the beginning the five each receive a letter saying that the killer is not done. They all gather together to go back to the town to see if they can figure out what is going on.
As is common with Modglin, there are twists on top of twists. Some of them surprised me, and others seemed a bit far fetched. Overall when things are solved the motivations for the killer(s) is pretty underwhelming and a stretch. I listened to this as an audiobook, which was very fast paced and kept me interested to listen to find out what was going to happen.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
February 5, 2022
Tonight, the quiet, evening peace of a local neighborhood will be ripped to shreds. Most residents will never see the light of day again. Butchered in their own beds. Miraculously, five children survived the onslaught.
Now, years later on the anniversary of that horrific night the survivors receive a letter. A reminder that the person responsible for killing their families has never been caught. Jolted back into reality, they face some tough questions. Are their lives in danger? Can they just ignore this turn and keep moving forward? Or do they need to confront the past?
Once again, this reminded me of those slasher movies where you are yelling “don’t go into the basement!”. In this case I was screaming, “don’t go back to your hometown!” I mean seriously!? Unfortunately my book characters rarely (if ever) listen to me. Oh well…I warned them!💁🏻♀️
This was my second read by this highly popular author and once again I came away disappointed. Most of the book (audio) was just meh…then the ending simply left me shaking my head….really!? Sometimes you have to realize you don’t ‘click’ with a certain authors’ style. Sadly, I’ve come to that conclusion here.
There are many positive five star reviews for this book and many of her previous works, just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio.
Now, years later on the anniversary of that horrific night the survivors receive a letter. A reminder that the person responsible for killing their families has never been caught. Jolted back into reality, they face some tough questions. Are their lives in danger? Can they just ignore this turn and keep moving forward? Or do they need to confront the past?
Once again, this reminded me of those slasher movies where you are yelling “don’t go into the basement!”. In this case I was screaming, “don’t go back to your hometown!” I mean seriously!? Unfortunately my book characters rarely (if ever) listen to me. Oh well…I warned them!💁🏻♀️
This was my second read by this highly popular author and once again I came away disappointed. Most of the book (audio) was just meh…then the ending simply left me shaking my head….really!? Sometimes you have to realize you don’t ‘click’ with a certain authors’ style. Sadly, I’ve come to that conclusion here.
There are many positive five star reviews for this book and many of her previous works, just not for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio.
December 31, 2021
They were supposed to die.
That line grabbed me right there. Ominous, foreboding, and compelling.
Five years ago, there was a massacre. People were murdered in their beds. Only five survived - all children who are now linked, dubbed the "Fallen Oaks Five. I don't know about you but that is not something I would like to have in common with someone.
Now grown, they have all tried to get on with their lives, leaving behind that horrible night and the pain that was left in its wake. Then the Fallen Oaks Five begin receiving letters letting them know that it's not over yet! So, they return to the scene of the crime, and are reunited with the demons of their past.
This is a twisty tale, but it never fully wowed me. The pacing was nice, and it kept everything moving but when the reveal occurred, it felt more like a whimper than a bang. But I did enjoy it and I enjoyed the narrator as well. But for some reason, even though I knew they were young adults, at times it felt as if they were all much older. I don't know if it was the narrator's voice or the author trying to show how tragedy matured them, but I had to remind myself that they were much younger.
This book begins on the strong side which grabbed my attention. There are quite a few twists, a few secrets, and quite a few characters. I appreciated that that author created very distinct characters and it was easy to keep track of them and nothing was ever confusing.
Overall, an enjoyable book even though it did quite pack the punch I was looking for.
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
That line grabbed me right there. Ominous, foreboding, and compelling.
Five years ago, there was a massacre. People were murdered in their beds. Only five survived - all children who are now linked, dubbed the "Fallen Oaks Five. I don't know about you but that is not something I would like to have in common with someone.
Now grown, they have all tried to get on with their lives, leaving behind that horrible night and the pain that was left in its wake. Then the Fallen Oaks Five begin receiving letters letting them know that it's not over yet! So, they return to the scene of the crime, and are reunited with the demons of their past.
This is a twisty tale, but it never fully wowed me. The pacing was nice, and it kept everything moving but when the reveal occurred, it felt more like a whimper than a bang. But I did enjoy it and I enjoyed the narrator as well. But for some reason, even though I knew they were young adults, at times it felt as if they were all much older. I don't know if it was the narrator's voice or the author trying to show how tragedy matured them, but I had to remind myself that they were much younger.
This book begins on the strong side which grabbed my attention. There are quite a few twists, a few secrets, and quite a few characters. I appreciated that that author created very distinct characters and it was easy to keep track of them and nothing was ever confusing.
Overall, an enjoyable book even though it did quite pack the punch I was looking for.
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 11, 2022
Ever heard a T-minus countdown in movies during rocket lift-offs? My rating for this book went through a similar countdown in my head.
Wanna know why? Read on.
Story:
As you can see from my “rating countdown” the start is fantastic. Right from the very first paragraph, the book creates an excitement in your mind that sustains for quite a long time. And then the bizarre explanations and senseless actions start making an appearance and the excitement turns to bewilderment. The reason for the murders is so stupid that I can’t even get my head around it. Everything is way too exaggerated, many situations are too coincidental and the justifications for people’s actions are simply unbelievable.
What further irked me was the writing style. A typical conversation between characters goes something like this: (paraphrasing to avoid spoilers)
OR
You get me? If every “character 1” could reveal the answers when asked the very first time, the book might have been completed in a hundred or so pages. It becomes so repetitive after a point.
I have read one more book of hers prior to this, and her modus operandi in both seem to be similar – have characters who know plenty of secrets but won’t reveal anything. The other book I had read was called “our Little Secret”. So I was somewhat more prepared for secrets there. But in this book, they kept irritating me rather than intriguing me.
I understand that this author is known for throwing un-guessable twists. Every positive review praises the twists in her stories. I agree with that to a certain extent because there is no logical way on earth that you could arrive at such plot turnarounds. But twists have to still make sense in the logical flow of the plot, and that doesn’t seem to happen in this book.
I heard the 6 hour long audiobook as narrated by Linda Jones. She was a great narrator and her performance helps a lot. Honestly, her voice doesn’t suit the age of the character she was voicing. The character was supposed to be 22 but her voice sound much more mature. This is just a minor point of feedback and shouldn’t take away from the quality of her performance. The audiobook goes by quickly so if you still feel tempted to give this book a try, do let it be by audio.
A fun game to play while listening to the audiobook: Count the number of times Ellie’s character says “Truth be told.” Never have I rolled my eyes at the phrase so much!
My thanks to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Lucky Ones”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook. Sorry this didn’t work out better.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
0 – 20% - 5 stars
21% – 40% - 4 stars
41% – 60% - 3 stars
61% – 80% - 2 stars.
81% - last chapter – 1 star.
Epilogue – 0 stars. (If negative stars are possible, then -10 stars.)
Wanna know why? Read on.
Story:
(This content is obviously taken from the initial chapters of the book and hence it will sound quite interesting and appealing.)
Five years ago, the residents of a neighbourhood named Gerbera, in the small town of Fallen Oaks, were brutally murdered in a night-time attack by unknown assailants. Only 5 teenagers survived. They weren’t friends with each other prior to that night but being the only survivors left without anyone else in the world bonded them together. Now, they have all received a warning letter – the killer is coming for them again. Will they be able to escape a second time around?
The story is narrated from the 1st person point of view of one of the survivors, Ellie.
As you can see from my “rating countdown” the start is fantastic. Right from the very first paragraph, the book creates an excitement in your mind that sustains for quite a long time. And then the bizarre explanations and senseless actions start making an appearance and the excitement turns to bewilderment. The reason for the murders is so stupid that I can’t even get my head around it. Everything is way too exaggerated, many situations are too coincidental and the justifications for people’s actions are simply unbelievable.
What further irked me was the writing style. A typical conversation between characters goes something like this: (paraphrasing to avoid spoilers)
Character 1: “You can't be here.”
Character 2: “Why?”
Character 1: “You just cant.”
Character 2: “But why? Tell me.”
Character 1: “I can't tell you.”
OR
Character 1: “You don't know what happened.”
Character 2: “Tell me what happened.”
Character 1: “I can't. I'm not the right person.”
Character 2: “Who can tell me then?”
Character 1: “I can't tell you.”
You get me? If every “character 1” could reveal the answers when asked the very first time, the book might have been completed in a hundred or so pages. It becomes so repetitive after a point.
I have read one more book of hers prior to this, and her modus operandi in both seem to be similar – have characters who know plenty of secrets but won’t reveal anything. The other book I had read was called “our Little Secret”. So I was somewhat more prepared for secrets there. But in this book, they kept irritating me rather than intriguing me.
I understand that this author is known for throwing un-guessable twists. Every positive review praises the twists in her stories. I agree with that to a certain extent because there is no logical way on earth that you could arrive at such plot turnarounds. But twists have to still make sense in the logical flow of the plot, and that doesn’t seem to happen in this book.
I heard the 6 hour long audiobook as narrated by Linda Jones. She was a great narrator and her performance helps a lot. Honestly, her voice doesn’t suit the age of the character she was voicing. The character was supposed to be 22 but her voice sound much more mature. This is just a minor point of feedback and shouldn’t take away from the quality of her performance. The audiobook goes by quickly so if you still feel tempted to give this book a try, do let it be by audio.
A fun game to play while listening to the audiobook: Count the number of times Ellie’s character says “Truth be told.” Never have I rolled my eyes at the phrase so much!
My thanks to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the ALC of “The Lucky Ones”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the audiobook. Sorry this didn’t work out better.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
January 8, 2022
EXCERPT: On the dingy brown welcome mat, lay a crisp, white envelope. There was no writing on the outside. As I picked it up, two white daisies fell out of the top, landing in my hand. They'd been crushed by the paper, their petals wilted. I had a sickening feeling filling my belly as I closed the door and flipped both deadbolts. Everything in me told me to throw the letter away, toss it aside without reading it and never think about it again. But I couldn't. The sick, paranoid part of my brain had to know. I turned it over, looking at the unsealed part. What secrets did this letter hold?
I stared at it, blinking endlessly as my mind twisted and turned with every dreadful scenario - human teeth, fingernails, a court summons, photographs of myself taken by a stalker, death threats. As I finally reached for the paper, willing myself to stop thinking and just read it, my hands shook. I pulled the paper out. No teeth fell to the floor. I turned the paper over in my hand, sliding my finger in between the fold to read it.
'SCREEEECH!' The kettle screamed from across the room, causing me to throw the paper, and my heart nearly leaping from my throat. I cursed loudly, hurrying towards the stove and grabbing a potholder to move it from the burner as I turned it off. I shook my head, running a hand over my forehead in exasperation. As I turned back around, looking for the paper I'd lost, my jaw dropped. It lay open on the floor, the words that will haunt me for the rest of my life lying open on full display.
Two little daisies, ready to pluck. We're coming for you daisies, don't count on your luck.
ABOUT 'THE LUCKY ONES': They were supposed to die.
Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed.
Now grown, the anniversary of their families’ deaths approaches and the Fallen Oaks Five receive letters of warning: the killers are still out there and they aren’t finished with them.
In a race against time and murderers who remain both faceless and nameless, the Five must return to their old homes in order to piece together the events of a night they’d all rather forget. Their old town is riddled with secrets, and every person they come into contact with is a suspect. With everything at stake, can the Five solve the mystery and finally learn the truth about the night that cost them everything? Or will they find themselves victims of a fate they should’ve succumbed to years ago?
MY THOUGHTS: My virtual red pen was working overtime with this book. Clumsy is the word that springs to mind both in the plotting and the execution. There are a lot of things that don't make sense - and/or just don't work.
The five survivors of this senseless massacre which was never solved are scattered far and wide across the USA, but somehow manage to gather in a mere few hours.
A lot of the plot was farfetched, and the characterization wasn't good enough to enable me to push the believability issues into the background. This is particularly true when it comes to the motivation behind the killings.
Scenes that should have been suspenseful simply weren't.
There is one aspect of the plot which I thought showed great promise, but this also strayed into the realm of the highly unbelievable and eventually had me rolling my eyes.
I do think Linda Jones did a good job with the narration, and that earned an extra half star from me.
⭐⭐.3
#TheLuckyOnes #NetGalley
I: @kierstenmodglinauthor @orangeskyaudio
T: @kmodglinauthor
#audiobook #contemporaryfiction #crime #murdermystery #psychologicalthriller
THE AUTHOR: Kiersten now lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and their two Boston Terriers: Cedric and Georgie. She is best known for her unpredictable psychological suspense. Kiersten's work is currently being translated into multiple languages and readers across the world refer to her as 'The Queen of Twists.' A Netflix addict, Shonda Rhimes superfan, psychology fanatic, and indoor enthusiast, Kiersten enjoys rainy days spent with her nose in a book.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Orange Sky Audio via Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of The Lucky Ones, written by Kiersten Modglin and narrated by Linda Jones. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage
I stared at it, blinking endlessly as my mind twisted and turned with every dreadful scenario - human teeth, fingernails, a court summons, photographs of myself taken by a stalker, death threats. As I finally reached for the paper, willing myself to stop thinking and just read it, my hands shook. I pulled the paper out. No teeth fell to the floor. I turned the paper over in my hand, sliding my finger in between the fold to read it.
'SCREEEECH!' The kettle screamed from across the room, causing me to throw the paper, and my heart nearly leaping from my throat. I cursed loudly, hurrying towards the stove and grabbing a potholder to move it from the burner as I turned it off. I shook my head, running a hand over my forehead in exasperation. As I turned back around, looking for the paper I'd lost, my jaw dropped. It lay open on the floor, the words that will haunt me for the rest of my life lying open on full display.
Two little daisies, ready to pluck. We're coming for you daisies, don't count on your luck.
ABOUT 'THE LUCKY ONES': They were supposed to die.
Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed.
Now grown, the anniversary of their families’ deaths approaches and the Fallen Oaks Five receive letters of warning: the killers are still out there and they aren’t finished with them.
In a race against time and murderers who remain both faceless and nameless, the Five must return to their old homes in order to piece together the events of a night they’d all rather forget. Their old town is riddled with secrets, and every person they come into contact with is a suspect. With everything at stake, can the Five solve the mystery and finally learn the truth about the night that cost them everything? Or will they find themselves victims of a fate they should’ve succumbed to years ago?
MY THOUGHTS: My virtual red pen was working overtime with this book. Clumsy is the word that springs to mind both in the plotting and the execution. There are a lot of things that don't make sense - and/or just don't work.
The five survivors of this senseless massacre which was never solved are scattered far and wide across the USA, but somehow manage to gather in a mere few hours.
A lot of the plot was farfetched, and the characterization wasn't good enough to enable me to push the believability issues into the background. This is particularly true when it comes to the motivation behind the killings.
Scenes that should have been suspenseful simply weren't.
There is one aspect of the plot which I thought showed great promise, but this also strayed into the realm of the highly unbelievable and eventually had me rolling my eyes.
I do think Linda Jones did a good job with the narration, and that earned an extra half star from me.
⭐⭐.3
#TheLuckyOnes #NetGalley
I: @kierstenmodglinauthor @orangeskyaudio
T: @kmodglinauthor
#audiobook #contemporaryfiction #crime #murdermystery #psychologicalthriller
THE AUTHOR: Kiersten now lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband, daughter, and their two Boston Terriers: Cedric and Georgie. She is best known for her unpredictable psychological suspense. Kiersten's work is currently being translated into multiple languages and readers across the world refer to her as 'The Queen of Twists.' A Netflix addict, Shonda Rhimes superfan, psychology fanatic, and indoor enthusiast, Kiersten enjoys rainy days spent with her nose in a book.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Orange Sky Audio via Netgalley for providing an audio ARC of The Lucky Ones, written by Kiersten Modglin and narrated by Linda Jones. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage
December 24, 2021
They were supposed to die.
That line grabbed me right there. Ominous, foreboding, and compelling.
Five years ago, there was a massacre. People were murdered in their beds. Only five survived - all children who are now linked, dubbed the "Fallen Oaks Five. I don't know about you but that is not something I would like to have in common with someone.
Now grown, they have all tried to get on with their lives, leaving behind that horrible night and the pain that was left in its wake. Then the Fallen Oaks Five begin receiving letters letting them know that it's not over yet! So, they return to the scene of the crime, and are reunited with the demons of their past.
This is a twisty tale, but it never fully wowed me. The pacing was nice, and it kept everything moving but when the reveal occurred, it felt more like a whimper than a bang. But I did enjoy it and I enjoyed the narrator as well. But for some reason, even though I knew they were young adults, at times it felt as if they were all much older. I don't know if it was the narrator's voice or the author trying to show how tragedy matured them, but I had to remind myself that they were much younger.
This book begins on the strong side which grabbed my attention. There are quite a few twists, a few secrets, and quite a few characters. I appreciated that that author created very distinct characters and it was easy to keep track of them and nothing was ever confusing.
Overall, an enjoyable book even though it did quite pack the punch I was looking for.
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
That line grabbed me right there. Ominous, foreboding, and compelling.
Five years ago, there was a massacre. People were murdered in their beds. Only five survived - all children who are now linked, dubbed the "Fallen Oaks Five. I don't know about you but that is not something I would like to have in common with someone.
Now grown, they have all tried to get on with their lives, leaving behind that horrible night and the pain that was left in its wake. Then the Fallen Oaks Five begin receiving letters letting them know that it's not over yet! So, they return to the scene of the crime, and are reunited with the demons of their past.
This is a twisty tale, but it never fully wowed me. The pacing was nice, and it kept everything moving but when the reveal occurred, it felt more like a whimper than a bang. But I did enjoy it and I enjoyed the narrator as well. But for some reason, even though I knew they were young adults, at times it felt as if they were all much older. I don't know if it was the narrator's voice or the author trying to show how tragedy matured them, but I had to remind myself that they were much younger.
This book begins on the strong side which grabbed my attention. There are quite a few twists, a few secrets, and quite a few characters. I appreciated that that author created very distinct characters and it was easy to keep track of them and nothing was ever confusing.
Overall, an enjoyable book even though it did quite pack the punch I was looking for.
Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
July 9, 2022
Unfortunately this story just wasn’t for me. I never felt connected to the characters and just wanted to get to the end. The narration was well done and helped me greatly to push through. I have read other Kiersten Modglin books that I have enjoyed, but this one missed the mark for me. With that being said , I am still interested in reading more from this author. Thank you NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for my audiobook.
December 26, 2021
I enjoyed this outing by Kiersten Modglin, a writer who has been getting a lot of buzz on the internet of late. I read and really enjoyed her buzziest book, The Arrangement, which had a totally shocking ending, and was happy to see that her skill at building suspense in that one was not just a fluke. Here is another solid, suspenseful outing by a prolific new thriller writer to keep your eye on.
There is a very explosive and interesting premise to this book - the very few (five!) survivors of a mass murder in a quiet suburban subdivision come together five years later after receiving new threats. All those years ago, the residents of their little neighborhood, including their whole families, were all horribly murdered, seemingly randomly, except for them. They come to realize their famous and brutal case was never sufficiently investigated (a coverup, perhaps?), and, when they return to the scene of the crime they learn the subdivision has been mowed down and replaced by a park, and the residents are speaking in hushed tones about a curse.
I really loved almost all of the book. Modglin is so adept at building suspense on every page and weaving creative and compelling plots. I was slightly less wowed by the ending, which (unlike her previous effort) did not, to me, wrap up all the loose ends and questions in the way I had been hoping. Still, the book was compelling, interesting, original and ultimately satisfying. I’m definitely going to add Kiersten Modglin to my list of auto-read authors and I look forward to reading more original and scary stuff from her very soon!
Also, the audiobook was very well-narrated and I recommend it! I would love to hear this narrator in future audiobooks by this author - it’s a good match.
Thanks to OrangeSky, NetGalley and the author for the advance listening copy.
There is a very explosive and interesting premise to this book - the very few (five!) survivors of a mass murder in a quiet suburban subdivision come together five years later after receiving new threats. All those years ago, the residents of their little neighborhood, including their whole families, were all horribly murdered, seemingly randomly, except for them. They come to realize their famous and brutal case was never sufficiently investigated (a coverup, perhaps?), and, when they return to the scene of the crime they learn the subdivision has been mowed down and replaced by a park, and the residents are speaking in hushed tones about a curse.
I really loved almost all of the book. Modglin is so adept at building suspense on every page and weaving creative and compelling plots. I was slightly less wowed by the ending, which (unlike her previous effort) did not, to me, wrap up all the loose ends and questions in the way I had been hoping. Still, the book was compelling, interesting, original and ultimately satisfying. I’m definitely going to add Kiersten Modglin to my list of auto-read authors and I look forward to reading more original and scary stuff from her very soon!
Also, the audiobook was very well-narrated and I recommend it! I would love to hear this narrator in future audiobooks by this author - it’s a good match.
Thanks to OrangeSky, NetGalley and the author for the advance listening copy.
December 18, 2022
in a much darker shade
of ms. modglin, this was
a fast-paced narrative,
gripping from the go,
full of surprises. :)
of ms. modglin, this was
a fast-paced narrative,
gripping from the go,
full of surprises. :)
April 9, 2022
I usually love Modglin’s books, which are full of twists. But this didn’t quite hit the mark. As always it was a quick read packed with suspense, but I kept thinking ‘yeah, right’, wanting to roll my eyes. If I had been able to ignore that, I might have applauded the crazy twist, but I’ve grown pickier with time and my need for being wowed is higher. Will still continue to read her books, as I never feel bored while reading them.
December 21, 2021
“The truth was, the past hadn’t made me a victim like everyone thought; I think it made me a monster.”
So many twists, I can't count them all! I was excited to grab another opportunity to listen to a Kiersten Modglin audiobook and I wasn't sorry. KMod’s edge-of-your-seat thrillers never disappoint. After reading the first part of the synopsis, I couldn't pass this one up:
“Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed”
I love captivating and thrilling first chapters and this one is a doozy! It's so suspenseful, it will take your breath away! You literally can't stop reading.
They are The Fallen Oaks Five and they are survivors. Physically, anyway. Their entire subdivision was slaughtered, except for these resilient five children that managed to escape. Leaving their families behind to face the monsters that came in the night.
Five years later and someone thinks it's their turn.
”Two little daisies, ready to pluck.
We're coming for you, daisies, don't count on
your luck.”
Sincere thanks to OrangeSky Audio for providing this audiobook through NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
#theluckyones #kierstenmodglin #orangeskyvideo #netgalley #audiobookreview #InExchangeForReview #BookReviewer #justfinishedreading #bookstagrammer
So many twists, I can't count them all! I was excited to grab another opportunity to listen to a Kiersten Modglin audiobook and I wasn't sorry. KMod’s edge-of-your-seat thrillers never disappoint. After reading the first part of the synopsis, I couldn't pass this one up:
“Five years ago, the residents of the Gerbera subdivision in the small town of Fallen Oaks were brutally murdered in their beds. The only survivors, now called The Fallen Oaks Five, were children—practically strangers at the time, forever connected by the weight of all they witnessed”
I love captivating and thrilling first chapters and this one is a doozy! It's so suspenseful, it will take your breath away! You literally can't stop reading.
They are The Fallen Oaks Five and they are survivors. Physically, anyway. Their entire subdivision was slaughtered, except for these resilient five children that managed to escape. Leaving their families behind to face the monsters that came in the night.
Five years later and someone thinks it's their turn.
”Two little daisies, ready to pluck.
We're coming for you, daisies, don't count on
your luck.”
Sincere thanks to OrangeSky Audio for providing this audiobook through NetGalley. I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
#theluckyones #kierstenmodglin #orangeskyvideo #netgalley #audiobookreview #InExchangeForReview #BookReviewer #justfinishedreading #bookstagrammer
January 1, 2020
This book started with a bang, and never slowed down!
The terror the Fallen Oaks Five faced as children resurfaces as new threats are received, and buried secrets keep them from learning the truth after all the time and space that separates them from the traumatic night they survived.
Complete with her signature twists, unique plot, and suspense that keeps you turning the pages, Modglin's The Lucky Ones is a book not to be missed!
The terror the Fallen Oaks Five faced as children resurfaces as new threats are received, and buried secrets keep them from learning the truth after all the time and space that separates them from the traumatic night they survived.
Complete with her signature twists, unique plot, and suspense that keeps you turning the pages, Modglin's The Lucky Ones is a book not to be missed!
December 24, 2021
I was intrigued by the premise of this one a lot. I listened to the audiobook and did enjoy the narrator. I thought her tone matched the cadence of the thoughts of the narrator (which was at times a little awkward, but it worked for the character). I liked the twists and as usual I saw some coming while others were more of a surprise. I did think there were some parts of the plot that were a little far-fetched for me, but over all it was an engrossing thriller that kept me interested and I enjoyed immensely.
Five years ago the Fallen Oaks Five, Ellie, her little sister Cassie, Gray, Cole, and Monica survived the brutal murders of everyone in their subdivision. The case was never solved but the five of them have stumbled along surviving. Fast forward to the present, right before the 5th anniversary they all get letters threatening that someone is coming to finish the job and that their luck has run out. The five of them are determined to figure out what exactly happened so that they can finally be safe.
Five years ago the Fallen Oaks Five, Ellie, her little sister Cassie, Gray, Cole, and Monica survived the brutal murders of everyone in their subdivision. The case was never solved but the five of them have stumbled along surviving. Fast forward to the present, right before the 5th anniversary they all get letters threatening that someone is coming to finish the job and that their luck has run out. The five of them are determined to figure out what exactly happened so that they can finally be safe.
March 4, 2022
'Their families died...
They survived...
Their luck has run out.
This is the second book I have read of Kiersten Modglin after The Lost Ones and both as audiobooks. I liked listening to this audiobook much more than the other one since I felt Linda Jones did a good job of narrating it although I felt her voice was a bit mature for the five she was narrating who happen to have just entered their 20s. Maybe it could be to show that these characters matured well before their age as a result of the trauma they suffered as children. A lot of readers enjoy Kiersten Modglin's thrillers saying they are fast paced and full of twists and turns. This one was no different and because of the all the twists the pace never dulled. At just over 5 hours, I managed to listen to the audiobook in one sitting.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher OrangeSky Audio and the author for the audio Arc of the book.
They survived...
Their luck has run out.
This is the second book I have read of Kiersten Modglin after The Lost Ones and both as audiobooks. I liked listening to this audiobook much more than the other one since I felt Linda Jones did a good job of narrating it although I felt her voice was a bit mature for the five she was narrating who happen to have just entered their 20s. Maybe it could be to show that these characters matured well before their age as a result of the trauma they suffered as children. A lot of readers enjoy Kiersten Modglin's thrillers saying they are fast paced and full of twists and turns. This one was no different and because of the all the twists the pace never dulled. At just over 5 hours, I managed to listen to the audiobook in one sitting.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher OrangeSky Audio and the author for the audio Arc of the book.
January 7, 2020
I've read a few of this author's books and really, really enjoyed them! I had no idea that this book was releasing or anything about it until the author sent out an email with a review request option! The synopsis sounded very intriguing and I love the cover, so I obviously said yes to reviewing and I started reading it as soon as I received my review copy! After reading, I can say that I loved this book! The plot developed at the perfect pace and it got better and better as it developed! I also told myself to only read a few chapters at a time, but it ended up taking my three sittings to read lol! The plot had a lot of action and suspense in it and I couldn't put it down until I had finished reading it and everything had been revealed! The plot also kept me intrigued and it did go in a different direction to what I was expecting, but it went in an interesting direction! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Ellie was the main female character, and in this book she had witnessed something very horrific and it had a big impact on her, which was completely understandable! She then went through even more as the plot developed! Ellie tried to keep her head on straight and she was the voice of reason a lot of the time! She had also come a long way, even though she still had issues! There wasn't quite a love interest for Ellie in this book, but there were four other secondary characters that were important! These characters were Gray, Cassie, Cole and Monica! All of these characters added a lot to the plot and were essential in the development of the plot and what happened in it! I loved the relationship between all the characters and the way they helped and supported each other! This book was only written from Ellie's point of view, which I loved! I have to be honest and say that I thought that this book was maybe going to be written in third person and from a few different point of views after I read the synopsis, so I was pleasantly surprised when I started reading and it was only written through Ellie's eyes! I loved it being written this way and I was still able to connect with the other characters! It helped me connect with Ellie as well and see how she was dealing with everything! It allowed me to find things out at the same time as Ellie as well! I can also completely understand why this book is a standalone! Everything in the plot was wrapped up and all the questions raised were answered! I wouldn't say no to reading more on one of the secondary characters though lol! I now can't wait to read more books from this author! I still have a few of her books to read, and I'll definitely be doing that soon! I can't wait to see what she's going to release next as well! I'll read anything by this author now because all her books have plenty of suspense to keep me desperate to read more! The cover for this book is also absolutely stunning! It would attract me to the book if I didn't already know the author's name and it actually makes more sense after you read the book and you can see the significance of the daisy! Big thank you to Kiersten for an ARC of The Lucky Ones!
May 23, 2022
The Fallen Oaks 5, survivors of the Gerbera subdivision fights for their lives after receiving letters. They are still on the kill list.
A very fast paced story, and maybe a bit too fast. Would have loved a bit more to elaborate how the survivors work their way through finding the letters and solving the plot.
With a really good storyline I enjoyed it.
A very fast paced story, and maybe a bit too fast. Would have loved a bit more to elaborate how the survivors work their way through finding the letters and solving the plot.
With a really good storyline I enjoyed it.
January 2, 2022
This was a fantastic audiobook, finished in a matter of days, even though I was working!
As my first introduction to the author, I will definitely be looking for more from her in the future.
The pacing and suspense was constant, and I feared for the characters throughout. The twists were relentless, even to the last page, although I did have to listen to the ending again to properly make sense of it.
There were a lot of characters, with all the children of the deceased parents to keep track of, and then added to that their relatives that accompanied them along the way too.
I did figure out some of the ending- the 'who' but not the 'why', and it was the 'why' that I loved! It was really well thought out!
As my first introduction to the author, I will definitely be looking for more from her in the future.
The pacing and suspense was constant, and I feared for the characters throughout. The twists were relentless, even to the last page, although I did have to listen to the ending again to properly make sense of it.
There were a lot of characters, with all the children of the deceased parents to keep track of, and then added to that their relatives that accompanied them along the way too.
I did figure out some of the ending- the 'who' but not the 'why', and it was the 'why' that I loved! It was really well thought out!
December 24, 2021
Kiersten Modglin’s The Arrangement was one of my favorite books of the year! I was so excited to read her next book. However, I feel like this book fell short of my expectations.
The first half of the book left me on the edge of my seat. A few more pages and a couple twists later, my excitement became disappointment. I was not a fan of the twists and I thought the last chapter wasn’t necessary.
On a positive note, I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a great job of conveying the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and OrangeSky Audio for this advanced copy
The first half of the book left me on the edge of my seat. A few more pages and a couple twists later, my excitement became disappointment. I was not a fan of the twists and I thought the last chapter wasn’t necessary.
On a positive note, I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a great job of conveying the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and OrangeSky Audio for this advanced copy
January 17, 2020
Get this book!
The delicious way that Modglin crafts a story will leave you captivated until the wee hours of the morning, turning pages, determined to figure out the mystery she so expertly weaves in a fictional world that feels too close to reality for comfort. The Lucky Ones proved itself to be another story of this author that has left me choosing extra coffee over sleep. The beginning sucks you in, and then you are Ms. Modglin’s prisoner until you read the end.
What a ride! Ellie has taken on the role of her younger sister’s constant protector since the night their loved ones were ripped from them, and now she’s being forced back into that fight or flight decision by the very people responsible for that fateful night. Tangled up with the other three survivors of that horrible night, they have to dive into the past to protect their future, but do they want to know what really happened?
The reader doesn’t breathe easy for a second as the threat of someone watching the Fallen Oaks Five is always looming, present in your mind. I swear, I physically turned around myself a few times because it felt so real.
If you’re looking for a heart-stopping read to start 2020 with, may I point you in the direction of The Lucky Ones? You can thank me later.
The delicious way that Modglin crafts a story will leave you captivated until the wee hours of the morning, turning pages, determined to figure out the mystery she so expertly weaves in a fictional world that feels too close to reality for comfort. The Lucky Ones proved itself to be another story of this author that has left me choosing extra coffee over sleep. The beginning sucks you in, and then you are Ms. Modglin’s prisoner until you read the end.
What a ride! Ellie has taken on the role of her younger sister’s constant protector since the night their loved ones were ripped from them, and now she’s being forced back into that fight or flight decision by the very people responsible for that fateful night. Tangled up with the other three survivors of that horrible night, they have to dive into the past to protect their future, but do they want to know what really happened?
The reader doesn’t breathe easy for a second as the threat of someone watching the Fallen Oaks Five is always looming, present in your mind. I swear, I physically turned around myself a few times because it felt so real.
If you’re looking for a heart-stopping read to start 2020 with, may I point you in the direction of The Lucky Ones? You can thank me later.
January 6, 2022
Good storyline and characters
January 17, 2020
Kiersten Modglin has done it again!!!
The twists and turns in “The Lucky Ones” had me shaking my head and going “Are you kidding me?”
I was enthralled with this novel from the moment I picked it up. Kiersten Modglin has away of grabbing you and keeping hold until you read the shocking ending.
It was emotional yet complicated and exhilarating at the same time!!!
If you are looking for action packed thrillers, you must read “The Lucky Ones”, and all of her other books, too….You cannot go wrong and you will not regret it!!!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.
The twists and turns in “The Lucky Ones” had me shaking my head and going “Are you kidding me?”
I was enthralled with this novel from the moment I picked it up. Kiersten Modglin has away of grabbing you and keeping hold until you read the shocking ending.
It was emotional yet complicated and exhilarating at the same time!!!
If you are looking for action packed thrillers, you must read “The Lucky Ones”, and all of her other books, too….You cannot go wrong and you will not regret it!!!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.
January 17, 2020
The Lucky Ones is an intriguing thriller about The Fallen Oaks Five, five people who survived the murders of their families when they were children.
The storyline is well written and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish as The Fallen Oaks Five faces the killer once again, with secrets, deception, twists and turns, suspense, drama, and danger.
I cannot wait to read more books by this author.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
The storyline is well written and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish as The Fallen Oaks Five faces the killer once again, with secrets, deception, twists and turns, suspense, drama, and danger.
I cannot wait to read more books by this author.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
January 18, 2020
After reading multiple books by this author, I have come to know her for her plot twists. It was so amazing to totally not see the end coming. It left me with my head spinning and heart racing. I loved Ellie. She was definitely an interesting voice. And the beginning of this story, woah! High intensity and crazy from the first pages. Definitely a top read for 2020!
June 18, 2023
When a whole subdivision of a town is killed, there are five children who hide and survive the killing. They go on to live their lives but as the anniversary of the killing comes, they all get a letter that its not over and the killers are not finished with them. They all decide to travel back home and find out what is going on. But what they find out is more than they thought they would ever know about that fateful night.
Modglin does it again with keeping us at the edge of our seats. Finding out even more about this story and all the secrets and suspects involved is another great book by this author. A must read book!
Modglin does it again with keeping us at the edge of our seats. Finding out even more about this story and all the secrets and suspects involved is another great book by this author. A must read book!
January 4, 2022
3.5 stars
They are known as the Fallen Oaks Five. Five kids whose parents were brutally murdered in a residential community called Fallen Oaks. Five years later the survivors receive a death threat from the person(s) who killed their parents. What ensues is a race against time to figure out who killed their parents and why before they become the next victims.
This was a super quick read that was both suspenseful and entertaining. The plot raced along at breakneck speed. The reveal was surprising and the pieces all fit together at the end. The audio version was solid and the narrator delivered an engaging and believable performance. The story as a whole was good but was similar to other thrillers I’ve read - nothing out of the ordinary.
I loved this author’s last book The Arrangement. This one didn’t quite live up to that one but still recommend it to others. Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and Netgalley for an advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
They are known as the Fallen Oaks Five. Five kids whose parents were brutally murdered in a residential community called Fallen Oaks. Five years later the survivors receive a death threat from the person(s) who killed their parents. What ensues is a race against time to figure out who killed their parents and why before they become the next victims.
This was a super quick read that was both suspenseful and entertaining. The plot raced along at breakneck speed. The reveal was surprising and the pieces all fit together at the end. The audio version was solid and the narrator delivered an engaging and believable performance. The story as a whole was good but was similar to other thrillers I’ve read - nothing out of the ordinary.
I loved this author’s last book The Arrangement. This one didn’t quite live up to that one but still recommend it to others. Thank you to OrangeSky Audio and Netgalley for an advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2020
Oh my where to begin. I enjoyed this book immensely. Kiersten gets you hooked in at the very beginning to the very end. The twists and on the edge makes you turn page by page as fast as you can, wondering what will happen next. Sometimes you may think you have figured it out, but then that ultimate twist turns things in another direction. I love when a book keeps your interest from beginning to end. Thank you Kiersten. Keep writing because you definitely keep your readers wanting more.
January 12, 2022
This one kicks off immediately and I was intriguing by the plot from the very start! It kind of gave me a bit of a Final Destination vibe as well which was interesting!
I really enjoy KMod’s writing style and her continuous use of multiple twists and turns! It always leaves me continually turning the pages and helps me fly through all of her books! While this wasn’t my favourite of hers, I typically find her books to be a thrilling ride so I’m excited to keep reading more!
3.5 rounded to 4
I really enjoy KMod’s writing style and her continuous use of multiple twists and turns! It always leaves me continually turning the pages and helps me fly through all of her books! While this wasn’t my favourite of hers, I typically find her books to be a thrilling ride so I’m excited to keep reading more!
3.5 rounded to 4
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November 10, 2024"I guess it's true what they say: 'People will do anything to save themselves no matter who else may get hurt in the process.'"
This quote is a good summary, not only of the story but also of current events this week.
KMod is very good at story telling and excels at surprise endings. I really admire her talent, showcased in the shocking ending of this psychological thriller.
This quote is a good summary, not only of the story but also of current events this week.
KMod is very good at story telling and excels at surprise endings. I really admire her talent, showcased in the shocking ending of this psychological thriller.
January 5, 2020
The minute “The Lucky Ones” hit my Kindle and I read the first paragraph, I knew I was in for another suspenseful, haunting and amazing book from Kiersten Modglin. Very few authors have the grasp for suspense writing and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
I was afraid for Ellie and Cassie and I wouldn’t have been as brave as they were when they decided to return to the scene of the crime; a place and time they had tried to forget. Secrets, lies and shocking revelations about the past led the survivors on a journey to uncover the truth. The sinister events of the past which resulted in the tragedy, were almost too much to bear and impossible to comprehend. I kept trying to figure out the motive for the murders, but Ms. Modglin kept me guessing, as she usually does with all of her books.
Any successful suspense novel needs to capture the reader’s attention by allowing them to be concerned about the characters and empathize with their situation. A sense of danger and escalating tension keeps the reader on the edge of her seat as the clues are uncovered and all the questions are answered. “The Lucky Ones” touches upon all of this and more, along with a shocking and surprising ending that you will never forget.
I was afraid for Ellie and Cassie and I wouldn’t have been as brave as they were when they decided to return to the scene of the crime; a place and time they had tried to forget. Secrets, lies and shocking revelations about the past led the survivors on a journey to uncover the truth. The sinister events of the past which resulted in the tragedy, were almost too much to bear and impossible to comprehend. I kept trying to figure out the motive for the murders, but Ms. Modglin kept me guessing, as she usually does with all of her books.
Any successful suspense novel needs to capture the reader’s attention by allowing them to be concerned about the characters and empathize with their situation. A sense of danger and escalating tension keeps the reader on the edge of her seat as the clues are uncovered and all the questions are answered. “The Lucky Ones” touches upon all of this and more, along with a shocking and surprising ending that you will never forget.
January 9, 2020
Let me start off by saying prepare yourself for a wild ride! As you read this incredible story, you will think you gave it all figured out, then this author throws something else at you to leave you guessing again. The story revolves around 5 survivors of a tragedy that happened in their past. Something brings them back together to figure out why they survived. Two of the main characters are Ellie and Cassie. They are sisters who will do anything for each other and will protect themselves at all costs. Who should they trust? Will they ever figure out what truly happened? Can the Fallen Five even trust each other? If you want to know what happens in this thrilling murder mystery, then do yourself a favor and read this heart-stopping story! You will be glued to your seat until you finish. Prepare yourself for the ending it has in store for you!
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