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An Alex Ripley Mystery #2
Das Schweigen der Angst
Dunkle Seelen ...
Jane Hewitt ist geheilt, ihr Krebs im Endstadium verschwunden! Und das nach nur einem Besuch bei Megan, einer Wunderheilerin, die offenbar eine unglaubliche Gabe besitzt. Doch am nächsten Tag stirbt Jane in den Armen ihres Mannes Ian. Ist Megan Schuld? Wohl kaum - das erst 15-jährige Mädchen liegt nämlich seit Jahren im Koma! In seiner Not wendet Ian sich an die einzige Person, die ihm jetzt noch helfen kann: Dr. Alex Ripley, spezialisiert auf die Erklärung übersinnlicher Phänomene. Fasziniert von Megans Fall findet sich Ripley auf Holy Island vor der Küste von Nordwales wieder - und mitten in einer Untersuchung, die sehr viel düsterer und gefährlicher ist als Ripley es sich hätte ausmalen können: Ian ist nämlich nicht die erste Person, die sich über Megan und ihre Unterstützer beschwert. Aber er ist der einzige, der noch am Leben ist ...
Düster und hochspannend - Alex Ripley ermittelt weiter.
eBooks von beTHRILLED - mörderisch gute Unterhaltung!
Jane Hewitt ist geheilt, ihr Krebs im Endstadium verschwunden! Und das nach nur einem Besuch bei Megan, einer Wunderheilerin, die offenbar eine unglaubliche Gabe besitzt. Doch am nächsten Tag stirbt Jane in den Armen ihres Mannes Ian. Ist Megan Schuld? Wohl kaum - das erst 15-jährige Mädchen liegt nämlich seit Jahren im Koma! In seiner Not wendet Ian sich an die einzige Person, die ihm jetzt noch helfen kann: Dr. Alex Ripley, spezialisiert auf die Erklärung übersinnlicher Phänomene. Fasziniert von Megans Fall findet sich Ripley auf Holy Island vor der Küste von Nordwales wieder - und mitten in einer Untersuchung, die sehr viel düsterer und gefährlicher ist als Ripley es sich hätte ausmalen können: Ian ist nämlich nicht die erste Person, die sich über Megan und ihre Unterstützer beschwert. Aber er ist der einzige, der noch am Leben ist ...
Düster und hochspannend - Alex Ripley ermittelt weiter.
eBooks von beTHRILLED - mörderisch gute Unterhaltung!
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2019
12 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 23, 2018
My Rating:
4.5 Tautly Written Stars
My Review:
M. Sean Coleman has conjured an original and brilliantly connived plot to immerse his favorite busybody. If I were one of Mr. Coleman’s friends I would be rather cautious about tipping his ire, he seems quite crafty in causing annoyances to miraculously disappear. While the mystery was slower to develop and not as eerie as his recent stunning release of The Cuckoo Wood, the sly and twisty storylines of A Hollow Sky were tautly written with canny misdirections and clever sleight of hand that kept me guessing to the final chapter.
I couldn’t bring myself to trust or admire any of these shifty yet vividly detailed characters; not the self-serving tight-knit villagers, the deluded and greedy mother, or least of all the slick religious charlatans who were exploiting a sick child as well as the gullible people they were fleecing who were desperate enough to expect a death-defying cure from a comatose child. I was repulsed by the spectacle and despised them all while my fervent curiosity remained fully engaged to the extremely precarious climax, which had me full of body tension and holding my breath.
I must not forget to mention that the devilish Mr. Coleman began and ended this tale with Dr. Ripley’s own personal drama with disconcerting yet exciting news which was then quickly placed in a holding pattern while waiting for more information, only to be dangled again at the very end to taunt and tantalize me while I wait for the heinously cunning Mr. Coleman to pound out the next caper. Curses! I want to give him a good pinch for teasing me so but must confess that I’m on the hook… this guy knows his stuff!
I was able to harvest one new addition for my Brit vocabulary list with chock-a-block, which apparently has several meanings such as overly full or overflowing as well as disgruntled or fed-up.
4.5 Tautly Written Stars
My Review:
M. Sean Coleman has conjured an original and brilliantly connived plot to immerse his favorite busybody. If I were one of Mr. Coleman’s friends I would be rather cautious about tipping his ire, he seems quite crafty in causing annoyances to miraculously disappear. While the mystery was slower to develop and not as eerie as his recent stunning release of The Cuckoo Wood, the sly and twisty storylines of A Hollow Sky were tautly written with canny misdirections and clever sleight of hand that kept me guessing to the final chapter.
I couldn’t bring myself to trust or admire any of these shifty yet vividly detailed characters; not the self-serving tight-knit villagers, the deluded and greedy mother, or least of all the slick religious charlatans who were exploiting a sick child as well as the gullible people they were fleecing who were desperate enough to expect a death-defying cure from a comatose child. I was repulsed by the spectacle and despised them all while my fervent curiosity remained fully engaged to the extremely precarious climax, which had me full of body tension and holding my breath.
I must not forget to mention that the devilish Mr. Coleman began and ended this tale with Dr. Ripley’s own personal drama with disconcerting yet exciting news which was then quickly placed in a holding pattern while waiting for more information, only to be dangled again at the very end to taunt and tantalize me while I wait for the heinously cunning Mr. Coleman to pound out the next caper. Curses! I want to give him a good pinch for teasing me so but must confess that I’m on the hook… this guy knows his stuff!
I was able to harvest one new addition for my Brit vocabulary list with chock-a-block, which apparently has several meanings such as overly full or overflowing as well as disgruntled or fed-up.
November 10, 2018
The second Alex Ripley novel and I enjoyed it just as much as the first one. One of the things I've been enjoying in both books is the speed of events. Nothing is drawn out and thing are dealt with in a matter of days. Ripley is one fast debunker.
And the debunking in this one isn't actually resolved and I liked that. Megan is being used by family and the local reverend as a faith healer. She has no say in this as she's been in a coma for the past few years. It raises some interesting questions on abuse towards those with no voice and how we treat them. Megan is well looked after, she has all the best care but there's something uncomfortable about the stream of visitors believing this girl can cure their incurable illnesses. I'm on the fence with my belief system on this and I like the way Ripley essentially just wants an answer and while she wants to expose the fakes she would also promote something genuine.
We don't get an answer on this one as other events occur and the mysteries that come with them are much more man made (trying to do this without giving anything away) and easier to deal with.
Ripley is fast turning into someone on my favourite character list. I'm intrigued around the mystery of her missing husband and as we hear more about that in the final chapters I can't wait for book 3 to be able to see how that situation unravels.
Everything moves at a fast pace, the character of Ripley is developing in such an enjoyable way with each book and there's enough about the secondary characters to make you care about their plight or wish their comeuppance. I' so glad I was introduced to these novels and really looking forward to reading book 3.
And the debunking in this one isn't actually resolved and I liked that. Megan is being used by family and the local reverend as a faith healer. She has no say in this as she's been in a coma for the past few years. It raises some interesting questions on abuse towards those with no voice and how we treat them. Megan is well looked after, she has all the best care but there's something uncomfortable about the stream of visitors believing this girl can cure their incurable illnesses. I'm on the fence with my belief system on this and I like the way Ripley essentially just wants an answer and while she wants to expose the fakes she would also promote something genuine.
We don't get an answer on this one as other events occur and the mysteries that come with them are much more man made (trying to do this without giving anything away) and easier to deal with.
Ripley is fast turning into someone on my favourite character list. I'm intrigued around the mystery of her missing husband and as we hear more about that in the final chapters I can't wait for book 3 to be able to see how that situation unravels.
Everything moves at a fast pace, the character of Ripley is developing in such an enjoyable way with each book and there's enough about the secondary characters to make you care about their plight or wish their comeuppance. I' so glad I was introduced to these novels and really looking forward to reading book 3.
November 26, 2018
I have read and enjoyed the first book in this series, but did I like this one as well?
The answer to this question is easy. I did not like it. I loved it! (Were you scared? lol)
I have always been fascinated by miracles and faith healers and this story was right up my alley. From the very first page I was dragged into it and have did not put the book down before I had finished it. This means it was a thoroughly good one.
The author has a very nice writing style and a way of putting you on the wrong foot. Delicious!
I will be counting the days towards the publishing date of book 3.
Thank you, M. Sean Coleman and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
The answer to this question is easy. I did not like it. I loved it! (Were you scared? lol)
I have always been fascinated by miracles and faith healers and this story was right up my alley. From the very first page I was dragged into it and have did not put the book down before I had finished it. This means it was a thoroughly good one.
The author has a very nice writing style and a way of putting you on the wrong foot. Delicious!
I will be counting the days towards the publishing date of book 3.
Thank you, M. Sean Coleman and RachelsRandomResources.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
November 27, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I really enjoyed this story, it was gritty and well written.
I thought that the plot line was strong and it had just the right amount of detail to keep me fully engaged and I loved the twists. I read the book over two days and couldn't wait to see how it would end!!
This is the second in the series but I felt that you were fine to read this one without reading the previous book, but you will want to read the next in the series as soon as you finish this one as it has a cracking ending!
4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - very highly recommended and can't wait to see what he releases next!!
I really enjoyed this story, it was gritty and well written.
I thought that the plot line was strong and it had just the right amount of detail to keep me fully engaged and I loved the twists. I read the book over two days and couldn't wait to see how it would end!!
This is the second in the series but I felt that you were fine to read this one without reading the previous book, but you will want to read the next in the series as soon as you finish this one as it has a cracking ending!
4.5 stars from me for this one, rounded up to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon - very highly recommended and can't wait to see what he releases next!!
November 25, 2018
I have just finished this book and bloody hell that ending! I need the next book like yesterday!! I adore this series, Dr Alex Ripley is such a refreshing character and I can relate a lot to her with her current situation, as I said in my last review, of her husband being AWOL, my biggest fear!
This story touches on the case from the previous book, in fact, the book carries on a matter of days after the first so I would read it. You would not be missing out if you did not read it, but you would miss the overall picture by not doing so.
I loved that this book, as mentioned before, continues from the first book and that Ripley is not a machine and back to normal, that the case in Cuckoo Wood has affected her. We learn more about her husband John and him being AWOL. And we return back to a character from the first book Ian Hewitt! He feels his wife was duped by a supposed child healer and this is where Ripley joins the fray.
Ian’s story is a heartbreaking one and it is one which explains the meaning of A hollow sky, I just wanted to cry. But when Ian turns up at the girl’s house things get out hand and Ripley comes to town. Then things seriously go crazy!
I love that this is another sleepy village story but contrasting from the first book in that they don’t renounce strangers but welcome them, all the while watching their every move! Everyone seemed to out for themselves, with their own motives and no consideration for anyone.
The ending was shocking for one storyline and heartbreaking for another and OMG for another! I don’t quite know how to compute it all.
I can easily get lost in Mr Coleman’s writing! It took me a day to read, had to get my normal 5 hours sleep in, as I just didn’t want to put this book down. I had to follow the clues with Ripley and I didn’t have a scooby how it would end or what would cause it to end and I loved it! This series is detective work but a different kind, Ripley wants to debunk the miracles but all the while wanting one. She is there to question not your faith but the reality of it all. And I love that it is not a typical police procedural book, we get stuck in the characters, if and when there are deaths it takes a back seat as the characters and motives take the forefront making this such an exciting series to read!
I love it and I can not wait for the next book. Have I said that already?! Well, I can not! Just wish I had it now! Cliffhanger much!!!!!
This story touches on the case from the previous book, in fact, the book carries on a matter of days after the first so I would read it. You would not be missing out if you did not read it, but you would miss the overall picture by not doing so.
I loved that this book, as mentioned before, continues from the first book and that Ripley is not a machine and back to normal, that the case in Cuckoo Wood has affected her. We learn more about her husband John and him being AWOL. And we return back to a character from the first book Ian Hewitt! He feels his wife was duped by a supposed child healer and this is where Ripley joins the fray.
Ian’s story is a heartbreaking one and it is one which explains the meaning of A hollow sky, I just wanted to cry. But when Ian turns up at the girl’s house things get out hand and Ripley comes to town. Then things seriously go crazy!
I love that this is another sleepy village story but contrasting from the first book in that they don’t renounce strangers but welcome them, all the while watching their every move! Everyone seemed to out for themselves, with their own motives and no consideration for anyone.
The ending was shocking for one storyline and heartbreaking for another and OMG for another! I don’t quite know how to compute it all.
I can easily get lost in Mr Coleman’s writing! It took me a day to read, had to get my normal 5 hours sleep in, as I just didn’t want to put this book down. I had to follow the clues with Ripley and I didn’t have a scooby how it would end or what would cause it to end and I loved it! This series is detective work but a different kind, Ripley wants to debunk the miracles but all the while wanting one. She is there to question not your faith but the reality of it all. And I love that it is not a typical police procedural book, we get stuck in the characters, if and when there are deaths it takes a back seat as the characters and motives take the forefront making this such an exciting series to read!
I love it and I can not wait for the next book. Have I said that already?! Well, I can not! Just wish I had it now! Cliffhanger much!!!!!
August 4, 2019
Das Wunder
Es ist tragisch, Ians Frau ist schwer an Krebs erkrankt. Eigentlich hatte sie sich mit ihrem Schicksal abgefunden, dachte Ian. Doch als sie von der Wunderheilerin Megan hört, möchte sie einen letzten Versuch starten. Nach dem Treffen scheint es Jane Hewitt tatsächlich besser zu gehen. Mit Ian verbringt sie einen wunderbaren Tag, doch dann stirbt sie schneller als erwartet. Ian ist untröstlich, er gibt Megan die Schuld am noch früheren Tod seiner Frau. Megan liegt allerdings nach einem Unfall seit Jahren im Koma. Als Ian wegen Belästigung verhaftet wird, bittet er Dr. Alex Ripley um Hilfe.
Gerade ist Alex geschwächt von einem Einsatz zurückgekommen. Erholung ist es, was sie braucht. Ians Geschichte fasziniert sie doch so sehr, dass sie sich nach Holy Island vor der walisischen Küste aufmacht, um herauszufinden, ob Megan tatsächlich Wunder wirken kann. Dr. Ripley ist Theologin und sie hat sich auf die Erforschung möglicher übersinnlicher Phänomene spezialisiert. Wie sie in ihrem neuesten Buch schreibt, hat sie bisher keinen Beweis für das Wirken von Wundern finden können, allerdings auch keinen Gegenbeweis. Megans Geschichte hätte genau ins Buch gepasst. Kann die junge Frau, die seit Jahren in ihrem Zustand ist, vielleicht doch Wunder wirken?
Dies ist bereits der zweite Band um Dr. Alex Ripley. Zwar gibt es kleine Andeutungen zu dem anderen Buch, zum Glück werden für die Lektüre keine Vorkenntnisse benötigt, die Ermittlungen sind in sich abgeschlossen und die Rahmenhandlung wird so erklärt, dass man problemlos hineinkommt. Interessant wie die Autorin die Frage nach der Existenz von Wundern herangeht, denn der Leser entscheidet schließlich selbst, wie er die entsprechenden Passagen deutet. Das gibt einen Anstoß einmal genauer über das Thema nachzudenken. Gleichzeitig taucht Alex Ripley ins Gefüge eines kleinen Dorfes ein, dessen Bewohner oberflächlich freundlich sind. Allerdings sind viele auch finanziell abhängig von Megans Unterstützern. Alex merkt schnell, dass diese Freundlichkeit häufig nur vorgeschoben ist und sie sich vorsehen muss. Megans Schicksal bildet das Zentrum der Handlung, trotz ihrer erzwungenen Abwesenheit beherrscht der Gedanke an ihr Schicksal alles. Einige weitere Handlungsstränge wirken daneben ein wenig schnell und oberflächlich abgehandelt. Wem allerdings der fesselnd andere Ansatz gefällt, wird sich daran nicht groß stören und gebannt weiterlesen, um zu erfahren, was Alex Ripley noch herausfinden wird.
Es ist tragisch, Ians Frau ist schwer an Krebs erkrankt. Eigentlich hatte sie sich mit ihrem Schicksal abgefunden, dachte Ian. Doch als sie von der Wunderheilerin Megan hört, möchte sie einen letzten Versuch starten. Nach dem Treffen scheint es Jane Hewitt tatsächlich besser zu gehen. Mit Ian verbringt sie einen wunderbaren Tag, doch dann stirbt sie schneller als erwartet. Ian ist untröstlich, er gibt Megan die Schuld am noch früheren Tod seiner Frau. Megan liegt allerdings nach einem Unfall seit Jahren im Koma. Als Ian wegen Belästigung verhaftet wird, bittet er Dr. Alex Ripley um Hilfe.
Gerade ist Alex geschwächt von einem Einsatz zurückgekommen. Erholung ist es, was sie braucht. Ians Geschichte fasziniert sie doch so sehr, dass sie sich nach Holy Island vor der walisischen Küste aufmacht, um herauszufinden, ob Megan tatsächlich Wunder wirken kann. Dr. Ripley ist Theologin und sie hat sich auf die Erforschung möglicher übersinnlicher Phänomene spezialisiert. Wie sie in ihrem neuesten Buch schreibt, hat sie bisher keinen Beweis für das Wirken von Wundern finden können, allerdings auch keinen Gegenbeweis. Megans Geschichte hätte genau ins Buch gepasst. Kann die junge Frau, die seit Jahren in ihrem Zustand ist, vielleicht doch Wunder wirken?
Dies ist bereits der zweite Band um Dr. Alex Ripley. Zwar gibt es kleine Andeutungen zu dem anderen Buch, zum Glück werden für die Lektüre keine Vorkenntnisse benötigt, die Ermittlungen sind in sich abgeschlossen und die Rahmenhandlung wird so erklärt, dass man problemlos hineinkommt. Interessant wie die Autorin die Frage nach der Existenz von Wundern herangeht, denn der Leser entscheidet schließlich selbst, wie er die entsprechenden Passagen deutet. Das gibt einen Anstoß einmal genauer über das Thema nachzudenken. Gleichzeitig taucht Alex Ripley ins Gefüge eines kleinen Dorfes ein, dessen Bewohner oberflächlich freundlich sind. Allerdings sind viele auch finanziell abhängig von Megans Unterstützern. Alex merkt schnell, dass diese Freundlichkeit häufig nur vorgeschoben ist und sie sich vorsehen muss. Megans Schicksal bildet das Zentrum der Handlung, trotz ihrer erzwungenen Abwesenheit beherrscht der Gedanke an ihr Schicksal alles. Einige weitere Handlungsstränge wirken daneben ein wenig schnell und oberflächlich abgehandelt. Wem allerdings der fesselnd andere Ansatz gefällt, wird sich daran nicht groß stören und gebannt weiterlesen, um zu erfahren, was Alex Ripley noch herausfinden wird.
December 17, 2022
Firstly I haven’t read the first book , second I’ll be reading it now. I didn’t realise this was the second.
It can be read alone and it was great.
But I want to know more so I’ll be hopping back over to get what I want.
This touches on the first and links so I think it’ll be better to go in order. For me anyways.
Really enjoyable and a great tempo to get into.
It can be read alone and it was great.
But I want to know more so I’ll be hopping back over to get what I want.
This touches on the first and links so I think it’ll be better to go in order. For me anyways.
Really enjoyable and a great tempo to get into.
November 19, 2018
Hollow Sky, the second book in the Alex Ripley mysteries, deals with faith healers, cons and another well knit village community.
To be quite honest, I didn't enjoy it as much as the previous book in the series. For one, there were way too many unnecessary descriptions, and they started getting dull after a while, making me skip paragraphs.
Secondly, it ended with the perpetrator escaping. And that annoyed me. A lot. Though I guess it's how it is.
Overall, Hollow Sky wasn't the kind of mystery that would keep you on edge, but it'd definitely hold your attention until you turned the last page.
To be quite honest, I didn't enjoy it as much as the previous book in the series. For one, there were way too many unnecessary descriptions, and they started getting dull after a while, making me skip paragraphs.
Secondly, it ended with the perpetrator escaping. And that annoyed me. A lot. Though I guess it's how it is.
Overall, Hollow Sky wasn't the kind of mystery that would keep you on edge, but it'd definitely hold your attention until you turned the last page.
November 26, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book with thanks to the author, Red Dog Press and Rachel Gilbey at Rachel’s Random Resources blog tours. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Another great mystical mystery from M. Sean Coleman, the second in his Alex Ripley series. You don’t have to have read the first, as the main points are recapped dripfeed-style throughout the plot here, but in my opinion you would be missing out!
The ‘miracle debunking’ is yet again an excellent hook (faith healing this time, angels previously), providing a fresh take on a genre suffused with psychologists, MD’s, CSI’s and PI’s. I particularly like the way Coleman keeps a dual perspective running on this element of his plots, with Ripley unaware that even as she is working to debunk the mystical/religious aspects of the case, the reader is getting inside information to suggest that there may be more things in heaven and earth…!
There is some slight feeling of déjà vu in some places for readers who are fresh from Book 1, as some of the characters seem to follow similar tropes despite the different names and setting: friendly landlord, scowling young man and so forth. There is no repetition in the plot though and once the story gets fully underway the new characters take on a distinguishing life of their own.
There is plenty of action, investigation, and some unexpected twists here that kept me guessing until the reveal, and Ripley’s personal story expands as the fate of her MIA husband comes into question, leaving the reader on the edge of their seat at the final pages and eager for the next instalment.
Definitely a great series for mystery fans looking for something a little off the beaten track and into the mysterious woods!
He had been preparing for this moment for months, ever since the doctors had sat them down together and told them there was nothing more they could do. And now it was time. He wanted to curl into her. Go with her. Hold her close and give her every bit of life that still coursed through his own body. He had promised himself that he would be strong. He’d sworn to her he’d be fine. But, right now, he was neither.
A fierce, burning anger consumed him. Not because he was losing her. Nor because of cancer’s indiscriminate destruction. But because they had stripped her of the one thing she held so dear: her faith. She had believed she was healed, they both had. And those frauds had let her believe it.
As he gripped Jane’s hand, resting his head on her chest, listening to the faintest breath struggling in and out of her wracked body, he vowed he would make them pay for their deceit if it was the last thing he did.
– M. Sean Coleman, A Hollow Sky
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Another great mystical mystery from M. Sean Coleman, the second in his Alex Ripley series. You don’t have to have read the first, as the main points are recapped dripfeed-style throughout the plot here, but in my opinion you would be missing out!
The ‘miracle debunking’ is yet again an excellent hook (faith healing this time, angels previously), providing a fresh take on a genre suffused with psychologists, MD’s, CSI’s and PI’s. I particularly like the way Coleman keeps a dual perspective running on this element of his plots, with Ripley unaware that even as she is working to debunk the mystical/religious aspects of the case, the reader is getting inside information to suggest that there may be more things in heaven and earth…!
There is some slight feeling of déjà vu in some places for readers who are fresh from Book 1, as some of the characters seem to follow similar tropes despite the different names and setting: friendly landlord, scowling young man and so forth. There is no repetition in the plot though and once the story gets fully underway the new characters take on a distinguishing life of their own.
There is plenty of action, investigation, and some unexpected twists here that kept me guessing until the reveal, and Ripley’s personal story expands as the fate of her MIA husband comes into question, leaving the reader on the edge of their seat at the final pages and eager for the next instalment.
Definitely a great series for mystery fans looking for something a little off the beaten track and into the mysterious woods!
He had been preparing for this moment for months, ever since the doctors had sat them down together and told them there was nothing more they could do. And now it was time. He wanted to curl into her. Go with her. Hold her close and give her every bit of life that still coursed through his own body. He had promised himself that he would be strong. He’d sworn to her he’d be fine. But, right now, he was neither.
A fierce, burning anger consumed him. Not because he was losing her. Nor because of cancer’s indiscriminate destruction. But because they had stripped her of the one thing she held so dear: her faith. She had believed she was healed, they both had. And those frauds had let her believe it.
As he gripped Jane’s hand, resting his head on her chest, listening to the faintest breath struggling in and out of her wracked body, he vowed he would make them pay for their deceit if it was the last thing he did.
– M. Sean Coleman, A Hollow Sky
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
November 29, 2018
I knew this was a series, and after I read the first book I was extremely curious about Dr. Alex's new adventure. This series is probably one of my favorite mystery thriller series this year, and I will let you know why in a second. But first, since this is the second novel in this series, I highly recommend people to read The Cuckoo Wood before this one because, although it can be read as a stand alone, I truly believe you will get a better understanding about the main character if you read the book in sequence.
Now, let me do a list of things I loved about this book.
One... the author's writing style was just perfect. The was the plot, the pace, the intriguing mystery and characters were brilliantly written and made the entire novel fascinating and I couldn't leave it alone until I learned all it's secrets. Plus it was made me invest in the story and try to figure out the truth behind this new case.
Two... with this book we learn more about Alex and we see how she's dealing after that first case, and as we read this book we have a chance to understand her even more and see the development she had. I already saw her as a determined woman that wants to find out the truth. I loved reading that about her, it made me connect with her more, and I felt like I was there with Alex trying to understand the truth, which was want really made me excited.
Three... the interactions between the characters was intriguing. Alex has to deal with a lot of obstacles while interacting with the community and finding out what people knew. And the interactions made the book seem even more real and human.
Four... the themes used in both books are creative and unique and that's another aspect I loved about this novel (and series). The idea of a faith healer is quite fascinating to me and I liked how the author took that idea into this novel and created an 'at the edge of my seat' kind of book.
Overall, loved the book and I recommend it to everyone. I can't wait to read more books from M. Sean Coleman and following Alex in another journey to find the truth.
{I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and M. Sean Coleman for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.}
Now, let me do a list of things I loved about this book.
One... the author's writing style was just perfect. The was the plot, the pace, the intriguing mystery and characters were brilliantly written and made the entire novel fascinating and I couldn't leave it alone until I learned all it's secrets. Plus it was made me invest in the story and try to figure out the truth behind this new case.
Two... with this book we learn more about Alex and we see how she's dealing after that first case, and as we read this book we have a chance to understand her even more and see the development she had. I already saw her as a determined woman that wants to find out the truth. I loved reading that about her, it made me connect with her more, and I felt like I was there with Alex trying to understand the truth, which was want really made me excited.
Three... the interactions between the characters was intriguing. Alex has to deal with a lot of obstacles while interacting with the community and finding out what people knew. And the interactions made the book seem even more real and human.
Four... the themes used in both books are creative and unique and that's another aspect I loved about this novel (and series). The idea of a faith healer is quite fascinating to me and I liked how the author took that idea into this novel and created an 'at the edge of my seat' kind of book.
Overall, loved the book and I recommend it to everyone. I can't wait to read more books from M. Sean Coleman and following Alex in another journey to find the truth.
{I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and M. Sean Coleman for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and by being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book.}
November 29, 2018
M. Sean Coleman has given us another brilliant mystery!!!! This series is one of the best mystery series I have read this year!!!
This is the second book in the Alex Ripley series, and it is just as good as the first! I was riveted from the very first pages. I couldn’t wait to delve into this mystery...what an intriguing and tangled web little jewel this one is. Alex finds herself pulled into another mystery that will test her boundaries. Alex met Ian on one of her appearances in which she was trying to expose fake faith healers. Ian took his wife to a young girl who was in a coma in hopes of healing her from terminal cancer. His hopes are high when his wife, Jane, walked again. He was able to hold her again. Only hours later she was dead, and he vowed to expose those who took his Jane away. When an attempt is made on Megan’s life by way of her life support, Ian is of course the first suspect. Alex comes to his rescue when summoned. However, this is just the beginning of this convoluted case….many others who have accused Megan and her family of being fakes have disappeared.
As usual, Coleman kept me guessing with all the twists he threw my way.
What just blew me away was how he created a character, Megan, in which no other character knows what is going on in her mind; she is in a coma. Yet, he gives us, his readers, a look into her thoughts. My heart really went out to her! His other characters were well thought out and developed as well. There are some I really detested, and some I didn’t. You will understand that when you read it. He also gave me more insight into Alex’s life. I’m interested in what her future holds.
Coleman has a way of pulling the reader right into the book with the way in which he writes. He engages almost every one of my senses. Mysteries don’t usually do that for me, but he writes an incredible atmospheric thriller. If you haven’t discovered this series, you really need discover this talented writer.
This is the second book in the Alex Ripley series, and it is just as good as the first! I was riveted from the very first pages. I couldn’t wait to delve into this mystery...what an intriguing and tangled web little jewel this one is. Alex finds herself pulled into another mystery that will test her boundaries. Alex met Ian on one of her appearances in which she was trying to expose fake faith healers. Ian took his wife to a young girl who was in a coma in hopes of healing her from terminal cancer. His hopes are high when his wife, Jane, walked again. He was able to hold her again. Only hours later she was dead, and he vowed to expose those who took his Jane away. When an attempt is made on Megan’s life by way of her life support, Ian is of course the first suspect. Alex comes to his rescue when summoned. However, this is just the beginning of this convoluted case….many others who have accused Megan and her family of being fakes have disappeared.
As usual, Coleman kept me guessing with all the twists he threw my way.
What just blew me away was how he created a character, Megan, in which no other character knows what is going on in her mind; she is in a coma. Yet, he gives us, his readers, a look into her thoughts. My heart really went out to her! His other characters were well thought out and developed as well. There are some I really detested, and some I didn’t. You will understand that when you read it. He also gave me more insight into Alex’s life. I’m interested in what her future holds.
Coleman has a way of pulling the reader right into the book with the way in which he writes. He engages almost every one of my senses. Mysteries don’t usually do that for me, but he writes an incredible atmospheric thriller. If you haven’t discovered this series, you really need discover this talented writer.
December 3, 2018
After reading The Cuckoo Wood I was eager to get back to Alex Ripley. I really enjoy her as a character and this book didn’t fail to deliver. The story continues straight after the conclusion of The Cuckoo Wood. Recovering from her injuries, Ripley finds herself contacted by someone she briefly met through a television debate.
Ian Hewitt has just lost his wife to terminal cancer, a woman of faith, she believed that a miracle can save her. So when she hears of a coma patient called Megan, who heals people she naturally wants to try it out for herself. Ian is dubious but goes along with his wife’s wishes, so when his wife dies the very next day after visiting the teenage Megan, his anger boils over and he sets out to discredit Megan’s gift.
Ripley finds herself in a small Welsh town, trying to stop Ian Hewitt from getting into more trouble, even though she doesn’t know him well, she is fascinated by his story and by Megan. What she finds is the town revolves around Megan, everyone in some small way benefits from her gift and they don’t take kindly to outsiders coming in and questioning the morality behind using a teenage girl to heal people.
I love M. Sean Coleman’s writing and the way he creates the small town atmosphere in his books. His description of the cliffs and the history of the town is very evocative and I could envisage the burial chamber
‘She stood for a moment, touching the cold stone, feeling the history. These ancient structures always reminded her how fleeting our time on earth was. How much had come before and how much would follow.’
I really hope there will be another Alex Ripley book.
Ian Hewitt has just lost his wife to terminal cancer, a woman of faith, she believed that a miracle can save her. So when she hears of a coma patient called Megan, who heals people she naturally wants to try it out for herself. Ian is dubious but goes along with his wife’s wishes, so when his wife dies the very next day after visiting the teenage Megan, his anger boils over and he sets out to discredit Megan’s gift.
Ripley finds herself in a small Welsh town, trying to stop Ian Hewitt from getting into more trouble, even though she doesn’t know him well, she is fascinated by his story and by Megan. What she finds is the town revolves around Megan, everyone in some small way benefits from her gift and they don’t take kindly to outsiders coming in and questioning the morality behind using a teenage girl to heal people.
I love M. Sean Coleman’s writing and the way he creates the small town atmosphere in his books. His description of the cliffs and the history of the town is very evocative and I could envisage the burial chamber
‘She stood for a moment, touching the cold stone, feeling the history. These ancient structures always reminded her how fleeting our time on earth was. How much had come before and how much would follow.’
I really hope there will be another Alex Ripley book.
December 8, 2022
I was given the opportunity to read “A Hollow Sky” thanks to bloodhound books with my honest review to be given.
So the book follows the story of a young girl in a coma that since being in the coma has been found to be a spiritual healer.. or has she ?
A distraught widower, Ian, can’t let go of the false narrative he feels his wife received and investigates to prove that it is all in-fact just a sham. Having to ask for the help from Dr Ripley the story is told by her and takes her to Wales to see if the faith healer young girl is real.
Along the way there is intimidation and missing people as Dr Ripley pokes around the small village where the young girl lives. Eventually Ian also disappears and the story then comes round full circle.
I found it to be a rather slow burner of a read with not much depth to the plot and story line. There is still ongoing situations in Dr Ripley’s life which I guess will follow through in future stories but all in all it wasn’t overwhelming read and certainly not an amazing whodunnit. It was pretty mundane and in parts a chore to get to the end as it was rather boring and predictable
So the book follows the story of a young girl in a coma that since being in the coma has been found to be a spiritual healer.. or has she ?
A distraught widower, Ian, can’t let go of the false narrative he feels his wife received and investigates to prove that it is all in-fact just a sham. Having to ask for the help from Dr Ripley the story is told by her and takes her to Wales to see if the faith healer young girl is real.
Along the way there is intimidation and missing people as Dr Ripley pokes around the small village where the young girl lives. Eventually Ian also disappears and the story then comes round full circle.
I found it to be a rather slow burner of a read with not much depth to the plot and story line. There is still ongoing situations in Dr Ripley’s life which I guess will follow through in future stories but all in all it wasn’t overwhelming read and certainly not an amazing whodunnit. It was pretty mundane and in parts a chore to get to the end as it was rather boring and predictable
November 23, 2018
Atomospherically thrilling, A Hollow Sky, the second book in the Alex Ripley Mysfery Series, doesn’t always deliver the answers you want, and therefore, keeps you turning the pages trying to learn them.
I love the characters in this book, especially Ripley and has become one of my favorite characters to read. She is amazing at what she does, and yet she still feels human.
M. Sean Coleman is brilliant with his writing craft. He has a way of setting the scene and drawing you in, so you feel as if you are actually there. He is imaginative, and knows how to write a suspense novel. I’m looking forward to reading more by him.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
I love the characters in this book, especially Ripley and has become one of my favorite characters to read. She is amazing at what she does, and yet she still feels human.
M. Sean Coleman is brilliant with his writing craft. He has a way of setting the scene and drawing you in, so you feel as if you are actually there. He is imaginative, and knows how to write a suspense novel. I’m looking forward to reading more by him.
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
December 18, 2022
This is the second Alex Ripley book and although I hadn’t read the first it didn’t seem to matter. There was some back story though so I’m definitely picking the first one now!
This is the story of Meghan, a young girl left in a comatose state following an accident. She is alleged to have healing qualities and others come to see her, hoping to be cured of ailments. However, when a woman dies after supposedly being healed, her husband stirs up a hornets nest which has deadly consequences.
I was sucked straight into this story, and could not put it down. It moves along at a very fast pace, dropping red herrings along the way. Alex Ripley is a fascinating character and I look forward to reading more novels with her in. Highly recommended.
Thank you Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
This is the story of Meghan, a young girl left in a comatose state following an accident. She is alleged to have healing qualities and others come to see her, hoping to be cured of ailments. However, when a woman dies after supposedly being healed, her husband stirs up a hornets nest which has deadly consequences.
I was sucked straight into this story, and could not put it down. It moves along at a very fast pace, dropping red herrings along the way. Alex Ripley is a fascinating character and I look forward to reading more novels with her in. Highly recommended.
Thank you Bloodhound Books for the ARC.
October 25, 2020
A Hollow Sky is the second book in the Alex Ripley series and again the author gripped me with the very first line. Dark. Dark. Dark. She’d always hated the dark.
Although this book was not as fast paced and fiery as the first, it was no less of a cracking storyline with exceptional characters.
My favourite character was by far Ian. I was in awe of the love he held for his wife, and how he wanted to avenge her death, however I thought the best written character, was Simon, the dark horse of the story, the twist at the end of the book involving him gave me whiplash, I suppose as they say, it is always the quiet ones.
Although this book was not as fast paced and fiery as the first, it was no less of a cracking storyline with exceptional characters.
My favourite character was by far Ian. I was in awe of the love he held for his wife, and how he wanted to avenge her death, however I thought the best written character, was Simon, the dark horse of the story, the twist at the end of the book involving him gave me whiplash, I suppose as they say, it is always the quiet ones.
December 5, 2022
This is the second in a series, I've not read the first but it seems this book carries on from the first story, I'll go look for the first book though, this had all the makings of a great series. Alex is asked to investigate a strange situation where a young girl, who's in a coma, is being heralded as some sort of miracle healer. It's a book where I want sure what's we were going for most of the story. I loved the ending and will absolutely by the 3rd book which I'm sure will follow. I liked that Alex is flawed herself and had questions she needs answers for, which tie into the storyline beautifully. It's hard not to give the plots away, but trust me this is a great book
December 6, 2022
This was a great thriller, with an exciting ending, that was very emotional especially at the beginning and end of the story. The first chapter makes you feel excited for what is to come. I would have liked the author to have delved into Megan’s abilities a little more, with a little more back story on some of the characters especially Megan, Megan’s mum and Alex. At times the story felt a little slow and repetitive in places, but overall I enjoyed the story and wanted to find out what would happen. I would like to read the other books in the series to find out more about Alex.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
December 17, 2022
This story comes out December 16, 2022. The paperback is available. This story of a Dr, Alex Ripley, the miracle detective was called for help by Ian Hewitt, his wife Ian did not believe in faith healer and Jane did she seek Megan Shields. You will have to read more the story to learn more about who is Megan Shield. Jane Hewitt. You will Anne she is, Megan Shield mother. Ian Hewitt, and Alex Ripley. You will see other characters, Detective Harding, Simon Butcher, Gareth Willimas, Caroline Clifton. This is a story of intrigue, compelling, and exciting to wonder what going on inside this engrossing storyline of the plot twist of life and death. I hope you enjoy reading this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2022
A really slow start to the story nearly had me giving up but I am glad that I stuck with it as it develops and becomes a fairly fast paced thriller.
For me the ending wasn’t satisfactory- I think I’m too used to all loose ends being neatly squared away - but it leaves the opportunity for a third book to link back to this one, which I think would be really enjoyable.
A word to the wise though. If you like to read a series through from book one onwards, you really need to read the earlier tale first, as there so many throwback comments that reading the first book seems a waste of time despite how well this one is written.
Well worth a read.
For me the ending wasn’t satisfactory- I think I’m too used to all loose ends being neatly squared away - but it leaves the opportunity for a third book to link back to this one, which I think would be really enjoyable.
A word to the wise though. If you like to read a series through from book one onwards, you really need to read the earlier tale first, as there so many throwback comments that reading the first book seems a waste of time despite how well this one is written.
Well worth a read.
December 16, 2022
I enjoyed reading this suspenseful story. This is a new author for me which I enjoyed. i look forward to seeing what is next for them. This is a well written story that has twists and turns like no other. It brings suspense to a new level. I enjoyed how the characters are not only connectable but pulled me into their world from the start. This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down. It has great growth throughout the story and the characters just added to the entertaining part of it. I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book.
December 9, 2022
An interesting read with lots of intrigue to be a very well written page turner. Who is lying, and who can be trusted? Do miracles happen, or is it a big fraud? And what has happened to the missing women? Can Alex get to the bottom of what is going on?
An excellent crime mystery novel well worth reading and escaping to the coast of Holy Island.
I was given an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion
An excellent crime mystery novel well worth reading and escaping to the coast of Holy Island.
I was given an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion
December 3, 2022
What a book! Read in two sittings (as I had to go to work). Very atmospheric and the writing brings you right into the action. Twists galore and an ending that is worthy of the fabulous story telling. You don't have to have read book 1 - I haven't but I plan to search it out and add to my TBR pile. Great read.
December 6, 2022
Loved it! The subject matter isn’t one I would usually choose, myself holding a healthy dose of skepticism to religion/faith healing, the whole deal! Turned out this was the ideal book for me, fast paced with out any unnecessary padding, the story kept me hooked throughout and the characters were so well written, strong emotions were formed for many of them, especially the Reverend!
December 11, 2022
When Jane dies days after being “cured” by a faith healer her husband struggles to come to terms with the situation. He turns to Dr Ripley for help in outing the faith healer but they unearth more than they bargained for and put themselves in danger by trying uncover the truth. A well written and gripping novel.
December 14, 2022
I received this book for free from Bloodhounds Books.
This book kept me gripped the whole time.
It was tense.
I haven't read the first book in the series, but I don't feel it's necessary to enjoy this book.
This book kept me gripped the whole time.
It was tense.
I haven't read the first book in the series, but I don't feel it's necessary to enjoy this book.
January 16, 2023
I read this book as a stand alone and really really need to read the first one now!
This book had me hooked from first chapter to the brilliant end. The characters were very believable, the pace was excellent and I just loved reading it and can't wait to read more by this author.
This book had me hooked from first chapter to the brilliant end. The characters were very believable, the pace was excellent and I just loved reading it and can't wait to read more by this author.
November 14, 2018
Excellent read. Review to come
November 20, 2018
Took a bit of getting into but once I did, I was gripped, couldn't put it down. Great plot and main character.
September 13, 2020
Another amazing tale from M.Sean Coleman with Dr Alex Ripley. A highly recommended second in the series.
It’s full of suspense and intrigue, twisting and turning to keep you guessing until the end.
It’s full of suspense and intrigue, twisting and turning to keep you guessing until the end.
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