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A Year in the Life of Leah Brand
Leah’s nightmare began the day the dog died.
A few years earlier a fatal car crash took the lives of Leah’s beloved husband and their two babies, leaving her disabled. Life looked bleak. She was approaching forty, unemployed, broke and desperate.
Then she met Mason. He was charming, charismatic, persuasive, and a successful businessman, well respected in the community. His teenage daughter did nothing to welcome Leah into the family, but life is never perfect.
Then, two years into her second marriage, Leah Brand’s world is turned upside down; inanimate objects in the house move, her clothes are left out for the rubbish collection, pieces of furniture change places, there are unexplained noises and hauntings.
As the disturbances increase, everyone accuses Leah of losing her mind. Soon she begins to doubt herself and she starts to spiral down into a world of insanity. Is she going mad, or is someone out to destroy her? And if so, why?
A gripping, psychological thriller for fans of Mary Higgins Clarke and Louise Jensen.
A few years earlier a fatal car crash took the lives of Leah’s beloved husband and their two babies, leaving her disabled. Life looked bleak. She was approaching forty, unemployed, broke and desperate.
Then she met Mason. He was charming, charismatic, persuasive, and a successful businessman, well respected in the community. His teenage daughter did nothing to welcome Leah into the family, but life is never perfect.
Then, two years into her second marriage, Leah Brand’s world is turned upside down; inanimate objects in the house move, her clothes are left out for the rubbish collection, pieces of furniture change places, there are unexplained noises and hauntings.
As the disturbances increase, everyone accuses Leah of losing her mind. Soon she begins to doubt herself and she starts to spiral down into a world of insanity. Is she going mad, or is someone out to destroy her? And if so, why?
A gripping, psychological thriller for fans of Mary Higgins Clarke and Louise Jensen.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2019
239 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Lucinda E. Clarke
26 books157 followersBorn in Dublin, matured in England, wanted to follow grandfather into Fleet Street, family not wildly enthusiastic - unfeminine, unreliable and dangerous. Went to dockland Liverpool - safe, respectable and pensionable. Returned south with teaching qualifications, extremely good at self defence. Went crofting in Scotland, bred Cairn Terriers among other things. Moved to Kenya with 7 week old daughter, abandoned in the bush. On to Libya, surviving riots, public hangings, imprisoned husband and eventual deportation. Queued with the unemployed millions in UK. Moved to Botswana - still teaching - opened and ran the worst riding school in the world,- with ‘How to...’ book in hand.
Moved south to South Africa taught for four years, then in 1986 became a full time freelance writer, for major corporations, UNESCO, UNICEF and the South African Broadcasting Corporation for both radio and television. Moving into video production in 1986, received over 20 awards, specializing in education, documentaries, municipal and government, one script for National Geographic.
Returned UK Jan 1994, back to SA before April elections.
Taught in 7 countries, including Britain, Kenya, France, Libya, Botswana, Swaziland and South Africa. Also found time to breed animals for pet shops, write a newspaper column, publish two books, Heinneman & Macmillan, and work for several years as a radio announcer. Married with two daughters, a stepson and stepdaughter, moved to Spain in 2008. I now write a monthly column and have published two more books, a memoir and an adventure story set in Africa.
Moved south to South Africa taught for four years, then in 1986 became a full time freelance writer, for major corporations, UNESCO, UNICEF and the South African Broadcasting Corporation for both radio and television. Moving into video production in 1986, received over 20 awards, specializing in education, documentaries, municipal and government, one script for National Geographic.
Returned UK Jan 1994, back to SA before April elections.
Taught in 7 countries, including Britain, Kenya, France, Libya, Botswana, Swaziland and South Africa. Also found time to breed animals for pet shops, write a newspaper column, publish two books, Heinneman & Macmillan, and work for several years as a radio announcer. Married with two daughters, a stepson and stepdaughter, moved to Spain in 2008. I now write a monthly column and have published two more books, a memoir and an adventure story set in Africa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
November 7, 2021
“The nightmare began on the day the dog died.”
After an accident took her husband, two children and one leg, Leah Brand thought she’d found a new life with Mason.
A lawyer, Mason started to change after the dog died. He had little time for Leah, always dealing with his clients, short tempered and distant, coming home and going to his office.
Leah had a difficult time dealing with Mason’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Belinda, who lived with them. Belinda never listened to anything Leah said to her and started having difficulty at school which Mason blamed on Leah.
Leah had suffered from depression after the accident that took her family and leg. As the problems in her new marriage manifested themselves, the depression began to return. And with the depression came misplaced items, moved items, and the appearance of objects that weren’t in their house before.
Leah tries to kickstart her education, taking classes as well as reading a book by a specialist on self-help. Spending time at a local library, Leah is friended by a handsome librarian. She enjoys his company and nothing else.
Leah’s neighbor, Andrea, wealthy and alone and doesn’t like Mason, offers Leah a caring shoulder to lean on, taking her on short retreats to forget her problems.
But as things continue to go missing or get re-arranged in the house with everyone blaming Leah, saying she must have moved them without remembering, Leah sees a doctor to be tested for a breakdown. Her depression and tears slowly push everyone away from her and Leah begins to feel more and more alone.
A Year In The Life Of Leah Brand is a wonderful psychological thriller for those who love these kinds of books. The reader is never quite sure if Leah is breaking down and blacking out and forgetting things or if someone or her family and friends are conspiring against her. Great read. Enjoyed.
After an accident took her husband, two children and one leg, Leah Brand thought she’d found a new life with Mason.
A lawyer, Mason started to change after the dog died. He had little time for Leah, always dealing with his clients, short tempered and distant, coming home and going to his office.
Leah had a difficult time dealing with Mason’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Belinda, who lived with them. Belinda never listened to anything Leah said to her and started having difficulty at school which Mason blamed on Leah.
Leah had suffered from depression after the accident that took her family and leg. As the problems in her new marriage manifested themselves, the depression began to return. And with the depression came misplaced items, moved items, and the appearance of objects that weren’t in their house before.
Leah tries to kickstart her education, taking classes as well as reading a book by a specialist on self-help. Spending time at a local library, Leah is friended by a handsome librarian. She enjoys his company and nothing else.
Leah’s neighbor, Andrea, wealthy and alone and doesn’t like Mason, offers Leah a caring shoulder to lean on, taking her on short retreats to forget her problems.
But as things continue to go missing or get re-arranged in the house with everyone blaming Leah, saying she must have moved them without remembering, Leah sees a doctor to be tested for a breakdown. Her depression and tears slowly push everyone away from her and Leah begins to feel more and more alone.
A Year In The Life Of Leah Brand is a wonderful psychological thriller for those who love these kinds of books. The reader is never quite sure if Leah is breaking down and blacking out and forgetting things or if someone or her family and friends are conspiring against her. Great read. Enjoyed.
November 18, 2020
I thought this was a terrible book. The main character was a drip, no-one would put up with the behaviour that was displayed by her husband and step daughter. The plot was highly unbelievable and unless I missed something a husband can't just have you committed on his own. I'm all for a good story but this was to far a stretch of the imagination.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2019
You know how sometimes things disappear then, hours or days later, they turn up in some place you would have never thought of looking in? We've all been there. But when it keeps happening, so often that you begin to think you are losing your mind – that's when something close to paranoia sets in. And that's how this year in Leah's life drifts from routine to strange to terrifying.
I had the pleasure of reading an early version of this book. If, like me, you are familiar with Ms Clarke's other work, especially her series about Amie's various African adventures, you will find that this switch of genre is at the same time, refreshing, yet familiar. The setting is suburban England, very different to the savanna's and urban jungles of Africa. Where Amie is resilient and resourcefull, Leah is vulnerable. Still recovering from a terrible car crash in which she lost a limb and two children, she is ripe for exploitation by people entirely lacking in scruples.
As vulnerable and trusting as she is, Leah has not lost her sense of humour which allows Ms Clarke to display her talent for some very witty writing which her many fans will enjoy. At times I found Leah's casual laughing off of the calamities that the year brings a little too flippant, but that is one of the most loveable features of Ms Clarke's style. Fortunately Leah's Annus Horriblis has a happy ending, but not before we readers have experienced a thoroughly enjoyable roller coaster ride at her expense.
I had the pleasure of reading an early version of this book. If, like me, you are familiar with Ms Clarke's other work, especially her series about Amie's various African adventures, you will find that this switch of genre is at the same time, refreshing, yet familiar. The setting is suburban England, very different to the savanna's and urban jungles of Africa. Where Amie is resilient and resourcefull, Leah is vulnerable. Still recovering from a terrible car crash in which she lost a limb and two children, she is ripe for exploitation by people entirely lacking in scruples.
As vulnerable and trusting as she is, Leah has not lost her sense of humour which allows Ms Clarke to display her talent for some very witty writing which her many fans will enjoy. At times I found Leah's casual laughing off of the calamities that the year brings a little too flippant, but that is one of the most loveable features of Ms Clarke's style. Fortunately Leah's Annus Horriblis has a happy ending, but not before we readers have experienced a thoroughly enjoyable roller coaster ride at her expense.
September 10, 2021
Leah is almost 40, unemployed, & married to her second husband following the tragic deaths of her first family in a car accident which left Leah with a prosthetic leg. When the family dog is found dead, Leah's husband Mason seems to change from the charismatic loving husband into someone she barely recognises. Everything she does is wrong, her stepdaughter seems to hate her, & when things start being moved around at home (clothes being rearranged, drawers & cupboards emptied onto the floor), Leah becomes convinced she is suffering from early onset dementia. Is Leah losing her grip on reality or is something even more sinister happening?
I found the writing style engaging and the pace of the plot kept me reading, however, Leah seemed to be portrayed as much older than 'almost 40', with almost no computer or social media knowledge. I had to keep reminding myself the character was only 39. I also found her way, way too passive & naïve, to the point of irritation. I understand that her upbringing & earlier experiences shaped her personality, but she just kept denying what was happening. I would definitely read one of the author's other books as it may have just been this particular character that was not for me. I didn't really get the ending either, so I rated this one 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3).
I received a free copy of the ebook from the author via Voracious Readers Only, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I found the writing style engaging and the pace of the plot kept me reading, however, Leah seemed to be portrayed as much older than 'almost 40', with almost no computer or social media knowledge. I had to keep reminding myself the character was only 39. I also found her way, way too passive & naïve, to the point of irritation. I understand that her upbringing & earlier experiences shaped her personality, but she just kept denying what was happening. I would definitely read one of the author's other books as it may have just been this particular character that was not for me. I didn't really get the ending either, so I rated this one 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3).
I received a free copy of the ebook from the author via Voracious Readers Only, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 14, 2019
A cracking good read by Lucinda E Clarke. I beta read this book for the author and was completely gripped by it. I should say I don't normally like psychological thrillers as they tend to be very disturbing, but this one had me hooked from the first page. It IS disturbing and I felt I was becoming unhinged right along with Leah, but it was completely unputdownable. Leah is an ordinary woman who has been gifted a new start after a terrible tragedy, but that doesn't make her any more or less than a normal, every day person. However, with the events that follow the death of her husband's dog, she is launched into some very frightening situations with strange things happening all around her. In her efforts to find out who or what is trying to drive her mad, she is very close to actually becoming so. A thoroughly compelling (and nail-biting) book.
August 16, 2019
I have loved all this author's books, so was eager to check this one out, being such a change in genre to her previous work.
I hate this woman. I mean the author, not Leah the protagonist in the book.
I’m quite a slow reader so on Wednesday night I just read the first two chapters. It sounded good. Thursday night I went to bed earlier than usual to carry on with it. It was after half past four in the morning before I forced myself to put my iPad down to try and get some sleep.
I don’t normally read during the day but Friday morning had to carry on with it, almost making myself late for an appointment. I rushed home afterwards, glued myself to a chair and finished it.
What a story! I loved it. Real edge of your seat stuff. And there simply has to be a sequel.
But I need my sleep, Lucinda E Clarke, so can you please take it a bit easier on the next one?
I hate this woman. I mean the author, not Leah the protagonist in the book.
I’m quite a slow reader so on Wednesday night I just read the first two chapters. It sounded good. Thursday night I went to bed earlier than usual to carry on with it. It was after half past four in the morning before I forced myself to put my iPad down to try and get some sleep.
I don’t normally read during the day but Friday morning had to carry on with it, almost making myself late for an appointment. I rushed home afterwards, glued myself to a chair and finished it.
What a story! I loved it. Real edge of your seat stuff. And there simply has to be a sequel.
But I need my sleep, Lucinda E Clarke, so can you please take it a bit easier on the next one?
August 15, 2019
A vulnerable woman with a history of tragedy. A new husband with a difficult daughter, and an ex-wife and lover. A dysfunctional family scattered across the globe. All a recipe for cracking good novel.
The plot will draw you in, wanting to find out what is going on behind the unpleasant things happening to Leah.
Breaking away from her usual genre, the experienced writer Lucinda E Clarke, has written a humdinger of a psychological thriller with a riveting plot and an unexpected twist.
Highly recommended.
The plot will draw you in, wanting to find out what is going on behind the unpleasant things happening to Leah.
Breaking away from her usual genre, the experienced writer Lucinda E Clarke, has written a humdinger of a psychological thriller with a riveting plot and an unexpected twist.
Highly recommended.
October 24, 2020
I purchased a copy of this novel that I am also reviewing it as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team.
I have been a follower of the author’s blog for some time, and I know that she has been a writer (among many other things) for a long time, in different genres, although this was the first time she published a psychological thriller. Having read many great reviews of this novel and the other two in the series, I was intrigued as this is one of my favourite genres.
I find this review quite difficult to write, because I don’t think I am the ideal reader for this book. I am sure people who don’t work in mental health and don’t read as many thrillers as I do will not have the same issues I had. Let me clarify. Clarke knows how to write, for sure. She builds up the tension slowly, creates credible (they might be annoying and irritating at time, but that is what makes them real) characters, has a great sense of rhythm and pace (things seem to be happening slowly at first, then get increasingly faster; we have breaks to allow us to catch our breath, and then things get even weirder and scarier), and piles up ambiguous evidence that can be interpreted in different ways. She also chooses well the point of view of the story; it is told in the first person (so readers who don’t like first-person narratives, be warned) from Leah’s perspective, and that allows us to experience all her doubts, hesitations, and to witness events through her eyes. Due to the nature of the story, that works perfectly well, as it manages to keep the surprises well-hidden. (I suspected what was happening from early on, but then… No, no spoilers).
However, some aspects of the plot stretched too much my suspension of disbelief, to the point where the story lost some of its hold on me. As a habitual reader of thrillers and police procedural novels, I do prefer books on those genres to be —even when the events might be rather extreme— fairly realistic when it comes to details and settings, unless they blend genres or take place in an alternative universe. For me, this book seems to fit into the domestic noir category that has become quite popular in recent years, and I am slowly coming to the realisation that this genre is not a great fit for me. I have similar issues with it as I have with cozy mysteries: I like the premise; in some cases I really enjoy the story and the characters; but there are aspects that don’t work for me, mostly to do with the actual mystery.
I won’t go into a lot of detail about the plot, to avoid spoilers and also because the description offers readers enough information already. My favourite character was Aunt Deidre. Leah, the protagonist, has survived such tough and dramatic circumstances that it’s impossible not to sympathise with her, but I must admit to finding her annoying at times and wanting to grab her and force her to take charge of things, while at the same time imagining how hard it would be to have to face what she was going through, feeling so helpless after being undermined at every turn. Most of the other characters are dislikeable or ambiguous (they seem to blow hot and cold or are nasty most of the time), and there are some we don’t get to know too well, but, of course, as we see everything from the character’s perspective, sometimes it’s difficult to extricate what is what (and that’s the point, evidently).
As I said, the book is well-written, the pacing, the clues and red-herrings build-up and grab reader’s attention, and there is no excess violence or any explicit sex scenes. The thrill (or the threat) is mostly psychological, and the effect on Leah’s character and self-confidence are compellingly portrayed. The self-doubts and her hesitation ring true as well.
I’ve already said that some of my issues with the believability of the story are probably due to my experience working as a psychiatrist in the UK, and that means that some of the details of the story don’t work for me, but that shouldn’t put off other prospective readers. I also found there was a twist too many in the story, and that’s all I’ll say about the ending.
After reading a sample of Clarke’s Amie: African Adventure, I am sure I’ll be reading more of her books, but perhaps in other genres.
This is a page-turner and I’m sure readers of domestic noir who prefer stories with no explicit violence, love a first-person narrative and an ambiguous/unreliable narrator, will enjoy this story. A fun and fast read, but not exactly what I was looking for.
I have been a follower of the author’s blog for some time, and I know that she has been a writer (among many other things) for a long time, in different genres, although this was the first time she published a psychological thriller. Having read many great reviews of this novel and the other two in the series, I was intrigued as this is one of my favourite genres.
I find this review quite difficult to write, because I don’t think I am the ideal reader for this book. I am sure people who don’t work in mental health and don’t read as many thrillers as I do will not have the same issues I had. Let me clarify. Clarke knows how to write, for sure. She builds up the tension slowly, creates credible (they might be annoying and irritating at time, but that is what makes them real) characters, has a great sense of rhythm and pace (things seem to be happening slowly at first, then get increasingly faster; we have breaks to allow us to catch our breath, and then things get even weirder and scarier), and piles up ambiguous evidence that can be interpreted in different ways. She also chooses well the point of view of the story; it is told in the first person (so readers who don’t like first-person narratives, be warned) from Leah’s perspective, and that allows us to experience all her doubts, hesitations, and to witness events through her eyes. Due to the nature of the story, that works perfectly well, as it manages to keep the surprises well-hidden. (I suspected what was happening from early on, but then… No, no spoilers).
However, some aspects of the plot stretched too much my suspension of disbelief, to the point where the story lost some of its hold on me. As a habitual reader of thrillers and police procedural novels, I do prefer books on those genres to be —even when the events might be rather extreme— fairly realistic when it comes to details and settings, unless they blend genres or take place in an alternative universe. For me, this book seems to fit into the domestic noir category that has become quite popular in recent years, and I am slowly coming to the realisation that this genre is not a great fit for me. I have similar issues with it as I have with cozy mysteries: I like the premise; in some cases I really enjoy the story and the characters; but there are aspects that don’t work for me, mostly to do with the actual mystery.
I won’t go into a lot of detail about the plot, to avoid spoilers and also because the description offers readers enough information already. My favourite character was Aunt Deidre. Leah, the protagonist, has survived such tough and dramatic circumstances that it’s impossible not to sympathise with her, but I must admit to finding her annoying at times and wanting to grab her and force her to take charge of things, while at the same time imagining how hard it would be to have to face what she was going through, feeling so helpless after being undermined at every turn. Most of the other characters are dislikeable or ambiguous (they seem to blow hot and cold or are nasty most of the time), and there are some we don’t get to know too well, but, of course, as we see everything from the character’s perspective, sometimes it’s difficult to extricate what is what (and that’s the point, evidently).
As I said, the book is well-written, the pacing, the clues and red-herrings build-up and grab reader’s attention, and there is no excess violence or any explicit sex scenes. The thrill (or the threat) is mostly psychological, and the effect on Leah’s character and self-confidence are compellingly portrayed. The self-doubts and her hesitation ring true as well.
I’ve already said that some of my issues with the believability of the story are probably due to my experience working as a psychiatrist in the UK, and that means that some of the details of the story don’t work for me, but that shouldn’t put off other prospective readers. I also found there was a twist too many in the story, and that’s all I’ll say about the ending.
After reading a sample of Clarke’s Amie: African Adventure, I am sure I’ll be reading more of her books, but perhaps in other genres.
This is a page-turner and I’m sure readers of domestic noir who prefer stories with no explicit violence, love a first-person narrative and an ambiguous/unreliable narrator, will enjoy this story. A fun and fast read, but not exactly what I was looking for.
March 6, 2021
Who’s behind the creepy occurrences?
That was a fast read. The events were retailed monthly, and if I’m not mistaken, only October seemed to be a good one. The one-year time in Leah’s life was full of emotional and psychological abuse. Are all the unexplained events, noises, and moving of objects a result of some paranormal events or a distorted perception of a person with mental health?
Mason, Leah’s second husband, is cruel and mean. Belinda, her step-daughter, is the worse version of a teenager, and Leah's mother has dementia, and maybe she is showing too early signs of it. Who or what is behind the questionable occurrences?
I am sorry to say that I didn’t like any of the characters, not even Leah. But that didn’t diminish my interest in the story. I think Leah didn't like herself much at times: “I was so ungrateful for the life I led. So many people had nothing, so many were starving, homeless, desperate or abused. What the hell had I to be miserable about?”
Through the middle of the book, I got hooked. It showed great promise, but I was somehow disappointed with the conclusion. It felt a bit rushed, and some of the things didn’t add up.
My rating: 3.5 (rounded up)
That was a fast read. The events were retailed monthly, and if I’m not mistaken, only October seemed to be a good one. The one-year time in Leah’s life was full of emotional and psychological abuse. Are all the unexplained events, noises, and moving of objects a result of some paranormal events or a distorted perception of a person with mental health?
Mason, Leah’s second husband, is cruel and mean. Belinda, her step-daughter, is the worse version of a teenager, and Leah's mother has dementia, and maybe she is showing too early signs of it. Who or what is behind the questionable occurrences?
I am sorry to say that I didn’t like any of the characters, not even Leah. But that didn’t diminish my interest in the story. I think Leah didn't like herself much at times: “I was so ungrateful for the life I led. So many people had nothing, so many were starving, homeless, desperate or abused. What the hell had I to be miserable about?”
Through the middle of the book, I got hooked. It showed great promise, but I was somehow disappointed with the conclusion. It felt a bit rushed, and some of the things didn’t add up.
My rating: 3.5 (rounded up)
June 12, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the author through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
Absolutely loved this book. The book is divided into the months of the year and starts with the line "The nightmare began on the day the dog died!"
Once her husband's beloved dog dies on New Year's Day, bizzare things start to happen in Leah's life which make her wonder if she is going mad...or is someone determined to send her that way?! Things in the house are being rearranged, she hears voices and then there is the appearance and constant reappearance of the 'blue rabbit'! I couldn't wait to read the next month (chapter) to find out if Leah was really going mad or to discover who else may be behind the mysteries. The author, cleverly keeps you guessing and everyone ultimately becomes a possible suspect! No one is to be believed or trusted!!
Towards the end there is a 'double twist' in the story. The first seems to explain what has been going on, then the second blows that theory completely out of the water and leaves lots of unanswered questions. This also leaves the reader wanting to read the sequels, which I will certainly be doing next! Brilliant writing by Lucinda Clarke. Highly recommended read.
Absolutely loved this book. The book is divided into the months of the year and starts with the line "The nightmare began on the day the dog died!"
Once her husband's beloved dog dies on New Year's Day, bizzare things start to happen in Leah's life which make her wonder if she is going mad...or is someone determined to send her that way?! Things in the house are being rearranged, she hears voices and then there is the appearance and constant reappearance of the 'blue rabbit'! I couldn't wait to read the next month (chapter) to find out if Leah was really going mad or to discover who else may be behind the mysteries. The author, cleverly keeps you guessing and everyone ultimately becomes a possible suspect! No one is to be believed or trusted!!
Towards the end there is a 'double twist' in the story. The first seems to explain what has been going on, then the second blows that theory completely out of the water and leaves lots of unanswered questions. This also leaves the reader wanting to read the sequels, which I will certainly be doing next! Brilliant writing by Lucinda Clarke. Highly recommended read.
April 30, 2020
Suspense with a Humorous Core
Leah Brand has a dreadful year. From her husband’s beloved dog dying, everything turns out wrong and frightening. Leah comes to doubt her sanity and with good reason. Not because she is insane or anywhere near to it. Ms Clarke shows what mental abuse can do to its victims. Throughout the story, Ms Clarke keeps a light touch and a humorous tone, which makes the suspense elements all the creepier. Recommended.
Leah Brand has a dreadful year. From her husband’s beloved dog dying, everything turns out wrong and frightening. Leah comes to doubt her sanity and with good reason. Not because she is insane or anywhere near to it. Ms Clarke shows what mental abuse can do to its victims. Throughout the story, Ms Clarke keeps a light touch and a humorous tone, which makes the suspense elements all the creepier. Recommended.
September 22, 2020
Wow! This is a thrilling book. In fact it's downright scary how bad this woman's life is AND just when I thought she'd hit rock bottom... you get the point without me telling you the details. Leah is written so well it's spooky.
This book does deal with a few touchy subjects - such as mental health and abuse.
This book does deal with a few touchy subjects - such as mental health and abuse.
May 27, 2021
This was a very entertaining read and I really appreciated the way it was written in month chapters. This was my first read by this author and won't be the last. There really does need to be a sequel.
I was given a free copy by voracious readers and the author but the review is entirely my own
I was given a free copy by voracious readers and the author but the review is entirely my own
February 3, 2021
I don’t even know where to begin. I was hoping to like this but things definitely didn’t turn out that way. I really can’t tolerate weak-willed characters and the excessive gaslighting in the story was too much. I felt bad for Leah as the traumas she had been through were heartbreaking. I found myself cringing for a majority of the story. And then for the ending...everything was wrapped up too quickly with a crooked bow. Not only that, Leah decides to become buddies again with Andrea, someone who literally plotted against her with Mason to try and gaslight Leah into believing she was going insane. Just unbelievable. And not in a “ooo, that was so twisty” type of way. Just messy and completely unbelievable.
The way Mason and Belinda treated Leah throughout the book was extremely abusive and irritating to read through. I kept wishing their characters would somehow be killed off. Only to find out Belinda was actually on Leah’s “side” all along and was scared of her father? Christ almighty that is stretching it too far. It’s one thing being unkind to someone but this was emotional abuse. I hated that Leah always second-guessed herself and thought she was overreacting when her behavior was actually under-reactive. Super frustrating.
I wouldn’t call this a thriller. There’s nothing I found interesting or thrilling about it. I very much had to force myself to finish this one. I’m sorry to say that I wouldn’t recommend this.
Rating: 1/5 stars.
*thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book via voracious readers in exchange for an honest review*
The way Mason and Belinda treated Leah throughout the book was extremely abusive and irritating to read through. I kept wishing their characters would somehow be killed off. Only to find out Belinda was actually on Leah’s “side” all along and was scared of her father? Christ almighty that is stretching it too far. It’s one thing being unkind to someone but this was emotional abuse. I hated that Leah always second-guessed herself and thought she was overreacting when her behavior was actually under-reactive. Super frustrating.
I wouldn’t call this a thriller. There’s nothing I found interesting or thrilling about it. I very much had to force myself to finish this one. I’m sorry to say that I wouldn’t recommend this.
Rating: 1/5 stars.
*thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book via voracious readers in exchange for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2022
From the opening line 'The nightmare began on the day the dog died', I knew I was in for some surprises and Lucinda Clarke certainly delivered plenty of them.
Leah was disabled and lost her husband and young children in a car accident. Struggling to cope, she marries the loathsome Mason who can provide her with material wealth but treats her appallingly – as does his teenage daughter Belinda. Early on in the book, Leah wonders if she’d be happier on her own but unfortunately doesn’t follow through with this. The advice that the author gives through the self help book is good, but isn’t applied and Leah lurches from one crisis to another.
There were plenty of things that rang true to me. I’ve witnessed the behaviour of women like her mother who suffers from dementia and can be wild and unpredictable. I’m also familiar with the syndrome that 'often the child that does everything for the parent is the despised and berated offspring'. There were other nice observations throughout the book.
Most of the characters are difficult to like with the exceptions of Aunt Deirdre and Bill. I loved Deirdre’s character and would like to have seen more of her.
This is a psychological thriller and we experience, through Leah’s eyes, the anxiety caused by the inexplicable changing of things in the house and other strange events. She doesn’t know if she’s being gaslighted or if she’s losing her mind. The suspense builds and, like Leah, we don’t know who to trust anymore – not even Leah herself.
I like books with a definite ending and this one left several loose ends dangling. I’m aware that there’s at least three other books in the series and I’ll certainly read the next one.
Leah was disabled and lost her husband and young children in a car accident. Struggling to cope, she marries the loathsome Mason who can provide her with material wealth but treats her appallingly – as does his teenage daughter Belinda. Early on in the book, Leah wonders if she’d be happier on her own but unfortunately doesn’t follow through with this. The advice that the author gives through the self help book is good, but isn’t applied and Leah lurches from one crisis to another.
There were plenty of things that rang true to me. I’ve witnessed the behaviour of women like her mother who suffers from dementia and can be wild and unpredictable. I’m also familiar with the syndrome that 'often the child that does everything for the parent is the despised and berated offspring'. There were other nice observations throughout the book.
Most of the characters are difficult to like with the exceptions of Aunt Deirdre and Bill. I loved Deirdre’s character and would like to have seen more of her.
This is a psychological thriller and we experience, through Leah’s eyes, the anxiety caused by the inexplicable changing of things in the house and other strange events. She doesn’t know if she’s being gaslighted or if she’s losing her mind. The suspense builds and, like Leah, we don’t know who to trust anymore – not even Leah herself.
I like books with a definite ending and this one left several loose ends dangling. I’m aware that there’s at least three other books in the series and I’ll certainly read the next one.
July 11, 2020
A tense thriller that hurtles towards a cliff…..
I don’t think that I could have lived through the year that Leah Brandt did in this psychological thriller by Lucinda Clarke. Even when attempting to deal with the events and doubts that are causing such mayhem, in a rational way, Leah is drawn deeper and deeper into madness.
Surely this woman has already faced enough tragedy in her life? To lose your family and become disabled, would by daunting enough. However, it would seem that the fates have not finished with her just yet.
We are carried along on a roller coaster ride over the year, as each of the main characters, her dismissive new husband Mason, his stroppy teenage daughter Belinda and the seemingly warm and supportive next door neighbour Andrea Coe, all adding levels of manipulation, rejection and secrecy. There is little respite, even in her mother’s home where she might have assumed to be free of the disturbing goings on in her own house. Layer upon layer of self-doubt results in a crisis of identity, and it is painful but compelling to watch the spiralling descent into despair.
The characters were all well drawn and it was easy to have very clear opinions about their personalities. At times you almost you could reach into the pages and make your presence felt with a few choice words….. it is not easy to stand by and see someone being victimised and to remember this is a story!
Who is behind this personal vendetta and why? Will Leah be saved from this train wreck of her life? Who can you trust? I recommend that you read the book for yourself….
I don’t think that I could have lived through the year that Leah Brandt did in this psychological thriller by Lucinda Clarke. Even when attempting to deal with the events and doubts that are causing such mayhem, in a rational way, Leah is drawn deeper and deeper into madness.
Surely this woman has already faced enough tragedy in her life? To lose your family and become disabled, would by daunting enough. However, it would seem that the fates have not finished with her just yet.
We are carried along on a roller coaster ride over the year, as each of the main characters, her dismissive new husband Mason, his stroppy teenage daughter Belinda and the seemingly warm and supportive next door neighbour Andrea Coe, all adding levels of manipulation, rejection and secrecy. There is little respite, even in her mother’s home where she might have assumed to be free of the disturbing goings on in her own house. Layer upon layer of self-doubt results in a crisis of identity, and it is painful but compelling to watch the spiralling descent into despair.
The characters were all well drawn and it was easy to have very clear opinions about their personalities. At times you almost you could reach into the pages and make your presence felt with a few choice words….. it is not easy to stand by and see someone being victimised and to remember this is a story!
Who is behind this personal vendetta and why? Will Leah be saved from this train wreck of her life? Who can you trust? I recommend that you read the book for yourself….
March 6, 2021
I received a free copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only, in exchange for an honest review.
I don't often read psychological thrillers or even particularly suspenseful novels, so I was keen to try it out with this book. I was immediately interested in the concept and to begin with, I was very interested in this book. I did find it difficult to fully engage however, as the book seemed to drag in some places but was then rushed in others. I couldn't fully relate to any of the characters in Leah's life, as they all seemed so entirely unsympathetic.
I was quite ready to accept the conclusion to the story, despite a few of the details not quite ringing true (the connection to the dog frustrated me entirely). However, this outcome was completely undermined by the epilogue. I appreciate that the epilogue was likely written to set up the story for the next book but it rather put me off completely.
I don't often read psychological thrillers or even particularly suspenseful novels, so I was keen to try it out with this book. I was immediately interested in the concept and to begin with, I was very interested in this book. I did find it difficult to fully engage however, as the book seemed to drag in some places but was then rushed in others. I couldn't fully relate to any of the characters in Leah's life, as they all seemed so entirely unsympathetic.
I was quite ready to accept the conclusion to the story, despite a few of the details not quite ringing true (the connection to the dog frustrated me entirely). However, this outcome was completely undermined by the epilogue. I appreciate that the epilogue was likely written to set up the story for the next book but it rather put me off completely.
August 21, 2019
Suitable for teens, upwards!
A Year in the Life of Leah Brand by Lucinda E Clarke is an adeptly written psychological thriller. Clarke does a first-class job of showing the reader how destructive and/or debilitating mental abuse can be, as the victim often struggles to prove it has happened/is happening. Alongside, this Clarke also proficiently writes about mental illness & the way, in which, Dementia not only affects the person who has been diagnosed, but their family & friends as well.
The ending is satisfying, but I believe it paves the way for a follow-on book. - Well I can only hope so!
A Year in the Life of Leah Brand by Lucinda E Clarke is an adeptly written psychological thriller. Clarke does a first-class job of showing the reader how destructive and/or debilitating mental abuse can be, as the victim often struggles to prove it has happened/is happening. Alongside, this Clarke also proficiently writes about mental illness & the way, in which, Dementia not only affects the person who has been diagnosed, but their family & friends as well.
The ending is satisfying, but I believe it paves the way for a follow-on book. - Well I can only hope so!
May 3, 2024
In A Year In The Life Of Leah Brand by Lucinda Clark follows Leah she was once married to a loving husband named James with two beautiful children Brandon and Henrietta until the night of the accident that left her alone and missing one of her legs. After months of depression she met Evan a single father to Leo who lived in Australia and Belinda his teenage daughter who by the way had no respect for Lee and always met her kindness with sneers, taunts and more disrespect but Leah powered on she loved her husband and believe he loved her. On New Year’s Eve however when the dog died, then the strange events started happening in this included Evans wild and massive mood swings. Had it not been for her best friend Lee didn’t think she could cope. Not to mention her trips to the library where she met her good friend Bill but things still only got worse. Can Leah get away from her narcissistic husband or will the end be something she doesn’t see coming? I just want to say I loved and hated Leah I found her to be smart well put together some things she did I thought was dumb I understand not wanting to be alone but I would rather be alone than be treated the way she was by Evan and Belinda and for that whole ending which I won’t discuss because I don’t want to give away any great twist I almost found it hard to believe although I did love it until the epilogue I am definitely reading the next book in the series and I will read it soon this book is twisty and has more ups and downs The a voting chart I truly enjoyed this book and although I found it long I can say I read it all in one setting because I couldn’t put it down. Truly enjoyed this book I received it from voracious readers deal the author but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
December 14, 2020
There’s something strange going on in Leah’s house or is she going mad? Her husband of only a few years is at least trying to convince her of that. And now Leah is starting to believe it too.
This is the first book of the A Year in the Life Series by Lucinda E. Clarke. The book has twelve chapters, one for every month of the year in chronological order. This psychological story begins on New Year’s Day with the death of the family dog which sets the stage for the strange occurrences. Stranger yet is that Leah is the only one that sees or hears these events. Everyone else just thinks she’s crazy.
This novel captured my attention from the first line and held it until the end. It is fast paced and well written. The only thing I had a slight issue with was the epilogue at the end. I don’t want to give anything away, but I did find that it changed the way the story ended (in a way). I was all set to believe and accept an outcome when suddenly became something else. However, this may be because it is setting the reader up for the next book in the series. In any case it is a good book that is sure to keep you captivated, and one that I recommend.
This is the first book of the A Year in the Life Series by Lucinda E. Clarke. The book has twelve chapters, one for every month of the year in chronological order. This psychological story begins on New Year’s Day with the death of the family dog which sets the stage for the strange occurrences. Stranger yet is that Leah is the only one that sees or hears these events. Everyone else just thinks she’s crazy.
This novel captured my attention from the first line and held it until the end. It is fast paced and well written. The only thing I had a slight issue with was the epilogue at the end. I don’t want to give anything away, but I did find that it changed the way the story ended (in a way). I was all set to believe and accept an outcome when suddenly became something else. However, this may be because it is setting the reader up for the next book in the series. In any case it is a good book that is sure to keep you captivated, and one that I recommend.
February 3, 2021
In A Year in the Life of Leah Brand, Leah lost her husband, children, and her leg in a horrific car accident. After recuperating, she meets Mason. He seems to be just what the doctor ordered. He’s successful, has money, and loves her. Marriage soon comes about and Mason continues to be a good guy, until he isn’t. After a fun and drunken New Year celebration, Mason’s beloved dog dies. Leah is thrilled, but she has no idea what is going to happen from that point on.
Life becomes a mess for Leah. She has a step-daughter that is rude and disrespectful to her and a husband who turns into a real jerk. She loses her self-confidence and wonders if she is losing her mind. Odd things start happening in her home. She starts seeing a therapist who doesn’t help at all. She ends up in a seemingly impossible situation. At this point I thought that Leah could be a bit off her rocker. Just when you think Leah has lost this battle, the truth comes out. Is she a nut? Will she come back from being tormented? This is a creepy situation that makes you cringe. A Year in the Life of Leah Brand is a book you won’t want to miss out on. Scoop it up and get started. Read more book reviews at latishaslowkeylife.com
Life becomes a mess for Leah. She has a step-daughter that is rude and disrespectful to her and a husband who turns into a real jerk. She loses her self-confidence and wonders if she is losing her mind. Odd things start happening in her home. She starts seeing a therapist who doesn’t help at all. She ends up in a seemingly impossible situation. At this point I thought that Leah could be a bit off her rocker. Just when you think Leah has lost this battle, the truth comes out. Is she a nut? Will she come back from being tormented? This is a creepy situation that makes you cringe. A Year in the Life of Leah Brand is a book you won’t want to miss out on. Scoop it up and get started. Read more book reviews at latishaslowkeylife.com
February 19, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
This book kept me keen to read on. The psychological mind-play that kept Leah wondering wove back and forth throughout each chapter, making you doubt what you had read and making you too think things weren't as they seemed.
I gave this book 4 stars. I would have liked to give it 5 but was perplexed by the final chapter which provided almost as many questions as answers. Perhaps this is what the writer intended, to keep us guessing even at the end. I would have preferred a more definite conclusion.
This book kept me keen to read on. The psychological mind-play that kept Leah wondering wove back and forth throughout each chapter, making you doubt what you had read and making you too think things weren't as they seemed.
I gave this book 4 stars. I would have liked to give it 5 but was perplexed by the final chapter which provided almost as many questions as answers. Perhaps this is what the writer intended, to keep us guessing even at the end. I would have preferred a more definite conclusion.
June 14, 2020
From the opening line “The nightmare began the day the dog died” I knew I was in for a treat with this quirky domestic noir. Poor Leah goes through so much and has to deal with some truly horrible characters. I couldn’t think why she put up with her bullying husband or his ghastly teenage daughter but this was an engrossing gaslighting story, told in a lighthearted way. It was easy to visualise with vivid, larger than life characters, and some surprise twists and revelations
January 21, 2021
I love a good thriller here and there. This one doesn't disappoint. The main character might have flaws but that's perfectly fine. It made the story feel authentic. I couldn't wait to see what the ending was. I can't spoil it but it's to die for. Bravo!
Trigger Warning: This book touches on mental health issues and abuse. Not for the faint of heart.
Trigger Warning: This book touches on mental health issues and abuse. Not for the faint of heart.
February 15, 2021
This book was provided to me in pdf format to read/review via Voracious Readers.
I was skeptical when I first approached this book, encountering the journal/diary style of the writing. However, I really enjoyed the entire book, the swift pace, and multiple facets of Leah's experiences. Despite having some triggers relating to emotional and mental abuse, the book also gives some good insight into behaviours and the need to trust someone outside the relationship in order to see more clearly. All is not what it seems, in a number of ways ... enjoy!
I was skeptical when I first approached this book, encountering the journal/diary style of the writing. However, I really enjoyed the entire book, the swift pace, and multiple facets of Leah's experiences. Despite having some triggers relating to emotional and mental abuse, the book also gives some good insight into behaviours and the need to trust someone outside the relationship in order to see more clearly. All is not what it seems, in a number of ways ... enjoy!
April 29, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I felt it was well written and the story was captivating. So many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming! I read this in one sitting (all nighter!!) as I couldn’t bring myself to put it down and not know what happens next. I also very much appreciated the snippet of the next Leah Brand story - A year in the life of Andrea Coe - as it lay the ground work for the continuing story.
This will not be the last Leah Brand story for me.
* i was fortunate enough to receive a free copy of this book from the author through Voracious Readers only in turn for an honest review*
This will not be the last Leah Brand story for me.
* i was fortunate enough to receive a free copy of this book from the author through Voracious Readers only in turn for an honest review*
January 29, 2023
I've received this book from Voracious Readers Only. This is the 1st book from this author that I have read. This book has it all mystery, intrigue, and heartache. Leah has lost her first husband, children, and her leg in a terrible accident. She gets married to Mason, and her nightmare begins with the death of his dog. I already can not wait for book 2!
July 24, 2024
Such an exciting and captivating story. A psychological thriller that will leave you wanting more. Leah is an extraordinary character. Brilliantly written, you will feel her struggle down to the depth of your bones. Mason..just yuck from the minute you meet him. His dark heart and manipulative ways will leave you cold. This is a story of measuring sanity, questioning every turn of events, and wading through truths and lies. Exceptional story. Can’t wait to read more! So many pieces to put together in this ever growing puzzle.
August 16, 2025
I struggled to rate this. I definitely need to think on this book before I make a decision on a) what rating to give it and b) did I enjoy it or not?
February 28, 2024
Not your typical nail biter. You're not preparing for a killer to pop up around the corner and make you jump but you are constantly on edge...who's doing it, sane, insane, who's a friend, who's a foe?? Even on the last page you aren't really sure who to believe and what to believe. Cannot wait to get the next book and continue on this journey!
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