Closing in

by Sue Fortin, Elisabeth Hopper (Reading)

Helen has had to leave everything she's ever known behind; her home, her family, even her own name. Now, returning to the UK as Ellen Newman, she moves to a small coastal village, working as a nanny for Donovan, a criminal psychologist. Attractive, caring and protective, this single father and his sweet daughter are a world away from Ellen's brutal past. But Ellen can't shake the feeling that something's wrong. Strange incidents begin to plague her new family, and their house of calm is about to become one of suspicion and fear. Who can be trusted? Who is the target? Who is closing in?

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Audiobook, Fiction, Suspense, Thriller, Abuse

1 pages, Audio CD

First published May 15, 2014

About the author

Writing historical fiction as Suzanne Fortin and mystery/suspense as Sue Fortin.

Suzanne writes historical fiction, predominantly dual timeline and set in France. Her books feature courageous women in extraordinary circumstances with love and family at the heart of all the stories.

​Suzanne was a bookworm as a child and this naturally progressed to wanting to write her own stories. It wasn’t until she was on maternity leave with her fourth child, that she thought it was now or never and finally managed to write a complete novel. Having joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association under their New Writers’ Scheme, writing then as Sue Fortin, she sent her manuscript off for a critique.

After another year of working on the novel, Suzanne self-published United States of Love – a contemporary romance. This was then picked up by a traditional publisher, HarperCollins and under their imprint HarperImpulse (now One More Chapter) this book was republished. Writing as Sue Fortin, another seven books in the romantic suspense genre were published with HarperCollins.

More recently, Sue has moved to writing historical fiction and publishes under the name of Suzanne Fortin, with her debut in this genre, The Forgotten Life of Arthur Pettinger released in early 2021 with Head of Zeus imprint, Aria Fiction.

​A self-confessed Francophile, Suzanne has a home in the Morbihan region of France and visits as often as she can with her husband and family. The region has been a huge inspiration for Suzanne’s books and is often the backdrop to her writing.

Reviews

[Cora Tea Party Princess · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Words: Tense, shocking, mysterious, deceit, stalker.

Giveaway at Tea Party Princess.

I'm not sure what I expected when I started this book, but what I read was very different. This is one of those books you just can't put down, where you have to keep turning the pages to find out what's going to happen next.

This is a story that twists and turns, and I was always second guessing myself at who this stalker was and even if there was one. It's very subtle and plays on your mind. It's a mysterious thriller that uses your own doubt to build and build the story. What's true and what isn't?

Helen/Ellen is a great character - she's just unreliable enough that you question absolutely everything about her, but not so much that you can't empathise and relate to her. And little Isobel is a delightful child. If only all little kids were so lovely!

That ending was so unexpected and dramatic. There were little signs after you reached half-way, but I still didn't quite anticipate everything panning out as it did. I liked how it all came together.

This is a book that sets your pulse racing and mind whirring. It's perfect for a rainy day when you don't want something too up-beat which still has little notes of happy.

[Paula M · Rating 3 out of 5]

‘We all run from something at some point in our lives,’

Let's all gaze at that pretty cover for awhile. Confession: I didn't read the blurb of Closing In when I signed up for the blog tour. I just viewed the cover at goodreads and that's it, that's actually how i choose what to read next, by book cover. I know, I'm weird. Anyway, Closing In surprised me! It's a nail biting experience with an awesome and real set of characters.

I got sucked in from the Prologue immediately. Sue Fortin sure knows how to start her novel. It was intriguing and you can't help but continue reading it so that you can know the answers already. We were introduced at Helen first, or should I say Ellen? Our protagonist has mystery written all over her. I was engrossed by the way she narrates the story and you can't help but feel for her. Honestly, she's one of the most brave heroine I've encountered.

Sue Fortin makes wonderful side characters. I love that everyone has their back stories and the readers gets to know them. Also, praise for how the Author woven the Romance. It's real and very appropriate for the situation. I have no words for the twists and turns! It's unpredictable and it threw me on a loop. Is it him? Is it her? Who is behind everything? There's a lot of questions but it's a good thing that the Author will not keep you hanging. The readers will definitely get answers.

Closing In is a good fix for your mystery and thriller thirst, you'll be surely satisfied.

[Sue Moorcroft · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fascinating book, cleverly plotted and gripping. I love page-turners with romance.

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow that was so good!!

[ReadAlongWithSue recovering from a stroke★⋆. ࿐࿔ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this was just an excellent read from Sue Fortin. I was well captivated from page to page.

Having to leave her abusive partner behind, she had to run as far as she could, take on another ID and escape. She had to forsake everything and everyone, even her name. The only person she kept in contact with [in a very clever way] was her friend. The only one she could rely on.

Returning to the UK she got a job as a Nanny to a lovely sweet girl. It didn't come without its complications. Trouble was, her past was not as easily escapable as she had previously thought. There lies the intensity of this unfolding drama.

Really enjoyed it, it flowed very well, kept my mind churning and a little romance thrown in. Donovan was a lovely man [father of the little girl] wouldn't mind one like him!

Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary book from HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse Via Net Galley in exchange for my honest review and thoughts.

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Also posted on This Chick Reads

Make sure you don't miss the fab UK/INT giveaway on the blog, e-copy of 'Closing In', an Amazon GC £5/$10 and handcrafted tote bag.

*Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*

'Closing In' is Sue Fortin's second novel, and though I haven't read her debut yet (I do however have it on kindle so expect to rectify this pretty soon) I know this one is much different to her previous one. I've read many reviews of 'Unites States of Love', Sue's debut, as well as chatted to people who have read it, and I must admit I didn't expect this type of read from her. While 'United States of Love' is a chick lit/contemporary romance, seems with 'Closing In' Sue decided to explore the darker side, creating one hell of a gripping psychological thriller.

It's got loads of elements in it, suspense, romance, mystery, drama..it's one great combination of all the things I personally enjoy very much in a book. The story is centered around Helen, who leaves home and decides on changing her identity. For a while, she seems to be alright and finally living the life she always dreamed of. She has a job she enjoys, and maybe there are chances even for starting a new romance. However, things get pretty strange soon... could it be her past is still haunting her?

This was truly an enjoyable and such an easy read. I didn't even want to go to bed so I could see how things will turn out for Helen at the end. Sue's narration and the skills to create such a gripping read have really impressed me. I was completely hooked from the first page, wondering why Helen is doing such a drastic change. I could feel her reasons for that, but I can't say I could totally predict everything that was happening in this book. It's definitely one of those book that will keep you guessing and one which you won't be able to put down.

Needless to say, I will definitely be on a watch out for Sue's next book (I know authors sometimes feel the pressure when a reader approaches them with this statement, but honestly I can't help it). I will also definitely check out United States of Love, and I really can't wait to see if Sue will decide to go back to chick lit or if she'll continue writing psychological/drama/suspense. As much as I love chick lit I must say I wouldn't be complaining if she decides to stick with the darker books. It's obvious she feels very comfortable in this genre and she's mighty good in creating an intriguing, complex and fast paced story that will keep you invested throughout.

[Simona · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

A simple and yet so effective cover, I love it ♥

Meet ellen Newman, a nanny starting her new job for Mr. Donovan, looking after his sweet and adorable little girl called Izzy.
We soon find out that Ellen has had a really tough and difficult past and doesn't want to be reminded of it. The way she looks out for little Izzy is so cute. The two of them together was a pleasure to read about.

Mr. Donovan is a crime psychologist and soon wants to find out, what Ellen is hiding. He saw her scars and constantly analyzes her when she speaks to him. He's a great father ♥ his little girl is his everything. Carla is his PA, she is special and Ellen has herr difficulties with her especially at the beginning.
Izzy's mum Amanda has some real problems and now she wants full costody for her daugther and is willing to do everything for that, you'll see (read it!)

Ellen and Donovan (yes, she addresses him with his last name) get to know each other more and kore and after a while she opens up and tells him part of her story, he finds out the rest himself ;) we know that Ellen's ex-boyfriend treated her badly and when strange things (weird incidents and accidents) begin to happen Round the town and donovan's house, the question is wherther Toby is behind it. Donovan doesn't want Ellen to leave and I loved , biw they slowly realied their feelings for each other and got closer and closer...
Donovan seems to be the perfect man for Ellen and he gives her security and most importantly she feels safe in his arms. Aww, I fell for him myself, I admit. He's protective, caring, sweet, smart, romantic and he's an awesome dad.

The three of them were looking like a family more and more and that was adorable to rad about.

Next to Donovan only her best friend Kate knows where she is. It was interesting to learn more about Ellen's past. Then Toby turns up at the house and wants to convince Donovan that Ellen has mental problems, what will Donovan believe?
The drama and action increases more when kate calls and turns up with Toby, some terrible things happen and I only hope for Donovan to hear from it early enough. At one point I almost couldn't bare it anymore, so dramatic and thrilling and I got really scared.
I couldn't put this book down, such a page turner, I loved every single minute of it.

The last scene was so special and is actually calling for more, I'd really love this story to go on, also to find out his first name ;). This novel is gripping, vivid, dramatic, emotional, touching, adventurous brilliant, catchy, adorable and much more, go read it now, it's worth every single page!!! ♥

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review as part of a blog tour to promote 'Closing In' by Sue Fortin, which I am more than happy to do.

I love a psychological, suspense book as much as I love a romance. This book is a bonus as it has both genres in the one book, although I have to say it does lean heavily towards the former. I went through many emotions reading this book - the worst being panic and fear. I thought reading on a sunny, early evening would dampen the emotions the book evoked - wrong!

It was clear from the start that there has been problems within Helen's relationship with her partner Toby, so much so that she has got herself a new identity as Ellen and leaves the country, returning six months later to work as a nanny. She told no-one other than her best friend where she had gone and where she was living. Although, she did leave Toby a note to say she had left him - something which seems to enrage him! He was determined to find her and we immediately saw his controlling behaviour emerge - it was almost like 'how dare she leave me? I didn't tell her she could go'!

This was an easy, fast paced book to read so, if you like a book that will have you second guessing, that also has suspense, drama, romance, love and friendship, then I have to say, this is the book for you. I read this book in two sittings and literally couldn't put it down. I got more than I bargained for and an ending that left me open mouthed, not quite what I was expecting - a difficult thing to do so well done Sue. This book isn't predictable in any way. Yes, as the book progressed I wanted certain outcomes and sometimes I was right, but most times I wasn't.

It was particularly lovely to read about the new relationships Ellen forged with both Donovan and his daughter Izzy - both were extremely likeable characters. I couldn't help hoping Donovan was the good guy and would become the rock Ellen needed to anchor herself to. Was he? You'll just have to read the book yourself to find out.

This was Sue's second novel so I will definitely be looking up her first to read as she well and truly sucked me in with this one. All in all this is a brilliant book, written by a lovely author who, with a writing style like this deserves success, so thank you for 'Closing In.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's hope we're never in the position in which Helen finds herself, where you need to run and hide so badly you change your name by deed poll and try to completely change your identity.

Now called Ellen, our escape artist is fleeing a relationship gone bad - very bad and when she lands herself a position as live in nanny to the loveable Izzy and her very agreeable Dad, Donovan, she thinks her troubles are behind her, but they're only just beginning.

What follows is a swirly cat and mouse chase, where Ellen has to try and stay one step ahead of a game where she isn't even sure of the rules. Has someone from her past tracked her down? Or is Donovan the target for increasingly bizarre little incidents which make us increasingly more uneasy for Ellen and Izzy's safety.

Donovans job as a criminal psychologist helps him recognize who to trust and who is lying, yet even he becomes confused with all the psychological doubts and diversions (as did I)

The author adeptly throws in a few red herrings to confuse us about just who is doing what, to whom and then a niggle of doubt as to Ellens credibility are catapulted into the mix which builds to a really tense, nail biting climax.

I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic thriller, with great characters, a vigorous storyline and sufficient curved balls to keep you guessing all the way through.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher, Harper Impulse for providing my digital copy which has introduced me to another enjoyable author.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Helen Matthews gathers up the courage to walk out on her abusive boyfriend Toby, she leaves everything behind - her home, family, even her name. As Ellen Newman, after a short stint working abroad, she moves to the Sussex seaside town of Felpham, working as the nanny for a criminal psychologist called Donovan. She thinks she’s about to start building a new life, she thinks she’s safe, but then the incidents begin… This is the first romantic thriller I’ve read and, on this basis, it won’t be the last. The romantic sections were believable and well-written, the thriller sections were gripping and suspenseful and as a novel it held together well. The characterisation was a key part of this - Ellen is a great lead, determined and strong if a little unsure of herself at times and she’s ably supported by the attractive, charismatic Donovan and his wonderful eight year old daughter Izzy. Thrown into the mix are his ex-wife Amanda, who seems to be angling for something and Lampard, a local criminal who might or might not have attacked a woman in her own home and who might, or might not, be angling for revenge on Donovan. The location is well realised, as is the use of a wintry season, there are some clever set-pieces (the cat in the garden, the car in the lane) and the pace doesn’t flag at all. With several red herrings thrown in for good measure, this is great fun and a damned good read. Very much recommended.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable psychological drama about Ellen Newman, a woman forced to leave her old life behind and start afresh with a new identity. After six months she thinks she is safe to return to the UK and start again with a new job as nanny to 8 year old Isabel, daughter of criminal psychologist Donovan. But, when strange things start happening it seems clear that she is being stalked by someone from her past. Then again, Donovan’s job has meant that he has made enemies. Could he be the target?

The author really kept me guessing as to who the stalker was and who was being stalked. It was very tense at times, I could really sense the impending danger and really liked the way I just didn’t quite trust some of the characters.

The story is well paced and moves to a gripping climax full of danger. The only thing I wasn’t quite keen on was the very end, where it got a bit slushy and soppy and which didn’t quite fit in with the rest of the book. Having said that, it was an extremely enjoyable read. Thanks to the publishers for an ARC in return for an unbiased review.

[Margaret Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am delighted to be part of Fiction Addiction's Book Tour for Sue Fortin's second novel, Closing In. Very different to her debut novel, United States of Love, this is a fast paced page turner with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Following the story of Helen, who is running from the past , the author brings us on a journey of new beginnings, new friendships and second chances.
Donovan is a strong character who, despite circumstances, gives Helen the stability she needs and makes her feel alive again. The chemistry between them is great and I can certainly see why Helen would be attracted to him.

The writing is plain and simple with a nice pace, making it possible to read in one or two sittings. It has a few subplots, with an ex-wife and one of Donovan's cases interwoven through the novel. This adds to the suspense and intrigue. A recommended read for fans of Dorothy Koomson and Nicci French.

[Mandy Baggot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book is like watching a tense episode of a TV crime drama. We know that Helen has run away from her old life but who has followed? Or are the nasty surprises she keeps getting nothing to do with her at all. Criminal psychologist Donovan is a breath of fresh air and looking after his daughter provides Helen with the grounding normality she needs. But someone is closing in.

I really enjoyed this book and it kept me turning the pages. I did figure out the culprit before the end but that didn't detract from my enjoyment. The characters were well drawn and the plot was tight.

A great suspense - would recommend!

[Flo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read with twists that I didn't see coming!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 I normally stay away from discussing an actual story or plot line, to avoid risk of spoilers. My reviews are based more upon my feelings while I read the book.

This is one of those books I kept wanting to get back to (darn work gets in the way), where I was in a hurry to turn the pages to find out what's going to happen next. It’s another story with lots of twists and turns, and I was continuously changing my mind about who the ‘bad guy’ was.

I couldn’t decide if Ellen was a [unintentional] drama queen. Nobody gets into that much stuff! So there were times when I felt it was a little too ‘out there’. But who’s to say there aren’t people dealing with this sort of thing!?

I also struggle with these stories where the two main characters (one hero, one heroine) fall head over heels in love, in spite of everything going on around them, and far too quickly to be real. But hey, that’s just me. Maybe I’m just jealous?

I enjoyed the two separate story lines, continuing to intertwine now and again – it kept me wondering if/when they might come to a crescendo. I would have liked to seen a little more development of the secondary story line, actually.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. But it just seemed far-fetched enough that I can’t rate it any higher than a 3.75. I do, however, recommend it for a fun read.

[Susan Mackie Powers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helen needed to get away from her abusive boyfriend, but breaking up with him wasn't enough; she had to start over somewhere else with a new identity. She moved to a new town, changed her name, and got a job as a live in nanny for a handsome criminal psychologist. Soon, she settled into a routine in the household, and builds a close relationship with the 8 year old girl in her care, and unsettling feelings for the girl's handsome father, who was in the middle of an ugly divorce from the child's mother. But nothing is ever that simple. Her creepy ex lurked around her best friend's house, convinced that she knew where he could find Helen. Meanwhile, several strange and threatening things happened. Her employer thought they were related to a criminal case he was working on, but Helen knew better.

This was a fun, light read that I enjoyed, but everything came together a little too neatly in the end.

[Rose McClelland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so it seems like Sue Fortin is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. That's 3 books of hers I've read now and I've enjoyed every one.
Fortin's style of writing settles into an interesting genre - it's a mix of romance and psychological thriller. It's a genre I'm really enjoying.
'Closing In' is a novel I thoroughly enjoyed and I raced through it in a matter of days. There are plenty of twists and turns in the books, the main characters are very likable and there's a great deal of suspense (and romance) along the way! A great read.

[Dorinela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of cringe worthy moments, gratuitous smut and plot incongruities. The hot shot police profiler unable to detect the biggest red flags and using corny terms of endearment made me roll my eyes on more than one occasion. Ellen/Helen knowing the name of the police case suspect when Donovan didn't ever speak about him in her presence was another facepalm moment. Donovan's first name will also never be revealed, because this particular detail serves the grand finale, but somehow not knowing his name is not a red flag for Ellen and is made into this big romantic deal (puking level cringe).
3 🌟 solely for the initial plot, before it unraveled into a total mess.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first Sue Fortin book that I've read and I'm delighted to be the final stop on the blog tour for her latest novel, Closing In.

In the prologue a new identity is revealed so we know that she's planning to run but we don't why, this is all revealed later but certainly grabbed my attention from the first couple of pages.

Helen / Ellen is on the run from someone and it's quite easy to assume from the beginning who that is but it's the chase that makes this novel. By becoming Ellen, Helen hopes to escape her violent past but she's still constantly looking over her shoulder and so moves to a fairly remote seaside town for a new job with the hopes of remaining inconspicuous. Her new employer 'Donovan' is only known by Donovan (his surname), that was all a bit Inspector Morse and a bit odd really!

Things don't get off to a great start with the prickly Carla but she soon builds an easy friendly relationship with the little girl in her care, Izzy and then an even more personal relationship with her employer. I did feel that there was a very quick development of a relationship between Donovan and Ellen, must have been a matter of days, a week maybe, but then when you know!

There is a good balance between the tense, psychological, and romantic events which culiminates in a climatic ending which was a tadge far-fetched but it worked and would probably work as a TV drama.

I thought that the plot moved at quite a good pace, there weren't any scenes that I felt were superfluous; although I did weary slightly at Donovan's possessiveness of Ellen, not letting her out etc but I can see why this was needed to add to the suspense. And when she does go off on her own, it's like watching a horror movie...you're thinking to yourself don't go in there, why are you going on your own, you feel all those clichéd feelings the same as those you shout out at the TV because you just know something bad is going to happen.

There's an interesting turn of events with Toby meeting Donovan that I thought was going to go a totally different way - I did actually think Ellen might actually be imagining the strange events which would have been a really good twist but I think I may have read something else like that or seen it on tv recently.

There were some minor typos and inconsistencies in the proof copy which I would expect to have been resolved for publication.

Overall I really enjoyed this novel and actually read it in a couple of sittings in one day. If you liked The Disappearance of Emily Marr by Louise Candlish and enjoyed the movie Sleeping with the Enemy then I think you'll like this!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I could possibly be Rosamund Lupton’s biggest fan and I became resigned to never reading any new novels from her and never finding anything as good but then I spied Closing In which was described as PERFECT for fans of Lupton and so I jumped at the opportunity to read this book!
Closing In is a fantastically written novel about Ellen Newman, a woman who, after running away to start a new life, takes a job as a nanny for a new family but soon finds her past and what she’s running away from isn’t willing to let her go.
With the responsibility of looking after a child, maintaining a strictly professional relationship with her boss and avoiding her past catching up with her, can Ellen really make a brand new start and look forward to the future?
This book had me totally gripped right from the off. I became so quickly invested in the characters and their world and was desperate to find out what lie beneath the surface of their seemingly ordinary lives. The plot was incredibly clever and I could not have predicted where it ended up. I felt that the ‘big reveal’ as such, could have been a little longer so we could be totally aware of each of the characters motivations but it was still a great twist and shocking revelation.
The characters in Closing In are so well crafted and they are all so multi-layered that you just don’t know which one to trust. Throughout the whole novel I kept trying to second guess the author and work out which character I should listen to but I just couldn’t work out who to believe! I would have loved a tiny bit more of a struggle between Ellen and her boss Donovan - I think there could have been a lot of tension and more scenes between them where he doesn’t know whether to believe her or not.
The tension and intrigue throughout this novel was totally on point the whole way through, I was flying through the pages trying to rush to the conclusion so everything would come together. I love an author who can keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time and Sue has got that skill down to a fine art. Whilst the writing was compelling and gripping, it was also beautifully descriptive so I was able to picture exactly where we were and exactly what was going on in each moment which made what happened even more powerful.
I really recommend this book – it’s a nice length which means you can easily get through it in one sitting or one evening (you won’t be able to put it down!)
A fantastically paced novel exploring how letting go of the past may never be as easy as you think…

[buzy_reading · Rating 2 out of 5]

Closing In was about Helen leaving behind her life with Toby to start a new life as Ellen Newman. Ellen relocated to Sussex to become a live-in nanny for an eight year old girl name Izzy. Mr. Donovan was a single father working as a criminal psychologist for the Sussex Police department.
Helen was a light hearted and maternal character who was a great caregiver with Izzy and a great companion with Mr. Donovan.
Mr. Donovan was a loving, caring, and protective father. He doted on Izzy and tried to spend as much time as he could with her.

Many minor characters were added to the story to create additional suspicion upon their intentions towards both major characters.

The story progressed slowly with the lengthy introduction of characters. This was listed as a mysterious psychological detective story with suspense and yet the only detective work has been from Toby figuring out Helen's new name. As for the psychological aspect that was tied to Mr. Donovan be a criminal psychologist.

Closing In spent too much time building a relationship with Ellen and Mr. Donovan. I thought this was going to be a psychological detective story and yet Ellen was rebuilding her life under the assumption that she was free and clear of Toby.
The execution was slow and not mysterious. The day to day routine became mundane and boring. I grew tired of the storyline and the interaction between characters.

Unfortunately, Closing In wasn't an exciting read as I had hoped. I thought it would be suspenseful and mysterious.
Sue spent too much time developing minor characters trying to create unnecessary distractions that took away from the actual storyline. Sue's aim to create a suspenseful mystery story fell flat when she focused on the romance instead.

Ellen's character was irritatingly annoying. The amount of excuses she piled up regarding her safety was idiotic. It certainly made me question her sanity. How many times must she get attacked and not report it? How many times was she unable to see her attacker? This form of threat became redundant and quite frustrating. Her stubbornness made the stalkers job so much easier.
I felt the ending and conclusion was anticlimactic. It felt rushed for as long as the build up lasted.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The eyes, Donovan.” It was almost a whisper. “The eyes don’t lie.”

Closing In was an interesting read. Loved the mystery aspect and the multiple storylines. It never felt like too much was going on. In fact, the beginning was actually a little slow for me. But once I got a few chapters in it started to really pick up. More characters were introduced and the point of views started changing more.

The relationship between Ellen and Donovan was interesting. I felt like Donovan’s interest in Ellen came out of nowhere and that once things started between the two it was full steam ahead. There were definitely times I couldn’t believe how understanding Ellen was towards Donovan, but that may just be me. I probably would have kicked him to the curb ;). In general though, the relationship aspect of the story didn’t play as big of a role as the mystery or even Ellen’s relationship with Izzy. And I did feel that the mystery was the most interesting aspect of the story as a whole.

I just loved how it seemed like you couldn’t trust anyone and you were never quite sure what the motivations were. Well I’m sure there were a few people you could trust but there were definitely times when I wasn’t so sure. There was also a little bit of a creepy factor that definitely kept me invested and thankful that I don’t live alone…or you know have a stalker. It did amaze me that Ellen kept putting herself in dangerous situations after bad things kept happening to her. Needless to say, some of her actions had me groaning at my kindle. I also thought the final reveal happened a little fast, and some of the suspense was taken away because of that. But with that said, I still enjoyed the book and loved the mystery and suspense of it all. I wish I could say more but given that it is a romantic suspense there is a lot that can’t be said because a lot of it would be spoilers. There are just so many situations and characters I’d love to talk about but I guess you’ll just have to read it for yourself.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on:> http://lauraslittlebookblog.blogspot....

I was instantly drawn into Closing in from the very first chapter. Sue Fortin cleverly creates a sense of urgency and suspense that compels you to read on and find out what will happen. The fact that Helen changed her name to Ellen made me eager to discover why she had gone to such lengths to not be found.

I have read suspense novels like this before and I must admit that I thought it was going to be predictable, and although there were some parts that I guessed would happen, there were still lots of surprises along the way.

Novels that have characters with lots of depth make for some excellent reading and that was exactly what the Closing In Characters were like. I found myself warming to Ellen and wanting to know more about her, but with her employer Donovan, I could not completely connect with him as a character. Maybe it was to do with him being a criminal psychologist and reigning in all his emotions all the time, but I did find him quite frustrating at times, especially the times where he began to doubt Ellen.

Even though this did have a lot of tension and suspense, I thought perhaps that it could have been taken to the next level. It never quite got to the same level as the first chapter that had initially drawn me in. That said, I still kept wanting to read on, particularly when strange things started to happen.

I liked how when we never quite knew who was doing all the suspicious things even though it was very easy to point the finger at one particular person; but I liked how there was always that niggling doubt. And it was this that set the novel apart for me.

A suspenseful novel with some great twists that will have you whizzing through.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Closing In completely gave me the creeps, the thought that someone is watching your every move and is determined to not only scare you, but also the family you are working for is terrifying. Sue Fortin has managed to create a novel full of suspense, romance, a cute child and a lot of twists.

Helen escaped a bad relationship, has left everything she knows behind her, and even changed her name in an attempt to get away from her ex. The only contact she still has with her old life is with her best friend Kate.

Ellen gets a job a live-in nanny for Donovan, who is a criminal psychologist and is working on an interesting case himself, and his 8 year old daughter Izzy. Izzy is a loveable child, who warms quite fast to Ellen.

However before long there is a series of strange incidents which leaves both Ellen and Donovan jumpy. They don't know which is being targeted, Ellen by her ex, or Donovan by a criminal he has dealt with in the past, but they are both wary of the situation.

There is a lot of drama and suspense in this book, and I had a really weird feeling the entire time I was reading it, which I think was nerves for Ellen and Donovan. We would occasionally get looks at the protagonist movements, and thoughts, and there are other hints in there which made me wonder if the other members of Donovan's staff could be completely trusted.

This is the second book I have read by Sue Fortin and with both of them I have been incredibly impressed with how Sue can hold her readers attention throughout the book, and at the psychological affect she can have on her readers.

Closing In is a fabulous romantic suspense novel that will keep you guessing, and had my adrenalin pumping towards the end.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

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'Closing In' is an atmospheric, romantic thriller.

Helen needs to escape but we don't know why. She changes her name by deed poll to Ellen and walks away from her life and Toby her ex boyfriend.

Ellen's new life is working out. She secures a job in sleepy seaside town as nanny to a sweet little girl who has a kind and desirable dad. Donovan's love for his daughter defines him and makes him even more attractive to Ellen. His job as a criminal psychologist is a complication. Courageous despite her low self image Ellen is determined to enjoy a better life. Ellen's inner battle as she strives to overcome her fears and find the true self is enthralling.

A series of untoward occurrences threatens their idyll but who is the target? This is a clever psychological thriller full of false clues and intrigue. The antagonist is menacing. The secondary characters enhance the mystery and tension in the plot.

'Closing In' is a beautifully written romance interwoven with dark elements of suspense which will hold your interest until the last page.

I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley.

Sue Fortin

[Sheryl Browne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book knowing I needed something I could get my teeth into, as a distraction from life. Closing in did the trick. I was hooked immediately, wanting to know why Ellen would go to such great lengths to hide her identity. It soon becomes clear that she’s been in an abusive relationship and is determined to make the break final and complete. I have to say that the extent of the abuse is gradually revealed and handled sensitively. Established in her new life as a nanny to an eight year old girl, Izzy, Ellen’s ghosts soon come to haunt her. Someone, as the title aptly suggests, is closing in, seeking revenge. Is it Izzy’s criminal psychologist father, Donovan, who is being hunted, though, by someone he’s previously profiled? Or is it Ellen’s ex, gone from passive stalking to aggressive attack? And who is colluding with their assailant to cause Ellen, Donavan and Izzy harm? Cleverly, the author gives just enough to keep us wondering with some nice plot twists. There a red herring as to the identity of the female collaborator, I gave myself a pat on the back for spotting it. Simply, I found this a riveting story that kept me guessing and one I wanted to go back to. A mark of a fulfilling read is that it stays with you. Closing in most definitely did, Donovan, in particular, who I found entirely believable. If he was to profile himself, I’m guessing he’d find his character perfectly fitted his job. The light-bulb moment in regard to a suspect’s trophy was a masterstroke. Well done, Donovan and Sue Fortin.

[Shona Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book by Sue Fortin that I have read and I chose this book based on the synopsis alone. There was just something about it that made me want to find out more about Ellen, who was she running from? Why? And from the very first few pages I felt a strange connection to her, like I needed to carry on reading her story. If this is standard for Fortin's writing then I really have to read more of her work.

This was such an easy book to fall into, one that I really struggled to put down. Honestly, I fought sleep so that I could read just one more chapter, which ultimately turned into two and then three... On the surface this book sounds like it's an easy one to figure out, but Fortin has created characters that just aren't black and white. On more than one occasion I was sure I knew who was doing things and why only to be proven wrong. This book will have you second guessing everything.. but not to the point where you find yourself rolling your eyes at yet another plot twist.

Closing In has just the right amount of almost everything, mystery, crime, action, romance.... My only complaint was the sexy scenes where lacking in the descriptive. But in truth there was nothing anywhere to suggest that they should be descriptive. And although I was a little disappointed in one or two scenes I can honestly say it doesn't affect the overall dynamic of the story.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Closing In had me from page one. It’s a gripping, fast-paced read, set on the south coast. Sue Fortin's love for West Sussex is apparent, and a delight to read, as are her interactions between a child and an adult.
I am moved by the way Sue captures the wonderful intimacy between a parent and child. The mutual warmth and love between Donovan and his eight-year-old daughter, Isobel, leap off the page. Ellen, a nanny, is a natural with children, and it’s obvious how much she cares for Isobel.
The two main characters are perfectly matched. Ellen has to battle her past with every weapon in her arsenal – strength, reserve and courage. She has a vulnerability that draws the reader to her.
Donovan is strong, caring, confident, and knows what he wants from life. He works as a successful criminal psychologist, but his judgement clouds over when Ellen appears on the scene.
The light touches of humour made me laugh out loud, the twists and turns kept me guessing, and the drama of the end had me turning the pages at a phenomenal rate. I could not stop until I had read the whole story.
A brilliant read, and a book I highly recommend.

[Sophie Bristow Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary book from HarperCollins UK, HarperImpulse Via Net Galley in exchange for my fair and honest review.

"Closing In" by Sue Fortin immediately caught my eye as I used to be a children's Nanny, I also love books that integrate Nannies and thrillers!

I loved the chilling atmosphere than ran through "Closing In". I, as the reader could sympathise with the main character as she felt ill at ease with her surroundings, never quite relaxing in the fear that she was in peril from her creepy past relationship.

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel from Sue Fortin and shall be keeping a look out for her next publication. A great book, highly recommended.

[Jane · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm giving this book 1 star because I managed to read half of it before deciding life is too short. I don't like to give bad ratings - but when other's good reviews lead me to spend my money on a book, I feel the urge to redress the balance.
Very poorly executed... characters undeveloped, dialogue unbelievable.
This is no psychological drama - in fact it read more like chick lit with a dash of stalkerish behaviour thrown in for good measure.
Maybe the writing magically improved in the latter part of the book, I will never know - and have no desire to find out.