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In Her Shadow
A pregnant young woman becomes obsessed with the disappearance of her lover's wife--only to discover that she may be headed for the same fate--from
New York Times
bestselling author Kristin Miller.
Once his secretary, Colleen is now pregnant with Michael's baby. When he brings her to his opulent estate, Ravenwood, she is abruptly thrust into a life of luxury she's never known. But Colleen finds the immense house suffused with the memory of Michael's beautiful wife, Joanna, who left months ago and who haunts her imagination. It quickly becomes apparent that there is little room for a new mistress of this house: The staff greets her with hostility, and there are entire wings and corridors from which she is prohibited to enter.
Then bones are unearthed in the grove across the street.
When Michael falls under the suspicion of the detectives investigating the case, the soon-to-be mother of his child finds herself hurled deeper into her boyfriend's dark past--a past that threatens to upend all her dreams. But the terrifying secrets lurking in the shadows of Ravenwood pale in comparison to the drastic measures Colleen will take to stake a claim to her new life.
Inspired by Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, In Her Shadow is the chilling story of one woman's desperate desire to be loved and the ghosts that get in her way--but only if she lets them.
Once his secretary, Colleen is now pregnant with Michael's baby. When he brings her to his opulent estate, Ravenwood, she is abruptly thrust into a life of luxury she's never known. But Colleen finds the immense house suffused with the memory of Michael's beautiful wife, Joanna, who left months ago and who haunts her imagination. It quickly becomes apparent that there is little room for a new mistress of this house: The staff greets her with hostility, and there are entire wings and corridors from which she is prohibited to enter.
Then bones are unearthed in the grove across the street.
When Michael falls under the suspicion of the detectives investigating the case, the soon-to-be mother of his child finds herself hurled deeper into her boyfriend's dark past--a past that threatens to upend all her dreams. But the terrifying secrets lurking in the shadows of Ravenwood pale in comparison to the drastic measures Colleen will take to stake a claim to her new life.
Inspired by Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, In Her Shadow is the chilling story of one woman's desperate desire to be loved and the ghosts that get in her way--but only if she lets them.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2020
27 people are currently reading
4437 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Miller
113 books704 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling author Kristin Miller writes sweet and sassy contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance of all varieties. Kristin has degrees in psychology, English, and education, and taught high school and middle school English before crossing over to a career in writing. She lives in Northern California with her alpha male husband and their two children. She loves chocolate way more than she should and the gym less. You can usually find her in the corner of a coffee shop, laptop in front of her and mocha in hand, using the guests around her as fuel for her next book.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorKristinMiller
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kristinmiller02
Web: www.kristinmiller.net
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorKristinMiller
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kristinmiller02
Web: www.kristinmiller.net
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 230 reviews
November 6, 2020
This book seems like concoction of Rebecca meets Dial M for Murder and I Confess with one pump honey and just a little milk (don’t ask me why I added last two things to the recipe, just read and learn)
But unfortunately the author’s Hitchcockian deadly recipe failed at some parts. Especially too many POVED narration (why the hell we need to read detectives’ narration, too. That’s creepy husband and girlfriend story. I was so afraid of meeting with new POVs as I resumed my reading like asshole cook’s or sneaky maid’s or sexy, six packed gardener’s narrations- Sh*t there is no gardener in this story, I just dreamed him, I shouldn’t take naps during my readings-.) disturbed and confused the hell of me.
And of course at the each narration, one of the characters defines the other one differently. So the characters’ images and traits change like chameleon in your head and you ask yourself: WTH and why are these characters so unlikeable and more punch-able or slap-able?
The summary of the plot is a pregnant young woman’s obsession about disappearance of her lover’s wife. But when you read more, you’re gonna understand that is not true.
The story starts Colleen (the young pregnant woman and ex-secretary) and her lover’s (Michael, workaholic, charismatic and secretive, giving us doubtful, unfaithful vibes and we start the hate the guts of him as soon as we see his acts around Colleen and their future child!) house named Ravenwood. Poor Colleen lives in shoebox kind of apartment and there are only four months to go for her due date. So Colleen takes her maternal leave and Michael brings her to the house where his wife and he were living together till she sent a message to live with her sister in California when she was expecting their baby.
Colleen finds herself this mysterious place and the locked doors Michael insists there is nothing in them to pick her interest but he seems so shady and we know there are so many closets filled with skeletons at those rooms (not literally or could it be? No clue!) So he leaves his girlfriend alone with mean stuff members including aggressive cook and irritating maid who truly worship Joanna (the wife who left Michael or did she really leave?) and disturbing neighbor who also knows so much better about her new house and the past of Michael and Joanna.
And we see Colleen gets manipulated by the maid by applying Joanna’s perfume and wearing her robe which irritates Michael (We are sorry for Colleen from the beginning but isn’t she way too much naïve? Cannot she see the maid truly hates her and she may do whatever it takes to get rid of her!)
Then everything changes when they find the corpse of Joanna, wearing a sacred necklace (interesting, because she is not a religious type!) so we start to think could Michael kill his wife and will he do it the same thing to Colleen because we get some clues from the chapter titles, a dark fate awaits Colleen! There are also many other suspects we’re introduced and all of them seem irritably shady, too.
And we also learn more about Joanna and we find out she is femme fatale and despicable character. (Yes, we added another shameless one to our list)
The ending twist was good, but I didn’t like the way of revelation the author presented us. But I have to admit I didn’t foresee it and it is really well played.
I could give easily 4 stars for this reading but I didn’t like to live in so many characters’ brains and those fast changing confusing POVS are unnecessary and exhausting experience. And there was so much irritating, hate-worthy characters really annoyed me during my reading. No, I’m correcting my statement: there was no like-able character of this story so the hate that I give would be the title of my review.
That’s why I’m giving 3.25 stars. That was not a bad reading. Final twist and mysterious pacing, Hitchcock references were still good and enjoyable and I still want to read more books of the author.
( I think she mostly writes romance but as far as I see the most romance writers start to write thrillers and in my opinion they’re achieving great job so I’m still open for this author’s upcoming thriller books.)
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House/Ballantine Books for sharing this riveting ARC in exchange my honest review.
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But unfortunately the author’s Hitchcockian deadly recipe failed at some parts. Especially too many POVED narration (why the hell we need to read detectives’ narration, too. That’s creepy husband and girlfriend story. I was so afraid of meeting with new POVs as I resumed my reading like asshole cook’s or sneaky maid’s or sexy, six packed gardener’s narrations- Sh*t there is no gardener in this story, I just dreamed him, I shouldn’t take naps during my readings-.) disturbed and confused the hell of me.
And of course at the each narration, one of the characters defines the other one differently. So the characters’ images and traits change like chameleon in your head and you ask yourself: WTH and why are these characters so unlikeable and more punch-able or slap-able?
The summary of the plot is a pregnant young woman’s obsession about disappearance of her lover’s wife. But when you read more, you’re gonna understand that is not true.
The story starts Colleen (the young pregnant woman and ex-secretary) and her lover’s (Michael, workaholic, charismatic and secretive, giving us doubtful, unfaithful vibes and we start the hate the guts of him as soon as we see his acts around Colleen and their future child!) house named Ravenwood. Poor Colleen lives in shoebox kind of apartment and there are only four months to go for her due date. So Colleen takes her maternal leave and Michael brings her to the house where his wife and he were living together till she sent a message to live with her sister in California when she was expecting their baby.
Colleen finds herself this mysterious place and the locked doors Michael insists there is nothing in them to pick her interest but he seems so shady and we know there are so many closets filled with skeletons at those rooms (not literally or could it be? No clue!) So he leaves his girlfriend alone with mean stuff members including aggressive cook and irritating maid who truly worship Joanna (the wife who left Michael or did she really leave?) and disturbing neighbor who also knows so much better about her new house and the past of Michael and Joanna.
And we see Colleen gets manipulated by the maid by applying Joanna’s perfume and wearing her robe which irritates Michael (We are sorry for Colleen from the beginning but isn’t she way too much naïve? Cannot she see the maid truly hates her and she may do whatever it takes to get rid of her!)
Then everything changes when they find the corpse of Joanna, wearing a sacred necklace (interesting, because she is not a religious type!) so we start to think could Michael kill his wife and will he do it the same thing to Colleen because we get some clues from the chapter titles, a dark fate awaits Colleen! There are also many other suspects we’re introduced and all of them seem irritably shady, too.
And we also learn more about Joanna and we find out she is femme fatale and despicable character. (Yes, we added another shameless one to our list)
The ending twist was good, but I didn’t like the way of revelation the author presented us. But I have to admit I didn’t foresee it and it is really well played.
I could give easily 4 stars for this reading but I didn’t like to live in so many characters’ brains and those fast changing confusing POVS are unnecessary and exhausting experience. And there was so much irritating, hate-worthy characters really annoyed me during my reading. No, I’m correcting my statement: there was no like-able character of this story so the hate that I give would be the title of my review.
That’s why I’m giving 3.25 stars. That was not a bad reading. Final twist and mysterious pacing, Hitchcock references were still good and enjoyable and I still want to read more books of the author.
( I think she mostly writes romance but as far as I see the most romance writers start to write thrillers and in my opinion they’re achieving great job so I’m still open for this author’s upcoming thriller books.)
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House/Ballantine Books for sharing this riveting ARC in exchange my honest review.
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February 17, 2020
Colleen makes her living as a personal assistant to Michael Harris. She is also now his girlfriend as well as an expectant mother to be. Michael's first wife Joanna left him abruptly six months ago and he has now asked Colleen to move into Ravenwood the estate he once shared with Joanna.
Colleen can not believe her eyes when she steps through the door. She has never in a million years expected to live in such a life of luxury. However there are a few problems. Joanna's memory seems to still linger in the house. The chef and housekeeper are less than friendly. And why did Michael tell her she is never allowed to enter the locked rooms in the east wing?
After spending her first night restless and sleepless she is shocked to find out that a body has been found buried in the grove right across the street from Ravenwood. Is it possible that Joanna didn't actually leave her husband but was murdered instead? And just how well does she know Michael? You'll have to read this to find out.
This is a compelling read that does take some twists and turns. Some I did see coming and some that I did not. Nobody outside of Colleen is likable which makes the who did it that much more difficult to figure out. I thought the ending was solid and enjoyable. I will gladly read more from Kristin Miller. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for generously granting my wish for this ARC.
Colleen can not believe her eyes when she steps through the door. She has never in a million years expected to live in such a life of luxury. However there are a few problems. Joanna's memory seems to still linger in the house. The chef and housekeeper are less than friendly. And why did Michael tell her she is never allowed to enter the locked rooms in the east wing?
After spending her first night restless and sleepless she is shocked to find out that a body has been found buried in the grove right across the street from Ravenwood. Is it possible that Joanna didn't actually leave her husband but was murdered instead? And just how well does she know Michael? You'll have to read this to find out.
This is a compelling read that does take some twists and turns. Some I did see coming and some that I did not. Nobody outside of Colleen is likable which makes the who did it that much more difficult to figure out. I thought the ending was solid and enjoyable. I will gladly read more from Kristin Miller. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for generously granting my wish for this ARC.
March 22, 2020
When I saw this being comped as a modern day Rebecca, one of my favorite classic gothic novels, I knew I had to get my grubby paws on In Her Shadow. As a lover of solving mysteries and digging deep into fictional characters' dirty laundry, this book was a wonderful fit with both of those hobbies. While pretty much every character in this story is unlikable, and mostly despicable, this couldn't take away from the fact that I truly didn't have some of the twists figured out, a refreshing experience for a jaded suspense reader. If you enjoy books that seem to blend classical storytelling with modern techniques, I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book when it releases next month.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
March 13, 2020
I fall sick while reading this book and had to stop so I could get treatment. Nevertheless, this book is an excellent read. The organization is different from what I'm used to but I like that the read is fast paced. It seems obvious who the killer is the entire read and I wait for a twist to come. That twist doesn't come until the end and it's sure worth the wait. I didn't expect something like that and absolutely loved it. I like Rachael's view. Her thoughts are no-nonsense. I didn't like Colleen's view the entire read because she's so naive. But her character is well played.
This book started with a prologue told in the first person point of view following Colleen as she feared for her life. Then the story began with Colleen, told by timeline, one week until her death as she toured Michael's mansion out in a secluded area. Michael, Colleen's former boss and the father of her unborn baby, invited her to move in with him now that she's 5 months pregnant. She knew Michael has a wife and that the wife disappeared but didn't press for more details because she knew Michael is a private person. The second view is Michael. Michael claimed that his wife, Joanna left him and broke up with him via text 6 months ago. The third view is Rachael, Michael's neighbor. Her husband works for Michael. She also likes to gossip. The fourth view is Detective Shaw. He's investigating a mystery death found across the street from Michael's home.
In Her Shadow is well written and one of a kind read. Knowing the main character will die and then following her view of her days leading up to it is suspenseful. Her days though seems dull most times but the tension with Michael and other characters along with the memories of Joanna makes readers want to flip the pages. Detective Shaw sounds like a great husband. Again, I love reading thrillers when I couldn't guess who the killer is and this is another book I couldn't guess. I recommend everyone to read this story!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
***Many thanks to Ballantine Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
This book started with a prologue told in the first person point of view following Colleen as she feared for her life. Then the story began with Colleen, told by timeline, one week until her death as she toured Michael's mansion out in a secluded area. Michael, Colleen's former boss and the father of her unborn baby, invited her to move in with him now that she's 5 months pregnant. She knew Michael has a wife and that the wife disappeared but didn't press for more details because she knew Michael is a private person. The second view is Michael. Michael claimed that his wife, Joanna left him and broke up with him via text 6 months ago. The third view is Rachael, Michael's neighbor. Her husband works for Michael. She also likes to gossip. The fourth view is Detective Shaw. He's investigating a mystery death found across the street from Michael's home.
In Her Shadow is well written and one of a kind read. Knowing the main character will die and then following her view of her days leading up to it is suspenseful. Her days though seems dull most times but the tension with Michael and other characters along with the memories of Joanna makes readers want to flip the pages. Detective Shaw sounds like a great husband. Again, I love reading thrillers when I couldn't guess who the killer is and this is another book I couldn't guess. I recommend everyone to read this story!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.wordpress.com for more details
***Many thanks to Ballantine Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
June 11, 2020
(4.5 Stars) Kristin Miller has penned a clever modern retelling of Daphne du Maurier’s REBECCA with its own delicious twists in her latest novel IN HER SHADOW. The young protagonist Colleen finds herself pregnant and living at Ravenwood, her boyfriend Michael’s lavish seaside estate. Months earlier, Michael’s wife Joanna left him and abandoned Ravenwood, yet Colleen still feels her oppressive control within its walls. The situation gets much worse when human remains are found across the street, and Michael becomes a suspect.
This book was an exciting combination of mystery and Gothic suspense that kept me guessing. Ravenwood was gorgeous but creepy, and I couldn’t wait to find out what secrets it held. The story is told from a few different characters’ perspective, and I was never quite sure who to trust. The surprising twist at the end was one I did NOT see coming, a definite what?!? moment. Enjoyed!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was an exciting combination of mystery and Gothic suspense that kept me guessing. Ravenwood was gorgeous but creepy, and I couldn’t wait to find out what secrets it held. The story is told from a few different characters’ perspective, and I was never quite sure who to trust. The surprising twist at the end was one I did NOT see coming, a definite what?!? moment. Enjoyed!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2020
I have to admit that I didn’t have high hopes for this book when I first started reading.
Colleen was involved with her married boss, became pregnant by him, moved into his mansion, and quit her job - while he was still married to someone else.
I thought, another misguided woman attached to a man not forthcoming about his past wife.
Didn’t I just finish a book or three like that?
I’m thrilled to say I was wrong as the story picked up and swept me along with it.
While questions of what happened to Michael’s prior wife twinned this book with others, I think execution separated this from the pack.
Multiple narrators gave extra life with some unlikable but colorful characters. Everyone is suspect!
In addition to the lovely setting was an even lovelier ending. Very clever!
If you decide to read this, do yourself a favor and don’t read ahead.
Thank you to Goodreads Give-aways, Kristen Miller, and Ballantine Books for my electronic review copy in exchange for an honest review.
.
Colleen was involved with her married boss, became pregnant by him, moved into his mansion, and quit her job - while he was still married to someone else.
I thought, another misguided woman attached to a man not forthcoming about his past wife.
Didn’t I just finish a book or three like that?
I’m thrilled to say I was wrong as the story picked up and swept me along with it.
While questions of what happened to Michael’s prior wife twinned this book with others, I think execution separated this from the pack.
Multiple narrators gave extra life with some unlikable but colorful characters. Everyone is suspect!
In addition to the lovely setting was an even lovelier ending. Very clever!
If you decide to read this, do yourself a favor and don’t read ahead.
Thank you to Goodreads Give-aways, Kristen Miller, and Ballantine Books for my electronic review copy in exchange for an honest review.
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April 22, 2020
A Modern Mystery Based On An Old Cult Classic
Colleen is madly in love and also five months pregnant and is moving in with Michael who wants to take care of her and make her life easier. Michael was Colleen's former employer and he has been separated from his wife for about five months around the same time Colleen got pregnant. (Interesting?). Unbeknownst to Colleen, her new home is a secluded gothic styled mansion (Raven Manor) and immediately she feels the vibes that she is not welcome and the whole household seems to revolve around the mysterious former lady of the house, Joanna. Colleen fears that Michael may be waiting for Joanna to return to Raven Manor when only days after moving in a body is discovered yards away from their home and for Colleen her world will never be the same again
This was a fast and easy read with suspicion and cold characters throughout the story. The last chapter was a devious and unexpected way to end the story which I did appreciate. Unfortunately for me, I thought all the characters were very shallow and unlikable and the book was based on "Rebecca" so I was really looking for that dark and atmospheric storytelling and it just seemed to fall flat rate in that area. There was quite a bit of mystery and questionable motives of all the characters so that did keep the book moving very quickly but I just couldn't connect with any of the personalities involved. Many other reviewers gave high ratings for this book so I do recommend it so you may read it and base your own opinions about the story.
I want to thank the publisher "Random House Publishing and Ballentine Books" and Netgalley for granting my wish and awarding this copy to me and all opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this book a rating of 2 1/2 Shallow ❇❇⭐ Stars!!
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Colleen is madly in love and also five months pregnant and is moving in with Michael who wants to take care of her and make her life easier. Michael was Colleen's former employer and he has been separated from his wife for about five months around the same time Colleen got pregnant. (Interesting?). Unbeknownst to Colleen, her new home is a secluded gothic styled mansion (Raven Manor) and immediately she feels the vibes that she is not welcome and the whole household seems to revolve around the mysterious former lady of the house, Joanna. Colleen fears that Michael may be waiting for Joanna to return to Raven Manor when only days after moving in a body is discovered yards away from their home and for Colleen her world will never be the same again
This was a fast and easy read with suspicion and cold characters throughout the story. The last chapter was a devious and unexpected way to end the story which I did appreciate. Unfortunately for me, I thought all the characters were very shallow and unlikable and the book was based on "Rebecca" so I was really looking for that dark and atmospheric storytelling and it just seemed to fall flat rate in that area. There was quite a bit of mystery and questionable motives of all the characters so that did keep the book moving very quickly but I just couldn't connect with any of the personalities involved. Many other reviewers gave high ratings for this book so I do recommend it so you may read it and base your own opinions about the story.
I want to thank the publisher "Random House Publishing and Ballentine Books" and Netgalley for granting my wish and awarding this copy to me and all opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this book a rating of 2 1/2 Shallow ❇❇⭐ Stars!!
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February 15, 2020
I won this via goodreads giveaways in exchange for an honest review. All my opinions are my own.
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Very atmospheric and twisty. Didn't guess the culprit till near the very end and certain wording did send a chill up my spine. The Who part of it was well done but somewhat disappointing too. I've watched a lot of crime shows too so that probly partly influenced me as well.
Well done for the most part, would recommend to those new to the genre.
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Very atmospheric and twisty. Didn't guess the culprit till near the very end and certain wording did send a chill up my spine. The Who part of it was well done but somewhat disappointing too. I've watched a lot of crime shows too so that probly partly influenced me as well.
Well done for the most part, would recommend to those new to the genre.
June 23, 2020
Of course I always pick books that I think that I am going to enjoy, but I have to admit even I was surprised how interesting that I really found this story was. I DID figure out the mystery although not until I read 3/4 of the book...
4.25 stars
4.25 stars
March 10, 2020
A twisted tale that will keep you guessing! I would classify this as a mystery or domestic thriller. Everyone is a suspect and I didn't figure it out until near the end. Colleen is pregnant and is taken by her boyfriend Michael to his home, Ravenwood as a peaceful, no-stress place for her pregnancy. Michael's wife, Joanna, had left him a little before Colleen got a job in Michael's office and they fell in love.
When they arrive at Ravenwood, things are not exactly what Colleen expected. The staff and the neighbors all loved Joanna and reminders of Joanna are constantly showing up. Then a body is found nearby and the mystery and investigation begins.
There were some twists and surprises here which I enjoyed and the plot was well done. There wasn't a lot of character development, so I never felt close to any of the characters.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballentine through Netgalley for ad advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
When they arrive at Ravenwood, things are not exactly what Colleen expected. The staff and the neighbors all loved Joanna and reminders of Joanna are constantly showing up. Then a body is found nearby and the mystery and investigation begins.
There were some twists and surprises here which I enjoyed and the plot was well done. There wasn't a lot of character development, so I never felt close to any of the characters.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballentine through Netgalley for ad advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2020
I kept reading all of the comparisons to Daphne Du Maurier’s Rebecca (which is one of my favorite classics), so I knew this was a must-read for me. As there just is no comparison in my eyes to Rebecca, this couldn't help but come up a bit short for me for a number of reasons.
Protagonist Colleen Roper, who was once the assistant to wealthy Michael Harris, discovers she’s pregnant with his child. Michael then invites Colleen to move from her tiny apartment to his mansion (although she didn't even know he lived in a mansion, as they only ever stayed at her apartment - first eye roll moment for me). Colleen's arrival is met with a rather frosty welcome from both the housekeeper and the chef, both of whom were devoted to Michael’s wife, Joanna, who mysteriously disappeared six months earlier (second eye roll moment - Joanna disappears and everyone thinks she just ran away from everything she knows, all while pregnant?). Of course, Colleen becomes obsessed with Joanna as she struggles to measure up. There are lots of creepy happenstances with robes and perfume that no one normal character would have fallen for, especially once she realized that all of the staff was against her.
Joanna’s body is eventually found in a grove near the mansion, and Michael becomes the prime suspect in her murder. Colleen is determined to prove Michael innocent despite his rather shady actions (third eye roll moment). There are too-numerous-to-count other suspects and motives, so enter Detective Shaw to figure it all out. Once the book ventured into the procedural side of the investigation, it really lost me.
The POVs in this one are also confusing, as each character's chapter portrays the other characters completely different than the chapters told from those characters' POV. I am all about an unreliable narrator or two but this ventured into the realm of ridiculous. In the end, Miller neither creates any characters to care about nor builds up any sense of terror. There were a few somewhat interesting plot twists that saved this from being a 2-star book for me, but overall, they couldn't save this rather uninspired remake of Rebecca. 3 stars.
Protagonist Colleen Roper, who was once the assistant to wealthy Michael Harris, discovers she’s pregnant with his child. Michael then invites Colleen to move from her tiny apartment to his mansion (although she didn't even know he lived in a mansion, as they only ever stayed at her apartment - first eye roll moment for me). Colleen's arrival is met with a rather frosty welcome from both the housekeeper and the chef, both of whom were devoted to Michael’s wife, Joanna, who mysteriously disappeared six months earlier (second eye roll moment - Joanna disappears and everyone thinks she just ran away from everything she knows, all while pregnant?). Of course, Colleen becomes obsessed with Joanna as she struggles to measure up. There are lots of creepy happenstances with robes and perfume that no one normal character would have fallen for, especially once she realized that all of the staff was against her.
Joanna’s body is eventually found in a grove near the mansion, and Michael becomes the prime suspect in her murder. Colleen is determined to prove Michael innocent despite his rather shady actions (third eye roll moment). There are too-numerous-to-count other suspects and motives, so enter Detective Shaw to figure it all out. Once the book ventured into the procedural side of the investigation, it really lost me.
The POVs in this one are also confusing, as each character's chapter portrays the other characters completely different than the chapters told from those characters' POV. I am all about an unreliable narrator or two but this ventured into the realm of ridiculous. In the end, Miller neither creates any characters to care about nor builds up any sense of terror. There were a few somewhat interesting plot twists that saved this from being a 2-star book for me, but overall, they couldn't save this rather uninspired remake of Rebecca. 3 stars.
April 29, 2020
Colleen Roper feels like she's won the lottery. She became pregnant by her boss, Michael, who has lots of money and takes her away from her humdrum life to his mansion in the country. There's a cook and a housekeeper ... unfortunately they do not particularly like her.
Michael's wife disappeared months ago, but his wife's memory lives on. She's expected to eat the same foods, sleep in her old room, dress the same as his wife, Joanna. There's a suite of rooms that she's forbidden to enter.
She's not exactly happy with the situation, but when human bones are found are found close to her new home ... and the detectives names Michael as the prime suspect.
The detectives aren't the only ones who suspect Michael of murder... and since the police don't seem to want to consider anyone else, she does what she has to do to claim her new life for herself and her baby-to-be.
As Colleen untangles truth from lies, she discovers that nothing is what it seems, and that some people will kill to keep their secrets as quiet as the dead.
There are more twists and turns than a roller coaster. The suspense starts on the very first page and maintains a steady rise until the very last page with an unexpected terrifying conclusion. Kudos to the author for the fascinating chapter titles that are a countdown to a murder. As a woman who becomes obsessed with her boyfriend's wife, and the father of her baby, who definitely has secrets, the characters are skillfully drawn.
Many thanks to the author / Random House Publishing - Ballantine / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Michael's wife disappeared months ago, but his wife's memory lives on. She's expected to eat the same foods, sleep in her old room, dress the same as his wife, Joanna. There's a suite of rooms that she's forbidden to enter.
She's not exactly happy with the situation, but when human bones are found are found close to her new home ... and the detectives names Michael as the prime suspect.
The detectives aren't the only ones who suspect Michael of murder... and since the police don't seem to want to consider anyone else, she does what she has to do to claim her new life for herself and her baby-to-be.
As Colleen untangles truth from lies, she discovers that nothing is what it seems, and that some people will kill to keep their secrets as quiet as the dead.
There are more twists and turns than a roller coaster. The suspense starts on the very first page and maintains a steady rise until the very last page with an unexpected terrifying conclusion. Kudos to the author for the fascinating chapter titles that are a countdown to a murder. As a woman who becomes obsessed with her boyfriend's wife, and the father of her baby, who definitely has secrets, the characters are skillfully drawn.
Many thanks to the author / Random House Publishing - Ballantine / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 17, 2020
3.5 Stars
"Desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth death."- In Her Shadow.
SYNOPSIS: Once his secretary, Colleen is now pregnant with Michael's baby. When he brings her to his opulent estate, Ravenwood, she is abruptly thrust into a life of luxury she's never known. But Colleen finds the immense house suffused with the memory of Michael's beautiful wife, Joanna, who left months ago and who haunts her imagination. It quickly becomes apparent that there is little room for a new mistress of this house: The staff greets her with hostility, and there are entire wings and corridors from which she is prohibited to enter.
Then bones are unearthed in the grove across the street.
When Michael falls under the suspicion of the detectives investigating the case, the soon-to-be mother of his child finds herself hurled deeper into her boyfriend's dark past--a past that threatens to upend all her dreams. But the terrifying secrets lurking in the shadows of Ravenwood pale in comparison to the drastic measures Colleen will take to stake a claim to her new life. - In Her Shadow
REVIEW: Thank you so much to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group, Ballantine Books, and Kristin Miller for providing me an advanced reader copy of the book in order for an honest review. Overall, I rated this book 3.5 stars but decided to round the rating up to four stars for review purposes. I am such a fan of domestic thrillers and found this book to be right up my alley. I enjoyed reading this book, found it to be thrilling, and it did keep me guessing throughout the entire book, which is something I enjoy. However, I felt that the plot had some holes which affected the ending for me. For example, the detectives in the story don't seem to catch on to some similar findings (keeping this vague so I don't spoil the story). I also think that there was so much that they missed just out of pure convenience for the plot. One of the characters also seemed to conveniently know some knowledge about another character's whereabouts, and I have no idea how they found this out as it was not present in the book.
I did love the ending of the book and felt that the final twist was great. However, I am not sure I like how it was all revealed. There were great lead-ups to the final reveal, but the last part of the book tells the reader what all happened in a couple of pages or so. I would have rather had more hints or seen the development of this more throughout the book. It felt like a lot at once, and I would have rather had the suspense more drawn out. As I mentioned, the book did keep me guessing the entire time and I was not able to figure out what happened on my own, so this was a good ending.
The characters in this book were all unlikeable people in one way or another, but I think that's what makes this book so good. You are trying to figure out the mystery, but are led in so many directions because everyone is hiding secrets or participating in some shady behavior. I think the characters were all unique and I had no problem telling them apart when parts of the story were told from their perspective (I believe there were four perspectives overall). I think that part of the reason why this story was so interesting to me was because of the characters and the situations that they are all in.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book and would recommend it to people who are fans of thriller books, and especially those who are fans of domestic thrillers. From what I understand from other reviews, it seems like this is the first (or one of the first) thrillers that Kristin Miller has written, and I hope that she keeps writing more. I would be excited to see what she comes up with next, and I also plan to check out her previous titles.
RELEASE DATE: April 21, 2020
"Desire, when it has conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth death."- In Her Shadow.
SYNOPSIS: Once his secretary, Colleen is now pregnant with Michael's baby. When he brings her to his opulent estate, Ravenwood, she is abruptly thrust into a life of luxury she's never known. But Colleen finds the immense house suffused with the memory of Michael's beautiful wife, Joanna, who left months ago and who haunts her imagination. It quickly becomes apparent that there is little room for a new mistress of this house: The staff greets her with hostility, and there are entire wings and corridors from which she is prohibited to enter.
Then bones are unearthed in the grove across the street.
When Michael falls under the suspicion of the detectives investigating the case, the soon-to-be mother of his child finds herself hurled deeper into her boyfriend's dark past--a past that threatens to upend all her dreams. But the terrifying secrets lurking in the shadows of Ravenwood pale in comparison to the drastic measures Colleen will take to stake a claim to her new life. - In Her Shadow
REVIEW: Thank you so much to NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group, Ballantine Books, and Kristin Miller for providing me an advanced reader copy of the book in order for an honest review. Overall, I rated this book 3.5 stars but decided to round the rating up to four stars for review purposes. I am such a fan of domestic thrillers and found this book to be right up my alley. I enjoyed reading this book, found it to be thrilling, and it did keep me guessing throughout the entire book, which is something I enjoy. However, I felt that the plot had some holes which affected the ending for me. For example, the detectives in the story don't seem to catch on to some similar findings (keeping this vague so I don't spoil the story). I also think that there was so much that they missed just out of pure convenience for the plot. One of the characters also seemed to conveniently know some knowledge about another character's whereabouts, and I have no idea how they found this out as it was not present in the book.
I did love the ending of the book and felt that the final twist was great. However, I am not sure I like how it was all revealed. There were great lead-ups to the final reveal, but the last part of the book tells the reader what all happened in a couple of pages or so. I would have rather had more hints or seen the development of this more throughout the book. It felt like a lot at once, and I would have rather had the suspense more drawn out. As I mentioned, the book did keep me guessing the entire time and I was not able to figure out what happened on my own, so this was a good ending.
The characters in this book were all unlikeable people in one way or another, but I think that's what makes this book so good. You are trying to figure out the mystery, but are led in so many directions because everyone is hiding secrets or participating in some shady behavior. I think the characters were all unique and I had no problem telling them apart when parts of the story were told from their perspective (I believe there were four perspectives overall). I think that part of the reason why this story was so interesting to me was because of the characters and the situations that they are all in.
Overall, I enjoyed my time reading this book and would recommend it to people who are fans of thriller books, and especially those who are fans of domestic thrillers. From what I understand from other reviews, it seems like this is the first (or one of the first) thrillers that Kristin Miller has written, and I hope that she keeps writing more. I would be excited to see what she comes up with next, and I also plan to check out her previous titles.
RELEASE DATE: April 21, 2020
April 23, 2020
A modern day Rebecca? I’m in!
Firstly, in the Prologue, Colleen is lying on the wine-cellar floor, her leg crumpled beneath her, with Ravenswood burning above her. What an intriguing start! From there the chapters begin titled “One Week Until Colleen’s Murder,” then counts down from the days, to hours, with the third-to-last “After” title an “ahah” moment for me, - I loved Kristin Miller’s smart play on titles and what they finally revealed!
Colleen is pregnant with her boss Michael Harris’s baby. After experiencing spotting, her doctor tells her she has to rest and relax. Michael then moves her into his luxurious stone-faced home, Ravenswood, built to look like a gothic castle. It had previously been Michael and his wife, Joanna’s home. Located off the beaten path just south of San Francisco, the home sets across a Monterey cypress grove and has a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. Colleen is ecstatic but intimidated. Michael had never let on that he lived in a mansion plucked from a luxury living magazine. Michael gives her a grand tour, ending upstairs with the only request that Colleen lets him know if she needs access to the rooms in the East Wing. All doors are kept locked. Hmmm.. she’s curious to find out what lies behind them.
Six months before Colleen started working as Michael’s personal secretary, his 5-month pregnant wife, Joanna, disappears. Even so, everyone in and around Ravenswood still talks of/thinks about Joanna, leaving no room for Michael’s new girlfriend, Colleen, who feels trivial compared to HER.
24-hours after Colleen moves in, the body of a woman is found in a shallow grave in the cypress grove. With Detectives Shaw and Patel on the case, almost everyone is a suspect -the chef, the housekeeper, the neighbors-Rachel and Travis Martin, and yes, Michael himself.
I highly enjoyed this sinister psychological thriller with the ghost of Joanna seemingly haunting everyone associated with Ravenswood. It mirrored one of my favorites, Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, and the mystery surrounding her death read like the pages out of a Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie mystery. An intriguing tangled web of greed, envy, lust, adultery, and murder. Great spine-tingling suspense. Definitely a must read.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Random House - Ballantine for this ARC.
Firstly, in the Prologue, Colleen is lying on the wine-cellar floor, her leg crumpled beneath her, with Ravenswood burning above her. What an intriguing start! From there the chapters begin titled “One Week Until Colleen’s Murder,” then counts down from the days, to hours, with the third-to-last “After” title an “ahah” moment for me, - I loved Kristin Miller’s smart play on titles and what they finally revealed!
Colleen is pregnant with her boss Michael Harris’s baby. After experiencing spotting, her doctor tells her she has to rest and relax. Michael then moves her into his luxurious stone-faced home, Ravenswood, built to look like a gothic castle. It had previously been Michael and his wife, Joanna’s home. Located off the beaten path just south of San Francisco, the home sets across a Monterey cypress grove and has a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. Colleen is ecstatic but intimidated. Michael had never let on that he lived in a mansion plucked from a luxury living magazine. Michael gives her a grand tour, ending upstairs with the only request that Colleen lets him know if she needs access to the rooms in the East Wing. All doors are kept locked. Hmmm.. she’s curious to find out what lies behind them.
Six months before Colleen started working as Michael’s personal secretary, his 5-month pregnant wife, Joanna, disappears. Even so, everyone in and around Ravenswood still talks of/thinks about Joanna, leaving no room for Michael’s new girlfriend, Colleen, who feels trivial compared to HER.
24-hours after Colleen moves in, the body of a woman is found in a shallow grave in the cypress grove. With Detectives Shaw and Patel on the case, almost everyone is a suspect -the chef, the housekeeper, the neighbors-Rachel and Travis Martin, and yes, Michael himself.
I highly enjoyed this sinister psychological thriller with the ghost of Joanna seemingly haunting everyone associated with Ravenswood. It mirrored one of my favorites, Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, and the mystery surrounding her death read like the pages out of a Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie mystery. An intriguing tangled web of greed, envy, lust, adultery, and murder. Great spine-tingling suspense. Definitely a must read.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Random House - Ballantine for this ARC.
April 21, 2020
Wow! That was a twisted story! This was a hard to put down book, it kept me guessing! Definitely recommend!
Thanks to the publisher for granting my wish
Thanks to the publisher for granting my wish
July 2, 2020
MY REVIEW:
Hmmm... I have mixed feelings about this book. I liked it for the most part. It is a similar story to Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier, but definitely not the same story. Joanna (the first wife in this book) is the same as Rebecca, but the storyline is slightly altered in places and majorly altered in others. I also did not believe that this book was as atmospheric and creepy as Rebecca. Samara definitely doesn't compare with Mrs. Danvers.
Anyways, I did enjoy the book up until the end - which I thought took a strange turn that didn't make much sense. It could have made sense (I guess) and potentially been a fabulous twisty ending, but I felt like I should have been able to look back and think "Oh yeah... That's what they were up to." But, unfortunately, I can't look back and feel that way - it just felt like one of the characters completely changed who they were on a dime. And since it was a character that we had been reading their first-person point of view - it seems like in retrospect we should at least think it makes sense...
Anyways, that inconsistency brought this book from a 4 star to 3 for me. However, it was very readable writing and an entertaining book.
MY RATING:
Characters: 3
Story: 3
Overall: 3 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Hmmm... I have mixed feelings about this book. I liked it for the most part. It is a similar story to Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier, but definitely not the same story. Joanna (the first wife in this book) is the same as Rebecca, but the storyline is slightly altered in places and majorly altered in others. I also did not believe that this book was as atmospheric and creepy as Rebecca. Samara definitely doesn't compare with Mrs. Danvers.
Anyways, I did enjoy the book up until the end - which I thought took a strange turn that didn't make much sense. It could have made sense (I guess) and potentially been a fabulous twisty ending, but I felt like I should have been able to look back and think "Oh yeah... That's what they were up to." But, unfortunately, I can't look back and feel that way - it just felt like one of the characters completely changed who they were on a dime. And since it was a character that we had been reading their first-person point of view - it seems like in retrospect we should at least think it makes sense...
Anyways, that inconsistency brought this book from a 4 star to 3 for me. However, it was very readable writing and an entertaining book.
MY RATING:
Characters: 3
Story: 3
Overall: 3 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 27, 2020
A dark and twisty thriller that left me guessing until the end! This was wholly atmospheric with a creepy setting. The characters were unlikable and I was confused to their ties. The writing was well done and set the tone for a creepy experience! The final big twist was well done and surprised me. Thank you to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
Read
April 28, 2020Just because a life looks bathed in light, does not mean you should want to step into its shadows.
Once a personal assistant, Colleen isn't sure what to expect as she steps through the doors of Ravenwood, into the lap of luxury. Pregnant with her boyfriend and former boss Michael's baby, she attempts to find her place in his estate. But life in his safe haven feels so alienating. Why can't she it enter certain wings of the house? Where does the shrine to his former wife, Joanna, end, and her home begin? She's supposedly gone to her sister's, and out of the way forever, but Michael and his house become increasingly closed off.
And then a body is found across the street. As the investigation starts, what dark secrets will step out of the shadows?
A story of mothers and murder. How do you step into the future when the present won't let you forget the past?
Trigger warnings for injury, pregnancy complications, mention of dead parents, mention of a dead spouse, grief, adultery, pet death, domestic abuse, drinking, derogatory slurs, miscarriage, harassment, and anxiety.
A huge thank you to Ballantine Books and Kristin Miller for my giveaway copy win! All opinions are my own.
Anxious, loving Colleen was intimidated by her new lifestyle. Undoubtedly naive, the mother-to-be can't shake the feeling that she's not measuring up. Craving a life, a look, and a love all her own, what if even she can't escape the lingering presence of Ravenwood's former mistress?
Oh Joanna we adore you, our lovely shining star. Oh Joanna, we see you for the witch we think you really are. From a rich financier who's morally broke, to frosty, formerly friendly house staff, to nosey neighbors, to a grieving detective with a fresh perspective, many upended Colleen's life as they polished and pushed over the pedestal they kept Joanna on. But as soon as anyone dared to look deeper into their admiration, secrets and lies came to the open to fly. Who did what with whom? My, my, tempers did fly.
Who wants to stand in their predecessors shadow? But what if everyone else is content to remember only their light? Darkly atmospheric, the easy to picture setting pulled me into this misty and predictably twisty "romantic" chiller. My ability to see things coming allowed me to enjoyably follow the trails of the characters' dirtiest and possibly murderous laundry, but also see holes in the construction of their tangley web. Be warned, shifting perspectives let you play detective with a 360° view, while they give newer readers of the mystery genre the slip. Love and longing, secrets and sorrows, obsession and opposition filled these Rebecca inspired pages. While In Her Shadow never blinded me with the unexpected, I would happily read from Kristin Miller again.
Are you tempted to step In Her Shadow?
Once a personal assistant, Colleen isn't sure what to expect as she steps through the doors of Ravenwood, into the lap of luxury. Pregnant with her boyfriend and former boss Michael's baby, she attempts to find her place in his estate. But life in his safe haven feels so alienating. Why can't she it enter certain wings of the house? Where does the shrine to his former wife, Joanna, end, and her home begin? She's supposedly gone to her sister's, and out of the way forever, but Michael and his house become increasingly closed off.
And then a body is found across the street. As the investigation starts, what dark secrets will step out of the shadows?
A story of mothers and murder. How do you step into the future when the present won't let you forget the past?
Trigger warnings for injury, pregnancy complications, mention of dead parents, mention of a dead spouse, grief, adultery, pet death, domestic abuse, drinking, derogatory slurs, miscarriage, harassment, and anxiety.
A huge thank you to Ballantine Books and Kristin Miller for my giveaway copy win! All opinions are my own.
Anxious, loving Colleen was intimidated by her new lifestyle. Undoubtedly naive, the mother-to-be can't shake the feeling that she's not measuring up. Craving a life, a look, and a love all her own, what if even she can't escape the lingering presence of Ravenwood's former mistress?
Oh Joanna we adore you, our lovely shining star. Oh Joanna, we see you for the witch we think you really are. From a rich financier who's morally broke, to frosty, formerly friendly house staff, to nosey neighbors, to a grieving detective with a fresh perspective, many upended Colleen's life as they polished and pushed over the pedestal they kept Joanna on. But as soon as anyone dared to look deeper into their admiration, secrets and lies came to the open to fly. Who did what with whom? My, my, tempers did fly.
Who wants to stand in their predecessors shadow? But what if everyone else is content to remember only their light? Darkly atmospheric, the easy to picture setting pulled me into this misty and predictably twisty "romantic" chiller. My ability to see things coming allowed me to enjoyably follow the trails of the characters' dirtiest and possibly murderous laundry, but also see holes in the construction of their tangley web. Be warned, shifting perspectives let you play detective with a 360° view, while they give newer readers of the mystery genre the slip. Love and longing, secrets and sorrows, obsession and opposition filled these Rebecca inspired pages. While In Her Shadow never blinded me with the unexpected, I would happily read from Kristin Miller again.
Are you tempted to step In Her Shadow?
June 20, 2020
Sometimes I wish there were categories for books like there are for hotels. After all, is it really fair to compare a roadside motel with the caliber of a luxury spa retreat? Within a roadside motel comparison I can rate this book more evenly. In Her Shadow is a 3-star book through and through. However, it's a pretty good 3-star book if don't compare it with a book outside of its class. If it were a roadside hotel it would be a pretty decent one. It has the essentials and it's clean. That's all I'm really asking for. This book is no 4 or 5 star hotel book, okay? Is this analogy even making sense anymore? Who knows! What I'm trying to say is that if you go into this read expecting it to fall within a certain type of standard then you might actually, dare I say it?, have a bit of fun!
Reading this felt like watching a simply structured but no less entertaining television show, like Pretty Little Liars or something similar. The characters motives do not always make sense. No one you know in real life acts like these people act. But you sacrifice all of that for the sake of moving the story forward.
If you're in the mood for that it can be pretty fun! Ie. I read this in 48 hours. I didn't have to think that hard. I had a good time judging the characters for their poor decisions and their vanity.
So, is this the literary mystery of the year? Absolutely not. Will it win prestigious awards? It shouldn't. But is it fun for a few days of simple mystery/suspense reading? I thought so!
Verdict: Borrow it :)
Reading this felt like watching a simply structured but no less entertaining television show, like Pretty Little Liars or something similar. The characters motives do not always make sense. No one you know in real life acts like these people act. But you sacrifice all of that for the sake of moving the story forward.
If you're in the mood for that it can be pretty fun! Ie. I read this in 48 hours. I didn't have to think that hard. I had a good time judging the characters for their poor decisions and their vanity.
So, is this the literary mystery of the year? Absolutely not. Will it win prestigious awards? It shouldn't. But is it fun for a few days of simple mystery/suspense reading? I thought so!
Verdict: Borrow it :)
July 13, 2020
I've read some excellent thrillers this year, and In Her Shadow fits right in with those. The tone is ominous throughout, and I can see why the book is compared to some of the classic gothic novels. We know Colleen is in danger from the first page, and her story slowly uncovers. She has moved in with her boyfriend Michael, and finds his house is a mansion, with forbidden rooms, hostile servants, and everyone (including Michael) focused on his wife Joanna, who left him a year ago. It sounds as if Joanna was perfect - but was she?
There isn't much more I want to say about the plot, because the fun is in the unfolding. The book switches point of view quite often, so just be aware, especially if that is a device you dislike. Even seeing inside peoples' minds, it is difficult to guess what is happening until towards the end. I'd recommend it for thriller lovers.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read a copy to review.
There isn't much more I want to say about the plot, because the fun is in the unfolding. The book switches point of view quite often, so just be aware, especially if that is a device you dislike. Even seeing inside peoples' minds, it is difficult to guess what is happening until towards the end. I'd recommend it for thriller lovers.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read a copy to review.
March 6, 2020
I loved the gothic feel of this novel as it's compared to Rebecca! Newly pregnant Colleen moves into her boyfriend's Ravenwood mansion after his wife has left him. Soon it is discovered that his wife, Joanna has been brutally murdered and there appear to be many suspects as husband Michael was often abusive and Joanna may have been unfaithful. I also love a book told from multiple perspectives, flawed characters, secrets. lies, deceptions, and red herrings--all of which occur in this novel. Miller explores the darker aspects of obsession, marriage, relationships, and appearances; and the ending may shock you senseless!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
June 12, 2020
I am not typically a suspense reader, but I do love a good Rebecca reference. This read fast and easy. It was twisty enough to keep me turning the pages and didn't scare me into nightmares. It was a good, light mystery with a good plot turn at the end that I didn't have all the way figured out. It wouldn't be my first recommendation for true suspense readers, but is light enough for dabblers like me.
April 8, 2020
2.5 stars. This is an entertaining mystery with lots of twists and turns. Colleen, pregnant and in a relationship with her boss, moves into his mansion in a small community where everyone loves his estranged wife, Joanna, who has moved out to live with her sister--or has she? The story kept me reading, although I did guess a lot of the major twists by the time I got to them. I didn't feel like the characters were especially compelling or fleshed out, so overall this was just okay for me.
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
*I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2020
If you are a fan of Daphne du Maurier's classic novel Rebecca, you may want to read this one. It is kind of a reworking/modern reimagining of Rebecca, set in the present time in California. It's a good book with classic gothic intrigue and suspense, but I have to agree with some other reviewers and call it out on not being very consistent in the end. There is a twist toward the end that I didn't see coming which was great, but I think the author could have handled it a little better earlier in the book.
Still highly recommend it to gothic romance and Rebecca fans alike. Check it out.
Still highly recommend it to gothic romance and Rebecca fans alike. Check it out.
June 14, 2024
I spent my formative teen years cutting my teeth on soap operas and Gothics, and for all those reasons this one really worked for me. I thought the multiple POVs worked well in this instance and it kept the story twisting and turning because, frankly, there's nobody really "likeable" here. They ALL had a motive to kill. It kept me guessing right up until the end. Entertaining listen on audiobook.
March 5, 2020
Kristin Miller presents chapter titles that really work on the suspense of this novel. Count downs to the murder of the main character Colleen Roper! Although this was a page turner and did have a jaw dropping ending; I was just not invested in the characters involved. "A copy of this book was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine via Netgalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion."
January 17, 2020
Colleen is five months pregnant and moving into the palatial house of her boyfriend (and recently former boss), Michael. Michael's wife, Joanna, left him 6 months ago and hasn't been heard from since. Oh, and Joanna? She was 5 months pregnant when she left. Colleen seems determined to rid herself of the figurative ghost of Joanna in the house, but that becomes harder to do when a female body is found in the grove across the street from their house.
A very loose take on the classic Rebecca, In Her Shadow is a twisty tale that will leave you guessing. And everyone is a suspect.
Honestly, this was very readable and I flew through it, but in the end, the solution to who killed her was fairly transparent early on and ultimately disappointing.
A very loose take on the classic Rebecca, In Her Shadow is a twisty tale that will leave you guessing. And everyone is a suspect.
Honestly, this was very readable and I flew through it, but in the end, the solution to who killed her was fairly transparent early on and ultimately disappointing.
February 11, 2020
Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for granting me the wish for this book!
I couldnt put this book down. When I say I read it everywhere, I mean while walking the dog, making dinner, and until 3 in the morning on a work night.
I loved how much Kristin Miller built the characters so that they came alive off of the page. She is a very talented author and this book is a perfect twisted and twisty book. There were characters to root for and characters to hate and everytime I thought I had it figured out, the author threw me with a twist.
10 stars. If you have this on your TBR shelf, READ IT NOW!!! :-)
I couldnt put this book down. When I say I read it everywhere, I mean while walking the dog, making dinner, and until 3 in the morning on a work night.
I loved how much Kristin Miller built the characters so that they came alive off of the page. She is a very talented author and this book is a perfect twisted and twisty book. There were characters to root for and characters to hate and everytime I thought I had it figured out, the author threw me with a twist.
10 stars. If you have this on your TBR shelf, READ IT NOW!!! :-)
May 16, 2020
A really good mystery that starts with a bang....then rolls out the story of Colleen. Skillfully written to add clues with each new character, the mystery won't be solved until the very end. Every time you think you've figured it out, Kristen Miller presents us with enough information to see another suspect. As a young pregnant woman with too much time on her hands, Colleen is presented with a murder investigation where the victim, criminal and indeed the crime scene, maybe too close to home. As the tension builds, the ending will come as a surprise.
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