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In Plain Sight
Across Colorado, girls are disappearing. Mabel Peters and her partner, Frankie Dowdy, have dedicated their lives to bring them home before they are gone for good.
Thirteen-year-old Isabel Dumel is no longer a child, but not yet an adult. Her mom is dead and her dad is in prison, and she wants nothing more than to put it all behind her. But when she's kidnapped, her only hope is her mentor and good friend, Mabel Peters. The investigation thrusts Mabel into the dark heart of a multi-billion-dollar industry and Isabel quickly confronts her greatest fear—No one is coming to save her.
Mabel finds herself caught in a cat-and-mouse game, risking her own life as she pursues clues along the edge of the southern Rocky Mountains. Uncovering new secrets in Isabel's life, Mabel soon learns she isn't the only one on the hunt: someone close to Isabel is onto her and closing in fast.
In Plain Sight is a story of survival—of not giving up, no matter the cost and finding hope in the darkest conditions.
From Laurie Holbrook, the second novel in the thrilling Mabel Peters series.
Thirteen-year-old Isabel Dumel is no longer a child, but not yet an adult. Her mom is dead and her dad is in prison, and she wants nothing more than to put it all behind her. But when she's kidnapped, her only hope is her mentor and good friend, Mabel Peters. The investigation thrusts Mabel into the dark heart of a multi-billion-dollar industry and Isabel quickly confronts her greatest fear—No one is coming to save her.
Mabel finds herself caught in a cat-and-mouse game, risking her own life as she pursues clues along the edge of the southern Rocky Mountains. Uncovering new secrets in Isabel's life, Mabel soon learns she isn't the only one on the hunt: someone close to Isabel is onto her and closing in fast.
In Plain Sight is a story of survival—of not giving up, no matter the cost and finding hope in the darkest conditions.
From Laurie Holbrook, the second novel in the thrilling Mabel Peters series.
- GenresCrime
314 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2020
24 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Holbrook
3 books81 followersLaurie grew up on a farm in a small town on the southern border of Colorado. She spent most of her days outside playing in the dirt, the fields, or with her cats. Her first story she ever wrote was about her cat named Ashes. Laurie was a tomboy and still is to this day. She left the small town after high school ending up in Denver where she met her husband.
After more than twenty-five years in retail, Laurie went back to her love of writing. Her debut novel, a thriller suspense, Still Out There, released in March 2019, and the sequel, In Plain Sight, released April 14, 2020.
Laurie loves chocolate, salsa (not together), dogs, and the mountains. She is married to the best man in the world, has three children, and two pups.
After more than twenty-five years in retail, Laurie went back to her love of writing. Her debut novel, a thriller suspense, Still Out There, released in March 2019, and the sequel, In Plain Sight, released April 14, 2020.
Laurie loves chocolate, salsa (not together), dogs, and the mountains. She is married to the best man in the world, has three children, and two pups.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 7, 2020
Another win from Laurie Holbrook, In Plain Sight is book 2 of the Mabel Peters series and what a ride it was. Seeing that it focuses on human trafficking it's definitely got disturbing content, but it was vague enough that I don't think it would overwhelm you if that's a trigger.
As always I loved Frankie and Mabel and they are the most kickass hero's you could want in a book. It's always nice to see a girl in this role and I've loved Mabel ever since I was introduced to her in Still Out There. I didn't always love Isabel's viewpoint, but your heart will definitely ache for her. I think that In Plain Sight is ok as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading Still Out There beforehand so you can have all the backstory to certain characters, especially Mabel.
In Plain Sight was an incredibly quick read and it took me less than 4 hours from start to finish. I was glued to the pages and I didn't want to put it down for a second. It is so readable, and I think that's a huge plus especially with the disturbing subject matter. It reminded me a lot of a cross between a Criminal Minds episode and the movie Taken (which actually gets mentioned in the book!).
If you haven't checked out this series yet then you are missing out! I highly recommend both Still Out There and In Plain Sight, especially if you read them one after the other for the optimal reading experience. Human trafficking is such an important topic; it is definitely in the state of Colorado where this book is set, and I don't think it is a topic that gets discussed enough. So happy I read this, and I am already looking forward to Holbrook's next book!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
As always I loved Frankie and Mabel and they are the most kickass hero's you could want in a book. It's always nice to see a girl in this role and I've loved Mabel ever since I was introduced to her in Still Out There. I didn't always love Isabel's viewpoint, but your heart will definitely ache for her. I think that In Plain Sight is ok as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading Still Out There beforehand so you can have all the backstory to certain characters, especially Mabel.
In Plain Sight was an incredibly quick read and it took me less than 4 hours from start to finish. I was glued to the pages and I didn't want to put it down for a second. It is so readable, and I think that's a huge plus especially with the disturbing subject matter. It reminded me a lot of a cross between a Criminal Minds episode and the movie Taken (which actually gets mentioned in the book!).
If you haven't checked out this series yet then you are missing out! I highly recommend both Still Out There and In Plain Sight, especially if you read them one after the other for the optimal reading experience. Human trafficking is such an important topic; it is definitely in the state of Colorado where this book is set, and I don't think it is a topic that gets discussed enough. So happy I read this, and I am already looking forward to Holbrook's next book!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance review copy of this book! All opinions and thoughts are my own.
April 14, 2020
Mabel. When I think of that name I think of strong-willed, fearless and a survivor. That's all because of Mabel Peters. I love strong female characters especially in thrillers, so it's easy and safe to say that Mabel is one of my favorite female roles.
I have been "patiently" waiting for the next book and it was just as glorious for me as Still Out There.
Both books were five-star reads for me. Laurie is no doubt an auto-buy author for me!!
This book is ACTION-PACKED. Reads so easily and one you will definitely finish in one sitting. It's so good, you don't want to start reading. Told through multiple POVs with intense situations have you gripping the edge of your seat.
The ending you will NOT see coming. That's what makes Laurie's books so compelling to me. She has you guessing until the very end and hasn't disappointed me yet with how things ended.
Most thrillers are either predictable or don't include a satisfied ending, but this was not the case for In Plain Sight.
I hope all my thriller friends out there check out both books in the Mabel Peters series because they're just too good to miss!
Thank you again, Laurie, for having me be apart of this book launch and reviewing process. I love your books and truly adore you as a writer and friend. Thanks for having me!!
I have been "patiently" waiting for the next book and it was just as glorious for me as Still Out There.
Both books were five-star reads for me. Laurie is no doubt an auto-buy author for me!!
This book is ACTION-PACKED. Reads so easily and one you will definitely finish in one sitting. It's so good, you don't want to start reading. Told through multiple POVs with intense situations have you gripping the edge of your seat.
The ending you will NOT see coming. That's what makes Laurie's books so compelling to me. She has you guessing until the very end and hasn't disappointed me yet with how things ended.
Most thrillers are either predictable or don't include a satisfied ending, but this was not the case for In Plain Sight.
I hope all my thriller friends out there check out both books in the Mabel Peters series because they're just too good to miss!
Thank you again, Laurie, for having me be apart of this book launch and reviewing process. I love your books and truly adore you as a writer and friend. Thanks for having me!!
April 14, 2020
Trigger warning this book contains scenes involving sexual assault, human trafficking and violence.
In Plain Sight is a fast paced read, even though it focuses on such a difficult subject it is well written and doesn't glorify human trafficking. It offers a realistic look into such a dark world without glanorizing or sensationalized the taboo subject. It also helps bring awareness to what victims must suffer. A story of hope, perseverance , survival and determination.
Isabel just turned 13 with her mom dead and dad in jail she's living with her aunt. Then Isabel is discovered missing, Captured and taken into a sex trafficking ring. Mabel kicks into the fierce fighter she is and starts looking for Isabel. Will Mabel be able to find Isabel before its too late?
In Plain Sight is a fast paced read, even though it focuses on such a difficult subject it is well written and doesn't glorify human trafficking. It offers a realistic look into such a dark world without glanorizing or sensationalized the taboo subject. It also helps bring awareness to what victims must suffer. A story of hope, perseverance , survival and determination.
Isabel just turned 13 with her mom dead and dad in jail she's living with her aunt. Then Isabel is discovered missing, Captured and taken into a sex trafficking ring. Mabel kicks into the fierce fighter she is and starts looking for Isabel. Will Mabel be able to find Isabel before its too late?
April 14, 2020
Isabel and Mabel have been through hell and back in their lives. Their unexpected bond has solidified that no matter what someone goes through, there will always be a middle ground for friendship. When Isabel is captured and taken into a sex trafficking ring, Mabel kicks into overdrive and starts looking for her. Will she be able to track down Isabel before it's too late or will family secrets turn this story upside down?
IN PLAIN SIGHT is the second installment to the Mabel Peters series. Even though this novel could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you start with STILL OUT THERE first, in order to grasp the backstory between Mabel and Isabel. With that being said, Laurie did not disappoint the second time around. Mabel still continues to be a renegade with a fiery and respectable personality. I always enjoy her fighting spirit, even if at times it might come off a bit too impractical.
This is the first time I've read a thriller where the theme is based off of human trafficking. The realism behind this despairing, fictitious story is factually happening all over the world, and I commend Laurie for bringing this to light through her characters. Even though the situation was grotesquely sad, the delicate and well-written narration, eliminated any sense of triggers one might experience while reading.
Overall, as much as I relished in the plot's execution, I did find some parts of the book a bit wordy. Personally, I noticed at times, it sadly crippled the pace of the novel. Besides that, I'm glad I pushed through and concluded this empowering and distressful story of survival.
IN PLAIN SIGHT is the second installment to the Mabel Peters series. Even though this novel could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you start with STILL OUT THERE first, in order to grasp the backstory between Mabel and Isabel. With that being said, Laurie did not disappoint the second time around. Mabel still continues to be a renegade with a fiery and respectable personality. I always enjoy her fighting spirit, even if at times it might come off a bit too impractical.
This is the first time I've read a thriller where the theme is based off of human trafficking. The realism behind this despairing, fictitious story is factually happening all over the world, and I commend Laurie for bringing this to light through her characters. Even though the situation was grotesquely sad, the delicate and well-written narration, eliminated any sense of triggers one might experience while reading.
Overall, as much as I relished in the plot's execution, I did find some parts of the book a bit wordy. Personally, I noticed at times, it sadly crippled the pace of the novel. Besides that, I'm glad I pushed through and concluded this empowering and distressful story of survival.
April 7, 2020
A story filled with suspense and action.
This was my first encounter with Mabel Peters, and though I had heard before how much of a bada*s she is, it still didn’t prepare me for the things she did in the first chapter. I was pleasantly surprised, instantly rooting for her & the things she fought for.
The book starts with a trigger warning as the main topic is a sensitive subject. Yes, it really is a dark and sensitive subject, yet the author managed to show us all the darkness while keeping it very real at the same time.
As I read the book, I went through the emotional ride of an excited teenager, down to the shocking dark side of reality, the despair of not being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and finally the perseverance of this young robbed soul. It was endearing, disgusting at times, but most of all, empowering.
There were a few moments when I personally felt that the clues/leads and events were a little bit too easy-to-get/coincidental for them to actually happen in real life, but then again they did not ruin the flow of things or the story as a whole. Who knows, maybe Mabel is just that good!
Overall, I think the author did a very good job bringing up this otherwise taboo subject, in a way that makes the reader believe even more in the power of hope, persistence, and fighting a good fight.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first encounter with Mabel Peters, and though I had heard before how much of a bada*s she is, it still didn’t prepare me for the things she did in the first chapter. I was pleasantly surprised, instantly rooting for her & the things she fought for.
The book starts with a trigger warning as the main topic is a sensitive subject. Yes, it really is a dark and sensitive subject, yet the author managed to show us all the darkness while keeping it very real at the same time.
As I read the book, I went through the emotional ride of an excited teenager, down to the shocking dark side of reality, the despair of not being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and finally the perseverance of this young robbed soul. It was endearing, disgusting at times, but most of all, empowering.
There were a few moments when I personally felt that the clues/leads and events were a little bit too easy-to-get/coincidental for them to actually happen in real life, but then again they did not ruin the flow of things or the story as a whole. Who knows, maybe Mabel is just that good!
Overall, I think the author did a very good job bringing up this otherwise taboo subject, in a way that makes the reader believe even more in the power of hope, persistence, and fighting a good fight.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2020
First off I want to thank Laurie Holbrook @laurieaholbrook for sending me an advanced copy of her novel in exchange for an honest review.
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Mabel is back and fiercer than ever. I really enjoyed the second novel in this series. Holbrook makes you jump right back into the characters from Still Out There with details that spark back memories from the first without overshadowing the current one.
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Little warning this book is regarding the sex trafficking trade of adults and minors, with some pretty detailed information. Even if this was such a sensitive subject it was so well portrayed to make us feel the impact of the situation without glamourizing it. Holbrook has a way with words that make you feel and see every single word on the pages. The characters continue to evolve throughout this novel, some of them you grow to love more and some to hate. The author did a fantastic job at bringing awareness to this taboo subject. Her writing flows seamlessly and keeps you flipping the pages.
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If you're looking for an intense ride that will keep you invested, wanting more, definitely pick this one up !
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Mabel is back and fiercer than ever. I really enjoyed the second novel in this series. Holbrook makes you jump right back into the characters from Still Out There with details that spark back memories from the first without overshadowing the current one.
•
Little warning this book is regarding the sex trafficking trade of adults and minors, with some pretty detailed information. Even if this was such a sensitive subject it was so well portrayed to make us feel the impact of the situation without glamourizing it. Holbrook has a way with words that make you feel and see every single word on the pages. The characters continue to evolve throughout this novel, some of them you grow to love more and some to hate. The author did a fantastic job at bringing awareness to this taboo subject. Her writing flows seamlessly and keeps you flipping the pages.
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If you're looking for an intense ride that will keep you invested, wanting more, definitely pick this one up !
March 31, 2020
In Plain Sight, her second book in the series,Laurie Holbrook does a great job in continuing the characters from the first book, Still Out There. You jump right in to the current life situations of each character, the author brings in details from the first book to remind us of the characters back stories. Once again the author provides the story through each character’s point of view, which keeps the story fresh and interesting. In Plain Sight follows our heroine, Mabel Peters, as she and mentor Frankie help families recover children from abductions . Little does Mabel realize she’ll soon be too close for comfort to this topic. The author is able to realistically & carefully portray the POV of young sex trafficking victims and their abductors. We are able to see a glimpse of grooming practices of abductors and how easily at risk kids can fall into their clutches. Holbrook continues to build the depth of each character throughout the book. This is another page turner that keeps readers interested from page one.
I’m not an avid reader, in saying that I was honestly drawn in by the second book from Laurie Holbrook. I read 18 chapters on day one and finished on day two. Her style of writing flows seamlessly, I highly recommend her series.
I received an advanced copy in exchange of an honest review.
I’m not an avid reader, in saying that I was honestly drawn in by the second book from Laurie Holbrook. I read 18 chapters on day one and finished on day two. Her style of writing flows seamlessly, I highly recommend her series.
I received an advanced copy in exchange of an honest review.
April 4, 2020
Laurie did an amazing job of continuing the story but then taking us on an other adventure with these characters. I sat down and read this book in one sitting and was left wanting MORE....I can't wait for her next book. Thanks Laurie for addressing a much needed topic!!!!!
March 29, 2020
Review to come 4/14/2020
March 30, 2020
In Plain Sight follows the characters from Laurie Holbrook's first novel, Still Out There. The author does a great job of sprinkling in details from book 1 to spark the reader's memory of the first book without inundating the story with lots of flashbacks or re-hashing of book 1. This book covers a very sensitive topic - sex trafficking of minors and adults. One of the perspective's the story is told from is that of a 13 year old sex trafficking victim. Holbrook does a phenomenal job at handling such a sensitive subject with tact and great care so as not to glamorize or sensationalize the subject matter. This book offers a realistic look into the dark world of sex trafficking and helps to bring awareness to what victims must suffer. I was fully invested as a reader in the characters and storyline.
I received an Advanced Reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an Advanced Reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2020
This follow-up to "Still Out There" is a painful but necessary reminder that human trafficking is not just an "other people" or third world problem...sadly it's alive and well in small local communities as well, and even having a private investigator for an unofficial big sister doesn't make one immune to the danger.
As clearly indicated in the description, Isabel Dumel is kidnapped and trafficked, but her friend and role model Mabel Peters is on the case and desperate to find her. The subject matter is obviously grim and Holbrook doesn't shy away from it, but I felt that the more excruciating details were addressed deftly and with respect, including the coping mechanisms that victims of abuse employ.
The character descriptions and plot are done well, although some dialogue and build-up could be streamlined to keep the story moving into the main crisis; some parts were a bit stilted, telling instead of showing. Once the book hits its stride, however, the pace moved along smoothly and made for a solid read. I especially enjoyed Mabel's character and look forward to the possibility of another book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
As clearly indicated in the description, Isabel Dumel is kidnapped and trafficked, but her friend and role model Mabel Peters is on the case and desperate to find her. The subject matter is obviously grim and Holbrook doesn't shy away from it, but I felt that the more excruciating details were addressed deftly and with respect, including the coping mechanisms that victims of abuse employ.
The character descriptions and plot are done well, although some dialogue and build-up could be streamlined to keep the story moving into the main crisis; some parts were a bit stilted, telling instead of showing. Once the book hits its stride, however, the pace moved along smoothly and made for a solid read. I especially enjoyed Mabel's character and look forward to the possibility of another book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2020
In Plain Sight is about a girl named Isabel. She is like most teenagers; emotional, strong willed, rebellious, and adventurous. Yet, her life couldn't be more different. Her father is a serial killer serving life in prison and her mother passed away when she was a little younger. Just when Isabel finally started adjusting to her "new normal," she is kidnapped and forced into a world of exploitation.
This book is told from multiple points of view, with one of them being Isabel. I did get confused at first because there are quite a few characters and I kept getting their relationships mixed up. When I finally caught on, it helped with the flow of the book. The story kept me intrigued and I enjoyed the author's crisp writing style. This is definitely a dark, hard topic to read about but I do recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the gifted e-copy.
This book is told from multiple points of view, with one of them being Isabel. I did get confused at first because there are quite a few characters and I kept getting their relationships mixed up. When I finally caught on, it helped with the flow of the book. The story kept me intrigued and I enjoyed the author's crisp writing style. This is definitely a dark, hard topic to read about but I do recommend it.
Thank you to the author for the gifted e-copy.
April 15, 2020
Laurie Holbrook offers a powerful and well written crime thriller that is not for the faint of heart. Holbrook’s writing is brutal and heart wrenching and offers a rendition of the realities that surround trafficking and sexual abuse. While it is a work of fiction and is appreciated as such, it was hard to look past the level of catastrophe happening to such a small cast of characters. The plot seemed overshadowed by the ongoing “shock and awe” factors held in the forefront. The book had promise and Holbrook created a great cast of characters but ultimately it felt weighed down. 3 stars
Thank you to author Laurie Holbrook for the ARC, which was read and reviewed voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to author Laurie Holbrook for the ARC, which was read and reviewed voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 15, 2020
Laurie Holbrook nailed it again with In Plain Sight, the second book in the Mabel Peter’s series. This psychological thriller is sure to keep you in full suspense and touches on one of the most prevalent issues today, human trafficking. One thing I love about Laurie’s writing is that there are no boundaries so this book is not for the faint of heart. Her character development is unparalleled and flowed seamlessly from Still Out There to In Plain Sight. Oh, and did I mention Mabel is still a BADASS!
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Seriously loved. Totally recommend. Definitely a page turner!
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Seriously loved. Totally recommend. Definitely a page turner!
April 19, 2020
A powerful choice of theme, written with a style that makes you want to keep turning the page. I loved how honestly Laurie handled her subject matter. Through her characters, you get a glimpse of how dreary things really are in the blood curdling underworld of child trafficking. Over time, you forget you're reading a book and you find yourself rooting for the characters with great passion.
April 13, 2020
Engaging & intense.
Full review up on blog: http://alwayswithabook.blogspot.com/2...
Full review up on blog: http://alwayswithabook.blogspot.com/2...
April 14, 2020
This is the second book in the series by Laurie Holbrook.
I recommend reading Laurie’s first book, Still Out There, before reading this one as the characters are carried over into the second book and boy is there some baggage to understand.
Mabel Peters is still the main character, although there are alternating points of view (my favorite) so each character is really fleshed out. In this book Mabel is dedicated to finding missing girls. However, things get a little too close to home when someone close to her disappears.
This is a very fast paced and riveting book with an ending I didn’t see coming. The author, Laurie, really shines a light on the human trafficking issue going on in the U.S.
Thank you to the author for my free e-ARC of the book.
I recommend reading Laurie’s first book, Still Out There, before reading this one as the characters are carried over into the second book and boy is there some baggage to understand.
Mabel Peters is still the main character, although there are alternating points of view (my favorite) so each character is really fleshed out. In this book Mabel is dedicated to finding missing girls. However, things get a little too close to home when someone close to her disappears.
This is a very fast paced and riveting book with an ending I didn’t see coming. The author, Laurie, really shines a light on the human trafficking issue going on in the U.S.
Thank you to the author for my free e-ARC of the book.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews