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Allegation
An evil monster exposed?
Or an innocent father condemned?
A scandal will shake a small community to its very foundations.
Sandbeach, South Wales.
Two women have come forward to make historical sexual allegations against a pillar of the local community, Matthew Cooper.
The case lands on the desk of inexperienced Social Worker, Kit Goddard, who must remove Cooper from his home and family while the investigation is carried out. Although intrepid and intuitive, she is ill-prepared for such a high-profile case.
Kit finds herself navigating a local minefield of connections and class, reputations and rumour. Unsure whether her interference is a heroic intervention or a hurtful intrusion, she knows one thing: it will have an impact. The question is whether this impact will be to expose a lie, or destroy an innocent life...
Or an innocent father condemned?
A scandal will shake a small community to its very foundations.
Sandbeach, South Wales.
Two women have come forward to make historical sexual allegations against a pillar of the local community, Matthew Cooper.
The case lands on the desk of inexperienced Social Worker, Kit Goddard, who must remove Cooper from his home and family while the investigation is carried out. Although intrepid and intuitive, she is ill-prepared for such a high-profile case.
Kit finds herself navigating a local minefield of connections and class, reputations and rumour. Unsure whether her interference is a heroic intervention or a hurtful intrusion, she knows one thing: it will have an impact. The question is whether this impact will be to expose a lie, or destroy an innocent life...
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
21 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 21, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Newly qualified social worker Kit is thrown in at the deep end when she is given the case of an alleged historic child sexual assault by a well-liked local businessman who has powerful friends, and a father with high-up connections.
Kit feels out of her depth and nauseous at dealing with the family, but she knows it doesn’t matter how powerful he is, or how much money he has, she is there to do her job and that is to see to the safety of his children and complete an assessment.
With the police dealing with the criminal investigation, Kit is left trying to sort through the lives of the family. Is Matthew Cooper really guilty or is she there delving into an innocent family’s life that she could very easily destroy?
The first thing you notice about the book is how much the author knows the world she has created, unsurprisingly she is a former social worker. Her knowledge radiates from the pages and helps to make the plot feel plausible and realistic.
Kit is a fabulous character. She is driven by wanting to help children, especially as she was once a child known to social services, had a brutal upbringing with her mother, and then was brought up by a foster family. She doesn’t come across as your average social worker, with her informal clothes and piercing. Something which doesn’t bode well with the Cooper family, who seem to think that her look means she is no good at her job.
The storyline is very character-driven and whilst I thought that Matthew Cooper was a bit of a prat, I found it hard to be convinced 100% of his guilt or innocence, the author certainly holds the cards close to her chest and it wasn’t until near the end that all the pieces of the puzzle come together.
Whilst I was totally addicted to the ongoing case, the drip-fed information about Kit’s childhood and upbringing and her sibling’s lives didn’t quite grab me as much. However, the book was certainly different from anything I’ve read before and it was a nice start to a new series.
Newly qualified social worker Kit is thrown in at the deep end when she is given the case of an alleged historic child sexual assault by a well-liked local businessman who has powerful friends, and a father with high-up connections.
Kit feels out of her depth and nauseous at dealing with the family, but she knows it doesn’t matter how powerful he is, or how much money he has, she is there to do her job and that is to see to the safety of his children and complete an assessment.
With the police dealing with the criminal investigation, Kit is left trying to sort through the lives of the family. Is Matthew Cooper really guilty or is she there delving into an innocent family’s life that she could very easily destroy?
The first thing you notice about the book is how much the author knows the world she has created, unsurprisingly she is a former social worker. Her knowledge radiates from the pages and helps to make the plot feel plausible and realistic.
Kit is a fabulous character. She is driven by wanting to help children, especially as she was once a child known to social services, had a brutal upbringing with her mother, and then was brought up by a foster family. She doesn’t come across as your average social worker, with her informal clothes and piercing. Something which doesn’t bode well with the Cooper family, who seem to think that her look means she is no good at her job.
The storyline is very character-driven and whilst I thought that Matthew Cooper was a bit of a prat, I found it hard to be convinced 100% of his guilt or innocence, the author certainly holds the cards close to her chest and it wasn’t until near the end that all the pieces of the puzzle come together.
Whilst I was totally addicted to the ongoing case, the drip-fed information about Kit’s childhood and upbringing and her sibling’s lives didn’t quite grab me as much. However, the book was certainly different from anything I’ve read before and it was a nice start to a new series.
April 30, 2020
A local businessman, Matt Cooper has been accused of the historical a use of two girls. Local, social worker, Kit begins her investigation of the family. She has to ascertain the risk Coopers three children. Annie Cooper (Matt's wife) is hostile to to Kit and she defends her husband, adamant that the allegations are false. Will Kit's inexperience cloud her judgement or end up,being influenced by people wanting to protect one of their own.
Kit knew the system inside out as she had grown up in Foster care. As the story unfolds we learn more of Kit's background. The story is sensitively written. The author has done their research into the subject matter. This is a gripping and thought provoking page turner. It's well written and covers all episodes of the case. I really enjoyed this story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author R. G. Adams for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Kit knew the system inside out as she had grown up in Foster care. As the story unfolds we learn more of Kit's background. The story is sensitively written. The author has done their research into the subject matter. This is a gripping and thought provoking page turner. It's well written and covers all episodes of the case. I really enjoyed this story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author R. G. Adams for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2023
I finished this book two days ago but could not get on to this site to post, read or comment hope this goes through
*Impressions*
This is a debut novel and the author was a former social worker. Lots of writers advising upcoming writers say a great start would be to write about what you know. Well this is the result. This story is based in Wales where the author is from.
A seemingly upstanding businessman man Matthew Cooper looks everything like all that is good in the world. He has 3 children and his first born daughter is severely disabled. She is also non verbal. He appears to be caring how he looks after his family. His wife is not to be messed with and she is not the type to roll over quietly. They have a social worker in place that support the family
This all changes when there is an allegation of historical sex offences by two women. This being the case means he must be removed from the family.
The task falls to a young social worker Kit Goddard who not only has to ensure this happens but she needs to get to the route of the problem. She is inexperienced but she will fight tooth and nail in the interest of the children.
We then go onto see what Kit has to go through and the many hoops and hurdles she has to cross. She faces suspension due to complaints from the wife who wants her off the case. With the allegations there is a class divide, the women from a poorer background, the accused is rolling in money.
When one of the women decide to drop the case and Kit confronts her, Kit charges on to find answers. Kit being young and inexperienced means that some things go in her favour, but she lacks what sometimes stares her in the face which could come back to haunt her.
She now has the unenviable task to see whether Matthew Cooper is a threat or is he someone entirely different - the answers suddenly stare her in the face….
A great debut from R. G. Adams
*Impressions*
This is a debut novel and the author was a former social worker. Lots of writers advising upcoming writers say a great start would be to write about what you know. Well this is the result. This story is based in Wales where the author is from.
A seemingly upstanding businessman man Matthew Cooper looks everything like all that is good in the world. He has 3 children and his first born daughter is severely disabled. She is also non verbal. He appears to be caring how he looks after his family. His wife is not to be messed with and she is not the type to roll over quietly. They have a social worker in place that support the family
This all changes when there is an allegation of historical sex offences by two women. This being the case means he must be removed from the family.
The task falls to a young social worker Kit Goddard who not only has to ensure this happens but she needs to get to the route of the problem. She is inexperienced but she will fight tooth and nail in the interest of the children.
We then go onto see what Kit has to go through and the many hoops and hurdles she has to cross. She faces suspension due to complaints from the wife who wants her off the case. With the allegations there is a class divide, the women from a poorer background, the accused is rolling in money.
When one of the women decide to drop the case and Kit confronts her, Kit charges on to find answers. Kit being young and inexperienced means that some things go in her favour, but she lacks what sometimes stares her in the face which could come back to haunt her.
She now has the unenviable task to see whether Matthew Cooper is a threat or is he someone entirely different - the answers suddenly stare her in the face….
A great debut from R. G. Adams
June 15, 2020
Allegation is the first in a new crime procedural series featuring formidable young Welsh social worker, Kit Goddard, and is the author's debut novel. When historical sexual abuse allegations regarding two young girls are made against affluent, influential and well-connected local businessman Matt Cooper, it is up to rookie social worker Kit Goddard to investigate and reveal if there's any truth to them. Regardless of their social standing Kit must ascertain whether the three Cooper children are at any risk given the nature of the allegations against their father. What makes this interesting is Kit knows more than most the importance of making the right decision in these circumstances as she is a product of the care system herself and understands the far-reaching implications of deciding one thing over another. Annie Cooper, Matt’s significant other, is extremely hostile towards Kit and the entire investigation swearing her husband has not carried out any such crimes.
This is a riveting and topical thriller with a plot that is both thought-provoking and exciting. It is crafted in such a way that you instantly feel its authenticity oozing from the pages, and as the author herself has thirty years experience as a social worker it is easy to tell that this has informed her work and is all the more compelling due to this. Kit is an intriguing character and one I love already. The thought of learning more about her and seeing her evolve in future instalments has me really excited. She is resourceful, humble and a hard worker with a conscience making her very conscientious when it comes to making do or die decisions in tough circumstances. It is sensitively written and shows the battle of truth v power, wealth and influence. This ripped from the headlines story is a potent mix of entertaining thriller and intense and important social commentary with an emotional side to it all too. A real multifaceted page-turner. Many thanks to riverrun for an ARC.
This is a riveting and topical thriller with a plot that is both thought-provoking and exciting. It is crafted in such a way that you instantly feel its authenticity oozing from the pages, and as the author herself has thirty years experience as a social worker it is easy to tell that this has informed her work and is all the more compelling due to this. Kit is an intriguing character and one I love already. The thought of learning more about her and seeing her evolve in future instalments has me really excited. She is resourceful, humble and a hard worker with a conscience making her very conscientious when it comes to making do or die decisions in tough circumstances. It is sensitively written and shows the battle of truth v power, wealth and influence. This ripped from the headlines story is a potent mix of entertaining thriller and intense and important social commentary with an emotional side to it all too. A real multifaceted page-turner. Many thanks to riverrun for an ARC.
March 10, 2020
I thought Allegation was a very good read indeed- with a central premise ripped straight from the headlines this one focuses on social worker Kit, who is thrown into the middle of a controversial case, where truth faces down power in a battle for the facts.
Kit is engaging and realistically flawed, her determination to treat this case as she would any other despite the people involved makes you root for her every step of the way. The author manages to get the realities and lack of resources in under the radar but with emotionally resonant authenticity, the story speaks to trust and judgment, the subject matter is haunting yet absolutely important to consider.
Overall this was terrific. It manages to be a highly entertaining page turner, an intuitive social commentary and an emotive thought provoking story all in one go.
Recommended.
Kit is engaging and realistically flawed, her determination to treat this case as she would any other despite the people involved makes you root for her every step of the way. The author manages to get the realities and lack of resources in under the radar but with emotionally resonant authenticity, the story speaks to trust and judgment, the subject matter is haunting yet absolutely important to consider.
Overall this was terrific. It manages to be a highly entertaining page turner, an intuitive social commentary and an emotive thought provoking story all in one go.
Recommended.
April 6, 2021
A young social worker, Kit Goddard, is assigned a high profile investigation into the family of a well-connected and respected man in Sandbeach, South Wales. The case involves historical sexual allegations against Matt Cooper -- in fact the incidents were said to have happened over 17 years ago. Now, Matt is married to Annie and they have 3 children -- one of whom is a several disabled daughter. Kit is meant to decide if the children need protection or further action should it be found that evidence will take Matt to trial. Matt has been removed from the home as the interested parties perform due diligence but Kit is convinced that more is going on than the current accusations. Is Matt guilty or has an innocent man been unfairly targeted? NO SPOILERS.
The narrative was interesting and the protagonist engaging, but this story seemed to move way too slowly so it took me a long time to read. The other issue was that the plot was complicated by Kit's baggage and events that happened to her family many years prior. Having a social worker as a main character was a different tack and definitely readers will have an opinion about their role and whether the power they have to disrupt a family can be seen as overstepping or if they often don't do enough to provide the necessary protection. We all read the news so know that mistakes can be made and are often blamed on budgets and staffing and the sheer volume of incidents that require some sort of intervention. So, in the end, this novel was not about Matt Cooper per se, but was more a vignette of how a social worker interacts and works with a particular situation and carries the day through her persistence.
Some reviewers have indicated that this will be a series and I don't know if I'll continue or not. Also, am curious to find out if this author's name is a pseudonym. Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus Books riverrun for this e-book ARC to read and review.
The narrative was interesting and the protagonist engaging, but this story seemed to move way too slowly so it took me a long time to read. The other issue was that the plot was complicated by Kit's baggage and events that happened to her family many years prior. Having a social worker as a main character was a different tack and definitely readers will have an opinion about their role and whether the power they have to disrupt a family can be seen as overstepping or if they often don't do enough to provide the necessary protection. We all read the news so know that mistakes can be made and are often blamed on budgets and staffing and the sheer volume of incidents that require some sort of intervention. So, in the end, this novel was not about Matt Cooper per se, but was more a vignette of how a social worker interacts and works with a particular situation and carries the day through her persistence.
Some reviewers have indicated that this will be a series and I don't know if I'll continue or not. Also, am curious to find out if this author's name is a pseudonym. Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus Books riverrun for this e-book ARC to read and review.
March 6, 2020
I received an advanced copy from Netgalley in return for an honest review on my blog and Netgalley.
My opinion on this book is a bit split, as I felt the storyline itself was meh I felt the book struggled to really get going.
There were too many aspects of the story and whilst they eventually all came together, the ending did feel rushed and shoved together. As if the author had realised they'd built up all these strands of the book and had to figure out a way to tie them up. It just really frustrated me as I felt it made no sense.
On the whole, I really liked Kit's character, I felt she had something about her and she was definitely the type to do what was right even that meant getting herself into trouble, especially when it came to her family.
I did feel though that the author didn't really develop the other characters as much, which meant we didn't get that same connection with them. Disappointing really as some of them would have made really good additions to the book!
I also found the flashbacks to Kit's life didn't add value to the book, and where the author put these in, there could have been more interaction with the Cooper family who the main storyline centres around.
On the whole, I struggled with this book to see the storyline and to really feel like it went anywhere. It was OK but I won't rush to read it again.
My opinion on this book is a bit split, as I felt the storyline itself was meh I felt the book struggled to really get going.
There were too many aspects of the story and whilst they eventually all came together, the ending did feel rushed and shoved together. As if the author had realised they'd built up all these strands of the book and had to figure out a way to tie them up. It just really frustrated me as I felt it made no sense.
On the whole, I really liked Kit's character, I felt she had something about her and she was definitely the type to do what was right even that meant getting herself into trouble, especially when it came to her family.
I did feel though that the author didn't really develop the other characters as much, which meant we didn't get that same connection with them. Disappointing really as some of them would have made really good additions to the book!
I also found the flashbacks to Kit's life didn't add value to the book, and where the author put these in, there could have been more interaction with the Cooper family who the main storyline centres around.
On the whole, I struggled with this book to see the storyline and to really feel like it went anywhere. It was OK but I won't rush to read it again.
February 18, 2021
This is the start of a new series featuring social worker Kit Goddard, and I honestly can't wait to read more.
I found this really interesting, following a social worker as the main protagonist. Not something I've read before. Reading from the point of view from a case worker, seeing how everything fits together and the work put in to each and every case. Very insightful. It was clear to see the author had had years of experience working in this sector.
Kit was a brilliant character, with a troubled past herself it's clear to see that she wants to make lives better for those in need. She's determined to make the right decisions but terrified of making a mistake. She's tough but relatable, likable and you find yourself rooting for her.
I especially liked the second storyline involving Kit's brother. I think this gave you more insight to her character and the family's unsettled background.
I was also impressed with how the case progressed but lacked any detailed graphic descriptions considering it was a sexual assault case. One of the characters is a severely disabled child and the author communicated her situation and behaviour sensitively but realistically; I learnt quite a bit more about cerebal palsy.
An engrossing and addictive read which I devoured quickly. I found this book not only to be a fabulous read but informative and thought provoking too.
I can't wait to see where Kit takes us next.
I found this really interesting, following a social worker as the main protagonist. Not something I've read before. Reading from the point of view from a case worker, seeing how everything fits together and the work put in to each and every case. Very insightful. It was clear to see the author had had years of experience working in this sector.
Kit was a brilliant character, with a troubled past herself it's clear to see that she wants to make lives better for those in need. She's determined to make the right decisions but terrified of making a mistake. She's tough but relatable, likable and you find yourself rooting for her.
I especially liked the second storyline involving Kit's brother. I think this gave you more insight to her character and the family's unsettled background.
I was also impressed with how the case progressed but lacked any detailed graphic descriptions considering it was a sexual assault case. One of the characters is a severely disabled child and the author communicated her situation and behaviour sensitively but realistically; I learnt quite a bit more about cerebal palsy.
An engrossing and addictive read which I devoured quickly. I found this book not only to be a fabulous read but informative and thought provoking too.
I can't wait to see where Kit takes us next.
June 21, 2022
Allegation by R G Adams is the start of a new series following Welsh social worker Kit Goddard! And if this gripping debut is anything to go buy, this is going to be a series to look out for!
I don't think I've ever read a book with a social worker being the main character, and followed a case from that point of view, so I found this one so interesting!
And Kit as the main character was brilliant. With a troubled past I thought there was plenty of depth to her and she was quite likable! She's tough and her heart is in the right place, even if she does lack confidence in her ability to lead this case.
The case itself follows a middle class family when the father is accused of historical sexual assault. One of his three children is severely disabled and unable to communicate and I thought this added a really interesting aspect to the story. I also liked how the book didn't really go into any graphic details considering it was all about sexual assault. It shows a book can be gripping and interesting without going into all the gory details.
There is also a separate storyline running alongside this featuring Kit's brother. I liked this and thought it added more to Kit as a character.
I flew through this one. It's an addictive read along with being quite thought provoking. I'm really looking forward to meeting Kit again in future books!
Have you read any books featuring social workers? I'd love some recommendations!
I don't think I've ever read a book with a social worker being the main character, and followed a case from that point of view, so I found this one so interesting!
And Kit as the main character was brilliant. With a troubled past I thought there was plenty of depth to her and she was quite likable! She's tough and her heart is in the right place, even if she does lack confidence in her ability to lead this case.
The case itself follows a middle class family when the father is accused of historical sexual assault. One of his three children is severely disabled and unable to communicate and I thought this added a really interesting aspect to the story. I also liked how the book didn't really go into any graphic details considering it was all about sexual assault. It shows a book can be gripping and interesting without going into all the gory details.
There is also a separate storyline running alongside this featuring Kit's brother. I liked this and thought it added more to Kit as a character.
I flew through this one. It's an addictive read along with being quite thought provoking. I'm really looking forward to meeting Kit again in future books!
Have you read any books featuring social workers? I'd love some recommendations!
July 2, 2021
What a fantastic first novel & from an ex social worker who certainly knows her stuff.
This was my second book of July & it was so compelling, I didn't put it down until I'd finished.
Very well written, thought provoking & I'm on the understanding that we'll be reading more about Kit Goddard, as from what I gather this is the first in an exciting new series!
Newly qualified & inexperienced social worker Kit has been handed an historical child sexual assault case as her first big job.
Feeling extremely out of her depth & not prepared for such a big case, Kit knows that whether her interference is heroic intervention or intrusion, it will have an impact!
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 4 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
This was my second book of July & it was so compelling, I didn't put it down until I'd finished.
Very well written, thought provoking & I'm on the understanding that we'll be reading more about Kit Goddard, as from what I gather this is the first in an exciting new series!
Newly qualified & inexperienced social worker Kit has been handed an historical child sexual assault case as her first big job.
Feeling extremely out of her depth & not prepared for such a big case, Kit knows that whether her interference is heroic intervention or intrusion, it will have an impact!
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 4 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
February 14, 2021
Time taken to read - < 1 day
Pages - 320
Publisher - Riverrun
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
An evil monster exposed?
Or an innocent father condemned?
A scandal will shake a small community to its very foundations.
Sandbeach, South Wales.
Two women have come forward to make historical sexual allegations against a pillar of the local community, Matthew Cooper.
The case lands on the desk of inexperienced Social Worker, Kit Goddard, who must remove Cooper from his home and family while the investigation is carried out. Although intrepid and intuitive, she is ill-prepared for such a high-profile case.
Kit finds herself navigating a local minefield of connections and class, reputations and rumour. Unsure whether her interference is a heroic intervention or a hurtful intrusion, she knows one thing: it will have an impact. The question is whether this impact will be to expose a lie, or destroy an innocent life...
My Review
Kit Goddard is a social worker who finds herself landed with her first big/challenging case, still relatively new, it is a big ask. Throw into the mix it is historic allegations against one of the pillars of the community, money, charm, well connected, father of three - married Matt Cooper has everything. It is Kit's job to talk to the family, the children, wife and assess if there is a risk, is it a genuine accusation or is someone after money and is Kit about to ruin lives over malicious claims?
What a fantastic debut, Kit isn't just an inexperienced new social worker thrown in at the deep end, she comes with her own emotional baggage having been a kid known to the services herself. We follow her through many challenges just to do her job, I actually was howling at one interaction with one of her colleagues, we all know someone like her. The team is a very mixed bunch and I enjoyed the dynamics of the team. I found the whole process on the investigation really interesting, how she interacted with the kids and the authentic feel with the obstructiveness of the family.
Threats, anger, sex abuse claims against minors, small town reaction to such a shocking allegation against "one of their own" - even how some of the internal issues/obstacles when she is just trying to do her job. As well as that we get to see the very human side of Kit as more of her own past and vulnerability is exposed. I liked her, she has spunk and as I said one interaction with a colleague was absolute gold *air punch* - I hope this is a long series, I very much look forward to the next one. An engaging read, pulled in quickly and as the nature of the book is allegations of a sexual nature - it does feature/investigate although nothing graphic or gratuitous, 4.5/5 for me this time.
Pages - 320
Publisher - Riverrun
Source - Review copy
Blurb from Goodreads
An evil monster exposed?
Or an innocent father condemned?
A scandal will shake a small community to its very foundations.
Sandbeach, South Wales.
Two women have come forward to make historical sexual allegations against a pillar of the local community, Matthew Cooper.
The case lands on the desk of inexperienced Social Worker, Kit Goddard, who must remove Cooper from his home and family while the investigation is carried out. Although intrepid and intuitive, she is ill-prepared for such a high-profile case.
Kit finds herself navigating a local minefield of connections and class, reputations and rumour. Unsure whether her interference is a heroic intervention or a hurtful intrusion, she knows one thing: it will have an impact. The question is whether this impact will be to expose a lie, or destroy an innocent life...
My Review
Kit Goddard is a social worker who finds herself landed with her first big/challenging case, still relatively new, it is a big ask. Throw into the mix it is historic allegations against one of the pillars of the community, money, charm, well connected, father of three - married Matt Cooper has everything. It is Kit's job to talk to the family, the children, wife and assess if there is a risk, is it a genuine accusation or is someone after money and is Kit about to ruin lives over malicious claims?
What a fantastic debut, Kit isn't just an inexperienced new social worker thrown in at the deep end, she comes with her own emotional baggage having been a kid known to the services herself. We follow her through many challenges just to do her job, I actually was howling at one interaction with one of her colleagues, we all know someone like her. The team is a very mixed bunch and I enjoyed the dynamics of the team. I found the whole process on the investigation really interesting, how she interacted with the kids and the authentic feel with the obstructiveness of the family.
Threats, anger, sex abuse claims against minors, small town reaction to such a shocking allegation against "one of their own" - even how some of the internal issues/obstacles when she is just trying to do her job. As well as that we get to see the very human side of Kit as more of her own past and vulnerability is exposed. I liked her, she has spunk and as I said one interaction with a colleague was absolute gold *air punch* - I hope this is a long series, I very much look forward to the next one. An engaging read, pulled in quickly and as the nature of the book is allegations of a sexual nature - it does feature/investigate although nothing graphic or gratuitous, 4.5/5 for me this time.
May 30, 2021
A man who was the pillar of the society had been accused of child abuse, and it was upto social worker Kit to decide of his 3 children were safe in their home while cops were investigating the charges.
This was a new author and a new premise. I generally avoided books with child abuse. But there was nothing graphic in this, just an investigation to check the veracity.
The book was slightly slow, but that was because it was extremely character driven where the truth was revealed only in the last few pages. I liked how the author provided tiny clues as bread crumbs. But sadly enough, I couldn’t begin to piece them together.
With such a sensitive topic, I felt the author did complete justice to the issue as well as build up suspense later down the pages. Power play seemed authentic, the rich did like to have their way. Kit was wonderful in her portrayal of a social worker who was stepping into a minefield of lies and facts. I enjoyed how she led the story to a finish.
Quite a different read from the norm, the story captured me where the balance of truth was kept in check by power and money. But unlike realities of life, truth did shine through in this book. I was happy to see that.
This was a new author and a new premise. I generally avoided books with child abuse. But there was nothing graphic in this, just an investigation to check the veracity.
The book was slightly slow, but that was because it was extremely character driven where the truth was revealed only in the last few pages. I liked how the author provided tiny clues as bread crumbs. But sadly enough, I couldn’t begin to piece them together.
With such a sensitive topic, I felt the author did complete justice to the issue as well as build up suspense later down the pages. Power play seemed authentic, the rich did like to have their way. Kit was wonderful in her portrayal of a social worker who was stepping into a minefield of lies and facts. I enjoyed how she led the story to a finish.
Quite a different read from the norm, the story captured me where the balance of truth was kept in check by power and money. But unlike realities of life, truth did shine through in this book. I was happy to see that.
May 11, 2023
I loved how there was also another crime linked to the storyline which connects to the main one. The hints throughout were really clever, of the little girl signalling for help, that you don’t notice until it’s mentioned at the end!
I did think some parts of the main characters background was irrelevant so I skimmed over these parts - the info about the case kept me hooked. Hence 3 stars
As this book follows a case for a social worker, it has given me an insight into what I could experience going down the criminology route - quite a dark one :/
I did think some parts of the main characters background was irrelevant so I skimmed over these parts - the info about the case kept me hooked. Hence 3 stars
As this book follows a case for a social worker, it has given me an insight into what I could experience going down the criminology route - quite a dark one :/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2023
This is a debut novel which is the start of a series focusing on social worker Kit Goddard. She is given a case of historical sexual abuse claims against a middle class man from a very affluent family. With Kits own childhood having heavy involvement from the care system she has to use her own experience with what she’s been taught to tie this case up.
This is a very British book centring on the UK care system with likeable characters and conflicting opinions of people who work in this sector,
This is a very British book centring on the UK care system with likeable characters and conflicting opinions of people who work in this sector,
April 26, 2023
I knew i would enjoy this book ,although it was a slow burner for me within a couple of chapters I was hooked ,couldn't put it down then. Kit is a newly qualified social worker she gets handed the case of Matt Cooper who 2 women have issued historic abuse by him. Kit herself grew up in care along with her siblings. Would recommend this book.
April 7, 2021
Easy read, couldn’t put it down and was so pleased the social worker kept digging and didn’t give up. A story close to my heart.
April 24, 2022
Omg what a emotionally real life book!!!
This book really got me and I found the author wrote about the sexual abuse in an excellent way.
I think everyone needs to read this book to understand some things that may help people. Sometimes when I was reading this I felt like I was reading a real story about someone’s life. Was purely brilliant I loved it even though times I found myself getting upset about what was happening.
This book really got me and I found the author wrote about the sexual abuse in an excellent way.
I think everyone needs to read this book to understand some things that may help people. Sometimes when I was reading this I felt like I was reading a real story about someone’s life. Was purely brilliant I loved it even though times I found myself getting upset about what was happening.
April 30, 2020
Wow, this is one of those books that’s so fitting with what’s going on in our world today! I thought it was well written, relevant, and very chilling! I think that the character development was excellent and the subject while not new very important! I found lots of thrills, chills, shocks, and turmoil while reading this book! If you enjoy books that really coincide with today’s headlines, this is definitely your book!
Will make sure I buzz it up on the different platforms and use low Amazon reviewer number on release date!
Will make sure I buzz it up on the different platforms and use low Amazon reviewer number on release date!
August 8, 2020
While not altogether dull, I didn't become fully engaged in the story until near the end.
February 5, 2023
"She was sitting at the kitchen table, in the kitchen."
December 6, 2021
Kit Goddard knows what it is like to be a child in care. Together with her four siblings, she spent most of her childhood in and out of care herself. However, unlike the others, she was lucky enough to finally be fostered with a loving couple, whose support and encouragement eventually influenced her decision to become a social worker.
Although good at her job, Kit has never handled any high-risk cases before. So, when she is asked to investigate a respected and well-connected member of the community – accused by two women of abusing them when they were thirteen – she immediately feels out of her depth. However, with no experienced person available to take the case, Kit is reluctantly obliged to accept the assignment.
Accompanied by DS Dai Davies from the Public Protection Unit and DS Beth Mackay from CID, Kit sets off to visit the Cooper family. Unfortunately, it is clear from the outset that Matt Cooper is not only arrogant, but also believes that his status and connections render him untouchable. His wife, Annie, is no better. Openly aggressive and rude, her initial reaction is to dismiss them all from her house – especially Kit, whose authority she resents, considering her to be socially her inferior. Fortunately, Kit is made of sterner stuff and holds her ground.
Given the nature of the alleged crime, Kit is primarily concerned with the safety of the Coopers’ three children and insists on interviewing them. By using drawing as a communication technique, she soon establishes a bond with the children, including the eldest daughter who is disabled and unable to speak. It is then, by patient persistence, that a picture of what might have happened eventually begins to emerge. However, suspecting is not the same as proving, and Kit soon finds herself having to not only protect the children’s safety, but also that of her career.
‘Allegation’ is a well-written, gripping and sensitive story about one woman’s determination to expose possible child abuse – despite opposition from an influential family and her own superiors, who refuse to believe such a pillar of society could do such a thing. Fortunately, Kit’s dogged focus and refusal to be intimidated eventually reveals the shocking truth.
Supported by a strong cast of characters, it is impossible not to feel empathy for Kit, as she struggles to uncover the truth against a backdrop of prejudice. Unfortunately, the blindness to wrongdoing that wealth and power can command, is sadly not an unusual one. Add to this Kit’s tragic and complex personal life, and the result is an engaging story that pulls you in from the very start and maintains your engagement to the very end.
Although good at her job, Kit has never handled any high-risk cases before. So, when she is asked to investigate a respected and well-connected member of the community – accused by two women of abusing them when they were thirteen – she immediately feels out of her depth. However, with no experienced person available to take the case, Kit is reluctantly obliged to accept the assignment.
Accompanied by DS Dai Davies from the Public Protection Unit and DS Beth Mackay from CID, Kit sets off to visit the Cooper family. Unfortunately, it is clear from the outset that Matt Cooper is not only arrogant, but also believes that his status and connections render him untouchable. His wife, Annie, is no better. Openly aggressive and rude, her initial reaction is to dismiss them all from her house – especially Kit, whose authority she resents, considering her to be socially her inferior. Fortunately, Kit is made of sterner stuff and holds her ground.
Given the nature of the alleged crime, Kit is primarily concerned with the safety of the Coopers’ three children and insists on interviewing them. By using drawing as a communication technique, she soon establishes a bond with the children, including the eldest daughter who is disabled and unable to speak. It is then, by patient persistence, that a picture of what might have happened eventually begins to emerge. However, suspecting is not the same as proving, and Kit soon finds herself having to not only protect the children’s safety, but also that of her career.
‘Allegation’ is a well-written, gripping and sensitive story about one woman’s determination to expose possible child abuse – despite opposition from an influential family and her own superiors, who refuse to believe such a pillar of society could do such a thing. Fortunately, Kit’s dogged focus and refusal to be intimidated eventually reveals the shocking truth.
Supported by a strong cast of characters, it is impossible not to feel empathy for Kit, as she struggles to uncover the truth against a backdrop of prejudice. Unfortunately, the blindness to wrongdoing that wealth and power can command, is sadly not an unusual one. Add to this Kit’s tragic and complex personal life, and the result is an engaging story that pulls you in from the very start and maintains your engagement to the very end.
March 19, 2021
With allegations of child sexual abuse, I was expecting Allegation to be an uncomfortable read but there are so many strands to this amazing story that once I got into it I was completely gripped and couldn't put it down.
The main storyline is the allegation of historical abuse and it's one that really got under my skin. The women haven't come forward before because they feared that nobody would believe them; they are from a rough part of town and Matthew Cooper, the man they are accusing, is well connected so it could appear that they are just after a big pay-off. The "did he/didn't he" question constantly hovered in the back of my mind while Social Worker, Kit Goddard assessed the safety of the Cooper children.
Kit is a fantastic character; although inexperienced, she's very good at her job and will do whatever it takes to make sure the children are safe. I didn't envy her at all, locking horns with the Coopers and constantly being threatened that they were going to make a complaint. The way that Kit kept a clear head and put the children first is really admirable, especially when Kit has so much going on in her personal life. The gradual revealing of Kit's backstory makes her such a well-developed character and this thread added another dimension to the story.
It took me a couple of chapters to get hooked but once I did, I absolutely raced through the book. The chapters are quite long, there are only 16 chapters in the whole 313 page book, but the plot is so gripping that I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. The author has first-hand knowledge of social services and I loved getting a glimpse into the life of a social worker. There are so many minefields to dodge and hoops to jump through that it sounds like a total nightmare and it must be awful to be so unwelcome in a home where they are carrying out an assessment.
Thought-provoking, intriguing and completely compelling, Allegation is a very impressive debut. I'm delighted to find that it's the first book in the Kit Goddard series; I'll certainly be looking out for more.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog blast; this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The main storyline is the allegation of historical abuse and it's one that really got under my skin. The women haven't come forward before because they feared that nobody would believe them; they are from a rough part of town and Matthew Cooper, the man they are accusing, is well connected so it could appear that they are just after a big pay-off. The "did he/didn't he" question constantly hovered in the back of my mind while Social Worker, Kit Goddard assessed the safety of the Cooper children.
Kit is a fantastic character; although inexperienced, she's very good at her job and will do whatever it takes to make sure the children are safe. I didn't envy her at all, locking horns with the Coopers and constantly being threatened that they were going to make a complaint. The way that Kit kept a clear head and put the children first is really admirable, especially when Kit has so much going on in her personal life. The gradual revealing of Kit's backstory makes her such a well-developed character and this thread added another dimension to the story.
It took me a couple of chapters to get hooked but once I did, I absolutely raced through the book. The chapters are quite long, there are only 16 chapters in the whole 313 page book, but the plot is so gripping that I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. The author has first-hand knowledge of social services and I loved getting a glimpse into the life of a social worker. There are so many minefields to dodge and hoops to jump through that it sounds like a total nightmare and it must be awful to be so unwelcome in a home where they are carrying out an assessment.
Thought-provoking, intriguing and completely compelling, Allegation is a very impressive debut. I'm delighted to find that it's the first book in the Kit Goddard series; I'll certainly be looking out for more.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog blast; this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 4, 2020
Received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review:
Rating: 4/5
It was a heavier read concerning sexual crimes on minors and the difficulties involved in clawing through the lies and the reluctant nature of people to believe. It was enlightening to see the detailed procedure involved in cases like these, so kudos to the author for doing her research.
The protagonist is a young social worker, Kit, who had been given a high profile case she’s not sure she’s ready for, for she has the power to break up a seemingly nice family over some historical sexual allegations or put it away and risk the wellbeing of three children. Damned if you do and damned if you don’t example of a situation that left me curious if the seemingly charming man was indeed guilty of the crime he was accused of. Moreover, as the plot progressed I was left trying to figure out if Kit would manage to trust her judgement and carry out the assessment that would not end up being influenced by those above, determined to protect one of their own.
Kit’s inexperience and determination in her quest to discover the truth added to the suspense that turned the novel into a quick page-turner. I was often wondering if her not sticking to procedure at times in order to find what’s really been going on, would be the catalyst for Kit getting thrown off the case and if so, even if guilty of the crime, would the accused walk away free? I enjoyed the twist that I did not see coming and the secondary mystery to the main storyline, albeit a bit rushed towards the end. I liked how the author took things like class and explored the different challenges that can arise with safeguarding children from different backgrounds. Secondary characters were well written and I could easily imagine them in my head, like Vernon, Kit’s mentor who I found quite funny in his tardiness and disregard for the unwritten rules. Overall, it’s a good read that makes you appreciate the social workers out there and I would happily read a sequel should the author decide to ever write one.
Rating: 4/5
It was a heavier read concerning sexual crimes on minors and the difficulties involved in clawing through the lies and the reluctant nature of people to believe. It was enlightening to see the detailed procedure involved in cases like these, so kudos to the author for doing her research.
The protagonist is a young social worker, Kit, who had been given a high profile case she’s not sure she’s ready for, for she has the power to break up a seemingly nice family over some historical sexual allegations or put it away and risk the wellbeing of three children. Damned if you do and damned if you don’t example of a situation that left me curious if the seemingly charming man was indeed guilty of the crime he was accused of. Moreover, as the plot progressed I was left trying to figure out if Kit would manage to trust her judgement and carry out the assessment that would not end up being influenced by those above, determined to protect one of their own.
Kit’s inexperience and determination in her quest to discover the truth added to the suspense that turned the novel into a quick page-turner. I was often wondering if her not sticking to procedure at times in order to find what’s really been going on, would be the catalyst for Kit getting thrown off the case and if so, even if guilty of the crime, would the accused walk away free? I enjoyed the twist that I did not see coming and the secondary mystery to the main storyline, albeit a bit rushed towards the end. I liked how the author took things like class and explored the different challenges that can arise with safeguarding children from different backgrounds. Secondary characters were well written and I could easily imagine them in my head, like Vernon, Kit’s mentor who I found quite funny in his tardiness and disregard for the unwritten rules. Overall, it’s a good read that makes you appreciate the social workers out there and I would happily read a sequel should the author decide to ever write one.
March 22, 2020
Thanks to Quercus Book and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The storyline of 'Allegation' has all too sadly been the stuff of tabloid fodder for a number of years. The term 'historical sexual abuse' has entered the standard vocabulary of the English lexicon, and it is here to stay. There are the famous cases, of course, that are too numerous to name, guilty one and all. The prevalence of abuse is while shocking, even more stomach-churning for the conspiracy of silence that has deferred justice for its victims, or prevented it altogether. The truth has emerged - perhaps all too late. Childhood victims have grown into scarred, traumatised adults, yet still they bravely speak out. This is the cultural and social context of 'Allegation'. Yet, the veracity of claims of abuse are rarely treated as straightforward by the strictures of legal process and the court of public opinion. Like allegations of rape, people condemn in theory, yet inevitably, often wrongly, doubt in practice. There is always the what if? What if the alleged victim is lying? There are undoubtedly those that have been wrongly accused of such heinous crimes, but these are likely to be remembered disproportionately when the scales of justice are to be balanced. In R.G. Adams' sensitive and thoughtful exploration of the exploding phenomenon of historical abuse these psychological contortions are explored with a deftness of touch unrivalled in either fact or fiction. Indeed, it is the intimacy of the setting - a microcosmic study of the dynamics of abuse, distilled in a limited cast of characters, that makes this a powerful, memorable read. 'Allegation' oozes with authenticity and a social realism that exhibits a perceptive understanding of the human condition. Both tautly-plotted and written in crisp prose, this is a wonderful novel full of style and substance. Highly recommended.
The storyline of 'Allegation' has all too sadly been the stuff of tabloid fodder for a number of years. The term 'historical sexual abuse' has entered the standard vocabulary of the English lexicon, and it is here to stay. There are the famous cases, of course, that are too numerous to name, guilty one and all. The prevalence of abuse is while shocking, even more stomach-churning for the conspiracy of silence that has deferred justice for its victims, or prevented it altogether. The truth has emerged - perhaps all too late. Childhood victims have grown into scarred, traumatised adults, yet still they bravely speak out. This is the cultural and social context of 'Allegation'. Yet, the veracity of claims of abuse are rarely treated as straightforward by the strictures of legal process and the court of public opinion. Like allegations of rape, people condemn in theory, yet inevitably, often wrongly, doubt in practice. There is always the what if? What if the alleged victim is lying? There are undoubtedly those that have been wrongly accused of such heinous crimes, but these are likely to be remembered disproportionately when the scales of justice are to be balanced. In R.G. Adams' sensitive and thoughtful exploration of the exploding phenomenon of historical abuse these psychological contortions are explored with a deftness of touch unrivalled in either fact or fiction. Indeed, it is the intimacy of the setting - a microcosmic study of the dynamics of abuse, distilled in a limited cast of characters, that makes this a powerful, memorable read. 'Allegation' oozes with authenticity and a social realism that exhibits a perceptive understanding of the human condition. Both tautly-plotted and written in crisp prose, this is a wonderful novel full of style and substance. Highly recommended.
December 22, 2025
💛💛💛💛💛💛 6/10
Allegation by R G Adams
This was a surprisingly difficult book to score. Despite an occasionally an unpolished feel, it definitely had pull — I found myself wanting to keep reading and finished it in just three days (it is fairly short at 310 pages).
Kit, a newly qualified social worker, carries the scars of a childhood shaped by an alcoholic mother and the failures of the care system. She’s assigned a high-profile case involving a wealthy, influential family where the father has been accused of historic sexual abuse. Although the allegations are later withdrawn, the welfare of his three children still needs assessing. Is this charming, attentive father really hiding something darker? Kit can’t let the case go — even when doing so puts her career at risk.
There are some glaring clues scattered throughout the story, and the dialogue can be clunky at times. Certain conversations — particularly around legal concepts like the standard of proof — feel unnatural, especially between professionals who should already understand them. A more subtle way of feeding this information to the reader would have helped.
That said… I still wanted to know if I was right (I was), and whether I’d spotted all the clues along the way (also yes). So it’s undeniably readable. The characters are generally well-developed and mostly likeable, and the author’s background as a former social worker clearly informs the story — although, admittedly, you’d hope the professionals here would be more competent than many of those portrayed.
Ultimately, while the writing lacks nuance in places — particularly around manipulation and power dynamics — Allegation remains an engaging, quick read that kept me turning the pages, flaws and all.
Allegation by R G Adams
This was a surprisingly difficult book to score. Despite an occasionally an unpolished feel, it definitely had pull — I found myself wanting to keep reading and finished it in just three days (it is fairly short at 310 pages).
Kit, a newly qualified social worker, carries the scars of a childhood shaped by an alcoholic mother and the failures of the care system. She’s assigned a high-profile case involving a wealthy, influential family where the father has been accused of historic sexual abuse. Although the allegations are later withdrawn, the welfare of his three children still needs assessing. Is this charming, attentive father really hiding something darker? Kit can’t let the case go — even when doing so puts her career at risk.
There are some glaring clues scattered throughout the story, and the dialogue can be clunky at times. Certain conversations — particularly around legal concepts like the standard of proof — feel unnatural, especially between professionals who should already understand them. A more subtle way of feeding this information to the reader would have helped.
That said… I still wanted to know if I was right (I was), and whether I’d spotted all the clues along the way (also yes). So it’s undeniably readable. The characters are generally well-developed and mostly likeable, and the author’s background as a former social worker clearly informs the story — although, admittedly, you’d hope the professionals here would be more competent than many of those portrayed.
Ultimately, while the writing lacks nuance in places — particularly around manipulation and power dynamics — Allegation remains an engaging, quick read that kept me turning the pages, flaws and all.
May 19, 2020
Allegation is a gripping thriller about a social worker’s investigation into an historical allegation of child sexual abuse. The allegations are made by two women against Matthew Cooper who is a middle class, upstanding member of the community and a married father of three children. The investigating social worker is a relatively inexperienced one, Kit Goddard.
Kit is led by her manager, Vernon Griffiths, who has allocated her the case even though she does not have any experience in this area, as one of her colleagues has called in sick and the others ‘wouldn’t be able to handle it’...
Kit must investigate the matter in the face of hostility from the family who cannot see why such an historic matter is being looked into and why the word of these women is being given any possible credence at all. Kit must also battle her own demons that come to the surface as she her training as a social worker was not her first encounter with social services.
An excellent book which is a realistic portrayal of such an investigation, which makes this work of fiction a brilliant read. It had me captured from the first to the last page.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kit is led by her manager, Vernon Griffiths, who has allocated her the case even though she does not have any experience in this area, as one of her colleagues has called in sick and the others ‘wouldn’t be able to handle it’...
Kit must investigate the matter in the face of hostility from the family who cannot see why such an historic matter is being looked into and why the word of these women is being given any possible credence at all. Kit must also battle her own demons that come to the surface as she her training as a social worker was not her first encounter with social services.
An excellent book which is a realistic portrayal of such an investigation, which makes this work of fiction a brilliant read. It had me captured from the first to the last page.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2024
I bought this on a whim not entirely sure what to expect, I was left very surprised and thought it was a very good read!
Being Welsh, reading the descriptions of the town and the different use of language really brought it home for me. I had a few places in my head I felt that R G Adams based this off, but I guess we’ll never know.
You can tell R G Adams really knows her stuff as an ex social worker, as the processes and terminology used were so specific and really gave us an insight into that type of work - very interesting.
I liked Kit’s character and I really liked her relationship with Vern. I also liked her brother Tyler, and having his storyline as a separate tangent was quite interesting and one of the things that kept me reading.
Without any spoilers, one of the things that was lacking for me was the ‘build up’ behind the main storyline towards the end. I do feel it was very rushed which was disappointing, but to contrast this I loved how it switched to Kit focusing on protecting Tyler in the end. Quite a bittersweet ending.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and definitely plan on reading the sequel. What’s not to love about a Welsh thriller?!
Being Welsh, reading the descriptions of the town and the different use of language really brought it home for me. I had a few places in my head I felt that R G Adams based this off, but I guess we’ll never know.
You can tell R G Adams really knows her stuff as an ex social worker, as the processes and terminology used were so specific and really gave us an insight into that type of work - very interesting.
I liked Kit’s character and I really liked her relationship with Vern. I also liked her brother Tyler, and having his storyline as a separate tangent was quite interesting and one of the things that kept me reading.
Without any spoilers, one of the things that was lacking for me was the ‘build up’ behind the main storyline towards the end. I do feel it was very rushed which was disappointing, but to contrast this I loved how it switched to Kit focusing on protecting Tyler in the end. Quite a bittersweet ending.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and definitely plan on reading the sequel. What’s not to love about a Welsh thriller?!
January 27, 2021
Allegation addresses a heavy subject which I wouldn't normally opt to read but the author does so in a highly sensitive manner. It felt very well researched however a little Google search told me the author has thirty years experience across all areas of social services, which makes sense.
A thought provoking story following the strong minded protagonist, Kit, who is willing to go out on a limb and put her job as a social worker on the line to ensure children are protected and justice is served.
What stood out the most for me were the characters; they all felt so authentic and believable. I'm not sure whether this is a standalone or to become a series but I would very much like to revisit Kit in future releases. This was the first book I have read by R. G. Adams and I certainly look forward to more.
Thank you to NetGalley & Quercus Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review 📖
A thought provoking story following the strong minded protagonist, Kit, who is willing to go out on a limb and put her job as a social worker on the line to ensure children are protected and justice is served.
What stood out the most for me were the characters; they all felt so authentic and believable. I'm not sure whether this is a standalone or to become a series but I would very much like to revisit Kit in future releases. This was the first book I have read by R. G. Adams and I certainly look forward to more.
Thank you to NetGalley & Quercus Books for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review 📖
March 19, 2021
I was really looking forward to reading this. It starts out very slow, and clunky, filled with unnecessary details about what everyone is wearing and the lead comes across as naive and doesn't do anything to help the stigma attached to young inexperienced social workers with no kids and little resources missing stuff and making mistakes, which was a shame as this was the perfect opportunity to try and attempt to prove otherwise. The slowly burning tension however does increase. Although this is more likely to do with the fact things actually happen in the final third of the book. There was a fight and a heart attack that does nothing to move the story forward and actually comes across as forced, too sudden and irrelevant. Then the end is nicely tied up.
All in all, this is a good debut but the author had clearly written from the perspective of a social worker not an author and by all accounts not a very good one if she's anything like the main character.
All in all, this is a good debut but the author had clearly written from the perspective of a social worker not an author and by all accounts not a very good one if she's anything like the main character.
June 11, 2021
Kit Goddard is a newly qualified social worker, her first big case is that of Matthew Cooper who has been accused of a historical sexual assault against two teenage girls.
Matthew is a well respected business man with connections in the right places.
Whilst the police are dealing with the criminal charges against him, Kit has to ensure his three children, one of whom is severely disabled, are safe.
If this case isn’t handled correctly It could cost Kit her job.
Is Matthew Cooper really guilty or could she be assisting in destroying an innocent mans life?
I liked how this story also gives you a background into Kits life and how she and her four siblings went through the care system due to her mother being neglectful and an alcoholic.
A great first novel. The author used to be a social worker and her knowledge makes this story realistic, sensitive and plausible
Matthew is a well respected business man with connections in the right places.
Whilst the police are dealing with the criminal charges against him, Kit has to ensure his three children, one of whom is severely disabled, are safe.
If this case isn’t handled correctly It could cost Kit her job.
Is Matthew Cooper really guilty or could she be assisting in destroying an innocent mans life?
I liked how this story also gives you a background into Kits life and how she and her four siblings went through the care system due to her mother being neglectful and an alcoholic.
A great first novel. The author used to be a social worker and her knowledge makes this story realistic, sensitive and plausible
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