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One Last Second
What if your child was dying and no one believed you?
I never expected to be doubted, but if I can't make them believe me, what then? I sit here beside her stroking her tiny hands as she sleeps and she looks so perfect. It never crossed my mind that something would be wrong with my sweet girl and I’d be powerless to do anything to help her.
When Madeline's six-year-old daughter Tilly collapses one Sunday night, Madeline’s world is turned upside down. Racing to the hospital, she imagines the worst scenarios in her mind, but when they arrive the doctors say that Tilly is fine.
Madeline’s ex-husband Adam and her best friend Laura think Madeline is being overprotective, that Tilly fainted because of her fussy eating. But Madeline is sure something is seriously wrong with Tilly. She can feel it. And she believes that a mother’s instinct is never wrong.
As Madeline embarks on a desperate journey to have Tilly re-diagnosed, taking her in and out of hospital, Adam and Laura begin to wonder if Tilly would be safer in Adam’s care. Madeline just wants to keep her daughter safe, but the harder she pushes the closer she comes to losing her…
One Last Second is an emotional reminder of just how far a mother will go to protect her child. Readers of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain and Kate Hewitt will never be able to forget this heartbreaking and beautiful story.
I never expected to be doubted, but if I can't make them believe me, what then? I sit here beside her stroking her tiny hands as she sleeps and she looks so perfect. It never crossed my mind that something would be wrong with my sweet girl and I’d be powerless to do anything to help her.
When Madeline's six-year-old daughter Tilly collapses one Sunday night, Madeline’s world is turned upside down. Racing to the hospital, she imagines the worst scenarios in her mind, but when they arrive the doctors say that Tilly is fine.
Madeline’s ex-husband Adam and her best friend Laura think Madeline is being overprotective, that Tilly fainted because of her fussy eating. But Madeline is sure something is seriously wrong with Tilly. She can feel it. And she believes that a mother’s instinct is never wrong.
As Madeline embarks on a desperate journey to have Tilly re-diagnosed, taking her in and out of hospital, Adam and Laura begin to wonder if Tilly would be safer in Adam’s care. Madeline just wants to keep her daughter safe, but the harder she pushes the closer she comes to losing her…
One Last Second is an emotional reminder of just how far a mother will go to protect her child. Readers of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain and Kate Hewitt will never be able to forget this heartbreaking and beautiful story.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2020
875 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
July 16, 2020
5☆ A Powerful, Raw and Thought Provoking Novel that will stay with you for a long time!
One Last Second is a heartbreaking and poignant story about a Mother's fight to prove that her child is sick and she isn't going crazy!
When I read the blurb for One Last Second it instantly drew me in.
Maddie is Mum to 6yr old Tilly. I'm not a mum yet, but I do know that Mums always know best and if your Mum is saying something isn't right they are not normally wrong.
But for Maddie this was the opposite, no one would believe that Tilly was really sick. Tilly's Dad (Maddie'sEx) , her best friend, or the hospital, all think Maddie is over reacting and there isn't anything wrong.
But can Maddie prove that Tilly is really sick before things start to spiral out of control.
Wow did my heart break for Maddie, I can't begin to imagine what it must be like to have a sick child that no one believes is really sick.
I have an invisible illness and it took me alot of fight to get listened to and diagnosed because of my age so in that respective I could relate.
Maddie was so strong and determined to fight for Tilly it just goes to show how much strength and protection mothers have.
The characters are superbly written and relatable.
I really liked that the story was told via past and present as you got to build up a connection with the characters stories.
One Last Second is a heartbreaking, powerful, thought provoking and raw novel that will get under your skin, take you on a whirlwind of emotions, and leave you contemplating long after you close the book.
Thank you to Sarah at BOTBS Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/07...
One Last Second is a heartbreaking and poignant story about a Mother's fight to prove that her child is sick and she isn't going crazy!
When I read the blurb for One Last Second it instantly drew me in.
Maddie is Mum to 6yr old Tilly. I'm not a mum yet, but I do know that Mums always know best and if your Mum is saying something isn't right they are not normally wrong.
But for Maddie this was the opposite, no one would believe that Tilly was really sick. Tilly's Dad (Maddie'sEx) , her best friend, or the hospital, all think Maddie is over reacting and there isn't anything wrong.
But can Maddie prove that Tilly is really sick before things start to spiral out of control.
Wow did my heart break for Maddie, I can't begin to imagine what it must be like to have a sick child that no one believes is really sick.
I have an invisible illness and it took me alot of fight to get listened to and diagnosed because of my age so in that respective I could relate.
Maddie was so strong and determined to fight for Tilly it just goes to show how much strength and protection mothers have.
The characters are superbly written and relatable.
I really liked that the story was told via past and present as you got to build up a connection with the characters stories.
One Last Second is a heartbreaking, powerful, thought provoking and raw novel that will get under your skin, take you on a whirlwind of emotions, and leave you contemplating long after you close the book.
Thank you to Sarah at BOTBS Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :
http://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/07...
July 4, 2020
What would I do if my daughter was sick and no one believed me😩? I mean, honestly I would not stop until I got answers!!!!! That’s what moms do! We have this sixth sense and we must follow it. Of course it doesn’t help that no one believes you - ESPECIALLY your ex and best friend! This book was great and I read it in 1 day. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
March 11, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'One Last Second' by Sam Vickery
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely will not be my last.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing cover and blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 45 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are a nice length so that you can read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
The story is presented from the perspectives of Madeline and her best friend Laura. It has two time lapses of their school years and of the present. It is set in the UK which is always a bonus for me as I live in the UK.
I really loved the fact that the book went from past to present as it helps you discover more of the characters backgrounds it also reveals bits of the puzzle until the whole picture is revealed.
I also loved that the story is told from the perspectives of both Madeline and Laura as it shows you how each of the characters are feeling and what they are doing so you can see more of what is going on and don't miss anything. It also helps in this case for you to see both sides of the picture.
This book is beautifully written and is such a compelling read. The writing was nice and smooth so flowed nicely, especially so considering the past and present links. It was also heart wrenching and kept me turning the pages wanting to know what was going on with Tilly. It shows the love and courage of a mother and how far she would go to protect her child whilst going through every parents worse nightmare.
It is quite hard to mention what I thought of the ending without giving too much away and spoiling it for potential future readers so I will just leave a congratulations to the author and hopefully she will know what I mean by that!! I will also say that the story line is quite unique.
The characters were all well defined with their own flaws, strengths, secrets and backgrounds and I loved reading about the growing relationships of Madeline, Adam and Laura from childhood to adulthood. I also liked the strong characters of the 'background' families.
Overall a very well written, roller-coaster ride of emotions that will give every parent the need to cuddle their children while reading whilst also being on the edge of their seat plus filled with nail biting suspense!! A perfect book for fans of Jodi Picoult, who happens to be one of my favourite author!
Genres covered include domestic fiction, literary fiction and psychological fiction.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of the above genres, Jodi Picoult, suspense and anyone looking for a good read.
Sam Vickery you have made my favourite author list!! Congratulations!
328 pages
Free on Kindle Unlimited or 99p to purchase. I think this is an absolute bargain!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#OneLastSecond #SamVickery #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SamVickery @Bookouture @Bookworm1986
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Review for 'One Last Second' by Sam Vickery
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It most definitely will not be my last.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing cover and blurb. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 45 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are a nice length so that you can read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
The story is presented from the perspectives of Madeline and her best friend Laura. It has two time lapses of their school years and of the present. It is set in the UK which is always a bonus for me as I live in the UK.
I really loved the fact that the book went from past to present as it helps you discover more of the characters backgrounds it also reveals bits of the puzzle until the whole picture is revealed.
I also loved that the story is told from the perspectives of both Madeline and Laura as it shows you how each of the characters are feeling and what they are doing so you can see more of what is going on and don't miss anything. It also helps in this case for you to see both sides of the picture.
This book is beautifully written and is such a compelling read. The writing was nice and smooth so flowed nicely, especially so considering the past and present links. It was also heart wrenching and kept me turning the pages wanting to know what was going on with Tilly. It shows the love and courage of a mother and how far she would go to protect her child whilst going through every parents worse nightmare.
It is quite hard to mention what I thought of the ending without giving too much away and spoiling it for potential future readers so I will just leave a congratulations to the author and hopefully she will know what I mean by that!! I will also say that the story line is quite unique.
The characters were all well defined with their own flaws, strengths, secrets and backgrounds and I loved reading about the growing relationships of Madeline, Adam and Laura from childhood to adulthood. I also liked the strong characters of the 'background' families.
Overall a very well written, roller-coaster ride of emotions that will give every parent the need to cuddle their children while reading whilst also being on the edge of their seat plus filled with nail biting suspense!! A perfect book for fans of Jodi Picoult, who happens to be one of my favourite author!
Genres covered include domestic fiction, literary fiction and psychological fiction.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of the above genres, Jodi Picoult, suspense and anyone looking for a good read.
Sam Vickery you have made my favourite author list!! Congratulations!
328 pages
Free on Kindle Unlimited or 99p to purchase. I think this is an absolute bargain!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED IT ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#OneLastSecond #SamVickery #Bookouture #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@SamVickery @Bookouture @Bookworm1986
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
November 16, 2020
I loved the premise of this book as i have two grown up sons of my own and i know if they were ill how much i would fight to get them the medical help they needed.Madeline Tilly’s mother is pandering to Tilly's eating habits and her husband Adam retaliates by becoming over strict with his daughter.
Laura Madeline’s long time friend and G.P tends to agree with Adam but he seems to have influence over Laura because of her hidden feelings for him.
As Tilly’s condition worsens emotions run high between the adults. Madeline knows her gut reaction is that her daughter is seriously ill and she never deviates from this path even when her own sanity is questioned by the medics..Adam i found was quite an irritating character who came across as a bit of a bully to his ex wife and daughter and Laura i found weak and influenced by her feelings for Adam.It was only when the secrets of the past surfaced that i had a tiny bit of empathy for her. On the other hand Madeline was likeable ,
She was devoted to her daughter and fought courageously to get answers for her.
Tilly herself was a sweet little character and it hurt to read of her suffering especially given the lack of support from her daddy.
This book was beautifully written and a truly moving account of a mother’s courage and fight for a child despite the doubts of everyone.
Without giving the plot away i was disappointed at the very end with some medical discrepancies re the diagnosis (I have this condition myself)but overall a lovely read.
thankyou to netgalley for a copy in return for an honest review.
4 and half stars from me
Laura Madeline’s long time friend and G.P tends to agree with Adam but he seems to have influence over Laura because of her hidden feelings for him.
As Tilly’s condition worsens emotions run high between the adults. Madeline knows her gut reaction is that her daughter is seriously ill and she never deviates from this path even when her own sanity is questioned by the medics..Adam i found was quite an irritating character who came across as a bit of a bully to his ex wife and daughter and Laura i found weak and influenced by her feelings for Adam.It was only when the secrets of the past surfaced that i had a tiny bit of empathy for her. On the other hand Madeline was likeable ,
She was devoted to her daughter and fought courageously to get answers for her.
Tilly herself was a sweet little character and it hurt to read of her suffering especially given the lack of support from her daddy.
This book was beautifully written and a truly moving account of a mother’s courage and fight for a child despite the doubts of everyone.
Without giving the plot away i was disappointed at the very end with some medical discrepancies re the diagnosis (I have this condition myself)but overall a lovely read.
thankyou to netgalley for a copy in return for an honest review.
4 and half stars from me
July 15, 2020
OMG. The book made me cry and some. A mother’s love and her helplessness at knowing that something was wrong with her child when no one, not even the treating doctors, believed her. Author Sam Vickery devastated my heart with the emotions she managed to invoke. Every molecule of a mother’s desperation struck a chord in me.
Madeleine’s six year old daughter Tilly was always a fussy eater. And one day she collapsed. Madeleine insisted that Tilly was dreadfully ill and had to battle her best friend Laura and ex-husband to make her voice heard.
My first book by this author, I was pulled in from the first page with the dichord between the husband and wife and Tilly becoming unconscious. Then came Madeleine’s long battle with the doctors. The author raised the pitch of the narration when Tilly was sent back home and she became serious.
Madeleine was excellent, etched with the true heart of a mother, fierce in her protective nature like a lioness, wanting the best care for her daughter. I cheered her on in every battle that she had to fight. Accusations ran wild, but she held fast with her belief that her daughter needed help. Anxiety clawed my heart too seeing her circumstances.
Scenes from the past and present showed me how the characters grew together then apart. Each chapter was an emotional read. This was one book which had to be read to experience its true emotions.
A powerful story about the purity and strength of a mother’s love.
Madeleine’s six year old daughter Tilly was always a fussy eater. And one day she collapsed. Madeleine insisted that Tilly was dreadfully ill and had to battle her best friend Laura and ex-husband to make her voice heard.
My first book by this author, I was pulled in from the first page with the dichord between the husband and wife and Tilly becoming unconscious. Then came Madeleine’s long battle with the doctors. The author raised the pitch of the narration when Tilly was sent back home and she became serious.
Madeleine was excellent, etched with the true heart of a mother, fierce in her protective nature like a lioness, wanting the best care for her daughter. I cheered her on in every battle that she had to fight. Accusations ran wild, but she held fast with her belief that her daughter needed help. Anxiety clawed my heart too seeing her circumstances.
Scenes from the past and present showed me how the characters grew together then apart. Each chapter was an emotional read. This was one book which had to be read to experience its true emotions.
A powerful story about the purity and strength of a mother’s love.
June 10, 2020
The tag line was what drew me to this book--What if your child was dying and no one believed you? It's every parents nightmare! This book goes from present to past, which I love because it's like getting a little piece of the puzzle at a time until the whole picture unfolds.
This story centers around three friends; Madeline (Maddie) and Laura, who've known one another since grade school, and Adam Parkes. Maddie is an extrovert and the life of the party. Laura is an introvert and shy. Adam was the much sought after school athletic hunk. The three are always doing things together. A tragedy happens in Maddie's life that disrupts the friendship. It alters the three of them for varying reasons, including Laura, who has gone through her own heartbreak, which she has kept it secret from Maddie. Maddie goes on to marry Adam.
Madeline (Maddie) Parkes is a caring mother of a 6 year-old, and is hitting a stone wall with her ex-husband Adam. He doesn't see what Maddie sees and experiences with their daughter Tilly.
Adam Parkes is a pilot, who never wanted the divorce, he still loves Maddie, but continues to butt heads with her regarding their daughter. He feels Maddie isn't strict enough.
Laura Burts is a General Practitioner, and for a while was Tilly's doctor. Tilly calls her Auntie Laura, and Laura is like a second mom to her. Despite the divorce, Laura continues to be friends with both Maddie & Adam while trying to remain neutral.
Tilly hasn't been eating very well, complaining about an upset stomach and everything hurting. Since her stomach hurts after specific foods, Tilly only has a few choice items that she'll eat. When it is Adam's turn to have Tilly, he tries to force her to eat what he sets before her or she doesn't eat. After Tilly returns from a weekend with her father, she collapses in front of Maddie, who rushes her to the hospital.
The hospital staff chalks Tilly's symptoms up to dehydration and growing pains. When Tilly gets worse, and Maddie brings her back again, demanding more tests to be done. One physician starts to think Munchausen syndrome by proxy, and after speaking to Adam and Laura, who was talked into siding with Adam opens the door to removing Tilly from Maddie.
Maddie begins the battle of her life to convince those around her that she's not making it up, that Tilly really is sick.
This book dealt with a real life issue. As a mother, whose child was diagnosed in the ER, with a condition from an unknown cause, where it didn't go away and no one had heard of it, I know how hard it can be to get other adults including doctors to understand. It is an emotional & moving story!
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Bookouture and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
This story centers around three friends; Madeline (Maddie) and Laura, who've known one another since grade school, and Adam Parkes. Maddie is an extrovert and the life of the party. Laura is an introvert and shy. Adam was the much sought after school athletic hunk. The three are always doing things together. A tragedy happens in Maddie's life that disrupts the friendship. It alters the three of them for varying reasons, including Laura, who has gone through her own heartbreak, which she has kept it secret from Maddie. Maddie goes on to marry Adam.
Madeline (Maddie) Parkes is a caring mother of a 6 year-old, and is hitting a stone wall with her ex-husband Adam. He doesn't see what Maddie sees and experiences with their daughter Tilly.
Adam Parkes is a pilot, who never wanted the divorce, he still loves Maddie, but continues to butt heads with her regarding their daughter. He feels Maddie isn't strict enough.
Laura Burts is a General Practitioner, and for a while was Tilly's doctor. Tilly calls her Auntie Laura, and Laura is like a second mom to her. Despite the divorce, Laura continues to be friends with both Maddie & Adam while trying to remain neutral.
Tilly hasn't been eating very well, complaining about an upset stomach and everything hurting. Since her stomach hurts after specific foods, Tilly only has a few choice items that she'll eat. When it is Adam's turn to have Tilly, he tries to force her to eat what he sets before her or she doesn't eat. After Tilly returns from a weekend with her father, she collapses in front of Maddie, who rushes her to the hospital.
The hospital staff chalks Tilly's symptoms up to dehydration and growing pains. When Tilly gets worse, and Maddie brings her back again, demanding more tests to be done. One physician starts to think Munchausen syndrome by proxy, and after speaking to Adam and Laura, who was talked into siding with Adam opens the door to removing Tilly from Maddie.
Maddie begins the battle of her life to convince those around her that she's not making it up, that Tilly really is sick.
This book dealt with a real life issue. As a mother, whose child was diagnosed in the ER, with a condition from an unknown cause, where it didn't go away and no one had heard of it, I know how hard it can be to get other adults including doctors to understand. It is an emotional & moving story!
I received an ARC from NetGalley via Bookouture and I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
July 23, 2020
One Last Second is about every mother's worst nightmare. Imagine knowing that something is killing your child and nobody, not even her father, is willing to believe you. Madeline's six year old daughter, Tilly, gets sick every time she eats. Tilly's father and Madeline's ex-husband, Adam thinks Madeline is being overprotective of Tilly's fussy eating. Even their best friend, Laura, takes Adam's side in this matter. But then one day, Tilly faints and is rushed to the hospital. The doctors however insist that she is fine with Adam and Laura agreeing with their diagnosis. Then another night, Tilly ends up vomiting so much that she is severely dehydrated and is again taken to hospital. Everything starts going downhill from there. The more Madeline insists that something is wrong, the higher the risk that Tilly will be taken from her. But Madeline knows in her heart that something is terribly wrong. After a while, Adam and Laura start thinking that things will be better if Tilly stays with Adam instead.
This book was intense for me to read as a mother. I honestly don't know how I would survive it if I was in Madeline's place. At six years old, you want your child to be happy and without a care in the world, not in pain every single time he/she tries to eat.
Tilly was beautiful though. She was just as fiercely devoted to her mother as Madeline was to her. Their relationship was lovely to read about. She loved Adam as well but due to his insistence that she was making up her issues, their relationship was very strained throughout the book. I did not understand Laura though. From the time she was introduced, I found myself wondering how Madeline could not have known how she felt. It was so obvious.
The story happened in two perspectives. The present and some recollections of the past at the beginning of Madeline & Adam's romance. The plot moved at a good pace and the character development was well done. I closed the book feeling quite satisfied by what I had just read.
Suitable audience: Older teenagers and adults who enjoy women's fiction
Recurrent themes: Motherhood. Fear. Sickness. Unrequited love
Violence: None. A character was escorted out of a hospital by police officers which may have been disturbing for some readers
Sexual Content: There was one scene of sex which may make some readers uncomfortable
Profanity: Instances of obscene language
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Some of all three was done by different characters in some of the scenes in the past
This book was intense for me to read as a mother. I honestly don't know how I would survive it if I was in Madeline's place. At six years old, you want your child to be happy and without a care in the world, not in pain every single time he/she tries to eat.
Tilly was beautiful though. She was just as fiercely devoted to her mother as Madeline was to her. Their relationship was lovely to read about. She loved Adam as well but due to his insistence that she was making up her issues, their relationship was very strained throughout the book. I did not understand Laura though. From the time she was introduced, I found myself wondering how Madeline could not have known how she felt. It was so obvious.
The story happened in two perspectives. The present and some recollections of the past at the beginning of Madeline & Adam's romance. The plot moved at a good pace and the character development was well done. I closed the book feeling quite satisfied by what I had just read.
Suitable audience: Older teenagers and adults who enjoy women's fiction
Recurrent themes: Motherhood. Fear. Sickness. Unrequited love
Violence: None. A character was escorted out of a hospital by police officers which may have been disturbing for some readers
Sexual Content: There was one scene of sex which may make some readers uncomfortable
Profanity: Instances of obscene language
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Some of all three was done by different characters in some of the scenes in the past
May 27, 2020
When Madeline's six-year-old daughter Tilly collapses one Sunday night, Madeline’s world is turned upside down. Racing to the hospital, she imagines the worst scenarios in her mind, but when they arrive the doctors say that Tilly is fine.
Madeline’s ex-husband Adam and her best friend Laura think Madeline is being overprotective, that Tilly fainted because of her fussy eating. But Madeline is sure something is seriously wrong with Tilly. She can feel it. And she believes that a mother’s instinct is never wrong.
This book is so heart rendering!!
Its a beautifully written book about a mother's love for her child and the extent a mother will go to make sure her child is treated in the best way. Its amazing to see that even when no one believes Madeline and when she is accused of child abuse, she doesn't give up.
It draws you in write from the first page and I couldn't stop myself from turning the pages to reach the end. It reinforces the fact that "A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world".
Highly Recommended!!
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!!
Madeline’s ex-husband Adam and her best friend Laura think Madeline is being overprotective, that Tilly fainted because of her fussy eating. But Madeline is sure something is seriously wrong with Tilly. She can feel it. And she believes that a mother’s instinct is never wrong.
This book is so heart rendering!!
Its a beautifully written book about a mother's love for her child and the extent a mother will go to make sure her child is treated in the best way. Its amazing to see that even when no one believes Madeline and when she is accused of child abuse, she doesn't give up.
It draws you in write from the first page and I couldn't stop myself from turning the pages to reach the end. It reinforces the fact that "A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world".
Highly Recommended!!
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!!
June 4, 2020
Although I understand the message the author is trying to get across in this story, I found it a little dull and predictable.
The characters are fairly standard; a charming, good-looking male who all the ladies adore, a care-free, confident women who has no inhibitions and her meek, self-doubting best friend.
This story wasn't for me, but I am glad that Sam Vickery is promoting illness (and the taboo surrounding it) by including it in a fictional story.
The characters are fairly standard; a charming, good-looking male who all the ladies adore, a care-free, confident women who has no inhibitions and her meek, self-doubting best friend.
This story wasn't for me, but I am glad that Sam Vickery is promoting illness (and the taboo surrounding it) by including it in a fictional story.
June 24, 2022
A heartbreaking story! It brought tears to my eyes! I was able to read it in one sitting!
May 31, 2020
ARC received from Netgalley.
What an amazing unputdownable story! I started reading this book just before bed last night and the next thing I knew it was the early hours and I’d finished it. I couldn’t stop reading, I just had to know how it would end.
Madeline’s little girl Tilly has always been sick and at a young age this was put down to reflux and brushed under the rug. But as a mother myself when you know there’s something more wrong with your child, you just know. I identified with Madeline so much. Tilly seems to be getting worse and add that to an ex husband who thinks little Tilly is just being fussy, and a third wheel best friend who I wasn’t quite sure where her story fit into all this at first, and you have quite the story.
The book goes back to the past when the three friends were kids themselves and still at school. Slowly painting a picture of the trios dynamic, and then back to the present and to how they are now.
I actually had so many theories as the story progressed I didn’t have a clue where the story was taking me. All the while Madeline was 100% positive something was wrong with her little girl and nobody, not one person who should have been backing her up actually did. My heart broke for Maddie and I was on the edge of my seat hoping that someone would finally see what she saw and take her seriously, and find out just what was wrong with Tilly.
Maddie never gave up and she showed just how strong a Mum can be when tested. This story is a powerful one and one that will stick with me forever!
Five stars!
What an amazing unputdownable story! I started reading this book just before bed last night and the next thing I knew it was the early hours and I’d finished it. I couldn’t stop reading, I just had to know how it would end.
Madeline’s little girl Tilly has always been sick and at a young age this was put down to reflux and brushed under the rug. But as a mother myself when you know there’s something more wrong with your child, you just know. I identified with Madeline so much. Tilly seems to be getting worse and add that to an ex husband who thinks little Tilly is just being fussy, and a third wheel best friend who I wasn’t quite sure where her story fit into all this at first, and you have quite the story.
The book goes back to the past when the three friends were kids themselves and still at school. Slowly painting a picture of the trios dynamic, and then back to the present and to how they are now.
I actually had so many theories as the story progressed I didn’t have a clue where the story was taking me. All the while Madeline was 100% positive something was wrong with her little girl and nobody, not one person who should have been backing her up actually did. My heart broke for Maddie and I was on the edge of my seat hoping that someone would finally see what she saw and take her seriously, and find out just what was wrong with Tilly.
Maddie never gave up and she showed just how strong a Mum can be when tested. This story is a powerful one and one that will stick with me forever!
Five stars!
July 16, 2020
This is very much a tale of two different sides of a coin. On the one side is Madeline who swears there is something wrong with her daughter Tilly. On the opposite side is her ex husband who thinks she is just a fussy eater and that Madeline has pandered to her and their joint friend Laura who is also a doctor and has stopped being Tilly’s doctor as she felt it would affect their friendship. However she has remained friends with both Madeline and Adam even after the split choosing not to take a side.
The author has cleverly used all the narratives to show different perspectives so you do question which side is right. As a mum but also as someone who has seen first hand how doctors can be wrong and the fight you have on your hands when questioning them I was really hoping it would be Madeline. It’s common knowledge that physicians are told when you hear hoofbeats think horse not zebra. Well occasionally some of us are zebras. But then on the flip side there is also the mental health disorder of Munchausen by proxy where someone can force someone else into the role of patient.
I found all the characters plausible and the author has cleverly used a dual time line to show you how their relationships have evolved over time. This gives both the characters and story real depth.
Being both a family drama and mystery this ticked a lot of boxes for me and I look forward to reading more from this author.
The author has cleverly used all the narratives to show different perspectives so you do question which side is right. As a mum but also as someone who has seen first hand how doctors can be wrong and the fight you have on your hands when questioning them I was really hoping it would be Madeline. It’s common knowledge that physicians are told when you hear hoofbeats think horse not zebra. Well occasionally some of us are zebras. But then on the flip side there is also the mental health disorder of Munchausen by proxy where someone can force someone else into the role of patient.
I found all the characters plausible and the author has cleverly used a dual time line to show you how their relationships have evolved over time. This gives both the characters and story real depth.
Being both a family drama and mystery this ticked a lot of boxes for me and I look forward to reading more from this author.
June 3, 2020
One Last Second by Sam Vickery is an emotional read that will certainly pull at the heartstrings. This is a powerful story of a mother's love, and the lengths that she is willing to go for her child.
Madeline's six year old daughter Tilly is not well. Small for her age, Tilly refuses to eat, complains of joint pain, and has frequent bouts of nausea and vomiting on the rare occasions when she is persuaded to eat or drink. Having recently separated from her husband, Adam, Madeline is most often alone in dealing with Tilly's symptoms. Adam, for his part, believes that Tilly is simply fussy, and that all of this carry on is the result of Madeline's tendency to indulge the whims of their young daughter. Mysteriously, Tilly's symptoms worsen when she is in her mother's care, and suspicions are cast on to Madeline, who claims that she only wants relief for her young daughter. How does a mother who would do anything to help her child suddenly become cast as the villain of the piece?
This is a compelling read, both heart wrenching and frustrating in almost equal measure. I raced through the pages, almost as desperately as her parents, to determine what was really at the root of Tilly's illness. Recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
Madeline's six year old daughter Tilly is not well. Small for her age, Tilly refuses to eat, complains of joint pain, and has frequent bouts of nausea and vomiting on the rare occasions when she is persuaded to eat or drink. Having recently separated from her husband, Adam, Madeline is most often alone in dealing with Tilly's symptoms. Adam, for his part, believes that Tilly is simply fussy, and that all of this carry on is the result of Madeline's tendency to indulge the whims of their young daughter. Mysteriously, Tilly's symptoms worsen when she is in her mother's care, and suspicions are cast on to Madeline, who claims that she only wants relief for her young daughter. How does a mother who would do anything to help her child suddenly become cast as the villain of the piece?
This is a compelling read, both heart wrenching and frustrating in almost equal measure. I raced through the pages, almost as desperately as her parents, to determine what was really at the root of Tilly's illness. Recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
June 5, 2020
What if you knew your child was sick and no one believed you? It’s every parent’s worst nightmare. Madeline knew firsthand what this was like when her six-year-old daughter, Tilly, collapsed one night. The doctors chalked it up to her being a fussy eater, but as she continued to get sick, doctors began to wonder if the real problem was her mother. Madeline was determined to be an advocate for her daughter and wouldn’t rest until doctors gave her some answers.
It was heartbreaking to see Tilly go through everything, especially in addition to her parents’ divorce, and Madeline was suffering right along with her because no one believed that something was seriously wrong with her daughter. It’s scary knowing that this really happens to some families, and makes you wonder how many children go undiagnosed with rare illnesses because doctors aren’t willing to look outside of the box.
This was a great read, and it was nice to see some light shed on this topic. Definitely recommending this one.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
It was heartbreaking to see Tilly go through everything, especially in addition to her parents’ divorce, and Madeline was suffering right along with her because no one believed that something was seriously wrong with her daughter. It’s scary knowing that this really happens to some families, and makes you wonder how many children go undiagnosed with rare illnesses because doctors aren’t willing to look outside of the box.
This was a great read, and it was nice to see some light shed on this topic. Definitely recommending this one.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
May 29, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the Arc of this book! And to Sam Vickery❤️
What an amazing rollercoaster of a book!😱
When Tilly, Maddie's and her ex husband's daughter collapses on a Sunday night she is rushed to the hospital to be told by the doctors that she is fine... Her mum instincts kick in as she know she isn't fine she feels it!! After all the doctors saying its nothing and everything is fine they finally figure out at the end what it could be!
A heart pulling story of a mother's love and courage for her daughter and how far she will actually go to protect her and make sure she is treated in the right way!! Even when she is accused of child abuse she don't give up!
I highly recommend you read this book! Such a page turner and I loved it so much thank you Sam Vickery and Bookouture and NetGalley will reviewed on Amazon once it's been released🥰❤️
What an amazing rollercoaster of a book!😱
When Tilly, Maddie's and her ex husband's daughter collapses on a Sunday night she is rushed to the hospital to be told by the doctors that she is fine... Her mum instincts kick in as she know she isn't fine she feels it!! After all the doctors saying its nothing and everything is fine they finally figure out at the end what it could be!
A heart pulling story of a mother's love and courage for her daughter and how far she will actually go to protect her and make sure she is treated in the right way!! Even when she is accused of child abuse she don't give up!
I highly recommend you read this book! Such a page turner and I loved it so much thank you Sam Vickery and Bookouture and NetGalley will reviewed on Amazon once it's been released🥰❤️
July 17, 2020
This was a book, I found very easy to relate to, being a parent myself. I felt for Maddie and I could feel the way the book was leading but wasn't entirely sure if that was the right path or not.
I found Laura mildy irritating and even started to question her involvement in Tillys illness. As the book moved on I found a better understanding of Laura and actually felt sorry for her too.
I was indifferent about Adam but I could see how much he loved Tilly and Maddie.
This book flowed really well and I loved the flash backs, which were perfectly positioned in the book.
This was another exceptional book by Sam Vickery and I eagerly await her next one.
I found Laura mildy irritating and even started to question her involvement in Tillys illness. As the book moved on I found a better understanding of Laura and actually felt sorry for her too.
I was indifferent about Adam but I could see how much he loved Tilly and Maddie.
This book flowed really well and I loved the flash backs, which were perfectly positioned in the book.
This was another exceptional book by Sam Vickery and I eagerly await her next one.
June 10, 2020
This is an extremely well told, heart wrenching story where a mother's intuition about her child is under estimated .
Madeleine is divorced from Adam and mum to daughter Tilly. She spends the week with her mum and weekends with her dad. However Tilly does not appear well when in Maddys care and is admitted to hospital on a number of occasions with vomitting and dehydration. She is absolutely convinced she is not well but her actions are soon questioned not only by Adam but also the doctors.
This story follows Maddys fight to get the correct treatment for her daughter whilst her previous health issues themselves lead others to doubt her motives.
Brilliant read, highly recommend.
Madeleine is divorced from Adam and mum to daughter Tilly. She spends the week with her mum and weekends with her dad. However Tilly does not appear well when in Maddys care and is admitted to hospital on a number of occasions with vomitting and dehydration. She is absolutely convinced she is not well but her actions are soon questioned not only by Adam but also the doctors.
This story follows Maddys fight to get the correct treatment for her daughter whilst her previous health issues themselves lead others to doubt her motives.
Brilliant read, highly recommend.
July 15, 2020
What does a mother do when she is convinced that her six year old daughter is terribly ill but no one believes her. No one....not her ex-husband, not the doctors, not her best friend.
Lots of struggles passed on to the reader. Is Tilly really sick? Is her mother convincing her she is sick? Does Tilly have psychiatric issues making her sick?
While this book would not be categorized as a mystery in the true sense, it certainly kept me guessing.
It was an emotional and at times a frustrating read. Very compelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book.
Lots of struggles passed on to the reader. Is Tilly really sick? Is her mother convincing her she is sick? Does Tilly have psychiatric issues making her sick?
While this book would not be categorized as a mystery in the true sense, it certainly kept me guessing.
It was an emotional and at times a frustrating read. Very compelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book.
June 16, 2020
One Last Second by Sam Vickery is an emotionally charged read. It takes you on a journey of one mothers fight to find out what is wrong with her 6 year old daughter. A mother that ignored the child abuse accusations not only by the doctor, but her ex-husband and bestfriend, to find a diagnosis. An excellent read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the free digital ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the free digital ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
December 14, 2020
Maddie knows there is something wrong with her 6 year old daughter Tilly and believes deep down that there has always been a problem but no one else believes her. Not her husband, not her best friend, doctors, nurses no one.
After countless trips to the GP, being blue lighted into hospital on more than one occasion Maddie is horrified when the finger is finally pointed at her and events from her past that could be the result of Tilly’s illness.
Tilly’s father is given custody of her and Maddie is left broken hearted and terrified over what lies ahead for her poor helpless little girl. Finally Maddie received a phone call from Tilly’s father it’s happened again, Tilly has got poorly and this time with no direct contact at all with Maddie he is forced to believe and admit that his ex wife hasn’t in fact harmed her daughter at all and finally accepts that something is wrong with his daughter and that they need to get to the bottom of it.
This book really is an eye opening and heartbreaking read. On many occasions I wanted to cry for the little family and for Maddies best friend Laura. This author certainly takes her readers on an emotional ride! I defiantly want to read more of her books after reading this one.
After countless trips to the GP, being blue lighted into hospital on more than one occasion Maddie is horrified when the finger is finally pointed at her and events from her past that could be the result of Tilly’s illness.
Tilly’s father is given custody of her and Maddie is left broken hearted and terrified over what lies ahead for her poor helpless little girl. Finally Maddie received a phone call from Tilly’s father it’s happened again, Tilly has got poorly and this time with no direct contact at all with Maddie he is forced to believe and admit that his ex wife hasn’t in fact harmed her daughter at all and finally accepts that something is wrong with his daughter and that they need to get to the bottom of it.
This book really is an eye opening and heartbreaking read. On many occasions I wanted to cry for the little family and for Maddies best friend Laura. This author certainly takes her readers on an emotional ride! I defiantly want to read more of her books after reading this one.
August 3, 2020
What an emotional rollercoaster this book was! When Maddie has to rush her baby girl Tilly into hospital due to fainting and constant sickness and the inability to keep down any food or water she is hit with scepticism from the medical professionals who are supposed to help her daughter recover. If nobody is looking for a diagnosis then how is Tilly ever going to recover and be a healthy 6 year old? Even Maddies ex husband Adam thinks Maddie is over exaggerating and that Tilly is just fussy and spoilt. Maddie then faces the toughest decision of her life .. should she let Adam take over Tilly’s care in a bid to get the help she so desperately needs? This book is so powerful and emotional I had to sneak up and hug my daughter countless times while reading it. It really shows how far a mother will go to protect her child and I love how it gives some much needed publicity to a very little known condition. I will be recommending this to everyone I know and looking forward to reading more from this author once I have managed to dry up my tears!
July 15, 2021
One Last Second by Sam Vickery was just a beautifully written book. You "will need tissues" and a lot of them as it's a emotional heartbreaking hard read that will leave a lump on your throat and for your grabbing some tissues.
"What if your child was dying and no one believed you?"
When, Madeleine’s six year old daughter Tilly who has always been a fussy eater, collapsed one day. Madeleine insisted that Tilly has been dreadfully ill but no one believes her. She now has a battle on her hands with her best friend Laura and ex-husband to make her voice heard.
Will they believe Madeleine about her daughter or will her two closest people turn against her?
?
In Sam's latest book it covers so many sensitives issues about parenthood, friendship and betrayal so go prepared to cry, I did
Hmmm.......Don't judge the book by its cover..........Well, I loved the cover and I did and the cover was just perfect for this latest book by Sam.
I highly recommend this latest book............5 star read.
"What if your child was dying and no one believed you?"
When, Madeleine’s six year old daughter Tilly who has always been a fussy eater, collapsed one day. Madeleine insisted that Tilly has been dreadfully ill but no one believes her. She now has a battle on her hands with her best friend Laura and ex-husband to make her voice heard.
Will they believe Madeleine about her daughter or will her two closest people turn against her?
?
In Sam's latest book it covers so many sensitives issues about parenthood, friendship and betrayal so go prepared to cry, I did
Hmmm.......Don't judge the book by its cover..........Well, I loved the cover and I did and the cover was just perfect for this latest book by Sam.
I highly recommend this latest book............5 star read.
September 5, 2020
Was not a fan of the book. I found it too predictable and found myself hating the mother. I liked the premise of the story, mom fighting tooth and nail against everyone to get help for her sick daughter.
The mom was just not a likable person. At points I couldn't figure out if she was fighting for her daughter, still pining for her ex-husband or having her previous metal illness come back to haunt her or just plain self absorbed. She'd be fighting for answers at the same time as refusing to let more blood work be done. She wouldn't let Dad stay alone with the child until she was forced to. There were too many factors to make you doubt that she was fighting for her daughter.
Even in the end when you find out yes she was just fighting for her all that that time, I was left feeling like okay mom you got Tilly's problems worked out time for you to get some serious mental health treatment too.
The mom was just not a likable person. At points I couldn't figure out if she was fighting for her daughter, still pining for her ex-husband or having her previous metal illness come back to haunt her or just plain self absorbed. She'd be fighting for answers at the same time as refusing to let more blood work be done. She wouldn't let Dad stay alone with the child until she was forced to. There were too many factors to make you doubt that she was fighting for her daughter.
Even in the end when you find out yes she was just fighting for her all that that time, I was left feeling like okay mom you got Tilly's problems worked out time for you to get some serious mental health treatment too.
December 6, 2020
At first I was thinking in the line of Adam's thought.
Lots of children can be fussy and tend to try to get what they want.
But on the other hand, it was Madeline who always had to soothe Tilly and clean her up after she had vomited so violently, until their was nothing left in her little body.
How scary and frustrating it must be when, not only your ex-husband, but also your best friend ànd the doctors and nurses not only say your little girl is fine and dismiss her symptoms, but then start to say that you are mentally unstable and they take your child away from you?
What a nightmare that must be for Madeline and Tilly!
When Adam is given temporary custody of Tilly and experiences the same problem with the vomiting, and calls Maddie in desperation, I nearly cried of relief.
From that moment they worked together as civil people in a common goal: find out what 's the problem with Tilly's health.
Lots of children can be fussy and tend to try to get what they want.
But on the other hand, it was Madeline who always had to soothe Tilly and clean her up after she had vomited so violently, until their was nothing left in her little body.
How scary and frustrating it must be when, not only your ex-husband, but also your best friend ànd the doctors and nurses not only say your little girl is fine and dismiss her symptoms, but then start to say that you are mentally unstable and they take your child away from you?
What a nightmare that must be for Madeline and Tilly!
When Adam is given temporary custody of Tilly and experiences the same problem with the vomiting, and calls Maddie in desperation, I nearly cried of relief.
From that moment they worked together as civil people in a common goal: find out what 's the problem with Tilly's health.
May 8, 2021
I’ve read all of Sam’s books now, not in order, with this being the last one I’ve read. They’ve all been about either/or children/babies, infertility, losing babies, illness, troubled relationships, and giving birth at home. I thought this book, “One Last Second”, was one of her best, although they’re all good. The story about Tilly was very realistic, and a parent’s worst nightmare, to know that your child is sick, and not only does no one believe you, but they also blame you for it. I didn’t care for Laura, she wasted a good chunk of her life absorbed with Maddie and Adam, even though it was totally unhealthy for her, and a bit pathetic. I can’t imagine her being a doctor. Speaking of doctors, the one doctor was so horrible, I felt my own anger rising! I don’t want to give anything away, so I’ll just say that it was a good book, well written, and I recommend it to those who like reading family dramas. I’ll be waiting for Sam’s next book to come out.
January 2, 2023
This was an excellent book and a page turner. I didn't want to put it down.
It reminded me of my daughter when no one, except me, would believe her that something was wrong with her son. She persisted for three and a half years, breast feeding her boy because he refused to eat or drink anything else, screwed his legs up in pain if he did eat and had sloppy green bowel actions. He was skinny, underweight and often in pain. She was called an overanxious mother, a hypochondriac and told, by the authorities, she must stop breast feeding and force him to eat. Finally, he was diagnosed with Guardia and when treated became a different child.
Sam Vickery's descriptions of what was happening with Madeline, Adam and Tilly were graphic and believable. A mother knows when something is not right with her child. Poor Madeline. What happened to her was horrific. This is one of those books with the "wow" factor. I loved it.
I am a mother and experienced nurse and midwife so this story is completely believable to me.
It reminded me of my daughter when no one, except me, would believe her that something was wrong with her son. She persisted for three and a half years, breast feeding her boy because he refused to eat or drink anything else, screwed his legs up in pain if he did eat and had sloppy green bowel actions. He was skinny, underweight and often in pain. She was called an overanxious mother, a hypochondriac and told, by the authorities, she must stop breast feeding and force him to eat. Finally, he was diagnosed with Guardia and when treated became a different child.
Sam Vickery's descriptions of what was happening with Madeline, Adam and Tilly were graphic and believable. A mother knows when something is not right with her child. Poor Madeline. What happened to her was horrific. This is one of those books with the "wow" factor. I loved it.
I am a mother and experienced nurse and midwife so this story is completely believable to me.
August 23, 2020
Brilliant and yet heartbreaking throughout, from a mother's perspective and determination to be heard when nobody else would!.An absolutely true story of a mother and the love for her child determined to find a diagnosis and get her daughter the treatment she so deserved to give her a new lease of life in her very young year's to thrive and at last live as she should...happy and as healthy as possible.
A true life lesson of the love a mother has for her child,to prove that with all the knowledge and experience of a doctor there is always something else to learn even if it means losing so much to prove it. A truly brilliant yet heartbreaking read with a very emotional ending.
A true life lesson of the love a mother has for her child,to prove that with all the knowledge and experience of a doctor there is always something else to learn even if it means losing so much to prove it. A truly brilliant yet heartbreaking read with a very emotional ending.
August 7, 2020
I loved this book. It was an emotional roller coaster like no other I've been on. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more from them. It is a well written story that I was pulled into right from the beginning. The characters made the story easy to read and they made the story pop. I had no problem connecting with the characters. This is a story about a mother determined to get medical attention to her daughter and the struggle she goes through to get what she wants. It is a story of family and friendship as well. I highly recommend this book. It is a must read!
August 23, 2020
Heartbreaking
What a heartbreaking story of a mother's fight for her daughter's medical illness. The saddest part of this story is that it could be true. There are so many doctors out there that think that their word is law. People need to advocate for not only their children's rights but their own also. There are quite a few illnesses out there where doctors don't know much of, or anything about them.
What a heartbreaking story of a mother's fight for her daughter's medical illness. The saddest part of this story is that it could be true. There are so many doctors out there that think that their word is law. People need to advocate for not only their children's rights but their own also. There are quite a few illnesses out there where doctors don't know much of, or anything about them.
January 9, 2022
Unusual and interesting
This story keeps you guessing... Is mom the root cause of little Tilly's health problems? Is keeping them separated the answer? And what are Laura's true motivations? Does she want Maddie's life? Another great page turner from Vickery who writes about the imperfect sides of life and what it truly means to love and be a family. My favorite book by her is, "Her Silent Husband".
This story keeps you guessing... Is mom the root cause of little Tilly's health problems? Is keeping them separated the answer? And what are Laura's true motivations? Does she want Maddie's life? Another great page turner from Vickery who writes about the imperfect sides of life and what it truly means to love and be a family. My favorite book by her is, "Her Silent Husband".
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