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Ask No Questions
The new crime thriller from the bestselling author of Her Name Was Rose
Twenty-five years ago, on Halloween night, eight-year-old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends.
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating—but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
A twisty psychological thriller from bestselling author Claire Allan.
Twenty-five years ago, on Halloween night, eight-year-old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends.
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating—but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
A twisty psychological thriller from bestselling author Claire Allan.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 21, 2021
162 people are currently reading
1448 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 309 reviews
November 12, 2021
Actual rating: 4,5 stars
I just finished this novel, and I still need to comprehend everything that's been going on in the story, but I couldn't resist and I had to write my review right away, while the story is still fresh in my mind.
Last year I read (and enjoyed) Allan's novel The Liar's Daughter. What I liked the most in that book was the small town atmosphere the author created.
This time, it was the characters.
I applause the writer for creating so interesting and believable characters that made me feel like I do know them, do see them and pay attention to everyone.
Often in books, especially in thrillers/crimes, there are often characters that just show themselves few times and we don't pay attention to them, but in this story everyone was under spotlight for at least some time.
It was similar like watching a tv show, where you do get to see characters and remember them, connect with them on a different level.
As for the story itself, it had a good plot.
It was hard for me to predict where the story would go, and who'd be the bad guy, as I really didn't have anyone to suspect more than others.
The writing style is good. The book is written in first person following Ingrid's POV (who is a reporter, investing the story) and in third person following twins that are side characters of the story.
As a readers who's English is not the first language, I thought that the book is written in Scottish English, but I guess the author is Irish.
Anyway, there were words that were new to me and I was so happy to expanse my vocabulary thanks to this book.
The end was pretty satisfying and I think I would read this book in only 2 days if I had more time to read, bc I finished it in only three sittings (keep in mind that I am a slow reader).
If you're looking for a quick thriller to read, look no further!
I just finished this novel, and I still need to comprehend everything that's been going on in the story, but I couldn't resist and I had to write my review right away, while the story is still fresh in my mind.
Last year I read (and enjoyed) Allan's novel The Liar's Daughter. What I liked the most in that book was the small town atmosphere the author created.
This time, it was the characters.
I applause the writer for creating so interesting and believable characters that made me feel like I do know them, do see them and pay attention to everyone.
Often in books, especially in thrillers/crimes, there are often characters that just show themselves few times and we don't pay attention to them, but in this story everyone was under spotlight for at least some time.
It was similar like watching a tv show, where you do get to see characters and remember them, connect with them on a different level.
As for the story itself, it had a good plot.
It was hard for me to predict where the story would go, and who'd be the bad guy, as I really didn't have anyone to suspect more than others.
The writing style is good. The book is written in first person following Ingrid's POV (who is a reporter, investing the story) and in third person following twins that are side characters of the story.
As a readers who's English is not the first language, I thought that the book is written in Scottish English, but I guess the author is Irish.
Anyway, there were words that were new to me and I was so happy to expanse my vocabulary thanks to this book.
The end was pretty satisfying and I think I would read this book in only 2 days if I had more time to read, bc I finished it in only three sittings (keep in mind that I am a slow reader).
If you're looking for a quick thriller to read, look no further!
January 24, 2021
EXCERPT: I was ten years old when I found out that monsters are real and they walk among us. I can pinpoint the exact day that everything changed, when the world I'd found to be fun and innocent and good turned into something dark and frightening.
Looking back, I pity my mother having to find the words to tell my brothers and me what had happened. I pitied all the mothers and fathers who were forced to have that same conversation with their children at the dinner table that evening.
There'd be no playing out in the street any more. There'd be no nipping in and out of neighbours' houses, or knocking on doors looking for a glass of water when we were parched from playing Tig or Red Rover, or riding our bicycles all over the estate in and out of the dark alleyways.
We were never to go out on our own. Nor walk back from school on our own. Even though it would still be light then. We were absolutely not allowed to take the shortcut through the overgrown fields at the back of the school, either.
And we were never, ever, ever to go into anyone's house on our own. No matter how well we knew them. No matter how many times we'd been there before.
Because Kelly Doherty had been found and she was dead.
ABOUT 'ASK NO QUESTIONS': Twenty-five years ago, on Halloween night, eight-year-old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends.
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating – but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
MY THOUGHTS: This is the second excellent book that I have read by this author, the first being Her Name Was Rose.
Ask No Questions is very aptly titled. I have never known anyone who was murdered, but I would imagine that if I had, it would never leave me. I would always, like Ingrid, be wondering if there was something I could have done to prevent it. And like Ingrid, if I had the chance to make sure that person was not forgotten, I would take it. However, I doubt that I would be as single-minded or as hard-nosed about it as Ingrid, especially once the threats started. But Ingrid is a person who doesn't mind rocking the boat to see what the waves will dislodge.
Claire Allen had me hooked from the beginning. She has skillfully built up an air of mystery and menace, and doubt as to the guilt of Jamesy Harte, who was convicted of Kelly Doherty's murder. Told over the periods of 1994 and 2019 by Ingrid, the journalist writing the twenty-five year anniversary piece on Kelly's murder, and Declan, one of the Heaney twins who discovered Kelly's body, the storyline is dark and gritty, the twists plausible and unpredictable, the characters engaging and realistic, if not always likeable.
I often found myself holding my breath - in anticipation, in dread - as I suspected almost everyone of killing Kelly.
Ask No Questions is an engaging and emotional read that occasionally unnerved me. And while I may have had a solid suspicion as to the identity of the killer, I had no idea of the how and why. That was a climactic revelation that had me shedding a few tears, and not for the first time during this read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#AskNoQuestions #NetGalley
'We all get lonely. Even those of us in big houses with partners and children.'
THE AUTHOR: Claire Allan is a Northern Irish author who lives in Derry~Londonderry with her husband, two children, two cats and a very spoiled puppy.
She worked as a staff reporter for the Derry Journal for 17 years, covering a wide array of stories from court sessions, to the Saville Inquiry into the events of Bloody Sunday, health and education and human interest features.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Avon Books UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Ask No Questions by Claire Allen for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Looking back, I pity my mother having to find the words to tell my brothers and me what had happened. I pitied all the mothers and fathers who were forced to have that same conversation with their children at the dinner table that evening.
There'd be no playing out in the street any more. There'd be no nipping in and out of neighbours' houses, or knocking on doors looking for a glass of water when we were parched from playing Tig or Red Rover, or riding our bicycles all over the estate in and out of the dark alleyways.
We were never to go out on our own. Nor walk back from school on our own. Even though it would still be light then. We were absolutely not allowed to take the shortcut through the overgrown fields at the back of the school, either.
And we were never, ever, ever to go into anyone's house on our own. No matter how well we knew them. No matter how many times we'd been there before.
Because Kelly Doherty had been found and she was dead.
ABOUT 'ASK NO QUESTIONS': Twenty-five years ago, on Halloween night, eight-year-old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends.
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating – but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
MY THOUGHTS: This is the second excellent book that I have read by this author, the first being Her Name Was Rose.
Ask No Questions is very aptly titled. I have never known anyone who was murdered, but I would imagine that if I had, it would never leave me. I would always, like Ingrid, be wondering if there was something I could have done to prevent it. And like Ingrid, if I had the chance to make sure that person was not forgotten, I would take it. However, I doubt that I would be as single-minded or as hard-nosed about it as Ingrid, especially once the threats started. But Ingrid is a person who doesn't mind rocking the boat to see what the waves will dislodge.
Claire Allen had me hooked from the beginning. She has skillfully built up an air of mystery and menace, and doubt as to the guilt of Jamesy Harte, who was convicted of Kelly Doherty's murder. Told over the periods of 1994 and 2019 by Ingrid, the journalist writing the twenty-five year anniversary piece on Kelly's murder, and Declan, one of the Heaney twins who discovered Kelly's body, the storyline is dark and gritty, the twists plausible and unpredictable, the characters engaging and realistic, if not always likeable.
I often found myself holding my breath - in anticipation, in dread - as I suspected almost everyone of killing Kelly.
Ask No Questions is an engaging and emotional read that occasionally unnerved me. And while I may have had a solid suspicion as to the identity of the killer, I had no idea of the how and why. That was a climactic revelation that had me shedding a few tears, and not for the first time during this read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#AskNoQuestions #NetGalley
'We all get lonely. Even those of us in big houses with partners and children.'
THE AUTHOR: Claire Allan is a Northern Irish author who lives in Derry~Londonderry with her husband, two children, two cats and a very spoiled puppy.
She worked as a staff reporter for the Derry Journal for 17 years, covering a wide array of stories from court sessions, to the Saville Inquiry into the events of Bloody Sunday, health and education and human interest features.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Avon Books UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Ask No Questions by Claire Allen for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
January 21, 2021
4-5 stars
It’s the twenty fifth anniversary of the murder of eight year old Kelly Doherty looming which Jamesy Harte was convicted for though protested his innocence. Kelly’s body was discovered by twin boys Declan and Niall Heaney. Ingrid was ten at the time and is now a journalist investigating the story with a view to publishing a book. However, someone doesn’t want her on the case and as threats mount it’s clear she’s disrupted a hornets nest. The story is told from 1994 and 2019 and from the perspectives of Ingrid and Declan.
This is a really good novel and shows powerfully how the murder shocked the Derry community to the core and reverberated throughout Norther Ireland. Ingrid herself says that her childhood ends with Kelly’s death and alongside Declan’s recollections it helps us to build the story. The heartbreak and grief of Kelly’s parents Bernie and Liam is described movingly but the whole Creggan and wider Derry community is affected to a greater or lesser degree and nothing is the same again. The tension really escalates as you try to work out if Jamesy has been the victim of a miscarriage of justice or if the conviction was correct. The menace builds too as does the threat to Ingrid which at times becomes terrifying and you feel her growing anxiety and fear. She’s dogged, brave and determined in her desire to get to the truth though possibly reckless. The twins perspectives are fascinating as you follow the widely different paths their lives have taken as childhood closeness is severed. As the novel reaches the dramatic and unexpected end, the tension, menace, terror and fear is palpable and you understand the depth of the violence, corruption and conspiracy which shocks you to the core.
Overall, this is a really good novel which is dark and brutal in places but is a compelling and fascinating read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the arc for an honest review.
It’s the twenty fifth anniversary of the murder of eight year old Kelly Doherty looming which Jamesy Harte was convicted for though protested his innocence. Kelly’s body was discovered by twin boys Declan and Niall Heaney. Ingrid was ten at the time and is now a journalist investigating the story with a view to publishing a book. However, someone doesn’t want her on the case and as threats mount it’s clear she’s disrupted a hornets nest. The story is told from 1994 and 2019 and from the perspectives of Ingrid and Declan.
This is a really good novel and shows powerfully how the murder shocked the Derry community to the core and reverberated throughout Norther Ireland. Ingrid herself says that her childhood ends with Kelly’s death and alongside Declan’s recollections it helps us to build the story. The heartbreak and grief of Kelly’s parents Bernie and Liam is described movingly but the whole Creggan and wider Derry community is affected to a greater or lesser degree and nothing is the same again. The tension really escalates as you try to work out if Jamesy has been the victim of a miscarriage of justice or if the conviction was correct. The menace builds too as does the threat to Ingrid which at times becomes terrifying and you feel her growing anxiety and fear. She’s dogged, brave and determined in her desire to get to the truth though possibly reckless. The twins perspectives are fascinating as you follow the widely different paths their lives have taken as childhood closeness is severed. As the novel reaches the dramatic and unexpected end, the tension, menace, terror and fear is palpable and you understand the depth of the violence, corruption and conspiracy which shocks you to the core.
Overall, this is a really good novel which is dark and brutal in places but is a compelling and fascinating read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the arc for an honest review.
September 27, 2021
Ok mystery, decent read but nothing spectacular.
On the 25th anniversary of the abduction and murder of eight-year-old Kelly Doherty, journalist Ingrid Devilin, who was at school with Kelly, wants to write a tribute piece about the crime. She's also not convinced that the man who was convicted of her murder, Jamesy Harte, was actually guilty, and also wants to re-interview those who were involved in order to see if it is true. At the top of her list for interviews are twins Niall and Declan, the boys who found the body. Her editor, Ryan Murray, doesn't want her stirring up trouble for the family and the village. As Ingrid begins to talk to people, a series of disturbing things start occurring, making her believe that she is on the right track, as dangerous as it might be.
Overall, this is a fine mystery. Things are unveiled at the right times, the tale flows well, and the solution is acceptable. For me, however, since I read a large number of mystery and suspense novels, this one was not all that new or inventive. Yet, it's a solid story, Claire Allan is an excellent writer and she includes atmospheric details and everything is plausible.
If you like mysteries about long-ago crimes being reinvestigated to find the truth, this is a book well worth reading.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
On the 25th anniversary of the abduction and murder of eight-year-old Kelly Doherty, journalist Ingrid Devilin, who was at school with Kelly, wants to write a tribute piece about the crime. She's also not convinced that the man who was convicted of her murder, Jamesy Harte, was actually guilty, and also wants to re-interview those who were involved in order to see if it is true. At the top of her list for interviews are twins Niall and Declan, the boys who found the body. Her editor, Ryan Murray, doesn't want her stirring up trouble for the family and the village. As Ingrid begins to talk to people, a series of disturbing things start occurring, making her believe that she is on the right track, as dangerous as it might be.
Overall, this is a fine mystery. Things are unveiled at the right times, the tale flows well, and the solution is acceptable. For me, however, since I read a large number of mystery and suspense novels, this one was not all that new or inventive. Yet, it's a solid story, Claire Allan is an excellent writer and she includes atmospheric details and everything is plausible.
If you like mysteries about long-ago crimes being reinvestigated to find the truth, this is a book well worth reading.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
January 15, 2021
I saw a friend’s review for this and thought it sounded really good - and so it was! Set in Northern Ireland in 2019 with flashbacks to 1994 it tells a tragic tale of the death of a young girl and the ripples that such a tragedy can send right through a community... and through time itself. In 1994 eight year old Kelly Doherty was out with her friends trick or treating at Halloween. Somehow she got separated from them and was found dead 3 days later by ten old twins Declan and Niall Heaney. A local man Jamesy Harte was convicted of the murder and served 18 years in prison.
Ten year old Ingrid Devlin was also out and about that night. In the present day she is a reporter with The Chronicle at Derry and is asked to do a puff piece for the 25th anniversary of the death of young Kelly. Her editor, Ryan Murray, doesn’t want any controversy or the parents of the dead girl being bothered with invasive questions. But Ingrid wants to do this properly. In any case, there may be another book deal in the offing so she figures she’ll ask away and then decide what to share with her boss later.
But it’s not long before Ingrid gets a not very subtle warning. And that’s only the beginning. She has also been talking to both Declan and Niall Heaney and she is starting to think that people are hiding things from her. Somebody doesn’t want the old coals raked over. With an escalating sense of danger can Ingrid solve the puzzle before she, too, is muzzled?
So all that stuff was pretty standard whodunnit, although very well done. What made the book shine for me was the way the author described the life sucking grief the parents were going through. We’ve all read scenes of grief but this time I really had the feels. It was like she really got into the heads of her characters. There was also the anger. And the fear. All the emotions were so sharp and well defined. When Ingrid was having a panic attack it was pitch perfect - I should know, I’ve had them too.
So what really happened that night? That’s a good question. Our unreliable narrators were, well, unreliable and with some unexpected twists thrown in it is not easy to guess the outcome of this one. It wasn’t creepy per se but as it proceeded I was feeling increasingly uncomfortable about pretty much everything and even yelled to my iPad - “no, don’t go there with him”. This book should appeal to those who like a taut thriller and a little bit of fear! Many thanks to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Claire Allan for providing a copy for me to review. My opinions are my own.
Ten year old Ingrid Devlin was also out and about that night. In the present day she is a reporter with The Chronicle at Derry and is asked to do a puff piece for the 25th anniversary of the death of young Kelly. Her editor, Ryan Murray, doesn’t want any controversy or the parents of the dead girl being bothered with invasive questions. But Ingrid wants to do this properly. In any case, there may be another book deal in the offing so she figures she’ll ask away and then decide what to share with her boss later.
But it’s not long before Ingrid gets a not very subtle warning. And that’s only the beginning. She has also been talking to both Declan and Niall Heaney and she is starting to think that people are hiding things from her. Somebody doesn’t want the old coals raked over. With an escalating sense of danger can Ingrid solve the puzzle before she, too, is muzzled?
So all that stuff was pretty standard whodunnit, although very well done. What made the book shine for me was the way the author described the life sucking grief the parents were going through. We’ve all read scenes of grief but this time I really had the feels. It was like she really got into the heads of her characters. There was also the anger. And the fear. All the emotions were so sharp and well defined. When Ingrid was having a panic attack it was pitch perfect - I should know, I’ve had them too.
So what really happened that night? That’s a good question. Our unreliable narrators were, well, unreliable and with some unexpected twists thrown in it is not easy to guess the outcome of this one. It wasn’t creepy per se but as it proceeded I was feeling increasingly uncomfortable about pretty much everything and even yelled to my iPad - “no, don’t go there with him”. This book should appeal to those who like a taut thriller and a little bit of fear! Many thanks to Netgalley, Avon Books UK and Claire Allan for providing a copy for me to review. My opinions are my own.
December 12, 2020
Oh I do love a Claire Allan thriller! Ask No Questions had me hooked right from the beginning and that ending! I thought I had it all worked out but there is always that twist you don't anticipate with this author - I love it.
Ingrid Devlin is a reporter and sets out to do a story on the anniversary of the murder of Kelly Doherty. Kelly was just a girl when she was found murdered in Ingrid's home town. They were in the same class at school and the research brings her back to her home village. The man convicted of killing her has now been released from prison and is claiming to be innocent still after all these years. The more she investigates, the more Ingrid starts to believe him. But somebody doesn't want her looking into the case and her life is threatened. Who wants to stop the truth from coming out ?
A fantastic, fast read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Thanks to Avon Books UK for my advanced copy of this book to read.
Ingrid Devlin is a reporter and sets out to do a story on the anniversary of the murder of Kelly Doherty. Kelly was just a girl when she was found murdered in Ingrid's home town. They were in the same class at school and the research brings her back to her home village. The man convicted of killing her has now been released from prison and is claiming to be innocent still after all these years. The more she investigates, the more Ingrid starts to believe him. But somebody doesn't want her looking into the case and her life is threatened. Who wants to stop the truth from coming out ?
A fantastic, fast read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Thanks to Avon Books UK for my advanced copy of this book to read.
February 14, 2021
In a small village in Northern Ireland on Halloween Night, it is the year 1994 when the "Boogeyman" came to call and a small child named Kelly went missing and a few days later her body was found by two young boys who had been school mates of Kelly and from that point on the traumatized boys lives were never the same. The people in the village never healed from the brutal crime either, even though the murderer (Jamesy Harte) had been convicted and sent to prison although he always claimed his innocence of the murder.
Fast forward twenty-five years later, the local newspaper reporter Ingrid Devlin is writing an anniversary story about little Kelly's horrific murder and as she digs deeper into the case, strange and dangerous incidents keep occurring to and around her and it's obvious someone does not want this story brought out in the open again. As Ingrid keeps digging, she discovers many secrets and lies being kept from her including secrets from her boss. What really happened on that fatal Halloween night? Why is Ingrid being stalked and will she be able to find out the truth before someone decides that Ingrid needs to die as well!
I really enjoyed this very dark, gritty and well-written story by Claire Allan. The storytelling and the writing style were so well done with showing how a village bands together to protect their own but also how many secrets can also be held back by so many peop!e at the risk of hurting innocent people. If you want to read a good mystery with great writing, don't hesitate to pick this book up because it is a real page-turner and I highly recommend it to any mystery lover!
I want to thank the publisher "Avon Books UK" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this terrific story and any thoughts and opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this dark and emotional book a rating of 4 Captivating 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars!!
Fast forward twenty-five years later, the local newspaper reporter Ingrid Devlin is writing an anniversary story about little Kelly's horrific murder and as she digs deeper into the case, strange and dangerous incidents keep occurring to and around her and it's obvious someone does not want this story brought out in the open again. As Ingrid keeps digging, she discovers many secrets and lies being kept from her including secrets from her boss. What really happened on that fatal Halloween night? Why is Ingrid being stalked and will she be able to find out the truth before someone decides that Ingrid needs to die as well!
I really enjoyed this very dark, gritty and well-written story by Claire Allan. The storytelling and the writing style were so well done with showing how a village bands together to protect their own but also how many secrets can also be held back by so many peop!e at the risk of hurting innocent people. If you want to read a good mystery with great writing, don't hesitate to pick this book up because it is a real page-turner and I highly recommend it to any mystery lover!
I want to thank the publisher "Avon Books UK" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this terrific story and any thoughts and opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this dark and emotional book a rating of 4 Captivating 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars!!
November 23, 2020
“The bogeyman we had always been told was just make-believe stalked our streets.”
I was thrilled when I received an invitation to read “Ask No Questions”. Every book I’ve read by her has been fab! And this was another hit for Ms. Allan! It was dark and gripping, with plenty of twists and turns to keep me reading! It was hard to put down once I hit the halfway point...packed with plenty of questionable characters to raise suspicion and surprise twists that make the ending unpredictable!
Ingrid is a writer for a local paper and portrays a journalist in a favorable light. Although very determined and ambitious, she’s still caring and empathetic. A very likable character, as she writes a sensitive piece about a young local girl, that was abducted on Halloween night, twenty-five years earlier. If only the media today was this compassionate and honest!
I do have to say, I wouldn’t have been a child at risk in this thriller. There’s no way I would have ventured out on a cold Halloween night, only for nuts and apples! I was spoiled by the “Americanized” Halloween.
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Allan and Avon Books UK, for this free digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
My Rating: 4 ⭐️’s
Published: January 21st 2021 by Avon Books UK
Pages: 336
Recommend: Yes
@ClaireAllan @AvonBooksUK @NetGalley
#NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview
#AskNoQuestions #MustRead #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #NetGalley #ThanksPublishers
After publication, my reviews can be found:
Amazon: my link text
Twitter: href="https://mobile.twitter.com/takemeaway... link text
BN.com, BookBub
I was thrilled when I received an invitation to read “Ask No Questions”. Every book I’ve read by her has been fab! And this was another hit for Ms. Allan! It was dark and gripping, with plenty of twists and turns to keep me reading! It was hard to put down once I hit the halfway point...packed with plenty of questionable characters to raise suspicion and surprise twists that make the ending unpredictable!
Ingrid is a writer for a local paper and portrays a journalist in a favorable light. Although very determined and ambitious, she’s still caring and empathetic. A very likable character, as she writes a sensitive piece about a young local girl, that was abducted on Halloween night, twenty-five years earlier. If only the media today was this compassionate and honest!
I do have to say, I wouldn’t have been a child at risk in this thriller. There’s no way I would have ventured out on a cold Halloween night, only for nuts and apples! I was spoiled by the “Americanized” Halloween.
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Allan and Avon Books UK, for this free digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
My Rating: 4 ⭐️’s
Published: January 21st 2021 by Avon Books UK
Pages: 336
Recommend: Yes
@ClaireAllan @AvonBooksUK @NetGalley
#NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview
#AskNoQuestions #MustRead #BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #NetGalley #ThanksPublishers
After publication, my reviews can be found:
Amazon: my link text
Twitter: href="https://mobile.twitter.com/takemeaway... link text
BN.com, BookBub
January 17, 2021
Twenty five years ago on Halloween night eight year old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends. Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her classmates.
Now, journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating - but someone doesn't want her to know the truth.
From early on i had a good idea where this story was going. I also knew who the villain was. Clever old me i thought, but i was wrong. I really had no idea at all when it was all revealed and i never saw any of it coming. This is a cleverly crafted story. There's plenty of twists and red herrings in this dark and chilling read. This is one of my favourite books by the author. I loved it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #AvonBooksUK and the author #ClaireAllan for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Now, journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating - but someone doesn't want her to know the truth.
From early on i had a good idea where this story was going. I also knew who the villain was. Clever old me i thought, but i was wrong. I really had no idea at all when it was all revealed and i never saw any of it coming. This is a cleverly crafted story. There's plenty of twists and red herrings in this dark and chilling read. This is one of my favourite books by the author. I loved it.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #AvonBooksUK and the author #ClaireAllan for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2021
This is a book about ‘righting a wrong’
25 years ago 8 year old Kelly was murdered, the culprit was caught and put away but now on the anniversary and also with his freedom he is starting to once again protest his innocence
Journo Ingrid kinda has a feeling he is telling the truth and starts to look into the story and the main players and realises,as her home and car are attacked, she is onto something, as she digs deeper what she finds out is bad, really bad and puts her life and others in danger
Claire Allan writes great books and this is no exception, told by various characters it is easy to follow and although a heart wrenching story is also a book to ‘lose yourself in’, which for all of us is a bonus at the moment, as you are led past and present through the case/story and find out what really happened to Kelly
Not much else to say other than a really good involving read
9/10
5 Stars
25 years ago 8 year old Kelly was murdered, the culprit was caught and put away but now on the anniversary and also with his freedom he is starting to once again protest his innocence
Journo Ingrid kinda has a feeling he is telling the truth and starts to look into the story and the main players and realises,as her home and car are attacked, she is onto something, as she digs deeper what she finds out is bad, really bad and puts her life and others in danger
Claire Allan writes great books and this is no exception, told by various characters it is easy to follow and although a heart wrenching story is also a book to ‘lose yourself in’, which for all of us is a bonus at the moment, as you are led past and present through the case/story and find out what really happened to Kelly
Not much else to say other than a really good involving read
9/10
5 Stars
January 22, 2021
This wasn’t my favourite read by Allan as I do think it lost momentum after the initial intrigue. I was excited by the premise of Ingrid investigating the anniversary of a murdered child. Ingrid herself has been haunted by memories of what happened twenty-five years ago, but it seems like someone in the community does not want her to re-open the past.
Very early on in the story, Ingrid appears to be threatened by someone who does not want her to re-tell the story of Kelly’s death. With Kelly’s accused perpetrator already released from prison, Ingrid is worried for her own safety. However, as Ingrid gathers more material for her newspaper report/potential book, the threats start to increase. Despite this, I did not get a sense of danger for Ingrid and found the masked threats a little lack-lustre, especially as they seemed to mostly focus on damaging her car.
As crime thrillers go, this was ok but not the best I have read recently. Ingrid, not deterred by the threats to her report and even the violence towards Kelly’s father, continues to ask questions. Based on some of the other characters’ questionable behaviour, I was disappointed to realise that I had partly guessed the outcome of the novel. I think because the cast of characters is reasonably small, there was a higher chance of getting it right – it definitely doesn’t happen too often!
This book is all about keeping Ingrid quiet. But, with her “reporter’s nose”, she is determined to get to the truth, regardless of the warnings. The narrative switches between Ingrid’s perspective and Declan’s – one of the boys who found Kelly’s body that fateful night. I did not feel like I sympathised with either character, even though it is evident that Declan is in the depths of despair. I’m not sure if this was due to characterisation or because I found the plot itself a bit lack-lustre.
My second crime book from this author, I think this was not her best. It’s got all the good ingredients for a crime/thriller, but I just don’t think it was as gripping as it could be. There were not enough questions being raised, even when the violence and threats start to increase over the story.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Very early on in the story, Ingrid appears to be threatened by someone who does not want her to re-tell the story of Kelly’s death. With Kelly’s accused perpetrator already released from prison, Ingrid is worried for her own safety. However, as Ingrid gathers more material for her newspaper report/potential book, the threats start to increase. Despite this, I did not get a sense of danger for Ingrid and found the masked threats a little lack-lustre, especially as they seemed to mostly focus on damaging her car.
As crime thrillers go, this was ok but not the best I have read recently. Ingrid, not deterred by the threats to her report and even the violence towards Kelly’s father, continues to ask questions. Based on some of the other characters’ questionable behaviour, I was disappointed to realise that I had partly guessed the outcome of the novel. I think because the cast of characters is reasonably small, there was a higher chance of getting it right – it definitely doesn’t happen too often!
This book is all about keeping Ingrid quiet. But, with her “reporter’s nose”, she is determined to get to the truth, regardless of the warnings. The narrative switches between Ingrid’s perspective and Declan’s – one of the boys who found Kelly’s body that fateful night. I did not feel like I sympathised with either character, even though it is evident that Declan is in the depths of despair. I’m not sure if this was due to characterisation or because I found the plot itself a bit lack-lustre.
My second crime book from this author, I think this was not her best. It’s got all the good ingredients for a crime/thriller, but I just don’t think it was as gripping as it could be. There were not enough questions being raised, even when the violence and threats start to increase over the story.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2020
I do love Claire Allan’s books, so I was very excited to get started on this one!!
Ingrid Devlin a journalist returns home to do an anniversary special on the murder of Kelly Doherty, who was murdered 35 years ago when she was 8, whilst she was out trick or treating with friends.
The man who was convicted of her murder has now been released from prison and is declaring his innocence. As Ingrid starts to investigate, she also believes his innocence. But someone out there does not want her digging into the investigation and will stop at nothing to keep the past well and truly buried.
I loved this book, it’s twists keeping me well and truly hooked. I was kept guessing until the end, every time I thought I knew who the murderer was there was another twist!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Ingrid Devlin a journalist returns home to do an anniversary special on the murder of Kelly Doherty, who was murdered 35 years ago when she was 8, whilst she was out trick or treating with friends.
The man who was convicted of her murder has now been released from prison and is declaring his innocence. As Ingrid starts to investigate, she also believes his innocence. But someone out there does not want her digging into the investigation and will stop at nothing to keep the past well and truly buried.
I loved this book, it’s twists keeping me well and truly hooked. I was kept guessing until the end, every time I thought I knew who the murderer was there was another twist!!
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
November 29, 2020
It’s the twenty-five-year anniversary of Kelly Doherty’s death. The Eight-year-old was found murdered at a reservoir in Derry on the eve of Halloween. Where twins Niall and Declan found her.
Present day Ingrid Devlin an aspiring journalist, is writing a piece on her death. Did the man who was convicted of her murder, really kill her? The man in question Jamesy Harte spent 17 years behind bars for her murder now released after eight years. Ingrid was a child in Derry and lived in the same town when it happened and knows the people involved. So, it is kind of personal to her. But her boss Ryan Murphy keeps telling her to leave it well alone. Nothing good will come of it. So why all the secrecy?
I always excited to hear Clare Allan’s has another book out. I have read her previous books and really enjoyed them and this one does not disappoint. Ask no questions is a slow building and dark gripping thriller with twists and turns, that keep you on your toes throughout. I thought I had it all figured out who the culprit was but once again she had that twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. 5 stars from me.
Present day Ingrid Devlin an aspiring journalist, is writing a piece on her death. Did the man who was convicted of her murder, really kill her? The man in question Jamesy Harte spent 17 years behind bars for her murder now released after eight years. Ingrid was a child in Derry and lived in the same town when it happened and knows the people involved. So, it is kind of personal to her. But her boss Ryan Murphy keeps telling her to leave it well alone. Nothing good will come of it. So why all the secrecy?
I always excited to hear Clare Allan’s has another book out. I have read her previous books and really enjoyed them and this one does not disappoint. Ask no questions is a slow building and dark gripping thriller with twists and turns, that keep you on your toes throughout. I thought I had it all figured out who the culprit was but once again she had that twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. 5 stars from me.
September 14, 2025
Set in the Northern Irish town of Derry, this story begins with the horrific and senseless murder of 8-year-old Kelly Doherty on Halloween night which rocked the local community to its core. Fast forward 25 years later and Ingrid Devlin, who was also a local child at the time of the murder, is now an eager journalist looking to shed light on Kelly’s case on the 25th Anniversary of her death. However the further Ingrid digs, the clearer it becomes that there are people who will stop at nothing to keep the missing details buried.
January 30, 2021
Local Derry woman and journalist Ingrind wants to write a piece centred around the 25th anniversary of local girl Kelly Doherty's murder. Ingrind remembers the inciendent very well like her and many other local children at the time her childhood was forever impacted by her death. Declan and his twin Neil had been playing in their den upon walking home they had found Kelly's body. Declan's life was forever scared by the images of that day.
Ingrind is our lead protagonist and she seems to have ruffled some feathers by wanting to write this piece. The guy Jamese who had been committed of the girls murder, now claims his innocence. Ingrind finds herself believing him. But by pursuing the story she is putting her life in danger. I found her character to be a bit hard headed at first although I was proven wrong the more I got to know her. She seems to be more effected by Kelly's murder than we first realise. She is a career woman and seems to have very low moral standards, but I still liked her. She is a very strong female lead and even when she knows she should walk away she decides to not let fear rule her.
Majority of the chapters are from Ingrind's point of view and the rest are from Declan's. Declan happens to bump into Ingrind and the trauma is written all over him. I liked Declan to start but then he becomes a bit weird and pervy which was a shame because I didn't think his character called for that. Life has clearly beat him down and he had completely given up on himself. He holds secrets he has never told which clearly attribute to his poor state of affairs. There are still some unanswered questions I have surrounding Declan but nothing major enough it took away from his prose.
I loved the psychologically crime thriller elements about this book, it is all go from the begining and builds up nicely to it's conclusion. We honestly aren't given any hints surrounding who is out to get Ingrind and that's what left me on the edge of my seat. I flew through this book because I wanted to know how it all tied in together.
The book is written well and is told in third person. I enjoyed the back and forth between Ingrind and Declan and appreciated the fact this was Ingrind's story to be told and thats why we hear her story more frequently. Another element of the written which is done so well is the use of Irish slang, if you have never been to Ireland or spoken to an Irish person some sentences will make no sense, but reading just reminded me of having a good old chat with some of my Irish friends I love that it isn't just set in Derry but written in perfect English. It was honestly great and did not feel forced at any point.
In summary I loved this book another great job by Claire Allan I love the way she writes. Find yourself an Irish slang dictionary before you start 😂. The character developments are great and the story build it is executed exclusively well. An easy 5 stars 🌟
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon publishers and Claire Allan for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
Ingrind is our lead protagonist and she seems to have ruffled some feathers by wanting to write this piece. The guy Jamese who had been committed of the girls murder, now claims his innocence. Ingrind finds herself believing him. But by pursuing the story she is putting her life in danger. I found her character to be a bit hard headed at first although I was proven wrong the more I got to know her. She seems to be more effected by Kelly's murder than we first realise. She is a career woman and seems to have very low moral standards, but I still liked her. She is a very strong female lead and even when she knows she should walk away she decides to not let fear rule her.
Majority of the chapters are from Ingrind's point of view and the rest are from Declan's. Declan happens to bump into Ingrind and the trauma is written all over him. I liked Declan to start but then he becomes a bit weird and pervy which was a shame because I didn't think his character called for that. Life has clearly beat him down and he had completely given up on himself. He holds secrets he has never told which clearly attribute to his poor state of affairs. There are still some unanswered questions I have surrounding Declan but nothing major enough it took away from his prose.
I loved the psychologically crime thriller elements about this book, it is all go from the begining and builds up nicely to it's conclusion. We honestly aren't given any hints surrounding who is out to get Ingrind and that's what left me on the edge of my seat. I flew through this book because I wanted to know how it all tied in together.
The book is written well and is told in third person. I enjoyed the back and forth between Ingrind and Declan and appreciated the fact this was Ingrind's story to be told and thats why we hear her story more frequently. Another element of the written which is done so well is the use of Irish slang, if you have never been to Ireland or spoken to an Irish person some sentences will make no sense, but reading just reminded me of having a good old chat with some of my Irish friends I love that it isn't just set in Derry but written in perfect English. It was honestly great and did not feel forced at any point.
In summary I loved this book another great job by Claire Allan I love the way she writes. Find yourself an Irish slang dictionary before you start 😂. The character developments are great and the story build it is executed exclusively well. An easy 5 stars 🌟
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon publishers and Claire Allan for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinion.
December 11, 2020
This book was a slow-burner. It started off well, sent shivers down my spine most of the way through but, halfway through it seemed to loose pace a little and it didn’t really pick up. Although the book was slow I did enjoy it. It was creepy and made me feel cold, there was a lot of descriptions about rain and bit old which, didn’t help. The book kept me guessing who did the murder so that was. A twist at the end.
March 18, 2021
Wow…I read this book in one sitting. I just could not put it down. Claire Allen never disappoints, that’s why she is one of my favourite authors.
A twisty thriller with a fantastic plot and well developed characters with each page bringing new revelations. I was completely gripped and lost in the story. Every time I thought I had it figured out, it took a different turn.
Ingrid Devlin, a journalist in Derry is reporting on the 25th anniversary of the murder of local 8-year-old, Kelly Doherty. However, the story is personal for Ingrid, as she was there trick or treating that night too. Ingrid finds herself being increasingly drawn into an investigation that goes deeper than she could have imagined but someone isn’t happy with her digging up the past… who and why?
A fast paced, tense, brilliant read.
A twisty thriller with a fantastic plot and well developed characters with each page bringing new revelations. I was completely gripped and lost in the story. Every time I thought I had it figured out, it took a different turn.
Ingrid Devlin, a journalist in Derry is reporting on the 25th anniversary of the murder of local 8-year-old, Kelly Doherty. However, the story is personal for Ingrid, as she was there trick or treating that night too. Ingrid finds herself being increasingly drawn into an investigation that goes deeper than she could have imagined but someone isn’t happy with her digging up the past… who and why?
A fast paced, tense, brilliant read.
February 11, 2021
Was ok . I’ve read better books from this author
February 17, 2021
What a cracking read! Ingrid, the main character a journalist with a nose for story, is reporting on the 25th anniversary of the killing of eight year old Kelly who was murdered on Halloween night. However this story is personal for Ingrid, as she was there trick or treating that night too.
With short, snappy chapters that make this a fast paced, tense read we are lead down some twisty, dangerous paths with Ingrid. Ingrid makes some brave/foolhardy choices that gave me anxiety, but also made me respect her dedication in seeking the truth.
It gave me the creeps, had shivers of fear running up and down my spine, and I really appreciated how well plotted this book was. The Derry setting was a treat also.
Highly recommended!
With short, snappy chapters that make this a fast paced, tense read we are lead down some twisty, dangerous paths with Ingrid. Ingrid makes some brave/foolhardy choices that gave me anxiety, but also made me respect her dedication in seeking the truth.
It gave me the creeps, had shivers of fear running up and down my spine, and I really appreciated how well plotted this book was. The Derry setting was a treat also.
Highly recommended!
November 28, 2020
Ask No Questions by Claire Allan is a thrilling whodunit that kept me guessing up until the very end. I have previously loved Ms Allan's novels, and this latest proves no exception.
Ingrid Devlin is a reporter who is called back to her hometown of Derry to write a piece marking the twenty-fifth anniversary of the death of Kelly Doherty, found murdered when she was only eight years old. As a child herself at the time, Ingrid well remembers the fear and paranoia that pervaded the town, and it seems that the crime has had a long lasting impact on all who remember it. As Ingrid stirs up the case once again, it is very apparent that there are those in Derry who would prefer that it remain firmly buried in the past.
This is a well-paced and compelling thriller, unfurling just enough threads throughout the narrative to reel the reader in to a shocking, yet satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed getting to know Ingrid Devlin, a reporter who will stop at nothing in her pursuit of the truth, and would love to see her again in a future novel. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC.
Ingrid Devlin is a reporter who is called back to her hometown of Derry to write a piece marking the twenty-fifth anniversary of the death of Kelly Doherty, found murdered when she was only eight years old. As a child herself at the time, Ingrid well remembers the fear and paranoia that pervaded the town, and it seems that the crime has had a long lasting impact on all who remember it. As Ingrid stirs up the case once again, it is very apparent that there are those in Derry who would prefer that it remain firmly buried in the past.
This is a well-paced and compelling thriller, unfurling just enough threads throughout the narrative to reel the reader in to a shocking, yet satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed getting to know Ingrid Devlin, a reporter who will stop at nothing in her pursuit of the truth, and would love to see her again in a future novel. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC.
January 13, 2021
Great twists, shocking ending!
The tragic death of eight year old Kelly Doherty is about to reach the 25th anniversary. Ingrid and her classmates carry the affects every day.
1994 in Derry, Ireland a young girl goes missing Halloween night. Children no longer allowed to play in the neighborhood, free to roam - parents strictly telling their kids to come home right after school.
Twins Declan and Niall are restless - they head into the woods to their fort to let go of some energy. They trail the reservoir- and stumble upon Kelly's body.
The 25th anniversary is looming - journalist Ingrid wants to write a story, about her neighbor Kelly, her parents. Her editor insists she keep it short- but Ingrid wants to talk to convicted killer, Jamesy, who is still crying his innocence.
As Ingrid attempts to write her story, she becomes a target- her car window smashed, her apartment broken into. What really happened to Kelly?
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon, Harper Collins Publishers for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The tragic death of eight year old Kelly Doherty is about to reach the 25th anniversary. Ingrid and her classmates carry the affects every day.
1994 in Derry, Ireland a young girl goes missing Halloween night. Children no longer allowed to play in the neighborhood, free to roam - parents strictly telling their kids to come home right after school.
Twins Declan and Niall are restless - they head into the woods to their fort to let go of some energy. They trail the reservoir- and stumble upon Kelly's body.
The 25th anniversary is looming - journalist Ingrid wants to write a story, about her neighbor Kelly, her parents. Her editor insists she keep it short- but Ingrid wants to talk to convicted killer, Jamesy, who is still crying his innocence.
As Ingrid attempts to write her story, she becomes a target- her car window smashed, her apartment broken into. What really happened to Kelly?
Thank you to Netgalley, Avon, Harper Collins Publishers for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2021
A great read from Claire Allan.
Ingrid wants to do an article for the paper she works on about the murder of eight year old Kelly that happened twenty five years ago.
Ingrid was a child in the same area at the time and remembers it well.
Her boss wants her to do an anniversary piece but Ingrid wants to talk to the man who says he was wrongfully in-prisoned for her murder.
Ingrid’s car and flat get vandalised and she receives threatening notes to stop her investigations and she starts to feel worried.
Someone else linked to the murder is attacked and Ingrid’s car is vandalised again so it seems someone has something to hide.
I didn’t work out who the real murderer was and liked the way it was revealed and the resulting consequences.
Thanks to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Ingrid wants to do an article for the paper she works on about the murder of eight year old Kelly that happened twenty five years ago.
Ingrid was a child in the same area at the time and remembers it well.
Her boss wants her to do an anniversary piece but Ingrid wants to talk to the man who says he was wrongfully in-prisoned for her murder.
Ingrid’s car and flat get vandalised and she receives threatening notes to stop her investigations and she starts to feel worried.
Someone else linked to the murder is attacked and Ingrid’s car is vandalised again so it seems someone has something to hide.
I didn’t work out who the real murderer was and liked the way it was revealed and the resulting consequences.
Thanks to Avon Books UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 11, 2021
It was too slow and not much happened. The things that did happen, I could see a mile off. Will still try her other books.
January 25, 2021
Twenty-five years ago, on Halloween night, eight-year-old Kelly Doherty went missing while out trick or treating with friends.
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating – but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
I love books with plots that include investigating some cold case. So, this book was perfect for me and I did enjoy reading it,
The writing and the narration were so good that I was engaged throughout. All the characters were all so mysterious that I had a hard time guessing who was the killer.
I think Ingrid’s investigation was spot on. She was definitely asking the right questions and following the right leads which did result in endangering her life. Though I did feel, it was foolish of her of not informing the police in spite of the repeated acts of vandalism.
There were surprises and twists throughout the plot. But I was more interested in reading how the lives of the different characters involved had changed after Kelly’s death. All of these events tied up to an exciting ending, which was quite dramatic but also tension-filled.
Thank You NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC!
Her body was found three days later, floating face down, on the banks of the Creggan Reservoir by two of her young classmates.
It was a crime that rocked Derry to the core. Journalist Ingrid Devlin is investigating – but someone doesn’t want her to know the truth. As she digs further, Ingrid starts to realise that the Doherty family are not as they seem. But will she expose what really happened that night before it’s too late?
I love books with plots that include investigating some cold case. So, this book was perfect for me and I did enjoy reading it,
The writing and the narration were so good that I was engaged throughout. All the characters were all so mysterious that I had a hard time guessing who was the killer.
I think Ingrid’s investigation was spot on. She was definitely asking the right questions and following the right leads which did result in endangering her life. Though I did feel, it was foolish of her of not informing the police in spite of the repeated acts of vandalism.
There were surprises and twists throughout the plot. But I was more interested in reading how the lives of the different characters involved had changed after Kelly’s death. All of these events tied up to an exciting ending, which was quite dramatic but also tension-filled.
Thank You NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC!
May 31, 2021
An interesting storyline where the author had me hooked from the very beginning. The suspense started off well with the writing giving a sense of danger. Emotions were high as the killer was closer to being unmasked. Overall, it was a fun read.
January 3, 2021
Review to follow...
December 5, 2020
My third book by Claire Allan and this was my favourite one so far although I am sure I will say that about any future books as she really is a most talented author. The plot was extremely well crafted and I loved the main character of Ingrid Devlin she was so likeable and she just never gave up as she was determined to get to the bottom of the murder of Kelly Doherty who was killed when they were both children. Twenty five years on and Ingrid is a journalist covering the anniversary of the the murder and beginning to wonder wonder if the man who was convicted for the murder and has just been released really did it, then things take a nasty turn and Ingrid finds herself being targeted her car and flat vandalised and she begins to fear for her safety.
Well the plot just thickens from then on and races along at a fair old pace, full of suspicious characters I just couldn’t put the kindle down !!
Loads of twists and secrets kept me guessing and I have to say I didn’t figure out the ending making it a great read and I look forward to reading the next book from Claire Allan and I can highly recommend this one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Well the plot just thickens from then on and races along at a fair old pace, full of suspicious characters I just couldn’t put the kindle down !!
Loads of twists and secrets kept me guessing and I have to say I didn’t figure out the ending making it a great read and I look forward to reading the next book from Claire Allan and I can highly recommend this one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 9, 2022
I've read most of Claire Allan's previous books and while I enjoyed this one it certainly wasn't a favourite of mine.
As with all her books, I enjoyed the Ireland setting. As always, I enjoyed the writing style too.
The main issue I had with this book was the plot. It seemed to lack any substance or depth.
There wasn't many twists or turns. There wasn't that many shocks either. Although, it was still quite a dark thriller which I enjoyed.
The synopsis said the book was set around Halloween. I love Halloween, but this wasn't a big part of the stories plot- I wish it was.
As with all her books, they are quick and easy thrillers to read but this one seemed to lack something and is unlikely to be memorable.
Overall, I recommend if you enjoy thrillers but it's certainly not the best thriller I have ever read.
As with all her books, I enjoyed the Ireland setting. As always, I enjoyed the writing style too.
The main issue I had with this book was the plot. It seemed to lack any substance or depth.
There wasn't many twists or turns. There wasn't that many shocks either. Although, it was still quite a dark thriller which I enjoyed.
The synopsis said the book was set around Halloween. I love Halloween, but this wasn't a big part of the stories plot- I wish it was.
As with all her books, they are quick and easy thrillers to read but this one seemed to lack something and is unlikely to be memorable.
Overall, I recommend if you enjoy thrillers but it's certainly not the best thriller I have ever read.
January 13, 2021
Finished reading: January 7th 2021
"I'm scared. I'm tired. And angry. I'm just doing my job. Why can't people realise that?"
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Avon Books UK in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
March 5, 2021
My fourth read by Claire Allan was just as enthralling as the other three.
In Ask No Questions it's Halloween in 1994 and eight-year-old Kelly Doherty, aged 8, is out trick or treating with friends when she vanishes. Later, twin boys Declan and Niall Heaney discover her body and this leads to the conviction of Jamesy Harte, though he protests his innocence. Moving on to the present, and journalist Ingrid is researching the details of the murder with her eye on publishing a book. But someone isn't keen on her investigating the past...
This was an excellent, darkly plotted novel from Claire Allan and I relished every moment of it. The story is told from both timescales, 1994 and 2019 and from the perspectives of Ingrid and Declan. The author's characterisation is very good and Ingrid's input helps the reader to build a clear picture of the story. The grief of Bernie and Liam (Kelly's parents) is movingly portrayed and the way Kelly's murder affected the community of the Creggan estate and Derry in Ireland was well conveyed. As the story unfolded the tension gradually intensified and I enjoyed trying to figure out whether or not there had been a miscarriage of justice in this taut and gritty tale, a task made difficult by the unreliability of the narrators. Ask No Questions is a terrific read which will certainly appeal to fans of Claire Allan and I would recommend it to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Avon Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In Ask No Questions it's Halloween in 1994 and eight-year-old Kelly Doherty, aged 8, is out trick or treating with friends when she vanishes. Later, twin boys Declan and Niall Heaney discover her body and this leads to the conviction of Jamesy Harte, though he protests his innocence. Moving on to the present, and journalist Ingrid is researching the details of the murder with her eye on publishing a book. But someone isn't keen on her investigating the past...
This was an excellent, darkly plotted novel from Claire Allan and I relished every moment of it. The story is told from both timescales, 1994 and 2019 and from the perspectives of Ingrid and Declan. The author's characterisation is very good and Ingrid's input helps the reader to build a clear picture of the story. The grief of Bernie and Liam (Kelly's parents) is movingly portrayed and the way Kelly's murder affected the community of the Creggan estate and Derry in Ireland was well conveyed. As the story unfolded the tension gradually intensified and I enjoyed trying to figure out whether or not there had been a miscarriage of justice in this taut and gritty tale, a task made difficult by the unreliability of the narrators. Ask No Questions is a terrific read which will certainly appeal to fans of Claire Allan and I would recommend it to everyone.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Avon Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
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