A Song of Isolation

by Michael J. Malone

In this breathtakingly brutal and intensely topical psychological thriller, a man is accused of child sexual abuse, and his life and that of his actress girlfriend are thrown into turmoil…

‘Malone is the master of twists, turns and the unexpected, with the skill to keep things grounded. So much so, that the reader can picture themselves in the very circumstances described. Superb storytelling from a master of his craft’  Herald Scotland

‘Beautiful, lyrical prose takes the reader through a perfectly constructed, often harrowing tale’ Denzil Meyrick

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Film star Amelie Hart is the darling of the silver screen, appearing on the front pages of every newspaper. But at the peak of her fame she throws it all away for a regular guy with an ordinary job. The gossip columns are aghast: what happened to the woman who turned heads wherever she went?

Any hope the furore will die down are crushed when Amelie’s boyfriend Dave is arrested on charges of child sexual abuse. Dave strongly asserts his innocence, and when Amelie refuses to denounce him, the press witch hunt quickly turns into physical violence, and she has to flee the country.

While Dave is locked up with the most depraved men in the country and Amelie is hiding on the continent, Damaris, the victim at the centre of the story, is isolated – a child trying to make sense of an adult world.

Breathtakingly brutal, dark and immensely moving, A Song of Isolation looks beneath the magpie glimmer of celebrity to uncover a sinister world dominated by greed and lies, and the unfathomable destruction of innocent lives … in an instant.

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Praise for Michael J. Malone

‘A beautifully written tale, original, engrossing and scary … a dark joy’  The Times

‘A complex and multilayered story – perfect for a wintry night’  Sunday Express

‘Vivid, visceral and compulsive’ Ian Rankin

‘A terrific read … I read it in one sitting’ Martina Cole

‘A deeply satisfying read’  Sunday Times

‘A fine, page-turning thriller’  Daily Mail

‘With each turn of the page, a more shocking detail is revealed and some of the people John thought might help him are not who they seem … The domestic noir tale is one that many families will be able to relate to … There is barely enough time to catch your’  Scotsman

‘Challenging and emotional … enthrals as it corkscrews to a shocking, yet ultimately rewarding end’ LoveReading

‘Malone’s latest is an unsettling, multi-layered and expertly paced domestic noir drama that delves into one family’s dark secrets, shame and lies’  CultureFly

‘Malone is a poet, there are wonderful lyrical passages here and very skilful storytelling. Some issues are not spoken about enough, Malone raises a couple of those issues and sensitively but realistically addresses them…’  New Books Magazine

‘Engrossing, hard-hitting – even shocking – with a light poetic frosting. Another superb read!’ Douglas Skelton

'A dark and unnerving psychological thriller that draws you deep into the lives of the characters and refuses to let go. This is a brilliantly written book; I could not put it down’ Caroline Mitchell

‘A chilling tale of the unexpected that journeys right into the dark heart of domesticity’ Marnie Riches

Genres: Crime, Psychological Thriller, Thriller, Mystery

300 pages, Paperback

First published July 17, 2020

Reviews

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A SONG OF ISOLATION is an intensely emotional psychological thriller by Michael J. Malone. This is the first novel I have read by this author and it won’t be the last. This author writes with so much passion.

The author addresses a sensitive topic with respect…the topic of child sexual abuse and its aftermath.

Film star Amelie Hart threw everything away to be with a regular guy with an ordinary job. His name was Dave Robbins, and her best friend, Lisa warned Amelie that she should move on, and kick him to the curb, as there were lots of other prospects in the winds. But Amelie chose to be with him.

But one day the police show up at their door, as they had received a complaint from neighbors, that Mr. Robbins, had touched their daughter, Damaris, inappropriately.

Any hope of any future went out the window, when Amelie’s boyfriend Dave is arrested on charges of child sexual abuse. Dave strongly asserts his innocence, and when Amelie refuses to accuse him, the press quickly turns into physical violence, and she has to flee the country.

Now we have three central characters all isolated: Dave is locked up with the most depraved men in the country, Amelie is hiding on the continent while still supporting her man, and Damaris, the victim isolated – a child trying to make sense of an adult world.

The story is told from multiple POV’s-Amelie, Dave and Damaris. Nobody is a winner here.

This was a very moving emotional psychological thriller that explores the many levels of destruction of innocent lives, in a world full of greed and lies. I was glued to this novel from beginning to end. Highly recommended.

Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️🎧📚 Addict ON HIATUS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio 5 Stars
Story 4 Stars

[Mandy White (mandylovestoread) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Song of Isolation was my last read for July and what a great book it was. This was my first book by Michael J Malone but I will definitely look out for more. It is a tough read at time, covering a sensitive subject but I think that the author has done a wonderful job.

This story is told from multiple points of view. We meet Amelie, a hollywood actress who is hiding out in Scotland. She is living with her boyfriend Dave. That is until the police come along and arrest him for child sexual abuse. The alleged victim is next door neighbour Damaris. Pleading his innocence he is charged sent to trial. Everybody that know Dave cannot believe that he would do such a thing and Amelie stands by him. We see how the accusation impacts not only Dave's life, but that of his parents, Amelie and also the young girl and her family.

Thanks to TBC on Facebook for my advanced copy of this book to read.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read a few of Michael J. Malone books now, I know that his often harrowing, hard hitting storylines are always beautifully written with a powerful passion, sympathy and conviction. His elegant prose and addictive narrative, draws the reader in from the opening sentence and doesn’t let go of the hold it has over you, until the very last line.
“A Song of Isolation” focuses on yet more emotive issues, this time dealing with sexual child abuse, a possible wrongful arrest, life in prison with hardened and depraved criminals and how life can change in an instant through intense greed and horrendous lies.
As always, Michael writes multilayered plot lines and in “A Song of Isolation” there are three main characters, who each tell their own story with an overwhelming connection. Amelie, a darling of the silver screen who after a frightening incident settled down with a regular guy (Dave) and gave up acting, Dave - who is accused of sexually abusing his eleven year old neighbour (Damaris) and is sent to prison for four years and Damaris, a young girl at the heart of everything, trying to make sense of it all in an adult’s world.
I really took to all the characters, as always you feel emotionally connected to the cast. Damaris was the star of the show for me and my heart went out to her during all her emotional issues. Amelie who you assume is a diva is actually a down to earth woman who values her privacy and the people she respects over money and fame.
This compelling, stand-alone psychological thriller from the master of story telling, is an engrossing read which portrays how lies combined with greed, can devastate lives in an instant.
Prize winning and a number one bestseller, Michael J. Malone writes from the heart and I’d have no hesitation in recommending his deeply emotive novels.

4.5 stars

[Linda Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelie one was a rising film star, but then threw it all away to be with a regular guy. Dave is a great guy ... he has an ordinary job with dreams of something else in the future.

Both their lives forever change when a neighbor accuses Dave of sexually abusing her young daughter. Dave is innocent of these charges, but is arrested and jailed immediately. The girl's uncle is a higher-up with law enforcement.

Amelie stands by her man .. everyone who really knows Dave knows he is not guilty of these charges. It's more a case of guilty unless proven innocent.

While Dave is in prison, Amelie flees the country but continues to support Dave every way she can. And Demaris ... the young girl at the center of this story tries to make sense of an adult world.

Told from multiple points of view ... Amelie, Dave, and Damris ... they tell a riveting story of how one lie can cause the profound destruction of innocent lives in a blink of an eye.

The story deals with a particularly sensitive matter, but the author does a fine job without sensationalizing the topic. One "crime" -- three victims. I was hooked from the very beginning as I followed Amelie from present to her past to the present ... discovering her secret from the past. Dave takes the reader inside the prison where he resides with some of the most depraved men in the country. And Demaris ... how she grows from a young child to a teenager always wondering what really happened.

Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

[The Book Review Café · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael J Malone is one of those rare authors whose able to write about difficult and emotive issues, in any genre and turn what could be a compelling read, into something that’s extra special. A Song Of Isolation, his latest offering was all I was hoping for and so much more. In this breathtakingly brutal and intensely topical psychological thriller, a man is accused of child sexual abuse, and his life and that of his actress girlfriend are thrown into turmoil. 


The story is told from the POV of Amelie, the darling of the silver screen, Dave her boyfriend, arrested for child sexual abuse, and Damaris the victim. Sexual abuse of a child is a hard-hitting topic, but Malone is very subtle with the details, he doesn’t set out to shock the reader by including graphic scenes.The author has shown great sensitivity and understanding in creating all too believable characters, you will become consumed by their story. Add to that the author’s extraordinary prose which describe the characters’ emotions and their predicaments perfectly, the characters leap from the pages. 

A Song Of Isolation begins as a story of child abuse, but hidden within its pages is a story of greed, resentment, and lies, but ultimately it’s the heartbreaking story of the destruction of innocent life’s. Three characters with three unique story’s, but each one’s life is forever changed by the events that unfold. This book raised so many emotions in me as the story progressed. I witnessed the ‘fallout’ for Amelie, Dave and Damaris. They are forced to face very different situations, innocence is lost, and the glamour and glitter of stardom becomes tarnished. I have been struggling to read during these tough times, but I’m thrilled to report Malone has helped me find my reading mojo and A Sign Of Isolation will definitely be one of my top reads of 2020. Highly recommended. 

[Louise Beech · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, I closed a Michael Malone book sad that it had ended, excited for the next one, and in admiration of his beautiful writing. This one - as with a few of his others - covers some very weighty/topical/difficult issues, but it's never sensationalist, always sensitive. Exploring the fallout from a dark accusation involving a child, you never quite know what is truth and what is fiction. You're invested in every charcter, which makes it all the more emotional. And the writing, as always, is what makes it extra special. Strongly recommend this one.

[Janine · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 Hmm. I skimmed through this for the most part but needed to know how things turned out. I tried this author based on a recommendation by John Hart. Michael Malone is not in John Hart's league. The story was intriguing enough but the ending left me feeling disappointed in the whole book. Not sure I would read another of his books.

[Fictionophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first Michael J. Malone read. Lucky me.. he has a backlist for my future reading pleasure.

"There's no smoke without fire" is an old adage that most people seem to believe. Muck slinging, however ill-deserved, is oftentimes believed by those who are discontented in their lives and are envious of the victim of the libelous accusations. This book highlights the sad trend of crowd psychology. When that crowd psychology includes envy and avarice - it is a deadly combination.

All of the main characters in this novel were fully-fleshed out and the reader empathized with all three.  The plot was fraught with injustice upon injustice, and the reader cannot help but be frustrated and distraught over the character's plight.

The novel covers themes of wrongful accusation, guilt, envy, betrayal, avarice, resentment, and parental pressure.

With excellent pacing,an absorbing story, and a highly satisfactory ending,  "A Song of Isolation" is a superb thriller.

Highly recommended!

[Stephen Donovan · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 stars

This is a raw and immensely compelling book that has the power to stir a truly extraordinary range of emotions from start to finish. Multi-layered and told from an arresting trio of contrasting perspectives, it is superbly written and deeply impactful, such is the profound and detailed way in which it handles a number of highly sensitive topics.

There is rarely a dull moment throughout, which is largely down to the power of the plot and how easy it is to become fully invested in the characters and their respective plights. The richness of the storytelling, the various settings, and the differing circumstances of each protagonist all combine to make this a very difficult one to put down, with tension and atmosphere rife until virtually the last page.

Amelie Hart is a famous actress who appeared in four major films and already seemed to be some way along the path towards a glittering career, only for her to disappear suddenly from the public eye after suffering a traumatic ordeal at the hands of a stalker. Five years on, she has retreated to Scotland, where she has settled down with her boyfriend Dave and retains very few contacts from her old life.

But one evening, they receive a knock on the door and Dave is arrested and charged with sexually assaulting Damaris Brown, an 11-year-old girl who lives next door. A stunned Dave strongly protests his innocence, but nobody is inclined to believe him except for his parents and Amelie, so he is duly held on remand alongside some of the most evil and depraved offenders.

His connection to Amelie means that the case receives significant media coverage, and she is vilified by the press and the public for standing by Dave, leaving her with no option but to flee the country. At the same time, Damaris is left confused and isolated by everything that has happened, unsure of who she can trust and increasingly suspicious of the people around her.

While I was expecting a powerful and at times unsettling read, I perhaps did not anticipate being so consumed by the plot that I was often gripping my Kindle with some ferocity. It is quite tragic as you see the way that the characters are affected by events, but the execution is impeccable, as is the level of thought with which issues such as sexual abuse and self-harm are portrayed.

The events that take place early on and the consequences they have on Amelie, Dave, and Damaris take centre stage, but there is also a mystery element that adds more than a trace of intrigue. There were a few things that I found quite simple to predict, but that hardly undermines the quality of the story, which ends on a dramatic and intense, yet also poignant note.

To begin with, the chapters mainly alternate between the perspectives of Amelie and Dave, but as the story progresses it gradually develops the same level of focus on Damaris. All of them are written in the third person, which in this case was the ideal narrative, and they each have their own unique vibe which served to perfectly emphasise what essentially sets the three characters apart.

After being unsure of her at first, Amelie grew on me a lot. She could easily have been written as a stereotype, vain and used to treating others with indifference, but instead she is very likeable and down-to-earth. She still has flaws, but all the same I really enjoyed discovering her kind and caring nature, which made her easy for me to connect with.

Through Amelie, the book also explores the subject of how being famous can cause unwanted attention, and how it could be exploited by others for personal gain. And here, the consequences are extremely wide-ranging, destroying several lives as well as her own and leaving a long trail of victims in its wake. It is this knock-on effect that makes the book so powerful.

Dave loses literally everything and that makes you feel angry on his behalf. His severe sense of injustice and growing mistrust is captured expertly in the writing, although at times I did not find him the most likeable of characters. We are frequently told that he is ‘one of the good guys’, yet even in spite of what he is going through, he was still a bit too abrasive.

For all of the pain inflicted on Amelie and Dave, it was the story of Damaris that affected me the most. What happens to her in the time that follows Dave’s arrest is pretty harrowing and there was more than once where it left me feeling heartbroken. Even if these sections make for tough reading, she has a fascinating story arc and the author approaches it with the utmost care.

The three protagonists are all very well developed, and the same can be said about the supporting characters, who all play a significant part in the narrative. The sheer emptiness felt by Dave’s parents, the unbelievable selfishness of Claire and Cammy, the complexity of the relationship between Dave and his cellmate Angus; they are all keenly felt. Then we have Bernard, who only appears via telephone conversations, but brings energy to every one of his scenes.

Most of the story takes place in Scotland, but the overriding theme of isolation is apparent in all of the settings. The prison is made to seem particularly frightening, an unimaginably oppressive environment where violence could break out at any second. The scenes in France provided a nice escape from that and I really enjoyed them, they were well researched and the rural locations felt peaceful.

Overall, I have not come across many books that are so vivid or encompassing as this one in the way it deals with dark subject matter. The writing is more or less spot on and the short chapters allow you to remain wholly immersed in each storyline, with brilliantly developed characters whose stories conjure all kinds of feelings. For all of those reasons and more, this was a memorable read.

[Caroline Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am guaranteed three things when I pick up a Michael Malone book:
1. That it's beautifully written.
2. That it's a unique and compelling storyline.
3. That I won't be able to put it down.
The author delivered on all these promises and more. He has such a unique writing voice, I'd know his books without reading his name on the covers. I recommend A Song Of Isolation to any booklover, particularly those looking for a book which stands apart from all the rest. This story is sensitively written, the characters so well fleshed out that you will believe they are real. I can't recommend Michael Malone's books enough.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

"How can a normal day turn into a nightmare so quickly?"

Movie star Amelie Hart is living a quiet life with her boyfriend Dave Robbins after retiring from the limelight following a traumatic experience with a stalker. But her quiet idle is shattered when Dave is accused of abusing their neighbours' Eleven-year-old daughter.

Dave protests his innocence and Amelie believes him. But the court of public opinion has him convicted even before the trial begins and they judge Amelie guilty too, saying she 'must have known' what was happening.

"He felt shame bubble on his veins until it lay over his mind and heart and soul like a tombstone slab.
He was better than that.
He was a good guy, wasn't he? "

Michael J. Malone is a truly gifted writer. This isn't a story you can write without exploring the dark side and Malone manages to examine the dark and difficult topics in this book with honesty and sensitivity. Instead of taking sides he allows the reader to make up their own mind about the truth of the allegations. We know that Dave believes he did nothing wrong and that Damaris believes her story, and the author makes it clear they are both victims who have been living in a nightmare ever since that day. There is a real sense of helplessness and vulnerability in both characters. Whatever the outcome there will be no winners in this story.

The decision to have multiple narrators is one I liked as it offered not only more pieces of the puzzle, but showed the ripple effect of such allegations and its different effects on the lives of all those involved. He makes the characters leap from the page and immerses you so completely that you are drawn into their world and invested in what happens to them. At times the author evoked such a visceral reaction in me that I wanted to scream and shout as I witnessed the agony, heartache, injustice and manipulation that was suffered.

"Although she'd managed to rebuild and get on with her life with little impediment, it dismayed her that the terror that man caused her had never really left."

As someone with PTSD I particularly appreciated the accuracy with which the author portrayed Amelie in the book, showing how the accusations against Dave trigger her memories and the feelings from her earlier trauma, and caused a resurgence of habits and emotions she believed she was over. From my own experience I know that it's easy to think we're over a situation only for the smallest thing to trigger it coming back and that another large trauma leads to devastating feelings that are hard to work through. Poor Amelie has the added pressure of being a celebrity, allowing the author to look at the darker side of fame and the media's hunger for any gossip on those in the public eye.

Dave meanwhile never once wavers about his innocence, but goes through an incredibly dark time. He feels like he doesn't know who he is anymore and is forced to examine every interaction he's ever had not only with Damaris, but all women. He can't believe anyone could think him able to do such an evil thing or that by being kind to a lonely child he would see his whole life destroyed. Life in prison is frightening and he's in real danger but there is nothing he can do but ride it out and hope he survives. But he has no idea what will be waiting for him when he leaves and fears his whole future has been taken from him.

While I obviously felt for what Amelie and Dave were going through, from the start, the character I felt most moved by was Damaris, the child at the heart of the allegations. She is lonely, afraid and confused. She can't remember being hurt but believes that must be her mind protecting herself from the trauma. You get the sense early on that this little girl is just a pawn in her parent's game and how she feels or is affected matters little to them. I was so angry at how she was being treated. If she was abused then they were not giving her adequate support in her biggest time of need. And if she wasn't, then they've planted the seed of something that will psychologically damage their daughter forever.

Powerful, raw, moving, twisty and darkly atmospheric, A Song of Isolation is a riveting and affecting novel that I highly recommend. I am so glad that I finally read a book by this author and I'm looking forward to reading his back catalogue.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Film Star Amelie Hart stepped away from her life of stardom & has been quietly living with her boyfriend, Dave. Their lives are completely turned upside-down when the police arrive on the doorstep & arrest Dave. He has been accused of molesting Damaris, the little girl next door. Things move at a pace & Dave is in jail along with some very scary characters. His parents & Amelie stand by him throughout.

Told from various perspective this is a story covering a disturbing subject. It does so with thoughtfulness & sensitivity. I really enjoyed reading it. The characters were well rounded & were easy to like (& in some cases dislike!) A five star read! I have never read this author before but I will be looking out for more by him.

[Mark Tilbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

A knock on the front door changes everything for Dave and Amelie, when Dave is accused of sexually abusing Damaris, the young girl who lives next door.

As Dave awaits his trial in prison, Amelie once again becomes hounded by the press just like when she was an actress. Does she stand by Dave? What actually happened between Dave and Damaris?

This is a tense read. It's not a thrill a minute story, but there is an undercurrent throughout the book of something or someone being 'off' or not what you think they are.

Right from the beginning and throughout to the very end, I felt so sorry for Damaris. Not neglected, but often with only herself for company, having to deal with the police, and then the consequences of the trial.

Another winner from Malone. If you enjoy tense suspenseful reads, then I recommend this book.

[Roberta Marquez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, so who knew about Corn flakes??? 😂😂

[Jennifer Paterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally could not put this book down! When I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about it. It had me gripped from the first chapter. A gripping thrilling book. Can’t recommend it enough.

[Barb (Boxermommyreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Song of Isolation is a hard hitting novel with child sexual assault at its center. So if this is a trigger for you, you might want to pass, but honestly, Malone does a wonderful job at addressing such a heavy topic and despite the subject matter, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Malone divides the novel into three POVs - Amelie, a once famous who is supporting her boyfriend despite such horrific allegation, Dave, the accused, who is now locked up and Demaris, the child victim. I always enjoy multiple POVs in a book so I was thrilled to see this technique used to show the reader what each major character was experiencing. What's even better is that we get to see Demaris grow from a young girl to a teen and see how such trauma plays into the woman she is about to become.

A Song of Isolation kept me guessing because it isn't immediately clear if Dave is actually the monster people believe. I also really liked Amelie and it was interesting to see how she stood by Dave despite the allegations. Having worked with child abuse allegations in the past, and with my husband currently a counseling in a local prison, I was able to easily connect with subject matter and how each character was being impacted. Malone also did an impeccable job delving into the relationship between Dave and his cellmate Angus.

If you are looking for an intense mystery with well developed characters and a carefully thought out plot, then look no further. I will definitely keep my eyes open for more Malone novels in the future!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another spectacular book by Mr. Malone. Had my heart slipping into my stomach quite a few times. Read this in one sitting. There are some really funny moments with the sad and scary ones. The reference to other authors through the mean girls mention had me rolling on the floor. So funny.

[Yvonne (It's All About Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished reading: September 18th 2020

"Please. Live well. Be my revenge, Amelie."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***



I've been meaning to try Michael J. Malone's psychological thrillers for quite some time now, and especially since as far as I can remember I've only seen positive reviews so far. I figured that joining the blog tour for his newest title A Song Of Isolation would be both the perfect way to ensure I finally tried his work and also the little push I needed to pick up the backlist titles I have waiting on my kindle as well... And now that I have finally sampled his writing, I am most definitely hungry for more. Atmospheric, compelling, powerful, moving, brutal, emotional... A Song Of Isolation will claw its way into your head and heart and it is a story that will stay with me for a long time.

The story is told with the help of a multiple POV structure that follows three different characters over time: Amelie, Dave and Damaris. On top of this, the story is divided into three different years... First we have the flashbacks Amelie experiences from her time in London back in 2010 that will help explain why she moved to Scotland. Then we have the part of the story set in 2015, where all three characters feature and most of the time is spent. This part includes some fascinating perspectives on Dave's side including the day when Dave is first arrested, the trial and the chapters set in prison. Then we have Damaris and the effect the events have on her during and after the trial... And last but not least Amelie struggling to support Dave and her time in France afterwards. The last part of the story is set in 2019, and this is were everything comes together and the story will have more than one surprise for you in store.

Nothing is as it seems in A Song Of Isolation and you are constantly wondering about what is true and what ended up being a fabrication. As the truth about the whole situation is key in interpreting the story, it feels as if you are walking on a knife's edge the whole time, and this suspense never went away. The story includes multiple difficult themes, including child abuse, the possibility of false imprisonment, dealing with the aftermath of negative press, stalking, mental health issues and grief. Each element is incorporated realistically and fitted very well in the story as a whole, rather than just being a little something extra designed to shock alone. I was especially intrigued by the questions this story raises about child abuse and possible false imprisonment. I'm all for believing the child and its accusations first to protect the child, but what if the accusations are wrong? This could utterly destroy the life of an innocent man, but on the other hand you don't want a guilty predator to get away with what he did... This dilemma really messed with my head and it's one of the reasons this story ended up having such an impact on me.

The psychological aspect in general and the development of the different characters in play is simply sublime. Each felt realistic, flawed and really added something special to the story; while not all were exactly likeable, I couldn't help but feeling that urge to discover how they would evolve and what would happen to them. Especially those chapters set in prison were fascinating, and I love the chapters set in France too as the descriptions really made Bordeaux come alive for me... But A Song Of Isolation as a whole is designed to mesmerize. The writing itself is a true pleasure to the eye and mind. In fact, the only reason I didn't finish it in one sitting is because I started it too late in the day and couldn't afford an all-nighter... Because trust me, it was extremely hard to tear my eyes off those pages and stop reading.

A Song Of Isolation was my first experience with his books, but I will rectify that mistake soon. I have multiple of his backlist titles all ready and waiting for me on my kindle and I have no doubt that they will bring more hours filled with a fantastic reading experience. Fans of darker psychological thrillers NEED to read this one!

P.S. Find more of my reviews here.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Movie star, Amelie Hart, was a silver screen darling until she was held captive in her home and decided to step away from the limelight. Now living in a remote part of Scotland, Amelie has finally started to rebuild her life. Everything shifts and crumbles the day the police arrive at her home. They are there for her boyfriend, Dave, who has been accused of molesting their eleven-year-old neighbor, Damaris. Dave firmly denies having done anything untoward with Damaris, but the court finds differently. Amelie is torn between her love for Dave, her belief in his innocence, and her desire to escape the media witch hunt that has become her life. What really happened between Dave and Damaris?

A SONG OF ISOLATION brilliantly examines a heartbreaking and brutal scenario of a young girl’s accusations of abuse against her neighbor. This is the story of the impact and consequences of a man fighting for his innocence and a young girl trying to understand the very adult world she finds herself living in.

Malone has smartly chosen to alternate narratives within A SONG OF ISOLATION predominantly between Dave and Amelie, while also giving the reader some insight into Damaris’ experience. Each of the narratives stands on it’s own as an emotional portrait of how tragic events can impact a person’s life. I was heartbroken for each of our main characters at at least one point while reading this book. Malone truly portrays them in such detail and realism that the reader can’t help but bond with the characters. Woven in each of these narratives are also strong secondary characters who help fully round out the story as a whole.

Going into this book I didn’t realize that Malone would move the story through different sections of time. I was under the impression that it would center in one time period around the accusation and resulting trial. What I found was something that allowed for so much more depth than simply stopping after the trial would have given the reader. I loved that we were able to see how over the years this event never fades from our characters' present day lives and the impact that it continues to have on them.

A SONG OF ISOLATION is equal part thriller mixed with intense psychological examination of the impact horrendous events can have on people. This book is perfect for fans of crime fiction looking for something with a noir vibe. The subject matter may be dark, but this book is full of heart and love as well.

A huge thank you to Orenda books for my gifted copy!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, yet again Michael J Malone delivers a powerful and emotive read.

Within the opening chapters, it’s obvious things aren’t hunky dory in Dave and Amelia’s relationship. Things are about to get worse when the police knock on their door to take Dave in for questioning after allegations are made by their next door neighbours.

The more I got to know Amelia and Dave, the more I was committed to finding out the truth. Both of these characters are so compelling and demand the readers attention. Not only do we get to see things from life inside prison with Dave, to Amelia having to deal with everything on the outside but we also get to see and know Damaris, the girl who Dave is accused of sexually abusing.

I was instantly drawn into this story and the characters lives. The psychological element of the story had my mind going into overdrive as to whether Dave was guilty or innocent. I was at a constant battle with my emotions when it came to the behaviour of certain inmates and what Dave was having to endure but my heart was also breaking for what Damaris was going through. It was a story that wholly consumed me.

A Song of Isolation is a quietly brilliant novel. This is an author who delivers such hard hitting stories which take over my world whilst I am reading them. I wouldn’t even dream of comparing the author to anyone else as he has such a unique and powerful voice in his writing that affects me in ways I don’t think any other author ever has. It is a story that has left a mark on me as it made such an impact. A thought provoking page turner by a truly gifted writer.

My thanks to Ann Cater for an invite to be on the tour and to Orenda Books for a readers copy. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all of Michael J Malone's books published by Orenda, and a couple of his previous publications too. This is an author who is very difficult to put into a box; his books are thrilling, they are psychologically challenging, they always deal with the darker side of humanity and they are always beautifully written, with a tenderness and insight that is often breathtaking.

A Song Of Isolation's central theme is that of child sexual abuse, it is done with compassion and sensitivity, there's no gratuitous detail, in fact there's no detail of any abuse at all. This is about the effects of accusations; on the accused, their family, and on the child. A totally absorbing and compelling study in how many lives can be shattered, never to be repaired, by the actions of one other person. It's haunting in its realism, it's frightening in its motive and the effects are devastating.

Malone tells his story in three voices. Dave; the accused. Amelie; his girlfriend, and Damaris; the young girl at the centre of the accusations. His ability to create three contrasting voices, each telling their own version of the same story is stunning and as the reader uncovers the multi layered stories, the questions are constantly buzzing around their head.

This author invest so much into his characters that the reader cannot help but do that too. My heart ached for each of them, there's such a sense of soul woven into the narrative, along with a feeling of unbearable annoyance and anger as the realisation of what may have happened hits the reader.

A Song Of Isolation is a complex, riveting novel of dying hope, desperation and utter sadness. It is both tragic and profound and, for me, a complete page-turner. Highly recommended.

[Leona · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time to read a book by this author and I have definitely been missing out. What an excellent read this was. It reeled me in from the first page and kept me hooked until the very end. The story deals with a sensitive subject matter but it is handled very well in the book. I thought the writing style was very good and although some characters were unlikeable they were all good solid characters. So yes I thoroughly recommend this book and am off to download more by this author. My thanks to Michael J Malone , Orenda books and TBC for the arc of this book.

[Shy · Rating 4 out of 5]

this one took me on a trip, man.
there were parts of this book that i NEVER would’ve guessed.
i just...i don’t even know what to say other than WOW.
all the lies and deceit. just extraordinary that things like that can happen...

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really good read - couldn't put it down. Highly recommend!

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gah. This book. If you want an example of an author who, quite frequently, manages to write a book so full of emotion - both good and bad - and is able to create something that really gets under my skin and makes me feel a really visceral reaction to their writing, then you could do worse than to take a long hard look at Mr michael J Malone. Whether you are looking for a book that brings you to tears, or one that makes you want to slap your kindle, as in the case of this latest offering, then this is the guy you want.

From an opening scene that is both tense and unnerving at yet at a seeming partial disconnect with the heart of the story, by picking up A Song of Isolation you are committing to one hell of a roller coaster of a read that will see you have both highs and lows and a whole myriad of emotions from shock to anger and ultimately to sympathy and empathy. This is the story of Dave, Amelie and Damaris, three people who are thrown into the midst of a dark, disturbing and ultimately, anger inducing tale. The opening scene, as I say, seemingly disconnected from the vast majority of the novel, does at least start to set the scene as to why Amelie, a former movie sweetheart, is now living in relative isolation in Scotland having shunned fame in favour of a simple life with Dave. Dave, the man who is at the centre of what is about to happen - who stands accused of a crime so heinous that it is almost unconscionable that as a reader you could feel anything other than disgust or anger towards him, even though, at the start, we know little of him. For Dave soon stands accused of sexually molesting his and Amelie's eleven year old neighbour, Damaris.

And yet ... Michael J Malone sets the scene up so perfectly that from the very start you feel like something is very off about this whole premise, this whole accusation. Now it is certainly not unheard of for the accused to protest their innocence. There are few who would do otherwise in this situation. It is also not unheard of for abuse to happen right in front of the eyes of a loved one and for them to remain oblivious or to turn a blind eye. But there is just something about the way in which the author sets up this whole situation that makes the whole thing feel ... staged. That leaves you a little uncertain as to what is fact and what fiction. But from the outset I found myself one the side of Dave, even though I couldn;t immediately put my finger on why. And due to this fact the book poses some very important questions, ones which play into the concept of guilt and innocence that is played out on a daily basis in modern life. The court of public opinion which is prevalent these days, and often quite vicious, magnified through the sphere of social media. Add in the celebrity link of a one time movie star and the salacious nature of this particular case is amplified a thousand times, making both accused and accuser, and their families, public property.

This was such an intriguing read. Amelie is a character who I did warm to, even though she is guarded, and as you read the book is becomes more and more understandable why, and why she has turned her back on fame. Not that this helps her or Dave in the long run. I like the way in which her character is developed, how we slowly learn more about her and the way in which the author has challenged her emotions, her reaction to what happens and how she puts herself back together in the aftermath. Because as much as this is Dave's plight, there is a backstory that belongs wholly to Amelie, one that is believable and full of its own selection of shocks and surprises. Damaris is someone who it takes time to understand although I can feel nothing but sympathy for her, but not for the reasons you may suspect. She is only a child after all, damaged and changed by circumstance, but drawn so brilliantly that despite everything you think you should feel, you will still be surprised by her.

Dave is perhaps the most troubling character of all, and I say this because of my reaction to him. I trusted him from the start, no matter the allegations against him, despite not knowing if they were true or not. It is testament to the author's skill that he was able to create that trust so quickly in spite of dropping in overwhelming evidence against Dave from almost the moment we met him. To not have some kind of sympathy toward him would have made this a very hard story to read. Yet it is his story that made me the most angry, provoked the most visceral feelings as I read the book, and the reason I remained glued to it to the very last page.

This is such a complex story, one that makes you question your own thought processes when faced with a high profile case in which such allegations of abuse arise. Do you believe the accused or the accuser. What if the accused is connected to a high profile name - are they also guilty by association? Is it right that the media should name someone before a charge is even brought given the propensity of the world at large to think it appropriate to levy threats of death and the like to those who are connected to them, simply because they can? It certainly made me think about how I behave when I hear reports on the news, how quick I may be to judgement without hearing the whole facts of what has truly come to pass. It also makes you think about why a victim may find things so hard to report, about manipulation, coercion and the very nature of abuse.

This is yet another novel which makes you think long and hard about your perception of certain situations, and that challenges what you think you know, whilst enveloping up a very real and very believable story in layer upon layer of mystery, tension and emotion. Definitely highly recommended.

[Louise Sowter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written about a sensitive topic in the press figuring highly right now .. I enjoyed the content and structure immensely and quite honestly was sad when I came to the end of the book . Is five stars all the way and look forward to reading more by this author excellent

[Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a frequent visitor of Michael J. Malone’s works I keep thinking I know what to expect going into his latest novel. Yet I am never ready for what comes next. Each of MJM’s stories centre around important and deeply human experiences, such as devastating abuse, unbearable loss and startling truths, suffused with psychological thrills that easily manage to get under the reader’s skin and jab them right in the heart.

Until now, the novels I’ve read have been almost claustrophobic in their intimacy but MJM has taken the experience to a whole other direction in A Song Of Isolation. There is still that intimate internal conflict and suffering that guides his narratives but it exists under the crushing weight of the court of public opinion. It is a clever narrative choice and it works so well as a suspenseful thrilling plot line that takes the reader on a hard and fast journey through public outrage, prison cells and endless humiliation.

The story centres around Amelie Hart, a one hit wonder movie star who has since retreated from the limelight but rarely strays from the public eye. Minding her own business and facing a pivotal moment in her current relationship, Amelie’s life is turned upside down by a knock at the door. Amelie’s boyfriend Dave is carted off by the police for allegedly molesting the neighbour’s 11 year-old daughter Damaris. A girl that Dave was known to give attention too while out working in their garden. Dave is frightened for his life, he knows from this point on he’ll only ever be considered as a paedophile, not matter the truth or the facts. That is a brand that cannot be covered up.

Despite the looming risk of loses her brittle celebrity status Amelie believes in Dave, that he is a kind hearted soul, and in doing so is dragged down as a bitch who must have known all along. Amelie is conflicted because she wants young Damaris to grow up in a world where people dealing with abuse can talk and people will listen and get them the help they need. But her trust in Dave is important too and Amelie’s fame only intensifies the fallout of the accusations. As the plot unfolds we see what happens to Amelie, Dave (as well as his family) and Damaris, a girl who is confused by events, how her life is changing day to day and what everyone is saying about Dave, who was supposed to be her friend.

The public have turned on everyone involved, threats are made, a trial date is set and all their lives will never be the same again. A Song Of Isolation is an intense, unforgettable story of how much devastation can truly be wrought by falsehoods and twisted truths especially under today’s reactive, social media focused lens. And how accusations can rip through a family and anyone connected to the accused causing untold desolation even before a conviction is passed down from a court of law.

There are many strong and clear themes in A Song Of Isolation that affected me greatly from innocence, fame and the justice system to money, power and pure helplessness. And even if you think you know what happened that fateful day, you never really do until the books final moments.

I wholeheartedly have no idea who to feel worse for more in A Song Of Isolation. Amelie, Dave and Damaris are all such great characters. Each of them are lost, confused and desperate for answers. They all have moments in this novel that added to the already massive pit in my stomach that took residence from the first page but I would have to settle for a tie between Dave and Damaris. Don’t get me wrong, Amelie’s time is still incredibly difficult and it is hard to face at times, especially with her past, and the constant threats, that follow her everywhere she goes.

But Dave’s journey through the criminal justice system and Damaris perspective of his alleged crimes are tough to be a part of. Michael J. Malone has always been great at crafting believable and inspired characters who reflect real people facing impossible situations and choices. He has that respectful, organic yet unbearable raw style that becomes almost irresistible, you want to look away but you also need to know the truth. I acknowledge that up until now that I’ve been rather heavy in this review, that is because there is always a real weight to MJM’s words.

Saying that he does find light in the darkest of places though and that has never been more apparent than in A Song Of Isolation. There are moments here that break up MJM perfectly crafted tension, just for a moment, and it highlights the importance of sticking to your guns and believing there will always be an end to the toughest times in your life. Maybe I’m thinking too much into it.

What I can say is that A Song Of Isolation is a tremendous continuation of Michael J Malone’s unforgiving yet charming Scottish psychological thriller collection. New and old fans alike will easily appreciate the work involved with bringing all the dimensions of this story together, how excellent the psychological aspects of this story are fleshed out and how on edge MJM truly makes his readers. I’ve been a huge fan of MJM since I picked up A Suitable Lie and I cannot recommend all of his works enough but for now please support A Song Of Isolation because it is a top tier Scottish thriller novel.

[Juliet Bookliterati · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Song of Isolation by Michael J Malone takes a hard look at whether suspects in abuse and rape cases should be named before they are convicted. Amelie Hart walks away from her life as a famous film star, and settles for a quiet life, away from the lights and press with boyfriend Dave in Scotland. However, her peaceful life ends when Dave is accused of child sexual abuse. The press jump on the story and Dave finds himself vilified in the press and at the centre of a witch hunt. Amelie vows to stand by him but finds herself tainted by association and whilst David is in prison Amelie flees the country. This story shows how one accusation has a rippling effect, destroying many lives by association.

The question of whether it is right to publicly name those suspected of rape or child abuse before being prosecuted has been discussed a lot in the press recently after several high profile cases. Michael J Malone highlights this brilliantly in A Song of Isolation, showing the dark and destructive side of this, not just on the accused but also their family and in this case the accuser. The title is very apt, Dave has the support of his family and Amelie but still feels very alone, and in turn Amelie and his family also feel isolated as they hide away from the press. The other person who feels isolated is the eleven year old victim, Damaris who doesn’t really understand what is happening.

The story is told from the viewpoint of Amelie, Dave and Damaris, three characters I liked and felt invested in. In Amelie I admired her loyalty and continued belief in Dave’s innocence even at the expense of work; she could only return to film work if she denounced Dave. To escape the press and seeing the lies about her in the papers and on television she returns to France where her father was from. Even in doing this she feels guilt at living her life whilst Dave is in prison. Dave finds his life destroyed just because he is the boyfriend of an ex movie star. Being accused of child abuse means he finds himself on the sex offenders wing, the most dangerous in a prison. Not only that but his relationship with Amelie puts him in the spotlight with a price on his head. From inside prison he also has to watch his family fall apart, but yet he is still able to show compassion to others, including one of his cell mates. Damaris is the character I felt the most empathy for. She is the pawn in a game she doesn’t understand, a game that isolates her from her friends, and from her family in that she doesn’t understand the furtive whispers of her parents.

Michael J Malone builds the tension throughout, as we see Amelie try to start a new life whilst still living in fear of a stalker from five years ago, and Dave try to keep safe in prison. It is very dark in places, brutally honest and had me feeling many different emotions. He tarnishes the glitz of game for a murkier and more sinister feel, where lies and jealousy can ruin a life.

A Song of Isolation is an unsettling and moving look at the darker side of fame. Michael J Malone shows how a false accusation has a rippling effect, destroying not just the accused but also the lives of those around them. Beautifully written, with empathy and understanding but also with the brutal honesty. Hard hitting, emotive and complex this is another stunning book from Michael J Malone and one I won’t forget in a hurry.

[Jacob Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael J. Malone explores some dark themes in his latest novel, A Song of Isolation. Hollywood film star, Amelie Hart is left feeling devastated when her partner, Dave is accused of child abuse by their neighbours. Because of her connection to Dave, the case is catapulted into the spotlight. They soon find themselves under intense scrutiny from the public and the media. Amelie is certain of Dave’s innocence, as is his family, but now that the wheels have been set in motion; it seems that there is little that can be done to stop the changing tide of events.

I wanted to shout at the injustice being done to Dave and Amelia while I was reading this book. I felt sure that he was being stitched up the family of the victim; I couldn’t believe they were being allowed to get away with it. Sadly, I couldn’t help but think of how very likely it is that this could happen in the real world. I’ve always believed that the names of suspects should never be released until it is proven without a doubt that they are the person responsible for the crime.

Dave’s trial garners more publicity from the media as he is currently dating a Hollywood film star. You can see the level of scrutiny that is opposed upon them, especially upon Amelia as well just for supporting her partner. Michael J. Malone also explores the effect that this has on Dave’s parents. They run a successful business, and you can see the fears that the publicity will have on his work. I kept thinking that at any moment, even Dave’s family; especially Amelia, would abandon him to save their careers. I was desperate for this not to happen. This again made me feel angry as Amelia was being pressured to drop all contact with him to save her career.

What this novel explores well, is that we are all too quick to judge people, especially celebrities, when a lot of articles printed about them can be misleading. You can see this in the way that people speak of Dave when the media essentially portray him as guilty before the case has even been brought to trial. The public soon starts talking about him, people who know him as well and say, “I always thought he looked a bit shifty.” This happens in real life, as well. All of a sudden people’s perception of a person seems to change. They convince themselves that he is guilty without looking into the facts. Is this a way, perhaps, to convince themselves that the police have convicted the right person? Does this make them feel somehow comfortable that a dangerous person, local to them, has been rightly put behind bars, removing that threat?

Throughout the book, I was rooting for Dave and Amelie to get the justice that they deserved. I felt for the alleged victim as well, Damaris, as you can see that she is being manipulated. This kept me, even more, gripped to the book as I wasn’t sure how things were going to pan out for Dave. I could see that things could go either way for him, and this made me root for him even more.

Michael J. Malone has created another stunning, powerful piece of writing that will stay with you. A Song of Isolation is a powerful, heart-wrenching read. It’s a book that challenges your thought process, and it should be on everyone’s reading pile. Highly recommended!