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Overland
A dark romantic suspense thriller (trigger alert for sexual, child, and mental abuse).
Skyla Overland is proud to work for Overland Insurance, the company founded by her grandfather. Besides one nerve-wracking insurance fraud case in the past, her sheltered life is uneventful and just the way she likes it.
Until one day, everything changes...
Skyla and Troy, the manager at Overland Insurance, are the last ones to leave the office. In the empty parking lot, Troy takes her in his arms. Why would he ruin their easy-going friendship by kissing her, especially since he knows she’s dating Edmond?
Left alone, Skyla hurries to her car, puts on her seatbelt, and glances in her rearview mirror. The face of a stranger grins at her from the backseat. “How nice to see you again,” he hisses close to her ear.
Regaining consciousness, Skyla finds herself on the backseat of her own car, with her hands tied behind her back. Is she getting kidnapped? Who is he? And where is he taking her?
Skyla Overland is proud to work for Overland Insurance, the company founded by her grandfather. Besides one nerve-wracking insurance fraud case in the past, her sheltered life is uneventful and just the way she likes it.
Until one day, everything changes...
Skyla and Troy, the manager at Overland Insurance, are the last ones to leave the office. In the empty parking lot, Troy takes her in his arms. Why would he ruin their easy-going friendship by kissing her, especially since he knows she’s dating Edmond?
Left alone, Skyla hurries to her car, puts on her seatbelt, and glances in her rearview mirror. The face of a stranger grins at her from the backseat. “How nice to see you again,” he hisses close to her ear.
Regaining consciousness, Skyla finds herself on the backseat of her own car, with her hands tied behind her back. Is she getting kidnapped? Who is he? And where is he taking her?
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2020
3 people are currently reading
1000 people want to read
About the author
Ramcy Diek
6 books164 followersRamcy Diek fell in love with the United States during her travels with her husband. The Pacific Northwest became the Dutch couple's home, where they built their RV Park and raised their two sons.
During this time, Ramcy also made a slow transition from reader to multi-genre writer. Her debut novel Storm at Keizer Manor received multiple awards. This inspired her to spend more time doing what she loves most: writing stories.
Eagles in Flight, a romantic suspense novel, is her second book. Her third novel Overland, a romantic and dramatic thriller, followed soon after.
Visit Ramcy’s website at www.ramcydiek.com for updates on more new releases and to sign up for her mailing list.
During this time, Ramcy also made a slow transition from reader to multi-genre writer. Her debut novel Storm at Keizer Manor received multiple awards. This inspired her to spend more time doing what she loves most: writing stories.
Eagles in Flight, a romantic suspense novel, is her second book. Her third novel Overland, a romantic and dramatic thriller, followed soon after.
Visit Ramcy’s website at www.ramcydiek.com for updates on more new releases and to sign up for her mailing list.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 19, 2021
Trigger Alert: physical exploitation, child abuse, brutality.
What a fabulous nail-biting suspense thriller by Ramcy! I really couldn't have my eyes off the narrative even for a second. She gives her audience to perceive the precise moods that the heroine Skyla passes through. I am sure this one is someday gonna be turned into a blockbuster film. This book has the potential to have you involved even if you are not reading it. Believe me, it took me a few days to let the novel wear off of me.
This novel is all-around hate, desire, rage, and passion. The only point I didn't actually get is why it's termed as a romantic suspense book. The romantic side simply helped the account deliver a genuine quality; but, there wasn't enough love. Additionally, the end appeared to be quite abrupt. I liked the book's cover; you get what it implies once you complete the narrative. Nevertheless, the blurb could have been changed a little.
This is my first novel of Ramcy & I wholly relished the plot.
Thank you, BookSirens, Publisher Acorn Publications, Author Ramcy Diek for the e-copy of this book. All views stated are of my own & at my own discretion.
What a fabulous nail-biting suspense thriller by Ramcy! I really couldn't have my eyes off the narrative even for a second. She gives her audience to perceive the precise moods that the heroine Skyla passes through. I am sure this one is someday gonna be turned into a blockbuster film. This book has the potential to have you involved even if you are not reading it. Believe me, it took me a few days to let the novel wear off of me.
This novel is all-around hate, desire, rage, and passion. The only point I didn't actually get is why it's termed as a romantic suspense book. The romantic side simply helped the account deliver a genuine quality; but, there wasn't enough love. Additionally, the end appeared to be quite abrupt. I liked the book's cover; you get what it implies once you complete the narrative. Nevertheless, the blurb could have been changed a little.
This is my first novel of Ramcy & I wholly relished the plot.
Thank you, BookSirens, Publisher Acorn Publications, Author Ramcy Diek for the e-copy of this book. All views stated are of my own & at my own discretion.
December 4, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Acorn Publishing for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warnings: Scenes of sexual violence and child abuse
A romantic suspense novel that had me interested from the very first page. Skyla Overland is taken captive by a man bent on revenge and her father and friends must rush to try and find her before it's too late.
Ramcy Diek has the ability to create an atmosphere in which the reader feels absolutely powerless as the days that Skyla is captive continue to grow. If I had one little quibble, it's that the romance element just really didn't capture me in quite the same fashion. A new to me author that I will keep an eye out for in the future.
#Overland #NetGalley
Publication Date 10/11/20
Goodreads Review published 04/12/20
Trigger warnings: Scenes of sexual violence and child abuse
A romantic suspense novel that had me interested from the very first page. Skyla Overland is taken captive by a man bent on revenge and her father and friends must rush to try and find her before it's too late.
Ramcy Diek has the ability to create an atmosphere in which the reader feels absolutely powerless as the days that Skyla is captive continue to grow. If I had one little quibble, it's that the romance element just really didn't capture me in quite the same fashion. A new to me author that I will keep an eye out for in the future.
#Overland #NetGalley
Publication Date 10/11/20
Goodreads Review published 04/12/20
August 21, 2024
A tale of hatred and revenge.
Dark, haunting and heartbreaking.
Overland is one thriller that will stay with you long after turning the last page.
The evening before Thanksgiving, Skyla Overland gets into her car and steps straight into a nightmare. One that will have her not only reconsider her future but also her view on day to day life choices.
Choices. This tale is all about choices, actions and consequences.
A madman hell bent on revenge kidnaps a woman out of revenge and puts both her as well as three little children through hell. And I swear I wanted to bash his face in several times over.
Forced to be a surrogate mother to the madman's little children, and subjected to both physical and psychological abuse, Skyla manages to keep her hope alive alongside the determination to escape because of the little children. Malnourished and in such a heartbreakingly pathetic state, those children are the only thing that keep her sane. That and the dream of a normal life full of love, alongside a good man.
My heart broke at the suffering of those kids. Their behavior and way of coping in the aftermath of a beating, the terror in their eyes, their love and care for each other and their bravery... My heart! I wanted to reach through the pages and give them a big hug.
Then we have Skyla herself. Caught in between guilt and sorrow, fear and determination, love and hate. Skyla is a victim whose strength outshines that of her captor. Despite, or perhaps because of the abuse she goes through. A great character to root for.
Fast-paced and gripping, Overland is a compelling read that will keep you turning pages long into the night.
It turns very dark at times, depicting vivid scenes of rape and abuse - child abuse included. But it is also beautifully balanced with a strong thread of love, hope and determination that brings light into the dark.
Pacing and plot are excellent, while the descriptive nature of certain scenes will make anyone react.
Hugs and light everyone
and stay safe.
Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner
Dark, haunting and heartbreaking.
Overland is one thriller that will stay with you long after turning the last page.
The evening before Thanksgiving, Skyla Overland gets into her car and steps straight into a nightmare. One that will have her not only reconsider her future but also her view on day to day life choices.
Choices. This tale is all about choices, actions and consequences.
A madman hell bent on revenge kidnaps a woman out of revenge and puts both her as well as three little children through hell. And I swear I wanted to bash his face in several times over.
Forced to be a surrogate mother to the madman's little children, and subjected to both physical and psychological abuse, Skyla manages to keep her hope alive alongside the determination to escape because of the little children. Malnourished and in such a heartbreakingly pathetic state, those children are the only thing that keep her sane. That and the dream of a normal life full of love, alongside a good man.
My heart broke at the suffering of those kids. Their behavior and way of coping in the aftermath of a beating, the terror in their eyes, their love and care for each other and their bravery... My heart! I wanted to reach through the pages and give them a big hug.
Then we have Skyla herself. Caught in between guilt and sorrow, fear and determination, love and hate. Skyla is a victim whose strength outshines that of her captor. Despite, or perhaps because of the abuse she goes through. A great character to root for.
Fast-paced and gripping, Overland is a compelling read that will keep you turning pages long into the night.
It turns very dark at times, depicting vivid scenes of rape and abuse - child abuse included. But it is also beautifully balanced with a strong thread of love, hope and determination that brings light into the dark.
Pacing and plot are excellent, while the descriptive nature of certain scenes will make anyone react.
Hugs and light everyone
and stay safe.
Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner
January 3, 2021
I had an idea that this book was to be a mystery/thriller but was unsure what the storyline would be and seeing as I had never read anything by this author prior - I didn't know what to expect. However, it seems after reading the author's introduction that this book was different from her usual stories. Overland started a bit slow-paced with us meeting our main male character who would become the abductor and then it flipped to Skyla - our main female character getting ready for her parent's business Christmas party. While out shopping, Skyla feels like she is being watched and can't shake the feeling - she also flashbacks to a time when she helped a little boy named Tom. The book then jumps to the last day at the office and Skyla is abducted and taken to a cabin in the woods. Why her and who is this guy? He seems familiar but Skyla can't place it? Imagine her surprise when she learns the guy who kidnapped her has three children and Skyla has been kidnapped to become their "new" mother. Can Skyla survive the winter and conditions and look after the children or will they get on the wrong side of the man and end up buried in a grave out in the snow. I loved this story as I like mysteries that have children involved as they can make the story and you end up having more compassion and also when it comes to the crunch, you can tell who really loves you and who just wanted you for your last name. If you are looking for a good mystery to start 2021 off with a bang, then check out Overland by Ramcy Diek today.
March 1, 2021
Skyla Overland feels that someone, somewhere is following her, watching her. She just can't shake that feeling.
One night, leaving work, she gets in her car and in her rear view mirror sees the face of a stranger smiling at her from the back seat. What she next remembers is being in the back seat of her own car, hands tied behind her back.
Who has taken her? Where is he taking her? And most importantly ... why? Is she being held for ransom? Was she specifically targeted .. or was this a random attack?
It's a fast-moving plot with suspense that starts at the very beginning and holds steady until the surprising conclusion. The characters are deftly drawn . A bit of romance blends well with the suspense.
Many thanks to the author / Acorn Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this Romantic Suspense / Thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
One night, leaving work, she gets in her car and in her rear view mirror sees the face of a stranger smiling at her from the back seat. What she next remembers is being in the back seat of her own car, hands tied behind her back.
Who has taken her? Where is he taking her? And most importantly ... why? Is she being held for ransom? Was she specifically targeted .. or was this a random attack?
It's a fast-moving plot with suspense that starts at the very beginning and holds steady until the surprising conclusion. The characters are deftly drawn . A bit of romance blends well with the suspense.
Many thanks to the author / Acorn Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this Romantic Suspense / Thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 17, 2020
I enjoy a good survival story. Occasionally, I’ll even settle for a mediocre one. But this waste of digital ink was, sadly, nowhere near either category.
I didn’t expect all that much from this random Netgalley find, but to be fair, until now, the going assumption was that Danish writers are just all pretty much good, you know, the way danishes are all pretty much good. But no, this author definitely proves that theory wrong. Maybe she’s gotten too Americanized. Maybe the thing that makes Scandinavian crime fiction so good is the forbidding weather, months of darkness, etc. And this one, though set in a somewhat crappy Pacific Northwest weather, just doesn’t cut it
It isn’t just a climate thing either. It’s…well, it’s so many things. The flat uninspired writing, the thin plotting, the stilted unrealistic dialogue…none of that helps. But it is the novel’s insistence on clumsily incorporating romance into it that really brings it down to the bottom of the barrel.
But it is a survival story or, more precisely, a kidnapping thriller. A psycho who believes himself to have been wronged by an insurance company, steals the person he blames and drags her into the woods to serve as an ersatz wife/mother/maid person for him and his young children.
This goes on for a while, during an especially brutal winter, in a remote off grid cabin, all while the victim’s family, the Overlands, search for her. The search that utilizes some strikingly inept work from both police and private investigator and a determined romantic interest, because, you know, it’s that sort of a story.
In fact, there’s a freaking love triangle in there, between Skyla, her perfect on paper boyfriend Edmond and her perfect for her coworker Troy. There’s even a completely unnecessary additional romance between the PI and a cop. And if you thought the writing wasn’t all that great to begin with, just wait till it gets all amorous, which brings it to just embarrassing levels of quality. It’s entirely possible that’s how romantic fiction is done, don’t know, don’t read that crap, but…but it can’t be, can it? Can it really be that insipid and laughably terribly written at the same time? Isn’t it enough that it already propagates completely unrealistic ideas of romance? Does it have to be such sh*te to read too?
Anyway, the entire thing ends up pretty much as you’d expect, it’s nothing if not predictable. IN fact, the only surprising thing about this production is the amount of good reviews it gathered on GR. What, how, why? Seriously? Whatever elements of suspense, whatever thrills the author had tried to infuse the novel with got completely buried under the by the numbers stilted narrative and insipid romantic overtures. Just about the only thing this novel did right was to end quickly, but even then 180 minutes were completely wasted. Pass. Avoid. Stay away. Thanks Netgalley.
I didn’t expect all that much from this random Netgalley find, but to be fair, until now, the going assumption was that Danish writers are just all pretty much good, you know, the way danishes are all pretty much good. But no, this author definitely proves that theory wrong. Maybe she’s gotten too Americanized. Maybe the thing that makes Scandinavian crime fiction so good is the forbidding weather, months of darkness, etc. And this one, though set in a somewhat crappy Pacific Northwest weather, just doesn’t cut it
It isn’t just a climate thing either. It’s…well, it’s so many things. The flat uninspired writing, the thin plotting, the stilted unrealistic dialogue…none of that helps. But it is the novel’s insistence on clumsily incorporating romance into it that really brings it down to the bottom of the barrel.
But it is a survival story or, more precisely, a kidnapping thriller. A psycho who believes himself to have been wronged by an insurance company, steals the person he blames and drags her into the woods to serve as an ersatz wife/mother/maid person for him and his young children.
This goes on for a while, during an especially brutal winter, in a remote off grid cabin, all while the victim’s family, the Overlands, search for her. The search that utilizes some strikingly inept work from both police and private investigator and a determined romantic interest, because, you know, it’s that sort of a story.
In fact, there’s a freaking love triangle in there, between Skyla, her perfect on paper boyfriend Edmond and her perfect for her coworker Troy. There’s even a completely unnecessary additional romance between the PI and a cop. And if you thought the writing wasn’t all that great to begin with, just wait till it gets all amorous, which brings it to just embarrassing levels of quality. It’s entirely possible that’s how romantic fiction is done, don’t know, don’t read that crap, but…but it can’t be, can it? Can it really be that insipid and laughably terribly written at the same time? Isn’t it enough that it already propagates completely unrealistic ideas of romance? Does it have to be such sh*te to read too?
Anyway, the entire thing ends up pretty much as you’d expect, it’s nothing if not predictable. IN fact, the only surprising thing about this production is the amount of good reviews it gathered on GR. What, how, why? Seriously? Whatever elements of suspense, whatever thrills the author had tried to infuse the novel with got completely buried under the by the numbers stilted narrative and insipid romantic overtures. Just about the only thing this novel did right was to end quickly, but even then 180 minutes were completely wasted. Pass. Avoid. Stay away. Thanks Netgalley.
January 22, 2021
Overland is my first read from Ramcy Diek, and it won’t be my last.
Romantic suspense is my favorite romance genre. I really enjoy the suspenseful nature of these novels. Ramcy Diek’s writing is awesome. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole novel.
The atmosphere of this story is dark. As a reader, you feel pretty helpless as you watch Skyla in the predicament she’s in. The villain is a sick man, and someone that you really learn to hate, immediately. A quick note of a trigger warning: the abuse in this story, while not over done, is difficult to read. I found myself struggling just because I felt terrible for the characters.
On the flip side, the story is balanced with some light and hope, strength and courage. It is a compelling novel, that I didn’t want to set down.
Overall, I would recommend giving this one a read with the possibly triggering themes kept in mind.
*I received a free copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
Romantic suspense is my favorite romance genre. I really enjoy the suspenseful nature of these novels. Ramcy Diek’s writing is awesome. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole novel.
The atmosphere of this story is dark. As a reader, you feel pretty helpless as you watch Skyla in the predicament she’s in. The villain is a sick man, and someone that you really learn to hate, immediately. A quick note of a trigger warning: the abuse in this story, while not over done, is difficult to read. I found myself struggling just because I felt terrible for the characters.
On the flip side, the story is balanced with some light and hope, strength and courage. It is a compelling novel, that I didn’t want to set down.
Overall, I would recommend giving this one a read with the possibly triggering themes kept in mind.
*I received a free copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
April 7, 2021
This story is told from multiple perspectives and thank God it doesn't make me confuse lol Skyla is being kidnapped by someone who wanted to take a revenge because of what she dis few years ago. She was forced to take care of his 3 children. This is weird but quite interesting lol
Omg I hate her boyfriend. The one who did everything to find Skyla is Troy, her colleague who loves her for a long time.
Btw thank you Booksirens, publisher and author for Overland ARC!
Omg I hate her boyfriend. The one who did everything to find Skyla is Troy, her colleague who loves her for a long time.
Btw thank you Booksirens, publisher and author for Overland ARC!
November 2, 2022
A man driven by revenge and desperation. A woman guided by love and compassion. A story that keeps you on the edge of your seat... a book you cannot put down. I cant say more without revealing spoilers. OVERLAND is a must read 5 Stars
January 7, 2023
Okay so this is dark but it is really good very well written and narrated. It starts off slow so wasnt sure how it was going to go but I soon so got gripped into the story.
The author warned about trigger warnings and yes there are in those in there but they have to be in there for the story to work. What I felt really gutted about, you can see I got involved in the story, was towards the end dont want to say more but it just made me feel so sad for the children.
I was given a free copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
The author warned about trigger warnings and yes there are in those in there but they have to be in there for the story to work. What I felt really gutted about, you can see I got involved in the story, was towards the end dont want to say more but it just made me feel so sad for the children.
I was given a free copy by the author but the review is entirely my own.
January 6, 2021
I had a little trouble connecting to the story at first, and then it occurred to me that it was reading a lot like a Mary Higgins Clark stand alone, and I didn't really want to stop with 40 pages to go and go to bed, but I did ;) I like that she connected with the children right away and never lost that connection. I liked the characters, except for the obvious and Edmund was a troll. Nice light read with a grip to it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 30, 2021
i was super lucky to have won this in a Goodreads giveaway, great book cover. new to this author. i really don't read thrillers often ... prefer mysteries ... suspense is a must. i mean i prefer a more lighter happier kind of the mystery world than down in the dumps or sad life .. etc. i am sure you get that. i will be curious to check out more from Ramcy Diek soon enough. great read. check this out.
November 16, 2020
This was a difficult review.
On the one hand, this book totally annoyed me. It contained so many things that showed that the proper research had not been done. For instance, when she went missing the family called the hospitals. Well, hospitals are not allowed to confirm if someone is a patient there.
Also, the boyfriend was the love of her life and she had thoughts of marriage. Now wait, he is a jerk. Oh wait, he's great again.
The writing was a bit superficial. It was as if the author was telling you how you should feel, rather than feeling it yourself. Actually, none of the characters had any depth.
So why was this a hard review to write? Because I KEPT READING IT! If I was so annoyed, who was I so drawn in and why did I read the entire thing?
On the one hand, this book totally annoyed me. It contained so many things that showed that the proper research had not been done. For instance, when she went missing the family called the hospitals. Well, hospitals are not allowed to confirm if someone is a patient there.
Also, the boyfriend was the love of her life and she had thoughts of marriage. Now wait, he is a jerk. Oh wait, he's great again.
The writing was a bit superficial. It was as if the author was telling you how you should feel, rather than feeling it yourself. Actually, none of the characters had any depth.
So why was this a hard review to write? Because I KEPT READING IT! If I was so annoyed, who was I so drawn in and why did I read the entire thing?
February 5, 2021
Overland is the first book I’ve read by Ramcy Diek. As soon as I read the prologue, I was hooked. Ms. Diek created an atmosphere that was filled with strong emotions, intrigue and suspense. I immediately found myself with strong opinions regarding the men in Skyla Overton’s life and hoped that she would dump her boyfriend.
There is brutality involved in Skyla’s kidnapping and the emotional and physical violence are realistic.Her belief that her family was looking for her offered solace. The struggle to find a way to survive the ordeal is heroic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There is brutality involved in Skyla’s kidnapping and the emotional and physical violence are realistic.Her belief that her family was looking for her offered solace. The struggle to find a way to survive the ordeal is heroic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 12, 2021
I loved it This story has all the feels, I cried so often and felt helpless at others. This is a well written story with believable characters who you feel are your friends, some of them, others you want to disappear. There are triggers, so it may not be for some readers. i would highly recommend it. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 2, 2021
Skyla Overland enjoyed working for the family business, an insurance agency founded by her grandfather. After planning the usual Thanksgiving buffet for the employees, Skyla and Troy, another long-time employee, cleaned up and put the leftover food into Skyla’s Jeep, planning to donate to the nearby homeless center. Before Skyla could leave, however, Troy surprised her by kissing her goodbye, telling her he had feelings for her. As Skyla left the parking garage, thinking of Troy’s kiss, she was startled by a man appearing from the back seat of her Jeep, who placed his arm around her neck, strangling her and then abducting her. Days turned to weeks, then to months, as Skyla’s family searched for her. The clues were minimal, the Jeep still missing, and the only sign that Skyla might still be alive was that her credit cards were being used to purchase items for a family.
I enjoyed Overland, and felt that the darker subjects were handled in a respectful manner. Skyla’s strength, determination, and adaptability were what kept her alive, and I appreciated the way she stepped up to care for the traumatized children under her abductor’s care. In Overland, Ramcy Diek has written a fast-paced and intense story of resilience and survival.
I enjoyed Overland, and felt that the darker subjects were handled in a respectful manner. Skyla’s strength, determination, and adaptability were what kept her alive, and I appreciated the way she stepped up to care for the traumatized children under her abductor’s care. In Overland, Ramcy Diek has written a fast-paced and intense story of resilience and survival.
November 16, 2020
Indie author, Ramcy Diek, will have your heart pumping and the pages flipping as you race through, ‘Overland,’ attempting to find out if Skyla survives her terrifying abduction.
For Skyla Overland, “How nice to see you again!” doesn’t evoke the type of response you’d normally expect to give. Especially not when it’s hissed at you, in the dark, from behind you, when your hands are tied behind your back. Especially NOT when it’s your kidnapper speaking. What a Thanksgiving this turned out to be! First Troy, the office manager, hugs and kisses her passionately as she’s leaving work at Overland Insurance and then THIS. She should have listened to her instinct. She definitely was being followed. Where is he taking her? Will anyone find her?
The layers of mystery and plot twists are what will keep readers involved in the storyline. Diek has produced a heart-thumping dramatic thriller that begs to be made into a movie! It forces one to realize that revenge is a double-edged sword and often, in the heat of the moment, our only thought is about ourselves and how we’ll feel vindicated, not the others who will most definitely be affected. Skyla’s choice 6 years ago came back to haunt her when she least expected it. Now she comes face to face with the reality of her choice, even though it was the right one, and discovers how it affected innocent people.
Published on November 10, 2020, this town’s secrets and captive trauma are ready for you to uncover.
Please carefully read the author's note before commencing reading as this book contains triggers.
Thank you to Ramcy Diek, Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
For Skyla Overland, “How nice to see you again!” doesn’t evoke the type of response you’d normally expect to give. Especially not when it’s hissed at you, in the dark, from behind you, when your hands are tied behind your back. Especially NOT when it’s your kidnapper speaking. What a Thanksgiving this turned out to be! First Troy, the office manager, hugs and kisses her passionately as she’s leaving work at Overland Insurance and then THIS. She should have listened to her instinct. She definitely was being followed. Where is he taking her? Will anyone find her?
The layers of mystery and plot twists are what will keep readers involved in the storyline. Diek has produced a heart-thumping dramatic thriller that begs to be made into a movie! It forces one to realize that revenge is a double-edged sword and often, in the heat of the moment, our only thought is about ourselves and how we’ll feel vindicated, not the others who will most definitely be affected. Skyla’s choice 6 years ago came back to haunt her when she least expected it. Now she comes face to face with the reality of her choice, even though it was the right one, and discovers how it affected innocent people.
Published on November 10, 2020, this town’s secrets and captive trauma are ready for you to uncover.
Please carefully read the author's note before commencing reading as this book contains triggers.
Thank you to Ramcy Diek, Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2020
A strong tale of hatred and revenge set in the Pacific northwest of America. Bjorn Rikkerson blames the wealthy Overland family for his family's destitution following a legal wrangle. He decides to take revenge by kidnapping Skyla Overland, whose father owns the insurance company that ruined him. Doubting the police will have enough manpower to save his daughter, her father Harold hires a private investigator, Kim. Office manager, Troy, is in love with Skyla so also desperate to get her back safely. The story is all the more poignant because it is set at Thanksgiving, usually a happy family time. Also, the kidnapper's neglected young children are with Sklya throughout her ordeal. This is a compulsive reading experience that you want to read quickly to find out if she makes it through this traumatic experience. Just be aware that it contains sexual and mental abuse. Great ending though!
December 28, 2020
A woman is abducted and forced to look after the 3 children of a deranged man in a remote wilderness cabin. She is subjected to his abuse and cruelty while trying to keep his children alive in the harsh environment. Her empathy for the children brings welcome warmth to an otherwise harrowing tale. The parallel stories of her struggle and the search to find her work well in the story. I found this book a page turner and read it in a day. It flows along at a good pace and I was pleased it resolved with the outcome for all the key characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 24, 2020
Disturbingly-fantastic and shockingly-twisted! Intense and riveting! Compulsive and gripping! Will keep you swiping the pages furiously. Suspenseful and addictive! Dark and complex! If you like dark and twisted reads as much as I do, you can't go wrong with this book! This book brings it ALL! Truly a MUST for your TBR list!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
November 23, 2020
Overland by Ramcy Diek was a surprisingly good suspense novel. This book kept my interest from the first page. There are some possible trigger items such as rape and child abuse. I enjoyed the ending, but I don't want to give the story away. I will be reading more books by this author. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 22, 2020
Wow, a real emotional rollercoaster of a book with plenty of tension, highs and lows. It combined my favourite genres seamlessly, offering the best qualities of a crime thriller with a dash of romance. I was captivated from start to finish and felt myself very involved and rooting for the main character. I enjoyed it so much that I pretty much read it in one sitting as I *needed* to know how it finished.
December 28, 2020
A great winter read. Not for the faint hearted, this novel takes you on a ride with Skyla as a past decision she had made stirs up horrifying ideas in the mind of a deranged man. Sit tight to see how Skyla fairs.
December 10, 2020
Ramcy Diek is a new author to me so when I read the blurb about this one it was a no brainer that I just had to read it. Overland was even better that I had initially thought. It was wild, twisted, suspenseful and down right intense. This book isn't for the faint of heart as it has some really dark and disturbing scenes but it also had some very sweet and emotional parts. I absolutely loved everything about it. I'm really looking forward to reading more books by this author.
November 9, 2020
Once started reading Overland, it was hard to put down. This suspenseful read is made more enjoyable and engaging as we learn to know the many well-defined personalities and their ongoing subplots. Overland is a must-read for the Fall!
November 9, 2020
Right from the first page, you are gripped by the twists and turns of this story. You get into the characters and can’t wait to read on. I have to read the next chapter..then, be prepared for the book to slap you in the face, I couldn’t put it down
January 30, 2021
This thriller kept me engaged throughout. I kind of knew it would all work out in the end, but the stress was almost palpable. Good, tight writing and well-developed characters mad this book one that was hard to put down. My heart just ached for those poor, dear children.
I look forward to tackling another book by this author soon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I look forward to tackling another book by this author soon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 7, 2020
Skyla has an altercation at the grocery store. This, with a bruiser who seems to be abusive. Since then, she has the feeling of being followed. She cannot shake it - even at her company's Thanksgiving party...
Troy, hand-picked by her father (owner of the insurance business - Overland) has worked there a number of years -as has Skye. A romantic moment is shared between the two of them. Following this, Skye brings the party's leftovers to the close homeless shelter...
A poignant story that is quite dark. Personally, I found myself more and more interested as the plot developed.
Many Thanks to Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for a good read.
Troy, hand-picked by her father (owner of the insurance business - Overland) has worked there a number of years -as has Skye. A romantic moment is shared between the two of them. Following this, Skye brings the party's leftovers to the close homeless shelter...
A poignant story that is quite dark. Personally, I found myself more and more interested as the plot developed.
Many Thanks to Acorn Publishing and NetGalley for a good read.
April 15, 2021
Impossible to put down…suspenseful, scary, heartbreaking, beautiful!
Warning: When the author describes her book as a “Dark Romantic Suspense Thriller” that is only part of the story. There is sexual, emotional and physical abuse. Just be aware. Having said that, this was one book that I truly could not stop reading. Now I feel so sorry the book is finished but at the same time happy that everything was resolved to my liking. Well-written and cleverly plotted.
Skyla Overland is looking forward to this holiday season when she hopes to spend some time with her “perfect” boyfriend, Edmund. With Troy, a good friend and co-worker, she’s helped with the Thanksgiving party at Overland Insurance, a family business started by her grandfather. Troy is sweet, attentive, good-looking, hard-working but quite often disheveled in his appearance which is somewhat endearing to Skyla. But things change quickly when he kisses her as he’s helping load her car with leftovers from their office party for the homeless shelter. This is confusing to Skyla but what she has in store is far scarier to contemplate. An old nemesis has returned and has plans for Skyla that she will not like! In the end, who does Skyla dream about coming home to?
Oh. My. Word. This was a fantastic read. I love her strength in adversity and the love she showed HIS children. Can you imagine? Learning to love the children of your abuser. Beautiful ending. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens and give it 7 stars!
Warning: When the author describes her book as a “Dark Romantic Suspense Thriller” that is only part of the story. There is sexual, emotional and physical abuse. Just be aware. Having said that, this was one book that I truly could not stop reading. Now I feel so sorry the book is finished but at the same time happy that everything was resolved to my liking. Well-written and cleverly plotted.
Skyla Overland is looking forward to this holiday season when she hopes to spend some time with her “perfect” boyfriend, Edmund. With Troy, a good friend and co-worker, she’s helped with the Thanksgiving party at Overland Insurance, a family business started by her grandfather. Troy is sweet, attentive, good-looking, hard-working but quite often disheveled in his appearance which is somewhat endearing to Skyla. But things change quickly when he kisses her as he’s helping load her car with leftovers from their office party for the homeless shelter. This is confusing to Skyla but what she has in store is far scarier to contemplate. An old nemesis has returned and has plans for Skyla that she will not like! In the end, who does Skyla dream about coming home to?
Oh. My. Word. This was a fantastic read. I love her strength in adversity and the love she showed HIS children. Can you imagine? Learning to love the children of your abuser. Beautiful ending. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens and give it 7 stars!
February 24, 2021
This book starts off with the main character Skyla organizing and preparing to attend her Christmas office party. Skyla has been feeling like she has been being watched for several days leading up to the office party. While preparing to leave the party and drop off the leftover food from the party to a local shelter Skyla is kidnapped by a stranger who has hidden in the backseat of her car. The kidnapper makes Skyla drive to a location to get rid of her car and then makes her get in his car. Skyla is taken to a remote cabin and finds herself in the presence of kids; a boy and two girls. Skyla soon realizes that she is a prisoner and that she is expected to be a mother to these three little kids that she encounters. Also, that the kidnapper has other thoughts on what he expects from her. Throughout the book Skyla struggles with wanting to find her freedom and making her way back to her family or staying to protect the children that she has come to love. Skyla experiences hardships and trauma at the hands of her abductor that makes her even more determined to succeed in her plan to escape and take the kids with her. She knows that she will only have one opportunity to get away and she waits for the opportunity to present itself. The book is well written, captivating, and fast moving. Just what I needed to do, escape into a good story. I will check out other books by Ramcy Diek. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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