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I Mean You No Harm
The enemy of my enemy is my sister
Career criminal Vic Doloro isn’t the kind of guy you’d send a card to on Father’s Day. Layla Shawn never has. She’s spent most of her thirty-two years estranged from her father and haunted by the mysterious death of her mother.
Then Vic dies, leaving Layla—an unemployed artist—a tempting inheritance of ill-gotten money. Urging her to take the money is Vic’s other daughter, Bette, with whom Layla shares a troubled past. On a cross-country road trip. the two women mend fences, but Layla finds herself caught in the middle of an unsettled and lethal score between her father and a man who knows more than he should about her mother’s death.
As Layla zeroes in on the truth and wrestles her own demons, she finds herself face to face with a killer.
Career criminal Vic Doloro isn’t the kind of guy you’d send a card to on Father’s Day. Layla Shawn never has. She’s spent most of her thirty-two years estranged from her father and haunted by the mysterious death of her mother.
Then Vic dies, leaving Layla—an unemployed artist—a tempting inheritance of ill-gotten money. Urging her to take the money is Vic’s other daughter, Bette, with whom Layla shares a troubled past. On a cross-country road trip. the two women mend fences, but Layla finds herself caught in the middle of an unsettled and lethal score between her father and a man who knows more than he should about her mother’s death.
As Layla zeroes in on the truth and wrestles her own demons, she finds herself face to face with a killer.
281 pages, Hardcover
First published August 3, 2021
11 people are currently reading
4415 people want to read
About the author
Beth Castrodale
5 books145 followersBeth Castrodale worked as a newspaper reporter until her love of books led her to the publishing field. She was a senior editor at Bedford/St. Martin’s and is the founding editor of Small Press Picks. Her short fiction has appeared in numerous publications, including Marathon Literary Review, Printer’s Devil Review, and the Smoky Blue Literary and Arts Magazine. Her debut novel, MARION HATLEY, was a finalist for a Nilsen Prize for a First Novel from Southeast Missouri State University Press, and an excerpt from her second novel, IN THIS GROUND, was a shortlist finalist for a William Faulkner – William Wisdom Creative Writing Award. Castrodale’s third novel is I MEAN YOU NO HARM. An excerpt from her fourth novel, THE INHABITANTS, landed her an artist grant from the Mass Cultural Council. It is slated to be released by Regal House Publishing in the fall of 2024. Get a free copy of her novel Gold River when you sign up for her e-newsletter, at http://www.bethcastrodale.com/gold-ri....
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December 11, 2021
The enemy of my enemy is my sister
Layla Shawn has been estranged from her career criminal father for most of her life. The loss of her mother haunts her as she is left with questions but now answers. When her father, Vic dies, she learns that he has left her money and her half-sister, Bette, convinces her to go on a cross country road trip where they attempt to mend fences while being followed. Both women have demons, but will they have enough chutzpah to go up against the man who has a lethal score to settle with their father.
The premise for me was much better than the book. I did enjoy the narrator who at times sounded like Kathy Bates. But the plot felt as if something was missing. I really didn't care for either woman and was left feeling a little let down when the book finished.
Again, wonderful narrator but this book missed the mark for me.
Thank you to Thank you to Imbrifex Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Layla Shawn has been estranged from her career criminal father for most of her life. The loss of her mother haunts her as she is left with questions but now answers. When her father, Vic dies, she learns that he has left her money and her half-sister, Bette, convinces her to go on a cross country road trip where they attempt to mend fences while being followed. Both women have demons, but will they have enough chutzpah to go up against the man who has a lethal score to settle with their father.
The premise for me was much better than the book. I did enjoy the narrator who at times sounded like Kathy Bates. But the plot felt as if something was missing. I really didn't care for either woman and was left feeling a little let down when the book finished.
Again, wonderful narrator but this book missed the mark for me.
Thank you to Thank you to Imbrifex Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 22, 2022
I Mean You No Harm was the first book I have read by Beth Castrodale. It was fast paced, well written, engaging and suspenseful. The characters were both strong and believable but some were more likable than others. The audiobook was narrated by Christine Williams. She did a good job distinguishing between the various characters and kept my attention throughout her performance.
Half sisters, Bette and Layla, saw little of each other while they grew up. Their lives would have remained that way if not for the death of Vic Doloro. Layla was brought up by her grandparents. Her mother had died when Layla was three years old. Layla’s mother, Sara, was found hanging from a tree. It was determined that Sara had committed suicide. Layla’s grandparents never believed that theory. Until the day they died they never gave up hope of finding their daughter’s killer. Layla was not sure what to believe and was offered little information growing up about what had happened to her mother. Bette, on the other hand, had lived with Vic. Her father and Layla’s father. Vic Doloro, was a criminal and even served time in prison for his masterminding planned burglaries all over the country. His friends and business associates were questionable, to say the least. Bette was subjected to more of Vic’s world than she should have probably been allowed to witness.
With Vic’s death, unemployed Layla, decided to attend his funeral. It had been thirty-two years since she had last seen her estranged father and step sister. The lure of an inheritance and mere curiosity led Layla to the funeral. Layla had recently discovered a portrait her mother had drawn long ago of a man she called “the wolf”. She hoped that Bette might recognize the man her mother had drawn. Layla believed that the man in the portrait was her mother’s killer. She was determined to unravel and solve the mystery of her mother’s death. She was hoping Bette might be able to help her.
Bette focused on making a road trip after the funeral. She needed to get to Phoenix to sell some of Vic’s expensive golf equipment and garden tools in exchange for high tech art supplies for her young special needs son. Layla decided to join Bette on this excursion. It gave the half sisters ample time to reveal lots of things about their separate lives to each other. They really started to bond and acquire real sisterly feelings by the end of the trip. However, Layla discovered soon enough, though, that Bette’s initial intentions for the road trip were not what Bette had led Layla to believe. As Bette and Layla made their way toward Phoenix, Bette had an eye out for a mysterious white car. Were they being followed and if so by who? Why was Bette so nervous and scared of seeing that white car? With Bette’s disclosures about her father’s business associates and dealings, would Layla begin to fit the pieces together and discover the truth about her mother’s death?
I Mean You No Harm by Beth Castrodale was about murder, revenge, sisterly bonding and complicated family dynamics. It was character driven with a suspenseful and very engaging plot. I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook and recommend it.
Thank you to Imbrifex Books for allowing me to listen to this audiobook through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Half sisters, Bette and Layla, saw little of each other while they grew up. Their lives would have remained that way if not for the death of Vic Doloro. Layla was brought up by her grandparents. Her mother had died when Layla was three years old. Layla’s mother, Sara, was found hanging from a tree. It was determined that Sara had committed suicide. Layla’s grandparents never believed that theory. Until the day they died they never gave up hope of finding their daughter’s killer. Layla was not sure what to believe and was offered little information growing up about what had happened to her mother. Bette, on the other hand, had lived with Vic. Her father and Layla’s father. Vic Doloro, was a criminal and even served time in prison for his masterminding planned burglaries all over the country. His friends and business associates were questionable, to say the least. Bette was subjected to more of Vic’s world than she should have probably been allowed to witness.
With Vic’s death, unemployed Layla, decided to attend his funeral. It had been thirty-two years since she had last seen her estranged father and step sister. The lure of an inheritance and mere curiosity led Layla to the funeral. Layla had recently discovered a portrait her mother had drawn long ago of a man she called “the wolf”. She hoped that Bette might recognize the man her mother had drawn. Layla believed that the man in the portrait was her mother’s killer. She was determined to unravel and solve the mystery of her mother’s death. She was hoping Bette might be able to help her.
Bette focused on making a road trip after the funeral. She needed to get to Phoenix to sell some of Vic’s expensive golf equipment and garden tools in exchange for high tech art supplies for her young special needs son. Layla decided to join Bette on this excursion. It gave the half sisters ample time to reveal lots of things about their separate lives to each other. They really started to bond and acquire real sisterly feelings by the end of the trip. However, Layla discovered soon enough, though, that Bette’s initial intentions for the road trip were not what Bette had led Layla to believe. As Bette and Layla made their way toward Phoenix, Bette had an eye out for a mysterious white car. Were they being followed and if so by who? Why was Bette so nervous and scared of seeing that white car? With Bette’s disclosures about her father’s business associates and dealings, would Layla begin to fit the pieces together and discover the truth about her mother’s death?
I Mean You No Harm by Beth Castrodale was about murder, revenge, sisterly bonding and complicated family dynamics. It was character driven with a suspenseful and very engaging plot. I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook and recommend it.
Thank you to Imbrifex Books for allowing me to listen to this audiobook through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 29, 2022
Beth Castrodale's 'I Mean You No Harm' is a smart, creative and engrossing novel. The plot centers around lead character Layla Shawn (32-years-old) who finds herself at her father's (Vic Doloro) funeral after not having any meaningful contact with him for a good portion of her life. The main reason for this is that she holds him responsible for her mother's unexplained death which occurred when she was a young girl.
Vic has left Layla a significant amount of money in his will and she is hesitant to accept due to her ill and unresolved feelings towards him. Her half sister Bette (Vic's other daughter from a different mother) encourages her to take the money. Layla also has unresolved issues with her but agrees to join her on a trip across the country. This proves to be therapeutic for both as they talk about their lives, gaining understanding and appreciation for how the other developed and for who they are as individuals now.
Layla learned more about her father than she ever thought possible and even begins to perceive him with some compassion and sensitivity. Through hearing Bette's explanation for why he appeared to be callous, unloving and self-serving she comes to realize that there is more than one side to every story - and person.
While Layla is coming to terms with accepting a whole new reality of what happened within her family and having to face her own unresolved inner-turmoils she also discovers she is suddenly confronting a murderer. This unfolds with bullet speed and is exceptionally suspenseful and thrilling. I wish this part was more extensive because it was definitely the most action-packed and fun for me as a listener.
Narrator Christine Williams does a fabulous job as the solo voice for all of the characters throughout. Each is autonomous - both male and female - and easily distinguishable.
With much thanks to NetGalley, Imbrifex Audio, and Beth Castrodale for the free audio download in exchange for honest review. All opinions are my own. #IMeanYouNoHarm, #NetGalley, #ImbrifexAudio
Vic has left Layla a significant amount of money in his will and she is hesitant to accept due to her ill and unresolved feelings towards him. Her half sister Bette (Vic's other daughter from a different mother) encourages her to take the money. Layla also has unresolved issues with her but agrees to join her on a trip across the country. This proves to be therapeutic for both as they talk about their lives, gaining understanding and appreciation for how the other developed and for who they are as individuals now.
Layla learned more about her father than she ever thought possible and even begins to perceive him with some compassion and sensitivity. Through hearing Bette's explanation for why he appeared to be callous, unloving and self-serving she comes to realize that there is more than one side to every story - and person.
While Layla is coming to terms with accepting a whole new reality of what happened within her family and having to face her own unresolved inner-turmoils she also discovers she is suddenly confronting a murderer. This unfolds with bullet speed and is exceptionally suspenseful and thrilling. I wish this part was more extensive because it was definitely the most action-packed and fun for me as a listener.
Narrator Christine Williams does a fabulous job as the solo voice for all of the characters throughout. Each is autonomous - both male and female - and easily distinguishable.
With much thanks to NetGalley, Imbrifex Audio, and Beth Castrodale for the free audio download in exchange for honest review. All opinions are my own. #IMeanYouNoHarm, #NetGalley, #ImbrifexAudio
September 17, 2021
Such a thrilling ride!
I gobbled up the book in one sitting. It's so easy to get into and read one chapter after another.
The writing is good for thriller-mystery and it's fast paced.
The characters are introduced in a manner the plot builds up pretty convincingly with the involvement of the characters until the end.
The two awkward main characters are the main highlight of the story. Half sisters on a mission to solve a mystery but eventually finding themselves in a trap of an unexpected killer towards the end.
The second part of the book is pretty thrilling with lots of intense scenarios.
For me, the murder mystery is okayish. However, I feel it's still well-done.
I gobbled up the book in one sitting. It's so easy to get into and read one chapter after another.
The writing is good for thriller-mystery and it's fast paced.
The characters are introduced in a manner the plot builds up pretty convincingly with the involvement of the characters until the end.
The two awkward main characters are the main highlight of the story. Half sisters on a mission to solve a mystery but eventually finding themselves in a trap of an unexpected killer towards the end.
The second part of the book is pretty thrilling with lots of intense scenarios.
For me, the murder mystery is okayish. However, I feel it's still well-done.
December 22, 2021
I Mean You No Harm by Ruth Castrodale, had an interesting plot, but unfortunately for me, fell short of great execution.
This review is for the audiobook version. The narrator for this story, Christine Williams, did a good job with reading and delivery, even though I found there was little to no change for different character voice. Her voice pleasant, easily understood, reading with proper emphasis.
The MC’s background deals with the art world, (hence the interesting cover), bur there was little in the way of suspense. The book read more like mystery, mixed with some family drama, with a grain of suspense. It dragged and felt dull being a slow burn to where I was losing some interest, I skimmed and fast-forwarded (never a good sign). Also, I’m not a fan of unnecessary and excessive f*bombs especially in an audio version in which the listener has no idea it’s coming, therefore, it’s forced upon the ear like a slap. More and more authors rely on what some still feel as an offensive word to show anger, aggression or surprise, and this story was peppered liberally with them.
Sadly, this one didn’t work for me on many levels - unanswered questions, too many holes, it felt incomplete, the swearing.. However, it may appeal to others. Perhaps, I was just the wrong audience.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the providing an AAC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
This review is for the audiobook version. The narrator for this story, Christine Williams, did a good job with reading and delivery, even though I found there was little to no change for different character voice. Her voice pleasant, easily understood, reading with proper emphasis.
The MC’s background deals with the art world, (hence the interesting cover), bur there was little in the way of suspense. The book read more like mystery, mixed with some family drama, with a grain of suspense. It dragged and felt dull being a slow burn to where I was losing some interest, I skimmed and fast-forwarded (never a good sign). Also, I’m not a fan of unnecessary and excessive f*bombs especially in an audio version in which the listener has no idea it’s coming, therefore, it’s forced upon the ear like a slap. More and more authors rely on what some still feel as an offensive word to show anger, aggression or surprise, and this story was peppered liberally with them.
Sadly, this one didn’t work for me on many levels - unanswered questions, too many holes, it felt incomplete, the swearing.. However, it may appeal to others. Perhaps, I was just the wrong audience.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the providing an AAC in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.
March 1, 2021
Raised by her grandparents, Layla knows and feels personal hardships early on from her mom’s apparent suicide and her estranged corrupt father leaving her. After her father’s funeral, she sets out on a road trip with her half sister, Bette, for what she thought was an art supply trip becomes a revenge, score settling excursion after meeting a man that appears to know a lot more about her mom’s death. Could he possibly be her killer?
The trip becomes a much needed interaction with Bette, breaking barriers and building a sister bond. The trip expands deep family emotions and shielded hearts that have been compromised.
This was thrilling and would make a good movie full of suspense.
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
The trip becomes a much needed interaction with Bette, breaking barriers and building a sister bond. The trip expands deep family emotions and shielded hearts that have been compromised.
This was thrilling and would make a good movie full of suspense.
Thank you NetGalley for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 25, 2020
this book seemed to me like a thriller before i started but its definitely more of a mystery.
theres nothing wrong with the story, it is a tale of two sisters, Layla and Betty, attempting to learn the truth about their father after his passing but I could not get into it. idk if im not the target audience for this book but it seemed to drag until the 70% mark.
3 stars for the plot.
theres nothing wrong with the story, it is a tale of two sisters, Layla and Betty, attempting to learn the truth about their father after his passing but I could not get into it. idk if im not the target audience for this book but it seemed to drag until the 70% mark.
3 stars for the plot.
January 24, 2021
Set in the US, this is the story of Layla . She was raised by her grandparents after the death of her mother when she was a child. The book begins when her father dies and she travels to her half-sister's home to attend the funeral . Their father , Vic , was inolved in some shady business and when Bette gives Layla a box from her father with $50,000 she is reluctant to accept it because of her feeling that it came from ill gotton gains.
Layla and Bette undertake a cross country journey, to pick up some art materials for Bette's son , Jake , who has Down's syndrome. Their relationship has never been a good one, but as the journey progresses, they come to understand each other better and Layla gets to understand the family. On the whole, Layla is the narrator, but there are chapters set at different times from the viewpoints of others, which add depth and understanding to the story.
Most of the book is concerned with the journey of the two sisters and the descriptions of this journey are well done, not overdone but enough to give you an impression . On the whole, I liked the conversations between the sister, though a few times it felt somewhat contrived. The most action is towards the end, it becomes a real page-turner .
I liked this book and the characters a lot . It is short , which I appreciated, no endless pages of irrelevant information so it kept my interest throughout. I will look out for more from this author .
Thank you to Net Galley for a great read in exchange for an honest review .
Layla and Bette undertake a cross country journey, to pick up some art materials for Bette's son , Jake , who has Down's syndrome. Their relationship has never been a good one, but as the journey progresses, they come to understand each other better and Layla gets to understand the family. On the whole, Layla is the narrator, but there are chapters set at different times from the viewpoints of others, which add depth and understanding to the story.
Most of the book is concerned with the journey of the two sisters and the descriptions of this journey are well done, not overdone but enough to give you an impression . On the whole, I liked the conversations between the sister, though a few times it felt somewhat contrived. The most action is towards the end, it becomes a real page-turner .
I liked this book and the characters a lot . It is short , which I appreciated, no endless pages of irrelevant information so it kept my interest throughout. I will look out for more from this author .
Thank you to Net Galley for a great read in exchange for an honest review .
February 3, 2022
This is a fast paced story. Two sisters re-connect after the loss of their father. I liked getting to know the sisters as they reconnect. The story flow was easy to follow as it flipped back and forth from current to the past. I was a little bummed we find out the twist well before the MC does but I enjoyed how it all played out. Fast read, very entertaining.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
July 9, 2021
I won this in a goodreads giveaway it sadly didn’t hold me.
December 22, 2021
I received this book from Net Galley, in audio form. A quick listen, this was a suspense/thriller/mystery. The storyline revolves around a young woman who has trouble believing her mother died of a suicide and doesn’t have contact with her father, a mob-type gangster. Her father dies and she reluctantly goes to the funeral. She becomes better acquainted with her step-sister and that’s where the plot thickens.
January 3, 2022
First, I need to thank Netgalley for the opportunity to review this audiobook. I thought the narrator, Christine Williams, had a nice voice to listen to. I have to admit, I did not find the story all that believable. No depth to the characters.
February 15, 2022
Good narrator and a quick listen, but the book fell flat for me. It did not find it thrilling and it did not hold my attention.
August 2, 2021
I feel very ambivalent about this book, I didn't hate it but I didn't particularly like it either. I really struggled to keep reading this as the story just wasn't holding my interest and the characters were all very flat.
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 11, 2022
It was fun listening to this audiobook.. I'm always in the mood for a bit of a mystery and this novel delivered more than one!
When the two estranged sisters Layla and Bette meet again at their father's funeral many feelings.. memories and confessions were uncovered and along the way some critical decisions had to be made by the two sisters.
Though I like the plot itself, unfortunately, I felt the novel was very fast-paced, some parts were rushed from the beginning in how Layla promptly decided to go with Bette.. like hmmm HOW.. and how the author revealed a character identity way too early in the book.
Thank you Imbrifex Audio and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When the two estranged sisters Layla and Bette meet again at their father's funeral many feelings.. memories and confessions were uncovered and along the way some critical decisions had to be made by the two sisters.
Though I like the plot itself, unfortunately, I felt the novel was very fast-paced, some parts were rushed from the beginning in how Layla promptly decided to go with Bette.. like hmmm HOW.. and how the author revealed a character identity way too early in the book.
Thank you Imbrifex Audio and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and publishers for an advanced electronic copy of this book to read and review.
First off, I am a character reader. In real life I’m a total people watcher, so characterization in novels is critical for more. So, lucky for me, this book focuses primarily on characters; the plot line is secondary and at points almost nonessential.
With that said, I was interested in Layla, her estranged half sister, Bette, and the line of characters associated with their shared, career criminal father, Vic. I still felt a little disconnected from them though, even with so much insight into their lives and their past. But out of all the characters, I found Jake, Layla’s nephew, to be the one I cared the most about.
While the bulk of the novel takes place during a road trip from Ohio to Arizona, the substance comes in the stories and flashbacks that occur along the way.
I have seen this book categorized as a suspense/thriller/mystery, but I didn’t find it thrilling or suspenseful at all; instead,, I found that it made me curious. I was curious about how their lives all connected and how the backstories made the characters act and react the way they did. I would agree that it fits more into the general fiction category.
Now, there was a small mystery that I felt was downplayed until the end of the book where there was about 20 pages when said mystery came to its conclusion. In the end, it was my curiosity that kept me hooked.
This book is about family and grief and with a dash of revenge. It’s about choices. The ending was bittersweet,
This is an easy read, but if characters drive your decision to put books on your TBR list, this is a good option. It’s not set to be released until August 3, so take note.
Overall, I’d give this a 3.5/5 because while it peaked my curiosity, I didn’t find it possessed that hard-to-put-down quality.
First off, I am a character reader. In real life I’m a total people watcher, so characterization in novels is critical for more. So, lucky for me, this book focuses primarily on characters; the plot line is secondary and at points almost nonessential.
With that said, I was interested in Layla, her estranged half sister, Bette, and the line of characters associated with their shared, career criminal father, Vic. I still felt a little disconnected from them though, even with so much insight into their lives and their past. But out of all the characters, I found Jake, Layla’s nephew, to be the one I cared the most about.
While the bulk of the novel takes place during a road trip from Ohio to Arizona, the substance comes in the stories and flashbacks that occur along the way.
I have seen this book categorized as a suspense/thriller/mystery, but I didn’t find it thrilling or suspenseful at all; instead,, I found that it made me curious. I was curious about how their lives all connected and how the backstories made the characters act and react the way they did. I would agree that it fits more into the general fiction category.
Now, there was a small mystery that I felt was downplayed until the end of the book where there was about 20 pages when said mystery came to its conclusion. In the end, it was my curiosity that kept me hooked.
This book is about family and grief and with a dash of revenge. It’s about choices. The ending was bittersweet,
This is an easy read, but if characters drive your decision to put books on your TBR list, this is a good option. It’s not set to be released until August 3, so take note.
Overall, I’d give this a 3.5/5 because while it peaked my curiosity, I didn’t find it possessed that hard-to-put-down quality.
January 13, 2021
I Mean You No Harm was a fun mystery novel that kept me very engaged throughout; I read it in less than 2 days and I really enjoyed the plot. Where the book left me feeling like I needed more was the character development. I just didn’t feel as connected to Layla and Bette as I wanted to. I liked reading about them bonding after having a rough history together, but besides that, I did not feel too emotionally attached to either of them, which is a big thing I look for in books. I was slightly more interested in the plot of the mysterious possible murder of Layla’s mother, but it was more of a back-burner part of the story that did not involve much of a plot twist; once she started questioning the motives of a certain someone, I figured out what was going to happen. I enjoyed reading Chapter 14 from the killer’s perspective; I thought that was a really intriguing route to take and I wish there had been more of that because it was a really fun point of view to read from. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to someone wanting a quick, easy mystery read, although there were just a few things that didn’t work for me. 3.75 stars is my rating.
Thank you NetGalley for the electronic advanced reader’s copy!
Thank you NetGalley for the electronic advanced reader’s copy!
December 15, 2020
This novel is great comfort/binge reading. I finished it in two captivating sessions. The main storyline concerns two estranged sisters who are brought together in the midst of some dark criminal machinations. The tentative bonding—and eventual, mutual endearment of the sisters—is crafted with beautiful nuance and empathy. These characters got into my blood. Weeks after reading the novel, I find myself having imaginary conversations with them as though they were real people I had known and cared deeply about. However, the real narrative kicker is how the two (relatively innocent) young women manage the nebulous and menacing criminal elements in which they become unwittingly embroiled. The poignant sibling reunion plus the suspenseful crime drama render this book a genuine page-turner. I think Netflix should buy the option on this novel for one of their limited series; the powerful characters and plot are quintessential Netflix material.
January 13, 2021
Layla, an artist that recently lost her job, is troubled by her mother's death. Although her father, Vic, just passed away, she is unsure of how to feel about his death, especially since he's known to be a criminal. She embarks on a journey with her half sister, Bette, and ends up learning a lot about her sister and her father, who was practically non-existent during her childhood. She also tries to figure out the truth behind her mother's death. I was ready to give this book 4/5 as I enjoyed the beginning. I enjoyed the relationship between Layla and Bette. I started losing interest towards the end. It felt a bit dragged and pieces didn't fall into place.
December 26, 2021
I am a big fan of mysteries and the premise of this story seemed interested.
Story starts when Layla Shawn who has been raised by her grandparents attends their father’s funeral.
Both her parents have been out of the picture.
Her mother apparently committed suicide and her father Vic Doloro is a criminal.
Layla finds out that her father has left her a great deal of money. Hmmm. Since Layla is sure the money was probably not his to give, Layla doesn’t want to accept it. Her half-sister Betty, Vic’s other daughter urges Layla to take the money.
The two go on a road trip and find out things about the past; someone seems to have good reason to believe her mother’s death wasn’t suicide.
Story wasn’t a big Wow for me ~ doesn’t mean someone else will think differently and just love it!
.
Want to thank NetGalley and Imbrefex Audio ~ for this audio eGalley. This file has been made available to me for an honest professional review.
Publishing Date was August 21, 2021
Story starts when Layla Shawn who has been raised by her grandparents attends their father’s funeral.
Both her parents have been out of the picture.
Her mother apparently committed suicide and her father Vic Doloro is a criminal.
Layla finds out that her father has left her a great deal of money. Hmmm. Since Layla is sure the money was probably not his to give, Layla doesn’t want to accept it. Her half-sister Betty, Vic’s other daughter urges Layla to take the money.
The two go on a road trip and find out things about the past; someone seems to have good reason to believe her mother’s death wasn’t suicide.
Story wasn’t a big Wow for me ~ doesn’t mean someone else will think differently and just love it!
.
Want to thank NetGalley and Imbrefex Audio ~ for this audio eGalley. This file has been made available to me for an honest professional review.
Publishing Date was August 21, 2021
October 4, 2021
In her new novel I Mean You Know Harm, author Beth Castrodale creates a cast of strong, believable characters, although not always likeable. The story begins when Layla, an unemployed artist, attends the funeral of her father, Vic Doloro, a man she has seen only a few times in her life, and who has spent time in prison as the leader of an organized gang of burglars. After the services, she sets out on a cross-country trip to Phoenix with her half-sister, who is clearly seriously ill. Along the way, the sisters tentatively begin to know each other, all the while followed by a mysterious white car which the sister, Bette, watches, without telling Layla what why.
As Bette tells Layla more about their father and the men he associated with, Layla begins to put together the pieces of her knowledge of the death of her mother, who was found hanging from a tree when Layla was just three years old. The police said it was suicide, but was it?
Along with the strong sense of being “on the road,” author Castrodale achieves a depth of story and emotions that create action and excitement. The reader is drawn in without realizing how skillfully it happens. Layla, her mother Sara, and Vic’s associate Wes are all artists, a fact which ties the story together. And throughout it all, Layla’s thoughts are drawn to a portrait of a man she thinks of as “the wolf,” a drawing done by Layla’s mother.
This book weaves the theme of family throughout, with a skillfully paced plot. This is a well-written and engaging book, full of tension, with a totally enjoyable story.
As Bette tells Layla more about their father and the men he associated with, Layla begins to put together the pieces of her knowledge of the death of her mother, who was found hanging from a tree when Layla was just three years old. The police said it was suicide, but was it?
Along with the strong sense of being “on the road,” author Castrodale achieves a depth of story and emotions that create action and excitement. The reader is drawn in without realizing how skillfully it happens. Layla, her mother Sara, and Vic’s associate Wes are all artists, a fact which ties the story together. And throughout it all, Layla’s thoughts are drawn to a portrait of a man she thinks of as “the wolf,” a drawing done by Layla’s mother.
This book weaves the theme of family throughout, with a skillfully paced plot. This is a well-written and engaging book, full of tension, with a totally enjoyable story.
Read
January 3, 2022Following the death of her estranged father, Vic, Layla and Bette, Vic’s other daughter, go on a cross-country road trip. With Vic’s history of being a career criminal, travelling doesn’t come easy and the two soon find themselves in the middle of some unsettled business between Vic and someone who might know the truth behind the death of Layla’s mom, years ago.
I thought the premise of this was fascinating and I was easily pulled into the story. Though it would’ve been nice for Layla to have a bit more context on Vic, it was still nice to see her befriend and learn more through Bette. The family aspect was endearing, but I did find myself confused at times regarding the past. It felt like something was missing, though I’m not sure what. I did also enjoy the narration and overall adventure.
Thank you NetGalley for my arc!
I thought the premise of this was fascinating and I was easily pulled into the story. Though it would’ve been nice for Layla to have a bit more context on Vic, it was still nice to see her befriend and learn more through Bette. The family aspect was endearing, but I did find myself confused at times regarding the past. It felt like something was missing, though I’m not sure what. I did also enjoy the narration and overall adventure.
Thank you NetGalley for my arc!
December 7, 2021
Oh my goodness - firstly the narration really suited the book I could listen to this for hours. Secondly what a mind the author had to come up with this absolutely fantastic and so engrossing. Just had to listen to this every spare minute that I could. The story just unfolded and went one way then the other and all the loose ends were tied up.
I must investigate more from this author and narrator.
I was given a free copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own.
I must investigate more from this author and narrator.
I was given a free copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own.
October 10, 2021
In I Mean You No Harm, Beth Castrodale artfully weaves a complicated story of murder, revenge and family drama. After her father dies, protagonist Layla takes a cross-country trip with her half-sister, Bette, to try and retrieve (among other things) some of what has eluded them and their relationship: a sisterly connection and a shared understanding of their father and his challenging past. Their journey veers into nightmare after Bette's health takes a turn for the worse and Layla is forced to make a number of choices that leave her in peril. It’s a powerful read (with lots of great humor!) and also an impressive book, for its brevity, it touches on so many worlds, so much complexity.
December 17, 2021
I have just finished listening to this audiobook and can't say that I overly enjoyed it. I Mean You No Harm tells the story of Layla, estranged daughter of a recently deceased career criminal, and her journey to discover her family and attempt to solve the mystery of who killed her mother.
I didn't find either of the two main characters - Layla and Bette - to be overly likeable and I just couldn't relate well to them. The story was a little flat and I found it to be quite slow paced. The final quarter of the book was the best, and where we learned the truth to the situation.
The narrator was good and it was an 'ok' listen, but not one I'd rush out to buy.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.
I didn't find either of the two main characters - Layla and Bette - to be overly likeable and I just couldn't relate well to them. The story was a little flat and I found it to be quite slow paced. The final quarter of the book was the best, and where we learned the truth to the situation.
The narrator was good and it was an 'ok' listen, but not one I'd rush out to buy.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.
December 2, 2021
Narrator 5 stars
Great voice.
Story 2.5 stars
I didn't hate this story and wasn't necessarily bored, but I also wasn't taken by it. When it ended I was just like ok well onto the next book.
Great voice.
Story 2.5 stars
I didn't hate this story and wasn't necessarily bored, but I also wasn't taken by it. When it ended I was just like ok well onto the next book.
August 13, 2021
This was a very good read. It keeps the reader thinking and wondering all through to the end. I’m usually not a murder/ mystery reader but this book kept my attention right to the very surprising end!!
February 7, 2021
This story focuses on artist Laylah. She was brought up by her now deceased grandparents after her mother apparently took her own life in the local woods. The curcumstances of her death have always been surrounded in doubt. Laylah's father has been absent from her life due to his career choices. You wouldn't describe him as a law abiding citizen, more like some kind of gangster. After his recent passing Laylah reconnects with her sister Bette at his funeral. Along with Bette's son and aunt. During her stay Bette reveals that she is about to embark on a road trip to collect some equipment for her special needs son, so Laylah tags along and uses this as an opportunity to bond with her sister. But has Bette been completely honest about the reasons for her trip? She is also hiding another secret about her recent health issues. What starts as a simple car ride with her estranged sister, turns into an adventure to complete a certain mission, and it looks like the are not alone.
I really liked the characters in the book. They felt believable. You got a real sense of the awkwardness surrounding the ladies and could see the barriers start to fall down.
I found it fairly predictable although there were still a few surprises. But I wasn't disappointed. I found myself shouting at Laylah in my head about the danger she will face, almost like when you watch a horror film and the viewer knows the bad guy is round the corner. It actually added to the suspense.
I enjoyed the relationship between Laylah and Bette's son. Their love and natural talent for art really bonded them and you could see that it would be a really strong relationship for years to come.
This was a quick, enjoyable thriller. Lots of suspense, some exciting developments and also interesting interactions between a split family. It had a sense of duty to loved ones and breaking down barriers to include people into your unit.
I would recommend.
I really liked the characters in the book. They felt believable. You got a real sense of the awkwardness surrounding the ladies and could see the barriers start to fall down.
I found it fairly predictable although there were still a few surprises. But I wasn't disappointed. I found myself shouting at Laylah in my head about the danger she will face, almost like when you watch a horror film and the viewer knows the bad guy is round the corner. It actually added to the suspense.
I enjoyed the relationship between Laylah and Bette's son. Their love and natural talent for art really bonded them and you could see that it would be a really strong relationship for years to come.
This was a quick, enjoyable thriller. Lots of suspense, some exciting developments and also interesting interactions between a split family. It had a sense of duty to loved ones and breaking down barriers to include people into your unit.
I would recommend.
December 18, 2020
This story follows Layla as she attends her estranged father’s funeral. While she is there, she visits with her stepsister, Bette, heading to Pheonix to pick up art materials for her son. Layla decides to join Bette, and while they are traveling, their father’s dark history begins to unfold.
This book did not captivate me. I had a hard time reading it that I had to start over because I felt like I misunderstood what was happening. Considering it’s a thriller, it didn’t feel like a page-turner for me until the altercation at the end. I thought that the overall premise was a bit bizarre and uninspired. Layla and Bette do not have a close relationship, and it seemed so unlikely that they would spontaneously have a family road trip. They reminisced on their first road trip when they were much younger, and it just seemed out of the realm of possibilities to have another.
The ending, which left Layla to fend for herself, felt very contrived. There could have been a much more natural way for this to happen, but it felt forced, and it made me lose any small connection that I had with Layla. We are left with so many unanswered questions about her father, Vic, and his past that I feel like this was a stereotypical mob boss, making the whole thing seem dull. There was nothing new and exciting about this character trope, so much so that he could have been literally anything else and been more enjoyable.
I did appreciate the inclusivity of a character with Down’s Syndrome, I would have loved to see Vic interact with him because it may have humanized him in a way that we never saw from Layla’s point of view.
Thank you to NetGalley and Imbrifex for the advanced copy. I will post my review on Goodreads immediately and my review on Amazon upon publication.
This book did not captivate me. I had a hard time reading it that I had to start over because I felt like I misunderstood what was happening. Considering it’s a thriller, it didn’t feel like a page-turner for me until the altercation at the end. I thought that the overall premise was a bit bizarre and uninspired. Layla and Bette do not have a close relationship, and it seemed so unlikely that they would spontaneously have a family road trip. They reminisced on their first road trip when they were much younger, and it just seemed out of the realm of possibilities to have another.
The ending, which left Layla to fend for herself, felt very contrived. There could have been a much more natural way for this to happen, but it felt forced, and it made me lose any small connection that I had with Layla. We are left with so many unanswered questions about her father, Vic, and his past that I feel like this was a stereotypical mob boss, making the whole thing seem dull. There was nothing new and exciting about this character trope, so much so that he could have been literally anything else and been more enjoyable.
I did appreciate the inclusivity of a character with Down’s Syndrome, I would have loved to see Vic interact with him because it may have humanized him in a way that we never saw from Layla’s point of view.
Thank you to NetGalley and Imbrifex for the advanced copy. I will post my review on Goodreads immediately and my review on Amazon upon publication.
July 3, 2021
I received this arc copy from the goodreads giveaway. My first arc ever! I was so excited when I won but my excitement soon vanished the more I read this book. Sadly, It just wasn't for me...
This story centers around Layla who reacquainted back with her estranged half sister, Bette, at their father's funeral. What follows is a roadtrip to Phoenix while reminiscing on the past, uncovering some of Vic's criminal secrets and drawing conclusions as to how "The Wolf" may have been connected to Layla's mom's murder.
This story dragged too much in my opinion. Although the writing is very good, I found myself bored at times with overly long descriptions of scenes that didn't add anything to the storyline. For instance, Mark Twain tributes? And what his reactions may have been according to each one? Also, I wasn't a fan of the dull dirt road scenery with occasional gas stations. I felt as if I was on this long dragged out trip with them just wanting to close my eyes and fall asleep.
Overall, I wasn't engaged. It felt very dull and flat.There wasn't any suspense except MAYBE until the last few pages (244). I already knew who Sara's killer was by page 126. So I wasn't surprised when they were revealed in the end.
This is more of a subtle mystery with family drama. Others may enjoy this more than I did, perhaps?
This story centers around Layla who reacquainted back with her estranged half sister, Bette, at their father's funeral. What follows is a roadtrip to Phoenix while reminiscing on the past, uncovering some of Vic's criminal secrets and drawing conclusions as to how "The Wolf" may have been connected to Layla's mom's murder.
This story dragged too much in my opinion. Although the writing is very good, I found myself bored at times with overly long descriptions of scenes that didn't add anything to the storyline. For instance, Mark Twain tributes? And what his reactions may have been according to each one? Also, I wasn't a fan of the dull dirt road scenery with occasional gas stations. I felt as if I was on this long dragged out trip with them just wanting to close my eyes and fall asleep.
Overall, I wasn't engaged. It felt very dull and flat.There wasn't any suspense except MAYBE until the last few pages (244). I already knew who Sara's killer was by page 126. So I wasn't surprised when they were revealed in the end.
This is more of a subtle mystery with family drama. Others may enjoy this more than I did, perhaps?
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