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The Island
The Island - where everyone knows everyone, and secrets are impossible to keep...
‘Be careful, you don’t know them as well as you think. Remember - anyone can kill.’
Juliet has returned to the Isle of Wight from years abroad to visit her sick father and to be reunited with her three sisters – Cassie, a professional musician who seems to have lost her way in life, Mira, who is profoundly deaf, is married to the local vicar but their relationship is falling apart, and Rosalind, glamorous and charming but now deeply unhappy and secretive about her life.
As Juliet’s father lies dying, he issues her with a warning. There is a killer on the loose, and they may be closer than she can ever imagine. He anxiously tells Juliet that he confided a family secret in son-in-law Rhys, and now regrets ever saying a word.
Days later, as the clock strikes one in the morning, a man comes out of Rhys’s church, walks along the path and is run down by a car driven by an unidentified person. When the finger of suspicion points to Juliet, she realises the only way to clear her name is to uncover the secrets her family has been keeping from her for years. But with a killer on the loose, danger is getting closer all the time…
The Island is set on the Isle of Wight - insular, claustrophobic, and where secrets are hard to keep. Mary Grand's heart-stopping who-dunnits are perfect for fans of Louise Candlish. Agatha Christie and Lucy Foley.
‘Be careful, you don’t know them as well as you think. Remember - anyone can kill.’
Juliet has returned to the Isle of Wight from years abroad to visit her sick father and to be reunited with her three sisters – Cassie, a professional musician who seems to have lost her way in life, Mira, who is profoundly deaf, is married to the local vicar but their relationship is falling apart, and Rosalind, glamorous and charming but now deeply unhappy and secretive about her life.
As Juliet’s father lies dying, he issues her with a warning. There is a killer on the loose, and they may be closer than she can ever imagine. He anxiously tells Juliet that he confided a family secret in son-in-law Rhys, and now regrets ever saying a word.
Days later, as the clock strikes one in the morning, a man comes out of Rhys’s church, walks along the path and is run down by a car driven by an unidentified person. When the finger of suspicion points to Juliet, she realises the only way to clear her name is to uncover the secrets her family has been keeping from her for years. But with a killer on the loose, danger is getting closer all the time…
The Island is set on the Isle of Wight - insular, claustrophobic, and where secrets are hard to keep. Mary Grand's heart-stopping who-dunnits are perfect for fans of Louise Candlish. Agatha Christie and Lucy Foley.
386 pages, ebook
First published June 24, 2021
261 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Mary Grand
19 books270 followersI grew up in Wales. Later I taught in London and then worked with Deaf Children in Hastings. I now live on the beautiful Isle of Wight with my family.
I am published by Boldwood Books and write murder mystery, whodunnits, set on the Isle of Wight. The House Party was published in July 2020
The next 'The Island' will be published on June 24th, 2021.
Previously I published three novels, Free to Be Tegan, Hidden Chapters and Behind the Smile. I have also written two anthologies of short stories, Making Changes and Catching the light is a FREE download.
I would love to hear from you on my blog here on Goodreads.
I am published by Boldwood Books and write murder mystery, whodunnits, set on the Isle of Wight. The House Party was published in July 2020
The next 'The Island' will be published on June 24th, 2021.
Previously I published three novels, Free to Be Tegan, Hidden Chapters and Behind the Smile. I have also written two anthologies of short stories, Making Changes and Catching the light is a FREE download.
I would love to hear from you on my blog here on Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
March 18, 2022
Juliet’s rush to return home to the Isle of Wight after two years teaching in China, found her grateful she’d arrived in time. Her father had been involved in a serious accident and was close to death, but she was able to speak to him briefly when she arrived. Some of the things he was saying were strange to Juliet, but was it mutterings of a confused mind, or genuine concerns he’d wanted to tell her? When he died, Juliet, along with her sisters Cassie, Mira and Rosalind, and their mother, were devastated. The shock and grief would take a long time to leave them.
Some days after the funeral, the family came together for Rosalind’s 21st birthday. Rhys, Mira’s husband and the local vicar, was there but left to fulfil his duties at the church later that evening. When Mira was unable to raise him the following morning, she and Juliet walked up to the church, never expecting to find Rhys’ body outside the church in the long grass. As the police investigated, their suspicions fell on each member of Juliet’s family – including Juliet. She was determined to discover who had killed Rhys, and looked back to just over twenty years prior to another hit-n-run where the perpetrator had never been found. Were the two connected? Was Juliet placing herself in danger with all the questions she was asking?
The Island by Mary Grand is an involved, suspenseful and twisty psychological thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed. Although there are quite a few characters in the novel, I had no trouble keeping up with them. I did find Juliet to be increasingly invasive and wondered at her putting herself in so much danger with a killer out and about. She was alienating everyone but she didn’t seem to realise she was doing it. An excellent, engrossing read, The Island is one I recommend.
Some days after the funeral, the family came together for Rosalind’s 21st birthday. Rhys, Mira’s husband and the local vicar, was there but left to fulfil his duties at the church later that evening. When Mira was unable to raise him the following morning, she and Juliet walked up to the church, never expecting to find Rhys’ body outside the church in the long grass. As the police investigated, their suspicions fell on each member of Juliet’s family – including Juliet. She was determined to discover who had killed Rhys, and looked back to just over twenty years prior to another hit-n-run where the perpetrator had never been found. Were the two connected? Was Juliet placing herself in danger with all the questions she was asking?
The Island by Mary Grand is an involved, suspenseful and twisty psychological thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed. Although there are quite a few characters in the novel, I had no trouble keeping up with them. I did find Juliet to be increasingly invasive and wondered at her putting herself in so much danger with a killer out and about. She was alienating everyone but she didn’t seem to realise she was doing it. An excellent, engrossing read, The Island is one I recommend.
June 11, 2021
Juliet has returned to the Isle of Wight from years abroad to visit her sick father and be reunited with her three sisters - Cassie, a professional musician who seems to have lost her way in life. Mira, who is profoundly deaf, is married to the local vicar, but their relationship is falling apart. Rosalind, glamorous and charming but deeply unhappy and secretive. As Juliet's father lies dying, he warns her that there is a killer on the loose, and they may be closer than she thinks. Days later, at 1am, a man walks out of Rhys's church and is knocked down by an unidentified driver. Suspicion soon points to Juliet,
This is a gripping, steady paced and twist filled read. It's a well written whodunit where nearly everyone is a suspect. I was hooked from the first chapter. needing to find out exactly what was going on. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, something was revealed to make me change my mind. I did eventually get it right, but not until nearer the end. I've been to the Isle of Wight a couple of times and the author describes it perfectly. This book held my attention throughout.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #MaryGrand for my ARC of #TheIsland in exchange for an honest review.
This is a gripping, steady paced and twist filled read. It's a well written whodunit where nearly everyone is a suspect. I was hooked from the first chapter. needing to find out exactly what was going on. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, something was revealed to make me change my mind. I did eventually get it right, but not until nearer the end. I've been to the Isle of Wight a couple of times and the author describes it perfectly. This book held my attention throughout.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #MaryGrand for my ARC of #TheIsland in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2021
I felt frustrated by the dialogue in this novel. On the one hand, I thought there was far too much chatter and not much action going on. However, it felt that there were many scenes where conversations did not reach a natural conclusion and characters would move off without answering key questions. Perhaps this was a method of increasing tension but I just felt irritated that the plot had not progressed.
Set on the Isle of Wight, we follow Juliet as she returns to her childhood home as her father lies dying in hospital. Being with him in his dying minutes, Juliet’s father tells her disjointed sentences that leave her suspicious of her entire family. After all, the circumstances of Juliet’s father’s hospitalisation are suspicious on their own: he has had a car accident whilst being drunk. For someone who isn’t known for their alcoholism, this and other events cause Juliet to suspect that there is foul play afoot.
This book therefore follows Juliet as she tries to understand what her father’s message was. When her brother-in-law is found dead, this just raises the suspicions for Juliet, especially as it becomes clear that Rhys knew more secrets than he revealed. In other words, secrecy has followed Rhys to the grave and Juliet becomes increasingly concerned that there is more to her family than she knows.
As a result, this book is about Juliet repeatedly questioning her family and actually snooping around her sisters in an attempt to understand what her father was trying to reveal. I did not like Juliet’s underhand measures and felt like some of her investigations were a bit far-fetched – like reading emails on a conveniently unlocked laptop. Throughout the story, it felt like Juliet was constantly peppering her family with questions about their actions and motives and it left me feeling really disconnected with her character.
Yet, despite my dislike of Juliet’s actions and the excessive amounts of dialogue, Grand’s story had me intrigued. As the plot unfolds, not only is Juliet investigating her father’s death and Rhys’s murder, but also a hit-and-run accident that happened in the past. The similarities between the three ‘accidents’ are uncanny and, thanks to Juliet’s suspicions, my finger of accusation rapidly swivelled between all of the characters! Thanks to Grand’s writing, I could not foresee how the story would conclude and what answers would finally be revealed.
I enjoyed the lack of predictions that Grand’s narrative creates. I also liked the setting and thought that it was vividly portrayed. I got a true sense of Juliet’s frustration at returning home, whilst also relishing in known locations being described. I could truly picture the tourist hordes descending on the island and how differently the place feels to the locals once visitors have left.
This was an ok read but I thought all the chat and then the lack of answers really lessened the mystery and suspense that should have been created. Yes, there are lot of twists and turns in the story, but I believed this could have been more thrilling if there were more action and less words.
With thanks to Boldwood books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Set on the Isle of Wight, we follow Juliet as she returns to her childhood home as her father lies dying in hospital. Being with him in his dying minutes, Juliet’s father tells her disjointed sentences that leave her suspicious of her entire family. After all, the circumstances of Juliet’s father’s hospitalisation are suspicious on their own: he has had a car accident whilst being drunk. For someone who isn’t known for their alcoholism, this and other events cause Juliet to suspect that there is foul play afoot.
This book therefore follows Juliet as she tries to understand what her father’s message was. When her brother-in-law is found dead, this just raises the suspicions for Juliet, especially as it becomes clear that Rhys knew more secrets than he revealed. In other words, secrecy has followed Rhys to the grave and Juliet becomes increasingly concerned that there is more to her family than she knows.
As a result, this book is about Juliet repeatedly questioning her family and actually snooping around her sisters in an attempt to understand what her father was trying to reveal. I did not like Juliet’s underhand measures and felt like some of her investigations were a bit far-fetched – like reading emails on a conveniently unlocked laptop. Throughout the story, it felt like Juliet was constantly peppering her family with questions about their actions and motives and it left me feeling really disconnected with her character.
Yet, despite my dislike of Juliet’s actions and the excessive amounts of dialogue, Grand’s story had me intrigued. As the plot unfolds, not only is Juliet investigating her father’s death and Rhys’s murder, but also a hit-and-run accident that happened in the past. The similarities between the three ‘accidents’ are uncanny and, thanks to Juliet’s suspicions, my finger of accusation rapidly swivelled between all of the characters! Thanks to Grand’s writing, I could not foresee how the story would conclude and what answers would finally be revealed.
I enjoyed the lack of predictions that Grand’s narrative creates. I also liked the setting and thought that it was vividly portrayed. I got a true sense of Juliet’s frustration at returning home, whilst also relishing in known locations being described. I could truly picture the tourist hordes descending on the island and how differently the place feels to the locals once visitors have left.
This was an ok read but I thought all the chat and then the lack of answers really lessened the mystery and suspense that should have been created. Yes, there are lot of twists and turns in the story, but I believed this could have been more thrilling if there were more action and less words.
With thanks to Boldwood books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2021
Juliet has returned to the Isle of Wight after spending years teaching abroad. Her father is very ill and Juliet knows she must return home. She also has a mother and three sisters living on the island.
As Juliet’s father lies dying, he issues her with a warning. There is a killer on the loose, and they may be closer than she can ever imagine. He anxiously tells Juliet that he confided a family secret in son-in-law Rhys, and now regrets ever saying a word.
So what is it he wanted to warn her about?
Either no one knows what the warning means ... or they know and they are going to keep their secrets just that .... secret.
And then Rhys is found dead. Her father's warning seems more dangerous, and with a killer on the loose, danger is getting closer all the time.
Family secrets .. family lies .... family cover ups. Family hiding a killer? This is a fast-paced read, full of movement, twists and turns that are riveting. For such a small island, there are many suspects to watch. The ending came fast and furious, and was totally unexpected.
Many thanks to the author / Boldwood Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller / crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
September 6, 2021
The island grabbed my attention right away especially with the audio version I loved the narrator! It was a solid mystery thriller that kept me guessing till the end and alot of family drama between Four sisters their mom and their father passed away after a accident. Its told through Juliet whos determined to find out what has been going on in the Island where she grew up I enjoyed the parts taking about the Island in England or Wales I cant remember im sorry but it kept me on the edge of my seat will be checking out more of Ms Grands books!
June 20, 2021
I'm excited to be taking part in the #BlogTour for Mary Grand's atmospheric thriller THE ISLAND.
Although this author's first psychological thriller "The House Party" still sits on my shelf, I have yet to delve into it so therefore THE ISLAND is my first foray into the writings of Mary Grand and the simply beautifully atmospheric setting on the Isle of Wight. And what a setting it is! It gave the reader that sense of claustrophobia and foreboding throughout as the pieces of the puzzle are slowly pieced together. THE ISLAND simply drips with domestic tension as twist after twist reveals secrets slowly bubbling to the surface. Shadows in the night. Objects go missing. And then...there's murder.
After two years teaching English in China, Juliet returns home to the Isle of Wight after her father's tragic accident which leaves him clinging to life in hospital. Arriving just in time, her father's last words leave her with more questions than answers as he hints at a past death and issues her with a warning to be careful and to look after her mother and sisters. His last wish was to not give her youngest sister the musical box he had painstakingly made for her upcoming 21st birthday, as he had made each one of his girls. For what reason, she doesn't know. He also cryptically mentioned a key which was just as puzzling to her. But his biggest regret before taking his last breath was that he had confided in her sister Mira's husband Rhys, the local vicar, and feared he made a huge mistake in doing so.
Her father's last words were both alarming and confusing but Juliet feels compelled to respect his wishes and take heed of his warning, whatever it may mean. His death has left a gaping hole in their lives as her mother and sisters are filled with grief, each of them dealing with it in her own way. Mira turns to her husband. Juliet finds comfort in old flame Gabriel. Eldest sister Cassie draws her mother closer whilst keeping the rest of them at arm's length. And the youngest Rosalind escapes the confines of the house and the flood of grief that envelops them there. The complexities of the relationships of the sisters reflect their differences and highlight the fact that each of them are keeping secrets. And then Rhys' strange message at the funeral leaves Juliet with a sense of of unease as well as even more questions.
In the midst of their father's death and subsequent funeral fell Rosalind's 21st birthday which slipped by, not unnoticed, but not celebrated either. That came a week later when the family planned to celebrate her "coming home" with a small family party to honour the day Rosalind came home given the circumstances of her birth were a little unusual, having been unexpectedly born when her mother and Cassie were visiting London. What should have been a happy and enjoyable day ended in heated words. Rhys revealed that he was unable to keep the secret their father had imparted on him any longer and gave the family a chance to talk things over before he revealed the secret himself.
But before he can, Rhys is killed in a tragic hit and run outside his church as he left in the wee hours. Who killed him? And was it only coincidence that it happened on the twenty-first anniversary of another hit and run on the island, when Gabriel's older brother Harry had been killed?
Suddenly Juliet begins to look at her family and all those closest to her in a different light. Who had the most to lose by Rhys revealing the secret? To understand that Juliet knew she had to find out what the secret was first before unmasking who could have killed him. She went over events of the evening in her mind and recalled hearing someone leave the house and seeing a shadow walk out their front gate. But as there are no street lights, all she saw was a shadow and had no way of identifying them. She also recalls seeing a light on in her father's workshed out the back. Who would be in there at midnight? And what on earth would they be doing? And she herself remembered how hot it had been that night and how she couldn't sleep, spending time chatting to Gabriel who video called her several times throughout the night worried about his mother Maddie who had been so sick at the time. What did any of this mean?
Despite everyone's wishes that she leave well enough alone, Juliet begins to investigate. And she soon discovers as secrets and lies begin to come to light, so too does suspicions arise.
I loved the setting of the Isle of Wight. The descriptions, the walks, the beach, the stillness, the storms, the breathtaking beauty...made for an atmospheric thriller with an eeriness and a sense of foreboding. It gave the reader the feeling of claustrophobia with it being an island that could see them cut off from the mainland at any time. And those storms were penultimate in their deliverance.
A domestic thriller of a different kind, THE ISLAND is a slow burn that gradually builds in tension creating an atmosphere that will have you looking over your shoulder as you turn the pages. While not a fan of slow burns especially, this one did hold my interest enough to keep me going until I drawn in completely and unable to put it down. The suspense and the tension are palpable to the point of a compelling need to uncover the truth.
There are plenty of twists to keep the reader guessing the killer's identity throughout. I know I changed my mind several times coming back to my first suspect early on and then the author threw in yet another twist to throw us off yet again. I figured out several of the secrets that had been simmering beneath the surface even if it took Juliet a lot longer to twig to the clues I picked up almost instantly. After one secret is discovered, it leads Juliet in another direction to uncover the truth. Even the reader is questioning how well we really know her sisters? Her mother even? But surely...not murder?
THE ISLAND is filled with mystery, suspense and tension throughout and is perfect for those who enjoy an atmospheric thriller without the graphic descriptions of those more gritty in nature. It's a riveting and completely absorbing read that is intense once it gets going.
And of course, I cannot let this review go by without the mention of Lola, Mira's therapy dog. Although she doesn't play a key part, her presence makes a lovely addition. I also enjoyed the normality in which everyone treated Mira and, despite being profoundly deaf, her ability to lip read and converse through sign and voice was a wonderful touch.
Whilst being a new voice in this genre, I think Mary Grand could be a name to watch for that touch of psychological and domestic noir with the atmospheric setting of the Isle of Wight.
I would like to thank #MaryGrand, #Netgalley, #RachelsRandomResources and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #TheIsland in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Although this author's first psychological thriller "The House Party" still sits on my shelf, I have yet to delve into it so therefore THE ISLAND is my first foray into the writings of Mary Grand and the simply beautifully atmospheric setting on the Isle of Wight. And what a setting it is! It gave the reader that sense of claustrophobia and foreboding throughout as the pieces of the puzzle are slowly pieced together. THE ISLAND simply drips with domestic tension as twist after twist reveals secrets slowly bubbling to the surface. Shadows in the night. Objects go missing. And then...there's murder.
After two years teaching English in China, Juliet returns home to the Isle of Wight after her father's tragic accident which leaves him clinging to life in hospital. Arriving just in time, her father's last words leave her with more questions than answers as he hints at a past death and issues her with a warning to be careful and to look after her mother and sisters. His last wish was to not give her youngest sister the musical box he had painstakingly made for her upcoming 21st birthday, as he had made each one of his girls. For what reason, she doesn't know. He also cryptically mentioned a key which was just as puzzling to her. But his biggest regret before taking his last breath was that he had confided in her sister Mira's husband Rhys, the local vicar, and feared he made a huge mistake in doing so.
Her father's last words were both alarming and confusing but Juliet feels compelled to respect his wishes and take heed of his warning, whatever it may mean. His death has left a gaping hole in their lives as her mother and sisters are filled with grief, each of them dealing with it in her own way. Mira turns to her husband. Juliet finds comfort in old flame Gabriel. Eldest sister Cassie draws her mother closer whilst keeping the rest of them at arm's length. And the youngest Rosalind escapes the confines of the house and the flood of grief that envelops them there. The complexities of the relationships of the sisters reflect their differences and highlight the fact that each of them are keeping secrets. And then Rhys' strange message at the funeral leaves Juliet with a sense of of unease as well as even more questions.
In the midst of their father's death and subsequent funeral fell Rosalind's 21st birthday which slipped by, not unnoticed, but not celebrated either. That came a week later when the family planned to celebrate her "coming home" with a small family party to honour the day Rosalind came home given the circumstances of her birth were a little unusual, having been unexpectedly born when her mother and Cassie were visiting London. What should have been a happy and enjoyable day ended in heated words. Rhys revealed that he was unable to keep the secret their father had imparted on him any longer and gave the family a chance to talk things over before he revealed the secret himself.
But before he can, Rhys is killed in a tragic hit and run outside his church as he left in the wee hours. Who killed him? And was it only coincidence that it happened on the twenty-first anniversary of another hit and run on the island, when Gabriel's older brother Harry had been killed?
Suddenly Juliet begins to look at her family and all those closest to her in a different light. Who had the most to lose by Rhys revealing the secret? To understand that Juliet knew she had to find out what the secret was first before unmasking who could have killed him. She went over events of the evening in her mind and recalled hearing someone leave the house and seeing a shadow walk out their front gate. But as there are no street lights, all she saw was a shadow and had no way of identifying them. She also recalls seeing a light on in her father's workshed out the back. Who would be in there at midnight? And what on earth would they be doing? And she herself remembered how hot it had been that night and how she couldn't sleep, spending time chatting to Gabriel who video called her several times throughout the night worried about his mother Maddie who had been so sick at the time. What did any of this mean?
Despite everyone's wishes that she leave well enough alone, Juliet begins to investigate. And she soon discovers as secrets and lies begin to come to light, so too does suspicions arise.
I loved the setting of the Isle of Wight. The descriptions, the walks, the beach, the stillness, the storms, the breathtaking beauty...made for an atmospheric thriller with an eeriness and a sense of foreboding. It gave the reader the feeling of claustrophobia with it being an island that could see them cut off from the mainland at any time. And those storms were penultimate in their deliverance.
A domestic thriller of a different kind, THE ISLAND is a slow burn that gradually builds in tension creating an atmosphere that will have you looking over your shoulder as you turn the pages. While not a fan of slow burns especially, this one did hold my interest enough to keep me going until I drawn in completely and unable to put it down. The suspense and the tension are palpable to the point of a compelling need to uncover the truth.
There are plenty of twists to keep the reader guessing the killer's identity throughout. I know I changed my mind several times coming back to my first suspect early on and then the author threw in yet another twist to throw us off yet again. I figured out several of the secrets that had been simmering beneath the surface even if it took Juliet a lot longer to twig to the clues I picked up almost instantly. After one secret is discovered, it leads Juliet in another direction to uncover the truth. Even the reader is questioning how well we really know her sisters? Her mother even? But surely...not murder?
THE ISLAND is filled with mystery, suspense and tension throughout and is perfect for those who enjoy an atmospheric thriller without the graphic descriptions of those more gritty in nature. It's a riveting and completely absorbing read that is intense once it gets going.
And of course, I cannot let this review go by without the mention of Lola, Mira's therapy dog. Although she doesn't play a key part, her presence makes a lovely addition. I also enjoyed the normality in which everyone treated Mira and, despite being profoundly deaf, her ability to lip read and converse through sign and voice was a wonderful touch.
Whilst being a new voice in this genre, I think Mary Grand could be a name to watch for that touch of psychological and domestic noir with the atmospheric setting of the Isle of Wight.
I would like to thank #MaryGrand, #Netgalley, #RachelsRandomResources and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #TheIsland in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 24, 2021
What’s it like to live on the lovely Isle of Wight? The summer beach tourists come and go, but you get to remain on this small bit of paradise. You can enjoy the stunning views of cliffs and ocean and take pleasure in the village life. But what if your family harbors secrets and what if there have been too many puzzling murders?
“The Island” by Mary Grand is her second psychological/domestic thriller. “The House Party” also took place on the Isle of Wight. “The Island” is a separate, stand-alone story. But it still contains all the best of Mary Grand- her ability to create believable, yet flawed, characters, her attention to presenting a vivid feeling of place, and her storytelling skills that build the fear and suspense. “The Island- where everyone knows everyone, and secrets are impossible to keep…”
Juliet is a young adult who returns to her family home and her 3 sisters and mother on the Isle of Wight. Their father and husband is on his death bed and he tries to tell Juliet of some dark secrets. Juliet feels it is her duty to look into these allegations. As she interacts with her family and friends, Juliet realizes that some secrets are deadly, and go back over 20 years. Not only that, but hideous threats hang over Juliet, her sisters, and their mother.
Actually, most of the secrets would have been possible to keep- if Juliet hadn’t been so persevering. Her mother, her three sisters, her sister’s husband, and even Juliet’s husband all have secrets that they will not reveal. But Juliet keeps on digging and questioning to find the horrible truth.
And readers, you will be glued to this story and your heart will race. You will feel as if you are right there with Juliet, as she walks the beaches and cliffs, and ponders all the clues. It is hard to be a wife, a sister, a young woman seeking her place in the world. And secrets don’t help.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
#blogtour
“The Island” by Mary Grand is her second psychological/domestic thriller. “The House Party” also took place on the Isle of Wight. “The Island” is a separate, stand-alone story. But it still contains all the best of Mary Grand- her ability to create believable, yet flawed, characters, her attention to presenting a vivid feeling of place, and her storytelling skills that build the fear and suspense. “The Island- where everyone knows everyone, and secrets are impossible to keep…”
Juliet is a young adult who returns to her family home and her 3 sisters and mother on the Isle of Wight. Their father and husband is on his death bed and he tries to tell Juliet of some dark secrets. Juliet feels it is her duty to look into these allegations. As she interacts with her family and friends, Juliet realizes that some secrets are deadly, and go back over 20 years. Not only that, but hideous threats hang over Juliet, her sisters, and their mother.
Actually, most of the secrets would have been possible to keep- if Juliet hadn’t been so persevering. Her mother, her three sisters, her sister’s husband, and even Juliet’s husband all have secrets that they will not reveal. But Juliet keeps on digging and questioning to find the horrible truth.
And readers, you will be glued to this story and your heart will race. You will feel as if you are right there with Juliet, as she walks the beaches and cliffs, and ponders all the clues. It is hard to be a wife, a sister, a young woman seeking her place in the world. And secrets don’t help.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance review copy. This is my honest review.
#blogtour
July 2, 2021
This is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed it. The story is set on an island called the Isle of Wight.
Juliet has returned to the island to see her sick father and her three sisters Cassie, Rosalind and Mira.
Plenty of secrets and suspense had me page turning as I needed to know what was going to happen next.
I’d say this would make a great beach read.
Juliet has returned to the island to see her sick father and her three sisters Cassie, Rosalind and Mira.
Plenty of secrets and suspense had me page turning as I needed to know what was going to happen next.
I’d say this would make a great beach read.
September 4, 2021
Excellent tale, well written. There were so many plot twists it was hard to put down as each of the changes in plots brought forth new information. Way too many plausible suspects and just as many motives. The characters were well rounded, complete with human strengths and flaws. A good example of a mystery, keep you guessing and add tidbits of information a little at a time. I was surprised at the ending.
June 17, 2021
I loved this one it was set on the Isle of Wight which I know very well especially Brook village . This was a good twisty story which kept me guessing until the end. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
May 29, 2021
Juliet is a young woman who returns to her home on the Isle of Wight after her father’s tragic accident. She arrives just in time to hear his last words and they leave her with more questions than answers. He hints of a past murder, warns her to be careful, and asks her to look after her mother and sisters, saying she is the strong one.
He also tells her he informed the local vicar, Rhys, who happens to be married to Juliet’s sister, Mira. She soon discovers her three sisters, Cassie, Mira, and Rosalind, along with their mother, are keeping secrets. And Rhys’s unusual message at the funeral leaves Juliet with even more questions.
But before she can talk to him, he’s killed by a hit-and-run driver.
Who killed Rhys? And was it only coincidence that it happened on the twenty-first anniversary of another hit and run killing on the island? Despite her family’s wishes that she leave it alone, Juliet begins to investigate.
Grand weaved in enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing the killer’s identity. While I did figure it out, it wasn’t until near the end of the book, which is a plus for me. The author also did a wonderful job at describing the island which puts the reader in the middle of the action.
There were several instances of word echoes, otherwise, I would have rated this five stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
He also tells her he informed the local vicar, Rhys, who happens to be married to Juliet’s sister, Mira. She soon discovers her three sisters, Cassie, Mira, and Rosalind, along with their mother, are keeping secrets. And Rhys’s unusual message at the funeral leaves Juliet with even more questions.
But before she can talk to him, he’s killed by a hit-and-run driver.
Who killed Rhys? And was it only coincidence that it happened on the twenty-first anniversary of another hit and run killing on the island? Despite her family’s wishes that she leave it alone, Juliet begins to investigate.
Grand weaved in enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing the killer’s identity. While I did figure it out, it wasn’t until near the end of the book, which is a plus for me. The author also did a wonderful job at describing the island which puts the reader in the middle of the action.
There were several instances of word echoes, otherwise, I would have rated this five stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2021
Lots of twists and turns in this family-oriented murder mystery. I didn’t guess till the last 2 chapters “who-dun-it.” Clean. Female narrator is a good performer.
July 14, 2021
After years of escaping the small worls that is the Isle of Wight, Juliet rushes home to visit her dying father. But instead of arriving home for farewells and family reunions, her fathers dying words creates a hundred new questions and a hunt for answers. He tells her there is a killer on the loose and it is not long before suspicions begin to arise.
The Island is a gripping thriller about how secrets do not like to be silenced and how they will always catch up. Especially in a small place like the Isle of Wight. From the moment I picked up the book, I was hooked. It was addictive, well written and leaves well scattered breadcrumbs to keep you guessing.
I really enjoyed the writing style of this novel and how easy it was to fall down the rabbithole. I found the author created a twist filled story that had me second guessing my investigative skills. I loved the rush and how hard it was to put the book down. It was the perfect summer evening thrill, one that will leave you praying your secrets have been forgotten and not going to come back to haunt you.
The Island is a gripping thriller about how secrets do not like to be silenced and how they will always catch up. Especially in a small place like the Isle of Wight. From the moment I picked up the book, I was hooked. It was addictive, well written and leaves well scattered breadcrumbs to keep you guessing.
I really enjoyed the writing style of this novel and how easy it was to fall down the rabbithole. I found the author created a twist filled story that had me second guessing my investigative skills. I loved the rush and how hard it was to put the book down. It was the perfect summer evening thrill, one that will leave you praying your secrets have been forgotten and not going to come back to haunt you.
August 3, 2021
I was intrigued with the story behind this family's recent tragedy and was willing Julia to work it all out. Each character was described beautifully, I really felt like I knew them and I was desperate to know their reasons for keeping the secrets they did. Set in the Isle of Wight, this book is a really interesting read and delves into the psyche behind family relationships and their secrets. I was kept guessing until the end and even though I had my suspicions around who was responsible for the murders, I was surprised by how well the author had interwoven the story to get to the point of reveal. A great summer read.
August 5, 2021
Juliet races home from overseas to see her father who has been involved in an accident. She is uncertain if her dad’s final words are just rambling or if something sinister has been happening on the island.
This story was great, the author reeled me in straight away. Lots of things were happening, and I kept thinking that the culprit was someone else, (changed my mind several times during the book) due to things that were answered throughout the book.
Shows even the closest family can have multiple secrets, and secrets that can be so damaging if they come out.
My second of this author’s books read, she is a great thriller writer.
This story was great, the author reeled me in straight away. Lots of things were happening, and I kept thinking that the culprit was someone else, (changed my mind several times during the book) due to things that were answered throughout the book.
Shows even the closest family can have multiple secrets, and secrets that can be so damaging if they come out.
My second of this author’s books read, she is a great thriller writer.
September 9, 2021
The first thing I noticed was the way Juliet's family tended to shut her out like she wasn't a part of them. They sorta treated her like an outsider. This mystery was confusing at times with so many clues that were hard for me to keep track of. There were so many possibilities as to who could be the murderer, because everyone of them had their own damaging secrets. All of them so scared she would find out something that would put them in a bad light. It was fun trying to sort them all out and come up with the major guilty party or parties, and they were all guilty of something! I was somehow able to hit upon who the bad ones were, and as sheer luck would have it I was right! It was a great story!
September 5, 2021
The Island
This is the first Mary Grand book I have read, but having family on the Island, I found it very interesting , it is well written, and I found the steps taken to uncover the murder very good, although I had uncovered who it was much sooner. I’ll certainly look out for further books by this author.
This is the first Mary Grand book I have read, but having family on the Island, I found it very interesting , it is well written, and I found the steps taken to uncover the murder very good, although I had uncovered who it was much sooner. I’ll certainly look out for further books by this author.
August 3, 2021
This is the second book I have read by this author and I loved it . I just kept on wanting to read another chapter
August 17, 2021
An excellent whodunnit! I love a hood mystery and this one gripped me from the start
Well written with a real cast of characters
Perfect read
Well written with a real cast of characters
Perfect read
July 19, 2021
Like The House Party, Mary Grand's previous novel, this is a murder mystery, set on the Isle of Wight, in which any of the main characters could have been guilty. I had my suspicions from early on, but they turned out to be only partly correct. And I was ready to believe they were completely wrong.
The characters were all flawed in different ways and believable. The settings were easy to visualise from the descriptions.
Unlike The House Party, I found the dialogue here to ring true.
This review doesn't include the proof reading.
Highly recommended.
The characters were all flawed in different ways and believable. The settings were easy to visualise from the descriptions.
Unlike The House Party, I found the dialogue here to ring true.
This review doesn't include the proof reading.
Highly recommended.
June 10, 2021
A gripping read, full of twists and turns that had me guessing until the end! Lovely setting, too.
May 25, 2021
Set on the lovely Isle of Wight, this book drips with atmosphere, village mentality and domestic tension. The twists keep coming as secrets bubble to the surface. Objects go missing. And then there's murder.
Juilet reunites with her mom and three sisters Cassie, Mira and Rosalind after working away from home. Her dad is very sick but tells her something alarming and confusing. Naturally, she is compelled to act on his message. After his death his wife is distraught and daughters are awash with grief and each deals with it in her own way. At first Mira turns to her husband, the vicar. Juliet finds comfort in her friend Gabriel. The other sisters have a bit more complex relationships. In some ways this is an arms-length family though in others they are close. But their lies pile higher and higher and suspicions arise. Not only that but villagers know each other's business in five minutes flat. Life becomes dangerous.
Thriller and mystery readers ought to read this suspenseful book. It is not gritty or graphic and really quite riveting. I hope to read more in future by Mary Grand!
My sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arresting book.
Don't forget! Come back to your Review on the pub date, 24 Jun 2021, to post to these retailers.
Juilet reunites with her mom and three sisters Cassie, Mira and Rosalind after working away from home. Her dad is very sick but tells her something alarming and confusing. Naturally, she is compelled to act on his message. After his death his wife is distraught and daughters are awash with grief and each deals with it in her own way. At first Mira turns to her husband, the vicar. Juliet finds comfort in her friend Gabriel. The other sisters have a bit more complex relationships. In some ways this is an arms-length family though in others they are close. But their lies pile higher and higher and suspicions arise. Not only that but villagers know each other's business in five minutes flat. Life becomes dangerous.
Thriller and mystery readers ought to read this suspenseful book. It is not gritty or graphic and really quite riveting. I hope to read more in future by Mary Grand!
My sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arresting book.
Don't forget! Come back to your Review on the pub date, 24 Jun 2021, to post to these retailers.
November 9, 2024
*Secrets*
**3.5 Stars**
This story picked up for me more towards the middle of the book. It felt a bit slow so I added the audio and it was read by Karen Cass. I prefer her in the role of the romantic comedies. It might just be me. The audio was ok and it helped the pace along a bit.
The trouble with living on an island is that everyone knows everyone and they are not shy about adding their own two penn'orth.
In this case the story is based on the Isle of Wight. The story centres around the main character Juliet. She has been living in China for a couple of years and returns home to visit her father who was involved in an accident or was it?….
Juliet has three sisters, Cassie the eldest a musician, Mira married to the local vicar, she is deaf but struggling in her marriage. Rosalind the youngest is the glamorous type with hidden secrets and she is not alone.
Juliet gets to see her Dad in hospital and as his life is about to expire, he whispers in her ear. He tells her not to trust anyone and there are secrets that someone will kill to stay buried. The killer is closer than she thinks. She must trust no one.
Juliet wonders what he is talking about but, it is too late to elaborate. Her father is gone.
Juliet is left to unpick what her father has said and this means ruffling feathers and asking some difficult questions, each question is met with resistance, then she has to be bolder as soon bodies are starting to drop and she is in the firing line trying to save her own life. All the time she is coming across as a nuisance as no one believes what she is saying. Will anyone believe her or come to her aid when she faces terrible danger?…
**3.5 Stars**
This story picked up for me more towards the middle of the book. It felt a bit slow so I added the audio and it was read by Karen Cass. I prefer her in the role of the romantic comedies. It might just be me. The audio was ok and it helped the pace along a bit.
The trouble with living on an island is that everyone knows everyone and they are not shy about adding their own two penn'orth.
In this case the story is based on the Isle of Wight. The story centres around the main character Juliet. She has been living in China for a couple of years and returns home to visit her father who was involved in an accident or was it?….
Juliet has three sisters, Cassie the eldest a musician, Mira married to the local vicar, she is deaf but struggling in her marriage. Rosalind the youngest is the glamorous type with hidden secrets and she is not alone.
Juliet gets to see her Dad in hospital and as his life is about to expire, he whispers in her ear. He tells her not to trust anyone and there are secrets that someone will kill to stay buried. The killer is closer than she thinks. She must trust no one.
Juliet wonders what he is talking about but, it is too late to elaborate. Her father is gone.
Juliet is left to unpick what her father has said and this means ruffling feathers and asking some difficult questions, each question is met with resistance, then she has to be bolder as soon bodies are starting to drop and she is in the firing line trying to save her own life. All the time she is coming across as a nuisance as no one believes what she is saying. Will anyone believe her or come to her aid when she faces terrible danger?…
June 24, 2021
This really was a book that had me hooked from the very beginning, with Juliet returning to the island from her stay in China just in time to visit her father, on his deathbed after a car accident. There’s just enough time for him to tell her some incomplete and tantalising dark secrets from the past, to hint about threat and danger from someone close to home.
We’re then introduced to Juliet’s family – her mother and three sisters – and it soon becomes clear that there are even more layers of secrets than her father was able to reveal. And then there’s another death – a character who perhaps knows more than he should – and Juliet doggedly sets about pursuing the full story, where everyone becomes a suspect, red herrings abound, and the threat to her own safety steadily builds.
The family relationships and all the undercurrents are exceptionally well drawn. Juliet is perhaps closest to Mira, married to vicar Rhys, a gentle soul, sometimes challenged by her deafness – Cassie, the eldest, is rather more distant and a bit on the abrasive side, a gifted violinist whose career has been nurtured by her parents, but now on the verge of a surprising change of direction in partnership with Rhys’ unconventional sister. And then there’s Rosalind, the over-indulged youngest child… they’re all wonderfully drawn and complex characters, and the finger of suspicion points at all of them at different points in the story as we find out more about their secret lives.
This is one of those stories that really gets under your skin, as you share Juliet’s path to uncovering the full story with its surprises in the present day and the echoes from the past. The island setting is integral to the story, and quite beautifully drawn – at first the teeming hordes of holidaymakers, making way for a tight community where everyone knows everyone else’s business, claustrophobic and atmospheric despite the beaches, clifftops and wide open spaces.
I’m not a fan of fast-moving chills and thrills, and found the pacing of this story quite perfect – the tension built deliciously slowly, the characters brought unexpected moments of surprise, and the exchanges between them were fraught with the complexity that only families can bring. Along with Juliet, I found myself desperately trying to unpeel the layers – I did get there a little ahead of her in the end, but that only left me feeling a little smug rather than spoiling the outcome.
I really enjoyed Mary Grand’s last book, but I think this one was even better – driven by its characters with their convoluted relationships but with an intriguing and compelling story steadily unfolding, and some real surprises along the way. I loved this one – very much recommended.
We’re then introduced to Juliet’s family – her mother and three sisters – and it soon becomes clear that there are even more layers of secrets than her father was able to reveal. And then there’s another death – a character who perhaps knows more than he should – and Juliet doggedly sets about pursuing the full story, where everyone becomes a suspect, red herrings abound, and the threat to her own safety steadily builds.
The family relationships and all the undercurrents are exceptionally well drawn. Juliet is perhaps closest to Mira, married to vicar Rhys, a gentle soul, sometimes challenged by her deafness – Cassie, the eldest, is rather more distant and a bit on the abrasive side, a gifted violinist whose career has been nurtured by her parents, but now on the verge of a surprising change of direction in partnership with Rhys’ unconventional sister. And then there’s Rosalind, the over-indulged youngest child… they’re all wonderfully drawn and complex characters, and the finger of suspicion points at all of them at different points in the story as we find out more about their secret lives.
This is one of those stories that really gets under your skin, as you share Juliet’s path to uncovering the full story with its surprises in the present day and the echoes from the past. The island setting is integral to the story, and quite beautifully drawn – at first the teeming hordes of holidaymakers, making way for a tight community where everyone knows everyone else’s business, claustrophobic and atmospheric despite the beaches, clifftops and wide open spaces.
I’m not a fan of fast-moving chills and thrills, and found the pacing of this story quite perfect – the tension built deliciously slowly, the characters brought unexpected moments of surprise, and the exchanges between them were fraught with the complexity that only families can bring. Along with Juliet, I found myself desperately trying to unpeel the layers – I did get there a little ahead of her in the end, but that only left me feeling a little smug rather than spoiling the outcome.
I really enjoyed Mary Grand’s last book, but I think this one was even better – driven by its characters with their convoluted relationships but with an intriguing and compelling story steadily unfolding, and some real surprises along the way. I loved this one – very much recommended.
July 3, 2021
The Island by Mary Grand is a psychological thriller that I have been dying to read. I have read Mary's work before and loved it, so was looking forward to this book.
Juliet has returned from China to the island in time to visit her dad who has had a car accident and is dying. He gives her a warning that there is a killer on the lose and not to trust anyone. Juliets family comprises of three sisters and her mother and as the story moves along Juliet realises there is much more that her father did not have time to tell. Someone who knows more than they should ends up dead so Juliet makes the decision to attempt to discover the full truth. As she investigates she realises absolutely anyone could be the culprit so noone is spared, including family, in her quest for the truth. The further she digs the more danger she is in, will she manage to find the answers or will she end up just another victim?
Mary has again created the most marvellous characters and gone about the relationships within the family perfectly. The sisters all have their own complex personalities and we see these play out as Juliet doubts everyone of them and we find out more about the secrets they are keeping.
The island plays a large part in this book. In one sense an overly busy place with tourists unrelenting while in another it is a small community and one that makes you feel like you can't move without someone knowing about it.
I felt like I was with Juliet as she began to discover the full truth with the shocks as she learns the secrets which have roots in the past. I was as eager as Juliet and was impatient to get to the bottom of it all. As something was peeled away another layer appeared.
This is an intricate mystery wrapped up in a complex family. A great slow burner of a book and one I would recommend.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the copy of the book.
Juliet has returned from China to the island in time to visit her dad who has had a car accident and is dying. He gives her a warning that there is a killer on the lose and not to trust anyone. Juliets family comprises of three sisters and her mother and as the story moves along Juliet realises there is much more that her father did not have time to tell. Someone who knows more than they should ends up dead so Juliet makes the decision to attempt to discover the full truth. As she investigates she realises absolutely anyone could be the culprit so noone is spared, including family, in her quest for the truth. The further she digs the more danger she is in, will she manage to find the answers or will she end up just another victim?
Mary has again created the most marvellous characters and gone about the relationships within the family perfectly. The sisters all have their own complex personalities and we see these play out as Juliet doubts everyone of them and we find out more about the secrets they are keeping.
The island plays a large part in this book. In one sense an overly busy place with tourists unrelenting while in another it is a small community and one that makes you feel like you can't move without someone knowing about it.
I felt like I was with Juliet as she began to discover the full truth with the shocks as she learns the secrets which have roots in the past. I was as eager as Juliet and was impatient to get to the bottom of it all. As something was peeled away another layer appeared.
This is an intricate mystery wrapped up in a complex family. A great slow burner of a book and one I would recommend.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the copy of the book.
August 18, 2021
Juliet returns to the Isle of Wight after many years teaching internationally to visit her father who has been in a terrible car accident. We learn from the start that her father is a drinker, and that local folk are sure that his drinking contributed to the accident. She is also reunited with her mother and three sisters, each with this own personal battle. On his deathbed, her father reveals some very old secrets that Juliet feels she must investigate and gives her a task warning her that it could be dangerous.
The Isle of Wight is vivid. This is a place the author clearly truly loves. The way it’s written conveys the truth of what it is like to live in a truly small town. I’d never really thought about visiting the Isle of Wight before but now I’d kind of like to go there to see the beaches and cliffs. The plot is well laid out and the characters were quite well developed. There’s stress between the characters that one would expect of family members who haven’t seen each other in a very long time. The tension is built on the back of the main character’s internal bias and inability to fully embrace her family in a truly difficult time. Because of the time gone, it feels like we’re getting to know her sisters as Juliet gets to know them. What also rang very true is that everyone has secrets, and we all know that person who hates secrets.
Juliet is that person who hates secrets in The Island. She recklessly dogged to the point of annoying, but her doggedness moves the plotline forward. To be flat out honest, I found her to be a bit stupid but then we all go against our interests at times, and I think that makes the character very real. The Island is well written, intriguing and overall just a really good way to spend a few hours.
The Isle of Wight is vivid. This is a place the author clearly truly loves. The way it’s written conveys the truth of what it is like to live in a truly small town. I’d never really thought about visiting the Isle of Wight before but now I’d kind of like to go there to see the beaches and cliffs. The plot is well laid out and the characters were quite well developed. There’s stress between the characters that one would expect of family members who haven’t seen each other in a very long time. The tension is built on the back of the main character’s internal bias and inability to fully embrace her family in a truly difficult time. Because of the time gone, it feels like we’re getting to know her sisters as Juliet gets to know them. What also rang very true is that everyone has secrets, and we all know that person who hates secrets.
Juliet is that person who hates secrets in The Island. She recklessly dogged to the point of annoying, but her doggedness moves the plotline forward. To be flat out honest, I found her to be a bit stupid but then we all go against our interests at times, and I think that makes the character very real. The Island is well written, intriguing and overall just a really good way to spend a few hours.
July 4, 2021
This book was recently brought to my attention and as an Islander I couldn’t wait to read it. There are very few crime novels based on the Isle of Wight and as Mary Grand portrayed, very little happens here, especially during the long winter months. I was delighted that the book focused on one of the smaller, less well known villages. Brook beach was a family favourite when I was growing up and less crowded than the neighbouring Compton. The story begins with Juliet, returning to the Island from China where she had been working, to visit her dying father. A terrible accident on his birthday had led to his demise. Was his death all it seemed? Juliet’s four sisters and brother-in-law, Rhys, a local vicar, rallied to help their mother. When Rhys, was then killed in a hit and run outside his own church, questions began to be asked.
Juliet wanted answers and set about trying to discover the truth. In danger of both alienating and doubting her whole family, she found comfort by renewing her friendship with local neighbour, Gabriel. Gradually, dark and long held secrets are discovered and in this extremely well conceived and twisty story, shocking and chilling truths are revealed. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and the imagery of the actual and fictitious locale blended seemlessly in my mind to produce perfect scenes. I look forward to reading another by this talented author.
Juliet wanted answers and set about trying to discover the truth. In danger of both alienating and doubting her whole family, she found comfort by renewing her friendship with local neighbour, Gabriel. Gradually, dark and long held secrets are discovered and in this extremely well conceived and twisty story, shocking and chilling truths are revealed. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and the imagery of the actual and fictitious locale blended seemlessly in my mind to produce perfect scenes. I look forward to reading another by this talented author.
June 29, 2021
Packed with secrets, this is a mental work-out!
After working abroad for a couple of years, Juliet returns home to her family in time to see her father in hospital before he dies. He gives her instructions on things he wants her to do, but she doesn’t find out why although she does discover that her brother-in-law is privy to secrets. Her father also warned her there is a killer on the loose – but who, and why? Days later, a man is killed in a hit and run, and when the vehicle involved turns out to belong to Juliet she becomes suspicious of everyone and everything. There is an atmosphere in the family home and Juliet vows to get to the bottom of it all, but doing so may put her in danger; after all, the killer is still out there . . .
Wow, so much going on in this one! I suspected everyone (of everything) and although I did pick up the subtle clues along the way (well, when you read as much as I do, detective skills are honed to perfection), I didn’t solve the big question of who the killer was. There are so many secrets abounding in this family and it makes for exciting and unpredictable reading! With expertly crafted characters and many threads woven into a fine tapestry of a story, I was engrossed from first to very last and quite worn out by the final page. A good read, and an author to follow. 4*.
After working abroad for a couple of years, Juliet returns home to her family in time to see her father in hospital before he dies. He gives her instructions on things he wants her to do, but she doesn’t find out why although she does discover that her brother-in-law is privy to secrets. Her father also warned her there is a killer on the loose – but who, and why? Days later, a man is killed in a hit and run, and when the vehicle involved turns out to belong to Juliet she becomes suspicious of everyone and everything. There is an atmosphere in the family home and Juliet vows to get to the bottom of it all, but doing so may put her in danger; after all, the killer is still out there . . .
Wow, so much going on in this one! I suspected everyone (of everything) and although I did pick up the subtle clues along the way (well, when you read as much as I do, detective skills are honed to perfection), I didn’t solve the big question of who the killer was. There are so many secrets abounding in this family and it makes for exciting and unpredictable reading! With expertly crafted characters and many threads woven into a fine tapestry of a story, I was engrossed from first to very last and quite worn out by the final page. A good read, and an author to follow. 4*.
July 3, 2021
Thank you to Rachel at Rachels Random Resources for my invitation to the the tour and to Boldwood Books for my copy of the book via NetGalley in return for a fair and honest review.
The story begins with Juliet rushing back to the Isle of Wight as her father has been involved in an accident, she reaches the hospital and he tells her something that leaves her with many questions.
She returns to her family home with her sisters and mother and she manages to speak to her brother in law Rhys the local vicar as her father had confided in him also. He is reluctant to share anything further but at the funeral he alludes to something that was shared by Juliet’s father.
I thought that I knew where this book was headed but I was wrong, there is lots of red herrings and intrigue in this story. I don’t want to give too much away but the families who live on the island are very entwined and have a lot of secrets. A family meal turns from a celebration into a tense and acrimonious event with accusations and threats made.Then a body is found and Juliet finds herself under suspicion.
This is a really exciting and gripping read. Suspenseful, tense full of secrets and lies. A perfect psychological thriller I loved it !
5 stars *****
The story begins with Juliet rushing back to the Isle of Wight as her father has been involved in an accident, she reaches the hospital and he tells her something that leaves her with many questions.
She returns to her family home with her sisters and mother and she manages to speak to her brother in law Rhys the local vicar as her father had confided in him also. He is reluctant to share anything further but at the funeral he alludes to something that was shared by Juliet’s father.
I thought that I knew where this book was headed but I was wrong, there is lots of red herrings and intrigue in this story. I don’t want to give too much away but the families who live on the island are very entwined and have a lot of secrets. A family meal turns from a celebration into a tense and acrimonious event with accusations and threats made.Then a body is found and Juliet finds herself under suspicion.
This is a really exciting and gripping read. Suspenseful, tense full of secrets and lies. A perfect psychological thriller I loved it !
5 stars *****
August 5, 2021
Fantastically twisty and packed with mystery and intrigue, I was desperate to learn the secrets that this family had held close. The relationships between the siblings is expertly and brilliantly disclosed, bit by bit and very believable and real. The fierce loyalties, jealousies and love are really well developed and described and I loved the depth of the individual characters, flaws and all.
There was a real sense of fear and danger in the storyline and I honestly didn’t know who to trust or believe most of the time and I was very engaged and immersed in the drama as it built up.
I loved the plausibility of the different possible perpetrators as they were presented, just as I got used to the idea of who the killer was, all changed again and there were subtle clues which became very relevant.
A thoroughly enjoyable read with the added bonus of being set in the stunning backdrop of The Isle of Wight, somewhere I love and am very familiar with.
There was a real sense of fear and danger in the storyline and I honestly didn’t know who to trust or believe most of the time and I was very engaged and immersed in the drama as it built up.
I loved the plausibility of the different possible perpetrators as they were presented, just as I got used to the idea of who the killer was, all changed again and there were subtle clues which became very relevant.
A thoroughly enjoyable read with the added bonus of being set in the stunning backdrop of The Isle of Wight, somewhere I love and am very familiar with.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews