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DCI Tom Douglas #10
Odwróć wzrok
Nie pozwól mu się do siebie zbliżyć, bo cię zniszczy.
Nie walcz z nim, bo cię pokona.
Uciekaj. Nigdy nie pozwól mu się odnaleźć.
Myślałam, że jestem bezpieczna, ale się myliłam. Jestem już tutaj stanowczo zbyt długo. Teraz Genevieve nie żyje, a policja jest już w drodze. Czas ruszać w drogę. Muszę trzymać się planu, który opracowałam po przybyciu do tego miasta. Torbę mam już spakowaną. Zawsze tak robiłam. Zniszczę każdy dowód mojego istnienia. Policja nigdy nie może mnie odnaleźć. Jeśli im się to uda, to jemu również. Popełniłam błąd i ktoś musiał umrzeć. Ale to ja doprowadziłam do jej śmierci.
Muszę dokonać wyboru. Jeśli będę dalej uciekać, nigdy się nie zatrzymam. Jeśli wrócę, on każe mi cierpieć. Ile ludzkich żyć może zrujnować jeden człowiek?
Nie walcz z nim, bo cię pokona.
Uciekaj. Nigdy nie pozwól mu się odnaleźć.
Myślałam, że jestem bezpieczna, ale się myliłam. Jestem już tutaj stanowczo zbyt długo. Teraz Genevieve nie żyje, a policja jest już w drodze. Czas ruszać w drogę. Muszę trzymać się planu, który opracowałam po przybyciu do tego miasta. Torbę mam już spakowaną. Zawsze tak robiłam. Zniszczę każdy dowód mojego istnienia. Policja nigdy nie może mnie odnaleźć. Jeśli im się to uda, to jemu również. Popełniłam błąd i ktoś musiał umrzeć. Ale to ja doprowadziłam do jej śmierci.
Muszę dokonać wyboru. Jeśli będę dalej uciekać, nigdy się nie zatrzymam. Jeśli wrócę, on każe mi cierpieć. Ile ludzkich żyć może zrujnować jeden człowiek?
456 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2021
1975 people are currently reading
1419 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Abbott
50 books2,684 followersI was born and brought up in the north of England, and worked for many years as the managing director of an interactive media company. I wrote every day - everything from creative proposals to user manuals - but most exciting of all was writing interactive dramas - including for the Cluedo (Clue in the US) interactive games. I was fortunate enough to sell my company in 2000 and we moved to Italy where we bought and restored an old country house.
I have published six full length novels and one novella, and my seventh Come a Little Closer is due for release in 2018. I now live on the beautiful island of Alderney in the Channel Islands, where I write full time.
Find out more on my website.
I have published six full length novels and one novella, and my seventh Come a Little Closer is due for release in 2018. I now live on the beautiful island of Alderney in the Channel Islands, where I write full time.
Find out more on my website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
January 15, 2021
I was lucky enough last month to receive an advanced copy of Close Your Eyes and once again Rachel Abbott does not fail to excite and entertain.
This is the tenth book in the Tom Douglas series and this one is every bit as good as the previous nine, if not better. What appeals about this series, is that Tom Douglas and his team, although essential to the plot, are not the focal point. It is always difficult to review Rachel's books without giving too much away but three threads are running through this book and as the story unfolds, Rachel Abbott has cleverly woven them into a rich tapestry. She really is a master storyteller.
There are some strands of this book I found uncomfortable, I do not mean this negatively, it is good sometimes that an author stretches our feelings and fears. Again I do not want to reveal too much but the theme of human manipulation is so relevant with everything that is going on at the moment. It does show how easily people can be manipulated to bend to the will of others.
Then, of course, we have our eponymous hero Tom Douglas, the kind of policeman we would all want on our side. he and his Detective Inspector, Becky Robinson, make a formidable pair. It was also refreshing to get to know some of the other characters within his team. No cynical, hard-bitten and dare I say it cliched policeman here. He matches steely determination and empathy in equal measure. No wonder he is so beloved by the legion of female followers Rachel Abbott has.
The characters are well-drawn and some are not as they initially appear. We grow to love some and detest others in equal measure. One again, Rachel Abbott is back to her superlative best with, Close Your Eyes and I can thoroughly recommend it.
Five stars all the way!
This is the tenth book in the Tom Douglas series and this one is every bit as good as the previous nine, if not better. What appeals about this series, is that Tom Douglas and his team, although essential to the plot, are not the focal point. It is always difficult to review Rachel's books without giving too much away but three threads are running through this book and as the story unfolds, Rachel Abbott has cleverly woven them into a rich tapestry. She really is a master storyteller.
There are some strands of this book I found uncomfortable, I do not mean this negatively, it is good sometimes that an author stretches our feelings and fears. Again I do not want to reveal too much but the theme of human manipulation is so relevant with everything that is going on at the moment. It does show how easily people can be manipulated to bend to the will of others.
Then, of course, we have our eponymous hero Tom Douglas, the kind of policeman we would all want on our side. he and his Detective Inspector, Becky Robinson, make a formidable pair. It was also refreshing to get to know some of the other characters within his team. No cynical, hard-bitten and dare I say it cliched policeman here. He matches steely determination and empathy in equal measure. No wonder he is so beloved by the legion of female followers Rachel Abbott has.
The characters are well-drawn and some are not as they initially appear. We grow to love some and detest others in equal measure. One again, Rachel Abbott is back to her superlative best with, Close Your Eyes and I can thoroughly recommend it.
Five stars all the way!
December 20, 2020
Why is it that I can never turn the pages of Rachel Abbott’s books fast enough and yet I finish them way too quickly??? (My husband dropped his jaw when I sighed and said, “You finished that one ALREADY?”) I had all kinds of theories that I knew would be obliterated in the end! With every book she writes, I am reminded time and time again why Rachel is one of my all time favorite authors! I love how Tom and Becky are third person and one of the characters from the case is in first person. It makes me love the characters so much more! I absolutely love Martha and I felt so protective of her throughout the whole book. Her character is so intriguing. As always, I love reading a little more about Tom’s story. I wanted to jump into the book and throttle a few of the characters. Rachel is such a phenomenal writer that she is able to elicit such strong feelings toward characters in her books! She never fails to make me love some and hate some. She makes them like real people who I think about for a long time. Her characters are like my friends.
Close Your Eyes gets 5 massive stars from me and now I’m sad having to wait for her next book!
Thank you so much to Rachel Abbott for the arc of Close Your Eyes in exchange for a totally honest review. It was my pleasure and privilege!
Close Your Eyes gets 5 massive stars from me and now I’m sad having to wait for her next book!
Thank you so much to Rachel Abbott for the arc of Close Your Eyes in exchange for a totally honest review. It was my pleasure and privilege!
August 17, 2021
This is a very good thriller!!!
All the ingredients for a kick ass of a novel are here available...
Wonderful and fantastic written, like watching a film...
Martha and his family caught by deception and malice, victims of a murderous cult!
Bereft of any independent thought, and at the mercy of a sect leader without scruple...
She has to protect her only child against a cult that doesn't yield even to commit murder...
Will she have the strength for a new beginning, and how long will she have to hide...
Some questions and scarring still remains even after many long years...
Then a young woman is killed, police officer Tom Douglas and his team threatening to blow up her cover!
She doesn't have much time, because the eyes of the cult lingers everywhere!
All the ingredients for a kick ass of a novel are here available...
Wonderful and fantastic written, like watching a film...
Martha and his family caught by deception and malice, victims of a murderous cult!
Bereft of any independent thought, and at the mercy of a sect leader without scruple...
She has to protect her only child against a cult that doesn't yield even to commit murder...
Will she have the strength for a new beginning, and how long will she have to hide...
Some questions and scarring still remains even after many long years...
Then a young woman is killed, police officer Tom Douglas and his team threatening to blow up her cover!
She doesn't have much time, because the eyes of the cult lingers everywhere!
October 15, 2023
Labai patiko. Sujaukė protą, buvau apgauta.
R. Abbott knygos tradiciniai tikrieji detektyvai: randamas nužudytas žmogus ir vyksta tyrimas. Labai geri pagrindiniai veikėjai (detektyvai) ir smagu, kad knyga neperkrauta jų asmeninio gyvenimo detalėm. Pagrindinis dėmesys- žmogžudystės tyrimui. Dvi siužetinės linijos: dabar - nusikaltimo tyrimas ir tada - praeities skeletai, kurie mane ir supainiojo.
Jokių žiaurumų, šaudymų gaudymų, jokio karštligiško skubėjimo, bet uch kaip įtraukiančiai ir gerai viskas sudėliota, supainiota ir galiausiai išvyniota!
R. Abbott knygos tradiciniai tikrieji detektyvai: randamas nužudytas žmogus ir vyksta tyrimas. Labai geri pagrindiniai veikėjai (detektyvai) ir smagu, kad knyga neperkrauta jų asmeninio gyvenimo detalėm. Pagrindinis dėmesys- žmogžudystės tyrimui. Dvi siužetinės linijos: dabar - nusikaltimo tyrimas ir tada - praeities skeletai, kurie mane ir supainiojo.
Jokių žiaurumų, šaudymų gaudymų, jokio karštligiško skubėjimo, bet uch kaip įtraukiančiai ir gerai viskas sudėliota, supainiota ir galiausiai išvyniota!
February 4, 2021
I would like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
I was really looking forward to read another book featuring DCI Tom Douglas, so much that I was afraid my expectations were too high. But, once again, this book didn't disappoint me. It was the perfect read and it kept me turning the pages until I was done with it.
This novel offers the perfect balance between the present time, flashbacks into the past of one of the characters, and glimpses into what's going on in Tom's life at the moment. The going back and forth in time didn't bother me because the transitions were smooth and they gave the right amount of information, allowing you to play detective while you read. I love doing that. I like my thrillers to keep me guessing and trying to predict what will happen, and that's why I have enjoyed this book so much. If I have to be extra picky, I can say that I did guess correctly a couple of details, but it didn't make the story predictable.
It's a great story with great insight into the psyche of the main characters. A book that will stay with you for some time after you finish reading it.
Overall, a fantastic book with memorable characters that will make you feel all kinds of emotion. Perfect for an enjoyable weekend of cuddling in the sofa with a cup of tea.
I was really looking forward to read another book featuring DCI Tom Douglas, so much that I was afraid my expectations were too high. But, once again, this book didn't disappoint me. It was the perfect read and it kept me turning the pages until I was done with it.
This novel offers the perfect balance between the present time, flashbacks into the past of one of the characters, and glimpses into what's going on in Tom's life at the moment. The going back and forth in time didn't bother me because the transitions were smooth and they gave the right amount of information, allowing you to play detective while you read. I love doing that. I like my thrillers to keep me guessing and trying to predict what will happen, and that's why I have enjoyed this book so much. If I have to be extra picky, I can say that I did guess correctly a couple of details, but it didn't make the story predictable.
It's a great story with great insight into the psyche of the main characters. A book that will stay with you for some time after you finish reading it.
Overall, a fantastic book with memorable characters that will make you feel all kinds of emotion. Perfect for an enjoyable weekend of cuddling in the sofa with a cup of tea.
February 4, 2021
Wow!
I’ve just finished this (an advanced copy) and once again Rachel has woven together a fantastic story.
What secret is Martha hiding? Who killed Genevieve? What happened at Lakeside?
Once again we meet Tom Douglas, Becky and the team as they investigate the murder of Genevieve and the disappearance of Martha.
Although this is the 9th book in the Tom Douglas series it would hold it’s own as a stand-alone due to Rachel’s clever writing and back history.
Told from the perspectives of Martha, Tom and his investigation and a flashback to the past Rachel has cleverly brought it all together to create another hard to put down book.
I would like to thank Rachel and her team of Expert Witnesses for the opportunity to read this extra early
I would also like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
I’ve just finished this (an advanced copy) and once again Rachel has woven together a fantastic story.
What secret is Martha hiding? Who killed Genevieve? What happened at Lakeside?
Once again we meet Tom Douglas, Becky and the team as they investigate the murder of Genevieve and the disappearance of Martha.
Although this is the 9th book in the Tom Douglas series it would hold it’s own as a stand-alone due to Rachel’s clever writing and back history.
Told from the perspectives of Martha, Tom and his investigation and a flashback to the past Rachel has cleverly brought it all together to create another hard to put down book.
I would like to thank Rachel and her team of Expert Witnesses for the opportunity to read this extra early
I would also like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
December 28, 2020
This is Rachel Abbott’s usual clever interweaving of timelines and stories which draw the reader in. Martha Porter is suspected of a murder, and seems to incriminate herself by covering her tracks and disappearing. As the story progresses, we, and Tom and Becky, begin to see what’s really been happening. The author’s writing is deceptively easy to read (and it takes hard work to write like that) so I was swallowed up by this book and surprised by the ending. Another triumph!
April 22, 2023
I do enjoy a cult thriller! 🤣 Martha Porter has been hiding for years, as a result of her experience at Lakeside but now with a murder inquiry at her workplace she needs to run again but this time all the horrors of Lakeside are going to be exposed! I enjoyed the time hop to life at Lakeside in particular. The murder plot was all a bit wild and far fetched as to why they would’ve set Martha up / killed Genevieve in the first place. All in all a good engaging read. 4*
January 25, 2021
What I love about the Tom Douglas series is that is not just a straight police thriller. The stories are as much about the characters who are at the heart of the case as it is the police and their day to day investigations. This time around the focus falls on Martha who finds herself under suspicion when her bosses wife is murdered. But rather than stay and face the police and profess her innocence, Martha disappears, for reasons that are slowly unveiled as the story progresses. There is far more to Martha than her colleagues know, and whilst as readers we become all too aware of why she has maintained such a air of secrecy amongst her colleagues, it only adds to the suspicion of guilt as far as her colleagues, and the police, are concerned.
This is a complicated and twisted case told in Rachel Abbott's usual tension riddled and engrossing style. Mixing the points of view of Martha and the police with some scenes from Martha's past, we are able to build a clear picture of why Martha is on the run and what she stands to lose if she is caught. Nothing is straightforward and the more I read, the more I started to empathise with Martha who, at least in the beginning, comes across as a very detached and almost too clinical character. Her shady behaviour made me want to learn more about her and the author has done a brilliant job of slowly peeling back the layers until we see the scared and vulnerable person at the core.
Rachel Abbott always takes a strong theme and builds a complex and often twisted story around it, keeping readers both informed and in suspense at the same time. Whilst we often feel we are one step head of the police, being as we often are in the mind of the central suspect or victim, she always retains some small element of the story, a vital piece of the puzzle which is revealed just at the point where the jeopardy will be most keenly felt. It means the tension and the pacing is just right, the story always holding my attention. This time around the author explores the theme of coercive control and psychological abuse, and introduces a character who is outwardly charming and charismatic but who ultimately makes the skin crawl. Rachel Abbott has created a situation which is totally believable and which will play with your emotions, especially given the ultimate impact of what comes to pass.
As almost supporting characters, I really do like Becky and Tom as the key investigators in the series. Although Becky's role is largely just investigative this time around, we do get to see a little bit more of how some recent changes in Tom's domestic situation are starting to impact upon his working life. It is those quieter moments that provide a welcome offset to the darkness in Martha's story, the proof that family life can be positive and uncomplicated. Character development is really one of the key elements I love about the books as whole - the way in which the author really makes you care about what happens to everyone in the story, even if it is only seeing an antagonist getting their just desserts.
Another gripping, character driven story that fans of the series will love. Definitely recommended.
This is a complicated and twisted case told in Rachel Abbott's usual tension riddled and engrossing style. Mixing the points of view of Martha and the police with some scenes from Martha's past, we are able to build a clear picture of why Martha is on the run and what she stands to lose if she is caught. Nothing is straightforward and the more I read, the more I started to empathise with Martha who, at least in the beginning, comes across as a very detached and almost too clinical character. Her shady behaviour made me want to learn more about her and the author has done a brilliant job of slowly peeling back the layers until we see the scared and vulnerable person at the core.
Rachel Abbott always takes a strong theme and builds a complex and often twisted story around it, keeping readers both informed and in suspense at the same time. Whilst we often feel we are one step head of the police, being as we often are in the mind of the central suspect or victim, she always retains some small element of the story, a vital piece of the puzzle which is revealed just at the point where the jeopardy will be most keenly felt. It means the tension and the pacing is just right, the story always holding my attention. This time around the author explores the theme of coercive control and psychological abuse, and introduces a character who is outwardly charming and charismatic but who ultimately makes the skin crawl. Rachel Abbott has created a situation which is totally believable and which will play with your emotions, especially given the ultimate impact of what comes to pass.
As almost supporting characters, I really do like Becky and Tom as the key investigators in the series. Although Becky's role is largely just investigative this time around, we do get to see a little bit more of how some recent changes in Tom's domestic situation are starting to impact upon his working life. It is those quieter moments that provide a welcome offset to the darkness in Martha's story, the proof that family life can be positive and uncomplicated. Character development is really one of the key elements I love about the books as whole - the way in which the author really makes you care about what happens to everyone in the story, even if it is only seeing an antagonist getting their just desserts.
Another gripping, character driven story that fans of the series will love. Definitely recommended.
March 7, 2021
Rachel Abbott is one of my favorite, most recommended authors. I love her Tom Douglas series - and was super excited to consume this latest addition.
A woman is murdered in the lane behind her house. Her husband owns a tech company- on the verge of launching a life altering app.
After talking to staff and searching offices, the police realize Martha cannot be found.
Martha's life is a complete fabrication- perfect for a murderer to disappear.
Martha and her son, Alfie, are on the run. She shuffles them around the countryside, under the radar.
India's story unfolds- the daughter of a woman who questions her purpose, wandering until she finds Aram. He tears apart their family, values and self worth.
Chilling. Suspenseful. Loved it.
A woman is murdered in the lane behind her house. Her husband owns a tech company- on the verge of launching a life altering app.
After talking to staff and searching offices, the police realize Martha cannot be found.
Martha's life is a complete fabrication- perfect for a murderer to disappear.
Martha and her son, Alfie, are on the run. She shuffles them around the countryside, under the radar.
India's story unfolds- the daughter of a woman who questions her purpose, wandering until she finds Aram. He tears apart their family, values and self worth.
Chilling. Suspenseful. Loved it.
February 25, 2021
If you haven’t read any of these books before, you are in for an absolute treat. All these books work exceptionally well as stand-alones and could be read out of sequence (shudder), but I always like to follow the series in the way the author intended so grab yourself a copy of Only The Innocent and thank me later.
Close Your Eyes is the story of Martha who gets caught up in a murder investigation when her bosses wife is found bludgeoned to death. For reasons unknown to the reader, Martha needs to avoid the police at any cost and flees her home removing all traces of her, leaving the police suspicious and keen to track her down. Slowly the author starts to reveal more about Martha and her past which is not a comfortable read, but the reader begins to understand why Martha is so terrified of being caught.
Once again Rachel Abbott has created an original story with a cast of characters who are either fascinating or downright despicable. I felt such sympathy for Martha, but don’t get me started on her mum….!!
As always the book centres around the victim of the crime and whilst this is a DCI Tom Douglas book, the story is primarily told through Martha.
Gripping, page-turning, twisty and original another easy 5 stars from me and I can’t wait for book 11.
Close Your Eyes is the story of Martha who gets caught up in a murder investigation when her bosses wife is found bludgeoned to death. For reasons unknown to the reader, Martha needs to avoid the police at any cost and flees her home removing all traces of her, leaving the police suspicious and keen to track her down. Slowly the author starts to reveal more about Martha and her past which is not a comfortable read, but the reader begins to understand why Martha is so terrified of being caught.
Once again Rachel Abbott has created an original story with a cast of characters who are either fascinating or downright despicable. I felt such sympathy for Martha, but don’t get me started on her mum….!!
As always the book centres around the victim of the crime and whilst this is a DCI Tom Douglas book, the story is primarily told through Martha.
Gripping, page-turning, twisty and original another easy 5 stars from me and I can’t wait for book 11.
February 11, 2021
This is another gripping read from the brilliant Rachel Abbott. Tom, Becky and the team are back investigating the murder of one woman, Genevieve, and the disappearance of another, Martha, who maybe a suspect in the killing. The novel is written from the perspectives of Tom and Martha and includes some cleverly interwoven flashbacks which are necessary to understand the woman Martha has become.
There are the author's trademark twists and turns which make for a highly entertaining read. The characters are very authentic, I really liked Martha and thoroughly disliked a number of the others. It is testament to Rachel's writing that I felt so strongly about the individuals.
There is a very strong theme at the centre of Close Your Eyes but to reveal it would be tantamount to a spoiler. It is a fascinating one with a strong psychological undercurrent.
This is the ninth in the Tom Douglas series but it can be easily read as a standalone. I really recommend it.
Many thanks to Rachel's Expert Witness group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There are the author's trademark twists and turns which make for a highly entertaining read. The characters are very authentic, I really liked Martha and thoroughly disliked a number of the others. It is testament to Rachel's writing that I felt so strongly about the individuals.
There is a very strong theme at the centre of Close Your Eyes but to reveal it would be tantamount to a spoiler. It is a fascinating one with a strong psychological undercurrent.
This is the ninth in the Tom Douglas series but it can be easily read as a standalone. I really recommend it.
Many thanks to Rachel's Expert Witness group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
Labai patiko! Idomu paskaityti, koks baisus gyvenimas gali buti sektose. Atrodo, kokie zmones naivus, kad sitaip isitraukia, viska paaukoja, priima nesuvokiamus sprendimus, leidziasi psichologiskai isnaudojami ir tik del vieno zmogaus, sektos lyderio, kuriuo aklai pasitiki. Bet, lyderiai moka puikiai prieiti, prie pazeidziamu ar sunku etapa isgyvenanciu, nors ir protingu zmoniu ir vietoj to, kad padetu, dar labiau sujaukia gyvenima, privercia issizadeti, net paciu brangiausiu zmoniu. Skaitant buvo labai gaila, kad tevai, ypac mama, pasmerke ne tik save, bet ir savo vaika, tokiam gyvenimui. Dziaugiausi uz pagrindine veikeja, kad galiausiai jai pavyko istrukti is sektos ir apginti savo suneli. Tik vis tikejausi, kad jos mama galiausiai atsipeikes nuo lyderio keru, nores isgelbeti dukra ir, kad tiesiog parodys meiles jai ir anukui, bet deja, iki paskutines akimirkos lyderis buvo svarbiausias.
February 13, 2021
This is one of my favourite crime series and when Rachel asked if I would like to review Close Your Eyes, there was absolutely no hesitation. This is now the 10th book and if you haven’t read the previous ones, you’ve missed out on a brilliant series but this can easily be read on its own.
Life has moved on for DCI Tom Douglas since the last book, he is now a new father. After a sleep deprived night, he is called out by his colleague DI Becky Robinson in the early hours to a murder scene. A woman, identified as Genevieve Strachan has been found dead next to her house in an alley.
Much of the story focuses on Martha Porter who worked for Genevieve’s husband Niall at his tech firm. When Martha disappears, for reasons unknown, the priority is to find her. However she is an expert at covering her tracks and doesn’t want to be found, by anybody.
Through flashback chapters, the reader is drip fed another story and what a harrowing and disturbing one it is. From the outset Martha comes across as super efficient but her detached and unfriendly manner makes her the subject of office gossip and not instantly likeable. She appears to have motive but with suspicion falling on her, is she really a killer? If however she is innocent, why is she running.
With Martha’s chapters told in the first person and the rest of the story in the third, I felt as though I were being drawn in to Martha’s world and as events unfolded I had more questions needing answers. I had various scenarios going around in my head and I was desperate to know if I was right.
As well as the murder investigation, there is a parallel story of psychological coercion and manipulation – and this is why I understood the title of the book. Some aspects made for uncomfortable reading because it seemed so authentic and realistic. The characterisation was very well done and I did get emotionally involved – I always feel an author has done their job well when you care what happens to a character. There were some characters that made me so angry and others I just felt so sad for.
This is another excellent addition to the series and possibly one of my favourites so far. The various strands are both engrossing and suspenseful right to the very end. Even though the police murder investigation at times seemed almost secondary to Martha’s story, in heading up the investigation, Tom still projects that aura of empathy and authority that makes him seem such a safe pair of hands, someone prepared to go against his superiors’ orders when needed – and his immediate team of Becky Robinson and DS Rob Cumba work so well together. I can’t wait for the next one!
Life has moved on for DCI Tom Douglas since the last book, he is now a new father. After a sleep deprived night, he is called out by his colleague DI Becky Robinson in the early hours to a murder scene. A woman, identified as Genevieve Strachan has been found dead next to her house in an alley.
Much of the story focuses on Martha Porter who worked for Genevieve’s husband Niall at his tech firm. When Martha disappears, for reasons unknown, the priority is to find her. However she is an expert at covering her tracks and doesn’t want to be found, by anybody.
Through flashback chapters, the reader is drip fed another story and what a harrowing and disturbing one it is. From the outset Martha comes across as super efficient but her detached and unfriendly manner makes her the subject of office gossip and not instantly likeable. She appears to have motive but with suspicion falling on her, is she really a killer? If however she is innocent, why is she running.
With Martha’s chapters told in the first person and the rest of the story in the third, I felt as though I were being drawn in to Martha’s world and as events unfolded I had more questions needing answers. I had various scenarios going around in my head and I was desperate to know if I was right.
As well as the murder investigation, there is a parallel story of psychological coercion and manipulation – and this is why I understood the title of the book. Some aspects made for uncomfortable reading because it seemed so authentic and realistic. The characterisation was very well done and I did get emotionally involved – I always feel an author has done their job well when you care what happens to a character. There were some characters that made me so angry and others I just felt so sad for.
This is another excellent addition to the series and possibly one of my favourites so far. The various strands are both engrossing and suspenseful right to the very end. Even though the police murder investigation at times seemed almost secondary to Martha’s story, in heading up the investigation, Tom still projects that aura of empathy and authority that makes him seem such a safe pair of hands, someone prepared to go against his superiors’ orders when needed – and his immediate team of Becky Robinson and DS Rob Cumba work so well together. I can’t wait for the next one!
February 4, 2021
Thank to Rachel Abbott and Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
Rachel Abbott has been one of my favourite authors ever since I picked up her first book. Her latest offering was, as expected, clever, intriguing and completely absorbs you from the first page. I love the way her narratives flip from the perspective of different characters and times. I always describe her books as 'unraveling' and its no exception in this book: as you read, Abbot feeds you information and you are completely caught up in the weaving events of the story.
Tom Douglas is a character that has been well-developed through her books and as a reader, you have trust and belief in this character and his ability to fight for good, put his all into solving the case and being a lovable family man too.
Abbott isn't afraid to write about controversial topics - a previous book referenced a pedophile ring; this particular book explores the effects and consequences of cults and it is a hugely intriguing and engaging topic that is sensitively and realistically handled.
Well done, Rachel, for another fantastic narrative!
Rachel Abbott has been one of my favourite authors ever since I picked up her first book. Her latest offering was, as expected, clever, intriguing and completely absorbs you from the first page. I love the way her narratives flip from the perspective of different characters and times. I always describe her books as 'unraveling' and its no exception in this book: as you read, Abbot feeds you information and you are completely caught up in the weaving events of the story.
Tom Douglas is a character that has been well-developed through her books and as a reader, you have trust and belief in this character and his ability to fight for good, put his all into solving the case and being a lovable family man too.
Abbott isn't afraid to write about controversial topics - a previous book referenced a pedophile ring; this particular book explores the effects and consequences of cults and it is a hugely intriguing and engaging topic that is sensitively and realistically handled.
Well done, Rachel, for another fantastic narrative!
January 2, 2021
Another incredible DCI Tom Douglas murder mystery. If you are already a fan of Rachel Abbott books, you expect to already be into the murder, or at least on your way to it, by the end of the first page; this story is different. You begin the story and as you read you wonder what in the world is going on? You begin with a very low key and very strange story narration by a young girl. As you continue, you are drawn into the incredible circumstances of the subtle absorption of otherwise seemingly normal people into the clutches of a cult. Then you immediately dive into murder, mayhem, and horror. Thankfully, as you continue to read, the interaction with DCI Douglas and his team allows sanity to finally reign in your brain. This is an incredible story. I highly recommend all of this author’s writings, but this one is especially incredible.
February 11, 2021
Rachel's writing is second to none. I so look forward to reading her books.
Gripping from the start Tom investigates the murder of Genevieve and the disappearance of Martha. Who is Martha?
Written from Tom's pov and Martha's we discover lots of twists and turns.
I found some of it uncomfortable reading but not in a bad way.
Highly recommended. Thank you to Rachel for the ARC thoroughly enjoyed it
Gripping from the start Tom investigates the murder of Genevieve and the disappearance of Martha. Who is Martha?
Written from Tom's pov and Martha's we discover lots of twists and turns.
I found some of it uncomfortable reading but not in a bad way.
Highly recommended. Thank you to Rachel for the ARC thoroughly enjoyed it
July 25, 2024
...nes žinojau...
...nes truko to kasko...
...nes truko to kasko...
September 29, 2025
2,5 ⭐️
nie była zła ale niesamowicie nudziła mnie, nie mogłam się w nią wkręcić i w pewnym momencie zaczęła mnie irytowałać. sam plot twist na końcu okazał sie być nawet spoko, ale nie przyniósł satysfakcji, połowy domyśliłam się już wcześniej, za długa i bez większych emocji. karton
nie była zła ale niesamowicie nudziła mnie, nie mogłam się w nią wkręcić i w pewnym momencie zaczęła mnie irytowałać. sam plot twist na końcu okazał sie być nawet spoko, ale nie przyniósł satysfakcji, połowy domyśliłam się już wcześniej, za długa i bez większych emocji. karton
February 4, 2021
Tim Douglas book #10, Close Your Eyes, is an intriguing story that starts with the death of Genevieve Strachan. That name means nothing until Tom, Becky, Rob and Jumbo meticulously peel back the layers of her life to discover who she is and who would want her dead.
Martha is a complicated character. The telling of her story unfolds throughout the book, little by little. Quite the enigma, Tom Douglas seems not to know what to make of her.
I enjoy seeing Tom Douglas come almost full circle as he is now enjoying a loving relationship with a wonderful woman and is once again a father. Tom's love for his daughter has not diminished by the arrival of the new baby. He seems to finally have the life he wants.
Of course life is not perfect and is not wrapped up in a pretty bow. This is one of the aspects of Rachel Abbott's books that I respect the most. She does not end on an unrealistic, perfectly happy note. Tom might solve the case, but tomorrow morning comes and some are left dealing with the fallout. Closure does not happen over night. Justice is not always felt right away. But lessons are learned, and hopefully life goes on in some semblance.
There is a very important Author's Note at the end. I found the information extremely accurate and it shows Rachel Abbott did her due diligence properly researching the topic.
I would like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
Martha is a complicated character. The telling of her story unfolds throughout the book, little by little. Quite the enigma, Tom Douglas seems not to know what to make of her.
I enjoy seeing Tom Douglas come almost full circle as he is now enjoying a loving relationship with a wonderful woman and is once again a father. Tom's love for his daughter has not diminished by the arrival of the new baby. He seems to finally have the life he wants.
Of course life is not perfect and is not wrapped up in a pretty bow. This is one of the aspects of Rachel Abbott's books that I respect the most. She does not end on an unrealistic, perfectly happy note. Tom might solve the case, but tomorrow morning comes and some are left dealing with the fallout. Closure does not happen over night. Justice is not always felt right away. But lessons are learned, and hopefully life goes on in some semblance.
There is a very important Author's Note at the end. I found the information extremely accurate and it shows Rachel Abbott did her due diligence properly researching the topic.
I would like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
February 11, 2021
I have to say that I’m a HUGE Rachel Abbott fan and have read all of her books and I’ve been eagerly awaiting the return of DCI Tom Douglas. This book did not disappoint.
Rachel’s new book had me gripped and on the edge of my seat from the first page. Twists and turns that will keep you guessing what will happen next every step of the way. Rachel has a way of making her characters come to life on the page. It’s just a shame the book had to come to an end. I’ll just have to wait for her next one. Definitely 5 stars from me
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
Rachel’s new book had me gripped and on the edge of my seat from the first page. Twists and turns that will keep you guessing what will happen next every step of the way. Rachel has a way of making her characters come to life on the page. It’s just a shame the book had to come to an end. I’ll just have to wait for her next one. Definitely 5 stars from me
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I would like to thank Black Dot Publishing for sending me an advance copy of this book.
February 3, 2021
This was a very good book. Characters were very realistic. I found myself being so concerned for the little boy. People aren’t always what they seem. That is for sure. Thank you Rachel Abbott for another good read.
Thank you so much for the advance reader copy.
Thank you so much for the advance reader copy.
April 10, 2023
Jau kiek lūkesčių turėjau šiai knygai ir maniau, kai paimsiu į rankas, perskaitysiu per kelis gerus prisėdimus. Deja, deja...
Pasigedau įtampos, vietomis skaičiau ir negalėjau atsistebėti, kokie gali būti žmonės "besmegeniai", patekę į sektas, ir nuolankiai kaip šuniukai, vizgindami uodegą, vykdytų šeimininko paliepimus.
Manau, jei autorė būtų pasirinkusi vieną pagrindinę temą - kultas, ten patekusių žmonių (šiuo atveju Martos ir jos tėvų istoriją;kaip dukrai su tėvo pagalba pavyko pabėgt, o vėliau tarkim gryžt gelbėti tėvų iš to pačio kulto pinklių ) arba žmogžudystė ir jos išaiškinimas, tada gal ir kažkas geresnio gautųsi. O dabar ir viena, ir kita, tarsi sumiksuota ir iš pradžių skaitant, sunku suprast ir atsirinkt , ko ta Marta taip bijo,ir nuo ko taip bėga, ar nuo Aramo,nes nori apsaugoti sūnų ir nenori gryžt į kultą, ar dėl to, kad galėjo nužudyti arba prisidėti prie žmogžudystės ir jos dabar ieško policija.
Na prisipažinsiu, skaičiau tam, kad perskaityt ir daugmaž sužinoti, kuo viskas pasibaigs,bet didelio įspūdžio nepaliko.
P. S. Aš vis dar nesuprantu, kaip kiti žmonės, taip lengvai pasiduoda ir greit įsitraukia į sektas? Na, paaiškinkit jūs man, kaip???
P. S. S. Tikiuosi būsimos autorės knygos bus geresnės, ir neteks nusivilti daugiau.
Pasigedau įtampos, vietomis skaičiau ir negalėjau atsistebėti, kokie gali būti žmonės "besmegeniai", patekę į sektas, ir nuolankiai kaip šuniukai, vizgindami uodegą, vykdytų šeimininko paliepimus.
Manau, jei autorė būtų pasirinkusi vieną pagrindinę temą - kultas, ten patekusių žmonių (šiuo atveju Martos ir jos tėvų istoriją;kaip dukrai su tėvo pagalba pavyko pabėgt, o vėliau tarkim gryžt gelbėti tėvų iš to pačio kulto pinklių ) arba žmogžudystė ir jos išaiškinimas, tada gal ir kažkas geresnio gautųsi. O dabar ir viena, ir kita, tarsi sumiksuota ir iš pradžių skaitant, sunku suprast ir atsirinkt , ko ta Marta taip bijo,ir nuo ko taip bėga, ar nuo Aramo,nes nori apsaugoti sūnų ir nenori gryžt į kultą, ar dėl to, kad galėjo nužudyti arba prisidėti prie žmogžudystės ir jos dabar ieško policija.
Na prisipažinsiu, skaičiau tam, kad perskaityt ir daugmaž sužinoti, kuo viskas pasibaigs,bet didelio įspūdžio nepaliko.
P. S. Aš vis dar nesuprantu, kaip kiti žmonės, taip lengvai pasiduoda ir greit įsitraukia į sektas? Na, paaiškinkit jūs man, kaip???
P. S. S. Tikiuosi būsimos autorės knygos bus geresnės, ir neteks nusivilti daugiau.
December 12, 2022
I found Close Your Eyes to be disappointing. It has all the elements if a good read but misses the mark by quite a wide berth.
Not a page-turner for me, but I still wanted to know what happened in the end. It was more a drama than a thriller.
I liked the characters, the team of police are great. The story was a bit of a let down really. From about 60% I just had to skim a lot to get to the end.
Not a page-turner for me, but I still wanted to know what happened in the end. It was more a drama than a thriller.
I liked the characters, the team of police are great. The story was a bit of a let down really. From about 60% I just had to skim a lot to get to the end.
October 6, 2024
Superinė knyga. Kokią galią turi sektos lyderiai "smegenų pudrinimui"
June 1, 2025
Rachel Abbott is a master at her craft. Close Your Eyes is a tenth book in DCI Tom Douglas series and she delivers yet another great multilayered story expertly weaving different timelines together. As always her characters are fully fledged and victim someone to really root for.
I absolutely love this series and highly recommend it.
I absolutely love this series and highly recommend it.
November 2, 2023
kurcze, chyba ta sekta jakoś słabo do mnie przemawia
June 25, 2024
Kaip buvo gerai! Sektos ir jų veikla - visiškai mano tema, todėl mėgavausi šia knyga nuo pradžios iki pabaigos.
Knygoje pagrindinis akcentas - Indijos gyvenimas. Kadangi ji tampa viena iš pagrindinių įtariamųjų viskas pasidaro dar labiau įtempta.
O kaip baigėsi knyga ir kas nužudė Ženevjevą padkaitykit ir sužinosite!
Tikrai rekomenduoju, ypač tiems, kuriuos domina sektos ir jų veikla 💙
Knygoje pagrindinis akcentas - Indijos gyvenimas. Kadangi ji tampa viena iš pagrindinių įtariamųjų viskas pasidaro dar labiau įtempta.
O kaip baigėsi knyga ir kas nužudė Ženevjevą padkaitykit ir sužinosite!
Tikrai rekomenduoju, ypač tiems, kuriuos domina sektos ir jų veikla 💙
February 21, 2021
I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to get round to reading the Tom Douglas series by Rachel Abbott. I’m always wary about starting a series several books in, but I am so glad I decided to the latest, Close Your Eyes. It can absolutely be read as a standalone, so if you’re new to this series as well, you don’t need to have read the previous books. But I’ll definitely be catching up on them.
In Close Your Eyes, the body of the wife of an up and coming businessman is found not far from their home. Her husband has set up a company that is currently developing an app that can accurately predict what will happen in your day. But what is really going on here? When Tom Douglas and his team arrive at the offices, a young woman, Martha Porter, flees, hoping to avoid speaking to the police. But why does she run? Has she got something to do with the murder? And what is the connection between what is happening now and a cult formed twenty-odd years earlier?
This was such a pacy and an addictive read. As soon as Martha flees the premises, I wanted to know what prompted her to do so. What was it that she didn’t want the police to know? I absolutely loved this premise, and it kept me asking what was really going on here.
The scenes told from Martha’s point of view are very tense. She knows that the police will be looking for her, and she tries everything possible to stop them from tracking her down. Then Rachel also takes us back in time when we see a young family moving into a new home in Liverpool. Not long after they move there, a mysterious man moves in with them who makes India, who is a young girl at the time and her father, feel very uncomfortable. But her mother is adamant that he stays and that he will be a good thing for them.
I loved the different strands in this book; it made it such a gripping read as I wanted to know what was really going on here. If you haven’t yet started this series, and if you love crime fiction, then I highly recommend it. I only wish that I’d got round to reading the books sooner.
In Close Your Eyes, the body of the wife of an up and coming businessman is found not far from their home. Her husband has set up a company that is currently developing an app that can accurately predict what will happen in your day. But what is really going on here? When Tom Douglas and his team arrive at the offices, a young woman, Martha Porter, flees, hoping to avoid speaking to the police. But why does she run? Has she got something to do with the murder? And what is the connection between what is happening now and a cult formed twenty-odd years earlier?
This was such a pacy and an addictive read. As soon as Martha flees the premises, I wanted to know what prompted her to do so. What was it that she didn’t want the police to know? I absolutely loved this premise, and it kept me asking what was really going on here.
The scenes told from Martha’s point of view are very tense. She knows that the police will be looking for her, and she tries everything possible to stop them from tracking her down. Then Rachel also takes us back in time when we see a young family moving into a new home in Liverpool. Not long after they move there, a mysterious man moves in with them who makes India, who is a young girl at the time and her father, feel very uncomfortable. But her mother is adamant that he stays and that he will be a good thing for them.
I loved the different strands in this book; it made it such a gripping read as I wanted to know what was really going on here. If you haven’t yet started this series, and if you love crime fiction, then I highly recommend it. I only wish that I’d got round to reading the books sooner.
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