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Can't Hide What's Inside (The Madison Sanders Trilogy Book 1).
A Psychological Thriller.
A guilt-ridden single mother kills in revenge for the accidental death of her child. But she can't stop, and she can't hide what's inside.
The future is bright for Madison Sanders, a 27-year-old business analyst and single mother. Finally free from her abusive mother's controlling grip, she relocates across the country and begins a new job.
Soon after, dark troubles arise as her misogynistic male office co-workers sexually harass her to the point of desperation. Unwilling to tolerate any more of the offensive behavior, she strikes back, reporting the offenders to management. Feeling self-assured, she resumes her focus on work.
Then tragedy strikes in the form of an accident, resulting in the death of her only child. Madison accepts all blame and is crushed under the weight of her guilt and grief.
But everything changes as a startling revelation about the accident is revealed, sending her on a crusade to find the truth of what really happened. Frustrated by uncooperative police detectives, she turns to the help of a private investigator to find the criminals responsible. But he finds much more than he expected.
The reader is transported through an odyssey of lies, deception, and murder as more facts about the crime are revealed, including Madison's own dark hidden past, unbeknown to her. In the journey to find justice, her mother's secrets are manifest into reality, forcing Madison to accept a horrifying truth that she can't hide within.
Book 1 of the Madison Sanders Trilogy.
Disclaimer Among the topics of Delayed Onset Adult Psychopathy, PTSD, and child abuse, Can't Hide What's Inside heavily explores the subject of male misogyny, issues with race, stereotypes, and bigotry. If you are sensitive to any of these issues, as the author I highly recommend that you do not read this book.
A guilt-ridden single mother kills in revenge for the accidental death of her child. But she can't stop, and she can't hide what's inside.
The future is bright for Madison Sanders, a 27-year-old business analyst and single mother. Finally free from her abusive mother's controlling grip, she relocates across the country and begins a new job.
Soon after, dark troubles arise as her misogynistic male office co-workers sexually harass her to the point of desperation. Unwilling to tolerate any more of the offensive behavior, she strikes back, reporting the offenders to management. Feeling self-assured, she resumes her focus on work.
Then tragedy strikes in the form of an accident, resulting in the death of her only child. Madison accepts all blame and is crushed under the weight of her guilt and grief.
But everything changes as a startling revelation about the accident is revealed, sending her on a crusade to find the truth of what really happened. Frustrated by uncooperative police detectives, she turns to the help of a private investigator to find the criminals responsible. But he finds much more than he expected.
The reader is transported through an odyssey of lies, deception, and murder as more facts about the crime are revealed, including Madison's own dark hidden past, unbeknown to her. In the journey to find justice, her mother's secrets are manifest into reality, forcing Madison to accept a horrifying truth that she can't hide within.
Book 1 of the Madison Sanders Trilogy.
Disclaimer Among the topics of Delayed Onset Adult Psychopathy, PTSD, and child abuse, Can't Hide What's Inside heavily explores the subject of male misogyny, issues with race, stereotypes, and bigotry. If you are sensitive to any of these issues, as the author I highly recommend that you do not read this book.
- GenresFiction
404 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2021
54 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Heigelmann
5 books91 followersC.J. Heigelmann is a freelance writer and an author of Contemporary Fiction, Historical Fiction, and Psychological Thrillers.
He produces literature that focuses on the human condition through character perspective and realism. Ever evolving, but yet retaining his core signature of sharp-edged realism, his writing style brings deep and compelling meaning to every plot and storyline while maintaining the integrity of the subject matter at hand. His ultimate goal is to stimulate a reader's mind, intellect, and emotions while being legitimately informative and intentionally provocative.
Visit www.MustReadCJ.com to learn more.
He is a member of the Authors Guild, the Historical Novel Society, and the South Carolina Writers Association.
AWARDS
Maincrest Media Book Award, Winner, Psychological Thriller Fiction, 2024, Can't Hide What's Inside.
National Indie Excellence Award, Finalist, Military Fiction, 2022, Crooked Fences.
Independent Press Award, Winner, Multicultural Fiction, 2021, An Uncommon Folk Rhapsody.
Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Fellowship for Fiction, Finalist, 2021, The Other Side of the Hill.
Wishing Shelf Book Award, Finalist, Adult Fiction, 2020, An Uncommon Folk Rhapsody.
New York City Big Book Award, Distinguished Favorite, Military Fiction, 2020, Crooked Fences.
Bestselling Amazon Author: Contemporary Literary Fiction, Depression, Racism and Discrimination, African American Literary Fiction, Historical Thrillers, Historical African Fiction, and Vigilante Justice.
"I express my characters in their pure flawed form because all of us are flawed. I don't shrink from using stereotypes whether positive or negative. Instead, I promote them and in the next breath completely shatter them. This exposes the error of subjugating individuals to intellectually lazy social labels, compelling the reader to confront the empirical nature of a character while lending insight into true understanding."
"Readers are not one-dimensional, and the stories they read shouldn't be either."
C.J. Heigelmann
He produces literature that focuses on the human condition through character perspective and realism. Ever evolving, but yet retaining his core signature of sharp-edged realism, his writing style brings deep and compelling meaning to every plot and storyline while maintaining the integrity of the subject matter at hand. His ultimate goal is to stimulate a reader's mind, intellect, and emotions while being legitimately informative and intentionally provocative.
Visit www.MustReadCJ.com to learn more.
He is a member of the Authors Guild, the Historical Novel Society, and the South Carolina Writers Association.
AWARDS
Maincrest Media Book Award, Winner, Psychological Thriller Fiction, 2024, Can't Hide What's Inside.
National Indie Excellence Award, Finalist, Military Fiction, 2022, Crooked Fences.
Independent Press Award, Winner, Multicultural Fiction, 2021, An Uncommon Folk Rhapsody.
Elizabeth Boatwright Coker Fellowship for Fiction, Finalist, 2021, The Other Side of the Hill.
Wishing Shelf Book Award, Finalist, Adult Fiction, 2020, An Uncommon Folk Rhapsody.
New York City Big Book Award, Distinguished Favorite, Military Fiction, 2020, Crooked Fences.
Bestselling Amazon Author: Contemporary Literary Fiction, Depression, Racism and Discrimination, African American Literary Fiction, Historical Thrillers, Historical African Fiction, and Vigilante Justice.
"I express my characters in their pure flawed form because all of us are flawed. I don't shrink from using stereotypes whether positive or negative. Instead, I promote them and in the next breath completely shatter them. This exposes the error of subjugating individuals to intellectually lazy social labels, compelling the reader to confront the empirical nature of a character while lending insight into true understanding."
"Readers are not one-dimensional, and the stories they read shouldn't be either."
C.J. Heigelmann
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 5, 2021
Special thanks to BookSirens for providing me with an ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
“Can’t Hide What’s Inside” is the third novel by author, C.J Heigelmann. In this psychological thriller, single mother Madison Sanders has finally left the abusive and confining clutches of her mother and is starting her own life, with a new job as a business analyst, and a new city, halfway across the country from her mother. However, the job is not what she expected it to be, after a few interactions with male coworkers lead her toward making a human resources complaint, which makes her the prime target of the group of misogynistic coworkers who deem themselves, “The Wolfpack”. When a tragedy strikes Madison’s life, she begins to uncover some truths about what really happened that day, and seeks revenge.
Heigelmann is a new author for me, and “Can’t Hide What’s Inside” is the first of a trilogy. Firstly, I must say that if I had not been given advanced access to this book with a promise to review, I never would’ve finished it. I pushed through only to be able to say that I had completed it, but I knew from page one it was not going to be a novel I enjoyed.
Firstly, this novel is full of stereotypes, misogynism and racism. Every male in this novel (and I mean, EVERY ONE) refers to females as “bitches” behind their backs, and addresses them (to their face) in various patronizing ways (such as “sweetheart”, “baby” etc.). In almost every conversation, the male characters talk as if they are in a high school locker room (even in a professional setting) and in fact, the conversations are so immature and juvenile, that it was hard to believe these were adult males speaking to each other. The female characters are only slightly more likable, but they are extremely shallow and vapid, chastising themselves mentally by calling themselves (and each other), “silly girl”. To add to that, comments such as “oh, you don’t want to go pissing a black woman off” and making very clear comments about girls who are “cool with dating black guys” was a turn-off.
The plot itself had some hope, and I saw the beginnings of a great story there (an entire story could have been written on Madison’s mother’s theory, “The Purpose”) but the characters were unlikable and the conversations everyone had were almost painful to read. There was some sexual content, which in general would not turn me against a novel, but again, the unrealistic nature of a male in a relationship telling his girlfriend to “suck him off”? Yeah, not likely (unless he wanted a slap).
Again, the ending had some promise, and it answered the right questions, while still leaving a lot of openings for future novels in this series. I will not be reading them, however. Also, I don’t normally comment on spelling and grammar in early reviews, but my Canadian soul HAS to say something here—it’s “GORDIE” Howe, not “GORDY” Howe. *Whew*. Okay, that’s done. Now I am off to cleanse my palette.
“Can’t Hide What’s Inside” is the third novel by author, C.J Heigelmann. In this psychological thriller, single mother Madison Sanders has finally left the abusive and confining clutches of her mother and is starting her own life, with a new job as a business analyst, and a new city, halfway across the country from her mother. However, the job is not what she expected it to be, after a few interactions with male coworkers lead her toward making a human resources complaint, which makes her the prime target of the group of misogynistic coworkers who deem themselves, “The Wolfpack”. When a tragedy strikes Madison’s life, she begins to uncover some truths about what really happened that day, and seeks revenge.
Heigelmann is a new author for me, and “Can’t Hide What’s Inside” is the first of a trilogy. Firstly, I must say that if I had not been given advanced access to this book with a promise to review, I never would’ve finished it. I pushed through only to be able to say that I had completed it, but I knew from page one it was not going to be a novel I enjoyed.
Firstly, this novel is full of stereotypes, misogynism and racism. Every male in this novel (and I mean, EVERY ONE) refers to females as “bitches” behind their backs, and addresses them (to their face) in various patronizing ways (such as “sweetheart”, “baby” etc.). In almost every conversation, the male characters talk as if they are in a high school locker room (even in a professional setting) and in fact, the conversations are so immature and juvenile, that it was hard to believe these were adult males speaking to each other. The female characters are only slightly more likable, but they are extremely shallow and vapid, chastising themselves mentally by calling themselves (and each other), “silly girl”. To add to that, comments such as “oh, you don’t want to go pissing a black woman off” and making very clear comments about girls who are “cool with dating black guys” was a turn-off.
The plot itself had some hope, and I saw the beginnings of a great story there (an entire story could have been written on Madison’s mother’s theory, “The Purpose”) but the characters were unlikable and the conversations everyone had were almost painful to read. There was some sexual content, which in general would not turn me against a novel, but again, the unrealistic nature of a male in a relationship telling his girlfriend to “suck him off”? Yeah, not likely (unless he wanted a slap).
Again, the ending had some promise, and it answered the right questions, while still leaving a lot of openings for future novels in this series. I will not be reading them, however. Also, I don’t normally comment on spelling and grammar in early reviews, but my Canadian soul HAS to say something here—it’s “GORDIE” Howe, not “GORDY” Howe. *Whew*. Okay, that’s done. Now I am off to cleanse my palette.
May 26, 2021
Madison Sanders, a young single mom, finds herself besieged by a group of 4 men when she starts working in a local business. These four men call themselves "The Wolf Pack". When she's had enough of the harassment, she takes her complaints to Human Resources. He then calls in these men and gives them a severe warning.
Then tragedy strikes in the form of an accident, resulting in the death of her only child. Madison accepts all blame and is crushed under the weight of her guilt and grief.
But as she slowly starts to emerge from her cocoon of grief, she finds she has questions about the accident. When police detectives ignore her, she turns to a private investigator ... a detective that's been kicked off the force. But what he finds is much more than anyone expected.
Madison takes matters into her own hands and dishes out the only punishment the people who killed her son will understand.
Disclaimer: Among the topics of Delayed Onset Adult Psychopathy, PTSD, and child abuse, Can't Hide What's Inside heavily explores the subject of male misogyny, issues with race, stereotypes, and bigotry. If you are sensitive to any of these issues, as the author I highly recommend that you do not read this book.
The plot is a good one, and even though it's been done many times over, the author managed to make it seem new. The characters are solidly drawn ... warts and all. Madison, especially, is a kind of unique character. Her relationship with her mother is shockingly revealed as the truth slowly emerges throughout the telling. There are twists and turns, some expected, some not. This is the first in a trilogy featuring Madison Sanders.
Many thanks to the author / Booksirens for the digital copy of this Psychological Thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 16, 2021
Absolutely loved this book, the story is full of heartache, psychological & psycopathic references and human responses to stress. From an accidental killing, to murder, to deception, to suicides, love, lust, mental health - it’s all in this book!!
I was aware before reading this book that there would be some male misogyny, sexist comments and bigotry but I felt the language used was appropriate for building the story line. (Although I do not agree that these behaviours are acceptable or appropriate in real life ).
The main male characters were well thought out and evoked every kind of reaction from me: laughter, anger, curiosity & hatred.
Madison’s character is so diverse and intense which is a reflection of her difficult upbringing.
I liked the way the mental health issues experienced by Madison (voices in her head) was included in the storyline. I’ve never experienced mental health issues but this story highlighted how manipulative and real those voices are to the victims. And how destructive they can be!!
The final couple of chapters - “the great reveals” were very cleverly written, kept me engaged but I did not anticipate the final ending.
It just goes to show you never know what’s around the corner!
Loved it and can’t wait for the next instalment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was aware before reading this book that there would be some male misogyny, sexist comments and bigotry but I felt the language used was appropriate for building the story line. (Although I do not agree that these behaviours are acceptable or appropriate in real life ).
The main male characters were well thought out and evoked every kind of reaction from me: laughter, anger, curiosity & hatred.
Madison’s character is so diverse and intense which is a reflection of her difficult upbringing.
I liked the way the mental health issues experienced by Madison (voices in her head) was included in the storyline. I’ve never experienced mental health issues but this story highlighted how manipulative and real those voices are to the victims. And how destructive they can be!!
The final couple of chapters - “the great reveals” were very cleverly written, kept me engaged but I did not anticipate the final ending.
It just goes to show you never know what’s around the corner!
Loved it and can’t wait for the next instalment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2021
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
April 30, 2021
Thrills, Chills and Suspense
Wow! This book was one thrilling rollercoaster. One twist after another. I couldn't stop reading.
Was it Justice, or something else? Between the perverted office co-workers, the Keystone cops and the crazy controlling mom it was one whopper of a story.
First a young single mom escapes a controlling mother with her young son, finds a nice place to live and has a good job at her company. Next there are bodies everywhere....including her young son.
A very different book from the other two I read from this author, but a very good read.
This was a good book one in a trilogy..now I can't wait to read book two.
Thanks to C.J. Heigelmann, Common Folk Press and Book Sirens for allowing me to read a copy of the book for an honest review.
Wow! This book was one thrilling rollercoaster. One twist after another. I couldn't stop reading.
Was it Justice, or something else? Between the perverted office co-workers, the Keystone cops and the crazy controlling mom it was one whopper of a story.
First a young single mom escapes a controlling mother with her young son, finds a nice place to live and has a good job at her company. Next there are bodies everywhere....including her young son.
A very different book from the other two I read from this author, but a very good read.
This was a good book one in a trilogy..now I can't wait to read book two.
Thanks to C.J. Heigelmann, Common Folk Press and Book Sirens for allowing me to read a copy of the book for an honest review.
May 16, 2021
Excellent book, very intriguing
Great read, rhythmic almost and very well paced.
Strong evocations of moral outrage around various incidents through the book, that get completely turned round, then back again. A sort of ‘wait didn’t I think the opposite a few pages back?’, and now not so sure...
And on it goes, it doesn’t limp to an unsatisfying ending, there’s a lot going on at the end and there’s an excellent ‘sting in the tail’.
I enjoyed it a lot. Recommended.
Great read, rhythmic almost and very well paced.
Strong evocations of moral outrage around various incidents through the book, that get completely turned round, then back again. A sort of ‘wait didn’t I think the opposite a few pages back?’, and now not so sure...
And on it goes, it doesn’t limp to an unsatisfying ending, there’s a lot going on at the end and there’s an excellent ‘sting in the tail’.
I enjoyed it a lot. Recommended.
May 6, 2021
I picked this book up on a bargain promotional sale and was pleasantly surprised at just how great this story read. It had two captivating mystery themes, thrill and suspense, plus its share of male chauvinist scumbags who received the just rewards for their deplorable and reprehensible behavior. But then there's more. Much more. The story follows the main character as she slowly, and excruciatingly straddles the borders of sanity and develops a sort of multiple personality disorder along with psychotic impulses. The reasons behind it all are a total surprise. I'm hooked and look forward to the next book in this trilogy.
May 24, 2021
Madison had relocated from Seattle, Washington with her 4 year old son, Elijah, to Minneapolis, Minnesota. She transferred there to get away from her controlling and abusive mother. She had tried leaving home once before by going to college, but became pregnant. The father, who was African American, basically abandoned her, and she was forced to move back home. Finally she was glad to be out of her mothers home and on her own. Little did she know that she would be trading one situation for another. Her boss, Ron, had his own issues as well. He was married, but was always looking for another conquest of his subordinates. The group of four males, that he controlled, was called The Wolfpack. Each of the men had had their conquests with female employees. For some strange reason, they had been able to get away with this behavior for quite a while. Madison had decided that this was a new chapter in her life. She was determined to do a good job. Eventually, her boss, Ron, rubbed up against her at the copy machine. She had dealt with the innuendos long enough. She met with Steve, the Human Resource Manager, to inform him of what was happening in the work environment. Steve ensured her that he would be taking care of her concerns. While these issues were being addressed, Madison now has a target on her back. During the night, someone walked up to her car, and packed her tailpipe with snow. The next morning, her car didn’t want to start, it kept cutting out, and she noticed that an odor was coming from the car. She noticed that Elijah was asleep in the car. She became very dizzy and tried to get Elijah out of his seat. However, before she could get to him, she started to lose consciousness, and fell out of the car. She managed to survive, but little Elijah did not. Who would want to kill her, and why? Was it one of the Wolfpack? Will she ever find out, who killed her son? Would the police be able to find out who the culprit is? How will Madison react if they find out who killed her son? Why is her mother so cold to her? Her mother actually acted relieved that her biracial grandson didn’t survive. Why does her mother treat Madison as if she is a loser, and has no brain of her own? How has this abuse affected Madison? Will she ever have a meaningful relationship with Conor, her colleague? How will Conor be supportive to her? The plot was absolutely genius!! The reader was taken on a roller coaster ride. Everything is not always as it seems. This book had everything in it. It had social justice, racism, romance, narcissism, and quite a bit of the issues that the country is dealing with today. The character development was spot on. The reader could relate to just about everything within this book. It brought out so many emotions relating to the antagonist and protagonists. It was so hard to put this book down. This book definitely fits the genre of psychological thriller! I look forward to reading the next book!!
May 18, 2021
For Psych thriller this book covers everything. It's the story of Madison who transferred from Seattle to Minnepolis for her job and that's when things take off. She makes 1 true friend at her new job but will the friend stick by her till the very end. We have a brat pack in place who start all the trouble for Madison with an overbearing mother what can possibly go wrong. Just when you think things are on an even keel something else happens in Madison's life from sexual harrassment, death and murder this book has it all. I give it 4.5 star rating because I did figure out most of the book before the last page.
May 15, 2021
I really liked this story. Although it was a longer book, it actually seemed like a pretty quick read. This may have been because there always seemed to be something happening. Others have summarized this book much better than I could so I will leave that to them. I will be adding another of Mr Heigelman's books to my want=to-read list. I am happy to have read this and found a new author. I would like to thank the author for the free copy of his book.
May 13, 2021
Fast paced, suspenseful. Great book, one of the best I've read this year
May 3, 2021
I usually don't read psychological thrillers, but I decided to try this one as the title caught my attention. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. The unpredictable twists and turns had me at the edge of my seat until the very last page. I can't wait for book two!
June 12, 2021
I have to admit, I am the type of person who sadly judges books by their covers. Can't Hide What's Inside grabbed me for two reasons - the awesome glass shattered cover and the fact that it was a thriller. The book was a little slow-paced normally for my liking but it made up for it by being such an action-packed, emotional, and rollercoaster of a ride that had you going WTF just happened, and seriously - Woah that came out of nowhere. The book starts with our main female lead Madison heading to her job with her son in the backseat. Tragedy happens and then the book jumps three months before Madison starting a new job where she is immediately pounced upon like fresh meat and sexually harassed by a group of guys at work named The Wolf Pack. They retaliate when she turns them down which leads to the tragedy with her car etc. Here Madison plays the grieving mother and soon starts to date a new guy at work and things are looking up, the guys involved in the tragedy are behind bars but then wham bam - another surprising twist comes out of nowhere and someone else dies. As the book continues, we see Madison move back home with her mother and then craziness aka The Purpose is talked about and looks like Madison could be following her mother's footsteps when another person dies, but when the cloud clears from Madison- does she want to become like her mother? Then right at the end of the book, we readers are blown away with another twist to the story. If you love psychological thrillers, then this one will have you checking all the boxes of a good read.
May 26, 2021
I received this book for free via BookSirens in exchange for a fair review.
The sexism and racism make it difficult to get into the story. Women are divided into two categories: whores and saints who look down on the whores. Grown women say phrases like 'TGIF girlfriend' and seem to only talk about men in their lives.
The men are even worse, they are all (and I mean every single man that appears) 'alpha males' who call women bitches in their inner monologues and assume all women want to shag them, and if they don't - they are whores.
The way sex is approached is also vile, a few examples would include: man finds girlfriend vomiting at night, first thing he says to her is: 'Couldn't be swallowing, you always swallow', after a man sides with killer of her child his gf understandably gets pissed off, but 2 pages later 'I was mean, he needs to know I forgiven him'. Best way to do that? Sex of course, because women have no other value in this book.
Also there is so much unnesecary focus on race, with phrases like 'elijah daddy is black so race won't be an issue for you' and ' don't want to make a black woman mad'.
There is zero character development, all men are the same character with different names (apart from one who seems to have unexplained personality switch for whenever it serves the plot) and the same problem goes for all the women. Also the writing style is very dry, we get some inner monologue (for the most part it's men drooling over main character and women calling themselves 'silly girl') but the tragic and significant events of this story seem to have no impact on anyone beyond a little sadness. I think the main character is supposed to be having some sort of mental health issues as she has 'triggers' and 'seizures' but it doesn't seem like the author himself knew where he was going with this.
Another big problem with this book is how interractions and relationships progress - the pacing is completely off. Two examples: main character meets the best friend, gets invited for lunch at new job, she tells the girl she feels like she has known her for years, tells her the big secret she never told anyone before, cries about her ex leaving 4 years ago - that's all covered in the first day they met each other. Other example- main girl speaks to IT guy, he's friendly, she likes him flirting, he confesses he has a crush on her, he asks for her number, she says no, explains she's not ready for a relationship, he said it's fine and they can be 'friends with benefits' (wtf), she cussed him out - all that is first conversation with this guy ever.
Everything seems to move at a speed of light, and things that could be built up into some conflict get resolved by next page.
I think the plot had some potential but due to flat characters and instant conflict resolution it just wasn't interesting.
The sexism and racism make it difficult to get into the story. Women are divided into two categories: whores and saints who look down on the whores. Grown women say phrases like 'TGIF girlfriend' and seem to only talk about men in their lives.
The men are even worse, they are all (and I mean every single man that appears) 'alpha males' who call women bitches in their inner monologues and assume all women want to shag them, and if they don't - they are whores.
The way sex is approached is also vile, a few examples would include: man finds girlfriend vomiting at night, first thing he says to her is: 'Couldn't be swallowing, you always swallow', after a man sides with killer of her child his gf understandably gets pissed off, but 2 pages later 'I was mean, he needs to know I forgiven him'. Best way to do that? Sex of course, because women have no other value in this book.
Also there is so much unnesecary focus on race, with phrases like 'elijah daddy is black so race won't be an issue for you' and ' don't want to make a black woman mad'.
There is zero character development, all men are the same character with different names (apart from one who seems to have unexplained personality switch for whenever it serves the plot) and the same problem goes for all the women. Also the writing style is very dry, we get some inner monologue (for the most part it's men drooling over main character and women calling themselves 'silly girl') but the tragic and significant events of this story seem to have no impact on anyone beyond a little sadness. I think the main character is supposed to be having some sort of mental health issues as she has 'triggers' and 'seizures' but it doesn't seem like the author himself knew where he was going with this.
Another big problem with this book is how interractions and relationships progress - the pacing is completely off. Two examples: main character meets the best friend, gets invited for lunch at new job, she tells the girl she feels like she has known her for years, tells her the big secret she never told anyone before, cries about her ex leaving 4 years ago - that's all covered in the first day they met each other. Other example- main girl speaks to IT guy, he's friendly, she likes him flirting, he confesses he has a crush on her, he asks for her number, she says no, explains she's not ready for a relationship, he said it's fine and they can be 'friends with benefits' (wtf), she cussed him out - all that is first conversation with this guy ever.
Everything seems to move at a speed of light, and things that could be built up into some conflict get resolved by next page.
I think the plot had some potential but due to flat characters and instant conflict resolution it just wasn't interesting.
June 2, 2021
I read Can't Hide What's Inside as a recommended book from a Psychology/Thriller Goodreads group. Wow, what a wild ride this book takes the reader. This book opens as the lead character, Madison and her son Elijah, move from Seattle to Minnesota as Madison is transferred with her job at Traxtonite. The reader is soon introduced to a group of five males from Traxtonite that form a group called Wolf Pack. The goal of the Wolf Pack is to use their own form of entertainment by trying to see which male Wolf Pack member will take control of Madison. The first part of the book sets the stage for how the Wolf Pack works and is the main storyline for this book.
Can't Hide What's Inside tells the story of what happens to Madison and how she overcomes a life of bullying and frustration. The reader learns a lot about Madison's mom, Elizabeth. I like how the author described Elizabeth. Madison calls her mom Elizabeth in the book, not mom or mother. I like how the author set in motion how Elizabeth is not a loving mother.
This book is a microcosm of society and the images in this book are images we see everyday in today's society. This book deals with blatant sexual misconduct, racism and misogamy. Madison has a mix raced son and there are scenes in this book that show how we need to, as a society, accept people that are different that us. This book, at times, is not comfortable. But change is not only uncomfortable, it is sometimes not wanted. I look at Can't Hide What's Inside as a barometer of what is wrong with society and until we stop and have clear conversations about difficult subject matters, change will not happen. I will be honest, I felt this book was not my cup of tea at the beginning. But as I continued to read this book, I felt a need to not only look at myself, but to look at how people that are different than me are treated. For that reason, I gave this book five solid stars. I highly recommend this book.
Can't Hide What's Inside tells the story of what happens to Madison and how she overcomes a life of bullying and frustration. The reader learns a lot about Madison's mom, Elizabeth. I like how the author described Elizabeth. Madison calls her mom Elizabeth in the book, not mom or mother. I like how the author set in motion how Elizabeth is not a loving mother.
This book is a microcosm of society and the images in this book are images we see everyday in today's society. This book deals with blatant sexual misconduct, racism and misogamy. Madison has a mix raced son and there are scenes in this book that show how we need to, as a society, accept people that are different that us. This book, at times, is not comfortable. But change is not only uncomfortable, it is sometimes not wanted. I look at Can't Hide What's Inside as a barometer of what is wrong with society and until we stop and have clear conversations about difficult subject matters, change will not happen. I will be honest, I felt this book was not my cup of tea at the beginning. But as I continued to read this book, I felt a need to not only look at myself, but to look at how people that are different than me are treated. For that reason, I gave this book five solid stars. I highly recommend this book.
January 3, 2022
Review: “Karma’s just sharpening her nails and finishing her drink. She says she’ll be with you shortly.” Welcome readers to another book review, where this time we have a book that’s thrilling, and mysterious. It’s also emotional and heart breaking. It’s a story of a 27-year-old mother, Madison Sanders, who has faced a lot of ups and downs in her life. She’s a single mother who was left alone and pregnant by her very unsupportive and a jerk of a boyfriend, and who is now surviving in the misogynistic environment of her work place. She works through it all because it’s all for her son, the light of her life, Elijah. But what if the son she loves more than life itself dies in an accident. And what if there is more to the death of her child than meets the eyes? Will she be able to discover the truth? Will she be able to face the ghosts of the past that have haunted more than just her, but her family before her? Read this amazing thriller to get all your answers.
📚The story is very well written around the theme. The author has meticulously detailed the events in the book for better visualization. This book is a phenomenal thriller. I liked how the story revolves around a mother and her desire to avenge her son. Its one of the most honest feelings in the world and I liked the ingenuity of the story.
📚This book has surely made it to my top thrillers. An avid reader of the genre, I am sure that it will certainly be loved by other lovers of thrillers and mysteries. Get your copies today to unravel the mysteries of the life of Madison Sander, and also share with your friends.
📚The story is very well written around the theme. The author has meticulously detailed the events in the book for better visualization. This book is a phenomenal thriller. I liked how the story revolves around a mother and her desire to avenge her son. Its one of the most honest feelings in the world and I liked the ingenuity of the story.
📚This book has surely made it to my top thrillers. An avid reader of the genre, I am sure that it will certainly be loved by other lovers of thrillers and mysteries. Get your copies today to unravel the mysteries of the life of Madison Sander, and also share with your friends.
August 19, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book starts with Madison and her son Elijah moving from Seattle to Minnesota due to Madison's job transfer at Traxtonite. Early on, the reader is introduced to Wolf Pack, a group of five males from Traxtonite. Wolf Pack's objective is to have fun by competing over Madison's control. The beginning of the book establishes the Wolf Pack's operation and is central to the book's plot.
Can't Hide What's Inside documents Madison's experience of overcoming bullying and frustration. A lot of information about Elizabeth, Madison's mother, is uncovered by the reader. I appreciate how the author portrayed Elizabeth. In the book, Madison addresses her mom as Elizabeth, rather than using mom or mother. The author's portrayal of Elizabeth as an unloving mother was well-executed. The book addresses sexual misconduct, racism, and misogyny in a very direct manner. Madison's son, who is of mixed race, is featured in scenes that demonstrate the importance of accepting those who are different from ourselves. There are instances when this book can be uncomfortable. Sometimes change is neither desired nor comfortable.
The story took me on a surprising journey. It was shocking to see how Madison handled her revelations. The events that took place made me sympathetic towards her.
If you like stories with suspense, then I strongly advise you start with book 1 as book 2 is also available on Booksirens, which I'm currently reading.
Highly recommended!!!
The book starts with Madison and her son Elijah moving from Seattle to Minnesota due to Madison's job transfer at Traxtonite. Early on, the reader is introduced to Wolf Pack, a group of five males from Traxtonite. Wolf Pack's objective is to have fun by competing over Madison's control. The beginning of the book establishes the Wolf Pack's operation and is central to the book's plot.
Can't Hide What's Inside documents Madison's experience of overcoming bullying and frustration. A lot of information about Elizabeth, Madison's mother, is uncovered by the reader. I appreciate how the author portrayed Elizabeth. In the book, Madison addresses her mom as Elizabeth, rather than using mom or mother. The author's portrayal of Elizabeth as an unloving mother was well-executed. The book addresses sexual misconduct, racism, and misogyny in a very direct manner. Madison's son, who is of mixed race, is featured in scenes that demonstrate the importance of accepting those who are different from ourselves. There are instances when this book can be uncomfortable. Sometimes change is neither desired nor comfortable.
The story took me on a surprising journey. It was shocking to see how Madison handled her revelations. The events that took place made me sympathetic towards her.
If you like stories with suspense, then I strongly advise you start with book 1 as book 2 is also available on Booksirens, which I'm currently reading.
Highly recommended!!!
May 31, 2021
A great read and a fantastic build up of the story line. It opens with a horrific event and then goes back in time to tell the reader how things got so messed up.
The book deals with some heavy subjects such as sexual harassment, racism, murder, suicide and some descriptions are quite graphic. It's not too shocking and I don't think the descriptions are meant to shock but more in order to add realism and convey the picture of what's happening, just as it would be done in a movie.
There are quite a number of fantastic plot twists in the book, some of which you can see coming and others are totally unexpected!
I was happy to learn that this was just book #1 of 3 .. looking forward to book #2 !!
I'd like to thank the author for the review copy! I enjoyed reading this book very much, especially as I got further into it.
The book deals with some heavy subjects such as sexual harassment, racism, murder, suicide and some descriptions are quite graphic. It's not too shocking and I don't think the descriptions are meant to shock but more in order to add realism and convey the picture of what's happening, just as it would be done in a movie.
There are quite a number of fantastic plot twists in the book, some of which you can see coming and others are totally unexpected!
I was happy to learn that this was just book #1 of 3 .. looking forward to book #2 !!
I'd like to thank the author for the review copy! I enjoyed reading this book very much, especially as I got further into it.
July 4, 2021
With thanks to BookSirens where I was given this book on exchange for a completely honest review
I have to admit it took me a while to get into this novel. It’s started with great promise with the explosive story of her young sons death. But for me it then fell flat for a while with the introduction of the ‘Wolf Pack’ at Madisons (the main character) workplace. This is a group of 4 men at the Traxonite company which basically have competitions with each other to bed the women in the work place. The book then begins to follow this plot and you are kind of left wondering where the book is going. However the book then begins to pick up pace in the second half I would say and things begin to knit together and make sense.........or so you think! Massive plot twist that I was completely unprepared for! Can’t go into any detail without revealing any spoilers but I would recommend persevering with this book! It also ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I would definitely want to read the next 2 in the trilogy to find out what happens to Madison in the future and it is that reason that I’ve given this book 4 stars instead of 3
I have to admit it took me a while to get into this novel. It’s started with great promise with the explosive story of her young sons death. But for me it then fell flat for a while with the introduction of the ‘Wolf Pack’ at Madisons (the main character) workplace. This is a group of 4 men at the Traxonite company which basically have competitions with each other to bed the women in the work place. The book then begins to follow this plot and you are kind of left wondering where the book is going. However the book then begins to pick up pace in the second half I would say and things begin to knit together and make sense.........or so you think! Massive plot twist that I was completely unprepared for! Can’t go into any detail without revealing any spoilers but I would recommend persevering with this book! It also ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and I would definitely want to read the next 2 in the trilogy to find out what happens to Madison in the future and it is that reason that I’ve given this book 4 stars instead of 3
May 27, 2021
I will start by saying that I enjoy a good thriller. The plot of the book is good; however, I struggled with the unfolding of the story. I found a few editing issues that could have helped with the story flow. It would have been better for the author to simply state an action rather than turn a relativly insignificant event into dialogue. Additionally, there were some areas where I struggled with the dialogue in general. A second go through editing would have improved this book. Otherwise, it was a quick enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 1, 2021
This book was well written and the story unfolded masterfully. It did deal with the unpleasant side of human nature. If I had a criticism it would be that every character had a real ugly side or a major character flaw. The book hits on death, sexual harassment, mental illness, murder, shoddy police work, racism,manipulation; it is dark. I found myself not rooting for anyone, yet the story was good. I understand people are faceted but I found myself wanting to like someone and not being able to which kept me from rating higher, everyone was a bit too icky.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 12, 2021
Wow. A LOT going on! Controlling mother, The 'Wolf Pack at work, a tragedy, mental illness, a new man.....
An absorbing tale that kept me engaged..
My only criticism was the Wolf Pack scenario. Although the behavior was an instrumental part of the story, it didn't strike me as believable in this century. I remember the days when it was though....It just dropped my rating down as it seemed too gratuitous.
I would read more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book through Book Sirens and this is my honest review.
An absorbing tale that kept me engaged..
My only criticism was the Wolf Pack scenario. Although the behavior was an instrumental part of the story, it didn't strike me as believable in this century. I remember the days when it was though....It just dropped my rating down as it seemed too gratuitous.
I would read more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book through Book Sirens and this is my honest review.
May 28, 2021
After the first few pages, I knew this was a book I wasn’t going to be able to put down, until I got to The End. If you like absolutely unpredictable, twisted suspense as much as I do, you can't go wrong with this book!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
October 29, 2021
I thought the premise of this book was good but it didn’t really live up to my expectations.
I tried to bond with the characters and feel something for them but I just felt that I couldn’t. I struggled to finish the story which on the whole was fairly well put together, it just fell short on the story and characters.
I received this ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I tried to bond with the characters and feel something for them but I just felt that I couldn’t. I struggled to finish the story which on the whole was fairly well put together, it just fell short on the story and characters.
I received this ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 30, 2021
A well written but difficult book to read. Deals with Child abuse, PTSD and more. I enjoyed learning about subjects I wasn’t familiar with.
June 3, 2021
I really enjoyed the book. Started and didn't want to put down. I have read all of his books and this by far is the very best. Can't wait until the next one comes out. Keep up the good work.
June 20, 2021
Great Read
This guy knows how to spin a tale. A totally enjoyable read from beginning to end. Looking forward to reading the next in this trilogy. Great writing, great story line, great ending...to be continued
This guy knows how to spin a tale. A totally enjoyable read from beginning to end. Looking forward to reading the next in this trilogy. Great writing, great story line, great ending...to be continued
June 13, 2021
OMG! That is the first thing that comes to my mind 1000 times while I was reading this book. I can't tell you for sure that I don't expect that kind of plot. This is one of the books that you will definitely not put down that easily till the last page. I loved this book!
Madison Sanders, a 27-year-old business analyst, and single mother has a bright future ahead of her. She relocates across the state and starts a new job, finally free of her authoritarian mother's influence.
Soon after, her misogynistic male coworkers sexually harass her to the point of desperation, causing her serious problems. She lashes back, reporting the offenders to management, unable to tolerate any more of the insulting behavior. She resumes her concentrate on work, feeling more confident.
Then tragedy hits in the shape of an accident, which claims her only child's life. Madison accepts full responsibility and is shattered by her own guilt and grief. In revenge for the accidental loss of her only child, a guilt-ridden single mother kills. She can't stop herself, and she can't hide what's inside.
This is the first book that I have the opportunity to read from C.J. Heigelmann. Elements like male misogyny, issues with race, stereotypes, and bigotry... I must admit it's a very brave move to put in the book. I am sure that they are not that many authors who will put that kind of sensitive issue in their books. For me personally, that part of the book is not that harmful to my process of reading this book, it's kind of the opposite it makes it more interesting and real (but in real life, I don't agree that these behaviors are acceptable or appropriate).
Thank you C.J. Heigelmann for this amazing book! Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Madison Sanders, a 27-year-old business analyst, and single mother has a bright future ahead of her. She relocates across the state and starts a new job, finally free of her authoritarian mother's influence.
Soon after, her misogynistic male coworkers sexually harass her to the point of desperation, causing her serious problems. She lashes back, reporting the offenders to management, unable to tolerate any more of the insulting behavior. She resumes her concentrate on work, feeling more confident.
Then tragedy hits in the shape of an accident, which claims her only child's life. Madison accepts full responsibility and is shattered by her own guilt and grief. In revenge for the accidental loss of her only child, a guilt-ridden single mother kills. She can't stop herself, and she can't hide what's inside.
This is the first book that I have the opportunity to read from C.J. Heigelmann. Elements like male misogyny, issues with race, stereotypes, and bigotry... I must admit it's a very brave move to put in the book. I am sure that they are not that many authors who will put that kind of sensitive issue in their books. For me personally, that part of the book is not that harmful to my process of reading this book, it's kind of the opposite it makes it more interesting and real (but in real life, I don't agree that these behaviors are acceptable or appropriate).
Thank you C.J. Heigelmann for this amazing book! Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 20, 2021
I really like this book! It has so many plot twists! It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read however I felt like there were too many characters coming and going and some unnecessary details! But still it was a good read! I would’ve never thought that it would end like this when I first started!! I would’ve given it 4.5 if it were possible.
Also I think it would make a great tv show/movie, I loved the writing style and the characters’ thoughts!
Also I think it would make a great tv show/movie, I loved the writing style and the characters’ thoughts!
Read
September 27, 2025A grieving mother will do anything to avenge her child in Heigelmann’s novel.
After Madison Sanders’ boyfriend abandoned her when she was pregnant, she had to raise her son, Elijah, as a single parent. But, now she’s in a good place: She has a new best friend, Brittany, at her new marketing job, and her 4-year-old son is healthy and happy. Then, her life takes a dark turn when she becomes the victim of workplace sexual harassment. A group of men who call themselves “the Wolf Pack” have targeted her, and she must decide what to do. Then a shocking and heartbreaking accident occurs, and as a result, Elijah dies and Madison is horribly injured. She’s left to wonder if she is responsible for her child’s death, and if not, then who is? Meanwhile, Don Carson has been put on leave from the police force and has opened his own private detective business. Madison comes to him for help in finding her child’s killer, but Carson is not exactly whom he presents himself to be. Indeed, many things are not as they seem, Madison discovers, as she tries to pick up the pieces of her life; along the way, she falls in love with a new man and turns to her mother for support despite their troubled history. Heigelmann has crafted a striking psychological drama that carefully and thoughtfully explores the despair that victims of abuse and sexual harassment experience. Madison is shown to be a complex character with an arc that’s surprising and compelling. Some secondary characters feel underdeveloped in comparison, but Heigelmann compensates for this with a fast-paced plot, and the chain of events that leads to Madison’s breakdown feels realistic. Overall, it’s a well-crafted story that maintains a good balance of believability and unpredictability.
An engagingly emotional thriller with surprising plot turns.
- Kirkus Reviews
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-re...
After Madison Sanders’ boyfriend abandoned her when she was pregnant, she had to raise her son, Elijah, as a single parent. But, now she’s in a good place: She has a new best friend, Brittany, at her new marketing job, and her 4-year-old son is healthy and happy. Then, her life takes a dark turn when she becomes the victim of workplace sexual harassment. A group of men who call themselves “the Wolf Pack” have targeted her, and she must decide what to do. Then a shocking and heartbreaking accident occurs, and as a result, Elijah dies and Madison is horribly injured. She’s left to wonder if she is responsible for her child’s death, and if not, then who is? Meanwhile, Don Carson has been put on leave from the police force and has opened his own private detective business. Madison comes to him for help in finding her child’s killer, but Carson is not exactly whom he presents himself to be. Indeed, many things are not as they seem, Madison discovers, as she tries to pick up the pieces of her life; along the way, she falls in love with a new man and turns to her mother for support despite their troubled history. Heigelmann has crafted a striking psychological drama that carefully and thoughtfully explores the despair that victims of abuse and sexual harassment experience. Madison is shown to be a complex character with an arc that’s surprising and compelling. Some secondary characters feel underdeveloped in comparison, but Heigelmann compensates for this with a fast-paced plot, and the chain of events that leads to Madison’s breakdown feels realistic. Overall, it’s a well-crafted story that maintains a good balance of believability and unpredictability.
An engagingly emotional thriller with surprising plot turns.
- Kirkus Reviews
https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-re...
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