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This Love Kills Me
"Where this author has been all my life...I'm hooked!--Rubie C. Netgalley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Have you ever stayed up really late because you just had to finish a book? Well, expect that to happen with this book."--Mary, Goodreads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Impersonating your best friend can be deadly. Trusting her in-laws was her first mistake.Julia Rose, an acclaimed millionaire fantasy author, wife, and mother to a young boy, disappears on a family cruise. Did someone push her overboard? Or did she fall?Three years after the incident, a beautiful young woman shows up in Manhattan, calling herself Annie Adams. With the help of Julia’s former attorney, Annie establishes herself as the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie didn’t take the job to make Julia’s widower richer. She is in the city to find out who tried to kill Julia and why, and make them pay.When her dedication turns into obsession, Annie has to decide if she is willing to pay the high price for bringing justice.A binge-worthy read of a missing millionaire author and a friend obsessed with finding out the truth and bringing her justice for fans of The Silent Patient, Sharp Objects, and Big Little Lies.
"Have you ever stayed up really late because you just had to finish a book? Well, expect that to happen with this book."--Mary, Goodreads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Impersonating your best friend can be deadly. Trusting her in-laws was her first mistake.Julia Rose, an acclaimed millionaire fantasy author, wife, and mother to a young boy, disappears on a family cruise. Did someone push her overboard? Or did she fall?Three years after the incident, a beautiful young woman shows up in Manhattan, calling herself Annie Adams. With the help of Julia’s former attorney, Annie establishes herself as the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie didn’t take the job to make Julia’s widower richer. She is in the city to find out who tried to kill Julia and why, and make them pay.When her dedication turns into obsession, Annie has to decide if she is willing to pay the high price for bringing justice.A binge-worthy read of a missing millionaire author and a friend obsessed with finding out the truth and bringing her justice for fans of The Silent Patient, Sharp Objects, and Big Little Lies.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
104 people are currently reading
2734 people want to read
About the author
A.B. Whelan
22 books732 followersNew release: Easy Prey is a a razor-sharp psychological thriller inspired by real-life con artists and emotional predators. Easy Prey will leave you breathless and questioning everything. Releasing on July 17, 2025.
Whelan is an Amazon bestselling author of domestic psychological thrillers.
She currently resides in California with her husband and two children. When she isn't writing, editing, marketing, or researching her next book, you can find her walking her two rescue dogs, socializing online, coaching soccer, or doing another DIY project with her husband.
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Whelan is an Amazon bestselling author of domestic psychological thrillers.
She currently resides in California with her husband and two children. When she isn't writing, editing, marketing, or researching her next book, you can find her walking her two rescue dogs, socializing online, coaching soccer, or doing another DIY project with her husband.
Find me on:
* Facebook (AuthorABWhelan)
* Instagram (authorabwhelan)
* Goodreads (A.B. Whelan)
* Twitter (AuthorABWhelan)
* Bookbub: A.B. Whelan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
May 28, 2021
3.5 Stars Rounded Up.
What happened to Julia Rose?
With memorial services in the rear view mirror and the famous author’s estate settled, her body was never recovered. No one knows what happened the day Julia went overboard on a cruise ship.
This is a story of a friend’s obsessive desire for truth and justice. With a vast amount of money at stake, each family member stands to benefit from Julia’s death. Who is to blame, if anyone?
As the story unfolded, I enjoyed reading this but wouldn’t classify it as a typical thriller. Normally, there’s a sort of detachment so when the dead bodies appear, I’m not as moved by their plight as a reader.
There were no corpses in this until the very end plus I felt saddened by the circumstances of a few other characters. Kudos to the author for throwing me off my expectations and trying something new.
I felt the writing style was engaging and flowed smoothly so this was easily read - even with difficult subject matter. Trigger warnings for captivity and underage female sex slavery which may challange a few readers.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Burbank Books for my electronic galley in advance of the June 1, 2021 publishing date.
What happened to Julia Rose?
With memorial services in the rear view mirror and the famous author’s estate settled, her body was never recovered. No one knows what happened the day Julia went overboard on a cruise ship.
This is a story of a friend’s obsessive desire for truth and justice. With a vast amount of money at stake, each family member stands to benefit from Julia’s death. Who is to blame, if anyone?
As the story unfolded, I enjoyed reading this but wouldn’t classify it as a typical thriller. Normally, there’s a sort of detachment so when the dead bodies appear, I’m not as moved by their plight as a reader.
There were no corpses in this until the very end plus I felt saddened by the circumstances of a few other characters. Kudos to the author for throwing me off my expectations and trying something new.
I felt the writing style was engaging and flowed smoothly so this was easily read - even with difficult subject matter. Trigger warnings for captivity and underage female sex slavery which may challange a few readers.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Burbank Books for my electronic galley in advance of the June 1, 2021 publishing date.
June 20, 2021
THIS LOVE KILLS ME is a domestic psychological thriller by bestselling author A.B. Whelan.
The Rose family had gathered in Los Angeles to celebrate a family 35th wedding anniversary boarding a cruise ship to Mexico. The party of ten included Tony Rose and his wife, millionaire fantasy author, Julia Rose.
It was during this trip that Julia Rose disappeared. Her husband admitted that he argued with his wife on the way to their cabin…and he returned to the cabin alone. Julia was not seen again. Julia Rose, an author, wife, and mother to a young boy, had disappeared on a family cruise.
Did someone push her overboard? Or did she fall?
An investigation is still ongoing years later. Was it an accident…or suicide…or homicide?
Three years after the incident, a young beautiful woman shows up in Manhattan, calling herself Annie Adams. With the help of Julia’s former attorney, Brooke Russell, Annie establishes herself as the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie didn’t take the job to make Julia’s widow richer. She is in the city to find out who tried to kill Julia and why, and make them pay.
But Annie’s obsession and desire for the truth could place her own life in danger! She must decide if she is willing to pay the high price for bringing justice.
This well-written mystery novel will have you gripped from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed and not what they seem. The plot provides lots of twists and turns, and the shocking ending I did not see coming. A definite winner!
Many thanks to the author for my digital copy of this novel.
The Rose family had gathered in Los Angeles to celebrate a family 35th wedding anniversary boarding a cruise ship to Mexico. The party of ten included Tony Rose and his wife, millionaire fantasy author, Julia Rose.
It was during this trip that Julia Rose disappeared. Her husband admitted that he argued with his wife on the way to their cabin…and he returned to the cabin alone. Julia was not seen again. Julia Rose, an author, wife, and mother to a young boy, had disappeared on a family cruise.
Did someone push her overboard? Or did she fall?
An investigation is still ongoing years later. Was it an accident…or suicide…or homicide?
Three years after the incident, a young beautiful woman shows up in Manhattan, calling herself Annie Adams. With the help of Julia’s former attorney, Brooke Russell, Annie establishes herself as the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie didn’t take the job to make Julia’s widow richer. She is in the city to find out who tried to kill Julia and why, and make them pay.
But Annie’s obsession and desire for the truth could place her own life in danger! She must decide if she is willing to pay the high price for bringing justice.
This well-written mystery novel will have you gripped from beginning to end. The characters are well-developed and not what they seem. The plot provides lots of twists and turns, and the shocking ending I did not see coming. A definite winner!
Many thanks to the author for my digital copy of this novel.
June 22, 2021
Who killed Julia Rose? This is the question that obsesses Annie Adams. Millionaire fantasy author Julia disappeared overboard during a cruise with the extended family three years ago. Nobody saw what happened, or will admit to seeing it. Was it an accident? Was she pushed? Or did she jump? The body was never recovered.
In the present Annie teams up with Brooke Russell, Julia’s former lawyer and good friend with a plan to identify Julia’s killer, as they are convinced she was murdered, and seek revenge. Who doesn’t like a good revenge plot? That’s right, only this was not one of the better revenge stories out there. Annie is posing as the new estate manager for the Rose family as an “in” with the family. She and Brooke spy on Tony, the widower, and manipulate the whole family to see who cracks. You might wonder who Annie is (no, she’s not Julia) and why she cares but I’d rather not go into that for fear of spoilers.
What a bunch of unlikeable people! I could have dealt with that but nobody behaved in adult fashion. In some ways Annie could be forgiven for acting up as she really had a difficult and painful past but even so I found her childish, whiny, unreliable and a whole bunch of other negative traits. The Rose family were just awful - money grubbing, manipulative and and and. But the really hard one to swallow was the lawyer. I found her willingness to break the law to get to get to the truth just a step too far. And that’s with my disbelief suspenders hitched right up! It’s not like Julia was her family although she seemed to be family by proxy for the rather disturbed Brooke.
Yes it was a sad story of exploitation but I’m afraid it stretched credulity just too much. It was also overly melodramatic and unfortunately I just couldn’t get into this one. It’s a real shame as I have greatly enjoyed three previous books by the author so when this was on offer I happily grabbed it. I think my view must be an outlier as there are many really good ratings for the book but it just didn’t work for me. Thanks to BookSirens for providing a free copy of the book which I reviewed voluntarily. 2.5 stars rounded up for old times sake.
In the present Annie teams up with Brooke Russell, Julia’s former lawyer and good friend with a plan to identify Julia’s killer, as they are convinced she was murdered, and seek revenge. Who doesn’t like a good revenge plot? That’s right, only this was not one of the better revenge stories out there. Annie is posing as the new estate manager for the Rose family as an “in” with the family. She and Brooke spy on Tony, the widower, and manipulate the whole family to see who cracks. You might wonder who Annie is (no, she’s not Julia) and why she cares but I’d rather not go into that for fear of spoilers.
What a bunch of unlikeable people! I could have dealt with that but nobody behaved in adult fashion. In some ways Annie could be forgiven for acting up as she really had a difficult and painful past but even so I found her childish, whiny, unreliable and a whole bunch of other negative traits. The Rose family were just awful - money grubbing, manipulative and and and. But the really hard one to swallow was the lawyer. I found her willingness to break the law to get to get to the truth just a step too far. And that’s with my disbelief suspenders hitched right up! It’s not like Julia was her family although she seemed to be family by proxy for the rather disturbed Brooke.
Yes it was a sad story of exploitation but I’m afraid it stretched credulity just too much. It was also overly melodramatic and unfortunately I just couldn’t get into this one. It’s a real shame as I have greatly enjoyed three previous books by the author so when this was on offer I happily grabbed it. I think my view must be an outlier as there are many really good ratings for the book but it just didn’t work for me. Thanks to BookSirens for providing a free copy of the book which I reviewed voluntarily. 2.5 stars rounded up for old times sake.
July 27, 2021
“Sooner or later everyone sits down to a banquet of consequences.” ― Robert Louis Stevenson”
Who killed Julia Rose? That’s the mystery that A.B. Whelan presents in this twisty thriller. And there are plenty of suspects to choose from. Poor Julia chose the wrong family to marry into!
Julia and Tony Rose started as a normal, struggling couple. But then Julia started writing fantasy novels that became huge hits and they had more money than they knew what to do with. And somehow they were financially supporting Tony’s needy family. After years of the family leaching off Julia, and squandering money on frivolous items, Julia had enough. She was much more generous than I would have been!
They attend a family cruise, financed by Julia of course, and a family meeting is set up to cut the financial ties. But, before this takes place, Julia mysteriously disappears from the ship and is assumed to have “fallen” overboard. How convenient!
She ends up washing ashore in Mexico and the story gets super juicy. We get glimpses of Julia’s new life and WOW is all I can say! We also get to read her journal entries, which I loved! Even though I guessed the culprit, this one had so much edge-of-your-seat excitement that I had no trouble staying engaged! And the Rose family is one that you’ll love to hate.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Sincere thanks to BookSirens, A. B. Whelan, and Burbank Books.
My Rating: 4.5 ⭐️’s (rounding up)
Published: June 1st 2021 by Burbank Books
Pages: 332
Recommend: Yes
#ThisLoveKillsMe #BurbankBooks #NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview #BookSirens #AwesomeThriller #BookReview #JustFinished #ARC #JournalEntries #SummerRead
@AuthorABWhelan
After publication, my reviews can be found on Amazon, BN.com, GoodReads, BookBub and Twitter.
Who killed Julia Rose? That’s the mystery that A.B. Whelan presents in this twisty thriller. And there are plenty of suspects to choose from. Poor Julia chose the wrong family to marry into!
Julia and Tony Rose started as a normal, struggling couple. But then Julia started writing fantasy novels that became huge hits and they had more money than they knew what to do with. And somehow they were financially supporting Tony’s needy family. After years of the family leaching off Julia, and squandering money on frivolous items, Julia had enough. She was much more generous than I would have been!
They attend a family cruise, financed by Julia of course, and a family meeting is set up to cut the financial ties. But, before this takes place, Julia mysteriously disappears from the ship and is assumed to have “fallen” overboard. How convenient!
She ends up washing ashore in Mexico and the story gets super juicy. We get glimpses of Julia’s new life and WOW is all I can say! We also get to read her journal entries, which I loved! Even though I guessed the culprit, this one had so much edge-of-your-seat excitement that I had no trouble staying engaged! And the Rose family is one that you’ll love to hate.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Sincere thanks to BookSirens, A. B. Whelan, and Burbank Books.
My Rating: 4.5 ⭐️’s (rounding up)
Published: June 1st 2021 by Burbank Books
Pages: 332
Recommend: Yes
#ThisLoveKillsMe #BurbankBooks #NoRulesJustThrills #InExchangeForReview #BookSirens #AwesomeThriller #BookReview #JustFinished #ARC #JournalEntries #SummerRead
@AuthorABWhelan
After publication, my reviews can be found on Amazon, BN.com, GoodReads, BookBub and Twitter.
June 1, 2021
Three years ago Julia Rose, a well-known author, disappears while on a family cruise. Did she fall overboard? Deliberately jumped? Was she pushed? Or has she faked her own death?
Annie Adams is working with Julia's former attorney and has become the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie has another agenda ...
And her agenda just might get her killed ....
Told in part by Annie, part with Julia's journal, bit by bit the reader discovers what happened to Julia .. and why.
She left behind a husband, a young son, and her in-laws, all who were on the cruise ship the night she disappeared. So what really happened?
There's plenty of action. a high level of suspense, and the mystery will keep you glued to the pages until the final conclusion .. when all is revealed. The characters are solidly drawn, but beware not everyone is who they seem to be. Obsession, Greed, Love, Toxic Relationships all play a part.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this Domestic Psychological Thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Annie Adams is working with Julia's former attorney and has become the new estate manager of the Rose family. But Annie has another agenda ...
And her agenda just might get her killed ....
Told in part by Annie, part with Julia's journal, bit by bit the reader discovers what happened to Julia .. and why.
She left behind a husband, a young son, and her in-laws, all who were on the cruise ship the night she disappeared. So what really happened?
There's plenty of action. a high level of suspense, and the mystery will keep you glued to the pages until the final conclusion .. when all is revealed. The characters are solidly drawn, but beware not everyone is who they seem to be. Obsession, Greed, Love, Toxic Relationships all play a part.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this Domestic Psychological Thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
June 1, 2021
I thought this was a good book. Although, I would call it a bit of a "sleeper thriller". What I mean is that it moved at a slower pacing than I would have liked my psychological thriller to move at. The build up took quite a while to get there. It seemed like I kept waiting and waiting for something exciting to happen.
Everyone is a suspect but they are all innocent until proven guilty. That is where Annie comes in. She is determined to find out the truth about who wanted Julia out of the picture. What she did not expect is to fall for Julia's husband, Tony.
While, there might have been some romance, this is not a romance suspense book. I was drawn to Annie. She herself had an interesting story as well. Overall, I did like this book and do suggest readers give it a chance.
Everyone is a suspect but they are all innocent until proven guilty. That is where Annie comes in. She is determined to find out the truth about who wanted Julia out of the picture. What she did not expect is to fall for Julia's husband, Tony.
While, there might have been some romance, this is not a romance suspense book. I was drawn to Annie. She herself had an interesting story as well. Overall, I did like this book and do suggest readers give it a chance.
July 25, 2021
Who else loves a revenge thriller? It’s definitely one of my buzzwords that makes me want to add a book to my TBR and this one was wild. The author tends to cover dark and disturbing stuff in her books which I love and this was no exception. I always finish her books in just a couple sittings because they’re fast and addictive too, another great weekend binge read.
June 30, 2022
I discovered the talented A.B Whelan after reading the unputdownable If I had two lives. Therefore when I saw another book of hers on NetGalley I hit the Request button faster than you can say 'request'. This Love Kills Me is the story of a missing presumed dead author who seemingly had everything going for her in life. I would describe this book as suspenseful bit not go so far as to thrilling... Not for me. The first few parts of the book was great. The characters were solid and the plot was unpredictable. I loved hearing Annies side of the story. Now that was thrilling...a bit. Brooke on the other hand was such a grey character I loved her but what a complicated woman! I don't think I can get her out of mind even though I finished reading this book days back! As for the plot, I kept thinking this is like a spanish telenovela but had strong elements if suspense and there was a dash of paranormal stuff for a while. Put together the plot was interesting and I had hoped for a killer or big reveal at the end. I kept waiting for that mind blowing moment that never came. In my personal opinion the ending was a letdown. I found Annie's & Brooke's subplot the most compelling yet harrowing! This is a story I won't likely forget in a while. A. B Whelan is one author to watch out for!
Thank you NetGalley, Burbank books, and A. B. Whelan for this arc!
Thank you NetGalley, Burbank books, and A. B. Whelan for this arc!
July 30, 2021
This Love Kills Me, was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and because of that I didn’t want to rush into it. I wanted to make sure that, the book I read before didn’t put me in a funk and that my mind was ready for a insane ride. Which I’m glad I did because I think it made me enjoy it more.
When I read, If I Had Two Lives, which was my first book by her a few years ago, I couldn’t get over how amazing the story in itself was and her writing of course was too good. I instantly fell in love with it.
I’m so glad this one lived up to my expectation after the first book I read!!
Such a captivating story about a famous author that was pushed overboard on a cruise. Her son and husband who was left in her absence grieve while the mystery of her disappearance is investigated by Brooke and “Annie”, who has no forgotten about her whereabouts and they will do whatever it takes to uncover the truth.
I especially loved the diary entries that were included throughout the book and thought that was a nice personal touch to Julie’s character.
Julie, was one of the strongest characters in a book I ever got to know. The things she seen and endured were unfathomable.
With that said, please read the trigger warnings below before reading.
•Sexual Abuse/Rape
•Physical Abuse
•Death/Murder
•Suicide
When I read, If I Had Two Lives, which was my first book by her a few years ago, I couldn’t get over how amazing the story in itself was and her writing of course was too good. I instantly fell in love with it.
I’m so glad this one lived up to my expectation after the first book I read!!
Such a captivating story about a famous author that was pushed overboard on a cruise. Her son and husband who was left in her absence grieve while the mystery of her disappearance is investigated by Brooke and “Annie”, who has no forgotten about her whereabouts and they will do whatever it takes to uncover the truth.
I especially loved the diary entries that were included throughout the book and thought that was a nice personal touch to Julie’s character.
Julie, was one of the strongest characters in a book I ever got to know. The things she seen and endured were unfathomable.
With that said, please read the trigger warnings below before reading.
•Sexual Abuse/Rape
•Physical Abuse
•Death/Murder
•Suicide
May 24, 2021
5* Poisoned Love stars
It has been a while since I read an A.B. Whelan novel so when this arrived on my kindle I was beyond excited because I knew I was in for a thrilling and suspenseful read. This story did not disappoint!
From the first page you will be captivated by the storytelling surrounding the sudden disappearance of Julia Rose from a family cruise. This event will lead to an all-consuming desire for revenge where the young Annie Adam’s will stop at nothing to avenge Julia’s death.
Secrets and betrayal abound and pasts will come back to haunt those who thought they were long buried. The twists and turns were real and believable. When justice is served will it be worth the trauma and sacrifices encountered along the way?
The backstory of Annie Adam’s was totally unexpected and pivotal to the storytelling. Some of the side characters were so unsavoury and self centred. The author did a wonderful job at portraying this.
I throughly enjoyed the journey this book took me on. It was steeped with revenge, paranoia and a dysfunctional greedy family.
An ARC was received, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
It has been a while since I read an A.B. Whelan novel so when this arrived on my kindle I was beyond excited because I knew I was in for a thrilling and suspenseful read. This story did not disappoint!
From the first page you will be captivated by the storytelling surrounding the sudden disappearance of Julia Rose from a family cruise. This event will lead to an all-consuming desire for revenge where the young Annie Adam’s will stop at nothing to avenge Julia’s death.
Secrets and betrayal abound and pasts will come back to haunt those who thought they were long buried. The twists and turns were real and believable. When justice is served will it be worth the trauma and sacrifices encountered along the way?
The backstory of Annie Adam’s was totally unexpected and pivotal to the storytelling. Some of the side characters were so unsavoury and self centred. The author did a wonderful job at portraying this.
I throughly enjoyed the journey this book took me on. It was steeped with revenge, paranoia and a dysfunctional greedy family.
An ARC was received, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 3, 2021
Whelan has earned a definite place at the top of my TBR list always jumping to the next in line to be read. I know I will be reading a well paced, suspenseful, character driven story and this time greed and envy played a large role. When a well known author goes overboard on a cruise was it an accident, murder, or a planned escape. Three years later Annie, named as manager for the estate decides to discover the truth. More shocking and devious than she expected, will she be next?
May 2, 2021
I have to say that I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this book!! It has amazingly unique characters, making it hard to choose one favorite, but I would have to say that Annie is my favorite! All of the characters become "real" people with the authors' in-depth detail into each individuals personality. The twists and turns had me reading on and on, even though I needed to go to bed for work in the a.m., but some things are worth staying up late for!! The ending is shocking and nothing I would have guessed!!!
June 1, 2021
I received an advance reader copy for an honest review so here goes. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It has intrigue, mystery, fantasy, family issues, greed, romance and sex.....what more could you ask for? Annie has a story to tell and is determined to find justice for Julia. I promised not to include spoilers so I won't but I am telling you I couldn't put this down.
June 1, 2021
This Love Kills Me
By : A. B. Whelan
5 🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠
This Love Kills Me is a fast-paced psychological thriller with characters you will not soon forget. From Tony to Brooke , Julia and Annie i loved each one.
I have read a lot of books so far this year. Some have been off the charts good , some were terrible ,and some that were so so. This one is definitely a OFF the charts AMAZING for me. If i could give it 10 stars i would.
I was immersed in this book from the very first page until the astonishing twisted ending !!! I could not stop reading even though i had so much stuff i needed to get done today . There is so many secrets, and so many suspects . I had to just keep reading.
The storyline was packed full of mystery, suspense, lies and was an excellent psychological thriller. Brilliantly written with twists and turns that keep you guessing right up until the jaw dropping ending .The characters are all very realistic and described so well I really felt that I got to know them all. When the story ended i felt like i lost my best friend. I am a avid psychological thriller reader and I can honestly say that A. B. Whelan has set the bar incredibly high for the others. Seriously one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read in a long time ❗The ending was absolutely perfect and I would LOVE to see this turned into a movie!!!! And PLEASE A. B. Whelan turn this into a series . I need so much more of these characters. 🙏🙏🙏Even though this was a new to me author , she has become one of my favorite authors . I can not wait to read all of her other books.
*******Disclosure*******
I received a free E -ARC copy of this book prior to release. Many thanks to the author for the chance to read and review a copy of this interesting book in exchange for my honest review.
#ThisLiveKillsMe
#ABWhelan
#joycestewartreviews
#bookstagrammers
#bookreviewblogger
#bookwormlife
#books
#reading
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#booknerd11
By : A. B. Whelan
5 🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠
This Love Kills Me is a fast-paced psychological thriller with characters you will not soon forget. From Tony to Brooke , Julia and Annie i loved each one.
I have read a lot of books so far this year. Some have been off the charts good , some were terrible ,and some that were so so. This one is definitely a OFF the charts AMAZING for me. If i could give it 10 stars i would.
I was immersed in this book from the very first page until the astonishing twisted ending !!! I could not stop reading even though i had so much stuff i needed to get done today . There is so many secrets, and so many suspects . I had to just keep reading.
The storyline was packed full of mystery, suspense, lies and was an excellent psychological thriller. Brilliantly written with twists and turns that keep you guessing right up until the jaw dropping ending .The characters are all very realistic and described so well I really felt that I got to know them all. When the story ended i felt like i lost my best friend. I am a avid psychological thriller reader and I can honestly say that A. B. Whelan has set the bar incredibly high for the others. Seriously one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve read in a long time ❗The ending was absolutely perfect and I would LOVE to see this turned into a movie!!!! And PLEASE A. B. Whelan turn this into a series . I need so much more of these characters. 🙏🙏🙏Even though this was a new to me author , she has become one of my favorite authors . I can not wait to read all of her other books.
*******Disclosure*******
I received a free E -ARC copy of this book prior to release. Many thanks to the author for the chance to read and review a copy of this interesting book in exchange for my honest review.
#ThisLiveKillsMe
#ABWhelan
#joycestewartreviews
#bookstagrammers
#bookreviewblogger
#bookwormlife
#books
#reading
#bookblogger
#booknerd11
May 24, 2021
This book was a thrill-a-minute-roller-coaster-ride, without a safety harness.
Have you ever stayed up really late, because you just had to finish a book? Well, expect that to happen with this book ... and believe me, it has been quite a while since a book has kept me up, and I have had to force myself to actually 'close' the book and go to sleep, or risk being a total sleep deprived Zombie the next day, or I've just thought bugger it, I need to finish, I have to know!
I absolutely loved this book, it had so much to offer. Some absolutely deplorable characters, characters that you love one minutes and then hate the next, those that you think you can trust and then you're not so sure! I felt like a ping pong ball, with all the back and forth.
Well-woven, web of lies, secrets, deception ... highly recommended that you read this gem of a tale.
The only negative was that towards the end, the last few chapters, the book lost a bit of it's steam. But then again, I suppose every roller-coaster has to slow down before it stops.
Thank you to the author for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book, this review is left voluntarily
Have you ever stayed up really late, because you just had to finish a book? Well, expect that to happen with this book ... and believe me, it has been quite a while since a book has kept me up, and I have had to force myself to actually 'close' the book and go to sleep, or risk being a total sleep deprived Zombie the next day, or I've just thought bugger it, I need to finish, I have to know!
I absolutely loved this book, it had so much to offer. Some absolutely deplorable characters, characters that you love one minutes and then hate the next, those that you think you can trust and then you're not so sure! I felt like a ping pong ball, with all the back and forth.
Well-woven, web of lies, secrets, deception ... highly recommended that you read this gem of a tale.
The only negative was that towards the end, the last few chapters, the book lost a bit of it's steam. But then again, I suppose every roller-coaster has to slow down before it stops.
Thank you to the author for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book, this review is left voluntarily
May 24, 2021
This book was amazing from a first time new to me Author ✍️. I savored every last page which was good to the entire last drop. The writing flowed just how I liked it. The characters were throwed off which made the story even better to me. I will admit that it was hard for me to figure things out which makes for an excellent suspense/thriller 📚
This book takes place with Annie who is determined to figure out what happened to Julia who suddenly disappeared during a family cruise 🚢 who happens to be very wealthy. With that being said anyone could be a suspect and Annie is relentless in finding out what really happened . This was a stay up late read for me and I would recommend this book to everyone that I know. This author will now be on my favorites list.
Also thank you to the Author for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion
This book takes place with Annie who is determined to figure out what happened to Julia who suddenly disappeared during a family cruise 🚢 who happens to be very wealthy. With that being said anyone could be a suspect and Annie is relentless in finding out what really happened . This was a stay up late read for me and I would recommend this book to everyone that I know. This author will now be on my favorites list.
Also thank you to the Author for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion
June 1, 2021
A MUST for your TBR list! Fast-paced! Riveting! Exciting! Addictive! Not only is this a very well-written book with wonderfully-interesting characters, but the suspense builds at just the right pace as the story unfolds. It was an artful melding of twisted thrills and heart-pounding action that kept me hanging on every word the whole way!
*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.
May 16, 2021
The story is about a young woman with an agenda: revenge for what was done to another.
Diary entries of the victim help implement the revenge plan.
But what happens, when diary entries are just fragments of an old life? - Are they really a reliable source? And worse, what happens when the search for justice suddenly becomes an obsession without borders? - Will the truth come to light anyway? Or does she have to remain buried deeply?
"This Love Kills Me" is an gripping revenge thriller with the bitter taste that life is rarely fair.
Diary entries of the victim help implement the revenge plan.
But what happens, when diary entries are just fragments of an old life? - Are they really a reliable source? And worse, what happens when the search for justice suddenly becomes an obsession without borders? - Will the truth come to light anyway? Or does she have to remain buried deeply?
"This Love Kills Me" is an gripping revenge thriller with the bitter taste that life is rarely fair.
June 3, 2021
Having Julia’s diary should help solve the mystery of what happened and why . Julia’s life was one big crazy train and Annie is determined to find out what happened to Julia on that cruise ship. There’s a plethora of characters that might have had the motive but the more this book reveals the sadder it became to me that the people she had in her life betrayed her. There are gut wrenching moments in this story. This an amazing psychological thriller and just when I thought I had the answers I’d be wrong. I don’t want to spoil anything for you because it’s a thrilling read. A must read!
May 31, 2021
How far will one person go to get revenge for a person they feel was murdered. Get ready to go on a thrill ride as this book pulls you in and doesn't let you go until the very end. This psychological thriller is fast paced, and is full of so many twists and turns, lies, secrets, and the shocking conclusion at the end. I most certainly would recommend this book to others. I received an ARC from the author, and am under no obligation to leave a favorable review all opinions expressed here are my own.
June 1, 2021
BOOK CLUB QUESTIONS
1. Do you think it’s important to read books about human trafficking, even if there is very little that we can do to change the world?
2. What do you think why Annie was so obsessed with finding out the truth about the incident on the cruise ship?
3. Do you consider Brooke a positive or a negative role model in Annie’s life?
4. What do you think why some women are obsessed with plastic surgery?
5. What do you think of hypochondria?
6. Do you believe that broken people like Annie can be mended and live a happy life?
7. Who did you suspect was the one who pushed Julia overboard? Did it change throughout the book? If you guessed correctly, when did you begin to suspect? How did you feel when you found out who it was?
8. Were you surprised when the culprit was revealed? Did the person get a fair sentence, in your opinion?
9. What do you think about Julia and Tony’s marriage? Do you believe that Julia was ready to leave her husband?
10. Do you know any husband who is emotionally affected by his wife’s more considerable success?
11. If you were a millionaire, would you employ your family members or keep your private life and business separate?
12. What do you think of people who suppress their emotional pain with illegal drugs and prescription meds? Do you believe there is a better way to make us feel better?
13. What makes us more human? Letting our raw emotions inspire our decisions or living a controlled, organized life?
14. What was your favorite part of the book?
15. What was your least favorite?
16. Did you race to the end, or was it more of a slow burn?
17. Which scene has stuck with you the most?
18. What did you think of the writing? Are there any standout sentences?
19. Did you reread any passages? If so, which ones?
20. Would you want to read another book by this author?
21. Did reading the book impact your mood? If yes, how so?
22. What surprised you most about the book?
23. How did your opinion of the book change as you read it?
24. If you could ask the author anything, what would it be?
25. How does the book's title work in relation to the book's contents? If you could give the book a new title, what would it be?
26. Did this book remind you of any other books?
27. How did it impact you? Do you think you'll remember it in a few months or years?
28. Would you ever consider re-reading it? Why or why not?
29. Who do you most want to read this book?
30. Are there lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?
31. Did the book strike you as original?
1. Do you think it’s important to read books about human trafficking, even if there is very little that we can do to change the world?
2. What do you think why Annie was so obsessed with finding out the truth about the incident on the cruise ship?
3. Do you consider Brooke a positive or a negative role model in Annie’s life?
4. What do you think why some women are obsessed with plastic surgery?
5. What do you think of hypochondria?
6. Do you believe that broken people like Annie can be mended and live a happy life?
7. Who did you suspect was the one who pushed Julia overboard? Did it change throughout the book? If you guessed correctly, when did you begin to suspect? How did you feel when you found out who it was?
8. Were you surprised when the culprit was revealed? Did the person get a fair sentence, in your opinion?
9. What do you think about Julia and Tony’s marriage? Do you believe that Julia was ready to leave her husband?
10. Do you know any husband who is emotionally affected by his wife’s more considerable success?
11. If you were a millionaire, would you employ your family members or keep your private life and business separate?
12. What do you think of people who suppress their emotional pain with illegal drugs and prescription meds? Do you believe there is a better way to make us feel better?
13. What makes us more human? Letting our raw emotions inspire our decisions or living a controlled, organized life?
14. What was your favorite part of the book?
15. What was your least favorite?
16. Did you race to the end, or was it more of a slow burn?
17. Which scene has stuck with you the most?
18. What did you think of the writing? Are there any standout sentences?
19. Did you reread any passages? If so, which ones?
20. Would you want to read another book by this author?
21. Did reading the book impact your mood? If yes, how so?
22. What surprised you most about the book?
23. How did your opinion of the book change as you read it?
24. If you could ask the author anything, what would it be?
25. How does the book's title work in relation to the book's contents? If you could give the book a new title, what would it be?
26. Did this book remind you of any other books?
27. How did it impact you? Do you think you'll remember it in a few months or years?
28. Would you ever consider re-reading it? Why or why not?
29. Who do you most want to read this book?
30. Are there lingering questions from the book you're still thinking about?
31. Did the book strike you as original?
August 4, 2021
I’ve loved each book I’ve read by A. B. Whelan, and this one is no different. Julia Rose disappeared mysteriously while on a family cruise. No body was ever found, but she is presumed dead. Many stories circulate around her disappearance- she committed suicide, her husband killed her- all the typical scenarios you’d expect.
Years later, a woman (Annie) shows up to work with Julia Rose’s attorney, Brooke. She takes over the day to day tasks with the Rose family. But who is she really? And why does she seem determined to make the Rose family pay for Julia‘s death?
The story is told through Annie’s point of view while going back in time through the reading of Julia’s diary. This is how we eventually learn more about Annie and ultimately Julia’s fate.
My mind was all over the place with this one. I was always a bit suspicious of Brooke’s motives in working with Annie. But it’s always the husband, right? Of course, each member of Julia’s husbands family were creepy with their own motives. As more details emerge about Julia and Tony’s (husband) relationship, the possible suspects become endless. I could totally see each suspect pushing Julia off that ship.
In the end, I was completely blown away. I didn’t see what happened coming at all. My detective skills were sorely lacking with this one-and that’s a good thing!
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review. #booksirens #abwhelan #thislovekillsme
Years later, a woman (Annie) shows up to work with Julia Rose’s attorney, Brooke. She takes over the day to day tasks with the Rose family. But who is she really? And why does she seem determined to make the Rose family pay for Julia‘s death?
The story is told through Annie’s point of view while going back in time through the reading of Julia’s diary. This is how we eventually learn more about Annie and ultimately Julia’s fate.
My mind was all over the place with this one. I was always a bit suspicious of Brooke’s motives in working with Annie. But it’s always the husband, right? Of course, each member of Julia’s husbands family were creepy with their own motives. As more details emerge about Julia and Tony’s (husband) relationship, the possible suspects become endless. I could totally see each suspect pushing Julia off that ship.
In the end, I was completely blown away. I didn’t see what happened coming at all. My detective skills were sorely lacking with this one-and that’s a good thing!
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review. #booksirens #abwhelan #thislovekillsme
June 2, 2021
Is revenge sweet?
Three years after Julia goes overboard on a family cruise, Annie joins Julia's lawyer armed with Julia's diary in a plot to reveal who pushed Julia overboard. Of course the husband is the prime suspect, but would he kill his wife leaving their young son motherless? Then there's the in-laws, all with their own possible motives to kill Julia. How close is Annie willing to get to her suspects? Will getting too close get her killed?
This is one well written, well plotted and expertly paced psychological thriller. There's a lot to digest with this story. Child abduction and sex slavery is just one of the themes expressed in the story. The use of drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism also plays a part. Although possible triggers, they are essential to the telling of this story. A story, in my opinion, that deserves to be read by as many people as possible.
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Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC to read, review and enjoy.
Three years after Julia goes overboard on a family cruise, Annie joins Julia's lawyer armed with Julia's diary in a plot to reveal who pushed Julia overboard. Of course the husband is the prime suspect, but would he kill his wife leaving their young son motherless? Then there's the in-laws, all with their own possible motives to kill Julia. How close is Annie willing to get to her suspects? Will getting too close get her killed?
This is one well written, well plotted and expertly paced psychological thriller. There's a lot to digest with this story. Child abduction and sex slavery is just one of the themes expressed in the story. The use of drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism also plays a part. Although possible triggers, they are essential to the telling of this story. A story, in my opinion, that deserves to be read by as many people as possible.
.
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC to read, review and enjoy.
May 29, 2021
Millionaire fantasy writer, Julia Rose, disappears one night on a family cruise. Her disappearance is investigated by the police but no clear results are given as to what happened to her or whom is to blame. Three years later Annie Adams becomes the Roses' estate manager with the help of Julia's former attorney and friend, Brooke. Annie is out for revenge on Julia's behalf and begins her own investigation to find out who killed Julia. Was it her husband or another family member?
This was a wild ride of a story. An act of revenge and redemption at its finest. It was filled with mystery, greed, romance, and family drama. I have enjoyed A.B. Whelan's books in the past so I knew I was going to get a story that will stick with me. This one did just that.
TW - drugs, alcohol, sex trafficking
Many thanks to NetGalley and Burbank Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) on May 29, 2021.
This was a wild ride of a story. An act of revenge and redemption at its finest. It was filled with mystery, greed, romance, and family drama. I have enjoyed A.B. Whelan's books in the past so I knew I was going to get a story that will stick with me. This one did just that.
TW - drugs, alcohol, sex trafficking
Many thanks to NetGalley and Burbank Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) on May 29, 2021.
June 1, 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 action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
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 action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 29, 2021
I got this as a arc e book from the author for my i pad. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. I liked the variety of characters in it. I have read other books by this author and liked them too.
May 28, 2021
I received an ARC from the author to review. This is a thriller about family and revenge that you won't want to put down. The book keeps you guessing and keeps you on edge at times. I would recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers with family drama thrown in.
June 18, 2021
To celebrate William and Barbara Rose's 35 wedding anniversary - the two go on a cruise to Cabo. Their son, Tony and his wife (millionaire author) Julia Rose accompany them.
On just the second day at sea, Tony reports that his wife is missing - this to the ship's Captain. Tony mentions also that Julia had drank the night before and was acting out...
It turns out that someone did argue with Julia on the night in question. Unfortunately, the CCTV was unable to capture the identification of who she was arguing with. After the argument, the CCTV did show Julia walking alone.
Accident? Suicide? Homicide? MISSING???
However, we learn that someone is out for revenge...
Yet - is Julia still alive?
An amazing story. HIGHLY recommend!
Many Thanks to Burbank Books and NetGalley for a great read.
On just the second day at sea, Tony reports that his wife is missing - this to the ship's Captain. Tony mentions also that Julia had drank the night before and was acting out...
It turns out that someone did argue with Julia on the night in question. Unfortunately, the CCTV was unable to capture the identification of who she was arguing with. After the argument, the CCTV did show Julia walking alone.
Accident? Suicide? Homicide? MISSING???
However, we learn that someone is out for revenge...
Yet - is Julia still alive?
An amazing story. HIGHLY recommend!
Many Thanks to Burbank Books and NetGalley for a great read.
July 19, 2021
The media, the gossipmongers, and the rich disparage the reputation of Julia Rose after she is declared lost at sea during a cruise, but Annie Adams is determined to get the facts…and…maybe…revenge for her.
A terrible mistake as a fourteen year old girl left Annie broken and afraid, her desire for making it right for Julia has become her driving force. What is left for her, if her need to avenge Julia is taken from her?
I love that the blurb is vague about Annie and gives nothing away, so I will try not to either. Many questions will be answered early in the book, but others….
There are trigger situations, but I don’t want to share them, because I loved that the book was more than I thought it would be and had characters that still managed to care, though their pasts were so damaging and they have suffered so much.
Our age isnt measured in years but how heavy our heart is.
Life isn’t about what you’ve done in the past, but how you overcome your failures and move forward from them.
I love an author that can surprise me with all the details of the story and obstacles the characters must overcome, and A B Whelan does that very well.
Revenge and redemption.
My favorite character has to be Annie, but Brooke is right up there. Both women are psychologically damaged, unable to move on with their lives, but they are both stronger than they believe, diligent and persistent in their effort to solve the mystery of Julia. Maybe they will find peace of mind, or at least a chance of healing.
If you pick up This Love Kills Me by A B Whelan, I wish you luck putting it down before the last page is read. I couldn’t…and it kept me fully engrossed until I got there.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of This Love Kills Me by A B Whelan.
See more at fundinmental
A terrible mistake as a fourteen year old girl left Annie broken and afraid, her desire for making it right for Julia has become her driving force. What is left for her, if her need to avenge Julia is taken from her?
I love that the blurb is vague about Annie and gives nothing away, so I will try not to either. Many questions will be answered early in the book, but others….
There are trigger situations, but I don’t want to share them, because I loved that the book was more than I thought it would be and had characters that still managed to care, though their pasts were so damaging and they have suffered so much.
Our age isnt measured in years but how heavy our heart is.
Life isn’t about what you’ve done in the past, but how you overcome your failures and move forward from them.
I love an author that can surprise me with all the details of the story and obstacles the characters must overcome, and A B Whelan does that very well.
Revenge and redemption.
My favorite character has to be Annie, but Brooke is right up there. Both women are psychologically damaged, unable to move on with their lives, but they are both stronger than they believe, diligent and persistent in their effort to solve the mystery of Julia. Maybe they will find peace of mind, or at least a chance of healing.
If you pick up This Love Kills Me by A B Whelan, I wish you luck putting it down before the last page is read. I couldn’t…and it kept me fully engrossed until I got there.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of This Love Kills Me by A B Whelan.
See more at fundinmental
June 2, 2021
Happy Publication Day! 🎉 Well this was a page turner! What happened to Julia Rose? That’s the mystery that draws you in, but Whelan takes us on a dark journey of revenge that will keep you up reading into the morning hours. Don’t miss this one, available for purchase now! Thank you to Netgalley, Burbank Books and A.B. Whelan for access to this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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