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Redemption
Do you really trust your husband?
That’s what I had to decide. I had it all. At least that’s what people told me. Beauty, brains, and a rich husband. I deserved it too. My fiancé had cheated on me with my best friend. But I won in the end, or at least I thought I had.
Until Christmas of 1999. My ex-fiancé, Danny, showed up at my parents’ house, wanting to talk to my father. Danny’s a police officer, and my father’s a retired officer. A six-year-old girl had disappeared without a trace, resembling a case my father had worked on years earlier.
My parents still loved Danny. The gregarious local cop. A man’s man with manners. What’s not to love? My introverted and awkward husband, Jason, couldn’t compete. My parents weren’t impressed by his money. Jason’s job in finance was too abstract. He made money from other people’s money, like a banker or a loan shark.
I think this made it easier for my family to blame Jason. They were right to blame him. He was alone with her. It was his DNA. It was an impossible choice for me though. My family or my husband. I suppose we all made our choices. We were never the same after that. We all suffered from his terrible crime.
Twenty years later, I had a happy life and a happy family. I wanted to forget the past, but it all came back, forcing me to choose all over again. This time we couldn’t bury the secrets. Jason. Danny. My parents. My daughter. All those missing girls.
Never in a million years could I have seen it coming.
Buy Redemption today if you enjoy page-turning domestic thrillers that will keep you reading late into the night.
Adult language and sexual content.
That’s what I had to decide. I had it all. At least that’s what people told me. Beauty, brains, and a rich husband. I deserved it too. My fiancé had cheated on me with my best friend. But I won in the end, or at least I thought I had.
Until Christmas of 1999. My ex-fiancé, Danny, showed up at my parents’ house, wanting to talk to my father. Danny’s a police officer, and my father’s a retired officer. A six-year-old girl had disappeared without a trace, resembling a case my father had worked on years earlier.
My parents still loved Danny. The gregarious local cop. A man’s man with manners. What’s not to love? My introverted and awkward husband, Jason, couldn’t compete. My parents weren’t impressed by his money. Jason’s job in finance was too abstract. He made money from other people’s money, like a banker or a loan shark.
I think this made it easier for my family to blame Jason. They were right to blame him. He was alone with her. It was his DNA. It was an impossible choice for me though. My family or my husband. I suppose we all made our choices. We were never the same after that. We all suffered from his terrible crime.
Twenty years later, I had a happy life and a happy family. I wanted to forget the past, but it all came back, forcing me to choose all over again. This time we couldn’t bury the secrets. Jason. Danny. My parents. My daughter. All those missing girls.
Never in a million years could I have seen it coming.
Buy Redemption today if you enjoy page-turning domestic thrillers that will keep you reading late into the night.
Adult language and sexual content.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2021
1287 people are currently reading
1272 people want to read
About the author
Phil M. Williams
40 books358 followersPhil M. Williams is the author of twenty-five books primarily in the thriller genre. His thrillers span many subgenres, such as: murder mysteries, political, domestic, dystopian, legal, psychological, and technothrillers. His stories often feature regular Joes and Janes in extraordinary situations that are ripped from today’s headlines.
Williams lives in central Pennsylvania with his wife, Denise. When not writing, he can be found tending their permaculture farm.
If you’d like to read two of his thriller novels for free. Go to http://PhilWBooks.com.
Williams lives in central Pennsylvania with his wife, Denise. When not writing, he can be found tending their permaculture farm.
If you’d like to read two of his thriller novels for free. Go to http://PhilWBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
September 4, 2021
Phil M Williams always writes compelling fiction. And Redemption fits the tag in several ways.
Spanning the period from 1999 to 2020, Redemption is the story of personal and familial tragedy amid legal conspiracies and hidden truths.
Was he really a child predator? Who went out of their way to lie, or cover up the truth, to foster their own ends.
By any definition, if you like Crime Thrillers with realistic dialogue and scenes, and a nail-biting resolution, you’ll enjoy this gripping tale.
Spanning the period from 1999 to 2020, Redemption is the story of personal and familial tragedy amid legal conspiracies and hidden truths.
Was he really a child predator? Who went out of their way to lie, or cover up the truth, to foster their own ends.
By any definition, if you like Crime Thrillers with realistic dialogue and scenes, and a nail-biting resolution, you’ll enjoy this gripping tale.
September 24, 2023
⭐⭐2.5/5
September bookclub read- Instagram: @bad.bitches.with.books
Lets get into it.....
Favorite character: Jason because he ain't no punk (most of the time 😅)
This story started off good and then went left real fast. FIRST OF ALL this is not a thriller just because there is some violence, blood, child molestation etc. Sorry, not sorry. It just was not thrilling for me. No suspense. Yea there were some "oh shit" moments, but there were also a lot of "come on, really?"s & eyerolls. In the beginning the mystery was set nice and I thought things would heat up & get interesting. Chile, no. After page 200 I got bored. Why are there 400 pages? I will tell you why, it is because the author shook things up in the middle and started including lots of unnecessary descriptions and extraness (yes you read that right) that did not need to be included 🙄.
Pros:The trials were intriguing. I wasn't sure exactly who it was for each crime and the continued guessing game was the best part because there were times I was swayed in judgement, which I like.
Cons: 1 plot twist. The jail chapters were too long. I can't tell you how many times I read "showed her palms, showed his palms, she put on her mask and grabbed her hand sanitizer" 🤦🏾♀️ The redundancy. We get it, 20 years later and its during the COVID pandemic.
The missing girls. After the first chapter I completely forgot about the missing girls. They weren't mentioned again for a long time.
I hope I didn't spoil it for you. It is definitely a good airplane read.
September bookclub read- Instagram: @bad.bitches.with.books
Lets get into it.....
Favorite character: Jason because he ain't no punk (most of the time 😅)
This story started off good and then went left real fast. FIRST OF ALL this is not a thriller just because there is some violence, blood, child molestation etc. Sorry, not sorry. It just was not thrilling for me. No suspense. Yea there were some "oh shit" moments, but there were also a lot of "come on, really?"s & eyerolls. In the beginning the mystery was set nice and I thought things would heat up & get interesting. Chile, no. After page 200 I got bored. Why are there 400 pages? I will tell you why, it is because the author shook things up in the middle and started including lots of unnecessary descriptions and extraness (yes you read that right) that did not need to be included 🙄.
Pros:The trials were intriguing. I wasn't sure exactly who it was for each crime and the continued guessing game was the best part because there were times I was swayed in judgement, which I like.
Cons: 1 plot twist. The jail chapters were too long. I can't tell you how many times I read "showed her palms, showed his palms, she put on her mask and grabbed her hand sanitizer" 🤦🏾♀️ The redundancy. We get it, 20 years later and its during the COVID pandemic.
The missing girls. After the first chapter I completely forgot about the missing girls. They weren't mentioned again for a long time.
I hope I didn't spoil it for you. It is definitely a good airplane read.
September 6, 2021
Amazing read!
Mr Williams is an amazing author. His storylines are some of the best I've read and I read a lot. I average about 135 books a year. His writing is like silky poetry. That may be an unusual way to describe someone's writing style but that's the way it feels to me. He is very talented.
Mr Williams books draw you in by mystery and twists and turns that never let go until the last sentence, but even then they are food for thought. The characters are very well developed and believable. I felt as if I was in this story and knew them all personally. The dialogue flows freely and smoothly. The editing is clean. I don't remember any spelling or grammatical errors allowing me to focus on the story itself. Redemption is the kind of book that you can't stand to put down but feel so deflated when it ends. It would make an awesome movie! I strongly recommend this book to anyone that loves a good mystery with a lot of psychological components that really touches your heart.
Mr Williams is an amazing author. His storylines are some of the best I've read and I read a lot. I average about 135 books a year. His writing is like silky poetry. That may be an unusual way to describe someone's writing style but that's the way it feels to me. He is very talented.
Mr Williams books draw you in by mystery and twists and turns that never let go until the last sentence, but even then they are food for thought. The characters are very well developed and believable. I felt as if I was in this story and knew them all personally. The dialogue flows freely and smoothly. The editing is clean. I don't remember any spelling or grammatical errors allowing me to focus on the story itself. Redemption is the kind of book that you can't stand to put down but feel so deflated when it ends. It would make an awesome movie! I strongly recommend this book to anyone that loves a good mystery with a lot of psychological components that really touches your heart.
October 11, 2023
BOOK REVIEW
Review for 'Redemption' by Phil M Williams.
Read and reviewed via Audible for Phil M Williams, Phil W Books, Tristan Wright, Mia Valyn and Grace Wright Productions
Publication dates: Kindle 1st September 2021, Audio 8th March 2022 and Paperback 6th September 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this very talented author but it most certainly won't be my last!!! It is also the first book in the 'Twisty Crime Thriller ' series.
'Redemption' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Phil discusses/includes child abuse, graphic scenes , strong language, $3xu@! @$$@ult, r@p3, p@3d0ph1li@, drugs and knife crime. I would recommend a reading audience of 18 years plus due to these topics.
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Phil Williams!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid and evocative descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline.
As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, very fast paced and I read it in a day. I loved the setting and atmosphere, characters and just well... Everything!!! This is one of those epic storylines that really does show how one moment in time can change so many lives!!! I absolutely loved this twisty and gripping thriller!!! Phil uses multiple perspectives in his storyline and managed to weave them altogether perfectly. We not only get to see what is happening from the view points of Jason, Michelle and April but also from both the past and present timelines spanning over 20 years. Phil weaves the multiple protagonist and multiple timeline perspectives together perfectly to slowly drip feed the reader just enough information to see what is going on and why without giving anything away that spoils the explosive twists!!!
As you delve deeper and deeper into the storyline secrets are revealed, mistakes are made and the pace gets faster and faster!!! During the book there are so many butterfly affects which goes to show how one small action can have such a large ripple affect which could continue for years. This book was extremely fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! It was absolutely ram packed with romance, lies, heartbreak, crime, drama, secrets, mystery, jealousy, family, revenge, heartbreak, tension, suspense and absolutely everything you could ask for in a gripping and heart racing thriller. I was constantly guessing and questioning myself about what was going on and when everything was revealed I was absolutely shocked and had been completely wrong about everything!! This is not an easy feat considering how many books I read a year so a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS Phil!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books and it gets harder and harder to keep my interest and to shock me but Phil managed it hook, line and sinker!!! Just absolutely brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! Phil's evocative writing skills and Tristan and Mia's fantastic narrative skills ensures you are dragged deep into the storyline seeing everything that is happening and feeling the tension and suspense throughout.
This is one of the few books that I have listened to 100% on Audiobook. If I listen to a book on audiobook I usually also read the physical book between but this time I listened to the whole book and I was impressed! I must say a HUGE congratulations to the narrators Tristan Wright and Mia Valyn who both did an amazing job bringing this story and the characters to life with both male and female characters. I would listen to it in the car and while walking at any opportunity. I'm not only looking forward to reading more books by Phil but also to listening to more books narrated by Tristan and Mia!
I was on the edge of my seat and biting my nails wondering what was going to happen next. Phil tackles some very sensitive topics such as child abuse but does it in a sensitive manner which is vital when exploring these issues. It is also evident that he has done his research into all the subjects he has covered including the criminal justice system and it absolutely shines through the pages!!! A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Phil as it is a pet hate of mine when a book is littered with unnecessary errors due to the author not doing enough research. I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! You won't regret it!! The second I have finished writing this up I am going to add all of your books to my wish list and I cannot wait to get hooked into the next book in this series which is called 'No Good Deed' and promises to be just as epic as this book and I cannot wait to read it!!!!
One of the BEST books that I have EVER listened to!! Seriously, grab your copy now you will not regret it!!!
Just like with the storyline the characters come to life with Phil's fantastic writing skills and Tristan and Mia's amazing narrative skills. They are well rounded, complex, realistic and strong making them all the more believable. My heart absolutely broke for two characters in particular and it made me absolutely sick how certain things played out. However, I won't go into any more details as I don't want to risk giving anything away but Phil really has done an amazing job constructing an addictive and explosive psychological thriller with fantastic and varied characters that you just won't be able to put down!! Along with Mia and Tristan's amazing narration this is one of those epic books that you can read anywhere, anytime but grab your tissues at the ready. I am NOT a people person and can watch horrors, etc with no problem but cry at an animal, even a cartoon one , getting injured but Phil actually brought me to tears over fictional humans which is an achievement in itself so well done (on making me cry lol)!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! I cannot wait to get stuck into more of his books and I really hope he continues to write psychological thrillers as he has definitely got one heck of a talent for them!!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Phil on an explosive success!!! I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! I'm off to add the rest of your books to my wish list as I cannot wait to get my teeth into the rest!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
408 pages/ 9 hours 39 minutes
This book is just £4.99 to purchase, free with kindle unlimited, £15.24 on paperback and £16 for the audiobook via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Redemption #TwistyCrimeThrillers #PhilMWilliams #PhilWBooks #TristanWright #MiaValyn #GraceWrightProductions #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited #Audible #Audiobook
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Review for 'Redemption' by Phil M Williams.
Read and reviewed via Audible for Phil M Williams, Phil W Books, Tristan Wright, Mia Valyn and Grace Wright Productions
Publication dates: Kindle 1st September 2021, Audio 8th March 2022 and Paperback 6th September 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this very talented author but it most certainly won't be my last!!! It is also the first book in the 'Twisty Crime Thriller ' series.
'Redemption' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Phil discusses/includes child abuse, graphic scenes , strong language, $3xu@! @$$@ult, r@p3, p@3d0ph1li@, drugs and knife crime. I would recommend a reading audience of 18 years plus due to these topics.
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Phil Williams!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid and evocative descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline.
As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, very fast paced and I read it in a day. I loved the setting and atmosphere, characters and just well... Everything!!! This is one of those epic storylines that really does show how one moment in time can change so many lives!!! I absolutely loved this twisty and gripping thriller!!! Phil uses multiple perspectives in his storyline and managed to weave them altogether perfectly. We not only get to see what is happening from the view points of Jason, Michelle and April but also from both the past and present timelines spanning over 20 years. Phil weaves the multiple protagonist and multiple timeline perspectives together perfectly to slowly drip feed the reader just enough information to see what is going on and why without giving anything away that spoils the explosive twists!!!
As you delve deeper and deeper into the storyline secrets are revealed, mistakes are made and the pace gets faster and faster!!! During the book there are so many butterfly affects which goes to show how one small action can have such a large ripple affect which could continue for years. This book was extremely fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! It was absolutely ram packed with romance, lies, heartbreak, crime, drama, secrets, mystery, jealousy, family, revenge, heartbreak, tension, suspense and absolutely everything you could ask for in a gripping and heart racing thriller. I was constantly guessing and questioning myself about what was going on and when everything was revealed I was absolutely shocked and had been completely wrong about everything!! This is not an easy feat considering how many books I read a year so a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS Phil!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books and it gets harder and harder to keep my interest and to shock me but Phil managed it hook, line and sinker!!! Just absolutely brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! Phil's evocative writing skills and Tristan and Mia's fantastic narrative skills ensures you are dragged deep into the storyline seeing everything that is happening and feeling the tension and suspense throughout.
This is one of the few books that I have listened to 100% on Audiobook. If I listen to a book on audiobook I usually also read the physical book between but this time I listened to the whole book and I was impressed! I must say a HUGE congratulations to the narrators Tristan Wright and Mia Valyn who both did an amazing job bringing this story and the characters to life with both male and female characters. I would listen to it in the car and while walking at any opportunity. I'm not only looking forward to reading more books by Phil but also to listening to more books narrated by Tristan and Mia!
I was on the edge of my seat and biting my nails wondering what was going to happen next. Phil tackles some very sensitive topics such as child abuse but does it in a sensitive manner which is vital when exploring these issues. It is also evident that he has done his research into all the subjects he has covered including the criminal justice system and it absolutely shines through the pages!!! A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Phil as it is a pet hate of mine when a book is littered with unnecessary errors due to the author not doing enough research. I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! You won't regret it!! The second I have finished writing this up I am going to add all of your books to my wish list and I cannot wait to get hooked into the next book in this series which is called 'No Good Deed' and promises to be just as epic as this book and I cannot wait to read it!!!!
One of the BEST books that I have EVER listened to!! Seriously, grab your copy now you will not regret it!!!
Just like with the storyline the characters come to life with Phil's fantastic writing skills and Tristan and Mia's amazing narrative skills. They are well rounded, complex, realistic and strong making them all the more believable. My heart absolutely broke for two characters in particular and it made me absolutely sick how certain things played out. However, I won't go into any more details as I don't want to risk giving anything away but Phil really has done an amazing job constructing an addictive and explosive psychological thriller with fantastic and varied characters that you just won't be able to put down!! Along with Mia and Tristan's amazing narration this is one of those epic books that you can read anywhere, anytime but grab your tissues at the ready. I am NOT a people person and can watch horrors, etc with no problem but cry at an animal, even a cartoon one , getting injured but Phil actually brought me to tears over fictional humans which is an achievement in itself so well done (on making me cry lol)!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! I cannot wait to get stuck into more of his books and I really hope he continues to write psychological thrillers as he has definitely got one heck of a talent for them!!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Phil on an explosive success!!! I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! I'm off to add the rest of your books to my wish list as I cannot wait to get my teeth into the rest!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
408 pages/ 9 hours 39 minutes
This book is just £4.99 to purchase, free with kindle unlimited, £15.24 on paperback and £16 for the audiobook via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#Redemption #TwistyCrimeThrillers #PhilMWilliams #PhilWBooks #TristanWright #MiaValyn #GraceWrightProductions #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited #Audible #Audiobook
@Redemption @TwistyCrimeThrillers @PhilMWilliams @PhilWBooks @TristanWright @MiaValyn @GraceWrightProductions @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Netgalley @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited @Audible @Audiobook
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July 9, 2023
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this excellent novel from the author Phil M. Williams.
I have read 'Redemption' of my own volition and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. Thank you sir for sharing your hard work with me. I am pleased to recommend Phil M. Williams to friends and family.
As with all his novels I have read, Mr. Williams writes an active and refreshingly honest tale, with wholesome protagonists, and really bad bad guys, and he leaves us with a sense of 'being there' throughout this mystery. I did not see the end coming, and I enjoyed the thrust and parry of these P.I. partners and the blending of the family members. Quite a ride.
Reviewed on January 12, 2023, on AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
I have read 'Redemption' of my own volition and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. Thank you sir for sharing your hard work with me. I am pleased to recommend Phil M. Williams to friends and family.
As with all his novels I have read, Mr. Williams writes an active and refreshingly honest tale, with wholesome protagonists, and really bad bad guys, and he leaves us with a sense of 'being there' throughout this mystery. I did not see the end coming, and I enjoyed the thrust and parry of these P.I. partners and the blending of the family members. Quite a ride.
Reviewed on January 12, 2023, on AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
December 29, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up.
I received this Kindle ebook for free thanks to an email from Bookbub. I had previously read another by this author and enjoyed it so thought I'd give it a try. This novel is definitely not for the squeamish, as it dives deep into some sensitive topics (pedophilia, prison violence, violence against children) and gets graphic in some cases. Still, I found it to be an immersive page turner. The trial was compelling; the prison section seemed well-researched if a bit overly lengthy, and April's search for the truth in this case was well done.
All in all, I enjoyed it, but as a self-published novel, it could have used a good copy editor. I noticed a few distracting punctuation and grammar errors. A good editor could have also toned down the excessive repetition, especially the precautions April took vis-a-vis COVID. How many times did we need to hear about her mask or applying hand sanitizer? They added nothing to the story. These nitpicks took a star off my rating but would not prevent me from reading another from this author. He can definitely spin a compelling story.
I received this Kindle ebook for free thanks to an email from Bookbub. I had previously read another by this author and enjoyed it so thought I'd give it a try. This novel is definitely not for the squeamish, as it dives deep into some sensitive topics (pedophilia, prison violence, violence against children) and gets graphic in some cases. Still, I found it to be an immersive page turner. The trial was compelling; the prison section seemed well-researched if a bit overly lengthy, and April's search for the truth in this case was well done.
All in all, I enjoyed it, but as a self-published novel, it could have used a good copy editor. I noticed a few distracting punctuation and grammar errors. A good editor could have also toned down the excessive repetition, especially the precautions April took vis-a-vis COVID. How many times did we need to hear about her mask or applying hand sanitizer? They added nothing to the story. These nitpicks took a star off my rating but would not prevent me from reading another from this author. He can definitely spin a compelling story.
January 23, 2024
Who molested Becky
Jason is married to Michelle. Her family does not like him. When it appears that Becky, a six year old child, has Bern molested the entire family blamed Jason because Becky said it was him. He goes to trial, is found guilty but keeps proclaiming his innocence. Michelle has remarried her childhood sweetheart. She has a daughter who may or may not be Jason's. This is a very good book that has several twists and turns. I think you will enjoy this book.
Jason is married to Michelle. Her family does not like him. When it appears that Becky, a six year old child, has Bern molested the entire family blamed Jason because Becky said it was him. He goes to trial, is found guilty but keeps proclaiming his innocence. Michelle has remarried her childhood sweetheart. She has a daughter who may or may not be Jason's. This is a very good book that has several twists and turns. I think you will enjoy this book.
September 27, 2022
PARTS OF THIS BOOK WAS HARD FOR ME TO READ, TOO GRAPHIC AND DEPRESSION. I HAD TO SKIP THROUGH IT, SO HORRIBLE AND SO REAL. A HORRIBLE SUBJECT MATTER HAD I KNOWN I WOULD NEVER HAVE READ THIS BOOK. IT IS VERY WELL WRITTEN BUT THE DISMAL SUBJECT (just not for me) THATS WHY I KNOCKED OFF A STAR. I KEPT WAITING FOR THE REDEMPTION AND IT WAS TOO LONG COMING. ;<
August 17, 2022
Wow!
This book was about a number of bad things that affected numerous peoples lives. Then the end of the book was completely unexpected. I won't give away the plot but be prepared for some gut wrenching events when you read this book.
This book was about a number of bad things that affected numerous peoples lives. Then the end of the book was completely unexpected. I won't give away the plot but be prepared for some gut wrenching events when you read this book.
October 21, 2022
It was a good story but the end was too rushed and tidy. What started out as quite promising left me feeling disappointed.
August 16, 2022
Wow … this book was amazing and hit every emotion I have! For those who are triggered by abuse, this may not be for you. However if you like a book about love deceit injustice and justice and family and despair and lies and finding truth and a whole host of other things … this may be something you can dig into. Highly Recommend!!!
November 9, 2023
This book was a page turner from beginning to end. There are some spots of graphic descriptions but a mature reader should be able to understand they were necessary to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this on my new Kindle Fire 🔥 HD 8, of course, that made the page turning all the more satisfying.
August 15, 2022
Accused
This book was so suspenseful and thought provoking that I couldn't put it down. Everyone endured so much, especially Jason, and there were so many lies. Police, prison, and prejudice round out the cast of characters.
This book was so suspenseful and thought provoking that I couldn't put it down. Everyone endured so much, especially Jason, and there were so many lies. Police, prison, and prejudice round out the cast of characters.
April 17, 2023
Wow, what a book. Jason used to play in the basement with Becky when she was 6 years old. But then the awful thing happened to her. She said Jason did it.
January 22, 2023
A total rush to judgement which ruined many lives….
March 19, 2025
Redemption
I read a lot of novels. This is by far one of the best stories I have read. The story was well written and unlike several novels, there was no filler. Usually, authors add details and information that tends to drag the story out! Not the case here. What a fantastic read.
I read a lot of novels. This is by far one of the best stories I have read. The story was well written and unlike several novels, there was no filler. Usually, authors add details and information that tends to drag the story out! Not the case here. What a fantastic read.
July 10, 2022
Wow!
Obviously I am not a writer using "Wow!" as a review title but this book has it all. I was along for the ride throughout this story. The first part had me almost convinced that the author was a female due to the emotional rollercoaster the wife experienced in Part one. Part two followed with hard truths and a stoic attitude that is most seen in the male of our species. And from there the plot thickens and intertwines until you can't catch your breath until you've finished the book.
So well written and well edited that I was able to feel the entire story without the distraction of wrong or misspelled words.
Parts of the story were hard to read because of the graphic truths portrayed so if you are looking for rainbows and butter cups don't read this one. But if you enjoy a dose of reality served up in your fiction, you won't want to miss this one.
Thank you Mr. Williams for a story well told. I will definitely be reading more of your books.
Obviously I am not a writer using "Wow!" as a review title but this book has it all. I was along for the ride throughout this story. The first part had me almost convinced that the author was a female due to the emotional rollercoaster the wife experienced in Part one. Part two followed with hard truths and a stoic attitude that is most seen in the male of our species. And from there the plot thickens and intertwines until you can't catch your breath until you've finished the book.
So well written and well edited that I was able to feel the entire story without the distraction of wrong or misspelled words.
Parts of the story were hard to read because of the graphic truths portrayed so if you are looking for rainbows and butter cups don't read this one. But if you enjoy a dose of reality served up in your fiction, you won't want to miss this one.
Thank you Mr. Williams for a story well told. I will definitely be reading more of your books.
September 22, 2022
I am in the minority with my opinion. I have read a few of this author's other books and found that even though the plots were predictable it was the writing that I found engrossing. I found the storytelling was what kept my flying through the pages. With this book, I found the writing was very flat and dull for the majority of the story. The only part of the story that I found had a pulse were the prison chapters. That portion brought the character to life, it was atmospheric and gut wrenching. The prison was a character unto itself. The rest of the story I found bland, specially because of the subject matter. The crime he' accused of should have been horrifying but I found it wasn't given enough weight, partially because child-Becky didn't seem affected. I, as a reader, wasn't really SHOWN Becky's trauma. That lack of attention to her character at this part of the story, even Susie's, really diluted the impact of the crime. And of course the villain was super obvious from the start.
February 8, 2024
It is difficult to describe the feelings that this story evokes. There are so many twists and turns and variety of evil all of which a reader may identify and recognise from life as we experience it today. False accusations, small town prejudices, family squabbles, parental imbalances, and just plain monetary greed. The author has done an exceptional job in addressing these human failings and bringing them together in a story that is easy to read and difficult to put down. It covers several stages of life of the main character and other central characters. From teenage indiscretions (if we can call growing up that), family life, renewal of family life after unthinkable accusations are “legally” proven, imprisonment, violence in the prison system, exoneration after new evidence and the need for the subsequent generation to know the truth, when there are many plausible reasons for the truth to be kept secret.
An excellent read which makes the reader really think about life as we know it today!
Moses
An excellent read which makes the reader really think about life as we know it today!
Moses
March 11, 2022
Phil M Williams has written a dramatic story in which a wife was faced with horrible choices once her husband's DNA was found in a place where it shouldn't be. I meant to listen to the audiobook for a couple of hours, but once I started, I couldn't stop, and I stayed up late just to hear the end. Phil's ability with words captured my interest and engendered feelings for both the wife and the husband who were caught up in a horrible nightmare. I recommend this book to others, with the reminder that it is for mature audiences. Tristan Wright's and Mia Valyn's dual narrations complemented each other and added to the story's theme. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily posted this review.
October 28, 2022
Felt like a super long version of Law and Order: SVU. I really appreciated the story from different perspectives and you really felt the characters’ pain.
Like a show, sometimes it felt too preachy with the politics discussion and COVID, which didn’t add to the story and would have been fine without. I don’t know about other readers, but when I read fiction, I want to get away from the chaos of the world, not dragged back into it.
Clocking in at over 400 pages, I expected a longer explanation at the end versus just a wham bam thank you ma’am conclusion with a rushed ending.
Overall, I enjoyed the writing style, but not sure this book was for me.
Like a show, sometimes it felt too preachy with the politics discussion and COVID, which didn’t add to the story and would have been fine without. I don’t know about other readers, but when I read fiction, I want to get away from the chaos of the world, not dragged back into it.
Clocking in at over 400 pages, I expected a longer explanation at the end versus just a wham bam thank you ma’am conclusion with a rushed ending.
Overall, I enjoyed the writing style, but not sure this book was for me.
February 29, 2024
Very intense… I couldn’t put it down!
An intense, often heart wrenching, story that had me reading long after I should have been asleep. I just couldn’t put it down. This is so well written that I, as the reader, could feel the horror and frustration of the protagonist. After I finished reading, I couldn’t shake the feeling of how awful prison must be and then compounded by being innocent. This excerpt said it all for me:
“Your prison is a living hell that does nothing to rehabilitate. It only dehumanizes and degrades. You can’t control the evil inside. You can’t even control the evil within your own guards.”
An excellent read that is not for the faint of heart.
An intense, often heart wrenching, story that had me reading long after I should have been asleep. I just couldn’t put it down. This is so well written that I, as the reader, could feel the horror and frustration of the protagonist. After I finished reading, I couldn’t shake the feeling of how awful prison must be and then compounded by being innocent. This excerpt said it all for me:
“Your prison is a living hell that does nothing to rehabilitate. It only dehumanizes and degrades. You can’t control the evil inside. You can’t even control the evil within your own guards.”
An excellent read that is not for the faint of heart.
September 3, 2021
No one tackles the ugly truths of society and humanity like this author. Bravo for tackling such a difficult and uncomfortable subject with your typical brilliance. One thing I particularly liked is the pace. It truly felt as if I were living alongside the character’s experiences.
When someone is accused ofsomething truly heinous can they ever be separated from the accusation? This story beautifully illustrates the reality of long-termeffects and the insidious and pervasive changes one event can create in multiple lives.
When someone is accused ofsomething truly heinous can they ever be separated from the accusation? This story beautifully illustrates the reality of long-termeffects and the insidious and pervasive changes one event can create in multiple lives.
September 9, 2021
PAGE TURNER
I gave this book five stars because rarely does a book in this genre hold my attention past the first chapter. I did not want to put it down.
First of all the author used names for the characters that were easy to remember and, for me, easier to visualize the character. The plot had many "twists and turns" and was so vivid I could feel the emotions of each individual. Rather than use any "spoiler s" in this review, let me just tell you that the story line was well developed and thought out. For an outstanding read, put this one at the top of your list.
I gave this book five stars because rarely does a book in this genre hold my attention past the first chapter. I did not want to put it down.
First of all the author used names for the characters that were easy to remember and, for me, easier to visualize the character. The plot had many "twists and turns" and was so vivid I could feel the emotions of each individual. Rather than use any "spoiler s" in this review, let me just tell you that the story line was well developed and thought out. For an outstanding read, put this one at the top of your list.
September 10, 2021
I got this book because of the build up! It said it would have lot's of twists and turns. In that sense it did not disappoint. I could not put it down. I was waiting for the unbelievable ending that was suppose to come...but it never came. I was so disappointed in the ending. Don't get me wrong, I loved the storyline, but I was expecting this sudden turn at the end and it turned out to be exactly who I thought it was...no surprise there. Plus it just left you hanging. For as great as this book started, I expected more from the ending...but it's still a great read!
June 20, 2022
This one will stay with me
Few books leave me feeling ... unsettled. Michelle and Jason are happily married, until he is accused of molesting her 3 year-old niece. Lies, told with the intent to minimize the trauma, lead to several broken lives including the child. Truths take 20 years to surface, but those years can never be relived. Sorrowful. Moving. Despite this lingering sadness, I highly recommend this book. It would be perfect for book clubs as an outlet to discuss the crime, the judicial process, marital trust, extended family relationships, regrets, redemption.
Few books leave me feeling ... unsettled. Michelle and Jason are happily married, until he is accused of molesting her 3 year-old niece. Lies, told with the intent to minimize the trauma, lead to several broken lives including the child. Truths take 20 years to surface, but those years can never be relived. Sorrowful. Moving. Despite this lingering sadness, I highly recommend this book. It would be perfect for book clubs as an outlet to discuss the crime, the judicial process, marital trust, extended family relationships, regrets, redemption.
September 20, 2022
WOW!!
First book I've read by Mr. Williams and it certainly won't be the last. The realism and timeliness, the descriptive characterizations and situations are simply mindboggleing! This book has and will stay with me for a very long time. And one cannot help but wonder how many people have been wrongly accused and convicted of crimes they didn't commit. And how little it would have taken, how very little, to prevent a person's life being changed irrevocably and irreversibly.
First book I've read by Mr. Williams and it certainly won't be the last. The realism and timeliness, the descriptive characterizations and situations are simply mindboggleing! This book has and will stay with me for a very long time. And one cannot help but wonder how many people have been wrongly accused and convicted of crimes they didn't commit. And how little it would have taken, how very little, to prevent a person's life being changed irrevocably and irreversibly.
September 29, 2022
Another well deserves 5 star rating
I first read Against the Grain as a freebie from the author. I wish he was a more prolific writer because there is too much time between novels.
Mr Williams writes like he is sitting across the room from me telling a story. The characters are well crafted and give me a somewhat visualization of what they look like and act. The storyline is always so well written that I never lose focus. He is a fabulous author that I look forward to each book. I heartily recommend this book to every reader.
I first read Against the Grain as a freebie from the author. I wish he was a more prolific writer because there is too much time between novels.
Mr Williams writes like he is sitting across the room from me telling a story. The characters are well crafted and give me a somewhat visualization of what they look like and act. The storyline is always so well written that I never lose focus. He is a fabulous author that I look forward to each book. I heartily recommend this book to every reader.
January 14, 2023
I WAS up all night.
A very impressive, violent, tragic, true to life read. Who molested Becky? Was it Jason? It had me guessing all throughout.
This book is in 4 parts. Pt 1. Jason and Michelle's married life. Pt 2. Jason's tragic, violent prison life. Pt. 3. April's up bringing and curiosity. Pt 4. Jason now.
Start this book early. You cant put it down. I WAS up all night. It is so real. It is so well written. It is so well told. Great plot. Great mystery. Edge of your seat . Wonderful characters. I loved it!
A very impressive, violent, tragic, true to life read. Who molested Becky? Was it Jason? It had me guessing all throughout.
This book is in 4 parts. Pt 1. Jason and Michelle's married life. Pt 2. Jason's tragic, violent prison life. Pt. 3. April's up bringing and curiosity. Pt 4. Jason now.
Start this book early. You cant put it down. I WAS up all night. It is so real. It is so well written. It is so well told. Great plot. Great mystery. Edge of your seat . Wonderful characters. I loved it!
December 16, 2023
A tough read but worth it.
The subject matter in this story isn't an easy read but the story is told so well that it's still one of those books where you're just desperate to find out as quickly as possible what happens next.
It's a sad indictment in many ways of the pathetic justice system, not just in the US but many other countries too, and how it can so easily be corrupted. When that happens the actual guilty party is then never pursued and gets away with their crimes, in some cases forever, which is the saddest part of all for me.
The subject matter in this story isn't an easy read but the story is told so well that it's still one of those books where you're just desperate to find out as quickly as possible what happens next.
It's a sad indictment in many ways of the pathetic justice system, not just in the US but many other countries too, and how it can so easily be corrupted. When that happens the actual guilty party is then never pursued and gets away with their crimes, in some cases forever, which is the saddest part of all for me.
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