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The Cornish Retribution
A suspenseful and gripping psychological thriller, perfect for fans of domestic noir.
After a tragic car accident, Samantha is left widowed and bereft. Her husband Adam was everything to her. But at least the home they shared together in Cornwall provides her with some security. Or does it?
Upon returning from a school reunion in Sheffield, where Sam met her old friend, Penny, and an old flame from her school days, Dan, she discovers that Adam had invested money unwisely and she is now penniless.
When Penny and Dan, who are now married, arrive in Cornwall to visit Sam, Dan comes up with a way in which Sam can keep the house. He suggests she turns it into a writing retreat. And he is willing to invest.
Despite his wife's reservations, Dan gets his way but at what price?
Why is Dan so keen to help? Has Sam put herself in harm's way?
Amanda James is the bestselling author of Another Mother, Deep Water and The Calico Cat. The Cornish Retribution is a chilling thriller which will appeal to fans of authors like Cara Hunter, Louise Jensen, and Greer Hendricks.
After a tragic car accident, Samantha is left widowed and bereft. Her husband Adam was everything to her. But at least the home they shared together in Cornwall provides her with some security. Or does it?
Upon returning from a school reunion in Sheffield, where Sam met her old friend, Penny, and an old flame from her school days, Dan, she discovers that Adam had invested money unwisely and she is now penniless.
When Penny and Dan, who are now married, arrive in Cornwall to visit Sam, Dan comes up with a way in which Sam can keep the house. He suggests she turns it into a writing retreat. And he is willing to invest.
Despite his wife's reservations, Dan gets his way but at what price?
Why is Dan so keen to help? Has Sam put herself in harm's way?
Amanda James is the bestselling author of Another Mother, Deep Water and The Calico Cat. The Cornish Retribution is a chilling thriller which will appeal to fans of authors like Cara Hunter, Louise Jensen, and Greer Hendricks.
240 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2018
45 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Amanda James
24 books226 followersAmanda James (aka Mandy) was born in Sheffield and now lives in Cornwall with her husband and a cat. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, singing, and spending lots of time with her grandchildren. She also admits to spending far too much time chatting on Twitter and Facebook! Amanda feels most at home walking on the beach and making plots up in her head. A fair amount of these have made it onto paper, and been turned into books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
October 5, 2018
This book was a wild and crazy ride straight into crazy town!
When I finish this book all I could think was what the..... did I just read??? This book reached in to my mind and turned it inside out, and I’m not sure if it is the right way quite yet.... this will be a vague review, because I don’t want to spoil a single moment of it for you.... A book that just confirms the fact that you can, hate. every. single. character. in a book and still like the book....
Sam has lost her husband Adam to a freak accident involving cattle... soon after her husband dies she returns home to attend a class reunion and that is where she reunites with Penny and Dan... Dan ex-boyfriend and Penny ex best friend are now a married couple and have decided to move to Cornwall with Sam... at first I had a tremendous amount of sympathy for Sam and I thought she was being duped and then she turned into a woman possessed.... three unlikable characters doing dastardly things bordering on the line of insanity.... are Sam, Dan, and Penny collectively nuts? Why are they doing such bizarre and hateful things? Who’s duping who?
A beautiful setting with so much ugliness going on... this is the type of book that has you turning those pages into the middle of the night, because you just need to know! Absolutely recommend if you are a fan of a good twisty story!
*** A huge thanks to the author and the publisher for my copy of this book ***
When I finish this book all I could think was what the..... did I just read??? This book reached in to my mind and turned it inside out, and I’m not sure if it is the right way quite yet.... this will be a vague review, because I don’t want to spoil a single moment of it for you.... A book that just confirms the fact that you can, hate. every. single. character. in a book and still like the book....
Sam has lost her husband Adam to a freak accident involving cattle... soon after her husband dies she returns home to attend a class reunion and that is where she reunites with Penny and Dan... Dan ex-boyfriend and Penny ex best friend are now a married couple and have decided to move to Cornwall with Sam... at first I had a tremendous amount of sympathy for Sam and I thought she was being duped and then she turned into a woman possessed.... three unlikable characters doing dastardly things bordering on the line of insanity.... are Sam, Dan, and Penny collectively nuts? Why are they doing such bizarre and hateful things? Who’s duping who?
A beautiful setting with so much ugliness going on... this is the type of book that has you turning those pages into the middle of the night, because you just need to know! Absolutely recommend if you are a fan of a good twisty story!
*** A huge thanks to the author and the publisher for my copy of this book ***
October 5, 2018
4☆ Suspenseful Drama/Thriller
The Cornish Retribution is a suspense crime drama/thriller about trust and manipulation.
I love Amanda's books, so when I see this book I couldn't wait to delve in. Again Amanda has delivered a suspenseful and thrilling read, with great characters and an Atmospheric twisting plot.
Sam lost her husband in a tragic car accident. Dealing with her grief and juggling her work as an author she is struggling to make ends meet. Especially when she finds out her husband left her with nothing.
Sam's daughter feels her Mum could do with some light hearted fun. So when a School reunion comes up, Sam decides to go.
The idea of a School reunion feels me with dread. But hats off to Sam, she bravely goes.
It's here she reconnected with her old ex best friend Penny and ex boyfriend Dan.
Dan and Penny are now together, but he isn't happy.
It's quiet clear early on that there is a sexual spark between Sam and Dan.
So when Dan offers to help Sam, its only a matter of time before the sexual spark that is sizzling between them and the potential to take it to the next level.
As Sam gets herself deeper involved with Dan and Penny her life unravels even more!
She has no idea what she has let herself in for, as Dan becomes dangerously manipulative and things become more chilling.
I loved The Cornish Retribution, the plot thickens as the story unfolds, keeping the reader on edge as you try to work out agendas and who to trust.
The characters are deeply flawed and not necessarily likeable, but that just adds to the drama and chemistry between them.
There are a few subtle twists and turns to keep the readers attention which I love.
Overall another fabulous book by Amanda James. Would recommend reading this gripping book if you enjoy suspenseful Crime Drama/Thrillers that has a chilling atmospheric feel.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
The Cornish Retribution is a suspense crime drama/thriller about trust and manipulation.
I love Amanda's books, so when I see this book I couldn't wait to delve in. Again Amanda has delivered a suspenseful and thrilling read, with great characters and an Atmospheric twisting plot.
Sam lost her husband in a tragic car accident. Dealing with her grief and juggling her work as an author she is struggling to make ends meet. Especially when she finds out her husband left her with nothing.
Sam's daughter feels her Mum could do with some light hearted fun. So when a School reunion comes up, Sam decides to go.
The idea of a School reunion feels me with dread. But hats off to Sam, she bravely goes.
It's here she reconnected with her old ex best friend Penny and ex boyfriend Dan.
Dan and Penny are now together, but he isn't happy.
It's quiet clear early on that there is a sexual spark between Sam and Dan.
So when Dan offers to help Sam, its only a matter of time before the sexual spark that is sizzling between them and the potential to take it to the next level.
As Sam gets herself deeper involved with Dan and Penny her life unravels even more!
She has no idea what she has let herself in for, as Dan becomes dangerously manipulative and things become more chilling.
I loved The Cornish Retribution, the plot thickens as the story unfolds, keeping the reader on edge as you try to work out agendas and who to trust.
The characters are deeply flawed and not necessarily likeable, but that just adds to the drama and chemistry between them.
There are a few subtle twists and turns to keep the readers attention which I love.
Overall another fabulous book by Amanda James. Would recommend reading this gripping book if you enjoy suspenseful Crime Drama/Thrillers that has a chilling atmospheric feel.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/1...
October 6, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I thought that this story was excellent!
It is well written, has a great plot and some fantastic characters. The writing style was great and this author is really well suited to this genre.
I was captivated by the story, it had just the right amount of detail to keep me fully entertained and to keep me guessing. I loved the twists as the plot progressed.
I have read a few books by this author now and she never disappoints – can’t wait to see what she releases next!!
Five stars from me for this one, very highly recommended!!
I thought that this story was excellent!
It is well written, has a great plot and some fantastic characters. The writing style was great and this author is really well suited to this genre.
I was captivated by the story, it had just the right amount of detail to keep me fully entertained and to keep me guessing. I loved the twists as the plot progressed.
I have read a few books by this author now and she never disappoints – can’t wait to see what she releases next!!
Five stars from me for this one, very highly recommended!!
April 4, 2021
Women's Psychological Fiction / Women's Crime Fiction / Contemporary
Samantha (45) is left widowed and bereft after her husband Adam was killed in a car accident 6 months ago. She has her children and grandchild to keep her company but still she feels lonely and aimless. She try to write her new book but her mind is elsewhere. When she sees invitation to her school reunion, she's reluctant to go but her daughter urges her to take the time and go.
After all the years, she meet again her old friend, Penny, and an old flame from her school days, Dan, Penny and Dan are married but have remained childless.
After returning home, she learns something schocking -- her husband Adam had invested their money unwisely and she is now left penniless.
Started off well but the further it progressed the more ridiculous and ugly it became. It was odd how the characters seemed to change personalities. I dislike devious, rude and unpleasant characters!
Sorry I did not like this one even thought synopsis sounded interesting. Ridiculous story and I wasted time reading it.
Samantha (45) is left widowed and bereft after her husband Adam was killed in a car accident 6 months ago. She has her children and grandchild to keep her company but still she feels lonely and aimless. She try to write her new book but her mind is elsewhere. When she sees invitation to her school reunion, she's reluctant to go but her daughter urges her to take the time and go.
After all the years, she meet again her old friend, Penny, and an old flame from her school days, Dan, Penny and Dan are married but have remained childless.
After returning home, she learns something schocking -- her husband Adam had invested their money unwisely and she is now left penniless.
Started off well but the further it progressed the more ridiculous and ugly it became. It was odd how the characters seemed to change personalities. I dislike devious, rude and unpleasant characters!
Sorry I did not like this one even thought synopsis sounded interesting. Ridiculous story and I wasted time reading it.
October 2, 2018
Samantha Lane is distraught at the early death of her beloved husband, and gleans some comfort from her cliff-top Cornish home. Against her better judgement, she heads to Sheffield for a school reunion and makes contact with her one time best friend Penny and former teen boyfriend Dan, now a married couple. On her return, however, she is faced with the bad news that her finances aren't as secure as she thought they were, with her husband having made some very unwise investments, putting the security of her adored home in jeopardy.
When Penny and Dan invite themselves into her life, he comes up with a way to allow her to keep her home but earn an income from it - and he is willing to invest in this business venture. But why? And should she depend on him now when the events of the past have shown that he isn't trustworthy? Penny does her utmost to stop him, but Dan goes ahead with his plans. Why is he so keen?
I warmed to Sam from the very beginning; after a loving marriage abruptly ended she is struggling with unexpected widowhood. Luckily, she has family close by to keep her going. Dan's investment brings him into Sam's life again and the suspense is, at times, palpable. With the proposed business launched successfully, things suddenly change. It's a curious and riveting read, and one which shows off the beauty of Cornwall. This author always writes well; her novels are skilfully crafted and easy to read and this is no exception, with clever plotting and a few twists along the way. I really had no idea where it was heading but, boy, this has some ending and it's so worth waiting for!
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for my copy and inclusion in this Blog Tour. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
When Penny and Dan invite themselves into her life, he comes up with a way to allow her to keep her home but earn an income from it - and he is willing to invest in this business venture. But why? And should she depend on him now when the events of the past have shown that he isn't trustworthy? Penny does her utmost to stop him, but Dan goes ahead with his plans. Why is he so keen?
I warmed to Sam from the very beginning; after a loving marriage abruptly ended she is struggling with unexpected widowhood. Luckily, she has family close by to keep her going. Dan's investment brings him into Sam's life again and the suspense is, at times, palpable. With the proposed business launched successfully, things suddenly change. It's a curious and riveting read, and one which shows off the beauty of Cornwall. This author always writes well; her novels are skilfully crafted and easy to read and this is no exception, with clever plotting and a few twists along the way. I really had no idea where it was heading but, boy, this has some ending and it's so worth waiting for!
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for my copy and inclusion in this Blog Tour. This is my honest, original and unbiased review.
October 4, 2018
The pacing of the story is steady but easily kept my attention throughout with some very interesting twists and surprises. I have to say that the build up in this story was great and written in such a way that kept me turning the pages. Providing an underlying tension beginning when Sam meets up with her old friends Penny and Dan. As they reconnect I was looking forward to seeing where the story would go next.
The characters are developed well and it was very easy to be pulled into their lives. It's safe to say that this group of characters have their flaws and at times I was definitely questioning their actions and responses. However I find that if a character has some unlikeable qualities it can make them all the more interesting. This is never a bad thing for me as it makes me feel even more involved in the story wondering what they will do next! I have to mention the setting for this book as it added a kind of wildness to the story and created a perfect backdrop for the events in the book.
With lies and secrets around every corner, this story is dark and twisty!
The characters are developed well and it was very easy to be pulled into their lives. It's safe to say that this group of characters have their flaws and at times I was definitely questioning their actions and responses. However I find that if a character has some unlikeable qualities it can make them all the more interesting. This is never a bad thing for me as it makes me feel even more involved in the story wondering what they will do next! I have to mention the setting for this book as it added a kind of wildness to the story and created a perfect backdrop for the events in the book.
With lies and secrets around every corner, this story is dark and twisty!
October 1, 2018
We meet Sam Lane whose husband Adam, has been killed in a road accident six months ago. Adam had apparently been travelling too fast around a bend when he encountered a herd of cows.
Sam is a published author who hasn't been able to concentrate on her writing since Adam's death.
Her daughter, Helena with husband and small child live close, while her son Jack, is studying at university.
After the death of her husband, Sam sunk into despair but is gradually pulling herself out of it. She learns of a school reunion and on prompting from her daughter she decides to go. Here she meets up with Dan and Penny - Penny was her best friend through school, that is until she had sex with Dan who just happened to be Sam's boyfriend at the time.
On her return to Cornwall, she has a visit from Robert, her husband's friend and accountant who tells her there is no money for left for her. Adam had made several foolish decisions and invested their money in plans that came to nothing but used up all their money.
When Dan and Penny come to visit they learn of her changed circumstances and Dan comes up with a solution - she can keep her lovely house and he will purchase 25% and they can run a writer's retreat together.
Penny is against this idea fearing that Dan and Sam may get together again over this deal.
Eventually, Sam acknowledges her attraction to Dan, and against her children's wishes, she agrees to marry him.
But all is not well in this beautiful part of the country. This fairy tale has a black side to it. The story unfolds with a suicide(?) and a near-fatal accident, both of which are linked to Dan.
The story is well planned and developed, and totally believable. A recently widowed, fragile woman, a man determined to get his own way at any cost, a wife who is totally controlled by her husband, two adult children who are concerned for their mother and where does this gathering of people end?
Ms James has written a story of trust, broken trust, whom to trust and who not to trust. I encourage you to read this book.
Note: I was given a copy to read by the publishers, Bloodhound Books and I choose to write this review.
October 2, 2018
Samantha (Sam) is recently widowed and struggling to deal with various things. She decides to attend an school reunion and meets up with Penny and Dan. They haven’t seen each other for many years and when Penny and Dan decide to visit. They find Sam isn’t quite as financially secure as she thought she would be and so a business partnership is arranged though not everyone is quite so keen …
One thing I have discovered with this author, no actually there are two things… one is the ability to keep me dangling as she weaves her story and the other is the spectacular setting descriptions.
The setting in this book is the Cornish coastline that provides its own range of characteristics that compliment the characters and the story in the book. The characters themselves are not all they appear to be and take routes I wasn’t expecting. What is a seemingly nice gesture and a friendly helping hand soon turns out to be something quite different.
As I read this book I found my emotions towards the characters changing, one moment feeling sorry for them and at others thinking they’re hiding something or being shocked at their actions.
As the characters were gradually introduced I did wonder how the connections would be made, they came across as nice, normal people…but what is normal? By the end of the book I had been manipulated into various beliefs and thoughts that had me chopping and changing as I read. I have to say the baddie was one that made my skin crawl as I discovered who they were and why they were doing the things they did. You will certainly work out your favourites.
I know this is my usual vague non spoiler review, but it has to be like this. I read this story on one sitting as I got hooked, willing some characters to see sense and hoping others would get their comeuppance. The story line held my attention throughout and I really enjoyed that feeling of not quite being sure about who I could trust or what the truth would eventually be.
If you are a reader who likes a vividly described, atmospheric read that has a plot that has you guessing as it weaves and twists then this is one you should definitely read. A wonderful crime, thriller novel with a psychological edge, its devious, full of suspense, drama and manipulation and one I would highly recommend.
One thing I have discovered with this author, no actually there are two things… one is the ability to keep me dangling as she weaves her story and the other is the spectacular setting descriptions.
The setting in this book is the Cornish coastline that provides its own range of characteristics that compliment the characters and the story in the book. The characters themselves are not all they appear to be and take routes I wasn’t expecting. What is a seemingly nice gesture and a friendly helping hand soon turns out to be something quite different.
As I read this book I found my emotions towards the characters changing, one moment feeling sorry for them and at others thinking they’re hiding something or being shocked at their actions.
As the characters were gradually introduced I did wonder how the connections would be made, they came across as nice, normal people…but what is normal? By the end of the book I had been manipulated into various beliefs and thoughts that had me chopping and changing as I read. I have to say the baddie was one that made my skin crawl as I discovered who they were and why they were doing the things they did. You will certainly work out your favourites.
I know this is my usual vague non spoiler review, but it has to be like this. I read this story on one sitting as I got hooked, willing some characters to see sense and hoping others would get their comeuppance. The story line held my attention throughout and I really enjoyed that feeling of not quite being sure about who I could trust or what the truth would eventually be.
If you are a reader who likes a vividly described, atmospheric read that has a plot that has you guessing as it weaves and twists then this is one you should definitely read. A wonderful crime, thriller novel with a psychological edge, its devious, full of suspense, drama and manipulation and one I would highly recommend.
October 1, 2018
What would you do if the man you loved was not all he seemed to be ? Would you still love him ? Should you still marry him ?
Become engrossed in Sam's life in Cornwall as she works through not only the grief of losing Adam but coming to understand the man she's now falling in love with is not who she thought he is.
An old flame trying to reignite the flames of youth whilst still being married. Dan is back in Sam's life with a business venture but he's unhappily married to Penny.
Keep reading as a body is found and Sam starts to question her mental fragility. A chance encounter with a friend leads to another crisis and all the while Sam fights her feelings for Dan.
As you start towards the end of the book you're in awe of how cleverly the author brings about the conclusion and more than satisfied that it all ended as it did.
Become engrossed in Sam's life in Cornwall as she works through not only the grief of losing Adam but coming to understand the man she's now falling in love with is not who she thought he is.
An old flame trying to reignite the flames of youth whilst still being married. Dan is back in Sam's life with a business venture but he's unhappily married to Penny.
Keep reading as a body is found and Sam starts to question her mental fragility. A chance encounter with a friend leads to another crisis and all the while Sam fights her feelings for Dan.
As you start towards the end of the book you're in awe of how cleverly the author brings about the conclusion and more than satisfied that it all ended as it did.
September 28, 2018
Vina Leekha - Rating 4stars.
“The Cornish Retribution” by Amanda James.
Well what a brisk read this was! Pick it up, and you’re not putting it down. So read it when you are good and free Samantha, the central character, is a writer. We meet her in a very depressed state, after the sudden loss of her husband Adam.The setting, the sea, the house- all these become characters in the book. Each has a life, and becomes an integral part of Samantha’s personality. Attending a school reunion, she meets her best friend from school, Penny, and her first big love, Dan. She goes on to discover that Adam has left her near- penniless. Penny and Dan shift to her town. Dan suggests they turn of the grounds into a writing retreat. Suddenly, there is friction between Penny and Dan. Resentment smoulders. Someone dies- suicide or murder? To find out, do read ”The Cornish Retribution” by Amanda James.
4stars.
“The Cornish Retribution” by Amanda James.
Well what a brisk read this was! Pick it up, and you’re not putting it down. So read it when you are good and free Samantha, the central character, is a writer. We meet her in a very depressed state, after the sudden loss of her husband Adam.The setting, the sea, the house- all these become characters in the book. Each has a life, and becomes an integral part of Samantha’s personality. Attending a school reunion, she meets her best friend from school, Penny, and her first big love, Dan. She goes on to discover that Adam has left her near- penniless. Penny and Dan shift to her town. Dan suggests they turn of the grounds into a writing retreat. Suddenly, there is friction between Penny and Dan. Resentment smoulders. Someone dies- suicide or murder? To find out, do read ”The Cornish Retribution” by Amanda James.
4stars.
September 24, 2018
Samanthas husband Adam is killed in a car accident leaving her a widow. This is such a huge loss for sam, but then she discovers that her husbands accounts are not as they should be and she faces the fact that she is going to lose her idyllic home set on the cornish coastline .
She meets a old flame and her ex best friend at a school reunion. As much as she tries to stay away from them they invite themselves to visit her, when Dan realises she is penniless and is about to lose her home, he is willing to invest and talks her into turning it into a holiday writing retreat. But little does she know what she's about to face !
I enjoyed this novel very much. Dan is one deadly man on a mission and will stop at nothing. I thought that it was a bit predictable with only a couple of surprises in. It's a light but deadly novel, nothing to heavy. It did keep me reading and hard to put down.
She meets a old flame and her ex best friend at a school reunion. As much as she tries to stay away from them they invite themselves to visit her, when Dan realises she is penniless and is about to lose her home, he is willing to invest and talks her into turning it into a holiday writing retreat. But little does she know what she's about to face !
I enjoyed this novel very much. Dan is one deadly man on a mission and will stop at nothing. I thought that it was a bit predictable with only a couple of surprises in. It's a light but deadly novel, nothing to heavy. It did keep me reading and hard to put down.
February 4, 2019
"Stylish drama"
I enjoyed the writing style. It managed to keep the pot boiling throughout. Lots of interesting characters, attractive settings and descriptive passages from the top drawer. A good read indeed.
I enjoyed the writing style. It managed to keep the pot boiling throughout. Lots of interesting characters, attractive settings and descriptive passages from the top drawer. A good read indeed.
September 16, 2018
Really enjoyed my first read by this author set around the north Cornish coastal town of Fisttal an area which I know well.and love. Tells the story of Sam, an author and her innocent visit to a school reunion turns her life upside down and the stories she writes take on a new meaning.
In my opinion the story seemed to finish quite abruptly. However saying this I did really enjoy was easy reading .
In my opinion the story seemed to finish quite abruptly. However saying this I did really enjoy was easy reading .
October 14, 2018
I am a huge fan of Amanda James books; not only are you guaranteed a gripping and suspenseful storyline but the dramatic Cornish landscape is woven into the story as if it's a character in its own right. I have never been to Cornwall but it's definitely somewhere I want to visit after reading Amanda James' fabulous books.
I loved the story of Sam going to her school reunion, the thought of which gives me goosebumps as everyone tries to compete to see who has become the most successful. Recently widowed, Sam makes the decision to go up to Sheffield to face her demons in the form of old flame Dan and ex-best friend Penny who are now married. I could feel the sexual tension between Dan and Sam as the years seemed to melt away as if they were teenagers again, then the temperature plummets when Penny arrives on the scene. Despite their tempestuous history, which they all seem willing to forget, Sam decides to let Dan and Penny invest in her writing retreat...but is this a decision she will regret?
I really worried for Sam as I felt as if she was a fly caught in a spider's web with so much suspense and tension written into the story. Dan seemed too good to be true, swooping in like a knight in shining armour to rescue Sam's home, but I feared he had an ulterior motive. The whole story had me balanced on a knife edge as it spun off in different directions and I wondered who would be left standing at the end.
I am never disappointed by Amanda James books and The Cornish Retribution is no exception. In fact, I think it is one of my favourite Amanda James books; it's suspenseful, gripping and utterly engrossing. A highly recommended read.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I loved the story of Sam going to her school reunion, the thought of which gives me goosebumps as everyone tries to compete to see who has become the most successful. Recently widowed, Sam makes the decision to go up to Sheffield to face her demons in the form of old flame Dan and ex-best friend Penny who are now married. I could feel the sexual tension between Dan and Sam as the years seemed to melt away as if they were teenagers again, then the temperature plummets when Penny arrives on the scene. Despite their tempestuous history, which they all seem willing to forget, Sam decides to let Dan and Penny invest in her writing retreat...but is this a decision she will regret?
I really worried for Sam as I felt as if she was a fly caught in a spider's web with so much suspense and tension written into the story. Dan seemed too good to be true, swooping in like a knight in shining armour to rescue Sam's home, but I feared he had an ulterior motive. The whole story had me balanced on a knife edge as it spun off in different directions and I wondered who would be left standing at the end.
I am never disappointed by Amanda James books and The Cornish Retribution is no exception. In fact, I think it is one of my favourite Amanda James books; it's suspenseful, gripping and utterly engrossing. A highly recommended read.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 2, 2018
I don’t actually know how to write this review! This book kept me up until 1 am reading it, as I was just hooked. I had to find out what was going on! When the tour for this book came up, not going to lie I didn’t even read the blurb I signed up straight away because I loved Rip Current (see my review here!) that Mandy had written and I knew I had to read this straight away!
Now not going to lie, I do not think I have ever read a book where I did not like any of the lead characters. To me, they were all a bit awful in their own way. Yet, I needed to know their story, I had to know why things were being done! Aaaahhhhhhhh
Sam, at the start I really liked her and I felt for her, she has lost her husband Adam a man she was completely and utterly in love with. I was sad for her as it was tragic. He should not have died. Then her daughter Helena (Who I adored!!) coerces Sam to go to a school reunion, where she is reunited with Penny and Dan, two people who ripped her heart out when they were sixteen. After she met them, I began to dislike her, her behaviour was despicable. I get that she was hurt by the pair, but her thoughts, words and her actions were so unkind towards Penny.
Dan and Penny, well where do you start with them! Dan, a womaniser who is not at all nice to Penny, and he is so clearly in love with Sam still. Trying to meet up with her as often as possible and try as he might get himself immersed in her life one way or another. His treatment towards Penny was not deserved and she is treated horribly. Slime and ball.
Penny, again, she did a horrid thing to Sam when they were kids. But she just never learned. She is constantly described as a doormat and she seriously needed a good talking to. She is jealous of Sam, knows Dan wants her, and can’t decide if she wants to be a friend or foe to Sam, spouting secrets off to Dan about Sam.
Once they are entwined in each other’s lives again, disaster strikes and a spiral of unthinkable and bizarre actions happen. I could not get my head around Sam, here was this widow, who yes had been hurt, but began to act like a crazy person. She pushed everyone away and ignored help from people, but why? And did the one thing she said she would never do, it just bemused me to act the way she did. Why couldn’t she see what was going and on and why? However, despite this I could understand some of her actions, maybe I am already in crazy town waiting for her! There is more I want to say but I can’t bear to spoil it so I will seeth quietly.
Now you may be thinking, god this is a negative review..but I assure you it really isn’t! Despite my thoughts on the three people, I LOVED THIS BOOK. If I didn’t it wouldn’t have kept me up all night. It was crazy, and if I am being honest at times a little psychotic, but that is what I thought was great about it. The web of lies and deceit clearly catching up with said characters and the outcome was shocking, to say the least. There is a happy ending, but I am not sure how deserved it was to be fair but that made it all the more a chilling ending to a story. Because I did spend the time (in my head everyone else was asleep!) going WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL!!
I loved being back in Cornwall again, the setting is breathtaking and I wish I could get down there more often and visit the places in the book, they sound peaceful and dare I say it perfect, all of this is garnered from the description we are given. Plus I LOVE all the book covers too, beautiful!
The book kept me hooked until the very last page, it was thrilling to read. It was dark and twisted and it was my cup of tea. I love trying to get into the character’s head to figure out what makes them twisty.
I may have only read two of Ms James books, but I have loved both of them and devoured them both so quickly! In my eyes, she does no wrong! 🙂
Now not going to lie, I do not think I have ever read a book where I did not like any of the lead characters. To me, they were all a bit awful in their own way. Yet, I needed to know their story, I had to know why things were being done! Aaaahhhhhhhh
Sam, at the start I really liked her and I felt for her, she has lost her husband Adam a man she was completely and utterly in love with. I was sad for her as it was tragic. He should not have died. Then her daughter Helena (Who I adored!!) coerces Sam to go to a school reunion, where she is reunited with Penny and Dan, two people who ripped her heart out when they were sixteen. After she met them, I began to dislike her, her behaviour was despicable. I get that she was hurt by the pair, but her thoughts, words and her actions were so unkind towards Penny.
Dan and Penny, well where do you start with them! Dan, a womaniser who is not at all nice to Penny, and he is so clearly in love with Sam still. Trying to meet up with her as often as possible and try as he might get himself immersed in her life one way or another. His treatment towards Penny was not deserved and she is treated horribly. Slime and ball.
Penny, again, she did a horrid thing to Sam when they were kids. But she just never learned. She is constantly described as a doormat and she seriously needed a good talking to. She is jealous of Sam, knows Dan wants her, and can’t decide if she wants to be a friend or foe to Sam, spouting secrets off to Dan about Sam.
Once they are entwined in each other’s lives again, disaster strikes and a spiral of unthinkable and bizarre actions happen. I could not get my head around Sam, here was this widow, who yes had been hurt, but began to act like a crazy person. She pushed everyone away and ignored help from people, but why? And did the one thing she said she would never do, it just bemused me to act the way she did. Why couldn’t she see what was going and on and why? However, despite this I could understand some of her actions, maybe I am already in crazy town waiting for her! There is more I want to say but I can’t bear to spoil it so I will seeth quietly.
Now you may be thinking, god this is a negative review..but I assure you it really isn’t! Despite my thoughts on the three people, I LOVED THIS BOOK. If I didn’t it wouldn’t have kept me up all night. It was crazy, and if I am being honest at times a little psychotic, but that is what I thought was great about it. The web of lies and deceit clearly catching up with said characters and the outcome was shocking, to say the least. There is a happy ending, but I am not sure how deserved it was to be fair but that made it all the more a chilling ending to a story. Because I did spend the time (in my head everyone else was asleep!) going WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL!!
I loved being back in Cornwall again, the setting is breathtaking and I wish I could get down there more often and visit the places in the book, they sound peaceful and dare I say it perfect, all of this is garnered from the description we are given. Plus I LOVE all the book covers too, beautiful!
The book kept me hooked until the very last page, it was thrilling to read. It was dark and twisted and it was my cup of tea. I love trying to get into the character’s head to figure out what makes them twisty.
I may have only read two of Ms James books, but I have loved both of them and devoured them both so quickly! In my eyes, she does no wrong! 🙂
October 5, 2018
Amanda James, is on of the authors I have on my radar for new books coming out! I am pleased to see The Cornish Retribution, that hit my kindle the other day, so I couldn’t wait to delve in.
The blurb had me easily hooked, but what lay between the pages was deliciously intentionally dark.
I do find that I can engage more with a story if the setting is a place of character, whether it was intentional or not Amanda James can give you this with her knowledge and the surroundings of Cornwall.
Not only is The Cornish Retribution a well paced read that is suspenseful and tension fuelled from the start, the characters of Sam, Penny and Dan were so fleshed out that I felt that I could have been with them at the reunion.
This is an edgy, enticing read with the characters agendas unfolding slowly, but with the drama it is a page turning hook that has spades of atmosphere and twists. You don’t have to like these characters actions to be following the story, but this delicious dark noir novel will keep you reading just one more chapter.
High praise to Amanda James for her writing skills in character development and sense of place, and chilling edgy read.
The blurb had me easily hooked, but what lay between the pages was deliciously intentionally dark.
I do find that I can engage more with a story if the setting is a place of character, whether it was intentional or not Amanda James can give you this with her knowledge and the surroundings of Cornwall.
Not only is The Cornish Retribution a well paced read that is suspenseful and tension fuelled from the start, the characters of Sam, Penny and Dan were so fleshed out that I felt that I could have been with them at the reunion.
This is an edgy, enticing read with the characters agendas unfolding slowly, but with the drama it is a page turning hook that has spades of atmosphere and twists. You don’t have to like these characters actions to be following the story, but this delicious dark noir novel will keep you reading just one more chapter.
High praise to Amanda James for her writing skills in character development and sense of place, and chilling edgy read.
October 4, 2018
When I read The Calico Cat by Amanda James earlier this year and absolutely loved it! So when the chance of reading The Cornish Retribution for an upcoming blog tour came up, I grabbed it. Though The Calico Cat was a fun chick-lit, I knew I had to read Amanda’s suspense novels and I’m glad I started it with The Cornish Retribution.
The book is subtle. It’s not the edge-of-your-seat book. But, oh it’s so creepy and spine-chilling. A couple of chapters in, our protagonist, Sam knows that she is in trouble but what she doesn’t know is that she’s going to be in a far deadly trouble. Throughout the book, I wanted to scream at her and tell her to open her eyes – to see that she’s at the edge of the cliff. This book made me worry about her so much. It feels so strange that sometimes people be so blind to situations even when they have past experiences which can help them out. This book made me realise how aware I should be of what happening in my life. This book is an atmospheric read. What I mean by that is you must lounge back and dive into this book because that is exactly how this book makes you feel. The writing is like painting – bringing the lovely Cornish waters come to life through words while, simultaneously, presenting the drastic opposite nature of the protagonist’s heart and mind. Amanda’s writing is what I fell in love with, and it continues in this book too. The plot, too, kept me engaged till the end, making me complete the book in one day. Speaking of the end, this book gave me the most satisfying of ends in this genre – every character got what they deserved and were served well. Though I felt a tiny bit sense of surprise missing, the book was an enjoyable read.
For more reviews please visit www.rubinareads.com
The book is subtle. It’s not the edge-of-your-seat book. But, oh it’s so creepy and spine-chilling. A couple of chapters in, our protagonist, Sam knows that she is in trouble but what she doesn’t know is that she’s going to be in a far deadly trouble. Throughout the book, I wanted to scream at her and tell her to open her eyes – to see that she’s at the edge of the cliff. This book made me worry about her so much. It feels so strange that sometimes people be so blind to situations even when they have past experiences which can help them out. This book made me realise how aware I should be of what happening in my life. This book is an atmospheric read. What I mean by that is you must lounge back and dive into this book because that is exactly how this book makes you feel. The writing is like painting – bringing the lovely Cornish waters come to life through words while, simultaneously, presenting the drastic opposite nature of the protagonist’s heart and mind. Amanda’s writing is what I fell in love with, and it continues in this book too. The plot, too, kept me engaged till the end, making me complete the book in one day. Speaking of the end, this book gave me the most satisfying of ends in this genre – every character got what they deserved and were served well. Though I felt a tiny bit sense of surprise missing, the book was an enjoyable read.
For more reviews please visit www.rubinareads.com
October 2, 2018
Another brilliant story !
Once again Amanda James had me hooked from the first chapter and by the end I didn’t want to let go. I immediately liked Sam, the main character and as the tale progressed and I realised she was in jeopardy I wished I could ring her on the phone and have a word in her ear. As with all of Amanda’s books the settings are sublime and I can picture every scene as she describes them, so along with her characterisations and a fast paced plot, this book was my perfect read.
Amanda is a very talented writer who always tells a wonderful tale then wraps it up nicely at then end. If you are looking for a great story with dark undertones and believable characters, I can thoroughly recommend this book.
Once again Amanda James had me hooked from the first chapter and by the end I didn’t want to let go. I immediately liked Sam, the main character and as the tale progressed and I realised she was in jeopardy I wished I could ring her on the phone and have a word in her ear. As with all of Amanda’s books the settings are sublime and I can picture every scene as she describes them, so along with her characterisations and a fast paced plot, this book was my perfect read.
Amanda is a very talented writer who always tells a wonderful tale then wraps it up nicely at then end. If you are looking for a great story with dark undertones and believable characters, I can thoroughly recommend this book.
October 5, 2018
Wow what a book. I was hooked from the first page. The Cornish Retribution is an atmospheric and addictive read. I did want to shake Sam sometimes over some of the decisions she made - that in itself for me makes it one of the best books I've read this year. There's loads of books I've loved don't get me wrong, but there's not been that many that I've been so invested in the characters that I've wanted to shake them! This is the first book I've read by Amanda James - it's not going to be the last.
Thanks to the publishers for my free copy in return for an honest review.
Thanks to the publishers for my free copy in return for an honest review.
September 18, 2019
A Gripping drama and a half
In a week I've read Three ,of Amanda's books ,one after the other , enjoying them all in there different way's this fourth story was quite different , such a well thought out plan, for our heroine ,after a slower start for me ,plus I didn't like ,or warm to any of the charters , won't spoil this unfolding drama, but 100% recommend you. read it for yourselves,
In a week I've read Three ,of Amanda's books ,one after the other , enjoying them all in there different way's this fourth story was quite different , such a well thought out plan, for our heroine ,after a slower start for me ,plus I didn't like ,or warm to any of the charters , won't spoil this unfolding drama, but 100% recommend you. read it for yourselves,
September 15, 2018
I loved this, I usually stick to police procedurals but this was brilliant. Love the ending, it was just somehow right and deserved. But, I did find myself getting annoyed with main character Sam character quite often, but who knows how we would react in that situation. Well written, it certainly kept me gripped, work got in the way so it took 3 days to read but well worth it.
October 14, 2018
Sam is still mourning the loss of her husband Adam but is encouraged to go to a high school reunion where she bumps into her ex-boyfriend and her ex-best friend. Exes as they cheated on her. What follows is Dan’s infatuation with her leading to more and more bizarre consequences with us never quite sure what the outcome will be.
A pleasant read
A pleasant read
October 30, 2018
The descriptions are so vivid that I was on the beach with the characters and in their houses. The ending was unexpected and the author did not make the mistake of following a cliche. When I thought something was going to happen it didn't. When I thought something wasn't going to happen it did.
February 11, 2019
This was a pleasant read but progressed slowly and was somewhat predictable. There was just something missing for me, maybe the surprise element.
This novel does get good reviews and this is just my opinion so please make up your own mind.
This novel does get good reviews and this is just my opinion so please make up your own mind.
July 7, 2020
I had read a Cornish Connection and this was totally different. Steady build up but then got interesting with a lots of twists and turns and family dilemnas. Interesting characters. Sam is very human and identifiable. Enjoyed this book very much.
August 1, 2020
Don`t miss it
What a brilliant story. Its so well written with all the twists and turns .The ending came as a grest surprise . I couldn`t put it down . Its now 5 mins to midnight I just had to see how it ended
What a brilliant story. Its so well written with all the twists and turns .The ending came as a grest surprise . I couldn`t put it down . Its now 5 mins to midnight I just had to see how it ended
October 8, 2018
So so story, skipped through pages of it just to get to the end. Didn't believe in the characters. Glad I only paid 99p for it.
October 10, 2018
Amazing unexpected ending
October 15, 2018
Something is not right!
A good read it starts very predictable and you can see what is going to happen to Penny , then everything changes ,the end is epic definitely give it a read.
A good read it starts very predictable and you can see what is going to happen to Penny , then everything changes ,the end is epic definitely give it a read.
November 7, 2018
Well worth it!
This book was a delight to read. Gripping in many ways. Loved the characters, made real, descriptive, intriguing and left wanting more.
This book was a delight to read. Gripping in many ways. Loved the characters, made real, descriptive, intriguing and left wanting more.
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