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You’re Always With Me
Sometimes you have to kill the one you love
Treating a woman for post-natal depression, therapist Mel Porter discovers a shocking truth about herself. As she battles to separate truth from lies, she must confront the most dreadful choice a wife can ever make. Believe that her husband is a killer. Or that she is.
The woman claims to have murdered her own child. The confession turns out to be false but it starts a chain of events that leads to horrifying consequences for Mel. As each brick in the wall she has built around herself crumbles and falls away, a stark truth is revealed. Is she even the woman she thinks she is?
When an ambitious detective with secrets of her own arrests Mel on a charge of murder, her world descends into chaos. Memories she thought she could trust turn out to be unreliable. Her very sanity is questioned. And Jonathan asks for a divorce.
In court, facing a hostile lawyer’s harrowing questioning, Mel’s faith in herself reaches breaking point. Then the jury returns with its verdict and delivers a shocking conclusion to the trial.
How much of her perfect life can Mel still believe in? And how much is total fantasy? The answer could be the difference between life and death.
Treating a woman for post-natal depression, therapist Mel Porter discovers a shocking truth about herself. As she battles to separate truth from lies, she must confront the most dreadful choice a wife can ever make. Believe that her husband is a killer. Or that she is.
The woman claims to have murdered her own child. The confession turns out to be false but it starts a chain of events that leads to horrifying consequences for Mel. As each brick in the wall she has built around herself crumbles and falls away, a stark truth is revealed. Is she even the woman she thinks she is?
When an ambitious detective with secrets of her own arrests Mel on a charge of murder, her world descends into chaos. Memories she thought she could trust turn out to be unreliable. Her very sanity is questioned. And Jonathan asks for a divorce.
In court, facing a hostile lawyer’s harrowing questioning, Mel’s faith in herself reaches breaking point. Then the jury returns with its verdict and delivers a shocking conclusion to the trial.
How much of her perfect life can Mel still believe in? And how much is total fantasy? The answer could be the difference between life and death.
- GenresThriller
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2022
131 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Andy Maslen
73 books506 followersMILLION COPY BESTSELLER SHORTLISTED FOR KINDLE STORYTELLER AWARD
Andy Maslen writes thrillers across a number of genres: police procedurals, vigilante, psychological, suspense and horror. He spent 30 years in business before turning to writing full time.
Readers praise Andy's novels for their relatable characters, realistic dialogue, sense of place and kinetic action sequences, and for his meticulous research into police procedure around the world.
He is the creator of best-selling series featuring Kat Ballantyne, Gabriel Wolfe, Stella Cole and Inspector Ford, plus standalone novels and short stories.
Andy was born in Nottingham, England. After leaving university with a degree in psychology, he worked in business for thirty years as a copywriter. In his spare time, he plays the guitar. He lives in Wiltshire.
Andy Maslen writes thrillers across a number of genres: police procedurals, vigilante, psychological, suspense and horror. He spent 30 years in business before turning to writing full time.
Readers praise Andy's novels for their relatable characters, realistic dialogue, sense of place and kinetic action sequences, and for his meticulous research into police procedure around the world.
He is the creator of best-selling series featuring Kat Ballantyne, Gabriel Wolfe, Stella Cole and Inspector Ford, plus standalone novels and short stories.
Andy was born in Nottingham, England. After leaving university with a degree in psychology, he worked in business for thirty years as a copywriter. In his spare time, he plays the guitar. He lives in Wiltshire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 18, 2022
What if everything you believe about yourself is a lie. You are doing a job you have trained for, helping others through difficult times...Or...Are you...This psychological thriller twists you every which way as we follow therapist Mel Porter as she treats a woman for post-natal depression. In chilling detail we hear all about the child she claims to have murdered, turning your stomach at some points and causing goosebumps down your arms at others. As Mel tries to understand every act of this woman, she develops problems of her own. What is going on, her memories are mixed up, is Her husband a killer?! Then a detective arrests Mel, for Murder!! WHAT?!! This author has an excellent way of writing that makes every character feel like a personal friend. So that each act, feeling, or surprise they encounter is something you go through with them! I could not put this book down, and couldn't believe the shocking surprises that continued right until the end!!
The author hits his first psychological thriller OUT OF THE PARK!!
The author hits his first psychological thriller OUT OF THE PARK!!
March 14, 2022
Thanks to Random Things Tours for my ebook and spot on the blog tour!
Absolutely superb.
This was a new author to me, but after this cracker of a read, I'm hunting down Maslen's previous books.
It follows Mel, a woman who goes to trial for the murder of her baby boy Harry. The trial section is right up my street as I love me a legal thriller and this was excellently done! But even after the 'conclusion', the book keeps giving twists and turns to keep us reading. A truly compulsive read.
Some scenes literally made my heart race and stop breathing! You'll know the scene if you've read it!
The characters of Mel and Ffion were fantastic and I loved them both. Please tell me there's another Ffion book in the pipeline, Andy!
A truly fantastic thriller. Fans of legal thrillers will adore this one. Highly recommend.
Absolutely superb.
This was a new author to me, but after this cracker of a read, I'm hunting down Maslen's previous books.
It follows Mel, a woman who goes to trial for the murder of her baby boy Harry. The trial section is right up my street as I love me a legal thriller and this was excellently done! But even after the 'conclusion', the book keeps giving twists and turns to keep us reading. A truly compulsive read.
Some scenes literally made my heart race and stop breathing! You'll know the scene if you've read it!
The characters of Mel and Ffion were fantastic and I loved them both. Please tell me there's another Ffion book in the pipeline, Andy!
A truly fantastic thriller. Fans of legal thrillers will adore this one. Highly recommend.
April 1, 2022
Mel has been sectioned - placed in a mental hospital. With the help of her dr and a very controversial use of psychotropic drugs, Mel "awakens". And her trial begins.
Upon release of the hospital, Mel is arrested for the death of her son, Harry. After months of interrupted sleep combined with postpartum depression, isolation, just all of it - Mel finds herself in the tub; Harry dead and her husband, Jonathan, calling the police.
This multinarrator plot moves fast, drastically exposing Mel as a troubled mother; Jonathan as the victim and an obsessed detective.
Great writing, cast of characters. Definitely interested in other books by this author.
Upon release of the hospital, Mel is arrested for the death of her son, Harry. After months of interrupted sleep combined with postpartum depression, isolation, just all of it - Mel finds herself in the tub; Harry dead and her husband, Jonathan, calling the police.
This multinarrator plot moves fast, drastically exposing Mel as a troubled mother; Jonathan as the victim and an obsessed detective.
Great writing, cast of characters. Definitely interested in other books by this author.
February 21, 2022
Absolutely brilliant!
Twisty, suspenseful, and impossible to put down. More like this, please.
Twisty, suspenseful, and impossible to put down. More like this, please.
May 12, 2022
Mel stands accused of killing her baby. Her husband testifies that he saw her just as she killed him. But when more evidence comes to light, things don't start to add up with the husband's story. As the officer in charge Ffion begins to delve deeper into the married couple, she begins to realise nothing is quite as it seems...
Fans of behind closed doors, this one is for you! I adored behind closed doors, and I loved this one too.
You know I don't like anything with children being hurt, but this author doesn't delve into it to the point of graphic, so I could read it and I am so glad I did! This is a two sides of the story kinda book, and I really grew to like the officer in charge as she tried to find out the truth. The twists are shocking, and kept me on my toes the full book!
If you haven't read this one already, go grab it now!! You won't regret it!
Fans of behind closed doors, this one is for you! I adored behind closed doors, and I loved this one too.
You know I don't like anything with children being hurt, but this author doesn't delve into it to the point of graphic, so I could read it and I am so glad I did! This is a two sides of the story kinda book, and I really grew to like the officer in charge as she tried to find out the truth. The twists are shocking, and kept me on my toes the full book!
If you haven't read this one already, go grab it now!! You won't regret it!
March 31, 2022
This is Andy Maslen's first psychological/legal thriller. I have read his other books so had no doubt I wanted to read this one. It is totally different from anything he has written, but his style of writing grabbed me within the first chapter or two. To the point I thought this was such an addictive read.
We follow Mel and her work as a therapist, attempting to help a woman who thinks she killed her baby. As the story develops we discover revelations and twists galore.
Andy Maslen has written a top notch psychological/legal thriller that keeps the reader totally engaged. The characters are so well written that you feel like they could be friends. This makes every single event that happens feel almost personal to yourself. Such a great book!
The legal side to the story is so good. A harrowing court trial that casts doubt on Mel's sanity and to add to the pressure, Jonathan, her husband asks for a divorce. The officer that is in charge of the case begins to cast doubt on the evidence and the revelations rock the case from it's core.
Such an expertly crafted story with twists that never end and red herrings that keep the suspense going. The end of the trial had my jaw on the floor right there. Just as I thought this was it, I was wrong! Andy Maslen had even more in store!
I don't often say how many stars in my reviews but today I will say that this is a true, solid 5 star book. I hope Andy Maslen has another one on the way.
We follow Mel and her work as a therapist, attempting to help a woman who thinks she killed her baby. As the story develops we discover revelations and twists galore.
Andy Maslen has written a top notch psychological/legal thriller that keeps the reader totally engaged. The characters are so well written that you feel like they could be friends. This makes every single event that happens feel almost personal to yourself. Such a great book!
The legal side to the story is so good. A harrowing court trial that casts doubt on Mel's sanity and to add to the pressure, Jonathan, her husband asks for a divorce. The officer that is in charge of the case begins to cast doubt on the evidence and the revelations rock the case from it's core.
Such an expertly crafted story with twists that never end and red herrings that keep the suspense going. The end of the trial had my jaw on the floor right there. Just as I thought this was it, I was wrong! Andy Maslen had even more in store!
I don't often say how many stars in my reviews but today I will say that this is a true, solid 5 star book. I hope Andy Maslen has another one on the way.
April 6, 2022
This book is a cracker of a read that you won’t want to put down until you have reached the very last page. Andy Maslen surprised me with this one, it was nothing like Crooked Shadow which I read in June last year. This book had me racing to the finish line. This legal thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat while the author looks at the sanity of a mother dealing with post-natal depression.
This was my second Andy Maslen book and I found myself surprised. This one was very different from Crooked Shadow which I read in June last year. This book had me glued to the pages as I raced to finish it. I could not get enough. I loved the characters and the legal drama the author included made this a book with a little bit of everything. The story keeps you intrigued and is full of twists, making this fabulous read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Mel is treating a woman, Em, with post-natal depression. Em claims that she killed her baby, but she suffers from delusions and Mel does not want to encourage her fantasies. Trying to show Em the truth, Mel is forced to face a few unsettling truths about her own life. When an ambitious Detective – Ffion – arrest Mel for murder, she is left questioning her sanity.
A shocking verdict, after a harrowing trial leaves Mel questioning herself, and Jonathan her husband who is asking for a divorce. What is true and what is fantasy? Can Mel tell the difference?
This book had me reading late into the night. I loved the various aspects of this book; it provided a bit of everything. You will find psychotherapy, a police investigation and a legal drama and when you think you have it all figured out, the author adds a twist that will keep you reading way past the delivery of the verdict.
The characters are brilliant in this one. I loved the addition of Dr Flick Barber. She added a colourful flair with her magic mushroom research. The author did well adding this lighter side to the story. Mel simply broke my heart. This poor woman was struggling not only with mental illness but with the guilt of killing her child. Ffion, when introduced, annoyed me. I know she had a job to do, but she allowed herself to reach a conclusion based on her past. She did redeem herself though, allowing me to change my opinion of her.
There is no doubt that this book breezed its way onto my loved list for 2022. I could not drag myself away. You’re Always With Me is a gripping, entertaining read with a little bit of everything that makes for a brilliant thriller. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, it is a five-star read. Do not miss out, add this one to your TBR. If you enjoyed a book that will keep you guessing, you won’t go wrong with this one.
https://featzreviews.com
This was my second Andy Maslen book and I found myself surprised. This one was very different from Crooked Shadow which I read in June last year. This book had me glued to the pages as I raced to finish it. I could not get enough. I loved the characters and the legal drama the author included made this a book with a little bit of everything. The story keeps you intrigued and is full of twists, making this fabulous read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Mel is treating a woman, Em, with post-natal depression. Em claims that she killed her baby, but she suffers from delusions and Mel does not want to encourage her fantasies. Trying to show Em the truth, Mel is forced to face a few unsettling truths about her own life. When an ambitious Detective – Ffion – arrest Mel for murder, she is left questioning her sanity.
A shocking verdict, after a harrowing trial leaves Mel questioning herself, and Jonathan her husband who is asking for a divorce. What is true and what is fantasy? Can Mel tell the difference?
This book had me reading late into the night. I loved the various aspects of this book; it provided a bit of everything. You will find psychotherapy, a police investigation and a legal drama and when you think you have it all figured out, the author adds a twist that will keep you reading way past the delivery of the verdict.
The characters are brilliant in this one. I loved the addition of Dr Flick Barber. She added a colourful flair with her magic mushroom research. The author did well adding this lighter side to the story. Mel simply broke my heart. This poor woman was struggling not only with mental illness but with the guilt of killing her child. Ffion, when introduced, annoyed me. I know she had a job to do, but she allowed herself to reach a conclusion based on her past. She did redeem herself though, allowing me to change my opinion of her.
There is no doubt that this book breezed its way onto my loved list for 2022. I could not drag myself away. You’re Always With Me is a gripping, entertaining read with a little bit of everything that makes for a brilliant thriller. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, it is a five-star read. Do not miss out, add this one to your TBR. If you enjoyed a book that will keep you guessing, you won’t go wrong with this one.
https://featzreviews.com
March 26, 2022
OMG! Having read a number of Andy Maslens books I was really looking forward to this one. However this was even better than I could have imagined! So good in fact I read it in a day. A brilliant psychological legal thriller and one of my favourite reads of recent. Some great characters and some real on the edge of the seat stuff kept me turning the pages long after ‘lights out’.
Briefly, the story starts with Mel Porter seemingly treating a woman for post natal depression but she then discovers that it is she who is confined to a mentally secure location following the death of her baby son Harry. After 2 years she is considered well enough for release but is immediately arrested and charged with the murder of Harry. What follows is a a harrowing court trial when much of what she believed is put in doubt; her very sanity is questioned and then her husband Jonathan asks for a divorce. However, the police detective running the case starts to have concerns about the evidence presented and her investigations have uncover shocking revelations.
This really is a very cleverly written psychological thriller with no end of twists. A shocking revelation at the end of the trial had me gasping. But there was still more to come. Andy Maslen is at the top of his game on this one and definitely a worthy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, the story starts with Mel Porter seemingly treating a woman for post natal depression but she then discovers that it is she who is confined to a mentally secure location following the death of her baby son Harry. After 2 years she is considered well enough for release but is immediately arrested and charged with the murder of Harry. What follows is a a harrowing court trial when much of what she believed is put in doubt; her very sanity is questioned and then her husband Jonathan asks for a divorce. However, the police detective running the case starts to have concerns about the evidence presented and her investigations have uncover shocking revelations.
This really is a very cleverly written psychological thriller with no end of twists. A shocking revelation at the end of the trial had me gasping. But there was still more to come. Andy Maslen is at the top of his game on this one and definitely a worthy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 13, 2022
You’re Always With Me by Andy Maslen is his first psychological thriller and it is an excellent chilling read. At times I had the hairs on the back of my neck standing up and chills down my spine.
It seemed at times very realistic and believable, particularly when the husband spoke about his dead son, Harry. As a character he was truly, madly, deeply believable as the main protagonist.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Highly recommended.
It seemed at times very realistic and believable, particularly when the husband spoke about his dead son, Harry. As a character he was truly, madly, deeply believable as the main protagonist.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Highly recommended.
March 31, 2022
I'm kinda gutted I read this when my mind wasn't fully with it, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment one bit.
It follows the story of Mel and her work as a therapist trying to get the bottom of the story of the woman who thinks she killed her baby, but did she. According the records there never was a child
Within the first few chapters there is a shocking revelation. At this point you know you're in for a cracker of a read, and it turned out to be exactly that. It was quite the rollercoaster, involving a big legal drama too. I can't talk too much about it without spoiling it, but there are shocking revelations and big twists throughout.
It was an interesting insight into the trauma of childbirth and the issue of post natal depression that's still not spoken about enough. It also explores the effect having a child has on a relationship.
This is the first of Andys books I've read, and absolutely won't be the last. If they are all anything like this I will devour them in a day with no problems.
It follows the story of Mel and her work as a therapist trying to get the bottom of the story of the woman who thinks she killed her baby, but did she. According the records there never was a child
Within the first few chapters there is a shocking revelation. At this point you know you're in for a cracker of a read, and it turned out to be exactly that. It was quite the rollercoaster, involving a big legal drama too. I can't talk too much about it without spoiling it, but there are shocking revelations and big twists throughout.
It was an interesting insight into the trauma of childbirth and the issue of post natal depression that's still not spoken about enough. It also explores the effect having a child has on a relationship.
This is the first of Andys books I've read, and absolutely won't be the last. If they are all anything like this I will devour them in a day with no problems.
March 28, 2022
A Psychological Thriller You Simply Will Not Be Able To Put Down! Andy Maslen Does it Again
Author Andy Maslen newest “thriller” is, as the author admits, “new ground” for him as he has never before written a “psychological thriller”. In my opinion after reading it he scored a “home run”. It is what a “psychological thriller” is supposed to be, both thrilling, and “mind-gaming”, and it holds true from its beginning through to its end.
As I do not write “spoilers” and that sometimes makes it a bit difficult to compose a review without giving “TMI” to a prospective reader. Suffice it to say if you’ve read the author’s “blurb”, or seen the ads for this book and they have interested you, then, by all means, grab a copy and read it. I can almost guarantee you will find it to be one of the best books you’ve read so far this year.
I Highly RECOMMEND This book.
Thank you for reading my review. Hopefully it was of some assistance.
Author Andy Maslen newest “thriller” is, as the author admits, “new ground” for him as he has never before written a “psychological thriller”. In my opinion after reading it he scored a “home run”. It is what a “psychological thriller” is supposed to be, both thrilling, and “mind-gaming”, and it holds true from its beginning through to its end.
As I do not write “spoilers” and that sometimes makes it a bit difficult to compose a review without giving “TMI” to a prospective reader. Suffice it to say if you’ve read the author’s “blurb”, or seen the ads for this book and they have interested you, then, by all means, grab a copy and read it. I can almost guarantee you will find it to be one of the best books you’ve read so far this year.
I Highly RECOMMEND This book.
Thank you for reading my review. Hopefully it was of some assistance.
Read
March 28, 2022When I first started reading this book, I found it hard to get into as it was written in a different style from the Andy Maslen books I had got used to reading, I persevered and I am so glad I did! This is an excellent book with so many unexpected twists going on that it is probably one of the best books of this genre I have read.
Starting at the beginning in the mental hospital and running through the entire life of the crime, the court scenes are so easy to visualise and very well written, who did kill Harry? Is Mel’s life everything she thinks it is?
This is well worth reading and a total different style of story. It would be hard to write a sequel as this is a complete story all in one book.
Thank you and well done Andy!
Starting at the beginning in the mental hospital and running through the entire life of the crime, the court scenes are so easy to visualise and very well written, who did kill Harry? Is Mel’s life everything she thinks it is?
This is well worth reading and a total different style of story. It would be hard to write a sequel as this is a complete story all in one book.
Thank you and well done Andy!
March 31, 2022
Brilliant
Brilliant read. Another great book from Andy Maslen. I could not put it down. A gripping storyline. Well done Andy
Brilliant read. Another great book from Andy Maslen. I could not put it down. A gripping storyline. Well done Andy
March 28, 2022
I enjoy Andy books this one was totally different from the Gabriel Wolfe books. A psychological thriller even from the beginning it was a thrilling read. A fantastic read that keeps you interested from start to finish lets hope there are mote of these type books to come.
Denise
Denise
March 28, 2022
Andy Maslen has indexation produced a psychological thriller beyond measure! Who is Mel? Is she who she thinks she is? As each chapter unfolds we dig deeper and deeper into the life of who?
A truly unique, superb storyline. A Must read.
A truly unique, superb storyline. A Must read.
March 11, 2022
What you think you know of the story from the first page is not the true story. Melanie Walker has been in a hospital for nearly three years receiving mental health treatment after her husband, Jonathan claims she drowned their 6 month old son Harry. But after Mel goes to trial after her doctor says she’s cured, the police woman who arrested her now has her doubts after what was testified to in court and what really happened. As you read to the end, nothing you think you know is true to the surprising ending.
March 6, 2022
Wow! One of his best books although I like them all! Heart pounding and so hard to stop reading because you have to know if she is ok. Like a roller coaster ride!!
March 28, 2022
WOW! A thriller whodunnit which will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end ! A baby boy is murdered, the mother is convicted of his death. But something doesn’t seem right. Could it have been someone else ? One of the best psychological thrillers I’ve ever read. This is definitely a must read !
February 18, 2022
Brilliant book - highly recommended
December 29, 2022
This is my honest unbiased review of a arc book my thanks to the Author.
I have always enjoyed Andy's books, to say I liked this one is a understatement. This psychological thriller was absolutely fantastic. I was captured from the very start, just couldn't put it down. So beautifully and cleverly written, full of twists, turns, shocking revelations. Most of the time I was sat on the edge of my seat, going through alsorts of emotions and my brain working overtime.
Absolutely loved this from beginning to end
I have always enjoyed Andy's books, to say I liked this one is a understatement. This psychological thriller was absolutely fantastic. I was captured from the very start, just couldn't put it down. So beautifully and cleverly written, full of twists, turns, shocking revelations. Most of the time I was sat on the edge of my seat, going through alsorts of emotions and my brain working overtime.
Absolutely loved this from beginning to end
March 19, 2022
A psychological thriller full of suspense, twist and turns kept me reading late into the night, a well written and enjoyable book which I would recommend very highly, one of the best books I have read in awhile buy and enjoy
February 9, 2022
WOW what a fantastic story from start to finish. I was emotional at times, angry at times, and happy at times. I couldn't put it down, a real page turner.
April 7, 2022
A nail-biter of a read, this story’s emotional wallop, sparked from the very first (of many) explosive twists, is destined to keep the reader entirely on edge, right up to the intense and ultimately satisfying finale.
Written in a taut, spare and vivid style, the author captures a sense of immediacy that never lets up - putting the reader squarely in the middle of a plot that is guaranteed to make your spine tingle.
“She felt he was sizing her up. Like a snake might look at something small and furry. She felt the short hairs on the back of her neck erect. Didn’t like it.”
Told in the voices of three main characters, two of which share their thoughts in first person intimacy, the story’s pace is brisk and fiendishly luring - crackling with the promise of unshared secrets, as certain to horrify as they will explain.
- Melanie, our main protagonist, writing in first person POV, reveals vulnerabilities and insecurities that render her entirely relatable - if only at an emotional arm’s length, (perhaps for our own protection?).
- DC Ffion Parry, a no-nonsense cop, narrator and observer, is also a mother and a wife, roles which may inform her compassionate drive to see justice done.
-Jonathon Walker, husband to Melanie, a merchant banker, is a sartorially elegant man whose extravagant lifestyle, emotionless delivery and articulated experiences may or may not converge with reality.
With equal parts both menacing and gripping, packed tightly with subject matter and a plot that will chill and disturb, this book was hard to put down, and in many ways, hard to forget.
A great big thank you to the author and the publisher for an ARC of this story. All thoughts presented are my own.
My stop today on the @randomthingstours #blogtour for #YoureAlwaysWithMe by @andy_maslen
Written in a taut, spare and vivid style, the author captures a sense of immediacy that never lets up - putting the reader squarely in the middle of a plot that is guaranteed to make your spine tingle.
“She felt he was sizing her up. Like a snake might look at something small and furry. She felt the short hairs on the back of her neck erect. Didn’t like it.”
Told in the voices of three main characters, two of which share their thoughts in first person intimacy, the story’s pace is brisk and fiendishly luring - crackling with the promise of unshared secrets, as certain to horrify as they will explain.
- Melanie, our main protagonist, writing in first person POV, reveals vulnerabilities and insecurities that render her entirely relatable - if only at an emotional arm’s length, (perhaps for our own protection?).
- DC Ffion Parry, a no-nonsense cop, narrator and observer, is also a mother and a wife, roles which may inform her compassionate drive to see justice done.
-Jonathon Walker, husband to Melanie, a merchant banker, is a sartorially elegant man whose extravagant lifestyle, emotionless delivery and articulated experiences may or may not converge with reality.
With equal parts both menacing and gripping, packed tightly with subject matter and a plot that will chill and disturb, this book was hard to put down, and in many ways, hard to forget.
A great big thank you to the author and the publisher for an ARC of this story. All thoughts presented are my own.
My stop today on the @randomthingstours #blogtour for #YoureAlwaysWithMe by @andy_maslen
April 6, 2022
A huge thankyou to the author and Random Things Tours for the chance to read this book.
I was worried about being able to post on time for the book tour because I've been struggling to read while being poorly, but this book is so fast paced I finished it in good time.
Mel is treating a patient for severe post natal depression, and during her time with this patient she discovers a truth about herself that shocks her to the core.
The woman who she is currently treating confesses to killing her own baby in the midst of PND but Mel knows that this is all a fantasy the patient has conjured up herself. Yet despite this, the confession snowballs a series of event that lead Mel to discover the truth about herself, her husband, a truth that leaves her questioning her own sanity and her marriage.
I won't say much because of spoilers except Jonathon was written well to the point I began to loathe him, the idea of men like him. His attitude when you read his POV and see the way he views the world and the people around him.
At first I struggled with Ffion's character initially but quickly warmed to her.
The book in general was a page turner, once I started it was easy to find myself halfway through then finished the day after. I enjoyed Mel's storyline, but will say for content warnings it does go into detail about the death of a 6 month old baby.
It wasn't what i expected to be in the beginning but I really enjoyed the story and would love to read more by this author one day!
I was worried about being able to post on time for the book tour because I've been struggling to read while being poorly, but this book is so fast paced I finished it in good time.
Mel is treating a patient for severe post natal depression, and during her time with this patient she discovers a truth about herself that shocks her to the core.
The woman who she is currently treating confesses to killing her own baby in the midst of PND but Mel knows that this is all a fantasy the patient has conjured up herself. Yet despite this, the confession snowballs a series of event that lead Mel to discover the truth about herself, her husband, a truth that leaves her questioning her own sanity and her marriage.
I won't say much because of spoilers except Jonathon was written well to the point I began to loathe him, the idea of men like him. His attitude when you read his POV and see the way he views the world and the people around him.
At first I struggled with Ffion's character initially but quickly warmed to her.
The book in general was a page turner, once I started it was easy to find myself halfway through then finished the day after. I enjoyed Mel's storyline, but will say for content warnings it does go into detail about the death of a 6 month old baby.
It wasn't what i expected to be in the beginning but I really enjoyed the story and would love to read more by this author one day!
March 31, 2022
📖BOOK REVIEW & TOUR STOP📖
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m excited for my stop on the #booktour for You’re Always With Me by Andy Maslen. Thank you Random Things Tours for my book copy!
I’m fascinated by psychiatric issues, so this one sounded like a great read for me, and I wasn’t disappointed.
This is my first book by the author and it’s a doozy! A psychological thriller with some unique twists. The writing and pacing were excellent.
The author’s writing roused intense feelings of sympathy for Mel. A mother convicted of murdering her baby, and committed to a mental hospital. This surprised me. When I hear about these events in real life, I feel only anger. I know post-natal depression exists. That doesn’t make it easier to understand how a mother could be driven to such brutal and severe actions. Mel’s circumstances are only a small part of this twist-filled suspense. It’s a must-read!
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced reading copy. All opinions are my own.
#yourealwayswithme #andymaslen #booktour #booktourhost #psychologicalthriller #mentalhealthissues #randomthingstours #twistedsuspense #randomthingstours #tytonpress
🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’m excited for my stop on the #booktour for You’re Always With Me by Andy Maslen. Thank you Random Things Tours for my book copy!
I’m fascinated by psychiatric issues, so this one sounded like a great read for me, and I wasn’t disappointed.
This is my first book by the author and it’s a doozy! A psychological thriller with some unique twists. The writing and pacing were excellent.
The author’s writing roused intense feelings of sympathy for Mel. A mother convicted of murdering her baby, and committed to a mental hospital. This surprised me. When I hear about these events in real life, I feel only anger. I know post-natal depression exists. That doesn’t make it easier to understand how a mother could be driven to such brutal and severe actions. Mel’s circumstances are only a small part of this twist-filled suspense. It’s a must-read!
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced reading copy. All opinions are my own.
#yourealwayswithme #andymaslen #booktour #booktourhost #psychologicalthriller #mentalhealthissues #randomthingstours #twistedsuspense #randomthingstours #tytonpress
September 4, 2022
This book was an Amazon freebie that I decided to try out and didn't regret (NO SPOILERS AHEAD)
Initially I was intrigued by this book purely on the short synopsis that explained how it followed a therapist in psychiatric setting with an interesting patient- I did NOT expect the whirlwind that this book took me on!
The descriptions of people, places, feelings etc, are all very graphic and easy to imagine. The dialogue is so interesting, accurate to certain situations (like police talk) and well written.
The whole story and the rollercoaster it takes you on is fantastic and not expected, as I said!
Whilst it is one of those books that I picked up every night and struggled to put down so I could sleep- I haven't given it 5/5 stars just because of how quick the start and end was. I wish that we had spent more time in that first and last situation. Otherwise absolutely fantastic book and I highly recommend it!
Initially I was intrigued by this book purely on the short synopsis that explained how it followed a therapist in psychiatric setting with an interesting patient- I did NOT expect the whirlwind that this book took me on!
The descriptions of people, places, feelings etc, are all very graphic and easy to imagine. The dialogue is so interesting, accurate to certain situations (like police talk) and well written.
The whole story and the rollercoaster it takes you on is fantastic and not expected, as I said!
Whilst it is one of those books that I picked up every night and struggled to put down so I could sleep- I haven't given it 5/5 stars just because of how quick the start and end was. I wish that we had spent more time in that first and last situation. Otherwise absolutely fantastic book and I highly recommend it!
October 19, 2025
Very clever first part that had me convinced that Mel and Em were different people. it started to lose creditability with the miracle cure, that wasn't as it turned out licensed. I don't think the police would have been immediately as aggressive and given how Ffion changed after the trial it would have been more in character to have doubts far earlier. The portrial of Jonathan was thew spoiler. far to over the top, given his actions detailed in the book, there was no way he would have avoided trouble before. He rapidly got out of control but surely he would have been more calculating and could easily have planned to murder his wife while passing it off as suicide. An enjoyable read if youy ignore reality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2022
It's almost 4 a.m., and I just finished this book, and I'm so impressed that I had to write a review right away.
Wow. It's fantastic, incredible.
I'm at a loss for words to describe this book.
I was hooked from the first chapter.
The author did an excellent job with the characters.
The first of many twists really messed with my head, and I loved it!
This book had it all: multiple POVs, an untrustworthy narrator, a murder trial, a classic thriller race against time, and everything else a stunning physiological thriller requires.
I was blown away by the author's obvious talent and dedication to this book, and it has made me want to read more of their work.
Wow. It's fantastic, incredible.
I'm at a loss for words to describe this book.
I was hooked from the first chapter.
The author did an excellent job with the characters.
The first of many twists really messed with my head, and I loved it!
This book had it all: multiple POVs, an untrustworthy narrator, a murder trial, a classic thriller race against time, and everything else a stunning physiological thriller requires.
I was blown away by the author's obvious talent and dedication to this book, and it has made me want to read more of their work.
April 5, 2022
Andy Maslen completes a riveting phycological thriller
As such, this book is quite different from his usual great fictional stories that are series with great characters. Examples include DCI Henry Ford, Stella Cole, and Gabriel Wolfe. Add to that it's a different genre for him.
One unusual aspect of this book is that Maslen writes as the character is speaking. This mean you, the reader, is tied in to the story in a different way than other authors might do.
So be prepared: you're not wanting to quit reading once you start. But you should start anyway because you will definitely find it is worth it.
As such, this book is quite different from his usual great fictional stories that are series with great characters. Examples include DCI Henry Ford, Stella Cole, and Gabriel Wolfe. Add to that it's a different genre for him.
One unusual aspect of this book is that Maslen writes as the character is speaking. This mean you, the reader, is tied in to the story in a different way than other authors might do.
So be prepared: you're not wanting to quit reading once you start. But you should start anyway because you will definitely find it is worth it.
November 25, 2022
A very good psychological thriller, maybe one twist & turn away from brilliant!
I've read a few of the DI Henry Ford series from Andy Maslen and have enjoyed them all. This time it's a stand alone thriller where the female lead has to battle to determine if she is the killer of her infant child, or her husband!
Part Police procedural, part courtroom thriller and part 'sleeping with the enemy' style psychological thriller, I zoomed through this in a day, and would highly recommend it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
I've read a few of the DI Henry Ford series from Andy Maslen and have enjoyed them all. This time it's a stand alone thriller where the female lead has to battle to determine if she is the killer of her infant child, or her husband!
Part Police procedural, part courtroom thriller and part 'sleeping with the enemy' style psychological thriller, I zoomed through this in a day, and would highly recommend it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
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