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The Judas Tree
A devastating thriller set in a Cornish boarding school from the author of The Haven and The Storm…
At a bleak boys boarding school in Cornwall in the eighties when bullying is rife, Will and his best friend Luke are involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving.
Twenty-five years later their paths cross again and memories of a painful childhood come flooding back to haunt them both.
Will’s wife, Harmony, is struggling after a miscarriage that has hit her hard, and wishes Will would open up about what happened. But as Will withdraws further, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husband’s past, Luke, and soon all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, desire and revenge…
At a bleak boys boarding school in Cornwall in the eighties when bullying is rife, Will and his best friend Luke are involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving.
Twenty-five years later their paths cross again and memories of a painful childhood come flooding back to haunt them both.
Will’s wife, Harmony, is struggling after a miscarriage that has hit her hard, and wishes Will would open up about what happened. But as Will withdraws further, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husband’s past, Luke, and soon all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, desire and revenge…
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2014
21 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Jennings
13 books270 followersAmanda is mother to three daughters and lives in chaotic contentment just outside Henley-on-Thames with a houseful of pets and a husband. She is the author of five books, Sworn Secret, The Judas Scar, In Her Wake, The Cliff House and The Storm which is coming out in July 2020. She is currently working on her sixth novel. A psychological thriller set on the wilds of Bodmin Moor, in Cornwall. If she isn't by the sea then she would like to be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
August 21, 2023
First book by this author and it won't be my last.
This book pulls you in from the beginning and doesn't let you go. This is definitely one of those books that when you stop reading for a minute you find yourself surprised to find yourself in your own surroundings. Credit to the author.
Five stars.
This book pulls you in from the beginning and doesn't let you go. This is definitely one of those books that when you stop reading for a minute you find yourself surprised to find yourself in your own surroundings. Credit to the author.
Five stars.
February 4, 2016
5++ Amazing Stars
Geez, I was way out of my element reading this. I can't stress enough how much I loved this! The story takes place in London. Two damaged boys, results of both of their hateful fathers are sent to a school called Farrington Hall. It's there that they share a dormitory with about 30 other boys. The things that go on there, it killed me. I was just beside myself through this story and if it were possible to get hold of the Mr. Drysdales or the Alastair Farrows of the world... I would definitely do time! The name of these troubled boys are Will English and Luke Crawford. This story goes from Present to Flashbacks and I think it was done perfectly but then hell what do I know? I'm not a pro.
What these boys have become in present day are men who have tried to move on with their lives keeping the awful memories hidden deep, but Will is silently tormented by the memories everyday and has never been open about it with anyone, including his wife of 20 years. The emotional damage inflicted upon him growing up influenced his want of children... he simply didn't want and his wife Harmony was clear on that yet she does end up pregnant but then loses it. Then when a secret is revealed by Will to his wife...
...Maybe a wee bit? So not cool babe.
This is when the story takes off and begins going off the rails one car at a time and by the end of the book, a train wreck! Kind of cliché? Of course but there is no better way to describe it!
Luke Crawford on the other hand appears 25 years later throwing Will into a tailspin. You want to talk about tension! This author put me right there in their world, made me nervous with so much being said silently just between looks and innuendo galore! Now Luke openly makes comments throwing nibbles here and there. The pieces are coming together slowly as it goes back and forth with their flashbacks.
I didn't do it! Don't hurt me. It was him, not me. It was Luke.~~WILL
I just wanted to scream and go on a rampage through my house destroying things! I cried for Luke the entire time I read this! And don't think these quotes indicate anything specific because I cried for Will as well, they only had each other, they had become best friends. Blood brothers, their matching scars to prove it.
"No, Will! Tell him the truth. Please! Blood brothers, remember? I'll watch your back, you watch mine. You said-"
"Shut up, Luke!" Will screamed, clamping his hands over his ears. "I hate you, don't you understand? I hate you. I wish I'd never met you. I hate you!"
This is exactly how I was feeling within my household.
Will's secret sure scars his relationship with his wife, in disbelief and heartbroken she goes to stay with a friend to sort things out. There was so much to learn about Will and Luke and the pieces that came together broke my heart even more and I didn't think it was possible. Will's time alone while Harmony was getting her "space" made me sad. He loved his wife so much and he learned a few things about himself and I just wanted to hug the man. Harmony I wanted to smack the shit out of her and shove her excuses right down her throat. Luke, my love Luke...
The ending Holy! Amanda Jennings you gave me exactly what I crave, an ending that stole my breath!. Shocked me! Brought me to my knees (if I had been standing! ;D) AMAZING!I will never forget this story! I LOVE IT! Thank God I chose to go with it for I do tend to judge a book by it's cover a lot. I am ecstatic that I didn't!
Geez, I was way out of my element reading this. I can't stress enough how much I loved this! The story takes place in London. Two damaged boys, results of both of their hateful fathers are sent to a school called Farrington Hall. It's there that they share a dormitory with about 30 other boys. The things that go on there, it killed me. I was just beside myself through this story and if it were possible to get hold of the Mr. Drysdales or the Alastair Farrows of the world... I would definitely do time! The name of these troubled boys are Will English and Luke Crawford. This story goes from Present to Flashbacks and I think it was done perfectly but then hell what do I know? I'm not a pro.
What these boys have become in present day are men who have tried to move on with their lives keeping the awful memories hidden deep, but Will is silently tormented by the memories everyday and has never been open about it with anyone, including his wife of 20 years. The emotional damage inflicted upon him growing up influenced his want of children... he simply didn't want and his wife Harmony was clear on that yet she does end up pregnant but then loses it. Then when a secret is revealed by Will to his wife...
...Maybe a wee bit? So not cool babe.
This is when the story takes off and begins going off the rails one car at a time and by the end of the book, a train wreck! Kind of cliché? Of course but there is no better way to describe it!
Luke Crawford on the other hand appears 25 years later throwing Will into a tailspin. You want to talk about tension! This author put me right there in their world, made me nervous with so much being said silently just between looks and innuendo galore! Now Luke openly makes comments throwing nibbles here and there. The pieces are coming together slowly as it goes back and forth with their flashbacks.
I didn't do it! Don't hurt me. It was him, not me. It was Luke.~~WILL
I just wanted to scream and go on a rampage through my house destroying things! I cried for Luke the entire time I read this! And don't think these quotes indicate anything specific because I cried for Will as well, they only had each other, they had become best friends. Blood brothers, their matching scars to prove it.
"No, Will! Tell him the truth. Please! Blood brothers, remember? I'll watch your back, you watch mine. You said-"
"Shut up, Luke!" Will screamed, clamping his hands over his ears. "I hate you, don't you understand? I hate you. I wish I'd never met you. I hate you!"
This is exactly how I was feeling within my household.
Will's secret sure scars his relationship with his wife, in disbelief and heartbroken she goes to stay with a friend to sort things out. There was so much to learn about Will and Luke and the pieces that came together broke my heart even more and I didn't think it was possible. Will's time alone while Harmony was getting her "space" made me sad. He loved his wife so much and he learned a few things about himself and I just wanted to hug the man. Harmony I wanted to smack the shit out of her and shove her excuses right down her throat. Luke, my love Luke...
The ending Holy! Amanda Jennings you gave me exactly what I crave, an ending that stole my breath!. Shocked me! Brought me to my knees (if I had been standing! ;D) AMAZING!I will never forget this story! I LOVE IT! Thank God I chose to go with it for I do tend to judge a book by it's cover a lot. I am ecstatic that I didn't!
January 8, 2023
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
April 21, 2014
Publication Date: 1st May 2014 from Cutting Edge Press.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the review copy.
Scars. We all carry them. Some are mere scratches. Others run deeper.
At a school rife with bullying, Will and his best friend Luke are involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving.
Twenty-five years later their paths cross again and memories of Will’s painful childhood come flooding back to haunt him. His wife, Harmony, who is struggling after a miscarriage that has hit her hard, wishes Will would open up about his experiences. But while Will withdraws further, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husbands past, and soon all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, desire, betrayal.
Oh what a tangled web we weave…and this was a beautifully evocative character driven tale of those things which haunt us and shape who we are. With some intensely drawn and authentic characters to lead the way this was dark, addictive reading of the best kind.
This is one of those stories where you get SO involved in the lives of the people within its pages that they become very real to you. You want to comfort them, shout at them, turn them back from the brink…and you live through every single moment with them. I loved Harmony, loyal yet torn between want, need and love. I felt deeply for Luke and was endlessly annoyed at Will..the next reader will see it all differently no doubt and therein lies the beauty of the writing.
The story ebbs and flows in a compelling way – as a look at the psychological effects of bullying it is realistic and emotional. The things that happen to us in childhood resonate on and when that experience is as harsh and often violent as bullying can be there can be long term damage that isnt always easy to see. This comes across extremely well here – again because of the characters who truly tell the tale.
Dark themes here, handled with intelligence and compassion, I thought this was terrific. Highly Recommended.
Happy Reading Folks!
Thank you to the author and publisher for the review copy.
Scars. We all carry them. Some are mere scratches. Others run deeper.
At a school rife with bullying, Will and his best friend Luke are involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving.
Twenty-five years later their paths cross again and memories of Will’s painful childhood come flooding back to haunt him. His wife, Harmony, who is struggling after a miscarriage that has hit her hard, wishes Will would open up about his experiences. But while Will withdraws further, she finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husbands past, and soon all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, desire, betrayal.
Oh what a tangled web we weave…and this was a beautifully evocative character driven tale of those things which haunt us and shape who we are. With some intensely drawn and authentic characters to lead the way this was dark, addictive reading of the best kind.
This is one of those stories where you get SO involved in the lives of the people within its pages that they become very real to you. You want to comfort them, shout at them, turn them back from the brink…and you live through every single moment with them. I loved Harmony, loyal yet torn between want, need and love. I felt deeply for Luke and was endlessly annoyed at Will..the next reader will see it all differently no doubt and therein lies the beauty of the writing.
The story ebbs and flows in a compelling way – as a look at the psychological effects of bullying it is realistic and emotional. The things that happen to us in childhood resonate on and when that experience is as harsh and often violent as bullying can be there can be long term damage that isnt always easy to see. This comes across extremely well here – again because of the characters who truly tell the tale.
Dark themes here, handled with intelligence and compassion, I thought this was terrific. Highly Recommended.
Happy Reading Folks!
November 24, 2022
Things are never quite as they seem on the outside. That's certainly true of Will and Harmony's marriage. They appear to be rock solid. Married for twenty years and so in love, both have careers that they enjoy, they love their quirky flat, they have many friends. But this is a story about scars and their marriage bears a huge scar. Harmony lost their unborn child a few months ago, and she is hurting. Will has always been clear that he doesn't want to be a father, and when Harmony decides that she'd like to try for another baby, the old wounds beneath Will's scars open up and he discloses a secret that could potentially rip their world apart.
As Harmony deals with Will's disclosure she finds herself drawn towards Luke; an old friend from Will's schooldays. Will and Luke have matching, visible scars - across the palm of their hands and created when they decided that they were blood brothers and would never let each other down. It is clear though, as the story progresses, that Luke has invisible scars too. He and Will are not comfortable in each other's company, there are secrets in their past that have never been discussed, and Luke intends to make someone pay for the way that his life turned out.
Amanda Jennings's writing is broody and dark, there is an underlying tension throughout this novel that is just waiting to explode. Will and Harmony are well-formed characters, they both have issues; Will can't bear to talk about his schooldays or his late Father, Harmony struggles to cope with the loss of those that she has loved; her Father, her Mother and her unborn child.
Luke is obsessive. He sets his sights on Harmony and is not prepared to give up until he has got what he wants. Obsessions, tormentors, bullying and scars; both hidden and visible - these are the themes that run through The Judas Scar, and as the story twists and turns to the shocking conclusion, the reader is swept along by the wonderfully descriptive writing.
The Judas Tree is one of those novels that you need to keep reading ..... just one more page ..... because the instant that you put it down, you'll be thinking of it, and when you finish it, you'll be wondering about it for quite a while.
Tense, tightly plotted with characters that are by no means perfect, and in some cases just twisted. I was totally transfixed by the story - an excellent read from a talented author.
As Harmony deals with Will's disclosure she finds herself drawn towards Luke; an old friend from Will's schooldays. Will and Luke have matching, visible scars - across the palm of their hands and created when they decided that they were blood brothers and would never let each other down. It is clear though, as the story progresses, that Luke has invisible scars too. He and Will are not comfortable in each other's company, there are secrets in their past that have never been discussed, and Luke intends to make someone pay for the way that his life turned out.
Amanda Jennings's writing is broody and dark, there is an underlying tension throughout this novel that is just waiting to explode. Will and Harmony are well-formed characters, they both have issues; Will can't bear to talk about his schooldays or his late Father, Harmony struggles to cope with the loss of those that she has loved; her Father, her Mother and her unborn child.
Luke is obsessive. He sets his sights on Harmony and is not prepared to give up until he has got what he wants. Obsessions, tormentors, bullying and scars; both hidden and visible - these are the themes that run through The Judas Scar, and as the story twists and turns to the shocking conclusion, the reader is swept along by the wonderfully descriptive writing.
The Judas Tree is one of those novels that you need to keep reading ..... just one more page ..... because the instant that you put it down, you'll be thinking of it, and when you finish it, you'll be wondering about it for quite a while.
Tense, tightly plotted with characters that are by no means perfect, and in some cases just twisted. I was totally transfixed by the story - an excellent read from a talented author.
April 23, 2014
Things are never quite as they seem on the outside. That's certainly true of Will and Harmony's marriage. They appear to be rock solid. Married for twenty years and so in love, both have careers that they enjoy, they love their quirky flat, they have many friends. But this is a story about scars and their marriage bears a huge scar. Harmony lost their unborn child a few months ago, and she is hurting. Will has always been clear that he doesn't want to be a father, and when Harmony decides that she'd like to try for another baby, the old wounds beneath Will's scars open up and he discloses a secret that could potentially rip their world apart.
As Harmony deals with Will's disclosure she finds herself drawn towards Luke; an old friend from Will's schooldays. Will and Luke have matching, visible scars - across the palm of their hands and created when they decided that they were blood brothers and would never let each other down. It is clear though, as the story progresses, that Luke has invisible scars too. He and Will are not comfortable in each other's company, there are secrets in their past that have never been discussed, and Luke intends to make someone pay for the way that his life turned out.
Amanda Jennings's writing is broody and dark, there is an underlying tension throughout this novel that is just waiting to explode. Will and Harmony are well-formed characters, they both have issues; Will can't bear to talk about his schooldays or his late Father, Harmony struggles to cope with the loss of those that she has loved; her Father, her Mother and her unborn child.
Luke is obsessive. He sets his sights on Harmony and is not prepared to give up until he has got what he wants. Obsessions, tormentors, bullying and scars; both hidden and visible - these are the themes that run through The Judas Scar, and as the story twists and turns to the shocking conclusion, the reader is swept along by the wonderfully descriptive writing.
The Judas Scar is one of those novels that you need to keep reading ..... just one more page ..... because the instant that you put it down, you'll be thinking of it, and when you finish it, you'll be wondering about it for quite a while.
Tense, tightly plotted with characters that are by no means perfect, and in some cases just twisted. I was totally transfixed by the story - an excellent read from a talented author.
As Harmony deals with Will's disclosure she finds herself drawn towards Luke; an old friend from Will's schooldays. Will and Luke have matching, visible scars - across the palm of their hands and created when they decided that they were blood brothers and would never let each other down. It is clear though, as the story progresses, that Luke has invisible scars too. He and Will are not comfortable in each other's company, there are secrets in their past that have never been discussed, and Luke intends to make someone pay for the way that his life turned out.
Amanda Jennings's writing is broody and dark, there is an underlying tension throughout this novel that is just waiting to explode. Will and Harmony are well-formed characters, they both have issues; Will can't bear to talk about his schooldays or his late Father, Harmony struggles to cope with the loss of those that she has loved; her Father, her Mother and her unborn child.
Luke is obsessive. He sets his sights on Harmony and is not prepared to give up until he has got what he wants. Obsessions, tormentors, bullying and scars; both hidden and visible - these are the themes that run through The Judas Scar, and as the story twists and turns to the shocking conclusion, the reader is swept along by the wonderfully descriptive writing.
The Judas Scar is one of those novels that you need to keep reading ..... just one more page ..... because the instant that you put it down, you'll be thinking of it, and when you finish it, you'll be wondering about it for quite a while.
Tense, tightly plotted with characters that are by no means perfect, and in some cases just twisted. I was totally transfixed by the story - an excellent read from a talented author.
November 11, 2022
The Judas Tree by Amanda Jennings Narrated by: Joe Jameson Length: 8 hrs and 32 mins. I really enjoyed this audiobook from the beginning till the end, it was full of great twists and turns and it's a very sensitive subject to talk or write about. Amanda wrote this story with great compassion especially as its a hard subject to talk about especially if you were a 80's child..
This book was mainly about 2 boys Luke and Will, they were best friends, who went to a bleak boys boarding school in Cornwall in the eighties this was when bullying is rife, They were involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving suddenly and they lost contact with each other.
Until twenty-five years later, their paths cross again. So, many bad memories of their painful childhood all came flooding back to haunt them both, and they don't know how to deal with it.
Will is now married to Harmony, and she is struggling after a miscarriage and it's hit her hard, Harmony, wishes Will would open up about what happened and be supportive.. But, Will withdraws further, and she then finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husband’s past who she meets at their friends party,
Luke comes over all charming and magical towards Harmony and she want to know more about him, but he never tells her his name on the evening when they meet! Why? I wonder.........However, all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, love, desire and revenge…..........Someone will get hurt But who?
This was So good, I didn't want it to finish as I wanted it to be longer.
The author notes at the end was a powerful piece of writing and rounded this book off very well. Sending bugs hugs to you all.
I highly recommend The Judas Tree it was a 5 star audiobook. I will be looking out for this author in the future.
Big Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK Audio, HQ for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for a honest review.
This book was mainly about 2 boys Luke and Will, they were best friends, who went to a bleak boys boarding school in Cornwall in the eighties this was when bullying is rife, They were involved in a horrific incident that results in Luke leaving suddenly and they lost contact with each other.
Until twenty-five years later, their paths cross again. So, many bad memories of their painful childhood all came flooding back to haunt them both, and they don't know how to deal with it.
Will is now married to Harmony, and she is struggling after a miscarriage and it's hit her hard, Harmony, wishes Will would open up about what happened and be supportive.. But, Will withdraws further, and she then finds herself drawn to the charismatic stranger from her husband’s past who she meets at their friends party,
Luke comes over all charming and magical towards Harmony and she want to know more about him, but he never tells her his name on the evening when they meet! Why? I wonder.........However, all three are caught in a tangled web of guilt, love, desire and revenge…..........Someone will get hurt But who?
This was So good, I didn't want it to finish as I wanted it to be longer.
The author notes at the end was a powerful piece of writing and rounded this book off very well. Sending bugs hugs to you all.
I highly recommend The Judas Tree it was a 5 star audiobook. I will be looking out for this author in the future.
Big Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK Audio, HQ for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for a honest review.
November 25, 2014
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
'The Judas Scar' is the second novel by Ms Jennings, but it's the first book by her I had the opportunity to check out. I really try hard to have a blank slate state of mind when I start reading a book, as well as not have any expectations, especially if I haven't read anything by that author. However, I've been hearing so so many great comments about 'The Judas Scar' I simply couldn't wait to find out what's the reason for the buzz. And yes, I had high expectations, but as high as they were I didn't expect to love this book so so much. So, as you see, the buzz is sometimes right and in the case of 'The Judas Scar' I totally approve of it.
The story follows Will and Harmony, who're married but experience slight troubles in their marriage ever since they lost their baby. They have always been a couple people look up to, solid marriage, lots of love for each other, even not having a baby was something they agreed on years back. However, after realizing she's pregnant, Harmony couldn't be happier while Will is having second thoughts but doesn't feel strong enough to confront his wife about how this unborn child is making him feel. But after losing the baby, Harmony is feeling down though she's still trying to be the rock Will relies on. But she isn't the strong Harmony any more, while Will experiences some other emotions besides grief. But, their lives become even more complicated when Luke, Will's friend from boarding school shows up, bringing up some memories and secrets Will has been trying hard to bury.
Secrets, lies, love, lust, this book has it all. There are so many aspects Ms Jennings covered in this book. Loyalty and trust between partners and friends, the hurt and anger of feeling betrayed, the sadness of living a life without feeling the love of parents. The story is too complex and would take me a lot of time to analyze every aspect of it. It's also a thought provoking novel, one that will make you think about your own life, marriage, friendships. The novel took off to a slow start and I must say I wasn't impressed with Harmony at the beginning. She seemed too perfect as a character and very unrealistic. However, once Luke was introduced to the scene, the real action began and things started developing in a direction I didn't expect them to go. I saw the characters (Will, Luke and Harmony) transform in front of my eyes, showing they are not what I thought they were at the beginning. Sometimes life situations, especially what we've been through in our childhood define us and for some those very childhood memories are a burden they carry for all their lives. We all have scars, every person we've met has had an impact on us. Each of us has had a Judas in their lives, those that haven't, you should consider yourself lucky. But it's not the scars that make us who we are, but the ways we try to heal them and move on. Either we forgive, or we turn into bitter, full of anger people. Same happens to the characters in this book. The book explores so many serious topics, one of them being bullying, and the way sometimes people close their eyes in front of it. It's getting epidemic proportions in some countries and it's taking its toll every day with hundreds and hundreds children every day damaging them (physically or mentally). Maybe bullying was always a problem each society through history had to face, but seems lately it's taking bigger proportions and loads of different forms. It's a problem we all need to work on and try our hardest to stop it. Nothing is more fragile than a child, and as grown ups we need to work on persevering the innocence and well being of the youngest.
As you see, there are a LOT of topics these book covers and a lot of things it will make you think about. Even days after finishing it, I can't take this book off my mind. Fantastic psychological thriller revealing the darkest sides of a human psyche. I can only imagine how hard it was for Ms Jennings to write such a book, especially since she's passionate about the subjects as she reveals at the end of the book. Must have been cathartic even, and I applaud to her for delivering this book in such a realistic way, for creating such diverse and memorable characters and for keeping me guessing till the very last page. I honestly feared the slow pace and the number of characters involved in the story (too little for my liking) would stop me from thoroughly enjoying this book. However, this is truly a gripping, atmospheric read that will get so many emotions out of you. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone, especially fans of family drama/mystery/psychological thrillers. Prepare yourself for one hell of a journey!
April 24, 2014
I was offered a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review or not.... She did warn me it was a bit dark - but, who doesn't like a bit dark?
The story centres around Will and Harmony a couple on the surface at least, very much in love but each, in different ways struggling to come to terms with a miscarriage. This appears to be the catalyst for a string of events that cause their life to implode. Then enter Luke an enigmatic stranger that Harmony meets at a party - at this point it's very obvious there's trouble to come but nothing prepared me for how deep that trouble had and would run.
Amanda displays the hurt and childhood scars that have shaped Will and Luke in particular. Thus highlighting how our childhood provides the foundations for us to grow into adults. Not everyone has a solid, safe, loving and caring upbringing. Some have a shakier start and it is past events that eventually cause the foundations of this triangle to crumble.
Public schooling and bullying all to often, sadly, go hand in hand and this story tackles this issue head on. Amanda spares no punches and during the course of this book we bear witness to some strong emotions - bitterness, hate, revenge and hurt go hand in hand with self loathing, guilt and remorse. Above all this story highlights how events in our childhood if not dealt with follow us into adulthood and can have a huge impact upon the adults we become.
I read this book in one sitting, it really was compulsive reading - based on the subject matter I'm not sure what that says about me or Amanda really. I formed opinions about what and why things were happening but nothing prepared me for the strong emotions that were so at odds. Two totally different sets of emotions were evoked in me, I didn't always like them as adults and felt anger and hate towards them yet as children I just wanted to cry for them, sit holding and protecting them feeling love and pity.
I highly recommend this book, it is compulsive reading so be prepared once you've read the first page you won't put it down until you've read the last. It left me thinking of many cliches 'what goes around comes around' being one of them. Trust and loyalty when lost can have catastrophic consequences in any relationship. When I finished the book I did feel numb I had to 'hide under the duvet' whilst I analysed my feelings and emotions - a book that stays with you long after the final page is a joy to find.
The story centres around Will and Harmony a couple on the surface at least, very much in love but each, in different ways struggling to come to terms with a miscarriage. This appears to be the catalyst for a string of events that cause their life to implode. Then enter Luke an enigmatic stranger that Harmony meets at a party - at this point it's very obvious there's trouble to come but nothing prepared me for how deep that trouble had and would run.
Amanda displays the hurt and childhood scars that have shaped Will and Luke in particular. Thus highlighting how our childhood provides the foundations for us to grow into adults. Not everyone has a solid, safe, loving and caring upbringing. Some have a shakier start and it is past events that eventually cause the foundations of this triangle to crumble.
Public schooling and bullying all to often, sadly, go hand in hand and this story tackles this issue head on. Amanda spares no punches and during the course of this book we bear witness to some strong emotions - bitterness, hate, revenge and hurt go hand in hand with self loathing, guilt and remorse. Above all this story highlights how events in our childhood if not dealt with follow us into adulthood and can have a huge impact upon the adults we become.
I read this book in one sitting, it really was compulsive reading - based on the subject matter I'm not sure what that says about me or Amanda really. I formed opinions about what and why things were happening but nothing prepared me for the strong emotions that were so at odds. Two totally different sets of emotions were evoked in me, I didn't always like them as adults and felt anger and hate towards them yet as children I just wanted to cry for them, sit holding and protecting them feeling love and pity.
I highly recommend this book, it is compulsive reading so be prepared once you've read the first page you won't put it down until you've read the last. It left me thinking of many cliches 'what goes around comes around' being one of them. Trust and loyalty when lost can have catastrophic consequences in any relationship. When I finished the book I did feel numb I had to 'hide under the duvet' whilst I analysed my feelings and emotions - a book that stays with you long after the final page is a joy to find.
October 28, 2014
Originally posted on: http://addictivechicklit.blogspot.com...
I had heart great things about this book so when I won a signed copy on Sophie's blog Reviewed the Book (check it out, it's a great blog), I was over the moon. And now that I have read it, even more. It is definitely one of the best books I have read this year. The prologue took my breath away and from that moment I was totally hooked to its pages, discovering bit by bit Will and Harmony's story.
Will and Harmony are in a difficult moment, after agreeing on not having children, Harmony fell pregnant and felt somehow complete, with a joy inside her like nothing before, so when she suffers a miscarriage, her world falls apart and Will, with still troubled by demons of the past, is not there to give her the support she needs. Now add Luke to this cocktail, charming, determined, even obsessive. He comes from Will's buried past and is not afraid of unveil it and take Will's present from him.
Through these characters, Amanda Jennings handles serious topics like bullying and abuse in a very sensitive way but without avoiding the darkness that always surrounds them. There are some twists and revealed secrets that make you wonder where some humans have lost their humanity. One thing for sure, this book awakens strong emotions in oneself. You won't be left indifferent.
And what an ending. Once I finished, I felt numb. Like I had so many thoughts and feelings and my brain wasn't able to process them, questions kept popping into my mind and little bits of the book kept coming back to me. I am sure this book is going to stay with me for a long while. Plus, I reccommend that you read the author's notes because Amanda explains where she came up with this idea and it just reminds you that this might be a work of fiction but it's not far from the truth of this world. The Judas Scar is a must read and I can't wait to read more from Amanda.
I had heart great things about this book so when I won a signed copy on Sophie's blog Reviewed the Book (check it out, it's a great blog), I was over the moon. And now that I have read it, even more. It is definitely one of the best books I have read this year. The prologue took my breath away and from that moment I was totally hooked to its pages, discovering bit by bit Will and Harmony's story.
Will and Harmony are in a difficult moment, after agreeing on not having children, Harmony fell pregnant and felt somehow complete, with a joy inside her like nothing before, so when she suffers a miscarriage, her world falls apart and Will, with still troubled by demons of the past, is not there to give her the support she needs. Now add Luke to this cocktail, charming, determined, even obsessive. He comes from Will's buried past and is not afraid of unveil it and take Will's present from him.
Through these characters, Amanda Jennings handles serious topics like bullying and abuse in a very sensitive way but without avoiding the darkness that always surrounds them. There are some twists and revealed secrets that make you wonder where some humans have lost their humanity. One thing for sure, this book awakens strong emotions in oneself. You won't be left indifferent.
And what an ending. Once I finished, I felt numb. Like I had so many thoughts and feelings and my brain wasn't able to process them, questions kept popping into my mind and little bits of the book kept coming back to me. I am sure this book is going to stay with me for a long while. Plus, I reccommend that you read the author's notes because Amanda explains where she came up with this idea and it just reminds you that this might be a work of fiction but it's not far from the truth of this world. The Judas Scar is a must read and I can't wait to read more from Amanda.
November 20, 2014
Judas Scar by Amanda Jennings
Entering into their marriage Will and Harmony agreed they would not have children. Life is not according to plans and so when she finds herself pregnant she is surprised by the realization that she really wants this child. When she miscarried she was devastated but Will was not and it leaves her hurt and confused. At her best friend Emma’s 40th birthday party she encounters an enigmatic stranger who she only later discovers is Will’s childhood friend from boarding school. Will had so much hidden deep down and through Luke, Harmony discovers just what happened to Will during his childhood that made him so closed off. The Judas Scar is a story examines what secrets can do when allowed to fester. The pace builds quite slowly at the start, but about halfway through it really picks up and the emotion of the first half takes on a darker and far more intense twist in the second. It becomes a race to the end to discover what is really going on with Luke and what really took place when he and Will were at school together. IMO a must read for every parent and child. Excellent
Entering into their marriage Will and Harmony agreed they would not have children. Life is not according to plans and so when she finds herself pregnant she is surprised by the realization that she really wants this child. When she miscarried she was devastated but Will was not and it leaves her hurt and confused. At her best friend Emma’s 40th birthday party she encounters an enigmatic stranger who she only later discovers is Will’s childhood friend from boarding school. Will had so much hidden deep down and through Luke, Harmony discovers just what happened to Will during his childhood that made him so closed off. The Judas Scar is a story examines what secrets can do when allowed to fester. The pace builds quite slowly at the start, but about halfway through it really picks up and the emotion of the first half takes on a darker and far more intense twist in the second. It becomes a race to the end to discover what is really going on with Luke and what really took place when he and Will were at school together. IMO a must read for every parent and child. Excellent
March 12, 2014
I was lucky enough to read a proof copy of this book, and I devoured it in no time at all!! I was a big fan of "Sworn Secret: so this had big shoes to fill, but it absolutely rose to the challenge and excelled!! What a fantastic read……….Amanda brilliantly interweaves different strands of story which gets you wondering which way things are going from early on, and just HAVING/NEEDING/WANTING to read one more chapter, and one more, and one more! The characters are really recognisable, and the story really packs a punch, with tension, excitement and highs and lows of emotion. Don't even think about reading this if you don't have any time, as it will take over your life until you've finished it, but DO read it, it's so good, I can recommend it enough!
August 7, 2015
2 stars
Two men, Luke and Will, meet up after decades of not seeing each other. They were close childhood friends, 'blood brothers' in fact, and met at boarding school where they each had a difficult time for different reasons, and carry the scars to prove it. Will has suppressed his past and kept it from his wife and the arrival of Luke is effectively the ghost-of-boarding-school-past, catching up. Without revealing spoilers, it is in essence a story of love, loss, betrayal and revenge. A fairly dark tale with only moments of light. Not my usual read, if I have one. Cursed with a writer's eye, I have my personal reasons for the rating, but I'm sure that many will enjoy this book. It is a decent story, but it wasn't for me.
Two men, Luke and Will, meet up after decades of not seeing each other. They were close childhood friends, 'blood brothers' in fact, and met at boarding school where they each had a difficult time for different reasons, and carry the scars to prove it. Will has suppressed his past and kept it from his wife and the arrival of Luke is effectively the ghost-of-boarding-school-past, catching up. Without revealing spoilers, it is in essence a story of love, loss, betrayal and revenge. A fairly dark tale with only moments of light. Not my usual read, if I have one. Cursed with a writer's eye, I have my personal reasons for the rating, but I'm sure that many will enjoy this book. It is a decent story, but it wasn't for me.
January 24, 2024
2.5 rounded up to 3 stars. Just something really dislikable about all the characters in this book. Really didn’t care what had happened to them, what dreadful things they were doing
to each other and felt they deserved what was coming to them. The Haven by the same author was so much better by comparison, go read that one!
to each other and felt they deserved what was coming to them. The Haven by the same author was so much better by comparison, go read that one!
July 19, 2014
Great read. You got to know the characters twice - how they appeared on the surface to everyone else and then as the story unfolded you got to find out what they were like underneath. What had driven them to become the person they now was. Very thought provoking.
October 27, 2024
This was a very easy book to get into & stay invested. The writing was captivating enough for me to finish this in must under 24 hours.
I also like domestic thrillers and this book included some juicy domestic drama that I appreciated.
This book has a few perspectives and timelines and follows a couple dealing with some fertility issues, past trauma, secrets and likes that all get worse when an old friend shows up for a surprise reunion.
I also like domestic thrillers and this book included some juicy domestic drama that I appreciated.
This book has a few perspectives and timelines and follows a couple dealing with some fertility issues, past trauma, secrets and likes that all get worse when an old friend shows up for a surprise reunion.
May 19, 2014
This book has been sitting on my TBR pile for longer than I care to remember and so I decided that it needed to be read. I’d heard a lot from fellow bloggers about The Judas Scar so was intrigued to see what would happen…
The Judas Scar has an incredibly interesting premise and follows the life of Harmony – a woman who, after reaching the age of forty and remaining childless, wants to try for another child with her husband, Will. Will isn’t so keen on the idea, in fact, he refuses to get Harmony pregnant, insisting that he never wanted children and had made that clear to Harmony from the start of their marriage.
At a party the couple are attending, Harmony gets lost in the crowd and ends up bumping into someone who could quite possibly be the perfect stranger. However, Harmony rejects the stranger’s advances and goes home with her husband. It’s only when attending a lunch party at a friend’s house that the perfect stranger walks back into her world and throws her life into chaos. Why does Will recognise this stranger? Why does Will look so terrified and, most importantly, where do Harmony’s loyalties lie? With the husband who refuses to give her the one thing she most desperately craves or with Luke, a stranger who she’s only just met but feels inexplicably drawn to?
If you like mystery filled plots with tangible tension between characters then this book is absolutely for you! I was hooked from the very first page and I found it incredibly hard to put down. The pace was spot on and the plot revealed itself at exactly the right points meaning you couldn’t put it down! You got to the end of a chapter and just HAD to read on to find out what would happen next.
I had a very strange relationship with these characters though – I ended up feeing the largest amount of sympathy for Will and silently cheering him on. I found it really hard to relate to Harmony at times and some of her behaviour totally irked me which gave me a really interesting insight into the plot, one which I wouldn’t have had if I had been on Harmony’s side the whole time. Maybe this was deliberately done by the author, maybe not, but I have to say I enjoyed feeling in the minority with my loyalty to Will.
The whole plot centred around one pivotal moment in Luke and Will’s life and the way every single event afterward could be linked back to that one moment was incredibly clever but also portrayed in a totally realistic and sensitive way. The Judas Scar does touch on numerous sensitive topics – miscarriage and bullying to name a few.
The one thing that let this plot down a little for me was the predictability of the climax – I could see where it was all leading to and I don’t know if that’s because it was obvious in the way the text was written or more because I’ve read stories along similar threads in the past. However, this was not a ridiculously bad thing; it just meant I wasn’t as shocked as I possibly could have been.
Overall, this is a fantastically written book that will have you racing through the pages to find out what happens next. Stuffed to the brim with intrigue, issues of morality and difficult decisions, The Judas Scar is a must read book this summer.
The Judas Scar has an incredibly interesting premise and follows the life of Harmony – a woman who, after reaching the age of forty and remaining childless, wants to try for another child with her husband, Will. Will isn’t so keen on the idea, in fact, he refuses to get Harmony pregnant, insisting that he never wanted children and had made that clear to Harmony from the start of their marriage.
At a party the couple are attending, Harmony gets lost in the crowd and ends up bumping into someone who could quite possibly be the perfect stranger. However, Harmony rejects the stranger’s advances and goes home with her husband. It’s only when attending a lunch party at a friend’s house that the perfect stranger walks back into her world and throws her life into chaos. Why does Will recognise this stranger? Why does Will look so terrified and, most importantly, where do Harmony’s loyalties lie? With the husband who refuses to give her the one thing she most desperately craves or with Luke, a stranger who she’s only just met but feels inexplicably drawn to?
If you like mystery filled plots with tangible tension between characters then this book is absolutely for you! I was hooked from the very first page and I found it incredibly hard to put down. The pace was spot on and the plot revealed itself at exactly the right points meaning you couldn’t put it down! You got to the end of a chapter and just HAD to read on to find out what would happen next.
I had a very strange relationship with these characters though – I ended up feeing the largest amount of sympathy for Will and silently cheering him on. I found it really hard to relate to Harmony at times and some of her behaviour totally irked me which gave me a really interesting insight into the plot, one which I wouldn’t have had if I had been on Harmony’s side the whole time. Maybe this was deliberately done by the author, maybe not, but I have to say I enjoyed feeling in the minority with my loyalty to Will.
The whole plot centred around one pivotal moment in Luke and Will’s life and the way every single event afterward could be linked back to that one moment was incredibly clever but also portrayed in a totally realistic and sensitive way. The Judas Scar does touch on numerous sensitive topics – miscarriage and bullying to name a few.
The one thing that let this plot down a little for me was the predictability of the climax – I could see where it was all leading to and I don’t know if that’s because it was obvious in the way the text was written or more because I’ve read stories along similar threads in the past. However, this was not a ridiculously bad thing; it just meant I wasn’t as shocked as I possibly could have been.
Overall, this is a fantastically written book that will have you racing through the pages to find out what happens next. Stuffed to the brim with intrigue, issues of morality and difficult decisions, The Judas Scar is a must read book this summer.
October 6, 2014
Review first posted on my blog: http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
Will and Harmony have been married for years and there’s nothing Harmony wants more than to have a child of her own. After the difficult time of dealing with a miscarriage and knowing she’s over 40 years old, Harmony decides she wants to give it another go. Will isn’t too excited about the prospect of having a child and he has always been clear about this to Harmony, ever since they got together. At a party, Harmony meets a handsome stranger and there are definitely sparks between them. She decides to ignore it, but during a dinner party she discovers the stranger is actually Will’s old school mate Luke. Harmony has difficulty ignoring Luke’s advances and at the same time Will seems to start behaving strangely, especially around Luke. What is it about this handsome stranger and what secret is Will hiding from Harmony?
One of the definite strengths of this novel is the fact that it will have you hooked after the first chapter. Amanda Jennings’ writing is really powerful and captivating, and after the first few pages it already felt like I was immersed in a different world with fascinating characters I wanted to learn more about. The three main characters in the book (Harmony, Will and Luke) are complex figures who are dealing with various issues, and I really enjoyed discovering more about their personalities and their past. I wouldn’t say I really warmed to any of the characters, especially Harmony came across as a bit distant, but this didn’t ruin the reading experience for me in any way; it fit the story and made it even stronger, in my opinion.
The book deals with some serious topics, such as miscarriage, trust, and bullying. The author deals with it all in a sensitive way, though, managing to bring it all together in one powerful and captivating story. I have to admit I don’t really like the cover of the book, but I guess that just once again shows that you should never judge a book solely by its cover! I do really like the title, though, it is cleverly picked and fits the book perfectly. Overall, ‘The Judas Scar’ is an incredibly intriguing, slightly dark and well-written read that you will not want to put down. I’ve really enjoyed my first Amanda Jennings novel and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future!
Will and Harmony have been married for years and there’s nothing Harmony wants more than to have a child of her own. After the difficult time of dealing with a miscarriage and knowing she’s over 40 years old, Harmony decides she wants to give it another go. Will isn’t too excited about the prospect of having a child and he has always been clear about this to Harmony, ever since they got together. At a party, Harmony meets a handsome stranger and there are definitely sparks between them. She decides to ignore it, but during a dinner party she discovers the stranger is actually Will’s old school mate Luke. Harmony has difficulty ignoring Luke’s advances and at the same time Will seems to start behaving strangely, especially around Luke. What is it about this handsome stranger and what secret is Will hiding from Harmony?
One of the definite strengths of this novel is the fact that it will have you hooked after the first chapter. Amanda Jennings’ writing is really powerful and captivating, and after the first few pages it already felt like I was immersed in a different world with fascinating characters I wanted to learn more about. The three main characters in the book (Harmony, Will and Luke) are complex figures who are dealing with various issues, and I really enjoyed discovering more about their personalities and their past. I wouldn’t say I really warmed to any of the characters, especially Harmony came across as a bit distant, but this didn’t ruin the reading experience for me in any way; it fit the story and made it even stronger, in my opinion.
The book deals with some serious topics, such as miscarriage, trust, and bullying. The author deals with it all in a sensitive way, though, managing to bring it all together in one powerful and captivating story. I have to admit I don’t really like the cover of the book, but I guess that just once again shows that you should never judge a book solely by its cover! I do really like the title, though, it is cleverly picked and fits the book perfectly. Overall, ‘The Judas Scar’ is an incredibly intriguing, slightly dark and well-written read that you will not want to put down. I’ve really enjoyed my first Amanda Jennings novel and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future!
May 9, 2014
Harmony has been happily married to Will for years. They have a lovely flat, jobs they enjoy and good friends. But a miscarriage six months ago has put a strain on their relationship. The couple never planned on having children but the surprise pregnancy changed Harmony's mind and she was devastated when they lost their baby. Will is reluctant to talk about the possibility of trying again, which is driving a wedge between the couple. He's always been adamant that he doesn't want to be a father, due to a traumatic childhood that he has shared very little of with Harmony. But when Will is reacquainted with Luke, an old school friend, his past resurfaces and Harmony may finally discover the truth about her husband's childhood.
I immediately felt for Harmony when I began reading The Judas Scar. She and Will have always agreed that they won't have children, but when Harmony discovers she is pregnant, that she is carrying a new life inside her, her outlook changes irrevocably. Sadly, she miscarries and she feels that Will isn't as supportive as he could be and feels she is carrying the burden of the loss on her own. There is clearly a reason why Will is so set against having children, but he refuses to talk about his past, leaving it buried where it can't harm him. But when Luke arrives, his past resurfaces and he is forced to face what happened all those years ago.
The book starts off quite gently at first as Harmony and Will try to deal with the miscarriage and the effect it is having on their marriage, but then the book starts to take on a much more sinister edge as the facts of Will's dark past begin to emerge. I think the thing I liked most about The Judas Scar was that nobody is entirely innocent, yet nor are they completely villainous. It isn't as black and white as that. Each person is affected by their past or the choices they make - which aren't always the wisest choices - and that made them far more real and believable for me. The secret of what happened is horrific in itself but the deep emotional scars and the refusal to deal with what happened causes yet more damage years down the line, which I found quite saddening and just goes to show that one event can have a domino effect of grief, gathering momentum as it continues to destroy lives.
I immediately felt for Harmony when I began reading The Judas Scar. She and Will have always agreed that they won't have children, but when Harmony discovers she is pregnant, that she is carrying a new life inside her, her outlook changes irrevocably. Sadly, she miscarries and she feels that Will isn't as supportive as he could be and feels she is carrying the burden of the loss on her own. There is clearly a reason why Will is so set against having children, but he refuses to talk about his past, leaving it buried where it can't harm him. But when Luke arrives, his past resurfaces and he is forced to face what happened all those years ago.
The book starts off quite gently at first as Harmony and Will try to deal with the miscarriage and the effect it is having on their marriage, but then the book starts to take on a much more sinister edge as the facts of Will's dark past begin to emerge. I think the thing I liked most about The Judas Scar was that nobody is entirely innocent, yet nor are they completely villainous. It isn't as black and white as that. Each person is affected by their past or the choices they make - which aren't always the wisest choices - and that made them far more real and believable for me. The secret of what happened is horrific in itself but the deep emotional scars and the refusal to deal with what happened causes yet more damage years down the line, which I found quite saddening and just goes to show that one event can have a domino effect of grief, gathering momentum as it continues to destroy lives.
May 28, 2014
This is the second book that I have read by Amanda Jennings and I have to say I am spellbound by her writing. This book is no exception and again I couldn’t put it down and read it cover to cover over one weekend.
There is nothing light and fluffy about Amanda’s writing, the characters are deep and have personalities that you either love or hate, but you respect them despite this. Within the Judas Scar you warm so much to Will and Harmony. They appear to have it all to start with, but sadly nothing is ever as it seems, especially when Luke appears on the scene. The subject matter of bullying is one that will always capture the reader attention, some can relate and some just can’t believe so much could stay hidden for so long, but you certainly know that’s how life was particularly when we were children. The book opens and wham, you are straight in the thick of the story. It’s dark, a very grown up read, full of twists and unexpected turns, emotional and is a flipping fantastic book – I couldn’t put down … an absolute stonker of a read and I was left feeling gob smacked!
I loved the way the book was written from a male point of view. In female fiction that doesn’t happen a lot and this book is so much richer for it. Will had so much hidden deep down and with Luke appearing on the scene it brought it all back to the surface. Harmony also didn’t have the perfect childhood but for many different reason. I’m reluctant to say too much about the story as I don’t want to give anything away … all I can say is, it’s a MUST read. You won’t be disappointed .. I promise! Also, read the Authors notes at the end, it explains how the concept of the story came about, that always fascinates me.
There is nothing light and fluffy about Amanda’s writing, the characters are deep and have personalities that you either love or hate, but you respect them despite this. Within the Judas Scar you warm so much to Will and Harmony. They appear to have it all to start with, but sadly nothing is ever as it seems, especially when Luke appears on the scene. The subject matter of bullying is one that will always capture the reader attention, some can relate and some just can’t believe so much could stay hidden for so long, but you certainly know that’s how life was particularly when we were children. The book opens and wham, you are straight in the thick of the story. It’s dark, a very grown up read, full of twists and unexpected turns, emotional and is a flipping fantastic book – I couldn’t put down … an absolute stonker of a read and I was left feeling gob smacked!
I loved the way the book was written from a male point of view. In female fiction that doesn’t happen a lot and this book is so much richer for it. Will had so much hidden deep down and with Luke appearing on the scene it brought it all back to the surface. Harmony also didn’t have the perfect childhood but for many different reason. I’m reluctant to say too much about the story as I don’t want to give anything away … all I can say is, it’s a MUST read. You won’t be disappointed .. I promise! Also, read the Authors notes at the end, it explains how the concept of the story came about, that always fascinates me.
February 10, 2017
Review also posted on my blog http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2014...
The Judas Scar is one of the best books I’ve ever read. It only took me about a chapter before I knew it was heading that way but Amanda blew me away with her incredible writing as this novel got stronger and stronger.
Harmony and Will both have their own demons, on top of the main issue affecting their marriage – the fact Harmony, still suffering from her miscarriage, is wanting to try for a baby when Will under no circumstances wants to become a father. Miscarriage is not the only serious theme in this book, bullying and abuse being simply two others but that the author could write as sensitively as she did without holding back from the seriousness of the events really wowed me. It was written, developed and handled better than I would expect from any other author.
Harmony, Luke and Will were three complex, intriguing characters. The twists and changes in each character as the plot developed kept me gripped and I liked how the characters weren’t controlled so we knew who to side with and who to dislike – nothing was black and white and the intricate way everything was tied to the characters’ youth and choices made in the past was really compelling and fascinating.
The Judas Scar was tense, dark and every turn in event unfolded flawlessly. It was twisted and completely impossible to put down (maybe that says a lot about me…). It was a one-sitting kind of read and so spectacularly written. Powerful, emotional and just the perfect novel.
5/5.
*Book gifted for honest review.
October 18, 2015
A gripping story with twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout.
"Will and Harmony's seemingly idyllic marriage is left shattered after she loses a baby she didn't realise she wanted...Removing herself from the crowd at a party, she encounters an enigmatic stranger whose advances she rejects, only to later discover that the handsome man is Will's childhood friend from boarding school, Luke.
When Will, struggling to confront the culture of bullying that marred his childhood, reveals a secret too painful for her to bear, Harmony is left caught between the husband she loves and the promises made by an obsessive stranger..."
The Judas Scar has been on my to-read list for far too long. Having been recommended by several book bloggers it kept being pushed back in the queue by new proofs until I recently decided to make a determined effort to read some of the books that I wanted to read rather than those I "should" be reading.
Now of course I'm kicking myself that I didn't read it sooner. The characters are a fascinating cast, well developed and full of realistic traits and flaws. I don't want to risk spoilers but I think it's fair to say that none of the main characters comes out of this story entirely sympathetically. I was frustrated at times, shouting "Don't do it!" and other advice - always a sign of a good read if I'm shouting at the book!
My one criticism would be that some of the plot twists were a little contrived but I was able to suspend disbelief for the sake of the story and enjoyed it as a whole, and I'm looking forward to more books by the same author.
My copy was purchased from Amazon Kindle Store.
"Will and Harmony's seemingly idyllic marriage is left shattered after she loses a baby she didn't realise she wanted...Removing herself from the crowd at a party, she encounters an enigmatic stranger whose advances she rejects, only to later discover that the handsome man is Will's childhood friend from boarding school, Luke.
When Will, struggling to confront the culture of bullying that marred his childhood, reveals a secret too painful for her to bear, Harmony is left caught between the husband she loves and the promises made by an obsessive stranger..."
The Judas Scar has been on my to-read list for far too long. Having been recommended by several book bloggers it kept being pushed back in the queue by new proofs until I recently decided to make a determined effort to read some of the books that I wanted to read rather than those I "should" be reading.
Now of course I'm kicking myself that I didn't read it sooner. The characters are a fascinating cast, well developed and full of realistic traits and flaws. I don't want to risk spoilers but I think it's fair to say that none of the main characters comes out of this story entirely sympathetically. I was frustrated at times, shouting "Don't do it!" and other advice - always a sign of a good read if I'm shouting at the book!
My one criticism would be that some of the plot twists were a little contrived but I was able to suspend disbelief for the sake of the story and enjoyed it as a whole, and I'm looking forward to more books by the same author.
My copy was purchased from Amazon Kindle Store.
November 18, 2022
The Judas Tree by Amanda Jennings is a gripping contemporary psychological thriller that seeps into your very core.
It is tragic. It is heartbreaking. It is a powerful tale showing the affects of a traumatic childhood on adulthood. An event, so awful, it never leaves you. The timescale of a life is split into ‘before’ and ‘now’. There will never be an ‘after’.
A chance meeting as adults opens up terrible wounds as two characters find themselves returning to the scenes from childhood, in their heads. Others who were there have moved on.
We witness a marriage trying to recover from a miscarriage. The cracks in the relationship go far deeper.
A young man, mixed up as a child by a distant father and a boys boarding school, still believes the lies he was told that he is no good and not worthy of any good things in life. The voices from his childhood, echo in his mind, tormenting the adult he became.
As the novel progresses, the idyllic life becomes tainted, by the past and the present. The happy atmosphere becomes creepy and sinister as Amanda Jennings guides the reader’s emotional responses with her words.
The Judas Tree was a compelling read. It was a read that shows how lives can be damaged in an instant but the effects last a lifetime. It was heartbreaking, horrifying and very powerful.
Amanda Jennings is a marvelous writer. I always find myself gripped by her words as I cling on till the end.
I received a free copy from the publishers for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word to the reader: If you are affected by any of the themes, please do not suffer in silence. Tell someone and get help.
It is tragic. It is heartbreaking. It is a powerful tale showing the affects of a traumatic childhood on adulthood. An event, so awful, it never leaves you. The timescale of a life is split into ‘before’ and ‘now’. There will never be an ‘after’.
A chance meeting as adults opens up terrible wounds as two characters find themselves returning to the scenes from childhood, in their heads. Others who were there have moved on.
We witness a marriage trying to recover from a miscarriage. The cracks in the relationship go far deeper.
A young man, mixed up as a child by a distant father and a boys boarding school, still believes the lies he was told that he is no good and not worthy of any good things in life. The voices from his childhood, echo in his mind, tormenting the adult he became.
As the novel progresses, the idyllic life becomes tainted, by the past and the present. The happy atmosphere becomes creepy and sinister as Amanda Jennings guides the reader’s emotional responses with her words.
The Judas Tree was a compelling read. It was a read that shows how lives can be damaged in an instant but the effects last a lifetime. It was heartbreaking, horrifying and very powerful.
Amanda Jennings is a marvelous writer. I always find myself gripped by her words as I cling on till the end.
I received a free copy from the publishers for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word to the reader: If you are affected by any of the themes, please do not suffer in silence. Tell someone and get help.
May 16, 2014
Originally posted on: http://lauraslittlebookblog.blogspot....
The minute I read the prologue for The Judas Scar, I was gripped. I needed to know what had happened that had got the unknown man into the dangerous position he was in.
I have read a similar novel to this recently in that people are never who you think they are on the outside. We all have a secret hiding beneath the surface, it's just a case of when it will come to light. I can happily say that this one did not disappoint!
Will and Harmony seem perfectly happy in their marriage but as the title of this book tells us, there are scars lurking underneath and a chance encounter with an old school 'friend' brings those scars right back to the surface again and some shocking truths are revealed.
Each character was incredibly intricate and especially Will. He has so much bottled up and hidden in his past, it's no wonder he has not truly moved on, but I could never truly sympathise with him. I felt more sorry for his wife Harmony on the other hand as because of Will, it prevents her from being truly happy.
I like trying to unpick the title of a book and when I discovered why it was called the Judas Scar, I thought it was really clever!
The book starts off at quite a steady pace but then it rapidly picks up momentum and then everything starts to surface.
There was a lot of tension in this and you are constantly just waiting for it to go bang! Amanda's writing keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The minute I read the prologue for The Judas Scar, I was gripped. I needed to know what had happened that had got the unknown man into the dangerous position he was in.
I have read a similar novel to this recently in that people are never who you think they are on the outside. We all have a secret hiding beneath the surface, it's just a case of when it will come to light. I can happily say that this one did not disappoint!
Will and Harmony seem perfectly happy in their marriage but as the title of this book tells us, there are scars lurking underneath and a chance encounter with an old school 'friend' brings those scars right back to the surface again and some shocking truths are revealed.
Each character was incredibly intricate and especially Will. He has so much bottled up and hidden in his past, it's no wonder he has not truly moved on, but I could never truly sympathise with him. I felt more sorry for his wife Harmony on the other hand as because of Will, it prevents her from being truly happy.
I like trying to unpick the title of a book and when I discovered why it was called the Judas Scar, I thought it was really clever!
The book starts off at quite a steady pace but then it rapidly picks up momentum and then everything starts to surface.
There was a lot of tension in this and you are constantly just waiting for it to go bang! Amanda's writing keeps you on the edge of your seat.
July 27, 2014
This book absolutely took my breath away. The central characters are Will and Harmony - outwardly, their relationship looks like one that we'd all like to aspire to. When they married he made it clear that he didn't want children, but when Harmony has a miscarriage she hopes that they will be able to try again. Then Luke comes into their lives - firstly as an attractive stranger at a party, then we discover that he has a shared history (and what a history...) with Will, from when they were friends at a public school. This is a story that swoops and turns, and we slowly discover the truth about that childhood relationship, and the scars it has left that profoundly affect the lives of the characters.
This is a really gripping read, a book that puts your emotions through the wringer - it's a book you won't want to put down until you've read to the end, but one that you really have to put down just to catch your breath, and when you're not reading it you'll still be thinking about it. It's very dark, emotional and hard hitting - these are very real and damaged people, whose lives draw you in so completely that you feel their pain, grief and joy and look on in horror at some of the decisions they make. The scenes from the childhoods of both Harmony and Will are heartbreaking, and the bullying theme is just one of many that is wonderfully handled.
I don't really have to say "I absolutely loved it", do I? If you haven't read this one, and you like your reading to take over your life and shake you to the core, give it a try.
This is a really gripping read, a book that puts your emotions through the wringer - it's a book you won't want to put down until you've read to the end, but one that you really have to put down just to catch your breath, and when you're not reading it you'll still be thinking about it. It's very dark, emotional and hard hitting - these are very real and damaged people, whose lives draw you in so completely that you feel their pain, grief and joy and look on in horror at some of the decisions they make. The scenes from the childhoods of both Harmony and Will are heartbreaking, and the bullying theme is just one of many that is wonderfully handled.
I don't really have to say "I absolutely loved it", do I? If you haven't read this one, and you like your reading to take over your life and shake you to the core, give it a try.
February 16, 2017
Dnf pg 40
September 7, 2014
Amazing writing. It took me longer to read than it should have done as I took a break in the middle. The story is pretty harrowing in places.
The writing is amazing and there are some excellent paragraphs and phrases that just grab you. A really good read.
"It's not about what I have to gain, it's that I don't have anything to lose"
The writing is amazing and there are some excellent paragraphs and phrases that just grab you. A really good read.
"It's not about what I have to gain, it's that I don't have anything to lose"
July 5, 2014
What a brilliant book. I loved the tension and the build up to the events of the past and how this affected the present. The big reveal was not disappointing and I liked the way the book discussed issues in detail and didn't skirt around the edges. The characters were believable and realistic.
June 24, 2016
A tangled mix of relationships, from parental, child friendship, marriage, loss...
Loss of so many aspects in life.
A multi layered storyline that kept me wanting to know the outcome, wonderfully descriptive and haunting.
This is the second book of Amanda Jennings I've read.
Loss of so many aspects in life.
A multi layered storyline that kept me wanting to know the outcome, wonderfully descriptive and haunting.
This is the second book of Amanda Jennings I've read.
October 24, 2015
good twists and turns. thought provoking
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