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Try Not to Breathe
An ex-cop sets out to find her missing sister and discovers the horrifying truth about her family...
A traumatic experience in the line of duty forces thirty-year-old Avery Rogers to abandon both her relationship and her position as a Kentucky State Police officer. She retreats to a college town where she works an unfulfilling job as a security guard, breaking up fights between drunken frat boys.
But a frantic phone call turns Avery’s life upside down. Her father—a retired cop who never fails to convey his disappointment in Avery—says her half sister is missing and in danger. Avery is sure Anna’s just crashing with friends, but her father strong-arms her into searching for the sister she barely knows.
Anna Rogers is fed up with her family—a half sister who resents her existence and a domineering father who thinks it’s okay for cops to shoot unarmed civilians. She hits the road to attend a protest against police brutality, unaware of the danger that awaits her there.
Just after catching a glimpse of Avery at the protest, Anna receives a shocking text. Now she’s no longer road-tripping; she’s running, pursued by an older sister she doesn’t trust and a violent stranger who has been stalking her for weeks.
When Avery discovers Anna’s hiding place near a remote cave system, she risks everything to save her. Little do the sisters know that the past is catching up with them—including the explosive secret at the very heart of the Rogers family.
A traumatic experience in the line of duty forces thirty-year-old Avery Rogers to abandon both her relationship and her position as a Kentucky State Police officer. She retreats to a college town where she works an unfulfilling job as a security guard, breaking up fights between drunken frat boys.
But a frantic phone call turns Avery’s life upside down. Her father—a retired cop who never fails to convey his disappointment in Avery—says her half sister is missing and in danger. Avery is sure Anna’s just crashing with friends, but her father strong-arms her into searching for the sister she barely knows.
Anna Rogers is fed up with her family—a half sister who resents her existence and a domineering father who thinks it’s okay for cops to shoot unarmed civilians. She hits the road to attend a protest against police brutality, unaware of the danger that awaits her there.
Just after catching a glimpse of Avery at the protest, Anna receives a shocking text. Now she’s no longer road-tripping; she’s running, pursued by an older sister she doesn’t trust and a violent stranger who has been stalking her for weeks.
When Avery discovers Anna’s hiding place near a remote cave system, she risks everything to save her. Little do the sisters know that the past is catching up with them—including the explosive secret at the very heart of the Rogers family.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2023
77 people are currently reading
10382 people want to read
About the author
David Bell
31 books2,278 followersDavid Bell is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning suspense novelist. His most recent thriller from Berkley/Penguin is KILL ALL YOUR DARLINGS. His previous novels include THE REQUEST, LAYOVER, SOMEBODY'S DAUGHTER, BRING HER HOME, SINCE SHE WENT AWAY, SOMEBODY I USED TO KNOW, THE FORGOTTEN GIRL, NEVER COME BACK, THE HIDING PLACE, and CEMETERY GIRL. He is currently a Professor of English at Western Kentucky University and can be reached via his website at www.davidbellnovels.com, on Twitter at Twitter.com/davidbellnovels, and on Facebook at Facebook.com/davidbellnovels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
July 14, 2023
3.25🌟
It’s been hit or miss for me with David Bell’s books in the past few years. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to file this in the miss column.
Avery is an ex police officer suffering with PTSD. The last thing she wants to do is chase down her younger sister Anna, (I think I have the names right!🤦🏻♀️) who went off the radar.
According to their father, a retired police officer, Avery is the most qualified one in the family for the job. (Lucky you, Avery!)
The sisters were never close and Avery doesn’t understand why her father is pushing her to go. Isn’t it totally possible Anna is just looking for some time away from her family! I think we all relate to that! Right!?💁🏻♀️
Unfortunately I never really connected with any of the characters in this book. The sisters, basically just rude, made it hard to care for them whatsoever. Also, the three sisters all had names beginning with the letter A (Anna, Avery and Alisha) and I kept mixing them up throughout.
The storyline itself was a bit too drawn out and at over 400 pages was just too much for this reader.
There are many four and five star reviews for this book so if this book has been on your radar be sure to have a peek at those reviews!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing via NetGalley
It’s been hit or miss for me with David Bell’s books in the past few years. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to file this in the miss column.
Avery is an ex police officer suffering with PTSD. The last thing she wants to do is chase down her younger sister Anna, (I think I have the names right!🤦🏻♀️) who went off the radar.
According to their father, a retired police officer, Avery is the most qualified one in the family for the job. (Lucky you, Avery!)
The sisters were never close and Avery doesn’t understand why her father is pushing her to go. Isn’t it totally possible Anna is just looking for some time away from her family! I think we all relate to that! Right!?💁🏻♀️
Unfortunately I never really connected with any of the characters in this book. The sisters, basically just rude, made it hard to care for them whatsoever. Also, the three sisters all had names beginning with the letter A (Anna, Avery and Alisha) and I kept mixing them up throughout.
The storyline itself was a bit too drawn out and at over 400 pages was just too much for this reader.
There are many four and five star reviews for this book so if this book has been on your radar be sure to have a peek at those reviews!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing via NetGalley
June 23, 2023
David Bell brings plenty of suspense and trepidation to his latest novel,
Try Not to Breathe
. Avery Rogers had a traumatic experience in the line of duty as a Kentucky State Police officer. She resigned her position and left her relationship with Hank. She’s now working as a college campus security officer to pay for graduate school. Her father Russell Rogers, a retired police captain injured in the line of duty, calls Avery saying her half-sister is missing and in danger. Anna is fed up with her family and decided to attend a police brutality protest, but danger is not far away from her. Avery thinks Anna is just out with friends, but eventually agrees to search for her.
The author clearly differentiates the personality traits of the two sisters as well as their middle sister, Alisha. They came to life and readers can easily intuit even their hidden, unspoken feelings. Anna is partying too much, staying out late, and failing in school. She is also fed up with half-sister Avery who resents her and their domineering father. What has thrown Anna into a downward spiral? Avery suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and is somewhat estranged from her family. She’s a strong, but vulnerable protagonist. Why has she seemingly abandoned her family? Besides the two sisters’ points of view, readers also get insight into the antagonists through one of their viewpoints. There’s more going on than is initially obvious.
The characterization, world building, and pacing were well-done in this novel. Set mainly in and around fictional Rydell, Kentucky, this riveting thriller has a deeply involved plot, some twists and turns, and an action-packed ending. However, I felt the beginning was a little slow and there was a need for some additional clarification on the ending. A few things were left unresolved.
The author brings suspense, action, and intense moments to this fast-paced novel that is full of a sense of urgency and prose that flows well. It’s thought-provoking as family relationships, aging parents, friendships, bullying, crimes, and more are explored.
Overall, this novel was engrossing and kept me on the edge of my seat. While this is only the second book that I have read by this author, I am looking forward to reading more of his thrillers. Those who enjoy crime thrillers with great world-building and flawed main characters dealing with timely contemporary issues will likely find this novel a winner.
Berkley Publishing Group and David Bell provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be June 27, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------------
My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
The author clearly differentiates the personality traits of the two sisters as well as their middle sister, Alisha. They came to life and readers can easily intuit even their hidden, unspoken feelings. Anna is partying too much, staying out late, and failing in school. She is also fed up with half-sister Avery who resents her and their domineering father. What has thrown Anna into a downward spiral? Avery suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and is somewhat estranged from her family. She’s a strong, but vulnerable protagonist. Why has she seemingly abandoned her family? Besides the two sisters’ points of view, readers also get insight into the antagonists through one of their viewpoints. There’s more going on than is initially obvious.
The characterization, world building, and pacing were well-done in this novel. Set mainly in and around fictional Rydell, Kentucky, this riveting thriller has a deeply involved plot, some twists and turns, and an action-packed ending. However, I felt the beginning was a little slow and there was a need for some additional clarification on the ending. A few things were left unresolved.
The author brings suspense, action, and intense moments to this fast-paced novel that is full of a sense of urgency and prose that flows well. It’s thought-provoking as family relationships, aging parents, friendships, bullying, crimes, and more are explored.
Overall, this novel was engrossing and kept me on the edge of my seat. While this is only the second book that I have read by this author, I am looking forward to reading more of his thrillers. Those who enjoy crime thrillers with great world-building and flawed main characters dealing with timely contemporary issues will likely find this novel a winner.
Berkley Publishing Group and David Bell provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be June 27, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------------
My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 27, 2023
Gripping, suspenseful, hard to put down and dripping with tension! David Bell has wowed me yet again with this riveting page turner that had me turning the pages not wanting to put this book down!
Avery Rogers was a police officer with the Kentucky State Police, but after frightening and traumatic experience in the line of duty, left her badge and job as a police officer behind. She is reluctant when her sister and father, a retired police officer, ask her to look for her younger sister, Anna, who is missing and in possible danger. Reluctantly she agrees....
Anna Rogers, a college student, decided to visit a friend and attend a protest police brutality. She knows her family does not approve and is not taking their calls. She has no idea why they are frantically trying to locate her.
When they see each other at the protest, neither Avery nor Anna realizes just how much both of their lives are about to change!
WOWZA!! This was a tense and gripping book that I did not want to put down. David Bell has crafted an interesting set of characters with intriguing back stories. Anna is a young adult; she has her own mind and does not want to be told what to do by her family. She clashes with her family and never felt accepted by her oldest sister Avery. Bell adeptly captures her feelings and emotions. Showing her trying to be her own person and stand on her own. Avery is suffering from PTSD and has always kept Anna at arm’s length, always making it known how she feels about Anna. Bell shows her inner turmoil, thoughts, and emotions. Their father is a retired police officer who was wounded in duty. He always stressed being safe and educating his children on the dangers in the world. I thought he did a fantastic job showing each character’s motivations, their secrets, and emotions.
The books went from tense to pulse pounding as the danger mounts. My heart was racing, and I was on the edge of my seat during the final chapters of the book. I could feel the characters’ anxiety and tension jumping off the pages. This book had a little bit of everything that I enjoy - family drama, family secrets, a mystery, an intriguing plot, suspense, and great characters.
As with Bell's other books, Try Not to Breathe is well written, well thought out and perfectly paced. He has created characters that I cared about and a captivating storyline that had me fully invested.
I can't wait to read what David Bell writes next!
Gripping, jaw dropping, pulse pounding, well written and perfectly paced!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Avery Rogers was a police officer with the Kentucky State Police, but after frightening and traumatic experience in the line of duty, left her badge and job as a police officer behind. She is reluctant when her sister and father, a retired police officer, ask her to look for her younger sister, Anna, who is missing and in possible danger. Reluctantly she agrees....
Anna Rogers, a college student, decided to visit a friend and attend a protest police brutality. She knows her family does not approve and is not taking their calls. She has no idea why they are frantically trying to locate her.
When they see each other at the protest, neither Avery nor Anna realizes just how much both of their lives are about to change!
WOWZA!! This was a tense and gripping book that I did not want to put down. David Bell has crafted an interesting set of characters with intriguing back stories. Anna is a young adult; she has her own mind and does not want to be told what to do by her family. She clashes with her family and never felt accepted by her oldest sister Avery. Bell adeptly captures her feelings and emotions. Showing her trying to be her own person and stand on her own. Avery is suffering from PTSD and has always kept Anna at arm’s length, always making it known how she feels about Anna. Bell shows her inner turmoil, thoughts, and emotions. Their father is a retired police officer who was wounded in duty. He always stressed being safe and educating his children on the dangers in the world. I thought he did a fantastic job showing each character’s motivations, their secrets, and emotions.
The books went from tense to pulse pounding as the danger mounts. My heart was racing, and I was on the edge of my seat during the final chapters of the book. I could feel the characters’ anxiety and tension jumping off the pages. This book had a little bit of everything that I enjoy - family drama, family secrets, a mystery, an intriguing plot, suspense, and great characters.
As with Bell's other books, Try Not to Breathe is well written, well thought out and perfectly paced. He has created characters that I cared about and a captivating storyline that had me fully invested.
I can't wait to read what David Bell writes next!
Gripping, jaw dropping, pulse pounding, well written and perfectly paced!
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
June 30, 2023
4.25/5
Well, it seems that David Bell has done it again! And by again, I mean a page-turner, hell of a ride full of mystery and pulse-pounding moments. Try Not to Breathe is basically everything I have come to expect from one of my favorite authors (Bell 😉), and the premise of an ex-cop setting out to find her 'missing' sister was right up my alley. There are several viewpoint switches to keep things interesting, and Bell decided to tackle multiple subjects that I wasn't expecting to find in these pages. I thought he would dig a little deeper into them than he did, but he certainly brought up a lot of current issues. I wouldn't say I completely loved this aspect just because I like my fiction to be more removed from reality, but I'm sure a lot of readers will appreciate them.
The audiobook gets an honorable mention thanks to our sole narrator Erin Spencer. It is very common for this author's audiobooks to only have one narrator and it's usually a man, but being as our main viewpoints here are girls, it made sense. I would have liked to see different narrators for the various viewpoints though, and Spencer's voice was a little too sweet for the cruder male POVs in my opinion. However, that is nothing against her though and her narration was spot on, especially for Avery and Anna. I could totally see this being made into a movie, and if it was, I would definitely watch it. If you are a fan of Bell, I don't see how you won't enjoy Try Not to Breathe, and I officially have a copy on my shelf!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Well, it seems that David Bell has done it again! And by again, I mean a page-turner, hell of a ride full of mystery and pulse-pounding moments. Try Not to Breathe is basically everything I have come to expect from one of my favorite authors (Bell 😉), and the premise of an ex-cop setting out to find her 'missing' sister was right up my alley. There are several viewpoint switches to keep things interesting, and Bell decided to tackle multiple subjects that I wasn't expecting to find in these pages. I thought he would dig a little deeper into them than he did, but he certainly brought up a lot of current issues. I wouldn't say I completely loved this aspect just because I like my fiction to be more removed from reality, but I'm sure a lot of readers will appreciate them.
The audiobook gets an honorable mention thanks to our sole narrator Erin Spencer. It is very common for this author's audiobooks to only have one narrator and it's usually a man, but being as our main viewpoints here are girls, it made sense. I would have liked to see different narrators for the various viewpoints though, and Spencer's voice was a little too sweet for the cruder male POVs in my opinion. However, that is nothing against her though and her narration was spot on, especially for Avery and Anna. I could totally see this being made into a movie, and if it was, I would definitely watch it. If you are a fan of Bell, I don't see how you won't enjoy Try Not to Breathe, and I officially have a copy on my shelf!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 28, 2023
I'm going to be the outlier on this one 😪 I think David Bell is a very good writer this story just wasn't for me 😪 The actions of the two sisters just drove me up the wall until I just didn't care about them 😨 the way they talked to everyone they came in to contact with just wasn't working for me. I will definitely be looking out for Davids next book because like I said I think he is a great writer. This book just wasn't for me. Everyone else loves it so definitely give it a try.
November 17, 2023
Avery Rogers, the heroine, is a former cop, who came close to getting herself killed, so she makes the decision to walk away. She lands a position at a college as a security guard. She of course feels safer; but her father, who is a former cop and I believe is two bricks short of a full load... constantly taunts her for leaving her job as a police officer. Avery is smart enough to remain distant from her parents, and her two sisters. Then Dad calls her telling her that Anna, her sister, has disappears from campus. Now we meet Anna Rogers, who is also distant from her family, and I bet you can guess why...Anna is fed up with her father, and throws her sister, Avery into the "I can't stand you", hat. Anna lives with a roommate at school, but she has left school to attend a protest against police brutality, unaware that someone is following her. For some reason that is strange to me considering all the hate running through this family, Avery agrees to try to find Anna...oh yeah...seems that Anna's roommate has been murdered, and we are told that Anna is unaware of this. At the Police Brutality protest, Avery sees Anna, and tries to persuade her to leave with her; but a former cop becomes involved, and everything falls apart, as the danger escalates, and people more are injured. A message arrives for Anna, and she goes off to meet someone that is going to tell her some "truths" and secrets about her life and her family. Of course, now Anna and Avery are both endangered. Is anyone at all surprised by this? The story went on and on like this until more than halfway through the book. I can't say that I didn't like the book, it just felt disjointed to me, and I had to keep going back to see if I had misread something and I can't say that I had any connection with, or concern for any of the characters. The chapters are short, which is a plus in this case.
February 22, 2023
...𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐮𝐭. 𝐎𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦, 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧.
After nearly dying in the line of duty, police officer Avery Rogers essentially walks away from her life, leaving her career and the boyfriend who saved her life. She chooses the anonymity of a college town where she works an unfulfilling yet safe job as a security guard, usually relegated to breaking up fights between drunken frat boys.
But one phone call changes everything. Her father, a respected retired police officer injured in the line of duty, says her half sister is missing and in danger. Avery is sure Anna is just enjoying her college experience and isn't concerned--after all, the two aren't close, but Avery's father guilts her into saying yes. Turns out Anna isn't enjoying her college experience. She's embarrassed that her father trained some officers who shot an unarmed civilian. She's tired of feeling like she doesn't belong, and she needs an outlet for her anger, so she attends a protest against police brutality. Turns out that she's caught the eye of some very dangerous people, and Anna will find herself in for the fight of her life.
There is A LOT going on in this book...aging parents, unfulfilled dreams, loss, family drama, and of course the whole police brutality issue. The themes of family and all that entails was beautifully done, but I would have liked a deeper exploration into the police brutality issues. It was mentioned several times, and the protest was a key event in the book, but it was almost an afterthought. However, the last 20% of the book was so thrilling and engaging that it made up for that minor flaw.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this early copy. TRY NOT TO BREATHE will publish June 27, 2023.
After nearly dying in the line of duty, police officer Avery Rogers essentially walks away from her life, leaving her career and the boyfriend who saved her life. She chooses the anonymity of a college town where she works an unfulfilling yet safe job as a security guard, usually relegated to breaking up fights between drunken frat boys.
But one phone call changes everything. Her father, a respected retired police officer injured in the line of duty, says her half sister is missing and in danger. Avery is sure Anna is just enjoying her college experience and isn't concerned--after all, the two aren't close, but Avery's father guilts her into saying yes. Turns out Anna isn't enjoying her college experience. She's embarrassed that her father trained some officers who shot an unarmed civilian. She's tired of feeling like she doesn't belong, and she needs an outlet for her anger, so she attends a protest against police brutality. Turns out that she's caught the eye of some very dangerous people, and Anna will find herself in for the fight of her life.
There is A LOT going on in this book...aging parents, unfulfilled dreams, loss, family drama, and of course the whole police brutality issue. The themes of family and all that entails was beautifully done, but I would have liked a deeper exploration into the police brutality issues. It was mentioned several times, and the protest was a key event in the book, but it was almost an afterthought. However, the last 20% of the book was so thrilling and engaging that it made up for that minor flaw.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this early copy. TRY NOT TO BREATHE will publish June 27, 2023.
June 25, 2023
Try Not to Breath by David Bell is a fast-paced, heart-stopping, complex thriller to find a murderer and save Anna Rogers before it's too late.
My Reading Experience:
I could not put this book down, and that's saying something, considering it's over 400 pages. I read this long into the night as I had to know the answers to all the questions that popped up as another piece of the puzzle was revealed. The twists, turns, secrets, and dangers make this story the ultimate thrill ride.
I also loved the family themes, which are so poignant and well-developed that my heart ached for the entire Rogers family. With health issues, miscommunications, and transition periods all descending on this family quickly, I wondered if there was enough love and fortitude to keep this family together, especially when they faced dangers that put them all at risk.
The story is well-written, tightly woven, and highly engaging from page one. The dialogue at the very beginning was strangely awkward, but afterward, it all flowed smoothly and authentically. Try Not to Breath is my ideal type of thriller in every regard – it has good character development, heart-wrenching family themes, a focused plot, and keeps my eyes on the page from beginning to end.
Characters:
Anna Rogers is the youngest daughter in the Rogers family. Her father is a retired chief of police (state police), and her mother is a homemaker and former legal professional. She also has two older sisters – Avery and Alicia – from her father's first marriage.
Anna is at that stage in life when she is driven by ideals and passionate about her beliefs. She is also trying to find her place in the adult world and is in a state of transition, not knowing which way to go – which path is for her.
Anna is not a very likable character, nor is her father. Still, the rest of the Rogers clan are highly relatable and either sympathetic or relatable. While I found Anna frustrating, I could sympathize with her older sister Avery who arguably holds the main character slot with Anna. She has been handed a bucketful of lemons in life, and all her responses to things are based on just trying to make sense of it all and to survive the best way she knows how.
Narration & Pacing:
The narration is 3rd person though I don't think I'd call it omniscient. The focus does jump around to different characters, and the reader is kept in the dark about many details until they are revealed as part of the plot. The narration lies somewhere between omniscient and limited because it is limited to quite a few characters (which technically would still be considered limited in any English classroom, but for purposes of my review, I'm trying to paint a more complete picture.)
The pacing is breakneck from beginning to end, even with all the story encompasses.
Setting:
The setting is Kentucky, and it works perfectly in this story. Different areas are utilized in just the right ways, from the city to a few small towns and even rural areas. The whole state plays a part in this story.
Read if you're in the mood for:
• A fast-paced thriller you won't be able to put down.
• A story that is adventurous, dark, emotional, mysterious, and tense
• Family themes that are heart-wrenching
My Reading Experience:
I could not put this book down, and that's saying something, considering it's over 400 pages. I read this long into the night as I had to know the answers to all the questions that popped up as another piece of the puzzle was revealed. The twists, turns, secrets, and dangers make this story the ultimate thrill ride.
I also loved the family themes, which are so poignant and well-developed that my heart ached for the entire Rogers family. With health issues, miscommunications, and transition periods all descending on this family quickly, I wondered if there was enough love and fortitude to keep this family together, especially when they faced dangers that put them all at risk.
The story is well-written, tightly woven, and highly engaging from page one. The dialogue at the very beginning was strangely awkward, but afterward, it all flowed smoothly and authentically. Try Not to Breath is my ideal type of thriller in every regard – it has good character development, heart-wrenching family themes, a focused plot, and keeps my eyes on the page from beginning to end.
Characters:
Anna Rogers is the youngest daughter in the Rogers family. Her father is a retired chief of police (state police), and her mother is a homemaker and former legal professional. She also has two older sisters – Avery and Alicia – from her father's first marriage.
Anna is at that stage in life when she is driven by ideals and passionate about her beliefs. She is also trying to find her place in the adult world and is in a state of transition, not knowing which way to go – which path is for her.
Anna is not a very likable character, nor is her father. Still, the rest of the Rogers clan are highly relatable and either sympathetic or relatable. While I found Anna frustrating, I could sympathize with her older sister Avery who arguably holds the main character slot with Anna. She has been handed a bucketful of lemons in life, and all her responses to things are based on just trying to make sense of it all and to survive the best way she knows how.
Narration & Pacing:
The narration is 3rd person though I don't think I'd call it omniscient. The focus does jump around to different characters, and the reader is kept in the dark about many details until they are revealed as part of the plot. The narration lies somewhere between omniscient and limited because it is limited to quite a few characters (which technically would still be considered limited in any English classroom, but for purposes of my review, I'm trying to paint a more complete picture.)
The pacing is breakneck from beginning to end, even with all the story encompasses.
Setting:
The setting is Kentucky, and it works perfectly in this story. Different areas are utilized in just the right ways, from the city to a few small towns and even rural areas. The whole state plays a part in this story.
Read if you're in the mood for:
• A fast-paced thriller you won't be able to put down.
• A story that is adventurous, dark, emotional, mysterious, and tense
• Family themes that are heart-wrenching
June 27, 2023
3.5/5
I’m a longtime fan of the author and will read anything he writes but something about this one felt a little off for me. It wasn’t the writing, that was as strong as it always is so I guess maybe it was the plot and pacing. I was interested in the story but it was such a slow burn that I did start to lose interest at some points. I think it was a little drawn out and could have maybe been wrapped up a little sooner but the way it ended was satisfying even if the route to get there took a long time. Not my favorite from the author but still a decent read.
I’m a longtime fan of the author and will read anything he writes but something about this one felt a little off for me. It wasn’t the writing, that was as strong as it always is so I guess maybe it was the plot and pacing. I was interested in the story but it was such a slow burn that I did start to lose interest at some points. I think it was a little drawn out and could have maybe been wrapped up a little sooner but the way it ended was satisfying even if the route to get there took a long time. Not my favorite from the author but still a decent read.
July 31, 2023
3.5⭐️ An ex-cop, a missing sister and lots of family secrets
I enjoyed this tense tale of family secrets. Told from multiple POVs I enjoyed how the story unfolded as one sister sought the truth and the other would do anything to find her sister. There was a lot going on here between the members of this family. While the plot was deeply involved, I felt the pacing slowed down at times. It was definitely more family drama than thriller but I enjoyed the moments of action. Another solid David Bell book, just not my favorite by him.
I enjoyed this tense tale of family secrets. Told from multiple POVs I enjoyed how the story unfolded as one sister sought the truth and the other would do anything to find her sister. There was a lot going on here between the members of this family. While the plot was deeply involved, I felt the pacing slowed down at times. It was definitely more family drama than thriller but I enjoyed the moments of action. Another solid David Bell book, just not my favorite by him.
December 27, 2023
An ex-cop looks for her missing sister. They don’t know about the family secrets people want to keep hidden.
Try Not to Breathe is told using multiple points of view. Avery and Anna are interesting characters. The story is well paced and intriguing.
A fast-paced and intense thriller full of family secrets. Readers who enjoyed David Bell’s other books are sure to enjoy this one too.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Try Not to Breathe is told using multiple points of view. Avery and Anna are interesting characters. The story is well paced and intriguing.
A fast-paced and intense thriller full of family secrets. Readers who enjoyed David Bell’s other books are sure to enjoy this one too.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2023
The book picked up speed towards the end. The end felt incomplete.
August 6, 2023
Unfortunately, this novel was a miss for me.
I usually enjoy Bell’s stories.
It was extremely slow going.
I may try to read it in the future to see if my timing is just off.
Please read other reviews & make your own decision on this book. You might like it.
Happy reading!
I usually enjoy Bell’s stories.
It was extremely slow going.
I may try to read it in the future to see if my timing is just off.
Please read other reviews & make your own decision on this book. You might like it.
Happy reading!
July 8, 2023
Summary: Anna Rogers feels a bit lost. After a couple of weeks of skipping classes, she is on the way to failing out of college. She nurses a number of resentments against her family – her father for being an overbearing retired police captain who micromanages her life, her older sister Avery for ignoring and abandoning her, and her mother Jane for allowing her father to always have the upper hand. The only sister she gets along with is Alisha, who frequently steps in to act as a parent to make up for the deficiencies of her actual parents. In an act of rebellion, Anna takes off for the weekend to visit her friend and attend a protest rally against police brutality. Her family, unable to reach her, believes she is missing and sends Avery after her with orders to bring her back home. But there are dark secrets in the Rogers family and old sins cast long shadows. Avery and Anna are unwittingly walking into deeper and deeper danger.
Thoughts: Like any David Bell novel, I was pulled into this one quickly by the interesting characters and lively pace. There were many concurrent themes in the novel – the complexities of second marriages and families; over-policing and police brutality; illegal immigrant labour and mistreatment; and sibling rivalry. Throughout the novel there was an undercurrent of toxic alpha-male energy in many of the characters, as seen in the retired Captain Rogers, the male police officers at the protest, and many of the men at the Coombs farm, a contrast to the kindness and generosity of characters like Charlie and Hank.
Needless to say, there was a lot happening in this novel and therefore a lot to process. However, the ending felt rather incomplete to me, as there were many loose ends for the reader to question and ponder. It occurred to me that this might have been Bell’s intention. I also found it interesting that when the novel began, all the focus was on Anna Rogers, whereas the remainder of the novel was focused on Avery Rogers. It felt as though I had started one novel and finished a different one, if that makes any sense at all. All that being said, I did enjoy the book, so thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House. A 3.5 rounded up to 4.
Thoughts: Like any David Bell novel, I was pulled into this one quickly by the interesting characters and lively pace. There were many concurrent themes in the novel – the complexities of second marriages and families; over-policing and police brutality; illegal immigrant labour and mistreatment; and sibling rivalry. Throughout the novel there was an undercurrent of toxic alpha-male energy in many of the characters, as seen in the retired Captain Rogers, the male police officers at the protest, and many of the men at the Coombs farm, a contrast to the kindness and generosity of characters like Charlie and Hank.
Needless to say, there was a lot happening in this novel and therefore a lot to process. However, the ending felt rather incomplete to me, as there were many loose ends for the reader to question and ponder. It occurred to me that this might have been Bell’s intention. I also found it interesting that when the novel began, all the focus was on Anna Rogers, whereas the remainder of the novel was focused on Avery Rogers. It felt as though I had started one novel and finished a different one, if that makes any sense at all. All that being said, I did enjoy the book, so thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House. A 3.5 rounded up to 4.
February 12, 2023
I see the potential with this book but overall I was underwhelmed. I never did care for any of the characters and they all had similar names which was confusing. I just found this story rather slow and hard to get into. It just wasn’t for me.
July 10, 2023
The majority of the characters are unlikable. The entire story line was frustrating. It seemed like every question was answered with a, “we will talk about this later.” It made the reading tedious.
January 12, 2026
Try Not to Breathe by David Bell is a psychological thriller about a rather dysfunctional family when one of the sisters goes missing.
This is a family drama with a kick. The three sisters have very different personalities, which is probably why they don't always see eye-to-eye. And with parents like theirs, it is little wonder. However, I didn't really like any of them. Anna was 20, and maybe that was her excuse for being rather selfish, running off without a word. Alisha was married with two children, and maybe she's a little busy, but she's the one trying to look after their aging parents. Avery was the eldest, and suffering from PTSD. But none of these reasons was a good enough one for their estrangement. The father was an abusive drinker, feeling sorry for himself, and the step-mother was showing signs of dementia (I think). They were a strange family that got stranger.
It may have started out a little slow, with a lot of characters to get your head around, but the pace did pick up. But I think it could have been so much better. There were only two suspenseful parts - the police protest, and the escape through the woods at night, and that was over 80% in.... In between, it was sort of "blah".
Overall, it wasn't a bad book, but it didn't live up to its potential. I may have been expecting more from this particular author, as he's been writing for a long time. However, this is only my opinion, and I may be in the minority on this (I don't read other reviews until after I have posted my own). Like I said, it isn't a bad book...so give it a shot.
For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
June 18, 2023
Fast Moving and Unrelenting Tension
SUMMARY
Anna Rogers is a drunk spiraling college student arriving home at two in the morning after a night partying. A man she doesn’t know and can barely see approaches her outside her door. She makes it inside just in time, but she is petrified because the man seems to know her name. Kayla, her roommate wants to call the police, particularly after receiving a text from Anna’s father, a retired chief of police, who is worried about his daughter not being in touch. Anna despises her parents and her two step-sisters and wants nothing more than to get away from them all.
Ana hits the road to crash with friends and attend a protest against police brutality. Little does she know that two people are pursuing her. One is indeed the stalker that had approached her the other night, and the other is her step-sister Avery who had been dispatched by their father to find her and bring her home safely.
Avery had also been in law enforcement at one time but stopped to go back to school after a traumatic near-drowning incident in the line of duty. She has no desire to go tracking down Anna, but after being coerced by their other sister, she acquiesces. Avery spots Anna at the protest which has gone violent, but is unable to get ahold of her. Anna takes off again after receiving some shocking news, and Avery soon tracks her down to a closely guarded compound in the middle of nowhere with lots of secrets inside. Avery wants nothing more than to leave Anna at the compound, but she also has begun to worry about Anna’s safety.
REVIEW
The writing in Try Not To Breathe is gut-wrenching and transports us into a harrowing chase to find Anna and get her back home safely. The story is fast-moving and filled with unrelenting tension and high drama. Author David Bell carefully peels away layer after layer to reveal an extraordinary ending that explores the shocking depths people will go to survive.
Author David Bell creates a robust cast of characters that include the family, Anna’s roommate and friends, Avery’s friends, police detectives, and a host of bad guys. Each character adds drama and suspense to the story, making for a skillfully executed plot.
Author David Bell is an Award winning suspense novelist, his most recent thriller is Kill All Your Darlings. He is currently a professor of English and Western Kentucky University.
Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Berkley
Published June 27, 2023
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
Anna Rogers is a drunk spiraling college student arriving home at two in the morning after a night partying. A man she doesn’t know and can barely see approaches her outside her door. She makes it inside just in time, but she is petrified because the man seems to know her name. Kayla, her roommate wants to call the police, particularly after receiving a text from Anna’s father, a retired chief of police, who is worried about his daughter not being in touch. Anna despises her parents and her two step-sisters and wants nothing more than to get away from them all.
Ana hits the road to crash with friends and attend a protest against police brutality. Little does she know that two people are pursuing her. One is indeed the stalker that had approached her the other night, and the other is her step-sister Avery who had been dispatched by their father to find her and bring her home safely.
Avery had also been in law enforcement at one time but stopped to go back to school after a traumatic near-drowning incident in the line of duty. She has no desire to go tracking down Anna, but after being coerced by their other sister, she acquiesces. Avery spots Anna at the protest which has gone violent, but is unable to get ahold of her. Anna takes off again after receiving some shocking news, and Avery soon tracks her down to a closely guarded compound in the middle of nowhere with lots of secrets inside. Avery wants nothing more than to leave Anna at the compound, but she also has begun to worry about Anna’s safety.
REVIEW
The writing in Try Not To Breathe is gut-wrenching and transports us into a harrowing chase to find Anna and get her back home safely. The story is fast-moving and filled with unrelenting tension and high drama. Author David Bell carefully peels away layer after layer to reveal an extraordinary ending that explores the shocking depths people will go to survive.
Author David Bell creates a robust cast of characters that include the family, Anna’s roommate and friends, Avery’s friends, police detectives, and a host of bad guys. Each character adds drama and suspense to the story, making for a skillfully executed plot.
Author David Bell is an Award winning suspense novelist, his most recent thriller is Kill All Your Darlings. He is currently a professor of English and Western Kentucky University.
Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for an advance reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher Berkley
Published June 27, 2023
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
July 3, 2023
Sister dynamics and family secrets in Try Not to Breath by David Bell.
"Avery Rogers left the Kentucky State Police after a water rescue went bad. Now she works campus security and feels like she's barely hanging on.
Anna Rogers is the sister that nobody wanted. She ditches class to head to a protest march. She has no idea of the danger she's in.
Avery gets a call to find her younger sister but loses track of her after the protest turns to chaos. She tracks her to a remote farm. But family secrets have a way of not staying secret..."
This is an entertaining read from Bell. It's full of complicated family dynamics. A superb twist at the end. Some unexpected revelations. And of course - the secrets - so many secrets. No character wants to bring up the past - because then they would have to answer for their decisions.
Bell uses current events to wrap his story in. Plenty of unlikable characters to choose from but also some to cheer for. A messy ending but I like it.
Some good fiction to add to your summer reading list.
"Avery Rogers left the Kentucky State Police after a water rescue went bad. Now she works campus security and feels like she's barely hanging on.
Anna Rogers is the sister that nobody wanted. She ditches class to head to a protest march. She has no idea of the danger she's in.
Avery gets a call to find her younger sister but loses track of her after the protest turns to chaos. She tracks her to a remote farm. But family secrets have a way of not staying secret..."
This is an entertaining read from Bell. It's full of complicated family dynamics. A superb twist at the end. Some unexpected revelations. And of course - the secrets - so many secrets. No character wants to bring up the past - because then they would have to answer for their decisions.
Bell uses current events to wrap his story in. Plenty of unlikable characters to choose from but also some to cheer for. A messy ending but I like it.
Some good fiction to add to your summer reading list.
October 1, 2023
I love David Bell’s books but unfortunately this one was a bit of a miss for me. It took a long time to get going, almost halfway through. Once it did I was into it until it took another odd turn that was not additive and I thought the ending was just ok. I don’t want to deter anyone though as I am definitely in the minority here with my thoughts on this one.
Thank you to Berkley for the digital copy to review.
Thank you to Berkley for the digital copy to review.
July 13, 2023
Do you have an author where as soon as their book is released you buy it, not even caring what its about? Well, David Bell is one of those authors for me. And this book did not disappoint. I love his stories, straight to the point and spell binding. We follow 2 sisters and a step sister in this book....all named with an A....Avery, Anna and Alisha. They come from a father who is a retired cop....and soon they find out all is not as it seems.
I am not a fan of those ancestry DNA kits to find your relatives past.....but this story was scary when Anna takes one and finds her family is not really her family. Things get hairy the further you go into the book, with a few twists and turns and an amazing ending.
Great book, great author.
I am not a fan of those ancestry DNA kits to find your relatives past.....but this story was scary when Anna takes one and finds her family is not really her family. Things get hairy the further you go into the book, with a few twists and turns and an amazing ending.
Great book, great author.
July 13, 2023
I have loved all the books I have read by David Bell and this one is another I've added to the list. This mystery was so engrossing, I managed to zoom through it in such a quick time. With dual POV's, I loved hearing each sister's own perspectives. Highly recommend this action packed novel.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 26, 2024
This would be an excellent book club read! I thoroughly enjoyed the plot line and twists along the way with this book.
July 1, 2023
Try Not To Breathe
3.5 stars rounded up to 4!
For David Bell’s newest thriller, I did a combination of listening to the audiobook and reading the ebook. Both are well done but with only having one narrator made the audiobook a bit confusing to follow.
The main characters are sister Anna and Avery. Anna is the protagonist and as she is only 20, parts of the thriller seemed very YA/New Adult. Her decisions felt very immature but I think would appeal to younger audiences.
The pacing of the novel is excellent and is what kept me engaged. To be honest, the story is pretty convoluted. We are following an ex-cop who is trying to find her half-sister who is anti cop at the request of her retired cop father. See what I mean?
The big “reveal” wasn’t too much of a bombshell, however the final review in the last chapter made my jaw drop. Kudos to the author to keeping the action going until the bitter end. To thriller readers who enjoy complex family dynamics- check out Try Not To Breathe!
3.5 stars rounded up to 4!
For David Bell’s newest thriller, I did a combination of listening to the audiobook and reading the ebook. Both are well done but with only having one narrator made the audiobook a bit confusing to follow.
The main characters are sister Anna and Avery. Anna is the protagonist and as she is only 20, parts of the thriller seemed very YA/New Adult. Her decisions felt very immature but I think would appeal to younger audiences.
The pacing of the novel is excellent and is what kept me engaged. To be honest, the story is pretty convoluted. We are following an ex-cop who is trying to find her half-sister who is anti cop at the request of her retired cop father. See what I mean?
The big “reveal” wasn’t too much of a bombshell, however the final review in the last chapter made my jaw drop. Kudos to the author to keeping the action going until the bitter end. To thriller readers who enjoy complex family dynamics- check out Try Not To Breathe!
July 11, 2023
Thank you to @berkleypub @netgalley @letstalkbookspromo for the #gifted copy of the book! I enjoyed this #buddyread
Try Not to Breathe by David Bell
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: @berkleypub
Pub Date: June 27, 2023
This book was hard to put down. It was twisty and suspenseful.
Avery Rogers is an ex-cop who grew up with a father who was a cop. Her family has been full of drama over the years with her dad remarrying and having another kid, Anna. Because of that Avery isn't super close to her parents, but she is close with her older sister, Alisha. When Anna goes missing, Avery is the one to try to find her. There are bones in the closet that no one seems to want dug up, but Avery is determined to figure it out no matter the risk.
This is the first book by David Bell I have read and I can't wait to read more!
Try Not to Breathe by David Bell
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: @berkleypub
Pub Date: June 27, 2023
This book was hard to put down. It was twisty and suspenseful.
Avery Rogers is an ex-cop who grew up with a father who was a cop. Her family has been full of drama over the years with her dad remarrying and having another kid, Anna. Because of that Avery isn't super close to her parents, but she is close with her older sister, Alisha. When Anna goes missing, Avery is the one to try to find her. There are bones in the closet that no one seems to want dug up, but Avery is determined to figure it out no matter the risk.
This is the first book by David Bell I have read and I can't wait to read more!
May 10, 2023
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
This book was an easy read, good storyline, and a good way to spend the afternoon. There was a twist at the end that is unexpected, but it did not take away from the story. Character development and writing were good. I gave it 3 stars because it is kind of a cookie cutter book, you know the ending before it arrives. A good book for a lazy afternoon with a cup of tea, a roaring fire, and a snowstorm outside your window.
This book was an easy read, good storyline, and a good way to spend the afternoon. There was a twist at the end that is unexpected, but it did not take away from the story. Character development and writing were good. I gave it 3 stars because it is kind of a cookie cutter book, you know the ending before it arrives. A good book for a lazy afternoon with a cup of tea, a roaring fire, and a snowstorm outside your window.
August 24, 2023
this was like…fine. not good not bad. just fine.
July 15, 2023
Anna Rogers returns home to the apartment she shares with her college roommate after being overserved. She is aware enough, however, of the allegations that a man known as the Midnight Rambler has been terrorizing the neighborhood and breaking into apartments. As she approaches her building, a man steps directly out of the shadows calling her by name and follows her up to her door. Anna is able to get inside before he reaches her and informs her roommate Kayla of the situation but insists they not call the police.
On the same campus, 30-year-old campus security officer Avery Rogers is having difficulty breaking up a rowdy Fraternity fight and is quickly outnumbered. She needs the local P.D. to intervene and save the day. Ironic, as Avery is an ex-Kentucky State Police Officer just as he retired ex-Captain father was. Her service ended when she nearly drowned during a tragic case and had to be rescued by a colleague. Her father never let her live down the fact that she walked away from the KSP.
Anna and Avery are half-sisters and part of a very disjointed family that rarely connects. Avery and her younger sister Alisha are from their father’s first marriage and he split from their mother who later passed away in Florida from illness. Dad, Russ Rogers, is married to his second wife, Jane, who he was having an affair with when his first marriage ended, and they have one daughter --- Anna. As the sisters got older they grew further apart and Avery could never even bring herself to refer to Anna as a sister, even claiming to people that she was adopted.
All of this family dysfunction is at the heart of the tense new psychological thriller from author David Bell. He has many more surprises in store for the reader as what begins as a tale of mere dysfunction will soon lead to a Pandora’s Box of secrets that will threaten all of their lives forever. Alisha reaches out to Avery on behalf of their parents to look in on Anna. Not only are they worried about this Midnight Rambler business but she is not responding to anyone’s calls and her roommate Kayla indicates to Alisha that Anna took off on a trip up north supposedly to visit a friend in Louisville.
Avery relents and goes to Anna’s apartment to check on her only to find her half-sister missing. That is not the only discovery she makes as she also comes across the lifeless body of Kayla, an apparent strangling victim. Now, Avery’s police instincts kick in as she realizes this could be the Midnight Rambler, who had not gotten physical up to this point, or someone else who may have been targeting Anna with Kayla being murdered in her place. Either way, Avery knows she must go after her sister in Louisville where they believe she may be intending to participate in an anti-police rally over the recent death of a minority youth while in KSP custody.
Needing help, and not willing to work with her father even if he was presently an invalid, she reaches out to her dad’s old partner Charlie Ballard and the two of them get on the trail of Anna beginning with a road trip to Louisville. Avery has always had some suspicion that her father and step-mother were holding something back pertaining to Anna and she is about to find out about that in traumatic fashion. Anna and Avery finally come together, briefly, as the police are raiding the rally and Avery is dragged off to the paddy wagon before she can get near Anna. However, the violence that erupted at the event frightened Anna to the point where she is looking for somewhere to escape it all. When she is approached by a stranger who seems to know her well, she leaves the event with him to get answers he claims to have for her about her own past.
Avery is released, but soon after her partner and surrogate father Charlie succumbs to heart failure. He is able to hand her a note in the hospital just before he passes that reads: Rydell Combs Family Russ Jane and then the word ‘Don’t’ crossed out. Avery knows she will not get any answers from her father but now has the direction to take her personal mission to rescue Anna. The Combs family are legendary in Kentucky for growing and dealing in marijuana as well as a long history of violence. For some reason, Avery feels her family is somehow mixed up with the Combs’ in some way.
The final third of TRY NOT TO BREATHE steers a completely new direction and opens up that box of secrets amidst a sinister background of violence and fear which could cost both Avery and Anna their lives. David Ball plots this story well and the chilling finale is one that will have the readers catching their own breath until the dust settles. Bell proves once again why he is one of the best thriller writers out there.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
On the same campus, 30-year-old campus security officer Avery Rogers is having difficulty breaking up a rowdy Fraternity fight and is quickly outnumbered. She needs the local P.D. to intervene and save the day. Ironic, as Avery is an ex-Kentucky State Police Officer just as he retired ex-Captain father was. Her service ended when she nearly drowned during a tragic case and had to be rescued by a colleague. Her father never let her live down the fact that she walked away from the KSP.
Anna and Avery are half-sisters and part of a very disjointed family that rarely connects. Avery and her younger sister Alisha are from their father’s first marriage and he split from their mother who later passed away in Florida from illness. Dad, Russ Rogers, is married to his second wife, Jane, who he was having an affair with when his first marriage ended, and they have one daughter --- Anna. As the sisters got older they grew further apart and Avery could never even bring herself to refer to Anna as a sister, even claiming to people that she was adopted.
All of this family dysfunction is at the heart of the tense new psychological thriller from author David Bell. He has many more surprises in store for the reader as what begins as a tale of mere dysfunction will soon lead to a Pandora’s Box of secrets that will threaten all of their lives forever. Alisha reaches out to Avery on behalf of their parents to look in on Anna. Not only are they worried about this Midnight Rambler business but she is not responding to anyone’s calls and her roommate Kayla indicates to Alisha that Anna took off on a trip up north supposedly to visit a friend in Louisville.
Avery relents and goes to Anna’s apartment to check on her only to find her half-sister missing. That is not the only discovery she makes as she also comes across the lifeless body of Kayla, an apparent strangling victim. Now, Avery’s police instincts kick in as she realizes this could be the Midnight Rambler, who had not gotten physical up to this point, or someone else who may have been targeting Anna with Kayla being murdered in her place. Either way, Avery knows she must go after her sister in Louisville where they believe she may be intending to participate in an anti-police rally over the recent death of a minority youth while in KSP custody.
Needing help, and not willing to work with her father even if he was presently an invalid, she reaches out to her dad’s old partner Charlie Ballard and the two of them get on the trail of Anna beginning with a road trip to Louisville. Avery has always had some suspicion that her father and step-mother were holding something back pertaining to Anna and she is about to find out about that in traumatic fashion. Anna and Avery finally come together, briefly, as the police are raiding the rally and Avery is dragged off to the paddy wagon before she can get near Anna. However, the violence that erupted at the event frightened Anna to the point where she is looking for somewhere to escape it all. When she is approached by a stranger who seems to know her well, she leaves the event with him to get answers he claims to have for her about her own past.
Avery is released, but soon after her partner and surrogate father Charlie succumbs to heart failure. He is able to hand her a note in the hospital just before he passes that reads: Rydell Combs Family Russ Jane and then the word ‘Don’t’ crossed out. Avery knows she will not get any answers from her father but now has the direction to take her personal mission to rescue Anna. The Combs family are legendary in Kentucky for growing and dealing in marijuana as well as a long history of violence. For some reason, Avery feels her family is somehow mixed up with the Combs’ in some way.
The final third of TRY NOT TO BREATHE steers a completely new direction and opens up that box of secrets amidst a sinister background of violence and fear which could cost both Avery and Anna their lives. David Ball plots this story well and the chilling finale is one that will have the readers catching their own breath until the dust settles. Bell proves once again why he is one of the best thriller writers out there.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
June 27, 2023
This book is filled with suspense and realistic details about family relationships. Avery is working as a campus policeman but not feeling too great about it when her father (an ex-cop) insists that she give up her job and go find her younger sister Anna. Their father is convinced that Anna is in danger and that only Avery can help her, so Avery does as he says. The book was interesting from the very beginning but ramped up its intensity and pace once Avery started looking for Anna. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but the events in this book came at me fast and furiously…with a lot of twists and red herrings and unexpected occurrences. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters who were getting to know secrets about themselves and their lives. I also liked the hard-driving pace that did not ever let up, keeping me wrapped up in the plot and its topics of family, secrets, and danger in strange places. This is a commentary on police action and a thriller about consequences for past choices. The chapters are mostly short and quick to read and even though the book is long, my time with it just flew by. The book was hard to put down, drawing me to continue reading and find out what would happen to the two sisters and how their dilemmas were related to the past and the present. Absorbing, engrossing and totally captivating book!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
July 10, 2023
CW: homicide, violence, death (not by homicide), police brutality
I devoured this one in a matter of 72 hours, then I had to take about a week off just to gather my thoughts as I had a little bit of a book hangover. Even though it felt really long at over 400 pages, I just couldn’t put it down or get it out of my head. It was so suspenseful and well-written, I felt like a very vivid movie was being played in my head. The character development was great and the dual POVs were nicely done. The story was creative and enjoyable. I would identify it as suspense/mystery with police procedural tones. I rate this overall at 4.5/5 stars.
The title and the cover though… I still don’t think I fully really understand why the title is what it is and how it connects to the plot. I have a guess as it rates to one of the MCs fear of swimming. But I feel like maybe I missed something? I like it when titles are more clearly tied to the book. As for the cover, it’s chilling and intriguing and one of the things that immediately drew me to this book in the first place but the cave/woods doesn’t come until so close to the ending and has such a small role, I’m not sure it really fits. I spent almost the whole book wondering when we’d get to the cave the cover depicts.
This was my first book by David Bell but I look forward to reading more from him in the future.
Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing, David, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this title!
I devoured this one in a matter of 72 hours, then I had to take about a week off just to gather my thoughts as I had a little bit of a book hangover. Even though it felt really long at over 400 pages, I just couldn’t put it down or get it out of my head. It was so suspenseful and well-written, I felt like a very vivid movie was being played in my head. The character development was great and the dual POVs were nicely done. The story was creative and enjoyable. I would identify it as suspense/mystery with police procedural tones. I rate this overall at 4.5/5 stars.
The title and the cover though… I still don’t think I fully really understand why the title is what it is and how it connects to the plot. I have a guess as it rates to one of the MCs fear of swimming. But I feel like maybe I missed something? I like it when titles are more clearly tied to the book. As for the cover, it’s chilling and intriguing and one of the things that immediately drew me to this book in the first place but the cave/woods doesn’t come until so close to the ending and has such a small role, I’m not sure it really fits. I spent almost the whole book wondering when we’d get to the cave the cover depicts.
This was my first book by David Bell but I look forward to reading more from him in the future.
Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing, David, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this title!
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