What do you think?
Rate this book
Forced Perspective
In Alyssa Richards’s break-out new novel, a woman who trusts no one has to believe someone—but a shocking finale will turn everything upside down.
After running from her past for so long, Harper Brown is finally in a good place. She’s renovating a beautiful old home in Savannah, has lined up a dream job appraising Civil War antiquities, and is falling in love with the debonair Nick Chamberlain. Most importantly, her anxiety and paranoia are finally under control. But when she sees a vision of her sister shrouded in fog in the square across the street, Harper’s carefully assembled life begins to crumble.
It’s time. The warning has Harper questioning everything Nick tells her. He does seem to be rushing their engagement. Digging deeper reveals a decade-old murder and an ex-wife in a coma after falling down a grand staircase. But was it an accident as he claims, or was she pushed? And what does the cryptic note wedged in Harper’s window mean?
As more “accidents” happen, Harper doesn’t know who to trust—including herself. She’s convinced the past has caught up with her, that someone knows she’s not Harper Brown, and that she’s the next to die.
Blending classic Mary Higgins Clark and Alfred Hitchcock with the rich Gothic atmosphere of Savannah, Forced Perspective is psychological suspense at its page-turning best!
After running from her past for so long, Harper Brown is finally in a good place. She’s renovating a beautiful old home in Savannah, has lined up a dream job appraising Civil War antiquities, and is falling in love with the debonair Nick Chamberlain. Most importantly, her anxiety and paranoia are finally under control. But when she sees a vision of her sister shrouded in fog in the square across the street, Harper’s carefully assembled life begins to crumble.
It’s time. The warning has Harper questioning everything Nick tells her. He does seem to be rushing their engagement. Digging deeper reveals a decade-old murder and an ex-wife in a coma after falling down a grand staircase. But was it an accident as he claims, or was she pushed? And what does the cryptic note wedged in Harper’s window mean?
As more “accidents” happen, Harper doesn’t know who to trust—including herself. She’s convinced the past has caught up with her, that someone knows she’s not Harper Brown, and that she’s the next to die.
Blending classic Mary Higgins Clark and Alfred Hitchcock with the rich Gothic atmosphere of Savannah, Forced Perspective is psychological suspense at its page-turning best!
ebook
Published August 1, 2022
About the author
Alyssa Richards
12 books111 followersAlyssa Richards is the USA TODAY Best Selling author of mystery, thriller and suspense novels.
She loves living in the South with her husband and two children. She also loves good espresso, her rescue dogs, magnolias and gardenias, and, of course, reading a great book. She grew up running barefoot in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, where her favorite weekly adventure was a trip to the library with her mom.
She loves living in the South with her husband and two children. She also loves good espresso, her rescue dogs, magnolias and gardenias, and, of course, reading a great book. She grew up running barefoot in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, where her favorite weekly adventure was a trip to the library with her mom.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 27, 2022
Author: Alyssa Richards
Published: 08/01/22
Genre: Domestic Suspense
I was lucky to see an appeal by the author seeking E-Book readers to review her novel on a GoodReads Group site. I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and am giving Forced Perspectives 4.5 stars. Please note, I am not rounding up due to the scriptures given. While they worked for me in this story, I am not a theologian. Thus I'm leaving 0.5 stars off in an effort for you to decide for yourself. I do believe it is better to be safe than sorry.
In addition, I was dumbfounded around 30% that so few people have read this. A respected GoodReads friend stated it was the mentioning of ghosts that prevented her from picking it up. I absolutely understand, I have a few key words myself that I stay and shy away from with regards to books. Ghosts are defined as the soul or the spirit of a dead person (or animal). With that defined, there are a few instances where a ghost appears with a message or directions. The apparitions do move the story along. If this is bothersome to you, this book was written for someone else.
I am a reader and humbly ask Richards to understand my words cannot express how thrilled I was with a suspenseful story, no swearing, and hard subject matter tastefully written. Somewhere I confused break out novel for debut, the author has several books, I found out wanting to follow her. ( No clue on what a break out novel actually is.) I absolutely enjoyed this. I was not able to read in one sitting, I had to let things resonate, and I love books like this.
As for the story, it is on from the beginning. I am not spoiling. There are several pivotal points throughout. My concern in the beginning were the names. There are a lot of characters, each are developed to the degree that they need to be. They are scattered in their entry with most present at the end. The story feels like an onion, it has multiple layers that are seamlessly placed, and well-written. I was getting a little antsy around the 80% mark, however, I was completely satisfied at 100%.
Trigger warnings. If you are bothered by social services news stories or child abuse, this is not for you. This is not graphic.
I would gift this.
Published: 08/01/22
Genre: Domestic Suspense
I was lucky to see an appeal by the author seeking E-Book readers to review her novel on a GoodReads Group site. I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and am giving Forced Perspectives 4.5 stars. Please note, I am not rounding up due to the scriptures given. While they worked for me in this story, I am not a theologian. Thus I'm leaving 0.5 stars off in an effort for you to decide for yourself. I do believe it is better to be safe than sorry.
In addition, I was dumbfounded around 30% that so few people have read this. A respected GoodReads friend stated it was the mentioning of ghosts that prevented her from picking it up. I absolutely understand, I have a few key words myself that I stay and shy away from with regards to books. Ghosts are defined as the soul or the spirit of a dead person (or animal). With that defined, there are a few instances where a ghost appears with a message or directions. The apparitions do move the story along. If this is bothersome to you, this book was written for someone else.
I am a reader and humbly ask Richards to understand my words cannot express how thrilled I was with a suspenseful story, no swearing, and hard subject matter tastefully written. Somewhere I confused break out novel for debut, the author has several books, I found out wanting to follow her. ( No clue on what a break out novel actually is.) I absolutely enjoyed this. I was not able to read in one sitting, I had to let things resonate, and I love books like this.
As for the story, it is on from the beginning. I am not spoiling. There are several pivotal points throughout. My concern in the beginning were the names. There are a lot of characters, each are developed to the degree that they need to be. They are scattered in their entry with most present at the end. The story feels like an onion, it has multiple layers that are seamlessly placed, and well-written. I was getting a little antsy around the 80% mark, however, I was completely satisfied at 100%.
Trigger warnings. If you are bothered by social services news stories or child abuse, this is not for you. This is not graphic.
I would gift this.
August 1, 2022
I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this book but I knew I wanted to try it and I’m happy I did. Harper thinks she finally has a handle on things after the tragedy that killed her twin sister but when she’s seeing her ghost everything goes haywire and all those emotions come flooding back tenfold and Harpers determined to find out what her sister is trying to tell her!! Loved it
August 16, 2022
"Forced Perspective" is a very accurate title for this astounding novel of suspense, as everything you think you know and understand is skewed and definitely not from the right perspective. I don't think I've read such an intriguing and unique story in a long time. Right from the start, you're thrust into Harper's life of lies, with hidden terrors all around. The setting was fantastic and the ghostly vibe of Savannah, with it's mist-shrouded streets and ghosts, added just the right touch of otherworldly mystery. This author excels and it's almost impossible to think that she can get much better, but this book proves that she's a master of the craft and only continues to improve with each explosive and compelling tale.
***I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is strictly voluntary.***
***I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is strictly voluntary.***
July 29, 2022
This is terror unlimited! The author has torn into the mystery and intrigue. Don't trust anyone, believe nothing they say. The past is coming forward and Harper is in the middle of it. After her sister died in a boating accident that Harper was driving the boat many years ago, Harper is now seeing her twin sister 's ghost. But what is she trying to show Harper? This book will keep you on the edge of your seat!
July 29, 2022
This was a very good book and the first I’ve read of the author and look forward to more. The characters where well written and the storyline was incredible. The entire book had you wondering who really was the bad guy. Of couse, I was surprised in the end which makes the book even better. I love mystery/thriller books and this fit just perfect in that category. Great read!
August 5, 2022
Things are not as they seem.
Years after her abduction along with her twin sister Catherine who died during their escape, Harper is finally doing what she loves and living in Savannah renovating a beautiful old house. However things start to change when she sees the ghost of her twin. The story will keep you wondering and the ending will surprise you.
Years after her abduction along with her twin sister Catherine who died during their escape, Harper is finally doing what she loves and living in Savannah renovating a beautiful old house. However things start to change when she sees the ghost of her twin. The story will keep you wondering and the ending will surprise you.
July 27, 2022
I really like this book by Alyssa Richards! The suspense was off the charts. Everytime I thought I figured things out, another twist was thrown in. I enjoyed the main character Harper. She displayed both strength and vulnerability at the same time. There were quite a few characters to keep track of, but the storyline all tied together in the end. I look forward to reading more from this author.
August 4, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review
August 21, 2022
Her life has not been good but it is finally going in the right way and she may even find love at long last. Things are going to change when her sister ghost appears. What is going to happen now? Will she have a better life? How will she cope with this twist? See just how it will all go
August 24, 2022
An intriguing story that will have you binge reading. Harper finally has her life in a good place. Unfortunately things are happening that make her doubt everything and everyone. Suspense all the way to the last page. Don’t miss out.
August 8, 2022
This compelling PG15 contemporary mafia suspense romance kept me up past my bedtime two nights in a row in order to finish it. I had an ARC via Bookfunel and this is my voluntary review.
July 19, 2022
Wow! I believe this is Alyssa's best book to date. The suspense was woven well into the story. The mystery kept me turning the pages. Great characters and a wild ride of a plot. Great job!
February 14, 2024
If you enjoy books that make you feel like you're watching a soap opera with a hint of mystery and detective work, this is your book. Every time you think you know who the killer is, you just might be wrong. It was incredibly easy to get lost in the reading and go way ahead than intended. Had very good plot twists as well as interesting subplots to keep you reading.
My only reason for not giving the last star is because of two opinions:
1. the final revelation of the father and daughter's past in my opinion was unnecessary. it was already pretty understandable why the daughter had a rocky relationship with her father and I think that just kind of added more background that wasn't really needed. definitely felt like kind of a stretch as well as a way to just add in a chapter.
2. the final plot twist revealing the main character's real identity was really good but in my opinion was not quite explained enough. I get that it was supposed to be a shocking twist, and although it did shock me, I ended up more so confused about why she switched identities? Seemed like it could have been a good idea if it maybe was worked into a little more in the book rather than just thrown at you in the last two pages.
All in all it is definitely a great book that. Although I probably wouldn't read again only because the mystery is gone, I would definitely recommend to new readers.
My only reason for not giving the last star is because of two opinions:
1. the final revelation of the father and daughter's past in my opinion was unnecessary. it was already pretty understandable why the daughter had a rocky relationship with her father and I think that just kind of added more background that wasn't really needed. definitely felt like kind of a stretch as well as a way to just add in a chapter.
2. the final plot twist revealing the main character's real identity was really good but in my opinion was not quite explained enough. I get that it was supposed to be a shocking twist, and although it did shock me, I ended up more so confused about why she switched identities? Seemed like it could have been a good idea if it maybe was worked into a little more in the book rather than just thrown at you in the last two pages.
All in all it is definitely a great book that. Although I probably wouldn't read again only because the mystery is gone, I would definitely recommend to new readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2022
SO GOOD…
I just finished FORCED PERSPECTIVE.
OMG ITS AMAZING!
It was so tense and suspenseful for several chapters that I had to take breaks from reading it so that my insides could calm down. Wow what phenomenal writing!
It kept me on the edge of my seat!
The twist at the end was SO GOOD!
JUST WOW!
Alissa is AMAZING!
GOOD JOB!
GREAT WRITING!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
I just finished FORCED PERSPECTIVE.
OMG ITS AMAZING!
It was so tense and suspenseful for several chapters that I had to take breaks from reading it so that my insides could calm down. Wow what phenomenal writing!
It kept me on the edge of my seat!
The twist at the end was SO GOOD!
JUST WOW!
Alissa is AMAZING!
GOOD JOB!
GREAT WRITING!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 2, 2022
This book is my first read from this author, and it’s practically flawless. The writing is well-executed, page-turning, tense but also balanced and immersive. The story follows a few different characters tied together by a drug cartel and child abductions from twenty years earlier. Harper is really the stars of the story, but each character we spend time with, whether it’s one of the victims still traumatized by that past, or a detective from the case, is unique. Strong defining characteristics. Flaws and strengths, personal hurdles to overcome, great forward momentum and agency. The writing is top notch. Editing is good. Everything is thrilling and edge-of-seat tense. Lots of twists.
I was uncomfortable with some of the clichéd stereotyping, which came up once or twice, and I wanted a breather in some parts of the story—there’s a lot of violence. I also felt some of the delivery was awkward, like when Harper first gets a scrap from her broken window and doesn’t look at it right away and almost forgets it. I must have reread those pages five times because I was so certain I missed where she opened the scrap, in that tense moment, to read it. But she forgot about the scrap until a few pages later, and that stuck out.
This is a solid four star read, and if those things above don’t bother you, then you’ll find it five stars, no problem.
I was uncomfortable with some of the clichéd stereotyping, which came up once or twice, and I wanted a breather in some parts of the story—there’s a lot of violence. I also felt some of the delivery was awkward, like when Harper first gets a scrap from her broken window and doesn’t look at it right away and almost forgets it. I must have reread those pages five times because I was so certain I missed where she opened the scrap, in that tense moment, to read it. But she forgot about the scrap until a few pages later, and that stuck out.
This is a solid four star read, and if those things above don’t bother you, then you’ll find it five stars, no problem.
November 28, 2022
Independent Reviewer for Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
I was hooked from the get-go. This is part of the Chasing Secrets series but, as far as I can tell, you don't have to read both. I think they are stand-alone.
Harper has been on the run for a long time, hiding her identity to stay safe from the drug cartel she was kidnapped by when she was younger. I don't want to say too much as I feel it would take away from the suspense that the story gives. It is so cleverly written, I found myself being pulled so far in that I was getting anxious that things wouldn't be fixed.
It is a recommendation by me. A fantastic mystery that keeps you on your toes.
I was hooked from the get-go. This is part of the Chasing Secrets series but, as far as I can tell, you don't have to read both. I think they are stand-alone.
Harper has been on the run for a long time, hiding her identity to stay safe from the drug cartel she was kidnapped by when she was younger. I don't want to say too much as I feel it would take away from the suspense that the story gives. It is so cleverly written, I found myself being pulled so far in that I was getting anxious that things wouldn't be fixed.
It is a recommendation by me. A fantastic mystery that keeps you on your toes.
April 11, 2023
I received this book as part of a Goodreads’ giveaway. The title alone captured me. I love everything about the psychological thriller genre. Plus, the setting in Savannah had me hooked. I thought this was a well-done novel with interesting character development. You often find yourself asking, “what the heck is going on.” That’s exactly what I look for in novels like this.
April 22, 2023
A Huge Thanks To GoodReads & The Author, Alyssa Richards, For A Free Kindle Edition Of This Amazing Novel!!
I highly recommend anyone looking for a book full of suspense, to pick up a copy of “Forced Perspective!” I thoroughly enjoyed reading such an action packed, page-turning novel!!
I highly recommend anyone looking for a book full of suspense, to pick up a copy of “Forced Perspective!” I thoroughly enjoyed reading such an action packed, page-turning novel!!
November 5, 2023
I liked this a lot. It sucked me in and kept me guessing. The final twist - I never saw coming. But I don't understand the why. Maybe I missed something? Overall, a really good book. I'm just a little confused by it.
November 9, 2024
forced perspective
Very good read that has believable characters and real situational storyline.
You are kept in suspense until the very before finally finding the true perpetrator.
Pick it up and start reading you won’t regret it.
Very good read that has believable characters and real situational storyline.
You are kept in suspense until the very before finally finding the true perpetrator.
Pick it up and start reading you won’t regret it.
August 15, 2026
A Unique Thriller
I read this on Kindle Unlimited for a book club I'm in and it definitely did its job of keeping me up past my bedtime. It keeps you guessing and wanting to turn the next page the whole time. Well done.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited for a book club I'm in and it definitely did its job of keeping me up past my bedtime. It keeps you guessing and wanting to turn the next page the whole time. Well done.
January 7, 2025
Forced Perspective
Loved this book, the twist at the end I never saw coming. Definitely will read more books from Alyssa Richards.
Loved this book, the twist at the end I never saw coming. Definitely will read more books from Alyssa Richards.
August 20, 2026
Tight story with lots of twists and turns with a great ending.
Currently Reading
November 9, 2022FORCED PERSPECTIVE is what readers call a "clean read". It's a term used to describe novels that don't contain profanity or graphic sexual situations.
***Someone knows her secret. And they're going to make her pay.***
Add to your shelf: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Free with KindleUnlimited! https://a.co/d/b19SIJx
***Someone knows her secret. And they're going to make her pay.***
Add to your shelf: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Free with KindleUnlimited! https://a.co/d/b19SIJx
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews