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The Lucky One
Ten years ago, I survived a serial killer. They called me the lucky one, but they don’t know the truth I’ve been hiding ever since…
Then: We danced together that night, our dresses glittering in the swirling lights. We couldn’t have known that for one of us, it would be our last night alive.
Now: Back in my hometown a decade later—the place I’ve avoided because of the memories—I can’t shake the feeling that I am being followed. I tell myself it’s all in my head, but the prickle on the back of my neck feels like a warning. Then the anonymous messages land in my inbox: I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you.
I want to feel safe, surrounded by my closest friends. But everyone has something to hide and it’s impossible to know who I can trust.
When my friend Esme goes missing, her phone ringing through to voicemail, it feels like the past is about to repeat itself.
Someone won’t let me forget what really happened that night. What I promised. How I escaped. If the truth comes out, I only hope they can forgive me... I can’t make the same mistake again. I have to keep us all safe. What if, this time, I’m not so lucky?
An addictive, nail-biting psychological thriller, The Lucky One will have you sleeping with the light on. Fans of Stillhouse Lake, The Girl on the Train and Gillian Flynn will be totally hooked!
Then: We danced together that night, our dresses glittering in the swirling lights. We couldn’t have known that for one of us, it would be our last night alive.
Now: Back in my hometown a decade later—the place I’ve avoided because of the memories—I can’t shake the feeling that I am being followed. I tell myself it’s all in my head, but the prickle on the back of my neck feels like a warning. Then the anonymous messages land in my inbox: I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you.
I want to feel safe, surrounded by my closest friends. But everyone has something to hide and it’s impossible to know who I can trust.
When my friend Esme goes missing, her phone ringing through to voicemail, it feels like the past is about to repeat itself.
Someone won’t let me forget what really happened that night. What I promised. How I escaped. If the truth comes out, I only hope they can forgive me... I can’t make the same mistake again. I have to keep us all safe. What if, this time, I’m not so lucky?
An addictive, nail-biting psychological thriller, The Lucky One will have you sleeping with the light on. Fans of Stillhouse Lake, The Girl on the Train and Gillian Flynn will be totally hooked!
380 pages, Paperback
First published September 14, 2022
755 people are currently reading
6414 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Payne
5 books448 followersJessica lives in the Pacific Northwest where the mountains and Puget Sound are home. Beyond writing, she loves to run, rock climb, and explore the great outdoors with her daughter and husband. When holding still, which isn’t often, you’ll find a book in her hand and a cat or dog in her lap. Jessica writes suspense and thriller and is the host of #MomsWritersClub on Twitter and YouTube. You can find out more about her at her website, jessicapayne.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 376 reviews
June 17, 2023
**** On my TOP 10 list for 2022! Highly recommend!
WOW!!! I absolutely loved this book!!! I seriously can’t recommend it enough!!😍OMGGG you guys!! THIS BOOK!!! ❤️So I didn’t even plan to post today… but I finished this last night and I LOVED it so much!! I have to tell someone… and my family is like… oh that’s nice!! 😂 FIRST off… I have read both of @jessicapayne.writer books this year and she is KILLING it!! 🔥 I didn’t think she could top Make Me Disappear..🤷♀️… but I think she did!! 😏
Okay why did I love this soo much?!!!
✅ Norah escaped a serial killer… 😳I know right?!!? Who does that?!! 😮… He has killed at least 5 girls.. including her bestie..😤… in front of her..😭..
✅ This was creepy as hell because.. he has never been caught… ten years later..😬
✅ Norah has been in the spotlight for her career… soooo 🤔 wouldn’t the killer know where to find her? 😬 Why did he let her walk away??? What is she NOT telling us?? 🤔🤷♀️
✅ This book was so so good!! I literally had so much anxiety towards the end… it was SO intense!! That ENDING!! 😳 I couldn’t believe it!! 🙌🙌 Brilliant!
Okay so it is official!! @jessicapayne.writer is AWESOME and a Must read author for me!! I seriously can’t recommend this book enough!! So run 🏃♀️ and make your thriller loving hearts ♥️ happy and get this one!! ❤️❤️❤️ 5 creepy serial killer stars ⭐️
WOW!!! I absolutely loved this book!!! I seriously can’t recommend it enough!!😍OMGGG you guys!! THIS BOOK!!! ❤️So I didn’t even plan to post today… but I finished this last night and I LOVED it so much!! I have to tell someone… and my family is like… oh that’s nice!! 😂 FIRST off… I have read both of @jessicapayne.writer books this year and she is KILLING it!! 🔥 I didn’t think she could top Make Me Disappear..🤷♀️… but I think she did!! 😏
Okay why did I love this soo much?!!!
✅ Norah escaped a serial killer… 😳I know right?!!? Who does that?!! 😮… He has killed at least 5 girls.. including her bestie..😤… in front of her..😭..
✅ This was creepy as hell because.. he has never been caught… ten years later..😬
✅ Norah has been in the spotlight for her career… soooo 🤔 wouldn’t the killer know where to find her? 😬 Why did he let her walk away??? What is she NOT telling us?? 🤔🤷♀️
✅ This book was so so good!! I literally had so much anxiety towards the end… it was SO intense!! That ENDING!! 😳 I couldn’t believe it!! 🙌🙌 Brilliant!
Okay so it is official!! @jessicapayne.writer is AWESOME and a Must read author for me!! I seriously can’t recommend this book enough!! So run 🏃♀️ and make your thriller loving hearts ♥️ happy and get this one!! ❤️❤️❤️ 5 creepy serial killer stars ⭐️
September 14, 2022
I didn't want to put this book down! What a page turner! I loved the twists, turns and revelations. I also thought the use of two timelines was very intriguing. That really worked for me.
Norah survived a serial killer (Hansel) ten years ago. Her friend, August was not as lucky. Since then, she has made herself strong, becoming an MMA fighter then MMA coach. She has been estranged from her father who does not believe in mental health and told her she should just get over it. But when word arrives that her father is dead, she returns to her hometown.
Her arrival in town to attend his funeral happens to be around the same time that a book comes out detailing how she survived. Norah is not happy about the book. She thought it was going in another direction. Nor is Norah happy about the messages she has been receiving. To make matters worse, after arriving in town, she follows breadcrumbs and finds the dead body of a friend.
Now there is a murder investigation and Norah, and her friends are trying to survive while mourning their murdered friend and the fear that either Hansel is back and killing or a copycat is taking over. Either way, they are in danger.
I was glued to the pages of this book. As I mentioned, I enjoyed reading the two timelines and watching as Norah sparred (Literally and physically) with others in this book. She must deal with the police detective, a podcaster, the author of the book, her feelings for Owen, and the thought that her father might not have died from suicide. Whew!
What a great book! I can't wait to read what the author writes next!
A gripping page turner that kept me on my toes and turning the pages!
#TheLuckyOne #NetGalley
Thank you to Bookouture 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
Norah survived a serial killer (Hansel) ten years ago. Her friend, August was not as lucky. Since then, she has made herself strong, becoming an MMA fighter then MMA coach. She has been estranged from her father who does not believe in mental health and told her she should just get over it. But when word arrives that her father is dead, she returns to her hometown.
Her arrival in town to attend his funeral happens to be around the same time that a book comes out detailing how she survived. Norah is not happy about the book. She thought it was going in another direction. Nor is Norah happy about the messages she has been receiving. To make matters worse, after arriving in town, she follows breadcrumbs and finds the dead body of a friend.
Now there is a murder investigation and Norah, and her friends are trying to survive while mourning their murdered friend and the fear that either Hansel is back and killing or a copycat is taking over. Either way, they are in danger.
I was glued to the pages of this book. As I mentioned, I enjoyed reading the two timelines and watching as Norah sparred (Literally and physically) with others in this book. She must deal with the police detective, a podcaster, the author of the book, her feelings for Owen, and the thought that her father might not have died from suicide. Whew!
What a great book! I can't wait to read what the author writes next!
A gripping page turner that kept me on my toes and turning the pages!
#TheLuckyOne #NetGalley
Thank you to Bookouture 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
September 8, 2022
4+ stars.
If you enjoyed Make Me Disappear by this author, you will love The Lucky One. It had me gripped from the first page and I was almost too scared to keep reading.The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.
Ten years ago Norah Silverton and her friend August were abducted by the serial killer known as Hansel. August was killed quickly, but Norah managed to convince Hansel that she could understand and love someone like him, but that her father was sick and she needed to go to him. Surprisingly he let her go and said he would wait for her.
Of course Norah left town as soon as she possibly could after convincing the suspicious and very belligerent Detective Cron that she herself was not the killer.
Now, ten years later, Norah is back in town for her father’s funeral and it seems that Hansel (or someone) is targeting Norah’s friends. There are suspects galore and many red herrings. Can Norah save her remaining friends and avoid becoming Hansels final victim? This was a most suspenseful and exciting read that I thoroughly enjoyed although it did jangle my nerves! Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
If you enjoyed Make Me Disappear by this author, you will love The Lucky One. It had me gripped from the first page and I was almost too scared to keep reading.The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.
Ten years ago Norah Silverton and her friend August were abducted by the serial killer known as Hansel. August was killed quickly, but Norah managed to convince Hansel that she could understand and love someone like him, but that her father was sick and she needed to go to him. Surprisingly he let her go and said he would wait for her.
Of course Norah left town as soon as she possibly could after convincing the suspicious and very belligerent Detective Cron that she herself was not the killer.
Now, ten years later, Norah is back in town for her father’s funeral and it seems that Hansel (or someone) is targeting Norah’s friends. There are suspects galore and many red herrings. Can Norah save her remaining friends and avoid becoming Hansels final victim? This was a most suspenseful and exciting read that I thoroughly enjoyed although it did jangle my nerves! Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
August 20, 2022
THE LUCKY ONE is a psychological thriller novel, by Jessica Payne. Having just read and enjoyed her debut novel, “Make Me Disappear”, I was looking forward to reading her second stand-alone thriller, “The Lucky One”.
Her Stand-alone Novels Include:
Make Me Disappear (2022)
The Lucky One (2022)
This is my review of The Lucky One.
Norah Silverton was a serial killer survivor, the high school senior who escaped her killer after being kidnapped, but her friend, August Taylor, never made it out alive. The serial killer nicknamed “Hansel” was responsible for five deaths.
They called her The Lucky One, but she was so traumatized that she moved from the crime scene, Kansas City to LA, where she became an MMA fighter/trainer.
Norah receives a signed copy of a book after she did an interview about her job as a coach and her athletes. But instead, the book followed those that have been victim to, or involved in, crimes. And her story…the high school senior who escaped her killer…would soon become a best seller.
Now ten years later, Norah has returned to Kansas City following the death of her father. Norah is greeted by her best friend, Janie (August’s twin), and soon to follow her other friend, Esme…the inseparable three!
Back in her hometown —the place Norah has avoided—she I can feel the backlash, the whispers. the rumors. She never told Janie the terrible details of the attack, or how she escaped.
Soon, Norah is in the middle of a murder investigation, similar to Hansel, the serial killer who let her go, and now she is a suspect or person of interest.
Norah, senses she is being followed. Then anonymous messages land in her inbox:
" I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you."
Who can she trust? Someone out there won’t let her forget what really happened that night.
This was a well-written fast paced, serial killer story that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the big reveal!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
Her Stand-alone Novels Include:
Make Me Disappear (2022)
The Lucky One (2022)
This is my review of The Lucky One.
Norah Silverton was a serial killer survivor, the high school senior who escaped her killer after being kidnapped, but her friend, August Taylor, never made it out alive. The serial killer nicknamed “Hansel” was responsible for five deaths.
They called her The Lucky One, but she was so traumatized that she moved from the crime scene, Kansas City to LA, where she became an MMA fighter/trainer.
Norah receives a signed copy of a book after she did an interview about her job as a coach and her athletes. But instead, the book followed those that have been victim to, or involved in, crimes. And her story…the high school senior who escaped her killer…would soon become a best seller.
Now ten years later, Norah has returned to Kansas City following the death of her father. Norah is greeted by her best friend, Janie (August’s twin), and soon to follow her other friend, Esme…the inseparable three!
Back in her hometown —the place Norah has avoided—she I can feel the backlash, the whispers. the rumors. She never told Janie the terrible details of the attack, or how she escaped.
Soon, Norah is in the middle of a murder investigation, similar to Hansel, the serial killer who let her go, and now she is a suspect or person of interest.
Norah, senses she is being followed. Then anonymous messages land in her inbox:
" I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you."
Who can she trust? Someone out there won’t let her forget what really happened that night.
This was a well-written fast paced, serial killer story that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the big reveal!
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
August 20, 2022
Another page turner from Jessica Payne. The blurb had me at serial killer, I just can't resist a good cat and mouse story. Don't start reading this book if you aren't prepared to settle in for the day or night with it. Easy to binge read and get lost in this story.
10 years ago, Norah escaped a serial killer. Her friend, August, did not. They called her the Lucky One, but in reality she doesn't feel lucky. She left home soon after and moved far away to LA where she became an MMA fighter/trainer. Never again will she feel weak. Now she has come back to Kansas for the first time since leaving as her father has passed away. It doesn't take long before she is in the middle of a murder investigation, one that is scarily similar to Hansel, the serial killer who let her go.
Norah is strong and tough now, but the thought of Hansel being back scares her. Is she next? Is Hansel back or is a copycat? The police have alot of questions for her and her friends. We jump back in time to when she was taken and learn about what really happened that night, her prom night.
If you like a fast paced, serial killer story then this one is for you. Published September 14th. Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
10 years ago, Norah escaped a serial killer. Her friend, August, did not. They called her the Lucky One, but in reality she doesn't feel lucky. She left home soon after and moved far away to LA where she became an MMA fighter/trainer. Never again will she feel weak. Now she has come back to Kansas for the first time since leaving as her father has passed away. It doesn't take long before she is in the middle of a murder investigation, one that is scarily similar to Hansel, the serial killer who let her go.
Norah is strong and tough now, but the thought of Hansel being back scares her. Is she next? Is Hansel back or is a copycat? The police have alot of questions for her and her friends. We jump back in time to when she was taken and learn about what really happened that night, her prom night.
If you like a fast paced, serial killer story then this one is for you. Published September 14th. Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read.
March 23, 2023
Imagine if you survived the unimaginable, a serial killer. After witnessing her friend’s murder, Norah is forced to do anything possible to escape from her captor. The question that haunts her for years after the tragedy is why she was the lucky one to have the opportunity to live another day. The past and present collide in this fast paced psychological thriller. This character driven story pulled me in immediately and I couldn’t put it down. Is the killer a horrific stranger from the past, or is danger lurking behind a familiar facade? I highly recommend this unputdownable thriller. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 19, 2022
I was seriously impressed with Payne's debut Make Me Disappear, and couldn't wait to see what her latest book had to offer.
It was a great premise, and the reader wonders straight away why Norah was spared death whilst her friend was killed. I liked Norah a lot, although I felt somewhat disbelieving at her naivety.
The plot, whilst it wasn't as obsessive to me as the debut, was a fantastic and gripping read nonetheless. Payne has certainly established that she is not a 'one-hit wonder' and psychological thrillers will love it!
It was a great premise, and the reader wonders straight away why Norah was spared death whilst her friend was killed. I liked Norah a lot, although I felt somewhat disbelieving at her naivety.
The plot, whilst it wasn't as obsessive to me as the debut, was a fantastic and gripping read nonetheless. Payne has certainly established that she is not a 'one-hit wonder' and psychological thrillers will love it!
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August 1, 2022Hi friends! Author here. Thank you so much for reading The Lucky One. I wrote this book after hearing the miraculous story of a woman who tricked her serial killer into letting her go. I always wondered who that woman would become. I decided she'd become a badass and make herself as least likely to be anyone's victim ever again as possible. But of course, it's a book. A book needs a plot. And I think I came up one with one that will keep you turning the pages! Happy reading!
September 17, 2022
This book was so slow to start - I couldn’t immediately invest in any one character, but luckily, this is a book that got better and better the further you read.
Quick synopsis: Norah’s father has died (murder or suicide?) and she leaves Los Angeles to go back to her hometown and handle the situation. Going back there was torture for her, as she is a “lucky one” … the one person who escaped from a serial killer. She’s been hiding from him for years, knowing he won’t give up on having her. Being back in Kansas City terrifies her, and as more horrific things keep happening, she knows Hansel isn’t done with her.
Our cast of characters for this mystery/thriller are:
Norah, the “lucky one” who escaped a serial killer, and current MMA fighter
August - Norah’s high school friend who didn’t make it when they were abducted by the serial killer
Janie - August’s twin sister, now Norah’s best friend
Chloe - Janie’s fiancée, who is quite jealous of Norah’s friendship with Janie
Owen - August’s boyfriend at the time of the serial killer run-in, and former Marine
Esme - Norah and Janie’s old friend from high school
Rob - Norah’s MMA coach and good friend
Elaine - A woman who acts like paparazzi and is constantly lurking behind every corner
Guy - author of a serial killer tell-all that told way too much, after he and Norah had a brief fling
Detective Cron - The officer Norah met her after watching her friend die at the hands of a serial killer; she treated Norah as a suspect and hasn’t changed in 10 years
Hansel - The serial killer
All were decent characters, and while I prefer books with a fast start, the ending was worth the wait. It wasn’t completely out of left field, but it was well-written. The chemistry between Owen and Norah - yow! I also loved that it is set in Kansas City (Missouri, the book doesn’t emphasize that) as that’s my hometown, too. I was going to give this 3.5 stars, but am raising it to a solid four after that good ending.
(Thank you to Bookouture, Jessica Payne, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review.)
Quick synopsis: Norah’s father has died (murder or suicide?) and she leaves Los Angeles to go back to her hometown and handle the situation. Going back there was torture for her, as she is a “lucky one” … the one person who escaped from a serial killer. She’s been hiding from him for years, knowing he won’t give up on having her. Being back in Kansas City terrifies her, and as more horrific things keep happening, she knows Hansel isn’t done with her.
Our cast of characters for this mystery/thriller are:
Norah, the “lucky one” who escaped a serial killer, and current MMA fighter
August - Norah’s high school friend who didn’t make it when they were abducted by the serial killer
Janie - August’s twin sister, now Norah’s best friend
Chloe - Janie’s fiancée, who is quite jealous of Norah’s friendship with Janie
Owen - August’s boyfriend at the time of the serial killer run-in, and former Marine
Esme - Norah and Janie’s old friend from high school
Rob - Norah’s MMA coach and good friend
Elaine - A woman who acts like paparazzi and is constantly lurking behind every corner
Guy - author of a serial killer tell-all that told way too much, after he and Norah had a brief fling
Detective Cron - The officer Norah met her after watching her friend die at the hands of a serial killer; she treated Norah as a suspect and hasn’t changed in 10 years
Hansel - The serial killer
All were decent characters, and while I prefer books with a fast start, the ending was worth the wait. It wasn’t completely out of left field, but it was well-written. The chemistry between Owen and Norah - yow! I also loved that it is set in Kansas City (Missouri, the book doesn’t emphasize that) as that’s my hometown, too. I was going to give this 3.5 stars, but am raising it to a solid four after that good ending.
(Thank you to Bookouture, Jessica Payne, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review.)
July 28, 2022
Ten years ago Norah and her friend August were driving home from a dance and were taken by a serial killer named Hansel. August was not lucky enough to escape, but Norah was given a second chance. She is now living in L.A. and is a sought after MMA coach. She gets news of her father's death and has to travel back to Kansas and that's when things take a turn and her past begins to haunt her again.
THE LUCKY ONE is my second book by Jessica Payne. It was fast-paced and an exciting ride. I liked the short chapters and the flashbacks to the kidnapping from ten years earlier. I did figure out the ending, but it didn't take away my overall enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instragram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
THE LUCKY ONE is my second book by Jessica Payne. It was fast-paced and an exciting ride. I liked the short chapters and the flashbacks to the kidnapping from ten years earlier. I did figure out the ending, but it didn't take away my overall enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instragram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
August 4, 2022
Thank you to bookatoure and netgally for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion
This book is about Norah, who survived being kidnapped by a serial killer by convincing him she loved him. She manages to live a normalish life until she has to go back to her home town, and a close friend is killed again. Is the serial killer back?
Payne has said she was inspired by reading about a woman who managed to escape a serial killer this way, and it surely is a riveting beginning to a novel. The book was fast-paced, but I struggled with believing in it. I felt more lenient after realizing someone could escape from a serial killer this way, but I don’t quite buy that a serial killer would be so besotted to change his ways or to not realize after such a long time, that she might not have loved him.
The author did a good job ‘throwing breadcrumbs’ for the reader to follow, and it made the novel enjoyable. I was curious about who the serial killer could be, Payne managed to keep my interest despite my misgivings about the future plot itself.
I will read more books by the author, she is a skilled writer and with the right plot I will be overjoyed like I was with make me disappear.
This book is about Norah, who survived being kidnapped by a serial killer by convincing him she loved him. She manages to live a normalish life until she has to go back to her home town, and a close friend is killed again. Is the serial killer back?
Payne has said she was inspired by reading about a woman who managed to escape a serial killer this way, and it surely is a riveting beginning to a novel. The book was fast-paced, but I struggled with believing in it. I felt more lenient after realizing someone could escape from a serial killer this way, but I don’t quite buy that a serial killer would be so besotted to change his ways or to not realize after such a long time, that she might not have loved him.
The author did a good job ‘throwing breadcrumbs’ for the reader to follow, and it made the novel enjoyable. I was curious about who the serial killer could be, Payne managed to keep my interest despite my misgivings about the future plot itself.
I will read more books by the author, she is a skilled writer and with the right plot I will be overjoyed like I was with make me disappear.
August 23, 2022
This was a fun and twisty read that I finished over a few hours. The story centers on Norah, who heads home to Kansas City upon the death of her father, having fled a near death experience with a notorious serial killer 10 years earlier. Once back in her hometown, it becomes obvious that the person she escaped will not let things go until she fulfills the promise she made in order to get away all those years ago.
This was a fast paced read with a lot happening and a whole cast of characters who may be the next victim or even the villain. While I did figure out who the culprit was, I questioned myself a couple different times. My only real nit with the book is that I didn’t like the way the cops were portrayed- they seemed to be a mix of insensitive, lazy, and ineffective and it grated on me a bit. I also couldn’t understand why Norah kept letting people back into her life that she didn’t want anything to do with (but won’t say more because I don’t want to accidentally spoil anything). The end of the book was action packed and everything got tied up pretty neatly.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was both action packed and suspenseful. I liked Payne’s first book as well, and am looking forward to reading more! Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fast paced read with a lot happening and a whole cast of characters who may be the next victim or even the villain. While I did figure out who the culprit was, I questioned myself a couple different times. My only real nit with the book is that I didn’t like the way the cops were portrayed- they seemed to be a mix of insensitive, lazy, and ineffective and it grated on me a bit. I also couldn’t understand why Norah kept letting people back into her life that she didn’t want anything to do with (but won’t say more because I don’t want to accidentally spoil anything). The end of the book was action packed and everything got tied up pretty neatly.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and thought it was both action packed and suspenseful. I liked Payne’s first book as well, and am looking forward to reading more! Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book was fantastic! Well written and binge worthy. Fast paced, with an engaging plot that was full of twists and turns. The characters were likable and well developed, and the twist at the end. 🤯 What more can you ask for in a phytological thriller?!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This book was fantastic! Well written and binge worthy. Fast paced, with an engaging plot that was full of twists and turns. The characters were likable and well developed, and the twist at the end. 🤯 What more can you ask for in a phytological thriller?!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 24, 2022
“Ten years ago, I survived a serial killer. They called me the lucky one, but they don’t know the truth I’ve been hiding ever since.”
My first Jessica Payne book and I’ve already dubbed her as a non-bookmarkable author! She writes to reduce the number of bookmarkable places in her story….in other words, she writes binge-worthy books.
I love a book that grabs me at page one and never lets go! This one was difficult to put down…and that’s a good thing. Often authors focus on a great hook to keep readers interested within the first few pages, but Jessica Payne has realized that it’s equally important to keep readers reading. Where many authors end a chapter at the natural break in a story, like the end of a ‘scene’, Payne ends chapters leaving things unresolved or cliffhangers.
Payne does two things I used to hate: time hopping and cliff-hangers. BUT, they are done so extremely well that it actually adds to the enjoyment of the book.
I loved this compelling, ramped-up, tension and suspense-filled psychological thriller.
My first Jessica Payne book and I’ve already dubbed her as a non-bookmarkable author! She writes to reduce the number of bookmarkable places in her story….in other words, she writes binge-worthy books.
I love a book that grabs me at page one and never lets go! This one was difficult to put down…and that’s a good thing. Often authors focus on a great hook to keep readers interested within the first few pages, but Jessica Payne has realized that it’s equally important to keep readers reading. Where many authors end a chapter at the natural break in a story, like the end of a ‘scene’, Payne ends chapters leaving things unresolved or cliffhangers.
Payne does two things I used to hate: time hopping and cliff-hangers. BUT, they are done so extremely well that it actually adds to the enjoyment of the book.
I loved this compelling, ramped-up, tension and suspense-filled psychological thriller.
October 11, 2022
There was way too much going on and I just didn't find any of the characters to be genuine. They didn't react to things that were happening in a realistic way. "Oh, I came home to bury my dad but my friend was also murdered, probably related to that serial killer I escaped 10 years ago but I'll be back Monday" excuse me?? Then the romance added in. People going missing every five minutes. I kept thinking it was over and there was another goofy twist waiting. It was too long.
August 9, 2022
Norah escaped a serial killer at prom night ten years ago. Her best friend didn’t. She is back in her home town again, and the mystery continues. First of all I love discovering new authors, but this book didn’t sit well with me.
Spoiler:
How didn’t she recognize Hansel? Like really?
This book had too many words and too little happened.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Spoiler:
How didn’t she recognize Hansel? Like really?
This book had too many words and too little happened.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this physiological thriller and was very interested to read the second book by Jessica Payne - The Lucky One and I think it was even better than her first book.
Ten years ago Norah survived a serial killer while leaving their school prom, but unfortunately her best friend August did not. Norah left home and moved to LA where she became a cage fighter/MMA fighter/ trainer as she didn't want to be in the same position again and feel weak. Ten years later she heads home as her father has passed away and suddenly she's right in the middle of another murder investigation and the original killer or a copycat is back and in contact with her again.
She meets up with old friends and the officer who dealt with the case before, and it takes on a new course of it's own. A real twisty page turner that keeps you guessing and wanting more.
I did worry at the beginning if I would like this book, as I'm not a great fan of the fighting scene, but I needn't have worried as the book and the characters were brilliant.
Thanks to Bookoutre and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Ten years ago Norah survived a serial killer while leaving their school prom, but unfortunately her best friend August did not. Norah left home and moved to LA where she became a cage fighter/MMA fighter/ trainer as she didn't want to be in the same position again and feel weak. Ten years later she heads home as her father has passed away and suddenly she's right in the middle of another murder investigation and the original killer or a copycat is back and in contact with her again.
She meets up with old friends and the officer who dealt with the case before, and it takes on a new course of it's own. A real twisty page turner that keeps you guessing and wanting more.
I did worry at the beginning if I would like this book, as I'm not a great fan of the fighting scene, but I needn't have worried as the book and the characters were brilliant.
Thanks to Bookoutre and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 1, 2022
Favorite book of the month! Full review to come.
August 14, 2022
Blindsiding Bamboozlement! 😳😯🤯😳🤯
Holy fluff! Holy Fluff! HOLY FLUFF!!!! I mean for crying out loud! Talk about a suspenseful, thrilling cat-and-mouse game! Payne is easily becoming a queen of thriller writing among the greats! For only a second book, she's writing with such creativity and gobsmacking thrilling plots, she comes across as an old pro. I'm completely smuckered and lost for words right now because I can't believe what I've just devoured.
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Norah had somehow overcome the odds of being a victim of a serial murderer, Hansel, when she was a teenager on prom night. Her best friend, August, wasn't so lucky. Years later, Norah is coming back home to visit her close friends, Janie and Esme. But what's meant to be a joyous time, ends up becoming sinister when her father passes away, and then her past becomes the present all over again. Hansel remembers her promise and plans to hold her to it. Norah was lucky once, but can she be again?
I DID NOT see that ending coming for all that it was worth! I kept thinking I knew and then Payne throws not one but TWO gaslighting loops at you that give severe whiplash! She keeps the angst and suspense tight and tense as the plot progresses barely leaving you room to catch your breath. You keep cheering on Norah, begging her to keep doing what she's doing even if it seems crazy at times. This book is powerful, strong, absolutely spine-tinglingly suspenseful that will leave you with a heart rate after a steady workout. Divinely delectable!
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for this ARC.
Release Date: September 14, 2022
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: 4.5 / 5 Beach Waves! 🌊
Holy fluff! Holy Fluff! HOLY FLUFF!!!! I mean for crying out loud! Talk about a suspenseful, thrilling cat-and-mouse game! Payne is easily becoming a queen of thriller writing among the greats! For only a second book, she's writing with such creativity and gobsmacking thrilling plots, she comes across as an old pro. I'm completely smuckered and lost for words right now because I can't believe what I've just devoured.
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Norah had somehow overcome the odds of being a victim of a serial murderer, Hansel, when she was a teenager on prom night. Her best friend, August, wasn't so lucky. Years later, Norah is coming back home to visit her close friends, Janie and Esme. But what's meant to be a joyous time, ends up becoming sinister when her father passes away, and then her past becomes the present all over again. Hansel remembers her promise and plans to hold her to it. Norah was lucky once, but can she be again?
I DID NOT see that ending coming for all that it was worth! I kept thinking I knew and then Payne throws not one but TWO gaslighting loops at you that give severe whiplash! She keeps the angst and suspense tight and tense as the plot progresses barely leaving you room to catch your breath. You keep cheering on Norah, begging her to keep doing what she's doing even if it seems crazy at times. This book is powerful, strong, absolutely spine-tinglingly suspenseful that will leave you with a heart rate after a steady workout. Divinely delectable!
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for this ARC.
Release Date: September 14, 2022
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: 4.5 / 5 Beach Waves! 🌊
September 22, 2022
Books like this really think their readers are dumb huh.
Just like Make Me Disappear (another disappointment but at least it was a quick read), this started out promising but didn't deliver. The difference being that The Lucky One was a slow drag and could have been trimmed in length. It took me ages to finish and just kept going downhill.
Most of the book was awfully predictable and I guessed the reveal (the who, the how, the red herrings, all of it) early on. Elaine and Guy were loathsome vultures but still better than everyone else, who had no personality and were there just for the sake of existing. The story was very repetitive, with the same facts and thoughts being mentioned over and over again.
Lots of things make zero sense or don't match up:
There's more but I have wasted enough time on this book so ciao.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
Just like Make Me Disappear (another disappointment but at least it was a quick read), this started out promising but didn't deliver. The difference being that The Lucky One was a slow drag and could have been trimmed in length. It took me ages to finish and just kept going downhill.
Most of the book was awfully predictable and I guessed the reveal (the who, the how, the red herrings, all of it) early on. Elaine and Guy were loathsome vultures but still better than everyone else, who had no personality and were there just for the sake of existing. The story was very repetitive, with the same facts and thoughts being mentioned over and over again.
Lots of things make zero sense or don't match up:
There's more but I have wasted enough time on this book so ciao.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
August 8, 2022
Ohhh this was a pacey and clever little thriller. I really liked the basic setup here, especially that Norah was able to trick a serial killer back when she was in high school into letting her go. Obviously I immediately needed to know how because I just knew anyone who could manage that was someone that would be interesting to read about. Norah was definitely fascinating, she took all her fear and anger surrounding her past trauma and channeled it into a career for herself as she’s now a famous MMA fighter and coach. Seriously badass! So I was definitely rooting for Norah and then you have this exciting and fast paced storyline that really kept me engaged. The chapters were short and many ended on a small cliffhanger which really made me want to keep reading. The author did a pretty good job at misdirecting the reader and I had fun trying to figure out who the killer was. My first by the author but definitely not my last, definitely a fun binge read with good tension and thrills.
August 7, 2022
After reading Make Me Disappear I knew I had to read The Lucky One! I loved this book just as much as Make Me Disappear! Jessica Payne is a twisty genius!
Norah survived a serial killer when she was in high school, so what are the chances that she would be the target of a serial killer again?
I loved that Norah is a strong independent protagonist! I mean she is an MMA coach 🥊. This was such a thrilling and exciting cat and mouse chase that will leave you hoping for the best! While I guessed who the serial killer was prior to its reveal, it was a great plot that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
You definitely need to add this psychological thriller to your TBR!
***** Many thanks to Bookouture, Jessica Payne, and NetGalley for the gifted copy as it was provided to me in turn for my honest opinion.
Rating 4.5 stars but rounding up to 5 stars on Goodreads
Norah survived a serial killer when she was in high school, so what are the chances that she would be the target of a serial killer again?
I loved that Norah is a strong independent protagonist! I mean she is an MMA coach 🥊. This was such a thrilling and exciting cat and mouse chase that will leave you hoping for the best! While I guessed who the serial killer was prior to its reveal, it was a great plot that will leave you on the edge of your seat!
You definitely need to add this psychological thriller to your TBR!
***** Many thanks to Bookouture, Jessica Payne, and NetGalley for the gifted copy as it was provided to me in turn for my honest opinion.
Rating 4.5 stars but rounding up to 5 stars on Goodreads
January 30, 2023
I was interested in this book just from reading the synopsis and when I finished it reading I knew that I did a good choice. I was gripped by this fast-paced very well-written story, with all those secrets, and a serial killer lurking...just perfect for my taste. It kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. Can't wait to read something else from this author.
August 26, 2023
Ten years ago Norah escaped from a serial killer Hansel but her friend August did not. They called Norah the lucky one, so why didn't she feel lucky!!
Norah has since made herself strong, becoming an MMA fighter then a coach. She goes back home after ten years when she hears her father has died.
Norah feels like she is being watched then the messages arrive "I'm watching. I've been waiting for you.' Who can Norah trust? Someone is out there and they won't let her forget what happened that night!!
There are plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep you gripped in this exciting book.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Norah has since made herself strong, becoming an MMA fighter then a coach. She goes back home after ten years when she hears her father has died.
Norah feels like she is being watched then the messages arrive "I'm watching. I've been waiting for you.' Who can Norah trust? Someone is out there and they won't let her forget what happened that night!!
There are plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep you gripped in this exciting book.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2022
4.5 serial killer stars rounded down to 4!
After reading and absolutely devouring Jessica Payne's debut, Make Me Disappear, I was so dang excited when she sent me an ARC of her next release. After waiting far too long to finally pick it up, I am so excited to confirm that she put out yet another amazingly twisty psychological thriller. I can not wait to see how far she will go in this genre!
The main character, Norah, was such a badass woman and I loved her character ARC throughout. Surviving a serial killer once by convincing him to let her go was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but will Norah be put back into a similar situation once again when another one of her friends shows up dead-killed by the same MO? While I did suspect who the serial killer was revealed to be, Payne definitely threw me off throughout and had me questioning it at various times. Overall I absolutely love serial killer thrillers and this one was no different!
Thank you so much to Jessica for directly sending me a copy, as well as NetGalley and Bookouture. Highly recommend picking this one up when it publishes on 9/14!
After reading and absolutely devouring Jessica Payne's debut, Make Me Disappear, I was so dang excited when she sent me an ARC of her next release. After waiting far too long to finally pick it up, I am so excited to confirm that she put out yet another amazingly twisty psychological thriller. I can not wait to see how far she will go in this genre!
The main character, Norah, was such a badass woman and I loved her character ARC throughout. Surviving a serial killer once by convincing him to let her go was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but will Norah be put back into a similar situation once again when another one of her friends shows up dead-killed by the same MO? While I did suspect who the serial killer was revealed to be, Payne definitely threw me off throughout and had me questioning it at various times. Overall I absolutely love serial killer thrillers and this one was no different!
Thank you so much to Jessica for directly sending me a copy, as well as NetGalley and Bookouture. Highly recommend picking this one up when it publishes on 9/14!
September 6, 2022
4.5 rounded up
A quick, easy to read mystery perfect for fans of authors like Frieda McFadden, Karin Slaughter, Lucinda Berry and Lisa Gardner. A fast-paced page turner that you can read in one sitting, mostly because you won't be able to put it down. I've not read this author before but have seen her books around and its a genre I enjoy so I picked up this latest one to serve as my introduction. I am excited to now go back and read her past works. The Lucky One was well written, full of twists & turns, and delivered up an explosive ending that I did not see coming. If you love thrillers, mysteries or just books about women overcoming horrific odds then I'd recommend picking this one up. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an early copy.
A quick, easy to read mystery perfect for fans of authors like Frieda McFadden, Karin Slaughter, Lucinda Berry and Lisa Gardner. A fast-paced page turner that you can read in one sitting, mostly because you won't be able to put it down. I've not read this author before but have seen her books around and its a genre I enjoy so I picked up this latest one to serve as my introduction. I am excited to now go back and read her past works. The Lucky One was well written, full of twists & turns, and delivered up an explosive ending that I did not see coming. If you love thrillers, mysteries or just books about women overcoming horrific odds then I'd recommend picking this one up. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an early copy.
January 29, 2023
I was very excited to receive an early copy of The Lucky one, after reading and loving Jessica’s debut novel Make Me Disappear. Many thanks to @bookouture @netgalley and @jessicapayne
Ten years ago, I survived a serial killer. They called me the lucky one, but they don’t know the truth I’ve been hiding ever since…
Then: We danced together that night, our dresses glittering in the swirling lights. We couldn’t have known that for one of us, it would be our last night alive.
Now: Back in my hometown a decade later—the place I’ve avoided because of the memories—I can’t shake the feeling that I am being followed. I tell myself it’s all in my head, but the prickle on the back of my neck feels like a warning. Then the anonymous messages land in my inbox: I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you.
Congratulations on another binge-worthy book. I flew through it! What I feel Jessica does really well, is hold your attention, through her fluent and suspenseful writing style. From relatable, flawed characters to short, pacy chapters - cleverly ending on cliff hangers, she propels you to read on and uncover the truth. I enjoyed the duel timeline told from past flashbacks to the present. The compelling tension throughout had me gripped to the climactic ending. Although, I was fairly confidant I had guessed the culprit, it was still a surprise to find out I was right.
Highly recommended if you’re after a fast paced psychological thriller! Out next week.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ten years ago, I survived a serial killer. They called me the lucky one, but they don’t know the truth I’ve been hiding ever since…
Then: We danced together that night, our dresses glittering in the swirling lights. We couldn’t have known that for one of us, it would be our last night alive.
Now: Back in my hometown a decade later—the place I’ve avoided because of the memories—I can’t shake the feeling that I am being followed. I tell myself it’s all in my head, but the prickle on the back of my neck feels like a warning. Then the anonymous messages land in my inbox: I’m watching. I’ve been waiting for you.
Congratulations on another binge-worthy book. I flew through it! What I feel Jessica does really well, is hold your attention, through her fluent and suspenseful writing style. From relatable, flawed characters to short, pacy chapters - cleverly ending on cliff hangers, she propels you to read on and uncover the truth. I enjoyed the duel timeline told from past flashbacks to the present. The compelling tension throughout had me gripped to the climactic ending. Although, I was fairly confidant I had guessed the culprit, it was still a surprise to find out I was right.
Highly recommended if you’re after a fast paced psychological thriller! Out next week.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 7, 2024
Who knew Prom could end in such a terrifying nightmare?? Norah and her friend August were kidnapped on the way home from their high school prom. Now ten years later, Norah is still mystified as she is getting "messages" as August was killed and she survived. Is the serial killer back? Because the murders continue. Is it a copycat or a protege? Either way it's frightening. There are so many great (and gruesome) things happening in this novel: a book written about the murders, a nosy podcaster, a dead father, the dead woman's twin, and Norah's become an MMA fighter in case she's attacked again. If this doesn't get your interest, nothing will! I flew through this one as there are "breadcrumbs" everywhere (both literal and figurative)! Just get your hands on it and don't stop (or read in the dark)!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
July 27, 2022
I was fortunate to get an early read of this book. While the cover/title/cover copy leans a little "damsel in distress," Norah Silverton is anything but! She's a badass elite MMA coach. Ten years ago she tricked a serial killer into letting her go, and she's spent those ten years making sure that she'll never be a helpless victim again. But now the killer--or someone pretending to be him--is back. Norah's got all the skills and courage, but she can't fight a target she can't see.
This was a dizzying ride, with Norah's pivoting and pivoting again, trying to figure out where the real threat lies. And you won't believe it when you find out!
This book has the fast pace and physicality of Make Me Disappear, and--my favorite--a character you can really bond with.
This was a dizzying ride, with Norah's pivoting and pivoting again, trying to figure out where the real threat lies. And you won't believe it when you find out!
This book has the fast pace and physicality of Make Me Disappear, and--my favorite--a character you can really bond with.
September 15, 2022
"According to my former therapist, the chance of falling victim to a serial killer is .00039 percent." The opening line for 'The Lucky One' by Jessica Payne immediately draws readers in, as you get immensely curious.
Ten years ago, the main female protagonist, Norah Silverton lived after a death-defying encounter with the infamous serial killer, Hansel. Her best friend, however, was not so lucky. Searching for peace, she moves and makes a name for herself as a popular MMA coach. After her father's death, she is forced to return to her hometown and is plunged into her nightmare- Hansel has returned. And he seems fixated on reuniting with her. What follows is a crazy rollercoaster ride as we see how wrong Norah's former therapist was!
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book; there were never many dull moments and it was almost always full of action. I also love 'whodunit' mysteries as it is always fun to guess the identity of the bad guy.
This did not receive a full rating from me because I found the mystery to be lacking- I had the plot figured out pretty quickly. I wish there had been more development of the thrill element in the novel.
Taking all of the above into consideration, I give 'The Lucky One' a rating of 3 stars. The book had the potential to be great; for the most part, I liked the overall storyline and Norah was a credible and strong main character. However, it was not a fully developed mystery as the conclusion was easily foreseen. This is most suitable for persons over 18 due to triggers such as violence, murder, and death of a loved one. In the end, it was a nice introduction to Jessica Payne's work and I look forward to reading more of it in the future!
*A great many thanks to Netgalley, Jessica Payne, and Bookouture for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
Ten years ago, the main female protagonist, Norah Silverton lived after a death-defying encounter with the infamous serial killer, Hansel. Her best friend, however, was not so lucky. Searching for peace, she moves and makes a name for herself as a popular MMA coach. After her father's death, she is forced to return to her hometown and is plunged into her nightmare- Hansel has returned. And he seems fixated on reuniting with her. What follows is a crazy rollercoaster ride as we see how wrong Norah's former therapist was!
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book; there were never many dull moments and it was almost always full of action. I also love 'whodunit' mysteries as it is always fun to guess the identity of the bad guy.
This did not receive a full rating from me because I found the mystery to be lacking- I had the plot figured out pretty quickly. I wish there had been more development of the thrill element in the novel.
Taking all of the above into consideration, I give 'The Lucky One' a rating of 3 stars. The book had the potential to be great; for the most part, I liked the overall storyline and Norah was a credible and strong main character. However, it was not a fully developed mystery as the conclusion was easily foreseen. This is most suitable for persons over 18 due to triggers such as violence, murder, and death of a loved one. In the end, it was a nice introduction to Jessica Payne's work and I look forward to reading more of it in the future!
*A great many thanks to Netgalley, Jessica Payne, and Bookouture for this ARC. It is important to note that I was under no commitment to provide a positive review, and all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
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