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Paige Hanson #2
Body Count
The follow up book to The Diseased.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
1 person is currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Thomas
9 books33 followersSM Thomas (known in the real world as Steph) is a British author from Somerset who specialises in gripping psychological thrillers and suspense novels
Writing since she “could hold a pencil,” she’s known for crafting twisty, immersive worlds that keep readers on edge
When she’s not plotting her next page-turner, you may find her with her nose buried in a book, or dancing around her living room to Beyoncé
Her 'Paige Hanson' series builds an addictive arc of mystery and sacrifice, while her standalone thrillers like 'My Sister’s Downfall' and 'Long Weekend' stand out for their psychological depth and tense plotting.
Whether through government conspiracies, damaged relationships, or isolated settings, Steph brings a compelling blend of tension, heart, and unexpected turns.
Writing since she “could hold a pencil,” she’s known for crafting twisty, immersive worlds that keep readers on edge
When she’s not plotting her next page-turner, you may find her with her nose buried in a book, or dancing around her living room to Beyoncé
Her 'Paige Hanson' series builds an addictive arc of mystery and sacrifice, while her standalone thrillers like 'My Sister’s Downfall' and 'Long Weekend' stand out for their psychological depth and tense plotting.
Whether through government conspiracies, damaged relationships, or isolated settings, Steph brings a compelling blend of tension, heart, and unexpected turns.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 23, 2023
Paige Hanson is back and full of grit as she takes on the state and regains what little sense of self she has left.
As she forges ahead on a new mission with her friends, Georgia and Violet, we are confronted with the reality that nothing is as it seems. Who can you trust when everyone is keeping a secret?
As Paige weeds through her friends and foes, it becomes clear that second earth is becoming more like a prison every day.
The lengths Paige goes to protect her son and what other family she has left will leave you wondering who will be standing in the end.
Book 2 will anxiously have you waiting for book 3. And when you've read them all, you'll want to reread them to pay closer attention to the details SM Thomas has weaved throughout these stories, making these a must-have on your bookshelf.
As she forges ahead on a new mission with her friends, Georgia and Violet, we are confronted with the reality that nothing is as it seems. Who can you trust when everyone is keeping a secret?
As Paige weeds through her friends and foes, it becomes clear that second earth is becoming more like a prison every day.
The lengths Paige goes to protect her son and what other family she has left will leave you wondering who will be standing in the end.
Book 2 will anxiously have you waiting for book 3. And when you've read them all, you'll want to reread them to pay closer attention to the details SM Thomas has weaved throughout these stories, making these a must-have on your bookshelf.
April 7, 2023
Starting shortly after the events of The Diseased, Body Count follows Paige, Georgia, and Violet as they try to keep one step ahead of Paul, the President’s advisor. The President is dying, and Paige knows how to cure him. But she won’t tell. The lives of her son, Georgia, and Violet depend on her silence. Paige is also starting to remember the night of the car accident that killed her husband and caused her amnesia. What she remembers could be the thing that breaks her. What happened that night? Who can’t she trust? Will she be able to save her son and friends?
I don’t even know where to begin with Body Count. I was super excited when I got the heads-up email from the author and immediately downloaded it. I devoured this book. It took me over 3 hours to read. I read it in the car pick-up line (the best place for uninterrupted reading), at dinner, and in bed.
Body Count is the 2nd book in the Paige Hanson series. This book is not standalone. You need to read book 1 to understand what is happening in book 2. If you do read book two first, you will be confused.
Body Count is a fast-paced book that is set on the planet of Earth 2. Most of the book takes place in apartments where Paige, Georgia, and Violet are held captive or in the lab where Paige has done much of her work. This environment, along with the intense pressure that Paige is under for more than 90% of the book, is perfect for the book.
I liked Paige. There were times when I wanted to take her and hug her. Her mental state was shaky during the first half of the book. Not that I blamed her for feeling the way that she did. She thought she couldn’t trust anyone, including her best friend, Violet. She also was dealing with her memory coming back. It wasn’t like a waterfall, and everything came back at once. Nope, it was disjointed and confusing. There were things she remembered that didn’t make sense. But still, she was one of the strongest people in the book.
The secondary characters of Violet, Georgia, Ryle, and Paul were well-written. I liked that the author made it a point to make me not trust Violet, Georgia, or Ryle. Paul, on the other hand, was despicable. He was a faithful sycophant. Like Paige’s, my trust in Violet, Georgia, and Ryle wasn’t strong. I kept wondering what ulterior motives they had.
The main storyline was fantastic. As I said, Paige’s mental health was shaky for the book’s first half. It was understandable with everything that she had been through. She didn’t trust anyone and told her friends half-truths about things. It was understandable. But the book’s second half is where everything starts to pick up. Paige’s memory started returning, and she planned to get her, her friends, and her son out. There are a few big twists in the storyline that I did not see coming. It was sad when her memory returned, and she understood what her husband was trying to say. The author also didn’t hesitate to kill off the main characters. I was shocked at who was killed off. I didn’t see it coming and felt blindsided.
The end of Body Count annoyed me. Mainly because it ended with a To Be Continued. While I am glad that there will be another book, and I hope that Paige gets her revenge, I also wanted a resolution now (stamping my foot like Veruca Salt). I guess I’ll have to wait….sigh.
I would recommend Body Count to anyone over 21. There is language and violence but no sexual situations. Also, see my list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the post.
Many thanks to S.M. Thomas for allowing me to read and review Body Count. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
I don’t even know where to begin with Body Count. I was super excited when I got the heads-up email from the author and immediately downloaded it. I devoured this book. It took me over 3 hours to read. I read it in the car pick-up line (the best place for uninterrupted reading), at dinner, and in bed.
Body Count is the 2nd book in the Paige Hanson series. This book is not standalone. You need to read book 1 to understand what is happening in book 2. If you do read book two first, you will be confused.
Body Count is a fast-paced book that is set on the planet of Earth 2. Most of the book takes place in apartments where Paige, Georgia, and Violet are held captive or in the lab where Paige has done much of her work. This environment, along with the intense pressure that Paige is under for more than 90% of the book, is perfect for the book.
I liked Paige. There were times when I wanted to take her and hug her. Her mental state was shaky during the first half of the book. Not that I blamed her for feeling the way that she did. She thought she couldn’t trust anyone, including her best friend, Violet. She also was dealing with her memory coming back. It wasn’t like a waterfall, and everything came back at once. Nope, it was disjointed and confusing. There were things she remembered that didn’t make sense. But still, she was one of the strongest people in the book.
The secondary characters of Violet, Georgia, Ryle, and Paul were well-written. I liked that the author made it a point to make me not trust Violet, Georgia, or Ryle. Paul, on the other hand, was despicable. He was a faithful sycophant. Like Paige’s, my trust in Violet, Georgia, and Ryle wasn’t strong. I kept wondering what ulterior motives they had.
The main storyline was fantastic. As I said, Paige’s mental health was shaky for the book’s first half. It was understandable with everything that she had been through. She didn’t trust anyone and told her friends half-truths about things. It was understandable. But the book’s second half is where everything starts to pick up. Paige’s memory started returning, and she planned to get her, her friends, and her son out. There are a few big twists in the storyline that I did not see coming. It was sad when her memory returned, and she understood what her husband was trying to say. The author also didn’t hesitate to kill off the main characters. I was shocked at who was killed off. I didn’t see it coming and felt blindsided.
The end of Body Count annoyed me. Mainly because it ended with a To Be Continued. While I am glad that there will be another book, and I hope that Paige gets her revenge, I also wanted a resolution now (stamping my foot like Veruca Salt). I guess I’ll have to wait….sigh.
I would recommend Body Count to anyone over 21. There is language and violence but no sexual situations. Also, see my list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the post.
Many thanks to S.M. Thomas for allowing me to read and review Body Count. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
April 10, 2023
Paige Hansen‘s life is still in Parrel and it hangs on the whim of a sycophant name Paul and the president of earth two thanks to her brilliant scientific mind and photographic memory she’s too valuable to kill but this time it isn’t the masses she is trying to say but the ruler and president. The government is still using her son as leverage and although she is happy to have her lab back in the reunited with Violet in Georgia soon she starts miss trusting someone in her inner circle through her research and diagnostic efforts she finds out the president has multiple fatal problems all of which she is having a hard time finding a cure for. There was a lot happening in this book and I haven’t even mentioned her engagement or her mother who is still in hiding. After I read The Diseased by SM Thomas I thought it was one of the most brilliant books I had ever read but I am being honest when I say the author has definitely outdone herself with Body Count while reading Miss Thomases books I have never rolled my eyes or shook my head in disbelief her writing is smart and throughout the book you can see she has definitely dotted all the I’s and crossed every T. I love that page Hanson‘s world is like ours but just different enough that you know it’s a different place I loved this book and was so excited when I saw it was the addition to the disease and hope we can revisit Paige‘s world again she really has created a true winner with these books although this can be read as a standalone, but I wouldn’t cheat myself out of reading the first one there are two of the best books I have ever read in my entire life! I am being so serious! Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
February 2, 2024
This is the second book of this series and I think this story only got better than the first novel. Paige, as usual, is in a battle for her life, her friends’ lives and her sons’ life. The only problem is that memories of when Leo was killed are returning and she is no longer confident in who she can trust. Every person in her life seems to have their own agenda. There are so many plans made without any explanation for Paige and people are beginning to show their frustration. When Paige finds out what the State’s real agenda is, she realizes she must do something to change the course of history. Luckily she has real allies and a rudimentary plan is devised.
I felt this book was a real scary visualization of what life could be like in the future. I realize this is fiction but with what’s going on in our world today, this book enhances fears women have about losing rights to their bodies. This new world is incredibly scary and I am hoping this does not happen.
I felt this book was a real scary visualization of what life could be like in the future. I realize this is fiction but with what’s going on in our world today, this book enhances fears women have about losing rights to their bodies. This new world is incredibly scary and I am hoping this does not happen.
April 10, 2023
This book continues from book one The Diseased as Dr. Paige Hanson goes on a mission with her friends Agent Georgina Cherry and Violet Bhedi to save the people of Earth 2. There was a disaster on Earth 1 and a lottery was set up to take people to Earth 2 where Paige was born. Paige will protect her son Franklin at all costs. Paige doesn’t know who to trust when everyone has lots of secrets. Earth 2 is becoming more harder to survive. I really enjoyed this suspense thriller novel. I received this free book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2023
I really enjoyed it, it took me a while to remember the previous book but once I did it all worked. I loved the little easter eggs in the book - ie blood on Paul's shirt and then a while later we worked out where he got it from. That attention to detail was brilliant and stuck with me.
The author doesnt care about who gets killed and no-one is safe. The politics are intense and you really have to take account of who is in league with who and at what time.
The book ended on a cliff hanger and so cant wait for the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The author doesnt care about who gets killed and no-one is safe. The politics are intense and you really have to take account of who is in league with who and at what time.
The book ended on a cliff hanger and so cant wait for the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 4, 2023
My thanks to the Author publisher's and Book Sirens for providing me with a Kindle version of this book to read and honestly review.
This is the second book in this excellent series and carried on were book one left off. There are numerous references to the first book, but nevertheless thicould be read as a standalone story, though my advice would be to read book one. Well written clever imaginative intelligent and intriguing from first to last page, with the dreaded To Be Continued as a finale, please hurry with book three. Character driven with plenty of surprises along the way as our heroine continues to save the day but who to trust?
Completely recommended.
This is the second book in this excellent series and carried on were book one left off. There are numerous references to the first book, but nevertheless thicould be read as a standalone story, though my advice would be to read book one. Well written clever imaginative intelligent and intriguing from first to last page, with the dreaded To Be Continued as a finale, please hurry with book three. Character driven with plenty of surprises along the way as our heroine continues to save the day but who to trust?
Completely recommended.
April 12, 2023
First and foremost, this series goes in order and ends on cliffhangers! If you haven't read the first book go and do that otherwise this review will be confusing and contain spoilers!
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"What worked Leo?" - Paige
Paige had to return to the other side of the fence, only because Franklin wasn't with her! She will never be like her mother and will always place her son's life higher than anything else. But now she must play the part because what she comes back to is worse than what she was used to. . . The State already controlled so much but Paige really feels the strings of a puppeteer tightening around her. She has no choice but to follow. . . her life isn't the only one on the line!
The President is dying, and Paige must find a cure for him. Does she really want to save his life? Who can she trust and who should she keep at a distance? Which way is up?! Paige is trapped within a spider's web, and she must untangle herself as she still tries to remember what happened that night! Leo's voice still echoing in her head.
"I was sick of the lies and secrets." - Paige
Paige couldn't enjoy being free if Franklin wasn't with her! Returning wasn't something she ever wanted to do but she wouldn't rest until her son and her were together. Only she's a bit of celebrity in the eyes of the public and the State isn't too thrilled about it. Paige soon feels like she's nothing more than a doll that they dress up and move around.
She wishes to act out and rebel against everything that's happening to her and her friends. But conditions have been set in stone and if she crosses the line, consequences will be dealt. I really enjoyed getting to see how the Government of Earth Two really operates. How much control they ultimately have over the lives of their people. It also made me angry which I enjoy feeling such strong emotions whilst reading!
In this installment we also get to truly see the influences of Paige's upbringing and how being raised by a leader of a rebellion really molded her. I was intrigued by just how skilled Paige was, I mean we do see hints of it and have some degree of understanding in book one. But with this installment we truly see how masterful Paige is at manipulation and reading people. This read is very much a grand game of who has the upper hand and the control.
Mysteries and clues are lurking everywhere but connecting the dots is difficult. Paige's still trying to remember everything that happened the night Leo and her crashed. There are also things not adding up that involved Leo and some of his work. Paige has to be cautious about how she proceeds with investigating things because with one wrong step the cat will pounce.
Paige's still dealing with her grief of losing Leo, though grief never truly goes away. Within this installment she has to face things she didn't think she would ever have to. There are questions and concerns that arise as she tries to understand if it's alright to have such feelings and desires. We get more details into the two largest Acts the State is trying to ensure always happens, regardless of how individuals feel about it. . .
There are some parallels to today's current issues within the book. One of the biggest things that is a highly controversial topic amongst individuals is abortion. This may be a little bit of a spoiler but if you have read book one you kind of know about it or could guess how the State would view such medical procedures. It was well written and respectful a character even had a story to tie into why they believed it shouldn't be illegal. Ultimately a woman should be able to decide what she wants to do with her body.
The author spoils us a bit with recaps of things that happened within book one. Bit of refreshers to help jog the memory and be able to continue diving into Paige's story! Manipulation is a very apparent thing within this read and we get to see just how far people will go to ensure control/dominance. . . Strong feelings of grief, anxiety attacks, and deep-seated guilt. Language here and there, violence, and bloodshed. Slight gore within a couple of scenes or being able to understand what characters wish to do to others.
Paige's the only POV we get in this read and we are still getting flashback moments. She's having to battle nightmares and some mental health issues, but can you blame her?! This isn't the end of her story, and the cliffhanger is brutal! You will feel an array of emotions as you read through this thriller. The twists and turns were phenomenal, and I really loved finding out some of my theories were correct! Some of the plot twists still got me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We have some LGBTQ+ representation in this book along with some little romances.
Enjoy the read that has a little bit of a sci-fi vibe to it and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
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*
"What worked Leo?" - Paige
Paige had to return to the other side of the fence, only because Franklin wasn't with her! She will never be like her mother and will always place her son's life higher than anything else. But now she must play the part because what she comes back to is worse than what she was used to. . . The State already controlled so much but Paige really feels the strings of a puppeteer tightening around her. She has no choice but to follow. . . her life isn't the only one on the line!
The President is dying, and Paige must find a cure for him. Does she really want to save his life? Who can she trust and who should she keep at a distance? Which way is up?! Paige is trapped within a spider's web, and she must untangle herself as she still tries to remember what happened that night! Leo's voice still echoing in her head.
"I was sick of the lies and secrets." - Paige
Paige couldn't enjoy being free if Franklin wasn't with her! Returning wasn't something she ever wanted to do but she wouldn't rest until her son and her were together. Only she's a bit of celebrity in the eyes of the public and the State isn't too thrilled about it. Paige soon feels like she's nothing more than a doll that they dress up and move around.
She wishes to act out and rebel against everything that's happening to her and her friends. But conditions have been set in stone and if she crosses the line, consequences will be dealt. I really enjoyed getting to see how the Government of Earth Two really operates. How much control they ultimately have over the lives of their people. It also made me angry which I enjoy feeling such strong emotions whilst reading!
In this installment we also get to truly see the influences of Paige's upbringing and how being raised by a leader of a rebellion really molded her. I was intrigued by just how skilled Paige was, I mean we do see hints of it and have some degree of understanding in book one. But with this installment we truly see how masterful Paige is at manipulation and reading people. This read is very much a grand game of who has the upper hand and the control.
Mysteries and clues are lurking everywhere but connecting the dots is difficult. Paige's still trying to remember everything that happened the night Leo and her crashed. There are also things not adding up that involved Leo and some of his work. Paige has to be cautious about how she proceeds with investigating things because with one wrong step the cat will pounce.
Paige's still dealing with her grief of losing Leo, though grief never truly goes away. Within this installment she has to face things she didn't think she would ever have to. There are questions and concerns that arise as she tries to understand if it's alright to have such feelings and desires. We get more details into the two largest Acts the State is trying to ensure always happens, regardless of how individuals feel about it. . .
There are some parallels to today's current issues within the book. One of the biggest things that is a highly controversial topic amongst individuals is abortion. This may be a little bit of a spoiler but if you have read book one you kind of know about it or could guess how the State would view such medical procedures. It was well written and respectful a character even had a story to tie into why they believed it shouldn't be illegal. Ultimately a woman should be able to decide what she wants to do with her body.
The author spoils us a bit with recaps of things that happened within book one. Bit of refreshers to help jog the memory and be able to continue diving into Paige's story! Manipulation is a very apparent thing within this read and we get to see just how far people will go to ensure control/dominance. . . Strong feelings of grief, anxiety attacks, and deep-seated guilt. Language here and there, violence, and bloodshed. Slight gore within a couple of scenes or being able to understand what characters wish to do to others.
Paige's the only POV we get in this read and we are still getting flashback moments. She's having to battle nightmares and some mental health issues, but can you blame her?! This isn't the end of her story, and the cliffhanger is brutal! You will feel an array of emotions as you read through this thriller. The twists and turns were phenomenal, and I really loved finding out some of my theories were correct! Some of the plot twists still got me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We have some LGBTQ+ representation in this book along with some little romances.
Enjoy the read that has a little bit of a sci-fi vibe to it and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.com
August 10, 2023
🇬🇧📚 Book Review 📚🇬🇧
Thank you @s.m.thomas_author for my ARC 😍.
I am disproportionately excited about reading this book as I loved Book 1. Go check it out in my reviews, "Diseased".
#️⃣ 2023 Books Read: 27
🌟 Rating: 📓📙📘📓(4/5⭐)
🔲 Book Title: Body Count
🔲 Series: Paige Hanson Book 2
🖋️ Author: S.M. Thomas @s.m.thomas_author
🎭 Genre: Crime Fiction
📖 Format: 💻 e-book
📄 Pages : 295
📅 Review date: 30th April 2023
Excuse the delay in getting the review out.
#bookstagram #bookblog #bookreview #ukbookblog #ukbookstagram #bookworm #readersofinstagram #booktour #lovebooks #lovereading #2023books #bookstoread #bookstoread #BookTourReview #ad #adpr #blogtour #TDEPReviews
💻📖🎧 Book format & quality 💻📖🎧
A ebook, kindly sent by the author. Great quality and easy to read.
✒️ Details 📉
This book will not disappoint. Continuing on the journey of Paige, she is fragile but full of grit. There are moments through the book where I want to shake her and others I'd want to wrap her up and hug her. The authors portrayal of Paige's character is excellent, you can't help but be immersed in her story. I can't wait to read book 3.
📖 Read more 📖
Absolutely, book 1 was amazing, book 2 was excellent, when is book 3 out?
🤓 Author Synopsis 🤓
Despite having survived the trials and tribulations of The Diseased - Paige finds herself in a situation that seems even more impossible.
The President is dying.
Those four words set Paige’s life on a course she could never have predicted.
The President is dying, only Paige can save him.
Those eight words are the only ones keeping her friends Georgia and Violet alive.
The President is dying, only Paige can save him. She won’t.
It is those ten words that keep Paige motivated, that keep her sane.
🛒🛍️ Buy Links 🛒🛍️
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
Thank you @s.m.thomas_author for my ARC 😍.
I am disproportionately excited about reading this book as I loved Book 1. Go check it out in my reviews, "Diseased".
#️⃣ 2023 Books Read: 27
🌟 Rating: 📓📙📘📓(4/5⭐)
🔲 Book Title: Body Count
🔲 Series: Paige Hanson Book 2
🖋️ Author: S.M. Thomas @s.m.thomas_author
🎭 Genre: Crime Fiction
📖 Format: 💻 e-book
📄 Pages : 295
📅 Review date: 30th April 2023
Excuse the delay in getting the review out.
#bookstagram #bookblog #bookreview #ukbookblog #ukbookstagram #bookworm #readersofinstagram #booktour #lovebooks #lovereading #2023books #bookstoread #bookstoread #BookTourReview #ad #adpr #blogtour #TDEPReviews
💻📖🎧 Book format & quality 💻📖🎧
A ebook, kindly sent by the author. Great quality and easy to read.
✒️ Details 📉
This book will not disappoint. Continuing on the journey of Paige, she is fragile but full of grit. There are moments through the book where I want to shake her and others I'd want to wrap her up and hug her. The authors portrayal of Paige's character is excellent, you can't help but be immersed in her story. I can't wait to read book 3.
📖 Read more 📖
Absolutely, book 1 was amazing, book 2 was excellent, when is book 3 out?
🤓 Author Synopsis 🤓
Despite having survived the trials and tribulations of The Diseased - Paige finds herself in a situation that seems even more impossible.
The President is dying.
Those four words set Paige’s life on a course she could never have predicted.
The President is dying, only Paige can save him.
Those eight words are the only ones keeping her friends Georgia and Violet alive.
The President is dying, only Paige can save him. She won’t.
It is those ten words that keep Paige motivated, that keep her sane.
🛒🛍️ Buy Links 🛒🛍️
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
April 8, 2023
"Or was it just easier to believe the lies than look just beyond them, between the lines, and see the murkiness that swam beneath?"
This was such an exciting follow up to the first book! With just as many twists and shocking moments as the one before, Paige Hanson finds herself back in enemy territory in an attempt to get her son back. Her impossibly daunting task is to save the very President she so despises; his mysterious illness something that only she can remedy. Living in strict confinement alongside Violet and Georgia, her only two allies in a sea of adversaries, she must work with them to find a cure and keep each other alive.
The lines are blurred between friend and foe, with almost everyone harbouring secrets, including Paige. Will she figure out who she can trust before it is too late? Will she remember enough about the night of the fateful accident to finally piece together the missing pieces of the puzzle that her life has become? Just when she thinks she has it figured out, the world gets turned upside down once again.
I found this book to be incredibly exciting, a truly thrilling and fast-paced read. There is so much to unpack about it, and so much that I still want to know. I cannot wait for the next part of the story.
"An emotional enemy is dangerous. Logic can’t predict emotion and logic was always my greatest weapon."
This was such an exciting follow up to the first book! With just as many twists and shocking moments as the one before, Paige Hanson finds herself back in enemy territory in an attempt to get her son back. Her impossibly daunting task is to save the very President she so despises; his mysterious illness something that only she can remedy. Living in strict confinement alongside Violet and Georgia, her only two allies in a sea of adversaries, she must work with them to find a cure and keep each other alive.
The lines are blurred between friend and foe, with almost everyone harbouring secrets, including Paige. Will she figure out who she can trust before it is too late? Will she remember enough about the night of the fateful accident to finally piece together the missing pieces of the puzzle that her life has become? Just when she thinks she has it figured out, the world gets turned upside down once again.
I found this book to be incredibly exciting, a truly thrilling and fast-paced read. There is so much to unpack about it, and so much that I still want to know. I cannot wait for the next part of the story.
"An emotional enemy is dangerous. Logic can’t predict emotion and logic was always my greatest weapon."
May 28, 2023
It was great diving back into the Paige Hanson series and whilst I did enjoy the first book, I found this to be a much better pace.
What I especially liked about this one was how the relationships developed and changed between Paige, Vi, and Georgia, seeing secrets revealed, tasks to undertake, and common enemies. Though at times I did want to shake Paige - she can be so stubborn in her views. I was right about trusting someone though, which made me happy, as I would have been sad if it turned out otherwise.
Paige does drive me a bit nuts - I get why she struggles to trust, but she is so quick to cast opinions on things when she really isn't in a place to do so. However, she coped much better around Paul than I ever would - what a horrible human being!
I would say you do need to read the first book before this one, it can't really be read as a standalone. I also have a (probably) unpopular opinion... I preferred the original cover style (used for book 1), sorry. I get that it doesn't reveal much about the genre, but I found it stood out more.
Overall, a great continuation along the journey, I enjoyed finding out more about the State and I can't wait to see what the next instalment reveals.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from LoveBooksTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
What I especially liked about this one was how the relationships developed and changed between Paige, Vi, and Georgia, seeing secrets revealed, tasks to undertake, and common enemies. Though at times I did want to shake Paige - she can be so stubborn in her views. I was right about trusting someone though, which made me happy, as I would have been sad if it turned out otherwise.
Paige does drive me a bit nuts - I get why she struggles to trust, but she is so quick to cast opinions on things when she really isn't in a place to do so. However, she coped much better around Paul than I ever would - what a horrible human being!
I would say you do need to read the first book before this one, it can't really be read as a standalone. I also have a (probably) unpopular opinion... I preferred the original cover style (used for book 1), sorry. I get that it doesn't reveal much about the genre, but I found it stood out more.
Overall, a great continuation along the journey, I enjoyed finding out more about the State and I can't wait to see what the next instalment reveals.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from LoveBooksTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 24, 2023
Body Count is the second book I have read by SM Thomas. Diseased being the first and the book that comes before this one. Don't be tempted to read Body Count before Disease. It's a series that has to be read in order, no doubt about it.
This book begins where Diseased ended. Paige and her team are tasked with attempting to find a cure for the president who is dying. She finds herself struggling to know who she can trust, and her mental health suffers.
A sci-fi story is another truly immersive read. The world building of Earth 2' is done really well, and it made me feel I was with Paige as she started remembering what really happened to her husband. Alongside her memories returning, she is fighting to get her son back, and as the story unfolds, trying to keep her friends alive too.
With characters, I could either get behind or detest. I felt invested, yet again in this series. It had enough twists to keep me on my toes, and again, it ended on another cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to Book 3!
Thanks to Love Books Tours and the author for the copy of the book to write my unbiased review.
This book begins where Diseased ended. Paige and her team are tasked with attempting to find a cure for the president who is dying. She finds herself struggling to know who she can trust, and her mental health suffers.
A sci-fi story is another truly immersive read. The world building of Earth 2' is done really well, and it made me feel I was with Paige as she started remembering what really happened to her husband. Alongside her memories returning, she is fighting to get her son back, and as the story unfolds, trying to keep her friends alive too.
With characters, I could either get behind or detest. I felt invested, yet again in this series. It had enough twists to keep me on my toes, and again, it ended on another cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to Book 3!
Thanks to Love Books Tours and the author for the copy of the book to write my unbiased review.
October 17, 2023
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
SM Thomas has smashed it out the park with the second book “Body Count”. I thought the first book “Diseased” was totally awesome but book two just wow.
SM Thomas writes so smoothly that the story just flows and reads seamlessly. I felt like I was living with the characters, such brilliant descriptive writing fully draws you in to the story and believe me it is hard to put the book down and emerge back into reality!
The series focuses on Paige Hanson, whose life is being ruled by the State on Earth 2. You do need to read the books in order as book two starts straight from the end of book 1 (Diseased).
In this book we get to see the characters grow and understand them much better as many secrets are revealed. For Paige, it is a time of conflicting emotions and who should she trust. The interaction between the characters is just sublime.
I cannot praise SM Thomas enough for producing such a captivating book.
Highly, Highly Recommend.
Happy Reading.
SM Thomas has smashed it out the park with the second book “Body Count”. I thought the first book “Diseased” was totally awesome but book two just wow.
SM Thomas writes so smoothly that the story just flows and reads seamlessly. I felt like I was living with the characters, such brilliant descriptive writing fully draws you in to the story and believe me it is hard to put the book down and emerge back into reality!
The series focuses on Paige Hanson, whose life is being ruled by the State on Earth 2. You do need to read the books in order as book two starts straight from the end of book 1 (Diseased).
In this book we get to see the characters grow and understand them much better as many secrets are revealed. For Paige, it is a time of conflicting emotions and who should she trust. The interaction between the characters is just sublime.
I cannot praise SM Thomas enough for producing such a captivating book.
Highly, Highly Recommend.
Happy Reading.
April 16, 2023
Many thanks to @lovebooktours for a review copy.
"Body Count" follows straight from the first book "The Diseased" which it's highly recommended you read first. This time the President of Earth 2 (in book 1 Earth has been decimated and the inhabitants of Earth 2 are the only survivors, that's why I mentioned you have to read book 1 first) is dying and Paige, Georgia, and Violet are tasked with finding a cure.
Paige is still trying to remember, with very little success, what really happened during the accident which killed her husband. Does she really want to remember? can she survive after the secrets are revealed?
S.M. Thomas has created a world in which not a lot is revealed, it feels like the descendants have been living on Earth 2 for years. As with Book 1 it ends with a "To Be Continued" cliffhanger you have to wait till the end of the year for Book 3.
"Body Count" follows straight from the first book "The Diseased" which it's highly recommended you read first. This time the President of Earth 2 (in book 1 Earth has been decimated and the inhabitants of Earth 2 are the only survivors, that's why I mentioned you have to read book 1 first) is dying and Paige, Georgia, and Violet are tasked with finding a cure.
Paige is still trying to remember, with very little success, what really happened during the accident which killed her husband. Does she really want to remember? can she survive after the secrets are revealed?
S.M. Thomas has created a world in which not a lot is revealed, it feels like the descendants have been living on Earth 2 for years. As with Book 1 it ends with a "To Be Continued" cliffhanger you have to wait till the end of the year for Book 3.
April 17, 2023
Wow! This is the second book in the Paige Hanson series and I loved it even better than the first. The same as the first book this one ended on a cliffhanger. You want to read this series in order as the next book picks up right where the last one stopped.
Paige and her team are tasked with finding a cure for the president who is dying. It’s not a secret as it’s told in the first chapter. As they look for a cure Paige is haunted by flashbacks from the accident that took her husband’s life. She starts to remember more about that night but it only brings more questions. I read the books one after the other so book 1 was fresh in my mind. I loved that because the characters and events built on the first book. I highly recommend this addictive book!
Paige and her team are tasked with finding a cure for the president who is dying. It’s not a secret as it’s told in the first chapter. As they look for a cure Paige is haunted by flashbacks from the accident that took her husband’s life. She starts to remember more about that night but it only brings more questions. I read the books one after the other so book 1 was fresh in my mind. I loved that because the characters and events built on the first book. I highly recommend this addictive book!
May 1, 2023
Dr Paige Hanson tells her own story in a lucid, taut and unsettling style, allowing one inside her thought processes as she fights for survival and reunion with her son. There is compromise and capitulation as shock after shock is revealed and she gradually regains her memory. Perhaps some things are best forgotten for ever?
This is a terrifying vision of the future but there are also moments of pure tenderness and love.
The characters are vivid and brutal. But this is a story that is as moving as it is thrilling.
The author has an extraordinary ability to evoke the power of the mind and show what love looks like when trust and loyalty have been questioned. A stunning new character, Ryle, adds new tensions and new emotions. I loved this book.
This is a terrifying vision of the future but there are also moments of pure tenderness and love.
The characters are vivid and brutal. But this is a story that is as moving as it is thrilling.
The author has an extraordinary ability to evoke the power of the mind and show what love looks like when trust and loyalty have been questioned. A stunning new character, Ryle, adds new tensions and new emotions. I loved this book.
December 8, 2023
The president is sick, dying. Dr. Paige can save him. But will she? She will if she wants her son back. If she wants to protect her friends.
This is Book 2 of this trilogy. Oh, so good. Oh, so complicated. A dystopian world. A deadly virus. Leo said, "It worked." What worked? He said, "Don't trust." Don't trust who? So many questions. Wonderful, interesting characters.
I was gifted an audio version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narrator does a wonderful job presenting this complicated story with expression and various voices. However, I did not like her Paul voice. He is the ultimate bad guy and his voice sounds more old and decrepit. And irritating. But still 5 stars for her.
This is Book 2 of this trilogy. Oh, so good. Oh, so complicated. A dystopian world. A deadly virus. Leo said, "It worked." What worked? He said, "Don't trust." Don't trust who? So many questions. Wonderful, interesting characters.
I was gifted an audio version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narrator does a wonderful job presenting this complicated story with expression and various voices. However, I did not like her Paul voice. He is the ultimate bad guy and his voice sounds more old and decrepit. And irritating. But still 5 stars for her.
January 2, 2024
Just WOW!! For someone who doesn't usually read sci-fi or dystopian fiction, I have been beyond hooked by this series. I find myself devouring it at every opportunity. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars; it's that good. But let me give you fair warning; Ms. Thomas has not only created characters who are so despicable they keep your blood pressure at stroke levels, she will pull at your heartstrings and ultimately make you ugly cry. And in my opinion, it takes a very talented author to accomplish both. I can't recommend this series highly enough and as soon as I post this review I will begin devouring book 3. Check them out. Just be sure you read them in order.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.
April 8, 2023
Another good book in the series! I did enjoy the first book better. I felt like the twists and turns were still good in book 2 not as shocking, except the end, which was really good and I was surprised. I love the game of who can you trust. I've doubted just about every character along the way!
There were a few new characters in this book and I really felt the author did a great job of building their personalities.
This book is a mix of COVID, Big Brother, and Hunger Games (minus the games)!!
I'm excited to read book three when it comes out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There were a few new characters in this book and I really felt the author did a great job of building their personalities.
This book is a mix of COVID, Big Brother, and Hunger Games (minus the games)!!
I'm excited to read book three when it comes out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2023
In this book, we are back on planet Earth, 2 with Paige Hansen. Paige and her friends are trying to stay one step ahead of the man who is after them, and Paige is experiencing some trust issues with her friends which isn’t helping things.
Paige’s memory is coming back in dribs and drabs but not in any cohesive fashion, so it remains confusing.
The characters are well developed and the storyline is nicely written. Although the ending is a little frustrating for the impatient among us.
Over a good story, but make sure you read book one first.
My thanks to the author and to LoveBooksTours for gifting me this book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Paige’s memory is coming back in dribs and drabs but not in any cohesive fashion, so it remains confusing.
The characters are well developed and the storyline is nicely written. Although the ending is a little frustrating for the impatient among us.
Over a good story, but make sure you read book one first.
My thanks to the author and to LoveBooksTours for gifting me this book. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
April 17, 2023
I love this series so much! I actually expected book two in this series to be a bit slower paced but it was just as action packed as the first book. ‘Body Count’ finds Paige still fighting to get her baby son back and also to escape the Government’s clutches. Paige is such a great character and so mentally strong. Some of the questions we were left asking at the end of the first book are answered here but I am desperate for book three now. ‘Body Count’ is a gripping story but make sure you read the series in order.
April 20, 2023
This is the sequel to The Diseased and book 2 of The Paige Hanson thriller. This series cannot be read as a standalone. The story starts right after The Diseased. The first part of the book is a slow steady pace and the second part of the book is where the story really picks up. On book two Paige starts remembering what really happened with her husband and what he was trying to tell her. We also see her fight for her son and keeping her friends alive.
Overall another great installment to the series with a lot in expected turns. Just like the first, it ends on a cliffhanger.
Overall another great installment to the series with a lot in expected turns. Just like the first, it ends on a cliffhanger.
April 25, 2023
This is a page turning thriller sequel 'Paige Hanson Book 2'. You need to read Book 1 "Diseased" as this follows on from where Book 1 ended.
The story is told to us through Paige's prospect, which I enjoyed is it made it more real. The President's only hope of surviving is with Paige, but she not going to make it the simple. Paige must keep ahead of Paul, the president's advisor, if they want to stay safe, but can she keep going? Paige also has pieces of her husband's car accident coming back to her, but will this be something good or will it make the situation worse?
The story is told to us through Paige's prospect, which I enjoyed is it made it more real. The President's only hope of surviving is with Paige, but she not going to make it the simple. Paige must keep ahead of Paul, the president's advisor, if they want to stay safe, but can she keep going? Paige also has pieces of her husband's car accident coming back to her, but will this be something good or will it make the situation worse?
April 2, 2023
It took me a little while to read this as I was getting distracted but once I got into it I couldn’t stop! There are so many things that you think will happen that end up being completely different. I read the first book and couldn’t wait to read this one and it definitely lived up to my expectations. Now I can’t wait for the third! Loved it.
I received this book as an arc and I’m giving this review voluntarily.
I received this book as an arc and I’m giving this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2023
Thank you Author S.M Thomas and Booksirens for this ARC. I am voluntarily leaving this review. This book will play tug of war with your mind! What a roller coaster of a story this is! This is book two and I would strongly encourage you to read book one. One minute you will think you know who the bad guys are and then boom! This book will keep you on your toes and you will not want it to end. I can't wait for the continuation of this story!
April 27, 2023
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Body Count picks up where the first book, Diseased, ended.
This is a fast-paced book with lots of twists and turns where our main character, Paige, is the only person who can save the President who is dying and she decides not to.
This is a good follow-up to the first book and is definitely worth your time.
Body Count picks up where the first book, Diseased, ended.
This is a fast-paced book with lots of twists and turns where our main character, Paige, is the only person who can save the President who is dying and she decides not to.
This is a good follow-up to the first book and is definitely worth your time.
August 13, 2023
To let everyone know in advance I wasn’t aware this was the second book in the trilogy when I got it. With that being said, S.M helped fill in many blanks throughout my reading experience and I LOVED the book! I am picking up the first and third one now!
This was an amazing dystopian book with Hunger Game vibes. I adored our MC Paige and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the trilogy takes us!
This was an amazing dystopian book with Hunger Game vibes. I adored our MC Paige and I can’t wait to see where the rest of the trilogy takes us!
March 16, 2023
The second book in the Paige Hanson series. We continue with Paige’s story. Paige survived the twists and turns from the first book and starts a twisty adventure. A suspenseful thriller with a strong female character. A mysterious plot that ends with a surprise.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 10, 2023
Book 2, the events resume from book 1. Paige is the President's hope for surviving, but she is conflicted. The story is told from Paige's perspective, so everything she knows the readers know. The tenses switch throughout the book, which makes the reading a bit difficult.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksprout, Hidden Gems Books, and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Booksprout, Hidden Gems Books, and author.
April 18, 2023
This story was fast paced and enthralling. I don't usually read science fiction, however these characters hooked me in and I just had to see them survive. This author has created a whole new future for mankind. I can't wait to read the next one. I received this complimentary ebook in exchange for an honest review, from Voracious readers only.
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