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(Saul Anguish, #0.5) #2
All of Us Are Broken
It’s been a long time since the Hardwicke family has been on holiday. But thirteen-year-old Galen has wanted to see the wild dolphins at Scotland’s Chanonry Point for as long as she can remember, and her mother Christine – a lone parent since her beloved husband left – is determined she gets her wish. But their serene trip is about to be interrupted.
When DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex, he quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings by Missy and Fox, a damaged young couple hell-bent on infamy, their love story etched in blood. In pursuit, Saul follows their trail north.
The paths of the Hardwickes' and the deadly couple are about to collide. When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue, arrive on the scene, they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice.
Saul must uncover the truth about the couple. But can he find the strength to lay the ghosts of his past to rest before they break him?
When DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex, he quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings by Missy and Fox, a damaged young couple hell-bent on infamy, their love story etched in blood. In pursuit, Saul follows their trail north.
The paths of the Hardwickes' and the deadly couple are about to collide. When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue, arrive on the scene, they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice.
Saul must uncover the truth about the couple. But can he find the strength to lay the ghosts of his past to rest before they break him?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 20, 2023
141 people are currently reading
2341 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Cummins
13 books552 followersFiona Cummins is an award-winning former Daily Mirror showbusiness journalist and a graduate of the Faber Academy Writing A Novel course. She lives in Essex with her family. Rattle is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
April 28, 2023
Just like the author, I too fell in love with the beauty of the Scottish Highlands many years ago, and it’s here that ‘All Of Us Are Broken’ is set. However, in complete contrast, the dark storyline is in conflict with its surrounding beauty - but what a cracking read this is!
Single parent Christine Hardwicke, daughter Galen, and son Tom, leave their Essex home bound for Scotland’s Chanonry Point, to grant Galen’s wish to see the wild dolphins. This is a much longed for holiday - the first in a very long time, and a chance to put some sad events of the last couple of years to one side.
However, also headed for the Scottish Highlands are Missy and Fox, a couple on the run from the law, both with severely deep and damaged minds. As the hand of fate declares that the Hardwicke’s journey will cross with Missy and Fox’s, the repercussions will be horrific!
Dark though it was, this was a terrific read, with an interesting protagonist in DC Saul Anguish - brilliant, outspoken, a caring guy - however, when he, his friends or anyone else he cares about is threatened, he doesn’t play nice, you see Saul has a very dark side, but that only makes him even more interesting. ‘All Of Us Are Broken’ is a a grim, gritty and disturbing thriller, with a brutal couple who are intent on a Bonnie and Clyde style killing spree, attempting to outmanoeuvre the police, whilst playing psychological mind games with their terrified victims, but it’s brilliantly written and a real page turner! Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Single parent Christine Hardwicke, daughter Galen, and son Tom, leave their Essex home bound for Scotland’s Chanonry Point, to grant Galen’s wish to see the wild dolphins. This is a much longed for holiday - the first in a very long time, and a chance to put some sad events of the last couple of years to one side.
However, also headed for the Scottish Highlands are Missy and Fox, a couple on the run from the law, both with severely deep and damaged minds. As the hand of fate declares that the Hardwicke’s journey will cross with Missy and Fox’s, the repercussions will be horrific!
Dark though it was, this was a terrific read, with an interesting protagonist in DC Saul Anguish - brilliant, outspoken, a caring guy - however, when he, his friends or anyone else he cares about is threatened, he doesn’t play nice, you see Saul has a very dark side, but that only makes him even more interesting. ‘All Of Us Are Broken’ is a a grim, gritty and disturbing thriller, with a brutal couple who are intent on a Bonnie and Clyde style killing spree, attempting to outmanoeuvre the police, whilst playing psychological mind games with their terrified victims, but it’s brilliantly written and a real page turner! Highly recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
January 31, 2024
EXCERPT: Christine stilled, drawing in a sharp breath. Her mind raced faster than her heart. Missy and Fox had resigned themselves to death. And she understood what that meant, even as she prayed her children did not.
'Do you want to live?' Missy again. Quizzical. Mocking.
'Yes. Please. Yes.'
'Then choose a child to die.'
ABOUT 'ALL OF US ARE BROKEN': It’s been a long time since the Hardwicke family has been on holiday. But thirteen-year-old Galen has wanted to see the wild dolphins at Scotland’s Chanonry Point for as long as she can remember, and her mother Christine – a lone parent since her beloved husband left – is determined she gets her wish. But their serene trip is about to be interrupted.
When DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex, he quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings by Missy and Fox, a damaged young couple hell-bent on infamy, their love story etched in blood. In pursuit, Saul follows their trail north.
The paths of the Hardwickes' and the deadly couple are about to collide. When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue, arrive on the scene, they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice.
Saul must uncover the truth about the couple. But can he find the strength to lay the ghosts of his past to rest before they break him?
MY THOUGHTS: If you want a 'heart jumping out of your chest' read, this is it. With bells on.
Scary for its realism, All of Us Are Broken ticked all my boxes. It gave me all the feels. I finished it with torrents of tears running down my face. I can't believe the complexity of the emotional depths plumbed in this novel. Hours later, and I am still trembling.
Fiona Cummins has taken the 'famous for being famous' ideology one step further to encompass the desire some people have to be famous for being infamous. Evil.
Dark and intense, there is respite in the form of Tom, an eight-year-old boy who has recently lost his father. He is a delight, the light in an otherwise black storyscape where death is the currency for infamy.
There is immense tension from the start to the finish. The plot is unpredictable, the pacing rapid, the characterisation nothing short of brilliant.
An outstanding read - go in cold.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#AllofUsAreBroken #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
THE AUTHOR: Fiona Cummins is an award-winning former Daily Mirror showbusiness journalist and a graduate of the Faber Academy Writing A Novel course. She lives in Essex with her family.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Do you want to live?' Missy again. Quizzical. Mocking.
'Yes. Please. Yes.'
'Then choose a child to die.'
ABOUT 'ALL OF US ARE BROKEN': It’s been a long time since the Hardwicke family has been on holiday. But thirteen-year-old Galen has wanted to see the wild dolphins at Scotland’s Chanonry Point for as long as she can remember, and her mother Christine – a lone parent since her beloved husband left – is determined she gets her wish. But their serene trip is about to be interrupted.
When DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex, he quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings by Missy and Fox, a damaged young couple hell-bent on infamy, their love story etched in blood. In pursuit, Saul follows their trail north.
The paths of the Hardwickes' and the deadly couple are about to collide. When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue, arrive on the scene, they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice.
Saul must uncover the truth about the couple. But can he find the strength to lay the ghosts of his past to rest before they break him?
MY THOUGHTS: If you want a 'heart jumping out of your chest' read, this is it. With bells on.
Scary for its realism, All of Us Are Broken ticked all my boxes. It gave me all the feels. I finished it with torrents of tears running down my face. I can't believe the complexity of the emotional depths plumbed in this novel. Hours later, and I am still trembling.
Fiona Cummins has taken the 'famous for being famous' ideology one step further to encompass the desire some people have to be famous for being infamous. Evil.
Dark and intense, there is respite in the form of Tom, an eight-year-old boy who has recently lost his father. He is a delight, the light in an otherwise black storyscape where death is the currency for infamy.
There is immense tension from the start to the finish. The plot is unpredictable, the pacing rapid, the characterisation nothing short of brilliant.
An outstanding read - go in cold.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#AllofUsAreBroken #WaitomoDistrictLibrary
THE AUTHOR: Fiona Cummins is an award-winning former Daily Mirror showbusiness journalist and a graduate of the Faber Academy Writing A Novel course. She lives in Essex with her family.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 12, 2023
This was a very intense read, and the title definitely fits for the drama unfolding. I liked the different POVs and could imagine something like this really happening.
April 1, 2023
I think this is probably the easiest five stars of 2023 so far! Can I breathe now? Wow, wow, wow.
At just after 7.30 in the morning Christine Hardwicke, her daughter Galen and son Tom leave their Essex home bound for Chanonry Point on Scotland’s Black Isle to hopefully see the dolphins which is a long held wish of Galens. Unfortunately for them a young couple, Missy and Fox are also heading their way, both with a burning desire for infamy. Giving chase from Midtown-on-Sea are DC Saul Anguish, Blue aka Dr Clover March and two other officers. The paths of all will cross in the most dramatic of ways.
Fiona Cummins is at the top of her game. I’ve given all her books five stars but this one is something else. It starts with an absolutely jaw dropping, heartbreaker of a scenario which has you uttering the first of many wows or the odd naughty. This is one breathtaking race against time, it’s a scorcher of a thriller and yes, it’s dark if not appalling on occasions but despite the ensuing havoc the author places the characters that Fox and Missy encounter at the centre so you feel the emotion, empathy and gut wrenching sympathy. This is especially true of the Hardwicke family and I’m drawn to Galen who has so much to bear in her young life. The pace is warp speed and the tension at times is positively nail biting but the author gives much needed breathing space by switching attention elsewhere.
The characterisation is exemplary, even those who only grace the pages fleetingly are deftly portrayed. DC Saul Anguish is a constant source of fascination, he has also appeared in The Collector and Into the Dark but this works perfectly well as a stand-alone. He is a darkly light conundrum but you can’t deny his bravery with he and Blue being two of the best characters in this genre. As for Missy and Fox, I’ll say little except their portrayal is excellent.
This is a dark thriller that is incredibly well written. It’s full of action packed drama from beginning to end and I don’t mind admitting to eyes brimming with tears on occasion especially at the end. This is a stunner of a book, you gasp, inhale with shock, you smile at Tom, admire the guts of Galen and others at their courage. I think Fiona Cummins has even outdone herself here in this multilayered clever novel that is a one sitting read.
Highly recommended, obviously! Also recommend the dolphins at Chanonry Point, wrap up warm!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan McMillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
At just after 7.30 in the morning Christine Hardwicke, her daughter Galen and son Tom leave their Essex home bound for Chanonry Point on Scotland’s Black Isle to hopefully see the dolphins which is a long held wish of Galens. Unfortunately for them a young couple, Missy and Fox are also heading their way, both with a burning desire for infamy. Giving chase from Midtown-on-Sea are DC Saul Anguish, Blue aka Dr Clover March and two other officers. The paths of all will cross in the most dramatic of ways.
Fiona Cummins is at the top of her game. I’ve given all her books five stars but this one is something else. It starts with an absolutely jaw dropping, heartbreaker of a scenario which has you uttering the first of many wows or the odd naughty. This is one breathtaking race against time, it’s a scorcher of a thriller and yes, it’s dark if not appalling on occasions but despite the ensuing havoc the author places the characters that Fox and Missy encounter at the centre so you feel the emotion, empathy and gut wrenching sympathy. This is especially true of the Hardwicke family and I’m drawn to Galen who has so much to bear in her young life. The pace is warp speed and the tension at times is positively nail biting but the author gives much needed breathing space by switching attention elsewhere.
The characterisation is exemplary, even those who only grace the pages fleetingly are deftly portrayed. DC Saul Anguish is a constant source of fascination, he has also appeared in The Collector and Into the Dark but this works perfectly well as a stand-alone. He is a darkly light conundrum but you can’t deny his bravery with he and Blue being two of the best characters in this genre. As for Missy and Fox, I’ll say little except their portrayal is excellent.
This is a dark thriller that is incredibly well written. It’s full of action packed drama from beginning to end and I don’t mind admitting to eyes brimming with tears on occasion especially at the end. This is a stunner of a book, you gasp, inhale with shock, you smile at Tom, admire the guts of Galen and others at their courage. I think Fiona Cummins has even outdone herself here in this multilayered clever novel that is a one sitting read.
Highly recommended, obviously! Also recommend the dolphins at Chanonry Point, wrap up warm!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan McMillan for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 23, 2023
Brilliant, just brilliant. I cannot get enough of Fiona Cummins writing and characters. It is all so vivid on the pages that you feel as if you are there in the Scottish Highlands. Crime fiction at its very best, this is one dark and evil book.
A couple on a killing spree across the country, think Bonnie and Clyde. They do.not hold back and show no mercy. Fox and Missy are on the run and know how it will end. The Hardwicke family have been through absolute hell and are headed for Scotland to see the dolphins. They stop at a remote hotel for the night where they meet Fox and Missy. Blue and Saul are on the case as well.
If you have read Fiona’s books before you will have met Saul and Blue. This. An be read as a stand alone without missing anything though. The tension throughout this book is so high, it will keep you turning the pages into the night.
A massive thanks to Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for my advanced copy. Easy 5 ⭐️ Published on July 20th.
A couple on a killing spree across the country, think Bonnie and Clyde. They do.not hold back and show no mercy. Fox and Missy are on the run and know how it will end. The Hardwicke family have been through absolute hell and are headed for Scotland to see the dolphins. They stop at a remote hotel for the night where they meet Fox and Missy. Blue and Saul are on the case as well.
If you have read Fiona’s books before you will have met Saul and Blue. This. An be read as a stand alone without missing anything though. The tension throughout this book is so high, it will keep you turning the pages into the night.
A massive thanks to Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for my advanced copy. Easy 5 ⭐️ Published on July 20th.
January 5, 2025
Fans of the late, great Mo Hayder will find much to like in this ultra violent and gripping police thriller. Some great characters, especially the Hardwicke family, combined with excellent pacy writing helped the pages fly by.
However, my enjoyment was tempered somewhat , in relation to the central character Saul Anguish and his lover Blue, as I felt that their backstories and previous events had a bearing on the story but were not fully explored. Clearly, in my opinion, you will have needed to have read the previous book - Into the Dark.
Still, a decent read and I will definitely be putting all of Fiona Cummins’ books on my TBR list , especially Into The Dark.
3.75 ⭐️
However, my enjoyment was tempered somewhat , in relation to the central character Saul Anguish and his lover Blue, as I felt that their backstories and previous events had a bearing on the story but were not fully explored. Clearly, in my opinion, you will have needed to have read the previous book - Into the Dark.
Still, a decent read and I will definitely be putting all of Fiona Cummins’ books on my TBR list , especially Into The Dark.
3.75 ⭐️
August 6, 2023
I think the story would’ve benefited from a narrower focus. The intensity of what the Hardwicke family experiences would’ve been more resonant without all of the other distractions. All Of Us Are Broken didn’t quite live up to what I’d hoped from the moral dilemma promised in the blurb.
My full review of All Of Us Are Broken is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
My full review of All Of Us Are Broken is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
August 26, 2023
with a dinamite prologue
intense enough to fuel the
narrative towards a brilliant
end, this one is typical fiona:
the queen of foreshadowing. ♡
intense enough to fuel the
narrative towards a brilliant
end, this one is typical fiona:
the queen of foreshadowing. ♡
July 31, 2023
My Rating: 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ love this author love this ‘series’ even though its not a series as such!!!
The Hardwick family hasn’t been on a holiday in a really long time. 13 year old Galen has wanted to see wild dolphins at Scotland’s Chanonry Point for as long as she can remember. Her mother, Christine, is determined to give her this wish. Their serene family holiday is about to be violently interrupted.
DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-cop in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex. What he uncovers is their very own modern day Bonny and Clyde situation. Missy and Fox are hell bent on being infamous and are etching this fame in blood right into the paths of the Hardwick family holiday.
When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue arrive on scene they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice. Everyone is hiding something… but can DC Anguish uncover the truth about this couple before the ghosts of his and everyone’s past implode.
First of all this is not going to be a 5 star in everyone’s book… but for me, while it had some moments that I may not have been so lenient with in other books, this one just had too much going for it and I was happy to ignore the imperfections.
Also I gobbled this up immediately, I had to wait like a pleb till this one was released because NetGalley said no way loser you are not approved…. So I paused everything and started this one straight away… I was not disappointed.
I love Fiona Cummins, she hasn’t really let me down… I love her writing style. Even though this book too the scenic route a little bit, that was intentional with the way certain aspects of it were written. Put it this way, lately my weeks have been so busy and intense that reading at night while I love it… has been 20mins if I am lucky before I am out cold… this book… I finished in a few days during the week… I did not want to put it down!!!
As with any book that DC Anguish appears in it is a ‘series’ in the way that he has been in a couple of books as a police officers but appears in a very different way (as a teen) in The Bone Collector series by Cummins. And while you do not need to read any of these books to enjoy this particular one… I would recommend it… firstly because they are good… but secondly because they have little Easter eggs thrown in and you might enjoy the character development.
Personally it is one of my fave bits of these books, it feels like a secret that the author is telling you as the reader, because she has never outlined THIS IS THE KID FROM THOSE FIRST TWO BOOKS YOU READ OF MINE… and that is why this author really hooks me because she trusts that the reader can follow the story… and not hold my hand the whole way spelling it out letter to the editor style.
The opening scene was gut wrenching and of course it begins at a pivotal moment in the book… and then we go back 13 hours and relive the moments leading up to this event… not knowing the outcome. So already from the jump you are like WTF is going to happen… tell me immediately. Loved this it built so much tension…
The baddies are Missy and Fox and they are basically a modern day Bonny and Clyde and I do not mind that they were written similarly because the author in her acknowledgements tells us she is fascinated by the story of those infamous criminals and did in fact base her characters off them… and gave us a good book rec if we were so inclined to read it…. I appreciate a well thought out nod to infamy. They played the part extremely well… and I really liked how they developed into truly evil baddies.
Saul and Blue didn’t get as much air time in this book which makes me hope there is more for them in perhaps another novel soon. Their story is weird and seems disjointed… but in true Cummins fashion, you don’t get everything spelt out for you, you have to be paying attention… which I really liked and we do get to the bottom of it eventually… although the ‘darkness’ in both of them is very prevalent, which makes it all the more interesting.
The Hardwick… oh my heart. I will admit that I did shed some tears at the end… their story is heartbreaking from woe to go… I am not going to say much more because I don’t want to do spoilers but I loved Galen, what a tough and beautiful soul she is… ❤️🩹
Overall there is not much more to say other than I really enjoyed this… I really love this author and I hope there is more from her. Would I recommend… absolutely …. I do recommend starting at the very start… with Rattle and The Collector. But you could just as easily read Into the Dark and this one and have a great time. For an even better time read them all 🤣
A sneaky shoutout to her standalone novel When I Was Ten because I really loved that one as well.
Enjoy GR Friends - Happy Reading 🩷
The Hardwick family hasn’t been on a holiday in a really long time. 13 year old Galen has wanted to see wild dolphins at Scotland’s Chanonry Point for as long as she can remember. Her mother, Christine, is determined to give her this wish. Their serene family holiday is about to be violently interrupted.
DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-cop in Midtown-on-Sea, Essex. What he uncovers is their very own modern day Bonny and Clyde situation. Missy and Fox are hell bent on being infamous and are etching this fame in blood right into the paths of the Hardwick family holiday.
When Saul and his forensic linguist partner, Blue arrive on scene they witness the unthinkable: a mother forced to make an impossible choice. Everyone is hiding something… but can DC Anguish uncover the truth about this couple before the ghosts of his and everyone’s past implode.
First of all this is not going to be a 5 star in everyone’s book… but for me, while it had some moments that I may not have been so lenient with in other books, this one just had too much going for it and I was happy to ignore the imperfections.
Also I gobbled this up immediately, I had to wait like a pleb till this one was released because NetGalley said no way loser you are not approved…. So I paused everything and started this one straight away… I was not disappointed.
I love Fiona Cummins, she hasn’t really let me down… I love her writing style. Even though this book too the scenic route a little bit, that was intentional with the way certain aspects of it were written. Put it this way, lately my weeks have been so busy and intense that reading at night while I love it… has been 20mins if I am lucky before I am out cold… this book… I finished in a few days during the week… I did not want to put it down!!!
As with any book that DC Anguish appears in it is a ‘series’ in the way that he has been in a couple of books as a police officers but appears in a very different way (as a teen) in The Bone Collector series by Cummins. And while you do not need to read any of these books to enjoy this particular one… I would recommend it… firstly because they are good… but secondly because they have little Easter eggs thrown in and you might enjoy the character development.
Personally it is one of my fave bits of these books, it feels like a secret that the author is telling you as the reader, because she has never outlined THIS IS THE KID FROM THOSE FIRST TWO BOOKS YOU READ OF MINE… and that is why this author really hooks me because she trusts that the reader can follow the story… and not hold my hand the whole way spelling it out letter to the editor style.
The opening scene was gut wrenching and of course it begins at a pivotal moment in the book… and then we go back 13 hours and relive the moments leading up to this event… not knowing the outcome. So already from the jump you are like WTF is going to happen… tell me immediately. Loved this it built so much tension…
The baddies are Missy and Fox and they are basically a modern day Bonny and Clyde and I do not mind that they were written similarly because the author in her acknowledgements tells us she is fascinated by the story of those infamous criminals and did in fact base her characters off them… and gave us a good book rec if we were so inclined to read it…. I appreciate a well thought out nod to infamy. They played the part extremely well… and I really liked how they developed into truly evil baddies.
Saul and Blue didn’t get as much air time in this book which makes me hope there is more for them in perhaps another novel soon. Their story is weird and seems disjointed… but in true Cummins fashion, you don’t get everything spelt out for you, you have to be paying attention… which I really liked and we do get to the bottom of it eventually… although the ‘darkness’ in both of them is very prevalent, which makes it all the more interesting.
The Hardwick… oh my heart. I will admit that I did shed some tears at the end… their story is heartbreaking from woe to go… I am not going to say much more because I don’t want to do spoilers but I loved Galen, what a tough and beautiful soul she is… ❤️🩹
Overall there is not much more to say other than I really enjoyed this… I really love this author and I hope there is more from her. Would I recommend… absolutely …. I do recommend starting at the very start… with Rattle and The Collector. But you could just as easily read Into the Dark and this one and have a great time. For an even better time read them all 🤣
A sneaky shoutout to her standalone novel When I Was Ten because I really loved that one as well.
Enjoy GR Friends - Happy Reading 🩷
July 18, 2023
I do not think I have ever read a crime novel so utterly dark and brutal, but also so devastatingly emotional. All of Us Are Broken is exceptional.
Christine is taking a holiday in the Scottish Highlands with her two children, Galen and Tom. But it turns disastrous and Christine is forced to make an impossible decision.
Two killers, with a passion for being known as a modern day Bonnie and Clyde, are rampaging across the country, and leaving a stream of dead bodies in their wake.
Meanwhile Detective Saul Anguish and colleague, Blue, must lay their ghosts to rest to stop the killers.
Wow. I just don’t know what more to say. I’m still emotional now, writing up this review. If you love your books dark, and if you can deal with violent devastation, but maybe can deal with a break in your heart too, this book is for you. Bloody brilliant!!!
Christine is taking a holiday in the Scottish Highlands with her two children, Galen and Tom. But it turns disastrous and Christine is forced to make an impossible decision.
Two killers, with a passion for being known as a modern day Bonnie and Clyde, are rampaging across the country, and leaving a stream of dead bodies in their wake.
Meanwhile Detective Saul Anguish and colleague, Blue, must lay their ghosts to rest to stop the killers.
Wow. I just don’t know what more to say. I’m still emotional now, writing up this review. If you love your books dark, and if you can deal with violent devastation, but maybe can deal with a break in your heart too, this book is for you. Bloody brilliant!!!
August 10, 2023
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
What a ride, if you love your thrillers dark and heart stopping choose this book! All Of Us Are Broken by Fiona Cummins certainly packs a punch and has a Bonnie & Clyde vibe.
Missy and Fox are unleashing hell on earth as they go on a spree of pure violence craving infamy.
DC Saul Anguish is a brilliant young detective with a dark past and is on the hunt for Missy and Fox along with Dr Clover March a forensic linguist. Dr Clover in an intriguing character who suffers from narcolepsy.
Christine mother to daughter Galen, thirteen and son Tom, eight is taking the children on a trip to Scotland after a difficult time. Christine is given an unimaginable choice no parent should ever have to make.
There is plenty of suspense and shocks in the story and a level of evil you won’t believe. A winner for me! Fiona Cummins is certainly the Queen of white knuckles and darkness. I’m also loving the characters of Saul and Clover again who were teamed up in the last book Into The Dark!
Publication Date 25 July 2023
Publisher Pan Macmillan Australia
A huge thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia for a copy of the book.
What a ride, if you love your thrillers dark and heart stopping choose this book! All Of Us Are Broken by Fiona Cummins certainly packs a punch and has a Bonnie & Clyde vibe.
Missy and Fox are unleashing hell on earth as they go on a spree of pure violence craving infamy.
DC Saul Anguish is a brilliant young detective with a dark past and is on the hunt for Missy and Fox along with Dr Clover March a forensic linguist. Dr Clover in an intriguing character who suffers from narcolepsy.
Christine mother to daughter Galen, thirteen and son Tom, eight is taking the children on a trip to Scotland after a difficult time. Christine is given an unimaginable choice no parent should ever have to make.
There is plenty of suspense and shocks in the story and a level of evil you won’t believe. A winner for me! Fiona Cummins is certainly the Queen of white knuckles and darkness. I’m also loving the characters of Saul and Clover again who were teamed up in the last book Into The Dark!
Publication Date 25 July 2023
Publisher Pan Macmillan Australia
A huge thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia for a copy of the book.
September 18, 2023
*Compelling Thriller*
‼️Triggers, sexual abuse, rape, child cruelty‼️
Well, there is too much to say about this thriller without giving the story away. This is a clever twisted story. The author Fiona Cummins does not shy away from describing details of the crimes.
A family in mourning for almost a year. The father now departed with the mother Christine deciding to take her two children Galen and Tom to Scotland. Unbeknownst to them this would turn out to be a horror show and Christine will be forced to make an impossible choice as two out of control psychopaths calling themselves Missy & Fox are about to wreak havoc wherever they stop. They think of themselves as a modern day Bonnie & Clyde who know how it will end and relish it. The whole thing just gives them a buzz and they like most psychopaths who I think overlap with sociopaths there is no remorse…
The feel of the book is tense and gripping, the audio narration is just right for me I recommend adding it even though the subject matter is very dark it drew me in.
DC Saul Anguish is a talented officer with a rare gift of reading situations but also has a dark side along with his friend and more called Dr Clover March (Aka Blue)who is a forensic linguist she too has her own demons but they get each other. He has been given a risky task that may mean he is no more
With with bodies dropping all over the country how will this Thriller draw to a conclusion… who will be left standing???
‼️Triggers, sexual abuse, rape, child cruelty‼️
Well, there is too much to say about this thriller without giving the story away. This is a clever twisted story. The author Fiona Cummins does not shy away from describing details of the crimes.
A family in mourning for almost a year. The father now departed with the mother Christine deciding to take her two children Galen and Tom to Scotland. Unbeknownst to them this would turn out to be a horror show and Christine will be forced to make an impossible choice as two out of control psychopaths calling themselves Missy & Fox are about to wreak havoc wherever they stop. They think of themselves as a modern day Bonnie & Clyde who know how it will end and relish it. The whole thing just gives them a buzz and they like most psychopaths who I think overlap with sociopaths there is no remorse…
The feel of the book is tense and gripping, the audio narration is just right for me I recommend adding it even though the subject matter is very dark it drew me in.
DC Saul Anguish is a talented officer with a rare gift of reading situations but also has a dark side along with his friend and more called Dr Clover March (Aka Blue)who is a forensic linguist she too has her own demons but they get each other. He has been given a risky task that may mean he is no more
With with bodies dropping all over the country how will this Thriller draw to a conclusion… who will be left standing???
July 19, 2023
This is a gripping, fast paced crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
There’s two strands to this story - Christine and her children, Galen and Tom who are heading to the Highlands to see the dolphins and Missy and Fox who are also heading to the Highlands following a killing spree.
Fox will kill anyone who gets in his way and Missy is so besotted by him that she soon follows suit.
Unfortunately for Christine and her family their paths cross with Fox and Missy which leads to a nail biting confrontation.
DC Saul Anguish is hot on their tail but will he get there in time to safe their lives?
This is a gripping crime thriller that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
There’s two strands to this story - Christine and her children, Galen and Tom who are heading to the Highlands to see the dolphins and Missy and Fox who are also heading to the Highlands following a killing spree.
Fox will kill anyone who gets in his way and Missy is so besotted by him that she soon follows suit.
Unfortunately for Christine and her family their paths cross with Fox and Missy which leads to a nail biting confrontation.
DC Saul Anguish is hot on their tail but will he get there in time to safe their lives?
This is a gripping crime thriller that I’d highly recommend.
Thanks to Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
April 28, 2023
OMG Fiona Cummins never fails to amaze me! I knew All Of Us Are Broken would be an enjoyable crime read as she’s such a wonderful storyteller. But what I wasn’t expecting was a phenomenal crime thriller, which evoked so many emotions! I even shed a tear or two! This has to be the most dramatic “race against time,” crime thriller I’ve EVER had the pleasure to read. From the outset, you could cut the tension with a knife.
DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer. He quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings and he faces a race against time to stop a brutal and bloody killing spree. The shocking prologue to All Of Us Are Broken is one that grabs your attention from the off. There’s a sense of malevolence which oozes from the pages.
The characters are multilayered. Each one is impeccably crafted. Some will find their way into your hearts, others will send shivers down your spine with their evil intent. I don’t think I have ever encountered such evil, cold, calculating individuals in fiction, and that's saying something! I was rooting for Anguish throughout. Fiona Cummins expertly uses the ‘race against time’ ploy to add a sense of urgency to the plot that never diminishes. The reader knows from the start that if Saul isn’t able to stop the killers, an impossible choice will have to be made. It’s very cleverly done as the author plays on the reader’s fear of helplessness!
I’m going to say All Of Us Are Broken is Fiona Cummins best book yet! She skillfully peels back the layers to reveal an intricate and deliciously twisted tale that will blow your socks off! Unsettling, heartbreaking, sinister and darkly disturbing. All Of Us Are Broken is one of the best crime thrillers I’ve read in a long, long time.
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
DC Saul Anguish is called to investigate the shooting of an ex-police officer. He quickly discovers that this is the first in a string of killings and he faces a race against time to stop a brutal and bloody killing spree. The shocking prologue to All Of Us Are Broken is one that grabs your attention from the off. There’s a sense of malevolence which oozes from the pages.
The characters are multilayered. Each one is impeccably crafted. Some will find their way into your hearts, others will send shivers down your spine with their evil intent. I don’t think I have ever encountered such evil, cold, calculating individuals in fiction, and that's saying something! I was rooting for Anguish throughout. Fiona Cummins expertly uses the ‘race against time’ ploy to add a sense of urgency to the plot that never diminishes. The reader knows from the start that if Saul isn’t able to stop the killers, an impossible choice will have to be made. It’s very cleverly done as the author plays on the reader’s fear of helplessness!
I’m going to say All Of Us Are Broken is Fiona Cummins best book yet! She skillfully peels back the layers to reveal an intricate and deliciously twisted tale that will blow your socks off! Unsettling, heartbreaking, sinister and darkly disturbing. All Of Us Are Broken is one of the best crime thrillers I’ve read in a long, long time.
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
August 19, 2023
4/ 5
Wow, considering how much I disliked the previous book into the dark, this is different. It’s almost as though you can read this as a standalone novel. I was gripped, and intrigued with how the plot would develop. This book is a short read, just over 300 pages so if you’re looking for a gripping read this is it.
The book followed after the previous book where we follow Saul Anguish and Blue (Dr Clover Marsh). Christine Hardwicke and her kids Galen and Tom leave early in the morning to travel to Chanonry Point in Scotland’s Black Isle. A troubled couple, Fox and Missy become rampant and starts killing people they cross past with after Missy reaches a breaking point during work as a primary school teacher under probation. Similar to Bonne and Clyde. Annguish is called on scene when a man is shot dead point blanc in the kitchen linking back to Missy. The Hardwicke family crosses path with Fox and Missy in Scotland where Anguish and his team are forced to deal with the event.
This was a grilling read, although we still have some questionable policing procedures the plot made up for it. I didn’t think I’d like this book but I’m been surprised at how well the book is written, mixed with the scenic descriptions of Scotland. I think what’s intriguing about this plot is that we get a better understanding of Anguish and Blue and why they are who they are which I think we didn’t get much of in the previous book. Overall it’s a thrilling read, highly recommend!
Wow, considering how much I disliked the previous book into the dark, this is different. It’s almost as though you can read this as a standalone novel. I was gripped, and intrigued with how the plot would develop. This book is a short read, just over 300 pages so if you’re looking for a gripping read this is it.
The book followed after the previous book where we follow Saul Anguish and Blue (Dr Clover Marsh). Christine Hardwicke and her kids Galen and Tom leave early in the morning to travel to Chanonry Point in Scotland’s Black Isle. A troubled couple, Fox and Missy become rampant and starts killing people they cross past with after Missy reaches a breaking point during work as a primary school teacher under probation. Similar to Bonne and Clyde. Annguish is called on scene when a man is shot dead point blanc in the kitchen linking back to Missy. The Hardwicke family crosses path with Fox and Missy in Scotland where Anguish and his team are forced to deal with the event.
This was a grilling read, although we still have some questionable policing procedures the plot made up for it. I didn’t think I’d like this book but I’m been surprised at how well the book is written, mixed with the scenic descriptions of Scotland. I think what’s intriguing about this plot is that we get a better understanding of Anguish and Blue and why they are who they are which I think we didn’t get much of in the previous book. Overall it’s a thrilling read, highly recommend!
June 19, 2025
Another stonker of a book by Fiona Cummins, I’m really loving this author’s work.
A dark and disturbing, fast paced thriller, with two extremely disturbed individuals, Fox and Missy, intent on wreaking damage and destruction to all that cross their path, on the road to infamy. A modern day Bonnie and Clyde.
The Hardwicke family, already with tragedy in their past are a family that gets in Fox and Missy’s way, and their story will have you really rooting for the Hardwickes.
We also find out a little more about DC Saul Anguish and Blue (aka Dr Clover March), as this is the second book where their characters have appeared. Both have their own demons to slay, and it makes for an interesting secondary storyline.
It was a compelling read, kept me on the edge of my seat and completely engrossed.
4.5 stars, rounded down. ⭐️
A dark and disturbing, fast paced thriller, with two extremely disturbed individuals, Fox and Missy, intent on wreaking damage and destruction to all that cross their path, on the road to infamy. A modern day Bonnie and Clyde.
The Hardwicke family, already with tragedy in their past are a family that gets in Fox and Missy’s way, and their story will have you really rooting for the Hardwickes.
We also find out a little more about DC Saul Anguish and Blue (aka Dr Clover March), as this is the second book where their characters have appeared. Both have their own demons to slay, and it makes for an interesting secondary storyline.
It was a compelling read, kept me on the edge of my seat and completely engrossed.
4.5 stars, rounded down. ⭐️
Read
April 5, 2023Oh my Lord. This novel is so brilliantly paced, so tense, and so utterly nail-biting, when I finished the last page it felt as though I had just stepped off a ride at Alton Towers. I went, as I always do, to choose my next read from the shelves ... but I had to take a little break just to gather my thoughts before I moved on. ALL OF US ARE BROKEN begins with one of the most dramatic, stomach-churning scenes I've ever read, which I will not spoil for you but after that first chapter I genuinely said an out loud 'WOW'. Fiona Cummins doesn't just draw you into a story, she grabs you will all her strength and pulls you right in.
The story begins with Christine Hardwicke and her two young children, who are driving to Scotland for a much needed break after Christine's husband has left them. The trip begins well, but little do the Hardwicke family know, a young couple, Missy and Fox, are also heading north of the border, and the novel - which feels as though you are reading in real-time - covers the journeys of both unconnected parties, until their worlds inevitably collide. Missy and Fox, hell bent on notoriety, are leaving havoc in their path, which is where DC Saul Anguish steps into the story, chasing the two fugitives as they head north, whilst keeping his DI's recently disclosed secret very close to his chest. Meanwhile, Christine and her children, blissfully unaware of the unfolding terror, are walking right into their biggest nightmare ...
This is the second Saul Anguish novel from Fiona. I loved the first (INTO THE DARK) and I was very glad to see him reappear. He's such a complex character and whilst his actions might not always stick to the letter of the law, he's fascinating to read and I'm sure a lot of fun to write. Because this story covers a short time-frame, it feels even more pacy than INTO THE DARK (which was fast moving in itself!) and there are some absolutely heart stopping moments in the story. If you love thrillers, you'll adore this. A credit to Fiona Cummins, she has picked a really emotive topic for this novel, but has managed to write it with integrity and respect, but still make it an absolutely corking thriller. I felt like I'd held my breath for 300 pages and I loved it.
The story begins with Christine Hardwicke and her two young children, who are driving to Scotland for a much needed break after Christine's husband has left them. The trip begins well, but little do the Hardwicke family know, a young couple, Missy and Fox, are also heading north of the border, and the novel - which feels as though you are reading in real-time - covers the journeys of both unconnected parties, until their worlds inevitably collide. Missy and Fox, hell bent on notoriety, are leaving havoc in their path, which is where DC Saul Anguish steps into the story, chasing the two fugitives as they head north, whilst keeping his DI's recently disclosed secret very close to his chest. Meanwhile, Christine and her children, blissfully unaware of the unfolding terror, are walking right into their biggest nightmare ...
This is the second Saul Anguish novel from Fiona. I loved the first (INTO THE DARK) and I was very glad to see him reappear. He's such a complex character and whilst his actions might not always stick to the letter of the law, he's fascinating to read and I'm sure a lot of fun to write. Because this story covers a short time-frame, it feels even more pacy than INTO THE DARK (which was fast moving in itself!) and there are some absolutely heart stopping moments in the story. If you love thrillers, you'll adore this. A credit to Fiona Cummins, she has picked a really emotive topic for this novel, but has managed to write it with integrity and respect, but still make it an absolutely corking thriller. I felt like I'd held my breath for 300 pages and I loved it.
December 1, 2023
All Of Us Are Broken by Fiona Cummins is a well-written thriller/suspense novel that will leave you wanting more. I came across this book at my library and the title had me intrigued.
This book did not disappoint it was action-packed and the intensity was right up there. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you are looking for a book that will take you on a wild journey this one is for you. Highly recommended.
This book did not disappoint it was action-packed and the intensity was right up there. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you are looking for a book that will take you on a wild journey this one is for you. Highly recommended.
August 22, 2023
All I can say, is aside from a dramatic and truly dark thriller, expect your heart to be broken a million times over! I bawled - not something you often expect from a crime novel. If there is one book you pick up this year, make it All of us Are Broken.
There are three strands within the narrative, all inexplicably linked . A mother forced to make an impossible decision. Two broken souls meet up, hell bent on becoming the modern day Bonnie and Clyde. And the return of forensic linguist Blue and Detective Saul Anguish returning from Into The Dark.
I’m still stumped after finishing and pretty raw with emotion after a stunning, impactful read with an ending that left me gasping! It’s intense, disturbing, brutal and utterly compelling. Brilliant writing with vivid scenery of the Scottish highlands, this absolute cracking read will be in my top ten this year.
There are three strands within the narrative, all inexplicably linked . A mother forced to make an impossible decision. Two broken souls meet up, hell bent on becoming the modern day Bonnie and Clyde. And the return of forensic linguist Blue and Detective Saul Anguish returning from Into The Dark.
I’m still stumped after finishing and pretty raw with emotion after a stunning, impactful read with an ending that left me gasping! It’s intense, disturbing, brutal and utterly compelling. Brilliant writing with vivid scenery of the Scottish highlands, this absolute cracking read will be in my top ten this year.
April 10, 2023
3.5 stars rounded down
Not a bad thriller, but a bit over the top in my opinion. The characters felt exaggerated and a bit too stereotypical. Nevertheless, the plot was interesting and unpredictable enough, which is what you look for in a thriller. Good, gripping ending.
Not a bad thriller, but a bit over the top in my opinion. The characters felt exaggerated and a bit too stereotypical. Nevertheless, the plot was interesting and unpredictable enough, which is what you look for in a thriller. Good, gripping ending.
Read
April 15, 2024No rating as did not finish. Read approx 80 pages before deciding not for me. Could not get into the storyline as it felt really dramatic, particularly the 'villian' perspective. I realised I also didn't enjoy another book by this author so perhaps her style is just not for me as it seems her books are fairly highly rated and many other readers enjoy them.
August 16, 2023
It starts off with a hostage situation and this is only the beginning of one hell of a read. This read had me glued to my seat and tapping my kindle like a demented woodpecker. I could not put this book down. Original plot, great characters and a storyline that kept me reading late into the night. I had to know the TRUTH!!!!!. A first rate police procedural, full of misdirection that had me constantly changing my mind. A tour de force of of a crime thriller and a must read for all lovers of this genre.
Thanks to Netgalley for the Arc.
Thanks to Netgalley for the Arc.
July 29, 2023
All Of Us Are Broken is a modern day retelling of Bonnie & Clyde, minus the bank robberies but including a large amount of dead bodies. I did get some personal info about the victims so that it felt even worse that they were dead :-). This novel will certainly provoke heavy feelings with whoever is reading the story which is a positive thing but I forgot how it was to hate a character so much, and I was constantly weighing both of the villains against each other in an attempt to decide who was the worst and if either of them still had a shred of humanity in them.
The novel opens with a confrontation between Missy and Fox and the Hardwicke family. How could she was my initial reaction. See, Christine is a mother of two who is forced to make a life or death decision that will alter the lives of her and her children forever. She has to pick a child to die and one to save. Can you imagine? How do you choose in three counts? And then I was shocked and baffled by her reaction...
Before I could find out more and see the consequences of that reaction the story circled back to the beginning, with the Hardwickes starting their roadtrip and Melissa (Missy) having a terrible day at the primary school where it all goes wrong for her. Her career over, she has nothing left to lose and she goes after the thing she's always dreamt of, being famous. Dashiel Lloyd or Fox was an evil child by the age of 14 so she's found her perfect match and together they literally go on a killing spree with their only goal to become legends.
I felt that Missy was the dominant partner in all of this and she's just plain evil. Fox was a bit of a follower so I felt he wasn't the same level of evil, until he went after a child. It's just such a big taboo in books isn't it? Children and animals can't be touched in books, well guess what, this author isn't playing by the rules. Suffice to say that the shocks in this novel were plenty and as the novel enters its final setting at the Lodge on the Loch where I knew the confrontation with the family would happen I was very on edge. I knew by then who we were dealing with and that they wouldn't bat an eye killing someone.
All my hope was set on the detective Saul Anguish and his younger partner Alex Talbot who were in pursuit of those two. There's also a forensic linguist 'Blue' involved which was an original angle even though I didn't really see why she needed to be in the field. Personally I was drawn more into the other plotlines.
The final chapters made me fear for everyone alive and staying at the hotel. I did enjoy those very tense moments where I knew things were going to come to a head. The thread about Galen's bullying surprised me the most and was brilliantly used in the whole picture.
Overall not a bad novel but I'm not such a fan of shooters (film or book) and I had hoped I'd see some good in Missy and Fox which proved impossible. Fiona Cummins is the Dark Queen and she certainly honours that title with this novel.
The novel opens with a confrontation between Missy and Fox and the Hardwicke family. How could she was my initial reaction. See, Christine is a mother of two who is forced to make a life or death decision that will alter the lives of her and her children forever. She has to pick a child to die and one to save. Can you imagine? How do you choose in three counts? And then I was shocked and baffled by her reaction...
Before I could find out more and see the consequences of that reaction the story circled back to the beginning, with the Hardwickes starting their roadtrip and Melissa (Missy) having a terrible day at the primary school where it all goes wrong for her. Her career over, she has nothing left to lose and she goes after the thing she's always dreamt of, being famous. Dashiel Lloyd or Fox was an evil child by the age of 14 so she's found her perfect match and together they literally go on a killing spree with their only goal to become legends.
I felt that Missy was the dominant partner in all of this and she's just plain evil. Fox was a bit of a follower so I felt he wasn't the same level of evil, until he went after a child. It's just such a big taboo in books isn't it? Children and animals can't be touched in books, well guess what, this author isn't playing by the rules. Suffice to say that the shocks in this novel were plenty and as the novel enters its final setting at the Lodge on the Loch where I knew the confrontation with the family would happen I was very on edge. I knew by then who we were dealing with and that they wouldn't bat an eye killing someone.
All my hope was set on the detective Saul Anguish and his younger partner Alex Talbot who were in pursuit of those two. There's also a forensic linguist 'Blue' involved which was an original angle even though I didn't really see why she needed to be in the field. Personally I was drawn more into the other plotlines.
The final chapters made me fear for everyone alive and staying at the hotel. I did enjoy those very tense moments where I knew things were going to come to a head. The thread about Galen's bullying surprised me the most and was brilliantly used in the whole picture.
Overall not a bad novel but I'm not such a fan of shooters (film or book) and I had hoped I'd see some good in Missy and Fox which proved impossible. Fiona Cummins is the Dark Queen and she certainly honours that title with this novel.
October 20, 2023
Ah, this one was just so good. Edge of your seat, gripping, harrowing stuff, and I was totally here for it. I love this author, and I'll always pick up anything that is published with her name on it.
October 29, 2023
So what, the more psychopathy and deranged-ness there is in the plot the higher the star rating we give the book? I don't wanna play.
(By the way the narrator is top notch).
The writing and the audio performance are the reason for 2 stars. And the red head Clyde. Everyone else I didn't give 2 straws about in this book. All the happenings except for the killing spree were convoluted.
And there should be trigger warnings for on page violence against children. I better stop writing this or I will drop the rating to 1 star.
(By the way the narrator is top notch).
The writing and the audio performance are the reason for 2 stars. And the red head Clyde. Everyone else I didn't give 2 straws about in this book. All the happenings except for the killing spree were convoluted.
And there should be trigger warnings for on page violence against children. I better stop writing this or I will drop the rating to 1 star.
July 23, 2023
Where to even begin with this book! Never ever has a prologue had me gripped, scared, intrigued and desperate to find out what happened in my 41 years! 😱😱😱
We have multiple story lines all leading up to the same event - for some, it’s absolute hysterical and maniacal pleasure, to others it’s absolute heartache and agony.
Christine, her son and daughter are travelling to north of Scotland for her daughter, Galen, to see the wild dolphins, which she’s always had her heart set on seeing. We see insights into their lives as they travel, with good details on characters and family dynamics and relationships.
Missy is our second perspective. She’s just walked out of her job as a school teacher following an accident in her class. She hooks up with an old lover and they become their own style of Bonnie and Clyde. On the run from police, they make their way to the north of Scotland.
Both parties arrive at the same hotel, where all hell has broken loose. But hot on their heals is DC Saul Anguish - a police officer with determination and an agenda of his own.
All 3 parties cross paths…wow!
After the prologue, I was worried the rest of the book wouldn’t live up to the hype or expectation, but it absolutely blew me away! Cummins shares great detail on her main characters, drip feeding us with information as we get to know them, but what I loved most was that even the smallest of characters have a little backstory, even though we’ve only had these characters in our lives for a few pages!
This was non-stop action. Unpredictable. Intense. Gut-wrenching. All of the above and more!
An easy 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We have multiple story lines all leading up to the same event - for some, it’s absolute hysterical and maniacal pleasure, to others it’s absolute heartache and agony.
Christine, her son and daughter are travelling to north of Scotland for her daughter, Galen, to see the wild dolphins, which she’s always had her heart set on seeing. We see insights into their lives as they travel, with good details on characters and family dynamics and relationships.
Missy is our second perspective. She’s just walked out of her job as a school teacher following an accident in her class. She hooks up with an old lover and they become their own style of Bonnie and Clyde. On the run from police, they make their way to the north of Scotland.
Both parties arrive at the same hotel, where all hell has broken loose. But hot on their heals is DC Saul Anguish - a police officer with determination and an agenda of his own.
All 3 parties cross paths…wow!
After the prologue, I was worried the rest of the book wouldn’t live up to the hype or expectation, but it absolutely blew me away! Cummins shares great detail on her main characters, drip feeding us with information as we get to know them, but what I loved most was that even the smallest of characters have a little backstory, even though we’ve only had these characters in our lives for a few pages!
This was non-stop action. Unpredictable. Intense. Gut-wrenching. All of the above and more!
An easy 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 5, 2023
I was so excited to start this book and once more be in the wonderful company of DC Saul Anguish and Clover (Blue) March two characters that I really do love and it was amazing !
This book I think is the best one I have read by this author it just had so much to give and whilst being a very gritty thriller it also has a much deeper side and I had tears in my eyes as I was reading the conclusion.
The main theme is a Bonnie and Clyde type couple who go on an indiscriminate killing spree that has no bounds, no one is safe, innocent victims lose their lives and it’s one heck of a gruesome non stop thrill of a journey right to the end
The writing is superb and Fiona Cummins has excelled herself in this latest 5 star thriller, I was sorry when the book ended as I loved everything about it and can’t wait for more from her, she is one of my favourite authors and never fails to have me glued to my kindle , long may the books continue and many thanks.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book I think is the best one I have read by this author it just had so much to give and whilst being a very gritty thriller it also has a much deeper side and I had tears in my eyes as I was reading the conclusion.
The main theme is a Bonnie and Clyde type couple who go on an indiscriminate killing spree that has no bounds, no one is safe, innocent victims lose their lives and it’s one heck of a gruesome non stop thrill of a journey right to the end
The writing is superb and Fiona Cummins has excelled herself in this latest 5 star thriller, I was sorry when the book ended as I loved everything about it and can’t wait for more from her, she is one of my favourite authors and never fails to have me glued to my kindle , long may the books continue and many thanks.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 23, 2024
3.5 Stars
August 6, 2023
I didn't want to stop reading this book, but I also wasn't picking it up at every opportunity like I would if I were properly engaged.
Even now, I'm struggling to put my finger on the reason why.
As readers, we knew a little about Missy and some of her history, but little about Fox. I just felt like they weren't meaty enough. I disliked them, but because I disliked their actions not because they were dislikable characters. They felt too insubstantial. It was their story, but more effort seemed to be put into giving their victims emotional impact rather than them.
Even when they were building on their relationship, it felt very tell don't show. I was told they were passionately in love, etc, but I didn't think we ever saw it in their actions. In essence, this was a romance story with a criminal plot, but that didn't really come across.
I loved the prologue. It made my maternal instincts scream. But by the time we had gone back over that same chapter at the end of the book, I had to say I'd lost interest a bit. Though their story as a family was emotional, it again just didn't excite me. Or engage me. I felt for them emotionally, but I didn't connect with them.
The Saul/Blue storyline and tbe O'Neill storyline felt terribly shoehorned in. Like the book needed some subplots, they were crammed in at the end in choppy, forced sections. The connection to O'Neill and the Blue storylines could have been totally removed, and the book would still stand.
In fact, the Blue storyline felt like it had been included just to add some more violence and shock factor into the book, which with the amount of Killings and.violence to children, it didn't need.
Yes. So. Not for me is the takeaway. Though I can understand why some reviews are higher.
Even now, I'm struggling to put my finger on the reason why.
As readers, we knew a little about Missy and some of her history, but little about Fox. I just felt like they weren't meaty enough. I disliked them, but because I disliked their actions not because they were dislikable characters. They felt too insubstantial. It was their story, but more effort seemed to be put into giving their victims emotional impact rather than them.
Even when they were building on their relationship, it felt very tell don't show. I was told they were passionately in love, etc, but I didn't think we ever saw it in their actions. In essence, this was a romance story with a criminal plot, but that didn't really come across.
I loved the prologue. It made my maternal instincts scream. But by the time we had gone back over that same chapter at the end of the book, I had to say I'd lost interest a bit. Though their story as a family was emotional, it again just didn't excite me. Or engage me. I felt for them emotionally, but I didn't connect with them.
The Saul/Blue storyline and tbe O'Neill storyline felt terribly shoehorned in. Like the book needed some subplots, they were crammed in at the end in choppy, forced sections. The connection to O'Neill and the Blue storylines could have been totally removed, and the book would still stand.
In fact, the Blue storyline felt like it had been included just to add some more violence and shock factor into the book, which with the amount of Killings and.violence to children, it didn't need.
Yes. So. Not for me is the takeaway. Though I can understand why some reviews are higher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2024
I feel a little mean rating this at two stars as it was well written and occasionally moving but I’m afraid it’s style and the premise of the story were a total anathema for me.
From the very first chapter the story lurches from one horribly gratuitously violent episode to another, sometimes physically so, other times psychologically. It felt like the author was plumbing the depths to try and shock but when we had reached the 4th bloodbath before the half way point it had lost all impact. Many characters simply appeared for a few pages simply to be massacred.
I can see why many reviewers gave this five stars as it was gripping at times and I had empathy with the Hardwick family, who at least survived long enough for an attachment to develop, but we all look for different things in a book and this certainly wasn’t for me.
3 out of 10
From the very first chapter the story lurches from one horribly gratuitously violent episode to another, sometimes physically so, other times psychologically. It felt like the author was plumbing the depths to try and shock but when we had reached the 4th bloodbath before the half way point it had lost all impact. Many characters simply appeared for a few pages simply to be massacred.
I can see why many reviewers gave this five stars as it was gripping at times and I had empathy with the Hardwick family, who at least survived long enough for an attachment to develop, but we all look for different things in a book and this certainly wasn’t for me.
3 out of 10
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