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Sheridan #1
One Scream Away
One step away...
Seven years ago Beth Denison was attacked by a killer named Chevy Bankes. Since then, she's created a new life for herself and her daughter. But now Bankes is out of prison and the gifts he sends her? disfigured dolls that carry the same mutilations as his victims? tells Beth he's coming for her.
One breath away...
Ex-FBI agent Neil Sheridan is driven to investigate a chain of murders that are eerily similar to a disturbing case from his past. When the killer's trail dead-ends at Beth's doorstep, Neil finds a beautiful woman with a secret she'll do anything to keep.
One scream away...
Yet even as Beth surrenders to Neil's protection, she can't tell him why Bankes hungers to hear her scream, and why she'll soon consider doing the unthinkable: face Bankes alone.
Seven years ago Beth Denison was attacked by a killer named Chevy Bankes. Since then, she's created a new life for herself and her daughter. But now Bankes is out of prison and the gifts he sends her? disfigured dolls that carry the same mutilations as his victims? tells Beth he's coming for her.
One breath away...
Ex-FBI agent Neil Sheridan is driven to investigate a chain of murders that are eerily similar to a disturbing case from his past. When the killer's trail dead-ends at Beth's doorstep, Neil finds a beautiful woman with a secret she'll do anything to keep.
One scream away...
Yet even as Beth surrenders to Neil's protection, she can't tell him why Bankes hungers to hear her scream, and why she'll soon consider doing the unthinkable: face Bankes alone.
432 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2009
43 people are currently reading
2608 people want to read
About the author
Kate Brady
11 books116 followersKate Brady began writing fiction when her doctoral research became tedious. For years, she wrote in the closet, penning several novels that—thankfully—remain there. Now, she leads a double life. Some days, she’s a choral conductor and professor of music education. Other days, she plays with imaginary people on her computer.
Kate lives in Atlanta with her husband, two children, and an array of furry, feathery, and scaly things. When she has time to read, her nose is most often found in a police story or gourmet cooking magazine! She is currently working on her next novel.
Kate lives in Atlanta with her husband, two children, and an array of furry, feathery, and scaly things. When she has time to read, her nose is most often found in a police story or gourmet cooking magazine! She is currently working on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
June 28, 2015
I think it was Kathleen's review of this book that brought it to my attention. I absolutely loved it. It had me on my toes all the time. Great main characters. The bad guy was a fucking psycho of the highest order. The romance or smexy times? Not a lot but I didn't care. I was gripped by the story from the word go and let it take me and my emotions with it to the end.
This was my first time reading this author. It sure won't be my last but I think I need something lighter for my next read.
Neil was sexy, smart and handsome. At a bit of a crossroads in his life. A former FBI agent, he left the force some years back after something happened.
I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this book. The plot, the writing, the characters were spot on for me.
I would have liked an epilogue with Beth and Neil but the epilogue that was there was interesting.
Look forward to reading the next in the series.
This was my first time reading this author. It sure won't be my last but I think I need something lighter for my next read.
Neil was sexy, smart and handsome. At a bit of a crossroads in his life. A former FBI agent, he left the force some years back after something happened.
I have absolutely nothing negative to say about this book. The plot, the writing, the characters were spot on for me.
I would have liked an epilogue with Beth and Neil but the epilogue that was there was interesting.
Look forward to reading the next in the series.
September 14, 2010
I LOVED this book! There was never a dull moment. The heroine went through a lot in this book and totally held it together. The hero was so caring and protective but he had his problems too. They worked them out fine by the end of the book for a totally HEA. The romance part of the book was well done but the heat was low. Those of you who know me know that I love my book's with lots of heat. Despite the fact of the very mild heat in this book, I loved it anyway's. The villain in this book was smart, scary gave me chills and was a total nut case. He was one of the most evil villains I have read to date. The story was so well done with twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. I know I will be reading the next book in this series, Last To Die, in the very near future.
September 29, 2009
Rating: 4.5 / 5
I'm always a little wary of trying new authors since I have no idea what I'm going to get, but this book was definitely a winner. Top-notch romantic suspense...which is my favorite romance sub-genre. So I was pleased all around.
Summary:
In One Scream Away, Beth Denison is an antiques expert living in Arlington, Virginia with her young daughter, trying to forget the horrible events of the past and the secrets that she kept. She'd kept quiet on a murder she'd witnessed, feeling guilt that she was partly to blame for what happened. But now, the man guilty of the murder is out of jail and coming for Beth. She believes he wants revenge solely on her for ruining his plans and for a dark secret she is keeping.
Neil Sheridan is an ex-FBI agent hitting rock bottom. Tragedy has caused him to turn off his emotions completely. Then he learns that a suspected murderer he'd killed in the line of duty may have actually been innocent (of that crime) because another body has turned up with eerie similarities. He's asked to consult with local authorities on the new, growing string of murders.
The authorities learn that their unknown serial killer has some connection to Beth, but she keeps denying it. She can't let anyone know her secrets. No matter how sexy she thinks Neil is, no matter how safe he makes her feel with his protective ways, she won't tell. At least, not until she learns that the man she thought was coming just for her is actually killing other woman along the way and sending her antique dolls after each murder. Beth knows she can't keep her secrets any longer, that she needs to tell all that happened so the police can put the man away. That doesn't mean she won't be ready for him when he comes for her...which she knows he still is. She'll do anything to protect her daughter and save herself. But Neil isn't about to let her face him alone. He'll do everything to keep her safe.
Review:
I read on the author's website that she started out writing suspense, playing around with writing in general before deciding to try out romantic suspense with this book. And it shows in the writing. The suspense aspect of the story is definitely the stronger part. There's still a pretty solid romance for the most part, but the suspense is top-notch.
The catching-a-serial-killer deal is by far not a new story idea. It's quite a popular one, but I thought author Kate Brady did an excellent job making the story unique, creative and engaging. The whole thing with the dolls was excellently done and really added a great dimension to the story.
There's not really a whodunit in the story; you know from the start who the bad guy is, but you don't know why everything is happening. The book is basically what will happen next and what's the reason for it all. And I thought it all flowed together nicely and the reasons for it all were interesting and fit perfectly with the story Brady created.
Overall, the suspense plot just really sucked me in and had me wanting to keep reading. It reminded me quite a bit of a Karen Rose book. It's not as darkly creepy...or rather it is really creepy, it just didn't have as much of a feeling dire darkness. But for you Karen Rose fans, I think you'd enjoy this book.
As for the romance...like I said above, there is definitely a romantic angle to the story, enough so that the romance fans should be satisfied, but it was an aspect I thought could have been better written. I didn't entirely feel the chemistry between Neil and Beth. Something about the way Brady wrote the romance felt like it forced them together just for the sake of having a romance in the book. The romance needed more build-up, more passion, and a more natural flow. But even so, the romance didn't suck. I didn't mind it, I just wasn't fully engaged in it. And for you fans of steamy sex...this book ranks more on the PG--PG-13 scale. It's pretty tame, but I didn't mind, really.
Hmm...what else to say. The book did frustrate me some in the beginning, first because the writing early on is a little choppy. But that improved as the book moved on. Then I got a little annoyed with the heroine and her secret keeping and refusing to clue the police in on what she knew. I wanted to bonk her on the head and tell her to spill it already. And I admit that the character of Beth on the whole was at times frustrating. She's an odd combination of super strong, independent woman, and borderline TSTL at times. I liked her, but I wouldn't ever list her as a favorite heroine of all the books I've read.
Neil, on the other hand...liked him a lot. His character could have been a little more developed emotionally, but he was a good character to read about. That poor man deserves to be happy.
There was one other thing that annoyed me a little, and that was how casually the death of a supporting character was treated. I just thought much more should have been made of it. Instead, it felt like a sidenote, which was disappointing for the character who died.
I also had conflicting feelings on the Epilogue, which does not feature the H/H but instead deals with a...well, I'll say a certain character. I wasn't sure what Brady's purpose was in writing the epilogue. Whether it was to answer a few final questions, or leave an opening for a future story. If it was to answer questions, then it did that well. Although it you aren't paying close enough attention, you can easily miss a crucial detail. I almost missed it. But if it was to leave an opening for another storyline...then I admit it would leave me grumbling, not wanting to wait for a later book.
All in all, even though there were a few aspects of the book that could have been better, they didn't really knock down my overall opinion of the book that much. They were mostly little things that kept me from absolutely LOVING this book. I did love it, but it just wasn't perfect.
If you're a fan of romantic suspense where there is a really strong suspense part of the story then I'd definitely recommend giving this book a try. I'm glad I picked it up randomly. It was well worth reading. I'm definitely looking forward to the second book in the series, featuring Neil's brother Mitch.
I'm always a little wary of trying new authors since I have no idea what I'm going to get, but this book was definitely a winner. Top-notch romantic suspense...which is my favorite romance sub-genre. So I was pleased all around.
Summary:
In One Scream Away, Beth Denison is an antiques expert living in Arlington, Virginia with her young daughter, trying to forget the horrible events of the past and the secrets that she kept. She'd kept quiet on a murder she'd witnessed, feeling guilt that she was partly to blame for what happened. But now, the man guilty of the murder is out of jail and coming for Beth. She believes he wants revenge solely on her for ruining his plans and for a dark secret she is keeping.
Neil Sheridan is an ex-FBI agent hitting rock bottom. Tragedy has caused him to turn off his emotions completely. Then he learns that a suspected murderer he'd killed in the line of duty may have actually been innocent (of that crime) because another body has turned up with eerie similarities. He's asked to consult with local authorities on the new, growing string of murders.
The authorities learn that their unknown serial killer has some connection to Beth, but she keeps denying it. She can't let anyone know her secrets. No matter how sexy she thinks Neil is, no matter how safe he makes her feel with his protective ways, she won't tell. At least, not until she learns that the man she thought was coming just for her is actually killing other woman along the way and sending her antique dolls after each murder. Beth knows she can't keep her secrets any longer, that she needs to tell all that happened so the police can put the man away. That doesn't mean she won't be ready for him when he comes for her...which she knows he still is. She'll do anything to protect her daughter and save herself. But Neil isn't about to let her face him alone. He'll do everything to keep her safe.
Review:
I read on the author's website that she started out writing suspense, playing around with writing in general before deciding to try out romantic suspense with this book. And it shows in the writing. The suspense aspect of the story is definitely the stronger part. There's still a pretty solid romance for the most part, but the suspense is top-notch.
The catching-a-serial-killer deal is by far not a new story idea. It's quite a popular one, but I thought author Kate Brady did an excellent job making the story unique, creative and engaging. The whole thing with the dolls was excellently done and really added a great dimension to the story.
There's not really a whodunit in the story; you know from the start who the bad guy is, but you don't know why everything is happening. The book is basically what will happen next and what's the reason for it all. And I thought it all flowed together nicely and the reasons for it all were interesting and fit perfectly with the story Brady created.
Overall, the suspense plot just really sucked me in and had me wanting to keep reading. It reminded me quite a bit of a Karen Rose book. It's not as darkly creepy...or rather it is really creepy, it just didn't have as much of a feeling dire darkness. But for you Karen Rose fans, I think you'd enjoy this book.
As for the romance...like I said above, there is definitely a romantic angle to the story, enough so that the romance fans should be satisfied, but it was an aspect I thought could have been better written. I didn't entirely feel the chemistry between Neil and Beth. Something about the way Brady wrote the romance felt like it forced them together just for the sake of having a romance in the book. The romance needed more build-up, more passion, and a more natural flow. But even so, the romance didn't suck. I didn't mind it, I just wasn't fully engaged in it. And for you fans of steamy sex...this book ranks more on the PG--PG-13 scale. It's pretty tame, but I didn't mind, really.
Hmm...what else to say. The book did frustrate me some in the beginning, first because the writing early on is a little choppy. But that improved as the book moved on. Then I got a little annoyed with the heroine and her secret keeping and refusing to clue the police in on what she knew. I wanted to bonk her on the head and tell her to spill it already. And I admit that the character of Beth on the whole was at times frustrating. She's an odd combination of super strong, independent woman, and borderline TSTL at times. I liked her, but I wouldn't ever list her as a favorite heroine of all the books I've read.
Neil, on the other hand...liked him a lot. His character could have been a little more developed emotionally, but he was a good character to read about. That poor man deserves to be happy.
There was one other thing that annoyed me a little, and that was how casually the death of a supporting character was treated. I just thought much more should have been made of it. Instead, it felt like a sidenote, which was disappointing for the character who died.
I also had conflicting feelings on the Epilogue, which does not feature the H/H but instead deals with a...well, I'll say a certain character. I wasn't sure what Brady's purpose was in writing the epilogue. Whether it was to answer a few final questions, or leave an opening for a future story. If it was to answer questions, then it did that well. Although it you aren't paying close enough attention, you can easily miss a crucial detail. I almost missed it. But if it was to leave an opening for another storyline...then I admit it would leave me grumbling, not wanting to wait for a later book.
All in all, even though there were a few aspects of the book that could have been better, they didn't really knock down my overall opinion of the book that much. They were mostly little things that kept me from absolutely LOVING this book. I did love it, but it just wasn't perfect.
If you're a fan of romantic suspense where there is a really strong suspense part of the story then I'd definitely recommend giving this book a try. I'm glad I picked it up randomly. It was well worth reading. I'm definitely looking forward to the second book in the series, featuring Neil's brother Mitch.
July 12, 2009
This was one heck of a book. It had everything I look for in a thriller.
Beth Denison's world falls apart (again). Chevy Bankes, the man who "let her get away" seven years ago is out of prison and is holding a grudge. Starting in Seattle, he's killing women, sending Beth dolls as testimony of his crimes. Moving closer to her with each kill.
Neil Sheridan, former FBI, is called on board when the Seattle murder rings enough bells to be similar to a case Neil'd been working on nine years prior. He'd shot the murderer then, but with each case more and more doubts arise. Did he get the wrong man?
Beth Denison seems to hold the main clue. Unfortunately, the woman won't cooperate and it's up to Neil to make her see the light. As Chevy slowly draws near, Beth and Neil have to work together, revealing dark secrets and painful pasts in hope of catching him.
Okay, so the summary sucks, but the book was wonderful. The suspense held from start to finish, slowly turning this romantic suspense novel into a true thriller.
The killer's identity is known from the first page, but that sure doesn't kill the suspense. Because with Chevy Banks the author created a wonderfully rounded character, twisted and creepy, yes, but also incredibly intelligent and resourceful, with a terrible childhood experience that shaped him into the strapping guy (notice the sarcasm) he is today. At times the reader finds it hard not to feel compassion toward him, which makes it for an even more exciting ride.
The other two leading characters (yes, you could call this one a threesome with the villain sharing equal on-screen time as the two leads) are greatly developped as well. Beth with her inner-strength, fueled by fear for her daughter, fear for her secret to be exposed, and bitter anger for what happened seven years ago, is wonderful. Though she may appear inconsistent at times, going from being strong, tough-as-nails, not needing anyone to a clingy, cowering mess of a woman, it still is consistent with what happened to her and the profile of abuse she's been through. She truly was a remarkable character.
Neil Sheridan is definitely on my top-heroes list. Scarred in and out, jaded and with his fuck-the-world attitude he seemed quite unlikely to slay Beth's dragons at first with all his doubts as to what side she was on. But as soon as she opened up, bam, he slapped his figurative armor on, pulled his figurative steed out of the figurative stable, and he was on a roll.
I loved the fact Ms. Brady didn't make him your regular knight in shining armor, the first time we meet him he's dead-drunk, fondling a woman who's name he doesn't know. Oh, he's a gem all right. But thanks to his friend and his deep-buried honor to see things through, to avenge the girl (first murdered girl) he presumably failed, he bounces back and shows us why he'd been the best in the Bureau.
And when he finally reveals his secret, the hints of which are sprinkled throughout the story, it's utterly heartbreaking and it justifies everything he's said or done and explains his dogged determination to do his damnedest to protect Beth and her daughter, Abby.
There was a line, something his former colleague said to him, in the book that pretty much summed it all up. Nine years ago the Bureau lost one of its best agents, but now, after all is finished, after all the demons (Neil's and Beth's) are slain, the Bureau might get its agent back. The author wrote in much better, though.
The romance was wonderfully subtle. Just a few heated kisses, bare hints to anything more, yet utterly "in character", consistent with the two characters. Anything more and the whole thing would go to posh. Kudos to the author for knowing how to maintain that fragile balance. Really masterfully executed.
What I loved most, though, was the sick little mouse-and-cat game between Chevy and the good guys. He was always a step ahead of everyone, almost as if he read their minds, knew what they'd do and anticipate them all. It was twisted, but it was marvelous to read, trying to guess what he'd do next, what plan he's devised. And to finally learn just who the heck "Jenny" was. We did, and let me tell you, I didn't see that one coming.
This was truly a wonderful debut novel. Major kudos to Kate Brady for thinking of this story and managing to keep it all in line. The characters were wonderful, the plot nicely-flowing, the suspense great...What more could you want. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
P.S. I can't wait for the next one.
Beth Denison's world falls apart (again). Chevy Bankes, the man who "let her get away" seven years ago is out of prison and is holding a grudge. Starting in Seattle, he's killing women, sending Beth dolls as testimony of his crimes. Moving closer to her with each kill.
Neil Sheridan, former FBI, is called on board when the Seattle murder rings enough bells to be similar to a case Neil'd been working on nine years prior. He'd shot the murderer then, but with each case more and more doubts arise. Did he get the wrong man?
Beth Denison seems to hold the main clue. Unfortunately, the woman won't cooperate and it's up to Neil to make her see the light. As Chevy slowly draws near, Beth and Neil have to work together, revealing dark secrets and painful pasts in hope of catching him.
Okay, so the summary sucks, but the book was wonderful. The suspense held from start to finish, slowly turning this romantic suspense novel into a true thriller.
The killer's identity is known from the first page, but that sure doesn't kill the suspense. Because with Chevy Banks the author created a wonderfully rounded character, twisted and creepy, yes, but also incredibly intelligent and resourceful, with a terrible childhood experience that shaped him into the strapping guy (notice the sarcasm) he is today. At times the reader finds it hard not to feel compassion toward him, which makes it for an even more exciting ride.
The other two leading characters (yes, you could call this one a threesome with the villain sharing equal on-screen time as the two leads) are greatly developped as well. Beth with her inner-strength, fueled by fear for her daughter, fear for her secret to be exposed, and bitter anger for what happened seven years ago, is wonderful. Though she may appear inconsistent at times, going from being strong, tough-as-nails, not needing anyone to a clingy, cowering mess of a woman, it still is consistent with what happened to her and the profile of abuse she's been through. She truly was a remarkable character.
Neil Sheridan is definitely on my top-heroes list. Scarred in and out, jaded and with his fuck-the-world attitude he seemed quite unlikely to slay Beth's dragons at first with all his doubts as to what side she was on. But as soon as she opened up, bam, he slapped his figurative armor on, pulled his figurative steed out of the figurative stable, and he was on a roll.
I loved the fact Ms. Brady didn't make him your regular knight in shining armor, the first time we meet him he's dead-drunk, fondling a woman who's name he doesn't know. Oh, he's a gem all right. But thanks to his friend and his deep-buried honor to see things through, to avenge the girl (first murdered girl) he presumably failed, he bounces back and shows us why he'd been the best in the Bureau.
And when he finally reveals his secret, the hints of which are sprinkled throughout the story, it's utterly heartbreaking and it justifies everything he's said or done and explains his dogged determination to do his damnedest to protect Beth and her daughter, Abby.
There was a line, something his former colleague said to him, in the book that pretty much summed it all up. Nine years ago the Bureau lost one of its best agents, but now, after all is finished, after all the demons (Neil's and Beth's) are slain, the Bureau might get its agent back. The author wrote in much better, though.
The romance was wonderfully subtle. Just a few heated kisses, bare hints to anything more, yet utterly "in character", consistent with the two characters. Anything more and the whole thing would go to posh. Kudos to the author for knowing how to maintain that fragile balance. Really masterfully executed.
What I loved most, though, was the sick little mouse-and-cat game between Chevy and the good guys. He was always a step ahead of everyone, almost as if he read their minds, knew what they'd do and anticipate them all. It was twisted, but it was marvelous to read, trying to guess what he'd do next, what plan he's devised. And to finally learn just who the heck "Jenny" was. We did, and let me tell you, I didn't see that one coming.
This was truly a wonderful debut novel. Major kudos to Kate Brady for thinking of this story and managing to keep it all in line. The characters were wonderful, the plot nicely-flowing, the suspense great...What more could you want. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
P.S. I can't wait for the next one.
October 15, 2009
Enjoyed this easy to read, modern, romantic suspense-thriller set in 2009. Most of the book takes place in Virginia, but other places are also mentioned throughout the U.S. as the serial killer moves in on his target (Beth Denison) to extract his revenge. The killer's name is given right away, so there is no guessing as to "who-done-it." The suspense came from the "messages" he left along with a trail of bodies, clues, and phone calls that led former FBI agent Neil Sheridan to Beth's doorstep.
Warning! There is one sick and twisted killer tucked between the pages. The author graphically detailed the killings, but not the rapes that also occurred.
The romance was all PG-13 and except for the graphic killings this would suitable for teenagers.
Nicely written and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
4 1/2 Stars
Warning! There is one sick and twisted killer tucked between the pages. The author graphically detailed the killings, but not the rapes that also occurred.
The romance was all PG-13 and except for the graphic killings this would suitable for teenagers.
Nicely written and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
4 1/2 Stars
January 26, 2015
WOW!!!
It took me long to read this book because the villain was really creepy. I read a few chapters a had to stop because I was holding my breth and chewing my nails so suspenseful it was! :)
Since the very beginning we know who the villain is, but still nobody can catch him. He's incredibly intelligent and full of clever ideas to evade the law! If was fascinating in a creepy way!
The romantic aspect of the story was so and so, but I realy didn't care about that so good the mistery, suspense part was!
So, if you want a really good suspense book with a trace of romance (where romance is almost insta-love... ) thi sone is perfect!
It took me long to read this book because the villain was really creepy. I read a few chapters a had to stop because I was holding my breth and chewing my nails so suspenseful it was! :)
Since the very beginning we know who the villain is, but still nobody can catch him. He's incredibly intelligent and full of clever ideas to evade the law! If was fascinating in a creepy way!
The romantic aspect of the story was so and so, but I realy didn't care about that so good the mistery, suspense part was!
So, if you want a really good suspense book with a trace of romance (where romance is almost insta-love... ) thi sone is perfect!
February 27, 2014
The past few years has not been kind to Neil Sheridan, spending most of his time with the bottle instead of finding something to live for. When his old friend shows up and needs his help on a case he had worked on and believed to be solved, he finds he web of betrayal stretches farther than he can reach.
Beth Denison has moved on with her life, she has a beautiful daughter and has filled her home with love, as well as made sure she trains daily to protect herself from any threat that may come her way. She knows killer Chevy Bankes may not be done with her, but she plans to fight to the death if he ever gets close.
Neil is sent to see what he can find out what the link between Chevy and Beth is, but finds that one reason he has been looking for to get his act together instead, Beth. Something about her and Abby draws him into instant protection mode and he doesn't plan to let go.
A spine chilling read. I was on the edge of my seat reading this roller coaster ride of a novel, as Chevy has his target in mind and plans to cause a lot of chaos on the way to retrieve it. The beginning is a bit confusing because there are so many players in this book, but by chapter 2 it all makes sense, tons of surprises add to the intensity of this read.
Beth Denison has moved on with her life, she has a beautiful daughter and has filled her home with love, as well as made sure she trains daily to protect herself from any threat that may come her way. She knows killer Chevy Bankes may not be done with her, but she plans to fight to the death if he ever gets close.
Neil is sent to see what he can find out what the link between Chevy and Beth is, but finds that one reason he has been looking for to get his act together instead, Beth. Something about her and Abby draws him into instant protection mode and he doesn't plan to let go.
A spine chilling read. I was on the edge of my seat reading this roller coaster ride of a novel, as Chevy has his target in mind and plans to cause a lot of chaos on the way to retrieve it. The beginning is a bit confusing because there are so many players in this book, but by chapter 2 it all makes sense, tons of surprises add to the intensity of this read.
August 2, 2020
2.5 Stars
March 15, 2018
4.5 Sterne
July 19, 2009
Years ago, Elizabeth Denison came in contact with her worst nightmare. She became the victim and obsession of serial killer Chevy Bankes. She survived…if you can call always being on alert and scared a better alternative. Bankes was caught and sentenced to prison. He is now out and ready to pick up where he left off.
Former FBI special agent Neil Sheridan has been asked by his best friend, Rick, who is a cop to help him on a murder case. At first Neil has no interest. That all changes when Neil learns that the murder victim’s face was cut up to look like a doll; in addition to being raped and shot to death. The case brings back bad memories for Neil. When he was still active, he had caught and killed a serial killer. He believed that the killer was dead but now it seems he might have killed the wrong man.
Elizabeth Denison receives a phone call one day. The caller is none other then Bankes. He tells her that he is out and he hopes to hear her scream once more for him. Beth fears for her and her daughter’s lives but she keeps her mouth shut about the phone call. The police discover that the murder victim’s cell phone was used. The last call made on it was to a Beth Denison. Beth plans to take out Bankes herself but will her silence be deadly?
One Scream Away is what I call a good time. I just about read this book in one sitting. Both my eyes and hands were glued to the book. The sparks that Beth and Neil shared were really good. I liked that that the story line didn’t veer too far from the murderer and the characters and head more into a romance between Neil and Beth. While I do enjoy romantic suspenses; I like when they are evenly balanced. I scream for more Kate Brady!
Former FBI special agent Neil Sheridan has been asked by his best friend, Rick, who is a cop to help him on a murder case. At first Neil has no interest. That all changes when Neil learns that the murder victim’s face was cut up to look like a doll; in addition to being raped and shot to death. The case brings back bad memories for Neil. When he was still active, he had caught and killed a serial killer. He believed that the killer was dead but now it seems he might have killed the wrong man.
Elizabeth Denison receives a phone call one day. The caller is none other then Bankes. He tells her that he is out and he hopes to hear her scream once more for him. Beth fears for her and her daughter’s lives but she keeps her mouth shut about the phone call. The police discover that the murder victim’s cell phone was used. The last call made on it was to a Beth Denison. Beth plans to take out Bankes herself but will her silence be deadly?
One Scream Away is what I call a good time. I just about read this book in one sitting. Both my eyes and hands were glued to the book. The sparks that Beth and Neil shared were really good. I liked that that the story line didn’t veer too far from the murderer and the characters and head more into a romance between Neil and Beth. While I do enjoy romantic suspenses; I like when they are evenly balanced. I scream for more Kate Brady!
October 13, 2010
I really wanted to love this book. But I didn't. I enjoy reading romantic suspense and thrillers and for some reason this book fell for me.
For one, I thought it was too long and drawn out. The romance wasn't really there. I didn't feel it. Sure there was some chemistry, but it felt more based on adrenaline and fear then love.
For the most part it was predictable to me, maybe because I read a lot in this genre. Half way through I figured out the whole Jenny thing. Still the ending was a wee bit suprising. Enough to keep me intrested in the series as a hole.
Both Beth and Neil's characters were pretty well realized, and I wasn't as irritated with beth as some readers. However, If I were her I wouldn't go running half cocked into the fray. But as a mother, I may have made the same choices that she did regarding Abby.
It was OK. Not great. I'll probably stick with Gerad and Rose and J.D Robb when I need this type of read though.
For one, I thought it was too long and drawn out. The romance wasn't really there. I didn't feel it. Sure there was some chemistry, but it felt more based on adrenaline and fear then love.
For the most part it was predictable to me, maybe because I read a lot in this genre. Half way through I figured out the whole Jenny thing. Still the ending was a wee bit suprising. Enough to keep me intrested in the series as a hole.
Both Beth and Neil's characters were pretty well realized, and I wasn't as irritated with beth as some readers. However, If I were her I wouldn't go running half cocked into the fray. But as a mother, I may have made the same choices that she did regarding Abby.
It was OK. Not great. I'll probably stick with Gerad and Rose and J.D Robb when I need this type of read though.
November 4, 2012
Loved this book when I read it in 2009. I recommended it to all my friends at that time and it immediately put Kate Brady on my auto-buy author list.
Although it's been a few years since I read this book, it's one that I still remember. Those are the kind of books that I rate as 5 stars.
I was just looking at her new release coming out later in Nov 2012 an decided to mark this one as read since it was before I joined Goodreads.
Although it's been a few years since I read this book, it's one that I still remember. Those are the kind of books that I rate as 5 stars.
I was just looking at her new release coming out later in Nov 2012 an decided to mark this one as read since it was before I joined Goodreads.
March 14, 2015
Not sure why this book described as a page turner. A bit slow...irritating characters...some implausible situations. Perhaps I am unfairly comparing to Karen Rose for whom such as a title bears some familiarity.
June 19, 2012
4 ½ stars – Romantic Suspense/Thriller
Read
June 17, 2023another author that is unnecessarily rude to reviewers
April 27, 2009
Kate Brady has won or been a finalist in many writing contests, including the Golden Heart from the Romance Writers of America, the Maggies, and the Suzannah. One Scream Away is her debut novel.
After a previous case goes horribly wrong, Neil Sheridan leaves the FBI behind and embarks on a quest to drown out his sorrows in alcohol and woman whose names he can’t even recall. Now working for a private security organization, the scars from his past emerge when an old colleague and friend knocks on his door about a case which is eerily similar to a disturbing one from his past. Across the country, one by one, women are brutally murdered in comparable means to resemble antique dolls. The connection- Beth Denison- a single mother who is receiving calls from the killer and at one time has researched the dolls. A beautiful woman with a secret she’ll do anything to keep. After Beth surrenders to Neil, both in his embrace and in his protection, Neil discovers that seven years ago Beth was attacked by the killer named Chevy Bankes. Beth created a new life for herself, far removed from the tragedy of that night. But now Bankes is out of prison and after her, killing women in prelude to his real desire- her. It may just be too late for her and her daughter when the truth comes out. Neil knows Beth isn’t telling him everything, like why Bankes really wants her screaming, or why she’ll consider the unthinkable- facing Bankes alone.
The only real fault I have with the book was the secret Beth was keeping. I figured it out very early on. Then again, the author may have written it or wanted it this way. I didn’t feel it ruined the story either.
I think, in a story like this, where there is so much trauma from the past, Kate Brady did a remarkable job of understanding her characters and reactions from them. This wasn’t just a romantic suspense, but a delve into the psyche of human nature and how we rebound from heartbreak and previous experience. This may be a bit too deep of a statement for a fiction book, but from a writers perspective, it made the plot flow well and engages the reader without them understanding why. I felt it was worth mention because a great author does this well. This book is well worth the read for the characters alone, both antagonist and protagonist, you walk away, or close the book, without questions and with truly feeling what made them tick. I was particularly pleased with the ending. Without having to put up a spoiler alert, this wasn’t a quick, wham-bam-thank-you, Mam finish. The suspense slowly built until the last page. As previously stated, the plot flowed well, was well spaced, and there weren’t any areas where I lost interest.
One Scream Away, by Kate Brady, is one heck of a break-out book from a talented emerging author.
Kelly Moran,
Author and Reviewer
After a previous case goes horribly wrong, Neil Sheridan leaves the FBI behind and embarks on a quest to drown out his sorrows in alcohol and woman whose names he can’t even recall. Now working for a private security organization, the scars from his past emerge when an old colleague and friend knocks on his door about a case which is eerily similar to a disturbing one from his past. Across the country, one by one, women are brutally murdered in comparable means to resemble antique dolls. The connection- Beth Denison- a single mother who is receiving calls from the killer and at one time has researched the dolls. A beautiful woman with a secret she’ll do anything to keep. After Beth surrenders to Neil, both in his embrace and in his protection, Neil discovers that seven years ago Beth was attacked by the killer named Chevy Bankes. Beth created a new life for herself, far removed from the tragedy of that night. But now Bankes is out of prison and after her, killing women in prelude to his real desire- her. It may just be too late for her and her daughter when the truth comes out. Neil knows Beth isn’t telling him everything, like why Bankes really wants her screaming, or why she’ll consider the unthinkable- facing Bankes alone.
The only real fault I have with the book was the secret Beth was keeping. I figured it out very early on. Then again, the author may have written it or wanted it this way. I didn’t feel it ruined the story either.
I think, in a story like this, where there is so much trauma from the past, Kate Brady did a remarkable job of understanding her characters and reactions from them. This wasn’t just a romantic suspense, but a delve into the psyche of human nature and how we rebound from heartbreak and previous experience. This may be a bit too deep of a statement for a fiction book, but from a writers perspective, it made the plot flow well and engages the reader without them understanding why. I felt it was worth mention because a great author does this well. This book is well worth the read for the characters alone, both antagonist and protagonist, you walk away, or close the book, without questions and with truly feeling what made them tick. I was particularly pleased with the ending. Without having to put up a spoiler alert, this wasn’t a quick, wham-bam-thank-you, Mam finish. The suspense slowly built until the last page. As previously stated, the plot flowed well, was well spaced, and there weren’t any areas where I lost interest.
One Scream Away, by Kate Brady, is one heck of a break-out book from a talented emerging author.
Kelly Moran,
Author and Reviewer
April 20, 2010
I got this book after reading Rosario's review, Kate Brady is a fairly new author (her second book will be published this year) and I'm always looking for good romantic suspense authors so I decided to give it a go.
Neil Sheridan used to be a cop, seven years ago he worked on a serial case, he got a conviction but being overworked cost his family and he has left the force and been on a self destruction path ever since. Now his good friend Rick asks for his help because there's a new killer on the loose and the modus operandi is similar to the guy Neil helped convict in the past. Could they have gotten the wrong man?
The new killer is using the victim's cell phones to contact Beth which, at first, makes her a suspect and that's why she and Neil meet. But the police soon realise that Beth is a victim too, in fact she may be his next victim but there is something she is hiding about her past and how well she knows the killer.
I did like both Beth and Neil very much. They are resilient people who have had to move on with their lives and they did so in a very real and believable way. They are practical and don't spend their lives thinking of what happened. I liked that. Unfortunately I wasn't totally convinced by their attraction to one another. I thought it came about too fast and while I did like their interaction once they were an item I would have preferred a slower approach, especially on Nick's side.
I have a few doubts about how the police led the investigation at first. We already knew who the killer was, how he was working and partially why and although I see that while Beth was a suspect they couldn't tell her everything but it felt that they would have reached the truth sooner had they told her upfront what Banks was doing. Not only that but it never felt like Neil and Beth were a team trying to catch the murderer, Neil kept trying to protect Beth and Beth planning to confront Banks and I think it would have worked better if they were a team.
Having said that, I really liked how Brady kept us in suspense about what was going to happen next. Despite knowing the killer we are kept guessing whether he manages to do what he wants or whether the police will be able to catch him in time. She kept me reading till the early hours to find out how the end would come about and even managed to surprise a time or two with some characters fates. A very positive first book that made me curious for the next one.
Grade 4/5
Neil Sheridan used to be a cop, seven years ago he worked on a serial case, he got a conviction but being overworked cost his family and he has left the force and been on a self destruction path ever since. Now his good friend Rick asks for his help because there's a new killer on the loose and the modus operandi is similar to the guy Neil helped convict in the past. Could they have gotten the wrong man?
The new killer is using the victim's cell phones to contact Beth which, at first, makes her a suspect and that's why she and Neil meet. But the police soon realise that Beth is a victim too, in fact she may be his next victim but there is something she is hiding about her past and how well she knows the killer.
I did like both Beth and Neil very much. They are resilient people who have had to move on with their lives and they did so in a very real and believable way. They are practical and don't spend their lives thinking of what happened. I liked that. Unfortunately I wasn't totally convinced by their attraction to one another. I thought it came about too fast and while I did like their interaction once they were an item I would have preferred a slower approach, especially on Nick's side.
I have a few doubts about how the police led the investigation at first. We already knew who the killer was, how he was working and partially why and although I see that while Beth was a suspect they couldn't tell her everything but it felt that they would have reached the truth sooner had they told her upfront what Banks was doing. Not only that but it never felt like Neil and Beth were a team trying to catch the murderer, Neil kept trying to protect Beth and Beth planning to confront Banks and I think it would have worked better if they were a team.
Having said that, I really liked how Brady kept us in suspense about what was going to happen next. Despite knowing the killer we are kept guessing whether he manages to do what he wants or whether the police will be able to catch him in time. She kept me reading till the early hours to find out how the end would come about and even managed to surprise a time or two with some characters fates. A very positive first book that made me curious for the next one.
Grade 4/5
July 19, 2009
A true page turner!! I thought Kate Brady did a wonderful job at making the reader want more. There were twists and turns leading me down the slippery slope with the characters lives as the authorities are always a step behind Chevy Bankes. He has had plenty of time to plan his revenge but even he isn't prepared for the evil trick his Mother played on him.
Trusting is sometimes a difficult thing to do especially if you have experienced a horrible experience. There are those who you can trust if you learn to trust yourself and can find the confidence to do so. Others have a way of shattering that confidence and manipulating us into seeing ourselves as they want us to see us. There are many ways we can be abused and held hostage by others. Beth had been held hostage by the way her late husband Adam had treated the rape by Chevy Bankes by not wanting her to seek help. It was more important for Adam to have his social and family standing than to see his wife learn to live with the monster that had hurt her.
Trusting is sometimes a difficult thing to do especially if you have experienced a horrible experience. There are those who you can trust if you learn to trust yourself and can find the confidence to do so. Others have a way of shattering that confidence and manipulating us into seeing ourselves as they want us to see us. There are many ways we can be abused and held hostage by others. Beth had been held hostage by the way her late husband Adam had treated the rape by Chevy Bankes by not wanting her to seek help. It was more important for Adam to have his social and family standing than to see his wife learn to live with the monster that had hurt her.
August 21, 2012
I really ended up enjoying this novel, more than I ever expected to. This is probably because I went into it with my preconceived notions about what to expect from a romance novel. The cover helped feed these misconceptions. Even though this book did win the RITA award for Best New Novel in 2010, I was surprised by how little there was in the way of sex scenes worked into the story. I get most of preconceived notions about romance from bodice rippers and books like Wifey by Judy Blume. Maybe I'm confusing romance with smut. What really gripped me throughout this novel was the suspense of the main story. I would recommend this book more to readers who read suspense, thrillers, and horror. Most of the story is pretty graphic. I'm not sure I found the romance aspect totally realistic or the male lead character all that attractive but I really did enjoy myself while reading it.
April 19, 2010
HOLY CROW!!!!! I really loved this book! it had all of the things I look for in a Murder mystery type romance, It moved quickly really sucking you in from the first chapter however it gave you enough detailing to give you a great hold on the people and places. The characters were so real life I had to remind myself that it was fiction but didn't cross that line into grotesque. And it had enough romance that I had to sigh with womanly longing at the love reflected so clearly between the characters! pretty much i started this book at around 2 this afternoon and finished it about 11:15, mind you I pulled a "I need a mommy vacation day" on my hubby and did little else once I started but wow I don't think I could have put this down for much other than a burning house!
January 24, 2014
I thought this book was a pretty good read. Definitely a thriller. 3.5 stars. the story is a little drawn out and couple of times i just kind of skimmed through the pages to get the general idea until a big scene came up. The shagging scenes where grayed out though so, no action really, but I suppose it would have been a little difficult to pull it off, going from a gruesome crime scene to adults getting down and dirty. I've seen it done in other thriller books though and played out pretty well. I gave it 3.5 stars though because I really enjoyed the plot and the cat & mouse games that the killer, Chevy, played. There was an awesome twist in about 60% of the book, that I kind of saw coming. Still, when I read it, wow.
September 24, 2011
As I continue along my RTR project, I have made peace with the fact that I prefer my romances light and funny. One Scream Away did not fit the bill. It was not light nor funny. In fact, it was dark, a bit gruesome, and very suspenseful. Because of that, there's no doubt that if you are a fan of authors like Tami Hoag, Tess Gerritsen, Lisa Gardner, or Iris Johansen, you will enjoy this fast-paced mystery. The main character, Beth Denison, is somehow connected to serial killer Chevy Bankes. As ex-FBI agent Neil Sheridan finds himself pulled into Beth's life, she slowly reveals her confusing past. One Scream Away won a RITA for Best First Book.
Read
August 9, 2024Excellent debut. Neil is so, so wounded, and Beth is very compelling as a single mom doing anything and everything to protect her daughter. The villain of the piece, Chevy, is especially well drawn for a romantic suspense complete with some traits that earn him a little sympathy despite the horrible things he does. Lots of nice twists and turns with the plot, and I only really figured out a couple of them before we got to the end. Really looking forward to Brady's other books, and I'm moving them up in the TBR pile.
August 23, 2014
The first book in the Sheridan series by Kate Brady. A fast moving, easy to read romantic suspense. Uber creepy villain. I loved the hero and heroine. This is an author I'll be watching for more from.
April 15, 2014
This book sucked !
One the H/h just bland, is like everybody died trying to save Beth, The FBI agents were portrayed as slow. It just dragged on and on and on. No romance at all, made no sense why they were paired...what exactly made her diff. I guess not everybody can do it like Karen Rose.
One the H/h just bland, is like everybody died trying to save Beth, The FBI agents were portrayed as slow. It just dragged on and on and on. No romance at all, made no sense why they were paired...what exactly made her diff. I guess not everybody can do it like Karen Rose.
September 15, 2009
Good new author with a new series that apeals to me. Will look forward to reading the next book in this series.
April 5, 2014
This book is so boring it put me to sleep!
July 12, 2016
This book started off promising, but fell flat towards the end.
August 19, 2021
Chevy Banks ist seit einem Jahr auf freiem Fuss. Nach seiner siebenjährigen Haftstrafe plant er seine Rache. Es gibt noch offene Rechnungen, die Banks unbedingt begleichen will, denn er war nicht alleine dafür verantwortlich, dass die Frau damals starb. Er zieht eine blutige Spur quer durch Amerika und sammelt auf dem Weg die Todesschreie seiner Opfer, die er mit einem Aufnahmegerät aufnimmt. Nichts befriedigt ihn mehr als diese Aufnahmen.
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Das Buch verspricht sehr viel, was meiner Meinung nach aber die Schriftstellerin leider nicht dementsprechend verarbeiten konnte. Die Morde sind bzw. wären sehr grausam, jedoch wird nicht ausführlich darüber geschrieben, was ich sehr Schade finde. Es wird lediglich ein klein wenig beschrieben, was mit dem Opfer passiert ist, aber ansonsten heisst es einfach es gibt ein neues Opfer. Auch der Schreibstil der Schriftstellerin konnte mich leider nicht ganz überzeugen. Die Zusammenhänge zu verstehen ist auch nicht einfach. Es gibt sehr viele verschidene Charaktere, die Kapitel sind lange. Irritierend ist, dass die Schrifstellerin ohne ein neues Kapitel oder einen neuen Absatz von der Erzählung eines Charakters zum nächsten wechselt. Da habe ich mich ein paar mal verloren und gefragt, von wem nun die Rede ist. Am Anfang des Buches ist alles sehr hektisch und nach 180 Seiten hat man das Gefühl das Buch müsste gleich fertig sein, jedoch kommen danach nochmals fast 300 Seiten.
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Ich würde das Buch kein zweites Mal lesen. Es war ok, aber ich denke, ich werde andere Schriftsteller bevorzugen. Die Idee der Geschichte war wirklich gut, für mich aber einfach nicht gut genug umgesetzt. Das ist aber Geschmacksache. Das Finale war spannend, aber vorhersehbar.
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Das Buch verspricht sehr viel, was meiner Meinung nach aber die Schriftstellerin leider nicht dementsprechend verarbeiten konnte. Die Morde sind bzw. wären sehr grausam, jedoch wird nicht ausführlich darüber geschrieben, was ich sehr Schade finde. Es wird lediglich ein klein wenig beschrieben, was mit dem Opfer passiert ist, aber ansonsten heisst es einfach es gibt ein neues Opfer. Auch der Schreibstil der Schriftstellerin konnte mich leider nicht ganz überzeugen. Die Zusammenhänge zu verstehen ist auch nicht einfach. Es gibt sehr viele verschidene Charaktere, die Kapitel sind lange. Irritierend ist, dass die Schrifstellerin ohne ein neues Kapitel oder einen neuen Absatz von der Erzählung eines Charakters zum nächsten wechselt. Da habe ich mich ein paar mal verloren und gefragt, von wem nun die Rede ist. Am Anfang des Buches ist alles sehr hektisch und nach 180 Seiten hat man das Gefühl das Buch müsste gleich fertig sein, jedoch kommen danach nochmals fast 300 Seiten.
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Ich würde das Buch kein zweites Mal lesen. Es war ok, aber ich denke, ich werde andere Schriftsteller bevorzugen. Die Idee der Geschichte war wirklich gut, für mich aber einfach nicht gut genug umgesetzt. Das ist aber Geschmacksache. Das Finale war spannend, aber vorhersehbar.
September 17, 2018
Great book. Many unexpected twists but there was a few times I wish Beth reacted differently like when she is grabbed by Neil, instead of remaining silent she should scream for help, get Neil into trouble. He is not Bankes so it doesn't matter if she screams.
If someone was harassing/stalking me I would make as much noise as possible to get that person in trouble especially if he is a cop. A cop who goes above the law (or breaks it) is frowned upon. Beth should have been screaming stalker & attacker even if she didn't know she was about to be picked up by the cops.
If someone was harassing/stalking me I would make as much noise as possible to get that person in trouble especially if he is a cop. A cop who goes above the law (or breaks it) is frowned upon. Beth should have been screaming stalker & attacker even if she didn't know she was about to be picked up by the cops.
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