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One Little Word
Allegra Hudson was murdered.
An anonymous source drops the note into Madeleine Barton's lap exactly when she needs it most. The recently widowed single mother is struggling to make ends meet as a freelance reporter, and covering the mysterious death of local bestselling author and legend, Allegra Hudson, could be the career-launching story of her dreams.
Working with Allegra's grieving husband, Connor, Madeleine plunges down the rabbit hole of Allegra's privileged life. And the deeper she digs, the more dirt she finds--a conniving best friend, a stalker ex-boyfriend, and a marriage in shambles. The closer Madeleine gets to the truth, the murkier the waters become.
Her source's looming presence and constant meddling in her investigation paired with her growing bond with Connor over their shared grief have blinded her to the facts, but they don't explain why Allegra Hudson's life feels so familiar. Only one thing is certain: Madeleine can trust no one.
One Little Word is a deliciously clever game of cat-and-mouse with a completely unexpected twist.
An anonymous source drops the note into Madeleine Barton's lap exactly when she needs it most. The recently widowed single mother is struggling to make ends meet as a freelance reporter, and covering the mysterious death of local bestselling author and legend, Allegra Hudson, could be the career-launching story of her dreams.
Working with Allegra's grieving husband, Connor, Madeleine plunges down the rabbit hole of Allegra's privileged life. And the deeper she digs, the more dirt she finds--a conniving best friend, a stalker ex-boyfriend, and a marriage in shambles. The closer Madeleine gets to the truth, the murkier the waters become.
Her source's looming presence and constant meddling in her investigation paired with her growing bond with Connor over their shared grief have blinded her to the facts, but they don't explain why Allegra Hudson's life feels so familiar. Only one thing is certain: Madeleine can trust no one.
One Little Word is a deliciously clever game of cat-and-mouse with a completely unexpected twist.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published February 22, 2022
53 people are currently reading
928 people want to read
About the author
Audra McElyea
5 books204 followersAudra McElyea is a former corporate buyer and magazine contributor turned thriller author who writes books in their villain era.
She's a self-deprecating, anxious, introvert at heart who loves her husband, little boys, and dog even more than books and movies (which is a lot).
Her taste is broad though. She loves watching Marvel and Christopher Nolan films just as much as she enjoys classic noirs like Hitchcock and Agatha Christie.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading, exercising, and listening to Taylor Swift songs over and over.
Audra is represented by Liza Royce Agency in New York.
She's a self-deprecating, anxious, introvert at heart who loves her husband, little boys, and dog even more than books and movies (which is a lot).
Her taste is broad though. She loves watching Marvel and Christopher Nolan films just as much as she enjoys classic noirs like Hitchcock and Agatha Christie.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading, exercising, and listening to Taylor Swift songs over and over.
Audra is represented by Liza Royce Agency in New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
August 15, 2023
Clever and suspenseful with characters that leap off the page, One Little Word creates a sense of disorientation that will keep you guessing until the very end.
December 26, 2024
This reminded me of another popular book but it was good..
March 2, 2022
One Little Word was fun! Thanks so much to the author for providing an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
There are a few things that will instantly sell me on a book: author characters, amateur-esque investigations, PLOT TWISTS, etc... and, OLW delivered on those. I'm such a sucker for creative plots, and I'm impressed with McElyea's ambitious ideas in developing this story - especially since this is a debut! The writing style is a bit different than what I'm used to reading, so it took me some time at the beginning to fully engage with the characters. BUT once things got going I was all in on this plot.
Very entertaining. Would recommend to fans of psychological suspense.
There are a few things that will instantly sell me on a book: author characters, amateur-esque investigations, PLOT TWISTS, etc... and, OLW delivered on those. I'm such a sucker for creative plots, and I'm impressed with McElyea's ambitious ideas in developing this story - especially since this is a debut! The writing style is a bit different than what I'm used to reading, so it took me some time at the beginning to fully engage with the characters. BUT once things got going I was all in on this plot.
Very entertaining. Would recommend to fans of psychological suspense.
February 24, 2022
4.5 rounded up!
What a great debut, that was totally unique! Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an e-ARC to read and review. This book is heavy on the psychological aspect, which is always fascinating to me. The novel is set in Knoxville, and I appreciated all the setting details that were included (especially the mention of Mast General Store - IYKYK). The twist caught me COMPLETELY off-guard in the best way 🤯 I was also shocked when the meaning behind the title “One Little Word” was revealed. This book is reminiscent of a certain classic film, and now I can’t wait to watch it again. One Little Word released yesterday, 2/22/22. I look forward to reading whatever Audra writes next!
What a great debut, that was totally unique! Thank you so much to the author for providing me with an e-ARC to read and review. This book is heavy on the psychological aspect, which is always fascinating to me. The novel is set in Knoxville, and I appreciated all the setting details that were included (especially the mention of Mast General Store - IYKYK). The twist caught me COMPLETELY off-guard in the best way 🤯 I was also shocked when the meaning behind the title “One Little Word” was revealed. This book is reminiscent of a certain classic film, and now I can’t wait to watch it again. One Little Word released yesterday, 2/22/22. I look forward to reading whatever Audra writes next!
February 25, 2022
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy.
You all know I love my psychological thrillers, so I was thrilled when Audra McElyea reached out to me to be part of her virtual book tour for the launch of her debut novel…and let me just say what a wild ride this one is!
Right from the start, I found myself caught up in this story – the characters were so vivid and alive and even though I wasn’t quite sure about them and whether they were trustworthy, I just could not walk away from them. This is such a binge-worthy, addictive read and full of unreliable characters that just get under your skin. I kept thinking I knew where things were heading, only to be caught completely off-guard with that twist – what a total shock and yet, it worked so well. I actually had to go back and reread parts of the story to see just how she pulled it off, so kudos to you, Audra for that!
This is such a clever, brilliantly crafted story that is definitely going to stick with you – I finished reading this a few days ago and cannot get this story out of my head – and when you do get to that twist…you will realize why my review is so vague! I see good things coming from this author and I will for sure be eager to read it all!
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
You all know I love my psychological thrillers, so I was thrilled when Audra McElyea reached out to me to be part of her virtual book tour for the launch of her debut novel…and let me just say what a wild ride this one is!
Right from the start, I found myself caught up in this story – the characters were so vivid and alive and even though I wasn’t quite sure about them and whether they were trustworthy, I just could not walk away from them. This is such a binge-worthy, addictive read and full of unreliable characters that just get under your skin. I kept thinking I knew where things were heading, only to be caught completely off-guard with that twist – what a total shock and yet, it worked so well. I actually had to go back and reread parts of the story to see just how she pulled it off, so kudos to you, Audra for that!
This is such a clever, brilliantly crafted story that is definitely going to stick with you – I finished reading this a few days ago and cannot get this story out of my head – and when you do get to that twist…you will realize why my review is so vague! I see good things coming from this author and I will for sure be eager to read it all!
You can see all my reviews at: https://www.alwayswithabook.com/
March 6, 2022
What a fantastic story!! Without any spoilers, I was captivated and had my sleuth brain in motion trying to figure out the “who done it”? As I was reading, all of a sudden, I was confused! What?? Wait?! What just happened?? I had to stop and collect myself. Ok!! Let me go back, did I just read too fast?? I reread and I’m still in a shocking confused state of “what am I reading?” So I figure, let me just continue on and then BAM!! Holy WOW!! I didn’t see that happening at all!!! Fantastic!! I love when I’m shocked like this while reading. If you love that too, this is a must read!!!
March 31, 2022
The story started great with showing us what kind of a person Madeleine was. But, there is an anonymous source urging her to investigate and someone else threatening her - and she almost doesn't care about them. There were a lot of red flags that I felt were swept under the rug. The investigation part was engaging and I enjoyed it. The twist at the end was unexpected but all the buildup frazzled out by the end for me and I was left with too many questions.
April 14, 2022
Wow! I went into this one a bit tired of the psychological thriller genre, but was quickly drawn in and found it hard to put down. I LOVE that this is by a local author and is set in Knoxville - it was so much fun to see parts of this city that I adore pop up throughout the book. It took me a bit to get all the characters straight, but as the ending grew closer and closer I was genuinely stumped as to how it would end. I was leaning toward one character, but the ending was so much more interesting than I could have imagined! Definitely did not see those final twists and turns coming and can't wait to talk about this one at book club.
March 6, 2022
Thank you so much to Audra for providing this ARC for me to review!
One Little Word was such a unique story full of twists that has you second-guessing every character until the very end. I was questioning every character and I was still wrong in the end. I loved that I couldn't exactly trust what was going on until the very end, McElyea definitely keeps us on our toes with this one.
One Little Word is such an exceptionally crafted psychological thriller because for a while there I thought every character was a bit off of their rockers. That being said, I loved the characters, even the unreliable ones. And I want to keep this as spoiler-free as possible, so you will have to give it a read so we are on the same page.
Fast-paced, likable characters, and a mind-blowing twist, this one is sure to pull you in until the very last page! One Little Word was released on 2/22, be sure to pick this one up!
One Little Word was such a unique story full of twists that has you second-guessing every character until the very end. I was questioning every character and I was still wrong in the end. I loved that I couldn't exactly trust what was going on until the very end, McElyea definitely keeps us on our toes with this one.
One Little Word is such an exceptionally crafted psychological thriller because for a while there I thought every character was a bit off of their rockers. That being said, I loved the characters, even the unreliable ones. And I want to keep this as spoiler-free as possible, so you will have to give it a read so we are on the same page.
Fast-paced, likable characters, and a mind-blowing twist, this one is sure to pull you in until the very last page! One Little Word was released on 2/22, be sure to pick this one up!
March 5, 2022
I came for the mystery and stayed for the wild plot twist! Seriously, I did not see that one coming, but it was so well done! I could easily see myself reading this book again to catch all of the pieces leading up to the twist. Every part of the story is building towards the twist so pay close attention!
Audra did a wonderful job creating engaging dialogue and an interesting back story for the main character Madeleine.
The story develops slowly at the beginning but with every new clue, it kept me guessing. I was so interested to find out what clue a "source" would give next.
Highly recommend to those that love a solid love story, well developed characters and, enjoy a surprising plot twist!
Audra did a wonderful job creating engaging dialogue and an interesting back story for the main character Madeleine.
The story develops slowly at the beginning but with every new clue, it kept me guessing. I was so interested to find out what clue a "source" would give next.
Highly recommend to those that love a solid love story, well developed characters and, enjoy a surprising plot twist!
January 7, 2024
I enjoyed this book by a local author. In fact, the author, Audra McElyea, is a past student of a friend of mine. Audra included so many Knoxville restaurants and places in her book. I could visualize every place she, the character, visited. (Ex: Cafe 4, Sequoyah Hills neighborhood and park, Downtown Grill). I loved knowing the setting of the book! However, I had a hard time with the ending of the book. Without giving away spoilers, it was challenging for me to accept how the main character solved the mystery. But that is more of a reader issue (me) than a writing issue.
February 24, 2022
Wow!
This was such an amazing book! Loved the twist at the end. Very unexpected! This is a must read. Don't miss it!
This was such an amazing book! Loved the twist at the end. Very unexpected! This is a must read. Don't miss it!
March 2, 2022
'One Little Word' is the impressive debut novel from author Audra McElyea; using a traditional 'whodunit' as the foundation, Ms. McElyea weaves in well-placed Hitchcockian threads of narrative twists to keep readers guessing about the ending and doesn't fail to disappoint us with its conclusion (spoiler alert: I missed it and bet that you will too)...the clues are there for armchair detectives to figure it out for ourselves but it is a stubborn and well-crafted puzzle that gives us readers our money's worth.
Using Knoxville landmarks, relatable characters, and well-paced thematic escalation, 'One Little Word' is an enjoyable book; I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Using Knoxville landmarks, relatable characters, and well-paced thematic escalation, 'One Little Word' is an enjoyable book; I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
January 6, 2024
This was a wild ride with an unexpected ending, but it kept me engaged until the end!
February 4, 2023
This book is the definition of a shocking ending! I have never felt so confused but also wanted to keep reading at the same time. Before the last couple chapters I thought I would be giving this book a 3 star review but it quickly shot up to a 5 star. Unlike any other book I’ve read.
March 10, 2022
WOW!
I loved this book. My good friend, Kim, told me about One Little Word. The ending is unbelievable. There are so many twists and turns in this book. This author has a talent for writing such mysteries such as this one! I highly recommend reading it!!!!
I loved this book. My good friend, Kim, told me about One Little Word. The ending is unbelievable. There are so many twists and turns in this book. This author has a talent for writing such mysteries such as this one! I highly recommend reading it!!!!
March 3, 2022
Worth reading
I couldn’t put it down once I got into the first 30 pages or so of this author’s debut novel. I loved the characters and kept questioning everything throughout the story. Audra McElyea is one to watch in the suspense/ psychological thriller genre. Perfectly wrapped up at the end.
I couldn’t put it down once I got into the first 30 pages or so of this author’s debut novel. I loved the characters and kept questioning everything throughout the story. Audra McElyea is one to watch in the suspense/ psychological thriller genre. Perfectly wrapped up at the end.
March 5, 2022
A terrific, wild ride with an ending that’s worth hanging on for!
September 3, 2024
Audra is a creative genius! The twists and turns in this book are mind blowing! This book is so detailed, it makes you feel like you can see each of the characters exactly! The ending had me in a tailspin. I was NOT prepared and it left me with my jaw on the floor! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again.. AUDRA IS QUEEN OF PLOT TWISTS, you’ll never see it comin!
February 26, 2022
Love a good mystery! This one is for you! This debut is full of fascinating, yet unreliable characters. The pace is spot on, keeping you reading just a little bit more, until you’ve read it all! And it has some thrilling and gasp-worthy twists! Loved it so much! Great for Knoxville natives with lots of local tidbits thrown in.♥️♥️♥️
March 2, 2024
There is nothing I didn't absolutely love about this book! Fast paced suspense/thriller! I just could not put this book down and read it in less than 24 hours!
Allegra Hudson was murdered.
Recently widowed Madeleine Barton is hired by Allegra's best friend and husband to find out what really happened. Who murdered her? Who can Madeleine trust?
Plot twists you won't see coming! Absolute must read from this amazing new author!
If you haven't read, If You See Me - absolutely go online to TikTok and order and you can get a signed copy! I will read anything this author writes! She's fabulous and is such a wonderfully sweet human being!
Allegra Hudson was murdered.
Recently widowed Madeleine Barton is hired by Allegra's best friend and husband to find out what really happened. Who murdered her? Who can Madeleine trust?
Plot twists you won't see coming! Absolute must read from this amazing new author!
If you haven't read, If You See Me - absolutely go online to TikTok and order and you can get a signed copy! I will read anything this author writes! She's fabulous and is such a wonderfully sweet human being!
September 6, 2022
Such a good book! Loved the twist! Loved the local references to my home town!
May 31, 2024
Wow!! I was going back and forth in my head trying to figure who did it and then bam that ending hit out of left field!! I couldn’t believe it. Another well written book, one I will definitely recommend!!
December 14, 2021
-Praise for One Little Word-
"One Little Word is a riveting suspense novel packed with sharp turns and unexpected twists. Single mother and widow Madeleine Barton is the perfect protagonist, capturing your heart and bringing you along for this crazy, thrilling ride. Audra McElyea is one to watch!" - Samantha Downing, #1 internationally bestselling author of My Lovely Wife
"Clever and suspenseful with characters that leap off the page, One Little Word creates a sense of disorientation that will keep you guessing until the very end." - Jeneva Rose, bestselling author of The Perfect Marriage
"It's not easy to hit me with a twist I don't see coming, but Audra McElyea did it in One Little Word, a clever and compelling tale from an author to watch." - Kimberly Belle, USA Today bestselling author of The Marriage Lie
"Head-spinning, jaw-dropping, adrenaline-inducing...Suspense at its best." - Rea Frey, award winning author of Not Her Daughter
"One Little Word is a riveting suspense novel packed with sharp turns and unexpected twists. Single mother and widow Madeleine Barton is the perfect protagonist, capturing your heart and bringing you along for this crazy, thrilling ride. Audra McElyea is one to watch!" - Samantha Downing, #1 internationally bestselling author of My Lovely Wife
"Clever and suspenseful with characters that leap off the page, One Little Word creates a sense of disorientation that will keep you guessing until the very end." - Jeneva Rose, bestselling author of The Perfect Marriage
"It's not easy to hit me with a twist I don't see coming, but Audra McElyea did it in One Little Word, a clever and compelling tale from an author to watch." - Kimberly Belle, USA Today bestselling author of The Marriage Lie
"Head-spinning, jaw-dropping, adrenaline-inducing...Suspense at its best." - Rea Frey, award winning author of Not Her Daughter
March 15, 2022
This one's a page-turner! Along with some great characters, I loved all the twists and turns and the way McElyea sprinkled in a lot of different elements allowing the reader to keep guessing the actual path with a great final twist!
April 25, 2022
This book was fantastic! Audra has done a phenomenal job with her debut novel. The book was captivating, and had a thrilling twist. I can’t wait to see what she writes about next.
May 17, 2023
Absolutely phenomenal! Did not want to put it down. The twist and turns keep you guessing the entire time! Cannot wait for the next novel!
April 5, 2022
I don’t normally read mystery books because they are usually set in the real world and not enough of an escape for me. I signed up to read this book as a part of a group blindly and just went for it. I think I might need to explore the genre a bit more in the future.
Pros:
Despite the main character seeming pretty weak at the beginning she grows on you and takes you on this journey where you learn to care about her and this world.
Despite figuring out some of the twists in the story early I didn’t lose interest. I wanted to see how things would be revealed and make certain that there weren’t additional secrets hidden behind those.
Cons:
I don’t like books being in present tense. I look at a book as a friend telling you a story about their day. They don’t start until they know there is something worth telling which they can’t know until it happens. I understand the author made this choice, likely so it would be easier to not jump and reveal something too fast but my personal preference is past tense.
Solid 3.5-4 stars and would recommend!
Pros:
Despite the main character seeming pretty weak at the beginning she grows on you and takes you on this journey where you learn to care about her and this world.
Despite figuring out some of the twists in the story early I didn’t lose interest. I wanted to see how things would be revealed and make certain that there weren’t additional secrets hidden behind those.
Cons:
I don’t like books being in present tense. I look at a book as a friend telling you a story about their day. They don’t start until they know there is something worth telling which they can’t know until it happens. I understand the author made this choice, likely so it would be easier to not jump and reveal something too fast but my personal preference is past tense.
Solid 3.5-4 stars and would recommend!
August 16, 2022
Wow! 🤭 I am not kidding when I say you have to read this. This debut suspense novel was everything I didn't know I needed. It will give you those someone is watching you chills. There are multiple characters with a motive so you'll change your mind on the killer multiple times. I promise the twist will leave you speechless. Isn't that the best part of reading a thriller? I had a hard time comparing it to anything I've read in the past. The best I could come up with is The Girl on the Train meets A Simple Favor. I devoured this book and would have read in one sitting had I not had to work and do adult things. Clear your calendar and thank me later-𝐚 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐞.
March 11, 2022
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy and including me on her book tour! If you have enjoyed K. Mod books I think you will like this one. It was a very easy thriller to read through it was fast paced, entertaining, and fun. I thought I had everything figured out, but at one point the author completely surprised me, and I def wasn't close to figuring everything out. If you like books with creative twists I think you would enjoy this one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews