The Book Review Station

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September 2, 2019

A Chilling Must-Read: A Review of Their Lost Daughters by Joy Ellis

This was one of the first books I tried off of Amazon Prime Reading. And it definitely made me glad that this option exists for Amazon Prime users, and those without Kindle Unlimited subscriptions. An interesting enough premise led to me borrowing this one, and I have to say that the book far exceeded expectations.

Read on to know why.

Their Lost Daughters by Joy Ellis — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Thriller, Suspense

Length:

331 pages

Blurb:

A young girl’s body is found on an isolated beach – she was drowned. A second girl – Toni – is found wandering alone, drugged, and with foggy memories of a nightmare. A third girl is missing, her name – Emily – the only thing that Toni remembers; her name and that she had been taken away from the party from where Toni had barely escaped with her life. Another girl has been missing nearly a decade, and her mother is forcing the police to reopen her case with the help of the press. DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans need to make sense of all these events and find the culprits. But the missing girls are only the beginning. And the Fenland police may just not be prepared to handle the horrors that begin unraveling as they fight against time to find the missing girls, and save others from meeting the same fate.

Overall Rating:

9 out of 10

Plot:

9 out of 10

Characterization:

9 out of 10

Primary Element:

9 out of 10 for its suspense and thrill

Writing Style:

9 out of 10

Part of a Series:

Yes. This is Book 2 in the DI Jackman and DS Evans series, but can be read as a standalone too. I haven’t read Book 1, but had no trouble following Their Lost Daughters.

Highlighted Takeaway:

The authentic feel of the Fenlands, which comes across in the descriptions of places as well as the conversation.

What I Liked:

A really well-layered, twisted story, where all arcs come together extremely well at the end. It is quite predictable, and does not shy away from showcasing real-world horrors that we wish didn’t exist, but need to accept.

What I Didn’t Like:

I can’t really pinpoint any one thing, because I thoroughly enjoyed the entire book.

Who Should Read It:

Anyone who likes crime thrillers with a spooky old town feel, and who enjoy suspense.

Who Should Avoid:

Anyone who can’t digest graphic scenes – there was no gore as such in this book, but there were some scenes that hit really hard and may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Read It For:

The very enjoyable mix of spooky but charming setting, real-world horrors, reality checks, and an intriguing storyline.

After Their Lost Daughters, I will definitely be adding more of Joy Ellis to my to-be-read pile. The first book in the series – The Murderer’s Son – seems interesting and I’m going to try to make it my next read by Ellis.

If you’re looking for a really good suspense/thriller with a whole bunch of twists, pick up Their Lost Daughters. I can say with some confidence that you won’t be disappointed.

Thanks for stopping by and reading my review!

– Rishika

August 25, 2019

Enjoyable, even if predictable: A Review of I Know Everything by Matthew Farrell

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of I Know Everything by Matthew Farrell.

I Know Everything Matthew Farrell — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Mystery, Psychological Thriller

Length:

334 Pages

Blurb:

Renowned psychologist, Randall Brock, is devastated by the death of his wife. Police Investigator Susan Adler is all set to call it death by accident, until she receives evidence indicating murder. Randall Brock becomes her prime suspect.

While Brock remains oblivious to the turn of events, he comes face to face with a stranger, promising information about his wife’s death. But first, he wants Brock to give up the secrets he holds, secrets of a violent past that the stranger threatens to reveal if Brock refuses to accept them. With pressure mounting from Adler and the stranger who seems to know everything about Brock’s past, the psychologist’s life and mind begin to unravel. He knows he didn’t kill his wife… so who did? And who are they going after next?

Overall Rating:

6 out of 10

Plot:

7 out of 10

Characterization:

6 out of 10

Primary Element:

6 out of 10 for its mystery

Writing Style:

7 out of 10

Part of a Series:

No.

Highlighted Takeaway:

The portrayal of the complexities of the human mind and the behavior to which it can drive the worst and best of people.

What I Liked:

The storyline was based more on actions that were shades of gray. It showed that people aren’t either good or bad; they are complicated beings who, for the most part, behave to their possible best in trying circumstances.

What I Didn’t Like:

The excessive use of the term ‘revert back’. A pet peeve of mine, I have always been very annoyed that it’s becoming acceptable to say ‘reply back’ and ‘revert back’ instead of just ‘reply’ and ‘revert’.

Randall Brock was a difficult character to like. He had a lot going for him, but I would have liked to see him with just a tad more of a spine.

Who Should Read It:

Anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.

Who Should Avoid:

Anyone who can’t tolerate gore – there is quite a bit of disturbing violence in I Know Everything that isn’t always easy to digest.

Read It For:

An intriguing storyline that isn’t too tarnished by some of it being predictable, a tale with different elements that come together well, and its liberal take on right v/s wrong.

Matthew Farrell’s I Know Everything released on 6 August 2019 and is now available for sale.

Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read this review!

– Rishika

August 23, 2019August 25, 2019

Would not recommend: A (Sort-of) Review of Blood Relations by Jonathan Moore

This book lands in the did-not-finish (DNF) pile at around 10%. Would not really recommend it to anyone.

Jonathan Moore Blood Relations — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Mystery, Thriller (Apparently)

Length:

357 pages

Blurb:

Probably best to read this on Goodreads here.

Overall Rating:

1 out of 10

Overall Review:

Could not really get past the first 10% of this book.

You know those books that get started right in the middle of a story – sort of like you’re pushed into the deep end of a pool with a flimsy float that eventually starts to do its job?
Blood Relations was like that – but with sharks swimming around you, no end in sight, and the float disintegrates the moment you hit the water.

It just got more and more convoluted and had so much assumed knowledge on part of the reader, that I was lost from the beginning and just kept getting more lost.
Tried to read it three times from the beginning thinking maybe I missed something. I didn’t. Gave up eventually.

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. If you want to give it a shot, Jonathan Moore’s Blood Relations is now available for sale.

Thanks for stopping by!

– Rishika

August 21, 2019

Good, but not as good as expected: A Review of IT (By Stephen King)

I’d always assumed Stephen King’s IT would give me sleepless nights… because I’m a ‘fraidy-cat. So I procrastinated for a long time before choosing a period where I could manage with a few sleepless nights and finally got down to reading what has come to be known as one of Stephen King’s best books.

And I have to say… I was underwhelmed. Keep reading for more details.

Genre:

Horror

Length:

1376 pages

Blurb:

Something evil lives underground in the town of Derry, Maine – something that only the children can see, something that feeds on them. The horrific death of six-year-old George Denbrough sets off events that band together seven children who are forced to fight their worst nightmares, brought alive by IT that can take any shape. They survive the ordeal. And move away, going on to live successful lives, and forgetting everything they’d faced as near-teenagers. Until they get a call from Derry, 27 years later. Children are dying horribly again. The past is repeating itself. And The Losers have to return to Derry – to fulfill a promise made a long time ago, and to face their nightmares once again. Will they survive IT again?

Overall Rating:

6 out of 10

Plot:

7 out of 10

Characterization:

8 out of 10

Primary Element:

7 out of 10 for its horror, a lot of which has a reduced effect due to the sheer length of the book. By the end, you’re all scared-out and the most horrifying things become mundane.

Writing Style:

7 out of 10

Part of a Series:

Nope… just a single, reeeaallly big book! (And a 2-Part movie series.)

Highlighted Takeaway:

There is a distinct difference between the way adults see life and the way children see life. The general assumption is that the former are smarter because of their outlook. But there is a strength in children, brought forth by their innocence, imagination, and simple way of being able to maintain a wider view of the world than adults – just because they haven’t been molded by peers’ thoughts and societal conformity. That distinction and the often unappreciated ability of children is highlighted brilliantly in IT.

What I Liked:

The basic premise of the book, especially the part where it touches upon how we, individually, have the power to create (and sometimes overcome) our greatest fears.

Even though the book eventually loses some of its effectiveness (as mentioned below), it still manages to get under your skin, leaving you looking over your shoulder.

What I Didn’t Like:

The book is quite long, which isn’t a problem in itself. But what its length does is diminish its effectiveness. Like a word repeated too many times loses its effect, the extended horror eventually loses its effect. By the end, things get pretty intense and horrifying more often than in the initial parts of the book – but it just doesn’t seem as scary.

Spoiler alert! This spoiler doesn’t affect the outcome of the story in any way, but does highlight a specific part of the book. This part is only in the book and (from what I read), not in Part 1 of the film. The section where Beverly “gets together” with all the other boys of The Losers little group (six boys!), was altogether too much to take. I get why it was written (by reading Stephen King’s take on it) and even what it was meant to signify, but just… nope!

Who Should Read It:

Fans of horror and fans of Stephen King. And anyone who enjoys books with a supernatural touch.

Who Should Avoid:

Anyone who is turned off by violence and gore. And anyone who doesn’t enjoy stories driven by supernatural elements.

Read It For:

The experience. There are a few things that aren’t likable in Stephen King’s IT – the abovementioned spoiler, a somewhat childish aspect to the climax, and unnecessarily added story sections that the book can do without.

But, it is a book that everyone should attempt to read at least once. Even those who, like me, are generally scared of horrors. It is a prominent part of literary horror, and rightly so, with its complex yet simple understanding of human nature, gore-y and psychologically terrifying bits, and unabashed reflection of the societal problems and norms of the era in which it was set.

What did you think of Stephen King’s IT – movie or novel? Let me know in the comments below. And thanks for stopping by and reading this review!

– Rishika

July 25, 2019July 25, 2019

Unimpressive: A Review of Crime Scene at Cardwell Ranch (By B.J. Daniels)

The Harlequin Intrigue series had been one of my favorites growing up. They moved fast, had decent characterization, and intriguing storylines where romance met murder (and other criminal activity).

But when I moved to books by Iris Johansen and other such authors, the romantic suspense genre turned into something that had the potential of greater detail – in plot and characterization. Which is why I never really got back to reading anything from the Intrigue series.

I picked up B.J. Daniel’s Crime Scene at Cardwell Ranch a while ago, when it came as a free download on an emailer list. I tried reading it, but couldn’t get past the first couple of pages because there was altogether too much drama. I tried again a while ago when I wanted to read something quick and not-too-serious. I don’t know whether it was this specific book or the genre in general, but I was definitely left underwhelmed. It was only for old times’ sake that I read it through to the end.

Let’s get right into the review.

Crime Scene at Cardwell Ranch - BJ Daniels — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Romance, Romantic Suspense

Length:

250 pages

Blurb:

Five years ago, Dana Cardwell was betrayed by the man she loved. Hudson Savage left the town without explanation, and Dana hoped to never see him again. But when years-old bones are found on Dana’s ranch, an investigation is begun – led by the new acting Marshall, Hudson Savage, who is back in town for redemption, and some answers.

Soon, Dana begins to struggle with new revelations that threaten everything and everyone she believes in. Had she been wrong in questioning Hudson five years ago? Or is she wrong in trusting him now? Dana needs to find the right answers even as someone continues to threaten her every more, her home, and her life.

Overall Rating:

4 out of 10

Plot:

6 out of 10

Characterization:

5 out of 10

Primary Element:

6 out of 10 for its suspense, 7 out of 10 for its romance

Writing Style:

5 out of 10

Part of a Series:

No. 1 in the Cardwell Ranch series

Highlighted Takeaway:

Nothing really remains with you long enough to be taken away.

What I Liked:

The plot twists, although predictable, were decent.

What I Didn’t Like:

No one in this book speaks to one another. Apparently, it’s easier to remain angry and detach yourself, than give the person you supposedly love the most in the world a chance to talk. Is it really that difficult to just speak to one another?

Characters were incredibly clichéd. Women are feminine, but strong and determined. Men are sinfully handsome, troubled, but trying to do the right thing.

Who Should Read It:

Anyone who enjoys Mills & Boon books, or similar, typical romances and the romantic suspense genre.

Who Should Avoid:

Anyone who likes their stories to go beyond the basic theme, and expects greater depth in story and characterization.

Read It For:

The love of basic romances – its typical romantic turmoil with a splash of suspense keeps the story moving forward. Or read it as a way to escape into a book for a short while.

The Intrigue series is a huge success and, I’m sure, for good reason. But it’s just not my cup of tea (anymore). If it’s romantic suspense you’re looking for, there are better ones out there. But if you are looking for something less complicated but still steamy enough with a touch of suspense, the Intrigue books will not disappoint.

As always, thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read my two cents worth!

– Rishika

July 14, 2019July 14, 2019

Good Premise, Weak Implementation: A Review of Trance (By Adam Southward)

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an ARC of this book. Trance released on 1 July and is now available for sale. I wish I could’ve enjoyed it more because the blurb had been incredibly promising. But there were some issues that just couldn’t be ignored in this psychological thriller.

Oh well… Let’s get right to the review of Adam Southward’s Trance.

Southward-Trance-28012-CV-FL-v4.indd — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Psychological thriller, Mystery

Length:

336 page

Blurb:

Three University scientists are found dead in a horrifying murder-suicide. Victor Lazar is found outside the room and imprisoned as the only suspect. But soon, other inmates are driven to suicide. And then the psychologist assigned to Lazar kills himself.

Private therapist, Alex Madison, used to be one of the best forensic psychologists in the city until the events that led to his downfall, personally and professionally. When he’s called in to interview and diagnose Lazar, he knows it’s a chance at redemption. But the case forces him to look beyond everything he’s known and learned about psychology and psychiatry. Will Madison find his redemption? Or will he end up losing everything he still holds dear in the revenge saga that Lazar is building?

Overall Rating:

5 out of 10

Plot:

7 out of 10

Characterization:

5 out of 10

Primary Element:

4 out of 10 for the psychological thriller aspect, 6 out of 10 for its mystery

Writing Style:

6 out of 10

Part of a Series:

According to Goodreads, this is the first of the books in the series of the primary protagonist – Alex Madison.

Highlighted Takeaway:

The basic premise – if this had been explored more, it would’ve been a very different (and much better) read.

What I Liked:

The book doesn’t shy away from being violent and abrupt, making it a fast-paced read.

What I Didn’t Like:

The psychological basis of the story was just a given, which takes away the entire mystery of, “How is this happening?”
Characters were one-dimensional
Plot twists were predictable
The main protagonist, although probably one of the better parts of the book, could probably have done with a little more rationality. Although not as cringe-worthy and annoying, Madison’s character reminded me a lot of another confused character that I’d absolutely detested – Lorna – from Samantha Hayes’ Tell Me A Secret (review of that apparent psychological thriller is here).

Who Should Read It:

Anyone looking for a quick mystery, pseudo-thriller – as long as you’re not expecting a book that stays with you forever.

Who Should Avoid:

Anyone who likes psychological thrillers because of the depth they often offer into the human psyche – Trance has a good premise but does nothing to follow it up.

Read It For:

A fast holiday or non-serious weekend read option.

All in all, I’d say that Trance doesn’t have to be one your TBR list. Adam Southward is a talented writer who probably has some great ideas. I’d love to see them more fleshed out though so as to actually make for a compelling, memorable read. As for Trance… it’s a good option for when you want something fast and not too sensible.

Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read this review.

– Rishika

July 1, 2019July 1, 2019

Keeps the Pace Up: A Review of Redemption (By David Baldacci)

Amos Decker is back!

If you’ve read any of my previous reviews of the books starring the man brought to life by David Baldacci, you’ll know that Amos Decker is one of my favorite literary characters. And Redemption, while keeping up the pace that its prequel – the Fallen – had set, just adds more reasons to love the flawed, moralistic, often pig-headed Decker.

David Baldacci Redemption — Source: Goodreads

Genre:

Mystery, Thriller

Length:

418 pages

Blurb:

Amos Decker returns to his hometown of Burlington to visit his wife and daughter’s graves on the day that would have been his daughter’s fourteenth birthday, and comes face to face with Meryl Hawkins. Hawkins had murdered four people, thirteen years ago, including two children. He’d been found guilty of the murder on the basis of overwhelming evidence – evidence that Decker and his partner, Mary Lancaster, had found as detectives assigned to their first homicide. Released due to a terminal illness, Hawkins claims that he’s innocent, and he wants Decker to find the real killer. Decker refuses. Until another murder shocks the town and brings up an unexpected connection to the thirteen-year-old case. Had Decker really made a mistake and caused an innocent man’s incarceration? If Hawkins was innocent, who had really committed the four murders? And how many people may die if Decker doesn’t find the right answers in time?

Overall Rating:

8 out of 10

Plot:

8 out of 10

Characterization:

10 out of 10

Primary Element:

7 out of 10 for its mystery

Writing Style:

7 out of 10

Part of a Series:

Yes. This is the fifth book in the Amos Decker series, which is best read in chronological order:

Memory Man (review here)
The Last Mile (review here)
The Fix (review here)
The Fallen (review here)

Highlighted Takeaway:

The shift from who Decker began as in Memory Man, to the character he’s now been made into. It’s a risk – playing with the essence of what makes Decker, Decker. But Baldacci has built the shift well over the series, making it such that you can easily associate and empathize with this version of him.

What I Liked:

Each character holds their own in Redemption, making for a book that has multiple personal tangents that tie together really well. Vulnerabilities and strengths of all characters are well-explored to make them all relatable, and get the reader invested in the story.

What I Didn’t Like:

There was nothing specific that is unlikable in the book.

Who Should Read It:

Anyone who enjoys intricate and layered storylines, and anyone who likes complex mysteries that are about more than just the case at hand. Also, anyone who’s a fan of David Baldacci – the Decker series is one of his most popular one and for good reason.

Who Should Avoid:

People that enjoy thrillers where the chill gets into your bone. While Redemption is a thriller in that you’re turning the pages in a rush to know what happens next, it won’t leave you looking over your shoulder. So if that’s what you look for in a thriller, then it may be best to avoid Redemption.