REVIEW: The Surgeon by John Nicholl

The Surgeon by John Nicholl

Genre: Psychological thriller

Read: 5th November 2025

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 19th October 2025

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Your life is in his hands… Exactly where he wants it 👀

When an eminent surgeon is arrested for murder, he knows he didn’t do it. He knows what it’s like to feel a person die on his operating table, but he didn’t inflict the wounds that ended the life of the girl they say he killed.

So, when the real perpetrator comes forward, and he is released, he feels vindicated.

What nobody knows – not the officer who arrested him, nor the influencer who petitioned for his freedom, nor the girl who escaped a killer years before – is that while he was incarcerated, he was making a plan.

Because revenge is sweet. But murder is sweeter…

A totally twisty, unhinged and gripping suspense thriller that fans of Daniel Hurst, TM Logan and Frieda McFadden won’t be able to put down.

MY THOUGHTS:

Your life is in his hands...which is exactly where he wants it...

Professor Alexander Aitken is one surgeon you would not like to be under, nor his scalpel. He is not like other surgeons who value their Hippocratic oath to first do no harm. When he was found by the body of murder victim Holly Larkin, her blood on his hands and his bite marks on her neck, it was naturally assumed that he was responsible for her untimely demise. And for the past five years, he has sat in prison for her murder - a death for which he was innocent in this case. But innocent was something Aitken most certainly was not. Oh, he was of Holly's murder but he was guilty of so much more than the police and the public at large were totally unaware of. And for the past five years and the months after his release once the real killer was discovered, he then spent planning his revenge. Because revenge is sweet...but murder is sweeter.

Ten years before, sixteen year old Megan Matthews was attacked on the dark streets of Tenby one evening barely escaping with her life and not before she'd been stabbed. She never saw her attacker and could never identify him but when she sees Professor Aitken on the West Wales news after his release and hears his voice, she stops. And then she sees those ice blue eyes. Her attacker wore a balaclava but she remembers those eyes and that caramel smooth voice. She takes her concerns to DI Laura Kesey who was always patient with her each time she thought she saw her attacker in the street. But this time, Megan is sure Aitken is the one. 

Aitken curses himself for letting sweet little Megan go all those years ago. And she now sits at the top of his revenge list to be the first of his "lab rats" for him to study and bend at will. She will do as he says and she will feel the blade of his scalpel once again. In fact, it will be the last thing she feels and his will be the last face she sees. He will make sure of that. next on his list is Laura Kesey - the pig who put him away for a crime he clearly didn't commit. He will make sure she pays for her misdemeanour...and he has the perfect way to make that happen. He can almost taste it it is so perfect.

DI Laura Kesey was supposed to be enjoying a holiday with her wife Janet and their son Ed in Lanzarote but she couldn't leave the case of Professor Aitken behind. There was just something about it that didn't sit right. He professes his innocence but she saw the material on his computer. The man is clearly deranged and disturbed. If he is innocent of this crime, he is most certainly guilty of something else. If not now, then he will be. Of that she is sure. But when she returns home and Aitken is freed for being unjustly imprisoned for a crime he hadn't committed, Laura is intent on uncovering exactly what he is guilty of...because he is, that is for sure. But her boss has made it abundantly clear that Professor Aitken of off limits. She is not to investigate him, question him or go anywhere near him in any way, shape or form. Unfortunately for her, that leave Aitken free to his own devices...a clear recipe for disaster for both her and anyone else who gets in his way.

John Nicholl is one of my favourite authors with his gritty writing that pulls no punches in his unique style. He has the ability to draw characters that we can both sympathise and hate in equal measure. Laura Kesey is a mainstay in his standalones and I was thrilled to see her former DS Raymond Lewis return despite his retirement after events that took place in the previous book. 

The chapters were a little longer I felt in this one though the book itself is a relatively quick read. Nicholl definitely knows how to paint a villain that readers love to hate. Aitken's scenes certainly do make for uncomfortable reading with disturbing scenes painted in vivid detail.

Not one of my favourite books but still a good read that packs a punch.

I would like to thank #JohnNicholl, #BoldwoodBooks and #Netgalley for an ARC of #TheSurgeon in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

John Nicholl, an ex-police officer, social worker and lecturer (and now a "serial chiller") as the award-winning, #1 bestselling author of numerous darkly psychological suspense thrillers. He began writing after leaving his job heading up child protection services.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

  

REVIEW: The Mother's Phone Call by Victoria Jenkins

The Mother's Phone Call by Victoria Jenkins

Genre: Psychological thriller

Read: 24th June 2025

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 16th January 2025

★★★ 3.5  stars

DESCRIPTION:

Gripping the phone, my hands tremble with fear. I look at my son and wonder how my darling blue-eyed boy could have done this. But as my eyes focus down on the body, I know what I must do. I know it will destroy our lives forever. “Hello? I need help. It’s my child. He’s killed someone.”

As my son looks at me, his eyes pleading for help, all I can think in that moment is that I will do whatever it takes to protect him. A young girl’s lifeless body lies on the ground and my heart breaks when I realise I’m already too late to save her.

Our family will never be the same again.

I know I should call for help. But looking towards the phone table I see an old picture of the children playing in the garden. Our children and hers. We used to be so close, I thought our families would be together for a lifetime. But in a moment of rage, the life I imagined has been snatched away.

But if I’m honest, I’ve been kidding myself about how perfect our lives were. I’m a mother. I should be able to keep my children safe. But what I see in front of me cannot be denied. No one else is here. My son’s guilty.

How far will I go to protect him? 

A completely gripping and pulse-pounding psychological thriller that will have you turning the pages late into the night. Perfect for fans of The Wife Between Us, The Girl on the Train and anything by Shari Lapena.

MY THOUGHTS:

Not often I read the same author two books in a row but I thought "why not?" Despite its title, there is far more going on than just a phone call. In fact the said phone call doesn't take place until about 20% or so in. But it does pose the question of what would a mother do in such a situation? Mothers, by nature, tend to want to protect their young but at the same time it is also their job to teach them responsibility, accountability and doing the right thing...even if it breaks your heart to do so.

Jo and her husband Rob enjoy a nice life in their quiet little cul-de-sac with their 18 year old twins Alice and Toby. An affluent neighbourhood, they live across the road from their closest friends Eve, her husband Chris and their adult children Dylan (20) and Freya (18). The two families have been friends for years as Jo and Eve navigated motherhood together and they watched their children grow up together. Their lives were picture perfect...until a tragedy pitches them family against family.

The story opens with Jo and her family attending the overtly lavish summer party to celebrate 20 years of wedded bliss between Eve and Chris. Overtly lavish as only Eve could do. And of course only lavish would do for those Insta-pics that depict the carefully curated life she so wishes to convey to the world. As shallow as she can appear at times, Jo loves Eve though I'm not entirely sure why. The women are poles apart. Even their children are chalk and cheese. It is hardly surprising that Eve's daughter Freya is as shallow and fickle as her mother, seemingly taking pleasure in cruel pranks and wondering what the fuss is all about afterwards. I must admit I was surprised that Alice was friends with Freya - the girl was horribly cruel and enjoyed inflicting that cruelty.

It's while at the party, Alice overhears whispers of a conversation between her father and Eve that just didn't sound right... And it leaves her wondering how to confront him or even tell her mum. But even Toby appears to have harsh words with Freya and then Chris seems to let his hands wander a little too close to comfort when saying goodnight to Jo. Just what is going on with this family?

And so the night rolls into Sunday and all's well...and then rolls seamlessly into Monday (that I didn't even notice a change in the days). Jo is scrolling social media when she sees Eve posting a provocative posed pic of herself claiming to be recovering from a two day hangover. But it's a video shared to TikTok of Alice that has everybody seeing red. But is it enough to kill for?

That evening, with the family safely tucked up in their beds, Jo is pondering the provocative photo of Eve when she receives a phone call from Toby. Toby? But isn't he upstairs in bed? He tells her he is across the street at Freya's house and that something awful has happened. When Jo rushes over nothing can prepare her for the scene that greets her. Freya laying in a pool of blood with Toby standing next to her, bloodied and in tears. Then making the hardest decision she calls the police to report the crime her son has committed. The police arrive, he's arrested and the families are pitched against each other.

Alice cannot believe her brother would kill Freya, or anyone. But the evidence clearly points to him and his prints were on the weapon and her blood was all over him. And worse of all, Toby remains silent refusing to comment when questioned or shed any light on what had happened. But would they believe him if he tried? Probably not. After all, his own mother believed it of him after taking one look at the scene so of course the police will do too. 

What ensues is a fight to uncover the truth and clear Toby's name while Freya's family are hellbent on showing him up for who he is - a murderer who killed their beautiful and innocent girl. Innocent, my eye. That girl gave as good as she got and was the product of her environment. But who is lying? Who is telling the truth? And what really happened that night when Freya was killed?

An interesting Desperate Housewives-ish tale that unfolds through the alternating narratives of Jo and Alice, this story has secrets and lies in abundance with plenty of toxic characters and layers of deceit to unravel.

Overall, a dark and twisted tale that was both enjoyable and entertaining.

I would like to thank #VictoriaJenkins, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheMothersPhoneCall in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Victoria Jenkins is a Welsh author who has made a name for herself writing the highly popular Detective King and Lane series of novels. The first novel in the series was “The Girls In The Water” that Jenkins first published in 2017 and is an Amazon UK top 30 bestseller, and top 5 bestseller in the Amazon US chart., to much critical acclaim and popularity among crime fiction fans.

The series of novels features Detective Constable Chloe Lane and Detective Inspector Alex King, who are the lead investigative characters that solve some mysterious murders in their hometown.

Her first psychological thriller, The Divorce, was published in July 2019. The second, The Argument, was published December 10th 2019 and The Accusation was published June 9th 2020, followed by The Playdate, The New Family and The Bridesmaids.

Victoria lives with her husband and daughter in South Wales, where her series of crime novels featuring Detectives King and Lane is based.

 

Social Media links:

Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

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REVIEW: The New Family by Victoria Jenkins

The New Family by Victoria Jenkins

Genre: Psychological thriller

Read: 22nd June 2025

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 16th November 2021

★★★★ 3.5 stars (rounded up)

DESCRIPTION:

You just met your new neighbours, but they already know you…

As I open the door to the house I grew up in, I take in the family photos I haven’t looked at since my sister died. It will never be the happy place it once was, not since that night twenty years ago. Renting it to a new family is a fresh start, and single dad Oliver and his sweet son Finley seem like the perfect fit.

Calling by the house, I notice how few belongings they have; no toys for Finley or pictures of his mother. Why does Oliver shut down when I ask him about his life? And who is the man I see him arguing with in the street? I thought he was a stranger to this small town…

Fearing for Finley’s safety, I let myself inside in search of answers. But the smiling face in the photo I find hidden in Oliver’s bedroom chills me to my core. He knows exactly who I am and all the secrets of my past. Breath catches in my throat. Is my life now in terrible danger?

The New Family is an addictive psychological thriller with a twist you won’t see coming, perfect for fans of The Wife, The Silent Patient and Lisa Jewell

MY THOUGHTS:

I've seen many post trigger warnings for this book but I don't think it is needed as most psychological thrillers often have an element of these things. But not only that, they are so subtle or are just part of a backstory that they are not really the main event. All but one of them, that is. And even so, it is just subtle nuances that allude to it - a photo here, a message there - nothing so in your face to warrant clear cut warnings.

It's been a while since I've read Victoria Jenkins and I've usually enjoyed her thrillers so was looking forward to this one. Especially as they are generally featured in Wales, one of my favourite settings. This tale of woe (and it really is) was published back in 2021 and somehow slipped through my shelf. It's a slow burn with two parallel stories unfolding through alternating chapters with the reader wondering how the two will collide.

September 2019: Brooke is taking a walk along the coastal path to her favourite secluded beach when she meets handsome Oliver and his young son Finley. Oliver is looking for somewhere to stay and as Brooke rents out her childhood home as a holiday let, which is currently standing vacant until her next booking in January, she offers them the use of the little cottage. When he and Finley move in, Brooke is surprised with how few belongings they have but doesn't question it. Who is she to judge anyway with the skeletons rattling around in her closet? 

Then the little gallery and loft in which she lives and sells her paintings suddenly burns down in which she loses everything. The fire is investigated and soon deemed to be arson but the police are no closer to finding the perpetrator, leaving Brooke without a home until it is repaired. But her lifelong friend and neighbour Sylvia lets her move into her spare room indefinitely which proves to be a godsend. She begins to spend a lot of time with Oliver and Finley. Despite the little boy being quiet and introverted, he begins to warm to Brooke but it is clear he is haunted by something which makes him withdrawn and always looking so sad. Added to that, he has begun sleepwalking.

The more time Brooke spends with Oliver and Finley the more she in curious about their past. She has so many questions about where they've come from? How did they end up here in Wales? Where is Fin's mother? What is their story? But again, Brooke can hardly judge given her own past. She's just curious.

February 2018: Juggling motherhood and her job as a physiotherapist, Christina is married to Matthew and mother to twins Elise and Edward. But she's not happy and she doesn't know why that is when she has an adoring husband and two beautiful, yet demanding, toddlers. She has been embarking on an illicit affair with lawyer Joel who had come to her a client with a football injury. 

But when Christina breaks off their affair, Joel doesn't appear to take it well. Soon he bombards her with bizarre gifts, strange phone calls and messages - all threatening by nature with the undertone of "tick tock, time is running out". For what? Is he threatening to reveal their affair to her husband? Her family? Her friends? Or worse... her clients? Is Joel trying to win her back through his threats or does he want to ruin her life? If Matthew discovers her secret, he will surely take the twins and she wouldn't see her children again. Just the anxiety of this whole debacle is making her sick - and Matthew has noticed her constant headaches and nausea so it won't be long until he figures out just what she has been hiding. And Christina has no idea what she will do then...

The slow burn unfold of each tale is twisted with both women and the secrets they are hiding, giving the reader plenty of questions about how these two women are related to the same story. I must admit, I had no clue at first - so different they were. Brooke in Wales, Christina in London. Not only that, the events take place around 18 months apart. I had many questions running through my mind until I settled on one that seemed to fit. I picked up little nuances, little clues that Jenkins peppered throughout both stories, and I was convinced I had one half of the big reveal. And I did. Once I worked that out, it wasn't difficult to figure out the rest.

I must say though you will have to suspend belief a little - as is usually the way with psychological thrillers - and the story does get a little convoluted, particularly with how it all collides into one big explosion. I will say that things ramped up for the last 20% and that's where it all became interesting and everything fell into place. Prior to that, it was very slow moving. A little too slow for my tastes but my interest was piqued enough to keep turning the pages and I'm glad I did because you do get there in the end. I didn't not like the book - I just think the slow burn was far too long.

This is a hard book to rate. I'm not a fan of slow burns and tend to fall asleep at the non-event of happenings but I think it was one woman's story that kept me turning the pages. I felt more invested in Brooke's than I did in Christina's. I didn't care for her as I felt she had everything and yet it still wasn't enough so she went looking elsewhere. Plus Brooke's story unfolded in Wales which was a far more picturesque setting, if not unstable in both weather and WiFi. LOL It was still an enjoyable read and I am leaning towards 3.5 stars - but to round it up or down? I'd round it down for the 80% slow burn (too much in my opinion) or up for the satisfying conclusion.

Just a bit of trivia: I found it ironic that one of the characters is Christina and her husband is Matthew. My name is Christina and my brother is Matthew.

I would like to thank #VictoriaJenkins, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheNewFamily in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Victoria Jenkins is a Welsh author who has made a name for herself writing the highly popular Detective King and Lane series of novels. The first novel in the series was “The Girls In The Water” that Jenkins first published in 2017 and is an Amazon UK top 30 bestseller, and top 5 bestseller in the Amazon US chart., to much critical acclaim and popularity among crime fiction fans.

The series of novels features Detective Constable Chloe Lane and Detective Inspector Alex King, who are the lead investigative characters that solve some mysterious murders in their hometown.

Her first psychological thriller, The Divorce, was published in July 2019. The second, The Argument, was published December 10th 2019 and The Accusation was published June 9th 2020, followed by The Playdate, The New Family and The Bridesmaids.

Victoria lives with her husband and daughter in South Wales, where her series of crime novels featuring Detectives King and Lane is based.

 

Social Media links:

Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

REVIEW: The Boyfriend by John Nicholl

The Boyfriend by John Nicholl

Genre: Psychological thriller

Read: 26th April 2025

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 4th April 2025

★★★★★ 5 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Not every love story is a fairytale romance…

When Anna first meets Mark, she thinks he’s the perfect boyfriend. Wealthy and charming, he showers her with gifts, compliments, everything she has ever desired.

But Mark is less a prince than a man with a dangerous secret, and as their love life becomes ever darker, Anna flees him.

There is nowhere safe from him, though. Not for Anna. Nor for the girlfriends who follow her.

Because this is a boyfriend who would kill to make sure he can continue to kiss sleeping princesses…

A pulse-poundingly gripping suspense thriller, perfect for fans of Daniel Hurst, TM Logan and Anita Waller.

MY THOUGHTS:

Not every love story is a fairytale romance...

I love John Nicholl's thrillers. I love their dark and disturbing nature as he draws on his experience as a police officer and child protection social worker to weave his tapestries a vivid array of deep dark colours. And yet despite their nature, they are quick easy reads easily devoured in hours...as I did this one.

This tale is different from some of his others which are more character driven by those involved rather than from the police. Whilst this too is character driven, it revolves primarily around the police persepctive but with a personal touch, bringing home the dark nature of the disturbing tale.

Anna thought she had the perfect boyfriend in Mark with his good looks, his charm and his wealth, but as we see from the very first chapter he is anything but. With only a few paragraphs in we see that he is Shady by name as well as by nature. And as Anna takes her allegations to the police and then to court we are left wondering what hope does she have up against him?

She said no. Mark doesn't take no. Ever. He wants what he wants and he knows he will get away with it - again. He always does. He played her like a fiddle. Lured her in with his good looks and charm, showering her with gifts, and was the perfect boyfriend. Until he wasn't. Until he turned nasty and wanted what he felt was rightfully his to take whether she consented or not. Let her report him. Let her tell her story. No one will believe her. Not with her word against his, an upstanding businessman.

DS Ray Lewis has walked beside Anna from the moment she came in to file her report against Shady. He knows what type of person he is and knows he will not stop. He needs to be stopped but proving rape is notoriously difficult. And Shady was a slippery fish that could talk his way out of anything. None of the allegations against him have stuck thus far so in the eyes of the law he has no criminal record. But Ray knows different. And he knows what Shady is capable of. Particularly when Anna reveals a secret that she never let on before the trial, giving Ray even more reason to be concerned.

What's even worse - Shady has a new girlfriend. The daughter of a colleague of Ray's and he fears for the girl's safety. Shady is a monster who needs to be locked up but until they can nail him and get him off the streets, Ray and his colleagues can only sit by and wait for him to make a mistake. 

But then Shady makes things personal and it takes all of Ray's strength not to react. He knows he is goading him for a reaction. But then he gets some frightening photos in the post. And suddenly all bets are off.

This is an incredibly dark and disturbing tale with an antagonist that will make your skin crawl. DI Laura Kesey returns as she pops up in each of Nicholl's standalones but I can't remember whether Ray does or not. I seem to recall him but he plays a far bigger role in this one that any other before, if so. I absolutely loved Lewis. He is an old school copper, not one for the new ways of policing but too close to retirement to jeopardise his pension.

This is a hard one to review because I don't want to give too much away but it is a tense read from start to finish. I read this in one sitting devouring it in an afternoon (dinner was put on hold until I swiped that last page). Let it be said that if you love John Nicholl's thrillers you are going to love this one. It has his dark signature all over it with a surprising, yet brilliant, end.

I would like to thank #JohnNicholl, #Netgalley and #BoldwoodBooks for an ARC of #TheBoyfriend in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

John Nicholl, an ex-police officer, social worker and lecturer (and now a "serial chiller") as the award-winning, #1 bestselling author of numerous darkly psychological suspense thrillers. He began writing after leaving his job heading up child protection services.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

 

SPOTLIGHT: The Open Marriage by Victoria Jenkins

The Open Marriage by Victoria Jenkins

Genre: Psychological thriller

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 21st June 2024

** Due to a change in circumstances I have had to drop out and relinquish my tour/review obligations until further notice. I will publish my review and thoughts after reading **

DESCRIPTION:

It was supposed to save us. It destroyed us.

My husband, Marcus, and I used to be so in love. But now, after ten years together, we barely talk. I’ve seen so many of our friends’ marriages end in divorce, and I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to stop that from happening to us.

And then I meet Erin. She tells me all about her perfect marriage to Kieran, and I’m shocked when she reveals the secret to their marital bliss—they have an open marriage. My heart starts to race as I consider it for me and Marcus. Could we really do this?

When Marcus cautiously agrees, I know it can’t be with strangers, and so I call Erin. She tells me there is only one rule: complete honesty. But when I meet Kieran, it doesn’t take long for me to break that rule. Soon this isn’t an open marriage, but an affair.

As I start to fall for Kieran, Marcus becomes the attentive husband I’ve been craving, and I’m soon full of regret. This was all an awful mistake and I swear to end it. But my blood runs cold when Erin is reported missing. Who is this couple I’ve entangled our life with? And as the police knock on my door, it’s much more than just my marriage that is now at stake…

For fans of Lisa Jewell, Gone Girl and The Housemaid, this is a psychological thriller with a twist you’ll never see coming.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Victoria Jenkins is a Welsh author who has made a name for herself writing the highly popular Detective King and Lane series of novels. The first novel in the series was “The Girls In The Water” that Jenkins first published in 2017 and is an Amazon UK top 30 bestseller, and top 5 bestseller in the Amazon US chart., to much critical acclaim and popularity among crime fiction fans.

The series of novels features Detective Constable Chloe Lane and Detective Inspector Alex King, who are the lead investigative characters that solve some mysterious murders in their hometown.

Her first psychological thriller, The Divorce, was published in July 2019. The second, The Argument, was published December 10th 2019 and The Accusation was published June 9th 2020, followed by The Playdate, The New Family and The Bridesmaids.

Victoria lives with her husband and daughter in South Wales, where her series of crime novels featuring Detectives King and Lane is based.

 

Social Media links:

Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

PUBLISHER:

Stay up to date with upcoming releases from Bookouture by following them on these social media accounts.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

REVIEW: The Workhouse Girl by Lynette Rees

The Workhouse Girl by Lynette Rees

Genre: Historical fiction, Sagas, Victorian Era

Read: 3rd June 2024

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 31st May 2024

★★★★★ 5 stars

DESCRIPTION:

Once a workhouse girl, always a workhouse girl...

Enid Hardcastle has always had a hard life, but when her family can’t make ends meet and are moved to the workhouse, it feels like things can’t get any worse.

But luckily for Enid, her friendship with local boy Jimmy gives her the strength she needs. Also from the cold, hard streets of Merthyr, Jimmy has made his name as an entrepreneur, repairing boots and hand-delivering them to the fine people of the town.

Enid has seen for herself that you can make a better life for yourself, so with Jimmy’s help, she sets about trying to save her family.

But there are even darker places than the workhouse, and as the rumour mill churns, it appears there’s an even more dangerous fate she will need to avoid…

An emotional and nostalgic historical saga that will have you turning pages, engrossed. Perfect for fans of Sheila Newberry and Lynn Johnson.

MY THOUGHTS:

This delightful saga takes place alongside the first in this series "The Winter Waif"  and tells the story of Enid Hardcastle, Betsan's friend she encounters when first venturing into the part of town called "China".

Enid and her family are forced into the workhouse and are thus separated, but Enid's story is only just beginning as she is boarded out to work in service with the Clarksons. But alas, circumstances conspired against her and she was sent back to the workhouse and then onto Cardiff, where she confided in the house mistress there who encouraged her to write to her former employer explaining what had happened. 

Henceforth, the letter lead to a meeting which then lead to greater things for Enid in the form of a respectable position in a far welcoming household. She made friends and something of herself as she was promoted to upper housemaid, to whom all the other maids answered and looked to.

But life was no easy by any measure. She was separated from her family and longed for her childhood sweetheart, Jimmy Corcoran. But the one who had ruined her life was to enter it once again but this time Enid was ready for him.

A delightfully easy read, it was lovely to meet up with Enid, Jimmy, Mags and even Betsan again. I knew little of Enid's story from Betsan's in "The Winter Waif" but it was good to see it expanded on so we got to know her better.

A wonderful read.

I would like to thank #LynetteRees, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheWorkhouseGirl in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Lynette Rees, is a former writing therapist, tutor and mentor. Lynette has spoken locally about her books at various events and book launches in her home town of Merthyr Tydfil.

Lynette's historical fiction novel, 'The Workhouse Waif', hit the number one spot on the Amazon Kindle bestseller list in 'Victorian Historical Romance' during October of 2016, it remains one of her most popular books to date. Much to her delight, she was contacted by the commissioning editor of Quercus Books who had downloaded the book and loved the story so much, she offered her a traditional publishing deal for that book and three others in the series which were published during 2018 and 2019.

"The Winter Waif" is her first book published by Boldwood in early January 2024.

Lynette enjoys writing in a variety of genres including crime fiction and [contemporary romance where she writes under the name of 'Crystal Carter'.]

Lynette lives in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales.

Social Media links:

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

 

REVIEW: The Holiday by John Nicholl

The Holiday by John Nicholl

Genre: Psychological thriller, Suspense

Read: 22nd February 2024

Goodreads

Amazon

Published: 21st February 2024

★★★★ 4 stars

DESCRIPTION:

It was meant to be the perfect getaway…

As I board the plane, all I can feel is hope and excitement. One whole week away. Just me and the man I have promised to be with forever.

Time to repair what has been broken. Maybe even try for another baby, and pray that this time it doesn’t end heartbreakingly.

I just need to not think about what George has done. He’s my husband. And this is the holiday where we make things right.

But then I realise he can’t take his eyes off the beautiful woman who’s just boarded the plane in front of me…

In that moment, everything changes.

And nobody is safe.

A gripping, twisty, breathtaking psychological thriller that will keep you reading late into the night. If you loved The Housemaid, The Girl on the Train and The Couple at No.9, you’ll be addicted to The Holiday.

MY THOUGHTS:

It was meant to be the perfect getaway...

...but this holiday is anything BUT a holiday! What I wouldn't give for a week in Tenerife, sipping pina coladas by the pool, walking on the sand at sunset, swimming in the pristine waters. But I haven't even got a passport so the closest I can get is to dream.

Firstly, Suzie and George. Has anyone ever met a more unlikely couple? Suzie is in love with George (more's the pity) but George is too busy being in love with himself (and Suzie's money). Although the sum of which is never disclosed, it is hinted at being a tidy sum that could mean he could chuck in his job at the gym and buy a luxurious home on the coast and never have to worry about money again. But George doesn't have access to Suzie's wealth, which she had won on a premium bond, and he spends the week in Tenerife and then back home trying to convince her to let him have even just a taster. A joint account. Shared assets. Paying off his debts. And new wills leaving all their worldly goods to each other.

But Suzie has a problem. She can't get past George's wandering eye, convinced that he has been unfaithful though she has yet to prove it. And under her father's guidance, she has cut off all access to her wealth and handing her husband out tidbits like he was a child. In some ways, he is. Like a teenager he thinks with only one part of his anatomy and lets that lead his life. George hates her that her father has so much influence over a grown woman's life. And he kind of has a point. I'm all for respecting your elders but reallty, Suzie's father is a bully who demands obedience and justifies it as God's law. Of course, Suzie is a strict Catholic so divorce was never going to be an option for her. As she says on more than one occasion, George is her cross to bear.

And then while they are on holiday in Tenerife, the holiday that is to be a new start for them both, Suzie strikes up an unlikely friendship with Amelia after the woman witnessed George's drunken tantrum poolside one afternoon. It's a friendship that continues when they return to Wales and one that Suzie is thankful for. But Amelia is stunningly gorgeous and she knows that George would ogle the woman given half the chance.

Howver, once they return to Wales Suzie gives George an ultimatum. Try for another baby and once she gives birth to a healthy child (after suffering two miscarriages) only then will she give him access to her wealth.

But this holiday, that was meant to be the perfect getaway and a new start for them both, turns out to be a nightmare...where nobody is safe...

This psychological thriller is so entertaining like a car crash from which you can't look away, with completely despicable characters who were as hateful as each other, and even with its oh-so predictable plot I had to stick around to see it through. Even to the very last line of the very last page...I was rolling my eyes at the ridiculousness of it and how gullible they all were. 

I love John Nicholl's books and as much as the characters were cringeworthy, it was so skillfully written that it was entertaining from start to finish. And I enjoyed the ride. 

I would like to thank #JohnNicholl, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheHoliday in exchange for an honest review.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

John Nicholl, an ex-police officer, social worker and lecturer (and now a "serial chiller") as the award-winning, #1 bestselling author of numerous darkly psychological suspense thrillers. He began writing after leaving his job heading up child protection services.

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REVIEW: Hold On, Edna! by Aneira Thomas

Hold On, Edna! by Aneira "Nye" Thomas

Genre: Historical, Biography, Non-Fiction

Read: 2nd January 2024

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Amazon

Published: 12th March 2020

★★★★★ 5 stars

DESCRIPTION:

THIS HEARTBREAKING, HEARTWARMING, TRUE STORY FOLLOWING THE HISTORY OF A FAMILY IN WALES IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT BOOKS EVER WRITTEN.

'I am a proud supporter of our National Health Service which has shown yet again what an important and valued institution it is in the UK. As the first NHS baby through to her work today, Aneira's story shows her dedication and passion for protecting this phenomenal service for future generations.' KEIR STARMER

'This book speaks from the heart about a passion to preserve our NHS - as powerful a symbol of goodness as we have. Nye's own experience and that of her family represents our deep need to fight for a society where all are equal in worth and value. And how the NHS stands fast as a symbol of equality, of fairness, and of compassion for all.' MICHAEL SHEEN

'Aneira has written a memoir which is a deeply personal, richly researched and incredibly timely tribute to Britain's commitment to provide free and equal healthcare to all.' - DAILY MAIL Book of the Week, 22 May 2020

'Moving tribute to the NHS.' - WI Life

_____________________________________________________________

'Edna,' says the doctor, coming to stand beside her bed. 'You need to wait. It's not long now. Don't push. Just hold on, Edna!'

The birth of the National Health Service coincided with the birth of one little girl in South Wales: Aneira 'Nye' Thomas, the first baby delivered by the NHS.

This is the touching story of Nye's family - their loves and losses - and the launch of a treasured public service that has touched the lives of every family in the nation.

MY THOUGHTS:

'Congratulations...your mother truly did make history that night.'

'Well, I might well have been born just before midnight, but I expect the attending doctor would have pushed me back in - just to make sure a Welsh baby was born first!'

These words were exchanged with the then future king, Prince Charles of Wales, at a function honouring the NHS, and the author and first baby born under the scheme, Aneira (Nye) Thomas had me chuckling, not just the notion but the sheer forwardness of doing so with someone so public and from the Royal family. I may have thought it but I'm not sure I would have been so bold as to utter them.

This book is something different from my usual fare but its concept and history so fascinated me that I opted to do something I don't usually do - spend so much on a book by an author I've never read and therefore have no idea if I will like. But HOLD ON, EDNA! is not just a walk through time peppered in facts and history but it's also a story of one woman's family who, interestingly enough, has a long history in healthcare of the day with her own great-grandmother a midwife to the women of Glamorgan. Even her own parents were working as nurses when they met. And many of her sisters and aunts were also nurses. And yet it didn't end there. Aneira herself also became a nurse and her daughter a paramedic. Her entire life is thanks to the NHS - from her very first breath till no doubt her very last.

On 5th July 1948 at just one minute past midnight, baby Aneira is born in a village hospital in South Wales. The first NHS baby - born under the very scheme that was the brainchild of a Welshman himself (Aneurin "Nye" Bevan) - and Aneira was named in his honour. Her mother, having birthed all of her previous six children at home under the guiding hand of the local midwife, Edna and her husband Willie have some difficulty comprehending this new service being offered to them that will cost them nothing. "It's free!" But it's not charity. It's paid for by the taxpayer and is based on need not wealth. At last a healthcare that is for everyone and not just the rich.

Aneira, also called Nye, details her family's origins as far back as 1834 when her great great grandmother was but a 9 year old child in a Somerset workhouse. But she retells it in such a way, as told to her by her own mother Edna, that you could be reading a Catherine Cookson or Lindsey Hutchinson novel. She keeps it real and yet interesting throughout whilst peppering her own input along the way. One baby, so small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things, whose birth was also that of the UK's National Health Service that for over seventy years has serviced millions of people that 100 years ago in Edna's time would surely not have thrived or even survived. Her story about the generations of her family from the workshouse to the mines, we follow their daily struggles most of which we take for granted today.

Aneira reflects on how had the system been in place in her ancestors' times, the mortality rate would have been considerably lower. Fewer women would have died in childbirth. Fewer children would have succumbed to illnesses that are eaily treatable today. Had the tools available today been available then life may well have been a little easier. But as it were, healthcare wasn't readily available to those unless you could pay for it. So if you were poor, as most were, then had to muddle along as best you could until the inevitable. It wasn't ideal but it was all one could do.

HOLD ON, EDNA! isn't just Aneira's story. That comes later. This is about her family, their struggles, their lives. And she tells it beautifully drawing parallels with history alongside today, painting a picture that is sure to leave readers thankful that they are lucky to have such a system in place. 

Healthcare based on need, not wealth. That is the basis of the NHS and why Nye Bevan fought tirelessly to pass the bill through parliament to ensure that no one need suffer needlessly because they cannot afford basic healthcare. Today we see it as a basic huamn right but it wasn't always. This book reminds us just how lucky we are to have our a public healthcare system in place, where ever we are in the world. It's also a sobering reminder that not every country in the world is lucky to have a health system like the NHS. In Australia, we have Medicare which has only been in place for 40 years (this year) and while it is flawed it is the best system we have and we are lucky to have it...because not everyone does.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is not long-winded or bogged down in factual text. It is a quick read that is kept interesting through Aneria's anecdotes as told to her by Edna and is a wonderful compelling read. I loved immersing myself into the era from 1834 through to the 1960s. Despite it being a biography, it doesn't have that droning and boring biographical feel. It is more like Lindsey Hutchinson cross Catherine Cookson peppered with Call the Midwife.

A truly wonderful read.

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Aneira and her mum, Edna

Aneira Thomas was born at one minute past midnight on 5 July 1948, making her first baby in Great Britain to be born into the NHS. She was named after Aneurin Bevan, the minister for health at the time who led on the plan for the NHS. Aneira spent her career working in the NHS as a mental health nurse (her four sisters were also nurses, and her daughter is now a paramedic), and continues to be an active supporter of the NHS, speaking out on a range of issues in the media and at public rallies.

Social Media links:

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REVIEW: The Gilded Cage by Luisa A. Jones

The Gilded Cage by Luisa A Jones

Genre: Historical fiction, Romance

Read: 13th August 2023

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Amazon

Published: 22nd June 2023

★★★★★ 5 stars

DESCRIPTION:

1897. Rosamund bows her head and steps slowly down the aisle. The satin of her gown whispers against the stone floor and a single tear falls into the bunch of yellow roses twisted in her trembling hands. Despite rumours of his cruelty, Rosamund has no choice but to become this man’s second wife.

After her wedding, Rosamund finds herself trapped in Sir Lucien Fitznorton’s lonely country estate. As she wanders the chilly halls, made shadowy by drapes of heavy velvet, she longs for the lost comforts of her childhood home, where she was the beloved only daughter to a doting father, now buried miles away. As a young woman with no fortune of her own, only death can release her from this misery.

Until she meets Joseph, her husband’s gruffly handsome new chauffeur. With his mop of salt-and-pepper hair and lilting accent, Joseph is from another world. One of clambering children and tea at scrubbed kitchen tables, the hollow scratch of hunger and long hours of hard work. Despite their differences, they find themselves increasingly drawn to one other.

But Sir Lucien is not only cruel, he’s devious too, and soon Rosamund finds herself caught in a dangerous web of secrets and lies. Is Rosamund’s fragile marriage nothing but a golden cage, trapping her between two men who desire her… and to what end?

One holds her captive and the other offers a hope of escape… but who really holds the key to Rosamund’s gilded prison?

A gripping and emotional historical novel, fans of Lucinda Riley and Tracy Rees won’t be able to put this book down.

MY THOUGHTS:

I had been eagerly awaiting reading this historical tale and was devastated when my request was declined on Netgalley. However, I managed to purchase the title anyway such was my desire to read it. And I was not disappointed! I love losing myself in sweeping historical tales and this one was no different. It had a Downton-esque element to it with perspectives from the servants as well as the lady of the house. But it also has a much darker side, one that is sensitively handled despite its horrific nature.

Beginning in 1897, Rosamund Pelham is dealt a savage blow when her brother Tristram marries her off to the aging and ghastly Sir Lucien Fitznorton, citing debts left by their father and having to sell her childhood home with no means with which to keep her in the manner to which she is accustomed. But nothing could prepare her for marriage to Sir Lucien. From their wedding night, he staked his claim on the virginal Rosamund using brute force and taking what he saw as rightfully his. His abuse is horrendous and depraved, abusing her in every way imaginable. And sixteen years later, the once bright vivacious young woman is silenced and now trapped within a gilded cage.

Household staff suspect what goes on but theirs is not to reason why nor to question their betters. But what makes them better? Class, power, money, aristocracy...certainly not morality, kindness or compassion. Lady Fitznorton's ladies maid, Nellie Dawson, is perhaps the closest to her ladyship to see the damage he leaves behind. The bruises on her wrists, back, neck, the scratches and welts across her breasts, the cigar burns on her abdomen, the scratches on her thighs. Yes, his Lordship may be aristocracy but he is a brute and a cruel one at that. Every morning, Nellie bathes Rosamund's wounds and draws a bath filled with lavender scent to ease her aches left from the previous night's brutal ministrations. Immobilised and traumatised by her husband's cruelty, Rosamund is eventually unable to function and becomes a shell of herself, devoid of life and spirit. Her one rebellion is to refuse food so that she may have that little bit of control that would keep her body repugnant from him. But still it doesn't stop his abuse.

When Sir Lucien purchases a new motor car, he also employs a new chaffaeur with the engineering and mechanical expertise needed to maintain it. And so Rosamund meets Joseph, who unwittingly steps into her life and shows her kindness again. When Sir Lucien and his spoilt daughter Charlotte travel to London, Rosamund uses her new-found freedom to learn to drive and undertakes Joseph to teach her. The experience is as exhilerating as it is dangerous, for if any staff loyal to Sir Lucien himself were to choose they could report her activities to her husband who would then find new ways of torturing her. And pay for it, she will, make no mistake. Still, Rosamund gains a confidence she has not felt since the passing of her dear papa. But is it enough to see her through what is to come? For doubtless, there will be repercussions. Esepcially as rumours begin to fly about Rosamund spending so much time with the chaffeur, and soon she realises that may have endangered not only herself but that of Joseph and his position at Plas Norton.

Oh, how I loved this book! I devoured it late into the night and then immediately picked it up the following morning and would not put it down until I had turned the last page. And even then, it left me wanting more. And yet, it ended just perfectly. I loved the Epilogue and thought it the perfect ending through Nellie's eyes. 

This book is perfect for fans of "Downton Abbey" or any historical fiction and will appreciate the Downton-esque similarities throughout. I particularly like Rosamund's maid, Nellie, who has very aptly a voice in this story and while she may have thought her ladyship to be cold and aloof to begin with, it isn't long before loyalty wins and she becomes a wonderful ally, fighting Rosamund's corner from below the stairs. My heart went out to Rosamund who finds herself trapped in a marriage to an abusive brute from which she sees no escape. Lusia's elaborate depiction of the abuse and its psychological trauma is both horrendous as well as accurate. The description of Rosamund's curling into a foetal position to protect herself; her seemingly cold and aloof nature; her act of rebellion to starve herself; her entire demeanour is one of resignation to her circumstances. She sees no end in sight to the torment inflicted on her night after night after night and the new and depraved ways in which her husband finds to further humiliate and control her, to keep her wings clipped and trapped in her gilded cage for all eternity. It is heartbreaking to read and one can be forgiven for feeling a rage towards the brute who mistreats her so. Honestly, it is difficult to see her so broken and terrified of her husband. His voice was the most brutal of all.

And then there is Joseph. Normally, I don't reconcile infidelity in any way but fiction is fiction and anything goes. And while we do venture into Lady Chatterley territory, I still feel it is done sensitively. Joseph allowed Rosamund to find her confidence, her inner strength and the courage to step out of that cage that kept her bound for so long. He also gives his voice to the story along with that of his wife Mary, and it leaves the reader to wonder just how this will all play out.

There is so much to love about this book, as well as some not to like. But the ending was a surprise. I didn't see it taking that road but it was a lovely divergent to the tangled mess left behind otherwise. 

Expertly crafted, THE GILDED CAGE is a heartbreaking tale of despair, sorrow, strength and resilience. But it is also one of hope. I cannot praise this book highly enough and I will eagerly look out for more of the author's work if this one is anything to go by. 

A well deserved 5 stars!

#LuisaAJones 

#StormPublishing 

#TheGildedCage 

MEET THE AUTHOR:

Luisa A Jones lives in South Wales, and takes inspiration from the Welsh countryside, towns, history, and of course its people. Her writing explores the dynamics within relationships, the pressures that mental health issues can exert on people, and how these can be overcome.

Luisa studied Classical Studies at Royal Holloway and Bedford New College, University of London. Her previous jobs have included tour guide in an historic house; teacher in both primary and secondary schools; careers adviser; and corporate trainer/assessor.

Luisa loves using her creativity for crafting and baking, as well as writing historical and contemporary fiction with romantic elements. She and her husband are the proud owners of Gwynnie, a Volkswagen camper van built in 1974, which inspired the story behind Luisa's first book, Goes Without Saying. They have three children, a dog, and two cats. 

Becoming an author fulfilled a lifelong ambition.

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