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Stan Brookshire #1
Sacrifice of Innocence
A cult has been killing children for its rituals and only one cop knows who they are. But, Detective Stan Brookshire’s past keeps people from believing in him. Can he rise above the stigma that shrouds his past and stop a cult from taking yet another innocent child from her mother’s arms before its too late?
- GenresMystery ThrillerMystery
234 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Allison M. Cosgrove
9 books136 followersAllison Cosgrove was born and raised in a suburb of Toronto, Ontario. A married mother of three daughters, she runs her own business by day and creates her own worlds by night. She enjoys spending time with her husband and daughters hiking in the woods or sitting by the fire reading a good book. She has had the love of reading and writing detective mysteries from the age of twelve but it has only been since the birth of her youngest that she has gotten serious about crafting some of her own works for others to enjoy. She credits her family and friends with being the driving force that has given her the strength to breathe life into her books.
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What people are saying about the Stan Brookshire Series
Sacrifice of Innocence
"Couldn't put this down; read in a couple sessions. What I love about this novel is it's a mystery but not your typical mystery as it isn't like all the other books in this genre. The good guy is a good but he's up against corrupt cops, his own bad reputation (former drunk), a child-snatching cult... we also get to read from the point of view of the good guys, the bad guys and even both primary and secondary victims. The action really doesn't stop but it still manages to fit in plenty of getting to know each player and their backstory while providing small peaks into the mastermind behind the crime(s).
I do not even have to be sad that it is over, thanks to Dragon Twins & I'll be checking that out right away as I need more of Stan & his partner."
~Lacie Redding, Kissimmee, Fl
"Allison has created a memorable detective with Stan Brookshire. The premise of the story is, a cult has been killing children and Stan has to stop them before it's too late. The police believe they have the right man in custody but another kidnapping casts that into doubt. The trial is not going well, and despite the hope that the child was abducted by a copycat, Stan begins to believe that something more is happening. The mother of the child gets involved, and slowly the protagonists realize that this is not a standard kidnapping.
It was a well-crafted mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat. But the real reason I kept reading was I felt like I really got to know Detective Stan Brookshire through the story. I loved his interactions with the different characters and how he becomes emotionally involved.
I can't wait for the follow-up and to read more about Stan Brookshire. I would strongly recommend it to anybody who has grown tired of the other detective series out there."
~Joel Mark Harris, author of 1000 Bayonets
Dragon Twins
"Another great book! I couldn't put it down one I started reading. I can't wait for the next book. Great job!!!"
~Valerie Snyder, Fairbury, NE
"In Book 2 of the Stan Brookshire series, Cosgrove doesn’t miss a beat. Continuity is perfect as the recurring characters and places are just as they were in Book 1. Stan & Jane once again take a case to heart as it becomes personal and throughout the action and psychological thrills we are also treated to the strength of family – both that with blood ties and that without. Stan still hasn’t really learned how to follow the rules; will this be the case he loses his job over? I highly recommend this read, as well as its predecessor ‘Sacrifice of Innocence’."
Follow Me on Twitter and Facebook!!!
What people are saying about the Stan Brookshire Series
Sacrifice of Innocence
"Couldn't put this down; read in a couple sessions. What I love about this novel is it's a mystery but not your typical mystery as it isn't like all the other books in this genre. The good guy is a good but he's up against corrupt cops, his own bad reputation (former drunk), a child-snatching cult... we also get to read from the point of view of the good guys, the bad guys and even both primary and secondary victims. The action really doesn't stop but it still manages to fit in plenty of getting to know each player and their backstory while providing small peaks into the mastermind behind the crime(s).
I do not even have to be sad that it is over, thanks to Dragon Twins & I'll be checking that out right away as I need more of Stan & his partner."
~Lacie Redding, Kissimmee, Fl
"Allison has created a memorable detective with Stan Brookshire. The premise of the story is, a cult has been killing children and Stan has to stop them before it's too late. The police believe they have the right man in custody but another kidnapping casts that into doubt. The trial is not going well, and despite the hope that the child was abducted by a copycat, Stan begins to believe that something more is happening. The mother of the child gets involved, and slowly the protagonists realize that this is not a standard kidnapping.
It was a well-crafted mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat. But the real reason I kept reading was I felt like I really got to know Detective Stan Brookshire through the story. I loved his interactions with the different characters and how he becomes emotionally involved.
I can't wait for the follow-up and to read more about Stan Brookshire. I would strongly recommend it to anybody who has grown tired of the other detective series out there."
~Joel Mark Harris, author of 1000 Bayonets
Dragon Twins
"Another great book! I couldn't put it down one I started reading. I can't wait for the next book. Great job!!!"
~Valerie Snyder, Fairbury, NE
"In Book 2 of the Stan Brookshire series, Cosgrove doesn’t miss a beat. Continuity is perfect as the recurring characters and places are just as they were in Book 1. Stan & Jane once again take a case to heart as it becomes personal and throughout the action and psychological thrills we are also treated to the strength of family – both that with blood ties and that without. Stan still hasn’t really learned how to follow the rules; will this be the case he loses his job over? I highly recommend this read, as well as its predecessor ‘Sacrifice of Innocence’."
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 5, 2016
Children have gone missing and later found murdered. Fortunately there is a suspect in custody. Unfortunately, another child goes missing. Have they got the wrong man? Is there an accomplice involved? Detective Stan Brookshire and his partner Detective Jane Trinity are investigating.
But someone is trying to stop the detectives from getting too close. Stan is forced off the task force with a bunch of lies. Jane is still a part .. but mysteriously she is assaulted and winds up in the hospital.
The only people Stan trusts at this point is his partner, who is now in the hospital, and his partner’s husband. The one surprise is the last missing child’s mother, who has chosen to investigate on her own. What she discovers turns everything upside down.
There is a cult operating in his city … children are being used as sacrifices. Stan has his hands full. He has to clear his name, root out the dirty cops, and find a little girl before she becomes the next sacrifice.
Brookshire is not your typical hero. He’s a recovering alcoholic. His drinking lost him his wife and almost his job. He’s not a ladies’ man. It seems that everything he does is done under a watchful eye. He’s the one that gets blamed first, he’s the department’s fall guy. But what he is is dedicated to the job … seeking justice for the victims.
The book is well-written, although I would have appreciated more background information on the cult and its members. The main characters are finely drawn. My favorite character is Lily … the last missing child. She has guts and determination.
The final chapter was quite exciting and left me breathless until the final conclusion. This is just the first in this series, and if the following books are as action-packed and rousing, it’ll be well worth reading each and every one.
Many thanks to the author and NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
But someone is trying to stop the detectives from getting too close. Stan is forced off the task force with a bunch of lies. Jane is still a part .. but mysteriously she is assaulted and winds up in the hospital.
The only people Stan trusts at this point is his partner, who is now in the hospital, and his partner’s husband. The one surprise is the last missing child’s mother, who has chosen to investigate on her own. What she discovers turns everything upside down.
There is a cult operating in his city … children are being used as sacrifices. Stan has his hands full. He has to clear his name, root out the dirty cops, and find a little girl before she becomes the next sacrifice.
Brookshire is not your typical hero. He’s a recovering alcoholic. His drinking lost him his wife and almost his job. He’s not a ladies’ man. It seems that everything he does is done under a watchful eye. He’s the one that gets blamed first, he’s the department’s fall guy. But what he is is dedicated to the job … seeking justice for the victims.
The book is well-written, although I would have appreciated more background information on the cult and its members. The main characters are finely drawn. My favorite character is Lily … the last missing child. She has guts and determination.
The final chapter was quite exciting and left me breathless until the final conclusion. This is just the first in this series, and if the following books are as action-packed and rousing, it’ll be well worth reading each and every one.
Many thanks to the author and NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
August 12, 2012
This book is a thrill of a thriller. I could actually feel for Detective Brookshire as he was being framed by the antagonists. The supporting cast on Brookshire's side were effective. It makes me eagerly anticipate future works by the talented Allison Cosgrove.
September 9, 2012
From the very first page this book hooks you. Fantastic dialogue, intrigue, action & the characters are brilliantly flawed. I personally can't wait for the next in the series.
Allison Cosgrove is a strong new voice on the Indie Author scene and I am sure her popularity will grow from strength to strength as people become immersed in her stories and the lives of her well formed characters and dialogue.
Allison Cosgrove is a strong new voice on the Indie Author scene and I am sure her popularity will grow from strength to strength as people become immersed in her stories and the lives of her well formed characters and dialogue.
August 30, 2015
4.75 rounded up.
I was not sure what I was getting myself into when I got this book...holy dang! This book follows characters, that I could easily picture in my head, on an adventure to save the children of their town. Murder, Sacrifice, Drama...this book has it all!
I was not sure what I was getting myself into when I got this book...holy dang! This book follows characters, that I could easily picture in my head, on an adventure to save the children of their town. Murder, Sacrifice, Drama...this book has it all!
June 16, 2016
For a published book I found some mistakes. I thought there was too much angst and past personal problems to make the main characters interesting or plausible, and certainly not enough about the murders.
A NetGalley book
A NetGalley book
October 16, 2017
I was intrigued when I found this book. I love a really good detective book so I took the chance and man I am so glad I did . This book had me hooked from the very first chapter . I mean who doesn't like a good crime novel where there is a cult and a detective they want gone and do everything in their power it disgrace him. Stan Brookshire is out to figure out what is happening , after 4 children are abducted and murdered. The task force is set up to figure out what is happening . Will Stan and the rest of the team figure out who is doing the killing and will they save the last girl kidnapped
I adored the characters in this book they are well written and complex . Stan is your average guy , has his demons and works too hard . He is you basic battle scarred police officer but he can do his job and do it well. You see how he works when he is trying to figure everything out . He is such a good guy and you will cheer for him as he starts to put the pieces together . Jane is his straightforward no nonsense partner . She is the calm for his crazy and keeps him going . She is strong and sensible . I really liked her , she keeps everyone calm and doesn't believe half of what is going on even from the hospital . The rest of the characters are both good and evil , you have to keep your eyes out for the bad guys you can't believe who one of them is . They are so well written you will love them all
This book had me up all night reading , I couldn't put the book down . I needed to find out if everyone would come out ok. The author has a way of taking you to places you didn't think you would go . The story is complex and the characters are awesome. The only thing I wish the author would of done is expand on the cult just a little bit more , give us a little bit of the history . Other then that this is a fast paced book that will keep you reading all night long . So if you like detective thrillers check it out , I am headed off to get book two . So check it out .
December 14, 2023
First off, let me just say this is not a genre I normally read but I had met the author at a signing event and was intrigued enough by the synopsis to buy it.
The characters were believable and there were a few surprise twists and turns. I'm left with a couple of lingering questions but it's very possible they'll get addressed in future books.
That said, from the very first paragraph I was completely invested in where the story might go and remained enthralled until the very end. I think I might just have to pick up more books by this author.
Just an absolutely terrific read from start to finish.
The characters were believable and there were a few surprise twists and turns. I'm left with a couple of lingering questions but it's very possible they'll get addressed in future books.
That said, from the very first paragraph I was completely invested in where the story might go and remained enthralled until the very end. I think I might just have to pick up more books by this author.
Just an absolutely terrific read from start to finish.
October 15, 2012
I was initially drawn to this story by the premise. I love a good, solid thriller. Sacrifice of Innocence delivers on this front.
Ms. Cosgrove has created a character in Stan Brookshire that has the potential to rival that of Connelly’s Harry Bosch. But, I wanted more from him. He is a character that is likeable and relatable, which is why I expected more. He came across to me with all the hallmarks of a suspense novel detective, but I was struggling to find what would make him stand out. I liked, but I didn’t feel that I knew him. However, this may be intentional on the part of Ms. Cosgrove in order for the reader to see where Brookshire grows. I would keep reading to find out. The interaction between Stan and his partner Jane was good, but I felt their dialogue could have been a little more natural.
Often, there was a lot of backstory before action was introduced. That was sometimes difficult to wade through, as it slowed down the action for the characters. I enjoyed the overall feel of this book, but there were quite a few moments that gave me pause. For instance, when Lily’s mother receives the message on her answering machine, the reader is simply told what happens. I feel it would have been more powerful if the reader could seen the mother’s horror and her reaction through an action-oriented scene. There were several scenes like this where I felt more action and more dialogue would have cemented a connection with the reader.
When action drove the story, things picked up and I was pleased to become immersed in the suspense. This story depends heavily on its chilling premise with villains that make your blood run cold. That kept me turning pages until the end. I found a few editing flaws, but nothing that had me bothered.
Overall, I enjoyed this story enough to be interested in another Stan Brookshire offering, simply because I would like to get to know him better. Since I can’t give half-stars, and three stars doesn’t accurately convey how I feel, I’m going with four. A solid read from an author with great potential.
Merged review:
I was initially drawn to this story by the premise. I love a good, solid thriller. Sacrifice of Innocence delivers on this front.
Ms. Cosgrove has created a character in Stan Brookshire that has the potential to rival that of Connelly’s Harry Bosch. But, I wanted more from him. He is a character that is likeable and relatable, which is why I expected more. He came across to me with all the hallmarks of a suspense novel detective, but I was struggling to find what would make him stand out. I liked, but I didn’t feel that I knew him. However, this may be intentional on the part of Ms. Cosgrove in order for the reader to see where Brookshire grows. I would keep reading to find out. The interaction between Stan and his partner Jane was good, but I felt their dialogue could have been a little more natural.
Often, there was a lot of backstory before action was introduced. That was sometimes difficult to wade through, as it slowed down the action for the characters. I enjoyed the overall feel of this book, but there were quite a few moments that gave me pause. For instance, when Lily’s mother receives the message on her answering machine, the reader is simply told what happens. I feel it would have been more powerful if the reader could seen the mother’s horror and her reaction through an action-oriented scene. There were several scenes like this where I felt more action and more dialogue would have cemented a connection with the reader.
When action drove the story, things picked up and I was pleased to become immersed in the suspense. This story depends heavily on its chilling premise with villains that make your blood run cold. That kept me turning pages until the end. I found a few editing flaws, but nothing that had me bothered.
Overall, I enjoyed this story enough to be interested in another Stan Brookshire offering, simply because I would like to get to know him better. Since I can’t give half-stars, and three stars doesn’t accurately convey how I feel, I’m going with four. A solid read from an author with great potential.
Ms. Cosgrove has created a character in Stan Brookshire that has the potential to rival that of Connelly’s Harry Bosch. But, I wanted more from him. He is a character that is likeable and relatable, which is why I expected more. He came across to me with all the hallmarks of a suspense novel detective, but I was struggling to find what would make him stand out. I liked, but I didn’t feel that I knew him. However, this may be intentional on the part of Ms. Cosgrove in order for the reader to see where Brookshire grows. I would keep reading to find out. The interaction between Stan and his partner Jane was good, but I felt their dialogue could have been a little more natural.
Often, there was a lot of backstory before action was introduced. That was sometimes difficult to wade through, as it slowed down the action for the characters. I enjoyed the overall feel of this book, but there were quite a few moments that gave me pause. For instance, when Lily’s mother receives the message on her answering machine, the reader is simply told what happens. I feel it would have been more powerful if the reader could seen the mother’s horror and her reaction through an action-oriented scene. There were several scenes like this where I felt more action and more dialogue would have cemented a connection with the reader.
When action drove the story, things picked up and I was pleased to become immersed in the suspense. This story depends heavily on its chilling premise with villains that make your blood run cold. That kept me turning pages until the end. I found a few editing flaws, but nothing that had me bothered.
Overall, I enjoyed this story enough to be interested in another Stan Brookshire offering, simply because I would like to get to know him better. Since I can’t give half-stars, and three stars doesn’t accurately convey how I feel, I’m going with four. A solid read from an author with great potential.
Merged review:
I was initially drawn to this story by the premise. I love a good, solid thriller. Sacrifice of Innocence delivers on this front.
Ms. Cosgrove has created a character in Stan Brookshire that has the potential to rival that of Connelly’s Harry Bosch. But, I wanted more from him. He is a character that is likeable and relatable, which is why I expected more. He came across to me with all the hallmarks of a suspense novel detective, but I was struggling to find what would make him stand out. I liked, but I didn’t feel that I knew him. However, this may be intentional on the part of Ms. Cosgrove in order for the reader to see where Brookshire grows. I would keep reading to find out. The interaction between Stan and his partner Jane was good, but I felt their dialogue could have been a little more natural.
Often, there was a lot of backstory before action was introduced. That was sometimes difficult to wade through, as it slowed down the action for the characters. I enjoyed the overall feel of this book, but there were quite a few moments that gave me pause. For instance, when Lily’s mother receives the message on her answering machine, the reader is simply told what happens. I feel it would have been more powerful if the reader could seen the mother’s horror and her reaction through an action-oriented scene. There were several scenes like this where I felt more action and more dialogue would have cemented a connection with the reader.
When action drove the story, things picked up and I was pleased to become immersed in the suspense. This story depends heavily on its chilling premise with villains that make your blood run cold. That kept me turning pages until the end. I found a few editing flaws, but nothing that had me bothered.
Overall, I enjoyed this story enough to be interested in another Stan Brookshire offering, simply because I would like to get to know him better. Since I can’t give half-stars, and three stars doesn’t accurately convey how I feel, I’m going with four. A solid read from an author with great potential.
November 24, 2012
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Warning: There are spoilers and hints of spoilers in this review.
Stan is a hard-working detective who is trying to rebuild his status after trouble with alcohol. His partner has a reputation as well, but they work well as a team—and their relationship was truly one of the most enjoyable parts of the story. It felt like a real partnership and there wasn’t a romantic undertone like many authors would have taken.
The plot of the story centers on a series of child abductions and murders that have finally been linked together. At the start of the story, the police believe they have the right man in custody but another kidnapping casts that into doubt. The trial is not going well, and despite the hope that the child was abducted by a copycat, Stan begins to believe that something more is happening. The mother of the child gets involved, and slowly the protagonists realize that this is not a standard kidnapping.
The good parts of this story are very good: Stan is an interesting protagonist and a fun character to follow around the story. The mother of the kidnapped girl is a very strong female character, not something you see in stories now—at least not really. She feels very real—perhaps even more than Stan. The backstory with the child’s father also plays out very well, and I like that the situation between mother and father isn’t completely settled. There’s a sense that things will have to be worked on between them, but there is hope.
The weakest part of the story is the villains. They make foolish mistakes which helps the protagonists, particularly Stan. The personal attacks on his nature only serve to make him sure that something is wrong. At one point, the leader of the villains seems to have magical powers which she wields over a minion, only those never show up in the final fight, when they would help her group the most. I recognize that these could have been a fabrication of the minion’s mind, but I would have liked to know that for certain. But the biggest issue I had was that there was no revelation regarding why the villains were the way they were. If you don’t want HUGE spoilers, don’t read any further in this paragraph… are you gone? Okay, good: the villains follow a deity of a Mesoamerican faith but they are not Mesoamerican in heritage. How you end up with modern Caucasians following a Native American god would make a fascinating story, particularly given the heights of power some of the villains reach. It is clearly a secret society, but it’d be really interesting to learn how it came to be and how it gained the power it has.
Overall, I still enjoyed Sacrifice of Innocence. The characters, the heroes especially, are particularly well-written and very engaging. The plot and strong characters carried the story, earning it three stars.
Warning: There are spoilers and hints of spoilers in this review.
Stan is a hard-working detective who is trying to rebuild his status after trouble with alcohol. His partner has a reputation as well, but they work well as a team—and their relationship was truly one of the most enjoyable parts of the story. It felt like a real partnership and there wasn’t a romantic undertone like many authors would have taken.
The plot of the story centers on a series of child abductions and murders that have finally been linked together. At the start of the story, the police believe they have the right man in custody but another kidnapping casts that into doubt. The trial is not going well, and despite the hope that the child was abducted by a copycat, Stan begins to believe that something more is happening. The mother of the child gets involved, and slowly the protagonists realize that this is not a standard kidnapping.
The good parts of this story are very good: Stan is an interesting protagonist and a fun character to follow around the story. The mother of the kidnapped girl is a very strong female character, not something you see in stories now—at least not really. She feels very real—perhaps even more than Stan. The backstory with the child’s father also plays out very well, and I like that the situation between mother and father isn’t completely settled. There’s a sense that things will have to be worked on between them, but there is hope.
The weakest part of the story is the villains. They make foolish mistakes which helps the protagonists, particularly Stan. The personal attacks on his nature only serve to make him sure that something is wrong. At one point, the leader of the villains seems to have magical powers which she wields over a minion, only those never show up in the final fight, when they would help her group the most. I recognize that these could have been a fabrication of the minion’s mind, but I would have liked to know that for certain. But the biggest issue I had was that there was no revelation regarding why the villains were the way they were. If you don’t want HUGE spoilers, don’t read any further in this paragraph… are you gone? Okay, good: the villains follow a deity of a Mesoamerican faith but they are not Mesoamerican in heritage. How you end up with modern Caucasians following a Native American god would make a fascinating story, particularly given the heights of power some of the villains reach. It is clearly a secret society, but it’d be really interesting to learn how it came to be and how it gained the power it has.
Overall, I still enjoyed Sacrifice of Innocence. The characters, the heroes especially, are particularly well-written and very engaging. The plot and strong characters carried the story, earning it three stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2016
SNSBAH Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lillian's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~~
How do you clear your name when you are wanted by the very people that you work along side everyday? Stan & Jane are two cops that work homicide and they are trying to find answers to the killings that have taken place recently. They all involve children and in most cases they weren't even looked for.
Stan knows that there is something more to these killings but as him & Jane get closer the enemy makes sure to get rid of them.
Stan is wanted for attacking Jane which he didn't do and he needs to find out who is behind it and why they don't want the latest kidnapped child found?
The more Stan digs the more he figures out and the truth is more disturbing than anyone thought. Can he find the young child, Lily with the help of her parents or will it be too late? Who can he trust and who will put themselves out there for him?
I love Stan as he is one smart one that follows his gut and yes he has made mistake but he has turned his life around. And I love how he put Jane & her family first and even then they helped. Lily is a strong child that never gave up hope and her parents for all their faults never gave up the belief that she was alive.
Can't want to read the others as Stan & Jane will surely be up to solving other cases. What I loved most about this book is that Stan just an average man that has problems and that made him more likable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2015
This is now the second time I've read this book and I have to admit that I am impressed by this authors first book. Detective Stan Brookshire is not your typical hero. He's not a gorgeous specimen of a man, he's not tall, dark, nor handsome. He is the complete opposite. He's best described as average. Average height... average looks.... if anything, he is best describe as portly. He has been broken and managed to pick up those pieces and mend himself back together, even if at times it looks like it was done with duct tape and lots of wishes. A recovering alcoholic, everything he does is under a microscope and he is everyone's fall guy in a crisis. So when the proverbial sh@t hits the fan, he's the first accused of not doing his job properly.
With 4 children murdered and raped and a suspect in custody, the last thing LCPD needs to hear is that there has been another child kidnapping. Now, tossed from the task force, accused of attempted murder and on the run Stan must clear his name, bust up an apparent cult in his very own city and save a little girl before she becomes their next sacrifice. While others may find this job daunting, for Detective Stan Brookshire this is all in a day's work.
Possibly because of all his flaws, I found Stan to be the perfect hero and I can't to read his next case.
With 4 children murdered and raped and a suspect in custody, the last thing LCPD needs to hear is that there has been another child kidnapping. Now, tossed from the task force, accused of attempted murder and on the run Stan must clear his name, bust up an apparent cult in his very own city and save a little girl before she becomes their next sacrifice. While others may find this job daunting, for Detective Stan Brookshire this is all in a day's work.
Possibly because of all his flaws, I found Stan to be the perfect hero and I can't to read his next case.
March 21, 2015
Edge of your seat thriller that leaves you craving more. I literally read this 260 pages or so in a couple hours... I did not put it down once.. not even to eat lunch. What do you get when you cross sarcastic banter of police detectives with a modern Aztec cult sacrificing children? Police cover-ups which are believable, missing kids, determined parents.. and one heck of a story! Five child murders occur and no one really cared because the kids were nobodies.. all except one that was the daughter of some business big shot. When it is determined they are tracking a serial killer, the police and reporters cheer at the news of an arrest. Their elation is short lived as more information comes out and more kids are abducted.
Kudos to Ms. Cosgrove for a beautifully crafted work of art. The ending had me slightly surprised as I expect something a little more devious, but I didn't write the book.
Will the Detectives be able to save the next child? Is the man they have in custody acting alone, or part of some strange religious cult? Is YOUR child next on the abduction list? Find the answers these questions by clicking "buy this item" today.
Kudos to Ms. Cosgrove for a beautifully crafted work of art. The ending had me slightly surprised as I expect something a little more devious, but I didn't write the book.
Will the Detectives be able to save the next child? Is the man they have in custody acting alone, or part of some strange religious cult? Is YOUR child next on the abduction list? Find the answers these questions by clicking "buy this item" today.
July 27, 2016
I received a free copy of this book direct from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Sacrifice of Innocence follows Detective Stan Brookshire as he investigates the cold case murders of several children and the recent disappearance of yet another child. As he digs deeper into the case he finds that you can’t run from your own past and that the most terrifying of monsters can live right under your own nose.
What I liked: the characters were likeable, a little forced at times, but the reader can feel how much Stan and his partner care about their jobs, the victims and each other.
The storyline itself was easy to follow and flowed well. The ending was a wee bit rushed and there were a few inconsistencies that nagged at me but overall, it was a good story.
What I didn’t like: The editing in this book had some serious issues. I contacted the author and she informed me that this book and Dragon Twins, the second Stan Brookshire novel are currently being reedited. Hopefully the revised editions will be put up soon.
Sacrifice of Innocence follows Detective Stan Brookshire as he investigates the cold case murders of several children and the recent disappearance of yet another child. As he digs deeper into the case he finds that you can’t run from your own past and that the most terrifying of monsters can live right under your own nose.
What I liked: the characters were likeable, a little forced at times, but the reader can feel how much Stan and his partner care about their jobs, the victims and each other.
The storyline itself was easy to follow and flowed well. The ending was a wee bit rushed and there were a few inconsistencies that nagged at me but overall, it was a good story.
What I didn’t like: The editing in this book had some serious issues. I contacted the author and she informed me that this book and Dragon Twins, the second Stan Brookshire novel are currently being reedited. Hopefully the revised editions will be put up soon.
January 18, 2018
Editing/Proofing:
Seems professional, no distractions.
Formating:
Absolutely gorgeous, now that E-Book Builders has re-done it!
Overall:
Couldn't put this down; read in a couple sessions. What I love about this novel is it's a mystery but not your typical mystery, as it isn't like all the other books in this genre. The good guy is a good but he's up against corrupt cops, his own bad reputation (former drunk), a child-snatching cult... we also get to read from the point of view of the good guys, the bad guys and even both primary and secondary victims. The action really doesn't stop but it still manages to fit in plenty of getting to know each player and their backstory while providing small peeks into the mastermind behind the crime(s).
Already hooked on this series, and it reminds me of some of the big-name authors’ crime series like Kay Scarpetta, Kinsey Milhone, etc. One of the greats.
Seems professional, no distractions.
Formating:
Absolutely gorgeous, now that E-Book Builders has re-done it!
Overall:
Couldn't put this down; read in a couple sessions. What I love about this novel is it's a mystery but not your typical mystery, as it isn't like all the other books in this genre. The good guy is a good but he's up against corrupt cops, his own bad reputation (former drunk), a child-snatching cult... we also get to read from the point of view of the good guys, the bad guys and even both primary and secondary victims. The action really doesn't stop but it still manages to fit in plenty of getting to know each player and their backstory while providing small peeks into the mastermind behind the crime(s).
Already hooked on this series, and it reminds me of some of the big-name authors’ crime series like Kay Scarpetta, Kinsey Milhone, etc. One of the greats.
June 14, 2016
The Sacrifice of Innocence is a good old fashioned murder mystery and I loved it.
When I started reading I nearly consumed it one seating, the story drew me in straight away.
Stan Brookshire has managed to link cases of child abduction and murder together, and a serial killer is responsible.
After the death of his partner , he turned to drink and his wife left him. He was a broken man until partnered with Jane Trinity, with help of Jane and her family he cleaned his act up.
After the arrest of a suspect things start to go wrong, especially when another child is abducted.
I don't want to give too much away, things move at a fast pace with a traitor working against Jane and Stan. He has no choice but to work on his own.
I will say I followed the bread crumbs and guessed who the traitor was. I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I as I'm looking forward to Stan Brookshire number two.
When I started reading I nearly consumed it one seating, the story drew me in straight away.
Stan Brookshire has managed to link cases of child abduction and murder together, and a serial killer is responsible.
After the death of his partner , he turned to drink and his wife left him. He was a broken man until partnered with Jane Trinity, with help of Jane and her family he cleaned his act up.
After the arrest of a suspect things start to go wrong, especially when another child is abducted.
I don't want to give too much away, things move at a fast pace with a traitor working against Jane and Stan. He has no choice but to work on his own.
I will say I followed the bread crumbs and guessed who the traitor was. I thoroughly enjoyed it, as I as I'm looking forward to Stan Brookshire number two.
September 12, 2016
This was my first book by Allison Cosgrove but it won't be my last. This book grabbed my attention from the first couple of sentences. I was intrigued and had to know more. I was hooked!
Stan Brookshire has his work cut out for him in this book. Stan is a guy that I really enjoyed getting to know, I loved the interaction between him and the other characters. His loyalty and his diligence.
This is one hell of a story that had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down, I had to read one more page and before I knew it I read the all of it.
highly recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense, and a good detective story with amazing characters. Can't wait to read more of Stan's adventures.
Stan Brookshire has his work cut out for him in this book. Stan is a guy that I really enjoyed getting to know, I loved the interaction between him and the other characters. His loyalty and his diligence.
This is one hell of a story that had me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down, I had to read one more page and before I knew it I read the all of it.
highly recommend this book for anyone who likes suspense, and a good detective story with amazing characters. Can't wait to read more of Stan's adventures.
November 17, 2013
Another I've jacked in because it's full of mistakes. I did try and made it to 27% before I'd had enough. A great shame as I really liked the characters Stan and Jane.
Apostrophes were misplaced and odd spaces were added into words for no reason then a lot of stuff was repeated as well. A whole paragraph word-for-word at one point !! Then words were missing in sentences like a or of. Dry used instead of dried then "not of sure that" was one line where the words were transposed. Dependent is not spelt dependant, either. All pretty careless mistakes and there were too many for my liking.
A pity as the series sounded good.
Apostrophes were misplaced and odd spaces were added into words for no reason then a lot of stuff was repeated as well. A whole paragraph word-for-word at one point !! Then words were missing in sentences like a or of. Dry used instead of dried then "not of sure that" was one line where the words were transposed. Dependent is not spelt dependant, either. All pretty careless mistakes and there were too many for my liking.
A pity as the series sounded good.
December 11, 2014
This book was given as a gift to me from the author. What an awesome, exciting read!!! I was riveted from the very first page to the very last page. I loved how we got to see what was going on through every main characters POV. You usually don't get the POV from the victims, the family of the victims. Stan Brookshire was a wonderful character, you couldn't help but love him and keep rooting for him. I loved that the story was easy to read and did not have all the technical crime stuff that other crime books have. I highly recommend this book to all!!! Keep them coming Allison Cosgrove.
December 11, 2014
This book was given as a gift to me from the author. What an awesome, exciting read!!! I was riveted from the very first page to the very last page. I loved how we got to see what was going on through every main characters POV. You usually don't get the POV from the victims, the family of the victims. Stan Brookshire was a wonderful character, you couldn't help but love him and keep rooting for him. I loved that the story was easy to read and did not have all the technical crime stuff that other crime books have. I highly recommend this book to all!!! Keep them coming Allison Cosgrove.
November 8, 2013
How far would you go to save your job for Stan Brookshire he would do just about anything to prove he's innocent. He would risk his life to save his partners and to save a kidnapped child to prove it.
I will be telling all my friends about this book.
Book angels 12 was given a copy in return for a honest review.
I will be telling all my friends about this book.
Book angels 12 was given a copy in return for a honest review.
August 18, 2017
I love Stan and Jane!! Kevin too!! Wasn't sure what to expect. I love myself a good detective novel, and I didn't want to put this down. Love that it wasn't a typical story line, great twists and turns in the story that kept me hooked!
March 11, 2017
I loved this book. So much action and suspense it was amazing! With all the twists and turns and all the excitement I had a hard time putting it down for anything. Wonderful work by an amazing author!!!
January 2, 2017
Interesting book
I have to say this is not my normal genre and more often then not would not have read. But I told myself I would try new things. I am glad I did. The story is well put together and very intriguing. I was happily surprised with this book.
I have to say this is not my normal genre and more often then not would not have read. But I told myself I would try new things. I am glad I did. The story is well put together and very intriguing. I was happily surprised with this book.
January 14, 2016
Great start to the series. Love Stan one hell of a man he steals the show. Can't wait to read the others in the series.
February 9, 2016
loved it!!! Couldnt put it down
March 24, 2016
This is a great read. It keeps you interested. I know I wanted to know what would happen next. Stan does a great job. This book is well written. Give this book a try.
October 21, 2016
Was good. Knowing this is the first edition, hope later editions had some more copy editing--I'm going to assume this is so.
March 29, 2017
This was a different kind of story for me. I wish the pace moved a little faster, but I was intrigued by what was going on. I've never read this author before but am curious to know more. This characters in this story, while mildly flat, were mysterious enough for me to want to know what happens. Overall this wasn't a read for me, but do not regret picking it up!
August 27, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love books about cults so this was right up my street. I find it hard to believe that the police never noticed the "baddie" connecting all the cases but that aside. A great read and I cant wait to read the next installment.
I love books about cults so this was right up my street. I find it hard to believe that the police never noticed the "baddie" connecting all the cases but that aside. A great read and I cant wait to read the next installment.
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