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Strangers #3
Don't Say a Word
Death has always stalked single mother Allie Callahan. For the first time in her life, she has found a fragile sort of happiness living a quiet, peaceful existence in East Texas with her young son, Sammy, and her adoptive mother.
Still, Allie fears she may be susceptible to the same mental illness that destroyed her serial-killer mother and brother. She's haunted by the idea that she could become incapable of caring for Sammy.
When twelve-year-old twins Zoe and Carrie arrive on her doorstep late one night, their parents slain in a vicious double homicide, Allie’s strength and sanity are put to the test. What did the twins see on the night of their parents’ horrific murder? They are too frightened to say.
Soon faced with a series of menacing phone calls, a rising body count, and the pressure of keeping the girls and her own son safe, Allie fears she'll lose her mind—and her one shot at happiness—once and for all.
Still, Allie fears she may be susceptible to the same mental illness that destroyed her serial-killer mother and brother. She's haunted by the idea that she could become incapable of caring for Sammy.
When twelve-year-old twins Zoe and Carrie arrive on her doorstep late one night, their parents slain in a vicious double homicide, Allie’s strength and sanity are put to the test. What did the twins see on the night of their parents’ horrific murder? They are too frightened to say.
Soon faced with a series of menacing phone calls, a rising body count, and the pressure of keeping the girls and her own son safe, Allie fears she'll lose her mind—and her one shot at happiness—once and for all.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2016
775 people are currently reading
2249 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Jaynes
10 books1,086 followersJennifer Jaynes was an accomplished author having published 7 books and was both a USA Today Best Seller and Amazon #1 best seller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
December 2, 2016
3 stars for Don't Say a Word, # 3 in The Strangers Series by Jennifer Jaynes.
I have read all the books in the series and enjoyed the first two more than this one. I think I was hopping for a little more depth and insight as the series progresses, but it is not happening.
What we have is a fairly superficial overview of Allie Callahan's life. She is stalked by death and insanity, scared that she may be afflicted by the same mental illness suffered by her serial killer mother and brother.
Living with her adoptive mother, Bitty, and her four year old son, Sammy, she is happier and more content than she has ever been. When severely traumatised twelve year old twins arrive to be fostered by Bitty following their parent's murders Allie is at first unsettled, then loses her heart to the twins' plight.
But someone is looking for the twins. What did they see that night? Can they identify the killer? Is their presence going to put Allie and those she loves in danger?
A good read, but it didn't come across as suspenseful as the first two and I really would like to see a bit more depth to the writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing a digital ARC for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I have read all the books in the series and enjoyed the first two more than this one. I think I was hopping for a little more depth and insight as the series progresses, but it is not happening.
What we have is a fairly superficial overview of Allie Callahan's life. She is stalked by death and insanity, scared that she may be afflicted by the same mental illness suffered by her serial killer mother and brother.
Living with her adoptive mother, Bitty, and her four year old son, Sammy, she is happier and more content than she has ever been. When severely traumatised twelve year old twins arrive to be fostered by Bitty following their parent's murders Allie is at first unsettled, then loses her heart to the twins' plight.
But someone is looking for the twins. What did they see that night? Can they identify the killer? Is their presence going to put Allie and those she loves in danger?
A good read, but it didn't come across as suspenseful as the first two and I really would like to see a bit more depth to the writing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing a digital ARC for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
August 19, 2018
Talented crime writer, Jennifer Jaynes returns following Never Smile at Strangers, and Ugly Young Thing with her “best yet”- DON’T SAY A WORD, an enthralling psychological crime mystery suspense thriller, guaranteed to keep you glued to the pages from the first page, to the explosive ending- leaving you breathless!
Allie Callahan has not had an easy life. An orphan, with a horrific past and childhood—her mom and brother suffered from mental illness. In her younger years, she even attempted to end her own life, when left all alone to face the brutal world. She still has scars and fears.
At sixteen, she was given the opportunity to have a real life. A real family. A new start. She was adopted by her kind older foster mom, Bitty Callahan. She loves and respects her. A home she has always dreamed of.
Now twenty-two, Allie and her young son, Sammy and dog Piglet--- reside with Bitty, in their comfortable home in Texas. She is putting her demons behind her. However, she has to continue to put the old unhealthy voices from her biological mother aside. Bitty always taught her, “Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.”
Allie always feared losing her mind, and becoming incapable of being the type of mother her four- year-old son, Sammy deserved. Sammy was her reason for living. For everything. Allie was excited about the new chapter in her life, in terms of her career, she was following in Bitty’s footsteps as a wellness practitioner. She was drawn to the work for many reasons, but mainly because it was rewarding and flexible.
As the book opens there is a brutal murder. Two twelve-year-old twin girls (Zoe and Carrie), are left in their home alone for days with their murdered parents. They are traumatized. When the authorities arrive, the girls are sent by child protective service to reside in foster care with Bitty.
Allie was a little nervous when foster children came to stay. She always felt uneasy each time a new kid arrived; however, she could not tell Bitty. Allie admired the fact Bitty fostered kids. Bitty had given her a second chance at happiness—a chance most kids with past like hers never got. So she would help any way she could. She owed it to Bitty.
The twins are NOT ordinary. They were coming from the rich Sherman Landing area nearby. Even though the girls had lived in a poor white trash trailer park, their deceased dad had recently won $1.2 million dollars. From drugs and abuse from mom, and truck driver dad, on the road the majority of the time.
When the caseworker brought the girls to stay with the Callahan's, they soon learned the girls are very disturbed. Carrie would not speak and very withdrawn. Zoe tended to be more outspoken, and even manipulative, at times. Could she trust them to be around her son? Zoe-dissociative amnesia. Carrie selective mutism.
Due to their trauma, the caseworker mentioned in addition to their parent’s murder, the younger brother was hit by a truck and killed three years earlier and the girls witnessed the tragic event. The grandmother wants nothing to do with them. Total dysfunction.
From detectives, forensic therapist, Child Advocacy, and caseworkers-- everyone was involved in the case. Allie knew all too well, people never healed from the horror of murder. Not completely. Allie always helped Bitty with the foster children—she was never emotionally invested. This time she becomes involved.
As the investigation continues, Gary, the mom’s boyfriend shows up, putting them all in danger. Allie’s former boyfriend, Johnny (Sammy’s dad) shows up without any notice, and she is ready to put him out of her life. Their personal lives and home become insanity. A check was written for seven hundred thousand the day before the murders,
Prone to depression and anxiety attacks, Allie had learned to control her thoughts before they spiraled out of control. However, since the twins came to live with them, nothing is normal. Strange phone calls, cars, hang-ups, and weird behavior with both girls. Another murder. Since she laid eyes on these girls, the whole safe world that had taken her years to build felt as flimsy as a house of cards.
There is tension between the twins, and something is not right. Carrie was more self-conscious (Allie can relate to her if she will let her in). Carrie has been cutting herself and is slowly slipping away. Zoe tends to want to bond with Allie; more confident--her personality goes from good to bad.
Allie wants to trust the girls around her son Sammy, however, she is overprotective. Is she putting him in danger around the girls? From blood-curdling shrieks, screams--the girls needed her help—she could not deny them; she can sympathize—she has been there; however, is she putting her life and her son’s in harm’s way?
Who really murdered the twin's parents?
Wow, this is one intense saga---secrets and lies. Flashing back and forth we hear from the time prior to the murders. Slowly the author cleverly peels back the layers of the events leading up to the murders. Nothing is as it appears.
Chilling, dark, gripping, shocking, and un-put-downable! When I looked up from the book for the first time 50% through the book. From 50%-75%, the intensity is mind-blowing. From 75% to the ending, fast-paced action--twists and turns you do not see coming! You are totally invested in the characters—Damaged with a Capital “D”. Forget about sleeping.
With Allie’s delicate complex and tortured past, co-mingled with the twins domestic current and past mental situation, strongly emphasizing the psychology of its characters and their unstable emotional states. Obsessive, pathological, moral conflicts, fear, and anxiety are strong drivers. No one can write EVIL better than Jennifer.
I enjoyed hearing from Sammy's perspective; a four-year-old’s view (priceless), as well as Zoe, Carrie, and Allie. (Since the author is a mother of younger twins, she shines here). Sammy is full of wonder and curiosity- very observant. You will love him and want to give him a big hug. He likes to spy on others. He is innocent and he thinks it is fun. A cautionary tale for mothers--you never know what secrets your child may be keeping. A strong mother’s love. Sammy is her priority.
You will love Bitty, and readers root for Allie, to the end--and sympathize with her situation. Hoping Allie will find some happiness in the next book with a possible new budding romance with the sexy Detective. (Knowing Jaynes, it will not be a smooth road). Can't wait.
If you are looking for a scary crime thriller that sends chills down your spine, leaving you on the edge of your seat until the very end---this one is for you.
A mix of Gothic, domestic, crime, psychological, detective, action, drama, horror, suspense, mystery, and thriller. The author rocks! Integrating personal character elements into mystery and suspense, toeing the line between a dramatic character study and a plot structure you'd expect from a strong psycho-crime horror thriller movie. (would make for a great Prime series).
For fans of Mark Edwards, Kathryn Croft, Lisa Unger, and Jennifer Hillier.
Recommend reading Jennifer’s first two books above, while awaiting the release date of her third installment. Even though Don’t Say A Word, may be read as a standalone -the author does an outstanding job of getting you up to speed; however, in order to really get a good grasp of the main protagonist, you will want to read the previous books----All three are top quality!
The author just keeps getting better (if this is possible). Thanks, Jennifer, all your efforts have not gone unnoticed. A winner!
A special thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
JDCMustReadBooks
Allie Callahan has not had an easy life. An orphan, with a horrific past and childhood—her mom and brother suffered from mental illness. In her younger years, she even attempted to end her own life, when left all alone to face the brutal world. She still has scars and fears.
At sixteen, she was given the opportunity to have a real life. A real family. A new start. She was adopted by her kind older foster mom, Bitty Callahan. She loves and respects her. A home she has always dreamed of.
Now twenty-two, Allie and her young son, Sammy and dog Piglet--- reside with Bitty, in their comfortable home in Texas. She is putting her demons behind her. However, she has to continue to put the old unhealthy voices from her biological mother aside. Bitty always taught her, “Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.”
Allie always feared losing her mind, and becoming incapable of being the type of mother her four- year-old son, Sammy deserved. Sammy was her reason for living. For everything. Allie was excited about the new chapter in her life, in terms of her career, she was following in Bitty’s footsteps as a wellness practitioner. She was drawn to the work for many reasons, but mainly because it was rewarding and flexible.
As the book opens there is a brutal murder. Two twelve-year-old twin girls (Zoe and Carrie), are left in their home alone for days with their murdered parents. They are traumatized. When the authorities arrive, the girls are sent by child protective service to reside in foster care with Bitty.
Allie was a little nervous when foster children came to stay. She always felt uneasy each time a new kid arrived; however, she could not tell Bitty. Allie admired the fact Bitty fostered kids. Bitty had given her a second chance at happiness—a chance most kids with past like hers never got. So she would help any way she could. She owed it to Bitty.
The twins are NOT ordinary. They were coming from the rich Sherman Landing area nearby. Even though the girls had lived in a poor white trash trailer park, their deceased dad had recently won $1.2 million dollars. From drugs and abuse from mom, and truck driver dad, on the road the majority of the time.
When the caseworker brought the girls to stay with the Callahan's, they soon learned the girls are very disturbed. Carrie would not speak and very withdrawn. Zoe tended to be more outspoken, and even manipulative, at times. Could she trust them to be around her son? Zoe-dissociative amnesia. Carrie selective mutism.
Due to their trauma, the caseworker mentioned in addition to their parent’s murder, the younger brother was hit by a truck and killed three years earlier and the girls witnessed the tragic event. The grandmother wants nothing to do with them. Total dysfunction.
From detectives, forensic therapist, Child Advocacy, and caseworkers-- everyone was involved in the case. Allie knew all too well, people never healed from the horror of murder. Not completely. Allie always helped Bitty with the foster children—she was never emotionally invested. This time she becomes involved.
As the investigation continues, Gary, the mom’s boyfriend shows up, putting them all in danger. Allie’s former boyfriend, Johnny (Sammy’s dad) shows up without any notice, and she is ready to put him out of her life. Their personal lives and home become insanity. A check was written for seven hundred thousand the day before the murders,
Prone to depression and anxiety attacks, Allie had learned to control her thoughts before they spiraled out of control. However, since the twins came to live with them, nothing is normal. Strange phone calls, cars, hang-ups, and weird behavior with both girls. Another murder. Since she laid eyes on these girls, the whole safe world that had taken her years to build felt as flimsy as a house of cards.
There is tension between the twins, and something is not right. Carrie was more self-conscious (Allie can relate to her if she will let her in). Carrie has been cutting herself and is slowly slipping away. Zoe tends to want to bond with Allie; more confident--her personality goes from good to bad.
Allie wants to trust the girls around her son Sammy, however, she is overprotective. Is she putting him in danger around the girls? From blood-curdling shrieks, screams--the girls needed her help—she could not deny them; she can sympathize—she has been there; however, is she putting her life and her son’s in harm’s way?
Who really murdered the twin's parents?
Wow, this is one intense saga---secrets and lies. Flashing back and forth we hear from the time prior to the murders. Slowly the author cleverly peels back the layers of the events leading up to the murders. Nothing is as it appears.
Chilling, dark, gripping, shocking, and un-put-downable! When I looked up from the book for the first time 50% through the book. From 50%-75%, the intensity is mind-blowing. From 75% to the ending, fast-paced action--twists and turns you do not see coming! You are totally invested in the characters—Damaged with a Capital “D”. Forget about sleeping.
With Allie’s delicate complex and tortured past, co-mingled with the twins domestic current and past mental situation, strongly emphasizing the psychology of its characters and their unstable emotional states. Obsessive, pathological, moral conflicts, fear, and anxiety are strong drivers. No one can write EVIL better than Jennifer.
I enjoyed hearing from Sammy's perspective; a four-year-old’s view (priceless), as well as Zoe, Carrie, and Allie. (Since the author is a mother of younger twins, she shines here). Sammy is full of wonder and curiosity- very observant. You will love him and want to give him a big hug. He likes to spy on others. He is innocent and he thinks it is fun. A cautionary tale for mothers--you never know what secrets your child may be keeping. A strong mother’s love. Sammy is her priority.
You will love Bitty, and readers root for Allie, to the end--and sympathize with her situation. Hoping Allie will find some happiness in the next book with a possible new budding romance with the sexy Detective. (Knowing Jaynes, it will not be a smooth road). Can't wait.
If you are looking for a scary crime thriller that sends chills down your spine, leaving you on the edge of your seat until the very end---this one is for you.
A mix of Gothic, domestic, crime, psychological, detective, action, drama, horror, suspense, mystery, and thriller. The author rocks! Integrating personal character elements into mystery and suspense, toeing the line between a dramatic character study and a plot structure you'd expect from a strong psycho-crime horror thriller movie. (would make for a great Prime series).
For fans of Mark Edwards, Kathryn Croft, Lisa Unger, and Jennifer Hillier.
Recommend reading Jennifer’s first two books above, while awaiting the release date of her third installment. Even though Don’t Say A Word, may be read as a standalone -the author does an outstanding job of getting you up to speed; however, in order to really get a good grasp of the main protagonist, you will want to read the previous books----All three are top quality!
The author just keeps getting better (if this is possible). Thanks, Jennifer, all your efforts have not gone unnoticed. A winner!
A special thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
JDCMustReadBooks
October 29, 2016
Jennifer Jaynes you have excelled yourself! This is by far, in my opinion her best book yet. Whether you read this as a stand alone or as part of the series it's a fantastic read.
I love a book that is just easy to absorb, doesn't require too much mental acrobatics and quite simply has you enjoying the reading experience. This was one of those reads for me.
I enjoyed the entire story, the plot has some clever twists and turns and I'm pretty sure not many will predict the white surprising ending that the book delivers. I liked all the characters in the book, some of them really jumped into my heart and stayed there and I think Jennifer has done a top job with her characters in this novel.
I would classify this as a mystery thriller and out of all of Jennifer's books this one had me the most engaged and eager to flick the pages to see what was next. This is a book that would appeal to a broad range of readers.
My actual rating is 4.5 but I've bumped it to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon. I'm loving watching Jennifer grow and get better and better with her writing and am keen to see what next comes from her pen! (Laptop?)
I wanted to mention that I was a beta reader on this book and the final version is excellent. I admire all authors who listen to their readers and are keen to give the best outcome possible. Honestly, the final result really impressed me!
Keep on writing Jennifer!
I love a book that is just easy to absorb, doesn't require too much mental acrobatics and quite simply has you enjoying the reading experience. This was one of those reads for me.
I enjoyed the entire story, the plot has some clever twists and turns and I'm pretty sure not many will predict the white surprising ending that the book delivers. I liked all the characters in the book, some of them really jumped into my heart and stayed there and I think Jennifer has done a top job with her characters in this novel.
I would classify this as a mystery thriller and out of all of Jennifer's books this one had me the most engaged and eager to flick the pages to see what was next. This is a book that would appeal to a broad range of readers.
My actual rating is 4.5 but I've bumped it to 5 stars for Goodreads and Amazon. I'm loving watching Jennifer grow and get better and better with her writing and am keen to see what next comes from her pen! (Laptop?)
I wanted to mention that I was a beta reader on this book and the final version is excellent. I admire all authors who listen to their readers and are keen to give the best outcome possible. Honestly, the final result really impressed me!
Keep on writing Jennifer!
June 28, 2016
4★
Starts off with a bang – a couple of them, obviously, as we find twin 12-year-old girls cowering in their bedroom, avoiding the scene where their parents lie, shot dead.
Zoe ventures to the kitchen from time to time to scrounge whatever food is left, while Carrie is nearly catatonic.
The family had won over a million dollars in a lottery and just moved to a nice part of town. To top it off, mother has a druggie boyfriend, and rumour says she gave him most of it. The twins hate mother but adore Dad, a truckie who’s away from home as much as possible after the accidental death of their little boy. Misery all round.
After a few days, social services places the girls with nearby Bitty, the foster carer and now adoptive mother of our old friend Allie, the terrified young heroine of Never Smile at Strangers and Ugly Young Thing, books 1 and 2 of the series. Allie is now 22 and has a little boy of her own, Sammy.
These books are all stand-alones, with just enough reference to the earlier ones for you to understand how fragile Allie’s mental state is, but not so much that it will spoil the enjoyment of the first two if you read them later. Jaynes handles that really well, I think.
The twins are very different from each other, in looks, manner, and attitude. Zoe is out-going and sometimes rough and sneaky, while Carrie is mute, withdrawn, and sickly. Zoe tries to ingratiate herself with Allie by looking after Sammy.
Allie is a nervous wreck. The murders remind her too much of her past, and the little girls remind her too much of herself in her disturbed youth.
Bitty is the philosopher of the bunch – the one who wakes to Carrie’s night terrors, the one who holds it all together, and the one Allie wants to model herself on. At one point, after feeling she’s forgiven someone, Allie thinks:
“As Bitty always said, not forgiving was like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. She forgave, but she would never forget.”
And later:
“She remembered Bitty’s wise words: Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.”
Allie’s picked a good role model, but she’s got a long way to go. And living with a woman who is a foster carer for all kinds of stray kids certainly puts Allie right in the path of potential trouble . . . and new plots for Ms Jaynes!
Thanks to Booklover Catlady Publicity and the author for my advanced review copy, from which I’ve quoted.
Starts off with a bang – a couple of them, obviously, as we find twin 12-year-old girls cowering in their bedroom, avoiding the scene where their parents lie, shot dead.
Zoe ventures to the kitchen from time to time to scrounge whatever food is left, while Carrie is nearly catatonic.
The family had won over a million dollars in a lottery and just moved to a nice part of town. To top it off, mother has a druggie boyfriend, and rumour says she gave him most of it. The twins hate mother but adore Dad, a truckie who’s away from home as much as possible after the accidental death of their little boy. Misery all round.
After a few days, social services places the girls with nearby Bitty, the foster carer and now adoptive mother of our old friend Allie, the terrified young heroine of Never Smile at Strangers and Ugly Young Thing, books 1 and 2 of the series. Allie is now 22 and has a little boy of her own, Sammy.
These books are all stand-alones, with just enough reference to the earlier ones for you to understand how fragile Allie’s mental state is, but not so much that it will spoil the enjoyment of the first two if you read them later. Jaynes handles that really well, I think.
The twins are very different from each other, in looks, manner, and attitude. Zoe is out-going and sometimes rough and sneaky, while Carrie is mute, withdrawn, and sickly. Zoe tries to ingratiate herself with Allie by looking after Sammy.
Allie is a nervous wreck. The murders remind her too much of her past, and the little girls remind her too much of herself in her disturbed youth.
Bitty is the philosopher of the bunch – the one who wakes to Carrie’s night terrors, the one who holds it all together, and the one Allie wants to model herself on. At one point, after feeling she’s forgiven someone, Allie thinks:
“As Bitty always said, not forgiving was like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. She forgave, but she would never forget.”
And later:
“She remembered Bitty’s wise words: Fear makes the wolf bigger than he is.”
Allie’s picked a good role model, but she’s got a long way to go. And living with a woman who is a foster carer for all kinds of stray kids certainly puts Allie right in the path of potential trouble . . . and new plots for Ms Jaynes!
Thanks to Booklover Catlady Publicity and the author for my advanced review copy, from which I’ve quoted.
May 8, 2016
This is the third book in the series, I think its quite safe to say you can read them as a standalone, but, I would start from book 1, simply because, Jennifer Jaynes is a remarkable talented author. In my humble opinion, and I can only say this as someone who reads a lot of books, her talent is bar far the most natural talent as an author. It just breathes life into each character she creates.
The bit about what the book is about and the reviews you will read will take you to a place where you will find out what the book entails, so I am not saying much about the story due to anymore give aways that may spoil it for others.
Cast: Allie Callahan who has a son named Sammy Allie has to suffer a knowledge of the past of her family that she feels might be haunting her. At the moment, her mind is at peace with the aide of antidepressants.
There is also her adoptive Mother.
Both living quietly in East Texas.
Zoe & Carrie twin girls.
They come to stay with Allie, her son and her adoptive Mother through a terrible tragedy of their parents death.
But who killed their Parents?
Allie and Sammy try to help the two girls come to terms with things and give them some stability.
They are helped with the occasional visit to the Child's Protection Agency where they can talk of their fears. Emotions etc but Carrie doesn't speak. She won't speak.
Zoe on the other hand wants to fit in with the family as she's never had a Mom who loved her like Allie loves Sammy.
There are mysterious phone calls and soon the entire family are embroiled into something they didn't expect.
I have to say, toward the ending I did suspect, but it wasn't until the last couple of chapters that I had an inkling.
This story weaves so well you cannot see the joins.
Another remarkable book from this wonderful author who I will stalk to read her books no matter whether I need to travel to the ends of the earth and back.
This is what you call an AUTHOR as opposed to a writer.
Evoking tension, emotions, biting of finger nails, sleepless nights, urges to want to do nothing else but continue reading until the end.
Every reader will know what I mean.
Thank you Jennifer and Thomas & Mercer for my copies.
June 6, 2016
Allie Callahan knew a tentative happiness living with Bitty who was first her foster mother, and then, her mother. Bitty adopted Allie and after the horror of living with her own mother; her death, then her brother’s suicide; and living on the streets, Allie felt an intense gratitude and love toward Bitty. Sammy, Allie’s young son was her life – she knew she was over protective of him, and tried not to smother him, but she wanted him safe; to have the life she didn’t have growing up. When Bitty told Allie twelve year old twins, Zoe and Carrie were arriving in the dead of night after being discovered in the house with their slain parents, Allie was filled with uncertainty.
While Carrie was seemingly mute; either too traumatised by what she had seen or unable to remember, Zoe was hard, harsh and brash. But she wouldn’t talk about what had happened in their house – just kept insisting their father would pick them up when he returned from his truck run. But frightening things began to happen – threatening phone calls, bodies - an unsettled feeling coated Allie like a blanket. Was she going crazy? Was she so much like her mother that she was turning in to her? To say she was terrified was an understatement…
Don’t Say a Word by Jennifer Jaynes is an intense psychological thriller that I couldn’t put down! Book #3 in the Strangers series, the twisted tension and psychotic episodes were brilliantly done! This author has the amazing ability to transport the reader to the scene she has set – to make the reader feel the terror, the incredible fear of the unknown. For fans of the thriller genre, I highly recommend Don’t Say a Word along with the first two in the series.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
While Carrie was seemingly mute; either too traumatised by what she had seen or unable to remember, Zoe was hard, harsh and brash. But she wouldn’t talk about what had happened in their house – just kept insisting their father would pick them up when he returned from his truck run. But frightening things began to happen – threatening phone calls, bodies - an unsettled feeling coated Allie like a blanket. Was she going crazy? Was she so much like her mother that she was turning in to her? To say she was terrified was an understatement…
Don’t Say a Word by Jennifer Jaynes is an intense psychological thriller that I couldn’t put down! Book #3 in the Strangers series, the twisted tension and psychotic episodes were brilliantly done! This author has the amazing ability to transport the reader to the scene she has set – to make the reader feel the terror, the incredible fear of the unknown. For fans of the thriller genre, I highly recommend Don’t Say a Word along with the first two in the series.
With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2016
DON’T SAY A WORD, by Jennifer Jaynes is the third book in the Strangers Series, a psychological crime mystery suspense novel that just won’t let you go. Having read the first two novels; Never Smile at Strangers & Ugly Young Thing, and loving them, I jumped at the bit, when a free download of this book became available from the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity in return for a fair and honest review.
Even though this is book 3 in the "Strangers Series", it can be read as a stand-alone thriller…but I would certainly read all the books because they are all excellent.
Allie Callahan, a single mother has not had an easy life. Her mom and brother had suffered from mental illness, and Allie was always fearful that she would inherit this illness, and become incapable of caring for her son, Sammy. Now she has been able to find peace and love for her and her four-year-old son, Sammy, living with her adopted mother, Bitty Callahan, an older foster mom in Texas. Bitty had helped her turn her life around.
Then late one night, there was a phone call from the agency to the house, saying that twin sisters will be showing up with in the hour. Allie felt uneasy every time a new kid arrived for foster care, as it disrupted her normal environment. Normally Bitty only took in one child at a time…but now two 12-year-old twin sisters, Zoe and Carrie arrive on her doorstep. Their parents had been victims of a brutal double homicide.
What did the twins see on the night of their parents’ murder? They were too terrified to speak! Zoe is hardly talking, Carrie is not talking at all. Zoe mentions something about her mother's boyfriend being at the house?
“They were found a few hours ago hiding in a bedroom closet. Both of their parents were found dead in the master suite, and from the looks of it, they had been dead for some time.”
But it didn’t take long to realize that the twins would change the family dynamics in the house. The twins were disturbed and had suffered a major trauma.
Since the twins came to live with them, everything had changed. Then they started to receive strange phone calls, hang ups…and even the girls were acting odd.
Who really murdered the twin's parents? How much did the twins know? When would they talk?
“The truth will set you free.”
I loved this tense psychological crime-thriller! It had an amazing plot with love/hate characters and will appeal to a wide range of readers. Get cracking and read all three books!
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Even though this is book 3 in the "Strangers Series", it can be read as a stand-alone thriller…but I would certainly read all the books because they are all excellent.
Allie Callahan, a single mother has not had an easy life. Her mom and brother had suffered from mental illness, and Allie was always fearful that she would inherit this illness, and become incapable of caring for her son, Sammy. Now she has been able to find peace and love for her and her four-year-old son, Sammy, living with her adopted mother, Bitty Callahan, an older foster mom in Texas. Bitty had helped her turn her life around.
Then late one night, there was a phone call from the agency to the house, saying that twin sisters will be showing up with in the hour. Allie felt uneasy every time a new kid arrived for foster care, as it disrupted her normal environment. Normally Bitty only took in one child at a time…but now two 12-year-old twin sisters, Zoe and Carrie arrive on her doorstep. Their parents had been victims of a brutal double homicide.
What did the twins see on the night of their parents’ murder? They were too terrified to speak! Zoe is hardly talking, Carrie is not talking at all. Zoe mentions something about her mother's boyfriend being at the house?
“They were found a few hours ago hiding in a bedroom closet. Both of their parents were found dead in the master suite, and from the looks of it, they had been dead for some time.”
But it didn’t take long to realize that the twins would change the family dynamics in the house. The twins were disturbed and had suffered a major trauma.
Since the twins came to live with them, everything had changed. Then they started to receive strange phone calls, hang ups…and even the girls were acting odd.
Who really murdered the twin's parents? How much did the twins know? When would they talk?
“The truth will set you free.”
I loved this tense psychological crime-thriller! It had an amazing plot with love/hate characters and will appeal to a wide range of readers. Get cracking and read all three books!
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
May 3, 2016
Having read and loved the first two books in this series (Never Smile at Strangers and Ugly Young Thing) I was VERY excited to get my hands on Don't Say a Word and I'm happy to say that this book totally lived up to my expectations. Jennifer Jaynes really knows how to create a tension filled suspense thriller which keeps you on the edge of your seat!
If you haven't read the first two books WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?? No, seriously, you are better to read the first books as then you get so much more from this one having the background story of Allie Callahan. Allie is now mum to the adorable 4 year old Sammy and living a stable live full of love with her adoptive mother Miss Bitty. Bitty is still a foster carer and when twelve year old twins, Zoe and Carrie, come to stay after the brutal murder of their parents mysterious things start to happen. Who is making the anonymous phone calls? Is Allie able to keep her newfound happiness and her family safe?
I love the character of Allie and how she has developed from teenage girl living with her mentally ill mother to becoming a mum herself. Her fear that the illness that also claimed her brother will be passed on to her is always at the back of her mind. She has really grown up since having Sammy and she's getting the confidence to put herself and her son first by making difficult decisions, adult decisions. Her body dysmorphia is also being worked through and the author definitely explores this issue with a well researched knowledge and understanding of the condition. Allies reactions are absolutely spot on for a sufferer of this form of depression.
The story itself is layered up slowly with a few flashbacks to the lives the twins lead with their parents in the weekend leading up to the murders. I do love books with twin characters, it's such a special relationship that always seems to appeal to people's curiosity! And be honest, what's not to love about creepy twins??
Once again, Jennifer Jaynes brings us a dark tale full of small town secrets and lies and I enjoyed losing myself in it so much that I read it in pretty much one session. Allie is such a fabulous creation you can't help but want to mother her and wish her the happiness that she so desperately needs. Never Smile at Strangers was one of my favourite reads from last year and this series has just got better and better. More please!
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
If you haven't read the first two books WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?? No, seriously, you are better to read the first books as then you get so much more from this one having the background story of Allie Callahan. Allie is now mum to the adorable 4 year old Sammy and living a stable live full of love with her adoptive mother Miss Bitty. Bitty is still a foster carer and when twelve year old twins, Zoe and Carrie, come to stay after the brutal murder of their parents mysterious things start to happen. Who is making the anonymous phone calls? Is Allie able to keep her newfound happiness and her family safe?
I love the character of Allie and how she has developed from teenage girl living with her mentally ill mother to becoming a mum herself. Her fear that the illness that also claimed her brother will be passed on to her is always at the back of her mind. She has really grown up since having Sammy and she's getting the confidence to put herself and her son first by making difficult decisions, adult decisions. Her body dysmorphia is also being worked through and the author definitely explores this issue with a well researched knowledge and understanding of the condition. Allies reactions are absolutely spot on for a sufferer of this form of depression.
The story itself is layered up slowly with a few flashbacks to the lives the twins lead with their parents in the weekend leading up to the murders. I do love books with twin characters, it's such a special relationship that always seems to appeal to people's curiosity! And be honest, what's not to love about creepy twins??
Once again, Jennifer Jaynes brings us a dark tale full of small town secrets and lies and I enjoyed losing myself in it so much that I read it in pretty much one session. Allie is such a fabulous creation you can't help but want to mother her and wish her the happiness that she so desperately needs. Never Smile at Strangers was one of my favourite reads from last year and this series has just got better and better. More please!
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
December 16, 2018
Two twins, one dark and one light ., found alive in the house with their murdered parents. They are fostered by previous characters in a very caring and warm environment. So much happens, will the girls get through what happened ? Will the police figure it out? Sometimes the truth is as disturbing as it can get. This was a good read and I loved being with Allie, Bitty, and meeting the new characters.
This was one of my favorite Jennifer Jaynes books so far.
This was one of my favorite Jennifer Jaynes books so far.
May 6, 2016
This is a very good psychological thriller. Ally is a damaged young woman who suffers from anxiety and fears she will follow the path of her mother and brother, who were killers. She is very careful to do the things each day that keep her balanced and sane. She has a loving relationship with lots of good support from her adoptive mother; a user boyfriend, and a precious 4- year old son. You are rooting early on for her to dump the user boyfriend.
Everything changes when her adoptive mother takes in twin girls to foster, who are 12 years old, and have been living at home with abusive parents. The parents have been murdered and the girls, Zoe and Carrie, are found in the home days later. This upset to her very protective home life is very disturbing for Ally and she fears for her sanity. She befriends the girls, however, and tries to be helpful and caring. She senses something is not quite right with them; and things begin to get uncomfortable(and creepy) fast. People start turning up missing and dead.
Great mystery and thriller here. I will look forward to reading more by this author. I highly recommend it for crime, thriller, mystery fans. It was a quick read with an unpredictable ending. 4 solid stars from me. Well written and engaging.
I am most thankful to Catlady- Booklover Publicity and the author, Jennifer Jaynes for a digital copy to read in exchange for an honest review. Very gratifying.
Everything changes when her adoptive mother takes in twin girls to foster, who are 12 years old, and have been living at home with abusive parents. The parents have been murdered and the girls, Zoe and Carrie, are found in the home days later. This upset to her very protective home life is very disturbing for Ally and she fears for her sanity. She befriends the girls, however, and tries to be helpful and caring. She senses something is not quite right with them; and things begin to get uncomfortable(and creepy) fast. People start turning up missing and dead.
Great mystery and thriller here. I will look forward to reading more by this author. I highly recommend it for crime, thriller, mystery fans. It was a quick read with an unpredictable ending. 4 solid stars from me. Well written and engaging.
I am most thankful to Catlady- Booklover Publicity and the author, Jennifer Jaynes for a digital copy to read in exchange for an honest review. Very gratifying.
October 29, 2018
Don't Say a Word is another great book in the Strangers series. I found myself becoming more and more interested in this story as it progressed, and more and more intrigued by the characters.
This worked well as an audiobook. I borrowed this through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
This worked well as an audiobook. I borrowed this through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
May 14, 2016
Duh, of course this book was incredible!
This is technically the third book in the Strangers series, but Jennifer does a fab job of filling you in so you're never confused! It's been a long time since I've read the first two, and it all came rushing back pretty quick.
This twisted tale of twin sisters is different than the first two, but just as incredible. You develop feeling towards the characters pretty quick, both good and bad.
Throughout the story you get snippets of multiple characters POV, and normally that can be overwhelming and make the book tough to read- but it was done seamlessly in 'Don't Say a Word'.
I was left with a few unanswered questions at the end, BUT they can easily be answered in the next book or a novella :)
Jennifer has to be one of my absolute favorite thriller authors, as her books ALWAYS get my heart racin', and I'm usually wrong about the 'who dunnit'. (Which is so rare for me!
Jennifer is wonderful, and this book is absolutely worth the read! Get it on your TBR, and keep your eyes out in May for the release!
This is technically the third book in the Strangers series, but Jennifer does a fab job of filling you in so you're never confused! It's been a long time since I've read the first two, and it all came rushing back pretty quick.
This twisted tale of twin sisters is different than the first two, but just as incredible. You develop feeling towards the characters pretty quick, both good and bad.
Throughout the story you get snippets of multiple characters POV, and normally that can be overwhelming and make the book tough to read- but it was done seamlessly in 'Don't Say a Word'.
I was left with a few unanswered questions at the end, BUT they can easily be answered in the next book or a novella :)
Jennifer has to be one of my absolute favorite thriller authors, as her books ALWAYS get my heart racin', and I'm usually wrong about the 'who dunnit'. (Which is so rare for me!
Jennifer is wonderful, and this book is absolutely worth the read! Get it on your TBR, and keep your eyes out in May for the release!
March 8, 2016
I received an ARC ebook from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
A-mazing — 5 shining stars.
"Don't Say a Word" is one of those rare, difficult-to-put-down novels that makes you forget everything around you.
It IS that good.
The book is the perfect combination of deep POV, intriguing plot, and a surprise ending that does not feel "out of the blue." The characters are complex without feeling forced or fake, even the four-year-old boy's POV feels very real.
"Don't Say a Word" is one of the best novels I've read in years--a must read.
A-mazing — 5 shining stars.
"Don't Say a Word" is one of those rare, difficult-to-put-down novels that makes you forget everything around you.
It IS that good.
The book is the perfect combination of deep POV, intriguing plot, and a surprise ending that does not feel "out of the blue." The characters are complex without feeling forced or fake, even the four-year-old boy's POV feels very real.
"Don't Say a Word" is one of the best novels I've read in years--a must read.
December 18, 2019
Thrilling
Allie just can’t escape mysterious murders. She is yet again in the middle of a terrible situation where the parents of twin girls have been murdered. Since bitty is a foster parent, she takes the girls in and tries to help them get over their loss. Unexpected twist and turns keep you on the edge to the end.
This is a new favorite mystery series for me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Allie just can’t escape mysterious murders. She is yet again in the middle of a terrible situation where the parents of twin girls have been murdered. Since bitty is a foster parent, she takes the girls in and tries to help them get over their loss. Unexpected twist and turns keep you on the edge to the end.
This is a new favorite mystery series for me. I look forward to reading more from this author.
May 2, 2016
This is the first times reading a book by this Author but not the last.
I was impressed with this novel I enjoyed the whole book I liked the characters and the style of the writing.
Zoe and Carrie are 12 year old twins one night something terrible happens and they are put into foster care with Bitty who also lives with Allie and her small son.
Allie has in the past had her own problems worried about mental health that runs in her family.
Carrie never spoke a word after that night not even to her twin Zoe and Zoe was unable to deal with what happened that night and blocked it out.The main suspect was the mums boyfriend in the murder case.
When the twins came to stay with Bitty strange things started to happen phone calls that they would hang up on and the girls also acting strange.
A must read full of twists.
Thank you to the Author and Booklover Catlady Publicity for a copy of this book.
I was impressed with this novel I enjoyed the whole book I liked the characters and the style of the writing.
Zoe and Carrie are 12 year old twins one night something terrible happens and they are put into foster care with Bitty who also lives with Allie and her small son.
Allie has in the past had her own problems worried about mental health that runs in her family.
Carrie never spoke a word after that night not even to her twin Zoe and Zoe was unable to deal with what happened that night and blocked it out.The main suspect was the mums boyfriend in the murder case.
When the twins came to stay with Bitty strange things started to happen phone calls that they would hang up on and the girls also acting strange.
A must read full of twists.
Thank you to the Author and Booklover Catlady Publicity for a copy of this book.
October 30, 2016
WOW!!!!
Ohhhh this book is fantastic... Jennifer Jaynes has done it again!!
The emotion and suspense kept me gripped til the end, I read it in one go.
I felt I could relate to Allie in some ways, her character is complex yet so likeable... A woman with a haunted past, struggling with depression, but so courageous!
A great book and well written!!!
Ohhhh this book is fantastic... Jennifer Jaynes has done it again!!
The emotion and suspense kept me gripped til the end, I read it in one go.
I felt I could relate to Allie in some ways, her character is complex yet so likeable... A woman with a haunted past, struggling with depression, but so courageous!
A great book and well written!!!
August 28, 2021
Scrolling through my kindle looking for something to sink my teeth into, I came across a Jennifer Jaynes book and decided to read it. I have to admit reading it did make me feel a little sad as the author died in sad circumstances a couple of years ago. This book begins with two twin sisters Zoe and Carrie wake up to blood everywhere in their home and their parents dead. The book then jumps to the girls being found and taken to a foster home where they meet Allie. Allie was raised by Bitty when her family was killed and now she lives with Bitty and her small son Sammy. During this time, Zoe and Carrie go through the stages of grief and secrets as Carrie has decided to stop talking and Zoe has started to attach herself obsessively to Allie but Sammy isn't happy about this as it's his mother, not hers. When more people end up murdered and Sammy injured, Allie realizes things aren't right with Zoe and that caring may put her in danger. If you love twisted thrillers and edgy mysteries, then you will love Jennifer Jaynes books as once you start, you won't be able to put them down and It will keep you guessing till the very last chapter.
April 12, 2016
Allie Callahan is finally feeling some happiness in her life. Adopted by Bitty Callahan, and loved by her very young son, Sammy, Allie is stronger than she's ever been. Her mother and brother were both mentally ill and were serial killers. She's determined that she will never be like them.
Bitty still takes in foster children and this night she is charged with 12-year-old twins Zoe and Carrie. They were found in their home .. their mother and father murdered in their bedroom.
What did the twins see or hear that night? Zoe is talking very little, Carrie is not talking at all. Zoe does murmur something about her mother's boyfriend being at the house.
Strange things begin happening with their arrival. Hang-up phone calls in the middle of the night - the feeling that they are being watched by someone in the woods - the appearance of their mother's boyfriend before he disappears - and more dead bodies.
Allie knows that evil has found them .... and she needs to be diligent in maintaining her sanity and keeping everyone safe.
But is she losing her mind? Or is there something else threatening her existence?
Very well written psychological thriller. Story premise is excellent. I loved all the characters - even though some were much scarier than others. The tension grows page by page and the ending is explosive. I thought I had it figured out ... but there was a giant twist that threw me in another direction.
My thanks to the author / Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Bitty still takes in foster children and this night she is charged with 12-year-old twins Zoe and Carrie. They were found in their home .. their mother and father murdered in their bedroom.
What did the twins see or hear that night? Zoe is talking very little, Carrie is not talking at all. Zoe does murmur something about her mother's boyfriend being at the house.
Strange things begin happening with their arrival. Hang-up phone calls in the middle of the night - the feeling that they are being watched by someone in the woods - the appearance of their mother's boyfriend before he disappears - and more dead bodies.
Allie knows that evil has found them .... and she needs to be diligent in maintaining her sanity and keeping everyone safe.
But is she losing her mind? Or is there something else threatening her existence?
Very well written psychological thriller. Story premise is excellent. I loved all the characters - even though some were much scarier than others. The tension grows page by page and the ending is explosive. I thought I had it figured out ... but there was a giant twist that threw me in another direction.
My thanks to the author / Booklover Catlady Publicity who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
March 29, 2016
Don't Say a Word, Strangers Series, Book 3 by Jennifer Jaynes Don't Say a Word, Strangers Series, Book 3 by Jennifer Jaynes is an intense, suspense-filled mystery. It has more ups & downs than a high speed roller coaster. It kept me entertained & guessing. I gave it five stars.
It is the third book of the Strangers Series. The first two are: Never Smile at Strangers & Ugly Young Thing. I had not read the first but the second was five-stars & intriguing. This is a stand alone book with only brief references to the prior novels that are explained by their use in context.
Bitty still fosters children & has adopted Allie. Allie now has a four year old son, Sammy. Johnny, Sammy's father is irresponsible & Allie has had enough.
Twelve year old twins are discovered in their home where their parents have been murdered & are decomposing. Zoey & Carrie are both traumatized. Carrie does not speak. They are brought to Bitty's home. Soon after, hang up phone calls start & a mysterious truck guns away from the front of the house.
Allie feels as if she is being watched.
I would like to thank Thomas & Mercer the publisher & NetGalley for the complimentary kindle copy. That did not change my opinion for this review.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Say-Word-S...
I could not leave an Amazon review yet.
It is the third book of the Strangers Series. The first two are: Never Smile at Strangers & Ugly Young Thing. I had not read the first but the second was five-stars & intriguing. This is a stand alone book with only brief references to the prior novels that are explained by their use in context.
Bitty still fosters children & has adopted Allie. Allie now has a four year old son, Sammy. Johnny, Sammy's father is irresponsible & Allie has had enough.
Twelve year old twins are discovered in their home where their parents have been murdered & are decomposing. Zoey & Carrie are both traumatized. Carrie does not speak. They are brought to Bitty's home. Soon after, hang up phone calls start & a mysterious truck guns away from the front of the house.
Allie feels as if she is being watched.
I would like to thank Thomas & Mercer the publisher & NetGalley for the complimentary kindle copy. That did not change my opinion for this review.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Say-Word-S...
I could not leave an Amazon review yet.
July 28, 2016
Excellent series. Set 6 years from the ending if the previous book (I think or around that) you see a grown up Allie living with Bittie with a range of new characters introduced. The author successfully created the image of Allie having grown up in this time and growing up even more throughout the story. I have to admit I didn't really like her as a character in the previous stories (and that severely effected my star rating), however she really becomes someone I like in this one.
Having had little, if anything to do with mental illnesses I can't say with any certainty about how accurately they are portrayed in this story. But they seem to be made to be fairly truthful from the little I know of them.
Even though this entire series is not something I'd normally read I really enjoy it. The writing style and themes have changed ever so slightly between books, but if asked how I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
Having had little, if anything to do with mental illnesses I can't say with any certainty about how accurately they are portrayed in this story. But they seem to be made to be fairly truthful from the little I know of them.
Even though this entire series is not something I'd normally read I really enjoy it. The writing style and themes have changed ever so slightly between books, but if asked how I couldn't quite put my finger on it.
November 4, 2016
Excellent read
Very good at keeping you guessing, even if you think about the real identity of the killer, you negate it, & dismiss it as an option.
Keeps you wondering until near the end & you then get the loose ends tied up.
A book with a beginning, middle & end.
Very good at keeping you guessing, even if you think about the real identity of the killer, you negate it, & dismiss it as an option.
Keeps you wondering until near the end & you then get the loose ends tied up.
A book with a beginning, middle & end.
November 7, 2016
Fantastic
Another brilliant book .Once again plot was very clever.Read the book in two days .Couldn't wait to pick it up and see what was going to happen .So glad Allie has her happy ever after too .
Another brilliant book .Once again plot was very clever.Read the book in two days .Couldn't wait to pick it up and see what was going to happen .So glad Allie has her happy ever after too .
November 11, 2016
Interesting.
An interesting read, but, not ihi best story I have read. But, I was kept in the dark until the last few pages.
An interesting read, but, not ihi best story I have read. But, I was kept in the dark until the last few pages.
March 18, 2019
The third book in the Strangers series by Jennifer Jaynes. Allie is now a single mother living in East Texas. She's living with her adoptive mother Bitty, who was her foster parent in book 2. Bitty still takes in foster kids, and she fosters two girls after their parents are murdered. Allie is a bit of a wreck, but trying to be a good mom to her young son. A suspenseful and twisty mystery.
November 4, 2016
Jennifer kindly sent me an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. Having read the first 2 books this was on my wish list so was very excited to receive it a few days early. I will try to write this without any spoilers.
Allie is a wonderful character and I was very pleased that this book builds on this making her the main character in the book. I had never heard of BDD so was very interested to learn about this condition and it made me even more aware of what damage can be done to a young mind by abusive parents be it physical or emotional abuse.
Allie has travelled a long and rocky road to reach a place where she can be who she is. She now has a young son whom she dotes on and is a reminder that an abused child can get past the abuse and live a normal life. In Allie's case Bitty (her foster mother who later adopted her) was her saviour who 'rescued' her in Book 2 and they both have a relationship to be envied.
Their peaceful life is disturbed by the arrival of foster twins. I do wonder about Jennifer's choice of names for the twins but that could just be my opinion and it didn’t detract from the story at all.
For any readers who like thrillers then Jennifer's Stranger series is a must read but I would recommend reading the books in sequence as the characters are built slowly and effectively throughout the series.
Having loved the first 2 books I had great expectations for this one and I wasn’t disappointed it is totally gripping and very hard to put down. The story has many twists and turns and had me on the edge of my seat several times and travelling down the wrong thought track many more. The author has very cleverly kept the reader travelling in the wrong direction so expect the unexpected,
I have given this book a well-deserved 5 stars but here I do have a problem because 5 stars isn't really enough for me 5 stars means 'I love it' but I more than loved it it is by far the best book I have read in a long time and I am sure it will make the best seller list and if it doesn’t I will be wondering who decides what is a best seller.
Jennifer Jaynes is a very talented author and I am sure we will be seeing her books for many years to come.
I can't wait for the next book I am hoping for more in this series but will happily read any.
Merged review:
Jennifer kindly sent me an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. Having read the first 2 books this was on my wish list so was very excited to receive it a few days early. I will try to write this without any spoilers.
Allie is a wonderful character and I was very pleased that this book builds on this making her the main character in the book. I had never heard of BDD so was very interested to learn about this condition and it made me even more aware of what damage can be done to a young mind by abusive parents be it physical or emotional abuse.
Allie has travelled a long and rocky road to reach a place where she can be who she is. She now has a young son whom she dotes on and is a reminder that an abused child can get past the abuse and live a normal life. In Allie's case Bitty (her foster mother who later adopted her) was her saviour who 'rescued' her in Book 2 and they both have a relationship to be envied.
Their peaceful life is disturbed by the arrival of foster twins. I do wonder about Jennifer's choice of names for the twins but that could just be my opinion and it didn’t detract from the story at all.
For any readers who like thrillers then Jennifer's Stranger series is a must read but I would recommend reading the books in sequence as the characters are built slowly and effectively throughout the series.
Having loved the first 2 books I had great expectations for this one and I wasn’t disappointed it is totally gripping and very hard to put down. The story has many twists and turns and had me on the edge of my seat several times and travelling down the wrong thought track many more. The author has very cleverly kept the reader travelling in the wrong direction so expect the unexpected,
I have given this book a well-deserved 5 stars but here I do have a problem because 5 stars isn't really enough for me 5 stars means 'I love it' but I more than loved it it is by far the best book I have read in a long time and I am sure it will make the best seller list and if it doesn't I will be wondering who decides what is a best seller.
Jennifer Jaynes is a very talented author and I am sure we will be seeing her books for many years to come.
I can't wait for the next book I am hoping for more in this series but will happily read any.
Allie is a wonderful character and I was very pleased that this book builds on this making her the main character in the book. I had never heard of BDD so was very interested to learn about this condition and it made me even more aware of what damage can be done to a young mind by abusive parents be it physical or emotional abuse.
Allie has travelled a long and rocky road to reach a place where she can be who she is. She now has a young son whom she dotes on and is a reminder that an abused child can get past the abuse and live a normal life. In Allie's case Bitty (her foster mother who later adopted her) was her saviour who 'rescued' her in Book 2 and they both have a relationship to be envied.
Their peaceful life is disturbed by the arrival of foster twins. I do wonder about Jennifer's choice of names for the twins but that could just be my opinion and it didn’t detract from the story at all.
For any readers who like thrillers then Jennifer's Stranger series is a must read but I would recommend reading the books in sequence as the characters are built slowly and effectively throughout the series.
Having loved the first 2 books I had great expectations for this one and I wasn’t disappointed it is totally gripping and very hard to put down. The story has many twists and turns and had me on the edge of my seat several times and travelling down the wrong thought track many more. The author has very cleverly kept the reader travelling in the wrong direction so expect the unexpected,
I have given this book a well-deserved 5 stars but here I do have a problem because 5 stars isn't really enough for me 5 stars means 'I love it' but I more than loved it it is by far the best book I have read in a long time and I am sure it will make the best seller list and if it doesn’t I will be wondering who decides what is a best seller.
Jennifer Jaynes is a very talented author and I am sure we will be seeing her books for many years to come.
I can't wait for the next book I am hoping for more in this series but will happily read any.
Merged review:
Jennifer kindly sent me an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. Having read the first 2 books this was on my wish list so was very excited to receive it a few days early. I will try to write this without any spoilers.
Allie is a wonderful character and I was very pleased that this book builds on this making her the main character in the book. I had never heard of BDD so was very interested to learn about this condition and it made me even more aware of what damage can be done to a young mind by abusive parents be it physical or emotional abuse.
Allie has travelled a long and rocky road to reach a place where she can be who she is. She now has a young son whom she dotes on and is a reminder that an abused child can get past the abuse and live a normal life. In Allie's case Bitty (her foster mother who later adopted her) was her saviour who 'rescued' her in Book 2 and they both have a relationship to be envied.
Their peaceful life is disturbed by the arrival of foster twins. I do wonder about Jennifer's choice of names for the twins but that could just be my opinion and it didn’t detract from the story at all.
For any readers who like thrillers then Jennifer's Stranger series is a must read but I would recommend reading the books in sequence as the characters are built slowly and effectively throughout the series.
Having loved the first 2 books I had great expectations for this one and I wasn’t disappointed it is totally gripping and very hard to put down. The story has many twists and turns and had me on the edge of my seat several times and travelling down the wrong thought track many more. The author has very cleverly kept the reader travelling in the wrong direction so expect the unexpected,
I have given this book a well-deserved 5 stars but here I do have a problem because 5 stars isn't really enough for me 5 stars means 'I love it' but I more than loved it it is by far the best book I have read in a long time and I am sure it will make the best seller list and if it doesn't I will be wondering who decides what is a best seller.
Jennifer Jaynes is a very talented author and I am sure we will be seeing her books for many years to come.
I can't wait for the next book I am hoping for more in this series but will happily read any.
December 25, 2018
I blame the holidays...I read this weeks ago and now can't remember my exact feelings. So yeah...short review. I read Ugly Young Thing awhile back and then reread it because this book actually sounded decent. Ugly Young Thing wasn't my thing, but this was a lot more tense. There is still something about the writing that I can't put my finger on, but the twins made this much better than the others I've read by this author. Really good twist that I didn't see entirely!
Again, short review....too much life going on!
Again, short review....too much life going on!
May 1, 2016
The next book in The Strangers series, sees Allie living with Bitty, her adoptive mother, and her son, Sammy. Johnny, Sammy's father, is gone a lot and Allie is having serious doubts about her relationship with Johnny. Despite everything she went through, Allie has each a difficulty won peace living with Bitty and Sammy. Bitty is still fostering and when she takes in a set of twelve year old twin girls Zoe and Carrie Parrish, her respite from the fear and danger all her life returns with a vengeance.
Zoe and Carrie were found in their home huddled together in a wardrobe, whilst the bodies of their parents were found in another bedroom. Carrie is not talking and Zoe seems to have no recollection of what happened the night of her parents' murder.
This thriller deals with difficult themes as Allie and Bitty both deal with the issues facing the New foster children in their care. Allies has a new found confidence and sense of responsibility, as well as a strong mother figure in Bitty.
He story of the twins, Zoe and Carrie, is terrifying and had me on the edge of my seat whilst the tale of what happened to the girls unravels. Although I have read the other books in The Strangers series, it is not necessary to have read them to enjoy this book, however, as griping as this book is, I think it lacked the edge of the first two in the series.
Zoe and Carrie were found in their home huddled together in a wardrobe, whilst the bodies of their parents were found in another bedroom. Carrie is not talking and Zoe seems to have no recollection of what happened the night of her parents' murder.
This thriller deals with difficult themes as Allie and Bitty both deal with the issues facing the New foster children in their care. Allies has a new found confidence and sense of responsibility, as well as a strong mother figure in Bitty.
He story of the twins, Zoe and Carrie, is terrifying and had me on the edge of my seat whilst the tale of what happened to the girls unravels. Although I have read the other books in The Strangers series, it is not necessary to have read them to enjoy this book, however, as griping as this book is, I think it lacked the edge of the first two in the series.
May 16, 2016
I received an ARC ebook from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I really liked this book! It definitely had a lot of twists and turns and kept me guessing. I liked the alternating viewpoints - even thought it was in third person, I still got a good sense of what each character was going through and feeling. Those twins definitely creeped me out, especially Zoe. I could not figure her out! There were a few characters I don't feel like I got to know well enough:
1. Johnny. Aside from Allie hating his guts and him appearing to be a crappy father, I didn't know that much about him. It had almost seemed as though he were trying to make more of an effort with Sammy towards the end.
2. Bitty. She seems like a wonderful person, and I would have loved to have gotten to know her just a little better.
3. Adam. By the end, I was thinking "well that escalated quickly!" I did not feel like I knew him at all besides the fact that he was a detective assigned to the case.
All that being said - I didn't read the first two books in the series! I think I will go back and read those next!
I really liked the ending as well. I like endings that tie all the pieces together and don't leave me hanging. The author did a great job of that. If you are looking for a creepy book with twists and turns, give this one a shot!
I really liked this book! It definitely had a lot of twists and turns and kept me guessing. I liked the alternating viewpoints - even thought it was in third person, I still got a good sense of what each character was going through and feeling. Those twins definitely creeped me out, especially Zoe. I could not figure her out! There were a few characters I don't feel like I got to know well enough:
1. Johnny. Aside from Allie hating his guts and him appearing to be a crappy father, I didn't know that much about him. It had almost seemed as though he were trying to make more of an effort with Sammy towards the end.
2. Bitty. She seems like a wonderful person, and I would have loved to have gotten to know her just a little better.
3. Adam. By the end, I was thinking "well that escalated quickly!" I did not feel like I knew him at all besides the fact that he was a detective assigned to the case.
All that being said - I didn't read the first two books in the series! I think I will go back and read those next!
I really liked the ending as well. I like endings that tie all the pieces together and don't leave me hanging. The author did a great job of that. If you are looking for a creepy book with twists and turns, give this one a shot!
May 3, 2016
Jennifer Jaynes third book in the Strangers series offers double the thrills in the form of traumatised 12 year old twins, Zoe and Carrie, as each of them struggle in different ways to come to terms with the slaying of their parents. Miss Bitty's home is the obvious choice for the girls to go into foster care, as she is no stranger to helping such children in the past. Allie, now 22 with a young son herself, still lives with Miss Bitty after being adopted by her, after suffering an horrendous childhood surrounded by murder and insanity. With the murderer of the girls parents still on the run tension is high!
This is a novel that absorbs you on page one, pulls you in and keeps you until you are at the very end, when you remember to breathe again. There are no lulls in the story, as it continues to build in layers, each feeding you a little more about the twins lives up to their parents murder.
There is of course the continuing thread of how Allie's life is progressing and how her own attitudes are changing, but the twins joining the family will change things forever.
I wish to thank Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a novel that absorbs you on page one, pulls you in and keeps you until you are at the very end, when you remember to breathe again. There are no lulls in the story, as it continues to build in layers, each feeding you a little more about the twins lives up to their parents murder.
There is of course the continuing thread of how Allie's life is progressing and how her own attitudes are changing, but the twins joining the family will change things forever.
I wish to thank Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read and review this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2016
Don't Say a Word is my first time reading a work by Jennifer Jaynes and I think I've discovered a new author to enjoy. It's a quick, pretty easy read. I like when books don't drag things out simply for the sake of making things longer. It's a good story with some surprising twists and very likeable characters. (Mostly.)
Allie is a twenty two year old woman with a troubled past. Her life has been filled with too much tragedy for her young age. She has her own little family now though, her four year old son and kindly adoptive mother, Bitty. Bitty fostered and later adopted her when Allie was a teenager. Bitty, a woman with a very big heart, still fosters children. Carrie and Zoe are the latest, twelve year old twins. Their parents were murdered by an unknown assailant and they hid in a closet for days. Their psychological damage is overwhelming and understandable. Neither girl is talking much about that night. When Bitty and Allie start to get strange phone calls, they begin to worry. Is the murderer after the girls this time?
I received a copy of this book from the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affects my opinion. Thank you!
Allie is a twenty two year old woman with a troubled past. Her life has been filled with too much tragedy for her young age. She has her own little family now though, her four year old son and kindly adoptive mother, Bitty. Bitty fostered and later adopted her when Allie was a teenager. Bitty, a woman with a very big heart, still fosters children. Carrie and Zoe are the latest, twelve year old twins. Their parents were murdered by an unknown assailant and they hid in a closet for days. Their psychological damage is overwhelming and understandable. Neither girl is talking much about that night. When Bitty and Allie start to get strange phone calls, they begin to worry. Is the murderer after the girls this time?
I received a copy of this book from the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affects my opinion. Thank you!
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