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Detective Allira Rose #1
Azrael
Bronze medal winner - 2018 Independent Publisher Book Awards - Suspense/Thriller category.
Emily thought her ordeal was over after she escaped a brutal kidnapping. She’s wrong. He’s coming for her again.
The body Detective Rose is looking at bears a striking resemblance to Emily, a woman who survived a horrific, sexually motivated abduction five years ago. Her fear is confirmed when Emily goes missing again. When another woman, Grace, is abducted, Detective Rose finds herself doubting the instincts that tell her the disappearance is the result of intimate partner violence. She connects the cases and recruits Grace’s partner, Ethan, to help in the search. Together they must find Grace and Emily before it’s too late.
Emily thought her ordeal was over after she escaped a brutal kidnapping. She’s wrong. He’s coming for her again.
The body Detective Rose is looking at bears a striking resemblance to Emily, a woman who survived a horrific, sexually motivated abduction five years ago. Her fear is confirmed when Emily goes missing again. When another woman, Grace, is abducted, Detective Rose finds herself doubting the instincts that tell her the disappearance is the result of intimate partner violence. She connects the cases and recruits Grace’s partner, Ethan, to help in the search. Together they must find Grace and Emily before it’s too late.
345 pages, Paperback
First published April 30, 2017
464 people are currently reading
640 people want to read
About the author
M.T. Ellis
2 books19 followersM.T. Ellis was shortlisted in the Australian Writers' Centre Furious Fiction competition. Her debut crime thriller, Azrael, won a Bronze medal in the 2018 Independent Publisher Book Awards. She is also a freelance feature writer. http://amzn.to/2hwbdIo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
August 16, 2018
Azrael means Angel of Death.
In the prologue, a young woman, Emily, is abducted and taken to a remote area where Azrael intends to rape and kill her. She hits him with a rock and manages to run and flag down help. He learned a lesson from this first victim and resolved to do better in the future.
Five years later, Azrael kidnaps Grace and squirrels her away on property he inherited from his grandparents. Emily has written a book about her experiences which brings her back into Azrael's radar. Emily goes missing.
Detective Allira Rose is assigned to investigate these cases. She is not a well developed character so far. More of the book is geared toward Azrael, Ethan - Grace's boyfriend, and Grace and Emily. The author gives us glimpses of Azrael's violent childhood and other life away from his hideaway.
I had to look up 'singlet' as this word is used multiple times in the story. I had never heard this term used before but now I know it's an article of clothing.
I may not understand about law enforcement procedures in Australia. Some of the scenes didn't make a logical sense to me but that's probably because I'm used to reading criminal procedures in the U.S. The author is obviously a good writer with a lot of ideas but some places didn't seem to flow smoothly. For example, one chapter detailed police finding the body of woman near a strip club. Then the next chapter showed Azrael following the woman out of the strip club and killing her. Maybe this is a stylistic tool the author used. I was always able to follow the story just fine.
The story wraps up with a lead into the next book, which I wouldn't mind reading. The last paragraph gives an amazing ending.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
In the prologue, a young woman, Emily, is abducted and taken to a remote area where Azrael intends to rape and kill her. She hits him with a rock and manages to run and flag down help. He learned a lesson from this first victim and resolved to do better in the future.
Five years later, Azrael kidnaps Grace and squirrels her away on property he inherited from his grandparents. Emily has written a book about her experiences which brings her back into Azrael's radar. Emily goes missing.
Detective Allira Rose is assigned to investigate these cases. She is not a well developed character so far. More of the book is geared toward Azrael, Ethan - Grace's boyfriend, and Grace and Emily. The author gives us glimpses of Azrael's violent childhood and other life away from his hideaway.
I had to look up 'singlet' as this word is used multiple times in the story. I had never heard this term used before but now I know it's an article of clothing.
I may not understand about law enforcement procedures in Australia. Some of the scenes didn't make a logical sense to me but that's probably because I'm used to reading criminal procedures in the U.S. The author is obviously a good writer with a lot of ideas but some places didn't seem to flow smoothly. For example, one chapter detailed police finding the body of woman near a strip club. Then the next chapter showed Azrael following the woman out of the strip club and killing her. Maybe this is a stylistic tool the author used. I was always able to follow the story just fine.
The story wraps up with a lead into the next book, which I wouldn't mind reading. The last paragraph gives an amazing ending.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway.
September 11, 2018
I liked this book. It has a dark side, which is just how I enjoy mystery/suspense books. Another reader mentioned that some parts were graphic in nature. I didn't really feel like the scenes were that graphic. The majority of readers would be fine with reading this book.
While, I mentioned that I liked this book for the dark edge it brought; I had some problems connecting with the characters. Yes, the situation that Emily and Grace found themselves in was horrible but I found myself not fighting for them as strongly. Of the two women, Emily as the one that I did grow closer too. Maybe it was because she had been abducted once before so she knew what was coming but she was a fighter. Grace acted like the victim.
Where Detective Allira Rose is concerned; I thought she did a nice job of solving the case. She was not the strong lead that I craved. However, as this is the first book in a series, I am sure that she will grow stronger as the series progresses.
While, I mentioned that I liked this book for the dark edge it brought; I had some problems connecting with the characters. Yes, the situation that Emily and Grace found themselves in was horrible but I found myself not fighting for them as strongly. Of the two women, Emily as the one that I did grow closer too. Maybe it was because she had been abducted once before so she knew what was coming but she was a fighter. Grace acted like the victim.
Where Detective Allira Rose is concerned; I thought she did a nice job of solving the case. She was not the strong lead that I craved. However, as this is the first book in a series, I am sure that she will grow stronger as the series progresses.
October 8, 2017
WOW - just finished reading this book. Absolutely brilliant. Could not put it down. I have read all of James Pattersons books and a number of other authors that write crime/fiction. Looking forward to the next one that's for sure. Well done M.T. Ellis - will be highly recommending this book
September 9, 2018
This book was excellent until it reached the climax. Then it completely fell apart.
Over 9 months we had been watching a young man distraught from having his girl friend abducted. He would apparently stop at nothing to find her. Then, he is searching the property where he is sure she is being held and, after a minor setback, he decides to take an hour drive home and return in the morning. Completely out of character.
Then the police are unable to find a bungalow that has existed on the property for 40 years but the young man can find it on Google Earth! He has been previously sidelined by the police on searches but now they immediately accept him and let him lead them to the bungalow.
Then we have prison guards wearing side arms enter the cell of a know homicidally violent offender and allow him to steal one of the weapons.
Finally we have the progeny of the abductor/rapist/murderer instantly and universally accepted by all and sundry.
It was disappointing that the author of an ostensibly good book should take easy, but unbelievable options to reach a swift conclusion.
Over 9 months we had been watching a young man distraught from having his girl friend abducted. He would apparently stop at nothing to find her. Then, he is searching the property where he is sure she is being held and, after a minor setback, he decides to take an hour drive home and return in the morning. Completely out of character.
Then the police are unable to find a bungalow that has existed on the property for 40 years but the young man can find it on Google Earth! He has been previously sidelined by the police on searches but now they immediately accept him and let him lead them to the bungalow.
Then we have prison guards wearing side arms enter the cell of a know homicidally violent offender and allow him to steal one of the weapons.
Finally we have the progeny of the abductor/rapist/murderer instantly and universally accepted by all and sundry.
It was disappointing that the author of an ostensibly good book should take easy, but unbelievable options to reach a swift conclusion.
November 6, 2018
Disappointing and poorly plotted
I've never come across a more inept pair of police officers as Detective Allira Rose and her useless sidekick. All they seemed capable of was looking at CCCTV footage, there was basically no other investigation. I chose the book because it was based in Queensland, but was really disappointed. This is Australia, since Lindy Chamberlain we don't have gutter press like London, just not believable. The end of the book with the birth scene was also unbelievable. Leaving a 5 week premature baby in the hands of Ethan just would not happen in any self-respecting birthing unit. Why would he get custody? He was no relation to the baby. So many holes in this story you could drive a car through it.
I've never come across a more inept pair of police officers as Detective Allira Rose and her useless sidekick. All they seemed capable of was looking at CCCTV footage, there was basically no other investigation. I chose the book because it was based in Queensland, but was really disappointed. This is Australia, since Lindy Chamberlain we don't have gutter press like London, just not believable. The end of the book with the birth scene was also unbelievable. Leaving a 5 week premature baby in the hands of Ethan just would not happen in any self-respecting birthing unit. Why would he get custody? He was no relation to the baby. So many holes in this story you could drive a car through it.
September 19, 2018
Edit Required
This was introduced as a Lilla Rose mystery. Very little Rose was in it. Several contradictions were unexplained. The characters were strong and the writing descriptive. A brutal story that opined that abused children grow up to be abusers and killers. Really? Not necessarily, but it explains the motivation of the main character. Worthwhile reading, especially the ending which suggests that abuse and killing are hereditary!
This was introduced as a Lilla Rose mystery. Very little Rose was in it. Several contradictions were unexplained. The characters were strong and the writing descriptive. A brutal story that opined that abused children grow up to be abusers and killers. Really? Not necessarily, but it explains the motivation of the main character. Worthwhile reading, especially the ending which suggests that abuse and killing are hereditary!
September 26, 2018
Being kidnapped once is more than any person should ever experience. Twice is downright evil. Now another woman is missing and the pure torture and violence behind the kidnapper's intentions are chilling. Psychologically, this is a horrifying tale that will have you jumping at the next story you hear on the news. They will begin to hit too close to home. The characters are deep and complex while the storyline is full of twists that have you questioning the unknown world around us. It's dark, terrifying, and spine-tingling. The motives behind such evil - are they truly hereditary or a learned behavior? Do both play into the outcome? I couldn't stop reading until I had a conclusion -- then the ending is left open-ended for so much more. I'm looking forward to reading more by M.T. Ellis!
I received a complimentary copy of the book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
September 23, 2018
I won this book on Goodreads (Kindle version) for an honest review.
This is a riveting, scary book. The story is upsetting and horrific, yet makes for an excellent detective story. The characters are wonderfully written and the scenery is richly described. I found myself completely immersed in this story and glued to each and every page in anticipation for what is to come next. I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes a well written mystery with a lot of action and some darkness.
This is a riveting, scary book. The story is upsetting and horrific, yet makes for an excellent detective story. The characters are wonderfully written and the scenery is richly described. I found myself completely immersed in this story and glued to each and every page in anticipation for what is to come next. I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes a well written mystery with a lot of action and some darkness.
November 7, 2017
Holy moly. I don't usually read books this quickly but I got through it within a few days. I enjoyed the Brisbane location points and being familiar with the language. I found myself laughing especially the page where he was in the Chinese family's house. A easy read despite the heavy topic, great writing. Brilliant job, looking forward to cracking on the next one.
P.S Yeah Luke shut up :p
P.S Yeah Luke shut up :p
October 23, 2018
Tear-Jerking, Heart-Tugging Excitement!
Ellis' story development reads like a seasoned writer of diverse experience, creating realistically scary scenes and characters! Once begun, this story is difficult to stop, even late at night with a full work schedule awaiting next day. Now, if only Ellis will write some adventure stories about Opal and Zeus!
Ellis' story development reads like a seasoned writer of diverse experience, creating realistically scary scenes and characters! Once begun, this story is difficult to stop, even late at night with a full work schedule awaiting next day. Now, if only Ellis will write some adventure stories about Opal and Zeus!
July 5, 2022
Started Out Good . . .
Then it just became unrealistic. So many police errors. The sicko made so many errors that any police dept would find this guy pretty quickly. Plus, what police dept allows a family member of a victim on a police raid? The boyfriend figured out more than the police. The ending is just too stupid for words. I will skip book #2.
Then it just became unrealistic. So many police errors. The sicko made so many errors that any police dept would find this guy pretty quickly. Plus, what police dept allows a family member of a victim on a police raid? The boyfriend figured out more than the police. The ending is just too stupid for words. I will skip book #2.
October 27, 2022
Two and a half stars rounded up.
I liked the story but it lacked a polished execution. How can Ethan find a property on google maps and yet the police can’t?
Ethan was desperate to find Grace and when he does he doesn’t question anything and life goes on as though nothing happened. Hmm?
The detective was weak and appeared incompetent.
I might however, read the next instalment
I liked the story but it lacked a polished execution. How can Ethan find a property on google maps and yet the police can’t?
Ethan was desperate to find Grace and when he does he doesn’t question anything and life goes on as though nothing happened. Hmm?
The detective was weak and appeared incompetent.
I might however, read the next instalment
September 2, 2018
Msg. Ellis has the knack !
This book grabs you and won't let go. The parts written from the victims' perspective are particularly compelling. This far exceeds my expectations for a first novel.
This book grabs you and won't let go. The parts written from the victims' perspective are particularly compelling. This far exceeds my expectations for a first novel.
September 10, 2018
Set in Australia, fast paced, truly evil abductor of women gets away with multiple murders. Husband of latest victim is prime suspect provides information to detectives and works to find his wife and free her. Twisty ending.
September 16, 2018
Tension Filled
I started this book in the afternoon and could not put it down until the last page had been read. Good background accompanies the main characters so that their actions are better understood. The ending will have the reader yearning for the next book in this series.
I started this book in the afternoon and could not put it down until the last page had been read. Good background accompanies the main characters so that their actions are better understood. The ending will have the reader yearning for the next book in this series.
September 22, 2018
Really bad guy!
I could not believe some of the things this guy did. He didn't have any good qualities at all. I hated it had to end the way it did. Similarities have happened in the news recently.
I could not believe some of the things this guy did. He didn't have any good qualities at all. I hated it had to end the way it did. Similarities have happened in the news recently.
September 26, 2018
Good book for a flight. But the characters were kinda flat. I didnt get emotionally invested in any of them. At the same time, it was still entertaining. I think I downloaded it for free thru Bookbub.
September 26, 2018
Thriller
OMG...This is one exciting book and not for the faint of heart. The main character Azrael is just plain evil! Follow Detective Rose Allira as she looks for a kidnapping victim and while searching another woman goes missing. Can Azrael be stopped?
OMG...This is one exciting book and not for the faint of heart. The main character Azrael is just plain evil! Follow Detective Rose Allira as she looks for a kidnapping victim and while searching another woman goes missing. Can Azrael be stopped?
October 2, 2018
Rough and brutal
One can tell the debut of inexperienced writers. The scenes are slam bang and get to the point too quickly. A good mystery for abduction and sleuthing. Very blunt and not for the squeamish.
One can tell the debut of inexperienced writers. The scenes are slam bang and get to the point too quickly. A good mystery for abduction and sleuthing. Very blunt and not for the squeamish.
December 30, 2018
Exciting
I thought the book was written very well. It held my attention the whole way. I was disappointed that Emily died and Grace died after giving birth but the ending made me happy.
I thought the book was written very well. It held my attention the whole way. I was disappointed that Emily died and Grace died after giving birth but the ending made me happy.
February 20, 2019
A chilling mystery
This book will keep your interest from beginning to end. Two women are abducted by a rapist as the detectives race to find them. Action packed but scary at the same time. Good author.
This book will keep your interest from beginning to end. Two women are abducted by a rapist as the detectives race to find them. Action packed but scary at the same time. Good author.
May 19, 2020
Great book
I truly enjoyed this book. It was riveting. The man was a sick, twisted waste of humanity. What is so bad, is there are really people in the world. God save us all. Thanks for a great read.
I truly enjoyed this book. It was riveting. The man was a sick, twisted waste of humanity. What is so bad, is there are really people in the world. God save us all. Thanks for a great read.
August 14, 2018
Won this in a Goodreads Giveaway. First time for this author. A little too graphic for my taste. Too much time describing the multiple rapes.
October 7, 2018
This was an awesome read. Thrilling, heart in throat and on the edge of my seat. A must read for lovers of crime novels. With a cliff hanger that makes me excited for the sequel!
September 15, 2018
Fantastic!
Wow, she has written a very exciting and suspenseful crime thriller. I can't wait to read her next book. I'm heading over to Amazon immediately to see if is available.
Wow, she has written a very exciting and suspenseful crime thriller. I can't wait to read her next book. I'm heading over to Amazon immediately to see if is available.
October 7, 2018
Good plot but slow.
Good plot but slow. Ending seemed like there was no where else to go but ending. Overall I would recommend but this is not a book I would read twice.
Good plot but slow. Ending seemed like there was no where else to go but ending. Overall I would recommend but this is not a book I would read twice.
November 23, 2018
Good read
A bit of a slow starter, and the story seemed to drag on much longer than necessary, but still a good read.
A bit of a slow starter, and the story seemed to drag on much longer than necessary, but still a good read.
November 24, 2018
Azreal
Very enjoyable book. The good and evil of murder, assault and police procedure! I highly recommend this book. Not for the squeamish!
Very enjoyable book. The good and evil of murder, assault and police procedure! I highly recommend this book. Not for the squeamish!
November 27, 2018
A haunting read!
December 12, 2018
Australian setting but rather mediocre.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews