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Maggie
When sixteen-year-old Maggie Simms’ mum loses her battle with cancer, the only family she has left is her abusive stepfather, Kenny.
Horrified to discover he intends to continue his nightly abuse, Maggie is driven to put a stop to him once and for all.
However, she finds her troubles are only just beginning when several of her closest allies are killed.
Although nothing seems to be linking the deaths, Maggie believes she is jinxed.
Why are the people she cares about being targeted?
And who is really behind the murders?
Sometimes the truth is closer than you think.
224 pages, ebook
First published October 10, 2017
340 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
August 6, 2019
An entertaining, fast paced and frightening, novel!
Look at her, smiling at that old hag as though she hasn’t a care in the world. Not for long. She’ll pay – they’ll all pay for what she’s done.
********
Maggie by Netta Newbound drew in immediately and kept me turning the pages as quickly as I could read!
Overall, the story was a bit over-the-top on believability but I was thoroughly entertained, nevertheless, and it is fiction after all.
I liked the unique concept of the story. Maggie has stopped her abuser, but her troubles are just beginning.
Heart pounding, I couldn't wait to discover what would happen to Maggie in the end.
Was I right? Did I guess who the killer was for a change? Well, yes, I did. It's so nice when one puts the pieces together correctly every once in a while! I was beginning to doubt myself there for awhile, though!
Maggie is a solid, four star, thrilling novel! I wonder what else Netta Newbound has written..... ?
Look at her, smiling at that old hag as though she hasn’t a care in the world. Not for long. She’ll pay – they’ll all pay for what she’s done.
********
Maggie by Netta Newbound drew in immediately and kept me turning the pages as quickly as I could read!
Overall, the story was a bit over-the-top on believability but I was thoroughly entertained, nevertheless, and it is fiction after all.
I liked the unique concept of the story. Maggie has stopped her abuser, but her troubles are just beginning.
Heart pounding, I couldn't wait to discover what would happen to Maggie in the end.
Was I right? Did I guess who the killer was for a change? Well, yes, I did. It's so nice when one puts the pieces together correctly every once in a while! I was beginning to doubt myself there for awhile, though!
Maggie is a solid, four star, thrilling novel! I wonder what else Netta Newbound has written..... ?
November 18, 2017
I found this authors latest book fully absorbing.
Right from the beginning to end it was a book I was flicking through the pages eager to read more and more.
Maggie has lost her mother recently to cancer, we attend the funeral, on that very same evening her awful step father , Kenny, want 'comfort' and has been abusing Maggie since his wife was diagnosed with cancer.
But Maggie wants it to stop.
She needs it to stop.
How can she stop this?
In self defence she stabs him, fatally killing him, she rings the police and 'owns up' but Maggie is sure in a state.
Maggie gets off with self defence, but in the police force there is someone who doesn't believe her, why? Because he was a friend of Kenny her step father and finds this impossible to comprehend, he also came across to me as a 'dirty' policeman, would my mind be convinced of this at the end of the book?
She goes through hell for such a young girl, awful life she has and so much to cope with.
Her best friend makes an appearance which helps, they have had a difficult relationship.
The twist in this plot is amazing, its very rounded as are the characters.
I guessed part way through who may have been involved but that didn't spoil it as I didn't know why.
I am looking forward to her next book and what she plots for us readers.
Right from the beginning to end it was a book I was flicking through the pages eager to read more and more.
Maggie has lost her mother recently to cancer, we attend the funeral, on that very same evening her awful step father , Kenny, want 'comfort' and has been abusing Maggie since his wife was diagnosed with cancer.
But Maggie wants it to stop.
She needs it to stop.
How can she stop this?
In self defence she stabs him, fatally killing him, she rings the police and 'owns up' but Maggie is sure in a state.
Maggie gets off with self defence, but in the police force there is someone who doesn't believe her, why? Because he was a friend of Kenny her step father and finds this impossible to comprehend, he also came across to me as a 'dirty' policeman, would my mind be convinced of this at the end of the book?
She goes through hell for such a young girl, awful life she has and so much to cope with.
Her best friend makes an appearance which helps, they have had a difficult relationship.
The twist in this plot is amazing, its very rounded as are the characters.
I guessed part way through who may have been involved but that didn't spoil it as I didn't know why.
I am looking forward to her next book and what she plots for us readers.
January 27, 2018
Plenty of plot twists and turns.
Maggie is one of those books where at times I saw what was coming clearly and at others it slapped me upside my head! Predict the unpredictable.
Our lead character has suffered some horrific times and the author pulls no punches with some intense disturbing themes early on in the story. Its impacting and leaves in no doubt as to the open, gritty writing that is to flow through the book.
The plot is fast paced and takes you on a twisted journey as a killer is on the rampage and is relentless in taking out everybody of significance. I did not twig at all to the killers identity until very near the end, it was well hidden. Nicely done.
The writing is punchy and strong and makes for fluid reading. It keeps you engrossed in the story and whilst it lacks in elements of forensic detail it makes up for it in its likeability for readers who want an adrenalin fueled read.
I enjoyed this book, it only misses out on that last star as I found some aspects to the story to be just a tad fae fetched and lacking credible details. Overall - a fun read with a plot that will reel you in and keep you guessing until the very end. I was a bit let down feeling the ending to be rounded off a bit rushed. 4 stars from me and recommended to those that love this genre. I'm inspired to read more from Netta in the near future.
Maggie is one of those books where at times I saw what was coming clearly and at others it slapped me upside my head! Predict the unpredictable.
Our lead character has suffered some horrific times and the author pulls no punches with some intense disturbing themes early on in the story. Its impacting and leaves in no doubt as to the open, gritty writing that is to flow through the book.
The plot is fast paced and takes you on a twisted journey as a killer is on the rampage and is relentless in taking out everybody of significance. I did not twig at all to the killers identity until very near the end, it was well hidden. Nicely done.
The writing is punchy and strong and makes for fluid reading. It keeps you engrossed in the story and whilst it lacks in elements of forensic detail it makes up for it in its likeability for readers who want an adrenalin fueled read.
I enjoyed this book, it only misses out on that last star as I found some aspects to the story to be just a tad fae fetched and lacking credible details. Overall - a fun read with a plot that will reel you in and keep you guessing until the very end. I was a bit let down feeling the ending to be rounded off a bit rushed. 4 stars from me and recommended to those that love this genre. I'm inspired to read more from Netta in the near future.
October 19, 2017
4.5 Stars
Maggie is just 16 years old. Her mother has just died from cancer and the only other relative she has is her step-father, Kenny. And Kenny is no angel ... he's expecting Maggie to take her mother's place .. in the kitchen and in the bedroom.
Maggie's world changes dramatically the night Kenny attacks her. Sneaking away while he is sleeping, she takes a knife from the kitchen. When he comes at her again, she stabs him to death.
Her court-appointed solicitor and one of the investigators believe her story and do everything they can to get her cleared of the judicial system. But Kenny's best friend is a cop and he believes that Maggie murdered her step-father in cold blood .. and she will pay.
Living with a next door neighbor who had been a friend to her mother, Maggie thinks things are settling down. She's even been in touch with her previous best friend. Her solicitor becomes a friend, as well.
But then things start happening ..... a store owner who was going to be a character witness for her is burned to death in a house fire. Her solicitor and his girl friend are stabbed to death. The lady she is staying with takes a near-fatal fall down the stairs. And her neighbor's dog is found in the back yard stabbed to death. And to top it all off, Kenny's two deranged sisters move close by.
This is an excellent psychological thriller that goes a suspenseful full-throttle from the very first page. The ending is astonishing. All the characters are credible and not easily forgettable. I guarantee, once started, the reader will not want to put it down until the very last page is read.
Many thanks to the author for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unsolicited, unbiased, and entirely my own.
Maggie is just 16 years old. Her mother has just died from cancer and the only other relative she has is her step-father, Kenny. And Kenny is no angel ... he's expecting Maggie to take her mother's place .. in the kitchen and in the bedroom.
Maggie's world changes dramatically the night Kenny attacks her. Sneaking away while he is sleeping, she takes a knife from the kitchen. When he comes at her again, she stabs him to death.
Her court-appointed solicitor and one of the investigators believe her story and do everything they can to get her cleared of the judicial system. But Kenny's best friend is a cop and he believes that Maggie murdered her step-father in cold blood .. and she will pay.
Living with a next door neighbor who had been a friend to her mother, Maggie thinks things are settling down. She's even been in touch with her previous best friend. Her solicitor becomes a friend, as well.
But then things start happening ..... a store owner who was going to be a character witness for her is burned to death in a house fire. Her solicitor and his girl friend are stabbed to death. The lady she is staying with takes a near-fatal fall down the stairs. And her neighbor's dog is found in the back yard stabbed to death. And to top it all off, Kenny's two deranged sisters move close by.
This is an excellent psychological thriller that goes a suspenseful full-throttle from the very first page. The ending is astonishing. All the characters are credible and not easily forgettable. I guarantee, once started, the reader will not want to put it down until the very last page is read.
Many thanks to the author for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unsolicited, unbiased, and entirely my own.
October 25, 2017
3.5 stars
Review to follow.
Review to follow.
October 21, 2017
Netta Newbound is an author who knows how to shock her readers. Her books should come with a warning.
Sexual abuse is something that isn’t easy to stomach and the start of the book shows us just what Maggie will have to endure by living with her horrible step father. Maggie has other ideas though to Kenny and I have to say I had every empathy for Maggie and in a way I condoned what she does to put a stop to it.
Sadly for Maggie this is just the start of horrible events that are about to happen to people around her. For a sixteen year old, due to what she has been through, Maggie is quite grown up for her age. I felt sad she wasn’t able to live out the rest of her childhood as such being that, a child. She has to grow up very quickly.
This really is a page turner of a read. I started it late on an evening and ended up reading half of it and would have stayed up all night to finish it if it hadn’t been for my husband moaning that I was keeping him from falling asleep. I quickly got all my chores done first thing the next morning though and was straight back into it and didn’t put it down until I reached the end.
Maggie is one dark and twisted read. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing throughout and I loved that I would have one suspect in mind only for the author to throw that to the wind and for me then to have to throw my suspicions on to someone else. Only to be wrong again I may add. Netta Newbound is without a doubt the queen of shocking psychological thrillers. If you love a shocking and thrilling read that will have you gripping on for dear life, then without a doubt Maggie is the book for you.
Sexual abuse is something that isn’t easy to stomach and the start of the book shows us just what Maggie will have to endure by living with her horrible step father. Maggie has other ideas though to Kenny and I have to say I had every empathy for Maggie and in a way I condoned what she does to put a stop to it.
Sadly for Maggie this is just the start of horrible events that are about to happen to people around her. For a sixteen year old, due to what she has been through, Maggie is quite grown up for her age. I felt sad she wasn’t able to live out the rest of her childhood as such being that, a child. She has to grow up very quickly.
This really is a page turner of a read. I started it late on an evening and ended up reading half of it and would have stayed up all night to finish it if it hadn’t been for my husband moaning that I was keeping him from falling asleep. I quickly got all my chores done first thing the next morning though and was straight back into it and didn’t put it down until I reached the end.
Maggie is one dark and twisted read. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing throughout and I loved that I would have one suspect in mind only for the author to throw that to the wind and for me then to have to throw my suspicions on to someone else. Only to be wrong again I may add. Netta Newbound is without a doubt the queen of shocking psychological thrillers. If you love a shocking and thrilling read that will have you gripping on for dear life, then without a doubt Maggie is the book for you.
October 9, 2017
A thrilling psychological nightmare for 16 year old Maggie, as her mother has breast cancer, step-father sexually abuses her, friends desert her as her Mom dies , and the step-father believes he can keep raping her-you can't blame her for stabbing him to death!! The young woman is arrested and scared by Officer Jake, who was a good friend of the deceased, as he doesn't believe anything she says and wants her to pay dearly for the murder of his friend. Thankfully a woman detective, Donna, takes Maggie's case and believes what she hears and can justify from the evidence.
Maggie is free, as case was made for self-defense, but is she really free..the people around her that took interest and helped her start having 'accidents', resulting in several deaths..Each time Maggie is arrested and questioned, it seems strange that all those around her are losing life..
This story keeps you on the edge of your seat and turning pages quickly! Don't think of being able to put this down to pick up later, you will find yourself finishing the book to satisfy your mind and then you can relax!!
And now I will just breathe for awhile....
Maggie is free, as case was made for self-defense, but is she really free..the people around her that took interest and helped her start having 'accidents', resulting in several deaths..Each time Maggie is arrested and questioned, it seems strange that all those around her are losing life..
This story keeps you on the edge of your seat and turning pages quickly! Don't think of being able to put this down to pick up later, you will find yourself finishing the book to satisfy your mind and then you can relax!!
And now I will just breathe for awhile....
November 23, 2017
Teenager Maggie has been through a lot in her short life, and when her step-father tries to make it even worse, she defends herself, but gets accused of murder.
The aftermath of her actions have consequences I didn't see coming. A series of events that would cause most adults pain and grief, are met by a resilience that made Maggie appear older than her years.
I enjoyed reading the story and trying to figure out who was causing Maggie so much trouble. I did work out how the story ends before I got there, but not the why. I though the connections between Maggie, her step-father and 'the trouble causer' were well done, and illustrates the extent to which some people will go to when they are fooled or brainwashed into thinking someone cares about them, and loves them.
A great piece of psychological suspense
The aftermath of her actions have consequences I didn't see coming. A series of events that would cause most adults pain and grief, are met by a resilience that made Maggie appear older than her years.
I enjoyed reading the story and trying to figure out who was causing Maggie so much trouble. I did work out how the story ends before I got there, but not the why. I though the connections between Maggie, her step-father and 'the trouble causer' were well done, and illustrates the extent to which some people will go to when they are fooled or brainwashed into thinking someone cares about them, and loves them.
A great piece of psychological suspense
October 20, 2017
Maggie, reeling from the loss of her mother is left alone with her stepfather Kenny, who has been abusing her for months. Unable to see a way out she kills him.
She is acquitted of his murder but the people who helped her begin dying in seemingly random accidents.
She thinks she’s cursed but local policeman, and Kenny’s best friend, detective Jake Stuart, is hounding her, thinking she is responsible for their deaths.
Now I feel so sorry for Maggie, as she’s only sixteen and she’s forced to commit an unspeakable crime. But I had to keep reminding myself she was that young, as throughout most of the book, (it’s written in the first person), it’s more like a twenty or thirty year old woman talking.
There are some good supporting characters like Claudia, Maggie’s kind neighbour who takes her in after killing Kenny and her friend Rachel, who dumped her when her mother got sick but then rekindled their friendship. Then we have detective Jake Stuart, he is absolutely vile and wished I could punch him in the face.
There’s a few good twists in the story and I liked the little glimpses inside the mind of the killer but I felt the story line was a bit rushed and lacking in detail. Also it felt more like a young adult novel, which there’s nothing wrong with, I love a good YA novel, but I was expecting something a little grittier.
Overall not the most detailed but a quick and easy read.
She is acquitted of his murder but the people who helped her begin dying in seemingly random accidents.
She thinks she’s cursed but local policeman, and Kenny’s best friend, detective Jake Stuart, is hounding her, thinking she is responsible for their deaths.
Now I feel so sorry for Maggie, as she’s only sixteen and she’s forced to commit an unspeakable crime. But I had to keep reminding myself she was that young, as throughout most of the book, (it’s written in the first person), it’s more like a twenty or thirty year old woman talking.
There are some good supporting characters like Claudia, Maggie’s kind neighbour who takes her in after killing Kenny and her friend Rachel, who dumped her when her mother got sick but then rekindled their friendship. Then we have detective Jake Stuart, he is absolutely vile and wished I could punch him in the face.
There’s a few good twists in the story and I liked the little glimpses inside the mind of the killer but I felt the story line was a bit rushed and lacking in detail. Also it felt more like a young adult novel, which there’s nothing wrong with, I love a good YA novel, but I was expecting something a little grittier.
Overall not the most detailed but a quick and easy read.
October 14, 2017
This is another amazing read from Netta Newbound, one of many I might add.
Maggie Simms is only 16 years Old but already her life has been filled with nothing but trauma and heart ache. After burying her mother she is left sharing the family home with her abusive stepfather. Unfortunately he expects her to fill her mother's place in his bed. Maggie is driven to get rid of him once and for all.
But this is only the beginning of her problems when those around her begin losing their lives. Why? Is she jinxed or is there something far more sinister afoot?
As with all Netta's novels this was an exceptional page-turner and extremely difficult to put down until I read those immortal words THE END.
A fabulous read not to be missed.
Maggie Simms is only 16 years Old but already her life has been filled with nothing but trauma and heart ache. After burying her mother she is left sharing the family home with her abusive stepfather. Unfortunately he expects her to fill her mother's place in his bed. Maggie is driven to get rid of him once and for all.
But this is only the beginning of her problems when those around her begin losing their lives. Why? Is she jinxed or is there something far more sinister afoot?
As with all Netta's novels this was an exceptional page-turner and extremely difficult to put down until I read those immortal words THE END.
A fabulous read not to be missed.
October 21, 2017
A small selection of good friends have been recommending I try Netta Newbound's books as they knew I'd love them - they were right!
"Maggie" is a wonderful psychological thriller which had me completely hooked for a couple of days.
I convinced myself constantly through
the book that I knew who was terrorising Maggie, but at every turn of the page - I was proved wrong! The chapters are short and full of red herrings which completely threw me off the right track of solving the mystery.
Many Thanks to Bloodhound books and Netta for giving me the opportunity of reading this fabulous book, I look forward to reading her other books very soon, some of which I have already purchased and they await me on my Kindle.
"Maggie" is a wonderful psychological thriller which had me completely hooked for a couple of days.
I convinced myself constantly through
the book that I knew who was terrorising Maggie, but at every turn of the page - I was proved wrong! The chapters are short and full of red herrings which completely threw me off the right track of solving the mystery.
Many Thanks to Bloodhound books and Netta for giving me the opportunity of reading this fabulous book, I look forward to reading her other books very soon, some of which I have already purchased and they await me on my Kindle.
October 21, 2017
Maggie by Netta Newbound.
Maggie's mum has just passed away. Maggie is only 16. She only has her step dad now. But he is not good to her. She feels the only way out is to kill him. But what happens next?
This was a moving and heartwrenching read. I really felt for maggie. It bought tears to my eyes at what she went through. I really wanted to know who was doing the killing. I had my suspicions. I didn't see that coming. Shocked. 5*. Highly recommended. Bloodhound books.
Maggie's mum has just passed away. Maggie is only 16. She only has her step dad now. But he is not good to her. She feels the only way out is to kill him. But what happens next?
This was a moving and heartwrenching read. I really felt for maggie. It bought tears to my eyes at what she went through. I really wanted to know who was doing the killing. I had my suspicions. I didn't see that coming. Shocked. 5*. Highly recommended. Bloodhound books.
October 19, 2017
Another great book from this author, fantastic story as always along with her usual brilliant characters
October 23, 2017
The book was a corking read .Maddie and Rachel make the reading wonderful
October 26, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author. Maggie is a fantastic read, tense, sinister and mysterious.
Sixteen year old Maggie has lost her mum to cancer and is left to share the family home with stepfather Kenny. It transpires he has been abusing her while her mum was sick and has every intention of continuing.
This is just the beginning of Maggie’s trauma. Folloiwng an incident with Kenny her life takes a turn for the worse. She has no other family so moves in with next door neighbour Claudia who treats her like a grand-daughter, Claudia and her dog Sandy give Maggie the stability she needs until sinister events begin to surround her and all the people she is close to.
Is Maggie jinxed or is there a connection? Maggie is accused of being responsible and she has to pull out all the stops to prove innocence .. will anyone belive her? With the aid of best friend Rachel she tries to regain some normality.
I flew throught this book, Claudia is a homely cosy old lady, Maggie is understandably angry and suspicious. Just as there seems a glimmer of hope some other tragedy befalls her. I just wanted to mother her and make her world right, keep her safe from harm.
All the characters are fully formed, some are lovely others absolutely despicable, Kenny himself was a monster followed closely in my dislike list by Jake, one of the police officers who behaves appallingly to Maggie in my opinion and I would have had no trouble reporting him!
Brilliantly written, this book kept me hooked until the early hours of the morning. I couldn’t stop reading because I felt as though I would be failing Maggie as well if I gave up and slept!! That’s how realistic it was. If you like gritty, thriller, whodunnit types this excels on all levels.
This deserves 5 stars or more for entertainment value. By the time I reached ‘The End’ I was a strung out mess! I will certainly be checking out other books by Netta.
My thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah Hardy for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Sixteen year old Maggie has lost her mum to cancer and is left to share the family home with stepfather Kenny. It transpires he has been abusing her while her mum was sick and has every intention of continuing.
This is just the beginning of Maggie’s trauma. Folloiwng an incident with Kenny her life takes a turn for the worse. She has no other family so moves in with next door neighbour Claudia who treats her like a grand-daughter, Claudia and her dog Sandy give Maggie the stability she needs until sinister events begin to surround her and all the people she is close to.
Is Maggie jinxed or is there a connection? Maggie is accused of being responsible and she has to pull out all the stops to prove innocence .. will anyone belive her? With the aid of best friend Rachel she tries to regain some normality.
I flew throught this book, Claudia is a homely cosy old lady, Maggie is understandably angry and suspicious. Just as there seems a glimmer of hope some other tragedy befalls her. I just wanted to mother her and make her world right, keep her safe from harm.
All the characters are fully formed, some are lovely others absolutely despicable, Kenny himself was a monster followed closely in my dislike list by Jake, one of the police officers who behaves appallingly to Maggie in my opinion and I would have had no trouble reporting him!
Brilliantly written, this book kept me hooked until the early hours of the morning. I couldn’t stop reading because I felt as though I would be failing Maggie as well if I gave up and slept!! That’s how realistic it was. If you like gritty, thriller, whodunnit types this excels on all levels.
This deserves 5 stars or more for entertainment value. By the time I reached ‘The End’ I was a strung out mess! I will certainly be checking out other books by Netta.
My thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah Hardy for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
October 19, 2017
I have to admit that as a huge fan of Netta Newbound I have high expectations of her books. I agreed to read and review Maggie based solely on the author’s name without reading the blurb. It was bumped up my pile of books to read and, looking forward to a great read, I started Maggie.
So it was my own fault that I was taken by surprise by the abusive step-father at the start of the book, a subject that I will normally avoid. Thankfully the book soon moved on and I got sucked into the life of Maggie, a feisty teen who finds herself an orphan with many people suspicious and against her, she relies on the few people that stand by her. Determined to move away and get a fresh start Maggie finds herself drawn back home when one of her allies is seriously injured in what appears to have been an accident.
Soon enough more of her friends are being murdered and Maggie is sure that the killings are random. But who can she trust? And why is someone killing everyone that she loves?
I did enjoy Maggie, it was a twisty read that kept me guessing, but not guessing enough as I did work out the ‘who done it’ quite early on. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, and I did like the storyline but I definitely feel that this is not one of the author’s best books. Perhaps this is unfair of me, as if it had been written by another author who I didn’t have such high expectations of I may well have been less critical.
But don’t let that put you off, Maggie is still a great read and an enjoyable one and Maggie, the character, is great and although I hope that her life got a lot easier after the events in this book, I would be happy to revisit in another book.
Thank you to the author, Netta Newbound, and the publisher, Bloodhound Books, for my copy of Maggie. I was under no obligation to review the book and all thoughts are my own.
Read more of my reviews on www.ifonlyicouldreadfaster.com
So it was my own fault that I was taken by surprise by the abusive step-father at the start of the book, a subject that I will normally avoid. Thankfully the book soon moved on and I got sucked into the life of Maggie, a feisty teen who finds herself an orphan with many people suspicious and against her, she relies on the few people that stand by her. Determined to move away and get a fresh start Maggie finds herself drawn back home when one of her allies is seriously injured in what appears to have been an accident.
Soon enough more of her friends are being murdered and Maggie is sure that the killings are random. But who can she trust? And why is someone killing everyone that she loves?
I did enjoy Maggie, it was a twisty read that kept me guessing, but not guessing enough as I did work out the ‘who done it’ quite early on. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, and I did like the storyline but I definitely feel that this is not one of the author’s best books. Perhaps this is unfair of me, as if it had been written by another author who I didn’t have such high expectations of I may well have been less critical.
But don’t let that put you off, Maggie is still a great read and an enjoyable one and Maggie, the character, is great and although I hope that her life got a lot easier after the events in this book, I would be happy to revisit in another book.
Thank you to the author, Netta Newbound, and the publisher, Bloodhound Books, for my copy of Maggie. I was under no obligation to review the book and all thoughts are my own.
Read more of my reviews on www.ifonlyicouldreadfaster.com
October 21, 2017
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My immediate thoughts when I finished this book were wow, what a fantastic book!!
I loved everything about it from the front cover and first few chapters to the ending - absolutely brilliant writing - I was hooked!! I thought that the plot was superb and Maggie is a fantastic character - such a page turner!! Loved it!!
This is actually the first book that I have read by Netta but I have bought a few of her other books from my wishlist to rectify that very quickly!! - I have definitely been missing out!! 5 stars - brilliant!!
My immediate thoughts when I finished this book were wow, what a fantastic book!!
I loved everything about it from the front cover and first few chapters to the ending - absolutely brilliant writing - I was hooked!! I thought that the plot was superb and Maggie is a fantastic character - such a page turner!! Loved it!!
This is actually the first book that I have read by Netta but I have bought a few of her other books from my wishlist to rectify that very quickly!! - I have definitely been missing out!! 5 stars - brilliant!!
January 2, 2024
Maggie is AMAZING! This book is everything and more I could have wanted in a psychological thriller.
It is an easy to read, gripping and fast-paced book with characters who develop well as the book progresses.
Maggie is a sixteen year old girl, who hasn’t had an easy life – left alone with her abusive step father after burying her mother, Maggie’s troubles are just beginning.
This book takes a series of twists and turns along the way and left me questioning who really was behind the murders and is Maggie jinxed?
Netta has included some sensitive but hard going subjects and many readers may find it difficult/upsetting to read about but it really is a brilliant whodunnit book.
Netta was a new author for me & after reading Maggie, I’m excited to read her previous novels as well as any upcoming novels.
This book comes highly recommended for all fans of psychological thrillers.
My thanks go to Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound books for inviting me to take part on this blog blitz.
It is an easy to read, gripping and fast-paced book with characters who develop well as the book progresses.
Maggie is a sixteen year old girl, who hasn’t had an easy life – left alone with her abusive step father after burying her mother, Maggie’s troubles are just beginning.
This book takes a series of twists and turns along the way and left me questioning who really was behind the murders and is Maggie jinxed?
Netta has included some sensitive but hard going subjects and many readers may find it difficult/upsetting to read about but it really is a brilliant whodunnit book.
Netta was a new author for me & after reading Maggie, I’m excited to read her previous novels as well as any upcoming novels.
This book comes highly recommended for all fans of psychological thrillers.
My thanks go to Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound books for inviting me to take part on this blog blitz.
August 9, 2019
Brilliant!!!!
This is my first time reading one of Netta Newbound's books and I started reading with some trepidation, not sure how dark it would be. But I needn't have worried as I loved every second of it! The words sucked me into the pages and the story gripped me from the beginning, with twists and turns I obviously didn't see coming with some parts having me in tears. I'm really looking forward to reading more stories from this author. Highly recommended.
This is my first time reading one of Netta Newbound's books and I started reading with some trepidation, not sure how dark it would be. But I needn't have worried as I loved every second of it! The words sucked me into the pages and the story gripped me from the beginning, with twists and turns I obviously didn't see coming with some parts having me in tears. I'm really looking forward to reading more stories from this author. Highly recommended.
March 10, 2018
A dark twisted read, horrific subject matter that was handled well in writing.
I would definitely read more by this author.
I would definitely read more by this author.
October 20, 2017
Maggie by Netta Newbound is a heart wrenching psychological thriller which tore at every ounce of my being. I felt a multitude of emotions whilst reading about Maggie, a sixteen year old who loses her mother to cancer only to be abused by her lecherous step-father, Kenny.
After all the turmoil of Maggie’s mothers death and the funeral, Kenny is killed at the hands of Maggie in self defence after a particularly vicious sexual assault, then the people who believe in Maggie start to die.
Is Maggie to blame?
Who will believe Maggie?
Does someone want to frame Maggie?
The characters created by Netta are steadfast and wholesome, especially in the case of Maggie, there were two sides shown to Maggie. When under duress it was apparent Maggie was withdrawn and uncommunicative with her peers, as her demeanour and circumstances changed she became more sensitive, forthright and independent drawing me closer to her. I felt a bond with Claudia a character who loved and protected Maggie, she reminded me a little of myself, a selfless character who would do anything to help another.
Don’t get me wrong not all the characters were worthy of my praise, there were a few dubious and repulsive personalities who I would gladly see an expiration date on, which is exactly what I think Netta portrayed in a methodical manner.
Netta has produced a book with edge, even though Maggie contains scenes which some readers may find wretched, Netta has communicated the topic with sensitivity and not sensationalised it, but stuck to the facts.
Questions are raise in rapid succession, deaths just as fast, holy moly my head was spinning, even with all the furore I was a bundle of nerves wondering what could possibly happen next.
Netta is a first-class writer, a master of psychological intensity which will have you hanging on by your fingertips with fear and trepidation.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books, Netta Newbound and Sarah Hardy for an advanced readers copy of Maggie in exchange for an honest and impartial opinion.
After all the turmoil of Maggie’s mothers death and the funeral, Kenny is killed at the hands of Maggie in self defence after a particularly vicious sexual assault, then the people who believe in Maggie start to die.
Is Maggie to blame?
Who will believe Maggie?
Does someone want to frame Maggie?
The characters created by Netta are steadfast and wholesome, especially in the case of Maggie, there were two sides shown to Maggie. When under duress it was apparent Maggie was withdrawn and uncommunicative with her peers, as her demeanour and circumstances changed she became more sensitive, forthright and independent drawing me closer to her. I felt a bond with Claudia a character who loved and protected Maggie, she reminded me a little of myself, a selfless character who would do anything to help another.
Don’t get me wrong not all the characters were worthy of my praise, there were a few dubious and repulsive personalities who I would gladly see an expiration date on, which is exactly what I think Netta portrayed in a methodical manner.
Netta has produced a book with edge, even though Maggie contains scenes which some readers may find wretched, Netta has communicated the topic with sensitivity and not sensationalised it, but stuck to the facts.
Questions are raise in rapid succession, deaths just as fast, holy moly my head was spinning, even with all the furore I was a bundle of nerves wondering what could possibly happen next.
Netta is a first-class writer, a master of psychological intensity which will have you hanging on by your fingertips with fear and trepidation.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books, Netta Newbound and Sarah Hardy for an advanced readers copy of Maggie in exchange for an honest and impartial opinion.
October 19, 2017
Maggie
Holy smokes! I’ve just finished Maggie and my head is spinning!! A word of warning, don’t start this book if you have things to do because you genuinely won’t be able to put it down!
Maggie is a teen who has just buried her mum. Her stepdad has been abusing her for months and he makes it clear that he intends for it to carry on now her mum is dead. Filled with grief, anger and fear, Maggie kills him, and there begins her true nightmare.
This is my perfect psychological thriller, it’s a breath taking, heart stopping read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It takes you on a roller coaster ride of twists and turns that really will make you dizzy. I thought I’d worked it out on more than one occasion, but of course I was so wrong!!
Netta Newbound, you’ve done it again, five shiny stars from purplebookstand!
I was lucky enough to be provided with an advanced copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
Holy smokes! I’ve just finished Maggie and my head is spinning!! A word of warning, don’t start this book if you have things to do because you genuinely won’t be able to put it down!
Maggie is a teen who has just buried her mum. Her stepdad has been abusing her for months and he makes it clear that he intends for it to carry on now her mum is dead. Filled with grief, anger and fear, Maggie kills him, and there begins her true nightmare.
This is my perfect psychological thriller, it’s a breath taking, heart stopping read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It takes you on a roller coaster ride of twists and turns that really will make you dizzy. I thought I’d worked it out on more than one occasion, but of course I was so wrong!!
Netta Newbound, you’ve done it again, five shiny stars from purplebookstand!
I was lucky enough to be provided with an advanced copy of this book and I voluntarily reviewed it.
May 24, 2018
Today is my turn to host the Blog Blitz for Maggie by Netta Newbound. It is an absolute pleasure to participate. Thanks to Sarah Hardy and Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to be a part of the release of this thrilling book.
It is very rare for a book to stick with me after I have finished reading it. This year I have read maybe 4 books I still think about from time to time. Maggie is now among that number. Maggie is an addictive and bittersweet tale of loss and survival.
Disaster seems to follow the main character, 16 year old, Maggie like a dark cloud. After the death of her mother she is left to live with her abusive stepfather. When she realizes the abuse will only get worse, Maggie takes drastic action; soon after, people within her group of support are targeted by an unknown enemy. Maggie blames herself and wonders if she is the cause of all this misery while struggling to find the identity of her enemy.
The story is fast paced with short chapters told primarily from Maggie’s point of view, with a few scattered chapters focusing on the other characters perspectives. Some chapters also provide a quick glimpse into the mind of Maggie’s enemy. When the story begins you may wonder if Maggie will be an unreliable narrator; however the chapters told from the perspective of the other characters serve to validate Maggie’s actions and feelings. This does not take away any suspense, for me it enhanced the suspense. Ruling out the chances of an unreliable narrator kept me interested and more curious to find who was the source of Maggie’s troubles.
Usually I do not like unanswered questions or endings where I have to make assumptions. Some characters that died during the book, died without a clear indication of their motives or their role in Maggie’s misery. For some reason I did not mind this at all, I believe this is why I still think about the book from time to time.
Maggie is a story of heartbreak and betrayal that left me feeling sad yet hopeful. Through all the tragedies, dangers, and times of uncertainty, Maggie presses on with hopes of having a somewhat normal life. When she wanted to give up, I cheered her on; I was fully immersed in Maggie’s life. Readers looking for a page turning story of survival and suspense will love this book.
**Thanks to Bloodhound Books for my review copy**
It is very rare for a book to stick with me after I have finished reading it. This year I have read maybe 4 books I still think about from time to time. Maggie is now among that number. Maggie is an addictive and bittersweet tale of loss and survival.
Disaster seems to follow the main character, 16 year old, Maggie like a dark cloud. After the death of her mother she is left to live with her abusive stepfather. When she realizes the abuse will only get worse, Maggie takes drastic action; soon after, people within her group of support are targeted by an unknown enemy. Maggie blames herself and wonders if she is the cause of all this misery while struggling to find the identity of her enemy.
The story is fast paced with short chapters told primarily from Maggie’s point of view, with a few scattered chapters focusing on the other characters perspectives. Some chapters also provide a quick glimpse into the mind of Maggie’s enemy. When the story begins you may wonder if Maggie will be an unreliable narrator; however the chapters told from the perspective of the other characters serve to validate Maggie’s actions and feelings. This does not take away any suspense, for me it enhanced the suspense. Ruling out the chances of an unreliable narrator kept me interested and more curious to find who was the source of Maggie’s troubles.
Usually I do not like unanswered questions or endings where I have to make assumptions. Some characters that died during the book, died without a clear indication of their motives or their role in Maggie’s misery. For some reason I did not mind this at all, I believe this is why I still think about the book from time to time.
Maggie is a story of heartbreak and betrayal that left me feeling sad yet hopeful. Through all the tragedies, dangers, and times of uncertainty, Maggie presses on with hopes of having a somewhat normal life. When she wanted to give up, I cheered her on; I was fully immersed in Maggie’s life. Readers looking for a page turning story of survival and suspense will love this book.
**Thanks to Bloodhound Books for my review copy**
October 10, 2017
This book had me gripped from start to finish. Maggie has lost her mother to cancer, but during those tough four months of her mother's illness, her stepfather, Kenny, has been sexually abusing her. After the funeral, Kenny rapes her and Maggie can't take any more and stabs him to death.
Yes it is murder, but my sympathy was with Maggie as she acted in self-defence and needed to protect herself. Throughout the investigation Maggie faces kindness from some, but one detective who had been a friend of Kenny's treats her abominably.
I could not put this book down as there are several murders, all people who have in some way been involved with the investigations. All fingers point to Maggie. I suspected almost everyone at some part of the book so could not put it down until I found out.
Netta Newbound is an author who never fails to produce books that enthrall me.
Yes it is murder, but my sympathy was with Maggie as she acted in self-defence and needed to protect herself. Throughout the investigation Maggie faces kindness from some, but one detective who had been a friend of Kenny's treats her abominably.
I could not put this book down as there are several murders, all people who have in some way been involved with the investigations. All fingers point to Maggie. I suspected almost everyone at some part of the book so could not put it down until I found out.
Netta Newbound is an author who never fails to produce books that enthrall me.
December 3, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m giving this 5 stars on the basis that it was easy to read, kept me hooked from the start, kept me guessing and I finished it in 24 hours. What more can you ask for really?!
Yes it was written in a very simple way and yes there are so many twists and red herrings and yes a tad implausible in parts....however I still loved it.
I recommend this book and having never read any by this author before I will now be checking out the back catalogue.
I’m giving this 5 stars on the basis that it was easy to read, kept me hooked from the start, kept me guessing and I finished it in 24 hours. What more can you ask for really?!
Yes it was written in a very simple way and yes there are so many twists and red herrings and yes a tad implausible in parts....however I still loved it.
I recommend this book and having never read any by this author before I will now be checking out the back catalogue.
October 20, 2017
A Sharp..Tense Psychological Read...
Maggie..sixteen years old with the world at her feet is heartbroken after returning from her mothers funeral...but Maggie's life is about to take a turn for the worst ...raped and beaten by her stepdad ...she flips and kills him....when the case is investigated one officer Jake begins to make her life a misery...Then an officer that was on her side dies in an accident...And suddenly those that are around her begin to die...Maggie moves in with an old lady and her dog....Then decides on the advice of her lawyer to start afresh in London..Here Maggie is invisible, happy and content...Then when the call comes that there has been another accident...Maggie returns to her hometown... Where the killings escalate...As everything seems to be against her Maggie turns to a childhood friend Rachel...who she grows closer too...but now the killer has their sight set on Maggie herself....Danger and evil is at her door....This time there may be no escape...as Maggie is faced with the past ...the reason and the ultimate betrayal...A tense sharp fast page turner.....Leading up to a shocking twist in the story....Netta Newbound is one of the best Psychological thriller writers of our time...
Maggie..sixteen years old with the world at her feet is heartbroken after returning from her mothers funeral...but Maggie's life is about to take a turn for the worst ...raped and beaten by her stepdad ...she flips and kills him....when the case is investigated one officer Jake begins to make her life a misery...Then an officer that was on her side dies in an accident...And suddenly those that are around her begin to die...Maggie moves in with an old lady and her dog....Then decides on the advice of her lawyer to start afresh in London..Here Maggie is invisible, happy and content...Then when the call comes that there has been another accident...Maggie returns to her hometown... Where the killings escalate...As everything seems to be against her Maggie turns to a childhood friend Rachel...who she grows closer too...but now the killer has their sight set on Maggie herself....Danger and evil is at her door....This time there may be no escape...as Maggie is faced with the past ...the reason and the ultimate betrayal...A tense sharp fast page turner.....Leading up to a shocking twist in the story....Netta Newbound is one of the best Psychological thriller writers of our time...
October 19, 2017
Maggie is a teen that has been through the mill at the tender age of 16, she has just buried her mum, her step dad shows her the new way of life and what to expect.
When Maggie thinks things can't get worse, her support network is taken away by death. She is left wondering who and why?
I am always interested in where this author will take us, and we really do travel a journey with Maggie, she is a character that you want to hug, cheer on and survive.
There are plenty of unsavoury charactersin this read to keep you guessing, and Netta is the master of twisted, and this is extremely well done within the pages of Maggie.
A snappy quick turning page reader, with a full on cast of characters that some you can't help but like from the start and others despise. Maggie's character is written extremely well, and I found I wanted to take her in and protect her from all life's ills...but, unsure if I dare with all that is left within the trail of destruction when she comes into contact with you.
An extremely suspenseful read with the Newbound traits that I have come to love in this authors written work.
When Maggie thinks things can't get worse, her support network is taken away by death. She is left wondering who and why?
I am always interested in where this author will take us, and we really do travel a journey with Maggie, she is a character that you want to hug, cheer on and survive.
There are plenty of unsavoury charactersin this read to keep you guessing, and Netta is the master of twisted, and this is extremely well done within the pages of Maggie.
A snappy quick turning page reader, with a full on cast of characters that some you can't help but like from the start and others despise. Maggie's character is written extremely well, and I found I wanted to take her in and protect her from all life's ills...but, unsure if I dare with all that is left within the trail of destruction when she comes into contact with you.
An extremely suspenseful read with the Newbound traits that I have come to love in this authors written work.
December 4, 2017
I love all of Netta Newbound's books because I love her STYLE of writing, and I can never wait until she brings out another book. All her books read like she just sat down one day and wrote the book from start to finish off the top of her head without ever having to stop to think very much about what she is saying, and everything just came out perfectly all by itself. It's so smooth and flowing, like the narrators are sitting in your kitchen with you telling you all about their lives. Maggie is a gripping and emotional book where you feel like just shaking the author to make her kill off all the baddies right away haha, that is how hateful all the villains are and how well developed all the characters are. I really didn't guess who the killer was, although I had my suspicions. But since I suspected several characters, that doesn't really count haha. Get this book if you want a really great read where lots of things are happening and you want to feel like the heroes and heroines are your friends, so you really care about them and want to find out what happens to them.
October 19, 2017
This is the first book by Netta Newbound that I have read but will definitely not be the last.
I have to admit the opening chapters are quite brutal to read and I thought very well written. It all starts when Maggies mum dies from cancer and is left with only her step-father, Kenny. After the funeral her step-father attacks her and Maggie feels she has no option but to kill him in self defence. From there the story continues to tell how Maggie copes and continues with her life after the traumatic events. Then the people who helped Maggie during the court case start to die around her, leaving her as the main suspect.
I absolutely loved this book and was totally gripped until the very end. A lot of twists and turns and a bit of a shocker at a certain point as well, but won't give anything away. A real turn pager and would definitely recommend it.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
I have to admit the opening chapters are quite brutal to read and I thought very well written. It all starts when Maggies mum dies from cancer and is left with only her step-father, Kenny. After the funeral her step-father attacks her and Maggie feels she has no option but to kill him in self defence. From there the story continues to tell how Maggie copes and continues with her life after the traumatic events. Then the people who helped Maggie during the court case start to die around her, leaving her as the main suspect.
I absolutely loved this book and was totally gripped until the very end. A lot of twists and turns and a bit of a shocker at a certain point as well, but won't give anything away. A real turn pager and would definitely recommend it.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
June 13, 2018
A real page turner
This is my first time reading from the author, Netta Newbound.
She had come highly recommended to me by a friend who couldn't praise her books highly enough.
And so I started with Maggie.
What can I say about this book? It was fantastic! I'm a huge fan of psychological thrillers, and this story did not disappoint. I was drawn into the story from the first few pages, I found the style of writing very easy to get into. And it took me towards the end of the book until I started to get my suspicions about 'whodunnit'. And although I did figure it out before the book ended, it didn't spoil anything about the story or the ending.
I look forward to reading more books by Netta Newbound.
This is my first time reading from the author, Netta Newbound.
She had come highly recommended to me by a friend who couldn't praise her books highly enough.
And so I started with Maggie.
What can I say about this book? It was fantastic! I'm a huge fan of psychological thrillers, and this story did not disappoint. I was drawn into the story from the first few pages, I found the style of writing very easy to get into. And it took me towards the end of the book until I started to get my suspicions about 'whodunnit'. And although I did figure it out before the book ended, it didn't spoil anything about the story or the ending.
I look forward to reading more books by Netta Newbound.
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