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Lotus Effect
Lakin Hale, true crime writer and victim of an attack that left her for dead, helps crime solvers and victims close cold cases, yet there is one crime she hasn’t been able to solve:
Her own.
As she embarks on a new case, working closely with Special Agent Rhys Nolan, the details of the murder begin to eerily resemble the event that nearly ended her life. A silhouette of a man haunts her dreams, but there were only two people there that night—Lakin and her murderer. Is the phantom hero who pulled her from the water a delusion, or is he the only one who can unlock her dark memories?
Buried in a watery grave of lotuses, the victim calls out to Lakin, unearthing painful memories of what was stolen from her that fateful night. For those that played a part, it’s now time to answer for their sins.
Her own.
As she embarks on a new case, working closely with Special Agent Rhys Nolan, the details of the murder begin to eerily resemble the event that nearly ended her life. A silhouette of a man haunts her dreams, but there were only two people there that night—Lakin and her murderer. Is the phantom hero who pulled her from the water a delusion, or is he the only one who can unlock her dark memories?
Buried in a watery grave of lotuses, the victim calls out to Lakin, unearthing painful memories of what was stolen from her that fateful night. For those that played a part, it’s now time to answer for their sins.
First published April 30, 2019
About the author
Trisha Wolfe
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USA Today bestselling romantic thriller author. From an early age, Trisha Wolfe dreamed up fictional worlds and characters and was accused of talking to herself. Today, she lives in South Carolina with her family and writes full time, using her fictional worlds as an excuse to continue talking to herself.
http://amazon.com/author/trishawolfe
Visit My Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/trishawolfea...
Visit My Facebook Readers Group: The Lair
https://www.facebook.com/groups/14186...
Visit My Website
http://TrishaWolfe.com
Sign Up For My VIP List
http://bit.ly/36HEPtP
USA Today bestselling romantic thriller author. From an early age, Trisha Wolfe dreamed up fictional worlds and characters and was accused of talking to herself. Today, she lives in South Carolina with her family and writes full time, using her fictional worlds as an excuse to continue talking to herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
April 20, 2019
“The lies we tell ourselves so that we can cope with our insignificant existence, to make us feel more meaningful in this life, aren’t the same as a tailored lie meant to deceive another person.”
Trisha Wolfe is one of those authors that from the minute you finish reading a book of hers, you feel thoroughly schooled. You develop this type of knowledge that you had no idea you were craving and it forces you to look at things differently. Your mind is constantly at work and by the time you’re half way through, you will have no idea which way is up and you’ll love that.
It’s been nearly four years since a tragedy has wreaked havoc on crime writer Lakin’s life. Now a partner with an FBI’s cold case agent, she’s made it her mission to get justice for the ones who no longer have a voice. But with every new lead on a case, her past is somehow connected and the killer is still on the loose. Will Lakin be able to solve the brutal mystery and her own?
Without delving too much into the story, I have to say that this author took us on a psychological turmoil that was hauntingly breathtaking at times with the clearest visual one’s mind can conjure. You felt for the characters and you wanted justice for the deceased because they deserved it and then some. I really liked that the main characters both had difficult pasts and they had this sort of kindred spirit they found in each other. You were immediately connected to them and I loved seeing their protectiveness with each other.
If you love psychological thrillers, then I think you should give this one a try. Trisha Wolfe will definitely have you hooked with the search for a killer.
April 20, 2019
LOTUS EFFECT: Is a full length standalone suspenseful novel by Trisha Wolfe, flits between past and present.
As Lakin Hale embarks on a new cold case the similarities have her reliving her own cold case, when she was left for dead, dumped like garbage in a lake, stabbed numerous times, her killer was never caught. Her memories never fully recovered after her ordeal, with no idea why she was targeted, or who the perpetrator was or even looked like. She knows better than anyone that the first few hours in a murder investigation are the most crucial.
Her recovery took on a new journey than the one she'd set out to take, instead of completing her major as a psychologist, she now has a new identity and is a true crime writer working on cases alongside her field partner Special Agent Rhys Nolan.
Solving cold cases brings a measure of sanity to my otherwise disturbed and unruly world. It gives me a sense of control.
An intricate unique tale where the suspense had me guessing throughout, questioning everything like Lakin herself, putting the pieces of the puzzle together as new information comes our way. Twists and turns with nail biting moments.
* Teasers used are off the authors FB page *
May 3, 2019
Oh my gaaawd!!! This book is one twisted, suspense filled story that kept me on the edge of my seat and refused to let me set it aside for even a moment!
Four years ago Lakin Hale died among the dark water and tangled stems of a lotus pond. When she awakens in the hospital she has no memory of the attack just blurred images of a red lotus and a faceless man.
When her case goes cold, she reaches out to FBI agent Rhys Nolan to help her continue the investigation. With disappointment, they must face that there are no new leads but their time together opens the door for a partnership in which they begin to solve other cases that have sat unsolved for too long. When their newest case has eerie semblances to her own, Lakin and Rhys dig deep to find what the connection might be.
Despite the devastation of her past, Lakin is resilient and strong. At least on the surface. Underneath, she battles for control over her murky memories and her obsession with the need to find, if not peace, then at least a sense of closure.
”I was found on the lake’s muddy bank. That dirt never washed off. By the time I left for good, I was the mud.”
Even though there were times Rhys felt more a secondary character, I absolutely loved him! He was such a huge support for Larkin throughout the investigation. He always seemed to know what she was thinking or what she needed and she found comfort in his ability to do so.
While this story isn’t a heavy romance, it certainly has enough in it to amp up the emotional element. Without Rhys’ point of view it was hard to really know him or his feelings, but this author portrayed him in the most perfect way - while Larkin might have been a bit blind to his feelings, the reader can pick up on them as the story progressed.
”D+mn right I’m jealous of him. Because I want to be the one who saves you.”
My mind is still in a wonderful whirl of emotion having concluded this amazing book! So many twist and turns that I absolutely never saw coming. There are layers upon layers built within the plot and the most wonderful and amazing of twist at the very end that had me fighting back tears. Because we all need to believe in the unbelievable at times.
I know I’m going to be thinking about this story for a while and enjoying it as I do.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Four years ago Lakin Hale died among the dark water and tangled stems of a lotus pond. When she awakens in the hospital she has no memory of the attack just blurred images of a red lotus and a faceless man.
When her case goes cold, she reaches out to FBI agent Rhys Nolan to help her continue the investigation. With disappointment, they must face that there are no new leads but their time together opens the door for a partnership in which they begin to solve other cases that have sat unsolved for too long. When their newest case has eerie semblances to her own, Lakin and Rhys dig deep to find what the connection might be.
Despite the devastation of her past, Lakin is resilient and strong. At least on the surface. Underneath, she battles for control over her murky memories and her obsession with the need to find, if not peace, then at least a sense of closure.
”I was found on the lake’s muddy bank. That dirt never washed off. By the time I left for good, I was the mud.”
Even though there were times Rhys felt more a secondary character, I absolutely loved him! He was such a huge support for Larkin throughout the investigation. He always seemed to know what she was thinking or what she needed and she found comfort in his ability to do so.
While this story isn’t a heavy romance, it certainly has enough in it to amp up the emotional element. Without Rhys’ point of view it was hard to really know him or his feelings, but this author portrayed him in the most perfect way - while Larkin might have been a bit blind to his feelings, the reader can pick up on them as the story progressed.
”D+mn right I’m jealous of him. Because I want to be the one who saves you.”
My mind is still in a wonderful whirl of emotion having concluded this amazing book! So many twist and turns that I absolutely never saw coming. There are layers upon layers built within the plot and the most wonderful and amazing of twist at the very end that had me fighting back tears. Because we all need to believe in the unbelievable at times.
I know I’m going to be thinking about this story for a while and enjoying it as I do.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
September 2, 2022
This was a solid thriller, but definitely not really a romance. There was a romance, but it took a back seat to the mystery the hero and heroine were trying to solve. Lakin is a true crime writer who is still traumatized from her own kidnapping that was never solved. She helps a detective research and investigate cold cases and writes books about them. Her newest crime, though, has eerie similarities to her own. This book follows them investigating the crime and I was definitely intrigued the whole time! There were some twists I didn't expect and I was invested in Lakin's story. The romance wasn't super developed and was a little lackluster to me, but that wasn't the main focus of the book. Overall it was good!
April 22, 2020
"Envy is a powerful and debilitating emotion. Stunting, all consuming. Jealousy can twist you into a gnarled creature, bent on self-destruction."
Okay so, Lotus Effect was a fun crime novel! By the time I had finished the book, I wanted to officially become a true crime detective too. But what's new there? Usually when I'm reading crime-type books, the redundant details drive me insane. But the way this novel flowed together really hit the mark for me! I was all around very impressed, as this is my first Trisha Wolfe book.
I think my most favorite thing about the book was the fact that the romance didn't over power the story line. Yeah, it was there. But it was evenly spread out and not piled onto us. A lot of time we read these types of books and all they care to tell us is about the romance. But the author did a great job at giving us details to the actual crimes going on, not the romance that is there. That was refreshing for me.
The writing was great. Trisha has a great sense of poetic writing. Not only that, the mixture of the past and present was legit built into the story in the best way. Getting a taste here and there really helped build up the suspense through out the story.
"The impending doom is where fear lives. It thrives in that dark place, like how moss grows on the shaded side of a tree. All that we fear harbors in the shadows. A nameless, faceless monster. That’s why, this time, the message has to be brought into the light."
I know that a lot of crime novels can drone on and on. They can speak on every single detail ever brought up. But if you're looking to break into that genre-- I think that the Lotus Effect would be a great one to ease you into it. The story line was original, the writing was fantastic, and the mystery aspect was excellent.
Okay so, Lotus Effect was a fun crime novel! By the time I had finished the book, I wanted to officially become a true crime detective too. But what's new there? Usually when I'm reading crime-type books, the redundant details drive me insane. But the way this novel flowed together really hit the mark for me! I was all around very impressed, as this is my first Trisha Wolfe book.
I think my most favorite thing about the book was the fact that the romance didn't over power the story line. Yeah, it was there. But it was evenly spread out and not piled onto us. A lot of time we read these types of books and all they care to tell us is about the romance. But the author did a great job at giving us details to the actual crimes going on, not the romance that is there. That was refreshing for me.
The writing was great. Trisha has a great sense of poetic writing. Not only that, the mixture of the past and present was legit built into the story in the best way. Getting a taste here and there really helped build up the suspense through out the story.
"The impending doom is where fear lives. It thrives in that dark place, like how moss grows on the shaded side of a tree. All that we fear harbors in the shadows. A nameless, faceless monster. That’s why, this time, the message has to be brought into the light."
I know that a lot of crime novels can drone on and on. They can speak on every single detail ever brought up. But if you're looking to break into that genre-- I think that the Lotus Effect would be a great one to ease you into it. The story line was original, the writing was fantastic, and the mystery aspect was excellent.
April 23, 2019
GAH!!! I started reading my ARC of Lotus Effect at 9:30 in the morning and finished it at 3 pm. FREAKIN AMAZING. I want more. I want it all! Why aren’t you writing all day every day Trisha Wolfe? #GREEDY #ILOVEYOU Now I need to wrap my head around a review to do this justice. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⭐️⭐️Review ⭐️⭐️
It is with an emotionally invested heart and a blown mind that I recommend this book! My God, author Trisha Wolfe has handed in one hell of a captivating read. Her writing style, storytelling, and character perspective are so engrossingly astounding. Why Wolfe isn't on the New York Times bestseller list or any other for that matter is beyond me.
Crime writer, Laken Hale and Special Agent Rhys Nolan work together to solve cold cases. This duo is a crime drama readers dream. Smart, realistic and absolutely engrossing is their chemistry and flow.
Lotus Effect is told in the past and present with so many abrupt twists and turns I was glued from start to finish. Truly
One of my top reads of 2019.
~Tanja
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⭐️⭐️Review ⭐️⭐️
It is with an emotionally invested heart and a blown mind that I recommend this book! My God, author Trisha Wolfe has handed in one hell of a captivating read. Her writing style, storytelling, and character perspective are so engrossingly astounding. Why Wolfe isn't on the New York Times bestseller list or any other for that matter is beyond me.
Crime writer, Laken Hale and Special Agent Rhys Nolan work together to solve cold cases. This duo is a crime drama readers dream. Smart, realistic and absolutely engrossing is their chemistry and flow.
Lotus Effect is told in the past and present with so many abrupt twists and turns I was glued from start to finish. Truly
One of my top reads of 2019.
~Tanja
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July 2, 2022
This one was crazy, I didn't expect that end.
I thought it will be something more like 50 romance and 50 crime/mystery but that was not the case here at all. It is more thriller/crime-solving/mystery and I was there for it. While in other books the missing romance would have bothered me, here it was not the case because the subject and the crime that needed to be solved, were so interesting and kept me here all the time waiting to read what is going on and what is next.
Everything was well thought and the mystery was there keeping me interested, which I never thought a crime or thriller book could do. I wish we got a little bit more of them together, they were so cute together.
From 80% it was so crazy, the twists, and don't get me starting on the end. I won't spoil it. It was an amazing ride, finished it in 1 day I couldn't put it down.
I thought it will be something more like 50 romance and 50 crime/mystery but that was not the case here at all. It is more thriller/crime-solving/mystery and I was there for it. While in other books the missing romance would have bothered me, here it was not the case because the subject and the crime that needed to be solved, were so interesting and kept me here all the time waiting to read what is going on and what is next.
Everything was well thought and the mystery was there keeping me interested, which I never thought a crime or thriller book could do. I wish we got a little bit more of them together, they were so cute together.
From 80% it was so crazy, the twists, and don't get me starting on the end. I won't spoil it. It was an amazing ride, finished it in 1 day I couldn't put it down.
January 21, 2021
"If a girl dies in a lake and no one is around to see, is she truly dead?"
Sono super onorata di recensire in anteprima il nuovo romanzo di Trisha Wolfe, conosciuta principalmente per il suo duet Darkly, Madly (che ho adorato tanto). Qui abbiamo un thriller psicologico che nonostante, come ha già annunciato l'autrice, è un po' commerciale, ma ne vale comunque la pena, perchè è una storia orchestrata in un bel modo, nonostante si, sia un po' prevedibile (nel senso che io avevo già capito chi fosse il colpevole più o meno sin dall'inizio).
I personaggi sono forti, Lakin dopo aver subìto un attacco quando andava ancora al college, ed essere stata lasciata mezza morta in questo lago, diventa una scrittrice di romanzi true crime e aiuta l'FBI con i cold cases - i casi mai risolti. E uno di questi è proprio il suo.
Qui è affiancata dal rigido ma tanto hot Rhys, che è il suo partner e formano davvero una bella coppia. Rhys l'ho visto sin dall'inizio come il porto sicuro di Lakin, si vede che stravede per lei e vuole proteggerla dal mondo, l'ho adorato.
Come sempre, Trisha si distingue per una scrittura complessa ma fluida allo stesso tempo, che mi ha tenuta compagnia per svariati giorni, e riesce sempre a creare storie degne di memoria.
Buddy read with Carmen 💕
*ARC provided in exchange of an honest review*
April 19, 2019
Trisha Wolfe has a poetic way with words that no other author I read has. Her writing is completely unique and utterly captivating, and I wait with bated breath for every book she writes. Lotus Effect was everything I hoped it would be. Trisha kept me guessing right until the end, the story twisting and weaving its way into my heart. I was on the edge of my seat for most of the book, flipping pages faster as the suspense ramped up. I won't give anything away about the plot, but I will say that if you love psychological thrillers, you should read this one. And then, if you've not read any of Trisha's books, you should go back and read all her other ones!
July 15, 2021
♡ Thriller
♡ True-crime writer
♡ Unsolved murder
I love Trisha Wolfe and will read anything she writes, even if it isn't strictly a romance and in a genre I thought I didn't like, so here we are.
Thrillers, especially ones where the main character is in the FBI don't really interest me, but knowing this is written by one of my favorite authors, along with the premise made me pick this one up when the audiobook went on sale on Audible. And I wasn't disappointed.
To be fair, I don't read a lot of thrillers so it doesn't take much to impress me, but I found this book to be so interesting and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Not to mention, I LOVED the romance, even though this isn't really considered one. I found it interesting that the heroine was investigating her own murder and I needed to find out the full story. I could not put this one down.
April 27, 2019
Trisha Wolfe is queen of psychological romance as her books are pure genius. They are half poetry and half mindeffs. I loved Lotus Effect as we are thrust upon a story that is so spinetingling fantastic that I read with my heart beating fast and my eyes consuming every word.
Without giving away any spoilers, Lakin and Hale were so engrossing. I was sucked into their connection while also digesting the mystery surrounding Lakin and her past. I loved how fast-paced this story was and Wolfe's outstanding ability to paint vivid pictures with just her words and passion. I loved this story and can't wait for another one of this author's psychological stories. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
Without giving away any spoilers, Lakin and Hale were so engrossing. I was sucked into their connection while also digesting the mystery surrounding Lakin and her past. I loved how fast-paced this story was and Wolfe's outstanding ability to paint vivid pictures with just her words and passion. I loved this story and can't wait for another one of this author's psychological stories. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
May 31, 2019
3.5 ⭐️’s
Lakin Hale was brutally attacked and left for dead a few years back. Defying all odds she survived, moved, changed her name and now writes true crime novels. She has teamed up with FBI agent Ryhs to investigate and try to solve cold case murders.
In the beginning, every chapter flips between “Then” and “Now” and it was confusing and felt pretty disjointed. Each chapter is pretty short, so just as I was sinking my teeth into the story for that chapter, it would end and flip to a different period. Then I would have to reorient myself, start to sink my teeth in again and the chapter would end and the next chapter would flip back. Then, Now, Then, Now, Stop, Start, Then, Now.....omg, I was dizzy. 🥴 🥴 This gets better toward the end of the book, but the first half was challenging.
So why did I stick with the book? Well, there was a really good mystery at the heart of this story and I wanted to know who attempted to kill the heroine. I love a good “who-dun-it” and there were some really obvious people that I ruled out right away and I just couldn’t figure out the guilty party.
This is told strictly from the heroine POV, so you really don’t get to know Rhys at all. Plus, if you are expecting a big romance story you will be disappointed. The H/h share their first kiss around 80% and the bedroom scene that happens after that is pretty tame. This story revolves around the mystery of who killed some females and the romance aspect is very minimal.
Overall, I’m going to give this a 3.5. The flow of the book pretty much sucked for me. However, I’m a good detective and I psyched myself out and completely went down a different path than the author ended up taking. So I was actually pretty surprised by the outcome. And, there were some unexpected psychological twists and turns that kept it interesting. So, for me, the overall story was good and outweighs the bad and confusing flow.
Quotes:
“The voice of the victim, as well as the voice of those closest to the victim, are the ones who direct my narrative.”
“All that we fear harbors in the shadows.”
“What’s worse than never solving a cold case and finding the killer? Finding the killer and watching him roam free.”
“The lies we tell ourselves are the hardest to see.”
“Secrets are only able to haunt when they stay buried. Like a ghost crossing over into the light, once they’re exposed, all that’s left is peace.”
“We cannot carve our lives into sections. The good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly moments; one cannot exist without the other”
“To only rely on logical explanations can be a desolate existence.”
Lakin Hale was brutally attacked and left for dead a few years back. Defying all odds she survived, moved, changed her name and now writes true crime novels. She has teamed up with FBI agent Ryhs to investigate and try to solve cold case murders.
In the beginning, every chapter flips between “Then” and “Now” and it was confusing and felt pretty disjointed. Each chapter is pretty short, so just as I was sinking my teeth into the story for that chapter, it would end and flip to a different period. Then I would have to reorient myself, start to sink my teeth in again and the chapter would end and the next chapter would flip back. Then, Now, Then, Now, Stop, Start, Then, Now.....omg, I was dizzy. 🥴 🥴 This gets better toward the end of the book, but the first half was challenging.
So why did I stick with the book? Well, there was a really good mystery at the heart of this story and I wanted to know who attempted to kill the heroine. I love a good “who-dun-it” and there were some really obvious people that I ruled out right away and I just couldn’t figure out the guilty party.
This is told strictly from the heroine POV, so you really don’t get to know Rhys at all. Plus, if you are expecting a big romance story you will be disappointed. The H/h share their first kiss around 80% and the bedroom scene that happens after that is pretty tame. This story revolves around the mystery of who killed some females and the romance aspect is very minimal.
Overall, I’m going to give this a 3.5. The flow of the book pretty much sucked for me. However, I’m a good detective and I psyched myself out and completely went down a different path than the author ended up taking. So I was actually pretty surprised by the outcome. And, there were some unexpected psychological twists and turns that kept it interesting. So, for me, the overall story was good and outweighs the bad and confusing flow.
Quotes:
“The voice of the victim, as well as the voice of those closest to the victim, are the ones who direct my narrative.”
“All that we fear harbors in the shadows.”
“What’s worse than never solving a cold case and finding the killer? Finding the killer and watching him roam free.”
“The lies we tell ourselves are the hardest to see.”
“Secrets are only able to haunt when they stay buried. Like a ghost crossing over into the light, once they’re exposed, all that’s left is peace.”
“We cannot carve our lives into sections. The good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly moments; one cannot exist without the other”
“To only rely on logical explanations can be a desolate existence.”
September 22, 2021
Si tarde tanto en leer Lotus Effect no fue porque no me estuviera interesando la historia, sino debido a que el estilo de la autora en esta ocasion no me parecio tan ligero, con eso no me refiero a que el libro sea aburrido, solo a que me tomo un poco de tiempo familiarizarme con la pluma de Trisha Wolfe.
La premisa es intrigante desde un comienzo, sobre todo porque conocemos de primera mano lo que vive la victima de los crimenes que se narran en la historia, y aunque no conecte al 100% con Lakin, si que es indudable que me gusto mucho como protagonista.
Los diferentes saltos temporales tambien fueron un detalle muy positivo, me resulto muy novedosa la forma en la que lo planteo la escritora, le da mucha originalidad a la novela.
En cuanto al giro del final, no puedo mas que reconocer que fue magistral, no lo vi venir en ningun momento, y pese a que me falto que se describiera mas de el desenlace antes de llegar a el epilogo, considero que la lectura tuvo un buen cierre y que no quedaron preguntas sin resolver.
En conclusion, segunda experiencia con Trisha Wolfe y fue igual de satisfactoria que mi estreno con ella hace un tiempo. Seguramente volvere a leer mas de su trabajo, vale mucho la pena.
3.5 Estrellas!
April 12, 2019
Another fantastic book from Trisha Wolfe! I love being swept away with her words.
Lotus Effect was a carefully woven web of deceit, intrigue, suspense with a smidgen of romance.
Lakin and Rhys were intelligent and captivating.
Definitely a must read for 2019.
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters~ 5/5
Secondary Characters~ 5/5
The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Fantastic
Series~ Standalone
Source~ Kindle eBook - ARC for honest review
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Lotus Effect was a carefully woven web of deceit, intrigue, suspense with a smidgen of romance.
Lakin and Rhys were intelligent and captivating.
Definitely a must read for 2019.
~BREAKDOWN OF RATINGS~
Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters~ 5/5
Secondary Characters~ 5/5
The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Fantastic
Series~ Standalone
Source~ Kindle eBook - ARC for honest review
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
October 15, 2020
I absolutely love psychological thriller books with a bit of romance and this book was about Hale who is a true crime writer and she solves cold cases with her partner Agen Rhys Nolan but they never couldn't solve her own case...where she dies. The new case brings back memories about her own case and she sees similarities between the victim's murder and her own. Hale was stabbed and left to die in the lake, surrounded by Lotus and that's all she remembers...she knew she died...atleast for some seconds but then someone saved her and after that no one could find her killer. Year later, now Rhys and Hale try to find the murder of the new case they got but the murder of the Victim is same as how Hale was killed.
This story was creepy af, the murderer was easy to guess for me ( maybe Cuz i read many true crime stories) 😂 but the reason behind his killing was kinda shocking. The romance between Rhys and Hale was spot on, the chemistry between them was fire and their relationship didn't overshadow the thriller part. The new secrets that revealed were also really unexpected. This book focused more on the crime than the relationship and i did kinda wanted to know more about Rhys's character Cuz he barely had any dialog and we know nothing about him.....for a long time i suspected him too 😐💀😂. I also thought at the end it ll show that all of this is a story written by the killer himself 😂😂🤦♂️. But anyway, i read it at night and it was scary. There were many unnecessary details but even tho those were unnecessary i did like how the author included Psychology stuff. I would have given it 4 stars but as i said the killer was too easy to guess for me. I want to talk more about this book but it ll give away Wayy too much 😂.
This story was creepy af, the murderer was easy to guess for me ( maybe Cuz i read many true crime stories) 😂 but the reason behind his killing was kinda shocking. The romance between Rhys and Hale was spot on, the chemistry between them was fire and their relationship didn't overshadow the thriller part. The new secrets that revealed were also really unexpected. This book focused more on the crime than the relationship and i did kinda wanted to know more about Rhys's character Cuz he barely had any dialog and we know nothing about him.....for a long time i suspected him too 😐💀😂. I also thought at the end it ll show that all of this is a story written by the killer himself 😂😂🤦♂️. But anyway, i read it at night and it was scary. There were many unnecessary details but even tho those were unnecessary i did like how the author included Psychology stuff. I would have given it 4 stars but as i said the killer was too easy to guess for me. I want to talk more about this book but it ll give away Wayy too much 😂.
April 12, 2019
I was going to wait till I had done another read through before reviewing as like Trisha's other books this was mind blowing with twists and turns you don't see coming, but I decided this review couldn't wait as this book needs to be shouted from the rooftops and read by everyone I know.
This book is another masterpiece by Trisha that will have you questioning your own sanity and not getting the full picture till the very end. There isn't a lot I can say about this book without giving key details away, so I'll just say this:
ONE CLICK IMMEDIATELY, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!
This book is another masterpiece by Trisha that will have you questioning your own sanity and not getting the full picture till the very end. There isn't a lot I can say about this book without giving key details away, so I'll just say this:
ONE CLICK IMMEDIATELY, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!!
May 5, 2019
If a girl dies in a lake and no one is around to see, is she truly dead?
Trisha Wolfe is an author who completely won me over with her Born, Darkly novel, so when I saw she was writing another dark novel involving psychology and twisted killers I knew I wanted to read it.
I was really anticipating this book, but I told myself not to hype it to much, so I don't end up disappointed. I should've known I have nothing to fear, because Ms. Wolfe is a damn fine writer. From the very first page I was in love with her writing. I think I fell in love with her mind, to be honest.
I think the story is also very original. Lakin Hale is a true crime writer who survived a terrible assault in her past; now she helps FBI solve cold cases. She has the perspective of the victim, because she died that night. And now she's on the other side, solving those murders. I think even she herself mentions in the novel how often the detective wants to ask the victim, the dead girl, and now she can do that with herself. However it proves to be somewhat difficult.
Another character I really enjoyed was Agent Nolan
To conclude, I don't want to give away anything more, I'll just suggest you read the book and experience the lotus effect.
Secrets are only able to haunt when they stay buried. Like a ghost crossing over into the light, once they're exposed, all that's left is peace.
April 13, 2019
Just finished reading it and staring at the ceiling like a dumb person because I have no idea how to review what I just went through with this book.
You’ll be pulled in from the first chapter because of the work and ways that the author has created it's just like watching a thriller movie and can't stop until the end.
There are many things going on and at times I thought I knew how it will end but no, I had no idea what was coming my way.
The suspense kept me on the edge till the last page.
More than loved it, a book based on psychological thriller and not so much on the romance (but honestly it really didn't need more than it has), brilliantly done from the writing style to crafting each character at perfection, a story about survival and overcoming the past so you can live your future.
””We are all connected. Through time and space, atoms and neurons. Villains and heroes. We’re all linked in a cosmic web, fighting to live. Fighting for truth.””
You’ll be pulled in from the first chapter because of the work and ways that the author has created it's just like watching a thriller movie and can't stop until the end.
There are many things going on and at times I thought I knew how it will end but no, I had no idea what was coming my way.
The suspense kept me on the edge till the last page.
More than loved it, a book based on psychological thriller and not so much on the romance (but honestly it really didn't need more than it has), brilliantly done from the writing style to crafting each character at perfection, a story about survival and overcoming the past so you can live your future.
””We are all connected. Through time and space, atoms and neurons. Villains and heroes. We’re all linked in a cosmic web, fighting to live. Fighting for truth.””
April 13, 2019
Wow, Lotus Effect was amazing. This book will keep you guessing until the final chapter. It is full of suspense with a ton of twists and turns. If you have read Trisha's books before you are well aware of how she captures you from page one and will have you reading the entire book in one sitting, because its that damn good. Lakin and Rhys will take you on twisted and dark adventure, that will keep you wanting more. Each page will give you just a little bit more of the puzzle. Perfect 5 star read!!
April 30, 2019
Another absolutely fantastic thriller by Trisha Wolfe. As I always am with her books I was sucked in from page one and literally sat reading the whole book in one sitting,the draw of Lakins story kept me flipping the pages,the mystery kept me glued. An amazing whodunnit that will leave you guessing right until the end. I suggest you go in blind with this one,don't read teasers,avoid reviews with spoilers and enjoy the ride! Trust me,your head will spin!
September 11, 2021
this was fine. nothing that really stands out. i initially picked it up because i was looking for a new romantic suspense story to read, however, this definitely prioritises the suspense over the romance. nothing wrong with that, it just wasnt what i was looking for, personally. but its a quick, easy-to-read story.
↠ 3 stars
↠ 3 stars
August 7, 2021
Lakin was such a flat protagonist. Go girl, give us nothing!
April 27, 2019
4.25 Stars
Survival
Closure
Perversion
Depravity
Those are the main themes of this complex romantic thriller, with an ending that had my heart racing.
Told from a sole POV, Lakin Hale (formerly Cynthia) is the victim of a horrific crime that nearly killed her. It is from her own unsolved mystery, that she begins to tell the stories of others. Pairing up with Rys Nolan from the FBI, the two investigate unsolved deaths and in their research, Lakin write the victim's story.
Flipping from past to present, we learn of the night that changed Lakin forever, and how she tries to move forward with her life, given others the closure that she lacks.
In the past I can say, with no uncertain terms that I hated Drew. I hated what he did to Lakin. I hated that he didn't seem to care about her near-death experience. I hated that he seemed to walk away unscathed given his relationship with a student. And with all of that, I hated that Lakin was so fixed on what happened with him. I wanted her to rise above it all and show him that she was unaffected. But that's not how things played out.
In the present, I liked that Lakin and Rhys worked so hard to solve these crimes. To give families the closure they are so desperate for. I thought the two of them worked well as a team, so I wondered if there would be some romantic connection between them (I'll leave that as a mystery).
"Damn right I'm jealous of him. Because I want to be the one who saves you."
Although I wanted to smack Lakin for her stupidity in keeping secrets from Rhys, it made for a very intense ending to the story. It was definitely disturbing to see the mystery of her past revealed and highlighted the level of psychopath she was dealing with.
While some of the elements in this story felt rushed, I liked the overall story, a mystery that kept me guessing.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
Survival
Closure
Perversion
Depravity
Those are the main themes of this complex romantic thriller, with an ending that had my heart racing.
Told from a sole POV, Lakin Hale (formerly Cynthia) is the victim of a horrific crime that nearly killed her. It is from her own unsolved mystery, that she begins to tell the stories of others. Pairing up with Rys Nolan from the FBI, the two investigate unsolved deaths and in their research, Lakin write the victim's story.
Flipping from past to present, we learn of the night that changed Lakin forever, and how she tries to move forward with her life, given others the closure that she lacks.
In the past I can say, with no uncertain terms that I hated Drew. I hated what he did to Lakin. I hated that he didn't seem to care about her near-death experience. I hated that he seemed to walk away unscathed given his relationship with a student. And with all of that, I hated that Lakin was so fixed on what happened with him. I wanted her to rise above it all and show him that she was unaffected. But that's not how things played out.
In the present, I liked that Lakin and Rhys worked so hard to solve these crimes. To give families the closure they are so desperate for. I thought the two of them worked well as a team, so I wondered if there would be some romantic connection between them (I'll leave that as a mystery).
"Damn right I'm jealous of him. Because I want to be the one who saves you."
Although I wanted to smack Lakin for her stupidity in keeping secrets from Rhys, it made for a very intense ending to the story. It was definitely disturbing to see the mystery of her past revealed and highlighted the level of psychopath she was dealing with.
While some of the elements in this story felt rushed, I liked the overall story, a mystery that kept me guessing.
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
April 30, 2019
Thrilling from start to finish, I couldn’t put this book down. Trauma has changed and shaped Lakin Hale’s life. Now, as a true crime author working along side Special Agent Rhys Nolan of the FBI, her past and present are colliding...or are they? When the truth is unknown, how do we know what to believe?
Wolfe delivers a perfectly crafted story. Delicious tension, mesmerizing mystery, flawed and endearing characters, and so much more. Each piece of the puzzle, building the mystery. What was real and what wasn’t? With danger lurking just out of sight, I was on the edge of my seat. The suspense and my desperate need for answers had me tearing through the pages. Wolfe definitely kept me guessing until the end.
May 1, 2019
" I'm an open ending. I hate open endings".
Trisha Wolfe has blown me away once again with this book! I'd been dying to get my hands on it ever since she announced her plans for this book and it was definitely worth the wait!!
Lotus Effect is a little different from her usual books, in the sense that it is a psychological thriller more than a dark romance, but the overall atmosphere and the lyrical quality of Trisha Wolfe's writing remains the same and that's my favourite part!
I won't dive deep into the story as it's best to go in blind. The book is told solely from the viewpoint of Lakin Hale, once a promising psychology student before the brutal attack that left her for the dead among the lotus blooms in the lake. The attack not only took away her memories of the night, but also a part of her identity as well. She is now a true crime writer, who works on cold cases with FBI special agent Rhys Nolan. But despite solving many cases together, their first cold case - her attack remains unsolved.
But what happens when they come across a case eerily similar to her attack? Is it her imagination or is the killer back again? Who is it and what happened that night? To get answers to all her questions she must face her painful past to move forward.
"Real memory or recovered memory? You might think: what's the difference? A memory is a memory."
My favourite thing about psychological thrillers is that through the course of the book, we as readers must decide how much to rely on the narrator's recollection of events and story to see the big picture. How much is true and how much is what they think is true? Puzzle clues are masterfully hidden in Lotus Effect for both us and Lakin to find out. We experience her journey along with her.
"Humans were designed to forget. Our brains are not meant to retain every day of our lives. It's the only way we can come in terms with and reconcile our past; accept the life we've lived."
The attraction between Rhys and Lakin was also beautiful, but doesn't overtake the plot. I love how he supported her and understood her without judgement. I just wish we had more background on their working relationship! I would love to read a novella showing the past cases that they've solved?( Hint hint ;) )
"It's torturous, this confusing combination that I've never felt near Rhys before - only it feels as if it's not unfamiliar; like past and present colliding; the way it's always been."
So what are you waiting for? Go read this book! You'll definitely not be able to put it down once you start!
Trisha Wolfe has blown me away once again with this book! I'd been dying to get my hands on it ever since she announced her plans for this book and it was definitely worth the wait!!
Lotus Effect is a little different from her usual books, in the sense that it is a psychological thriller more than a dark romance, but the overall atmosphere and the lyrical quality of Trisha Wolfe's writing remains the same and that's my favourite part!
I won't dive deep into the story as it's best to go in blind. The book is told solely from the viewpoint of Lakin Hale, once a promising psychology student before the brutal attack that left her for the dead among the lotus blooms in the lake. The attack not only took away her memories of the night, but also a part of her identity as well. She is now a true crime writer, who works on cold cases with FBI special agent Rhys Nolan. But despite solving many cases together, their first cold case - her attack remains unsolved.
But what happens when they come across a case eerily similar to her attack? Is it her imagination or is the killer back again? Who is it and what happened that night? To get answers to all her questions she must face her painful past to move forward.
"Real memory or recovered memory? You might think: what's the difference? A memory is a memory."
My favourite thing about psychological thrillers is that through the course of the book, we as readers must decide how much to rely on the narrator's recollection of events and story to see the big picture. How much is true and how much is what they think is true? Puzzle clues are masterfully hidden in Lotus Effect for both us and Lakin to find out. We experience her journey along with her.
"Humans were designed to forget. Our brains are not meant to retain every day of our lives. It's the only way we can come in terms with and reconcile our past; accept the life we've lived."
The attraction between Rhys and Lakin was also beautiful, but doesn't overtake the plot. I love how he supported her and understood her without judgement. I just wish we had more background on their working relationship! I would love to read a novella showing the past cases that they've solved?( Hint hint ;) )
"It's torturous, this confusing combination that I've never felt near Rhys before - only it feels as if it's not unfamiliar; like past and present colliding; the way it's always been."
So what are you waiting for? Go read this book! You'll definitely not be able to put it down once you start!
April 14, 2019
I’ve got nothing. Absolutely nothing. 🤷🏼♀️
You know when you read or watch something and you literally get chills? You don’t know how to explain your thoughts and feelings? Like whatever you say will just be a wasted breath because you will never do it enough justice? That is Lotus Effect. The thrill you so desperately needed.
The way this book is written is a haunted, deep masterpiece. The way Trisha writes is different to what I normally read. There’s no instalove, pointless drama, or boring sex scenes. There’s angst, pain and raw feels. She doesn’t hold back on anything and that’s what makes her so wonderful to read.
This books flicks between past and present - this woman is helping an FBI agent solve cold cases, whilst trying to figure out her own - and it’s exactly how it needed to be. You’ll still miss vital details; Trisha’s books always need to be read more than once because they are so twisty and flowing with information.
You’ll think you know what’s going on, but let me tell you, you’ll still be surprised because that’s just what Trisha does. Surprises you with yet another twist, another fail, another triumph. She writes the most wonderful psychological words; words that make you think and wonder until the very last page. It’s utter perfection and I’m so happy I read it.
This review is based on an ARC
You know when you read or watch something and you literally get chills? You don’t know how to explain your thoughts and feelings? Like whatever you say will just be a wasted breath because you will never do it enough justice? That is Lotus Effect. The thrill you so desperately needed.
The way this book is written is a haunted, deep masterpiece. The way Trisha writes is different to what I normally read. There’s no instalove, pointless drama, or boring sex scenes. There’s angst, pain and raw feels. She doesn’t hold back on anything and that’s what makes her so wonderful to read.
This books flicks between past and present - this woman is helping an FBI agent solve cold cases, whilst trying to figure out her own - and it’s exactly how it needed to be. You’ll still miss vital details; Trisha’s books always need to be read more than once because they are so twisty and flowing with information.
You’ll think you know what’s going on, but let me tell you, you’ll still be surprised because that’s just what Trisha does. Surprises you with yet another twist, another fail, another triumph. She writes the most wonderful psychological words; words that make you think and wonder until the very last page. It’s utter perfection and I’m so happy I read it.
This review is based on an ARC
April 30, 2019
“Life is a twisted web of people and their actions.”
Lakin è una scrittrice di casi irrisolti, lavora con l’FBI a risolvere casi ormai chiusi e a dare il giusto valore alle vittime di questi omicidi. Una tematica molto vicina perchè quattro anni prima era stata lei stessa vittima di omicidio.
Di quella terribile serata ricorda la sensazione dell’acqua nei polmoni, la discesa verso il fondo del lago, le radici di fiori di loto che l’abbracciavano e stritolavano il corpo ma non altro.
Non ricorda chi l’abbia sferrato otto coltellate all’addome, chi l’abbia lasciata cadere nel lago o chi l’abbia portata fuori da esso.
Quattro anni prima Lakin era una normale studentessa universitaria prossima a laurearsi in psicologica con le sue paure e conflitti personali, oggi non le è rimasto niente se non il lavoro e Rhys, l’unico con cui ha un rapporto interpersonale oltre ai genitori.
Rhys è il suo partner a lavoro, un protettore nato, un uomo fatto per l’azione, per difendere il prossimo ma a causa di un incidente ha reinventato la sua vita e dedicato alle indagini. È un uomo carismatico, ermetico che non spreca parole per dire l’ovvio ed Lakin è il suo punto debole, la capisce e protegge come può. Loro due hanno una sintonia e complicità unica e quando mi hanno fatta fremere durante la lettura, da far venire l’orticaria, ma leggere la scena sotto la poggia ha dato giustizia a tutta quell’attesa.
Un nuovo caso porta i due nella città natale di Lakin, le indagini portano a galla ricordi e particolari che riguardano e coinvolgo sempre più il caso di Lakin.
Dopo tutte le ricerche e gli anni trascorsi forse Lakin riuscirà ad avere delle risposte oppure la sua vita sarà di nuovo in pericolo...
Da quale fan di Trisha sono leggerò qualsiasi libro lei voglia scrivere e questo thriller psicologo ne è la prova. Nonostante il caso sia abbastanza semplice da risolvere, l’autrice ha reso la lettura enigmatica, ricercata nella caratterizzazione psicologica dei personaggi e interessante con i capitoli del passato che arricchivano la storia della protagonista.
Verso la fine ha aggiunto qualche particolare dark and twisted tipico della scrittrice, che ho riconosciuto ed apprezzato.
“The mind is the most powerful tool. But just like a tool, it can be sharpened and molded. It can be bent. It can be trained to believe almost anything.”
- ARC provided in exchange of an honest review -
Lakin è una scrittrice di casi irrisolti, lavora con l’FBI a risolvere casi ormai chiusi e a dare il giusto valore alle vittime di questi omicidi. Una tematica molto vicina perchè quattro anni prima era stata lei stessa vittima di omicidio.
Di quella terribile serata ricorda la sensazione dell’acqua nei polmoni, la discesa verso il fondo del lago, le radici di fiori di loto che l’abbracciavano e stritolavano il corpo ma non altro.
Non ricorda chi l’abbia sferrato otto coltellate all’addome, chi l’abbia lasciata cadere nel lago o chi l’abbia portata fuori da esso.
Quattro anni prima Lakin era una normale studentessa universitaria prossima a laurearsi in psicologica con le sue paure e conflitti personali, oggi non le è rimasto niente se non il lavoro e Rhys, l’unico con cui ha un rapporto interpersonale oltre ai genitori.
Rhys è il suo partner a lavoro, un protettore nato, un uomo fatto per l’azione, per difendere il prossimo ma a causa di un incidente ha reinventato la sua vita e dedicato alle indagini. È un uomo carismatico, ermetico che non spreca parole per dire l’ovvio ed Lakin è il suo punto debole, la capisce e protegge come può. Loro due hanno una sintonia e complicità unica e quando mi hanno fatta fremere durante la lettura, da far venire l’orticaria, ma leggere la scena sotto la poggia ha dato giustizia a tutta quell’attesa.
Un nuovo caso porta i due nella città natale di Lakin, le indagini portano a galla ricordi e particolari che riguardano e coinvolgo sempre più il caso di Lakin.
Dopo tutte le ricerche e gli anni trascorsi forse Lakin riuscirà ad avere delle risposte oppure la sua vita sarà di nuovo in pericolo...
Da quale fan di Trisha sono leggerò qualsiasi libro lei voglia scrivere e questo thriller psicologo ne è la prova. Nonostante il caso sia abbastanza semplice da risolvere, l’autrice ha reso la lettura enigmatica, ricercata nella caratterizzazione psicologica dei personaggi e interessante con i capitoli del passato che arricchivano la storia della protagonista.
Verso la fine ha aggiunto qualche particolare dark and twisted tipico della scrittrice, che ho riconosciuto ed apprezzato.
“The mind is the most powerful tool. But just like a tool, it can be sharpened and molded. It can be bent. It can be trained to believe almost anything.”
- ARC provided in exchange of an honest review -
May 4, 2019
My black heart bleeds for Lotus Effect. Trisha Wolfe has outdone herself with this one. She keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Waiting to find out what happened with baited breath. She has a way of drawing you into the story and holding on tight. These characters become a part of you and you NEED to know more. A psychological roller coaster that you never want to get off of.
April 30, 2019
This author is an absolute automatic one click for me. It’s hard not to find what she writes so utterly intriguing-but Lotus Effect was it’s own breed of five stars. If I could give it more, I would. Five stars is simply not enough to describe the greatness of this story. It’s a psychological thriller through and through, and the sophistication and knowledge of human behavior, true crime, and simple nature, has put the author in the absolute highest regard for me. I was truly amazed at the intelligence, research, finesse, and confidence that this author possessed throughout the writing of this novel-and there’s absolutely no doubt in my mind how much everyone else will love this book, as well.
I’m not going to summarize he book, because I’ll never do it justice, but I will give you a word of advice- do not read this book with the lights off. I made that mistake-and even at the end, I felt a prickling of my skin. The characters that this author created were simply so real-that I couldn’t guess what was happening next. My next piece of advice I’ll give you is to RUN and purchase it. You can’t miss out on having this book in your life. Dangers are lurking around every corner-and you need to experience the special way Trisha Wolfe weaves one of the most intricate stories I’ve ever read through a tangled mess of lotus roots submerged in the deepest of waters. Serious-skin tingles even hours after finishing!
I’m not going to summarize he book, because I’ll never do it justice, but I will give you a word of advice- do not read this book with the lights off. I made that mistake-and even at the end, I felt a prickling of my skin. The characters that this author created were simply so real-that I couldn’t guess what was happening next. My next piece of advice I’ll give you is to RUN and purchase it. You can’t miss out on having this book in your life. Dangers are lurking around every corner-and you need to experience the special way Trisha Wolfe weaves one of the most intricate stories I’ve ever read through a tangled mess of lotus roots submerged in the deepest of waters. Serious-skin tingles even hours after finishing!
May 2, 2019
Couldn't put it down!!!!
My black heart bleeds for Lotus Effect. Trisha Wolfe has outdone herself with this one. She keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Waiting to find out what happened with baited breath. She has a way of drawing you into the story and holding on tight. These characters become a part of you and you NEED to know more. A psychological roller coaster that you never want to get off of.
My black heart bleeds for Lotus Effect. Trisha Wolfe has outdone herself with this one. She keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Waiting to find out what happened with baited breath. She has a way of drawing you into the story and holding on tight. These characters become a part of you and you NEED to know more. A psychological roller coaster that you never want to get off of.
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