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A Gift for Dying
Nothing surprises Adam Brandt anymore. As a forensic psychologist, he's seen and heard everything.
That is, until he meets Kassie.
Because she claims to have a terrible gift - with one look into your eyes, she can see when and how you will die.
Adam doesn't believe her.
But then a serial killer starts wreaking havoc across the city, and only Kassie seems to know where he'll strike next.
Against all his intuition, Adam starts to think Kassie might be telling the truth.
He just doesn't realise how dangerous this trust might be . . .
That is, until he meets Kassie.
Because she claims to have a terrible gift - with one look into your eyes, she can see when and how you will die.
Adam doesn't believe her.
But then a serial killer starts wreaking havoc across the city, and only Kassie seems to know where he'll strike next.
Against all his intuition, Adam starts to think Kassie might be telling the truth.
He just doesn't realise how dangerous this trust might be . . .
468 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2019
365 people are currently reading
4579 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Arlidge
37 books4,236 followersM.J. Arlidge has worked in television for the last 15 years, specialising in high end drama production. Arlidge has produced a number of prime-time crime serials for ITV In the last five years, and is currently working on a major adaptation of The Last of the Mohicans for the BBC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 776 reviews
February 25, 2019
This is a standalone crime thriller from MJ Arlidge, dark and intense, set in a Chicago beset by the horrors of a serial killer running rampant, targeting those residing in supposedly safe areas of the city. The first victim is the young assistant state's attorney, Jacob Jones, whose fiancee is away. 15 year old Kassandra 'Kassie' Wotjcek, a troubled loner, skipping school where she feels like a fish out of water, burdened by the kind of gift that is more of a horror story. She avoids making eye contact with anyone if she can possibly get away with this, she can see more than she should, she sees what should be impossible, she sees when a person will die and how they will die. Kassie is pushed into a scenario where on the train she looks into Jones's eyes, and she sees his imminent death coming in the most desperately brutal and gruesome of ways. Kassie wants to warn him, but her actions has Jones wanting to get away from what seems like a unhinged crazy girl, only for his dismembered body to be found in the boot of his car by Chicago PD.
The high profile murder of a assistant state's attorney brings huge pressure, both political and media, on Detective Gabrielle Grey, leading the murder investigation. She and her team that includes Detective Jane Miller, hone in on Kassie as a possible suspect for the killing. Adam Brandt is a forensic psychologist is in a good place, he has a beautiful home and his artist wife, Faith, is close to giving birth to their much wanted first child after years of disappointment. Adam is called in to interview Kassie and get to the bottom of what lies behind her odd behaviours and actions. Kassie lets down her guard and tells him of her terrible abilities. Adam does not believe what she describes as being possible, so is Kassie hallucinating and experiencing mental health issues? Feeling a deep sense of compassion for her, he does want to help her. Whilst Adam has his doubts, Faith is more willing to entertain the idea that Kassie is speaking the truth. As the deranged psychopathic killer continues to murder, Kassie is the recurrent thread that the police see in their investigations, they are certain she is playing a part in the killings. As Adam finds himself oscillating between doubt and belief over Kassie, he finds his life unraveling in ways that he could never have forseen.
MJ Arlidge showcases his trademark elements of darkness present in his crime fiction in this standalone book. It is a bleak and atmospheric story, with hugely compelling central protagonist in the courageous and brave Kassie, a girl whose mother abandons her and the only person she is close to is her grandmother suffering from dementia. Adam is the very human psychologist who eventually begins to connect Kassie in his desire to help her and he gets caught up in her attempts to stop the killer. There is not much in the way of light and hope in this novel, but it is compulsive reading. There were times when I thought VI Warshawski, Paretsky's Chicago PI, would turn up to take care of and save Kassie, but no such luck! I know many readers will not like the supernatural aspects of this brilliant piece of crime fiction, so this is recommended to those who are more accepting of this in the storyline. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
The high profile murder of a assistant state's attorney brings huge pressure, both political and media, on Detective Gabrielle Grey, leading the murder investigation. She and her team that includes Detective Jane Miller, hone in on Kassie as a possible suspect for the killing. Adam Brandt is a forensic psychologist is in a good place, he has a beautiful home and his artist wife, Faith, is close to giving birth to their much wanted first child after years of disappointment. Adam is called in to interview Kassie and get to the bottom of what lies behind her odd behaviours and actions. Kassie lets down her guard and tells him of her terrible abilities. Adam does not believe what she describes as being possible, so is Kassie hallucinating and experiencing mental health issues? Feeling a deep sense of compassion for her, he does want to help her. Whilst Adam has his doubts, Faith is more willing to entertain the idea that Kassie is speaking the truth. As the deranged psychopathic killer continues to murder, Kassie is the recurrent thread that the police see in their investigations, they are certain she is playing a part in the killings. As Adam finds himself oscillating between doubt and belief over Kassie, he finds his life unraveling in ways that he could never have forseen.
MJ Arlidge showcases his trademark elements of darkness present in his crime fiction in this standalone book. It is a bleak and atmospheric story, with hugely compelling central protagonist in the courageous and brave Kassie, a girl whose mother abandons her and the only person she is close to is her grandmother suffering from dementia. Adam is the very human psychologist who eventually begins to connect Kassie in his desire to help her and he gets caught up in her attempts to stop the killer. There is not much in the way of light and hope in this novel, but it is compulsive reading. There were times when I thought VI Warshawski, Paretsky's Chicago PI, would turn up to take care of and save Kassie, but no such luck! I know many readers will not like the supernatural aspects of this brilliant piece of crime fiction, so this is recommended to those who are more accepting of this in the storyline. Many thanks to Penguin Michael Joseph for an ARC.
March 14, 2019
While he has been highly successful with his Helen Grace series, M.J. Arlidge branches out here with a standalone thriller that will leave readers wondering throughout. Kassandra ‘Kassie’ Wojcek may appear to be like any other teenager around Chicago, but she has a secret ability that can only be described as eerie. Able to predict how someone will die and when, Kassie sees this premonition as something prophetic, though she has no ability to stop it happening. When a lawyer with whom Kassie had been arguing turns up dead, the video evidence points at Kassie. Enter CPD Detective Gabrielle Grey, who begins an investigation into the teen, but garners little. Kassie is sent to see forensic psychologist Dr. Adam Brandt, who hears her story and is not entirely convinced. However, there is something about her determination and openness that leads Brandt to give her the benefit of the doubt. Helping to keep Kassie’s secret, Brandt finds his walls coming down, even as Kassie predicts another victim and is spot on. When Detective Grey catches the second murder and discovers that Kassie is again one of the last people to have seen the victim, her radar begins pinging anew. However, lurking in the shadows of Chicago is the real killer, someone who earns the moniker ‘The Chicago Butcher’. Will Kassie be able to help locate him before he kills again and why are all the victims tied to her in some way? It’s all hands on deck to solve this crime, though Kassie’s premonitions may not be enough. A wonderfully complex thriller that Arlidge has constructed for his fans. Dark and eerie, with just a touch of the supernatural. Fans of slowly evolving thrillers will surely want to get their hands on this one.
I have long been a fan of M.J. Arlidge and his work, which takes thriller writing to a new level. Balancing the art of great storytelling with the darker side of a depraved antagonist, Arlidge is able to lure his readers in from the outset while toying with them as the story evolves. The two-pronged story allows the reader the dual protagonist. Kassie Wojcek proves to be as troubled a teen as can be, with drug and emotional abuse, as well as a temper to match. She seeks to isolate herself from others repeatedly, which ends up being baffling when one notices her attempts to warn the victims throughout the piece. That she forges a relationship with Dr. Adam Brandt is all the more amuse, creating a loose parental figure out of him, particularly when Kassie’s own mother leaves her at one point in the narrative. Brandt must also struggle as he comes to terms with balancing his personal and professional lives. It takes a tragedy to help sober him up to reality’s harsh bite and keeps him in a state of perpetual confusion. However, the Kassie-Brandt relationship serves to level them both out and keeps the story fresh throughout. One might also look to Gabrielle Grey as a protagonist, though the investigation theme remains rooted in the background throughout most of the novel. The investigation seems almost an afterthought, thereby turning Gabrielle Grey into an apparent lesser character. However, the premise of the plot, that there is a killer that must be apprehended, contradicts this at its core. The story was quite strong and highly unique in its approach, keeping the reader guessing throughout. What does Kassie know and how did she acquire it? What tie does she have to the Chicago Butcher? Where do the criminal and psychological aspects of the novel mesh together and how strong do they make the overall product? Arlidge is a master at his craft and, save for a few irritants that I found—setting a story in America, but having his characters and narrator use British slang—the story was stellar. That this is a one-off novel serves Arlidge well to sell his wares and hopefully capture new fans who will devour the Helen Grace novels in short order.
Kudos, Mr. Arlidge, for a wonderful standalone novel. I have missed Helen Grace, but this helped smooth things over as I wait.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I have long been a fan of M.J. Arlidge and his work, which takes thriller writing to a new level. Balancing the art of great storytelling with the darker side of a depraved antagonist, Arlidge is able to lure his readers in from the outset while toying with them as the story evolves. The two-pronged story allows the reader the dual protagonist. Kassie Wojcek proves to be as troubled a teen as can be, with drug and emotional abuse, as well as a temper to match. She seeks to isolate herself from others repeatedly, which ends up being baffling when one notices her attempts to warn the victims throughout the piece. That she forges a relationship with Dr. Adam Brandt is all the more amuse, creating a loose parental figure out of him, particularly when Kassie’s own mother leaves her at one point in the narrative. Brandt must also struggle as he comes to terms with balancing his personal and professional lives. It takes a tragedy to help sober him up to reality’s harsh bite and keeps him in a state of perpetual confusion. However, the Kassie-Brandt relationship serves to level them both out and keeps the story fresh throughout. One might also look to Gabrielle Grey as a protagonist, though the investigation theme remains rooted in the background throughout most of the novel. The investigation seems almost an afterthought, thereby turning Gabrielle Grey into an apparent lesser character. However, the premise of the plot, that there is a killer that must be apprehended, contradicts this at its core. The story was quite strong and highly unique in its approach, keeping the reader guessing throughout. What does Kassie know and how did she acquire it? What tie does she have to the Chicago Butcher? Where do the criminal and psychological aspects of the novel mesh together and how strong do they make the overall product? Arlidge is a master at his craft and, save for a few irritants that I found—setting a story in America, but having his characters and narrator use British slang—the story was stellar. That this is a one-off novel serves Arlidge well to sell his wares and hopefully capture new fans who will devour the Helen Grace novels in short order.
Kudos, Mr. Arlidge, for a wonderful standalone novel. I have missed Helen Grace, but this helped smooth things over as I wait.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 10, 2019
This is the new standalone novel by author MJ Arlidge, writer of the successful Helen Grace series that I enjoy so much.
Troubled teenager Kassie Wotjcek claims to have the ability to be able to look into a persons eyes and see when and how they are going to die. This is more of a curse than a gift and Kassie avoids eye contact whenever possible. Set in Chicago there is a serial killer on the streets and Kassie is thrown into the plot when after looking into the eyes of Jacob Jones she can see his imminent brutal death. How can she help him without looking like an insane teenager.
A forensic psychologist named Adam Brandt is fascinated by Kassie and although he thinks she must have mental issues he cannot get around the fact that she appears to know who the next victim will be and against all his scientific know how, Adam starts to believe her.
Excellent fast paced novel that will certainly satisfy readers of Mystery thrillers.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Penguin UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Troubled teenager Kassie Wotjcek claims to have the ability to be able to look into a persons eyes and see when and how they are going to die. This is more of a curse than a gift and Kassie avoids eye contact whenever possible. Set in Chicago there is a serial killer on the streets and Kassie is thrown into the plot when after looking into the eyes of Jacob Jones she can see his imminent brutal death. How can she help him without looking like an insane teenager.
A forensic psychologist named Adam Brandt is fascinated by Kassie and although he thinks she must have mental issues he cannot get around the fact that she appears to know who the next victim will be and against all his scientific know how, Adam starts to believe her.
Excellent fast paced novel that will certainly satisfy readers of Mystery thrillers.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Penguin UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2019
I’ve long been a huge fan of M.J. Arlidge’s D.I Helen Grace series, so I was thrilled when I realised the author was publishing a new book A gift For The Dying. This is the author’s first foray into writing a stand-alone psychological thriller so I did have reservations after all “if it’s not broke why fix it?” and I do love my crime thriller reads. Once I had read the first couple of gripping chapters of A Gift For Dying any reservations I had melted away, this is one author who was born to write psychological thrillers.
Imagine having “the gift” (although personally I think in this case it’s more of a burden) when you look into someone’s eyes you could see how and when they will die, how the hell are you supposed to cope with that? Set in Chicago A Gift For Dying introduces the reader to Kassie a troubled teenager who claims she can see death before it happens. She is the prime suspect in a series of Gruesome murders and comes under the care of Adam Brandt a forensic psychologist who deals with some of the most damaged members of society. As he tries to unravel the truth, he can’t help being sceptical, but as he learns more about Kassie he finds he has to question everything he believes, and take a leap of faith if he’s going to help Kassie.
What a fascinating character Kassie turned out to be on one hand she appears vulnerable, lonely and scared but her regular drug use make her troubled, unreliable and paranoid. The more imminent or painful the death the more Kassie feels it, so it’s no wonder the poor girl has issues! M. J. Arlidge has created a character who will capture your heart, you feel her fear, loneliness, and vulnerability and yet she’s ballsy, and unwavering in her quest to bring an end to the serial killers gruesome crimes. The relationship between Kassie and Adams has so many layers and emotions attached to it, it’s one that becomes all the more intriguing as the plot progresses.
Part of the reason I enjoyed this book so much were the short snappy chapters, each one gives a sense of urgency, a need to read on to fathom out the direction the author was taking this nail biting read. The setting for this book is Chicago, an unusual departure for this author who normally sets his books in England. I love American fiction and this book feels very American with graphic and gory crime scenes that will make the more squeamish reader grimace frequently. and yet there’s also a great deal of emotion contained within this book something I wasn’t prepared for. A Gift For Dying contained real ‘OMFG I never seen that coming’ moments, seriously a couple of times I sat there in stunned silence! M. J. Arlidge has written the perfect psychological thriller, one that’s fraught with tension, fast-paced, with a spine tingling plot and engaging characters. Highly, recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http:/;thebookreviewcafe.com
Imagine having “the gift” (although personally I think in this case it’s more of a burden) when you look into someone’s eyes you could see how and when they will die, how the hell are you supposed to cope with that? Set in Chicago A Gift For Dying introduces the reader to Kassie a troubled teenager who claims she can see death before it happens. She is the prime suspect in a series of Gruesome murders and comes under the care of Adam Brandt a forensic psychologist who deals with some of the most damaged members of society. As he tries to unravel the truth, he can’t help being sceptical, but as he learns more about Kassie he finds he has to question everything he believes, and take a leap of faith if he’s going to help Kassie.
What a fascinating character Kassie turned out to be on one hand she appears vulnerable, lonely and scared but her regular drug use make her troubled, unreliable and paranoid. The more imminent or painful the death the more Kassie feels it, so it’s no wonder the poor girl has issues! M. J. Arlidge has created a character who will capture your heart, you feel her fear, loneliness, and vulnerability and yet she’s ballsy, and unwavering in her quest to bring an end to the serial killers gruesome crimes. The relationship between Kassie and Adams has so many layers and emotions attached to it, it’s one that becomes all the more intriguing as the plot progresses.
Part of the reason I enjoyed this book so much were the short snappy chapters, each one gives a sense of urgency, a need to read on to fathom out the direction the author was taking this nail biting read. The setting for this book is Chicago, an unusual departure for this author who normally sets his books in England. I love American fiction and this book feels very American with graphic and gory crime scenes that will make the more squeamish reader grimace frequently. and yet there’s also a great deal of emotion contained within this book something I wasn’t prepared for. A Gift For Dying contained real ‘OMFG I never seen that coming’ moments, seriously a couple of times I sat there in stunned silence! M. J. Arlidge has written the perfect psychological thriller, one that’s fraught with tension, fast-paced, with a spine tingling plot and engaging characters. Highly, recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http:/;thebookreviewcafe.com
March 10, 2019
The Helen Grace series is a favorite of mine. So, I was curious to see how this, a stand-alone thriller about a teenager claiming to have the ability to see into one's eyes and see how she or he would die, would turn out. In this book, we get to both follow the police during the serial killer investigations, as well as Adam Brandt, a forensic psychologist who is slowly getting more and more pulled into Kassie's world. Then, there is Kassie herself, the star of this book. She's a troubled youth who carries a terrible burden. Adam wants to help Kassie, but the more involved he gets into her life, the more problem arises for him and his wife who after several years are expecting their first child. Are Kassie's visions true? Or is she unbalanced?
I always enjoy reading books that are angling towards the paranormal. There is it or is it not something supernatural going on is such an interesting subject to read about. The "gift" of seeing how people will die, especially violently isn't something I would like to have. For Kassie has this been part of her whole life, she truly believes that she has this awful gift. However, all the people that she wars just end up being weirded out by her. Kassie herself comes from a broken home, with a mother who just wants her to behave and act normal.
As a thriller did I find the book to be interesting to read. Very different from the Helen Grace series and if I'm perfectly honest so did this book not rock my boat the same way that Arlidge's series about Helen Grace does. I found myself not as invested in the story as I hope to be and the pacing was a bit slow now and then. On the plus side, it sure gets hectic towards the end of the book. It's definitely a book worth reading and I found myself quite impressed with the books grim ending.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
I always enjoy reading books that are angling towards the paranormal. There is it or is it not something supernatural going on is such an interesting subject to read about. The "gift" of seeing how people will die, especially violently isn't something I would like to have. For Kassie has this been part of her whole life, she truly believes that she has this awful gift. However, all the people that she wars just end up being weirded out by her. Kassie herself comes from a broken home, with a mother who just wants her to behave and act normal.
As a thriller did I find the book to be interesting to read. Very different from the Helen Grace series and if I'm perfectly honest so did this book not rock my boat the same way that Arlidge's series about Helen Grace does. I found myself not as invested in the story as I hope to be and the pacing was a bit slow now and then. On the plus side, it sure gets hectic towards the end of the book. It's definitely a book worth reading and I found myself quite impressed with the books grim ending.
I want to thank the publisher for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
February 27, 2019
Briefy - Hum... Other than the last 20% and the ending this did little for me. Amazing when you think this guy wrote some of my favourite books of recent years.
In full
And now for something completely different! Having loved this author's Helen Grace series set in southern England, he now takes us to Chicago. Instead of a female police officer we now have Adam, a forensic psychologist who deals with mental health patients, as a lead role. He assists the police from time to time and is called in for what looks to be an unusual case. The teenager concerned - Kassie - claims to look into people eyes and know when and how they will die. That can't be the case can it?
The book follows Adam in his concern for, and initial disbelief of, Kassie. As you would expect there is a spate of serial killings in Chicago and the police are not inclined to pander to suggestions from a teenager or a forensic psychologist of what may be behind this.
Parts of this story are fairly unpleasant though that is becoming the norm now. The story really is about Kassie and Adam with others having fairly minor roles at best. Kassie was definitely interesting with her unusual skill. By comparison to the other characters in this story her persona felt quite developed. Adam's character was ok but I was not fully convinced by him. The police seemed aggressively less than competent and rather single minded. For me other characters in this had little impact or interest other than Adam's wife.
Overall I found this less than compelling and the story seemed drawn out. I think that I would maybe have stopped reading it were it not for the fact that it was a review copy. I guess inevitably I compared the story to the excellent Helen Grace series. I would happily recommend them to readers. The pace is excellent and they make for a tense enjoyable read. This book was not like that. The last third was not bad at all however the book had lost me quite some time before that. The ending I actually thought was pretty good too.
By all mean read the Helen Grace books, the majority of them are among the best thrillers I've read in recent years however I cannot recommend this one.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
http://viewson.org.uk/thriller/gift-f...
In full
And now for something completely different! Having loved this author's Helen Grace series set in southern England, he now takes us to Chicago. Instead of a female police officer we now have Adam, a forensic psychologist who deals with mental health patients, as a lead role. He assists the police from time to time and is called in for what looks to be an unusual case. The teenager concerned - Kassie - claims to look into people eyes and know when and how they will die. That can't be the case can it?
The book follows Adam in his concern for, and initial disbelief of, Kassie. As you would expect there is a spate of serial killings in Chicago and the police are not inclined to pander to suggestions from a teenager or a forensic psychologist of what may be behind this.
Parts of this story are fairly unpleasant though that is becoming the norm now. The story really is about Kassie and Adam with others having fairly minor roles at best. Kassie was definitely interesting with her unusual skill. By comparison to the other characters in this story her persona felt quite developed. Adam's character was ok but I was not fully convinced by him. The police seemed aggressively less than competent and rather single minded. For me other characters in this had little impact or interest other than Adam's wife.
Overall I found this less than compelling and the story seemed drawn out. I think that I would maybe have stopped reading it were it not for the fact that it was a review copy. I guess inevitably I compared the story to the excellent Helen Grace series. I would happily recommend them to readers. The pace is excellent and they make for a tense enjoyable read. This book was not like that. The last third was not bad at all however the book had lost me quite some time before that. The ending I actually thought was pretty good too.
By all mean read the Helen Grace books, the majority of them are among the best thrillers I've read in recent years however I cannot recommend this one.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
http://viewson.org.uk/thriller/gift-f...
January 21, 2019
Being a massive fan of the authors DI Helen Grace series, there was no way I could resist reading his new stand alone novel. Glad to report that it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Kassie is a young and vulnerable teen who has an unfortunate gift that runs in the family of being able to see how and when people are going to die. Imagine the people you love, friends and family, and knowing something like that. It is definitely more a curse than a gift that’s for sure.
Adam pretty much has it all. Even though his job is demanding, he has a wife and a baby on the way and life is definitely looking good. Meeting Kassie makes him question his own beliefs being a forensic psychologist and he is definitely out of his comfort zone when it comes to her.
The killer in this novel is a very sick and twisted one. The killings will without a doubt make you cringe but had me enthralled never the less. With a male and female protagonist and a female detective running the case, this really does make for a compulsive read. There are a great mix of characters that really add to the appeal of the story also.
A Gift For Dying shows off the authors writing skills even more. It is guaranteed to win over new fans as well as old and I hope that he has plenty more stand alone’s in the pipe line after this one. A dark, twisted and gripping read. Loved it!
My thanks to Tracy Fenton, NetGalley and Penguin UK – Michael Joseph for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Kassie is a young and vulnerable teen who has an unfortunate gift that runs in the family of being able to see how and when people are going to die. Imagine the people you love, friends and family, and knowing something like that. It is definitely more a curse than a gift that’s for sure.
Adam pretty much has it all. Even though his job is demanding, he has a wife and a baby on the way and life is definitely looking good. Meeting Kassie makes him question his own beliefs being a forensic psychologist and he is definitely out of his comfort zone when it comes to her.
The killer in this novel is a very sick and twisted one. The killings will without a doubt make you cringe but had me enthralled never the less. With a male and female protagonist and a female detective running the case, this really does make for a compulsive read. There are a great mix of characters that really add to the appeal of the story also.
A Gift For Dying shows off the authors writing skills even more. It is guaranteed to win over new fans as well as old and I hope that he has plenty more stand alone’s in the pipe line after this one. A dark, twisted and gripping read. Loved it!
My thanks to Tracy Fenton, NetGalley and Penguin UK – Michael Joseph for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
April 28, 2019
Different from the Helen Grace series for sure. This had a great premise but fell short for me. It was way too long, seemingly repeating its own storyline and an abrupt ending that I didn’t like.
September 11, 2019
4.5 stars - OK that was different, a stand alone thriller from the author who brings us the outstanding Helen Grace series. I don't normally touch books where I know there is going to be psychic element but, hey, this IS Arlidge! Very enjoyable read.
December 16, 2018
Excellent and creepy serial killer thriller plus here from Mr Arlidge. I read it early as I couldn't resist but am due to be on the blog tour so will hold a full review til then.
Recommended.
Recommended.
April 7, 2019
Deze standalone van MJ Arlidge is weer een topper! Zeker als je al fan bent van hem! In het 500 bladzijden dikke boek word je bijna constant in spanning gehouden. De hoofdpersonen Adam, Kassie en Gabrielle hebben ieder hun eigen problemen, maar hebben ook een gezamenlijk probleem: iemand die mensen vermoord in Chicago. Door de pers wordt hij De Slager genoemd.
Als je denkt dat het verhaal voorbij is, gebeurt er nog zoveel. Voor dit boek moet je een weekend vrij nemen, want je wilt 'm uitlezen!
Als je denkt dat het verhaal voorbij is, gebeurt er nog zoveel. Voor dit boek moet je een weekend vrij nemen, want je wilt 'm uitlezen!
July 16, 2019
I loved this B0ok. Though I love her Helen Grace Series it was nice to read a standalone book by her. It was up to her usual standard I'm please to say. I felt sorry for Adam at the end of the book. To loose all he held dear to him because he helped a venerable girl was tragic. I hoped that Kassie would avoid her destiny but it wasn't to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2019
A Gift For Dying is a standalone thriller novel from the writer of the popular Helen Grace series and it's dark, intense and twist-packed, edge-of-the-seat experience. I often find, due to reading a lot of books of this genre, that I am rarely completely blown away by unexpected surprises, but here, there were many and they really made the book impossible to put down. It's masterfully plotted and multilayered moving with pace and purpose, the reader never knowing which direction we were headed. Full of excitement, there were numerous times I was utterly gobsmacked after a stunning reveal.
This is definitely more of a plot-driven novel, so the characters are not as developed as in some other time reads. That said, the execution of the plot is so, so well done that I barely noticed amongst all of the action. Told from varying perspectives exposes the reader to how the characters feel and their nuances, and the chapters detailing the perspective of the unnamed serial killer were very intriguing; I'm always a fan of seeing things through their eyes. It's a very atmospheric tale. Recommended to those who don't mind supernatural elements to their crime fiction
Many thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for an ARC.
This is definitely more of a plot-driven novel, so the characters are not as developed as in some other time reads. That said, the execution of the plot is so, so well done that I barely noticed amongst all of the action. Told from varying perspectives exposes the reader to how the characters feel and their nuances, and the chapters detailing the perspective of the unnamed serial killer were very intriguing; I'm always a fan of seeing things through their eyes. It's a very atmospheric tale. Recommended to those who don't mind supernatural elements to their crime fiction
Many thanks to Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for an ARC.
August 16, 2020
Zo dan. Deze standalone is mijn kennismaking met Arlidge en dit is echt even bijkomen van een groots en indrukwekkend verhaal. Het is best veel allemaal maar op de goede manier. Dit is zó gruwelijk, indrukwekkend, innemend, omverblazend, hart in tweeën splijtend èn spannend ook. Niet normaal wat een thriller, voorzien van een beeldende en kundige schrijfstijl, van een geweldig plot en een onvergetelijk eind. Aanrader! 9/10
Karin Meinen - Samenlezenisleuker
Karin Meinen - Samenlezenisleuker
November 12, 2019
4 stars!
M.J. Arlidge is quickly becoming a trusty author after previously enjoying EENY MEENY. This is quite an atmospheric story, with a very intriguing protagonist in Kassie; a girl who has been abandoned by her mother and only has her grandma with dementia to talk to. She also has a supernatural talent which is very intriguing. I know many people may not enjoy supernatural aspects (I don’t think its THAT supernatural) so if you really don’t like that then its not for you.
Synopsis: Nothing surprises Adam Brandt anymore. As a forensic psychologist, he’s seen and heard everything. That is, until he meets Kassie. Because she claims to have a terrible gift—with one look into your eyes, she can see when and how you will die. Adam doesn’t believe her, obviously. But then a serial killer starts wreaking havoc across the city, and only Kassie seems to know where he’ll strike next. Against all his intuition, Adam starts to believe her. He just does’t realise how dangerous this trust might be…
One thing I particularly enjoyed about this book was the short chapters! With over 100 chapters; meaning there was a new chapter every 4/5 pages you just kept wanting to read one more chapter!! I also really enjoyed how you had NO IDEA who the killer was until the final section of the book. There were no clues along the way and I loved it! The book was also split into three separate books which I also enjoyed as each book moved the book along in a different way. For example, book three focused on the serial killer primarily and why they’re doing what they’re doing etc etc.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fast paced police procedural that made you want to turn those pages quicker! I definitely recommend this one.
M.J. Arlidge is quickly becoming a trusty author after previously enjoying EENY MEENY. This is quite an atmospheric story, with a very intriguing protagonist in Kassie; a girl who has been abandoned by her mother and only has her grandma with dementia to talk to. She also has a supernatural talent which is very intriguing. I know many people may not enjoy supernatural aspects (I don’t think its THAT supernatural) so if you really don’t like that then its not for you.
Synopsis: Nothing surprises Adam Brandt anymore. As a forensic psychologist, he’s seen and heard everything. That is, until he meets Kassie. Because she claims to have a terrible gift—with one look into your eyes, she can see when and how you will die. Adam doesn’t believe her, obviously. But then a serial killer starts wreaking havoc across the city, and only Kassie seems to know where he’ll strike next. Against all his intuition, Adam starts to believe her. He just does’t realise how dangerous this trust might be…
One thing I particularly enjoyed about this book was the short chapters! With over 100 chapters; meaning there was a new chapter every 4/5 pages you just kept wanting to read one more chapter!! I also really enjoyed how you had NO IDEA who the killer was until the final section of the book. There were no clues along the way and I loved it! The book was also split into three separate books which I also enjoyed as each book moved the book along in a different way. For example, book three focused on the serial killer primarily and why they’re doing what they’re doing etc etc.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a fast paced police procedural that made you want to turn those pages quicker! I definitely recommend this one.
May 21, 2019
I'm a fan of MJ Arlidge's Helen Grace series, but this standalone novel didn't work for me.
Kassie has a gift where she is able to see how and when someone dies. She runs into a random stranger in the street and to her surprise, he is shortly going to die a painful death.
It's hard to explain what my problem was with this novel. I think it was the combination of the characters and that the plot seemed to repeat over the couple of 400 pages.
I wasn't a fan of Kassie or her psychologist, Adam. It was difficult seeing them working together when they didn't have much of a foundation. Also half of the time, Adam didn't seem to believe Kassie even though he was putting his life and job on the line.
Also the plot seemed to repeat multiple times (Kassie runs into stranger, stranger then gets taken, Kassie tries to stop the killer, stranger get killed, Kassie is the prime suspect). It got a bit old after the second death.
The ending was also a bit too fast paced for my liking and it got a bit confusing. I would of liked more of a progression for certain characters.
Kassie has a gift where she is able to see how and when someone dies. She runs into a random stranger in the street and to her surprise, he is shortly going to die a painful death.
It's hard to explain what my problem was with this novel. I think it was the combination of the characters and that the plot seemed to repeat over the couple of 400 pages.
I wasn't a fan of Kassie or her psychologist, Adam. It was difficult seeing them working together when they didn't have much of a foundation. Also half of the time, Adam didn't seem to believe Kassie even though he was putting his life and job on the line.
Also the plot seemed to repeat multiple times (Kassie runs into stranger, stranger then gets taken, Kassie tries to stop the killer, stranger get killed, Kassie is the prime suspect). It got a bit old after the second death.
The ending was also a bit too fast paced for my liking and it got a bit confusing. I would of liked more of a progression for certain characters.
April 21, 2019
“Kom je spelen? - MJ Arlidge”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Iedereen die mij een beetje kent, weet dat ik een enorme hekel heb aan bovennatuurlijke toestanden. 🤢
In deze stand-alone van Arlidge is dat eigenlijk de hoofdzaak. Dus toen ik begon met het boek, dacht ik “Oh nee serieus?!” 🤦♀️
Maar! Ik geef dit boek de volle 4 ⭐️!
Arlidge is er namelijk in geslaagd om mij te doen lezen en te triggeren. 😱
Elk ander boek met dit onderwerp had ik na verloop van tijd buiten gegooid. In dit boek zat het spannende element zo goed verwerkt dat ik écht moest blijven lezen! 😯
Ik vond dit een TOPBOEK! Als je mij zo een boek met dat onderwerp kan laten lezen van begin tot eind op amper enkele dagen tijd, dan ben je een fantastische schrijver! 👌👍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Iedereen die mij een beetje kent, weet dat ik een enorme hekel heb aan bovennatuurlijke toestanden. 🤢
In deze stand-alone van Arlidge is dat eigenlijk de hoofdzaak. Dus toen ik begon met het boek, dacht ik “Oh nee serieus?!” 🤦♀️
Maar! Ik geef dit boek de volle 4 ⭐️!
Arlidge is er namelijk in geslaagd om mij te doen lezen en te triggeren. 😱
Elk ander boek met dit onderwerp had ik na verloop van tijd buiten gegooid. In dit boek zat het spannende element zo goed verwerkt dat ik écht moest blijven lezen! 😯
Ik vond dit een TOPBOEK! Als je mij zo een boek met dat onderwerp kan laten lezen van begin tot eind op amper enkele dagen tijd, dan ben je een fantastische schrijver! 👌👍
August 20, 2024
Possible Trigger: Very graphic details of the murders
Kassie has a gift...or a curse, depending on how you look at it. She has the ability to look into someone’s eyes and see the "how" and the "when" of their death. These premonitions have led her to psychologist Adam Brandt when she is held by detectives after an encounter with someone in the street.
Kassie is no stranger to the police having a string of offences to her name including theft, assault and drug use but Adam feels a connection to her and decides to try and help. He is not really convinced that she can do what she claims but he wants to find out more. He soon finds himself caught up in events of which he had never imagined. Meanwhile a serial killer is stalking and picking his next victims on the streets of Chicago, torturing and killing them in the most terrifying and gruesome of ways.
It's been some time since I have read this author, but I always liked the writing style and the way the story is told... so I wasn't too surprised that this was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down. despite the graphic detail of some of the murders (which did make me wince a bit) I was addicted to it and desperate to find out what happened next. The Kassie character took some time to really feel anything for...she just had too much going against her that was her own fault. We "hear" the story from several different viewpoints...Kassie's, Adams's, the detective's and the killers. This did make the "picture" come together and make more sense. If you like fast paced, dark and graphic thrillers you will want to read this one...the ending is nothing short of incredible.
Kassie has a gift...or a curse, depending on how you look at it. She has the ability to look into someone’s eyes and see the "how" and the "when" of their death. These premonitions have led her to psychologist Adam Brandt when she is held by detectives after an encounter with someone in the street.
Kassie is no stranger to the police having a string of offences to her name including theft, assault and drug use but Adam feels a connection to her and decides to try and help. He is not really convinced that she can do what she claims but he wants to find out more. He soon finds himself caught up in events of which he had never imagined. Meanwhile a serial killer is stalking and picking his next victims on the streets of Chicago, torturing and killing them in the most terrifying and gruesome of ways.
It's been some time since I have read this author, but I always liked the writing style and the way the story is told... so I wasn't too surprised that this was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down. despite the graphic detail of some of the murders (which did make me wince a bit) I was addicted to it and desperate to find out what happened next. The Kassie character took some time to really feel anything for...she just had too much going against her that was her own fault. We "hear" the story from several different viewpoints...Kassie's, Adams's, the detective's and the killers. This did make the "picture" come together and make more sense. If you like fast paced, dark and graphic thrillers you will want to read this one...the ending is nothing short of incredible.
April 26, 2019
I would like to thank Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for an advance copy of A Gift for Dying, a stand alone thriller set in Chicago.
When 15 year old Kassie Wojcek is arrested for harassing federal prosecutor, Jacob Jones, forensic psychologist Adam Brandt is asked to assess her. Kassie claims that she was trying to warn Jacob that he was about to die because she had seen it on his face when she looked at him. Adam thinks she’s delusional but then Jacob is murdered and he’s not the last, all foretold by Kassie. This knowledge leads the police to suspect she’s involved in the killings and Adam to question his judgement.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Gift for Dying which is a roller coaster of a read with some amazing twists. If the reader is prepared to overlook the unlikelihood of Kassie’s gift and some coincidences it is a treat of a novel which will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. It is clever with a well conceived and executed plot which always seems to be moving forward with momentum but there is no guessing where it will go because every time the reader gets used to a certain set of circumstances the author throws in another twist. More than once I felt my jaw dropping as the author drops another bombshell. I think the plotting is a tour de force in every way except the premise of Kassie’s gift which I found difficult to swallow. Of course without it there would be no novel so I just accepted it and moved on. I’m glad I did as it’s an exciting read.
The novel is told from various perspectives, notably Kassie, Adam, Detective Gabrielle Grey and the occasional glimpse of the unnamed killer. Initially it seems fragmentary but as it progresses and the pace picks up it seems like a good thing, giving the reader a broader perspective on events.
I don’t think characterisation is Mr Arlidge’s main strength but it’s not particularly important in a plot driven thriller to have nuanced protagonists as all they need to be is credible enough to sustain the plot. Kassie is a troubled teenager, struggling to deal with her gift and Adam is the caring professional who gets caught up in her life and watches his own disintegrate.
When 15 year old Kassie Wojcek is arrested for harassing federal prosecutor, Jacob Jones, forensic psychologist Adam Brandt is asked to assess her. Kassie claims that she was trying to warn Jacob that he was about to die because she had seen it on his face when she looked at him. Adam thinks she’s delusional but then Jacob is murdered and he’s not the last, all foretold by Kassie. This knowledge leads the police to suspect she’s involved in the killings and Adam to question his judgement.
I thoroughly enjoyed A Gift for Dying which is a roller coaster of a read with some amazing twists. If the reader is prepared to overlook the unlikelihood of Kassie’s gift and some coincidences it is a treat of a novel which will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. It is clever with a well conceived and executed plot which always seems to be moving forward with momentum but there is no guessing where it will go because every time the reader gets used to a certain set of circumstances the author throws in another twist. More than once I felt my jaw dropping as the author drops another bombshell. I think the plotting is a tour de force in every way except the premise of Kassie’s gift which I found difficult to swallow. Of course without it there would be no novel so I just accepted it and moved on. I’m glad I did as it’s an exciting read.
The novel is told from various perspectives, notably Kassie, Adam, Detective Gabrielle Grey and the occasional glimpse of the unnamed killer. Initially it seems fragmentary but as it progresses and the pace picks up it seems like a good thing, giving the reader a broader perspective on events.
I don’t think characterisation is Mr Arlidge’s main strength but it’s not particularly important in a plot driven thriller to have nuanced protagonists as all they need to be is credible enough to sustain the plot. Kassie is a troubled teenager, struggling to deal with her gift and Adam is the caring professional who gets caught up in her life and watches his own disintegrate.
January 4, 2022
As a huge fan of the Helen Grace, I was curious how this stand-alone novel will thrill me. And M.J. Arlidge does not disappoint. He delivers a gruesome story, a thriller that will keep you wondering, that moves you from one character to the other, casting doubt, but without any final twist. I have read all the ten novels of Helen Grace and I thought I knew Arlidge's style, but this thriller took me by surprise. It creates tension, meandering from one victim to the other, wrapping the criminal in mystery and suspense, but, unfortunately, it does not deliver the final punch. I could not understand the end, because it was too plain.
The one thing that is common to all Arlidge's novels is the dark atmosphere and the cruelty of the criminal, and Alridge is not shy when it comes to painting the details. On some occasion it was too much for me, although I have read about 500 thrillers already.
The thriller focuses on two main characters, the forensic psychologist Adam Brandt and Kassie, a teen that has the power to see in everyone else's eyes and see when and how they die. What for some would seem a gift, it is in fact for her a curse, which turns her intro a troubled teenager, unable to adapt and mingle with colleagues or make friends. Their relationship goes beyond the therapist - patient relation, which just opens the door for trouble. The novel lacks a smart detective or investigator, as the police, when it is not totally useless, it just makes life harder for Kassie. Gabrielle Grey is just the type of detective that makes some arrests, bangs her head against the wall several times and then starts thinking, being always last on the scene.
The novel has a touch of supernatural, which reminded me of the old TV series, where police would use some supernatural gifted people to help them solve cases and I kept waiting until the end to see of the author will give a perfectly normal explanation or it will keep the mystery regarding Kassie's gift. But I will not spoil this for you, you will have to read the book in order to find how the author will explain the situation.
The one thing that is common to all Arlidge's novels is the dark atmosphere and the cruelty of the criminal, and Alridge is not shy when it comes to painting the details. On some occasion it was too much for me, although I have read about 500 thrillers already.
The thriller focuses on two main characters, the forensic psychologist Adam Brandt and Kassie, a teen that has the power to see in everyone else's eyes and see when and how they die. What for some would seem a gift, it is in fact for her a curse, which turns her intro a troubled teenager, unable to adapt and mingle with colleagues or make friends. Their relationship goes beyond the therapist - patient relation, which just opens the door for trouble. The novel lacks a smart detective or investigator, as the police, when it is not totally useless, it just makes life harder for Kassie. Gabrielle Grey is just the type of detective that makes some arrests, bangs her head against the wall several times and then starts thinking, being always last on the scene.
The novel has a touch of supernatural, which reminded me of the old TV series, where police would use some supernatural gifted people to help them solve cases and I kept waiting until the end to see of the author will give a perfectly normal explanation or it will keep the mystery regarding Kassie's gift. But I will not spoil this for you, you will have to read the book in order to find how the author will explain the situation.
July 2, 2019
I really enjoy the Helen Grace series so I was looking forward to reading this new story. It's a complete change of pace and this book is set in Chicago. I was really intrigued by the vagueness of a bit of a supernatural angle. Kassie can see when you die. Or so she believes. Psychologist Adam Brandt is hoping to show her she has a form of psychosis that can be helped. However this isn't actually ever settled and I liked that. It's not actually a supernatural book but it can be if your learning is more towards what Kassie believes.
The story itself is a good thriller. It's a stand alone but you could easily move the focus to the few police that are also trying to track down the serial killer as there's enough character development of these guys to do so. And as with Grace, the head of the crime unit is female and I liked her for (at least here) not having any depressing back story. Simply a good strong woman with a good relationship and seemingly no hang ups. Bit rare sometimes in crime stories so I would happily read more of this unit.
A good enjoyable read
The story itself is a good thriller. It's a stand alone but you could easily move the focus to the few police that are also trying to track down the serial killer as there's enough character development of these guys to do so. And as with Grace, the head of the crime unit is female and I liked her for (at least here) not having any depressing back story. Simply a good strong woman with a good relationship and seemingly no hang ups. Bit rare sometimes in crime stories so I would happily read more of this unit.
A good enjoyable read
March 24, 2019
This is my first read of a book by this author, despite collecting some of the Helen Grace series and what a fantastic book to start with and even better, it’s a standalone.
Kassie Wojcek is a teenager with a gift – or a curse, whichever way you want to look at it. She can look into someone’s eyes and see their death – how and when. These premonitions bring her into contact with psychologist Adam Brandt when she is held by detectives after an encounter with someone in the street. Kassie is no stranger to the police having a string of offences to her name including theft, assault and drug use but Adam feels a connection to the troubled girl and decides to try and help her. He is not really convinced by her claims but he wants to find out more and in trying to counsel her, he finds himself caught up in events of which he could never have imagined.
Meanwhile a serial killer is stalking and picking his victims from the streets of Chicago, torturing and killing them in the most terrifying and gruesome of ways.
A Gift for Dying was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down. My proof copy was 470 pages but it has short snappy chapters which just beg you to read on for just a bit longer …..and despite the graphic detail of some of the murders (which did make me wince a bit) I was addicted to it and desperate to find out what happened next.
Of Polish origin, Kassie lived with her mother, in a run-down part of town. She skipped school, took drugs and had an attitude but nevertheless there was something vulnerable and engaging about her and I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her, even if at times my cynical head wondered if she was actually involved in the crimes somehow. I think it was her loneliness that affected me the most, she had had no one to turn to, her mother didn’t really care and had washed her hands of her because of her truancy and drug taking. She struggled to cope with the burden of the visions and wanted to help although quite often that help was misinterpreted as something else.
The story is told from various points of view including Kassie, Adam, the detective and the killer, to give a complete picture and character insight. The detective in charge, Gabrielle Grey seemed to be rather out of her depth here and was facing an uphill battle to find the killer before another victim was claimed. I did think she was too blinkered at times however this all adds to the cat and mouse suspense of the story. When I got to the last 30 pages or so, there was absolutely no way I was going to put this book down – and that ending was just incredible – a real fingernail biter of a climax.
If you like your crime dark, then this fast paced, graphic killer thriller should hit the spot. I thought it was great and certainly want to read more by M J Arlidge. I suppose I should start by hunting out those Helen Grace novels…..
Kassie Wojcek is a teenager with a gift – or a curse, whichever way you want to look at it. She can look into someone’s eyes and see their death – how and when. These premonitions bring her into contact with psychologist Adam Brandt when she is held by detectives after an encounter with someone in the street. Kassie is no stranger to the police having a string of offences to her name including theft, assault and drug use but Adam feels a connection to the troubled girl and decides to try and help her. He is not really convinced by her claims but he wants to find out more and in trying to counsel her, he finds himself caught up in events of which he could never have imagined.
Meanwhile a serial killer is stalking and picking his victims from the streets of Chicago, torturing and killing them in the most terrifying and gruesome of ways.
A Gift for Dying was one of those books that I didn’t want to put down. My proof copy was 470 pages but it has short snappy chapters which just beg you to read on for just a bit longer …..and despite the graphic detail of some of the murders (which did make me wince a bit) I was addicted to it and desperate to find out what happened next.
Of Polish origin, Kassie lived with her mother, in a run-down part of town. She skipped school, took drugs and had an attitude but nevertheless there was something vulnerable and engaging about her and I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her, even if at times my cynical head wondered if she was actually involved in the crimes somehow. I think it was her loneliness that affected me the most, she had had no one to turn to, her mother didn’t really care and had washed her hands of her because of her truancy and drug taking. She struggled to cope with the burden of the visions and wanted to help although quite often that help was misinterpreted as something else.
The story is told from various points of view including Kassie, Adam, the detective and the killer, to give a complete picture and character insight. The detective in charge, Gabrielle Grey seemed to be rather out of her depth here and was facing an uphill battle to find the killer before another victim was claimed. I did think she was too blinkered at times however this all adds to the cat and mouse suspense of the story. When I got to the last 30 pages or so, there was absolutely no way I was going to put this book down – and that ending was just incredible – a real fingernail biter of a climax.
If you like your crime dark, then this fast paced, graphic killer thriller should hit the spot. I thought it was great and certainly want to read more by M J Arlidge. I suppose I should start by hunting out those Helen Grace novels…..
June 17, 2021
My rating for this read is 3.5,This book is a standalone book.This book starts with a teenager Kassie she looks into a person's eyes and knows they are going to die.who is the killer.Adam a psychologist helps Kassie but does he believe her.found this book a slow read needed more on my God moments.It was okay read.still perfer Helen Grace series.
May 10, 2019
This thriller by Arlidge wasn't about Helen Grace this time.
Something totally different, but no less exciting.
I couldn't put this book down, such a page-turner! Well, done, M.J.!
Deze thriller van Arlidge ging voor de verandering eens niet over Helen Grace.
Eens iets heel anders, maar niet minder interessant.
Dit was een echte page-turner, ik kon er gewoon niet in stoppen. 10 op tien voor mij!
Something totally different, but no less exciting.
I couldn't put this book down, such a page-turner! Well, done, M.J.!
Deze thriller van Arlidge ging voor de verandering eens niet over Helen Grace.
Eens iets heel anders, maar niet minder interessant.
Dit was een echte page-turner, ik kon er gewoon niet in stoppen. 10 op tien voor mij!
March 9, 2019
This book was odd, it felt like something was missing. So many things just didn't add up or connect well for me and the ending was dire.
April 22, 2019
Toppertje alweer.
August 30, 2023
Não anda longe do melhor livro que li do autor, mas devido à forma "apressada" como foi revelada o criminoso, como foi introduzido na estória um pouco "a seco", não consigo dar cotação máxima. Mas anda lá perto.
Não sou fã de fantasia, sobrenatural e afins, mas tenho uma visão muito própria da mediunidade, que é abordada ligeiramente neste livro. Isso, a par de todo o historial da protagonista, tocou-me imenso e está profundamente bem relatado. Desajuste da sociedade, incompreensão, solidão, revolta... Mais que um policial é um livro com um pendor humano enorme e que me fez pensar imenso nos "desajustados" da sociedade. Que alguns hipócritas dizem que temos que aceitar e integrar no nosso seio, mas muitos continuam a ser vistos como párias.
Para além do que diz respeito à temática policial, esta obra aborda muitos outros temas fracturantes como a infertilidade e o suicídio e sobre os quais conseguimos fazer um paralelo com algumas realidades. Gosto de livros que me façam meditar sobre os temas e este foi excepcional nesse ponto.
Já me alonguei demasiado... Convido-vos a esta leitura, que não causará arrependimento.
4,5 ⭐
Não sou fã de fantasia, sobrenatural e afins, mas tenho uma visão muito própria da mediunidade, que é abordada ligeiramente neste livro. Isso, a par de todo o historial da protagonista, tocou-me imenso e está profundamente bem relatado. Desajuste da sociedade, incompreensão, solidão, revolta... Mais que um policial é um livro com um pendor humano enorme e que me fez pensar imenso nos "desajustados" da sociedade. Que alguns hipócritas dizem que temos que aceitar e integrar no nosso seio, mas muitos continuam a ser vistos como párias.
Para além do que diz respeito à temática policial, esta obra aborda muitos outros temas fracturantes como a infertilidade e o suicídio e sobre os quais conseguimos fazer um paralelo com algumas realidades. Gosto de livros que me façam meditar sobre os temas e este foi excepcional nesse ponto.
Já me alonguei demasiado... Convido-vos a esta leitura, que não causará arrependimento.
4,5 ⭐
November 4, 2019
I’m a fan of this author so in ways I feel frustrated as I could pick away at this novel.
Set in the US which is a move away from the Helen grace series of novels. Although it didn’t feel American it could have been Manchester or London quite easily
Very clever premise for a novel based on a murder who is caught short by Kassie who can see when and how people will die. But no one will believe her
Set in the US which is a move away from the Helen grace series of novels. Although it didn’t feel American it could have been Manchester or London quite easily
Very clever premise for a novel based on a murder who is caught short by Kassie who can see when and how people will die. But no one will believe her
March 17, 2019
A dark and compelling stand-alone thriller from the author of the very successful Helen Grace series. I thought the plot was original and the story very-well written. I definitely felt the build up of tension as the book progressed and although there were some clues as to how the book would ultimately end there were lots of twists along the way! Would make a brilliant film!
April 24, 2019
Weer een erg spannend boek van M.J.Arlidge. Nu niet over Helen Grace maar los te lezen.
Het verhaal was spannend en ik had niet door wie de dader was. Tot hij werd geïntroduceerd, daarna vond ik de informatie over hem erg summier en kwam het verhaal ook snel aan zn einde.
Het verhaal was spannend en ik had niet door wie de dader was. Tot hij werd geïntroduceerd, daarna vond ik de informatie over hem erg summier en kwam het verhaal ook snel aan zn einde.
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