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Familiar Strangers
'I took you, Becca. You’re not my daughter.'
Since Becca Wall’s mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, every day Becca loses a little more of the loving, caring mother who would do anything for her only daughter. But when one day Nancy Wall confesses that Becca is not her child, Becca's world falls apart.
Becca tells herself that the words are just a cruel symptom of Nancy’s illness; after all, she has her birth certificate, and pictures of herself as a newborn along with her Mom, Dad and older brother, Danny. Becca tries to forget, to get on with her life – until the day the police question her about the whereabouts of a missing woman, Katie Collins.
Katie has disappeared without a trace, telling her husband that she is leaving to find Rebecca Wall. But Becca doesn’t know Katie, so it’s a case of mistaken identity – isn’t it? But as Becca discovers why Katie was desperate to find her, the lies that Becca has always believed come crashing down. Soon, it’s clear that someone knows the truth – and that they’ll stop at nothing to keep their secrets…
An addictive, fast-paced psychological thriller with a shocking twist that will leave you gasping. Fans of The Girl on the Train, The Wife Between Us and T.M Logan will be gripped until the very last page.
Since Becca Wall’s mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, every day Becca loses a little more of the loving, caring mother who would do anything for her only daughter. But when one day Nancy Wall confesses that Becca is not her child, Becca's world falls apart.
Becca tells herself that the words are just a cruel symptom of Nancy’s illness; after all, she has her birth certificate, and pictures of herself as a newborn along with her Mom, Dad and older brother, Danny. Becca tries to forget, to get on with her life – until the day the police question her about the whereabouts of a missing woman, Katie Collins.
Katie has disappeared without a trace, telling her husband that she is leaving to find Rebecca Wall. But Becca doesn’t know Katie, so it’s a case of mistaken identity – isn’t it? But as Becca discovers why Katie was desperate to find her, the lies that Becca has always believed come crashing down. Soon, it’s clear that someone knows the truth – and that they’ll stop at nothing to keep their secrets…
An addictive, fast-paced psychological thriller with a shocking twist that will leave you gasping. Fans of The Girl on the Train, The Wife Between Us and T.M Logan will be gripped until the very last page.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2019
356 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
May 28, 2019
5☆ Enthralling, Twisty, Gripping, yet so very Poignant!
Wow this was a gripping psychological thriller with a very poignant storyline.
Rebecca's Mother has Alzheimer's and it's in the advanced stages.
At some point we all have encounters with this heart breaking and cruel condition.
My Auntie passed away 17months ago and she too had Alzheimer's so this was a particularly tough story to read.
But despite it being a tough read, it was so enthralling I was drawn in from the start!
Back to the story!
What what you do if your mother told you that she had taken you and you're not her daughter??
Bearing in mind Rebecca's Mother has Alzheimer's!
Well that's what happened to Rebecca.
Then things start to take a sinister turn.
Someone has been in Rebecca's flat.
The police are looking for Rebecca in question, of the disappearance of Katie Collins.
But who is Katie?
Why is she looking for Rebecca?
And why when she turns up dead is Rebecca the prime suspect?
Is there any connection to her Mother's mystery outburst?
So many juicy questions, so many thrilling twists!
Who to trust and who to believe.
The opening prologue was eerie and I loved it! I left me completely intrigued.
Familiar Strangers is cleverly written, and the twists and turns plotted perfectly!
It's gripping, pacy, enthralling, kept me on my toes, exciting, yet very emotional and had me tearing up.
I've not read a psychological thriller before that has evoked such strong emotional reactions, which is a big credit to Jackie Walsh.
The Characters are deeply flawed yet perfect for the storyline.
If you are looking for a psychological thriller with a poignant twist, that will keep you on your toes, yet will tug at your heart strings, and provides enthralling twists and turns then you will adore Familiar Strangers!
I can't wait to discover more from Jackie Walsh, she is definitely going on my to watch out for list!
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side Tours and Hers Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Wow this was a gripping psychological thriller with a very poignant storyline.
Rebecca's Mother has Alzheimer's and it's in the advanced stages.
At some point we all have encounters with this heart breaking and cruel condition.
My Auntie passed away 17months ago and she too had Alzheimer's so this was a particularly tough story to read.
But despite it being a tough read, it was so enthralling I was drawn in from the start!
Back to the story!
What what you do if your mother told you that she had taken you and you're not her daughter??
Bearing in mind Rebecca's Mother has Alzheimer's!
Well that's what happened to Rebecca.
Then things start to take a sinister turn.
Someone has been in Rebecca's flat.
The police are looking for Rebecca in question, of the disappearance of Katie Collins.
But who is Katie?
Why is she looking for Rebecca?
And why when she turns up dead is Rebecca the prime suspect?
Is there any connection to her Mother's mystery outburst?
So many juicy questions, so many thrilling twists!
Who to trust and who to believe.
The opening prologue was eerie and I loved it! I left me completely intrigued.
Familiar Strangers is cleverly written, and the twists and turns plotted perfectly!
It's gripping, pacy, enthralling, kept me on my toes, exciting, yet very emotional and had me tearing up.
I've not read a psychological thriller before that has evoked such strong emotional reactions, which is a big credit to Jackie Walsh.
The Characters are deeply flawed yet perfect for the storyline.
If you are looking for a psychological thriller with a poignant twist, that will keep you on your toes, yet will tug at your heart strings, and provides enthralling twists and turns then you will adore Familiar Strangers!
I can't wait to discover more from Jackie Walsh, she is definitely going on my to watch out for list!
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side Tours and Hers Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
May 26, 2019
𝒮𝓊𝓈𝓅𝑒𝓃𝓈𝑒𝒻𝓊𝓁. 𝒞𝑜𝓂𝓅𝓊𝓁𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒. 𝐼𝓃𝓉𝓇𝒾𝑔𝓊𝒾𝓃𝑔.
Jackie Walsh’s debut was addictive, compelling, and suspenseful. Becca is 27 and hasn’t quite figured out what she wants to do with her life. Her loving mother suffers from early onset Alzheimer’s and it has obviously had a huge impact on Becca and her family. One day when Becca was visiting her mother at the care facility her mother tells her “you’re not my daughter, I took you.“ that’s it one lucid moment that might change everything. Becca doesn’t know what to think, but when a woman is murdered who had been looking for her, A complete stranger, she begins to wonder, was there some truth behind my mom’s words? And if so who am I?
This book had a bit of a whodunit vibe for me, the mystery of who killed Katie Collins (the stranger). Becca was a likable flawed character. Yes she made some questionable choices, but don’t we all? I also really liked how clever it was to have Becca’s mom Nancy make this major revelation, but never be able to explain it. There was a feeling of tension and urgency throughout the story that kept me frantically turning those pages. I felt for Becca, can’t even imagine thinking you aren’t who you think you are. I was really happy she had Jeff by her side throughout the book, and in my mind they end up getting together and living happily ever after.
This was a well told, well paste, compulsively readable story. And impressive debut and I am looking forward to seeing what is next from Jackie Walsh.
*** many thanks to Hera Books for my copy of this book ***
Jackie Walsh’s debut was addictive, compelling, and suspenseful. Becca is 27 and hasn’t quite figured out what she wants to do with her life. Her loving mother suffers from early onset Alzheimer’s and it has obviously had a huge impact on Becca and her family. One day when Becca was visiting her mother at the care facility her mother tells her “you’re not my daughter, I took you.“ that’s it one lucid moment that might change everything. Becca doesn’t know what to think, but when a woman is murdered who had been looking for her, A complete stranger, she begins to wonder, was there some truth behind my mom’s words? And if so who am I?
This book had a bit of a whodunit vibe for me, the mystery of who killed Katie Collins (the stranger). Becca was a likable flawed character. Yes she made some questionable choices, but don’t we all? I also really liked how clever it was to have Becca’s mom Nancy make this major revelation, but never be able to explain it. There was a feeling of tension and urgency throughout the story that kept me frantically turning those pages. I felt for Becca, can’t even imagine thinking you aren’t who you think you are. I was really happy she had Jeff by her side throughout the book, and in my mind they end up getting together and living happily ever after.
This was a well told, well paste, compulsively readable story. And impressive debut and I am looking forward to seeing what is next from Jackie Walsh.
*** many thanks to Hera Books for my copy of this book ***
May 7, 2019
As if Becca doesn’t have enough on her plate with her mother in a care home suffering with Alzheimer’s, the police turn up quizzing her about the disappearance of a woman who is a total stranger to Becca.
The story grabbed me right from the first page. I wanted to know if there was any truth in what Becca’s mum has said to her and like Becca, I was desperate for answers. As the story goes along the suspense was literally electrifying. I got more and more wrapped up in the story and couldn’t wait to get back to it every time I had to put it down to get on with real life.
Each character seems to bring something different to the story. They added even more intrigue making it one of those, just one more chapters, type of reads. It really is steeped with lies and secrets of which I couldn’t devour quick enough.
Familiar Strangers is packed to the brim with suspense that will have you hooked throughout. It will have you questioning and doubting everyone. It also held a few surprises in store making it even more compelling. This is one of those books you need to make sure you set some time aside for, as once you start it, you will not want to stop until you turn that very last page.
My thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The story grabbed me right from the first page. I wanted to know if there was any truth in what Becca’s mum has said to her and like Becca, I was desperate for answers. As the story goes along the suspense was literally electrifying. I got more and more wrapped up in the story and couldn’t wait to get back to it every time I had to put it down to get on with real life.
Each character seems to bring something different to the story. They added even more intrigue making it one of those, just one more chapters, type of reads. It really is steeped with lies and secrets of which I couldn’t devour quick enough.
Familiar Strangers is packed to the brim with suspense that will have you hooked throughout. It will have you questioning and doubting everyone. It also held a few surprises in store making it even more compelling. This is one of those books you need to make sure you set some time aside for, as once you start it, you will not want to stop until you turn that very last page.
My thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
May 24, 2019
Familiar Strangers is a book in which Alzheimer's, a horrific disease, plays a substantial role and this makes it not only completely gripping but also very emotionally resonant too. A lot of what happens is believable and having had a close relative deteriorate and pass away due to complications of the disease I feel it is importantly portrayed in a realistic manner, treated sensitively and compassionately, and has been researched thoroughly. There are a decent amount of twists in the tale which take you by surprise and once you've picked it up the only time you'll be putting it down is when it's concluded.
Walsh is one of those writers who is adept at crafting a novel overflowing with suspense and one in which you don't know who to trust. It has you questioning everyone's intentions right from the beginning. I am amazed that this is a debut as it is a pretty excellent read with relatable characters, a solid plot and a plethora of red herrings and misdirection to keep you guessing. I look forward to her following novels. Many thanks to Hera Books for an ARC.
Walsh is one of those writers who is adept at crafting a novel overflowing with suspense and one in which you don't know who to trust. It has you questioning everyone's intentions right from the beginning. I am amazed that this is a debut as it is a pretty excellent read with relatable characters, a solid plot and a plethora of red herrings and misdirection to keep you guessing. I look forward to her following novels. Many thanks to Hera Books for an ARC.
May 21, 2019
I loved the premise of the story, a mother with Alzheimer's in a nursing home suddenly uttering the words - You are not mine, I took you!! And the daughter Becca's world was absolutely shattered. On the other hand, an unknown woman was found murdered close to her home, and the cops started investigating her.
Jackie Walsh with her debut kept me enthralled for most of the book. I kept egging the main character to move faster. The pages of kindle sure did turn fast. I needed to know the secret of her birth, the life she had been living. Not a single thing seemed to foretell the story of her past. I liked seeing how she persevered to find clues since the truth was hidden in her mother's lost world.
In some ways I loved the way Becca's circumstances were described, she seemed trapped. Only the truth would release her from the prison of someone else's making. Searching for information about the dead woman brought her very close to the edge of the precipice where freefall was the only option. Walsh's writing brought out the desperation so clearly that I kept inspecting every line to get an inkling about the past.
Ah but soon my niggles came to light. Becca was not shown growing strong down the book except in the last 20%. She either drank and drank and drank or she fell unconscious. I am sure if I investigate, I would find that drinking led to her swooning with every information revealed to her. Ughhh...
Yet the book with its story kept me hooked for those 3 hours allowing me to escape into Becca's world with its familiar strangers.
Jackie Walsh with her debut kept me enthralled for most of the book. I kept egging the main character to move faster. The pages of kindle sure did turn fast. I needed to know the secret of her birth, the life she had been living. Not a single thing seemed to foretell the story of her past. I liked seeing how she persevered to find clues since the truth was hidden in her mother's lost world.
In some ways I loved the way Becca's circumstances were described, she seemed trapped. Only the truth would release her from the prison of someone else's making. Searching for information about the dead woman brought her very close to the edge of the precipice where freefall was the only option. Walsh's writing brought out the desperation so clearly that I kept inspecting every line to get an inkling about the past.
Ah but soon my niggles came to light. Becca was not shown growing strong down the book except in the last 20%. She either drank and drank and drank or she fell unconscious. I am sure if I investigate, I would find that drinking led to her swooning with every information revealed to her. Ughhh...
Yet the book with its story kept me hooked for those 3 hours allowing me to escape into Becca's world with its familiar strangers.
May 19, 2019
One day, Becca visits her mother in the care home that she has been in since her early-onset Alzheimer’s deteriorated to the point where she needed full time professional care. During this visit, Nancy has a seemingly lucid moment where she declares that Becca isn’t her daughter, that she took her. This news is like a bolt from the blue for Becca, who has never suspected that her roots lie anywhere else than her family. As quick as the moment comes, Nancy disappears back into herself and cannot clarify the bombshell that she has landed. Becca is left confused by the whole situation and wonders rather this is nothing more than confusion from her mum, words that she didn’t mean – but there’s a part of her that is also questioning everything she knows.
To add to the difficulties that Becca is having with her mother’s health and her father’s subsequent withdrawal from enjoying anything in life – Becca receives a phone call from the police investigating the disappearance of a woman who was apparently off to find ‘Rebecca Wall’. A woman as to whom Becca has no recollection of every knowing or ever meeting. The police seem hell bent on proving that Becca is involved but unwilling to share any details with her.
Familiar Strangers is such a brilliant read, engaging right from the start with a brilliant, and at times completely annoying, protagonist. Becca is at times frustrating as she doesn’t help herself in her quest to find out the reason that Katie Collins went missing looking for her. What is clear is that there are lots of secrets but as to whether they are anything to do with Katie is far from clear.
Jackie Walsh’s writing makes you question everything and everyone – similarly to Becca, you are made to feel that everyone is a suspect! I got so drawn into the narrative and also wanted to know why Katie was searching for Becca and what happened to her that I pretty much read this book in one day – I just needed to keep reading, wanting to know more. I am so pleased that I had the opportunity to read this in a day (thanks to my husband’s cycling sportive!) as I definitely would not wanted to have put it down!
This is brimming with suspense and red herrings that takes its reader on the journey alongside Becca as the secrets unravel and the truth comes out. A fantastic read which I highly recommend – but make sure you have a clear diary to maximise your reading time!
To add to the difficulties that Becca is having with her mother’s health and her father’s subsequent withdrawal from enjoying anything in life – Becca receives a phone call from the police investigating the disappearance of a woman who was apparently off to find ‘Rebecca Wall’. A woman as to whom Becca has no recollection of every knowing or ever meeting. The police seem hell bent on proving that Becca is involved but unwilling to share any details with her.
Familiar Strangers is such a brilliant read, engaging right from the start with a brilliant, and at times completely annoying, protagonist. Becca is at times frustrating as she doesn’t help herself in her quest to find out the reason that Katie Collins went missing looking for her. What is clear is that there are lots of secrets but as to whether they are anything to do with Katie is far from clear.
Jackie Walsh’s writing makes you question everything and everyone – similarly to Becca, you are made to feel that everyone is a suspect! I got so drawn into the narrative and also wanted to know why Katie was searching for Becca and what happened to her that I pretty much read this book in one day – I just needed to keep reading, wanting to know more. I am so pleased that I had the opportunity to read this in a day (thanks to my husband’s cycling sportive!) as I definitely would not wanted to have put it down!
This is brimming with suspense and red herrings that takes its reader on the journey alongside Becca as the secrets unravel and the truth comes out. A fantastic read which I highly recommend – but make sure you have a clear diary to maximise your reading time!
May 27, 2019
Alzheimers is a absolutely horrible condition that not only robs people of their memories and identities but also forces their loved ones to witness the slow,cruel deterioration of the person that they love. As I get older,it is a condition that terrifies me especially when I have moments when I struggle to remember the names of objects or how to spell a word. Alzheimers and identity crisis are themes that run parallel throughout this fast paced,heart string pulling,gripping thriller.
Rebecca Wall's mother Nancy is in a care home,slowly deteriorating due to Alzheimers. Nancy does still have some lucid moments and it is during one of these rare moments when she informs Rebecca that she is not actually Nancy's daughter,that Nancy had taken her. Rebecca is convinced that Nancy is confused because of the Alzheimers and vows to just ignore what her mother said and get on with her life. Only fate has more shocks planned for Rebecca Wall and she soon finds herself coming to the attention of the police. A young women Katie Collins has been reported missing by her husband after apparently telling him that she was going to find Rebecca Wall and despite Rebecca insisting that she has no idea who Katie was, the police are convinced that Rebecca knows more than she is admitting.
The story follows Rebecca as she somewhat reluctantly at first tries to uncover the truth about her parentage whilst struggling with her doubts,the constant questioning by the police and the mental deterioration of both her mother and her father. Neither Rebecca nor the reader has any idea who she can trust as she encounters untrustworthy characters,betrayals and uncovers shocking secrets and lies. Rebecca was a flawed,complex character who I had mixed feelings about as the story unfolded. Sometimes I felt sympathy for her whilst at other times,her behaviour and indecisiveness were frustrating and I just wanted to reach into my kindle,grab her by the shoulders and give her a good shaking.
Familiar Strangers is packed full of twists and turns,red herrings, keeps the reader guessing and frantically turning the pages. The author has written about how Alzheimers affects the lives of sufferers and their loved ones with sensitivity, compassion and with heart breaking realism. I couldn't put this enthralling thriller down and look forward to reading more books by this author in the future. Very very highly recommended.
Many thanks to Hena Books and Sarah Hardy of Book On The Bright Side for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review and for the opportunity to take part in the Blog tour
Rebecca Wall's mother Nancy is in a care home,slowly deteriorating due to Alzheimers. Nancy does still have some lucid moments and it is during one of these rare moments when she informs Rebecca that she is not actually Nancy's daughter,that Nancy had taken her. Rebecca is convinced that Nancy is confused because of the Alzheimers and vows to just ignore what her mother said and get on with her life. Only fate has more shocks planned for Rebecca Wall and she soon finds herself coming to the attention of the police. A young women Katie Collins has been reported missing by her husband after apparently telling him that she was going to find Rebecca Wall and despite Rebecca insisting that she has no idea who Katie was, the police are convinced that Rebecca knows more than she is admitting.
The story follows Rebecca as she somewhat reluctantly at first tries to uncover the truth about her parentage whilst struggling with her doubts,the constant questioning by the police and the mental deterioration of both her mother and her father. Neither Rebecca nor the reader has any idea who she can trust as she encounters untrustworthy characters,betrayals and uncovers shocking secrets and lies. Rebecca was a flawed,complex character who I had mixed feelings about as the story unfolded. Sometimes I felt sympathy for her whilst at other times,her behaviour and indecisiveness were frustrating and I just wanted to reach into my kindle,grab her by the shoulders and give her a good shaking.
Familiar Strangers is packed full of twists and turns,red herrings, keeps the reader guessing and frantically turning the pages. The author has written about how Alzheimers affects the lives of sufferers and their loved ones with sensitivity, compassion and with heart breaking realism. I couldn't put this enthralling thriller down and look forward to reading more books by this author in the future. Very very highly recommended.
Many thanks to Hena Books and Sarah Hardy of Book On The Bright Side for a arc of this book in exchange for a honest review and for the opportunity to take part in the Blog tour
May 23, 2019
Edge of your seat book! Keeps you guessing. Becca’s mother is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. Becca, her father and brother Danny all are devastated by this. Nancy is in a care home. Becca visits her often taking care of her. One day Nancy drops a bomb telling her she’s not her daughter. Becca doesn’t believe it But then her life falls apart. Is it true or is it just rambling of a sick woman?
May 24, 2021
When caring for her mother who has alzimers she learns something very shocking. Her mother isn't her real mother, she was taken, and so starts the journey to learn the truth. It was terrible but didn't grab my attention or made me feel invested in the story.
May 6, 2019
'I took you Becca, you're not my daughter.'
I finished this book about 15mins ago and my heart is still racing!!!!
I was almost a little hesitant to start this book as Alzheimer’s is one of my worst fears and I wasnt sure I could handle a story based around it, I am so glad I gave the book a chance. It's less about the disease and more about the mad web of lies and trouble one little action can have.
It is SUCH a good mystery book, a real page turner, I couldn't stop thinking about the book when I was working my way through it and its definitely a book I'll remember having read for a long time.
I'd mark it a 6 out of 5 if I could.
I finished this book about 15mins ago and my heart is still racing!!!!
I was almost a little hesitant to start this book as Alzheimer’s is one of my worst fears and I wasnt sure I could handle a story based around it, I am so glad I gave the book a chance. It's less about the disease and more about the mad web of lies and trouble one little action can have.
It is SUCH a good mystery book, a real page turner, I couldn't stop thinking about the book when I was working my way through it and its definitely a book I'll remember having read for a long time.
I'd mark it a 6 out of 5 if I could.
May 23, 2019
When you read the title of this book, you see that it’s something that does not add up. How can a strangers be familiar I see you thinking (just as I did 😉 ), but afterwards you will realize it is possible and in my opinion a perfect match to the content.
Becca, the main character does not know what is happening in her life and I love the way the author has created this character. She is all over the place which shows the reader cleary how she is feeling. You can describe it of course, but to me by doing it this way it makes it more real and you feel more connected to the story.
Once again I did not suspect the culprit at all. I had somebody totally different in my head. When an author can ‘fool’ me like this, it means she wrote a very good story.
I have to admit when the plot is revealed, the murderer has made a lot of not so clever decisions, Although clever enough to mislead the police. On the other hand those mistakes are,of course, also the reason they were caught and no innocent people were put in jail.
The author has filled this story with lies, deceit and secrets. 4 stars.
Thank you, Jackie Walsh and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Becca, the main character does not know what is happening in her life and I love the way the author has created this character. She is all over the place which shows the reader cleary how she is feeling. You can describe it of course, but to me by doing it this way it makes it more real and you feel more connected to the story.
Once again I did not suspect the culprit at all. I had somebody totally different in my head. When an author can ‘fool’ me like this, it means she wrote a very good story.
I have to admit when the plot is revealed, the murderer has made a lot of not so clever decisions, Although clever enough to mislead the police. On the other hand those mistakes are,of course, also the reason they were caught and no innocent people were put in jail.
The author has filled this story with lies, deceit and secrets. 4 stars.
Thank you, Jackie Walsh and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
July 17, 2019
This book catch me right away. I was very glad I got a chance to read this book! I did not guess the ending. I loved all the suspense and I loved the ending I did not see coming. This was a great book! "This book was given to me for free at my request NetGalley and I provided this voluntary review."
May 26, 2019
Familiar Strangers is an excellent, page turner of a thriller. The prologue grabs you with it’s final line and from there it becomes a roller coaster ride.
Becca is written as a character who has friends and acquaintances, two jobs and a family who she sees regularly but still seems to live an almost lonely and solitary existence. Even from early on in the story we see Becca make some interesting and questionable decisions and as the plot moves forward this seems to continue. Jackie Walsh does an amazing job of projecting the main protagonist’s (Becca) emotions through her writing style. As the plot unravels, so does Becca and the writing becomes more frantic and paranoid – making sure you go through exactly the same emotions as Becca is feeling.
The plot itself is suspenseful and compulsive reading. The more you read the more suspicious everyone seems to be and the more paranoid you become. As Becca searched for answers regarding the murdered girl, I found it difficult to trust any character, making the narrative more intense as it moved forward. Small clues were given throughout the book but didn’t give anything away until everything fell into place and built into a climactic close.
Highly recommended for lovers of intense psychological thrillers.
Becca is written as a character who has friends and acquaintances, two jobs and a family who she sees regularly but still seems to live an almost lonely and solitary existence. Even from early on in the story we see Becca make some interesting and questionable decisions and as the plot moves forward this seems to continue. Jackie Walsh does an amazing job of projecting the main protagonist’s (Becca) emotions through her writing style. As the plot unravels, so does Becca and the writing becomes more frantic and paranoid – making sure you go through exactly the same emotions as Becca is feeling.
The plot itself is suspenseful and compulsive reading. The more you read the more suspicious everyone seems to be and the more paranoid you become. As Becca searched for answers regarding the murdered girl, I found it difficult to trust any character, making the narrative more intense as it moved forward. Small clues were given throughout the book but didn’t give anything away until everything fell into place and built into a climactic close.
Highly recommended for lovers of intense psychological thrillers.
May 20, 2019
Familiar Strangers is a really intriguing debut which really grabbed me from the first chapter.
I instantly warmed to Becca. She’s a little directionless, working in dead ends jobs, just living day to day. Her fragile world is sent into a tailspin when her mother, who is suffering from early onset Alzheimer’s, says that she’s not her daughter, she took her as a baby.
On top of that she gets questioned about the disappearance of a woman called Katie Collins, who the police believe was looking for her. She sets about looking for answers, with a few questionable decisions along the way. But what will she do when she finds out the truth?
This is such a good psychological thriller, the right amount of mystery and interesting characters which had me really emotionally invested in what happened to them.
I will say I would have liked a little more from the ending, I felt there wasn’t enough of the aftermath of the killer reveal but of course that’s just me nitpicking.
I’d recommend Familiar Strangers to anyone who likes a quality psychological thriller with great pace and tension that doesn’t let up throughout.
Can’t wait to see what Jackie Walsh does next!
I instantly warmed to Becca. She’s a little directionless, working in dead ends jobs, just living day to day. Her fragile world is sent into a tailspin when her mother, who is suffering from early onset Alzheimer’s, says that she’s not her daughter, she took her as a baby.
On top of that she gets questioned about the disappearance of a woman called Katie Collins, who the police believe was looking for her. She sets about looking for answers, with a few questionable decisions along the way. But what will she do when she finds out the truth?
This is such a good psychological thriller, the right amount of mystery and interesting characters which had me really emotionally invested in what happened to them.
I will say I would have liked a little more from the ending, I felt there wasn’t enough of the aftermath of the killer reveal but of course that’s just me nitpicking.
I’d recommend Familiar Strangers to anyone who likes a quality psychological thriller with great pace and tension that doesn’t let up throughout.
Can’t wait to see what Jackie Walsh does next!
October 12, 2021
This is the author's debut novel and a really good psychological thriller.
I enjoyed reading this book. There are plenty of characters to lead you up the garden path as the story progresses. As a secret is uncovered and Becca learns the truth about her family history, it makes you wonder if you'd want to know such truths or to continue living, believing things were as they were.
I did wonder how capable a 3 year old would actually be of doing what the youngster did in the story, but without their actions there wouldn't be the consequences that led to the events of the present day. Overall though, an interesting and enjoyable read.
I enjoyed reading this book. There are plenty of characters to lead you up the garden path as the story progresses. As a secret is uncovered and Becca learns the truth about her family history, it makes you wonder if you'd want to know such truths or to continue living, believing things were as they were.
I did wonder how capable a 3 year old would actually be of doing what the youngster did in the story, but without their actions there wouldn't be the consequences that led to the events of the present day. Overall though, an interesting and enjoyable read.
June 6, 2019
This book whips along at a cracking pace as Becca finds herself at the middle of a murder mystery. I thought the premise was so intriguing - her mum telling her that she took her. Hmmm, tell me more! I found Becca a difficult person to relate to, although given her personal situation, with her mum suffering from early onset Alzheimer's, I can see why she was all over the place, but it all got a little frantic in parts and her decision-making was inconsistent to say the least!. Putting that aside, it's a great read as all the elements of this clever plot come together.
May 28, 2019
‘I took you, Becca. You’re not my daughter.’
That one sentence can ruin your whole world, a world you believe to be true…. for your whole life…. but is it true? Or is the illness that Becca’s Mother is suffering from affecting her momory, playing tricks on her mind? Or is she speaking the truth?!
Poor Becca, as if she hasn’t got enough on her plat without her Mother saying those 8 tiny words, 8 tiny words that throw her life into chaos. I really felt for Becca, a mother in a care home, a Dad that doesn’t seem to be able to cope with the whole situation and a brother that I took an instant dislike to.
So much is going on and then everything collides, Im surprised she held it all together as long as she did!
I enjoyed how the author integrated all the characters into the story, and how she slowly pulled all the threads together. I was turning those pages deep into the night, the chapters are short so one chapter ended up leading to 7 before I put it down.
Its edgy, dark in places and has you thinking the whole way through. I had everyone down as a suspect and I so didn’t see the end coming!
I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
That one sentence can ruin your whole world, a world you believe to be true…. for your whole life…. but is it true? Or is the illness that Becca’s Mother is suffering from affecting her momory, playing tricks on her mind? Or is she speaking the truth?!
Poor Becca, as if she hasn’t got enough on her plat without her Mother saying those 8 tiny words, 8 tiny words that throw her life into chaos. I really felt for Becca, a mother in a care home, a Dad that doesn’t seem to be able to cope with the whole situation and a brother that I took an instant dislike to.
So much is going on and then everything collides, Im surprised she held it all together as long as she did!
I enjoyed how the author integrated all the characters into the story, and how she slowly pulled all the threads together. I was turning those pages deep into the night, the chapters are short so one chapter ended up leading to 7 before I put it down.
Its edgy, dark in places and has you thinking the whole way through. I had everyone down as a suspect and I so didn’t see the end coming!
I look forward to seeing what this author brings us next.
May 16, 2019
This is a Good debut. Ms. Walsh did a really good job there.
The book was intriguing and for sure I didn't expect the ending that was put there which was a good surprise.
So why only three stars? Because I couldn't follow the plot easily due to the type of narration - like Becca's mind was ALMOST EVERYWHERE and that hadn't lead me into the book without any problems. Also, Becca wasn't an exactly loveable character in the end. I was intrigued by what was going on but not exactly what had happened to her.
I have high hopes for the next book written by Ms. Walsh as this one was good for a debut.
The book was intriguing and for sure I didn't expect the ending that was put there which was a good surprise.
So why only three stars? Because I couldn't follow the plot easily due to the type of narration - like Becca's mind was ALMOST EVERYWHERE and that hadn't lead me into the book without any problems. Also, Becca wasn't an exactly loveable character in the end. I was intrigued by what was going on but not exactly what had happened to her.
I have high hopes for the next book written by Ms. Walsh as this one was good for a debut.
May 21, 2019
Familiar Strangers by Jackie Walsh
Digging in the dirt and digging for dirt...that is pretty much what anchors this story of a woman who seems a bit lost while she deals with the slow death her mother faces dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease. It wasn’t easy liking Rebecca due to the choices she made throughout the story – choices that to me were destructive but also perhaps a cry for help. There is not enough about her life “before” to really know why she is in the jobs she has or why she has made the questionable choices she has made. She has an ill mother, aging father, brother and pregnant sister-in-law but no real friends or goals or aspirations that I could ascertain.
When she is approached by the police about a missing woman she wonders why. She wonders even more when the woman turns up dead and the police are still asking questions. The mystery of who Katie Collins is and why someone would want to kill her is what Rebecca begins to focus on. The question of motivation and all the rest is eventually sussed out but in the end Rebecca still remains a bit of an amorphous character to me and I wonder just what she will choose to do with her life in the future.
What I liked:
* Not really knowing till near the end who the killer was
* The plotting and pace
* The feeling of mystery and darkness
* Jeff – although I am not sure why he became involved in helping Rebecca
What I didn’t like: What I was supposed not to like...and that is as it should be
What I wondered about at the end:
* Rebecca – would have liked to know her better
* Where both Rebecca’s and Katie’s mothers were and why they were such lax parents
* And...a few other things
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley, Hera and BOTSB for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
Digging in the dirt and digging for dirt...that is pretty much what anchors this story of a woman who seems a bit lost while she deals with the slow death her mother faces dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease. It wasn’t easy liking Rebecca due to the choices she made throughout the story – choices that to me were destructive but also perhaps a cry for help. There is not enough about her life “before” to really know why she is in the jobs she has or why she has made the questionable choices she has made. She has an ill mother, aging father, brother and pregnant sister-in-law but no real friends or goals or aspirations that I could ascertain.
When she is approached by the police about a missing woman she wonders why. She wonders even more when the woman turns up dead and the police are still asking questions. The mystery of who Katie Collins is and why someone would want to kill her is what Rebecca begins to focus on. The question of motivation and all the rest is eventually sussed out but in the end Rebecca still remains a bit of an amorphous character to me and I wonder just what she will choose to do with her life in the future.
What I liked:
* Not really knowing till near the end who the killer was
* The plotting and pace
* The feeling of mystery and darkness
* Jeff – although I am not sure why he became involved in helping Rebecca
What I didn’t like: What I was supposed not to like...and that is as it should be
What I wondered about at the end:
* Rebecca – would have liked to know her better
* Where both Rebecca’s and Katie’s mothers were and why they were such lax parents
* And...a few other things
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley, Hera and BOTSB for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
May 22, 2019
OMG! Alzheimer’s is a terrible condition that robs people of their lives, leaving their family to grieve for their loss of that person way before they die. Becca had watched the mum that had loved her all her life slip away from her a little more every day with only rare moments of recognition. One of her mum’s moments of clarity took away everything real for Becca. Just five words, “You are not my daughter”. Then her mum was lost again in her own world. I felt like a tidal wave had hit me! I read it again, surely it was part of her mum’s illness.
When a woman goes missing Becca is drawn into another world of uncertainty. This book was really giving me an uneasiness that I don’t normally feel. I couldn’t help but put myself in Becca’s shoes but when I did the rush of emotions were so very overwhelming. What begins as a little digging into the past soon gets to a point of no return, so many times I wished her to stop and hold onto what she had.
What incredible characters there are in this story, that even now just won’t leave me alone. I absolutely loved the corkscrew of events that took me much deeper and much darker than I could have thought possible. I had a huge tissue moment that I don’t think I will ever forget. I didn’t want to put this book down and yet at times I felt that I needed to stop this nightmare swimming round in my mind. What a story!
Becca is an incredible character that feels so alive, every explosive emotion captured and transferred to me. This is a massive must read. Shocking! Devastating! Deadly and utterly mind-blowing!
I wish to thank the publisher and NetGalley for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
When a woman goes missing Becca is drawn into another world of uncertainty. This book was really giving me an uneasiness that I don’t normally feel. I couldn’t help but put myself in Becca’s shoes but when I did the rush of emotions were so very overwhelming. What begins as a little digging into the past soon gets to a point of no return, so many times I wished her to stop and hold onto what she had.
What incredible characters there are in this story, that even now just won’t leave me alone. I absolutely loved the corkscrew of events that took me much deeper and much darker than I could have thought possible. I had a huge tissue moment that I don’t think I will ever forget. I didn’t want to put this book down and yet at times I felt that I needed to stop this nightmare swimming round in my mind. What a story!
Becca is an incredible character that feels so alive, every explosive emotion captured and transferred to me. This is a massive must read. Shocking! Devastating! Deadly and utterly mind-blowing!
I wish to thank the publisher and NetGalley for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
May 22, 2019
Rebecca Hall’s mum is in a care home, she has Alzheimer’s and her good days are now being overtaken by the bad ones. Some days she doesn’t recognise Becca at all and it’s heartbreaking….
On one of her lucid moments she tells Becca, ‘You’re not my daughter, I took s was just the dementia talking…..wasn’t it?…..
Shaken and upset, Becca returns home but feels someone has been in her apartment….but nothing is missing and even her neighbour, Jeff thinks she may be imagining it….
Watching TV she sees news of a missing woman, Katie Collins….why does she look familiar?
When Katie’s body is found, the police have questions for Becca, but she knows nothing and is left with many many questions…..her life begins to unravel, she doesn’t know who she is any more…
This is a mix of family drama and thriller and Jackie Walsh has written an empathetic description of the horrendous disease, that is Alzheimer’s (my own mother has this and I know how heartbreaking it is to see the person you know slowly disappear)..
The clever writing also makes you wonder just how far we would go to protect our children, it also shows how Becca’s life starts to fall apart, losing her job, her home and almost her sanity. A totally engrossing thriller, with many suspects that will keep you guessing right to the very end….I loved every minute and can recommend this unreservedly…
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
On one of her lucid moments she tells Becca, ‘You’re not my daughter, I took s was just the dementia talking…..wasn’t it?…..
Shaken and upset, Becca returns home but feels someone has been in her apartment….but nothing is missing and even her neighbour, Jeff thinks she may be imagining it….
Watching TV she sees news of a missing woman, Katie Collins….why does she look familiar?
When Katie’s body is found, the police have questions for Becca, but she knows nothing and is left with many many questions…..her life begins to unravel, she doesn’t know who she is any more…
This is a mix of family drama and thriller and Jackie Walsh has written an empathetic description of the horrendous disease, that is Alzheimer’s (my own mother has this and I know how heartbreaking it is to see the person you know slowly disappear)..
The clever writing also makes you wonder just how far we would go to protect our children, it also shows how Becca’s life starts to fall apart, losing her job, her home and almost her sanity. A totally engrossing thriller, with many suspects that will keep you guessing right to the very end….I loved every minute and can recommend this unreservedly…
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
May 12, 2019
As Becca’s mother’s health rapidly declines after suffering from Alzheimer’s, she lets out an extraordinary secret that turns Becca’s world upside down. She stole Becca from her real family when she was a baby. But is what her mother saying the truth? How can Becca be sure without proof? And when she finds out that a young woman has been trying to make contact with her, does this mean that she has been lied to for her whole life? And when she finds out that this woman has been killed as she has been trying to get in contact with her, she becomes even more determined to find out the truth. Just what have her family been keeping from her, and would they really go as far to murder someone to keep it covered up?
Familiar Strangers is a thriller that will keep you invested in Becca’s story as she tries to find out the truth about her past. There’s a very chilling opening paragraph in which we see a person digging furtively in the dirt until they come across a sinister discovery. But what have they exactly found? I thought the opening was done very well. Jackie Walsh writes really well and I sped through this as I raced to find out just what had happened in Becca’s past and if her mother was telling the truth. It is a very quick read, and there are lots of high moments of tension as Becca herself investigates what has happened and as she becomes a person of interest in an investigation.
Becca’s pain really came through, I could feel how distraught she was as she got closer and closer to the truth. And as she did begin to finally understand what had happened to her as an infant, her own relationship with her mother, the woman who raised her, crumbles and this comes at a pivotal moment for their family. I think this is what made this book so gripping, is that I wanted to follow Becca’s story and learn the truth about what had happened to her. I could totally understand why Becca was feeling the way she did, you can’t imagine what this would do to you if you were put in her situation. This book did have me thinking if I was in Becca’s shoes, would I want to know the whole truth about what had happened to me? Or would I prefer just to continue living my life as though I hadn’t heard anything? And there are some dark secrets which are later revealed. Some parts of this book were heartbreaking to read.
Familiar Strangers has an utterly captivating plot, and I was drawn further and further into the story as it progressed, I was kept guessing all the way through. It’s really well written; Jackie Walsh is a new writer to me who will certainly be on my radar. This book definitely comes recommended from me.
Familiar Strangers is a thriller that will keep you invested in Becca’s story as she tries to find out the truth about her past. There’s a very chilling opening paragraph in which we see a person digging furtively in the dirt until they come across a sinister discovery. But what have they exactly found? I thought the opening was done very well. Jackie Walsh writes really well and I sped through this as I raced to find out just what had happened in Becca’s past and if her mother was telling the truth. It is a very quick read, and there are lots of high moments of tension as Becca herself investigates what has happened and as she becomes a person of interest in an investigation.
Becca’s pain really came through, I could feel how distraught she was as she got closer and closer to the truth. And as she did begin to finally understand what had happened to her as an infant, her own relationship with her mother, the woman who raised her, crumbles and this comes at a pivotal moment for their family. I think this is what made this book so gripping, is that I wanted to follow Becca’s story and learn the truth about what had happened to her. I could totally understand why Becca was feeling the way she did, you can’t imagine what this would do to you if you were put in her situation. This book did have me thinking if I was in Becca’s shoes, would I want to know the whole truth about what had happened to me? Or would I prefer just to continue living my life as though I hadn’t heard anything? And there are some dark secrets which are later revealed. Some parts of this book were heartbreaking to read.
Familiar Strangers has an utterly captivating plot, and I was drawn further and further into the story as it progressed, I was kept guessing all the way through. It’s really well written; Jackie Walsh is a new writer to me who will certainly be on my radar. This book definitely comes recommended from me.
December 3, 2021
Wasn’t interested in the plot at all unfortunately. I wish it was a bit more scaring to me. However, quite nice portrayal of the emotional responses involved in dealing with a loved one battling with Alzheimer’s.
December 25, 2022
Really enjoyed this book! Great for a debut novel. Looking forward to more from this author
May 25, 2022
This book was addictive and compelling, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I couldn’t put it down!
June 9, 2019
Overall, this was a pretty good quick read.
Becca, the narrator, is a bit lost in life. She is not making ends meet which is not surprising since work seems to be an option for her. She doesn’t seem to have any friends other than Jeff, who lives in the same building. Romance? None to speak of other than a really poor choice for a hookup. Still she grew on me...
The premise is a good one and it was executed pretty well. There aren’t too many key players so the mystery seems pretty cut and dry. It’s not really though, and the reveal keeps you waiting to the bitter end. Satisfying? Not bad, but I was hoping for a bit more crazy and dark (reflection on me🙄).
The writing is good, the characters are well layered and the pace was decent. I looked at the author profile and it supplies nothing but I’m guessing she’s from the UK? At the 3/4 mark in this book some of the slang and phrasing definitely read like it. It didn’t detract and if you don’t read much from English authors you might not even notice it... Pretty entertaining, I would read more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Hera Books for a copy in exchange for a review.
Becca, the narrator, is a bit lost in life. She is not making ends meet which is not surprising since work seems to be an option for her. She doesn’t seem to have any friends other than Jeff, who lives in the same building. Romance? None to speak of other than a really poor choice for a hookup. Still she grew on me...
The premise is a good one and it was executed pretty well. There aren’t too many key players so the mystery seems pretty cut and dry. It’s not really though, and the reveal keeps you waiting to the bitter end. Satisfying? Not bad, but I was hoping for a bit more crazy and dark (reflection on me🙄).
The writing is good, the characters are well layered and the pace was decent. I looked at the author profile and it supplies nothing but I’m guessing she’s from the UK? At the 3/4 mark in this book some of the slang and phrasing definitely read like it. It didn’t detract and if you don’t read much from English authors you might not even notice it... Pretty entertaining, I would read more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Hera Books for a copy in exchange for a review.
May 26, 2019
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
‘Familiar Strangers’ has such a lot of promise. As an intense read, Jackie Walsh has that bang on. I mean, with a line coming out of Becca’s mothers mouth being, ‘I took you, Becca. You’re not my daughter.’, it really could not be anything other than intense. I don’t know about you, but those eight words sent tingles up and down my spine.
As an emotive read, again, Jackie Walsh nails that element as well because the storyline also deals with the turmoil behind early onset Alzheimers and the effects it has both on the person, and the family. Those parts of the book aren’t easy to read, and I am sure that they aren’t very easy to live through either, however I am very glad that I was able to have my eyes opened to such a heartbreaking illness. I wish there was more help for the sufferers and their families. I cannot even begin to imagine how emotional seeing your loved one going through that must be.
However, like I said at the star, the book has a lot of promise. For me, I found the way everything was brought together wasn’t as tight as it could have been. There was a lot of scene setting and less actual action. I know that scenes need to be set in order for the storyline to work, I just felt that there was more descriptions about what Becca did daily, instead of the nitty gritty details such as Katie Collins. I also found the ending to be a little bit rushed which was a shame.
Aside from that, I enjoyed the complex family dynamics, the intense relationships, and the uncertainty between each of the characters. I thought that the psychological element of the book was utterly brilliant and left my mind in absolute turmoil. I think that Jackie Walsh has an incredible, incredible talent that I cannot wait to see grow as she releases more books.
‘Familiar Strangers’ has such a lot of promise. As an intense read, Jackie Walsh has that bang on. I mean, with a line coming out of Becca’s mothers mouth being, ‘I took you, Becca. You’re not my daughter.’, it really could not be anything other than intense. I don’t know about you, but those eight words sent tingles up and down my spine.
As an emotive read, again, Jackie Walsh nails that element as well because the storyline also deals with the turmoil behind early onset Alzheimers and the effects it has both on the person, and the family. Those parts of the book aren’t easy to read, and I am sure that they aren’t very easy to live through either, however I am very glad that I was able to have my eyes opened to such a heartbreaking illness. I wish there was more help for the sufferers and their families. I cannot even begin to imagine how emotional seeing your loved one going through that must be.
However, like I said at the star, the book has a lot of promise. For me, I found the way everything was brought together wasn’t as tight as it could have been. There was a lot of scene setting and less actual action. I know that scenes need to be set in order for the storyline to work, I just felt that there was more descriptions about what Becca did daily, instead of the nitty gritty details such as Katie Collins. I also found the ending to be a little bit rushed which was a shame.
Aside from that, I enjoyed the complex family dynamics, the intense relationships, and the uncertainty between each of the characters. I thought that the psychological element of the book was utterly brilliant and left my mind in absolute turmoil. I think that Jackie Walsh has an incredible, incredible talent that I cannot wait to see grow as she releases more books.
May 27, 2019
‘I took you, Becca. You’re not my daughter.’
Since Becca Wall’s mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, every day Becca loses a little more of the loving, caring mother who would do anything for her only daughter. But when one day Nancy Wall confesses that Becca is not her child, her world falls apart.
Becca tells herself that the words are just a cruel symptom of Nancy’s illness; after all, she has her birth certificate, and pictures of herself as a newborn along with her Mom, Dad and older brother, Danny. Becca tries to forget, to get on with her life – until the day the police question her about the whereabouts of a missing woman, Katie Collins.
Katie has disappeared without a trace, telling her husband that she is leaving to find Rebecca Wall. But Becca doesn’t know Katie, so it’s a case of mistaken identity – isn’t it? But as Becca discovers why Katie was desperate to find her, the lies that Becca has always believed come crashing down. Soon, it’s clear that someone knows the truth – and that they’ll stop at nothing to keep their secrets…
This is a mix of family drama and thriller and Jackie Walsh has written an empathetic description of the horrendous disease, that is Alzheimer’s.
This is such a good psychological thriller, the right amount of mystery and interesting characters which had me really emotionally invested in what happened to them.
Such wonderfully written characters that you can see it all unfold before your eyes.
I love the story line and plot and I did not see the twist at the end coming.
This is an excellent debut novel that definitley brought me to tears.
Recommend reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC . This is my own honest voluntary review.
Since Becca Wall’s mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, every day Becca loses a little more of the loving, caring mother who would do anything for her only daughter. But when one day Nancy Wall confesses that Becca is not her child, her world falls apart.
Becca tells herself that the words are just a cruel symptom of Nancy’s illness; after all, she has her birth certificate, and pictures of herself as a newborn along with her Mom, Dad and older brother, Danny. Becca tries to forget, to get on with her life – until the day the police question her about the whereabouts of a missing woman, Katie Collins.
Katie has disappeared without a trace, telling her husband that she is leaving to find Rebecca Wall. But Becca doesn’t know Katie, so it’s a case of mistaken identity – isn’t it? But as Becca discovers why Katie was desperate to find her, the lies that Becca has always believed come crashing down. Soon, it’s clear that someone knows the truth – and that they’ll stop at nothing to keep their secrets…
This is a mix of family drama and thriller and Jackie Walsh has written an empathetic description of the horrendous disease, that is Alzheimer’s.
This is such a good psychological thriller, the right amount of mystery and interesting characters which had me really emotionally invested in what happened to them.
Such wonderfully written characters that you can see it all unfold before your eyes.
I love the story line and plot and I did not see the twist at the end coming.
This is an excellent debut novel that definitley brought me to tears.
Recommend reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC . This is my own honest voluntary review.
May 28, 2019
What a brilliant debut – I was completely gripped from beginning to end!
Becca’s Mum is in a care home suffering from early on-set Alzheimer’s and Becca visits her all the time. But one day her Mum suddenly blurts out that she’s not her daughter, and that she had taken her……The comment rocks Becca’s world but she’s convinced that’s not true.
The DI Turner starts questioning her about a woman called Katie Collins who has recently gone missing, and is apparently looking for her. Becca has no idea who this person is and why they would be looking for her but the Detective doesn’t appear to be convinced and keeps on at her….so she decides she must do some digging to find out why? Why would Katie be looking for her?
As Becca’s world collapses around her, an unbelievable tale unravels……..and the ending will blow you away!
This storyline is fantastic! You’re on this amazingly complicated, twisted journey with Becca as she tries to uncover the truth….but there are so many other things that happen along the way. I went through convinced it was one person, then another and only near the very end did I kind of change my mind and got it right!
There are so many twists and turns that you will want to keep reading, to find out what is actually happening! Who is Katie? Why is she looking for Becca? What do her family know? And where is Katie now?
The characters are fantastic, and the writing style is clear and easy to read and follow. This is an absolutely brilliant debut and I’m desperately looking forward to more from this author! She’s one to watch!
Becca’s Mum is in a care home suffering from early on-set Alzheimer’s and Becca visits her all the time. But one day her Mum suddenly blurts out that she’s not her daughter, and that she had taken her……The comment rocks Becca’s world but she’s convinced that’s not true.
The DI Turner starts questioning her about a woman called Katie Collins who has recently gone missing, and is apparently looking for her. Becca has no idea who this person is and why they would be looking for her but the Detective doesn’t appear to be convinced and keeps on at her….so she decides she must do some digging to find out why? Why would Katie be looking for her?
As Becca’s world collapses around her, an unbelievable tale unravels……..and the ending will blow you away!
This storyline is fantastic! You’re on this amazingly complicated, twisted journey with Becca as she tries to uncover the truth….but there are so many other things that happen along the way. I went through convinced it was one person, then another and only near the very end did I kind of change my mind and got it right!
There are so many twists and turns that you will want to keep reading, to find out what is actually happening! Who is Katie? Why is she looking for Becca? What do her family know? And where is Katie now?
The characters are fantastic, and the writing style is clear and easy to read and follow. This is an absolutely brilliant debut and I’m desperately looking forward to more from this author! She’s one to watch!
May 23, 2019
Rebeca Wall has been working two dead end jobs just to pay for her apartment and dealing with her mother’s Alzheimer’s which has gotten to the point that she has to be in around the clock care. On a visit with her mother, Becca’s mother tells her that she is not her daughter, that she was taken. Becca is shaken and is wondering if she really was someone else’s child or if this is part of the Alzheimer’s.
When Becca gets home she thinks someone has been in her house. It’s not obvious, just minor things that seem to be out of place. Then the police ask her about a missing woman, Katie Collins. Becca has only hear of that name from the television but when Katie’s body is found along with a note with Becca’s name on it the police take more of an interest in Becca.
This was an interesting read. I was instantly curious about Becca and the possibility of her being someone else’s child. But then the whole investigation into Katie’s death really had me curious. I was on the edge of my seat and turning pages as fast as possible to see what was going to happen next. I was kept guessing about the killer right to the end, which I just loved.
I do have to say that I didn’t really like Becca. She made some really stupid choices and although the mystery had me engaged I didn’t really care what happened to her. Now having said that, this is a great story and the first one of Jackie Walsh’s that I have read. I will definitely be checking out her other books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
When Becca gets home she thinks someone has been in her house. It’s not obvious, just minor things that seem to be out of place. Then the police ask her about a missing woman, Katie Collins. Becca has only hear of that name from the television but when Katie’s body is found along with a note with Becca’s name on it the police take more of an interest in Becca.
This was an interesting read. I was instantly curious about Becca and the possibility of her being someone else’s child. But then the whole investigation into Katie’s death really had me curious. I was on the edge of my seat and turning pages as fast as possible to see what was going to happen next. I was kept guessing about the killer right to the end, which I just loved.
I do have to say that I didn’t really like Becca. She made some really stupid choices and although the mystery had me engaged I didn’t really care what happened to her. Now having said that, this is a great story and the first one of Jackie Walsh’s that I have read. I will definitely be checking out her other books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
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