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The Village #3
One Of Us
‘Leave, or die.’
Jess Dyer has won safety for her sister-in-law Ruth and proved her worth as the leader of her refugee community.
Sarah Evans has stood up to her parents and discovered who she can trust.
But the villagers still aren’t welcome. When the local population expresses its anger, can Jess keep everyone safe? And can she hold it together as Steward when someone she loves dies?
And how will Sarah react when her new fiancee Martin receives death threats, telling him he must leave her, and their village?
'One Of Us' is a gripping thriller about belonging and acceptance. It’s the third book in the Village trilogy, and the sequel to Sea Of Lies.
Jess Dyer has won safety for her sister-in-law Ruth and proved her worth as the leader of her refugee community.
Sarah Evans has stood up to her parents and discovered who she can trust.
But the villagers still aren’t welcome. When the local population expresses its anger, can Jess keep everyone safe? And can she hold it together as Steward when someone she loves dies?
And how will Sarah react when her new fiancee Martin receives death threats, telling him he must leave her, and their village?
'One Of Us' is a gripping thriller about belonging and acceptance. It’s the third book in the Village trilogy, and the sequel to Sea Of Lies.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2019
79 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Rachel McLean
108 books618 followersMy name's Rachel McLean and I write stories you can't put down, with characters you'll be rooting for.
I'm best known for my Dorset Crime series, which has sold over a million copies. The first book in that series, The Corfe Castle Murders, won the 2021 Kindle Storyteller Award.
Here's what Clare Balding (the lead judge) had to say about the book:
'I particularly enjoyed the detail of the landscape and the humorous oddities of Dorset life. I enjoyed the richness of the characters, complexity of life for a working mother who is thrown into a new environment and has to prove herself, all over again.'
But The Corfe Castle Murders is by no means my only book. I've published five series and am working on two new ones, all of which connect. You'll find characters from each series in one or more of the other ones, so you (and I) get to follow them as they take on new challenges.
For example:
DCI Lesley Clarke is Zoe's boss in the DI Zoe Finch series and then moves to Dorset where she becomes the star of the Dorset Crime series.
DS Mo Uddin is Zoe's best friend and sidekick, then moves to Scotland for the McBride & Tanner series.
DC Tina Abbott is a key character in the Dorset Crime series and plays an important role in the new Lyme Regis Women's Swimming Club series of mysteries which stars her mum, Annie.
Zaf Williams starts off in the DI Zoe Finch series then moves to London and is one of the stars of the London Cosy Mysteries series (along with his colleague Diana and Gus the cat).
Dr Petra McBride appears in no fewer than three series and I'm planning a new series for her in 2026.
And not to be outdone, Zoe Finch has two series in which she stars: the DI Zoe Finch series of 'Deadly' books, and the Cumbria Crime series.
Once you get to know these characters, you'll find plenty of books to keep you entertained. And I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.
You can read a full list of the series and books on my books page. Each series is designed to be read in order but which series you go for first is really up to you.
I'm best known for my Dorset Crime series, which has sold over a million copies. The first book in that series, The Corfe Castle Murders, won the 2021 Kindle Storyteller Award.
Here's what Clare Balding (the lead judge) had to say about the book:
'I particularly enjoyed the detail of the landscape and the humorous oddities of Dorset life. I enjoyed the richness of the characters, complexity of life for a working mother who is thrown into a new environment and has to prove herself, all over again.'
But The Corfe Castle Murders is by no means my only book. I've published five series and am working on two new ones, all of which connect. You'll find characters from each series in one or more of the other ones, so you (and I) get to follow them as they take on new challenges.
For example:
DCI Lesley Clarke is Zoe's boss in the DI Zoe Finch series and then moves to Dorset where she becomes the star of the Dorset Crime series.
DS Mo Uddin is Zoe's best friend and sidekick, then moves to Scotland for the McBride & Tanner series.
DC Tina Abbott is a key character in the Dorset Crime series and plays an important role in the new Lyme Regis Women's Swimming Club series of mysteries which stars her mum, Annie.
Zaf Williams starts off in the DI Zoe Finch series then moves to London and is one of the stars of the London Cosy Mysteries series (along with his colleague Diana and Gus the cat).
Dr Petra McBride appears in no fewer than three series and I'm planning a new series for her in 2026.
And not to be outdone, Zoe Finch has two series in which she stars: the DI Zoe Finch series of 'Deadly' books, and the Cumbria Crime series.
Once you get to know these characters, you'll find plenty of books to keep you entertained. And I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.
You can read a full list of the series and books on my books page. Each series is designed to be read in order but which series you go for first is really up to you.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 18, 2019
ONE OF US is a psychological dystopian thriller and book three in the Village series and sequel to Sea of Lies by author Rachel McLean. While this book would read well as a standalone book, I recommend reading all three novels in this trilogy in sequence, to gain a better appreciation of the development of the characters as well as their journey. Having loved the previous two books, I was looking forward to reading the third novel in this series.
The books in the Village Series include:
1) Thicker Than Water (Debut Novel)
2) Sea of Lies
3) One Of Us
In Book 1 Thicker Than Water, this dystopian thriller is set in the future where the UK has been devastated by the destruction that the flood has caused. Jess Dryer, her brother Ben and his wife(vet/doctor) Ruth have found safety in a small village. The community has its own laws and rules, and rationing of food and supplies is a given. But Jess’s decision to answer a SOS at sea brings three strangers into their community. Four women including Ruth are kidnapped and Jess tries to calm down the community while organizing a rescue mission.
In Book 2 Sea of Lies, Sarah Evans is dealing with the aftermath of the abduction, and coming to terms with her feelings for Martin, one of the kidnappers that changed, and helped her escape…because he has fallen in love with her. In this novel we also learn more about her parents, her mother, Dawn and abusive father and their relationship.
Now in Book 3 One of Us, Jess has provided both safety to her sister-in-law Ruth, and shown that she is a true leader to govern her refugee community.
Sarah has stood up to her parents and now knows who she can trust.
But the villagers are still not welcome. Jess must try to diffuse some of this anger, and keep everyone safe.
How will Sarah react when her new fiancée Martin receives death threats, telling him he must leave her, and their village?
‘Leave, or die.’
“Is anywhere safe?”
While this trilogy is written in the future, it allows the reader to reflect on our own humanity with all its qualities and flaws, and to think about our future faced with this same dilemma.
Many thanks to the author and the TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
The books in the Village Series include:
1) Thicker Than Water (Debut Novel)
2) Sea of Lies
3) One Of Us
In Book 1 Thicker Than Water, this dystopian thriller is set in the future where the UK has been devastated by the destruction that the flood has caused. Jess Dryer, her brother Ben and his wife(vet/doctor) Ruth have found safety in a small village. The community has its own laws and rules, and rationing of food and supplies is a given. But Jess’s decision to answer a SOS at sea brings three strangers into their community. Four women including Ruth are kidnapped and Jess tries to calm down the community while organizing a rescue mission.
In Book 2 Sea of Lies, Sarah Evans is dealing with the aftermath of the abduction, and coming to terms with her feelings for Martin, one of the kidnappers that changed, and helped her escape…because he has fallen in love with her. In this novel we also learn more about her parents, her mother, Dawn and abusive father and their relationship.
Now in Book 3 One of Us, Jess has provided both safety to her sister-in-law Ruth, and shown that she is a true leader to govern her refugee community.
Sarah has stood up to her parents and now knows who she can trust.
But the villagers are still not welcome. Jess must try to diffuse some of this anger, and keep everyone safe.
How will Sarah react when her new fiancée Martin receives death threats, telling him he must leave her, and their village?
‘Leave, or die.’
“Is anywhere safe?”
While this trilogy is written in the future, it allows the reader to reflect on our own humanity with all its qualities and flaws, and to think about our future faced with this same dilemma.
Many thanks to the author and the TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
August 4, 2019
Before I give you my review, I have to say that I have read and reviewed the previous books in this series and I highly recommend you all to read the first and second book before this one to get the full experience.
Yet again, I'm back to the village and to see what the characters are doing now and with this new novel in the series, I'm left overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions. That's the power of Rachel McLean's writing. She can make us focus so much on the story that it almost feels like we are there, living it; at least that's what it was like for me.
Of course, it follows after the previous book "Sea of Lies" and the characters that we have met before, Jess, Ruth, Sarah and all the others. Some problems still happen and they have to deal with them, and we keep getting some growth of the characters and uncover new information and get the answers we were looking for.
I won't go into many details at all because I'm afraid I will give out spoilers about the other books as well as this one. I have to say that I loved this book and how it all came together. You do have to read all the books to understand why reacted a certain way, why things happen, because if not you will be lost in all the flow of information and mystery.
Overall, I loved this books as much as I love the other ones in the series. It had an amazing pace the all time, not all the same pace which was dynamic and exciting. Like other books written by Rachel McLean, it was a different kind of plot in a future that make us reflect on our own humanity and all the qualities and flaws, and it make us also think about what kind of future we may have. And then the characters are relatable, feel real, true. All of that and more is why I recommend this series.
Yet again, I'm back to the village and to see what the characters are doing now and with this new novel in the series, I'm left overwhelmed with thoughts and emotions. That's the power of Rachel McLean's writing. She can make us focus so much on the story that it almost feels like we are there, living it; at least that's what it was like for me.
Of course, it follows after the previous book "Sea of Lies" and the characters that we have met before, Jess, Ruth, Sarah and all the others. Some problems still happen and they have to deal with them, and we keep getting some growth of the characters and uncover new information and get the answers we were looking for.
I won't go into many details at all because I'm afraid I will give out spoilers about the other books as well as this one. I have to say that I loved this book and how it all came together. You do have to read all the books to understand why reacted a certain way, why things happen, because if not you will be lost in all the flow of information and mystery.
Overall, I loved this books as much as I love the other ones in the series. It had an amazing pace the all time, not all the same pace which was dynamic and exciting. Like other books written by Rachel McLean, it was a different kind of plot in a future that make us reflect on our own humanity and all the qualities and flaws, and it make us also think about what kind of future we may have. And then the characters are relatable, feel real, true. All of that and more is why I recommend this series.
August 4, 2019
I highly recommend you read the previous two books before you read this one as the story continues.
As this is the last in the trilogy I’m wary about saying much about the storyline as I don’t wanna give anything away.
I was happy to read more of the characters yet sad to see this trilogy end. I will say I wasn’t disappointed with the conclusion.
This is a really well written story that captivated me from start to finish. I’m certainly looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
As this is the last in the trilogy I’m wary about saying much about the storyline as I don’t wanna give anything away.
I was happy to read more of the characters yet sad to see this trilogy end. I will say I wasn’t disappointed with the conclusion.
This is a really well written story that captivated me from start to finish. I’m certainly looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
August 3, 2019
What a great read! I am impressed by how once I started reading this story it was like going back to the village and I remembered characters and events from the earlier stories, 'Thicker than Water' and 'Sea of Lies', despite it being more than four months since I read them. It is set in the future, after catastrophic floods and rising sea levels have changed life as we know it.
This is the story of survivors who have banded together in a coastal North Yorkshire holiday community where they're striving to live independently. Resented by the Whitby locals, the community faces many problems and life threatening dangers. This is a thrilling, suspense filled story which makes you wonder about how you would react in a similar situation.
Coping after trauma, fighting for survival, acceptance and rejection of others, attitudes to others and so much more are included in this story which also involves tragedy, compromise and accepting help. I'm sad to see this is the last in the Village trilogy as I've enjoyed reading the whole series and have no hesitation in recommending all three books and suggest they should be read in order as events follow on chronologically through them, especially if you enjoy gripping thrillers set in the near future.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is the story of survivors who have banded together in a coastal North Yorkshire holiday community where they're striving to live independently. Resented by the Whitby locals, the community faces many problems and life threatening dangers. This is a thrilling, suspense filled story which makes you wonder about how you would react in a similar situation.
Coping after trauma, fighting for survival, acceptance and rejection of others, attitudes to others and so much more are included in this story which also involves tragedy, compromise and accepting help. I'm sad to see this is the last in the Village trilogy as I've enjoyed reading the whole series and have no hesitation in recommending all three books and suggest they should be read in order as events follow on chronologically through them, especially if you enjoy gripping thrillers set in the near future.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
January 9, 2024
This was the last of the trilogy and though it was engaging, much of it was annoying - human behaviour isn't likeable, if not violent then naive. There was a strangeness about it all, maybe it was the isolation that create such a community. Those outside the village were awful, which highlighted that humans despise differences and those outside their tribe.
The psychological effects due to trauma were well described.
Well-written, fast-paced and thought-provoking.
Worth reading.
The psychological effects due to trauma were well described.
Well-written, fast-paced and thought-provoking.
Worth reading.
August 4, 2019
Book 3 in 'The Village' series set in near-future North Yorkshire, is fast-paced, suspenseful with an undercurrent of menace.
Character empathy is easier, if you read the first two books in the series, 'Thicker Than Water' and 'Sea of Lies'. Dystopian, it is set in a village founded after traumatic floods, and rising sea levels caused devastation, necessitating people to leave their homes and become refugees.
The final book is set in the aftermath of traumatic events involving outsiders and the villagers. There is a culture of mistrust and isolation between the indigenous population, authorities, and the villagers (refugees). There is sufficient backstory included to let you read as a standalone story, but it is a series that should be read chronically for maximum reader impact and understanding.
The characters are complex, vividly drawn, and realistic, their interactions among themselves and with outsiders are believable. The suspense building is good, the setting authentic and disturbing. Exploring the extremes of human emotions, once the status quo is upset.
A perfect series, if you enjoy suspenseful thrillers with a dystopian setting.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Character empathy is easier, if you read the first two books in the series, 'Thicker Than Water' and 'Sea of Lies'. Dystopian, it is set in a village founded after traumatic floods, and rising sea levels caused devastation, necessitating people to leave their homes and become refugees.
The final book is set in the aftermath of traumatic events involving outsiders and the villagers. There is a culture of mistrust and isolation between the indigenous population, authorities, and the villagers (refugees). There is sufficient backstory included to let you read as a standalone story, but it is a series that should be read chronically for maximum reader impact and understanding.
The characters are complex, vividly drawn, and realistic, their interactions among themselves and with outsiders are believable. The suspense building is good, the setting authentic and disturbing. Exploring the extremes of human emotions, once the status quo is upset.
A perfect series, if you enjoy suspenseful thrillers with a dystopian setting.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
September 1, 2019
The final installment in this trilogy and I have had mixed feelings about it. I much preferred the second book as I liked the main characters of Sarah and Martin more than Jess and Ben.
This third book sees the action more evenly shared as the villagers deal with an influx of newcomers following an explosion in Filey which destroyed some houses.
It's a quick read and the plot is fast moving but I'm afraid I didn't enjoy this book or the trilogy as a whole as much as many reviewers have. It's an interesting scenario and a decent read but it didn't really do it for me.
My thanks to TBConFB, the author and the publisher for this copy.
This third book sees the action more evenly shared as the villagers deal with an influx of newcomers following an explosion in Filey which destroyed some houses.
It's a quick read and the plot is fast moving but I'm afraid I didn't enjoy this book or the trilogy as a whole as much as many reviewers have. It's an interesting scenario and a decent read but it didn't really do it for me.
My thanks to TBConFB, the author and the publisher for this copy.
August 26, 2019
One Of Us is the final book in, ‘The Village’, trilogy, and a sequel to, ‘Sea Of Lies’. It is a, “gripping thriller about belonging and acceptance”. Set in a dystopian future following a catastrophic flood, It continues the stories of Jess Dyer, brother Ben and sister in-law Ruth, and also Sarah Evans and fiancé Martin.
No spoilers, Jess is trying to remain in control as leader of her refugee community displaced after the floods and wants to keep everyone safe, but with angry villagers, death threats, secrets and a loved ones death, can Jess stay as Steward? Meanwhile Sarah and Martin are dealing with less than welcoming villagers who still do not trust new comer Martin, and death threats telling Martin to leave. The frequent clashes between the refugees in the Village and the occupants of Filey dominate this book, and the fears both societies have of the ‘unknown’ others is an interesting look at how communities develop and how people view outsiders.
I liked catching up with all the main characters from the first two books and seeing how there characters had developed and changed over the three books, Thicker Than Water, Sea of Lies, and concluding in this, One of Us. I felt Ruth had more of a voice in this last book, and Sarah had grown in confidence following her trust issues with her parents in the second book. Jess and Ben still argue as siblings do, but Jess has definitely grown into her role as Steward on the new council.
Another wonderfully written book, with likeable and realistic characters, detailed and fast paced, all of which makes it easy to read but less easy to put down!
I personally feel you need to read each book as part of the trilogy and in the order that author, Rachel McLean wrote them, to really get to know the characters and the journey they have gone on throughout the books. A really good read which I definitely recommend.
No spoilers, Jess is trying to remain in control as leader of her refugee community displaced after the floods and wants to keep everyone safe, but with angry villagers, death threats, secrets and a loved ones death, can Jess stay as Steward? Meanwhile Sarah and Martin are dealing with less than welcoming villagers who still do not trust new comer Martin, and death threats telling Martin to leave. The frequent clashes between the refugees in the Village and the occupants of Filey dominate this book, and the fears both societies have of the ‘unknown’ others is an interesting look at how communities develop and how people view outsiders.
I liked catching up with all the main characters from the first two books and seeing how there characters had developed and changed over the three books, Thicker Than Water, Sea of Lies, and concluding in this, One of Us. I felt Ruth had more of a voice in this last book, and Sarah had grown in confidence following her trust issues with her parents in the second book. Jess and Ben still argue as siblings do, but Jess has definitely grown into her role as Steward on the new council.
Another wonderfully written book, with likeable and realistic characters, detailed and fast paced, all of which makes it easy to read but less easy to put down!
I personally feel you need to read each book as part of the trilogy and in the order that author, Rachel McLean wrote them, to really get to know the characters and the journey they have gone on throughout the books. A really good read which I definitely recommend.
September 15, 2019
I was thrilled to be back with some of the characters that I’d fallen in love with in the first two books!
We’re back with Jess who’s still in charge of looking after the village, and it appears to be a happier time for her. She’s recently engaged! Sarah is still loved up with Martin but he’s still experiencing quite a bit of opposition from the community after the events in Thicker than Water (Book 1). He starts receiving death threats and then there is more bad news for the village when a catastrophe strikes another town just up the road from them…..
Jess is doing her best to lead the town but the community seem to stop listening and do their own thing. Meanwhile, Ruth is struggling with the events of the past and we lose one of the beloved characters……But will they all getting the happy ending they deserve?
Yet again, I was thoroughly sucked in to the story and was so glad to see how some of the characters have really grown. Dawn in particular, who has moved on from being a controlled and battered housewife to having her independence. Jess is happy – until things take a turn for the worst. Ben was driving me nuts in this, and Ruth is having a really tough time. When you think things are about to settle for the community, who to be fair have been through enough…something else happens!
We also lose a character which is REALLY sad….especially in the circumstances, and who it is….
I’m not sure if this is the final book….as it’s a trilogy but there is so much I wanted to know at the end. Things have really changed for the village and I want to know how they all get on and what happens!
As I say, another book that will suck you in and have you gripped. I’d definitely suggest reading the first two so you know the whole back story (and they’ll also have you wanting more!)
We’re back with Jess who’s still in charge of looking after the village, and it appears to be a happier time for her. She’s recently engaged! Sarah is still loved up with Martin but he’s still experiencing quite a bit of opposition from the community after the events in Thicker than Water (Book 1). He starts receiving death threats and then there is more bad news for the village when a catastrophe strikes another town just up the road from them…..
Jess is doing her best to lead the town but the community seem to stop listening and do their own thing. Meanwhile, Ruth is struggling with the events of the past and we lose one of the beloved characters……But will they all getting the happy ending they deserve?
Yet again, I was thoroughly sucked in to the story and was so glad to see how some of the characters have really grown. Dawn in particular, who has moved on from being a controlled and battered housewife to having her independence. Jess is happy – until things take a turn for the worst. Ben was driving me nuts in this, and Ruth is having a really tough time. When you think things are about to settle for the community, who to be fair have been through enough…something else happens!
We also lose a character which is REALLY sad….especially in the circumstances, and who it is….
I’m not sure if this is the final book….as it’s a trilogy but there is so much I wanted to know at the end. Things have really changed for the village and I want to know how they all get on and what happens!
As I say, another book that will suck you in and have you gripped. I’d definitely suggest reading the first two so you know the whole back story (and they’ll also have you wanting more!)
August 4, 2019
This is #3 in The Village series and while it can be read as a standalone, you will miss out on quite a bit of a great story.
There is now a slightly uneasy peace in the village, but then there’s a gas exploration in nearby Filey….do they go to help?
The villagers discuss offering sanctuary to anyone that needs help, but we know how that ended last time….with kidnap and death….
But then they are attacked…again….Jess loses someone close to her, and threats come in the form of a brick through a window with a message ‘leave or die ‘…
There are continued suspicions….is Martin trustworthy? And plenty of in fighting as the village council try to protect everyone and help the people of Filey….some of them anyway…
Ruth is struggling, Ben tries to help but it’s not going well…
Can Jess save everyone again? Now they have new members in their society will the council need to grow?
Great characters that I feel I know now having read all three books in the series ( not the prequel yet though) and really want them to have a peaceful, settled life…..not sure that’s going to happen !
Fast paced and engrossing…..I can thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources 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.
There is now a slightly uneasy peace in the village, but then there’s a gas exploration in nearby Filey….do they go to help?
The villagers discuss offering sanctuary to anyone that needs help, but we know how that ended last time….with kidnap and death….
But then they are attacked…again….Jess loses someone close to her, and threats come in the form of a brick through a window with a message ‘leave or die ‘…
There are continued suspicions….is Martin trustworthy? And plenty of in fighting as the village council try to protect everyone and help the people of Filey….some of them anyway…
Ruth is struggling, Ben tries to help but it’s not going well…
Can Jess save everyone again? Now they have new members in their society will the council need to grow?
Great characters that I feel I know now having read all three books in the series ( not the prequel yet though) and really want them to have a peaceful, settled life…..not sure that’s going to happen !
Fast paced and engrossing…..I can thoroughly recommend it.
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources 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.
August 27, 2019
An excellent but very frustrating end to the trilogy.
Turmoil continues in the post-flood world, with the village having to first reluctantly accept outsiders and then seek help from the outside world.
Both things cause much arguing, angst, paranoia and fear among the "locals" as they have been victims so many times before. Forced to give up homes and start living cheek by jowl with newly displaced people from up the coast suspicion runs high and Jess loses control and support of the village and the council.
The characters continue to provoke extreme emotions in the reader, leaving you wanting to shake sense into some of them and sweep others up into a comforting hug. The extreme emotions running through the story are so well written that you feel them alongside the characters and in some places it is impossible to put the book down until you have reached a place where you can breath again!
I loved the story but the idealist in me wanted a happy "everything back to normal" ending that could never happen in such a changed world. I suspect I would not do well in a post apocalyptic existence!
Turmoil continues in the post-flood world, with the village having to first reluctantly accept outsiders and then seek help from the outside world.
Both things cause much arguing, angst, paranoia and fear among the "locals" as they have been victims so many times before. Forced to give up homes and start living cheek by jowl with newly displaced people from up the coast suspicion runs high and Jess loses control and support of the village and the council.
The characters continue to provoke extreme emotions in the reader, leaving you wanting to shake sense into some of them and sweep others up into a comforting hug. The extreme emotions running through the story are so well written that you feel them alongside the characters and in some places it is impossible to put the book down until you have reached a place where you can breath again!
I loved the story but the idealist in me wanted a happy "everything back to normal" ending that could never happen in such a changed world. I suspect I would not do well in a post apocalyptic existence!
August 4, 2019
Rachel McLean has become one of my favorite authors this year. Her series, the Village trilogy, is fantastic. I have loved each book, and One Of Us is no different! Her writing is captivating, and I read this in one sitting, on the edge of my seat.
Thrilling, addicting…these are just some of the adjectives I can use to describe One of Us. The underlying themes of belonging and acceptance. They were very prevalent in this novel. It made me think, it kept me glued to the pages, and I felt like I was part of the story.
As I said, I am really loving Rachel McLean’s writing and she is an incredible thriller writer. Can’t wait for more! Highly recommended!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
Thrilling, addicting…these are just some of the adjectives I can use to describe One of Us. The underlying themes of belonging and acceptance. They were very prevalent in this novel. It made me think, it kept me glued to the pages, and I felt like I was part of the story.
As I said, I am really loving Rachel McLean’s writing and she is an incredible thriller writer. Can’t wait for more! Highly recommended!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
Find this review and more on my blog: https://www.jessicabelmont.wordpress.com
October 10, 2019
This is the third of the trilogy set within an isolated community after floods have devasted the country. Reading the first two is recommended but this does also work as a standalone.
Martin joined the community under slightly awkward circumstances. Can he really find his own place there?
As he struggles to be accepted, the outside world intrudes properly for the first time in the trilogy, as the local council decides that the community have valuable assets that should be shared.
Jess, the community leader, faces some tough decisions, in a struggle that reflects a lot of life - the difference between remaining stoutly independent and asking for and giving help.
This rounded the series off nicely, with a real sense of completion, and I admire the way that all three books in the trilogy tell a different, but tightly related, story of community and struggle.
Martin joined the community under slightly awkward circumstances. Can he really find his own place there?
As he struggles to be accepted, the outside world intrudes properly for the first time in the trilogy, as the local council decides that the community have valuable assets that should be shared.
Jess, the community leader, faces some tough decisions, in a struggle that reflects a lot of life - the difference between remaining stoutly independent and asking for and giving help.
This rounded the series off nicely, with a real sense of completion, and I admire the way that all three books in the trilogy tell a different, but tightly related, story of community and struggle.
August 20, 2019
This is number three in this series about a group of people surving in a small village after Britain has been flooded. Jess is the village steward trying to keep everthing together. A nearby town has an explosion and the villager have to accept new people into their fold. The villagers are still trying to get back to some semblance of normality after several of the women were kidnapped,covered in the previous book, and some of the kidnapped women are suffering with their mental health. The village starts to fall apart through fear,change and sibling rivalry. Best read as part of the trilogy but could be read on its own. I really enjoyed reading more adventures of these people and how the overcome.
October 5, 2019
This is the third in the Village Series of books by Rachel Mclean. Read my reviews of Thicker Than Water and Sea of Lies, the first two in the series.
Although this is the third in the series, you can read it as a standalone, but I recommend you read the first two books as you then get the back stories of the characters.
This book sees the village struggling with more choices, after the disaster they faced when they took strangers in before. They are reluctant to take more people into the village.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and found it a shame that this is the last. It has been a good journey, thinking about an event that could so easily happen. What decisions would we make? Would a tragedy change our morals?
Although this is the third in the series, you can read it as a standalone, but I recommend you read the first two books as you then get the back stories of the characters.
This book sees the village struggling with more choices, after the disaster they faced when they took strangers in before. They are reluctant to take more people into the village.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and found it a shame that this is the last. It has been a good journey, thinking about an event that could so easily happen. What decisions would we make? Would a tragedy change our morals?
August 28, 2019
This is the final book in the brilliant Village trilogy. It does read ok as a standalone, but I would urge everyone to read the two previous books to gain a proper understanding of the characters and how they came to be living in the Village.
Once again Rachel McLean has delivered a well written story which I read in two sittings. It was great catching up with all the characters from the previous books, who are all well drawn and realistic and continue to develop. I love how they all interact with each other, and this time with the world outside the village.
I was quite sad that there will be no more books in this series, but felt that the ending was satisfying and quite fitting.
Once again Rachel McLean has delivered a well written story which I read in two sittings. It was great catching up with all the characters from the previous books, who are all well drawn and realistic and continue to develop. I love how they all interact with each other, and this time with the world outside the village.
I was quite sad that there will be no more books in this series, but felt that the ending was satisfying and quite fitting.
November 16, 2019
The Village finale! This story concentrates more on Jess and her brother Ben and how the villagers cope with an influx of newcomers following an explosion in nearby Filey. There are many clashes between the villagers and the Filey natives and Jess' job as Steward is therefore a difficult one. A detailed and quick moving story, with interesting and likeable characters. An enjoyable and fast read for me.
Thanks to The Book Club Reviewer Group and the author for the chance to read and review this brilliant trilogy.
Thanks to The Book Club Reviewer Group and the author for the chance to read and review this brilliant trilogy.
August 28, 2024
A Good Read
We are back in the village with Jess Dyer still acting as steward, but there is trouble when people from outsiders try to push the villagers out and Jess suffers a personal tragedy. After her ordeal in the previous book Ruth is unwell and her husband, Jess's brother, blames Jess. Will the villagers ever be able to live in harmony with the rest of the population? This was a good read and I am sorry the series has come to an end.
We are back in the village with Jess Dyer still acting as steward, but there is trouble when people from outsiders try to push the villagers out and Jess suffers a personal tragedy. After her ordeal in the previous book Ruth is unwell and her husband, Jess's brother, blames Jess. Will the villagers ever be able to live in harmony with the rest of the population? This was a good read and I am sorry the series has come to an end.
September 2, 2019
I received a copy of this book from TBC Reviewers request- Thank you
This is the third book in the series and as always, I would recommend reading the first book to ensure you get the best from the series!
Rachel has created a fantastic dystopian reality that hooks the reader from the first page, each book in the series links directly to the last and they really are a WOW read!
This is the third book in the series and as always, I would recommend reading the first book to ensure you get the best from the series!
Rachel has created a fantastic dystopian reality that hooks the reader from the first page, each book in the series links directly to the last and they really are a WOW read!
September 8, 2019
What a great read. It is set in the future as are all the other books in the series. I read the others and enjoyed them as well. If you like dystopian genre, then this is a series to check out. Highly recommend
February 24, 2023
Another great read
This follows on from the previous books and is just as gripping. Jess has a better control of the village but there are still those that disagree with her. After a personal tragedy she comes into her own. Great read.
This follows on from the previous books and is just as gripping. Jess has a better control of the village but there are still those that disagree with her. After a personal tragedy she comes into her own. Great read.
November 28, 2024
The final bill in The Village trilogy. I didn't enjoy any of the books, not one of the people was likeable and I skipped through quite a bit of the books. For the first time I really didn't like or enjoy Rachel McLean books, usually I love her writing but not this time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2019
Third part of the trilogy. The outside world is closing in and the Village must change. More on the bog tour
August 31, 2019
One of us by Rachel Mcclean.
A fantastic read with some great characters. Didn't like Anita. I hope there is more to come I don't want it to be the last book. 5*.
A fantastic read with some great characters. Didn't like Anita. I hope there is more to come I don't want it to be the last book. 5*.
August 29, 2019
This is the third book in The Village series and it follows on from Thicker Than Water and Sea of Lies.
Jess is settling into her job as village steward even though its causing issues with her brother Ben, the previous steward. Relations with the residents of nearby Filey have always been tense and when a disaster strikes there, things aren't going to get any better. Many of the residents of the village are still recovering from the traumas of the previous books and the additional stresses are just about too much.
I enjoy Rachel's writing, her stories are easy to read and full of the struggles of life following a huge disaster. Her characters are well rounded and people just like you and me.
Definitely a series I'd recommend.
Jess is settling into her job as village steward even though its causing issues with her brother Ben, the previous steward. Relations with the residents of nearby Filey have always been tense and when a disaster strikes there, things aren't going to get any better. Many of the residents of the village are still recovering from the traumas of the previous books and the additional stresses are just about too much.
I enjoy Rachel's writing, her stories are easy to read and full of the struggles of life following a huge disaster. Her characters are well rounded and people just like you and me.
Definitely a series I'd recommend.
October 25, 2019
The final book in 'the village' trilogy of books. I thought it finished the trilogy quite well i think. It was an intriguing series, and made me think about what could happen in the future - the premise wasn't outside the range of possibility.
August 24, 2019
Set six months after Sea of Lies, we find the villagers still healing from the kidnap and rescue of some of the village women, and starting to move on with a more settled existence. However, this new found calm is short-lived when they are asked to accept people from the neighbouring town into their community. At first their reaction to this surprised me. After all a community that were once reliant on charity would surely be willing to offer this same charity to others in need. However, the more I thought about it, I could see how their experiences and the treatment they had received at the hands of the very people who now needed their help may have hardened their hearts. I was left wondering how I would react in this situation – my heart tells me that I would always try to help someone in need, but my head can see how it could become more important to keep my family safe.
One of Us feels like a much more emotional book than the previous books in the series. Where they seemed to concentrate more on action, this book deals more with the reactions and the internal turmoil of the characters. My heart absolutely broke for Ruth and Ben in the aftermath of her kidnap and arrest, as well as for poor Martin who still hasn’t been fully accepted by the village. Touching on subjects including depression, PTSD and persecution, this book really touched me, and showed a side to Rachel’s writing that I hadn’t fully appreciated before. Add to these subjects the shocking death of a character who I had grown to love, and you are left with a book that will really put you through the emotional wringer.
Put simply, One of Us is a triumphant end to the Village trilogy.
One of Us feels like a much more emotional book than the previous books in the series. Where they seemed to concentrate more on action, this book deals more with the reactions and the internal turmoil of the characters. My heart absolutely broke for Ruth and Ben in the aftermath of her kidnap and arrest, as well as for poor Martin who still hasn’t been fully accepted by the village. Touching on subjects including depression, PTSD and persecution, this book really touched me, and showed a side to Rachel’s writing that I hadn’t fully appreciated before. Add to these subjects the shocking death of a character who I had grown to love, and you are left with a book that will really put you through the emotional wringer.
Put simply, One of Us is a triumphant end to the Village trilogy.
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