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Her Last Secret
Jordan Radcliffe is found stabbed to death.
Her boyfriend’s finger prints are on the knife and his clothes are covered in her blood.
Case closed… Or is it?
When Jordan’s estranged father Jake learns of his only daughter’s death, he is convinced that there is more to her murder than he is being told. But Jake hasn’t seen Jordan for over three years and, with secrets of her own, she was far from the child he abandoned all those years ago.
Jake’s ex-wife Jules, is reluctant to let him waltz back into her life. But with a question mark hanging over the case, Jake knows that he must piece together the fragments of evidence before it is too late.
Will he ever discover the truth?
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2020
89 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 21, 2019
Actual rating: 4.5 ⭐
E-ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
PROS:
• THE PLOT TWIST! I swear on anything you want, not even for a second I had seen this coming! This thing entirely made me raise my rating from 2⭐ to 4.5 ⭐. It is a huge difference between the rating before I have come across the plot twist and after I finished reading. I know. But hear me out, please! Even though there are a lot of CONS for this book, in my opinion, as always, the plot twist and the plot twist of the plot twist (yeah, you read it right! the plot twist of the plot twist) it is WORTH. EVERY. SINGLE. CONS. THAT. I. HAVE. FOR. THIS. BOOK! Then why I didn't rate it 5 ⭐, you may ask. Well, because exactly of this thing, too many CONS. You will read them bellow.
Now, let me continue what I was saying about the plot twist. Without giving any spoilers, of any kind, it took me from the almost falling asleep state to fucking pull myself up because (cliche) I was just forgetting how to breathe! In a matter of a few pages! And, it almost made me forget that I have to prepare lunch for my family. Luckily, my 13-months-old baby boy started to grab my hands and I was able to see what the time was. During the lunch, I was on edge and restless because all I wanted to do was to go back to read!!! I didn't give a fuck about what my fiancee was telling me about I don't know what thing he did! I was daydreaming to go back to read my book! Do you get it?!
If this insight in my life wasn't convincing enough to make you grab this book, despite all of the next CONS, then I don't know what would make you do it. And I don't care. Just do it! Read it, and thank me later!
CONS:
• Annoying repetitions. From place to place there where these repetitions of certain sentences. I understand that they wanted to put an emphasis on some memories and point them out, but all they managed to do for me was to annoy and disturb me.
• Slow pacing. For about 75-80% of the book, I almost fell asleep so many times! So, obviously, I had to put this book away every time this thing almost happened, which, let me tell you, was more than 5 times.
• Philosophical vibes. I think at around half of it these philosophical vibes started to hit me. There weren't strong ones, just very subtle, but either way, it was freaking me out. In a subtle matter. Maybe I was dreaming because I had so many times when I (thought) I was falling asleep?!
• I don't know how to form this one, but the bad guy, the person who killed Jordan, had such a short time in the book! I feel like there wasn't enough time to even fully understand the why, even though it sais why. It failed to explain the hows of why it got to this why. Didn't give background for it, more simply said.
•
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
• This is not a perfect or an easy to go thriller. But, as you saw so far, mostly in my PROS, it worth all the struggle! I had a few times when I just said I will DNF it, but something (as Jake liked to point it out sometimes) didn't let me do it. And I am happy that I continued reading! And, to be honest, I don't think I would change something in this book if given the chance. All these "bad" points are the structure of it, the things that make it so damn good! How to put it more simple... You know the feeling when you take a sip from a glass of a good whiskey? How it burns you and you probably say what the hell is this shit that is killing you? And then as it makes it's way to your insides, it starting to heat you up? And you want more of that heat? Well, this is what this book is. A very good sip of whiskey!
You can follow my TWITTER
If you want to support me, you can check my WHISHLIST
E-ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
PROS:
• THE PLOT TWIST! I swear on anything you want, not even for a second I had seen this coming! This thing entirely made me raise my rating from 2⭐ to 4.5 ⭐. It is a huge difference between the rating before I have come across the plot twist and after I finished reading. I know. But hear me out, please! Even though there are a lot of CONS for this book, in my opinion, as always, the plot twist and the plot twist of the plot twist (yeah, you read it right! the plot twist of the plot twist) it is WORTH. EVERY. SINGLE. CONS. THAT. I. HAVE. FOR. THIS. BOOK! Then why I didn't rate it 5 ⭐, you may ask. Well, because exactly of this thing, too many CONS. You will read them bellow.
Now, let me continue what I was saying about the plot twist. Without giving any spoilers, of any kind, it took me from the almost falling asleep state to fucking pull myself up because (cliche) I was just forgetting how to breathe! In a matter of a few pages! And, it almost made me forget that I have to prepare lunch for my family. Luckily, my 13-months-old baby boy started to grab my hands and I was able to see what the time was. During the lunch, I was on edge and restless because all I wanted to do was to go back to read!!! I didn't give a fuck about what my fiancee was telling me about I don't know what thing he did! I was daydreaming to go back to read my book! Do you get it?!
If this insight in my life wasn't convincing enough to make you grab this book, despite all of the next CONS, then I don't know what would make you do it. And I don't care. Just do it! Read it, and thank me later!
CONS:
• Annoying repetitions. From place to place there where these repetitions of certain sentences. I understand that they wanted to put an emphasis on some memories and point them out, but all they managed to do for me was to annoy and disturb me.
• Slow pacing. For about 75-80% of the book, I almost fell asleep so many times! So, obviously, I had to put this book away every time this thing almost happened, which, let me tell you, was more than 5 times.
• Philosophical vibes. I think at around half of it these philosophical vibes started to hit me. There weren't strong ones, just very subtle, but either way, it was freaking me out. In a subtle matter. Maybe I was dreaming because I had so many times when I (thought) I was falling asleep?!
• I don't know how to form this one, but the bad guy, the person who killed Jordan, had such a short time in the book! I feel like there wasn't enough time to even fully understand the why, even though it sais why. It failed to explain the hows of why it got to this why. Didn't give background for it, more simply said.
•
OVERALL THOUGHTS:
• This is not a perfect or an easy to go thriller. But, as you saw so far, mostly in my PROS, it worth all the struggle! I had a few times when I just said I will DNF it, but something (as Jake liked to point it out sometimes) didn't let me do it. And I am happy that I continued reading! And, to be honest, I don't think I would change something in this book if given the chance. All these "bad" points are the structure of it, the things that make it so damn good! How to put it more simple... You know the feeling when you take a sip from a glass of a good whiskey? How it burns you and you probably say what the hell is this shit that is killing you? And then as it makes it's way to your insides, it starting to heat you up? And you want more of that heat? Well, this is what this book is. A very good sip of whiskey!
You can follow my TWITTER
If you want to support me, you can check my WHISHLIST
January 26, 2020
I think I have quite a gooey heart, this book, a pure murder mystery, had me quite emotional at times.
The story started with a girl dying and wanting her father to make it all right. Somebody had murdered her. Cop and family friend Matt, father Jake, and mother Julie were all devastated when Jordan’s body was found. The step-father didn’t care less about it.
My first book by author P L Kane, I too wanted to know who killed this child who was so troubled in life that she was scuttling herself. My insides twisted as the family life unfurled. I felt sad for the parents for their loss of love and relationship, and the way they lost their only child. The story was quite a domestic drama.
The story was quite slow, some parts jumped up at moments to prod me to keep reading, especially the ones with lawyer Sam Ferrara. But it was the twist which shook me and made this book come alive. I loved the rush of excitement, the heart beat rising with every page, and the ending which caused a surge of adrenaline. It was this twist which invigorated me and made this book a fun read.
The story started with a girl dying and wanting her father to make it all right. Somebody had murdered her. Cop and family friend Matt, father Jake, and mother Julie were all devastated when Jordan’s body was found. The step-father didn’t care less about it.
My first book by author P L Kane, I too wanted to know who killed this child who was so troubled in life that she was scuttling herself. My insides twisted as the family life unfurled. I felt sad for the parents for their loss of love and relationship, and the way they lost their only child. The story was quite a domestic drama.
The story was quite slow, some parts jumped up at moments to prod me to keep reading, especially the ones with lawyer Sam Ferrara. But it was the twist which shook me and made this book come alive. I loved the rush of excitement, the heart beat rising with every page, and the ending which caused a surge of adrenaline. It was this twist which invigorated me and made this book a fun read.
February 6, 2020
Well, I managed to power through and finish this one, but it felt like work.
Jordan Radcliffe is brutally murdered and her estranged father sets out to figure out what actually happened. The police have what seems to be a completely locked down case, with the suspect in custody, but Jake just has a feeling that there is something more to this story. He starts to dig into things and comes across more than he bargained for.
I will be completely honest, this was almost a DNF. The story was incredibly slow and not suspenseful at all for 90% of the book. I did not like the characters, they were infuriating to be honest and just seemed quite stupid at times. I also pretty much knew the twist at the end was coming and it still felt unnatural and disjointed. The first bit with the Mayor didn't seem to have anything to do with the story at all except to maybe try and throw off the twist at the end...but I'm not entirely sure what the goal was with that as it really didn't work for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy for an honest review.
Jordan Radcliffe is brutally murdered and her estranged father sets out to figure out what actually happened. The police have what seems to be a completely locked down case, with the suspect in custody, but Jake just has a feeling that there is something more to this story. He starts to dig into things and comes across more than he bargained for.
I will be completely honest, this was almost a DNF. The story was incredibly slow and not suspenseful at all for 90% of the book. I did not like the characters, they were infuriating to be honest and just seemed quite stupid at times. I also pretty much knew the twist at the end was coming and it still felt unnatural and disjointed. The first bit with the Mayor didn't seem to have anything to do with the story at all except to maybe try and throw off the twist at the end...but I'm not entirely sure what the goal was with that as it really didn't work for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy for an honest review.
January 13, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ Digital for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jordan Radcliffe is killed and found with a knife sticking out of her body. Her boyfriend is caught running from the scene. Jordan's estranged father, Jake, decides to do his own investigation into who killed her.
3.5 stars.
This book was ok for me. I read it in a day but mostly because I had nothing else to do, not because I was that engaged. I thought it was slow at times and I found my mind wandering as I read it. The ending had some surprises but I wasn't sure if they were well done by the author or if I had missed the clues cause I was in a zoned out state.
Jordan Radcliffe is killed and found with a knife sticking out of her body. Her boyfriend is caught running from the scene. Jordan's estranged father, Jake, decides to do his own investigation into who killed her.
3.5 stars.
This book was ok for me. I read it in a day but mostly because I had nothing else to do, not because I was that engaged. I thought it was slow at times and I found my mind wandering as I read it. The ending had some surprises but I wasn't sure if they were well done by the author or if I had missed the clues cause I was in a zoned out state.
February 5, 2020
Taut, smart, and compelling.
When Jake Radcliffe learns of his troubled daughter’s death, he is determined to find out what really happened on that fateful night. But Jake hasn’t seen Jordan for over three years and there is a lot he doesn’t know about his only daughter. But when Jake makes a shocking discovery, he is convinced that there is more to her murder than he and his ex-wife, Jules are being told. Full of regret and grief, Jake is desperate to protect his daughter’s memory and to understand her final hours… With a question mark hanging over the case, will Jake be able to piece together the fragments of evidence, uncover the truth behind Jordan’s death, and make amends for the time he has lost?
The story opens with a short prologue that immediately sets the tone of the book and from this point I was totally engrossed in the story. The plot is cunningly crafted and brilliantly executed, reaching for me when I wasn't expecting it. I adored the descriptive style of P.L. Kane which I found to be emotive and affecting. In a well structured narrative of twists, secrets and lies, there are abundant descriptions of reminiscences and anecdotes. Even though the characters weren't particularly likeable, I still enjoyed their specific contributions to the story. There was more going on than I first assumed and I loved trying to guess how Her Last Secret was going to end, though that didn’t happen as I thought it would.
The writing flowed effortlessly and the story was packed with mystery and twists as it spiralled its way to the surprise denouement. I read Her Last Secret with relish and though it was not the most sensational psychological thriller I have ever read, it was still a very good crime début for me, and I will be looking out for more from P.L. Kane. Her Last Secret is a must-read for fans of the psychological thriller genre.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from HQ Digital via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
When Jake Radcliffe learns of his troubled daughter’s death, he is determined to find out what really happened on that fateful night. But Jake hasn’t seen Jordan for over three years and there is a lot he doesn’t know about his only daughter. But when Jake makes a shocking discovery, he is convinced that there is more to her murder than he and his ex-wife, Jules are being told. Full of regret and grief, Jake is desperate to protect his daughter’s memory and to understand her final hours… With a question mark hanging over the case, will Jake be able to piece together the fragments of evidence, uncover the truth behind Jordan’s death, and make amends for the time he has lost?
The story opens with a short prologue that immediately sets the tone of the book and from this point I was totally engrossed in the story. The plot is cunningly crafted and brilliantly executed, reaching for me when I wasn't expecting it. I adored the descriptive style of P.L. Kane which I found to be emotive and affecting. In a well structured narrative of twists, secrets and lies, there are abundant descriptions of reminiscences and anecdotes. Even though the characters weren't particularly likeable, I still enjoyed their specific contributions to the story. There was more going on than I first assumed and I loved trying to guess how Her Last Secret was going to end, though that didn’t happen as I thought it would.
The writing flowed effortlessly and the story was packed with mystery and twists as it spiralled its way to the surprise denouement. I read Her Last Secret with relish and though it was not the most sensational psychological thriller I have ever read, it was still a very good crime début for me, and I will be looking out for more from P.L. Kane. Her Last Secret is a must-read for fans of the psychological thriller genre.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from HQ Digital via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 5, 2020
This is a fantastic character driven book , highlighting the fractious relationship between a teenage daughter, before her murder, and her now divorced parents.
The detailed account of their grief tore through me as a parent of a teenage girl myself and having been a similar teenager to Jordan back in the day made me empathise with her too.
Starting with a slow but steady pace it picks up once Jake starts investigating and my favourite character, lawyer Sam Ferrara is introduced. In she waltzes to get Jake released from the cells and gives the book a little light relief from all the darkness. I loved her attitude, her sharp perceptiveness and her sense of justice in wanting answers even if it could hurt her client who is the main suspect in Jordan’s murder.
A dark domestic crime thriller with a really strong plot that delivers some nice unexpected twists and another author to add to my booky radar.
The detailed account of their grief tore through me as a parent of a teenage girl myself and having been a similar teenager to Jordan back in the day made me empathise with her too.
Starting with a slow but steady pace it picks up once Jake starts investigating and my favourite character, lawyer Sam Ferrara is introduced. In she waltzes to get Jake released from the cells and gives the book a little light relief from all the darkness. I loved her attitude, her sharp perceptiveness and her sense of justice in wanting answers even if it could hurt her client who is the main suspect in Jordan’s murder.
A dark domestic crime thriller with a really strong plot that delivers some nice unexpected twists and another author to add to my booky radar.
January 3, 2020
This starts with the murder of Jordan Radcliffe, stabbed and left to die…..
Her estranged father, Jake, wants answers. Who killed his daughter?
Jake’s ex-wife Julie is distraught, her husband Greg doesn’t seem much support.
When Jordan’s boyfriend is arrested for the crime, Jake wants revenge…..but is there more to this than it seems? Can Jake find the truth?
This is a story of a family tragedy and a murder mystery. A tale of loss, grief and guilt after the death of Jordan….the what if’s and maybe’s . This is not a police procedural or thriller, it’s gripping murder mystery with an emotional heart. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to Jess at Harper Collins for the opportunity to take part in this blog tour, for the promotional material and a free ecopy of the book. This is my honest and unbiased review.
Her estranged father, Jake, wants answers. Who killed his daughter?
Jake’s ex-wife Julie is distraught, her husband Greg doesn’t seem much support.
When Jordan’s boyfriend is arrested for the crime, Jake wants revenge…..but is there more to this than it seems? Can Jake find the truth?
This is a story of a family tragedy and a murder mystery. A tale of loss, grief and guilt after the death of Jordan….the what if’s and maybe’s . This is not a police procedural or thriller, it’s gripping murder mystery with an emotional heart. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to Jess at Harper Collins for the opportunity to take part in this blog tour, for the promotional material and a free ecopy of the book. This is my honest and unbiased review.
January 19, 2020
The death of a child, your own child, is the worst possible experience a parent can go through, even more so when your child is brutally murdered.
Jake and Julie are completely devastated by the murder of their daughter Jordan. The only comfort is the fact the police already have the murderer in custody. Bobby was found covered in his girlfriend's blood, but he still insists that he is innocent.
Her parents, in particular Jake, find it difficult to reconcile their present with their past. Jake has to deal with the new man in her life and the new father figure in his daughters life. A man he takes an instant dislike to - is it just jealousy?
One of the most poignant elements of this story is guilt. Jake realises that there is no going back - no do over as a father to his daughter. He wasn't there to protect Jordan or to give her advice. Instead the separation from wife and home also resulted in the father and daughter relationship being severed.
He points the finger straight at his ex-wife. Why didn't she pay more attention to what Jordan was doing and who she was seeing? It's an easy way to deal with your own sense of guilt I suppose. Blame someone else, because the reality is so much more painful than Jake wants to acknowledge.
It's an emotionally charged domestic noir - fraught with guilt and regret. Kane plots a crime, but turns the story into a compelling tale about relationships, broken homes and families.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Jake and Julie are completely devastated by the murder of their daughter Jordan. The only comfort is the fact the police already have the murderer in custody. Bobby was found covered in his girlfriend's blood, but he still insists that he is innocent.
Her parents, in particular Jake, find it difficult to reconcile their present with their past. Jake has to deal with the new man in her life and the new father figure in his daughters life. A man he takes an instant dislike to - is it just jealousy?
One of the most poignant elements of this story is guilt. Jake realises that there is no going back - no do over as a father to his daughter. He wasn't there to protect Jordan or to give her advice. Instead the separation from wife and home also resulted in the father and daughter relationship being severed.
He points the finger straight at his ex-wife. Why didn't she pay more attention to what Jordan was doing and who she was seeing? It's an easy way to deal with your own sense of guilt I suppose. Blame someone else, because the reality is so much more painful than Jake wants to acknowledge.
It's an emotionally charged domestic noir - fraught with guilt and regret. Kane plots a crime, but turns the story into a compelling tale about relationships, broken homes and families.
*I received a courtesy copy*
January 2, 2020
Plot
Jordan Radcliffe is found stabbed to death.
Her boyfriend’s finger prints are on the knife and his clothes are covered in her blood.
Case closed… Or is it?
When Jordan’s estranged father Jake learns of his only daughter’s death, he is convinced that there is more to her murder than he is being told. But Jake hasn’t seen Jordan for over three years and, with secrets of her own, she was far from the child he abandoned all those years ago.
Jake’s ex-wife Jules, is reluctant to let him waltz back into her life. But with a question mark hanging over the case, Jake knows that he must piece together the fragments of evidence before it is too late.
Will he ever discover the truth?
Review
I have very mixed feelings about this book.
It’s atmosphere is compelling but it’s very repetitive. You get the same side of the story at least three times over when it’s really not needed. The storyline is strong but I felt it was let down but the extremely slow nature of the plotting.
I admit I almost gave up but I persevered and sped read most of the way just to get to the ending. The plot twist is clever but after a while I’d kind of already worked it out.
It’s a shame really as this book could have promised so much more.
Thank you to the publishers for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating
3 stars
Recommend
Sorry not really.
Jordan Radcliffe is found stabbed to death.
Her boyfriend’s finger prints are on the knife and his clothes are covered in her blood.
Case closed… Or is it?
When Jordan’s estranged father Jake learns of his only daughter’s death, he is convinced that there is more to her murder than he is being told. But Jake hasn’t seen Jordan for over three years and, with secrets of her own, she was far from the child he abandoned all those years ago.
Jake’s ex-wife Jules, is reluctant to let him waltz back into her life. But with a question mark hanging over the case, Jake knows that he must piece together the fragments of evidence before it is too late.
Will he ever discover the truth?
Review
I have very mixed feelings about this book.
It’s atmosphere is compelling but it’s very repetitive. You get the same side of the story at least three times over when it’s really not needed. The storyline is strong but I felt it was let down but the extremely slow nature of the plotting.
I admit I almost gave up but I persevered and sped read most of the way just to get to the ending. The plot twist is clever but after a while I’d kind of already worked it out.
It’s a shame really as this book could have promised so much more.
Thank you to the publishers for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating
3 stars
Recommend
Sorry not really.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2020
Jake is told the most awful news that a parent should never have to hear. His daughter Jordan has been found dead, stabbed, but the police already have a suspect.. Her boyfriend's prints were on the murder weapon and so it seems an open and shut case. Jake and his wife Jukes have been divorced for some time, Jules has re-married and Jake has been estranged from his daughter for many years, but he is determined to find out exactly what happened to her. He has a friend in the police force who agrees to help him and so Jake starts his own investigation.
I thought this story took a long time to tell as there were many passive chapters which only reiterated what had already been said. I do thank the publisher, author and Netgalley for allowing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I thought this story took a long time to tell as there were many passive chapters which only reiterated what had already been said. I do thank the publisher, author and Netgalley for allowing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 20, 2020
Jordan and Julie’s daughter gets killed, who was it? Of course the prime suspect is the boyfriend. But, did he actually do it?
This novel is an easy and fast-paced read. I am not sure if I would categorise it as a procedural or a dark domestic because is a bit of both.
The main outline of the story is a good one, but I could predict some of the upcoming twists early, so the wow factor was simply not there for me.
Characters are well depicted, in fact, they are strong assets to help creating the whole mood of the novel.
Unfortunately the novel lacked of action, suspense, thrill. It starts strong off but later on it simply goes until around the final chapters when we get the big secret revealed. I wish it had more going on all along.
This novel is an easy and fast-paced read. I am not sure if I would categorise it as a procedural or a dark domestic because is a bit of both.
The main outline of the story is a good one, but I could predict some of the upcoming twists early, so the wow factor was simply not there for me.
Characters are well depicted, in fact, they are strong assets to help creating the whole mood of the novel.
Unfortunately the novel lacked of action, suspense, thrill. It starts strong off but later on it simply goes until around the final chapters when we get the big secret revealed. I wish it had more going on all along.
January 2, 2020
I loved the premise of this book, the characters are well developed, I really felt for Jake and I was intrigued to see where it was going, who killed Jordan?
The killer reveal is a surprise largely because the reader wasn't really given enough about the character to make him a suspect before that, it is explained and fits with the rest of the book.
BUT that plot twist with the Mayor? That is a surprise I cannot get on board with it comes out of nowhere, is confusing and far-fetched, to say the least... It really distracted from the main story and I'm gutted it ruined it for me.
Thanks to HQ Stories for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.
⭐⭐
The killer reveal is a surprise largely because the reader wasn't really given enough about the character to make him a suspect before that, it is explained and fits with the rest of the book.
BUT that plot twist with the Mayor? That is a surprise I cannot get on board with it comes out of nowhere, is confusing and far-fetched, to say the least... It really distracted from the main story and I'm gutted it ruined it for me.
Thanks to HQ Stories for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.
⭐⭐
December 29, 2019
Unfortunately this was almost a DNF from me which was sad since it was a new to me author.
This book was too long winded to get to any real point of the story and was confusing at the best of times.
Once you finally get to the action the red herrings and actual truth are too close together to work well.
Also you are left with loose ends.
This book was too long winded to get to any real point of the story and was confusing at the best of times.
Once you finally get to the action the red herrings and actual truth are too close together to work well.
Also you are left with loose ends.
October 9, 2020
At first I felt the story moved too slowly, Jake Radcliffe is a bit of self-doubting whiner, asking too many internal questions, all angst and not much activity. Then things heat up and the second half races along after he ditches the repetitive thoughts, breaks a few rules and sticks his neck out to find the killer of his estranged daughter, Jordan.
Jake wants to atone for neglecting his fatherly duties and this gets a bit preachy regarding his need to make amends. However, he doggedly pursues the leads he uncovers despite being warned off by the authorities and formulaic interference (e.g. being run off the road) until he reaches a grisly yet satisfactory conclusion.
Among the other POVs there is a lot of internal monologue, often telling instead of showing like Jake’s ex-wife Julie, his old friend policeman Matt, his new friend lawyer Samantha (who represents the accused) all a bit “should I, shouldn’t I?” and the odd inclusion of a James Bond-type baddie raises even more questions.
There are references to movies which tend to detract from the storyline and date the action. Note the later insertion of that overused swear word denoting anger in lieu of good dialogue. In fact, the tone changes in the final chapters, like the manuscript was taken out of the bottom drawer, dusted off, and given the screenplay treatment.
Be aware parts of the plot move through some gruesome stuff, for instance Chapter 18 is set in a derelict abattoir (slaughter house) and Jake says the fateful words “Let’s check out the rest of the place...” But no doubt a seasoned crime reader will disregard the window dressing and potential camera angles and pick the culprit.
Postscript: I read Harper Collins Publishers paperback edition UK author Paul L Kane www.shadow-writer.co.uk
Jake wants to atone for neglecting his fatherly duties and this gets a bit preachy regarding his need to make amends. However, he doggedly pursues the leads he uncovers despite being warned off by the authorities and formulaic interference (e.g. being run off the road) until he reaches a grisly yet satisfactory conclusion.
Among the other POVs there is a lot of internal monologue, often telling instead of showing like Jake’s ex-wife Julie, his old friend policeman Matt, his new friend lawyer Samantha (who represents the accused) all a bit “should I, shouldn’t I?” and the odd inclusion of a James Bond-type baddie raises even more questions.
There are references to movies which tend to detract from the storyline and date the action. Note the later insertion of that overused swear word denoting anger in lieu of good dialogue. In fact, the tone changes in the final chapters, like the manuscript was taken out of the bottom drawer, dusted off, and given the screenplay treatment.
Be aware parts of the plot move through some gruesome stuff, for instance Chapter 18 is set in a derelict abattoir (slaughter house) and Jake says the fateful words “Let’s check out the rest of the place...” But no doubt a seasoned crime reader will disregard the window dressing and potential camera angles and pick the culprit.
Postscript: I read Harper Collins Publishers paperback edition UK author Paul L Kane www.shadow-writer.co.uk
April 8, 2020
The story gets off to a dramatic start with an opening chapter which sets the scene for what is to come in this cleverly thought out murder mystery.
It would seem almost from the beginning of the murder investigation that the perpetrator of Jordan Radcliffe's murder is pretty much decided, however, Jordan's father, Jake, is determined to leave nothing to chance as he searches for more evidence, determined to put right all the wrongs he feels he is responsible for in Jordan's short life.
Her Last Secret is not so much a police procedural although the investigation into Jordan's death certainly features but rather this is more about the guilt of those who are left behind who feel that they could have done more, been more, helped more and who in the face of such profound sadness feel that they only way to assuage their guilt is do everything possible to catch whoever is responsible.
There's so much to say about Her Last Secret but I don't want to give anything away as this is a story better read without any preconceived notions of where it is heading. Throughout the story there are varied plots twists, and more than enough excitement to keep you guessing. I especially enjoyed getting to know the main characters, particularly Jake, who is carrying more than his share of angst, the reason for his particular sadness is revealed as the story progresses.
Well written with an ability to get right into the heart of the characters, particularly between family members, Her Last Secret is a cleverly controlled murder mystery which will keep you guessing until the very last twist in the tale.
It would seem almost from the beginning of the murder investigation that the perpetrator of Jordan Radcliffe's murder is pretty much decided, however, Jordan's father, Jake, is determined to leave nothing to chance as he searches for more evidence, determined to put right all the wrongs he feels he is responsible for in Jordan's short life.
Her Last Secret is not so much a police procedural although the investigation into Jordan's death certainly features but rather this is more about the guilt of those who are left behind who feel that they could have done more, been more, helped more and who in the face of such profound sadness feel that they only way to assuage their guilt is do everything possible to catch whoever is responsible.
There's so much to say about Her Last Secret but I don't want to give anything away as this is a story better read without any preconceived notions of where it is heading. Throughout the story there are varied plots twists, and more than enough excitement to keep you guessing. I especially enjoyed getting to know the main characters, particularly Jake, who is carrying more than his share of angst, the reason for his particular sadness is revealed as the story progresses.
Well written with an ability to get right into the heart of the characters, particularly between family members, Her Last Secret is a cleverly controlled murder mystery which will keep you guessing until the very last twist in the tale.
April 28, 2020
Wow – what a great book. I was hooked from the start. The idea of a father trying to re-connect with his estranged murdered daughter was so poignant. Throw in the thrilling mystery, the secrets and lies and a touch of romance and it has all the ingredients of a fabulous read. Jake’s desire to find his daughter’s killer is poignant and perfectly written. I found myself really rooting for him amid the chaos of his gilt and sef flagellation – who could blame him. But then his dogged determination kicks in and things start to not add up and Jake becomes a father out for justice. I found Her Last Secret cleverly plotted, well paced and thrilling.
May 12, 2020
When Jake’s daughter is brutally murdered he goes back to the town he left, back to where he left Jordan and her mother three years ago. The police think they have the murderer in custody but Jake still wants answers. A fast paced, spine tingling read that will have you holding your breath with every twist and turn of the plot.
Thank you NetGalley, P L Kane and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. for this edition and hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
Thank you NetGalley, P L Kane and HarperCollins Publishers Ltd. for this edition and hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
November 5, 2020
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
November 18, 2021
Saintly Daddy, is bad enough. But the writer seemingly has the sweary kind of Tourette's. Constant swearing on every page!
So distracting, that I couldn't get past page 21. What a pity, I thought the synopsis made it sound good. I suppose that's what happens in a country under eternal lockdown, when aggressive 20 something librarians choose books for "customers" and the un-muzzled aren't allowed through the door.
So distracting, that I couldn't get past page 21. What a pity, I thought the synopsis made it sound good. I suppose that's what happens in a country under eternal lockdown, when aggressive 20 something librarians choose books for "customers" and the un-muzzled aren't allowed through the door.
May 29, 2020
I didnt really like this book it was such an effort to finish.
April 14, 2021
Cool and scary
June 22, 2024
Good listen. Keeps you engaged and wanting to know the answers.
November 10, 2024
Well I enjoyed that dark thriller. Why had Jordan died? What a mess of human depravity.
January 27, 2020
The premise of the story is simple; a grieving father, Jake, is searching for answers. His daughter’s death is so inexplicable, so unexpected, he can barely accept that it has happened. Jake becomes consumed with uncovering the details behind the crime. He can’t move on until he understands the who, the what and the why of it all.
Kane’s taut narrative focuses on the human cost of a tragedy. The complex relationship between Jake and his ex-wife Jules also plays out in centre stage. There is acrimony, but also a sense of shared responsibility. Jordan will always be their daughter, and her death re-ignites all manner of feelings that have been long buried.
I think it is the characterisation where Kane’s writing excels. It certainly raises this above your standard crime thriller fare. Jake and Jules are so well fleshed out, they feel real. These are two ordinary people who have had to deal with an extraordinary situation. What’s the phrase? No parent should ever outlive their children. Jordan’s murder has left Jake and Julie both traumatised. It’s fascinating to see how their already brittle relationship splinters even further. Their actions and reactions are pitched just right, blaming one another one moment and then reminiscing about their old life the next. The shared history that exists between them both keeps bubbling back up to the surface in a jumble of emotions.
This isn’t just a story about a man and a woman dealing with the death of a loved one. This is also the story of a man and woman dealing with the end of a chapter in their lives. Jake and Jules are forced to confront the ghosts from their collective past. Jake walked away from his life because he thought it was the right thing to do, but there was that niggling itch of self-doubt. Jordan’s death ensures there will never be a resolution to the question “what if?” All Jake can do is search for answers as he will never have the opportunity to reconcile with his daughter. I don’t think I can imagine a situation much worse. Missing the chance to even say goodbye, heart-breaking doesn’t even come close to describing it.
As events build to the climactic reveal, each passing scene grows darker and darker in tone. Jake’s desperation becomes all encompassing. He needs to discover the truth surrounding his daughter’s death. Having failed Jordan to often in life he refuses to fail her once again. The final denouement is a satisfyingly twisted pay off.
Fans of television shows like Broadchurch and The Killing, and I count myself amongst them, should seek out this novel. Like its televisual cousins, Her Last Secret tracks how a single violent act sends ripples out into a community. The reader is thrown into the chaos of Jake’s life and we get to experience every detail of his journey. The author expertly details the bonds that exist within a family, even a broken one, and the nature of grief.
Part psychological drama, part character study, Her Last Secret is a captivating and intense experience. It’s not often I find crime novels quite so emotive. I’ve read a lot of Kane’s other genre fiction, if you rummage around elsewhere on the site I’m sure you’ll find a few reviews of his work here and there*. His crime debut is just as self-assured and compelling as any of his other books. I look forward to more in the future.
Her Last Secret is published by HQ and is available now.
*For reference, P L Kane is a pseudonym for Paul Kane.
Kane’s taut narrative focuses on the human cost of a tragedy. The complex relationship between Jake and his ex-wife Jules also plays out in centre stage. There is acrimony, but also a sense of shared responsibility. Jordan will always be their daughter, and her death re-ignites all manner of feelings that have been long buried.
I think it is the characterisation where Kane’s writing excels. It certainly raises this above your standard crime thriller fare. Jake and Jules are so well fleshed out, they feel real. These are two ordinary people who have had to deal with an extraordinary situation. What’s the phrase? No parent should ever outlive their children. Jordan’s murder has left Jake and Julie both traumatised. It’s fascinating to see how their already brittle relationship splinters even further. Their actions and reactions are pitched just right, blaming one another one moment and then reminiscing about their old life the next. The shared history that exists between them both keeps bubbling back up to the surface in a jumble of emotions.
This isn’t just a story about a man and a woman dealing with the death of a loved one. This is also the story of a man and woman dealing with the end of a chapter in their lives. Jake and Jules are forced to confront the ghosts from their collective past. Jake walked away from his life because he thought it was the right thing to do, but there was that niggling itch of self-doubt. Jordan’s death ensures there will never be a resolution to the question “what if?” All Jake can do is search for answers as he will never have the opportunity to reconcile with his daughter. I don’t think I can imagine a situation much worse. Missing the chance to even say goodbye, heart-breaking doesn’t even come close to describing it.
As events build to the climactic reveal, each passing scene grows darker and darker in tone. Jake’s desperation becomes all encompassing. He needs to discover the truth surrounding his daughter’s death. Having failed Jordan to often in life he refuses to fail her once again. The final denouement is a satisfyingly twisted pay off.
Fans of television shows like Broadchurch and The Killing, and I count myself amongst them, should seek out this novel. Like its televisual cousins, Her Last Secret tracks how a single violent act sends ripples out into a community. The reader is thrown into the chaos of Jake’s life and we get to experience every detail of his journey. The author expertly details the bonds that exist within a family, even a broken one, and the nature of grief.
Part psychological drama, part character study, Her Last Secret is a captivating and intense experience. It’s not often I find crime novels quite so emotive. I’ve read a lot of Kane’s other genre fiction, if you rummage around elsewhere on the site I’m sure you’ll find a few reviews of his work here and there*. His crime debut is just as self-assured and compelling as any of his other books. I look forward to more in the future.
Her Last Secret is published by HQ and is available now.
*For reference, P L Kane is a pseudonym for Paul Kane.
December 28, 2022
I didn't get most of it but the ending is satisfying (mostly)
January 9, 2024
Bab pertama bertele-tele dan terlalu fokus dengan situasi antara ayah dan ibu Jordan yang nggak sat-set. Jujur capek banget bacanya, hampir DNF malah. Ceritanya mulai asyik di pertengahan bab kedua sampai akhir, itu pun masih ada beberapa hal yang menurutku "kurang" dijelaskan lagi. For me it has a big potential but, ya udahlah ya.
October 29, 2020
The problem with this for me was that the protagonist was so unlikeable and behaved in such a foolish manner that I struggled to care about him. His behaviour was rash to a ridiculous degree and it was very hard to believe that he would carry on behaving as he did. There were also plot points that made me raise my eyebrows. I felt that this had the seeds of an excellent work but needed more careful editing to bring it to fruition.
January 17, 2020
Jake Radcliffe’s daughter, Jordan, has been murdered, stabbed to death by her boyfriend, Robert ‘Bobby’ Bannister. It seems like an open and shut case – all the evidence points to Bobby being Jordan’s killer – but Jake feels something is off and decides to investigate and find out the truth. Despite being warned off on several occasions, he refuses to give up and looks into the events surrounding his daughter’s death with help from old friend and policeman, DC Mathew ‘Matt’ Newcomb.
Jake hasn’t seen his daughter for nearly three years. They’re estranged after the pair fell out and she told him she never wanted to see him again. When she was 15, Jordan got in with the wrong crowd and her personality changed and she began sleeping with lots of boys, smoking, possibly taking drugs, staying out late, disappearing for days on end and causing her parents worry and stress. Jake didn’t handle things well and gave up too easily on his daughter when the going got tough and just walked away and it resulted in the breakdown of his relationship with Jordan, as well as the end of his marriage to Julie.
A lot has happened since Jake left Redmarket and got a job with a local TV company and Julie has now remarried to widower Greg Allaway, who has a son called William. When Jake returns to town after Jordan’s death, he struggles to cope with what has happened and blames Julie for not protecting her and keeping her safe. They’re both distraught and have lots of regrets.
Jake and Julie go back a long way – they first met at school and were the Three Musketeers with Matt – and he still has lots of mixed-up feelings for her, which he struggles with. He also has a few jealous run ins with Greg as the men butt heads and rub each other up the wrong way. Greg can’t handle what has happened and drinks heavily and nearly self-destructs again but he manages to bring himself back from the brink with the help of Sam Ferrara, a lawyer who was hired to defend his daughter’s suspected killer.
After letting his daughter down in the past, Jake is now trying to do right by Jordan and be a better father and solve her murder, even though it’s, sadly, far too late to mend their relationship. He feels so guilty and tormented about the past and is full of remorse for everything that has happened that led to him walking out on Julie and Jordan.
Poor Jake was really tortured by the past and his actions and, even though he rather brought it all upon himself, I had sympathy for this poor grieving father who has lots of regrets and guilt and was unable to protect his little girl when it counted most and save her from being murdered.
This was an entertaining, well-written book and I really liked the way the plot developed and we got to know more about Jake and Jordan. The story was a bit slow paced at first but it was good to build up a picture of events and see things from Julie and Jordan’s viewpoints. Then things ramped up as Jake got nearer the truth and found himself in some dark and dangerous situations. There were lots of interesting twists and turns and a surprising back story is revealed that I wasn’t expecting! Overall, an enjoyable, quick read and I’ll be looking out for more of P.L. Kane’s books in the future.
Jake hasn’t seen his daughter for nearly three years. They’re estranged after the pair fell out and she told him she never wanted to see him again. When she was 15, Jordan got in with the wrong crowd and her personality changed and she began sleeping with lots of boys, smoking, possibly taking drugs, staying out late, disappearing for days on end and causing her parents worry and stress. Jake didn’t handle things well and gave up too easily on his daughter when the going got tough and just walked away and it resulted in the breakdown of his relationship with Jordan, as well as the end of his marriage to Julie.
A lot has happened since Jake left Redmarket and got a job with a local TV company and Julie has now remarried to widower Greg Allaway, who has a son called William. When Jake returns to town after Jordan’s death, he struggles to cope with what has happened and blames Julie for not protecting her and keeping her safe. They’re both distraught and have lots of regrets.
Jake and Julie go back a long way – they first met at school and were the Three Musketeers with Matt – and he still has lots of mixed-up feelings for her, which he struggles with. He also has a few jealous run ins with Greg as the men butt heads and rub each other up the wrong way. Greg can’t handle what has happened and drinks heavily and nearly self-destructs again but he manages to bring himself back from the brink with the help of Sam Ferrara, a lawyer who was hired to defend his daughter’s suspected killer.
After letting his daughter down in the past, Jake is now trying to do right by Jordan and be a better father and solve her murder, even though it’s, sadly, far too late to mend their relationship. He feels so guilty and tormented about the past and is full of remorse for everything that has happened that led to him walking out on Julie and Jordan.
Poor Jake was really tortured by the past and his actions and, even though he rather brought it all upon himself, I had sympathy for this poor grieving father who has lots of regrets and guilt and was unable to protect his little girl when it counted most and save her from being murdered.
This was an entertaining, well-written book and I really liked the way the plot developed and we got to know more about Jake and Jordan. The story was a bit slow paced at first but it was good to build up a picture of events and see things from Julie and Jordan’s viewpoints. Then things ramped up as Jake got nearer the truth and found himself in some dark and dangerous situations. There were lots of interesting twists and turns and a surprising back story is revealed that I wasn’t expecting! Overall, an enjoyable, quick read and I’ll be looking out for more of P.L. Kane’s books in the future.
January 25, 2020
TITLE: Her Last Secret
AUTHOR: P L Kane
GENRE: Mystery/Thriller
PAGES: 272
FORMAT: E-Book
I’ve seen this book scrolling across my social media feed and decided to give it a shot. The title alone caught my attention and I did some digging and discovered that the author P L Kane is actually Paul Kane. Since I have had a couple of his books under my belt, I was ready to dive in.
The set up for the book is a good one. A father gets a message that his estranged daughter was murdered. He goes back home to find out what happened. As he digs, some of his daughters darker secret come to light. The more he digs, the less he likes what he finds, until he get to her final secret, and it is one that can tear the whole town apart.
Overall, this was a fun and fast read. It is set in a small town in England, so it is chock full of British slang. If you are not up on your British slang, it can be a bit of a detractor, but not so much that it kills the book. The main character, Jacob Radcliffe, is one you want to see succeed, and some of the people in his way you really want to see get theirs.
I do have a couple of things that bugged me a tad. 1) There is a bit of repetition going on, and at times I wondered if I was still on the same page or not. 2) There is a relationship that is building that just gets dropped like a hot potato, and 3) When I got to what was really going on, it sort of came out of left field and I was left wondering how that kind of jump could be made. I had a feeling it was going to go the way that it did, but the lead in to it was like “Boom, here we go, it is their fault.” without the one responsible really being mentioned earlier in the book.
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Yes. Would I but this book for someone who likes the genre? Yes. Will I read anything else the author comes out with? Most definitely.
All in all I give this 4 bookmarks out of 5
AUTHOR: P L Kane
GENRE: Mystery/Thriller
PAGES: 272
FORMAT: E-Book
I’ve seen this book scrolling across my social media feed and decided to give it a shot. The title alone caught my attention and I did some digging and discovered that the author P L Kane is actually Paul Kane. Since I have had a couple of his books under my belt, I was ready to dive in.
The set up for the book is a good one. A father gets a message that his estranged daughter was murdered. He goes back home to find out what happened. As he digs, some of his daughters darker secret come to light. The more he digs, the less he likes what he finds, until he get to her final secret, and it is one that can tear the whole town apart.
Overall, this was a fun and fast read. It is set in a small town in England, so it is chock full of British slang. If you are not up on your British slang, it can be a bit of a detractor, but not so much that it kills the book. The main character, Jacob Radcliffe, is one you want to see succeed, and some of the people in his way you really want to see get theirs.
I do have a couple of things that bugged me a tad. 1) There is a bit of repetition going on, and at times I wondered if I was still on the same page or not. 2) There is a relationship that is building that just gets dropped like a hot potato, and 3) When I got to what was really going on, it sort of came out of left field and I was left wondering how that kind of jump could be made. I had a feeling it was going to go the way that it did, but the lead in to it was like “Boom, here we go, it is their fault.” without the one responsible really being mentioned earlier in the book.
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Yes. Would I but this book for someone who likes the genre? Yes. Will I read anything else the author comes out with? Most definitely.
All in all I give this 4 bookmarks out of 5
February 20, 2020
This is a gripping book that I just couldn’t put down. I found that I read it really quickly because I was really keen to know more. A tragic story of loss and grief, you feel the guilt, the regret, the ‘what ifs. An exciting murder mystery that will leave you emotionally drained but wholly satisfied.
Although at heart this is a crime story, you work through themes of family breakdowns, relationships and the pain of not being there for those that need you the most.
I enjoyed that there were many secrets uncovered throughout the book, some were just small and inconsequential, but some were huge (of course!) I was thrilled with some rather big plot twists – I didn’t predict them at all, and I generally can, well at least in some small part.
I enjoyed the authors writing style and characters that I would like to see more of in future books.
I would recommend if you fancy something exciting or enjoy the genre. I will look forward to more from the author.
Although at heart this is a crime story, you work through themes of family breakdowns, relationships and the pain of not being there for those that need you the most.
I enjoyed that there were many secrets uncovered throughout the book, some were just small and inconsequential, but some were huge (of course!) I was thrilled with some rather big plot twists – I didn’t predict them at all, and I generally can, well at least in some small part.
I enjoyed the authors writing style and characters that I would like to see more of in future books.
I would recommend if you fancy something exciting or enjoy the genre. I will look forward to more from the author.
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