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Relative Silence
A powerful family with lots of secrets. A forensic artist with his own tragedies. And a hurricane drawing bearing down on their private island.
Fifteen years ago Piper Boone’s only child died in a boating accident, and Piper’s almost perfect life came to an end too. After living through a divorce and losing her job, she retreats to Curlew Island and her childhood home—a secluded mansion for the politically powerful Boone family, who are practically American royalty.
But Piper’s desire to become a recluse is shattered when a mass shooter opens fire and kills three women at a café where Piper is having lunch. The crisis puts her family in the spotlight by dredging up rumors of the so-called Curlew Island Curse, which whispers say has taken the lives of several members of the Boone family, including Piper’s father and sister.
Forensic artist Tucker Landry also survives the shooting and is tasked with the job of sketching a portrait of the shooter with Piper. They forge a bond over their shared love of movies and tragic pasts. But when police discover a connection between the shooting and two more murders on Curlew Island, they face a more terrible lineup of suspects than they could have imagined: Piper’s family.
Unraveling the family’s true history will be the key to Piper’s survival—or her certain death.
Fifteen years ago Piper Boone’s only child died in a boating accident, and Piper’s almost perfect life came to an end too. After living through a divorce and losing her job, she retreats to Curlew Island and her childhood home—a secluded mansion for the politically powerful Boone family, who are practically American royalty.
But Piper’s desire to become a recluse is shattered when a mass shooter opens fire and kills three women at a café where Piper is having lunch. The crisis puts her family in the spotlight by dredging up rumors of the so-called Curlew Island Curse, which whispers say has taken the lives of several members of the Boone family, including Piper’s father and sister.
Forensic artist Tucker Landry also survives the shooting and is tasked with the job of sketching a portrait of the shooter with Piper. They forge a bond over their shared love of movies and tragic pasts. But when police discover a connection between the shooting and two more murders on Curlew Island, they face a more terrible lineup of suspects than they could have imagined: Piper’s family.
Unraveling the family’s true history will be the key to Piper’s survival—or her certain death.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2020
159 people are currently reading
4101 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Stuart Parks
35 books917 followersCarrie Stuart Parks is Christy, Carol, and Inspy award-winning author, an award-winning fine artist, and internationally known forensic artist. Along with her husband, Rick, she travels across the US and Canada teaching courses in forensic art to law enforcement as well as civilian participants. She has won numerous awards for career excellence. Carrie is a popular platform speaker, presenting a variety of topics from crime to creativity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
June 14, 2020
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Carrie Stuart Parks, and Thomas Nelson for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always a fan of Carrie Stuart Parks, I was eager to get my hands on this novel. Drawing on some of her past life experiences (no pun intended), Parks brings the story to life in this mystery that evolves throughout the reading experience. Piper Boone has suffered a number of traumatising experiences in her life, including the loss of her daughter fifteen years ago. However, on her more recent radar is being involved in a shooting rampage with the gunman seems to have been approaching her. It was only the quick actions of a mystery man—eventually identified as Tucker Landry—that saved Piper from likely death. While she works with the locals on Curlew Island in South Carolina, Piper tries to track her protector down and offer some thanks. She also finds herself wrapped up in a mystery when her island neighbour appears to have gone missing without a trace. The Boone family have all come to the island for the annual shareholders meeting, which brings up some old wounds or at least ones that Piper has not addressed for some time. After meeting and befriending Tucker, Piper works with him to create a composite sketch of the shooter, which helps the police hone in on the man responsible. With secrets coming to light, Piper and Tucker begin to wonder if the whispers of a family curse could be somewhat valid and work to discover if there is anything to substantiate. While she has been sitting on much for a while, Piper finds the courage to address the loss of her daughter and seeks answers that have, until now, been dismissed as part of a horrible afternoon fifteen years ago. Slowly, things come together and Piper realises that the Boone family has more in their closets than well-pressed clothes. Someone has been trying to divert attention away from the truth and it might be Tucker’s insistence to turn over every rock that finally brings some answers, as painful as they could be. A strong piece that reminds me of some earlier work of Parks’ I read, this is one that will have readers talking for a while. Recommended to those who love a good family mystery, as well as the reader who enjoys novels where secrets prove to reveal much about the foundation of truth.
I remember stumbling upon the work of Carrie Stuart Parks because of her unique use of a forensic artist as protagonist, which opened things up and created a story I could not resist. While she has strayed from that—sometimes more effectively than others—this novel breathes new life into her work and left me quite pleased. Piper Boone may be meandering through life after the loss of her daughter, but she is by no means giving up. Her determination has left her eager to seek answers, even if it means stepping away from the protective canopy that her well-to-do Southern family has erected. She feels many emotions and puts herself out there, seeking basic answers and refuses to cower away as life passes her by. Parks uses her effectively to convey this and many other emotions throughout the piece. Resurrecting her forensic artist character in Tucker Landry, Parks brings back some new and exciting life to the story, as he, too, has a past that is not entirely filled with sunshine and lollipops. Tucker works through his own past and seeks to help others, including crack the mysteries surrounding the Boone family wide open, even when others would prefer they stay buried. The use of a handful of secondary characters permits Parks to develop a strong story with a few key plot lines that keep things exciting for the reader. The story flows well and keeps its momentum throughout, adding plot twists throughout to keep things from being too predictable. With a mix of chapter lengths, the reader finds themselves pulled into the middle of this South Carolina mystery and wanting more throughout. While this may be a standalone novel, I can see the potential for Tucker and Piper to return again, in some form or the other. Either way, this is one of the stronger novels that Parks has written and I hope others find things within that help them to see the same!
Kudos, Madam Parks, for a great piece that kept me guessing throughout. Your fans will surely appreciate this piece, as we wait to see what else you have in store in the next year or two!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Always a fan of Carrie Stuart Parks, I was eager to get my hands on this novel. Drawing on some of her past life experiences (no pun intended), Parks brings the story to life in this mystery that evolves throughout the reading experience. Piper Boone has suffered a number of traumatising experiences in her life, including the loss of her daughter fifteen years ago. However, on her more recent radar is being involved in a shooting rampage with the gunman seems to have been approaching her. It was only the quick actions of a mystery man—eventually identified as Tucker Landry—that saved Piper from likely death. While she works with the locals on Curlew Island in South Carolina, Piper tries to track her protector down and offer some thanks. She also finds herself wrapped up in a mystery when her island neighbour appears to have gone missing without a trace. The Boone family have all come to the island for the annual shareholders meeting, which brings up some old wounds or at least ones that Piper has not addressed for some time. After meeting and befriending Tucker, Piper works with him to create a composite sketch of the shooter, which helps the police hone in on the man responsible. With secrets coming to light, Piper and Tucker begin to wonder if the whispers of a family curse could be somewhat valid and work to discover if there is anything to substantiate. While she has been sitting on much for a while, Piper finds the courage to address the loss of her daughter and seeks answers that have, until now, been dismissed as part of a horrible afternoon fifteen years ago. Slowly, things come together and Piper realises that the Boone family has more in their closets than well-pressed clothes. Someone has been trying to divert attention away from the truth and it might be Tucker’s insistence to turn over every rock that finally brings some answers, as painful as they could be. A strong piece that reminds me of some earlier work of Parks’ I read, this is one that will have readers talking for a while. Recommended to those who love a good family mystery, as well as the reader who enjoys novels where secrets prove to reveal much about the foundation of truth.
I remember stumbling upon the work of Carrie Stuart Parks because of her unique use of a forensic artist as protagonist, which opened things up and created a story I could not resist. While she has strayed from that—sometimes more effectively than others—this novel breathes new life into her work and left me quite pleased. Piper Boone may be meandering through life after the loss of her daughter, but she is by no means giving up. Her determination has left her eager to seek answers, even if it means stepping away from the protective canopy that her well-to-do Southern family has erected. She feels many emotions and puts herself out there, seeking basic answers and refuses to cower away as life passes her by. Parks uses her effectively to convey this and many other emotions throughout the piece. Resurrecting her forensic artist character in Tucker Landry, Parks brings back some new and exciting life to the story, as he, too, has a past that is not entirely filled with sunshine and lollipops. Tucker works through his own past and seeks to help others, including crack the mysteries surrounding the Boone family wide open, even when others would prefer they stay buried. The use of a handful of secondary characters permits Parks to develop a strong story with a few key plot lines that keep things exciting for the reader. The story flows well and keeps its momentum throughout, adding plot twists throughout to keep things from being too predictable. With a mix of chapter lengths, the reader finds themselves pulled into the middle of this South Carolina mystery and wanting more throughout. While this may be a standalone novel, I can see the potential for Tucker and Piper to return again, in some form or the other. Either way, this is one of the stronger novels that Parks has written and I hope others find things within that help them to see the same!
Kudos, Madam Parks, for a great piece that kept me guessing throughout. Your fans will surely appreciate this piece, as we wait to see what else you have in store in the next year or two!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
August 5, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
RELATIVE SILENCE by Carrie Stuart Parks is a mystery/Christian romantic suspense mash-up that pulls you in from the first page and is extremely difficult to put down. A powerful family that has known several tragic events over the years with the heroine from that family who finally decides to investigate those tragedies after she becomes a target.
Sandpiper “Piper” Boone has been told all her life she comes from the perfect family and tries to live up to that standard. When her young daughter is found dead, her marriage falls apart and she becomes a recluse on the family island compound.
Fifteen years later, forensic artist Tucker Landry is having lunch while waiting to begin his new assignment. A shooter opens fire and Tucker grabs the woman behind him and hits the patio floor. While Piper only receives a small injury, Tucker is shot protecting her as three other women are also killed. When the detective learns of Tucker’s skills, he asks Tucker and Piper to get together to produce a sketch of the shooter.
The authorities believe there is a connection between the shooting and two other murders that occur soon after. Piper and Tucker are in a race to find out who wants to kill Piper to hide long buried family secrets and a hurricane that threatens everyone.
This is a story that ticks off everything I am looking for in these genres; a mystery that keeps me guessing, action, unexpected twists, edge-of-your-seat suspense and a hero and heroine that are realistic and make me cheer for their relationship to have a HEA. Piper and Tucker are wonderful characters that have had terrible pasts that must be overcome as they struggle with the current race to reveal a murderer. I like that the injuries they received throughout the story were believable and they could overcome them or work around them without becoming fantastical super humans. Even with the small number of suspects, I was kept guessing and I always like when that happens. The religious beliefs and faith of the characters was not gratuitous or in your face.
This book is a compelling generational family mystery with a believable romantic suspense. I can highly recommend this story!
RELATIVE SILENCE by Carrie Stuart Parks is a mystery/Christian romantic suspense mash-up that pulls you in from the first page and is extremely difficult to put down. A powerful family that has known several tragic events over the years with the heroine from that family who finally decides to investigate those tragedies after she becomes a target.
Sandpiper “Piper” Boone has been told all her life she comes from the perfect family and tries to live up to that standard. When her young daughter is found dead, her marriage falls apart and she becomes a recluse on the family island compound.
Fifteen years later, forensic artist Tucker Landry is having lunch while waiting to begin his new assignment. A shooter opens fire and Tucker grabs the woman behind him and hits the patio floor. While Piper only receives a small injury, Tucker is shot protecting her as three other women are also killed. When the detective learns of Tucker’s skills, he asks Tucker and Piper to get together to produce a sketch of the shooter.
The authorities believe there is a connection between the shooting and two other murders that occur soon after. Piper and Tucker are in a race to find out who wants to kill Piper to hide long buried family secrets and a hurricane that threatens everyone.
This is a story that ticks off everything I am looking for in these genres; a mystery that keeps me guessing, action, unexpected twists, edge-of-your-seat suspense and a hero and heroine that are realistic and make me cheer for their relationship to have a HEA. Piper and Tucker are wonderful characters that have had terrible pasts that must be overcome as they struggle with the current race to reveal a murderer. I like that the injuries they received throughout the story were believable and they could overcome them or work around them without becoming fantastical super humans. Even with the small number of suspects, I was kept guessing and I always like when that happens. The religious beliefs and faith of the characters was not gratuitous or in your face.
This book is a compelling generational family mystery with a believable romantic suspense. I can highly recommend this story!
February 19, 2020
A richly twisted plot with layers of evil and family tension that will leave readers guessing. The book has a gothic feel and is filled with family pain, unresolved issues, and the need to stand for oneself. A really compelling read.
October 6, 2020
That was a rather twisted tale!
I liked how the novel begins 15 years in the past leaving readers wondering what happened. Also enjoyed how dogs played an important role and the multiple movie quotes.
This may be my favorite yet by Carrie Stuart Parks.
I liked how the novel begins 15 years in the past leaving readers wondering what happened. Also enjoyed how dogs played an important role and the multiple movie quotes.
This may be my favorite yet by Carrie Stuart Parks.
July 28, 2020
4.5 stars
Relative Silence is the fourth book I've read by Parks and another fantastic mystery. I found myself completely captured by the story and trying to figure out what was really going on.
I thought the characters were written well and the setting was great. The suspense kept building and, towards the end, I didn't want to stop reading because I HAD to know what was going to happen next.
All in all, Relative Silence was worth the read and I loved it. I recommend this book if you enjoy this genre. The ending was amazing and wrapped things up nicely.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
Relative Silence is the fourth book I've read by Parks and another fantastic mystery. I found myself completely captured by the story and trying to figure out what was really going on.
I thought the characters were written well and the setting was great. The suspense kept building and, towards the end, I didn't want to stop reading because I HAD to know what was going to happen next.
All in all, Relative Silence was worth the read and I loved it. I recommend this book if you enjoy this genre. The ending was amazing and wrapped things up nicely.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
July 3, 2020
Relative Silence is an edge of your seat mystery with a lovely setting in the South Carolina low country near Charleston. Living a life of privilege doesn't mean a great life. In this story, Piper Boone is from a well to do family but tragedy has struck many times with the deaths of several family members, including her three year old daughter fifteen years ago. When she is almost shot at an outdoor restaurant, a man at a nearby table pushes her down and gets shot himself with a minor injury. Tucker Landry has had his own history of tragedy but his faith has helped him recover. Other incidents continue and the two work together along with the help of a marine patrol agent to find out who is trying to get rid of Piper. Could it be one of her self centered family members, her ex-husband who still works with the family business, a family employee, or someone else? When a hurricane hits, things get very scary between the weather and the killer. With lots of twists and turns, this complicated story kept me guessing and more than a little surprised at the villain. This is a great read to keep you turning the pages.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas Nelson Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
October 20, 2020
Groping for words to use in a review again. This was one thrilling, mind-boggling, emotional roller-coasting, gah-there-are-too-many-suspects kind of suspense. My brain is still addled and I'm feeling bereft because I've now read all of Carrie Stuart Parks' books. Someone please tell me she has a new release coming out soon!
One of this author's strengths (and she has many) is the way she brings broken characters to life. They are real and raw and hurting -- and, as my friend is always saying, 'hurt people hurt people.' Love the gritty honesty portrayed in both Piper and Tucker. They are wounded and scarred, limping through life as they grapple with the enormity of overcoming. But they are brought together for such a time as this and the way they connect is thrilling. There is so much depth to the emotional and spiritual aspects of their lives that I'm still reeling from it all.
And pay attention to the details, readers. Because that's another of Parks' strengths -- the way she weaves together seemingly random bits of flotsam until you suddenly see something solid taking shape.
The suspense is compelling -- the kind of edge of your seat stuff that transform a good plot into something exceptional. I'm still a little light-headed from all the breath-holding! :-)
A definite must-read for the discerning suspense aficionado who loves intense suspense with a side of romance.
One of this author's strengths (and she has many) is the way she brings broken characters to life. They are real and raw and hurting -- and, as my friend is always saying, 'hurt people hurt people.' Love the gritty honesty portrayed in both Piper and Tucker. They are wounded and scarred, limping through life as they grapple with the enormity of overcoming. But they are brought together for such a time as this and the way they connect is thrilling. There is so much depth to the emotional and spiritual aspects of their lives that I'm still reeling from it all.
And pay attention to the details, readers. Because that's another of Parks' strengths -- the way she weaves together seemingly random bits of flotsam until you suddenly see something solid taking shape.
The suspense is compelling -- the kind of edge of your seat stuff that transform a good plot into something exceptional. I'm still a little light-headed from all the breath-holding! :-)
A definite must-read for the discerning suspense aficionado who loves intense suspense with a side of romance.
July 14, 2020
A powerful southern family with secrets and maybe a curse. Piper Boone returns to Curlew Island South Carolina, and her family home after a divorce. She longs to be left alone. Piper has had her share of heartache, losing her daughter in an accident fifteen years ago. When a mass shooter opens fire in cafe Piper is almost killed. Almost, Tucker knocks her down on the ground saving her. There are whispers of her family and the Curlew Island curse. The Boone family has had many tragedies. Looking to thank Tucker for saving her, she finds that Tucker is a Forensic Artist. Sketching a portrait of the shooter. Piper and Tucker connect over their love of movies and both are shadowed with a painful past. There is a connection between the shooter and two other murders that point to the powerful Boone Family. I loved the connection between Piper and Tucker. Two broken souls that share so much heartache. A suspenseful southern gothic tale. I loved it.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
August 16, 2020
This was my first Carrie Parks novel. I have been wanting to try her for awhile since I enjoy Christian suspense and this story line sounded very good. It was an interesting read. I didn't love it for a couple of reasons. One the style was a little different then what I am used to, secondly the story was a little over the top for me. It just didn't click for me. I will read some of her other books and see if it was just this book that missed the mark for me.
July 31, 2020
This was a mesmerizing book that was filled with suspense and all of the twists and turns that I love in this genre. Carrie Stuart Parks includes her signature forensic artist in the book in the form of Tucker Landry. Tucker was enjoying lunch at a local cafe in SC when he notices a shooter aiming at the young women at the table next to him. Launching himself from his seat, he tackles Piper Boone and saves her life, taking the bullet for her. The mystery and suspense began with that event and continues to build throughout the book. This is the story of Piper, her determination to survive after the death of her young daughter, and her quest to find out her family’s secrets so that she can be safe in her chosen home of Curlew Island. This family is complicated and all of them seem to have secrets that threaten the safety of the family on the island. There is a hurricane headed their way, also making the sense of urgency even more apparent. I loved the tense atmosphere of the book, along with the characters who were uppity (like the mother), kind and loving (like Mildred, the housekeeper and Piper’s substitute mother), and focused (like Tern, Piper’s brother who wants to rise in politics). Of course, my favorite character was Piper but I also liked seeing the development of Tucker as a hero who had his own secrets. The neighbor is missing. A body is found in the pool. So much happens so quickly in this novel that it didn’t just entertain; it totally captured me in the action. The author did a masterful job of revealing secrets slowly and building suspense all along, with each revelation. The ending was not predictable at all and it totally wrapped everything up. I loved this book and highly recommend it to those who enjoy suspense and mysteries that are completely clean reads!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Thomas Nelson Publishers via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Thomas Nelson Publishers via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
July 25, 2022
A great 4.5 star book!!
Tucker saves Piper from a mass shooting. Back on her island she lives on people are dying and the rumor of a curse that is on the island is proving true. Tucker and Piper goes to find out who is doing the killing. Piper lost her daughter and now with the murders she discovers that she might be alive. Can Piper hold it together and find out the truth? A fun thriller!! You won't believe the ending of this book!! A fun read that I highly recommend!!!
Tucker saves Piper from a mass shooting. Back on her island she lives on people are dying and the rumor of a curse that is on the island is proving true. Tucker and Piper goes to find out who is doing the killing. Piper lost her daughter and now with the murders she discovers that she might be alive. Can Piper hold it together and find out the truth? A fun thriller!! You won't believe the ending of this book!! A fun read that I highly recommend!!!
June 14, 2020
Piper Boone is meeting with her friend for lunch who she hasn’t seen in a very long time when a shooter opens fire, and kills her friend Ami and injures Tucker Landry, a forensic artist. Piper is upset and rightly so, and she is insistent on meeting Tucker Landry, who has survived the shooting. She wants to thank him for what he did to keep her safe. Piper invites Tucker to continue his healing at her family’s home and finds out he’s got a past that isn’t too pretty. Though neither one can deny the attraction between the two of them, and their mutual propensity for movies.
Fifteen years earlier, Piper lost her daughter Dove in a boating accident, then goes through a divorce, and more she recently has lost her job as an editor. She’s become something of a recluse and I didn’t appreciate (or like) that her former husband is still around like he still considers himself a part of the Boone family.
Joyce Mueller, a friend of her mothers is missing, and her (Joyce’s) granddaughter Hannah comes down from Wisconsin to help with search of her grandmother. Piper feels this connection to this girl that she seemly hasn’t ever met before. There is a lot going on in the Boone family that Piper realizes she doesn’t know the whole picture and would like to understand. How did her sister and father die, and are they apart this so-called Curlew Island curse?
I didn’t connect with the characters as much as I would’ve like to, but there were so many unanswered questions that there was no way that I wouldn’t finish. The mystery was compelling (and so was the writing) and well thought out in my opinion, and that alone kept me reading. 3.5 stars
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Fifteen years earlier, Piper lost her daughter Dove in a boating accident, then goes through a divorce, and more she recently has lost her job as an editor. She’s become something of a recluse and I didn’t appreciate (or like) that her former husband is still around like he still considers himself a part of the Boone family.
Joyce Mueller, a friend of her mothers is missing, and her (Joyce’s) granddaughter Hannah comes down from Wisconsin to help with search of her grandmother. Piper feels this connection to this girl that she seemly hasn’t ever met before. There is a lot going on in the Boone family that Piper realizes she doesn’t know the whole picture and would like to understand. How did her sister and father die, and are they apart this so-called Curlew Island curse?
I didn’t connect with the characters as much as I would’ve like to, but there were so many unanswered questions that there was no way that I wouldn’t finish. The mystery was compelling (and so was the writing) and well thought out in my opinion, and that alone kept me reading. 3.5 stars
My gratitude to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 14, 2020
When I sit down and open up a Parks novel, I know I’m going to not want to put it down! That’s exactly what happened with this novel, and I read it in less than 24 hours! I fell in love, once again, with the talented writing style that Carrie Stuart Parks is known for, and her plot line instantly hooked me. Her characters became more than just characters in the story, they became a part of me, and I felt every single emotion.
I absolutely fell in love with Piper and with Tucker. Their characters were chiseled perfectly and really came to life for me. Reading Piper’s story, it was more like watching a thriller movie on the Lifetime Channel like I used to do years ago with my mama. Piper’s story is filled with twist after twist, and turn upon turn, creating a roller coaster effect for this story! It. Was. INTENSE. And, just when I thought I had it ALL figured out…….BAM! Parks throws in the unexpected and I’m left with my jaw on the floor and feeling like it was ME that just went through all the pain and suffering, and instensity that Piper felt!
This is another home run hit for the fantastic Carrie Stuart Parks. If you are looking for a book that will make you keep turning page after page, neglecting your family, and losing sleep…….well, this is it! Grab it up, sit back, and get lost among the pages! Your heart will pound, your knuckles will turn white, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat NEEDING to know what happens next. Well done, Parks, well done! Bring on the next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
I absolutely fell in love with Piper and with Tucker. Their characters were chiseled perfectly and really came to life for me. Reading Piper’s story, it was more like watching a thriller movie on the Lifetime Channel like I used to do years ago with my mama. Piper’s story is filled with twist after twist, and turn upon turn, creating a roller coaster effect for this story! It. Was. INTENSE. And, just when I thought I had it ALL figured out…….BAM! Parks throws in the unexpected and I’m left with my jaw on the floor and feeling like it was ME that just went through all the pain and suffering, and instensity that Piper felt!
This is another home run hit for the fantastic Carrie Stuart Parks. If you are looking for a book that will make you keep turning page after page, neglecting your family, and losing sleep…….well, this is it! Grab it up, sit back, and get lost among the pages! Your heart will pound, your knuckles will turn white, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat NEEDING to know what happens next. Well done, Parks, well done! Bring on the next!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Author/Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
January 6, 2021
First time reading this author. Kept me guessing until the end.
April 10, 2020
I was engrossed in this story from the start and instantly cared for main character Piper in the prologue flash back, “The piercing scream ripped up my spine. I dropped the spatula and spun.”
Readers are then brought to current time as Piper finds herself yet again in another life-threatening situation. In the first chapter - first line, “I couldn’t breathe. A man’s weight across my body crushed me to the sidewalk.”
The first chapter begins with a bang (literally) and has you and main character Piper ducking for cover. As she realizes an active shooter is on the loose, and the someone on top of her saved her life. Her savior/guy is whisked away in an ambulance before she has a chance to thank him. His name is Tucker Landry, who just so happens to be a sketch artist. The authorities ask him to work on a composite sketch for the active shooter he saw. I liked getting to know Tucker and Piper as they work together to chase down the shooter.
This is a brilliantly written, fast-paced engaging story with likable and unlikable characters in the mix. I enjoyed how the author has events swiftly unfold, moving readers along, but not too fast. The novel gradually builds, along with a massive hurricane threatening to hit land at a fierce speed. Things become dangerous in the investigation as a hurricane gets close to the island (Piper and Tucker are on), having them hunker down as they wait out the threatening storm.
I adored the authors use of enjoyable laughable moments between Tucker and Piper. As they test each other’s knowledge of movies and favorite lines from them. This light humor accentuates more serious themes and shows off witty dialogue that makes you smile. I loved that. Here’s an example: Tucker grinned. “What we have here,” he said in his best Southern drawl, “ is a failure to communicate.”
“Cool Hand Luke, 1967,” Piper smiled slightly.
Tucker lowered his voice. “Of all the ginjoints in all the towns in all the world “She walks into mine.” ..
”Piper replies, “That was easy. Casablanca, 1942.” I found this line of dialogue well timed and fun as the author sprinkled it throughout the story.
I enjoyed this captivating, fun filled, nail-biting adventure; with lots of twists and turns I didn’t see coming (neither did the characters). There is a splash of wholesome romance, a mix of danger, and mystery to solve. I liked the natural, non-preachy thread of faith woven in, and the unforeseen quest that changes everything for Tucker and Piper. This is a novel I couldn’t put down, with a satisfying ending. So, be prepared to burn the midnight oil while reading this page turner. If you haven’t read a book by this author, I highly recommend this one. This would work well for you next book club pick. There is so much to talk about.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Readers are then brought to current time as Piper finds herself yet again in another life-threatening situation. In the first chapter - first line, “I couldn’t breathe. A man’s weight across my body crushed me to the sidewalk.”
The first chapter begins with a bang (literally) and has you and main character Piper ducking for cover. As she realizes an active shooter is on the loose, and the someone on top of her saved her life. Her savior/guy is whisked away in an ambulance before she has a chance to thank him. His name is Tucker Landry, who just so happens to be a sketch artist. The authorities ask him to work on a composite sketch for the active shooter he saw. I liked getting to know Tucker and Piper as they work together to chase down the shooter.
This is a brilliantly written, fast-paced engaging story with likable and unlikable characters in the mix. I enjoyed how the author has events swiftly unfold, moving readers along, but not too fast. The novel gradually builds, along with a massive hurricane threatening to hit land at a fierce speed. Things become dangerous in the investigation as a hurricane gets close to the island (Piper and Tucker are on), having them hunker down as they wait out the threatening storm.
I adored the authors use of enjoyable laughable moments between Tucker and Piper. As they test each other’s knowledge of movies and favorite lines from them. This light humor accentuates more serious themes and shows off witty dialogue that makes you smile. I loved that. Here’s an example: Tucker grinned. “What we have here,” he said in his best Southern drawl, “ is a failure to communicate.”
“Cool Hand Luke, 1967,” Piper smiled slightly.
Tucker lowered his voice. “Of all the ginjoints in all the towns in all the world “She walks into mine.” ..
”Piper replies, “That was easy. Casablanca, 1942.” I found this line of dialogue well timed and fun as the author sprinkled it throughout the story.
I enjoyed this captivating, fun filled, nail-biting adventure; with lots of twists and turns I didn’t see coming (neither did the characters). There is a splash of wholesome romance, a mix of danger, and mystery to solve. I liked the natural, non-preachy thread of faith woven in, and the unforeseen quest that changes everything for Tucker and Piper. This is a novel I couldn’t put down, with a satisfying ending. So, be prepared to burn the midnight oil while reading this page turner. If you haven’t read a book by this author, I highly recommend this one. This would work well for you next book club pick. There is so much to talk about.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
July 6, 2020
The pages flew as I devoured this read, what an amazing job this author did with this book.
We are given a woman who has suffered the loss of her precious child, and although fifteen years has past, her grief has never gone away. She comes from an affluent family and uses most of her money to help helpless animals.
So now why did someone try to kill her? Well the event at the beginning of the book ends up with her friend dead and a man wounded. Random? Keep reading!
My mind was trying to figure out what was going on here, but I never got it right. You think you know what is going to happen and whom is involved, maybe you will be right, but I doubt it.
I loved the epilogue, maybe not what your expecting, but surprises abound!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are given a woman who has suffered the loss of her precious child, and although fifteen years has past, her grief has never gone away. She comes from an affluent family and uses most of her money to help helpless animals.
So now why did someone try to kill her? Well the event at the beginning of the book ends up with her friend dead and a man wounded. Random? Keep reading!
My mind was trying to figure out what was going on here, but I never got it right. You think you know what is going to happen and whom is involved, maybe you will be right, but I doubt it.
I loved the epilogue, maybe not what your expecting, but surprises abound!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.
June 12, 2020
Parks is a master of suspense and has a signature style that I enjoy. She reminds you that people are not always what they seem and that the danger is often closer than you think. The secluded nature of the island added to the eery feel of this story.
Piper is just trying to get through life after multiple tragedies when she is thrown to the ground by a man who saves her from being shot at a cafe. She later wants to thank him for saving her life and finds out that he's a forensic artist. She asks him to help her do an age progression of her daughter who died 15 years ago. They soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery as family secrets are revealed. The danger increases and there's a terrific sense of urgency as they figure things out right as a hurricane threatens the island.
There are a few twists along the way and it's a hard book to put down. I'd highly recommend it. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Piper is just trying to get through life after multiple tragedies when she is thrown to the ground by a man who saves her from being shot at a cafe. She later wants to thank him for saving her life and finds out that he's a forensic artist. She asks him to help her do an age progression of her daughter who died 15 years ago. They soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery as family secrets are revealed. The danger increases and there's a terrific sense of urgency as they figure things out right as a hurricane threatens the island.
There are a few twists along the way and it's a hard book to put down. I'd highly recommend it. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2020
“We have the perfect home on the perfect island for the perfect family.”
“In the words of Corrie Ten Boom, ‘Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.’”
“‘One way or the other, the silence in the family has got to be broken.’”
Carrie Stuart Parks has written an intense book that hits you with the force of a Category 5 hurricane! What I love most about this book is that it not only has a fantastic mystery element to it, but that it also weaves together family dynamics. At its core, this book is about the pain of what secrets can cause within a family and how it can destroy. And as always, Parks blends in faith elements and creates several realistic Christian characters who put their hope and trust in Jesus Christ. I loved every moment of this book from the characters to the island setting to the mystery (I guessed part of it but still soooo many surprises!) to the movie references to the intensity of certain scenes. I am a huge fan of Carrie Stuart Parks and this book is a good reminder for me to go ahead and read more of her fantastic Gwen Marcey series!
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
“In the words of Corrie Ten Boom, ‘Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.’”
“‘One way or the other, the silence in the family has got to be broken.’”
Carrie Stuart Parks has written an intense book that hits you with the force of a Category 5 hurricane! What I love most about this book is that it not only has a fantastic mystery element to it, but that it also weaves together family dynamics. At its core, this book is about the pain of what secrets can cause within a family and how it can destroy. And as always, Parks blends in faith elements and creates several realistic Christian characters who put their hope and trust in Jesus Christ. I loved every moment of this book from the characters to the island setting to the mystery (I guessed part of it but still soooo many surprises!) to the movie references to the intensity of certain scenes. I am a huge fan of Carrie Stuart Parks and this book is a good reminder for me to go ahead and read more of her fantastic Gwen Marcey series!
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
April 20, 2020
What a hurricane of emotions this book draws up! I could not stop thinking about this book when I wasn’t reading it. I was very drawn to the characters and the story and without spoiling the book… I had so many feelings. You can’t go wrong with any of Carrie Stuart Parks books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the Publisher and was under no obligation to post a favorable review.
July 31, 2020
4.5 Stars! Admittedly, thriller is not my number 1 genre because I’m a bit of a scaredy cat and granted, I actually expected this to be more romantic suspense than actual thriller which it wasn’t really, but I’m pretty excited by this Christian thriller by a new to me author... so much so that I’ve gone back to get her backlist because this was such an exciting read.
The premise of this book is that Piper, who comes from a wealthy family, and is rebuilding her life after a devastating tragedy 15 years prior, realizes that all is not as it seems with her family when there is an attempt on her life. What follows is an exciting whodunnit where Piper has to decide if she really wants to discover the dangerous secrets of the past and moreover, who she can trust to help her do so.
I thought this was an incredibly well-written story, not so many twists and turns that it is in any way a demanding le creepy psychological thriller, but enough mystery and suspense to keep you guessing and engaged. I feel like the religious messages in this are pretty light but the themes of forgiveness and faith are dealt with well enough to satisfy a person of (Christian) faith, but not so much so that a non-Christian person wouldn’t feel the messages were accessible. I think the message was balanced really well with the plot and you could tell the author made a mostly successful attempt to make it a seamless blend between message and plot. I feel like the secondary characters like Mandy could have been developed a little farther but it wasn’t irksome and it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story.
This book as I expected does have romantic overtones even though this is by no means a romance as that is not the central element of the plot. My romance-loving heart would have loved to see a little more relationship development between Piper and Tucker but that would have changed the genre of this and I think for this genre of thriller, the romantic aspect was fine and I was willing to suspend disbelief and go with it. It felt quite well-done and was enjoyable to read. This book is violent although not gratuitously so but it doesn’t have adult language in it or sexual situations if that’s something you’re avoiding as a reader. No one has ever accused me of being a Nancy Drew but I didn’t really expect the ending and I was at the edge of my seat right until the epilogue. I really liked everything about this one and I’m totally sold on checking out the author’s other work. I recommend this if you like thrillers and/or are Christian or if you just want to check out the diversity of great Christian fiction out there.I enjoyed this perfectly-balanced Christian thriller and found the blend of family betrayal, loss, internal strength, faith and overcoming in this whodunnit, very much to my taste.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The premise of this book is that Piper, who comes from a wealthy family, and is rebuilding her life after a devastating tragedy 15 years prior, realizes that all is not as it seems with her family when there is an attempt on her life. What follows is an exciting whodunnit where Piper has to decide if she really wants to discover the dangerous secrets of the past and moreover, who she can trust to help her do so.
I thought this was an incredibly well-written story, not so many twists and turns that it is in any way a demanding le creepy psychological thriller, but enough mystery and suspense to keep you guessing and engaged. I feel like the religious messages in this are pretty light but the themes of forgiveness and faith are dealt with well enough to satisfy a person of (Christian) faith, but not so much so that a non-Christian person wouldn’t feel the messages were accessible. I think the message was balanced really well with the plot and you could tell the author made a mostly successful attempt to make it a seamless blend between message and plot. I feel like the secondary characters like Mandy could have been developed a little farther but it wasn’t irksome and it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the story.
This book as I expected does have romantic overtones even though this is by no means a romance as that is not the central element of the plot. My romance-loving heart would have loved to see a little more relationship development between Piper and Tucker but that would have changed the genre of this and I think for this genre of thriller, the romantic aspect was fine and I was willing to suspend disbelief and go with it. It felt quite well-done and was enjoyable to read. This book is violent although not gratuitously so but it doesn’t have adult language in it or sexual situations if that’s something you’re avoiding as a reader. No one has ever accused me of being a Nancy Drew but I didn’t really expect the ending and I was at the edge of my seat right until the epilogue. I really liked everything about this one and I’m totally sold on checking out the author’s other work. I recommend this if you like thrillers and/or are Christian or if you just want to check out the diversity of great Christian fiction out there.I enjoyed this perfectly-balanced Christian thriller and found the blend of family betrayal, loss, internal strength, faith and overcoming in this whodunnit, very much to my taste.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 1, 2020
3.5 stars. Curlew Island, South Carolina houses the Boone family estate. There's a shooting at an outdoor restaurant and Tucker Landry is shot while trying to help Piper Boone. The entire family is grateful. Since Tucker is a forensic artist, Piper asks him to draw a picture of what her daughter would look like today. Fifteen years ago, her 3 year old daughter Dove died.
This book is what I would call a Christian thriller. There are several mysteries in the story. 1) who killed Dove, 2) who is behind the shooting, and 3) why is Dr Mueller missing. The author uses movie quotes and religious references. The ending is full of action.
Interesting side note for me -- the ending is made more suspenseful because of the impending hurricane. It's named Marco. In August, we had Hurricane Marco on the gulf coast.
This book is what I would call a Christian thriller. There are several mysteries in the story. 1) who killed Dove, 2) who is behind the shooting, and 3) why is Dr Mueller missing. The author uses movie quotes and religious references. The ending is full of action.
Interesting side note for me -- the ending is made more suspenseful because of the impending hurricane. It's named Marco. In August, we had Hurricane Marco on the gulf coast.
July 17, 2020
Relative Silence is another really enjoyable mystery that has come across my TBR recently. The main story starts with Piper being thrown to the ground by a man who shields her from flying bullets. Locals think the attempt on her life is the latest in the curse of her family's island. As I said, I really enjoyed this one. There were so many twists that I devoured the book in order to find out what was really going on. This is the kind of mystery that I like the most, one that keeps me guessing until the big reveal.
I really liked Piper and Tucker. Both of them are putting their lives back together after experiencing tragedy. One thing I loved about Piper was the way she quoted movie scenes to help her get through situations that made her anxious. That was really unique. It is a stand alone and in a way I am disappointed. I would love to read more about them in another story. They were great at solving this mystery. There was a hint at romance and I would have loved to have that explored a bit further as well. I highly recommend this one!
I really liked Piper and Tucker. Both of them are putting their lives back together after experiencing tragedy. One thing I loved about Piper was the way she quoted movie scenes to help her get through situations that made her anxious. That was really unique. It is a stand alone and in a way I am disappointed. I would love to read more about them in another story. They were great at solving this mystery. There was a hint at romance and I would have loved to have that explored a bit further as well. I highly recommend this one!
June 27, 2020
Relative Silence by Carrie Stuart Parks will have your mind racing. Early in the book you realize that something is definitely wrong with this family. The family reminds you of something from the Stepford Wives where they have no emotions as they are more worried about how they look to the outside world.
Piper’s daughter is killed when she’s three years old and Piper has lived in a fog ever since. When she’s almost killed at a restaurant it seems to wake her up.
Tucker was at the restaurant and tried to protect Piper. They develop a friendship and he helps her try to figure out what is going on when strange things start happening. Tucker had his own issues that I didn’t see coming. Even though Piper was a hot mess I liked her character. At first I was a little put off by all the movie references. But you realize it becomes part of her personality and her coping mechanism.
As Piper was trying to figure out what happened to her daughter and what was going on in her family you’re right there with her trying to put the pieces together.
I would recommend the book. It truly has you trying to figure out what’s going on, who’s involved in what, and how it’s all related. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It’s one of those books you also keep thinking about after it’s over.
Violence – shootings, deaths, and the memories of her daughter’s death
I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
Piper’s daughter is killed when she’s three years old and Piper has lived in a fog ever since. When she’s almost killed at a restaurant it seems to wake her up.
Tucker was at the restaurant and tried to protect Piper. They develop a friendship and he helps her try to figure out what is going on when strange things start happening. Tucker had his own issues that I didn’t see coming. Even though Piper was a hot mess I liked her character. At first I was a little put off by all the movie references. But you realize it becomes part of her personality and her coping mechanism.
As Piper was trying to figure out what happened to her daughter and what was going on in her family you’re right there with her trying to put the pieces together.
I would recommend the book. It truly has you trying to figure out what’s going on, who’s involved in what, and how it’s all related. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It’s one of those books you also keep thinking about after it’s over.
Violence – shootings, deaths, and the memories of her daughter’s death
I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.
June 13, 2020
A few years ago I read the first book in the Gwen Marcey series. I liked that but for some reason not that much and this is only my second book by this author. But I’m glad I picked up this book and will go back and finish that series as well as read other books by this author.
This was a fast paced murder mystery. From the first line in the prologue, to the first line in the first chapter to the last page there was so much going on with attempted murders, missing people and secretive family members. I had a few suspects but was definitely kept in the dark till the end. All I can say is one twisted baddie.
There were a few things I would have liked more detail on especially wrt Tucker. Even though he was the ‘hero’, he felt a bit side lined after 50% and is backstory felt a bit rushed. The ending to the epilogue was also a bit rushed, I would have liked more detail about a few things.
I received a review copy so not sure if the following has changed but the following could have been a bit better when jumping from Piper’s POV (first person) to Tucker’s (third person) - the POV’s jumped from one paragraph to another, I would have appreciated some sort of indicators, even if it was just a symbol between the two paragraphs. Also, Piper and Tucker would randomly start quoting moving lines - if these lines were in a different font, it might have helped me follow easier (I had to reread section a few times to make sense of going on).
But apart from that, this was a great fast paced suspense which kept me turning the pages and holding my breath to see how things will turn out. I also liked how Tucked and Mandy easily spoke about God with Piper.
Recommended to fans of suspense.
*I received a complimentary copy from the published through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.*
This was a fast paced murder mystery. From the first line in the prologue, to the first line in the first chapter to the last page there was so much going on with attempted murders, missing people and secretive family members. I had a few suspects but was definitely kept in the dark till the end. All I can say is one twisted baddie.
There were a few things I would have liked more detail on especially wrt Tucker. Even though he was the ‘hero’, he felt a bit side lined after 50% and is backstory felt a bit rushed. The ending to the epilogue was also a bit rushed, I would have liked more detail about a few things.
I received a review copy so not sure if the following has changed but the following could have been a bit better when jumping from Piper’s POV (first person) to Tucker’s (third person) - the POV’s jumped from one paragraph to another, I would have appreciated some sort of indicators, even if it was just a symbol between the two paragraphs. Also, Piper and Tucker would randomly start quoting moving lines - if these lines were in a different font, it might have helped me follow easier (I had to reread section a few times to make sense of going on).
But apart from that, this was a great fast paced suspense which kept me turning the pages and holding my breath to see how things will turn out. I also liked how Tucked and Mandy easily spoke about God with Piper.
Recommended to fans of suspense.
*I received a complimentary copy from the published through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.*
January 30, 2020
'No one had an alibi and everyone had a motive.'
There's an old saying that every family has skeletons in the closet. Well, welcome to the closet. Piper Boone suffered a great loss fifteen years ago when her only child, two year old Dove, was killed in a boating accident. She returns to her childhood home on Curlew Island, South Carolina, after a divorce and determines to live as secluded life as the home is secluded. Her family is practically American royalty but she wants no part of all that. Her longing for a quiet life is suddenly destroyed when a mass shooter opens fire and kills three women at a café where she is having lunch, one woman at her table. It's not long before the press is bringing up the old Curlew Island Curse that hovers over the Boone family.
Tucker Landry, forensic artist is also a survivor of the shooting and also saves Piper's life. He is given the job of sketching the shooter because Piper remembers how he looked. They have a bit of a bond between them but soon the police make new discoveries and Piper's own family is suspect.
Carrie Stuart Parks, an internationally known forensic artist herself, is in fine form here. Her skills as a forensic artist absolutely make her books come alive. She deftly crafts a puzzle which is gripping and she has a great eye for detail. This is a compelling read, and as the action draws to a conclusion, with a hurricane bearing down on the island, no one seems to be safe and everyone looks like a suspect. A riveting conclusion that I absolutely did not expect! Bravo! Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
There's an old saying that every family has skeletons in the closet. Well, welcome to the closet. Piper Boone suffered a great loss fifteen years ago when her only child, two year old Dove, was killed in a boating accident. She returns to her childhood home on Curlew Island, South Carolina, after a divorce and determines to live as secluded life as the home is secluded. Her family is practically American royalty but she wants no part of all that. Her longing for a quiet life is suddenly destroyed when a mass shooter opens fire and kills three women at a café where she is having lunch, one woman at her table. It's not long before the press is bringing up the old Curlew Island Curse that hovers over the Boone family.
Tucker Landry, forensic artist is also a survivor of the shooting and also saves Piper's life. He is given the job of sketching the shooter because Piper remembers how he looked. They have a bit of a bond between them but soon the police make new discoveries and Piper's own family is suspect.
Carrie Stuart Parks, an internationally known forensic artist herself, is in fine form here. Her skills as a forensic artist absolutely make her books come alive. She deftly crafts a puzzle which is gripping and she has a great eye for detail. This is a compelling read, and as the action draws to a conclusion, with a hurricane bearing down on the island, no one seems to be safe and everyone looks like a suspect. A riveting conclusion that I absolutely did not expect! Bravo! Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through Net Galley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 24, 2024
Totally would have not guessed the twist
May 11, 2020
Fifteen years after the fateful day that Sandpiper Boone lost her three-year-old daughter, a gunman fires shots into the crowded patio of her favorite restaurant. Once again, her life veers off in a trajectory she never imagined. This time, she wants to know what happened, and why. For too long she’s lived under the murky blanket of regret and remorse. Maybe the truth as she knows it had nothing to do with reality.
Tucker Landry, the man who saved her from the sniper, could turn out to be the one person who can help Piper investigate the past. He, too, knows the cold waters of regret. Piper’s invitation to stay at the family estate on Curlew Island as he recovers from his injuries seems like the perfect opportunity to get to know her better.
But something seems terribly wrong on the island—missing people, dead bodies, and deadly family secrets. Piper and Tucker work to uncover the past and find a demented killer as a hurricane approaches Curlew Island.
Carrie Stuart Parks has mastered the art of suspense. You’ll wonder about the killer’s identity from the first page to the last chapter—and find yourself surprised at the who and why. I love how her flawed heroine and hero work through their hang-ups and come to new understandings about God’s grace in their lives. Parks never preaches, but her message remains clear—we have a grace-filled God who pursues us.
Tucker Landry, the man who saved her from the sniper, could turn out to be the one person who can help Piper investigate the past. He, too, knows the cold waters of regret. Piper’s invitation to stay at the family estate on Curlew Island as he recovers from his injuries seems like the perfect opportunity to get to know her better.
But something seems terribly wrong on the island—missing people, dead bodies, and deadly family secrets. Piper and Tucker work to uncover the past and find a demented killer as a hurricane approaches Curlew Island.
Carrie Stuart Parks has mastered the art of suspense. You’ll wonder about the killer’s identity from the first page to the last chapter—and find yourself surprised at the who and why. I love how her flawed heroine and hero work through their hang-ups and come to new understandings about God’s grace in their lives. Parks never preaches, but her message remains clear—we have a grace-filled God who pursues us.
July 24, 2020
Great Characters! Great Action!
Set on the family island in South Carolina this was an excellent story!
The story opens with Piper Boone have a nice lunch with an old friend. Then shots happen, her friend is dead and she's saved by a handsome stranger who took a bullet for her.
Tucker Landry is an unlikely hero, but his instincts kick in to protect the beautiful woman who only moments earlier caught his attention.
And the story gets better from there. I like the realness of Piper. She had lost a child saw her marriage implode and she tried to continue on by helping others. But her struggle was always there. The author did a great job of showing the turmoil that haunted Piper for many years.
Tucker had his own baggage and it was great to watch the interaction and the development of the relationship between Piper and Tucker. Not to give away too much, but we all know that's where the book will end up from the beginning. The HOW they get to the end is an extremely well writing engaging story.
The author did a great job of "hiding" the villain. I didn't see it coming, which doesn't happen often.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of Carrie Stuart Parks and to those who like action packed suspense with some romance.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher through Netgalley
Set on the family island in South Carolina this was an excellent story!
The story opens with Piper Boone have a nice lunch with an old friend. Then shots happen, her friend is dead and she's saved by a handsome stranger who took a bullet for her.
Tucker Landry is an unlikely hero, but his instincts kick in to protect the beautiful woman who only moments earlier caught his attention.
And the story gets better from there. I like the realness of Piper. She had lost a child saw her marriage implode and she tried to continue on by helping others. But her struggle was always there. The author did a great job of showing the turmoil that haunted Piper for many years.
Tucker had his own baggage and it was great to watch the interaction and the development of the relationship between Piper and Tucker. Not to give away too much, but we all know that's where the book will end up from the beginning. The HOW they get to the end is an extremely well writing engaging story.
The author did a great job of "hiding" the villain. I didn't see it coming, which doesn't happen often.
I would definitely recommend this book to fans of Carrie Stuart Parks and to those who like action packed suspense with some romance.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the publisher through Netgalley
July 15, 2020
I enjoy Carrie Stuart Parks stories. I love how she captures the artist's attention to detail. With her latest novel, Relative Silence, I loved the mystery. As a word of warning, the story does start a little slow for fans of non-stop thrills. It appears to be a family narrative, but then the suspense speeds up right along the approaching hurricane. That is when Parks captured my attention, and I stayed up way too late, trying to finish the novel. I really invested myself in the family and the characters. I couldn't wait to see justice prevail and have some peace for Piper as she deals with her family and her dead daughter. Parks did a fabulous job at keeping the villain's identity secret. Even I didn't figure out before the end. I had it pegged at a certain character, but was proven wrong. Overall, Relative Silence is an amazing tale of a family and the woes a family can create. I loved the action in the second half. I honestly can't wait for whatever else she decides to create.
I received a complimentary copy of Relative Silence by Carrie Stuart Parks through Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Relative Silence by Carrie Stuart Parks through Thomas Nelson Publishing, but the opinions stated are all my own.
September 22, 2022
Though this book grabbed me from the get-go, it REALLY started to drag me in once the hurricane started making its presence known. I had so many thoughts about whodunnit, but though I was correct about one part of the 'perp's' story, the whole nefarious plot was a wee bit of a stunner.
I appreciated the faith element, subtle as it was. Both Tucker and Piper had some baggage that they needed to give fully to God . . . but then again, don't we all?
I appreciated the faith element, subtle as it was. Both Tucker and Piper had some baggage that they needed to give fully to God . . . but then again, don't we all?
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