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Finding Ruby: A Nell Montague Mystery
On Halloween night, thirteen-year-old Ruby disappears in the company of a masked figure. She is never seen again. The only witness is Nell Montague who is just seven years old.
Twenty-three years later, Nell is trapped in an abusive relationship and still suffering from vivid nightmares of what she saw. When tragedy strikes she escapes and attempts to put her past behind her. Then, thirteen-year-old Emily disappears.
Haunted by increasingly disturbing visions and helped by a reluctant psychic, Nell must unravel the mystery of what really happened that night, because to save Emily she must first find Ruby. But to do so she will question everything she thought she knew about her own childhood and soon discovers that nightmares don’t always end when you wake up.
Twenty-three years later, Nell is trapped in an abusive relationship and still suffering from vivid nightmares of what she saw. When tragedy strikes she escapes and attempts to put her past behind her. Then, thirteen-year-old Emily disappears.
Haunted by increasingly disturbing visions and helped by a reluctant psychic, Nell must unravel the mystery of what really happened that night, because to save Emily she must first find Ruby. But to do so she will question everything she thought she knew about her own childhood and soon discovers that nightmares don’t always end when you wake up.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2019
3 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
June 17, 2022
Book & Tour Review
🌟🌟🌟.5
If you’re looking for an intense, fast-paced mystery, this is it. You’ll enjoy it even more if you like series. This is Book One of a new series and my first read by this author. This story is like an intricate and complex spider web! The plot takes many routes and the continual conglomeration is linked.
Nell has been dreaming about Ruby since childhood. Where is she? Who is she? Is she even real? She’s obsessed with answering these questions because she’s certain they will solve the disappearance of Emily.
The author is a remarkably thorough storyteller. And Nell is an incredible character.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources and SilverWood Books for this complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own!
#findingruby #jahiggins #booktour #tourhost #justfinishedreading #darkmystery #bookseries #Nell #childhoodsecrets #lovetoread #fortheloveofbooks #bookstagrammer #coloradoreader #crimeandcocktailsbookcrew #mysteryandthrills #thrillerafterthriller #bethrillingbookclub #lovebooks #compulsivereader #bookreviewer #honestreview #inexchangeforreview #rachelsrandomresources
🌟🌟🌟.5
If you’re looking for an intense, fast-paced mystery, this is it. You’ll enjoy it even more if you like series. This is Book One of a new series and my first read by this author. This story is like an intricate and complex spider web! The plot takes many routes and the continual conglomeration is linked.
Nell has been dreaming about Ruby since childhood. Where is she? Who is she? Is she even real? She’s obsessed with answering these questions because she’s certain they will solve the disappearance of Emily.
The author is a remarkably thorough storyteller. And Nell is an incredible character.
Thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources and SilverWood Books for this complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own!
#findingruby #jahiggins #booktour #tourhost #justfinishedreading #darkmystery #bookseries #Nell #childhoodsecrets #lovetoread #fortheloveofbooks #bookstagrammer #coloradoreader #crimeandcocktailsbookcrew #mysteryandthrills #thrillerafterthriller #bethrillingbookclub #lovebooks #compulsivereader #bookreviewer #honestreview #inexchangeforreview #rachelsrandomresources
October 12, 2019
I loved the blurb of the story. A missing child is one of my favorite plot arc.
It bespoke of a strong woman Nell who had gotten out of a violent relationship just to realize that she was being haunted by the spirits of a girl who was lost 23 years ago, Ruby and a girl who had been kidnapped a few days ago Emily. A medium Maxine and a good Clarissa helped her at her moments of need.
My first book by author J A Higgins, I liked the concept of the story. I had difficulty initially grasping the way it was written as the first half had physical abuse mostly and how she ran away from the abusive partner, and the second dealt with the spirits and nightmares.
I liked the shadows in the book as the author played with light and dark shades of human, showing me different aspects alternately. The characters were flawed yet found strength to take the right decidions. I liked Nell and Maxine in their own way. The spirits raised the right amount of spookiness and pathos in me.
Something seemed missing, and incidents were shown in different timelines which raised my questions. The ending saw the answers to some of them.
Overall, a good read. I wouldn't have minded more of an eerie atmospheric vibe emanating from this book, befitting the October month.
It bespoke of a strong woman Nell who had gotten out of a violent relationship just to realize that she was being haunted by the spirits of a girl who was lost 23 years ago, Ruby and a girl who had been kidnapped a few days ago Emily. A medium Maxine and a good Clarissa helped her at her moments of need.
My first book by author J A Higgins, I liked the concept of the story. I had difficulty initially grasping the way it was written as the first half had physical abuse mostly and how she ran away from the abusive partner, and the second dealt with the spirits and nightmares.
I liked the shadows in the book as the author played with light and dark shades of human, showing me different aspects alternately. The characters were flawed yet found strength to take the right decidions. I liked Nell and Maxine in their own way. The spirits raised the right amount of spookiness and pathos in me.
Something seemed missing, and incidents were shown in different timelines which raised my questions. The ending saw the answers to some of them.
Overall, a good read. I wouldn't have minded more of an eerie atmospheric vibe emanating from this book, befitting the October month.
July 27, 2022
Finding Ruby by J A Higgins is a Mystery Thriller and is worth a one time read. The book starts with an interesting plot of hidden secrets. But after a few pages it slows down and I felt that I was lost. I was not able to connect with the story, but still managed to finish it. Also, I felt that the book was way different from what I normally read. Still, I would say that it is worth a one time read. But, this is totally my opinion and you can disagree with me only after reading the book.
I could only give the book 3 stars. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
I could only give the book 3 stars. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
June 12, 2022
Talk about plots getting deeper! This one just kept giving.
This was such a well thought out story, there were mysterious connections and culprits in every corner.
I enjoyed the first half a little more than the end chapters, just because I preferred the 'not quite knowing what's going on'.
I would call this something inbetween nightmare on elm street and quantum leap! (You haveto read it to see what I mean)
Well written characters, with a reveal towards the end that got me going back to read some early pages.
Read this, but beware of the nightmares!
This was such a well thought out story, there were mysterious connections and culprits in every corner.
I enjoyed the first half a little more than the end chapters, just because I preferred the 'not quite knowing what's going on'.
I would call this something inbetween nightmare on elm street and quantum leap! (You haveto read it to see what I mean)
Well written characters, with a reveal towards the end that got me going back to read some early pages.
Read this, but beware of the nightmares!
October 17, 2019
This is a very different spooky mystery, just right for Hallowe'en as long as you don't mind reading initially about a very abusive relationship. If such things are triggers for you, avoid this story.
Eleanor, who prefers to known as Nell, keeps having nightmares and flashbacks to events from her childhood. She has recently lost her beloved Nana and is shocked to discover her inheritance - just what she needs to enable her to escape her abusive relationship before he accidentally kills her. She is initially helped by Clarissa and it only after that that she starts to realise that she's having visions of things from the past and present, making her suspect she's being haunted by a young girl who disappeared twenty three years ago. That's when Nell learns about thirteen year old Emily disappearing, her visions increase and she meets Maxine, a medium, and together they seek to discover what happened to Ruby in the past and to save Emily before it is too late.....
This is the first book I've read by this author and it really is an intriguing mystery with obvious paranormal elements. I found the descriptions of abusive behaviour hard reading but did like how Nell grows in all aspects through the story. There are plenty of flawed, original characters who, together with the mystery elements help keep you turning the pages. I suspect this is going to be the first in a new series and I look forward to reading more about the exploits of Nell, Maxine and Leon in future and to discover just what Will is going to do next!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Eleanor, who prefers to known as Nell, keeps having nightmares and flashbacks to events from her childhood. She has recently lost her beloved Nana and is shocked to discover her inheritance - just what she needs to enable her to escape her abusive relationship before he accidentally kills her. She is initially helped by Clarissa and it only after that that she starts to realise that she's having visions of things from the past and present, making her suspect she's being haunted by a young girl who disappeared twenty three years ago. That's when Nell learns about thirteen year old Emily disappearing, her visions increase and she meets Maxine, a medium, and together they seek to discover what happened to Ruby in the past and to save Emily before it is too late.....
This is the first book I've read by this author and it really is an intriguing mystery with obvious paranormal elements. I found the descriptions of abusive behaviour hard reading but did like how Nell grows in all aspects through the story. There are plenty of flawed, original characters who, together with the mystery elements help keep you turning the pages. I suspect this is going to be the first in a new series and I look forward to reading more about the exploits of Nell, Maxine and Leon in future and to discover just what Will is going to do next!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
June 14, 2022
First, I want to thank JA Higgins, Silverwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Ohh so many emotions brought up in JA Higgins Finding Ruby!! She literally had a little bit of everything jam packed into this book for every reader's taste. JA captured your interest from the prologue and didn’t let it go til the ending.
One thing I loved that JA Higgins said is that this book is evidence that dreams really do come true if you are prepared to work hard, find a professional team to support you, and are brave enough to take a leap of faith. Never give up!
JA Higgins addresses some very important issues in Finding Ruby. However, some of these issues may triggers. Please read at your own risk.
This book was deep, intense, mysterious, suspenseful, emotional, fast paced, etc.
Boy oh Boy JA Higgins put her character Nell through the ringer in this book! So many times I wanted to jump into the book and hug her or rescue her. She proved time and time again that she’s a very strong woman.
The more I got to know Gary’s character the more I despised that man!! Ohh he totally got under my skin to the point where I was yelling at my kindle. He had some major issues that he needed to work out.
Ohh so many emotions brought up in JA Higgins Finding Ruby!! She literally had a little bit of everything jam packed into this book for every reader's taste. JA captured your interest from the prologue and didn’t let it go til the ending.
One thing I loved that JA Higgins said is that this book is evidence that dreams really do come true if you are prepared to work hard, find a professional team to support you, and are brave enough to take a leap of faith. Never give up!
JA Higgins addresses some very important issues in Finding Ruby. However, some of these issues may triggers. Please read at your own risk.
This book was deep, intense, mysterious, suspenseful, emotional, fast paced, etc.
Boy oh Boy JA Higgins put her character Nell through the ringer in this book! So many times I wanted to jump into the book and hug her or rescue her. She proved time and time again that she’s a very strong woman.
The more I got to know Gary’s character the more I despised that man!! Ohh he totally got under my skin to the point where I was yelling at my kindle. He had some major issues that he needed to work out.
June 16, 2022
3.5☆ rounded to 4
Finding Ruby by J.A. Higgins isn’t my first read from this author, so I was excited to read another book by her.
The abusive relationship in the beginning of this book can be a bit triggering. However, the author handled it well, and I think it was an unfortunately realistic portrayal of something very real.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect of this novel. There was an overall tone of shrouded mystery, which made this very compelling to read. The paranormal aspects added a bit more intrigue as well.
Nell is a great character. What she goes through is hard to read but I really enjoyed her growth throughout the novel.
Overall, this was a good read. A well thought out mystery, with intriguing paranormal elements and deep characters. I’d recommend giving it a shot!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy and tour invite. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
Finding Ruby by J.A. Higgins isn’t my first read from this author, so I was excited to read another book by her.
The abusive relationship in the beginning of this book can be a bit triggering. However, the author handled it well, and I think it was an unfortunately realistic portrayal of something very real.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect of this novel. There was an overall tone of shrouded mystery, which made this very compelling to read. The paranormal aspects added a bit more intrigue as well.
Nell is a great character. What she goes through is hard to read but I really enjoyed her growth throughout the novel.
Overall, this was a good read. A well thought out mystery, with intriguing paranormal elements and deep characters. I’d recommend giving it a shot!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the free review copy and tour invite. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
May 28, 2023
I enjoyed the narration of Philip Rose, who bring out the suspense and mystery.
Eleanor, likes to be known Nell. Has just lost her Nana, disparate to leave an abusive relationship. She is also having nightmares and flashbacks to events from her childhood. She is complete shocked to discover that her Nana has left her a inheritance . Meaning she can escape . She is initially helped by Clarissa , soon she realises that her visions are of things from the past and present. Is she being making her believe that she is being haunted by a young girl Ruby who disappeared twenty three years ago. Meeting Maxine, a medium, who helps her discover what happened to Ruby in the past and to save Emily before it is too late....
Eleanor, likes to be known Nell. Has just lost her Nana, disparate to leave an abusive relationship. She is also having nightmares and flashbacks to events from her childhood. She is complete shocked to discover that her Nana has left her a inheritance . Meaning she can escape . She is initially helped by Clarissa , soon she realises that her visions are of things from the past and present. Is she being making her believe that she is being haunted by a young girl Ruby who disappeared twenty three years ago. Meeting Maxine, a medium, who helps her discover what happened to Ruby in the past and to save Emily before it is too late....
May 29, 2022
Brilliant character depth, the twists and turns only add to this intriguing and atmospheric read.
I particularly liked the mix of temporal and spiritual mystery and how tragedies from the past evolve through the present. The timeline is detailed and well structured, characters are slowly exposed throughout the book and their true nature and intentions make this a book well worth reading.
I particularly liked the mix of temporal and spiritual mystery and how tragedies from the past evolve through the present. The timeline is detailed and well structured, characters are slowly exposed throughout the book and their true nature and intentions make this a book well worth reading.
October 18, 2019
If there’s one thing that this Ginger Book Geek likes it’s discovering new authors. J. A. Higgins is a new author for me but I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future. I really did enjoy reading ‘Finding Ruby’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me a little while to warm to Nell Montague but warm to her I did and by the time I got to the end of the book, I had started to consider her as being a friend. As a child aged 7 Nell had the traumatic experience of being the sole witness to the disappearance of Ruby, who was aged 12. Ruby was never seen again. Nell has had to live with what happened since then and she relives the moment over and over again. The story moves on in time and we meet Nell again when she is aged 30 and trapped in an abusive relationship. Nell has recurrent nightmares about what happened. Something happens which gives Nell the chance to escape the relationship. Shockingly another child goes missing in similar circumstances to Ruby and whilst it brings back unpleasant memories for Ruby, she resolves to do what she can to investigate this latest girl’s disappearance but to do that she needs to go back to her own childhood to investigate the disappearance of Ruby. Will Nell discover what happened to Ruby? What has happened to Emily, who is the latest girl to go missing? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this story, but that has more to do with the fact that I started to read the book when I was tired and when I am tired my memory isn’t that good so I had to keep flicking back over to remind myself who was who and what was what. Once I got into this story then that was it, I was away. I kept frantically turning those pages trying to discover the truth of what happened to Ruby and seeing whether or not Nell would be able to save Emily. The pages turned increasingly quickly as my desperation to find out what happened steadily grew and grew. I reached the end of the story far quicker than I had intended to. I was enjoying the storylines, the characters and the author’s writing style so much that I wanted the book to continue for longer than it did.
‘Finding Ruby’ is well written. The author has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. I felt drawn into the story fairly early on and once the author had my attention that was it, I knew that the author would refuse to let me reclaim my attention until the end of the story. The author uses such vivid and powerful descriptions that I felt as though I was part of the story myself. I found that I was so in tune with Nell to the extent that I felt myself going through every emotion that she did.
Reading ‘Finding Ruby’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could catch your breath and gather your thoughts, then off the action would go again.
In short, ‘Finding Ruby’ was definitely an interesting read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
It took me a little while to warm to Nell Montague but warm to her I did and by the time I got to the end of the book, I had started to consider her as being a friend. As a child aged 7 Nell had the traumatic experience of being the sole witness to the disappearance of Ruby, who was aged 12. Ruby was never seen again. Nell has had to live with what happened since then and she relives the moment over and over again. The story moves on in time and we meet Nell again when she is aged 30 and trapped in an abusive relationship. Nell has recurrent nightmares about what happened. Something happens which gives Nell the chance to escape the relationship. Shockingly another child goes missing in similar circumstances to Ruby and whilst it brings back unpleasant memories for Ruby, she resolves to do what she can to investigate this latest girl’s disappearance but to do that she needs to go back to her own childhood to investigate the disappearance of Ruby. Will Nell discover what happened to Ruby? What has happened to Emily, who is the latest girl to go missing? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out as I am not going to tell you.
I must be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into this story, but that has more to do with the fact that I started to read the book when I was tired and when I am tired my memory isn’t that good so I had to keep flicking back over to remind myself who was who and what was what. Once I got into this story then that was it, I was away. I kept frantically turning those pages trying to discover the truth of what happened to Ruby and seeing whether or not Nell would be able to save Emily. The pages turned increasingly quickly as my desperation to find out what happened steadily grew and grew. I reached the end of the story far quicker than I had intended to. I was enjoying the storylines, the characters and the author’s writing style so much that I wanted the book to continue for longer than it did.
‘Finding Ruby’ is well written. The author has a writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. I felt drawn into the story fairly early on and once the author had my attention that was it, I knew that the author would refuse to let me reclaim my attention until the end of the story. The author uses such vivid and powerful descriptions that I felt as though I was part of the story myself. I found that I was so in tune with Nell to the extent that I felt myself going through every emotion that she did.
Reading ‘Finding Ruby’ felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could catch your breath and gather your thoughts, then off the action would go again.
In short, ‘Finding Ruby’ was definitely an interesting read, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
June 15, 2022
The protagonist in this story, Nell, sees a crime at an early age, about the disappearance of Ruby. Fast forward 23 years and Nell’s life is suffering. Stuck in an abusive relationship, she eventually has the strength and courage to leave the cruel and twisted Gary. After the death of her grandmother, she inherits a sum of money, resulting in her being able to support herself. However, the crime from the past comes back to haunt her, and the reader is taken back and forth between the two The protagonist in this story, Nell, sees a crime at an early age, about the disappearance of Ruby. Fast forward 23 years and Nell’s life is suffering. Stuck in an abusive relationship, she eventually has the strength and courage to leave the cruel and twisted Gary. After the death of her grandmother, she inherits a sum of money, resulting in her being able to support herself. However, the crime from the past comes back to haunt her, and the reader is taken back and forth between the two timelines.
I thoroughly enjoyed the darkness and depth of this read. The tense and dramatic atmosphere is written well, resulting in an interesting, different yet exciting storyline. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged start-to-finish.
I particularly liked how it concluded. It wraps most things up for the reader, and although I was still left with a couple of questions, this didn’t dampen my satisfaction.
This book will appeal to many readers, and with just over 200 pages, will make a great quick read. I am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
Finding Ruby is available to buy now!
(Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resource and Silverwood Books for a gifted copy of this book, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.)
I thoroughly enjoyed the darkness and depth of this read. The tense and dramatic atmosphere is written well, resulting in an interesting, different yet exciting storyline. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged start-to-finish.
I particularly liked how it concluded. It wraps most things up for the reader, and although I was still left with a couple of questions, this didn’t dampen my satisfaction.
This book will appeal to many readers, and with just over 200 pages, will make a great quick read. I am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
Finding Ruby is available to buy now!
(Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resource and Silverwood Books for a gifted copy of this book, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. All opinions are my own.)
June 15, 2022
This is a top notch creepy mystery with paranormal elements. Our main character is Eleanor, who prefers to be known as Nell, she is continuously having nightmares, visions and flashbacks regarding events from her childhood. When Nell was seven years old she was witness to the kidnapping of thirteen year old Ruby. Her nightmares, visions and flashbacks leave her scared, anxious and confused.
We then learn that she has recently lost her Nana and is shocked to discover her inheritance - which consists of twenty five thousand pounds, an apartment in Devon plus another house her Nana has advised that she sell. Nell, cannot believe her luck, she knew nothing of any of this and she soon comes to realise that this windfall is a very special gift from beyond the grave, it is exactly what she needs to escape the abusive relationship she is currently in.
Nell soon learns about thirteen year old Emily’s disappearance and from this point her flashbacks, visions and nightmares get worse making her realise that she must be the key to solving this missing persons mystery, but could what she witnessed as a child be connected to this? Is the strange young girl in her visions the missing girl from her childhood asking for help?
There is so much more I want to tell you about this book but I don’t want to give away the whole story! We have a good mix of engaging, relatable and well written characters here plus the paranormal element is what makes this plot so different and interesting.
I loved every minute of this story!
5 stars from me!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a review copy of this book for free. Views and opinions are my own and have not been influenced by anyone.
We then learn that she has recently lost her Nana and is shocked to discover her inheritance - which consists of twenty five thousand pounds, an apartment in Devon plus another house her Nana has advised that she sell. Nell, cannot believe her luck, she knew nothing of any of this and she soon comes to realise that this windfall is a very special gift from beyond the grave, it is exactly what she needs to escape the abusive relationship she is currently in.
Nell soon learns about thirteen year old Emily’s disappearance and from this point her flashbacks, visions and nightmares get worse making her realise that she must be the key to solving this missing persons mystery, but could what she witnessed as a child be connected to this? Is the strange young girl in her visions the missing girl from her childhood asking for help?
There is so much more I want to tell you about this book but I don’t want to give away the whole story! We have a good mix of engaging, relatable and well written characters here plus the paranormal element is what makes this plot so different and interesting.
I loved every minute of this story!
5 stars from me!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a review copy of this book for free. Views and opinions are my own and have not been influenced by anyone.
October 29, 2019
3.5☆ An Intriguing Twisty Mystery
Finding Ruby is a Mystery that has many twists.
Nell is In an abusive relationship with Gary.
After losing her Grandmother and receiving news that she has inherited twenty five thousand pounds and her property. A huge amount that will help her start over.
She finally finds the inner strength to leave him.
Nell becomes embroiled in a kidnap case after she starts to make deep rooted connections to her past. Seeking the help of a medium, can Nell find the connection she is desperate to find in order to solve her mystery. As she deserves peace and closure
I struggled to connect with the characters in the beginning, but I understand this was due to the nature of the story and how much heartache and abuse Nell has been through.
I enjoyed reading Finding Ruby, i love thrillers and mystery books but this one was very different to anything I have read before.
There is a slight paranormal feel to it which did add a unique twist.
It took me a while to get into the story and work out what was going on.
It's a slower build, however I do prefer my reads to be a bit more pacy.
I did enjoy the clever twists along the way.
There are some sensitive subjects that some readers may find hard to read.
Overall Finding Ruby is an intriguing and at times dark read that I would recommend.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/1...
Finding Ruby is a Mystery that has many twists.
Nell is In an abusive relationship with Gary.
After losing her Grandmother and receiving news that she has inherited twenty five thousand pounds and her property. A huge amount that will help her start over.
She finally finds the inner strength to leave him.
Nell becomes embroiled in a kidnap case after she starts to make deep rooted connections to her past. Seeking the help of a medium, can Nell find the connection she is desperate to find in order to solve her mystery. As she deserves peace and closure
I struggled to connect with the characters in the beginning, but I understand this was due to the nature of the story and how much heartache and abuse Nell has been through.
I enjoyed reading Finding Ruby, i love thrillers and mystery books but this one was very different to anything I have read before.
There is a slight paranormal feel to it which did add a unique twist.
It took me a while to get into the story and work out what was going on.
It's a slower build, however I do prefer my reads to be a bit more pacy.
I did enjoy the clever twists along the way.
There are some sensitive subjects that some readers may find hard to read.
Overall Finding Ruby is an intriguing and at times dark read that I would recommend.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/1...
September 4, 2022
Fabulous Mystery! Very well done!
By: J.A. Higgins
Narrated by: Philip Rose
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 09-04-22
Nell Montague has nightmares. Vivid disturbing nightmares about a young girl named Ruby. But are they really just nightmares or are they visions? Nell needs to find out and fast because now, twenty three years later, she is “seeing” another missing girl and there just might be a connection! Finding Ruby is a fast paced, engrossing mystery thriller that grabbed me from the opening lines and held my attention until the end of the jaw dropping epilogue! Leaving no loose ends, and nothing unexplained, I throughly enjoyed the ride! The characters are diverse, varied, very well developed and span the full spectrum of likability adding interest and a very realistic feel to the story. The narration was very well done and made listening a pleasure. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and love how it all came together in the end and that epilogue? WOW! I did not see that coming. Brilliant. Five fabulous stars! I loved it!
By: J.A. Higgins
Narrated by: Philip Rose
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 09-04-22
Nell Montague has nightmares. Vivid disturbing nightmares about a young girl named Ruby. But are they really just nightmares or are they visions? Nell needs to find out and fast because now, twenty three years later, she is “seeing” another missing girl and there just might be a connection! Finding Ruby is a fast paced, engrossing mystery thriller that grabbed me from the opening lines and held my attention until the end of the jaw dropping epilogue! Leaving no loose ends, and nothing unexplained, I throughly enjoyed the ride! The characters are diverse, varied, very well developed and span the full spectrum of likability adding interest and a very realistic feel to the story. The narration was very well done and made listening a pleasure. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and love how it all came together in the end and that epilogue? WOW! I did not see that coming. Brilliant. Five fabulous stars! I loved it!
May 12, 2023
This debut story from J.A. Higgins is a "2021 Page Turner Award Winner" and I can see why.
If you love a good mystery/thriller, then this well crafted and brilliantly plotted story is for you.
It is an intense, emotional and fast paced read that gripped me from the prologue.
The narrative of the main characters of Nell, Maxine and Celeste, who are all really strong and relatable female characters. J.A. Higgins has clearly done her research into domestic abuse, sexual assault and kidnapping. And although it's a really emotive and at times tough read. The subjects seamlessly fitted in to the storyline. Adding depth and believability.
I loved the paranormal aspect of the story and have to admit that it definitely had me switching on lights before entering the room and avoiding mirrors.
I can't wait to read more of Nell's adventures, with another book due out later this year.
J.A. is definitely a one to watch.
If you love a good mystery/thriller, then this well crafted and brilliantly plotted story is for you.
It is an intense, emotional and fast paced read that gripped me from the prologue.
The narrative of the main characters of Nell, Maxine and Celeste, who are all really strong and relatable female characters. J.A. Higgins has clearly done her research into domestic abuse, sexual assault and kidnapping. And although it's a really emotive and at times tough read. The subjects seamlessly fitted in to the storyline. Adding depth and believability.
I loved the paranormal aspect of the story and have to admit that it definitely had me switching on lights before entering the room and avoiding mirrors.
I can't wait to read more of Nell's adventures, with another book due out later this year.
J.A. is definitely a one to watch.
October 14, 2019
I loved the blurb it grabbed me immediately as did the great cover design.
I have to say from the outset I was fully invested in the story and where it would lead. This book a book of two halves of two stories that are intertwined and relate to each other and parallel the main character and her personality. We are taken an emotional, dark and frightened journey that see’s a shift in power. Nell grows a lot through this story and her potential is evident. I really like her. Somethings are explained a little vaguely and jumpy but the chapters are easily passed and enjoyable. The story reaches a satisfactory conclusion and a lot of questions are answered. I hope there will be more books. A slow burning dark mystery that I really liked.
I have to say from the outset I was fully invested in the story and where it would lead. This book a book of two halves of two stories that are intertwined and relate to each other and parallel the main character and her personality. We are taken an emotional, dark and frightened journey that see’s a shift in power. Nell grows a lot through this story and her potential is evident. I really like her. Somethings are explained a little vaguely and jumpy but the chapters are easily passed and enjoyable. The story reaches a satisfactory conclusion and a lot of questions are answered. I hope there will be more books. A slow burning dark mystery that I really liked.
May 1, 2020
This book was unlike anything I’ve ever read before. I though the characters were great. Nell, Gary and Maxine, in particular, were very believable and well written.
I love the plot and the whole concept of the novel and I’m excited to see where the series goes - I’ll definitely pick up the next one.
My only criticism is that I felt the ending was a little rushed. The build up was so good I was just a little disappointed when it ended so quickly. I would have liked more detail (backstory on Austin) - I loved Aaron’s sinister moments and exploring them more would have be great too.
Highly recommended. Fast paced and engaging throughout. Fans of The Shining and Girl on the Train would enjoy this book - in my opinion.
I love the plot and the whole concept of the novel and I’m excited to see where the series goes - I’ll definitely pick up the next one.
My only criticism is that I felt the ending was a little rushed. The build up was so good I was just a little disappointed when it ended so quickly. I would have liked more detail (backstory on Austin) - I loved Aaron’s sinister moments and exploring them more would have be great too.
Highly recommended. Fast paced and engaging throughout. Fans of The Shining and Girl on the Train would enjoy this book - in my opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2019
Finding Ruby is a fantastic thriller/mystery which jumps between an unsolved missing person’s case 23 years ago and the present day where another young girl looks set to suffer the same fate.
Seven year old Nell was the only witness the last time Ruby was seen; 30 year old Nell is now desperately trying to escape an abusive relationship, but a new missing child case and its correlation with the past means she can’t move on until the mystery of what happened to Ruby is resolved once and for all.
For my full review, visit https://theoverduebookreview.wordpres...
Seven year old Nell was the only witness the last time Ruby was seen; 30 year old Nell is now desperately trying to escape an abusive relationship, but a new missing child case and its correlation with the past means she can’t move on until the mystery of what happened to Ruby is resolved once and for all.
For my full review, visit https://theoverduebookreview.wordpres...
June 15, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this novel. It is quite a dark thriller/mystery.
I liked Nell, she was going though a rough time. I really liked how she seemed to find herself as the book went on.
There are some twists and turns along the way along with a paranormal aspect too which I really liked.
This was my first novel by J.A Higgins, I’ll definitely read more from this author in the future.
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources and the author for having me on the tour and for my gifted copy of the book.
I liked Nell, she was going though a rough time. I really liked how she seemed to find herself as the book went on.
There are some twists and turns along the way along with a paranormal aspect too which I really liked.
This was my first novel by J.A Higgins, I’ll definitely read more from this author in the future.
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources and the author for having me on the tour and for my gifted copy of the book.
June 16, 2022
The blurb for Finding Ruby had me hooked and I just knew that I needed to read it. J.A. Higgins is a new to me author and I look forward to reading more from this author.
I really enjoyed the variety of characters that were introduced throughout the story and i found them all to be very intriguing.
My heart absolutely broke for Nell and I loved watching her find the strength to change what was happening. There were some interesting twists revealed throughout the story and I would definitely love to see these characters again.
I really enjoyed the variety of characters that were introduced throughout the story and i found them all to be very intriguing.
My heart absolutely broke for Nell and I loved watching her find the strength to change what was happening. There were some interesting twists revealed throughout the story and I would definitely love to see these characters again.
June 16, 2022
I would like to thank the author and Rachel's Random Resources for allowing me to be part of the tour.
JA Higgins is a new author for me but glad I did sign up. Although It took a while for me to get into the book, I am glad that I continued reading.
Although a slow start, Finding Ruby, has some very good twists and turns throughout the book. The storyline has some very sensitive reading which was hard to read, but all in all, I will be looking out for more books by JA Higgins.
JA Higgins is a new author for me but glad I did sign up. Although It took a while for me to get into the book, I am glad that I continued reading.
Although a slow start, Finding Ruby, has some very good twists and turns throughout the book. The storyline has some very sensitive reading which was hard to read, but all in all, I will be looking out for more books by JA Higgins.
October 6, 2022
audible:This was a really good book. Nell has problems,she has a crap boyfriend and her grandmother just died. She has bad dreams about a girl she thinks was made up by her dad.Nothing she knows is true. Phillip Rose was a terrific narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 18, 2022
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book when I backed the Kickstarter campaign for its sequel, but this was a very engaging and fascinating mystery thriller by the end! Very solid, and while sometimes the pacing threw me off a little, I deeply enjoyed reading through this one! Can't wait to read the second, and I highly recommend it!
January 4, 2022
I enjoyed this story a lot. I liked how the different characters all linked up and I liked the settings. It kept me guessing and I’d like to read another by the author
June 15, 2022
A story full of twists and turns that is unsettling and gut-wrenching throughout. Not your typical mystery, Finding Ruby has a supernatural element which makes it more unique.
January 8, 2024
TRIGGER WARNING: domestic violence
Nell is griefstricken after her grandmother's death and faces issues in her personal life which get in the way of her work. She is suffering from vivid nightmares and believes they are linked to the disappearance of Ruby decades ago. Then a girl is snatched in the present day and Nell could hold the answers to finding her...
Finding Ruby is a mystery with paranormal elements.
The first part of the book introduces us to Nell as she adapts to life without her grandmother who is her only family. She is in an abusive relationship but her inheritance gives her the chance to escape. The domestic abuse is hinted at and then shown through a violent episode which leads to her hospitalisation.
Nell has some very disturbing dreams and we begin to piece together clues about her past and Ruby. Meanwhile we also see a young girl Emily being kidnapped. Both of these elements raise the tension and anticipation as we await further details. Later the paranormal side to the plot develops as Nell tries to understand her past and find Ruby and therefore Emily.
The style of writing was easy to read and the mystery was sustained with some good twists. I really liked Nell's character and wanted her to find happiness. There are plenty of emotion and I felt that they were realistically portrayed.
Finding Ruby is an intriguing mystery and I believe it is the first in a new series so will look out for more books about Nell.
Nell is griefstricken after her grandmother's death and faces issues in her personal life which get in the way of her work. She is suffering from vivid nightmares and believes they are linked to the disappearance of Ruby decades ago. Then a girl is snatched in the present day and Nell could hold the answers to finding her...
Finding Ruby is a mystery with paranormal elements.
The first part of the book introduces us to Nell as she adapts to life without her grandmother who is her only family. She is in an abusive relationship but her inheritance gives her the chance to escape. The domestic abuse is hinted at and then shown through a violent episode which leads to her hospitalisation.
Nell has some very disturbing dreams and we begin to piece together clues about her past and Ruby. Meanwhile we also see a young girl Emily being kidnapped. Both of these elements raise the tension and anticipation as we await further details. Later the paranormal side to the plot develops as Nell tries to understand her past and find Ruby and therefore Emily.
The style of writing was easy to read and the mystery was sustained with some good twists. I really liked Nell's character and wanted her to find happiness. There are plenty of emotion and I felt that they were realistically portrayed.
Finding Ruby is an intriguing mystery and I believe it is the first in a new series so will look out for more books about Nell.
September 8, 2023
A thriller with a paranormal twist that will leave you with goosebumps!
Nell hasn’t had the easiest of lives. Her mother passed away when she was a child, her father disappeared and hasn’t been heard from for years and her soul guardian, her grandmother has now also passed away leaving her alone in the world, all except an abusive boyfriend.
She has also always suffered from nightmares, ones so real some of them follow her into the waking world. From her childhood the one recurring dream is about a young girl with red hair and pink Dr Martens.
What Nell doesn’t realise until she is much older is that Ruby isn’t just a made up nightmare, she is a real girl that went missing years before.
After the death of her grandmother and finding out she has been left some money and a flat she had no idea even existed, her boyfriend takes his abuse to another level putting Nell in hospital. Now, thanks to her grandmother she finally gets the bravery and courage to finally leave him for good and makes a break for the unknown flat knowing she won’t be found there.
In her new hometown Nell has a chance encounter with a psychic Maxine and together they decide to try and find Ruby who is clearly seeking help.
This is a murder mystery that the pair have unwittingly walked into, but one with a psychic twist.
If you love a good mystery with a twist then this is a must read, it is a really easy, quick book to read as the writing flows across the pages keeping you fully invested until the end.
With Halloween just around the corner, now is the perfect time to read this book!
I enjoyed it so much I read the second book A Long Time Burning straight after this one.
Nell hasn’t had the easiest of lives. Her mother passed away when she was a child, her father disappeared and hasn’t been heard from for years and her soul guardian, her grandmother has now also passed away leaving her alone in the world, all except an abusive boyfriend.
She has also always suffered from nightmares, ones so real some of them follow her into the waking world. From her childhood the one recurring dream is about a young girl with red hair and pink Dr Martens.
What Nell doesn’t realise until she is much older is that Ruby isn’t just a made up nightmare, she is a real girl that went missing years before.
After the death of her grandmother and finding out she has been left some money and a flat she had no idea even existed, her boyfriend takes his abuse to another level putting Nell in hospital. Now, thanks to her grandmother she finally gets the bravery and courage to finally leave him for good and makes a break for the unknown flat knowing she won’t be found there.
In her new hometown Nell has a chance encounter with a psychic Maxine and together they decide to try and find Ruby who is clearly seeking help.
This is a murder mystery that the pair have unwittingly walked into, but one with a psychic twist.
If you love a good mystery with a twist then this is a must read, it is a really easy, quick book to read as the writing flows across the pages keeping you fully invested until the end.
With Halloween just around the corner, now is the perfect time to read this book!
I enjoyed it so much I read the second book A Long Time Burning straight after this one.
November 9, 2019
Eleanor “Nell” Montague is a young woman who is having a rough week. That’s on top of her rough childhood and a relationship that is not what she hoped it would be. She is being haunted, followed, and harassed. Can’t she catch a break and just live a normal life?
This story is full of suspense, twists and turns, terror, and tragedy. It was a very good read and the characters are colorful, dangerous, and interesting. This story drew my attention in and held it for the entire read. I enjoyed this story, but it left me with some questions. This was my first story by J A Higgins and really enjoyed the writing and the story. It left me wanting more. I give this story a 4.5-star review and suggest it to readers who like suspense, twists and turns, and some paranormal activity.
This story is full of suspense, twists and turns, terror, and tragedy. It was a very good read and the characters are colorful, dangerous, and interesting. This story drew my attention in and held it for the entire read. I enjoyed this story, but it left me with some questions. This was my first story by J A Higgins and really enjoyed the writing and the story. It left me wanting more. I give this story a 4.5-star review and suggest it to readers who like suspense, twists and turns, and some paranormal activity.
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