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She Had to Kill Him
"There are two ways to get away with mass murder. The first, an expensive lawyer. The second, suicide. Robert Derby used the first one. I’m using the second."
Mara was celebrating her 21st birthday when her family was killed by a drunk driver. Two years later, Mara wants justice. She wants the drunk driver to understand how it feels to lose everything. She has a plan and a gun and she knows how to use it. But is she capable of murder?
Garrett can’t help the family he was born into. His name puts a target on his back. Maybe that’s why he always dates women who need help. But can helping the wrong person lead to disaster?
She Had to Kill Him is a gripping story about the things people do for their loved ones. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Colleen Hoover, and Paula Hawkins.
Mara was celebrating her 21st birthday when her family was killed by a drunk driver. Two years later, Mara wants justice. She wants the drunk driver to understand how it feels to lose everything. She has a plan and a gun and she knows how to use it. But is she capable of murder?
Garrett can’t help the family he was born into. His name puts a target on his back. Maybe that’s why he always dates women who need help. But can helping the wrong person lead to disaster?
She Had to Kill Him is a gripping story about the things people do for their loved ones. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Colleen Hoover, and Paula Hawkins.
337 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2020
270 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 15, 2020
"There are two ways to get away with mass murder. The first, an expensive lawyer. The second, suicide. Robert Derby used the first one. I'm using the second." (what a fantastic first line). The first line of the story will always set the tone of the book and this was no exception- it promised a gripping story that you would not be able to put down!
Mara lost her parents and her sister to a drunk driver on her twenty-first birthday. The drunk driver is a wealthy businessman and who is well-respected in the community. When he gets off with just a fine, Mara is lost. Determined to make him feel the loss that she's felt for the last two years. she is ready for payback. She has a plan, she has a gun, and she has an opportunity. Just as she's about to go through with it a handsome stranger comes along and changes everything...
This book is the third book I have read of the authors and her writing impresses me each time more and more. It is different than her other books, genre-wise and I think it is my favorites so far. There are more twists and surprises in this story then I had guessed! The writing is seamless and flows so naturally. It is easy to get lost in this book and not surface until the end.
Mara is a wonderfully flawed character, she makes you want to reach out and hug her- she seems so realistic. All the characters in fact are realistic and you find yourself caught up in their lives and hoping that they will be able to resolve their issues in a way that won't break your heart. Of course, there is a character or two that you will always dislike and they play the part great as well.
I could not see any faults in this book and would definitely recommend it to all fans of suspense, physiological thrillers, and whodunnits. Very good read!
Mara lost her parents and her sister to a drunk driver on her twenty-first birthday. The drunk driver is a wealthy businessman and who is well-respected in the community. When he gets off with just a fine, Mara is lost. Determined to make him feel the loss that she's felt for the last two years. she is ready for payback. She has a plan, she has a gun, and she has an opportunity. Just as she's about to go through with it a handsome stranger comes along and changes everything...
This book is the third book I have read of the authors and her writing impresses me each time more and more. It is different than her other books, genre-wise and I think it is my favorites so far. There are more twists and surprises in this story then I had guessed! The writing is seamless and flows so naturally. It is easy to get lost in this book and not surface until the end.
Mara is a wonderfully flawed character, she makes you want to reach out and hug her- she seems so realistic. All the characters in fact are realistic and you find yourself caught up in their lives and hoping that they will be able to resolve their issues in a way that won't break your heart. Of course, there is a character or two that you will always dislike and they play the part great as well.
I could not see any faults in this book and would definitely recommend it to all fans of suspense, physiological thrillers, and whodunnits. Very good read!
June 21, 2020
What I Loved:
This is the third book I have read written by Aviva Gat. I have enjoyed each one, and I think her writing just continues to impress me! I loved the premise of this story. It was intriguing and different and put me in a place to ask myself what I would do in this situation. It was outstanding!
How I Felt:
The plot starts off with a bang…almost… Mara is ready for revenge as she attends a charity event with her gun hidden as she waits for the right moment to take her shot. She is interrupted and side-tracked by the handsome man that whisks her away. After a few dates, Mara finds out that he is the son of the man that murdered her parents and sister in a drunk driving car accident.
This was such a good story. I felt completely swept into the book by Aviva Gat’s writing. The characters were so intriguing and held so much emotion. The writing did an excellent job conveying their thoughts and feelings.
The narration was done from multiple perspectives, and I really enjoyed that. It made the story feel so real. I knew Mara’s side of the story, but I was able to understand multiple characters’ versions of events. I loved that the author chose to write the story this way!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book from Aviva Gat! I loved the idea behind the story, the predicament each character was in, and the twists and turns of the plot!
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend She Had To Kill Him for readers that enjoy an emotional story with a dilemma that leaves you unable to put the book down!
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
This is the third book I have read written by Aviva Gat. I have enjoyed each one, and I think her writing just continues to impress me! I loved the premise of this story. It was intriguing and different and put me in a place to ask myself what I would do in this situation. It was outstanding!
How I Felt:
The plot starts off with a bang…almost… Mara is ready for revenge as she attends a charity event with her gun hidden as she waits for the right moment to take her shot. She is interrupted and side-tracked by the handsome man that whisks her away. After a few dates, Mara finds out that he is the son of the man that murdered her parents and sister in a drunk driving car accident.
This was such a good story. I felt completely swept into the book by Aviva Gat’s writing. The characters were so intriguing and held so much emotion. The writing did an excellent job conveying their thoughts and feelings.
The narration was done from multiple perspectives, and I really enjoyed that. It made the story feel so real. I knew Mara’s side of the story, but I was able to understand multiple characters’ versions of events. I loved that the author chose to write the story this way!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book from Aviva Gat! I loved the idea behind the story, the predicament each character was in, and the twists and turns of the plot!
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend She Had To Kill Him for readers that enjoy an emotional story with a dilemma that leaves you unable to put the book down!
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 28, 2021
Psychological thriller with a touch of romance. Mara Sanders has lost everything she loves. Her parents and her only sister who was everything to her. Her family were victims of a drunk driver who gets off with a slap on the wrist. No jail time, and a $1000 fine. Yes, my mouth was open on that one too. So Mara decides to take matters into her own hands. Why not take matters into your own hands and kill the culprit and then take your own life too. That’s the plan until she meets Garrett. She soon falls head over heels for Garrett and he does for her too, and the plans change slightly.
This was a slightly slow spark (not burn) for me. The first 150 pages or so were slow, but then I got to a point and had to find out how this ends. I was surprised at the end and it was not what I was expecting to happen at all. I wished there were a bit more psycho thriller action going on. I feel like everyone in this one was a little touched and needed some hard therapy from the beginning! I found myself smacking my lips at our 2 crazy love birds. 🤣 Even though this was slow in the beginning for me, I did enjoy reading the crazy that was going on in it!
Thank you to @IndieSpines for another book club read!
This was a slightly slow spark (not burn) for me. The first 150 pages or so were slow, but then I got to a point and had to find out how this ends. I was surprised at the end and it was not what I was expecting to happen at all. I wished there were a bit more psycho thriller action going on. I feel like everyone in this one was a little touched and needed some hard therapy from the beginning! I found myself smacking my lips at our 2 crazy love birds. 🤣 Even though this was slow in the beginning for me, I did enjoy reading the crazy that was going on in it!
Thank you to @IndieSpines for another book club read!
February 7, 2023
This was a quick read. Great story. The transitions between POVs and timelines were a little messy and could be confusing. I usually have an issue with first person POV as I find them limiting, and it is an issue I found here. The writing was OK. The pacing was done well and kept the story moving along. I did enjoy the twist (but I predicted it) and the ending.
***SPOILER***
The presence of a character was introduced late in the book. It might have been more suspenseful and less obvious if this info was sprinkled throughout the chapters earlier on.
This is the second book in a row I've read with a pretentious mother controlling a wedding. Lol.
***SPOILER***
The presence of a character was introduced late in the book. It might have been more suspenseful and less obvious if this info was sprinkled throughout the chapters earlier on.
This is the second book in a row I've read with a pretentious mother controlling a wedding. Lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2021
Where to begin? The storyline is quite fantastic and the ending very “neat” a little too neat. I don’t want to share any spoilers but that’s difficult to do. Do you think you could accept the son of the man that killed your family? Granted it wasn’t intentionally but even the judge admitted that he was beyond lucky with his sentence, no jail time or probation.
Robert Darby is rich, Mara is now all alone. A lawyer convinced Mara to pursue a civil case and even in this, Robert gets off easy. The only consequence is that he know realizes that he shouldn’t take his family for granted.
Mara plans to take away Robert’s family from him and then take her own life. She has no one left and no reason to keep going. However, Garrett enters her life right on time and suddenly things don’t look so bleak. Mara also hears “static” and sometimes seems like a different person, along with severe panic attacks but Garrett is willing to accept her with all of her flaws. He likes to feel needed and love can overcome everything, right? (Gag)
Their co - dependent relationship continues even after Mara tells Garret of her initial plans to kill him. As another reviewer noted, all the characters appear to be a little "touched" and in dire need of some serious therapy, like yesterday!
At times the story was slow as Garrett and Mara get to know each other and Mara struggles with loving the “enemy”. The ending, as I said, was too neat but then apparently there’s a part 2 to the story. Perhaps the author will bring more of real life into the sequel.
Robert Darby is rich, Mara is now all alone. A lawyer convinced Mara to pursue a civil case and even in this, Robert gets off easy. The only consequence is that he know realizes that he shouldn’t take his family for granted.
Mara plans to take away Robert’s family from him and then take her own life. She has no one left and no reason to keep going. However, Garrett enters her life right on time and suddenly things don’t look so bleak. Mara also hears “static” and sometimes seems like a different person, along with severe panic attacks but Garrett is willing to accept her with all of her flaws. He likes to feel needed and love can overcome everything, right? (Gag)
Their co - dependent relationship continues even after Mara tells Garret of her initial plans to kill him. As another reviewer noted, all the characters appear to be a little "touched" and in dire need of some serious therapy, like yesterday!
At times the story was slow as Garrett and Mara get to know each other and Mara struggles with loving the “enemy”. The ending, as I said, was too neat but then apparently there’s a part 2 to the story. Perhaps the author will bring more of real life into the sequel.
November 26, 2023
Ms. Gat is an accomplished writer, as she demonstrates in this quite interesting story about deep wounds -- and the desire to inflict deep wounds in return!
In brief, a young woman who lost her family -- both parents and her beloved, older sister -- in a horrendous automobile crash, decides to kill the man responsible for their deaths.
That man was changed by the crash and blames himself. As a partial means of repaying the impossible-to-repay debt, he starts a new organization which encourages people to call enlisted volunteers to drive them home safely when they have been drinking.
Although the two seem destined to clash in a predictable way, things take an interesting turn when, at the very event where she has brought her father's pistol to murder the man, she meets one of his sons.
And from there things take a few different spins.
Interesting, with believable characters. I enjoyed this book a lot.
In brief, a young woman who lost her family -- both parents and her beloved, older sister -- in a horrendous automobile crash, decides to kill the man responsible for their deaths.
That man was changed by the crash and blames himself. As a partial means of repaying the impossible-to-repay debt, he starts a new organization which encourages people to call enlisted volunteers to drive them home safely when they have been drinking.
Although the two seem destined to clash in a predictable way, things take an interesting turn when, at the very event where she has brought her father's pistol to murder the man, she meets one of his sons.
And from there things take a few different spins.
Interesting, with believable characters. I enjoyed this book a lot.
May 29, 2021
👍🏾
She Had To Kill Him is a book centered around revenge. When Mara’s parents and sister are killed by a drunk driver she tries to avenge their death. I think the author did a decent job with the storyline. I liked the beginning and the
end but someone in the middle it didn’t grab me as I was hoping. I love the theme of forgiveness and the mental health aspects that were intertwined in the story. I liked how the author tied in the flashback scenes, it was really helpful and shedded light on Mara’s character. I also feel like Garrett was a good man, he was very easygoing and accepting of Mara and her flaws.
She Had To Kill Him is a book centered around revenge. When Mara’s parents and sister are killed by a drunk driver she tries to avenge their death. I think the author did a decent job with the storyline. I liked the beginning and the
end but someone in the middle it didn’t grab me as I was hoping. I love the theme of forgiveness and the mental health aspects that were intertwined in the story. I liked how the author tied in the flashback scenes, it was really helpful and shedded light on Mara’s character. I also feel like Garrett was a good man, he was very easygoing and accepting of Mara and her flaws.
October 9, 2020
You had me from the moment I started...
From there it was endless. So it seemed, thank you so much for the bonus epilogue, I waited to write this review until I read it! I am glad I did so, may I say,
The final line to this epic novel, truly summed everything up! For the record, it was truly poetic!
As I began to read this book, I could not understand why Mara was at the Fundraiser, however, it is there she met Garrett. From there things become interesting, convoluted, (as a good mystery/thriller should), and sometimes just simply amazing!
Eventually, you began the slight clues, one certainly had to pay attention! The diary entries, were tanamount to understanding a great deal about Mara.
Garrett, was perfect for her, he loved her as she was, wasn't about "fixing" her as his family constantly threw at him, but needed to be needed by her.
Best I can say,
THIS IS A MUST READ! Ms. Gat, thank you for a novel that required absolute brain power, and an amazing story! I truly never thought where or what so hard!
Thank you greatly for this novel being available in KU! It was a blessing I got it the morning if was out, yes mam, I follow you!
I could say so much about the descriptive writing, (amazing), the author's ability to convey thoughts and feelings from her characters, and naturally the plot. But I was never my intention to write a dangle synopsis, I hate those kinds of reviews, it ruins the story for me, I want to personally experience a work from the get go!
Ms. Gat, thank you for a thrilling ride, but and enjoyable afternoon lost in another world.
Karen
From there it was endless. So it seemed, thank you so much for the bonus epilogue, I waited to write this review until I read it! I am glad I did so, may I say,
The final line to this epic novel, truly summed everything up! For the record, it was truly poetic!
As I began to read this book, I could not understand why Mara was at the Fundraiser, however, it is there she met Garrett. From there things become interesting, convoluted, (as a good mystery/thriller should), and sometimes just simply amazing!
Eventually, you began the slight clues, one certainly had to pay attention! The diary entries, were tanamount to understanding a great deal about Mara.
Garrett, was perfect for her, he loved her as she was, wasn't about "fixing" her as his family constantly threw at him, but needed to be needed by her.
Best I can say,
THIS IS A MUST READ! Ms. Gat, thank you for a novel that required absolute brain power, and an amazing story! I truly never thought where or what so hard!
Thank you greatly for this novel being available in KU! It was a blessing I got it the morning if was out, yes mam, I follow you!
I could say so much about the descriptive writing, (amazing), the author's ability to convey thoughts and feelings from her characters, and naturally the plot. But I was never my intention to write a dangle synopsis, I hate those kinds of reviews, it ruins the story for me, I want to personally experience a work from the get go!
Ms. Gat, thank you for a thrilling ride, but and enjoyable afternoon lost in another world.
Karen
June 24, 2020
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book starts with Mara. Shes attending a charity event on her own. Shes used an fake name and has only attended for one reason. To get revenge on the wealthy businessman who got off his charges for killing her family.
She wants him to feel her pain. the loss she is feeling. With her gun hidden, shes ready, waiting for the right moment to complete her mission. But a handsome stranger begins talking to her and distracts her from her task. After a few dates and getting to know this man, she discovers that he is the son of the man who murdered her family.
The emotions, manipulation and panic, the different perspectives of each character. This plot is leaves you in suspense and you need to know more. Aviva really explores each characters emotion and each character is well written. I loved the way we got to experience things from Garrett as well as Robert and Mara, about different situations that occur in the plot.
This is probably my favourite book of hers yet. I really enjoyed the twists and thrill of this novel. I really liked her writing style with this book and enjoyed the way she looked at the different emotions of each individual character. If you are a fan of thriller novels or books with suspense, then you'll really enjoy giving this book a read.
Thank you Aviva Gat for the copy. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
The book starts with Mara. Shes attending a charity event on her own. Shes used an fake name and has only attended for one reason. To get revenge on the wealthy businessman who got off his charges for killing her family.
She wants him to feel her pain. the loss she is feeling. With her gun hidden, shes ready, waiting for the right moment to complete her mission. But a handsome stranger begins talking to her and distracts her from her task. After a few dates and getting to know this man, she discovers that he is the son of the man who murdered her family.
The emotions, manipulation and panic, the different perspectives of each character. This plot is leaves you in suspense and you need to know more. Aviva really explores each characters emotion and each character is well written. I loved the way we got to experience things from Garrett as well as Robert and Mara, about different situations that occur in the plot.
This is probably my favourite book of hers yet. I really enjoyed the twists and thrill of this novel. I really liked her writing style with this book and enjoyed the way she looked at the different emotions of each individual character. If you are a fan of thriller novels or books with suspense, then you'll really enjoy giving this book a read.
Thank you Aviva Gat for the copy. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.
July 7, 2020
This is the 3rd book that I have read from this author. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. I really do enjoy Aviva's writing and her books.
This book is about Mara who on her 21st birthday her family is killed in a drunk driving accident when the drunk driver ran the light. Since then Mara has been seeking revenge and plans to kill the man responsible.
She ends up meeting the son of the man at a gala and quickly finds out who he is. I don't want to say more as I don't want to ruin the book, but I enjoyed how it all tied together.
Now the reason I gave it 4 stars rather than 5, I personally felt that the book was somewhat repetitive. This can be because we get multiple POVs and sometimes the story overlaps. However, I felt that as I was reading that it was more of a love story rather than a thriller/revenge story (which is fine, just not what I expected based on the title and description). In my opinion, the climax part of the book happened right before the end and once it happened it was rushed.
I did enjoy this book though and I hope that you give it an opportunity.
Thank you to the author for the book and I look forward to reading your other books as well.
This book is about Mara who on her 21st birthday her family is killed in a drunk driving accident when the drunk driver ran the light. Since then Mara has been seeking revenge and plans to kill the man responsible.
She ends up meeting the son of the man at a gala and quickly finds out who he is. I don't want to say more as I don't want to ruin the book, but I enjoyed how it all tied together.
Now the reason I gave it 4 stars rather than 5, I personally felt that the book was somewhat repetitive. This can be because we get multiple POVs and sometimes the story overlaps. However, I felt that as I was reading that it was more of a love story rather than a thriller/revenge story (which is fine, just not what I expected based on the title and description). In my opinion, the climax part of the book happened right before the end and once it happened it was rushed.
I did enjoy this book though and I hope that you give it an opportunity.
Thank you to the author for the book and I look forward to reading your other books as well.
May 30, 2021
About the Book:
The book begins as Maya, one of our main characters, is walking into a benefit to help CADD (Call A Designated Driver). It’s founded by Robert Derby, who was the man that hit and killed Mara’s parents and older sister.
Mara isn’t to there to support the cause. As she is leaving the event, she meets Garrett and they begin dating . She finds out later that Garrett is Robert’s son.
So what to you do when the man you are dating has a father that killed your family and you want justice by killing his?
My Thoughts
The book is told in three voices: Robert, Mara, and Garrett. I really enjoyed that as especially from Robert and Mara’s perspectives, we get family history and see the characters as not only how they are in the present but how they once were.
This anticipation if Mara was going to act on her original plan always played in my mind during the read.
This book also goes into Mara’s mental health prior to the accident and her sister’s, Shannon, role in helping Mara with that issue.
There are also diary entries that I also found very interesting that are from Shannon and take on its own sub-story direction.
Lots of layers in this read and I look forward to reading other books from this new to me author.
The book begins as Maya, one of our main characters, is walking into a benefit to help CADD (Call A Designated Driver). It’s founded by Robert Derby, who was the man that hit and killed Mara’s parents and older sister.
Mara isn’t to there to support the cause. As she is leaving the event, she meets Garrett and they begin dating . She finds out later that Garrett is Robert’s son.
So what to you do when the man you are dating has a father that killed your family and you want justice by killing his?
My Thoughts
The book is told in three voices: Robert, Mara, and Garrett. I really enjoyed that as especially from Robert and Mara’s perspectives, we get family history and see the characters as not only how they are in the present but how they once were.
This anticipation if Mara was going to act on her original plan always played in my mind during the read.
This book also goes into Mara’s mental health prior to the accident and her sister’s, Shannon, role in helping Mara with that issue.
There are also diary entries that I also found very interesting that are from Shannon and take on its own sub-story direction.
Lots of layers in this read and I look forward to reading other books from this new to me author.
June 8, 2021
Maras family was killed in a drunk driving accident on her 21st birthday. The man who did it got off extremely easy. Now Mara wants vengeance for her family. She plans to kill the man who killed her family. When she's on her way to do that, she meets a man who changes everything.
My biggest gripe with this book is it's marketed as a psychological thriller. Its not. Like, at all. Its more like a family drama than anything. The book isn't actually that bad. Its not great, but its definitely okay. As an avid thriller fan, I'm extremely disappointed in the marketing for this book. If I hadn't gone into it expecting a thriller, then it might have been better.
The plot was actually kind of interesting, and could have made an actually decent thriller. But it didn't. I spent the entire book expecting something to happen AND IT NEVER DID. I'm not going to spoil it, in case someone wants to read it, but I was disappointed.
Would I recommend it?
So here's the thing. The book isn't bad, but you have to understand what you're getting into. If you dig family dramas and crazy family dynamics, you might like it. If you want a psychological thriller, don't even bother.
My biggest gripe with this book is it's marketed as a psychological thriller. Its not. Like, at all. Its more like a family drama than anything. The book isn't actually that bad. Its not great, but its definitely okay. As an avid thriller fan, I'm extremely disappointed in the marketing for this book. If I hadn't gone into it expecting a thriller, then it might have been better.
The plot was actually kind of interesting, and could have made an actually decent thriller. But it didn't. I spent the entire book expecting something to happen AND IT NEVER DID. I'm not going to spoil it, in case someone wants to read it, but I was disappointed.
Would I recommend it?
So here's the thing. The book isn't bad, but you have to understand what you're getting into. If you dig family dramas and crazy family dynamics, you might like it. If you want a psychological thriller, don't even bother.
November 25, 2023
Unexpected
Mara intends to kill the family of the man who killed her family, but things don’t turn out the way she planned. Instead of killing the Derby family, she ends up falling in love with Garrett Derby, the son of the man she hates.
This is a story of growing up, figuring things out, and forgiveness. There were some questions that were left unanswered. What happened to the money problems Robert had? Did CADD become self-sufficient? Every time we heard from Robert he was talking about money; to leave these questions unanswered seems strange. I also wonder how Mara ingratiates herself to the Derby clan. It seemed none of them liked her. Did she just become more “likable” once she took control of her mental health? I would have liked more information on those relationships since they were a focus throughout the book.
Overall, I liked this book. I’m not sure how “thrilling” it was; there were no twists. Still, it was a good book. Watching Mara get her life together and take charge was satisfying. It definitely wasn’t as dark as I had anticipated.
Mara intends to kill the family of the man who killed her family, but things don’t turn out the way she planned. Instead of killing the Derby family, she ends up falling in love with Garrett Derby, the son of the man she hates.
This is a story of growing up, figuring things out, and forgiveness. There were some questions that were left unanswered. What happened to the money problems Robert had? Did CADD become self-sufficient? Every time we heard from Robert he was talking about money; to leave these questions unanswered seems strange. I also wonder how Mara ingratiates herself to the Derby clan. It seemed none of them liked her. Did she just become more “likable” once she took control of her mental health? I would have liked more information on those relationships since they were a focus throughout the book.
Overall, I liked this book. I’m not sure how “thrilling” it was; there were no twists. Still, it was a good book. Watching Mara get her life together and take charge was satisfying. It definitely wasn’t as dark as I had anticipated.
June 14, 2020
I've read all of Aviva's books and this one is different from her previous works and I think the stand out of them all.
Mara lost her parents and her sister and best friend to a drunk driver on her twenty-first birthday. The drunk driver is a wealthy businessman and respected in the community. When he gets off with just a fine, Mara is determined to make him feel the loss that she's felt for the last two years. Her plan is in place, she has a gun, then just as she's about to do it a handsome stranger comes along...
From here this story takes off on a twisty ride involving suppressed feelings, manipulations and panic attacks. Very well written with a steady pace and intrigue, Aviva's first foray into the suspense/thriller genre is, I think, a highly successful one.
Thank you Aviva Gat for the ebook to read, review and enjoy. I look forward to what you come up with next!
Mara lost her parents and her sister and best friend to a drunk driver on her twenty-first birthday. The drunk driver is a wealthy businessman and respected in the community. When he gets off with just a fine, Mara is determined to make him feel the loss that she's felt for the last two years. Her plan is in place, she has a gun, then just as she's about to do it a handsome stranger comes along...
From here this story takes off on a twisty ride involving suppressed feelings, manipulations and panic attacks. Very well written with a steady pace and intrigue, Aviva's first foray into the suspense/thriller genre is, I think, a highly successful one.
Thank you Aviva Gat for the ebook to read, review and enjoy. I look forward to what you come up with next!
July 8, 2020
The first line will hook you: "There are two ways to get away with mass murder. The first, an expensive lawyer. The second, suicide. Robert Derby used the first one. I'm using the second."
Narrated from multiple characters, She Had To Kill Him is a twisty romance that has a good pace and intrigue. This is the third novel by Aviva Gat that I've had the opportunity to read and while it's the first in the "thriller" or "suspense" genre, I don't think it should be her last. However, I would say it's similar in it's "unputdownableness" (that's a word, right?) and ease of reading. I read it in slightly more than 24 hours. I also like how in all her novels I may have an idea of how the story is going to go and I'm usually just slightly wrong and end up in a different place.
Content warnings: mental illness, family loss, abusive relationships
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Narrated from multiple characters, She Had To Kill Him is a twisty romance that has a good pace and intrigue. This is the third novel by Aviva Gat that I've had the opportunity to read and while it's the first in the "thriller" or "suspense" genre, I don't think it should be her last. However, I would say it's similar in it's "unputdownableness" (that's a word, right?) and ease of reading. I read it in slightly more than 24 hours. I also like how in all her novels I may have an idea of how the story is going to go and I'm usually just slightly wrong and end up in a different place.
Content warnings: mental illness, family loss, abusive relationships
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2020
Mara feels like she has nothing to live for. She has anxiety attacks, which her sister used to pull her through. On Mara’s 21st birthday her parents picked up her sister to surprise her at her birthday dinner. They would never arrive though. They got killed in a car accident with a drunk driver. She then contemplates on getting her revenge. “There are two ways to get away with mass murder. The first, an expensive lawyer. The second suicide. Robert Derby used the first one. I’m using the second.” The first sentence of the book basically says it all. Mara has nothing to lose.
I love that this book has quite a few unexpected events. It’s not your regular thriller, but most definitely also not your regular romance. A very nice read! 👌🏽 And I love that there is a bonus chapter, as I love a closure with a smile in books!
I love that this book has quite a few unexpected events. It’s not your regular thriller, but most definitely also not your regular romance. A very nice read! 👌🏽 And I love that there is a bonus chapter, as I love a closure with a smile in books!
January 6, 2022
This is a good, psychological thriller about the extent one’s grief when faced with the wrongful death of loved ones. Mara was celebrating her 21st birthday, but her family never makes it to the celebration. The family is killed by a drunk driver, a affluent commercial real estate investor, who gets off rather lightly. Two years later, Mara wants justice. She wants the drunk driver to understand how it feels to lose everything. She has a plan, she has a gun, and she knows how to use it. But her plans take an unexpected, emotional turn.
This book takes odd, unexpected but interesting turns and the reader is taken along on the mystery and discovery of what will happen next. How will this end. The ending is unexpected, and there is an element that is unbelievable, which essentially makes for an interesting, quick summer read.
This book takes odd, unexpected but interesting turns and the reader is taken along on the mystery and discovery of what will happen next. How will this end. The ending is unexpected, and there is an element that is unbelievable, which essentially makes for an interesting, quick summer read.
June 12, 2020
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed all Aviva's books, but I have to say this was my favorite so far. A page turner, full of surprises. When you think you know where the story is going you are totally wrong. This is the story of Mara and how she deals with her family's death after a car accident. Family drama, intriguing secrets, love and much more!!! I also liked the fact that the story was narrated from different points of view, it gave a more objective point of view instead of the impartial first person narrative. This way you got to know all of them a little bit at the time, like a puzzle slowly composing in front of your eyes.
What else to say...start reading it, you won't regret it.
What else to say...start reading it, you won't regret it.
December 3, 2020
“Life is complicated... But that’s why it’s worth living.” 💚
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Aviva’s writing continues to impress me! This story starts with drama and mystery, and her protagonist Mara grabbed my attention from the get-go. ❤️
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Mara’s family are involved in a tragic accident, and the only thing she can see is revenge. Throughout the novel, we see her character battle mental illness, learn to accept herself, learn to forgive, and fall in love. 📚
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Aviva’s ability to make her characters come to life is incredible! I really empathised with Mara and the journey she had to endure. 💚
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I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for dramatic prose that has you gripped from the start! Who is responsible for causing Mara’s family tragedy and how will she get her revenge?
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Aviva’s writing continues to impress me! This story starts with drama and mystery, and her protagonist Mara grabbed my attention from the get-go. ❤️
.
Mara’s family are involved in a tragic accident, and the only thing she can see is revenge. Throughout the novel, we see her character battle mental illness, learn to accept herself, learn to forgive, and fall in love. 📚
.
Aviva’s ability to make her characters come to life is incredible! I really empathised with Mara and the journey she had to endure. 💚
.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for dramatic prose that has you gripped from the start! Who is responsible for causing Mara’s family tragedy and how will she get her revenge?
February 7, 2021
I loved the plot and idea of this book! It was very interesting, and each chapter made me want to continue and learn more. The author did a great job of telling the story bit by bit, letting me slowly uncover the truth. The book tells the story from different point of views, which I enjoyed! It made the story feel whole and let me connect and understand each character even better. The book touches on mental illness which I always find fascinating and important.
Some of the characters felt a bit too stereotypical, for example Robert’s wife, Bonnie, and all throughout the beginning and middle of the book I wasn’t convinced by Garret’s actions or feelings. I needed more from him (maybe more background information) to make his character come to life and feel real!
Some of the characters felt a bit too stereotypical, for example Robert’s wife, Bonnie, and all throughout the beginning and middle of the book I wasn’t convinced by Garret’s actions or feelings. I needed more from him (maybe more background information) to make his character come to life and feel real!
October 12, 2020
suspenseful and extremely heartwarming.
this book has a little bit of everything. you will not be disappointed. There is quite a bit of suspense, a huge unexpected twist, and some tears of joy and sadness. revenge, fueled by deep deep sadness, is turned around in a way you would not believe. Not only is it turned around, you won’t believe what causes it to be turned around. if you had lost everyone in your immediate family, how would you handle it? If you came face-to-face with the person responsible, what would you do? These questions, and many more, will be flowing through your mind as you read the book.
this book has a little bit of everything. you will not be disappointed. There is quite a bit of suspense, a huge unexpected twist, and some tears of joy and sadness. revenge, fueled by deep deep sadness, is turned around in a way you would not believe. Not only is it turned around, you won’t believe what causes it to be turned around. if you had lost everyone in your immediate family, how would you handle it? If you came face-to-face with the person responsible, what would you do? These questions, and many more, will be flowing through your mind as you read the book.
February 7, 2021
This book follows Mara. Her family was killed by a drunk driver on the eve of her 21st birthday. Justice was not served as the drunk driver was wealthy and basically got a slap on the wrist. We follow her journey through sadness, a need for revenge, obsession, and mental illness. Although it was easy to find something to dislike about most of the characters they were drawn so well that you could also find the good side of all but one. There was a lot of sadness in this story but it also showed forgiveness, acceptance, and love. This was my first time with this author but certainly won't be the last.
June 1, 2021
This book is so hard to rate because i don’t know how i feel about it. It was an interesting premise but also very different than i expected. I was expecting high intensity and more of a thriller than it was. To me it seemed more of a family drama and a romance than anything else.
I think if it was purely a romance with a little drama i may have enjoyed it more. The writing was a bit tedious and i found myself bored by all the tiny details. I enjoyed the couple and them falling for each other. I enjoyed the aspect of her battling herself and then the twist was pretty decent. But it just wasn’t as thrilling as i had hoped. I didn’t love it as much as i had hoped to.
I think if it was purely a romance with a little drama i may have enjoyed it more. The writing was a bit tedious and i found myself bored by all the tiny details. I enjoyed the couple and them falling for each other. I enjoyed the aspect of her battling herself and then the twist was pretty decent. But it just wasn’t as thrilling as i had hoped. I didn’t love it as much as i had hoped to.
November 2, 2023
Extremely creepy
This author truly created one of the creepiest books I have ever read- and I didn't even read the whole thing. The book was written in the first person and switched between narrators but Mara was truly mentally ill, playing at normalcy but achieving anything but.
I love mysteries, thrillers and serial-killer books but this was really beyond my tolerance. Four stars for this writer's ability to create psychological imbalance but only try this book if you are willing to have bad dreams.
This author truly created one of the creepiest books I have ever read- and I didn't even read the whole thing. The book was written in the first person and switched between narrators but Mara was truly mentally ill, playing at normalcy but achieving anything but.
I love mysteries, thrillers and serial-killer books but this was really beyond my tolerance. Four stars for this writer's ability to create psychological imbalance but only try this book if you are willing to have bad dreams.
December 13, 2025
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. And Mara doesn't realize how close her enemy is, nor who the real enemy is. The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, and follows past and present timelines - I don't care about them, but they might bother some readers. Several times, the story heads in unexpected directions, keeping me on my toes. It isn't the thriller I thought it would be, more of a romantic suspense type of story. But it was still a wonderful book that I enjoyed and would recommend.
June 6, 2020
I have read all of Aviva’s books. She is am amazing writer.
This book is about Mara. Her family is killed on her 21st birthday by a drunk driver.
We get to follow her story of sadness and her desire for revenge, falling in love brings many complications to her plans for revenge for her family. This a book that is easy to read and you won’t want to put it down until you finish it.
Patt Edginton
This book is about Mara. Her family is killed on her 21st birthday by a drunk driver.
We get to follow her story of sadness and her desire for revenge, falling in love brings many complications to her plans for revenge for her family. This a book that is easy to read and you won’t want to put it down until you finish it.
Patt Edginton
January 14, 2021
Wow!! I really enjoyed reading She Had to Kill Him because it was the kind of book that kept me on the edge of my seat. I never knew what was going to happen next and it really was an engaging story to read. There was sadness, mystery, forgiveness and love all mixed in this story. I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest opinion. I really liked it and I highly recommend reading it.
October 26, 2023
If I was an afternoon movie sort of gal this would be right up my street; I did enjoy this daft offering but I feel a bit embarrassed doing so - trite romance novels are absolutely not my thing but this one had an evilish twist and kept my attention; so, though preposterous, I’m willing to admit to having read the book and rooted for Mara and the dreadfully monikered Garrett to have a happy ending.
Just don’t tell anyone I did, though.
Just don’t tell anyone I did, though.
June 13, 2020
Mara wants revenge after her parents are killed by a drunk driver on her 21st birthday. The driver gets off with a light fine because of his wealth and influence in the community. Mara plots to kill his family At a fundraising event until she meets a stranger that just may save her. She had to kill him shows what grief can do to those that are unstable.
August 30, 2020
Wow!
Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2020
I could not put this book down once I started! I was totally absorbed into it. The story is very well written. The characters are extremely realistic and the suspense builds wonderfully. I did not see the ending coming. I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion. Read it - you will not be disappointed!
Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2020
I could not put this book down once I started! I was totally absorbed into it. The story is very well written. The characters are extremely realistic and the suspense builds wonderfully. I did not see the ending coming. I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion. Read it - you will not be disappointed!
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