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Women of Redemption #1
The Advocate
"One of the best books I've read in a long time... - Kindle Customer"
"Suspense, danger, twists and turns... - Kindle Customer" Palmer Reed is still haunted by her tragic past. Frustrated her childhood kidnappers escaped justice, she accepts a position at an advocacy foundation, hoping to support other victims of crime. But she’s stunned to discover that behind the scenes of the glamorous fundraising galas, a sinister conspiracy lurks. Strong-armed by the determined founder into squeezing money from lawbreaking “donors,” she’s troubled by the shady practices used to raise big dollars. With her conscience eating at her, Palmer sets out to uncover the true depths of the shadowy scheme, and unearths a shocking connection between the organization and her own kidnapping. Can Palmer expose the deadly truth before she falls prey—again? The Advocate is the first standalone book in the riveting Women of Redemption suspense thriller series, featuring women who aren't perfect, but perfectly kick-ass when given a second chance. If you like strong female heroines, titanic twists, and danger around every corner, you’ll love this edge-of-your-seat read! For fans of James Patterson’s Murder Club, L.T. Ryan’s Rachel Hatch, and John Grisham’s The Brethren.
Buy your copy to get lost in a sinister conspiracy today! Interview with the Author
Q - So, what makes the Women of Redemption books special?
A – I think it really boils down to the characters. When I write, I let the characters tell me who they are, and what I discover is that like any of us, they wrestle with the challenges life throws at them in a varied manner. The emotions they experience are real – anger, betrayal, hurt, grief, guilt – and the choices they make as a result – whether revenge or turning a blind eye - may not be good or right, but they’re human. The question facing each in the end, is what will they do to make the wrong right?
Q – You like to throw your strong female protagonists into some impossible situations. Why is that?
A – I’ve always liked books about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. I believe people often find the best in themselves when faced with the worst. I want readers to put themselves in these women’s shoes, and think, what would I do if I faced this particular challenge?
Q – These books seem to cross genre boundaries, a bit mystery, suspense, and thriller.
A – I think all authors like to create books that mirror the kind of books they like to read. My top picks are usually serial killer thrillers, psychological thrillers, private detectives, and any number of thriller and mystery best sellers. I love a fast-paced style with strong characters. As a result, I think my books tend to take a part from each genre – a bit “whodunit”, some “don’t open that door”, add a few high stakes and blend them together.
Q - So, why should a reader check out your books?
A - Because you'll love the page-turning action! And thanks for reading!
"Suspense, danger, twists and turns... - Kindle Customer" Palmer Reed is still haunted by her tragic past. Frustrated her childhood kidnappers escaped justice, she accepts a position at an advocacy foundation, hoping to support other victims of crime. But she’s stunned to discover that behind the scenes of the glamorous fundraising galas, a sinister conspiracy lurks. Strong-armed by the determined founder into squeezing money from lawbreaking “donors,” she’s troubled by the shady practices used to raise big dollars. With her conscience eating at her, Palmer sets out to uncover the true depths of the shadowy scheme, and unearths a shocking connection between the organization and her own kidnapping. Can Palmer expose the deadly truth before she falls prey—again? The Advocate is the first standalone book in the riveting Women of Redemption suspense thriller series, featuring women who aren't perfect, but perfectly kick-ass when given a second chance. If you like strong female heroines, titanic twists, and danger around every corner, you’ll love this edge-of-your-seat read! For fans of James Patterson’s Murder Club, L.T. Ryan’s Rachel Hatch, and John Grisham’s The Brethren.
Buy your copy to get lost in a sinister conspiracy today! Interview with the Author
Q - So, what makes the Women of Redemption books special?
A – I think it really boils down to the characters. When I write, I let the characters tell me who they are, and what I discover is that like any of us, they wrestle with the challenges life throws at them in a varied manner. The emotions they experience are real – anger, betrayal, hurt, grief, guilt – and the choices they make as a result – whether revenge or turning a blind eye - may not be good or right, but they’re human. The question facing each in the end, is what will they do to make the wrong right?
Q – You like to throw your strong female protagonists into some impossible situations. Why is that?
A – I’ve always liked books about ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. I believe people often find the best in themselves when faced with the worst. I want readers to put themselves in these women’s shoes, and think, what would I do if I faced this particular challenge?
Q – These books seem to cross genre boundaries, a bit mystery, suspense, and thriller.
A – I think all authors like to create books that mirror the kind of books they like to read. My top picks are usually serial killer thrillers, psychological thrillers, private detectives, and any number of thriller and mystery best sellers. I love a fast-paced style with strong characters. As a result, I think my books tend to take a part from each genre – a bit “whodunit”, some “don’t open that door”, add a few high stakes and blend them together.
Q - So, why should a reader check out your books?
A - Because you'll love the page-turning action! And thanks for reading!
253 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2018
About the author
Lori Lacefield
13 books240 followersI write suspense thrillers, including the Frankie Johnson FBI Local Profiler Series, and the Women of Redemption Series. Each book in the FBI series features behavioral analysis and crime scene investigation as Frankie is called in to profile and hunt a brutal killer. If you like books by Lisa Gardner, Catherine Coulter, Meg Gardiner, Mike Omer, A.J. Rivers, or Alex Kava, you will like this series.
The Women of Redemption series is a theme-based series that focuses on flawed, but realistic, heroines who must face the consequences of their actions when their past circles back in unexpected ways. These women aren't perfect, but perfectly kick-ass when given a second chance. If you like books by L.T. Ryan, L.T. Vargus, John Grisham, John Ellsworth, or Victor Methos, you'll like this series.
I began my writing journey many, many years ago. S.E. Hinton and V.C. Andrews were early influences, followed by Stephen King and Mary Higgins Clark. I have far too many favorite authors today to make mention of them all, but John Grisham, Michael Connelly, and Dennis Lehane are high on the list. I love reading new authors as well as diverse voices.
I'm a lover of coffee, books, music, yoga, wine, travel, and most of all dogs. I currently live in Colorado with two senior Pomeranians and one feisty Papillion.
The Women of Redemption series is a theme-based series that focuses on flawed, but realistic, heroines who must face the consequences of their actions when their past circles back in unexpected ways. These women aren't perfect, but perfectly kick-ass when given a second chance. If you like books by L.T. Ryan, L.T. Vargus, John Grisham, John Ellsworth, or Victor Methos, you'll like this series.
I began my writing journey many, many years ago. S.E. Hinton and V.C. Andrews were early influences, followed by Stephen King and Mary Higgins Clark. I have far too many favorite authors today to make mention of them all, but John Grisham, Michael Connelly, and Dennis Lehane are high on the list. I love reading new authors as well as diverse voices.
I'm a lover of coffee, books, music, yoga, wine, travel, and most of all dogs. I currently live in Colorado with two senior Pomeranians and one feisty Papillion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 2, 2023
3.5 stars. Not a bad story, but anyone with any brains would never have photographed the reverend.
And no way would the cops work like that
And the disguise issues. Thin
Very unrealistic but a good escape book.
And no way would the cops work like that
And the disguise issues. Thin
Very unrealistic but a good escape book.
December 16, 2018
A very exciting story
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written story. It covers many years and is complicated, but clearly written. Starting with her childhood at 12, where the female leading character was kidnapped for four days, during which she was starved and tied up on the back seat of a car, lying in her own faeces, she was almost raped by one of her two captors. The other one defended her and prevented it from happening. Marjoram arrived to rescue her and cleaned her up. In fact, she was more of a mother to her than her own mother. Tragically her adored dad refused to testify against her captors, leaving his daughter with strict instructions to leave well enough alone on penalty of death. He was murdered and his daughter still kept her word not to reveal the truth of what happened. To her amazed delight, she was invited to join the Foundation which had an excellent reputation for doing good to various victims of bad circumstances. Once officially enrolled, she was informed that Marjoram hoped she would take over from her eventually. Marjoram was counting on her desire for answers about her honourable father's out of character behaviour and revenge. What her mentor did not count on was her quick intelligent mind connecting the dots and her strong integrity which was horrified when she discovered her rescuer was not the heroine she and everybody else had always believed her to be. Once she realised what was really going on, she no longer cowered in fear but took great risks and faced considerable persecution to expose terrible secrets which had caused many great tragedies. I loved the story and thought it was carefully crafted and brilliantly developed. Strongly recommended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written story. It covers many years and is complicated, but clearly written. Starting with her childhood at 12, where the female leading character was kidnapped for four days, during which she was starved and tied up on the back seat of a car, lying in her own faeces, she was almost raped by one of her two captors. The other one defended her and prevented it from happening. Marjoram arrived to rescue her and cleaned her up. In fact, she was more of a mother to her than her own mother. Tragically her adored dad refused to testify against her captors, leaving his daughter with strict instructions to leave well enough alone on penalty of death. He was murdered and his daughter still kept her word not to reveal the truth of what happened. To her amazed delight, she was invited to join the Foundation which had an excellent reputation for doing good to various victims of bad circumstances. Once officially enrolled, she was informed that Marjoram hoped she would take over from her eventually. Marjoram was counting on her desire for answers about her honourable father's out of character behaviour and revenge. What her mentor did not count on was her quick intelligent mind connecting the dots and her strong integrity which was horrified when she discovered her rescuer was not the heroine she and everybody else had always believed her to be. Once she realised what was really going on, she no longer cowered in fear but took great risks and faced considerable persecution to expose terrible secrets which had caused many great tragedies. I loved the story and thought it was carefully crafted and brilliantly developed. Strongly recommended.
December 16, 2018
This book is part of the Women of Redemption series. I haven't read other books in the series, so I don't know if they are a continuing story arc or if each book focuses on different people/different situations that aren't connected to the others.
The book starts out with a feel good aspect. Palmer Reed and her best friend Keely Shaw are invited to become board members with the Diamond Foundation. Palmer was kidnapped as a child and Keely endured abuse as a child, so they both are touched to be asked to help with a foundation that assists other victims. At the same time, one of the people Palmer believes was the instigator of her kidnapping decides to run for public office which reopens old wounds for Palmer and spurs Keely's fiancé to work with Alex, a reporter, to try to get proof against a SHL.
After about three months with the foundation, the plot takes an unexpected twist--and it's not the only twist the plot takes. There are several that I didn't expect. In this case, the reader knows who the bad people are . . . it's just needing the evidence to prove it.
The book starts out with a feel good aspect. Palmer Reed and her best friend Keely Shaw are invited to become board members with the Diamond Foundation. Palmer was kidnapped as a child and Keely endured abuse as a child, so they both are touched to be asked to help with a foundation that assists other victims. At the same time, one of the people Palmer believes was the instigator of her kidnapping decides to run for public office which reopens old wounds for Palmer and spurs Keely's fiancé to work with Alex, a reporter, to try to get proof against a SHL.
After about three months with the foundation, the plot takes an unexpected twist--and it's not the only twist the plot takes. There are several that I didn't expect. In this case, the reader knows who the bad people are . . . it's just needing the evidence to prove it.
June 23, 2018
As a long standing fan of suspense novels, this one did not disappoint. Full of twists and turns and unexpected alliances, this will keep you turning the pages until the end.
The heroine, Palmer, grips your heart early on when you learn of the way she had been victimized as a young girl. She turns that pain into power as a member of the Diamond Foundation, helping to right the injustices that victims experience every day in this country. She shines as one who will do right, no matter the circumstances, and you find yourself rooting for her from beginning to end.
As a lifelong fan of the queen of suspense, Mary Higgins Clark, I’d have to say that after reading this, the crown is up for grabs.
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book to read and review. The opinions expressed above are my own.
The heroine, Palmer, grips your heart early on when you learn of the way she had been victimized as a young girl. She turns that pain into power as a member of the Diamond Foundation, helping to right the injustices that victims experience every day in this country. She shines as one who will do right, no matter the circumstances, and you find yourself rooting for her from beginning to end.
As a lifelong fan of the queen of suspense, Mary Higgins Clark, I’d have to say that after reading this, the crown is up for grabs.
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book to read and review. The opinions expressed above are my own.
July 24, 2022
Interesting story. There was a womans club called the Diamond Foundation run by a woman name Marjoram. The foundation was about helping people who were brutalized, raped, abused ,beaten or run into hard emotional happenings. The ladies choose who they should help by paying medical expenses or helping them get other sorts of help. Little did the ladies that were considered to be elected as members all had at sometime or other in their lives had those sort of incident happen to them. Palmer was proud to help when Marjoram suggested she wanted to have her join the foundation. Palmer had been raped when she was younger. But down the line these newly elected ladies were still not allowed to the secret meetings for awhile. Palmer ended up doing lots more work after awhile even if it may get her killed.Can't say much more without giving to much else about this story.
May 4, 2020
New author for me here and really enjoyed this book. Palmer Reed, a victim herself, feels good about being accepted into a Foundation that helps those people who were victims of crimes. It was a dream come true for her until several months into her position as a director she realizes the foundation isnt what it seems to be.
The one person she looked up to, Marjoram, apparently is squeezing money from donors by shady practices. It is then that Palmer Reed feels she must doing something about it. Only to find herself so deeply involved that she becomes prey herself.
I truly didnt know who to trust as Palmer uncovers more and more clues as to what is really going on inside the Foundation. Great book, good author and I have already downloaded book #2 #fourstars #KindleUnlimited
The one person she looked up to, Marjoram, apparently is squeezing money from donors by shady practices. It is then that Palmer Reed feels she must doing something about it. Only to find herself so deeply involved that she becomes prey herself.
I truly didnt know who to trust as Palmer uncovers more and more clues as to what is really going on inside the Foundation. Great book, good author and I have already downloaded book #2 #fourstars #KindleUnlimited
October 19, 2020
Interesting premise - okay read 3.30 stars
I liked the fact that the book was about strong women and examined the balance of good and evil in them. The story had some interesting twists and turns but could have benefitted from some editing of the grammar. It held my attention for the first half of the book, but became a bit "ho-hum" as the story continued. While a happy ending can be nice , this one was unrealistically. Nice. I would have preferred a more realistic and detailed ending. I realize this is the first in a series, but I doubt that I will actively seek other books by this author.
I liked the fact that the book was about strong women and examined the balance of good and evil in them. The story had some interesting twists and turns but could have benefitted from some editing of the grammar. It held my attention for the first half of the book, but became a bit "ho-hum" as the story continued. While a happy ending can be nice , this one was unrealistically. Nice. I would have preferred a more realistic and detailed ending. I realize this is the first in a series, but I doubt that I will actively seek other books by this author.
September 5, 2018
Love this book!
I have always loved a good mystery novel and this one lived up to my hopes. Taking the past and weaving it into the present just added to the storyline! The main character was awesome and she was filled with so many flaws that I just could help but get engrossed into Palmer’s life and just could not wait to see what she would do! She was just so real and came off the pages as if she really was an actual person and not a character in the book. I cannot wait to get ahold of the next in the series!
I have always loved a good mystery novel and this one lived up to my hopes. Taking the past and weaving it into the present just added to the storyline! The main character was awesome and she was filled with so many flaws that I just could help but get engrossed into Palmer’s life and just could not wait to see what she would do! She was just so real and came off the pages as if she really was an actual person and not a character in the book. I cannot wait to get ahold of the next in the series!
May 16, 2025
A good story with lots of excitement…
but more than a little unbelievable. Not unbelievable when it comes to the crimes that were committed, but unbelievable in the way the police handled it, especially at the end. Also, there were so many characters that I often had to go back and double check who someone was. That could have been avoided by the author simply adding a few words to remind the reader who someone was when that someone hadn’t been mentioned in a while. But overall, the book was still some good escapist fiction, so I give it four stars.
but more than a little unbelievable. Not unbelievable when it comes to the crimes that were committed, but unbelievable in the way the police handled it, especially at the end. Also, there were so many characters that I often had to go back and double check who someone was. That could have been avoided by the author simply adding a few words to remind the reader who someone was when that someone hadn’t been mentioned in a while. But overall, the book was still some good escapist fiction, so I give it four stars.
August 9, 2018
A fast-paced thriller, this novel is a twisting tale of revenge. What would a victim of a crime do to find peace from the mental demons that haunt her after the crime? Would she find peace in helping others who suffered the same type of crime? Or would she become a vigilante and punish those who perpetrate those crimes? You'll have to read the book to find the answer. I received this book as part of the Goodreads Giveaway program.
February 8, 2019
palmer reed has a chance to be a part of a foundation that assists victims and advocates for them. having been a victim herself as a child, palmer knows only too well the scars, both physical and emotional that plague victims. but all is not as it seems in the foundation, and if what palmer
suspects is correct, people are going to die. but it can't be true - this is a foundation to help
people - that could never happen, right? never. say. never.
suspects is correct, people are going to die. but it can't be true - this is a foundation to help
people - that could never happen, right? never. say. never.
March 9, 2020
Surprisingly different
This isn't the typical whodunit. I love the way it shows how a basically law abiding person can get caught up in a not so legal activity. Good and evil often abide together. Palmer is courageous in her search for the truth even though it reveals her own participation in some of the scheme.
I would have given it 5 stars had the grammar not been so atrocious. Does no one know the difference between nominative and objective case?
This isn't the typical whodunit. I love the way it shows how a basically law abiding person can get caught up in a not so legal activity. Good and evil often abide together. Palmer is courageous in her search for the truth even though it reveals her own participation in some of the scheme.
I would have given it 5 stars had the grammar not been so atrocious. Does no one know the difference between nominative and objective case?
February 7, 2019
Good first book in a new series
Good story featuring strong, determined women that are not perfect. There are many characters introduced very early in the book and at times, I had difficulty remembering who was who. It was easier as the story continued. I am going to now move into the 2nd book.in this series.
Good story featuring strong, determined women that are not perfect. There are many characters introduced very early in the book and at times, I had difficulty remembering who was who. It was easier as the story continued. I am going to now move into the 2nd book.in this series.
July 10, 2020
So, this was probably more of a 2.5 rounded up for me. It was ok. I liked the characters; I thought they were well written & complex enough to be interesting. However, I just found the whole situation a little... far fetched... maybe. That might not be the best word, but I thought the plot was just ok... it didn't grab me.
July 14, 2020
Engrossing read!
This book is filled with rich characters who all had a story to tell. The author was able to weave them together into an explosive story. Who doesn’t want justice? What would/ could you do if you found a way to right a wrong against you, your family or friends? How far would you go?
This book is filled with rich characters who all had a story to tell. The author was able to weave them together into an explosive story. Who doesn’t want justice? What would/ could you do if you found a way to right a wrong against you, your family or friends? How far would you go?
January 3, 2022
Unexpected
I was quite well into this book and finding it interesting when it dawned on me exactly what it was about. From there on, it just got better. Some totally unexpected events with a good cast of characters makes this a great book to settle down with and forget the ordinary world.
I was quite well into this book and finding it interesting when it dawned on me exactly what it was about. From there on, it just got better. Some totally unexpected events with a good cast of characters makes this a great book to settle down with and forget the ordinary world.
July 14, 2022
What a tangled web
Vigilante justice? Extortion?? Is it always the way to go?? Maybe.. I believe in justice.. even vigilante justice in some cases.. But to this degree? No. So many people were hurt because of the greed of one woman.. I will say Palmer has balls.. Very well written..
Vigilante justice? Extortion?? Is it always the way to go?? Maybe.. I believe in justice.. even vigilante justice in some cases.. But to this degree? No. So many people were hurt because of the greed of one woman.. I will say Palmer has balls.. Very well written..
March 1, 2025
This author has become my new favorite author. She builds a great story.
How something so great can spiral into a nightmare with a litttle knowledge.
How kinship and sisterhood can manipulate you into agreeing that one small bad thing can make a world of diffeence for someone else.
How the bad slip the system but only to be introduced to he sisterhood.
How something so great can spiral into a nightmare with a litttle knowledge.
How kinship and sisterhood can manipulate you into agreeing that one small bad thing can make a world of diffeence for someone else.
How the bad slip the system but only to be introduced to he sisterhood.
July 8, 2018
Absolutely loved this book!! I love mystery thrillers, especially with strong female lead roles. This story had me on the edge of my seat. This mystery writer is going to give the likes of James Patterson and John Grisham some pretty hefty competition. Can't wait for Ms. Lacefield's next book.
October 8, 2018
Addictive book.
Loved the book, and the topic, and also the writing. Am getting ready to read the next book, but would definitely recommend this book to all who want an exciting read.
Loved the book, and the topic, and also the writing. Am getting ready to read the next book, but would definitely recommend this book to all who want an exciting read.
October 12, 2018
So good
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery. This book was so good, that I didnt wanna put it down. I will be reading the next one. I instantly like the main character palmer and felt sorry for her, later on in the novel I thought she was badass.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery. This book was so good, that I didnt wanna put it down. I will be reading the next one. I instantly like the main character palmer and felt sorry for her, later on in the novel I thought she was badass.
December 17, 2018
Good women drama
Good from beginning to end. I was waiting for someone to die,but didn't expected the one who did.Great story of women power,but for some not positive power.With old murders,combine with new ones ,keeps you guessing until the end
Good from beginning to end. I was waiting for someone to die,but didn't expected the one who did.Great story of women power,but for some not positive power.With old murders,combine with new ones ,keeps you guessing until the end
December 28, 2018
A group of women advocate for those who the court system has failed. The leader of the group has taken illegal actions for many years that have resulted in the death of innocent people. This book dragged on too long but it was an interesting plot. I rate this a 4.5.
July 27, 2019
Women-helpless innocent and dependent....not! Strong female characters tell a story that rivals any
mystery series. Read it on pins and needles, not knowing where the plot would lead and who could be trusted.
mystery series. Read it on pins and needles, not knowing where the plot would lead and who could be trusted.
June 16, 2020
Great police thriller
This book kept you on your toes until the end. The deciept and cover ups were really thought out. Loved that the bad guys got what was coming to main at r end
This book kept you on your toes until the end. The deciept and cover ups were really thought out. Loved that the bad guys got what was coming to main at r end
December 26, 2020
very good
for the most part, I really enjoyed this first book in the series. However, there were times where it was a little slow. Otherwise, I found it very enjoyable, suspenseful, and you will too! I am greatly anticipating, and anxious to read the second book.
for the most part, I really enjoyed this first book in the series. However, there were times where it was a little slow. Otherwise, I found it very enjoyable, suspenseful, and you will too! I am greatly anticipating, and anxious to read the second book.
May 3, 2021
Close 2 a 4 star rating
Parts of it was far fetched 4 me.The confession at the end-too easy. liked the whole vigilante spin but then it went overboard with the greed 4 money. I could see this as a Lifetime movie.
Parts of it was far fetched 4 me.The confession at the end-too easy. liked the whole vigilante spin but then it went overboard with the greed 4 money. I could see this as a Lifetime movie.
January 22, 2022
It's hard to tell fact from fiction
The Advocate is a great story and I really enjoyed reading it. It could be anno expose on any newspaper or a TV show. All I want to know now is why Maloney said that Palmer is a man.
The Advocate is a great story and I really enjoyed reading it. It could be anno expose on any newspaper or a TV show. All I want to know now is why Maloney said that Palmer is a man.
December 17, 2022
Wow what a book
From the beginning the author has you in her grasp as you become Palmer looking at the clues and seeking vindication for the wrong done to her as a child. Thanks for the ride. It has been thrilling and breath taking!
From the beginning the author has you in her grasp as you become Palmer looking at the clues and seeking vindication for the wrong done to her as a child. Thanks for the ride. It has been thrilling and breath taking!
July 5, 2018
Who will she trust
The author does a good job of getting you wrapped up in the heroine 's character. You are thumbing pages as fast as you can to see what she will do next.
The author does a good job of getting you wrapped up in the heroine 's character. You are thumbing pages as fast as you can to see what she will do next.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews