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Detective Mackenzie Price #3
Little Boy Lost
The clear sky burst into flames of peach and gold, illuminating the small body leaning against the rocks. He looked even smaller than he had in the photos, purple marks blemishing his neck. His eyes were open, staring ahead at the vastness of the still water.
When three nine-year-old boys go missing on a field trip to Lakemore’s annual spring festival, panic tears through the small town. Detective Mackenzie Price and her partner Nick Blackwood lead the search, but no trace of the boys is found—until one of them is found murdered, a note stuffed down his throat.
“Find Johnny’s killer, or they all die.”
Johnny was supposedly a victim of Jeremiah, a serial killer Nick helped put behind bars nearly a decade ago for the murder of ten young boys. But when Mack and Nick pay him a visit, he claims that he knows nothing—and that he remains innocent of Johnny’s murder.
Then a second boy is found, another clue left on his body, leaving just one left alive. Desperate to save the last boy’s life, Mackenzie and Nick comb over Jeremiah’s case, only to discover proof of a shocking cover-up—and a killer who will stop at nothing to right the wrongs of the past.
Packed full of shocking twists and nail-biting suspense, Little Boy Lost is a truly unputdownable crime thriller, perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Regan and Angela Marsons.
When three nine-year-old boys go missing on a field trip to Lakemore’s annual spring festival, panic tears through the small town. Detective Mackenzie Price and her partner Nick Blackwood lead the search, but no trace of the boys is found—until one of them is found murdered, a note stuffed down his throat.
“Find Johnny’s killer, or they all die.”
Johnny was supposedly a victim of Jeremiah, a serial killer Nick helped put behind bars nearly a decade ago for the murder of ten young boys. But when Mack and Nick pay him a visit, he claims that he knows nothing—and that he remains innocent of Johnny’s murder.
Then a second boy is found, another clue left on his body, leaving just one left alive. Desperate to save the last boy’s life, Mackenzie and Nick comb over Jeremiah’s case, only to discover proof of a shocking cover-up—and a killer who will stop at nothing to right the wrongs of the past.
Packed full of shocking twists and nail-biting suspense, Little Boy Lost is a truly unputdownable crime thriller, perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Regan and Angela Marsons.
374 pages, Paperback
First published May 6, 2021
705 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 11, 2021
Lakemore’s annual spring festival was crowded with people looking for a day in the sunshine; the crowd included a class of nine-year-old school children and before the day was half over, three of those children had vanished. Lucas, Noah and Theo had all disappeared and it was up to Detective Mackenzie Price and partner Detective Nick Blackwood to lead the team to find the kids before it was too late. But Nick could see the similarities to a case many years prior, a case where the brutal serial killer was serving time in jail. When the first boy was found, his body had a message for the police.
As Mack and Nick searched for answers, they investigated the death of one of the boys the serial killer was convicted of murdering. When they unearthed signs of a huge cover up, they were horrified – how had the police got it so wrong? But was that really the case? Or was it something much worse? And who was behind the disappearance of the three boys? Lakemore PD were determined to find the answers – but they were running on fumes…
Little Boy Lost is the 3rd in the Detective Mackenzie Price series by Ruhi Choudhary and I loved it! Mack is still conflicted and haunted by her past, a past she refuses to share. And a killing which happened in the previous book needs to be solved; but will it give Mack peace? The characters are well written, there are plenty of twists and turns; characters who look the part of the criminal – but then they don’t! I think perhaps this one is the best in the series so far, in my opinion. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
As Mack and Nick searched for answers, they investigated the death of one of the boys the serial killer was convicted of murdering. When they unearthed signs of a huge cover up, they were horrified – how had the police got it so wrong? But was that really the case? Or was it something much worse? And who was behind the disappearance of the three boys? Lakemore PD were determined to find the answers – but they were running on fumes…
Little Boy Lost is the 3rd in the Detective Mackenzie Price series by Ruhi Choudhary and I loved it! Mack is still conflicted and haunted by her past, a past she refuses to share. And a killing which happened in the previous book needs to be solved; but will it give Mack peace? The characters are well written, there are plenty of twists and turns; characters who look the part of the criminal – but then they don’t! I think perhaps this one is the best in the series so far, in my opinion. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2021
Little Boy Lost is the third instalment in the Detective Mackenzie ”Mack” Price series, set in Lakemore, Washington. The prologue opens with Mack and colleague and partner Detective Nick Blackwood driving against the stormy night after informing her that her father, Charles Laurent, had been murdered. However, for two decades, owing to the fact that her mother, Melody, had claimed she killed Mack’s father in self-defence and then had asked her to help bury him all those years ago, her trust had been depleted. She had believed the self-defence theory as Charles was known to get drunk and abusive regularly and her mother had told her she had just snapped and couldn't take another beating. When she had turned up, Melody was covered in bruises and the body of a male lay on the floor; it was now unidentifiable due to the extensive injuries. But when Charles had turned up unannounced at her door a month ago she was gobsmacked. Now she had to see it to believe it having been told so many lies. She heads to where he was staying, Miller Lodge, and sure enough, he lay on the bed surrounded by police, forensic investigators and medical personnel. He had been shot in the head. Mack isn't best pleased that newly-arrived detective, Austin Kennedy from Port Angeles, was to take over her father’s murder case. She's deeply concerned that Austin’s eagerness to show his worth at his new job posting could mean he will dig deep into her family revealing devastating, long-held secrets from her past and shattering any semblance of normality from that moment on.
Just over two months later, Mack and Nick are called to investigate when three nine-year-old boys vanish on a field trip to the annual Lakemore Spring Festival. The disappearances of Lucas Williams, Theo Reynolds and Noah Kinsey bring back painful memories for the troubled town, namely of serial killer Jeremiah Wozniak who used the town as his hunting ground resulting in the murders of ten innocent boys a decade ago. The town panics when the body of one of the boys is recovered having been brutally murdered and within his oesophagus, they discover a slip of paper instructing them to look further into the death of Johnny Cooper, Wozniak's apparent last victim. It specifically tells them to find Johnny's killer or the other two boys will be slaughtered too and naturally Mack and Nick don't know what to think. Nick starts to unravel as he worries that maybe he missed something while first investigating Cooper’s killing. With Wozniak in jail since his gruesome spree eight years ago was he taunting them or was Cooper’s murder perpetrated by someone else despite the MO fitting perfectly? This is a riveting and compulsive procedural right from the off with the boys’ disappearances being the major plot point backed up by several interconnecting and equally enthralling subplots. It's detailed and executed superbly and there is never a moment where your interest wanes. Full of twists, turns and misdirection with plenty of action, drama and palpable tension, there's never a dull moment and a shock is delivered in every chapter. A scintillating, engrossing and fast-paced read.
Just over two months later, Mack and Nick are called to investigate when three nine-year-old boys vanish on a field trip to the annual Lakemore Spring Festival. The disappearances of Lucas Williams, Theo Reynolds and Noah Kinsey bring back painful memories for the troubled town, namely of serial killer Jeremiah Wozniak who used the town as his hunting ground resulting in the murders of ten innocent boys a decade ago. The town panics when the body of one of the boys is recovered having been brutally murdered and within his oesophagus, they discover a slip of paper instructing them to look further into the death of Johnny Cooper, Wozniak's apparent last victim. It specifically tells them to find Johnny's killer or the other two boys will be slaughtered too and naturally Mack and Nick don't know what to think. Nick starts to unravel as he worries that maybe he missed something while first investigating Cooper’s killing. With Wozniak in jail since his gruesome spree eight years ago was he taunting them or was Cooper’s murder perpetrated by someone else despite the MO fitting perfectly? This is a riveting and compulsive procedural right from the off with the boys’ disappearances being the major plot point backed up by several interconnecting and equally enthralling subplots. It's detailed and executed superbly and there is never a moment where your interest wanes. Full of twists, turns and misdirection with plenty of action, drama and palpable tension, there's never a dull moment and a shock is delivered in every chapter. A scintillating, engrossing and fast-paced read.
May 7, 2021
Little Boy Lost was a captivating thriller full of delicious little twists. In this third installment to the Mackenzie Price series we are brought back to the majestic scenery of Washington state. But evil abounds here as the disappearance of three 9 year old boys forces Nick to confront one of the most diabolical killers from his past. Did Nick make a mistake charging Jeremiah Wozniak with little Johnny's murder? Has a killer been walking amongst them all these years? He is certain beyond belief that Wozniak is a psychopath who will kill again if given the chance. But his soul wrestles with the fact that he might have let another killer go free. Meanwhile Mackenzie is dealing with skeletons from her own past. Her father's murder investigation has been reopened and a zealous cop is on the case. Will he uncover Mack's secret? Is Charles's killer after her too? Mackenzie does not know whether her need for self preservation will land her in harm's way. Does she reveal her truth and risk her reputation? Or does she guard her secret and risk her life?
Thrilling from start to finish! 5 bright shiny stars!
Thrilling from start to finish! 5 bright shiny stars!
March 20, 2022
My thanks to Ruhi Choudary, Bookoutre and Netgalley. I kinda love these books! I appreciate Ruhi's devious murders! But, I think I'm finally going to take a pass. I really like these main characters, but they need to figure out their shit! Mack and her lies are ridiculous! She was a kid. This was bound to drive me nuts from the start. I hate lies. I especially hate liars! Still, I am tired of those woods, and very tired of Homicide cops with Daddy issue's. I did love this book. The murder mystery is top notch! But, Mackenzie and her continuing drama, has turned it into a fucking soap opera.
April 5, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Little Boy Lost, the third novel to feature Detective Mackenzie Price of the Lakemore, Washington PD.
When three nine year old boys go missing on a trip to the spring fair the already troubled town of Lakemore panics. When one boy is found, killed in the same way as notorious serial killer, Jeremiah, killed his victims Mack and her partner, Nick, aren’t sure what to think, but the note in his throat telling them to look at the murder of Johnny Cooper, Jeremiah’s last victim, gives them a direction to head in.
I enjoyed Little Boy Lost, which is an engrossing tale of murder, full of twists and turns. It is told entirely from Maci’s point of view, so the reader knows what she knows and can investigate alongside her. It’s safe to say that I failed the test badly, so the reveals came as a surprise, not just the perpetrator but all the associated crimes they uncover and there are a few. I got one thing right, but not the motive and that’s not very good when Lakemore is apparently crime central.
I think the novel is very well plotted and conceived. There are surprises and developments in every chapter, so there is never a dull moment and I wanted to keep turning the pages to see what was coming next. I thought the ending was a little rushed with some serendipitous discoveries and I don’t know what to think about the motive. All I know is that it seems strange to me.
Woven through the novel is the ongoing thread about Mack’s past. I have read the previous novels so I’m not sure if a new reader will miss anything by skipping them, but I don’t think so as the history is well explained. This investigation provides the tension in the novel as she worries about where it’s going and what will be revealed.
I must admit that I don’t really like the characterisation in this series. It’s all a bit touchy-feely for me and I have no understanding of Mack and her mindset. If she weren’t a detective I would suspect her of being on the spectrum.
Little Boy Lost is a good read that I can recommend.
When three nine year old boys go missing on a trip to the spring fair the already troubled town of Lakemore panics. When one boy is found, killed in the same way as notorious serial killer, Jeremiah, killed his victims Mack and her partner, Nick, aren’t sure what to think, but the note in his throat telling them to look at the murder of Johnny Cooper, Jeremiah’s last victim, gives them a direction to head in.
I enjoyed Little Boy Lost, which is an engrossing tale of murder, full of twists and turns. It is told entirely from Maci’s point of view, so the reader knows what she knows and can investigate alongside her. It’s safe to say that I failed the test badly, so the reveals came as a surprise, not just the perpetrator but all the associated crimes they uncover and there are a few. I got one thing right, but not the motive and that’s not very good when Lakemore is apparently crime central.
I think the novel is very well plotted and conceived. There are surprises and developments in every chapter, so there is never a dull moment and I wanted to keep turning the pages to see what was coming next. I thought the ending was a little rushed with some serendipitous discoveries and I don’t know what to think about the motive. All I know is that it seems strange to me.
Woven through the novel is the ongoing thread about Mack’s past. I have read the previous novels so I’m not sure if a new reader will miss anything by skipping them, but I don’t think so as the history is well explained. This investigation provides the tension in the novel as she worries about where it’s going and what will be revealed.
I must admit that I don’t really like the characterisation in this series. It’s all a bit touchy-feely for me and I have no understanding of Mack and her mindset. If she weren’t a detective I would suspect her of being on the spectrum.
Little Boy Lost is a good read that I can recommend.
April 30, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Little Boy Lost' by Ruhi Choudhary.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ruhi Choudhary, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 6th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author and it is the third book in the 'Detective Mackenzie Price' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read the first book in the series 'Our Daughter's Bones' which I enjoyed and would recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. I am also a fan of Ruhi's previous book 'Our Daughter's Bones' and if this is half as good as that it is sure to be a great read. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Regan and Angela Marsons.' I am a huge fan of Karin , Angela and Lisa so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 73 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Lakemore, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist Detective Mackenzie Price. The benefits of third person perspective especially if omniscient are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'Little Boy Lost' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Ruhi discusses/includes child murder.
Wow, Wow just WOW!!! Ruhi you have absolutely smashed it yet again!! What another explosive book in an epic series!!!!
The whole thing was brilliantly written and filled with in depth vivid descriptions that put me right next to Mackenzie and I was just completely lost in the story. The title, synopsis and cover represented the storyline perfectly.
This book is the third book in the Detective Mackenzie Price series and it can be read as a standalone without any problems. Anything that gets brought up about previous cases is covered in just the right amount of information, not too much to bore readers who already know what happened and just the right amount for new readers.
The description was completely accurate saying it is perfect for fans of Karin Slaughters, Lisa Reagan and Angela Marsons. I would like to add that fans of C. L Taylor and Carol Wyer or any other amazing (and my top) authors will absolutely sink their teeth into this!!
The storyline itself had me hook, line and sinker from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat as well as up at night flipping through the pages that I just couldn't put down. I completely absorbed it in one sitting. Packed with suspense, secrets, crime, lies, secrets, friendship and the BIG BANG at the end. I thought I had my suspicions of who was up to what but I was proven wrong and damn lady I DID NOT EXPECT that nucleur ending!!! Where did that come from!!! Just mega wow!!! Completely left me speechless and sitting there with my mouth hanging open like a dog. Cliffhanger much!!! I could not compliment this book enough, it just had everything!!!
I absolutely loved meeting all the realistic characters again with all their big personalities, strengths and flaws. First time I "met" them I knew I was going to love the characters from the first page and I was 100% right. I thought Mackenzie was a fantastic, strong female lead, always a bonus having a female lead being one myself!! Nick was brilliant, a good friend to Mackenzie and with a kind heart. Sully makes me laugh with his new hobby every few hours but it is a nice unique trait about him. I absolutely love this team and they all worked well with their different personalities. I really cannot wait to read more about them. They were exactly what a good crime book needs, a mix of funny, serious and I just couldn't get enough of them.
Well done Ruhi on another massive success and I hope your busy writing your next book as I for one cannot wait. If not your book then I really hope your getting a movie produced of this fantastic series. People will love Mackenzie and Nick!!
Overall if you are looking for a heart racing, page turning psychological crime that will leave you shocked and demanding more this is the book for you.
One of my favourite quotes in this book is the following:
😂 "Sully put everything away. “My daughter told me to watch The Hunger Games. That Catpiss woman inspired me. I’m thinking of enrolling in archery classes.”“It’s Katniss,” Nick corrected."
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Crime fiction, psychological thriller, and Police procedural. amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, C. L Taylor, Karin Slaughter, Lisa Reagan, anyone who has read any of Ruhi's previous books in this series and well jist anyone who is looking for an epic read!!!
398 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LittleBoyLost #Bookouture #RuhiChoudhary #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RuhiChoudhary @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Little Boy Lost' by Ruhi Choudhary.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ruhi Choudhary, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 6th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author and it is the third book in the 'Detective Mackenzie Price' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read the first book in the series 'Our Daughter's Bones' which I enjoyed and would recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. I am also a fan of Ruhi's previous book 'Our Daughter's Bones' and if this is half as good as that it is sure to be a great read. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Regan and Angela Marsons.' I am a huge fan of Karin , Angela and Lisa so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 73 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Lakemore, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist Detective Mackenzie Price. The benefits of third person perspective especially if omniscient are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'Little Boy Lost' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Ruhi discusses/includes child murder.
Wow, Wow just WOW!!! Ruhi you have absolutely smashed it yet again!! What another explosive book in an epic series!!!!
The whole thing was brilliantly written and filled with in depth vivid descriptions that put me right next to Mackenzie and I was just completely lost in the story. The title, synopsis and cover represented the storyline perfectly.
This book is the third book in the Detective Mackenzie Price series and it can be read as a standalone without any problems. Anything that gets brought up about previous cases is covered in just the right amount of information, not too much to bore readers who already know what happened and just the right amount for new readers.
The description was completely accurate saying it is perfect for fans of Karin Slaughters, Lisa Reagan and Angela Marsons. I would like to add that fans of C. L Taylor and Carol Wyer or any other amazing (and my top) authors will absolutely sink their teeth into this!!
The storyline itself had me hook, line and sinker from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat as well as up at night flipping through the pages that I just couldn't put down. I completely absorbed it in one sitting. Packed with suspense, secrets, crime, lies, secrets, friendship and the BIG BANG at the end. I thought I had my suspicions of who was up to what but I was proven wrong and damn lady I DID NOT EXPECT that nucleur ending!!! Where did that come from!!! Just mega wow!!! Completely left me speechless and sitting there with my mouth hanging open like a dog. Cliffhanger much!!! I could not compliment this book enough, it just had everything!!!
I absolutely loved meeting all the realistic characters again with all their big personalities, strengths and flaws. First time I "met" them I knew I was going to love the characters from the first page and I was 100% right. I thought Mackenzie was a fantastic, strong female lead, always a bonus having a female lead being one myself!! Nick was brilliant, a good friend to Mackenzie and with a kind heart. Sully makes me laugh with his new hobby every few hours but it is a nice unique trait about him. I absolutely love this team and they all worked well with their different personalities. I really cannot wait to read more about them. They were exactly what a good crime book needs, a mix of funny, serious and I just couldn't get enough of them.
Well done Ruhi on another massive success and I hope your busy writing your next book as I for one cannot wait. If not your book then I really hope your getting a movie produced of this fantastic series. People will love Mackenzie and Nick!!
Overall if you are looking for a heart racing, page turning psychological crime that will leave you shocked and demanding more this is the book for you.
One of my favourite quotes in this book is the following:
😂 "Sully put everything away. “My daughter told me to watch The Hunger Games. That Catpiss woman inspired me. I’m thinking of enrolling in archery classes.”“It’s Katniss,” Nick corrected."
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Crime fiction, psychological thriller, and Police procedural. amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, C. L Taylor, Karin Slaughter, Lisa Reagan, anyone who has read any of Ruhi's previous books in this series and well jist anyone who is looking for an epic read!!!
398 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#LittleBoyLost #Bookouture #RuhiChoudhary #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RuhiChoudhary @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
May 10, 2021
Little Boy Lost is the third instalment in the Detective Mackenzie ”Mack” Price series, set in Lakemore, Washington. The actual crimes in the book are self-contained, but I recommend you read these books in order as there is a lot of character development and past events that you would miss. There are two storylines happening simultaneously. Mack's father was recently killed and what was originally ruled a robbery is not being investigated as something else. Mack seems to be a suspect even though she thought her had died twenty years ago and only recently knew he was alive in the last few months. There are a lot of secrets involving this plotline that are uncovered as the story progresses. The second situation involves three nine-year-old boys who disappear on a school fieldtrip. When the first one shows up dead with the same signature as a serial killer that Mack's partner, Detective Nick Blackwood arrested ten years earlier, it is intimated that Jeremiah did not kill the last victim, Johnny Cooper. Mack is directed to go over all the evidence from Johnny's death with a fine tooth comb and she uncovers some inconsistencies. Both of these situations take their toll on both Mack and Nick. Will they find the last two boys before another ends up dead? Will they figure out what happened to Charles Laurent?
This book has a lot going on, but Ruhi Choudhary does a great job of juggling these two plotlines into an excellent story. I really like Mack's character. She has some baggage that she has been dealing with for many years and they effect all her decisions. She is driven, smart and extremely observant which makes her good at her job. She and Nick are best friends and are able to work together and help each other when they are dealing with emotions and negative feelings. Nick is a separated dad who loves his daughter Luna. She is a sweetheart, although a bit sassy. I enjoyed her character as she brought some lightness into the story. Nick is a dedicated cop who puts too much pressure on himself, but fortunately, both Luna and Mack can help him not too spiral. The crimes/mysteries are very well written and easily pulled me into this story. The writing is engaging and easy to relate to. There were enough suspects and twists to keep me guessing right until the final reveal, I mean literal reveal when the mask is pulled off. It all fit well together and was believable, although a bit crazy. There is a lot of action, drama and tension, and there's never a dull moment. For a small town, there sure is a lot of darkness, corruption and crazy happening. If you enjoy a good police procedural, with some twists, then this series is definitely for you. I recommend the Detective Mackenzie Price series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and ideas shared are my own.
This book has a lot going on, but Ruhi Choudhary does a great job of juggling these two plotlines into an excellent story. I really like Mack's character. She has some baggage that she has been dealing with for many years and they effect all her decisions. She is driven, smart and extremely observant which makes her good at her job. She and Nick are best friends and are able to work together and help each other when they are dealing with emotions and negative feelings. Nick is a separated dad who loves his daughter Luna. She is a sweetheart, although a bit sassy. I enjoyed her character as she brought some lightness into the story. Nick is a dedicated cop who puts too much pressure on himself, but fortunately, both Luna and Mack can help him not too spiral. The crimes/mysteries are very well written and easily pulled me into this story. The writing is engaging and easy to relate to. There were enough suspects and twists to keep me guessing right until the final reveal, I mean literal reveal when the mask is pulled off. It all fit well together and was believable, although a bit crazy. There is a lot of action, drama and tension, and there's never a dull moment. For a small town, there sure is a lot of darkness, corruption and crazy happening. If you enjoy a good police procedural, with some twists, then this series is definitely for you. I recommend the Detective Mackenzie Price series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and ideas shared are my own.
April 16, 2021
Oh what a tangled web. Can be read as a stand alone. MacKenzie is all too human, still holding the secret from her youth while doing the best she can to be a good Detective. Twisted tale, surprises along the way and heart wrenching emotion with the lost boys. The very end (before the epilogue) was a tad confusing when the tale comes out. I was not surprised with who shares the tale, but I did get a lost, had to reread who was who again. Buckle up, put your hat on and see if you can solve the mystery, but be on guard for the suspense and twists. Thank you Bookouture for allowing me the arc through NetGalley. I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions.
August 2, 2024
this series is getting better with each book, i didn’t expect the first twist but the second one i wasn’t surprised as i was suspicious about the character
my only gripe is mackenzie needs to give herself a break, she keeps beating herself up over something that happened when she’s 12 so i was glad at the end of this it seemed like she was finally moving on from it
my only gripe is mackenzie needs to give herself a break, she keeps beating herself up over something that happened when she’s 12 so i was glad at the end of this it seemed like she was finally moving on from it
August 22, 2022
I LOVE THIS SERIES!!!! another twisty and action packed book!!! i love mackenzie price and her team!!!💙💙💙 looking forward to seeing what’s next for them!!!
December 26, 2021
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Little Boy Lost is the third tense installment in the Detective Mackenzie Price series. There will be spoilers below for the first two books. If you’re just getting into the series, read my review of the first book, Our Daughter’s Bones here.
I happily returned to Mack’s bleak world, and the ever-depressing and crime ridden town of Lakemore. One thing I appreciate about Choudhary’s writing is her commitment to character development, and there’s a lot on show here from the first pages. There’s also the perfect balance of reintroduction to the story and the weaving of new threads.
As I mentioned in my review of book two, I’m fully on board the Mack/Nick ship, and there are tantalising hints of their deepening relationship. Choudhary’s depiction of a deep friendship forged under pressure is spot on, and feels very true to life. Mack is also coming to terms with divorcing her husband, and the insight into her mix of relief, victory, loneliness, and acceptance is impactful. I appreciated the stark contrast between Mack’s full working life and literally empty home.
There were a few points throughout where I felt Mack acted out of character, and it was hard to parse whether this was ‘out of character is serious business’ or for plot convenience, but I give Choudary the benefit of the doubt. Less believable was the portrayal of a pastor, who at one point has a maniacal religious outburst. There are scenarios in which this kind of writing is entirely appropriate (see Midsomer Murders), but a gritty crime thriller is not one of them.
The plot was as dark and intriguing as I expect from the series, this time centering on a past case of Nick’s. This allows for a greater exploration of his character, as well as upping the stakes. I found the resolution of the major mystery a little underwhelming due to too many plot strands. The plot points kept getting jumbled in my brain, which probably says as much about my brain as it does the cohesion of the novel.
The progression of the Mack, Nick and Lakemore plots were satisfying and well delivered. This was gratifying, as for me these are the storylines that bring me back to the series for each installment.
I rated Little Boy Lost 4 stars and would recommend it to fans of procedural crime thrillers, especially if you like an excellent female lead. Content warnings for: (Graphic) Child death, Death, Grief, and Murder, (Moderate) Blood. Suitable for 16+. I’m grateful to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a review.
Little Boy Lost is the third tense installment in the Detective Mackenzie Price series. There will be spoilers below for the first two books. If you’re just getting into the series, read my review of the first book, Our Daughter’s Bones here.
I happily returned to Mack’s bleak world, and the ever-depressing and crime ridden town of Lakemore. One thing I appreciate about Choudhary’s writing is her commitment to character development, and there’s a lot on show here from the first pages. There’s also the perfect balance of reintroduction to the story and the weaving of new threads.
As I mentioned in my review of book two, I’m fully on board the Mack/Nick ship, and there are tantalising hints of their deepening relationship. Choudhary’s depiction of a deep friendship forged under pressure is spot on, and feels very true to life. Mack is also coming to terms with divorcing her husband, and the insight into her mix of relief, victory, loneliness, and acceptance is impactful. I appreciated the stark contrast between Mack’s full working life and literally empty home.
There were a few points throughout where I felt Mack acted out of character, and it was hard to parse whether this was ‘out of character is serious business’ or for plot convenience, but I give Choudary the benefit of the doubt. Less believable was the portrayal of a pastor, who at one point has a maniacal religious outburst. There are scenarios in which this kind of writing is entirely appropriate (see Midsomer Murders), but a gritty crime thriller is not one of them.
The plot was as dark and intriguing as I expect from the series, this time centering on a past case of Nick’s. This allows for a greater exploration of his character, as well as upping the stakes. I found the resolution of the major mystery a little underwhelming due to too many plot strands. The plot points kept getting jumbled in my brain, which probably says as much about my brain as it does the cohesion of the novel.
The progression of the Mack, Nick and Lakemore plots were satisfying and well delivered. This was gratifying, as for me these are the storylines that bring me back to the series for each installment.
I rated Little Boy Lost 4 stars and would recommend it to fans of procedural crime thrillers, especially if you like an excellent female lead. Content warnings for: (Graphic) Child death, Death, Grief, and Murder, (Moderate) Blood. Suitable for 16+. I’m grateful to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a review.
May 6, 2021
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Bookouture for my copy of this book via Netgalley and for letting me take part in this tour. I really enjoyed the first two books in this series and I knew I just had to read the next book.
This book like the first two is two-fold. You have the case of the missing boys and you have the case of Mack's dad, Charles. If you have read the first two books then you will know all the ins and outs of Mack's personal life. If you haven't there is enough information provided in this book that you can still feel invested.
The case of the missing boys is truly horrific. I cannot imagine what it is like to live in a small town where you are scared to send your children to school. It's so sad. Children should be safe at school. It just breaks my heart that it happened not once but twice in Lakemore. I felt for the parents, the police for the whole town.
Mack and her partner Nick are the lead on this case but they have a lot of help from the rest of the detectives. I really like the whole team. They are hard-working and strive for justice. That might seem obvious but politics takes over so much it can blur the lines for some.
Ruhi kept me on the edge of my seat and up way past my bedtime reading this book. I had to find out what happened to those poor boys. Mack's past really comes to haunt her in this book and I was just as gripped by that story as I was by the missing boys.
Ruhi is fantastic at keeping you hooked to the very last page and I can't wait to see what she brings in her next book.
This book like the first two is two-fold. You have the case of the missing boys and you have the case of Mack's dad, Charles. If you have read the first two books then you will know all the ins and outs of Mack's personal life. If you haven't there is enough information provided in this book that you can still feel invested.
The case of the missing boys is truly horrific. I cannot imagine what it is like to live in a small town where you are scared to send your children to school. It's so sad. Children should be safe at school. It just breaks my heart that it happened not once but twice in Lakemore. I felt for the parents, the police for the whole town.
Mack and her partner Nick are the lead on this case but they have a lot of help from the rest of the detectives. I really like the whole team. They are hard-working and strive for justice. That might seem obvious but politics takes over so much it can blur the lines for some.
Ruhi kept me on the edge of my seat and up way past my bedtime reading this book. I had to find out what happened to those poor boys. Mack's past really comes to haunt her in this book and I was just as gripped by that story as I was by the missing boys.
Ruhi is fantastic at keeping you hooked to the very last page and I can't wait to see what she brings in her next book.
April 24, 2021
This is the third in the Detective Mackenzie Price series. Three boys disappear during Lakemore's Spring Festival. Soon after, one is discovered murdered, a slip of paper in his oesophagus instructing the police to find Johnny Cooper's killer or the other two will be killed.. Johnny Cooper's murder has been blamed on serial child killer Jeremiah Wozniack, who is currently in jail. Eight years ago, the case was the first Nick Blackwood investigated on his arrival in Lakemore.. Johnny's decomposed body was discovered after Wozniak was jailed, and as the MO fitted, it was assumed he was another of his victims. Now someone is saying he wasn't, and the lives of two nine year old boys hang in the balance.
At the same time Mackenzie's father Charles, who turned up on her doorstep at the end of the last book, has been murdered. A newly-arrived detective is investigating. Mackenzie's worst fear, that he may discover things she would rather stay buried, follow her through this story as she works with Nick to try to locate the boys' abductor before another child dies.. At the same time, they begin to take another look at events surrounding Johnny's death.. Was Wozniak really the murderer or could they be looking for someone entirely different?
It's an edge of your seat read with the two investigations running parallel to each other.. Both Mack and Nick have to deal with their own ghosts from the past while trying to stay focussed in the present. There are twists and turns aplenty, false leads and so many characters who have motive.. The ending for both cases came as a complete surprise. Another thrilling five star read from Ruhi Choudhary.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of Little Boy Lost in exchange for an honest review.
At the same time Mackenzie's father Charles, who turned up on her doorstep at the end of the last book, has been murdered. A newly-arrived detective is investigating. Mackenzie's worst fear, that he may discover things she would rather stay buried, follow her through this story as she works with Nick to try to locate the boys' abductor before another child dies.. At the same time, they begin to take another look at events surrounding Johnny's death.. Was Wozniak really the murderer or could they be looking for someone entirely different?
It's an edge of your seat read with the two investigations running parallel to each other.. Both Mack and Nick have to deal with their own ghosts from the past while trying to stay focussed in the present. There are twists and turns aplenty, false leads and so many characters who have motive.. The ending for both cases came as a complete surprise. Another thrilling five star read from Ruhi Choudhary.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for an ARC of Little Boy Lost in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2021
It is time for the annual spring festival in Lakemore with families and kids on class trips all congregating and looking forward to a fun time outside after the restrictions of winter. When three nine-year-old boys go missing while under their teacher's care enjoyment turns to fear and everyone recalls how Lakemore was home to the serial killer, Jeremiah, who murdered ten young boys a decade earlier.
Detectives Mackenzie 'Mack' Price and Nick Blackwood are assigned the case but when evidence is recovered linking the disappearances to the Jeremiah investigation Nick finds his life unravelling. Facing the fact that he might have missed something vital in his first case as lead detective he is determined nothing will get past him this time whatever the cost.
Worried about Nick and trying to keep him from self destructing isn't easy especially as Mack has her own demons to face following her father’s recent unsolved murder. With a new and eager detective determined to find the killer Mack fears it's only a matter of time before her secrets are revealed and life as she knows and enjoys it ceases to exist.
This is the third in Ruhi Choudhary's ever improving series and is definitely the most enjoyable so far. The main investigation is detailed and not easily solved while the journey into Mack's past makes for an excellent second thread throughout. The scene is set for another book to follow which I will definitely be on the look out for.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is an excellent addition to this series.
Detectives Mackenzie 'Mack' Price and Nick Blackwood are assigned the case but when evidence is recovered linking the disappearances to the Jeremiah investigation Nick finds his life unravelling. Facing the fact that he might have missed something vital in his first case as lead detective he is determined nothing will get past him this time whatever the cost.
Worried about Nick and trying to keep him from self destructing isn't easy especially as Mack has her own demons to face following her father’s recent unsolved murder. With a new and eager detective determined to find the killer Mack fears it's only a matter of time before her secrets are revealed and life as she knows and enjoys it ceases to exist.
This is the third in Ruhi Choudhary's ever improving series and is definitely the most enjoyable so far. The main investigation is detailed and not easily solved while the journey into Mack's past makes for an excellent second thread throughout. The scene is set for another book to follow which I will definitely be on the look out for.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is an excellent addition to this series.
May 7, 2021
Little Boy Lost by Ruhi Choudhary is a police procedural, primarily driven by damaged cops. Mackenzie Price is quite a good detective, if it were not for her guilty conscience about something that had happened when she was 12 and helped her mother bury a man in the woods. Her partner, Nick, was haunted by the deaths of 11 boys some years back. He had solved the crime, but he had not done it soon enough to stop the killings. Now they were faced with three crimes: three boys had been snatched from a community fair, one was already dead; one of the eleven had apparently been killed by someone other than the other ten; and the man Mackenzie thought had been her father that died, had returned, then been shot. Quite a bit on their plates.
Nick was a divorced father and the one thing that could make his day was a visit with Luna, his eight-year-old daughter. This was a fact Mackenzie used to his benefit. They were friends, had been since they'd been partners. That friendship was fraying now with the stress. There was a new detective assigned to Charles. Mack's father's death, and he was digging. He seemed to think she had done it. She hadn't, but she knew she had a secret. They followed clues, they questioned people, they looked everywhere there was to look, and still...nothing. Everyone was on edge. There were so many secrets, not just Mack's. It was a race against the clock. They didn't know if they could beat the clock and it was killing them...almost did. What a good book, although it's not fun reading about murdered children. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Little Boy Lost by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #littleboylost
Nick was a divorced father and the one thing that could make his day was a visit with Luna, his eight-year-old daughter. This was a fact Mackenzie used to his benefit. They were friends, had been since they'd been partners. That friendship was fraying now with the stress. There was a new detective assigned to Charles. Mack's father's death, and he was digging. He seemed to think she had done it. She hadn't, but she knew she had a secret. They followed clues, they questioned people, they looked everywhere there was to look, and still...nothing. Everyone was on edge. There were so many secrets, not just Mack's. It was a race against the clock. They didn't know if they could beat the clock and it was killing them...almost did. What a good book, although it's not fun reading about murdered children. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Little Boy Lost by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #littleboylost
April 27, 2021
Gosh....what a roller coaster ride with this one!!! Ruhi did it once again with the third book of Detective Mackenzie Price series, Little Boy Lost. When Charles was murdered, a new detective was assigned to solve the case. Then three little boys were lost in the woods and one of the boys' bodies, Lucas was found dead...with his tongue cut off. This case was eerily same to another case, solved by Mackenzie's partner, Nick, but the person is already behind the bars. Is it a copycat murder or something else?
It feels like a cat and mouse chase game when reading this one. So many suspects that you have no idea who is the real culprit behind the murders. The author does a good job, keeping the reader hooked into the story hence the reader's mind is muddled and couldn't wait till the end to find who the real villain in the story. The emotions Mackenzie is going through particularly when the new detective, Austin is digging most of her past family's history is interesting and intriguing. A fast paced thriller with unexpected twists and turns that will hook you into the story from the beginning to the end. The ending, was a bit unexpected, including the part where who the real villain was actually!
Overall, I enjoyed reading Ruhi Chaudary's books and cannot wait for the fourth book of the series to come out soon! Mackenzie Price has become one of my courageous and favorite characters! Worth five stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
It feels like a cat and mouse chase game when reading this one. So many suspects that you have no idea who is the real culprit behind the murders. The author does a good job, keeping the reader hooked into the story hence the reader's mind is muddled and couldn't wait till the end to find who the real villain in the story. The emotions Mackenzie is going through particularly when the new detective, Austin is digging most of her past family's history is interesting and intriguing. A fast paced thriller with unexpected twists and turns that will hook you into the story from the beginning to the end. The ending, was a bit unexpected, including the part where who the real villain was actually!
Overall, I enjoyed reading Ruhi Chaudary's books and cannot wait for the fourth book of the series to come out soon! Mackenzie Price has become one of my courageous and favorite characters! Worth five stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
May 6, 2021
This was also one of those books I was looking forward to. The cases Detectives Nick Blackwood and Mackenzie Price had to deal with in the previous two books were very thrilling, but what captivated me maybe even more was Mackenzie’s back story. It was intriguing, fascinating and complicated and I loved it. Now it was time to sit down and find out what was going to be discovered next and of course with cases they were going to have to solve.
Lakemore is only a small village, but killers seem to like it there. You wonder why they just don’t give up? Are they really convinced they can outsmart our fantastic duo? They should better think again.
Some killers deny everything even though there are tons of evidence against them, but maybe they sometimes tell the truth when they say they had nothing to do with that specific one? What do you do when you are the arresting police officer? Do you believe them and dig deeper or do you let go and maybe leave a killer off the hook?
Time goes by and it seems like someone was very busy planning and preparing thoroughly, the annual spring festival appearing to be the prefect place to strike and set the wheels in motion.
OMG never a dull moment with this book, I can tell you that! I enjoyed every bit of it and I was very sad to say goodbye to Nick and Mack for now, but I do understand they more than deserve a bit of rest after what they went through. I am counting the days until I meet them again, refreshed and ready for action once again. 5 stars
Thank you, Ruhi Choudhary and Bookouture.
Lakemore is only a small village, but killers seem to like it there. You wonder why they just don’t give up? Are they really convinced they can outsmart our fantastic duo? They should better think again.
Some killers deny everything even though there are tons of evidence against them, but maybe they sometimes tell the truth when they say they had nothing to do with that specific one? What do you do when you are the arresting police officer? Do you believe them and dig deeper or do you let go and maybe leave a killer off the hook?
Time goes by and it seems like someone was very busy planning and preparing thoroughly, the annual spring festival appearing to be the prefect place to strike and set the wheels in motion.
OMG never a dull moment with this book, I can tell you that! I enjoyed every bit of it and I was very sad to say goodbye to Nick and Mack for now, but I do understand they more than deserve a bit of rest after what they went through. I am counting the days until I meet them again, refreshed and ready for action once again. 5 stars
Thank you, Ruhi Choudhary and Bookouture.
May 8, 2021
This is my first novel by Ruhi Choudhary and also my first introduction to Det. Mackenzie Price and her series of books. I do generally enjoy detective thrillers and was glad to be given the chance to get into the world of another one (though I usually much prefer to start at book #1!)
The storyline is an attention grabbing one - three young boys disappear on a school trip in the town and Det. Price and her partner and under huge pressure to find them before anything happens them; making it all the worse, the disappearances seem to be connected to a series of killings from years ago but the guy responsible for those horrendous murders is very much locked up in jail...
There is a lot of turmoil on the part of the detectives as well the families involved and we also delve into the background of our main characters which adds another layer of interest.
I did enjoy this book. "Mack" is a likable if troubled protagonist and there is definitely tension in key scenes but on the flip side I didn't adore it - maybe because I haven't read the other books (though this works fine as a standalone in general) and there was a lot of reference to past cases and lives or because there were one or two parts that were just a Little too much of a stretch. Would I go back to read the previous two? Not sure. Would I pick up #4? Possibly!
Thanks to Netgalley and publishers for the opportunity to read this title in exchange for an honest review.
(if I could give it an additional half star I would)
The storyline is an attention grabbing one - three young boys disappear on a school trip in the town and Det. Price and her partner and under huge pressure to find them before anything happens them; making it all the worse, the disappearances seem to be connected to a series of killings from years ago but the guy responsible for those horrendous murders is very much locked up in jail...
There is a lot of turmoil on the part of the detectives as well the families involved and we also delve into the background of our main characters which adds another layer of interest.
I did enjoy this book. "Mack" is a likable if troubled protagonist and there is definitely tension in key scenes but on the flip side I didn't adore it - maybe because I haven't read the other books (though this works fine as a standalone in general) and there was a lot of reference to past cases and lives or because there were one or two parts that were just a Little too much of a stretch. Would I go back to read the previous two? Not sure. Would I pick up #4? Possibly!
Thanks to Netgalley and publishers for the opportunity to read this title in exchange for an honest review.
(if I could give it an additional half star I would)
May 21, 2021
TRIGGER WARNING : this book contains child murder
Three boys disappear on a school trip. One boy is found dead shortly afterwards with a warning that the other boys will die too if Johnny's killer isn't found. Except Johnny's killer was convicted serial killer and has been in prison for the last eight years. Has there been a mistake and can Mad Mack find the two boys alive...?
Little Boy Lost is the third book to feature Mackenzie Price. There are no spoilers about the previous cases. However, the tangled personal experiences of Mack have evolved over the series so I think it would be beneficial to read the books in order to see the progression of her circumstances develop.
The disappearance of three children is highly emotive and when the first body is discovered, the book takes an upsetting direction. The author does not shy away from the forensic detail nor the devastation of the parents. The tension for the police team and the other frantic parents feels authentic, and as a mum myself it was difficult but compelling to read.
Mack and her partner Nick have the difficult task of investigating the current case as well as looking at the apparently solved case of Johnny's murder. Nick feels intensely guilty as he was in charge of the case so believes he is responsible for the actions of the killer. Meanwhile Mack is a little distracted by the complications in her family life and the recent murder of her father.
Little Boy Lost is an upsetting but captivating novel with a strong plot, plenty of action, and a wonderfully complex lead detective
Three boys disappear on a school trip. One boy is found dead shortly afterwards with a warning that the other boys will die too if Johnny's killer isn't found. Except Johnny's killer was convicted serial killer and has been in prison for the last eight years. Has there been a mistake and can Mad Mack find the two boys alive...?
Little Boy Lost is the third book to feature Mackenzie Price. There are no spoilers about the previous cases. However, the tangled personal experiences of Mack have evolved over the series so I think it would be beneficial to read the books in order to see the progression of her circumstances develop.
The disappearance of three children is highly emotive and when the first body is discovered, the book takes an upsetting direction. The author does not shy away from the forensic detail nor the devastation of the parents. The tension for the police team and the other frantic parents feels authentic, and as a mum myself it was difficult but compelling to read.
Mack and her partner Nick have the difficult task of investigating the current case as well as looking at the apparently solved case of Johnny's murder. Nick feels intensely guilty as he was in charge of the case so believes he is responsible for the actions of the killer. Meanwhile Mack is a little distracted by the complications in her family life and the recent murder of her father.
Little Boy Lost is an upsetting but captivating novel with a strong plot, plenty of action, and a wonderfully complex lead detective
April 27, 2023
In some respects this book fully lived up to its billing. I loved Mack Price, the main protagonist, and even though it's part of a series, can be read on its own since there are enough references to the two preceding books to maintain continuity. The author was great at keeping the reader guessing on whodunnit and had all kinds of plot twists and surprises, even up to the very end. She seems to have done her homework on standard police operations. I also like a flawed hero or heroine like Mack Price or Lottie Parker (another of my favorites), not a Mary Poppins-like character who's just about perfect in every way, with nary a hair out of place, and who never makes a mistake. What kept me from giving this novel a five star rating was the editing, or lack thereof. There were numerous word omissions, awkward phraseology and grammatical gaffes throughout that detracted from the narrative and at times made me feel I was reading something a college sophomore, long on enthusiasm but short on basic composition courses, had written. For instance, the past tense of the verb "grind" is "ground", not "grinded," one of the more egregious goofs in the narrative. A good editor would catch this type of error and ensure that the end product was more polished and professional without ruining the author's natural writing style. I would recommend Little Boy Lost but with a caveat about the subpar editing.
May 8, 2021
There are times when you read a couple of books by an author, you love them and then you read the next one and your interest wanes. You know the feeling, right? Well, that’s certainly not the feeling I got from reading the third book in the Detective Mackenzie Price series! If anything, I’m drawn into wanting to read more and will certainly be waiting for Book #4!
This story kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting a resolution to it and hoping that all was not lost. It was full of emotion. Macknezie’s partner, Nick Blackwood deals with guilt and confusion as the latest case of missing boys seems to be linked to an old case, his first, in which he got the perpetrator convicted. Mack too is dealing with fear and grief as an outside cop, Austin, is assigned to her father’s murder case and there seems to be someone trailing and threatening her. But telling this even to Nick, might make her spill the beans on how she, as a child, covered for her mother killing a man.
As Mack and Nick race against time to solve these crimes, there’s also a lot of pressure being exerted on the Police Department which is being seen as corrupt. The detectives keep coming up with different suspects and the mystery gets deeper and deeper. Will they be able to save the little boy and catch the culprit? Great suspense and an ending I didn’t expect.
This story kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting a resolution to it and hoping that all was not lost. It was full of emotion. Macknezie’s partner, Nick Blackwood deals with guilt and confusion as the latest case of missing boys seems to be linked to an old case, his first, in which he got the perpetrator convicted. Mack too is dealing with fear and grief as an outside cop, Austin, is assigned to her father’s murder case and there seems to be someone trailing and threatening her. But telling this even to Nick, might make her spill the beans on how she, as a child, covered for her mother killing a man.
As Mack and Nick race against time to solve these crimes, there’s also a lot of pressure being exerted on the Police Department which is being seen as corrupt. The detectives keep coming up with different suspects and the mystery gets deeper and deeper. Will they be able to save the little boy and catch the culprit? Great suspense and an ending I didn’t expect.
May 11, 2021
“I’m just playing devil’s advocate. Someone has to. Truth could be about perspective.”
Years ago, Jeremiah Wozniak causes havoc in Lakemore after murdering eleven children. Years later, three children go missing and one is found dead, strangled with his tongue cut off: Wozniak's Modus Operandi. But Wozniak is in prison! Now the new, deranged killer insists Wozniak wasn't the murderer of the eleventh child and challenges the force. Find the real killer --- or two more boys' lives is snuffed out.
The first thing I noticed in Little Boy Lost is the imagery. Visual, auditory, kinesthetic --- you name it. Ruhi Choudhary hooks us with how vividly she describes scenes from first page to last.
Characters' relationships are a vital part of the story. Ruhi wisely develops the connections between her characters in aid of the plot. As we go along we are particularly exposed to the ups and downs between Nick and Mackenzie. How Mack strives to adjust and change for her friend (...or is it “friend”?) and how Nick reacts to these acts and more. It's a picture of the quote “no man is an island”. Perfect for people trying to open up more and change for the better (such as myself).
The plot is twisted and complex. We see lots of shocking revelations all throughout the series, thus this book.
Years ago, Jeremiah Wozniak causes havoc in Lakemore after murdering eleven children. Years later, three children go missing and one is found dead, strangled with his tongue cut off: Wozniak's Modus Operandi. But Wozniak is in prison! Now the new, deranged killer insists Wozniak wasn't the murderer of the eleventh child and challenges the force. Find the real killer --- or two more boys' lives is snuffed out.
The first thing I noticed in Little Boy Lost is the imagery. Visual, auditory, kinesthetic --- you name it. Ruhi Choudhary hooks us with how vividly she describes scenes from first page to last.
Characters' relationships are a vital part of the story. Ruhi wisely develops the connections between her characters in aid of the plot. As we go along we are particularly exposed to the ups and downs between Nick and Mackenzie. How Mack strives to adjust and change for her friend (...or is it “friend”?) and how Nick reacts to these acts and more. It's a picture of the quote “no man is an island”. Perfect for people trying to open up more and change for the better (such as myself).
The plot is twisted and complex. We see lots of shocking revelations all throughout the series, thus this book.
April 19, 2021
This was was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When 3 boys go missing during a field trip, evidence leads Detectives Mackenzie Price and Nick Blackwood to re-investigate a murder from years ago everyone thought was solved.
In the meantime, a new detective comes to town and starts investigating the murder of Mackenzie's father. This book did not end on a cliffhanger like the previous two. Although I didn't mind the cliffhangers, it was nice to have closure on a part of the storyline. That's not to say it won't come back around a few books down the line. Throughout the book I was worried for the safety of the children. Didn't guess who was behind the abductions and why. And the ending was heart pounding. I would recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Ruhi Choudhary.
When 3 boys go missing during a field trip, evidence leads Detectives Mackenzie Price and Nick Blackwood to re-investigate a murder from years ago everyone thought was solved.
In the meantime, a new detective comes to town and starts investigating the murder of Mackenzie's father. This book did not end on a cliffhanger like the previous two. Although I didn't mind the cliffhangers, it was nice to have closure on a part of the storyline. That's not to say it won't come back around a few books down the line. Throughout the book I was worried for the safety of the children. Didn't guess who was behind the abductions and why. And the ending was heart pounding. I would recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Ruhi Choudhary.
August 3, 2021
Three little boys go missing on a school trip. Two of them turn up dead and the police get a message: Find the killer of Johnny! (Or the last boy will meet the same fate as his school friends) Problem is, there is already a man sitting in prison for the murder of Johnny.
There were a lot of suspects and a lot of people had done things worth punishing. But nobody had killed Johnny. When some paint led to a new lead and the real killer is revealed, it’s someone unexpected.
And then there is someone making threats to Mack's life. The past is catching up with her and it could be too late to make things right.
Fast paced with twists and turns and heart stopping moments.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture!
There were a lot of suspects and a lot of people had done things worth punishing. But nobody had killed Johnny. When some paint led to a new lead and the real killer is revealed, it’s someone unexpected.
And then there is someone making threats to Mack's life. The past is catching up with her and it could be too late to make things right.
Fast paced with twists and turns and heart stopping moments.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture!
September 4, 2025
Three little boys go missing from a spring festival during a class field trip. Mack Price and Nick Blackwood are the detectives assigned to the case. Then the first little boy is discovered in the woods,laid out on a rock. A note is found in his throat to ‘find Johnny’s murderer. Nick had captured the killer of little boys and he was accused of killing Johnny too. The killer plans to kill the other two boys if they don’t find Johnny’s killer. Mack’s father is killed too and a new detective is investigating it but he’s looking too closely at Mack. So while looking for the boys, Mack is also dealing with threats to herself. When the second boy is found near a lighthouse, Mack and Nick are desperate to find the last boy.
A town full of secrets. Suspense. Told in Mack’s point of view only. I’m almost used to it now.
A town full of secrets. Suspense. Told in Mack’s point of view only. I’m almost used to it now.
April 11, 2021
Little Boy Lost is an intense complicated mystery. Three boys disappear and two will die. Who is doing the killing? And why? Mack is worried about a dark secret from her own past coming to light. There were many angles to this story. I had a sense about two culprits, but nothing concrete. I do feel that some of the plot went on for a it too long, a bit too drawn out. I was still hooked, like a can of potato chips, I had to keep reading to consume it all. It’s a good tale with many variances and bone chilling details. An enthralling thriller for sure. Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
May 19, 2021
Wow this is a great read, and I am now hooked on this series. It is the first book I have read by Ruhi Choudhary but I can not wait to get stuck into the others.
I took to the main characters quickly and I was instantly thrown into their new case, which may be linked to an old solved crime. Is someone being a copycat or was the wrong person convicted. This is the dilemma facing the detectives.
I raced through as I tried to solve the mystery alongside Nick and Mackenzie, I really liked their relationship and how their personalities compliment each other. It was really interesting to see how they worked together and eventually get a result in the case.
Highly recommended.
I took to the main characters quickly and I was instantly thrown into their new case, which may be linked to an old solved crime. Is someone being a copycat or was the wrong person convicted. This is the dilemma facing the detectives.
I raced through as I tried to solve the mystery alongside Nick and Mackenzie, I really liked their relationship and how their personalities compliment each other. It was really interesting to see how they worked together and eventually get a result in the case.
Highly recommended.
June 21, 2022
Little boy lost by Ruhi Choudhary is the third book in this new brilliant new Detective Mackenzie Price of the Lakemore, Washington PD. series and I have really enjoyed this book. WoW what a brilliant first chapter this new book was!
WoW this is an excellent book with lots of great twists and turns throughout that will just have you drawn in to this new book by Ruhi.
I highly recommend this book and looking forward to the next book with in Detective Mackenzie Price series.
5 stars read.
Big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
WoW this is an excellent book with lots of great twists and turns throughout that will just have you drawn in to this new book by Ruhi.
I highly recommend this book and looking forward to the next book with in Detective Mackenzie Price series.
5 stars read.
Big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2021
Ruhi Choudhary's new novel is full of masterfully drawn characters and is utterly compelling.
The thick woods and deep waters of Lakemore hide the darkest of secrets. Corruption and violence are at the core of a very complex plot that keeps one guessing to the very end. It is tense and absorbing, and darkly disturbing. It kept me awake long into the night until the author revealed the final twist. I held my breath so often it's a wonder I didn't suffocate. Crime fiction doesn't get any better than this.
The thick woods and deep waters of Lakemore hide the darkest of secrets. Corruption and violence are at the core of a very complex plot that keeps one guessing to the very end. It is tense and absorbing, and darkly disturbing. It kept me awake long into the night until the author revealed the final twist. I held my breath so often it's a wonder I didn't suffocate. Crime fiction doesn't get any better than this.
February 10, 2024
There are only a handful of books and movies that I consider predictable, and Choudhary's book series is not among them. I see this as a favorable aspect, particularly for readers such as myself who relish delving into different genres. The first two books left me eagerly anticipating the third one. To be honest, the Little Lost Boy is not as exciting as the first two but it's still a good read, with plenty of decoys that don't feel manipulative, engaging dialogues that provoke thought, and the consistent portrayal of Nick and Mack, who have consistently embodied their roles since the first book.
In the finale, Detective Mack reveals a deeply hidden side of herself to her closest friend and partner, Detective Nick, something she had guarded carefully since the beginning. This pivotal scene marks the beginning of a new chapter in Choudhary's series, sparking my anticipation to dig into the pages of Book 4. ###
In the finale, Detective Mack reveals a deeply hidden side of herself to her closest friend and partner, Detective Nick, something she had guarded carefully since the beginning. This pivotal scene marks the beginning of a new chapter in Choudhary's series, sparking my anticipation to dig into the pages of Book 4. ###
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