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I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
MY REVIEW:
Rating: 4 out of 5 ⭐
This gripping domestic thriller is a heart-pounding exploration of resilience, survival, and the lengths one woman will go to protect herself from her past. The story centers on Ashley, a young woman who has worked tirelessly to rebuild her life after enduring the trauma of domestic abuse. Just as she begins to find stability and hope in her new life—engaged to a wealthy, successful man and surrounded by a supportive family—her worst nightmare comes true: her abusive ex-husband escapes from prison. The news shatters her fragile sense of security, and she is thrust into a terrifying game of cat and mouse as her ex-husband hunts her down, determined to destroy everything she has worked for.
What makes this thriller so compelling is its ability to balance high-stakes action with deeply emotional character development. Ashley is a relatable and multifaceted protagonist, and her journey is both harrowing and inspiring. The author does an excellent job of portraying her internal struggles—her fear, her determination, and her unwavering will to survive. Despite the luxurious trappings of her new life with her fiancé, Ashley remains grounded and true to herself, a testament to her strength and authenticity. The contrast between her humble Appalachian upbringing and her current life among the elite adds another layer of tension, particularly as she navigates the judgmental attitudes of her future in-laws. This dynamic not only heightens the stakes but also underscores the theme of identity and belonging.
The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, particularly Ashley’s family. Her father and brothers are portrayed as fiercely loyal and protective, willing to risk everything to keep her safe. Their unwavering support provides a poignant counterpoint to the betrayal and violence she experienced in her past relationship. The juxtaposition of her loving family with the toxic relationship she escaped highlights the importance of healthy, supportive relationships in overcoming trauma.
The pacing of the novel is relentless, with each chapter delivering new twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The author masterfully builds tension, weaving together Ashley’s past and present to create a narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. The sense of urgency is palpable as Ashley goes on the run, and the stakes feel incredibly real. The rapid unfolding of events mirrors the chaos of Ashley’s life, making it impossible to put the book down.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is its exploration of the psychological impact of domestic abuse. The author doesn’t shy away from depicting the lingering scars of trauma, but they also highlight Ashley’s resilience and resourcefulness. Her fight for survival is not just physical but also emotional, as she confronts her fears and reclaims her agency. This nuanced portrayal adds depth to the story, elevating it beyond a typical thriller.
While the fast-paced nature of the book makes it a quick read, it also leaves you wishing it could last a little longer. The details unfold at a breakneck speed, keeping you fully engaged from start to finish. The ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of closure while also reflecting on the broader themes of justice, redemption, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
In conclusion, this is a must-read for fans of domestic thrillers. It’s a story that combines heart-stopping suspense with emotional depth, creating a narrative that is as moving as it is thrilling. Ashley’s journey is one of courage and resilience, and her story will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
GET IT HERE:
Ashley Hope is an average Southern woman, happily engaged, her whole life ahead of her—until dark secrets from her past come bubbling up. She soon finds herself in a race against time to save herself—and her marriage—from her ex-husband turned serial killer, who will stop at nothing until he has her back.
Ashley has spent years trying to forget her past and the poverty-wracked childhood she escaped from. Her life is finally perfectly normal—and she’s worked hard to make it that way. Her new husband is wealthy and handsome. Their suburban house is a total dream. And with her master’s in criminal justice almost complete, Ashley is ready to move on with her life, confident that her secrets are buried for good.
But on a trip to her rural hometown, old tensions suddenly threaten to boil over. Her Polo-wearing husband sticks out dangerously among the hardened folk of Grundy County. And when the visit goes horribly awry, Ashley, handed shocking news, realizes the past has a stubborn way of coming back.
As Ashley’s carefully constructed life begins to splinter around her, she finds herself in a fight for her life, drawn deeper into a dangerous game of cat and mouse. This killer knows her better than anyone—and he’ll stop at nothing, murder included, to get her where he wants her.
Will her past finally claim her for good?
A dark crime thriller full of mystery and suspense, the ASHLEY HOPE mystery series is rife with twists and jaw-dropping secrets as it unfolds into a riveting psychological thriller. Join this brilliant new female protagonist as she hunts down a serial killer, keeping you spellbound and turning pages late into the night. Fans of Rachel Caine, Teresa Driscoll and Robert Dugoni are sure to fall in love.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kate Bold
Bestselling author Kate Bold is author of the ALEXA CHASE SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising six books (and counting); the ASHLEY HOPE SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising six books (and counting); the CAMILLE GRACE FBI SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising eight books (and counting); the HARLEY COLE FBI SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising seven books (and counting); the KAYLIE BROOKS PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising five books (and counting); the EVE HOPE FBI SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising six books (and counting); and the LAUREN LAMB FBI SUSPENSE THRILLER series, comprising five books (and counting).Kate loves to hear from you, so please feel free to visit http://www.kateboldauthor.com to join the mailing list, receive free ebooks, hear the latest news, and stay in touch.
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