Michelle

I've just published an interview with Sam, with some extra info about Tell Tale.

They’re so sorry… They’ve made a terrible mistake… There’s nothing they can do… They have to take your daughter away… You have three weeks to say goodbye. Nine months after adopting their daughter, Jack and Melissa receive a phone call from the adoption agency, telling them that the baby’s father wants her back. They reveal that he never actually signed away his parental rights, and now he’s come forward, there is nothing they can do. This makes for an interesting start to a book, and in the hands of different authors, I could imagine it taking many different paths. Three Weeks To Say Goodbye is a thriller, so instead of exploring the legal and emotional issues, it takes a different turn. It appears that the baby’s father isn’t actually that interested, and it’s the grandfather who’s pushing for the child – and John Moreland is a well connected federal judge, who will stop at nothing to get his own way. Most of the action, however, takes place outside the court. Jack realises that he can’t fight this the usual way, and so in his desperation, looks for alternatives. He’s helped by two loyal friends, and Cody soon became my favourite character. For me, this made a welcome change to the usual crime thrillers – the main character isn’t a detective or policeman, but rather a travel development specialist! It shows the extremes a father could go to, although they are probably a little more violent than most would manage. There’s also a deeper story to uncover – the reason for Judge Moreland’s obsession is what makes this a thriller. Recommended for crime fans looking for something a little different!

What she said!

Tell Tale What do you do … A woman stands on a bridge, the water rushing below. In a few seconds she will jump, plunging more than two hundred feet to her death. Who is she? And what has driven her to take her own life? When there’s no way out … Nina Kennedy, a wife and mother, is afraid. A man is following her, threatening her family, toying with her sanity. What does he want? And how long will it be before he strikes? And nowhere left to hide … Eight-year-old Ava is waiting for her daddy. But, just like the others in the children’s home, her father never comes. The home is a place of whispers and shadows. But no one dare tell the truth. Until now… It’s very difficult to discuss the plot of this book, without giving too much away – something I hate seeing in a review. The only thing to say is that it takes the three strands mentioned above, and blends them together, gradually bringing all the connections together. If you’ve read Sam’s previous books, Blood Ties and Unspoken, you’ll have an idea of what to expect, both in style, and pace. Everything that I’ve enjoyed with those previous books carries on in this one, there was no disappointment. Sam’s books are all thrillers – they are fast paced, and very difficult to put down. However, they don’t rely on being plot driven books – the characters within are always interesting and believable. As well as wanting to know where the story in general is going, I also find myself wanting to know what’s going to happen to the characters too. If you have already enjoyed Sam’s previous books, I would strongly advise this one. If you haven’t, and you enjoy emotional thrillers, I would strongly advise that you give one a try!

You've been watching too much Holby!

I don't think I could continue to watch if that happens!

Thank you - I'll definitely leave it on the 'to read soon' pile!

Janet, I started this one a while ago, but had to stop because of some review books. I don't want to look at your spoilers, so my question is, is it a worthwhile read - should I pick it up again?

Charm, I loved Odd Thomas - he was such a great character, and I also found the ending rather emotional! The rest in the series aren't quite as good, but still enjoyable, and worth picking up.

I've been saying that as well!

I'm wondering why the Ood have suddenly become so mystical and important?! It does look good though - I'm still very excited!

I, however, loved The Master's character! (BUt then again, I haven't seen him in the past.)

I get SO fed up when the same person does all the trials - it gets boring, and it's not actually fair on the others, as they often don't get noticed until they do a trial.

Who cares about Christmas dinner and presents - I just want the Dr Who special!

From what I know of John Saul, I've moved this to a better section of the forum. Unfortunately though, I can't remember enough of the books I've read to be able to help you.

Sorry fellow admin, but I'm the one who moved it to the Buying/Selling section, as that section is also for general discussions about buying and selling.. and I'm about to move it back there again! Honestly, you can't get the staff these days!

They get destroyed? Why not have a bargain bin.. I'm sure you'd get lots of interest!

What sort of age group do you think these books are aimed at? I'm always looking out for books for my 10 year old to read.

Maybe you'd like to expand a little, and discuss some that you've read?

Nici, I remember reading about this when it first happened. I can not believe that they've given her a suspended sentence.. because she was under a lot of stress!! The rest of us manage to deal with stress without damaging our children!

Well I loved that one - lots of emotional stuff going on, with a darker Doctor. And the trailer for Christmas looks brilliant!!