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Take Your Breath Away
From the New York Times bestselling author of Find You First and Elevator Pitch comes a gripping psychological thriller about a formerly missing woman who has suddenly returned under mysterious circumstances.
One weekend, while Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, his wife, Brie, vanished without a trace. Most everyone assumed Andy had got away with murder--it's always the husband, isn't it?--but the police could never build a strong case against him. For a while, Andy hit rock bottom--he drank too much to numb the pain, was abandoned by all his friends save one, nearly lost his business, and became a pariah in the place he once called home.
Now, six years later, Andy has finally put his life back together. He sold the house he once shared with Brie and moved away. Truth to tell, he wasn't sad to hear that the old place was razed and a new house built on the site. He's settled down with a new partner, Jayne, and life is good.
But Andy's peaceful world is about to shatter. One day, a woman shows up at his old address, screaming, "Where's my house? What's happened to my house?" And then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman--who bears a striking resemblance to Brie--is gone. The police are notified and old questions--and dark suspicions--resurface.
Could Brie really be alive after all these years? If so, where has she been? It soon becomes clear that Andy's future, and the lives of those closest to him, depends on discovering what the hell is going on. The trick will be whether he can stay alive long enough to unearth the answers.
One weekend, while Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, his wife, Brie, vanished without a trace. Most everyone assumed Andy had got away with murder--it's always the husband, isn't it?--but the police could never build a strong case against him. For a while, Andy hit rock bottom--he drank too much to numb the pain, was abandoned by all his friends save one, nearly lost his business, and became a pariah in the place he once called home.
Now, six years later, Andy has finally put his life back together. He sold the house he once shared with Brie and moved away. Truth to tell, he wasn't sad to hear that the old place was razed and a new house built on the site. He's settled down with a new partner, Jayne, and life is good.
But Andy's peaceful world is about to shatter. One day, a woman shows up at his old address, screaming, "Where's my house? What's happened to my house?" And then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman--who bears a striking resemblance to Brie--is gone. The police are notified and old questions--and dark suspicions--resurface.
Could Brie really be alive after all these years? If so, where has she been? It soon becomes clear that Andy's future, and the lives of those closest to him, depends on discovering what the hell is going on. The trick will be whether he can stay alive long enough to unearth the answers.
354 pages, Hardcover
First published February 3, 2022
About the author
Linwood Barclay
106 books6,326 followersLinwood Barclay is the #1 internationally bestselling author of seventeen novels for adults, including No Time for Goodbye, Trust Your Eyes and, most recently, A Noise Downstairs. He has also written two novels for children and screenplays.
Three of those seventeen novels comprise the epic Promise Falls trilogy: Broken Promise, Far From True, and The Twenty-Three. His two novels for children – Chase and Escape – star a computer-enhanced dog named Chipper who’s on the run from the evil organization that turned him into a super-pup.
Barclay’s 2011 thriller, The Accident, has been turned into the six-part television series L’Accident in France, and he adapted his novel Never Saw it Coming for the movie, directed by Gail Harvey and starring Eric Roberts and Emily Hampshire. Several of his other books either have been, or still are, in development for TV and film.
After spending his formative years helping run a cottage resort and trailer park after his father died when he was 16, Barclay got his first newspaper job at the Peterborough Examiner, a small Ontario daily. In 1981, he joined the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest circulation newspaper.
He held such positions as assistant city editor, chief copy editor, news editor, and Life section editor, before becoming the paper’s humour columnist in 1993. He was one of the paper’s most popular columnists before retiring from the position in 2008 to work exclusively on books.
In 2004, he launched his mystery series about an anxiety-ridden, know-it-all, pain-in-the-butt father by the name of Zack Walker. Bad Move, the first book, was followed by three more Zack Walker thrillers: Bad Guys, Lone Wolf, and Stone Rain. (The last two were published in the UK under the titles Bad Luck and Bad News.)
His first standalone thriller, No Time for Goodbye, was published in 2007 to critical acclaim and great international success. The following year, it was a Richard and Judy Summer Read selection in the UK, and did seven straight weeks at #1 on the UK bestseller list, and finished 2008 as the top selling novel of the year there. The book has since been sold around the world and been translated into nearly thirty languages.
Barclay was born in the United States but moved to Canada just before turning four years old when his father, a commercial artist whose illustrations of cars appeared in Life, Look and Saturday Evening Post (before photography took over), accepted a position with an advertising agency north of the border. Barclay, who graduated with an English literature degree from Trent University, in Peterborough, Ontario, was fortunate to have some very fine mentors; in particular, the celebrated Canadian author Margaret Laurence, whom Linwood first met when she served as writer-in-residence at Trent, and Kenneth Millar, who, under the name Ross Macdonald, wrote the acclaimed series of mystery novels featuring detective Lew Archer. It was at Trent that he met Neetha, the woman who would become his wife. They have two grown children, Spencer and Paige.
Three of those seventeen novels comprise the epic Promise Falls trilogy: Broken Promise, Far From True, and The Twenty-Three. His two novels for children – Chase and Escape – star a computer-enhanced dog named Chipper who’s on the run from the evil organization that turned him into a super-pup.
Barclay’s 2011 thriller, The Accident, has been turned into the six-part television series L’Accident in France, and he adapted his novel Never Saw it Coming for the movie, directed by Gail Harvey and starring Eric Roberts and Emily Hampshire. Several of his other books either have been, or still are, in development for TV and film.
After spending his formative years helping run a cottage resort and trailer park after his father died when he was 16, Barclay got his first newspaper job at the Peterborough Examiner, a small Ontario daily. In 1981, he joined the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest circulation newspaper.
He held such positions as assistant city editor, chief copy editor, news editor, and Life section editor, before becoming the paper’s humour columnist in 1993. He was one of the paper’s most popular columnists before retiring from the position in 2008 to work exclusively on books.
In 2004, he launched his mystery series about an anxiety-ridden, know-it-all, pain-in-the-butt father by the name of Zack Walker. Bad Move, the first book, was followed by three more Zack Walker thrillers: Bad Guys, Lone Wolf, and Stone Rain. (The last two were published in the UK under the titles Bad Luck and Bad News.)
His first standalone thriller, No Time for Goodbye, was published in 2007 to critical acclaim and great international success. The following year, it was a Richard and Judy Summer Read selection in the UK, and did seven straight weeks at #1 on the UK bestseller list, and finished 2008 as the top selling novel of the year there. The book has since been sold around the world and been translated into nearly thirty languages.
Barclay was born in the United States but moved to Canada just before turning four years old when his father, a commercial artist whose illustrations of cars appeared in Life, Look and Saturday Evening Post (before photography took over), accepted a position with an advertising agency north of the border. Barclay, who graduated with an English literature degree from Trent University, in Peterborough, Ontario, was fortunate to have some very fine mentors; in particular, the celebrated Canadian author Margaret Laurence, whom Linwood first met when she served as writer-in-residence at Trent, and Kenneth Millar, who, under the name Ross Macdonald, wrote the acclaimed series of mystery novels featuring detective Lew Archer. It was at Trent that he met Neetha, the woman who would become his wife. They have two grown children, Spencer and Paige.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,769 reviews
August 14, 2022
Take Your Breath Away by Linwood Barclay
Poor Andrew Mason goes to his lakeside cabin and comes home to find his wife, Brie, missing. Not only does he lose his wife, he's suspected of murdering her. Andrew sinks into a drunken depression but eventually pulls himself out with the help of his best friend and business partner, Greg. Now, six years later, with his last name changed to avoid attention, Andrew lives with a woman he loves, runs his own modest business, and has mostly put the past behind him. And then his wife is seen. The wife who disappeared for six years.
This is one of those stories where I think the audiobook narrators add to the story. There are at least eight of them and the narration is so well done. I was hooked to this story right away and I really wanted to believe Andrew. He doesn't even pretend to be perfect. He made mistakes in the past, he did things that were wrong in the past, he might even not walk a straight line in the future but he's trying to be a good man. Brie's family mostly hates him, thanks to Brie's sister Izzy's campaign to have him convicted of murder. But despite Detective Marissa Hardy trying to get to the goods on Andrew, she could never find anything to stick.
Now Hardy is on his tail again, probably was never really off of it. Andrew has to figure out who this person is, why she would be doing what she is doing, and if it really is Brie, why she was gone for six years. Andrew has made a life with Jayne now and as much as he would like Brie to still be alive, Brie being alive will explode his new life to bits. There is so much going on in this story that it had my head spinning. I sort of, kind of thought I might know what was going on and then a monkey wrench would get thrown into the mix and send me reeling and scrambling to figure things out again. This is just my second Barclay novel and now I need to get my hands more more.
Pub May 17, 2022
Poor Andrew Mason goes to his lakeside cabin and comes home to find his wife, Brie, missing. Not only does he lose his wife, he's suspected of murdering her. Andrew sinks into a drunken depression but eventually pulls himself out with the help of his best friend and business partner, Greg. Now, six years later, with his last name changed to avoid attention, Andrew lives with a woman he loves, runs his own modest business, and has mostly put the past behind him. And then his wife is seen. The wife who disappeared for six years.
This is one of those stories where I think the audiobook narrators add to the story. There are at least eight of them and the narration is so well done. I was hooked to this story right away and I really wanted to believe Andrew. He doesn't even pretend to be perfect. He made mistakes in the past, he did things that were wrong in the past, he might even not walk a straight line in the future but he's trying to be a good man. Brie's family mostly hates him, thanks to Brie's sister Izzy's campaign to have him convicted of murder. But despite Detective Marissa Hardy trying to get to the goods on Andrew, she could never find anything to stick.
Now Hardy is on his tail again, probably was never really off of it. Andrew has to figure out who this person is, why she would be doing what she is doing, and if it really is Brie, why she was gone for six years. Andrew has made a life with Jayne now and as much as he would like Brie to still be alive, Brie being alive will explode his new life to bits. There is so much going on in this story that it had my head spinning. I sort of, kind of thought I might know what was going on and then a monkey wrench would get thrown into the mix and send me reeling and scrambling to figure things out again. This is just my second Barclay novel and now I need to get my hands more more.
Pub May 17, 2022
December 27, 2021
*4.5 stars*
While Andrew Mason was away for the weekend on a fishing trip with his buddy Greg, his wife Brie disappeared, making Andrew the prime suspect. Even those close to him thought he’d killed his wife, but the police couldn’t find any concrete evidence. His life took a downward spiral, he almost lost his job, his drinking was out of control, and he was shunned in his local community. Six years on, things have changed, he took back control of his life, and has a new partner, Jayne, who he loves very much. Just when life is looking good, someone looking just like Brie turns up in various places, with witnesses claiming it’s her!
There were several plot lines, secrets and twists waiting to be revealed, that made this one difficult to put down.
From about 25% in I thought I’d guessed what had really happened. I had my suspect lined up, slapped in cuffs and on the way to the Police Department, but thanks to excellent use of smoke and mirrors I was wrong! Terrific.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
While Andrew Mason was away for the weekend on a fishing trip with his buddy Greg, his wife Brie disappeared, making Andrew the prime suspect. Even those close to him thought he’d killed his wife, but the police couldn’t find any concrete evidence. His life took a downward spiral, he almost lost his job, his drinking was out of control, and he was shunned in his local community. Six years on, things have changed, he took back control of his life, and has a new partner, Jayne, who he loves very much. Just when life is looking good, someone looking just like Brie turns up in various places, with witnesses claiming it’s her!
There were several plot lines, secrets and twists waiting to be revealed, that made this one difficult to put down.
From about 25% in I thought I’d guessed what had really happened. I had my suspect lined up, slapped in cuffs and on the way to the Police Department, but thanks to excellent use of smoke and mirrors I was wrong! Terrific.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
September 11, 2022
4.5 STARS
Audio Review Audible
Length: 10 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 05-17-22
My second by this author, and this was my favorite!
I also had a library copy and read some, but the narration was so good, that I preferred listening.
Brie Mason, a wife who has been missing for six years suddenly shows up at her old address? She is shouting "Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?" as she drops her grocery bags. Where in the world has she been? What will her husband Andrew think after 6 long years? Not to mention his girlfriend? Everyone's life is about to be turned upside down as Brie sightings continue and the detective is back with questions for Andrew. She is relentless!
Every time I thought I had things sorted out, another curve ball caused me to look the other way! Mega entertaining and clever, with a smart sense of humor and a maze of smoke and mirrors that was fun to navigate.
Audio Review Audible
Length: 10 hrs and 1 min
Release date: 05-17-22
My second by this author, and this was my favorite!
I also had a library copy and read some, but the narration was so good, that I preferred listening.
Brie Mason, a wife who has been missing for six years suddenly shows up at her old address? She is shouting "Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?" as she drops her grocery bags. Where in the world has she been? What will her husband Andrew think after 6 long years? Not to mention his girlfriend? Everyone's life is about to be turned upside down as Brie sightings continue and the detective is back with questions for Andrew. She is relentless!
Every time I thought I had things sorted out, another curve ball caused me to look the other way! Mega entertaining and clever, with a smart sense of humor and a maze of smoke and mirrors that was fun to navigate.
December 27, 2021
The latest thriller from Linwood Barclay is one of his most enjoyable in recent times, it is suitably twisted, and entertaining, keeping me engaged throughout, and set in Connecticut. 6 years ago Andrew Mason had his life shattered when on a fishing trip with his best buddy and business partner, Greg Raymus, he returns home to find his wife, Brie, missing. Their marriage had gone through some rough times but they had sorted out the problems they faced, one of the issues being she was fed up with living in fixer up homes, she wanted somewhere more settled. The police under Detective Marisa Hardy conducted interviews with various interested parties and suspects but got nowhere, she comes to hone in on Andrew as the prime suspect, when it comes to wives, it's always the husband, right?
Andrew's life went on a downward spiral, unable to bear being regarded with suspicion, taking to the demon drink, only to he helped by the only person who believed in him, Greg. He changes his name and moves to a place where he is no longer recognised, getting work and recently finding love with Jayne Keeling, who moves in with him, along with her troubled 16 year old brother, Tyler. However, the past returns to haunt Andrew, and to threaten the new life he has built, when his old neighbour, Max, contacts him to tell him an upset woman resembling Brie had turned up at their old home. Furthermore, the same woman is seen by Brie's family, gathered around their dying mother, Elizabeth McBain. Isabel 'Izzy' had been convinced Andrew had killed her sister, Brie, and pursued him relentlessly, but is it possible Brie is alive? If so, what happened to her?
Andrew, with the police once again taking a closer look at him, decides to find out what happened to his wife, only to find himself dogged by danger and deaths in the present. Barclay writes a gripping thriller, packed with suspense and tension, that I could not let go of until I reached the conclusion with its final twist. If you are looking for a terrific and thrilling crime read, with some great characters, then I think this just might be right up your street. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Andrew's life went on a downward spiral, unable to bear being regarded with suspicion, taking to the demon drink, only to he helped by the only person who believed in him, Greg. He changes his name and moves to a place where he is no longer recognised, getting work and recently finding love with Jayne Keeling, who moves in with him, along with her troubled 16 year old brother, Tyler. However, the past returns to haunt Andrew, and to threaten the new life he has built, when his old neighbour, Max, contacts him to tell him an upset woman resembling Brie had turned up at their old home. Furthermore, the same woman is seen by Brie's family, gathered around their dying mother, Elizabeth McBain. Isabel 'Izzy' had been convinced Andrew had killed her sister, Brie, and pursued him relentlessly, but is it possible Brie is alive? If so, what happened to her?
Andrew, with the police once again taking a closer look at him, decides to find out what happened to his wife, only to find himself dogged by danger and deaths in the present. Barclay writes a gripping thriller, packed with suspense and tension, that I could not let go of until I reached the conclusion with its final twist. If you are looking for a terrific and thrilling crime read, with some great characters, then I think this just might be right up your street. Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
July 22, 2022
4.5⭐
Terrific audiobook! Andrew moved on with his life after his wife Brie went missing six years ago. The police and her family suspect Andrew had something to do with it but Andrew has an alibi - he was away on a bro fishing trip with his friend. Then one day, a woman shows up at their old home in Milford that resembles Brie. Could she still be alive? Where has she been all these years?
I could not put this audiobook down. If I didn't have to get up early, I would've finished this in one day. It was that good! Barclay delivers a brilliant mystery thriller that keeps me guessing, characters I'm invested in and when I thought I figured it out he drops another surprise.
Terrific audiobook! Andrew moved on with his life after his wife Brie went missing six years ago. The police and her family suspect Andrew had something to do with it but Andrew has an alibi - he was away on a bro fishing trip with his friend. Then one day, a woman shows up at their old home in Milford that resembles Brie. Could she still be alive? Where has she been all these years?
I could not put this audiobook down. If I didn't have to get up early, I would've finished this in one day. It was that good! Barclay delivers a brilliant mystery thriller that keeps me guessing, characters I'm invested in and when I thought I figured it out he drops another surprise.
May 29, 2022
One evening, while Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, his wife Brie vanished without a trace.
Although “It’s Always the husband” Detective Marissa Hardy has been unable to build a case proving her suspicions.
Six years later, Andy has changed his last name to Carville, and moved away. The house he shared with Brie was sold and razed, and a new house built in its place.
And, then one day, a woman resembling Brie, arrives “home” with groceries and drops them in the driveway as she spots the unfamiliar front door-“What happened to my house?”
Could it be Brie?
If so, where has she been??
I have to hand it to Linwood Barclay! 👏🏻
This is the fourth novel penned by him that I have read, and all have been unique, and entertaining ! No formulaic writing here!
Suspenseful ✔️
A Sense of foreboding ✔️
Plenty of plausible suspects ✔️
Red herrings ✔️
A Satisfying conclusion ✔️
The ONLY thing that disappointed me? I never get approved for his ARCs and I have to wait for publication date to read his latest novels…maybe next time, Mr. Barclay? 😉
I would like to thank the Chandler Public Library for the loan of this book! 📕
This title is AVAILABLE NOW!
Although “It’s Always the husband” Detective Marissa Hardy has been unable to build a case proving her suspicions.
Six years later, Andy has changed his last name to Carville, and moved away. The house he shared with Brie was sold and razed, and a new house built in its place.
And, then one day, a woman resembling Brie, arrives “home” with groceries and drops them in the driveway as she spots the unfamiliar front door-“What happened to my house?”
Could it be Brie?
If so, where has she been??
I have to hand it to Linwood Barclay! 👏🏻
This is the fourth novel penned by him that I have read, and all have been unique, and entertaining ! No formulaic writing here!
Suspenseful ✔️
A Sense of foreboding ✔️
Plenty of plausible suspects ✔️
Red herrings ✔️
A Satisfying conclusion ✔️
The ONLY thing that disappointed me? I never get approved for his ARCs and I have to wait for publication date to read his latest novels…maybe next time, Mr. Barclay? 😉
I would like to thank the Chandler Public Library for the loan of this book! 📕
This title is AVAILABLE NOW!
July 13, 2022
4.5⭐️
It has been six years since Andrew Mason returned home after a fishing trip with his best friend and business partner to find his wife Brie missing. In those six years, he has been hounded by the police (who still suspect him ), hated by his wife’s family, lost his reputation and his business before finally moving to a neighboring town, changing his name and rebuilding his life. He is now in a new relationship with Jayne, who is unaware of his past, and has apparently moved on.
When a woman who looks a lot like Brie turns up in their old neighborhood in front of where their home used to be and creates a scene only to disappear again, Andrew and the police led by Detective Marissa Hardy resume their respective investigations of what happened six years ago and
try to figure out the identity of the woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to Brie. Is Brie alive and if so, where has she been for six years? Will Andrew be able to prove his innocence this time or is he hiding something? Is there someone out there who knows the truth?
The narrative is shared between multiple PoVs with flashbacks of past events and transcipts from police interviews from the investigation dating back six years. With a plot that kept me guessing till the end (I love it when my predictions turn out to be wrong!), crisp writing, short chapters, consistent pacing and well-executed twists and turns, I thoroughly enjoyed Linwood Barclay's Take Your Breath Away. I combined reading with the incredibly entertaining audio narration featuring Joe Knezevich, George Newbern, Hillary Huber, Pete Simonelli, Michael Crouch, Lauren Fortgang, Jim Meskimen and Karissa Vacker.
My first Linwood Barclay novel but definitely not my last!
It has been six years since Andrew Mason returned home after a fishing trip with his best friend and business partner to find his wife Brie missing. In those six years, he has been hounded by the police (who still suspect him ), hated by his wife’s family, lost his reputation and his business before finally moving to a neighboring town, changing his name and rebuilding his life. He is now in a new relationship with Jayne, who is unaware of his past, and has apparently moved on.
When a woman who looks a lot like Brie turns up in their old neighborhood in front of where their home used to be and creates a scene only to disappear again, Andrew and the police led by Detective Marissa Hardy resume their respective investigations of what happened six years ago and
try to figure out the identity of the woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to Brie. Is Brie alive and if so, where has she been for six years? Will Andrew be able to prove his innocence this time or is he hiding something? Is there someone out there who knows the truth?
The narrative is shared between multiple PoVs with flashbacks of past events and transcipts from police interviews from the investigation dating back six years. With a plot that kept me guessing till the end (I love it when my predictions turn out to be wrong!), crisp writing, short chapters, consistent pacing and well-executed twists and turns, I thoroughly enjoyed Linwood Barclay's Take Your Breath Away. I combined reading with the incredibly entertaining audio narration featuring Joe Knezevich, George Newbern, Hillary Huber, Pete Simonelli, Michael Crouch, Lauren Fortgang, Jim Meskimen and Karissa Vacker.
My first Linwood Barclay novel but definitely not my last!
May 30, 2022
Thank you Harper Collins Canada for the physical ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
Writing: 3.5/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: 2.5/5
THE PLOT
Six years ago, Andrew's wife Brie went missing and he became prime suspect numero uno. When Brie suddenly reappears, Andrew's life is sent into a tailspin. Is it really Brie? Where did she come from? Where did she go? Where did you come from, Cotton Eye Brie?
MY OPINION
My first Linwood Barclay book and I enjoyed the writing. The pacing dragged in some places; from the point Brie popped back on the scene to when Andrew decided to finally get off his ass and find out wagwan was over 100 pages.... Pls.
This is Honda Civic reliable if you're prepared to suspend your disbelief and don't mind the hallmarks of male-authored books, which include:
-unlikeable women with horrible personalities (the only "good" ones are subservient)
-random gang/mafia storyline just to spice tings up
-action scenes
-male "protagonist" that really ain't shit and ofc had a drinking problem at one point
I didn't like some of the POVs–tbh we didn't need Tyler in there at all. I understand his "role" in the end, but still, the book would've been just fine without him. You could've swapped in Jayne for his scenes and it would've worked just as well. This goes with my point of the pacing, the rando POVs and police interview scripts just bogged things down without really providing any necessary info to move the plot forward. I guess it was all about creating suspense but it felt more like I was in a slow line at the grocery store.
There were humorous parts and I can see this working very well as a fancy Netflix/HBO series. The premise was interesting and I was wondering if Brie really did come back (Unmissing style) to wreak some havoc or if something else was afoot. Read this to find out.
BTW THERE WAS A SKULL WITH HAIR AGAIN!!!!!!! CMON PEOPLE!!!!!!! DON'T DO THIS TO ME!!!!!!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: interesting premise, decent writing, some humour
Cons: slow in some parts, requires you to suspend your belief (hair on a skull, hawk in a mall???), pretty obvious what was poppin off
Writing: 3.5/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: 2.5/5
THE PLOT
Six years ago, Andrew's wife Brie went missing and he became prime suspect numero uno. When Brie suddenly reappears, Andrew's life is sent into a tailspin. Is it really Brie? Where did she come from? Where did she go? Where did you come from, Cotton Eye Brie?
MY OPINION
My first Linwood Barclay book and I enjoyed the writing. The pacing dragged in some places; from the point Brie popped back on the scene to when Andrew decided to finally get off his ass and find out wagwan was over 100 pages.... Pls.
This is Honda Civic reliable if you're prepared to suspend your disbelief and don't mind the hallmarks of male-authored books, which include:
-unlikeable women with horrible personalities (the only "good" ones are subservient)
-random gang/mafia storyline just to spice tings up
-action scenes
-male "protagonist" that really ain't shit and ofc had a drinking problem at one point
I didn't like some of the POVs–tbh we didn't need Tyler in there at all. I understand his "role" in the end, but still, the book would've been just fine without him. You could've swapped in Jayne for his scenes and it would've worked just as well. This goes with my point of the pacing, the rando POVs and police interview scripts just bogged things down without really providing any necessary info to move the plot forward. I guess it was all about creating suspense but it felt more like I was in a slow line at the grocery store.
There were humorous parts and I can see this working very well as a fancy Netflix/HBO series. The premise was interesting and I was wondering if Brie really did come back (Unmissing style) to wreak some havoc or if something else was afoot. Read this to find out.
BTW THERE WAS A SKULL WITH HAIR AGAIN!!!!!!! CMON PEOPLE!!!!!!! DON'T DO THIS TO ME!!!!!!!!!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: interesting premise, decent writing, some humour
Cons: slow in some parts, requires you to suspend your belief (hair on a skull, hawk in a mall???), pretty obvious what was poppin off
December 5, 2021
What happened to Brie Mason six years ago? Why does her return home to 36 Mulberry disturb her so much? One thing is for certain her reappearance sets off a chain reaction and is a conundrum for Detective Marisa Hardy whose suspicious eye always falls on Brie’s husband Andrew who has lived under a cloud of suspicion and with the difficulty of the not knowing.
I think you could describe this as a classic Linwood Barclay mystery with several subplots that weave seamlessly together into an intriguing plot. The dialogue and characterisation is extremely good, the author gets inside several peoples heads giving the reader a ‘birds eye view‘ for want of a better expression! Particularly strong is Andrew but others are equally well conveyed such as Brie’s sister Izzy who let’s just describe her as something else! The plot is good, it’s multilayered, it’s puzzling, compelling and very easy to read. What is especially good is that your Miss Marple/Hercule Poirot amateur detective eyes fall on several characters and when it’s revealed it’s a good surprise and a believable one. The plot on a couple of occasions does straight into bonkers la la land territory especially towards the end when one characters actions defy logical thinking which I daresay is often true to life (!) but I can definitely say it’s entertaining and at the end of the day that’s what counts.
Overall if you like Linwood Barclay then you’ll enjoy this one which is an absorbing read from beginning to end.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
I think you could describe this as a classic Linwood Barclay mystery with several subplots that weave seamlessly together into an intriguing plot. The dialogue and characterisation is extremely good, the author gets inside several peoples heads giving the reader a ‘birds eye view‘ for want of a better expression! Particularly strong is Andrew but others are equally well conveyed such as Brie’s sister Izzy who let’s just describe her as something else! The plot is good, it’s multilayered, it’s puzzling, compelling and very easy to read. What is especially good is that your Miss Marple/Hercule Poirot amateur detective eyes fall on several characters and when it’s revealed it’s a good surprise and a believable one. The plot on a couple of occasions does straight into bonkers la la land territory especially towards the end when one characters actions defy logical thinking which I daresay is often true to life (!) but I can definitely say it’s entertaining and at the end of the day that’s what counts.
Overall if you like Linwood Barclay then you’ll enjoy this one which is an absorbing read from beginning to end.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
August 19, 2022
5 Twisty stars ⭐️ I ❤️ loved❤️loved ❤️this book, it was fast paced compelling & the characters were well drawn loved every minute I could not put it down.
Brie went missing six years ago was seen outside a shopping mall never to be seen again, Andrew her husband had a shady past & was interrogated by Detective Hardy as to Bries whereabouts.
Six years later Andrew is happy & married to Jayne he is t be a father & is looking forward to his child coming, but now Tyler Keeling Bries brother comes back & then things start to amp up, there are so many twisty aspects to this book you think you know where Barclay is heading & the twist is completely going in the other direction. I was happy with the ending thought I had my detective hat going in the reveal but alas I was wrong as usual, I love this author so if you haven’t read him yet the do so you won’t be disappointed.
Brie went missing six years ago was seen outside a shopping mall never to be seen again, Andrew her husband had a shady past & was interrogated by Detective Hardy as to Bries whereabouts.
Six years later Andrew is happy & married to Jayne he is t be a father & is looking forward to his child coming, but now Tyler Keeling Bries brother comes back & then things start to amp up, there are so many twisty aspects to this book you think you know where Barclay is heading & the twist is completely going in the other direction. I was happy with the ending thought I had my detective hat going in the reveal but alas I was wrong as usual, I love this author so if you haven’t read him yet the do so you won’t be disappointed.
August 22, 2022
Missing wife, husband with failing business, wife momentarily reappears 6 years later, relentless detective…I’m in!
While I had a strong idea of who was behind Brie Mason’s disappearance, I wasn’t sure. Author Linwood Barclay writes a fantastic suspense novel with multiple red herrings and misdirection which includes several suspects who would want or benefit from Brie disappearing. Although I was correct from the beginning of who was responsible, I did NOT foresee how, why, where, and when. I appreciate an author who can create twisty plots. Barclay proves his skill at creating a plot that keeps the reader guessing the whole book, even when that reader is fairly sure who is behind the disappearance.
Barclay adds complications to Andrew Mason’s life in that he now has a girlfriend, Jayne, who lives with him, after all, Brie has been missing for 6 years. They also are taking care of a troubled and goofy 16-year-old boy, Tyler. Tyler creates domestic problems. Jayne becomes anxious that if Brie does come back, Andrew will dump her. These domestic matters add tension to the plot.
The book is divided into chapters. Some provides Andrew’s point of view revealing his part of the plot in first person. Other chapters are written as police reports of Detective Hardy’s interviews with suspects. Filling in and furthering the plot are chapters that give different character’s POV’s. The Police reports, that are peppered throughout the story, build anxiety. Andrew’s chapters are insatiable. You will devour this book!
While I had a strong idea of who was behind Brie Mason’s disappearance, I wasn’t sure. Author Linwood Barclay writes a fantastic suspense novel with multiple red herrings and misdirection which includes several suspects who would want or benefit from Brie disappearing. Although I was correct from the beginning of who was responsible, I did NOT foresee how, why, where, and when. I appreciate an author who can create twisty plots. Barclay proves his skill at creating a plot that keeps the reader guessing the whole book, even when that reader is fairly sure who is behind the disappearance.
Barclay adds complications to Andrew Mason’s life in that he now has a girlfriend, Jayne, who lives with him, after all, Brie has been missing for 6 years. They also are taking care of a troubled and goofy 16-year-old boy, Tyler. Tyler creates domestic problems. Jayne becomes anxious that if Brie does come back, Andrew will dump her. These domestic matters add tension to the plot.
The book is divided into chapters. Some provides Andrew’s point of view revealing his part of the plot in first person. Other chapters are written as police reports of Detective Hardy’s interviews with suspects. Filling in and furthering the plot are chapters that give different character’s POV’s. The Police reports, that are peppered throughout the story, build anxiety. Andrew’s chapters are insatiable. You will devour this book!
August 10, 2022
My first Linwood Barclay novel!!! 👏🏼🇨🇦 What took me so long to read this fellow Canadians works?
This was a terrific audiobook set to a great narration and wonderful writing. I could not figure this one out even when I thought I did!
I liked all the twists and turns and smoke and mirrors offered in this book. He used some very creative thinking. I'll definitely check out his backlog.
I could see this one as a limited series on Netflix! (hint hint) 😉
This was a terrific audiobook set to a great narration and wonderful writing. I could not figure this one out even when I thought I did!
I liked all the twists and turns and smoke and mirrors offered in this book. He used some very creative thinking. I'll definitely check out his backlog.
I could see this one as a limited series on Netflix! (hint hint) 😉
June 24, 2022
This one started off slower than Mr. Barclay's books usually do. However, I was hooked by the halfway point. There were some expertly plotted twists and plenty of suspects. The author continues to impress me, and I can't wait to see what he comes up with next!
July 13, 2022
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My first Linwood Barclay book. Loved it!
July 17, 2022
'Take Your Breath Away' is the brand-new riveting pulse-pounder from Linwood Barclay. A suspense filled thriller which (literally) took my breath away as I rode an unrelenting rollercoaster set in constant free-fall. Just when I was sure i knew which direction the storyline was going it took a head-spinning 180*. The plot literally changes course right up till the very last jaw-dropping minute. The characters are well developed and I easily became invested (the good, bad, and ugly) in each. For example, the lead detective infuriated me to no end - and only because the writing and narration for her character is impeccable. She acts and thinks like an authentic real life detective looking to nail a suspect - no matter the cost(s).
I listened to the audible edition, and it goes without saying that this gifted collaboration of seasoned narrators made it one phenomenal listening experience: George Newbern, Hillary Huber, Joe Knezevich, Pete Simonelli, Michael Crouch, Lauren Fortgang, Jim Meskimen, and Karissa Vacker. Kudos to all. Highly recommend.
I listened to the audible edition, and it goes without saying that this gifted collaboration of seasoned narrators made it one phenomenal listening experience: George Newbern, Hillary Huber, Joe Knezevich, Pete Simonelli, Michael Crouch, Lauren Fortgang, Jim Meskimen, and Karissa Vacker. Kudos to all. Highly recommend.
July 29, 2022
There is a reason why Linwood Barclay is a favorite author for many people and why his books fly off the shelves. His books are like that comfortable feeling your get when something is familiar and dependable. While some are better than other, you know you will get a great read with plenty of suspense to keep you engaged. You know he will still bring something exciting and refreshing to his stories to keep you on your toes.
I love to listen to books by Linwood Barclay; they make the best books to listen to. I always know I am in for an entertaining easy book to listen to that keeps my attention from start to finish. I also bought a copy on impulse while I was at Costco. It was like my hand was on autopilot, and I had to buy it. I read some of it but preferred to listen to it.
What makes Take Your Breath Away a great summer listen
A full cast reads it, and I loved listening to the different voices. The multiply POVs added tension to the story to keep you wanting to stay outside doing what you are doing while listening to the story.
The story is light yet gripping, simple plot to follow with characters that are easy to keep track of if your mind starts to wonder.
Where to listen to Take Your Breath Away
While walking, biking or anything that keeps you moving
The hook, and pace: Was the story a page-turner?
Brie goes missing without a trace from her home while her husband is away on a fishing trip with his friends and business partner. Six years later, a woman who looks like Brie is seen, and the fun begins. I was hooked from the beginning right to the end, wanting to listen whenever I could and reading when I wasn’t listening to it.
Believability element: Did it blur the lines between fiction and reality with a believability element that made me think it could happen?
Nope, this is all about the entertainment and the sheer delight of reading something fun while enjoying some relaxing time.
Payoff: Did the twists and turns take my breath away with a rewarding payoff in the end?
I won’t say the twists are breathtaking, or it is about who dunnit because I guessed who was behind Brie’s disappearance early on. If I can, anyone can. LOL, It’s all about finding out the truth about what happened the night Brie disappeared, why and where she has been. All the pieces are there, and while it feels a bit predictable, I was hooked and anticipating the reveal. As always, Linwood Barclay has a few surprises with each turn to keep you on your toes, and the pieces come together nicely for a satisfying and rewarding ending.
I love to listen to books by Linwood Barclay; they make the best books to listen to. I always know I am in for an entertaining easy book to listen to that keeps my attention from start to finish. I also bought a copy on impulse while I was at Costco. It was like my hand was on autopilot, and I had to buy it. I read some of it but preferred to listen to it.
What makes Take Your Breath Away a great summer listen
A full cast reads it, and I loved listening to the different voices. The multiply POVs added tension to the story to keep you wanting to stay outside doing what you are doing while listening to the story.
The story is light yet gripping, simple plot to follow with characters that are easy to keep track of if your mind starts to wonder.
Where to listen to Take Your Breath Away
While walking, biking or anything that keeps you moving
The hook, and pace: Was the story a page-turner?
Brie goes missing without a trace from her home while her husband is away on a fishing trip with his friends and business partner. Six years later, a woman who looks like Brie is seen, and the fun begins. I was hooked from the beginning right to the end, wanting to listen whenever I could and reading when I wasn’t listening to it.
Believability element: Did it blur the lines between fiction and reality with a believability element that made me think it could happen?
Nope, this is all about the entertainment and the sheer delight of reading something fun while enjoying some relaxing time.
Payoff: Did the twists and turns take my breath away with a rewarding payoff in the end?
I won’t say the twists are breathtaking, or it is about who dunnit because I guessed who was behind Brie’s disappearance early on. If I can, anyone can. LOL, It’s all about finding out the truth about what happened the night Brie disappeared, why and where she has been. All the pieces are there, and while it feels a bit predictable, I was hooked and anticipating the reveal. As always, Linwood Barclay has a few surprises with each turn to keep you on your toes, and the pieces come together nicely for a satisfying and rewarding ending.
May 25, 2022
4.5 Stars
I admit to a love/hate relationship with Linwood Barclay's books. I find some to be brilliant, engaging mysteries and a few to be less appealing. I was happy that I thought this was one of his strongest thrillers.
Linwood Barclay is a prominent Canadian crime writer. He was born in the USA but moved to Canada with his family when he was only four years old. He lives in Ontario, and his books are popular here and in other countries. They have been made into movies and Netflix series. It disappoints me that, to my knowledge, none of his stories have been set in Canada.
This fast-moving, complex, multilayered story keeps the reader guessing. Some of the twists were far-fetched, but it was very entertaining. It was an enjoyable, puzzling, edge-of-your-seat read.
Six years ago, Andrew Mason's life was shattered, and everything fell apart for him. He was working as a contractor and flipping homes after renovating them. He returned from a fishing trip with his friend and business partner, Greg. His wife, Brie, had vanished without a trace in his absence. Their marriage had been through some rough times. Brie was tired of living in fixer-up houses and wanted a more permanent home of their own. They both indulged in short-term affairs. Everything had been forgiven, and they seemed to be building a stronger, happier marriage.
After interviewing several suspects and people of interest, Detective Melissa Hardy decided Andrew was the prime suspect. As no body was found, Andrew had not been arrested yet, but Hardy was determined to build a case against him.
Andrew's life became unbearable. He had lost his wife, and the community regarded him with suspicion and loathing. Detective Hardy keeps hounding him and Brie's sister, Isabel, loudly declares he is a murderer to everyone. He was drinking himself into a stupor. Only his friend, Greg, was supportive and believed him innocent.
Six years later, we find Andrew in a better place. He has changed his name and has moved to a nearby community where he is not recognized and finds work. He has a new girlfriend, Jayne, who moves in with him, and Andrew is in love again. Jayne's troubled and rebellious 16-year-old brother, Tyler, also lives with them. They are trying to steer him into a calmer lifestyle.
The old home where Andrew lived with Brie has been razed, and a new ultra-modern built to replace it. One day, Andrew receives a shocking phone call alerting him that a distraught woman resembling Brie showed up at the place where the former home stood. She was screaming, "Where is my house! What happened to it?" She then departs quickly. Brie's family has gathered around the hospital bed of their dying mother, Elizabeth. They spot a woman who looks like Brie standing in the parking lot through the window. She stares at the mother's window, waves to them, and hurries away.
Witnessing this was Albert, Brie's brother and his wife, and Isabel (Izzy), Brie's sister and her husband, Norman. Isabel is a woman who constantly complains and belittles her husband. She has been relentless in blaming Andrew for the murder and for hiding Brie's body. Now she believes she may have been mistaken as Brie is still alive. Where was Brie? Where has she been for so many years? What happened to her?
Furthermore, the same woman appears at night in Elizabeth's hospital room. Now Elizabeth feels she can die in peace since Brie is still alive. Of course, most people don't believe her.
The police are once again investigating Andrew. Many interested characters are making wrong choices with the best intentions. Hardy calls this the law of unintended consequences. " You start out intending to do one thing and end up causing something else to happen." Their actions further muddle the mystery and interfere with the investigation, so Andrew is determined to search for answers independently. He finds his life endangered while making some heart-wrenching, shocking discoveries. More deaths occur. The conclusion is unforeseen.
The author has created a fascinating, riveting puzzle that kept me reading far into the night. The characters were complex and had hidden secrets needing to be revealed before the mystery could be solved.
I admit to a love/hate relationship with Linwood Barclay's books. I find some to be brilliant, engaging mysteries and a few to be less appealing. I was happy that I thought this was one of his strongest thrillers.
Linwood Barclay is a prominent Canadian crime writer. He was born in the USA but moved to Canada with his family when he was only four years old. He lives in Ontario, and his books are popular here and in other countries. They have been made into movies and Netflix series. It disappoints me that, to my knowledge, none of his stories have been set in Canada.
This fast-moving, complex, multilayered story keeps the reader guessing. Some of the twists were far-fetched, but it was very entertaining. It was an enjoyable, puzzling, edge-of-your-seat read.
Six years ago, Andrew Mason's life was shattered, and everything fell apart for him. He was working as a contractor and flipping homes after renovating them. He returned from a fishing trip with his friend and business partner, Greg. His wife, Brie, had vanished without a trace in his absence. Their marriage had been through some rough times. Brie was tired of living in fixer-up houses and wanted a more permanent home of their own. They both indulged in short-term affairs. Everything had been forgiven, and they seemed to be building a stronger, happier marriage.
After interviewing several suspects and people of interest, Detective Melissa Hardy decided Andrew was the prime suspect. As no body was found, Andrew had not been arrested yet, but Hardy was determined to build a case against him.
Andrew's life became unbearable. He had lost his wife, and the community regarded him with suspicion and loathing. Detective Hardy keeps hounding him and Brie's sister, Isabel, loudly declares he is a murderer to everyone. He was drinking himself into a stupor. Only his friend, Greg, was supportive and believed him innocent.
Six years later, we find Andrew in a better place. He has changed his name and has moved to a nearby community where he is not recognized and finds work. He has a new girlfriend, Jayne, who moves in with him, and Andrew is in love again. Jayne's troubled and rebellious 16-year-old brother, Tyler, also lives with them. They are trying to steer him into a calmer lifestyle.
The old home where Andrew lived with Brie has been razed, and a new ultra-modern built to replace it. One day, Andrew receives a shocking phone call alerting him that a distraught woman resembling Brie showed up at the place where the former home stood. She was screaming, "Where is my house! What happened to it?" She then departs quickly. Brie's family has gathered around the hospital bed of their dying mother, Elizabeth. They spot a woman who looks like Brie standing in the parking lot through the window. She stares at the mother's window, waves to them, and hurries away.
Witnessing this was Albert, Brie's brother and his wife, and Isabel (Izzy), Brie's sister and her husband, Norman. Isabel is a woman who constantly complains and belittles her husband. She has been relentless in blaming Andrew for the murder and for hiding Brie's body. Now she believes she may have been mistaken as Brie is still alive. Where was Brie? Where has she been for so many years? What happened to her?
Furthermore, the same woman appears at night in Elizabeth's hospital room. Now Elizabeth feels she can die in peace since Brie is still alive. Of course, most people don't believe her.
The police are once again investigating Andrew. Many interested characters are making wrong choices with the best intentions. Hardy calls this the law of unintended consequences. " You start out intending to do one thing and end up causing something else to happen." Their actions further muddle the mystery and interfere with the investigation, so Andrew is determined to search for answers independently. He finds his life endangered while making some heart-wrenching, shocking discoveries. More deaths occur. The conclusion is unforeseen.
The author has created a fascinating, riveting puzzle that kept me reading far into the night. The characters were complex and had hidden secrets needing to be revealed before the mystery could be solved.
July 10, 2022
Audiobook…..read by full cast
…..10 hours and 1 minute.
Totally engaging — I enjoyed it from start to finish —
It was my second go-around with a Linwood Barclay crime thriller. Loved it!!!
Thank you to Holly - Paromjit- Louise - and others in the Goodreads community!
4.5 — terrific!!!’
…..10 hours and 1 minute.
Totally engaging — I enjoyed it from start to finish —
It was my second go-around with a Linwood Barclay crime thriller. Loved it!!!
Thank you to Holly - Paromjit- Louise - and others in the Goodreads community!
4.5 — terrific!!!’
October 25, 2022
Take Your Breath Away by Linwood Barclay
Synopsis /
From the New York Times bestselling author of Find You First and Elevator Pitch comes a gripping psychological thriller about a formerly missing woman who has suddenly returned under mysterious circumstances.
One weekend, while Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, his wife, Brie, vanished without a trace. Most everyone assumed Andy had got away with murder--it's always the husband, isn't it?--but the police could never build a strong case against him. For a while, Andy hit rock bottom--he drank too much to numb the pain, was abandoned by all his friends save one, nearly lost his business, and became a pariah in the place he once called home.
Now, six years later, Andy has finally put his life back together. He sold the house he once shared with Brie and moved away. Truth to tell, he wasn't sad to hear that the old place was razed and a new house built on the site. He's settled down with a new partner, Jayne, and life is good.
But Andy's peaceful world is about to shatter. One day, a woman shows up at his old address, screaming, "Where's my house? What's happened to my house?" And then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman--who bears a striking resemblance to Brie--is gone. The police are notified and old questions--and dark suspicions--resurface.
Could Brie really be alive after all these years? If so, where has she been? It soon becomes clear that Andy's future, and the lives of those closest to him, depends on discovering what the hell is going on. The trick will be whether he can stay alive long enough to unearth the answers.
My Thoughts /
Linwood Barclay, is an international bestselling author with twenty novels to his credit. He spent three decades in newspapers before turning his hand to writing thrillers full-time. His 2011 novel, The Accident, has been turned into a six-part television series aired in France. Several of his other books have been, or ‘are’, in development for film and television projects. So why then, have I only managed to read just one other book written by this author - Find You First, which was back in October of 2021?
Take Your Breath Away, published in 2022, is a standalone novel set in Milford, a coastal city in New Haven County, Connecticut USA, and tells the story of Brie and Andrew Mason. The story opens with Brie, the night before she goes missing. This opening little tidbit gives us an insight into Brie and her character. We learn she’s got secrets. Nothing too sinister mind you, but secrets, nonetheless. This opening scene sets up motive for a few different people – as we find out later.
Like a lot of married couples, Brie and Andy have had marriage problems of late. Fault can be laid with both sides, but they’ve worked through their issues and now things are looking up. They’ve agreed that their current renovation and flip project in Mulberry Street will be their last, as it’s time to find their forever home and plan for their future.
Whilst Andy is on a weekend fishing trip with his best friend Greg, Brie disappears. The police, and most of Andy’s friends and family think he’s the prime suspect. But there’s no evidence to support this theory, there’s no body and, unfortunately, no leads.
The book then skips ahead six years. Although never ‘formally’ charged with anything, Andrew remains the police’s main suspect for Brie’s disappearance. But Andrew has had to move on with his life. He has changed his last name, moved to another town, and is now in a relationship with another woman. But not only ‘in a relationship’ – we learn that Jayne is now pregnant with Andrew’s child. Andrew has dug a big hole for himself here because we learn that he has revealed nothing to Jayne about his previous life with Brie. So, when a woman who bears a striking resemblance to his missing wife turns up at their old Mulberry Street house screaming, ‘Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?'; well, Andrew me old mate; you’ve got a lot of explaining to do. The police are alerted and, the investigation into Brie’s sudden ‘re-appearance’ begins again in earnest.
The was a quick and easy read, with interesting dialogue and strong inviting characters. The uncertainty surrounding the question as to whether Brie is alive or not is what drives this story, and especially, when the recent sighting of a woman who looks remarkably like Brie is dropped in. The reader is kept guessing until close to the end. This is a definite page-turner and a nicely played game of cat and mouse. It’s a book full of twists, turns and misdirection, with a heaping helping of red herrings thrown in.
Trust no-one. Suspect everyone.
Synopsis /
From the New York Times bestselling author of Find You First and Elevator Pitch comes a gripping psychological thriller about a formerly missing woman who has suddenly returned under mysterious circumstances.
One weekend, while Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, his wife, Brie, vanished without a trace. Most everyone assumed Andy had got away with murder--it's always the husband, isn't it?--but the police could never build a strong case against him. For a while, Andy hit rock bottom--he drank too much to numb the pain, was abandoned by all his friends save one, nearly lost his business, and became a pariah in the place he once called home.
Now, six years later, Andy has finally put his life back together. He sold the house he once shared with Brie and moved away. Truth to tell, he wasn't sad to hear that the old place was razed and a new house built on the site. He's settled down with a new partner, Jayne, and life is good.
But Andy's peaceful world is about to shatter. One day, a woman shows up at his old address, screaming, "Where's my house? What's happened to my house?" And then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman--who bears a striking resemblance to Brie--is gone. The police are notified and old questions--and dark suspicions--resurface.
Could Brie really be alive after all these years? If so, where has she been? It soon becomes clear that Andy's future, and the lives of those closest to him, depends on discovering what the hell is going on. The trick will be whether he can stay alive long enough to unearth the answers.
My Thoughts /
Linwood Barclay, is an international bestselling author with twenty novels to his credit. He spent three decades in newspapers before turning his hand to writing thrillers full-time. His 2011 novel, The Accident, has been turned into a six-part television series aired in France. Several of his other books have been, or ‘are’, in development for film and television projects. So why then, have I only managed to read just one other book written by this author - Find You First, which was back in October of 2021?
Take Your Breath Away, published in 2022, is a standalone novel set in Milford, a coastal city in New Haven County, Connecticut USA, and tells the story of Brie and Andrew Mason. The story opens with Brie, the night before she goes missing. This opening little tidbit gives us an insight into Brie and her character. We learn she’s got secrets. Nothing too sinister mind you, but secrets, nonetheless. This opening scene sets up motive for a few different people – as we find out later.
Like a lot of married couples, Brie and Andy have had marriage problems of late. Fault can be laid with both sides, but they’ve worked through their issues and now things are looking up. They’ve agreed that their current renovation and flip project in Mulberry Street will be their last, as it’s time to find their forever home and plan for their future.
Whilst Andy is on a weekend fishing trip with his best friend Greg, Brie disappears. The police, and most of Andy’s friends and family think he’s the prime suspect. But there’s no evidence to support this theory, there’s no body and, unfortunately, no leads.
The book then skips ahead six years. Although never ‘formally’ charged with anything, Andrew remains the police’s main suspect for Brie’s disappearance. But Andrew has had to move on with his life. He has changed his last name, moved to another town, and is now in a relationship with another woman. But not only ‘in a relationship’ – we learn that Jayne is now pregnant with Andrew’s child. Andrew has dug a big hole for himself here because we learn that he has revealed nothing to Jayne about his previous life with Brie. So, when a woman who bears a striking resemblance to his missing wife turns up at their old Mulberry Street house screaming, ‘Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?'; well, Andrew me old mate; you’ve got a lot of explaining to do. The police are alerted and, the investigation into Brie’s sudden ‘re-appearance’ begins again in earnest.
The was a quick and easy read, with interesting dialogue and strong inviting characters. The uncertainty surrounding the question as to whether Brie is alive or not is what drives this story, and especially, when the recent sighting of a woman who looks remarkably like Brie is dropped in. The reader is kept guessing until close to the end. This is a definite page-turner and a nicely played game of cat and mouse. It’s a book full of twists, turns and misdirection, with a heaping helping of red herrings thrown in.
Trust no-one. Suspect everyone.
February 5, 2022
4.5★s
Six years after his wife Brie Mason had vanished, seemingly without trace, Andrew had changed his surname, moved to a different area and met Jayne, whom he loved deeply. Jayne’s teenage brother Tyler, also lived with them. The shock Andrew felt when he received a call from his old neighbour, Max, to say a woman had turned up that day, who bore a striking resemblance to Brie, astounded him. Detective Marissa Hardy was notified, and she was once again on the case. She’d hounded Andrew back when Brie first disappeared, always believing he’d killed her. But the return of this woman, if it was Brie, brought all her previous assumptions undone.
With Brie’s family – her sister and brother, and in-laws – once again involved, Andrew started to investigate on his own. He’d kept a lot from Jayne, which of course she found out from Hardy, and things were rocky. What would happen if the woman was Brie? Where had she been for the past six years? And why did she turn up now? Andrew hoped his life wouldn’t fall apart again…
Take Your Breath Away is a psychological thriller by Linwood Barclay, with loads of twists and turns, especially as I moved closer to the finish. A breathtaking, chilling novel, with characters who all had secrets – every one of them! I haven’t read a Barclay in awhile, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Six years after his wife Brie Mason had vanished, seemingly without trace, Andrew had changed his surname, moved to a different area and met Jayne, whom he loved deeply. Jayne’s teenage brother Tyler, also lived with them. The shock Andrew felt when he received a call from his old neighbour, Max, to say a woman had turned up that day, who bore a striking resemblance to Brie, astounded him. Detective Marissa Hardy was notified, and she was once again on the case. She’d hounded Andrew back when Brie first disappeared, always believing he’d killed her. But the return of this woman, if it was Brie, brought all her previous assumptions undone.
With Brie’s family – her sister and brother, and in-laws – once again involved, Andrew started to investigate on his own. He’d kept a lot from Jayne, which of course she found out from Hardy, and things were rocky. What would happen if the woman was Brie? Where had she been for the past six years? And why did she turn up now? Andrew hoped his life wouldn’t fall apart again…
Take Your Breath Away is a psychological thriller by Linwood Barclay, with loads of twists and turns, especially as I moved closer to the finish. A breathtaking, chilling novel, with characters who all had secrets – every one of them! I haven’t read a Barclay in awhile, and this one certainly didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2022
Linwood Barclay has done it AGAIN!! I'm ashamed to admit, I haven't read a Barclay novel since A Noise Downstairs, which I absolutely loved, and I thought surely none could come close to that one, but this one might actually be even better! If you want a thrilling, heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat mystery look no further, this is the book for you!
As the synopsis implies, Andrew Mason's wife Brie mysteriously vanished six years earlier, never to be heard from again. Just as he starts to piece his life back together, find new love, and think about his future again a mysterious woman arrives at what was once his old home, in a panic wondering what happened to her home? Could it be that Brie is finally back? If so, where has she been all this time? The camera footage from Andrew's former neighbor is fuzzy, but the woman does somewhat resemble Brie. Despite this, Andrew is skeptical...but why? Does he have reason to believe Brie could never really return home? Brie's family definitely suspects he does, especially her sister Isabel, who has always suspected he was involved somehow.
As the mystery into who this woman is, and what happened to Brie all those years earlier unfolded, I was simply put, riveted. I could not put this book down! There were so many twists to the mystery element, I was eagerly turning the pages, anticipating the reveal. In no way, was I even remotely close to predicting what was truly happening, and that's the sign of an incredible thriller/suspense that only Barclay could have written!
I think disclosing any more details would spoil this one, so I will just say it's worth reading, and I have no doubt at all this will be a big hit! Is it me, or does Barclay just seem to keep getting better with each release?! Fantastic work once again, Mr. Barclay!!!
As the synopsis implies, Andrew Mason's wife Brie mysteriously vanished six years earlier, never to be heard from again. Just as he starts to piece his life back together, find new love, and think about his future again a mysterious woman arrives at what was once his old home, in a panic wondering what happened to her home? Could it be that Brie is finally back? If so, where has she been all this time? The camera footage from Andrew's former neighbor is fuzzy, but the woman does somewhat resemble Brie. Despite this, Andrew is skeptical...but why? Does he have reason to believe Brie could never really return home? Brie's family definitely suspects he does, especially her sister Isabel, who has always suspected he was involved somehow.
As the mystery into who this woman is, and what happened to Brie all those years earlier unfolded, I was simply put, riveted. I could not put this book down! There were so many twists to the mystery element, I was eagerly turning the pages, anticipating the reveal. In no way, was I even remotely close to predicting what was truly happening, and that's the sign of an incredible thriller/suspense that only Barclay could have written!
I think disclosing any more details would spoil this one, so I will just say it's worth reading, and I have no doubt at all this will be a big hit! Is it me, or does Barclay just seem to keep getting better with each release?! Fantastic work once again, Mr. Barclay!!!
July 14, 2022
Why have I not read a Linwood Barclay novel before? Because this was
fantastic!
And based on quick glances at his other work, this isn't even considered his best.
This was a gripping thriller that I devoured in mostly one day. I cancelled plans and skipped the gym to read this haha that's how riveting it was.
For me, it checked all the thriller boxes: intriguing mystery, expertly plotted, a whodunnit angle with a healthy list of suspects, red herrings, legitimate bread crumbs, multiple twists, fast-paced, short chapters, and a believable, satisfying ending.
So why not the full 5 stars? In the beginning, we learn Brie is kidnapped and 6 years later is, by most accounts, presumed dead. Suddenly, she appears at her old home wondering why it looks different and a new family occupies it. GREAT premise, and full of intrigue. But I never got to know Brie. And because I didn't know her, I started to wonder why I was supposed to care so much about her. It didn't help that our MC, her husband Andrew, was about as dry and bland as unseasoned meat. To me, he was neither likable nor unlikable.
My second gripe is trivial, but the title comes across a bit... pretentious? Arrogant? Somebody check me if I'm wrong, but the goal of all thrillers is to hit you with a surprise ending that "takes your breath away." I really liked this and thought it was well-executed, but wouldn't say the ending made me gasp out loud. Just seems like it's a shot an author probably shouldn't take. Even though I'd love to see a polarizing author (Riley Sager maybe??) announce their upcoming newest title to be "The Best Book You'll Ever Read" and watch the internet lose their shit 🤣
This was a gripping thriller that I devoured in mostly one day. I cancelled plans and skipped the gym to read this haha that's how riveting it was.
For me, it checked all the thriller boxes: intriguing mystery, expertly plotted, a whodunnit angle with a healthy list of suspects, red herrings, legitimate bread crumbs, multiple twists, fast-paced, short chapters, and a believable, satisfying ending.
So why not the full 5 stars? In the beginning, we learn Brie is kidnapped and 6 years later is, by most accounts, presumed dead. Suddenly, she appears at her old home wondering why it looks different and a new family occupies it. GREAT premise, and full of intrigue. But I never got to know Brie. And because I didn't know her, I started to wonder why I was supposed to care so much about her. It didn't help that our MC, her husband Andrew, was about as dry and bland as unseasoned meat. To me, he was neither likable nor unlikable.
My second gripe is trivial, but the title comes across a bit... pretentious? Arrogant? Somebody check me if I'm wrong, but the goal of all thrillers is to hit you with a surprise ending that "takes your breath away." I really liked this and thought it was well-executed, but wouldn't say the ending made me gasp out loud. Just seems like it's a shot an author probably shouldn't take. Even though I'd love to see a polarizing author (Riley Sager maybe??) announce their upcoming newest title to be "The Best Book You'll Ever Read" and watch the internet lose their shit 🤣
August 22, 2022
"Take Your Breath Away" took my breath away.
It was a fast-paced and solid "Missing Wife/Whodunnit?" book that had ample twists, turns, and red herrings.
Author Linwood Barclay and I go waaay back. I read Linwood Barclay's "No Time for Goodbye" in 2008 and instantly became a devoted fan, voraciously devouring the author's subsequent releases.
Although Linwood Barclay's three most recent books were disappointing reads, "Take Your Breath Away" is proof that this talented author has not lost his mojo.
I listened to the full-cast audiobook and all of the narrators did an outstanding job.
4.5 stars
It was a fast-paced and solid "Missing Wife/Whodunnit?" book that had ample twists, turns, and red herrings.
Author Linwood Barclay and I go waaay back. I read Linwood Barclay's "No Time for Goodbye" in 2008 and instantly became a devoted fan, voraciously devouring the author's subsequent releases.
Although Linwood Barclay's three most recent books were disappointing reads, "Take Your Breath Away" is proof that this talented author has not lost his mojo.
I listened to the full-cast audiobook and all of the narrators did an outstanding job.
4.5 stars
November 26, 2023
Another thrilling and gripping book by Linwood Barclay! This is how you do it! I loved the twists, the secrets, the drama, the finger pointing and the revelations in this book!
Andrew Mason came home from a fishing trip and found that his wife, Brie, had vanished without a trace. Everyone assumed Andrew was responsible for whatever happened to her but without proof, Andrew was left to wallow in his grief, drinking way too much and almost losing his business. Friends and clients scattered but eventually Andrew bounced back. Six years later, Andrew has moved and is in a relationship with Jayne. Everything is great until a woman who looks like Brie, shows up wanting to know what happened to her house. Now everyone is pointing fingers once again. Is Brie back?
This was a fun one. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was wonderful. I had so many questions going through my mind while listening. I wanted to know what happened to Brie. I questioned who could be trusted and came up with my own theories. I was wrong, wrong, wrong. I love it when this happens. Barclay shocked me with the reveal!
I loved how Andrew set out to find out what happened to Brie to not only clear his name but to have closure. He won’t be alone while searching for answers. Detective Marissa Hardy is hot on the what-happened-to-Brie trail as well.
I loved the drama, the tension and mounting sense of danger. I also had fun doing my own super sleuthing as well, which as I mentioned did not turn out so well for me. This book had a nice number of twists, turns, reveals and shocking moments.
This fabulous book made a 12-hour car ride tolerable and has me wanting to read another Barclay book asap!
Well written, well thought out, tense, dramatic, and suspenseful.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Andrew Mason came home from a fishing trip and found that his wife, Brie, had vanished without a trace. Everyone assumed Andrew was responsible for whatever happened to her but without proof, Andrew was left to wallow in his grief, drinking way too much and almost losing his business. Friends and clients scattered but eventually Andrew bounced back. Six years later, Andrew has moved and is in a relationship with Jayne. Everything is great until a woman who looks like Brie, shows up wanting to know what happened to her house. Now everyone is pointing fingers once again. Is Brie back?
This was a fun one. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was wonderful. I had so many questions going through my mind while listening. I wanted to know what happened to Brie. I questioned who could be trusted and came up with my own theories. I was wrong, wrong, wrong. I love it when this happens. Barclay shocked me with the reveal!
I loved how Andrew set out to find out what happened to Brie to not only clear his name but to have closure. He won’t be alone while searching for answers. Detective Marissa Hardy is hot on the what-happened-to-Brie trail as well.
I loved the drama, the tension and mounting sense of danger. I also had fun doing my own super sleuthing as well, which as I mentioned did not turn out so well for me. This book had a nice number of twists, turns, reveals and shocking moments.
This fabulous book made a 12-hour car ride tolerable and has me wanting to read another Barclay book asap!
Well written, well thought out, tense, dramatic, and suspenseful.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
February 3, 2022
Thank you Harlequin Australia for sending me this book to review.
This book was compulsive reading. I couldn't put it down, it was my first book by Linwood and it certainly wont be my last ! Feel free to recommend any of his books to me they are on my wishlist already.! He is the king of suspense and now I know why.
This book moved at a very fast pace and kept me hanging at the end of every chapter.
I felt the characters were very well created. So many characters involved in the storyline. You were suspicious of each and everyone of them and their motives.
This book is read as a standalone.
The actual plot is about a woman who goes missing 6 years ago and suddenly people are starting to see her around town. How could that be? There were many people with motives to get rid of her. This book is all about secrets and most of them are hiding something.
So many twists and turns in this book, you will be pulled one way and then another. This book was very unpredictable for me and thats the way I liked it. Each chapter is narrated by different characters and they are short chapters which makes the book interesting.
This book will have you guessing who it is right until the last chapter.
This book was compulsive reading. I couldn't put it down, it was my first book by Linwood and it certainly wont be my last ! Feel free to recommend any of his books to me they are on my wishlist already.! He is the king of suspense and now I know why.
This book moved at a very fast pace and kept me hanging at the end of every chapter.
I felt the characters were very well created. So many characters involved in the storyline. You were suspicious of each and everyone of them and their motives.
This book is read as a standalone.
The actual plot is about a woman who goes missing 6 years ago and suddenly people are starting to see her around town. How could that be? There were many people with motives to get rid of her. This book is all about secrets and most of them are hiding something.
So many twists and turns in this book, you will be pulled one way and then another. This book was very unpredictable for me and thats the way I liked it. Each chapter is narrated by different characters and they are short chapters which makes the book interesting.
This book will have you guessing who it is right until the last chapter.
September 13, 2022
Take Your Breath Away was the first book/audiobook that I had the pleasure of reading by Linwood Barclays. I was very impressed by how he captured my full attention immediately as I began listening to this clever and suspenseful crime thriller audiobook. The audiobook was amazing as it had multiple narrators whose talents drew me into the suspenseful plot immediately. Linwood Barclay’s talent as a masterful storyteller shone throughout his book. He was able to build on the elements of doubt, fear, hope, suspicions, smoke and mirrors, suspense and lots of twists. I thought I had this all figured out several times only to be met with another twist which proved my theory wrong. Take Your Breath Away was so addictive. I could not stop listening to it.
Six years ago, Brie Mason, a daughter, sister and wife, suddenly disappeared one night while her husband Andrew was away on a fishing trip with one of his closest friends and business partner. At the time, Andrew was viewed as the number one suspect. The husband was always considered the most likely to be the one to have committed the crime when it was the wife who was the victim. Andrew’s life became a living nightmare! He never faltered, though. He maintained his innocence throughout the entire ordeal.
Now, six years later, Brie Mason, was spotted at the house she and Andrew had shared and lived in six years ago. The house, though, was not the same. The old house had been knocked down and a new one built in its place. Andrew’s and Brie’s neighbor happened to be outside his own home when a woman that resembled Brie parked her black Volvo SUV on the driveway of the home she once lived in. When she was told that her home had been sold, knocked down and rebuilt, the woman who appeared to be Brie freaked out and dropped all the groceries she was carrying, got back in her car and vanished once more. The neighbor that witnessed this made two phone calls. He called Brie’s husband, Andrew and Detective Marissa Hardy, the detective who had investigated Brie’s disappearance six years ago. Could this woman have been Brie? Where had she been for these past six years? Would Andrew’s life become a living nightmare again?
I really enjoyed Take Your Breath Away and highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The multiple narrators really brought this book to life. I am glad that I discovered Linwood Barclay and will definitely look for more of his books. I highly recommend this book.
Six years ago, Brie Mason, a daughter, sister and wife, suddenly disappeared one night while her husband Andrew was away on a fishing trip with one of his closest friends and business partner. At the time, Andrew was viewed as the number one suspect. The husband was always considered the most likely to be the one to have committed the crime when it was the wife who was the victim. Andrew’s life became a living nightmare! He never faltered, though. He maintained his innocence throughout the entire ordeal.
Now, six years later, Brie Mason, was spotted at the house she and Andrew had shared and lived in six years ago. The house, though, was not the same. The old house had been knocked down and a new one built in its place. Andrew’s and Brie’s neighbor happened to be outside his own home when a woman that resembled Brie parked her black Volvo SUV on the driveway of the home she once lived in. When she was told that her home had been sold, knocked down and rebuilt, the woman who appeared to be Brie freaked out and dropped all the groceries she was carrying, got back in her car and vanished once more. The neighbor that witnessed this made two phone calls. He called Brie’s husband, Andrew and Detective Marissa Hardy, the detective who had investigated Brie’s disappearance six years ago. Could this woman have been Brie? Where had she been for these past six years? Would Andrew’s life become a living nightmare again?
I really enjoyed Take Your Breath Away and highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The multiple narrators really brought this book to life. I am glad that I discovered Linwood Barclay and will definitely look for more of his books. I highly recommend this book.
August 2, 2022
Review first posted on mysteryandsuspense.com
A wife goes missing, but why? It’s all shrouded in secrets and lies.
Andrew is away at his cabin by the lake, fishing with his best friend and business partner Greg, leaving Brie at their Connecticut home for the weekend. But when he returns there is no sign of his wife. It’s a mystery that is to cast suspicion on Andrew – there had been some recent challenges to their relationship – and ultimately lead to his moving out of the town in which they’d lived and even changing his name in an effort to hide from those who would casts aspersions. Then six years later, in the area she once lived, there are sightings of a woman whose appearance is strikingly similar to Brie. Could it be that she’s somehow returned?
In addition to Andrew and Greg, the cast of characters includes Detective Marissa Hardy, who investigated the original disappearance – a humourless woman who strongly suspects that Andrew murdered Brie and disposed of the body – and members of Brie’s family. Brie’s mother is now terminally ill and is tended by her doting son and more infrequently by her bitter and vindictive daughter, who shares Hardy’s view of how things surely played out. Andrew has now set up home in a different town nearby, where he lives with his girlfriend and her troubled younger brother. Lives are complicated, there are strained marriages, career frustrations and unfulfilled ambitions. And amongst it all there is now this new mystery.
Andrew’s life has spiralled downward since Brie’s disappearance, at first he took to drinking too much and along the way he and Greg dissolved their partnership. Perhaps the core of the problems he had been having with Brie is that he’d been a fixer-upper of houses and they were continually living in a property that was in a state of semi-completion as Andrew prepared to flip it and move on to the next one, only to do it all over again. These days he is constantly on the chase to find the next job.
Barclay tells the story very cleverly, segmenting it in a way that the perspective seems to be ever changing. Andrew is forced to fight to save his new relationship as revelations re-surface and doubts and suspicions are aroused. Hardy is also back on the scene, snooping and sniping, whilst Brie’s bickering family alternate between hope and renewed bouts of grieving. It’s hard to know what’s going on. But then all starts to become clear as pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place, and in a dramatic finish it suddenly all comes together.
It’s a story that kept me guessing and retained my interest throughout, a conjuring trick of a novel in which nothing really made sense until it all did. Is it all ultimately believable? Well, perhaps not. But it’s definitely entertaining.
A wife goes missing, but why? It’s all shrouded in secrets and lies.
Andrew is away at his cabin by the lake, fishing with his best friend and business partner Greg, leaving Brie at their Connecticut home for the weekend. But when he returns there is no sign of his wife. It’s a mystery that is to cast suspicion on Andrew – there had been some recent challenges to their relationship – and ultimately lead to his moving out of the town in which they’d lived and even changing his name in an effort to hide from those who would casts aspersions. Then six years later, in the area she once lived, there are sightings of a woman whose appearance is strikingly similar to Brie. Could it be that she’s somehow returned?
In addition to Andrew and Greg, the cast of characters includes Detective Marissa Hardy, who investigated the original disappearance – a humourless woman who strongly suspects that Andrew murdered Brie and disposed of the body – and members of Brie’s family. Brie’s mother is now terminally ill and is tended by her doting son and more infrequently by her bitter and vindictive daughter, who shares Hardy’s view of how things surely played out. Andrew has now set up home in a different town nearby, where he lives with his girlfriend and her troubled younger brother. Lives are complicated, there are strained marriages, career frustrations and unfulfilled ambitions. And amongst it all there is now this new mystery.
Andrew’s life has spiralled downward since Brie’s disappearance, at first he took to drinking too much and along the way he and Greg dissolved their partnership. Perhaps the core of the problems he had been having with Brie is that he’d been a fixer-upper of houses and they were continually living in a property that was in a state of semi-completion as Andrew prepared to flip it and move on to the next one, only to do it all over again. These days he is constantly on the chase to find the next job.
Barclay tells the story very cleverly, segmenting it in a way that the perspective seems to be ever changing. Andrew is forced to fight to save his new relationship as revelations re-surface and doubts and suspicions are aroused. Hardy is also back on the scene, snooping and sniping, whilst Brie’s bickering family alternate between hope and renewed bouts of grieving. It’s hard to know what’s going on. But then all starts to become clear as pieces of the puzzle begin to fall into place, and in a dramatic finish it suddenly all comes together.
It’s a story that kept me guessing and retained my interest throughout, a conjuring trick of a novel in which nothing really made sense until it all did. Is it all ultimately believable? Well, perhaps not. But it’s definitely entertaining.
December 19, 2021
I have always thought of Linwood Barclay as one of my favourite authors but lately I have struggled with some of his offerings. This one for me showed a lot of promise and there were certainly some parts that I enjoyed but overall thought it rated 3.5. I felt the plot dragged a little and it never really held me like many of the authors other novels.
Brie Mason disappeared without trace while her husband Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, which led to many assuming that he had something to do with it. The police suspected murder but their investigations failed to result in any charges been made. Andy’s life suffered and he was drinking far too much, his friends deserted him and he almost lost his business.
Six years on and Andy is in a far better place, the home he shared with Brie is sold and he is trying to make a new life with his new partner Jayne. Andy wasn’t bothered when his old house was knocked down and a new house built as he was trying to rebuild his life.
But when a woman with a strong resemblance to Brie turns up at his old address his life is thrown into turmoil. The woman makes a commotion, screaming ‘Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?’ and then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman is gone. The police are notified and old questions and suspicions once again resurface. Is Brie alive after no trace for six years and what affect will it have on Andy and his new life. He needs answers before his life hits rock bottom again.
I would like to thank Netgalley and HQ for supplying this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Brie Mason disappeared without trace while her husband Andrew Mason was on a fishing trip, which led to many assuming that he had something to do with it. The police suspected murder but their investigations failed to result in any charges been made. Andy’s life suffered and he was drinking far too much, his friends deserted him and he almost lost his business.
Six years on and Andy is in a far better place, the home he shared with Brie is sold and he is trying to make a new life with his new partner Jayne. Andy wasn’t bothered when his old house was knocked down and a new house built as he was trying to rebuild his life.
But when a woman with a strong resemblance to Brie turns up at his old address his life is thrown into turmoil. The woman makes a commotion, screaming ‘Where’s my house? What’s happened to my house?’ and then, just as suddenly as she appeared, the woman is gone. The police are notified and old questions and suspicions once again resurface. Is Brie alive after no trace for six years and what affect will it have on Andy and his new life. He needs answers before his life hits rock bottom again.
I would like to thank Netgalley and HQ for supplying this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2022
What actually happened to Brie Mason?
Was she really seen at her old home, in the hospital parking lot, and in her mother's hospital room after her disappearance six years ago and after being declared dead?
No one knows for sure because the photos they captured on security cameras are too blurry, she was too far away when she was recognized, and her dying mother wasn't the best person to believe she had talked to Brie.
These sightings brought the pain and questions back for the police and especially Andrew.
How could this be happening? He has a new life, a new name, a new girlfriend, and a baby on the way.
The police still considered Andrew the prime suspect, but there was no evidence to prove he was guilty.
There definitely are many characters who could be suspects, but Mr. Barclay keeps us guessing and in the dark as he leaves his thoughts hanging at the end of the chapters and leaves us thinking it seemingly could be anyone one who killed Brie or kept her away for those six years.
Then we meet another shady character...then more twists happen....then it gets tense...then your jaw will drop.
TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY won’t disappoint Mr. Barclay’s fans.
Do you think you will be able to figure out what happened?
Let everyone know if you do. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher for an honest review.
Was she really seen at her old home, in the hospital parking lot, and in her mother's hospital room after her disappearance six years ago and after being declared dead?
No one knows for sure because the photos they captured on security cameras are too blurry, she was too far away when she was recognized, and her dying mother wasn't the best person to believe she had talked to Brie.
These sightings brought the pain and questions back for the police and especially Andrew.
How could this be happening? He has a new life, a new name, a new girlfriend, and a baby on the way.
The police still considered Andrew the prime suspect, but there was no evidence to prove he was guilty.
There definitely are many characters who could be suspects, but Mr. Barclay keeps us guessing and in the dark as he leaves his thoughts hanging at the end of the chapters and leaves us thinking it seemingly could be anyone one who killed Brie or kept her away for those six years.
Then we meet another shady character...then more twists happen....then it gets tense...then your jaw will drop.
TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY won’t disappoint Mr. Barclay’s fans.
Do you think you will be able to figure out what happened?
Let everyone know if you do. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher for an honest review.
January 30, 2022
It’s always the husband isn’t it?
The cliche exists because in many cases it’s true - but is it true in this case? Six years ago Andrew (Andy) Mason went away to his lakeside cabin with his best friend and business partner, Greg, for a weekend of fishing and chilling. His wife, Brie, called him on the Saturday night. When Andy got home on Sunday his wife was nowhere to be found. Despite Andy having an alibi, Detective Marissa Hardy was convinced Andy had killed his wife and disposed of her body. But without any definitive proof she could do nothing.
Eventually Andy sold the house, moved away, changed his name and started a new relationship with Jayne. But then it appears that Brie is back. A woman looking very much like Brie drives up to the old address, unloads some groceries and then yells where is my house? The new owners had razed the old house and built a modern edifice on the site. Footage from the doorbell cam is grainy but it certainly looks like Brie.
There is another sighting soon after. Brie’s mother is in palliative care and her other children Albert and Izzy along with Norman, Izzy’s husband see a woman from the hospital window. She looks at them and waves. By the time they race down to the car park she is gone. Detective Hardy doesn’t know what to make of it and Andy is thrown. Of course he hasn’t told Jayne anything about Brie and her disappearance yet.
However the re-emergence of Brie does make some people very uncomfortable and the pace really picks up as everybody scrambles to work out - is it really Brie? And what are the implications for them? There are many secrets to come out and dangers to confront.
This story is classic Barclay - ordinary people confronting extraordinary circumstances. He puts his characters through the wringer and I can’t get enough of it! Andy seemed like a really great guy and Izzy was a harradin. Norman was a saint for putting up with her. Greg was the best friend we could all use. Albert frustrated in his job and yearning to write. It turns out that some of them are not as they seem. This was an enjoyable, escapist read! Many thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Australia for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
The cliche exists because in many cases it’s true - but is it true in this case? Six years ago Andrew (Andy) Mason went away to his lakeside cabin with his best friend and business partner, Greg, for a weekend of fishing and chilling. His wife, Brie, called him on the Saturday night. When Andy got home on Sunday his wife was nowhere to be found. Despite Andy having an alibi, Detective Marissa Hardy was convinced Andy had killed his wife and disposed of her body. But without any definitive proof she could do nothing.
Eventually Andy sold the house, moved away, changed his name and started a new relationship with Jayne. But then it appears that Brie is back. A woman looking very much like Brie drives up to the old address, unloads some groceries and then yells where is my house? The new owners had razed the old house and built a modern edifice on the site. Footage from the doorbell cam is grainy but it certainly looks like Brie.
There is another sighting soon after. Brie’s mother is in palliative care and her other children Albert and Izzy along with Norman, Izzy’s husband see a woman from the hospital window. She looks at them and waves. By the time they race down to the car park she is gone. Detective Hardy doesn’t know what to make of it and Andy is thrown. Of course he hasn’t told Jayne anything about Brie and her disappearance yet.
However the re-emergence of Brie does make some people very uncomfortable and the pace really picks up as everybody scrambles to work out - is it really Brie? And what are the implications for them? There are many secrets to come out and dangers to confront.
This story is classic Barclay - ordinary people confronting extraordinary circumstances. He puts his characters through the wringer and I can’t get enough of it! Andy seemed like a really great guy and Izzy was a harradin. Norman was a saint for putting up with her. Greg was the best friend we could all use. Albert frustrated in his job and yearning to write. It turns out that some of them are not as they seem. This was an enjoyable, escapist read! Many thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Australia for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
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