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Lacey Flint #2
Dead Scared
'Bolton is hot property in crime fiction right now' Stylist Magazine
'Mesmerising' The Times
A series of suicides. Each one a female university student. Each one more horrifying than the last.
The police know it cannot be coincidence. But they can’t prove it.
They need someone to go undercover. A young policewoman, as vulnerable as the others. As unprepared for the nightmare that will greet her.
Watch your back, Lacey Flint . . .
'Mesmerising' The Times
A series of suicides. Each one a female university student. Each one more horrifying than the last.
The police know it cannot be coincidence. But they can’t prove it.
They need someone to go undercover. A young policewoman, as vulnerable as the others. As unprepared for the nightmare that will greet her.
Watch your back, Lacey Flint . . .
464 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Sharon J. Bolton
42 books4,335 followersSharon's newest book The Split is now available in both hardback and paperback in the UK!
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Split-grippi...
Sharon J Bolton was born and brought up in Lancashire, the eldest of three daughters. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an actress and a dancer, studying ballet, tap and jazz from a young age and reading drama at Loughborough University.
She spent her early career in marketing and PR before returning to full-time education to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Warwick University, where she met her husband, Andrew. They moved to London and Sharon held a number of PR posts in the City. She left the City to work freelance, to start a family and to write.
She and Andrew now live in a village in the Chiltern Hills, not far from Oxford, with their son and the latest addition to the family: Lupe, the lop-eared lurcher. Her daily life revolves around the school run, walking the dog and those ever-looming publishing deadlines.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Split-grippi...
Sharon J Bolton was born and brought up in Lancashire, the eldest of three daughters. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an actress and a dancer, studying ballet, tap and jazz from a young age and reading drama at Loughborough University.
She spent her early career in marketing and PR before returning to full-time education to study for a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) at Warwick University, where she met her husband, Andrew. They moved to London and Sharon held a number of PR posts in the City. She left the City to work freelance, to start a family and to write.
She and Andrew now live in a village in the Chiltern Hills, not far from Oxford, with their son and the latest addition to the family: Lupe, the lop-eared lurcher. Her daily life revolves around the school run, walking the dog and those ever-looming publishing deadlines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,126 reviews
June 18, 2016
Gosh, I can’t believe it took me this long to get back to Sharon Bolton’s brilliant Lacey Flint series. In 2014 the first book in the series, Now You See Me, was my top read of the year (and I read a lot of books). Not only that, but it introduced me to the amazing world of British thrillers, which have become my absolute favorite subgenre.
This book is a fabulously intricate piece of work. At this point, after reading 4 books by the outstanding Ms. Bolton, I actually expect nothing less. There is an alarming rate of suicides plaguing the Cambridge campus in Great Britain. What is going on? Are they connected in some manner? Is foul play possibly involved? Lacey is sent in undercover and makes some astonishing discoveries. There is a fairly large cast of players, most of who fall under suspicion at one time or another. I actually took notes, which I rarely do, in my determined effort to finally outsmart Ms. Bolton. Sadly (actually I loved to be tripped up, I can’t lie), I failed once again. The clues are there, but even without a lot of red herrings, the author weaves them so skillfully into the overall narrative that you really have to be on your toes to ferret them out (again, a good thing). If you decide you are up for the challenge of besting Ms. Bolton, there will be no skimming and no multitasking while reading this book.
There is much I liked. The pace is relentless. The tension is high. The atmosphere is crazy-ass sinister and downright scary. I was doing a buddy read and it was almost painful to have to put the book down as compelling as it was. Character development, especially that of Lacey and Evi, is first rate. There are some very interesting discussions of a psychological and pharmacological nature, which are fascinating and reflect some heavy-duty research by the author. I also want to mention that there are many curious happenings in this tale, which the reader is challenged to pull all together. I loved the ending.
There is only one thing I didn’t like about Dead Scared. It showed one of my very favorite protagonists in a state of overwhelming weakness (not a spoiler as this takes place in the prologue), which made me think Lacey had totally lost it. It made me feel badly in an indescribable sort of way. Of course, this was very necessary for the story, so I forgive Ms. Bolton.
I will definitely continue with this series and the author’s stand alones, but will take my time in order to savor them. Sharon Bolton remains, in my opinion, a very unheralded master of the thriller genre and is one of my top 2-3 favorite authors of all time. If you have not read any of her works, grab yourself a copy of Now You See Me, stat! You can thank me later. (-:
As highly recommended as possible.
This book is a fabulously intricate piece of work. At this point, after reading 4 books by the outstanding Ms. Bolton, I actually expect nothing less. There is an alarming rate of suicides plaguing the Cambridge campus in Great Britain. What is going on? Are they connected in some manner? Is foul play possibly involved? Lacey is sent in undercover and makes some astonishing discoveries. There is a fairly large cast of players, most of who fall under suspicion at one time or another. I actually took notes, which I rarely do, in my determined effort to finally outsmart Ms. Bolton. Sadly (actually I loved to be tripped up, I can’t lie), I failed once again. The clues are there, but even without a lot of red herrings, the author weaves them so skillfully into the overall narrative that you really have to be on your toes to ferret them out (again, a good thing). If you decide you are up for the challenge of besting Ms. Bolton, there will be no skimming and no multitasking while reading this book.
There is much I liked. The pace is relentless. The tension is high. The atmosphere is crazy-ass sinister and downright scary. I was doing a buddy read and it was almost painful to have to put the book down as compelling as it was. Character development, especially that of Lacey and Evi, is first rate. There are some very interesting discussions of a psychological and pharmacological nature, which are fascinating and reflect some heavy-duty research by the author. I also want to mention that there are many curious happenings in this tale, which the reader is challenged to pull all together. I loved the ending.
There is only one thing I didn’t like about Dead Scared. It showed one of my very favorite protagonists in a state of overwhelming weakness (not a spoiler as this takes place in the prologue), which made me think Lacey had totally lost it. It made me feel badly in an indescribable sort of way. Of course, this was very necessary for the story, so I forgive Ms. Bolton.
I will definitely continue with this series and the author’s stand alones, but will take my time in order to savor them. Sharon Bolton remains, in my opinion, a very unheralded master of the thriller genre and is one of my top 2-3 favorite authors of all time. If you have not read any of her works, grab yourself a copy of Now You See Me, stat! You can thank me later. (-:
As highly recommended as possible.
May 13, 2022
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: 3/5
THE PLOT
Lacey Flint is back and this time she's an undercover mature student at Cambridge University. She's supposed just be a "good looking fruitcake" according to DI Mark Joesbury, but as she digs deeper into the rash of supposed suicides, she can't help but to conduct her own investigation with the resident psychologist, Dr. Evi.
MY OPINION
Welp. This wasn't her best, that's for sure. The writing quality is still there—along with her trademark quirky humour and wit, but the characters were far too obtuse for my liking. In fact, if Lacey aka Laura and Evi had just communicated all the spooky shit going down, this mystery would've been wrapped up in about 5 mins. Instead, the characters flounder and circle about, not following up on crucial clues or sharing key information, dragging this story out far too long.
For example, Evi continues to live in her home despite it being broken into multiple times. Her emails are disappearing. Her phones won't stop ringing. All gucci though, let's continue to be a sitting duck.
And then Lacey. GWORL. Burnt to a crispy Byron gives you some pertinent info and you're like.. can't be him because I want him to clap my cheeks. Sorry, Byron, try again. Give me a name of someone I actually don't like.
Endings seem to be Bolton's weak spot. This whole suicide scheme was contrived beyond belief. If you thought the villain in The Good Samaritan was sick... this group are 10x worse. It is truly deplorable... and unhinged... but to the point where you not only have to suspend your disbelief but yeet it off a mountaintop if you want to enjoy this.
But guess what? I'm still gonna read her books. The writing quality, pacing, and flow of the story keeps me engaged, even when her characters are acting like Grade A dumbasses.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well paced, crazy premise, quirky humour, I always learn something new when I read her books—this time it was about falconing and how fast a body plummets :0
Cons: characters were too obtuse for my liking, intentionally drawing out the storyline, ending was HUH and overly contrived (as if just plain ole contrived isn't enough)
THE PLOT
Lacey Flint is back and this time she's an undercover mature student at Cambridge University. She's supposed just be a "good looking fruitcake" according to DI Mark Joesbury, but as she digs deeper into the rash of supposed suicides, she can't help but to conduct her own investigation with the resident psychologist, Dr. Evi.
MY OPINION
Welp. This wasn't her best, that's for sure. The writing quality is still there—along with her trademark quirky humour and wit, but the characters were far too obtuse for my liking. In fact, if Lacey aka Laura and Evi had just communicated all the spooky shit going down, this mystery would've been wrapped up in about 5 mins. Instead, the characters flounder and circle about, not following up on crucial clues or sharing key information, dragging this story out far too long.
For example, Evi continues to live in her home despite it being broken into multiple times. Her emails are disappearing. Her phones won't stop ringing. All gucci though, let's continue to be a sitting duck.
And then Lacey. GWORL. Burnt to a crispy Byron gives you some pertinent info and you're like.. can't be him because I want him to clap my cheeks. Sorry, Byron, try again. Give me a name of someone I actually don't like.
Endings seem to be Bolton's weak spot. This whole suicide scheme was contrived beyond belief. If you thought the villain in The Good Samaritan was sick... this group are 10x worse. It is truly deplorable... and unhinged... but to the point where you not only have to suspend your disbelief but yeet it off a mountaintop if you want to enjoy this.
But guess what? I'm still gonna read her books. The writing quality, pacing, and flow of the story keeps me engaged, even when her characters are acting like Grade A dumbasses.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well paced, crazy premise, quirky humour, I always learn something new when I read her books—this time it was about falconing and how fast a body plummets :0
Cons: characters were too obtuse for my liking, intentionally drawing out the storyline, ending was HUH and overly contrived (as if just plain ole contrived isn't enough)
November 27, 2015
Holy cliff hanger Batman!
Another fantastic Lacey Flint novel. This story focuses around a series of suicides that are suspected to be something far more sinister. Once again, many twists and turns. These novels are dark and graphic but somehow the British quips and humor keep it feeling a little lighter than others such as Karin Slaughter's novels. I'm ready to race off and get book #3!
Another fantastic Lacey Flint novel. This story focuses around a series of suicides that are suspected to be something far more sinister. Once again, many twists and turns. These novels are dark and graphic but somehow the British quips and humor keep it feeling a little lighter than others such as Karin Slaughter's novels. I'm ready to race off and get book #3!
August 6, 2012
Well, it was bound to happen...a S.J. Bolton book that I wasn't wild about. Obviously, my 3 star rating is still within the Goodreads "Liked It" range, but after voraciously reading every other book she's penned and eagerly awaiting this offering, I was let down in the final analysis.
First to the good:
Bolton is a master of the new gothic novel. This isn't your mother's Mary Stewart. Bolton's heroines have issues . They aren't usually ladies . They struggle with more problems then having to navigate Grecian hillsides or French woodlands in a pencil skirt and 3 inch heels. My old-fashioned side adores Stewart and all her suave heroes and intelligent heroines, but there's also enough of the modern in me to appreciate the gritty realism that Bolton brings to the gothic table. In this respect, she doesn't disappoint. The plotline is dark and (in the word of my GR friend Jackleen, disturbing). If you have teen children already in college or getting close to it, this story will effect you in a bad way.
Now to the not-so-good:
This particular story wasn't as well executed or characterized as her other novels IMO. While it is an continuation of Bolton's Now You See Me to a primary degree as well as Blood Harvest to a lesser degree, the writing doesn't feel as fine tuned or engaging as those novels. Part of it has to do with Bolton's decision to tell this story in a series of short chapters, with constantly changing POVs (first person, third person) by various characters. There are also several flashback chapters interspersed throughout. The short, choppy chapters and the POV changes were hard for me to follow and didn't help the story flow smoothly. But my biggest gripe with this book (and perhaps a personal one that might not be shared with other readers) was the evolving relationship between her two lead characters (Flint and Joesbury). While their relationship in Now You See Me had potential and was realistic, I felt it became very shallow and juvenile in nature in this book. Their dialogue seemed like something out of a YA novel (not a bad thing if it was a YA novel, but it wasn't). These are two adult, career-professional cops, and it seemed to me as if they were acting like 16 year olds. Given the creepy, disturbing nature of the story, this feature seemed so out of place that it took me out of the story too many times. Finally, the ending seemed truncated. The build-up, the tension, the climax, and then....THE END. What? Was that it? A very disappointing conclusion.
While Dead Scared wasn't the thriller I had anticipated, it was still a decent read and it won't keep me from eagerly anticipating Bolton's next novel. Here's hoping the next one's a stand alone with fresh characters and a new creepy plotline.
First to the good:
Bolton is a master of the new gothic novel. This isn't your mother's Mary Stewart. Bolton's heroines have issues . They aren't usually ladies . They struggle with more problems then having to navigate Grecian hillsides or French woodlands in a pencil skirt and 3 inch heels. My old-fashioned side adores Stewart and all her suave heroes and intelligent heroines, but there's also enough of the modern in me to appreciate the gritty realism that Bolton brings to the gothic table. In this respect, she doesn't disappoint. The plotline is dark and (in the word of my GR friend Jackleen, disturbing). If you have teen children already in college or getting close to it, this story will effect you in a bad way.
Now to the not-so-good:
This particular story wasn't as well executed or characterized as her other novels IMO. While it is an continuation of Bolton's Now You See Me to a primary degree as well as Blood Harvest to a lesser degree, the writing doesn't feel as fine tuned or engaging as those novels. Part of it has to do with Bolton's decision to tell this story in a series of short chapters, with constantly changing POVs (first person, third person) by various characters. There are also several flashback chapters interspersed throughout. The short, choppy chapters and the POV changes were hard for me to follow and didn't help the story flow smoothly. But my biggest gripe with this book (and perhaps a personal one that might not be shared with other readers) was the evolving relationship between her two lead characters (Flint and Joesbury). While their relationship in Now You See Me had potential and was realistic, I felt it became very shallow and juvenile in nature in this book. Their dialogue seemed like something out of a YA novel (not a bad thing if it was a YA novel, but it wasn't). These are two adult, career-professional cops, and it seemed to me as if they were acting like 16 year olds. Given the creepy, disturbing nature of the story, this feature seemed so out of place that it took me out of the story too many times. Finally, the ending seemed truncated. The build-up, the tension, the climax, and then....THE END. What? Was that it? A very disappointing conclusion.
While Dead Scared wasn't the thriller I had anticipated, it was still a decent read and it won't keep me from eagerly anticipating Bolton's next novel. Here's hoping the next one's a stand alone with fresh characters and a new creepy plotline.
January 2, 2016
Wow! I just love Lacey Flint! I love Mark Joesbury also! The author sure did a great job in developing her characters! It kept me guessing that is for sure. There were a lot of suicides and they both were trying to find out why the students of Cambridge were killing themselves. I did love the first one better! This one is a great book also. The suspense takes off from the beginning. I definitely can't wait to read the next one! I love when I read a book and fall over heels for the characters. This book rocked!
October 27, 2016
Dead Scared is book 2 in the Lacy Flint series.
DI Mark Joesbury recruits DC Lacey Flint to go undercover at the Cambridge University as a student. There have been several suicides, but the London police aren't convinced that the victims acted alone. Could there be someone out there preying on insecure students? And, is Lacey herself being put in danger?
It was quite nice to return to this book series. The first book was good and I was interested in reading and learning more about Lacey, and, of course, Joesbury since they have a very deep connection. And, that connection is clearly still there as Joesbury has to worry throughout the book about Lacey's safety. I just love those two in the first book. Both are very fond of each other, but there are barriers between them.
What I really like about this series is that Lacey is such an interesting character, if you have read the first book will you know what I mean and if you haven't well all I will say is that she has been through a lot in her life. And, her past is perfect for her to play a vulnerable student, but it can also be extremely dangerous for her if the police are right and it's a killer out there trying to get vulnerable students.
The story was good, the case with suicides at a university didn't feel overused and I especially liked that, despite that I figured things out was I still surprised by the ending when certain things were revealed that I hadn't figured out. The book started with the ending and after that, it was a countdown through the days as the story progressed to the scene in the beginning of the book. I'm not always that fond of that kind storyline when we get a glimpse of what will happen at the ending of the book at the beginning, but in this case, it worked. And, that ending. Loved it. Although I felt that some things were left unresolved, but perhaps next book with deal with that. Still, wow what an ending!
You can probably read this without having read the first book. But to understand Lacey do I think reading the first book would be prudent.
4.5 stars
Read this review and others on A Bookaholic Swede
DI Mark Joesbury recruits DC Lacey Flint to go undercover at the Cambridge University as a student. There have been several suicides, but the London police aren't convinced that the victims acted alone. Could there be someone out there preying on insecure students? And, is Lacey herself being put in danger?
It was quite nice to return to this book series. The first book was good and I was interested in reading and learning more about Lacey, and, of course, Joesbury since they have a very deep connection. And, that connection is clearly still there as Joesbury has to worry throughout the book about Lacey's safety. I just love those two in the first book. Both are very fond of each other, but there are barriers between them.
What I really like about this series is that Lacey is such an interesting character, if you have read the first book will you know what I mean and if you haven't well all I will say is that she has been through a lot in her life. And, her past is perfect for her to play a vulnerable student, but it can also be extremely dangerous for her if the police are right and it's a killer out there trying to get vulnerable students.
The story was good, the case with suicides at a university didn't feel overused and I especially liked that, despite that I figured things out was I still surprised by the ending when certain things were revealed that I hadn't figured out. The book started with the ending and after that, it was a countdown through the days as the story progressed to the scene in the beginning of the book. I'm not always that fond of that kind storyline when we get a glimpse of what will happen at the ending of the book at the beginning, but in this case, it worked. And, that ending. Loved it. Although I felt that some things were left unresolved, but perhaps next book with deal with that. Still, wow what an ending!
You can probably read this without having read the first book. But to understand Lacey do I think reading the first book would be prudent.
4.5 stars
Read this review and others on A Bookaholic Swede
April 8, 2017
4.5****
Oh My Goodness, I love this series. It sits with me long after I finish the book. The first one was my favourite book of the year and this one left nothing to be desired. It also made me realize that like many women, I must be enthralled with a small romantic premise, because Joesbury and Flint have me all worked up for them to be together. Some people don't like this small bit of storyline in thrillers and action, a romance developing, but I have to say it makes me swoon here.
Fast paced, action packed and edge of your seat suspense. Never knowing which way this story is going to go, is what I call a great read. Thank you, Sharon Bolton and Lacey Flint. You have my attention.
Oh My Goodness, I love this series. It sits with me long after I finish the book. The first one was my favourite book of the year and this one left nothing to be desired. It also made me realize that like many women, I must be enthralled with a small romantic premise, because Joesbury and Flint have me all worked up for them to be together. Some people don't like this small bit of storyline in thrillers and action, a romance developing, but I have to say it makes me swoon here.
Fast paced, action packed and edge of your seat suspense. Never knowing which way this story is going to go, is what I call a great read. Thank you, Sharon Bolton and Lacey Flint. You have my attention.
February 24, 2017
Lacey Flint is back for the second installment of this series!
In DEAD SCARED Lacey Goes undercover at Cambridge university.
Her mission: The students of Cambridge have been dropping like flies- committing suicide in twisted, creative and suspicious ways. Lacey is asked by DI Mark Joesbury-(introduced in Now You See Me) to pose as a fragile, troubled student -if you read the first book in the series, you will realize, Lacey doesn't have to fake the fragile or troubled part- The only person inside the university who knows of her true intent and real identity is Dr. Evi Oliver-a wheelchair bound, teacher and counselor (introduced in Blood Harvest).
Ms. Flint is specifically told NOT to investigate these suicides by Mark Joesbury, but investigate she does. On her own, she quickly finds herself in way over her head, with Evi Oliver being her only friend and lifeline inside.
DEAD SCARED is dark, creepy, and unsettling. This series is definitely becoming one of my favorites.
In DEAD SCARED Lacey Goes undercover at Cambridge university.
Her mission: The students of Cambridge have been dropping like flies- committing suicide in twisted, creative and suspicious ways. Lacey is asked by DI Mark Joesbury-(introduced in Now You See Me) to pose as a fragile, troubled student -if you read the first book in the series, you will realize, Lacey doesn't have to fake the fragile or troubled part- The only person inside the university who knows of her true intent and real identity is Dr. Evi Oliver-a wheelchair bound, teacher and counselor (introduced in Blood Harvest).
Ms. Flint is specifically told NOT to investigate these suicides by Mark Joesbury, but investigate she does. On her own, she quickly finds herself in way over her head, with Evi Oliver being her only friend and lifeline inside.
DEAD SCARED is dark, creepy, and unsettling. This series is definitely becoming one of my favorites.
May 28, 2012
This psychological thriller was totally riveting, and I found myself unable to put it down, while being horrified at the events that were unfolding!
Detective Constable Lacey Flint and Detective Inspector Mark Joesbury have a history together, so coming together in a new case is unsettling for them both, with the tension obvious from the start. Cambridge University has been experiencing an unusually high number of suicides over the past few years, and there is concern that they are not suicides after all.
Joesbury installs Lacey undercover at the university, as Laura Farrow, vulnerable student, just to observe, not investigate. The only person who knows who she really is, is Evi Oliver, psychologist at the University, and the one who had contacted the police in the first place. Evi has her own physical and emotional problems, and struggles with pain continually.
When she enters the university, Laura goes into a share room with another student, Tox, and learns she’s taking the place of Bryony, who recently attempted suicide, and who is now in hospital in a critical condition.
Soon Laura is investigating the students, finding out what she can, against Joesbury’s direct orders. As she discovers they all had bad dreams and being terrified in common, she can’t let it go, and the more she finds out, the more she realizes something incredibly evil and sinister is happening. She feels Evi needs help, that she’s also in danger, and when Laura meets Dr Nick Bell, who seems to be showing an unhealthy interest in Bryony, her suspicions are further aroused.
As Laura starts to put things together, she begins experiencing some very strange ‘episodes’ herself. The danger is escalating, and horrifying, spine chilling events keep occurring. Is Laura/Lacey going to be able to find the killers before she is another statistic...is Joesbury going to be able to get Lacey out before it’s too late?
I absolutely loved this thriller, gruesome though it was. It was a little disjointed, but I feel that is because it is an ARC copy. The storyline was brilliant, woven together very cleverly. I recommend this to all thriller lovers, especially the ones who love the psychological aspects of a story!
Detective Constable Lacey Flint and Detective Inspector Mark Joesbury have a history together, so coming together in a new case is unsettling for them both, with the tension obvious from the start. Cambridge University has been experiencing an unusually high number of suicides over the past few years, and there is concern that they are not suicides after all.
Joesbury installs Lacey undercover at the university, as Laura Farrow, vulnerable student, just to observe, not investigate. The only person who knows who she really is, is Evi Oliver, psychologist at the University, and the one who had contacted the police in the first place. Evi has her own physical and emotional problems, and struggles with pain continually.
When she enters the university, Laura goes into a share room with another student, Tox, and learns she’s taking the place of Bryony, who recently attempted suicide, and who is now in hospital in a critical condition.
Soon Laura is investigating the students, finding out what she can, against Joesbury’s direct orders. As she discovers they all had bad dreams and being terrified in common, she can’t let it go, and the more she finds out, the more she realizes something incredibly evil and sinister is happening. She feels Evi needs help, that she’s also in danger, and when Laura meets Dr Nick Bell, who seems to be showing an unhealthy interest in Bryony, her suspicions are further aroused.
As Laura starts to put things together, she begins experiencing some very strange ‘episodes’ herself. The danger is escalating, and horrifying, spine chilling events keep occurring. Is Laura/Lacey going to be able to find the killers before she is another statistic...is Joesbury going to be able to get Lacey out before it’s too late?
I absolutely loved this thriller, gruesome though it was. It was a little disjointed, but I feel that is because it is an ARC copy. The storyline was brilliant, woven together very cleverly. I recommend this to all thriller lovers, especially the ones who love the psychological aspects of a story!
March 2, 2023
Moja spragniona dobrego thrillera dusza została zaspokojona w najwyższym stopniu. Świetna, wciągająca historia, no i wątek "snuff'ów", który jest równie intrygujący, co makabryczny.
Chyba znalazłam kolejną faworytkę tworzącą w tym gatunku ❤
Chyba znalazłam kolejną faworytkę tworzącą w tym gatunku ❤
November 13, 2022
Another 5 star Lacey Flint tale.
Lacey and Mark work on an undercover gig at Cambridge University where there have been a few too many suicides lately. What she uncovers is quite disturbing. And of course puts her life in jeopardy.
Oh I love the Lacey and Mark saga! Getting so frustrated with them, but not in a bad way.
I just love the dark tone of this series. I just get lost in it. Fantastic.
Bolton does her research! So impressed with the accurate details. I am a burns nurse, and the way that she described the burns, the grafting, the surgeries, the smell... Spot on! And she has obviously done her homework with extensive information about different drugs and mental disorders.
One of the very few things I disliked about this book, was that it seemed to jump point of view in each chapter, and then sometimes halfway through a chapter. I found it a bit irritating and often had to double check it was the character I thought it was. But it didn't bother me enough to hinder my five stars!!!
Loved the twist!!! I'm usually pretty good at picking it, and I may have been off my game, but I had NO idea.
I also really loved the dramatic ending. Fantastic! Loved it! So sad there are only two books left because I know I am just going to DEVOUR them!!!
Oh and I didn't realise that Evi's tale ties up with another book "Blood Harvest".... I'm on it!!!!
Lacey and Mark work on an undercover gig at Cambridge University where there have been a few too many suicides lately. What she uncovers is quite disturbing. And of course puts her life in jeopardy.
Oh I love the Lacey and Mark saga! Getting so frustrated with them, but not in a bad way.
I just love the dark tone of this series. I just get lost in it. Fantastic.
Bolton does her research! So impressed with the accurate details. I am a burns nurse, and the way that she described the burns, the grafting, the surgeries, the smell... Spot on! And she has obviously done her homework with extensive information about different drugs and mental disorders.
One of the very few things I disliked about this book, was that it seemed to jump point of view in each chapter, and then sometimes halfway through a chapter. I found it a bit irritating and often had to double check it was the character I thought it was. But it didn't bother me enough to hinder my five stars!!!
Loved the twist!!! I'm usually pretty good at picking it, and I may have been off my game, but I had NO idea.
I also really loved the dramatic ending. Fantastic! Loved it! So sad there are only two books left because I know I am just going to DEVOUR them!!!
Oh and I didn't realise that Evi's tale ties up with another book "Blood Harvest".... I'm on it!!!!
February 13, 2019
The title ‘Dead Scared’ says it all, this is one scary tale.
There have been an unprecedented number of suicides in the university town Cambridge and DC Lacey Flint has been recruited by SO10, a covert section of Scotland Yard. Lacey’s brief is to install herself as a would-be student to see if she can get a handle on why these suicides are happening.
It doesn’t take long before Lacey herself starts having some very strange experiences. Although investigating is not part of her brief Lacey just can’t help herself. The more she digs the more the danger increases.
Lacey has seen a lot in her short life but nothing can prepare her for what she uncovers.
Lacey is one of those characters you can’t help gravitating to. She is Strong, resourceful and even wilful at times but for all her strengths she’s also fragile and that fragility makes her doubt herself and her abilities.
As for the villains a more sadistic, perverse bunch of sociopaths would be hard to find. The hidden monster inside me wanted their end to be sticky and violent.
Was it? That’s the question and for the answer read the book.
A terrific, can’t put down, 5/5 star read.
There have been an unprecedented number of suicides in the university town Cambridge and DC Lacey Flint has been recruited by SO10, a covert section of Scotland Yard. Lacey’s brief is to install herself as a would-be student to see if she can get a handle on why these suicides are happening.
It doesn’t take long before Lacey herself starts having some very strange experiences. Although investigating is not part of her brief Lacey just can’t help herself. The more she digs the more the danger increases.
Lacey has seen a lot in her short life but nothing can prepare her for what she uncovers.
Lacey is one of those characters you can’t help gravitating to. She is Strong, resourceful and even wilful at times but for all her strengths she’s also fragile and that fragility makes her doubt herself and her abilities.
As for the villains a more sadistic, perverse bunch of sociopaths would be hard to find. The hidden monster inside me wanted their end to be sticky and violent.
Was it? That’s the question and for the answer read the book.
A terrific, can’t put down, 5/5 star read.
June 2, 2013
I loved SJ Bolton's first three stand-alone books Sacrifice, Blood Harvest and Awakening, giving them each 4.5 or 5 stars. They were so atmospheric, so unsettling in their chilling yet subtle creepiness. My heart would pound with nerves as I read them, and I'd savour every delicious gothicky word.
Bolton's latest three books are all part of her Lacey Flint series. Her writing style has changed; she now seems to favour a more direct style, and it sadly isn't working for me. The first, Now You See Me, was a decent enough 3 star read, but after starting well, Dead Scared petered out to a skim-read, which is something I'd never thought I'd do with a Bolton.
I wish she'd go back to her original style. The Lacey Flint books are more disturbing, but they lack the sinisterly subtle malevolence which freaked me out so beautifully in her earlier works. Less Lacey, more chills please.
Bolton's latest three books are all part of her Lacey Flint series. Her writing style has changed; she now seems to favour a more direct style, and it sadly isn't working for me. The first, Now You See Me, was a decent enough 3 star read, but after starting well, Dead Scared petered out to a skim-read, which is something I'd never thought I'd do with a Bolton.
I wish she'd go back to her original style. The Lacey Flint books are more disturbing, but they lack the sinisterly subtle malevolence which freaked me out so beautifully in her earlier works. Less Lacey, more chills please.
October 23, 2018
This review will be short and sweet—it wasn't my favorite Sharon Bolton novel and it definitely turned me off from continuing with the Lacey Flint series, sadly. I was obsessed with how it's predecessor, Now You See Me ran it's course, so I knew I needed to give this series a try.
Dead Scared
starts off epic, and really gripped me immediately in the beginning, however once I got 40% into the story, it became monotonous and tedious to get through. The slow building suspense that I've grown accustomed to by Sharon Bolton fell flat for me in this story. For about 250 pages, we just kept getting dialogue that didn't elevate or move the story along. While I was surprised at the outcome, I was angered by the cliffhanger that this book ends on. After reading 400+ pages of mystery and dialogue, I expect to get a satisfying ending that could hold me over until I can get to the next step in series. I know I'll be in the minority with this review, so please take what I say with a grain of salt. The writing is still strong, the book still has some good scares, and the characters are still as amazing as they were in the first installment.
April 26, 2019
It had been a while since I read the first book in the Lacey Flint series, Now You See Me, but it didn't take me long to get back up to speed with this offering. Suffice it to say that Lacey hasn't changed much since my first encounter with her -- she remained diligent in her pursuit of the truth, a closed book to everyone around her as far as her true thoughts and feelings on anything personal, and not afraid to go where others fear to tread.
Lacey is sent on an undercover assignment to Cambridge University where the suicide rate has become a concern. The suicides have occurred chiefly among attractive young women by diverse and increasingly violent methods. Although Lacey's assignment is to merely be an observer, her curiosity and need to know the truth drives her beyond the boundaries set for her.
The path toward the truth becomes ever more elusive -- and suspenseful -- as only Sharon J. Bolton can write.
Lacey is sent on an undercover assignment to Cambridge University where the suicide rate has become a concern. The suicides have occurred chiefly among attractive young women by diverse and increasingly violent methods. Although Lacey's assignment is to merely be an observer, her curiosity and need to know the truth drives her beyond the boundaries set for her.
The path toward the truth becomes ever more elusive -- and suspenseful -- as only Sharon J. Bolton can write.
October 20, 2014
A Twisted and Thrilling 4 Stars
How would react if you consistently terrorized with your deepest fears and phobias. Would you be able to maintain your sanity if you were subjected to a reign of terror that no one but yourself believed. Dead Scared explores the circumstances that might take a person to the ultimate breaking point.
While I continue to take some issue with the authors storytelling methods, the overall effect is a superb and thrilling novel. I can live with a few warts.
Plot summary
After solving the mystery of the Jack the Ripper copycat killings, our intrepid hero, Lacey Flint, is drafted by the undercover unit. There has been a rash of suicides at Cambridge University. The suicides bring the local rate far above the national average. The University counsellor fears there is a subculture of vulnerable students being pushed to suicide by other disturbed parties. Lacey goes back to school as an undercover agent and investigates the counsellors concerns. As the story progresses, Lacey is forced to face her own fears and insecurities forcing her to question whether she herself has become a target or if she is indeed going crazy.
The Good
The Winner for Most Improved Is...
I was critical of the choppy and disjointed storytelling in the previous novel. This installment show considerable growth in the series and the story is far more organized and internally consistent. The story does not leave the reader behind. The author has also improved with the character development. Unlike the first, characters are not summarily abandoned and we are able to follow the story arc of each person.
Its Easy on the Eyes
S.J. Bolton is a talented writer. I find no serious fault in her writing ability but rather the manner in which she stings the reader along. She writes in a colorful and vibrant prose that keeps you reading despite some absurdities in the plot. It is a sign of a great author that can keep you readings despite a ridiculous story.
The Bad
Can Someone Pass the String
The average reader is not stupid (I don't have the statistic on this so you will just have to take my word). So don't string us along. The author is talented enough to create tension and thrills with her style of writing. Instead, the story strings us along with the knowledge that her superiors are hiding facts from her (and us). While I don`t mind that the character is not fully informed, we are not let in on any of the secrets until the end. The author attempts to use this one plot device to sustain suspense through the entire story. Unfortunately, this one point is distracting and give the story of a level of unbelievability. Speaking of that...
Use that String to Suspend your Belief
The premises was somewhat unbelievable. The idea that Lacey was put into a situation without any information whatsoever was hard enough to buy. It was far more difficult to accept that she was not informed when the situation really started to get out of hand. My difficulty with this is that it did not seem to fit within the world that had been created. She was brought into the investigation by a man that is clearly in love with her and a police force that apparently had respect for her. Personally, I don`t mind suspending my belief if these types of novels. I was a big fan of The Likeness and that plot was far more absurd than this one.
Final Thoughts
While I continue to take issue with the authors storytelling and some of the plot devices she uses, I cannot help but be entertained by the book. The story is taunt and dark and Lacey is an interesting and strong female lead. Being the father of two girls, I am always looking for and happy to find books that have a strong female protagonist. My issues are largely outweighed by the author superb writing and attributable to my personal preferences. I highly recommend this series.
Audiobook Notes
As in the first book, the Narration is 5 Star Narration. Very well done and pleasant for the ears.
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 3
There is significant discussion of rape. There are multiple characters who believe they have subjected to rape while they were sleeping. While there are no graphic descriptions some readers will not appreciate this content as it is disturbing. There a minor amount of other non-graphic discussion of sex.
Language - 2.5
There is some minor use of mild obscenities and some minor use of the f-word. There is less adult language than in the first installment.
Violence - 4.5
Much of the violence in this story is self inflicted. There are multiple instances of suicide, some of which are graphic. There is internal discussion of self harming which will be disturbing for some readers. There is also discussion of sexual violence. While the descriptions are not graphic, the context of the violence is disturbing. The final chapters have some particularly graphic images in which a character is faced with some situations of terror. There is some gore involved. Overall, the violence is not pervasive as in the first installment and less disturbing.
How would react if you consistently terrorized with your deepest fears and phobias. Would you be able to maintain your sanity if you were subjected to a reign of terror that no one but yourself believed. Dead Scared explores the circumstances that might take a person to the ultimate breaking point.
While I continue to take some issue with the authors storytelling methods, the overall effect is a superb and thrilling novel. I can live with a few warts.
Plot summary
After solving the mystery of the Jack the Ripper copycat killings, our intrepid hero, Lacey Flint, is drafted by the undercover unit. There has been a rash of suicides at Cambridge University. The suicides bring the local rate far above the national average. The University counsellor fears there is a subculture of vulnerable students being pushed to suicide by other disturbed parties. Lacey goes back to school as an undercover agent and investigates the counsellors concerns. As the story progresses, Lacey is forced to face her own fears and insecurities forcing her to question whether she herself has become a target or if she is indeed going crazy.
The Good
The Winner for Most Improved Is...
I was critical of the choppy and disjointed storytelling in the previous novel. This installment show considerable growth in the series and the story is far more organized and internally consistent. The story does not leave the reader behind. The author has also improved with the character development. Unlike the first, characters are not summarily abandoned and we are able to follow the story arc of each person.
Its Easy on the Eyes
S.J. Bolton is a talented writer. I find no serious fault in her writing ability but rather the manner in which she stings the reader along. She writes in a colorful and vibrant prose that keeps you reading despite some absurdities in the plot. It is a sign of a great author that can keep you readings despite a ridiculous story.
The Bad
Can Someone Pass the String
The average reader is not stupid (I don't have the statistic on this so you will just have to take my word). So don't string us along. The author is talented enough to create tension and thrills with her style of writing. Instead, the story strings us along with the knowledge that her superiors are hiding facts from her (and us). While I don`t mind that the character is not fully informed, we are not let in on any of the secrets until the end. The author attempts to use this one plot device to sustain suspense through the entire story. Unfortunately, this one point is distracting and give the story of a level of unbelievability. Speaking of that...
Use that String to Suspend your Belief
The premises was somewhat unbelievable. The idea that Lacey was put into a situation without any information whatsoever was hard enough to buy. It was far more difficult to accept that she was not informed when the situation really started to get out of hand. My difficulty with this is that it did not seem to fit within the world that had been created. She was brought into the investigation by a man that is clearly in love with her and a police force that apparently had respect for her. Personally, I don`t mind suspending my belief if these types of novels. I was a big fan of The Likeness and that plot was far more absurd than this one.
Final Thoughts
While I continue to take issue with the authors storytelling and some of the plot devices she uses, I cannot help but be entertained by the book. The story is taunt and dark and Lacey is an interesting and strong female lead. Being the father of two girls, I am always looking for and happy to find books that have a strong female protagonist. My issues are largely outweighed by the author superb writing and attributable to my personal preferences. I highly recommend this series.
Audiobook Notes
As in the first book, the Narration is 5 Star Narration. Very well done and pleasant for the ears.
Content Advisories
It is difficult to find commentary on the sex/violence/language content of book if you are interested. I make an effort to give you the information so you can make an informed decision before reading. *Disclaimer* I do not take note or count the occurrences of adult language as I read. I am simply giving approximations.
Scale 1 - Lowest 5 - Highest
Sex - 3
There is significant discussion of rape. There are multiple characters who believe they have subjected to rape while they were sleeping. While there are no graphic descriptions some readers will not appreciate this content as it is disturbing. There a minor amount of other non-graphic discussion of sex.
Language - 2.5
There is some minor use of mild obscenities and some minor use of the f-word. There is less adult language than in the first installment.
Violence - 4.5
Much of the violence in this story is self inflicted. There are multiple instances of suicide, some of which are graphic. There is internal discussion of self harming which will be disturbing for some readers. There is also discussion of sexual violence. While the descriptions are not graphic, the context of the violence is disturbing. The final chapters have some particularly graphic images in which a character is faced with some situations of terror. There is some gore involved. Overall, the violence is not pervasive as in the first installment and less disturbing.
November 14, 2023
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ entertaining and a little bit freaky… definitely into this series!!!
Lacey is undercover as a student at Cambridge University after a recent influx of suicides that just don’t seem quite right to the police.
Recruited by her mega crush DI Mark Joesbury, Lacey needs to get to the bottom of the weird and disturbing behaviour culminating in suicide before she becomes a victim herself.
Here I am neck deep in a series and thank goodness for it because I am still not over my recent 1 star festival that I did not ask for!!!
I really enjoyed this book, but right off the jump I want to let people know that there are some plot holes and storyline’s that kind of go into the nowhere zone… did it bother me… Nah! I liked the story I got exactly out of it what I wanted and I was entertained. But will it bother others… if you are super pedantic then definitely… just fair warning.
I was prepping myself for a super scary book, my IRL GR friend Lit with Leigh had me geared up for it… when I finished it I texted her and asked… but where was the bit you alluded to… I had read it and moved on my with my life … so the lesson here is that I am clearly either:
a) not bothered by really disturbing things because I read too many thrillers or
b) am a complete psychopath…
Please quietly draw your own conclusions and lets leave it at that. 🤣
Either way this is dark, much darker than book one and you need to watch your TWs because you can see from the synopsis there is suicide but also a bunch of other really messed up stuff.
Lacey did go Detective Dumbass (thank you Leigh for coining the phrase) but… I dunno she doesn’t bother me, I think because I expect it from her I’m like… awww shucks Lacey you silly little dumbass look whatcha got yourself into… and move on. I think that the other characters do make up for it. My fave the big boss Dana isn’t in this one really, and I do kind of like that the centre around different members of the team with Lacey front and centre I mean it is her series so that makes sense. Either way I was happy with this one, it was entertaining and dark and sinister, which clearly is everything I consider a normal day at the office…
I did think the plot got away from itself a bit… Bolton really threw the kitchen sink at this so you must suspend your disbelief for this to work, because the baddies were really running rings around everyone and it was HECTIC… I do not think they could get away with it… AND I think Leigh mentioned in her review the book would be over in two pages if someone just got some CCTV but I guess where is the fun in that.
The ending went bananas, I was like WTF - I wont ruin it cause I think for those that usually like similar books to me then you should read this if you haven’t cause its actually very good… but the ending was just ball up that disbelief, tie a rock to it and throw it into the deep blue sea, you will not need it… and it has no place in this book.
There is an abrupt-ish ending… I was like HANG ON A DAMN MINUTE… WHAT NOW… but thankfully I have the whole series so I am already reading book 3!! I am on a Lacey Flint binge.
Overall - would I recommend, definitely the writing is on point and the story is entertaining and dark… but like stated above if you need realism then this book is not for you at all. You should continue on your merry way. If you want something hectic and a bit freaky (probably more than a bit if you are’t a stone cold ice maiden like myself) then this is probably worth a look, you could read this as a standalone easy enough… but if you like to start at the start I also gave book one 4 stars!! Check it out and Happy Reading!!
Lacey is undercover as a student at Cambridge University after a recent influx of suicides that just don’t seem quite right to the police.
Recruited by her mega crush DI Mark Joesbury, Lacey needs to get to the bottom of the weird and disturbing behaviour culminating in suicide before she becomes a victim herself.
Here I am neck deep in a series and thank goodness for it because I am still not over my recent 1 star festival that I did not ask for!!!
I really enjoyed this book, but right off the jump I want to let people know that there are some plot holes and storyline’s that kind of go into the nowhere zone… did it bother me… Nah! I liked the story I got exactly out of it what I wanted and I was entertained. But will it bother others… if you are super pedantic then definitely… just fair warning.
I was prepping myself for a super scary book, my IRL GR friend Lit with Leigh had me geared up for it… when I finished it I texted her and asked… but where was the bit you alluded to… I had read it and moved on my with my life … so the lesson here is that I am clearly either:
a) not bothered by really disturbing things because I read too many thrillers or
b) am a complete psychopath…
Please quietly draw your own conclusions and lets leave it at that. 🤣
Either way this is dark, much darker than book one and you need to watch your TWs because you can see from the synopsis there is suicide but also a bunch of other really messed up stuff.
Lacey did go Detective Dumbass (thank you Leigh for coining the phrase) but… I dunno she doesn’t bother me, I think because I expect it from her I’m like… awww shucks Lacey you silly little dumbass look whatcha got yourself into… and move on. I think that the other characters do make up for it. My fave the big boss Dana isn’t in this one really, and I do kind of like that the centre around different members of the team with Lacey front and centre I mean it is her series so that makes sense. Either way I was happy with this one, it was entertaining and dark and sinister, which clearly is everything I consider a normal day at the office…
I did think the plot got away from itself a bit… Bolton really threw the kitchen sink at this so you must suspend your disbelief for this to work, because the baddies were really running rings around everyone and it was HECTIC… I do not think they could get away with it… AND I think Leigh mentioned in her review the book would be over in two pages if someone just got some CCTV but I guess where is the fun in that.
The ending went bananas, I was like WTF - I wont ruin it cause I think for those that usually like similar books to me then you should read this if you haven’t cause its actually very good… but the ending was just ball up that disbelief, tie a rock to it and throw it into the deep blue sea, you will not need it… and it has no place in this book.
There is an abrupt-ish ending… I was like HANG ON A DAMN MINUTE… WHAT NOW… but thankfully I have the whole series so I am already reading book 3!! I am on a Lacey Flint binge.
Overall - would I recommend, definitely the writing is on point and the story is entertaining and dark… but like stated above if you need realism then this book is not for you at all. You should continue on your merry way. If you want something hectic and a bit freaky (probably more than a bit if you are’t a stone cold ice maiden like myself) then this is probably worth a look, you could read this as a standalone easy enough… but if you like to start at the start I also gave book one 4 stars!! Check it out and Happy Reading!!
July 27, 2021
This is the second book in the Lacey Flint series by author Sharon Bolton. I read the first book and wasn’t over excited to start this one. I thought the novel was slightly better than the first book, probably due to being more familiar with the characters but it still lacked the quality of some of the authors other books.
Detective constable Lacey Flint goes undercover to investigate a series of suicides at Cambridge University. The deaths all appear to be suicides but there are similarities between the psychological histories, social networks, and online activities of the students involved that make these cases suspicious. Could it be possible that someone was encouraging the students to take their own lives by preying on their insecurities. With Lacey now undercover portraying a vulnerable young woman, she may be able to stop these deaths, but with her fragile past she may actually be the perfect match for the killer.
Certainly better than the previous novel but still way below what I expect from the author. I still have the third book to read so hopefully it will be even better.
Detective constable Lacey Flint goes undercover to investigate a series of suicides at Cambridge University. The deaths all appear to be suicides but there are similarities between the psychological histories, social networks, and online activities of the students involved that make these cases suspicious. Could it be possible that someone was encouraging the students to take their own lives by preying on their insecurities. With Lacey now undercover portraying a vulnerable young woman, she may be able to stop these deaths, but with her fragile past she may actually be the perfect match for the killer.
Certainly better than the previous novel but still way below what I expect from the author. I still have the third book to read so hopefully it will be even better.
October 19, 2014
This was probably closer to a 3.5 stars for as I feel it wasn't as good as the first Lacey Flint novel, but still a hugely enjoyable novel nonetheless. It continues on from book 1 where some time has elapsed and Lacey is sent to Cambridge by her boss Mark Joesbury to investigate a spate of apparent suicides. Posing as a student she is sent to quietly submerge herself into student life and see what pointers she can pick out, of course this being Lacey, she doesn't stop there and throws herself head first into a full on investigation. What follows is a pacy, thrilling, sometimes outlandish tale that, if you're prepared to suspend your beliefs in the air at times, works very well. There are some questionable decisions and areas where I thought hhhmmmm but like I said, if you leave that behind, it's an enjoyable read. I can't really say that I like Lacey, on the other hand, I don't dislike her either. She makes some questionable decisions and her snappy, irritation annoys me at times, but hey maybe that's just me. I hope the relationship between Lacey and Mark doesn't turn into a constant 'will they, won't they?' scenario, I can see that wearing a bit thin, but it's interesting at the minute and Mark ...... well .... sigh!! ;))
I don't know if anyone else thought this but I did find the ending a bit flat, which was a little disappointment, just wasn't what I was expecting.
All in all a really enjoyable read that I read in one sitting and am looking forward to the next instalment.
Enjoy.
I don't know if anyone else thought this but I did find the ending a bit flat, which was a little disappointment, just wasn't what I was expecting.
All in all a really enjoyable read that I read in one sitting and am looking forward to the next instalment.
Enjoy.
May 13, 2012
Young women students are committing suicide in horrible ways in Cambridge and in this second book of the series, Flint goes under cover as a college student, to observe and try to ferret out information. Bolton is a fantastic writer at setting up a creepy atmosphere with brilliant writing and descriptions and deep psychological underpinnings. Dark, creepy with many twists and turns, this series will definitely appeal to those who are fans of Chelsea Cain, Sophie Hannah and Gillian Flinn. Definitely not for the faint of heart. ARC from NetGalley.
July 31, 2019
In the second book featuring Detective Lacey Flint, Lacey finds herself going undercover as a student at Cambridge University following an unexpected blip in the suicide rate in the student population. Most of the victims are pretty girls and, when Lacey starts to investigate, things don't seem right, especially with regard to the strange and violent methods used.
This was totally gripping and a real rollercoaster of a read. Sadly the ending was a bit sudden and inconclusive so I wasn't able to award it 5 stars - 9/10.
This was totally gripping and a real rollercoaster of a read. Sadly the ending was a bit sudden and inconclusive so I wasn't able to award it 5 stars - 9/10.
March 27, 2019
Nerve Rattling and Terrifying!
DI Joesbury has reached the door to the chapel tower and finds it unlocked. It slams back against the stone wall and his left shoulder, which will always be the weaker of the two, registers the shock of pain. At the first corner, Joesbury spots a shoe, a narrow, low-heeled blue leather shoe, with a pointed toe and a high polish. He almost stops to pick it up and then realizes he can’t bear to. Once before he held a woman’s shoe in his hand and thought he’d lost her. He carries on, up the steps, counting them as he goes. Not because he has the faintest idea how many there are, but because he needs to be marking progress in his head. When he reaches the second flight, he hears footsteps behind him. Someone is following him up.
He feels the cold air just as he sees the door at the top. He’s out on the roof before he has any idea what he’s going to do if he’s too late and she’s already jumped. Or what the hell he’ll do if she hasn’t.
‘Lacey,’he yells. ‘No!’
**********
And that's just the beginning!
Book two in the Lacey Flint series, Dead Scared is exactly we come to expect from Sharon J. Bolton! Terrifying, nerve jangling, psychological suspence that will leave your heart pounding and your breath caught in your throat!
This series is so addicting!
Like This, For Ever will be in my hands very, very soon! But first, I had better read something a bit lighter!
I don't write very much in my reviews of this series as each one builds on the one before it and so far, they are all sensational! And I don't want to give anything away!
DI Joesbury has reached the door to the chapel tower and finds it unlocked. It slams back against the stone wall and his left shoulder, which will always be the weaker of the two, registers the shock of pain. At the first corner, Joesbury spots a shoe, a narrow, low-heeled blue leather shoe, with a pointed toe and a high polish. He almost stops to pick it up and then realizes he can’t bear to. Once before he held a woman’s shoe in his hand and thought he’d lost her. He carries on, up the steps, counting them as he goes. Not because he has the faintest idea how many there are, but because he needs to be marking progress in his head. When he reaches the second flight, he hears footsteps behind him. Someone is following him up.
He feels the cold air just as he sees the door at the top. He’s out on the roof before he has any idea what he’s going to do if he’s too late and she’s already jumped. Or what the hell he’ll do if she hasn’t.
‘Lacey,’he yells. ‘No!’
**********
And that's just the beginning!
Book two in the Lacey Flint series, Dead Scared is exactly we come to expect from Sharon J. Bolton! Terrifying, nerve jangling, psychological suspence that will leave your heart pounding and your breath caught in your throat!
This series is so addicting!
Like This, For Ever will be in my hands very, very soon! But first, I had better read something a bit lighter!
I don't write very much in my reviews of this series as each one builds on the one before it and so far, they are all sensational! And I don't want to give anything away!
June 12, 2012
Well...this will do it for me. I just can't get into this series. The writing and characterizations have not improved or deepened from the first book in the series. I have several beefs with this book beyond that. The plot is absurd. If a writer is going to give us a book with a plot this outlandish, it must have a strong foundation in terms of motivation and explanations for how things have happened. Readers are left basically clueless about why these evil people are being so evil and how they were able to cover it up (not to mention finance it) for such a long time. DC Lacey Flint certainly doesn't give us those insights. She doesn't connect what's happening to her to what is going on with, say, Evi. Again, we have a book full of such passive women except for those who are inexplicably evil. Plot points are left dangling (in the book the question is asked multiple times, how did Nick Bell get Lacey's top secret cell number? We're not told) and the book just suddenly ends. Somehow a bunch of baddies get from one place to another with Lacey in tow and we have a scene where she is very dramatically threatened (I won't say what happens to her) and then the book just ends. That's it.
Supposedly Lacey is very spunky and smart. In this novel she's a little more active than in the first (she climbs through a window) and she FINALLY puts together some clues and figures out what's been going on, but she is also punch-drunk in love and just seems to be a character who isn't growing. The climax of the series will come not when she is promoted to DI but when she and her honey FINALLY do it. It's that kind of book. If you like that, then this one's for you. No more for me though. Sorry for being so harsh, but I'm very disappointed. I did like Sniffy, the dog.
Supposedly Lacey is very spunky and smart. In this novel she's a little more active than in the first (she climbs through a window) and she FINALLY puts together some clues and figures out what's been going on, but she is also punch-drunk in love and just seems to be a character who isn't growing. The climax of the series will come not when she is promoted to DI but when she and her honey FINALLY do it. It's that kind of book. If you like that, then this one's for you. No more for me though. Sorry for being so harsh, but I'm very disappointed. I did like Sniffy, the dog.
July 23, 2013
What a great book!!
S.J Bolton - Dead Scared
I was given this book, and I had not hear of this author.
A British author S.J Bolton, Sharon Bolton. A great find and very pleased this book was given to me, now reading another of her books.
This book has great strong characters, a great story, a gripping plot, strong and tense all the way and building to a great final few chapters.
I do highly recommend this book and author.
You will be hooked, and you will be guessing all the way !
Enjoy
regards
Sean
S.J Bolton - Dead Scared
I was given this book, and I had not hear of this author.
A British author S.J Bolton, Sharon Bolton. A great find and very pleased this book was given to me, now reading another of her books.
This book has great strong characters, a great story, a gripping plot, strong and tense all the way and building to a great final few chapters.
I do highly recommend this book and author.
You will be hooked, and you will be guessing all the way !
Enjoy
regards
Sean
August 29, 2014
Bolton knows how to set up suspense! Like a countdown, I was speed reading to the conclusion. Now on to the next book in the series!
January 14, 2013
I seriously suspect that two different people write under the name of S.J. Bolton. One S.J. Bolton writes very well plotted mysteries with complex characters (Sacrifice, Awakening, Now You See Me). The second S.J. Bolton writes wildly implausible mysteries with ridiculous romance novel overtones (Blood Harvest and Dead Scared). I can’t figure how the two books (Blood Harvest and Dead Scared) can be so different from the other three; the author is either two people writing under one alias or the author has a split personality. I couldn’t finish Blood Harvest due to its ridiculous plot and the badly done, lovey-dovey romance. This book is just as bad. Ironically, when I saw that the characters from this book were from Now You See Me, I pulled that book from my shelf and re-read a majority of it, thinking (sensibly) that actions from the earlier book would affect this book. Wow, was I wrong. Re-reading that book just made me more aware of how horribly bad this one is. Hence, my theory that two different writers are using the S.J. Bolton name.
In Dead Scared, Mark Joesbury and Lacey Flint are working together again. This time he has requested that she go under cover as a psychology student at Cambridge University. A series of suicides have taken place over about five years and a counselor and faculty member (Evi Oliver from Blood Harvest) is concerned that they weren’t suicides; she suspects the girls were coerced in some way to kill themselves. Evi herself is being targeted by odd pranks and thinks she is being watched but has no tangible proof. As all the girls who killed themselves were emotionally vulnerable and had a history of anxiety or depression, Lacey is posing as an emotionally sensitive undergraduate to see if anything criminal is happening on campus. Of course, something is going on and Lacey finds herself targeted.
So, this book is totally stupid. First of all, there are so many of these suicides and they happen in such spectacular fashion (one girl sets herself on fire, another yanks her head off through elaborate means, etc.) that there is no waythey would be ignored as suicides. Women most often go for the least painful, least violent way of dying (pills or cutting), so these spectacularly arranged suicides would be suspicious right from the beginning. Plus the sheer number of them. The plot is utterly ridiculous. Any reader with half a brain should know that these women were somehow forced or coerced by use of drugs or brainwashing into killing themselves. What’s left is the who and the why and quite frankly the book is so badly written I just didn’t care. I read about the first 150 pages or so then read the end (I never do this so that’s an indication of how bad I found the book) and then skimmed the remaining two hundred or so pages. Thrown into this is good ole moron Evie who I despised from the earlier book and I wasn’t happy to see her in this book. She’s having weird pranks played on her, hearing voices, seeing odd things…and while she’s worried she’s losing her mind, I’m like, duh, you’re being targeted for some stupid reason. I immediately thought, well, it’s possible she’s being drugged or some kind of gas is being pumped into her house. It’s also possible she’s being watched electronically. The plot in this book is just so over the top for me—there is no real mystery to it. It’s just dumb. This book is described as a “psychological thriller” but it’s not. The explanation for why the college girls were targeted is mundane and ridiculous and didn’t quite work for me. But then, nothing about this book worked for me. The plot holes are big enough to drive a Mack truck through and because I think while I read, I kept arguing with the book about its illogic.
Then, there’s the writing. Technically, the book starts with third person omniscient point of view. Then switches to Lacy, first person. Then switches to Evi, third person. Then switches back. Now, I’m irritated. I understand that being a writer means being creative and being creative means breaking rules. Fine. But playing around with a book’s point of view is wrong. An author picks a specific narrator and style of narration for a reason and flipping a narrator around the way this book does is a definite sign of a bad writer—and a bad editor since the editor allowed it. It is distracting that Lacey is sometimes “I” and then sometimes she’s third person “her” being described through the eyes of another character. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. And because Bolton flip-flopped the POV, I get to know what Joesbury is thinking. I don’t want to know! He was much more mysterious and sexy and menacing in NYSM because I didn’t know what he thought about Lacey. Did he think she was the murderer? Was he attracted to her? Did he even like her? I didn’t know and that was a good thing. It made his character interesting and the relationship between Lacey and Joesbury (Mark) less defined and disturbing. Because the writing in that book was good, I knew he and Lacy were sexually attracted to each other but they didn’t want to be and I knew that through their reactions to each other, not from idiotic sentences like this: “…he was getting that feeling again. The one he always had when he was with her…the one that told him there was nowhere else in the whole world he’d rather be” (179). Ugh. In this Bolton book, I learn that he looks at her pink lips and comes to the startling realization that her bottom lip is so very, very plump and that he is, indeed, in love with her. WTH. If Bolton writer #2 (the bad one) wants to write romances, then go write them. I personally have nothing against a decent romance. What I object to is taking complex characters who have histories, who are dark and a bit disturbed, who I enjoyed very much, and sticking them in this overwrought, ludicrously plotted book that is a backdrop for their now way-too-simple romance. It’s gross. Lacey Flint and Mark Joesbury are very different people in this book (less interesting, less intelligent) and I’m very disappointed. NYSM was such a good book! I was looking forward to seeing how (or if) their relationship would progress and how Lacey (who has a disturbing history and a big secret that could bring her life crashing down) would handle herself in this book. Unfortunately, the characters in this book are not in any way related to the characters of the same name in NYSM. I don’t know who this other author is writing under S.J. Bolton’s name and usurping her characters, but I wish she would stop. She is a sucky writer.
In Dead Scared, Mark Joesbury and Lacey Flint are working together again. This time he has requested that she go under cover as a psychology student at Cambridge University. A series of suicides have taken place over about five years and a counselor and faculty member (Evi Oliver from Blood Harvest) is concerned that they weren’t suicides; she suspects the girls were coerced in some way to kill themselves. Evi herself is being targeted by odd pranks and thinks she is being watched but has no tangible proof. As all the girls who killed themselves were emotionally vulnerable and had a history of anxiety or depression, Lacey is posing as an emotionally sensitive undergraduate to see if anything criminal is happening on campus. Of course, something is going on and Lacey finds herself targeted.
So, this book is totally stupid. First of all, there are so many of these suicides and they happen in such spectacular fashion (one girl sets herself on fire, another yanks her head off through elaborate means, etc.) that there is no waythey would be ignored as suicides. Women most often go for the least painful, least violent way of dying (pills or cutting), so these spectacularly arranged suicides would be suspicious right from the beginning. Plus the sheer number of them. The plot is utterly ridiculous. Any reader with half a brain should know that these women were somehow forced or coerced by use of drugs or brainwashing into killing themselves. What’s left is the who and the why and quite frankly the book is so badly written I just didn’t care. I read about the first 150 pages or so then read the end (I never do this so that’s an indication of how bad I found the book) and then skimmed the remaining two hundred or so pages. Thrown into this is good ole moron Evie who I despised from the earlier book and I wasn’t happy to see her in this book. She’s having weird pranks played on her, hearing voices, seeing odd things…and while she’s worried she’s losing her mind, I’m like, duh, you’re being targeted for some stupid reason. I immediately thought, well, it’s possible she’s being drugged or some kind of gas is being pumped into her house. It’s also possible she’s being watched electronically. The plot in this book is just so over the top for me—there is no real mystery to it. It’s just dumb. This book is described as a “psychological thriller” but it’s not. The explanation for why the college girls were targeted is mundane and ridiculous and didn’t quite work for me. But then, nothing about this book worked for me. The plot holes are big enough to drive a Mack truck through and because I think while I read, I kept arguing with the book about its illogic.
Then, there’s the writing. Technically, the book starts with third person omniscient point of view. Then switches to Lacy, first person. Then switches to Evi, third person. Then switches back. Now, I’m irritated. I understand that being a writer means being creative and being creative means breaking rules. Fine. But playing around with a book’s point of view is wrong. An author picks a specific narrator and style of narration for a reason and flipping a narrator around the way this book does is a definite sign of a bad writer—and a bad editor since the editor allowed it. It is distracting that Lacey is sometimes “I” and then sometimes she’s third person “her” being described through the eyes of another character. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. And because Bolton flip-flopped the POV, I get to know what Joesbury is thinking. I don’t want to know! He was much more mysterious and sexy and menacing in NYSM because I didn’t know what he thought about Lacey. Did he think she was the murderer? Was he attracted to her? Did he even like her? I didn’t know and that was a good thing. It made his character interesting and the relationship between Lacey and Joesbury (Mark) less defined and disturbing. Because the writing in that book was good, I knew he and Lacy were sexually attracted to each other but they didn’t want to be and I knew that through their reactions to each other, not from idiotic sentences like this: “…he was getting that feeling again. The one he always had when he was with her…the one that told him there was nowhere else in the whole world he’d rather be” (179). Ugh. In this Bolton book, I learn that he looks at her pink lips and comes to the startling realization that her bottom lip is so very, very plump and that he is, indeed, in love with her. WTH. If Bolton writer #2 (the bad one) wants to write romances, then go write them. I personally have nothing against a decent romance. What I object to is taking complex characters who have histories, who are dark and a bit disturbed, who I enjoyed very much, and sticking them in this overwrought, ludicrously plotted book that is a backdrop for their now way-too-simple romance. It’s gross. Lacey Flint and Mark Joesbury are very different people in this book (less interesting, less intelligent) and I’m very disappointed. NYSM was such a good book! I was looking forward to seeing how (or if) their relationship would progress and how Lacey (who has a disturbing history and a big secret that could bring her life crashing down) would handle herself in this book. Unfortunately, the characters in this book are not in any way related to the characters of the same name in NYSM. I don’t know who this other author is writing under S.J. Bolton’s name and usurping her characters, but I wish she would stop. She is a sucky writer.
January 27, 2013
Psychological insight can be deadly in the wrong hands
When I read this book was nominated for the 2013 Mary Higgins Clark Award I was intrigued though S.J. Bolton was already someone I’d been meaning to read. What a relief it was to read a mystery that was based in reality rather some bizarre psycho doing improbable things. Bolton’s novel seems, sadly, all too believable. It’s set at England’s prestigious Cambridge University where a young, beautiful police officer is asked to go undercover pretending to be an undergrad. Lacey Flint isn’t told all the facts, only that she’s supposed to liaise with a campus psychiatrist concerning some of her troubled patients. Lacey’s only contact is Mark Joesbury who she’s worked with before…and fallen in love with.
Joesbury specifically tells her NOT to try and investigate on her own but curiosity takes over and she delves ever deeper into a baffling mystery. I liked Bolton’s presentation of very old campus traditions set against modern standards of behavior and her exploration of how easily such rituals can become twisted and potentially dangerous in the wrong hands. The writing is good, the setting is lushly English, there’s a restraint that lends reality to the action. Psychological insight can be deadly in the wrong hands. I’ll be reading more from this author.
This review is based on an e-galley provided by the publishers.
When I read this book was nominated for the 2013 Mary Higgins Clark Award I was intrigued though S.J. Bolton was already someone I’d been meaning to read. What a relief it was to read a mystery that was based in reality rather some bizarre psycho doing improbable things. Bolton’s novel seems, sadly, all too believable. It’s set at England’s prestigious Cambridge University where a young, beautiful police officer is asked to go undercover pretending to be an undergrad. Lacey Flint isn’t told all the facts, only that she’s supposed to liaise with a campus psychiatrist concerning some of her troubled patients. Lacey’s only contact is Mark Joesbury who she’s worked with before…and fallen in love with.
Joesbury specifically tells her NOT to try and investigate on her own but curiosity takes over and she delves ever deeper into a baffling mystery. I liked Bolton’s presentation of very old campus traditions set against modern standards of behavior and her exploration of how easily such rituals can become twisted and potentially dangerous in the wrong hands. The writing is good, the setting is lushly English, there’s a restraint that lends reality to the action. Psychological insight can be deadly in the wrong hands. I’ll be reading more from this author.
This review is based on an e-galley provided by the publishers.
October 8, 2015
4.5 Stars
Dead Scared really shook me up. Creepy folks, really creepy. DI Mark Joesbury has DC Lacey Flint go undercover at Cambridge University. Too many students have been committing suicide, with as many failing at his/her attempts. Dr. Evi Oliver believes these students are being influenced by online pressure from suicide websites and chat rooms. DI Joesbury and Scotland Yard believe something more nefarious is going on at the colleges. These people are either being controlled by evil persons or they are getting help. The suicides are way to elaborate. And there is absolutely no trace evidence.
Flint is just supposed to keep her eyes open and not investigate. Right. We are talking about DC Lacey Flint, after all. Of course she investigates. As she gets closer to the truth, she is targeted. They want to kill her, but she, Lacey Flint must do it herself. They cannot be exposed. Who can she trust? Will she she leave Cambridge alive or in a body bag?
Bolton never lets off the gas. Her narrative is moving faster and faster. The reader feels the anxiety that the girls, Lacey, and Dr. Oliver feel. Stalkers, surveillance, invasion of privacy all feel to real. I checked my front door several times last night. I felt their fear as they were being "scared to death." The killers know what each is most afraid of.
Dead Scared really shook me up. Creepy folks, really creepy. DI Mark Joesbury has DC Lacey Flint go undercover at Cambridge University. Too many students have been committing suicide, with as many failing at his/her attempts. Dr. Evi Oliver believes these students are being influenced by online pressure from suicide websites and chat rooms. DI Joesbury and Scotland Yard believe something more nefarious is going on at the colleges. These people are either being controlled by evil persons or they are getting help. The suicides are way to elaborate. And there is absolutely no trace evidence.
Flint is just supposed to keep her eyes open and not investigate. Right. We are talking about DC Lacey Flint, after all. Of course she investigates. As she gets closer to the truth, she is targeted. They want to kill her, but she, Lacey Flint must do it herself. They cannot be exposed. Who can she trust? Will she she leave Cambridge alive or in a body bag?
Bolton never lets off the gas. Her narrative is moving faster and faster. The reader feels the anxiety that the girls, Lacey, and Dr. Oliver feel. Stalkers, surveillance, invasion of privacy all feel to real. I checked my front door several times last night. I felt their fear as they were being "scared to death." The killers know what each is most afraid of.
April 14, 2012
To be published by Minotaur Books June 5, 2012
My sincere thanks to Alison Fisher, Library Marketing Coordinator, Adult TradeMacmillan for providing the e-galley for my reading pleasure.
Dreams, Darkness, Danger, Death!
If you're prone to nightmares, you might want to skip Dead Scared. If you love psychological manipulation, then this is the right book for you.
Bolton brings back characters DC Lacey Flint and by DI Mark Joesbury introduced in Now You See Me, and the tension between them heats once again. Joesbury recruits Flint to play the role of undercover student, Laura Farrow at Cambridge University. Cambridge has experienced a series of student suicides and though statistics would support a handful of students taking their own lives, these have similarities that seem of a suspicious nature. Flint is not there to investigate, mind you, just to observe but we know Lacey can't resist the challenge of the hunt.
Bolton does a great job in depicting her college setting, the natural progression of her returning characters, but where she really shines is in this roller-coaster ride of mental processes, dream state, falconry and phobias.
Bolton has produced another winner, one worthy of awards and should please old and new fans alike.
My sincere thanks to Alison Fisher, Library Marketing Coordinator, Adult TradeMacmillan for providing the e-galley for my reading pleasure.
Dreams, Darkness, Danger, Death!
If you're prone to nightmares, you might want to skip Dead Scared. If you love psychological manipulation, then this is the right book for you.
Bolton brings back characters DC Lacey Flint and by DI Mark Joesbury introduced in Now You See Me, and the tension between them heats once again. Joesbury recruits Flint to play the role of undercover student, Laura Farrow at Cambridge University. Cambridge has experienced a series of student suicides and though statistics would support a handful of students taking their own lives, these have similarities that seem of a suspicious nature. Flint is not there to investigate, mind you, just to observe but we know Lacey can't resist the challenge of the hunt.
Bolton does a great job in depicting her college setting, the natural progression of her returning characters, but where she really shines is in this roller-coaster ride of mental processes, dream state, falconry and phobias.
Bolton has produced another winner, one worthy of awards and should please old and new fans alike.
February 11, 2012
S J Bolton certainly can serve up a page-turning story, I was totally gripped by this fast-paced thriller, with it's twists and turns and very very strange happenings.
Despite not having read the first book in the series about DC Lacey Flint and her boss DI Mark Joesbury, it was not difficult to pick up some of their past history. It was clear from the beginning that they had a somewhat unusual relationship, and their tensions only added to what is at times an incredibly tense story line.
The Cambridge setting is wonderful, the university with it's tradition and almost 'other worldy' life is the perfect place for a police drama. The very short chapters, told alternatively from the perspective of different characters works extremely well, leaving the reader hanging on and wanting to know more, and now! There are some pretty brutal descriptions of the apparant student suicides, but these are not out of place and only add to the drama and the suspense.
A very clever plot, that kept me guessing right up until the end.
Despite not having read the first book in the series about DC Lacey Flint and her boss DI Mark Joesbury, it was not difficult to pick up some of their past history. It was clear from the beginning that they had a somewhat unusual relationship, and their tensions only added to what is at times an incredibly tense story line.
The Cambridge setting is wonderful, the university with it's tradition and almost 'other worldy' life is the perfect place for a police drama. The very short chapters, told alternatively from the perspective of different characters works extremely well, leaving the reader hanging on and wanting to know more, and now! There are some pretty brutal descriptions of the apparant student suicides, but these are not out of place and only add to the drama and the suspense.
A very clever plot, that kept me guessing right up until the end.
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