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Advance Readers' Comments for BROKEN PROMISE

In June, a select group of readers who participated in one of our Sneak Peek Contests won copies of BROKEN PROMISE by Linwood Barclay. Take a look at some of the readers' comments to give you more insight into this book... and watch out for spoilers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ruth V. of Norwalk, OH

I loved the book.

Rating: I’d rate it a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Just plain AWESOME.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  This book was hard to put down. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist came along. The plots along the way were just amazing!

Would you recommend?: Yes, definitely.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would definitely be interested in reading the next book, and thank you so much for sharing this one with me!

 

Vera W. of Goose Creek, SC

I really enjoyed the book. The author grabs your attention from the start and holds it to the finish.  A book that once you start reading is hard to put down.  I started late yesterday and finished up today.

Rating: I would give this a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Breathtaking, murder and suspense.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's a murder mystery that holds your attention. Amazing how the story ends. Even after all the bad that happens, some good comes out.

Would you recommend?: Highly recommend to others. Leaves you wanting to read more.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I look forward to reading other books by Linwood Barclay.

 

Jill M. of Griswold, CT

I thought this was a great book!

Rating:  5. 5, with 5 being the highest!

Describe the book in three words: Great plot development!

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  There are a lot of characters, but the plot is very easy to follow. This was a really quick read, too! I can't wait to read more from this author!

Would you recommend?: Yes, and I already have!  I thought this book was great, and I’ve already passed it along to my cousin, who is an avid reader like myself.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I enjoyed the details of the small town of Promise Falls!

 

Laura H. of Branchburg, NJ

I really liked BROKEN PROMISE. Although some of the plot was predictable, there was enough intrigue and human interest that made me want to read more. The author presented solid and relatable characterizations, e.g, a single dad, bullying of a new kid at school, characters with a variety of losses, etc., along with a variety of conflicts. The book was an enjoyable, easy read that I had a hard time putting down. Some unresolved issues encourages one to want to learn more, e.g., the significance of the number 23, dead squirrels, the dad’s secret, and a killer-at-large.

Rating: 4, with 5 being the highest.

Describe the book in three words: Thought-provoking, realistic and intriguing.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A single father who returns to live in his hometown is asked to visit a cousin known to have emotional problems. What he finds when visiting her takes him on a journey to exonerate her from a crime, while letting the reader learn about different folks and events in the town, as well as more about his cousin’s emotional difficulties.

Would you recommend?: Yes, and I already have. Some of my friends like to read thrillers and this book falls into that category. Although the book was long, I found it to be a quick, easy read with interesting and likeable characters and some humor. As it is the first in the series, it held my attention enough to want to read a sequel. It would make for a great beach read.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, definitely.

 

Michele C. of Midlothian, VA

I loved it! And now I am anxiously looking forward to the next installment. I thought NO SAFE HOUSE and NO TIME FOR GOODBYE were my favorites, but this is awesome.

Rating: Definitely a 5.

Describe the book in three words:  Amazing, thrilling and touching.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: The characters are great; the storyline is awesome and it will keep you thrilled the whole book.

Would you recommend?: Yes!  This book has it all!

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes!  I read several hundred books a year, and this is one of my favorite authors.

 

Laurie B. of Farmington Hills, MI

I was fascinated by the storyline in BROKEN PROMISE. This is a new genre for me.

Rating: I rate BROKEN PROMISE 4 out of 5 stars.

Describe the book in three words: Murder, suspense and thriller.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  BROKEN PROMISE is a unique creative family saga with strange characters, full of secrets and surreal circumstances. A great start to a new thriller trilogy with plenty of discussable themes for book clubs!

Would you recommend?: I have already recommended BROKEN PROMISE to a friend who adores a good "thrill and chill" story.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would be interested in reading the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Karen O. of Overland Park, KS

I enjoyed BROKEN PROMISE, but was unhappy with the “left hanging” ending.

Rating: I would rate the book a 4.

Describe the book in three words: Complex, suspenseful and interesting.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book has an interesting and sympathetic main character, and you keep hoping for something good to happen for him. The story gets quite complex, but its plot remains intriguing. You would have to read the second book to see how things work out.

Would you recommend?: Maybe.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would.

 

Betty C. of Berwyn, IL

BROKEN PROMISE was an enjoyable, fast read with interesting characters and a great premise.

Rating: 4+.

Describe the book in three words: Thriller, murder and suspense.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: An unemployed newspaperman and his son come back to his hometown, where they become involved in a bizarre murder involving baby stealing and squirrel torture. A fast read that makes you want to keep reading. I finished this book in two days.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I already recommended it to my co-worker at the library.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes. I'd like to find out more about the characters.

 

Trude V. of Pasco, WA

I enjoyed this book very much. It was a quick read that held my attention. Suspenseful and entertaining.

Rating: I would rate this book a strong 4.

Describe the book in three words: Page-turner, suspenseful and entertaining.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is an entertaining, fast-moving book that is suspenseful, but at times will make you laugh. The story grabbed me from the beginning and I raced to the conclusion. I was able to like and feel sympathy for most of the characters.

Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to a friend.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would very much be interested in the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Sue K. of Cincinnati, OH

Wonderful.

Rating: Rated 5.

Describe the book in three words: Interesting, spellbinding and superior.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: The main character, David, after losing his wife in an accident, moves back in with his parents, taking his 10-year-old son with him. David becomes involved with his cousin regarding the stealing of a baby and the killing of the baby's mother.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I have already let a friend borrow my copy.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely. I love Linwood Barclay's books.

 

Susan G. of Decatur, AL

I enjoyed it very much. I started reading it immediately, and did not quit until I had finished.

Rating: 5, being the best rating.

Describe the book in three words: Family secrets unraveled.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: David Harwood, a widower and out-of-work reporter, returns to his hometown and ends up moving in with his parents. A cousin becomes involved in a murder and baby kidnapping, and David's investigative reporting ability is used to work on the case. There are plots working at several levels, and just when you think everything is going to be tied up nice and neat, several events are left unsolved, leaving the promise of a sequel on the table.

Would you recommend?: Yes, particularly to those friends who enjoy thrillers.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Very much so!

 

DeAnn A. of Denver, CO

I really liked it.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Fast-paced thriller.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Out-of-work reporter tries to dig into mystery surrounding his family, while another sinister criminal seems to be at work in the same small town. The local police try to crack both cases.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I enjoyed it and I have several friends who like thrillers too.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I want to know what happens!

 

Carolyn S. of Las Vegas, NV

I really liked it, and it kept me interested all the way through. Then the ending was like, “What? I have to wait? OK, now you've got me.”

Rating:  4.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, entertaining and a thrill ride.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book is a murder mystery that turns into another. It keeps you interested through the whole book. No slow parts at all.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would, because it was an edge-of-the-seat kind of read that keeps you going. I read it in three days.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I definitely would be interested in reading the next book.

 

James L. of South Lyon, MI

A real page-turner with believable characters and lots of intermingled plots & twists. Best thriller I have read this year. A standalone story with a superb ending, but the stage is set for the rest of the series. A REAL TURN OFF: Barclay’s need to throw in the "f***" word every 10 pages or so. Does nothing for the story or to expand the character of the cast. Just shows a poor command of the English language!

Rating: 4.3.

Describe the book in three words: Engrossing, thrilling and satisfying.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Fast paced page-turner with lots of surprises. A cast of characters you can relate to and love or hate. A thriller that does not disappoint.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I know what my friends enjoy.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes (hooked).

 

Jennifer S. of Williston, ND

His best one yet! The character development was fantastic. The plot was amazing and I could not put this book down.

Rating: 5!

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, fast-paced and brilliant.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  I would tell them that it's a very fast-paced suspense novel. It keeps you guessing, and even if you think you've figured it out, you probably haven't.

Would you recommend?: Yes, of course. I always recommend Linwood Barclay to everyone. He's an amazing author who I think everyone would love.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Most definitely!

 

Mollie H. of Waynesboro, VA

I really liked this book. It held my interest so deeply that I had a hard time putting the book down, and ended up reading it in two sittings. It was suspenseful --- a story that moved well, it kept me interested and trying to figure out the mystery. I grew to really care about the character and his family, hoping for a good outcome for them. I love James Patterson's books, and this book was easily as good as the best of Patterson's books. 

Rating: I would give this book a rating of 5 with 5 being the highest rating.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, captivating and moving.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: The lead character has just left a great job in a large Boston newspaper to return to his home, Promise Falls, to give his son a better, smaller town life with better values. He gets home to his new job just in time to lose it, as the local paper is closing. He becomes involved in a relative's criminal case, which spreads to touch another family, and revolves around a murder and a missing baby.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I have recommended this book to several friends, who really want to borrow mine, but I didn't lend it --- I wasn’t sure that would be allowed as it is not yet out.  They know I am an avid reader and love, love, love to read, more than TV watching. So my opinion means a lot to the friends I have that are also big readers.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would be totally thrilled to follow this book to the next books in the Promise Falls series.

 

Carolyn B. of La Jolla, CA

I enjoyed reading the book. I read it very quickly, as it kept up my interest.

Rating: I would rate it a 4.

Describe the book in three words: Interesting, engaging and fast moving.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It is a story about a family that has dark secrets that come to haunt them and change the lives of many people. It is a bit of a thriller that will hold your interest until the very end of the book.

Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to friends. I found it was a book that kept my interest throughout and kept me guessing as to what the end results were going to be.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would definitely  be interested in reading the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Myrna L. of Boca Raton, FL

Not badly written but obviously the first in a series --- too many unresolved issues.

Rating: 3.

Describe the book in three words: A page-turner, over-plotted and frustrating.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: There are a number of plots and subplots, the latter being unfulfilled, which leads the reader to figure out there will be a sequel without knowing there will be. That is very frustrating. The book goes in too many directions --- murder, baby snatching, extortion, illegal immigration, college rape --- and some are unresolved. For instance: the recurring number 23, the killing of the squirrels and the episode at the abandoned amusement park.    

Would you recommend?: Maybe. It's a fast read but some questions are never answered. For example, there are a number of references to the tragic death of the protagonist's wife, yet the author never explains the circumstances. The title is also kitschy.

Would you read more by Barclay?: No. There are too many very good books out there I would want to read.

 

Dianne H. of China Spring, TX

I enjoyed the book very much.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Mystery, easy read and interesting characters.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is a thriller/mystery. The book revolves around a newspaper reporter who returns to his hometown to raise his son. He finds himself involved in a murder mystery involving a mentally unstable cousin.

Would you recommend?: Yes. This is the kind of book that does not require a lot of thought and is easy to follow, but also is interesting and not easy to "guess" who the murderer and culprit was.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes I would! Thanks for the opportunity!

 

Wendi F. of Randall, MN

Loved it.

Rating:  5.

Describe the book in three words: Thrilling, riveting and unpredictable.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book will catch you from the first page, keep you guessing throughout and have you wanting more at the end. This was one of the best thrillers I have read in a long time. I can't believe that after working 20 years in a bookstore that I had never read any of his work.

Would you recommend?: I already have, because everyone needs to enjoy this wonderful author.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely.

 

Deb K. of Jericho, VT

I really enjoyed this book…more than I anticipated. I must admit that I was a little disappointed to have so many questions still at the end! I thought he did a good job of creating three-dimensional characters that you cared about. Some of the mysteries were pretty obvious from the start (Marla being Matthew’s real mother) but some of them were still hard to figure up to the very end.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Gripping, fast-paced cliffhanger.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: BROKEN PROMISE is a story about an unemployed widowed father who returns to his hometown and steps in to help his cousin, who has been accused of kidnapping and murder. Every answer leads to more questions in this twisty thriller. First in a trilogy.

Would you recommend?: I definitely will. It is a compelling and readable thriller with excellent character development. Many of my friends would be interested.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Definitely…I have to find out about the squirrels!

 

Susan J. of Willits, CA

I liked it very much. I like mysteries where I can't figure out the ending.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Unexpected twists, fast reading and thrilling.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A woman loses her baby at birth and then mysteriously ends up with a live one. As a family member tries to find the parents, the story gets very complicated.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I have several friends who like well-written mysteries. This is a good one because the writing just flows. It's a great summertime read.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely. It ends on quite a cliffhanger.

 

Kendall B. of Winston-Salem, NC

Just finished his new novel BROKEN PROMISE that I won from your contest, and once again it was a can’t-put-down book!

Rating: On a scale of 1-5 I give this book a definite 5!

Describe the book in three words: Riveting, suspenseful and provoking.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: In describing this book to a friend I would tell them that it is a suspenseful psychological thriller set in a regular town where there are secrets behind the white picket fences. And if you enjoy mysteries, then this is the book for you.

Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to a friend because it was a real page-turner and hard to stop reading!

Would you read more by Barclay?: I can’t wait until the next book set in Promise Falls comes out!

 

Janet G. of Hot Springs, AR

I loved BROKEN PROMISE. I really had trouble putting it down; I had to find out what was going to happen next.

Rating: I rate it at 5.

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, mysterious and good.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book is amazing. You never know what's going to happen next. And there are so many fascinating storylines. I don't know how many times my mouth dropped open, thinking, “What? You're kidding.” I loved it.

Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to my friends. I have already passed it on to my husband to read.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would definitely be interested in reading the next book. There are so many questions I want answered.

 

Andrew B. of Wethersfield, CT

I found this book to be one of those where the pages turn for you, and you are halfway toward the end before you realize it. Barclay captures the small town feeling exceptionally well and creates remarkably vivid characters. He is keeping a lot of balls in the air at once, and my chief complaint is that so much of the book is a set-up for the remaining two books in the trilogy. There are any number of loose ends looking for resolution, and even though a main plot line is resolved, it turns out it really isn't.  Although the book could theoretically stand alone and the resolution presented is satisfactory, there remains so many questions as well as a lot of suspicion surrounding nearly all of the characters. There is also the beginning of a romantic subplot, but it also is left as a cliffhanger. In addition, Barclay alternates between a first person narration and third person, which of course many authors do, but one wonders if he is going to carry this through the remaining two books. [SPOILERS] There are two central characters, the former reporter David Harwood and a veteran cop on the local police force, but one is left wondering about their guilt and involvement in some of myriad of plot threads remaining --- or at least how much some of their family members are involved --- which probably relates to Barclay's ability to get you to care about these two guys [END SPOILERS]. Also, it is interesting to note that Barclay has the town of Promise Falls serve as a reflection of new societal trends by having most of the major positions in the community filled by women, such as the mayor, the chief of police, the head of the hospital, etc. Quite impressive. 

Rating: I would rate it a 4 because of the loose ends and because I can't read the next volume right now.

Describe the book in three words: Believable, captivating mystery.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: See above.

Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to friends and family and already have plans to share it with a relative who loves these kinds of books.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Obviously, I can't wait to read the next Promise Falls book. Do we know when it will come out?

 

Diane M. of Walden, NY

I loved BROKEN PROMISE.

Rating: I would rate it a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, suspenseful and fast-paced.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: I would say that this book this book is a thrilling novel dealing with illegal adoption with a twist at the end.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend this book, because Mr. Barclay's books are always exciting with a twist.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I can't wait for the next book to come out. If you need someone to review it I volunteer.

 

Kathy D. of Maryville, TN

I really liked it.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, thought-provoking and cliff-hanging.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is a well-plotted mystery, with characters with whom you can identify. There is a twist at the end, which lets you see how there will be more books about Promise Falls. Hopefully a couple of loose ends will be tied up in future books.

Would you recommend?: Yes --- it is a great mystery about family gone wrong.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes --- definitely.

 

Eileen H of Mesquite, NV

It kept your interest all the way until the end. Good characters. Really wanted to keep reading!

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Describe the book in three words: Good storyline, entertaining and a good whodunit.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: The characters in Promise Falls all have issues, and you enjoy their interactions throughout the book.  David and Marla, the two main characters, have problems, but they are solved as you get further into the book. Enjoyable, and I will definitely recommend this to my sister’s book group.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I have already told three friends who love mysteries about this writer!

Would you read more by Barclay?: Sure.... I'm having my husband read it so we can talk about it! Thank you for the opportunity to read it.  I've had a Kindle forever, so this was the first paper book I've read in years! I have over  500 kindle books, so you know I do like to read.

 

Diane C. of Kingsland, GA

I found it to be a great mystery/ thriller. It held me through all the crazy turns.

Rating: I would rate it 4 stars.

Describe the book in three words: A great thriller.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This was a book that will take you on one crazy ride. The characters were just like people you would know. A book that you will not want to put down because you want to know what will happen next.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend it. I thought it was a book that was well done and would have a person on the edge of the chair wanting to find out what would happen next.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would love to read the next one, for sure.

 

Kathy F. of Stokesdale, NC

I thought it was great; full of twists and turns.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Fast-paced, intriguing and a fun read.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Good story-line, well-fleshed-out and believable characters, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end.

Would you recommend?: Yes, definitely --- I already have!

Would you read more by Barclay?: ABSOLUTELY!!!!! Please, please, please!!!

 

Sonnia F. of Naples, FL

I loved reading BROKEN PROMISE.

Rating: I would give it a rating of 5 out of 5.

Describe the book in three words: Captivating, intriguing and thrilling.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Reading this book is like traveling on a wild roller coaster. There are twists and turns, unexpected and thrilling. It captured my attention from the very beginning, and I reacted as a "super sleuth" throughout, second-guessing the solutions. You'll find yourself wanting more.

Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to a friend.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Are you serious? I MUST read the next book set Promise Falls. Waiting until spring 2016 is torturous. I would be reading it right now if I could!

 

Lisa N. of Minneapolis, MN

Very good read.

Rating:  5.

Describe the book in three words: Captivating, fast-paced and suspenseful

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  This thriller grabs your attention from the start & is hard to put down, with interesting character interplay and dialogue. Just enough twists and turns to keep you reading, but not so many that it became convoluted or burdensome to keep track of.  Sewed up enough of the plot to keep you satisfied, while still leaving you wanting more.

Would you recommend?: I already have!

Would you read more by Barclay?: Definitely. Can’t wait for it to be released.

 

Patricia R. of Henderson, NV

As a Linwood Barclay fan, I looked forward to reading an ARC of BROKEN PROMISE from the Book Reporter. I was hooked by the very first sentence on the first page: "I hate this town." Made me wonder who?, where?, and why? David Harwood the flawed but likable main character, narrates part of the story but is hampered by his limited point of view. The chapters alternate between his point of view and the omniscient point of view of the other characters. While David was my favorite character, I also admired the persistence and analytical mind of Barry Duckworth, an overweight, donut-loving detective. The smattering of some vulgar vocabulary actually adds to the realistic dialogue of certain characters. The plot's clever twists and turns and unexpected complications accelerate the level of suspense. There are a few loose "mystery" threads which will undoubtedly be picked up in the second book of the trilogy.

Rating:  Definitely a 5!

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, thrilling page-turner.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is my kind of book, where I can't wait to find out the resolution, but where I also don't want the story to end. There are several skillfully woven plots which make this book a fast-moving, on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller. Murder, intrigue, family secrets, and a hefty dose of humor all add up to a perfect summer selection.

Would you recommend?: I would highly recommend BROKEN PROMISE to friends and members of my book club. This is an easy and quick read with just the right amount of vividly depicted and believable characters, wondering what will happen next, and things and characters not always being what they appear to be. All this adds up to great entertainment.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would certainly look forward to reading books set in Promise Falls. Hopefully, Barclay fans won't have to wait too long for them to be written and published.

 

Deb M. of Perry, OH

Yes, I liked the book.

Rating:  Rating of 4 (very good).

Describe the book in three words: Fast-paced, engaging page-turner.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: BROKEN PROMISE is an engaging page-turner with a plot that weaves together a cast of characters that draw you in from the start.  It is a fast-paced, suspenseful tale of a small town where everyone thinks they know their neighbors. But do they really? 

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend, and I already have.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I can hardly wait to learn what Finley is up to next, whether Marla can keep it together, how David/Ethan move on, and how other loose ends get tied up.

 

Michael M. of Valley Village, CA

I LOVED it. It was a lot of fun, a good thrill ride that had some unpredictable plot twists. More often than not, I can see the "twists" coming a mile away. Not this time. I love being taken by surprise! It happened more than once. And to top it off, it is a real page-turner as well.  At some point, I just HAD to know what happened so I created opportunities to read. Always a good sign.

Rating: No question. 5. I toyed with the idea of a 4 because there are a lot of characters and each character seemed to have their own subplot. I started to feel like a juggler trying to remember who had what problem, etc. But when you realize that this is also setting up future books, it makes sense. So 5 it is.

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, unpredictable and addictive.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book is a thriller about a man who is trying to clear his cousin's name. His cousin, who gave birth to a stillborn ten months previously, all of a sudden has a live baby she claims an angel gave to her. All is not as it seems.

Would you recommend?: I already have to one fellow mystery lover, so yes. I think the book is well-written, moves quickly, never stops making sense, never makes you feel like you are suspending disbelief (another huge plus) and I think readers (whether they are thriller buffs or feel like trying a thriller for the first time) of all kinds will enjoy it...except my parents. I am always looking for books for my parents, who are rather religious so I look for books with no sex, swearing, etc. There is an “F” word on the first page if I recall correctly.  Not an issue for me but maybe for some.

Would you read more by Barclay?: YES.

 

Lea Ann M. of Seattle, WA

I give this book high marks for maintaining my interest. My reading time is usually limited to the evenings and I spent that time diligently going through the book, wanting to learn the particulars as the plot unfolded. 

Rating:  I rate this book at just shy of a 5; probably 4.75. Well done.

Describe the book in three words: Mesmerizing, intelligent and surprising.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book not only contains a tantalizing mystery, but human emotions which run the gamut from love to hate to protection to betrayal. It kept this reader reading far beyond my bedtime so that I could see how the mystery was solved and how the relationships between those involved changed, some for the better, some not. I would hope that other readers would be as involved with the tale as I.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend this book to a friend, because I could not set the book aside. Mr. Barclay captured my interest from the beginning and I wanted to know what happened next.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, very much so. The author left the door open, so to speak, for a sequel to BROKEN PROMISE and I am very much interested in following these characters in such a sequel.

 

Paige S. of Savannah, GA

I love BROKEN PROMISE.

Rating:  I rate it at 5!

Describe the book in three words: Engaging, heartwarming and addictive.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer:  He makes me feel like I know the characters he is writing about. I find myself CARING about what happens to each person. And I love the way he writes in the first person, using different chapters for each person as he connects all the dots! This book intrigued me because I found myself liking the characters and actually worrying about how the story would play out! Many questions answered, but many more left me hanging, and waiting on the next book. I NEED TO KNOW THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NUMBER 23! Please send my highest regards to Mr. Barclay! Love him and love his books!

Would you recommend?: Yes, I have already recommended this book to my friends because I love his style of writing.

Would you read more by Barclay?: When may I expect the next book?

 

Jamie B. of Los Angeles, CA

I loved BROKEN PROMISE! It was great that BROKEN PROMISE was peppered with characters from previous Linwood Barclay novels, but it was also written in such a way that you needn't have read those previous stories to really enjoy this one. I really enjoyed the development of the story, touching on David's past a bit, revisiting other characters, getting to know more new characters in Promise Falls. As the tension begins to build, the story takes turns that you don't expect it to, and by the last 100 pages, it's in full snowball effect and it's completely taken off and you don't want to put it down.

Rating: Definitely a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Thrilling, exciting, intense.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: I like to call Linwood Barclay’s books Suburban Thrillers…and BROKEN PROMISE totally fits that bill. Set in a small town with a very relatable cast of characters, this novel kept me guessing until the very last page. The story starts out simple enough: David Harwood’s cousin has somehow found herself with a child that isn’t hers, and the real mother is eventually found murdered in her own kitchen. Did Marla, David’s cousin, do it? Does it have anything to do with the other strange occurrences happening around town? Will Detective Duckworth ever open his eyes and see the real story of what’s going on? What are the other people of Promise Falls hiding? BROKEN PROMISE is an excellent thrill ride that has you hooked from the start. You feel for the characters and you want to know more about what’s happening to them and their small town. You won’t be disappointed by the action, the storytelling and the fact that there is more to come!

Would you recommend?: Would you recommend this book to a friend? Most definitely, and I already have! I would recommend this book to friends because the action is great, the narrative is spot on, the characters are completely relatable and react in ways that you would expect real people to react. And the intensity of the final 100+ pages is so good. Anyone who reads BROKEN PROMISE will not be able to wait for the next book in the series.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely! I actually cannot wait for the next one, especially because I need to find out what David's dad is hiding, how Olivia's murder ties in with Rosemary's murder and what the number 23 means!

 

Carol D. of Spotswood, NJ

I loved this book. The characters were interesting and the situations are believable. The book is narrated by a couple characters. It was fast paced with several plot twists and turns. There is more than one story in this book, and so many unanswered questions. I hope there is a sequel.

Rating: I rate this book 5 stars.

Describe the book in three words: Action, suspense and surprise.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A fast paced thriller with interesting characters and several plot twist and turns. Several questions will be answered but there are many questions left unanswered. The book will keep you guessing.

Would you recommend?: I have already recommended this book to several friends who like thrillers. There are several stories in this book and not all questions are answered. The ending will leave you wanting more.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Definitely! So many unanswered questions. Who is behind the squirrels, the fake rapes and the Ferris wheel incident, and what is the connection with the number 23. Who killed Rosemary and Olivia? What happened in Don's past that he says he wasn’t a good man?

 

Janet C. of Niles, IL

When I finished the book I thought of one word: WOW! I am a fan of Barclay’s now. This book grabbed me from the beginning. I love how he kept me guessing at the end of a chapter that would make me want to read just one more chapter.

Rating: I rate it a 5, 5 being the best.

Describe the book in three words: Masterful, suspenseful and exceptional.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Oh my gosh! A newspaper reporter David Harwood moves back home to a town called Promise Falls. His mother asks him to check on his troubled cousin, Marla. When he gets there, he walks in on an unbelievable situation. It appears that she had kidnapped a baby...again! And something went terribly wrong because there is blood on her front door. Things just keep turning bad to worse. A detective, Duckworth, is called in to investigate. He is also checking on some other strange incidences that are going on in town, such as someone killing squirrels, a Ferris wheel starting on its own and an attack on a woman at the nearby college. Can all this be related?

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would definitely recommend it to my friends. I already have.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would definitely want to read the next book. Actually I have to because I want to know what happens. The story doesn't end here.

 

Gerry M. of Marshfield, MA

I liked the book, BROKEN PROMISE, very much.

Rating: On a scale of 1-5, I would rate this book a 4.

Describe the book in three words: Intriguing, confusing and riveting.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: I felt there were too many characters and a bit confusing. The realization that Rosemary was not killed by the Doctor leads to a whole new theory, even though Dr. Sturgess was responsible for the other murders. It was not your typical happy ending, but a good read nonetheless.

Would you recommend?: I would definitely recommend this book to a friend, because of the surprise ending.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would definitely be interested in reading the next book, as I like the idea of trilogies. I will be passing this book on to some of my book club readers.

 

Susan D. of Breckenridge, MI

I enjoyed BROKEN PROMISE very much.

Rating: I would give it a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Can’t put down.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It is a thriller that keeps you reading to figure out the plot. Characters are very well described.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I am recommending to a friend who loves this type of book.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I want to read all the books in this series.

 

Robin F. of Tucson, AZ

I loved it and am going to read more.

Rating: Rate: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, suspenseful and excellent.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Same as above.

Would you recommend?: I have already recommended it.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Oh, yes please.

 

Michelle S. of Santa Rosa, CA

I enjoyed the book. The author kept me guessing, which is always great in a mystery.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words:  Intriguing, convoluted and surprising.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's a tale of twisted relationships and secrets in a small city that come to light when a unemployed reporter tries to clear his cousin on charges of murder. The chain of evidence he follows lead him to mysterious circumstances and lead the reader to a number of conclusions. Only one of the conclusions is correct --- or is it?

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend it to my friends who would rather read a book that requires some thought than one that is mostly gratuitous violence and bloodshed.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, now that I read the first one I have to find out the rest of the answers to the questions it asks.

 

Sherri H. of Gladstone, OR

I liked the way the author presented the shorter chapters and kept the story moving along --- it is a page-turner because you want to know what clue is next. I did get a bit confused by so many characters.  It does seem that we need to suspend our disbelief that so many people in this small town our so intertwined in each other’s lives over this period of two days. It doesn't make me want to live in a small town, but it does make me realize how what we do impacts the lives of others, often in ways we could never imagine. I was very disappointed in the ending, until I read this e-mail back to myself before responding to the questions. Side note:  I only noticed a couple of typos/logic/grammar errors, which I really appreciate!

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Soap-opera-ish mystery, interwoven small-town lives and a page-turner.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: After losing his newspaper job, a widower and his young son return to his childhood home to live with his parents. He soon finds himself "investigating" a family mystery that seem to involve almost everyone in Promise Falls.

Would you recommend?: Maybe. I don't usually recommend a book, but often I will tell people about what I am reading and want to discuss some ideas from what I am reading, so in that sense, if they were interested in what I found interesting, they might want to pick up the book. Some of the topics might be difficult emotionally for people to handle.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely (see above) --- I need to know what is up! Happy to know I just didn't miss everything when I was reading this one. Hopefully, I won't forget before the next one comes out. At least, thanks to you, I have the ARC of BROKEN PROMISE. Thanks.

 

Brenda S. of Brookville, IN

It engaged me from the first chapter.

Rating: 4.5.

Describe the book in three words: Dysfunctional, witty and engaging.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A tangled web of shocking twists. A determined character who chooses the “right” path instead of sweeping family business under the rug.

Would you recommend?: Maybe.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Kelly P. of Strongsville, OH

I enjoyed reading this book. The characters were real and relatable.

Rating: 5, assuming 5 is the highest rating.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, intense and fast-paced.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: I would describe this book as suspenseful, intense and a fast-paced read. The story is well-written and the characters are believable.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend this book to a friend, as it is suspenseful and keeps you interested until the very end of the book.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would be interested in the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Anne B. of Albuquerque, NM

BROKEN PROMISE was enthralling, riveting and fantastic. The story, the setting and the characters made this book come alive. This novel was so well-written and the various mysteries give this book the intrigue that is so important in thrillers.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Action, mystery and intrigue.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A multi-layered mystery taking place in a small Upstate New York town. Suspense combined with unique characters makes this a compelling novel.

Would you recommend?: YES.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would definitely want to read and be considered for the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Pamela F. of Seaford, DE

I loved it. I could not put it down and read it in just two days.

Rating: Definitely a 5.

Describe the book in three words: Compelling, excellent and thrilling.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It is a compelling read, telling the story of a town's and family's secrets. It keeps you guessing and wanting to read more.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I will definitely recommend.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Oh, yes, most definitely.

 

Louise M. of Seminary, MS

I loved BROKEN PROMISE.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Suspense, thriller and great.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: n/a

Would you recommend?: Yes, friends must read. Will recommend book.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Sharon L. of Divide, CO

I loved it. The writing was great, there were good characters and Promise Falls is a very interesting town with a lot going on.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Intriguing, fast-paced.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A very good mystery with a handful of main characters and several other minor characters. There is the one main storyline: a woman who lost a baby a few months ago is given a baby by an angel. There are also several other storylines, and what happens and how the storylines evolve is terrific!

Would you recommend?: Yes and I already have. Again, good writing and I really liked all of the various storylines. The main mystery is solved --- however, there will be three books in this series, each with its own standalone plot, while there is an ongoing plot throughout all three books. 

Would you read more by Barclay?: ABSOLUTELY! Too bad the next book is not out until next spring --- that is too long to wait! 

 

Gail C. of Hanover, PA

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. It was a fast read. But I felt Mr. Barclay was setting up too many cases that will probably be investigated in future books.

Rating: I would rate it a 4 because, as I said above, there were too many cases that weren't resolved in this book. I realize that Mr. Barclay wants to sell future books, but I feel it weakened this book.

Describe the book in three words: Clever, suspenseful, and, at times, amusing.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Suspense-filled story about a young father trying to help a cousin who had lost a baby then was given a baby by an "angel." But then the baby's real mother is found murdered.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend this book to a friend, because it is a fast-moving, suspenseful novel.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would like to find out who really killed Rosemary Gaynor, and the significance of the number 23 connected to the other crimes in the book.

 

Susan B. of Pawcatuck, CT

Loved it!

Rating: 4.5.

Describe the book in three words: Hard to put down.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Fantastic thriller that you will want to pass on to your friends who like the same genre. The story of David and Ethan is so good!

Would you recommend?: I already have recommended it to a friend. :)

Would you read more by Barclay?: Without a doubt!

 

Laurie W. of Fredonia, NY

I loved it!  I read it in one day and didn’t want to put it down.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Unpredictable, engrossing and intense.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: BROKEN PROMISE takes place in a small town in New York. There is murder, kidnapping and lots of crazy things happening all at once. However, they are all connected. We don’t find everything out until the end and even then you need to wait for the next book. A great edge of your seat, read all at once book!

Would you recommend?: Absolutely!  It is a page-turner that keeps you guessing until the end. With this being the first book in a trilogy we will have three great books to read.

Would you read more by Barclay?: YES!!! I can’t wait for it to be released!

 

Ivy P. of Montclair, NJ

A meaty story that slowly pulled me in and surprised me right up until the end. I loved how Barclay segmented his characters, and wove each of them to the other as the pieces to the puzzling murder and deception begins to come together.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Calculating, suspenseful, surprising.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: When a baby is dropped off with Marla who suffers from mental issues, it is just the beginning of a riddle gone bad. When the mother of the baby, Rosemary, is found dead, Marla's cousin David, an unemployed reporter, promises to get to the bottom of what he believes and hopes to be a set-up, hoping it will clear Marla from having to go to prison. As David gathers bits and pieces about Rosemary, he puts himself as well as others in a dangerous irreversible position. Just when you think you know who committed the crime, you are surprised to learn that plot included more players than you would have imagined from the initial evidence.

Would you recommend?: Yes! It is the kind of suspense story that you do not want to keep to yourself. It's a great beach read or for a long trip when you are not only looking for a big book but a big story as well.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Michelle H. of Mokena, IL

I LOVED it. 

Rating: 4.5

Describe the book in three words: Fantastic, twists and intrigue.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is the kind of book that you just can't put away, staying up way later than you should, thinking, "Just three more pages."  You will LOVE the ending.

Would you recommend?: I already have recommended this book to my friend and also my daughter-in-law, because they are both readers of suspense and this one definitely fit the bill.  Neither of them had read Linwood Barclay before either.  My friend already finished it and loved it as well.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would definitely want to read the next book set in Promise Falls and will be looking for it.

 

Trudy J. of South Fulton, TN

This was a fast-paced book. However, I felt there were just too many things going on in the town.  Also, at the end things were left undone --- however, I noticed there will be sequels, so I am sure that is why. I do enjoy Linwood Barclay's style of writing and find his books suspenseful. 

Rating: I rate it with a 4.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, exciting and over-crowded.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A man named David Harwood finds his cousin with a baby, even though she lost her child months ago.  He finds, also, that the baby's mother is dead in a brutal homicide. David tries to find out if his cousin had anything to do with the murder. His investigation leads him to many deceits by people he knows.

Would you recommend?: I would recommend it to one of my friends because she likes Linwood Barclay's books.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, to find the answer to other loose ends.

 

Jennifer T. of Marietta, GA

I really enjoyed this book. It kept me thinking.

Rating: Rated 5.

Describe the book in three words: Interesting, suspenseful and surprising.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A mystery that has a few stories going on. It keeps you wondering and doesn't end like you would guess.

Would you recommend?: I would absolutely recommend this book to any of my friends who like thrillers.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I will be reading the next book. I really want to find out more about these murders!

 

Dorothy B. of Burnsville, MN

I really liked it until the ending, which I thought left us wondering. I imagine a sequel is coming.

Rating:  I rate it a 4. Not a 5, because of the ending.

Describe the book in three words: Engaging, enjoyable and mysterious

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It is about a newspaper reporter for the Boston Globe who quits his good job and moves back to his hometown, with his son, after his wife dies. He encounters various happenings and tries to help. There are many twists and turns which help to make this a very intriguing book to read.

Would you recommend?: Yes.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Carla C. of Rhinelander, WI

I enjoyed the book BROKEN PROMISE!

Rating: I would give it 4 stars.

Describe the book in three words: Entertaining, intriguing and enjoyable.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: David is the central character in this book. The character development on all characters is pretty well laid out early. He has a cousin, Maria, who appears to have had some difficulties in life, and has some mental health issues. Soon, David is involved in helping prove his cousin is innocent and not involved in criminal activity, despite being an "easy target."

Would you recommend?: I would recommend this to a friend. I have many friends, like myself, who don't read enough "fun" books. This is the type of book that would be my "guilty pleasure." Something fast paced, an interlude from some heavy non-fiction books!

Would you read more by Barclay?: I think this is a great first book and I'd be interested in reading more in this Promise Falls series.

 

Jane M. of Knoxville, TN

This book was very good.

Rating: I rate this book at 4.

Describe the book in three words: Thrilling, chilling and suspenseful.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book to my friends. It is a very good book.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would love to read the next book in the set.

 

Suzanna P. of Rochester, NY

I like that it reminds us that life can change in an instant.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Intense, sad, mysteries.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: David has everything thrown at him --- death, deception, murder. He is hanging on for dear life, trying to not go over the edge as his life spirals out of control.

Would you recommend?: Yes I would --- it’s at times educational, and fantasy.

Would you read more by Barclay?:  Yes, I would --- unanswered questions. You left me wondering who did it.

 

Beverly W. of Jackson, MS

Very good!

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, nice plot twists and keep you up all night!

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Very suspenseful. You won't be able to put it down.

Would you recommend?: Yes, definitely.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Definitely. Lots of questions to be answered!!!! Love the plot twist at the end!

 

Joanne S. of Poughkeepsie, NY

I really enjoyed it. After I read it, I lent it to my mother (age 88) and sister (age 61) and they enjoyed it, too!

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Unpredictable, intriguing and suspenseful.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It was an interesting blend of several stories, centering on a murdered woman and how her young child ends up at the house of a young woman who had given birth to a stillborn child months ago. The closer I got to the end of the book, the harder it was to put down --- the tension just keeps mounting! The story of what happened to the murdered woman's child was concluded satisfactorily, but I have to admit that when I got to the last page I groaned because another of the stories was to be continued in the next book!

Would you recommend?: I already have --- I always recommend books to people who like the same genres as I. Well, I recommend them if I think people will enjoy them!

Would you read more by Barclay?: YES!

 

Barbara M. of Fitchburg, WI

I was not let down!

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Thriller that delivers.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A plot line that will keep you guessing what is going on in the small town of Promise Falls. Somehow Barclay connects these loose threads into evidence and reveals how everyone seems to have a secret.

Would you recommend?: Yes --- I loaned to my daughter as she is also a fan of Linwood Barclay’s.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely!

 

Kathy I. of Gardena, CA

I enjoyed this book very much even though I don't like cliffhangers.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Entertaining, easy and frustrating.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is a light, easy read with a few too many odd twists. It's great for a beach read where you don't want to think too deeply, and can let the lack of suspense and resolution go for the sake of fun storytelling.

Would you recommend?: I would recommend this book, with reservations, but I do know some who will just eat this one up.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I will have to read the next book to see what happens with the unresolved ending from this one.

 

Deb A. of Libertyville, IL

n/a

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Murder, intrigue and humor.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: After the first chapter I was hooked.

Would you recommend?: Yes, because it was a book I really enjoyed.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely.

 

Lillian T. of Orlando, FL

I think the book was more about crime, mystery and suspense, rather than a thriller. BROKEN PROMISE was an easy read and a real page-turner. I love the way Barclay developed his characters! The plot was very well-written, full of twists and unexpected events. The more I turned the pages, the faster I read.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Small-town crime scandals.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A breathless thriller, a story of betrayal, dark secrets and unsolved murders in a small town where everyone knows each other --- or think they do. Extreme characters, intense storyline and breathtaking plot twists will keep you riveted only to leave you desiring for more.

Would you recommend?: Yes, only if my friend has patience to wait for sequels, especially when the first book ends with so many unanswered questions.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, definitely I would. I am curious to see the outcome of all the unsolved mysteries and crimes of this first book.

 

Marjorie C. of Seattle, WA

I thought BROKEN PROMISE was a great book and I'm surprised that I’ve never read any of his books.

Rating:  5.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, exciting and fast-paced.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This book is edge-of-the-seat suspense. Each character has his/her own demons aside from what is going on. This book had me wanting more.

Would you recommend?: Yes. Most of my friends are avid readers and we have the same taste in books.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Brenda W. of Columbus, GA

I liked it a lot. I didn't realize that it would be the first in a series, though, so I was a bit disappointed the whole story wasn't wrapped up at the end.

Rating: 4.

Describe the book in three words: Fast-paced, engaging and surprising.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's a good book for "lighter" reading, and it definitely sucks you in and makes you pay attention. It would be a great vacation or weekend read.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I liked it a lot, and was able to get completely caught up in it to the point where I didn't want to put it down to go do anything else.

Would you read more by Barclay?: YES --- it's still bothering me that I don't know how everything ended!

 

Jane M. of Monticello, AR

I thought it was very good with all the twists and turns. I still wasn't sure of the ending.

Rating: 5.

Describe the book in three words: Spellbinding, riveting and gripping.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It has more twists and turns than a mountain road. You don't always see everyone's involvement.

Would you recommend?: Yes. It holds your attention to the end.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes.

 

Sheila C. of Columbia, MD

I liked the book a lot. I started it on a Tuesday evening and finished it Friday morning. The only thing I didn't really like was that it leaves loose ends for, I assume, the remaining books in the trilogy. I really like books that can stand alone even if they are part of a series.

Rating: I would give it a 3.5. I might have given it a higher rating if it had tied up loose ends.

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, well-written and somewhat predictable.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: The book is about David, who, with his son, moves back in with his parents after the death of his wife.  He becomes embroiled in his cousin's life when somebody mysteriously leaves a baby with her --- or did she steal the baby?

Would you recommend?: I already have recommended the book to my sister, because I know it's the type of book she likes.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, very much.

 

Mimi W. of Windsor, CT

Once I got into it I enjoyed it.  Very slow at first.

Rating:  3.5.

Describe the book in three words: Suspenseful, humorous and descriptive.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's a good mystery, although not quite as suspenseful as James Patterson. There is a good surprise ending making me want to read more.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I like trilogies.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I want to know who is guilty and to tie up other loose ends.

 

Kathy C. of Springfield, OH

I enjoyed the book but figured out the baby was Marla's about a third of the way through the book.

Rating:  3.5.

Describe the book in three words: Enjoyable, predictable and engaging.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Enjoyable, easy summer reading. A thriller that leaves you wanting to know what comes next.

Would you recommend?: Yes.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I have to find out about the loose ends left in the book.

 

Alice M. of South Abington Township, PA

I enjoyed reading BROKEN PROMISE. It had a lot of twists and turns and everyone had secrets, so the list of suspects to the crime was long. I liked the David storyline, and see lots of promise for more stories to come. I don't think it was a deep book or great literature, but the story was good and I am looking forward to more of this family. It just makes me curious to see what is going to happen in this old town.

Rating: I would rate the book a 3.5.

Describe the book in three words: Secrets, serpentine and intriguing.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It is a good mystery that is not too intense or violent, so you can read late into the night. You'll like some of the characters and want to slap a few others, but that makes it interesting. There are some storylines that leave you hanging and make you want more, since the author does not tie everything up in a neat bow.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would recommend the book. It was an interesting, quick read true to the mystery genre. The main characters were likeable, and there is room for a sequel or two with all the twists and storylines.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Absolutely. I am looking forward to it.

 

Mary B. of Lincoln, NE

I enjoyed the main plot of BROKEN PROMISE. I did not think the subplots added anything to the novel. [SPOILERS] In fact, the death of the 23 squirrels and the three mannequins in Cage 23 was never explained. The explanation of who was responsible for the wife's death left me unsatisfied. I saw no correlation between the motive for the death of the girl waiting outside for her fiancé and the wife who was killed in her home other than the method and style of killing [END SPOILERS]. I am not a prude, but I thought the “F” word was used excessively.

Rating: I would rate BROKEN PROMISE as a 3+.

Describe the book in three words: Intriguing, page-turner and attention-grabber.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: BROKEN PROMISE is about the mysterious appearance of a baby at the home of a woman whose baby had died. The circumstances surrounding this event led to a roller coaster of events.

Would you recommend?: I might recommend this book to a friend for the above reasons.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would be interested in reading the next book set in Promise Falls.

 

Nancy B. of Savannah, GA

How can you not be intrigued by a book that, in its first few chapters, hooks you on infant kidnapping, murder and hanging squirrels? And let's not forget the detective fighting his addiction to donuts. I thought it was good, but there were too many subplots. I found myself wondering how he was going to tie them all together. The spoiler alert is that he doesn't. I loved GONE WITH THE WIND, which left me --- and millions of others --- wondering whether Scarlett would eventually get Rhett, but that ending was intentional. When you say that this is going to be the first in a series of three, it's like he's purposely leaving you hanging so you'll buy the next book, and, hopefully and presumably, the one after that. It's like what James Patterson did with HOPE TO DIE, when you don't know whether Alex is going to get his family back. I haven't finished NATCHEZ BURNING yet, but I see that Greg Iles is doing the same thing. If this is a new author trend, I don't like it.

Rating: 3. I would give it a 4 if he tied up more of the loose ends, and I'd give it a 5 if he tied them all up!

Describe the book in three words: Exciting, suspenseful and cliff-hanging.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's a good murder mystery with a lot of subplots, not all of which are resolved by the end of the book. If you're going to read it, you need to be prepared to read the second book, and, probably, the third. There are some likable characters in the book, but even some of the good ones do some pretty terrible things, so don't plan on falling in love with any of them!

Would you recommend?: Yes, but with the caveat that this is the first of three, and there are numerous sub-plots that leave you hanging.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, definitely. I want some answers.

 

Judy S. of Dallas, TX

Not his best.

Rating: 3.

Describe the book in three words: Excessive plot lines.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: There's a lot going on in Promise Falls. Barclay gives the reader appealing good guys and appalling villains. Once the action starts, it's a fast read.

Would you recommend?: Maybe. It's an easy read, but not as good as some of his other books.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Maybe, once I get over being annoyed about the cliffhanger/teaser ending.

 

Kevin D. of Barrington, IL

I was a little disappointed in it. I feel like most books that are in a trilogy can still stand alone. This book left multiple open issues in order to set up the future books. 

Rating:  3.

Describe the book in three words: Predictable, open-ended and decent.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: Decent read, somewhat predictable. Be prepared that the story is going be told over multiple books.

Would you recommend?: Maybe --- it was somewhat well-written in the aspect that the main story about a baby switch seems like it could happen but I would prefer that the book stand on its own more. The book set up at least three things to be resolved in future books.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I hate being left hanging.

 

Pam C. of Florence, MS

Overall, it was a good read. However, I did think that there were too many characters in the overall story. In my opinion, it would have been better to cut back on the number of characters and develop these more in depth.

Rating: I would rate it a 3.

Describe the book in three words: Choppy, thriller and contemporary.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: This is an interesting read about a man with a troubled past who returns home with his young son, hoping that having the help of his parents will help with some of the problems his own son is experiencing. Instead of this, more difficulties spring up, not only for his son but also for the father himself.

Would you recommend?: Yes, I would. It held my attention, and I wasn’t sure who the actual villain was until the last few pages. I like books that are unpredictable.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Yes, I would. Now that I know the characters, I would like to follow what happens with them in the future.

 

Erika L. of Washington, NJ

I thought BROKEN PROMISE was a fast-paced thriller. The short chapters and change of viewpoints made me want to continue reading. Even though I figured out what the twist would be early on, I still enjoyed the story. I did not like that it ended with a mystery still unsolved, but I understand the reasoning behind it, since it is the first of three books.

Rating: I would give this book a 3.

Describe the book in three words: Fast-paced, thrilling and engaging.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: BROKEN PROMISE is a fast-paced thriller. It revolves around a big family secret and will leave you wanting more.

Would you recommend?: I might recommend this book to a friend who likes fast-paced thrillers.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I would be interested in reading the next book because I want to find out the answer to the mystery left unsolved.

 

Libby H. of Hope Valley, RI

Started a bit slow for me, but picked up as I read.

Rating: 3.

Describe the book in three words: Small town secrets.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: After the death of his wife, David returns with his son to his hometown of Promise Falls to begin a new phase of his life. A murder, missing baby, and ongoing family secrets rekindle his reporter instincts and he can't help but pursue this story, even if it involves those he loves. Interesting, realistic family dynamics.

Would you recommend?: Yes, to my friends who read mysteries/thrillers.

Would you read more by Barclay?: I think so...this novel left questions that I'd like to see resolved some way.

 

Kerri D. of Fairfield, CT

I thought BROKEN PROMISE had a lot of, well, promise. It was loaded with twists, jammed with myriad plotting, many red herrings to choose from and the last 30 pages were so packed with action, it felt like a cross between a screw-ball comedy and an action movie. I skimmed it to get the relevant data. I wish the writer had been more descriptive with the characters and the town. Starting off a trilogy with the hero being such a loser was annoying...not an underdog, a loser. [SPOILERS] I hope he gets a job and doesn't end up working for the corrupt former mayor, living at home with his parents (the dialogue between them was so clichéd) and dating the bully's mom/trailer park gun moll [END SPOILERS]. I enjoy imagining, but I like to be guided. Upstate ghost town? I had no real sense of who his cousin was, and why she made the choices she did. Ditto for her powerful mother.

Rating: I would rate it a 2.5.

Describe the book in three words: Action, suspenseful and cliffhanger.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: A baby is kidnapped. Desperate characters doing very desperate things in a town whose glory has faded, and where employment is scarce. A lot of interesting characters, and a lot of action, some very surprising. Also a college campus dealing with rapist/animal sacrifice etc...so, timely.

Would you recommend?: Yes. I work at a library and many people like this sort of suburban mystery genre.

Would you read more by Barclay?: Well, I feel I must read the next one. What the heck does 23 mean?

 

Matt D. of Opelika, AL

I had hoped I would like this book, but found that it was rather slow and too long. It seemed more like a setup for the next two books rather than a standalone novel. The last chapter reminded me of the tease at the end of the credits of a Marvel Comics movie. It was a set-up to promote the next book. I hated the attempt in the first part of the book to make everyone (both male and female) look like they all wanted to audition for replacing Jay Leno. The cheap and corny puns got old very fast. There is no great suspense since I knew about half way through about the baby's real mother. All I couldn't figure out was who killed the woman.

Rating: 2.5.

Describe the book in three words: Slow, slow, slow.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: It's not worth the time it takes to read --- it’s almost 500 pages. It's about a town where everyone has a terrible secret but you don't find out what a lot of them actually are.

Would you recommend?: No.

Would you read more by Barclay?: No.

 

Karen R. of St. Clair Shores, MI

I really tried to like this book, but I really found it pretty ho-hum. I haven't read any of Barclay’s other books, so I have nothing to compare it to, and I am not compelled to pick up another even though this was the first in a series.

Rating: 2.

Describe the book in three words: Unthrilling, uncompelling and uninteresting.

Describe the book in three sentences or fewer: An ex-reporter tries to clear his cousin of murder and kidnapping, with a semi-happy ending.

Would you recommend?: No, but I would pass it on to someone else.

Would you read more by Barclay?:  No, it did not really leave me hanging. Needs editing.