Broken Souls: An absolutely addictive mystery thriller with a brilliant twist

Lottie Parker is a compelling character in Irish detective fiction, and she is first on the scene of a murder investigation. When she discovers that Fiona's eight-year-old daughter Lily didn't return home from her dance recital, she takes the case into her own hands, risking her life to face the killer. Broken Souls is a heart-stopping thriller that will keep you guessing until the very last page.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2021
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Lottie Parker is a captivating character in Irish detective fiction, as portrayed by the talented Liz Nugent in her novel "Our Little Cruelties." The story takes place on a dark winter morning when bride-to-be Cara Dunne is found hanging in her home, dressed in her wedding dress, with a lock of hair removed. Detective Lottie Parker is the first on the scene, and as she examines Cara's bruised and battered body, she is left wondering who could have hated her enough to commit such a heinous act at the happiest time of her life.

The case takes a darker turn when another shocking discovery is made. The broken body of a second young woman, Fiona Heffernan, is found pushed from the roof of the hospital where she worked. Fiona was also due to be married, and her body is clad in a wedding dress, with a lock of her hair cut off. The killings seem so personal that Lottie is convinced the girls have been killed by someone they knew.

As Lottie prepares to break the news to Fiona's family, she remains on high alert for any suspicious activity. However, her blood runs cold when she makes a discovery that sends chills down her spine. Fiona's eight-year-old daughter, Lily, did not return home from her dance recital that afternoon. Terrified that Lily will be the next victim of a twisted and dangerous individual, Lottie takes the case into her own hands, risking her life as she confronts the killer.

"Broken Souls" is a gripping thriller that will keep readers guessing until the very last page. If you enjoy the works of Karin Slaughter, Robert Dugoni, and Rachel Caine, this novel is sure to captivate your attention. Patricia Gibney has crafted a story that is both suspenseful and emotionally charged, with characters that are complex and well-developed.

The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the lengths that one would go to protect those they care about. Lottie Parker is a strong and determined protagonist, who is willing to put her life on the line to bring justice to the victims. Her determination and resilience are inspiring, and she proves that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for redemption.

The supporting characters in "Broken Souls" are equally compelling. Fiona's family, particularly her husband and daughter, are portrayed with depth and emotion. Their grief and loss are palpable, and their struggle to cope with the tragedy is relatable. Lottie's colleagues, including her partner, Jack, and the forensic team, also play important roles in the investigation.

The writing in "Broken Souls" is masterful, with a vivid and descriptive style that transports readers to the heart of the story. The author's attention to detail is impeccable, and the pacing is perfect, keeping readers engaged from the beginning to the end.

In conclusion, "Broken Souls" is a must-read for anyone who loves a good thriller. Patricia Gibney has created a story that is both suspenseful and emotionally charged, with characters that are unforgettable. If you are looking for a novel that will keep you guessing until the very last page, this is the one for you.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 152 x 232 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780751582673