Some shall break by Ellie Marney

Fans of None shall sleep will be thrilled with the return of Emma Lewis and Travis Bell. Emma has been trying to live a normal life as a College student, when a series of murders in Pittsburgh seem to resemble those of the Berryville Butcher, Daniel Huxton. Emma was the sole survivor in that case and she agrees to go to Pittsburgh, hoping that her insights into the mind of a serial killer will help prevent other girls from dying. Meanwhile Travis has been training with the FBI, and Kristin Gutmunsson, twin of the psychopath, Simon, from None shall sleep, is also assisting the FBI, wanting to gain some leniency for her twin, who is on death row. The three collaborate with the police and FBI investigating leads to track down the killer.

Exciting and fast paced, the story will keep the reader glued to the page, the suspense gradually building up as the trio use their wits following clues. There are some dark moments and readers will be very afraid that the killer will capture Emma.

As well as being a thrilling crime novel, Some shall break is an exploration of post traumatic stress. Emma is constantly reminded of the trauma that she experienced as a prisoner of Huxton, and the reader is taken through how she copes with therapy from a compassionate professional who is always on call for her. The theme of loyalty is also explored in depth. Should Kristin put her twin first, or the hunt for the killer? Where should Travis place his allegiance – to the FBI or to Emma? The growing relationship between Travis and Emma is also a highlight of the book.

The conclusion leaves the reader eagerly anticipating another book in the series. Readers who enjoyed the Agathas series and books by Karen McManus will be happy to move onto this series of psychological thrillers.

Themes: Mystery, Psychological thriller.

Pat Pledger