| Title | : | The Stolen Hours (Joe Talbert, #3) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0316703494 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780316703499 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages | : | 320 |
| Publication | : | First published September 7, 2021 |
| Awards | : | Minnesota Book Award Genre Fiction (2022) |
Lila Nash is on the verge of landing her dream job—working as a prosecutor under the Hennepin County Attorney—and has settled into a happy life with her boyfriend, Joe Talbert. But when a woman is pulled from the Mississippi River, barely alive, things in the office take a personal turn.
The police believe the woman’s assailant is local photographer Gavin Spenser, but the case quickly flounders as the evidence wears thin. It seems Gavin saw this investigation coming—and no one can imagine how carefully he has prepared.
The more determined Lila is to put Gavin behind bars, the more elusive justice becomes. Battling a vindictive new boss and haunted by the ghosts of her own unspeakable attack, which she’s kept a dark secret for eight long years, Lila knows the clock is ticking down. In a race against an evil mastermind, it will take everything Lila’s got to outsmart a killer—and to escape the dark hold of her own past.
“A near-perfect thriller, The Stolen Hours is a true nail-biter that will have you reading long into the night.” — Book Reporter
“Even readers who predict the tale’s biggest twist before it arrives will still have the breath knocked out of them by the surprises that follow.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“There’s not a moment misplaced or a second lost. With the precision of a watchmaker, Eskens assembles the fine parts of a mystery and sets them to the tempo of a thriller, leaving the reader breathless.” —Craig Johnson, author of the Walt Longmire Mysteries
The Stolen Hours (Joe Talbert, #3) Reviews
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The Stolen Hours by Allen Eskens
Life is looking good for Lila Nash and her boyfriend, Joe Talbert. Awaiting the results of her bar exam, Lila works as a prosecutor under the Hennepin County Attorney’s office in Minneapolis. Due to an accident taking her old boss out of action, Lila is assigned to work under a vindictive prosecutor who is determined to ruin any chances of a law career for her.
But Lila is no stranger to adversity or the cruelty of others. Despite her stoic demeanor, Lila continues to struggle with the memories and hurt inflicted on her when she got drunk at a high school party, eight years ago. She knows what it means to be physically attacked and to have that time in her life exposed for all to see. She's worked so hard to pull herself up and above that time in her life only to now have a powerful man determined to destroy it.
On another front is Gavin Spenser, a local photographer who police suspect attempted to murder a young woman. Lila is pretty sure Gavin was involved in her attack all those years ago. As Lila works to pull together other cases similar to the young woman's attack, cases where the women were murdered, Gavin is one step ahead of the police and Lila and he actually welcomes this game of hide and seek. Gavin is hiding in plain sight and Lila is determined to bring him down, even as her career is threatened by those who should be on her side.
The Stolen Hours is a stand alone that does not require the reading of any previous books by Eskens. This time Joe Talbert, who was featured in two Eskens books, sits in the background as Lila's past and present collide in a way that could undermine Lila's very sense of self. As much as she wanted to have put the past behind her, she knows she can't do that yet. I enjoyed watching Lila use her brains to try to outsmart a man who has been playing a game long before anyone knew what he was doing.
Publication: September 7, 2021
Thank you to Mulholland Books for this print ARC. -
**NEW BOOK "FORSAKEN COUNTRY" COMING IN FALL, READ THIS ONE FIRST"**
This novel was 5* all the way, the writing flows so well and the story is riveting.
As with all of Mr. Esken’s previous novels, this is a strongly character driven, multi-layered mystery which also includes some courtroom drama.
In this novel we turn away from the male protagonists that I have grown to love so that we can get to know Lila Nash. What an amazingly strong woman she is. Lila had some deep personal problems and trauma in high school that she overcame to get where she is now.
Lila is working as a prosecutor under the Hennepin County Attorney’s office in Minneapolis, she is awaiting the results of her bar exam. She admires the attorney she is working under, Andi Fitch, and they are starting to forge a good working relationship.
THERE IS EVIL LURKING IN THE CITY THAT LILA NOW CALLS HOME.. As the novel opens, a woman named Sadie Vaulk, is struggling for her life after being drugged, assaulted and thrown into a river near a large falls. But Sadie is stronger than her assailant thought and is a good swimmer. She manages to clear her drugged mind and draws enough strength to swim to shore where she is rescued by the police, barely alive.
When this case comes across Lila’s desk she feels a strong urge to find this monster and bring him to justice. The DA and police work together and identify the likely killer as Gavin Spencer, a local photographer. They have no solid evidence to convict him. It was Detective Nikki Vang who was working Sadie’s case who started to put the pieces together. The details of the assault, etc triggered a memory of past women found dead, tied the same way, tossed in the river!!
Together the detectives and Lila start to work backwards through Gavin’s life, linking him to various murders during the past years. There were never any witnesses or survivors before. This time, Lila is determined he will pay for the lives that he has ruined. She has a personal connection to his story which you will discover when you read the novel!!!
Meanwhile, Gavin, a psychopath who has killed before, is planning how he will cover up his assault of Sadie. He is a serial killer who has gotten away with his crimes before and he is sure that he is clever enough that he has once more “covered his tracks”. It’s an incredible view into the mind of a killer!!
There are so many strong women in this novel, the lead detective, Nikki Vang; Andi Fitch, Lila’s supervising attorney and mentor and of course Lila herself!! It’s exciting to watch her growth from the beginning of the novel until it’s riveting ending. She learns how strong she really is and is able to find some peace with her past.
Mr. Esken’s ability to make me feel and hear what this serial killer was thinking was amazing. The tension never lets up during the entire novel and the CONCLUSION IS STUNNING AND NOT ONE SOON TO BE FORGOTTEN!!!
It was a privilege to read and review this beautifully written suspense novel.. I received an ARC of “The Stolen Hours” from the author and publisher through Edelweiss. -
To Catch a Thief.
I love lawyers.
How often do you hear THAT?
I should clarify that I love reading about lawyers in books.
Strategy and courtroom drama are attractants for me and are well represented here along with dodgy defendants and jailhouse shenanigans.
With several strong women protagonists taking center stage, I was cheering for fledgling attorney Lila Nash with a calamitous history. Not to be mistaken for yet another character making stupid decisions, she’s wily and fun to read about.
Add a dogged and smart female detective and you have equal parts legalese, police procedure, and thriller. The story is tinted with feminism and was perfect for my tastes - I loved it from the start.
Did I mention a crafty killer? He thought he had it all figured out...
This was worth every minute invested. I really liked the author's writing style and will check out his other titles as this is my first.
Thank you to DeAnn for reading and discussing this with me making for fun buddy read.
Hardback copy purchased from Barnes and Noble. -
Looks like Lila’s past just caught up to her! So…Is she ready to face it?
Lila has a new job with the prosecutor’s office. Her boss would like nothing more than to see her fall flat on her face and watch her new career go down in flames. He wants her gone! And an untimely stumble in the courtroom may have just provided him with the ammunition he needs.
But Lila has good reason to freeze. The defendant may be the same person who attacked her years ago. Now accused of rape and attempted murder of another woman. Shocked, she wonders. Are there other women out there? Could he be a serial rapist/murderer?
This was a rapid-fire murder mystery that drew me in right from the beginning. I was fascinated by the different perspectives and how the storylines played out. Running parallel until ultimately converging.
I was hoping for a bit more of an explosive ending but all in all, it was a completely satisfying read and certainly looking forward to his next!
A buddy read with Susanne.
Posted to:
https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books. -
4.5 stars, rounded up
Allen Eskens has once again crafted a fast paced, intense mystery. Lila Nash is working in the Hennepin County prosecutor’s office as a clerk, awaiting the results of her bar exam. When she’s transferred to work under Andi Fitch handling serious crimes, she gets drawn into one case that has a connection to her own past. There’s also a subplot about a malicious boss trying to undermine Lila.
As always, Eskens has created characters that are smart and intense. Lila was assaulted by two men 8 years ago and she still bears the mental and physical scars. Andi is a hard boss, but also turns out to be the kind of mentor Lila needs. Niki Vang is the detective and she makes the connection of this case to three others in the last 6 years. Gavin Spenser is the serial killer they’re trying to convict. He’s equally smart, always thinking multiple steps ahead, which is why he hasn’t been caught to date.
This is a book I sped through, wanting to see who would outmaneuver whom. It’s a nice mix of legal thriller and police procedural. Eskens gives the reader a real understanding of the difference between knowing and proving someone is guilty.
What I loved is how the women all work together, giving each other strength, with a single minded purpose. And watching Lila find the courage to move forward despite her past and those out to get her was perfect.
Eskens provides us with lots of twists and the ending was fabulous. One I didn’t see at all.
Eskens tends to have characters appear in different books. Characters that were minor in previous books, become major ones in others. And vice versa. Thus, each of the books can be read easily as standalones. But his writing is so dynamic, I recommend each and every thing he’s written.
My thanks to Mulholland Books for an advance copy of this book. -
Review posted to blog:
https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
A masterful character-driven mystery suspense, about Lila Nash, who fans of Allen Eskens have come to know and love.
Lila Nash, the girlfriend of Joe Talbert (from The Life We Bury and The Shadows We Hide), has always been focused on her career and she is finally exactly where she wants to be. Working for Hennepin County as Prosecutor. Awaiting her bar results, she is this close to having everything she wants.
When a case involving a woman named Sadie Vaulk who was drugged, assaulted, and almost murdered, falls into Lila’s lap, it hits really close to home.
Investigating this case with Lila, is Detective Nikki Vang (who Eskens fans may recall as being Max Rupert’s former partner in prior novels). Once Detective Vang starts looking into this case, she discovers several other women who went missing years prior and whose bodies were disposed of in the same way the assailant attempted to dispose of Ms. Vaulk’s and it becomes clear that this is the work of a serial.
Taut, tense, and dramatic, The Stolen Hours is captivating from the first sentence. As a huge fan of Allen Eskens, I have been waiting for the release of this novel since having read his last novel, Nothing More Dangerous. It did not disappoint. I adore Lila and was cheering her on throughout. Though I thought this book wrapped up a tad neatly, I thoroughly enjoyed it and loved the ending.
Having met the author, Allen Eskens, in early March 2020, right before the shutdown, I got a chance to discuss all of his characters with him, including my personal favorite, Max Rupert. It was an absolutely fabulous conversation and he even gave me a sneak peek into his plans for future novels. I won’t spoil the surprise, but let’s just say that I will be waiting with bated breath for his next book.
This was a buddy read with Kaceey which we both enjoyed quite a bit.
A huge thank you to Mulholland Books via NetGalley. -
Lila Nash is kicking butt and taking names. She has almost reached her goal of passing the bar and working in the prosecutor's office. A suspect in a kidnapping appears before the judge and Lila is thrown back to the most traumatic night of her life. But, does she even know this guy? Could that night from eight years ago come back with a vengeance? Or will it be Lila taking control? Told in three parallel narratives -- 1) Gavin Spencer, the OCD criminal mastermind 2) Lila Nash and the legal strategy, and 3) Niki Vang, detective extraordinaire. This is a fantastic combination of #metoo, a legal thriller, and a police procedural. Now that I have read three books featuring Lila and Joe I do hope that the next one will have a plot where Lila and Joe work together like they did in
The Life We Bury.
Love this series. Looking forward to seeing more of Joe and Lila -- and Niki! -
All you had to do was be nice. Words to the wise. Real and imagined slights loom large. All of us have a secret history to some extent, things we keep to ourselves, not ready for prime time sharing. We are a product of our upbringing, certainly. A mother's love is usually real, but does not always preclude nurturing that may have been hideously skewed. And thus, some emerge into adulthood with scars, but stronger for it, more equipped to deal with life. Others are not able to overcome their shaky beginnings and evolve into monsters.
Exceptional characters, and bonus points to the author for the three strong females in the story. Loved the new (to me) word "dickishness". -
I love this author. I love how character-driven he is, and how important it is to him to make sure his readers get to know them (his characters).
We get to know Lila, Joe Talbert’s girlfriend, more personally in this book, as she comes into her own as a Prosecutor. If you are looking for Joe, he makes minor appearances. And for me, that was okay. I was excited to meet and learn more about Lila.
We learn more about Lila’s past trauma and anxiety issues, and the cause and effect of them from an incident that occurred when she was 18-years old. Now, starting out her new job, with her desire to succeed, she is thrust up against Frank Dovey who isn’t supportive, and gratefully a reassignment to Andi Fitch who is allowing her confidence to grow.
A big case in front of her is that of Gavin Spencer, a creepy psychopath. His most recent victim was able to identify him, and the evidence is building against him. Because his behaviors are similar to her own personal experience, Lila is determined to put him away.
The story is a slow build. The characters are well-crafted. The author does a great job of creating strong and determined women characters.
The ending…
Unexpected and thrilling. (No spoilers from me!)
If you haven’t read any previous Allen Eskens novels, that is okay, you can read this one as a stand-alone. -
In the first in this series,
The Life We Bury, we first met Joe and Lila. Very likable and relatable characters. In the second book, we learned more about Joe and his backstory. In this, the third, the attention turns to Lila, and her past and current challenges.
While waiting for the results of the bar exam, she is working as a prosecuted, though under supervision. A case that is brought to them, a drugging, rape and attempted murder, the accused and the case is challenging but also something more. In order to prevail, Lila must come to terms with a horrific event from her last and conquer her own ghosts.
Some of the events are a tad far fetched but I love books that feature women overcoming and finding new strengths. -
"You don't throw away a whole life just because it's banged up a little." (Chris Cooper)
Lila Nash has the emotional scars that life dealt out to her. But now Lila is on the precipice of a new hard-fought-for-career as a prosecutor in the Hennepin County Attorney's Office. She's paid her dues over the years after heavy drinking in her younger days. And even deeper and darker was a rape and sexual assault that was never solved. Lila just gets better and better at submerging those terrifying thoughts that often scurry about in her mind.
I commend Allen Eskens for taking on a heavy-duty theme in The Stolen Hours. His character of Lila Nash is a solid reflection on regaining lost ground. Lost ground brutally taken by the yard from the original evil doers and then shamefully by those who sit in judgment after the fact. As with so many others, Lila has been left wounded in the aftermath. Coping skills are shored up only to be left teetering on the edge after an encounter with a vindictive boss. Our Lila fights back.....
But those who've been riddled with battle scars recognize the same wounds in others. Lila will take on the legal fight of her life when encountering a rapist/murderer who is brilliant of mind and treacherous in covering his trail. Gavin Spenser has used his photography business to zero in on his victims. His wealth and his analytical skills keep him off the radar. But for how long?
The Stolen Hours is power-driven by some outstanding women characters. Again, Eskens hands the keys to the females in this one with Lila, Andi Fitch her new supervisor, and Detective Niki Vang. Sometimes life muddies up our vision of the here and now. And then sometimes life sends in those who are determined to right the wrongs and undo the doings of the bad guys. The Stolen Hours does just that. Bravo, Allen Eskens, just bravo. -
The Stolen Hours by Allen Eskens is a standalone thriller but it does have ties to other books by Allen Eskens. The main character in The Stolen Hours is the girlfriend of one of Eskens’ previous characters, Joe Talbert. However, while the lead in this book is a spin off character you do not need to have read the Joe Talbert series to love this book as my rating reflects since I’ve never read the first series myself.
Lila Nash has been working for years to land her dream job of becoming a prosecutor of violent criminals. When she takes on a case of a victim that had survived an attack Lila’s own past comes flooding back to her as being a survivor herself. But the moment in the courtroom that Lila hesitates could put her career at risk which makes Lila even more determined to prove herself and put Gavin Spenser behind bars where he belongs.
Being a huge fan of legal thrillers I was excited to pick up The Stolen Hours and begin following this new feisty yet flawed lead, Lila Nash. This one wasn’t heavy on the courtroom drama that comes with some legal thrillers. Instead this is focused on outside of the courtroom and with finding the evidence that is needed to prosecute. There are multiple layers and all kinds of twists and turns for our lead that brings her own past into the present. Personally I think that The Stolen Hours should be slapped with a warning label that once beginning to read it’s impossible to put down.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit
https://carriesbookreviews.com/ -
4.5 strong female character stars
I really do like this author’s writing! It’s been a while since I’ve read one of his, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one. In his earlier books, Joe was the main character and this time we get to hear Lila’s side of the story.
She is a complex, easy-to-root-for character. She’s climbed out of despair over an awful time in high school. She’s put herself through law school, close to nabbing her dream job, just waiting for results of her bar exam, and she has a wonderful man in her life.
Oh, the plot thickens though. An old adversary that she’s bested in the past is determined to derail her career.
We also get the creepy perspective from Gavin, he’s clearly committed crimes, but he thinks he’s too clever for the police to ever catch him.
Lila is determined to put Gavin away, but why does he rattle her nerves so much? As Lila grapples with demons from her past, her career hangs in the balance.
I really enjoyed this powerhouse ending and I really enjoyed seeing Lila’s strong character shine through.
While this can easily be read as a stand-alone, now I do want to read the earlier books with Lila now.
This was a great buddy read with Susan and I thank my local library for the copy of this one to read! -
Author Allen Eskens has stolen my heart multiple times.
But not with THE STOLEN HOURS.
Yes, I was expecting more from this talented author.
Much, much more!
Lila Nash from the author's "THE HEAVENS MAY FALL" reappears as the main protagonist in "THE STOLEN HOURS".
While working as a Minneapolis prosecutor, Lila and her team are prosecuting local photographer Gavin Spenser for his alleged role in the attempted murder and sexual assault of a young woman.
Unbeknownst to her colleagues, Lila was a former rape victim and, therefore, her determination to put Gavin behind bars is personal and fierce.
Gavin, however, is extremely conniving and has done a masterful job of covering his tracks.
Will Lila and her team convict Gavin? Can they prove that Gavin is also guilty of additional assaults, rapes, and murders?
Although this book was fast-paced and well-written, it failed to meet my expectations for a well-plotted Allen Eskens novel.
First and foremost, I felt many aspects of the plotline seemed very contrived and too coincidental. To avoid spoilers, I will refrain from giving examples.
Also, I felt that the middle of the book featured waaaay too much Lila melodrama. Eskens' novels usually feature minimal melodrama with riveting suspense.
And, finally, I felt that too many negative remarks about the suspect's speech impediment were mentioned. Was the author shaming people with speech disabilities?
Yes, a speech impediment could be used as key evidence to identify a suspect. However, the author's negative comments about the suspect's speech impediment were excessive and this was both perplexing and troubling.
I listened to the audiobook and the three narrators did a superb job.
I almost always enjoy this talented author's books and I certainly will be looking forward to listening to future titles. -
Rating: 6 glorious stars
In my humble opinion, how an author crafts a story, characters and plot takes precedence, regardless of genre or anything else. That said, Allen Eskens shows his prowess including a 'clinic' on pacing, which is a skill in itself. He's also adept at mimicking the criminal mind which engages the reader further.
Working as a law clerk, Lila Nash awaits hearing from the Bar Association while doing menial tasks for Oscar Hernandez, a prosecutor for Hennepin County District Attorney's office. Unlike the other clerks, she's barred from court room appearances robbing her of valuable experience needed to prosecute criminals. Living with her boyfriend, Joe Talbert, who's well aware of her 'history' and trauma experiences, they do their best to live a balanced life, hard that it is.
A lisping criminal posing as a photographer, Gavin Spencer is hired to shoot a wedding where he encounters Sadie Vauk, a bridesmaids and stylist at a local salon. Like a spider awaiting prey, he shows up at the salon where Sadie works and waits until closing. When he sees she's alone he enters and begs her to cut his hair for an 'important meeting'. Before she knows it, he's slipped GHB, the 'date rape' drug, into her water and becomes his next target. Once he's 'disposed' of the victim, his meticulous clean up of his black Bronco, and all traces of emails, texts, and tech research are done with the skill of a pro.
Nikki Vang, a detective assigned to the suspicious drowning meets with Andi Fitch, the prosecutor Lila has been reassigned to as law clerk. Having been raped and drugged in high school and still suffering with spats of PTSD, Lila can't help but be curious since the crime bore similarity to her own. Lila's 'illuminating' meetings with Nikki cause her to research similar cases and in the process, she uncovers four women missing in other states. As evidence mounts, the path leads to Gavin Spencer while Sadie Vauk recuperates in the hospital. With such a pronounced speech impediment, he's easily identified during a police lineup and incarcerated awaiting trial.
Toggling back and forth between Lila's high school years and the present, her broken friendship with Sylvie leads to unknown details of the high school rape. She finds that Andi Fitch insists she does initial court appearances rather than push pencils which is a breath of fresh air. During one such appearance, her first glance of Gavin sends a chill up her spine, pushing her to dig deeper into his past.
As she works close with two detectives, the similarities between the Vauk murder and others congeal as does her suspicion Gavin is a serial murderer. Protected and financed by his dominating mother, the detectives conversations with Amy Spencer go nowhere.
For those of you who have read past reviews, you're aware that plot points and details are left out since it ruins the experience of a story.
Its my feeling this is Allen Esken's best work to date and as you near the end, you'll discover why. Eskens use of well developed characters, flash backs and plot twists coupled with meticulous pacing result in a masterpiece of crime, mystery and trauma. If you've yet to read books by this author, make sure to add THIS ONE to your list! -
#3 in this excellent series. It could do as a standalone, but don't cheat yourself of the other two books. Do yourself a favor and read them all.
Here Joe is not very present at all, and we get to see Lila as an up and coming prosecutor, still reeling from a rape and self mutilation. She's a wonderful character, as is Joe, both so smart and kind. Makes me understand that Allen Eskens must be the same. -
4.5 Stars
-
Allen Eskens always delivers a riveting, well thought out and engaging books!
The Stolen Hours wowed me and kept me on my toes. Joe Talbert takes a backseat to Lila Nash and readers get to know more about her and her backstory. Lilia has overcome a lot yet her past still looms over her. As she takes a case, she is struggling with a horrible boss and is going head-to-head with a heinous criminal.
Lila is tasked with proving what she knows to be true. How do you catch a killer who is intelligent and has everything planned out?
This was a fantastic addition to the Joe Talbert series but works as a stand-alone. He has crafted likeable main characters with flaws, which make them more realistic and relatable. He has also given us a character to root for in Lila. Eskens is such a gift writer and storyteller. It is always so rewarding to read one of his books. -
Oh my heavens… 5 stars is just a fraction of what this series and story deserves!
Start this amazing series with, “The Life We Bury” and sweat, follow and cheer some of the most memorable characters.
Outstanding! -
Allen Eskens can't type fast enough for me! He has done an outstanding job on this most recent release where Lila takes center stage. Unfortunately, Joe's appearance was only in passing (which I found very unfortunate), however Lila managed to hold center stage without his assistance, in this fast paced cat and mouse mystery.
When a woman manages to survive against all odds after kidnapping and attempted murder, Lila now working as a prosecutor for the county helps police determine who is responsible. As the puzzle shifts and refocuses, Lila realizes that she knows the potential defendant. Will she be able to provide the pieces necessary to find out what is going on?
I loved the pacing of this story, the suspense was well managed throughout as we understand what the connections are among the characters. Eskens writing is so intriguing that he doesn't resort to distractions or red herrings, he doesn't need to! I found myself wondering what would unravel next when I didn't have the book before me. I managed to read it in less than 2 days, a testimony to I stop at the end of this chapter mindset and instead staying up nearly all night! -
Allen Eskens is an author that captures your deepest emotions and reverence for his characters. This man knows how to weave a narrative that holds you captivated! The only reason it took me 4 days to finish this was due to that thing I do called work. 🥲 Otherwise, this would have been wrapped up in two days. This was my 4th of his and I will guarantee there will be many more!
Lila Nash has come along way. She wins a position working right in the prosecutors office in Hennepin county, Minnesota. Her boss is the official prosecutor, Andi. This is something she has dearly strived for. Her motivation has come a long way. Good for Lila!
Things get murky when a woman is pulled out of the Mississippi river and is surprisingly alive. However, she barely remembers what happened to her.
What isn’t a secret, is the person who is guilty of committing this crime. They already know who the number one suspect is, Gavin Spenser. The only thing is they have to prove it. Easy right? Nope. Gavin has been doing this for a few years and has a few tricks up his sleeve, leaving no evidence behind.
Lila being a fighter and all is much closer to the story, as we find out, she was a victim of rape eight years prior. The only thing is, she can’t pinpoint her assailant. However, she is determined to get some answers and heal from her trauma. Is this Gavin guy the one who brutally assaulted her and was he acting alone?
Let me tell you that it killed me to have to go work every day. I was dying to finish this, and it being dragged out for four days was pure torture. The suspense is so intense! We already know the guilty party so it’s not about the WHO…. But it becomes about the HOW are they going to get this guy?…
This is a gripping legal thriller with psychological suspense to boot. Eskens is a master of storytelling that shouldn’t be missed. I highly recommend picking up one of his books and find out for yourself!
TW - rape but not detailed at all
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 5 -
3.5 stars
A young attorney has her past storming toward her. Before she can even pass the bar, she is caught in a trial that stuns her and brings back her past. Have they caught a serial killer? How is this associated with her? With all these reoccurring memories how can she do her job? How can she live her life? Where does this leave her future?
I usually enjoy Allen Eskens books - as I did this one - but this is billed as a 'Joe Talbert book #3'. What? I will admit it has been a couple years since I read the two other books in this series, but the only connection I see between them and this book is that Joe Talbot is the boyfriend in this story. The boyfriend who is mentioned so briefly that he is inconsequential to the story. For me this book was a complete stand alone.
Even as a stand alone it was a good story. There was suspense, you heard the story from varying points of view and there were twists - twists that I did not see coming. Strong female protagonist, and relatable characters, and hopefully a new character in this female attorney that will continue forward in the Joe Talbot series. -
Out in Paperback edition today!
LOVED THIS BOOK! Master storyteller Allen Eskens returns following (2019)
NOTHING MORE DANGEROUS (View my
in-depth interview with Allen) — with yet another captivating superb thriller —
THE STOLEN HOURS. My favorite book of 2021!
Lila Nash, a favorite character from past books, takes center stage facing the evilest mastermind, as her past and present are connected in mysterious ways.
I am a massive fan of the author and never miss a book, and was delighted when I learned we would hear more from Lila Nash, journalist Joe's law student, and girlfriend.
Lila Nash was a supporting character in novels 1, 3, and 5. In number 7, she is the protagonist and takes center stage as the heroine in THE STOLEN HOURS. We fell in love with Lila in Esken's debut and subsequent books.
It all starts at a wedding with a wedding photographer named Gavin. After reading this book, not sure I would ever trust a photographer again. WOW! This guy is mental and pure evil. A psychotic sociopath.
The author has outdone himself in creating this evil monster. Never cross him. Gavin has a speech impediment and a big chip on his shoulder. He loves to keep trophies of his conquests and prides himself in being able to outsmart everyone. Count yourself dead if you come in contact with him. Drugging is his favorite trick before raping and throwing you off a bridge.
He does not know someone may finally outsmart him after all the years of skirting the law.
The author takes us back to Lila’s nightmare when she was 18 yrs old, and one she has never fully recovered from. Rape, a vicious attack, suicide attempt, cutting, plus PTSD, and much more. But she was given a date rape drug which wiped out her memory and almost destroyed her life.
She has since worked through college and law school and finally, a job as a prosecutor. She is living with her boyfriend (good guy), Joe (we met in previous books). He wants to get married but knows not to push and wait for her lead.
A case crosses Lila's desk regarding a woman, barely alive, pulled from the Mississippi River. Sadie Vauk. She is a hairdresser and encountered Gavin at the wedding. She escaped after being drugged and thrown into the river to drown.
The case holds echoes of what happened to Lila, and before long, the ghosts of her attack reemerge, threatening to destroy her. The detective also finds similar tactics in prior cases over the years and no one was ever convicted.
However, his other victims never come alive over the years, and no one has ever suspected Gavin because he covers his tracks. On top of this case and the stress, Lila is unsure but thinks she has seen this guy before. If she could only remember. Now, this gal is collateral damage, and Gavin is sure to come after her.
Lila is also experiencing problems with a nasty man, her new boss, and is in jeopardy of losing her job. Their relationship goes back to being on the opposing side years ago (past books). However, she gets transferred, and her mentor is kick-ass, tough, and truly unforgettable. He thinks this will deter her. She turns out to be a big fan of Lila. Loved the scenes with them together.
Meanwhile, Joe is on an assignment and called away.
We also catch up with detectives Nikki and Matty. Fans will remember Nikki from past books. She is also a strong supporter of Lila. So now we have 3 strong women against a misogynistic boss and a serial killer. Lila finds strength she is unaware she has and may be the thing to pull her out of her eight years of torture.
Now, let’s discuss this evil mastermind Eskens has created. BRILLIANT! Gavin is a true sociopath. OMG! He could give Caroline Kepnes’ character Joe a run for his money. Never get on his bad side and his mother, what a combo. You will be glued to the pages and holding your breath to the outstanding grand finale.
THE STOLEN HOURS is utterly riveting and never a lull or slow moment. It is fast-paced, keenly observed, and full of heart-pounding twists and surprises. My jaw dropped numerous times.
A flawless execution, powerhouse Allen Eskens' writing is extraordinary. Plot and character-driven, he is at the top of his game. Just when you think he could not get any better, he pulls out another winner! I could not put this one down.
You will root for Lila from the first page to the last. Fans of Eskens' previous books will devour. Perfect for fans of authors Lisa Gardner, Karin Slaughter, John Lescroart, and Michael Robotham fans. Movie-worthy or TV series, please!
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for an advanced reading copy. I also purchased the hardcover copy (which is stunning) and the audiobook narrated by MacLeod Andrews, Christine Lakin, and Tina Huang. Highly recommend!
I cannot wait to see what comes next!
My Reviews:
These are all Must-Reads! He is tops if you love legal, crime thrillers, and literary fiction! Each can be read as a standalone but why stop with one? You do not want to miss a thing. Read them all!
The Life We Bury
The Guise of Another
The Heavens May Fall
The Deep Dark Descending
The Shadows We Hide
Nothing More Dangerous
Interview with Allen and Nothing More Dangerous
The Forsaken Country (9/20) and look for my upcoming #AuthorElevatorSeries Interview with the author on pub day.
My Blog Review:
The Stolen Hours
@JudithDCollins
#JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: 09/07/2021
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Deserving of 10 stars! -
4.0 Stars
I consider Allen Esken to be one of the most talented authors writing today so it is no surprise that loved his latest mystery. Unlike so many authors in the genre, he never gets stuck in a mold or formula. Each novel is unique from his previous ones, offering a fresh perspective.
This novel features characters from his previous work but can certainly read like a standalone without any confusion. However, as a dedicated reader of Esken's work, I was delighted to see the return of some familiar characters. There was great character work in this one with emotional and challenging moments. Content warnings for sexual assault and self harm.
As for the story itself, it was engrossing and well plotted. Some of the twists were guessable but yet I still very much enjoyed the reading experience. I particularly enjoyed reading from "the bad guy's perspective".
I would definitely recommend this one (and this author) to any reader looking for an engaging mystery with smart characters.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. -
It’s Joe Talbot’s girlfriend Lila Nash who is at the center of this thriller. Closing in on her dream of becoming a prosecutor of violent crimes, she finds herself on the case of a victim who survives a rape and attempted murder. Before long the details bring back memories of an event in her past and she becomes evermore determined to bring the perpetrator to justice. This is Eskens back on form after the very disappointing ‘Nothing More Dangerous’. I was sucked in from the first few pages and remained gripped throughout. I really enjoyed it!
-
Gulp. Chapter One of
The Stolen Hours begins with Lila Nash counting her steps as she walks from the kitchen to the bathroom to apply vanishing cream to the scars that run in parallel lines on the top of her left arm. They are remnants of self-inflicted razor cuts following a brutal attack when she was in high school. Since I had just finished a book where the major character frequently cut himself, I wondered what I was getting myself into with this Allen Eskens’ novel.
I’m not a newcomer to Eskens. This book features Lila, who has appeared in two previous novels. Her boyfriend is Joe Talbert, another repeat character. In The Stolen Hours, Lila works as a prosecutor in the Hennepin County Attorney’s office in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The lines on her arm are not the only scars she bears. She constantly looks over her shoulder because those responsible for her rape were never caught and convicted. Additionally, photos were passed around school and her best friend rejected her. Despite seeing a therapist, she has never gotten over the emotional trauma, nor has she shared details of her ordeal with Joe.
When a young woman is drugged, sexually assaulted, dragged into the Mississippi River – and survives – Lila is assigned to her case. A man named Gavin Spencer is ultimately arrested. It’s no secret; we see his actions from the very beginning. This is a man with a chip on his shoulder the size of a California redwood tree. He’s clever, efficient, malicious, and wealthy. He has one trait that he can’t hide. Will it be his downfall?
Lila has a lot to juggle. She’s trying to keep her secret past from interfering with her job, but when her boss is injured in an accident, a man with an ax to grind takes over and makes life miserable for Lila, who fears her job is in jeopardy. As the case unfolds, new information about past murder cases comes to light. Could there be a link to Lila’s eight-year-old case as well?
While I liked
Nothing More Dangerous and
The Life We Bury a little more, I feel that The Stolen Hours is still a gem of a book. The female characters are fabulous. Andrea (Andi) Fitch is tough and has a reputation for being cold, but she proves to be just the right mentor for Lila. And Lila shows that she is as tough as nails – much tougher than she ever thought she could be. I also liked Detective Niki Vang, who is 100% supportive of the victims and goes the extra mile to help Lila find the evidence she needs to prove her case. Kudos to Mr. Eskens for writing on this important topic!
4 stars -
Lila Nash takes center stage in this third offering in Eskens’ Joe Talbert series. Lila works in the county prosecutor’s office awaiting the results from her bar exam. However, Lila has been dealing with inner demons resulting from a sexual attack she suffered eight years ago. She is assigned a case that pulls her further back into that nightmare. Sadie Vauk was drugged, raped and dumped into a river. Somehow she survived and was able to identify her attacker. Detective Niki Vang’s investigation links this crime to several previous cases where the victims did not survive.
The POV of Gavin Nash, the perpetrator, is totally creepy and I wished that Eskens would not have included so much of the man’s twisted mindset into the plot-line. Oh well. It makes the mountain that Lila climbs to overcome her demons all the more impressive. -
Wow! Allen Eskens again brings his A-game in his latest release that features Joe Talbert’s girlfriend, Lila Nash as the lead character. Yes, readers will be happy that Joe shows up, too. But not for long because he’s off chasing another story, leaving Lila as the driving force behind this nail-biter.
A highly charged read and solidly plotted, page-turning thriller. Lila is an amazing character – so much more to her than we’ve seen in previous books. Her life hasn’t always been filled with pleasantries. But she’s strong-willed and does her job as a new practicing attorney, endures her colleague’s hostility, and applies herself to her pile of tasks with painstaking precision. All while confronting a heartbreaking and haunting real-life nightmare that comes to life in the courtroom.
Another hard-hitting and powerful read with an ending that puts a smile on your face! Lila takes matters into her own hands with her eye on a happily-ever after with Joe Talbert. Hoping we see more from this duo soon!
Eskens has done an excellent job keeping the presentation tightly paced without feeling forced or contrived. The peril and tension fit well with the story and the circumstances that make this novel very easy to lose yourself in. STOLEN HOURS gets two thumbs-up from me with a 5-star recommendation. -
I could not stop reading this, even though I really needed to get to sleep. I think this may be my new favorite author, at least for now. I plan to read more of his books to see how they hold up, and I'm hoping for more in this series.
This one features Joe's girlfriend, Lila, with Joe only in the background. But her story was great, and very satisfying in the end. We learn a lot more about her "incident", as her mother liked to call it. We also get to see her grow emotionally and take charge of her life rather than running away from problems.
And we get a lesson on not judging a person by what others think about them. I think this also applies to organizations and companies. Some people just don't get along or don't handle problems, so they blame the other party. If you expect the worst from others, you'll probably get it. -
And we have a WINNER!
All around great crime thriller.
