This was a brilliant read. As soon as I started reading this book I just knew I was going to love it. Highly recommended

This is my kind of book, brutal gangland style, very much like Kimberly chambers and Casey Kellher

It’s written around the travelling community which is a bit different from the normal gangland type book

Great storyline with lots of issues raised. Ie domestic abuse and dealing with the after affects.

It’s a hard read and very brutal so not for the faint hearted

I don’t think I have read a book that is based around the traveller community, I think there should definitely be more focused on them, hopefully not all as brutal as this one starts out. Men thinking they own their partners is not a good thing in my eyes. Kat needs to get out of this situation, she wants to but how can she leave when women are not allowed to leave the site?
This book gives detail of the time she was in the traveller site and then a year later. This is a harrowing book, full of emotion but equally a very good one, it was written very well and the author did a great job at highlighting domestic abuse and dealing with the aftermath of it.

A fantastic and very exciting read. No Looking Back by Alex Kane highlights some extremely hard-hitting issues such as domestic abuse, control and manipulation, but within the gritty story, there’s also an undercurrent of mystery which made this book such a thrilling read.

The author has created some fabulous characters in this novel, particularly Kat who was portrayed very realistically. I’ve never experienced what Kat went through but the emotions I felt whilst reading what happened to her both before and after her escape, felt absolute. Alex Kane dealt with the difficult subject of domestic abuse with great sensitivity and understanding.

No Looking Back was a story of rawness and brutality but it was also one full of hope. It totally captured my imagination whilst I rooted for Kat to find the answers she needed and the happiness she deserved. If you love gritty crime/domestic thrillers, then I would certainly recommend this book.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Hera Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.

No Looking Back – Alex Kane

This reminds me a lot of early Kimberley Chambers and Mandasue Heller novels. I was a little disappointed with this for two reasons one because I’d got two chapters in to realise that I had read it before. The other is a personal choice but I kind of like the local dialect/vernacular to be written as it is said, it helps the accent sound clearer in my head as I’m reading.

It’s a story of power and vulnerability, misogyny and fear with a more than healthy dose of domestic violence and rape. Told to us in two different time frames and points of view.

There were times in this book were the only characters I liked were the drunken sister in law who had demons of her own and an innocent baby. I do know that her situation was horrific and I can’t say that I would be any stronger in her place. I found the main male character to be a complete out and out so and so and as I was reading I just had my fingers crossed for a happy ending. I’m a bit of a sucker that way

Read for an honest review. Thank you Netgalley and Hera Books

I've been wanting to read this book for so long. I first won a copy of Chasing the Traveller, which this book was first called. I didn't get around to reading it for one thing or another always got in the way. Deciding I needed to read some of the books I wanted to read and not just books I needed to review, I dived into this one while passing away time as my little girl was in theatre. I knew the beginning of it quite well as I seemed to have started it not taken anything in then started again, repeat.
I decided to wait until we got home and I could sit back and actually get started with out interuptions.

Once I started there was no stopping me, Although the subject matter isn't a nice one, I found this such an easy book to read. I wasn't trying to take in eleventy billion characters and figure out who was who. We follow the story, the life of Kat Denton. A lady who is in a very abusive and controlling marriage. This story follows Kat on a massive journey. I really had strong emotions through this book and really did feel for Kat. When she finally escaped the marriage we see Kat returning to how things all started, learning of her life before meeting Jimmy and then how things changed once she met him. Her life could only get better but how she does this is up to her.
This book really shows what can happen when in a controlling, abusive relationship. How things are portrayed as 'normal'. how a person can start to believe that they are at fault for everything they do wrong, and even everything they do right. The author has done brilliantly bringing this subject out, and showing that we never know what goes on behind closed doors, as they say.
Brilliantly written and a fantastic yet easy read.
​

What a read. Wow. I'm still reeling from it. I think its a scary way to live. Constant looking over your shoulder for someone to find you. Or not find you.
This was really a very gripping read, and I loved it from beginning to end.
This was written by Emma Clapperton, who uses Alex Kane as another pen name.
Highly recommended.

5☆ Unputdownable, Gritty, Thrilling, Domestic Thriller!

Kat fell head over heels in love with traveller Jimmy, they was Teenage sweethearts.
Everyone warned her not to get involved with him and his family, they had a reputation, they was bad news!

Kat's parents passed away in a tragic fire.
She had no other traveller family only Jimmy. So his family and Jimmy took her under their wing.
They were soon married, but what followed next was 16years of abuse, mental abuse and torture as Jimmy turned into a vile, drunken wife beater, just like his father!

But now Kat is pregnant with Jimmy's baby.
Determined to keep her unborn child safe and a secret, away from him, she knows she has to escape her traveller family.
But she's not going alone. Jimmy's sister Ellie is going with her. Helping her to escape.
After all she has dark secrets at the hands of Jimmy too.

Kat is also determined to discover more about her parents, as she embarks on a journey to find out who Oscar is? And how does he know her parents?

Can Kat ever truly escape Jimmy?
Or will she be forever looking over her shoulder in fear?

From the opening Prologue I was gripped, it created a Taut, dark, claustrophobic atmospheric scene of just what Kat was facing at the hands of Jimmy and his thug sidekick Rab. As you delve deeper into the pages Kat's story is told and why she is so desperate to escape!

Learning about the Travellers was really intriguing and it certainly made the story even more enthralling.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this gripping book, it was thrilling, gritty, Unputdownable, at times nail biting domestic thriller with a hint of mystery and suspense.

There are some sensitive subjects such as domestic abuse and violence, fear, grief and references to rape, which some readers may find difficult to read. However they are handled with much sensitivity, but still make a relevant impact on the story.

No Looking Back is a Dark, Twisting, Pacy read that kept me on the edge of my seat, praying that Kat, baby Lucia and Ellie are safe. I could literally feel their anxiety and fear, i was completely drawn in.
It's a story of survival, secrets, danger, new identities, new beginnings, discoveries, family, relationships.
The Characters are really well written, believable and get under your skin.

No Looking Back is definitely going on my favourites list, it was a Compulsive, Gritty, Unputdownable Domestic Thriller!
Which I highly recommend!
Alex Kane is going on my Authors to watch out for list!
I'm excited to see what she writes next!

Thank you to The Bright Side Publicity & Promo for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

This book isn’t an easy read, mainly due to the fact it has quite a lot of violence within its pages. That being said, the whole storyline is very well done and it drew me in immediately.

Kat Denton has had a tragic life so far, and it doesn’t get any easier when she finds herself pregnant by someone she can no longer see a future with. In a moment of clarity she makes a bid for freedom which leads her to find out where she came from. In turn she meets family she didn’t know existed and who help her to move forward with her life.

Unfortunately circumstances dictate Kat doesn’t remain happy for very long and she is soon dragged back into her old life with devastating consequences.

Although this is, at times, not an easy read it is is one which I enjoyed. The author describes perfectly the lifestyle of travellers and takes the reader inside their lives.

Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.

Kat believes she is alone in her world, no family of her own, taken in by the Dentons and married to Jimmy. He beats her, doesn’t matter the reason but he batters her for any reason. But that day finally comes where she finds the one person to help her break the cycle and get out.

I really felt for Kat, desperate to escape the daily punishments for frequently nothing in her control. I admire her balls for getting out. What I read after her escape was a journey of self discovery. Kat had to learn how to live her own life, one without fear, one where she can be herself and learn to be a mum. I loved getting to knew “new” Kat, watching this young woman spreading her wings in her new life.

I personally think Alex Kane has portrayed the emotional spectrum of a woman in Kat’s situation. I’ve never experienced what Kat went through with Jimmy but the emotions I felt reading what happened to her both before and after her escape, felt real. The constant fear of running into him or one of his cronies.

Alex Kane has written a fabulous thriller packed with tension and emotion. The characters are so lifelike, picturing the story unfold was so easy. If you like a tense thriller with strong characters, you can’t go wrong with No Looking Back.

What a sensational book! I was pulled into this turbulent story from the outset and found that I couldn't put it down. The writing was compelling with a hypnotic rhythm that had me reading with such frenzy to find out what happened. I absolutely loved it.

Kat's story was a horrific battle that didn't seem as though it could ever end. I read with baited breath at the trials and tribulations she faced at the hand of her abuser. Her bravery to withstand such an ordeal was both courageous and inspirational and I championed her on every step of the way to find peace and safety.

The character creations in this story were exceptional.... I don't think I've detested a pair of characters with such passion before which says it all about Alex Kane's ability as a writer. The monstrous behaviour was shockingly disturbing and delivered many uneasy moments throughout the reading journey of this narrative. The writing showed a keen sense of psychological awareness for the situation that Kat was in which in turn delivered a terrifyingly real story.

No Looking Back is a raw and gritty journey of survival that will leave you shocked to the core. It is unapologetically honest at the horrors faced from a lifetime of abuse and I know this story will stay with me for years to come.

Whoop! Whoop! I am so happy to be taking part in shouting out about this amazing book. I had the pleasure of beta reading the original novel, Chasing the Traveller and to read it now that it has been picked up by Hera Books – OMFG – soooo good!
The story begins on a traveller’s site in Scotland and jumps between this and Glasgow/surrounding areas throughout. The reader is faced with some hard-hitting and emotional themes such as betrayal; loss; survival; protecting those you love; hope; discovery; trust; domestic abuse; relationships; recovery; power & control; manipulation and new beginnings.
Wow! Talk about grabbing your reader by the throat with a prologue that has you holding your breath whilst fighting back the anger and tears! The writing is edgy, focused and full of suspense and the build up is gradually placed before us to the point where we are almost invited to join Kat on her journey of discovery and survival. Told in third person POV you get a rounded look at all the action and various perspectives of the characters as well as insight into the travelling community. I also loved the letters we come across when Kat finds someone from her past -it delivers pieces of Kat’s backstory/ family history until all is revealed!
This story is littered with some interesting characters, but I will only touch upon a few so as not to spoil anything for other readers. The main character, Kat has suffered years of horrendous domestic abuse on all levels imaginable. Something finally snaps (no spoilers) and she realises she cannot stay in her marriage any longer. She is vulnerable, constantly looking over her shoulder but has a feisty and fierce determination to survive.
Jimmy Denton – Kat’s husband …what a bloody arsehole! There is absolutely nothing likeable about this guy! NOTHING! He is the epitome of a domestic abuser: full of charm initially, a master manipulator but evil to the core underneath it all. He objectifies Kat, believing he owns her and puts her through physical, emotional and every other level of abuse imaginable. Would I like to have seen him get his comeuppance? Absofrigginlutely! Would I like to have delivered a few blows myself? Damn right, I would! Does this happen – not me beating the crap out of him, of course – I totally believe in karma 😉 You’ll have to read the book to find out!
Ellie was another interesting character. Kat finds an ally in Ellie (Jimmy’s sister) but I initially was wary of her. What we learn is that despite her mean, hard exterior, Ellie is also a vulnerable and misread/misunderstood young lady full of her own demons and fears. I loved everything about her, once the layers were peeled back and we saw her for who she really was! Superbly written and really shows the depth and breadth of how domestic abuse can be generational and impacts those outside of the immediate abuse.
Seb was another character I enjoyed. A counsellor who helps Kat piece her past together and draw strength from within. He allows Kat to do all the work as he understands and empathises with her.
There are so many more characters I could go on about, (like a fellow she meets in Glasgow – lips sealed) but you really do need to discover them for yourself as each delivers a different feel to the story as it unfolds.
Would I recommend this book? OMFG! Absolutely I would! There are twists, suspense and a very emotive but riveting storyline to keep you hooked and turning the pages! Once you start your journey with Kat, you will not want to stop! A massive *well done* Alex Kane – I am certainly keeping my eye out for what you have in store for us readers next!

The start of the book already sent chills down my spine. How is it possible to behave in such a way? But I have to say the author had my attention at top level straight away.
This story is dripping with emotions. My heart broke several times, but the author added enough heartwarming moments to mend it a bit every time. I cannot start to imagine what Kat has been through and how hard it must be to start to heal. And indeed, I think there is only one way out, one way that allows you be able to sleep again at night.
The book is a testimony of strong women. Even the hardest times can be conquered, but you need people to stand by you. Even the worst nightmare can turn into a dream.
My heart totally goes out to people being in this situation. Unfortunately this brilliant work of fiction is real life for some. I really hope one day, they will find the strength to fight their demons and create a future for themselves.
I was dragged into Kat’s life from the very beginning of the book and I laughed and cried with her. I loved this book and the writing style and the author has gained a fan. 5 stars.
Thank you, Alex Kane and Book On The Bright Side Publicity & Promo.

No Looking Back by Alex Kane will grip you from the very first page, it will have you wanting to know what will happen next, before you have even turned the page.

This is Alex's debut book and she is one author that I will be keeping my eye out for future books.

Kat has suffered domestic violence for many years at the hands of her husband, Jimmy….even kept locked in the belly box as punishment for an unknown slight.

Kat is part of the travelling community but as her parents died when she was younger, all she had left was Jimmy and his family…she did love him……once.

As soon as the wedding was over he changed and the physical abuse began…

Finding herself pregnant, Kat realises she just can’t bring a baby into the world with Jimmy, so she gets help to leave the community, a huge risk to her self and Helen her sister in law.

After running away and setting up a new home she never feels completely safe…..so she decides to find out more about her parents by trying to find anyone who knew them, all she has is an address on an old photo….this ends up putting her in danger again……

This is a domestic thriller, the clever writing by Alex Kane really builds the tension and the characters are so well written I really really dislike Jimmy! And I learned a lot about the travelling community. It also deals with the emotive subject of domestic abuse and the impact this has. Not an easy read but a masterpiece of emotion.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and author for the opportunity read this and for a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest and unbiased review.

No Looking Back by Alex Kane

Sometimes you have to make a change...even if you are afraid
Kat Denton NEEDS to make a change.
BUT...She is afraid...and rightly so.
Her sister-in-law, Helen, gives her the strength and support to run...and run she does...and though she tries not to look back...her past is always there with her...and she is afraid.

This is not an easy book to read. Kat is a battered, abused wife who has “taken it” for over a decade and she is miserable. She has tried to get away in the past but seems to have given up when another opportunity to flee is presented by Helen. She has never felt she belongs with The Travelers but is not sure why. The young love she had for Jimmy has morphed into something completely different. This book tells of the hardship of the Denton women and also tells of what it takes to get away from abuse, how to go about it and how much good those who help in shelters provide. Moving on with one’s life is not easy. Baggage from the past seems to come along for the ride in the form of PTSD, nightmares, day-mares and fear.

This is Kat’s story and the life she lives from the age of 14 till her mid-thirties. It has ups and downs, love and loss, mysteries to uncover related to her parents and...so much more.

Was this book interesting? Yes
Was it easy to read? The writing was clear and concise but some cenes were difficult to read
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Are there triggers? Yes – for some readers: rape, physical and mental abuse
Do I recommend this book? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley, Hera Books and Books on the Bright Side for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

This story was previously published under the title of Chasing The Traveller.

I need to start with the beginning of this book as it does draw the reader in but it is dark, twisted and contains heavy domestic violence and a scene of what I would describe as rape which is not to some readers tastes due to personal circumstances. So just a little warning.

I felt so sorry for Kat from the beginning noone should have to go through what she has been through, especially with noone to turn to. I was beside her the whole way. She is a strong, determined character even if at times she doesn’t seem it.

A brilliantly written story, fast paced and a page turner of a read. Hard to put down. Would have loved to devour this in one go. A well deserved four stars from me. Highly recommend. Gripping, thrilling and heart pumping.

Brilliant! Book with lots of OMG shouted out aloud throughout,
Blimey what a fantastic book "No Looking Back" by Alex Kane was. I've never read any of his books before But Wow this was a cracking read and Loved every minute of it. It had me gripped from the very first page, its gripping, fast pace that will have you sitting on the end of your seat!

Kat is married to Jimmy Denton, they lived in a travellers camp. She fell in love with Jimmy and his charms when she was a teenager. Her beloved parents who were also travellers warned her about Jimmy but she was so in love with him she ignored their advise. Sadly her parents died in a fire and shortly after their deaths Kat who was now an orphan married Jimmy. Life was sweet for a short time and then her life became a living hell. Jimmy became very violent and abusive towards her. Kat could not go shopping etc, she had to wear the clothes he chose her to wear daily. Kat was living on fear from day to day.
After sixteen years of being married to Jimmy she finds out she is pregnant and doesn't want their child to living in this run down trailer and to have this nightmare life she is having!
Jimmys sister gives her a way out and they both flee from the travellers camp. They take no clothes etc with them.
The only thing Kat takes is an old photo of her mum and dad and on the back of this photo is a name and an address.

Kat does not know this person.......

Who is this person?

Is he related to Kat and how?

Will this person help her to be free from this dreadful life?

Are they still alive?

Kat, her baby girl Lucia and her sister in law start to build a new and better life. They both have new identities and things are looking okay for them.
But, they're still looking over their shoulders..........as Jimmy will never stop looking for her!

Kat finds out about her parents past and uncovers some dark secrets about them.

Is she strong enough to uncover the truth about the deaths of her parents?

Was the fire an accident or was it arson? That lead to their deaths?

Will Jimmy find her and his sister?

Will Kat face her demons of her past?

Will she and her daughter ever be safe?

Will she ever find happiness and trust someone ever again?

WoW..........I highly recommend this book. It was a cracking read throughout. I read it in one day!

Big Thank you to Hera Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

This book was fantastic, keeping you on the edge of your seat routing for Kat and Helen in their escape. You feel their emotions, their fear and it takes you on a journey willing them to seek happiness. Five star, highly recommended!

This was a great read.
Kat has suffered for many years at the hands of her husband, Jimmy, but reaches the point where she can’t take it any more.
Kat is part of the travelling community but is used by Jimmy as his very own punch bag.
Her parents died when she was younger and all she had left was Jimmy and his family and at the time, she was in love with him.
As soon as they were married he changed and became physically abusive towards her.
Kat discovers she’s pregnant and can’t bear to think of bringing a child into the world with Jimmy in it, so her sister in law helps her leave.
Kat and Helen get help and are soon settled in their own home with baby Lucia.
They don’t feel completely safe as they lived so long in fear of their lives so Kat gets some therapy to help her cope.
The only thing Kat took with her when she left was a photo of her parents. There’s an address on the back with the name Oscar, so she goes in search of someone who knew her parents.
What Kat finds is a surprise to her and leads to a dangerous confrontation.
This is an addictive read and I really felt for Kat.
Thanks to Hera Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.