Book #2 in the Abby Mullen series by one of my favorite authors, Mike Omer. This book could be read as a stand alone but there are threads connecting it to book #1 and threads that will arc into the next few books. Mike Omer is an excellent story builder so I'm positive you'd like book #1 in the series, A DEADLY INFLUENCE, as well increasing the "thriller" of DAMAGED INTENTIONS.
Lt Mullen is the best hostage negotiator NYPD has, plus an extensive history with cults and their psycology. When a cult, The Watchers, attacks a high school and takes the students hostage, Abby's daughter is one of the hostages. The tension builds quickly as we see the police build an offensive as the emotions ratchet up. Omer is one of the best at building a story line that will pull your attention away from everything else to see what happens next. I recommend the book to everyone who loves thrillers. You'll soon join Omer's fan club.

"Damaged Intentions" by Mike Omer is a riveting addition to the landscape of psychological thrillers, seamlessly blending intense character study with a meticulously plotted narrative. Omer, known for his ability to weave intricate tales of suspense and intrigue, does not disappoint with his latest offering. The novel is a testament to Omer's mastery of the genre, providing readers with a compelling examination of the darker facets of human nature.

The plot of "Damaged Intentions" is tightly wound and expertly paced, leading readers through a labyrinth of twists and turns that challenge perceptions and expectations. Omer crafts a story that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The narrative explores the consequences of past actions, the complexities of guilt, and the quest for redemption, themes that are recurrent in Omer's work and are explored here with new depth and insight.

Characters in "Damaged Intentions" are richly drawn and complex, each carrying their own secrets and scars. Omer excels in creating protagonists who are flawed yet fundamentally relatable, making their journeys all the more compelling. The interactions and dynamics between characters are nuanced and realistic, adding layers of depth to the narrative. Omer's ability to get into the minds of his characters, including the antagonist, showcases his skill in exploring psychological motifs, making the novel a fascinating study of motive and morality.

Omer's writing style is precise and evocative, with an ability to create an atmosphere that is both foreboding and immersive. The settings and scenes are vividly described, transporting readers to the heart of the story's unfolding drama. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, driving the plot forward while revealing key insights into the characters' personalities and pasts.

In "Damaged Intentions," Mike Omer also touches upon societal issues, weaving them into the fabric of the plot in a way that is thought-provoking without being didactic. The novel prompts readers to ponder the broader implications of the story's events, making it not just a thrilling read but also a conversation starter.

In conclusion, "Damaged Intentions" is a standout thriller that confirms Mike Omer's place among the top writers in the genre. It is a meticulously crafted novel that manages to be both an enthralling psychological thriller and a profound exploration of the human condition. Fans of Mike Omer's previous works and newcomers alike will find "Damaged Intentions" to be a deeply satisfying read that lingers long after the final page is turned.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an advanced copy to review for my honest opinion.

Due to a sudden, unexpected passing in the family a few years ago and another more recently and my subsequent (mental) health issues stemming from that, I was unable to download this book in time to review it before it was archived as I did not visit this site for several years after the bereavements. This meant I didn't read or venture onto netgalley for years as not only did it remind me of that person as they shared my passion for reading, but I also struggled to maintain interest in anything due to overwhelming depression. I was therefore unable to download this title in time and so I couldn't give a review as it wasn't successfully acquired before it was archived. The second issue that has happened with some of my other books is that I had them downloaded to one particular device and said device is now defunct, so I have no access to those books anymore, sadly.

This means I can't leave an accurate reflection of my feelings towards the book as I am unable to read it now and so I am leaving a message of explanation instead. I am now back to reading and reviewing full time as once considerable time had passed I have found that books have been helping me significantly in terms of my mindset and mental health - this was after having no interest in anything for quite a number of years after the passings. Anything requested and approved will be read and a review written and posted to Amazon (where I am a Hall of Famer & Top Reviewer), Goodreads (where I have several thousand friends and the same amount who follow my reviews) and Waterstones (or Barnes & Noble if the publisher is American based). Thank you for the opportunity and apologies for the inconvenience

This is the second book of the series and can be read as a stand-alone. This book continues from the first one, and the reader gets to know Abby a little better. The book was well written and I hope there is a third one in the series.

Damaged Intentions, the second book in the Abby Mullen Thriller series by Mike Omer, is a must-read for any fan of suspenseful, fast-paced thrillers. The book follows FBI agent Abby Mullen as she investigates a series of murders that seem to be connected to her past, and the secrets she has kept hidden for years.

One of the most impressive things about Damaged Intentions is Omer's ability to create a truly immersive and engaging world. From the opening pages, readers are immediately drawn into the story, and the tension only grows as the plot unfolds. Omer's writing is both confident and skillful, and his ability to craft complex characters and intricate plotlines is truly impressive.

Abby Mullen is a fantastic protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her throughout the book. She is strong, determined, and fiercely independent, yet vulnerable and deeply human. The supporting cast of characters is equally well-drawn, and each one adds depth and richness to the story.

As the book title indicates, the story goes on to show how intentions, however noble and good, may not always be sufficient in themselves if the actions and pursuits are misplaced. The cat and mouse game between the Watchers and The Circle in the book is gripping to read, and shows us the potential perils of conspiracy theories. This was a brilliant story, and I am thankful to Omer, and the publishers Thomas & Mercer, for gifting me with a copy of this book.

Abby Mullen is a NYPD hostage negotiator. She’s also the mother of a teen daughter. Abby’s work and personal lives collide when a group of conspiracy theorists attack the high school, and Abby’s daughter is a hostage.

Damaged Intentions is the second book in the Abby Mullen thriller series. Abby has a dark past. She escaped a cult when she was younger, and she’s trying to keep that part of her life in the past. With Abby’s job, her daughter, and her past, a lot is happening in this novel, and it makes for a suspenseful story.

Damaged Intentions is a gripping read with complex characters. Recommended for fans of crime thrillers.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I'm obsessed with this author and this series!!! This is the second in the series and may be better than the first book. On to the next!

Thank you Netgalley for my copy of this book. My review is voluntary and my own.

I started this book months ago but put it aside. I don’t know why because it’s a captivating fast-paced police procedural which is a sub-genre I generally enjoy. It’s an intriguing premise where a young girl breaks free from a cult. Now as an adult, Abby Mullen is a hostage negotiator. Her latest case brings back terrifying memories of her time as a child with a current hostage situation at a local high school. She is pulled in many directions as negotiator and also as a parent of one of the students being held hostage. I didn’t realize this was part of a series when I chose to read this book but I didn’t feel I was missing anything by reading it as a standalone.

I didn't realize this was book 2 until after I started reading, but I didn't feel confused or anything like that, but I definitely want to go back and read book 1 in the series. Omer created some great characters, and the intensity of the story was felt from the very beginning.

A gripping read. The reader is hooked and is taken along for a thrilling ride. The entire conspiracy theory/cult phenomenon is a thing that most readers have come across in their lives. This makes it an all too plausible plot.
This book did not disappoint. Its characters, plot and writing make it worth the read.

I love love Mike Omer! I think he is so under rated. I loved the first book in Abbey Mullen series, which gave me insight to so much about the cults. The second one however, not as punchy as the first one, I liked it enough.

Its about a group of people who unintentionally high jacks a school and Abby is out to negotiate with them. With her daughter Sam, stuck in the school Abby faces so much emotional dilemma throughout the investigation.

Overall, this was a gripping story with complex characters that kept me on tenterhooks. It’s intense and kept me turning the pages. There was enough background in this novel that it worked well as a standalone, but I have book one and can’t wait to read it while waiting on the next one in the series. Those who enjoy police procedurals and crime thrillers may want to check out this series.

I wish more people would read this author. I recommend both Abbey Mullen and Zoey Bentley thrillers. Can't wait for the next one,

Damaged intentions is a great thriller. Abby is a hostage negotiator who escaped a cult when she was younger. now working for the NYPD she is terrified when she realises conspiracy theorist group the watchers have taken over the high school at gunpoint, what's worse is one of the students is her daughter. She has to navigate whether or not she is able to safely negotiate the situation safely.

Abby is our protagonist and the book is mainly told from her POV. I was able to understand her character as it was extremely well developed. We get to have a great understanding of her past as well as her personality. I felt able to engage well and quickly with her character. She is also a badass and I love a good female lead, Abby is a great one.

The writing is well developed and builds just the correct amount of tension and suspense that kept me wanting to read more. First time I've read a book by Mike Omer but it won't be the last, he is a talented writer. The opening chapter was so intense I couldn't put the book down from then on, talk about a detailed emotive opening. Gun's in high schools are all too real and I also believe this is why the book keeps you hooked, you want a happy ending. there are so many complex layers to the story and it is important you take it all in!!!

All in all I would totally recommend this book. it's intense full of suspense with great description that make you feel like you are there. Honestly Abby is one of my favourite leads in a while and her character makes this book such a great read. i rate it 3 stars.

thanks to netgalley, Mike Omer and the publishers for the digital reviewers copy of Damaged Intentions

I absolutely love Mike Omer and will read anything he writes! Abby was born into a cult and has lived with guilt her entire life over something she was forced to do by an authority figure. The kind of guilt that no one would ever want to live with, especially since she was eight (I think) years old...super young and had no voice to tell her abuser/cult leader no. When I first read about the Watchers, a group of young conspiracy theorists, I wasn't too sure. Abby has a daughter named Samantha/Sam and when the Watchers go into her school to do some collateral damage, they take Sam hostage. Abby was on the job and I couldn't even imagine having to be the hostage negotiator and the person held against their will is your own daughter. That part played out well by the author. There were definitely some great twists and turns, something I assume most (if not all) mystery/thriller readers love as long as they're believable. I cannot wait to read book #3!

I would like to thank NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for an e-ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion which I have given.




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At first it was difficult to immerse myself into the story it begins in the mind of an unraveling fanatic that is living in his alternative reality and deeply imbedded in his conspiracy theory. This soon becomes intensely fascinating as we see how this moment comes to fruition.This book had me on the edge of my seat biting my nails, the twist and turns had me reeling in surprise. The suspense was intense and I wasn’t sure of who would survive in the end or what would happen as several plot threads weave together in a deeply disturbing and unexpected way. Absolutely fantastic writing as always and I highly recommend the series!

"These are statistics that you can easily find online if you know where to look. You don’t have to take my word for it. In fact, you shouldn’t. Do your own research. Dig it up."

3.5 rounded up. This was very compelling. It has a lot of the buzz words of today. Conspiracy theories, cabal, secret pedophile rings, and a school shooting. It was easy to see how this could all play out, easy to see how it could go so so wrong. It was hard to read about the innerworkings of this group of conspiracy theorists and to hear them chant over and over to "do your own research" and how they would just run circles of self-fulfilling prophecies. But their circles and their chants and their mania felt very real and was a perfect tension on the page.

I enjoyed the twists and turns that kept my head spinning. I liked getting to know Samantha/Sam, Abby's daughter more. Getting to know Abby's history a bit more was reasuring as well and I'm hopign we get more details and some conclusions in the next installment. I look forward to reading it!

A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.

An interesting read, not an absolute favorite, was not an “I can’t put this down” but drawn in enough to finish. I typically enjoy all from this underrated author, so will probably reread this one later and have an even more impressed opinion. Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for this ARC opportunity!

A good story has to be as believable as it is unbelievable, especially when you are reaching for a thriller, and Mr. Omer’s Damaged Intentions fits that requirement very well. This is the second installment in the Abby Mullen Thrillers series written by Mike Omer, and yes once again I requested this advanced reader copy without realizing that it was a series. It is frustrating when I do that, but also provides a great opportunity for me to talk to the importance or unimportance of reading the series in order. You know making lemonade out of lemons and all that. The story itself felt very fresh and relevant as it includes school shootings, conspiracy theory groups, the power of the internet/social media, and just to add a little more spice to the mix, the major character Abby Mullen, our hostage negotiator, was once a member of a cult.

The pacing of this thriller is spot on, you switch from both the protagonist and antagonist point of views as the story evolves and Mr. Omer does this very effectively. This method is very useful in keeping the reader engaged and moving through the story. However, there are so many aspects of this story it could become rather exhausting more than exhilarating.

The book starts out focused on Abby and is referencing her background with a cult while still a child, you know one of those cults that goes literally up in flames. It allows us to learn about her past and become familiar with where she is in her personal life. So for those of us who pick up the second book before the first, it is helpful and will tie-in with this story. I did feel that the tie was a little loose and a little harder to believe than the rest of the story. However, the use of social media platforms made these coincidences/tie-ins work for me, in fact really unnerved me from time to time. Mr. Omer’s overall plot, pacing and character development makes this a very intriguing series, one that I will be adding to my TBR.

This book had me on the edge of my seat biting my nails from start to finish . The suspense was really intense and I wasn’t sure of who would survive in the end. The story isn’t slowing down from the first sentence to the last showdown. Highly recommended!

This book will give you whiplash.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.