The Girl At The Bar
by Nicholas Nash
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date Feb 01 2017 | Archive Date May 14 2019
Fireflies Publishing, LLC | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
Description
Her sudden disappearance in the midst of a high-stakes quest to cure cancer between two rival billionaires sets into motion an inexplicable chain of events as the bodies start to pile up.
No one knows why she disappeared. The race to find answers ensnares everyone around her, one of whom is a deeply disturbed psychopath lurking in the shadows.
Is Rebecca still alive? What happened to her? Who did it? And why? Questions about her vex everyone looking for answers. No one can be trusted and no one is above suspicion…
A Note From the Publisher
US Price: eBook: $9.99; Paperback: $16;
Advance Praise
FOREWORD CLARION REVIEWS, 4 STARS
This is a refreshing thriller, with a compassionate protagonist and a complex set of crimes to solve.
Prepare for a roller-coaster ride of a thriller: Nicholas Nash’s The Girl at the Bar mixes a beautiful woman, an unemployed Wall Streeter, cancer research, and long-buried secrets together in a novel that zooms along at just the right speed.
Ragnar Johnson is fired from his Wall Street firm over his part in a quick money-making plan and stops into his favorite bar for some liquid consolation. There, he meets the intelligent and beautiful Rebecca; they strike up a conversation, talk for hours, and she goes home with him. When he wakes up the next morning with memories of a wonderful evening, Rebecca’s gone, leaving only her bra behind. He’s not exactly sure how to take the gesture, but hope flickers in him nonetheless.
Soon after, the NYPD sends detectives to his apartment to ask about his evening guest. Rebecca’s been reported missing, Ragnar seems to be the last person to have seen her before she disappeared, and he’s now a suspect. Rebecca left a deep impression on him, and he starts his own investigation. The more he learns about her, the more he’s driven to find her, and his intelligence and career knowledge in analysis give him the tools to do so.
The Girl at the Bar is a near-future thriller, featuring advancements from current technology in areas of cancer research and computer programming. Excitement and detail run high.
Characters are adeptly constructed; none do anything beyond their established behaviors, and backstories, movements, and thoughts are all well plotted. Distinguishing features—as with Ragnar, who has difficulties with speaking—help to differentiate characters from one another. The variety and number of characters in The Girl at the Bar are well balanced, offering a wide range of personalities without resorting to stereotypes as well as providing multiple information sources for solving the crimes in the story.
Some character traits stretch credulity, as with Ragnar’s mental health diagnosis, which would likely have made his Wall Street work much more difficult. Ragnar’s compassion and willingness to help others compel him to action very effectively.
This is a thriller that reveals its progressions consistently and at all the right times, maintaining the guessing game until the very end. The structure is tight without being spare, and the story moves through time well. Flashbacks are judiciously used, and the final scene revealing the key element gives an elegantly simple resolution with the revelation of one name.
The Girl at the Bar is a refreshing change from the glut of military and political thrillers more often seen in the genre. Atypical characters, a convoluted set of crimes, and its main character’s compassion set it apart in a very positive way.
THE US BOOK OF REVIEWS, 5 STARS
"You always have a choice."
A whirlwind one-night stand turns into a bizarre nightmare for Ragnar Johnson after meeting cancer researcher Rebecca Chase at a local New York City bar. Her mysterious disappearance the following morning initiates a multitude of search parties, including Ragnar's personal investigation. Unfortunately, the police keep interrupting Ragnar's quest to find Rebecca since they earmark him as a possible suspect for a couple of different reasons. Besides the fact that he was the last person seen with Rebecca, Ragnar has a bit of a shady past as well as mental issues. Regardless of the police situation, Ragnar discovers a prominent clue that may uncover Rebecca's whereabouts. What he doesn't know is that there is more to Rebecca's disappearance than he expects, especially when grisly murders begin to surface.
Nash makes Clue seriously look like a kid's game in his page-turning debut. Producing a nail-biting psychological thriller, Nash includes a highly developed and tightly knit cast that will keep readers in a tizzy as they try to figure out "who did what in which room and with what weapon." His narrative, set during a nearly two-week period, continually shifts between present to past events. Nash throws in a flurry of activity along the way. As a result, Nash's story as one can guess is replete with twists and turns galore. Adding to its complexities, Nash builds his narrative by incorporating a constant influx of chapter cliffhangers. He also weaves in a handful of subplots, which ultimately culminates at the book's apex. Amid all the wonderful literary tools, Nash shines a light on the ins and outs of cancer research and pertinent medical information. A fast-paced and gripping read, The Girl at the Bar has the potential of wide audience appeal.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
Toula, 5 stars, Goodreads
First one I read by Nicolas. Contemporary one set mostly in New York and a few scenes in Los Angeles. This is a great great story that has you by the throat from the first page. There is a lot of research that Nicolas must have done. Everything is so real life. Everything just falls into place. This story is about murder, revenge and one sick mind that only sees what it wants. Hero is Ragnar. Heroine is Rebecca.
Ragnar spots Rebecca at a bar. They both hit it off. They both start talking about what they do. Ragnar is unemployed. Rebecca works for a pharmaceutical company that tries to help Cancer patients. Rebecca's company does research with how cancer reacts to certain drugs. Rebecca and Ragnar have a night of hot steamy fun.
When Ragnar wakes up the next morning Rebecca is gone. It's not your typical one that the lady leaves before the morning of shame.. every trace of Rebecca is gone ... no answer on her cell phone . Rebecca doesn't attend the function. She doesn't go back to her hotel room. The police get involved and they believe that Ragnar did some illegal funny things to Rebecca. It's a need to read story because this is a very deep story.
Sarah Carper, 4 stars, Goodreads
I was given a pre-release copy of The Girl At The Bar in exchange for my honest review. This book is one of my favorite books in recent times that I've read. This book did an excellent job of keeping me on my toes until the very last page! Nicholas Nash is a wonderful author and a great storyteller. He was able to develop the characters in such a way that I was never able to figure out who the 'mystery character' was. Every single time I *thought* I knew who it was, I was quickly proven wrong. There were so many twists and turns, and I was captivated the entire time I read the story! Also, there was clearly a lot of research dealing with cancer research that went into the writing of this book. I learned so much that I never knew and I loved that aspect of the book! Overall, I would highly recommend this book!
Adriana Koog, 5 stars, Goodreads
I was given a copy of The Girl At The Bar in exchange of an honest review. Wow, this book was excellent! The author provides a very interesting plot based on cancer research and the disappearance of one of the researchers. I loved the way the story was written with a lot of twist and turns that kept me on my toes trying to figure out who the ghost was. Action packed! Mr. Nash is a very talented writer with a gift of storytelling. I can't wait to read his next book!
Wren Reads, 3 stars, Goodreads
I was given the opportunity to review this book honestly before it was released.
Nicholas Nash seems to have done a lot of research on this book. He knows more about cancer than I know about anything in the health world. With that being said, I actually learned a lot about cancer and understand it a little more than I did starting out.
Nash did not just through facts at you though, that's what I loved. He actually explained things so when they are brought up again, you know exactly what he is talking about.
So, Rebecca is the girl that everyone stops and stares at. She has the smarts, the looks and the personality to make just about anyone fall in love with her.
So when she disappears after a one-night stand with Ragnar and before her big speech about recent discoveries in the cure for cancer, people start to get frantic and worried about their beloved scientist.
So lots of people are pointing fingers at each other.Could it be Ragnar, the one night stand and tradesman down on his luck? How about Nancy or Christy, the envious colleagues and jealous coworkers? How about her boss, Julia, who may want all the glory herself? Or the competition, Dr. Gupta, who Rebecca countlessly refused? There are so much people who could have a reason to hate her; but do they have a reason to hurt her? Or kill her?
Nash spent a lot of time putting history behind each person. I felt as if I knew more about them than I really felt necessary, but I love a good backstory as long as it is needed.
This is definitely and adult book. Can get a little graphic sexually and with murder scenes (lots of people do not make it to the end of the book). I thought it was a great read though and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good crime mystery.
Marketing Plan
1. Giving out 100 ARCs for reviews
2. Planning giveaways on book blogs
3. Planning a giveaway to everyone who pre-orders the book
4. Have set up around 10-15 author interviews
5. Releasing book excerpts on book blogs
6. Using social media platforms to connect with fans and influencers
7. Releasing book teasers one month prior to launch
8. Giving out signed hardcovers / bookmarks as giveaways
Available Editions
| EDITION | Hardcover |
| ISBN | 9780998435824 |
| PRICE | $25.99 (USD) |
Links
Featured Reviews
Elyse W, Reviewer
Hot opening scene....one night stand. Rebecca only leaves her black bra behind and slips away before he wakes. No note or phone number.
Police come knocking on James door days later....Rebecca is missing. This gorgeous woman happens to be the 'most' brilliant medical scientist working on a single cancer vaccine - that would cure virtually 'any' cancer.
Intoxicatingly- intimate storytelling - page turning enjoyment!!!
Thank You Fireflies Publishing, Netgalley, and especially author *Nicholas Nash*...
THANKS NICK!!! You're a mensch!
Nancy G, Librarian
I enjoyed the book, but feel the content is too adult for middle school. I would liked to have known more about Isabella Holt.
Sarah C, Reviewer
I was given a pre-release copy of The Girl At The Bar in exchange for my honest review. This book is one of my favorite books in recent times that I've read. This book did an excellent job of keeping me on my toes until the very last page! Nicholas Nash is a wonderful author and a great storyteller. He was able to develop the characters in such a way that I was never able to figure out who the 'mystery character' was. Every single time I *thought* I knew who it was, I was quickly proven wrong. There were so many twists and turns, and I was captivated the entire time I read the story! Also, there was clearly a lot of research dealing with cancer research that went into the writing of this book. I learned so much that I never knew and I loved that aspect of the book! Overall, I would highly recommend this book!
Sandy S, Reviewer
3.5 stars--THE GIRL AT THE BAR by first time author Nicholas Nash is a contemporary, aduit, stand alone, psychological, medical thriller that follows several paths culminating in a decades long vendetta for sins of the past.
Told from several third person points of view using flashbacks, memories, present day and the meanderings of a psychotic mind THE GIRL AT THE BAR is a story of research, hope, devastation, betrayal, murder and revenge. Rebecca Chase is a cancer specialist on the cusp of discovering a possible cure for cancer but hours before her symposium presentation Rebecca goes missing, and the last person to see her, Ragnar Johnson, is a man with a questionable past and Rebecca’s one-night stand. What ensues is a multi-layered investigation looking at several potential suspects that is hindered when a number of Rebecca’s colleagues are murdered within days of her disappearance.
THE GIRL AT THE BAR is a psychological thriller ; a story of intrigue that looks at the competitive side of cancer research; the probabilities of finding a cure; and the potential to save thousands of lives if a cure is to be found. There is an enormous amount of medical detail and technical terminology all relating to finding a cure for the big C but as to its’ authenticity I am not able to confirm the validity of the information presented. The story line also has some questionable means of investigation when a person of interest (aka suspect) is able to uncover more information and clues than the law enforcement or the forensic investigators combined. Similar to many thrillers THE GIRL AT THE BAR contains scenes of graphic violence, blood shed and murder.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the members of two competing research teams, the medical community, law enforcement and a host of witnesses, suspects, and a computer genius capable of breaking through any computer barrier.
THE GIRL AT THE BAR is an engaging and intriguing story line of suspense. The premise is thrilling; the characters are colorful and animated; the reveal is a surprise you will never see coming.
Copy supplied for review (Netgalley)
THE READING CAFÉ: http://www.thereadingcafe.com/the-girl-at-the-bar-by-nicholas-nash-review-guest-post-giveaway/
GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1890202363
AMAZON.COM: https://www.amazon.com/review/R3GBZTGOEOIATI/ref=cm_cr_rdp_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=0998435813
B&N: posted
KOBO:
CHAPTERS/INDIGO: posted
Natalie L, Reviewer
This book may be categorized as a Sci-fi/Thriller, but the author found a way to play psychological warfare with me! Up was down, left was right. Even I didn't know who to trust!
The story starts off with a chance encounter between a beautiful woman, Rebecca, and a handsome man, Ragnar, in a bar. They immediately hit it off and their instant chemistry turns into a night of passion. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, he's sad to see that Rebecca's gone and he has no way of getting in contact with her. All too soon, the cops are at his door because Dr. Rebecca Chase has gone missing and he was the last one to see her.
Ragnar starts off as a suspect, but he's determined to find his girl, with or without police cooperation. As the cops start digging, their list of suspects grows longer. The body count is rising and suspects are dropping like flies.
I honestly didn't know who was behind it all and didn't bother to hazard a guess after I got it wrong the second time! Everyone had secrets and everyone had a motive. I was pleasantly shocked by the big reveal and I think other readers will be too. There is no doubt that the author keeps us guessing right to the end.
Nicholas Nash held me captivated with his mastery of words and this story refused to loose me from its grip until it reached its conclusion. It was obvious that he spent tremendous time on not only forming this story, but the research that went into it. I recommend this novel to fans of crime/sci-fi/mystery/thrillers.
Release Date: February 1, 2017
Genre: Sci-fi/Thriller
POV: Multiple - 3rd person
Steam: 1 out of 5
Series or standalone: Standalone
Nicole G, Reviewer
This book is a definite page turner. If you have time to read it in one sitting I suggest you do so!
I didn't know what to expect from this book but I was pleasantly surprised with all aspects from the characters, the apparent research that went into the science details of the book, to the suspense that lead to a very surprising ending! I'm looking forward to reading more works by this author.
Jennifer T, Reviewer
For my suspense/thriller fans out there, let me tell you about The Girl at the Bar by Nicholas Nash! An out of work trader named Ragnar sees and meets the beautiful Rebecca in a hotel bar. Their chemistry is instant and after talking about everything, including her role as a cancer researcher, Rebecca decides not to fight the desire between them and goes home with Ragnar. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, he finds that Rebecca is gone and he is kicking himself because they didn’t exchange numbers. However, it’s not long until the police show up at his door inquiring about his relationship with Rebecca and he learns that she has been reported missing. Soon there are several people involved other than the police that looking into her disappearance and/or considered suspects including rival pharmaceutical CEO’s and fellow researchers, Rebecca’s ex-fiance, an ex-cop and an ex-boyfriend and fellow researcher. After initial questioning, Ragnar can’t get his mind off of Rebecca and her disappearance. He questions himself, wondering if he did something and blacked out, but also starts doing his own research and finding his own leads into her disappearance. Lines are blurred and several paths cross one another as everyone tries to figure out where Rebecca is, if she is still alive and most importantly, who is behind her disappearance.
I loved this novel in that it wonderfully represents a “whodunnit” mystery. There are so many players involved and so many sub-plots related to each person that at times, it almost makes your head spin. Poor Ragnar was fired after an on-going cover-up trading job cost people millions of dollars. He now lives alone, unable to find work and has few friends or even acquaintances. Although he keeps having these fabulous “aha moments” where he is able to gain some leads on Rebecca’s disappearance, he also ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time frequently throughout the novel. An old co-worker of Ragnar’s named Eddie is very active in the story with his expert IT skills for research and putting together the pieces of the puzzle as Ragnar gives them to him. His character is brilliant and adds a lot to the overall plot. The rival pharmaceutical CEO’s Julia and Matheus both claim to want to help find Rebecca, especially Julia that likens Rebecca as a child to her. Julia has Rebecca on her side and with Atticus Pharmaceuticals, but Matheus has always wanted Rebecca to join Faust Pharmaceuticals, along with Rebecca’s ex-boyfriend and researcher, Gustav. Other researchers Nancy and Christy are also relevant, especially Nancy, who has always been jealous of Julia and Rebecca’s close friendship. Then there is also the famous researcher Dr. Gupta, who was basically left behind by Rebecca and her breakthroughs and blames her for stealing his early research in finding the cure for cancer. Basically – there are a lot of people connected to Rebecca, the cancer research, and each other – all of whom could be responsible for her missing or become the next target.
The kidnapper makes several appearances in the novel prior to being revealed, but those moments refer to “the void,” as a void that needs to be filled but it’s referred to as a living thing. There are some weird, freaky things that go on in the void’s “head,” but it all just adds to the suspense and mystery as you read and try to figure out who are good guys, who are bad guys, and who has stabbed who in the back along the way. I must admit that I did not have any idea who the void was and was shocked once it was revealed. I love a mystery that keeps me guessing and re-guessing the entire time, and this is definitely one of those novels! The novel was very fast-paced and held my attention, although at times I felt bogged down by some of the cancer research lingo and back stories, but after finishing the novel and reflecting back on it, I feel like it mostly added to the plot and suspense. I also loved that this was told from several points of view. Almost everyone that is relevant in the story speaks from their point of view at some point or the other, giving the reader a thorough glimpse of what’s going on in their head, while still wondering if they are the bad guy.
Was this the best mystery/suspense thriller I’ve ever read? No. But, it was damned good and pulled me in from the start. I highly, highly recommend The Girl at the Bar if you enjoy this genre. It’s a crazy, wild ride but is very entertaining and will keep you guessing until the end!
*Thanks to NetGalley for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Kevin M, Bookseller
A riveting novel that gets you from the first page. Great ideas, fun and wonderful characters!
Lisa W, Reviewer
** Disclaimer: This book was provided by the Author and Quill and Ink Tours in exchange for an honest review**
Well.. well... where do I start..??? The Girl at The Bar is not a book for the faint of heart. It does have some adult themes and as you can imagine some gruesome crime scenes as it is a Psychological Thriller but I could not put this book down.
First off lets talk about the characters.. Ragnar is such a sweetie and you definitely feel for him. He is head over heals from the first time he sees Rebecca and will do anything to find her.. This is insta-love (on his part for sure) but the story doesn't really play out like a normal Insta- love romance.
The cops - Timothy - I get the feeling that he is a decent guy and I kinda like him. Roberta - No... just no.. I dislike her so much that I want to reach through the book and slap her round the face a few times!!
Raoul - seems like a loner type. Private investigator , rough ex cop with a soft side.
The other characters that appear throughout the book are definitely shifty and you do start to wonder "who dunnit?"
Nash has a way of allowing you to get to know all the characters whilst still staying on track with the main story , which is finding Rebecca. Is she dead?? is she alive?? who took her?? love the transition between past and present. It definitely gives you a better feel for the characters, the storyline and how they got to that moment where Rebecca went missing.
The list of suspects is endless. Personally, maybe because I have watched so many crime dramas and films in my life I kinda had an idea about who it was but had no reason why it would be them, which really confused me. The way Nash builds suspense, gives you a little bit of a teaser, and then switches it up will definitely keep you gripped and on the edge of your seats.
Overall, great characters, great storyline, very well written, fast paced, full of suspense and questions throughout. A perfect example of what a Psychological Thriller should be. I would 100% recommend this book.
This misfit gives The Girl at The Bar a 5 out of 5
Avonna K, Reviewer
I absolutely love when I try a new author with no expectations and am completely absorbed into the story. THE GIRL AT THE BAR by Nicolas Nash is one of those mystery/thrillers that are rich in backgrounds, technical information and clues without bogging down the pace and keeps you guessing until the end.
Dr. Rebecca Chase is a brilliant cancer researcher in New York City for a medical conference. The night before she is to present, she meets Ragnar Johnson at her hotel bar. She leaves to go to his place for a one night stand. When Ragnar wakes up the next morning, she is gone, not just from his apartment, but she has completely disappeared.
No one knows why she would disappear. Her research has placed her in the middle of a high-stakes battle between two mega pharma companies. Her personal life is a mess, but she is not the type of person to just walk away from her life’s work and career. After her disappearance, others associated with her start to be killed and there are so many different motives and agendas, you don’t know who to trust.
Ragnar is a brilliant out of work trader with social and psychiatric problems. Even though he knows he looks to be the prime suspect in Rebecca’s disappearance, he can’t stay uninvolved. He and his tech expert/hacker friend, Eddie chase clues. As he works the case, he is being followed by Raoul Perez who heads up security for Atticus Biopharma and was a NYC detective previously. You also have a competent team of detectives, Timothy and Roberta, who we follow as they work the case.
During the story, you are introduced to an entity that just calls itself “the void”. It is never completely satisfied or filled for long. You realize this is the mind of the kidnapper/killer and the way it describes itself is extremely chilling.
There are so many characters that have a variety of motives that I was continually changing my mind on who was the guilty party and why. Even with all the moving parts, I was never confused on who was who. All of the characters were so interesting and realistic that I just had to keep turning the pages. I love this type of mystery as it takes you step by step and lets you think and discover along with the detectives and Ragnor. Please note: There is a moment of graphic violence at the climax. I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel and will be looking for more from this author.
Thanks very much to Fireflies Publishing LLC and Net Galley for allowing me to read an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. It was my pleasure.
Patricia R, Reviewer
Wow, just wow! I have been wanting to read this book since I read the description. Nicholas Nash did not disappoint! From the very start the story hooks you in and you do not want to put it down.
What I loved mostly about this book is that I thought I had the whole case figured out, but I was so wrong! The way the writer weaves the story really throws you off.
My only complaint was that there were too many grammatical errors. I received an ARC, I hope that those were corrected in the final version.
Will definitely read this author again.
Margaret H, Reviewer
A chance meeting with admittedly spontaneous combustion, leads a man to attempting to save the life of a brilliant researcher in the hands of an equally brilliant psychopath. Unexpected twist and a complex plot.
Diane P, Reviewer
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. What a thrill ride! Once you start this, you will not want to stop reading. Rebecca has a one night stand with a guy she meets at a bar. Then she disappears. Through most of the book you will not know if she is alive or dead. We do learn she is an incredible scientist and doing some too secret research on a cure for cancer. There are many players in this story, and I have to say I never suspected the villain. Excellent writing and highly recommend. Unputdownable!
judy b, Reviewer
A real page turner couldn't put it down characters are well developed and the plot moves along nicely
Robyn L, Educator
A good medical thriller/mystery. The writing style seemed a bit forced at times as if the author were offering a description for a catalog, but a good story.
Reviewer 406082
The Girl at the Bar
Good Reads Review, 4 stars
Thank you Netgalley, Fireflies Publishing, and author Nicholas Nash for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review
A chance meeting at a bar and a one night stand sets the stage for this page-turning and all consuming novel. Ragnar meets Rebecca and the chemistry leaves the two in the throws of a steamy night. When Rebecca leaves the Ragnar’s bed in the morning, she slips away leaving only a trail of a single black bra. The cops soon show up on the door of Ragnar home….Dr. Rebecca Chase, a brilliant medical marvel is missing. Where is Rebecca Chase? Is she hurt? Is she dead? Who would possibly want to see ill-will towards this medical genius about to cure cancer?
This book was a well researched crime/medical novel. There are many sub plots to this story that makes this novel a compulsive read. I highly recommend this entertaining novel that keeps you second-guessing yourself until the end.
Reviewer 83549
The twists, the plot, strong. The sex scenes, ugh. I skipped that as much as possible. That really detracts from a book for me. An anmazing woman, Rebecca, with her whole life ahead of her and rather together, has a one night stand and vanishes. Who did it? Why? Did she have cancer, this outstanding cancer researcher? So many questions and the answers come as you read.
My copy came from Net Galley. My thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is left of my own free volition.
Bin Blogs B, Reviewer
Interesting suspenseful story that combines with interesting facts about the field of cancer research. Who done it meets scientific journal.
Leslie T, Reviewer
Very interesting book, both for the plotline, the character development, as well as the background story about the scientific aspect of the story. Definitely recommend!
Faye D, Media/Journalist
Ragnar Johnson finds himself a suspect when cancer researcher Rebecca Chase disappears after she meets him in a bar. Rebecca did go home with him, but arose before dawn and left, according to Ragnar. The police find him to be a good suspect because of his past and because he has mental issues.
Ragnar decides to investigate himself, following the clues (and sometimes leading the authorities to new information).
There are plenty of twists and turns here, including what goes on behind the scenes in the world of cancer research.
This was Nash’s first novel. He has a big challenge if he wants to top it.
Readers who liked this book also liked:
