Cover Image: Daughter

Daughter

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Member Reviews

I'm sorry that this novel fell under the radar but because it's really well written and a very interesting premise that is definitely appealing to both teen and adult readers. I think the execution could have been a little bit better but overall this was an interesting book

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I’m not sure how I feel about this one still. I liked it while I was reading it but I found it very forgettable. I did really like the characters and the story line.

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In "Daughter" by Kate McLaughlin, the author once again demonstrates her exceptional storytelling mastery, captivating readers with a compelling narrative that seamlessly blends suspense, emotion, and relatable characters. As a librarian who appreciates McLaughlin's literary style, I found "Daughter" to be a stellar addition to her body of work, showcasing her ability to tackle poignant themes relevant to young adult readers. The novel delves into the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and self-discovery, creating a rich tapestry that resonates with both teenage and adult audiences.

One of the strengths of McLaughlin's writing is her knack for crafting authentic and multidimensional characters. In "Daughter," the protagonist's journey of self-realization is both powerful and relatable, drawing readers into a world where they can empathize with the struggles and triumphs of the characters. The author skillfully explores the nuances of relationships, making the novel not only a thrilling read but also a poignant exploration of the human experience.

Beyond the engaging characters, McLaughlin's storytelling is enhanced by her masterful command of suspense and plot development. "Daughter" keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that the book is not easily put down. As a librarian who often recommends books to young adult readers, I am confident that "Daughter" will become a cherished addition to our library's collection, offering a captivating and thought-provoking experience for those seeking a well-crafted and emotionally resonant story.

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Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read this in exchange for my honest review. I thought this book was fantastic. It really shows a relatable main character, and what she does to right the wrongs of the past. Scarlett is really willing to do whatever it takes, even coming face to face with the man that is her biological father, to give some closure to families that really need it. Would definitely recommend. A chilling read!

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Engaging and entertaining. A recommended purchase for YA and HS collections where mysteries and thrillers are popular.

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I loved this book! I read it in one sitting. I would definitely recommend this book to all my family and friends! It had me from page 1!!!

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DAUGHTER – by Kate McLaughlin – Young Adult Thriller

‘Scarlet’s life is pretty average. Overly protective mom. Great friends. Cute boy she’s interested in. And a father she’s never known – until she does.’

‘When the FBI show up at Scarlet’s door, she is shocked to learn her father is infamous serial killer Jeffrey Robert Lake.’

Scarlet—My Heart!

I love Scarlet’s personality and how she handles and deals with the truth about her father whilst trying to navigate her now turbulent life as a teenager. Scarlet, too, must face redefining her relationship with her secretive Mother—Recommend!

Thank you, NetGalley and Wednesday Books (St. Martin’s Press), for providing me with an eBook of DAUGHTER at the request of an honest review.

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This was such a great read. I love the psychology behind it and the interactions with her father. I didn't really understand the very sudden shift with the mother but other than that it was a good read that I couldn't wait to read more

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Daughter by Kate McLaughlin is an electrifying young adult thriller that plunges readers into a world of darkness, danger, and the unrelenting pursuit of truth. The story centers around Scarlet, a seemingly ordinary girl whose life is shattered when the FBI reveals her father's true identity as the notorious serial killer, Jeffrey Robert Lake. Scarlet's world is upended as she learns the horrifying truth about her father's crimes, only to be confronted with a chilling ultimatum: her father will reveal the names and locations of his remaining victims, but only to her—the daughter he hasn't seen since infancy.

Kate McLaughlin masterfully creates an atmosphere of tension and unease, plunging readers into a cat-and-mouse game where every moment is rife with danger. As Scarlet and her mother face the media frenzy and the blame directed towards Scarlet for her father's actions, their fight for survival becomes an intense battle against both external threats and the demons within.

The exploration of Scarlet's struggle to define herself apart from her father's monstrous legacy adds a compelling layer to the narrative. McLaughlin skillfully depicts the psychological turmoil Scarlet endures as she confronts her darkest fears and battles against the world's perception of her. The author's ability to convey Scarlet's internal conflict and her determination to rise above her circumstances heightens the emotional stakes of the story.

While the exploration of identity and survival is a standout aspect of the book, some readers may find certain plot elements predictable within the thriller genre. However, the author's ability to maintain a high level of tension and deliver unexpected surprises compensates for any minor predictability, keeping readers engrossed in the story.

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Daughter is a really great book. I loved how it was written and how it was able to keep me interested throughout the book. I can't wait to read more by Kate McLaughlin!

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Daughter by Patricia McLaughlin was a fast-paced book that hooked me right from the start. I love Criminal Mind type books and this one doesn't disappoint. Scarlet is your typical 17-year-old living with her mom who keeps the reins tight. Scarlet doesn't understand why her mom is so controlling and strict until the FBI shows up. This is when Scarlet learns she is the daughter of a serial killer. Throughout the book you really get to see into to the mind of a serial killer and the aftereffects endured by the murderer's family.

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A wonderfully written story. You get to know these characters and feel for them when things go wrong or rejoice with when things go right.

This is a story of a young lady who has to face the demons of her past that she never knew existed. She also has to come to terms and reconcile what she believes to be true and reality as it really is.

A definite recommend from me.

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This was darker than I expected. I really enjoyed the premise of the book. Im a sucker for anything regarding serial killers. Daughter isnt your typical true crime book. I found it very unique that we get the story from the daughter of the killer.
In real life it’s so easy to forget about the families of the people that commit awful crimes.

The author did a great job with all the characters. I’ll tell you right now, the killer Jeffrey was absolutely despicable. The wat she wrote him terrified me.

Overall I recommend this if you like books with dark topics.

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From the first page, I was hooked. I loved the premise of this book, and Scarlett as a main character. She has spunk and the belief of invincibility of a typical teenager which is just the combination needed to confront her serial killer father. The interactions between Scarlett and her father were tense and dramatic. Her relationship with her mom, after learning all the secrets she kept, is tenuous at best. Scarlett’s relationship with the FBI agent and his family is lovely, and they are just what Scarlett needs to offset the struggle in her own family. Agent Logan is like the father Scarlett never had.

The only disappointment to me was that every character self-medicated. It was used as a solution to all problems. Whether it was weed, anxiety pills, or alcohol, it was the go-to to get through every situation. While it would be understandable for one character to do this, all of them make it an unfortunate plot point.

The struggle to decide if mistakes made in the past will define her future, Scarlett is resilient and fierce. How she decides to take control of the narrative is exactly what I would expect from her character. I just wish we got to see the end result.

I definitely cannot wait to read more from this author and, in fact, already have her next book.

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I have loved everything I've read by Kate McLaughlin. Including Daughter..

This book had me on the edge of my seat wondering if Scarlet would get all the information that she needs before her father dies.

Scarlet is living a normal -- albeit somewhat sheltered -- life with her mother, when suddenly she's thrown into a scandal and a lot of information about who she really is. It's all information that her mother has kept from her and now she needs to navigate this new life of hers.

There's something that Scarlet that made me feel indifferent toward her but I can't really put my finger on it. Her friends were questionable, too. And her "father," oof. I know he's old and powerless, ready to die, but he was far from sinister. Disgusting if anything.

I guess I was expecting a little more mystery and suspense than what was presented, but I still enjoyed the book. There is some hard topics mentioned (necrophilia being one) so it can be difficult for some to read.

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I really enjoyed this book. A different take on a serial killer story, not told from a victim or the killer but from his daughter. This was my first book by this author but it won't be my last.

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This is one of those books that has been on my Kindle for awhile. After just finishing it I asked my why the hell did I wait so long. I absolutely loved everything about this book. The storyline, the characters and it was concluded perfectly.

It seems that everyone is obsessed with serial killers. There are multiple documentaries, docuseries and movies on the subject. While Scarlett imbibed in the phenomenon, she never imagined that she would suddenly become apart of it.

Her mother's helicopter parenting and police like vigilance are now starting to finally make sense. Due to living that type of lifestyle, Scarlett is not prepared for the onslaught of attention being the daughter of a serial killer brings. She's not prepared to be blamed for horrific acts that were never her fault.

A gripping coming of age, love and doing the right thing story. I would highly recommend you take the time to read this book. I'm very sorry it took me this long.

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I have to read anything serial killer related. I’m so glad I didn’t skip this one. I didn’t see all of the twists and turns coming. Definitely would recommend.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.

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As a sucker for anything Serial Killer, I knew I needed to read this one. I'm so glad I did.

They story was great and I loved Scarlet’s character so much. She was stronger than she thought she could be and turned the story on its head. She told a terrible situation and made the best of it in every way she could. She didn't let her "father" take advantage of her, held ger ground and helped the victims families along the way.

I think the author did a great job of piqueing intrigue with the murderer, yet steering the focus where it really should be. It also added so much more to what could have been just another series killer thriller. It's always a treat to get a different perspective.

This was a great introduction for me to this author and I can't wait to check out other works by her.

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What happens when you are a girl who loves books and the world doesn’t let you read? You apologize to the author and to make up for things you buy the audiobook so that you can inhale the book in 6 hours give or take.
This is a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Scarlet is a fairly average teen. She has some great friends, has a boy she is very interested in, and an overprotective mother. She also has a father she has never known, until now. When Scarlet thinks she has a normal life be it with an over bearing mother things are going ok and then the FBI shows up and nothing is ever the same. During their visit Scarlet she learns a great big whopper of a secret. Her father is an infamous serial killer! Jeffery Robert Lake. Now, he’s dying and has said he will only give the names and locations of the victims he hasn’t told anyone about to her. Now the reader knows why her mother is as she is and it makes perfect sense. This is my favorite kind of thriller because You know what to expect but the way it is presented is fresh and fun!

Scarlet is a teen at the end of the day. People expect her to do the right thing, right but how can she when She just found out about her father and on top of that He’s a KILLER. The story has your traditional YA and all the makings of a great thriller. An all around a great read 4 stars all the way!

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