Sometimes a haven becomes a prison
Hidden by Karen E. Olson Pub Date: November 1, 2015 Description This tense and twisting novel of identity and suspense marks an intriguing new departure for cozy mystery writer Karen E. Olson. Nicole Jones – if that is her real name - lives off the grid. She doesn’t have a licence, passport or bank account. She definitely doesn’t own a computer. She hasn’t left her refuge, Block Island, in fifteen years. She’s hidden from the world and she likes it that way. Nicole doesn’t use a computer, not because she’s afraid of it, but because she’s afraid of what she – a badass hacker in her past life – would do with it. When the last person Nicole wants to see suddenly reappears, using a name he knows will draw her out, Nicole realizes that her time hidden is now ending. Her past secrets tumbling into the open and her carefully-constructed new life set to fall apart, Nicole must re-hone her long-suppressed computer skills in order to escape from an island that is no longer a haven, but suddenly a prison. Review Hidden is the riveting tale of a former hacker who is forced to put her long ignored skills to use when the life she has built comes crumbling down. Nicole Jackson lives a quiet life on Block Island, earning money by giving bicycle tours and painting landscapes. Quiet meals with a few friends rounds out her activities. For 15 years, she hasn't touched a computer. When the lover who betrayed her shows up on the island using a name meant to get her attention, she realizes her time is limited. He wants what he believes she owes him, and he is not the only one searching for her. In order to survive, Nicole has to use her old skills and rely on the loyalty of her friends. Hidden is a beautifully written piece of suspense. Nicole is a credible lead, and the actions she takes to obscure her identity and live off the grid are believable. As a reader, you feel how heart wrenching it is for Nicole to see her peaceful and happy life come apart. Hidden is a great choice for anyone who likes suspense. 5/5 Hidden is available for preorder and will be released November 1, 2015. I received a copy of Hidden from the publisher and netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. --Crittermom
