A review by nikkisbooknook
Only The Children by S.A. Dunphy

emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Tessa and the Burns Unit are back in action when a cargo ship runs aground.  The only people still alive on board are three abducted children.  They aren't talking and the team are going to be up against it to identify them.

Ballymoney Beach, near Rosslare is where the boat pitched up and the Coast Guard are also involved in the investigation.  What unfolds is a complicated, chilling story of politics, child trafficking and trauma survival. 

Whilst most of the story is told through the POV of the team, the real heart wrenching moments come from the odd chapter from the kids POV.  There are layers upon layers to the story and I really sunk myself into it.  I read this in one fell swoop and didn't even take a comfort break.

Fast-paced, chock full of suspense and emotive.  There is even the beginnings of a relationship for Tessa.  One where both partners are on even footing, in law enforcement and on the same page morally.

I'm on tenterhooks for book 3!