Finding Ruby: A Nell Montague Mystery by J.A. Higgins

Release: June 21, 2019
Format: Ebook
Publisher: SilverWood Books
Source: Netgalley
Find it at: Amazon, Audible, GoodReads

On Halloween night, thirteen-year-old Ruby disappears in the company of a masked figure. She is never seen again. The only witness is Nell Montague who is just seven years old.

Twenty-three years later, Nell is trapped in an abusive relationship and still suffering from vivid nightmares of what she saw. When tragedy strikes she escapes and attempts to put her past behind her. Then, thirteen-year-old Emily disappears.

Haunted by increasingly disturbing visions and helped by a reluctant psychic, Nell must unravel the mystery of what really happened that night, because to save Emily she must first find Ruby. But to do so she will question everything she thought she knew about her own childhood and soon discovers that nightmares don’t always end when you wake up.

About Author:

Born and raised at Porton Down in Wiltshire and currently working for the NHS in Salisbury, J A Higgins has always been fascinated by crime, history and the unexplained.

Finding Ruby is the first in the Nell Montague mystery series, which will examine how horrors from the past are still very relevant today. Eleven years ago, the idea occurred to the author, developing into characters and a story that recurred so frequently, it needed to be put onto paper.

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Finding Ruby: A Nell Montague Mystery Review

Let me begin by expressing my immediate connection with Nell from the first page. Following her grandmother’s passing, it’s evident how profound her loneliness becomes, especially while enduring an abusive relationship with Greg. Furthermore, Nell experiences haunting dreams that leave you curious about her future and her unique abilities.

Additionally, I found the supporting characters who enter Nell’s life quite captivating. For instance, Mr. Austin’s mysterious appearance adds an intriguing layer, keeping his true intentions veiled. Similarly, I appreciated how Max entered the narrative, forming a solid bond with Nell.

Furthermore, the storytelling in this book is noteworthy. While some scenes are vividly graphic and have a touch of the supernatural, the author effectively evokes empathy for the characters, particularly Nell. Some of my favorite moments include the seance and the party scenes. I also appreciated the narrative structure, with its skillful use of flashbacks to gradually unveil Ruby’s life and Nell’s role.

Moreover, the introduction of Leon adds a touch of romance, and glimpses into Maxine’s personal life add depth to the story.

Perhaps the only downside to the tale is that the pacing is a bit slow, as the author focuses more on the character’s emotions than the mystery.

In summary, “Finding Ruby” is a captivating initiation into the Nell Montague series, and I eagerly anticipate its continuation.