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Blood Sugar
“I could just kill you right now!” It’s something we’ve all thought at one time or another. But Ruby has actually acted on it. Three times, to be exact.
Though she may be a murderer, Ruby is not a sociopath. She is an animal-loving therapist with a thriving practice. She’s felt empathy and sympathy. She’s had long-lasting friendships and relationships, and has a husband, Jason, whom she adores. But the homicide detectives at Miami Beach PD are not convinced of her happy marriage. When we meet Ruby, she is in a police interrogation room, being accused of Jason’s murder. Which, ironically, is one murder that she did not commit, though her vicious mother-in-law and a scandal-obsessed public believe differently. As she undergoes questioning, Ruby’s mind races back to all the details of her life that led her to this exact moment, and to the three dead bodies in her wake. Because though she may not have killed her husband, Ruby certainly isn’t innocent.
Alternating between Ruby’s memories of her past crimes and her present-day fight to clear her name, Blood Sugar is a twisty, clever debut with an unforgettable protagonist who you can’t help but root for—an addicting mixture of sour and sweet.
Though she may be a murderer, Ruby is not a sociopath. She is an animal-loving therapist with a thriving practice. She’s felt empathy and sympathy. She’s had long-lasting friendships and relationships, and has a husband, Jason, whom she adores. But the homicide detectives at Miami Beach PD are not convinced of her happy marriage. When we meet Ruby, she is in a police interrogation room, being accused of Jason’s murder. Which, ironically, is one murder that she did not commit, though her vicious mother-in-law and a scandal-obsessed public believe differently. As she undergoes questioning, Ruby’s mind races back to all the details of her life that led her to this exact moment, and to the three dead bodies in her wake. Because though she may not have killed her husband, Ruby certainly isn’t innocent.
Alternating between Ruby’s memories of her past crimes and her present-day fight to clear her name, Blood Sugar is a twisty, clever debut with an unforgettable protagonist who you can’t help but root for—an addicting mixture of sour and sweet.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published April 19, 2022
About the author
Sascha Rothchild
2 books454 followersSascha Rothchild grew up in South Beach and excelled in school although not at the expense of causing trouble. Her defiant teen years are infamously portrayed on the national radio show This American Life.
After majoring in playwriting at Boston College and graduating summa cum laude, Sascha moved to Los Angeles to begin her television writing career. She broke into the tv and film business when her humorous personal essays published in LA Weekly got the attention of movie studios. Her article How To Get Divorced By 30 was optioned by Universal Studios and she was given a book deal by Penguin. She was then hired to write the feature for the studio, putting her on the Hollywood map, and her memoir How To Get Divorced by 30 garnered lots of buzz. She then went on to also sell feature films to Dreamworks, Sony, Paramount, Disney and Fox.
She shifted her attention to television, her original goal, and sold a comedy pilot to NBC. She was also staffed as a writer and Consulting Producer on The CW show The Carrie Diaries. Sascha has since developed original TV pilots for Freeform, ABC, The CW, HBO and Netflix. She was named one of ten “writers to watch” by Variety in 2014.
For the past three years she has been writing and co-executive producing the Emmy nominated Netflix series GLOW as well as writing and producing the Netflix show Huge In France. She also wrote and co-executive produced the fourth season of the lauded Freeform/Hulu show The Bold Type and is currently an Executive Producer and writer on the hit Netflix series, The Babysitters Club. Sascha continues to also write personal essays, the most recent was published by Elle Magazine.
Sascha is thrilled to announce that her debut novel, Blood Sugar, is being published by Putnam in the Spring of 2022.
After majoring in playwriting at Boston College and graduating summa cum laude, Sascha moved to Los Angeles to begin her television writing career. She broke into the tv and film business when her humorous personal essays published in LA Weekly got the attention of movie studios. Her article How To Get Divorced By 30 was optioned by Universal Studios and she was given a book deal by Penguin. She was then hired to write the feature for the studio, putting her on the Hollywood map, and her memoir How To Get Divorced by 30 garnered lots of buzz. She then went on to also sell feature films to Dreamworks, Sony, Paramount, Disney and Fox.
She shifted her attention to television, her original goal, and sold a comedy pilot to NBC. She was also staffed as a writer and Consulting Producer on The CW show The Carrie Diaries. Sascha has since developed original TV pilots for Freeform, ABC, The CW, HBO and Netflix. She was named one of ten “writers to watch” by Variety in 2014.
For the past three years she has been writing and co-executive producing the Emmy nominated Netflix series GLOW as well as writing and producing the Netflix show Huge In France. She also wrote and co-executive produced the fourth season of the lauded Freeform/Hulu show The Bold Type and is currently an Executive Producer and writer on the hit Netflix series, The Babysitters Club. Sascha continues to also write personal essays, the most recent was published by Elle Magazine.
Sascha is thrilled to announce that her debut novel, Blood Sugar, is being published by Putnam in the Spring of 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,801 reviews
April 23, 2022
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin-Putnam, and Sascha Rothchild for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 4.19!**
"It was a curious phrase. I could kill... One I had never used since I actually had killed before. I was a murderer, so for me it lost its hyperbolic quality...People were always exclaiming, "I could kill you right now"...or the classic joke, "If I tell you I'd have to kill you," and on and on and on. I heard something like that said at least once a week, and I nodded and smiled and understood, like a well-adjusted nonhomicidal person."
Meet Ruby. You may THINK you know what goes on in a murderer's mind. And that all crimes are cut and dried, motives secure, and each person inherently has a clear definition of good and evil.
....but you'd be DEAD wrong.
Ruby has been accused of not one, not two, not three, but FOUR murders. And ironically, she's perfectly okay with taking credit for three of the four. But Ruby has a HEART. She's a therapist now, and as she takes you through the backstory of her life, you'll get to know her friends, family, her ambitions and dreams, and about her true love, Jason. (And the details surrounding those ACTUAL murders, naturally.) Of course, when you first meet Ruby, she's in the interrogation room, called to question about the murder of said husband...but this is the one time Ruby just HAS to be innocent, right?
She'll tell you anything you want to know...and this time, she IS innocent. I mean, she isn't a sociopath and she LOVED her husband. So what exactly happened that fateful night? Will Jason's death be the last domino, setting an unstoppable chain in motion that will lead right back to Ruby FINALLY being held accountable for all of thosemurders mercy killings from so many years ago?
First off, the fact that I have not heard more about this book BLOWS MY MIND. I just happened to catch the flashy, bright cover while browsing for new books one day, and thank goodness I had the sense to check out the synopsis and grab it. I adore books with a devilish yet charming narrator, and although Ruby wasn't what I expected, she became SO much more! The first chapter takes you through her first murder in a very disturbing way, and at first I was a bit put off, because there is nothing sympathetic or redemptive about her from page one.
BUT JUST WAIT.
This narrative is like a pot set to boil, and as it simmers, you get to know Ruby on a deeper and deeper level, to the point where she genuinely feels like a friend. I mean, a murderous friend. But a friend nonetheless! The characterization in this one is STELLAR. I really can't speak highly enough of Rothchild's ability to not only portray Ruby as a perfectly logical and likable person with good intentions, but to build up just enough of her dark side to make her the enigmatic and addictive narrator I've been craving lately. Nothing about this plot is too predictable, there is no writing on the wall, and I absolutely loved every moment of Ruby's backstory. I did not want to put this book down and days later, I am STILL thinking about it.
Rothchild's influences also include Jane Austen, Anne Rice, David Sedaris, and Gillian Flynn. I don't know if I've ever heard a more diverse group....but it WORKS. Her words have edge, heart, humor, and an air of mystery, and besides her fabulous screenwriting on shows like GLOW and the Netflix reboot of the Babysitter's Club, I'm absolutely chomping at the bit for her next book already!
Thriller loving friends near and far....PUT THIS BOOK on your list!! I always knew I had a sweet tooth, but this candy-coated, dark, and deliciously dangerous read gives the phrase sugar rush a new meaning.
And the best thing about devouring this one? Absolutely NO cavities! 😉
4.5 stars
"It was a curious phrase. I could kill... One I had never used since I actually had killed before. I was a murderer, so for me it lost its hyperbolic quality...People were always exclaiming, "I could kill you right now"...or the classic joke, "If I tell you I'd have to kill you," and on and on and on. I heard something like that said at least once a week, and I nodded and smiled and understood, like a well-adjusted nonhomicidal person."
Meet Ruby. You may THINK you know what goes on in a murderer's mind. And that all crimes are cut and dried, motives secure, and each person inherently has a clear definition of good and evil.
....but you'd be DEAD wrong.
Ruby has been accused of not one, not two, not three, but FOUR murders. And ironically, she's perfectly okay with taking credit for three of the four. But Ruby has a HEART. She's a therapist now, and as she takes you through the backstory of her life, you'll get to know her friends, family, her ambitions and dreams, and about her true love, Jason. (And the details surrounding those ACTUAL murders, naturally.) Of course, when you first meet Ruby, she's in the interrogation room, called to question about the murder of said husband...but this is the one time Ruby just HAS to be innocent, right?
She'll tell you anything you want to know...and this time, she IS innocent. I mean, she isn't a sociopath and she LOVED her husband. So what exactly happened that fateful night? Will Jason's death be the last domino, setting an unstoppable chain in motion that will lead right back to Ruby FINALLY being held accountable for all of those
First off, the fact that I have not heard more about this book BLOWS MY MIND. I just happened to catch the flashy, bright cover while browsing for new books one day, and thank goodness I had the sense to check out the synopsis and grab it. I adore books with a devilish yet charming narrator, and although Ruby wasn't what I expected, she became SO much more! The first chapter takes you through her first murder in a very disturbing way, and at first I was a bit put off, because there is nothing sympathetic or redemptive about her from page one.
BUT JUST WAIT.
This narrative is like a pot set to boil, and as it simmers, you get to know Ruby on a deeper and deeper level, to the point where she genuinely feels like a friend. I mean, a murderous friend. But a friend nonetheless! The characterization in this one is STELLAR. I really can't speak highly enough of Rothchild's ability to not only portray Ruby as a perfectly logical and likable person with good intentions, but to build up just enough of her dark side to make her the enigmatic and addictive narrator I've been craving lately. Nothing about this plot is too predictable, there is no writing on the wall, and I absolutely loved every moment of Ruby's backstory. I did not want to put this book down and days later, I am STILL thinking about it.
Rothchild's influences also include Jane Austen, Anne Rice, David Sedaris, and Gillian Flynn. I don't know if I've ever heard a more diverse group....but it WORKS. Her words have edge, heart, humor, and an air of mystery, and besides her fabulous screenwriting on shows like GLOW and the Netflix reboot of the Babysitter's Club, I'm absolutely chomping at the bit for her next book already!
Thriller loving friends near and far....PUT THIS BOOK on your list!! I always knew I had a sweet tooth, but this candy-coated, dark, and deliciously dangerous read gives the phrase sugar rush a new meaning.
And the best thing about devouring this one? Absolutely NO cavities! 😉
4.5 stars
February 15, 2023
This is unique, capturing, interesting thriller that I couldn’t put it down! The character driven writing style, story building were refreshingly original and creative! I was so excited to learn about main character’s past to understand her present predicament!
The authors who are too brilliant have special gift to make us love the killers. We loved a sociopath ( we felt sorry who turned into a miserable Lumberjack and feel happy he returned back after 8 years: you know who I am talking about) and we learned to love a stalker who was once upon a time gossip girl!
This time talented Ms. Rotchild made us love a lady killer ! Actually she’s some kind of social defender fighting against dirty scumbags like bullies, child molesters! Even though she committed her first crime at the age of five, she still had good intentions like saving her sister from vicious bully who tried to steal her innocence!
Ruby is smart, emotional, observant , caring. She’s a therapist: she already studied herself so don’t think she’s sociopath! She actually feels a lot! She has both empathy and sympathy! She has long lasting friendships and relationships. She is compassionate. And she’s extremely kind to animals but unfortunately detective Keith Jackson who is sweating and questioning her at the interrogation room of the police station has no idea about her true identity!
She killed three times and got away with it. But now she gets interrogated for the crime she didn’t commit! She didn’t kill her husband Jason. Somebody tries to put blame on her! Will she get away this time or will she be stricken back by karma for her past misdemeanors?
I enjoyed to be inside Ruby’s mind and watch events from her perspective! I loved her and Roman’s interesting friendship. The ending was good but I expected something smarter and twistier. It was still okay!
I loved the creative writing style and looking forward to read more works of the author in near future!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group/ G. P. Putnam’s Sons for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
The authors who are too brilliant have special gift to make us love the killers. We loved a sociopath ( we felt sorry who turned into a miserable Lumberjack and feel happy he returned back after 8 years: you know who I am talking about) and we learned to love a stalker who was once upon a time gossip girl!
This time talented Ms. Rotchild made us love a lady killer ! Actually she’s some kind of social defender fighting against dirty scumbags like bullies, child molesters! Even though she committed her first crime at the age of five, she still had good intentions like saving her sister from vicious bully who tried to steal her innocence!
Ruby is smart, emotional, observant , caring. She’s a therapist: she already studied herself so don’t think she’s sociopath! She actually feels a lot! She has both empathy and sympathy! She has long lasting friendships and relationships. She is compassionate. And she’s extremely kind to animals but unfortunately detective Keith Jackson who is sweating and questioning her at the interrogation room of the police station has no idea about her true identity!
She killed three times and got away with it. But now she gets interrogated for the crime she didn’t commit! She didn’t kill her husband Jason. Somebody tries to put blame on her! Will she get away this time or will she be stricken back by karma for her past misdemeanors?
I enjoyed to be inside Ruby’s mind and watch events from her perspective! I loved her and Roman’s interesting friendship. The ending was good but I expected something smarter and twistier. It was still okay!
I loved the creative writing style and looking forward to read more works of the author in near future!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group/ G. P. Putnam’s Sons for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Read
April 13, 2022DNF at 50% -No rating
This sounded too much like it was a cross between Roz Nay’s “Our Little Secret” (the accused’s story unfolding in the interrogation room of a Police station) and Bella Mackie’s “How To Kill Your Family” (without the snark) so, I was hesitant to request it.
But after reading some rave reviews, I wanted to give it a try!
Unfortunately, it was not for me!!
Often, serial killers are portrayed in books as getting their taste for killing by starting with small animals. Authors use this in books to demonstrate that a character is a Sociopath, who lacks remorse or empathy.
This author uses Ruby’s empathy towards animals to prove that although she has killed before-three times to be exact-that she isn’t a Sociopath!
The problem is that for an animal lover like me-you still have to endure reading some upsetting animal scenes, so you can witness Ruby’s anguish and despair when she rescues them.
NO Thanks! NOT entertaining!
A hurt bird, an abused kitten, and then a heartbreaking scene with a dog at 50%, convinced me to set this book aside and not force myself to push through this story, which I wasn’t engaged with, regardless.
Others have enjoyed this one-so be sure to read a sample of reviews!
This sounded too much like it was a cross between Roz Nay’s “Our Little Secret” (the accused’s story unfolding in the interrogation room of a Police station) and Bella Mackie’s “How To Kill Your Family” (without the snark) so, I was hesitant to request it.
But after reading some rave reviews, I wanted to give it a try!
Unfortunately, it was not for me!!
Often, serial killers are portrayed in books as getting their taste for killing by starting with small animals. Authors use this in books to demonstrate that a character is a Sociopath, who lacks remorse or empathy.
This author uses Ruby’s empathy towards animals to prove that although she has killed before-three times to be exact-that she isn’t a Sociopath!
The problem is that for an animal lover like me-you still have to endure reading some upsetting animal scenes, so you can witness Ruby’s anguish and despair when she rescues them.
NO Thanks! NOT entertaining!
A hurt bird, an abused kitten, and then a heartbreaking scene with a dog at 50%, convinced me to set this book aside and not force myself to push through this story, which I wasn’t engaged with, regardless.
Others have enjoyed this one-so be sure to read a sample of reviews!
April 23, 2022
I liked it!
This is the story of Ruby, who might or might not have had a hand in a number of deaths throughout her life. But she's not a serial killer--she loves animals, and she's not a sociopath--she loves her family and friends. However there are some unexplained deaths that have occurred around her and the police want to get to the bottom of them.
Told in chapters that alternate between the past and the present, the reader gets a sense of who Ruby is and who she isn't. I loved her as a character. I was rooting for her throughout, as the author has created a truly likable character that we want to see succeed, even if she did what they are accusing her of doing.
This is a truly stellar fiction debut, I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next. I was drawn into the writing and didn't want to put the book down until the end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
This is the story of Ruby, who might or might not have had a hand in a number of deaths throughout her life. But she's not a serial killer--she loves animals, and she's not a sociopath--she loves her family and friends. However there are some unexplained deaths that have occurred around her and the police want to get to the bottom of them.
Told in chapters that alternate between the past and the present, the reader gets a sense of who Ruby is and who she isn't. I loved her as a character. I was rooting for her throughout, as the author has created a truly likable character that we want to see succeed, even if she did what they are accusing her of doing.
This is a truly stellar fiction debut, I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next. I was drawn into the writing and didn't want to put the book down until the end.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
April 14, 2022
Loved this one!!!
Ruby is a successful therapist. Ruby is happily married to Jason. Ruby is also a murderer.
Here's the thing though: She is NOT a sociopath. Not at all. The people she *ahem* killed were all deserving of their fates. She just helped to tip the scales.
Her husband Jason has Type 1 diabetes and suffers an untimely death while sleeping by Ruby's side. Her world is turned upside down and she's utterly devastated but even more so when a detective comes knocking accusing her of his murder. Not only that but he seems to know a lot about Ruby's past and the fact that she has been conveniently present at three other deaths over the course of her lifetime. What are the chances of that happening? You'll have to read this to find out.
What a hoot Ruby is with her Type A personality. I loved her humor and I think that is going to be a huge factor in whether or not you enjoy this book. Here are some highlights I made:
"So that day on the beach, murder became another skill added to my toolbox. And once I saw what an effective tool it was I kept it handy."
"After his watery demise, I learned about a common subset of hypocrisy. An agreed-upon artifice that once someone is dead, they magically become perfect in the eyes of the living. Dead children and dead adults alike. They take on a new form. Like in the right light, an oil slick in the ugliest of public parking lots turns into a magical mini rainbow. "Don't speak ill of the dead," people say. But why? It's as good a time as any to be honest. Maybe even the best time."
"And so I grew up. As normal as one can in a city as insane as Miami, in an era as schizophrenic as the 1990's, with parents as emotionally invested as landlords. I had killed one boy, one time. It wasn't like I was an out-of-control homicidal maniac."
"People were always exclaiming, "I could kill you right now!" or "I want to fucking kill her!" or the classic joke, "If I tell you, I'll have to kill you," and on and on and on. I heard something like that said at least once a week, and I nodded and smiled and understood, like a well-adjusted non-homicidal person."
I smiled, I giggled, and I kept flipping those pages like any non-homicidal maniac would do. Sascha Rothchild I am now a FAN! Many thanks to my friend Catherine for putting this on my radar. What a shame it would have been to miss this one! 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group for my complimentary copy.
Ruby is a successful therapist. Ruby is happily married to Jason. Ruby is also a murderer.
Here's the thing though: She is NOT a sociopath. Not at all. The people she *ahem* killed were all deserving of their fates. She just helped to tip the scales.
Her husband Jason has Type 1 diabetes and suffers an untimely death while sleeping by Ruby's side. Her world is turned upside down and she's utterly devastated but even more so when a detective comes knocking accusing her of his murder. Not only that but he seems to know a lot about Ruby's past and the fact that she has been conveniently present at three other deaths over the course of her lifetime. What are the chances of that happening? You'll have to read this to find out.
What a hoot Ruby is with her Type A personality. I loved her humor and I think that is going to be a huge factor in whether or not you enjoy this book. Here are some highlights I made:
"So that day on the beach, murder became another skill added to my toolbox. And once I saw what an effective tool it was I kept it handy."
"After his watery demise, I learned about a common subset of hypocrisy. An agreed-upon artifice that once someone is dead, they magically become perfect in the eyes of the living. Dead children and dead adults alike. They take on a new form. Like in the right light, an oil slick in the ugliest of public parking lots turns into a magical mini rainbow. "Don't speak ill of the dead," people say. But why? It's as good a time as any to be honest. Maybe even the best time."
"And so I grew up. As normal as one can in a city as insane as Miami, in an era as schizophrenic as the 1990's, with parents as emotionally invested as landlords. I had killed one boy, one time. It wasn't like I was an out-of-control homicidal maniac."
"People were always exclaiming, "I could kill you right now!" or "I want to fucking kill her!" or the classic joke, "If I tell you, I'll have to kill you," and on and on and on. I heard something like that said at least once a week, and I nodded and smiled and understood, like a well-adjusted non-homicidal person."
I smiled, I giggled, and I kept flipping those pages like any non-homicidal maniac would do. Sascha Rothchild I am now a FAN! Many thanks to my friend Catherine for putting this on my radar. What a shame it would have been to miss this one! 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group for my complimentary copy.
December 31, 2022
Review/Vlog: https://youtu.be/ONtCTarlJKs
'Diabetes Noir' is not only my life's genre but also my new favorite trope. I need MORE. Not only did Rothchild do what so few have attempted by representing a chronic illness but she did it with compassion and experience. I have type 1 diabetes and I can tell you that she NAILED it. I can't begin to thank her enough for putting this content into the world.
The story itself is good but not great. The writing in the beginning was very livejournal/gloomy tumblr post. But it got better quickly.
This isn't a mystery/thriller. It's a character study of a woman who takes the opportunity presented to her to dispel the world of people she deems to be a menace. It's an interesting look at the difference of premeditated-murder and 'welp, they're already drowning; why don't I just help God along and hold them down to make sure it takes?'.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the relationship between Roman and Ruby. It's asexual without losing its intensity or depth. I love how Rothchild wrote a platonic relationship as the heart of the story and it wasn't over shadowed by sex or romance. Even after many difficulties, the love remained and I really appreciated that.
Here are some of the diabetes related quotes that really stood out to me.
"It's a constant balancing act. Every flight of stairs, every common cold, every extra bite of mashed potatoes has to be accounted for to keep a type 1's blood sugar at a healthy level."
"I realized, with a bit of sadness for Jason, that being a healthy type 1 diabetic took the same willpower, control, and maintenance as being a professional athlete does, but just to be average."
"He said, 'Let me start by offering my condolences. My grandpa had type 2 diabetes. He had his foot amputated toward the end.' I had heard a variation of this dozens of times. People often tried to connect in the most misguided ways."
'Diabetes Noir' is not only my life's genre but also my new favorite trope. I need MORE. Not only did Rothchild do what so few have attempted by representing a chronic illness but she did it with compassion and experience. I have type 1 diabetes and I can tell you that she NAILED it. I can't begin to thank her enough for putting this content into the world.
The story itself is good but not great. The writing in the beginning was very livejournal/gloomy tumblr post. But it got better quickly.
This isn't a mystery/thriller. It's a character study of a woman who takes the opportunity presented to her to dispel the world of people she deems to be a menace. It's an interesting look at the difference of premeditated-murder and 'welp, they're already drowning; why don't I just help God along and hold them down to make sure it takes?'.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the relationship between Roman and Ruby. It's asexual without losing its intensity or depth. I love how Rothchild wrote a platonic relationship as the heart of the story and it wasn't over shadowed by sex or romance. Even after many difficulties, the love remained and I really appreciated that.
Here are some of the diabetes related quotes that really stood out to me.
"It's a constant balancing act. Every flight of stairs, every common cold, every extra bite of mashed potatoes has to be accounted for to keep a type 1's blood sugar at a healthy level."
"I realized, with a bit of sadness for Jason, that being a healthy type 1 diabetic took the same willpower, control, and maintenance as being a professional athlete does, but just to be average."
"He said, 'Let me start by offering my condolences. My grandpa had type 2 diabetes. He had his foot amputated toward the end.' I had heard a variation of this dozens of times. People often tried to connect in the most misguided ways."
Shelved as 'read-audiobooks'
February 15, 2023 Audiobook rating: Finished it
Performance: 3/5 | Plot: plz | Ending: hallelujah
Alright folks... let's get into it. I DNFed the eyeball read backaday after finding out as a 5 yr old she had committed premeditated murder. But, I've heard such good things about this I decided to revisit with my earholes, since they tend to be less fussy. WELP. They be fussin!!!
First of all, I wouldn't call this a thriller. And that's fine. There's tons of books that are marketed incorrectly to grab $$$. This was just one long ass monologue about how Ruby is the best, #1, top diggity dog, etc. There's no mystery afoot. It's almost like reading a memoir... from a celebrity you absolutely detest.
Ruby is simply insufferable. Even as a passive listen while I pottered about, there were still some wild ass lines that penetrated my earlobes and had me going PAUSE???? Some of the things that stood out (not in a good way) was Ruby constantly reminding us how S-M-R-T (not a typo) she is. At one point, she's scamming on some taken mans and asked "where's your main hoe at?". He responds with "she has a big test she's cramming for" and all Ruby can think about is how cramming seems like such a foreign concept because she never has to study due to her #bigbrainenergy yet she always gets As! At Yale no less! Here's your cookie, but you're still a side bish.
Other lowlights include Ruby referring to herself as a type 3 diabetic because she lives with a type 1 diabetic............... And her untrained therapy dog sitting in with her patients. This isn't as wild as that one lady ordering her dog a support dog vest in another book I read, but it's still bold af LOL.
Anyways, safe to say I did not like this. Ruby's constant judgement of others is beyond hilariously hypocritical considering she's a whole ass serial killer. And this isn't done in a tongue in cheek way. She honestly thinks she has some kind of moral high-ground on others. When she says it's her kindness that saved her life I literally wanted to rip my headphones off and frisbee them into outer space. You can't be serious!!!!
This is the first audiobook fail I had where the listen was just as bad – probably worse tbh – than the physical book. Yikes on multiple bikes.
Performance: 3/5 | Plot: plz | Ending: hallelujah
Alright folks... let's get into it. I DNFed the eyeball read backaday after finding out as a 5 yr old she had committed premeditated murder. But, I've heard such good things about this I decided to revisit with my earholes, since they tend to be less fussy. WELP. They be fussin!!!
First of all, I wouldn't call this a thriller. And that's fine. There's tons of books that are marketed incorrectly to grab $$$. This was just one long ass monologue about how Ruby is the best, #1, top diggity dog, etc. There's no mystery afoot. It's almost like reading a memoir... from a celebrity you absolutely detest.
Ruby is simply insufferable. Even as a passive listen while I pottered about, there were still some wild ass lines that penetrated my earlobes and had me going PAUSE???? Some of the things that stood out (not in a good way) was Ruby constantly reminding us how S-M-R-T (not a typo) she is. At one point, she's scamming on some taken mans and asked "where's your main hoe at?". He responds with "she has a big test she's cramming for" and all Ruby can think about is how cramming seems like such a foreign concept because she never has to study due to her #bigbrainenergy yet she always gets As! At Yale no less! Here's your cookie, but you're still a side bish.
Other lowlights include Ruby referring to herself as a type 3 diabetic because she lives with a type 1 diabetic............... And her untrained therapy dog sitting in with her patients. This isn't as wild as that one lady ordering her dog a support dog vest in another book I read, but it's still bold af LOL.
Anyways, safe to say I did not like this. Ruby's constant judgement of others is beyond hilariously hypocritical considering she's a whole ass serial killer. And this isn't done in a tongue in cheek way. She honestly thinks she has some kind of moral high-ground on others. When she says it's her kindness that saved her life I literally wanted to rip my headphones off and frisbee them into outer space. You can't be serious!!!!
This is the first audiobook fail I had where the listen was just as bad – probably worse tbh – than the physical book. Yikes on multiple bikes.
January 5, 2023
I chose this novel based upon a NYT review of delightful murder mysteries of 2022. The jacket cover states that the protagonist, Ruby, is the most likable murderess you will ever meet. That’s all I needed to choose “Blood Sugar” by Sascha Rothchild.
What I enjoyed is Rothchild’s characterization of our murderess, Ruby. Most murder mysteries revolve around good versus evil. In “Blood Sugar”, those lines are grayer.
From the start of the novel, in which Ruby, age 5 has a hand in (murders?) a fellow 7 year-old classmate’s drowning. There happens to be two more deaths that occur in the immediate vicinity of Ruby during her 30 year lifetime. When Ruby’s beloved husband dies in bed, her malicious mother-in-law accuses her of murder. Once a magnifying glass is shown upon Ruby, all these obscure deaths appear suspicious.
Ruby narrates the story, so we do learn of the situations in which the departed were found dead. Is Ruby guilty of first-degree murder? Or is she a sociopath, killing without remorse. Ruby even chose psychology in university to gain insight into her feelings.
Ruby is complex. The reader is left pondering the morality of Ruby. She’s just so darn likeable, yet she’s a bit unsettling….. This is a fun read!
I listened the Audible audio, narrated by Allyson Ryan. She did a fantastic job!
What I enjoyed is Rothchild’s characterization of our murderess, Ruby. Most murder mysteries revolve around good versus evil. In “Blood Sugar”, those lines are grayer.
From the start of the novel, in which Ruby, age 5 has a hand in (murders?) a fellow 7 year-old classmate’s drowning. There happens to be two more deaths that occur in the immediate vicinity of Ruby during her 30 year lifetime. When Ruby’s beloved husband dies in bed, her malicious mother-in-law accuses her of murder. Once a magnifying glass is shown upon Ruby, all these obscure deaths appear suspicious.
Ruby narrates the story, so we do learn of the situations in which the departed were found dead. Is Ruby guilty of first-degree murder? Or is she a sociopath, killing without remorse. Ruby even chose psychology in university to gain insight into her feelings.
Ruby is complex. The reader is left pondering the morality of Ruby. She’s just so darn likeable, yet she’s a bit unsettling….. This is a fun read!
I listened the Audible audio, narrated by Allyson Ryan. She did a fantastic job!
May 5, 2022
Hey…just because I happened to kill a few people (allegedly)😉 ...that doesn’t make me a serial killer or anything, Come on!
Umm….all right Ruby! You just keep telling yourself that.😇
Extremely entertaining! Far from your run-of- the mill thrillers.
Ruby is presently being questioned by police for the untimely death of her husband. But she loved him. Why would she kill him? But can anyone possibly believe anything she says? After all, let’s get real here, she does have a slightly sketchy past!
I loved Ruby! She was one of the most fascinating sociopaths (although she doesn’t consider herself one) that I’ve come across. I loved her voice and her quirky behaviors.( Murders not included!). None the less, she is indeed a very, shall we say, interesting woman!
A debut from a very talented new author in the thriller scene. Cannot wait to see what she turns up next!
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways
Umm….all right Ruby! You just keep telling yourself that.😇
Extremely entertaining! Far from your run-of- the mill thrillers.
Ruby is presently being questioned by police for the untimely death of her husband. But she loved him. Why would she kill him? But can anyone possibly believe anything she says? After all, let’s get real here, she does have a slightly sketchy past!
I loved Ruby! She was one of the most fascinating sociopaths (although she doesn’t consider herself one) that I’ve come across. I loved her voice and her quirky behaviors.( Murders not included!). None the less, she is indeed a very, shall we say, interesting woman!
A debut from a very talented new author in the thriller scene. Cannot wait to see what she turns up next!
Thank you to Goodreads Giveaways
June 4, 2024
Here is one for the books!
You are accused of murdering your husband. But this is the only murder YOU didn’t commit! She actually committed three. How do you prove your innocence of the one – and, while we are at it – the other three?
And how do we as readers decide we want to root for a murderer character?
Surprisingly we do.
This was one of those books that I could not put down.
The pages turned faster than I could read them, and Ruby’s case (the murderer) was compelling.
I would be interested to hear what you think.
You are accused of murdering your husband. But this is the only murder YOU didn’t commit! She actually committed three. How do you prove your innocence of the one – and, while we are at it – the other three?
And how do we as readers decide we want to root for a murderer character?
Surprisingly we do.
This was one of those books that I could not put down.
The pages turned faster than I could read them, and Ruby’s case (the murderer) was compelling.
I would be interested to hear what you think.
April 22, 2023
OMGGG!!! If you are a THRILLER LOVER you need this book in your life!!! This is my kind of thriller!! 😍 Happy paperback pub day gorgeous!!! 🥳🥳🥳 I grabbed my sweeet hardcover copy when @blondethrillerbooklover told me that she loved it. 🍭 🍬 Where do I begin?? This seriously has everything I look 👀 for in a thriller…
First off let’s talk about my girl Ruby….she swears she is not a sociopath …..umm well you did kill a couple people…but okay girl…🤷♀️… BUT my girl Ruby loves animals… 🐕 🐈… her sister…her husband…no matter what the cops 👮♀️ say… 😂… LOOK 👀 I had no idea if she killed her husband or not…🤷♀️…but this was entertaining as hell!
😂 Why did I love it sooo much??
✅ Crazy snarky inner Ruby voice
✅ A gritty undertone of the wild life in Miami 🥂🍸🍹
✅Ruby is a therapist 😳
✅ Fast paced 🏃♀️
✅Twisted AF 🤨😏😳🤯🤯🤯🤐
✅ SO much FUN!! 😉
Okay… Okay.. have I sold you yet?? I love ❤️ when I connect with a thriller like this one… and NO I am not a sociopath 😂😳 However......I can't recommend this book enough!!
First off let’s talk about my girl Ruby….she swears she is not a sociopath …..umm well you did kill a couple people…but okay girl…🤷♀️… BUT my girl Ruby loves animals… 🐕 🐈… her sister…her husband…no matter what the cops 👮♀️ say… 😂… LOOK 👀 I had no idea if she killed her husband or not…🤷♀️…but this was entertaining as hell!
😂 Why did I love it sooo much??
✅ Crazy snarky inner Ruby voice
✅ A gritty undertone of the wild life in Miami 🥂🍸🍹
✅Ruby is a therapist 😳
✅ Fast paced 🏃♀️
✅Twisted AF 🤨😏😳🤯🤯🤯🤐
✅ SO much FUN!! 😉
Okay… Okay.. have I sold you yet?? I love ❤️ when I connect with a thriller like this one… and NO I am not a sociopath 😂😳 However......I can't recommend this book enough!!
December 28, 2022
So, my friends, I read this. Quickly, because I was interested but busy, and was on a library deadline (I had originally ordered it for my mom). Imagine my surprise when I was going through my 'to read sooner' list and discovering it was still there (don't bother raising your hand if you are completely unsurprised by this). I am positive I started a review for this. Or did I just tell someone about it? Well, regardless; here's what I recall, six months later. If you know me, you'll know that's a feat in and of itself, probably a four-star worthy one. What I remember:
I liked it. It cold opens in a police station interview, I think, and quickly goes back in time to the protagonist, Ruby's, childhood memories of when she was on a beach vacation with her family. Back to the police interview, and then to memories as a teenager. It follows this format for one more episode until the timelines converge, then works towards a satisfying resolution.
I thought the deceptively straightforward writing served the complexity of the story and the back-and-forth timeline well. I did have a significant quibble with the plot, namely the event that happened on the beach as a child I just felt like it didn't quite square with human development, if you know what I mean. Could such a thing ever really happen? And, okay, say it did, can we draw the conclusions the author had Ruby draw from it and still remain objectively normal? I'd need a stronger grasp on child psychology to understand my hesitancy. It didn't push me past the believability threshold.
Aside from that, I did enjoy it. Actually, now that I'm writing this, I think perhaps I wanted to go back and read it with more attention to detail. But one thing and another happened, as usual, and I never did. Well, you know. Take that as a recommendation.
Three and a half fuzzy stars, rounding up because I actually remembered it.
I liked it. It cold opens in a police station interview, I think, and quickly goes back in time to the protagonist, Ruby's, childhood memories of when she was on a beach vacation with her family. Back to the police interview, and then to memories as a teenager. It follows this format for one more episode until the timelines converge, then works towards a satisfying resolution.
I thought the deceptively straightforward writing served the complexity of the story and the back-and-forth timeline well. I did have a significant quibble with the plot, namely the event that happened on the beach as a child I just felt like it didn't quite square with human development, if you know what I mean. Could such a thing ever really happen? And, okay, say it did, can we draw the conclusions the author had Ruby draw from it and still remain objectively normal? I'd need a stronger grasp on child psychology to understand my hesitancy. It didn't push me past the believability threshold.
Aside from that, I did enjoy it. Actually, now that I'm writing this, I think perhaps I wanted to go back and read it with more attention to detail. But one thing and another happened, as usual, and I never did. Well, you know. Take that as a recommendation.
Three and a half fuzzy stars, rounding up because I actually remembered it.
February 12, 2023
Is Ruby Simon a vigilante killer with a heart of gold? A narcissistic psychopath? Or, does she just have a sweet tooth for murder?
See, Ruby has a bit of a checkered history with some skeletons in her closet — okay, three to be exact. Bodies keep piling up around her.
Extremely self-aware (a decade of psychotherapy), Type A personality — hyper organized and methodical — devoted pet mama, highly educated and intelligent, Ruby has some morally ambiguous justifications for her, um, deadly behavior.
And it’s those justifications that can turn a reader’s moral compass on its head, which is why I suspect Blood Sugar is likely to be one of those polarizing love-it-or-hate-it kind of books.
Wherever you may fall on that continuum, there’s lots to dissect here, lending to some spirited book club discussions for sure.
Serial killer thriller Blood Sugar is the debut novel from Emmy-winning screenwriter and television producer Sascha Rothchild.
Choosing to indulge may cause a spike in blood pressure, but not blood sugar.
See, Ruby has a bit of a checkered history with some skeletons in her closet — okay, three to be exact. Bodies keep piling up around her.
Extremely self-aware (a decade of psychotherapy), Type A personality — hyper organized and methodical — devoted pet mama, highly educated and intelligent, Ruby has some morally ambiguous justifications for her, um, deadly behavior.
And it’s those justifications that can turn a reader’s moral compass on its head, which is why I suspect Blood Sugar is likely to be one of those polarizing love-it-or-hate-it kind of books.
Wherever you may fall on that continuum, there’s lots to dissect here, lending to some spirited book club discussions for sure.
Serial killer thriller Blood Sugar is the debut novel from Emmy-winning screenwriter and television producer Sascha Rothchild.
Choosing to indulge may cause a spike in blood pressure, but not blood sugar.
April 20, 2022
5 stars
Thank you Penguin Publishing Group & NG for this ARC! This will be published April 19th, 2022.
Although she is in fact a murderer—she didn't kill her husband! I was hooked from the get-go, flipping through the pages faster than ever.
Unlike most killers, Ruby loves, sympathizes, experiences grief, and acknowledges all aspects of life and the chaos it puts people through. However, she very much dislikes bad, grouchy, evil people who diminish and steal people's sunshine and happiness away through torment. She has killed three people with these characteristics, starting at age five. Attending university for psychology, Ruby became a thriving therapist, working through her clientele's daily struggles, forming strong relationships, and would never hurt a hair or feather on an animal. She can't be a psychopath!
The story begins with the accounts of Ruby's first murder then swiftly moving us to the interrogation room where the detective is accusing her or rather questioning her of murdering her husband. She didn't kill Jason, and that is laughable at best. She can't think of a single reason as to why she would—she was deeply in love with him. From there, we follow along through the interrogation while Ruby recounts all of her past murders and the life events surrounding them. She knows that she isn't a saint, but is she in the clear enough to be proven innocent of a crime she didn't commit? That's when all the past deaths within her vicinity start to be questioned and the struggle to keep cool, stay undetected, and clear her name begins.
Incredible, gripping, and exceedingly entertaining debut by Rothchild. Couldn't recommend this read anymore!
Thank you Penguin Publishing Group & NG for this ARC! This will be published April 19th, 2022.
Although she is in fact a murderer—she didn't kill her husband! I was hooked from the get-go, flipping through the pages faster than ever.
Unlike most killers, Ruby loves, sympathizes, experiences grief, and acknowledges all aspects of life and the chaos it puts people through. However, she very much dislikes bad, grouchy, evil people who diminish and steal people's sunshine and happiness away through torment. She has killed three people with these characteristics, starting at age five. Attending university for psychology, Ruby became a thriving therapist, working through her clientele's daily struggles, forming strong relationships, and would never hurt a hair or feather on an animal. She can't be a psychopath!
The story begins with the accounts of Ruby's first murder then swiftly moving us to the interrogation room where the detective is accusing her or rather questioning her of murdering her husband. She didn't kill Jason, and that is laughable at best. She can't think of a single reason as to why she would—she was deeply in love with him. From there, we follow along through the interrogation while Ruby recounts all of her past murders and the life events surrounding them. She knows that she isn't a saint, but is she in the clear enough to be proven innocent of a crime she didn't commit? That's when all the past deaths within her vicinity start to be questioned and the struggle to keep cool, stay undetected, and clear her name begins.
Incredible, gripping, and exceedingly entertaining debut by Rothchild. Couldn't recommend this read anymore!
February 5, 2023
(4.5 stars). I’m conflicted as to what type of person I am after reading this story, because although our main character Ruby did some bad things (specifically murder), I couldn’t help but root for her. 🤷🏻♀️
Like Ruby, I have a Type A personality. It’s not that I like things done a certain way, I just like them done the right way! Ruby knows all about this… 😏
Blood Sugar tells the story of Ruby Simon. In fact, it almost reads like a personal diary of Ruby’s. We learn of her childhood, teenage, and adult years. Ruby also goes into detail about the previous murders she committed and why. Were they wrong? Sure, they were. Were they justified? Well, we are not the judge here to decide…
Ruby was very smart growing up, and due to a dictionary kept in the family dining room she was able to learn and pick up on big words at a very young age. One of the first words of many that stuck in her mind was hypocrisy- “a pretense of having a virtuous character that one does not really possess”. “Acting one way but expecting others to act a different way. Doling out rules they themselves pretend to follow but don’t”.
So at a young age, Ruby was able to spot out a hypocrite and read the room pretty good…
There were some other great points (and learning experiences) in this book. Ruby did not like or get along with her mother-in-law, Gertrude- and rightfully so. In describing Gertrude she went into detail about the difference between the Pit Bull vs. Cobra psychology method. That was a real eye opener, and it scared me quite a bit because I know a few Cobra’s, and it is scary.
Ruby ends up being charged with her husband’s death. The one murder she is innocent of. Can her lawyer help her? Will the public believe her or shun her? Read this page turner of a book and find out!
I highly recommend reading this book, as it is entertaining and enjoyable. While murder may not always be the answer, Ruby also knows that kindness can go a long way too. 😉
Like Ruby, I have a Type A personality. It’s not that I like things done a certain way, I just like them done the right way! Ruby knows all about this… 😏
Blood Sugar tells the story of Ruby Simon. In fact, it almost reads like a personal diary of Ruby’s. We learn of her childhood, teenage, and adult years. Ruby also goes into detail about the previous murders she committed and why. Were they wrong? Sure, they were. Were they justified? Well, we are not the judge here to decide…
Ruby was very smart growing up, and due to a dictionary kept in the family dining room she was able to learn and pick up on big words at a very young age. One of the first words of many that stuck in her mind was hypocrisy- “a pretense of having a virtuous character that one does not really possess”. “Acting one way but expecting others to act a different way. Doling out rules they themselves pretend to follow but don’t”.
So at a young age, Ruby was able to spot out a hypocrite and read the room pretty good…
There were some other great points (and learning experiences) in this book. Ruby did not like or get along with her mother-in-law, Gertrude- and rightfully so. In describing Gertrude she went into detail about the difference between the Pit Bull vs. Cobra psychology method. That was a real eye opener, and it scared me quite a bit because I know a few Cobra’s, and it is scary.
Ruby ends up being charged with her husband’s death. The one murder she is innocent of. Can her lawyer help her? Will the public believe her or shun her? Read this page turner of a book and find out!
I highly recommend reading this book, as it is entertaining and enjoyable. While murder may not always be the answer, Ruby also knows that kindness can go a long way too. 😉
May 20, 2022
Ruby Simon is a murderer.
In fact, she has murdered many times and gotten away with it.
No one knows her secrets until her husband tragically passes away from Type 1 Diabetes.
But, she didn’t kill him.
So then why is she being accused of his murder?
This is a fascinating story with true insight into the mind of a female serial killer. It is brilliantly plotted and the storytelling is fantastic. Ruby is extremely likable, which allows the reader to sympathize with her instead of viewing her as the enemy. It is a very unique and original premise containing an unusual spin on the serial killer motif.
Could a psychologist really be a serial killer?
Yes, yes she can.
Sascha Rothchild flawlessly creates a female protagonist who does bad things, but is also endearing to the reader. While I have read books about female serial killers before, they did not grip me like this one did. For example, Layne Fargo’s They Never Learn contains a similar premise, but is written with a less believable and more dangerous agenda.
You will also meet some very lovable characters named Mr. Cat and Kangaroo!
The audiobook, read by Allyson Ryan, is unputdownable. She does a fantastic job making Ruby’s character come to life. I highly recommend listening to this one!
It’s difficult to believe that this is Rothchild’s first book, as it is so well-crafted. However, as a talented and well-accomplished TV and screen writer, it should be no surprise. I can’t wait to read more from her!
4.5/5 stars rounded down
In fact, she has murdered many times and gotten away with it.
No one knows her secrets until her husband tragically passes away from Type 1 Diabetes.
But, she didn’t kill him.
So then why is she being accused of his murder?
This is a fascinating story with true insight into the mind of a female serial killer. It is brilliantly plotted and the storytelling is fantastic. Ruby is extremely likable, which allows the reader to sympathize with her instead of viewing her as the enemy. It is a very unique and original premise containing an unusual spin on the serial killer motif.
Could a psychologist really be a serial killer?
Yes, yes she can.
Sascha Rothchild flawlessly creates a female protagonist who does bad things, but is also endearing to the reader. While I have read books about female serial killers before, they did not grip me like this one did. For example, Layne Fargo’s They Never Learn contains a similar premise, but is written with a less believable and more dangerous agenda.
You will also meet some very lovable characters named Mr. Cat and Kangaroo!
The audiobook, read by Allyson Ryan, is unputdownable. She does a fantastic job making Ruby’s character come to life. I highly recommend listening to this one!
It’s difficult to believe that this is Rothchild’s first book, as it is so well-crafted. However, as a talented and well-accomplished TV and screen writer, it should be no surprise. I can’t wait to read more from her!
4.5/5 stars rounded down
May 10, 2022
Been there, read that.
This "utterly delicious debut thriller" about a murderer accused of murdering her husband (a murder that she did not commit) lacked a storyline that was new, different, and engaging.
Unfortunately, the "sugar" that I was craving in "Blood Sugar", never seemed to materialize.
After the first two chapters, the storyline soured with repetitive and unrealistic text.
"How to Kill Your Family" by Bella Macka featured an almost identical storyline/premise.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Bella Macka's "How to Kill Your Family" was fast-paced and replete with wit and "utterly delicious" thrills and ironies.
"They Never Learn" by Layne Fargo is another example of a much, much, much better book about a female protagonist serial murderer.
I listened to the audiobook and Allyson Ryan did an amazing job with the narration. Without Allyson Ryan, this book would have been a DNF for me.
2.5 stars.
This "utterly delicious debut thriller" about a murderer accused of murdering her husband (a murder that she did not commit) lacked a storyline that was new, different, and engaging.
Unfortunately, the "sugar" that I was craving in "Blood Sugar", never seemed to materialize.
After the first two chapters, the storyline soured with repetitive and unrealistic text.
"How to Kill Your Family" by Bella Macka featured an almost identical storyline/premise.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Bella Macka's "How to Kill Your Family" was fast-paced and replete with wit and "utterly delicious" thrills and ironies.
"They Never Learn" by Layne Fargo is another example of a much, much, much better book about a female protagonist serial murderer.
I listened to the audiobook and Allyson Ryan did an amazing job with the narration. Without Allyson Ryan, this book would have been a DNF for me.
2.5 stars.
January 25, 2022
Murder is a handy tool for Ruby to keep in her toolbox, given she’s killed three people and she’s only 30. After her husband is murdered, which is the one murder she honestly didn’t commit, she must convince the Miami PD she’s innocent. They want to lock her up and throw away the key as Ruby’s questionable past lands her in a serious bind.
Blood Sugar offers a delightful sugar rush as Ruby’s intriguing character is fully fleshed out, sharing her reasonable opinions on why she’s behaved like a serial killer since she was a young child. She certainly doesn’t fit the definition of a psychopath or even a sociopath because she feels sympathy, has long-lasting relationships, cares for animals, and works as a therapist. Though, has Ruby truly stopped her murderous ways or is she just fooling everyone?
Blood Sugar is a dazzling debut, surprising the reader with a raw and honest look at a woman who just happens to be a murderer as well. This book delivers an abundance of witty dry humor, a murderous main character you root for, and the one murder you hope she didn’t commit all wrapped up in a candy coating of snappy writing you’ll devour.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Blood Sugar offers a delightful sugar rush as Ruby’s intriguing character is fully fleshed out, sharing her reasonable opinions on why she’s behaved like a serial killer since she was a young child. She certainly doesn’t fit the definition of a psychopath or even a sociopath because she feels sympathy, has long-lasting relationships, cares for animals, and works as a therapist. Though, has Ruby truly stopped her murderous ways or is she just fooling everyone?
Blood Sugar is a dazzling debut, surprising the reader with a raw and honest look at a woman who just happens to be a murderer as well. This book delivers an abundance of witty dry humor, a murderous main character you root for, and the one murder you hope she didn’t commit all wrapped up in a candy coating of snappy writing you’ll devour.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Penguin Publishing Group for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 28, 2022
As Ruby Simon sits in the police department interrogation room being accused of murdering her husband Jason of which she is truly devastated and appalled that anyone could possibly think she would even contemplate killing the only man she had ever loved so deeply and completely she reflects on the deaths of three others that were never considered possible murders until today in this cold and empty room where Ruby has no place to run or hide. Ruby is not a sociopath or a psychopath but she is a wonderful therapist with a Type A personality and would never leave any stone unturned in her life. Ruby is an emotional, loving, sympathetic, empathetic and caring person so why do the police think she killed her husband and had a hand in the deaths of those three other people. Ruby is a very likeable person but she does have several skeletons in her closet that she can't ever, ever open any of those closet doors because the world would never understand especially the detective who thinks he knows Ruby's secrets.
I can't get over how much I enjoyed this book and the character of Ruby Simon. She is one of the most likeable characters I have met in a long, long time. So if Ruby really was a murderers then how could I feel this way about her especially when I abhor murderers. Ruby is definitely someone I would want to have as a friend or a neighbor and especially as a therapist for her empathetic nature and soulful insights, so how could Ruby possibly be a cold blooded killer. Is she or isn't she? Sascha Rothschild has created one of the best and unique characters that I have come across and the intriguing way she wrote the story made it a very hard book to put down and when I finished it I just want to know more about what will happen in Ruby's future especially the people she feels do not deserve to live. I can't express how highly I recommend this this very entertaining book and I hope all domestic thriller lovers get a chance to read this one.
I want to thank the publisher "Penguin Publishing Group- G.P. Putnam's Sons" for the opportunity to read this intriguing story and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this intriguing story a rating of 4 1/2 STELLAR AND INNOVATIVE 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 STARS!!
I can't get over how much I enjoyed this book and the character of Ruby Simon. She is one of the most likeable characters I have met in a long, long time. So if Ruby really was a murderers then how could I feel this way about her especially when I abhor murderers. Ruby is definitely someone I would want to have as a friend or a neighbor and especially as a therapist for her empathetic nature and soulful insights, so how could Ruby possibly be a cold blooded killer. Is she or isn't she? Sascha Rothschild has created one of the best and unique characters that I have come across and the intriguing way she wrote the story made it a very hard book to put down and when I finished it I just want to know more about what will happen in Ruby's future especially the people she feels do not deserve to live. I can't express how highly I recommend this this very entertaining book and I hope all domestic thriller lovers get a chance to read this one.
I want to thank the publisher "Penguin Publishing Group- G.P. Putnam's Sons" for the opportunity to read this intriguing story and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this intriguing story a rating of 4 1/2 STELLAR AND INNOVATIVE 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 STARS!!
May 13, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me an ARC!
I am genuinely shook.
This book, right from the start, was something I knew would twist my brain. A thriller??? From the perspective of a remorseless murderer??? Who is not a sociopath??? I did not know what I was getting into, and I actually read the synopsis this time.
First of all, I have no idea how to feel about Ruby. Generally in murder thrillers, there’s a sense of hate toward the murderer. But because this was from her perspective, it was honestly impossible not to get swept up in her narrative. She was the kind of protagonist that you don’t want to be sympathetic towards but just can’t help it.
I didn’t know what kind of character she would be, and I honestly didn’t think I would care for her that much at the beginning of the book, but as I kept going I got deeper and deeper into her perspective and I was immersed in her character before the end. I don’t know how or why, and that kind of disturbs me.
The thing is, I kind of thought she was an actual sociopath at the beginning of the book. But then Ruby made it clear that she wasn’t - in fact, she was a practicing therapist who’d majored in psychology. She knew more than anyone else what the qualifications and evaluations were for that.
It really threw me off that Ruby was this compassionate, reasonable, all-around “nice” person. Aside from the fact that she’d killed three people.
I feel like this whole book was intended to be off-kilter in a way, and it was. It was disturbing. Not in a mentally scarring way, but in a way that’s more like when you can tell something is off and you don’t know what that is and it’s just in the back of your brain bothering you.
I was especially curious about signs of guilt and also wondered why in this country to feel remorse meant a lesser sentence. The crime is still the crime, so why do a criminal’s emotions after the fact play into it?
I loved the plot. I usually don’t like back-and-forth flashbacks, but the way this book incorporated them was really good and I thought it added so much more to the storytelling.
Honestly, this book posed a lot of questions. Are all murderers cold-blooded? Can killing ever be justified? Are remorse and guilt important in law trials?
This book provided this weird, questioning sense of emotional awareness. I think this is exactly what people mean when they use the phrase “psychological thriller”, because my brain is twisted. I’m just genuinely confused now.
I know literally nothing about legal proceedings, and try as I might I’ve never been able to get into a crime show. The most psychology education I’ve had is one course in school and a few online articles. I didn’t really know anything about anything in this. But this book really swept me into it, and that wasn’t something I was expecting. I went into this ARC not really knowing what to expect, but what I got was really shocking.
I could allow myself a spectrum of feelings, I could have triumphs and failures, I could make others proud and disappointed, I could have love and grief and fear, and no matter what, right or wrong, I was still a human.
April 28, 2022
So good! This debut novel by Sascha Rothchild is about Ruby, a psychologist and animal lover, who also happens to be a serial killer. When her husband dies, Ruby is accused of murdering him and must prove her innocence because despite her homicidal tendencies she is in fact innocent of this particular crime. The sympathetic serial killer plot has become a bit played out in recent years, but this was so unique in how it is was written. It reads almost like a memoir where Ruby tells us the story of how and why she has committed murders over the years and why she doesn’t feel guilt about said crimes. I found myself relating to Ruby in many ways (not sure what that says about me) and rooting for her throughout the story. This is not a conventional thriller with a whodunnit style mystery so if that’s what you’re looking for you may be disappointed. Highly recommend this one!
May 13, 2022
Sooooo I don’t know if I have the words to describe this book! I know that it’s supposed to be a thriller, but a huge part of me feels like it’s more of a character study and a slight exploration of human emotion particularly empathy. Readers will follow Ruby as she details the three times that she has committed murder. It gets interesting as Ruby is accused of committing a murder she actually didn’t do. Told in both the past and present, Rothchild creates a dynamic and complex story.
Honestly, there isn’t much that I can say about this book. It’s such a fascinating character study that I feel like there are so many ways to spoil it. What was most fascinating for me was the manner in which Rothchild crafted a character that inevitably manipulated my emotions. I mean Ruby claims that she’s not a serial killer and that she’s the same as everyone else, but she’s just been in situations where three people needed to die—-and y’all I believed her. I couldn’t believe that I was feeling sorry for her, that I was concerned for her safety and couldn’t believe how nasty people were towards her when her husband died. It’s a mess. I would feel sad for her and then I would quickly remind myself that she’s ruthlessly murdered three humans. Then I would feel bad for judging her. I would then root for her to beat the accusations of murder against her husband knowing good and well that she was capable of doing it. It was an emotional rollercoaster.
This was such a twist on what I was expecting. I don’t know how many people are going to read this as a thriller but I know that I didn’t. It definitely made me question a lot about the main character and also about me. And that’s a huge thanks to the author. Overall, this was a great and interesting read.
Honestly, there isn’t much that I can say about this book. It’s such a fascinating character study that I feel like there are so many ways to spoil it. What was most fascinating for me was the manner in which Rothchild crafted a character that inevitably manipulated my emotions. I mean Ruby claims that she’s not a serial killer and that she’s the same as everyone else, but she’s just been in situations where three people needed to die—-and y’all I believed her. I couldn’t believe that I was feeling sorry for her, that I was concerned for her safety and couldn’t believe how nasty people were towards her when her husband died. It’s a mess. I would feel sad for her and then I would quickly remind myself that she’s ruthlessly murdered three humans. Then I would feel bad for judging her. I would then root for her to beat the accusations of murder against her husband knowing good and well that she was capable of doing it. It was an emotional rollercoaster.
This was such a twist on what I was expecting. I don’t know how many people are going to read this as a thriller but I know that I didn’t. It definitely made me question a lot about the main character and also about me. And that’s a huge thanks to the author. Overall, this was a great and interesting read.
May 6, 2022
Blood Sugar has been all over my bookstagram feed for months, so I was very excited to receive this ARC to read from Hachette Australia. And we got lollipops in the package 🍭
A serial killer in Miami who kills only those who deserve it…. Sound familiar? Absolutely loved Dexter and I couldn’t help but love Ruby too. She is a therapist, helping people with their problems whilst hiding her darkest secret. She is happily married to a man that she adores and has a normal life. That is until the police come knocking… accusing her of a murder that she did not commit.
That is all I am going to say about the story, you really want to be surprised by this one. It is an addictive and fun read. This the authors debut fiction book and I look forward to seeing what comes next. Thriller readers will love this. Published in Australia April 26th. Add it to your TBR now.
A serial killer in Miami who kills only those who deserve it…. Sound familiar? Absolutely loved Dexter and I couldn’t help but love Ruby too. She is a therapist, helping people with their problems whilst hiding her darkest secret. She is happily married to a man that she adores and has a normal life. That is until the police come knocking… accusing her of a murder that she did not commit.
That is all I am going to say about the story, you really want to be surprised by this one. It is an addictive and fun read. This the authors debut fiction book and I look forward to seeing what comes next. Thriller readers will love this. Published in Australia April 26th. Add it to your TBR now.
February 21, 2024
The blurb for Blood Sugar states that Ruby is not a sociopath. She believes this because she has meaningful relationships and feels sympathy for others. But, she has killed. Three times, to be exact. So, it’s ironic that she’s now being accused of murdering her husband. The one murder she didn’t commit.
I have to hand it to Rothschild for crafting a different mystery than typical. It’s not one of those books where the main character is accused and must find the actual killer. Instead, she’s faced with a bunch of circumstantial evidence. I also appreciated that while Ruby has killed three people, she is still a likable character and one I could empathize with. She’s smart, she loves animals, she loved her husband. She’s kind. Told solely from her perspective, she thinks back on her life and the lives she did take. We also witness the investigation into her husband’s death and how her best friend and now attorney fight the charges.
The book moved at a fast pace and kept me guessing. The ending was clever and believable. And one I didn’t see coming.
This was a debut story and I’ll be anxious to see what Rothschild comes up with next. For sure, I’ll be picking it up.
It was a fun audio experience. Allyson Ryan did a great job channeling Ruby, coming across as strong but imparting all her various fears and emotions.
I have to hand it to Rothschild for crafting a different mystery than typical. It’s not one of those books where the main character is accused and must find the actual killer. Instead, she’s faced with a bunch of circumstantial evidence. I also appreciated that while Ruby has killed three people, she is still a likable character and one I could empathize with. She’s smart, she loves animals, she loved her husband. She’s kind. Told solely from her perspective, she thinks back on her life and the lives she did take. We also witness the investigation into her husband’s death and how her best friend and now attorney fight the charges.
The book moved at a fast pace and kept me guessing. The ending was clever and believable. And one I didn’t see coming.
This was a debut story and I’ll be anxious to see what Rothschild comes up with next. For sure, I’ll be picking it up.
It was a fun audio experience. Allyson Ryan did a great job channeling Ruby, coming across as strong but imparting all her various fears and emotions.
April 21, 2022
This did not work for me at all. The writing was completely childish. The main character was so unbelievable and ridiculous that it bordered on hysterically funny just how bad it was. The story was ridiculous. The plot was ridiculous. The characters were ridiculous. I’m actually shocked with the reviews on here.
September 18, 2022
4 brilliant stars!
This was a terrific surprise for me, because I did not know what to expect. I only read the cover and I went blind. I did not read the reviews. I choose to read this book because a friend that I follow (in a reading group) recommended it.
This is the author’s first novel and I can hardly wait for her next work. She raised the bar for herself, with this one, so she better bring it (but I think she can do it, after all she is an Emmy-nominated screenwriter).
I truly enjoyed the writing, the concept and its structure. The development of the storyline is superb and skillfully done, mixing past and present in the same chapter.
The whole book is written in first person, and there is only one POV, the protagonist’s, who, in my opinion, is hard not to like.
The pace is a bit slow (except for the last 30%), but I was totally engaged and I did not want to put this book down.
I could hear the author’s heart beat in here. It’s a work with love for writing.
PS: for pet lovers: there is a bird with a broken wing (no explanation for how it happened) that is rescued by the protagonist; there is a cat that was victim of cruelty and rescued by the protagonist (no gory details but the state it was found is very upsetting); there is the death of a rescued dog, which was adopted by the main character, and although it was by natural causes, the scenes were very emotional.
This was a terrific surprise for me, because I did not know what to expect. I only read the cover and I went blind. I did not read the reviews. I choose to read this book because a friend that I follow (in a reading group) recommended it.
This is the author’s first novel and I can hardly wait for her next work. She raised the bar for herself, with this one, so she better bring it (but I think she can do it, after all she is an Emmy-nominated screenwriter).
I truly enjoyed the writing, the concept and its structure. The development of the storyline is superb and skillfully done, mixing past and present in the same chapter.
The whole book is written in first person, and there is only one POV, the protagonist’s, who, in my opinion, is hard not to like.
The pace is a bit slow (except for the last 30%), but I was totally engaged and I did not want to put this book down.
I could hear the author’s heart beat in here. It’s a work with love for writing.
PS: for pet lovers: there is a bird with a broken wing (no explanation for how it happened) that is rescued by the protagonist; there is a cat that was victim of cruelty and rescued by the protagonist (no gory details but the state it was found is very upsetting); there is the death of a rescued dog, which was adopted by the main character, and although it was by natural causes, the scenes were very emotional.
April 14, 2022
As seen on www.mysteryandsuspensemagazine.com
“Blood Sugar” is the first fiction novel by author, Sascha Rothchild, previously known for her memoir “How to Get Divorced by 30” and a plethora of television and movie scripts, for companies like Fox, Dreamworks and NBC.
Ruby is a psychologist, dedicated to helping her patients overcome their emotional struggles and trauma. Married to a wonderfully awkward man named Jason, Ruby is happy, secure and satisfied with her life. But the one big secret Ruby is keeping from everyone is this- Ruby has killed people. Ruby does not identify as a sociopath, in fact, she is the opposite- she feels empathy and sympathy, can develop positive relationships with others, and adores all animals. Her “victims” all deserved it, in one way or the other. But when Jason dies unexpectedly in their bed, soon Ruby’s crimes come to light and are turned against her in a heartbreaking way as the police try and prove that Ruby was somehow behind the murder of her husband. After years of keeping her past safe, can Ruby avoid prosecution now that she is, actually, innocent?
“Blood Sugar” is a riveting, intense novel with an incredibly likable and unexpected heroine. She was someone I immediately connected with and although she makes it no secret that she has killed people, Ruby still somehow manages to be completely charming and relatable. Ruby has the tenacity and the charismatic personality that reminded me of Dexter (from the formerly-on-HBO TV series, “Dexter”) and, strangely, “Blood Sugar” also takes place in Miami (mostly). That city sure has its fair share of serial killers.
The novel is told completely by Ruby, some chapters of the novel speaking of her present, and some speaking of her past (when she committed her crimes). Each chapter is labeled and flows well, clearly marking the distinction between past and present. The reader is given sensible and rational reasons for Ruby’s past actions, while exhibiting Ruby’s current life as a successful (and empathetic) psychologist.
Every minute of the legal investigation leading up to Ruby’s trial was intense and gripping. I was pulled into Rothchild’s suspense-fueled plot, as Ruby’s case built (and then fell)in rising crescendos. There is no doubt in my mind that Rothchild is a writer, even if this is her first official fiction novel. She has a knack for developing complex characters, well-developed plots and she makes sure she hits all the emotional buttons while she’s at it. Although this novel came to a deeply satisfying conclusion, I desperately wanted more Ruby, as I loved every ounce of her character. I have no doubt this will not be Rothchild’s last foray into fiction, and I cannot wait to gobble up her next novel.
“Blood Sugar” is the first fiction novel by author, Sascha Rothchild, previously known for her memoir “How to Get Divorced by 30” and a plethora of television and movie scripts, for companies like Fox, Dreamworks and NBC.
Ruby is a psychologist, dedicated to helping her patients overcome their emotional struggles and trauma. Married to a wonderfully awkward man named Jason, Ruby is happy, secure and satisfied with her life. But the one big secret Ruby is keeping from everyone is this- Ruby has killed people. Ruby does not identify as a sociopath, in fact, she is the opposite- she feels empathy and sympathy, can develop positive relationships with others, and adores all animals. Her “victims” all deserved it, in one way or the other. But when Jason dies unexpectedly in their bed, soon Ruby’s crimes come to light and are turned against her in a heartbreaking way as the police try and prove that Ruby was somehow behind the murder of her husband. After years of keeping her past safe, can Ruby avoid prosecution now that she is, actually, innocent?
“Blood Sugar” is a riveting, intense novel with an incredibly likable and unexpected heroine. She was someone I immediately connected with and although she makes it no secret that she has killed people, Ruby still somehow manages to be completely charming and relatable. Ruby has the tenacity and the charismatic personality that reminded me of Dexter (from the formerly-on-HBO TV series, “Dexter”) and, strangely, “Blood Sugar” also takes place in Miami (mostly). That city sure has its fair share of serial killers.
The novel is told completely by Ruby, some chapters of the novel speaking of her present, and some speaking of her past (when she committed her crimes). Each chapter is labeled and flows well, clearly marking the distinction between past and present. The reader is given sensible and rational reasons for Ruby’s past actions, while exhibiting Ruby’s current life as a successful (and empathetic) psychologist.
Every minute of the legal investigation leading up to Ruby’s trial was intense and gripping. I was pulled into Rothchild’s suspense-fueled plot, as Ruby’s case built (and then fell)in rising crescendos. There is no doubt in my mind that Rothchild is a writer, even if this is her first official fiction novel. She has a knack for developing complex characters, well-developed plots and she makes sure she hits all the emotional buttons while she’s at it. Although this novel came to a deeply satisfying conclusion, I desperately wanted more Ruby, as I loved every ounce of her character. I have no doubt this will not be Rothchild’s last foray into fiction, and I cannot wait to gobble up her next novel.
January 6, 2023
I have a soft spot for books on serial killers, yep I know I may have a problem. But I love getting into their mindset, this book is told through the eyes of a female serial killer – Ruby
She is full of moxie, whipper sharp, cunning and about to be nabbed for the murder or her husband that she didn’t do. But she did murder three other people and got away with it.
The book begins with Ruby taken into custody, she is being interrogated by detective Jackson…. Whos framing her for Jason’s murder and will the discover the truth from all those years ago the three people she killed?
I love a character driven novel, we get the backstory of Ruby, her life, friendships and people she meets and the three she kills along the way leading up to her current predicament.
You find yourself rooting for Ruby, justifying her kills, there were good intentions. Her friendship with Roman was interesting, being inside the mind of a serial killer, this book ticks all of the boxes.
If you loved The Kind Worth Killing, pick this one up, it’s a great read I highly recommend it.
She is full of moxie, whipper sharp, cunning and about to be nabbed for the murder or her husband that she didn’t do. But she did murder three other people and got away with it.
The book begins with Ruby taken into custody, she is being interrogated by detective Jackson…. Whos framing her for Jason’s murder and will the discover the truth from all those years ago the three people she killed?
I love a character driven novel, we get the backstory of Ruby, her life, friendships and people she meets and the three she kills along the way leading up to her current predicament.
You find yourself rooting for Ruby, justifying her kills, there were good intentions. Her friendship with Roman was interesting, being inside the mind of a serial killer, this book ticks all of the boxes.
If you loved The Kind Worth Killing, pick this one up, it’s a great read I highly recommend it.
July 24, 2022
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Blood Sugar by Sascha Rothchild. (2022).
When Ruby was a child, she saw a boy from school struggling in the ocean. Instead of helping him, Ruby held his ankle down until he drowned. She never felt guilty. And, as Ruby will argue in her college thesis, guilt it's sort of like eating ice cream while on a diet - if you already feel bad, why not eat the whole carton? And so the bodies start to stack up. 25 years later, Ruby is being interrogated under suspicion of murder, being shown 4 photos of dead people, including her husband Jason. She is responsible for 3 deaths, but it might be the one she didn't commit that will finally ensnare her...
I really enjoyed this quirky story! It's not often you find a murderer relatable and find yourself hoping she doesn't end up in prison because one could argue the people she killed kind of had it coming... I think readers will find themselves not helping but like Ruby: she is intelligent and has a dark humour with an intriguing thought process. This is an engrossing narrative that will have readers furiously turning the pages as they discover how Ruby got to this point in her life as well as wonder if in a cosmic twist of events she will indeed pay the price for a crime she didn't commit.
Overall: a clever and entertaining debut fiction novel for this author and one I would happily recommend.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
Blood Sugar by Sascha Rothchild. (2022).
When Ruby was a child, she saw a boy from school struggling in the ocean. Instead of helping him, Ruby held his ankle down until he drowned. She never felt guilty. And, as Ruby will argue in her college thesis, guilt it's sort of like eating ice cream while on a diet - if you already feel bad, why not eat the whole carton? And so the bodies start to stack up. 25 years later, Ruby is being interrogated under suspicion of murder, being shown 4 photos of dead people, including her husband Jason. She is responsible for 3 deaths, but it might be the one she didn't commit that will finally ensnare her...
I really enjoyed this quirky story! It's not often you find a murderer relatable and find yourself hoping she doesn't end up in prison because one could argue the people she killed kind of had it coming... I think readers will find themselves not helping but like Ruby: she is intelligent and has a dark humour with an intriguing thought process. This is an engrossing narrative that will have readers furiously turning the pages as they discover how Ruby got to this point in her life as well as wonder if in a cosmic twist of events she will indeed pay the price for a crime she didn't commit.
Overall: a clever and entertaining debut fiction novel for this author and one I would happily recommend.
March 7, 2022
This was a fun book! It had elements of books I’ve read before such as They Never Learn. I loved how easy it was to read and the pages just flew by. The story captured me from the start and I was fascinated by the the main character’s psyche.
People joke about killing someone but for Ruby it’s not all fun and games. She has actually murdered three people. She’s not a complete sociopath. Ruby is a therapist with a thriving clientele. She’s maintained relationships and loves her husband Jason. Everything changes when homicide detectives come knocking.
Ruby finds herself in an interrogation room accused of murdering her husband. This makes her laugh because she didn’t kill Jason. Ruby recounts her life and how she ended up in her current situation. Told in alternating chapters between Ruby’s past including the three murders she committed and the present Ruby struggles to clear her name as she comes to terms with the actions that lead her there.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
People joke about killing someone but for Ruby it’s not all fun and games. She has actually murdered three people. She’s not a complete sociopath. Ruby is a therapist with a thriving clientele. She’s maintained relationships and loves her husband Jason. Everything changes when homicide detectives come knocking.
Ruby finds herself in an interrogation room accused of murdering her husband. This makes her laugh because she didn’t kill Jason. Ruby recounts her life and how she ended up in her current situation. Told in alternating chapters between Ruby’s past including the three murders she committed and the present Ruby struggles to clear her name as she comes to terms with the actions that lead her there.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
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