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The Visit
Her ex is hellbent on destroying her. How far will she go to stop him?
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Hayden is not only brash and unpredictable with a warped sense of humour, he also seems intent on making life very difficult for Vanessa, who hasn't seen him since she was sixteen.
As Hayden causes more and more disruption in their lives, Curtis begins to realise that he has some kind of bizarre hold on Vanessa.
And when she suggests a plan to remove Hayden from their lives forever, Curtis becomes convinced she's hiding some big secret from her past.
But has Vanessa underestimated how dangerous and unpredictable Hayden is? How far will he go to get what he wants? And how far will she go to stop her perfect life from being destroyed?
The Visit is a gripping psychological thriller with satisfying twists and turns that will keep readers enthralled till the very end.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Hayden is not only brash and unpredictable with a warped sense of humour, he also seems intent on making life very difficult for Vanessa, who hasn't seen him since she was sixteen.
As Hayden causes more and more disruption in their lives, Curtis begins to realise that he has some kind of bizarre hold on Vanessa.
And when she suggests a plan to remove Hayden from their lives forever, Curtis becomes convinced she's hiding some big secret from her past.
But has Vanessa underestimated how dangerous and unpredictable Hayden is? How far will he go to get what he wants? And how far will she go to stop her perfect life from being destroyed?
The Visit is a gripping psychological thriller with satisfying twists and turns that will keep readers enthralled till the very end.
- GenresThriller
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2023
568 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Robert W. Kirby
15 books46 followersI was born in 1979 and live in Kent with my wife and children. I ran a private investigation agency for over fifteen years, dealing in cases that involved breach of contract claims, commercial debt recovery, and process serving. My agency also specialised in people tracing, so much of my work revolved around tracking down debtors, dealing in adoption matters and locating missing persons. At times, I worked on some pretty bizarre cases and dealt with plenty of interesting and sometimes colourful individuals.
I’ve had a huge passion for screenwriting for many years and started writing novels in 2021. My first novel, The Tests, was based on a spec screenplay that I originally wrote back in 2009. The Tests was then republished with Inkubator Books in 2022 under the new title, The Wrong Girl.
If you enjoy dark crime fiction and intense psychological thrillers, don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter so you can find out about new releases, book deals, and giveaways. All subscribers receive a free copy of my novella, Survival Weekend. (eBook or Audio version) https://www.robertkirbybooks.com/subs...
I’ve had a huge passion for screenwriting for many years and started writing novels in 2021. My first novel, The Tests, was based on a spec screenplay that I originally wrote back in 2009. The Tests was then republished with Inkubator Books in 2022 under the new title, The Wrong Girl.
If you enjoy dark crime fiction and intense psychological thrillers, don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter so you can find out about new releases, book deals, and giveaways. All subscribers receive a free copy of my novella, Survival Weekend. (eBook or Audio version) https://www.robertkirbybooks.com/subs...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 19, 2023
The Visit comes out June 4, 2023
This book will definitely take you on a crazy ride, so buckle up and get ready! Honestly, While this book is definitely a psychological thriller, it also had some strange fantasy lore mixed in. It took me a bit to really care about the characters, but once it got going it just didn't stop.
Vanessa seems to have it all, a beautiful home, an amazing husband, and two beautiful kids. But one night while entertaining dinner guests, Vanessa's Husband Curtis answers the front door and nothing is ever the same again.
Hayden enters their life, an ex that Vanessa hasn't seen since she was sixteen. Crude and disrespectful it becomes clear that Vanessa isn't happy to see him and there is no love lost between them. Vanessa begins to pull away leaving Curtis to wonder what she is hiding. Hayden drives a wedge between them and steers them all down a dark path that Vanessa believes will tear her world apart. This book will leave you struggling to know who to trust and what will happen next. Hang on it is a wild ride.
Thank you Netgalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book will definitely take you on a crazy ride, so buckle up and get ready! Honestly, While this book is definitely a psychological thriller, it also had some strange fantasy lore mixed in. It took me a bit to really care about the characters, but once it got going it just didn't stop.
Vanessa seems to have it all, a beautiful home, an amazing husband, and two beautiful kids. But one night while entertaining dinner guests, Vanessa's Husband Curtis answers the front door and nothing is ever the same again.
Hayden enters their life, an ex that Vanessa hasn't seen since she was sixteen. Crude and disrespectful it becomes clear that Vanessa isn't happy to see him and there is no love lost between them. Vanessa begins to pull away leaving Curtis to wonder what she is hiding. Hayden drives a wedge between them and steers them all down a dark path that Vanessa believes will tear her world apart. This book will leave you struggling to know who to trust and what will happen next. Hang on it is a wild ride.
Thank you Netgalley for this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2024
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
3.5 stars.
***AUDIO BOOK VERSION***
The Visit is a twisty thriller about Vanessa who seemingly has it all - a nice home, loving husband ( Curtis), and two beautiful children. But after a knock on the door during a dinner party she hosts, her life is flipped upside down. When Vanessa's ex Hayden barges back into her life after not seeing him since she was sixteen-years-old, it's apparent from the start that she's uncomfortable and unhappy to see him. Curtis begins to question if Vanessa is hiding something, and when Hayden starts to successfully drive a wedge between them, her life begins to unravel fast.
I think I would have enjoyed this more, not as an audio book. Whilst the female narrator captured me and held my attention, I wasn't as keep on the male narrator and couldn't connect to the story when it changed between the narrators. But that's just my personal preference - I think I would have preferred the story being just one narrator. I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took me through and found myself questioning who to believe and who to trust.
3.5 stars.
***AUDIO BOOK VERSION***
The Visit is a twisty thriller about Vanessa who seemingly has it all - a nice home, loving husband ( Curtis), and two beautiful children. But after a knock on the door during a dinner party she hosts, her life is flipped upside down. When Vanessa's ex Hayden barges back into her life after not seeing him since she was sixteen-years-old, it's apparent from the start that she's uncomfortable and unhappy to see him. Curtis begins to question if Vanessa is hiding something, and when Hayden starts to successfully drive a wedge between them, her life begins to unravel fast.
I think I would have enjoyed this more, not as an audio book. Whilst the female narrator captured me and held my attention, I wasn't as keep on the male narrator and couldn't connect to the story when it changed between the narrators. But that's just my personal preference - I think I would have preferred the story being just one narrator. I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took me through and found myself questioning who to believe and who to trust.
June 22, 2023
The Visit follows Vanessa who appears to have some dark secrets which come back to haunt her and her family when someone from her past makes a surprise visit.
I really enjoyed this book, it was well written with a compelling storyline and well developed characters who all have their own flaws. I really liked them and what you learn about the characters really shocks you and you struggle with who to trust.
When I read the synopsis of this book I felt it was going to be a good read and I wasn't wrong. It was twisty and unpredictable leaving me not knowing who to believe or what to think. It had me hooked right from the start and I couldn't put it down. I can usually work out the twists and turns in most books but I couldn’t work them out in this one which really kept me in suspense.
The storyline was good and full of suspense. It captures your attention with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. There is plenty of tension and intrigue in this book and the author has a lovely writing style. The Visit keeps you gripped to the end and I totally recommend it.
May 6, 2024
✨Review✨
The visit
By Robert W Kirby
Narrated by: Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield
Genre: psychological thriller
Format: audiobook 🎧
Publication date: 12th April 2024
🌟: 4/5
Vanessa’s past catches up with her when a man makes an unexpected visit to her family home.
I enjoyed this audiobook, I thought it was well written and flowed well. The audio was excellent and the narrators did a great job making each character distinct and brought to life. The characters in the story were well developed and had their own fleshed out back stories, personal flaws and secrets, which made you keep guessing where the story was going.
I liked how well the twists and turns worked out, I was never quite sure what was going on and who I should be trusting. It was fast paced and intriguing throughout, with an ending I really didn’t see coming.
The visit
By Robert W Kirby
Narrated by: Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield
Genre: psychological thriller
Format: audiobook 🎧
Publication date: 12th April 2024
🌟: 4/5
Vanessa’s past catches up with her when a man makes an unexpected visit to her family home.
I enjoyed this audiobook, I thought it was well written and flowed well. The audio was excellent and the narrators did a great job making each character distinct and brought to life. The characters in the story were well developed and had their own fleshed out back stories, personal flaws and secrets, which made you keep guessing where the story was going.
I liked how well the twists and turns worked out, I was never quite sure what was going on and who I should be trusting. It was fast paced and intriguing throughout, with an ending I really didn’t see coming.
June 14, 2023
My Thoughts: this book is the epitome of the past always coming back to haunt you, it doesn’t matter how far you run.. until it’s dealt with properly it will always find you!
I was drawn into this one instantly, this wasn’t your typical thriller, there are elements of other genres too, it really was like an onion, with so many layers, every time you peel one away it presents questions to more.
I’m really trying not to reveal anything about the plot, but we get flashbacks in the book from Vanessa or Essa and we soon start to realise that there are secrets galore being kept throughout the story!
Fast paced, utterly engaging and bloody impossible to put down, at nearly 400 pages it’s a long one for a psychological thriller but I promise it’s worth it!
I was drawn into this one instantly, this wasn’t your typical thriller, there are elements of other genres too, it really was like an onion, with so many layers, every time you peel one away it presents questions to more.
I’m really trying not to reveal anything about the plot, but we get flashbacks in the book from Vanessa or Essa and we soon start to realise that there are secrets galore being kept throughout the story!
Fast paced, utterly engaging and bloody impossible to put down, at nearly 400 pages it’s a long one for a psychological thriller but I promise it’s worth it!
May 8, 2024
Oh this one's twisty! How far would you go to prevent the dreaded ex from ruining your life? Well in this book we see just how far Vanessa will go.
The audio is fantastic and the different characters really come across well. There's a feeling of anticipation, waiting to see what happens next.
I honestly couldn't predict how it would go but I loved every minute of it. Fans of thrillers will love this.
The audio is fantastic and the different characters really come across well. There's a feeling of anticipation, waiting to see what happens next.
I honestly couldn't predict how it would go but I loved every minute of it. Fans of thrillers will love this.
May 4, 2024
This is my second Kirby book (plus just started the novella, Survival Weekend) and I absolutely loved Feud on Dead Lane so was really looking forward to reading this one (my first one not on audio too) - and yes! I was not disappointed at all!
This one instantly drew me in by the cover. The view of the lit but empty house looked like someone was watching it - and made me wonder why it was so empty looking - very sinister.
Being familiar with the writing style I went into this one looking forward to it so of course I was totally immersed right for page 1.
I loved meeting our characters - Curtis and Vanessa and the scene was set perfectly of their new home and idyllic life.
Kirby has a way of writing his characters that just makes them so relatable and realistic and I think that this helps to endear them to me - which of course then allows me to get way too involved and emotional about the events to follow.
Who knew that when Hayden appeared on the scene, things would take a turn for both lives and personalities. Vanessa definitely has some past issues to work through and Hayden was just out for fun and disruption until each ups the stakes.
I hate delving too far into plot, so will just say that this worked perfectly. With so many twists and turns I was left wondering who to trust and who was actually worse than the other. (I love books like this!)
I absolutely raced through this - desperate to start, couldn't put it down, and disappointed it ended! I've already started my next Kirby book - being a novella won't take me long at all - and am already desperate for my next read!
My newest auto-buy author 💗
Merged review:
I've now read a few books by this author and have loved them all so far!
I was so excited to dive into this one and see what was in store for us this time....
I love it when a cover really draws me in before I even know what the book is about -This one instantly drew me in with the view of the lit but empty house which gave me that creepy and sinister vibe.
Being familiar with the writing style, I went into this one looking forward to it, so of course I was totally immersed right from page 1.
I loved meeting our characters - Curtis and Vanessa and the scene was set perfectly of their new home and idyllic life.
Kirby has a way of writing his characters that just makes them so relatable and realistic and I think that this helps to endear them to me - which of course then allows me to get way too involved and emotional about the events to follow.
Who knew that when Hayden appeared on the scene, things would take a turn for both lives and personalities.
Vanessa definitely has some past issues to work through and Hayden was just out for fun and disruption until each ups the stakes and the story twists and turns leaving me totally unsure of who to trust and where the story would go.
I hate delving too far into plot, so will just say that this worked perfectly.
As we heard from the different pov's, the backstories slowly emerge and evolve - there were some real shocks and wow moments which I never saw coming - even though I had some suspicions?
This was a super fast-paced read and with so much going on from start to finish, I struggled to put this down.
I'm already looking forward to my next read which I've already got on my tbr....
This one instantly drew me in by the cover. The view of the lit but empty house looked like someone was watching it - and made me wonder why it was so empty looking - very sinister.
Being familiar with the writing style I went into this one looking forward to it so of course I was totally immersed right for page 1.
I loved meeting our characters - Curtis and Vanessa and the scene was set perfectly of their new home and idyllic life.
Kirby has a way of writing his characters that just makes them so relatable and realistic and I think that this helps to endear them to me - which of course then allows me to get way too involved and emotional about the events to follow.
Who knew that when Hayden appeared on the scene, things would take a turn for both lives and personalities. Vanessa definitely has some past issues to work through and Hayden was just out for fun and disruption until each ups the stakes.
I hate delving too far into plot, so will just say that this worked perfectly. With so many twists and turns I was left wondering who to trust and who was actually worse than the other. (I love books like this!)
I absolutely raced through this - desperate to start, couldn't put it down, and disappointed it ended! I've already started my next Kirby book - being a novella won't take me long at all - and am already desperate for my next read!
My newest auto-buy author 💗
Merged review:
I've now read a few books by this author and have loved them all so far!
I was so excited to dive into this one and see what was in store for us this time....
I love it when a cover really draws me in before I even know what the book is about -This one instantly drew me in with the view of the lit but empty house which gave me that creepy and sinister vibe.
Being familiar with the writing style, I went into this one looking forward to it, so of course I was totally immersed right from page 1.
I loved meeting our characters - Curtis and Vanessa and the scene was set perfectly of their new home and idyllic life.
Kirby has a way of writing his characters that just makes them so relatable and realistic and I think that this helps to endear them to me - which of course then allows me to get way too involved and emotional about the events to follow.
Who knew that when Hayden appeared on the scene, things would take a turn for both lives and personalities.
Vanessa definitely has some past issues to work through and Hayden was just out for fun and disruption until each ups the stakes and the story twists and turns leaving me totally unsure of who to trust and where the story would go.
I hate delving too far into plot, so will just say that this worked perfectly.
As we heard from the different pov's, the backstories slowly emerge and evolve - there were some real shocks and wow moments which I never saw coming - even though I had some suspicions?
This was a super fast-paced read and with so much going on from start to finish, I struggled to put this down.
I'm already looking forward to my next read which I've already got on my tbr....
May 23, 2023
Her ex is hellbent on destroying her. How far will she go to stop him?
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Hayden is not only brash and unpredictable with a warped sense of humour, he also seems intent on making life very difficult for Vanessa, who hasn't seen him since she was sixteen.
As Hayden causes more and more disruption in their lives, Curtis begins to realise that he has some kind of bizarre hold on Vanessa.
And when she suggests a plan to remove Hayden from their lives forever, Curtis becomes convinced she's hiding some big secret from her past.
But has Vanessa underestimated how dangerous and unpredictable Hayden is? How far will he go to get what he wants? And how far will she go to stop her perfect life from being destroyed?
Holy thrilling rollercoaster. I was hooked from the beginning. The characters were perfectly flawed (I said what I said), and the plot was perfectly written. Will recommend to others.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Hayden is not only brash and unpredictable with a warped sense of humour, he also seems intent on making life very difficult for Vanessa, who hasn't seen him since she was sixteen.
As Hayden causes more and more disruption in their lives, Curtis begins to realise that he has some kind of bizarre hold on Vanessa.
And when she suggests a plan to remove Hayden from their lives forever, Curtis becomes convinced she's hiding some big secret from her past.
But has Vanessa underestimated how dangerous and unpredictable Hayden is? How far will he go to get what he wants? And how far will she go to stop her perfect life from being destroyed?
Holy thrilling rollercoaster. I was hooked from the beginning. The characters were perfectly flawed (I said what I said), and the plot was perfectly written. Will recommend to others.
November 2, 2023
3.5 stars.
May 7, 2024
This was a really intriguing audiobook and I very much enjoyed it. On the front it describes it as nail biting and I would have to agree. I found myself listening at every opportunity not just on the normal commute to work despite being petrified that something terrible would happen! I thought the dual narration made it much easier to identify and understand the two different characters and both voices suited the story. I would recommend to other thriller lovers as I enjoyed this!
June 11, 2023
What a little gem this is! I mean it is no surprise I would enjoy this one, as I do love Rob’s books but I am not happy with him for some of this book! I made that clear to him LOL.
This has a little bit of everything in it, splash of romance, thrills, action, and even a bit of occult! All merged into a thriller that will keep you turning those pages!! I was hooked!
Essa or Vanessa as she is now known, has secrets and a few of them! She has a wonderful life with her two children and Curtis, living in Whitstable. I loved the setting as I know the area and I could picture it clearly.
These secrets are explosive and we are dripped fed them, but the best thing is these secrets can’t be trusted. Everyone has a different point of view and it makes you question everyone. All of this is set in motion by one person and an interruption one evening.
It was an exciting and thrilling ride! I thought I had nearly finished the book at one point because I didn’t think much more could be done, but no I was only halfway through!!! It blew my mind!!
It had me guessing and as I got near the end I still didn’t know everything and then I did…wow!
Everyone played a part in the story, every character had a finite and some in ways I didn’t want. Although one got a completely messed up final ending! Loved it!!!!
This has a little bit of everything in it, splash of romance, thrills, action, and even a bit of occult! All merged into a thriller that will keep you turning those pages!! I was hooked!
Essa or Vanessa as she is now known, has secrets and a few of them! She has a wonderful life with her two children and Curtis, living in Whitstable. I loved the setting as I know the area and I could picture it clearly.
These secrets are explosive and we are dripped fed them, but the best thing is these secrets can’t be trusted. Everyone has a different point of view and it makes you question everyone. All of this is set in motion by one person and an interruption one evening.
It was an exciting and thrilling ride! I thought I had nearly finished the book at one point because I didn’t think much more could be done, but no I was only halfway through!!! It blew my mind!!
It had me guessing and as I got near the end I still didn’t know everything and then I did…wow!
Everyone played a part in the story, every character had a finite and some in ways I didn’t want. Although one got a completely messed up final ending! Loved it!!!!
June 16, 2023
I was intruded by the start of this book. I feel it has a little bit of a slow start but as I started to get to know the characters more I started to connect and feel for them. We had lots of things and development parts of plots in this book the thriller part snuck upon me and I started to flick harder thought the pages (well kindle)
Essa was a very interesting character and when her secrets were reveal I was in shock. Curtis whoms her other half
Someone from her past whom she never intended to see again turns up at a small gathering. She has kept this person a secret so that neither her spouse nor her friends are aware of him.
We are drip-fed these explosive secrets, and the best part is that we can't rely on them. Everyone has a unique perspective, which causes you to doubt everyone. One person's interference one evening is what starts it all off.
It was a fun and exhilarating ride! At one point, I believed there wasn't much left to be done with the book, but I was
Essa was a very interesting character and when her secrets were reveal I was in shock. Curtis whoms her other half
Someone from her past whom she never intended to see again turns up at a small gathering. She has kept this person a secret so that neither her spouse nor her friends are aware of him.
We are drip-fed these explosive secrets, and the best part is that we can't rely on them. Everyone has a unique perspective, which causes you to doubt everyone. One person's interference one evening is what starts it all off.
It was a fun and exhilarating ride! At one point, I believed there wasn't much left to be done with the book, but I was
October 9, 2023
Boy, this book gave me some good whiplash! I was trudging along reading the book thinking I knew where this was going. Then BAM, twist! Then BAM, another twist, and then BAM another twist! The best part? I didn’t see any of the twists coming. One of the things that I enjoyed the most about this book is that the characters were flawed. In so many books there is one perfect character – well not in this one, not even the children. This makes the characters relatable, especially for me because I have angel/devil children! Though the book isn’t focused on the children, the adult characters are flawed and relatable as well. There’s a part in the book where the events just speed up and so did my reading, just racing to the end so I could know how it all plays out. Perfect for anyone that loves thriller reads. Oh yeah, and there’s some fantasy in it as well!
June 15, 2023
Vanessa is living a good life. She has a locks husband, a great house, and great friends. At a small party someone from her past shows up that she never wanted to see again. She’s kept this person a secret so her husband and friends know nothing about him. The author turns the story several ways and keeps us guessing. I enjoyed how the author revealed past information in small sections. It allowed me to start to understand the past but kept me wanting to read to find out more. This book has quite a few subplots and characters going in different directions. This book will keep you guessing until the very end.
June 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this book it was well written w with a compelling storyline and well developed characters who jumped off of the page. I love the feont cover it instantly made me think it was going to be a good read and I wasn't wrong.
It was twisty and unpredictable leaving me not knowing who to believe or what to think. It had me hooked right from the start and I couldn't put it down.
A great read
It was twisty and unpredictable leaving me not knowing who to believe or what to think. It had me hooked right from the start and I couldn't put it down.
A great read
June 18, 2023
The Visit by Robert W Kirby.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Omg. Absolutely brilliant. Twisty and gripping. I don't know how I felt about the characters. I liked them but I didn't. 5*.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to an idyllic house in the seaside town of Whitstable. Their life there is wonderful, until Vanessa’s ex-boyfriend Hayden shows up out of the blue.
Omg. Absolutely brilliant. Twisty and gripping. I don't know how I felt about the characters. I liked them but I didn't. 5*.
June 26, 2023
This book grips the reader and completely immerses you in the storyline. You feel like you are right there in the action. It also keeps on giving when you think you have it all worked out and there are no more.secrets wham!
June 21, 2023
Vanessa and Curtis with their children, Jude and Sophie, have moved into the most beautiful house anyone could possibly imagine. It even has its own cinema room! Also, it’s by the beach near Whitstable on a little estuary so great for a little swimming in the open with the right equipment. They are settling in really well and have some friends round for an evening meal when an old ex-partner of Vanessa’s turns up and spoils the evening. She hasn’t seen Hayden Knox since she was sixteen and if she had her way, she wouldn’t have seen him that night if it hadn’t been for her idiotic husband inviting him in for a drink. He got to speak to their friends Delphine and Jonas but the damage was done by then and when he brought the past up and divulged too much in lurid detail, Vanessa was seething. He was definitely out to ruin her and her husband’s reputation and possibly their marriage. Hayden came across as though he had a very warped sense of humour. Vanessa seems to have changed personality. She is hardly eating, speaking to Curtis or spending time with the kids.
Jude wants to go to Deadman’s Island, apparently a friend of his has been and now he wants to. Curtis says he will check it out. After a day on the bike, he fancies some fish and chips but no one will walk with him to get any, so he sets out on his own. He gets them and a beer and sits on the beach next to a party. When the music starts, it’s Mungo Jerry, the tune they used for the advert for drink driving years ago, it puts him off his food. He lost his brother to that. He goes for a drink or two and runs into Hayden, they get talking and drinking. Curtis mentions Deadman's Island to him, Hayden offers to go along with him so gives him his phone number. They carry on drinking for quite a while. The following week, Curtis and Hayden set off to Deadman’s Island on paddle boats. They get to the island okay but then Curtis has had enough after some bad mouthing from Hayden so turns around to go back, next thing he’s in the water and can’t get free. He’s being held down by something so releases the life jacket he was wearing then rises to the surface and swims to the bank.
Once he’s standing, he spies Hayden rowing to shore and the cars. His paddle boat is just round the island so he struggles around to it. He rows like crazy to get back to shore and then drives like a madman back home, leaving a threatening voicemail for Hayden on his phone. He was almost killed today. He wanted to know from Vanessa what that guy knew about her and he wanted to know today! Vanessa relents and says some of her past but then it becomes too much for her. After a few days, she realises the best plan would be to move under the radar and move house, somewhere no one knows them but quiet and out of the public eye. They would have to pay Hayden some money and be gone before he came back for more. She went to Curtis and explained part of the plan about giving Hayden money to get him off their backs although she knew he wouldn’t be happy about that either. He agreed but was unhappy. Vanessa texted Hayden and offered him ten thousand pounds, he came back with a counter offer, so she knew he was after money. She offered fifteen and said that was it, no more. Three hours later, he came back and said he would text the next day with a location.
The next day, he wanted Vanessa to drop off the money on her own. As it was meant to be in public, she didn’t have a problem with it. Although when she got to the restaurant, he changed the destination. Vanessa didn’t tell Curtiss this though. Vanessa went to the next place but Hayden never showed up and Curtis was never so relieved to have the text to say she was on her way home. A few days after that, there was a knock at the door. Curtis was going to answer but decided to check CCTV. He couldn’t believe Hayden had the gall to show up at his front door. It turned out to be Hayden looking for Russell who sometimes impersonated him. He knew Russell had been with them from the photos he sent and he showed Curtis the proof. It was decided they needed a chat so went for a walk by the sea with Russell doing most of the talking. Curtis learnt a lot of Vanessa’s past that day and he didn’t like what he heard either. It seemed some stuff had been hidden from her too though. Hayden said he would try to find Russell and put him back on medication.
What could possibly happen next? Would it be Hayden or Russell turning up on their doorstep? How would they know?
This is a brilliant read and a great psychologically written story. It's fantastically written and exceptionally well described throughout the book. I don’t like Hayden very much. He’s a nasty character and I’m not quite sure what his plan is for Vanessa and Curtis but it can’t be good if he’s bringing her past up. Is there really a brother called Russell? Could he be trying to play nasty and nice by pretending there’s two of them? You will need to read it and see but you won’t be disappointed.
Jude wants to go to Deadman’s Island, apparently a friend of his has been and now he wants to. Curtis says he will check it out. After a day on the bike, he fancies some fish and chips but no one will walk with him to get any, so he sets out on his own. He gets them and a beer and sits on the beach next to a party. When the music starts, it’s Mungo Jerry, the tune they used for the advert for drink driving years ago, it puts him off his food. He lost his brother to that. He goes for a drink or two and runs into Hayden, they get talking and drinking. Curtis mentions Deadman's Island to him, Hayden offers to go along with him so gives him his phone number. They carry on drinking for quite a while. The following week, Curtis and Hayden set off to Deadman’s Island on paddle boats. They get to the island okay but then Curtis has had enough after some bad mouthing from Hayden so turns around to go back, next thing he’s in the water and can’t get free. He’s being held down by something so releases the life jacket he was wearing then rises to the surface and swims to the bank.
Once he’s standing, he spies Hayden rowing to shore and the cars. His paddle boat is just round the island so he struggles around to it. He rows like crazy to get back to shore and then drives like a madman back home, leaving a threatening voicemail for Hayden on his phone. He was almost killed today. He wanted to know from Vanessa what that guy knew about her and he wanted to know today! Vanessa relents and says some of her past but then it becomes too much for her. After a few days, she realises the best plan would be to move under the radar and move house, somewhere no one knows them but quiet and out of the public eye. They would have to pay Hayden some money and be gone before he came back for more. She went to Curtis and explained part of the plan about giving Hayden money to get him off their backs although she knew he wouldn’t be happy about that either. He agreed but was unhappy. Vanessa texted Hayden and offered him ten thousand pounds, he came back with a counter offer, so she knew he was after money. She offered fifteen and said that was it, no more. Three hours later, he came back and said he would text the next day with a location.
The next day, he wanted Vanessa to drop off the money on her own. As it was meant to be in public, she didn’t have a problem with it. Although when she got to the restaurant, he changed the destination. Vanessa didn’t tell Curtiss this though. Vanessa went to the next place but Hayden never showed up and Curtis was never so relieved to have the text to say she was on her way home. A few days after that, there was a knock at the door. Curtis was going to answer but decided to check CCTV. He couldn’t believe Hayden had the gall to show up at his front door. It turned out to be Hayden looking for Russell who sometimes impersonated him. He knew Russell had been with them from the photos he sent and he showed Curtis the proof. It was decided they needed a chat so went for a walk by the sea with Russell doing most of the talking. Curtis learnt a lot of Vanessa’s past that day and he didn’t like what he heard either. It seemed some stuff had been hidden from her too though. Hayden said he would try to find Russell and put him back on medication.
What could possibly happen next? Would it be Hayden or Russell turning up on their doorstep? How would they know?
This is a brilliant read and a great psychologically written story. It's fantastically written and exceptionally well described throughout the book. I don’t like Hayden very much. He’s a nasty character and I’m not quite sure what his plan is for Vanessa and Curtis but it can’t be good if he’s bringing her past up. Is there really a brother called Russell? Could he be trying to play nasty and nice by pretending there’s two of them? You will need to read it and see but you won’t be disappointed.
November 23, 2025
This is a twisty story of the kind that keeps turning in on itself. It’s rather dark and quite bloody at times, as secrets that have been hidden away for years, some of them of the gravest kind, have to be confronted. As each layer is removed another darker one is revealed until the conclusion, which is a great piece of moral dilemma. We love them in crime fiction, but this is of the sort we would never want to face.
It moves along brisky, with the intrigue never letting up for even a chapter. There are plenty of surprises for the reader to negotiate and it retains the power to shock at times. There’s an unexpected piece of misdirection, which I cannot reveal, which essentially flips the storyline on its head. It’s a certainly well-constructed plot, even when it pushes the credibility envelope.
The narration is great. The narrative is split between male and female voices to correspond with the changing chapter point of views, which works well. The switching makes it appear to move along at pace and prevents the mood from becoming mired when events turn dark.
At its core the motivation and themes revolve around family and relationships. Vanessa’s childhood was difficult at times. Her relationship with her mother was strained, with the woman putting perturbing ideas in the child’s head from an early age. It later became quite disturbing but thankfully her father was a rock. Later her teenage relationship with Hayden takes a troubling turn on one fateful day on the beach when lives are changed forever. There are secrets that she will carry, although she doesn’t know it, Vanessa only is party to some of the story and what she doesn’t know is vital.
Naturally Vanessa’s marriage with Curtis becomes strained and threatens to untwine, as each begins making independent decisions hoping to make things better but only to make them worse. Expect the law of unintended consequences to make several appearances, along with demonstrations that once truth and honesty go there is little holding a relationship together. In the end it becomes psychologically damaging for them, but will they be able to hold it all together. The characterisation here is excellent, the shellshocked, untrusting spouses capture the imagination.
Hayden is an excellent antagonist of the kind where the reader thinks surely, he’s not that bad, only to have any thoughts of redeeming features dashed by him proving to be even worse than expected.
It moves along brisky, with the intrigue never letting up for even a chapter. There are plenty of surprises for the reader to negotiate and it retains the power to shock at times. There’s an unexpected piece of misdirection, which I cannot reveal, which essentially flips the storyline on its head. It’s a certainly well-constructed plot, even when it pushes the credibility envelope.
The narration is great. The narrative is split between male and female voices to correspond with the changing chapter point of views, which works well. The switching makes it appear to move along at pace and prevents the mood from becoming mired when events turn dark.
At its core the motivation and themes revolve around family and relationships. Vanessa’s childhood was difficult at times. Her relationship with her mother was strained, with the woman putting perturbing ideas in the child’s head from an early age. It later became quite disturbing but thankfully her father was a rock. Later her teenage relationship with Hayden takes a troubling turn on one fateful day on the beach when lives are changed forever. There are secrets that she will carry, although she doesn’t know it, Vanessa only is party to some of the story and what she doesn’t know is vital.
Naturally Vanessa’s marriage with Curtis becomes strained and threatens to untwine, as each begins making independent decisions hoping to make things better but only to make them worse. Expect the law of unintended consequences to make several appearances, along with demonstrations that once truth and honesty go there is little holding a relationship together. In the end it becomes psychologically damaging for them, but will they be able to hold it all together. The characterisation here is excellent, the shellshocked, untrusting spouses capture the imagination.
Hayden is an excellent antagonist of the kind where the reader thinks surely, he’s not that bad, only to have any thoughts of redeeming features dashed by him proving to be even worse than expected.
May 8, 2024
I’m always up to listen to a psychological thriller. This one took me on quite the ride. I must admit I needed to pay a little bit more attention than I usually do, but the payout was worth it. It is probably one of the more unique thrillers I’ve listened to as it dips a little into fantasy. The plot is layered and surprising at times. I don’t know if I would call it twisty, but it went off where I wasn’t expecting it and surprised me over and over.
Some of the characters were very unlikable and there were a few that my thoughts bounced around on how much I liked them in addition to how much I trusted their account of things. There were moments when I wasn’t sure it was all going to piece together, but it fit like a puzzle.
There are explosive secrets and just about everyone had at least one.
I’m trying to hard to describe this but to also not spoil anything. I’m not sure where that line is but I definitely don’t want to overstep. Everyone is unreliable. The characters are relatable but not always likable. There is a wild roller coaster of a ride as it all slowly unravels. I know that makes no sense but it really does.
Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield do a great job of voicing all the characters (and there are a few) in this one. They keep everything in check and represent the right tone as the plot layers are peeled back and exposed.
Some of the characters were very unlikable and there were a few that my thoughts bounced around on how much I liked them in addition to how much I trusted their account of things. There were moments when I wasn’t sure it was all going to piece together, but it fit like a puzzle.
There are explosive secrets and just about everyone had at least one.
I’m trying to hard to describe this but to also not spoil anything. I’m not sure where that line is but I definitely don’t want to overstep. Everyone is unreliable. The characters are relatable but not always likable. There is a wild roller coaster of a ride as it all slowly unravels. I know that makes no sense but it really does.
Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield do a great job of voicing all the characters (and there are a few) in this one. They keep everything in check and represent the right tone as the plot layers are peeled back and exposed.
November 26, 2025
The audio version of this book is phenomenal. Dryw and Louise completely elevate the story — their performances kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The tension, the emotional undercurrent, the slow-burn dread… they nailed every single beat.
Vanessa and Curtis’s move to Whitstable seems picture-perfect, until Hayden crashes back into Vanessa’s life like a storm you can’t outrun. The narrators bring every unsettling moment to life — Hayden’s warped humor, Curtis’s growing suspicion, and Vanessa’s unraveling secrets — all delivered with such intensity that I found myself holding my breath more than once.
Dryw captures the menace and unpredictability of Hayden flawlessly, while Louise brings so much depth and vulnerability to Vanessa that you can feel her fear, guilt, and desperation. Together, they create an immersive experience that makes the twists hit even harder.
If you love thrillers that keep your pulse racing and make you question everyone, the audiobook is an absolute must. These narrators don’t just tell the story — they pull you straight into the chaos
Vanessa and Curtis’s move to Whitstable seems picture-perfect, until Hayden crashes back into Vanessa’s life like a storm you can’t outrun. The narrators bring every unsettling moment to life — Hayden’s warped humor, Curtis’s growing suspicion, and Vanessa’s unraveling secrets — all delivered with such intensity that I found myself holding my breath more than once.
Dryw captures the menace and unpredictability of Hayden flawlessly, while Louise brings so much depth and vulnerability to Vanessa that you can feel her fear, guilt, and desperation. Together, they create an immersive experience that makes the twists hit even harder.
If you love thrillers that keep your pulse racing and make you question everyone, the audiobook is an absolute must. These narrators don’t just tell the story — they pull you straight into the chaos
February 5, 2024
This incredibly complex psychological suspense delves into the minds of some deeply troubled characters, but with so many good twists, it was hard to take it all in. But I did, biting my lip, as I read the unfolding nightmare that faces Vanessa and her husband, Curtis. It starts in the bustling seaside town, Whitstable, in which the couple and their children find their dream home. Yet when an ex from her past turns up uninvited, it is impossible to predict the secrets about to be unravelled and there are so many threads to this. From the terrifying 'whisper troll' stories she's been fed by her warped mother, to an acid trip that almost destroys her mind, she comes through as a fighter, someone willing to do anything to protect her family from harm.
Horrifying in parts and a bit gory, this is a novel you won't want to put down once you've started it. Another cracking good read from this author.
Horrifying in parts and a bit gory, this is a novel you won't want to put down once you've started it. Another cracking good read from this author.
May 14, 2024
This book started out with a bang! It did have a little bit of a slow down with the introducing of characters and back stories. But once it picked up again, it definitely got interesting. So many twists. I didn't see most of them coming! It seems everyone had a secret and no one wanted it out!! It is never a good thing when a ex shows up unexpectedly and this book is no different! Most (if not all) of the characters were unlikeable at times. But there were also relatable because no one was perfect. I enjoyed the rollercoaster of a ride that this book took me on.
I had the pleasure of receiving an audiobook narrated by Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield. They flowed together well. Usually when I listen to a book, it has one narrator. So it was a nice change to have the 2 narrators, each voicing their gender characters. Made it easier to keep up with everyone! There did seem to be quite a few characters at the beginning but I was able to adjust and keep track pretty quickly. These 2 really brought the characters to life. I was reading along with the ebook but the audiobook definitely kept my attention better.
If you love the other books by this author, I am sure you will love this one too!
I had the pleasure of receiving an audiobook narrated by Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield. They flowed together well. Usually when I listen to a book, it has one narrator. So it was a nice change to have the 2 narrators, each voicing their gender characters. Made it easier to keep up with everyone! There did seem to be quite a few characters at the beginning but I was able to adjust and keep track pretty quickly. These 2 really brought the characters to life. I was reading along with the ebook but the audiobook definitely kept my attention better.
If you love the other books by this author, I am sure you will love this one too!
June 21, 2023
What do you do when someone you used to love, someone who knows everything about you wants nothing more than to completely distort you? How do you avoid them when they know everything about you, everything you do and everywhere you go? What a horrible and completely exhaustingly scary thing to have to live through. The author gives us a story akin to this. Something real, very tangible and could happen to any of us. We are taken to a place where something we used to love and trust becomes a nightmare. The author writes the nightmare so well. We are completely transported to the place our main character must live and then taken to the edge…what would you do to protect yourself, your life and those you love. I loved this book and every page it offered!
July 21, 2023
Chilling
I read this book relatively quickly. I had hopes for a juicy back story. To me it seemed the author tried to make Vanessa a tough badass, who had a tough life and had the worst kind of life changing event that she was part of, she got just as screwed in the event as anyone else. She wasn’t this super disturbed, self destructive, menace to society, but she was just a normal dramatic teenage girl. Her poor husband was a big wuss and had plenty of times to stand up and be a man with a backbone, although the incident between he and Russell was a good tension moment and the fight towards the end as well as the car chase. I did enjoy the book I was just expecting a little more catching story with the teenagers. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I read this book relatively quickly. I had hopes for a juicy back story. To me it seemed the author tried to make Vanessa a tough badass, who had a tough life and had the worst kind of life changing event that she was part of, she got just as screwed in the event as anyone else. She wasn’t this super disturbed, self destructive, menace to society, but she was just a normal dramatic teenage girl. Her poor husband was a big wuss and had plenty of times to stand up and be a man with a backbone, although the incident between he and Russell was a good tension moment and the fight towards the end as well as the car chase. I did enjoy the book I was just expecting a little more catching story with the teenagers. I look forward to reading more from this author.
August 29, 2023
This book was definitely more domestic suspense than true thriller. There were MANY moving pieces and storylines, and they kind of crashed together jarringly. It definitely has potential, but could use more of an editorial eye to pull it all together more cohesively.
I wish there was more of a storyline from other points of view, and less epistolary flashbacks that really only set up a tiny part of the story. Or alternatively, I wish that more of the story had been told in epistolary format, and it spanned the entire past history that the MC was aware of.
I wish there was more of a storyline from other points of view, and less epistolary flashbacks that really only set up a tiny part of the story. Or alternatively, I wish that more of the story had been told in epistolary format, and it spanned the entire past history that the MC was aware of.
April 13, 2024
This one is completely enthralling! It has twists I did not see coming! I was really surprised even once I thought I knew what was going to happen after the shock. I don’t want to give anything away but trust me…this is a good one! An amazing listen and I would love more from this author. Twisted psychological stories are a perfect way to end my week! I listened to this on audio. Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield are both new to me narrators. They each did an amazing job portraying these characters and I would listen to them again.
April 14, 2024
The Visit is a psychological thriller about Vanessa and Curtis and is told from both of their points of view. I don't usually read thrillers, but I enjoyed this one.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to a new house, but when Hayden (Vanessa's ex) shows up things start happening.
This book had so many twists and turns as well as secrets that came out. I never knew which way it was going to go next. I would love to give more books by this author a try, and I enjoyed the narrators picked for this book.
Vanessa and Curtis have just moved to a new house, but when Hayden (Vanessa's ex) shows up things start happening.
This book had so many twists and turns as well as secrets that came out. I never knew which way it was going to go next. I would love to give more books by this author a try, and I enjoyed the narrators picked for this book.
April 15, 2024
I loved the dual narration of Dryw McArthur and Louise Rook Schofield
Vanessa has it all, a beautiful home, an amazing husband, and two beautiful kids. While entertaining one night Curtis her answers the front door . Nothing is the same again.
The visitor is Hayden an ex that Vanessa hasn't seen since she was sixteen. Vanessa is not happy to see the crude disrespectful Haydon. It becomes clear that Vanessa isn't happy to see him. Curtis to wonder what she is hiding. With Hayden around Vanessa and Curtis seem to be drifting apart. He is taking them down a dark path.
A great thriller.
Vanessa has it all, a beautiful home, an amazing husband, and two beautiful kids. While entertaining one night Curtis her answers the front door . Nothing is the same again.
The visitor is Hayden an ex that Vanessa hasn't seen since she was sixteen. Vanessa is not happy to see the crude disrespectful Haydon. It becomes clear that Vanessa isn't happy to see him. Curtis to wonder what she is hiding. With Hayden around Vanessa and Curtis seem to be drifting apart. He is taking them down a dark path.
A great thriller.
May 1, 2024
Well this read is the epitome of one’s past ‘coming back to haunt them’. It’s chaotic, mysterious, funny at times in a dry way, and has sporadic bits of action sprinkled in.
If you enjoy qualities like betrayal, scandal, cold-cases, years-long scheming, and unhinged characters with a thirst for vengeance, you’ll like this.
Based on this experience—my first with this author—I’d be open to more.
Written in third-person POV, alternating.
🎧 Audio:
Excellent!
Dual narration and both were excellent. Paired with the high-quality overall quality, this is a 5-star listen.
If you enjoy qualities like betrayal, scandal, cold-cases, years-long scheming, and unhinged characters with a thirst for vengeance, you’ll like this.
Based on this experience—my first with this author—I’d be open to more.
Written in third-person POV, alternating.
🎧 Audio:
Excellent!
Dual narration and both were excellent. Paired with the high-quality overall quality, this is a 5-star listen.
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