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The Weatherman
'I'm going to tell you about the worst thing that ever happened to me.'
Will's a nice guy. So when he takes a shortcut to the tube station after a few beers with his mates from work, he steps out of the way of the fellow who's staggering towards him. But he – deliberately – moves back into his path. They knock each other as they pass.
Moments later one man is dead and another's life is changed forever. Or is it? There are no CCTV cameras. There was no one else in the out-of-the-way alley. Maybe the world doesn't have to end for Will after all.
But there's always someone watching . . . and Will's life is about to implode.
Will's a nice guy. So when he takes a shortcut to the tube station after a few beers with his mates from work, he steps out of the way of the fellow who's staggering towards him. But he – deliberately – moves back into his path. They knock each other as they pass.
Moments later one man is dead and another's life is changed forever. Or is it? There are no CCTV cameras. There was no one else in the out-of-the-way alley. Maybe the world doesn't have to end for Will after all.
But there's always someone watching . . . and Will's life is about to implode.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2023
23 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 24, 2023
Debut psychological/thriller with more than a hint of menace
What happens when you accidentally do something you could live to regret but ‘get away with’…..you live in fear you might be found out…and when you are the nightmare really starts
Will is a good character, he is chaotic, frantic and anxious but then he has a need to be but underlying it all he is a decent bloke
Solly the other main character in the book is not, he makes rancid seem acceptable, the descriptions of him are brilliantly repulsive and the author builds a very clear picture of someone you never want to meet or deal with
The story is good, very fast paced and you never quite know what will happen
An author to look out for without doubt and a book that will have you thinking about what you would do in Will’s situation
What happens when you accidentally do something you could live to regret but ‘get away with’…..you live in fear you might be found out…and when you are the nightmare really starts
Will is a good character, he is chaotic, frantic and anxious but then he has a need to be but underlying it all he is a decent bloke
Solly the other main character in the book is not, he makes rancid seem acceptable, the descriptions of him are brilliantly repulsive and the author builds a very clear picture of someone you never want to meet or deal with
The story is good, very fast paced and you never quite know what will happen
An author to look out for without doubt and a book that will have you thinking about what you would do in Will’s situation
January 6, 2024
Will’s on his way home after a few beers in the pub with his workmates. As he walks down a quiet path he notices someone staggering menacingly towards him. Will’s not a fighting man so he tries to avoid a confrontation but then, it all goes horribly wrong.
Luckily the street is deserted and no one saw what actually happened. Or did they?
This book grabs you right from the very start. Written in the first person, solely from Will’s perspective, it’s quickly evident that Will is the most normal, decent, down-to-earth guy. So there’s an instant connection with his reactions of outrage, horror and panic. This could happen to anyone. And as the story develops I could empathise all the more. How the hell is Will going to get out of this one, I constantly wondered, whilst furiously turning the pages!
It really is such a fast paced plot, which reads with mounting horror. The short snappy chapters are perfect for enhancing the tension and I have to say that I genuinely couldn’t put this one down. But - I was also enjoying it so much that I didn’t want it to end, honestly the struggle was real!
And I can’t finish this review without a special mention about one of the characters. Solly. Just wait til you meet him. He was skin crawlingly hideous! He gave me the absolute creeps and he nailed this story for me. Imagine a modern day Rumpelstilstkin wreaking chaos and unrest, cause that’s exactly what he reminded me of.
The Weatherman is a debut novel, hard though that is to believe. Tense, immersive and electrifying. If you want a book to get lost in, that you can’t put down and that will take you away from the misery of January, then go and buy this one now - you can thank me later. 🤗😂
Luckily the street is deserted and no one saw what actually happened. Or did they?
This book grabs you right from the very start. Written in the first person, solely from Will’s perspective, it’s quickly evident that Will is the most normal, decent, down-to-earth guy. So there’s an instant connection with his reactions of outrage, horror and panic. This could happen to anyone. And as the story develops I could empathise all the more. How the hell is Will going to get out of this one, I constantly wondered, whilst furiously turning the pages!
It really is such a fast paced plot, which reads with mounting horror. The short snappy chapters are perfect for enhancing the tension and I have to say that I genuinely couldn’t put this one down. But - I was also enjoying it so much that I didn’t want it to end, honestly the struggle was real!
And I can’t finish this review without a special mention about one of the characters. Solly. Just wait til you meet him. He was skin crawlingly hideous! He gave me the absolute creeps and he nailed this story for me. Imagine a modern day Rumpelstilstkin wreaking chaos and unrest, cause that’s exactly what he reminded me of.
The Weatherman is a debut novel, hard though that is to believe. Tense, immersive and electrifying. If you want a book to get lost in, that you can’t put down and that will take you away from the misery of January, then go and buy this one now - you can thank me later. 🤗😂
September 16, 2024
This story follows nice guy Will, who, after a night out with work colleagues, ends up a murderer.
This book is a slow burn but nicely paced. I was hooked and found it engaging with twists I didn't see coming. It highlights how quickly life can change.
Written as a single POV, the main character has been crafted so well that at times he is relatable, especially when it comes to mental health.
With short chapters and an engaging story, I highly recommend this book to those who love psychological thrillers.
This book is a slow burn but nicely paced. I was hooked and found it engaging with twists I didn't see coming. It highlights how quickly life can change.
Written as a single POV, the main character has been crafted so well that at times he is relatable, especially when it comes to mental health.
With short chapters and an engaging story, I highly recommend this book to those who love psychological thrillers.
October 9, 2024
The ending of this book did not match up to the rest of it.
It starts of strongly, the main protagonist Will is on his way home one night when he gets into a fight that changes his life for ever. What follows is Will's difficulties in dealing with it, the lengths he goes to hide the truth from his friends and authorities and then the problems that brings upon himself when someone contacts him to see they had witnessed it all.
So after that strong start and decent middle stages of the book, I was really invested in how it all ended up. However the police side of story was pretty disappointing for me, and how Will deals with the other main characters (particularly the person who says they have witnessed it all) just seemed to drift into a bit of nothingness. Which is a shame.
So over I have scored a 2* book because for the first 2/3rds of it, I was intrigued and invested in it but when I completed the story I just felt a bit meh!.
It starts of strongly, the main protagonist Will is on his way home one night when he gets into a fight that changes his life for ever. What follows is Will's difficulties in dealing with it, the lengths he goes to hide the truth from his friends and authorities and then the problems that brings upon himself when someone contacts him to see they had witnessed it all.
So after that strong start and decent middle stages of the book, I was really invested in how it all ended up. However the police side of story was pretty disappointing for me, and how Will deals with the other main characters (particularly the person who says they have witnessed it all) just seemed to drift into a bit of nothingness. Which is a shame.
So over I have scored a 2* book because for the first 2/3rds of it, I was intrigued and invested in it but when I completed the story I just felt a bit meh!.
December 7, 2023
This was a clever and thought-provoking psychological thriller that had me on edge throughout.
When Will finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, an incident with a stranger, ends in a fatality.
I really loved that we follow this from the main character's pov and so with everything happening within the storyline, this still really allows us to feel the pressure and torment of his dilemma.
I really felt for him because although it's easy to think you know what you'd do in this situation - it really got me thinking about how he was reacting and whether it was a decision many of us would make.
The short chapters made this a great paced book and there was always something happening to hold your attention - with the added twists and turns keeping you wondering how things would work out.
A well written book - especially for a debut novel - I'm excited to see what might come next from this author.
When Will finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, an incident with a stranger, ends in a fatality.
I really loved that we follow this from the main character's pov and so with everything happening within the storyline, this still really allows us to feel the pressure and torment of his dilemma.
I really felt for him because although it's easy to think you know what you'd do in this situation - it really got me thinking about how he was reacting and whether it was a decision many of us would make.
The short chapters made this a great paced book and there was always something happening to hold your attention - with the added twists and turns keeping you wondering how things would work out.
A well written book - especially for a debut novel - I'm excited to see what might come next from this author.
November 15, 2023
So, as the synopsis tells you, Will leaves the pub, bumps into a man and the man falls and dies. Instead of phoning the police, he decides to go home and say nothing. There is surely no way the police will be aware of what happened. He is right the police don't really but someone is arrested and then Will is full of dread as things begin to unfold.
This was a great read, initially, I thought it was a bit slow and it did take a while before the major twists and turns started to build up the intensity of this story. But, my goodness, the author went full throttle with his story when it did.
Will is introduced as are his friends, the police detectives and another character. The synopsis does state that there is always someone watching and this watcher has a huge amount of tension and drama to add. It makes Will question himself and tests him to the limit. What will he do to protect himself and can he?
Will is a likeable character and he does come across as being down to earth. But this one event changes him, he becomes reclusive and withdraws. Past things are mentioned about his mental state and this works well within the story as it gives credence to how Will deals with things.
It is a scenario that you would think would never happen to you. What would you do? Will makes the wrong decision, but that does not mean that everyone will make the right decision. When faced with a scenario you like to think you would do the right thing. In this story though, Will goes further than just trying to evade what has happened and things start to become more twisted. The police are doing their job but there are some things that just don't quite fit.
This is a tense story and one that gradually added more twists the more I read. It started as a slow-burner for me but one that got under my skin so that I could not put it down. A fabulous story that became a one-sitting read and would appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and crime. I would definitely recommend it.
This was a great read, initially, I thought it was a bit slow and it did take a while before the major twists and turns started to build up the intensity of this story. But, my goodness, the author went full throttle with his story when it did.
Will is introduced as are his friends, the police detectives and another character. The synopsis does state that there is always someone watching and this watcher has a huge amount of tension and drama to add. It makes Will question himself and tests him to the limit. What will he do to protect himself and can he?
Will is a likeable character and he does come across as being down to earth. But this one event changes him, he becomes reclusive and withdraws. Past things are mentioned about his mental state and this works well within the story as it gives credence to how Will deals with things.
It is a scenario that you would think would never happen to you. What would you do? Will makes the wrong decision, but that does not mean that everyone will make the right decision. When faced with a scenario you like to think you would do the right thing. In this story though, Will goes further than just trying to evade what has happened and things start to become more twisted. The police are doing their job but there are some things that just don't quite fit.
This is a tense story and one that gradually added more twists the more I read. It started as a slow-burner for me but one that got under my skin so that I could not put it down. A fabulous story that became a one-sitting read and would appeal to fans of psychological thrillers and crime. I would definitely recommend it.
December 28, 2024
This thriller kept me reading and reading, needing to know how the events would unfold and how the protagonist would find a solution to the sticky situation he put himself in, one fateful night.
Have you ever considered how easily your life could change, just like that, just one little choice could turn your life upside down completely! And that is exactly what happened to Will one night walking home. Not only a quick choice could change your life, but also your behaviour after the event could modify your entire self, until your life becomes a living nightmare.
This is a brilliant thriller focused entirely on two protagonists and their behaviour and also on the reader’s expectations of their demeanour. I couldn’t believe how Will kept digging his own grave and how slimy and punchable Solly was! This is probably one of the rarest times I didn’t know who to side with! But the clever plot and writing kept me interested until the end.
Alas, the ending is where I felt the book lacked a bit asI found it a bit anticlimactic. After all that happened, I expected a different closure, but at least there was one.
All in all, this was a compelling thriller that had me change my mind several times. Also, I didn’t have any idea of where the story would go until the end. I can’t wait to read more from this author based on this book!
Thanks to the author for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
Have you ever considered how easily your life could change, just like that, just one little choice could turn your life upside down completely! And that is exactly what happened to Will one night walking home. Not only a quick choice could change your life, but also your behaviour after the event could modify your entire self, until your life becomes a living nightmare.
This is a brilliant thriller focused entirely on two protagonists and their behaviour and also on the reader’s expectations of their demeanour. I couldn’t believe how Will kept digging his own grave and how slimy and punchable Solly was! This is probably one of the rarest times I didn’t know who to side with! But the clever plot and writing kept me interested until the end.
Alas, the ending is where I felt the book lacked a bit asI found it a bit anticlimactic. After all that happened, I expected a different closure, but at least there was one.
All in all, this was a compelling thriller that had me change my mind several times. Also, I didn’t have any idea of where the story would go until the end. I can’t wait to read more from this author based on this book!
Thanks to the author for a copy and this is my honest opinion.
December 31, 2023
It’s s great example of how quickly life can change – one minute all your ducks are in a row and the next you might or might not have committed a crime. The kind of crime that has the potential to destroy your life. Knowing that, would you put yourself at risk by doing the right thing?
Will likes to tell himself and us that he is a nice guy. Do nice guys commit crimes and then try to hide the fact – just walk away as if nothing ever happened at all. And what if someone else was aware of your secret and decided to profit from your fear and desperation? This element of feeling watched, judged and waiting to be exposed makes Will retreat into a former lived version of himself.
It’s a riveting psychological thriller that plays with the grey areas between right and wrong, what is morally right when it comes to self preservation, and isn’t it I wondered whether the introduction of Solly was more than just the nemesis. Was Solly the physical representation of Will’s other more surprising character traits? The dark side that is obviously there inside just waiting to pop out.
Imagine Solly as the physical representation of a conscience and simultaneously also of the depths someone will go to to hide their true nature, especially when it gets them into trouble.
Will likes to tell himself and us that he is a nice guy. Do nice guys commit crimes and then try to hide the fact – just walk away as if nothing ever happened at all. And what if someone else was aware of your secret and decided to profit from your fear and desperation? This element of feeling watched, judged and waiting to be exposed makes Will retreat into a former lived version of himself.
It’s a riveting psychological thriller that plays with the grey areas between right and wrong, what is morally right when it comes to self preservation, and isn’t it I wondered whether the introduction of Solly was more than just the nemesis. Was Solly the physical representation of Will’s other more surprising character traits? The dark side that is obviously there inside just waiting to pop out.
Imagine Solly as the physical representation of a conscience and simultaneously also of the depths someone will go to to hide their true nature, especially when it gets them into trouble.
January 30, 2024
From the start I was hooked with the straight to the point narrative and opening chapters were brilliantly written. Will is a nice guy (well so he says) but one normal night out turns Mr Nice Guys life upside down. An error in judgement/accident with being in the wrong place/wrong time scenario that leads Will to looking over his shoulder thinking he might just have got away with it but then boom, the skin crawling bloke ‘Solly’ that a booksta friend mentioned comes along. Omg Solly is disgusting. He is devious, creepy and a complete repulsive little weasel. Credit to Royston for bringing him to life with the vivid descriptions. I could imagine David Tennant or Reece Shearsmith playing Solly (not that I’m saying they are repulsive weasels, but they are fantastic actors!)
Although Will should be shown some disdain, I did have sympathy for him. His anxiety was palpable with him living in constant fear.
This is a brilliantly plotted psychological thriller that shows big brother is always watching and it isn’t necessarily CCTV!
I would have liked to know about Solly’s background but as he is such an unforgettable character i award all the stars.
A fantastic debut and highly recommend to any thriller fan.
Although Will should be shown some disdain, I did have sympathy for him. His anxiety was palpable with him living in constant fear.
This is a brilliantly plotted psychological thriller that shows big brother is always watching and it isn’t necessarily CCTV!
I would have liked to know about Solly’s background but as he is such an unforgettable character i award all the stars.
A fantastic debut and highly recommend to any thriller fan.
November 21, 2023
What a brilliant book! For a debut, it's making me excited to read more from Royston! I loved the characters of Wilbur and Ellie, they really seem genuine and relateable people. Wilbur, caught in the wrong place at the wrong time turns his world upside down. The suspense builds up and the emotions are on high alert, for the reader and for Wilbur!
The whole storyline of this book gripped me and I wanted to read on to see how it played out. The addition of Solly puts a whole new spin on it and it's scary the extent he goes to! What does he really want from Wilbur? Sometimes, you need to play them at their own game to see who wins. I love a good thriller and this one definitely didn't disappoint! It kept me entertained, wanting more and I loved the twist! Very engaging story, likeable characters. I was intrigued by the book's title and blurb and it's worth a read! It really does show that you never know who's watching!
Look forward to more from Royston in the future!
The whole storyline of this book gripped me and I wanted to read on to see how it played out. The addition of Solly puts a whole new spin on it and it's scary the extent he goes to! What does he really want from Wilbur? Sometimes, you need to play them at their own game to see who wins. I love a good thriller and this one definitely didn't disappoint! It kept me entertained, wanting more and I loved the twist! Very engaging story, likeable characters. I was intrigued by the book's title and blurb and it's worth a read! It really does show that you never know who's watching!
Look forward to more from Royston in the future!
December 4, 2023
Will joined his work buddies for a drink at the pub. He makes his way back home after having a few drinks. Then, he comes across a man walking towards him and a conflict ensued that turned his life upside down.
Living with the fear of being found out for something you regret, but managed to escape the consequences, becomes a true nightmare when the truth is revealed.
I was deeply engrossed by the story of this book, eager to keep reading and find out what had happened. The inclusion of Solly gives it a whole new perspective, and it's unnerving how much he pushes the boundaries. What is his real objective in seeking something from Wilbur? Sometimes, you have to play their game to find out who wins. I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller, and it lived up to my expectations. It held my attention, left me hungry for more, and the twist was fantastic! You'll find this story to be engaging with likeable characters. This just goes to show that you never know who might be watching!
A fantastic debut, and looking forward to what Royston comes up with!.
Many thanks to @royston_reeves & @RandomTTours for a spot on the tour.
Living with the fear of being found out for something you regret, but managed to escape the consequences, becomes a true nightmare when the truth is revealed.
I was deeply engrossed by the story of this book, eager to keep reading and find out what had happened. The inclusion of Solly gives it a whole new perspective, and it's unnerving how much he pushes the boundaries. What is his real objective in seeking something from Wilbur? Sometimes, you have to play their game to find out who wins. I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller, and it lived up to my expectations. It held my attention, left me hungry for more, and the twist was fantastic! You'll find this story to be engaging with likeable characters. This just goes to show that you never know who might be watching!
A fantastic debut, and looking forward to what Royston comes up with!.
Many thanks to @royston_reeves & @RandomTTours for a spot on the tour.
December 26, 2023
You’re walking home from the pub; an obnoxious guy walking towards you steps in your way and deliberately walks into you. He calls you a vulgar name and you react in a way that will turn your life upside down.
This is what happens to Will, an ordinary guy who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there was no CCTV and no witnesses so he may just get away with it, until he finds out someone did see the whole thing.
This is a well written, thought-provoking, psychological thriller that makes you continuously ask yourself, what would I do in that situation? It is a well paced, easy to read novel that has a menacing theme throughout and you never know what is going to happen next.
In conclusion, an enjoyable debut novel from a talented author.
This is what happens to Will, an ordinary guy who finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time. But there was no CCTV and no witnesses so he may just get away with it, until he finds out someone did see the whole thing.
This is a well written, thought-provoking, psychological thriller that makes you continuously ask yourself, what would I do in that situation? It is a well paced, easy to read novel that has a menacing theme throughout and you never know what is going to happen next.
In conclusion, an enjoyable debut novel from a talented author.
October 17, 2023
Will went to the pub with some of his friends from work. After a few drinks he made his way home. He then encountered a man walking towards him and there was an altercation that left his life in turmoil.
Lots of twist and turns in this story that kept me entertained.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bedford Square Publishers for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lots of twist and turns in this story that kept me entertained.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bedford Square Publishers for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2023
The writing was light and engaging. I got sucked in very quickly and looked forward to picking it back up at each reading session. What I particularly appreciated was that whilst lots of things kept happening, it was all happening to the main character so it wasn't hard to keep up and I didn't feel bogged down.
There was a mix of chapter lengths, but they all tended to be on the short side. This gave a good pace to the book and kept the story moving. The chapters connected well which also gave a good flow to the book. I just wanted to keep on reading!
The characters were excellent. I really felt for the main character and worried on his behalf! I also particularly enjoyed reading about the supporting cast. The secondary character (Solly) was intriguing. I couldn't make him out. His personality was so confusing which made for a more interesting read! There were a couple of twists which I didn't see coming and also as the reader I was led down several different paths as to what could to happen. This kept me on my toes.
Lastly the settings. I liked the darkness of where the accident took place. It exuded secrecy and intrigue.
Overall a great Thriller that you can read without feeling bogged down. I recommend.
There was a mix of chapter lengths, but they all tended to be on the short side. This gave a good pace to the book and kept the story moving. The chapters connected well which also gave a good flow to the book. I just wanted to keep on reading!
The characters were excellent. I really felt for the main character and worried on his behalf! I also particularly enjoyed reading about the supporting cast. The secondary character (Solly) was intriguing. I couldn't make him out. His personality was so confusing which made for a more interesting read! There were a couple of twists which I didn't see coming and also as the reader I was led down several different paths as to what could to happen. This kept me on my toes.
Lastly the settings. I liked the darkness of where the accident took place. It exuded secrecy and intrigue.
Overall a great Thriller that you can read without feeling bogged down. I recommend.
September 21, 2024
This book was defo 4 stars until the ending, had soooo much potential but sadly a flop for me :(
Everyone lived happily ever after…
Everyone lived happily ever after…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2023
A thrilling read, like a slow-burning fuse attached to ... a mystery explosive keg tucked away who knew where! Looking forward already to Royston's next work.
November 29, 2023
The Weather Man is fantastic debut from Reeve, it's fresh, fast paced and was such an easy read to get caught up in for several hours.
When you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, what do you do? I think I'd be very much like Will and just want to get the hell outta there, without even thinking of the consequences. It certainly gets you thinking...
Chapter wise they're short, snappy and made it so easy to fall foul of the 'one more chapter' before bed, and before I knew it I'd finished the book.
It has brilliant, likeable characters, a great plot and an awesome twist!
When you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time, what do you do? I think I'd be very much like Will and just want to get the hell outta there, without even thinking of the consequences. It certainly gets you thinking...
Chapter wise they're short, snappy and made it so easy to fall foul of the 'one more chapter' before bed, and before I knew it I'd finished the book.
It has brilliant, likeable characters, a great plot and an awesome twist!
August 12, 2024
Well that ending was a load of rubbish…. They all lived happily ever after.
Really thought this would have a huge twist at the end - I was so sure that Ellie the girlfriend had some part in all of it and she turned out to be a total nothing character which was disappointing.
The character of Solly was really flat too and Will as a main character I found really unlikeable. I was actually abit disappointed when it turned out ….SPOILER ALERT….. That he’d not actually killed the bloke.
This was all in all just abit rubbish. Rubbish characters, rubbish plot, rubbish ending.
Really thought this would have a huge twist at the end - I was so sure that Ellie the girlfriend had some part in all of it and she turned out to be a total nothing character which was disappointing.
The character of Solly was really flat too and Will as a main character I found really unlikeable. I was actually abit disappointed when it turned out ….SPOILER ALERT….. That he’d not actually killed the bloke.
This was all in all just abit rubbish. Rubbish characters, rubbish plot, rubbish ending.
September 25, 2025
This book was super intriguing, I think in part because it could happen to anyone in terms of the incident the book centres around. Indeed, such outcomes have been recorded in the news. The book’s short chapters kept me engaged and wanting more. Elements were twisty, but I did find some things a little repetitive and drawn out - I also think that the title was a little bit misleading. That being said, I’m really interested to see what the author does in other novels and I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for any future releases by this author! 3.75⭐️.
December 3, 2023
This was a four star until the ending started to become clear. The ending was not good at all.
April 14, 2024
Thought it was great until the ending
November 23, 2023
What is the thing you’re most afraid of and what would you do to avoid it?
This book is an absolutely wild read from start to finish! It kicks off with the worst thing that has ever happened to main character and narrator Wilbur (Will) Cox. Will works an average job at an average advertising firm in London. He’s out with the lads from work one night at a pub and leaves just before the game ends, taking his usual shortcut to get to the train station.
He sees a man staggering towards him and does his best to veer out of the way to give him space. But the man goes straight towards him, shoulder checking him and uttering an insult his way. Will can’t help himself, he reacts by throwing a punch at the man’s face and seeing him go down. While he initially goes to leave, he can’t help but turn around to make sure the man is ok. But when he tries to rouse and help him up, he notices a pool of blood under the man’s head and a quick pulse check reveals the man is dead.
Will staggers home, terrified by what just occurred and the potential consequences he may face. He takes some medicine to help him sleep and passes out. When he wakes the next morning, he realizes he is very late for work and even worse, the news is broadcasting the news of the murder. Will jumps to action, getting rid of the clothes he was wearing and returning to the scene to check for CCTV camera footage.
When the police come by his work, Will is petrified that they caught him. But it appears Will may have lucked out, the two cameras directly towards the alley were broken, and another man has been arrested for the murder. In the days following the incident, Will does his best to put it out of his mind. He even meets a girl, Ellie, who he’s interested in. Everything is coming up in Will’s favor, or is it?
Will is digging through his wallet, looking for cash to get fish and chips and he finds a flash drive and a note. Someone knows what happened. He rushes home and the flash drive contains a video of the incident. Will’s head is spinning—how did someone get this footage? And who is it? Furthermore, what do they want?
Will doesn’t have to wait long before he finds out the answer to the first two questions. A man named Solly who looks like a seedier version of the weatherman from television gets in touch with Will. At first, Will thinks maybe Solly really won’t turn him in. It isn’t clear what exactly Solly wants by getting in touch with Will about a recording he allegedly took accidentally. But one thing is clear, Solly has an agenda and Will needs to find out what it is before he ends up in prison.
This story is action packed and when I said it had me in a chokehold, I meant it! The plot was so tense I could barely breathe while reading it, desperate to know if it would resolve and how. Reeves puts the reader close enough to what Will is going through that even if the reader wouldn’t have made the same actions or choices, it was easy to see how he became trapped in this labyrinth that he couldn’t escape from.
The police are very interested in continuing to talk to Will, and this added another layer to the story. It wasn’t simply that Solly had the tape, but it was also the knowledge that the police were still actively gathering information on the murder, even though they had a suspect in custody.
Solly was a grotesque figure. When Reeves describes him, the reader will get a jolt of revulsion at the greasy, slimy, decayed look of Solly. He’s a funhouse mirror version of the weatherman from tv. In fact Will at one point considers whether it could possibly be the same man gone to seed, then quickly dismisses it.
Though I often felt physically disgusted by Solly, I was also fascinated by him. It felt like Will was having an ongoing negotiation with Rumpelstiltskin, constantly circling around into another game, never sure what Solly’s ultimate goal was. And ultimately, that became the crux of the story. Solly had a hold hanging over Will that only outthinking and understanding what Solly was truly trying to achieve through these games might help. Solly is such a slippery figure, shifting constantly each time Will would try and resolve things or get to the bottom of what was happening.
I recommend this book to readers who like a psychologically tense and fast-paced novel. I was hooked from the first chapter. Reeves keeps the story tight, with no extraneous scenes. Will’s story covers months, starting the night of the murder and progressing through into the new year. Some phases show the police more interested in talking to him, and others focus more on Will and Ellie’s relationship plus Solly. Will is keeping a lot from Ellie, and he likes the distraction and normalcy she brings, while knowing he isn’t being his most authentic self with her. Solly and his interactions were terrifying and fascinating.
The spiral towards the conclusion had me glued to the book. This is a story for readers who like twists and turns in their novels!
Thank you to Ann from Random Things Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
This book is an absolutely wild read from start to finish! It kicks off with the worst thing that has ever happened to main character and narrator Wilbur (Will) Cox. Will works an average job at an average advertising firm in London. He’s out with the lads from work one night at a pub and leaves just before the game ends, taking his usual shortcut to get to the train station.
He sees a man staggering towards him and does his best to veer out of the way to give him space. But the man goes straight towards him, shoulder checking him and uttering an insult his way. Will can’t help himself, he reacts by throwing a punch at the man’s face and seeing him go down. While he initially goes to leave, he can’t help but turn around to make sure the man is ok. But when he tries to rouse and help him up, he notices a pool of blood under the man’s head and a quick pulse check reveals the man is dead.
Will staggers home, terrified by what just occurred and the potential consequences he may face. He takes some medicine to help him sleep and passes out. When he wakes the next morning, he realizes he is very late for work and even worse, the news is broadcasting the news of the murder. Will jumps to action, getting rid of the clothes he was wearing and returning to the scene to check for CCTV camera footage.
When the police come by his work, Will is petrified that they caught him. But it appears Will may have lucked out, the two cameras directly towards the alley were broken, and another man has been arrested for the murder. In the days following the incident, Will does his best to put it out of his mind. He even meets a girl, Ellie, who he’s interested in. Everything is coming up in Will’s favor, or is it?
Will is digging through his wallet, looking for cash to get fish and chips and he finds a flash drive and a note. Someone knows what happened. He rushes home and the flash drive contains a video of the incident. Will’s head is spinning—how did someone get this footage? And who is it? Furthermore, what do they want?
Will doesn’t have to wait long before he finds out the answer to the first two questions. A man named Solly who looks like a seedier version of the weatherman from television gets in touch with Will. At first, Will thinks maybe Solly really won’t turn him in. It isn’t clear what exactly Solly wants by getting in touch with Will about a recording he allegedly took accidentally. But one thing is clear, Solly has an agenda and Will needs to find out what it is before he ends up in prison.
This story is action packed and when I said it had me in a chokehold, I meant it! The plot was so tense I could barely breathe while reading it, desperate to know if it would resolve and how. Reeves puts the reader close enough to what Will is going through that even if the reader wouldn’t have made the same actions or choices, it was easy to see how he became trapped in this labyrinth that he couldn’t escape from.
The police are very interested in continuing to talk to Will, and this added another layer to the story. It wasn’t simply that Solly had the tape, but it was also the knowledge that the police were still actively gathering information on the murder, even though they had a suspect in custody.
Solly was a grotesque figure. When Reeves describes him, the reader will get a jolt of revulsion at the greasy, slimy, decayed look of Solly. He’s a funhouse mirror version of the weatherman from tv. In fact Will at one point considers whether it could possibly be the same man gone to seed, then quickly dismisses it.
Though I often felt physically disgusted by Solly, I was also fascinated by him. It felt like Will was having an ongoing negotiation with Rumpelstiltskin, constantly circling around into another game, never sure what Solly’s ultimate goal was. And ultimately, that became the crux of the story. Solly had a hold hanging over Will that only outthinking and understanding what Solly was truly trying to achieve through these games might help. Solly is such a slippery figure, shifting constantly each time Will would try and resolve things or get to the bottom of what was happening.
I recommend this book to readers who like a psychologically tense and fast-paced novel. I was hooked from the first chapter. Reeves keeps the story tight, with no extraneous scenes. Will’s story covers months, starting the night of the murder and progressing through into the new year. Some phases show the police more interested in talking to him, and others focus more on Will and Ellie’s relationship plus Solly. Will is keeping a lot from Ellie, and he likes the distraction and normalcy she brings, while knowing he isn’t being his most authentic self with her. Solly and his interactions were terrifying and fascinating.
The spiral towards the conclusion had me glued to the book. This is a story for readers who like twists and turns in their novels!
Thank you to Ann from Random Things Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
December 5, 2023
5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT ~ Book Tour
An unbelievable debut keeping you on the edge of your seat. 🔥
Wow! Reeves is one hell of a talented writer. The way he captivates you from the very first sentence, to the very last, is skilful. This book was suspenseful, unpredictable and a real page turner. It only took me four and a half hours to demolish this read!
With very short chapters, a first person narrative and a shocking dilemma, this book made an incredible read. I love a plot that consists of an innocent individual who happens to be in the right place at the wrong time and their world crumbles beneath them, and this book is one of them.
I loved Will’s character. He had his flaws, but don’t we all? The depiction of his depression felt very real and was well handled. He was easy to connect with and I really wanted to help him in the situation he’d abruptly found himself in.
The read also had an unlikable character who made my blood boil, but I loved how tense this made the book feel. The use of manipulation, deceit and gaslighting were clever and added that extra layer to this read, making it really enjoyable.
I haven’t read a book this quickly in a while, but I was truly obsessed with this read and just had to find out what had happened. I constantly placed myself in Will’s shoes and the battle he was facing was awful. Reeves has constructed a proper addictive psychological thriller that I’m sure will be a hit.
A huge thank you to @randomthingstours, @noexitpress and @roystonreevesofficial for having me on this book tour. ❤️
I highly recommend this fast paced thriller which will make a great addition to your list for Santa! 😍
💬:
-‘Everything is as simple as you make it. If you concentrate, you can simplify most situations down to something manageable.’
-‘Bad people don't always get what they deserve, and good people don't always get what they deserve.’
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT ~ Book Tour
An unbelievable debut keeping you on the edge of your seat. 🔥
Wow! Reeves is one hell of a talented writer. The way he captivates you from the very first sentence, to the very last, is skilful. This book was suspenseful, unpredictable and a real page turner. It only took me four and a half hours to demolish this read!
With very short chapters, a first person narrative and a shocking dilemma, this book made an incredible read. I love a plot that consists of an innocent individual who happens to be in the right place at the wrong time and their world crumbles beneath them, and this book is one of them.
I loved Will’s character. He had his flaws, but don’t we all? The depiction of his depression felt very real and was well handled. He was easy to connect with and I really wanted to help him in the situation he’d abruptly found himself in.
The read also had an unlikable character who made my blood boil, but I loved how tense this made the book feel. The use of manipulation, deceit and gaslighting were clever and added that extra layer to this read, making it really enjoyable.
I haven’t read a book this quickly in a while, but I was truly obsessed with this read and just had to find out what had happened. I constantly placed myself in Will’s shoes and the battle he was facing was awful. Reeves has constructed a proper addictive psychological thriller that I’m sure will be a hit.
A huge thank you to @randomthingstours, @noexitpress and @roystonreevesofficial for having me on this book tour. ❤️
I highly recommend this fast paced thriller which will make a great addition to your list for Santa! 😍
💬:
-‘Everything is as simple as you make it. If you concentrate, you can simplify most situations down to something manageable.’
-‘Bad people don't always get what they deserve, and good people don't always get what they deserve.’
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
August 11, 2024
This book is a psychological thriller that grabs you from the start and doesn't let go. The story follows Will, an ordinary guy whose life takes a drastic turn after a random encounter in an alley. One minute he's just trying to get home, and the next, he's caught in a nightmare that changes everything.
The tension in this book is intense. You can really feel Will's panic as he tries to deal with what's happened and the fear that someone's watching him. Will is a character you can relate to—just a normal guy who made one bad decision that turned his life upside down. You can almost feel his anxiety as he tries to figure out how to move forward.
Then there's Solly, who is probably one of the most unsettling characters I've read about in a while. He's manipulative, creepy, and just plain disgusting. The author did an excellent job of making him a character you love to hate. I found myself cringing whenever Solly was on the page, but I couldn't stop reading because I had to know what he was going to do next.
The story moves at a good pace, keeping you hooked until the end. The writing is straightforward, which makes the book easy to read and helps the plot flow smoothly. The lack of CCTV footage and witnesses adds a layer of suspense because it makes you wonder who really saw what happened and what they might do with that information.
The only thing I wished for was more backstory on Solly. He’s such a fascinating character, and knowing more about his past would have made him even more interesting. But even without that, it is a great read for anyone who loves thrillers. It’s one of those books that sticks with you even after you finish it.
If you’re into thrillers, you should definitely check this one out. It’s a page-turner that will keep you guessing and leave you thinking long after you’re done.
The tension in this book is intense. You can really feel Will's panic as he tries to deal with what's happened and the fear that someone's watching him. Will is a character you can relate to—just a normal guy who made one bad decision that turned his life upside down. You can almost feel his anxiety as he tries to figure out how to move forward.
Then there's Solly, who is probably one of the most unsettling characters I've read about in a while. He's manipulative, creepy, and just plain disgusting. The author did an excellent job of making him a character you love to hate. I found myself cringing whenever Solly was on the page, but I couldn't stop reading because I had to know what he was going to do next.
The story moves at a good pace, keeping you hooked until the end. The writing is straightforward, which makes the book easy to read and helps the plot flow smoothly. The lack of CCTV footage and witnesses adds a layer of suspense because it makes you wonder who really saw what happened and what they might do with that information.
The only thing I wished for was more backstory on Solly. He’s such a fascinating character, and knowing more about his past would have made him even more interesting. But even without that, it is a great read for anyone who loves thrillers. It’s one of those books that sticks with you even after you finish it.
If you’re into thrillers, you should definitely check this one out. It’s a page-turner that will keep you guessing and leave you thinking long after you’re done.
December 13, 2023
Will is a normal guy who finds himself in an altercation following a few beers at the pub. A man, acting erratically and putting Will on edge, approaches him on a backstreet on his way home. The man shouts an insult, shoves his shoulder into Will causing Will to lose control and punch him. The man falls and dies almost instantly. Will has killed a man. Only one person saw, though Will has yet to find that out. Will is wracked with guilt after not reporting it and another man is apprehended. The remainder of the novel takes twists and turns with a particularly sinister character leading the chaos. This sinister “watcher” starts to reach out to Will to blackmail him, scare him, and threaten him. This book was way deeper than I anticipated. It explores the ways in which guilt affects us as humans - or how the lack of guilt separates us from normal human behavior. I felt the ending was left a little untidy but otherwise, I was really hooked!
January 2, 2024
Well this was something different - I can't say I ever warmed to Will, but I certainly felt for him and his situation!
I enjoyed watching this story play out, adding complication after complication for poor Will - I kept trying to give advice, but he wasn't listening...
The emotional turmoil of multiple characters was evident. I had a slight suspicion about something, then got so wrapped up in the story, I completely forgot until the end (I hadn't quite guessed it).
I wasn't sure I was going to like the writing style when I first started reading, but I soon settled into it. I felt at the end I wanted more information about one of the characters as they were quite something.
Overall, a great plot that kept evolving over time.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I enjoyed watching this story play out, adding complication after complication for poor Will - I kept trying to give advice, but he wasn't listening...
The emotional turmoil of multiple characters was evident. I had a slight suspicion about something, then got so wrapped up in the story, I completely forgot until the end (I hadn't quite guessed it).
I wasn't sure I was going to like the writing style when I first started reading, but I soon settled into it. I felt at the end I wanted more information about one of the characters as they were quite something.
Overall, a great plot that kept evolving over time.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 17, 2024
This is a brilliant book, I raced through it! It’s fast-paced and easy to read with short, sharp chapters and a thoroughly intriguing premise.
Will is a likeable character who finds himself in an unfortunate situation, a case of ‘in the wrong place at the wrong time’. One miscalculation and his life comes crashing down.
Solly, on the other hand, is vile. A disgusting, horrible creature who gets under your skin. He is sly and manipulative and you just want to scream at him – he is infurating! Kudos to the author for crafting such a despicable human.
If you’re a thriller fan, don’t let this book escape you. It’s enthralling. I was hooked. The paperback is due out in June and deserves a lot of attention.
Will is a likeable character who finds himself in an unfortunate situation, a case of ‘in the wrong place at the wrong time’. One miscalculation and his life comes crashing down.
Solly, on the other hand, is vile. A disgusting, horrible creature who gets under your skin. He is sly and manipulative and you just want to scream at him – he is infurating! Kudos to the author for crafting such a despicable human.
If you’re a thriller fan, don’t let this book escape you. It’s enthralling. I was hooked. The paperback is due out in June and deserves a lot of attention.
December 29, 2023
Now this was dark fun!
Wilbur Cox works in advertising agency, commuting every day from north of London. He likes to go for a drink with his colleagues before catching the train home. It’s a bit of a walk to the tube station, but there’s a short cut through a building site. When he sees a man staggering towards him, he moves out of the way assuming him drunk, but then man moves back to hit shoulders as they pass, and as they separate he says something nasty to Will. Something snaps in Will and he turns and clocks him one on the jaw, and the man goes down, hitting his head and he dies. Will is of course terribly shocked and panic-stricken, but the alley is empty, there is no CCTV.
We are now in the territory of a ‘Can he get away with it?’ murder mystery.
The novel’s tagline of course tells us that it won’t be that simple… apart from the fact that the police are interviewing everyone in the area that night and Will will be one of them, someone else did see it happen.
Will carries on with his life, even gaining a new girlfriend, Ellie, but life isn’t simple. He’s tense, he’s worried, he can’t sleep or concentrate at work. The police have worked out that he must have missed the assault by a mere minute or so, and the pressure is on him to remember anything… they have a suspect in mind, another man who King had had an altercation with, and a nasty piece of work.
Then he’s contacted by Solly and his troubles begin to multiply. Solly lives up in that tower block, and has some hi def cameras – the clip he sends Will shows him clearly.
I can't say more, but Reeves takes us on a roller-coaster ride. It’s hard not to be on Will’s side, but I can’t say I morally approve! It’s dark, but not without a blokey humour, you can almost feel the cogs whirring in Will’s brain as he struggles to work out what to do about Solly and the police. It’s pacy too, and the pages sped by in this debut novel. I enjoyed it a lot.
Wilbur Cox works in advertising agency, commuting every day from north of London. He likes to go for a drink with his colleagues before catching the train home. It’s a bit of a walk to the tube station, but there’s a short cut through a building site. When he sees a man staggering towards him, he moves out of the way assuming him drunk, but then man moves back to hit shoulders as they pass, and as they separate he says something nasty to Will. Something snaps in Will and he turns and clocks him one on the jaw, and the man goes down, hitting his head and he dies. Will is of course terribly shocked and panic-stricken, but the alley is empty, there is no CCTV.
We are now in the territory of a ‘Can he get away with it?’ murder mystery.
The novel’s tagline of course tells us that it won’t be that simple… apart from the fact that the police are interviewing everyone in the area that night and Will will be one of them, someone else did see it happen.
Will carries on with his life, even gaining a new girlfriend, Ellie, but life isn’t simple. He’s tense, he’s worried, he can’t sleep or concentrate at work. The police have worked out that he must have missed the assault by a mere minute or so, and the pressure is on him to remember anything… they have a suspect in mind, another man who King had had an altercation with, and a nasty piece of work.
Then he’s contacted by Solly and his troubles begin to multiply. Solly lives up in that tower block, and has some hi def cameras – the clip he sends Will shows him clearly.
I can't say more, but Reeves takes us on a roller-coaster ride. It’s hard not to be on Will’s side, but I can’t say I morally approve! It’s dark, but not without a blokey humour, you can almost feel the cogs whirring in Will’s brain as he struggles to work out what to do about Solly and the police. It’s pacy too, and the pages sped by in this debut novel. I enjoyed it a lot.
January 27, 2025
7/10 (3.5⭐)
I enjoyed this ! It felt like a mate at the beginning telling you a story. I felt Will's character was likeable, and his realness of getting on with work, having pints with friends and the sudden realisation that his life was going to change !
I'm a bit confused on the title, it made remarks to the way Solly looked - is this really the basis of the whole title ? Ahah, oh well !
It was slow paced at times but others flew by aha, trying to keep but with what else Solly was gonna bring to the table.
I enjoyed the characters and the overall storyline, I just wish it wasn't everywhere at times. It became confusing and had a bit more background in other areas.
I enjoyed this ! It felt like a mate at the beginning telling you a story. I felt Will's character was likeable, and his realness of getting on with work, having pints with friends and the sudden realisation that his life was going to change !
I'm a bit confused on the title, it made remarks to the way Solly looked - is this really the basis of the whole title ? Ahah, oh well !
It was slow paced at times but others flew by aha, trying to keep but with what else Solly was gonna bring to the table.
I enjoyed the characters and the overall storyline, I just wish it wasn't everywhere at times. It became confusing and had a bit more background in other areas.
December 26, 2023
When Will kills someone with a single punch, he is terrified that the police will come after him. The person who does come after him though is a creepy stranger who filmed the incident and threatened to release the video to the police.
This unusual psychological thriller follows Will’s many encounters with his blackmailer and charts his fear and worry over the police investigation. Will is not a likeable character and he deserves a prison sentence but I ended up rooting for him.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This unusual psychological thriller follows Will’s many encounters with his blackmailer and charts his fear and worry over the police investigation. Will is not a likeable character and he deserves a prison sentence but I ended up rooting for him.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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