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It's Your Turn Now
Daisy is desperate to escape her husband. But has she made a deal with the devil?
Daisy Costigan is desperate to leave her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. But she knows he’ll never let her go. And if she tries to escape, he’s promised he’ll do whatever it takes to track her down and have his revenge. She’s trapped.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
Daisy Costigan is desperate to leave her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. But she knows he’ll never let her go. And if she tries to escape, he’s promised he’ll do whatever it takes to track her down and have his revenge. She’s trapped.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2023
891 people are currently reading
777 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 1, 2024
This was a really well written book.
I do have to say first there are trigger alerts. This is a dark story of domestic violence and physical abuse. It’s the story of a husband, who abuses his wife, and the abuse is laid out in very stark terms.
It is also a sort of homage to strangers on a train.
Daisy is married to Bruce in South Carolina near Charleston.
Bruce is a physically abusive prick, who pretty much runs Daisy’s life.
As is the case with many abused women, she’s allowed, virtually no freedom, the cleaning people, and the gardeners spy on her and report back to Bruce, and Bruce frequently abuses her, threatens her and beats her up.
Daisies has just about given up. She can’t imagine ever leaving him. It does not help matters that he comes from a very prominent family and his dad is the mayor.
Daisy is convinced that if she ever left Bruce, he would track her down and either kill her, or bring her back. So she is sort of resigned to life being trapped and at the mercy of her fuckhead of a husband.
One day, in a rare moment of freedom, Daisy stops into her favorite bookstore to look for new books to buy. Reading is one of the ways she can immerse herself and get away from her husband, at least emotionally.
As Bruce calls and texts her furiously, demanding that she come home now , Daisy realizes there is a stranger lounging in one of the book aisles listening to her conversation. He makes his presence known to her, and his name is Marco.
A Bizzarre and eerie conversation issues where Marco tells her some of his story and remarks that they’re sort of in the same boat. Then he suggest something ALA strangers on the train.
Of course, Daisy thinks he’s crazy – at first
But what happens a couple of days later when the police come over to tell Daisy her husband is dead?
Now , Marco will be waiting for Daisy to fulfill her part of the bargain, a bargain that has become a personal nightmare
None of this is a spoiler by the way as it’s all in the description about the book and it happens fairly quickly.
I enjoyed this book but readily admit it’s not for everybody. That’s why I listed the trigger alerts and also there’s a lot that happens that really defies the bounds of believability.
I just found it so compulsively readable I was able to get around that little glitch, and I did like reading this.
I have not been having great luck with domestic thrillers lately, but this is one of the better ones I’ve read.
I do have to say first there are trigger alerts. This is a dark story of domestic violence and physical abuse. It’s the story of a husband, who abuses his wife, and the abuse is laid out in very stark terms.
It is also a sort of homage to strangers on a train.
Daisy is married to Bruce in South Carolina near Charleston.
Bruce is a physically abusive prick, who pretty much runs Daisy’s life.
As is the case with many abused women, she’s allowed, virtually no freedom, the cleaning people, and the gardeners spy on her and report back to Bruce, and Bruce frequently abuses her, threatens her and beats her up.
Daisies has just about given up. She can’t imagine ever leaving him. It does not help matters that he comes from a very prominent family and his dad is the mayor.
Daisy is convinced that if she ever left Bruce, he would track her down and either kill her, or bring her back. So she is sort of resigned to life being trapped and at the mercy of her fuckhead of a husband.
One day, in a rare moment of freedom, Daisy stops into her favorite bookstore to look for new books to buy. Reading is one of the ways she can immerse herself and get away from her husband, at least emotionally.
As Bruce calls and texts her furiously, demanding that she come home now , Daisy realizes there is a stranger lounging in one of the book aisles listening to her conversation. He makes his presence known to her, and his name is Marco.
A Bizzarre and eerie conversation issues where Marco tells her some of his story and remarks that they’re sort of in the same boat. Then he suggest something ALA strangers on the train.
Of course, Daisy thinks he’s crazy – at first
But what happens a couple of days later when the police come over to tell Daisy her husband is dead?
Now , Marco will be waiting for Daisy to fulfill her part of the bargain, a bargain that has become a personal nightmare
None of this is a spoiler by the way as it’s all in the description about the book and it happens fairly quickly.
I enjoyed this book but readily admit it’s not for everybody. That’s why I listed the trigger alerts and also there’s a lot that happens that really defies the bounds of believability.
I just found it so compulsively readable I was able to get around that little glitch, and I did like reading this.
I have not been having great luck with domestic thrillers lately, but this is one of the better ones I’ve read.
January 1, 2024
2.75 rounded up, the premise was interesting and had a lot of potential but the writing felt very amateur. The inner thoughts of the main character were repetitive and made it harder for me to get through. Additionally, it was clear the author did very little research on the location of the story.
November 27, 2023
This book will definitely need a few trigger warnings, and I am not one who normally does them. It was a brutal book and it was hard to read in some places as Cole depicts an unsettling reality of domestic abuse. It’s wrong to say I enjoyed it because of the content but I actually did enjoy the story. It was very dark, gripping, intense and well-written. I can say that this new book did not disappoint me.
I was rooting for Diasy for the entirety of the book, but also I was feeling her fear and desperation! I was also worried, so worried, especially when she got to the beach house – I was worried that someone might not be who they say they are. This was a psychological rollercoaster as Bruce’s controlling nature and obsession with Daisy created a suffocating atmosphere.
It is a hard book to review without spoiling it. I was on edge when reading it and ended up flying through the book because I thought if I read it fast enough then nothing bad could happen!! I didn’t want to put the book down or look away because, well, Daisy couldn’t and I felt like I needed to be with her throughout so I knew she was ok.
The pacing is expertly executed, with the first part of the book being the hardest to read as we see the brutality of Daisy’s marriage. In the second part, the anticipation of a looming climax keeps me on my toes, eagerly turning the pages. And when the bomb finally explodes in the third part, the intensity reaches its peak, leaving no room for respite.
Baxter’s writing is both raw and powerful, capturing the emotional turmoil and strength of Daisy. I was captivated and completely immersed in Daisy’s world, trying to find a way to help and get her out of there!
I enjoy Theo’s books more and more with each book and he’s becoming a go-to author for me!
I was rooting for Diasy for the entirety of the book, but also I was feeling her fear and desperation! I was also worried, so worried, especially when she got to the beach house – I was worried that someone might not be who they say they are. This was a psychological rollercoaster as Bruce’s controlling nature and obsession with Daisy created a suffocating atmosphere.
It is a hard book to review without spoiling it. I was on edge when reading it and ended up flying through the book because I thought if I read it fast enough then nothing bad could happen!! I didn’t want to put the book down or look away because, well, Daisy couldn’t and I felt like I needed to be with her throughout so I knew she was ok.
The pacing is expertly executed, with the first part of the book being the hardest to read as we see the brutality of Daisy’s marriage. In the second part, the anticipation of a looming climax keeps me on my toes, eagerly turning the pages. And when the bomb finally explodes in the third part, the intensity reaches its peak, leaving no room for respite.
Baxter’s writing is both raw and powerful, capturing the emotional turmoil and strength of Daisy. I was captivated and completely immersed in Daisy’s world, trying to find a way to help and get her out of there!
I enjoy Theo’s books more and more with each book and he’s becoming a go-to author for me!
March 25, 2024
I honestly thought this was going to be a good book with the jaw-dropping climax; something that would have me talking about this book for DAYS and recommending others to read it. That is what I really thought would happen.
Silly me.
This book had such great promise - it took off and kept me locked in and invested…then greatly disappointed me. For starters, the POV was repetitive. At first I chalked it up to high anxiety and POV just being extremely frazzled, but then I realized, no, the author was just taking me in damn circles repeating the same damn thing. Very annoying. I also yearned for some red herrings - greater suspense - and a lot more character development.
For example, what was Daniel’s story? He was just a random, single neighbor, who had no qualms having an affair with a woman living in a severe domestic violence situation, whose husband was a maniac and dangerous? He had absolutely noooo problems putting her and/or himself in danger by sneaking moments together? Huh??? There was no other woman available at all in the entire town/county for him? Just seemed too silly to me.
What was the deal with Marco? Why was HE so damn crazy? Did he resent women as a whole, or just his wife? What was the real reason he wanted her killed? So many questions and no answers! I just felt the book left me hanging on so many levels.
The ending?? Oh my word. THE WORST!!! Corny and too “perfect.”
I do not recommend this book by any means. Save yourself the headache and disappointment.
Silly me.
This book had such great promise - it took off and kept me locked in and invested…then greatly disappointed me. For starters, the POV was repetitive. At first I chalked it up to high anxiety and POV just being extremely frazzled, but then I realized, no, the author was just taking me in damn circles repeating the same damn thing. Very annoying. I also yearned for some red herrings - greater suspense - and a lot more character development.
For example, what was Daniel’s story? He was just a random, single neighbor, who had no qualms having an affair with a woman living in a severe domestic violence situation, whose husband was a maniac and dangerous? He had absolutely noooo problems putting her and/or himself in danger by sneaking moments together? Huh??? There was no other woman available at all in the entire town/county for him? Just seemed too silly to me.
What was the deal with Marco? Why was HE so damn crazy? Did he resent women as a whole, or just his wife? What was the real reason he wanted her killed? So many questions and no answers! I just felt the book left me hanging on so many levels.
The ending?? Oh my word. THE WORST!!! Corny and too “perfect.”
I do not recommend this book by any means. Save yourself the headache and disappointment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2023
This one was not for me. The story sound great, based on the theme of Stranger on a Train. An abused woman, Daisy, runs into a man at a bookstore he offers her the classic trade. I'll get rid of you husband and you take care of my wife.
I really did want to like it, but the writing just wouldn't click with me. So much of Daisy's pov was repetitive and stilted.
Finally I stopped reading at 50% and will not finish.
Thank you to Netgalley and Inkubator books for the opportunity to try this e-ARC
I really did want to like it, but the writing just wouldn't click with me. So much of Daisy's pov was repetitive and stilted.
Finally I stopped reading at 50% and will not finish.
Thank you to Netgalley and Inkubator books for the opportunity to try this e-ARC
December 2, 2023
complete nonsense!
What a stupid book! I can’t believe that this author was considered for publication. Page after page full of rubbish.
What a stupid book! I can’t believe that this author was considered for publication. Page after page full of rubbish.
August 22, 2024
This was terrible. I only finished it because I was waiting for the big “twist” but it never came??
November 21, 2023
I love a fast-paced thriller which is full of twists and grabs you in right from page 1 and this seems to be a real skill of this author.
I've read a few of Baxter's books now and I absolutely love them.
Here, Daisy is desperate to escape her controlling husband.
When a stranger overhears a phonecall where she sounds distressed, Marco comes to her rescue.
But is this friendship doomed before it begins and has Daisy gone from one monster, to another!?
I wasn't sure about Daisy as I feel as though I should have felt sorry for her in the dreadful situation that she was in with her husband - but I just wasn't sure.
When she meets Marco and makes another bad decision, I was quite frustrated by her, but her behaviour following, actually worked well in adding tension to the story.
Once again, brilliantly written - I couldn't put this down and raced to the end.
As expected, even though I know that the twists are coming...... I was still shocked by the ending and had to sit and process for a while after finishing reading!
I've read a few of Baxter's books now and I absolutely love them.
Here, Daisy is desperate to escape her controlling husband.
When a stranger overhears a phonecall where she sounds distressed, Marco comes to her rescue.
But is this friendship doomed before it begins and has Daisy gone from one monster, to another!?
I wasn't sure about Daisy as I feel as though I should have felt sorry for her in the dreadful situation that she was in with her husband - but I just wasn't sure.
When she meets Marco and makes another bad decision, I was quite frustrated by her, but her behaviour following, actually worked well in adding tension to the story.
Once again, brilliantly written - I couldn't put this down and raced to the end.
As expected, even though I know that the twists are coming...... I was still shocked by the ending and had to sit and process for a while after finishing reading!
December 19, 2023
Thank you @zooloosbooktours for introducing me to yet another amazing book, and for having me on this book tour!
Please be aware there's quite a few trigger warnings so be careful if you read it
This book had my blood boiling!! Bruce...wow I don't know how anyone could read this book and even slightly stand this man. Also Marco, at tirst you kinda think okay this guy Is alright and then how the turns tide
At first the story takes a little while to pick up but then so much starts happening in the book, which is how I like my thrillers - fast paced and hard to put down
So much happens towards the end of the book, the calm before the storm. Daisy was such an interesting complex character to read about, and there were so many "what ifs" and ways this story could've ended differently
If you're a thriller lover add this one to your tbr list
Please be aware there's quite a few trigger warnings so be careful if you read it
This book had my blood boiling!! Bruce...wow I don't know how anyone could read this book and even slightly stand this man. Also Marco, at tirst you kinda think okay this guy Is alright and then how the turns tide
At first the story takes a little while to pick up but then so much starts happening in the book, which is how I like my thrillers - fast paced and hard to put down
So much happens towards the end of the book, the calm before the storm. Daisy was such an interesting complex character to read about, and there were so many "what ifs" and ways this story could've ended differently
If you're a thriller lover add this one to your tbr list
November 18, 2023
3.5 stars. I have read another book by Theo Baxter which I really enjoyed, so I was happy to give this one a go. I have never heard of Strangers on a Train, so it was something new for me. It was well-written and gripping. However, I do find it odd that she meets a random stranger and arranges to have him murder her husband - in return for her murdering his wife. I am not sure this is how it would play out in reality, even in Daisy's situation. It seems a little too far-fetched. The subject of DV hits a little too close to home for me right now, so those scenes were rather difficult for me to read.
November 17, 2023
It's Your Turn Now by Theo Baxter
Daisy is desperate to escape her husband. But has she made a deal with the devil?
A brilliant read. I loved Daisy and was rooting for her. At first I wasn't sure about Marco I didn't trust him. I really dispised Bruce. I did like Daniel. Twisty gripping and tense. 5*.
Daisy is desperate to escape her husband. But has she made a deal with the devil?
A brilliant read. I loved Daisy and was rooting for her. At first I wasn't sure about Marco I didn't trust him. I really dispised Bruce. I did like Daniel. Twisty gripping and tense. 5*.
March 27, 2024
This book was kind of slow but the ending did not disappoint. Once I was 75% of the way through, I couldn’t put it down. Thrillers really need to get me hooked in order for them to be a 4 or 5 star. I will be reading this author again though :)
January 16, 2024
Daisy Costigan is desperate to leave her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. But she knows he’ll never let her go. And if she tries to escape, he’s promised he’ll do whatever it takes to track her down and have his revenge. She’s trapped.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
If you are fans of the authors mentioned above in the synopsis, then this book is for you. I was hooked on this story from the beginning and stayed up all night to finish it. Theo Baxter knows how to spin a psychological thriller.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
If you are fans of the authors mentioned above in the synopsis, then this book is for you. I was hooked on this story from the beginning and stayed up all night to finish it. Theo Baxter knows how to spin a psychological thriller.
March 6, 2024
I really liked that the plot wasn’t completely cliche, with simple jealousy and pettiness .. it was a good read
November 7, 2023
Be prepared to be scared out of your mind with this one! I don’t know how Theo Baxter comes up with this stuff, but every single book is absolutely incredible. The storyline is freakin awesome; the characters literally steal your breath away; the plot twists and turns keep you bouncing from one crazy idea to another; and thank goodness for the amazing HEA that was the only saving grace in the entire book! Man oh man—this book was demented. I totally loved it and hope you will as well! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally caught up in it!) ❤️❤️
December 14, 2023
Very disappointed with this book. Although it had a fantastic plot, the author simply skated on it and didn’t develop his characters well enough.
One thing I especially disliked is that while the author is presumably a man, he made his main character a woman. He used his man’s mind to flesh out the character and the thoughts and speech of a woman. So many times the main character didn’t ring true because it was obvious a man’s attitude and mannerisms were behind it. No women I know spoke and thought like this woman in this book. The author’s gender spoke louder than the main character did.
One thing I especially disliked is that while the author is presumably a man, he made his main character a woman. He used his man’s mind to flesh out the character and the thoughts and speech of a woman. So many times the main character didn’t ring true because it was obvious a man’s attitude and mannerisms were behind it. No women I know spoke and thought like this woman in this book. The author’s gender spoke louder than the main character did.
November 18, 2023
I wanted to read this book because I really liked the concept. But we’ll get to that in a minute.
Daisy has been abused by her husband Bruce throughout the ten years of their marriage. She can do nothing right. If his meals are not ready on time, he beats her. If he doesn’t like what she has prepared, he’ll throw the food on the floor, dish and all, like a demented toddler, and say it’s her fault for giving him rubbish. She isn’t allowed out of the house without good reason, and then he calls her every five minutes to ask why she’s taking so long. If she is late he threatens to take her car off her. He employs a housekeeper, a gardener and a handyman, who are there basically to spy on her. She’s been in A & E three times in six months with lacerations, bruises and broken bones. But no-one is prepared to help her because Bruce’s father is the Mayor and he can make anything go away if he chooses to.
Then one day Daisy is allowed to go to the bookstore, where Marco overhears Bruce shouting at Daisy over the phone. He guesses, rightly so, that Daisy is being abused. He starts a conversation with her and shows her a book called Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith. I haven’t actually read the book, but I’ve seen the Hitchcock film many times and it’s brilliant. And this is the concept that inspired It’s Your Turn Now. The story concerns two strangers who meet on a train, one of whom is a psychopath who suggests that they ‘exchange’ murders so that neither will be caught.* Tennis star Guy wants to divorce his wife, while Bruno wants to get rid of his father. Bruno suggests that he kills Guy’s wife and Guy then returns the ‘favour’ by killing Bruno’s father. Guy doesn’t take it seriously, but of course Bruno carries out the murder and now Guy must fulfil his side of the bargain.
There is a slight difference though. Daisy is actually tempted, but she doesn’t think she could kill anyone. But her fear of Bruce is enough to make her do something rash. Marco has told her that his wife Sarah is a dreadful person, who is unfaithful and treats him like a slave. Surprise, surprise, none of it is true and he’s the dreadful one. A psychopath, a narcissist and a criminal.
So when Bruce turns up dead and the police are on Daisy’s doorstep, she has a decision to make. Carry out her part of the deal, or risk Marco coming after her. And Marco isn’t going to give her a choice.
Suspenseful and terrifying, you’ll have to read the book to discover what Daisy decides.
Many thanks to @zooloo2008 for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
*Wikipedia
Daisy has been abused by her husband Bruce throughout the ten years of their marriage. She can do nothing right. If his meals are not ready on time, he beats her. If he doesn’t like what she has prepared, he’ll throw the food on the floor, dish and all, like a demented toddler, and say it’s her fault for giving him rubbish. She isn’t allowed out of the house without good reason, and then he calls her every five minutes to ask why she’s taking so long. If she is late he threatens to take her car off her. He employs a housekeeper, a gardener and a handyman, who are there basically to spy on her. She’s been in A & E three times in six months with lacerations, bruises and broken bones. But no-one is prepared to help her because Bruce’s father is the Mayor and he can make anything go away if he chooses to.
Then one day Daisy is allowed to go to the bookstore, where Marco overhears Bruce shouting at Daisy over the phone. He guesses, rightly so, that Daisy is being abused. He starts a conversation with her and shows her a book called Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith. I haven’t actually read the book, but I’ve seen the Hitchcock film many times and it’s brilliant. And this is the concept that inspired It’s Your Turn Now. The story concerns two strangers who meet on a train, one of whom is a psychopath who suggests that they ‘exchange’ murders so that neither will be caught.* Tennis star Guy wants to divorce his wife, while Bruno wants to get rid of his father. Bruno suggests that he kills Guy’s wife and Guy then returns the ‘favour’ by killing Bruno’s father. Guy doesn’t take it seriously, but of course Bruno carries out the murder and now Guy must fulfil his side of the bargain.
There is a slight difference though. Daisy is actually tempted, but she doesn’t think she could kill anyone. But her fear of Bruce is enough to make her do something rash. Marco has told her that his wife Sarah is a dreadful person, who is unfaithful and treats him like a slave. Surprise, surprise, none of it is true and he’s the dreadful one. A psychopath, a narcissist and a criminal.
So when Bruce turns up dead and the police are on Daisy’s doorstep, she has a decision to make. Carry out her part of the deal, or risk Marco coming after her. And Marco isn’t going to give her a choice.
Suspenseful and terrifying, you’ll have to read the book to discover what Daisy decides.
Many thanks to @zooloo2008 for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
*Wikipedia
November 12, 2023
It’s Your Turn Now is a pacy, edge of your seat psychological thriller that deals with some heavy topics including domestic violence. Baxter’s writing is perfectly suited to the genre and themes. You quickly feel the claustrophobic pressure put on Daisy by her husband Bruce. The pace and build is well executed with interesting, dangerous and truly unhinged characters. I personal had a bit of a tough time with Daisy, on the one hand I obviously felt for her plight and wanted her to find a way out. On the other I found that she seemed to cause, later on, more problems for herself. Turning from the victim to a sort of accomplice by keeping secrets from not only the police but Daniel as well. Of course in a way this is realistic especially when she has had to lie to keep Bruce somewhat happy for years but it seemed to go against the original portal of Daisy as someone who is utterly controlled to a bit of the a controller by keeping those in the dark. It just was something that irked me a tad but it didn’t take from the story.
I found the tension kept me hooked and towards the end I was really wondering who would survive. I particularly like the last quarter in terms of ramping up the suspense and worry. I think this was built perfectly by the characterisation and writing of the novel. If you enjoy a good, twisty psychological thriller you will love this one.
I found the tension kept me hooked and towards the end I was really wondering who would survive. I particularly like the last quarter in terms of ramping up the suspense and worry. I think this was built perfectly by the characterisation and writing of the novel. If you enjoy a good, twisty psychological thriller you will love this one.
November 7, 2023
When Daisy’s husband rings her non-stop when she’s in a bookshop, another customer, Marco, quickly realises that she’s in a domestic abuse relationship and puts a proposition to her.
Daisy’s husband is a nasty, evil man and his Dad is just as horrid! Daisy’s husband is violent and has broken many of her bones, but living in a small community and his dad being mayor, the police and hospital turn a blind eye to it all.
Will Daisy take Marco up on his offer to help free her from this violent relationship?
Goodness me, what a story! This book does need to come with trigger warnings, it was an incredibly difficult book to read. The violence was horrific and would affect some people.
A clever and well thought out story, which had me rooting for Daisy all the way through. There were times where I thought my heart was going to burst through my chest, the story was so intense and dark!
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Daisy’s husband is a nasty, evil man and his Dad is just as horrid! Daisy’s husband is violent and has broken many of her bones, but living in a small community and his dad being mayor, the police and hospital turn a blind eye to it all.
Will Daisy take Marco up on his offer to help free her from this violent relationship?
Goodness me, what a story! This book does need to come with trigger warnings, it was an incredibly difficult book to read. The violence was horrific and would affect some people.
A clever and well thought out story, which had me rooting for Daisy all the way through. There were times where I thought my heart was going to burst through my chest, the story was so intense and dark!
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 19, 2023
Thank you @zooloosBT and Theo Baxter for letting me be part of this tour and reviewing this book. It’s your turn now is a psychological thriller genre. The story is about Daisy who has a controlling husband and wants to leave him but he won’t let her go. It’s your turn is a gripping read that had some fantastic twists. I seemed to get in grossed in the book straight away which is always good sign. Daisy’s character was hard to read at times due to the abuse she was receiving from her husband but I felt like Theo Baxter dealt with the abuse issues well. The story had a good amount of suspense and did hook me to my seat. A great read 5 stars. Strongly recommend.
February 9, 2024
What a stupid book, I only finished it as I'm laid up in hospital. Violent domestic violence and rape scenes, and then the main character meets a random man who said he is in same position, 'ill kill your husband and you kill my wife', ok then! She kills the baddie in the end, has a new boyfriend, she buys him a car with her inheritance and 'he repays me with multiple orgasms', I mean, really? Don't waste your time. This was a new author for me but I don't think I'll try his others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2024
I really wanted to like this book - the plot had so much potential - but I was so so so let down by the writing. I found that it was really repetitive and I found the vocabulary and language basic. I also found it pretty noticeable that a man had written this book and perhaps lacked the full breadth of how a woman in an abusive relationship would act and speak. In addition to having a hard time with the actual writing I found that the ending was predictable.
December 14, 2023
I don't know how many times you can say basically the same thing and call it a book. Very repetitive.
December 10, 2023
Daisy is trapped in her loveless marriage to Bruce, a controlling and entitled brute who physically, verbally, and emotionally abuses her daily. When a sympathetic stranger named Marco overhears Bruce berating her over the phone, Daisy learns this man can relate because he too claims to suffer from a marriage with a manipulative, possessive spouse. Then Marco proposes a morbidly ingenious plan that could solve both their marital problems: he can kill Daisy's husband, but she must kill his wife in return. After Marco proves true to his word by ridding her of her monster of a husband, Daisy struggles to find the nerve to keep up her end of the deal. Soon she discovers that Marco may prove more menacing than the husband she was desperate to escape.
As you can see, the premise of "It's Your Turn Now" is quite intriguing and I welcomed the uniqueness of the plot. The story makes you empathize with Daisy's character, for it seems all the men who come into her life are abusive, narcissistic bullies. Readers should beware, however, that there are graphic descriptions of domestic abuse and more specifically which could be triggering to some.
Anyway, the story progresses in a rather straightforward manner, so do not expect any shocking twists that aren't already revealed in the book's description. While the novel had its entertaining moments, I found Daisy’s internal monologue to be a tad repetitive at times, and the narrative features this heavily. Her character also seemed to lack good critical thinking skills. For instance, I cannot believe she did not immediately Especially after he had alluded to it during their previous phone conversation. Furthermore, during the climax, she Of course, I understand this was her being influenced by her fear and not thinking straight, but my goodness was it frustrating to read!
Overall, "It's Your Turn Now" has its high points and was potentially gripping, if not for the plot dragging out in certain spots and the monotonous nature of the main character's internal dialogue.
As you can see, the premise of "It's Your Turn Now" is quite intriguing and I welcomed the uniqueness of the plot. The story makes you empathize with Daisy's character, for it seems all the men who come into her life are abusive, narcissistic bullies. Readers should beware, however, that there are graphic descriptions of domestic abuse and more specifically which could be triggering to some.
Anyway, the story progresses in a rather straightforward manner, so do not expect any shocking twists that aren't already revealed in the book's description. While the novel had its entertaining moments, I found Daisy’s internal monologue to be a tad repetitive at times, and the narrative features this heavily. Her character also seemed to lack good critical thinking skills. For instance, I cannot believe she did not immediately Especially after he had alluded to it during their previous phone conversation. Furthermore, during the climax, she Of course, I understand this was her being influenced by her fear and not thinking straight, but my goodness was it frustrating to read!
Overall, "It's Your Turn Now" has its high points and was potentially gripping, if not for the plot dragging out in certain spots and the monotonous nature of the main character's internal dialogue.
July 3, 2025
I read this book through Theo Baxter’s thriller box. My opinion of this book, overall, was good, not THE best thriller, but actually a good one.
The plot twist wasn’t that bad, it wasn’t too good either, but as I kept reading, I guess it got somewhat better, maybe? I don’t know for sure. After more than halfway through the book, I guess I could say that’s when it was a good book. Was the twist good? Maybe, but to be honest, I didn’t exactly see it coming, so I have to give my respect to Theo Baxter for making me confused; he did a fine job right there.
Again, Theo Baxter’s books do have this weird feeling like watching some drama series with a twist. I guess that’s why they seem very easy to follow, the fact that he doesn’t complicate his books means attracting more readers.
Reading the book and connecting to the main character “Daisy”, I had one idea the whole time: Falling in love is not a crime. As a human, you felt something and you followed your heart, that’s all. It’s not a bad thing, the quote “she definitely didn’t deserve to die for it”, hit me so hard realizing that even falling in love is a life lesson by the end of the day, we love people whose main purpose in our lives was to learn a lesson maybe even a couple of them. Feeling that way doesn’t mean you did anything wrong yet again, because we’re humans, we deserve a second chance in life to stand back up on our feet, learn to love ourselves, and later love someone who is worthy. Maybe this time, include our brains to take control when things don’t feel right, or maybe see red flags.
I loved the fact that if someone went through something, they can easily see and detect the same situation when others go through it, that’s exactly what Daisy did, and what we all do when we see something we know because we went through it.
Theo Baxter again involves what we face on a daily basis in a thriller.
The ending of the book felt so simple yet happy. I think that way is the best way to end a book, though it could have ended in a way that was much sadder than that, but I loved how the author chose a happy ending, basically giving hope to the idea that it could end happily for everyone.
The main point that I really want to raise out there if there’s someone who’s going through any sort of violence, they should always say something; friends or family help has to be provided. I think focusing on this matter itself and sharing awareness is amazing. So really, I think Theo Baxter is becoming one of the authors I would most recommend to people, especially beginners.
The plot twist wasn’t that bad, it wasn’t too good either, but as I kept reading, I guess it got somewhat better, maybe? I don’t know for sure. After more than halfway through the book, I guess I could say that’s when it was a good book. Was the twist good? Maybe, but to be honest, I didn’t exactly see it coming, so I have to give my respect to Theo Baxter for making me confused; he did a fine job right there.
Again, Theo Baxter’s books do have this weird feeling like watching some drama series with a twist. I guess that’s why they seem very easy to follow, the fact that he doesn’t complicate his books means attracting more readers.
Reading the book and connecting to the main character “Daisy”, I had one idea the whole time: Falling in love is not a crime. As a human, you felt something and you followed your heart, that’s all. It’s not a bad thing, the quote “she definitely didn’t deserve to die for it”, hit me so hard realizing that even falling in love is a life lesson by the end of the day, we love people whose main purpose in our lives was to learn a lesson maybe even a couple of them. Feeling that way doesn’t mean you did anything wrong yet again, because we’re humans, we deserve a second chance in life to stand back up on our feet, learn to love ourselves, and later love someone who is worthy. Maybe this time, include our brains to take control when things don’t feel right, or maybe see red flags.
I loved the fact that if someone went through something, they can easily see and detect the same situation when others go through it, that’s exactly what Daisy did, and what we all do when we see something we know because we went through it.
Theo Baxter again involves what we face on a daily basis in a thriller.
The ending of the book felt so simple yet happy. I think that way is the best way to end a book, though it could have ended in a way that was much sadder than that, but I loved how the author chose a happy ending, basically giving hope to the idea that it could end happily for everyone.
The main point that I really want to raise out there if there’s someone who’s going through any sort of violence, they should always say something; friends or family help has to be provided. I think focusing on this matter itself and sharing awareness is amazing. So really, I think Theo Baxter is becoming one of the authors I would most recommend to people, especially beginners.
November 27, 2023
Here’s my review of It’s Your Turn Now by Theo Baxter
This was a fantastic psychological thriller which I got into straight away and couldn’t put down. I read it in one sitting and loved it. It was full of twists and turns and a real page turner. The plot was well thought out and expressed well throughout the book where the author has a way with words that is shown in the book in a descriptive writing style. This covers an abusive husband who is physically and mentally harming his wife, he is controlling her and doesn’t allow her to have a life of her own. Daisy is trying to fight back and finding ways to have some time to herself, although there is still the mobile phone! She does her best not to antagonize him but he doesn’t need a reason to attack her as he nearly always seems in a bad mood and that spells bad news for Daisy.
Can Daisy get away from him?
Blurb :
Daisy is desperate to escape her husband. But has she made a deal with the devil?
Daisy Costigan is desperate to leave her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. But she knows he’ll never let her go. And if she tries to escape, he’s promised he’ll do whatever it takes to track her down and have his revenge. She’s trapped.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
This was a fantastic psychological thriller which I got into straight away and couldn’t put down. I read it in one sitting and loved it. It was full of twists and turns and a real page turner. The plot was well thought out and expressed well throughout the book where the author has a way with words that is shown in the book in a descriptive writing style. This covers an abusive husband who is physically and mentally harming his wife, he is controlling her and doesn’t allow her to have a life of her own. Daisy is trying to fight back and finding ways to have some time to herself, although there is still the mobile phone! She does her best not to antagonize him but he doesn’t need a reason to attack her as he nearly always seems in a bad mood and that spells bad news for Daisy.
Can Daisy get away from him?
Blurb :
Daisy is desperate to escape her husband. But has she made a deal with the devil?
Daisy Costigan is desperate to leave her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. But she knows he’ll never let her go. And if she tries to escape, he’s promised he’ll do whatever it takes to track her down and have his revenge. She’s trapped.
One day Daisy meets a charming stranger in a bookstore. His name is Marco and he overhears Daisy’s terrified phone conversation with controller Bruce.
Marco makes Daisy an offer. He’ll take care of Bruce if she’ll help him with a little problem - his wife.
Daisy doesn’t really think he’s serious, but two days later Bruce is dead. And now Marco wants her to hold up her end of the deal. If she doesn’t, he says he’ll kill someone she loves.
Stalked by the unhinged Marco, Daisy finds herself in an impossible situation. Can she find a way to escape this terrifying man? Or will she be forced to do the unthinkable?
It’s Your Turn Now – the terrifying psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, Kiersten Modglin.
August 20, 2025
Reading Journal Details
Book: It's Your Turn Now by Theo Baxter
Format Read: Audiobook (~9 hours, 15 minutes long)
My Rating: ⭐️✨ (1.5/5)
My Quick Take Review
It's Your Turn Now offers a promising premise and beginning, but shallow characters, repetitive internal narration, and a lackluster conclusion make it fall short on its promise; a thriller that, unfortunately, didn't dig deep enough in its potential.
Some Key Features
🚉 Strangers on a Train echoes
🔁 Repetitive monologues
😒 Shallow character pool
➡️ Easy, consistent pacing
My Full Review
Theo Baxter's It's Your Turn Now starts with an interesting premise, leaning into a Strangers on a Train-style atmosphere with a touch of bookish charm. Unfortunately, what could have been a gripping psychological thriller quickly loses steam as chapters advance.
Daisy, the central character, is written to be meek and damaged, but instead of drawing empathy, she comes across as repetitive and pancake-level flat. Her consistent internal monologues circle the same points over and over—and if pared down, the book would have been significantly tighter.
The pacing is steady enough to keep the story moving, but the characters surrounding Daisy—in addition to Daisy herself—feel shallow, with little genuine depth to anchor the narrative. This lack of substance makes connecting with them unbearably difficult. The so-called sexier elements of the book, meanwhile, felt awkwardly placed and overemphasized; they were more cringe than compelling and very obviously written through a male gaze.
While the book cover promised a big twist, the story instead drifts into an anticlimactic conclusion that left me unsatisfied. By the end, the narrative felt unfinished and run-of-the-mill, as though the finer details of the character work and direction had not been fully fleshed out.
Book: It's Your Turn Now by Theo Baxter
Format Read: Audiobook (~9 hours, 15 minutes long)
My Rating: ⭐️✨ (1.5/5)
My Quick Take Review
It's Your Turn Now offers a promising premise and beginning, but shallow characters, repetitive internal narration, and a lackluster conclusion make it fall short on its promise; a thriller that, unfortunately, didn't dig deep enough in its potential.
Some Key Features
🚉 Strangers on a Train echoes
🔁 Repetitive monologues
😒 Shallow character pool
➡️ Easy, consistent pacing
My Full Review
Theo Baxter's It's Your Turn Now starts with an interesting premise, leaning into a Strangers on a Train-style atmosphere with a touch of bookish charm. Unfortunately, what could have been a gripping psychological thriller quickly loses steam as chapters advance.
Daisy, the central character, is written to be meek and damaged, but instead of drawing empathy, she comes across as repetitive and pancake-level flat. Her consistent internal monologues circle the same points over and over—and if pared down, the book would have been significantly tighter.
The pacing is steady enough to keep the story moving, but the characters surrounding Daisy—in addition to Daisy herself—feel shallow, with little genuine depth to anchor the narrative. This lack of substance makes connecting with them unbearably difficult. The so-called sexier elements of the book, meanwhile, felt awkwardly placed and overemphasized; they were more cringe than compelling and very obviously written through a male gaze.
While the book cover promised a big twist, the story instead drifts into an anticlimactic conclusion that left me unsatisfied. By the end, the narrative felt unfinished and run-of-the-mill, as though the finer details of the character work and direction had not been fully fleshed out.
August 5, 2024
Our main character, Daisy Costigan has been contemplating a plan for a long, long time. She's had enough of her abuse from her violent, controlling husband, Bruce. How can she manage to become free? She can't run away because he would find her and potentially kill her. She could kill him but sheesh exchanging one prison for another just doesn't seem to be worth it.
Until one day, as she is browsing in a bookstore a complete stranger overhears her phone conversation with Bruce. Sheesh this is the 13th time he has called in the last 20 minutes asking her where she was and when she would be getting home. Giving her an ultimatum to be home with supper cooked by the time he returned from work or else!
Coming around the corner of the bookshelf is this charming stranger named Marco. He admits to overhearing her phone conversation, he offers a plan -- "I will take care of Bruce and once that is done - I need you to take care of my over-controlling wife!" Brilliant Plan - who's gonna know or even suspect - as Bruce & Daisy doesn't even know each other so there is no way to tie the two possible murders together. Is there??
Two days later, the cops arrive to tell Daisy that Bruce is dead! Eeeek!! Freedom at last! Ohhh but wait a moment - she still has to complete her side of the bargain. And Marco is just not going to let her off the hook! That was the agreement and one way or another he's going to ensure she completes her side! Has she simply exchanged one abuser for another! This is obviously not the answer - Daisy has to complete her side of the deal in order to get Marco off her back. Is she up for the challenge as she can smell freedom in her future!
Until one day, as she is browsing in a bookstore a complete stranger overhears her phone conversation with Bruce. Sheesh this is the 13th time he has called in the last 20 minutes asking her where she was and when she would be getting home. Giving her an ultimatum to be home with supper cooked by the time he returned from work or else!
Coming around the corner of the bookshelf is this charming stranger named Marco. He admits to overhearing her phone conversation, he offers a plan -- "I will take care of Bruce and once that is done - I need you to take care of my over-controlling wife!" Brilliant Plan - who's gonna know or even suspect - as Bruce & Daisy doesn't even know each other so there is no way to tie the two possible murders together. Is there??
Two days later, the cops arrive to tell Daisy that Bruce is dead! Eeeek!! Freedom at last! Ohhh but wait a moment - she still has to complete her side of the bargain. And Marco is just not going to let her off the hook! That was the agreement and one way or another he's going to ensure she completes her side! Has she simply exchanged one abuser for another! This is obviously not the answer - Daisy has to complete her side of the deal in order to get Marco off her back. Is she up for the challenge as she can smell freedom in her future!
July 3, 2024
Disappointing read
This book started well and the premise is what drew me in at first, however a very poor writing style quickly started to grate on me and I truly struggled to finish reading.
The author is very clearly amateur and does not know how to write a paragraph without being patronising, condescending and spelling every last thing out to his readers. I felt like I was reading a children's book at times.
The protagonist is a muddled mess, occasionally she's likeable and relatable but mostly she's annoying and foolish. The actions of the storyline are all of her own making and she has plenty of opportunities to make better decisions but she's written so badly that it all comes across as meaningless.
There is no suspense, no real drama, no realism and the happy ending is undeserved. I found myself wanting to know more about the villain of the story as he was by far the most interesting character in this book.
Fair to say it was a disappointing read - I found myself shaking my head in despair at some of the writing; I'm not a published author but I read a lot and I can't believe this book made it past the editing stage as it is. So many sentences could have been taken out without taking away the main plot and better editing could have improved the book significantly.
I have been brutal in my critique but I hope this helps other readers - I think many would agree with some, if not all of my points.
This book started well and the premise is what drew me in at first, however a very poor writing style quickly started to grate on me and I truly struggled to finish reading.
The author is very clearly amateur and does not know how to write a paragraph without being patronising, condescending and spelling every last thing out to his readers. I felt like I was reading a children's book at times.
The protagonist is a muddled mess, occasionally she's likeable and relatable but mostly she's annoying and foolish. The actions of the storyline are all of her own making and she has plenty of opportunities to make better decisions but she's written so badly that it all comes across as meaningless.
There is no suspense, no real drama, no realism and the happy ending is undeserved. I found myself wanting to know more about the villain of the story as he was by far the most interesting character in this book.
Fair to say it was a disappointing read - I found myself shaking my head in despair at some of the writing; I'm not a published author but I read a lot and I can't believe this book made it past the editing stage as it is. So many sentences could have been taken out without taking away the main plot and better editing could have improved the book significantly.
I have been brutal in my critique but I hope this helps other readers - I think many would agree with some, if not all of my points.
November 2, 2023
Daisy is married to Bruce and has been for 10 years however it’s far from the perfect marriage. Bruce is controlling, abusive and runs Daisys life. She cannot do anything without his permission. Daisy is desperate to leave Bruce but knows she doesn’t have a hope in hell.
Whilst in a book shop Daisy meets Marco. He over heard Daisy on the phone to Bruce and becomes concerned. He offers his help to Daisy and says he will help Daisy out with Bruce, on the condition she does something in return.
True to his word Marco kills Bruce just a few days after their chance meeting. Daisy is finally free, that is until she realises Marco wants her to kill his wife. Just as Daisy has escaped one abusive and controlling man she walks straight into the arms of another, but how will she get herself out of this mess on this occasion?
I really Love Theo Baxter’s work annd have read many of his books. I did enjoy reading It’s your turn now. There were many twists and turns throughout this book which kept things interesting for the reader, however at times I also found it could be quite predictable and a little repetitive. I loved the short chapters which I felt increased the pace of the book and I found it very easy to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
Whilst in a book shop Daisy meets Marco. He over heard Daisy on the phone to Bruce and becomes concerned. He offers his help to Daisy and says he will help Daisy out with Bruce, on the condition she does something in return.
True to his word Marco kills Bruce just a few days after their chance meeting. Daisy is finally free, that is until she realises Marco wants her to kill his wife. Just as Daisy has escaped one abusive and controlling man she walks straight into the arms of another, but how will she get herself out of this mess on this occasion?
I really Love Theo Baxter’s work annd have read many of his books. I did enjoy reading It’s your turn now. There were many twists and turns throughout this book which kept things interesting for the reader, however at times I also found it could be quite predictable and a little repetitive. I loved the short chapters which I felt increased the pace of the book and I found it very easy to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
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