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DS Sue Willmott #1
After the Storm
Introducing Sergeant Mike Adams and DS Sue Willmott, Beachbrook’s best investigators.
TWO CHILDREN WENT INTO THE SEA.
When Andrew and Sophie take their daughter and her friend to the beach on a stormy day, they are momentarily distracted and both children are washed out to sea. Andrew dives in, but comes back ashore with only one child – Maria, his own daughter. Joe, the son of his best friend and local police officer, Chris, has drowned. But it was just a tragic accident…wasn’t it?
ONLY ONE CAME OUT ALIVE.
As Sergeant Mike Adams and DS Sue Willmott investigate what really happened in the water that afternoon, the ripple effects of the tragedy tear the community apart. The detectives must discover the truth before their colleague – bereaved and desperate father, Chris – takes the investigation into his own hands…
BUT WHO IS TO BLAME?
TWO CHILDREN WENT INTO THE SEA.
When Andrew and Sophie take their daughter and her friend to the beach on a stormy day, they are momentarily distracted and both children are washed out to sea. Andrew dives in, but comes back ashore with only one child – Maria, his own daughter. Joe, the son of his best friend and local police officer, Chris, has drowned. But it was just a tragic accident…wasn’t it?
ONLY ONE CAME OUT ALIVE.
As Sergeant Mike Adams and DS Sue Willmott investigate what really happened in the water that afternoon, the ripple effects of the tragedy tear the community apart. The detectives must discover the truth before their colleague – bereaved and desperate father, Chris – takes the investigation into his own hands…
BUT WHO IS TO BLAME?
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2024
332 people are currently reading
1303 people want to read
About the author
G.D. Wright
6 books63 followersMy name is Gary (pen name G.D. Wright) and I live in Kent with my wife and two young children.
I joined Kent Police at the age of 18, working on the front line in a variety of uniformed roles until the age of 29 when, completely out of the blue, I suffered two cardiac ‘events’, and was subsequently diagnosed with a hereditary and incurable disease of the heart (arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy if you’re being fussy!). As a result, I had an internal defibrillator implanted in me, and I had to retire from the police aged 30.
One door closed, but another opened, and my wife and I bought a coffee shop in Ramsgate Harbour. We spent eight of the happiest years of our lives there but, when the kiddies came along, it just wasn’t sustainable. Family comes first, every single time (a theme in my books…), and the simple fact was that we knew our summers should be spent with the kids, not working seven days a week. In 2022, we sold the coffee shop, and I took to writing full time.
I signed a two book deal with Avon UK (part of the Harper Collins family), and my debut was released in August 2024. It’s called AFTER THE STORM, and it’s a police procedural with a twisty, emotional hook. Next up was INTO THE FIRE, released in June 2025. I've signed another two books with Avon, set for release in 2026 and 2027.
I’m always up for chatting, so find me on my socials and I’ll happily answer any questions you might have!
I joined Kent Police at the age of 18, working on the front line in a variety of uniformed roles until the age of 29 when, completely out of the blue, I suffered two cardiac ‘events’, and was subsequently diagnosed with a hereditary and incurable disease of the heart (arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy if you’re being fussy!). As a result, I had an internal defibrillator implanted in me, and I had to retire from the police aged 30.
One door closed, but another opened, and my wife and I bought a coffee shop in Ramsgate Harbour. We spent eight of the happiest years of our lives there but, when the kiddies came along, it just wasn’t sustainable. Family comes first, every single time (a theme in my books…), and the simple fact was that we knew our summers should be spent with the kids, not working seven days a week. In 2022, we sold the coffee shop, and I took to writing full time.
I signed a two book deal with Avon UK (part of the Harper Collins family), and my debut was released in August 2024. It’s called AFTER THE STORM, and it’s a police procedural with a twisty, emotional hook. Next up was INTO THE FIRE, released in June 2025. I've signed another two books with Avon, set for release in 2026 and 2027.
I’m always up for chatting, so find me on my socials and I’ll happily answer any questions you might have!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
December 27, 2024
Release Date: 1st August 2024
Two children went into the sea. Only one came out alive.
What a debut novel! Absolutely heart wrenching!
I knew it would be so kept putting off reading it, until I felt ready and then decided the audiobook was possibly the better option to go for, mainly because I can't read when I'm crying.
This is such a well written book about the human condition, we all make mistakes and how those split second decisions can have grave consequences.
I find the characters to be believable, raw and honest in their grief and behaviour. This book had me gripped and I couldn't stop listening to it, even though at times it was harrowing.
If this is G.D Wright's debut novel, I can't wait to read what he releases next.
Two children went into the sea. Only one came out alive.
What a debut novel! Absolutely heart wrenching!
I knew it would be so kept putting off reading it, until I felt ready and then decided the audiobook was possibly the better option to go for, mainly because I can't read when I'm crying.
This is such a well written book about the human condition, we all make mistakes and how those split second decisions can have grave consequences.
I find the characters to be believable, raw and honest in their grief and behaviour. This book had me gripped and I couldn't stop listening to it, even though at times it was harrowing.
If this is G.D Wright's debut novel, I can't wait to read what he releases next.
August 21, 2024
Before I get in to the negatives, I just want to start with a positive, the writing was great and I will definitely pick up another book by this author but unfortunately I didn't enjoy this.
What sort of irresponsible people take their children to the beach to play in the storm?! That just wasn't believable to me and I don't feel like the author was going for a 'suspend your disbelief' type of story. However I'm not a parent so how can I comment, and that's how I felt for a lot of the book.
Maria was the most annoying child to ever exist. I didn't believe Chris could be that angry over an actual accident.
What sort of irresponsible people take their children to the beach to play in the storm?! That just wasn't believable to me and I don't feel like the author was going for a 'suspend your disbelief' type of story. However I'm not a parent so how can I comment, and that's how I felt for a lot of the book.
Maria was the most annoying child to ever exist. I didn't believe Chris could be that angry over an actual accident.
August 15, 2024
My heart was in my stomach leaving my mouth dry, in this heart-breaking story as it unfolds. I gasp at the fact this is the authors Gary D Wright’s first novel. It triggers a warning to parents never take your eyes off children in the sea, or in any water. Little Maria, has a best friend Joe, they are more like brother and sister. With their blonde hair and matching orange wetsuit, they both could be like twins. Maria‘s parents often take them both to the beach. Andrew and Sophie look after Joe while his dad has a long day as a policeman. At the beach Maria and Joe jump around in the little sea, with no tide, no current. But waves whipped up by the wind in a frenzy out of control situation. Andrew and Sophie are distracted, on the beach by an out of control dog off the lead, jumping up at pregnant Sophie. By the time the dog is put back on the lead, Andrew and Sarah, realise that they can’t see their young daughter or Joe in the sea. Andrew saves Maria, but Joe is missing, Sergeant Mike Adams, and DS Sue Willmott start an investigation in what happened in the water in that fateful afternoon. Joe’s dad has to be informed that his son, is missing in the sea. Distraught Chris races to the beach to look for his son. This story is going to get even more harrowing. I felt so sad and emotional for Chris and his wife Linda to lose their child by drowning, while being looked after by friends. This story is very well written, with grief stricken parents with the a question hanging in the air, who is to blame for what happened that fateful afternoon at the Beachbrook sea? After The Storm is definitely a big call out for a film. I recommend all bloggers, readers put this down as a must buy must read.
June 16, 2024
This is a heart wrenching debut novel. Andrew and Sophie often look after Joe, the 6 year old son of Chris and Linda, while they are busy working as a police officer and a paramedic. On a wet, blustery day Andrew and Sophie take Joe and their daughter Maria to the beach to play with a kite, they venture into the sea and get into difficulties Andrew goes in to rescue them but can only save 1 child. The repercussions that follow affect the whole town and brings tragedy further for one set of parents.
The writing in this book is so strong and powerful, its raw emotion brought me to tears on more than one occasion.
There are some very difficult subjects covered in the novel which could be a trigger. Grief and loss feature predominantly.
The writing in this book is so strong and powerful, its raw emotion brought me to tears on more than one occasion.
There are some very difficult subjects covered in the novel which could be a trigger. Grief and loss feature predominantly.
July 5, 2024
ARC for review. To be published August 1, 2024.
A poignant thriller….no happy endings here.
Andrew and Sophie take their daughter Maria and her best friend Joe to the beach. While the adults are momentarily distracted both children get washed out into the ocean. Andrew rushes after them but only returns with Maria; he was unable to save Joe. Joe’s parents, Chris and Linda, Andrew and Sophie’s best friends, are decimated. Police officer Sue Wilmott investigates but it appears to be just a tragic accident. Is it anything more?
Well, I’m not an old copper, but I knew where Chris was and what he was doing….so why didn’t the police know? These are not the brightest cops.
A poignant thriller….no happy endings here.
Andrew and Sophie take their daughter Maria and her best friend Joe to the beach. While the adults are momentarily distracted both children get washed out into the ocean. Andrew rushes after them but only returns with Maria; he was unable to save Joe. Joe’s parents, Chris and Linda, Andrew and Sophie’s best friends, are decimated. Police officer Sue Wilmott investigates but it appears to be just a tragic accident. Is it anything more?
Well, I’m not an old copper, but I knew where Chris was and what he was doing….so why didn’t the police know? These are not the brightest cops.
August 6, 2024
This really is one to read, the story pulls you in from page one and doesn’t let you go, a heartbreaking story capturing the aftermath of a child’s death and the reality of how it affects everyone involved, especially those involved in a cover up, burying lies and navigating the world post loss.
This is a character driven book that really gets in your feels. I will definitely be looking out for more from this author. Bravo!
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my arc.
This is a character driven book that really gets in your feels. I will definitely be looking out for more from this author. Bravo!
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my arc.
August 9, 2024
This debut novel is set in a small English seaside town. It involves the tragic loss of a child and the traumatic effects on the parents and the community.
This was a harrowing read dealing with loss, guilt, blame, and retribution. It was suspenseful and solidly written, although I felt it bogged down some in the middle and was repetitive in spots. Fans of the genre would find this to be well done but in general I would hesitate to recommend it without the caveat that it’s a heart-wrenching topic that probes deeply into the aftermath of losing a child.
This was a harrowing read dealing with loss, guilt, blame, and retribution. It was suspenseful and solidly written, although I felt it bogged down some in the middle and was repetitive in spots. Fans of the genre would find this to be well done but in general I would hesitate to recommend it without the caveat that it’s a heart-wrenching topic that probes deeply into the aftermath of losing a child.
May 19, 2024
I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.. It was a good read, although quite harrowing at times, showing how so many different types of people from all backgrounds deal with a tragedy. This book will stay with me for a long time.
August 12, 2024
Maria’s parents Andrew and Sophie look after little Joe for Linda and Chris.
After the Storm is a dramatic, fast paced and emotional story that illustrates to perfection how one split second can affect future lives irrevocably. With a terrifying prologue that captivates the reader immediately, this is a book that doesn’t let up.
There’s an immediacy – a real time element – to the writing so that it feels as if the reader is seeing the action first hand, giving added impact. It doesn’t seem like reading, more like bearing witness to actual events through an authorial style that I found totally compelling. Descriptions are vivid and evocative and the power of the sea in particular is wonderfully depicted.
However, there’s considerable depth in amongst the exciting action too. Written with a sense of compassion and a sensitive understanding of police procedure and the kinds of situations officers can find themselves in, After the Storm feels authentic and realistic as well as exciting to read. It makes the reader appreciate just what officers go through in the line of duty.
The drama of the storm feels all the more heightened coming after the early domesticity in the book. We see ordinary, loving, frazzled parents who could easily be anyone of us, and suddenly they are plunged into the most dreadful nightmare, so that by the time of the storm we feel we know Linda, Chris, Andrew and Sophie intimately and, consequently, we are all the more invested in the outcomes of the story. This means that After the Storm has skilful and profound emotional impact.
The characters are layered and drawn with a kind of tender empathy – even when they are at their worst. I’m not usually a fan of children in fiction, but both Joe and Maria seemed completely realistic. I loved the way Joe is a catalyst for so much action even though he’s barely physically present in the story. This is because of the depth of human understanding G.D. Wright weaves into his narrative through the adults’ reactions. I thought the balance of focus on Chris and Andrew against the police procedural element of the story was brilliant. Whilst I think there is enormous scope to develop Sergeant Mike Adams and DS Sue Williams in any future books, what is so affecting here is the impact of crime on individuals. We see with absolute clarity how events can escalate and how ordinary people can have their lives turned upside down. After the Storm is like a pebble dropped into a pool as consequences and reactions ripple out through the lives of the characters.
The themes of the story that include grief, mental health, family, friendship, professionalism and loyalty, underpinning a fast, high action narrative, mean that After the Storm has an aspect relevant to any reader, giving the book an impressive universality and a surprising emotional depth.
I thought After the Storm was an excellent read. It has drama and entertainment, but above all else it has sensitivity and humanity. I cared about the people between its pages and am thinking about them still. It’s a super book and not to be missed from an author destined to be a real star.
After the Storm is a dramatic, fast paced and emotional story that illustrates to perfection how one split second can affect future lives irrevocably. With a terrifying prologue that captivates the reader immediately, this is a book that doesn’t let up.
There’s an immediacy – a real time element – to the writing so that it feels as if the reader is seeing the action first hand, giving added impact. It doesn’t seem like reading, more like bearing witness to actual events through an authorial style that I found totally compelling. Descriptions are vivid and evocative and the power of the sea in particular is wonderfully depicted.
However, there’s considerable depth in amongst the exciting action too. Written with a sense of compassion and a sensitive understanding of police procedure and the kinds of situations officers can find themselves in, After the Storm feels authentic and realistic as well as exciting to read. It makes the reader appreciate just what officers go through in the line of duty.
The drama of the storm feels all the more heightened coming after the early domesticity in the book. We see ordinary, loving, frazzled parents who could easily be anyone of us, and suddenly they are plunged into the most dreadful nightmare, so that by the time of the storm we feel we know Linda, Chris, Andrew and Sophie intimately and, consequently, we are all the more invested in the outcomes of the story. This means that After the Storm has skilful and profound emotional impact.
The characters are layered and drawn with a kind of tender empathy – even when they are at their worst. I’m not usually a fan of children in fiction, but both Joe and Maria seemed completely realistic. I loved the way Joe is a catalyst for so much action even though he’s barely physically present in the story. This is because of the depth of human understanding G.D. Wright weaves into his narrative through the adults’ reactions. I thought the balance of focus on Chris and Andrew against the police procedural element of the story was brilliant. Whilst I think there is enormous scope to develop Sergeant Mike Adams and DS Sue Williams in any future books, what is so affecting here is the impact of crime on individuals. We see with absolute clarity how events can escalate and how ordinary people can have their lives turned upside down. After the Storm is like a pebble dropped into a pool as consequences and reactions ripple out through the lives of the characters.
The themes of the story that include grief, mental health, family, friendship, professionalism and loyalty, underpinning a fast, high action narrative, mean that After the Storm has an aspect relevant to any reader, giving the book an impressive universality and a surprising emotional depth.
I thought After the Storm was an excellent read. It has drama and entertainment, but above all else it has sensitivity and humanity. I cared about the people between its pages and am thinking about them still. It’s a super book and not to be missed from an author destined to be a real star.
July 28, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of After the Storm in exchange for a review.
I read a lot of books and with probably most of them, even when I enjoy them, I’ll struggle to remember the plot when I read the title again a couple of months later. But some books are special - they have the writers’ X Factor. After the Storm has the writers’ X Factor! That’s not to say it was a lovely and joyful reading experience.. most of the reviews I’ve read so far have described it as ‘harrowing’ and I can’t get that word out of my head - it’s definitely the right word for it. Another good description would be ‘devastating and emotionally draining’.
However, it was fantastic. So beautifully written, the feelings of the bereaved parents in particular were so raw and vivid that I cried several times imagining what they were experiencing. It must have been traumatising to write but G D Wright has clearly put everything into bringing to life such genuine emotions in his words - he is a true talent.
I read the first half in almost only one sitting - I only stopped because my eyeballs were hurting and it was becoming too unpleasant to continue.
The story itself centres around two couples whose six year old children - Maria and Joe - are best friends. The two couples are great friends but there is a tension there as Andrew and Sophie are very well-off whereas Chris and Linda are balancing long hours in their demanding jobs as a police officer and paramedic with devoting their time to their son. Andrew and Sophie look after Joe for them a lot and it’s hard for them to hear that so many of Joe’s best days ever are spent without them. One day, Andrew and Sophie take the kids to the beach, there is a terrible storm and only one of the children comes home.
What happens next can only be described as an onslaught. The story absolutely spirals and is intensely gripping. We also hear the story unravel from the points of view of the detectives looking into the case and examining whether what happened was truly an accident.
As we near the end, the chapters get shorter and the pace gets more and more intense until we reach its devastating end. And the ending - wow! I burst into tears!
The book throws up a lot of intriguing questions - what more could the police have done at each stage? Did Andrew do the right thing? He wasn’t the most likeable character, but by the end I really felt for him as much as all of the other characters. As a mum to a five year old I couldn’t help imagining every part of the book in real life and wondering what I would have done.
Absolutely brilliant and a clear 5-star book - but, I’m sorry G D Wright, I don’t think I’ll be able to read it a second time! It will certainly stay with me though. If they’re not lining up Suranne Jones for a tv adaptation right now then someone is missing a trick!
I read a lot of books and with probably most of them, even when I enjoy them, I’ll struggle to remember the plot when I read the title again a couple of months later. But some books are special - they have the writers’ X Factor. After the Storm has the writers’ X Factor! That’s not to say it was a lovely and joyful reading experience.. most of the reviews I’ve read so far have described it as ‘harrowing’ and I can’t get that word out of my head - it’s definitely the right word for it. Another good description would be ‘devastating and emotionally draining’.
However, it was fantastic. So beautifully written, the feelings of the bereaved parents in particular were so raw and vivid that I cried several times imagining what they were experiencing. It must have been traumatising to write but G D Wright has clearly put everything into bringing to life such genuine emotions in his words - he is a true talent.
I read the first half in almost only one sitting - I only stopped because my eyeballs were hurting and it was becoming too unpleasant to continue.
The story itself centres around two couples whose six year old children - Maria and Joe - are best friends. The two couples are great friends but there is a tension there as Andrew and Sophie are very well-off whereas Chris and Linda are balancing long hours in their demanding jobs as a police officer and paramedic with devoting their time to their son. Andrew and Sophie look after Joe for them a lot and it’s hard for them to hear that so many of Joe’s best days ever are spent without them. One day, Andrew and Sophie take the kids to the beach, there is a terrible storm and only one of the children comes home.
What happens next can only be described as an onslaught. The story absolutely spirals and is intensely gripping. We also hear the story unravel from the points of view of the detectives looking into the case and examining whether what happened was truly an accident.
As we near the end, the chapters get shorter and the pace gets more and more intense until we reach its devastating end. And the ending - wow! I burst into tears!
The book throws up a lot of intriguing questions - what more could the police have done at each stage? Did Andrew do the right thing? He wasn’t the most likeable character, but by the end I really felt for him as much as all of the other characters. As a mum to a five year old I couldn’t help imagining every part of the book in real life and wondering what I would have done.
Absolutely brilliant and a clear 5-star book - but, I’m sorry G D Wright, I don’t think I’ll be able to read it a second time! It will certainly stay with me though. If they’re not lining up Suranne Jones for a tv adaptation right now then someone is missing a trick!
August 10, 2024
I’m mystified by the 4- and 5-star reviews. I struggled to get into the book. The writing was repetitive and flat, and it took a long time to get to the main event. There was a lot of “telling” of how difficult it was for mothers, but I couldn’t really feel the emotion. Disappointed overall because the setup seemed great.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
(Review copy from NetGalley)
April 6, 2025
Devastating story, kept my interest, got a little cheesy in some parts but I was invested to the end.
May 14, 2025
Herregud vilken läsning…Det här är nog en av de mest gripande kriminalroman jag läst på länge. När det mest fruktansvärda som kan hända sker, ett litet barn dör, och vad det kan göra med oss. Hur våra sinnen kan helt korrumperas och förvrängas av ilska och jakt på hämnd. Väldigt psykologisk bok där vi verkligen får följa de olika offrens sinnesstämningar, på båda sidor av fallet. Vi får se in i karaktärernas psyken, hur påverkar denna tragiska händelse dem, och hur långt är man villig att gå? Uppskattade verkligen början där vi får en inblick i den ena huvudkaraktärens bakgrund, som gav än mer förklaring för hur denne agerar i nuet. Självklart gillade jag även att vi får så många olika perspektiv, speciellt mot slutet, kalla kårar deluxe.
Mycket välskriven och fastän det gjorde så ont i hjärtat, så kunde jag inte lägga den ifrån mig. Jag var tvungen att läsa vidare för att se hur det skulle sluta. Vad kommer ske härnäst? En annorlunda kriminalroman, med en upptakt som inte liknar något jag läst tidigare. Tack för att jag fick läsa denna bok 🌊
Mycket välskriven och fastän det gjorde så ont i hjärtat, så kunde jag inte lägga den ifrån mig. Jag var tvungen att läsa vidare för att se hur det skulle sluta. Vad kommer ske härnäst? En annorlunda kriminalroman, med en upptakt som inte liknar något jag läst tidigare. Tack för att jag fick läsa denna bok 🌊
September 2, 2024
I Almost Didn't Read This Novel.
Within a few chapters I realised that there was a Brat in it. One of those spoiled rotten over- indulged tiny domestic tyrants who bully, browbeat and manipulate their parents, always get their own way and are enraged when thwarted. I knew it would annoy me, but I got sucked in. It is well written, emotional, and poses some moral questions. Ultimately, I wanted Somme form of justice to be done. But as predicted, unbelievable damage and harm is done and Brat comes up smelling of roses. Feckless, morally challenged parents get away with it and the wrong people suffer. Brat continues to be treated like a princess and ensures chaos and mayhem around her for ever after.
Within a few chapters I realised that there was a Brat in it. One of those spoiled rotten over- indulged tiny domestic tyrants who bully, browbeat and manipulate their parents, always get their own way and are enraged when thwarted. I knew it would annoy me, but I got sucked in. It is well written, emotional, and poses some moral questions. Ultimately, I wanted Somme form of justice to be done. But as predicted, unbelievable damage and harm is done and Brat comes up smelling of roses. Feckless, morally challenged parents get away with it and the wrong people suffer. Brat continues to be treated like a princess and ensures chaos and mayhem around her for ever after.
September 6, 2024
I'm struggling to find adequate words to praise this book, the best I can come up with is absolutely phenomenal!
The author has completely captured every single possible emotion, sweeping you along until you are gasping for breath. Heart wrenching, heart stopping, the description of the storm and the human factor going against the full force of nature put you on the verge of tears as you read, unable to put it down. Seriously brilliant writing. And the ending..... Seriously good.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
The author has completely captured every single possible emotion, sweeping you along until you are gasping for breath. Heart wrenching, heart stopping, the description of the storm and the human factor going against the full force of nature put you on the verge of tears as you read, unable to put it down. Seriously brilliant writing. And the ending..... Seriously good.
I cannot recommend this book enough.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
August 7, 2025
Andrew and Sophie take their daughter, Maria, and her best friend, Joe, to the beach on a stormy day. The kids are happily playing when a moment of distraction changes everything and both kids are washed out to sea. Andrew dives into the water to find them, but only comes back with one child.
When Joe’s parents, Chris and Linda, learn of his death, they want answers. Could his death be more than a tragic accident? As the police investigate, the community is torn apart by the ripple effects of the tragedy. Chris is out for vengeance. Can the police get answers before he takes matters into his own hands?
Heartbreaking, tense, atmospheric and consuming, After the Storm is a remarkable debut. Exquisitely written, deftly plotted and keenly observed, this is a story enmeshed in raw grief, utter devastation and white hot rage. G. D. Wright showcases himself as a talent to watch on the thriller scene, delivering heart-pounding tension and emotions that go straight to your soul in a story that wrecked havoc on my heart as well as my blood pressure. Losing a child is every parents’ worst nightmare and the scenes where they learn of their son’s death are some of the most heartbreakingly raw and evocative that I’ve ever read. I wiped tears from my eyes as their hearts shattered and he wrecked havoc on my heart as well as my blood pressure. I am in awe that this is a debut as it reads like the work of a veteran author.
Before that tragic day it wasn’t just the kids who were friends, but the parents too, but afterwards they find themselves on opposite sides of the tragedy. While Chris and Linda try to wrap their heads around their life-shattering loss, a cloud of suspicion over Andrew. He fights to prove his innocence but he’s an unreliable narrator and is clearly hiding something. As time goes on, Chris is fueled by the fire of revenge and determined to see Andrew pay for what happened. As the reader, you feel for both sides and also don’t know what to believe as Wright keeps the truth close to the vest.
For any book to be truly great, you need good characters and Wright has created a cast of brilliant characters who are richly drawn, relatable, made me care about them and made me feel invested in their lives. He makes us feel their emotions and allows us to step into each of their shoes. You can feel the love he put into each of these characters on every page and they are people that will stay with me.
Powerful, moving, unsparing and unforgettable, After the Storm is an absolute triumph. And that ending! Gaz, you totally broke me😭 Both this, and the follow-up Into the Fire, are must-reads for any thriller fans.
When Joe’s parents, Chris and Linda, learn of his death, they want answers. Could his death be more than a tragic accident? As the police investigate, the community is torn apart by the ripple effects of the tragedy. Chris is out for vengeance. Can the police get answers before he takes matters into his own hands?
Heartbreaking, tense, atmospheric and consuming, After the Storm is a remarkable debut. Exquisitely written, deftly plotted and keenly observed, this is a story enmeshed in raw grief, utter devastation and white hot rage. G. D. Wright showcases himself as a talent to watch on the thriller scene, delivering heart-pounding tension and emotions that go straight to your soul in a story that wrecked havoc on my heart as well as my blood pressure. Losing a child is every parents’ worst nightmare and the scenes where they learn of their son’s death are some of the most heartbreakingly raw and evocative that I’ve ever read. I wiped tears from my eyes as their hearts shattered and he wrecked havoc on my heart as well as my blood pressure. I am in awe that this is a debut as it reads like the work of a veteran author.
Before that tragic day it wasn’t just the kids who were friends, but the parents too, but afterwards they find themselves on opposite sides of the tragedy. While Chris and Linda try to wrap their heads around their life-shattering loss, a cloud of suspicion over Andrew. He fights to prove his innocence but he’s an unreliable narrator and is clearly hiding something. As time goes on, Chris is fueled by the fire of revenge and determined to see Andrew pay for what happened. As the reader, you feel for both sides and also don’t know what to believe as Wright keeps the truth close to the vest.
For any book to be truly great, you need good characters and Wright has created a cast of brilliant characters who are richly drawn, relatable, made me care about them and made me feel invested in their lives. He makes us feel their emotions and allows us to step into each of their shoes. You can feel the love he put into each of these characters on every page and they are people that will stay with me.
Powerful, moving, unsparing and unforgettable, After the Storm is an absolute triumph. And that ending! Gaz, you totally broke me😭 Both this, and the follow-up Into the Fire, are must-reads for any thriller fans.
June 25, 2025
*Heartbreaking*
**4.5 Stars**
G. D. Wright’s debut novel is an incredible read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a gut-wrenching exploration of how two married couples, Andrew and Sophie, and Chris and Linda, suffer loss and how it fractures their relationship. The novel also delves into how loss and actions can spiral out of control.
Andrew and Chris are best friends. Andrew is a builder, while Chris is a police officer. Together, they have a close-knit relationship with their wives, Sophie and Linda.
One day, Andrew and Sophie decide to take a trip to the beach with their daughter, Maria, and Chris and Linda’s son, Joe. Despite the atrocious weather, they allow the kids to play in what they call the “little sea.” However, a momentary distraction causes the kids to end up out to sea. Andrew rushes in, but only one child returns – his daughter, Maria.
This tragic event sparks an investigation by the police and the CPS. The results of the investigation deeply grieve Chris, leading him down a path of despair that makes him unrecognisable. As the tragedy unfolds, Chris’s police officer instincts kick in, and he becomes determined to cover his tracks and seek the truth. However, the situation spirals dangerously out of control, as more personal tragedy hits him.
The final showdown is heart-rending because the grief is palpable. I finally let out the breath I had been holding in.
Thank you so much Charlie Gallagher for this great recommendation
**4.5 Stars**
G. D. Wright’s debut novel is an incredible read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s a gut-wrenching exploration of how two married couples, Andrew and Sophie, and Chris and Linda, suffer loss and how it fractures their relationship. The novel also delves into how loss and actions can spiral out of control.
Andrew and Chris are best friends. Andrew is a builder, while Chris is a police officer. Together, they have a close-knit relationship with their wives, Sophie and Linda.
One day, Andrew and Sophie decide to take a trip to the beach with their daughter, Maria, and Chris and Linda’s son, Joe. Despite the atrocious weather, they allow the kids to play in what they call the “little sea.” However, a momentary distraction causes the kids to end up out to sea. Andrew rushes in, but only one child returns – his daughter, Maria.
This tragic event sparks an investigation by the police and the CPS. The results of the investigation deeply grieve Chris, leading him down a path of despair that makes him unrecognisable. As the tragedy unfolds, Chris’s police officer instincts kick in, and he becomes determined to cover his tracks and seek the truth. However, the situation spirals dangerously out of control, as more personal tragedy hits him.
The final showdown is heart-rending because the grief is palpable. I finally let out the breath I had been holding in.
Thank you so much Charlie Gallagher for this great recommendation
January 27, 2025
this is the first book i’ve ever not finished after starting it
what book are people reading to give it 4 or 5 stars? this book is so fucking depressing, i got about 40% in and just couldn’t continue at all
what book are people reading to give it 4 or 5 stars? this book is so fucking depressing, i got about 40% in and just couldn’t continue at all
May 3, 2025
Betyg: 4 av 5.
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Den här boken, Efter stormen, är den brittiske författaren G.D. Wrights debutbok. Jag tyckte mycket om boken, och jag skulle gärna läsa fler böcker av den före detta polisen, som numer är författare. Det finns en bok till av honom på engelska, och jag hoppas på att den också blir översatt till svenska.
Boken var spännande och välskriven, och den var även mycket gripande och sorglig. Kan absolut rekommendera den.
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Jag varvade e-boksläsning med ljudbokslyssning, i 1,25 hastighet, inläst av Kristofer Kamiyasu.
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Den här boken, Efter stormen, är den brittiske författaren G.D. Wrights debutbok. Jag tyckte mycket om boken, och jag skulle gärna läsa fler böcker av den före detta polisen, som numer är författare. Det finns en bok till av honom på engelska, och jag hoppas på att den också blir översatt till svenska.
Boken var spännande och välskriven, och den var även mycket gripande och sorglig. Kan absolut rekommendera den.
.
Jag varvade e-boksläsning med ljudbokslyssning, i 1,25 hastighet, inläst av Kristofer Kamiyasu.
.
July 22, 2024
My experience of reading this book is a funny one that makes me chuckle every time I think about it... I originally requested this book on NetGalley because it sounded like a book I have read and loved previously. But while reading it, I couldn't get passed how similar it felt. I was absolutely loving it and it had reduced me to tears by the halfway point, but I was still disappointed that this author had quite obviously ripped the plot from another book.
Turns out I have actually read this book before! It was bound to happen at some point, I suppose. But in my defence, the book was titled something else when Gary first self-published it, so it wasn't completely my own fault!
I rated it five stars back then, and I'm rating it five stars again now because the editor's tweaks have only heightened the emotions, character development, and aching tension throughout. I connected with the story even more on a second time, and it's definitely a story that sticks with you.
I'm so happy that GD Wright has been able to get this brilliant book published, and I'm very thankful to get a second opportunity to shout about how amazing it is! Part detective thriller, part mystery, and part family drama, it's a powerfully effective and harrowing read, and one I implore you to go and buy!
Turns out I have actually read this book before! It was bound to happen at some point, I suppose. But in my defence, the book was titled something else when Gary first self-published it, so it wasn't completely my own fault!
I rated it five stars back then, and I'm rating it five stars again now because the editor's tweaks have only heightened the emotions, character development, and aching tension throughout. I connected with the story even more on a second time, and it's definitely a story that sticks with you.
I'm so happy that GD Wright has been able to get this brilliant book published, and I'm very thankful to get a second opportunity to shout about how amazing it is! Part detective thriller, part mystery, and part family drama, it's a powerfully effective and harrowing read, and one I implore you to go and buy!
September 1, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for my ARC.
I don’t know what made me request this, it might have been the blurb. I’m so glad that I did.
What a first novel to publish. This had me hooked from the get go. Two children go into the sea. A parent goes in after them but only one child comes out. What happened in the water?
The characters were amazing. They were carefully crafted and very realistic, especially as a few of them had specialist jobs.
It’s a hard hitting book, I’m not going to lie. Reading this just after having a baby probably wasn’t the best idea but it still had me devouring every page.
There are many trigger topics in this, so look them up to decide if this book is for you. But I was fully invested in every second of this emotional book.
And the twist at the end? Very clever!
I don’t know what made me request this, it might have been the blurb. I’m so glad that I did.
What a first novel to publish. This had me hooked from the get go. Two children go into the sea. A parent goes in after them but only one child comes out. What happened in the water?
The characters were amazing. They were carefully crafted and very realistic, especially as a few of them had specialist jobs.
It’s a hard hitting book, I’m not going to lie. Reading this just after having a baby probably wasn’t the best idea but it still had me devouring every page.
There are many trigger topics in this, so look them up to decide if this book is for you. But I was fully invested in every second of this emotional book.
And the twist at the end? Very clever!
July 21, 2024
A devastatingly tragic story, that gripped me from the very start and I really struggled to put it down and sleep!
It is harrowing and heartbreaking, but it is so brilliantly written, it reads like a compulsive thriller, which to a degree, it is, as well as being a very character and community driven story.
I just can’t say enough about how brilliant this book is, even though it was also very triggering for me, as I was caught in a rip ride when I was in my early 20’s and, like Andrew, I’m very lucky to still be here. Utterly terrifying.
The unimaginable pain that a family goes through at the loss of their child and the
repercussions to everyone involved is heart wrenching.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, G. D. Wright and Avon for an ARC in return for an honest review.
It is harrowing and heartbreaking, but it is so brilliantly written, it reads like a compulsive thriller, which to a degree, it is, as well as being a very character and community driven story.
I just can’t say enough about how brilliant this book is, even though it was also very triggering for me, as I was caught in a rip ride when I was in my early 20’s and, like Andrew, I’m very lucky to still be here. Utterly terrifying.
The unimaginable pain that a family goes through at the loss of their child and the
repercussions to everyone involved is heart wrenching.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, G. D. Wright and Avon for an ARC in return for an honest review.
August 8, 2025
⭐️ 4.5 STARS ⭐️
Two children go into the sea, but only one returns - I will start this review by saying that this book isn’t an easy read, and it’s not meant to be. You follow the aftermath of an unimaginable loss, which @gdwrightwrites explores with raw honesty and compassion.
The author deals with the difficult topics with such care but also doesn’t shy away from the details. The grief is never handled as a passing emotion; it is the heart of the story which you become immersed in. The heartache felt by the parents after their unthinkable loss hits you to your core. It’s not a minor detail, instead he gives grief the attention it deserves. You see how it can completely overpower even the strongest of people.
As hard-hitting as this book was, it was also incredibly gripping. With the grieving parents desperately trying to uncover the truth, causing further distress as they fight to put the fractured puzzle pieces together and get the answers they so desperately need .
What extent will a grieving parent go to unravel the truth?
The multiple POVs allow us to see each character’s pain and confusion as they search for answers. For me, there is no villain. Just pain, secrets and people desperately trying to navigate through the aftermath of an unfathomable loss. With the ongoing police investigation helping to slowly piece together what happened on the day that changed everything and took the life of an innocent child.
One of the things I loved most was how the chapters gradually shortened as the story progressed. Slowly building the tension as each page felt more urgent. I found myself completely hooked.
I felt the fear, I felt the grief, I felt the weight of what was happening as the author brought not only the story but the characters to life.
Overall, a gut-wrenching emotional read that deals with the worst type of grief and handles the topics of child loss with such care, allowing the grief to take centre stage, as it should. A stark reminder of how quickly life can change and how deeply that loss can shape us.
Two children go into the sea, but only one returns - I will start this review by saying that this book isn’t an easy read, and it’s not meant to be. You follow the aftermath of an unimaginable loss, which @gdwrightwrites explores with raw honesty and compassion.
The author deals with the difficult topics with such care but also doesn’t shy away from the details. The grief is never handled as a passing emotion; it is the heart of the story which you become immersed in. The heartache felt by the parents after their unthinkable loss hits you to your core. It’s not a minor detail, instead he gives grief the attention it deserves. You see how it can completely overpower even the strongest of people.
As hard-hitting as this book was, it was also incredibly gripping. With the grieving parents desperately trying to uncover the truth, causing further distress as they fight to put the fractured puzzle pieces together and get the answers they so desperately need .
What extent will a grieving parent go to unravel the truth?
The multiple POVs allow us to see each character’s pain and confusion as they search for answers. For me, there is no villain. Just pain, secrets and people desperately trying to navigate through the aftermath of an unfathomable loss. With the ongoing police investigation helping to slowly piece together what happened on the day that changed everything and took the life of an innocent child.
One of the things I loved most was how the chapters gradually shortened as the story progressed. Slowly building the tension as each page felt more urgent. I found myself completely hooked.
I felt the fear, I felt the grief, I felt the weight of what was happening as the author brought not only the story but the characters to life.
Overall, a gut-wrenching emotional read that deals with the worst type of grief and handles the topics of child loss with such care, allowing the grief to take centre stage, as it should. A stark reminder of how quickly life can change and how deeply that loss can shape us.
August 18, 2025
This was a powerful, poignant, rollercoaster of a book. Absolutely brilliant. I cried...a lot. The story was told from multiple points of view but very easy to follow. The prologue had been gripped right from the start, and it didn't let go until the very end.
I loved that the characters were very relatable with ordinary lives. They're just like a lot of people...kids..school runs..going off to work.
Andrea and Sophie are great friends with Chris and Linda. Both couples have a six-year old child each, who are also the best of friends. Andrew and Sophie take the children for a day at the beach. When Andrew and Sophie take their eyes off the children at the beach, on a particularly nasty day, tragedy soon strikes.
The storm that unfolded was truly heart breaking. These lines in the book perfectly summed up how scary it must have been...'The drizzle was like death by a thousand cuts, and he could taste salt as the mist of the sea spray descended upon them. She was a spitting cobra, her venom, everywhere.'
As we follow both couples after the storm, we are left wondering if we will ever know the truth of what happened that day.
We see the pain, destruction, and devastation that follows. We witness the despair, anger and hate.
I read a lot of this story through tears. It is an extremely difficult tale, but it felt so real, so claustrophobic, so compelling.
The book was so well written and I felt as though I was right in the middle of the character's private grief.
This is a story etched in grief and sadness. A poignant tale that had me thinking all of the time of how lives and friendships can be left in tatters.
I loved that the characters were very relatable with ordinary lives. They're just like a lot of people...kids..school runs..going off to work.
Andrea and Sophie are great friends with Chris and Linda. Both couples have a six-year old child each, who are also the best of friends. Andrew and Sophie take the children for a day at the beach. When Andrew and Sophie take their eyes off the children at the beach, on a particularly nasty day, tragedy soon strikes.
The storm that unfolded was truly heart breaking. These lines in the book perfectly summed up how scary it must have been...'The drizzle was like death by a thousand cuts, and he could taste salt as the mist of the sea spray descended upon them. She was a spitting cobra, her venom, everywhere.'
As we follow both couples after the storm, we are left wondering if we will ever know the truth of what happened that day.
We see the pain, destruction, and devastation that follows. We witness the despair, anger and hate.
I read a lot of this story through tears. It is an extremely difficult tale, but it felt so real, so claustrophobic, so compelling.
The book was so well written and I felt as though I was right in the middle of the character's private grief.
This is a story etched in grief and sadness. A poignant tale that had me thinking all of the time of how lives and friendships can be left in tatters.
October 6, 2024
A trip to the beach turns into a nightmare when Andrew and Sophie’s six year old daughter, Maria, and their best friend’s son, Joe, are swept out to sea. Andrew goes in to rescue them while Sophie calls for help, but when he emerges he only has one child - Maria. Everyone is devastated by the tragedy and their lives begin to unravel in the search for answers.
As you can imagine this is a very traumatic story and whilst I really enjoyed it, it might not be for everyone. This is acknowledged right at the start where readers are directed to the back pages for content warnings if they want to know more. I think this is the perfect way to do it as those who might be impacted by certain storylines can find out upfront and those that don’t want to know can easily avoid those pages.
The story unfolds across multiple narratives including both sets of parents and the police officers who attend the scene. I felt that this really added to the depth of the story as we get to hear their innermost thoughts, things they can’t even say to those closest to them. The characters are really put through the wringer and the tension keeps building and building, right up to the end of the book - the last chapter will leave you reeling!
I don’t normally cry when I’m reading but I had to put this book away when I was on a train to avoid embarrassing myself! This is such an accomplished debut novel and I can’t wait to see what G.D Wright writes next. I’d highly recommend it!
As you can imagine this is a very traumatic story and whilst I really enjoyed it, it might not be for everyone. This is acknowledged right at the start where readers are directed to the back pages for content warnings if they want to know more. I think this is the perfect way to do it as those who might be impacted by certain storylines can find out upfront and those that don’t want to know can easily avoid those pages.
The story unfolds across multiple narratives including both sets of parents and the police officers who attend the scene. I felt that this really added to the depth of the story as we get to hear their innermost thoughts, things they can’t even say to those closest to them. The characters are really put through the wringer and the tension keeps building and building, right up to the end of the book - the last chapter will leave you reeling!
I don’t normally cry when I’m reading but I had to put this book away when I was on a train to avoid embarrassing myself! This is such an accomplished debut novel and I can’t wait to see what G.D Wright writes next. I’d highly recommend it!
October 23, 2025
Absolutely gripping from start to finish. I loved this book and could not put it down.
Joe and Maria are best friends, at 6 years old they are growing up together, as Joe’s parents are both in the emergency services, he spends a lot of time being looked after by Andrew and Sophie (Maria’s parents). Chris and Linda so appreciate their friends helping them out with childcare while they go to work.
That is until one stormy day when the kids just want to go to the beach. Both kids go into the sea but only one comes out. Andrew manages to rescue his own daughter, Maria but Joe doesn’t survive.
Brilliantly written from multiple perspectives you can’t help but feel the emotions shimmering off the pages. The absolute heartbreak for Chris and Linda at the loss of their only child. The fear and guilt of Andrew as the events of that day in the sea begin to unravel. Paired expertly with the single minded determination of DS Willmott to uncover the truth.
By the end of it I wasn’t even sure whose side I was on and that just sums up the genius of this story. You can’t help but imagine the hell each individual is going through and their motivations are all so valid.
A stunning read that leaves its mark.
Joe and Maria are best friends, at 6 years old they are growing up together, as Joe’s parents are both in the emergency services, he spends a lot of time being looked after by Andrew and Sophie (Maria’s parents). Chris and Linda so appreciate their friends helping them out with childcare while they go to work.
That is until one stormy day when the kids just want to go to the beach. Both kids go into the sea but only one comes out. Andrew manages to rescue his own daughter, Maria but Joe doesn’t survive.
Brilliantly written from multiple perspectives you can’t help but feel the emotions shimmering off the pages. The absolute heartbreak for Chris and Linda at the loss of their only child. The fear and guilt of Andrew as the events of that day in the sea begin to unravel. Paired expertly with the single minded determination of DS Willmott to uncover the truth.
By the end of it I wasn’t even sure whose side I was on and that just sums up the genius of this story. You can’t help but imagine the hell each individual is going through and their motivations are all so valid.
A stunning read that leaves its mark.
August 10, 2025
OMG, this book!
What an absolute rollercoaster. I had a feeling this would be an emotional read from the cover, but boy was it an emotional one. I felt angry, frustrated, sadness and empathy. There were a few occasions that I was close to tears.
This author has an exceptional way of telling a story.
I enjoyed the multiple POV and the different timelines throughout the book. We were able to see through each of the characters pov which added to the suspense and the feel of the book.
I was gripped from the start, and the twists and turns throughout kept me reading on. This is the second book I’ve read from this author, having read Into The Fire as a proof earlier in the year, and I cannot wait to read whatever he writes next!
Absolutely highly recommend picking this book up!
What an absolute rollercoaster. I had a feeling this would be an emotional read from the cover, but boy was it an emotional one. I felt angry, frustrated, sadness and empathy. There were a few occasions that I was close to tears.
This author has an exceptional way of telling a story.
I enjoyed the multiple POV and the different timelines throughout the book. We were able to see through each of the characters pov which added to the suspense and the feel of the book.
I was gripped from the start, and the twists and turns throughout kept me reading on. This is the second book I’ve read from this author, having read Into The Fire as a proof earlier in the year, and I cannot wait to read whatever he writes next!
Absolutely highly recommend picking this book up!
July 25, 2024
#AfterTheStorm #NetGalley For a debut novel this certainly packed a punch. An emotional rollercoaster from the first page and a tragic and harrowing story. The build up of tension kept me reading way into the night. I really felt for both sets of parents at the beginning but as the story unfolded, I quickly sided with Joe's parents and I ended up disliking Andrew by the end. There was an explanation at the end but I still don't believe it excused Andrew for his actions. Whilst I hesitate to use the word enjoyable due to the subject matter it was a very great start to this authors career and I will certainly look out for more books by him in the future.
October 8, 2025
4.5
Two children went into the sea… only one came out alive!
Wow what an emotional rollercoaster this book was. I thought it was written perfectly and really tugged on the heart strings. One tragic event unfolded into even more tragedy. Split second decision which have so many consequences. Grief is so difficult to navigate and I felt this was a representation of how people deal with it differently.
A hard hitting, gripping story which I just couldn’t put down. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Two children went into the sea… only one came out alive!
Wow what an emotional rollercoaster this book was. I thought it was written perfectly and really tugged on the heart strings. One tragic event unfolded into even more tragedy. Split second decision which have so many consequences. Grief is so difficult to navigate and I felt this was a representation of how people deal with it differently.
A hard hitting, gripping story which I just couldn’t put down. I can’t wait to read more by this author.
December 2, 2025
Two children went into the sea. Only one came out alive. But who is to blame?
Andrew and Sophie take their daughter and her friend to the beach. Whilst momentarily distracted, both children get washed out to sea. Andrew dives in but only comes back to shore with one child, how own daughter, Maria. Joe, her friend, has drowned. It was just a tragic accident….wasn’t it?
This is an incredible debut novel. Just wow! So well written and emotional. You connect with the characters and are invested from the first chapter. Ultimately, it’s about how split second decisions can have grave consequences, and the fall out of those consequences can be far reaching. Grief and loss are deeply explored with a rawness and honesty that is heartbreaking. I’ll be thinking about this book long after my little review is forgotten.
Andrew and Sophie take their daughter and her friend to the beach. Whilst momentarily distracted, both children get washed out to sea. Andrew dives in but only comes back to shore with one child, how own daughter, Maria. Joe, her friend, has drowned. It was just a tragic accident….wasn’t it?
This is an incredible debut novel. Just wow! So well written and emotional. You connect with the characters and are invested from the first chapter. Ultimately, it’s about how split second decisions can have grave consequences, and the fall out of those consequences can be far reaching. Grief and loss are deeply explored with a rawness and honesty that is heartbreaking. I’ll be thinking about this book long after my little review is forgotten.
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