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The One Who Watches
It's no secret that love is a powerful emotion, in fact you may even argue it's the strongest emotion. Unfortunately for Leeana she grew up in an abusive household, so her mother was her only source of love and protection. Although, once her mother passes she is left without a sense of love or protection. To make matters worse, just as she believes she finally found who she was looking for, it's later taken away from her. Which drives Leeana to take drastic measures which ends up warping what she believes to be love.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 2, 2024
7 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 25, 2024
This gripping short horror story will captivate readers from the very beginning to the end. It masterfully combines various elements of horror, including mental derangement, body horror, mystery, and revenge, to create a truly enthralling experience.
From the outset, the narrative pulls you in with its eerie atmosphere and compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, the author skillfully navigates the complexities of the human psyche, delving into the depths of madness and desperation. The characters are intricately developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding layers of intrigue to the tale.
One of the most impressive aspects of the book is its ability to blur the lines between the protagonist and antagonist. As the story progresses, readers may find themselves sympathizing with characters they initially perceived as villains, a testament to the author's talent for crafting complex and morally ambiguous characters.
The One Who Watches leaves a lasting impression on the reader, lingering in the mind long after the final page has been turned. Its subtle nuances and chilling imagery ensure that it will continue to haunt readers, sparking moments of unease and trepidation long after the book has been finished.
This book is a must-read for fans of horror fiction. With its compelling narrative, well-drawn characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, it delivers a truly unforgettable reading experience. Zachary Ayers has crafted a masterpiece of horror that is sure to delight and terrify readers in equal measure.
From the outset, the narrative pulls you in with its eerie atmosphere and compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, the author skillfully navigates the complexities of the human psyche, delving into the depths of madness and desperation. The characters are intricately developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding layers of intrigue to the tale.
One of the most impressive aspects of the book is its ability to blur the lines between the protagonist and antagonist. As the story progresses, readers may find themselves sympathizing with characters they initially perceived as villains, a testament to the author's talent for crafting complex and morally ambiguous characters.
The One Who Watches leaves a lasting impression on the reader, lingering in the mind long after the final page has been turned. Its subtle nuances and chilling imagery ensure that it will continue to haunt readers, sparking moments of unease and trepidation long after the book has been finished.
This book is a must-read for fans of horror fiction. With its compelling narrative, well-drawn characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, it delivers a truly unforgettable reading experience. Zachary Ayers has crafted a masterpiece of horror that is sure to delight and terrify readers in equal measure.
September 3, 2025
When you deal with childhood trauma in a unique way you can get some very interesting results
So I loved the plot of this book it was very interesting with a unique twist. I do recommend the author do more research into human anatomy and police procedures though. The writing is also very telling instead of showing. But overall I think with more experience this author will be one to watch
So I loved the plot of this book it was very interesting with a unique twist. I do recommend the author do more research into human anatomy and police procedures though. The writing is also very telling instead of showing. But overall I think with more experience this author will be one to watch
March 12, 2024
by far the best so far. this story was insane from the beginning and had all of my attention.
a head trip for sure. absolutley devoured this book and cant wait for more of it.
10 out of 10 recommend
a head trip for sure. absolutley devoured this book and cant wait for more of it.
10 out of 10 recommend
April 22, 2024
I enjoyed the over all story! The main FMC essentially (literally) creating the perfect boyfriend out of body parts is so good. I just think this story is way too rich in plot to have been this short, I would’ve loved to see this be fleshed out more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
I couldn’t even force myself to finish this book. I found it on TikTok and thought it looked good ( yes I judged by the cover)
The writing is very juvenile, there are a significant amount of spelling and grammatical errors. The plot makes zero sense - had a difficult time following
It says Dillion is in 1997 waking up but the crime is taking place in 1995. Also it seems in one chapter that this is all happening on one or two days but then it has corpse rotting with maggots already- also blood will not still be pooling out of a body once it’s to the point of rotting, Rigamortus would have already set in as well as livor mortus.
I just feel like this book sounds like it would as thrown together in a night and was not proofed at all. It sounds like something an 8th grader would write
If I could give it zero stars I would.
The writing is very juvenile, there are a significant amount of spelling and grammatical errors. The plot makes zero sense - had a difficult time following
It says Dillion is in 1997 waking up but the crime is taking place in 1995. Also it seems in one chapter that this is all happening on one or two days but then it has corpse rotting with maggots already- also blood will not still be pooling out of a body once it’s to the point of rotting, Rigamortus would have already set in as well as livor mortus.
I just feel like this book sounds like it would as thrown together in a night and was not proofed at all. It sounds like something an 8th grader would write
If I could give it zero stars I would.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
SPOILERS AHEAD
This story had a lot of potential! Leeana is a very interesting woman with a troubled past, and because of this past, she is very twisted. She targets men that she finds attractive, and we don’t find out later in the book why she’s doing what she’s doing. Ultimately, she wishes to make “the perfect man” while also getting revenge against her foster parents.
I like how sick and twisted the FMC is in this. At first, we don’t know why, but when we learn a bit of her backstory, it makes sense. The scooping of the eyes was brutal enough, but then she does even more! I loved that this was basically a revenge horror story, very unique.
There were a few things that really took me out of the story at times. One of the first things was the inconsistencies with the use of phones. This story primarily takes place in the 90s, and we see many of the characters “texting” on their phones. This wasn’t really a feature during that time, and I found it to be confusing.
I also thought the character development was lacking a bit for most of the characters. Many of the characters felt like plot devices, and I would’ve liked to know more about them and their story. Like for instance, Dante. Why was Leeana so in love with him? How was he so special? He honestly came off a bit creepy to me, and maybe he was a predator, but that isn’t really explained. I just think fleshing the characters out more would’ve been good.
My last major complaint was the lack of dialogue. Most of what was said between characters was told to us in paragraph form without actually seeing the interactions through dialogue. It made it a bit hard to follow at times.
Overall, like I said, I think this story absolutely has potential, and this is only the first book from this author I’ve read. I’m looking forward to read the others!
This story had a lot of potential! Leeana is a very interesting woman with a troubled past, and because of this past, she is very twisted. She targets men that she finds attractive, and we don’t find out later in the book why she’s doing what she’s doing. Ultimately, she wishes to make “the perfect man” while also getting revenge against her foster parents.
I like how sick and twisted the FMC is in this. At first, we don’t know why, but when we learn a bit of her backstory, it makes sense. The scooping of the eyes was brutal enough, but then she does even more! I loved that this was basically a revenge horror story, very unique.
There were a few things that really took me out of the story at times. One of the first things was the inconsistencies with the use of phones. This story primarily takes place in the 90s, and we see many of the characters “texting” on their phones. This wasn’t really a feature during that time, and I found it to be confusing.
I also thought the character development was lacking a bit for most of the characters. Many of the characters felt like plot devices, and I would’ve liked to know more about them and their story. Like for instance, Dante. Why was Leeana so in love with him? How was he so special? He honestly came off a bit creepy to me, and maybe he was a predator, but that isn’t really explained. I just think fleshing the characters out more would’ve been good.
My last major complaint was the lack of dialogue. Most of what was said between characters was told to us in paragraph form without actually seeing the interactions through dialogue. It made it a bit hard to follow at times.
Overall, like I said, I think this story absolutely has potential, and this is only the first book from this author I’ve read. I’m looking forward to read the others!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
If you like spooky scary stories about gory serial killers told by high schoolers by a bonfire, this novella could be for you.
It was not for me though.
I am a nerd. And I happen to know a lot of weird facts. When I read something that contradicts the simplest of facts it irks me the most of all. Not gore, not typos, not writing style. It’s bloopers that could have been easily avoided with a quick google search.
Human bones don’t burn that easily to ashes. Period. There is a reason for crematoriums.
Also no one can convince me that a slim woman can easily and singlehandedly haul a grown up large man. Physics of human bodies don’t work this way. Here she manages to toss around at least 5 large men in a span of several hours - around the house, inside the basement, out the front steps, into the car one by one… as if she were a Terminator and them - plush bunnies who weigh nothing.
Then the credit card reference that “contained all the money my foster parents’ had given me over the years” (original spelling). Well, most people use checking or saving accounts for that.
Sleeping pills don’t work that fast.
I have a feeling that this was a novella written at a young age - most likely during high school. The writing style and a number of bloopers are not of a mature writer, more like an early draft or something written at a young age.
The writing in this book tells me that with a bit of a practice and a maybe some writing classes it can solidify and mature in the future.
The story itself though… it is NOT for me. Serial woman making herself an ideal Frankenstein monster?? Nope. Not for me.
It was not for me though.
I am a nerd. And I happen to know a lot of weird facts. When I read something that contradicts the simplest of facts it irks me the most of all. Not gore, not typos, not writing style. It’s bloopers that could have been easily avoided with a quick google search.
Human bones don’t burn that easily to ashes. Period. There is a reason for crematoriums.
Also no one can convince me that a slim woman can easily and singlehandedly haul a grown up large man. Physics of human bodies don’t work this way. Here she manages to toss around at least 5 large men in a span of several hours - around the house, inside the basement, out the front steps, into the car one by one… as if she were a Terminator and them - plush bunnies who weigh nothing.
Then the credit card reference that “contained all the money my foster parents’ had given me over the years” (original spelling). Well, most people use checking or saving accounts for that.
Sleeping pills don’t work that fast.
I have a feeling that this was a novella written at a young age - most likely during high school. The writing style and a number of bloopers are not of a mature writer, more like an early draft or something written at a young age.
The writing in this book tells me that with a bit of a practice and a maybe some writing classes it can solidify and mature in the future.
The story itself though… it is NOT for me. Serial woman making herself an ideal Frankenstein monster?? Nope. Not for me.
April 21, 2024
I met this author on Tiktok, and chose this book as his 1st book.
The story sucked me in immediately, then I stayed along for the ride to see where it would go.
I really enjoyed the different POV's thoughout the book.
The psyche of the main character I felt was both terrifying and compassionate.
Bravo to the author and his bravery with the plot twist, which I DID not see coming.
This is a straight up horror book that teeters on splatterpunk, but doesn't quite get there.......this is not a bad thing. The story is full of gore, body horror, SA, family drama/trauma, suspense, and action.
This a young author, who still has a lot to learn, but he is on the right path, and I look forward to seeing how he progresses.
The story sucked me in immediately, then I stayed along for the ride to see where it would go.
I really enjoyed the different POV's thoughout the book.
The psyche of the main character I felt was both terrifying and compassionate.
Bravo to the author and his bravery with the plot twist, which I DID not see coming.
This is a straight up horror book that teeters on splatterpunk, but doesn't quite get there.......this is not a bad thing. The story is full of gore, body horror, SA, family drama/trauma, suspense, and action.
This a young author, who still has a lot to learn, but he is on the right path, and I look forward to seeing how he progresses.
February 11, 2026
This story had a Frankenstein vibe to it, mixed with childhood trauma for a backstory to the MC. I was surprised on how hooked I was from the very beginning. I didn’t expect the story to shift the way it did. Plenty of times did I think something was about to go down and with a stroke of luck or lack of evidence/intuition nothing was detected.
I could visualise the story in my head. It would make a very good YouTube short movie.
With that being said, the book needed a little bit more research and editing and I wanted more character development. This author did a really good job at keeping my attention. Will I read more from him.. absolutely.
I could visualise the story in my head. It would make a very good YouTube short movie.
With that being said, the book needed a little bit more research and editing and I wanted more character development. This author did a really good job at keeping my attention. Will I read more from him.. absolutely.
April 18, 2024
Upfront, I found parts of this story disturbing, but intriguing to the point I had to finish. This is a short read, but it should be known that this is a horror, murder, or thriller.
As for the book, I found the build very interesting, and it kept me wondering where the author was going. The end was one I did not expect. I was pleasantly surprised. I also enjoyed that the author let us see slightly into the main character, psyche. This helps us understand what could lead to this person's development. As someone who enjoys murder documentaries, this was enjoyable
As for the book, I found the build very interesting, and it kept me wondering where the author was going. The end was one I did not expect. I was pleasantly surprised. I also enjoyed that the author let us see slightly into the main character, psyche. This helps us understand what could lead to this person's development. As someone who enjoys murder documentaries, this was enjoyable
March 14, 2024
Great Book
I really enjoyed this horror novella!
The things people will do to feel loved!
This was a twisted tale. I liked the fact that the Author used flashbacks to show how the MFC likely turned out how she did. It really gives the reader a chance to get to know the character, which is important in a shorter novella such as this.
There was an amazing revenge twist as well. Overall a great, spine chilling read!
Definitely Recommend!
I really enjoyed this horror novella!
The things people will do to feel loved!
This was a twisted tale. I liked the fact that the Author used flashbacks to show how the MFC likely turned out how she did. It really gives the reader a chance to get to know the character, which is important in a shorter novella such as this.
There was an amazing revenge twist as well. Overall a great, spine chilling read!
Definitely Recommend!
January 6, 2026
lord have mercy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5
I’m not one to read horror books but this book had me swiping and my jaw on the floor. First off, Leeana, girl, you’d do good with some— wait, no, a lot of therapy. Second I’m not even mad with that ending because I mean, justice WAS served in a sense…
This was a short and suspenseful read and I’m glad I gave it a chance. I mainly read romance but I would definitely recommend this to those who want to branch into the horror genre.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5
I’m not one to read horror books but this book had me swiping and my jaw on the floor. First off, Leeana, girl, you’d do good with some— wait, no, a lot of therapy. Second I’m not even mad with that ending because I mean, justice WAS served in a sense…
This was a short and suspenseful read and I’m glad I gave it a chance. I mainly read romance but I would definitely recommend this to those who want to branch into the horror genre.
February 14, 2024
yessss
I found this author through tiktok and I very much enjoyed this short novella. The plot twist was chefs kiss. The only reason I give it a 4.5/5 is because there was a few—and I mean a few things that could’ve been done. I feel like it was slightly rushed, and some more detail could’ve been added. Other then that, it was perfection.
I found this author through tiktok and I very much enjoyed this short novella. The plot twist was chefs kiss. The only reason I give it a 4.5/5 is because there was a few—and I mean a few things that could’ve been done. I feel like it was slightly rushed, and some more detail could’ve been added. Other then that, it was perfection.
March 23, 2024
I was shocked 😳
I- I’m speechless. I have never really liked horror movies. They give me the jeebies jeebies. But I wanted to get out of my comfort zone for this one and let me tell you. I was so speechless but impressive with the writing and the details. This book was so well written and gruesome.
I- I’m speechless. I have never really liked horror movies. They give me the jeebies jeebies. But I wanted to get out of my comfort zone for this one and let me tell you. I was so speechless but impressive with the writing and the details. This book was so well written and gruesome.
February 14, 2026
This is a short, sweet, and disturbing read. The initial start is a slow burn, but the nightmare starts to reel in when you least expect it. Some scenes would have been better with deeper details. The plot twist was unexpected and very well polished to the end. It's a decent read if you enjoy eerie vibes and love sick deranged girls.
March 2, 2026
Where do I start? This was a fast pace short story that peaked my interest immediately! Literally got to the gore and craziness from the jump. I’m glad I was able to read and review this book for Zachary as a new and young upcoming author he is doing a good job. Keep it up and it’s only up from here.
March 6, 2024
I found this author on Tik Tok. This was a short book that I read in one sitting. It gave Dexter vibes. I do think the time line was pretty rushed, but it still got the job done. The “plot twists” I kinda guessed those but this was a good thriller book.
February 12, 2026
finding a good man is hard work, leanna did what she had to do 🫣 this as a good story, although it was a little muddy at times for me. I felt there was a lot of povs from different characters which occasionally had me checking what I had just read as I was getting them mixed up
April 16, 2024
The making of a serial killer and how she got away with it. Intense, dark but so good. So many twists and turns I never saw coming! The ultimate revenge! Trigger warning!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2024
What a ride.. This girl is something else. How can someone get away with all of what she did. Well, you will have to read to find out.
July 17, 2024
A fast-paced, short horror read. Perfect amount of gore, with a crazy plot twist.
February 4, 2025
I love it
I really didn't see the ending coming and I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait for another one! Fantastic!
I really didn't see the ending coming and I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait for another one! Fantastic!
March 8, 2024
such a good short and fast-paced horror read!! Leeana is quite literally insane, but like, good for her i guess. i was definitely rooting for her throughout the book. does that make me insane??
March 24, 2024
This book was fast paced and really kept your interest. I loved the backstory and that it was easy to follow. Really liked that you get to follow from different perspectives, both from Leanna and also from the police. A really good book!
April 22, 2025
Wow, okay, so I didn’t expect to be so engrossed in this, but my goodness, it certainly draws you into the story. The foster parents and the girl who’s looking after the cops—I definitely enjoyed this. I could pick it up and just read it! So should you💛
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews