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What We Leave Behind
PC Alex Chambers is a good man who cares for the community of Kingston upon Thames of which he has become an integral part.
As every police officer knows, people, places, vehicles and buildings are often not what they first appear to be and on PC Chambers patch, one unassuming venue holds, hidden deep within it, a very dark secret.
With a chance meeting, as the chilly winter rain tumbles from a storm-filled sky, that secret will be revealed.
The exposure of the truth will not be for the better…
…but for far, far worse.
As every police officer knows, people, places, vehicles and buildings are often not what they first appear to be and on PC Chambers patch, one unassuming venue holds, hidden deep within it, a very dark secret.
With a chance meeting, as the chilly winter rain tumbles from a storm-filled sky, that secret will be revealed.
The exposure of the truth will not be for the better…
…but for far, far worse.
298 pages, Paperback
Published February 22, 2024
6 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
February 20, 2024
Of course I loved it. Took me long enough to write.
August 18, 2024
5 star, a plot that keeps you guessing
I loved this book. I honestly did not see the twists coming, and just when I thought I'd figured out one part of the story,the author surprises me with something else.
Well written with a mixture of likeable characters, I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good murder plot, (graphic descriptions of violence in story)and twists and turns that keep you guessing to the end.
I loved this book. I honestly did not see the twists coming, and just when I thought I'd figured out one part of the story,the author surprises me with something else.
Well written with a mixture of likeable characters, I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good murder plot, (graphic descriptions of violence in story)and twists and turns that keep you guessing to the end.
March 20, 2025
Love love love!
July 16, 2024
Wow! Where to start…..
This book was epic! Can I just say I LOVED THIS BOOK!
follows the story of Alex who is a police officer who meets Gerald an old man who is sadly suffering with dementia. The way the author has written the book it’s very smart and thought through, the way in which this books connect really did leave my jaw on the floor 😳😱
I loved each of the characters and how this book was shocking and compelling, also a touch of humour which made this book even more addictive! I would highly recommend this cosy thriller to anyone who loves a thriller 🥰🥰 this is without a doubt a 5 star read
DID I MENTION I LOVED THIS BOOK? 👀
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was epic! Can I just say I LOVED THIS BOOK!
follows the story of Alex who is a police officer who meets Gerald an old man who is sadly suffering with dementia. The way the author has written the book it’s very smart and thought through, the way in which this books connect really did leave my jaw on the floor 😳😱
I loved each of the characters and how this book was shocking and compelling, also a touch of humour which made this book even more addictive! I would highly recommend this cosy thriller to anyone who loves a thriller 🥰🥰 this is without a doubt a 5 star read
DID I MENTION I LOVED THIS BOOK? 👀
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 15, 2024
Was highly recommended this book and it did not disappoint. Even after knowing this was a Police story with a difference, nothing could have prepared me for the journey I was about to go on.
An unusual mix of crime, humour and fantasy, there was not a dull moment throughout and this is a book that appeals to fans of all genres.
Cannot wait to read more from this author 😊
An unusual mix of crime, humour and fantasy, there was not a dull moment throughout and this is a book that appeals to fans of all genres.
Cannot wait to read more from this author 😊
July 6, 2024
Overall 4.75 ⭐️'s.
This book was such an adventure of craziness. It was a roller-coaster ride from start to finish. Not only is it a thriller filled with suspense, but it's also filled with a ton of sarcasm and humor. The character development is perfect.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
This book was such an adventure of craziness. It was a roller-coaster ride from start to finish. Not only is it a thriller filled with suspense, but it's also filled with a ton of sarcasm and humor. The character development is perfect.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
November 4, 2024
5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A thoroughly impressive debut that left me wanting more! 😍
This book takes you on such an unexpected voyage through an amalgamation of themes and genres and I absolutely loved it!
PC Alex Chambers is a good man who cares for the community of Kingston upon Thames of which he has become an integral part. As every police officer knows, people, places, vehicles and buildings are often not what they first appear to be and on PC Chambers patch, one unassuming venue holds, hidden deep within it, a very dark secret. With a chance meeting, as the chilly winter rain tumbles from a storm-filled sky, that secret will be revealed. The exposure of the truth will not be for the better… but for far, far worse.
With a thought provoking prologue followed by a surprising opening chapter, this read had an incredibly impactful start. The book commences slowly, but gradually picks up pace as it culminates and it worked very well.
I liked Alex’s character and the community work he was doing. I learned a lot about the police force and I also really liked Haywood’s use of humour throughout.
There is more than what meets the eye in this thriller and I loved its twisty nature. The foreboding atmosphere festers from the beginning and this really added to the enjoyment of the book.
At times as I was blindsided and then I was left speechless and this really demonstrates Haywood’s craft. I loved this book, its messages and I also thought it ended perfectly.
A huge thank you to @authordavehaywood for this copy of What We Leave Behind. I cannot wait to read the next instalment! 😍
Go and check out this more than meets the eye thriller! 👀
💬: ‘Caring costs nothing, hate costs you everything’.
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A thoroughly impressive debut that left me wanting more! 😍
This book takes you on such an unexpected voyage through an amalgamation of themes and genres and I absolutely loved it!
PC Alex Chambers is a good man who cares for the community of Kingston upon Thames of which he has become an integral part. As every police officer knows, people, places, vehicles and buildings are often not what they first appear to be and on PC Chambers patch, one unassuming venue holds, hidden deep within it, a very dark secret. With a chance meeting, as the chilly winter rain tumbles from a storm-filled sky, that secret will be revealed. The exposure of the truth will not be for the better… but for far, far worse.
With a thought provoking prologue followed by a surprising opening chapter, this read had an incredibly impactful start. The book commences slowly, but gradually picks up pace as it culminates and it worked very well.
I liked Alex’s character and the community work he was doing. I learned a lot about the police force and I also really liked Haywood’s use of humour throughout.
There is more than what meets the eye in this thriller and I loved its twisty nature. The foreboding atmosphere festers from the beginning and this really added to the enjoyment of the book.
At times as I was blindsided and then I was left speechless and this really demonstrates Haywood’s craft. I loved this book, its messages and I also thought it ended perfectly.
A huge thank you to @authordavehaywood for this copy of What We Leave Behind. I cannot wait to read the next instalment! 😍
Go and check out this more than meets the eye thriller! 👀
💬: ‘Caring costs nothing, hate costs you everything’.
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
February 22, 2024
I follow Dave Haywood online and have been waiting with great anticipation for What We Leave Behind to be published.
WOW!! The hype certainly did not disappoint. A very unique concept unlike anything I have ever read before. So well written and in particular, the attention that has been paid to the back story. This brings the characters to life and pulls the whole tale together making it a mesmerizing read.
The story is like no other. You expect this is going to be a regular crime thriller, but don’t be fooled! It takes you on a journey that is so unpredictable that you will want to read it all over again. I know I do! No spoilers, you have to find out for yourselves!
A fantastic and fresh writing style and approach. I couldn’t put it down once I started. I don’t think any other novel has provoked such a reaction from me before – it made me smile and scream in equal measure. I even felt compassion for the villain at times!
This is testament to the talent of this new author and I wish him every success. Here’s hoping he has more to unleash, we need more like this on our bookshelves!
WOW!! The hype certainly did not disappoint. A very unique concept unlike anything I have ever read before. So well written and in particular, the attention that has been paid to the back story. This brings the characters to life and pulls the whole tale together making it a mesmerizing read.
The story is like no other. You expect this is going to be a regular crime thriller, but don’t be fooled! It takes you on a journey that is so unpredictable that you will want to read it all over again. I know I do! No spoilers, you have to find out for yourselves!
A fantastic and fresh writing style and approach. I couldn’t put it down once I started. I don’t think any other novel has provoked such a reaction from me before – it made me smile and scream in equal measure. I even felt compassion for the villain at times!
This is testament to the talent of this new author and I wish him every success. Here’s hoping he has more to unleash, we need more like this on our bookshelves!
May 12, 2024
So to begin, you meet Alex, local PC who loves his job. Always making time to talk to the public and keep them safe. He loves nothing better than being a “Bobby on the beat”.One rainy day he takes cover (on the hope for a cuppa and a biscuit) in a local elderly care home where he meet Gerald.
Gerald never uttered a word the whole time he lives at Shady Oaks, but everything is about to change when unsuspecting Alex decided to take a seat and keep him company.Gerald begins to tell Alex a story. A horrific story of a family being destroyed at the hands of the father. Alex thinks it’s a great story from the old man…but that’s all he thinks it is… a story.
Gerald ends up telling 3 stories to Alex throughout the book of death and bloody murders. As the story progresses Alex doesn’t realise what lies in store for him. Eventually he and his wife figure of the connection of Gerald’s stories. But it’s too late.
I really enjoyed this twisty page turner! Especially found Alex’s internal monologue so funny. With lots of twists & turns you never know which way the pages will take you. Unexpected events kept my interest and the suspense was intense. A brilliant thriller- but I’m giving no spoilers. A must read for sure!
Gerald never uttered a word the whole time he lives at Shady Oaks, but everything is about to change when unsuspecting Alex decided to take a seat and keep him company.Gerald begins to tell Alex a story. A horrific story of a family being destroyed at the hands of the father. Alex thinks it’s a great story from the old man…but that’s all he thinks it is… a story.
Gerald ends up telling 3 stories to Alex throughout the book of death and bloody murders. As the story progresses Alex doesn’t realise what lies in store for him. Eventually he and his wife figure of the connection of Gerald’s stories. But it’s too late.
I really enjoyed this twisty page turner! Especially found Alex’s internal monologue so funny. With lots of twists & turns you never know which way the pages will take you. Unexpected events kept my interest and the suspense was intense. A brilliant thriller- but I’m giving no spoilers. A must read for sure!
February 29, 2024
The author cleverly weaves together many characters and storylines with just enough information to help you feel like you are on a journey with him... but plenty of mystery to make you go "aaaaah" when all is revealed. It can be extremely frustrating when this kind of story doesn't tie together well, but this one definitely does not disappoint.
I also loved the references and insight into life in the met police - insight that could never be gained just from research, but clearly someone who has "walked the walked" for a number of years.
Just enough hints of humour, and hint of compassion for all, to keep you from being swirled too much into the dark underbelly of society. A page turner for sure, which I don't hesitate to recommend.
I'm ready for the sequel now.
I also loved the references and insight into life in the met police - insight that could never be gained just from research, but clearly someone who has "walked the walked" for a number of years.
Just enough hints of humour, and hint of compassion for all, to keep you from being swirled too much into the dark underbelly of society. A page turner for sure, which I don't hesitate to recommend.
I'm ready for the sequel now.
February 26, 2024
Absolutely loved this book, so many twists and turns, a debut novel from Dave Haywood. 👏 a psychological crime story, with the characters drawing you in and being so true to life. Policing as we the public never see or hear about. I am patiently waiting for the second book. No spoilers from me, you’ll have to buy it and read it, which you will enjoy. This is an author that I will definitely be following.
November 2, 2025
WOW... this book was amazing! from 'WTF moments', 'laughing my ass off' to 'sad crys' truly an amazing read! I couldn't put it down!!
March 1, 2024
Great first book from this author. So many twists and turns and such a shock at the end. Can't wait for the next one to come out.
May 4, 2024
Wow where to begin! This was a great psychological thriller. It had many twists and turns and spooked me! I will admit I had to adjust to the amount of POVs it confused me a little, but the author did a great job at tying everything together! It was a chilling story that will definitely haunt me!
October 3, 2025
A story about secrets, memory, and the kind of darkness that creeps in quietly, What We Leave Behind is a twisty, genre blending thriller that surprised me in all the best ways.
🚓 A local police officer with a heart of gold and a knack for finding trouble 🧠 A man with dementia whose stories might be more than fiction 🌧️ A rainy day encounter that unearths something truly chilling
Dave delivers a debut that’s part crime thriller, part psychological mystery, and part supernatural horror. PC Alex Chambers is a genuinely likable lead... funny, kind, and just a little too trusting. His bond with Gerald, the silent resident of Shady Oaks unfolds slowly but powerfully, and the stories Gerald shares? Let’s just say they’re not bedtime material.
The pacing starts off gentle, but once the pieces begin to click into place, it’s a rollercoaster of suspense, gore, and emotional gut-punches. The multiple POVs add depth, and the twisty structure keeps you guessing. Some moments felt a little chaotic, but the payoff was worth it.
I buddy read this with my book besties, and we were all hooked by the halfway mark. The ending left us like OMG! I'm already planning to read on! If you like thrillers with heart, horror with meaning, and stories that ask what we owe to memory, this one’s worth picking up.
🚓 A local police officer with a heart of gold and a knack for finding trouble 🧠 A man with dementia whose stories might be more than fiction 🌧️ A rainy day encounter that unearths something truly chilling
Dave delivers a debut that’s part crime thriller, part psychological mystery, and part supernatural horror. PC Alex Chambers is a genuinely likable lead... funny, kind, and just a little too trusting. His bond with Gerald, the silent resident of Shady Oaks unfolds slowly but powerfully, and the stories Gerald shares? Let’s just say they’re not bedtime material.
The pacing starts off gentle, but once the pieces begin to click into place, it’s a rollercoaster of suspense, gore, and emotional gut-punches. The multiple POVs add depth, and the twisty structure keeps you guessing. Some moments felt a little chaotic, but the payoff was worth it.
I buddy read this with my book besties, and we were all hooked by the halfway mark. The ending left us like OMG! I'm already planning to read on! If you like thrillers with heart, horror with meaning, and stories that ask what we owe to memory, this one’s worth picking up.
April 12, 2024
Great read. There are lots of surprising twists!
March 16, 2024
Not easy reading with a cat on your lap! She seemed to enjoy the book too, cats being partial to a bit of horror. I’m not one to do reviews as a rule but Dave Heywood deserves every encouragement. So having dusted off my Kindle & downloaded the book, I read it in a day. Unputdownable without a doubt, it pulls you in and makes you care about Alex, the protagonist. As a debut novel this is quite extraordinary. I love police procedurals, both to read and on TV, and this hits the spot, with an added twist of horror. It’s almost like reading multiple books at once as you go from chapter to chapter. There is a feeling of time dislocation too with dementia and confusion as part of the story. Being set locally in Kingston-upon-Thames adds to the fun. When I say fun, there is a lovely gentle humour about the descriptions of day to day policing, leading me to suspect that more than a few of the characteristics of Alex’s colleagues are drawn from life. It’s difficult to say much about the plot of the book without spoilers, so I won’t. The gentleness makes the brutal horror even more startling and effective, and Dave can also write well about desire, which many authors struggle with. I could quite see this making a great movie and look forward to more books to come.
March 22, 2024
I devoured this in a single sitting. I could not stop flicking the pages!!!
Firstly - what a debut story from Dave. Well done on such a unique story arc that had my heart racing and jaw hitting the floor!What I thought was going to be a classic crime/thriller had me totally fooled!
PC Alex Chambers is a really likeable character. He’s hard working, dedicated to his loving wife with a cheeky, fun side to him. The journey he is taken on in this story had me gasp. I really don’t want to even hint at any spoilers because the fact I heard nothing before I read it really helped my imagination just run wild and remain unbiased. But it’s one hell of a ride!
There’s a really edge to the mystery along with breadcrumbs throughout to keep us following the story. There’s some humour amongst the sinister and darkness of the plot. I had so many thoughts as to where the story was going and when the penny dropped I was like ‘WHAT THE F’!!!!!
The climax had my heart racing and my eyes couldn’t scan the pages quick enough! A really unique story arc and I hope you’ll enjoy this as much as I did.
Firstly - what a debut story from Dave. Well done on such a unique story arc that had my heart racing and jaw hitting the floor!What I thought was going to be a classic crime/thriller had me totally fooled!
PC Alex Chambers is a really likeable character. He’s hard working, dedicated to his loving wife with a cheeky, fun side to him. The journey he is taken on in this story had me gasp. I really don’t want to even hint at any spoilers because the fact I heard nothing before I read it really helped my imagination just run wild and remain unbiased. But it’s one hell of a ride!
There’s a really edge to the mystery along with breadcrumbs throughout to keep us following the story. There’s some humour amongst the sinister and darkness of the plot. I had so many thoughts as to where the story was going and when the penny dropped I was like ‘WHAT THE F’!!!!!
The climax had my heart racing and my eyes couldn’t scan the pages quick enough! A really unique story arc and I hope you’ll enjoy this as much as I did.
March 16, 2024
What We Leave Behind by Dave Haywood
There’s a lot more going on in this book than just a mystery. The first-person perspective and unique writing style make for an absorbing tale, with some detailed, intriguing aspects that will give the reader the feeling of experiencing the police from the inside.
There are some gruesome chapters; this is not a book for the faint-hearted.
There are twists and turns. It will make you laugh, recoil and gasp. Chances are you will be angry with Mr Haywood for putting you through it all, but you’re going to keep turning the pages, anyway. You will need to know just a bit more…
I’ll be buying his next one, that’s for sure. Once I’ve forgiven him for putting me through this one. 🙂
There’s a lot more going on in this book than just a mystery. The first-person perspective and unique writing style make for an absorbing tale, with some detailed, intriguing aspects that will give the reader the feeling of experiencing the police from the inside.
There are some gruesome chapters; this is not a book for the faint-hearted.
There are twists and turns. It will make you laugh, recoil and gasp. Chances are you will be angry with Mr Haywood for putting you through it all, but you’re going to keep turning the pages, anyway. You will need to know just a bit more…
I’ll be buying his next one, that’s for sure. Once I’ve forgiven him for putting me through this one. 🙂
July 16, 2024
This book just wasn't for me. It wasnt a bad read or anything, and I like the twist, but for me, it wasn't the thriller I thought it would be. I did get lost a few times on who's POV I was reading from or who was speaking. Over all a good book and worth the read as it may be right up your alley.
July 25, 2024
I read this along with others from my book club, I am not a thriller reader.....however I was hooked from start to finish. I loved the character building and the story line was just amazing. I don't want to give spoilers but it's a well thought out story that executed beautifully and the twist was brilliant and unexpected.
May 15, 2024
As some people say, "I devoured," No, "I inhaled this book" - I had to force myself to put it down 70% of the way in, because of adulting responsibilities, how rude is that?
What a fantastic read - I wish I could speak more about what I loved about this book, go into detail about it more, but I don't want to ruin the plot for anyone who reads this review, we know that with thrillers, even a little hint can give away so much, so please BUY IT! READ IT! SHARE IT! 😂 You'd be supporting an amazing indie author who wrote a fantastic first novel.
Amid all the crime, and paranormal that is happening in the book, some moments are so incredibly quotable, you read it and it resonates, it stays with you and makes you think.
"The mind, in its wisdom, understands that not all memories should be easily accessible. Just as we shield our eyes from a blinding sun, we shield our hearts from the searing pain of the past. It's a form of self-compassion, a shield against the relentless assault of anguish."
Beautiful! *Chef's kiss*
When you think the story told you what happened, and you go "I KNEW IT," nope... think again! Here is a twist, and another! Not enough? Lets tug at your emotions too! Also, I love the fourth wall breaking, not many authors do it, but to me YES! Have the narrator talk to me! I LOVE IT! It makes me part of the book and it thrills me. THANK YOU!
Alex (the main character) is so relatable that I saw my husband in some of his quirks. His banter, sarcasm, his love for tea (and a good biscuit), his nerdiness for superheroes, the silly things and words that make him giggle, tehee! How much he just loves to help people, how much he loves his wife - It felt like Alex and Claire were myself and my husband! and I loved it!
Easily, a 5 star read (to me!), and I highly recommend it to anyone that loves thrillers, paranormal, crime, and mystery.
I wish I could forget about it, so I can read it again as if I never read it before!
I cannot wait to read more books from this Author!
Much love,
✎ᝰJessi
What a fantastic read - I wish I could speak more about what I loved about this book, go into detail about it more, but I don't want to ruin the plot for anyone who reads this review, we know that with thrillers, even a little hint can give away so much, so please BUY IT! READ IT! SHARE IT! 😂 You'd be supporting an amazing indie author who wrote a fantastic first novel.
Amid all the crime, and paranormal that is happening in the book, some moments are so incredibly quotable, you read it and it resonates, it stays with you and makes you think.
"The mind, in its wisdom, understands that not all memories should be easily accessible. Just as we shield our eyes from a blinding sun, we shield our hearts from the searing pain of the past. It's a form of self-compassion, a shield against the relentless assault of anguish."
Beautiful! *Chef's kiss*
When you think the story told you what happened, and you go "I KNEW IT," nope... think again! Here is a twist, and another! Not enough? Lets tug at your emotions too! Also, I love the fourth wall breaking, not many authors do it, but to me YES! Have the narrator talk to me! I LOVE IT! It makes me part of the book and it thrills me. THANK YOU!
Alex (the main character) is so relatable that I saw my husband in some of his quirks. His banter, sarcasm, his love for tea (and a good biscuit), his nerdiness for superheroes, the silly things and words that make him giggle, tehee! How much he just loves to help people, how much he loves his wife - It felt like Alex and Claire were myself and my husband! and I loved it!
Easily, a 5 star read (to me!), and I highly recommend it to anyone that loves thrillers, paranormal, crime, and mystery.
I wish I could forget about it, so I can read it again as if I never read it before!
I cannot wait to read more books from this Author!
Much love,
✎ᝰJessi
December 30, 2024
4.5⭐️ Marked up ☺️
Side-note:
So I had taken a while to read this one (I ARC read a lot and do put due review books first) and I got ill a couple times so my sincerest apologies to the Author for taking so long to read WWLB!
—
It started off slow, with plenty of chuckles with Alex’s humour, and then curiosity & questioning things around Gerald.
The main plot was a very decent read, I did get confused a couple times with who the chapter was about at certain points but generally I got most.
The genre in particular makes the readers question things which is always a fun part of reading, so I was starting to form theories quite early on, and I’m a huge Crime fan so my mind loved racing to different theories. BUT there’s multiple genres with the read which I won’t spoil on saying which.
The last 30-35% really gets your mind flowing and you start to get answers to what you’ve questioned throughout.
Plenty of pop culture references, Author did all his research when necessary, it was a well put together read and I enjoyed it! Looking forward to the next book when I purchase my copy soon ☺️
Would I recommend it to others: Yes, specially those who like this genre. And of course I’d recommend to carry on the series with the next instalment If We Were One & also start Dave’s other book series with The Darktouched.
Side-note:
So I had taken a while to read this one (I ARC read a lot and do put due review books first) and I got ill a couple times so my sincerest apologies to the Author for taking so long to read WWLB!
—
It started off slow, with plenty of chuckles with Alex’s humour, and then curiosity & questioning things around Gerald.
The main plot was a very decent read, I did get confused a couple times with who the chapter was about at certain points but generally I got most.
The genre in particular makes the readers question things which is always a fun part of reading, so I was starting to form theories quite early on, and I’m a huge Crime fan so my mind loved racing to different theories. BUT there’s multiple genres with the read which I won’t spoil on saying which.
The last 30-35% really gets your mind flowing and you start to get answers to what you’ve questioned throughout.
Plenty of pop culture references, Author did all his research when necessary, it was a well put together read and I enjoyed it! Looking forward to the next book when I purchase my copy soon ☺️
Would I recommend it to others: Yes, specially those who like this genre. And of course I’d recommend to carry on the series with the next instalment If We Were One & also start Dave’s other book series with The Darktouched.
June 4, 2024
Well… how am I supposed to sleep now? No, just kidding. Good story, a bit of humor and well written. I’m between a 4 and a 4.5 star rating for this book.
⬇️ Some of my favorite quotes - without giving spoilers 😉
“Steam rose from the kettle as I shoved a chocolate hobnob into my mouth, getting crumbs in my now salt- and-pepper beard”
“The emergency shirt… Exactly what reassures the public. An officer giving a death message while smelling like Hell’s armpit.”
“It was a stark reminder that time was a finite source, and as each movement of a clock’s hand ticked by they were propelled into an even more uncertain future.”
Oh and this was my face on page 134 (physical copy)😮. If you know you know.
⬇️ Some of my favorite quotes - without giving spoilers 😉
“Steam rose from the kettle as I shoved a chocolate hobnob into my mouth, getting crumbs in my now salt- and-pepper beard”
“The emergency shirt… Exactly what reassures the public. An officer giving a death message while smelling like Hell’s armpit.”
“It was a stark reminder that time was a finite source, and as each movement of a clock’s hand ticked by they were propelled into an even more uncertain future.”
Oh and this was my face on page 134 (physical copy)😮. If you know you know.
June 8, 2024
I like the odd crime/thriller but usually my preferred genre is fantasy. Dave's instagram marketing is phenomenal and has me giggling a lot so I decided to check it out... and wow! this is definitely not like any other crime/thriller. I D.E.V.O.U.R.E.D it. in 3 days (to put that into perspective...I read 3 books in 31 days last month)
I absolutely loved the main character of Alex and the writing style. It had me chuckling, it had me gasping and it gave me goosebumps. I also loved how the chapters were shorter and how all the separate stories pulled together.
I was told that wherever I thought the book was going I was wrong... which was amusing because up until around page 150 I had literally no theories! but indeed there are many twists and turns.
I'd recommend this to everyone, regardless of what genre you usually read.
I absolutely loved the main character of Alex and the writing style. It had me chuckling, it had me gasping and it gave me goosebumps. I also loved how the chapters were shorter and how all the separate stories pulled together.
I was told that wherever I thought the book was going I was wrong... which was amusing because up until around page 150 I had literally no theories! but indeed there are many twists and turns.
I'd recommend this to everyone, regardless of what genre you usually read.
July 22, 2025
This mix of paranormal and real-world fiction was a proper twisted tale.
It did start off a little on the slow side, but it does pick up once we've been acquainted with the characters.
I enjoyed the multiple points of view and how fantasy and paranormal are entwined within the story.
The "All" will keep you guessing, and the story within a story keeps things engaging and interesting, giving a deeper thought process to our dear friend with dementia.
The author doesn't shy away from the gruesome or gory scenes, and the ending comes as quite the shock, fast-paced and full of suspense.
I dare say, don't get too attached to characters, but if you're like me, you'll never learn 😅
I'm looking forward to book two!
It did start off a little on the slow side, but it does pick up once we've been acquainted with the characters.
I enjoyed the multiple points of view and how fantasy and paranormal are entwined within the story.
The "All" will keep you guessing, and the story within a story keeps things engaging and interesting, giving a deeper thought process to our dear friend with dementia.
The author doesn't shy away from the gruesome or gory scenes, and the ending comes as quite the shock, fast-paced and full of suspense.
I dare say, don't get too attached to characters, but if you're like me, you'll never learn 😅
I'm looking forward to book two!
February 24, 2024
A new author with a flair for psychological crime thrillers with a twist. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this, lots of twists and subtle clues are there for you to find to help you solve this. The humour and knowledge of police procedures is spot on and if you are or were part of policing you will have met every character mentioned at some point. The characters are well described as are all the emotions they are going through…. the positive, happy and also devastation and frustrations of policing. Well worth a read and I for one am looking forward to the next book, by who I consider a very talented writer, it left me on high that’s for sure.
June 26, 2024
An engaging debut novel by Dave Haywood with a good couple of twists.
For me the first half of the story was engaging enough to keep me interested and continue reading, but it was a tad bit slow. It was at the 60% mark that this books pacing changed and I was fully invested. In all honesty I did struggle a few times with the POV changes and working out who’s view I was reading for that chapter and there was a lot of description that I felt unnecessary but these are very minor things. The twist in the last quarter of this book was great.
A solid debut and Dave shows great potential as an author. I will certainly be looking out for more from him in the future
For me the first half of the story was engaging enough to keep me interested and continue reading, but it was a tad bit slow. It was at the 60% mark that this books pacing changed and I was fully invested. In all honesty I did struggle a few times with the POV changes and working out who’s view I was reading for that chapter and there was a lot of description that I felt unnecessary but these are very minor things. The twist in the last quarter of this book was great.
A solid debut and Dave shows great potential as an author. I will certainly be looking out for more from him in the future
September 21, 2024
This book confused me so much. I didn't know which characters pov I was reading until I got used to the writing style. Once I did get used to it, this turned out to be a unique and haunting story. The main character, PC Alex, is a human ray of sunshine throughout this book and takes everything in his stride, always looking for the positives. Alex was a great character, even though he was written as a bit of a man-child, e.g, Moist *Giggles*. The story itself was such a great plot with loads of twists and turns I didn't expect. It really picked up for me around the 65% mark, and the ending was very satisfying. Overall, I'd give this one a go as it is a surprising read.
May 30, 2024
I loved this book. I was hooked from the first chapter, wanting to know what forces were at play.
As an ex cop myself I could relate to some of the experiences and enjoyed the familiarity.
The twists and turns in the story kept me interested wanting more, and with each chapter did not disappoint. It was intriguing, humorous, and kept me guessing throughout. I loved it.
As an ex cop myself I could relate to some of the experiences and enjoyed the familiarity.
The twists and turns in the story kept me interested wanting more, and with each chapter did not disappoint. It was intriguing, humorous, and kept me guessing throughout. I loved it.
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