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All In Her Head: A Dark Psychological Thriller of Secrets, Obsession and Dangerous Manifestation

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"Character drives plot in this twisty and toxic thriller that deals with cohesive control and female empowerment.” —Holly Craig

"An extremely brave book where you can really hear the character's voice.” —Philippa East

"Just when you thought Paula couldn't possibly top THE LIES SHE TOLD, along comes her incredible second novel. It is a masterclass of how to write a twisty, dark thriller that ultimately leaves you right on the edge of your seat. Gut punching twists that left me breathless.” —Reader review

"Oh my God. She's only gone and done it again... but even better!” —The Book Club Scotland

"Obsessed! Paula is a literary genius!” —Reader review

________________________________________________________Cassie has no job, no friends, and no luck. But in a world where the cards never lie, the self-proclaimed Tarot Reader becomes entangled in a devious web of lies with the mysterious Finlay Munro. As the two become closer, the voices in her head grow louder. Should she trust in his guidance or follow her own instinct?



Blair has the perfect boyfriend, home, and life with the charismatic George. With outside
influence threatening her dream life, who can she turn to for help with navigating the treacherous waters ahead?



Two women, each on their own journey, find themselves connected by a singular thread in this hazardous thriller.

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2024

9 people are currently reading
63 people want to read

About the author

Paula Johnston

28 books39 followers
Paula Johnston is a Scottish writer from Glasgow, in her early thirties. Her debut novel, 'The Lies She Told', is a totally immersive psychological thriller that proves every prize has a price - especially desire. Soon to be released is her second novel, ‘All In Her Head’, a compulsive thriller with a supernatural edge.

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5 stars
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33 (43%)
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13 (17%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Natalie  all_books_great_and_small .
3,141 reviews168 followers
July 18, 2024
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Insta Book Tours.

All In Her Head is a captivating psychological thriller with suspense and unease that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
The story has three POV: Blair who's loved up with the man of her dreams, Cassie who's reclusive and spends her time reading tarot for clients but is lonely with just her cat Lunar and the voice in her mind that speaks to her, and an unnamed mysterious character. As the characters' stories become entwined together, we are taken on a twisty ride of suspense, narcissistic behaviour, and darkness to make your head spin.
This is my first book by this author, and I will definitely be checking out her other works.
Check trigger warnings.
Profile Image for Julie (JuJu).
1,175 reviews220 followers
July 11, 2024
Thanks to #Instabooktours for inviting me on the #booktour for Paula Johnston’s latest thriller “ALL IN HER HEAD.”

Prepare for a chilling read by the incredibly talented thriller author Paula Johnston! This captivating tale is told from the perspectives of three intriguing characters: Cassie, Blaire, and an enigmatic figure. I love a mysterious unnamed character!

Independent and spirited, Blaire's life takes a dark turn when the man of her dreams starts draining the life out of her after a visit with his mother. Meanwhile, Cassie, a mysterious recluse who reads tarot cards, becomes entangled in an intense and obsessive relationship with a customer. As their stories intertwine, you'll be taken on a dark journey into the world of narcissism and disturbing relationships, leading to a mind-blowing and dark conclusion!

With its profoundly emotional and intricate prose, this novel guarantees a gripping and unforgettable read. Get ready to be swept away by Paula Johnston's exceptional storytelling that will leave you wanting more!

Thank you to the author and publisher for providing this gifted ARC. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily.

#AllInHerHead #PaulaJohnston
Profile Image for Jessica Huntley.
Author 22 books435 followers
April 23, 2024
This was a hugely anticipated book for me! And it ticked all the right boxes.
While the concept of tarot cards doesn't appeal to me, I did find it interesting and enjoyed the underlying theme of the book. I knew it was building to something big, and I wasn't wrong!

The characters are strangely likeable, even though they seem a bit childish at times. I did guess one of the twists, but this didn't take away from the reading experience. I love Paula's writing style and found myself swept up in the story.

The ending was explosive and addictive and just what I wanted from this thriller. The ghost visions in the book were confusing and I didn't feel it was explained properly at the end though. However, it gave an overall next level to the story, and I physically gasped at one point!

A brilliant thriller for anyone who loves slow burns, ghosts, tarot cards and girl power!
Profile Image for Kelly (kellyinbookland).
281 reviews35 followers
December 3, 2024
Read with my book club and this was our thoughts:

This months Wee Witch book club book was 'All In Her Head' by Paula Johnson who is a local Scottish author. I first discovered Paula when I read her debut work 'The Lies She Told' which was a 5 star read for me. I suggested this one to the club when I heard it was a book that involved Tarot and supernatural elements.

Our club consists of many members who have studied and practice Tarot, some who offer it out to querents, we also have one fabulous member in particular who teaches classes and has over 25 years experience. With that being said, we were an extremely hard crowd to please and we weren't going to miss any small details when it came to the Tarot aspects. For this reason, I think this is where a lot of the members weren’t particularly keen on how those elements were described in the book. There definitely was a general consensus, that the Tarot elements slightly missed the mark, in part, because some of the elements we felt had been misrepresented. However on reflection, we did wonder if this was deliberate, perhaps as a way to show how novice one of the main characters was at the craft?

A few of our members started off the book completely in love and relating to one of the main characters. This began to dissipate during the novel when the character progressed, but this shows how well the book unravelled because it was clear that this was Paula's intention and she excuted it extremely well.

On a personal note, my favourite part, as well as a few other members, was the way she brought the Southside of Glasgow to life. Between the descriptions of the Southside, Ashton Lane and the surrounding areas of Glasgow, it really made the book more relatable and helped us to easily conjure up the places described while reading. Our member, Rae, reiterated this as they grew up in the Southside and she said they could imagine it very easily as it was described perfectly, bringing back so many nostalgic memories for her.

One element we all loved was Paula’s very ironic use of a rose quartz crystal. It really gave us wee witches quite the giggle. Anytime I look at a rose quartz now I’ll be reminded of this.

Overall, the book was very fast paced and had plenty of twists and I couldn’t put it down. I did feel at the end I was left with some questions. Maybe it’s because we haven’t seen the last of these characters? Perhaps there is a part 2 in the works?
Profile Image for Kelly Ann.
189 reviews6 followers
July 1, 2024
Blair is in a blissful relationship with her dream man. She is living her happily ever after. Cassie is lonely with only her cat Luna and the voices in her head for company. She gets by reading tarot cards for the people that come to her. Suddenly, these women find themselves in each other's stories and what comes next is dark, troubling and truly shocking.

My quick take - this book was great!

My thoughts - I love this kind of psychological thriller and Johnston's writing was fully captivating! Through multiple POVs, you get to know these characters and their lives very well. The way that Johnston builds the suspense and intensity throughout had me on edge and made the story that much more unsettling. I did have a sense of the direction it was going but that just made me more anxious, the anticipation of what was around the corner pushing me to keep turning pages!

I will admit, this took me a while to read purely because life got in the way but I know for a fact if I had picked it on a day off when I was curled up at home, I would've read it in one sitting! It's gripping, engaging and shocking! It was such a great read and I wish Paula every success with it! It's a triumph and she should be so proud of this gem!

* Please check trigger warnings, there are some very heavy themes in this one 💜
Profile Image for Chloe.
109 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2024
◇Synopsis- Tarot Reader Cassie has no real job, no friends and no luck. She can fake it till she makes it right? But in a world where the cards never lie, it's not long before she finds herself entangled in a dangerous web of lies with the handsome yet mysterious Finlay Munro. As the two grow closer, the voices in Cassie's head grow louder. Can she trust him?

Confident and independant Blair has the perfect boyfriend, home and life with charming George. But when cracks begin to show and outside influences begin to threaten her dream life, who can she turn to for guidance?

As the two women become entangled in eachothers story, it soon becomes clear that someone's mask is about to slip.

◇Review- This was an easy, fast paced read told mainly in Cassie's POV. I slightly struggled with this as I found her inner thoughts really annoying but on reflection the author accurately painted a detailed picture of a girl with distorted views of her own self confidence and abilities, aswell as the thought process of an active DV victim. The book generally had me gripped with numerous dark twists. My only criticism really is the ending, the whole build up to a certain event was executed brilliantly but ended pretty abruptly but I wonder if this was perhaps deliberate for a potential sequel, though it didnt take away from the read as a whole.
Profile Image for Sam | Sambooka23.
701 reviews31 followers
July 2, 2024
I was given the fantastic opportunity to be a beta reader for the lovely Paula last year for this book and man, I’m so glad the day has finally arrived and she’s officially a PUBLISHED AUTHOR! This book is out in the world so if I were you, I’d go read it. Buy it and read it because it’s a rollercoaster of a ride, full of twists and turns… and kept me on the edge of my seat.

Johnston has a way with words. I thought I’d figured what was going to happen but then she threw a spanner in the works for me and I was wrong. So very wrong!

I love how Johnston interprets her love for all things tarot into this book. Whilst it’s not something I know much about, it’s an interesting concept throughout - adds to the atmosphere and tension of the book.

The characters are a little annoying but enjoyable at the same time. Cassie drove me insane at times with her childish behaviour yet I did notice the character growth in her throughout.

The book was very tense and the ending was on another level. There were some points that I wanted Paula to explore more and go into a bit more detail nevertheless, the book was very dramatic and thrilling.

Another excellent thriller from our very own, Paula Johnston!
Profile Image for Amy Thomas.
179 reviews10 followers
July 5, 2024
Tarot reader Cassie is anxious, out of her depth, and all alone in her home. Apart from the voices in her head. Obsessed with a world where the cards never lie, and desperate to make a change, Cassie becomes entangled in a dangerous web with a mysterious customer.
Blair is confident, independent, and believes she has the perfect life. Outside influence is the last thing she needs. Living in a swanky new pad in the Southside of Glasgow, she's finally ready to settle down with the type of man you would kill to keep.
TWO WOMEN
ONE THIN, COMMON THREAD
THEIR FUTURE…UNKNOWN

I have been waiting eagerly for this book ever since I read The Lies She Told by the same author (which was fantastic!). I really loved the sound the this one and so couldn't wait to get started reading.

The author's writing style is extremely easy to read and flows smoothly as the story unfolds. You can physically feel the suspense building with each turn of the page and left me feeling eerily unsettled, but kept me going back for more. Told from multiple POVs, the characters are well written with clear personalities and development, and the dialogue felt natural.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this and would recommend!
Profile Image for Nicola Hancock.
520 reviews7 followers
July 16, 2024
It took me a while to figure out what was going on. But I started to piece together the pieces. I was mortified for Blair having two coeliac children myself. By the end of chapter 14 things started to make a lot more sense to me including the male characters. I really enjoyed the tarot readings, knowledge of crystals, and the texting but I couldn’t help having alarm bells ringing thinking Cassie please no. I was surprised how much I loved the intense feeling of being on egg shells too. The intensity of Finlay Monro being dark, beautiful and yet so dangerous.

If you’ve read the lies she told you’ll absolutely adore this next read by Paula. I was kept in anticipation the whole time wondering who the unknown was. I definitely found it easy to connect to Cassie’s traits especially as she’s the same star sign as me. I loved the references to movies too. The further you get into the book the more intense, exciting and addictive it becomes so stick with it. It’s a brilliant read and one that had me on the edge until the very end.
Profile Image for Sharon Williams.
593 reviews9 followers
July 15, 2024
Thank you to @instabooktours for inviting us onto this book tour.

This book will have you gripped from the beginning it starts with chapters between cassie and Blair and to start with I was like what is going on but as it goes on it becomes very clear what is going on and the fact they have both been suckered in by one man finlay or George depending what he's calling himself.

They both think he's the perfect man but gradually this theory soon disappear and they both realise they have made a terrible mistake as things take an ugly turn will cassie escape.

But before cassie leaves she discovers a hidden journal that she thinks is Blairs but is it as she keeps thinking she can see and hear things.

This book has so.many twists and the ending was very good. I was hooked and had to just keep reading. You just keep wanting more and you get it.

A very good read. Can't wait for more from Paula.
Profile Image for Vix.
559 reviews23 followers
July 31, 2024
3.5 rounded to 3 stars for Goodreads.

Manipulation and mind games doesn't even begin to describe what these poor ladies encounter in this story.

I understood Blair and felt for her more than Cassie to begin with. Blair seemed to have had a relationship develop before George showed his true colours, whereas Cassie just leapt into Finlay's arms headfirst for no discernible reason. But as the story progressed and I saw how Cassie's world and self-value shrank due to that monster, my heart went out to her.

I did guess quite a few of the twists before they were revealed, but was waiting for the characters reactions. Also, I felt the last bit was slightly jarring - I'm not sure what to believe.

Overall, a chilling story showing that people aren't always what they seem, we don't really know what they are like behind closed doors - and by then it might be too late.

*I received a complementary copy of the e-book from InstaBookTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Lauren Griffiths.
344 reviews14 followers
July 3, 2024
This book was brilliant! Honestly, I loved everything about it, It’s definitely a contender for one of my faves so far this year!

The story is told through 3 different POV - Cassie, Blair and a mystery person. The plot was fantastic and I honestly couldn’t put it down! I really enjoyed the dark sense of humour that was portrayed throughout the book and I’ve got to agree with Blair that “coffee first” before tackling any huge life decisions!

I took this book on holiday with me and I had to tell the kids I needed to go out the pool so I can read another chapter! A fantastic and gripping thriller, I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time!

I would actually love to see this book made into a movie, it is definitely one I would love to watch!

Highly recommend! Easy 5 stars from me.

Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Lost_in_her_bookland .
203 reviews11 followers
July 16, 2024
Obsessed. Paula, is a literary genius. To review this book is to simply tell you to read it. Read it, become obsessed and you'll love her and All in Her Head as much as I did.

AIHH is packed with heightened anticipation and eagerness, it has you pacing and shaking, desperately trying to peice it all together. Dual POV's often leave me trailing behind but the characters in AIHH had me devoured instead. It is dark, harrowing and psychologically tripping.

This is a very special review for me as I have been privileged to have followed this story from its very first words. I have watched and begged Paula to pursue her dreams and never give up. She deserves every happiness AIHH brings. Having read this in drafts, edit and finalised I can honestly say it's outstanding. Paula you are a powerhouse and I'm so proud of you.
Profile Image for Esther Bultitude.
335 reviews5 followers
June 30, 2024
I loved Paula’s first novel so this one was a highly anticipated read for me and it didn’t disappoint.

It was dark and twisty with some truly horrid characters in it. The gaslighting towards Cassie was dreadful and her emotional abuse she suffered really made her withdraw into herself.

I did find the voices she heard a little confusing as I wasn’t sure if it was something she was imagining or something she became more in-tune with as she suffered more and more at the hands of her captor.

I enjoyed the ending and although it wasn’t quite what I was expecting I thought it brought everything together well.

The writing was great and kept me entertained throughout and I struggled to put this one down. Another great book by Paula and I can’t wait for the next as she’s on a roll!
Profile Image for andshe.reads.
675 reviews20 followers
July 3, 2024
Well, this was deliciously dark and rather disturbing. A story about not everything being quite as it seems and that it's true what they say you never know what happens behind closed doors. 

Character wise, despite their flaws and quirks, they were highly likeable. I liked Cassie more, so after the plot twist. 

Talking of plot twists, I suspected something huge was coming, but I didn't guess what, so I was shocked when it came to it. I found myself really absorbed into the narrative. This authors writing is superb.

Overall, it was a great thrilling read with some super unexpected moments. Perfect for slow burn thriller fans. 

Thank you to InstaBookTours, Paula Johnston, for a copy of the e-book and tour spot. 
Profile Image for Abbie Morrison .
181 reviews7 followers
July 11, 2024
‘All In Her Head’ 🔮 by Paula Johnston
.
Tarot reader Cassie is anxious, out of her depth, and all alone in her home.

Apart from the voices in her head.

Obsessed with a world where the cards never lie, and desperate to make a change, Cassie becomes entangled in a dangerous web with a mysterious customer.

Blair is confident, independent, and believes she has the perfect life.

Outside influence is the last thing she needs.

Living in a swanky new pad in the Southside of Glasgow, she's finally ready to settle down with the type of man you would kill to keep.

TWO WOMEN
ONE THIN, COMMON THREAD
THEIR FUTURE…UNKNOWN
.
WOW WOW WOW Paula Johnston has done it again! This was a highly anticipated read for me after loving ‘The Lies She Told’ and it did not disappoint!!

The way in which the author writes is so easy to follow and grips you in, leaving you wanting to know more. I felt myself saying ‘just one more chapter’ at 2am, and not wanting to stop.

The descriptions are so vivid I could picture exactly what I thought the characters looked like and their surroundings. Living in the Southside of Glasgow where this is set, might also have helped with that.

The second half of the book was EXPLOSIVE. A few times I thought I knew exactly where this was going & I was wrong!

A very dark and twisty psychological thriller to leave you on the edge of your seat! Definitely one to pick up ☺️📖
.
AD/PR @instabooktours @paulajohnstonauthor - thanks for the advanced copy! 🥰

13 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2024
Brilliant. The plots intricately weave together when you can’t see how they’ll be able to at the beginning and then bit by bit they click into place and it blows your mind.
This book gave me chills and spooky spiritual vibes which I loved and really enjoyed! It was a fresh take but really current and the ending did not disappoint and left me shook!
Another great book by Paula who writes in so much rich detail, it really immerses you in the story and has you fully invested in the characters. A cracker! Read this in one sitting in a few hours as could not put it down!
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,690 reviews12 followers
July 8, 2024
Having previously toured with The Lies She Told, which was Johnston's debut, I knew that All in Her Head was going to be just as good, if not better. It didn't disappoint.

Narrated from multiple POV, Johnston takes us on a dark journey into the disturbing depths of relationships, tarot and narcissism.

It flows at a moderate pace with the opening paragraphs immediately drawing you in to the story.

The characters were well developed, their story plausible, and their development grew the further we ventured.

I love a great suspenseful thriller and All in Her Head hit the spot perfectly. Definitely one to recommend.
Profile Image for Michaela.
1,510 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2024
Well this was dark and disturbing.

A true tale of something not quite being what it seems.

Cassie has well and truly isolated herself from life and other people. After meeting Finlay her life seems to be improving and she quickly falls in love. But is it the fairytale ending she is hoping for?

A twisty turny thriller.
1 review
April 13, 2025
Couldn’t put it down!!

I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump and thought I’d give this book a go as I had it sitting a while. I could not put it down!! I was absolutely gripped and ended up reading it in a day. Kids and uni work neglected (lol) but I really enjoyed it. Can’t wait to read more of Paula’s work!
Profile Image for Helen Simpson.
1,222 reviews40 followers
July 10, 2024
Wow a book that packs a punch and had me on the edge of my seat. Throughout the book has you guessing where the story will lead. Piecing the puzzle together i enjoyed the different POV's including the unknown. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
125 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2025
3.5 because (as in her first book) I didn’t like (understand?) the ending
Profile Image for Danielle Amor.
742 reviews4 followers
July 12, 2024
The story in emojis: 🃏🕯📔

My Top 3 things from this book:
•Alternating POV
•Tarot Card/ Spiritual Medium aspect
•The Ending!

This book has been such an anticipated read and it absolutely exceeded my expectations!

I was hooked from the very beginning and could have easily devoured this in one sitting as it was ADDICTIVE!

The twist of the end was a bit of a shocker to me, I still have a lot of questions from the book as so much is eluded to, without actually going into further detail… clever, very clever!

I loved Cassie/ Nova, she was a great character who developed further as the story progressed.

I can’t recommend this book enough, Paula has a really unique voice for story telling and her books are really immersive in a dark and disturbing manner. Also check out Paula’s debut book “The Lies She Told” which is also 5 ⭐️’s!
1 review
April 14, 2025
"All In Her Head" is a gripping thriller that I couldn't put down! From the first page, the suspense had me hooked, and I flew through the chapters. The storytelling is amazing, and the author Paula has a real knack for creating complex, relatable characters. Having read both of her books, I can confidently say she's become one of my favorite authors. If you're looking for a fast-paced, engaging read, this one's a must! I recommend this book to everyone I speak to
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