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Prey
Will history repeat itself?
Moving from a London deep in the terror of the Blitz to the seemingly safer London of 2019, two women have to fight for their lives to survive a ruthless killer �in this dual timeline psychological thriller that will make your hair stand on end!
London, 1941. Amongst the air-raid sirens and horrors of bombings, artist Harriet Yorke manages Calla a small community of people from different backgrounds - but good friends who pull together in times of crisis.
Like most Londoners contending with the Blitz, Harriet has grown used to withstanding danger, but when she goes on a late-evening stroll with her Cairn terrier, George, and finds herself face to face with a killer, she unleashes a series of events that will put more than just her own life on the line . . .
London, 2019. Libby lives amongst her grandmother's paintings in Calla House - works of art into which Harriet poured all the horror of her wartime experiences, culminating in that one terrifying night.
Libby's Calla House is a comfortable safe haven for her and its other residents - until, that is, a crumbling chimney pot sparks an alert. Libby calls in builders, but as her troubles magnify, she begins to wonder if the ghosts of Harriet's past aren't going to bring more than the house down around her ears . . .
Fans of Charlie Donlea's The Girl Who Was Taken and Riley Sager's The Only One Left will thoroughly enjoy this unputdownable creepy and suspenseful novel, filled with unexpected twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing until the very end!
Moving from a London deep in the terror of the Blitz to the seemingly safer London of 2019, two women have to fight for their lives to survive a ruthless killer �in this dual timeline psychological thriller that will make your hair stand on end!
London, 1941. Amongst the air-raid sirens and horrors of bombings, artist Harriet Yorke manages Calla a small community of people from different backgrounds - but good friends who pull together in times of crisis.
Like most Londoners contending with the Blitz, Harriet has grown used to withstanding danger, but when she goes on a late-evening stroll with her Cairn terrier, George, and finds herself face to face with a killer, she unleashes a series of events that will put more than just her own life on the line . . .
London, 2019. Libby lives amongst her grandmother's paintings in Calla House - works of art into which Harriet poured all the horror of her wartime experiences, culminating in that one terrifying night.
Libby's Calla House is a comfortable safe haven for her and its other residents - until, that is, a crumbling chimney pot sparks an alert. Libby calls in builders, but as her troubles magnify, she begins to wonder if the ghosts of Harriet's past aren't going to bring more than the house down around her ears . . .
Fans of Charlie Donlea's The Girl Who Was Taken and Riley Sager's The Only One Left will thoroughly enjoy this unputdownable creepy and suspenseful novel, filled with unexpected twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing until the very end!
223 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
15 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Hilary Norman
50 books38 followersBorn and raised in London, loved reading but deeply lazy about writing at school, preferring drama. A brief acting career, then moved into the production side at the BBC's radio drama department - later at London's Capital Radio, by which time the writing "switch" had been flicked on. Spent as much time as possible travelling in the US, working and writing. First novel, IN LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP published in 1986 after five years of writing. Wrote sagas with big dramatic finishes in the early days, and then, as the body count rose, made the move into psychological suspense and thrillers. Last book LAST RUN soon out in trade paperback, and the latest (and 20th) -RALPH'S CHILDREN - out soon in hardcover.
Living in London with husband Jonathan, and dog Poppy.
Living in London with husband Jonathan, and dog Poppy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 9, 2024
My thanks to Severn House Publishing, Hilary Norman and Netgalley.
This was a mixed bag for me. I absolutely loved the first section and the heroine was fabulous! Then came the second half. Whoa! What a change of pace. I absolutely hated it.
I'm not even reviewing this thing. Lets just say that I'll probably stay away from any future books from this author.
This was a mixed bag for me. I absolutely loved the first section and the heroine was fabulous! Then came the second half. Whoa! What a change of pace. I absolutely hated it.
I'm not even reviewing this thing. Lets just say that I'll probably stay away from any future books from this author.
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September 27, 2024I’m sorry to say this is a DNF for me. Although I read the whole first part, and sections of the second part, I just couldn’t relate to the characters. In fact, what always throws me off in a book is mentioning lots and lots of people who have no further role in the book. The first part reads like a family tree and is of no interest as soon as they’re mentioned.
There was some tension in the first part and I could understand why the killer did what he did (serial killers often have very strange motives) but no, on the whole I wasn’t impressed.
Thanks to Severn House and Edelweiss for this title which I found in the To Download section.
There was some tension in the first part and I could understand why the killer did what he did (serial killers often have very strange motives) but no, on the whole I wasn’t impressed.
Thanks to Severn House and Edelweiss for this title which I found in the To Download section.
October 2, 2024
Hilary Norman’s Prey is a gothic serial killer thriller that plays out over a couple of timeframes. The first half of the novel is set in London during the blitz and involves a woman who accidentally uncovers the work of a serial killer. The second half moves to 2019 and that woman’s granddaughter, still living in the same house. This section ramps up with gothic, with strange occurrences and accidents but also another potential killer on the loose.
The first half of Prey is the better half but it is still not that great. It is exposition heavy (why is the serial killer as he is, who are all the people living in the house and what is their backstory) and so never really has the chance to flow. But the overarching danger of nightly bombings and the blackouts that accompany them, gives this section an extra element of threat. The second half of the novel is okay, but fails to really engage. Readers have to come to terms with essentially a new cast of characters, although many of which are pitched as avatars, or reflections of characters from the first half. And then there is the fact that Norman plays with the idea that this is some form of gothic horror before the penny drops, the red herrings are put away and the present day events become a weird facsimile of those of the past.
Prey’s best defining feature is that it is short. But even so, Norman still spends seems to spend alot of time with monologuing villains, the second of which fails to really sell their particular strain of pathology. That said, Norman’s job is to deliver some creepiness, put her main characters in jeopardy, build to a twist, provide some action and get out. She does all of that twice in Prey when once might have been enough.
The first half of Prey is the better half but it is still not that great. It is exposition heavy (why is the serial killer as he is, who are all the people living in the house and what is their backstory) and so never really has the chance to flow. But the overarching danger of nightly bombings and the blackouts that accompany them, gives this section an extra element of threat. The second half of the novel is okay, but fails to really engage. Readers have to come to terms with essentially a new cast of characters, although many of which are pitched as avatars, or reflections of characters from the first half. And then there is the fact that Norman plays with the idea that this is some form of gothic horror before the penny drops, the red herrings are put away and the present day events become a weird facsimile of those of the past.
Prey’s best defining feature is that it is short. But even so, Norman still spends seems to spend alot of time with monologuing villains, the second of which fails to really sell their particular strain of pathology. That said, Norman’s job is to deliver some creepiness, put her main characters in jeopardy, build to a twist, provide some action and get out. She does all of that twice in Prey when once might have been enough.
December 8, 2024
It's taken me a while to get to this book. I started it before it was published but as it kicks off in 1941 it didn't hold my attention. I'm not a fan of historical fiction (and of anything war-related in particular). I'd assumed this would be a dual timeline book - the present being impacted by crimes of the past. And I have to say I think it might have worked better if Norman had flicked back and forth in time a little... particularly given two of our narrators (Harriet in 1941 and Libby in 2019) are related (albeit a generation or two apart).
Back in 1941 we're introduced to Albert Ashcroft a boy who adored his raven-haired mother and was devastated by her death (either suicide or at the hands of his abusive father). Decades later he's married but taking revenge on the world by killing red-haired women (after removing their hair). The first half of the book ends with his capture (thanks to almost-victim Harriet and her future husband) and we move to 2019 when 'eventually' we reach a point where Libby (Harriet's granddaughter) is targeted by Albert's grandchild.
The present-day killer is obviously bearing a very large grudge and it felt a little irrational that they would happily admit their grandfather was a sociopathic killer but at the same time blame the granddaughter of the woman who was almost his final victim.
The backcover blurb references the house hiding secrets as if it's the link between the present and past... which isn't really the case (other than potential victims living there). The historical part of the novel worked a little better for me because it was partially told by Albert himself and I wonder if the section set in 2019 might have similarly been shared from the point of view of the killer connecting me more to the plot of that timeline.
Back in 1941 we're introduced to Albert Ashcroft a boy who adored his raven-haired mother and was devastated by her death (either suicide or at the hands of his abusive father). Decades later he's married but taking revenge on the world by killing red-haired women (after removing their hair). The first half of the book ends with his capture (thanks to almost-victim Harriet and her future husband) and we move to 2019 when 'eventually' we reach a point where Libby (Harriet's granddaughter) is targeted by Albert's grandchild.
The present-day killer is obviously bearing a very large grudge and it felt a little irrational that they would happily admit their grandfather was a sociopathic killer but at the same time blame the granddaughter of the woman who was almost his final victim.
The backcover blurb references the house hiding secrets as if it's the link between the present and past... which isn't really the case (other than potential victims living there). The historical part of the novel worked a little better for me because it was partially told by Albert himself and I wonder if the section set in 2019 might have similarly been shared from the point of view of the killer connecting me more to the plot of that timeline.
January 4, 2025
Two women, decades apart are both haunted by strange happenings as they live in Calla House in London - can they overcome the mystery and evil that stalks them through time? They are grandmother and granddaughter, made of the same tough material. But sometimes evil is too much to bear…
This book is told in two parts: Part One follows Harriet’s story in 1941, and Part 2 follows Libby’s story in 2019, so there’s no switching between the two timelines, if you don’t like that storytelling technique. I found it an interesting way to experience the story; it was almost like reading two interconnected vignettes.
As I said, I enjoyed getting to know Calla House and its occupants- I completely devoured this book in like two days! Each story was interesting and completely enthralling. And especially in Libby’s story, I thought I had everything figured out, but then things took a complete 180 and I was blindsided by the twists and turns of things! Oh, and I when I tell you the bad guys are messed up, trust me, they are MESSED. UP.
I wish we could have had some more tine with Harriet and Libby both. It felt like we were just getting to know our heroines when the stories were over, but I guess that’s how it goes with these things, especially when dealing with dueling timelines. But I really liked each young woman and getting to share in her experiences. I wouldn’t mind returning to Calla House in the future, if that were possible.
Also the B stories of the romance(s) were nice. That’s all I’ll say. (no spoilers!)
Overall, this book was a great suspenseful thriller that I just couldn’t get enough of! I’m torn on the style of splitting the plot, but maybe it’s just because I wasn’t ready to let go of the characters. I loved them too much!
This book is told in two parts: Part One follows Harriet’s story in 1941, and Part 2 follows Libby’s story in 2019, so there’s no switching between the two timelines, if you don’t like that storytelling technique. I found it an interesting way to experience the story; it was almost like reading two interconnected vignettes.
As I said, I enjoyed getting to know Calla House and its occupants- I completely devoured this book in like two days! Each story was interesting and completely enthralling. And especially in Libby’s story, I thought I had everything figured out, but then things took a complete 180 and I was blindsided by the twists and turns of things! Oh, and I when I tell you the bad guys are messed up, trust me, they are MESSED. UP.
I wish we could have had some more tine with Harriet and Libby both. It felt like we were just getting to know our heroines when the stories were over, but I guess that’s how it goes with these things, especially when dealing with dueling timelines. But I really liked each young woman and getting to share in her experiences. I wouldn’t mind returning to Calla House in the future, if that were possible.
Also the B stories of the romance(s) were nice. That’s all I’ll say. (no spoilers!)
Overall, this book was a great suspenseful thriller that I just couldn’t get enough of! I’m torn on the style of splitting the plot, but maybe it’s just because I wasn’t ready to let go of the characters. I loved them too much!
September 29, 2024
This book follows two timelines, the first being in wartime England and the second being more modern day of the granddaughter of the main character in the first timeline. The villains were interesting and unique, and the wartime setting really had me hooked on the scene setting.
There is a ‘villain’ in each timeline, and whilst the build up is interesting, I think some of the context given is unnecessary, where other details are missed out. I felt more focus could’ve been given in the first timeline, as I didn’t grow any connection to any of those characters.
Libby, the focus of the second section of the book, I did build a bit more of a connection with as we spent more time building her character. Overall I think there were just too many names and background characters which made it hard to keep track of who’s who. It was an interesting and at times tense read and I did enjoy it, however it was over complicated in some places and under complicated in others
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC❤️
There is a ‘villain’ in each timeline, and whilst the build up is interesting, I think some of the context given is unnecessary, where other details are missed out. I felt more focus could’ve been given in the first timeline, as I didn’t grow any connection to any of those characters.
Libby, the focus of the second section of the book, I did build a bit more of a connection with as we spent more time building her character. Overall I think there were just too many names and background characters which made it hard to keep track of who’s who. It was an interesting and at times tense read and I did enjoy it, however it was over complicated in some places and under complicated in others
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC❤️
August 11, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. We follow two different timelines, the earliest happening during World War II and the London Blitz where we follow Harriet as she navigates a world where night time bombings are a common occurrence, and the mysterious noise she hears one night while walking her dog. Harriet's life is quickly filled with danger when she becomes the target of a serial killer.
The second timeline follows Harriet's granddaughter, Libby, who is still living in her grandmother's house. Libby's life seems to unravel following a number of mishaps that leave her feeling as though her life has suddenly slipped out of her control.
I really enjoyed the premise of the book, however it felt like a lot of the story was just "filler" rather than actual scenes necessary to the story. The villain in each timeline was unnecessarily wordy to me, and while I understand what the author was trying to do with the twist in the story, the connection between the villains just wasn't there for me.
The second timeline follows Harriet's granddaughter, Libby, who is still living in her grandmother's house. Libby's life seems to unravel following a number of mishaps that leave her feeling as though her life has suddenly slipped out of her control.
I really enjoyed the premise of the book, however it felt like a lot of the story was just "filler" rather than actual scenes necessary to the story. The villain in each timeline was unnecessarily wordy to me, and while I understand what the author was trying to do with the twist in the story, the connection between the villains just wasn't there for me.
September 13, 2024
This is a new author to me but I have discovered that she has written several other books. This is a book of two halves. The first is set during the Blitz in London and the second is the present day. Something happens in 1941 that causes someone to take a particular course of action in the present. The links between the stories are the house and family. I enjoyed the story, the pace was good and the characters for the most part were interesting. My only criticism was that I noticed lots of American spellings despite the book being published in the UK. I will look out for more by the author.
July 29, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I had really high hopes for this book and overall it was a decent read. I just had a hard time with the serial killer killing women for their hair???? it was just such an odd thing. I enjoyed the overall premise of the book I just feel some of the minor details could have been executed better.
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC!
I had really high hopes for this book and overall it was a decent read. I just had a hard time with the serial killer killing women for their hair???? it was just such an odd thing. I enjoyed the overall premise of the book I just feel some of the minor details could have been executed better.
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC!
October 4, 2024
This was an interesting book - a serial killer set during the 1940’s and we go on the journey with him and I have to admit being so caught up I’d forgotten it was a duel timeline story when the first part ended suddenly. The story then continues in 2019. This physiological thriller had a few twists and turns along the way. I enjoyed the first part of the book more than the second part.
October 27, 2024
long story short: serial killer goes after gingers, story about a girl then it goes on with her granddaughter. Solid enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2025
It's 1941, and London is in the grip of the Blitz. Ignoring the advice of her lodgers, artist Harriet Yorke picks her way through the ruined streets to walk her dog, confident that no ill fortune will afflict her. That is until the night she encounters a man behaving strangely and unwittingly finds herself the latest target of a serial killer using the chaos of the bombings to cover his tracks.
Nearly eighty years later, Harriet's granddaughter Libby lives in her grandmother's old house with her own collection of tenants. The only sign of the horrors which her home once withstood are the collection of Harriet's paintings - canvases on which she depicted the darkness and terror of her wartime experiences. But when a crumbling chimney pot indicates underlying structural damage to the house, it is just the first in a series of events that will show Libby that sometimes the past doesn't want to let go.
The contemporary language deployed in the 1941 chapters brings a strangely cosy Enid Blyton-esque energy, which is at odds with the more straightforward suspense atmosphere of the later chapters. While there were moments of palpable tension in the 2019 timeline, I never felt truly convinced by the 1941 killer. The pace of this section is also not helped by the copious amounts of exposition we are given to explain his back story and motivation. That said, though the 2019 timeline saves its explanation for a final confrontation, this antagonist felt unlikely as well. The narrative may have been more effective had the author opted to cut between the two timelines; this would also have helped to emphasise the links and commonalities between Libby and Harriet.
Overall, Prey is a decently enjoyable - if unremarkable - suspense story with enough twists to keep the reader engaged. Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Nearly eighty years later, Harriet's granddaughter Libby lives in her grandmother's old house with her own collection of tenants. The only sign of the horrors which her home once withstood are the collection of Harriet's paintings - canvases on which she depicted the darkness and terror of her wartime experiences. But when a crumbling chimney pot indicates underlying structural damage to the house, it is just the first in a series of events that will show Libby that sometimes the past doesn't want to let go.
The contemporary language deployed in the 1941 chapters brings a strangely cosy Enid Blyton-esque energy, which is at odds with the more straightforward suspense atmosphere of the later chapters. While there were moments of palpable tension in the 2019 timeline, I never felt truly convinced by the 1941 killer. The pace of this section is also not helped by the copious amounts of exposition we are given to explain his back story and motivation. That said, though the 2019 timeline saves its explanation for a final confrontation, this antagonist felt unlikely as well. The narrative may have been more effective had the author opted to cut between the two timelines; this would also have helped to emphasise the links and commonalities between Libby and Harriet.
Overall, Prey is a decently enjoyable - if unremarkable - suspense story with enough twists to keep the reader engaged. Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2024
Two mysteries merge into one with mixed results in Prey, Hilary Norman’s gothic mystery.
In the first part of the book, the reader is introduced to Harriet Yorke. Harriet is an artist living in London during the Blitz in 1941. However, she soon finds herself in additional danger when she becomes the target of a serial killer.
This section starts strong; the background on what led to the serial killer’s origin adds depth to the character, and the plot is intriguing. The writer does a good job of building tension throughout this section, and when the reader is transported to 2019, it is clear the past will come up again.
Unfortunately, things fall apart in the second part. The second half feels like a less well-done version of the first half, and I felt like I was waiting to see how everything connected without being fully invested. The other part that lets it down is the second villain’s story is not explored like in the first part; while this is done to build suspense, it makes it less compelling.
Overall, this was a good gothic mystery and would be an enjoyable read for a rainy day. I only wish the author had spent time only focusing on the first half or written it with flashbacks, as the 2019 setting lets the rest of it down.
In the first part of the book, the reader is introduced to Harriet Yorke. Harriet is an artist living in London during the Blitz in 1941. However, she soon finds herself in additional danger when she becomes the target of a serial killer.
This section starts strong; the background on what led to the serial killer’s origin adds depth to the character, and the plot is intriguing. The writer does a good job of building tension throughout this section, and when the reader is transported to 2019, it is clear the past will come up again.
Unfortunately, things fall apart in the second part. The second half feels like a less well-done version of the first half, and I felt like I was waiting to see how everything connected without being fully invested. The other part that lets it down is the second villain’s story is not explored like in the first part; while this is done to build suspense, it makes it less compelling.
Overall, this was a good gothic mystery and would be an enjoyable read for a rainy day. I only wish the author had spent time only focusing on the first half or written it with flashbacks, as the 2019 setting lets the rest of it down.
September 10, 2024
I’m in two minds with this one.
The first half of the book is based during the Second World War. The majority is told like a recap of major life points for each of the characters until you get to the point where they all come together. I actually quite liked this section, I was interested in the characters and the story and although there were no major surprises in this part, I felt there was enough drama to stay engaged.
The second half is based is modern times and this is where there is a slight let down for me. The characters were no longer believable, like a ham acted radio play. The narrative tried too hard to pin the suspicions on the other characters that ended up making it too easy to guess who the real perpetrator was. There was a little bit of shock value which I appreciated but the final scenes dragged on for a little too long.
It’s an easy and fairly short read so I think I would still recommend it if you’re short on time and want something that’s easy to digest.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the ARC.
August 1, 2024
Truth be told, I really wanted to like this book, but I just honestly wanted to stop reading it. The 1st part was placed in 1941, which basically tells what made ashcroft into the horrific serial killer. I think there was so much potential but just executed poorly. There was a ton, and I mean a ton of information that it just got overwhelming. It also switched character points of view after 2 sentences, which made it very hard to follow. I think also the point of it being about a serial killer who only targets women with red hair, and that's it was just weird. The 2nd part is placed in 2019 following the granddaughter. It felt very rushed and not a ton of detail of the killer in the 2nd half. All in all, I feel like the bones were there to make a great thriller.
Thank you severn house publishing and Hilary Norman and Netgalley for the ARC of this book!
Thank you severn house publishing and Hilary Norman and Netgalley for the ARC of this book!
January 23, 2025
Many thanks to Netgalley and Severn House for the oppotunity to read this.
London during the war and there's a killer on the loose and Harriet is now in his sights but can she survive him as well as the bombings all around her? Many years later and Libby is living in Harriet's house but strange things start to happen. Could the past be returning?
Well this was a creepy thrill ride. I must admit that I found the first part set during the war more gripping than the second. It wasn't until the final showdown that I was hooked to the second part. That being said it was still a really good read. Such a creepy and at times twisted story. There are some rather questionable family dynamics in this. The ending was really good though I expected the final result but I did like what happened to the house. The writing is detailed and really draws you in. A great read.
London during the war and there's a killer on the loose and Harriet is now in his sights but can she survive him as well as the bombings all around her? Many years later and Libby is living in Harriet's house but strange things start to happen. Could the past be returning?
Well this was a creepy thrill ride. I must admit that I found the first part set during the war more gripping than the second. It wasn't until the final showdown that I was hooked to the second part. That being said it was still a really good read. Such a creepy and at times twisted story. There are some rather questionable family dynamics in this. The ending was really good though I expected the final result but I did like what happened to the house. The writing is detailed and really draws you in. A great read.
September 10, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Severn House for an eARC copy of Prey by Hilary Norman.
I honestly was a bit disappointed, but I also wasn't coming in with high hopes. Multi-timeline books, no matter the genre are difficult for me to enjoy if they are not done well. While I enjoyed the premise of a murder during the Blitz of WWII and present day (2019), the way the information was presented felt like word vomit in the first half while the second was left barebones. The narrative switching also could have been a lot clearer. I feel like it certainly could use more editing and clarity.
I honestly was a bit disappointed, but I also wasn't coming in with high hopes. Multi-timeline books, no matter the genre are difficult for me to enjoy if they are not done well. While I enjoyed the premise of a murder during the Blitz of WWII and present day (2019), the way the information was presented felt like word vomit in the first half while the second was left barebones. The narrative switching also could have been a lot clearer. I feel like it certainly could use more editing and clarity.
October 3, 2024
I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting. Who doesn't love a 1940's serial killer!? The timelines are flawlessly intertwined, the character building is on point. Timing is everything, there is no such thing as a coincidence, and everyone is a suspect.
Prey is split between two gripping timelines, set in wartime 1941 and modern-day 2019, with haunting suspense. The blend of Harriet Yorke’s wartime bravery and Libby’s present-day struggles creates a rich, atmospheric tale of danger and legacy. Norman’s portrayal of London during the Blitz feels vivid and terrifying, while the gradual unraveling of hidden secrets at Calla House keeps the reader on edge. A beautifully written, chilling thriller that seamlessly blends historical and psychological tension. An absolute page-turner!
Thank you Hilary Norman, Severn House, and @netgalley for the advanced copy!
Prey is split between two gripping timelines, set in wartime 1941 and modern-day 2019, with haunting suspense. The blend of Harriet Yorke’s wartime bravery and Libby’s present-day struggles creates a rich, atmospheric tale of danger and legacy. Norman’s portrayal of London during the Blitz feels vivid and terrifying, while the gradual unraveling of hidden secrets at Calla House keeps the reader on edge. A beautifully written, chilling thriller that seamlessly blends historical and psychological tension. An absolute page-turner!
Thank you Hilary Norman, Severn House, and @netgalley for the advanced copy!
October 23, 2024
Oh my goodness this was dark and very creepy. I really shouldn't have read it late at night when I was alone in the house. Written during two time lines, a deranged murderer on the loose during the Blitz is obsessed with red haired women who look like his mother. Fast forward to 2019 in the same house and strange things start happening to Libby and her home. She suspects everyone but the outcome is more chilling than she could imagine. I enjoyed the inter generational friendships alongside the horrific story. Excellent. #netgalley #Prey
January 15, 2025
The central place of the story is Calla House in London, owned by the same family, first Harriett during the the Blitz of 1941, and then granddaughter Libby in 2019. In both cases, Cala houses the owner and various other people, all friends. In 1941, Harriett encounters a man who preys on women who remind him of his mother. You'll need to read the book to see what happens in 2019. It is very suspenseful so a page-turner, but I gave it only 3 stars because so much of the story seemed so improbable.
May 12, 2025
Am I glad I read this and didn`t see it as a film - not because it wouldn't be excellent viewing, but because I am useless at watching scary psychological thrillers and this would definitely have me hiding behind the cushions.
Norman´s writing grips the reader as she creates a vengeful and believable main perpetrator and storyline. And, just as the reader feels the solution is obvious, `The Prey` raises more doubts.
A gripping read.
Thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
Norman´s writing grips the reader as she creates a vengeful and believable main perpetrator and storyline. And, just as the reader feels the solution is obvious, `The Prey` raises more doubts.
A gripping read.
Thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 2, 2024
Dual time lines kept me invested in this thriller. Origin story begins in 1941 London. I was pulled into the suspense with Harriet, the prey. Key details on the serial killer's backstory intrigued me, turning the page late into the evening hours. I liked the flow of the story development into 2019. Good character development, intriguing plotline.
Thank you Severn House for the ARC and NetGalley for making it possible.
Thank you Severn House for the ARC and NetGalley for making it possible.
August 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 this book had a great pace and kept my interest very well. I thought I had figured it out roughly halfway through but ended up being mostly wrong (the only thing I figured out was a small detail of the whole thing.) I wish we had more insight into the serial killer tho, we are basically just given the excuse of mommy issues but there’s not a lot of build around the character. Overall though this was a quick and enjoyable read, thank you to NetGalley and Severn Publishing for the eARC.
November 1, 2024
In 1941, Harriet lives at Calla House in northwest London. She owns the building and inhabits the top floor, renting out the bottom floors to people who have become her friends. However, a killer is afoot, murdering women with red hair. Harriet's entanglement with Alfred, the killer, will reverberate many decades later. By 2019, Harriet's granddaughter, Libby, has made the top floor her home, but when repairs are undertaken at Calla, Libby has no idea of the danger she is in...
February 10, 2025
I was invested in the first half. Then there was a time jump, and I just didn't care about any of the characters. At only 213 pages and the time jump happening at the 50% mark, it didn't leave much room for the story during modern time to develop. I still enjoyed aspects of this one. A historical fiction serial killer story is something I had never thought about. I want to track down more of them now, though. I also called the twist fairly early on during the second half.
September 27, 2024
A book of two half's the first part set in 1941 a serial killer stalking London Harriet sees something she shouldn't have. The second half set in London 2019 Harriet's granddaughter inherits her nans house. Good plot with twists, good characters. Though the first half is better than the second overall a very good read. Thanks to Severn House and Netgalley for this review ARC.
June 12, 2025
The first half of the story was fine - 3 stars. The second half was a slog - 1 star. It moved soooooo slowly and was very predictable. I’m not great at figuring out who the bad guy is but this was so obvious. I’ve never been able to not finish a book. This one brought me awfully close to having a DNF list.
July 27, 2024
Unfortunately this book was not for me. It's set into two different timelines, the War and 2019.
At the start of the book during the War I was a bit interested, but soon found it too drawn out; the same with 2019. I ended up skipping through a lot, then rushed to the end. Sorry!
At the start of the book during the War I was a bit interested, but soon found it too drawn out; the same with 2019. I ended up skipping through a lot, then rushed to the end. Sorry!
September 10, 2024
I had high hopes for this one. There are good creepy characters and then there are the truly mad.
This bad guy was bad and the oddest thing I have seen.
Just didn't come together for me.
NetGalley/ Severn House October 01, 2024
This bad guy was bad and the oddest thing I have seen.
Just didn't come together for me.
NetGalley/ Severn House October 01, 2024
September 26, 2024
Despite the fact that this is the type of book I would normally enjoy I just couldn't get into this one. The motivation behind the characters didn't make sense and I couldn't wait to finish the book so I didn't have to read anymore
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