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The _____ Within
IS IT THE VOICE …?
Covered in blood, with no recollection of how or why, Jackson McCagan searches for a truth that will forever change his life. Forced to endure the traumatic memories of his past, he discovers more than he ever expected. Can he resist the inner struggle, or will he succumb to the darkness whispering from within?
THE EVIL …?
Promoted and transferred to one of the most dangerous cities in America, Detective Liam Carter is assigned to a case that will forever haunt him. With his new charismatic partner, Liam follows a bloody trail of graphic brutality unlike anything he has ever imagined. Will he be able to stop this evil before it kills again … and again … and again?
THE CONFLICT …?
Officer Keira Fox has a secret she fears. It has guided her to success, but will it ultimately destroy all her hard-earned efforts? When she needs it most, will she accept the warning signs or refuse in disbelief? Will she fall victim to the inner turmoil, or will she have the strength to overcome the trauma forced upon her?
Covered in blood, with no recollection of how or why, Jackson McCagan searches for a truth that will forever change his life. Forced to endure the traumatic memories of his past, he discovers more than he ever expected. Can he resist the inner struggle, or will he succumb to the darkness whispering from within?
THE EVIL …?
Promoted and transferred to one of the most dangerous cities in America, Detective Liam Carter is assigned to a case that will forever haunt him. With his new charismatic partner, Liam follows a bloody trail of graphic brutality unlike anything he has ever imagined. Will he be able to stop this evil before it kills again … and again … and again?
THE CONFLICT …?
Officer Keira Fox has a secret she fears. It has guided her to success, but will it ultimately destroy all her hard-earned efforts? When she needs it most, will she accept the warning signs or refuse in disbelief? Will she fall victim to the inner turmoil, or will she have the strength to overcome the trauma forced upon her?
339 pages, Paperback
Published July 13, 2024
36 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
March 6, 2025
wow. just wow.
I am still trying to wrap my head around all that transpired throughout this book but wow. Def a good read. Solid story. Whole lot of crazy. Highly recommend.
Edited 3/5/2025 to add my full review after I finally had time to sit down and compose it:
The _____ Within
- Nevada Bailey
Debut novel? I’m no publicist but I am still baffled by the claims that The _____ Within is Bailey’s debut novel, as he masterfully delivers a suspenseful and unsettling journey plummeting into trauma and violence.
Bailey introduces us to three characters, three different POV’s with three different narratives that intertwine into one compelling and thought-provoking thriller. We follow along as Jackson McCagan contends with amnesia and a bloody past, Detective Liam Carter as he hunts down a brutal killer, and Officer Keira Fox who has a secret that could feasibly cause her to self-destruct. The storylines constructed prove to create an outlook of impending doom full of suspense and uncertainty.
This story is not for the weak. Let me repeat, this story is NOT for the weak. Bailey deep dives into intense violence, societal decay and explicitly disturbing themes of mental conflict. I felt he captured the ruthlessness of the crimes and emotional strife of each of the characters to make them real, relevant. You see, Jackson struggles to piece together his memories leaving you feeling his pain and heartbreak. Liam is forced to face his own ethical bounds and decisions when he descends into the dark and dangerous parts of the city. While Kiera, she deals with her own inner conflict while trying to decide between allowing her desires to be fulfilled and her feasibly self-destructing secret which elicits enough tension to hold up a shower rod.
I was easily able to maintain a consistent emotional connection with each character throughout each of their stories due to Bailey building a sound, continuous story while weaving each character and their journey together to become one. He was able to keep a good balance when it came to suspense, pain, heartbreak, determination, violence, darkness and mental strife that the emotional impact of the story could be heard around the world.
If you enjoy a skillfully manipulated, dark psychological thriller that brings awareness to the dark side of human nature and mental health, while not shying away from violence and moral decisions then The _____ Within should be moved to the top of your TBR list!!!
As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
I am still trying to wrap my head around all that transpired throughout this book but wow. Def a good read. Solid story. Whole lot of crazy. Highly recommend.
Edited 3/5/2025 to add my full review after I finally had time to sit down and compose it:
The _____ Within
- Nevada Bailey
Debut novel? I’m no publicist but I am still baffled by the claims that The _____ Within is Bailey’s debut novel, as he masterfully delivers a suspenseful and unsettling journey plummeting into trauma and violence.
Bailey introduces us to three characters, three different POV’s with three different narratives that intertwine into one compelling and thought-provoking thriller. We follow along as Jackson McCagan contends with amnesia and a bloody past, Detective Liam Carter as he hunts down a brutal killer, and Officer Keira Fox who has a secret that could feasibly cause her to self-destruct. The storylines constructed prove to create an outlook of impending doom full of suspense and uncertainty.
This story is not for the weak. Let me repeat, this story is NOT for the weak. Bailey deep dives into intense violence, societal decay and explicitly disturbing themes of mental conflict. I felt he captured the ruthlessness of the crimes and emotional strife of each of the characters to make them real, relevant. You see, Jackson struggles to piece together his memories leaving you feeling his pain and heartbreak. Liam is forced to face his own ethical bounds and decisions when he descends into the dark and dangerous parts of the city. While Kiera, she deals with her own inner conflict while trying to decide between allowing her desires to be fulfilled and her feasibly self-destructing secret which elicits enough tension to hold up a shower rod.
I was easily able to maintain a consistent emotional connection with each character throughout each of their stories due to Bailey building a sound, continuous story while weaving each character and their journey together to become one. He was able to keep a good balance when it came to suspense, pain, heartbreak, determination, violence, darkness and mental strife that the emotional impact of the story could be heard around the world.
If you enjoy a skillfully manipulated, dark psychological thriller that brings awareness to the dark side of human nature and mental health, while not shying away from violence and moral decisions then The _____ Within should be moved to the top of your TBR list!!!
As always, all opinions and reviews are of my own volition. I have not been promised any compensation by the author, present or future, for my review.
September 24, 2024
Fast paced, page turner! Can’t wait for the next one!
October 16, 2024
This book had me on the edge of my seat with all of the twists and turns. I love that it didn’t shy away from showing the emotional aftermath of survivors of violent crime. Such as ptsd, flashbacks, uncontrollable fear, etc. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
October 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. It kept me engaged the whole time. The only thing I didn't really like was the authors over use of words in italics. At one point I found 20 or so on one page alone. It was a bit much.
August 15, 2024
page turner!!
Welcome new author Nevada Bailey! This book keeps you turning the pages. Twists and turns when you least expect it. Looking forward to reading future books by you!
Welcome new author Nevada Bailey! This book keeps you turning the pages. Twists and turns when you least expect it. Looking forward to reading future books by you!
September 15, 2024
You Pick the Blank!
This was a great first publication by Nevada Bailey! While there is a lot going on, and many characters, their stories intertwine in ways you won’t see until you do. It is fast paced, with no filler, which I enjoy! There are many ways your imagination can fill in the blank as you read this book, all of them probably appropriate. Look forward to the rest of their stories!
This was a great first publication by Nevada Bailey! While there is a lot going on, and many characters, their stories intertwine in ways you won’t see until you do. It is fast paced, with no filler, which I enjoy! There are many ways your imagination can fill in the blank as you read this book, all of them probably appropriate. Look forward to the rest of their stories!
September 19, 2024
Fantastic debut!
Right off the bat, I’ll say it’s hard to believe this is Nevada Bailey’s debut novel! If this is his first book, then he’s got a long career ahead of him!
“The _____Within” had a lot of characters and different stories going on, but Bailey wove them all together seamlessly and didn’t miss a beat!
Bailey’s descriptions make you feel like you’re there in the action - and let me tell you, there is a lot of action!
This book is a great police procedural with mature characters and lots of twists to keep you busy!
Highly recommend!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Right off the bat, I’ll say it’s hard to believe this is Nevada Bailey’s debut novel! If this is his first book, then he’s got a long career ahead of him!
“The _____Within” had a lot of characters and different stories going on, but Bailey wove them all together seamlessly and didn’t miss a beat!
Bailey’s descriptions make you feel like you’re there in the action - and let me tell you, there is a lot of action!
This book is a great police procedural with mature characters and lots of twists to keep you busy!
Highly recommend!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 2, 2024
This was my first time reading Nevada Bailey's work, wow buckle up and stay focused. Enjoyed all the characters and story line, brutal yeah, so is the world.
I am really looking forward for a follow-up on this book. Looking forward for what Carter and Knight will be doing next.
Best way I can describe his work is, take a little Chris Carter, Patrick Logan and Ethan Cross and watch out.
I am really looking forward for a follow-up on this book. Looking forward for what Carter and Knight will be doing next.
Best way I can describe his work is, take a little Chris Carter, Patrick Logan and Ethan Cross and watch out.
January 19, 2025
This Was a free ebook during 12 days of Christmas Thank you Nevada Bailey for the gift 🎁. Chefs kiss 😘 to this book. I hope this isn’t your only book 📕 Please tell me you are writing another book 📕 jerked awake. Soaked with sweat, I love this book. Chapter 32 / Epilogue Noooooo it can’t end. I can’t wait for the next book.
August 7, 2024
Wondering if there will be a sequel??
August 15, 2024
I’m not sure Mr. Bailey was telling the truth… I mean, this is your first book? Well, you hit a home run! Kudos on the great writing!
I was pulled in around chapter 3 and couldn’t wait to read more! I was invested completely trying to understand Jackson and glad I got his full story.
I loved how the different people In this book were all pulled together into one heck of a story.
Not much procedural stuff for the cops in this book. They seemed to do their own thing, but although I noticed it, I didn’t really miss it because the good guys were so good and the bad guys were SO bad!
A solid 4.5 stars (rounded to 5).
I was pulled in around chapter 3 and couldn’t wait to read more! I was invested completely trying to understand Jackson and glad I got his full story.
I loved how the different people In this book were all pulled together into one heck of a story.
Not much procedural stuff for the cops in this book. They seemed to do their own thing, but although I noticed it, I didn’t really miss it because the good guys were so good and the bad guys were SO bad!
A solid 4.5 stars (rounded to 5).
September 25, 2024
A Thrilling Masterpiece ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nevada Bailey’s “The ______ Within” is an absolute page-turner that will leave you breathless! From the very first chapter, I was hooked by the intricate plot and the depth of the characters.
Detective Liam Carter’s journey through one of America’s most dangerous cities is both harrowing and exhilarating. The twists and turns are masterfully crafted, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Bailey’s writing is nothing short of brilliant, blending suspense, emotion, and a touch of the macabre in a way that few authors can. The vivid descriptions and the palpable tension make you feel like you’re right there with Liam, unraveling the mystery.
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller. Don’t miss out on this electrifying ride!
Chef’s Kiss 😚🤌🏼
Nevada Bailey’s “The ______ Within” is an absolute page-turner that will leave you breathless! From the very first chapter, I was hooked by the intricate plot and the depth of the characters.
Detective Liam Carter’s journey through one of America’s most dangerous cities is both harrowing and exhilarating. The twists and turns are masterfully crafted, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Bailey’s writing is nothing short of brilliant, blending suspense, emotion, and a touch of the macabre in a way that few authors can. The vivid descriptions and the palpable tension make you feel like you’re right there with Liam, unraveling the mystery.
This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller. Don’t miss out on this electrifying ride!
Chef’s Kiss 😚🤌🏼
September 13, 2024
This book left me shook, I think I sat in silence for several minutes every time I was finished reading. The author definitely made you feel EVERY emotion. Total empathy for those who suffer mental illness to absolute disgust! Great read!
August 11, 2024
Great read
Loved it. Do you like twists and turns…surprises? Get this book. WELL DONE!! I’ll be getting future books by Nevada.
Loved it. Do you like twists and turns…surprises? Get this book. WELL DONE!! I’ll be getting future books by Nevada.
November 19, 2025
The very definition of a thriller. Every page is a wild ride that you won’t want to leave. Grab it now!
February 1, 2025
WOW!!! Fantastic first book for an author
Nevada’s writing is alluring and hard to put down. The characters are well-developed, but it took me a few to follow the story with so many characters. It was by no fault of the writing, but rather my ability to focus and remember who was who (it was a busy few days for me while trying to read). I was excited to finish the book and see the ending.
Overall, The ____ Within is so well written and has the perfect twists and turns, which made it hard to put down. If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers with an engaging plot and a “keep you on your toes” feel, I highly recommend this book!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nevada’s writing is alluring and hard to put down. The characters are well-developed, but it took me a few to follow the story with so many characters. It was by no fault of the writing, but rather my ability to focus and remember who was who (it was a busy few days for me while trying to read). I was excited to finish the book and see the ending.
Overall, The ____ Within is so well written and has the perfect twists and turns, which made it hard to put down. If you enjoy suspenseful thrillers with an engaging plot and a “keep you on your toes” feel, I highly recommend this book!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 6, 2024
This was one of those books I was sad to see end because it was that good. The experience of reading this novel was like watching a really good movie where every scene is exciting, whether it has action or not. I enjoyed getting to know each character, and worried about them throughout the story when they were in danger. With this book, each chapter unfolds new layers and you don’t only WANT to know what’s going to happen next…you NEED to know what’s going to happen next. Very much looking forward to Nevada Bailey’s next novel!
August 16, 2024
I really enjoyed all parts of this book. Excellent thriller. I found myself not being able to put it down. Highly recommend. I feel this book is underrated. I plan to suggest it to my book clubs. My favorite part of the book is chapter four. I can't figure out why but that chapter stood out to me the most. I really enjoyed the ending as well. Very well written and I can't wait to see more from this author.
September 25, 2024
The storyline drew me in from the start. This book certainly held my interest. Although I am convinced there is still a shady cop somewhere. ☺️
November 10, 2024
This book grabbed me right from the start and didn't let go. It had twists and turns and the suspense kept building until I was flying through the pages. I didn't want to put this book down!
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
September 21, 2024
This was a nice debut!!
There definitely needs to be a sequel… I still have questions and need more!
There definitely needs to be a sequel… I still have questions and need more!
November 5, 2024
This book caught my attention from the beginning. It was a bit gory in parts, but I truly enjoyed the storyline and the twists it has throughout the plot.
I did have a bit of a hard time following some parts and had to reread, but to be honest I can get distracted at times while reading. With that said, this was a great read and anyone who can either devote their full attention or doesn’t mind rereading a bit would truly enjoy this adventure.
I did have a bit of a hard time following some parts and had to reread, but to be honest I can get distracted at times while reading. With that said, this was a great read and anyone who can either devote their full attention or doesn’t mind rereading a bit would truly enjoy this adventure.
November 4, 2024
I loved this book and usually I'm not into detective stories. Read in less than 2 days and can't wait to see more work from this author
January 10, 2025
Non stop excitement! Bravo to the author’s first novel ! Will not disappoint. Can’t wait for the next one
October 30, 2024
This is a wild ride! It started off shocking and ended the same way.
September 9, 2024
This book had me from the very first page. It was a wild ride and so messed up (but in all the best ways!). Nevada has a gift for storytelling and his powerful, articulate, and expressive use of language kept me engrossed throughout the ride. I loved it and can’t wait for more.
November 18, 2025
“The ____ Within” by Nevada Bailey is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Nevada Bailey weaves an intense, suspense-filled narrative filled with jaw-dropping twists. The tension builds slowly, drawing you into a web of intrigue and mystery.
I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter left me more captivated than the last, pushing me to read just one more page—and before I knew it, I’d lost track of time and was sacrificing sleep to find out what happened next. Bailey’s writing is sharp, the pacing perfect, and the way he keeps you guessing until the very end is masterful. The characters are complex and have great development throughout the story.
This book is a true psychological rollercoaster, one that will leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the final page. If you enjoy stories that play with your mind and leave you questioning everything, The ____ Within is a must-read. Prepare for a wild ride!
I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter left me more captivated than the last, pushing me to read just one more page—and before I knew it, I’d lost track of time and was sacrificing sleep to find out what happened next. Bailey’s writing is sharp, the pacing perfect, and the way he keeps you guessing until the very end is masterful. The characters are complex and have great development throughout the story.
This book is a true psychological rollercoaster, one that will leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the final page. If you enjoy stories that play with your mind and leave you questioning everything, The ____ Within is a must-read. Prepare for a wild ride!
September 6, 2025
The _______ Within was such an intriguing and dark read with this almost eerie "seven degrees of Kevin Bacon" vibe that kept me hooked. Everyone’s lives were tangled in the most unexpected ways—twisted, complicated, and totally fascinating. I loved uncovering how all the pieces fit together. It kept me turning pages late into the night. Four stars, would definitely recommend if you’re into layered stories with a touch of darkness.
February 11, 2025
The ____ Within is a psychological thriller with so many twists and turns it will make you dizzy and keep you on the edge of your seat. The initial warning of potential triggers was a nice touch to the very start of the book. The premise of the book and the intensity of the writing sucked me in immediately. Nevada tells the story of a rough and tough city police department tracking down a serial killer and gang leader through alternating POVs between different characters in a parallel. I loved the character development and focus on the major main characters. However, at times there were random names/people thrown in that didn't make sense to me and it felt like there was just too much being thrown into the story. Nevada was able to vividly describe the events in the book, but a few of the graphic scenes didn't feel natural to the flow of the story. And, personally, some of the dialogue between characters felt a little disjointed. Overall, I enjoyed the writing and story, but the ending fell a little flat for me.
3.5⭐ rounded up
3.5⭐ rounded up
October 8, 2024
What a page-turner! Prepare to feel every emotion as the story unfolds. The characters are so well crafted they feel real. Each has their own backstory, which could easily run into additional novels.
Believe me when I say this book has it all. It's thought-provoking, at times tear-jerking, action-packed with just a sprinkle of the supernatural. This isn't the main part of the story, but a character trait that adds to it.
Suspense makes your heart beat faster as you eagerly fly through the chapters. Graphic detail makes you gasp and pause to catch your breath. Epic one-liners and I quote, "This bitch so close I can smell his dirty asshole wafting in the breeze," have you laughing out loud.
Nevada baileys The _ within is story telling at it's finest, and I can't wait for the next book!
Believe me when I say this book has it all. It's thought-provoking, at times tear-jerking, action-packed with just a sprinkle of the supernatural. This isn't the main part of the story, but a character trait that adds to it.
Suspense makes your heart beat faster as you eagerly fly through the chapters. Graphic detail makes you gasp and pause to catch your breath. Epic one-liners and I quote, "This bitch so close I can smell his dirty asshole wafting in the breeze," have you laughing out loud.
Nevada baileys The _ within is story telling at it's finest, and I can't wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews