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Flat 401: The gripping, unputdownable thriller debut you don't want to miss
All Jay wants is to start again, to set himself up in a small, quiet town where no one knows him. Because here, no one will let him forget what they think he did the day his neighbour died in Flat 401.
He just needs to keep doing what he's always treat people with kindness and respect, and try to stay out of trouble. >b>But when a threatening note makes its way into the hostel he's forced to call home - Everyone is going to know what you really did - his hope for a fresh start begins to crumble.
Jay fears that the secret he's fought so hard to hide, that he went to prison to protect, might finally come out. How far is he willing to go to keep his freedom alive? And with a shadowy figure from his past tracking Jay's every move, perhaps it's not just his freedom Jay should be worried about being taken from him, but his life...
Flat 401 is a tense, character-driven thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Paula Hawkins and Mark Billingham.
He just needs to keep doing what he's always treat people with kindness and respect, and try to stay out of trouble. >b>But when a threatening note makes its way into the hostel he's forced to call home - Everyone is going to know what you really did - his hope for a fresh start begins to crumble.
Jay fears that the secret he's fought so hard to hide, that he went to prison to protect, might finally come out. How far is he willing to go to keep his freedom alive? And with a shadowy figure from his past tracking Jay's every move, perhaps it's not just his freedom Jay should be worried about being taken from him, but his life...
Flat 401 is a tense, character-driven thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Paula Hawkins and Mark Billingham.
368 pages, Paperback
Published October 21, 2025
70 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Kingsley Pearson
2 books9 followersKingsley Pearson is a crime/thriller writer whose work has been shortlisted for several pre-publication prizes. He aims to tell compelling stories that move the reader, speak to them at a deeper level, and leave them with something to take away and talk about. He is a mixed-race British gay man who works as Clinical Psychologist, and lives in London, England.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 22, 2025
Flat 401 by Kingsley Pearson has been on my radar for a while and I was so excited to finally read it. Psychological thrillers, that always stand out to me, are those that feel fresh and new and this was definitely the case with Kingsley’s debut. Jay is a character who I really felt I got to know as I read this book. He is what made this book, for me, such a gripping and emotive read as well.
What is interesting about the set-up here is that Jay has just recently walked free from prison and is desperate to move on with his life. He went to prison after a man, Steffan, died in the flat next door to him. But the horrors of Jay’s past keep coming back to him, threatening to reveal his biggest secrets. But what secrets is Jay still holding onto, from the night his life changed forever, that someone else is desperate to expose? Jay is a very complex character who felt so real.
The supporting cast of characters were really well-rounded as well. One of the character’s we hear from is Amelia, who is Steffan’s sister. She’s desperate to find out what Jay is hiding and this is what helps to drive the tension alongside Jay’s chapters. And we also hear from Steffan, the man who was killed, in the run up to the night of his death. Kingsley Pearson does a great job of getting inside Steffan’s head and revealing his thoughts and feelings.
Although Jay has done something terrible in his past, and Kingsley Pearson does a brilliant job of revealing the truth in an intense finale, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him, particularly as he is trying his best to move on. This definitely comes from the guilt he feels and his own internal struggles that made him feel like a real character. But I was also intrigued to find out what he was hiding and why the full truth about Steffan’s death hadn’t come out.
If you enjoy character-driven thrillers which really pull you into their world and the emotions they’re feeling, I highly recommend Flat 401.
What is interesting about the set-up here is that Jay has just recently walked free from prison and is desperate to move on with his life. He went to prison after a man, Steffan, died in the flat next door to him. But the horrors of Jay’s past keep coming back to him, threatening to reveal his biggest secrets. But what secrets is Jay still holding onto, from the night his life changed forever, that someone else is desperate to expose? Jay is a very complex character who felt so real.
The supporting cast of characters were really well-rounded as well. One of the character’s we hear from is Amelia, who is Steffan’s sister. She’s desperate to find out what Jay is hiding and this is what helps to drive the tension alongside Jay’s chapters. And we also hear from Steffan, the man who was killed, in the run up to the night of his death. Kingsley Pearson does a great job of getting inside Steffan’s head and revealing his thoughts and feelings.
Although Jay has done something terrible in his past, and Kingsley Pearson does a brilliant job of revealing the truth in an intense finale, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for him, particularly as he is trying his best to move on. This definitely comes from the guilt he feels and his own internal struggles that made him feel like a real character. But I was also intrigued to find out what he was hiding and why the full truth about Steffan’s death hadn’t come out.
If you enjoy character-driven thrillers which really pull you into their world and the emotions they’re feeling, I highly recommend Flat 401.
June 10, 2025
ARC Review – Flat 401 by Kingsley Pearson
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5 stars)
A moody, slow-burn thriller about a man trying to outrun his past. I liked the suspense and atmosphere, but the shifting perspectives and layout made it hard to follow at times. Still, a solid read for fans of layered, psychological thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5 stars)
A moody, slow-burn thriller about a man trying to outrun his past. I liked the suspense and atmosphere, but the shifting perspectives and layout made it hard to follow at times. Still, a solid read for fans of layered, psychological thrillers.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 10, 2025
Flat 401 is a propulsive story that touches on themes of race, sexuality, grief, forgiveness and internalised homophobia in Twentieth Century Britain. The disparate group of characters move towards a shocking conclusion and it's impossible to look away. Pearson writes with incisive clarity and deep psychological insight in this compelling story with dark sexual undertones that had me gasping.
July 12, 2025
What a brilliant debut novel!! This one had such beautifully written complex characters, I loved the ending! It kept me hooked and I was so tense throughout about finding out the truth. I would absolutely recommend this book if you’re looking for a page turner thriller with characters that have real depth!
July 4, 2025
Flat 401 by Kingsley Pearson offers a compelling premise rooted in ambiguity and shifting truths. What begins as a seemingly straightforward crime story quickly unravels into a layered narrative that questions guilt, perception, and what really happened on the day of the crime. As the story toggles between timelines and perspectives, the reader is pulled into a psychological puzzle where the supposed “killer” may not be guilty after all.
Pearson’s approach to storytelling—using nonlinear structure and gradual revelation—builds intrigue and invites the reader to constantly reassess what they believe to be true. The concept is strong, with the central mystery holding plenty of potential and a few well-executed twists that elevate the tension.
However, while the premise is engaging, the execution occasionally falls short. Some moments feel underdeveloped, and the emotional impact doesn’t always land as powerfully as it could. Still, the novel succeeds in maintaining suspense and keeping readers invested in the outcome.
Flat 401 is a solid psychological crime read with an interesting twist on the genre’s conventions. Though it may not fully deliver on its ambitious setup, it’s a worthwhile read for fans of unreliable narrators, layered timelines, and slow-burning mysteries.
Pearson’s approach to storytelling—using nonlinear structure and gradual revelation—builds intrigue and invites the reader to constantly reassess what they believe to be true. The concept is strong, with the central mystery holding plenty of potential and a few well-executed twists that elevate the tension.
However, while the premise is engaging, the execution occasionally falls short. Some moments feel underdeveloped, and the emotional impact doesn’t always land as powerfully as it could. Still, the novel succeeds in maintaining suspense and keeping readers invested in the outcome.
Flat 401 is a solid psychological crime read with an interesting twist on the genre’s conventions. Though it may not fully deliver on its ambitious setup, it’s a worthwhile read for fans of unreliable narrators, layered timelines, and slow-burning mysteries.
July 5, 2025
In Flat 401, Kingsley Pearson delivers a taut, emotionally charged thriller that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. With a blend of small-town unease, unresolved trauma, and a protagonist desperate to escape his past, this novel weaves suspense and humanity into a compelling narrative.
At the heart of the story is Jay, a man trying to rebuild his life in obscurity after a prison sentence tied to a tragedy no one will let him forget—the mysterious death of a neighbour in Flat 401. Pearson handles Jay’s internal struggle with real sensitivity, painting him not just as a man with secrets, but as someone painfully aware of how brittle second chances can be.
The quiet tension in Jay’s new life is immediately broken by a chilling note: Everyone is going to know what you really did. What follows is a slow-burn unraveling of both the mystery and Jay’s sanity. Pearson masterfully builds paranoia through tight prose and carefully revealed flashbacks, all while keeping the reader unsure of exactly what Jay is hiding—or who might be after him.
The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, especially the inhabitants of the grim hostel that Jay now calls home. There’s an ever-present feeling that anyone might know more than they’re letting on, and Pearson uses this atmosphere of suspicion to full effect.
Where Flat 401 truly excels is in its exploration of guilt, identity, and redemption. While the thriller elements are strong, what stays with you are the quieter, more human moments—Jay’s kindness in the face of judgment, his desperate need for peace, and the haunting question: can we ever truly escape our past?
A minor critique might be that some twists feel slightly telegraphed, and the final reveal, while satisfying, isn’t entirely unpredictable. Still, the emotional weight behind the climax more than makes up for it.
Verdict:
Flat 401 is a gripping and atmospheric read that balances suspense with heart. It’s not just a story about what happened behind a closed door—it’s about what happens when your past walks back through it. Fans of Gillian Flynn, Tana French, or Paula Hawkins will find a lot to love here.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark, character-driven thrillers with a conscience.
At the heart of the story is Jay, a man trying to rebuild his life in obscurity after a prison sentence tied to a tragedy no one will let him forget—the mysterious death of a neighbour in Flat 401. Pearson handles Jay’s internal struggle with real sensitivity, painting him not just as a man with secrets, but as someone painfully aware of how brittle second chances can be.
The quiet tension in Jay’s new life is immediately broken by a chilling note: Everyone is going to know what you really did. What follows is a slow-burn unraveling of both the mystery and Jay’s sanity. Pearson masterfully builds paranoia through tight prose and carefully revealed flashbacks, all while keeping the reader unsure of exactly what Jay is hiding—or who might be after him.
The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, especially the inhabitants of the grim hostel that Jay now calls home. There’s an ever-present feeling that anyone might know more than they’re letting on, and Pearson uses this atmosphere of suspicion to full effect.
Where Flat 401 truly excels is in its exploration of guilt, identity, and redemption. While the thriller elements are strong, what stays with you are the quieter, more human moments—Jay’s kindness in the face of judgment, his desperate need for peace, and the haunting question: can we ever truly escape our past?
A minor critique might be that some twists feel slightly telegraphed, and the final reveal, while satisfying, isn’t entirely unpredictable. Still, the emotional weight behind the climax more than makes up for it.
Verdict:
Flat 401 is a gripping and atmospheric read that balances suspense with heart. It’s not just a story about what happened behind a closed door—it’s about what happens when your past walks back through it. Fans of Gillian Flynn, Tana French, or Paula Hawkins will find a lot to love here.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark, character-driven thrillers with a conscience.
August 13, 2025
Flat 401 by Kingsley Pearson
This book will have people who love it, hate it, or that it doesn’t work for at all. I believe that I am in the last category.
The prologue grabbed me, and made me want to find out why someone died and who the killer was but by page fifty I realized that I would have to do what I usually do…read the end to see if it was a book I wanted to read word for word. The ending didn’t make a lot of sense to me, so I read some more from page fifty on skimming and read in more depth some places than others to eventually realize…this book was not for me.
I picked up that Jay has a secret he will do just about anything to keep from being exposed, he is conflicted, he wants a future with promise (though I am not sure he knows what that might be), he lives in a place that is like a small community with everyone knowing everyone else’s business, and that it is not a place I or (probably) Jay found comfortable.
There are dark undercurrents, creepy characters lurking about that cause mental turmoil, other characters who want justice or revenge or perhaps…just the truth, and a few supportive friend-type characters…maybe. The conclusion is also dark with a bit of an unfinished feeling about it that did not make me want to go back and read word for word to get to know any of the characters better.
Did I like this book? Not really
Would I read more by this author? Maybe, if the synopsis appealed to me
Do I think others will like it? Yes, some will not be able to put it down
Would it help to have a better feel for the community/setting of the book? Perhaps
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2-3 stars for me
3-5 stars for others
3-4 stars on average
This book will have people who love it, hate it, or that it doesn’t work for at all. I believe that I am in the last category.
The prologue grabbed me, and made me want to find out why someone died and who the killer was but by page fifty I realized that I would have to do what I usually do…read the end to see if it was a book I wanted to read word for word. The ending didn’t make a lot of sense to me, so I read some more from page fifty on skimming and read in more depth some places than others to eventually realize…this book was not for me.
I picked up that Jay has a secret he will do just about anything to keep from being exposed, he is conflicted, he wants a future with promise (though I am not sure he knows what that might be), he lives in a place that is like a small community with everyone knowing everyone else’s business, and that it is not a place I or (probably) Jay found comfortable.
There are dark undercurrents, creepy characters lurking about that cause mental turmoil, other characters who want justice or revenge or perhaps…just the truth, and a few supportive friend-type characters…maybe. The conclusion is also dark with a bit of an unfinished feeling about it that did not make me want to go back and read word for word to get to know any of the characters better.
Did I like this book? Not really
Would I read more by this author? Maybe, if the synopsis appealed to me
Do I think others will like it? Yes, some will not be able to put it down
Would it help to have a better feel for the community/setting of the book? Perhaps
Thank you to NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group for the ARC – This is my honest review.
2-3 stars for me
3-5 stars for others
3-4 stars on average
July 5, 2025
Jay is an ex-con who desperately wants to rebuild his life. Starting over in a small town where no one knows him, he is forced to call a hostel his home. Despite keeping to himself and laying low, a threatening note arrives one day stating " Everyone is going to know what you really did". Now that it seems like Jay's dark secret is about to be exposed, how far will Jay go to make sure his freedom stays intact?
This novel is much more than just an everyday thriller. Pearson absolutely nails the mental pitfalls that Jay is facing, his guilt, shame, and paranoia. As we progress through the story we get to unpack exactly how the trauma that Jay faced still affects him. Emotional and character driven, Flat 401 doesn't rely on jump scares to spook the reader, but rather masterfully uses emotional suspense and inner turmoil. With a twisty and creepy atmosphere the setting feels alive, almost claustrophobic at some points. One take away that I got from this is the question of can you ever really start again, or are you forever tied to your worst moment? Overall, Flat 401 doesn't jump out at you but rather instills a creeping sense of dread that continues to gnaw at you. And the fact that this is a debut just makes it that much better!! Definitely recommend for fans of psychological suspense novels that are character driven and atmospheric!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kingsley Pearson, and Orion for this ARC! Publication date was July 3rd 2025.
This novel is much more than just an everyday thriller. Pearson absolutely nails the mental pitfalls that Jay is facing, his guilt, shame, and paranoia. As we progress through the story we get to unpack exactly how the trauma that Jay faced still affects him. Emotional and character driven, Flat 401 doesn't rely on jump scares to spook the reader, but rather masterfully uses emotional suspense and inner turmoil. With a twisty and creepy atmosphere the setting feels alive, almost claustrophobic at some points. One take away that I got from this is the question of can you ever really start again, or are you forever tied to your worst moment? Overall, Flat 401 doesn't jump out at you but rather instills a creeping sense of dread that continues to gnaw at you. And the fact that this is a debut just makes it that much better!! Definitely recommend for fans of psychological suspense novels that are character driven and atmospheric!
Thank you to NetGalley, Kingsley Pearson, and Orion for this ARC! Publication date was July 3rd 2025.
September 16, 2025
After Jay leaves prison he’s determined to rebuild his life after what happened in Flat 401. But escaping the past is never simple. When a threatening note appears at his door, it’s clear someone knows what he’s done and they’re going to make him pay.
I really enjoyed this book! Flat 401 is a smart and emotionally layered psychological thriller that really makes you think. Told through multiple points of view and moving between “then” and “now”, the structure gradually reveals past events and their impact on the present. It’s the kind of story that slowly pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages.
The story explores themes of guilt, shame, internalised homophobia, the consequences of past actions and the struggle to move on with your life. It really made me think about whether people can ever truly be forgiven, or if it’s possible to start again with a clean slate. These questions are explored with a lot of subtlety and empathy, and it’s something I’m still thinking about now.
The portrayal of each individual character is a real strength of the book. Each voice feels distinct and believable, and I appreciated how flawed and human they all are. Jay in particular is such a complex character, trying to rebuild his life under the weight of judgment of strangers and his family.
This is a really thought-provoking debut. If you enjoy psychological thrillers that go beyond the surface to explore deeper emotional territory, Flat 401 is well worth reading!
I really enjoyed this book! Flat 401 is a smart and emotionally layered psychological thriller that really makes you think. Told through multiple points of view and moving between “then” and “now”, the structure gradually reveals past events and their impact on the present. It’s the kind of story that slowly pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages.
The story explores themes of guilt, shame, internalised homophobia, the consequences of past actions and the struggle to move on with your life. It really made me think about whether people can ever truly be forgiven, or if it’s possible to start again with a clean slate. These questions are explored with a lot of subtlety and empathy, and it’s something I’m still thinking about now.
The portrayal of each individual character is a real strength of the book. Each voice feels distinct and believable, and I appreciated how flawed and human they all are. Jay in particular is such a complex character, trying to rebuild his life under the weight of judgment of strangers and his family.
This is a really thought-provoking debut. If you enjoy psychological thrillers that go beyond the surface to explore deeper emotional territory, Flat 401 is well worth reading!
July 16, 2025
Thank you to Orion Publishing, Kingsley Pearson and NetGalley for the advance copy to read and review.
Reading the blurb, I definitely had different expectations from what was actually in the book. I didn't mind the vibe this book was trying to convey but unfortunately, I still couldn't enjoy this read.
One of my biggest issues was with writing style. The way the scenes were presented and described felt more like a "movie" than an actual book. It lacked that touch that makes a book a "book", if that makes any sense. The dialogue was also not my favorite either. It didn't flow as fluidly as it should have and there were several instances when it felt forced and almost "cringey".
The way the author chose for the story to flow was also quite confusing. The back and forth between timelines wasn't well executed and it made keeping up with the story much harder.
When it came to the multitude of POVs, I was definitely not a fan. In the blurb, we were promised to follow Jay's story and his alone, but suddenly, in the middle of the book, we find ourselves having to keep up with other stories too.
The slow pace of the book wasn't helping either as it gave the feeling that the book dragged on for so long without much actually happening. The twist at the end, unfortunately, also fell flat for me, as it didn't feel like a revelation big enough to actually consider it a "twist".
Thank you once again to Orion Publishing, Kingsley Pearson and NetGalley for the ARC.
Reading the blurb, I definitely had different expectations from what was actually in the book. I didn't mind the vibe this book was trying to convey but unfortunately, I still couldn't enjoy this read.
One of my biggest issues was with writing style. The way the scenes were presented and described felt more like a "movie" than an actual book. It lacked that touch that makes a book a "book", if that makes any sense. The dialogue was also not my favorite either. It didn't flow as fluidly as it should have and there were several instances when it felt forced and almost "cringey".
The way the author chose for the story to flow was also quite confusing. The back and forth between timelines wasn't well executed and it made keeping up with the story much harder.
When it came to the multitude of POVs, I was definitely not a fan. In the blurb, we were promised to follow Jay's story and his alone, but suddenly, in the middle of the book, we find ourselves having to keep up with other stories too.
The slow pace of the book wasn't helping either as it gave the feeling that the book dragged on for so long without much actually happening. The twist at the end, unfortunately, also fell flat for me, as it didn't feel like a revelation big enough to actually consider it a "twist".
Thank you once again to Orion Publishing, Kingsley Pearson and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 20, 2025
Wow, 2025 is delivering some seriously strong debuts!
What I loved most about this thriller is how grounded it felt in the everyday. I remember reading about the Timpson Foundation being one of the UK’s largest employers of ex-offenders. And that’s exactly where we begin, with Sri Lankan Jay, newly released on parole and trying to rebuild his life.
Jay is weighed down by guilt, both over what happened that night his neighbour died and over his sexuality. He’s desperately trying to establish a new routine. But when an anonymous note appears, warning that someone knows what he really did, his fragile new normal begins to unravel.
There’s quite a large cast to get your head around and while I did spot one twist early on, the final third of Flat 401 is excellent. The resolution was great and I found myself caring deeply for the central characters. This is more than a story about a crime. It’s about identity, standing up for yourself and trying to move forward when the past won’t let go.
Also: any book that manages to work in a Final Fantasy VII reference is a winner in my eyes!
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the ARC.
What I loved most about this thriller is how grounded it felt in the everyday. I remember reading about the Timpson Foundation being one of the UK’s largest employers of ex-offenders. And that’s exactly where we begin, with Sri Lankan Jay, newly released on parole and trying to rebuild his life.
Jay is weighed down by guilt, both over what happened that night his neighbour died and over his sexuality. He’s desperately trying to establish a new routine. But when an anonymous note appears, warning that someone knows what he really did, his fragile new normal begins to unravel.
There’s quite a large cast to get your head around and while I did spot one twist early on, the final third of Flat 401 is excellent. The resolution was great and I found myself caring deeply for the central characters. This is more than a story about a crime. It’s about identity, standing up for yourself and trying to move forward when the past won’t let go.
Also: any book that manages to work in a Final Fantasy VII reference is a winner in my eyes!
Thanks to Orion and NetGalley for the ARC.
June 15, 2025
Flat 401 is a gorgeously written debut that really hits on such an essential perspective that I love to see more of in this genre. Stunningly captured, this book explores themes of race, sexuality, and absolution from the POVs of different characters, each so undeniably human with their hopes, backgrounds, regrets and faults. The author rendered each character with such authenticity and honesty, that I couldn't help but feel empathy and hope for every character, no matter how flawed. I thought I knew Woolwich, where this book was set, well and yet I found myself completely drawn into what felt like a vivid new setting, that is carved with as much care and thought as each of the characters. The setting lends the narrative a gritty, moody atmosphere that adds depth to the themes. Each store, street and market is brought to life with a keen eye for detail and a palpable sense of place. It's the kind of layered depth that invites you to lean in, trust the author and enjoy the ride. This would be perfect for fans of Abigail Dean.
I can't wait to see what he comes up with next.
I can't wait to see what he comes up with next.
July 23, 2025
The author very kindly arranged for me to be sent a copy of this book. I loved the accompanying contract that came with the book (swipe to see)
This was an original, dark character driven psychological thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I found Jay such an intriguing character and enjoyed slowly finding out what had happened on the pertinent night in Flat 401. The book really allows you to see inside Jay's head and experience his guilt and longing for a better life.
At the same time we get drawn in to the lives of some other key characters. The book is written from several different points of view and goes back and forth from present day to just before the murder in Flat 401.
It was interesting to read about the aftermath of a crime from both the alleged perpetrator and the victim/sister.
I loved how the central characters came together at the end of the story and I raced through the final part of the book.
I would recommend this for fans of slow burn chatacter led thrillers. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
This was an original, dark character driven psychological thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I found Jay such an intriguing character and enjoyed slowly finding out what had happened on the pertinent night in Flat 401. The book really allows you to see inside Jay's head and experience his guilt and longing for a better life.
At the same time we get drawn in to the lives of some other key characters. The book is written from several different points of view and goes back and forth from present day to just before the murder in Flat 401.
It was interesting to read about the aftermath of a crime from both the alleged perpetrator and the victim/sister.
I loved how the central characters came together at the end of the story and I raced through the final part of the book.
I would recommend this for fans of slow burn chatacter led thrillers. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 17, 2025
So glad I was able to pick this up! Flat 401 is a beautifully crafted debut that offers a vital and refreshing perspective rarely explored in this genre. With beautiful prose and emotional candor, the novel delves into themes of race, sexuality, and redemption through the intertwining voices of its characters—each vividly real in their dreams, flaws, and regrets. Pearson writes with such integrity and emotional precision that every character, no matter how imperfect, feels deeply relatable and worthy of compassion.
I was completely immersed in the portrayal of the Woolwich in Flat 401 —a setting painted with as much care and nuance as the characters who inhabit it. The neighbourhood’s streets, shops, and markets pulse with atmosphere, grounding the story in a gritty yet tender realism that mirrors its emotional heart. It’s both a twisty thriller and a quietly layered work that earns your trust and keeps you close throughout. Can't wait to see what this author has in store next!
I was completely immersed in the portrayal of the Woolwich in Flat 401 —a setting painted with as much care and nuance as the characters who inhabit it. The neighbourhood’s streets, shops, and markets pulse with atmosphere, grounding the story in a gritty yet tender realism that mirrors its emotional heart. It’s both a twisty thriller and a quietly layered work that earns your trust and keeps you close throughout. Can't wait to see what this author has in store next!
August 18, 2025
I like to read all sorts of books from many types of genres, and I often challenge myself to read books that I know very little about and I consider this one to be a very lucky find.
It is set in a world that I know very little about and I was both shocked and informed about how the remand and parole systems work in the UK, and how people try to get their lives back on track while they go through them.
Within this world I found a great book. The author led us through its many mysteries to a great conclusion and it was gripping. Its best scenes truly captivating and loved the well-rounded leading characters.
It is a great debut novel, and I look forward to what comes next from this author.
It is set in a world that I know very little about and I was both shocked and informed about how the remand and parole systems work in the UK, and how people try to get their lives back on track while they go through them.
Within this world I found a great book. The author led us through its many mysteries to a great conclusion and it was gripping. Its best scenes truly captivating and loved the well-rounded leading characters.
It is a great debut novel, and I look forward to what comes next from this author.
August 27, 2025
This was an excellent slow-burn psychological thriller, dripping with social commentary on issues such as internet vigilantism, the struggles (real or perceived) of living a normal life after being in prison, issues around "coming out", family dynamics and racial injustice, as well as internalised trauma and not being able to let go of the past.
This wasn't a book where you have obvious "good guys" and "bad guys", but rather a whole host of flawed characters just trying their best to get from one day to the next - which made them relatable, almost real.
How all the characters were intertwined around the central plot was really clever, although the novel's main let down for me was that the end reveal didn't pack the punch, or turn everything I had been led to believe upside down, like I thought it might.
Nonetheless, a fantastic debut and well worth reading.
This wasn't a book where you have obvious "good guys" and "bad guys", but rather a whole host of flawed characters just trying their best to get from one day to the next - which made them relatable, almost real.
How all the characters were intertwined around the central plot was really clever, although the novel's main let down for me was that the end reveal didn't pack the punch, or turn everything I had been led to believe upside down, like I thought it might.
Nonetheless, a fantastic debut and well worth reading.
July 23, 2025
This is a truly exceptional and thrilling ride into the hyper-gritty world of Woolwich, with all its diversity and social stresses on display. The plot is mysterious and builds tension and intrigue throughout. Pearson is, in particular, incredibly clever in weaving together so many strands from a diverse world: gay life; psychology; complexities of race and heritage; Woolwich; theology (compelling themes of guilt, remorse and redemption). This is a blistering first novel. More to follow, please!
May 21, 2025
This is an accomplished character-driven debut, which drew me in from the first chapter. Many thrillers deal with the lead up to a tragedy - but Pearson flips that on its head, skilfully exploring the lasting impact of crime on not just the victim and their family, but the perpetrators. Dark and twisting - this novel sensitively tackles big themes. Flat 401's characters and thrilling conclusion will stay with me for a long time to come.
September 13, 2025
Flat 401 is dark and unsettling and deals with some important themes. The author’s vision for this book shines through and its execution is strong due to the depth of his character development. The plot is unique and I found this really impressive in a very competitive genre.
July 25, 2025
A new approach to a psychological thriller that delves deep. Jay’s journey is a complex one!
July 28, 2025
Enjoyed the twists and turns of this thriller! Great cast of characters, set in a beautifully captured corner of inner city London
August 12, 2025
Hooked in straight away.. couldn’t put it down!
Would recommend as a very good read.
Would recommend as a very good read.
September 13, 2025
Fantastic!!!! I was hooked!
January 12, 2026
this is a good thriller, it's gripping you until the final pages , and the multiple POVs help you get a clear understanding of each individual characters
January 15, 2026
I struggled to get into it, definitely a tough one to finish but I have!
September 5, 2025
CW: death, murder, violence, racism, homophobia, abusive relationship, manipulation, gaslighting, domestic abuse
Flat 401 is an incredibly thought-provoking thriller – written with such confidence and complex characterisation. It is arresting.
This is a book that is obsessed with the ideas of vengeance and justice. It asks difficult questions about what retribution is against revenge and where the justice system comes into play, as well as interrogating its failings. This is particularly concerned around survivors of crime and the bystander effect, asking at what point someone becomes culpable for harm inflicted upon others. We delve into offenders reentering society as well and the challenges of this. Ultimately, the system feels irreparably broken but with some good people working within it. It is desolate but there are sparks of hope and a chance to claim your life once again. Pearson eloquently explores the ongoing effects of trauma, how it shapes your worldview and the way you simply exist walking through it. I particularly enjoyed the throughline about guilt and how deeply that can affect a person. Overall, this book sits in its murky morality, puzzling over these topics in a way that really stays with you.
Reflecting that nuance is Jay, the core of this story. He is wracked with guilt and haunted by the choices he has made but also trying to rebuild his life. There are a lot of layers to Jay which he shares slowly through the two timelines the narrative follows. Immediately, there is a sense of pathos in the tragic end you know the past will eventually have, but you still root for it to end differently this time. He is caught up in this turbulent web and some of his actions will be polarising for readers. I really enjoyed spending time with him and his voice was so compelling. Around him are an equally fascinating cast of three-dimensional characters that Pearson infuses with heart and humour in some cases and the monstrous darkness humanity can have in others.
Flat 401 is a compulsively readable examination of grief, guilt and vengeance – particularly within a broken justice system. It is such a strong debut.
Flat 401 is an incredibly thought-provoking thriller – written with such confidence and complex characterisation. It is arresting.
This is a book that is obsessed with the ideas of vengeance and justice. It asks difficult questions about what retribution is against revenge and where the justice system comes into play, as well as interrogating its failings. This is particularly concerned around survivors of crime and the bystander effect, asking at what point someone becomes culpable for harm inflicted upon others. We delve into offenders reentering society as well and the challenges of this. Ultimately, the system feels irreparably broken but with some good people working within it. It is desolate but there are sparks of hope and a chance to claim your life once again. Pearson eloquently explores the ongoing effects of trauma, how it shapes your worldview and the way you simply exist walking through it. I particularly enjoyed the throughline about guilt and how deeply that can affect a person. Overall, this book sits in its murky morality, puzzling over these topics in a way that really stays with you.
Reflecting that nuance is Jay, the core of this story. He is wracked with guilt and haunted by the choices he has made but also trying to rebuild his life. There are a lot of layers to Jay which he shares slowly through the two timelines the narrative follows. Immediately, there is a sense of pathos in the tragic end you know the past will eventually have, but you still root for it to end differently this time. He is caught up in this turbulent web and some of his actions will be polarising for readers. I really enjoyed spending time with him and his voice was so compelling. Around him are an equally fascinating cast of three-dimensional characters that Pearson infuses with heart and humour in some cases and the monstrous darkness humanity can have in others.
Flat 401 is a compulsively readable examination of grief, guilt and vengeance – particularly within a broken justice system. It is such a strong debut.
September 2, 2025
Very much grounded in the diversity of contemporary London, as well as the challenges of a modern, always online world, it will keep you turning the pages all the way to the end!
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