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Stranger in the Mind
Stranger in the Mind is a supernatural thriller blending history, mystery, and the unexplainable.
Mystery and murder swirl around a dangerous doctor.
One detective vows to unravel the truth. 1920s Liverpool—a city shrouded in fog and secrets. Detective Amelia Dei uncovers a string of unexplained comas in Liverpool’s most notorious infirmary. As she digs deeper, she faces a sinister psychiatrist and a truth darker than anything she’s imagined...
Mystery and murder swirl around a dangerous doctor.
One detective vows to unravel the truth. 1920s Liverpool—a city shrouded in fog and secrets. Detective Amelia Dei uncovers a string of unexplained comas in Liverpool’s most notorious infirmary. As she digs deeper, she faces a sinister psychiatrist and a truth darker than anything she’s imagined...
Audible Audio
Published March 17, 2025
16 people want to read
About the author
James R. Berrywood
1 book2 followersJames Berrywood and Steven Aspen are authors who write Supernatural, Thriller and Fantasy stories.
Their debut novel Stranger In The Mind is the first of a trilogy, of a total of seven books that the duo have planned. It is a supernatural thriller that features 'historical crime' and 'psychological vibes'.
Their debut novel Stranger In The Mind is the first of a trilogy, of a total of seven books that the duo have planned. It is a supernatural thriller that features 'historical crime' and 'psychological vibes'.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 12, 2025
First saw this in the Library section of the SFF Insiders Discord and really liked the cover. A huge thanks to James for the audible code! Liz May Brice did a great job with the narration.
1920s Liverpool delivers a setting both familiar and different. Det. Amelia Dei must fight through gender roles, misogyny, and the supernatural in this murder mystery that feels both historical and fantastical. In a way it reminded me of Shadowseer: London by Morgan Rice in that it feels like a classic mystery meshed with an almost urban fantasy twist. Or Out on a Limb by Luis Paredes with its hints at a supernatural world beyond kind of a la Men in Black (although not alien).
Amelia will stop at nothing to upend Dr. Knight and his string of mysterious coma patient deaths. Her superiors don’t believe in her, and are finding it hard to believe her when she says something suspect is going on, but she refuses to relent. Her partner, Det. Reed, is the only one to have her back as the mystery unfolds into swirling darkness.
This is written well and feels cohesive. I found myself wondering where the two authors blended, becoming this unique voice. The two POVs (Amelia and Dr. Knight) worked well for me as I enjoy a glimpse into the dark and madness. The only hang up I had were the flashback memory scenes with young Knight. I understood their need, as it shows his coming into his power and experiencing his dark reality—the Umbra Mentis, but they also felt like attempting to humanize. As the story opens with him committing SA and reveling in it, I didn’t find him redeemable.
This tackles themes of sexism, gender roles, mental illness, poverty, and sexual orientation rather well. Even in a reality that turns out to have an entirely exterior nightmarish world just beyond it, these things are still present and touched on throughout. The Umbra was creepy, intriguing in what the authors held back, and I wished to know more. The inspector finally backing Amelia, as well as hinting at his awareness of the supernatural, makes me feel like there could be an expansive series even beyond the Umbra!
I really liked the last names of Dei and Knight facing off against each other. I have to imagine it was purposeful, as they even chose spellings that were not so on the nose. As the Umbra is this kind of swirling mass of black and darkness, it really felt like Amelia was the day facing off against the night.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-strang...
1920s Liverpool delivers a setting both familiar and different. Det. Amelia Dei must fight through gender roles, misogyny, and the supernatural in this murder mystery that feels both historical and fantastical. In a way it reminded me of Shadowseer: London by Morgan Rice in that it feels like a classic mystery meshed with an almost urban fantasy twist. Or Out on a Limb by Luis Paredes with its hints at a supernatural world beyond kind of a la Men in Black (although not alien).
Amelia will stop at nothing to upend Dr. Knight and his string of mysterious coma patient deaths. Her superiors don’t believe in her, and are finding it hard to believe her when she says something suspect is going on, but she refuses to relent. Her partner, Det. Reed, is the only one to have her back as the mystery unfolds into swirling darkness.
This is written well and feels cohesive. I found myself wondering where the two authors blended, becoming this unique voice. The two POVs (Amelia and Dr. Knight) worked well for me as I enjoy a glimpse into the dark and madness. The only hang up I had were the flashback memory scenes with young Knight. I understood their need, as it shows his coming into his power and experiencing his dark reality—the Umbra Mentis, but they also felt like attempting to humanize. As the story opens with him committing SA and reveling in it, I didn’t find him redeemable.
This tackles themes of sexism, gender roles, mental illness, poverty, and sexual orientation rather well. Even in a reality that turns out to have an entirely exterior nightmarish world just beyond it, these things are still present and touched on throughout. The Umbra was creepy, intriguing in what the authors held back, and I wished to know more. The inspector finally backing Amelia, as well as hinting at his awareness of the supernatural, makes me feel like there could be an expansive series even beyond the Umbra!
I really liked the last names of Dei and Knight facing off against each other. I have to imagine it was purposeful, as they even chose spellings that were not so on the nose. As the Umbra is this kind of swirling mass of black and darkness, it really felt like Amelia was the day facing off against the night.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-strang...
December 2, 2024
Stranger in the Mind by J. R. Berrywood and S. L. Aspen
This book is absolutely beautiful, full of haunting illustrations introducing each chapter. I usually read fast, but I wanted to take my time to digest what I was discovering within the pages. The pacing is good and the plot was really engaging.
This debut novel is book one in The Umbra series. We follow female detective Amelia Dei who is not respected by her colleagues despite being the first female detective. Early 20th century Liverpool was not ready for a strong woman being in a man's world! Amelia is sidelined at every turn given all the lowest jobs. However, she is not deterred as she knows something sinister is happening at Brownlow Hill Infirmary and she is determined to find out what is going on.
Doctor Arron Knight is a psychiatrist with a dark gift who tries to offer his patients a depraved deal.
The book is shown from the POV of Amelia and Arron, each having their own chapters as the story unfolds. They are well developed and both evoked an emotional response in me. I really wanted Amelia to triumph and show her colleagues that she deserved her place amongst them. Arron's character is dark and twisted but we get to see why he may have turned out this way...
The book explores themes such as women in the workplace, mental health, poverty, sexuality, power, control, exploitation, the occult and trauma. Some of these themes are set within the backdrop of a 1920's Liverpool. However, this gave a wider context to the story and made me think about how far some things have progressed and how some themes are prevalent today.
I thought the book was confidently written and the writing flowed with ease. I loved the historical setting and the dark, intense atmosphere. It had a nice gothic feel in places. The occult theme was an added bonus!
Overall, a great read and I will be keeping up with the series to see what happens next!
With thanks to the authors for providing an ARC for me to review. This is my honest opinion, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
This book is absolutely beautiful, full of haunting illustrations introducing each chapter. I usually read fast, but I wanted to take my time to digest what I was discovering within the pages. The pacing is good and the plot was really engaging.
This debut novel is book one in The Umbra series. We follow female detective Amelia Dei who is not respected by her colleagues despite being the first female detective. Early 20th century Liverpool was not ready for a strong woman being in a man's world! Amelia is sidelined at every turn given all the lowest jobs. However, she is not deterred as she knows something sinister is happening at Brownlow Hill Infirmary and she is determined to find out what is going on.
Doctor Arron Knight is a psychiatrist with a dark gift who tries to offer his patients a depraved deal.
The book is shown from the POV of Amelia and Arron, each having their own chapters as the story unfolds. They are well developed and both evoked an emotional response in me. I really wanted Amelia to triumph and show her colleagues that she deserved her place amongst them. Arron's character is dark and twisted but we get to see why he may have turned out this way...
The book explores themes such as women in the workplace, mental health, poverty, sexuality, power, control, exploitation, the occult and trauma. Some of these themes are set within the backdrop of a 1920's Liverpool. However, this gave a wider context to the story and made me think about how far some things have progressed and how some themes are prevalent today.
I thought the book was confidently written and the writing flowed with ease. I loved the historical setting and the dark, intense atmosphere. It had a nice gothic feel in places. The occult theme was an added bonus!
Overall, a great read and I will be keeping up with the series to see what happens next!
With thanks to the authors for providing an ARC for me to review. This is my honest opinion, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
April 12, 2025
It was a debut book that I was so looking forward to reading. A supernatural thriller set in 1920. We are introduced to the first female detective, Amelia Dei. Liverpool is not the best place for a woman to be respected, and Amelia is out to prove different, even though she is always sidelined.
Told from the perspectives of Amelia and a psychiatrist, Doctor Aaron Knight. I was addicted to this book! I adore historical fiction, and this story created such an atmospheric read. I was back there with Amelia as she strove to earn her place in the world of Liverpool.
The chapters flew by, and I have to say, I was proper on edge with the way it was written. The atmosphere, the gothic feel to the story, and just the way it was so well written, too. Great debut, and I am so glad I was given the chance to read this one!
Thanks to the authors for my gifted book in exchange for my honest review.
Told from the perspectives of Amelia and a psychiatrist, Doctor Aaron Knight. I was addicted to this book! I adore historical fiction, and this story created such an atmospheric read. I was back there with Amelia as she strove to earn her place in the world of Liverpool.
The chapters flew by, and I have to say, I was proper on edge with the way it was written. The atmosphere, the gothic feel to the story, and just the way it was so well written, too. Great debut, and I am so glad I was given the chance to read this one!
Thanks to the authors for my gifted book in exchange for my honest review.
November 8, 2024
“Stranger in the Mind” is the first book in the Umbra Mentis series crafted by author duo J.R. Berrywood and S.L. Aspen. In their debut novel, the authors introduce their readers to Amelia Dei. It is 1920 and Amelia has been promoted to detective in the Liverpool constabulary. As a woman in a traditionally male field, she is given all the not-so-exciting cases. It is when she comes across a case of unexplained comas and deaths at the Brownlow Hill Infirmary that she stands her ground and vows to solve the case.
Along with partner Johnathon Reed, Amelia begins her investigation and during an unsuspecting encounter with Dr. Knight, stumbles into a supernatural world called the Umbra Mentis. Amelia may be disturbed, but she continues digging and the facts of this case become known.
“Stranger in the Mind” is aptly categorized as a supernatural thriller. It has all the elements of suspense, fear, confusion, dark emotions, and reality that readers look for. Berrywood and Aspen wisely choose the setting of an infirmary in 1920s Liverpool, England. From the outset, readers are drawn in with hair-raising scenes. The authors do not waste any time with secondary details. “Stranger in the Mind” quickly draws you in and does not let you go till the last word.
While the supernatural thriller aspects of the book are excellent, the authors do not forget to make their characters real. Berrywood and Aspen share the innermost feelings Amelia experiences. They also set a scene for friendships and respect to grow between Amelia and Reed. Readers witness the struggles of women in the 1920s and also see a ray of hope for change. The doctors and nurses at the infirmary are presented in a way that readers might think they were at the hub during the morning’s debriefing.
Berrywood and Aspen’s “Stranger in the Mind” gets five stars because it is a novel that perfectly displays creativity with a side of excellent editing. The cover art fits well with the story and is sure to catch the attention of readers. Along with thoughtful writing, this author duo includes a golden nugget at the end with a glossary and a list of characters. A great opening book for what is sure to be a great series.
Along with partner Johnathon Reed, Amelia begins her investigation and during an unsuspecting encounter with Dr. Knight, stumbles into a supernatural world called the Umbra Mentis. Amelia may be disturbed, but she continues digging and the facts of this case become known.
“Stranger in the Mind” is aptly categorized as a supernatural thriller. It has all the elements of suspense, fear, confusion, dark emotions, and reality that readers look for. Berrywood and Aspen wisely choose the setting of an infirmary in 1920s Liverpool, England. From the outset, readers are drawn in with hair-raising scenes. The authors do not waste any time with secondary details. “Stranger in the Mind” quickly draws you in and does not let you go till the last word.
While the supernatural thriller aspects of the book are excellent, the authors do not forget to make their characters real. Berrywood and Aspen share the innermost feelings Amelia experiences. They also set a scene for friendships and respect to grow between Amelia and Reed. Readers witness the struggles of women in the 1920s and also see a ray of hope for change. The doctors and nurses at the infirmary are presented in a way that readers might think they were at the hub during the morning’s debriefing.
Berrywood and Aspen’s “Stranger in the Mind” gets five stars because it is a novel that perfectly displays creativity with a side of excellent editing. The cover art fits well with the story and is sure to catch the attention of readers. Along with thoughtful writing, this author duo includes a golden nugget at the end with a glossary and a list of characters. A great opening book for what is sure to be a great series.
October 11, 2024
I'd like to say thank you to @indiebooktours and the authors @aspenberrywood for sending me a copy of this fantastic book.
✞
This book was right up my alley; a supernatural detective mystery set back in the booming 1920's
I really enjoyed being thrown back in time, wisping through the dank streets of Liverpool, following DC Amelia as she makes advances in solving her unusual case.
Working alongside her is detective Reed, their partnership easily flows which is nice as he looks up to her, wanting to work with her, rather than many of the other men of that era at that workplace are quite negative towards her.
I admired Amelia; she is a strong female character, holding her head high as she inserts herself into a man's world. She became one of the first ladies in the police force and due to her determination she became the first lady detective in that time.
I found the writing flowed beautifully and I was able to imagine the scenes being played out with no hassle.
The pace was set just right, the characters were fleshed out quite well and I thought the supernatural element was an interesting one and worked really well.
✞
This is book one of three, I am looking forward to travelling back into the '20's and following DC Amelia and Reed on their future cases.
✞
If you're a fan of crime books, with or without the supernatural edge, I recommend this book to you.
✞
This book was right up my alley; a supernatural detective mystery set back in the booming 1920's
I really enjoyed being thrown back in time, wisping through the dank streets of Liverpool, following DC Amelia as she makes advances in solving her unusual case.
Working alongside her is detective Reed, their partnership easily flows which is nice as he looks up to her, wanting to work with her, rather than many of the other men of that era at that workplace are quite negative towards her.
I admired Amelia; she is a strong female character, holding her head high as she inserts herself into a man's world. She became one of the first ladies in the police force and due to her determination she became the first lady detective in that time.
I found the writing flowed beautifully and I was able to imagine the scenes being played out with no hassle.
The pace was set just right, the characters were fleshed out quite well and I thought the supernatural element was an interesting one and worked really well.
✞
This is book one of three, I am looking forward to travelling back into the '20's and following DC Amelia and Reed on their future cases.
✞
If you're a fan of crime books, with or without the supernatural edge, I recommend this book to you.
October 8, 2024
Thanks to indie book tours and the authors for a copy in return for my honest review.
This book was wonderful, set back in a completely era and time I am used to reading I felt the dark, eerie atmosphere the whole way throughout. It added to the story and to my enjoyment.
Our characters where incredibly fleshed out and i was invested from the beginning. Dr Reed and Amelia where a great pairing and I loved reading about their antics and detective work. I also loved Amelia had a point to prove to her peers throughout and it was great to see her grow throughout the book.
Would recommend. Great writing style and incredibly well paced.
This book was wonderful, set back in a completely era and time I am used to reading I felt the dark, eerie atmosphere the whole way throughout. It added to the story and to my enjoyment.
Our characters where incredibly fleshed out and i was invested from the beginning. Dr Reed and Amelia where a great pairing and I loved reading about their antics and detective work. I also loved Amelia had a point to prove to her peers throughout and it was great to see her grow throughout the book.
Would recommend. Great writing style and incredibly well paced.
April 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐ What if our minds could be invaded so much so that our lives could be changed forever? What if Dr. Knight’s dark gift has taken a sudden turn? And what all the ‘coma cases’ at Brownlow Hill hospital have to do with all of this?
Amelia Dei, the first female detective in 1920 Liverpool sets out to do just that, possibly putting her life in danger. This is the first book in the Umbra Mentis series and I’m honestly excited for the next one!
I was intrigued by the book description, but never could I have imagined such a beautifully crafted supernatural historical thriller! This is so much different from any supernatural thriller I’ve read before and its focus on the occult and the mind it’s what makes it compelling. The audiobook was very well narrated by Liz May Brice, easy to follow and all in all a very enjoyable listening experience.
Not only the originality of the plot is enough to make you want to read this book and continue the series, but the characters feel real and the reader gets to know them from the inside out, understanding their motives and drivers. I couldn’t even hate the antagonist for how multifaceted and therefore authentic they were!
If you like your thrillers with occult elements set in the past, with well crafted characters then this series will be up your street. I also recommend it if you want to read something original and compelling.
Thanks to the authors for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
Amelia Dei, the first female detective in 1920 Liverpool sets out to do just that, possibly putting her life in danger. This is the first book in the Umbra Mentis series and I’m honestly excited for the next one!
I was intrigued by the book description, but never could I have imagined such a beautifully crafted supernatural historical thriller! This is so much different from any supernatural thriller I’ve read before and its focus on the occult and the mind it’s what makes it compelling. The audiobook was very well narrated by Liz May Brice, easy to follow and all in all a very enjoyable listening experience.
Not only the originality of the plot is enough to make you want to read this book and continue the series, but the characters feel real and the reader gets to know them from the inside out, understanding their motives and drivers. I couldn’t even hate the antagonist for how multifaceted and therefore authentic they were!
If you like your thrillers with occult elements set in the past, with well crafted characters then this series will be up your street. I also recommend it if you want to read something original and compelling.
Thanks to the authors for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
September 30, 2024
Blown away!!!
Literally, one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’ve not really read any thriller come supernatural before but this was just so good, without being too heavy on the subject. It was easy enough to understand the concept of the story. A newly appointed Detective Dei, one of few women in the force, dealing with her peers jibes and also her own personal fears of this and also how she developed since losing her dad years ago and him not being able to see her development. She has guts, theories, and knowledgeable and is not afraid to tackle things head on.
I loved it was set in 1920 and could really visualise the grim streets with dim lights and the old infirmary in the background.
Who doesn’t love a doctor, but what secrets is Dr Knight keeping and why are some patients falling into coma’s? Detective Dei is on a mission to uncover these cold cases before it’s too late
You could relate to every character in this book. I really loved Dei and Reeds relationship. I also believe Cumberland is a dark horse, will we see more about him in the next book…..Hope so!!
Eerie, thrilling, loved the historical feel.
Thank you for this great opportunity of such a great story and looking forward to more. I received a copy of the book and this is my honest review. Thank you
Literally, one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’ve not really read any thriller come supernatural before but this was just so good, without being too heavy on the subject. It was easy enough to understand the concept of the story. A newly appointed Detective Dei, one of few women in the force, dealing with her peers jibes and also her own personal fears of this and also how she developed since losing her dad years ago and him not being able to see her development. She has guts, theories, and knowledgeable and is not afraid to tackle things head on.
I loved it was set in 1920 and could really visualise the grim streets with dim lights and the old infirmary in the background.
Who doesn’t love a doctor, but what secrets is Dr Knight keeping and why are some patients falling into coma’s? Detective Dei is on a mission to uncover these cold cases before it’s too late
You could relate to every character in this book. I really loved Dei and Reeds relationship. I also believe Cumberland is a dark horse, will we see more about him in the next book…..Hope so!!
Eerie, thrilling, loved the historical feel.
Thank you for this great opportunity of such a great story and looking forward to more. I received a copy of the book and this is my honest review. Thank you
October 8, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I really liked amelia and how she was very determined to prove their was something wrong with the amount of deaths that were happening with the coma patients and even when she was told not to investigate she carried on. And in 1920 I expect that was something extremely rare. I loved her partnership with detective Reed and I hope we see more of this in the next 2 books. I like how it explored the past of the characters so you get to see why they turned out how they have as they say the past has an affect on our future.
It was such an easy book to get into and I felt like I was there at the time with the descriptions this would make a perfect TV series. And I can not wait to continue the adventures with amelia and detective Reed.
It was such an easy book to get into and I felt like I was there at the time with the descriptions this would make a perfect TV series. And I can not wait to continue the adventures with amelia and detective Reed.
March 29, 2025
There’s something unsettling about stepping into 1920s Liverpool with Stranger in the Mind. It’s not just the mist curling through the streets or the chilling presence of a murderer lurking in the shadows—it’s the sense that something beyond logic, beyond reason, is watching. And I loved every eerie second of it.
Detective Amelia Dei is exactly the kind of protagonist I crave in a supernatural thriller—sharp, relentless, and willing to push past the limits of what’s “real” to find the truth. She’s facing a case that isn’t just about a killer; it’s about the unknown. A doctor whose work teeters on the edge of the unnatural. Whispers of something lurking just beyond human understanding. And as Amelia digs deeper, the lines between mystery, science, and the supernatural begin to blur in the most sinister way.
This book gripped me with its moody, historical setting and masterful suspense. The blend of history and the eerie unexplainable is seamless—it doesn’t just tell a story; it immerses you in a world where every shadow might hold a secret. The tension builds like a storm rolling in, and just when I thought I had a handle on what was happening, the story twisted in a way that left me breathless.
Stranger in the Mind is your next obsession. Just be warned: once you step into its world, you may not want to leave.
Detective Amelia Dei is exactly the kind of protagonist I crave in a supernatural thriller—sharp, relentless, and willing to push past the limits of what’s “real” to find the truth. She’s facing a case that isn’t just about a killer; it’s about the unknown. A doctor whose work teeters on the edge of the unnatural. Whispers of something lurking just beyond human understanding. And as Amelia digs deeper, the lines between mystery, science, and the supernatural begin to blur in the most sinister way.
This book gripped me with its moody, historical setting and masterful suspense. The blend of history and the eerie unexplainable is seamless—it doesn’t just tell a story; it immerses you in a world where every shadow might hold a secret. The tension builds like a storm rolling in, and just when I thought I had a handle on what was happening, the story twisted in a way that left me breathless.
Stranger in the Mind is your next obsession. Just be warned: once you step into its world, you may not want to leave.
July 14, 2025
Now this was a delightful surprise.
I was intrigued when I read the synopsis of "Stranger in the Mind", but in no way, shape, or form was I prepared for how much I enjoyed it. The authors took an interesting concept and brought it to life with descriptive, atmospheric writing which, when combined with a truly excellent voice actress, made listening a truly engrossing experience. So much so that I spent a 5-hour hike completely absorbed. I didn't even feel tired, although, I certainly paid the price the next day.
I also loved the complexity of the two main characters: Amelia and Night. They stand on opposite sides of the central conflict but both are equally fleshed out: Amelia as a determined detective, grappling with her fellow officers' blatant sexism and the other as a deeply traumatized individual who allows himself to be corrupted by his inner darkness and arrogance. What I would have liked to see more of however was Amelia's friendship with Reid. I can appreciate that it did not morph into a romance, but we don't get to see much more than glimpses of its natural progression. There's a lot of potential there that was, regrettably, left untapped.
I received an ALC copy from StoryOrigen. This is my honest review.
I was intrigued when I read the synopsis of "Stranger in the Mind", but in no way, shape, or form was I prepared for how much I enjoyed it. The authors took an interesting concept and brought it to life with descriptive, atmospheric writing which, when combined with a truly excellent voice actress, made listening a truly engrossing experience. So much so that I spent a 5-hour hike completely absorbed. I didn't even feel tired, although, I certainly paid the price the next day.
I also loved the complexity of the two main characters: Amelia and Night. They stand on opposite sides of the central conflict but both are equally fleshed out: Amelia as a determined detective, grappling with her fellow officers' blatant sexism and the other as a deeply traumatized individual who allows himself to be corrupted by his inner darkness and arrogance. What I would have liked to see more of however was Amelia's friendship with Reid. I can appreciate that it did not morph into a romance, but we don't get to see much more than glimpses of its natural progression. There's a lot of potential there that was, regrettably, left untapped.
I received an ALC copy from StoryOrigen. This is my honest review.
October 18, 2024
An incredible debut novel - kept me gripped the whole way through.
Having lived in Liverpool for so many years myself, it was incredibly immersive to follow the characters along streets and into building that I’ve spent years exploring. Albeit a century later.
While there isn’t a huge cast, it was fun to watch the characters develop, particularly Dr Knight. Getting to see so much of his origin helped considerably in understanding his actions.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series once it’s out.
Well done to the authors on their work.
Having lived in Liverpool for so many years myself, it was incredibly immersive to follow the characters along streets and into building that I’ve spent years exploring. Albeit a century later.
While there isn’t a huge cast, it was fun to watch the characters develop, particularly Dr Knight. Getting to see so much of his origin helped considerably in understanding his actions.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series once it’s out.
Well done to the authors on their work.
May 1, 2025
Received as an audio copy to review from Story Origin, this is an honest review. Anchored by the breathtaking and glorious narration by Liz May Brice, Stranger in the Mind is an immersive supernatural thrill ride with amazing, complex characters you cannot forget. Detective Amelia Dei is a fierce forces of nature as she fights to understand the bizarre set of comas and deaths at Brownlow Hill hospital while proving to her male colleagues views of women in a job she shouldn't have. The deeper Amelia and her partner Jonathan Reed dig within the hospital, they discover that a place of healing has become the home for Dr. Knight to exploit a very dark gift he truly believes he can keep control of even as the shadowy world of the Umbra is far more dangerous and haunting than Aaron Knight can understand.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
October 18, 2024
This book was really good. The writing pulled me in and I felt like I was there with the characters. I highly recommend.
November 5, 2024
A well written quick paced thriller with a supernatural edge with an open ending for more to come.
July 12, 2025
Two points of view, very nicely done. Narrator did a great job.
January 1, 2025
You are in for a treat with this one!
In ‘Stranger in the mind’ we are taken back to the 1920’s. Detective Amelia Dei has just made it as Liverpool’s first female detective.
At first, I was wondering which kinder garden the rest of the force belonged to, then I remembered… oh, right, first woman detective… 1920s.
And so, she is stuck with cold cases. Have no fear. She will, of course, find cases that somehow seemes linked, cases that no one else have had a look at, coma patients dying is not that uncommon after all.
There is a veil of eerie over this book. Something unkown is aloft, and there is a cold sensation rising the hairs in your neck, and it is not the draft of your window. As if you read, and you can not properly see it all.
Que: Dr. Aaron Knight. A psychiatrist with a sinister gift. The body count increases. Or is the answer as mundane as Dr. Thomas Bevan? Will Amelia get to the killer in time to save her job and her life? Or will he get to her first? This is a thrilling hunt where you must see to believe.
Now, the question is: Will the villain always choose to do bad things? Or is there hope for humanity yet?
Fun fact from the authors:
Our trilogy started with a short story in August 2021 with the Doctor as the main character... And his name was Simon. Amelia didn't even exist!
The story is set in a real world location and the workhouse was a horrendous place. If you ever visit Liverpool Catholic Cathedral you can find all that remains of our infirmary, the largest bell as you walk the steps into the Cathedral was the bell from the infirmary clock tower.
Me: That is so cool! I need to get to Liverpool!💙📚
In ‘Stranger in the mind’ we are taken back to the 1920’s. Detective Amelia Dei has just made it as Liverpool’s first female detective.
At first, I was wondering which kinder garden the rest of the force belonged to, then I remembered… oh, right, first woman detective… 1920s.
And so, she is stuck with cold cases. Have no fear. She will, of course, find cases that somehow seemes linked, cases that no one else have had a look at, coma patients dying is not that uncommon after all.
There is a veil of eerie over this book. Something unkown is aloft, and there is a cold sensation rising the hairs in your neck, and it is not the draft of your window. As if you read, and you can not properly see it all.
Que: Dr. Aaron Knight. A psychiatrist with a sinister gift. The body count increases. Or is the answer as mundane as Dr. Thomas Bevan? Will Amelia get to the killer in time to save her job and her life? Or will he get to her first? This is a thrilling hunt where you must see to believe.
Now, the question is: Will the villain always choose to do bad things? Or is there hope for humanity yet?
Fun fact from the authors:
Our trilogy started with a short story in August 2021 with the Doctor as the main character... And his name was Simon. Amelia didn't even exist!
The story is set in a real world location and the workhouse was a horrendous place. If you ever visit Liverpool Catholic Cathedral you can find all that remains of our infirmary, the largest bell as you walk the steps into the Cathedral was the bell from the infirmary clock tower.
Me: That is so cool! I need to get to Liverpool!💙📚
May 20, 2025
I absolutely loved the concept of this one. The umbra is so intriguing! Arron was a great blend of intriguing and twisted and I loved seeing his memories. Madame Voss and Cumberland I want to learn more about. Amelia is just fantastic and kick ass.
I didn't want to put this one down and was sad when it ended. The authors done a brilliant job of creating the atmospheres; in the station, asylum and the umbra.
I really loved the art at the beginning of the chapters too, Volodymyr Volianiuk done an incredible job.
I can't wait to see where book 2 takes us.
If you're a fan of thriller, mystery, supernatural or 1920s fiction I'd highly recommend this. And if you're not? I'd actually still say give this one a go!
I didn't want to put this one down and was sad when it ended. The authors done a brilliant job of creating the atmospheres; in the station, asylum and the umbra.
I really loved the art at the beginning of the chapters too, Volodymyr Volianiuk done an incredible job.
I can't wait to see where book 2 takes us.
If you're a fan of thriller, mystery, supernatural or 1920s fiction I'd highly recommend this. And if you're not? I'd actually still say give this one a go!
September 21, 2024
Amazing Story!!!
I was intrigued by the blurb of this book and thought it might be good... I was only partly right, this book is Amazing! I loved the intricate writing style of showing the main character, newly appointed Detective Amelia Dei, with her struggles of not only being one of the few female police officers in 1920 but also her inner problems of just being a woman in a police station, much less a detective. Det. Dei has worked hard her entire life, since her Dad died years ago, to get where she is. Nothing was handed to her.
So this story about these patients who mysteriously go into commas, then strangely die, is something very odd for 1920. Her boss and the other policeman think that there is nothing there, that it is just people dying who happen to be in commas. What could a charming person like Dr. Knight do that would harm his patients?
Their surprise is quite the change within this story, she is not just a detective, she has a lot of knowledge, and she has many gut instincts that walk her through places that most would not go!
Thank you, JR Berrywood & SL Aspen, for a great story!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I was intrigued by the blurb of this book and thought it might be good... I was only partly right, this book is Amazing! I loved the intricate writing style of showing the main character, newly appointed Detective Amelia Dei, with her struggles of not only being one of the few female police officers in 1920 but also her inner problems of just being a woman in a police station, much less a detective. Det. Dei has worked hard her entire life, since her Dad died years ago, to get where she is. Nothing was handed to her.
So this story about these patients who mysteriously go into commas, then strangely die, is something very odd for 1920. Her boss and the other policeman think that there is nothing there, that it is just people dying who happen to be in commas. What could a charming person like Dr. Knight do that would harm his patients?
Their surprise is quite the change within this story, she is not just a detective, she has a lot of knowledge, and she has many gut instincts that walk her through places that most would not go!
Thank you, JR Berrywood & SL Aspen, for a great story!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
May 6, 2025
Audiobook: This story was a collaboration between two authors, and it was my first experience with either one. My attention was hooked from the opening paragraphs until the very end, and I listened to the whole audiobook in one sitting. Although this story was told from two POVs, one character named Doctor Arron Knight and the other was named Detective Amelia Dei, I had no trouble following the flow of the story. I thought the characters were powerfully written as Dr. Knight was a psychiatrist with a special gift and Detective Amelia Dei was the first woman detective in Liverpool in the 1920's. I felt that the combination of all the elements: the underlying themes, the descriptive setting, the strong characters, and the uncomfortable moments added together to make a very thought-provoking and memorable story. I enjoyed Liz May Brice's narration, and her performance kept my attention. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
November 8, 2024
Wow wow wow! This book was right up my street! Congratulations Aspen & Berrywood on a fantastic debut novel.
I was hooked from chapter one with Dei’s determination to make sure being a female detective in 1920s Liverpool wasn’t going to stop her from doing what she loved.
The way Aspen & Berrywood described the Umbra I really felt like I was there, very intriguing and has opened my eyes to reading more novels with a supernatural twist!
Such an exciting book and I cannot wait to read the next.
I was hooked from chapter one with Dei’s determination to make sure being a female detective in 1920s Liverpool wasn’t going to stop her from doing what she loved.
The way Aspen & Berrywood described the Umbra I really felt like I was there, very intriguing and has opened my eyes to reading more novels with a supernatural twist!
Such an exciting book and I cannot wait to read the next.
January 10, 2025
As someone who doesn't usually read this genre I was pleasantly surprised at how much I got into it. The story is great, well written and fast paced keeping me hooked throughout.
It's dark and emotive at times and has definitely kept my attention for upcoming books from this author. It was a great entry for me to explore more in this genre.
I would recommend - you don't need to be a fantasy reader to appreciate this book and it's story.
It's dark and emotive at times and has definitely kept my attention for upcoming books from this author. It was a great entry for me to explore more in this genre.
I would recommend - you don't need to be a fantasy reader to appreciate this book and it's story.
July 11, 2025
A dangerous doctor, Dr. Knight and a rookie detective. Ms. Dei. Liverpool in the 1920's. Two POVs. Hospital deaths following comas. Are they connected? Suspicious actions. A well written story. Hard to put down. Narrated by Liz May Brice with clarity and perfect expression. I found her audible intake of breath somewhat distracting at first. 4 stars for her.
I was gifted this Audiobook. This is my honest review..
I was gifted this Audiobook. This is my honest review..
March 6, 2025
I was intrigued by the blurb...but kind of iffy because I'm picky about historical stuff. Even fiction. But I'm glad I picked this up! Amelia is a character you can't help but love and root for. I was hooked from the very beginning. I'm ready for more!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2025
This is a new to me author, but I am glad I took a chance on this book. It has so many twists and turns that keep you listening and wanting more. I look forward to more in this series.
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