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The Sleepwalker
Ellie has a problem. The monster in her dreams has come to life.
Dr. Ellie Thompson has always been haunted by her nightmares. But now they're bleeding into reality. She wakes to find there really is glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow.
How is this possible? Is she sleepwalking?
When threatening messages appear on her phone and then vanish, when incidents she vividly recalls prove to be imaginary, Ellie begins to wonder if there is something more sinister afoot. Is someone doing this to her, trying to drive her mad?
As her grip on reality slips away, Ellie suspects everyone around her. Her distant husband with his unexplained absences. Her obsessive ex who can't let go. Even her psychiatrist, whose connection to one of her own medical cases raises disturbing questions.
As Ellie fights to discover if these terrors come from inside her own mind or from someone outside, she will finally draw close to the truth. A truth more horrifying, more shocking, than even the worst of her nightmares…
The Sleepwalker – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Daniel Hurst and John Marrs.
Dr. Ellie Thompson has always been haunted by her nightmares. But now they're bleeding into reality. She wakes to find there really is glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow.
How is this possible? Is she sleepwalking?
When threatening messages appear on her phone and then vanish, when incidents she vividly recalls prove to be imaginary, Ellie begins to wonder if there is something more sinister afoot. Is someone doing this to her, trying to drive her mad?
As her grip on reality slips away, Ellie suspects everyone around her. Her distant husband with his unexplained absences. Her obsessive ex who can't let go. Even her psychiatrist, whose connection to one of her own medical cases raises disturbing questions.
As Ellie fights to discover if these terrors come from inside her own mind or from someone outside, she will finally draw close to the truth. A truth more horrifying, more shocking, than even the worst of her nightmares…
The Sleepwalker – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Daniel Hurst and John Marrs.
341 pages, ebook
First published May 17, 2025
678 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
May 14, 2025
This debut thriller kept me on my toes. The line between dreams and reality is obscured as the story unfolds. Ellie struggles to distinguish nightmares from truth and friends from foes as her life gradually falls apart. Is someone trying to drive Ellie over the edge, or is her mind her worst enemy? The tension was high as secrets were revealed with a shocking conclusion. I loved trying to solve this sinister puzzle, not knowing at times if I was reading a dream sequence. It's intense, unsettling, and addictive. I look forward to reading future thrillers by this author. Thank you, Booksprout and Inkubator Books, for my ARC.
April 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Sleepwalker was a gripping and unsettling read that kept me hooked from the start. I really enjoyed how the story blurred the lines between dreams and reality. Ellie’s character felt raw and believable, and I found myself constantly wondering if she was losing her mind or if someone was actually out to get her.
The tension builds quickly and the pacing kept me turning the pages. Some parts felt a bit far-fetched, but overall it was a solid psychological thriller with some great twists. If you like books that mess with your head and keep you guessing, this one’s worth picking up.
The Sleepwalker was a gripping and unsettling read that kept me hooked from the start. I really enjoyed how the story blurred the lines between dreams and reality. Ellie’s character felt raw and believable, and I found myself constantly wondering if she was losing her mind or if someone was actually out to get her.
The tension builds quickly and the pacing kept me turning the pages. Some parts felt a bit far-fetched, but overall it was a solid psychological thriller with some great twists. If you like books that mess with your head and keep you guessing, this one’s worth picking up.
May 3, 2025
The Sleep Walker by Ian Blackwood is a cleverly plotted, atmospheric thriller that had me hooked from the very beginning. The premise is both original and unsettling, centering around a character whose reality is as questionable as their memories. It’s the kind of psychological suspense that keeps you second-guessing everything—and everyone.
The pacing is tight and the tension builds steadily, with just enough intrigue and emotional depth to keep me invested throughout. Blackwood does a great job of slowly revealing crucial information, making it difficult to put the book down. I particularly appreciated the layered character work and the eerie tone that lingered long after I finished.
An excellent pick for fans of dark, twisty thrillers with a strong psychological edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this gripping title!
The pacing is tight and the tension builds steadily, with just enough intrigue and emotional depth to keep me invested throughout. Blackwood does a great job of slowly revealing crucial information, making it difficult to put the book down. I particularly appreciated the layered character work and the eerie tone that lingered long after I finished.
An excellent pick for fans of dark, twisty thrillers with a strong psychological edge.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this gripping title!
May 10, 2025
THE SLEEPWALKER BY IAN BLACKWOOD.
Release date set for the 18th of May 2025.
I thought this was a good book. Good storyline. Even paced.
I didn't know if Ellie was actually losing her mind or not.
This is my first book by this author and I'll read more of his work
Release date set for the 18th of May 2025.
I thought this was a good book. Good storyline. Even paced.
I didn't know if Ellie was actually losing her mind or not.
This is my first book by this author and I'll read more of his work
May 20, 2025
This book was brilliant and creepy! The concept was tremendous. I literally was questioning reality myself.
The cover is an excellent design and it feels pretty ominous which is perfect. Just seeing the feet and jammy bottoms was genius.
The story was written well and flowed nicely. The descriptions were good and the writing just the right amount of tension.
The characters were very good. I liked Ellie but I felt sorry for her. It was excellent mental health representation. It was difficult deciding who to trust with the rest of the characters. But they were all great in their roles.
The book is written in first person from Ellie's POV predominantly. We also have some flashback chapters. The narrator is not who you think it is!
I really recommend this. Such an enjoyable and tense read.
The cover is an excellent design and it feels pretty ominous which is perfect. Just seeing the feet and jammy bottoms was genius.
The story was written well and flowed nicely. The descriptions were good and the writing just the right amount of tension.
The characters were very good. I liked Ellie but I felt sorry for her. It was excellent mental health representation. It was difficult deciding who to trust with the rest of the characters. But they were all great in their roles.
The book is written in first person from Ellie's POV predominantly. We also have some flashback chapters. The narrator is not who you think it is!
I really recommend this. Such an enjoyable and tense read.
May 13, 2025
I would like to thank NetGalley, Ian Blackwood and Inkubator books for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
3 ⭐ - When I read the summary of this book, I was sold.. a doctor that dreams about something and wakes up to find it actually happening to her? Sign me up!
Unfortunately the story was really predictable at times, which made me lose interest. Although it had some twists and turns, I expected a bit more of the story.
3 ⭐ - When I read the summary of this book, I was sold.. a doctor that dreams about something and wakes up to find it actually happening to her? Sign me up!
Unfortunately the story was really predictable at times, which made me lose interest. Although it had some twists and turns, I expected a bit more of the story.
April 24, 2025
A binge worthy thriller by debut author Ian Blackwood.
The sleepwalker follows Dr. Ellie Thompson as she struggles with her marriage and terrifying nightmares. She can’t get a grasp on what’s reality or her dreams. It doesn’t help her sanity when her car is vandalized, she receives anonymous phone calls and has been chased and stalked in public but nobody believes her, including the police.
Readers must figure out is Ellie insane and suffering PTSD from her past or is someone out to get her and playing mind games while they do it.
I sped through this book in 1 day, you won’t be able to put it down! Thank you to NetGalley, Ian Blackwood and the publisher, inkubator books for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The sleepwalker follows Dr. Ellie Thompson as she struggles with her marriage and terrifying nightmares. She can’t get a grasp on what’s reality or her dreams. It doesn’t help her sanity when her car is vandalized, she receives anonymous phone calls and has been chased and stalked in public but nobody believes her, including the police.
Readers must figure out is Ellie insane and suffering PTSD from her past or is someone out to get her and playing mind games while they do it.
I sped through this book in 1 day, you won’t be able to put it down! Thank you to NetGalley, Ian Blackwood and the publisher, inkubator books for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2025
This was an eerie story with a creepy atmosphere. I was shocked by the ending and was invested in the characters. This is a solid thriller I would recommend. Special Thank You to Ian Blackwood, Inkubator Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2025
The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood, trust me when I say this is a doozy of a thriller! I have never read a thriller by the author before but this is an awesome one Doctor Ellie is a surgeon and suffers from nightmares and more recently sleepwalking. It’s bad enough when her nightmares depict real events that happened in her life but add more Scary details like being chased caught and even worse. Husband Nick tries to be reassuring and supportive but Ellie feels like he just wants to go with the flow although he encourages her to see a psychiatrist that isn’t beneficial to the career she wants and could harm her working reputation but she does take solace in the friendship she has with an aesthetician James and nurse Penny her best friend. on more than one occasion she felt like she’s being followed and watched and then the scary phone calls start but this is just the beginning. Ellie knows someone wants to harm her but who could it be the patient who’s death happened on her watch Nick‘s crazy ex Natasha the suspects are plenty, but when one of them winds up dead she knows whoever it is is playing for keeps. for those who love well done thrillers with many questions raise that are all answered by the end of the book will absolutely love the sleepwalker as I said I have never read a thriller by this author before but I will definitely read any he writes in the future. The ending was a tad bit out there but I would still define it as an awesome ending.#BookSprout, #IncubatorBooks, #TheBlindReviewer, #HonestReview, #IanBlackmore, #TheSleepwalker,
May 18, 2025
"Where do you go when you close your eyes?"
The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood is a tense and engaging psychological thriller that explores hidden trauma, the complexities of memory and sleep disorders.
Dr. Elle Thompson is highly respected in her field, married to her husband Nick, and she seems to have a life that many only dream about. But all of her peace and quiet comes to an end when Elle starts having nightmares. Ever since her parents tragically died when she was younger, Elle has been haunted by these reoccurring dreams. But now her nightmares are back and more intense than ever. Pretty soon Elle begins to question her sanity when she can no longer distinguish reality from her nightmares. Add in a mysterious stalker and Elle's fragile grip on reality starts to falter. Can she figure out who is doing this to her, or will she be stuck in this nightmare forever?
This was a strong start that got progressively creepier and ominous as we moved throughout the book! With the dual POV between an unknown person and Elle, you get to piece together the story in a way that will leave you wanting more! I love a good unreliable narrator trope and this one did not disappoint! I will definitely be looking out for more by Ian Blackwood!
Thank you to NetGalley, Ian Blackwood, and Inkubator Books for this ARC! Publication date is May 18th 2025.
The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood is a tense and engaging psychological thriller that explores hidden trauma, the complexities of memory and sleep disorders.
Dr. Elle Thompson is highly respected in her field, married to her husband Nick, and she seems to have a life that many only dream about. But all of her peace and quiet comes to an end when Elle starts having nightmares. Ever since her parents tragically died when she was younger, Elle has been haunted by these reoccurring dreams. But now her nightmares are back and more intense than ever. Pretty soon Elle begins to question her sanity when she can no longer distinguish reality from her nightmares. Add in a mysterious stalker and Elle's fragile grip on reality starts to falter. Can she figure out who is doing this to her, or will she be stuck in this nightmare forever?
This was a strong start that got progressively creepier and ominous as we moved throughout the book! With the dual POV between an unknown person and Elle, you get to piece together the story in a way that will leave you wanting more! I love a good unreliable narrator trope and this one did not disappoint! I will definitely be looking out for more by Ian Blackwood!
Thank you to NetGalley, Ian Blackwood, and Inkubator Books for this ARC! Publication date is May 18th 2025.
August 4, 2025
The author mentions that this is his first novel, and I’m impressed! The excellent grammar (he even knows how to use commas!) is explained when you read about his impressive biography. This book reads quickly. While it might be predictable to some people, it still doesn’t take away from the enjoyment. The only thing that I didn’t like was the last chapter. Yes, this is one of those many books where the author thinks he can add that one last twist. But really, it just ruins a perfectly good book. Still, read it. It’s a nice thriller.
May 10, 2025
This book is a twisting, turning psychological thriller with believable characters, crisp dialogue and plot twists that kept me glued to my chair until the surprising reveal. The ending looks like a set up for a sequel. I certainly hope so.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Zooloo Book Tours for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really liked this book. Something about not knowing the difference between reality and dreams is so creepy and interesting to me! The author did a great job with each character and how they tie into each other as well. Great twist and a quick read as it kept me hooked!
I really liked this book. Something about not knowing the difference between reality and dreams is so creepy and interesting to me! The author did a great job with each character and how they tie into each other as well. Great twist and a quick read as it kept me hooked!
September 5, 2025
I wanted to like this one but it was almost a DNF for me. I kept hoping it would get better or that the twist would make it worth it. Nope. The twist was unfortunately very predictable.
I didn't like the writing style either. I often found the dialogue quite stilted, especially with the extreme overuse of character names. People just don't speak that way. I also cringed every time I read "cos" or "D'you". There were several typos as well, which lends to the feeling of a poorly edited book.
Overall, with the predictable ending and the writing style, I'm quite surprised to see how high the ratings are for this book. I'm not a fan but seem to be an outlier with that sentiment.
I didn't like the writing style either. I often found the dialogue quite stilted, especially with the extreme overuse of character names. People just don't speak that way. I also cringed every time I read "cos" or "D'you". There were several typos as well, which lends to the feeling of a poorly edited book.
Overall, with the predictable ending and the writing style, I'm quite surprised to see how high the ratings are for this book. I'm not a fan but seem to be an outlier with that sentiment.
June 14, 2025
Predictable from the start. I kept reading hoping the ending would surprise me, but it didn’t. I also found Ellie to be annoying and she continuously behaved in stupid ways. The dialogue also bothered me and felt stilted. The story was not immersive and didn’t evoke any emotion. Surprising, based of the premise, I expected to be on the edge of my seat. I suppose I am in the minority, but the plot wasn’t very original and left me disappointed.
May 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for providing an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Ellie is a doctor, married to her husband Nick, living the perfect life she always wanted. Until her nightmares start coming back. Her parents died when she was young and she was plagued by vivid nightmares afterwards. For some reason, years later, her nightmares are coming back full force to the point where Ellie questions her own sanity and can't tell what events are real and what ones are nightmares. She is being stalked by someone and she is convinced that the person stalking her is the person making her feel crazy. She is determined to find out who is doing this to her so she can take her life back.
Wow, this started off STRONG. Talk about creepy. We start with the point of view of someone, we don't know who it is, and their experiences as a child (it's almost written like a diary). The book goes back and forth between the unknown person (italic chapters) and Ellie.
I really enjoyed this one. It kept me hooked and NEEDING to find out what happens. Is Ellie actually insane? Is someone really stalking her? Is she really having nightmares or is it reality? Trying to find the line where it all makes sense was so hard. I did guess the ending and I was right, but I still really enjoyed it and the reveal was very satisfying.
There were a couple things that I didn't like about it:
1. Some moments the story read as if he was doing the "long story short" thing. For example, sentences like "I walked to the car. Looked to the right. Grabbed the keys. Fumbled with the keys. dropped the keys..." etc. This threw me off a little bit because I felt like some of those details weren't really necessary.
2. I found that there were some plot holes - specifically with one incident where
3. I'm not sure if this is a UK thing, but the use of the word "cos" to replace "because" made reading a little bit slower. I've never seen that in a book before, so I wasn't sure if it was a normal UK thing.
4. There were a lot of typos. A LOT. I actually screenshotted a couple of them (only one of the below will be a spoiler):
- "'Hello Samson.' I kneeled, stroked him, and he rolled on his belly for me to scratch his
tummy." (Ch. 28)
- "It was Nick. My eyes popped open; I propped herself up on one elbow." (Ch. 31)
- "I climbed out of bed, showered, dressed: a casual pair of jeans, and a long-sleeved designer
T-shirt that I'd picked up at TK Maxx." (Ch. 34)
- (Ch. 39)
These are obviously not all of them, but these are the ones that stood out the most.
Despite all of the above, I REALLY enjoyed this. The concept, the unreliable character trope, the story, and the way some of the scenes were written had me actually cringing (in a good way). This also reminded me a little bit of Scream, which was a cool idea. I do think the book could have been a little shorter because it felt a little repetitive at times. I will definitely be looking at more of Ian Blackwood's books in the future.
Ellie is a doctor, married to her husband Nick, living the perfect life she always wanted. Until her nightmares start coming back. Her parents died when she was young and she was plagued by vivid nightmares afterwards. For some reason, years later, her nightmares are coming back full force to the point where Ellie questions her own sanity and can't tell what events are real and what ones are nightmares. She is being stalked by someone and she is convinced that the person stalking her is the person making her feel crazy. She is determined to find out who is doing this to her so she can take her life back.
Wow, this started off STRONG. Talk about creepy. We start with the point of view of someone, we don't know who it is, and their experiences as a child (it's almost written like a diary). The book goes back and forth between the unknown person (italic chapters) and Ellie.
I really enjoyed this one. It kept me hooked and NEEDING to find out what happens. Is Ellie actually insane? Is someone really stalking her? Is she really having nightmares or is it reality? Trying to find the line where it all makes sense was so hard. I did guess the ending and I was right, but I still really enjoyed it and the reveal was very satisfying.
There were a couple things that I didn't like about it:
1. Some moments the story read as if he was doing the "long story short" thing. For example, sentences like "I walked to the car. Looked to the right. Grabbed the keys. Fumbled with the keys. dropped the keys..." etc. This threw me off a little bit because I felt like some of those details weren't really necessary.
2. I found that there were some plot holes - specifically with one incident where
3. I'm not sure if this is a UK thing, but the use of the word "cos" to replace "because" made reading a little bit slower. I've never seen that in a book before, so I wasn't sure if it was a normal UK thing.
4. There were a lot of typos. A LOT. I actually screenshotted a couple of them (only one of the below will be a spoiler):
- "'Hello Samson.' I kneeled, stroked him, and he rolled on his belly for me to scratch his
tummy." (Ch. 28)
- "It was Nick. My eyes popped open; I propped herself up on one elbow." (Ch. 31)
- "I climbed out of bed, showered, dressed: a casual pair of jeans, and a long-sleeved designer
T-shirt that I'd picked up at TK Maxx." (Ch. 34)
- (Ch. 39)
These are obviously not all of them, but these are the ones that stood out the most.
Despite all of the above, I REALLY enjoyed this. The concept, the unreliable character trope, the story, and the way some of the scenes were written had me actually cringing (in a good way). This also reminded me a little bit of Scream, which was a cool idea. I do think the book could have been a little shorter because it felt a little repetitive at times. I will definitely be looking at more of Ian Blackwood's books in the future.
May 16, 2025
Book Review: The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood
A Gripping Psychological Thriller That Keeps You Guessing
Ian Blackwood’s The Sleepwalker is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that delves into the unsettling intersection of sleep disorders, memory, and hidden trauma. The novel follows a protagonist whose nocturnal wanderings unravel a dark mystery, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare. With taut pacing and an atmosphere thick with tension, Blackwood delivers a story that lingers long after the final page.
Key Strengths
-Unrelenting Suspense: The narrative’s clever structure—alternating between lucid daytime investigations and disorienting sleepwalking episodes—creates a visceral sense of unease.
-Complex Protagonist: The lead character’s struggle with parasomnia adds psychological depth, making their journey as compelling as the central mystery.
-Atmospheric Writing: Blackwood’s prose is immersive, evoking a chilling, almost cinematic ambiance that heightens the story’s eerie undertones.
Potential Considerations
-Pacing Variability: Some middle sections slow to deepen character development, which may test readers craving constant action.
-Ambiguous Resolution: The ending leans into psychological ambiguity, which could frustrate those preferring neatly tied conclusions.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A twisty, original premise with minor pacing dips.
-Characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – The protagonist’s layered psyche steals the show.
-Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Unmatched tension and mood.
-Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Fresh take on sleep disorders in thrillers.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) – A standout in psychological suspense.
Ideal Audience
-Fans of Gone Girl or The Silent Patient who relish unreliable narrators.
-Readers intrigued by medical mysteries or sleep science woven into fiction.
-Those who appreciate endings that provoke discussion over closure.
Gratitude
Thank you to NetGalley and Ian Blackwood for the advance review copy. The Sleepwalker is a testament to Blackwood’s skill in merging psychological depth with page-turning thrills—a must-read for thriller enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
Blackwood’s The Sleepwalker is a haunting, inventive thriller that excels in character-driven tension. While its deliberate ambiguity won’t suit everyone, it’s a rewarding read for those who love stories that unsettle and challenge. Highly recommended.
Note: This review reflects the ARC edition; minor changes may appear in the final publication.
A Gripping Psychological Thriller That Keeps You Guessing
Ian Blackwood’s The Sleepwalker is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that delves into the unsettling intersection of sleep disorders, memory, and hidden trauma. The novel follows a protagonist whose nocturnal wanderings unravel a dark mystery, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare. With taut pacing and an atmosphere thick with tension, Blackwood delivers a story that lingers long after the final page.
Key Strengths
-Unrelenting Suspense: The narrative’s clever structure—alternating between lucid daytime investigations and disorienting sleepwalking episodes—creates a visceral sense of unease.
-Complex Protagonist: The lead character’s struggle with parasomnia adds psychological depth, making their journey as compelling as the central mystery.
-Atmospheric Writing: Blackwood’s prose is immersive, evoking a chilling, almost cinematic ambiance that heightens the story’s eerie undertones.
Potential Considerations
-Pacing Variability: Some middle sections slow to deepen character development, which may test readers craving constant action.
-Ambiguous Resolution: The ending leans into psychological ambiguity, which could frustrate those preferring neatly tied conclusions.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A twisty, original premise with minor pacing dips.
-Characterization: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – The protagonist’s layered psyche steals the show.
-Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Unmatched tension and mood.
-Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Fresh take on sleep disorders in thrillers.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5) – A standout in psychological suspense.
Ideal Audience
-Fans of Gone Girl or The Silent Patient who relish unreliable narrators.
-Readers intrigued by medical mysteries or sleep science woven into fiction.
-Those who appreciate endings that provoke discussion over closure.
Gratitude
Thank you to NetGalley and Ian Blackwood for the advance review copy. The Sleepwalker is a testament to Blackwood’s skill in merging psychological depth with page-turning thrills—a must-read for thriller enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
Blackwood’s The Sleepwalker is a haunting, inventive thriller that excels in character-driven tension. While its deliberate ambiguity won’t suit everyone, it’s a rewarding read for those who love stories that unsettle and challenge. Highly recommended.
Note: This review reflects the ARC edition; minor changes may appear in the final publication.
May 20, 2025
Here is my review for The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood
This was an absolutely brilliant psychological story that drew me in right from the very start of the book. I was on tenterhooks throughout the book for Ellie who was having horrendous nightmares and being haunted by them almost nightly. She was having difficulties differentiating between dreams and real life. Her husband Nick would comfort her during the night. Then she started wondering where her husband was going when he was out as she caught him out in a lie. Then someone slashed her front tyres whilst she was shopping at Tesco’s and tampered with her car so it wouldn’t start when she was at work. The story was superbly written and well plotted by the author. The character of Ellie was extremely well written and well planned out. It was very descriptive and very well described throughout. I could understand the terror that Ellie felt. The synopsis drew me to read this book and I certainly wasn’t disappointed by reading this story. I was hooked from the start of the book as I couldn’t put the book down as I wanted to know what happened next. The other characters in the book were interesting and some were supportive towards Ellie too. I look forward to reading the next book from this author.
Blurb :
Ellie has a problem. The monster in her dreams has come to life.
Dr. Ellie Thompson has always been haunted by her nightmares. But now they're bleeding into reality. She wakes to find there really is glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow.
How is this possible? Is she sleepwalking?
When threatening messages appear on her phone and then vanish, when incidents she vividly recalls prove to be imaginary, Ellie begins to wonder if there is something more sinister afoot. Is someone doing this to her, trying to drive her mad?
As her grip on reality slips away, Ellie suspects everyone around her. Her distant husband with his unexplained absences. Her obsessive ex who can't let go. Even her psychiatrist, whose connection to one of her own medical cases raises disturbing questions.
As Ellie fights to discover if these terrors come from inside her own mind or from someone outside, she will finally draw close to the truth. A truth more horrifying, more shocking, than even the worst of her nightmares…
The Sleepwalker – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Daniel Hurst and John Marrs.
This was an absolutely brilliant psychological story that drew me in right from the very start of the book. I was on tenterhooks throughout the book for Ellie who was having horrendous nightmares and being haunted by them almost nightly. She was having difficulties differentiating between dreams and real life. Her husband Nick would comfort her during the night. Then she started wondering where her husband was going when he was out as she caught him out in a lie. Then someone slashed her front tyres whilst she was shopping at Tesco’s and tampered with her car so it wouldn’t start when she was at work. The story was superbly written and well plotted by the author. The character of Ellie was extremely well written and well planned out. It was very descriptive and very well described throughout. I could understand the terror that Ellie felt. The synopsis drew me to read this book and I certainly wasn’t disappointed by reading this story. I was hooked from the start of the book as I couldn’t put the book down as I wanted to know what happened next. The other characters in the book were interesting and some were supportive towards Ellie too. I look forward to reading the next book from this author.
Blurb :
Ellie has a problem. The monster in her dreams has come to life.
Dr. Ellie Thompson has always been haunted by her nightmares. But now they're bleeding into reality. She wakes to find there really is glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow.
How is this possible? Is she sleepwalking?
When threatening messages appear on her phone and then vanish, when incidents she vividly recalls prove to be imaginary, Ellie begins to wonder if there is something more sinister afoot. Is someone doing this to her, trying to drive her mad?
As her grip on reality slips away, Ellie suspects everyone around her. Her distant husband with his unexplained absences. Her obsessive ex who can't let go. Even her psychiatrist, whose connection to one of her own medical cases raises disturbing questions.
As Ellie fights to discover if these terrors come from inside her own mind or from someone outside, she will finally draw close to the truth. A truth more horrifying, more shocking, than even the worst of her nightmares…
The Sleepwalker – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Daniel Hurst and John Marrs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
Lately, I’ve been riding a thrilling wave of psychological suspense, and thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours—who specialize in gripping thriller reads—I’ve discovered some absolute gems. One standout is The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood, an ARC I couldn’t put down. This intense psychological thriller reminded me of Anna O by Matthew Blake with hints of Megan Goldin’s Stay Awake—a chilling mix of sleep disorders, unreliable perception, and dangerous secrets.
Dr. Ellie Thompson is the kind of protagonist who pulls you in immediately. A successful doctor, Ellie has always battled vivid nightmares. But now, those nightmares are seeping into her waking life. She finds blood on her hands, shards of glass in her bed, and knives under her pillow—without any memory of how they got there. As her grip on reality loosens, Ellie becomes desperate for answers, yet fearful of seeking help. After all, speaking to a therapist could mean suspension from her job—something she can’t risk.
What makes The Sleepwalker so engrossing is the constant sense of dread. Is Ellie losing her mind, or is someone manipulating her into believing she is? The theme of gaslighting is woven expertly through the story, with every chapter deepening the mystery. The dual timeline—shifting between past and present—adds further intrigue, gradually revealing the trauma and choices that shaped Ellie’s life and those around her.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its exploration of the foster care system. Through Ellie’s past, we see the stark contrast between being adopted into a loving family or left behind. The book thoughtfully examines how childhood trauma can haunt us, but also how resilience and mindset determine our future.
And just when I thought I had it all figured out—bam!—Ian Blackwood throws in a twist that completely floored me. I was convinced I knew who the manipulator was, but the real mastermind caught me completely off guard. That reveal alone elevated the book from a solid thriller to an unforgettable one.
If you enjoy thrillers that mess with your mind, question your reality, and leave you breathless by the end, The Sleepwalker is a must-read. With a strong female lead, a gripping descent into paranoia, and a haunting psychological mystery at its core, this is one book that will make you question your own sleep schedules and patterns.
Dr. Ellie Thompson is the kind of protagonist who pulls you in immediately. A successful doctor, Ellie has always battled vivid nightmares. But now, those nightmares are seeping into her waking life. She finds blood on her hands, shards of glass in her bed, and knives under her pillow—without any memory of how they got there. As her grip on reality loosens, Ellie becomes desperate for answers, yet fearful of seeking help. After all, speaking to a therapist could mean suspension from her job—something she can’t risk.
What makes The Sleepwalker so engrossing is the constant sense of dread. Is Ellie losing her mind, or is someone manipulating her into believing she is? The theme of gaslighting is woven expertly through the story, with every chapter deepening the mystery. The dual timeline—shifting between past and present—adds further intrigue, gradually revealing the trauma and choices that shaped Ellie’s life and those around her.
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its exploration of the foster care system. Through Ellie’s past, we see the stark contrast between being adopted into a loving family or left behind. The book thoughtfully examines how childhood trauma can haunt us, but also how resilience and mindset determine our future.
And just when I thought I had it all figured out—bam!—Ian Blackwood throws in a twist that completely floored me. I was convinced I knew who the manipulator was, but the real mastermind caught me completely off guard. That reveal alone elevated the book from a solid thriller to an unforgettable one.
If you enjoy thrillers that mess with your mind, question your reality, and leave you breathless by the end, The Sleepwalker is a must-read. With a strong female lead, a gripping descent into paranoia, and a haunting psychological mystery at its core, this is one book that will make you question your own sleep schedules and patterns.
November 16, 2025
Ellie, a doctor suffering from horrific nightmares every night, has spent her entire life learning to separate her dreams from reality. Despite the terror she faces in her sleep, she has always managed to keep her professional life intact. Being a doctor is her identity, her purpose, her everything. But as her nightmares grow increasingly vivid and aggressive, her dream world and waking world begin to bleed together, leaving her unable to trust anyone, not even her husband. Frightening situations she once dismissed as “just dreams” starts happening around her. With her nightmares feeling more real than ever, Ellie must confront an unsettling question: Is she losing her mind, or is something or someone truly trying to harm her?
This was my first time reading a book by Ian Blackwood, and I have to say he delivered. The Sleepwalker is a true page turner. I could not put it down. From the very first chapter, the tension grabbed me and never let go. The twists and turns left me stunned, and the suspense builds flawlessly.
Ian Blackwood does an incredible job showing how fragile the line between dreams and waking life can be, and how dangerous it becomes when those worlds collide. Nothing is as it seems, and everything keeps you questioning. His writing style is gripping and atmospheric, making every moment feel unsettling in the best possible way, that wants you to keep reading. All in all beautifully written and The Sleepwalker has definitely convinced me to check out more of Ian Blackwood’s work.
Highly recommend reading especially those who love the unexpected.
Thank you, Netgalley, the author and the publish, for an advance copy for an honest review.
This was my first time reading a book by Ian Blackwood, and I have to say he delivered. The Sleepwalker is a true page turner. I could not put it down. From the very first chapter, the tension grabbed me and never let go. The twists and turns left me stunned, and the suspense builds flawlessly.
Ian Blackwood does an incredible job showing how fragile the line between dreams and waking life can be, and how dangerous it becomes when those worlds collide. Nothing is as it seems, and everything keeps you questioning. His writing style is gripping and atmospheric, making every moment feel unsettling in the best possible way, that wants you to keep reading. All in all beautifully written and The Sleepwalker has definitely convinced me to check out more of Ian Blackwood’s work.
Highly recommend reading especially those who love the unexpected.
Thank you, Netgalley, the author and the publish, for an advance copy for an honest review.
April 25, 2025
This book had me questioning reality right alongside Ellie. From the very first chapter, I was hooked, trying to discern what was real and what was a product of her sleep-deprived mind.
The medical aspects of Ellie's condition were particularly intriguing. The detailed descriptions of her sleepwalking episodes and the subsequent consequences added a layer of authenticity to the narrative. It was evident that Blackwood did his research, and it paid off.
The structure of the book, with its interspersed flashback chapters, was masterfully done. Each flashback peeled back another layer of the mystery, keeping me guessing about whose memories I was delving into. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist would make me second-guess everything.
Ellie's descent into uncertainty was palpable. There were moments where I genuinely couldn't tell if an event was a dream or reality, mirroring Ellie's own confusion. This immersive experience made the story all the more compelling.
As for the twist—while some might find it predictable, I appreciated the seeds of doubt planted throughout the narrative. It wasn't just about the twist itself but how it was executed. And let's talk about her husband... not winning any 'Husband of the Year' awards, that's for sure.
Overall, The Sleepwalker is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the complexities of the human mind. It's a must-read for fans of the genre.
Thank you to Ian Blackwood and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy.
The medical aspects of Ellie's condition were particularly intriguing. The detailed descriptions of her sleepwalking episodes and the subsequent consequences added a layer of authenticity to the narrative. It was evident that Blackwood did his research, and it paid off.
The structure of the book, with its interspersed flashback chapters, was masterfully done. Each flashback peeled back another layer of the mystery, keeping me guessing about whose memories I was delving into. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist would make me second-guess everything.
Ellie's descent into uncertainty was palpable. There were moments where I genuinely couldn't tell if an event was a dream or reality, mirroring Ellie's own confusion. This immersive experience made the story all the more compelling.
As for the twist—while some might find it predictable, I appreciated the seeds of doubt planted throughout the narrative. It wasn't just about the twist itself but how it was executed. And let's talk about her husband... not winning any 'Husband of the Year' awards, that's for sure.
Overall, The Sleepwalker is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the complexities of the human mind. It's a must-read for fans of the genre.
Thank you to Ian Blackwood and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy.
April 29, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced review copy.
Okay so this book…I devoured it in about 12 hours. It’s an easy read but I feel like I went back and forth on liking the plot…..and the MC.
The Sleepwalker follows Dr Ellie Thompson as she deals with depression, anxiety, nightmares, and sleepwalking. As she progresses through the story she begins to question her own sanity. She feels her nightmares are being acted out in her real life, leading her to wonder if she’s still asleep or just crazy?!
Sometimes, the story had the vibe of those poorly written horror flicks, where the main character is running headfirst into danger and you wanna scream, “Don’t open that door!” or “Do not take that eerie alleyway!”
While Ellie is anxious about her sleepwalking and nightmares becoming real, she insists on continuing to put herself in situations where she is alone. Why do this to yourself?? if you think you’re in danger, or maybe a danger to yourself or someone else, wouldn’t you want to be in the company of someone you trust at all times?
I was never a fan of her husband Nick, and it eventually made sense why he seemed like an uncaring, creepy liar.
Overall, the storyline played out nicely. And the ending wrapped up the plot with no loose ends. I did enjoy the author’s writing style and she did have me stomped on who the villain was. I just wish the characterization had been better.
Okay so this book…I devoured it in about 12 hours. It’s an easy read but I feel like I went back and forth on liking the plot…..and the MC.
The Sleepwalker follows Dr Ellie Thompson as she deals with depression, anxiety, nightmares, and sleepwalking. As she progresses through the story she begins to question her own sanity. She feels her nightmares are being acted out in her real life, leading her to wonder if she’s still asleep or just crazy?!
Sometimes, the story had the vibe of those poorly written horror flicks, where the main character is running headfirst into danger and you wanna scream, “Don’t open that door!” or “Do not take that eerie alleyway!”
While Ellie is anxious about her sleepwalking and nightmares becoming real, she insists on continuing to put herself in situations where she is alone. Why do this to yourself?? if you think you’re in danger, or maybe a danger to yourself or someone else, wouldn’t you want to be in the company of someone you trust at all times?
I was never a fan of her husband Nick, and it eventually made sense why he seemed like an uncaring, creepy liar.
Overall, the storyline played out nicely. And the ending wrapped up the plot with no loose ends. I did enjoy the author’s writing style and she did have me stomped on who the villain was. I just wish the characterization had been better.
November 27, 2025
This was a good 3.5 ⭐️ read. I think if you have read books by Freida before the twists in this may be predictable.
However! This was a very anxious and thrilling read throughout and nail biting at times. One of the twists I did predict half way through but it was nice that the second twist I didn’t predict and it made the ending for me.
It is a good quick thriller read for those that like Freida as their writing is similar.
Ellie, doctor and her partner Nick. Ellie has been having bad nightmares that have led to sleepwalking. Ellie actually doesn’t know when she is awake to when she is dreaming. She spoke to her friends, saw a psychiatrist, believed she was being stalked and even had a sleep study, but no matter what she did, she still continued with the nightmares and they became more dangerous. When one day she wakes up on top of Nick holding a knife to his throat she knows she needs help and has to get everything under control. However, her life becomes more dangerous, she begins to trust people less and less and slowly begins to feel like she is on her own, even the police think she is crazy. All she needed was the one death, of Natasha, to bring true her nightmares and theories.
This was a good read. Not a groundbreaking thriller that I will remember but a good top up on my reading goal for this year.
However! This was a very anxious and thrilling read throughout and nail biting at times. One of the twists I did predict half way through but it was nice that the second twist I didn’t predict and it made the ending for me.
It is a good quick thriller read for those that like Freida as their writing is similar.
Ellie, doctor and her partner Nick. Ellie has been having bad nightmares that have led to sleepwalking. Ellie actually doesn’t know when she is awake to when she is dreaming. She spoke to her friends, saw a psychiatrist, believed she was being stalked and even had a sleep study, but no matter what she did, she still continued with the nightmares and they became more dangerous. When one day she wakes up on top of Nick holding a knife to his throat she knows she needs help and has to get everything under control. However, her life becomes more dangerous, she begins to trust people less and less and slowly begins to feel like she is on her own, even the police think she is crazy. All she needed was the one death, of Natasha, to bring true her nightmares and theories.
This was a good read. Not a groundbreaking thriller that I will remember but a good top up on my reading goal for this year.
April 23, 2025
Dr. Ellie Thompson has always been haunted by her nightmares but now they are blurring into reality. She wakens to find there really is glass in her foot and a knife under her pillow. How did they get there? What is she doing in her sleep?
She swore someone was following her, she really did recieve that threatening phone call, but why is there no evidence of them? Is someone doing this to her? Has someone deleated the messages?
When Ellie finds it harder to tell what's real and what's a nightmare she starts to suspect everyone around her. Who can she trust? As she finally comes closer to the truth what she's about to discover is more terrifying than any of her nightmares....
I honestly loved this book, it's one of the best psychological thrillers I have read. I couldn't put it down, I was gutted when I had to eventually go to sleep🤣 It's a constant page turner from start to finish and the twists!! Done so perfectly, you'll never see what's coming, it was really well written. I loved Ellie's character, the book puts you through a rollercoaster of emotions and it's a total mind f***
This is why this genre is my favourite. Just love a good psychological thriller and Ian nailed this. This book will be released on the 18th May. I definitely recommend adding this to your tbr
She swore someone was following her, she really did recieve that threatening phone call, but why is there no evidence of them? Is someone doing this to her? Has someone deleated the messages?
When Ellie finds it harder to tell what's real and what's a nightmare she starts to suspect everyone around her. Who can she trust? As she finally comes closer to the truth what she's about to discover is more terrifying than any of her nightmares....
I honestly loved this book, it's one of the best psychological thrillers I have read. I couldn't put it down, I was gutted when I had to eventually go to sleep🤣 It's a constant page turner from start to finish and the twists!! Done so perfectly, you'll never see what's coming, it was really well written. I loved Ellie's character, the book puts you through a rollercoaster of emotions and it's a total mind f***
This is why this genre is my favourite. Just love a good psychological thriller and Ian nailed this. This book will be released on the 18th May. I definitely recommend adding this to your tbr
Read
May 16, 2025Wow this book had me going all of the way through the book. So many twists and turns that I got dizzy. At one point I thought Ellie was losing her mind too. And then I felt sorry for her not knowing who was doing this too her.
I can understand the sleepwalking because I did it as a child and my grand daughter sleepwalks now and she is a teenager. I never broke anything or slept with a knife under my pillow but my mother did find me on the front porch one time. Who could be so heartless as to put Dr. Ellie Thompson through all of this hell. She is questioning her sanity and finally goes to a psychiatrist and he seems to really help her for a short time. It is getting to the point that she is afraid to go to sleep at night. But she is a surgeon and she can not work on no sleep, that would not be safe to her or the patient. Her best friend Penny is a scrub nurse and spends a lot of time trying to help her solve this mystery.
Her husband is always out of town or working late so she is getting to the point where she can not depend on her. No one really knows how bad this problem is and I hope to solve the mystery of who is doing all of this to me before it is too late.
I can understand the sleepwalking because I did it as a child and my grand daughter sleepwalks now and she is a teenager. I never broke anything or slept with a knife under my pillow but my mother did find me on the front porch one time. Who could be so heartless as to put Dr. Ellie Thompson through all of this hell. She is questioning her sanity and finally goes to a psychiatrist and he seems to really help her for a short time. It is getting to the point that she is afraid to go to sleep at night. But she is a surgeon and she can not work on no sleep, that would not be safe to her or the patient. Her best friend Penny is a scrub nurse and spends a lot of time trying to help her solve this mystery.
Her husband is always out of town or working late so she is getting to the point where she can not depend on her. No one really knows how bad this problem is and I hope to solve the mystery of who is doing all of this to me before it is too late.
May 19, 2025
Okay, this book messed with my head—in the best way. Imagine waking up with glass in your foot and a knife under your pillow…and no clue how they got there. Welcome to Ellie’s life. She’s a doctor by day, haunted by nightmares by night—and now those nightmares are leaking into her real life like a full-blown horror show.
The pacing? Chef’s kiss. No slow burns here—this one hits the gas and stays there. Ian Blackwood’s writing is sharp, eerie, and just twisty enough to make you question your own reality. Every chapter had me yelling, “WHAT is happening?!” (In a good way.)
Ellie is such a compelling character. You root for her, you doubt her, and you definitely side-eye everyone she comes in contact with. The tension builds with every interaction, every weird clue, every moment you wonder, “Is she losing it, or is someone seriously playing her?”
This is one of those psychological thrillers that gets under your skin and stays there. Buckle up, because The Sleepwalker will have you second-guessing everything—including your own dreams.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The pacing? Chef’s kiss. No slow burns here—this one hits the gas and stays there. Ian Blackwood’s writing is sharp, eerie, and just twisty enough to make you question your own reality. Every chapter had me yelling, “WHAT is happening?!” (In a good way.)
Ellie is such a compelling character. You root for her, you doubt her, and you definitely side-eye everyone she comes in contact with. The tension builds with every interaction, every weird clue, every moment you wonder, “Is she losing it, or is someone seriously playing her?”
This is one of those psychological thrillers that gets under your skin and stays there. Buckle up, because The Sleepwalker will have you second-guessing everything—including your own dreams.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2025
Fast, Enjoyable Read, I Wanted to Love This, But It Gave Too Much Away
Borrowed using Kindle Unlimited. This review reflects my own honest experience.
I really wanted to like this book and honestly, I did enjoy a lot of it. The pacing is solid. The writing is clean. The premise pulled me in quickly. Ian Blackwood’s background in radio and television is clear. He knows how to move a story forward and keep things tight.
But I also picked up on everything the story was trying to do because it made sure I didn’t miss it.
Without giving anything away, I’ll just say this. I figured things out earlier than I think the author intended. The suspense didn’t build for me. It was handed over too directly. I wasn’t second-guessing because of clever misdirection. I was second-guessing because the narrative kept throwing so many signals at me, it left little room for curiosity.
That said, I did keep reading. And I don’t regret it.
It’s a fast-paced read with familiar beats. Something you might enjoy if you’re in the mood for a psychological thriller that doesn’t try too hard to be subtle.
Borrowed using Kindle Unlimited. This review reflects my own honest experience.
I really wanted to like this book and honestly, I did enjoy a lot of it. The pacing is solid. The writing is clean. The premise pulled me in quickly. Ian Blackwood’s background in radio and television is clear. He knows how to move a story forward and keep things tight.
But I also picked up on everything the story was trying to do because it made sure I didn’t miss it.
Without giving anything away, I’ll just say this. I figured things out earlier than I think the author intended. The suspense didn’t build for me. It was handed over too directly. I wasn’t second-guessing because of clever misdirection. I was second-guessing because the narrative kept throwing so many signals at me, it left little room for curiosity.
That said, I did keep reading. And I don’t regret it.
It’s a fast-paced read with familiar beats. Something you might enjoy if you’re in the mood for a psychological thriller that doesn’t try too hard to be subtle.
May 7, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book.
The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood is a psychological thriller set around Dr Ellie Thompson. Dr. Ellie Thompson is plagued by nightmares that seem to be crossing into reality. She experiences disturbing incidents—glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow, threatening messages that disappear—leading her to question whether she is sleepwalking or being manipulated. As Ellie begins to suspect everyone around her—including her distant husband, obsessive ex, and psychiatrist—she fights to uncover whether her fears originate from her mind or an external force. The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood explores several psychological themes that drive its suspenseful story such as reality vs illusion, paranoia and trust issues, psychological manipulation, fear and trauma as well as the unconscious mind.
This is a good read and keeps you interested all the way through. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a suspenseful read it wont disappoint.
The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood is a psychological thriller set around Dr Ellie Thompson. Dr. Ellie Thompson is plagued by nightmares that seem to be crossing into reality. She experiences disturbing incidents—glass in her foot, a knife under her pillow, threatening messages that disappear—leading her to question whether she is sleepwalking or being manipulated. As Ellie begins to suspect everyone around her—including her distant husband, obsessive ex, and psychiatrist—she fights to uncover whether her fears originate from her mind or an external force. The Sleepwalker by Ian Blackwood explores several psychological themes that drive its suspenseful story such as reality vs illusion, paranoia and trust issues, psychological manipulation, fear and trauma as well as the unconscious mind.
This is a good read and keeps you interested all the way through. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a suspenseful read it wont disappoint.
Read
May 6, 2025I really wanted to love this book. Based on the summary, I was immediately interested, but it was a DNF for me. I tried a few times to get back into it, and just couldn’t get past the writing.
I thought the premise was very interesting via the summary, unfortunately, for me, it ended up falling short. The writing, to me, felt very juvenile. Everything seemed very surface level—characters, setting, etc. I love a story where I feel immersed in a world and the story, but I could not get there, and eventually gave up altogether.
I was really looking forward to this one, too, because again, the premise seemed promising and interesting, which is what makes it disappointing. I know the author put much time and work into this, which I appreciate, but ultimately, I cannot recommend based on what I thought. This is the first book I’ve DNFed in 2025.
Nevertheless, thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this eARC.
I thought the premise was very interesting via the summary, unfortunately, for me, it ended up falling short. The writing, to me, felt very juvenile. Everything seemed very surface level—characters, setting, etc. I love a story where I feel immersed in a world and the story, but I could not get there, and eventually gave up altogether.
I was really looking forward to this one, too, because again, the premise seemed promising and interesting, which is what makes it disappointing. I know the author put much time and work into this, which I appreciate, but ultimately, I cannot recommend based on what I thought. This is the first book I’ve DNFed in 2025.
Nevertheless, thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for this eARC.
May 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5 stars rounded up
The premise of this book hooked me from the start - Dr. Ellie Thompson suffers from terrifying nightmares that she can’t distinguish from reality, especially when those nightmares appear to be happening in real life. Is she slowly losing her mind, or are these real-life nightmares the product of someone out to get her?
I enjoyed following along with Ellie and trying to figure out what was real and what wasn’t, however I did feel that the nightmares became repetitive as the book went along. I also found the plot twist and reveal to be a bit predictable, and the book wrapped up much quicker at the end than the rest of the book’s pacing. I had some issues with the author’s writing style as well, but despite this, the book was a page-turner I couldn’t put down and would recommend it for anyone looking for a fast-paced psychological thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book.
The premise of this book hooked me from the start - Dr. Ellie Thompson suffers from terrifying nightmares that she can’t distinguish from reality, especially when those nightmares appear to be happening in real life. Is she slowly losing her mind, or are these real-life nightmares the product of someone out to get her?
I enjoyed following along with Ellie and trying to figure out what was real and what wasn’t, however I did feel that the nightmares became repetitive as the book went along. I also found the plot twist and reveal to be a bit predictable, and the book wrapped up much quicker at the end than the rest of the book’s pacing. I had some issues with the author’s writing style as well, but despite this, the book was a page-turner I couldn’t put down and would recommend it for anyone looking for a fast-paced psychological thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book.
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