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Original Sin
A secret, hidden inside a lie, concealed behind a deception.
Twin eight-year-old brothers Devin and Archie Milner are staying with their grandmother for the weekend on the remote West Pennine Moors. They are beyond excited. Being there is always such a brilliant adventure, and this time it’s going to be even better. They’ve been allowed to camp out on their own. After all, they’re big boys now, they’re miles from anywhere, far from danger, perfectly safe…
So, when Devin is snatched in the middle of night, the family and the local community are left stunned and too terrified to even contemplate the abductor’s motives.
It’s the first case for newly qualified detective Riley Strickland. Affected by a rare form of OCD, and with the investigation raking up his own personal demons, Riley senses that there is something else going on at the dark heart of the abduction.
To get to a truth that has been hidden away for decades, he must face down prejudice, challenge police negligence and overcome deception at every turn.
But someone out there is determined to keep all the secrets buried.
And time is running out for Devin Milner.
PRAISE FOR ORIGINAL SIN
"What impressed about Original Sin wasn’t so much that it was an extremely well-written crime novel, but that it was a debut novel from someone who clearly knows how to keep me turning the page.
Right from the start, and all the way through, this gripping, sinister, police procedural of child kidnapping, retribution and dark family secrets had me hooked – and it didn’t let go until the breath-taking finale.
I read it in two sittings, separated only by enforced sleep. I sincerely hope new author Wayne Silver has more crime writing up his sleeve."
Bryce Main, author of 'A Time for Dying' and 'A House for Monsters'
"Wayne Silver masterfully builds an atmosphere of dread, weaving in hidden family secrets that deepen the mystery. The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding layers to the suspense. The plot twists relentlessly, keeping you on the edge of your seat until we reach the shocking conclusion. It took my breath away!"
Book Sirens Reviewer
"Despite Riley’s traumatic past, and the horror of the kidnap of an eight year-old boy, this is a heartwarming book to curl up with in your favourite chair - even if it does have you sitting on the edge of it at times ... Hard to describe how a crime novel is beautiful - I can only tell you that it is."
Book Club Reviewer
"This murder mystery is more than your average police procedural ... the story delivers a 360 degree view of the motivations and thoughts of those involved in the abduction of Devin, and the author fleshes out their lives so they go straight to the reader's heart. The plot is complex and keeps you guessing to the last chapter ... I enjoyed this novel immensely and recommend it to anyone who enjoys twisty-turny murder mysteries."
Justine Gilbert, author of Montecatini
"A fantastic read, I was hooked from beginning to end and I had to keep turning the pages in anticipation of what was unfolding ... I loved it."
Book Sirens Reviewer
Twin eight-year-old brothers Devin and Archie Milner are staying with their grandmother for the weekend on the remote West Pennine Moors. They are beyond excited. Being there is always such a brilliant adventure, and this time it’s going to be even better. They’ve been allowed to camp out on their own. After all, they’re big boys now, they’re miles from anywhere, far from danger, perfectly safe…
So, when Devin is snatched in the middle of night, the family and the local community are left stunned and too terrified to even contemplate the abductor’s motives.
It’s the first case for newly qualified detective Riley Strickland. Affected by a rare form of OCD, and with the investigation raking up his own personal demons, Riley senses that there is something else going on at the dark heart of the abduction.
To get to a truth that has been hidden away for decades, he must face down prejudice, challenge police negligence and overcome deception at every turn.
But someone out there is determined to keep all the secrets buried.
And time is running out for Devin Milner.
PRAISE FOR ORIGINAL SIN
"What impressed about Original Sin wasn’t so much that it was an extremely well-written crime novel, but that it was a debut novel from someone who clearly knows how to keep me turning the page.
Right from the start, and all the way through, this gripping, sinister, police procedural of child kidnapping, retribution and dark family secrets had me hooked – and it didn’t let go until the breath-taking finale.
I read it in two sittings, separated only by enforced sleep. I sincerely hope new author Wayne Silver has more crime writing up his sleeve."
Bryce Main, author of 'A Time for Dying' and 'A House for Monsters'
"Wayne Silver masterfully builds an atmosphere of dread, weaving in hidden family secrets that deepen the mystery. The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding layers to the suspense. The plot twists relentlessly, keeping you on the edge of your seat until we reach the shocking conclusion. It took my breath away!"
Book Sirens Reviewer
"Despite Riley’s traumatic past, and the horror of the kidnap of an eight year-old boy, this is a heartwarming book to curl up with in your favourite chair - even if it does have you sitting on the edge of it at times ... Hard to describe how a crime novel is beautiful - I can only tell you that it is."
Book Club Reviewer
"This murder mystery is more than your average police procedural ... the story delivers a 360 degree view of the motivations and thoughts of those involved in the abduction of Devin, and the author fleshes out their lives so they go straight to the reader's heart. The plot is complex and keeps you guessing to the last chapter ... I enjoyed this novel immensely and recommend it to anyone who enjoys twisty-turny murder mysteries."
Justine Gilbert, author of Montecatini
"A fantastic read, I was hooked from beginning to end and I had to keep turning the pages in anticipation of what was unfolding ... I loved it."
Book Sirens Reviewer
- GenresMystery
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2025
1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 9, 2025
I had the chance to read an advance copy of Original Sin by Wayne Silver, and I was thoroughly impressed. From the very first chapter, the story hooked me with its fast-paced narrative and compelling twists. It’s one of those books that’s hard to put down—I found myself constantly wanting to read just one more chapter to find out what would happen next!
The characters were well thought out and engaging. I enjoyed getting to know each of them, and I appreciated how distinct and real they felt. Personally, I found some of the subject matter—(particularly the storyline involving the twins) was quite harrowing. I have 3 year old twin boys and certain parts really affected me. However, it was very well written and Silver doesn’t shy away from the emotional intensity of these moments.
What stood out most to me was the balance between action and emotion. While the plot moves at a brisk pace, there’s enough time spent on character development and emotional stakes that it never feels superficial.
Overall, Original Sin is a gripping debut that blends suspense, emotional complexity, and memorable characters. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy fast-moving thrillers with real emotional weight. Just be prepared for some intense moments along the way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were well thought out and engaging. I enjoyed getting to know each of them, and I appreciated how distinct and real they felt. Personally, I found some of the subject matter—(particularly the storyline involving the twins) was quite harrowing. I have 3 year old twin boys and certain parts really affected me. However, it was very well written and Silver doesn’t shy away from the emotional intensity of these moments.
What stood out most to me was the balance between action and emotion. While the plot moves at a brisk pace, there’s enough time spent on character development and emotional stakes that it never feels superficial.
Overall, Original Sin is a gripping debut that blends suspense, emotional complexity, and memorable characters. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy fast-moving thrillers with real emotional weight. Just be prepared for some intense moments along the way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 28, 2025
I'd give it 10 stars if I could!
This debut thriller grabs you and doesn't let go until the end. Devin, a seemingly ordinary boy from a loving family, disappears, plunging Detectives Riley and Tina into a frantic search. Riley is a fantastic character with his own little foibles and I can't wait to read more about him and the ever patient Tina.
Wayne Silver masterfully builds an atmosphere of dread, weaving in hidden family secrets that deepen the mystery. The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding layers to the suspense. The plot twists relentlessly, keeping you on the edge of your seat until we reach the shocking conclusion. It took my breath away!
A brilliant debut. I hope Book 2 is coming soon!
This debut thriller grabs you and doesn't let go until the end. Devin, a seemingly ordinary boy from a loving family, disappears, plunging Detectives Riley and Tina into a frantic search. Riley is a fantastic character with his own little foibles and I can't wait to read more about him and the ever patient Tina.
Wayne Silver masterfully builds an atmosphere of dread, weaving in hidden family secrets that deepen the mystery. The characters are richly drawn, their complexities adding layers to the suspense. The plot twists relentlessly, keeping you on the edge of your seat until we reach the shocking conclusion. It took my breath away!
A brilliant debut. I hope Book 2 is coming soon!
May 30, 2025
Wow this book had me hooked from the first chapter. It was a quiet the journey Following Riley He is new to the police force but bloody good at his job. I love his character so much. Ialso love his his friendship with Tin his colleague who helps him not only on this case but to also adress the demons of his past. It is a gripping read where I felt soooo many emotions I shouted Noooooo at one point of the story and had to pause to process and then carry on with the book. It was a book I got lost in . I love books that I can read and 1 min its light outside then the next thing its dark out! This book did that for me ! It does cover heavy subjects matter but its so very well written. I look forward to reading more from this epic writer in the future. The last 2 chapters had me in my feels. If you love thrillers and crime stories this books for you. I highly recommend it .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2025
Original Sin had me hooked from page one. Twin boys. A remote moor. A terrifying disappearance. The atmosphere? Thick enough to cut with a knife. Wayne Silver paints the West Pennine Moors with eerie beauty and dread, and rookie detective Riley Strickland is a standout—flawed, human, and heartbreakingly real. His OCD isn’t just a character trait; it shapes the case in bold, raw ways I really appreciated.
The tension builds like fog on the moor—slow, creeping, and chilling. I loved the emotional depth, the secrets, the sense of legacy and buried truths. BUT—there were a few moments where things got a little twist-heavy and I had to backtrack to keep up. Just a smidge too much tangled thread in an otherwise strong, suspenseful weave.
Still, this book delivered real emotion, solid mystery, and a gripping pace that had me flipping pages late into the night.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A dark, thoughtful thriller that knows how to keep you guessing—and feeling—until the final reveal. Wayne Silver is one to watch.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The tension builds like fog on the moor—slow, creeping, and chilling. I loved the emotional depth, the secrets, the sense of legacy and buried truths. BUT—there were a few moments where things got a little twist-heavy and I had to backtrack to keep up. Just a smidge too much tangled thread in an otherwise strong, suspenseful weave.
Still, this book delivered real emotion, solid mystery, and a gripping pace that had me flipping pages late into the night.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A dark, thoughtful thriller that knows how to keep you guessing—and feeling—until the final reveal. Wayne Silver is one to watch.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2025
4 stars
A young boy is kidnapped from his grandmother's house late one evening and it turns the community on its head. The police have very little to go on, and time is running out if they hope to bring him back alive and unharmed. With plenty of deception and old secrets looking to be brought to light, as well as a healthy dose of police incompetence, who knows where the chips will fall.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have to admit it took me a bit of time to get into the book, but after about a quarter of the way through the story really seemed to pick up and I was intrigued. I didn't actually figure out the ending beforehand, which is always fun because I like to speculate throughout as I'm reading and several of the twists were ones I didn't anticipate. Overall, I think it's one I'd recommend for a read.
A young boy is kidnapped from his grandmother's house late one evening and it turns the community on its head. The police have very little to go on, and time is running out if they hope to bring him back alive and unharmed. With plenty of deception and old secrets looking to be brought to light, as well as a healthy dose of police incompetence, who knows where the chips will fall.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have to admit it took me a bit of time to get into the book, but after about a quarter of the way through the story really seemed to pick up and I was intrigued. I didn't actually figure out the ending beforehand, which is always fun because I like to speculate throughout as I'm reading and several of the twists were ones I didn't anticipate. Overall, I think it's one I'd recommend for a read.
June 11, 2025
I do not know where to start with this. I'm flummoxed at to say. I knew in the back of my mind kind of how this was going to go. Hines was …. obvious. But the other. The more I got into it, the more clear other stuff became. But the journey. My goodness. It's a dang good book. If you have triggers….be aware. If not, you won't be able to put it down. The way this was written, you can't help but dive deep. I absolutely loved Riley's character. Every single bit, good or bad. And Tina. I think the only thing I could….for lack of a better word, complain… about would be I really wish Horton would have had to pay for what he did. I hope somewhere down the line Riley & Tina have another story. They make a good team
June 3, 2025
⭐ 4 out of 5 stars
Original Sin is a dark, twisty mystery with a strong story and vivid, memorable characters. The plot is full of surprises, and the atmosphere pulls you in right away. I especially enjoyed the way the mystery unfolded—it kept me guessing.
The detective's personal struggles with OCD and trauma added depth, though I didn’t fully connect with that aspect. Still, it’s a well-crafted psychological crime novel that’s worth reading.
Highly recommended for fans of gritty mysteries and psychological thrillers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Original Sin is a dark, twisty mystery with a strong story and vivid, memorable characters. The plot is full of surprises, and the atmosphere pulls you in right away. I especially enjoyed the way the mystery unfolded—it kept me guessing.
The detective's personal struggles with OCD and trauma added depth, though I didn’t fully connect with that aspect. Still, it’s a well-crafted psychological crime novel that’s worth reading.
Highly recommended for fans of gritty mysteries and psychological thrillers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 14, 2025
Two time periods, 1977 and present. Short chapters, with several twists throughout the story. Dark story with trigger warning. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star, because there were a lot of characters with their own back stories, so it was difficult to follow.
Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC, and I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC, and I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.
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June 13, 2025 Riley Strickland is a detective who is trying to find a missing boy. Riley also has a rare form of OCD that can be very helpful in solving cases or not. But this case hits close to home for Riley, something from his past. A past that is not going to go away until it is in the light of day. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
July 30, 2025
Original Sin gripped me from the very first page. The setting on the moors felt so vivid and haunting, I could almost feel the cold air. Riley Strickland’s vulnerability made me root for him even harder as he navigated the dark, twisted secrets surrounding Devin’s abduction. The ending left me stunned. One of the best crime debuts I’ve read in a long time
August 11, 2025
Excellent debut novel. Very compelling read with all the right twists in the storyline.
Looking forward to further publication from this author.
Looking forward to further publication from this author.
May 24, 2025
Review of eBook
Eight-year-old twins Archie and Devin Milner are spending the weekend with their grandmother, Joy Hillard, at Whetstone Farm. The boys are excited . . . they’re going to sleep in tents in Nana’s back yard.
Neither they nor they father, Robert, had any idea they were being watched.
When the boys sneak into the barn to check on the pregnant barn cat, Lily, they discover a strange man there. He tells the boys he is a veterinarian, here to take care of Lily.
And then Devin is gone.
=========
Told mainly in two time periods . . . the present and 1977 . . . the evolving narrative provides the necessary backstory for readers to understand the present events. There’s a darkness in the telling of this tale, a mournful sense of the inevitable in the unchangeable past.
There’s an undercurrent of unpredictability, an apprehension that raises readers’ hackles and give the unfolding narrative an unsettledness that portends the slowly-unfolding truth.
Short chapters make this gruesome tale a quick, albeit difficult, read. Readers should be aware of the basic storyline before reading the book. Yes, there are several topics here that carry trigger warnings, but the repeated child abuse included here is a particularly difficult topic.
The author has an annoying tendency to use a particularly offensive expletive that is sure to offend many readers. Its inclusion in an otherwise well-written narrative does not advance the plot nor does it add anything to the telling of the tale. As a result, the rating for this book is lowered.
Four stars for the author’s writing ability; unfortunately, this is not a book that I can recommend to other readers.
I received a free advance review copy of this book through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eight-year-old twins Archie and Devin Milner are spending the weekend with their grandmother, Joy Hillard, at Whetstone Farm. The boys are excited . . . they’re going to sleep in tents in Nana’s back yard.
Neither they nor they father, Robert, had any idea they were being watched.
When the boys sneak into the barn to check on the pregnant barn cat, Lily, they discover a strange man there. He tells the boys he is a veterinarian, here to take care of Lily.
And then Devin is gone.
=========
Told mainly in two time periods . . . the present and 1977 . . . the evolving narrative provides the necessary backstory for readers to understand the present events. There’s a darkness in the telling of this tale, a mournful sense of the inevitable in the unchangeable past.
There’s an undercurrent of unpredictability, an apprehension that raises readers’ hackles and give the unfolding narrative an unsettledness that portends the slowly-unfolding truth.
Short chapters make this gruesome tale a quick, albeit difficult, read. Readers should be aware of the basic storyline before reading the book. Yes, there are several topics here that carry trigger warnings, but the repeated child abuse included here is a particularly difficult topic.
The author has an annoying tendency to use a particularly offensive expletive that is sure to offend many readers. Its inclusion in an otherwise well-written narrative does not advance the plot nor does it add anything to the telling of the tale. As a result, the rating for this book is lowered.
Four stars for the author’s writing ability; unfortunately, this is not a book that I can recommend to other readers.
I received a free advance review copy of this book through BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 30, 2025
Original Sin is a twisted, deep, heart-wrenching psychological thriller/police procedural that introduces the reader to new detective Riley Strickland. Riley has a bit of OCD (which is becoming common in detective stories), but it seems to help him pay attention to the details of his case. The story grabs the reader on the first page and only tightens its grip as the story unfolds. It is one of those books that I found difficult to put down, and when I had to, I couldn't wait to get back to it. The characters are realistic and relatable; the plot is twisted, with unexpected revelations. Although I had a few suspicions about one of the characters, they were not enough to be completely sure about the outcome. Also, don't be surprised if you find yourself tearing up at times. Mr. Silver knows how to use his words to touch his readers' hearts. I hope Mr. Silver plans to make this a long-running series because I thoroughly enjoyed my time with PC Strickland and company. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
June 29, 2025
Received free advanced copy through BOOKSIRENS.
A good story, of self worries, how it can affect our lives for years. Storyline was good but a little long, but it does play out in the end, just shows how real life situations can bleed into jobs, and family. Never underestimate family, some are the good guys some are the bad guys, think you know someone and bam, their pasts come back to bite them and maybe their entire innocent family.
I can normally read a book pretty quick, but did find myself pushing through this one. Which is unusual for me. It is a goid story just a bit dragged out in some places. If like the darker side of murder mystery this would be a good read. It does hold true unfortunately of what evil does live amount us.
A good story, of self worries, how it can affect our lives for years. Storyline was good but a little long, but it does play out in the end, just shows how real life situations can bleed into jobs, and family. Never underestimate family, some are the good guys some are the bad guys, think you know someone and bam, their pasts come back to bite them and maybe their entire innocent family.
I can normally read a book pretty quick, but did find myself pushing through this one. Which is unusual for me. It is a goid story just a bit dragged out in some places. If like the darker side of murder mystery this would be a good read. It does hold true unfortunately of what evil does live amount us.
June 9, 2025
Original Sin is an engaging story about friendship, abusive relationships, sexual exploitation of endangered children, mental illness, and is also a very good police procedural. The characters are well developed (and believable) and Riley (the main one) feels like a trusted friend with his own quirks telling you a sometimes sad, sometimes happy story. It's awful how a human being can be to another and how little sometimes people do to help others. The story is beautifully written, it has a great plot, and I do hope that there'll be a second book featuring Detective Riley.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 1, 2025
This was my first foray into crime fiction and I have to say I was hooked immediately. The plot kept me guessing throughout and each character had depth which made each twist and turn hit extra hard! Also on a personal note, being from Manchester I also enjoyed the occasional nod to the city, it felt authentic without overdoing it on the Manc-ness! I thought the way Wayne handled some of the difficult topics too was done deftly, it'd be very easy to sensationalise, but I felt he revealed just enough details without making it too difficult to read, really nicely done. All round, would recommend this one to anyone!
June 9, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When a young boy is kidnapped and a fresh-faced Detective picks up the case, he is faced with many roadblocks. From the past to the present, this book covers the struggles of facing one's childhood and how it can affect your future. The pacing and lull of the story could have been a little better. The themes and the plot itself were well executed. A good book for anyone interested in a suspense-filled police procedural.
When a young boy is kidnapped and a fresh-faced Detective picks up the case, he is faced with many roadblocks. From the past to the present, this book covers the struggles of facing one's childhood and how it can affect your future. The pacing and lull of the story could have been a little better. The themes and the plot itself were well executed. A good book for anyone interested in a suspense-filled police procedural.
October 25, 2025
I was lucky enough to be bought this by a friend who has a personal connection to the author. I felt obliged to read it straight away despite being in a bit of a reading slump. All I can say is that I’m so glad I did. I have been texting her relentlessly to tell her how much I am enjoying it and can’t wait to discuss it with her.
Although dark in parts, it gripped me from the get go and I will definitely be recommending. I also love buying books for people so this may well be a go to for me from now on.
Although dark in parts, it gripped me from the get go and I will definitely be recommending. I also love buying books for people so this may well be a go to for me from now on.
December 12, 2025
I found that this book was quite interesting and held my attention. The theme was about missing children and police officers who were looking into the disappearances. There were a couple of investigations going on at the same time. The author was very detailed in his descriptions of the people and surroundings so that the reader could create a picture in their mind. It was very entertaining and a good mystery read.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free. The opinion that I express is my own.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free. The opinion that I express is my own.
June 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this, although I did find it got a little confusing towards the end, with so much detail.
Still, having reached the end, I am glad all of that detail was there. It made sense of a story which might have otherwise left me wondering about things.
It’s definitely a different approach to any crime book than I’ve read before!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Still, having reached the end, I am glad all of that detail was there. It made sense of a story which might have otherwise left me wondering about things.
It’s definitely a different approach to any crime book than I’ve read before!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2025
This one definitely got better as the story went. I enjoyed the myster and the 2 main detectives. Although I do wonder what happened to the brother. I feel like after the initial interiew, he just vanished and wasn't mentioned again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2025
This is a most impressive debut novel. I found it impossible not to like Riley, the rookie detective, who finds the kidnap of a twin strikes an echo in his own past. Riley struggles with his OCD but manages to conquer it enough to work hard in his job. The denouement brings him closer to the mystery in his own youth. A great story, with pace, tension and mystery. I loved it.
June 2, 2025
Very good love between a guy couple
June 10, 2025
This was an interesting book and kept me engaged throughout. I was impressed that this was a first book and it worked really well. I will be looking out for more by this author.
July 15, 2025
#bookreview
Original Sin
by Wayne Silver
4.25 ⭐️
I received an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book, and I am leaving a voluntary review.
I love psychological thrillers, and this one did not disappoint! I was hooked from the beginning….. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened! There were some things (side stories) that added length to the book that really didn’t add to the main story…. But they also did not distract from it.
Kidnapped child, desperate parents, deep secrets….. this novel is worth your time, AND it’s now available on Kindle Unlimited!
Original Sin
by Wayne Silver
4.25 ⭐️
I received an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book, and I am leaving a voluntary review.
I love psychological thrillers, and this one did not disappoint! I was hooked from the beginning….. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened! There were some things (side stories) that added length to the book that really didn’t add to the main story…. But they also did not distract from it.
Kidnapped child, desperate parents, deep secrets….. this novel is worth your time, AND it’s now available on Kindle Unlimited!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews