Purging of Paradise

by G.D. Stickles

Nestled against the sun-drenched shores of Oahu, where paradise seems eternal, a dark force looms beneath the idyllic surface. A string of gruesome murders disrupts the serene landscape, leaving the island's residents in fear and chaos. At the heart of it all is Eric Wakefield, a washed-up ex-cop turned private investigator, battling his own demons of regret and addiction. When a chilling voice on the other end of the line taunts him, Eric is drawn into a twisted game of cat and mouse, one where the stakes are life and death.
With each cryptic clue, Eric must race against time to uncover the killer's identity before another innocent life is claimed. But as the clues lead him deeper into the island's shadowy corners, Eric realizes the price of justice might be more than he can bear.
Dive into a relentless thriller where paradise meets peril, and nothing is as it seems.

274 pages, Paperback

Published July 31, 2025

Reviews

[Devon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What a book. Saw it on the "local authors" shelf at the Indigo store at Square One in Mississauga. I don't usually buy authors I've never heard of before. Glad I did. This books got something for everyone. I like mysteries and this book didn't disappoint. I love Wakefield...the character is kind of cocky but deep down likeable and his heart seems to be in the right place. Good supporting characters too. This book is like watching a tv show unfold. Fast paced, and kept me wanting to keep reading it. I read it in two nights. I hope the author writes another and keeps the same characters. I can see this being a series. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this book.

[Traci Wayen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's an absolutely gripping thriller! I was hooked from the very first page and couldn’t put it down. The author captures the beauty of Oahu while skillfully weaving in a dark, chilling undercurrent that keeps you on edge the entire time. Eric Wakefield is such a complex, broken, and relatable protagonist that you feel every ounce of his guilt, fear, and determination. The mystery unfolds perfectly, with every clue leading to a new wave of tension. It’s fast paced, emotional, and beautifully written. A must read for anyone who loves crime thrillers with real heart.

[Poskana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterpiece of atmosphere and suspense. The contrast between paradise and horror is breathtaking. The writing makes you feel the salty air and hear the waves while shivering from the darkness lurking beneath. Eric Wakefield is one of the most human detectives I’ve ever read: flawed, haunted, but deeply driven. The plot twists are sharp, the pacing flawless, and the ending left me stunned. If you’re looking for a thriller that gets under your skin and won’t let go, this is it. Five stars all the way!

[Patrick McLeod-Surrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

On a recent trip to Indigo at Bay & Bloor in Toronto, I happened upon a book signing for new author G.D. Stickles and his debut thriller, Purging of Paradise. Stickles was approachable, friendly, and clearly proud of his work. I decided to take a chance and buy his book—and I’m so glad I did.

G.D. Stickles is a refreshing new voice in the thriller genre. As I turned the pages, I found myself thinking about how much careful planning must have gone into the story. The character development plays a major role, and Stickles handles it exceptionally well. This is not your typical run-of-the-mill thriller; he skillfully weaves humor, romance, and even a touch of existential insight into the suspenseful narrative.

As someone who enjoys detective shows—Law & Order being a personal favorite—I thoroughly appreciated the plot twists and the clever sprinkling of clues throughout the story. I have to admit, I suspected the ending about halfway through, but that didn’t diminish my enjoyment in the least.

I believe Purging of Paradise will appeal not only to thriller enthusiasts but also to readers who simply enjoy a well-crafted, character-driven story. I’ll be watching for G.D. Stickles’ next book with anticipation, eager to see how he transitions his main character, Eric Wakefield, from this case to the next. Now that I’m familiar with Wakefield, I look forward to following his continued evolution in future installments.

[Jourdan Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

From the sun-drenched shores of O’ahu into its darkest, most hidden corners, Purging of Paradise surprised me in the best ways. G.D. Stickles has created a gripping thriller that juxtaposes paradise and peril so vividly that I felt the heat of the sun and the chill of fear in the same breath.
pegasuspublishers.com

Eric Wakefield — a once-cop turned private investigator — is haunted by past mistakes, addiction, and an island full of secrets. His journey is raw, real, and full of heart. I loved how Stickles didn’t just chase the next clue; he pulled me into the emotional cost of justice in a place where beauty masks danger.


The pacing is relentless and immersive. Each twist made me lean forward, each quiet moment held tension. And the setting — where waves crash, sun glints off palm fronds, and darkness lingers under the surface — kept me invested well past bedtime.

Thank you, G.D., for a thrilling ride that is both breathtaking and thoughtful. Purging of Paradise will now sit on my “recommended thrillers” list — and I’ll be looking forward to your next story without hesitation.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Purging of Paradise is a compelling, well-written and detailed must-read! I fell into the setting immediately - the sunny beaches, searing heat, and palm trees of Hawaii clashing with the boisterous clamour of nightclubs, busy streets, business and crime. The imperfect but lovable main character Eric Wakefield was believable to a T! I couldn't put this book down until the mystery of a serial killer on the loose in paradise was solved.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A promising beginning by a new Canadian author. Purging of Paradise is a fast-paced thriller set in Hawaii featuring Eric Wakefield, a flawed character with spunk and determination. A very enjoyable read!