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Displacement
Displacement follows Liam Donohue, a seemingly ordinary eighteen year old boy who appears to have an enviable life. He’s just finished high school, has loving parents, and is about to start his final summer before college with his three best friends. However, there’s only one thing—he currently faces first-degree murder charges for a heinous, yet unknown crime.
Liam’s harrowing journey begins on a cool summer night in 1998, when he walks into a record store with his friends Jason, Madelyn, and Ashley. As he browses for his collection, something unexpected stops him dead in his an album featuring a menacing photo of him as a child on its cover. Horrified and confused, Liam becomes compelled to uncover how this photo ended up there—and why the sight of it fills him with an unshakable sense of dread that he cannot explain. As Liam digs deeper, he unravels a web of disturbing truths in his pursuit to learn about his past that will not only shatter his own understanding of who he is, but also the public’s.
Told through the transcript of the recorded interrogation between Liam Donohue and the detective assigned to his case, the reader must figure out for themselves whether Liam is telling impossible truths, or concealing something far more sinister.
Liam’s harrowing journey begins on a cool summer night in 1998, when he walks into a record store with his friends Jason, Madelyn, and Ashley. As he browses for his collection, something unexpected stops him dead in his an album featuring a menacing photo of him as a child on its cover. Horrified and confused, Liam becomes compelled to uncover how this photo ended up there—and why the sight of it fills him with an unshakable sense of dread that he cannot explain. As Liam digs deeper, he unravels a web of disturbing truths in his pursuit to learn about his past that will not only shatter his own understanding of who he is, but also the public’s.
Told through the transcript of the recorded interrogation between Liam Donohue and the detective assigned to his case, the reader must figure out for themselves whether Liam is telling impossible truths, or concealing something far more sinister.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2025
302 people are currently reading
3124 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
February 12, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I think I finished this book in under 24 hours - it’s SUCH a bingeable book!!
We follow our main character as he confesses to a crime & explains to the detective the details/events that led up to him walking in and doing so. He recently saw a photo of himself as a baby on the cover of a record & that creates a whole spiral in his mind of how it got there/who did it
My favorite part of this one was the structure with the interview style & uncovering the details of the mystery along with the investigator - you just wanna keep reading to see how it would all end. It was hard to trust our narrator & I do think the ending was a tad confusing, but it definitely took me by surprise
I think I finished this book in under 24 hours - it’s SUCH a bingeable book!!
We follow our main character as he confesses to a crime & explains to the detective the details/events that led up to him walking in and doing so. He recently saw a photo of himself as a baby on the cover of a record & that creates a whole spiral in his mind of how it got there/who did it
My favorite part of this one was the structure with the interview style & uncovering the details of the mystery along with the investigator - you just wanna keep reading to see how it would all end. It was hard to trust our narrator & I do think the ending was a tad confusing, but it definitely took me by surprise
February 3, 2026
Hey everyone! Author of Displacement here. I want to thank you all for taking the time to read my debut novel, and for coming to Goodreads to leave your honest opinions about it. It means a lot!
Quick fun fact about Displacement: the idea came to me when my sister asked me for help with a creative writing assignment. Her assignment was to come up with an idea for a plot to a thriller novel revolving around music. I thought about how crazy it would be if someone walked into a record store to find an album cover with their picture on it. So, that night, I started writing about it. I never thought it would have turned into a novel, but here we are!
If you enjoyed Displacement, please share with your friends, family, and whoever else you know enjoys reading! I look forward to reading all your reviews!
Quick fun fact about Displacement: the idea came to me when my sister asked me for help with a creative writing assignment. Her assignment was to come up with an idea for a plot to a thriller novel revolving around music. I thought about how crazy it would be if someone walked into a record store to find an album cover with their picture on it. So, that night, I started writing about it. I never thought it would have turned into a novel, but here we are!
If you enjoyed Displacement, please share with your friends, family, and whoever else you know enjoys reading! I look forward to reading all your reviews!
February 17, 2026
what…did I just read… I am perplexed 🥲
January 12, 2026
Displacement was such a refreshing surprise! I’ve read a lot of thrillers and this is one of the first in a while that genuinely felt different—both in its plot and in the way the story itself is told.
One of my favourite parts was the structure. The entire book is written as an interrogation transcript between Liam and the detective on his case, and it works so well. It felt immersive and tense, and had me analysing every word and inconsistency.
This is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing from start to finish. I honestly had no idea where the story was going, and there’s no way I could have predicted that ending! I flew through this book because I constantly needed to know what would be revealed next. There are lots of small clues and subtle details throughout that had me repeatedly asking, “What is actually going on here?”
I was never fully sure whether I trusted Liam as a narrator, which added so much to the suspense and made the experience feel unsettling in the best way.
I could also totally see this working as a screen adaptation — it would be fascinating to watch.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that feel fresh, immersive and will keep you guessing the entire time, I’d definitely recommend Displacement!
4.5⭐️
One of my favourite parts was the structure. The entire book is written as an interrogation transcript between Liam and the detective on his case, and it works so well. It felt immersive and tense, and had me analysing every word and inconsistency.
This is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing from start to finish. I honestly had no idea where the story was going, and there’s no way I could have predicted that ending! I flew through this book because I constantly needed to know what would be revealed next. There are lots of small clues and subtle details throughout that had me repeatedly asking, “What is actually going on here?”
I was never fully sure whether I trusted Liam as a narrator, which added so much to the suspense and made the experience feel unsettling in the best way.
I could also totally see this working as a screen adaptation — it would be fascinating to watch.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that feel fresh, immersive and will keep you guessing the entire time, I’d definitely recommend Displacement!
4.5⭐️
January 8, 2026
4.5 ⭐️'s?! I had to make a review ranting about this on tiktok because that ending has me DISTRAUGHT in the best way. this is what I want when I read a thriller!!! this definitely set the bar high for other thrillers in 2026
March 8, 2026
what a complete mindfuck??????!!!!! this book was written in crack format
February 26, 2026
Bingeable, entertaining, and thrilling. Definitely had my heart dropping multiple times. The ending was shocking but I was left with way too many questions… HOWEVER I did just find out that there is gonna be another book which makes sense!!
January 9, 2026
I'm sorry, but this was just not good. I was super intrigued by the blurb & the fact that it was written in interview form, but Liam's story telling was painfully boring. I continued on in hopes that something exciting would happen, but nothing ever did.
The ending was a convoluted mess. The concept actually held a lot of potential, but the execution only left us with more questions & absolutely no answers as to why any of this was happening.
The ending was a convoluted mess. The concept actually held a lot of potential, but the execution only left us with more questions & absolutely no answers as to why any of this was happening.
December 15, 2025
Worth the read!
I found this author in my Facebook psychological thrillers group. A bunch of us thought it sounded interesting, so I'm thinking he got a bunch of downloads, and hopefully a lot will read it. I love books that are not like anything I've read before and trust me I've read a lot of books in my lifetime. This book fit the bill, and I look forward to his next one!
I found this author in my Facebook psychological thrillers group. A bunch of us thought it sounded interesting, so I'm thinking he got a bunch of downloads, and hopefully a lot will read it. I love books that are not like anything I've read before and trust me I've read a lot of books in my lifetime. This book fit the bill, and I look forward to his next one!
January 4, 2026
As its a new author I will be gentle. To me this it as if this book was written by two different people or one person that completely lost their way. The first 80% is quite good, it is written as a police interview which is a good idea. The story is both intriguing and interesting and there is some good character development. However the book moves away from this style with it becoming more a description rather than an interview. The writer tries to excuse this within the story itself but it is a mistake, the descriptions become overly wordy and drawn out and the pace drops completely. A good editor would sort that out. The last 20% is childish, poorly written and frankly completely bizarre and unbelievable. From a good idea to a terrible ending.
November 14, 2025
This was a really good psychological thriller. It kept me turning the pages, and every time I thought I knew what was coming next, I didn’t. The story moved quickly and kept my attention the whole way through.
The ending definitely caught me off guard — in a good way. I didn’t see it coming at all, which made the book even better. If you like thrillers that are easy to get into and keep you guessing, this one is worth reading.
Would recommend.
The ending definitely caught me off guard — in a good way. I didn’t see it coming at all, which made the book even better. If you like thrillers that are easy to get into and keep you guessing, this one is worth reading.
Would recommend.
February 4, 2026
I just finished about 4 minutes ago so I’m sitting on my rating but I’m thinking 4.25/4.5 ⭐️
*This is coming from a girl who primarily reads romance and fantasy. *
I started this book at 8:30 and finished just before midnight. So I obviously ate it tf up. 😂 I was super intrigued by the interview/jury aspect.
Liam was so interesting to me while telling the story. I didn’t plan on finishing it in one night but I just needed to know what happened and it was so easy to read.
Did the ending completely shock me and have me like “wtf”… yes. It did. But I was also thrown off a little too 😂
I think it was an amazing debut novel and I really want to read the second now!!
*This is coming from a girl who primarily reads romance and fantasy. *
I started this book at 8:30 and finished just before midnight. So I obviously ate it tf up. 😂 I was super intrigued by the interview/jury aspect.
Liam was so interesting to me while telling the story. I didn’t plan on finishing it in one night but I just needed to know what happened and it was so easy to read.
Did the ending completely shock me and have me like “wtf”… yes. It did. But I was also thrown off a little too 😂
I think it was an amazing debut novel and I really want to read the second now!!
February 21, 2026
4.25/4.5
I heard this book was written in an interview style with murder, I knew I had to.
Had zero expectations and wow. This was bizarre yet I was captivated by this weird ass story the mc was sharing. The whole time I was saying “wtf” to myself. The first twist HAD ME SCREAMING. And then the second twist got me again. What a wild fucking ride. And the ENDing what the fuck.
I heard this book was written in an interview style with murder, I knew I had to.
Had zero expectations and wow. This was bizarre yet I was captivated by this weird ass story the mc was sharing. The whole time I was saying “wtf” to myself. The first twist HAD ME SCREAMING. And then the second twist got me again. What a wild fucking ride. And the ENDing what the fuck.
January 1, 2026
Wow! It was refreshing to read a book with a plot I have not encountered before.
Written very well, hooked me and the end dropped my jaw. I encourage this author to keep writing and I’m glad I ran across his post introducing us to this gem.
Written very well, hooked me and the end dropped my jaw. I encourage this author to keep writing and I’m glad I ran across his post introducing us to this gem.
November 15, 2025
Not my typical genre but maybe I should start reading more cause it was great I was in the edge of my seat the whole time and was shocked at the end
December 15, 2025
Terrible!
Brutal! Boring, woodie….I was told the ending was worth the read, I tried and tried, after 2/3 of the book read I could not read another page…..
Brutal! Boring, woodie….I was told the ending was worth the read, I tried and tried, after 2/3 of the book read I could not read another page…..
January 5, 2026
I kept thinking to myself as I was reading "if this is his debut book then I can only imagine what the future will hold!" I can confidently admit im an absolute psychological thriller junkie, I love anything fast pace that constantly leaves me questioning which direction the book will take us and Justin you did not disappoint!!
Liam was such an excellent story teller in this book, just enough detail so I wasn't left with questions, but not so much detail that I would get that slow burn book feeling. The Dectective in the book left me giggling and smirking at times, the image painted for Liams best friends made it super relatable and draws you in to their funny personalities of teenagers just finishing high school.
I absolutely loved the style of writing having the different fonts and how its a transcript of the interview with the detective and Liam. so incredibly happy I came across the self promo post for this book because idk if I wouldve found it otherwise!
Displacement is an absolute MUST READ that will leave you questioning so much up until the very end and leave you hoping for a book to follow up on it all...or perhaps a prequel to it all?!
Liam was such an excellent story teller in this book, just enough detail so I wasn't left with questions, but not so much detail that I would get that slow burn book feeling. The Dectective in the book left me giggling and smirking at times, the image painted for Liams best friends made it super relatable and draws you in to their funny personalities of teenagers just finishing high school.
I absolutely loved the style of writing having the different fonts and how its a transcript of the interview with the detective and Liam. so incredibly happy I came across the self promo post for this book because idk if I wouldve found it otherwise!
Displacement is an absolute MUST READ that will leave you questioning so much up until the very end and leave you hoping for a book to follow up on it all...or perhaps a prequel to it all?!
December 30, 2025
This is an excellent read if you like psychological thrillers. I couldn’t put it down. It would make a great movie as well. Loved it!!
December 23, 2025
I’m not much of a big reader but this book has gotten me back into it. Throughout this book there wasn’t a point where I wanted to stop reading. So many clues and hidden messages that gets you thinking and wondering what could really be happening. At first you think you can make some sort of prediction as to what’s going to happen but you will soon realize that the ending will leave you mind blown. This mystery/thriller is so creative and unique and now I am impatiently waiting for a sequel. 5 stars.
December 27, 2025
Kept me guessing every step of the way. Enjoyed it from beginning to end. Hoping that the author has more books lined up because I'm itching to read more from him!
January 3, 2026
This book was a self-recommendation from a new author in a FB group that I am part of for psychological thrillers. Always wanting to support new authors I decided to give it a try. I started the first couple of chapters and then life got busy. I went back and at that point I couldn’t put it down. I read a few reviews about how they thought the book “fell flat” in the end. I disagree. Yes, you are possibly left with a WTH feeling but also hoping for a sequel?
There were times throughout this book where yes I thought things got maybe a little weird and sometimes overly descriptive, however, I rated it 5 stars for a few reasons. 1- One night I couldn’t keep my eyes open and had to put it down for the night. I literally dreamed about this book and the characters. What would happen next? As if I was on the journey with them. 2- A part towards the end of the book literally made me gasp out loud. 3- I truly felt actively engaged and emotional about what was happening. I don’t always have that type of a connection with books.
Congratulations to this new young author. I can’t wait to read more!
There were times throughout this book where yes I thought things got maybe a little weird and sometimes overly descriptive, however, I rated it 5 stars for a few reasons. 1- One night I couldn’t keep my eyes open and had to put it down for the night. I literally dreamed about this book and the characters. What would happen next? As if I was on the journey with them. 2- A part towards the end of the book literally made me gasp out loud. 3- I truly felt actively engaged and emotional about what was happening. I don’t always have that type of a connection with books.
Congratulations to this new young author. I can’t wait to read more!
November 16, 2025
What an amazing book. I never saw the end coming. Such a great twist! I hope there’s a second book. I NEED to know what happens next!!
January 3, 2026
Wow. Without giving away any spoilers, this book had me constantly questioning what I thought I knew. I found myself picking up on inconsistencies in Liam’s story, only for the narrative to pull me straight back into believing him again. That push and pull was incredibly effective and kept me fully engaged throughout.
The writing itself was excellent, particularly the way the story is structured. Being placed in the position of the jury was a brilliant choice and made the reading experience feel immersive and unsettling in the best way. You’re not just reading the story, you’re actively judging it.
The only thing I would consider adding is a subtle trigger warning around mental illness. This could be done without spoiling the plot and would be a thoughtful inclusion for readers who may find certain themes confronting.
Overall, this was a compelling and cleverly written book that stays with you long after you finish it
The writing itself was excellent, particularly the way the story is structured. Being placed in the position of the jury was a brilliant choice and made the reading experience feel immersive and unsettling in the best way. You’re not just reading the story, you’re actively judging it.
The only thing I would consider adding is a subtle trigger warning around mental illness. This could be done without spoiling the plot and would be a thoughtful inclusion for readers who may find certain themes confronting.
Overall, this was a compelling and cleverly written book that stays with you long after you finish it
January 6, 2026
A MASTERPIECE!
Fans of Twilight Zone, Catriona Ward, Nat Cassidy, Marcus Kliewer, pay attention!!
This was an absolutely unputdownable horror/ thriller with a touch of crime and even a bit of science fiction. The format it’s written in is so unique and the main character is so likable, I read this book so fast. I have seen people say they don’t like the ending of the book, however I absolutely loved it. It’s a great twist, and just when I thought I wouldn’t like the ending, it switched gears and had me reeling! I loved this book!!
Fans of Twilight Zone, Catriona Ward, Nat Cassidy, Marcus Kliewer, pay attention!!
This was an absolutely unputdownable horror/ thriller with a touch of crime and even a bit of science fiction. The format it’s written in is so unique and the main character is so likable, I read this book so fast. I have seen people say they don’t like the ending of the book, however I absolutely loved it. It’s a great twist, and just when I thought I wouldn’t like the ending, it switched gears and had me reeling! I loved this book!!
January 3, 2026
A Rollercoaster of a Ride!!
I’m still sitting here wondering, "Did that really just happen?" Displacement is a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing from page one. I had no idea where Justin Pick was taking this story, but I was 100% along for the ride.
The protagonist, Liam, kept me on my toes—I went from rooting for him to doubting him and back again. It is incredibly rare for a book to catch me off guard twice, but the ending was a total mindf**k, followed by a final twist that absolutely blew me away. Highly recommended for thriller fans! 5+ Stars!!!
I’m still sitting here wondering, "Did that really just happen?" Displacement is a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing from page one. I had no idea where Justin Pick was taking this story, but I was 100% along for the ride.
The protagonist, Liam, kept me on my toes—I went from rooting for him to doubting him and back again. It is incredibly rare for a book to catch me off guard twice, but the ending was a total mindf**k, followed by a final twist that absolutely blew me away. Highly recommended for thriller fans! 5+ Stars!!!
February 23, 2026
This was so weird I loved it
January 3, 2026
Really great and fast paced book. I thought I had it figured out a few times but I wasn’t even close.
I loved the way it was written and the story being told by Liam as he is being interrogated, it really kept me engaged.
Definitely recommend reading if you like a fast paced & twisty psych thriller.
I loved the way it was written and the story being told by Liam as he is being interrogated, it really kept me engaged.
Definitely recommend reading if you like a fast paced & twisty psych thriller.
January 3, 2026
Hooked me from page 1
Love a good psychological thriller and Displacement did not disappoint. Will there be a sequel? Great first book and hopefully not last by this author.
Love a good psychological thriller and Displacement did not disappoint. Will there be a sequel? Great first book and hopefully not last by this author.
January 12, 2026
3.5⭐️
What?! My mind is still reeling from the ending because HUH?!
I read this in about 4 hours because I just HAD to know what was happening. If you want a psychological thriller that leaves you staring at the wall after finishing this one is for you!
What?! My mind is still reeling from the ending because HUH?!
I read this in about 4 hours because I just HAD to know what was happening. If you want a psychological thriller that leaves you staring at the wall after finishing this one is for you!
January 17, 2026
I think this book is a half-ready scrip for a YA movie. Although being a novel, the way it’s written made me constantly think of a film that it could easily become. Overall - not bad for a young writer’s debut. That’s was the main reason I bought this book - to support a good looking young writer who posted about his first book in one of Facebook book forums. I liked the story, it’s rather original and easily captivating. Not always believable, and with a slightly overdrawn ending, but it kept my unwavering attention from the first page and all the way to the last. I certainly recommend it as a YA read, although it will provide a good entertainment for any age. Well done with the debut, Justin! Go stronger with every book that follows!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews