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Roofboy: Dark and twisted psychological thriller by cult survivor makes readers question whether murders are born or created
Written by a cult survivor, psychological thriller Roofboy is a tense and deeply human portrait of motherhood and fear.
“For a moment, I am mesmerised by his fearlessness. But there’s another part of me, a darker part, that wonders what it would feel like to watch him fall.”
To the outside observer, Sasha Marsh is a dedicated single mum who goes above and beyond to ensure seven-year-old Gabriel lives a happy, healthy life in their sleepy Costwold village.
Yet beneath the façade of normalcy lies a darker reality, one where the doors and windows are always locked; where her son is never allowed to play outside, and where Sasha lives in constant fear.
With their violent past always at the forefront of her mind, and a family secret threatening to come to light, Sasha remains unflinching in her resolve to protect Gabriel, from others and himself.
But at what cost?
Bridport Prize shortlisted author and cult survivor Jess Blatchley delivers a dark psychological thriller exploring the inevitability of human decisions, and whether nurture can shape a mind seemingly destined to destroy.
“For a moment, I am mesmerised by his fearlessness. But there’s another part of me, a darker part, that wonders what it would feel like to watch him fall.”
To the outside observer, Sasha Marsh is a dedicated single mum who goes above and beyond to ensure seven-year-old Gabriel lives a happy, healthy life in their sleepy Costwold village.
Yet beneath the façade of normalcy lies a darker reality, one where the doors and windows are always locked; where her son is never allowed to play outside, and where Sasha lives in constant fear.
With their violent past always at the forefront of her mind, and a family secret threatening to come to light, Sasha remains unflinching in her resolve to protect Gabriel, from others and himself.
But at what cost?
Bridport Prize shortlisted author and cult survivor Jess Blatchley delivers a dark psychological thriller exploring the inevitability of human decisions, and whether nurture can shape a mind seemingly destined to destroy.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Jess Blatchley
1 book3 followersAn author, singer, and teacher, Jess Blatchley has always been fascinated by complex, nuanced characters, and enjoys exploring unreliable protagonists. Her fascination with contradictory human behaviour stems from her experience being recruited into a religious cult in her early teens, where Jess spent twenty years of her life. Much of her writing is inspired by her survival and recovery, and she continues to devote time to supporting individuals exiting toxic groups and healing from spiritual abuse
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 4, 2026
Magnificent. This is a story that's going to stay with me for some time and made me feel very emotional. It poses many questions that will leave you pondering the complexities of human nature and how much of ourselves is influenced by our genetic makeup and our environments. Is someone ever truly bad?
It's a tough read in many subtle and not so subtle ways, but it's delivered carefully and thoughtfully alongside Jess' beautifully poetic writing.
Roof Boy uses multiple POVs and short chapters to put across the story from different perspectives and I found them really enhancing as it showed the dilemmas and thought processes of each character in a way that makes you understand their actions as best as possible, even when it was difficult.
These POV are especially poignant at the end which is both heartbreaking, but hopeful and incredibly touching.
Roof Boy is a must read, especially for those with an interest in psychology and what makes us do the things we do.
It's a tough read in many subtle and not so subtle ways, but it's delivered carefully and thoughtfully alongside Jess' beautifully poetic writing.
Roof Boy uses multiple POVs and short chapters to put across the story from different perspectives and I found them really enhancing as it showed the dilemmas and thought processes of each character in a way that makes you understand their actions as best as possible, even when it was difficult.
These POV are especially poignant at the end which is both heartbreaking, but hopeful and incredibly touching.
Roof Boy is a must read, especially for those with an interest in psychology and what makes us do the things we do.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you love psychological thrillers that play with your mind and make you question every character’s motive, Roofboy by Jess Blatchley is definitely for you. This novel centers on Sasha Marsh, a mother living a quiet life in Cotswold village, who will do anything to make sure her seven-year-old son, Gabriel, grows up happy, safe, and healthy.
To everyone around her, Sasha seems overly cautious, even overprotective. People think that her behavior comes from deep trauma: she spent years living with a man she describes as a psychopath, and even after they separated, he didn’t leave them alone. In a terrifying incident when Gabriel was still a baby, her ex-husband kidnapped him. Given that history, it’s easy to understand why Sasha is so guarded, or is it?
Here’s the twist no one sees coming: Sasha isn’t just trying to protect Gabriel from the world. She is trying to protect the world from Gabriel.
This story is packed with "surprises" from start to finish, and I was hooked from the very first page. It begins by hinting that Gabriel may have psychopathic tendencies indicating that he could follow in his father's dark footsteps. But just when you think you have it all figured out, the story shifts. Midway through, a shocking revelation about Sasha’s past makes you wonder: is Gabriel really dangerous, or is everything happening just inside Sasha’s head? Maybe Gabriel is just a normal, energetic little boy, and Sasha’s trauma is distorting her reality.
Then comes the ending, a catastrophic, intense event that turns everything upside down again. Suddenly, you’re asking the same questions Sasha asks herself: What if Gabriel really is a psychopath? What if he truly is capable of hurting people? That rollercoaster of doubt, fear, and uncertainty is what I love most in a thriller. It kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly changing my mind about what was true and who I should believe.
Beyond the brilliant plot, Roofboy shines in other aspects too. Blatchley’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, with a smooth pace that never feels too slow or rushed. The characters feel real and human, especially Sasha. I found myself deeply sympathizing with her struggles, and by the time I reached the final chapters, I was almost in tears over what she endures.
Roofboy isn’t just a story about a mother and son; it’s a gripping exploration of trauma, perception, and the terrifying question of whether darkness is something you learn or something you’re born with. If you’re looking for a thriller that challenges your assumptions and stays with you long after you finish reading, this one is a must-read.
Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with the review copy.
To everyone around her, Sasha seems overly cautious, even overprotective. People think that her behavior comes from deep trauma: she spent years living with a man she describes as a psychopath, and even after they separated, he didn’t leave them alone. In a terrifying incident when Gabriel was still a baby, her ex-husband kidnapped him. Given that history, it’s easy to understand why Sasha is so guarded, or is it?
Here’s the twist no one sees coming: Sasha isn’t just trying to protect Gabriel from the world. She is trying to protect the world from Gabriel.
This story is packed with "surprises" from start to finish, and I was hooked from the very first page. It begins by hinting that Gabriel may have psychopathic tendencies indicating that he could follow in his father's dark footsteps. But just when you think you have it all figured out, the story shifts. Midway through, a shocking revelation about Sasha’s past makes you wonder: is Gabriel really dangerous, or is everything happening just inside Sasha’s head? Maybe Gabriel is just a normal, energetic little boy, and Sasha’s trauma is distorting her reality.
Then comes the ending, a catastrophic, intense event that turns everything upside down again. Suddenly, you’re asking the same questions Sasha asks herself: What if Gabriel really is a psychopath? What if he truly is capable of hurting people? That rollercoaster of doubt, fear, and uncertainty is what I love most in a thriller. It kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly changing my mind about what was true and who I should believe.
Beyond the brilliant plot, Roofboy shines in other aspects too. Blatchley’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow, with a smooth pace that never feels too slow or rushed. The characters feel real and human, especially Sasha. I found myself deeply sympathizing with her struggles, and by the time I reached the final chapters, I was almost in tears over what she endures.
Roofboy isn’t just a story about a mother and son; it’s a gripping exploration of trauma, perception, and the terrifying question of whether darkness is something you learn or something you’re born with. If you’re looking for a thriller that challenges your assumptions and stays with you long after you finish reading, this one is a must-read.
Thank you to Cranthorpe Millner Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with the review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is one of those that's going to stick with me for a long while, and is an easy 5 stars, purely for all the emotions that I felt throughout.
Our MC Sasha, is shown as a single mum, with a violent past. It's so easy to think of Sasha as a bad character and mother (in certain ways), until we come to the understanding that shes also protecting the outside world from Gabriel. By locking him inside, and refusing social contact.
Gabriel (who is now 7), was abducted by his father as a young child, and goodness knows what he went through before he was rescued. But since then, he shows psychopathic and violent tendencies. His father, Dominic, has since been arrested and facing life in prison...
Seeing Gabriel gradually show some normality (in his own way) was refreshing to see. Even if he definitely creeped me out at the beginning. But he begins to show compassion, and thats all down to Sasha being an incredible mother. The progression of Gabriel is so visible in what he expresses, such as in the beginning:
~' " i want to crush their brains" '
~'He hits me, in the same places his father used to. My belly, my back, my thighs.'
~' " How does it make you feel that mummy's hand is hurty?" "Happy" '
~' "Watch those people dying. I wonder what it looks like." '
And later in the story, he shows compassion, makes friends, and has more normality in his life.
There's a scene where, his father, Dominic, has escaped from prison. My heart jumped at the sentence, as he is hidden in the wall of Sasha's own home. I knew what happen from this point (and I won't spoil that part), but this had me so emotional. And especially so in the chapters following.
Our MC Sasha, is shown as a single mum, with a violent past. It's so easy to think of Sasha as a bad character and mother (in certain ways), until we come to the understanding that shes also protecting the outside world from Gabriel. By locking him inside, and refusing social contact.
Gabriel (who is now 7), was abducted by his father as a young child, and goodness knows what he went through before he was rescued. But since then, he shows psychopathic and violent tendencies. His father, Dominic, has since been arrested and facing life in prison...
Seeing Gabriel gradually show some normality (in his own way) was refreshing to see. Even if he definitely creeped me out at the beginning. But he begins to show compassion, and thats all down to Sasha being an incredible mother. The progression of Gabriel is so visible in what he expresses, such as in the beginning:
~' " i want to crush their brains" '
~'He hits me, in the same places his father used to. My belly, my back, my thighs.'
~' " How does it make you feel that mummy's hand is hurty?" "Happy" '
~' "Watch those people dying. I wonder what it looks like." '
And later in the story, he shows compassion, makes friends, and has more normality in his life.
There's a scene where, his father, Dominic, has escaped from prison. My heart jumped at the sentence, as he is hidden in the wall of Sasha's own home. I knew what happen from this point (and I won't spoil that part), but this had me so emotional. And especially so in the chapters following.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2026
This book was so good! There was a real sense of foreboding throughout.
Sasha is a single mum to Gabriel. Between them, they have some serious trauma dating back to when Gabriel was a baby and his abusive dad abducted him. Gabriel comes across as possibly ADHD/Autistic, which causes conflict for Sasha as she doesn't want him to be labelled by school or the social workers. However she also believes deep down that he has psychopathic tendencies. A lot of her parenting in the beginning of the book, although trying to be protective, comes across as harsh and quite abusive.
I found Sasha an interesting character as she definitely has her own issues going on. She clearly loves Gabriel and wants to protect him, but is also scared of him and his behaviour.
Things improve for them when they meet Kieran the gardener. I liked their relationship with him as I think he really helped Sasha and was brilliant with Gabriel.
I could not put this book down! The story is character-driven and tension builds slowly. I had a very uneasy feeling the whole time I was reading, as there seems to be hints that something bad is going to happen eventually.
Sasha is a single mum to Gabriel. Between them, they have some serious trauma dating back to when Gabriel was a baby and his abusive dad abducted him. Gabriel comes across as possibly ADHD/Autistic, which causes conflict for Sasha as she doesn't want him to be labelled by school or the social workers. However she also believes deep down that he has psychopathic tendencies. A lot of her parenting in the beginning of the book, although trying to be protective, comes across as harsh and quite abusive.
I found Sasha an interesting character as she definitely has her own issues going on. She clearly loves Gabriel and wants to protect him, but is also scared of him and his behaviour.
Things improve for them when they meet Kieran the gardener. I liked their relationship with him as I think he really helped Sasha and was brilliant with Gabriel.
I could not put this book down! The story is character-driven and tension builds slowly. I had a very uneasy feeling the whole time I was reading, as there seems to be hints that something bad is going to happen eventually.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Roofboy is a psychological thriller that explores the question of whether violent tendencies are inherited or shaped by the way someone is bought up. Sasha is forever on edge constantly fearful that her young son may be capable of terrible acts. She is desperate to control the future but has secrets emerge she begins to spiral out of control.
The novel is thought provoking as it made me think how far would I go to protect my own son. Sashas growing sense of unease starts from the first few pages creating a superb atmosphere built upon suspense. I had a lot of sympathy for Sasha however as the story progresses & she begins to lose control she makes some awful decisions & I definitely reconsidered my opinion several times. An unreliable protagonist has contributed to a really good storyline making it that little bit more believable.
If you enjoy morally conplex characters, the dark psychological theme & a story to get your mind working then
Thank you to Cranthorpe Milner for a copy of the book.
The novel is thought provoking as it made me think how far would I go to protect my own son. Sashas growing sense of unease starts from the first few pages creating a superb atmosphere built upon suspense. I had a lot of sympathy for Sasha however as the story progresses & she begins to lose control she makes some awful decisions & I definitely reconsidered my opinion several times. An unreliable protagonist has contributed to a really good storyline making it that little bit more believable.
If you enjoy morally conplex characters, the dark psychological theme & a story to get your mind working then
Thank you to Cranthorpe Milner for a copy of the book.
June 30, 2026
Roof Boy is a physiological thriller that delves into the dark, sombre side of life, that side which lurks in the shadows, murky, hidden and forgotten about.
At its heart, it's a tale of motherhood as we follow Sasha, doing her best to ensure her seven year old Son, Gabriel has the best life possible in their small, sleepy Cotswold village. But they are escaping a violent past, something that is always at the forefront of Sasha's mind, causing constant fear. But will that past come back to haunt them? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
If you enjoy slow burn, character-driven thrillers, then this is the read for you. With a main theme centering around the profound question "Are violent tendencies inherited, or are they developed through one's upbringing and lifestyle, or a combination of both?" , it's quite an unsettling read at times, with a storyline that's full of deep feeling and an atmosphere of unease.
It's certainly a read that is sure to stay with you lond after you turn the final page.
4 stars from me.
At its heart, it's a tale of motherhood as we follow Sasha, doing her best to ensure her seven year old Son, Gabriel has the best life possible in their small, sleepy Cotswold village. But they are escaping a violent past, something that is always at the forefront of Sasha's mind, causing constant fear. But will that past come back to haunt them? Be sure to pick your copy up to find out.
If you enjoy slow burn, character-driven thrillers, then this is the read for you. With a main theme centering around the profound question "Are violent tendencies inherited, or are they developed through one's upbringing and lifestyle, or a combination of both?" , it's quite an unsettling read at times, with a storyline that's full of deep feeling and an atmosphere of unease.
It's certainly a read that is sure to stay with you lond after you turn the final page.
4 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jess Blatchley’s Roof Boy is a quietly unsettling psychological thriller that lingers long after the final page. Rather than relying on big twists, it builds tension through atmosphere and character, exploring the fine line between protection and control.
Sasha is a compelling and complex protagonist—her devotion to her son is clear, but there’s an intensity to it that feels increasingly claustrophobic. The locked doors, constant fear, and sense of looming danger create a deeply uneasy mood throughout.
What really stood out was the novel’s subtle handling of nature versus nurture, particularly through Gabriel’s unpredictable presence. Blatchley refuses easy answers, which makes the story all the more haunting.
A dark, thoughtful read that will appeal to those who prefer slow-burning, character-driven thrillers.
with thanks to Jess Blatchley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Sasha is a compelling and complex protagonist—her devotion to her son is clear, but there’s an intensity to it that feels increasingly claustrophobic. The locked doors, constant fear, and sense of looming danger create a deeply uneasy mood throughout.
What really stood out was the novel’s subtle handling of nature versus nurture, particularly through Gabriel’s unpredictable presence. Blatchley refuses easy answers, which makes the story all the more haunting.
A dark, thoughtful read that will appeal to those who prefer slow-burning, character-driven thrillers.
with thanks to Jess Blatchley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It’s been a while since I read a thriller so good!
I’m currently on a summerween readathon and was looking for the perfect thriller to add to my list to read and after reading the synopsis of this novel I KNEW it had to be my next read! Growing up in the Cotswolds made this feel even that more eerie for me, with this authors amazing way with words that gets you feeling like you’re living through this story I was on the edge of my seat this whole read!
If you like thrillers that make you bite your nails then this is for you, I loved the story line and all the twists and turns that jump at your through out this read, it’s safe to say this was the perfect sumerween read, the right amount of suspense with an amazing unique plot
I’m currently on a summerween readathon and was looking for the perfect thriller to add to my list to read and after reading the synopsis of this novel I KNEW it had to be my next read! Growing up in the Cotswolds made this feel even that more eerie for me, with this authors amazing way with words that gets you feeling like you’re living through this story I was on the edge of my seat this whole read!
If you like thrillers that make you bite your nails then this is for you, I loved the story line and all the twists and turns that jump at your through out this read, it’s safe to say this was the perfect sumerween read, the right amount of suspense with an amazing unique plot
Review of advance copy
Whilst I can see how the plot of the book may appeal (it appealed to me when I read the blurb), it felt like it was failing to deliver. It started with promise but then felt like it became a little insipid.
I’m not sure exactly what I expected, (perhaps that it was going to be along the lines of “We Need to Talk About Kevin” but it just felt a little clunky and drawn out, and I was unsure where the author was going with it.
That’s not to say I wouldn’t give it another go another time, but for me and on this occasion, it didn’t engage me.
I’m not sure exactly what I expected, (perhaps that it was going to be along the lines of “We Need to Talk About Kevin” but it just felt a little clunky and drawn out, and I was unsure where the author was going with it.
That’s not to say I wouldn’t give it another go another time, but for me and on this occasion, it didn’t engage me.
September 21, 2026
Wow, really impressed! I was immediately drawn in and was kept engaged throughout the book. It was so well written and flowed beautifully. Loved the premise of the book and was really intrigued as to where the storyline was heading. Great character depth, especially Gabriel’s. It was the perfect mix of mysterious, creepy and interesting. Absolutely recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5-3 stars
The synopsis for this book immediately drew me in, and I thought the first 70% of this book was pretty good. After that, the story took a strange turn and even the style of writing seemed different. I’m sorry to say after that point, I didn’t enjoy it.
The synopsis for this book immediately drew me in, and I thought the first 70% of this book was pretty good. After that, the story took a strange turn and even the style of writing seemed different. I’m sorry to say after that point, I didn’t enjoy it.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews