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The Watcher #1
The Watcher
The Watcher: a chilling new serial killer thriller
Life couldn’t get much better for Hannah. She accepts her dream job in Manchester, and easily makes friends with her new neighbours.
When she becomes romantically involved with her boss, she can’t believe her luck. But things are about to take a grisly turn.
As her colleagues and neighbours are killed off one by one, Hannah’s idyllic life starts to fall apart. But when her mother becomes the next victim, the connection to Hannah is all too real.
Who is watching her every move?
Will the police discover the real killer in time?
Hannah is about to learn that appearances can be deceptive.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2017
224 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 19, 2017
If someone said to me "Sue, sum this book up in a few words or sentences"
Gripping from the first page
steady pace that quickens its steps to the point of exciting the reader to 'read on' just another chapter.
This has the jaw dropping mind boggling WOW factor with the creepiness that keeps you tingling, that sends shivers down your spine to the worry of fretting over Hannah.
This also had the OMG factor, the more The Watcher came to the fore.
SNAP-SNAP-SNAP
Yes that has relevance to the plot....SNAP
Max.
I so loved Max. Shielding, protective, sexy Max.
Hannah was a lucky sod....for a while.
I am not prepared to delve into the storyline too much or the characters within the pages but what I will say is, this is simply the easiest 5 stars to give (and more)
It's edge of your seat reading.
The events that happen are remarkably mind blowing. I felt for each victim.
I'm blessed (or cursed) with a vivid mind. A book to me is very much like someone watching a film. The scenes play out, the people become 3 D, I can see them, I can feel them. Now when that happens to me and I'm left gasping at the last page, watch out author. I'll be looking for your next book.
I honestly and hand on heart saying. The ending was.......WHAT....OMG.
Is there a book 2.
If not, and this is the end then Watch out Hannah.
I placed my Kindle down and tried to sleep. It's been hard reading another book back to back with this one.
I've left it a day before deciding what to follow this one as I was left so much on a high.
Would I recommend this to you. Yes if you like psychological thrillers, crime, mild OMG moments and books that have a very high quality.
This is IT.
Gripping from the first page
steady pace that quickens its steps to the point of exciting the reader to 'read on' just another chapter.
This has the jaw dropping mind boggling WOW factor with the creepiness that keeps you tingling, that sends shivers down your spine to the worry of fretting over Hannah.
This also had the OMG factor, the more The Watcher came to the fore.
SNAP-SNAP-SNAP
Yes that has relevance to the plot....SNAP
Max.
I so loved Max. Shielding, protective, sexy Max.
Hannah was a lucky sod....for a while.
I am not prepared to delve into the storyline too much or the characters within the pages but what I will say is, this is simply the easiest 5 stars to give (and more)
It's edge of your seat reading.
The events that happen are remarkably mind blowing. I felt for each victim.
I'm blessed (or cursed) with a vivid mind. A book to me is very much like someone watching a film. The scenes play out, the people become 3 D, I can see them, I can feel them. Now when that happens to me and I'm left gasping at the last page, watch out author. I'll be looking for your next book.
I honestly and hand on heart saying. The ending was.......WHAT....OMG.
Is there a book 2.
If not, and this is the end then Watch out Hannah.
I placed my Kindle down and tried to sleep. It's been hard reading another book back to back with this one.
I've left it a day before deciding what to follow this one as I was left so much on a high.
Would I recommend this to you. Yes if you like psychological thrillers, crime, mild OMG moments and books that have a very high quality.
This is IT.
August 23, 2017
Hannah’s life is finally falling into place. She’s accepted her dream job in Manchester, has a lovely apartment, and become great friends with her two neighbors. Shortly after starting her new job, she starts dating the boss, which causes some tension between her and her coworkers.
Unfortunately, that becomes the least of Hannah’s worries. Hannah starts feeling like someone has been in her apartment, and begins to notice odd things happening around her. When people around her start dying, she doesn’t know what to think. Little does she know, she’s being watched by someone who will stop at nothing to make sure Hannah is his.
I definitely have some mixed feelings about this book. I’ll start with the things I loved. First of all, the killer/stalker. It’s revealed in the first chapter who the killer is, so the subsequent chapters alternate between Hannah’s point of view and the killer, Don’s. Don has to be one of the most terrifying antagonists I can remember reading. He’s cunning, conniving, sadistic, and psychopathic, and has excellent military training that allows him to easily cover up his murders and pin them on someone else. He sets his sights on Hannah, and the insight we have into his mind is just really scary. I absolutely loved that aspect of it. I also loved the overall plot of the story, and particularly loved the ending, despite it not being what I excepted to happen (or what I wanted to happen for that matter!)
Now, the one issue I had with the book was the insta-love! As previously mentioned, Hannah starts dating her boss, but it felt like that relationship happened so quickly, and it was very underdeveloped. All of a sudden they went from having a business dinner to him showing up at her apartment to cook for her. Shortly after that, they’re talking about kids and Hannah is thinking he’s “the one” – at this point it had been only 3-4 weeks since they’d known each other! I don’t think I would have minded the relationship storyline if it had been more developed and if the progression of their relationship made more sense.
All in all, I waffled a lot on my rating – I wasn’t sure if I wanted to rate it 3 or 4 stars. At the end of the day, I think I’m somewhere around 3.75 stars, so I rounded up to 4 stars.
**Have you read this one? If so, message me! I’m dying to talk to someone about the ending!!**
Unfortunately, that becomes the least of Hannah’s worries. Hannah starts feeling like someone has been in her apartment, and begins to notice odd things happening around her. When people around her start dying, she doesn’t know what to think. Little does she know, she’s being watched by someone who will stop at nothing to make sure Hannah is his.
I definitely have some mixed feelings about this book. I’ll start with the things I loved. First of all, the killer/stalker. It’s revealed in the first chapter who the killer is, so the subsequent chapters alternate between Hannah’s point of view and the killer, Don’s. Don has to be one of the most terrifying antagonists I can remember reading. He’s cunning, conniving, sadistic, and psychopathic, and has excellent military training that allows him to easily cover up his murders and pin them on someone else. He sets his sights on Hannah, and the insight we have into his mind is just really scary. I absolutely loved that aspect of it. I also loved the overall plot of the story, and particularly loved the ending, despite it not being what I excepted to happen (or what I wanted to happen for that matter!)
Now, the one issue I had with the book was the insta-love! As previously mentioned, Hannah starts dating her boss, but it felt like that relationship happened so quickly, and it was very underdeveloped. All of a sudden they went from having a business dinner to him showing up at her apartment to cook for her. Shortly after that, they’re talking about kids and Hannah is thinking he’s “the one” – at this point it had been only 3-4 weeks since they’d known each other! I don’t think I would have minded the relationship storyline if it had been more developed and if the progression of their relationship made more sense.
All in all, I waffled a lot on my rating – I wasn’t sure if I wanted to rate it 3 or 4 stars. At the end of the day, I think I’m somewhere around 3.75 stars, so I rounded up to 4 stars.
**Have you read this one? If so, message me! I’m dying to talk to someone about the ending!!**
February 5, 2017
I am a huge fan of this authors books so couldn’t wait to read her new stand alone novel.
Hannah is such a lovely person. I was really happy for her that she had decided to break away from the ties of her family and venture out into the big world and put herself and her career first. Having now finished the novel though, all I can say is that I really wish she had stayed at home!
I keep thinking this author can’t shock me anymore than she already has done but boy did she up the anti in this book. The way the baddie killed some of his victims, all I can say is that it sent some proper chills to my spine. It made me want to go and take a shower afterwards just to cleanse my mind and undo some of what I had read. Certainly don’t advise reading it before bed unless you want nightmares if you are on the more sensitive side.
This is one of those stories where right from the start we know who the one behind all the horrible killings is. Sadly the characters don’t. It felt like I was at a panto as I wanted to keep screaming to the characters who it was but then where would the fun in that be if they found out. It certainly makes for a gripping read though waiting for them to realise.
The Watcher is an extremely dark and enthralling read. Even though there were parts that I don’t think I can ever un see from my mind, I couldn’t get enough or turn the pages fast enough. If you love a psychological thriller/suspense that will shock and mess with your head, then look no further.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Hannah is such a lovely person. I was really happy for her that she had decided to break away from the ties of her family and venture out into the big world and put herself and her career first. Having now finished the novel though, all I can say is that I really wish she had stayed at home!
I keep thinking this author can’t shock me anymore than she already has done but boy did she up the anti in this book. The way the baddie killed some of his victims, all I can say is that it sent some proper chills to my spine. It made me want to go and take a shower afterwards just to cleanse my mind and undo some of what I had read. Certainly don’t advise reading it before bed unless you want nightmares if you are on the more sensitive side.
This is one of those stories where right from the start we know who the one behind all the horrible killings is. Sadly the characters don’t. It felt like I was at a panto as I wanted to keep screaming to the characters who it was but then where would the fun in that be if they found out. It certainly makes for a gripping read though waiting for them to realise.
The Watcher is an extremely dark and enthralling read. Even though there were parts that I don’t think I can ever un see from my mind, I couldn’t get enough or turn the pages fast enough. If you love a psychological thriller/suspense that will shock and mess with your head, then look no further.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
February 7, 2017
I would give this book more than five stars if I could, it has to be the best book I've read in a very long time. Heart-thumping, chillingly good.
Hannah is such a lovely character and as a reader you feel pleased when things in her life slot into place, a new job in Manchester, a flat where she gets on well with her new neighbours. But as soon as she starts to have romantic inclinations towards her boss things start to go awry.
I have to say that my heart was in my mouth several times as those around her are robbed of their lives. Even her nearest and dearest are targeted, but who is the monster carrying out these crimes. The twists and turns and the suspect characters Ms Newbound introduces has you suspecting everyone in sight.
The ending was a real shocker for me, which makes this one of the best psychological thrillers I've read to date.
Who is The Watcher? An amazing read not to be missed.
Hannah is such a lovely character and as a reader you feel pleased when things in her life slot into place, a new job in Manchester, a flat where she gets on well with her new neighbours. But as soon as she starts to have romantic inclinations towards her boss things start to go awry.
I have to say that my heart was in my mouth several times as those around her are robbed of their lives. Even her nearest and dearest are targeted, but who is the monster carrying out these crimes. The twists and turns and the suspect characters Ms Newbound introduces has you suspecting everyone in sight.
The ending was a real shocker for me, which makes this one of the best psychological thrillers I've read to date.
Who is The Watcher? An amazing read not to be missed.
February 14, 2017
Wow! I felt so many emotions reading this book. It is haunting and chilling, and I hated that "real life" meant I had to keep putting it down.
The characters are well-rounded, and I felt their sadness, joy, fear and anger. There are some tough subjects faced in this book, and I take my hat off to the author for not tip-toeing around them. They added depth to the believable characters.
I highly recommend The Watcher!
The characters are well-rounded, and I felt their sadness, joy, fear and anger. There are some tough subjects faced in this book, and I take my hat off to the author for not tip-toeing around them. They added depth to the believable characters.
I highly recommend The Watcher!
August 19, 2018
Netta Newbound can really write. An Impossible Dilemma and the Adam Stanley books were really great and I can recommend them. This, unfortunately, was not. It was very derivative and I also read something very similar not too long ago so this topic is getting a bit 'old'.
Hannah is a young professional who moves to Manchester to take up a new and more responsible job. Cliched as it is, she is flattered by the attentions of her new handsome and very suave boss and they are soon an item. But someone else has their eye on Hannah. This is what I hate - some guy sees a woman he fancies and all of a sudden she belongs to him. He spies on her and believes that when he is ready to make himself known she will fall into his arms and they will live happily ever after. He gets furious when he perceives anyone else encroaching on 'his' territory. They must be eliminated!! So anyone that gets in his way - watch out.
I was struggling not to DNF this from an early point onwards however I did persevere and the ending redeemed the book quite a lot. The ending is not what you are expecting and it had a huge creep factor.
Hannah is a young professional who moves to Manchester to take up a new and more responsible job. Cliched as it is, she is flattered by the attentions of her new handsome and very suave boss and they are soon an item. But someone else has their eye on Hannah. This is what I hate - some guy sees a woman he fancies and all of a sudden she belongs to him. He spies on her and believes that when he is ready to make himself known she will fall into his arms and they will live happily ever after. He gets furious when he perceives anyone else encroaching on 'his' territory. They must be eliminated!! So anyone that gets in his way - watch out.
I was struggling not to DNF this from an early point onwards however I did persevere and the ending redeemed the book quite a lot. The ending is not what you are expecting and it had a huge creep factor.
February 1, 2017
The Watcher By Netta Newbound is a mystery and thriller read.
Life couldn’t get much better for Hannah. She accepts her dream job in Manchester, and easily makes friends with her new neighbours.
When she becomes romantically involved with her boss, she can’t believe her luck. But things are about to take a grisly turn.
As her colleagues and neighbours are killed off one by one, Hannah’s idyllic life starts to fall apart. But when her mother becomes the next victim, the connection to Hannah is all too real.
Who is watching her every move?
Will the police discover the real killer in time?
Hannah is about to learn that appearances can be deceptive.
OMG. An absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. I didn’t like Don though. He was evil. Completely engrossed in this book. I do hope there is more to come. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Bloodhound books.
Life couldn’t get much better for Hannah. She accepts her dream job in Manchester, and easily makes friends with her new neighbours.
When she becomes romantically involved with her boss, she can’t believe her luck. But things are about to take a grisly turn.
As her colleagues and neighbours are killed off one by one, Hannah’s idyllic life starts to fall apart. But when her mother becomes the next victim, the connection to Hannah is all too real.
Who is watching her every move?
Will the police discover the real killer in time?
Hannah is about to learn that appearances can be deceptive.
OMG. An absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. I didn’t like Don though. He was evil. Completely engrossed in this book. I do hope there is more to come. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Bloodhound books.
February 17, 2017
Brilliant. The story of Hannah. Who has everything a girl could want. A new job, a new flat, new neighbours and a new boyfriend. . so everything in the garden is rosy or is it? Everything that goes up must come down. It's not long before Hannah I questioning everything, including her sanity as her ideal world starts to crumble around her.
The quality of the writing and the storyline makes for a fast, exciting read. My first read by Ms Newbound but enough to encourage me to read more by her. Well worth the 5 stars in my opinion. I urge you all to read this book
The quality of the writing and the storyline makes for a fast, exciting read. My first read by Ms Newbound but enough to encourage me to read more by her. Well worth the 5 stars in my opinion. I urge you all to read this book
February 15, 2017
Chilling, thrilling and creepy are three words to describe this novel. I've read a number of books that claim to be those things, but this one takes them to new level. The Watcher is an evil piece of work and a brilliant antagonist. The writing in this story is excellent and very atmospheric - you can feel the tension as you read.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys their psychological thrillers on the creepy side!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys their psychological thrillers on the creepy side!
February 3, 2017
As usual Netta Newbound let's you float in nicely, tales of new towns, happy neighbours then Booooom!
The Watcher is introduced and what a nasty piece of work he is. Manipulative and sneaky. A bad guy at his best/worst?
Another not dissapointing book from Netta and Bloodhound, not biased review from myself.
Thank you
The Watcher is introduced and what a nasty piece of work he is. Manipulative and sneaky. A bad guy at his best/worst?
Another not dissapointing book from Netta and Bloodhound, not biased review from myself.
Thank you
February 6, 2017
If you have read any of Netta Newbound’s books then you will know that she is a master at writing a gripping and tense read. This book certainly doesn’t let the side down! In fact, I think that she surpassed herself with The Watcher.
Hannah is a really likeable character, she loves her parents and is great at her job but when she gets an amazing opportunity she takes a chance and moves away from the small, quiet village that she grew up in and heads off to start a new job in Manchester. She settles in quickly and makes friends with her neighbours, she loves her new job and when she starts falling for her boss she can’t believe that he feels the same way about her. Life seems pretty much perfect.
Of course, things are never that simple. Unknown to her, Hannah has attracted the attention of someone else, someone who is determined that she will be his and he will stop at nothing to get her.
Soon, Hannah finds her life changing. One of her flatmates is murdered and Hannah is sure that someone has been moving her stuff, even in her own home. She doesn’t know what is going on but feels uneasy. I found this part of the book so tense, I could feel my body reacting to what I was reading and I am sure that there were many parts that I didn’t breath at all and I stayed up far too late reading The Watcher, desperate to know what was going to happen.
The author also has a way with words, she is able to describe things in an incredibly visual way, this can make her books quite gruesome which is something that doesn’t bother me, but I know some struggle with. Don’t let that put you off, you’d be missing out on a great read if you did, and I’m sure that you can skim over the bits that you want to.
I really like how we, the readers, know who the baddie is from the start. This helps build the tension as we read about Hannah interacting with him without knowing who he really is. It’s a bit like the movies where you want to shout ‘he’s behind you’ at the character who was totally oblivious to the danger!
I really enjoyed reading The Watcher, it is well written with great characters and the coldness of the baddie is chilling. I have little doubt that if you read this book you will be wanting to read the authors other books.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for my copy of The Watcher by Netta Newbound.
Hannah is a really likeable character, she loves her parents and is great at her job but when she gets an amazing opportunity she takes a chance and moves away from the small, quiet village that she grew up in and heads off to start a new job in Manchester. She settles in quickly and makes friends with her neighbours, she loves her new job and when she starts falling for her boss she can’t believe that he feels the same way about her. Life seems pretty much perfect.
Of course, things are never that simple. Unknown to her, Hannah has attracted the attention of someone else, someone who is determined that she will be his and he will stop at nothing to get her.
Soon, Hannah finds her life changing. One of her flatmates is murdered and Hannah is sure that someone has been moving her stuff, even in her own home. She doesn’t know what is going on but feels uneasy. I found this part of the book so tense, I could feel my body reacting to what I was reading and I am sure that there were many parts that I didn’t breath at all and I stayed up far too late reading The Watcher, desperate to know what was going to happen.
The author also has a way with words, she is able to describe things in an incredibly visual way, this can make her books quite gruesome which is something that doesn’t bother me, but I know some struggle with. Don’t let that put you off, you’d be missing out on a great read if you did, and I’m sure that you can skim over the bits that you want to.
I really like how we, the readers, know who the baddie is from the start. This helps build the tension as we read about Hannah interacting with him without knowing who he really is. It’s a bit like the movies where you want to shout ‘he’s behind you’ at the character who was totally oblivious to the danger!
I really enjoyed reading The Watcher, it is well written with great characters and the coldness of the baddie is chilling. I have little doubt that if you read this book you will be wanting to read the authors other books.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for my copy of The Watcher by Netta Newbound.
February 4, 2017
Well this book has about as much awesomeness that a book can possibly have because Netta Newbound would make a reluctant reader an addict, this book it is that bloody good! The story begins 17 years ago in Germany with a terrifying ordeal and I am left open mouthed saying in my head and..... and........but we head to present day, and I am now edgy. You know when everything just seems to fall into place and all your dreams sort of come together, well that happens to Hannah. The opportunity of the dream job, perfect boss, the right apartment and neighbours that feel like they have been your mates for years. Then in the back of your mind you are thinking, oh no this can't last. Now there is payment to be made for all these good things but what happens to Hannah is the equivalent of bankruptcy in the happiness stakes.
How have I not found this author before now, because she talks my kind of gruesome, every action, every horrendous killing with it's ingenious originality, had me totally fixated to each word. If you can possible say that a killing is good then Netta Newbound just got a distinction. This bloke has gone to be one of my all time favourite bad guys he is so darn wicked! There is a time though when I felt sorry for him.
This story is captivating from the start and I simply loved everything about it. At times it even made me laugh too which I love about a book that has such a heart stopping story. A definite must buy.
How have I not found this author before now, because she talks my kind of gruesome, every action, every horrendous killing with it's ingenious originality, had me totally fixated to each word. If you can possible say that a killing is good then Netta Newbound just got a distinction. This bloke has gone to be one of my all time favourite bad guys he is so darn wicked! There is a time though when I felt sorry for him.
This story is captivating from the start and I simply loved everything about it. At times it even made me laugh too which I love about a book that has such a heart stopping story. A definite must buy.
February 1, 2017
Hannah, after much soul searching takes a new job in Manchester away from her family for the first time. Don has left the forces and has a variety of skills that he can use for his own personal gain. Simon next door to Hannah along with Dianne become her close friends. Both Hannah’s work and personal life appear to be having “strange occurrences”. Who is watching her and why? There are couple of dark scenes where the perpetrator remembers his past which may not be to all tastes- however these are less than a page and worth getting through for the rest of the book. This is a well written book that envelopes you into the plot early on and keeps the pages turning. Good solid characters and scenarios that you can see in your mind’s eye. I could see this as a film or TV drama- possibly from behind the settee! A book to keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat. An ending to keep you hooked! A very enjoyable read.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
February 4, 2017
Just finished this. O................M........................G!
Full review when I've calmed down.
Full review when I've calmed down.
February 22, 2017
Good book although the ending was a bit shit which is why it only gets 3 stars
February 19, 2017
Wow, what dark places your mind has explored to bring us this captivating and chilling psychological thriller! The Watcher left me totally in shock – and Netta Newbound: if I’m losing any sleep tonight it is because of you! It seems to be a nice romantic novel: sweet country girl Hannah moves to the city because she has been promoted. Her new boss Max is hot, her neighbours are the ones she becomes friends with instantly. Life is good! Or so it seems until disturbing events happen …
Storyline
Redhead Hannah has recently moved to Manchester because of her job promotion – and has been so lucky to find an apartment for herself and a dream boss. Off limits, of course! Hannah welcomes the move from home to stand on her own two feet and have her own apartment. Neighbours Simon on the one and Diane on the other side could not have been nicer and the three of them become great friends. No worries in the world, you would think. But then her gym bag goes missing and reappears but Hannah senses something strange going on: these are not her clothes and she is sure she did not misplace her bag. She finds herself a bargain: a black dress with a fault. Back from the cleaner, the fault in the dress has mysteriously disappeared and the dress looks and feels as new. Then Angela, the woman who hired her and her boss’s right-hand snaps at her. And slowly Hannah is not so sure about her luck anymore.
The reader is aware of the man who had abducted a woman 17 years ago. In the current days, there is Don the security man who sets eyes upon Hannah and is overwhelmed by her beauty. Don is excited Hannah is going to be a regular with the firm. The fact that she does not recognise him immediately the second time they meet is a disappointment for Don. Still, he can wait and whatever happens, “if he couldn’t have her – no other fucker would.” It sounds like a threat and a threat it is. Then the first violent and gruesome murder is committed. And the next. The police have no idea what is happening right under their noses. Even more disturbing, is the fact that Don gradually becomes unhinged and his killer instincts almost uncontrollable. What follows is a nerve-racking and frightful series of events of which Hannah is barely aware but the pattern of which is only too clear to us, the readers, as we witness the horrors unfolding before us.
My Thoughts
What an intricate web Netta Newbound weaves! Appearances are deceiving and this psychological thriller is no exception to the rule. Some chapters read like a romance but it is most definitely not! It feels as if the sinister Prologue has nothing to do with the plot but of course, it does. Netta Newbound draws us cunningly into Hannah’s life with parts that feel like a sweet romance turning out to be the ultimate macabre love story! Be prepared because you will be shocked have difficulty believing what happens. I like the author’s writing style and the way she gently takes the reader by the hand – and keeps a firm hold of it, not letting go until the very last words. We, the readers, are only too aware of what is happening. I read the book in one session as it was so captivating; I simply had to know what was going on and how it would end. The writing style is great and entertaining, the characters are true to life. In my eyes a fabulous debut!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/the-wa...
Storyline
Redhead Hannah has recently moved to Manchester because of her job promotion – and has been so lucky to find an apartment for herself and a dream boss. Off limits, of course! Hannah welcomes the move from home to stand on her own two feet and have her own apartment. Neighbours Simon on the one and Diane on the other side could not have been nicer and the three of them become great friends. No worries in the world, you would think. But then her gym bag goes missing and reappears but Hannah senses something strange going on: these are not her clothes and she is sure she did not misplace her bag. She finds herself a bargain: a black dress with a fault. Back from the cleaner, the fault in the dress has mysteriously disappeared and the dress looks and feels as new. Then Angela, the woman who hired her and her boss’s right-hand snaps at her. And slowly Hannah is not so sure about her luck anymore.
The reader is aware of the man who had abducted a woman 17 years ago. In the current days, there is Don the security man who sets eyes upon Hannah and is overwhelmed by her beauty. Don is excited Hannah is going to be a regular with the firm. The fact that she does not recognise him immediately the second time they meet is a disappointment for Don. Still, he can wait and whatever happens, “if he couldn’t have her – no other fucker would.” It sounds like a threat and a threat it is. Then the first violent and gruesome murder is committed. And the next. The police have no idea what is happening right under their noses. Even more disturbing, is the fact that Don gradually becomes unhinged and his killer instincts almost uncontrollable. What follows is a nerve-racking and frightful series of events of which Hannah is barely aware but the pattern of which is only too clear to us, the readers, as we witness the horrors unfolding before us.
My Thoughts
What an intricate web Netta Newbound weaves! Appearances are deceiving and this psychological thriller is no exception to the rule. Some chapters read like a romance but it is most definitely not! It feels as if the sinister Prologue has nothing to do with the plot but of course, it does. Netta Newbound draws us cunningly into Hannah’s life with parts that feel like a sweet romance turning out to be the ultimate macabre love story! Be prepared because you will be shocked have difficulty believing what happens. I like the author’s writing style and the way she gently takes the reader by the hand – and keeps a firm hold of it, not letting go until the very last words. We, the readers, are only too aware of what is happening. I read the book in one session as it was so captivating; I simply had to know what was going on and how it would end. The writing style is great and entertaining, the characters are true to life. In my eyes a fabulous debut!
Read the review on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/the-wa...
February 3, 2017
Read 31/01/2017 - 03/02/2017 Rating 4.9 stars
Netta Newbound is an author I hadn't heard of prior to reading this book. I was,therefore, unsure what to expect but I was very impressed. The book is very well written and despite this being an advance copy I didn't notice any typo's or errors.
Hannah appears to have led a sheltered life within a very close family. She still lives with her parents and works locally in the advertisement section of a newspaper. On the back of her success lands her dream job in Manchester. The only downside being that she will have to move away from home. She is a very friendly and likeable character who appears to be a little naive.
She finds herself in the sights of The Watcher shortly after arriving in Manchester and soon finds her life spiralling out of control as love hate and murder become entangled with her in the middle.
The story is unique in that the police play a minor part and the story is told from the point of view of Hannah and The Watcher. The suspense starts on the first page and builds throughout the book as the reader is persuaded to keep reading.
This is a very gripping well written book with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing right to the end. The ending is a total shock.
For me personally I don't like the way it ended and have deducted a point for that but otherwise it was an excellent read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books who provided me with an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
#amreviewing #bloodhoundbooks @bloodhoundbooks #nettanewbound #thriller
February 11, 2017
Hannah, after much soul searching, takes a new job in Manchester away from her family for the first time.
Don has left the forces and has a variety of skills that he can use for his own personal gain.
Hannah moves to Manchester after a wonderful job offer and then sets off to find herself somewhere to live. He meets neighbour Simon and then Diane who is a doctor. Their friendship develops and they enjoy spending time together.
Someone is watching her. Why?
She meets her enigmatic boss Max and feels that he is singling her out for favouritism. This makes another female member of staff angry, but they appear to get past that.
Meanwhile, Don's imagination runs riot. He is not happy that Hannah and Max find an attraction and is then hellbent on destroying their newfound happiness. As her neighbour Simon had got close to her, he has dealt with that problem. He just disappears.
Don goes to great lengths in his mad plight to have Hannah for himself but ultimately this is his downfall.
A fast paced thrilling read.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound books for this opportunity.
Don has left the forces and has a variety of skills that he can use for his own personal gain.
Hannah moves to Manchester after a wonderful job offer and then sets off to find herself somewhere to live. He meets neighbour Simon and then Diane who is a doctor. Their friendship develops and they enjoy spending time together.
Someone is watching her. Why?
She meets her enigmatic boss Max and feels that he is singling her out for favouritism. This makes another female member of staff angry, but they appear to get past that.
Meanwhile, Don's imagination runs riot. He is not happy that Hannah and Max find an attraction and is then hellbent on destroying their newfound happiness. As her neighbour Simon had got close to her, he has dealt with that problem. He just disappears.
Don goes to great lengths in his mad plight to have Hannah for himself but ultimately this is his downfall.
A fast paced thrilling read.
I chose to read this book and all opinions in this review are all my own and completely unbiased. My thanks to Bloodhound books for this opportunity.
February 10, 2017
OMG! What a dark, edge of your seat thriller. I held my breathe throughout multiple parts of this book, I had forgotten to breathe. This is the first book I have read by Netta and it will not be my last either. WOW. The Watcher is brilliant with a very clever individual character! Hmm.. SHOCKING!!! I would highly recommend this story to you all, especially to those readers who love a dark thriller. I devoured this book in just over day. It is easy to read, written well and contains short chapters. Parts of this were extremely dark which may not be to everyone’s tastes but it worked well with this story and it just grabs you and your whole attention into it. Hard to put down.
I WANT MORE! You cannot just leave it like that!!! Another well deserved five stars from me. I need to calm down after that! I personally fell in love with Max too, he sounds the perfect man. Want to know more? Buy this book and dive in, you will not be disappointed. Enjoy.
I WANT MORE! You cannot just leave it like that!!! Another well deserved five stars from me. I need to calm down after that! I personally fell in love with Max too, he sounds the perfect man. Want to know more? Buy this book and dive in, you will not be disappointed. Enjoy.
February 12, 2017
I’ve never read one of Netta Newbound’s books before, but I’m glad I read this new release. The book bristles with menace from the off and doesn’t let up, even at the end. I’ll certainly be reading more of this author’s work. One of the deaths surrounding the likable heroine, Hanna, was particularly shocking and quite upset me … but I got over it, ha! I never saw it coming, which is always the sign of a fine thriller. The Watcher in the title is a particularly nasty piece of work; one of the most credible, evil serial killers I’ve come across and I’ve read about a fair number. I sense there could feasibly be a follow-up to this book, but I could be wrong. I frequently am. If there is a sequel, I will certainly make it my business to read it.
February 6, 2017
I've been a fan of Netta Newbound since reading her first book and always look forward to each new release. I wasn't disappointed with this book at all. I was genuinely gripped by the storyline and felt for each and every character affected by 'The Watcher'. Every part of this book kept me wanting more and I read it over the space of two days. The ending was a total shock, but it's just another part that leaves me wanting more. If there is any justice, this book will take Netta to the top of her profession, alongside Cornwell and King, and long may she remain there!
February 17, 2017
Netta has a simple, but hugely effective and engaging writing style. Unflashy, but entirely immersive, her use of 3rd person- past tense throughout is a welcome break from the 1st person-present tense narrative that has become a quite dull characteristic of the genre, and quite perfect for the story she has crafted...and what a story.
Newbound's characterisation, plotting and pace are pitch perfect, propelling her story at velocity and writing every ounce of emotion from her characters, as well as her readers.
Excellent work.
Newbound's characterisation, plotting and pace are pitch perfect, propelling her story at velocity and writing every ounce of emotion from her characters, as well as her readers.
Excellent work.
March 25, 2018
Full of menace, this is a fast paced read with some truly chilling moments. I don’t think I will ever forget the freezer scene. If you love to hate evil serial killers, then look no further—The Watcher really is for you. If this book were a movie I would definitely watch it from behind the sofa, probably with my eyes closed at times. The ending might not be to everyone’s tastes but I say ‘bravo’ to the author for daring to be brave.
Wow Netta, that was some ride you took us all on. A gripping and compulsive read, shocking in places, upsetting in others.
Wow Netta, that was some ride you took us all on. A gripping and compulsive read, shocking in places, upsetting in others.
March 1, 2017
The balance between easy, fluid writing and horrific depravity was masterfully created in this gem of a book. I do love a good stalker/psycho character and in Don we meet the British Bateman without the shite taste in music.
This was also a genuine bargain at under 2 notes on the kindle. I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
This was also a genuine bargain at under 2 notes on the kindle. I'll definitely be reading more from this author.
February 21, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and what a brilliant book to start with. I was hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down. Don sent shivers down my spine, he is so evil. Fantastic.
January 19, 2018
Really good story and I didn't see that end coming :)
January 14, 2018
"One thing was certain - if he couldn't have her - no other fucker would."
You know the kind of book that you makes you hope for good to overcome evil, but at the same time has you on the edge of your seat waiting for the worst? The kind that when you finish it, you just kind of stare off in to space with your mouth slightly agape, not believing you read what you just read? The kind, that when you turn off the light to go to sleep you wonder, Is someone is watching me right now?" Well, this book is all of that and more!
Hannah McLaughlin is ready to move on from her sleepy-town life. She's looking for a change. Some excitement in her life. When the perfect job opportunity arises in the city, she jumps at the chance. She's settling in, making friends, and she's caught the eye of her boss, Max Myers. Everything is going just as she hoped. But strange things keep happening - a feeling that she's being watched, that someone's been in her flat when she's not there. When mysterious, and tragic events befall those closest to her, is it just a coincidence or are they all somehow connected?
Donald Henry was taken with her from the first time he saw Hannah. Now, he just has to make her his. No one will get in his way.
This was my first read by Netta Newbound. Now, I can't wait to read them all!! If you love a good suspense, thriller, twisted read, then I highly recommend this one!
You know the kind of book that you makes you hope for good to overcome evil, but at the same time has you on the edge of your seat waiting for the worst? The kind that when you finish it, you just kind of stare off in to space with your mouth slightly agape, not believing you read what you just read? The kind, that when you turn off the light to go to sleep you wonder, Is someone is watching me right now?" Well, this book is all of that and more!
Hannah McLaughlin is ready to move on from her sleepy-town life. She's looking for a change. Some excitement in her life. When the perfect job opportunity arises in the city, she jumps at the chance. She's settling in, making friends, and she's caught the eye of her boss, Max Myers. Everything is going just as she hoped. But strange things keep happening - a feeling that she's being watched, that someone's been in her flat when she's not there. When mysterious, and tragic events befall those closest to her, is it just a coincidence or are they all somehow connected?
Donald Henry was taken with her from the first time he saw Hannah. Now, he just has to make her his. No one will get in his way.
This was my first read by Netta Newbound. Now, I can't wait to read them all!! If you love a good suspense, thriller, twisted read, then I highly recommend this one!
January 27, 2020
A love story, and a serial killer story. Divided into equal parts. And planned exactly like that.
February 11, 2017
Hannah leaves her family behind for a job in Manchester. She soon makes friends and falls in love with her new boss. But then ... snap ... people close to her start dying.
Judging by the high rating this book has received so far, I am clearly in the minority but this just didn't work for me. It read more like a romance novel with a creepy stalker/killer dude on the side. It wasn't gripping, it didn't really build up to anything much and some chapters merely slowed down the pacing.
Judging by the high rating this book has received so far, I am clearly in the minority but this just didn't work for me. It read more like a romance novel with a creepy stalker/killer dude on the side. It wasn't gripping, it didn't really build up to anything much and some chapters merely slowed down the pacing.
February 5, 2017
I cannot recommend this jaw-droppingly brilliant book enough! I could not put it down.
Hannah is a very likeable girl who is offered a promotion working in the city and takes the opportunity to move away from her loving parents. She finds a flat and gets to know her neighbours; she loves her new job and has caught the boss's eye. Life could not be better.
Strange things start to happen but what is the link? The story is very clever, twisted but brilliant.
I read this book in one day as I just NEEDED to keep reading. Netta Newbound is definitely an author I will look to for future reads.
Hannah is a very likeable girl who is offered a promotion working in the city and takes the opportunity to move away from her loving parents. She finds a flat and gets to know her neighbours; she loves her new job and has caught the boss's eye. Life could not be better.
Strange things start to happen but what is the link? The story is very clever, twisted but brilliant.
I read this book in one day as I just NEEDED to keep reading. Netta Newbound is definitely an author I will look to for future reads.
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