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The Puppet Master
Looking for your next unputdownable psychological thriller? Then try Abigail Osborne's unmissable The Puppet Master, a stunning thriller full of twists and turns.
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknown to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossom between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
Who is really pulling the strings? And are Adam and Billie both being played?
One thing is for sure, The Master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknown to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossom between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
Who is really pulling the strings? And are Adam and Billie both being played?
One thing is for sure, The Master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2017
81 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
November 14, 2017
The Puppet Master is a chilling story of deception and secrets on all levels. A lifetime of manipulation. A lifelike portrayal of abuse of the worst kind. The reality of grooming in close quarters. The use of fear and coercion and flattery.
At the start I was intrigued why Billie was so frightened, even scared of her own shadow. A grown woman having been to university working in a busy call centre shouldn’t be so paranoid and constantly looking over her shoulder. But the more I read as the book jumped back and forth between the present and the past, the more I understood why Billie was like it.
Now then Eric, he’s a man who manipulates people. He makes them believe it’s for their benefit but really it’s for his own means. He uses every trick in the book to get what he wants. The epitome of evil!
This is a cracking debut from Mrs Osborne. The tension she creates in her writing, you could cut through with a knife. I will be interested to see how she follows this thriller up!
Big thanks to Bloodhound Books for my advanced copy of The Puppet Master.
At the start I was intrigued why Billie was so frightened, even scared of her own shadow. A grown woman having been to university working in a busy call centre shouldn’t be so paranoid and constantly looking over her shoulder. But the more I read as the book jumped back and forth between the present and the past, the more I understood why Billie was like it.
Now then Eric, he’s a man who manipulates people. He makes them believe it’s for their benefit but really it’s for his own means. He uses every trick in the book to get what he wants. The epitome of evil!
This is a cracking debut from Mrs Osborne. The tension she creates in her writing, you could cut through with a knife. I will be interested to see how she follows this thriller up!
Big thanks to Bloodhound Books for my advanced copy of The Puppet Master.
August 28, 2021
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Lovebookstours.
The Puppet Master is a very cleverly woven story about fear, emotional torture and a lifetime of abuse - physical, mental and emotional.
Billie has escaped her past but is always looking over she shoulder and cannot relax. She has set routines and doesn't have contact with anyone except her elderly neighbour. But what is she so scared of.
Adam enters Billies life but he has revenge in his sights for something terrible Billies supposed to have done and he wants to garner the truth from her and expose her and her lies. But Adam begins questioning who the lier really is and who to believe - surely she can't be that good of an actress!!
This story had the hairs on the back of my neck stood up!The story is very believable in the aspect of abuse and trauma and Abigail Osborne has clearly done her homework.
This thriller is definitely not one to miss!
The Puppet Master is a very cleverly woven story about fear, emotional torture and a lifetime of abuse - physical, mental and emotional.
Billie has escaped her past but is always looking over she shoulder and cannot relax. She has set routines and doesn't have contact with anyone except her elderly neighbour. But what is she so scared of.
Adam enters Billies life but he has revenge in his sights for something terrible Billies supposed to have done and he wants to garner the truth from her and expose her and her lies. But Adam begins questioning who the lier really is and who to believe - surely she can't be that good of an actress!!
This story had the hairs on the back of my neck stood up!The story is very believable in the aspect of abuse and trauma and Abigail Osborne has clearly done her homework.
This thriller is definitely not one to miss!
November 7, 2016
The Puppet Master is a story that alternates between the main characters Billie and Adam.
From the start it is obvious that Billie has gone through something traumatic in her past that she is trying to escape. She is keeping her head down and is literally just existing. She is set in her mind that she will always be on her own and never be happy, but that changes when she meets Adam.
Adam seems to good to be true. Most people would probably just give up when someone makes it obvious they want to keep themselves to themselves, but Adam is determined to get through Billie’s brick wall that she has surrounded herself with and find out who the real person is that she seems to be to scared to reveal.
There is a connection between these two that seems to grow as the story goes on. As the pair get to know each other, there is a definite spark that starts to grow.
I won’t say to much about the man that seems to hold the strings to these two characters, but without a doubt he is one seriously evil and deceptive excuse for a human being.
The story starts off in present day, then going back to when Billies life started to change for the worse and leading back to present day again. I enjoyed how this was done as right from the off the author grabs the readers attention and draws us in. Then the story starts to build up in tension until wham! We’re back in present day.
The story certainly has some surprises in store for the readers and it held my interest throughout. At times an uncomfortable read but a definite must read for fans of psychological thrillers.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
From the start it is obvious that Billie has gone through something traumatic in her past that she is trying to escape. She is keeping her head down and is literally just existing. She is set in her mind that she will always be on her own and never be happy, but that changes when she meets Adam.
Adam seems to good to be true. Most people would probably just give up when someone makes it obvious they want to keep themselves to themselves, but Adam is determined to get through Billie’s brick wall that she has surrounded herself with and find out who the real person is that she seems to be to scared to reveal.
There is a connection between these two that seems to grow as the story goes on. As the pair get to know each other, there is a definite spark that starts to grow.
I won’t say to much about the man that seems to hold the strings to these two characters, but without a doubt he is one seriously evil and deceptive excuse for a human being.
The story starts off in present day, then going back to when Billies life started to change for the worse and leading back to present day again. I enjoyed how this was done as right from the off the author grabs the readers attention and draws us in. Then the story starts to build up in tension until wham! We’re back in present day.
The story certainly has some surprises in store for the readers and it held my interest throughout. At times an uncomfortable read but a definite must read for fans of psychological thrillers.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
July 11, 2017
Wonderful written. Some of the story takes place in a book shop. Adam rushed into the bookshop at breakneck speed. He hadn't finished his article for his fortnightly column. The bookshop was his last hope of making his deadline. It's nice to know that the author Abigail has the same passion like me and you for reading. She has in fact got over 1000 books and she can't wait to hit the 5000 mark. This is Abigail's first novel and right now she is working hard on her next book. I wish Abigail all the best with her next book xx.
September 10, 2021
If you love dark thrillers - this book is for you!! A creepy story of master manipulation. Trigger warning: sexual abuse (though not graphically detailed).
Blurb:
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknownst to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossoms between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
Who is really pulling the strings? And are Adam and Billie both being played?
One thing is for sure, The Master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
This book definitely takes you for a ride down some twisty streets. Told in alternating viewpoints of Billie and Adam, the reader can sense that there is some sort of traumatic event in the past, but the author keeps it hazy.
For the first half of the book, the author keeps us guessing about who is lying, and who is telling the truth. Once the traumatic event(s) is revealed, it is difficult to digest. The manipulation of characters in this book was on a monumental scale. The author was deft at leading the reader to understand how the deception was allowed to happen.
The last half of the book is a mix of adrenaline, disgust, anger, realization and finally retribution. Be sure you are ready for some difficult subjects, then strap yourself in for this read!!
Thank you to @lovebookstours @abigailosborneauthor and @bloodhound.books for including me on this tour! #AD
Blurb:
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknownst to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossoms between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
Who is really pulling the strings? And are Adam and Billie both being played?
One thing is for sure, The Master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
This book definitely takes you for a ride down some twisty streets. Told in alternating viewpoints of Billie and Adam, the reader can sense that there is some sort of traumatic event in the past, but the author keeps it hazy.
For the first half of the book, the author keeps us guessing about who is lying, and who is telling the truth. Once the traumatic event(s) is revealed, it is difficult to digest. The manipulation of characters in this book was on a monumental scale. The author was deft at leading the reader to understand how the deception was allowed to happen.
The last half of the book is a mix of adrenaline, disgust, anger, realization and finally retribution. Be sure you are ready for some difficult subjects, then strap yourself in for this read!!
Thank you to @lovebookstours @abigailosborneauthor and @bloodhound.books for including me on this tour! #AD
November 17, 2017
Abigail Osborne has tackled some dark, serious subject matter in this debut novel, and has done it incredibly well. Her cleverly structured story is both engrossing and chilling in equal measures, and the short, sharp chapters leave the reader hanging on for more.
Billie leads a lonely life in a spartan flat with just her cat for company. She works in a mundane job and occasionally ventures out to the cafe in a nearby bookshop. The author reveals very little about Billie and the reader is left to make their own decisions and their own judgements on her.
Adam is a reporter, he's ambitious and determined to find a story that will make his name. When he spots Billie, sitting alone in the cafe, he recognises her. Not only could Billie's story earn him the fame that he's hungry for, but he could make her pay for the things that he know she's done in her past.
Again, the author does not reveal exactly what Adam is accusing Billie of, but it's clear that he is angry and out for justice. As Billie and Adam's relationship progresses, it is only the reader who is aware of Adam's motive for friendship.
Alongside Adam and Billie's growing friendship, the author introduces an anonymous voice. A voice that is terrifying, a voice that belongs to someone who knows both of them. A voice of a person who is controlling them. The voice of the Puppet Master.
The reader is taken on a journey that reveals disturbing and quite chilling secrets around every corner. This author has an excellent insight into the human brain, and how the effects of incidents from the past can impact on the present.
As the truth is carefully and cleverly revealed, the full horror of the miscarriage of justice and the hidden secrets are exposed. It is both shocking, although not totally unexpected.
The Puppet Master is an intelligent and well crafted debut. There were tiny bits in my original copy that could do with tightening up, and a re-edit, but I've been told that Bloodhound Books have dealt with that in the latest version. Despite this, I found it a chilling story, with characters that are built slowly and very lifelike.
A recommended read from me and I'll look forward to reading more from this author.
Billie leads a lonely life in a spartan flat with just her cat for company. She works in a mundane job and occasionally ventures out to the cafe in a nearby bookshop. The author reveals very little about Billie and the reader is left to make their own decisions and their own judgements on her.
Adam is a reporter, he's ambitious and determined to find a story that will make his name. When he spots Billie, sitting alone in the cafe, he recognises her. Not only could Billie's story earn him the fame that he's hungry for, but he could make her pay for the things that he know she's done in her past.
Again, the author does not reveal exactly what Adam is accusing Billie of, but it's clear that he is angry and out for justice. As Billie and Adam's relationship progresses, it is only the reader who is aware of Adam's motive for friendship.
Alongside Adam and Billie's growing friendship, the author introduces an anonymous voice. A voice that is terrifying, a voice that belongs to someone who knows both of them. A voice of a person who is controlling them. The voice of the Puppet Master.
The reader is taken on a journey that reveals disturbing and quite chilling secrets around every corner. This author has an excellent insight into the human brain, and how the effects of incidents from the past can impact on the present.
As the truth is carefully and cleverly revealed, the full horror of the miscarriage of justice and the hidden secrets are exposed. It is both shocking, although not totally unexpected.
The Puppet Master is an intelligent and well crafted debut. There were tiny bits in my original copy that could do with tightening up, and a re-edit, but I've been told that Bloodhound Books have dealt with that in the latest version. Despite this, I found it a chilling story, with characters that are built slowly and very lifelike.
A recommended read from me and I'll look forward to reading more from this author.
May 11, 2018
The story, set out in three parts, beginning in the present day, followed by flashback chapters from the past, before returning again to the present. Chapters alternate between Billie’s and Adam’s perspectives, with the occasional diary entry from an anonymous, shadowy figure who obviously knows Billie and is stalking her. This approach defines the characters and their innermost feelings, building the suspense. Billie lives alone, with only her cat for company, avoiding contact with other people as much as possible. Something terrible has happened to her in the past which has had huge repercussions on her life.
'Billie stole down the street avoiding all eye contact and people. Once a week, on Sunday, she braved the world to visit the bookstore not far from her flat. One Upon a Time had thousands of books and a quaint little cafe; it was her haven.'
Adam is a journalist, determined to expose Billie and exact revenge for the lives he believes she ruined. He seizes his chance when an unexpected opportunity arises and sets about trying to win her confidence, using all his charm to break down the barriers and gain her friendship. It’s an uphill struggle, Billie is very vulnerable and terrified of forming any sort of relationship. Very little information is disclosed about either of their backgrounds at this point in the narrative and the reader is kept in the dark for quite a while, which works well. I wondered what on earth Billie had done to cause such a reaction in Adam.
'As he walked towards her, a plan formulated in his mind. His instinct for a story was awakened and he knew he had the opportunity of a lifetime.This could be his ticket to a better career and, more importantly, he could get justice.'
Billie suffered through a traumatic childhood with little to no support from her family. The lasting effects are her self-imposed isolation and panic attacks. Young Adam was devastated when he lost his mother. His father was unable to cope, neglected Adam and started drinking heavily. Adam was raised by his uncle, who became the young boy’s role model.
This is a story which revolves around the power of manipulation, how the manipulator controls by either friendliness, fear and/or deviousness, and sometimes leading by example. The debilitating effect on Billie and her conflicting emotions as she becomes closer to Adam are portrayed very well. The middle section of the narrative was less engaging and not quite as believable as the beginning, even as it shows how the chilling unscrupulousness of the manipulator breeds fear and repulsion and the reason for Adam’s fixation on Billie begins to become clear. It picks up again towards the end and I enjoyed how it plays out. The lack of suspects, twists and false leads, means it’s not hard to realise who the antagonist is. The book does convey very well how children can be betrayed by those they should be able to trust implicitly and disturbing subjects are covered without being gratuitous. I’ll be interested to see what the author tackles in her next book.
'Billie stole down the street avoiding all eye contact and people. Once a week, on Sunday, she braved the world to visit the bookstore not far from her flat. One Upon a Time had thousands of books and a quaint little cafe; it was her haven.'
Adam is a journalist, determined to expose Billie and exact revenge for the lives he believes she ruined. He seizes his chance when an unexpected opportunity arises and sets about trying to win her confidence, using all his charm to break down the barriers and gain her friendship. It’s an uphill struggle, Billie is very vulnerable and terrified of forming any sort of relationship. Very little information is disclosed about either of their backgrounds at this point in the narrative and the reader is kept in the dark for quite a while, which works well. I wondered what on earth Billie had done to cause such a reaction in Adam.
'As he walked towards her, a plan formulated in his mind. His instinct for a story was awakened and he knew he had the opportunity of a lifetime.This could be his ticket to a better career and, more importantly, he could get justice.'
Billie suffered through a traumatic childhood with little to no support from her family. The lasting effects are her self-imposed isolation and panic attacks. Young Adam was devastated when he lost his mother. His father was unable to cope, neglected Adam and started drinking heavily. Adam was raised by his uncle, who became the young boy’s role model.
This is a story which revolves around the power of manipulation, how the manipulator controls by either friendliness, fear and/or deviousness, and sometimes leading by example. The debilitating effect on Billie and her conflicting emotions as she becomes closer to Adam are portrayed very well. The middle section of the narrative was less engaging and not quite as believable as the beginning, even as it shows how the chilling unscrupulousness of the manipulator breeds fear and repulsion and the reason for Adam’s fixation on Billie begins to become clear. It picks up again towards the end and I enjoyed how it plays out. The lack of suspects, twists and false leads, means it’s not hard to realise who the antagonist is. The book does convey very well how children can be betrayed by those they should be able to trust implicitly and disturbing subjects are covered without being gratuitous. I’ll be interested to see what the author tackles in her next book.
September 29, 2016
This was SUCH a great debut novel from a very talented author. She weaves a tale which was VERY twisty and turny and extremely cleverly intertwined. I found myself desperate to know what Billie had done and didn’t know whether to love her or hate her, trip her up or protect her. And I had no idea whether Adam was genuine or not. And Eric! Well, I don’t even want to speak about him!
I loved the way that the story was told from three different perspectives. It was really well written and easy to follow. This book had me questioning how I would behave if such a similar situation arrived and really got me thinking.
And the ending. Wow! I found myself getting really emotional. I really invested time in these characters and really wanted to help them and hoped that they could find a way through the horrors they’d had to live. Well, everyone except for Eric! And then the epilogue blew me away! It didn’t tie everything up in loose ends and if there is to be a book 2 I want to read it and I want to read it right now!
I loved the way that the story was told from three different perspectives. It was really well written and easy to follow. This book had me questioning how I would behave if such a similar situation arrived and really got me thinking.
And the ending. Wow! I found myself getting really emotional. I really invested time in these characters and really wanted to help them and hoped that they could find a way through the horrors they’d had to live. Well, everyone except for Eric! And then the epilogue blew me away! It didn’t tie everything up in loose ends and if there is to be a book 2 I want to read it and I want to read it right now!
September 28, 2016
What a fabulous debut novel this is from Abigail Osborne! I don’t know what I was expecting but it definitely wasn’t this emotional love story twisted around a creepy chiller that pulled me in from the first page.
The Puppet Master has one of the most vile and creepy villains I have come across in quite some time. As you can tell from the title, both Adam and Billie are being controlled and manipulated by this shadowy figure that we only meet at the start through his diary entries. Billie,though, was a character that I took to immediately with her sweet nature although I really wanted her to grow a bit more backbone as I hated to see her hiding away from the world. But as the plot progressed I could see exactly why she had retreated into her own little world with only Bobby the cat for company.
I liked the way that this was told in alternating viewpoints, from both Billie and Adam, as it often told the same events from their differing perspectives. And as the tension started to increase those chapters got shorter and sharper until a ferociously shocking climax which didn’t exactly play out the way I thought it would. Some of the scenes were difficult to read at times due to their emotional intensity but the author doesn’t hold back in her punchy plotting to get her story told. There was one small chapter towards the end that didn’t quite work for me but that’s only a little quibble for me personally and it certainly didn’t deter from my eagerness to finish the final few pages.
For a debut novelist Abigail Osborne has done a great job of making the reader care about her characters and I can tell she felt very connected to them. She has a natural flare for storytelling and has drawn a lot from her personal emotions so I can’t wait to see where she goes from here!
The Puppet Master has one of the most vile and creepy villains I have come across in quite some time. As you can tell from the title, both Adam and Billie are being controlled and manipulated by this shadowy figure that we only meet at the start through his diary entries. Billie,though, was a character that I took to immediately with her sweet nature although I really wanted her to grow a bit more backbone as I hated to see her hiding away from the world. But as the plot progressed I could see exactly why she had retreated into her own little world with only Bobby the cat for company.
I liked the way that this was told in alternating viewpoints, from both Billie and Adam, as it often told the same events from their differing perspectives. And as the tension started to increase those chapters got shorter and sharper until a ferociously shocking climax which didn’t exactly play out the way I thought it would. Some of the scenes were difficult to read at times due to their emotional intensity but the author doesn’t hold back in her punchy plotting to get her story told. There was one small chapter towards the end that didn’t quite work for me but that’s only a little quibble for me personally and it certainly didn’t deter from my eagerness to finish the final few pages.
For a debut novelist Abigail Osborne has done a great job of making the reader care about her characters and I can tell she felt very connected to them. She has a natural flare for storytelling and has drawn a lot from her personal emotions so I can’t wait to see where she goes from here!
February 5, 2017
Rating 3.5*
'Manipulated by fear and love…
could you cut the strings and take back control?'
The Puppet Master is the debut novel from blogger and author Abigail Osborne.
Manipulation and manipulators seems to be a recurring theme in a few books I’ve read recently. It has started me wondering about the extent of manipulation in the world I/we live in….
Abigail Osborne has tackled it in a rather unusual manner in The Puppet Master
A Puppet Master or Puppeteer is defined in Wikipedia as:
‘a person who manipulates an inanimate object that might be shaped like a human, animal or mythical creature, or quite easily might be any kind of object to create the illusion that the puppet is “alive.” The puppeteer may be visible to or hidden from the audience. A puppeteer can operate a puppet indirectly by the use of strings, rods, wires, electronics or directly by his or her own hands placed inside the puppet or holding it externally or any other part of the body- such as the legs.’
In Abigail Osborne’s book the puppets are very very real as is the master…
Billie and Adam are trying to live their lives the best they can. Both have had very traumatic childhoods, both have lived shattered lives. What both are completely unaware of though is that their lives have been tied together for many years, manipulated and controlled by one rather disgusting character.
Billie is a very sad individual. Always hiding in a corner, unable to deal with people in a close fashion, she is a product of a childhood no child should ever have to experience, Left alone now to fend for herself, her life exists around her cat and her books. Panic attacks have become part of Billie’s life and her only form of protection is to isolate herself from a society that let her down.
While growing up, for reasons I found difficult to fathom, Billie’s mother, grandmother and sister all seemed to abandon her. There was no adult that Billie could turn to when she needed help to protect herself from the one person she had trusted. Billie’s mother is portrayed as a very selfish lady, undeserving of any sympathy from the reader. As a mother, she is so obsessed with herself and her own happiness, Billie becomes a very damaged and lonely young girl.
Adam as a character takes awhile to warm to. At the beginning, his motives for wanting to get to know Billie are muddied. He has his reasons and as a journalist, his instinct throws him a curve ball.
Adam has also lead a tragic life. His beloved mother passed away early in his youth. His father, unable to cope, took to the drink. Adam’s salvation came in the form of his uncle, a man Adam adored and aspired to. Adam grew up under the protection and guidance of his uncle, almost to the point of adoration. An incident in Adam’s life resulted in a life-changing experience and Adam has felt it his duty to discover what really happened and expose the person responsible for it.
What Adam and Billie were completely unaware of is that they were both being used – manipulated by an evil, despicable individual who has no compunction in ruining lives in order to achieve his goal.
Wikipedia Definition ~ Manipulation
‘The process of manipulation involves bringing an unknowing victim under the domination of the manipulator, often using deception, and using the victim to serve their own purposes.’
Abigail Osborne has portrayed this notion to a frightening degree in The Puppet Master. However, at times in the novel, I did get extremely frustrated and cross as there were certain scenes I felt I had to suspend my belief a little. Except for Billie, I didn’t particularly like any of the characters.
The Puppet Master is a very interesting debut from Abigail Osborne and I don’t doubt that we will see plenty more from Abigail in the future as her writing develops further.
'Manipulated by fear and love…
could you cut the strings and take back control?'
The Puppet Master is the debut novel from blogger and author Abigail Osborne.
Manipulation and manipulators seems to be a recurring theme in a few books I’ve read recently. It has started me wondering about the extent of manipulation in the world I/we live in….
Abigail Osborne has tackled it in a rather unusual manner in The Puppet Master
A Puppet Master or Puppeteer is defined in Wikipedia as:
‘a person who manipulates an inanimate object that might be shaped like a human, animal or mythical creature, or quite easily might be any kind of object to create the illusion that the puppet is “alive.” The puppeteer may be visible to or hidden from the audience. A puppeteer can operate a puppet indirectly by the use of strings, rods, wires, electronics or directly by his or her own hands placed inside the puppet or holding it externally or any other part of the body- such as the legs.’
In Abigail Osborne’s book the puppets are very very real as is the master…
Billie and Adam are trying to live their lives the best they can. Both have had very traumatic childhoods, both have lived shattered lives. What both are completely unaware of though is that their lives have been tied together for many years, manipulated and controlled by one rather disgusting character.
Billie is a very sad individual. Always hiding in a corner, unable to deal with people in a close fashion, she is a product of a childhood no child should ever have to experience, Left alone now to fend for herself, her life exists around her cat and her books. Panic attacks have become part of Billie’s life and her only form of protection is to isolate herself from a society that let her down.
While growing up, for reasons I found difficult to fathom, Billie’s mother, grandmother and sister all seemed to abandon her. There was no adult that Billie could turn to when she needed help to protect herself from the one person she had trusted. Billie’s mother is portrayed as a very selfish lady, undeserving of any sympathy from the reader. As a mother, she is so obsessed with herself and her own happiness, Billie becomes a very damaged and lonely young girl.
Adam as a character takes awhile to warm to. At the beginning, his motives for wanting to get to know Billie are muddied. He has his reasons and as a journalist, his instinct throws him a curve ball.
Adam has also lead a tragic life. His beloved mother passed away early in his youth. His father, unable to cope, took to the drink. Adam’s salvation came in the form of his uncle, a man Adam adored and aspired to. Adam grew up under the protection and guidance of his uncle, almost to the point of adoration. An incident in Adam’s life resulted in a life-changing experience and Adam has felt it his duty to discover what really happened and expose the person responsible for it.
What Adam and Billie were completely unaware of is that they were both being used – manipulated by an evil, despicable individual who has no compunction in ruining lives in order to achieve his goal.
Wikipedia Definition ~ Manipulation
‘The process of manipulation involves bringing an unknowing victim under the domination of the manipulator, often using deception, and using the victim to serve their own purposes.’
Abigail Osborne has portrayed this notion to a frightening degree in The Puppet Master. However, at times in the novel, I did get extremely frustrated and cross as there were certain scenes I felt I had to suspend my belief a little. Except for Billie, I didn’t particularly like any of the characters.
The Puppet Master is a very interesting debut from Abigail Osborne and I don’t doubt that we will see plenty more from Abigail in the future as her writing develops further.
September 27, 2016
Well I couldn't wait to get stuck into this beauty and I seriously can not believe this book is a debut novel. The Puppet Master had me gripped from start to finish I devoured it in one afternoon, it is totally disturbing and unputdownable….I freaking loved it!! And I have been dying to tell the world what I think because I loved it so much. This is one of those books that gets in your head and stays with you along time after reading it.
So the story starts off where we meet Billie and is set from the present day to 2018. Billie is off to visit the bookshop where she goes every week. From the author's description we get a feeling something isn't right and is clearly portrayed that she is afraid with her thoughts. But then soon enough we are introduced to Adam, who sparks a relationship that could free her from the terror that controls her. knowing who she is after convincing her to open up but soon realises that all is not as it seems. Most of their lives have been unknowingly governed by the desires and needs of someone who considers himself their master.
One thing is for sure. The master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
This is a very twisted story that will have you on the edge of the seat. The author certainly knows how to keep the reader on tenterhooks that's sure. It is extremely well crafted building up a story that is wrote in two parts. The first part is set from the present day through to 2018 and part is the past and all the way through the chapters alternate between the two characters Billie and Adam. Then boom the whole story between the two characters falls into place where found myself saying OMG…. NO WAY. But it doesn't end there,with more twists and turns all I can say is you're in for an absolute treat. This story took me through lots of different emotions, from emotional to anxious has if I was feeling the same has Billie.Seriously this is a corker of a story and this is most definitely one of my favorite reads for 2016.
I highly recommend this giving it 5 well deserved stars.I can't wait to read more by Abigail.
So the story starts off where we meet Billie and is set from the present day to 2018. Billie is off to visit the bookshop where she goes every week. From the author's description we get a feeling something isn't right and is clearly portrayed that she is afraid with her thoughts. But then soon enough we are introduced to Adam, who sparks a relationship that could free her from the terror that controls her. knowing who she is after convincing her to open up but soon realises that all is not as it seems. Most of their lives have been unknowingly governed by the desires and needs of someone who considers himself their master.
One thing is for sure. The master wants his puppets back – and he’ll do anything to keep them.
This is a very twisted story that will have you on the edge of the seat. The author certainly knows how to keep the reader on tenterhooks that's sure. It is extremely well crafted building up a story that is wrote in two parts. The first part is set from the present day through to 2018 and part is the past and all the way through the chapters alternate between the two characters Billie and Adam. Then boom the whole story between the two characters falls into place where found myself saying OMG…. NO WAY. But it doesn't end there,with more twists and turns all I can say is you're in for an absolute treat. This story took me through lots of different emotions, from emotional to anxious has if I was feeling the same has Billie.Seriously this is a corker of a story and this is most definitely one of my favorite reads for 2016.
I highly recommend this giving it 5 well deserved stars.I can't wait to read more by Abigail.
December 22, 2017
Billie has lost everything that meant anything to her, she is worthless, disowned by her family and has no friends but more than that she is petrified that ‘he’ will find her. It isn’t a matter of if, it is a matter of when. No-one believed her before because he was so clever, everyone likes ‘him’, and no-one would believe her now. So Billie watches, Billie is careful, Billie is well and truly broken.
When Adam shows Billie a little kindness she feels conflicted. She never lets anyone near her anymore but the poor girl has been starved of genuine human kindness and contact for so long. Can she trust this stranger that is nibbling away the wall round her she has built?
To begin with this story is told in alternating chapters of present day and the past by both Billie and Adam and it soon becomes clear that they have someone in common in their pasts. The same bloke, but whoa there, because it sounds like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. My skin began to crawl and the little hairs that come up when danger is about began to rise, then came the shiver that went through my body like a Mexican wave.
This is a brilliant read. It is raw and honest and it tells this story from everyone’s side. It was a little disturbing to be inside one particular mind knowing where the story was going but boy did the author nail it! Each character was perfectly captured in each scene that played out and I just loved how the dynamics changed as the story progressed. A superb debut novel.
When Adam shows Billie a little kindness she feels conflicted. She never lets anyone near her anymore but the poor girl has been starved of genuine human kindness and contact for so long. Can she trust this stranger that is nibbling away the wall round her she has built?
To begin with this story is told in alternating chapters of present day and the past by both Billie and Adam and it soon becomes clear that they have someone in common in their pasts. The same bloke, but whoa there, because it sounds like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. My skin began to crawl and the little hairs that come up when danger is about began to rise, then came the shiver that went through my body like a Mexican wave.
This is a brilliant read. It is raw and honest and it tells this story from everyone’s side. It was a little disturbing to be inside one particular mind knowing where the story was going but boy did the author nail it! Each character was perfectly captured in each scene that played out and I just loved how the dynamics changed as the story progressed. A superb debut novel.
November 16, 2017
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For a debut novel this book is fantastic! The writing is superb and the plot is set at a brilliant pace for the storyline, I was hooked from the beginning and having seen some of the other reviews of the book I knew that I would be in for a real treat - and I was not disappointed!!
The book is creepy and full of suspense, plenty of twists and turns and you really are left guessing about what is going to happen next - definitely one of the best books I have read this year of this genre from a debut author! I have given the book five stars and recommend it to any one who loves a well written psychological thriller - it really is an excellent book!
For a debut novel this book is fantastic! The writing is superb and the plot is set at a brilliant pace for the storyline, I was hooked from the beginning and having seen some of the other reviews of the book I knew that I would be in for a real treat - and I was not disappointed!!
The book is creepy and full of suspense, plenty of twists and turns and you really are left guessing about what is going to happen next - definitely one of the best books I have read this year of this genre from a debut author! I have given the book five stars and recommend it to any one who loves a well written psychological thriller - it really is an excellent book!
February 8, 2017
I have read lots of thrillers, but this was something else entirely. A romantic thriller perhaps?
Grabbed from the first chapters this had me enthralled, the voice in my head shouting for Billie, willing her on and hoping she'd make it through. I rarely find a book that both makes me so angry and yet so hopeful.
This is both dark and very disturbing but yet there's a softness too, those romantic moments creep in and suddenly you're hopeful again. So very well written, I was investing myself in Billie's life, willing her to see that she could have a life, happiness and love.
I will wait with bated breath for your next book Abigail Osborne because this was fabulous.
Grabbed from the first chapters this had me enthralled, the voice in my head shouting for Billie, willing her on and hoping she'd make it through. I rarely find a book that both makes me so angry and yet so hopeful.
This is both dark and very disturbing but yet there's a softness too, those romantic moments creep in and suddenly you're hopeful again. So very well written, I was investing myself in Billie's life, willing her to see that she could have a life, happiness and love.
I will wait with bated breath for your next book Abigail Osborne because this was fabulous.
September 7, 2021
Jeepers!!! This is quite a book, I tell ya.
A psychological thriller, bursting at the seams with tension, suspense, and sooooo many emotions….!
Part 1 is set in the present day, told from three POVs - Billie, Adam, and an unknown… Straight away you understand the “unknown” is out for something baaaaad. Billie is likeable but clearly fragile. Adam is out to get answers from her due to something she did in her past. What was so horrible to make Adam despise her? To make her the way she is? Who is manipulating who…? Suspense galore…!!
Part 2 is told in flashbacks of both Adam and Billie. Less suspense but oh gees… does Abigail know how to write characters that will grab your heart and soul (and also boil your blood!)
Part 3 is back to the present day and a whirlwind of an ending. Which, I must be honest, got me all a wee bit teary… 😢
This book looks at some dark themes so may be better suited to those who like their thrillers dark (which I love). I also find I respond a little differently to certain scenarios than I did before I became a mum, and Abigail had my heart aching for various reasons throughout this book (as well as wanting to tear a certain character limb from limb…!) What an amazing talent she has! And the epilogue…. Well 😄
All in all, an incredibly well written and evocative psychological thriller, that I would recommend to those who like it dark 🖤
Huge thanks to Love Books Tours, Blood Hound Books, and Abigail for my digital copy. My review is voluntary and thoughts entirely my own.
A psychological thriller, bursting at the seams with tension, suspense, and sooooo many emotions….!
Part 1 is set in the present day, told from three POVs - Billie, Adam, and an unknown… Straight away you understand the “unknown” is out for something baaaaad. Billie is likeable but clearly fragile. Adam is out to get answers from her due to something she did in her past. What was so horrible to make Adam despise her? To make her the way she is? Who is manipulating who…? Suspense galore…!!
Part 2 is told in flashbacks of both Adam and Billie. Less suspense but oh gees… does Abigail know how to write characters that will grab your heart and soul (and also boil your blood!)
Part 3 is back to the present day and a whirlwind of an ending. Which, I must be honest, got me all a wee bit teary… 😢
This book looks at some dark themes so may be better suited to those who like their thrillers dark (which I love). I also find I respond a little differently to certain scenarios than I did before I became a mum, and Abigail had my heart aching for various reasons throughout this book (as well as wanting to tear a certain character limb from limb…!) What an amazing talent she has! And the epilogue…. Well 😄
All in all, an incredibly well written and evocative psychological thriller, that I would recommend to those who like it dark 🖤
Huge thanks to Love Books Tours, Blood Hound Books, and Abigail for my digital copy. My review is voluntary and thoughts entirely my own.
March 13, 2017
The Puppet Master is an extremely intriguing story which Abigail Osborne has written absolutely superbly! I was completely gripped right from the start – the story begins in present day and we get to know Billie and Adam and the blossoming of their relationship. Throughout the first part of the book I was desperate to know what Adam was up to and the terrible things that Billie had done years ago! The story then flipped back to both characters childhood and then the story really starts to unravel, page by page…
The chapters of the book are alternated between Adam and Billie’s perspective and we learn how they’re both being manipulated in complete opposite ways by the same evil man. I must say, the title of this book matches the story absolutely perfectly!
I often find with the ever-growing genre of psychological thrillers that some books under this category aren’t actually psychological thrillers, they’re just normal thrillers with no unstable psychological state of the characters (that’s just my opinion, you may disagree). However THIS book should be the absolute definition of psychological thriller!!!
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with so many out-loud ‘ohhh’ and ‘OMFG’s’! The way this book is written and how the story is slowly revealed is truly phenomenal, whilst all the way through the tension increases and I was just dying to know what would happen in the end! I certainly wasn’t left disappointed, the ending of this book was just perfect. I loved how all the ends were tied up and I was left with all my questions answered at the same as clutching my kindle with white knuckles on the edge of my seat!
The Puppet Master is an incredible, gripping story which deals with some very disturbing issues, involving child abuse, mentally and sexually. The author seriously made me hate the ‘puppet master’ with every fibre in my body and feel so sorry for Billie, I just wanted to embrace her and tell her I was her friend and that I believed her right from the very start!! This book deserves all the stars in the world out of 5 and I will be recommending it to every single one of my book-loving friends, I’m already part way through my mission and many of my friends have purchased and began reading!! I LOVE spreading knowledge of good fiction! I can really see this being one of my top reads of 2017!
The chapters of the book are alternated between Adam and Billie’s perspective and we learn how they’re both being manipulated in complete opposite ways by the same evil man. I must say, the title of this book matches the story absolutely perfectly!
I often find with the ever-growing genre of psychological thrillers that some books under this category aren’t actually psychological thrillers, they’re just normal thrillers with no unstable psychological state of the characters (that’s just my opinion, you may disagree). However THIS book should be the absolute definition of psychological thriller!!!
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with so many out-loud ‘ohhh’ and ‘OMFG’s’! The way this book is written and how the story is slowly revealed is truly phenomenal, whilst all the way through the tension increases and I was just dying to know what would happen in the end! I certainly wasn’t left disappointed, the ending of this book was just perfect. I loved how all the ends were tied up and I was left with all my questions answered at the same as clutching my kindle with white knuckles on the edge of my seat!
The Puppet Master is an incredible, gripping story which deals with some very disturbing issues, involving child abuse, mentally and sexually. The author seriously made me hate the ‘puppet master’ with every fibre in my body and feel so sorry for Billie, I just wanted to embrace her and tell her I was her friend and that I believed her right from the very start!! This book deserves all the stars in the world out of 5 and I will be recommending it to every single one of my book-loving friends, I’m already part way through my mission and many of my friends have purchased and began reading!! I LOVE spreading knowledge of good fiction! I can really see this being one of my top reads of 2017!
November 24, 2021
3.5 stars
An emotional story
This story is one which cannot be taken lightly. It is a gripping and eerie and cleverly written. I enjoyed the back and forth between the two main characters and seeing their points of view. And when it went back and laid out how they became who they are I really started engaging with the plot. The only issue I had was that there wasn't a lot of dialogue. All in all a dark and at times scarily accurate portrail of how evil some people in this world are. Please ensure you are aware of the trigger warnings before reading.
An emotional story
This story is one which cannot be taken lightly. It is a gripping and eerie and cleverly written. I enjoyed the back and forth between the two main characters and seeing their points of view. And when it went back and laid out how they became who they are I really started engaging with the plot. The only issue I had was that there wasn't a lot of dialogue. All in all a dark and at times scarily accurate portrail of how evil some people in this world are. Please ensure you are aware of the trigger warnings before reading.
November 20, 2024
•••The Puppet Master by Abigail Osborne // 3 out of 5 stars•••
I absolutely loved the concept of this book, and the overall story was great. What made this book miss the mark for me was the grammar. The writing itself wasn’t bad, but I felt like there were so many comma inconsistencies and times where the sentences continued on when they should have been a separate thought. This really took me out of the moment and made it difficult to push on. With a few stylistic tweaks and another pass through an editor, this book definitely had five-star potential.
I absolutely loved the concept of this book, and the overall story was great. What made this book miss the mark for me was the grammar. The writing itself wasn’t bad, but I felt like there were so many comma inconsistencies and times where the sentences continued on when they should have been a separate thought. This really took me out of the moment and made it difficult to push on. With a few stylistic tweaks and another pass through an editor, this book definitely had five-star potential.
November 13, 2017
Readers seeking a creepy, make you squirm in your seat character need look no further than The Puppet Master. Not a word I use often but he is vile. After a long lead in, the middle part is titled The Past and was uneasy reading at times but was in my opinion the best part of the book covering the early lives of Adam and Billie. The other two parts were more focussed on the romance and while I didn’t out and out dislike Billie, I grew weary of her repeated mental monologue of questions.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for the copy of The Puppet Master.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for the copy of The Puppet Master.
November 16, 2017
I was first introduced to this novel through Blogger Joanne Robertson from My Chestnut Reading Tree, she did a feature on Abigail, and the book was at the time free to download, I found the premise of the story intriguing. I like to try new authors, especially self published ones.
I was so pleased when Bloodhound picked it up, and with some editing, new cover, but keeping the storyline the same it is improved and even tenser than before. I have fully read both editions.
Deception is the key to this novel, with the puppet master pulling the strings of the players.
Abbie has written a story that kept me on my toes, my heart in my mouth, and gut squirming just to add to the tension. Especially the more I read on. It was difficult to believe that this was a debut novel.
The book is set in three parts, with considerable thought to the way the story unfolds.
We see Billie and Adam, who they are individually and as they grow together in a new relationship. However they both have a past that they aren't fully revealing to each other, but their emotions are taking them on a journey neither expected.
We get to know why Billie is how she is, in the second part of the book, it gave us a great insight in to the characters and how they grew to be who they were.
Then there is the puppet master to take in to consideration! The full scale of the damage the puppet master has left in their wake is designed to make you feel helpless, sickened and increasingly frustrated as you read on. This is one of the most manipulative characters I have read in a long while.
This is a fantastic debut novel, that took me on an emotional roller coaster of a journey, like a scab I could not leave it alone. I kept on reading, the beginning part had me intrigued in wanting to find out Billie's past, what made Adam dislike Bille so much.
Part two, left me feeling saddened, there are difficult subject matters to get your head round, but as difficult a read as this is, it is too compelling and twisted to miss out on.
Part three gives us the conclusion, but is it the outcome that we want?
There were heart in the mouth moments, and I really felt for Billie and hoped the outcome would be positive, must read if you want to find out.
A story to stay which will stay with me for a long while, for an array of reasons. I really am looking forward to what Osborne brings us next.
I was so pleased when Bloodhound picked it up, and with some editing, new cover, but keeping the storyline the same it is improved and even tenser than before. I have fully read both editions.
Deception is the key to this novel, with the puppet master pulling the strings of the players.
Abbie has written a story that kept me on my toes, my heart in my mouth, and gut squirming just to add to the tension. Especially the more I read on. It was difficult to believe that this was a debut novel.
The book is set in three parts, with considerable thought to the way the story unfolds.
We see Billie and Adam, who they are individually and as they grow together in a new relationship. However they both have a past that they aren't fully revealing to each other, but their emotions are taking them on a journey neither expected.
We get to know why Billie is how she is, in the second part of the book, it gave us a great insight in to the characters and how they grew to be who they were.
Then there is the puppet master to take in to consideration! The full scale of the damage the puppet master has left in their wake is designed to make you feel helpless, sickened and increasingly frustrated as you read on. This is one of the most manipulative characters I have read in a long while.
This is a fantastic debut novel, that took me on an emotional roller coaster of a journey, like a scab I could not leave it alone. I kept on reading, the beginning part had me intrigued in wanting to find out Billie's past, what made Adam dislike Bille so much.
Part two, left me feeling saddened, there are difficult subject matters to get your head round, but as difficult a read as this is, it is too compelling and twisted to miss out on.
Part three gives us the conclusion, but is it the outcome that we want?
There were heart in the mouth moments, and I really felt for Billie and hoped the outcome would be positive, must read if you want to find out.
A story to stay which will stay with me for a long while, for an array of reasons. I really am looking forward to what Osborne brings us next.
October 17, 2021
This debut thriller from author Abigail Osborne was definitely a great one. It alternates between two main characters, Billie and Adam.
Billie, clearly, has suffered in her life. Used to hiding herself away,making herself as small and as inoffensive as she possibly can. She's spent so many years perfecting this skill that when she meets Adam she runs. Doing all she can to keep her defences up and him away.
Adam meets Billie and is immediately drawn to her. This woman who clearly has a story, and he wants to hear it. Not many people would keep on going back after having their advances rebuked so many times. But he persists, and gradually pokes a hole into her carefully constructed wall. The connection between them is obvious. The reason as to why is less so. The thread that connects them is spun so tightly into the story it will keep you guessing from the start.
All is not as it appears to be, behind this, all of it, is a truly revolting, vile disgusting excuse for a human being.
The story itself flows well, moving from present to past and back again seamlessly. It is a slow burner this one, it's all about the tension and the build up to an extraordinary finale. It starts from page one and never lets up. The thing i found myself doing with this was trying to stop myself from skipping forward and peeking to relieve the tension.
It is written by an author who is competent and confident in their storytelling abilities.
Thank you to TBC on FB and the author for this ARC. Although this was an ARC, all thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Billie, clearly, has suffered in her life. Used to hiding herself away,making herself as small and as inoffensive as she possibly can. She's spent so many years perfecting this skill that when she meets Adam she runs. Doing all she can to keep her defences up and him away.
Adam meets Billie and is immediately drawn to her. This woman who clearly has a story, and he wants to hear it. Not many people would keep on going back after having their advances rebuked so many times. But he persists, and gradually pokes a hole into her carefully constructed wall. The connection between them is obvious. The reason as to why is less so. The thread that connects them is spun so tightly into the story it will keep you guessing from the start.
All is not as it appears to be, behind this, all of it, is a truly revolting, vile disgusting excuse for a human being.
The story itself flows well, moving from present to past and back again seamlessly. It is a slow burner this one, it's all about the tension and the build up to an extraordinary finale. It starts from page one and never lets up. The thing i found myself doing with this was trying to stop myself from skipping forward and peeking to relieve the tension.
It is written by an author who is competent and confident in their storytelling abilities.
Thank you to TBC on FB and the author for this ARC. Although this was an ARC, all thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely my own.
February 14, 2017
It is hard to believe that this is a debut novel. This book is very well written and although I absolutely hated the story line as I do not like reading books along this topic I could not put the book down. If I had known what topic would have been covered I would not have picked up this book and it would have been my loss. This said I have to give the book 5 stars because it was so well written and I felt with Billie when she had to experience all the awful stuff that happened to her.
I loved Billie and Adam but not the other characters in the book. I would definitely recommend this book to you if you are looking for a psychological thriller. Please keep the tissues nearby.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
I loved Billie and Adam but not the other characters in the book. I would definitely recommend this book to you if you are looking for a psychological thriller. Please keep the tissues nearby.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
February 28, 2017
The Puppet Master by A biennial Osborne.
Billie’s hiding from the world, believing it to be the only way to take control of her life as she lives in fear of the man who nearly destroyed her. But what she doesn’t realise is that she’s exactly where he wants her; isolated and afraid.
This was a fantastic read with brilliant characters. Couldn't put it down. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
Billie’s hiding from the world, believing it to be the only way to take control of her life as she lives in fear of the man who nearly destroyed her. But what she doesn’t realise is that she’s exactly where he wants her; isolated and afraid.
This was a fantastic read with brilliant characters. Couldn't put it down. Highly recommended. 5*. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.
November 13, 2017
The Puppet Master by Abigail Osborne is a superb psychological thriller which could compete easily with the big boys in the book charts. An intense but sometimes harrowing tale of Billie’s escape from a dark past which always seems to rest on the fringes of her life.
Billie has ostracised herself from society, living in fear and isolation, believing that if she doesn’t integrate with people she can’t be hurt and no-one would know what happened in her past. Life changes and Billie’s guard is let down when she meets Adam, a journalist, but has Adam the best intentions for Billie or is there an ulterior motive. As I continued to read I discovered that Adam was gaining feelings for Billie, but he was trying to contain them, he wanted answers, the truth and he was going to get it by any means necessary.
Puppet-master (noun)
a person, group, or country that covertly controls another
The Puppet Master deceived me slightly into believing Billie was a mild, meek and woeful woman, but in reality she is actually strong, it took a profound amount of courage for Billie to escape her tumultuous past. The Puppet Master may be pulling the strings, manipulating from the side-lines but its only a matter of time until past and present collide.
Manipulate (verb)
control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly or unscrupulously
I was amazed at how well the book flowed between the two characters Billie and Adam, the transition between the past and the present, adapting their lives and slowly unfolding the drama. I loved how I was guided through some very heart-wrenching scenarios, a lot of which are still taboo to talk about. The descriptions although distressing were accurate and not sensationalised, which helped to understand grief, suicide, abuse and bullying from the perspective of each character, the author and in ways our own understanding.
Caught off guard on several occasions, I felt The Puppet Master gnawing through the dark recesses of my brain, wanting to take control. Slowly exuding an exceptional feeling of calmness. The Puppet Master was controlling my thoughts, determining the pace, sensing my imagination, delving deep into my world and dominating my every waking moment.
The Puppet Master took over my world until the last turn of the page, several days on, the book is still stalking the confines of my mind.
Thank you to Abigail Osborne and Bloodhound Books for an advanced readers copy of The Puppet Master to read in exchange for an honest review. Thanks also to Sarah Hardy for letting me loose on another Blog Blitz, won’t be long before we do it all over again I’m sure.
Billie has ostracised herself from society, living in fear and isolation, believing that if she doesn’t integrate with people she can’t be hurt and no-one would know what happened in her past. Life changes and Billie’s guard is let down when she meets Adam, a journalist, but has Adam the best intentions for Billie or is there an ulterior motive. As I continued to read I discovered that Adam was gaining feelings for Billie, but he was trying to contain them, he wanted answers, the truth and he was going to get it by any means necessary.
Puppet-master (noun)
a person, group, or country that covertly controls another
The Puppet Master deceived me slightly into believing Billie was a mild, meek and woeful woman, but in reality she is actually strong, it took a profound amount of courage for Billie to escape her tumultuous past. The Puppet Master may be pulling the strings, manipulating from the side-lines but its only a matter of time until past and present collide.
Manipulate (verb)
control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly or unscrupulously
I was amazed at how well the book flowed between the two characters Billie and Adam, the transition between the past and the present, adapting their lives and slowly unfolding the drama. I loved how I was guided through some very heart-wrenching scenarios, a lot of which are still taboo to talk about. The descriptions although distressing were accurate and not sensationalised, which helped to understand grief, suicide, abuse and bullying from the perspective of each character, the author and in ways our own understanding.
Caught off guard on several occasions, I felt The Puppet Master gnawing through the dark recesses of my brain, wanting to take control. Slowly exuding an exceptional feeling of calmness. The Puppet Master was controlling my thoughts, determining the pace, sensing my imagination, delving deep into my world and dominating my every waking moment.
The Puppet Master took over my world until the last turn of the page, several days on, the book is still stalking the confines of my mind.
Thank you to Abigail Osborne and Bloodhound Books for an advanced readers copy of The Puppet Master to read in exchange for an honest review. Thanks also to Sarah Hardy for letting me loose on another Blog Blitz, won’t be long before we do it all over again I’m sure.
November 14, 2017
In the opening pages of this book, I knew immediately that I liked the main protagonist, Billie, anyone who enjoys spending large amounts of time people-watching is a kindred spirit! Billie is instantly likeable, and the only character in this novel that I liked, Osborne did a wonderful job showcasing Billie’s fear and it radiated off the pages. Seeing how Billie lived as a result of her fear made my heart warm to her, I knew her past was going to catch up with her, and I hoped she’d survive a second time around.
The Puppet Master is narrated by Billie and Adam, firstly in the present day, a flash back to the past, then a return to the present day. The present day narrative in the first part of this book was my favourite part of the novel, Osborne did a good job building the suspense. From the blurb we know Billie is hiding from someone, but your attention is grabbed by Adam’s narrative, what does he perceive Billie to have done, if she’s the hiding victim, why does he believe she’s ruined lives?
The overriding theme in this novel is manipulation and I like that Osborne shows you how strong the power of manipulation is and how crippling an emotion fear is. The middle part of this novel takes us back into the past and the puzzle pieces fall into place – the reason for Billie’s fear and Adam’s loathing, however, there were times when this narration didn’t hold the same level of believability as the opening parts of the novel and the psychological thrills weren’t as strong either. When the plot returns to the present day, it’s a whirlwind of an ending, fitting though it is.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel and have no problem recommending it, it does delve into dark areas and is a novel suited to those who enjoy dark themes without the ‘hard-to-read’ descriptive detail. While the events narrated about the past may have suspended my belief a little, The Puppet Master is a quick and enjoyable read.
The Puppet Master is narrated by Billie and Adam, firstly in the present day, a flash back to the past, then a return to the present day. The present day narrative in the first part of this book was my favourite part of the novel, Osborne did a good job building the suspense. From the blurb we know Billie is hiding from someone, but your attention is grabbed by Adam’s narrative, what does he perceive Billie to have done, if she’s the hiding victim, why does he believe she’s ruined lives?
The overriding theme in this novel is manipulation and I like that Osborne shows you how strong the power of manipulation is and how crippling an emotion fear is. The middle part of this novel takes us back into the past and the puzzle pieces fall into place – the reason for Billie’s fear and Adam’s loathing, however, there were times when this narration didn’t hold the same level of believability as the opening parts of the novel and the psychological thrills weren’t as strong either. When the plot returns to the present day, it’s a whirlwind of an ending, fitting though it is.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel and have no problem recommending it, it does delve into dark areas and is a novel suited to those who enjoy dark themes without the ‘hard-to-read’ descriptive detail. While the events narrated about the past may have suspended my belief a little, The Puppet Master is a quick and enjoyable read.
December 5, 2017
Billie, scared, lonely and beaten by life is just trying to exist. She cannot meet anyone's eye and strives to make herself invisible.
Rookie journalist/columnist Adam approaches her table in a cafe and tries to strike up a conversation. She is reluctant to engage with him to start with and hurries out of the cafe as soon as she can. What has happened to Billie slowly becomes clear as does Adam's interest in her. He knows her routine so the meeting wasn't chance. He has been watching here for some time.
A dark story unfolds of fear, bullying, sexual assault and manipulation. The author does this very well and makes the characters as appalling as they are meant to be.
A child's fear and feelings of rejection are at the forefront of this. How families can miss some obvious hints is astonishing, but they do.
The two sides of this man, Eric, is as an uncle and a step-grandfather. The two sides are seen from the start, but the depths he sinks to, take longer to appear.
Be prepared for shocking revelations. Such bitter and twisted thoughts and actions make this a riveting read. Superbly mastered by the author.
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.
Rookie journalist/columnist Adam approaches her table in a cafe and tries to strike up a conversation. She is reluctant to engage with him to start with and hurries out of the cafe as soon as she can. What has happened to Billie slowly becomes clear as does Adam's interest in her. He knows her routine so the meeting wasn't chance. He has been watching here for some time.
A dark story unfolds of fear, bullying, sexual assault and manipulation. The author does this very well and makes the characters as appalling as they are meant to be.
A child's fear and feelings of rejection are at the forefront of this. How families can miss some obvious hints is astonishing, but they do.
The two sides of this man, Eric, is as an uncle and a step-grandfather. The two sides are seen from the start, but the depths he sinks to, take longer to appear.
Be prepared for shocking revelations. Such bitter and twisted thoughts and actions make this a riveting read. Superbly mastered by the author.
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.
November 17, 2017
The Puppet Master is quite chilling in an ‘omg, that could happen’ kind of way. Billie keeps herself to herself, I liked her as soon as I realised her favourite pastime is sitting in the bookstore/cafe people watching .. a girl after my own heart.
It soon becomes apparent she has had a tough life.
Not one for opening up to anyone she finds herself drawn to Adam can she trust him or does he have ulterior motives? This is told from both of their view points, past and present day so gives a decent insight into why they are behaving in such a manner.
This book doesn’t shy away from taboo subjects, the drama unfolds and leaves the reader gasping in places. Who is the evil person behind all the action, there are manipulative, controlling scenes. Both Billie and Adam are fighting their own battles but just who is pulling the strings?
I read this with great interest and enjoyed trying to get into the mind of evil. While it was soon fairly obvious who the ‘baddie’ was I relished the journey of discovery.
A fabulous debut from Abigail Osborne and I sincerely hope there is more of this style to come by her. Thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
It soon becomes apparent she has had a tough life.
Not one for opening up to anyone she finds herself drawn to Adam can she trust him or does he have ulterior motives? This is told from both of their view points, past and present day so gives a decent insight into why they are behaving in such a manner.
This book doesn’t shy away from taboo subjects, the drama unfolds and leaves the reader gasping in places. Who is the evil person behind all the action, there are manipulative, controlling scenes. Both Billie and Adam are fighting their own battles but just who is pulling the strings?
I read this with great interest and enjoyed trying to get into the mind of evil. While it was soon fairly obvious who the ‘baddie’ was I relished the journey of discovery.
A fabulous debut from Abigail Osborne and I sincerely hope there is more of this style to come by her. Thanks to the author, publisher and Sarah for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
September 8, 2021
The Puppet Master - Abigail Osborne
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Love Books Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknown to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossom between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
This is a very clever plot about fear, emotional trauma and abuse. Following a traumatic past, Billie can never relax or let her guard down - until she meets Alex. There is a connection between the two characters that grows as the plot develops.
Cleverly building tension, Osborne keeps the reader hooked until the very end. This is my first introduction to Abigail's writing but based on this book it will not be last. This is a must read thriller.
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Love Books Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Billie is hiding from the world in fear of a man who nearly destroyed her. But a chance meeting with budding journalist, Adam, sparks a relationship that could free her from her life of isolation and fear.
Unbeknown to Billie, Adam knows exactly who Billie is and is determined to expose her and get justice for the lives he believes she has ruined. But first, he needs to convince her to open up to him. As an unwanted attraction blossom between them, Adam comes to realise that all is not as it seems.
This is a very clever plot about fear, emotional trauma and abuse. Following a traumatic past, Billie can never relax or let her guard down - until she meets Alex. There is a connection between the two characters that grows as the plot develops.
Cleverly building tension, Osborne keeps the reader hooked until the very end. This is my first introduction to Abigail's writing but based on this book it will not be last. This is a must read thriller.
April 26, 2018
Well, this book did not work out for me. It was just horrible.
So many raving reviews here and I just can't understand why that is so and even less the praising of the writing. The first 3rd was an OK-read although it felt a bit like chick-lit (which I don't like). But after the cliffhanger things went south. There was no actuall action between the characters, hardly any dialog. The author just told us what happend, how everybody was feeling. It was all just re-narration. And it was all so predicatable once you realise who is the puppet master. He is an abdominable character, no question. But all around it did not work. There was a lot of repetative and the characters keep coming up with the same thoughts again and again. It was so frustrating and boring.
I just flipped through the last half of the book. It was very predictable and the end was very meldodramatic. One of the worst books I've read in the last months.
So many raving reviews here and I just can't understand why that is so and even less the praising of the writing. The first 3rd was an OK-read although it felt a bit like chick-lit (which I don't like). But after the cliffhanger things went south. There was no actuall action between the characters, hardly any dialog. The author just told us what happend, how everybody was feeling. It was all just re-narration. And it was all so predicatable once you realise who is the puppet master. He is an abdominable character, no question. But all around it did not work. There was a lot of repetative and the characters keep coming up with the same thoughts again and again. It was so frustrating and boring.
I just flipped through the last half of the book. It was very predictable and the end was very meldodramatic. One of the worst books I've read in the last months.
August 13, 2021
4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. It followed Billie, who had experienced a traumatic childhood, and eventually her relationship with Adam. Following a chance meeting, Adam realises he knows who Billie is and decides to get to know her and expose her for what he thinks she had done. I immediately empathised with Billie and the more you hear about her backstory, the more you invested you become wanting Adam to know the truth.
The book is in three parts and is cleverly written to divulge the story and how the lives of the characters are entwined. The emotions that this book gave me were varied. I hated the puppet master and felt for Adam and I did something I don’t normally do, I shed some tears. Reading about Billie near the end set me off. I felt I wanted to help her and for her to experience happiness. Yes it’s obvious who the puppet master is but hearing how they do it is such a journey.
This book is full of deceit, manipulation, and control. A sensitive topic is handled brilliantly. The author has done her research and written an intense debut.
I really enjoyed this book. It followed Billie, who had experienced a traumatic childhood, and eventually her relationship with Adam. Following a chance meeting, Adam realises he knows who Billie is and decides to get to know her and expose her for what he thinks she had done. I immediately empathised with Billie and the more you hear about her backstory, the more you invested you become wanting Adam to know the truth.
The book is in three parts and is cleverly written to divulge the story and how the lives of the characters are entwined. The emotions that this book gave me were varied. I hated the puppet master and felt for Adam and I did something I don’t normally do, I shed some tears. Reading about Billie near the end set me off. I felt I wanted to help her and for her to experience happiness. Yes it’s obvious who the puppet master is but hearing how they do it is such a journey.
This book is full of deceit, manipulation, and control. A sensitive topic is handled brilliantly. The author has done her research and written an intense debut.
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