Neuro-imaging studies show that there is a brief interval during cognitive processing, just before we make a conscious decision, when our subconscious mind takes over. There is no scientific explanation for what happens during these seven seconds. Olivia Osborne knows. And it’s terrifying. Olivia Osborne is a forensic psychologist and former FBI agent who is blessed (or cursed, depending on who you ask) with unique gifts. Olivia is able to sense what others cannot--the spiritual presence of those who have "crossed over," as well as the living who are influenced, or in some cases possessed, by evil. The passing of her beloved Gran was the catalyst Olivia needed to leave the FBI behind and return to her native San Antonio, Texas. But a familiar evil has followed on her heels. When a series of brutal murders rock her city, Olivia is pulled into the investigation despite her plans to leave that part of her life behind. What if she isn't supposed to run? What if she was always supposed to stand and fight? Seven Seconds is the first book in this exciting new paranormal crime procedural.
I love it when I find a great thriller with the addition of paranormal. And, that's what I found when I started to read Seven Seconds. Olivia Osborne has like the women in her family a gift, or gift is a strong word since sensing the spiritual presence of people that have crossed over as well as those that are possessed by evil is also a burden. Olivia has tried to move on from her work at the FBI, but when a serial killer is murdering women in her hometown is she contacted by an old friend and police to help out. The question is, will she be able to stop the killer?
Seven Seconds is one of those books that intrigued me from the start. I just love it when I read about a tough woman Olivia who also has a special gift. The hunt for the serial killer gets very personal and we learn more about her past. This is something I love, getting to know characters past history through flashbacks or reflections. It really gives more depth to the story and adds some spice to this already interesting story. And, I'm deeply pleased to know that this is the first book in a series because I really want to read more about Olivia. There is a bit of romantic triangle in this book, but personally, I found it only refreshing as it's written so well and adds more depth to the characters. It will be interesting to read book two and see how it all will be developed.
The ending is both satisfying and saddening. Can't give away anything, but I wished an event could have ended differently. It's a great book and if you like me like thrillers with a paranormal vibe, then go for this book!
I want to thank PerpetuityPublishing for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
I was drawn to this book by the paranormal edge to it, you know it's not just any old crime book when the perpetrator is evil itself. The paranormal element was just a small part of the book, so people who love crime thrillers and dislike fantasy will still enjoy Seven Seconds.
The character of Dr Olivia Osborne is very well thought out. Like all women in her family, she has a gift and can communicate with spirits. As an ex-FBI agent she has returned to her home town of San Antonia and is called on by the San Antonia Police Department to help them with a series of murders. These murders seem to link to something that happened in Olivia's past and I felt like whatever evil spirit was involved 'then' has unfinished business with Olivia 'now'.
What I found so interesting is that the seven seconds idea is TRUE! The idea that our subconscious makes a decision before our conscious mind even knows about it is really eye-opening. If, like me, you think of your subconscious as your spirit or soul, it is very possible that other elements on the astral plane could influence your decisions. In those seven seconds before our conscious mind takes over, who's to say we aren't open to suggestion? Scary stuff indeed.
It took me a good few chapters to get into this book, but once I did I was gripped. I would have liked to explore the paranormal a bit more but I think Lisa Compton has cleverly weighted the normal/paranormal to appeal to many readers. I am intrigued to see what comes next for Olivia Osborne.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I was really excited to start reading this book, the blurb intrigued me and I was really interested to see where the story would take me and what the paranormal twist would be. The book was well thought out and really well planned, it built up pace gradually and I was hooked from the first few pages.
I really enjoyed Olivia as a character - I read a lot of crime fiction and police procedurals and she brought a change to the normal lead characters for this genre for me. The story was great and it kept me entertained to the end - 4 stars from me - I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading more from Lisa in the future!
This book has become a standard that all others read since must live up to. It immediately draws you in and refuses to be put down. I am anxiously awaiting and eagerly anticipating the rest of this series and am quite certain that the author will not let us down.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Seven Seconds. It’s one of those books you just cannot put down! So happy to see this is Book 1 - I will be looking for Book 2!
Literally, a page turner! Once I started reading I could not put it down. I really liked the blend of criminal investigation and paranormal influence. I had trouble with a few things...like anyone with Olivia's diverse professional experience seems like they would be much older. And I had to stop to search "crispy spinach" because I had no idea there was such a thing...it turns out that people do fry spinach. But maybe it was merely crisp spinach? My brain is super annoying when it gets stuck on details like that. Anyway, it was an excellent book that ended with just the right amount of closure while leaving an opening for a sequel. My fingers are crossed for a sequel!
"Seven Seconds" by Lisa Compton is a gripping thriller that plunges readers into a world where darkness and danger lurk around every corner. Olivia Osborne, a former FBI agent seeking refuge from her haunting past, is drawn back into a harrowing investigation by a distress call from Sergeant Mark Austin, a friend bound to her by shared tragedy.
Compton masterfully crafts a narrative that intricately weaves themes of loss, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The story thrusts Olivia into a blood-soaked field, confronting the echoes of death while navigating the thin line between the tangible world and an eerie otherworldly realm that tugs at her senses.
The novel expertly juxtaposes Olivia's inner conflict—her struggle between darkness and light, good and evil—as she grapples with her past while confronting the malevolent forces tormenting her. Compton skillfully builds tension, creating an atmosphere that keeps readers on edge, turning pages to unravel the mystery.
The character of Olivia is brilliantly depicted, her strength and vulnerability adding layers to the narrative, making her journey compelling and relatable. The relentless pursuit of a bloodthirsty killer adds to the suspense, leaving readers gripping the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the truth alongside Olivia.
The author's writing style is vivid and immersive, transporting readers into a world where danger is palpable and the stakes are high. With its mix of adrenaline-pumping action and a haunting atmosphere, "Seven Seconds" is a thrilling ride that fans of crime fiction and suspense will find difficult to put down.
Lisa Compton's "Seven Seconds" is a dark and enthralling tale that intricately delves into the complexities of human nature, the unending battle between good and evil, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horrors. This is a must-read for those seeking a chilling yet captivating crime thriller that lingers long after the final page.
"Seven Seconds," By Lisa Compton's 5 outof 5 🌟 The readers are thrust into a riveting world where Olivia Osborne, a former FBI agent, confronts the ghosts of her past. Drawn back into the shadows by a haunting call from Sergeant Mark Austin, Olivia finds herself entangled in a visceral dance between good and evil, life and death. The monsters that stole someone dear to both Olivia and Mark demand resolution, and Olivia is the reluctant yet determined hunter.Compton masterfully crafts a narrative that fuses crime thriller with supernatural elements, creating an atmospheric and tense experience. The blood-soaked field becomes a canvas where Olivia sifts through echoes of death, the thin veil between worlds beckoning her with a chilling invitation. The author skillfully explores Olivia's internal conflict, torn between opposing forces that mirror the external threats she faces.The palpable sense of danger intensifies as a bloodthirsty killer emerges, weaving a familiar evil into the fabric of Olivia's reality. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, drawing readers deeper into the hunt alongside Olivia. As the protagonist grapples with her own demons, the suspense builds, leaving readers on the edge of their seats."Seven Seconds" showcases Compton's ability to blend genres, delivering a gripping tale that transcends traditional crime fiction. Olivia's journey, marked by resilience and determination, adds a compelling layer to the story. With each page, the author invites readers into a world where monsters lurk, and Olivia Osborne stands as the reluctant yet indispensable force against the encroaching darkness.
"Seven Seconds" by Lisa Compton is an electrifying journey into the supernatural world, skillfully woven with the gripping narrative of forensic psychologist Olivia Osborne. Compton's portrayal of Olivia's unique abilities and her entanglement with evil is both mesmerizing and haunting. The book's fast-paced rhythm keeps you hooked from start to finish. It's a testament to Compton's storytelling prowess that leaves you yearning for more. An on-screen adaptation seems inevitable for this thrilling tale. I can hardly wait for the next installment!
This book literally has a bit of everything. I personally, think it would make a great film. While I loved reading it I think I would love watching it unfold on the screen even more. The author does a great job of writing a story that is both thrilling and spooky at times. I was reading this alone and I did look over my should a couple of times. That just added to my enjoyment of the story. Overall, I would highly recommend it, it was well written and had great pacing.
I enjoyed the storyline and characters. The book contained just the right amount of scary as not to take away from the over arching plot. The chapters flowed well and I was engaged the entire book. I did get spooked at night a few times. Note: Maybe don't read it before bed? :-)
Interesting from the very beginning! Kept me guessing, and that’s how I like it!! When you cannot predict how a book is going to end it’s a win! I recommend this book! Cannot wait for the next one!