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Game Master
Dr Vanessa Griffiths wakes the morning after her thirty-first birthday in an old abandoned hospital with no memory of the previous night.
However, she’s not alone.
A man is tied to a chair with a bomb strapped to him. Her brother is tied to another chair with a timer above him. And the Game Master is about to push her to her limits and change her life forever.
Vanessa must move quickly if she’s to play his first game and free both men.
But this is just the beginning. Game One.
As Vanessa and her new friend, Caelan, become ensnared in the GM’s sick game of riddles, quests, and strength they soon find out that there’s more than just secrets and lies hidden behind each trial. As they race against time, it becomes apparent that there’s more to the Game Master than they thought.
The Game Master only plays by his rules. And they are about to find out exactly what happens if they deviate from them.
Eight lives to save.
Eight days.
Eight games.
His rules.
It’s time to play The Game.
However, she’s not alone.
A man is tied to a chair with a bomb strapped to him. Her brother is tied to another chair with a timer above him. And the Game Master is about to push her to her limits and change her life forever.
Vanessa must move quickly if she’s to play his first game and free both men.
But this is just the beginning. Game One.
As Vanessa and her new friend, Caelan, become ensnared in the GM’s sick game of riddles, quests, and strength they soon find out that there’s more than just secrets and lies hidden behind each trial. As they race against time, it becomes apparent that there’s more to the Game Master than they thought.
The Game Master only plays by his rules. And they are about to find out exactly what happens if they deviate from them.
Eight lives to save.
Eight days.
Eight games.
His rules.
It’s time to play The Game.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2018
38 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
D.H. Sidebottom
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 5, 2018
★ 5 mind blowing stars!!! ★
▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬
Note: Someone tagged this book as a MM Romance, perhaps by mistake.
This is not a MM Romance book.
Who’s the Game Master?
OMFG!!!!!
This book was so freaking good!!!!
Que delícia de livro!
Estava com saudades de ler um livro que realmente me impressionasse e supreendesse...
Eu já conhecia a autora através dos livros que escreveu em parceria com a Ker Dukey, então esperava por algo bom e definitivamente esse livro superou todas as minhas expectativas!
Adorei os personagens principais, ambos interessantes e cativantes.
Amei o enredo, inteligente, muito bem desenvolvido e escrito.
Acompanhar a jornada da Nessa foi eletrizante. Passei boa parte da leitura prendendo a respiração à cada obstáculo, enigma e jogo que surgia. E claro, analisando toda e qualquer pista, tentando desvendar a identidade do GM.
Um fato inusitado e até mesmo engraçado que aconteceu comigo, pois raramente sinto essa vontade... Nem tinha terminado a leitura e já estava com aquele desejo louco de reler... de saborear cada detalhe com calma.
A narrativa é tão envolvente que não consegui parar a leitura por muito tempo. Fiquei totalmente presa desde a primeira página e a única reclamação que me vem a mente nesse momento é de que tivesse mais páginas!
Game Master revelou-se uma leitura supreendente e maravilhosa! Tornou-se o meu favorito do momento e altamente recomendo!
É praticamente uma leitura obrigatória!
Amei, amei, amei!!!!
“We were each other’s strength in the powerlessness of the game we played, one another’s crutch when we felt time crippling us. I wanted to stay locked in the refuge of his eyes forever, pretend that none of this was happening...”
▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬⋆▬
Note: Someone tagged this book as a MM Romance, perhaps by mistake.
This is not a MM Romance book.
Who’s the Game Master?
OMFG!!!!!
This book was so freaking good!!!!
Que delícia de livro!
Estava com saudades de ler um livro que realmente me impressionasse e supreendesse...
Eu já conhecia a autora através dos livros que escreveu em parceria com a Ker Dukey, então esperava por algo bom e definitivamente esse livro superou todas as minhas expectativas!
Adorei os personagens principais, ambos interessantes e cativantes.
Amei o enredo, inteligente, muito bem desenvolvido e escrito.
Acompanhar a jornada da Nessa foi eletrizante. Passei boa parte da leitura prendendo a respiração à cada obstáculo, enigma e jogo que surgia. E claro, analisando toda e qualquer pista, tentando desvendar a identidade do GM.
Um fato inusitado e até mesmo engraçado que aconteceu comigo, pois raramente sinto essa vontade... Nem tinha terminado a leitura e já estava com aquele desejo louco de reler... de saborear cada detalhe com calma.
A narrativa é tão envolvente que não consegui parar a leitura por muito tempo. Fiquei totalmente presa desde a primeira página e a única reclamação que me vem a mente nesse momento é de que tivesse mais páginas!
Game Master revelou-se uma leitura supreendente e maravilhosa! Tornou-se o meu favorito do momento e altamente recomendo!
É praticamente uma leitura obrigatória!
Amei, amei, amei!!!!
August 12, 2018
FULL RTC IN THE MORNING
The Game Master only plays by his rules. And they are about to find out exactly what happens if they deviate from them. Eight lives to save.
Eight days.
Eight games.
His rules.
It’s time to play The Game.
wowza's!! This was one f#cked up crazy ride, which is kind of what one expects with this author but she truly delivered with this one, twists and turns that just kept coming and coming and kept me guessing throughout. Like the series Saw we got front row seats as these two characters tried to save their loved ones with clues, running against the clock each and every-time had my heart beating erratically. If your'e brave enough to jump into this book beware that there is completely zilch romance, zilch sex, but bucket loads of grittiness.
August 13, 2018
Genre: Dark Thriller
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
In one night, Dr. Vanessa (Nessa) Griffiths’ life was turned upside down. Waking up in an abandoned hospital, she had to figure out why she was there with another victim Caelan Fen. Soon enough they realize they were players in a game of life and death engineered by the mysterious Game Master. Now, they must work together to win or prepare to accept the consequences.
This book definitely have an intriguing concept. The setting and the games had a dark and sinister feel that heightened reading experience.
I liked how the Game Master was ruthless and unbending. He held total power against the players. Nessa and Caelan came from completely different background and I liked how they worked together to decipher the clues and solve the tasks.
However, there seemed to be a few inconsistencies within the story/characters that made it felt slightly off. Also, some of the character’s actions and motivation were questionable or weak. I am glad the ending and the epilogue strengthened the overall storyline.
The Game Master follows the distressing journey of two individuals in the fight of survival. It would appeal to fans of dark thriller.
☠ ⏳ ☠ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ☠ ⏳ ☠
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
In one night, Dr. Vanessa (Nessa) Griffiths’ life was turned upside down. Waking up in an abandoned hospital, she had to figure out why she was there with another victim Caelan Fen. Soon enough they realize they were players in a game of life and death engineered by the mysterious Game Master. Now, they must work together to win or prepare to accept the consequences.
"Well done, Dr Griffiths,” the Game Master stated through the iPad. “Now, if I were you, I’d run!”
This book definitely have an intriguing concept. The setting and the games had a dark and sinister feel that heightened reading experience.
Nessa had secrets, lots of them, I was sure of that. One thing was indisputable, Dr Vanessa Griffiths was so much more than just a surgeon. And I for one was eager to find out her true identity.
I liked how the Game Master was ruthless and unbending. He held total power against the players. Nessa and Caelan came from completely different background and I liked how they worked together to decipher the clues and solve the tasks.
Did that make me as depraved as the Game Master? Aren’t we all selfish when the lives of our loved ones are at risk?
However, there seemed to be a few inconsistencies within the story/characters that made it felt slightly off. Also, some of the character’s actions and motivation were questionable or weak. I am glad the ending and the epilogue strengthened the overall storyline.
The Game Master follows the distressing journey of two individuals in the fight of survival. It would appeal to fans of dark thriller.
☠ ⏳ ☠ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ☠ ⏳ ☠
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
August 5, 2018
Buddy read with Alex.
This book if you want to call it that, was a huge cluster fuck.
When Alex and me started this book it felt like a huge chunk was missing. We were confused as fuck. We didn't know what the hell was happening.
The more we read about the more pissed we were getting. The timelines were atrocious. One minute they were getting drunk the next they were playing the game. They had time to get drunk and laughed, the FC giggled like nothing was really happening while their families were getting brutality murdered and traumatized.
Both MCs were weak and pathetic. There were deaths, innocent people were killed because of her. Her mother, her stepfather, his sister in law and her siblings were being traumatized.
And what pissed me more off was the killing of 3 dogs. There's no secret that I love animals. Don't mess with them because I'll become an enraged bitch. I love my dog very much and the thought that someone could hurt him makes me want to commit murder. So much that I was planning the FC demise. I was in dreamland just thinking about it. I was dreaming I was going to cut her off in pieces, or setting her on fire, or chasing her down with a shotgun.
And I got my revenge. Yes I'm that fucking vicious when it comes to someone torturing and killing innocent animals. But I really wanted her to suffer more. I wanted her head on a silver platter so I could dance around it. I'm always against any type of violence against women but this woman deserve everything she got.
Did I mention that she was a cheater?... No?...
Well... Yeah, she was one. She cheated on her husband with the MC's brother who was also a married man! To the very same husband that she claimed to love very much. The very same husband she wished she could be with him again. The woman also claimed she loved the MC's brother.
Now all this happened because her cousin wanted the "throne" or so to speak of the Russian bratva. Since she was the princess, he made these sick games and he killed the lover and the husband but he made it seen like the FC killed her lover and MC killed her husband
So if you're looking for romance you won't find it here, there's also no HEA and for fucking once I'm happy that there's not one. FC didn't deserve one much less the MC.
In case it wasn't clear enough. She was killed by her so called cousin/not really cousin.
We were just glad this shit was over.
This book if you want to call it that, was a huge cluster fuck.
When Alex and me started this book it felt like a huge chunk was missing. We were confused as fuck. We didn't know what the hell was happening.
The more we read about the more pissed we were getting. The timelines were atrocious. One minute they were getting drunk the next they were playing the game. They had time to get drunk and laughed, the FC giggled like nothing was really happening while their families were getting brutality murdered and traumatized.
Both MCs were weak and pathetic. There were deaths, innocent people were killed because of her. Her mother, her stepfather, his sister in law and her siblings were being traumatized.
And what pissed me more off was the killing of 3 dogs. There's no secret that I love animals. Don't mess with them because I'll become an enraged bitch. I love my dog very much and the thought that someone could hurt him makes me want to commit murder. So much that I was planning the FC demise. I was in dreamland just thinking about it. I was dreaming I was going to cut her off in pieces, or setting her on fire, or chasing her down with a shotgun.
And I got my revenge. Yes I'm that fucking vicious when it comes to someone torturing and killing innocent animals. But I really wanted her to suffer more. I wanted her head on a silver platter so I could dance around it. I'm always against any type of violence against women but this woman deserve everything she got.
Did I mention that she was a cheater?... No?...
Well... Yeah, she was one. She cheated on her husband with the MC's brother who was also a married man! To the very same husband that she claimed to love very much. The very same husband she wished she could be with him again. The woman also claimed she loved the MC's brother.
Now all this happened because her cousin wanted the "throne" or so to speak of the Russian bratva. Since she was the princess, he made these sick games and he killed the lover and the husband but he made it seen like the FC killed her lover and MC killed her husband
So if you're looking for romance you won't find it here, there's also no HEA and for fucking once I'm happy that there's not one. FC didn't deserve one much less the MC.
In case it wasn't clear enough. She was killed by her so called cousin/not really cousin.
We were just glad this shit was over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2018
3.75 Stars
August 14, 2018
4.5 Stars!
At 31 years old, Vanessa “Nessa” Griffiths wakes up in a strange place and is informed that she is to play this depraved game or else harm will come to her family. Thinking she’s escaped the dangers surrounding her childhood, Vanessa quickly realizes she has no choice but to compete in hopes of getting answers and saving those she loves. However, she doesn’t expect layers of truth and pain to be revealed along the way.
Caught off guard, Caelan Fen is thrust into a deadly situation where he finds himself partnered with a stranger. A detective by occupation, Caelan has plenty of enemies but time is of the essence as he tries to crack the game master’s cryptic riddles. Caelan is familiar with retribution but he isn’t prepared for the level of depravity in the games.
Told in dual POV, the immediate tone is ominous, tense and so much is unknown. Under enormous pressure, the only way to react is to hyper-focus on each game and cast aside fears. Nessa and Caelan are two unlikely partners and as they wonder why they’ve been paired together, complex layers of mysteriously shrouded clues create clarity and the unexpected.
With time ticking, the race for answers is filled with adrenaline induced action and serious consequences. While Nessa and Caelan have secrets they want to keep, the game master makes it impossible and this enhances the potential conflict. Nessa is a strong character who isn’t a stranger to the underworld but returning to that place, she must descend into darkness and embrace valor. Caelan offers a steady balance to the plot but he also carries his own demons which makes him vulnerable.
From the first page, I was intrigued with the circumstances affecting these characters. As more is revealed, the psychological thriller aspect is heavy but there is also emotion tied into motivations and choices. With two carefully constructed characters and a devious Game Master, the plot is diabolically propelled up to the final square of game. In true DH Sidebottom fashion, the evolution of the characters is fitting.
Game Master is a dark psychological thriller that will keep the reader engrossed to the very last word. I highly recommend to those who are open to all possibilities.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
At 31 years old, Vanessa “Nessa” Griffiths wakes up in a strange place and is informed that she is to play this depraved game or else harm will come to her family. Thinking she’s escaped the dangers surrounding her childhood, Vanessa quickly realizes she has no choice but to compete in hopes of getting answers and saving those she loves. However, she doesn’t expect layers of truth and pain to be revealed along the way.
“This was his way of telling me he knew exactly who I was. I could almost foresee his next step.”
Caught off guard, Caelan Fen is thrust into a deadly situation where he finds himself partnered with a stranger. A detective by occupation, Caelan has plenty of enemies but time is of the essence as he tries to crack the game master’s cryptic riddles. Caelan is familiar with retribution but he isn’t prepared for the level of depravity in the games.
“The sense of my own death loomed in the moments ahead, my fate in the hands of each person following my every move.”
Told in dual POV, the immediate tone is ominous, tense and so much is unknown. Under enormous pressure, the only way to react is to hyper-focus on each game and cast aside fears. Nessa and Caelan are two unlikely partners and as they wonder why they’ve been paired together, complex layers of mysteriously shrouded clues create clarity and the unexpected.
“When I felt the familiar calmness soothe the fury in my veins and steady the beat of my heart, I smiled coldly. “I’m not in the mood to amuse you any more. It’s time to fight for that end square and reveal who is the true Game Master.”
With time ticking, the race for answers is filled with adrenaline induced action and serious consequences. While Nessa and Caelan have secrets they want to keep, the game master makes it impossible and this enhances the potential conflict. Nessa is a strong character who isn’t a stranger to the underworld but returning to that place, she must descend into darkness and embrace valor. Caelan offers a steady balance to the plot but he also carries his own demons which makes him vulnerable.
From the first page, I was intrigued with the circumstances affecting these characters. As more is revealed, the psychological thriller aspect is heavy but there is also emotion tied into motivations and choices. With two carefully constructed characters and a devious Game Master, the plot is diabolically propelled up to the final square of game. In true DH Sidebottom fashion, the evolution of the characters is fitting.
Game Master is a dark psychological thriller that will keep the reader engrossed to the very last word. I highly recommend to those who are open to all possibilities.
*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
September 16, 2018
⚠️ WARNING ⚠️
This is classic Sidebottom dark but NOT dark erotica! There is absolutely zero sex in this book!!!! just FYI so you won’t be totally surprised and waiting for it like I was!
This is classic Sidebottom dark but NOT dark erotica! There is absolutely zero sex in this book!!!! just FYI so you won’t be totally surprised and waiting for it like I was!
August 1, 2018
Dr Vanessa Griffiths wakes up after a night out on the town to find out she's been abducted. More than that is the fact that she has no idea how she got there or what her abductor wants of her. All she knows is that she's apparently in an old abandoned hospital and there's a strange man who's obviously been beaten and unconscious chained to a chair with a bomb attached to his chest.
"... the thrill of the chase, the pursuit of one's prey, long before the exhilaration of the kill, is the best high known to man."
Nessa and her new partner currently attached to a bomb are now participants in a life or death game hosted the the Game Master where the only way to win is to survive.
* * * * *
It's not often that a story leaves me speechless. This was a psychological thriller that left me in a perpetual state of nervous apprehension from beginning to end. High octane all the way. The mystery-suspense elements were almost more than I could handle as Nessa and Caelan, two supposed strangers, solve clues and riddles that put their lives and those of their families at stake. To stay in the game, the pair must solve a daily task to live to see another day. Failure to solve the day's task, the game ends, permanently.
Good time to mention that this is a dark themed story. Dark as in the subject matter includes violence, blood letting, and abuse. This isn't for the faint of heart but does provide a totally satisfying experience for those who enjoy stories that are intended to shock and thrill readers with the added suspense-mystery to ponder. Yup, the total package.
The world building was spot to maximize the plot/story line. Just enough details to support the premise of this story without going too far into over dramatizing the cat and mouse situations as they evolve. Not going to mention anything more as this is a new release and giving anything away may spoil the reading experience for potential readers.
I'm going to mention that while this does primarily land under psychological mystery-suspense thriller there is a romantic suspense slant that does not include any intimate adult content romance scenes. Frankly, with all that's going on and with the ongoing 'game' premise, nope. Would have been totally unrealistic. Just putting that out there for any who base their reading on the degree of romance.
Seriously. I loved and inhaled this book. The content isn't always easy to deal with but such is life sometimes. I highly and to the utmost degree recommend this book to those who are fans of darker psychological thrillers. It's an reading experience that will leave a lasting impression if nothing more than how it ends.
"... the thrill of the chase, the pursuit of one's prey, long before the exhilaration of the kill, is the best high known to man."
Nessa and her new partner currently attached to a bomb are now participants in a life or death game hosted the the Game Master where the only way to win is to survive.
* * * * *
It's not often that a story leaves me speechless. This was a psychological thriller that left me in a perpetual state of nervous apprehension from beginning to end. High octane all the way. The mystery-suspense elements were almost more than I could handle as Nessa and Caelan, two supposed strangers, solve clues and riddles that put their lives and those of their families at stake. To stay in the game, the pair must solve a daily task to live to see another day. Failure to solve the day's task, the game ends, permanently.
Good time to mention that this is a dark themed story. Dark as in the subject matter includes violence, blood letting, and abuse. This isn't for the faint of heart but does provide a totally satisfying experience for those who enjoy stories that are intended to shock and thrill readers with the added suspense-mystery to ponder. Yup, the total package.
The world building was spot to maximize the plot/story line. Just enough details to support the premise of this story without going too far into over dramatizing the cat and mouse situations as they evolve. Not going to mention anything more as this is a new release and giving anything away may spoil the reading experience for potential readers.
I'm going to mention that while this does primarily land under psychological mystery-suspense thriller there is a romantic suspense slant that does not include any intimate adult content romance scenes. Frankly, with all that's going on and with the ongoing 'game' premise, nope. Would have been totally unrealistic. Just putting that out there for any who base their reading on the degree of romance.
Seriously. I loved and inhaled this book. The content isn't always easy to deal with but such is life sometimes. I highly and to the utmost degree recommend this book to those who are fans of darker psychological thrillers. It's an reading experience that will leave a lasting impression if nothing more than how it ends.
July 26, 2018
D H Sidebottom is back with a bang!!!
This book gripped me from the start the riddles had me trying to figure out what the hell was going on. This book will have you questioning yourself well I know it did me just when i thought I had it all figured out BANG I was totally wrong. I sure have missed this authors words but she has really come back with a BANG this time.. Can’t wait to read what is next from her.
This book gripped me from the start the riddles had me trying to figure out what the hell was going on. This book will have you questioning yourself well I know it did me just when i thought I had it all figured out BANG I was totally wrong. I sure have missed this authors words but she has really come back with a BANG this time.. Can’t wait to read what is next from her.
July 27, 2018
D H Sidebottom is back with a brand new psychological thriller. I got sucked into this book straight away. It’s got a creepy vibe to it that I couldn’t get enough of.
Dr Vanessa Griffiths wakes up in abandoned hospital with no idea how she got there or what the Game Master wants with her and fellow player Caelan. It soon becomes apparent that she has no choice but to play the Game Masters Games while they try and figure out who the Game Master is and what he wants.
This is a fast paced, action packed thriller that kept me guessing from start to finish. With plenty of twists thrown in, this book is a hard one to put down. Another great book from D H Sidebottom.
Dr Vanessa Griffiths wakes up in abandoned hospital with no idea how she got there or what the Game Master wants with her and fellow player Caelan. It soon becomes apparent that she has no choice but to play the Game Masters Games while they try and figure out who the Game Master is and what he wants.
This is a fast paced, action packed thriller that kept me guessing from start to finish. With plenty of twists thrown in, this book is a hard one to put down. Another great book from D H Sidebottom.
August 5, 2018
5* OMG, WTF* estrelas
Não sei nem que dizer só sentir.
Sabe aquele livro que tu fica vidrada prendendo a respiração quase todo tempo? Que a cada página é uma nova surpresa? Que parece que tu desvendou o livro, mas tava errada? Esse livro é tudoooo isso e muito mais.
AMEI AMEI AMEI
Esse livro ia ser brilhante no cinema. Adorei que ele foge complemente do convencional. Autora genial!!!!!!!!!
PHODASTICO
MARAVILHOSO
INCRÍVEL
DIVINO
INTELIGENTE
Leiaaaammmmm
Não sei nem que dizer só sentir.
Sabe aquele livro que tu fica vidrada prendendo a respiração quase todo tempo? Que a cada página é uma nova surpresa? Que parece que tu desvendou o livro, mas tava errada? Esse livro é tudoooo isso e muito mais.
AMEI AMEI AMEI
Esse livro ia ser brilhante no cinema. Adorei que ele foge complemente do convencional. Autora genial!!!!!!!!!
PHODASTICO
MARAVILHOSO
INCRÍVEL
DIVINO
INTELIGENTE
Leiaaaammmmm
July 30, 2018
kfforever
4.5 Stars ~ Reviewed by Anna Green on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
Sidebottom's latest work didn't disappoint. A standalone crime thriller packed with nail-biting action scenes laced with deadly riddles, there are two protagonists are featured in this story: Caelan Fen, a detective in the Met and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths. Two strangers who don’t know each other wake up in a strange place and the horror starts.
Nessa looks like the upstanding citizen, an attractive woman with a thriving career as a medical practitioner. But in every chapter, each layer of her persona is revealed: a dangerous lady who knows her guns like she knows how to handle a stethoscope. Who is she really? Can her background help her quest to finish the dangerous game the Game Master has set out for her?
Detective Caelan Fen is caught in the Game Master’s web and little by little he realises that in order for his loved ones to survive, he must help Nessa and try to beat the evil puppet master in his own sport.
I have read most of this author’s books and one thing I noticed is that almost all her heroines are tough as nails, flawed but strong just like Nessa. Told in alternating points of view, this crime thriller reminds me of the TV series, 24. Each chapter starts with a timeline and the protagonists must solve each puzzle or they suffer the consequences. Every page is action filled and little by little a mystery gets unravelled.
Cleverly written, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book albeit it kept me on the edge of my seat and had me biting my fingernails. I thought I had it figured out at about three-quarters of the story, but I was so wrong. The ending though is totally the author’s style: predictably unpredictable. If you want a book that will cause you whiplash from the twists and turns you can’t keep up with, then this is it! This story is perfect for adrenaline junkies who prefer to get their thrills from turning the pages of a book and not from jumping off an aeroplane!
4.5 Stars ~ Reviewed by Anna Green on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
Sidebottom's latest work didn't disappoint. A standalone crime thriller packed with nail-biting action scenes laced with deadly riddles, there are two protagonists are featured in this story: Caelan Fen, a detective in the Met and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths. Two strangers who don’t know each other wake up in a strange place and the horror starts.
Nessa looks like the upstanding citizen, an attractive woman with a thriving career as a medical practitioner. But in every chapter, each layer of her persona is revealed: a dangerous lady who knows her guns like she knows how to handle a stethoscope. Who is she really? Can her background help her quest to finish the dangerous game the Game Master has set out for her?
Detective Caelan Fen is caught in the Game Master’s web and little by little he realises that in order for his loved ones to survive, he must help Nessa and try to beat the evil puppet master in his own sport.
I have read most of this author’s books and one thing I noticed is that almost all her heroines are tough as nails, flawed but strong just like Nessa. Told in alternating points of view, this crime thriller reminds me of the TV series, 24. Each chapter starts with a timeline and the protagonists must solve each puzzle or they suffer the consequences. Every page is action filled and little by little a mystery gets unravelled.
Cleverly written, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book albeit it kept me on the edge of my seat and had me biting my fingernails. I thought I had it figured out at about three-quarters of the story, but I was so wrong. The ending though is totally the author’s style: predictably unpredictable. If you want a book that will cause you whiplash from the twists and turns you can’t keep up with, then this is it! This story is perfect for adrenaline junkies who prefer to get their thrills from turning the pages of a book and not from jumping off an aeroplane!
July 27, 2018
4.5 Stars ~ Reviewed on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
Sidebottom's latest work didn't disappoint. A standalone crime thriller packed with nail-biting action scenes laced with deadly riddles, there are two protagonists featured in this story: Caelan Fen, a detective in the Met and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths. Two strangers who don’t know each other wake up in a strange place and the horror starts.
Nessa looks like the upstanding citizen, an attractive woman with a thriving career as a medical practitioner. But in every chapter each layer of her persona is revealed: a dangerous lady who knows her guns like she knows how to handle a stethoscope. Who is she really? Can her background help her quest to finish the dangerous game the Game Master has set out for her?
Detective Caelan Fen is caught in the Game Master’s web and little by little he realises that in order for his loved ones to survive, he must help Nessa and try to beat the evil puppet master in his own sport.
I have read most of this author’s books and one thing I noticed is that almost all her heroines are tough as nails, flawed but strong just like Nessa. Told in alternating points of view, this crime thriller reminds me of the TV series, 24. Each chapter starts with a timeline and the protagonists must solve each puzzle or they suffer the consequences. Every page is action filled and little by little a mystery gets unravelled.
Cleverly written, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book albeit it kept me on the edge of my seat and had me biting my fingernails. I thought I had it figured out at about three-quarters of the story, but I was so wrong. The ending though is totally the author’s style: predictably unpredictable. If you want a book that will cause you whiplash from the twists and turns you can’t keep up with, then this is it! This story is perfect for adrenaline junkies who prefer to get their thrills from turning the pages of a book and not from jumping off an aeroplane!
Sidebottom's latest work didn't disappoint. A standalone crime thriller packed with nail-biting action scenes laced with deadly riddles, there are two protagonists featured in this story: Caelan Fen, a detective in the Met and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths. Two strangers who don’t know each other wake up in a strange place and the horror starts.
Nessa looks like the upstanding citizen, an attractive woman with a thriving career as a medical practitioner. But in every chapter each layer of her persona is revealed: a dangerous lady who knows her guns like she knows how to handle a stethoscope. Who is she really? Can her background help her quest to finish the dangerous game the Game Master has set out for her?
Detective Caelan Fen is caught in the Game Master’s web and little by little he realises that in order for his loved ones to survive, he must help Nessa and try to beat the evil puppet master in his own sport.
I have read most of this author’s books and one thing I noticed is that almost all her heroines are tough as nails, flawed but strong just like Nessa. Told in alternating points of view, this crime thriller reminds me of the TV series, 24. Each chapter starts with a timeline and the protagonists must solve each puzzle or they suffer the consequences. Every page is action filled and little by little a mystery gets unravelled.
Cleverly written, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book albeit it kept me on the edge of my seat and had me biting my fingernails. I thought I had it figured out at about three-quarters of the story, but I was so wrong. The ending though is totally the author’s style: predictably unpredictable. If you want a book that will cause you whiplash from the twists and turns you can’t keep up with, then this is it! This story is perfect for adrenaline junkies who prefer to get their thrills from turning the pages of a book and not from jumping off an aeroplane!
September 5, 2018
I was pretty much surprised by the content of this book and this is the first time I read from this author. She really did a fantastic job on writing and planning. I can't stop reading once I've started. I will categorise this book as a thriller for sure and may I label it an as "SAW the movie" instead?
The story started with a room with 2 gamer and their family were kidnapped by The Game Master (AKA GM). Dr Venness Griffiths (AKA Nessa), a surgeon and Caelan, A detective inspector. Both of them are chosen for a reason and while they try to play along with the games that are setted up by GM, they will need to solve riddles given by GM in order to save their family.
I really do not have a way to comment on this story except it is seriously one hell of a god damn good book that I personally think everyone should give this one a go. Trust me, once started you won't let go of it. It's the basic instinct that we all want to know the truth behind even if it is ugly. The ugly secret we want to buried deep down in our heart, the crime we did to protect ourself but costed collateral damage that we did not even notice. 4.8 stars for this book, totally recommended and worth every minute.
Brought to you by Kinky Minx
The story started with a room with 2 gamer and their family were kidnapped by The Game Master (AKA GM). Dr Venness Griffiths (AKA Nessa), a surgeon and Caelan, A detective inspector. Both of them are chosen for a reason and while they try to play along with the games that are setted up by GM, they will need to solve riddles given by GM in order to save their family.
I really do not have a way to comment on this story except it is seriously one hell of a god damn good book that I personally think everyone should give this one a go. Trust me, once started you won't let go of it. It's the basic instinct that we all want to know the truth behind even if it is ugly. The ugly secret we want to buried deep down in our heart, the crime we did to protect ourself but costed collateral damage that we did not even notice. 4.8 stars for this book, totally recommended and worth every minute.
Brought to you by Kinky Minx
July 29, 2018
ARGH!! Well played, Sidebottom, well played! I need to gather my feelings for this review. I feel a bit unleashed. This book totally played with my mind. Leave it Sidebottom to push me over the cliff, drag me back up, just to push me over again.
"I’m being persecuted by a guy who thinks the movie, Saw, was his own personal documentary."
I couldn't help but hear the eerie theme music from 'Saw' while reading this book. LOL Although this does have a certain Saw feel, it's way more than meets the eye. I was intrigued from start to finish. Trying to fit pieces and figure out the end game was exhilarating and suspenseful. Every secret revealed was a hidden knife in the back. I gasped with revelations and choked on deceptions. And just when you've got it all figured out, the rug is pulled out from underneath you.
WHAT A TWISTED RIDE!
"I’m being persecuted by a guy who thinks the movie, Saw, was his own personal documentary."
I couldn't help but hear the eerie theme music from 'Saw' while reading this book. LOL Although this does have a certain Saw feel, it's way more than meets the eye. I was intrigued from start to finish. Trying to fit pieces and figure out the end game was exhilarating and suspenseful. Every secret revealed was a hidden knife in the back. I gasped with revelations and choked on deceptions. And just when you've got it all figured out, the rug is pulled out from underneath you.
WHAT A TWISTED RIDE!
July 26, 2018
A nail-biting thriller! Wicked!
I loved it!
Game Master pulled me right into the story where I was lost to the world until I read "The End".
It is about a manipulative mastermind laying out clues that Caelan and Vanessa must solve before times runs out. It's not a romance, it's a gripping page-turner that will awestruck. It's Suspenseful and Exciting. So So Good.
I loved it!
Game Master pulled me right into the story where I was lost to the world until I read "The End".
It is about a manipulative mastermind laying out clues that Caelan and Vanessa must solve before times runs out. It's not a romance, it's a gripping page-turner that will awestruck. It's Suspenseful and Exciting. So So Good.
October 28, 2020
4+, emocjonująca i wciągająca historia, dawno tyle nie główkowałam :P ale czemu taki koniec :/ czegoś takiego się nie spodziewałam.. i jest mi z tego powodu smutno..
October 29, 2020
jestem w szoku, jestem zua, jestem zachwycona, jestem oszołomiona:o pfff... łąj?!?!?! ale z drugiej strony... nono! po prostu... daje fula.
October 26, 2020
Dla mnie super!! Tajemnica goni tajemnice, pod sam koniec dopiero wszystko się układa w całość. Dawni czegoś takiego nie czytałam, co ważne to żaden dark. Polecam szczerze.
July 28, 2018
I don't care when she releases them but I always get them she never disappoints her books are on point, you know from the first page you are in for a damn good read, with this though she took it to a whole new level What an absolutely brilliant book.
I was hooked from the very first page right until the very last one, I was like an ogre today, I knew i'd be like this once I started to read this, I wouldn't be able to stop. So nothing has been done, I am in peoples bad books do I care not a jot, I could not put this book down, the book is so unique and that I love, something completely left field you think you know what you are getting when you pick up one of Dawn's books heck no that's why I adore her works. The anticipation and the sheer excitement this story gave me. I had my fingers in my mouth biting them.
Caelan Fen, a detective and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths; brought together under the most horrific of circumstances by The Game Master. Waking up in a strange place Vanessa's reactions you can feel the tension the WTF moments coming through the pages, you are taken on the ride of your lives right along side them both. The horrors the nerves mine were shot on some of the things going on. They both have unbearable secrets that come to light as you work your way through the clues, nothing prepared me for some of the shocks I entail along the way. Just when I thought I had it figured out Dawn flips the whole thing upside down and I was left with my mouth agape !!! There is one scene in this that literally had my heart pounding
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would, an outstanding on the edge of your seat thriller, with twists and turns a plenty, I would love to see this on the big screen or small screen. What a tale Dawn has woven.From page one you are dragged into the intriguing game. My advice and really take it is do NOT read any spoilers, there are so many twists and jaw dropping moments that it doesn't let up, and that ending MY GOD, I did not expect that at all.
It had all the elements you need for a damn good read. It wasn't full of sex in fact there isn't any. what we do have is one Kick ass woman called Vanessa, I want to be her for one day. This for me is the book of the year.
Its full of riddles and races against the clock dire, situations The Russian Mafia, and for me it was set in London my capital. I loved everything about this book
--------------------------------
""Depravity had burrowed under my skin and infected every single cell that ran through my veins. Pollution slithered deep, poisoning what I would need to survive this. My own body attacked me from the inside out, repugnance impatient to purge the evil from within me. Disgust seeped through my pores, eager for escape.""""
---------------------------------
Dawn takes you an unbelievable ride with Vanessa and Fen, The Grand Master is evil personified, its not dark as what you might expect from this author its thrilling dangerous, mind f*** yes I could not put this down.
--------------------------------------
It wasn’t fear or apprehension, nor weakness and defeat that took me a step closer to the end square. But the strength and courage to bite down hard and flip Satan the bird that determined I would be the one to reach it first.
Sidebottom, D H. Game Master
I was hooked from the very first page right until the very last one, I was like an ogre today, I knew i'd be like this once I started to read this, I wouldn't be able to stop. So nothing has been done, I am in peoples bad books do I care not a jot, I could not put this book down, the book is so unique and that I love, something completely left field you think you know what you are getting when you pick up one of Dawn's books heck no that's why I adore her works. The anticipation and the sheer excitement this story gave me. I had my fingers in my mouth biting them.
Caelan Fen, a detective and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths; brought together under the most horrific of circumstances by The Game Master. Waking up in a strange place Vanessa's reactions you can feel the tension the WTF moments coming through the pages, you are taken on the ride of your lives right along side them both. The horrors the nerves mine were shot on some of the things going on. They both have unbearable secrets that come to light as you work your way through the clues, nothing prepared me for some of the shocks I entail along the way. Just when I thought I had it figured out Dawn flips the whole thing upside down and I was left with my mouth agape !!! There is one scene in this that literally had my heart pounding
If I could give this book more than 5 stars I would, an outstanding on the edge of your seat thriller, with twists and turns a plenty, I would love to see this on the big screen or small screen. What a tale Dawn has woven.From page one you are dragged into the intriguing game. My advice and really take it is do NOT read any spoilers, there are so many twists and jaw dropping moments that it doesn't let up, and that ending MY GOD, I did not expect that at all.
It had all the elements you need for a damn good read. It wasn't full of sex in fact there isn't any. what we do have is one Kick ass woman called Vanessa, I want to be her for one day. This for me is the book of the year.
Its full of riddles and races against the clock dire, situations The Russian Mafia, and for me it was set in London my capital. I loved everything about this book
--------------------------------
""Depravity had burrowed under my skin and infected every single cell that ran through my veins. Pollution slithered deep, poisoning what I would need to survive this. My own body attacked me from the inside out, repugnance impatient to purge the evil from within me. Disgust seeped through my pores, eager for escape.""""
---------------------------------
Dawn takes you an unbelievable ride with Vanessa and Fen, The Grand Master is evil personified, its not dark as what you might expect from this author its thrilling dangerous, mind f*** yes I could not put this down.
--------------------------------------
It wasn’t fear or apprehension, nor weakness and defeat that took me a step closer to the end square. But the strength and courage to bite down hard and flip Satan the bird that determined I would be the one to reach it first.
Sidebottom, D H. Game Master
1-tbr
July 19, 2018
October 3, 2020
4+
Bardzo emocjonująca, pełna tajemniczości i zagadek historia. Przez prawie całą książkę nie było wiadome o co biega i kto to wszystko robi, a przy grach, wychodzące na jaw tajemnice były zaskakujące. Sama końcówka pozostawiła mi ogromny niedosyt i za to właśnie obniżyłam o jedną gwiazdkę.
Bardzo emocjonująca, pełna tajemniczości i zagadek historia. Przez prawie całą książkę nie było wiadome o co biega i kto to wszystko robi, a przy grach, wychodzące na jaw tajemnice były zaskakujące. Sama końcówka pozostawiła mi ogromny niedosyt i za to właśnie obniżyłam o jedną gwiazdkę.
July 26, 2018
Brilliant !
Brilliant come back by Dawn. This book is full of twists, surprises and mind games.
Loved this book couldn't put it down.
5* read
Brilliant come back by Dawn. This book is full of twists, surprises and mind games.
Loved this book couldn't put it down.
5* read
July 27, 2018
Loved it! Couldn't put it down, absolute 5*
avoid-and-run-away
August 5, 2018July 28, 2018
What an absolutely brilliant book. I was hijacked from the very first page right until the very last one, I honestly could not put this book down, the story was so unusual, so unique that at times it had me biting my fingernails with the anticipation and excitement this story gave me. This is Dawn at her very best in my opinion, a crime thriller which was right up my street I was actually slightly broken when it came to the end.
Caelan Fen, a detective and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths; two complete strangers bought together under the most horrific of circumstances by The Game Master. Waking up in a strange place without a clue as to what was going on makes for the ride of the readers lives as we take this journey with them and what a journey it is. Both these characters have secrets that will come to light as you read along the story, but nothing quite prepares you for some of the shocks you entail along the way. Just when you think you have guessed where this story is going Dawn flips the whole thing round and I was left with my mouth agape !!!
One of the best books of 2018 in my opinion and one that I would really recommend you go and one click NOW !!!
Truly awesome work !!
Caelan Fen, a detective and Dr. Vanessa Griffiths; two complete strangers bought together under the most horrific of circumstances by The Game Master. Waking up in a strange place without a clue as to what was going on makes for the ride of the readers lives as we take this journey with them and what a journey it is. Both these characters have secrets that will come to light as you read along the story, but nothing quite prepares you for some of the shocks you entail along the way. Just when you think you have guessed where this story is going Dawn flips the whole thing round and I was left with my mouth agape !!!
One of the best books of 2018 in my opinion and one that I would really recommend you go and one click NOW !!!
Truly awesome work !!
Want to read
September 17, 2019
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Free for a limited time.
August 1, 2018
From start to Finnish I was hooked . Games Master has been playing with my mind the whole way through.
What happens after your 30th Birthady ?? Well this is one whopping hangover in reality it's not it's a race against time .
Nessa finds herself in a situation saving lives should come easy to a Dr ... but in this case all is not black and white ...
An unconscious cop and weird run down hospital ...
Riddles to decipher tasks to complete who will win against the Games Master !! What will the cost be ??
You just simply have to one click this book !!!
Feel your heart race with the twists and turns in this read .
You think you can win ??? It's easy just click !!
What happens after your 30th Birthady ?? Well this is one whopping hangover in reality it's not it's a race against time .
Nessa finds herself in a situation saving lives should come easy to a Dr ... but in this case all is not black and white ...
An unconscious cop and weird run down hospital ...
Riddles to decipher tasks to complete who will win against the Games Master !! What will the cost be ??
You just simply have to one click this book !!!
Feel your heart race with the twists and turns in this read .
You think you can win ??? It's easy just click !!
July 29, 2018
I think I have read everything this author has written. I read her books so fast, because I just can’t stop. I knew right from the start that this book was entirely different than anything she had done before, and I was so curious as too how this would go. Let me say that I think this may be her best book. It was so different but at the same time there was never any doubt who’s book you were reading. She has a unique style that grabs you at page one and never let’s go.
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