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The Dead Girl in 2A
Jake Buchannan knows the woman sitting next to him on his business flight to Denver—he just can’t figure out how he knows her. Clara Stowe isn’t in Jake’s line of work and didn’t go to college with him. They have nearly nothing in common apart from a deep and shared certainty that they’ve met before. Despite their best efforts over a probing conversation, both struggle to figure out what circumstances could possibly have brought them together. Then, in a revelation that sends Jake reeling, Clara admits she’s traveling to the Colorado mountains to kill herself, and disappears into the crowded airport immediately after landing.
The Dead Girl in 2A is the story of what happens to Jake and Clara after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together decades after they first met.
The Dead Girl in 2A is the story of what happens to Jake and Clara after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together decades after they first met.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2019
396 people are currently reading
5937 people want to read
About the author
Carter Wilson
13 books1,518 followersCarter Wilson is the USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of ten psychological thrillers, known for their intense emotion, tight pacing, and haunting twists. His books have received starred reviews from every major trade publication, have been optioned for film and television, and his 2025 novel Tell Me What You Did was selected as a national monthly pick by Barnes & Noble.
In addition to his fiction, Carter is the creator and host of Making It Up, a podcast featuring unscripted, revealing conversations with fellow writers about the creative process. He is also the founder of Unbound Writer, a company devoted to helping writers find their voice through coaching, immersive retreats, and online classes.
A seasoned public speaker and natural interviewer, Carter is known for his dynamic onstage presence and his deep curiosity about the craft of writing. He lives in Erie, Colorado, and travels frequently to speak at conferences, moderate author panels, and lead writing workshops.
Visit him at www.carterwilson.com and www.unboundwriter.com.
In addition to his fiction, Carter is the creator and host of Making It Up, a podcast featuring unscripted, revealing conversations with fellow writers about the creative process. He is also the founder of Unbound Writer, a company devoted to helping writers find their voice through coaching, immersive retreats, and online classes.
A seasoned public speaker and natural interviewer, Carter is known for his dynamic onstage presence and his deep curiosity about the craft of writing. He lives in Erie, Colorado, and travels frequently to speak at conferences, moderate author panels, and lead writing workshops.
Visit him at www.carterwilson.com and www.unboundwriter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 663 reviews
August 11, 2024
Deliciously different from all the rest. It had that confusing ‘what’s going on here’ vibe that messed with my head. I actually had a strange and surrealistic dream afterwards and even felt afraid. Especially the first part was like that, with lots of suspense as well. I also loved the camaraderie that developed after a while. Overall a pleasant surprise.
May 27, 2019
This is my second novel by Carter Wilson, and my love affair with his books are a bit confounding. I've given both this novel and last year's Mister Tender's Girl 3 stars, but they are very high 3 star ratings that I recommend with gusto. While I did feel like this one could have been executed slightly better in terms of length and delving deeper into some of the explanations, I had a seriously fun time reading The Dead Girl in 2A, and if it sounds up your alley, do yourself a favor and go in blind without reading reviews beforehand. I'm purposefully keeping my thoughts vague as to let future readers go in with an open mind, but if you're looking for a highly entertaining summer read that is full of unique twists and turns, put this on on your TBR immediately.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy via NetGalley.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy via NetGalley.
July 9, 2019
A poor man's Dean Koontz!
On a flight to Denver, ghostwriter Jake Buchannan experiences déjà vu when he sets eyes on the woman sitting next to him, in – you guessed it – seat 2A.
Clara also feels a strange sense of familiarity regarding him, but neither recall ever meeting before. They get to talking, and Jake is shocked when Clara confides in him that she is travelling to Denver with the intention of committing suicide.
He tries to convince her otherwise, but when they land, he has no choice but to let her walk away, but he can't get her out of his head. Then, at the hotel bar, he encounters another mysterious woman.
First things first, I feel it's crucial to mention that this is less psychological thriller and domestic noir, more scientific medical thriller. I admire Carter Wilson for doing something different, but the execution didn't work for me, and there were long stretches where the plot dragged. I was expecting it to be more action-driven, so was disappointed with the overly-descriptive introspective dreamlike chapters. Even the cat-and-mouse game between the good and bad guys grew tiresome. There were some shocks and surprises, and Jake was a character I was genuinely rooting for, but even still this one was only average for me.
Chapters alternate between Jake and journal entries from ‘The Book of Clara'. It's a quick, fast read that's easy to follow so perfect for those on the go, or whose reading time is limited.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Sourcebooks, and Carter Wilson for the e-ARC.
Out now!
On a flight to Denver, ghostwriter Jake Buchannan experiences déjà vu when he sets eyes on the woman sitting next to him, in – you guessed it – seat 2A.
Clara also feels a strange sense of familiarity regarding him, but neither recall ever meeting before. They get to talking, and Jake is shocked when Clara confides in him that she is travelling to Denver with the intention of committing suicide.
He tries to convince her otherwise, but when they land, he has no choice but to let her walk away, but he can't get her out of his head. Then, at the hotel bar, he encounters another mysterious woman.
First things first, I feel it's crucial to mention that this is less psychological thriller and domestic noir, more scientific medical thriller. I admire Carter Wilson for doing something different, but the execution didn't work for me, and there were long stretches where the plot dragged. I was expecting it to be more action-driven, so was disappointed with the overly-descriptive introspective dreamlike chapters. Even the cat-and-mouse game between the good and bad guys grew tiresome. There were some shocks and surprises, and Jake was a character I was genuinely rooting for, but even still this one was only average for me.
Chapters alternate between Jake and journal entries from ‘The Book of Clara'. It's a quick, fast read that's easy to follow so perfect for those on the go, or whose reading time is limited.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Sourcebooks, and Carter Wilson for the e-ARC.
Out now!
April 14, 2019
"This is some messed-up shit."
I don't think there is a better quote to sum up this book! Jake and Clara happen to sit next to each other on a flight and both have a feeling that they know each other from somewhere. In an attempt to find a link between them, they reveal parts of their lives to one another and discover that they are both orphans who tragically lost their parents at the age of 8 and 7 respectively, but neither of them can remember anything from that time of their life. Clara also confesses to Jake that she is flying to Denver to kill herself.
Having never read a book by Carter Wilson, this book was a nice surprise for me. I really enjoyed this twisted thriller where the lives of the two main characters intertwine in the most bizarre circumstances as they start to uncover the truth about their childhood and erased memories. Fans of psychological thrillers are in for a treat! Although, I would say that as with most psychological thrillers, you will need to suspend your disbelief to truly enjoy it.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for my review copy in exchange for an honest review.
I don't think there is a better quote to sum up this book! Jake and Clara happen to sit next to each other on a flight and both have a feeling that they know each other from somewhere. In an attempt to find a link between them, they reveal parts of their lives to one another and discover that they are both orphans who tragically lost their parents at the age of 8 and 7 respectively, but neither of them can remember anything from that time of their life. Clara also confesses to Jake that she is flying to Denver to kill herself.
Having never read a book by Carter Wilson, this book was a nice surprise for me. I really enjoyed this twisted thriller where the lives of the two main characters intertwine in the most bizarre circumstances as they start to uncover the truth about their childhood and erased memories. Fans of psychological thrillers are in for a treat! Although, I would say that as with most psychological thrillers, you will need to suspend your disbelief to truly enjoy it.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for my review copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2019
When Jake Buchanan is seated next to Clara Stowe on a flight to Denver they both get that feeling that they've met before. They also have quite a lot in common, including that they are both orphans and are suffering increasing memory loss. Jake is on his way to Denver to ghost write a memoir for a wealthy man while Clara tells him she has decided to kill herself in the Colorado mountains.
This is a twisted tale of repressed memories, secret programs and a man who has been manipulating Jake and Clara for his own means. It did all feel a little too contrived to me but made for a different type of mystery that will appeal to many. 3.5★
With thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a digital ARC to read.
This is a twisted tale of repressed memories, secret programs and a man who has been manipulating Jake and Clara for his own means. It did all feel a little too contrived to me but made for a different type of mystery that will appeal to many. 3.5★
With thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a digital ARC to read.
March 21, 2019
What a surprise this book was. I guess I was expecting something different to read but I really liked how it turned out. Two people Jake and Clara meet on the plane and they have this feeling that they know each other from somewhere. They also suffer from memory loss. What else connects this two? This book is unique and definitely a page turner with a lot of twists.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2020
Don’t you just hate when a book is totally misrepresented in the synopsis? I do, and “The dead girl in 2A” is a great example of misrepresantion. How many of you thought this would be a psychological suspense story. I requested it because that’s what the synopsis promised, but nothing further from the truth.
I found the initial premise very interesting but as soon as it started to develop and the government program was revealed I found myself losing interest quite quickly. That was not the story I wanted to read!!
I don’t think all that memory loss and the subsequent experiment was adequately explained, barely skimming the surface of the science behind it. I found the villain quite ridiculous and his motivations so laughable. In fact, I don’t think any character was developed enough. With the government experiment background you would expect some kind of tension building troughout the story, but I didn’t felt it at any moment, and the finale was quite lackluster.
If you plan on reading this based only on the synopsis think about it again as you probably will be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks, Poisoned Pen Press for providing and eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I found the initial premise very interesting but as soon as it started to develop and the government program was revealed I found myself losing interest quite quickly. That was not the story I wanted to read!!
I don’t think all that memory loss and the subsequent experiment was adequately explained, barely skimming the surface of the science behind it. I found the villain quite ridiculous and his motivations so laughable. In fact, I don’t think any character was developed enough. With the government experiment background you would expect some kind of tension building troughout the story, but I didn’t felt it at any moment, and the finale was quite lackluster.
If you plan on reading this based only on the synopsis think about it again as you probably will be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks, Poisoned Pen Press for providing and eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2019
People who have cracks in their souls seem to gravitate toward those recognizable scars in others.
Jake Buchannan is a freelance writer whose articles appear in men's magazines. His other claim to fame is ghost writing for those wishing to publish their memoirs. But Jake has been slamming into more and more episodes of memory slips and mood swings. It's taken its toll on his marriage and his relationship with his eight year old daughter, Em. His wife, Abby, is emotionally unreachable as Jake was responsible for a car accident involving Em.
With medical bills mounting, Jake takes a job with quite a few perks offered by Alexander Eaton. Eaton proposes that Jake write his memoir. He flies Jake out to Denver first class with several days at a high-end hotel. The money up front is too much to turn down.
As Jake tries to relax in his cushy first class seat, he notices the woman sitting next to him. Even with a currently faulty memory, Jake feels that he's crossed paths with this woman. She introduces herself as Clara Stowe, a former teacher. Clara has her own agenda. She's hellbent on taking her own life at the Maroon Bells in the Rockies soon after they land. Neither one can come up with a link between them. But it's there......oh, it's there.
This was my first book by Carter Wilson. He's buttered this one on both sides with quite the psychological twisties. The majority of the book was well done and intriguing. However, it then became a bit burdensome like the weight of those repressed memories that will soon come to light. The more that the backstories were revealed, the more the reader becomes aware of the subplot. The ending was folded up too neatly like an airlines napkin on that flight.
The Dead Girl in 2A has its moments and maybe shouldn't be missed. Perhaps it's time for a little mind messin' this summer for a change. Seatbelts obligatory.
I received a copy of The Dead Girl in 2A through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Sourcebooks and to Carter Wilson for the opportunity.
Jake Buchannan is a freelance writer whose articles appear in men's magazines. His other claim to fame is ghost writing for those wishing to publish their memoirs. But Jake has been slamming into more and more episodes of memory slips and mood swings. It's taken its toll on his marriage and his relationship with his eight year old daughter, Em. His wife, Abby, is emotionally unreachable as Jake was responsible for a car accident involving Em.
With medical bills mounting, Jake takes a job with quite a few perks offered by Alexander Eaton. Eaton proposes that Jake write his memoir. He flies Jake out to Denver first class with several days at a high-end hotel. The money up front is too much to turn down.
As Jake tries to relax in his cushy first class seat, he notices the woman sitting next to him. Even with a currently faulty memory, Jake feels that he's crossed paths with this woman. She introduces herself as Clara Stowe, a former teacher. Clara has her own agenda. She's hellbent on taking her own life at the Maroon Bells in the Rockies soon after they land. Neither one can come up with a link between them. But it's there......oh, it's there.
This was my first book by Carter Wilson. He's buttered this one on both sides with quite the psychological twisties. The majority of the book was well done and intriguing. However, it then became a bit burdensome like the weight of those repressed memories that will soon come to light. The more that the backstories were revealed, the more the reader becomes aware of the subplot. The ending was folded up too neatly like an airlines napkin on that flight.
The Dead Girl in 2A has its moments and maybe shouldn't be missed. Perhaps it's time for a little mind messin' this summer for a change. Seatbelts obligatory.
I received a copy of The Dead Girl in 2A through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Sourcebooks and to Carter Wilson for the opportunity.
July 22, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Carter Wilson does it again with The Dead Girl in 2A! Even though it took a bit to hold my attention, once I was in, I was IN.
What it's about: Jake Buchannan and Clara Stowe meet on an airplane bound for Denver in seats 2A and 2B and swear they've met before but can't figure out where. After a slightly uncomfortable conversation, they realize they really don't have much in common besides the feeling they have met before. They are going to go their separate ways when Clara drops the bombshell that she is ultimately flying to the mountains to kill herself. What happens next is the story of what happens after they step off the airplane, and how someone from their pasts come back to haunt them.
Wilson definitely went delving into the complications of memory with The Dead Girl in 2A, and it was really quite interesting. There was also a bit of a science fiction feel to this book, especially when you get towards the end. I wasn't really expecting that, but I really enjoyed it. I've never read a book that focuses as much on memory as this novel did, so it was nice to read something different.
There were a couple parts that ended up getting a bit gory, but nothing too crazy. And in true Carter Wilson fashion, he manages to make you cringe while at the same time fascinating you. I was honestly hoping I would love this one a bit more, but I still really enjoyed it. There are some journal entries that I really liked, and the short chapters made the book go by quickly. This was one of the most interesting thrillers that I have read in awhile and while it might be considered a little unconventional in the thriller department, that's what made it even better to me.
Song/s the book brought to mind: A mix of You Found Me by Kelly Clarkson & Yesterday by David Guetta featuring Bebe Rexha.
Final Thought: If you are looking for a book that speaks to human suffering and memory loss, I would definitely pick up The Dead Girl in 2A. I kept my review short for this one because I think the book is better that way, and I don't want to spoil anything! Although I do think it starts out slowly, it does pick up and ends up being worth it in the end. I really liked the ending, and of course I can't wait to see what comes out of Wilson's imagination next!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Carter Wilson does it again with The Dead Girl in 2A! Even though it took a bit to hold my attention, once I was in, I was IN.
What it's about: Jake Buchannan and Clara Stowe meet on an airplane bound for Denver in seats 2A and 2B and swear they've met before but can't figure out where. After a slightly uncomfortable conversation, they realize they really don't have much in common besides the feeling they have met before. They are going to go their separate ways when Clara drops the bombshell that she is ultimately flying to the mountains to kill herself. What happens next is the story of what happens after they step off the airplane, and how someone from their pasts come back to haunt them.
Wilson definitely went delving into the complications of memory with The Dead Girl in 2A, and it was really quite interesting. There was also a bit of a science fiction feel to this book, especially when you get towards the end. I wasn't really expecting that, but I really enjoyed it. I've never read a book that focuses as much on memory as this novel did, so it was nice to read something different.
There were a couple parts that ended up getting a bit gory, but nothing too crazy. And in true Carter Wilson fashion, he manages to make you cringe while at the same time fascinating you. I was honestly hoping I would love this one a bit more, but I still really enjoyed it. There are some journal entries that I really liked, and the short chapters made the book go by quickly. This was one of the most interesting thrillers that I have read in awhile and while it might be considered a little unconventional in the thriller department, that's what made it even better to me.
Song/s the book brought to mind: A mix of You Found Me by Kelly Clarkson & Yesterday by David Guetta featuring Bebe Rexha.
Final Thought: If you are looking for a book that speaks to human suffering and memory loss, I would definitely pick up The Dead Girl in 2A. I kept my review short for this one because I think the book is better that way, and I don't want to spoil anything! Although I do think it starts out slowly, it does pick up and ends up being worth it in the end. I really liked the ending, and of course I can't wait to see what comes out of Wilson's imagination next!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
June 24, 2019
After reading and loving Mister Tender's Girl last year, I was really excited to read the newest release by Carter Wilson! Unfortunately, this one didn't work nearly as well for me. The book focuses on memory loss, and a group of people connected through their past, though "how" they are connected isn't revealed until later in the book.
I was enjoying the book up until the "how" was revealed, and it took a totally different direction than I was expecting. A minor spoiler coming up, but one I feel is important to know before deciding whether or not to read the book (had I known, I would have skipped this one), is that the book's main focus is a government testing program that caused memory loss. It got way too sci-fi for me, and I've read similar books in the past that dealt with government conspiracies, or government testing, and I've hated them all, so I wish I would have known that prior to going into this book.
If you're okay with genre bending, or you enjoy those types of themes and plots in books, you may enjoy this one. Sadly, it just wasn't for me. That said, I do like Carter's writing style, so I look forward to his next release. I'd like to thank Sourcebooks for my advanced copy of The Dead Girl in 2A. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
I was enjoying the book up until the "how" was revealed, and it took a totally different direction than I was expecting. A minor spoiler coming up, but one I feel is important to know before deciding whether or not to read the book (had I known, I would have skipped this one), is that the book's main focus is a government testing program that caused memory loss. It got way too sci-fi for me, and I've read similar books in the past that dealt with government conspiracies, or government testing, and I've hated them all, so I wish I would have known that prior to going into this book.
If you're okay with genre bending, or you enjoy those types of themes and plots in books, you may enjoy this one. Sadly, it just wasn't for me. That said, I do like Carter's writing style, so I look forward to his next release. I'd like to thank Sourcebooks for my advanced copy of The Dead Girl in 2A. It was my pleasure to provide an honest review.
July 25, 2019
4/5 Brilliant Stars!!
Dark, twisty, unique suspense with a mix of sci-fi. This was such a great read for me and I honestly did not expect to love it so much. Well-written story that pulled me in from the first pages, and kept me on the edge of the seat till the end. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a fresh, unique, and quite eerie suspense/mystery novel. This read is definitely a delicious treat.
Thank you NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press, and the author, Carter Wilson, for giving me an opportunity to read an ARC of this brilliant novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dark, twisty, unique suspense with a mix of sci-fi. This was such a great read for me and I honestly did not expect to love it so much. Well-written story that pulled me in from the first pages, and kept me on the edge of the seat till the end. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a fresh, unique, and quite eerie suspense/mystery novel. This read is definitely a delicious treat.
Thank you NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press, and the author, Carter Wilson, for giving me an opportunity to read an ARC of this brilliant novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 5, 2019
My love with this author continues!
My favorite things about Wilson's books are that they are unique, unpredictable, and very entertaining. I love that he constantly pushes the envelope. While I wouldn't classify all his works as psychological thrillers, they definitely rank high on the intensity meter!
Part thriller, part mystery, and even parts sci fi make this a twisty fun read that will keep you guessing!
*Kept one star off rating due to a lull just after the half way mark and for some of the unexplained conveniences used to help propel the story forward.*
ARC provided by NetGalley
My favorite things about Wilson's books are that they are unique, unpredictable, and very entertaining. I love that he constantly pushes the envelope. While I wouldn't classify all his works as psychological thrillers, they definitely rank high on the intensity meter!
Part thriller, part mystery, and even parts sci fi make this a twisty fun read that will keep you guessing!
*Kept one star off rating due to a lull just after the half way mark and for some of the unexplained conveniences used to help propel the story forward.*
ARC provided by NetGalley
May 28, 2019
Jake Buchanan feels like he somehow knows the woman seated next to him, in seat 2A, on his flight to Denver. He just isn’t sure how.
Clara, the woman seated in 2A, feels like she knows Jake too.
Just before landing, she reveals that she is traveling to the Colorado Mountains to commit suicide. Jake follows her into the crowded terminal, and thrusts his card into her hands, wanting to, but feeling helpless, to stop her.
This is the supposed to be the story of what transpires after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together, decades after they first met.
It is.
But, it’s NOT anything like I expected it to be.
Expecting a psychological thriller, I requested this one from Netgalley, but the line I SHOULD HAVE paid more attention to is....”the manipulative figure who has brought them together”.
Think “Anonymous Girl” meets M. Night Shyamalen or perhaps Josh Malerman’s “Inspection”.
More of a “psychological study” or “Government experiment” kind of story.
If you like THAT kind of thriller, I think you will be pleased.
But, if, like me, you envisioned something different from the synopsis, this may not be for you, as it wasn’t quite for me. Not bad writing...just a title AND synopsis which doesn’t quite fit.
I hate when that happens! 🤦🏻♀️
I would like to thank Netgalley, Sourcebooks-Poisoned Pens Press, and Carter Wilson for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review. This book will be released on July 02, 2019
Clara, the woman seated in 2A, feels like she knows Jake too.
Just before landing, she reveals that she is traveling to the Colorado Mountains to commit suicide. Jake follows her into the crowded terminal, and thrusts his card into her hands, wanting to, but feeling helpless, to stop her.
This is the supposed to be the story of what transpires after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together, decades after they first met.
It is.
But, it’s NOT anything like I expected it to be.
Expecting a psychological thriller, I requested this one from Netgalley, but the line I SHOULD HAVE paid more attention to is....”the manipulative figure who has brought them together”.
Think “Anonymous Girl” meets M. Night Shyamalen or perhaps Josh Malerman’s “Inspection”.
More of a “psychological study” or “Government experiment” kind of story.
If you like THAT kind of thriller, I think you will be pleased.
But, if, like me, you envisioned something different from the synopsis, this may not be for you, as it wasn’t quite for me. Not bad writing...just a title AND synopsis which doesn’t quite fit.
I hate when that happens! 🤦🏻♀️
I would like to thank Netgalley, Sourcebooks-Poisoned Pens Press, and Carter Wilson for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review. This book will be released on July 02, 2019
June 30, 2019
Last year I read and loved Mr Tenders Girl so when I saw that Carter Wilson had another book out I jumped at the chance to read it. And I wasn't disappointed at all. This book was nothing like I expected at all but all in a good way. The blurb just scrapes the surface of this book, there is so much more involved once you get into it. All I can is go into this book with an open mind and you will enjoy it. It is twisty, dark, freaky and dramatic... all making for a fantastic read.
So far as the story goes all you need to know is the basics... Jake is headed to Denver for work when he meets Clara. She has been given a surprise upgrade and is sitting next to Jake. They both feel that they know the other but are not sure how or where from. Both have been struggling with memory loss in recent times. Clare admits to Jake that she is going to Denver to kill herself. And that is all you are getting, After all of this you need to read the book to find out what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
So far as the story goes all you need to know is the basics... Jake is headed to Denver for work when he meets Clara. She has been given a surprise upgrade and is sitting next to Jake. They both feel that they know the other but are not sure how or where from. Both have been struggling with memory loss in recent times. Clare admits to Jake that she is going to Denver to kill herself. And that is all you are getting, After all of this you need to read the book to find out what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
February 18, 2019
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a review copy of this book. I found the title really intriguing and the description just as, if not more intriguing.
The concept of this book is truly unique, imaginative and interesting. A lot of thought and creativity has clearly been put into it.
I loved the aspects of repressed memories, trauma, family and manipulation that is explored within the novel.
As a psychological thriller it definitely ticks my boxes. It wasn’t too predictable and it wasn’t too outlandish that it became fantasy.
The only down point is that there are some areas of the book that I would have liked to have been explored a little bit more.
The concept of this book is truly unique, imaginative and interesting. A lot of thought and creativity has clearly been put into it.
I loved the aspects of repressed memories, trauma, family and manipulation that is explored within the novel.
As a psychological thriller it definitely ticks my boxes. It wasn’t too predictable and it wasn’t too outlandish that it became fantasy.
The only down point is that there are some areas of the book that I would have liked to have been explored a little bit more.
February 11, 2019
This is probably a terribly sexist way to start a review, but it’s been so long since I’ve read a thriller by a male author. Or maybe it just seems that way because the genre is currently so overpopulated by female authors. Which is good and occasionally great, but as with so many things the popularity doesn’t necessarily bode well for quality control. But this guy…I like this guy. I’ve read most of his books, almost all of them, probably. So when his latest showed up on Netgalley, I requested it without even reading a description and read it almost immediately upon getting approved by the publisher. And sure enough, Wilson’s done it again. His other books have always been good, his latest preceding this one was awesome and this one is somewhere in between, but closer to awesome. This opinion is certainly helped by the fact that he used one of my favorite themes…psychological experimentation, think secret government research of 60s and 70s. Creepy, trippy, all that. Now imagine if some of those scientists continued the work in secrecy on their own after CIA has ended the program. I really should say more, the book’s description is sparse, probably strategically so as to not give too much away. Just as it should be, because the plot is a doozy. At least until you figure out what’s going on which’ll take place around 50% in. From there on it’s revelation upon revelation, but until then it’s just this great WTF*ckery wherein you’re completely unsure what’s going on, what’s the connection between the characters, is it supernatural or otherwise, what are these strange books, what are these strange thoughts and what have they forgotten. And it’s just so freaking fresh to have a genuinely mysterious mystery that doesn’t stick to any formulas (outside of the split narrative thing) and kinda boggles the mind. I’ve been reading entirely too many mysteries, suspense thrillers, etc. and correspondingly I’ve been figuring them out easier, which isn’t optimal, because one of the greatest things the genre offers is surprises and twists. So I was so glad, delighted, thrilled even, appropriately enough, to read a mystery that’s actually unpredictable and tough to figure out. (And if you like this sort of theme, check out Josh Malerman’s Inspection). Many thanks to the author for making the genre shine as bright as it ought to with this terrific, wildly original tale of dark psychological suspense. I liked it so much, just about loved it, thought the denouement dragged out ever so slightly for longer than expected and maybe the ending was slightly too cheery, but otherwise it was great. It read quickly, it puzzled, it entertained. It did all the things it was supposed to. I’m so pleased to be the first person reviewing this book or more like singing its praises, but seriously, this was so much fun. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
June 16, 2019
Thank You for Net Galley, the publishers and a friend and member from my thriller group "A Good Thriller" Carter Wilson for a copy of this book.
Jack Buchanan knows the woman sitting next to him on his business flight to Denver―he just can't figure out how he knows her. Clara Stowe isn't in Jake's line of work and didn't go to college with him. They have nearly nothing in common apart from a deep and shared certainty that they've met before. As their airplane conversation deepens, both struggle to figure out what circumstances could have possibly brought them together. Then, in a revelation that sends Jake reeling, Clara admits she's traveling to the Colorado mountains to kill herself, and she disappears into the crowded airport immediately after landing.
The Dead Girl in 2A is the story of what happens to Jake and Clara after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together decades after they first met. Intensely creepy, beautifully written, and full of Carter Wilson's signature whom-can-you-trust paranoia, this is a psychological thriller unlike any you've read before.
This is a statement sentence "Thriller unlike any you've read before". This is so true, a unique story and amazing this comes from one mind the thoughts of one person.
It holds your attention all the way, I had no idea where this book was going, how the story would unfold, told from Clara and Jake life's unfolding in front of them.
With some very strong characters, well paced and thoughtful book. The weakness of the book was the ending, maybe I was hoping for a real big explosive shocking ending, yes a few shocks but I had guest the main surprise.
But I did enjoy the rare and unique story, not as good as "The Comfort of Black" or Carter Wilson best book " Miss Tender's Girl"
So three stars from me
Jack Buchanan knows the woman sitting next to him on his business flight to Denver―he just can't figure out how he knows her. Clara Stowe isn't in Jake's line of work and didn't go to college with him. They have nearly nothing in common apart from a deep and shared certainty that they've met before. As their airplane conversation deepens, both struggle to figure out what circumstances could have possibly brought them together. Then, in a revelation that sends Jake reeling, Clara admits she's traveling to the Colorado mountains to kill herself, and she disappears into the crowded airport immediately after landing.
The Dead Girl in 2A is the story of what happens to Jake and Clara after they get off that plane, and the manipulative figure who has brought them together decades after they first met. Intensely creepy, beautifully written, and full of Carter Wilson's signature whom-can-you-trust paranoia, this is a psychological thriller unlike any you've read before.
This is a statement sentence "Thriller unlike any you've read before". This is so true, a unique story and amazing this comes from one mind the thoughts of one person.
It holds your attention all the way, I had no idea where this book was going, how the story would unfold, told from Clara and Jake life's unfolding in front of them.
With some very strong characters, well paced and thoughtful book. The weakness of the book was the ending, maybe I was hoping for a real big explosive shocking ending, yes a few shocks but I had guest the main surprise.
But I did enjoy the rare and unique story, not as good as "The Comfort of Black" or Carter Wilson best book " Miss Tender's Girl"
So three stars from me
June 29, 2019
...if you put fancy clothes on a scarecrow, no one would remark, "That's a nice scarecrow." They'd say, "What the fuck is that thing?"
This quote, found near the beginning of this story, literally made me laugh out loud...but it also, unfortunately, pretty accurately describes how I feel about this book.
What the fuck IS this thing?
Based on the synopsis, I was expecting a really creative psychological thriller.
What I got?
A really weird, boring psychological/government study.
Now, I could potentially get behind a book about government research on humans...had the synopsis led me in that direction. Unfortunately, since I expected something entirely different, I felt more annoyed than anything. And honestly, regardless of the description of the book, I still don't think I'd have enjoyed The Dead Girl in 2A much, as it's very, very slow...barely skimming the surfaces of why all these crazy things are happening. Worse, the characters are poorly developed. I had zero desire to pick this novel up and read...that rarely happens to me.
Honestly, I don't have anything else to say. All I can suggest is to be aware the synopsis is somewhat misleading and go in with an open mind.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press, and Carter Wilson for my digital ARC.
Publication date: July 2, 2019
Goodreads review posted: June 28, 2019
March 2, 2020
This book was repetitive, predictable, and extremely wordy. 10 chapters in the middle could have been taken out because it was just repeating the same information but the characters kept acting surprised. I don’t think the synopsis was accurate and had I known that, it wouldn’t have been a book I would have picked up. It was very strange, almost science fictiony. I should have abandoned the book but I just kept hoping it would get better. It didn’t.
February 23, 2019
This book was a very unusual kind of book. Unlike anything I have read before. I see I am in the minority as a lot of others have given it 4-5 stars. It had a very interesting storyline and had me guessing until the end. I feel like a lot of thought and research went into this book just to get the story to flow like it did.
June 23, 2019
You know those books that you've read a while back but that still make you cringe every time someone mentions them? This is one of them.
It's so interesting and you won't be able to put it down at first. But then you kinda start doubting if this sort of story is actually possible and well...it goes sci-fi (or at least in my opinion is too far fetched to be realistic) and if you're not a fan of that genre, you might need a drink to get through it.
I needed to drop it and watch a little Netflix and then return to be able to gut it.
I want to emphasize how much I loved the synopsis. The idea, the catchy premise, the intrigue...my mind was already going crazy trying to figure out what it's about. How will Carter Wilson pull it off?
I want to say that I'm not a fan of these kinds of crazy plots, but I just looked at my book history and hello - yes, I have been. So then it was more this book than a book like this in general and I can't figure out why. I think it's more personal than general. Sometimes we just don't latch onto the character's inner journey and kinda miss the entire emotional ride altogether because of that.
This book will surely be a gem for those who like guessing the ending, and/or are tired of predictable crime thrillers. It might make you cry and it might feel like the INCEPTION world in a book format.
Thank you Sourcebooks and Poisoned Pen Press (what a name!) for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
It's so interesting and you won't be able to put it down at first. But then you kinda start doubting if this sort of story is actually possible and well...it goes sci-fi (or at least in my opinion is too far fetched to be realistic) and if you're not a fan of that genre, you might need a drink to get through it.
I needed to drop it and watch a little Netflix and then return to be able to gut it.
I want to emphasize how much I loved the synopsis. The idea, the catchy premise, the intrigue...my mind was already going crazy trying to figure out what it's about. How will Carter Wilson pull it off?
I want to say that I'm not a fan of these kinds of crazy plots, but I just looked at my book history and hello - yes, I have been. So then it was more this book than a book like this in general and I can't figure out why. I think it's more personal than general. Sometimes we just don't latch onto the character's inner journey and kinda miss the entire emotional ride altogether because of that.
This book will surely be a gem for those who like guessing the ending, and/or are tired of predictable crime thrillers. It might make you cry and it might feel like the INCEPTION world in a book format.
Thank you Sourcebooks and Poisoned Pen Press (what a name!) for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2019
Jake and Clara meet on an airplane and instantly feel a connection but can’t figure out how they are familiar with each other. Jake is headed to Denver to write a memoir for a man he has never met. His seat-mate Clara (in seat 2A) is on a one-way ticket, writing her personal memoir (in reverse order) and committed 100% to ending her life. Jake is desperate to help Clara but she is determined to carry out her plan. They go their separate ways but clearly remain in each other’s thoughts.
Complexity of characters and their journey to self-actualization was compelling. The inclusion of the clever yet disturbing “Responsibility of Death” book and a little blue ‘magic’ pill are creatively incorporated. I disliked some of the dark scenes and obsession with death but was wowed by the ending, found myself holding my breath and glad I stuck with the book. Thanks to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 3.5 rounded up.
Complexity of characters and their journey to self-actualization was compelling. The inclusion of the clever yet disturbing “Responsibility of Death” book and a little blue ‘magic’ pill are creatively incorporated. I disliked some of the dark scenes and obsession with death but was wowed by the ending, found myself holding my breath and glad I stuck with the book. Thanks to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. 3.5 rounded up.
April 20, 2019
3.5/5 rounded up for its uniqueness
This was a well-done book that’s rooted in realism, but with sci-fi and fantasy elements. It reminded me of the book Annihilation in that sense.
“If this is a dream, it’s the most goddamn realistic one I’ve ever had.”
This book felt like a dream - a fever dream. I recommend reading it straight through and getting lost in the confusion. I got a little bit bored about a third of the way through, but it finished strong.
“Maybe that’s what death is. A permanent state of remembrance.”
The Dead Girl in 2A has intertwining themes of memory, family, childhood, trust, death, and regret.
Overall it was just a really good and different story.
This was a well-done book that’s rooted in realism, but with sci-fi and fantasy elements. It reminded me of the book Annihilation in that sense.
“If this is a dream, it’s the most goddamn realistic one I’ve ever had.”
This book felt like a dream - a fever dream. I recommend reading it straight through and getting lost in the confusion. I got a little bit bored about a third of the way through, but it finished strong.
“Maybe that’s what death is. A permanent state of remembrance.”
The Dead Girl in 2A has intertwining themes of memory, family, childhood, trust, death, and regret.
Overall it was just a really good and different story.
April 18, 2019
The Dead Girl In 2A is a twisted psychological thriller. Jake and Clara meet on a plane. Jake feels that he somehow already knows Clara, but the connection is elusive. The two realize they do have some things in common. When it's time to exit the plane, Clara confides to Jake that she is going to kill herself. She disappears into the crowd. Jake knows he has to find and stop Clara. The story is told from the perspectives of both characters. It's interesting to see the reaction of each to their current situations. The plot is convoluted and bizarre, and you will be confused at times. The pieces slowly fit together about Jake and Clara's connection. Who is responsible for this manipulative situation and why? The answers are odd but so fascinating. This book is thrilling, disturbing and complex. The main characters are sympathetic and engaging with a splash of tragic. I was absolutely riveted and enjoyed this book. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2019
Whatever you think this book is about, forget it.
Statistically, there might be someone out there who will be able to guess every twist and turn. But for most of us? Oh boy, get ready for a mind fuck.
Imagine a Déjà vu so real it swallows you, threatens to pull you into its own reality, yanking you permanently from your current one.
I have no idea what to think of this. Seriously, my brain is completely baffled at the moment. I think I liked it? Maybe. It's certainly original. I can't remember reading anything remotely like it.
In fact, I don't even know what parts of the plot I could discuss. Being in the dark and getting hammered by the unexpected is part of the fun. Besides, the original synopsis is so delightfully vague, I'd be dropping megaspoilers to talk about basically any of it. Let's just say that two strangers exploring a connection when they're seated next to each other on a plane, is only the tip of the plot iceberg.
I can say that it takes bold chances. Like bravo to Carter Wilson because there's nothing safe about any of this. It teeters right on the edge of violence, and frequently dives into the murky waters surrounding destiny, history, and memory.
Honestly, I can't say that I loved The Dead Girl in 2A with the same enthusiasm that I loved Wilson's previous book Mister Tender's Girl, which was first rate book-crack. This one is harder to fall head over heels for. Creative, sure. But that same creativity makes it feel less grounded, weightless almost, and therefore harder to really connect to the characters. And in a story with buckets of possibilities and a constantly increasing pile of questions, it's easy to get reading fatigue. There were several times when I just wanted to shut my kindle for a while. I can only spend so long drowning in questions and WTFs before I need something substantial to keep me going.
I realize this is a weird review, but hey, it's a weird book. It's often baffling, sometimes entertaining, and occasionally frustrating. Fortunately, none of those were total dealbreakers for me. The Dead Girl in 2A isn't a home run in my books, but thankfully it didn't completely flop either.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Edelweiss for the drc!
Statistically, there might be someone out there who will be able to guess every twist and turn. But for most of us? Oh boy, get ready for a mind fuck.
Imagine a Déjà vu so real it swallows you, threatens to pull you into its own reality, yanking you permanently from your current one.
I have no idea what to think of this. Seriously, my brain is completely baffled at the moment. I think I liked it? Maybe. It's certainly original. I can't remember reading anything remotely like it.
In fact, I don't even know what parts of the plot I could discuss. Being in the dark and getting hammered by the unexpected is part of the fun. Besides, the original synopsis is so delightfully vague, I'd be dropping megaspoilers to talk about basically any of it. Let's just say that two strangers exploring a connection when they're seated next to each other on a plane, is only the tip of the plot iceberg.
I can say that it takes bold chances. Like bravo to Carter Wilson because there's nothing safe about any of this. It teeters right on the edge of violence, and frequently dives into the murky waters surrounding destiny, history, and memory.
Honestly, I can't say that I loved The Dead Girl in 2A with the same enthusiasm that I loved Wilson's previous book Mister Tender's Girl, which was first rate book-crack. This one is harder to fall head over heels for. Creative, sure. But that same creativity makes it feel less grounded, weightless almost, and therefore harder to really connect to the characters. And in a story with buckets of possibilities and a constantly increasing pile of questions, it's easy to get reading fatigue. There were several times when I just wanted to shut my kindle for a while. I can only spend so long drowning in questions and WTFs before I need something substantial to keep me going.
I realize this is a weird review, but hey, it's a weird book. It's often baffling, sometimes entertaining, and occasionally frustrating. Fortunately, none of those were total dealbreakers for me. The Dead Girl in 2A isn't a home run in my books, but thankfully it didn't completely flop either.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Edelweiss for the drc!
July 8, 2019
4.5 stars
The Dead Girl in 2A by Carter Wilson is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank Edelweiss, the publisher Sourcebooks, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Jake Buchanan is a ghost writer on his way to Colorado to meet a rather reclusive client who wants his memoir written, for a very lucrative sum.
Clara Stowe is on her way to Colorado as well. She plans to commit suicide there.
On the plane, Jack and Clara try to figure out how they know each other, for they are both sure that there is a connection.
The connection is real, it’s just their memories are missing. To re-connect, they are going to have to confront the people who are manipulating them, for they have been put on that plane and seated next to each other deliberately. Their past memories are about to come to the surface, and those memories will both surprise and terrify them.
My Opinions:
I loved the writing style of this author. Everything was crisp and clear.
This story is about guilt, and family, and repressed memories, and manipulation. The plot was really fresh, and the twists were quite good. I liked the depth of the characters, and their rather strange relationships.
Overall, this was a pleasant surprise.
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
June 27, 2019
I'm between 3.5 and 4 stars for this read but I'll round it upto 4.
I have not read the author's previous books so wasn't too sure what to expect. I was definitely surprised with the book. In a good way.
The story is quite unique and kept me entertained right until the end. I had no idea how the story would unfold and how it would all tie up together. The author did a great job in holding my attention with all the twists and turns and just overall with the unusual story.
I did have some issues with the length and certain explanations given but that didn't take away from me enjoying the book.
I don't want to give away too much because I went in blind and I enjoyed the book. I hope others do that too.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I have not read the author's previous books so wasn't too sure what to expect. I was definitely surprised with the book. In a good way.
The story is quite unique and kept me entertained right until the end. I had no idea how the story would unfold and how it would all tie up together. The author did a great job in holding my attention with all the twists and turns and just overall with the unusual story.
I did have some issues with the length and certain explanations given but that didn't take away from me enjoying the book.
I don't want to give away too much because I went in blind and I enjoyed the book. I hope others do that too.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2019
This is the second book I have read by this author and I thought it was even better than the first. This one was very unsettling and disturbing, which I loved. The characters were suffering from memory issues so I wasn't sure who to trust of believe! I liked where the story went and the dark feeling lasted for the entire book. I also though the ending worked well and made sense with the whole story. I would recommend this one to anyone who is looking for something that makes you question everything!
December 9, 2023
My third Carter Wilson book in as many weeks. This was my least favorite as it tread into some territory I usually don't care to go. I expected maybe a mystery or psychological thriller, so I was surprised! It was original and the less said about the plot, the better. It went in a number of unexpected directions but in the end I was glad for the outcome.
July 12, 2019
3.5⭐
The Dead Girl in 2A was completely different than what I expected, and I appreciat that. I loved Carter Wilson's Mister Tender's Girl, and I was excited to dig into this one.
I liked the story, but I was a little torn on how to rate it. It's like it had all the right pieces for a great plot, but there was no tension or suspense. I felt like I was supposed to feel something for the characters & I didn't. The framework was there for an amazing story, but I just didn't connect with it.
If you're looking for a suspense story with horror tones, this is a good one to pick up.
The Dead Girl in 2A was completely different than what I expected, and I appreciat that. I loved Carter Wilson's Mister Tender's Girl, and I was excited to dig into this one.
I liked the story, but I was a little torn on how to rate it. It's like it had all the right pieces for a great plot, but there was no tension or suspense. I felt like I was supposed to feel something for the characters & I didn't. The framework was there for an amazing story, but I just didn't connect with it.
If you're looking for a suspense story with horror tones, this is a good one to pick up.
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