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The Catalyst
Beautiful Kaitlin has recently married oil expert Paul Maverick and left her thriving life in Toronto in order to accompany him in his professional post amongst a scenic yet slower-paced life in Stavanger, Norway. As newlywed bliss subsides faster than expected, she is left with little to do at home but wait for husband to come home and feels she almost dreams into life the excitement she finds running into handsome Finn and his peculiar group of friends who work and live in the Scandinavian woods.
The thrill of keeping what she feels is an innocent secret of childish playtime -exploring nature and talking philosophy with these new people in her life- soon turns into something more wicked, as Kaitlin discovers sinister intentions behind their friendly façade, and even otherworldliness, as she ponders whether or not they're even human.
Who is the murdered young woman on TV and why is Paul so interested in her story? Who are these 'forest beings' that entice so much yet reveal so little? Was it coincidence that brought them into her life or did they seek her out? And why? What will happen when those closest to her find out about her lies to meet with them in secret? More importantly, what will Kaitlin learn about her own true character?
The thrill of keeping what she feels is an innocent secret of childish playtime -exploring nature and talking philosophy with these new people in her life- soon turns into something more wicked, as Kaitlin discovers sinister intentions behind their friendly façade, and even otherworldliness, as she ponders whether or not they're even human.
Who is the murdered young woman on TV and why is Paul so interested in her story? Who are these 'forest beings' that entice so much yet reveal so little? Was it coincidence that brought them into her life or did they seek her out? And why? What will happen when those closest to her find out about her lies to meet with them in secret? More importantly, what will Kaitlin learn about her own true character?
Hardcover
Published June 1, 2020
14 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Selin Senol-Akin
10 books19 followersSelin is a rising literary voice whose work continues to captivate readers and critics alike. With a portfolio that spans emotional poetry and richly layered fiction, she has established herself as a bold and original storyteller. Her acclaimed semi-autobiographical series, The Catalyst Trilogy, unfolds primarily in Norway (where she resided for a while) and skillfully blends supernatural 'urban romantasy' with occult/mystical mystery. The series has drawn significant attention for its nuanced exploration of identity, loneliness, friendships, biculturalism, generational trauma, and personal evolution—all told through an imaginative, genre-bending narrative.
Selin’s signature style is marked by emotional depth and sharp insight into the human condition, weaving stories around characters (who may not be entirely what they seem) and the “coincidences” that spark profound transformation. Her work doesn’t just tell a story—it invites readers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape and 'catalyze' our paths.
The Catalyst received the prestigious 2022 International Readers’ Favorite Book Award, honoring outstanding contributions from both emerging indie authors and established writers. In 2025, Selin garnered further acclaim with an International Impact Book Award for The Elemental Collection, a powerful compilation of poetry fused with non-fiction essays, short stories and a play that have all moved and inspired readers across the globe.
In addition to her literary achievements, Selin has exhibited her framed poetic-work at various art shows and galleries, performed spoken poetry at numerous open-mic events and continues to hold book signings at local bookstores, connecting with readers and poetry-lovers alike.
Selin’s signature style is marked by emotional depth and sharp insight into the human condition, weaving stories around characters (who may not be entirely what they seem) and the “coincidences” that spark profound transformation. Her work doesn’t just tell a story—it invites readers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape and 'catalyze' our paths.
The Catalyst received the prestigious 2022 International Readers’ Favorite Book Award, honoring outstanding contributions from both emerging indie authors and established writers. In 2025, Selin garnered further acclaim with an International Impact Book Award for The Elemental Collection, a powerful compilation of poetry fused with non-fiction essays, short stories and a play that have all moved and inspired readers across the globe.
In addition to her literary achievements, Selin has exhibited her framed poetic-work at various art shows and galleries, performed spoken poetry at numerous open-mic events and continues to hold book signings at local bookstores, connecting with readers and poetry-lovers alike.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
July 14, 2020
We all have people who we meet, or things that happen to us in our lives, that create a change within us. Sometimes, we see them coming from a mile away, but other times they happen unexpectedly. Whichever way they are manifested, they may catalyze us in a way that causes us to never be the same again- whether we like it or not.
Selin Senol-Akin captures this very theme with ease in her debut novel The Catalyst, published in March of 2020. Though grouping her novel into the mystery genre would be accurate, The Catalyst is a novel that blends mystery with thriller and romance as well as women’s fiction. As a new author, Selin shows that her passion- and skill- for writing is as natural as it gets in the way that she was able to mesh several categories in a way that did not distract the reader from the book’s purpose.
The novel follows Kaitlin, a sophisticated, free-spirited woman in Advertising who finds herself moving from her lifestyle in Canada to Norway with her husband Paul where she is slowly fading into a bored housewife.
But some things never change, and it is clear Kaitlin is seeking a chance to feel that free-spirited nature come alive within herself again, in a way that her home life just may not be able to give her. Then she meets Finn, a mysterious man who has intriguing opportunities for her, and from that moment- she was catalyzed.
The events that unravel from there will not be spoiled for you, as I urge you to give this new author’s novel a chance at a full read. The very first chapter throws some heavy plotlines our way that makes us wonder what type of book we have just picked up- but in a good way.
I will say, that Selin did not disappoint in being sure to throw some curveballs our way to keep the pace of the novel on point. Cliffhangers and open-interpretations galore, it is one of those stories that urges you to page-turn just to see if your suspicions are right. I am not afraid to admit, that there were quite a few things I did not see coming, but it made me enjoy my read even more.
Her character development was rather strong as well, as I found myself attached to Kaitlin’s journey on a personal level- wanting her to make the best decisions. I had strong opinions about some of the other characters as well, though I do not want to give too much away. Despite that, it all goes towards Selin’s ability to structure a story well, and with enough conviction for me to want to see it through.
My favorite aspect of the book were the minor concepts that Selin shed light on as it stands with the female perspective. Kaitlin goes through many things in her marriage, and as a woman, that not only resonated with me as a woman but also validated some of my own personal thoughts as it pertains to love, marriage, and my feminine identity. I appreciate Selin using Kaitlin as a catalyst for that in her readers, as I believe women who read this book will feel the same as me on that notion.
Selin Senol-Akin is not just a novelist, but a poet, teacher, and mother as well. I am excited to watch her writing career blossom to all the potential I know she will reach.
Selin Senol-Akin captures this very theme with ease in her debut novel The Catalyst, published in March of 2020. Though grouping her novel into the mystery genre would be accurate, The Catalyst is a novel that blends mystery with thriller and romance as well as women’s fiction. As a new author, Selin shows that her passion- and skill- for writing is as natural as it gets in the way that she was able to mesh several categories in a way that did not distract the reader from the book’s purpose.
The novel follows Kaitlin, a sophisticated, free-spirited woman in Advertising who finds herself moving from her lifestyle in Canada to Norway with her husband Paul where she is slowly fading into a bored housewife.
But some things never change, and it is clear Kaitlin is seeking a chance to feel that free-spirited nature come alive within herself again, in a way that her home life just may not be able to give her. Then she meets Finn, a mysterious man who has intriguing opportunities for her, and from that moment- she was catalyzed.
The events that unravel from there will not be spoiled for you, as I urge you to give this new author’s novel a chance at a full read. The very first chapter throws some heavy plotlines our way that makes us wonder what type of book we have just picked up- but in a good way.
I will say, that Selin did not disappoint in being sure to throw some curveballs our way to keep the pace of the novel on point. Cliffhangers and open-interpretations galore, it is one of those stories that urges you to page-turn just to see if your suspicions are right. I am not afraid to admit, that there were quite a few things I did not see coming, but it made me enjoy my read even more.
Her character development was rather strong as well, as I found myself attached to Kaitlin’s journey on a personal level- wanting her to make the best decisions. I had strong opinions about some of the other characters as well, though I do not want to give too much away. Despite that, it all goes towards Selin’s ability to structure a story well, and with enough conviction for me to want to see it through.
My favorite aspect of the book were the minor concepts that Selin shed light on as it stands with the female perspective. Kaitlin goes through many things in her marriage, and as a woman, that not only resonated with me as a woman but also validated some of my own personal thoughts as it pertains to love, marriage, and my feminine identity. I appreciate Selin using Kaitlin as a catalyst for that in her readers, as I believe women who read this book will feel the same as me on that notion.
Selin Senol-Akin is not just a novelist, but a poet, teacher, and mother as well. I am excited to watch her writing career blossom to all the potential I know she will reach.
June 11, 2020
The Catalyst is a thriller that catches your attention within the first chapters. It's mysterious and bewitching. Selin Senol-Akin gives readers an alluring and intriguing introduction that makes you want to keep reading. As the story progresses and more is revealed, this author wows with the shock factor.
The story follows Kaitlin as she travels to Norway with her new husband Paul for his new job as an oil expert. This is a different lifestyle and finds herself at home most days waiting for her husband to come home. One day changed it all. On a walk, she meets Finn and some of his friends. She gets a vibe from them knowing immediately that something is different about them. But it's probably just the culture so she puts it on the back burner.
Life as a stay-at-home wife is becoming boring for her and she wants that spark back. She and Paul bicker at the smallest things but are trying to work on it. He pushes her to make friends. She steps out of her comfort zone and becomes friends with a co-workers wife. He is happy and notices a positive change in her attitude, but she is keeping a secret. Kaitlin has been spending more time with Finn and his friends.
As I got further into the book, I realize that there is more to the story. Lies that are kept secret made it more suspenseful and mysterious. The way the author created a specific connection between the characters was brilliant. I admit that there were moments that gave me chills and made me question everyone's intentions. The supernatural aspect was good because it too added to the mystery of the story.
I give The Catalyst 4 stars. It is a chilling thriller that has an ending that you won't see coming. If you enjoy a domestic thriller with mystery and intrigue, then you should definitely give this book a read.
The story follows Kaitlin as she travels to Norway with her new husband Paul for his new job as an oil expert. This is a different lifestyle and finds herself at home most days waiting for her husband to come home. One day changed it all. On a walk, she meets Finn and some of his friends. She gets a vibe from them knowing immediately that something is different about them. But it's probably just the culture so she puts it on the back burner.
Life as a stay-at-home wife is becoming boring for her and she wants that spark back. She and Paul bicker at the smallest things but are trying to work on it. He pushes her to make friends. She steps out of her comfort zone and becomes friends with a co-workers wife. He is happy and notices a positive change in her attitude, but she is keeping a secret. Kaitlin has been spending more time with Finn and his friends.
As I got further into the book, I realize that there is more to the story. Lies that are kept secret made it more suspenseful and mysterious. The way the author created a specific connection between the characters was brilliant. I admit that there were moments that gave me chills and made me question everyone's intentions. The supernatural aspect was good because it too added to the mystery of the story.
I give The Catalyst 4 stars. It is a chilling thriller that has an ending that you won't see coming. If you enjoy a domestic thriller with mystery and intrigue, then you should definitely give this book a read.
June 15, 2020
What we find when we begin reading is the murder of a women by a love sick lover in Norway. We must tuck this in the back of our minds for later to play out. Next we meet the beautiful Kaitlin Maverick, who is a newlywed to Paul Maverick, most of her life was spent in Toronto Canada and Paul was from Montreal, as an immigrant from Budapest. But after their marriage Paul had to go back to Norway where he was working at the time, Kaitlin had to quit her job and followed. Going home from shopping one day she wanders into the woods and meets Finn a green eyed blond man and they make and arrangement to meet again and he will show her the cabin the group lives in. Kaitlin has feelings for Finn and worries about them because she's married. Next in Selin's story Kaitlin goes to a Petroleum Wives club meeting and meets Sibel, who's from Turkey and an avid gym person. After a few meeting at the gym Sibel asks why Kaitlin is so disturbed and Katlin tells her everything. Sibel tells her a few tales from Turkey and Kaitlin has the feelings that they may be true. I've only skimmed over the main items but they don't even come close to what Selin talks about you'll have to read it. Within the Group there is a man called Tan who's made Kaitlin nervous about what the
women do in the group. At the same time her husband hears about a woman they found buried in the woods and is upset, driving Kaitlin mad. I left several points that Selin has made just to tap your interest. I will say that I read the book in two days, it's interesting.
women do in the group. At the same time her husband hears about a woman they found buried in the woods and is upset, driving Kaitlin mad. I left several points that Selin has made just to tap your interest. I will say that I read the book in two days, it's interesting.
October 28, 2020
To start, I want to say thank you to the author Selin Senol Akin for sending me this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review!
You get a little bit of everything with this story!
Ultimately, this is a thriller story leaning on the edge of psychological but there’s also some romance, and a little bit of supernatural elements. Selin combined them together in a way where it didn’t seem like too much was going on and it wasn’t overwhelming. Ultimately I think it added to the suspense factor!
My attention was captured from the beginning of the book, and it’s not too long of a read so I was able to knock it out in one sitting which I also enjoyed because there’s a big shock factor and intrigue from the very beginning!
The story follows Kaitlin, who has recently moved to a new country with her new husband. When Kaitlin tires of spending most her days waiting for her husband to come home from work, she finds a handsome man named Finn and a group of people she begins to form a friendship with, but what begins as an innocent friendship turns into something much more...
The book is full of secrets and lies, there’s suspense and chilling moments, and a great characters with stories and development. You can tell that Selin put a lot of work into this book and I think a lot of people would enjoy the read!
The Catalyst can be purchased from Amazon or Books and Smith’s website! Go check it out today!!
see this review and more at www.Instagram.com/briannasbookstagram
You get a little bit of everything with this story!
Ultimately, this is a thriller story leaning on the edge of psychological but there’s also some romance, and a little bit of supernatural elements. Selin combined them together in a way where it didn’t seem like too much was going on and it wasn’t overwhelming. Ultimately I think it added to the suspense factor!
My attention was captured from the beginning of the book, and it’s not too long of a read so I was able to knock it out in one sitting which I also enjoyed because there’s a big shock factor and intrigue from the very beginning!
The story follows Kaitlin, who has recently moved to a new country with her new husband. When Kaitlin tires of spending most her days waiting for her husband to come home from work, she finds a handsome man named Finn and a group of people she begins to form a friendship with, but what begins as an innocent friendship turns into something much more...
The book is full of secrets and lies, there’s suspense and chilling moments, and a great characters with stories and development. You can tell that Selin put a lot of work into this book and I think a lot of people would enjoy the read!
The Catalyst can be purchased from Amazon or Books and Smith’s website! Go check it out today!!
see this review and more at www.Instagram.com/briannasbookstagram
May 9, 2020
Although I tried so hard to read The Catalyst slowly to cherish more, I couldn’t help it and finished it quickly. If I had to describe it in three words, which would be so difficult, I would say it is spine-tingling, awe-inspiring, and spell-binding! I am truly impressed by the curiosity that follows the reader on every single page until the very end. It both amuses and shocks you. I am hoping that the author writes a sequel to it. I can’t wait to read!
April 3, 2020
A story with compelling narrative, an interesting mixture of genres (that actually works), and a truly unexpected twist that left me jaw-dropped. I read The Catalyst in just a couple of days despite its over 200 pages. The story is just that engaging! Selin Senol-Akin is an author to be on the look out for.
April 26, 2020
I loved this book
It’s unique mystery mixed with the supernatural
Once read through the first page, could not put it down till the end.
Great first opening pages, fit for opening scenes of a movie.
Well written with highly descriptive locations and places where one can feel themselves at those places.
I highly recommend this book to those with an “open” mind
It’s unique mystery mixed with the supernatural
Once read through the first page, could not put it down till the end.
Great first opening pages, fit for opening scenes of a movie.
Well written with highly descriptive locations and places where one can feel themselves at those places.
I highly recommend this book to those with an “open” mind
April 28, 2020
Wow... I just completed this novel in like 3 days and I'm still thinking about all the characters and how surprisingly connected they all were... The opening murder scene continued to tease and pique curiosity throughout flashbacks in the novel and I couldn't put the book down until I found out who did it in the end- and the ending was so- just- wow.... I would highly recommend this one...!
May 13, 2020
This mystery is a great read. The story is intriguing and climatic, and the writing evocative and highly descriptive. The reader is drawn irresistibly deeper into the Norwegian woods as the story builds. I highly recommend it.
October 12, 2020
I loved this book! It was well written with interesting twists in the plot. Read the entire book over the weekend and was a little sad when it was finished!
February 10, 2025
To be honest, I have no idea how or why I started reading this book. It was on my kindle, and I genuinely went into it with an open mind to enjoy a new story. I didn’t even realize it was a fantasy novel until the Jinn thing came up more than halfway into the book (where I was like “oh is that a real thing? Should I google this weird Norwegian religious thing?” Before realizing it was like a made up supernatural thing.)
A lot of the dialogue felt very immature, clunky, and unnatural, which I found hard to get through. This was a slow read for me, it took more than half the book to actually get the story to go somewhere.
I strongly dislike when stories try to justify cheating- emotional or physical, by making the character’s partner out to be crappy. Even if Paul sucks, changed, isn’t what she expected, Kaitlyn is bored, in all situations (books or real life) the person should end their relationship before pursuing something else. No one, regardless of how weird or unhappy they make you, deserves to be cheated on in any way. Be respectful, end your relationship with your weird rich husband, and then you can go date creepy cute guys you meet in the woods. The bored housewife angle is overplayed. I understand the author can do whatever they want, but romanticizing cheating is gross and does not make Kaitlyn likable. Dump Paul and then you can have your weird forbidden woods romance.
- Trigger warning -
Without outright saying it or confirming, the book and epilogue strongly implied Kaitlyn *accidentally* had sex with Finn (and got pregnant). Rape is not cute. Rape is not romantic. Rape is not forbidden romance. Having sex with someone you thought was your husband is weird, but if we are supposed to be rooting for her and Finn to get together, having sex without consent and under false pretenses, makes Finn a rapist and not a Norwegian dreamboat. ALSO, the irony of him harshly judging Tan for being a murderer after raping a woman he is stalking is laughable. Sir, please get off your moral soapbox.
Overall there were a lot of issues that made this a clunky read, none of the characters are likable, and there are some really serious problems romanticizing moral failures and sexual assault.
A lot of the dialogue felt very immature, clunky, and unnatural, which I found hard to get through. This was a slow read for me, it took more than half the book to actually get the story to go somewhere.
I strongly dislike when stories try to justify cheating- emotional or physical, by making the character’s partner out to be crappy. Even if Paul sucks, changed, isn’t what she expected, Kaitlyn is bored, in all situations (books or real life) the person should end their relationship before pursuing something else. No one, regardless of how weird or unhappy they make you, deserves to be cheated on in any way. Be respectful, end your relationship with your weird rich husband, and then you can go date creepy cute guys you meet in the woods. The bored housewife angle is overplayed. I understand the author can do whatever they want, but romanticizing cheating is gross and does not make Kaitlyn likable. Dump Paul and then you can have your weird forbidden woods romance.
- Trigger warning -
Without outright saying it or confirming, the book and epilogue strongly implied Kaitlyn *accidentally* had sex with Finn (and got pregnant). Rape is not cute. Rape is not romantic. Rape is not forbidden romance. Having sex with someone you thought was your husband is weird, but if we are supposed to be rooting for her and Finn to get together, having sex without consent and under false pretenses, makes Finn a rapist and not a Norwegian dreamboat. ALSO, the irony of him harshly judging Tan for being a murderer after raping a woman he is stalking is laughable. Sir, please get off your moral soapbox.
Overall there were a lot of issues that made this a clunky read, none of the characters are likable, and there are some really serious problems romanticizing moral failures and sexual assault.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2021
First of all I am thankful for having a conversation with the author herself. This book is a proof that instapoets are wonderful and are so versatile. The characters were described at large with every possible minute details. I felt the excitement she was feeling when she encountered the French passerby and how an unknown starts to be the reason for her distractions is so well described that you won't realise that this character is mysteriously going to be the part of the novel. This is an example that can help you understand how apt the writing skills of the author are over here. Please read it, you won't regret.
March 14, 2021
Wow this is a truly captivating story leaving you in many surprises. This brilliant story is dealing with relationships marriage and supernatural creatures in a very creative way with a twist in the end. Filled up with lots of mysterious questions in my mind when I finished the catalyst. Strongly recommend it to anyone who loves reading relationship dilemma including supernatural beings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2022
Great read!
Just when I thought I had this book all figured out, a plot twist came into the mix that was so intriguing I had to keep reading! Quick and easy read, super suspenseful, great paranormal elements. Very much enjoyed it!
Just when I thought I had this book all figured out, a plot twist came into the mix that was so intriguing I had to keep reading! Quick and easy read, super suspenseful, great paranormal elements. Very much enjoyed it!
August 28, 2021
Rated—PG-13 (my personal opinion based on content)
October 30, 2021
I’ve been following Selin on social media for a while now and have had the pleasure of reading a few of her works and I’m never disappointed! She’s a fabulous writer and poet and an awesome person on top of that. I highly recommend The Catalyst to anyone craving a bit of mystery in their life!
February 17, 2022
For me, any book that is unique and captivates me in a way nothing else has before, will automatically earn five stars. With the millions of books published, finding something new is refreshing, and I commend the author for creating something unique. There were so many twists and turns. So many underlying messages. So much symbolism and things open to interpretation. This book makes you think about so much more beyond the words on the page. Highly recommend reading this author's work.
I will be keeping an eye out for the sequel.
I will be keeping an eye out for the sequel.
March 29, 2021
Amazing Must-Read
I bought this about a month ago and I could not put it down until I read it all. It is a page turner to say the least but it also has many aspects of a young woman’s life that are so relatable. The author portrays a young newlywed in foreign land surrounded by many unknowns. An unknown being, an unknown language and culture and life is uncharted territory for her.
I recommend the book to lovers of mysteries and lovers of female heroines.
I bought this about a month ago and I could not put it down until I read it all. It is a page turner to say the least but it also has many aspects of a young woman’s life that are so relatable. The author portrays a young newlywed in foreign land surrounded by many unknowns. An unknown being, an unknown language and culture and life is uncharted territory for her.
I recommend the book to lovers of mysteries and lovers of female heroines.
July 10, 2021
I LOVE this book!!! As someone who is hesitant towards socializing this book taught me a lot about people and how you effect everyone you meet. If you're questioning if you should read this book, this is your sign. You 100% should.<3
June 11, 2020
I finished it in less than one week - very very entertaining and surprising until the end !!!
June 13, 2024
A Thrilling Tale of Mystery and Self-Discovery
"The Catalyst" is a suspenseful and mysterious novel. Kaitlin Maverick, a bored housewife in Norway, seeks excitement and meets the enigmatic Finn Du Feu and his strange friends in the woods.
Her journey into their world leads to dangerous secrets and supernatural events.
A thrilling debut, this book keeps readers on edge and eager for the sequel.
"The Catalyst" is a suspenseful and mysterious novel. Kaitlin Maverick, a bored housewife in Norway, seeks excitement and meets the enigmatic Finn Du Feu and his strange friends in the woods.
Her journey into their world leads to dangerous secrets and supernatural events.
A thrilling debut, this book keeps readers on edge and eager for the sequel.
May 27, 2024
I extremely enjoyed reading The Catalyst by Selin Senol-Akin. Selin's writing style handles character development and world building with expertise. I really felt like I was inside the mind of the main character. It is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone. Looking forward to reading more of Selin's work.
September 2, 2022
An absolute page-turner! Good to the last drop :) This book was more than suspense...it was a story of relationships and philosophy. A great book! 10/10! Would recommend!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews