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The Visitor: A Post-Apocalyptic Murder Mystery
In 2024, a mystery virus ravages the entire world. 'Bat Fever' is highly contagious and a hundred per cent lethal.
A cottage tucked away in an isolated Norfolk village seems like the ideal place to sit out a catastrophic pandemic, but some residents of Hincham resent the arrival of Jack, Sarah and their friends, while others want to know too much about them.
What the villagers don't know is that beneath Sarah's cottage is a fully-stocked, luxury survival bunker. A post-apocalyptic 'des res'.
Hincham isolates itself from the rest of the country, but the deaths continue―and not from the virus. There's a killer on the loose, but is it a member of the much-depleted community, or someone from outside? As the body count rises, paranoia sets in; friend suspects friend, and everyone suspects the newcomers.
Most terrifying of all is that no one knows who's next on the list...
The Visitor is Terry Tyler's twenty-second Amazon publication, and is set in the same world as her Project Renova series, while being a completely separate, stand-alone novel.
A cottage tucked away in an isolated Norfolk village seems like the ideal place to sit out a catastrophic pandemic, but some residents of Hincham resent the arrival of Jack, Sarah and their friends, while others want to know too much about them.
What the villagers don't know is that beneath Sarah's cottage is a fully-stocked, luxury survival bunker. A post-apocalyptic 'des res'.
Hincham isolates itself from the rest of the country, but the deaths continue―and not from the virus. There's a killer on the loose, but is it a member of the much-depleted community, or someone from outside? As the body count rises, paranoia sets in; friend suspects friend, and everyone suspects the newcomers.
Most terrifying of all is that no one knows who's next on the list...
The Visitor is Terry Tyler's twenty-second Amazon publication, and is set in the same world as her Project Renova series, while being a completely separate, stand-alone novel.
445 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2020
149 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Terry Tyler
34 books583 followersI am self-published with thirty books on Amazon. Most recently I've published the first two books in my Revenge series, Served Cold and So Shall Ye Reap. More to come!
Other recent releases include Safe Zone, a dystopian/post-apocalyptic thriller. It follows on from the SFV-1 series (Infected, Darkness and Reset), but is completely stand-alone, so can be read as a story within itself.
I love watching and reading anything to do with history, post apocalypse, dystopian scenarios, anthropology, mountaineering and polar exploration. Big Walking Dead fan.
Favourite writers: Gemma Lawrence, Kate Mary, Blake Crouch, Deborah Swift, Carol Hedges, Douglas Kennedy, John Boyne, Deborah Moggach, Judith Arnopp, Jon Krakauer, Phillipa Gregory, John Privilege, Zeb Haradon, Dylan Morgan, Kate Atkinson, Norah Lofts, Dorothy Parker, Bill Bryson, PJ O'Rourke, Ann Swinfen, Keith Blackmore, Frank Tayell.
Other recent releases include Safe Zone, a dystopian/post-apocalyptic thriller. It follows on from the SFV-1 series (Infected, Darkness and Reset), but is completely stand-alone, so can be read as a story within itself.
I love watching and reading anything to do with history, post apocalypse, dystopian scenarios, anthropology, mountaineering and polar exploration. Big Walking Dead fan.
Favourite writers: Gemma Lawrence, Kate Mary, Blake Crouch, Deborah Swift, Carol Hedges, Douglas Kennedy, John Boyne, Deborah Moggach, Judith Arnopp, Jon Krakauer, Phillipa Gregory, John Privilege, Zeb Haradon, Dylan Morgan, Kate Atkinson, Norah Lofts, Dorothy Parker, Bill Bryson, PJ O'Rourke, Ann Swinfen, Keith Blackmore, Frank Tayell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 6, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
A Pandemic! What could be more topical?
The Visitor is a stark reminder of how things could spiral out of control. The opening chapters take us through the lives of four friends Jack, Sarah, Daisy, and Rexy who have been friends since their university days. A Bat Virus pandemic hits the world and some of them end up in a cottage in a Norfolk village, which had a fully stocked luxury bunker. The residents of the village are not all pleased to have Sarah and friends staying there, which causes divisions.
Jack is my favourite character, he is genuinely good guy, but my heart went to Finn. All the characters were well described and I could perfectly imagine them all, from busybody Peggy, to down to earth Garvey.
The plot reeled me in and kept me interested all the way through, plus, the ending makes me want to read more.
I went through most of my emotions whilst reading and was truly sad to hear about Finn. The suspense in this book is superb and I couldn't have guessed the outcome. The ending was a cliffhanger which, to me, makes a good book.
This is one brilliant story and I would love to read more from author Terry Tyler, well done on writing a totally captivating book. I highly recommend The Visitor.
A Pandemic! What could be more topical?
The Visitor is a stark reminder of how things could spiral out of control. The opening chapters take us through the lives of four friends Jack, Sarah, Daisy, and Rexy who have been friends since their university days. A Bat Virus pandemic hits the world and some of them end up in a cottage in a Norfolk village, which had a fully stocked luxury bunker. The residents of the village are not all pleased to have Sarah and friends staying there, which causes divisions.
Jack is my favourite character, he is genuinely good guy, but my heart went to Finn. All the characters were well described and I could perfectly imagine them all, from busybody Peggy, to down to earth Garvey.
The plot reeled me in and kept me interested all the way through, plus, the ending makes me want to read more.
I went through most of my emotions whilst reading and was truly sad to hear about Finn. The suspense in this book is superb and I couldn't have guessed the outcome. The ending was a cliffhanger which, to me, makes a good book.
This is one brilliant story and I would love to read more from author Terry Tyler, well done on writing a totally captivating book. I highly recommend The Visitor.
December 18, 2020
Years ago I was on a cross-country flight. It was before individual screens for each seat, and the in-flight movie came on. As proof of serious drug problems in the airline industry, the movie chosen was Cast Away, which begins with one of the most terrifying plane crash scenes ever filmed. At one point, the movie stopped due to turbulence and the captain came on to make a safety announcement. Then the plane crash scene continued. As I listened to my fellow passengers complain and even sob, I wondered why anyone would show a plane crash to passengers in the middle of a flight.
I wondered the same thing when I started to read Terry Tyler’s new release, The Visitor. Why would I read a post-apocalyptic thriller about a world-destroying pandemic when we’re in the middle of a pandemic? The first answer was simple: because it’s by Terry Tyler, one of the very best writers I know. She’s simply incapable of writing a bad book. The second reason is Terry is dead-on, scary accurate with her predictions. Her earlier books in the Project Renova series predate our current dance with the Coronavirus, but her fiction predicted our reality more times than I’m comfortable admitting.
The Visitor is billed as a standalone murder mystery in a post-apocalyptic world. Four friends whose lives have been inseparable since University are invited to view a house that one, Sarah, has inherited. The house comes with a state-of-the-art disaster prep bunker, fully kitted out with all the mod cons to ride out the end of the world. But when the virus hits with such devastating force that only 5% of the population is expected to survive, two of the original quartet succumb and are replaced a surviving brother and girlfriend.
The Visitor is told from several points of view, but primarily by Jack, one of the original four friends. Before the pandemic, Jack is an unsuccessful science fiction writer, whose tepid relationship with his girlfriend masks the fact that he’s basically coasting through life while waiting for the glamourous Sarah to leave her obnoxious husband for him.
In addition, there is Avalon, devastated when her lover, Rexy—one of the original four friends—is infectected and dies while she’s prevented from being with him. He tells her to go to Sarah’s survival bunker, where she soon fits in.
Finn is the younger brother of Daisy, one of the original four who is an early virus victim. Brilliant but emotionally challenged, he has foreseen and prepared for the situation with single-minded intensity that, “…makes him feel powerful” and as close to happy as he’s capable of being.
And finally, there is The Visitor, a mysterious serial killer. "I float amongst them, listening to them. They don’t have a clue. I laugh to myself. This is the best fun I have ever had." Who is it? Is it one of the newcomers, hiding in their sanctuary bunker with its stash of lifesaving luxuries? Or is it one of the villagers, seizing their chance during the chaos and death of the pandemic?
To tell the truth, the murderer’s identity seemed obvious after one character-revealing act near the beginning. But I don’t actually think that’s the point of the book. Instead, as with any good zombie apocalypse story, it’s ordinary people capable of embracing a new reality who survive. The analogy isn’t lost, as one of the characters demands, “Do you actually understand what’s happening? Have you never seen 8 Days Later? Survivors? The Walking Dead?” In those scenarios, it’s the ones who become proficient thieves and killers who have the best chance of survival.
This is reflected in the use of the acronym, TEOTWAWKI (The End Of The World As We Know It). The first use occurs when a demoralized young soldier tells villagers they can’t enter a town in search of supplies. One demands, “This is a free country, isn’t it?” The reply is, “Not any more, it’s not.” TEOTWAWKI is next used by a soldier explaining the government is gone, vaccinations were doled out with political goals, remaining survivors are on their own, and murders don’t matter in a murdered world. Then TEOTWAWKI is used as a joke, when Jack, one of the two remaining from the original four friends, wonders why anyone would bother highlighting their hair during the end of the world.
I can’t risk spoilers by discussing the final use of TEOTWAWKI, except to say that it comes as the layers that have allowed the remaining characters to live in the pre-pandemic ‘civilized’ world are peeled back. One character is forced to acknowledge all the things they never allowed themself to see, while another revels in the freedom to be all the things once forbidden to them. And one, unwilling and unable to face their own real character, returns to hiding in the bunker.
Interestingly, the personas who do emerge from this crucible are almost archetypal opposites. One clings to basic human values—"We’re living in desperate times, and old world rules don’t apply. But they still kind of do." The other embraces the freedom to stop hiding their true nature. “Now that there are no constraints, like social conventions and law, we are free to explore every aspect of the person that is us.”
And that brings me to the final reason why it was okay to watch a plane crash while I was on a flight, and to read about a serial killing spree during a world-ending pandemic. The answer is simple. We get to see how it ends. Tom Hanks copes with the crash and, emerges as a stronger, successful survivor. The pandemic murder mystery is solved, and (some) people not only survive, but—stripped of the illusions they hid behind—are now uniquely capable of facing the new world.
The Visitor is a brilliantly written, disturbing, entertaining study of character development at the end of the world. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Now, may I please have that vaccination?
I wondered the same thing when I started to read Terry Tyler’s new release, The Visitor. Why would I read a post-apocalyptic thriller about a world-destroying pandemic when we’re in the middle of a pandemic? The first answer was simple: because it’s by Terry Tyler, one of the very best writers I know. She’s simply incapable of writing a bad book. The second reason is Terry is dead-on, scary accurate with her predictions. Her earlier books in the Project Renova series predate our current dance with the Coronavirus, but her fiction predicted our reality more times than I’m comfortable admitting.
The Visitor is billed as a standalone murder mystery in a post-apocalyptic world. Four friends whose lives have been inseparable since University are invited to view a house that one, Sarah, has inherited. The house comes with a state-of-the-art disaster prep bunker, fully kitted out with all the mod cons to ride out the end of the world. But when the virus hits with such devastating force that only 5% of the population is expected to survive, two of the original quartet succumb and are replaced a surviving brother and girlfriend.
The Visitor is told from several points of view, but primarily by Jack, one of the original four friends. Before the pandemic, Jack is an unsuccessful science fiction writer, whose tepid relationship with his girlfriend masks the fact that he’s basically coasting through life while waiting for the glamourous Sarah to leave her obnoxious husband for him.
In addition, there is Avalon, devastated when her lover, Rexy—one of the original four friends—is infectected and dies while she’s prevented from being with him. He tells her to go to Sarah’s survival bunker, where she soon fits in.
Finn is the younger brother of Daisy, one of the original four who is an early virus victim. Brilliant but emotionally challenged, he has foreseen and prepared for the situation with single-minded intensity that, “…makes him feel powerful” and as close to happy as he’s capable of being.
And finally, there is The Visitor, a mysterious serial killer. "I float amongst them, listening to them. They don’t have a clue. I laugh to myself. This is the best fun I have ever had." Who is it? Is it one of the newcomers, hiding in their sanctuary bunker with its stash of lifesaving luxuries? Or is it one of the villagers, seizing their chance during the chaos and death of the pandemic?
To tell the truth, the murderer’s identity seemed obvious after one character-revealing act near the beginning. But I don’t actually think that’s the point of the book. Instead, as with any good zombie apocalypse story, it’s ordinary people capable of embracing a new reality who survive. The analogy isn’t lost, as one of the characters demands, “Do you actually understand what’s happening? Have you never seen 8 Days Later? Survivors? The Walking Dead?” In those scenarios, it’s the ones who become proficient thieves and killers who have the best chance of survival.
This is reflected in the use of the acronym, TEOTWAWKI (The End Of The World As We Know It). The first use occurs when a demoralized young soldier tells villagers they can’t enter a town in search of supplies. One demands, “This is a free country, isn’t it?” The reply is, “Not any more, it’s not.” TEOTWAWKI is next used by a soldier explaining the government is gone, vaccinations were doled out with political goals, remaining survivors are on their own, and murders don’t matter in a murdered world. Then TEOTWAWKI is used as a joke, when Jack, one of the two remaining from the original four friends, wonders why anyone would bother highlighting their hair during the end of the world.
I can’t risk spoilers by discussing the final use of TEOTWAWKI, except to say that it comes as the layers that have allowed the remaining characters to live in the pre-pandemic ‘civilized’ world are peeled back. One character is forced to acknowledge all the things they never allowed themself to see, while another revels in the freedom to be all the things once forbidden to them. And one, unwilling and unable to face their own real character, returns to hiding in the bunker.
Interestingly, the personas who do emerge from this crucible are almost archetypal opposites. One clings to basic human values—"We’re living in desperate times, and old world rules don’t apply. But they still kind of do." The other embraces the freedom to stop hiding their true nature. “Now that there are no constraints, like social conventions and law, we are free to explore every aspect of the person that is us.”
And that brings me to the final reason why it was okay to watch a plane crash while I was on a flight, and to read about a serial killing spree during a world-ending pandemic. The answer is simple. We get to see how it ends. Tom Hanks copes with the crash and, emerges as a stronger, successful survivor. The pandemic murder mystery is solved, and (some) people not only survive, but—stripped of the illusions they hid behind—are now uniquely capable of facing the new world.
The Visitor is a brilliantly written, disturbing, entertaining study of character development at the end of the world. I can’t recommend it highly enough. Now, may I please have that vaccination?
November 24, 2020
The year is 2024, four years after the coronavirus pandemic, when the world is hit with a far deadlier virus. There was no way back from this one, it was fatal. If you caught it you died, unless you were one of the lucky ones who were vaccinated. At least in 2020 people still had their home comforts and there was a good recovery rate. This was a whole different ball game, bringing death and destruction on a massive scale. For those who survived, life was a struggle fraught with danger.
Before the world as they knew it ended, four university friends who have kept in touch over the years—Jack, Sarah, Daisy and Rexy—had been to check out a cottage left to Sarah by her uncle, in the village of Hincham. They were surprised to find Sarah’s uncle had built a fully stocked bunker under the cottage, convinced disaster would strike again. When it did, only two of the original four made it to the cottage, along with two others who were connected to their friends.
The villagers weren’t happy to see newcomers arrive in their small community, just in case they had brought the virus with them. Eventually things settled down when it became obvious none of them had, or carried, the virus and the friends slowly integrated into village life. Until the first murder.
The Visitor has a multi layered, character driven plot, with the threat of the virus ever present, along with the newer horror and panic at the thought of a murderer being in the village. The sense of isolation added to the unease. People looked at each other, wondering and suspicious.
I enjoyed the way The Visitor’s thoughts head several of the chapters, without any indication as to who it might be, giving an indication of impending evil. Misleading clues scattered about sent me in every possible direction. I laid the blame on most of the characters at one time or another before the unexpected reveal.
The main protagonists—Jack, Sarah, Avalon and Finn—are intriguing and well defined. The story unfolds from several perspectives, giving an ever deepening awareness of each one. Jack’s morality and inner voice made him the most likeable. There are shocks, surprises, things I didn’t see coming at all. Perfectly paced with a great ending which made me wonder if there would be a follow up. I loved the combination of dystopia and murder mystery. The Visitor is an absolute winner.
Before the world as they knew it ended, four university friends who have kept in touch over the years—Jack, Sarah, Daisy and Rexy—had been to check out a cottage left to Sarah by her uncle, in the village of Hincham. They were surprised to find Sarah’s uncle had built a fully stocked bunker under the cottage, convinced disaster would strike again. When it did, only two of the original four made it to the cottage, along with two others who were connected to their friends.
The villagers weren’t happy to see newcomers arrive in their small community, just in case they had brought the virus with them. Eventually things settled down when it became obvious none of them had, or carried, the virus and the friends slowly integrated into village life. Until the first murder.
The Visitor has a multi layered, character driven plot, with the threat of the virus ever present, along with the newer horror and panic at the thought of a murderer being in the village. The sense of isolation added to the unease. People looked at each other, wondering and suspicious.
I enjoyed the way The Visitor’s thoughts head several of the chapters, without any indication as to who it might be, giving an indication of impending evil. Misleading clues scattered about sent me in every possible direction. I laid the blame on most of the characters at one time or another before the unexpected reveal.
The main protagonists—Jack, Sarah, Avalon and Finn—are intriguing and well defined. The story unfolds from several perspectives, giving an ever deepening awareness of each one. Jack’s morality and inner voice made him the most likeable. There are shocks, surprises, things I didn’t see coming at all. Perfectly paced with a great ending which made me wonder if there would be a follow up. I loved the combination of dystopia and murder mystery. The Visitor is an absolute winner.
November 13, 2020
A post-apocalyptic murder mystery describes this cross genre book perfectly, with greater emphasis on the murder mystery. Yet, without the background on the post-apocalyptic world, this story would not be as strong as it is. The isolation of the village and its people, the lack of any outside authoritative representation, the fear of the murders vying with the deadly virus, are all layered through every setting of this novel.
In every review I have written of Terry Tyler’s work I have admired her ability to create strong characters. I love character-driven plots. The Visitor is no exception. The chapters are written from various points of view. And in each the character becomes more multi-layered, more rounded, more complex.
Which, undoubtedly, the author intends, because this is indeed, a murder mystery, There are a lot of subtle and not so subtle red herrings. And I’m afraid I fell for every one; all the way through I was convinced the murderer was this character or another – or another.
I was particular struck by the sections written from the protagonist’s, Jack, point of view.The internal dialogue is excellent, showing an insight both of his character and that of the other characters. Whilst I was reading, I was trying to think what it was that I liked so much, and I came to the conclusion that it was as though I was actually listening to him, evaluating his impressions of his friends and fellow villages. So that by reading the chapters from their viewpoints – and then his – the story becomes more complex, much as it does when trying to work out a situation in ‘real’ life.
And a word for the sections written from the Visitor’s point of view ( I almost said written by the visitor!) Quite sinister. And not giving anything away!
All in all another brilliant book from this author: the plot runs seamlessly and at an even pace, the story held my interest throughout, the settings and background of a world struggling to survive after a virus attack are there, and necessary, but are not the main theme (I say this to any reader who may be hesitant to try The Visitor because it is post-apocalyptic), and the writing style of Terry Tyler is, as always, admirable.
I have no problem in recommending The Visitor to any reader who enjoys a good murder mystery.
In every review I have written of Terry Tyler’s work I have admired her ability to create strong characters. I love character-driven plots. The Visitor is no exception. The chapters are written from various points of view. And in each the character becomes more multi-layered, more rounded, more complex.
Which, undoubtedly, the author intends, because this is indeed, a murder mystery, There are a lot of subtle and not so subtle red herrings. And I’m afraid I fell for every one; all the way through I was convinced the murderer was this character or another – or another.
I was particular struck by the sections written from the protagonist’s, Jack, point of view.The internal dialogue is excellent, showing an insight both of his character and that of the other characters. Whilst I was reading, I was trying to think what it was that I liked so much, and I came to the conclusion that it was as though I was actually listening to him, evaluating his impressions of his friends and fellow villages. So that by reading the chapters from their viewpoints – and then his – the story becomes more complex, much as it does when trying to work out a situation in ‘real’ life.
And a word for the sections written from the Visitor’s point of view ( I almost said written by the visitor!) Quite sinister. And not giving anything away!
All in all another brilliant book from this author: the plot runs seamlessly and at an even pace, the story held my interest throughout, the settings and background of a world struggling to survive after a virus attack are there, and necessary, but are not the main theme (I say this to any reader who may be hesitant to try The Visitor because it is post-apocalyptic), and the writing style of Terry Tyler is, as always, admirable.
I have no problem in recommending The Visitor to any reader who enjoys a good murder mystery.
November 15, 2020
Four years after Covid-19 there is a far worse pandemic. “Bat fever” kills so many people that soon there is civil disorder. Tipping Point, the original book in the Project Renova series was written by Terry Tyler over 3 years ago. The Visitor is set in this version of 2024 England, but you can easily read it as a stand-alone.
Jack looks back fondly to his college days when he shared a house with three other students. The four have kept in touch and now as their everyday lives fall apart, perhaps they can reunite in a safe house. Sarah has inherited her uncle’s house in a Norfolk village which has a hidden bunker filled with supplies. When Jack’s girlfriend dies of the virus, he sets out to join Sarah. Sadly their other two friends, Daisy and Rexy have also died but they are replaced by Avalon, Rexy’s girlfriend and Daisy’s rather strange brother, Finn.
Many of the villagers are understandably unwelcoming but gradually they participate in village meetings and dangerous forays to obtain supplies. But there is a major problem when several people are murdered. The newcomers are suspected but perhaps it was raiders from outside the village or even old enmities. We are able to get inside the heads of the four house sharers, who soon become close yet have different outlooks on how to appease the villagers. The thoughts of the murderer are also revealed though the identity remains a mystery.
There are clues and red herrings and almost everyone in the village could be the murderer or the next victim. The main characters gradually come to terms with this new world and we are part of their evolving beliefs and attitudes. The murder mystery including causation is intriguing and how society deals with crime when there are no police or officials raises interesting questions of morality and responsibility. A thought-provoking enjoyable read.
Jack looks back fondly to his college days when he shared a house with three other students. The four have kept in touch and now as their everyday lives fall apart, perhaps they can reunite in a safe house. Sarah has inherited her uncle’s house in a Norfolk village which has a hidden bunker filled with supplies. When Jack’s girlfriend dies of the virus, he sets out to join Sarah. Sadly their other two friends, Daisy and Rexy have also died but they are replaced by Avalon, Rexy’s girlfriend and Daisy’s rather strange brother, Finn.
Many of the villagers are understandably unwelcoming but gradually they participate in village meetings and dangerous forays to obtain supplies. But there is a major problem when several people are murdered. The newcomers are suspected but perhaps it was raiders from outside the village or even old enmities. We are able to get inside the heads of the four house sharers, who soon become close yet have different outlooks on how to appease the villagers. The thoughts of the murderer are also revealed though the identity remains a mystery.
There are clues and red herrings and almost everyone in the village could be the murderer or the next victim. The main characters gradually come to terms with this new world and we are part of their evolving beliefs and attitudes. The murder mystery including causation is intriguing and how society deals with crime when there are no police or officials raises interesting questions of morality and responsibility. A thought-provoking enjoyable read.
November 23, 2020
The story is set in a dystopian future after the onset of 'bat flu', a pandemic that causes widespread death. As society begins to break down people head away from the cities and out to the countryside, looking for a safer place to stay. The quiet village of Hincham seems ideal. and soon four refugees arrive in search of a place to call home. There's also the distinct advantage that Sarah's Uncle Jerry built a bunker there, a properly prepped hideout for just such an eventuality.
Avalon, Sarah, Jack, Finn are thrown together by circumstances and must learn to live with each other.
Sarah and Jack had a 'thing' in the past. Finn doesn't think like other people and is hard to get to know. Avalon is a wild child, scathing of authority. Each of them has a past and buried secrets.
So its not long before the rural idyll turns into a hell. First of all, the villagers are hostile to strangers who they think might be carrying the virus. Having a fully stocked bunker when others are struggling is hard to conceal. Things don't get any easier as one of the locals is stabbed, and as more deaths pile up, it becomes clear there's a murderer in their midst. And it could even be someone in their bunker. But who is it?
Tempers rise and suspicions grow. Even if they find out who it is, who will administer justice in a society where there are no police, and government has broken down?
The Visitor of the title makes an appearance at the beginning of the chapters and its very cleverly written so you don't know which person is harbouring the murderous 'Visitor' beneath their outward persona.
I'm a great fan of Terry Tyler's books and this is another cracker of a read. It kept me guessing right to the end. The pacing is just right, with a slow and sinister start that builds to a racing climax. There's an epilogue that leaves it open for another book, and I do hope there'll be one. Thoroughly enjoyed this and want more.
Avalon, Sarah, Jack, Finn are thrown together by circumstances and must learn to live with each other.
Sarah and Jack had a 'thing' in the past. Finn doesn't think like other people and is hard to get to know. Avalon is a wild child, scathing of authority. Each of them has a past and buried secrets.
So its not long before the rural idyll turns into a hell. First of all, the villagers are hostile to strangers who they think might be carrying the virus. Having a fully stocked bunker when others are struggling is hard to conceal. Things don't get any easier as one of the locals is stabbed, and as more deaths pile up, it becomes clear there's a murderer in their midst. And it could even be someone in their bunker. But who is it?
Tempers rise and suspicions grow. Even if they find out who it is, who will administer justice in a society where there are no police, and government has broken down?
The Visitor of the title makes an appearance at the beginning of the chapters and its very cleverly written so you don't know which person is harbouring the murderous 'Visitor' beneath their outward persona.
I'm a great fan of Terry Tyler's books and this is another cracker of a read. It kept me guessing right to the end. The pacing is just right, with a slow and sinister start that builds to a racing climax. There's an epilogue that leaves it open for another book, and I do hope there'll be one. Thoroughly enjoyed this and want more.
November 25, 2020
What a great read! The dystopian setting made the murder, or rather multiple murder, mystery all the more creepy since there was no telling whodunnit and no help to ask for from authorities like police etc. I was kept guessing until the end and I got the killer wrong, which I love in murder mysteries. I always feel a little flat if I actually get it right!
Ms Tyler's dystopian world evolves in this book, showing the horrors within horrors, not only in the world of the future where all has fallen apart, but within relationships which fall apart as the new world shines light on who people really are, no longer able to hide behind their social media fronts and party-person personas. And lastly, what the changing of the world, grief and rage can release from within each person; courage, heroism, cowardice, or a killer with a fragmented personality; as fragmented as the world, too, has become. I felt that the killer was the embodiment of the dystopian world of Ms Tyler; a broken yet complete creature, hostile, deceptive, seductive and deeply dangerous.
Highly recommended, especially for a creepy winter read!
Ms Tyler's dystopian world evolves in this book, showing the horrors within horrors, not only in the world of the future where all has fallen apart, but within relationships which fall apart as the new world shines light on who people really are, no longer able to hide behind their social media fronts and party-person personas. And lastly, what the changing of the world, grief and rage can release from within each person; courage, heroism, cowardice, or a killer with a fragmented personality; as fragmented as the world, too, has become. I felt that the killer was the embodiment of the dystopian world of Ms Tyler; a broken yet complete creature, hostile, deceptive, seductive and deeply dangerous.
Highly recommended, especially for a creepy winter read!
December 5, 2020
I am familiar with the world that Terry Tyler has created following the virus of 2024 which has decimated the UK population, and have enjoyed all the books in the series and the spinoffs.
Although the the world is therefore not unknown, there is an added twist to the sense of fear and foreboding that is felt by the survivors in this book. It is not just the ‘Bat Fever’ they have to be afraid of. Taking advantage of the situation is a serial killer, remorseless and without mercy, working their way through a small community desperately trying to survive the pandemic.
The author offers up a number of perspectives from the lead characters about their daily lives in this close knit community, and also the occasional word from the killer who is hiding in plain sight. Already suspicious of their neighbours, theories are rife, and secrets are discovered that might offer up motives for the deaths fracturing the trust between them. Normal emotions become distorted including love and friendship, and as one by one the killings continue, the fear becomes as contagious as the virus. The villagers are facing danger on all fronts, from foraging for essential supplies in violence ridden towns, to the terror on their own doorstep.
As always Terry Tyler serves up excellent characters and provides a flowing narrative in this post ‘bat fever’ thriller, set in a time so close to our own pandemic and unnervingly close to home. It is hard not to draw parallels and edge towards a ‘prepper’ mentality, but I certainly will be checking my doors and windows are locked before I go to bed at night.
Recommended for those who enjoy a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Although the the world is therefore not unknown, there is an added twist to the sense of fear and foreboding that is felt by the survivors in this book. It is not just the ‘Bat Fever’ they have to be afraid of. Taking advantage of the situation is a serial killer, remorseless and without mercy, working their way through a small community desperately trying to survive the pandemic.
The author offers up a number of perspectives from the lead characters about their daily lives in this close knit community, and also the occasional word from the killer who is hiding in plain sight. Already suspicious of their neighbours, theories are rife, and secrets are discovered that might offer up motives for the deaths fracturing the trust between them. Normal emotions become distorted including love and friendship, and as one by one the killings continue, the fear becomes as contagious as the virus. The villagers are facing danger on all fronts, from foraging for essential supplies in violence ridden towns, to the terror on their own doorstep.
As always Terry Tyler serves up excellent characters and provides a flowing narrative in this post ‘bat fever’ thriller, set in a time so close to our own pandemic and unnervingly close to home. It is hard not to draw parallels and edge towards a ‘prepper’ mentality, but I certainly will be checking my doors and windows are locked before I go to bed at night.
Recommended for those who enjoy a thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
December 31, 2020
This latest book by Terry Tyler is a rollicking good read and a compelling look at how a serial killer in their midst can unravel the trust built up in a small community already in crisis. I think the concept would have succeeded just as well in a different crisis setting, and for myself I would have preferred that as I think after this pandemic year, I'm all done with post-apocalyptic stories. In fact, it took me a while before I could face reading it. However, the more I read, the more I appreciated that the post deadly pandemic background made it understandable why people would react the way they did to the series of murders taking place in their village. Once I got into the book and past the setup of the situation, I thoroughly enjoyed Terry Tyler's development of the story and her characters, as always, are those that push the plot along. The sense of the community's helplessness in the aftermath of the murders was incredibly powerful and made me realise how terrifying it would be to have to face such a situation. This book is very well written, and I'd recommend it for all lovers of good mysteries and especially those who enjoy post-apocalyptic books.
December 19, 2021
There are several things you know you’re going to get when you read one of Terry Tyler’s books: a terrific story, interesting well-rounded characters and great writing. The Visitor is no exception.
It is particularly interesting to read her books now, while living through a pandemic, because they touch on things that we can recognise, even if they are not taken to the extremes they would be in a post-apocalyptic world. Global travel, pubs and restaurants, for example. Once taken for granted.
There were once four friends – Sarah, Jack, Rexy and Daisy. Sarah had inherited a cottage in the Norfolk village of Hincham from her Uncle Jerry. But it was more than just a cottage, it was a survival bunker. How exciting! Little do the group realise just how soon it will be needed.
When the pandemic strikes, as it surely does, the lucky few make their way to this safe haven and a new way of life. Treated with suspicion by the long-time residents of Hincham that suspicion is only increased when the first of the born-and-breds is murdered. And it is not the last killing.
Tyler does a great job of hiding who the murderer is and the reader is left suspecting first one character then the other as the story progresses. I thoroughly enjoyed how it all unfolded and the fallout among the various relationships. Highly recommended to all who enjoy a great story.
It is particularly interesting to read her books now, while living through a pandemic, because they touch on things that we can recognise, even if they are not taken to the extremes they would be in a post-apocalyptic world. Global travel, pubs and restaurants, for example. Once taken for granted.
There were once four friends – Sarah, Jack, Rexy and Daisy. Sarah had inherited a cottage in the Norfolk village of Hincham from her Uncle Jerry. But it was more than just a cottage, it was a survival bunker. How exciting! Little do the group realise just how soon it will be needed.
When the pandemic strikes, as it surely does, the lucky few make their way to this safe haven and a new way of life. Treated with suspicion by the long-time residents of Hincham that suspicion is only increased when the first of the born-and-breds is murdered. And it is not the last killing.
Tyler does a great job of hiding who the murderer is and the reader is left suspecting first one character then the other as the story progresses. I thoroughly enjoyed how it all unfolded and the fallout among the various relationships. Highly recommended to all who enjoy a great story.
March 5, 2022
It cannot be said that Terry Tyler’s latest dystopian murder mystery ‘The Visitor’ is in any way predictable – on the contrary!
The year 2024 sees the rise of a lethal virus and a pandemic sweeping the country at an alarming rate. What is worse; those infected are destined to die within days. Sound grim? It is! And if the prospect of that scenario isn’t enough to raise your blood pressure, imagine a serial killer on the loose in the village where you’d taken refuge.
It was the murder/mystery that tempted me to read ‘The Visitor’ as I’m not a fan of the dystopian genre – plus the fact that I love Ms Tyler’s writing and have yet to be disappointed with any of her work.
The plot has been well covered; suffice to say it’s a clever one. The reader is kept guessing throughout, the narrative voice of The Visitor giving no clue as to his or her identity and hiking up the intrigue.
The breakdown of law and order has enabled the author to dispense with forensics, an integral part of stories within the crime genre; a clever touch and one that makes catching the killer at large all the more difficult. The fear is palpable as the death toll rises and the close-knit community start to suspect each other.
One minor irritation I felt could have maybe been handled a little better was that there were too many names to contend with amongst the remaining villagers and I had to keep looking back to remind myself of who was who. Other than this, the story gelled and it became less confusing as the numbers diminished.
All in all a satisfying read. Great characterisation – Ms Tyler’s hallmark – in this suspenseful, well-written murder mystery that I’m happy to recommend. 4 and a half stars.
The year 2024 sees the rise of a lethal virus and a pandemic sweeping the country at an alarming rate. What is worse; those infected are destined to die within days. Sound grim? It is! And if the prospect of that scenario isn’t enough to raise your blood pressure, imagine a serial killer on the loose in the village where you’d taken refuge.
It was the murder/mystery that tempted me to read ‘The Visitor’ as I’m not a fan of the dystopian genre – plus the fact that I love Ms Tyler’s writing and have yet to be disappointed with any of her work.
The plot has been well covered; suffice to say it’s a clever one. The reader is kept guessing throughout, the narrative voice of The Visitor giving no clue as to his or her identity and hiking up the intrigue.
The breakdown of law and order has enabled the author to dispense with forensics, an integral part of stories within the crime genre; a clever touch and one that makes catching the killer at large all the more difficult. The fear is palpable as the death toll rises and the close-knit community start to suspect each other.
One minor irritation I felt could have maybe been handled a little better was that there were too many names to contend with amongst the remaining villagers and I had to keep looking back to remind myself of who was who. Other than this, the story gelled and it became less confusing as the numbers diminished.
All in all a satisfying read. Great characterisation – Ms Tyler’s hallmark – in this suspenseful, well-written murder mystery that I’m happy to recommend. 4 and a half stars.
November 27, 2020
Terry Tyler has been mining a rich seam of post-apocalyptic ideas in recent months, producing a seemingly inexhaustible supply of frighteningly prescient books set in a plausible, nightmarish Britain.
After successive trilogies spanning sixty years following the bat flu pandemic, The Visitor places us back in the era of Tipping Point, her introductory book charting the initial spread of the virus and the experiences of a group of survivors struggling to cope with the inexorable slide into post-civilisation.
This is not only a retelling of that singularly chilling story from a new viewpoint but also develops into a solid whodunnit, told from different viewpoints by characters so sharply drawn you could cut your fingers while turning the pages. Nice guy Jack, train wreck Sarah, feisty Avalon and diffident savant Finn are thrown together in a secret bunker belonging to Sarah's prepper uncle, uneasily sharing their space with the suspicious survivors in a tight-knit Norfolk village. The tensions are exacerbated by the discovery of the first murder, and the uneasy community must try to find common ground while exercising healthy suspicions to protect themselves against more than just hunger, cold and the competition for dwindling resources.
This is another great book by Terry Tyler. The quality of the writing, the well-constructed storytelling, the snappy and realistic dialogue...everything works in this excellent book. Thoroughly entertaining while keeping you guessing all the way, this is an easy 5 stars from me!
After successive trilogies spanning sixty years following the bat flu pandemic, The Visitor places us back in the era of Tipping Point, her introductory book charting the initial spread of the virus and the experiences of a group of survivors struggling to cope with the inexorable slide into post-civilisation.
This is not only a retelling of that singularly chilling story from a new viewpoint but also develops into a solid whodunnit, told from different viewpoints by characters so sharply drawn you could cut your fingers while turning the pages. Nice guy Jack, train wreck Sarah, feisty Avalon and diffident savant Finn are thrown together in a secret bunker belonging to Sarah's prepper uncle, uneasily sharing their space with the suspicious survivors in a tight-knit Norfolk village. The tensions are exacerbated by the discovery of the first murder, and the uneasy community must try to find common ground while exercising healthy suspicions to protect themselves against more than just hunger, cold and the competition for dwindling resources.
This is another great book by Terry Tyler. The quality of the writing, the well-constructed storytelling, the snappy and realistic dialogue...everything works in this excellent book. Thoroughly entertaining while keeping you guessing all the way, this is an easy 5 stars from me!
August 20, 2022
An expert mash-up of two genre’s.
I love a good murder mystery and took a punt on this unusual setting, post-apocalypse. I’m so glad I did.
The story begins pre-apocalypse, introducing us to a gang of four friends, so close that they have their own in jokes that annoy and keep out even their partners. The apocalypse strikes and we follow its unstoppable wrecking path, including on the four friends. The survivors head for a Norfolk village and the home of one of the four, inherited from a prepper uncle, and his well-stocked secret bunker. There they slowly become accepted by the remaining residents - and then the murders begin.
There is so much I enjoyed about this book. First and foremost, it is a really well-written murder mystery. Perfectly paced, hints without giving away much, and a good number of viable suspects right up to the end. I was nervous when the perpetrator pov started as I find these rarely done well. Here though it was handled just right - for me anyway.
Secondly, though I’m no great fan of the apocolypse genre (A Girl With All the Gifts duology aside) I liked the sparse detail and unadorned descriptions. How covid was brought in, with lessons learned and also not, was really clever.
Lastly, but so very importantly, the characters, even though they conformed to type, were well rounded and believable.
My thanks to the author - I really enjoyed this book.
I love a good murder mystery and took a punt on this unusual setting, post-apocalypse. I’m so glad I did.
The story begins pre-apocalypse, introducing us to a gang of four friends, so close that they have their own in jokes that annoy and keep out even their partners. The apocalypse strikes and we follow its unstoppable wrecking path, including on the four friends. The survivors head for a Norfolk village and the home of one of the four, inherited from a prepper uncle, and his well-stocked secret bunker. There they slowly become accepted by the remaining residents - and then the murders begin.
There is so much I enjoyed about this book. First and foremost, it is a really well-written murder mystery. Perfectly paced, hints without giving away much, and a good number of viable suspects right up to the end. I was nervous when the perpetrator pov started as I find these rarely done well. Here though it was handled just right - for me anyway.
Secondly, though I’m no great fan of the apocolypse genre (A Girl With All the Gifts duology aside) I liked the sparse detail and unadorned descriptions. How covid was brought in, with lessons learned and also not, was really clever.
Lastly, but so very importantly, the characters, even though they conformed to type, were well rounded and believable.
My thanks to the author - I really enjoyed this book.
December 26, 2020
I realise reading about a deadly virus during a global pandemic might not be everyone’s cup of tea but it certainly gives perspective. The 2024 virus in The Visitor has basically said to Covid-19, “Hold my beer”, which is as good a reason as any to read on. I mean did any of us believe a year ago that we’d be in the position we are today? Of course not! So, with that in mind – and knowing there’s a vaccine on its way – I’m putting dystopian fiction back in the bottle.
Let’s set the scene: it’s 2024 and life after Covid-19 has returned to some degree of normality since 2020, but the term ‘pandemic’ returns to the world’s vocabulary when a new virus strikes, and this time it’s much more deadly. This time, the virus kills everyone who gets it; there’s no recovery. People die in droves and the authorities cannot cope. Bodies are bagged up and left in the streets for disposal, hospitals are attacked by vaccine-hunters, and the army is on the streets to reinforce some sort of order. But for how long?
There are four initial main characters: Jack, Sarah, Rexy & Daisy, friends since their university days when they shared a house. Still in touch, they reunite to visit the house in Hincham left to Sarah by her Uncle Jerry. On finding its hidden bunker with stocks and supplies of everything imaginable, they joke about meeting up again should there ever be another pandemic. Words that come back to haunt them.
However, each has moved on in life, so when the virus hits, they are not all able to flee for the safety of the bunker. In fact, two of them do not survive, but instead their loved ones turn up at the house in their place. I really enjoyed this part of the story, seeing their individual stories develop before they make their way to the village of Hincham.
Not everyone is pleased to see them, and it takes a while for them to be accepted by the villagers. So, it comes as no surprise that when a villager is found murdered, fingers are immediately pointed at the new arrivals.
They need to prove their worth if they are to avoid further criticism, and keep their secret bunker secret. The four characters have very differing views on how to respond to the villagers’ accusations – from sharing out their stocks to appease them, to not giving a damn about what is said about them. The story is told through their different viewpoints, interspersed with chapters by The Visitor, so the readers get unfettered access to their innermost thoughts. But, don’t even think that the identity of The Visitor is going to be revealed through these thoughts, because …well, it’s a mystery, and such a thing ain’t gonna happen. (Don’t ask me why I went all American-movie there, it just felt right 😉 – maybe it’s a prediction that this should be dramatised)
More deaths occur, the vitriol towards them ebbs and flows, but the anti-newcomer vibe is strong for a long time despite them doing their level best to integrate and be helpful. Just when you think there’s a pattern that could lead to revealing the killer, The Visitor mixes things up again. When even the army turn them down after they ask for help to find the killer, there seems to be little anyone can do except to hope the killer has moved on – which, of course, is pie in the sky.
However, as time goes on, it transpires someone is close to the truth. The killer’s time in the village is short lived and fleeing is the only option. For me, this is where the story began to drag a little as the killer’s story is told, and the reason for each of the murders is explained. I appreciate the reader needed to understand how The Visitor came to be, but it did feel a tad drawn out to me (it’s a long book). However, it’s worth hanging on in there, because someone is out to find the killer and make The Visitor face those back in Hincham. Unfortunately, the killer is still ahead of the game and the final twist is sublime, and leaves the door open for a sequel.
As a murder-mystery, this book is a very satisfying read. At times, I felt convinced I knew who the killer was, then there’d be a sharp twist that threw my suspicions off course. The post-apocalyptic setting is both fascinating and terrifying especially given the current climate. Multi-layered characters with complex personalities make you believe one thing and then another: it’s a complete roller-coaster ride to the big reveal, only to be topped by such a perfectly devious ending.
Highly recommended to readers who enjoy a thought-provoking murder-mystery. I received an ebook copy via Reads & Reels to read in exchange for an honest review.
Let’s set the scene: it’s 2024 and life after Covid-19 has returned to some degree of normality since 2020, but the term ‘pandemic’ returns to the world’s vocabulary when a new virus strikes, and this time it’s much more deadly. This time, the virus kills everyone who gets it; there’s no recovery. People die in droves and the authorities cannot cope. Bodies are bagged up and left in the streets for disposal, hospitals are attacked by vaccine-hunters, and the army is on the streets to reinforce some sort of order. But for how long?
There are four initial main characters: Jack, Sarah, Rexy & Daisy, friends since their university days when they shared a house. Still in touch, they reunite to visit the house in Hincham left to Sarah by her Uncle Jerry. On finding its hidden bunker with stocks and supplies of everything imaginable, they joke about meeting up again should there ever be another pandemic. Words that come back to haunt them.
However, each has moved on in life, so when the virus hits, they are not all able to flee for the safety of the bunker. In fact, two of them do not survive, but instead their loved ones turn up at the house in their place. I really enjoyed this part of the story, seeing their individual stories develop before they make their way to the village of Hincham.
Not everyone is pleased to see them, and it takes a while for them to be accepted by the villagers. So, it comes as no surprise that when a villager is found murdered, fingers are immediately pointed at the new arrivals.
They need to prove their worth if they are to avoid further criticism, and keep their secret bunker secret. The four characters have very differing views on how to respond to the villagers’ accusations – from sharing out their stocks to appease them, to not giving a damn about what is said about them. The story is told through their different viewpoints, interspersed with chapters by The Visitor, so the readers get unfettered access to their innermost thoughts. But, don’t even think that the identity of The Visitor is going to be revealed through these thoughts, because …well, it’s a mystery, and such a thing ain’t gonna happen. (Don’t ask me why I went all American-movie there, it just felt right 😉 – maybe it’s a prediction that this should be dramatised)
More deaths occur, the vitriol towards them ebbs and flows, but the anti-newcomer vibe is strong for a long time despite them doing their level best to integrate and be helpful. Just when you think there’s a pattern that could lead to revealing the killer, The Visitor mixes things up again. When even the army turn them down after they ask for help to find the killer, there seems to be little anyone can do except to hope the killer has moved on – which, of course, is pie in the sky.
However, as time goes on, it transpires someone is close to the truth. The killer’s time in the village is short lived and fleeing is the only option. For me, this is where the story began to drag a little as the killer’s story is told, and the reason for each of the murders is explained. I appreciate the reader needed to understand how The Visitor came to be, but it did feel a tad drawn out to me (it’s a long book). However, it’s worth hanging on in there, because someone is out to find the killer and make The Visitor face those back in Hincham. Unfortunately, the killer is still ahead of the game and the final twist is sublime, and leaves the door open for a sequel.
As a murder-mystery, this book is a very satisfying read. At times, I felt convinced I knew who the killer was, then there’d be a sharp twist that threw my suspicions off course. The post-apocalyptic setting is both fascinating and terrifying especially given the current climate. Multi-layered characters with complex personalities make you believe one thing and then another: it’s a complete roller-coaster ride to the big reveal, only to be topped by such a perfectly devious ending.
Highly recommended to readers who enjoy a thought-provoking murder-mystery. I received an ebook copy via Reads & Reels to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2021
Sarah has no idea what will take place when she inherits her uncle’s cottage in Hincham. She invites her friends Jack, Rexy, and Daisy to join her and they discover beneath the cottage a fully stocked survival bunker. Little does Sarah and her friends realize how much they’ll need the bunker to survive not only the ‘bat fever’ pandemic of 2024 but a killer too. Known only as ‘the visitor’, this killer is slowly murdering people in the village. Who is it and will they catch the killer before the pandemic of 2024 destroys them all?
The Visitor is, hands down, one of the best murder mysteries I’ve ever read. To have a killer on the loose in a small village is horrifying enough but to have it take place when the world is being ravaged by a pandemic? Pure brilliance. Terry Tyler is known for her gripping thrillers and this one ranks as her finest book to date. The plot moves at a steady pace with suspenseful twists and turns I didn’t see coming. The ending’s twist gave me shivers. The characters, though, are what make The Visitor shine. As the story unfolds, we get the chance to see past each character’s façade and determine who is ‘the visitor’ aka the killer. I found myself connecting with several of the characters. It gutted me when two of them died. I hope Terry Tyler doesn’t mind the comparison but The Visitor has the same eerie survival vibe as does Lord of the Flies. If you’re a murder mystery reader, you’ll love The Visitor. If you’re a post-apocalyptic reader, you need to read The Visitor. An absolute must-read for any reader in 2021. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
The Visitor is, hands down, one of the best murder mysteries I’ve ever read. To have a killer on the loose in a small village is horrifying enough but to have it take place when the world is being ravaged by a pandemic? Pure brilliance. Terry Tyler is known for her gripping thrillers and this one ranks as her finest book to date. The plot moves at a steady pace with suspenseful twists and turns I didn’t see coming. The ending’s twist gave me shivers. The characters, though, are what make The Visitor shine. As the story unfolds, we get the chance to see past each character’s façade and determine who is ‘the visitor’ aka the killer. I found myself connecting with several of the characters. It gutted me when two of them died. I hope Terry Tyler doesn’t mind the comparison but The Visitor has the same eerie survival vibe as does Lord of the Flies. If you’re a murder mystery reader, you’ll love The Visitor. If you’re a post-apocalyptic reader, you need to read The Visitor. An absolute must-read for any reader in 2021. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 14, 2021
First off, although this story in based in the ‘Project Renova’ time of previous books by the author you can safely read this book as a standalone novel. The story centres around the outbreak of the bat flu and a small village in Norfolk which contains people who have lived there all their lives and two groups who have arrived because of the outbreak. As with previous novels by the author The Visitor is written as a collection of journal entries by various characters which I really enjoy as it gives insight to their feelings at the time of the bat flu outbreak and then their suspicions as the people of the village start to be murdered. The first part deals with the outbreak and how it grips the nation and certainly grips the reader. The author, Terry Tyler, has also cleverly added in the fears around the current COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the country and how this affects people’s decisions when a new virus hits. When all characters have been integrated into the storyline we are then hit with a new thread to the story as we discover that one of the people living in the village is a murderer and gradually one by one the villagers are ‘deleted’. How many people will die before the murderer is unmasked or will the bat flu destroy the village first? I have been a great fan of Terry Tyler’s books for a while now and cannot recommend them highly enough - this is just another great read and I cannot wait until her next book is released.
January 4, 2021
Review:
I am a fan of Terry Tyler, so when I had the opportunity to read The Visitor, I didn’t think twice. Of course, this is a post-apocalyptic novel that I decided to read in the middle of a global pandemic, which was an interesting thrill ride! Maybe I just like scaring myself, but I loved this book.
The Visitor is a standalone, murder mystery, set in a post-apocalyptic world. Terry Tyler is an incredible writer. She has this ability to draw the reader in as part of the story. It was so easy for me to visualize what was happening.
I love the multi points of views. Each character brings in a different view point. I love how different each character was and how relatable and realistic they were. It is part of what makes The Visitor feel so plausible.
I loved this book so much. I highly recommend going to get yourself a copy. Ominous, creepy, and entertaining, The Visitor is another hit by Terry Tyler!
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
I am a fan of Terry Tyler, so when I had the opportunity to read The Visitor, I didn’t think twice. Of course, this is a post-apocalyptic novel that I decided to read in the middle of a global pandemic, which was an interesting thrill ride! Maybe I just like scaring myself, but I loved this book.
The Visitor is a standalone, murder mystery, set in a post-apocalyptic world. Terry Tyler is an incredible writer. She has this ability to draw the reader in as part of the story. It was so easy for me to visualize what was happening.
I love the multi points of views. Each character brings in a different view point. I love how different each character was and how relatable and realistic they were. It is part of what makes The Visitor feel so plausible.
I loved this book so much. I highly recommend going to get yourself a copy. Ominous, creepy, and entertaining, The Visitor is another hit by Terry Tyler!
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
March 3, 2021
It's COVID-24, only this time everyone who gets it dies, with about 95% of the population dying. Jack, Sarah, Finn and Avalon have a well-stocked bunker to bide their time in, but then the killings start! It definitely added a layer of intensity to the story. The folks from the small village try to CSI things, but without any type of police/government, their pretty much screwed.
I didn't guess who the killer was, few people seemed to have alibis, and people were just as worried about gathering supplies/trying to survive.
It gave me a chuckle at the beginning-it definitely wasn't set in America. One of the characters is repeatedly told by soldiers to turn around or they'd be shot. If it was America, they'd have had their head blown off before the question was finished!
I didn't guess who the killer was, few people seemed to have alibis, and people were just as worried about gathering supplies/trying to survive.
It gave me a chuckle at the beginning-it definitely wasn't set in America. One of the characters is repeatedly told by soldiers to turn around or they'd be shot. If it was America, they'd have had their head blown off before the question was finished!
November 22, 2020
A truly compelling read, surreal, scary & enthralling, yet another great book from Terry Tyler.
February 9, 2021
I received an early ARC copy of this novel, which I freely chose to review.
I have read and reviewed a number of novels written by Terry Tyler, both in her Project Renova Series (I have to catch up with a volume of short stories, but otherwise, I think I’ve read all of them), and also in her Operation Galton series (I’m eagerly waiting for the next one). I am aware she writes in other genres, and I’m sure I’ll get to read some of her other works too, but, for some reason, I seem to be drawn towards her dystopian novels (perhaps these feel like particularly dystopic times, one way or another). She is a great writer and manages to combine gripping plots, a credible and varied cast of characters (very recognisable), and an immersive fictional world, which closely resembles or reminds us of our daily lives, especially for those who live or know the UK fairly well.
As the book’s description and the author’s note at the beginning explain, although the novel is set in the Project Renova world, it is a thriller/murder mystery, and it is not necessary to have read any of the books of the series to enjoy it or follow the action. That doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it if you have read the whole series or some of it, rather, you’ll hit the ground running, as you’ll have much more background information than the characters do. Not that it well help you discover who the murderer is, but… That would kill all the fun, wouldn’t it?
This being a Terry Tyler’s book I wasn’t expecting a standard crime novel, and yes, although lovers of the genre and those who are fans of mysteries will still find plenty of red herrings, assorted clues, twists and turns, and plenty of potential suspects (at least to begin with), things are a bit more complicated than usual. This is not a frantically paced story, where we hardly have time to breathe. Of course, there are hints of things to come from the very beginning, but there is a slow build-up and the early part of the book is dedicated to providing a solid background to the story, explaining how the virus started and took hold, while at the same time introducing us to the four friends who seem destined to be the main characters in the story. Of course, things don’t go according to plan, and although a group of four meets up in the village of Hincham to take advantage of the foresight of Sarah’s uncle in building a fully stocked (and secret) bunker, there are some changes.
The idea of setting the thriller in a small village isolated due to a pandemic is very clever. It turns on its head the convention (of subgenre) of a mystery set in an old house or an isolated island (or a ship, like one I read recently), because apart from the limited cast of characters and the lack of resources to investigate, in this case there is limited to no hope that there will ever be any meaningful help coming from outside (or it is dispelled very soon). And the paranoia, accusations, and blaming of outsiders are further enhanced by the lack of information, loss of contact with the outside, and the quick loss of modern life comforts and resources (no electricity, no running water, no police, no telephone, no local services at all…). While the characters have many other things to worry about, the fact that what should be one of their strengths (being a small community where everybody knows everybody else) seems to have become a weakness and mistrust is rampant, makes the situation much harder. There’s nowhere to hide and nobody will come to the rescue.
Tyler creates a very credible and recognisable village in Hincham, and most readers will feel familiar with the setting and the characters, which are quite recognisable and realistic. As always, the author shows her strength in her development of the characters, especially the four sharing Sarah’s cottage, and although we don’t get to know that much about some of the villagers or the other strangers, there is enough there to create clear a picture in our mind. The visitor of the title is somewhat different, but I won’t go into any detail about it, as I want to avoid spoilers. For the same reason, I don’t want to talk about the characters too much, but let me say that although I didn’t like most of them (I confess I wasn’t particularly fond of Jack, who is the main narrator. There is nothing wrong with him per se; it’s probably me being me), that didn’t impact my enjoyment of the novel. I liked Finn and Avalon in particular, and I liked what I saw of a couple of the villagers, but we don’t get to know them well enough to make a full judgement of them. Oh, and yes, I’ll freely admit to really liking the baddy. (I won’t get into detail or analyse what possible pathology there might be or why the Visitor behaves that way, as this is not a psychopathology textbook and does not intend to be). So there.
The story is told from a variety of characters’ points of view and in different narrative voices. I’ve mentioned that Jack is the main narrator, and he tells his story in the first person, but he is not the only one. Several other characters tell parts of the story in the first-person from their own perspective (the Visitor as well): some are important characters, and some quite incidental, which offers readers a slightly less claustrophobic or one-sided view. (There is no head hopping or confusion possible, as each chapter is clearly labelled with the name of the character or characters whose perspective we read). There are also some chapters in the third-person, some depicting the scenes of the murders, but not all. And there is the odd comment hinting at an omniscient point of view (or perhaps something slightly different, but I’ll keep my peace). Otherwise, the story is narrated chronologically, and other than some instances of sharing/narrating past events and the mandatory reveals towards the end (secrets there are aplenty, and people who have kept information hidden also), the story flows well, with no major detours. I mentioned the build-up at the beginning, and the pace does increase as people are killed and others leave, but it never becomes frantic. There is plenty of time for readers to make conjectures and scratch their heads, pondering the clues.
There are plenty of references to pop culture, TV series, music, fashion, UK everyday life, social media, writing (Jack is a writer) that help flesh out the era and the place, and lovers of all things British will appreciate. There are some dialogue gems and some dark humour (very sharp and dry, which I really enjoyed), and the writing is, as I’ve come to expect from this author, flawless. (No, I won’t share any quotes because it’s difficult not to slip up and give something away).
The one thing I found a bit jarring was the issue of COVID-19. Because the original Project Renova series was written well before it appeared, there is no mention of it in the other books (and yes, I kept thinking about the series as the illness developed and became a pandemic). Here it is mentioned often, mostly by people who think the “bat fever” will be the same, and they talk about just isolating for a few days, make jokes about hoarding toilet paper, etc. Although at first I liked the connection to reality, I soon found it difficult to read, and it also kept stretching my suspension of disbelief, as the characters talked and acted as if COVID-19 had only lasted a few months and had been a minor inconvenience that was over in no time at all. Perhaps that was how things looked like after the first wave, but unfortunately, that was only the beginning. The touch of realism is broken by what has happened since, and imagining that people will be so blasé about it only three or four years down the line —the story is set in 2024, and yes, I know about COVID-19 deniers, and that attitude is well reflected in the novel— didn’t quite work for me. I guess it’s difficult to know what to do when reality becomes truly stranger than fiction and catches up with our fictional stories in ways we didn’t expect, but I would much rather had assumed Project Renova took place in an alternate reality where COVID-19 hadn’t happened. I don’t know if the author intends to make changes to some of the other titles in the series, although I hope not. But it’s her story.
Did I guess who the guilty party was? It’s difficult to talk about it without giving anything away, but let’s say I had my suspicions, and I guessed some of the other secrets that are revealed at the end, although not all. I’ve already said I truly liked the baddy, and don’t worry, although there is the possibility of further stories for some of the characters, there is no big cliff-hanger. When it comes to warnings to readers… I think the main one is the fact that there are references to COVID-19, and I know I’m not the only one who still finds reading about the topic quite difficult. This is not a blood and gore story, but there is violence (even if not described in excessive detail or graphically and although it is not the most important aspect of the story), of course, so people who prefer cozy or gentle mysteries should stay away.
I recommend this book to fans of Terry Tyler’s books, to people looking for thrillers with a difference (especially those who enjoy an interesting setting and realistic characters), and to anybody who appreciates a claustrophobic backdrop with dark undertones, doesn’t mind a touch of the unexpected, and loves all things British.
I have read and reviewed a number of novels written by Terry Tyler, both in her Project Renova Series (I have to catch up with a volume of short stories, but otherwise, I think I’ve read all of them), and also in her Operation Galton series (I’m eagerly waiting for the next one). I am aware she writes in other genres, and I’m sure I’ll get to read some of her other works too, but, for some reason, I seem to be drawn towards her dystopian novels (perhaps these feel like particularly dystopic times, one way or another). She is a great writer and manages to combine gripping plots, a credible and varied cast of characters (very recognisable), and an immersive fictional world, which closely resembles or reminds us of our daily lives, especially for those who live or know the UK fairly well.
As the book’s description and the author’s note at the beginning explain, although the novel is set in the Project Renova world, it is a thriller/murder mystery, and it is not necessary to have read any of the books of the series to enjoy it or follow the action. That doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it if you have read the whole series or some of it, rather, you’ll hit the ground running, as you’ll have much more background information than the characters do. Not that it well help you discover who the murderer is, but… That would kill all the fun, wouldn’t it?
This being a Terry Tyler’s book I wasn’t expecting a standard crime novel, and yes, although lovers of the genre and those who are fans of mysteries will still find plenty of red herrings, assorted clues, twists and turns, and plenty of potential suspects (at least to begin with), things are a bit more complicated than usual. This is not a frantically paced story, where we hardly have time to breathe. Of course, there are hints of things to come from the very beginning, but there is a slow build-up and the early part of the book is dedicated to providing a solid background to the story, explaining how the virus started and took hold, while at the same time introducing us to the four friends who seem destined to be the main characters in the story. Of course, things don’t go according to plan, and although a group of four meets up in the village of Hincham to take advantage of the foresight of Sarah’s uncle in building a fully stocked (and secret) bunker, there are some changes.
The idea of setting the thriller in a small village isolated due to a pandemic is very clever. It turns on its head the convention (of subgenre) of a mystery set in an old house or an isolated island (or a ship, like one I read recently), because apart from the limited cast of characters and the lack of resources to investigate, in this case there is limited to no hope that there will ever be any meaningful help coming from outside (or it is dispelled very soon). And the paranoia, accusations, and blaming of outsiders are further enhanced by the lack of information, loss of contact with the outside, and the quick loss of modern life comforts and resources (no electricity, no running water, no police, no telephone, no local services at all…). While the characters have many other things to worry about, the fact that what should be one of their strengths (being a small community where everybody knows everybody else) seems to have become a weakness and mistrust is rampant, makes the situation much harder. There’s nowhere to hide and nobody will come to the rescue.
Tyler creates a very credible and recognisable village in Hincham, and most readers will feel familiar with the setting and the characters, which are quite recognisable and realistic. As always, the author shows her strength in her development of the characters, especially the four sharing Sarah’s cottage, and although we don’t get to know that much about some of the villagers or the other strangers, there is enough there to create clear a picture in our mind. The visitor of the title is somewhat different, but I won’t go into any detail about it, as I want to avoid spoilers. For the same reason, I don’t want to talk about the characters too much, but let me say that although I didn’t like most of them (I confess I wasn’t particularly fond of Jack, who is the main narrator. There is nothing wrong with him per se; it’s probably me being me), that didn’t impact my enjoyment of the novel. I liked Finn and Avalon in particular, and I liked what I saw of a couple of the villagers, but we don’t get to know them well enough to make a full judgement of them. Oh, and yes, I’ll freely admit to really liking the baddy. (I won’t get into detail or analyse what possible pathology there might be or why the Visitor behaves that way, as this is not a psychopathology textbook and does not intend to be). So there.
The story is told from a variety of characters’ points of view and in different narrative voices. I’ve mentioned that Jack is the main narrator, and he tells his story in the first person, but he is not the only one. Several other characters tell parts of the story in the first-person from their own perspective (the Visitor as well): some are important characters, and some quite incidental, which offers readers a slightly less claustrophobic or one-sided view. (There is no head hopping or confusion possible, as each chapter is clearly labelled with the name of the character or characters whose perspective we read). There are also some chapters in the third-person, some depicting the scenes of the murders, but not all. And there is the odd comment hinting at an omniscient point of view (or perhaps something slightly different, but I’ll keep my peace). Otherwise, the story is narrated chronologically, and other than some instances of sharing/narrating past events and the mandatory reveals towards the end (secrets there are aplenty, and people who have kept information hidden also), the story flows well, with no major detours. I mentioned the build-up at the beginning, and the pace does increase as people are killed and others leave, but it never becomes frantic. There is plenty of time for readers to make conjectures and scratch their heads, pondering the clues.
There are plenty of references to pop culture, TV series, music, fashion, UK everyday life, social media, writing (Jack is a writer) that help flesh out the era and the place, and lovers of all things British will appreciate. There are some dialogue gems and some dark humour (very sharp and dry, which I really enjoyed), and the writing is, as I’ve come to expect from this author, flawless. (No, I won’t share any quotes because it’s difficult not to slip up and give something away).
The one thing I found a bit jarring was the issue of COVID-19. Because the original Project Renova series was written well before it appeared, there is no mention of it in the other books (and yes, I kept thinking about the series as the illness developed and became a pandemic). Here it is mentioned often, mostly by people who think the “bat fever” will be the same, and they talk about just isolating for a few days, make jokes about hoarding toilet paper, etc. Although at first I liked the connection to reality, I soon found it difficult to read, and it also kept stretching my suspension of disbelief, as the characters talked and acted as if COVID-19 had only lasted a few months and had been a minor inconvenience that was over in no time at all. Perhaps that was how things looked like after the first wave, but unfortunately, that was only the beginning. The touch of realism is broken by what has happened since, and imagining that people will be so blasé about it only three or four years down the line —the story is set in 2024, and yes, I know about COVID-19 deniers, and that attitude is well reflected in the novel— didn’t quite work for me. I guess it’s difficult to know what to do when reality becomes truly stranger than fiction and catches up with our fictional stories in ways we didn’t expect, but I would much rather had assumed Project Renova took place in an alternate reality where COVID-19 hadn’t happened. I don’t know if the author intends to make changes to some of the other titles in the series, although I hope not. But it’s her story.
Did I guess who the guilty party was? It’s difficult to talk about it without giving anything away, but let’s say I had my suspicions, and I guessed some of the other secrets that are revealed at the end, although not all. I’ve already said I truly liked the baddy, and don’t worry, although there is the possibility of further stories for some of the characters, there is no big cliff-hanger. When it comes to warnings to readers… I think the main one is the fact that there are references to COVID-19, and I know I’m not the only one who still finds reading about the topic quite difficult. This is not a blood and gore story, but there is violence (even if not described in excessive detail or graphically and although it is not the most important aspect of the story), of course, so people who prefer cozy or gentle mysteries should stay away.
I recommend this book to fans of Terry Tyler’s books, to people looking for thrillers with a difference (especially those who enjoy an interesting setting and realistic characters), and to anybody who appreciates a claustrophobic backdrop with dark undertones, doesn’t mind a touch of the unexpected, and loves all things British.
December 6, 2020
I was sent a Kindle version of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.
‘The Visitor’ is a post-apocalyptic murder mystery set in 2024 against a backdrop of a bat-flu pandemic. This lethal pandemic was first introduced in ‘Tipping Point’ the first novel by this author in her ‘Project Renova’ series. I haven’t read that series yet, but ‘The Visitor’ works well as a stand-alone story, since the whole bat-flu epidemic is outlined in the opening chapters.
Before I began reading ‘The Visitor’ I was concerned that the background situation, with people dying left right and centre might be tough to read with our current COVID-19 pandemic in full swing. However, this pandemic carries a death sentence for all who become infected, and it is not long before society as we know it has completely collapsed. It therefore makes COVID-19 seem like a walk in the park in comparison and is far enough removed from our own pandemic to make it a compelling read.
I love a good character driven story and these characters are all realistic and easily believable. I feel like they are people I’ve known in real life at one time or another. This realism makes it easier to become invested in their stories and to become emotionally involved. I found it tear-jerking when some of what at first seemed to be main characters started to succumb to the virus.
The point of view switches between a number of different people including that of the murderer, who we come to know as The Visitor, whose tone is at times chilling:
“Even when I was a child, I knew I had a dark side. Sometimes it thrilled me, my wicked secret, but at other times it made me scared of what I could do. I subdued it, but I was keeping caged a resourceful beast who would, eventually, learn to pick the lock. After the world went to hell, when we began to act according to our own instincts, judgement and needs, rather than the redundant rules of a disintegrated society, 'it' became 'he', and broke free.”
I was unable to guess who the murderer was, I kept thinking I knew, only to be intriguingly presented with something suspicious about one of the other characters which led me off in another direction. It’s a very difficult book to put down, as you want to keep following the clues to see if your assumptions were correct.
I found it interesting to see how quickly all societal norms disappeared as part of this hellish post-apocalyptic landscape. Yet apart from a few, the people of the secluded Norfolk village of Hincham were desperately hanging on to the hope that normal service would be resumed:
"In other words," said the good old doctor, "this is your new normal. But we don't need
to talk about spring planting yet. We're all still reeling from this latest tragedy―"
The book is left open-ended and it would be interesting to revisit the few survivors after a while to see how they are getting on with their ‘new normal’.
I highly recommend this book; it was very compelling and intriguing - fans of both murder mysteries and post apocalyptic fiction should equally enjoy it.
‘The Visitor’ is a post-apocalyptic murder mystery set in 2024 against a backdrop of a bat-flu pandemic. This lethal pandemic was first introduced in ‘Tipping Point’ the first novel by this author in her ‘Project Renova’ series. I haven’t read that series yet, but ‘The Visitor’ works well as a stand-alone story, since the whole bat-flu epidemic is outlined in the opening chapters.
Before I began reading ‘The Visitor’ I was concerned that the background situation, with people dying left right and centre might be tough to read with our current COVID-19 pandemic in full swing. However, this pandemic carries a death sentence for all who become infected, and it is not long before society as we know it has completely collapsed. It therefore makes COVID-19 seem like a walk in the park in comparison and is far enough removed from our own pandemic to make it a compelling read.
I love a good character driven story and these characters are all realistic and easily believable. I feel like they are people I’ve known in real life at one time or another. This realism makes it easier to become invested in their stories and to become emotionally involved. I found it tear-jerking when some of what at first seemed to be main characters started to succumb to the virus.
The point of view switches between a number of different people including that of the murderer, who we come to know as The Visitor, whose tone is at times chilling:
“Even when I was a child, I knew I had a dark side. Sometimes it thrilled me, my wicked secret, but at other times it made me scared of what I could do. I subdued it, but I was keeping caged a resourceful beast who would, eventually, learn to pick the lock. After the world went to hell, when we began to act according to our own instincts, judgement and needs, rather than the redundant rules of a disintegrated society, 'it' became 'he', and broke free.”
I was unable to guess who the murderer was, I kept thinking I knew, only to be intriguingly presented with something suspicious about one of the other characters which led me off in another direction. It’s a very difficult book to put down, as you want to keep following the clues to see if your assumptions were correct.
I found it interesting to see how quickly all societal norms disappeared as part of this hellish post-apocalyptic landscape. Yet apart from a few, the people of the secluded Norfolk village of Hincham were desperately hanging on to the hope that normal service would be resumed:
"In other words," said the good old doctor, "this is your new normal. But we don't need
to talk about spring planting yet. We're all still reeling from this latest tragedy―"
The book is left open-ended and it would be interesting to revisit the few survivors after a while to see how they are getting on with their ‘new normal’.
I highly recommend this book; it was very compelling and intriguing - fans of both murder mysteries and post apocalyptic fiction should equally enjoy it.
September 28, 2021
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Firstly, I should state that my wife and I are friends of the author.
Many of us at some point in our lives feel we "have a book in us" but when we waved off Terry as she relocated from Shipden - sorry, Cromer - to her new life in the North I don't think any of us really appreciated what was to come. Twenty two books later, and counting! I've bought and read pretty much all of them, initially just out of curiosity to encourage a friend in her new rôle as an author, but then because I enjoyed them and wanted more.
The other reviews of The Visitor on here will fill you in on the storyline and plot (or, better still, just read the book). When I read her Tipping Point in 2017 the thing that I found a little hard was to suspend my belief in the unlikely likelihood of a catastrophic global pandemic - but the author's imagination was way ahead of mine, and of the times too. Now, four years later in 2021, accepting in The Visitor a pandemic reoccurring in 2024 for which we are totally unprepared is sadly much easier to envisage; a virus which kills people within 48 hours, with bodies wrapped in bin bags and left outside houses for collection. Layer on to that the fact that people dying all around you is fertile ground for opportunities if you are a serial killer - and you have The Visitor.
The book is written from the different viewpoints of the main characters, a device with which I'm not always comfortable but this is not an issue here as the author inhabits her characters with a distinct individuality that never confuses. The characters are believable, and the author has a talent for writing conversations which eludes some authors. Her humour comes through too, and as a whodunnit its success for me was that I approched the final stages of the book without having any idea of The Visitor's identity.
Terry Tyler has gone from strength to strength as an author and it has been fascinating to observe her progress, and her growing confidence in her abilities shines through on the page in The Visitor. If you're already a fan, you'll have read this book by now, but if you haven't then I highly recommend that you do.
And if you then get the Terry Tyler bug, don't stop at her novels. Her output is prodigious, so sign up for her blog posts where she reviews and comments on whatever takes her fancy, and chat along to her on twitter where she has over 90,000 followers.
You'll enjoy the ride.
May 25, 2024
This story is set in the same world as the author’s Project Renova series which I’ve read (I’m still bitter about the fate of my favorite character), but this is a standalone novel requiring no prior knowledge of that series.
Jack, Sarah, Daisy, and Rexy have been friends for years. When the lethal and highly contagious bat fever ravages the world, the cottage with a fully stocked bunker Sarah inherits from a prepper uncle seems like the perfect place to wait out the pandemic. It’s located in a small village, a good thing with less chance of infection, but some of its citizens welcome Jack, Sarah, and their friends’ presence, and others threaten them. It’s not long before the murders begin, and suspicious glances are cast on them and another group of newcomers.
As the virus ravages this world and society gradually breaks down, disturbing memories of the coronavirus may resurface for some readers. If you can hang in there, a compelling murder mystery awaits you. Full confession – I guessed the identity of the killer immediately after the first murder because of a previous action by that character earlier in the book. But there was more to it. After reading several of her other books, I should have know this author would toss in an additional twist.
The characters are all well-crafted and distinct, and their dissimilar personalities create interesting dynamics as they transition to a new reality. I’d say Jack and Finn are my favorite characters: Jack for his morality, and Finn with his unflinching honesty and logic. Some of his comments are hard truths, but he’s able to set aside emotions and make sound decisions. The story is told primarily from Jack, Sarah, Finn, and Avalon’s POVs, but The Visitor also has several intriguing chapters that delve into that character’s thought processes and actions. As a fan of the The Walking Dead and 28 Days Later, I enjoyed the mention of that series and movie and laughed out loud at the Negan reference.
The epilogue is brilliant and sets the stage for a sequel if the author chooses to continue the story (and I hope she does). Recommended for readers who enjoy a character-driven plot, a post-apocalyptic setting, and multi-layered whodunnits.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jack, Sarah, Daisy, and Rexy have been friends for years. When the lethal and highly contagious bat fever ravages the world, the cottage with a fully stocked bunker Sarah inherits from a prepper uncle seems like the perfect place to wait out the pandemic. It’s located in a small village, a good thing with less chance of infection, but some of its citizens welcome Jack, Sarah, and their friends’ presence, and others threaten them. It’s not long before the murders begin, and suspicious glances are cast on them and another group of newcomers.
As the virus ravages this world and society gradually breaks down, disturbing memories of the coronavirus may resurface for some readers. If you can hang in there, a compelling murder mystery awaits you. Full confession – I guessed the identity of the killer immediately after the first murder because of a previous action by that character earlier in the book. But there was more to it. After reading several of her other books, I should have know this author would toss in an additional twist.
The characters are all well-crafted and distinct, and their dissimilar personalities create interesting dynamics as they transition to a new reality. I’d say Jack and Finn are my favorite characters: Jack for his morality, and Finn with his unflinching honesty and logic. Some of his comments are hard truths, but he’s able to set aside emotions and make sound decisions. The story is told primarily from Jack, Sarah, Finn, and Avalon’s POVs, but The Visitor also has several intriguing chapters that delve into that character’s thought processes and actions. As a fan of the The Walking Dead and 28 Days Later, I enjoyed the mention of that series and movie and laughed out loud at the Negan reference.
The epilogue is brilliant and sets the stage for a sequel if the author chooses to continue the story (and I hope she does). Recommended for readers who enjoy a character-driven plot, a post-apocalyptic setting, and multi-layered whodunnits.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 23, 2023
I’m a big fan of Terry Tyler’s writing and I can say that her Project Renova series, written about a pandemic before Covid 19 struck, is one of the best I’ve ever read.
The Visitor is along similar lines to Project Renova. A deadly strain of bat fever is circulating, only a few people have been vaccinated and the statistics indicate that anyone catching it won’t survive.
Into this mix come four connected people, one of whom has inherited a house with a full-on bunker for surviving an apocalypse. This house is in a quiet village and the cunning owner masked the building of the bunker with other renovations. The presence of this retreat has to be kept secret from the villagers as it is only designed to cope with four people.
As the pandemic takes hold, panic, fear and suspicion run rife and law and order disintegrates until it’s up to the villagers themselves to manage things. Include in this mix The Visitor of the title and you have the terrifying added dimension of a serial killer.
The book is told from several different points of view and the creepy prologue is told by the visitor. It was unsettling being in the mind of this person and seeing things through their calculating perspective, and this contact grows with the book until you are almost a co-conspirator, becoming privy to the choices of who will be murdered next and why.
My love of the Project Renova series worked a little against this book as there is so much inevitable overlap in the human responses to a pandemic in both of them. Also, I struggled at first with all the many characters and their different relationships. Having said that, I still loved this book and I have others by the author waiting for me in my Kindle and I’m looking forward to reading them.
This is a really good read and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
The Visitor is along similar lines to Project Renova. A deadly strain of bat fever is circulating, only a few people have been vaccinated and the statistics indicate that anyone catching it won’t survive.
Into this mix come four connected people, one of whom has inherited a house with a full-on bunker for surviving an apocalypse. This house is in a quiet village and the cunning owner masked the building of the bunker with other renovations. The presence of this retreat has to be kept secret from the villagers as it is only designed to cope with four people.
As the pandemic takes hold, panic, fear and suspicion run rife and law and order disintegrates until it’s up to the villagers themselves to manage things. Include in this mix The Visitor of the title and you have the terrifying added dimension of a serial killer.
The book is told from several different points of view and the creepy prologue is told by the visitor. It was unsettling being in the mind of this person and seeing things through their calculating perspective, and this contact grows with the book until you are almost a co-conspirator, becoming privy to the choices of who will be murdered next and why.
My love of the Project Renova series worked a little against this book as there is so much inevitable overlap in the human responses to a pandemic in both of them. Also, I struggled at first with all the many characters and their different relationships. Having said that, I still loved this book and I have others by the author waiting for me in my Kindle and I’m looking forward to reading them.
This is a really good read and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
January 30, 2021
Four lifelong friends plan to see out bat fever in a secret bunker but will they all survive long enough to get there? And once there, a murderer is on the loose in the village...
Amidst the coronavirius pandemic, this book is scary! Set in the same reality as the Project Renova books, The Visitor is a stand alone novel set in 2024. Coronavirus has been and gone, the world recovered. But the new disease is much more deadly and every case is fatal. The politics of the original books are still there with the vaccine programme (again, scary given the current situation!)
The Visitor is written from Jack and Avalon's first person perspectives as well as various other third person viewpoints. This allows us to understand and feel their emotions as their loved ones die and they adjust to life in the village. The Visitor also has their own first person chapters so we anticipate their next move...
The murder mystery is a fascinating plot device which stands this book apart from the other Project Renova books. The fear and suspicion adds an extra element to the plot and provides extra character development. It engages the reader as we try to figure out who the mysterious Visitor could be and deduce their motive.
Terry Tyler is such a clever writer as she plays to our fears and makes her characters and situations very realistic. She has used the current coronavirus pandemic to underscore her plot and it supports our understanding of the events, motives and actions of each character we encounter.
The Visitor is fast paced yet the sinister build up to the murderous events is not rushed. The danger from the virus as well as from others within and outside the community is completely absorbing.
Amidst the coronavirius pandemic, this book is scary! Set in the same reality as the Project Renova books, The Visitor is a stand alone novel set in 2024. Coronavirus has been and gone, the world recovered. But the new disease is much more deadly and every case is fatal. The politics of the original books are still there with the vaccine programme (again, scary given the current situation!)
The Visitor is written from Jack and Avalon's first person perspectives as well as various other third person viewpoints. This allows us to understand and feel their emotions as their loved ones die and they adjust to life in the village. The Visitor also has their own first person chapters so we anticipate their next move...
The murder mystery is a fascinating plot device which stands this book apart from the other Project Renova books. The fear and suspicion adds an extra element to the plot and provides extra character development. It engages the reader as we try to figure out who the mysterious Visitor could be and deduce their motive.
Terry Tyler is such a clever writer as she plays to our fears and makes her characters and situations very realistic. She has used the current coronavirus pandemic to underscore her plot and it supports our understanding of the events, motives and actions of each character we encounter.
The Visitor is fast paced yet the sinister build up to the murderous events is not rushed. The danger from the virus as well as from others within and outside the community is completely absorbing.
October 31, 2021
2024 and a lethal virus is spreading rapidly across the world, and this just 4 years after the coronavirus pandemic. But Jack, Sarah, Daisy, and Rexy will be alright, won’t they? Because Sarah has inherited her uncle’s property in a remote Norfolk village, and this forward-thinking man had the foresight to build an underground bunker with everything one might need in the event of an apocalypse. Lulled into a sense of false security from the recovery after Covid, no one is prepared for Bat Fever. This time, vaccinations are scarce and the death toll is frightening from the onset with no letup. The Norfolk villagers are naturally suspicious of these newcomers, terrified that they might be helping to spread this disease into their rural idyll. And into the mix, fuelled perhaps by crazed grief, greed, or fear, a murderer is living in their midst. As the country closes down and basic infrastructures are dissolved, the villagers are forced to pull together to forage for and share precious supplies. But then the discovery of another murder rents apart their dwindling community as accusations fly once again.
This is a study of how people behave when under pressure, how their allegiances can be blown apart by the thoughts and actions of someone they thought they knew… loved, even. When the chips are down and its a fight for basic survival, the dynamics of all these relationships are tested to the limit. I liked the constant point of view change throughout the book as not only did it keep the tension high and the pacing nice and even, but it also allowed information to be drip-fed into the story in such a way that evidence is built slowly for the reader - until the killer is finally revealed. Deeply compelling, and although not my usual genre I thoroughly enjoyed the all too-real-feel of this story.
This is a study of how people behave when under pressure, how their allegiances can be blown apart by the thoughts and actions of someone they thought they knew… loved, even. When the chips are down and its a fight for basic survival, the dynamics of all these relationships are tested to the limit. I liked the constant point of view change throughout the book as not only did it keep the tension high and the pacing nice and even, but it also allowed information to be drip-fed into the story in such a way that evidence is built slowly for the reader - until the killer is finally revealed. Deeply compelling, and although not my usual genre I thoroughly enjoyed the all too-real-feel of this story.
February 19, 2021
2024: The apocalypse is here and people are dying from bat fever – a plague from which no one survives. That should be bad enough, but in an isolated town called Hincham, people are being murdered. In the eyes of those remaining (for the time being), the killer could be any one of them in the small, but rapidly diminishing community … or maybe not.
For me, what made this story so interesting, was that there were no police to be called, no clues to send off to the labs, and none of the usual tools the world has for solving murders. “The Visitor,” who also has another name we do not know, is part of the group being murdered, (by different methods), and there wasn’t one person safe from suspicion.
“The Visitor” who narrates throughout the book, is most chilling, especially as the character is not the typical sociopath. Who is it? Who could it be? And Why? Such an important question.
The entire mystery comes together in a very clever way. The author understands and captures the mindset of flawed human beings from many angles. The thought process of the killer … and the others, is quite fascinating indeed.
And yes, in these troubling times, this story is even more terrifying.
For me, what made this story so interesting, was that there were no police to be called, no clues to send off to the labs, and none of the usual tools the world has for solving murders. “The Visitor,” who also has another name we do not know, is part of the group being murdered, (by different methods), and there wasn’t one person safe from suspicion.
“The Visitor” who narrates throughout the book, is most chilling, especially as the character is not the typical sociopath. Who is it? Who could it be? And Why? Such an important question.
The entire mystery comes together in a very clever way. The author understands and captures the mindset of flawed human beings from many angles. The thought process of the killer … and the others, is quite fascinating indeed.
And yes, in these troubling times, this story is even more terrifying.
May 5, 2024
THE VISITOR
A Post Apocalyptic Murder Mystery
TERRY TYLER
Review by Author Roy Murry
A deadly outbreak plagues the world; a mere touch from a dying person seals your fate. Before this grim reality, a visionary uncle bequeaths Sarah a residence in an English village, complete with an underground bunker stocked to the brim with provisions and modern essentials, a last bastion against an apocalypse.
The event arrives, and Sarah and her somewhat associates begin their life in the village. People worldwide are dying in multitude, with only a few lucky ones vaccinated against the curse - the new world order.
Interwoven into this plot is a killer of the underserved—they are deleted, according to THE VISITOR. Finding who this person is overshadows the plague.
The village members are leaving; food is getting lesser and lesser, water is rationed, and people are being murdered. Tensions arise among the villagers to an explosive ending that surprises everyone, including the reader.
Ms. Tyler's prose invites the reader into an end-of-times thriller that will entertain the mind to the end.
A Post Apocalyptic Murder Mystery
TERRY TYLER
Review by Author Roy Murry
A deadly outbreak plagues the world; a mere touch from a dying person seals your fate. Before this grim reality, a visionary uncle bequeaths Sarah a residence in an English village, complete with an underground bunker stocked to the brim with provisions and modern essentials, a last bastion against an apocalypse.
The event arrives, and Sarah and her somewhat associates begin their life in the village. People worldwide are dying in multitude, with only a few lucky ones vaccinated against the curse - the new world order.
Interwoven into this plot is a killer of the underserved—they are deleted, according to THE VISITOR. Finding who this person is overshadows the plague.
The village members are leaving; food is getting lesser and lesser, water is rationed, and people are being murdered. Tensions arise among the villagers to an explosive ending that surprises everyone, including the reader.
Ms. Tyler's prose invites the reader into an end-of-times thriller that will entertain the mind to the end.
January 6, 2021
I know, I know. You're thinking 'why would anyone want to read this kind of story right now?' Call me crazy, but I find them weirdly comforting. And, as the author's notes say; although this book takes place during a major pandemic, the pandemic itself isn't the point; it's just the reason the rest of the plot happens.
I'd love to read the companion series (is this the companion title? Not really sure which way it works...) as this plague is creepy and fantastically well written. I absolutely expected to find out that the vaccine didn't work, but if that does happen in the series, it's not in this one; the vaccinated characters ramble around more or less with impunity.
I had my suspicions about the murderer, and I had it down to two when the person tipped their hand. I still couldn't be sure about either of them, though, which shows the clever writing and planning. Admittedly I'm not the best at murder mysteries, so other readers might solve it faster than I did.
A fantastic read, one I really enjoyed.
I'd love to read the companion series (is this the companion title? Not really sure which way it works...) as this plague is creepy and fantastically well written. I absolutely expected to find out that the vaccine didn't work, but if that does happen in the series, it's not in this one; the vaccinated characters ramble around more or less with impunity.
I had my suspicions about the murderer, and I had it down to two when the person tipped their hand. I still couldn't be sure about either of them, though, which shows the clever writing and planning. Admittedly I'm not the best at murder mysteries, so other readers might solve it faster than I did.
A fantastic read, one I really enjoyed.
March 26, 2024
what a thriller!
If ever you are in need of a really good murder mystery, this is the one to go for.
The story unfolds with a killer virus, if you get it, you’re dead. End of! What would you do if a relative leaves you a lovely country cottage with its very own well stocked survival bunker when he dies? You would go there. When the virus starts taking lives wouldn’t you?
That is what happens here. Friends join together at this lovely peaceful cottage, in a lovely quiet village with some decent neighbours. All trying their best to survive in this strange new world.
But, when the residents are beginning die, one by one. When they fear a murderer is amongst them and they wonder who will be next……then they begin to wonder if their friend or neighbour is the killer.
This is a great read. Thrilling and tense. I could not guess the culprit at all. Every suspect I had in my mind, was murdered!
Could you guess who is wandering around this quiet village, praying on innocent people?
If ever you are in need of a really good murder mystery, this is the one to go for.
The story unfolds with a killer virus, if you get it, you’re dead. End of! What would you do if a relative leaves you a lovely country cottage with its very own well stocked survival bunker when he dies? You would go there. When the virus starts taking lives wouldn’t you?
That is what happens here. Friends join together at this lovely peaceful cottage, in a lovely quiet village with some decent neighbours. All trying their best to survive in this strange new world.
But, when the residents are beginning die, one by one. When they fear a murderer is amongst them and they wonder who will be next……then they begin to wonder if their friend or neighbour is the killer.
This is a great read. Thrilling and tense. I could not guess the culprit at all. Every suspect I had in my mind, was murdered!
Could you guess who is wandering around this quiet village, praying on innocent people?
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