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In The Dark: a gripping psychological suspense
Someone knows what you did... Liv knows what kind of boy her grandson is. She knows Seb would never do anything to hurt his girlfriend, Izzy. But could the shadow cast by his father be influencing the boy she loves? Caitlyn, Izzy’s mother, is desperate to reach her daughter, but she only seems to push her further away. Can she help her daughter or are Caitlyn's own demons standing in the way? When an inappropriate photo of Izzy is shared online, no one is prepared for the ripples that threaten to tear their lives apart. Will the truth come out before it's too late? Or is the damage already done? 'Kept me awake well into the dark, desperate to find out more...' - Louise Mumford, author of Sleepless 'A great, slow-burn family drama with some dark themes, that is packed with emotion and heart.' - Sarah A. Denzil, author of Silent Child 'A powerful and poignant read, with hugely relevant topics at the heart.' 'Must-read for 2021 and very worthy of five stars.' 'I loved this so much, I flew through it in a day!' 'Powerful psychological thriller highlighting current issues and concerns in the digital age.'
322 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2021
174 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Vikki Patis
14 books200 followersThis author is also published under the pen name Victoria Hawthorne.
Vikki Patis is an author of suspense novels with a gothic twist. Her latest novel, Return to Blackwater House, was published in March 2022 by Hodder & Stoughton, and her debut horror novel will be published in 2026.
She also writes historical fiction as Victoria Hawthorne. Her debut historical suspense novel, The House at Helygen, was published in April 2022 by Quercus and later became a bestseller. The Darkest Night was published in April 2024 and was the runner-up for the ADCI Literary Prize.
She lives in Scotland with her wife, two wild golden retrievers, and an even wilder cat.
Vikki Patis is an author of suspense novels with a gothic twist. Her latest novel, Return to Blackwater House, was published in March 2022 by Hodder & Stoughton, and her debut horror novel will be published in 2026.
She also writes historical fiction as Victoria Hawthorne. Her debut historical suspense novel, The House at Helygen, was published in April 2022 by Quercus and later became a bestseller. The Darkest Night was published in April 2024 and was the runner-up for the ADCI Literary Prize.
She lives in Scotland with her wife, two wild golden retrievers, and an even wilder cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 3, 2021
I have enjoyed all of Patis‘s other books so far and this one did not disappoint either. Written in a similar style, I enjoyed getting to know the different characters through the range of narrative perspectives.
All of the characters are in some form of metaphorical darkness, really providing symbolism to the title. Told from a range of perspectives, readers grow to understand that a photograph of Izzy has been shared online around the school. It is a mother’s worst nightmare and the novel opens with Caitlyn discovering Izzy in a tragic situation. What follows is a journey of trying to understand why the picture was sent in the first place, and who forwarded it to so many other people. Poor Izzy. She is traumatised by the situation, as you would expect, and I could completely understand Caitlyn’s feelings of helplessness.
On the other hand, readers also learn about Seb, who is Izzy’s boyfriend. Initially one of the suspects behind Izzy’s photograph, it soon becomes clear that this is a novel not just about the trolling of Izzy, but also class and background. Seb, raised by his grandmother, is aware of how his skin colour will alter people’s perceptions of him. Add in to the fact that his dad is in prison, Seb’s grandmother fears that these traits will emerge in her grandson. It’s a twisted web of confusion and isolation as Seb and Liv grow further apart: pushed not just by Izzy’s police investigation, but a desire for truth that no one can acknowledge.
The layers woven in this narrative are completely immersive. Without revealing too much of the plot developments, I was really keen to see how all the different characters would ‘see the light’. I loved the layers of meaning behind the title and how it could be applied to the majority of characters. Although I guessed before the end how the novel would conclude, I was still interested to see how it would unfold. This is an example of Patis’s great writing as an author and why I have enjoyed her previous novels. They all follow a similar format of being narrated by different perspectives, but I do like the investigative nature as readers are forced to put together their own version of events.
Don’t be put off by the jumps in narrative perspectives as it is all part of the process of understanding what caused Izzy to distribute the image. I felt more connected to the characters because of this deeper insight to their thoughts and feelings. Each character has a very unique personality and I found it fascinating to see the contrasts grow between them all, even if they were connected as family.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All of the characters are in some form of metaphorical darkness, really providing symbolism to the title. Told from a range of perspectives, readers grow to understand that a photograph of Izzy has been shared online around the school. It is a mother’s worst nightmare and the novel opens with Caitlyn discovering Izzy in a tragic situation. What follows is a journey of trying to understand why the picture was sent in the first place, and who forwarded it to so many other people. Poor Izzy. She is traumatised by the situation, as you would expect, and I could completely understand Caitlyn’s feelings of helplessness.
On the other hand, readers also learn about Seb, who is Izzy’s boyfriend. Initially one of the suspects behind Izzy’s photograph, it soon becomes clear that this is a novel not just about the trolling of Izzy, but also class and background. Seb, raised by his grandmother, is aware of how his skin colour will alter people’s perceptions of him. Add in to the fact that his dad is in prison, Seb’s grandmother fears that these traits will emerge in her grandson. It’s a twisted web of confusion and isolation as Seb and Liv grow further apart: pushed not just by Izzy’s police investigation, but a desire for truth that no one can acknowledge.
The layers woven in this narrative are completely immersive. Without revealing too much of the plot developments, I was really keen to see how all the different characters would ‘see the light’. I loved the layers of meaning behind the title and how it could be applied to the majority of characters. Although I guessed before the end how the novel would conclude, I was still interested to see how it would unfold. This is an example of Patis’s great writing as an author and why I have enjoyed her previous novels. They all follow a similar format of being narrated by different perspectives, but I do like the investigative nature as readers are forced to put together their own version of events.
Don’t be put off by the jumps in narrative perspectives as it is all part of the process of understanding what caused Izzy to distribute the image. I felt more connected to the characters because of this deeper insight to their thoughts and feelings. Each character has a very unique personality and I found it fascinating to see the contrasts grow between them all, even if they were connected as family.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2021
IN THE DARK is the fifth psychological suspense novel by Vikki Patis.
Each Chapter is devoted to one of the main characters: Liv, Seb, Caitlyn and Izzy.
Liv-Grandmother to Seb, currently raising Seb after his mother, Paige had been murdered by her husband, Brad, now serving time in prison.
Seb-Grandson is a quiet well-mannered teenager, “a good boy” says his Nan.
Caitlyn-2nd marriage, husband, Michael. 1st husband Anthony left and remarried to Miranda. Caitlyn and Anthony had two daughters: Alicia older sister (currently away at University) and Izzy.
Izzy-Seb’s girlfriend and troubled teenager.
Caitlyn comes home to find her daughter; Izzy has slit her wrists in the bathroom. But she was still alive, and Caitlyn calls 911. This was the second visit in the past twelve months, with the “cry for help” each time getting more serious.
Seb got sent a photo on Snapchat that his fifteen- year- old girlfriend, Izzy took a semi-nude selfie, and sent it to someone. Now the photo was circulating on the internet. Seb doesn’t know why she took the picture or who she sent it to. When Seb received it, he didn’t share it. He decided not to say anything hoping things will blow over. Izzy isn’t answering her phone!
Izzy just wanted to fit in, as she was been bullied at school.
Liv was called to the school and told there had been an incident…an allegation that Seb had been involved in sharing of a graphic image…an image of a young girl…a student. Seb is the prime suspect. Liv knows what kind of boy her grandson is. She knows Seb would never do anything to hurt his girlfriend Izzy. But could the shadow cast by his father be influencing the boy she loves?
Caitlyn, Izzy’s mother, is desperate to reach her daughter, but she only seems to push her further away. Will she be able to reach out to her daughter?
No one is prepared for the fallout that threatens to tear people’s lives apart, as a result of this inappropriate photo that had been shared online. Will the truth come out before it's too late? Or is the damage already done?
This novel deals with family drama as it copes with sensitive subjects of bullying and suicide. The author does an excellent job of bringing these issues to the forefront and dealing with them in an effective way.
Many thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for my digital copy.
Each Chapter is devoted to one of the main characters: Liv, Seb, Caitlyn and Izzy.
Liv-Grandmother to Seb, currently raising Seb after his mother, Paige had been murdered by her husband, Brad, now serving time in prison.
Seb-Grandson is a quiet well-mannered teenager, “a good boy” says his Nan.
Caitlyn-2nd marriage, husband, Michael. 1st husband Anthony left and remarried to Miranda. Caitlyn and Anthony had two daughters: Alicia older sister (currently away at University) and Izzy.
Izzy-Seb’s girlfriend and troubled teenager.
Caitlyn comes home to find her daughter; Izzy has slit her wrists in the bathroom. But she was still alive, and Caitlyn calls 911. This was the second visit in the past twelve months, with the “cry for help” each time getting more serious.
Seb got sent a photo on Snapchat that his fifteen- year- old girlfriend, Izzy took a semi-nude selfie, and sent it to someone. Now the photo was circulating on the internet. Seb doesn’t know why she took the picture or who she sent it to. When Seb received it, he didn’t share it. He decided not to say anything hoping things will blow over. Izzy isn’t answering her phone!
Izzy just wanted to fit in, as she was been bullied at school.
Liv was called to the school and told there had been an incident…an allegation that Seb had been involved in sharing of a graphic image…an image of a young girl…a student. Seb is the prime suspect. Liv knows what kind of boy her grandson is. She knows Seb would never do anything to hurt his girlfriend Izzy. But could the shadow cast by his father be influencing the boy she loves?
Caitlyn, Izzy’s mother, is desperate to reach her daughter, but she only seems to push her further away. Will she be able to reach out to her daughter?
No one is prepared for the fallout that threatens to tear people’s lives apart, as a result of this inappropriate photo that had been shared online. Will the truth come out before it's too late? Or is the damage already done?
This novel deals with family drama as it copes with sensitive subjects of bullying and suicide. The author does an excellent job of bringing these issues to the forefront and dealing with them in an effective way.
Many thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for my digital copy.
February 9, 2021
“In The Dark” by Vikki Patis is a suspenseful and secret filled novel. Family dynamics are tested to the maximum, friendships are strained and full of angst.
The characters are tightly written and very well portrayed.
A great read and I look forward to reading many more by this author.
The characters are tightly written and very well portrayed.
A great read and I look forward to reading many more by this author.
September 1, 2021
Boring! Little storyline, lots of extraneous detail.
February 27, 2021
A thought-provoking read about bullying, but also familial love and tragedies.
We follow multiple people in the aftermath of a young teenager's suicide attempt:
Why did she do it, and how everyone's lives changed after that traumatic event, from the overwhelmed mother, to the clueless boyfriend and his family...
All in all this was an interesting book with important topics discussed, or at least broached.
Removed 1 star, just for the pace, as it was too slow for my liking at times.
We follow multiple people in the aftermath of a young teenager's suicide attempt:
Why did she do it, and how everyone's lives changed after that traumatic event, from the overwhelmed mother, to the clueless boyfriend and his family...
All in all this was an interesting book with important topics discussed, or at least broached.
Removed 1 star, just for the pace, as it was too slow for my liking at times.
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October 30, 2023Not a thriller, pretty boring
February 21, 2021
A powerful and poignant read, with hugely relevant topics at the heart.
I love reading Vikki’s books, they always draw you in straight away and I find them so easy to read. It is an honour to be one of her early readers.
This story is told from multiple perspectives and has an array of sub-plots but at the centre of the story is Izzy, a troubled teenager, who is being bullied. The poor girl thought she could trust someone and went as far as sharing a nude picture of herself with them, but it is not long before the picture is shared on group messages throughout the school and everyone is laughing at her. With this and the bullying, Izzy just can’t see a way out and plunges into dark despair.
Seb is Izzy’s boyfriend who finds himself suspect number one for sharing the photo. With a dad in prison for murder, many could assume he is set to follow in his father’s footsteps. Is it fair to judge him on his family’s past? Or is he just an innocent bystander?
The chapters follow the teens and the events after the photo has been shared and how both their lives spiral in different directions. Izzy’s mum Caitlyn and Seb’s nan Liv also play a big part in the story and have secrets and lies from the past that are unearthed as we read on.
Whilst this is a psychological thriller and at times it definitely has the suspense of one, I feel it could possibly also sit under a different genre, I can’t think which one 🤔. It is also a very emotional read at times and it really pulled at my heartstrings. Vikki has covered some very sensitive topics like bullying, mental health, race & more and she has handled these topics brilliantly and with great care.
Parts of this story bought back memories for me having been bullied myself when I was younger and as hard as that was back then, it made me feel sorrier for the younger generation these days. When I was a teen it was often just cruel words but these days there is so much more pressure to be a certain way and have the latest gadget or pair of trainers and then there is the dreaded social media. Lives just aren’t private anymore, even when you want them to be.
I love that Vikki still featured Plymouth in the book, even though this one wasn’t solely based there. Living in Plymouth I don’t need to imagine the places that are in the book, as I know them very well, so this always adds to my enjoyment.
This is a really well-written story and what I loved the most was that I had no idea where it was going, and I did not guess the ending.
Huge thanks to Vikki Patis and Bloodhound Books for my ARC of this book.
I love reading Vikki’s books, they always draw you in straight away and I find them so easy to read. It is an honour to be one of her early readers.
This story is told from multiple perspectives and has an array of sub-plots but at the centre of the story is Izzy, a troubled teenager, who is being bullied. The poor girl thought she could trust someone and went as far as sharing a nude picture of herself with them, but it is not long before the picture is shared on group messages throughout the school and everyone is laughing at her. With this and the bullying, Izzy just can’t see a way out and plunges into dark despair.
Seb is Izzy’s boyfriend who finds himself suspect number one for sharing the photo. With a dad in prison for murder, many could assume he is set to follow in his father’s footsteps. Is it fair to judge him on his family’s past? Or is he just an innocent bystander?
The chapters follow the teens and the events after the photo has been shared and how both their lives spiral in different directions. Izzy’s mum Caitlyn and Seb’s nan Liv also play a big part in the story and have secrets and lies from the past that are unearthed as we read on.
Whilst this is a psychological thriller and at times it definitely has the suspense of one, I feel it could possibly also sit under a different genre, I can’t think which one 🤔. It is also a very emotional read at times and it really pulled at my heartstrings. Vikki has covered some very sensitive topics like bullying, mental health, race & more and she has handled these topics brilliantly and with great care.
Parts of this story bought back memories for me having been bullied myself when I was younger and as hard as that was back then, it made me feel sorrier for the younger generation these days. When I was a teen it was often just cruel words but these days there is so much more pressure to be a certain way and have the latest gadget or pair of trainers and then there is the dreaded social media. Lives just aren’t private anymore, even when you want them to be.
I love that Vikki still featured Plymouth in the book, even though this one wasn’t solely based there. Living in Plymouth I don’t need to imagine the places that are in the book, as I know them very well, so this always adds to my enjoyment.
This is a really well-written story and what I loved the most was that I had no idea where it was going, and I did not guess the ending.
Huge thanks to Vikki Patis and Bloodhound Books for my ARC of this book.
February 15, 2021
My Review:
My first book by Vikki Patis and it will definitely not be my last. I loved, loved, loved this book so much. What wasn’t there to love about this book is the real question? I can’t wait to read more of her books. I’m buying them all.
This book was about a young girl who made a bad decision and couldn’t live with that bad decision anymore. She decides to take her own life. Little does she know she doesn’t just affect her own life but she also affects everyone else’s life around her. Why did this young girl think suicide was her only answer? What really happened to her to make her want to end her life? You find out these answers and so much more.
I want to start off by thanking Vikki Patis for writing such a great book. She dealt with several sensitive subjects in this book and handled them so brilliantly. First, she dealt with bullying. She showed us what bullying can really look like and how it can affect someone. Bullying not only affects the victim but also affects everyone around them. I felt so bad for the victims mother in this book. I have no clue how I would handle the same situation. You want it to stop but by you going in there in mother beast mode you will make the bullying even worse. So what do you do? I have a soon to be 13 year old and I know one day he will have this same exact problem and I hope I can deal with it as good as this mother did. Next subject was suicide. Wow, what a hard topic that is. This hits so close to home and I think we can all relate. I know there have been several moments in my life where I felt like it was all too much and I just wanted it all to end. It’s those moments where you really have to look and think to yourself that suicide is never the answer. This book really made you think and that’s what I loved the most about about it. I also loved that ending. You got the answers that you were looking for since the beginning of the book. It was all wrapped up nicely with a bow on top. It felt like Christmas morning all over again.
Between the plot, characters and all the twists in this book it made it an easy and fast read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My first book by Vikki Patis and it will definitely not be my last. I loved, loved, loved this book so much. What wasn’t there to love about this book is the real question? I can’t wait to read more of her books. I’m buying them all.
This book was about a young girl who made a bad decision and couldn’t live with that bad decision anymore. She decides to take her own life. Little does she know she doesn’t just affect her own life but she also affects everyone else’s life around her. Why did this young girl think suicide was her only answer? What really happened to her to make her want to end her life? You find out these answers and so much more.
I want to start off by thanking Vikki Patis for writing such a great book. She dealt with several sensitive subjects in this book and handled them so brilliantly. First, she dealt with bullying. She showed us what bullying can really look like and how it can affect someone. Bullying not only affects the victim but also affects everyone around them. I felt so bad for the victims mother in this book. I have no clue how I would handle the same situation. You want it to stop but by you going in there in mother beast mode you will make the bullying even worse. So what do you do? I have a soon to be 13 year old and I know one day he will have this same exact problem and I hope I can deal with it as good as this mother did. Next subject was suicide. Wow, what a hard topic that is. This hits so close to home and I think we can all relate. I know there have been several moments in my life where I felt like it was all too much and I just wanted it all to end. It’s those moments where you really have to look and think to yourself that suicide is never the answer. This book really made you think and that’s what I loved the most about about it. I also loved that ending. You got the answers that you were looking for since the beginning of the book. It was all wrapped up nicely with a bow on top. It felt like Christmas morning all over again.
Between the plot, characters and all the twists in this book it made it an easy and fast read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
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March 2, 2021Another emotional and powerful book by Vikki Patis!
Fifteen-year-old Izzy sent an intimate picture of herself to someone she trusted, but soon that picture is spread around her school and cruelly mocked by the other students. She's devastated.
In The Dark follows the aftermath of the incident and how it affects the families of Izzy, her boyfriend Seb, and the teenagers' friends. Every character feels fleshed out and real, with interesting backstories and problems of their own. The complexities of difficult subjects are handled sensitively, and I think parents will really identify with the themes in this book. In The Dark is a great, slow-burn family drama with some dark themes, that is packed with emotion and heart.
Fifteen-year-old Izzy sent an intimate picture of herself to someone she trusted, but soon that picture is spread around her school and cruelly mocked by the other students. She's devastated.
In The Dark follows the aftermath of the incident and how it affects the families of Izzy, her boyfriend Seb, and the teenagers' friends. Every character feels fleshed out and real, with interesting backstories and problems of their own. The complexities of difficult subjects are handled sensitively, and I think parents will really identify with the themes in this book. In The Dark is a great, slow-burn family drama with some dark themes, that is packed with emotion and heart.
February 10, 2021
I haven’t read this author before so had no expectations one way or another and I really enjoyed this book. It’s very well put together and despite each chapter being written from the perspective of one of the characters, which I do sometimes find confusing, not so with this book.
Briefly, Izzy is a mixed up teenager who sends a topless photograph of herself to someone, but the photograph ends up being shared online, and Izzy is so ashamed and upset she can’t deal with it; and her mother Caitlin only makes matters worse. Meanwhile, Izzys boyfriend Seb has his own problems. He has lived with his Grandmother Liv since he was a child after his father killed his mother.
Can Seb and Izzy sort out their feelings...
I didn’t see the climax of this book coming. Definitely worth a read 4*
Briefly, Izzy is a mixed up teenager who sends a topless photograph of herself to someone, but the photograph ends up being shared online, and Izzy is so ashamed and upset she can’t deal with it; and her mother Caitlin only makes matters worse. Meanwhile, Izzys boyfriend Seb has his own problems. He has lived with his Grandmother Liv since he was a child after his father killed his mother.
Can Seb and Izzy sort out their feelings...
I didn’t see the climax of this book coming. Definitely worth a read 4*
February 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this novel - thanks to the author for the advanced read!
The cast of the book is really varied and so can explore many different relationships – mother and daughter, grandmother and grandson, teenage friendships and affairs, but it doesn’t suffer for the broad take on a difficult situation.
Liv is grandmother to Seb, her grandson who had a difficult start to life. He’s a lovely boy, but she worries that his past – specifically his father – might corrupt him. When his girlfriend attempts suicide, suspicions are raised from all sorts of angles. Izzy, his girlfriend, has her own secrets to contend with, as does her controlling mother, Caitlyn. Who is to blame?
Brilliantly full of revelations, this one is the epitome of a page turner!
The cast of the book is really varied and so can explore many different relationships – mother and daughter, grandmother and grandson, teenage friendships and affairs, but it doesn’t suffer for the broad take on a difficult situation.
Liv is grandmother to Seb, her grandson who had a difficult start to life. He’s a lovely boy, but she worries that his past – specifically his father – might corrupt him. When his girlfriend attempts suicide, suspicions are raised from all sorts of angles. Izzy, his girlfriend, has her own secrets to contend with, as does her controlling mother, Caitlyn. Who is to blame?
Brilliantly full of revelations, this one is the epitome of a page turner!
February 24, 2021
Actual rating 4.5 stars
This novel opens with quite a distressing scene in which Caitlyn finds her daughter Izzy has once again attempted to take her own life. The reason for this drastic course of action quickly becomes apparent since a revealing photo of Izzy, barely clothed, has been shared to a WhatsApp group, subjecting this young girl to much ridicule and derision courtesy of her classmates. Having never fit in with her peers, always the ‘weird one’ on the periphery, even boyfriend Seb’s school ground popularity cannot shield her from the fallout of this latest source of scandal. Unsurprisingly Seb is the prime suspect when it comes to investigating who is responsible for sharing this private snapshot but beware of making hasty assumptions; all is not as it seems. In the Dark will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt themselves to be an outsider, for whatever reason, or who’s questioned their identity as the author draws you into an engaging storyline full of surprises.
What a complex tale this is! Speaking volumes about what it is to be human this is a part coming of age story and part warning of the perils of baring your soul (and other parts of your anatomy!) via social media and the pressures to conform and live up to parental expectations hopefully avoiding repeating the past mistakes of older generations. The author has alighted on some serious issues incorporating bullying, self harm,suicide and racism amid the highs and lows of parenting a teenager on the cusp of adulthood, understanding their anxieties and thereby creating characters of substance, ones that you deeply care about the further you venture into the storyline.
Izzy is the youngest daughter of Caitlyn, her father Anthony abandoning her and sister Alicia at a tender age, raised by their mother until stepfather Michael comes onto the scene. She is at a confusing and stressful point in her young life, seemingly friendless, trying to find her place in this mad world and with exams approaching, life is a bit too much to handle. Seb is of mixed race heritage having been brought up solely by his grandmother Liv since the age of four. A loving, helpful, kind and morally upright character he is appalled to find himself at the centre of this allegation.
Whilst it’s easier to relate to the mother figures of Caitlyn and Liv, this is a storyline that reminds you of what it is to be young and feel the weight of the world upon your shoulders. We’ve all been there before, yet with age and life experience and a growing sense of wisdom comes the tendency to forget how vulnerable the likes of Izzy and Seb are at this point in their lives when the slightest worry can take on gigantic proportions. Feeling comfortable in your own skin can take a lifetime to achieve so I felt much empathy towards these two and fearful for their futures. Michael, Izzy’s stepfather, is definitely of the ‘pull yourself together’ school of thought as opposed to Caitlyn who symbolises every mother whose actions are driven primarily by their desire to see their children happy, safe and well loved. You never stop being a mother however old your children are! As a mother myself I could sympathise with Caitlyn and Liv who are simply trying their best to be good mothers but inevitably they struggle to grasp the complexities of the situation Izzy and Seb find themselves in, their own secrets a burden they must carry until the time comes when exposing the truth is the only option.
The author has brought to life a very realistic scenario, given how influential social media is in the eyes of so many, particularly the younger generation. She’s imagined the consequences arising from one bad split decision that has repercussions for both Izzy and Seb with events that follow signified by further questionable choices, turmoil and much unhappiness. Seb’s anger at the injustice of the situation he’s found himself in, petrified of repeating the sins of his father since society has such low expectations of him leads him down a path that is so out of character you wonder if he’s passed the point of no return. In Seb’s case the past is crucial when it comes to forging his own identity and treading his own path so I had everything crossed that the time and love Liv has invested in her grandson pays dividends. Regarding Izzy you hope and pray she can come to value herself as an individual who is as worthy of love and friendship as the next person. In my opinion all these characters are deserving of your time and attention. Liv and Seb’s backstory that tells of hardship and tragedy makes this pair all the more likeable for their efforts to overcome the hurdles they face everyday and the hostility that surrounds them once Seb finds himself the prime suspect in the photo scandal. I felt much love towards this grandmother and her grandson who were my favourite two characters by far.
Because I was so caught up in the drama that ensues following Izzy’s naive and spur of the moment decision I kind of took my eye off the ball and forgot I should be considering WHY Izzy is a target for bullies and WHO is responsible for sharing her photo. Whilst my thoughts were focused on the lives of these two families, half guessing at the secrets both Caitlyn and Liv themselves are withholding I allowed the suspense element to pale almost into insignificance. Perhaps that’s why I was surprised by the revelation when it came, the key to unlocking what lies at the heart of all Izzy’s troubles hiding in plain sight. I think it’s a shame we have to pigeonhole books and place them within a certain genre as so often storylines straddle more than one. Personally I would place In the Dark in the category of family drama with a generous side helping of suspense thrown in. As a newcomer to this author’s writing I can honestly say I absolutely loved this novel and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to fellow readers. If the day job hadn’t interfered with my reading time, this is one that can easily be devoured within one sitting. My thanks as always to Bloodhound books for giving me the opportunity to read and bringing this author’s writing to my attention. Vikki Patis has gained another fan!
This novel opens with quite a distressing scene in which Caitlyn finds her daughter Izzy has once again attempted to take her own life. The reason for this drastic course of action quickly becomes apparent since a revealing photo of Izzy, barely clothed, has been shared to a WhatsApp group, subjecting this young girl to much ridicule and derision courtesy of her classmates. Having never fit in with her peers, always the ‘weird one’ on the periphery, even boyfriend Seb’s school ground popularity cannot shield her from the fallout of this latest source of scandal. Unsurprisingly Seb is the prime suspect when it comes to investigating who is responsible for sharing this private snapshot but beware of making hasty assumptions; all is not as it seems. In the Dark will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt themselves to be an outsider, for whatever reason, or who’s questioned their identity as the author draws you into an engaging storyline full of surprises.
What a complex tale this is! Speaking volumes about what it is to be human this is a part coming of age story and part warning of the perils of baring your soul (and other parts of your anatomy!) via social media and the pressures to conform and live up to parental expectations hopefully avoiding repeating the past mistakes of older generations. The author has alighted on some serious issues incorporating bullying, self harm,suicide and racism amid the highs and lows of parenting a teenager on the cusp of adulthood, understanding their anxieties and thereby creating characters of substance, ones that you deeply care about the further you venture into the storyline.
Izzy is the youngest daughter of Caitlyn, her father Anthony abandoning her and sister Alicia at a tender age, raised by their mother until stepfather Michael comes onto the scene. She is at a confusing and stressful point in her young life, seemingly friendless, trying to find her place in this mad world and with exams approaching, life is a bit too much to handle. Seb is of mixed race heritage having been brought up solely by his grandmother Liv since the age of four. A loving, helpful, kind and morally upright character he is appalled to find himself at the centre of this allegation.
Whilst it’s easier to relate to the mother figures of Caitlyn and Liv, this is a storyline that reminds you of what it is to be young and feel the weight of the world upon your shoulders. We’ve all been there before, yet with age and life experience and a growing sense of wisdom comes the tendency to forget how vulnerable the likes of Izzy and Seb are at this point in their lives when the slightest worry can take on gigantic proportions. Feeling comfortable in your own skin can take a lifetime to achieve so I felt much empathy towards these two and fearful for their futures. Michael, Izzy’s stepfather, is definitely of the ‘pull yourself together’ school of thought as opposed to Caitlyn who symbolises every mother whose actions are driven primarily by their desire to see their children happy, safe and well loved. You never stop being a mother however old your children are! As a mother myself I could sympathise with Caitlyn and Liv who are simply trying their best to be good mothers but inevitably they struggle to grasp the complexities of the situation Izzy and Seb find themselves in, their own secrets a burden they must carry until the time comes when exposing the truth is the only option.
The author has brought to life a very realistic scenario, given how influential social media is in the eyes of so many, particularly the younger generation. She’s imagined the consequences arising from one bad split decision that has repercussions for both Izzy and Seb with events that follow signified by further questionable choices, turmoil and much unhappiness. Seb’s anger at the injustice of the situation he’s found himself in, petrified of repeating the sins of his father since society has such low expectations of him leads him down a path that is so out of character you wonder if he’s passed the point of no return. In Seb’s case the past is crucial when it comes to forging his own identity and treading his own path so I had everything crossed that the time and love Liv has invested in her grandson pays dividends. Regarding Izzy you hope and pray she can come to value herself as an individual who is as worthy of love and friendship as the next person. In my opinion all these characters are deserving of your time and attention. Liv and Seb’s backstory that tells of hardship and tragedy makes this pair all the more likeable for their efforts to overcome the hurdles they face everyday and the hostility that surrounds them once Seb finds himself the prime suspect in the photo scandal. I felt much love towards this grandmother and her grandson who were my favourite two characters by far.
Because I was so caught up in the drama that ensues following Izzy’s naive and spur of the moment decision I kind of took my eye off the ball and forgot I should be considering WHY Izzy is a target for bullies and WHO is responsible for sharing her photo. Whilst my thoughts were focused on the lives of these two families, half guessing at the secrets both Caitlyn and Liv themselves are withholding I allowed the suspense element to pale almost into insignificance. Perhaps that’s why I was surprised by the revelation when it came, the key to unlocking what lies at the heart of all Izzy’s troubles hiding in plain sight. I think it’s a shame we have to pigeonhole books and place them within a certain genre as so often storylines straddle more than one. Personally I would place In the Dark in the category of family drama with a generous side helping of suspense thrown in. As a newcomer to this author’s writing I can honestly say I absolutely loved this novel and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to fellow readers. If the day job hadn’t interfered with my reading time, this is one that can easily be devoured within one sitting. My thanks as always to Bloodhound books for giving me the opportunity to read and bringing this author’s writing to my attention. Vikki Patis has gained another fan!
March 16, 2021
I love Vikki’s books, her writing is accessible and well crafted. Her characters are deep and life like - as if they come out her head fully formed - and her world building is vivid and real.
Vikki understands the worlds she creates.
In The Dark, delves into 21st century issues: racism, the dangers of social media, image sharing, teenage peer pressure, bullying and sexuality, and, parents and carers struggling with their own insecurities whilst trying to keep up and support their teens in a world they themselves don’t fully understand.
It’s a compelling story, one that tugs at the heart strings and I thoroughly enjoyed it, I’m just not sure that it fits into the psychological suspense category - there are crimes and mystery, yes - but for me this is a coming of age and a story of redemption.
Vikki understands the worlds she creates.
In The Dark, delves into 21st century issues: racism, the dangers of social media, image sharing, teenage peer pressure, bullying and sexuality, and, parents and carers struggling with their own insecurities whilst trying to keep up and support their teens in a world they themselves don’t fully understand.
It’s a compelling story, one that tugs at the heart strings and I thoroughly enjoyed it, I’m just not sure that it fits into the psychological suspense category - there are crimes and mystery, yes - but for me this is a coming of age and a story of redemption.
June 17, 2025
Just when I think that I couldn’t love Vikki Patis’ books anymore, in she comes with another one that outdoes the previous! I just could not get enough of this book. Right from the prologue, which is so very confronting, Vikki Patis just puts her foot down hard on the accelerator and does not let up until the end. I was completely captivated by this story, which gave me some 13 reasons why vibes. It deals with some hard hitting topics, has a great cast of characters (both likeable and unlikable) and is perfectly written and executed. All up a very powerful and compelling read from such a talented author.
May 2, 2021
I find this book quite difficult to rate, as it was a good book but just not really to my taste.
The book is very well-written with rounded characters and realistic dialogue, but it is marketed as a psychological suspense novel and I'm not sure that that is entirely accurate.
It's a nice story and I appreciate the themes the author was exploring, but personally I found it a little bit boring to read. I really don't think that is a reflection on the quality of the book, I just prefer my stories to contain a bit more excitement and murder!
The book is very well-written with rounded characters and realistic dialogue, but it is marketed as a psychological suspense novel and I'm not sure that that is entirely accurate.
It's a nice story and I appreciate the themes the author was exploring, but personally I found it a little bit boring to read. I really don't think that is a reflection on the quality of the book, I just prefer my stories to contain a bit more excitement and murder!
January 12, 2024
3.5 Stars. This was hard to get into. The first half was very slow and I almost gave up. The last few chapters everything came together. It is a good book including some hot topics and things teenagers and adults deal with and the effect it can have on them. The cyber bullying, suicide attempts, domestic violence, and murder. It also includes parent child relationship’s and the highs and lows they go thru, as well as generational curses and how easy the past repeats itself.
It would have been 4 if the first half wasn’t so boring.
It would have been 4 if the first half wasn’t so boring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2021
3.5* - 4*
A psychological suspense it's not. It is a very moving and engaging story. Vikki Patis has created vunerable and likable characters faced with awkward situations and lost in a cruel world. It's about family ties and relationships and trying to find solutions to very deep problems. Half truths, guilt, failures, revenge and the unmistakable damage it can cause....it's all here. It's really quite sad and pulls at the heart strings, but it makes very entertaining reading.
A psychological suspense it's not. It is a very moving and engaging story. Vikki Patis has created vunerable and likable characters faced with awkward situations and lost in a cruel world. It's about family ties and relationships and trying to find solutions to very deep problems. Half truths, guilt, failures, revenge and the unmistakable damage it can cause....it's all here. It's really quite sad and pulls at the heart strings, but it makes very entertaining reading.
April 22, 2021
Another very good book from VP
Really good book, good characters, believable and told from different view points. I wouldn't call it a thriller, more a family and friends saga, but enjoyable to read
Really good book, good characters, believable and told from different view points. I wouldn't call it a thriller, more a family and friends saga, but enjoyable to read
June 15, 2021
Teenagers with secrets, middle aged mother's and grandmothers with secrets, and as usual, one child bearing all the pain, "acting out". The story has a good ending though, proving once again that the truth , while it might initially tear you apart, really DOES set you free.
March 14, 2021
More like a teen book
I found this hard to follow it seemed to be more suited to teenagers it wasn’t very gripping or dark I gave it four stars as I finished it
I found this hard to follow it seemed to be more suited to teenagers it wasn’t very gripping or dark I gave it four stars as I finished it
March 22, 2021
Awesome
Very thrilling. I would not put it down. A must read. This book had me on the edge kept me guessing
Very thrilling. I would not put it down. A must read. This book had me on the edge kept me guessing
March 24, 2021
In the dark by Vikki Patis.
A very moving read. I really felt for izzy. Good story and characters. It must be hard for all concerned. A heartwarming read. 4*.
A very moving read. I really felt for izzy. Good story and characters. It must be hard for all concerned. A heartwarming read. 4*.
April 17, 2021
Amazing!
I'm not sure I'd classify this as a suspense book, but it was truly touching and the author brought the characters to life in such a heartwarming way
I'm not sure I'd classify this as a suspense book, but it was truly touching and the author brought the characters to life in such a heartwarming way
June 7, 2021
Read 6/6/2021.
July 8, 2022
Very good storyline, 4 stars.
September 9, 2021
A compelling enough read, but gaping holes of logic in first half, I almost didn't continue. I felt the author was overreaching.
What never did fit, how is a man guilty of murder up for parole after just over 10 years? And, why would his son choose to know him? I can't see "forgiving" someone for my mother's murder because I wanted a parental relationship, not with that record of parenting.
Regardless, after being hard to read the entire first half the author pulled together a lot of diverse themes by the end in a satisfactory manner & they all lived happily ever after.
What never did fit, how is a man guilty of murder up for parole after just over 10 years? And, why would his son choose to know him? I can't see "forgiving" someone for my mother's murder because I wanted a parental relationship, not with that record of parenting.
Regardless, after being hard to read the entire first half the author pulled together a lot of diverse themes by the end in a satisfactory manner & they all lived happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2021
Captivating and Diverse
A captivating read that blends diversity into the story. Characters struggling with identity, race, sexuality, and acceptance. Grandmother's raising grandkid, secrets and struggles . An enjoyable story.
A captivating read that blends diversity into the story. Characters struggling with identity, race, sexuality, and acceptance. Grandmother's raising grandkid, secrets and struggles . An enjoyable story.
March 3, 2021
A cracking read and one which clearly demonstrates the world we live in today.
Liv is bringing up her grandson Seb. Money is tight but he's a good boy - she has instilled good instincts into him. Surely he isn't responsible for what has happened to his girlfriend, Izzy? Caitllyn is Izzy's mother and realises there is a gulf between her and her daughter; could it be that Caitlyn's past has caused present issues? When an inappropriate photo of Izzy is shared online, both women get caught up in the aftermath.
Wow, what a story! Vikki Patis knows how to create a gripping story line which draws the reader in from the very first and keeps them hooked to the very last. With fully developed characters and entwining threads - all entirely believable - this is not just a book but one which will make you think about everyone involved. All very cleverly crafted, it kept me riveted all the way through. There is so much going on that I never actually spent too much time considering the issue of the online sharing of the pic, and yet it is central to everything. Never losing my focus, I was eager to find out how it all worked out. Very few of us live the life we dream of, and the author has done a terrific job of keeping it real. Full of suspense, this is an excellent read and one which kept the grey matter ticking over all the way until a very satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended, 4.5*.
Liv is bringing up her grandson Seb. Money is tight but he's a good boy - she has instilled good instincts into him. Surely he isn't responsible for what has happened to his girlfriend, Izzy? Caitllyn is Izzy's mother and realises there is a gulf between her and her daughter; could it be that Caitlyn's past has caused present issues? When an inappropriate photo of Izzy is shared online, both women get caught up in the aftermath.
Wow, what a story! Vikki Patis knows how to create a gripping story line which draws the reader in from the very first and keeps them hooked to the very last. With fully developed characters and entwining threads - all entirely believable - this is not just a book but one which will make you think about everyone involved. All very cleverly crafted, it kept me riveted all the way through. There is so much going on that I never actually spent too much time considering the issue of the online sharing of the pic, and yet it is central to everything. Never losing my focus, I was eager to find out how it all worked out. Very few of us live the life we dream of, and the author has done a terrific job of keeping it real. Full of suspense, this is an excellent read and one which kept the grey matter ticking over all the way until a very satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended, 4.5*.
March 3, 2021
I enjoyed this suspenseful thriller. This is a new author for me and I look forward to reading more from her in the future. This is a well rounded story that has twists and turns that left me sitting on the edge of my seat just waiting to see what will happen next. The characters are relateable and engaging. They made the story feel realistic and really made the story for me. What will happen when one photo could change life forever for these characters? I highly recommend this book.
March 4, 2021
A complex tale of family, loss, heartache, bullying and pain. Can families and friends survive these hard times? Caitlyn and her daughter Izzy have a tense relationship and when Izzy tries to commit suicide after a photo is shared online Caitlyn tries to get to the bottom of the problem. Seb, Izzy’s boyfriend, lives with his Grandmother, Liv, and she has enough to worry about with raising Seb singlehanded and the loss of her daughter and the decline in her own mother’s health but she will fight for her family.
Vikki’s books are always well written and this was no exception. Thank you to Vikki for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Vikki’s books are always well written and this was no exception. Thank you to Vikki for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
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