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The Woman in the Woods
The new psychological thriller from J.E. Rowney, bestselling author of "I Can't Sleep".
Seb is an asshole. Katie is an angel.
When Seb's night-time activity stretches their relationship to its limits, they couple decide to take a last-chance holiday to see if there's anything left to be fixed.
The cabin looked idyllic, but behind the soft furnishings and fluffy throws there's a creeping sense of unease.
They thought they were fighting for their relationship - will they end up fighting for their lives?
Seb is an asshole. Katie is an angel.
When Seb's night-time activity stretches their relationship to its limits, they couple decide to take a last-chance holiday to see if there's anything left to be fixed.
The cabin looked idyllic, but behind the soft furnishings and fluffy throws there's a creeping sense of unease.
They thought they were fighting for their relationship - will they end up fighting for their lives?
- GenresThriller
117 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2021
78 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
J.E. Rowney
39 books821 followersWriter.
Visit my website for previews, further information.
http://www.jerowney.com/
"I always dreamed of being a writer, until I realised that I was. Then I started to write."
Visit my website for previews, further information.
http://www.jerowney.com/
"I always dreamed of being a writer, until I realised that I was. Then I started to write."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
February 11, 2021
“Tell me what I have to do tonight,
‘Cause I’d do anything to make it right.
Let’s be us again.
I’m sorry for the way I lost my head,
I don’t know why I said the things I said.
Let’s be us again.
Here I stand,
With everything to lose.
And all I know is I don’t want to ever see the end.
Baby please, I’m reaching out for you,
Won’t you open up your heart and let me come back in?
Let’s be us again.
Oh, us again.
Look at me, I’m way past pride,
Isn’t there some way that we can try,
To be us again?
Even if it takes a while,
I’ll wait right here until I see that smile,
That says we’re us again.
Here I stand,
With everything to lose,
And all I know is I don’t want to ever see the end.
Baby please, I’m reaching out for you,
Won’t you open up your heart and let me come back in?
Let’s be us…
“Let’s Be Us Again” - Lonestar
Sebastien “Seb” Archer and “Katie” are a thirty-something couple living with their Labrador Dexter in the Harborough District of Leicestershire, England.
Years before, we learn, Seb and Katie were a new couple, crazy in love, and while basking in the glow of their passion and youth, they both decide to impulsively toss aside their careers to pursue their true passions.
For Katie, this meant stepping away from a job at a coffee shop to use her natural charm and desire to serve the “less fortunate” as a caregiver at a senior’s home.
Seb, for his part, chooses a much less conventional career change, going from a sales position in a soulless communications firm, to becoming a full-time professional gambler.
The years pass and Katie becomes less and less enthralled with her partner’s “lean months” of income, and even more distressing to her is his habit of breaking promises to her. One she associates with the man who has voluntarily chosen tot maker his living with games of chance.
As we read on, we learn that Seb and Katie’s relationship has deteriorated to the point that “conversational parrying” is the thing they do together most often.
The critical point comes when both realize that they are near the point of not return, and that now is the time to give their relationship one more chance. Time for a last-ditch effort vacation.
And what could be a better setting for a rebuilding vacation than a remote cabin in the majestic woods?
And what remote cabin better than one that is near the place where, eighteen years before, a villager named Annabel Harford and her daughter Audrey went out to pick berries…and were never seen alive again? It’s the Village of Culloton, a place where each of the locals is still haunted by the mystery from almost a generation before, the tragedy of the unexplained disappearances…and later confirmed deaths of the two. And most devasted is Annabel’s sister, Carla Frampton, a woman who named her pub “The Woman In The Woods” as a memorial to her late sister and niece. What better place for a couple to go to rebuild a relationship?
Well, that’s where Seb and Katie go to seek reconciliation, even though they know nothing of what was just mentioned above. They arrive, unaware of the history of this haunted place, out-of-towners toting their excessive baggage, both literal and symbolic, to find something they once had…something they both want back but are unsure how to get back to that place.
I loved this story for a number of reasons:
First, I came to like both Seb and Katie.
Each, no doubt, have their faults, Seb sometimes talks before he thinks, is prone to self-centredness and procrastination. But he’s also a man capable of love, a man who wants to find a way to become more than he is, and a man who is able to be honest with himself. He is curious and is open to trying new things.
Katie can be touchy, and she’s not above demanding to be continuously pampered while she pouts. But she desires love with this man, who is her opposite in many ways. She’s a good listener, and admirable trait in any person, and most of all, she is sensitive to the needs of others.
They are both basically good [people, both who could actually become even better people by drawing on each other’s strengths. They probably should be together…at least to my thinking.
Second, I must say, despite the economical word count of this novel, it was quite atmospheric and “daydream inducing.” In the days I read it, I found myself imagining the paths that twisted and turned through the woods surrounding the cabin.
But above all these things, I loved the slow-building suspense of this story. The author gently pulled us along, scene by scene, page by page, chapter by chapter, toward an unseen being…somewhere out there…
I enjoyed every single page of this novel and look forward to future titles by JER Rowney!
‘Cause I’d do anything to make it right.
Let’s be us again.
I’m sorry for the way I lost my head,
I don’t know why I said the things I said.
Let’s be us again.
Here I stand,
With everything to lose.
And all I know is I don’t want to ever see the end.
Baby please, I’m reaching out for you,
Won’t you open up your heart and let me come back in?
Let’s be us again.
Oh, us again.
Look at me, I’m way past pride,
Isn’t there some way that we can try,
To be us again?
Even if it takes a while,
I’ll wait right here until I see that smile,
That says we’re us again.
Here I stand,
With everything to lose,
And all I know is I don’t want to ever see the end.
Baby please, I’m reaching out for you,
Won’t you open up your heart and let me come back in?
Let’s be us…
“Let’s Be Us Again” - Lonestar
Sebastien “Seb” Archer and “Katie” are a thirty-something couple living with their Labrador Dexter in the Harborough District of Leicestershire, England.
Years before, we learn, Seb and Katie were a new couple, crazy in love, and while basking in the glow of their passion and youth, they both decide to impulsively toss aside their careers to pursue their true passions.
For Katie, this meant stepping away from a job at a coffee shop to use her natural charm and desire to serve the “less fortunate” as a caregiver at a senior’s home.
Seb, for his part, chooses a much less conventional career change, going from a sales position in a soulless communications firm, to becoming a full-time professional gambler.
The years pass and Katie becomes less and less enthralled with her partner’s “lean months” of income, and even more distressing to her is his habit of breaking promises to her. One she associates with the man who has voluntarily chosen tot maker his living with games of chance.
As we read on, we learn that Seb and Katie’s relationship has deteriorated to the point that “conversational parrying” is the thing they do together most often.
The critical point comes when both realize that they are near the point of not return, and that now is the time to give their relationship one more chance. Time for a last-ditch effort vacation.
And what could be a better setting for a rebuilding vacation than a remote cabin in the majestic woods?
And what remote cabin better than one that is near the place where, eighteen years before, a villager named Annabel Harford and her daughter Audrey went out to pick berries…and were never seen alive again? It’s the Village of Culloton, a place where each of the locals is still haunted by the mystery from almost a generation before, the tragedy of the unexplained disappearances…and later confirmed deaths of the two. And most devasted is Annabel’s sister, Carla Frampton, a woman who named her pub “The Woman In The Woods” as a memorial to her late sister and niece. What better place for a couple to go to rebuild a relationship?
Well, that’s where Seb and Katie go to seek reconciliation, even though they know nothing of what was just mentioned above. They arrive, unaware of the history of this haunted place, out-of-towners toting their excessive baggage, both literal and symbolic, to find something they once had…something they both want back but are unsure how to get back to that place.
I loved this story for a number of reasons:
First, I came to like both Seb and Katie.
Each, no doubt, have their faults, Seb sometimes talks before he thinks, is prone to self-centredness and procrastination. But he’s also a man capable of love, a man who wants to find a way to become more than he is, and a man who is able to be honest with himself. He is curious and is open to trying new things.
Katie can be touchy, and she’s not above demanding to be continuously pampered while she pouts. But she desires love with this man, who is her opposite in many ways. She’s a good listener, and admirable trait in any person, and most of all, she is sensitive to the needs of others.
They are both basically good [people, both who could actually become even better people by drawing on each other’s strengths. They probably should be together…at least to my thinking.
Second, I must say, despite the economical word count of this novel, it was quite atmospheric and “daydream inducing.” In the days I read it, I found myself imagining the paths that twisted and turned through the woods surrounding the cabin.
But above all these things, I loved the slow-building suspense of this story. The author gently pulled us along, scene by scene, page by page, chapter by chapter, toward an unseen being…somewhere out there…
I enjoyed every single page of this novel and look forward to future titles by JER Rowney!
December 10, 2021
This book was actually a surprisingly competent thriller until you paused to think about it. Which is to say, nicely written, with realistic characters, decent editing (only a small bunch of typos), etc. etc. All you’d want in a random kindle freebie, right?
Well, yes, but then…the message. And what is the message here? Save your relationship at all costs? Or is it that nothing mends a sh*tty relationship like kidnapping and violence?
Because when we first meet the main characters, affectionately nicknamed by each other as Pie and Bun-Bun, they are not happy. Buns gambles, like professionally for a living, Pie wants more Bun’s time. Bun’s a sarcastic jerk, Bun’s a ditzy idiot. Both are too stubborn to change their ways. In fact, outside of their sexual chemistry, there seems to be nothing holding their ship together. They are just aimlessly floating around, without sails, a map, or even a compass.
Yes, they have an adorable Labrador with a killer name, but is that ever enough?
So, naturally, they decide to save themselves by going on a vacation, which is, naturally, a remote cabin in the woods. The woods that are allegedly haunted by a ghost of a local woman who disappeared 18 years ago, hence the title.
At the cabin, Pie and Bun are still very much themselves, barely tolerating each other, while Bun is forcing himself to make effort after effort so that he can get some of that delicious Pie later.
It’s actually a properly fun dynamic, because both of the leads are such sh*ts, but the writer decides to cliché it all up for the popular appeal and throws them a chance to redeem themselves, which not only makes both Pie and Bun infinitely less interesting, but it makes the book less interesting. So much so that the underlying mystery doesn’t actually do much. And Pie and Bun’s lachrymose reunion and reaffirmation of their love is just trite and inane, effectively tanking all the potential of the story. But at least it’s short enough of a read.
Well, yes, but then…the message. And what is the message here? Save your relationship at all costs? Or is it that nothing mends a sh*tty relationship like kidnapping and violence?
Because when we first meet the main characters, affectionately nicknamed by each other as Pie and Bun-Bun, they are not happy. Buns gambles, like professionally for a living, Pie wants more Bun’s time. Bun’s a sarcastic jerk, Bun’s a ditzy idiot. Both are too stubborn to change their ways. In fact, outside of their sexual chemistry, there seems to be nothing holding their ship together. They are just aimlessly floating around, without sails, a map, or even a compass.
Yes, they have an adorable Labrador with a killer name, but is that ever enough?
So, naturally, they decide to save themselves by going on a vacation, which is, naturally, a remote cabin in the woods. The woods that are allegedly haunted by a ghost of a local woman who disappeared 18 years ago, hence the title.
At the cabin, Pie and Bun are still very much themselves, barely tolerating each other, while Bun is forcing himself to make effort after effort so that he can get some of that delicious Pie later.
It’s actually a properly fun dynamic, because both of the leads are such sh*ts, but the writer decides to cliché it all up for the popular appeal and throws them a chance to redeem themselves, which not only makes both Pie and Bun infinitely less interesting, but it makes the book less interesting. So much so that the underlying mystery doesn’t actually do much. And Pie and Bun’s lachrymose reunion and reaffirmation of their love is just trite and inane, effectively tanking all the potential of the story. But at least it’s short enough of a read.
January 24, 2021
Well, here we are. That Guy (reluctant salesman turned wannabe poker champ) is playing at happily ever after with The Love of His Life. Except Seb doesn't always quite treat or think of Katie (who is no saint herself) exactly like love-of-my-life material, and the relationship is on the rocks. She provides an ultimatum: a romantic week away with her, poker-free, or they call it quits. So off they go, to the cabin in the woods, on a Last Chance Holiday.
The trip begins with a deliciously eerie tone, and does not disappoint, weaving intrigue and darkness into a tale that's no longer a mere romantic drama-com. One thing that irked me a bit was that we were stuck in Seb's head the entire time, seeing things from his biased vantage point; while this provided great insight into his character (he is interesting enough that readers can stick with him) and it's commendably seamless without tripping into anyone else's POV, it does make some of the thought patterns and actions a bit repetitive and even predictable. Every interaction with Katie seems to be tinged with calculated intent (certainly on his end, and--according to him--also on hers). Also I wanted more things to happen to Katie, and not just him, and I wanted to see *her* character develop too. The relationship dynamics are overall intriguing, plausible, and sometimes endearing--especially when an exterior threat bounds these two people closer.
All in all, this is a very good story. While it can use another round of proofreading, the errors weren't glaring enough to distract me from the narrative. Rowney's signature style shines through in this book as it does in others: easy dialogue with a natural cadence and believable scenarios, the theme of a dysfunctional couple struggling to salvage their bond, a brisk pace and intriguing plot. She weaves in flashbacks and foreshadowing clues into the narrative masterfully, also keeping up an appropriate pattern of poker metaphors. It kept me steadily reading and engaged to the end.
Speaking of metaphors, a couple favorites:
"The sun is melting in the sky, turning it a pale orange shimmer. Katie has a round circle of blusher in our bathroom just that colour. It’s sunlight, but still, it feels cold."
"She’s like that witch in the fairy story that uses magic to make her look like a beautiful queen. Underneath, when she shows her true self, she’s gnarly and twisted. Just like me. Just like me."
The trip begins with a deliciously eerie tone, and does not disappoint, weaving intrigue and darkness into a tale that's no longer a mere romantic drama-com. One thing that irked me a bit was that we were stuck in Seb's head the entire time, seeing things from his biased vantage point; while this provided great insight into his character (he is interesting enough that readers can stick with him) and it's commendably seamless without tripping into anyone else's POV, it does make some of the thought patterns and actions a bit repetitive and even predictable. Every interaction with Katie seems to be tinged with calculated intent (certainly on his end, and--according to him--also on hers). Also I wanted more things to happen to Katie, and not just him, and I wanted to see *her* character develop too. The relationship dynamics are overall intriguing, plausible, and sometimes endearing--especially when an exterior threat bounds these two people closer.
All in all, this is a very good story. While it can use another round of proofreading, the errors weren't glaring enough to distract me from the narrative. Rowney's signature style shines through in this book as it does in others: easy dialogue with a natural cadence and believable scenarios, the theme of a dysfunctional couple struggling to salvage their bond, a brisk pace and intriguing plot. She weaves in flashbacks and foreshadowing clues into the narrative masterfully, also keeping up an appropriate pattern of poker metaphors. It kept me steadily reading and engaged to the end.
Speaking of metaphors, a couple favorites:
"The sun is melting in the sky, turning it a pale orange shimmer. Katie has a round circle of blusher in our bathroom just that colour. It’s sunlight, but still, it feels cold."
"She’s like that witch in the fairy story that uses magic to make her look like a beautiful queen. Underneath, when she shows her true self, she’s gnarly and twisted. Just like me. Just like me."
January 23, 2021
If an anticipated "Last Chance Holiday" is relied on to swiftly solve all relationship fractures--it probably won't.
If that tiny solitary village seems so quaint--beware.
If that stunning vacation cottage in the woods and its friendly arrogant owner seem too exotic to be true--doubly beware.
If your dog doesn't trust the owner--why would you?
Humans in prehistory possessed instincts, trustworthy ones. in what is laughingly termed "reptile brain" (amygdala) reside situational awareness, instincts that warn of danger, that elicit our endocrine system with wisdom to choose "fight or flight." Nowadays humans ignore the "reptile brain," overlook signs, omens, and clues, let inertia be their guide. Straight into danger they go, all unthinking.
I found this novel quite engrossing. That's especially surprising. While I delighted in the antics of the loyal. loving, Labrador Dexter, I scoffed at the push-me-pull-you machinations of the two self-centered humans, Seb and Katie. Yet I couldn't stop reading, couldn't stop racing through the pages, compelled to puzzle out what was going on: in the woods, in the exquisitely detailed cottage, in the quiet village, with the "odd" owner; and whatever is "in the woods?"
If that tiny solitary village seems so quaint--beware.
If that stunning vacation cottage in the woods and its friendly arrogant owner seem too exotic to be true--doubly beware.
If your dog doesn't trust the owner--why would you?
Humans in prehistory possessed instincts, trustworthy ones. in what is laughingly termed "reptile brain" (amygdala) reside situational awareness, instincts that warn of danger, that elicit our endocrine system with wisdom to choose "fight or flight." Nowadays humans ignore the "reptile brain," overlook signs, omens, and clues, let inertia be their guide. Straight into danger they go, all unthinking.
I found this novel quite engrossing. That's especially surprising. While I delighted in the antics of the loyal. loving, Labrador Dexter, I scoffed at the push-me-pull-you machinations of the two self-centered humans, Seb and Katie. Yet I couldn't stop reading, couldn't stop racing through the pages, compelled to puzzle out what was going on: in the woods, in the exquisitely detailed cottage, in the quiet village, with the "odd" owner; and whatever is "in the woods?"
April 12, 2021
I just loved this book once it got going - found initially the characters were a bit one dimensional but I continued past that. I would have liked more background as to the why - years ago, which is why I haven't given it a higher review.
I would be really interested in reading more books by this author.
I was given a free advance copy by the author and voracious readers and the review is unbiased
I would be really interested in reading more books by this author.
I was given a free advance copy by the author and voracious readers and the review is unbiased
February 25, 2021
Right from the start, Seb and Katie are thoroughly unpleasant people. Seb (the narrator) describes Katie as whiny and difficult, even though he also says she's an angel. He goes through convoluted thought processes to avoid conflict and apologises for offending her on nearly every page. He frequently describes himself as selfish, and sometimes acts accordingly. Their relationship is so miserable I wondered why they were even bothering with the last chance getaway.
Once they arrive at the cottage in the woods, tension builds slowly, supplied primarily by things heard and almost seen by Seb while walking Dexter the dog. Apart from a rather awkward evening at the local pub, that's pretty much all that happens until the final fifty pages, when action and revelations come thick and fast, leading to an abrupt conclusion. I can't say much more without spoilers, but some of the details of the denouement struck me as unlikely, both in the basic situation and the action sequences.
For a psychological thriller, background information about Katie and Seb is sparse. He plays poker professionally and she is a care aid, but there's nothing about his family or childhood, and only a few details about Katie's deceased mother. I did appreciate the way Seb relates his thinking and decision making to his poker strategies.
Despite the intriguing setup and a few chilling scenes, I found this book disappointing. I liked Seb's thought processes, and wondering what might happen to Dexter kept me reading. I did warm up to Seb by the end, but Katie left me cold.
Once they arrive at the cottage in the woods, tension builds slowly, supplied primarily by things heard and almost seen by Seb while walking Dexter the dog. Apart from a rather awkward evening at the local pub, that's pretty much all that happens until the final fifty pages, when action and revelations come thick and fast, leading to an abrupt conclusion. I can't say much more without spoilers, but some of the details of the denouement struck me as unlikely, both in the basic situation and the action sequences.
For a psychological thriller, background information about Katie and Seb is sparse. He plays poker professionally and she is a care aid, but there's nothing about his family or childhood, and only a few details about Katie's deceased mother. I did appreciate the way Seb relates his thinking and decision making to his poker strategies.
Despite the intriguing setup and a few chilling scenes, I found this book disappointing. I liked Seb's thought processes, and wondering what might happen to Dexter kept me reading. I did warm up to Seb by the end, but Katie left me cold.
May 27, 2021
Present Tense, Very Tense, Thriller
Seb and Katie have a dog called Dexter and a relationship that is on the rocks. That is not too surprising as Seb is a self-absorbed gambler, who views the relationship as being some kind of transactional, manipulative one and Katie is a demanding, self-absorbed individual too. She might work in a caring profession, but she clearly lacks empathy big time.
These two very flawed and not particularly pleasant folk decide to try a last chance attempt to revive their relationship - a holiday away in a cabin in the woods. But from the first, it is clear things are not what they seem...
This is a brilliantly and tensely told tale with some very unexpected twists and turns and some (much needed) character growth well worked in. The atmosphere is beautifully created and held throughout by the superb writing and wonderful descriptive ability of the writer.
But all that said, whilst I could admire the penmanship, I struggled to like this book for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, I felt no connection at all with Seb - who tells the tale in first person and disliked both him and Katie pretty much from the off. And secondly, it is written in present tense which I never find at all enjoyable to read as just when I'm starting to get into reading flow, it will pull me out again. I don't find it more immediate than past tense, I just find it irritating.
However, if you love tense thrillers in the present tense and can connect with Seb, this would be a superb read.
Seb and Katie have a dog called Dexter and a relationship that is on the rocks. That is not too surprising as Seb is a self-absorbed gambler, who views the relationship as being some kind of transactional, manipulative one and Katie is a demanding, self-absorbed individual too. She might work in a caring profession, but she clearly lacks empathy big time.
These two very flawed and not particularly pleasant folk decide to try a last chance attempt to revive their relationship - a holiday away in a cabin in the woods. But from the first, it is clear things are not what they seem...
This is a brilliantly and tensely told tale with some very unexpected twists and turns and some (much needed) character growth well worked in. The atmosphere is beautifully created and held throughout by the superb writing and wonderful descriptive ability of the writer.
But all that said, whilst I could admire the penmanship, I struggled to like this book for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, I felt no connection at all with Seb - who tells the tale in first person and disliked both him and Katie pretty much from the off. And secondly, it is written in present tense which I never find at all enjoyable to read as just when I'm starting to get into reading flow, it will pull me out again. I don't find it more immediate than past tense, I just find it irritating.
However, if you love tense thrillers in the present tense and can connect with Seb, this would be a superb read.
January 21, 2021
Because I have reviewed this author's work before I was offered to be part of her advance review team in exchange for an honest review. I must say this author knows how to write a great suspense story, even if it is short. Like I Can't Sleep I did not like the characters initially but as the story goes on they begin to grow on you. I am not one for stories about relationships or romance for that matter, but I am a sucker for a good suspense story and this one had it in droves. The author left very subtle hints that something sinister was in the woods and that's what kept me reading. I honestly didn't care if Seb and Katie saved their relationship or not, what is in the woods? For most of the story the only character I liked was Dexter, the dog. I did like that we got to look into the mind of Seb and know what he was thinking throughout the entire novel. We get to see how his mind alters towards his relationship with Katie and we see him gradually grow into a decent person and not an asshole as he likes to call himself. As like I Can't Sleep, the author leaves you with more questions than answers and you can't stop thinking about the outcome for hours later. Typically with most suspense novels you get all the questions answered, but not with Rowney, she likes to give you a great story and leave you to come to your own conclusions, I guess that's what real suspense is. Again a great novel by a great author!
February 1, 2021
Not finished it yet. The suspense is building as are my positive and negative feelings for the two main characters ie all positive how it has been written which subjects you easily into their world. Small negative and a wish that there was less personal background information of those two people ie I skip through their histories. Otherwise rushing it to get to the exciting bits!
Finished it a day later. I enjoyed the suspense of the story featuring a rather criticising pretty female and a confident man who happens to play poker for a living. Their relationship is mostly one of incompatibility evidenced by the small trivial things exacerbated by a need to be in charge. They have a dog for the wrong reasons who is a typical lab, lovable and a wants to please. He certainly adds to the excitement throughout the story. When the female going missing the excitement really builds and it becomes a page turner.
The ending is happy, which I like, even if a little far fetched. An enjoyable easy read
Finished it a day later. I enjoyed the suspense of the story featuring a rather criticising pretty female and a confident man who happens to play poker for a living. Their relationship is mostly one of incompatibility evidenced by the small trivial things exacerbated by a need to be in charge. They have a dog for the wrong reasons who is a typical lab, lovable and a wants to please. He certainly adds to the excitement throughout the story. When the female going missing the excitement really builds and it becomes a page turner.
The ending is happy, which I like, even if a little far fetched. An enjoyable easy read
January 20, 2021
I received an advance review copy from the author, and this review is my personal, honest opinion.
This story is quite different from other suspense thrillers that I have read, and that's definitely a good thing. I enjoyed the male protagonist, though I didn't like him much at first he quickly grew on me. I had to remind myself that this book is written from his perspective and point of view. Some of the things that I wanted to know more about I realised that Seb didn't care about. I think he actually is a selfish asshole (no spoilers intended).
I would recommend this quick, fresh read to anyone who wants a break from everyday life, and who likes mysteries/suspense thrillers. There is some (a fair bit of) bad language, but I think that's clear from the blurb! Liked this book a lot. Will check out more of Rowney's work.
This story is quite different from other suspense thrillers that I have read, and that's definitely a good thing. I enjoyed the male protagonist, though I didn't like him much at first he quickly grew on me. I had to remind myself that this book is written from his perspective and point of view. Some of the things that I wanted to know more about I realised that Seb didn't care about. I think he actually is a selfish asshole (no spoilers intended).
I would recommend this quick, fresh read to anyone who wants a break from everyday life, and who likes mysteries/suspense thrillers. There is some (a fair bit of) bad language, but I think that's clear from the blurb! Liked this book a lot. Will check out more of Rowney's work.
January 23, 2021
Two people vacationing in a cabin in an isolated woods...what could go wrong?
In the first few pages of the story, I disliked the character of Seb so much I almost quit. But I'm glad I didn't! I soon got caught up in the "fairy tale" like quality of the book, holding my breath for the impending danger I knew was headed their way.
While the relationship between Seb and Katie was strange, it did highlight the reason that they had elected to take this vacation - to help mend their relationship. But then, they each in turn want time alone...and that is their fatal mistake!
I would love to talk more about the events that follow, but that would be a spoiler. Suffice it to say that at about 40% in, Rowney amps up the suspense and never lets up.
Many thanks to J. E. Rowney and Book Funnel for an advance reader's copy for review. I would love to see more by this author!
In the first few pages of the story, I disliked the character of Seb so much I almost quit. But I'm glad I didn't! I soon got caught up in the "fairy tale" like quality of the book, holding my breath for the impending danger I knew was headed their way.
While the relationship between Seb and Katie was strange, it did highlight the reason that they had elected to take this vacation - to help mend their relationship. But then, they each in turn want time alone...and that is their fatal mistake!
I would love to talk more about the events that follow, but that would be a spoiler. Suffice it to say that at about 40% in, Rowney amps up the suspense and never lets up.
Many thanks to J. E. Rowney and Book Funnel for an advance reader's copy for review. I would love to see more by this author!
February 10, 2021
I was given a complementary copy of this book from the author through voracious readers only.
I read a lot of psychological thrillers and when I saw this in my email I thought I'd give it a go and I am glad I did.
However the first sentence started with the f word and it nearly put me off. Not because I'm a prude but I thought maybe it would be contemporary rubbish that wouldn't appeal to me. But it was a very good read.
It is quite a short book which i liked as I was able to read it over a few days. But I'm not going to go over the story as other reviewers have done that already.and it's as described by the author.
But it was easy to read, you could identify and recognise the characters. Except for the old village folk that still believed in ghosts.
Recommended and I will be reading books by J E Rowney again
I read a lot of psychological thrillers and when I saw this in my email I thought I'd give it a go and I am glad I did.
However the first sentence started with the f word and it nearly put me off. Not because I'm a prude but I thought maybe it would be contemporary rubbish that wouldn't appeal to me. But it was a very good read.
It is quite a short book which i liked as I was able to read it over a few days. But I'm not going to go over the story as other reviewers have done that already.and it's as described by the author.
But it was easy to read, you could identify and recognise the characters. Except for the old village folk that still believed in ghosts.
Recommended and I will be reading books by J E Rowney again
January 10, 2021
I loved this book. I was hooked from the first page. I loved the way the story is told from the perspective of the male character. It is fast moving and from early on you know there is something evil lurking, but all you have is questions. Once things go south all is revealed quite quickly, and wrapped up fast. It could have been scarier and more drawn out in my opinion, but I enjoyed it all the same, and finished it in one day.
October 1, 2021
The bickering between the couple is so realistic you wonder how they could stay together. Seb and his dog get into problems after the couple stay a vacation to a cabin in the woods. The characters in the small town are very interested, and the ghost story for the woman thought of the woods leads to a great story. The interactions with the troubled couple are realistic and interesting, and the end is surprising and satisfying. This is a good book and engrossing.
February 10, 2022
In The Woman in the Woods, Seb Archer and his girlfriend hope to revitalize their troubled relationship with a trip to a remote cabin. Things start to get a little weird as soon as they arrive, though — and not just because they seem to sincerely dislike each other. Before long, Seb is swept up in a local mystery-turned-legend surrounding the disappearance of a little girl some years before.
It is remarkable how easily Seb stumbles into and solves the mystery of the titular woman in the woods. At one point he remarks that he did it without even trying. Near the end, I honestly expected the antagonist to reveal that it was all a tourist trap, like a murder mystery dinner theater or something.
The back cover says that "Seb is an asshole," and, well, I agree. People who are only interested in playing poker don't sound like fun company anyway, but Seb also seems like he cannot stand his girlfriend Katie. He seems revolted by her. Everything he says to her is revealed in the first-person narration to be a carefully worded line meant to manipulate her or simply shut her up. And for her part, Katie isn't very fond of him either. She's sort of a simpleton who's quick to blame on Seb issues far outside his control and blows her top at the drop of a hat. Bottom line is that they don't seem to like each other, so most of the drama (and the Hallmark Channel resolution) between them feels forced.
Still, The Woman in the Woods is well written and has excellent pacing. While it's probably a little too convenient for most thriller fans, it's a mostly pleasant and breezy read.
I listened to this book via Audible—narrator did a fantastic job.
It is remarkable how easily Seb stumbles into and solves the mystery of the titular woman in the woods. At one point he remarks that he did it without even trying. Near the end, I honestly expected the antagonist to reveal that it was all a tourist trap, like a murder mystery dinner theater or something.
The back cover says that "Seb is an asshole," and, well, I agree. People who are only interested in playing poker don't sound like fun company anyway, but Seb also seems like he cannot stand his girlfriend Katie. He seems revolted by her. Everything he says to her is revealed in the first-person narration to be a carefully worded line meant to manipulate her or simply shut her up. And for her part, Katie isn't very fond of him either. She's sort of a simpleton who's quick to blame on Seb issues far outside his control and blows her top at the drop of a hat. Bottom line is that they don't seem to like each other, so most of the drama (and the Hallmark Channel resolution) between them feels forced.
Still, The Woman in the Woods is well written and has excellent pacing. While it's probably a little too convenient for most thriller fans, it's a mostly pleasant and breezy read.
I listened to this book via Audible—narrator did a fantastic job.
January 11, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Picked it up and read it in a day. We learn about Sebastian and Katie, a couple on the verge of breaking up, go on as a last ditch effort to save their relationship. But as a great story always goes, things go horribly wrong.
The relationship between Seb and Katie is brutally honest and interesting. There were some truly spooky moments that kept me on the edge of my seat. And of course one of my favorite additions to any novel, the dog. The relationship between Seb and Dexter is heartwarming. This is the second novel I have read by JE Rowney and I look forward to reading lots more! Excellent writer and I was honored to be an early reader for this book.
!!!!!!! SPOILER!!!!!!
I would love to see a future book from Audreys point of view as she readjusts to society. As we know from JE Rowney’s book I Can’t Sleep, she is great at writing about mental trauma.
The relationship between Seb and Katie is brutally honest and interesting. There were some truly spooky moments that kept me on the edge of my seat. And of course one of my favorite additions to any novel, the dog. The relationship between Seb and Dexter is heartwarming. This is the second novel I have read by JE Rowney and I look forward to reading lots more! Excellent writer and I was honored to be an early reader for this book.
!!!!!!! SPOILER!!!!!!
I would love to see a future book from Audreys point of view as she readjusts to society. As we know from JE Rowney’s book I Can’t Sleep, she is great at writing about mental trauma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
this book was good in the beginning i enjoyed it and honestly i think a lot of the plot was predictable so that wasn’t so bad and the suspense building up to the moment of the abduction was good as well but after that it kind of fell flat and bland, i was expecting more from the ending and possibly a plot twist but at least the characters get their desired happy ending so all in all it wasn’t terrible but there could have been more if this wasn’t your average “ghost story”. (spoiler: don’t know if this applies only to the ebook but there are spelling and grammar mistakes throughout so watch out for that!)
May 1, 2021
This book gets a 3.5 from me, I have a lot of good things to say about the story. I liked the premise; a couple getting away for the weekend, trying work on a relationship, two people trying to make things work together and the feelings of frustration and compromise with knowing they want to be together.
I liked when things went awry, the idea of a ghost in the woods, and the suspense and the back story of a missing child, and murder. Don't want to give too much away, but I liked the twists and turns along the way.
Would happily read other story by Rowney!
I liked when things went awry, the idea of a ghost in the woods, and the suspense and the back story of a missing child, and murder. Don't want to give too much away, but I liked the twists and turns along the way.
Would happily read other story by Rowney!
February 16, 2025
Easy to read thriller of a couple who want to repair a relationship by going away. Some of their dialogue drove me nuts
Weird creepy cabin out in the middle of nowhere .
Strange owner of cabin and area .
I expected it to be more of a suspenseful creepy book. That part only happened towards ending.
If you want fast read, this maybe good for you.
Weird creepy cabin out in the middle of nowhere .
Strange owner of cabin and area .
I expected it to be more of a suspenseful creepy book. That part only happened towards ending.
If you want fast read, this maybe good for you.
February 17, 2021
This was a good book but not great. I found the husband and wife to be very immature. Loved the dog!!
I did like the book and will definitely recommend it.
I did like the book and will definitely recommend it.
February 2, 2021
I enjoyed the premise of this book. Cabin in the woods. Hostile townsfolk. Ghost story. But the ghost story was underplayed and never resulted in any moments of suspense. Seb and Katie are also unlikable characters. Seb claims to be an asshole from the start. He just seemed indifferent and self centred. But then Katie was the same. Ending was meh...potential was there but not fleshed out enough.
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2022
The blurb is unequivocal about the main characters: Seb is an asshole. Katie is an angel. It turns out differently, so I fully agree with this part of the title: Forget everything you thought you knew.
The book is told from Seb’s perspective; we are really in his head, knowing every thought, and even the smallest sensation that stirs or torments him. In brief, he is a convoluted man with the vice of playing poker late in the night, not pleasant but not a devil either, having a strong dose of self-deprecating humor. His inner state fluctuates from trying to please his wife to making fun of her, the last happening always inside his mind. It’s difficult to say much about Katie – we see everything from Seb’s perspective after all – but she doesn’t feel a nice person either.
In the second half, there is some mystery, a disappearance, some thrill, but in the end, the best part of this novel is Seb’s inner whining monologue. The writing is good, because of the self-deprecating humor and an interesting eye for detail, and the text can be easily used for a show on stage.
The book is told from Seb’s perspective; we are really in his head, knowing every thought, and even the smallest sensation that stirs or torments him. In brief, he is a convoluted man with the vice of playing poker late in the night, not pleasant but not a devil either, having a strong dose of self-deprecating humor. His inner state fluctuates from trying to please his wife to making fun of her, the last happening always inside his mind. It’s difficult to say much about Katie – we see everything from Seb’s perspective after all – but she doesn’t feel a nice person either.
In the second half, there is some mystery, a disappearance, some thrill, but in the end, the best part of this novel is Seb’s inner whining monologue. The writing is good, because of the self-deprecating humor and an interesting eye for detail, and the text can be easily used for a show on stage.
February 17, 2021
The trip to the cabin was meant to be fun, a last chance for Seb and Katie to put their relationship back together. Seb tried to keep his baser instincts in check, he really did. He knew he was a jerk sometimes, but he was going to try to be better and remember all the reasons they got together in the first place.
Then they find out at the local pub that a woman and her child disappeared from the woods nearby. Katie is upset with Seb for not showing enough sympathy to the pub owner, since it was her sister who went missing. But Katie would have found something to be upset over anyway, and a little internet checking uncovers that the woman and daughter aren’t missing, they’re dead. The police recovered their bodies. It’s unfortunate, but nothing to do with them.
Until Katie goes missing as well…
***
It’s not a bad set up, but unfortunately, Katie doesn’t go missing until two-thirds of the way through the book. There’s nothing to read about until then except a lot of repetitive relationship details, and it wasn’t enough, at least not for me. If the first two-thirds of the book were cut in half, it would be a better read, IMO.
To balance that, there’s some nice description. I particularly liked this touch: Strands of ochre light leak between the shadow tendrils of trees.
And I won’t tell you exactly how the author does it, but all story threads are neatly tied off at the end.
Then they find out at the local pub that a woman and her child disappeared from the woods nearby. Katie is upset with Seb for not showing enough sympathy to the pub owner, since it was her sister who went missing. But Katie would have found something to be upset over anyway, and a little internet checking uncovers that the woman and daughter aren’t missing, they’re dead. The police recovered their bodies. It’s unfortunate, but nothing to do with them.
Until Katie goes missing as well…
***
It’s not a bad set up, but unfortunately, Katie doesn’t go missing until two-thirds of the way through the book. There’s nothing to read about until then except a lot of repetitive relationship details, and it wasn’t enough, at least not for me. If the first two-thirds of the book were cut in half, it would be a better read, IMO.
To balance that, there’s some nice description. I particularly liked this touch: Strands of ochre light leak between the shadow tendrils of trees.
And I won’t tell you exactly how the author does it, but all story threads are neatly tied off at the end.
February 7, 2021
First, I want to thank JE Rowney for providing me with this book so I may provide you with this review.
WOW!! JE Rowney has a gift for writing in Psychological Thrillers! The Woman In The Woods was very different from the other books I have read from her! Definitely one to put on your tbr list.
The graphics on the book were very mysterious and drew you into the book. It surely represented the theme of the book.
If you are a dog lover you are in for a treat as Dexter is a prominent character in The Woman In The Woods.
Fans of the paranormal world will be interested in this very fascinating story.
Her descriptions are very detailed and many times picturesque.
JE Rowney chooses a very unique career path for Seb in this book. He is a poker player and can read people extremely well. It was interesting to learn his backstory on how he met Katie and how they got to be where they were today.
What a rush from the out of the blue climatic twist to this book! It is full of mystery, missing persons, intense scenes, shocking revelations that have been hidden for years, and reunions. This is an ending that you will not see coming.
One thing that bugged me about the book were Katie’s and Sebastian’s nicknames for eachother. Sorry not sorry but I cringed every time I saw the name Pies and Bun Bun’s name being used.
WOW!! JE Rowney has a gift for writing in Psychological Thrillers! The Woman In The Woods was very different from the other books I have read from her! Definitely one to put on your tbr list.
The graphics on the book were very mysterious and drew you into the book. It surely represented the theme of the book.
If you are a dog lover you are in for a treat as Dexter is a prominent character in The Woman In The Woods.
Fans of the paranormal world will be interested in this very fascinating story.
Her descriptions are very detailed and many times picturesque.
JE Rowney chooses a very unique career path for Seb in this book. He is a poker player and can read people extremely well. It was interesting to learn his backstory on how he met Katie and how they got to be where they were today.
What a rush from the out of the blue climatic twist to this book! It is full of mystery, missing persons, intense scenes, shocking revelations that have been hidden for years, and reunions. This is an ending that you will not see coming.
One thing that bugged me about the book were Katie’s and Sebastian’s nicknames for eachother. Sorry not sorry but I cringed every time I saw the name Pies and Bun Bun’s name being used.
February 25, 2021
An interesting tale with a twist that took a lot of setting up. Some of the scenery descriptions were wonderful and you found out quite a bit about the characters, See and Katie, who go for a short break away in a secluded cabin in the woods to try to save their ailing relationship. Katie doesn't feel Seb is giving his all to the relationship and Seb feels that Katie is becoming annoying! It's a make or break chance!
The cabin is very spooky though and there are strange lines of dust around the woods. They then hear a tale in the local pub of a mother and daughter who went missing one day in the woods. The mother's body was found but the daughter's wasn't.
My reason for 4 rather than 5 stars was that I was slightly irritated by the characters and their reliance on pet names. At the end I was cringing every time they called each other Bon Bon or Pie! Maybe that was the point but it didn't get me onside!
The cabin is very spooky though and there are strange lines of dust around the woods. They then hear a tale in the local pub of a mother and daughter who went missing one day in the woods. The mother's body was found but the daughter's wasn't.
My reason for 4 rather than 5 stars was that I was slightly irritated by the characters and their reliance on pet names. At the end I was cringing every time they called each other Bon Bon or Pie! Maybe that was the point but it didn't get me onside!
February 20, 2021
A book from the male protagonist's POV that I really enjoyed even though Seb was just like the book blurb says ‘an asshole.’ Katie isn’t perfect either. The author made these characters flawed, and as the book progresses, they learn through their experiences. Although I am a cat person, I loved how the writer described Dexter’s character, the couple’s pet dog.
Seb and Katie are having problems, and in an attempt to save their relationship, they go on a holiday in a cabin in isolated woods. What follows is a suspense thriller. The author slowly builds the eerie setting and suspense and makes the readers hooked. When the couple visits a local pub, they learn about the disappearance of a woman and her three-year-old daughter in the woods, and that’s when the mystery starts.
The woman in the woods is a satisfying suspense read, and it kept me hooked right till the end.
Seb and Katie are having problems, and in an attempt to save their relationship, they go on a holiday in a cabin in isolated woods. What follows is a suspense thriller. The author slowly builds the eerie setting and suspense and makes the readers hooked. When the couple visits a local pub, they learn about the disappearance of a woman and her three-year-old daughter in the woods, and that’s when the mystery starts.
The woman in the woods is a satisfying suspense read, and it kept me hooked right till the end.
February 19, 2021
Gill Mather
I regret that I found this book predictable and contrived, to the extent that it’s set in ‘Wessex’ (which doesn’t actually exist) presumably so that the novel could include ‘Ooh-aah’ yokels propping up the bar at the village pub. Incidentally, films like this are usually spoofs or comedies, not serious suspense/horror stories.
A hundred pages of a couple bickering isn’t very interesting. Five to ten would have been enough for me.
The two main characters are very shallow and the pet names they give each other are nauseating. The woman Katie is clearly a prize bitch the reader is meant to dislike whereas the man, Seb, is too good to be true, taking the blame at every turn.
The writing style and some of the words used is/are somewhat Americanised. This would appear to be a transparent attempt to appeal to the US market but it makes it confusing for the reader and difficult in the first place to work out in fact whether the novel is set in England or some mythical place called Wessex in the US. It wasn’t until Seb mentioned ‘UK’ in relation to his job that I could be sure it was set in England. There was also reference to there not be many large animals in the wood and an earlier reference to bears, making one wonder about a US setting.
The other main thing I noticed was that contractions were largely absent from the narration, which is a large part of the book, and sometimes from the dialogue. Again it made me wonder about an American setting, though good American writing uses contractions normally. When they’re absent, it makes the speech seem quite robotic and a bit foreign, like an old gangster movie. For example, it would be usual to read 'I'm, he's, she’s, it’s…etc' rather than 'I am, he is, she is, it is…etc'. It was quite distracting and I had to force myself to ignore it.
There are quite a lot of typos and spelling mistakes too.
When it came to the actual crime, there was precious little detail about it, considering that a hundred pages had been devoted to the couple’s bad relationship. There were no forensic details at all, no mention of DNA being taken. One would especially have expected that DNA would be taken from the putative aunt and niece to make sure they were actually related. Seb pushed a crucifix into a man’s eye but the crucifix was never examined. Given that Seb was initially questioned as a suspect, one would have expected a thorough grilling, but the police interview was dealt with in the book in a rudimentary fashion; a couple of pages, against a hundred pages of bickering.
Within a short time of being involved in what was supposed to be such a harrowing incident involving the police, the couple are driving away back home, their relationship apparently magically repaired, like a fairy story.
We don’t find out if Mr. Cawcroft was in league with Blackheath, or why a person with so much to hide (some of which would have been easily discoverable a lot of the time for anyone walking through the woods, especially with a dog) would rent out a cabin in the grounds of his home to holiday-makers.
The whole thing was completely unrealistic and unbelievable and badly thought out. The painting of a scenario of suspense and pending horror was weak and unconvincing, though suspense and horror were clearly what the reader was expected to experience. Didn’t work.
I liked the dog, Dexter.
I regret that I found this book predictable and contrived, to the extent that it’s set in ‘Wessex’ (which doesn’t actually exist) presumably so that the novel could include ‘Ooh-aah’ yokels propping up the bar at the village pub. Incidentally, films like this are usually spoofs or comedies, not serious suspense/horror stories.
A hundred pages of a couple bickering isn’t very interesting. Five to ten would have been enough for me.
The two main characters are very shallow and the pet names they give each other are nauseating. The woman Katie is clearly a prize bitch the reader is meant to dislike whereas the man, Seb, is too good to be true, taking the blame at every turn.
The writing style and some of the words used is/are somewhat Americanised. This would appear to be a transparent attempt to appeal to the US market but it makes it confusing for the reader and difficult in the first place to work out in fact whether the novel is set in England or some mythical place called Wessex in the US. It wasn’t until Seb mentioned ‘UK’ in relation to his job that I could be sure it was set in England. There was also reference to there not be many large animals in the wood and an earlier reference to bears, making one wonder about a US setting.
The other main thing I noticed was that contractions were largely absent from the narration, which is a large part of the book, and sometimes from the dialogue. Again it made me wonder about an American setting, though good American writing uses contractions normally. When they’re absent, it makes the speech seem quite robotic and a bit foreign, like an old gangster movie. For example, it would be usual to read 'I'm, he's, she’s, it’s…etc' rather than 'I am, he is, she is, it is…etc'. It was quite distracting and I had to force myself to ignore it.
There are quite a lot of typos and spelling mistakes too.
When it came to the actual crime, there was precious little detail about it, considering that a hundred pages had been devoted to the couple’s bad relationship. There were no forensic details at all, no mention of DNA being taken. One would especially have expected that DNA would be taken from the putative aunt and niece to make sure they were actually related. Seb pushed a crucifix into a man’s eye but the crucifix was never examined. Given that Seb was initially questioned as a suspect, one would have expected a thorough grilling, but the police interview was dealt with in the book in a rudimentary fashion; a couple of pages, against a hundred pages of bickering.
Within a short time of being involved in what was supposed to be such a harrowing incident involving the police, the couple are driving away back home, their relationship apparently magically repaired, like a fairy story.
We don’t find out if Mr. Cawcroft was in league with Blackheath, or why a person with so much to hide (some of which would have been easily discoverable a lot of the time for anyone walking through the woods, especially with a dog) would rent out a cabin in the grounds of his home to holiday-makers.
The whole thing was completely unrealistic and unbelievable and badly thought out. The painting of a scenario of suspense and pending horror was weak and unconvincing, though suspense and horror were clearly what the reader was expected to experience. Didn’t work.
I liked the dog, Dexter.
February 12, 2021
When I started this book I wasn't sure if I would stick with it, mostly because I disliked the main characters so much. I don't mind if characters are unlikable , stories would be boring and unrealistic if you liked everyone! But these two just seemed so unsuited. everything is told through Sebs eyes and if he used 'whiny' to describe Katie's voice one more time...and also because it started off very slowly.
Still I persevered and I thought that overall it was pretty solid. A couple on the brink of breakup take a week long vacation to a cabin in the woods, already you can hear the ominous music playing. I do think that a weekend would have been a more realistic time fame, I guess Poker players can take off at the blink of a hat but rotas for Care work are done way in advance.
The surroundings were suitably pretty and creepy, including the very odd local pub, and strange characters, there are enough unusual things happening in the woods to put you on edge, dismissing as wildlife or rural noises until some more investigation is done. The story of a woman and her daughter going missing 18 years prior was decent, if told a little awkwardly and if you don't want spoilers skip the below. And end with this final note of a little more proofreading is in order but it doesn't detract from the story and it would be much more interesting to develop Katie's character more and either see her viewpoint or at least give her a better ending, it wrapped up a little too quickly I felt and there seemed to be no reason they would stay together.
SPOILERS
Katie goes missing, without the necklace she NEVER takes off, this never got a resolution, if she never takes if off there is no way she would be in such a rush to 'fix the wifi' that she doesn't put it on. The guy welcoming them to the cabin does introduce himself as Roman and i'm not sure that's ever cleared up (maybe I skipped over that). Once things pick up and Katie goes missing it feels like a little bit of a hot mess, there are definitely good parts to it, but the real Roman is more irritating than scary/sinister. Seb escapes the underground bunker very easily and gets away far quicker than I thought he would. His turning up at the pub and the call to the police sounds like an insane far fetched story and given that he doesn't seem to assist with the search made it a little unbelievable that the police would have actually found the bunker and the girl, especially once they found Katie just hanging out inside the Manor safely. Still it was a short novel and I think if all of that had been played out a little more slowly it could have built up to something big.
I found the ending wrapped up a little too quickly and easily but Katie didn't really seem to care that Seb had been through this experience at all. There didn't seem to be any real love or affection between them so i found I didn't care about their relationship or the outcome at all. Overall not a bad read but I get the impression from other reviews that some of the authors other works are stronger.
* I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review*
I personally don;'t thik the relationship is surviving. pr shoudl survive, depsoute the week break
Still I persevered and I thought that overall it was pretty solid. A couple on the brink of breakup take a week long vacation to a cabin in the woods, already you can hear the ominous music playing. I do think that a weekend would have been a more realistic time fame, I guess Poker players can take off at the blink of a hat but rotas for Care work are done way in advance.
The surroundings were suitably pretty and creepy, including the very odd local pub, and strange characters, there are enough unusual things happening in the woods to put you on edge, dismissing as wildlife or rural noises until some more investigation is done. The story of a woman and her daughter going missing 18 years prior was decent, if told a little awkwardly and if you don't want spoilers skip the below. And end with this final note of a little more proofreading is in order but it doesn't detract from the story and it would be much more interesting to develop Katie's character more and either see her viewpoint or at least give her a better ending, it wrapped up a little too quickly I felt and there seemed to be no reason they would stay together.
SPOILERS
Katie goes missing, without the necklace she NEVER takes off, this never got a resolution, if she never takes if off there is no way she would be in such a rush to 'fix the wifi' that she doesn't put it on. The guy welcoming them to the cabin does introduce himself as Roman and i'm not sure that's ever cleared up (maybe I skipped over that). Once things pick up and Katie goes missing it feels like a little bit of a hot mess, there are definitely good parts to it, but the real Roman is more irritating than scary/sinister. Seb escapes the underground bunker very easily and gets away far quicker than I thought he would. His turning up at the pub and the call to the police sounds like an insane far fetched story and given that he doesn't seem to assist with the search made it a little unbelievable that the police would have actually found the bunker and the girl, especially once they found Katie just hanging out inside the Manor safely. Still it was a short novel and I think if all of that had been played out a little more slowly it could have built up to something big.
I found the ending wrapped up a little too quickly and easily but Katie didn't really seem to care that Seb had been through this experience at all. There didn't seem to be any real love or affection between them so i found I didn't care about their relationship or the outcome at all. Overall not a bad read but I get the impression from other reviews that some of the authors other works are stronger.
* I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers Only in return for an honest review*
I personally don;'t thik the relationship is surviving. pr shoudl survive, depsoute the week break
January 24, 2021
Note: I received an ARC of this book so I can review it early and here it is!
This is a quick 2.5 stars read for me. It was ok, very middle of the road.
I kinda enjoy the beginning-middle bit where nothing really happened. It's the chill vacation vibe for me. I am often too lazy to go on vacation myself so I like reading about them. That's why I would bet I like ACOFAS (by Sarah J Maas) more than anyone else, ever, because nothing happened; it's just Christmas shopping and fun times.
Anyway, here are some things I don't like/kinda bothers me:
- The dog was being used as a plot device (idk if this is the right word or not) a lot.
- Seb, the main guy, is a really unlikable character. Katie is kinda one as well but less so.
- The relationship between them is a very cliched toxic relationship which you've seen many MANY times already.
- Everything is quite predictable (for example, )
- A lot of info was spoonfed to the readers. For example, right in the first paragraph is the author telling us Seb is an asshole. Please SHOW us that instead of TELLING us.
- Not really suspenseful/the tension building was not great.
Some additional thoughts/notes I have throughout the read. This book reads like an episode of Riverdale. They just have the same vibe to me, no offense to anyone. And also, (idk if that was a spoiler or not, putting the tag there just in case)
Context: I am a big scaredy-cat. The Haunting of Hill House (the show and the book), as much as I adore them both equally, gave me insomnia for weeks. And as a book that puts itself in the psychological thriller genre, I expect it to be scarier than this.
This is a quick 2.5 stars read for me. It was ok, very middle of the road.
I kinda enjoy the beginning-middle bit where nothing really happened. It's the chill vacation vibe for me. I am often too lazy to go on vacation myself so I like reading about them. That's why I would bet I like ACOFAS (by Sarah J Maas) more than anyone else, ever, because nothing happened; it's just Christmas shopping and fun times.
Anyway, here are some things I don't like/kinda bothers me:
- The dog was being used as a plot device (idk if this is the right word or not) a lot.
- Seb, the main guy, is a really unlikable character. Katie is kinda one as well but less so.
- The relationship between them is a very cliched toxic relationship which you've seen many MANY times already.
- Everything is quite predictable (for example, )
- A lot of info was spoonfed to the readers. For example, right in the first paragraph is the author telling us Seb is an asshole. Please SHOW us that instead of TELLING us.
- Not really suspenseful/the tension building was not great.
Some additional thoughts/notes I have throughout the read. This book reads like an episode of Riverdale. They just have the same vibe to me, no offense to anyone. And also, (idk if that was a spoiler or not, putting the tag there just in case)
Context: I am a big scaredy-cat. The Haunting of Hill House (the show and the book), as much as I adore them both equally, gave me insomnia for weeks. And as a book that puts itself in the psychological thriller genre, I expect it to be scarier than this.
January 11, 2021
A cabin in the woods is my idea of perfect weekend break.
So I'm off from work for the next 2 weeks. Since we can't really travel to far away places I guess a “book travels” are perfect replacement.
I got so excited when I got an email from J.E. Rowney who was looking for volunteers to read and review her new book “The Woman in the Woods”. The timing couldn't be more perfect.
I finished the whole thing in two sittings. The first half of the book wasn't too exciting but it definitely wasn't boring.
We're getting to know Katie, Seb and their dog Dex. The blurbs says that “Seb is an asshole”. Saying that Seb is an asshole is an understatement. I can't remember the last time I disliked the book character so much. The story is told from his perspective and even though he's such an knob this makes the book more interesting.
Katie is not “an angel” though. She definitely needs some “chill pill”. Is anybody supplying?
I can't find any fault in Dex, he's just a perfect guy.
Even though the beginning is a bit slow it's really worth reading through not so exciting part. At about half way through the book it's get better and better with every page. I was so engrossed that I didn't even notice when my boiled potatoes started to get a little bit smoky and turned into roasties. I mean... Who doesn't like a good roast potato to go with a Sunday roast? Win-win situation. So yes, this book is that gripping.
The cosy, relaxing holiday suddenly turns so dark and scary I was really worried about the little doggie. Not so much about Seb, even though he got himself in a bit of a pickle I would say. Well... To be honest he had rather a lot of pickles on his plate thanks to his loving girlfriend.
I won't say much more as I'm getting to emotional and don't want to spoil it for you.
The book will be out at the end of February but you can pre-order it and I advice you to do so.
So I'm off from work for the next 2 weeks. Since we can't really travel to far away places I guess a “book travels” are perfect replacement.
I got so excited when I got an email from J.E. Rowney who was looking for volunteers to read and review her new book “The Woman in the Woods”. The timing couldn't be more perfect.
I finished the whole thing in two sittings. The first half of the book wasn't too exciting but it definitely wasn't boring.
We're getting to know Katie, Seb and their dog Dex. The blurbs says that “Seb is an asshole”. Saying that Seb is an asshole is an understatement. I can't remember the last time I disliked the book character so much. The story is told from his perspective and even though he's such an knob this makes the book more interesting.
Katie is not “an angel” though. She definitely needs some “chill pill”. Is anybody supplying?
I can't find any fault in Dex, he's just a perfect guy.
Even though the beginning is a bit slow it's really worth reading through not so exciting part. At about half way through the book it's get better and better with every page. I was so engrossed that I didn't even notice when my boiled potatoes started to get a little bit smoky and turned into roasties. I mean... Who doesn't like a good roast potato to go with a Sunday roast? Win-win situation. So yes, this book is that gripping.
The cosy, relaxing holiday suddenly turns so dark and scary I was really worried about the little doggie. Not so much about Seb, even though he got himself in a bit of a pickle I would say. Well... To be honest he had rather a lot of pickles on his plate thanks to his loving girlfriend.
I won't say much more as I'm getting to emotional and don't want to spoil it for you.
The book will be out at the end of February but you can pre-order it and I advice you to do so.
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