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The Goners
On the quiet island of Boatmore, it was believed that there were only two causes of either natural or accidental. That is until a strange phone call, and a bloody handprint, leads Liam and his small team of paramedics to the body of a young man, still clinging to life, by the roadside. As they work to revive him, it becomes clear that whoever is responsible for such butchery does not want his victim to be saved. As the mysterious killer continues his spree, more chilling discoveries await our rescuers and the island residents find themselves tainted by suspicion and fear. So, grab the next ferry and witness THE GONERS, the first gripping chapter of ‘The Boatmore Butcher trilogy’.
- GenresHorror
121 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 26, 2021
I filmed a dedicated video review for this one which can be found here: https://youtu.be/8ETbYcUCols
In the meantime, I loved this book. I loved every single aspect of it: the ensemble cast of characters and their relationships/interactions with each other, I loved the chapters that we are seeing the killer stalk and attack his victims, I love the mystery, I love the author's writing style, I am addicted to the suspense, the thrill, the pure shot of adrenaline that came at just the right times throughout the story.
This book is on the shorter side of things (at least it's short to me, I'm used to reading 800+ page fantasy chunkers) so the ability L Stephenson had in that he made these characters so endearing to me, I was so invested in their lives and relationships. I cried over losses suffered, I cried at moments of joy and surprise - it was just fantastically written.
I love the representation given to us in this story. Actually, I love the way the author made these representations NORMAL. A female officer? Completely normal. Two young males meet and start dating? Absolutely normal. The other older adults look at this as cute, like when teenagers like each other and they're in that awkward stage of trying to figure out how to act around each other. Loved this.
Readers, this is a true crime horror story about a serial killer. The first in the Boatmore Butcher trilogy. It scared the pewp out of me and....well, I want more. I see we just got this one in March of this year, but I am about to die to get the next one in my hands. I love true life horror - that which could really happened, HAS happened.
If you have a KU subscription, PICK THIS ONE UP! You won't regret it. Well, you might regret not getting a good night's sleep the night you finish.....
In the meantime, I loved this book. I loved every single aspect of it: the ensemble cast of characters and their relationships/interactions with each other, I loved the chapters that we are seeing the killer stalk and attack his victims, I love the mystery, I love the author's writing style, I am addicted to the suspense, the thrill, the pure shot of adrenaline that came at just the right times throughout the story.
This book is on the shorter side of things (at least it's short to me, I'm used to reading 800+ page fantasy chunkers) so the ability L Stephenson had in that he made these characters so endearing to me, I was so invested in their lives and relationships. I cried over losses suffered, I cried at moments of joy and surprise - it was just fantastically written.
I love the representation given to us in this story. Actually, I love the way the author made these representations NORMAL. A female officer? Completely normal. Two young males meet and start dating? Absolutely normal. The other older adults look at this as cute, like when teenagers like each other and they're in that awkward stage of trying to figure out how to act around each other. Loved this.
Readers, this is a true crime horror story about a serial killer. The first in the Boatmore Butcher trilogy. It scared the pewp out of me and....well, I want more. I see we just got this one in March of this year, but I am about to die to get the next one in my hands. I love true life horror - that which could really happened, HAS happened.
If you have a KU subscription, PICK THIS ONE UP! You won't regret it. Well, you might regret not getting a good night's sleep the night you finish.....
July 28, 2021
The Goners was a home run for L. Stephenson. The cover was ominous, secretive, and forewarned of the threatening shadows that lurked beneath the surface. It’s the kind of story that will become etched into your mind and you can’t put the book down until that last page has been devoured. Stephenson is a master storyteller that envelops you in atmospheric brilliance and complexity that will literally tie you up in knots. His brilliance is his reader’s weakness, and The Goners did not disappoint.
This isn’t just another Horror – it is an experience. Set on the fictional island of Boatmore, we meet a Paramedic Liam and his team, with supporting roles from police officers, coroners, and their assistants. This is an incredibly raw and gritty horror novella. This is Stephenson’s debut and let me tell you, it doesn’t read like one, it is the start of an incredibly compulsive series. I was blown away by the author’s ability to create and develop characters in such a short time frame. The further you get into the story They become meatier, more fleshed out. Reading this book is like meeting a close friend after some time – you fall into relaxed camaraderie but there’s always something ebbing throughout like an undercurrent.
Stephenson has quickly skipped to the top in writers to watch out for, his ability to set the tone of the novel is second to none. There is no beating around the bush, he hits you with that block of wood until you start paying attention.
The Goners follows the Boatmore Butcher, a moniker for the serial killer that is targeting young men and leaving them to be found in strange circumstances. Life on the island is safe, deaths are usually a result of natural causes or an accident. It’s a great place to raise children, to grow old, and most importantly to feel safe. However, bloody handprints are found, strange phone calls are being left and bodies are turning up with no clue as to who committed the deed. The author excels in triggering your imagination – the atmosphere and landscape reel you in, he kick starts your imagination, and you either chase after it or get left behind.
The paramedics and the police need to get this one tied up quickly. Often, I felt like I was lost in a forest with this story – you know that feeling you get when you aren’t too sure whether you heard leaves and twigs being crunched underfoot? Are your eyes playing tricks on you or was that really a shadow up ahead? Stephenson loves to use the misdirection tactic in his playbook, and it was delivered with such perfection.
The Goners highlights in a spectacular debut just why readers are obsessed with true crime stories. Fiction doesn’t get any better than this. It boasts an engrossing storyline, and this is a devour-in-one-sitting must.
This isn’t just another Horror – it is an experience. Set on the fictional island of Boatmore, we meet a Paramedic Liam and his team, with supporting roles from police officers, coroners, and their assistants. This is an incredibly raw and gritty horror novella. This is Stephenson’s debut and let me tell you, it doesn’t read like one, it is the start of an incredibly compulsive series. I was blown away by the author’s ability to create and develop characters in such a short time frame. The further you get into the story They become meatier, more fleshed out. Reading this book is like meeting a close friend after some time – you fall into relaxed camaraderie but there’s always something ebbing throughout like an undercurrent.
Stephenson has quickly skipped to the top in writers to watch out for, his ability to set the tone of the novel is second to none. There is no beating around the bush, he hits you with that block of wood until you start paying attention.
The Goners follows the Boatmore Butcher, a moniker for the serial killer that is targeting young men and leaving them to be found in strange circumstances. Life on the island is safe, deaths are usually a result of natural causes or an accident. It’s a great place to raise children, to grow old, and most importantly to feel safe. However, bloody handprints are found, strange phone calls are being left and bodies are turning up with no clue as to who committed the deed. The author excels in triggering your imagination – the atmosphere and landscape reel you in, he kick starts your imagination, and you either chase after it or get left behind.
The paramedics and the police need to get this one tied up quickly. Often, I felt like I was lost in a forest with this story – you know that feeling you get when you aren’t too sure whether you heard leaves and twigs being crunched underfoot? Are your eyes playing tricks on you or was that really a shadow up ahead? Stephenson loves to use the misdirection tactic in his playbook, and it was delivered with such perfection.
The Goners highlights in a spectacular debut just why readers are obsessed with true crime stories. Fiction doesn’t get any better than this. It boasts an engrossing storyline, and this is a devour-in-one-sitting must.
July 30, 2021
Stephenson Wright's true Crime horror with the character work of an epic Fantasy novel. The blend of those two is perfect for lovers of true Crime podcasts or TV shows featuring murderers.
I can't say I've read many Thriller stories about a serial killer, so this one felt fresh but also had the classic feels of a noir style story. Overall I had a blast reading this fun true Crime Thriller. I would say my favorite chapters were either the serial killer selecting his next victim, or the chapters with the character you get to know pretty well Liam. I did take one star off due to in the beginning of the book it comes off a little info dumpy pertaining to the cast of characters. But In fairness this is a short novella and I can see why the author did what they did. The result of adding all this information to the characters did lead me to feel as if they were real people. And as a reader I find that that is a sign of good writing.
Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Horror ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing ⭐⭐⭐
Fun⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A little more about the plot is there is an island. On this island there is a killer and the remainder of the characters are trying to figure out who the killer is or trying to survive. I hate to circle back to the characters but this is really The shining aspect of this book. The way the police officers were written was believable and well done. I also appreciate it how the author normalized a same sex couple. All my friends that happened to be gay are just people who happen to be gay and that's kind of how the story read. I just think that's cool when they're just a couple because they like each other, that type of normalizing is exactly what fiction needs. I think that that shows an author who is grounded and very good at betraying real life situations and characters who are believable. There are some scenes towards the end that pull your heartstrings 📖 this book is part of a series and I look forward to the next installment.
I can't say I've read many Thriller stories about a serial killer, so this one felt fresh but also had the classic feels of a noir style story. Overall I had a blast reading this fun true Crime Thriller. I would say my favorite chapters were either the serial killer selecting his next victim, or the chapters with the character you get to know pretty well Liam. I did take one star off due to in the beginning of the book it comes off a little info dumpy pertaining to the cast of characters. But In fairness this is a short novella and I can see why the author did what they did. The result of adding all this information to the characters did lead me to feel as if they were real people. And as a reader I find that that is a sign of good writing.
Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Horror ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing ⭐⭐⭐
Fun⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A little more about the plot is there is an island. On this island there is a killer and the remainder of the characters are trying to figure out who the killer is or trying to survive. I hate to circle back to the characters but this is really The shining aspect of this book. The way the police officers were written was believable and well done. I also appreciate it how the author normalized a same sex couple. All my friends that happened to be gay are just people who happen to be gay and that's kind of how the story read. I just think that's cool when they're just a couple because they like each other, that type of normalizing is exactly what fiction needs. I think that that shows an author who is grounded and very good at betraying real life situations and characters who are believable. There are some scenes towards the end that pull your heartstrings 📖 this book is part of a series and I look forward to the next installment.
December 5, 2021
A Spectacular Debut!
I started this one yesterday and finished it last night. THE GONERS is lean, mean, and impressive. It didn't seem like a debut novel at all. I'm looking forward to reading more from Stephenson. Highly recommended!
I started this one yesterday and finished it last night. THE GONERS is lean, mean, and impressive. It didn't seem like a debut novel at all. I'm looking forward to reading more from Stephenson. Highly recommended!
January 5, 2022
This book was the perfect blend between horror, thriller and even a splash of fantasy in it.
In this town, kids have been disappearing...bodies have been dropping dead and the police have no clue that could point them in the right direction in order to find the killer.
The different characters and their relationships that start to unfold through each chapter was a fantastic way to get the reader engaged and rooting for the characters to solve the crimes.
With some nice bloody/gory moments as well as some cool police investigation bits this book will be perfect if you also love a good true crime story in a small town since it has all of those elements and vibes.
I will definitely be picking up the next books by the author.
In this town, kids have been disappearing...bodies have been dropping dead and the police have no clue that could point them in the right direction in order to find the killer.
The different characters and their relationships that start to unfold through each chapter was a fantastic way to get the reader engaged and rooting for the characters to solve the crimes.
With some nice bloody/gory moments as well as some cool police investigation bits this book will be perfect if you also love a good true crime story in a small town since it has all of those elements and vibes.
I will definitely be picking up the next books by the author.
March 21, 2021
Very rarely do I ever sit down to read a book and find myself finishing the book without taking a break or skimming through other books. Add “The Goners” to that very short list.
I can guarantee my review will do no justice for this book. The cover states it’s a debut Novel. It DOES NOT read like a debut novel.
Mark my words, this is a book you want to pick up and experience for yourself. L. Stephenson is a name you need to become familiar with right now.
The Goners is the first of what L. Stephenson is calling “The Boatmore Butcher” trilogy. Which means lucky for us there will be 2 more installments.
So here’s the set-up. We have a quiet Island named Boatmore. And the history of deaths on this island are believed to be either natural or accidental. It’s a safe Island. A place to have a family. Raise kids.
We have strange phone calls, bloody handprints and before you know it, bodies are starting to turn up. They look accidental but of course the book wouldn’t have been interesting with just a bunch of accidental deaths.
Oh, and these deaths are young. Young adults, teenagers.
We follow a paramedic named Liam and his team, along with the local cops, coroners, assistants. And all of these people start trying to tie things together and figure out what is happening.
What we get is a fast paced, dark thriller mystery all wrapped up in one brutal heart-wrenching story.
From the very first page, the pace of this book takes off and it doesn’t let up at all. The pedal is to the floor. This thing is redlining. This grabs you by the throat while punching you in your gut several times.
Stephenson has a list of characters, who all have a crucial part to the story overall. The setting is done marvelously. I felt like I was there on the Island trying to pitch in and help figure out who was doing the killings.
And the ending. WOW THE ENDING! Get ready to have your mind blown away. The last couple of chapters as the book is starting to wrap up, will have you on the edge of your seat, guaranteed.
I can't find anything wrong with this book. If this is a debut, I can't wait to see what we get from L. Stephenson 10 years from now.
I can guarantee my review will do no justice for this book. The cover states it’s a debut Novel. It DOES NOT read like a debut novel.
Mark my words, this is a book you want to pick up and experience for yourself. L. Stephenson is a name you need to become familiar with right now.
The Goners is the first of what L. Stephenson is calling “The Boatmore Butcher” trilogy. Which means lucky for us there will be 2 more installments.
So here’s the set-up. We have a quiet Island named Boatmore. And the history of deaths on this island are believed to be either natural or accidental. It’s a safe Island. A place to have a family. Raise kids.
We have strange phone calls, bloody handprints and before you know it, bodies are starting to turn up. They look accidental but of course the book wouldn’t have been interesting with just a bunch of accidental deaths.
Oh, and these deaths are young. Young adults, teenagers.
We follow a paramedic named Liam and his team, along with the local cops, coroners, assistants. And all of these people start trying to tie things together and figure out what is happening.
What we get is a fast paced, dark thriller mystery all wrapped up in one brutal heart-wrenching story.
From the very first page, the pace of this book takes off and it doesn’t let up at all. The pedal is to the floor. This thing is redlining. This grabs you by the throat while punching you in your gut several times.
Stephenson has a list of characters, who all have a crucial part to the story overall. The setting is done marvelously. I felt like I was there on the Island trying to pitch in and help figure out who was doing the killings.
And the ending. WOW THE ENDING! Get ready to have your mind blown away. The last couple of chapters as the book is starting to wrap up, will have you on the edge of your seat, guaranteed.
I can't find anything wrong with this book. If this is a debut, I can't wait to see what we get from L. Stephenson 10 years from now.
March 9, 2022
Short thriller/slasher/crime novella that feels like it's on speed dial. There were so many characters introduced throughout that I actually had to take notes & draw a map to follow along.
The part about the twins & their discovery totally creeped me out but I stayed brave for the rest of it.
I could totally see this story in a broader, more in-depth, more page count sort of way. If it was 300 pages with more character development rather than 120 it wouldn't have felt so rushed to me personally.
Definitely has some creepy feels and the foundation of the story is great. Ending leaves off for a sequel (I believe) and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
UPDATE: Now that I have read book#2 in this trilogy I have a much clearer understanding of the characters etc in this book. I will probably do a reread of The Goners & edit this review
The part about the twins & their discovery totally creeped me out but I stayed brave for the rest of it.
I could totally see this story in a broader, more in-depth, more page count sort of way. If it was 300 pages with more character development rather than 120 it wouldn't have felt so rushed to me personally.
Definitely has some creepy feels and the foundation of the story is great. Ending leaves off for a sequel (I believe) and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
UPDATE: Now that I have read book#2 in this trilogy I have a much clearer understanding of the characters etc in this book. I will probably do a reread of The Goners & edit this review
December 21, 2021
4.25 Stars
This was an excellent debut and I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel!
Stephenson has an ability to give you a lot of information in very few words so I found myself feeling like the characters were incredibly realistic even though we didn't spend much time on their development. The plot definitely has some heart racing moments that easily kept me captivated and I didn't expect that some things here would connect as seamlessly as they did so that was a very pleasant surprise!
My personal preference would be a few less descriptive moments of random objects or surroundings but I'm not a visual reader so that's an incredibly subjective thing. Also, if you're incredibly familiar with police or paramedic procedure, there might be moments that feel a tad unrealistic to you.
This was an excellent debut and I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel!
Stephenson has an ability to give you a lot of information in very few words so I found myself feeling like the characters were incredibly realistic even though we didn't spend much time on their development. The plot definitely has some heart racing moments that easily kept me captivated and I didn't expect that some things here would connect as seamlessly as they did so that was a very pleasant surprise!
My personal preference would be a few less descriptive moments of random objects or surroundings but I'm not a visual reader so that's an incredibly subjective thing. Also, if you're incredibly familiar with police or paramedic procedure, there might be moments that feel a tad unrealistic to you.
August 3, 2021
2.5 stars
Not my cup of tea but the ending gave me hope!
I won't be continuing in this trilogy but I am glad I gave it a shot. The writing had me confused until about half way through this already short novella about a string of murders happening on Boatmore island. There were 2 parts to each death. The part where they were hunted down by the killer and the part where the paramedics were trying to figure out what was happening.
The ending came out of left field imo, but then something else happened I was quite pleased by. Perfect for lovers of true crime podcasts or documentaries.
Not my cup of tea but the ending gave me hope!
I won't be continuing in this trilogy but I am glad I gave it a shot. The writing had me confused until about half way through this already short novella about a string of murders happening on Boatmore island. There were 2 parts to each death. The part where they were hunted down by the killer and the part where the paramedics were trying to figure out what was happening.
The ending came out of left field imo, but then something else happened I was quite pleased by. Perfect for lovers of true crime podcasts or documentaries.
May 9, 2021
This was a first for me in a few ways; this is the first slasher book I’ve read and also the first work of L. Stephenson and also a slasher horror set in the UK - bring it on!
I was impressed with the slasher element and it’s clear to see that Stephenson is a fan of the genre and knows it well - the conventions and tropes are all there, plus we also have the added depth of them being on this island - almost trapped to the whims of what is there, waiting!
Terrible things are afoot in Boatmore; at what first appears to be a murder, soon the body count begins - it appears to be unrelated but as more bodies turn up and Stephenson brings the book to its conclusion - we soon realise that things are a lot worse than what we or the residents of Boatmore first feared.
It’s a faced paced novella - full of deception, butchery and a lot of bloody hand prints - the characters are enjoyable and I especially enjoyed the lengths and the backstory that Stephenson gives to Liam - and out of all the characters this one for me stole the show.
I do have some issues with the book, but this might just be personal preference here, as I’ve read other reviews and they are all hyping ‘The Goners’ up - and it should be hyped, it’s good, it’s interesting and it’s a great debut.
But I did have issues with the sheer number of characters in this short novella - many of which were thrown at you from the outset (with long descriptions of what they looked like and what they were wearing) - and I have to say I really struggled working out who was who and what was what for about the first 30 or so pages of the book - it seemed like each chapter I was just given more names and people to juggle and I couldn’t keep them in my head. As because the chapters are short and sharp there didn’t appear to be time for them to grow on me - all except Liam.
But about page 60 (trust me I went back and checked) - these issues seemed to slide away as I tucked in to the fast paced thriller / slasher that Stephenson delivers - and it all builds to a very interesting, satisfying and full throttle ending!
A fun read.
A great introduction to a new writer who I’ll be checking out and supporting in the future!
I was impressed with the slasher element and it’s clear to see that Stephenson is a fan of the genre and knows it well - the conventions and tropes are all there, plus we also have the added depth of them being on this island - almost trapped to the whims of what is there, waiting!
Terrible things are afoot in Boatmore; at what first appears to be a murder, soon the body count begins - it appears to be unrelated but as more bodies turn up and Stephenson brings the book to its conclusion - we soon realise that things are a lot worse than what we or the residents of Boatmore first feared.
It’s a faced paced novella - full of deception, butchery and a lot of bloody hand prints - the characters are enjoyable and I especially enjoyed the lengths and the backstory that Stephenson gives to Liam - and out of all the characters this one for me stole the show.
I do have some issues with the book, but this might just be personal preference here, as I’ve read other reviews and they are all hyping ‘The Goners’ up - and it should be hyped, it’s good, it’s interesting and it’s a great debut.
But I did have issues with the sheer number of characters in this short novella - many of which were thrown at you from the outset (with long descriptions of what they looked like and what they were wearing) - and I have to say I really struggled working out who was who and what was what for about the first 30 or so pages of the book - it seemed like each chapter I was just given more names and people to juggle and I couldn’t keep them in my head. As because the chapters are short and sharp there didn’t appear to be time for them to grow on me - all except Liam.
But about page 60 (trust me I went back and checked) - these issues seemed to slide away as I tucked in to the fast paced thriller / slasher that Stephenson delivers - and it all builds to a very interesting, satisfying and full throttle ending!
A fun read.
A great introduction to a new writer who I’ll be checking out and supporting in the future!
June 13, 2021
If your idea of fun summer reading involves a serial killer laying siege to a sleepy British village (and mine most certainly does), add this book to your TBR!
This is a debut novel from L Stephenson (@l.stephensonauthor and WOW! It was a wild ride! It was short, intense and un-put-down-able. On the quiet island of Boatmore, there are usually only two causes of death - natural or accidental. Suddenly, one gruesome death is followed by another, then another and another. Chilling clues indicate that these deaths are all tied together. Liam and his partner, Martin, are seasoned paramedics that are in the process of training a new recruit. They're called to each scene only to find victims clinging to the last shred of life with no possible way of saving them. They've never seen anything like this on their island. Someone is stalking the teenagers of Boatmore and there is something about the deaths that feels very personal. This is a high-adrenaline slasher thriller - once it got cruising, it served up one twist and turn after another. I thought the deaths were very original and surprising, not a cookie cutter of the slasher genre but a really creative and thoughtful version. I gave it four stars - it took a little time to meet all the characters and get the background in place, which dragged for me just a bit. Otherwise, it was fabulous!
This is the first in a series called The Boatmore Butcher Trilogy. The debut really delivered, so I'll be looking forward to rest of the story. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is a debut novel from L Stephenson (@l.stephensonauthor and WOW! It was a wild ride! It was short, intense and un-put-down-able. On the quiet island of Boatmore, there are usually only two causes of death - natural or accidental. Suddenly, one gruesome death is followed by another, then another and another. Chilling clues indicate that these deaths are all tied together. Liam and his partner, Martin, are seasoned paramedics that are in the process of training a new recruit. They're called to each scene only to find victims clinging to the last shred of life with no possible way of saving them. They've never seen anything like this on their island. Someone is stalking the teenagers of Boatmore and there is something about the deaths that feels very personal. This is a high-adrenaline slasher thriller - once it got cruising, it served up one twist and turn after another. I thought the deaths were very original and surprising, not a cookie cutter of the slasher genre but a really creative and thoughtful version. I gave it four stars - it took a little time to meet all the characters and get the background in place, which dragged for me just a bit. Otherwise, it was fabulous!
This is the first in a series called The Boatmore Butcher Trilogy. The debut really delivered, so I'll be looking forward to rest of the story. Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 7, 2021
I casually buy debut novels from time to time and stumbled across this and thought I'd give it a whirl - it turned out to be quite the little gem.
To be honest, I wasn't expecting it to be as good as it was and I was blown away at the quality of how the book is written and the originality of the idea. The dialogue is great. The pacing and structure are succinct and can't be faltered.
If there's anything that can be said about the author, I reckon it would be that this guy knows a thing or two about horror and how to set up a scene, so much so, he could give King a run for his money! I thoroughly enjoyed the read and I look forward to the next installment so the author better hurry up and write it so I can find out what happens next!
To be honest, I wasn't expecting it to be as good as it was and I was blown away at the quality of how the book is written and the originality of the idea. The dialogue is great. The pacing and structure are succinct and can't be faltered.
If there's anything that can be said about the author, I reckon it would be that this guy knows a thing or two about horror and how to set up a scene, so much so, he could give King a run for his money! I thoroughly enjoyed the read and I look forward to the next installment so the author better hurry up and write it so I can find out what happens next!
April 9, 2021
Serial killer books scare me, most of all when they do a lot of creepy stalking, and this guy covers a lot of places to the point where you feel like nowhere is safe. I also cared about the victims. They weren't there just to be bumped off. The attention to detail is impeccable and the story grips you from the start. This was a really good read and I cannot wait for the other books in the series.
April 7, 2021
The curse of Boatmore is alive and well in this book.
I admittedly became very emotionally invested with this book. Sometimes it was mercilessly intense when certain characters were in danger. Even close to shedding a tear during those devastating moment. At some point, just over halfway through when all the pieces of the puzzle of this mystery are in place, this book just locked me in and took me on a wild, fun ride all the way to the very end. There was no time to catch my breath, and even then, it still took what breath I had left with its big twists.
I admittedly became very emotionally invested with this book. Sometimes it was mercilessly intense when certain characters were in danger. Even close to shedding a tear during those devastating moment. At some point, just over halfway through when all the pieces of the puzzle of this mystery are in place, this book just locked me in and took me on a wild, fun ride all the way to the very end. There was no time to catch my breath, and even then, it still took what breath I had left with its big twists.
October 3, 2021
PST!...
Nichi from the future here. Before you read this review I just need you to know, I currently have the house to myself tonight for the first time in I don't know how many years. Of course I decide this is the best time to catch up on my written reviews and I may be regretting that now! I keep seeing a figure at the end of my dark hallway from the corner of my eye. I can't help but feel that this may explain the unsettling feelings reading The Goners may give you. Not complaining, this just goes to show you the masterpiece that L. Stephenson created and if this alone doesn't say it all, I don't know what will. OH and I don't know how well I will be sleeping tonight... carry on!
I'm just going to say it.... I loved this read! .. I also absolutely adore the author, he is one of the best human beings around.
For most of my adult life, I have been very curious about serial killers. I mean, I'm someone that couldn't hurt a fly!... That's right! The person that is constantly saying sorry and going out of their way to make sure others are content and comfortable. So to know there are people out there that purposely plan to harm another human being or will go as far as murdering them, just leaves me in absolute silence. Quite honestly, can even cause me to tear up.
Yet, I can't help but find a fascination with what would make them do the things they do, what is so wrong in that head of theirs that they enjoy doing these awful things.
I always say the human brain is an incredibly powerful tool, but nothing stops it from being our own worst enemy.
L. Stephenson created this story of absolute fear!
Chapters filled with us, the reader, experiencing the killer stalking his prey. While other chapters are filled with characters you will grow to love and fear for.
Moments will have you holding your breath, silent, hoping they will be okay.
The Goners shows raw talent, it couldn't possibly be easy to dabble in the mind of a serial killer. Writing and creating these gruesome scenes and doing it so well!
I mean I truly believe realistic horror is some of the most terrifying horror you can find and this story will give you the absolute chills.
Just buy it, read it. You will see what I mean and then buckle up for book two, because it's coming!
Thanks for reading
-Dark
Nichi from the future here. Before you read this review I just need you to know, I currently have the house to myself tonight for the first time in I don't know how many years. Of course I decide this is the best time to catch up on my written reviews and I may be regretting that now! I keep seeing a figure at the end of my dark hallway from the corner of my eye. I can't help but feel that this may explain the unsettling feelings reading The Goners may give you. Not complaining, this just goes to show you the masterpiece that L. Stephenson created and if this alone doesn't say it all, I don't know what will. OH and I don't know how well I will be sleeping tonight... carry on!
I'm just going to say it.... I loved this read! .. I also absolutely adore the author, he is one of the best human beings around.
For most of my adult life, I have been very curious about serial killers. I mean, I'm someone that couldn't hurt a fly!... That's right! The person that is constantly saying sorry and going out of their way to make sure others are content and comfortable. So to know there are people out there that purposely plan to harm another human being or will go as far as murdering them, just leaves me in absolute silence. Quite honestly, can even cause me to tear up.
Yet, I can't help but find a fascination with what would make them do the things they do, what is so wrong in that head of theirs that they enjoy doing these awful things.
I always say the human brain is an incredibly powerful tool, but nothing stops it from being our own worst enemy.
L. Stephenson created this story of absolute fear!
Chapters filled with us, the reader, experiencing the killer stalking his prey. While other chapters are filled with characters you will grow to love and fear for.
Moments will have you holding your breath, silent, hoping they will be okay.
The Goners shows raw talent, it couldn't possibly be easy to dabble in the mind of a serial killer. Writing and creating these gruesome scenes and doing it so well!
I mean I truly believe realistic horror is some of the most terrifying horror you can find and this story will give you the absolute chills.
Just buy it, read it. You will see what I mean and then buckle up for book two, because it's coming!
Thanks for reading
-Dark
April 7, 2021
Being new to horror and crime novels, I wanted to start off with something short and sweet. And I was not disappointed! The cover is what first drew me in. And when I began reading I found it was well-written and had a nice flow to it. The writer keeps things interesting, and even when I thought I knew a part of the mystery, something more was revealed. I await part 2 of this murder trilogy with great anticipation.
July 1, 2021
From the very first sentence, this will grab you. If you like a serial killer, a hunt and a thrilling climax. This is the book for you. A rollercoaster ride, this book drags you through the mud and leaves you begging for more. Heart aching and draining but with moments that will shock you. It has its highs and they feel so needed as when the lows come you will be back in the mud looking for a way to dig yourself out. Not many books can offer such a journey. All the characters have their uses, the new guy Ben helping you to see how hard Paramedics work, Liam helps to give the team more depth and gives the story its lingering feeling of loss. Every small part holding the story together and necessary to the plot. A page-turner of the best kind.
March 23, 2021
My goodness. Who would have thought island life could be like this? It is a 'thriller' and a 'who done it' wrapped in a warped novel about a serial killer. The small island faces it's only killing spree. No one really knows how to deal with it. And the killer keeps hunting. Why? Read to the end and be blown away! So easy to get fully absorbed into the narrative. A novel worth reading. This is a blockbuster of a book.
July 1, 2021
This is a great book to read if you enjoy horror and books like Endless Night and Blood Games. But this is very different and has a great theme. Nothing can prepare you for the ending. I liked the paramedics being the main characters. The world needs more books with everyday heroes and using key workers as the good guys is a stroke of genius. This has gore, this has puzzles, this has twists and this has brilliant writing. What more could you ask for?
March 23, 2021
What can I say? This book is twisted in so many ways. Full of horror and creepy stalker killers. Hope being dashed over and over. This novel killed me off. Great ending... floored me! Sad and scary. I do not ever want to live on an island after reading this.
September 11, 2021
Review to come when I get my heart rate down.
July 29, 2021
A serial killer lives among you all on a small island. Except you don’t die from his hands but from the hands of those who are trying to save your life.
L. Stephenson has written a masterful serial killer novella that spikes your adrenaline as you live through the characters, their fears, their joys, and their sorrows. The scenes in which he describes the serial killer and his victims are truly compelling and chill you to the bone. The ending is spectacular! Looking forward to the next one in the series.
It’s a 4.5 star read only because I had a hard time grasping who was who in the beginning. I had to go back 2-3 times to confirm where the viewpoint was coming from.
L. Stephenson has written a masterful serial killer novella that spikes your adrenaline as you live through the characters, their fears, their joys, and their sorrows. The scenes in which he describes the serial killer and his victims are truly compelling and chill you to the bone. The ending is spectacular! Looking forward to the next one in the series.
It’s a 4.5 star read only because I had a hard time grasping who was who in the beginning. I had to go back 2-3 times to confirm where the viewpoint was coming from.
April 21, 2022
This was a miss for me. As someone with an emergency medicine background, I found this book a struggle to get through. I wish the author would have done some research into what it’s like being a paramedic or into some basic lifesaving skills/training. I just kept thinking that these characters have no clue what they are doing and it was driving me crazy trying to read through those scenes. Other then the poorly written paramedics, the rest of the book was OK. It did have an interesting setting and premise. I’m not sure if I’ll be picking up the next book in the series.
September 11, 2021
4 stars
This book was insane! But in the best ways possible. I really enjoyed my time with the short little horror novella. It’s full of the things that I love in a good horror stuff; horrific acts of violence committed against people you grow to know and love. And he managed to do it in a very short span of time! Not a perfect book by any means (some aspects seemed a little far fetched) but nonetheless I had a blast reading this book. Hopefully book 2 comes out soon!
This book was insane! But in the best ways possible. I really enjoyed my time with the short little horror novella. It’s full of the things that I love in a good horror stuff; horrific acts of violence committed against people you grow to know and love. And he managed to do it in a very short span of time! Not a perfect book by any means (some aspects seemed a little far fetched) but nonetheless I had a blast reading this book. Hopefully book 2 comes out soon!
February 26, 2023
Read through this book soooo quickly. Very much the fiction equivalent of a slasher film in the Scream mould, we have an isolated, island location, a cast of 3-dimensional people, all carrying baggage of one sort of another, a devious killer who puts his victims through truly horrible deaths, and that lingering mystery of who could be responsible for such horrors.
A real page turner, I left this one on my kindle for far too long, but was so glad I finally got to it. Great stuff!
A real page turner, I left this one on my kindle for far too long, but was so glad I finally got to it. Great stuff!
August 10, 2021
The Goners is a brilliant tale, told from a unique perspective of a team of paramedics. The deaths are violent, tense and bloody which I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters are well developed, you actually care what happens to the individuals involved and feel their pain when tragedy befalls them. I cannot wait to see more from L. Stephenson, especially more books in this series.
April 1, 2022
Wow. This book was so good and so fast-paced that I felt like I was constantly on the edge of my seat. Such a great ending, a wonderful set up for the next book. Welcome to Boatmore. A small island where no violence ever happens. There has never been anyone who died except by accident or illness. Never by violence… until now. Sooo good. I cannot wait for the next book!
June 27, 2023
This is slasher horror. It’s good, I think, for the genre; just not what I prefer to read. I read the paperback, which I borrowed.
October 5, 2022
It's definitely worth your time!
This quick paced novella has good pacing and character development. The writing is also well done. Great story and some nice twist and turns! Highly recommend!
This quick paced novella has good pacing and character development. The writing is also well done. Great story and some nice twist and turns! Highly recommend!
October 11, 2021
At this time of so much love for the NHS. It is nice to read about them being heroes, even though they are flawed ones. The paramedics that the story follows are trying to cope with a new type of horror. - Read my full review on my blog - simplyhonestreviews.webador.co.uk
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