Dead Journal

by 1X?X3

After being abandoned at birth, Akuji is adopted into the Shepard family. Dr. Shepard can’t wait to raise Akuji. Mrs. Shepard would have rather picked any other kid from the orphanage. Life starts off well, but after the death of Dr. Shepard, Mrs. Shepard shows her true colors. 
Once he’s old enough, Akuji moves into his own apartment, where he continues his journey to become a professional journalist. He spends his Saturday nights running around his hometown of Remington, reporting on the evil that lurks in the shadows. It takes a long time, but Akuji’s patience pays off.
His weekly blogs are becoming more popular than he could imagine. Then one day he meets Mr. Mandark. The old man offers Akuji five stories to report on. According to Mr. Mandark, the stories are guaranteed to open every journalist door that exists.
Following the blog’s sinister theme, each week is more intense than the last. Akuji finds it hard to separate reality from fantasy. If he’s not careful, he could find himself in serious trouble, or even worse, dead. 

338 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published October 1, 2021

About the author

I write psychological-thriller novels and short stories. New books every October. Visit 1XBOOKSX3.COM

Reviews

[Tammy Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

So dark, but so good

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

With his sophomore novel, 1X?X3 takes you inside the mind of up-and-coming investigative journalist Akuji Shepard. As Akuji’s notoriety grows through his blogs, he feels the pressure to deliver even more chilling content to his devoted fans. Throughout the novel, I felt empathetic towards Akuji, yet also repulsed by some of his actions. This author is great at putting you inside the mind of his complex characters to provide a glimpse into their madness. And as promised, 1X?X3 pulls off another unforeseeable ending that left me astounded. You will NEVER see it coming!

[Michael Owings · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is the most memorable to me because of its relatability. It feels real. Also, it’s a uniquely written novel as it goes back and forth between the story written by the main character and the author.

[Alex Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another thriller. Messed up my day because I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one sitting. Looking forward to the next book by this author.

[1X?X3 1X?X3 · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the sophomore novel, 1X?X3 takes the terror up a notch. A true horror story of an innocent boy lost in this confusing world. It's a hard read to put down.