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The App
The App...
Once you're in, they'll never let you leave.
Whatever happens, don't download The App.
* It will come in the form of a link. Maybe in your DM's on a social media account, the junk folder of your emails or a WhatsApp message from a friend.
* You'll be enticed by the chance of winning one hundred thousand pounds on offer every Friday, wired straight into the winner's bank account.
* It's not a joke.
* This part is genuine.
* Someone can and will win the money.
* But at what cost?
Marty Benson gets the link sent to him by a friend. So what is the harm in looking?
He clicks it, downloads the app and enters a few basic details.
A message prompts him to wait while he's loaded onto the system.
An hour later, another message.
• Do not delete the app.
• Do not tell anyone outside of your family about the app.
• Send the link to one person who is close to you.
* Do not throw your phone away.
* Always narrate while streaming.
• If you break any of the rules, we’ll kill a member of your family. Then we’ll kill you.
Marty is sent a picture of his wife, who is shopping with her mother in Oxford Street.
As Marty struggles to breathe, he clicks the links and watches the most recent streams, realising what happens within the
app.
Every Friday morning, a person is randomly picked from social media.
They now have a bounty on their head—a death warrant. But they don't know it.
Their profile appears on the app's main page; all their details are displayed.
Every app member must play the game at least once a month or face the consequences.
Kill the person randomly selected from social media.
Win one hundred thousand pounds.
As Marty watches the terror unfold and everyone streaming the hunt within the app, he realises he has to do something.
But how do you stop a murder, when everyone could be the killer?
Once you're in, they'll never let you leave.
Whatever happens, don't download The App.
* It will come in the form of a link. Maybe in your DM's on a social media account, the junk folder of your emails or a WhatsApp message from a friend.
* You'll be enticed by the chance of winning one hundred thousand pounds on offer every Friday, wired straight into the winner's bank account.
* It's not a joke.
* This part is genuine.
* Someone can and will win the money.
* But at what cost?
Marty Benson gets the link sent to him by a friend. So what is the harm in looking?
He clicks it, downloads the app and enters a few basic details.
A message prompts him to wait while he's loaded onto the system.
An hour later, another message.
• Do not delete the app.
• Do not tell anyone outside of your family about the app.
• Send the link to one person who is close to you.
* Do not throw your phone away.
* Always narrate while streaming.
• If you break any of the rules, we’ll kill a member of your family. Then we’ll kill you.
Marty is sent a picture of his wife, who is shopping with her mother in Oxford Street.
As Marty struggles to breathe, he clicks the links and watches the most recent streams, realising what happens within the
app.
Every Friday morning, a person is randomly picked from social media.
They now have a bounty on their head—a death warrant. But they don't know it.
Their profile appears on the app's main page; all their details are displayed.
Every app member must play the game at least once a month or face the consequences.
Kill the person randomly selected from social media.
Win one hundred thousand pounds.
As Marty watches the terror unfold and everyone streaming the hunt within the app, he realises he has to do something.
But how do you stop a murder, when everyone could be the killer?
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2022
259 people are currently reading
1418 people want to read
About the author
Stuart James
12 books619 followersAuthor of world wide number 1 best selling thriller, Turn The Other Way, and International Book Award Winner for The House On Rectory Lane.
Apartment Six was a number 1 new release for a month.
Stranded, released October 19th, 2020 on Amazon.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
What authors have said about my thrillers.
Caroline Mitchell, NY Times bestselling author of The Perfect Mother, The Secret Child and Truth And Lies: A great read packed with twists and turns.
John Marrs, author of The Good Samaritan and The Wronged Son: Fans of Mark Edwards will very much enjoy.
Definitely a writer to look out for.
Lisa Hall, author of The Party and Between You And Me: Tense and thrilling, with an ending you won’t see coming.
Jennifer Jaynes, USA Today bestselling author of Disturbed and Malice. Great job. Well crafted, deliciously twisty and kept me glued to the pages.
L A Detwiler, USA Today bestselling author of The Widow Next Door: The author is gritty, raw and dark in his writing. He is also extremely talented. I would highly recommend this read if you love a dark thriller in the same vein as Stephen King. My book of the month.
Natasha Harding from The Sun newspaper wrote about my thriller: A spooky read that will grab your attention from the very first page.
Published by Bloodhound Books.
Reviewers on Amazon and Goodreads have said Stuart James has written some of the scariest thrillers they’ve read in years.
I'm a new author recently published with Bloodhound Books.
My latest thriller, Turn The Other Way, went world wide number 1 on 5 platforms and has been chosen by Barnes And Noble as one of their top Halloween reads.
My other thriller, The House On Rectory Lane, has just won The International Book Award in horror fiction.
Apartment Six will be available 29th January 2020.
Stranded is released October 19th, 2020 on Amazon.
I live in Hertfordshire and am happily married with 2 wonderful children.
My twitter page is @stuartjames73
My website is stuartjamesthrillers.com
Apartment Six was a number 1 new release for a month.
Stranded, released October 19th, 2020 on Amazon.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
What authors have said about my thrillers.
Caroline Mitchell, NY Times bestselling author of The Perfect Mother, The Secret Child and Truth And Lies: A great read packed with twists and turns.
John Marrs, author of The Good Samaritan and The Wronged Son: Fans of Mark Edwards will very much enjoy.
Definitely a writer to look out for.
Lisa Hall, author of The Party and Between You And Me: Tense and thrilling, with an ending you won’t see coming.
Jennifer Jaynes, USA Today bestselling author of Disturbed and Malice. Great job. Well crafted, deliciously twisty and kept me glued to the pages.
L A Detwiler, USA Today bestselling author of The Widow Next Door: The author is gritty, raw and dark in his writing. He is also extremely talented. I would highly recommend this read if you love a dark thriller in the same vein as Stephen King. My book of the month.
Natasha Harding from The Sun newspaper wrote about my thriller: A spooky read that will grab your attention from the very first page.
Published by Bloodhound Books.
Reviewers on Amazon and Goodreads have said Stuart James has written some of the scariest thrillers they’ve read in years.
I'm a new author recently published with Bloodhound Books.
My latest thriller, Turn The Other Way, went world wide number 1 on 5 platforms and has been chosen by Barnes And Noble as one of their top Halloween reads.
My other thriller, The House On Rectory Lane, has just won The International Book Award in horror fiction.
Apartment Six will be available 29th January 2020.
Stranded is released October 19th, 2020 on Amazon.
I live in Hertfordshire and am happily married with 2 wonderful children.
My twitter page is @stuartjames73
My website is stuartjamesthrillers.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
March 13, 2023
This started out so good! The plot was really interesting and there could've been a lot of room for surprises or twists but it just fell flat right in the middle. I felt like reading two different books!
What would you do if you received a link saying that you could win a hundred thousand pounds? You'll probably get curious and see what's up, right? But, instead of getting the chance of a lifetime, you'll be signing your own death warrant. Pretty scary.
This was so promising. I felt the tension and hopelessness of the characters, the desperate attempt at survival, the dread in every moment as the clock ticks and the consequences of being one second away from death and destruction. But, the excitement died down because of the characters lack of depth and meaning, the pacing became repetitive and I just completely lost interest.
This kind of reminded me of "The Chain" by Adrian McKinty.
What would you do if you received a link saying that you could win a hundred thousand pounds? You'll probably get curious and see what's up, right? But, instead of getting the chance of a lifetime, you'll be signing your own death warrant. Pretty scary.
This was so promising. I felt the tension and hopelessness of the characters, the desperate attempt at survival, the dread in every moment as the clock ticks and the consequences of being one second away from death and destruction. But, the excitement died down because of the characters lack of depth and meaning, the pacing became repetitive and I just completely lost interest.
This kind of reminded me of "The Chain" by Adrian McKinty.
August 8, 2023
Action-packed! This dark, edgy thriller is perfect for fans of The Chain. Terrifying premise balanced by relatable characters you want to succeed. I was riveted till the very end!
November 1, 2022
This was a belter!
New author for me but I couldn't resist the premise! A unique take on the modern thriller genre, tapping into (pardon the pun!) Murder through technology!
The plot is non-stop action. It's creepy, disturbing and reminded me of The Chain by Adrian McGinty.
There are lots of characters and time frames to keep track of, which I found a little challenging at times, but they are well explained to help the reader follow without losing the pace.
I loved it, and will definitely look forward to more from this author!
New author for me but I couldn't resist the premise! A unique take on the modern thriller genre, tapping into (pardon the pun!) Murder through technology!
The plot is non-stop action. It's creepy, disturbing and reminded me of The Chain by Adrian McGinty.
There are lots of characters and time frames to keep track of, which I found a little challenging at times, but they are well explained to help the reader follow without losing the pace.
I loved it, and will definitely look forward to more from this author!
January 15, 2023
The App – Stuart James has got his feet well under the horror table with this visceral tale that will unnerve its readers. A book to make you deactivate EVERYTHING!
Never opening a link has never been as important as it is with The App.
Marty Benson receives a link to win 100k every Friday from his best mate. He’s not one to look a gift horse in the mouth and it’s come from his friend, Davey. He’s as straight as a dye so he knows it’s legit. Marty and his family have a comfortable life – nice house, reasonably well off, a daughter acing her studies and is to be expected to study law at university. Even so, no one is going to turn down 100k given the opportunity, right? RIGHT?
I actually got a spam link from a user on Instagram whilst reading The App and let me tell you – I’ve never yeeted my phone as far as I did. I’m never opening a link again.
Holy smokes this book was everything I’d been searching for in a Halloween read. I shit you not when I tell you that this book had me on the very edge of my seat for the entire read. Housework – I didn’t care for it. Preparing meals – there are plenty of crumbs under the sofa. Expecting guests – nope, the door is firmly locked. Nothing appealed but finishing The App. I wanted to race to the finish, but I wanted to savour it – this is a Stuart James special, he always leaves me feeling conflicted, and scared.
If you ever doubted that technology could be dangerous, put this book into their hands, stand back and watch the fear flit across their face.
James always takes the creep factor to the next level. He’s taken a relatively tame idea and transformed it so that its grown arms and legs to reach and choke you. He seems to have a handle on what his readers fear most, like a stalker in the night, you can’t shake the feeling of being watched. It’s quite terrifying to be in this author’s head.
The creator of the app POV was fascinating but make no bones about it – he’s a warped individual. It allowed the reader to have an even more accurate but frightening perspective of what was going on. The lengths he was willing to go to get his kicks were astonishing. James creates characters like this with military precision. He delves into the human condition and extracts the emotion locked within and you can’t help feeling connected to them – even if it’s to despise them. Something strange happened whilst I was reading this instant bestseller – the antagonist’s obsession became my obsession. I needed to know all the whys and when’s, I wanted to study it, and delve into the diminishing mind of the creator. I felt at points that I was sinking into quicksand with the veracity of the plot. Bloody brilliant.
Never opening a link has never been as important as it is with The App.
Marty Benson receives a link to win 100k every Friday from his best mate. He’s not one to look a gift horse in the mouth and it’s come from his friend, Davey. He’s as straight as a dye so he knows it’s legit. Marty and his family have a comfortable life – nice house, reasonably well off, a daughter acing her studies and is to be expected to study law at university. Even so, no one is going to turn down 100k given the opportunity, right? RIGHT?
I actually got a spam link from a user on Instagram whilst reading The App and let me tell you – I’ve never yeeted my phone as far as I did. I’m never opening a link again.
Holy smokes this book was everything I’d been searching for in a Halloween read. I shit you not when I tell you that this book had me on the very edge of my seat for the entire read. Housework – I didn’t care for it. Preparing meals – there are plenty of crumbs under the sofa. Expecting guests – nope, the door is firmly locked. Nothing appealed but finishing The App. I wanted to race to the finish, but I wanted to savour it – this is a Stuart James special, he always leaves me feeling conflicted, and scared.
If you ever doubted that technology could be dangerous, put this book into their hands, stand back and watch the fear flit across their face.
James always takes the creep factor to the next level. He’s taken a relatively tame idea and transformed it so that its grown arms and legs to reach and choke you. He seems to have a handle on what his readers fear most, like a stalker in the night, you can’t shake the feeling of being watched. It’s quite terrifying to be in this author’s head.
The creator of the app POV was fascinating but make no bones about it – he’s a warped individual. It allowed the reader to have an even more accurate but frightening perspective of what was going on. The lengths he was willing to go to get his kicks were astonishing. James creates characters like this with military precision. He delves into the human condition and extracts the emotion locked within and you can’t help feeling connected to them – even if it’s to despise them. Something strange happened whilst I was reading this instant bestseller – the antagonist’s obsession became my obsession. I needed to know all the whys and when’s, I wanted to study it, and delve into the diminishing mind of the creator. I felt at points that I was sinking into quicksand with the veracity of the plot. Bloody brilliant.
October 21, 2022
WOW and WOAHHHHHH 😎😀 here is a book for Halloween and beyond that wont just chill you but will freeze you with fright while reading it
Imagine you are sent a link….to an App…..offering you untold money…..it’s too tempting not to open….so you do…..and unleash a horrifying ‘game’ that asks you to murder…..and if you don’t those closest to you,well,they will be killed
I can’t remember a book making me shudder like this from the first chapters,it really is a baptism in fire for the story and so so well done,once you have read those chapters you will be hooked and unable not to carry on reading
Brilliantly written with intrigue building on each page and very much a ‘what would you do in this situation’ feel I can honestly say this book ‘got to me’ and will stay in my mind for a long time…..plus the fact I will never open a unsolicited link again
Have to give a mention to Ethel,a character who gave humour and light heartedness just when needed throughout
A brilliant read from the author
Imagine you are sent a link….to an App…..offering you untold money…..it’s too tempting not to open….so you do…..and unleash a horrifying ‘game’ that asks you to murder…..and if you don’t those closest to you,well,they will be killed
I can’t remember a book making me shudder like this from the first chapters,it really is a baptism in fire for the story and so so well done,once you have read those chapters you will be hooked and unable not to carry on reading
Brilliantly written with intrigue building on each page and very much a ‘what would you do in this situation’ feel I can honestly say this book ‘got to me’ and will stay in my mind for a long time…..plus the fact I will never open a unsolicited link again
Have to give a mention to Ethel,a character who gave humour and light heartedness just when needed throughout
A brilliant read from the author
November 24, 2022
My Rating System: 2⭐️⭐️ ticked very few boxes JUST NOT FOR ME!!
Once you’re in they never let you leave… download The App and you are immersed in a ‘killer’ game.
You might receive the link from a close friend… Don’t open it!
You might receive the link in your DMs …. Don’t open it!!
You might receive the link in an email from work… Don’t open it!!!
Who doesn’t want to win $100,000 pounds? It’s a a lot of money, it will change your life and all you have to do it click the link and download The App, what could be more simple… Don’t open it!!
The money is real but so is the very real risk to your family and the fact that your winning ticket is the price of murder!!
Do you open it???
The full synopsis gives you a proper run down of what you are in for and I suggest reading it to see if you are keen. I was absolutely keen on the idea of this book it sounded terrifying and right up my street. However, I am sitting alone on outlier island, stranded and alone because unfortunately for me this just wasn’t what I had hoped for. 😢
I am really disappointed that I didn’t enjoy this one because I feel terrible writing a low review. The author seems like a really great bloke who has obviously put a lot of time and effort into this book. He also replies to his fans which is really cool - so Stuart James if you do see this I am sorry that I didn’t love it but it just wasn’t for me. 🙈
The writing was engaging and I liked the style, it went back from different POVs and different timelines and anyone that reads my reviews knows I am a sucker for this so that was great. Unfortunately thats where the positives ended for me. 🤷♀️
I thought the book was quite repetitive and that took away from some of the creepiness - I felt like I read the same thing through everyone’s eyes so it was two or three times explained to the reader and I just didn’t need that level of detail for some things. 🫤
I also didn’t find this as creepy or scary as everyone made out… now thats probably got more to do with the amount of seriously f*cked up sh*t I read on the daily and less about the story but I was not scared. I unfortunately I am destined to continue clicking on unknown links until I am drawn into a murder club and that will serve me right for not being more terrified when I know I should have. 🤣
I am not going to go through each of the characters and the things I did and didn’t like about them as I think the synopsis really does cover enough and I don’t want to ruin it for everyone out there wanting to read it. I am really grateful that the book was available on Kindle Unlimited and again I wish I enjoyed it more but we can’t all like the same thing and someone has to hang out on outlier island clicking random links by themselves - it is me this time my friends!! 🏝😬
Once you’re in they never let you leave… download The App and you are immersed in a ‘killer’ game.
You might receive the link from a close friend… Don’t open it!
You might receive the link in your DMs …. Don’t open it!!
You might receive the link in an email from work… Don’t open it!!!
Who doesn’t want to win $100,000 pounds? It’s a a lot of money, it will change your life and all you have to do it click the link and download The App, what could be more simple… Don’t open it!!
The money is real but so is the very real risk to your family and the fact that your winning ticket is the price of murder!!
Do you open it???
The full synopsis gives you a proper run down of what you are in for and I suggest reading it to see if you are keen. I was absolutely keen on the idea of this book it sounded terrifying and right up my street. However, I am sitting alone on outlier island, stranded and alone because unfortunately for me this just wasn’t what I had hoped for. 😢
I am really disappointed that I didn’t enjoy this one because I feel terrible writing a low review. The author seems like a really great bloke who has obviously put a lot of time and effort into this book. He also replies to his fans which is really cool - so Stuart James if you do see this I am sorry that I didn’t love it but it just wasn’t for me. 🙈
The writing was engaging and I liked the style, it went back from different POVs and different timelines and anyone that reads my reviews knows I am a sucker for this so that was great. Unfortunately thats where the positives ended for me. 🤷♀️
I thought the book was quite repetitive and that took away from some of the creepiness - I felt like I read the same thing through everyone’s eyes so it was two or three times explained to the reader and I just didn’t need that level of detail for some things. 🫤
I also didn’t find this as creepy or scary as everyone made out… now thats probably got more to do with the amount of seriously f*cked up sh*t I read on the daily and less about the story but I was not scared. I unfortunately I am destined to continue clicking on unknown links until I am drawn into a murder club and that will serve me right for not being more terrified when I know I should have. 🤣
I am not going to go through each of the characters and the things I did and didn’t like about them as I think the synopsis really does cover enough and I don’t want to ruin it for everyone out there wanting to read it. I am really grateful that the book was available on Kindle Unlimited and again I wish I enjoyed it more but we can’t all like the same thing and someone has to hang out on outlier island clicking random links by themselves - it is me this time my friends!! 🏝😬
July 2, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The App by Stuart James
Read it, love it, then throw your phone in the ocean. Just to be safe.
Okay, real talk: I am never clicking a suspicious link again. Ever. Not for a giveaway, not for a prize, not even for 100K and a free air fryer. This book has ruined me in the best possible way.
The App is what happens when a "The Purge" marathon mixes with some true crime paranoia. The result? An absolute adrenaline-fueled nightmare that had me clutching my phone like it was a cursed object. Spoiler: it is.
The premise is brilliantly simple—and terrifyingly plausible. You get a message from a friend. “Hey, check out this app, you could win £100K on Friday!” You click. You enter a few details. You’re in. And then? Oh, just a casual threat that if you delete it or tell anyone, your family dies. No pressure.
This book taps into every modern fear: digital surveillance, dark web horror, and the very real fact that people will do anything for likes, streams, and money. The story moves at breakneck speed. One minute you’re following Marty’s quiet life, and the next you’re knee-deep in a techno-death game where the only rule is: participate… or perish.
I loved how sharp and relevant this was—finally, a horror novel that actually feels like it was written in this century. It’s not some dusty haunted mansion or ghost in the woods (though I still love those too)—this is horror for the TikTok age. It’s also surprisingly insightful about how casually we give up control to tech and how easily social media turns strangers into predators.
It’s still a modern day horror story, sure—but also a sharp little commentary on how casually we hand over our privacy, how social media manipulates us, and how easily tech could ruin us all. It’s not preachy, just… unsettlingly real.
The writing is tight, the suspense is relentless, and the whole thing builds to a satisfyingly brutal finale. Did I scream when my phone buzzed mid-read? I admit to nothing... but I would definitely read more by this author.
If you want something that’s part horror, part techno-thriller, and entirely addictive—The App is your next download. Just… you know. Read at your own risk. And maybe turn off your notifications first.
Read it, love it, then throw your phone in the ocean. Just to be safe.
Okay, real talk: I am never clicking a suspicious link again. Ever. Not for a giveaway, not for a prize, not even for 100K and a free air fryer. This book has ruined me in the best possible way.
The App is what happens when a "The Purge" marathon mixes with some true crime paranoia. The result? An absolute adrenaline-fueled nightmare that had me clutching my phone like it was a cursed object. Spoiler: it is.
The premise is brilliantly simple—and terrifyingly plausible. You get a message from a friend. “Hey, check out this app, you could win £100K on Friday!” You click. You enter a few details. You’re in. And then? Oh, just a casual threat that if you delete it or tell anyone, your family dies. No pressure.
This book taps into every modern fear: digital surveillance, dark web horror, and the very real fact that people will do anything for likes, streams, and money. The story moves at breakneck speed. One minute you’re following Marty’s quiet life, and the next you’re knee-deep in a techno-death game where the only rule is: participate… or perish.
I loved how sharp and relevant this was—finally, a horror novel that actually feels like it was written in this century. It’s not some dusty haunted mansion or ghost in the woods (though I still love those too)—this is horror for the TikTok age. It’s also surprisingly insightful about how casually we give up control to tech and how easily social media turns strangers into predators.
It’s still a modern day horror story, sure—but also a sharp little commentary on how casually we hand over our privacy, how social media manipulates us, and how easily tech could ruin us all. It’s not preachy, just… unsettlingly real.
The writing is tight, the suspense is relentless, and the whole thing builds to a satisfyingly brutal finale. Did I scream when my phone buzzed mid-read? I admit to nothing... but I would definitely read more by this author.
If you want something that’s part horror, part techno-thriller, and entirely addictive—The App is your next download. Just… you know. Read at your own risk. And maybe turn off your notifications first.
October 27, 2022
Holy smokes!!! I can't even describe how twisted this book was. So good. A brilliant idea that came to Stuart James mind was well written and drew me right in. My anxiety..oh my...
November 16, 2022
Was good for a quick read. I felt like it got a little slow and repetitive at times. I loved the whole concept of it, it just fell a bit flat at times for me personally. The ending was good - kind of came out of nowhere and had me say “oh shit” but it did feel a bit rushed.
February 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. Stuart James is defo in my top 10
January 16, 2023
Endless Night + Payphone = READ THE APP
So, after reading “The App”, I went out and bought as many Stuart James books as I could find. I’ve had Stuart on my TBR pile for some time and just never got around to him. What a hidden gem to find!
This is a very unique idea for a story tied into some morality tales about the way the world works today. Although there are some errors, typos, and some holes in logic, the story barrels ahead with great characters, exciting twists, and adrenaline pumping action. I enjoyed this so very much and dreaded having to stop reading for the day.
Just to give you an idea of what you are in for if you read “The App”:
Remember the movie “Pay Phone” with Colin Farrell? Mix that with “Endless Night” by Richard Laymon. If this is your kind of fun, you will have an absolute blast!
So, after reading “The App”, I went out and bought as many Stuart James books as I could find. I’ve had Stuart on my TBR pile for some time and just never got around to him. What a hidden gem to find!
This is a very unique idea for a story tied into some morality tales about the way the world works today. Although there are some errors, typos, and some holes in logic, the story barrels ahead with great characters, exciting twists, and adrenaline pumping action. I enjoyed this so very much and dreaded having to stop reading for the day.
Just to give you an idea of what you are in for if you read “The App”:
Remember the movie “Pay Phone” with Colin Farrell? Mix that with “Endless Night” by Richard Laymon. If this is your kind of fun, you will have an absolute blast!
January 27, 2023
Interesting idea. Terribly writing style, I'm sorry to say.
October 20, 2022
Where do I even start? If you fancy a scary read with Halloween coming up, then look no further than The App.
Someone that you trust sends you a link saying you can win one hundred thousand pounds every Friday by just entering some details - sounds simple doesn’t it.
Until later when a link comes through showing your loved one out shopping, cooking or on the sofa watching TV. You can’t delete the app or tell anyone outside of your family otherwise your loved one will die!
This story scared me, we can all click on a link in an app without really thinking. The story is tense and my heart felt as though it was trying to burst out of my chest!
Great characters, all believable and your every day folk. I loved Ethel, she had me snorting with laughter many times.
The author is a genius and as much as it scared me, I loved this book.
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my review.
Someone that you trust sends you a link saying you can win one hundred thousand pounds every Friday by just entering some details - sounds simple doesn’t it.
Until later when a link comes through showing your loved one out shopping, cooking or on the sofa watching TV. You can’t delete the app or tell anyone outside of your family otherwise your loved one will die!
This story scared me, we can all click on a link in an app without really thinking. The story is tense and my heart felt as though it was trying to burst out of my chest!
Great characters, all believable and your every day folk. I loved Ethel, she had me snorting with laughter many times.
The author is a genius and as much as it scared me, I loved this book.
My thanks to the author and Zooloo’s Book Tours for a copy in exchange for my review.
September 19, 2023
“They sat, their bodies tense, exhausted, watching Beth’s mobile filming the road ahead. ‘Would anyone like a mint humbug?’
‘Oh, for Christ’s sake, Ethel,’ Marty shouted.”
What a concept for a story! An app that essentially takes you hostage and forces you to murder innocent people. The lengths that the evil mastermind goes to are unbelievable, and I appreciate the background we get about how he became so twisted.
Following the victims, you’re on the edge of your seat, hoping they can find a way to evade the killers. First Cass & Ed, and then Benson family, hope seems futile…. Then they start to outwit the App, its Creator, & its Users! There were so many twists and turns, there was no way to guess all the surprises the author had written.
Overall, this was a fantastic, thrilling novel!
I friggen love Ethel!!!
‘Oh, for Christ’s sake, Ethel,’ Marty shouted.”
What a concept for a story! An app that essentially takes you hostage and forces you to murder innocent people. The lengths that the evil mastermind goes to are unbelievable, and I appreciate the background we get about how he became so twisted.
Following the victims, you’re on the edge of your seat, hoping they can find a way to evade the killers. First Cass & Ed, and then Benson family, hope seems futile…. Then they start to outwit the App, its Creator, & its Users! There were so many twists and turns, there was no way to guess all the surprises the author had written.
Overall, this was a fantastic, thrilling novel!
I friggen love Ethel!!!
January 9, 2023
So many major plot holes
The concept for the story is great, which is why I gave it two stars. But the execution is lacking - the glaring number of plot holes make the story a bit ridiculous. (They’re on the run, being hunted by people trying to kill them, but they stop at the daughter’s friend’s house to pick up her earbuds which she had accidentally left there. Really?? And that example is one of the minor ones.)
The concept for the story is great, which is why I gave it two stars. But the execution is lacking - the glaring number of plot holes make the story a bit ridiculous. (They’re on the run, being hunted by people trying to kill them, but they stop at the daughter’s friend’s house to pick up her earbuds which she had accidentally left there. Really?? And that example is one of the minor ones.)
October 19, 2022
A friend sends you a message with a link attached to an app offering you a chance to win/earn thousands of pounds!!!!!! Do you open it??? After reading this I know what I would do.
My heart was racing from start to finish and my nerves were shattered. I can't recommend this book highly enough, it's an outstanding read.
Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
My heart was racing from start to finish and my nerves were shattered. I can't recommend this book highly enough, it's an outstanding read.
Buckle up and enjoy the ride.
October 25, 2022
Wow, what a book, this is a fantastic psychological thriller that everyone should read as this author never disappoints me.
It us twisted, creepy and fast paced and very current as we all use mobiles and download apps.
I found myself recommending this book before I had even finished it as it was so good.
It us twisted, creepy and fast paced and very current as we all use mobiles and download apps.
I found myself recommending this book before I had even finished it as it was so good.
January 15, 2023
So most of us own a mobile, and most of us download apps. So what if you were sent a download to an app from a trusted friend that could potentially bag you a nice sum of money? Sounds good, and yes we all know that you "don't get 'owt for nowt" but all that is required is your name. Great, simple, but then after that, you get a message to say you are not allowed to delete the app, talk about the app or go to the police about the app otherwise a family member will be killed. As proof that they are not joking a photo of one of your family members is sent to you, it is recent, and when you look through the links you realise that this is not a joke. You will be expected to kill someone chosen randomly once a month or a member of your family dies.
I love the psychological taunt of this, the synopsis is brilliant at setting the sense of suspense, tension and dread as the realisation sets in for what is going to happen in this book. A simple app that will make you turn to murder. It sounds unbelievable but when the owner of the app seems to know everything about you and your family then things become serious. We are all aware of people being coaxed into doing things via social media, from the harmless little challenges to the awful and heartbreaking suicides. So, when a story like this comes up I always think to myself, this would never happen in real life. But would it? This is where a story like this works so well and the author has done an amazing job of creating an addictive and dangerous story that is much more than a simple game of cat and mouse.
This is a fabulous story and one that got under my skin, it does have a weird effect as you read it, it makes you think about what you use your phone for, how intrusive social media can be and how easy it is for hackers to get into accounts and manipulate data for their own ends.
A tense and action-filled thriller that starts off at a nice pace but then suddenly screams into a super fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat race against time to save the people that the main characters of the story care about the most. This really had me hooked to the point where I jumped feet and scared the poor dogs to bits when my own phone rang!!!
If you like a story with thrills, action, suspense, mystery and a few bodies, then this is going to be one for you. I adored it and would happily recommend it.
I love the psychological taunt of this, the synopsis is brilliant at setting the sense of suspense, tension and dread as the realisation sets in for what is going to happen in this book. A simple app that will make you turn to murder. It sounds unbelievable but when the owner of the app seems to know everything about you and your family then things become serious. We are all aware of people being coaxed into doing things via social media, from the harmless little challenges to the awful and heartbreaking suicides. So, when a story like this comes up I always think to myself, this would never happen in real life. But would it? This is where a story like this works so well and the author has done an amazing job of creating an addictive and dangerous story that is much more than a simple game of cat and mouse.
This is a fabulous story and one that got under my skin, it does have a weird effect as you read it, it makes you think about what you use your phone for, how intrusive social media can be and how easy it is for hackers to get into accounts and manipulate data for their own ends.
A tense and action-filled thriller that starts off at a nice pace but then suddenly screams into a super fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat race against time to save the people that the main characters of the story care about the most. This really had me hooked to the point where I jumped feet and scared the poor dogs to bits when my own phone rang!!!
If you like a story with thrills, action, suspense, mystery and a few bodies, then this is going to be one for you. I adored it and would happily recommend it.
October 24, 2022
Creepy …. Oh my word this really does bring the 21st century to the literary world!
Imagine getting a text with a link? We all get them right? Usually we look at them and class it as spam…. But this one is from a trusted friend saying there is a chance to win £100,000 every week, every Friday!
You’re not gonna not click on that link are you?
Reality soon kicks in when you realise this link to download an app now controls your life …. You can’t delete the app, you can’t talk about the app and you have to participate at least once every 4 weeks …
You have to kill? Or you and your family will die instead.
The characters in this book are relatable and you spend your entire time whilst reading this book second guessing what you would do in this position, and if you would follow the same path this family do to remove themselves from the horrible game they find themselves caught up in. Tensions are high throughout the book as they run the gauntlet of saving themselves and the ones they love as they are hunted by the money hungry and those desperate to keep their own families safe.
I’ve read a few books by Stuart James now and I highly recommend them if you have a liking for perverse, horror style books. I will now literally read anything Stuart writes as they are all fantastic
Imagine getting a text with a link? We all get them right? Usually we look at them and class it as spam…. But this one is from a trusted friend saying there is a chance to win £100,000 every week, every Friday!
You’re not gonna not click on that link are you?
Reality soon kicks in when you realise this link to download an app now controls your life …. You can’t delete the app, you can’t talk about the app and you have to participate at least once every 4 weeks …
You have to kill? Or you and your family will die instead.
The characters in this book are relatable and you spend your entire time whilst reading this book second guessing what you would do in this position, and if you would follow the same path this family do to remove themselves from the horrible game they find themselves caught up in. Tensions are high throughout the book as they run the gauntlet of saving themselves and the ones they love as they are hunted by the money hungry and those desperate to keep their own families safe.
I’ve read a few books by Stuart James now and I highly recommend them if you have a liking for perverse, horror style books. I will now literally read anything Stuart writes as they are all fantastic
January 25, 2023
I was disappointed in this book… the plot was good. However, there’s numerous grammatical errors. Sometimes the sentence structures didn’t really make sense AND characters kept repeating THE SAME THINGS. And I noticed in the book Shawn was later changed to Sean. The author misspelled his own characters name.. Also the characters were pretty flat. It’s almost like they had the same personality. The only one that was different in his speech pattern was Davey. Also, I felt like there was inappropriate humor or affection with the situation everyone was facing… several times Davey and Marty were hugging…? Like why, you guys are walking together on a stakeout. It didn’t make sense to me. And the humor was so cheesy. Like the book started out very serious and thrilling but it just evaporated and the story, the characters and the humor felt so forced. The first few chapters were literally the best part of the book.
October 24, 2022
I have thoroughly enjoyed all the books so far I have read from this author and this one didn't disappoint at all.
Very twisted and messed up, and a little bit creepy in places too - definitely a book you want to read if you are into fast paced storyline.
I know there are lots of my bookish friends that will absolutely love this book ❤️
Very twisted and messed up, and a little bit creepy in places too - definitely a book you want to read if you are into fast paced storyline.
I know there are lots of my bookish friends that will absolutely love this book ❤️
October 28, 2022
The App is one of those books that just panic’s you as you read, as with the time we live in this could happen! A great chilling read that kept me hooked the whole way through and keeps you on edge. Another great book from this author!
January 4, 2023
A scary thriller! Very enjoyable and a nice twist.
January 25, 2025
Finished this book in a day.
The concept of The App is you have to hunt a target to save your family and then get someone else to download it. It would fit in perfectly in a Black Mirror episode and I was instantly hooked.
The opening 50% was thriller/horror perfection where you get to see the extremes of how The App works as well as being given an insight into who is behind the creation of it.
After the 50% mark it takes a completely different direction which lost all the intrigue, tension and horror elements. I really did not enjoy the second half especially 2 characters who were there for comic relief that felt so unnecessary.
The concept of The App is you have to hunt a target to save your family and then get someone else to download it. It would fit in perfectly in a Black Mirror episode and I was instantly hooked.
The opening 50% was thriller/horror perfection where you get to see the extremes of how The App works as well as being given an insight into who is behind the creation of it.
After the 50% mark it takes a completely different direction which lost all the intrigue, tension and horror elements. I really did not enjoy the second half especially 2 characters who were there for comic relief that felt so unnecessary.
October 28, 2022
Brilliant!
Everyone is dubious of clicking links online these days, but what would you do if you received one from a trusted friend with the promise of winning £100,000.00? You might find yourself tempted like Marty or desperate like Davey! All I can say is, after reading this story, I don’t think I’ll ever want to click any links again!
What the characters in this book don’t realise is that by clicking the link they’re inadvertently downloading an app that will change their lives forever, or possibly end them! To win the £100k they must kill somebody who has been selected at random on social media. Don’t do it! I hear you say! Delete the app! Nope! That’s not an option here, because if you don’t take part then your loved ones will be killed – followed by you!
Yikes! This was a heart-stopper of a read at times! Stuart is an expert at creating a story that crosses the line from thriller to horror, yet he balances it out well with a bit of humour too, giving the reader plenty of suspense, scares and laughs!
This book is exactly like the kind of horror films I like to watch, the ones where you’re screaming at the characters not to do something or go somewhere, but they still do! I enjoyed all the characters in this book and I absolutely loved the comical conversations between Marty and his mother-in-law Ethel.
Squid Games meets Countdown! (the horror film not the game show!) This book has been released just in time for Halloween, so if you’re looking for a read that will spook you, then look no further!
Thank you so much to the author Stuart James for my copy of this book in exchange for an open and honest review.
Everyone is dubious of clicking links online these days, but what would you do if you received one from a trusted friend with the promise of winning £100,000.00? You might find yourself tempted like Marty or desperate like Davey! All I can say is, after reading this story, I don’t think I’ll ever want to click any links again!
What the characters in this book don’t realise is that by clicking the link they’re inadvertently downloading an app that will change their lives forever, or possibly end them! To win the £100k they must kill somebody who has been selected at random on social media. Don’t do it! I hear you say! Delete the app! Nope! That’s not an option here, because if you don’t take part then your loved ones will be killed – followed by you!
Yikes! This was a heart-stopper of a read at times! Stuart is an expert at creating a story that crosses the line from thriller to horror, yet he balances it out well with a bit of humour too, giving the reader plenty of suspense, scares and laughs!
This book is exactly like the kind of horror films I like to watch, the ones where you’re screaming at the characters not to do something or go somewhere, but they still do! I enjoyed all the characters in this book and I absolutely loved the comical conversations between Marty and his mother-in-law Ethel.
Squid Games meets Countdown! (the horror film not the game show!) This book has been released just in time for Halloween, so if you’re looking for a read that will spook you, then look no further!
Thank you so much to the author Stuart James for my copy of this book in exchange for an open and honest review.
December 15, 2022
Welcome to the killer app. There are three modes: the Hunter, the Hunted and the Spectator.
Imagine getting a link stating you could win 100k every Friday. The link is sent by someone close to you so you don't doubt the legitimacy of it.
There are rules:
1. Do not delete the app.
2. Do not tell anyone outside of your family about the app.
3. Send the link to one person who is close to you.
4. Do not throw away your phone.
5. Always narrate while streaming.
If you break any of these rules, a family member will be killed. Then you!
Marty Benson is sent the link by his best friend Davey. He fills out the form and is sent a photo of his wife and mother-in-law shopping. So he knows the threat is real!
The only way to keep her safe is to the game. Every Friday, a random person is selected to die. You get given clues to find their location. The first one to kill them wins. Don't participate? You die. Tell the police? A family member dies.
This fast paced thriller keeps you gripped until the very end!
November 5, 2022
Thank you @ZooloosBT @StuartJames73 for letting me review this book and being part of this tour. My Review The App is a great horror / Psychological book and did shock me in places what people would do to save there family. In is intense read and a page turner because you dont know what's going to happen to Marty and his Family. I really did not like Johnthan he is a horrible person. I felt like i went on rollcoster with them while they where trying to fight for there daughters life. This is the first book i have read by Stuart James and I will read more this is a brilliant gripping read. This is scary and fightening and the characters are great you can really feel there fear throughout the book. Hooked straight away 5 stars
January 27, 2023
I've never hated the words Kia Sorento before this book
The first have actually wasn't too bad. Interesting structure and plot. But then it goes completely off the rails.
-Characters all of a sudden are as dumb and helpless as a doorknob.
-Entire lines seem to be missing. Making for some confusing moments.
-And the worst of it all? They always refer to the car as the Sorento or Kia Sorento. So there are pages where it says this 3 or 4 times.
Like I said, good beginning..... and that's about it.
The first have actually wasn't too bad. Interesting structure and plot. But then it goes completely off the rails.
-Characters all of a sudden are as dumb and helpless as a doorknob.
-Entire lines seem to be missing. Making for some confusing moments.
-And the worst of it all? They always refer to the car as the Sorento or Kia Sorento. So there are pages where it says this 3 or 4 times.
Like I said, good beginning..... and that's about it.
October 29, 2022
Stuart always has me hooked from the first paragraph in every book he writes, this one is no different, is full of suspense and chills and I just can’t put it down. Hands down he is one of my favourite British authors and looking forward to his next book.
October 29, 2022
Fantastic!! I’m a huge fan of Stuart James. Loved every book he’s ever written. This one kept me up at night, gripping and page turning.
And if you learn one thing from this book, NEVER CLICK ON THE LINK!!!
And if you learn one thing from this book, NEVER CLICK ON THE LINK!!!
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