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According to Plan
Every woman has encountered that guy...
...the one who won’t take no for an answer.
Laura’s assistant Jared is obsessed with her, and after being fired he uses his newly free time to learn her routines. No matter how she says no, his advances keep getting bolder.
Laura soon realizes that the women she thought were friends are actually team Jared—he’s funny and likable while Laura is reserved. Of course they don’t believe that he is stalking her, and without a tangible threat, the police can’t help either.
Now, she has an elaborate plan to fake her death. When everything goes wrong, she finds herself lost in the forest, and her notes tell people not to look for her. But one person is looking for her. Jared’s formed a plan of his own and he is hunting her—to prove they were meant to be. By any means necessary.
...the one who won’t take no for an answer.
Laura’s assistant Jared is obsessed with her, and after being fired he uses his newly free time to learn her routines. No matter how she says no, his advances keep getting bolder.
Laura soon realizes that the women she thought were friends are actually team Jared—he’s funny and likable while Laura is reserved. Of course they don’t believe that he is stalking her, and without a tangible threat, the police can’t help either.
Now, she has an elaborate plan to fake her death. When everything goes wrong, she finds herself lost in the forest, and her notes tell people not to look for her. But one person is looking for her. Jared’s formed a plan of his own and he is hunting her—to prove they were meant to be. By any means necessary.
- GenresThrillerContemporary
289 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2022
7 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Erica Damon
22 books55 followersErica Damon is a writer, equestrian, and artist living in Western Massachusetts. Her compulsively creative nature has led to a collection of ‘what ifs?’ and that sense of wonder weaves its way into her fiction. She writes thriller and horror under her name, and equestrian romance under the pen name, Isla Ryder.
In any genre, her goal is to sweep the reader into her world, keeping it grounded enough in reality that the reader doesn’t question a moment of the action.
This is what she loves helping other authors with, as she has discovered that she enjoys reading books in the early stages even more than published ones and helping writers to spin their stories into something riveting as a developmental editor. If she’s not writing, she’s likely out riding horses while ideas swirl in the background.
In any genre, her goal is to sweep the reader into her world, keeping it grounded enough in reality that the reader doesn’t question a moment of the action.
This is what she loves helping other authors with, as she has discovered that she enjoys reading books in the early stages even more than published ones and helping writers to spin their stories into something riveting as a developmental editor. If she’s not writing, she’s likely out riding horses while ideas swirl in the background.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 19, 2022
It's one of those books that you swallow in one go. While Laura tells her story trying to be as logical and objective as she could be, Jared takes his scene like a real narcissist showing the whole spectrum of emotions. I enjoyed Jared's POV scenes the most. His thoughts were mesmerizing and all my arguments against him were handled with his logical-emotional assumptions. I know I will need to call my therapist, but Jared knew what to say. He was so charming like a real-life narcissist. I don't care if this effect was created because the author did her research it sounded like a real-life experience.
The well-crafted story shows how society supports those who have more charisma.
The well-crafted story shows how society supports those who have more charisma.
November 13, 2022
"I can't stay here. No one will help me, not even the police and I have to go." - Laura
He's smart, funny, outgoing, and "nice" but he doesn't take no for an answer. . . Laura's routine and life are soon disrupted by a man who couldn't understand no meant no. Everyone turning their backs on Laura and siding with Jared. . . She has one choice and one choice only. Leave!
Only the plan doesn't go well, and Laura may or may not be lost in the woods. She has to get away, get free from the obsessive man. Jared however will not allow that to happen. He MUST find her and prove they are meant to be together! She will believe him, and he will rescue her. RUN.
"I heard you like no one else. I saw you like no one else." - Jared
Love and hate are two sides of the same coin with a very thin line separating them. Love and hate can lead to obsessive behaviors. When you're in love with someone or involved with someone you want to know all about them. Their favorite foods, where they like to go, where they live, their phone number, etc. When you hate someone, you want to know their weaknesses and what makes them tick. . . This book showcases both sides of the coin.
"Pseudocide." I had to look up the word because I really wanted to know what it meant. When I looked up the definition, I knew this was going to get interesting fast. Laura has run out of options and has decided this is the way, to fake her death and disappear. Hoping to leave behind the one who wouldn't take no for an answer the one who everyone deems nice. Only even the most well thoughtout plans can go wrong. . .
The author out did herself with this book and all the details within it. It's very believable and you wonder just how likely this is to have happened. Erica clearly put in a lot of time, research, and effort into this read and I can tell. We've all dealt with someone who did not respect our boundaries and caused us to go from politely declining them to "rude". Firmly stating no and them brushing us off as the coldhearted one. . .
Or having a gut feeling about someone but everyone around you is too blinded by the person's mask to see what lies underneath. Assuming you are just overreacting or plain wrong. Always trust your gut even if others are saying the opposite.
I LOVED the duo POVs in this book, also really liked how when we switch from Laura to Jared the font for the chapter header changes. With Laura we get a third person POV aka "Laura, she, her". We get to step back and view her as she's struggling to win in this game of Cat and Mouse. While with Jared we get first person POV aka "I, me, my". I loved being inside of his head and reading through his internal monologue, almost felt like I was reading his journal. Because after reading the book, I know he would write very long and DETIALED entries.
I personally loved Jared, yes, I know I'm calling my therapist after I get done posting this. . . Jared's someone who has never been rejected before and when Laura does you see the thread beginning to fray. There are so many points that make it difficult to just utterly hate Jared. Yes, I know! I should hate him because he refused to respect Laura's boundary the moment, she said no. And then the other boundaries after that as he tried to "prove" how well they would work together.
Jared's a complex character and I enjoyed him so much. Even how Laura could see behind his mask and his anger that flared up occasionally. He truly cares about Laura and her wellbeing it's just a little warped. I loved this one scene in the book from Jared's POV at a bar and the irony of the scene. The Cat and Mouse game the two play throughout this book is intense and feels so real.
I loved the psychology of this book and how it causes thought provoking ideas. Even questioning if maybe I have read too many dark romances, or I'm just too far gone. . . But I really just loved how this book showcases love and hate. How love can toe the line with obsession and doing things you wouldn't normally do. Things that may be seen as politically incorrect but when you're in love even if it's a healthy, non-stalker relationship some things may cross the line.
This book is a dark, psychological suspense thriller! There are scenes dealing with a stalker, an unhealthy obsession, thoughts of suicide, some highly intense things toward the end of the book that may be triggering to some. I don't want to list out everything because some may be potential spoilers. But this is a game with unhealthy/toxic plans and plans of escaping.
There's language in the book and some scenes where one of the main characters has a couple of "self-gratification" moments. Mention of wanting more and some of the thoughts that come with that. Just hints, and the self-gratification moments are not detailed out and lengthy. Anxiety attacks and having to calm down from them are depicted on the page.
I could and want to keep going on about this book! But I know if I do, I will give too much away. I honestly want to see more of Jared and his background. What turned him into the person we get to read about with this book. I have a lot of respect for the author and how much research she put into this book. Love books that can cause such in-depth thought-provoking ideas. I want to read more from Erica because at the end of this read, I was speechless!
Now where did I put my therapist's number? Enjoy the suspense of this book and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
He's smart, funny, outgoing, and "nice" but he doesn't take no for an answer. . . Laura's routine and life are soon disrupted by a man who couldn't understand no meant no. Everyone turning their backs on Laura and siding with Jared. . . She has one choice and one choice only. Leave!
Only the plan doesn't go well, and Laura may or may not be lost in the woods. She has to get away, get free from the obsessive man. Jared however will not allow that to happen. He MUST find her and prove they are meant to be together! She will believe him, and he will rescue her. RUN.
"I heard you like no one else. I saw you like no one else." - Jared
Love and hate are two sides of the same coin with a very thin line separating them. Love and hate can lead to obsessive behaviors. When you're in love with someone or involved with someone you want to know all about them. Their favorite foods, where they like to go, where they live, their phone number, etc. When you hate someone, you want to know their weaknesses and what makes them tick. . . This book showcases both sides of the coin.
"Pseudocide." I had to look up the word because I really wanted to know what it meant. When I looked up the definition, I knew this was going to get interesting fast. Laura has run out of options and has decided this is the way, to fake her death and disappear. Hoping to leave behind the one who wouldn't take no for an answer the one who everyone deems nice. Only even the most well thoughtout plans can go wrong. . .
The author out did herself with this book and all the details within it. It's very believable and you wonder just how likely this is to have happened. Erica clearly put in a lot of time, research, and effort into this read and I can tell. We've all dealt with someone who did not respect our boundaries and caused us to go from politely declining them to "rude". Firmly stating no and them brushing us off as the coldhearted one. . .
Or having a gut feeling about someone but everyone around you is too blinded by the person's mask to see what lies underneath. Assuming you are just overreacting or plain wrong. Always trust your gut even if others are saying the opposite.
I LOVED the duo POVs in this book, also really liked how when we switch from Laura to Jared the font for the chapter header changes. With Laura we get a third person POV aka "Laura, she, her". We get to step back and view her as she's struggling to win in this game of Cat and Mouse. While with Jared we get first person POV aka "I, me, my". I loved being inside of his head and reading through his internal monologue, almost felt like I was reading his journal. Because after reading the book, I know he would write very long and DETIALED entries.
I personally loved Jared, yes, I know I'm calling my therapist after I get done posting this. . . Jared's someone who has never been rejected before and when Laura does you see the thread beginning to fray. There are so many points that make it difficult to just utterly hate Jared. Yes, I know! I should hate him because he refused to respect Laura's boundary the moment, she said no. And then the other boundaries after that as he tried to "prove" how well they would work together.
Jared's a complex character and I enjoyed him so much. Even how Laura could see behind his mask and his anger that flared up occasionally. He truly cares about Laura and her wellbeing it's just a little warped. I loved this one scene in the book from Jared's POV at a bar and the irony of the scene. The Cat and Mouse game the two play throughout this book is intense and feels so real.
I loved the psychology of this book and how it causes thought provoking ideas. Even questioning if maybe I have read too many dark romances, or I'm just too far gone. . . But I really just loved how this book showcases love and hate. How love can toe the line with obsession and doing things you wouldn't normally do. Things that may be seen as politically incorrect but when you're in love even if it's a healthy, non-stalker relationship some things may cross the line.
This book is a dark, psychological suspense thriller! There are scenes dealing with a stalker, an unhealthy obsession, thoughts of suicide, some highly intense things toward the end of the book that may be triggering to some. I don't want to list out everything because some may be potential spoilers. But this is a game with unhealthy/toxic plans and plans of escaping.
There's language in the book and some scenes where one of the main characters has a couple of "self-gratification" moments. Mention of wanting more and some of the thoughts that come with that. Just hints, and the self-gratification moments are not detailed out and lengthy. Anxiety attacks and having to calm down from them are depicted on the page.
I could and want to keep going on about this book! But I know if I do, I will give too much away. I honestly want to see more of Jared and his background. What turned him into the person we get to read about with this book. I have a lot of respect for the author and how much research she put into this book. Love books that can cause such in-depth thought-provoking ideas. I want to read more from Erica because at the end of this read, I was speechless!
Now where did I put my therapist's number? Enjoy the suspense of this book and don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
November 1, 2022
According to Plan by Erica Damon
Published: November 9, 2022
Erica Damon
Pages: 280
Genre: Thriller
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Erica Damon is a writer, equestrian, and artist living in Western Massachusetts. She calls herself compulsively creative, and that has led to a collection of ‘what ifs?’ in her back pocket. A self-directed degree from UMass Amherst Commonwealth Honors College furthered her exploration outside of the ordinary. That same sense of wonder weaves its way into her fiction. If she’s not writing, she’s likely out riding horses while the ideas swirl in the background.
“You can do this.”
Laura lives a routine life. Not exciting, but she’s going through the motions. When she hires a new assistant, she has high hopes that he will be a benefit to her work. Until he asks her out. And refuses to accept No as an answer.
This was such a scary book. The central theme is something that so many women have to deal with daily, and it is presented so powerfully here.
I loved Laura. You feel her fear, insecurity, self-doubt, and desperation. But you also feel her strength and determination. Jared was a terrifying character. Like most mediocre men, he has an inflated ego and feels better and more intelligent than everyone else.
The cat and mouse game was intense and so disturbing. The way the story unfolded was poetically traumatizing, but an accurate depiction of what infatuation can look like.
I devoured this story, unable to look away from the terror as it played across the page. This was beautifully written and so empowering. I love that Laura found herself and her strength when she needed to the most.
This was a powerful book, written in alternating perspectives, and it will captivate you from start to finish.
Published: November 9, 2022
Erica Damon
Pages: 280
Genre: Thriller
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Erica Damon is a writer, equestrian, and artist living in Western Massachusetts. She calls herself compulsively creative, and that has led to a collection of ‘what ifs?’ in her back pocket. A self-directed degree from UMass Amherst Commonwealth Honors College furthered her exploration outside of the ordinary. That same sense of wonder weaves its way into her fiction. If she’s not writing, she’s likely out riding horses while the ideas swirl in the background.
“You can do this.”
Laura lives a routine life. Not exciting, but she’s going through the motions. When she hires a new assistant, she has high hopes that he will be a benefit to her work. Until he asks her out. And refuses to accept No as an answer.
This was such a scary book. The central theme is something that so many women have to deal with daily, and it is presented so powerfully here.
I loved Laura. You feel her fear, insecurity, self-doubt, and desperation. But you also feel her strength and determination. Jared was a terrifying character. Like most mediocre men, he has an inflated ego and feels better and more intelligent than everyone else.
The cat and mouse game was intense and so disturbing. The way the story unfolded was poetically traumatizing, but an accurate depiction of what infatuation can look like.
I devoured this story, unable to look away from the terror as it played across the page. This was beautifully written and so empowering. I love that Laura found herself and her strength when she needed to the most.
This was a powerful book, written in alternating perspectives, and it will captivate you from start to finish.
January 22, 2023
This is a 10 star rating! This book.... holy hell!!! This book will have you lost from the real world and so tied up in the "real life" of this book! That is the one thing you have to watch with this book is how easily it sucks you in!
January 22, 2023
This book gives me “You” vibes! Creepy how real it felt at times. But a very quick read with a slow burn beginning and tension all throughout that will have you wondering what will happen next!
December 9, 2022
Everyone loves him- he's the popular new guy in the office. Always standing by with a smile or a joke or a box of donuts...Jared is great, just great, unless you're his boss Laura, the object of his creepy, pervy psycho obsession!! The notes, phone calls and visits really amp up when Laura gets him fired for cause. Jared has convinced himself that now that they are no longer co-workers, they can begin their new lives together. And he has a plan to make it all work out, if only Laura was willing. Suspenseful thriller!!
November 21, 2022
According to Plan is a suspenseful story, but it’s more than that. It’s a deep dive into a stalker’s mind. You’re getting a close-up of a sociopath, and it’s chilling.
Jared the stalker is not overtly anti-social, not by a long shot. In fact, he charms the socks off his new colleagues, but when his boss rebuffs his advances, he reveals his true colours.
The scenario is frighteningly real and utterly plausible. Many women have come across men like Jared who refuse to take no for an answer. The problem here is that no-one believes Laura. She has nobody to turn to and, get this, her colleagues side with him. Now, this is social commentary.
According to Plan is dedicated ‘To anyone who has had to say no more than once.’ Sadly, I’m not surprised if this covers a good chunk of the female population. That in itself is food for thought, and something we need to address as a society, as educators and parents.
The author has managed to craft a compelling story with insight and understanding, giving us well-drawn, true-to-life characters in utterly believable circumstances. Highly recommended.
Jared the stalker is not overtly anti-social, not by a long shot. In fact, he charms the socks off his new colleagues, but when his boss rebuffs his advances, he reveals his true colours.
The scenario is frighteningly real and utterly plausible. Many women have come across men like Jared who refuse to take no for an answer. The problem here is that no-one believes Laura. She has nobody to turn to and, get this, her colleagues side with him. Now, this is social commentary.
According to Plan is dedicated ‘To anyone who has had to say no more than once.’ Sadly, I’m not surprised if this covers a good chunk of the female population. That in itself is food for thought, and something we need to address as a society, as educators and parents.
The author has managed to craft a compelling story with insight and understanding, giving us well-drawn, true-to-life characters in utterly believable circumstances. Highly recommended.
November 14, 2022
Tense, gripping read that will give you chills!
I was given an ARC of "According to Plan" in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! The pacing is tight and moves at a steady clip. Everything that I read felt relevant and either moved the plot along or added to the mood. This book is written in dual-POV between the MC, Laura, and her stalker, Jared. The choice to switch between point of views between them-- 3rd omniscient for Laura and 1st for Jared-- was a unique one, but I feel it was used to great effect. Jared's voice as he went on his long, entitled, deranged diatribes was so powerful, creepy, and, for many women, way too familiar. I think his commentary throughout this book really takes it up to the next level, and Damon really nailed that voice. It was wonderful. I often found myself with goosebumps when reading his chapters.
Laura is a smart, active protagonist, and I loved seeing her arc as she went on both her emotional and literal journey. She doesn't always make the "correct" choice, but I was rooting for her from page one. Her story is the same as so many other women's, and I think that adds to the impact of the story. This story is not a fantastical one, and that makes it all the scarier. I wanted her plan to succeed, and I wanted her to be able to start her new life.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book! Damon really sold me on the interpersonal drama, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
I was given an ARC of "According to Plan" in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book! The pacing is tight and moves at a steady clip. Everything that I read felt relevant and either moved the plot along or added to the mood. This book is written in dual-POV between the MC, Laura, and her stalker, Jared. The choice to switch between point of views between them-- 3rd omniscient for Laura and 1st for Jared-- was a unique one, but I feel it was used to great effect. Jared's voice as he went on his long, entitled, deranged diatribes was so powerful, creepy, and, for many women, way too familiar. I think his commentary throughout this book really takes it up to the next level, and Damon really nailed that voice. It was wonderful. I often found myself with goosebumps when reading his chapters.
Laura is a smart, active protagonist, and I loved seeing her arc as she went on both her emotional and literal journey. She doesn't always make the "correct" choice, but I was rooting for her from page one. Her story is the same as so many other women's, and I think that adds to the impact of the story. This story is not a fantastical one, and that makes it all the scarier. I wanted her plan to succeed, and I wanted her to be able to start her new life.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book! Damon really sold me on the interpersonal drama, and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
December 18, 2022
This book was really good! I thoroughly enjoyed it! The edge of your seat action and the eerieness from being stalked to being lost in the woods had me having all the feels with Laura. I absolutely recommend this book. Well done!
Who doesn't like a good stalker story and Jared was good at it. Jared was very creepy, he was so obsessed with Laura. He was on the verge of becoming aggressive towards her. Laura was pretty strong at the beginning cause I would've been scared to death of him. When Laura finally gets tired of him, she decides to fake her own death. Not only because of him but he had a large part in it. She just wanted a new life. When she takes off, and starts on her way through a trail in the forest, I was on the edge of my seat, hoping she made it out alive. After all she did to get to this point, that would suck if that's how she died. So many things that could happen at the end: Does she Laura die and not get a new start, does Jared find her, or does Laura get to start her new life. Grab a copy and find out!
Who doesn't like a good stalker story and Jared was good at it. Jared was very creepy, he was so obsessed with Laura. He was on the verge of becoming aggressive towards her. Laura was pretty strong at the beginning cause I would've been scared to death of him. When Laura finally gets tired of him, she decides to fake her own death. Not only because of him but he had a large part in it. She just wanted a new life. When she takes off, and starts on her way through a trail in the forest, I was on the edge of my seat, hoping she made it out alive. After all she did to get to this point, that would suck if that's how she died. So many things that could happen at the end: Does she Laura die and not get a new start, does Jared find her, or does Laura get to start her new life. Grab a copy and find out!
January 26, 2023
Heart Pounding Suspense
After Laura experiences inappropriate behaviour from Jared at work which gets him sacked he begins a relentless stalking campaign. To get a away from it all Laura feels the only way to stop it all is to fake her death and start a new life somewhere else. It doesn’t all go according to plan though. On the run, Jared finally catches up with her and abducts her. She now has to fight for survival but will her fake death turn real? Both characters are well developed. Jared is brilliantly creepy as the delusional stalker that believes whatever Laura is doing is for the betterment of their non existent relationship. The stalking aside, there seems to be something else of about Laura but you don’t know what. It keeps you guessing which is what makes this such a great psychological thriller. A great novel that I recommend to anybody who is into suspense and psychological thriller. My only criticism (and why I have given it 4 stars instead of 5) is I wish there had been more dialogue.
After Laura experiences inappropriate behaviour from Jared at work which gets him sacked he begins a relentless stalking campaign. To get a away from it all Laura feels the only way to stop it all is to fake her death and start a new life somewhere else. It doesn’t all go according to plan though. On the run, Jared finally catches up with her and abducts her. She now has to fight for survival but will her fake death turn real? Both characters are well developed. Jared is brilliantly creepy as the delusional stalker that believes whatever Laura is doing is for the betterment of their non existent relationship. The stalking aside, there seems to be something else of about Laura but you don’t know what. It keeps you guessing which is what makes this such a great psychological thriller. A great novel that I recommend to anybody who is into suspense and psychological thriller. My only criticism (and why I have given it 4 stars instead of 5) is I wish there had been more dialogue.
October 24, 2022
A really good read, a situation that is frighteningly all too possible. This is one of those can't put down books. I am privileged to have been able to read it. From a psychological aspect, it reminds me of some of Dean Koontz's earlier works.
December 25, 2022
On the surface According To Plan is a stalker novel. Jared Moore has a misguided focus on his supervisor, Laura Anderson. He starts out by showing her a little too much attention and ignoring her attempts to dissuade him. As the story continues Jared's focus grows into an obsession and he shows an uncanny ability to harass Laura.
However, underneath that plot is another storyline. Laura makes rash decisions because she has issues of her own. She has problems that are not caused by Jared and needs to find ways to work through those. This psychological portrait is the part of the novel I found most interesting, especially towards the end of the book.
According To Plan is essentially a two-character novel. There are other people in the book (a neighbor, a work colleague, etc.) but they are there to show their relationships with Laura, not to tell their own stories. Yet Laura is complex enough to keep the story going.
I believe this book would be a good read either for people who enjoy stalker novels or for people who like complex characters.
However, underneath that plot is another storyline. Laura makes rash decisions because she has issues of her own. She has problems that are not caused by Jared and needs to find ways to work through those. This psychological portrait is the part of the novel I found most interesting, especially towards the end of the book.
According To Plan is essentially a two-character novel. There are other people in the book (a neighbor, a work colleague, etc.) but they are there to show their relationships with Laura, not to tell their own stories. Yet Laura is complex enough to keep the story going.
I believe this book would be a good read either for people who enjoy stalker novels or for people who like complex characters.
April 27, 2023
According to Plan is the debut novel of Erica Damon. It is a suspenseful thriller and does not disappoint. She is definitely going to be an author I would love to read again.
In this story, we meet Laura who is an antisocial workaholic. She hires a new assistant, Jared, who makes advances towards her, doesn't do his job well, and makes her uncomfortable. He becomes obsessed with her, stalking, and harassing her daily. No one believes her as Jared is a charming and super social guy. At her wits end, she makes a plan to fake her own suicide and disappear. She is an extensive researcher and planner, but everything becomes chaotic when things don't go according to plan. It doesn't appear that she will ever escape her stalker....
This is a captivating story and had me hooked from the very first chapter. I couldn't put it down and binge read it in an afternoon. It was well written and kept you on the edge of your seat. It is a quick and easy read, perfect to cozy up next to the fire and read!
In this story, we meet Laura who is an antisocial workaholic. She hires a new assistant, Jared, who makes advances towards her, doesn't do his job well, and makes her uncomfortable. He becomes obsessed with her, stalking, and harassing her daily. No one believes her as Jared is a charming and super social guy. At her wits end, she makes a plan to fake her own suicide and disappear. She is an extensive researcher and planner, but everything becomes chaotic when things don't go according to plan. It doesn't appear that she will ever escape her stalker....
This is a captivating story and had me hooked from the very first chapter. I couldn't put it down and binge read it in an afternoon. It was well written and kept you on the edge of your seat. It is a quick and easy read, perfect to cozy up next to the fire and read!
August 17, 2023
Heart Pounding Suspense
After Laura experiences inappropriate behaviour from Jared at work which gets him sacked he begins a relentless stalking campaign. To get a away from it all Laura feels the only way to stop it all is to fake her death and start a new life somewhere else. It doesn’t all go according to plan though. On the run, Jared finally catches up with her and abducts her. She now has to fight for survival but will her fake death turn real? Both characters are well developed. Jared is brilliantly creepy as the delusional stalker that believes whatever Laura is doing is for the betterment of their non existent relationship. The stalking aside, there seems to be something else of about Laura but you don’t know what. It keeps you guessing which is what makes this such a great psychological thriller. A great novel that I recommend to anybody who is into suspense and psychological thriller. My only criticism (and why I have given it 4 stars instead of 5) is I wish there had been more dialogue.
After Laura experiences inappropriate behaviour from Jared at work which gets him sacked he begins a relentless stalking campaign. To get a away from it all Laura feels the only way to stop it all is to fake her death and start a new life somewhere else. It doesn’t all go according to plan though. On the run, Jared finally catches up with her and abducts her. She now has to fight for survival but will her fake death turn real? Both characters are well developed. Jared is brilliantly creepy as the delusional stalker that believes whatever Laura is doing is for the betterment of their non existent relationship. The stalking aside, there seems to be something else of about Laura but you don’t know what. It keeps you guessing which is what makes this such a great psychological thriller. A great novel that I recommend to anybody who is into suspense and psychological thriller. My only criticism (and why I have given it 4 stars instead of 5) is I wish there had been more dialogue.
March 20, 2024
The lack of structure to the story was a negative for me. I give credit to Ms. Damon for trying the alternating POV between protagonist and antagonist, but the story came off as dual tracks of stream of consciousness, and telling 90% of the story vs. showing.
Laura was a weak, reactionary protagonist after she staged her disappearance, which was another negative for me. Yes she can have challenges, but she rarely overcame any. Mild credit to her for causing the accident that ended up saving her, but that wasn't very bright to begin with.
I also didn't buy into her lack of planning for her escape. If she'd had a truly clever escape plan and was fully prepared, then Jared's tracking her down would have been more impressive, and she could have demonstrated some courage, brains, and adaptability by overcoming a setback, think she'd avoided trouble, and then have Jared take one step closer, etc., etc.
Jared didn't seem like much of a crazed stalker either. Perhaps that was by design so the reader would see him as "normal" and believable. Bottom line, I didn't care much what happened to either of them by the time the book ended.
Laura was a weak, reactionary protagonist after she staged her disappearance, which was another negative for me. Yes she can have challenges, but she rarely overcame any. Mild credit to her for causing the accident that ended up saving her, but that wasn't very bright to begin with.
I also didn't buy into her lack of planning for her escape. If she'd had a truly clever escape plan and was fully prepared, then Jared's tracking her down would have been more impressive, and she could have demonstrated some courage, brains, and adaptability by overcoming a setback, think she'd avoided trouble, and then have Jared take one step closer, etc., etc.
Jared didn't seem like much of a crazed stalker either. Perhaps that was by design so the reader would see him as "normal" and believable. Bottom line, I didn't care much what happened to either of them by the time the book ended.
April 6, 2025
Imagine Joe Goldberg and Beck, but this time Beck is smart.
⚠️spoiler⚠️
This is dual POV with a very different vibe. In h POV is all about survival. Most of her parts are escaping him. While in H’s POV it’s all romance. He sounds like Joe from YOU. He tried to ‘fix’ her, he made plans so they could be together. The big difference is H has NPD. He actually thinks h should be grateful that someone like him is attracted to her 😂 h describes as a not pretty person btw, and H is a popular handsome guy. And he’s scarier than Joe bcz i guess he has anger issues. He wants to do everything for her, but sometimes he suddenly angry. And btw this is suspense book so don’t expect HEA for both of them.
Anyway i like it. It’s a good book if you really want a stalker book, and bored with dark romance with too much porn and horny fmc.
⚠️spoiler⚠️
This is dual POV with a very different vibe. In h POV is all about survival. Most of her parts are escaping him. While in H’s POV it’s all romance. He sounds like Joe from YOU. He tried to ‘fix’ her, he made plans so they could be together. The big difference is H has NPD. He actually thinks h should be grateful that someone like him is attracted to her 😂 h describes as a not pretty person btw, and H is a popular handsome guy. And he’s scarier than Joe bcz i guess he has anger issues. He wants to do everything for her, but sometimes he suddenly angry. And btw this is suspense book so don’t expect HEA for both of them.
Anyway i like it. It’s a good book if you really want a stalker book, and bored with dark romance with too much porn and horny fmc.
February 13, 2023
Laura hires Jared as her assistant. But she quickly realizes he has more than a professional interest in her. He continues to ask her out as she continues to spurn his advances. He just won’t take no for an answer. She takes the problem to her HR department and they fire him, even though her co-workers don’t really believe her. One even told her, “You’re not that pretty!”
But firing him didn’t stop him, and things escalate. Will Laura find a way to make him leave her alone? Will anyone believe her? This thriller has a psychological building of events that I really enjoyed reading. I kept asking myself what I would do in that situation.
A good Kindle Unlimited book. Four stars.
But firing him didn’t stop him, and things escalate. Will Laura find a way to make him leave her alone? Will anyone believe her? This thriller has a psychological building of events that I really enjoyed reading. I kept asking myself what I would do in that situation.
A good Kindle Unlimited book. Four stars.
February 19, 2023
If you are a fan of gripping thrillers which will make your skin crawl, then According to Plan is the book for you. Laura, living an ordinary quiet life, is planning something big - her own disappearance. The reasons why become apparent as the other POV (Jared) ramps up the tension. Before she knows it, she's lost in the woods and being pursued - or is it all just in her mind?
I finished this book in 2 sittings, a testament to how unputdownable it is! A very satisfying conclusion which, if you're anything like me, will leave you gasping. Brilliant writing, well done and when's the next?
I was kindly gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I finished this book in 2 sittings, a testament to how unputdownable it is! A very satisfying conclusion which, if you're anything like me, will leave you gasping. Brilliant writing, well done and when's the next?
I was kindly gifted a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 10, 2023
This Book was simple yet captivating and immensely entertaining. The author choose to not only write from the main Heroine's point of view but from the stalker as well and that benefitted the novel greatly, making it twice as engaging as it would have been on its own. I was intrigued right from the start. Laura was so closed off from everyond around her and I really wanted her to open up, connect with other people, oddly enough that's what Jared wanted as well. The author did a great job of really getting into the head of a creep who genuinely was twisted enough to feel justified in his actions. That really elevated the book to the next level. I also love that Laura had a backbone and stood up to Jared when she was able. I would have liked more from the co workers and their reaction to everything. That aspect felt a little rushed but everything else was rock solid.
January 17, 2025
Kept me guessing!
I still think about it this book after having read ot weeks ago. It has such a great subtle creepy factor-you don't even realize it! Until you're in your VERY dark driveway calling the cat inside because it's going to be freezing out and you hear some noises that do not sound like a cat. This book really sticks with you. If you like thrillers that give off those creepy vibes, this is definitely for you
I still think about it this book after having read ot weeks ago. It has such a great subtle creepy factor-you don't even realize it! Until you're in your VERY dark driveway calling the cat inside because it's going to be freezing out and you hear some noises that do not sound like a cat. This book really sticks with you. If you like thrillers that give off those creepy vibes, this is definitely for you
February 13, 2023
One interesting aspect of this well-written novel is that neither character is absolutely good or evil; they both are developed well. One confusing aspect is that while it goes back and forth in point of view, on Jared's side it's his voice while on Laura's side it's omniscient (She does this, etc.). Aside from that, well done, a good fast-moving read.
July 6, 2025
Can you escape a stalker?
How she doesn’t see he’s a stalker in today’s age was beyond me! I wanted to shake her like Yahtzee dice and tell her to wake up and stop all her rationalization’s and doubting, for me that got old… Once she did that and fought back, the book was good, character writing was great and the story moved on to a good ending…
How she doesn’t see he’s a stalker in today’s age was beyond me! I wanted to shake her like Yahtzee dice and tell her to wake up and stop all her rationalization’s and doubting, for me that got old… Once she did that and fought back, the book was good, character writing was great and the story moved on to a good ending…
February 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who loves psychological thrillers. There wasn’t any boring parts of the book and it was a steady read. I loved how the author created rich characters and plot turns that make this book a must read.
March 7, 2023
I received a free copy of this book to give an honest review. This is a great read and a well thought out book. The changes from first to third person between Laura and Jared kind of confused me at first but took absolutely nothing away from a great read. Highly recommend.
July 27, 2023
intriguing story with a stalker
This was an interesting read. The jump from 1st person to 3rd went smoother than I thought it would. Great story,. The buildup was good, the ending possible.
This was an interesting read. The jump from 1st person to 3rd went smoother than I thought it would. Great story,. The buildup was good, the ending possible.
March 22, 2024
Different but excellent book by mre author. Kept me on my toes and easy to read.
January 27, 2024
I love me a psycho unstable stalker book, but it was just that. I guess I would have hoped for some type of twist or secret history that made it made sense as to why he chose her. Idk, something a little more dramatic.
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