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The Boy in the Well
A time to mourn. A gruesome find. A race for the truth.
After her husband and son are killed in a tragic car accident, Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in a quiet, rural town. She hopes the break will help her cope with her loss.
Soon, Carolyn discovers that the small town holds unforgivable secrets. One she stumbles upon when she discovers the body of a young boy down a well – only to find he has disappeared when she returns with the police.
The local residents, including Carolyn’s mother, doubt her discovery and blame it on her current state of mind. Rumours begin to spread.
With somebody determined to stop Carolyn uncovering the truth, she knows she needs to prove what she saw. Not just for the boy and his family but also for herself.
Will Carolyn be able to find the proof she needs? Or will her life be in danger if she continues her search?
After her husband and son are killed in a tragic car accident, Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in a quiet, rural town. She hopes the break will help her cope with her loss.
Soon, Carolyn discovers that the small town holds unforgivable secrets. One she stumbles upon when she discovers the body of a young boy down a well – only to find he has disappeared when she returns with the police.
The local residents, including Carolyn’s mother, doubt her discovery and blame it on her current state of mind. Rumours begin to spread.
With somebody determined to stop Carolyn uncovering the truth, she knows she needs to prove what she saw. Not just for the boy and his family but also for herself.
Will Carolyn be able to find the proof she needs? Or will her life be in danger if she continues her search?
324 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
81 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
Dan Clark
5 books52 followersDan Clark likes to write mystery and thriller novels. His first book, The Boy in the Well was published in 2021.
Dan lives with his fiancé, Rachel.
In his free time he enjoys reading and watching psychological thriller and horror books and films.
Dan lives with his fiancé, Rachel.
In his free time he enjoys reading and watching psychological thriller and horror books and films.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
June 26, 2021
I enjoyed the mystery, the suspense, even though I did not like Carolyn much. I mean, she is morning the deads of her little boy and her husband and the next second she is pretending to be a private detective?!? She is determined to find out what happened to the missing boys from the town where her mother lives. Complicated.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
February 9, 2022
If there one book I strongly recommend this is it ! So In my extract today I decided so you can all get the feel of the start of this story I have done several bits of the pages in chapter one to bring the start of the story together. I just hope you all liked it and read it, because something is going to take place after chapter one.
Part of the first page which is page 3.
She finishes washing and dressing, kisses Simon on the cheek, then creeps past her six- year old son Ryan’s room, before heading out of the house.
Part of the next page 4
In Manchester Simon is strapping Ryan into the child’s seat in the back of the car. They’ve just finished visiting his parents.
Part of the next page 5
‘ Wow!’ Ryan calls out, starring at the uncommon car. ‘ Daddy look.’
‘Ah. Feeling more awake are we, son?’ Simon asks, flicking the indicator to overtake a lorry that is transporting farming tractors, before moving back over. The car in front is spraying Simon’s windscreen from the wet road surface. A second car speeds past so quickly that Ryan doesn’t have the chance to see it, but he spins his head anyway. It carelessly swerves in front of a camper van up ahead, barely making the motorway exit in time. The driver of the camper van stomps on his breaks sharply, and the driver in front of Simon reacts in just enough time to swerve to the next lane.
Simon, his vision still marred by the spray on his windscreen, doesn’t respond quickly enough. By the time the brake is pressed, his car is already skidding straight for the back of the camper van.
part of the next page that is page 8.
No no! It’s been a mistake. They’re not dead! Carolyn lifts the mobile to her face with jelly like arms, praying that Simon has messaged and she can show the officers how wrong they are. Of course Simon hasn’t replied. They’re not dead. They can’t be dead. She unlocks the phone with trembling fingers and opens the recent calls list, presses Simon’s name and holds the phone to her ear. It rings, then goes to voicemail. She tries again and again. The smaller of the two officers stoops and takes her hand, lifting her back to her feet.
Part of the first page which is page 3.
She finishes washing and dressing, kisses Simon on the cheek, then creeps past her six- year old son Ryan’s room, before heading out of the house.
Part of the next page 4
In Manchester Simon is strapping Ryan into the child’s seat in the back of the car. They’ve just finished visiting his parents.
Part of the next page 5
‘ Wow!’ Ryan calls out, starring at the uncommon car. ‘ Daddy look.’
‘Ah. Feeling more awake are we, son?’ Simon asks, flicking the indicator to overtake a lorry that is transporting farming tractors, before moving back over. The car in front is spraying Simon’s windscreen from the wet road surface. A second car speeds past so quickly that Ryan doesn’t have the chance to see it, but he spins his head anyway. It carelessly swerves in front of a camper van up ahead, barely making the motorway exit in time. The driver of the camper van stomps on his breaks sharply, and the driver in front of Simon reacts in just enough time to swerve to the next lane.
Simon, his vision still marred by the spray on his windscreen, doesn’t respond quickly enough. By the time the brake is pressed, his car is already skidding straight for the back of the camper van.
part of the next page that is page 8.
No no! It’s been a mistake. They’re not dead! Carolyn lifts the mobile to her face with jelly like arms, praying that Simon has messaged and she can show the officers how wrong they are. Of course Simon hasn’t replied. They’re not dead. They can’t be dead. She unlocks the phone with trembling fingers and opens the recent calls list, presses Simon’s name and holds the phone to her ear. It rings, then goes to voicemail. She tries again and again. The smaller of the two officers stoops and takes her hand, lifting her back to her feet.
March 13, 2021
Firstly I would rate this book 3.5 star rating,Goodreads need to give us the half star rating makes it easier.I would like to thank the author Dan Clark for a copy of his book.This book starts with a car crash Carolyn family are killed Simon and her child, she struggles with the loss and decides to live with her mother in a rural area.on pills and not sleeping she wanders in the night,she comes across a well where she sees a youngster body, taken her mothers car she gets help but when they arrive to the well there was no one there.what happened to the boy was it her imagination theres more twists and turns to this story.its a good read abit slow to start with.a great first book from this author.
May 2, 2021
Carolyn is grieving. Her husband and young son were killed in an auto accident. After spending weeks living in her son's bedroom, her mother convinces her to come stay with her in a small rural town. She hopes that her daughter will be able teo come to terms with her losses.
But this small town isn't as soothing as Carolyn might think. The cops .. and her mother .. .are worried about her mental health. She chases down a woman driving a car with a young boy in the back seat. Carolyn swears up and down that the boy is her son.
Things get worse. Finding an abandoned well at the back of her mother's land leads to even more confusion. She peers down into the well and sees a young boy. Panicking, she drives to the police station where once again, the cops aren't sure what to expect .. especially as the boy has disappeared when the cops take a look.
Now the police, her mother, and the local residents all think that Carolyn needs some mental health quickly. Carolyn swears she is not seeing things ...
But is she unbalanced because of her losses? Or is there something more malevolent at play?
Cleverly written plot guaranteed to keep the reader watching the twists and turns. Is Carolyn crazy? The characters are deftly drawn ... the local residents can be quirky .. or they can be very secretive. The ending was exciting ....and unexpected.
Many thanks to the author / Crooked Cat Books - Darkstroke / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
March 28, 2021
I read a lot of books and this one was excellent especially for a first time author. I had semi worked out part of the plot but guessed it wrong. I like that a book can keep me guessing like that.
I also like that there was no obvious mushy ending which would have spoilt in.
There is so much more I want to say but spoilers.
I was given an advance copy by voracious readers and the author but this is my own review.
I also like that there was no obvious mushy ending which would have spoilt in.
There is so much more I want to say but spoilers.
I was given an advance copy by voracious readers and the author but this is my own review.
March 10, 2021
Wow. This was an intense read that had me on the edge of my seat by the end. The whole story is an intricate puzzle, with twists that keep you guessing. Carolyn's frantic search to prove her mental clarity after seeing the boy in the well is compelling and believable, as she struggles to come to terms with the death of her husband and son. Mostly told from Carolyn's point of view, every so often we get glimpses from the killer's perspective that tease and add intensity to the story.
June 1, 2021
This was a great debut from Dan Clark! It was so well written and a fast paced thriller that made me not want to put it down.
The very beginning gets you hooked and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time! I love the sub plots they keep this story such a mystery! There are so many twists and turns and just when you think you know the ending.. think again!
I can’t wait to see what he writes next! If you love thrillers I definitely recommend this one!
Thanks again for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review!! @danclark
4.5/5
The very beginning gets you hooked and keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time! I love the sub plots they keep this story such a mystery! There are so many twists and turns and just when you think you know the ending.. think again!
I can’t wait to see what he writes next! If you love thrillers I definitely recommend this one!
Thanks again for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest review!! @danclark
4.5/5
April 14, 2021
The Boy In The Well by Dan Clark grabbed me from the beginning. It is very dark and suspenseful. I love the atmosphere of a claustrophobic small town. This book just does a really great job of capturing the reader.
I was able to read this book in one day. I love the pacing, it kept me completely invested. The secrets, the twists…this book is just gripping. I loved it so much.
This I’d a hard book to review, because if I say too much, it’ll get a bit spoiler like. So, I really just want to wrap this review up saying I absolutely loved it, and if I could give more than 5 stars, I would. Highly recommended!
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
I was able to read this book in one day. I love the pacing, it kept me completely invested. The secrets, the twists…this book is just gripping. I loved it so much.
This I’d a hard book to review, because if I say too much, it’ll get a bit spoiler like. So, I really just want to wrap this review up saying I absolutely loved it, and if I could give more than 5 stars, I would. Highly recommended!
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
March 30, 2021
Received a copy through Voracious Readers Only.
4.5 ⭐
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel. Lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing throughout with an ending that leaves you pleasantly surprised.
Highly recommend.
4.5 ⭐
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel. Lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing throughout with an ending that leaves you pleasantly surprised.
Highly recommend.
May 7, 2021
An excellent first novel from this author. Having seen a few positive reviews I was keen to read this book myself and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a well thought out, well written novel with twists and turns that had me fooled.
Briefly, following the death of her husband and son in a car accident Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in a small town in Wales. Shortly after arriving she goes for a walk and stumbles on a disused well in the woods. Looking down she sees the body of a boy. But when the police check the well there is no body. They, and everyone else seem to believe she imagined it due to her recent loss. Carolyn however, is sure of what she saw and won’t let it rest after finding there have two boys gone have gone missing from the town. Her investigations ruffle someone’s feathers and soon she is receiving threats and worse...
As I read this book I thought I had a good idea of the guilty party, and the reason for the death but boy were there a couple of real twists at the end. I certainly didn’t see that coming. I was minded to score this a 4* but I was so surprised by the ending it’s got to be a 5*. I defy anyone to guess the ending to this one
Briefly, following the death of her husband and son in a car accident Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in a small town in Wales. Shortly after arriving she goes for a walk and stumbles on a disused well in the woods. Looking down she sees the body of a boy. But when the police check the well there is no body. They, and everyone else seem to believe she imagined it due to her recent loss. Carolyn however, is sure of what she saw and won’t let it rest after finding there have two boys gone have gone missing from the town. Her investigations ruffle someone’s feathers and soon she is receiving threats and worse...
As I read this book I thought I had a good idea of the guilty party, and the reason for the death but boy were there a couple of real twists at the end. I certainly didn’t see that coming. I was minded to score this a 4* but I was so surprised by the ending it’s got to be a 5*. I defy anyone to guess the ending to this one
February 19, 2021
My word. For a seasoned reader who has read a load of books, this one kept me guessing until the end! You wont regret reading this book!
April 17, 2021
Review
I couldn't put this book down.
It started out so heartbreaking and i cried for Carolyn.
When she is adamant she knows what she has seen, she needs to convince the village that she is telling the truth and I had to keep turning those pages to see how the investigation panned out and to find out who the killer was
I absolutely didnt guess who it was and who the accomplice was.
I really enjoyed Dan's debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I couldn't put this book down.
It started out so heartbreaking and i cried for Carolyn.
When she is adamant she knows what she has seen, she needs to convince the village that she is telling the truth and I had to keep turning those pages to see how the investigation panned out and to find out who the killer was
I absolutely didnt guess who it was and who the accomplice was.
I really enjoyed Dan's debut novel and I'm looking forward to reading more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 17, 2021
For a debut thriller, this book was fantastic. For a thriller at all I think it was pretty amazing!
I was kindly gifted this book by the author Dan Clark and I am so very grateful to him for that. I had this on my radar for a little while, so when I got given the opportunity to read it early I was thrilled.
Carolyn loses her husband and son in a car crash one day, and whilst recovering from that trauma with her mum, in Wales, she makes a gruesome discovery that is set to change her life forever. On a cold, misty evening, Carolyn goes for a little wander in the woods behind her mothers house and finds a scenic opening which has a rustic old well at the centre of it. Upon inspection, she sees there is a dead boy down that well, and this is where our story properly begins. Carolyn summons the police who check the well and find the body to have vanished. Carolyn knows what she saw and won't give up looking for the boy in the well.
There were so many great twists to this story. I worked out pretty early on who the bad person was, however this didn't stifle my enjoyment one bit. Also, without giving anything away, I didn't work out the other bit :) Ha a bit curious I know.
The characters were so true to life here. I could sympathise with Carolyn's character and also Jeanette's - even though they had deeply opposing views on what Carolyn was doing. Father Joseph was just creepy and a bit clingy to Jeanette, but I could visualise it and it worked perfectly here. Of course the terrible Owen Lloyd was written to be a horrible, horrible guy and I didn't enjoy reading about him and his mistreatment of animals, or humans for that matter.
The writing is fast paced, and a lot happens all the way through. But when you get to the end, it is all just go go go and you'll need to keep reading as you'll want to know how this is going to end.
A fab first book from Dan Clark and I can't wait to see if he has anything in store for us after this!
www.thebeautifulbookbreak.com
I was kindly gifted this book by the author Dan Clark and I am so very grateful to him for that. I had this on my radar for a little while, so when I got given the opportunity to read it early I was thrilled.
Carolyn loses her husband and son in a car crash one day, and whilst recovering from that trauma with her mum, in Wales, she makes a gruesome discovery that is set to change her life forever. On a cold, misty evening, Carolyn goes for a little wander in the woods behind her mothers house and finds a scenic opening which has a rustic old well at the centre of it. Upon inspection, she sees there is a dead boy down that well, and this is where our story properly begins. Carolyn summons the police who check the well and find the body to have vanished. Carolyn knows what she saw and won't give up looking for the boy in the well.
There were so many great twists to this story. I worked out pretty early on who the bad person was, however this didn't stifle my enjoyment one bit. Also, without giving anything away, I didn't work out the other bit :) Ha a bit curious I know.
The characters were so true to life here. I could sympathise with Carolyn's character and also Jeanette's - even though they had deeply opposing views on what Carolyn was doing. Father Joseph was just creepy and a bit clingy to Jeanette, but I could visualise it and it worked perfectly here. Of course the terrible Owen Lloyd was written to be a horrible, horrible guy and I didn't enjoy reading about him and his mistreatment of animals, or humans for that matter.
The writing is fast paced, and a lot happens all the way through. But when you get to the end, it is all just go go go and you'll need to keep reading as you'll want to know how this is going to end.
A fab first book from Dan Clark and I can't wait to see if he has anything in store for us after this!
www.thebeautifulbookbreak.com
March 31, 2021
Wow, what an exciting, edge of your seat, adrenaline pumping read. I love a good psychological thriller and this one did not disappoint. It’s an amazing debut that is so well written it had me flipping pages until 4am I was so engrossed 😃
This is a story about Caroline, who suffers immense loss when her husband and son are killed in a tragic car crash. Caroline’s mother decides to bring her to stay with her in the small rural town where she lives while Caroline tries to piece her life back together. Not long after arriving though, during a walk in the woods to clear her mind, Caroline comes across an old well and discovers the body of a little boy lying at the bottom.
The problem is though, by the time she fetches the police and they come back to the well, there is no body at all and the whole town begins to think Caroline has lost her mind.
So has she gone crazy? Caroline swears she knows what she saw but nobody believes her and something in her tells her that she can’t let it go. This is when she decides to take matters in her own hands and the hunt for the truth begins.
This excellent, unputdownable thriller will have you engrossed just a few chapters in. My suspicions on what was happening kept changing all the way through. It’s an excellent book that keeps you on your toes and certainly keeps you guessing. I highly recommend this exciting and suspenseful read, it’s a must read for all thriller lovers!!
Thank you to Voracious Readers Only for an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. I truly enjoyed this excellent read! 😃
April 13, 2021
The fantastic premise of this story grabbed me from the start: a grief-stricken woman, Carolyn, goes to stay with her mother in a small, rural town in Wales. She goes through a fence in the back of her mother’s garden only to discover the body of a boy in an old well, but when she returns with the police, the corpse has disappeared. Because of the medication she is on, the police don’t believe her story and, in fact, the community turn on her. I spent a lot of the first quarter of the novel, fuming that no one was taking Carolyn seriously, but when she discovers that there are historical cases of two boys missing in the town Carolyn decides to investigate further.
The book brims with prickly small-town claustrophobia; deep-seated community prejudices and families with a lot of unspoken troubles bubbling away under the surface. Not only are there hints of a paedophile ring, but Carolyn has to tread on eggshells so as not to upset her mother’s friend and pillar of the community – Father Joseph. I like the mystery and confusion over the identity of the corpse, all of which stacks up against Carolyn’s reliability, so I was thankful when she finds someone to help her, although I won’t spoil who it is. This is a hard-hitting novel and there is an impending sense of doom right from the start, but there is also lots of goodness; unlikely friendships spring up and I even warmed to DS Hughes. Clark also fills the narrative with mini victories; my favourite being Carolyn’s triumph over Owen and the dog.
There are plenty of creepy and adrenalin-drenched moments; road chases; break-ins to search for evidence and a Halloween party with stalkers hiding behind masks. I think the pace is great and Clark piles on the suspense and the pressure so that the closer Carolyn gets to the truth the more danger she puts herself and her side-kick in. Betrayal, jealousy and dark secrets are all uncovered, leading to a satisfying conclusion for this gripping debut.
The book brims with prickly small-town claustrophobia; deep-seated community prejudices and families with a lot of unspoken troubles bubbling away under the surface. Not only are there hints of a paedophile ring, but Carolyn has to tread on eggshells so as not to upset her mother’s friend and pillar of the community – Father Joseph. I like the mystery and confusion over the identity of the corpse, all of which stacks up against Carolyn’s reliability, so I was thankful when she finds someone to help her, although I won’t spoil who it is. This is a hard-hitting novel and there is an impending sense of doom right from the start, but there is also lots of goodness; unlikely friendships spring up and I even warmed to DS Hughes. Clark also fills the narrative with mini victories; my favourite being Carolyn’s triumph over Owen and the dog.
There are plenty of creepy and adrenalin-drenched moments; road chases; break-ins to search for evidence and a Halloween party with stalkers hiding behind masks. I think the pace is great and Clark piles on the suspense and the pressure so that the closer Carolyn gets to the truth the more danger she puts herself and her side-kick in. Betrayal, jealousy and dark secrets are all uncovered, leading to a satisfying conclusion for this gripping debut.
May 1, 2021
A grieving mother channels her pain into solving a mystery that has plagued a village.
When her husband and son are killed in an accident, Carolyn is left bereft. Taking a break from her life in Leeds, she temporarily shuts down her cake studio and moves to Llanbedr with her mother, Jeanette. What should have been a period of rejuvenation and healing for Carolyn, soon turns into a nightmare when she discovers the body of a young boy in a well behind her mother's house. What's even worse is that when she returns back with the cops, the body is missing, deeming her crazy and unhinged among the authorities and town folks. Convinced that there is a killer on the loose and still reeling from her personal loss, Carolyn delves into an investigation of her own, unearthing secrets and endangering lives.
For a debut novel, this was quite an intense and interesting read. There is an escalating sense of dread as Carolyn goes about her sleuthing, making enemies along the way. It did get a bit confusing to keep track of all the characters. Also, I wasn't very keen about the writing style which was entirely in the simple present tense. But the climax scenes were unexpected and quite satisfying.
Overall, a fast-paced, action-packed read.
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
When her husband and son are killed in an accident, Carolyn is left bereft. Taking a break from her life in Leeds, she temporarily shuts down her cake studio and moves to Llanbedr with her mother, Jeanette. What should have been a period of rejuvenation and healing for Carolyn, soon turns into a nightmare when she discovers the body of a young boy in a well behind her mother's house. What's even worse is that when she returns back with the cops, the body is missing, deeming her crazy and unhinged among the authorities and town folks. Convinced that there is a killer on the loose and still reeling from her personal loss, Carolyn delves into an investigation of her own, unearthing secrets and endangering lives.
For a debut novel, this was quite an intense and interesting read. There is an escalating sense of dread as Carolyn goes about her sleuthing, making enemies along the way. It did get a bit confusing to keep track of all the characters. Also, I wasn't very keen about the writing style which was entirely in the simple present tense. But the climax scenes were unexpected and quite satisfying.
Overall, a fast-paced, action-packed read.
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2021
If you want an instant introduction that blows your mind away this is the one for you. It left me completely speechless and I completely didn’t expect the tragedy that caused my eyes to tear up. The thrill and the intensity only builds up the more you read. The chapters start with a new day to begin with which I absolutely adore as this created a perfect timeline to piece together.
For me I think I instantly felt a connection to the read as the book had things I was familiar with, places, bands, radio stations etc. When a murder scene greets you you’re not left curious about who the killer is as you immediately know it’s a he for the story tells you so. But still your mind gets turning on the location they’re at and who potentially could be involved.
If only the police would believe? Or is Carolyn going crazy from the grief she’s endured? The build up and the excitement hits you in such a way you’re almost screaming at the book, screaming at the people who don’t believe. You also start to self doubt could this be a psychological thriller/horror with the ultimate twist at the end?
The chapters are short which makes this an extremely fast paced read. I couldn’t predict this at all any of the way. I’ve not read anything like this and I found the storyline extremely unique. So glad I got the chance to review this for Dan.
For me I think I instantly felt a connection to the read as the book had things I was familiar with, places, bands, radio stations etc. When a murder scene greets you you’re not left curious about who the killer is as you immediately know it’s a he for the story tells you so. But still your mind gets turning on the location they’re at and who potentially could be involved.
If only the police would believe? Or is Carolyn going crazy from the grief she’s endured? The build up and the excitement hits you in such a way you’re almost screaming at the book, screaming at the people who don’t believe. You also start to self doubt could this be a psychological thriller/horror with the ultimate twist at the end?
The chapters are short which makes this an extremely fast paced read. I couldn’t predict this at all any of the way. I’ve not read anything like this and I found the storyline extremely unique. So glad I got the chance to review this for Dan.
July 26, 2021
Looking for a new thriller? Try this! Has me gripped.
Starts off with a regular family scenario, but the end of the first chapter had me hooked. By the end of the second chapter I was gripped as it felt tense as Carolyn loses those closest to her in an accident.
(Trying not to give too much away, honestly DONT read the blurb, just dive right in like I did -you won't be dissapointed)
So she then goes to stay with her mother as she mourns her loss and struggles to cope. From there on in the story is ramped up with a gruesome find.....but no one believes Carolyn and thinks it is her grief talking, but is it?
Really like how the author has shown the struggles of Carolyn's grief and that it isn't a quick process to overcome. She has likely focused on the gruesome find as a distraction from her personal life. A likeable character with determination to find out the truth....at whatever cost.
Flown through this one as the fast pace writing style kept me reading on
Starts off with a regular family scenario, but the end of the first chapter had me hooked. By the end of the second chapter I was gripped as it felt tense as Carolyn loses those closest to her in an accident.
(Trying not to give too much away, honestly DONT read the blurb, just dive right in like I did -you won't be dissapointed)
So she then goes to stay with her mother as she mourns her loss and struggles to cope. From there on in the story is ramped up with a gruesome find.....but no one believes Carolyn and thinks it is her grief talking, but is it?
Really like how the author has shown the struggles of Carolyn's grief and that it isn't a quick process to overcome. She has likely focused on the gruesome find as a distraction from her personal life. A likeable character with determination to find out the truth....at whatever cost.
Flown through this one as the fast pace writing style kept me reading on
April 14, 2021
Suspenseful dark mystery
The Boy in the Well is a dark and suspenseful mystery from debut author Dan Clark.
I read this entire book in a single day. The pacing is on point and kept me guessing. From the moment the protagonist makes her gruesome discovery, I had to keep reading to figure out what was really going on in this small town across the pond.
Everyone in this town has a secret to hide. As Carolyn tries her best to unravel the mystery, the truth becomes more complex. Eventually, the tangled web of lies leads to a shocking conclusion.
I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give away the ending— so I’ll just say WOW! That ending really got me. I did NOT see it coming. I’m an avid reader and I’m generally very good at solving mysteries, but I couldn’t figure out all the twists and turns in this novel.
Although I would not describe this novel as particularly graphic (especially compared to what you can find on cable TV nowadays), I would advise readers that it does touch on some fairly serious and upsetting topics. I would describe this book as “Law and Order SVU meets Agatha Christie.” If you enjoy dark suspensful thrillers, you’ll have a great time solving the mystery of The Boy in the Well.
The Boy in the Well is a dark and suspenseful mystery from debut author Dan Clark.
I read this entire book in a single day. The pacing is on point and kept me guessing. From the moment the protagonist makes her gruesome discovery, I had to keep reading to figure out what was really going on in this small town across the pond.
Everyone in this town has a secret to hide. As Carolyn tries her best to unravel the mystery, the truth becomes more complex. Eventually, the tangled web of lies leads to a shocking conclusion.
I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give away the ending— so I’ll just say WOW! That ending really got me. I did NOT see it coming. I’m an avid reader and I’m generally very good at solving mysteries, but I couldn’t figure out all the twists and turns in this novel.
Although I would not describe this novel as particularly graphic (especially compared to what you can find on cable TV nowadays), I would advise readers that it does touch on some fairly serious and upsetting topics. I would describe this book as “Law and Order SVU meets Agatha Christie.” If you enjoy dark suspensful thrillers, you’ll have a great time solving the mystery of The Boy in the Well.
May 10, 2021
After the unexpected and tragic death of her husband and young son, Carolyn goes to stay with her mother while she heals emotionally. While on an early morning walk in the woods she comes across an old well with the body of a young deceased boy. In the time it takes for her to run for help and alert the authorities, the body disappears. Carolyn suddenly finds herself branded a liar by the small town residents who see her as trouble maker in their tight knit and quiet community. Determined to prove that she did see a body Carolyn starts her own investigation, but someone in this town is also determined to stop her.
This was an interesting murder mystery with some of my favourite things: small town, secrets and lies and a good mix of mysterious residents. The story was paced well with some unexpected twists along the way. 3.5⭐️
This was an interesting murder mystery with some of my favourite things: small town, secrets and lies and a good mix of mysterious residents. The story was paced well with some unexpected twists along the way. 3.5⭐️
April 15, 2021
Fantastic thriller mystery. And a debut at that!!
Carolyn is staying in Llanbedr because she is spiralling into depression. Grieving the sudden loss of her husband and son.
Those first few chapters were a very powerful introduction to Carolyn and the events surrounding her. It does make you appreciate life and to cherish those around you.
Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in Llanbedr. A small village in Wales. There's one just a 50 minute drive from me. And given I live in a small Welsh town where everyone knows everyone I could relate easily to the characters in this story.
I loved the fact that people weren't sure to believe Carolyn at first given the reasoning behind why she was in Llanbedr. This gave the author the license to allow the character to delve and snoop herself. Using her own personal experience to get people to open up. I usually roll my eyes at storylines where secondary characters work out the crimes. But here I found it worked out well.
Like all classic thrillers and mysteries The Boy In The Well had lots of red herrings and devious characters to point the finger of blame at. I want to claim victory that I did figure out one characters guilt 🥳 but I didn't figure out the link or why.
The Boy In The Well is a great debut novel, full of mystery and intrigue. Who put the boy in the well? Go buy the book and find out 👍🏼
Carolyn is staying in Llanbedr because she is spiralling into depression. Grieving the sudden loss of her husband and son.
Those first few chapters were a very powerful introduction to Carolyn and the events surrounding her. It does make you appreciate life and to cherish those around you.
Carolyn goes to stay with her mother in Llanbedr. A small village in Wales. There's one just a 50 minute drive from me. And given I live in a small Welsh town where everyone knows everyone I could relate easily to the characters in this story.
I loved the fact that people weren't sure to believe Carolyn at first given the reasoning behind why she was in Llanbedr. This gave the author the license to allow the character to delve and snoop herself. Using her own personal experience to get people to open up. I usually roll my eyes at storylines where secondary characters work out the crimes. But here I found it worked out well.
Like all classic thrillers and mysteries The Boy In The Well had lots of red herrings and devious characters to point the finger of blame at. I want to claim victory that I did figure out one characters guilt 🥳 but I didn't figure out the link or why.
The Boy In The Well is a great debut novel, full of mystery and intrigue. Who put the boy in the well? Go buy the book and find out 👍🏼
April 25, 2021
When Carolyn suffers a tragic loss, she takes a trip to stay with her mom for a couple of weeks. The time should have been about rest and recovery, but instead becomes a mystery when she sees the body of a boy in a well. But the only boy it could be disappeared eight years ago, and when the body disappears, not even her mother believes her.
A well paced first book for this author. It wasn't without its problems, but it held my interest. Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book.
A well paced first book for this author. It wasn't without its problems, but it held my interest. Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book.
April 12, 2021
I have to say, I'm not usually surprised by things...however, the ending had my mind all sorts of messed up! I'm sad that its over. Dan Clark definitely knows how to capture your attention and keep you wanting more!
April 1, 2021
This is one fantastic debut novel. It draws you in from the very first chapter and I couldn't put it down. The author really brings the characters to life as the story unfolds. I would definitely like to see this on the big screen.
July 28, 2021
This is a great fast paced crime thriller story of hardship and tragedy bringing out passion and determination for justice.
When Carolyn's world is turned upside down by a tragic accident, she finds herself thrown into a situation she could never imagine she would be in. Fighting her own mind and those closest to her to prove that the boy in the well wasn't a twisted hallucination, Carolyn is determined to find answers about what she saw.
The descriptive writing used here really brings this story to life, from the weather, to the smells and the settings, it is easy to picture exactly where Carolyn is and what she is experiencing.
There are so many plot twists! I guessed a few directions it would take, but was also completely thrown by others.
I found it hard to put this book down and was picking it up to read the odd page at every opportunity I got.
Overall it was a great story and I will definitely be recommending it to a lot of people.
When Carolyn's world is turned upside down by a tragic accident, she finds herself thrown into a situation she could never imagine she would be in. Fighting her own mind and those closest to her to prove that the boy in the well wasn't a twisted hallucination, Carolyn is determined to find answers about what she saw.
The descriptive writing used here really brings this story to life, from the weather, to the smells and the settings, it is easy to picture exactly where Carolyn is and what she is experiencing.
There are so many plot twists! I guessed a few directions it would take, but was also completely thrown by others.
I found it hard to put this book down and was picking it up to read the odd page at every opportunity I got.
Overall it was a great story and I will definitely be recommending it to a lot of people.
May 1, 2021
This is a murder mystery which will keep you on edge all the way through the book. I can highly recommend this book to anyone who loves tense mysteries. I received this complementary copy from Voracious Readers Only
May 18, 2021
I received this book from Voracious Readers Only and the author. This book is so amazing. Caroline is a great character that you fall in love with immediately and your heart breaks for her when you read what happens to her family. She shows what strength she has when she continues to search for what happened to the 2 boys in her mother's town. I loved how the story's plot unfolds, leaving you guessing until you think you've figured it out. Then another twist comes and you're left questioning everything. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
April 14, 2021
When Carolyn's husband Simon and her six year old son Ryan are killed in a car accident , as her world is torn apart , she barely eats or sleeps ..and is haunted by a thousand what if 's churning through her mind ..Carolyn's mother goes to stay with her and gently pushes her to see a bereavement councillor..Eventually persuading Carolyn to go back with her to Llandbedr,a small town in South Wales, hoping that the quiet and open space will help in her daughter's healing , they make the journey back .Upon waking early after her first night home ,Carolyn sets off for a walk...Beyond the garden into the woods she sees an old well ...but to her horror there is the body of a young boy inside ...But when she returns with the police and rescue party - the boy has disappeared..Chief Inspector Richard Williams is furious, believing Carolyn to be an attention seeker , the locals avoid her, with even her own mother wandering if Carolyn imagined what she saw .But for the first time in a long time ..Carolyn feels alive..has a reason to get up in the morning, and is determined to find out what happened to the boy in the well ..As walls of lies begin to come down..with just one friend believing what she saw ..the brutal truth begins to surface ..But what happened to the boy in the well ? And what other secrets does Llanbedr hide ? It was the cover that drew me to this book , then the blurb ... A Cracking 5 star debut ...I look forward to more by this author .
December 17, 2021
An absolute stonker of a debut novel.
Fantastically dark and disturbing thriller that will make your toes curl.
When Carolyn's world falls apart after losing her husband and son in a car crash she decides to visit her mum in a small village in Wales.
One evening when Carolyn can't settle she goes for a walk in the woods behind her mother's house and comes across a old well.
Looking inside the well she sees a dead body of a small boy, immediately calling the police.
This is where the storyline hits you in the face as when the police arrive there is no sign of the body and everyone believes that she has imagined it due to grief.
Who is the boy? How had he disappeared? Who is lying and why.
Extremely fast paced with so many twists it will make you dizzy!
Fantastically dark and disturbing thriller that will make your toes curl.
When Carolyn's world falls apart after losing her husband and son in a car crash she decides to visit her mum in a small village in Wales.
One evening when Carolyn can't settle she goes for a walk in the woods behind her mother's house and comes across a old well.
Looking inside the well she sees a dead body of a small boy, immediately calling the police.
This is where the storyline hits you in the face as when the police arrive there is no sign of the body and everyone believes that she has imagined it due to grief.
Who is the boy? How had he disappeared? Who is lying and why.
Extremely fast paced with so many twists it will make you dizzy!
May 2, 2021
This debut novel by Dan Clark captured me from the first page right up to the last. It’s a pacy story, with characters that I could relate to, and a plot that teased and tantalised all the way! It’s dark and compelling, and very intriguing.,I loved it, highly recommend it, and can’t wait to read more from this author!
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