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Blackthorn Wood
From the author of Seaview What happens when bullying becomes lethal? Every workplace has its dark corners, places where the power-hungry lurk, where resentment and grudges fester. Former deputy head teacher Cassie Clifton knows this. It’s why she’s no longer working. And it’s why she hasn’t left her home for more than two years. Cassie’s husband has encouraged her to work with a therapist to recover from the damage she’s suffered after workplace bullying and a drunken staff party that took a violent turn. Freddy’s counseling and support helps Cassie take her first tentative steps back into the world. But the threat hasn’t disappeared—and once she understands the malevolent machinations going on around her, she will have to confront her fears head-on . . .
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2023
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43 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 27, 2023
This book is described as a psychological suspense, and there are definitely some suspenseful scenes, but for me, this book was much more than that. I really connected with this book in a way that I never thought I would. This book discusses workplace bullying. We read a lot about bullies being kids, but there are adult bullies as well. And when it’s in the workplace, how do adults deal with it? Is there a correct way to deal with it? I felt for Cassie, internalizing a lot, holding it in until it effected her mental health. I love that this story was told through her sessions with her therapist.
There are so many things in this book that the author did “right.” And that’s really hard to do with such a heavy topic. I really felt very bad for Cassie. I wanted to jump into the book and take her side. When she realized what she did at the end, it made my heart hurt for her even more. I hate when people try to take advantage of others. So for me, this book brought out a lot of strong feelings.
This is a thriller, so there are twists that you won’t see coming. But I will say this, this for the first time, was secondary for me. I really just loved the overall topic and tone of this book.
There are so many things in this book that the author did “right.” And that’s really hard to do with such a heavy topic. I really felt very bad for Cassie. I wanted to jump into the book and take her side. When she realized what she did at the end, it made my heart hurt for her even more. I hate when people try to take advantage of others. So for me, this book brought out a lot of strong feelings.
This is a thriller, so there are twists that you won’t see coming. But I will say this, this for the first time, was secondary for me. I really just loved the overall topic and tone of this book.
November 28, 2023
Toxic Work Environment
Headmistress with no backbone
A Targeted Teacher
Breakdown of Long-term Friendships
This suspense novel offers it all - and more. A creepy house. Cringe moments. Really I couldn't help myself shouting out "Just do something already!".
Headmistress with no backbone
A Targeted Teacher
Breakdown of Long-term Friendships
This suspense novel offers it all - and more. A creepy house. Cringe moments. Really I couldn't help myself shouting out "Just do something already!".
December 2, 2023
Blackthorn Wood is one of those books that is hard to read, but that I needed to get to the end of as soon as possible. I had to know what happened, and my heart was pounding as I envisioned the possibilities.
I feel like I need to preface this by saying I have severe, for which I receive treatment. I have some agoraphobic tendencies and thought patterns. My mother actually had a stint of severe agoraphobia. Many people don’t know that it’s not just not leaving your house, but the fear of getting into a situation you can’t get out of – like getting stuck in an elevator. All of that is to say, I connected to Cassie on a powerful level. And Hillman did some amazing representation of what it’s like to be inside the mind of someone with anxiety. The constant confusion. Am I crazy? Is this really happening. Do they hate me? Is that person out to get me? It’s exhausting and very hard to talk yourself out of those thoughts.
As a neurodivergent with a mental illness, I always appreciate realistic representations of either of these life experiences. Many people don’t understand the realities of what it’s like. Instead, they see “funny” ones like “Monk” or people with Tourette’s yelling curse words (that is only a small portion of cases) and don’t see more realistic representations. I even caught myself at one point thinking Cassie was being silly. Then I realized I knew exactly how she felt.
Hillman’s development of the mean girl clique, but as grown-ups, was so real, too. Everyone thinks that doesn’t happen as adults. And, thank God, it happens less, but in workplaces and cities the world it happens. The characters were raw, real, and surprising. My favorites were Jax and Freddy. I wish we could all have Freddy as our counselor. The world would be a better place.
For a more in-depth review, including purchase links, check my blog amorinacarlton.com
Who’s It For?
Anyone who loves a dramatic, domestic thriller will enjoy this. The twists and turns are full of catty, schoolyard bullying drama – but it’s the adults this time doling out the harsh words. If that sounds like a good time, pick up this book.
Content Warnings: Bullying, Hostile Workplace, Depression, Severe Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Agorophobia, Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Child Services, Violence, and More. This list is not meant to serve as a full list of all topics a person might find offensive or triggering.
I feel like I need to preface this by saying I have severe, for which I receive treatment. I have some agoraphobic tendencies and thought patterns. My mother actually had a stint of severe agoraphobia. Many people don’t know that it’s not just not leaving your house, but the fear of getting into a situation you can’t get out of – like getting stuck in an elevator. All of that is to say, I connected to Cassie on a powerful level. And Hillman did some amazing representation of what it’s like to be inside the mind of someone with anxiety. The constant confusion. Am I crazy? Is this really happening. Do they hate me? Is that person out to get me? It’s exhausting and very hard to talk yourself out of those thoughts.
As a neurodivergent with a mental illness, I always appreciate realistic representations of either of these life experiences. Many people don’t understand the realities of what it’s like. Instead, they see “funny” ones like “Monk” or people with Tourette’s yelling curse words (that is only a small portion of cases) and don’t see more realistic representations. I even caught myself at one point thinking Cassie was being silly. Then I realized I knew exactly how she felt.
Hillman’s development of the mean girl clique, but as grown-ups, was so real, too. Everyone thinks that doesn’t happen as adults. And, thank God, it happens less, but in workplaces and cities the world it happens. The characters were raw, real, and surprising. My favorites were Jax and Freddy. I wish we could all have Freddy as our counselor. The world would be a better place.
For a more in-depth review, including purchase links, check my blog amorinacarlton.com
Who’s It For?
Anyone who loves a dramatic, domestic thriller will enjoy this. The twists and turns are full of catty, schoolyard bullying drama – but it’s the adults this time doling out the harsh words. If that sounds like a good time, pick up this book.
Content Warnings: Bullying, Hostile Workplace, Depression, Severe Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Agorophobia, Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Child Services, Violence, and More. This list is not meant to serve as a full list of all topics a person might find offensive or triggering.
December 4, 2023
I find it a fun ride when you start a book without having a clue what is going on, bringing you a present that insinuates a sinister beginning and slowly unravels all the events leading to the present. This psychological thriller takes a deep dive into the dark and unsettling world of adult bullying in the workplace. It tells the story from alternating timelines as Cassie starts working with a psychotherapist to help her through her debilitating mental health issues that have kept her prisoner in her home for two years, and through her therapy we read the other timeline of the past events which lead her to this awful condition. The drama and toxic workplace events were unnerving and scary, but also so realistic and definitely relatable in some ways. I think everyone has suffered some type of bullying to some level in the workplace. The power struggle and animosity of coworkers is an all to real thing. I also really loved the home, Blackthorn Wood, and how it represented her place of safety. The description of the home and the land transported me there and made me really wish I lived on an estate like that! I also really enjoyed the therapist himself, who had his own demons to deal with, which really showed that everyone is human. Overall it was a very enjoyable psychological thriller and I was able to read it in two days.
November 14, 2023
This is the 3rd book from Paula Hillman, having read all 3, and Thanks to bloodhound books I have had the chance to read an arc and leave a review.
Paula Hillman stories are a nice slow burn. Not high drama and twisty plots just a pleasant story that has some little twists along the way. Never anything too shocking but always a lovely journey.
This story is about Cassie a school teacher given a promotion which takes Cassie on a process of resentment and jealousy from other candidate hopefuls and allies which in turn knocks her self confidence.
Tina the school admin sets her sights on making life miserable for Cassie but all may not be as it seems.
Freddy is called in by Cassie’s husband, Si, as a therapist that spends a few days in Cassie’s home to try and fix what’s now broken in Cassie when things at work come to a head.
Cassie has become reclusive in her beautiful woodland home from the fall out from her promotion and it is here Freddy tackles the situation and takes the reader on the journey of the last 2 years of Cassie’s life.
Really enjoyed this book it was nice to have something a little more relaxed to read but something that still kept me intereste
Paula Hillman stories are a nice slow burn. Not high drama and twisty plots just a pleasant story that has some little twists along the way. Never anything too shocking but always a lovely journey.
This story is about Cassie a school teacher given a promotion which takes Cassie on a process of resentment and jealousy from other candidate hopefuls and allies which in turn knocks her self confidence.
Tina the school admin sets her sights on making life miserable for Cassie but all may not be as it seems.
Freddy is called in by Cassie’s husband, Si, as a therapist that spends a few days in Cassie’s home to try and fix what’s now broken in Cassie when things at work come to a head.
Cassie has become reclusive in her beautiful woodland home from the fall out from her promotion and it is here Freddy tackles the situation and takes the reader on the journey of the last 2 years of Cassie’s life.
Really enjoyed this book it was nice to have something a little more relaxed to read but something that still kept me intereste
November 15, 2023
What another epic read by Paula! Love all of Paula's books! This one was a bit different as the main subject was bullying in an adult world, toxic colleagues and counselling to help deal with certain aspects.
I really felt for Cassie, she went through so much, Alison didn't seem to do much but she also had to keep her and her school's reputation. This book really hits home how catty some people can become, how clicky you can get and how it feels on the outside. It was well written but also hard to write a review on when the subject is so emotional.
I think of Freddy as the angel on the shoulder, the one to push you to your limits and past them to heal yourself. I feel he helps and it's nice to have someone to chat to, someone inpartial, unbiased. He'd be a good friend but also find out he had his own demons.
Sometimes it's good to cut ties with bad places and people, keeping in touch means it's still relevant and can sometimes be too hard to deal with. Becky is an example but she also needs help, the quiet one who sticks to the sidelines but still gets affected by things.
Would recommend this book and the others by Paula.
I really felt for Cassie, she went through so much, Alison didn't seem to do much but she also had to keep her and her school's reputation. This book really hits home how catty some people can become, how clicky you can get and how it feels on the outside. It was well written but also hard to write a review on when the subject is so emotional.
I think of Freddy as the angel on the shoulder, the one to push you to your limits and past them to heal yourself. I feel he helps and it's nice to have someone to chat to, someone inpartial, unbiased. He'd be a good friend but also find out he had his own demons.
Sometimes it's good to cut ties with bad places and people, keeping in touch means it's still relevant and can sometimes be too hard to deal with. Becky is an example but she also needs help, the quiet one who sticks to the sidelines but still gets affected by things.
Would recommend this book and the others by Paula.
November 27, 2023
Blackthorn Wood was my third Paula Hillman book to read and I loved it just as much as the previous two.
While this is described as a psychological suspense I actually found it a very easy chilled read. Also like the authors previous two books this was a slow burn but it works really well, your interest in the story and the characters is slowly built with a nice few twists thrown in the mix.
The subject matter of work place bullying was very interesting to read, with the author approaching & writing the subject brilliantly. It was a real reminder & eye opener to just how cruel people can be and that bullying occurs at all ages and stages of life.
One of my favourite things about Paula's writing is how descriptive it is and this was no exception, it was a beautifully atmospheric read with Paula's attention to detail allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the story.
Another great read I would highly recommend.
While this is described as a psychological suspense I actually found it a very easy chilled read. Also like the authors previous two books this was a slow burn but it works really well, your interest in the story and the characters is slowly built with a nice few twists thrown in the mix.
The subject matter of work place bullying was very interesting to read, with the author approaching & writing the subject brilliantly. It was a real reminder & eye opener to just how cruel people can be and that bullying occurs at all ages and stages of life.
One of my favourite things about Paula's writing is how descriptive it is and this was no exception, it was a beautifully atmospheric read with Paula's attention to detail allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the story.
Another great read I would highly recommend.
November 28, 2023
This is my third read by this author and I've enjoyed reading each one.
I find the writing style to be quite a slow burn - a little different to the fast-paced, edge of your seat thrillers I often read - but a nice relaxed read with an interesting story that is gradually revealed, with a few twists to hold your interest.
What I absolutely love though is the attention to detail that really places you in the setting and connects you with both the characters and the story.
Cassie hasn't set foot out of her house in over two years!
Her husband brings in a therapist who can help her recover her past trauma - and this is how we discover her story.
So, Cassie had been a victim of workplace bullying - as the head teacher of a primary school.
This was all so well written!
As a mum of three (and finally out of the system!) I've been through many years of the trials of schooling - and the atmosphere created here, perfectly show the strains and stresses that are put on our teacher and heads.
Not only the everyday things, the children, the parents, unappreciative bosses, underfunding and the sheer pressure of the job - but add into that, colleagues who want to destroy you!
Capturing all of this so well really brought back memories and was often an uncomfortable read. Really quite thought-provoking.
I also found Cassie very relatable and immediately felt sorry for her.
Another great read which focusses on some current issues that I've not seen much of in fiction.
I find the writing style to be quite a slow burn - a little different to the fast-paced, edge of your seat thrillers I often read - but a nice relaxed read with an interesting story that is gradually revealed, with a few twists to hold your interest.
What I absolutely love though is the attention to detail that really places you in the setting and connects you with both the characters and the story.
Cassie hasn't set foot out of her house in over two years!
Her husband brings in a therapist who can help her recover her past trauma - and this is how we discover her story.
So, Cassie had been a victim of workplace bullying - as the head teacher of a primary school.
This was all so well written!
As a mum of three (and finally out of the system!) I've been through many years of the trials of schooling - and the atmosphere created here, perfectly show the strains and stresses that are put on our teacher and heads.
Not only the everyday things, the children, the parents, unappreciative bosses, underfunding and the sheer pressure of the job - but add into that, colleagues who want to destroy you!
Capturing all of this so well really brought back memories and was often an uncomfortable read. Really quite thought-provoking.
I also found Cassie very relatable and immediately felt sorry for her.
Another great read which focusses on some current issues that I've not seen much of in fiction.
November 25, 2023
Blackthorn Woods by Paula Hillman
What held my attention the most is how the author delves into mental illness and cleverly uses a character, Freddy, to overcome the struggles of Cassie’s past.
Instantly, I was drawn to Cassie. As I read, a pang of sympathy deepened towards her. She no longer felt like just a book character — she was/is real!
I simply adore the author’s writing style, not only is it very well written she has a good eye for detail. The author brings the scenes to life with these details and with her strong characters, even the smaller characters stand out.
Overall this is a very interesting story, it’s a slow burner though, and there are a couple of unexpected twists.
Cassie has refused to leave her home for two years. Her husband decides to contact a therapist, Freddy for help. Cassie is reluctant at first but soon warms towards Freddy. We soon learn of Cassie’s extreme case of bullying at work when she became Deputy Headteacher in her primary school…
I highly recommend this powerful, moving novel.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the ARC.
What held my attention the most is how the author delves into mental illness and cleverly uses a character, Freddy, to overcome the struggles of Cassie’s past.
Instantly, I was drawn to Cassie. As I read, a pang of sympathy deepened towards her. She no longer felt like just a book character — she was/is real!
I simply adore the author’s writing style, not only is it very well written she has a good eye for detail. The author brings the scenes to life with these details and with her strong characters, even the smaller characters stand out.
Overall this is a very interesting story, it’s a slow burner though, and there are a couple of unexpected twists.
Cassie has refused to leave her home for two years. Her husband decides to contact a therapist, Freddy for help. Cassie is reluctant at first but soon warms towards Freddy. We soon learn of Cassie’s extreme case of bullying at work when she became Deputy Headteacher in her primary school…
I highly recommend this powerful, moving novel.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for the ARC.
December 5, 2023
This felt like reading a book about the drama and going ons of my own workplace! I work in education and it felt really close to home especially working within a very large team. The book was a bit of a slow burner for me and I really wasn’t sure where it was going, I felt like I was patiently waiting for something really big/bad to happen. There wasn’t much of a thriller feel for me but I enjoyed the story, definitely felt more real life than fiction as I believe this sort of thing happens a lot in real life, more than we know. It really highlights the struggles people face and how cruel other people can be. Bullying is not acceptable, ever. Some of the characters in this story were very likeable like Dot and Jax and others were very unlikeable... Overall, a good story with insights into mental health and workplace bullying.
October 29, 2023
Paula Hillman's new novel is dark and disturbing. Her writing is hypnotic and full of brooding menace in an authentic story of a woman traumatised by gaslighting at her place of work.
I was totally engrossed by this book. Cassie Clifton seemed so appallingly vulnerable as a campaign of terror overtook her relentlessly step by step. The characterisation is superb: unrewarded innocence up against a cruel and ugly malevolence.
I am totally in awe of the author's ability to tackle such an extremely difficult subject. Her psychological insight reminds me of the chilling classics written by Patrick Hamilton a century ago.
The denouement is daring, ingenious, shocking and thrilling.
Highly recommended!
I was totally engrossed by this book. Cassie Clifton seemed so appallingly vulnerable as a campaign of terror overtook her relentlessly step by step. The characterisation is superb: unrewarded innocence up against a cruel and ugly malevolence.
I am totally in awe of the author's ability to tackle such an extremely difficult subject. Her psychological insight reminds me of the chilling classics written by Patrick Hamilton a century ago.
The denouement is daring, ingenious, shocking and thrilling.
Highly recommended!
November 27, 2023
3.5 stars
Blackthorn Wood had an interesting, realistic feeling storyline. It was perfectly paced so we could get to know the characters fully, but at the same time, it wasn't so slow that it dragged on and got boring. It touches on the struggles of being a woman. Can we truly have it all?
I was totally hooked, I kept saying "just one more chapter..."
I found that the descriptions of anxiety/agoraphobia really resonated with me. Pretending you're happy to stay at home, but secretly wishing you could go out. The total terror at going further than your own front door. Cassie's therapy at times helped me too! How amazing is that for a book that is fiction rather than self-help.
I also found that some of the relationships with colleagues were so realistic. The ones who undermine and belittle you. The managers who don't support you. And the ones that you realise are only using you to get what they want.
Overall, this was a brilliant read, which I would recommend.
Unfortunately, the pre-release Kindle edition I was gifted had some formatting and spelling grammatical errors which made it hard for me to read at times hence the 3.5 stars (although I put 4)
Blackthorn Wood had an interesting, realistic feeling storyline. It was perfectly paced so we could get to know the characters fully, but at the same time, it wasn't so slow that it dragged on and got boring. It touches on the struggles of being a woman. Can we truly have it all?
I was totally hooked, I kept saying "just one more chapter..."
I found that the descriptions of anxiety/agoraphobia really resonated with me. Pretending you're happy to stay at home, but secretly wishing you could go out. The total terror at going further than your own front door. Cassie's therapy at times helped me too! How amazing is that for a book that is fiction rather than self-help.
I also found that some of the relationships with colleagues were so realistic. The ones who undermine and belittle you. The managers who don't support you. And the ones that you realise are only using you to get what they want.
Overall, this was a brilliant read, which I would recommend.
Unfortunately, the pre-release Kindle edition I was gifted had some formatting and spelling grammatical errors which made it hard for me to read at times hence the 3.5 stars (although I put 4)
November 27, 2023
This was psychological thriller to the nth degree! I had so much anxiety reading this book and learning about all that Cassie had to go through during her time as deputy head teacher but let me tell you the suspense outweighed the anxiety a trillion to one! Every little snide comment, every little dirty look and every big argument had between the characters of this book did two things; one, made the suspense so ridiculously palpable and two, confused me so that I HAD to get to the bottom of all this dark drama. While dredging through Cassie’s trauma was really dark and harrowing there were many light moments to break the tension as well which I really appreciated. As everything came to a head at the end of this book I was both exhausted and satisfied and that’s a huge win in my books. If you are a psychological thriller addict, pick up Blackthorn Wood, you won’t be disappointed.
November 30, 2023
At first i really couldnt see where this book was going. However, the more i read the more i related to cassie as i have been in her shoes, felt how she has felt. Wondered am i actually the problem or is the person causing the issue that has a problem and just pushing it onto me both in school and the workplace. Having been through counselling this year aswell, a lot of what Freddy said and connected together for Cassie has also been said to me and i feel for cassie because its difficukt to hear and dofficult to talk about.
Thoroughly enjpyed the book, it was an easy read and definitly didnt see that ending coming
Thoroughly enjpyed the book, it was an easy read and definitly didnt see that ending coming
October 30, 2023
The author cleverly describes how easy it can be to single out one person and make their lives so miserable and when you think of bullying, it’s more than likely to be among younger people but sadly this isn’t the case here, the plot is engaging and well written and virtually impossible to leave aside, much to my shame , I haven’t read anything else by Paula Hillman which is something I’ll be rectifying very soon. Definitely a five star plus read.
December 5, 2023
My honest thoughts..
I honestly don't know why I haven't come across this author before, I'm totally glad I have now!
I really enjoyed her writing style, so smooth and straightforward.
This book gripped me from the every start! With it being slightly unsettling at times, as ive been bullied in the past, it was right up my street, had me on the edge and unable to put this down! With a nice happy ending..
It was a quick read for me and can't wait to read more from this author
I honestly don't know why I haven't come across this author before, I'm totally glad I have now!
I really enjoyed her writing style, so smooth and straightforward.
This book gripped me from the every start! With it being slightly unsettling at times, as ive been bullied in the past, it was right up my street, had me on the edge and unable to put this down! With a nice happy ending..
It was a quick read for me and can't wait to read more from this author
December 6, 2023
Bullying is never OK! Adults behaving in such a way in an educational setting is horrible. Poor Cassie is treated terrible for something that was beyond her control. An unsupportive Head Teacher did nothing to help the situation. I did feel like it was building up to some huge bang but was left a bit disappointed. I really liked Freddy as a character. Overall a good book showing the effects bullying can have on a person.
November 14, 2023
Absolutely a new author for me,
This is a story about Being bullied
A story that will pull you in . For Cassie, it was so much more... Being the new teacher. Learning to cope with So much. Getting through everything.
This was a different type of book for me.
But I enjoyed it..
The author has a way with words.
Thank you for a wonderful read.
This is a story about Being bullied
A story that will pull you in . For Cassie, it was so much more... Being the new teacher. Learning to cope with So much. Getting through everything.
This was a different type of book for me.
But I enjoyed it..
The author has a way with words.
Thank you for a wonderful read.
November 5, 2023
This is a story of workplace bullying and the effects it can have on people’s lives. Cassie was a victim and when she finally seeks help from a therapist the truth comes tumbling out. It really brings home how our actions can impact other people’s lives, a great moralistic novel.
November 26, 2023
Another great book by Paula Hillman. There is something utterly compelling about a book that has you feeling as much despair as the narrator. This book examines the female relationship and the jealousy and competitiveness that sadly seems to flow within them. I'm look forward to the next book Paula as you never disappoint.
November 27, 2023
Complicated topic if workplace bullying to tackle while promising psychological suspense and with the preconceived notion that it should be fast paced. Well thought out plan on development of characters and a page turner. I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book.
November 29, 2023
Grabs your attention, sucks you in and has you engrossed and entertained immediately!! An intense topic that the style of writing totally captures and brings you into the victims feelings and mind! A new author for me to thoroughly enjoy and have me now getting other books!! Deep, intense read !
November 30, 2023
Absolutely loved this book, I couldn’t put it down. It’s a slow burn, thoroughly exploring the issue of workplace bullying and the devastating effects it can have. Great book with well written characters that were easy to identify and empathise with
October 29, 2023
Brilliant book. The setting, both school and home came alive, as did the characters. Read in one day as I couldn’t put it down.
November 20, 2023
An easy paced read, no real twists & turns, but i felt the panic the anxiety and the stress of the characters. Cassie Clifton showed what it is like to be bullied and not believed, i really felt for her.
An uncomfortabley fantastic read
An uncomfortabley fantastic read
November 27, 2023
I received this book for free from Bloodhound Books.
This book is a very engaging read about work place bullying.
It was chilling in the things that were done to Cassie.
I was very absorbed.
This book is a very engaging read about work place bullying.
It was chilling in the things that were done to Cassie.
I was very absorbed.
November 17, 2023
A very enjoyable story about adult bullying in the workplace. Beautifully written characters and an appealing writing style.
December 1, 2023
Book Review: Blackthorn Wood by Paula Hillman
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
In Blackthorn Wood, Paula Hillman delivers a gripping tale that explores the dangerous consequences of workplace bullying. The story follows Cassie Clifton, a former deputy head teacher who has been deeply affected by the cruelty she experienced. Haunted by the events, Cassie has secluded herself for the past two years, until her husband encourages her to seek therapy to confront her trauma. Through the eyes of Cassie's therapist, Freddy, we witness the turmoil of her shattered mental health and the malevolent forces still at play.
The subject matter of workplace bullying tackled in this novel is not only timely but also incredibly relevant. Hillman masterfully delves into the intricacies of this cruel phenomenon, shedding light on the fact that it can affect individuals at any stage of life. The author's approach to the subject is both insightful and thought-provoking, serving as a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk within human interactions.
The writing style in Blackthorn Wood is slow-burning, setting it apart from the fast-paced thrillers I often find myself reading. Despite the deliberate pace, Hillman manages to create a captivating story that gradually unravels, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists along the way. What truly sets this book apart is the author's attention to detail. Hillman's descriptive prose effectively transports readers into the setting, allowing for a deep connection with the characters and their struggles.
Blackthorn Wood is a remarkable read that tackles important contemporary issues seldom explored in fiction. Hillman's skilful storytelling and exploration of workplace bullying make this book a standout choice for readers looking for a thought-provoking and engrossing read. I highly recommend adding Blackthorn Wood to your reading list and immersing yourself in this compelling narrative. Don't hesitate, purchase or download it now.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
In Blackthorn Wood, Paula Hillman delivers a gripping tale that explores the dangerous consequences of workplace bullying. The story follows Cassie Clifton, a former deputy head teacher who has been deeply affected by the cruelty she experienced. Haunted by the events, Cassie has secluded herself for the past two years, until her husband encourages her to seek therapy to confront her trauma. Through the eyes of Cassie's therapist, Freddy, we witness the turmoil of her shattered mental health and the malevolent forces still at play.
The subject matter of workplace bullying tackled in this novel is not only timely but also incredibly relevant. Hillman masterfully delves into the intricacies of this cruel phenomenon, shedding light on the fact that it can affect individuals at any stage of life. The author's approach to the subject is both insightful and thought-provoking, serving as a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk within human interactions.
The writing style in Blackthorn Wood is slow-burning, setting it apart from the fast-paced thrillers I often find myself reading. Despite the deliberate pace, Hillman manages to create a captivating story that gradually unravels, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists along the way. What truly sets this book apart is the author's attention to detail. Hillman's descriptive prose effectively transports readers into the setting, allowing for a deep connection with the characters and their struggles.
Blackthorn Wood is a remarkable read that tackles important contemporary issues seldom explored in fiction. Hillman's skilful storytelling and exploration of workplace bullying make this book a standout choice for readers looking for a thought-provoking and engrossing read. I highly recommend adding Blackthorn Wood to your reading list and immersing yourself in this compelling narrative. Don't hesitate, purchase or download it now.
December 4, 2023
Paula Hillman does an outstanding job of telling Cassie's story with workplace bullying. This is the story of a very professional woman, Cassie, who is a teacher at a prestigious primary school in England. She is recently promoted to Deputy Head (kind of like a Vice Principal) along with her teaching duties. This promotion brings out the claws in the staff members who start a strange coalition against Cassie to create an environment where she questions everything about herself. Ultimately leading to extreme anxiety where she can no longer leave her house.
From the beginning of the story, you're immersed in the re-telling of her experience through the long months of this development and bullying. I could feel Cassie's anxiety acutely and relate with my own experiences of heightened fear over situations and people. It's a scary experience to feel that way and it's incredibly crippling. But Paula tells it straight and truthfully with how situations that seems so innocuous can turn you in on yourself completely.
While the story is meant to focus on the elements of anxiety and overcoming those challenges, Paula also does a great job of showing the support mechanisms that Cassie had around her to keep her head above water. Mainly her husband and her daughters who never left her side or removed their support for her. Bullying is a very serious thing and happens in more contexts than we really give credit to.
A thrilling read about real-life scenarios where everything can change and create a hostile environment that makes it nearly impossible to continue functioning as you normally did.
From the beginning of the story, you're immersed in the re-telling of her experience through the long months of this development and bullying. I could feel Cassie's anxiety acutely and relate with my own experiences of heightened fear over situations and people. It's a scary experience to feel that way and it's incredibly crippling. But Paula tells it straight and truthfully with how situations that seems so innocuous can turn you in on yourself completely.
While the story is meant to focus on the elements of anxiety and overcoming those challenges, Paula also does a great job of showing the support mechanisms that Cassie had around her to keep her head above water. Mainly her husband and her daughters who never left her side or removed their support for her. Bullying is a very serious thing and happens in more contexts than we really give credit to.
A thrilling read about real-life scenarios where everything can change and create a hostile environment that makes it nearly impossible to continue functioning as you normally did.
December 1, 2023
This thriller delves into the often overlooked issue of workplace bullying, a subject many are familiar with but seldom discuss. Given I work in organisational leadership, where we work with organisations to avoid workplace bullying, I was immediately captivated, as this topic hits close to home.
What distinguishes this book is its unique take on a challenging subject. Unlike traditional text-book material on workplace bullying, Hillman's fictional approach is raw, intense, and serves as a stark reminder that bullying isn't confined to a specific stage of life but how it can start early and persist into adulthood, offering an eye-opening perspective and raising awareness. This being my first Hillman read, I'm now eager to explore her other works.
My heart went out to Cassie as she faced the challenges of the past two years. Hillman's writing is incredibly emotive, allowing readers to feel Cassie's despair as if it were their own—a true testament to the author's skill.
Adding a layer of intrigue, the book also falls into the thriller genre, featuring twists that I won't spoil for you. You'll have to read the book to experience them yourself!
Once I started, I found it impossible to put the book down. It drew me in, and I became completely engrossed—a must-read for those who appreciate thrilling fiction that tackles real-world issues.
And let's take a moment to appreciate the beautiful cover. Its significance took on new meaning for me after reading the book, adding another layer to its already captivating design.
A solid 4.5/5!
What distinguishes this book is its unique take on a challenging subject. Unlike traditional text-book material on workplace bullying, Hillman's fictional approach is raw, intense, and serves as a stark reminder that bullying isn't confined to a specific stage of life but how it can start early and persist into adulthood, offering an eye-opening perspective and raising awareness. This being my first Hillman read, I'm now eager to explore her other works.
My heart went out to Cassie as she faced the challenges of the past two years. Hillman's writing is incredibly emotive, allowing readers to feel Cassie's despair as if it were their own—a true testament to the author's skill.
Adding a layer of intrigue, the book also falls into the thriller genre, featuring twists that I won't spoil for you. You'll have to read the book to experience them yourself!
Once I started, I found it impossible to put the book down. It drew me in, and I became completely engrossed—a must-read for those who appreciate thrilling fiction that tackles real-world issues.
And let's take a moment to appreciate the beautiful cover. Its significance took on new meaning for me after reading the book, adding another layer to its already captivating design.
A solid 4.5/5!
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