They'll Take Everything

by C.H. Connor

David Dale has been running from guilt for three years.

The car accident that killed his family was his fault. Now he has one chance at redemption: opening a charity for families shattered by tragedy.

But that's made him the perfect target.

Days before the launch, anonymous messages begin. Precise. Threatening. Someone’s been watching him. Someone knows exactly how to break him. What begins as extortion becomes a calculated campaign to dismantle David’s life, piece by piece.

The charity launches to national attention — which only makes things worse.

David finds himself targeted by a criminal syndicate who don't leave witnesses. As he unravels the conspiracy, he's forced to confront the past he thought he'd buried. But that's when he realises the terrifying truth.

This isn’t extortion. It’s revenge.

Three years of guilt. Two weeks of terror. One truth that changes everything.

How far would you go to turn heartbreak into hope?

Perfect for fans of Stieg Larsson and Harlan Coben, and for readers who crave layered suspense, emotional depth, and immersive, character-driven stories.

Genres: Suspense

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 16, 2026

About the author

C.H. Connor is the debut author of the psychological crime thriller, THEY'LL TAKE EVERYTHING, released 16 February 2026.

Connor built his career in software before putting pen to paper and publishing his upcoming novel. Connor lives with his partner and son in Manchester, UK.

You can connect with Connor on Instagram. To receive updates on his latest work and upcoming events, you can sign up to his spam-free newsletter at chconnor.com.

Connect on Instagram: ch_connor

Reviews

[Lori Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as a review copy from Booksirens, this is an honest review.

They'll Take Everything, is an unexpected gem of story as readers get to known David Dale; the man has already been a through a Dante level of personal hell.

It costs David all he loves.

But out the ashes, David wants to help those facing their own dark trials with launching a charity that he hopes will change lives. It first, the launch of Down Dream is something off a dream for David and those entrusted to help achieve this wonderful reality. Then... David's situation gets odd and down right dangerous as violent people believe this charity and its owner are easy marks to get money from. As David and his friends begin to feel the heat from shadowy men, David struggles to fight back and keep intact what he wants to achieve.


Highly recommended.

[Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to CH Connor for sending me a copy for an honest review.

We follow Dave, the grieving psychiatrist for three years, running from guilt, making the stakes high and personal.

The story grabbed my attention and keept me hooked in.

This book have guilt, ambition, conspiracy, betrayed, secrets, heartbreak and hope. All the ingredients for a great thriller story.

This is a fantastic debut thriller from C.H Connor.

100% recommend to anyone who loves an unputdownable psychological thriller.

[Ann Onimaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

This tightly constructed thriller thrives on well-timed twists and a steadily escalating sense of unease. Connor builds suspense with patience, allowing secrets to surface gradually and only when they carry the most emotional and narrative weight. This measured unfolding keeps the reader engaged, each revelation feels a little earned and plot divisive.

At the center of the story is our protagonist whose past is cloaked in mystery, particularly surrounding a devastating personal loss. His history is inextricably linked to an underground organization that raises the stakes beyond personal survival, expanding the conflict into something far more dangerous and morally complex. As the narrative progresses, the question is no longer just what happened, but who deserves redemption, and whether redemption is even possible at all. One of the novel’s strongest elements is its moral ambiguity. The protagonist’s current altruistic actions invite the reader to question whether present-day goodness can truly redeem past mistakes, especially when those mistakes altered other people’s lives. Connor also explores intent versus consequence, asking whether it matters if harm was unintentional, or if accountability remains regardless. The antagonist adds another layer of complexity. Though driven by loss and a sense of grief, his pursuit of revenge feel less like justice and more like destruction, especially in his “profession” and his portrayal as the villain is already cemented in the story from his first appearance. This imbalance reinforces the novel’s central tension, particularly as innocent people are pulled into the crossfire, amplifying the emotional weight of the conflict. The supporting cast is well-developed, with the detective assisting the main character standing out as a particularly enjoyable presence. He adds both grounding realism and narrative balance, serving as a counterpoint to the protagonist’s turmoil. The detective’s role strengthens the investigative elements of the story while also humanizing the broader consequences of the unfolding events.

While certain character decisions function clearly as plot devices to drive the story forward, they rarely feel disruptive. They maintain momentum and keep the tension taut. Connor’s atmospheric writing further elevates the novel, with vivid scenery and an immersive tone that reinforces the thriller’s dark, uneasy mood.

The final twist is especially effective which lands with impact, yet rewards attentive readers who may recognize that the groundwork was subtly laid earlier in the story. This balance between surprise and foreshadowing underscores Connor’s careful plotting and respect for the reader.

Overall, They’ll Take Everything is a suspenseful and thought-provoking thriller that blends timed pacing with moral inquiry. It leaves the reader reflecting on guilt, redemption, and the lasting consequences of past actions.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

David dale - a family man, a well respected a psychiatrist, a successful practise he built for the ground up he appears to have the perfect life… Until one day his world is destroyed in a instant, he looses his wife and two daughters in an accident that was his fault.

Three years pass he is still grieving his loss, he has sold his practise and he decides he needs to do something with his life. Then came 'Down Dream" a charity start up with a goal to help everyone. David has put everything he has into this charity with the help of his friends. Then along comes Quentin ready to tear down all of David's hard work, all his dreams and ambitions. The charity, David's life and his friend's lives are all being threatened by Quentin but David will not give in to these criminals! Find out if David is able to save his friends, his charity, himself and even Quentin's wife Rose who has her own tragic story in "They'll take Everything"

This book was so thrilling you find yourself not being able to put it down! The story was well paced throughout there were no sections that i found dragged or difficult to get through. The story unraveled at an even pace which a mixture of sadness and excitement. Although i don't believe this book is like anything iv'e read at least not recently i would say that the excitement aspect would be similar to the feeling i get when reading books by authors such as Jennifer Lynn Barnes and Frieda Mcfadden.

The characters were well thought out and each played an important role in the book. You had 4 people from very different background working together on this amazing charity, Alex a journalist who will do anything to bring light to Quentin's crimes, Mcfield the detective who has been told to back of Quentin, Quentin the crime boss whose answer to everything is violence and i could keep going but i think you should just go and read it and immerse yourself in this incredible story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Priscilla Lawal · Rating 4 out of 5]

They’ll Take Everything starts with an emotional David Dale in his therapist’s office, recounting the trauma induced by losing his beloved family, a tragedy that cost him his practice and left him living as a recluse. After several years of pain and regret, David decides to open a charity helping with homelessness in London. But this beautiful deed soon catches the attention of organized crime, threatening David and his fellow co-founders.

A powerful social figure steps into David's new life, bringing his charity far more attention than he ever expected. This increases public and governmental approval for the philanthropic cause, but things take a dark turn after a break-in at the charity’s office and a cryptic message that sends shivers through the founders of Down Dream. Several occurrences over the following weeks led them into a myriad of tumultuous events.

CH Connor takes the reader through a psychological journey of intense loss, manipulation, and suspense. We're kept in a thrilling maze of trying to figure out who might be the accomplice to this tragic manipulation. David Dale’s strength is highlighted throughout his perseverance to keep the charity going despite severe threats to his life, family, and co-founders.

They’ll Take Everything is a compelling read that gives you the suspense of watching someone face an unknown but persistent enemy. While the story delivers suspense, it follows some familiar patterns and could have been more intense. The unexpected ending, however, makes up for the slower pacing in the middle.

I would recommend They’ll Take Everything to readers who love deeply emotional psychological thrillers, but note there are some darker themes that sensitive readers may want to be aware of. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

They’ll Take Everything is one of those rare suspense novels that blends adrenaline‑sharp pacing with real emotional weight. From the first chapter, David Dale’s grief sits heavy in the air—three years of guilt over the accident that destroyed his family, three years of trying to outrun the life he can’t bear to look at. His attempt to turn pain into purpose by launching a charity for families devastated by tragedy feels both noble and heartbreakingly fragile.

And that’s exactly when the threats begin.

The anonymous messages are chilling in their precision—calculated, intimate, as if the sender has been waiting for David to step into the light just so they can drag him back into darkness. What starts as extortion quickly spirals into something far more orchestrated and personal. The sense of being watched, hunted, and dismantled piece by piece is captured flawlessly.
Once the charity launch draws national attention, the novel shifts into a pulse‑pounding second act. The criminal syndicate targeting David feels truly menacing, and the stakes escalate with every chapter. Yet the book never loses sight of its emotional core: a man trying to make meaning out of his worst mistake, only to realise someone else has been turning that mistake into a blueprint for revenge.

The final reveal lands with the force of a gut punch—dark, human, and disturbingly plausible.

Fans of Stieg Larsson and Harlan Coben will love the mix of layered conspiracy, high tension, and character‑driven depth. This is a thriller that keeps you turning pages while also making you feel every ounce of David’s desperation, resilience, and dawning horror.

A taut, immersive, and surprisingly moving read. I devoured it in one sitting.

With thanks to CH Connor, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Iain Batten · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Christian life coach, pastor, cancer motivational speaker, and forensic psychologist, I have a keen interest in genres that explore themes of serial killers and dark psychological thrillers.

This tightly constructed thriller excels through its expertly timed twists and a steadily escalating sense of unease. Connor masterfully builds suspense, allowing secrets to emerge gradually, revealing themselves only when they hold the most emotional and narrative significance. This deliberate pacing keeps the reader fully engaged, making each revelation feel hard-won and impactful.

Overall, They’ll Take Everything is a suspenseful and thought-provoking novel that intertwines meticulous pacing with moral exploration. It prompts readers to reflect on themes of guilt, redemption, and the enduring consequences of past actions. The book is so compelling that it becomes difficult to set aside. The narrative maintains a consistent pace, with no sections feeling overly drawn out or tedious. Instead, it unfolds at an even rhythm, evoking a blend of sadness and excitement. With an intriguing premise and likable characters introduced from the very first chapters, the story captivates the reader’s attention from the outset.

I received an advance review copy at no cost, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to Connor for the ARC.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has an interesting premise and from the first few chapters it draws you in with likeable characters - Bev was easily my favourite, I found her humour a highlight to the story! Connecting with characters is important to me so I liked how the author developed the main character David in a way that made it easy to connect with him.

For me, the pacing felt unsteady. It was mostly slow-paced which made it difficult to maintain much tension. The story does pick up towards the end as everything ties together. I especially enjoyed the final twists which were well executed and unexpected.

With a faster pace and a few more twists earlier in the story, this would have been an even stronger read for me. This will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy a slow-burn, character-driven story.

Thank you so much to the author C.H. Connor for this ARC! I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Melanie Ollila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you CH Connor for sharing your book with me in exchange for my review.

The book starts with a good hook and premise. A grieving recluse reclaims his life by opening a charity to help others suffering.

There are a lot of characters in this book, I especially liked Bev and Allen. The villains were cunning and sinister, you just had creepy feels and the anticipation was unnerving.

The pace was slow to medium, there were a few chapters that I found myself a little lost with the various players and how David found himself in a couple of situations. I still have mixed feelings about his interactions with Rose, but I also get the why.

I wish Alex, the journalist, and Detective McField had been bigger narrators especially in unraveling the mystery, they deserved more focus. I feel like they have the potential to have their own story if there’s a sequel.

I was surprised by the twist at the ending, but not the who, bravo!

Overall, 3.5-3.75 stars!

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Straightforward, tense and slow-burning ⚡️

This was one of those books I picked up “just to read a chapter” before going to bed and suddenly couldn’t put down. The pacing keeps pulling you in without ever feeling too heavy! The writing is clear and easy to follow, which made it perfect for an evening read (and an unplanned very late night😅) or a laid-back weekend.

What really stood out to me was the author’s attention to detail. The descriptions of the surroundings and characters are seamlessly woven into the dialogue, making every scene feel vivid and almost cinematic. I could clearly picture the settings, the movements, the atmosphere. It all felt INCREDIBLY alive!!

And there’s the ending… The final twist was genuinely shocking and completely unexpected. It left a strong lasting impression🫣

Overall, this is a gripping, accessible crime thriller that delivers tension and a powerful payoff without trying to be overly complicated.

[Diane Elizabeth Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philanthropy, power and pretence! What a fantastic read! ​After three years of living in isolation to escape a haunting personal tragedy, David emerges with a singular mission: to give back.
He establishes Down Dream, a charity born from his desire to heal and give back to society.
However, this slow-burning thriller proves that even the best intentions can invite evil and  darkness. ​
The story oozes power, corruption, and extortion, keeping me reading late into the night. Is everyone involved as committed as they pretend to be? The characters are exceptionally well-defined, especially Bev. I absolutely adored her, she is funny, empathetic, and refreshingly straight-talking while fiercely loyal. ​
The narrative tension ramps up significantly in the second half, escalating toward a totally unexpected ending. For fans of suspense, this is a must-read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all views expressed are my own.

[Louise Gaskell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, tense, and quietly unsettling, They’ll Take Everything is a thriller that combines emotions and suspense. It’s a starts as a slow burn, but when the pace accelerates, it does so with purpose, and the dark emotional weight really hits 🥊

The main Character, David is an ordinary man who has worked hard for what he has, only to lose far more than he ever expected 💔 His fear, confusion, and determination feel painfully real, and the way grief and guilt shape his choices gives the story that edge.

This isn’t just a crime story.  It’s about consequences, morality, and how easily good intentions can be turned against us 😵

Overall, this is a gripping and thoughtful thriller that stays with you long after the final page. An impressive debut, proving thrillers can have heart 🩷

Thank you to @ch_connor for sending me a ARC.  I really hope you have another book in the pipeline soon, as I'm eager to read more! 🥰

[Maddie Weeks · Rating 4 out of 5]

C H Connor kindly reached out to me and asked if I’d like the chance to read and provide an honest review of They’ll Take Everything and I jumped at the chance as it sounded right up my street.

I was blown away with this debut novel. It is fantastically written and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The story follows David a grieving psychiatrist who wants to help people and sets up his own charity but he is fighting demons and some really bad people..

I loved the character of Bev, I thought she was great and really brought something to the story.

I was engaged and hooked throughout, the suspense is built from the start and the ending had me audibly gasping, I was not expecting it.

I do think at times the switch between characters wasn’t entirely clear but that could have just been me!

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a twisty psychological thriller.

I give this 4 stars!

Thank you for asking me to read and review!

[Eloise Mohan · Rating 5 out of 5]

3 years after the fatal accident that took away David Dale's family and made him give up his own psychiatry practice, he is ready to utilise his grief and build a charity for anybody and everybody.

However, the high profile accident, and his well known wealth make him the perfect target for criminal organisations.

They'll Take Everything starts off as quite a slowburn story, but in all the best ways. It allows the readers to fully empathise with David's situation and get a good feel for his character. It also allows the suspense of the story to build nicely, hinting that there is more to the story than we are originally led to believe.
David's character is passionate and driven, and it is really easy to completely invest yourself in rooting for his success.

I was immediately suspicious of some of the characters and their intentions, and was itching to read on and find out what it was that wasn't sitting right with me. Despite this, the ending still shocked me.

This story has everything; crime Lords, celebrities, revenge, drama, and more. Its emotional and completely captivating. A real page turner.

Highly recommend you check this out if you're into action packed psychological thrillers.
Publication date: February 16th 2026

[Zoe Forever Reading 16 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This does not feel like a debut book at all, and I will definitely be reading whatever Connor writes in future. I loved the writing style which enabled me to get invested from the first page to the last page. I didn’t want to put it down. Following David three years after a tragedy and him starting a charity to try and bring something positive and meaningful to people’s lives. You can tell Connor has taken the time to map out where the story was going and the thought that’s gone into it. A brilliant psychological thriller packed with tension, unease, emotion, hope, friendship and twists and turns. I highly recommend people picking up They’ll Take Everything. I can’t wait to see what Connor writes next.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

They'll Take Everything by C. H. Connor is a tense psychological suspense thriller about David Dale, a man haunted by the guilt of causing his family's death. As he seeks redemption by launching a charity, he becomes the target of anonymous threats that escalate into a campaign of revenge. The story is filled with shocking twists, well-developed characters, and themes of guilt, justice, and confronting the past. Praised for its tight pacing and emotional depth, the book is highly recommended for fans of psychological and crime thrillers.

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love thrillers, especially if it’s based in London so this was right up my alley. It was easy to read and came together creatively. There were some plot points that felt too oversimplified for my preference and I also would have appreciated a little more character and relationship development, but overall an enjoyable read.

Received a copy from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a slow burn suspense. The action didn't really begin until after chapter 9. And even then, it was not really gripping. I did get more into it towards the end, but overall, I felt something was missing.

[Tara Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a slower read for me, but They’ll Take Everything by C.H. Connor is undeniably detailed and thoughtfully constructed. With multiple story elements in play and twists sprinkled throughout, it’s the kind of book that steadily builds toward a strong, memorable ending.