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The Key to Death's Door
If you could discover the murderous truth of a past life and seek justice in this one, would you?
Teenager Lee Hunter doesn’t have a choice when he nearly drowns after spending the night at a derelict boathouse with his best friend, Charlie Finch. After leaving his body and meeting a mysterious light, Lee is sent back to relive the final days of another life. A life that ended tragically.
After recovering from his near death experience, Lee begins to realise that he is part of two lives linked by the despicable actions of one man.
Struggling against impossible odds, Lee and Charlie set out to bring this man to justice.
Will Lee be able to unlock the past and bring justice to the future?
The Key to Death’s Door is a story of sacrifice, friendship, loyalty and murder.
Teenager Lee Hunter doesn’t have a choice when he nearly drowns after spending the night at a derelict boathouse with his best friend, Charlie Finch. After leaving his body and meeting a mysterious light, Lee is sent back to relive the final days of another life. A life that ended tragically.
After recovering from his near death experience, Lee begins to realise that he is part of two lives linked by the despicable actions of one man.
Struggling against impossible odds, Lee and Charlie set out to bring this man to justice.
Will Lee be able to unlock the past and bring justice to the future?
The Key to Death’s Door is a story of sacrifice, friendship, loyalty and murder.
316 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2018
52 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Mark Tilbury
27 books279 followersMark lives in a small village in the lovely county of Cumbria, although his books are set in Oxfordshire where he was born and raised.
He's always had a keen interest in writing and after being widowed and raising his two daughters, Mark finally took the plunge and began self-publishing. Mark's writing has earned him the name #TwistedTilbury due to the dark and twisted nature of his books. He's published 12 thrillers, and his 13th novel, A Womb With A View, will be published Jan 19th 2023.
When he's not writing, Mark can be found playing guitar, reading and walking.
Did you know that you can follow authors on Amazon? If you hit the 'follow' button on my author page, you'll be kept updated of any price reductions and new publications.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mark-Tilbury...
Thank you!
He's always had a keen interest in writing and after being widowed and raising his two daughters, Mark finally took the plunge and began self-publishing. Mark's writing has earned him the name #TwistedTilbury due to the dark and twisted nature of his books. He's published 12 thrillers, and his 13th novel, A Womb With A View, will be published Jan 19th 2023.
When he's not writing, Mark can be found playing guitar, reading and walking.
Did you know that you can follow authors on Amazon? If you hit the 'follow' button on my author page, you'll be kept updated of any price reductions and new publications.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mark-Tilbury...
Thank you!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 20, 2018
EXCERPT: The day before I died started off pretty much like any other. Up at seven. Breakfast. Ready for school. Just one slight difference: me and my best mate Charlie Finch had cooked up a plan to tell our parents we were sleeping at each other's houses.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: If you could discover the murderous truth of a past life and seek justice in this one, would you?
Teenager Lee Hunter doesn’t have a choice when he nearly drowns after spending the night at a derelict boathouse with his best friend, Charlie Finch. After leaving his body and meeting a mysterious light, Lee is sent back to relive the final days of another life. A life that ended tragically.
After recovering from his near death experience, Lee begins to realise that he is part of two lives linked by the despicable actions of one man.
Struggling against impossible odds, Lee and Charlie set out to bring this man to justice.
Will Lee be able to unlock the past and bring justice to the future?
MY THOUGHTS: The Key to Death's Door by Mark Tilbury blew my socks off! How have I missed reading this author before? Why has no one ever pointed me in his direction? This book is so good on so many different levels that I don't know where to begin. . .
The main character is 14 year old Lee Hunter. Typical boy and his best mate Charlie, who has 'the brain of a chicken and the heart of a lion, of whom his mother doesn’t approve. Doing boy stuff. Going where they aren't supposed to when they are supposed to be somewhere else. We've all done it. But for Lee it starts off a series of strange, and for the reader compelling, horrific events.
His friend Charlie's father, Daryl Finch, is one of the most evil characters I have ever come across. He has 'awful eyes which seemed detached from humanity'. He made my skin crawl. I wanted to go take a shower. And then in direct contrast, we have Lee's sweet nostalgic memories from when he was Paul.
Author Mark Tilbury is a great writer. I know of few other writers who can switch from darkly disturbing to paranormal to sweet nostalgia like that and carry it off with such finesse. I highlighted so many passages in this book that I wanted to quote in my review that you would have been reading almost the whole book. So instead I stuck with the beginning of the opening paragraph which I loved, because you just know that things are not going to go to plan for these boys. And that is the understatement of the year. 'I was soon to learn that good ideas never came along when you were desperate. Just a series of bad ones. And even worse ones. They seemed to breed off one another until it's no longer possible to see the difference between right and wrong. ' As to the rest of it, read it for yourself. You won't regret it. This is a highly recommended 5 exploding star read.
I am even going to recommend The Key to Death's Door as a young-adult read. I would have loved it then as much as I love it now.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of The Key to Death's Door by Mark Tilbury for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT THIS BOOK: If you could discover the murderous truth of a past life and seek justice in this one, would you?
Teenager Lee Hunter doesn’t have a choice when he nearly drowns after spending the night at a derelict boathouse with his best friend, Charlie Finch. After leaving his body and meeting a mysterious light, Lee is sent back to relive the final days of another life. A life that ended tragically.
After recovering from his near death experience, Lee begins to realise that he is part of two lives linked by the despicable actions of one man.
Struggling against impossible odds, Lee and Charlie set out to bring this man to justice.
Will Lee be able to unlock the past and bring justice to the future?
MY THOUGHTS: The Key to Death's Door by Mark Tilbury blew my socks off! How have I missed reading this author before? Why has no one ever pointed me in his direction? This book is so good on so many different levels that I don't know where to begin. . .
The main character is 14 year old Lee Hunter. Typical boy and his best mate Charlie, who has 'the brain of a chicken and the heart of a lion, of whom his mother doesn’t approve. Doing boy stuff. Going where they aren't supposed to when they are supposed to be somewhere else. We've all done it. But for Lee it starts off a series of strange, and for the reader compelling, horrific events.
His friend Charlie's father, Daryl Finch, is one of the most evil characters I have ever come across. He has 'awful eyes which seemed detached from humanity'. He made my skin crawl. I wanted to go take a shower. And then in direct contrast, we have Lee's sweet nostalgic memories from when he was Paul.
Author Mark Tilbury is a great writer. I know of few other writers who can switch from darkly disturbing to paranormal to sweet nostalgia like that and carry it off with such finesse. I highlighted so many passages in this book that I wanted to quote in my review that you would have been reading almost the whole book. So instead I stuck with the beginning of the opening paragraph which I loved, because you just know that things are not going to go to plan for these boys. And that is the understatement of the year. 'I was soon to learn that good ideas never came along when you were desperate. Just a series of bad ones. And even worse ones. They seemed to breed off one another until it's no longer possible to see the difference between right and wrong. ' As to the rest of it, read it for yourself. You won't regret it. This is a highly recommended 5 exploding star read.
I am even going to recommend The Key to Death's Door as a young-adult read. I would have loved it then as much as I love it now.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of The Key to Death's Door by Mark Tilbury for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 12, 2018
After reading a Mark Tilbury book you never know quite what to expect.
Expect the unexpected I’d say!
I’ve read a previous book by this author which I thoroughly enjoyed even though it veered towards a genre I never read, but he writes in such a great dialogue that you get immersed in it.
That was like this one.
I had read Wimmera which starts off with boys being boys and getting into mischief, going off and and covering for each other.
But that’s where the similarities end.
At first I was thinking this might go in the YA genre too, I still think it should be.
At first I wasn’t sure about this book, it was great dialogue between the boys.
They’re retorts, their annoyance with each other and the different anxieties that were portrayed by each young boy.
By the time I got to the halfway mark I found myself quite invested in the story.
If I’d have know or realised the track it went I probably wouldn’t have read it as anything remotely ghostly or supernatural or life after death gives me palpitations.
But it’s written in such a way you don’t focus on those elements.
I ended up enjoying this a lot.
That’s the great penmanship of this author.
Expect the unexpected I’d say!
I’ve read a previous book by this author which I thoroughly enjoyed even though it veered towards a genre I never read, but he writes in such a great dialogue that you get immersed in it.
That was like this one.
I had read Wimmera which starts off with boys being boys and getting into mischief, going off and and covering for each other.
But that’s where the similarities end.
At first I was thinking this might go in the YA genre too, I still think it should be.
At first I wasn’t sure about this book, it was great dialogue between the boys.
They’re retorts, their annoyance with each other and the different anxieties that were portrayed by each young boy.
By the time I got to the halfway mark I found myself quite invested in the story.
If I’d have know or realised the track it went I probably wouldn’t have read it as anything remotely ghostly or supernatural or life after death gives me palpitations.
But it’s written in such a way you don’t focus on those elements.
I ended up enjoying this a lot.
That’s the great penmanship of this author.
January 30, 2020
A Teenager Drowns....Only to Experience A 'New' Life, That Is Old...
An extremely engaging story that pulls you into the life of a young teenager who experiences some strange moments when he drops to the river floor trying to swim to shore. The boy, Lee, has a hard time believing what is happening, but soon is back in a different life, years before his other life!
There is friendship,fear, love and gory moments...A thoroughly enjoyable story that enlightens you to different beliefs and a paranormal feel ...But deep love can endure
An extremely engaging story that pulls you into the life of a young teenager who experiences some strange moments when he drops to the river floor trying to swim to shore. The boy, Lee, has a hard time believing what is happening, but soon is back in a different life, years before his other life!
There is friendship,fear, love and gory moments...A thoroughly enjoyable story that enlightens you to different beliefs and a paranormal feel ...But deep love can endure
August 30, 2022
Wow, first read by Mark Tilbury and I was seriously impressed.
The book started with suspense and tension, and straight away I loved how Tilbury wrote the characters- with an air of validity and belief.
The pace is strong throughout and I was caught up in the story- there is a lot of action to keep track of!
I would definitely read more of this author!
The book started with suspense and tension, and straight away I loved how Tilbury wrote the characters- with an air of validity and belief.
The pace is strong throughout and I was caught up in the story- there is a lot of action to keep track of!
I would definitely read more of this author!
April 16, 2018
There is something wholly unique about Mark Tilbury’s writing, yes there’s always some supernatural elements that sets them apart from most thrillers, but it’s much more complex than that. Maybe it’s the concepts he comes up with for his premises, maybe it’s his dark, gritty writing style or maybe it’s his ability to examine the very evil depths of humanity in a way that’s both frightening and fascinating. Whatever it is doesn’t really matter in the end because the combination of it all makes for a gripping read every single time and I’ll always read any of his new books.
Reincarnation is explored here and while I don’t necessarily believe in it, it’s a very interesting topic. Lee is a young man who has a terrible experience with a near drowning and something happens during it that’s unexplainable. It’s like he’s transported to an entirely different life in a different place and time and while he’s scared witless, he’s also very curious as to what this all means and why it seems to be connected to his real life. I adored Lee and his best friend Charlie, they had a special relationship and the way they joked and teased each other made me laugh and lightened the heavy mood.
As always, Tilbury has crafted the ultimate villain, the type of character that chills you to the core. I hated this man with a passion, no one can evoke anger in me better than this author, and no one can keep me frantically flipping pages to see what happens next quite like he can either. The intensity was electrifying by the end and my heart was in my throat. If you don’t mind a supernatural twist in your thrillers, please check this one out, or really any of his other books.
The Key to Death’s Door in three words: Menacing, Horrifying and Gripping.
Reincarnation is explored here and while I don’t necessarily believe in it, it’s a very interesting topic. Lee is a young man who has a terrible experience with a near drowning and something happens during it that’s unexplainable. It’s like he’s transported to an entirely different life in a different place and time and while he’s scared witless, he’s also very curious as to what this all means and why it seems to be connected to his real life. I adored Lee and his best friend Charlie, they had a special relationship and the way they joked and teased each other made me laugh and lightened the heavy mood.
As always, Tilbury has crafted the ultimate villain, the type of character that chills you to the core. I hated this man with a passion, no one can evoke anger in me better than this author, and no one can keep me frantically flipping pages to see what happens next quite like he can either. The intensity was electrifying by the end and my heart was in my throat. If you don’t mind a supernatural twist in your thrillers, please check this one out, or really any of his other books.
The Key to Death’s Door in three words: Menacing, Horrifying and Gripping.
April 16, 2018
Flippin’ heck! What even?! I have no idea how to review this sheer awesomeness at all!
I’m sure I’ve mentioned before, probably also in a review for the same author, that I don’t normally read paranormal or supernatural stories but for Mark Tilbury, I gladly make an exception and I don’t regret a single second of it. This is the third book in this genre that I’ve read by him and once again, it completely blew me away!
So, see that book description at the top of the page? Yes, that’s all you’re going to get from me where the plot is concerned. Why though, I hear you ask? Because I actually tried to explain it to the OH and the poor man got horribly confused. What you really need to know is that most of the story is set in the present day, while some of it regards events from thirty years earlier. These two periods are linked by one character and what a character it is!
As I’ve come to expect from this author, that particular character is one of the most despicable, vile and evil men ever to roam the planet! Very few people come up with someone so incredibly disturbing but Mark Tilbury manages it in every single book of his I’ve read so far. The only relief from all the heinous acts comes in the form of the friendship between Lee and Charlie in the present, and two other characters in the past. Everyone should have a friend like them and in the midst of the horror, I regularly found myself smiling at their banter.
The Key to Death’s door doesn’t exactly make for comfortable reading. It is an incredibly dark and harrowing tale of abuse, of not always being able to protect your family no matter how hard you try and of seeking justice. It’s a hard-hitting, well-written, compelling, gritty and thought-provoking story that, days later, still has me utterly reeling.
If you’re a fan of Mark Tilbury’s books, I have no doubt you will love this one as much as I did. If you haven’t yet discovered this author, I highly recommend you take the time to get caught up. In the meantime I’m off to firmly add him to my list of go-to authors and (im)patiently await his next offering, which I’m sure will rock my socks off just as much as this one did. No pressure, sir.
I’m sure I’ve mentioned before, probably also in a review for the same author, that I don’t normally read paranormal or supernatural stories but for Mark Tilbury, I gladly make an exception and I don’t regret a single second of it. This is the third book in this genre that I’ve read by him and once again, it completely blew me away!
So, see that book description at the top of the page? Yes, that’s all you’re going to get from me where the plot is concerned. Why though, I hear you ask? Because I actually tried to explain it to the OH and the poor man got horribly confused. What you really need to know is that most of the story is set in the present day, while some of it regards events from thirty years earlier. These two periods are linked by one character and what a character it is!
As I’ve come to expect from this author, that particular character is one of the most despicable, vile and evil men ever to roam the planet! Very few people come up with someone so incredibly disturbing but Mark Tilbury manages it in every single book of his I’ve read so far. The only relief from all the heinous acts comes in the form of the friendship between Lee and Charlie in the present, and two other characters in the past. Everyone should have a friend like them and in the midst of the horror, I regularly found myself smiling at their banter.
The Key to Death’s door doesn’t exactly make for comfortable reading. It is an incredibly dark and harrowing tale of abuse, of not always being able to protect your family no matter how hard you try and of seeking justice. It’s a hard-hitting, well-written, compelling, gritty and thought-provoking story that, days later, still has me utterly reeling.
If you’re a fan of Mark Tilbury’s books, I have no doubt you will love this one as much as I did. If you haven’t yet discovered this author, I highly recommend you take the time to get caught up. In the meantime I’m off to firmly add him to my list of go-to authors and (im)patiently await his next offering, which I’m sure will rock my socks off just as much as this one did. No pressure, sir.
April 23, 2018
I’m a big fan of Mark Tilbury’s writing, his books are normally dark and disturbing and The Key To Death’s Door is definitely both of these things. I should mention this probably isn’t one for the faint hearted there is strong language and violence, but if you dare to read it I’m sure like me you will find it a riveting read. I’m not going to rehash the plot details as all you need to know is in the book description, but suffice to say with elements of the paranormal running throughout it made this book a highly original albeit a very disturbing read.
Mark Tilbury’s imagination knows no bounds, he pushes boundaries, delves into the deepest corners of the human mind and comes up with the most original and twisted plots. The author takes the ugliest traits in humans and turns them into living, breathing characters, that you will end up despising for their cruelty to others, but you read on hoping that “karma” catches up with them! One of the characters actually made my skin crawl, they were the devil incarnated . I found myself screaming with frustration and anger at this vile excuse for a human being. When an author can evoke such intense emotions in me then they deserve high praise indeed.
A perpetual sense of doom radiates from the pages, I found myself constantly holding my breath as The Key To Death’s Door grew darker and more sinister at each turn of the page. Even though this book pushes the realms of credibility I was happy to immerse myself in this very disturbing and at times emotional read. Mark Tilbury has a unique knack of writing about the unthinkable but then adds moments of tenderness and humour which prevent his books from becoming a depressive read. I especially found the relationship between Lee and Charlie endearing, at times I couldn’t help but become emotionally involved in their relationship, now that was something I wasn’t expecting.
If you have been put of by the supernatural element I would urge you to think again, The Key To Death’s Door has so much more to offer, it’s thought provoking, gritty and at times very emotional. If I had to describe Mark Tilbury’s books using only one word it would have to be “unpredictable” no two books are the same, which make his books such a thrill to read. Highly recommended if you are looking for a gripping thriller outside the norm.
Mark Tilbury’s imagination knows no bounds, he pushes boundaries, delves into the deepest corners of the human mind and comes up with the most original and twisted plots. The author takes the ugliest traits in humans and turns them into living, breathing characters, that you will end up despising for their cruelty to others, but you read on hoping that “karma” catches up with them! One of the characters actually made my skin crawl, they were the devil incarnated . I found myself screaming with frustration and anger at this vile excuse for a human being. When an author can evoke such intense emotions in me then they deserve high praise indeed.
A perpetual sense of doom radiates from the pages, I found myself constantly holding my breath as The Key To Death’s Door grew darker and more sinister at each turn of the page. Even though this book pushes the realms of credibility I was happy to immerse myself in this very disturbing and at times emotional read. Mark Tilbury has a unique knack of writing about the unthinkable but then adds moments of tenderness and humour which prevent his books from becoming a depressive read. I especially found the relationship between Lee and Charlie endearing, at times I couldn’t help but become emotionally involved in their relationship, now that was something I wasn’t expecting.
If you have been put of by the supernatural element I would urge you to think again, The Key To Death’s Door has so much more to offer, it’s thought provoking, gritty and at times very emotional. If I had to describe Mark Tilbury’s books using only one word it would have to be “unpredictable” no two books are the same, which make his books such a thrill to read. Highly recommended if you are looking for a gripping thriller outside the norm.
April 16, 2018
I really enjoyed the friendship between Lee and Charlie. They are just your typical best friends. After Lee’s near death experience the two become tighter than ever.
There is a certain amount of super natural element to the story line with Lee’s outer body experience. I was slightly concerned as to whether I would find it believable but that didn’t really matter as the story had me well and truly gripped so that I couldn’t read through the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. I for one am a believer in outer body experiences but at the end of the day it is a work of fiction and a very darn good one at that.
The Key To Death’s Door tackles a few harrowing topics. Some parts make for some highly emotional reading which is something I have come to expect from this authors books. He really has has you feeling a whole array of emotions. I was not only shocked and horrified in parts, I was also deeply saddened and anxious, and yet the friendship between both boys was something so wonderful that made me smile and my heart swell with pride.
This is another heart breaking and gut wrenching novel that will stick with me for a long time to come. What should be the best years of two young boys lives is turned upside down with discovery and a fight for justice. A story that will send your pulse racing and your heart soaring. Another utterly brilliant novel by one of my favourite authors.
My Thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
There is a certain amount of super natural element to the story line with Lee’s outer body experience. I was slightly concerned as to whether I would find it believable but that didn’t really matter as the story had me well and truly gripped so that I couldn’t read through the pages fast enough to see what was going to happen next. I for one am a believer in outer body experiences but at the end of the day it is a work of fiction and a very darn good one at that.
The Key To Death’s Door tackles a few harrowing topics. Some parts make for some highly emotional reading which is something I have come to expect from this authors books. He really has has you feeling a whole array of emotions. I was not only shocked and horrified in parts, I was also deeply saddened and anxious, and yet the friendship between both boys was something so wonderful that made me smile and my heart swell with pride.
This is another heart breaking and gut wrenching novel that will stick with me for a long time to come. What should be the best years of two young boys lives is turned upside down with discovery and a fight for justice. A story that will send your pulse racing and your heart soaring. Another utterly brilliant novel by one of my favourite authors.
My Thanks to Bloodhound Books and NetGalley for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
April 20, 2018
This is my first read by this author and it certainly won’t be my last as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Lee and Charlie are the best of friends. An accident changes their lives and proves how strong their friendship is. I don’t want to say any more about the storyline. You really need to read this without spoilers.
I didn’t realise this had a supernatural theme to it. I’m glad I didn’t know or I may have missed out on this gem.
The Key to Deaths Door is a well written dark and gruesome read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
Lee and Charlie are the best of friends. An accident changes their lives and proves how strong their friendship is. I don’t want to say any more about the storyline. You really need to read this without spoilers.
I didn’t realise this had a supernatural theme to it. I’m glad I didn’t know or I may have missed out on this gem.
The Key to Deaths Door is a well written dark and gruesome read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
March 23, 2018
Lee Hunter 14 years old lives at home with his mum, his dad having departed. Mum works long hours as a nurse to compensate for the drop in income. This offers Lee the opportunity to go adventuring with his best friend Charlie Finch. One afternoon they decide to go exploring crossing a nearby river in a flimsy rubber dingy. The following morning the boat has vanished and the boys have no choice but to swim for home. A disaster occurs and Lee sinks to the bottom of the river where an out of body experience see him transported back in time some 30 years.
In this bygone era Lee has been transformed into a teenager known as Paul Collins and has his first painful experience of meeting a young very evil Daryl Finch, Charlie Finch's father. The elder Finch sets about tormenting, and finally destroying the Paul's family because they refused to give him money to set up his own business which in his twisted mind they should have done as he is married to Susan, Paul Collins sister. (I hope you are following this dear readers as it is a little confusing!) The purpose of this transition in time is to instil in Lee how important it is to understand the evil that is Daryl Finch and to eradicate that evil when he once again travels forward to the present. Daryl Finch is truly depraved, anyone or anything who obstructs him he will wipe out. His wife Susan is being systematically destroyed, and tortured by him and events soon reach a bloody conclusion when Lee and Charlie are apprehended by Finch. Can Lee fulfill his destiny and stop the destructive Finch thereby restoring some normality to his young 14 year old life.
What an odd story that seems to spend most of its narrative describing in great detail the gory, plundering murdering rampage that is Daryl Finch. Although this is a novel set in the UK it has a strange American feel both in its language (always referring to policemen as Cops) and location which resembles a rural southern USA. The time travel aspect helped in the overall atmosphere but even that at times was confusing. Quite an enjoyable read showing a world where evil is always present but balanced against this is the importance of friendships and family, with always the hope that goodness will prevail. Many thanks to the good people at netgalley, and the publisher Bloodhound books, for a gratis copy in exchange for an honest review and that is what I have written.
In this bygone era Lee has been transformed into a teenager known as Paul Collins and has his first painful experience of meeting a young very evil Daryl Finch, Charlie Finch's father. The elder Finch sets about tormenting, and finally destroying the Paul's family because they refused to give him money to set up his own business which in his twisted mind they should have done as he is married to Susan, Paul Collins sister. (I hope you are following this dear readers as it is a little confusing!) The purpose of this transition in time is to instil in Lee how important it is to understand the evil that is Daryl Finch and to eradicate that evil when he once again travels forward to the present. Daryl Finch is truly depraved, anyone or anything who obstructs him he will wipe out. His wife Susan is being systematically destroyed, and tortured by him and events soon reach a bloody conclusion when Lee and Charlie are apprehended by Finch. Can Lee fulfill his destiny and stop the destructive Finch thereby restoring some normality to his young 14 year old life.
What an odd story that seems to spend most of its narrative describing in great detail the gory, plundering murdering rampage that is Daryl Finch. Although this is a novel set in the UK it has a strange American feel both in its language (always referring to policemen as Cops) and location which resembles a rural southern USA. The time travel aspect helped in the overall atmosphere but even that at times was confusing. Quite an enjoyable read showing a world where evil is always present but balanced against this is the importance of friendships and family, with always the hope that goodness will prevail. Many thanks to the good people at netgalley, and the publisher Bloodhound books, for a gratis copy in exchange for an honest review and that is what I have written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2018
WOW oh my…. I really could not stop reading this book I was absolutely gripped from the very first page. Defiinitely on my Picks of 2018 list.
I am a big fan of Mark’s books and have read every one. They are all a little bit different from the usual Thriller books and have a slight insight into the spiritual world in them. This one was no different in that respect but something about this one really grabbed me.
Lee and Charlie are typical teenagers they are not bad lads but do get up to mischief, as do all boys of that age. They decide to do some night fishing from a derelict boathouse across the river. Using the tried and tested method of each staying over at the other’s house and ‘borrowing’ a dinghy from Lee’s house off they set on their little adventure.
Fate has a way of striking when you least expect it and an unscheduled storm sets in motion a string of events that the lads did not have the maturity to cope with. Lee finds himself in the past in another family and then events turn nasty and he and his ‘new’ family are in danger.
The past and present are linked by 1 man and that man is evil personified. Lee has to find a way to see that justice is served.
I love the characters they are realistic I always admire authors who can create realistic teenage characters and these reminded me so much of my son and his friends at that age.
A jaw droppingly brilliant book that will appeal to readers of many genres.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the advance copy.
I am a big fan of Mark’s books and have read every one. They are all a little bit different from the usual Thriller books and have a slight insight into the spiritual world in them. This one was no different in that respect but something about this one really grabbed me.
Lee and Charlie are typical teenagers they are not bad lads but do get up to mischief, as do all boys of that age. They decide to do some night fishing from a derelict boathouse across the river. Using the tried and tested method of each staying over at the other’s house and ‘borrowing’ a dinghy from Lee’s house off they set on their little adventure.
Fate has a way of striking when you least expect it and an unscheduled storm sets in motion a string of events that the lads did not have the maturity to cope with. Lee finds himself in the past in another family and then events turn nasty and he and his ‘new’ family are in danger.
The past and present are linked by 1 man and that man is evil personified. Lee has to find a way to see that justice is served.
I love the characters they are realistic I always admire authors who can create realistic teenage characters and these reminded me so much of my son and his friends at that age.
A jaw droppingly brilliant book that will appeal to readers of many genres.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the advance copy.
November 10, 2019
Reading this book was a true pleasure, however it’s left me with a dilemma. How do you review a great book without spoilers?
The Key To Death’s Door is one of the most unique books I think I’ve ever read. It wasn’t at all what I expected. The first few chapters I found myself asking: Is this a young adult book? The characters are two young boys, typical for their age and time. There are hints of family issues for Charlie Finch and Daryl Finch is a despicable character from the get-go. Even if it had been a young adult novel I couldn’t put it down. Reading Charlie and Lee’s adventures made me feel I not only knew them, I was right there with them. Feeling their young emotions, insecurities, desperation. Talk about edge of the seat scenes with tense emotion!
Back to my dilemma. How do I tell you how wonderful I thought this book was without revealing too much? I don’t think I can, but I can say it is not a young adult book, but one that can be enjoyed by those who love young adult books and mystery/thriller and suspense. It is a book with deep characters with real life emotions for their ages and the situations they find themselves in. It is a book about friendship, loyalty and love. It is a book where a young boy questions life and its meaning and purpose. I will issue a few warnings- there is animal violence alluded to and part of the story. Although painful to read, it is reality in the situation and adds a real-life touch to the scenes. There is strong and violent language, but once again true-life to the situation and the character. There are religious overtones so well written you find yourself wondering if the author is indeed this young boy telling his story.
A truly imaginative, unique creation and one that will stick with me for some time to come. I will find myself thinking about Lee and Charlie, Paul and Bobby for a long time. I fell in love with them and wish this was a series and I could follow them for years to come. I think you will too.
The Key To Death’s Door is one of the most unique books I think I’ve ever read. It wasn’t at all what I expected. The first few chapters I found myself asking: Is this a young adult book? The characters are two young boys, typical for their age and time. There are hints of family issues for Charlie Finch and Daryl Finch is a despicable character from the get-go. Even if it had been a young adult novel I couldn’t put it down. Reading Charlie and Lee’s adventures made me feel I not only knew them, I was right there with them. Feeling their young emotions, insecurities, desperation. Talk about edge of the seat scenes with tense emotion!
Back to my dilemma. How do I tell you how wonderful I thought this book was without revealing too much? I don’t think I can, but I can say it is not a young adult book, but one that can be enjoyed by those who love young adult books and mystery/thriller and suspense. It is a book with deep characters with real life emotions for their ages and the situations they find themselves in. It is a book about friendship, loyalty and love. It is a book where a young boy questions life and its meaning and purpose. I will issue a few warnings- there is animal violence alluded to and part of the story. Although painful to read, it is reality in the situation and adds a real-life touch to the scenes. There is strong and violent language, but once again true-life to the situation and the character. There are religious overtones so well written you find yourself wondering if the author is indeed this young boy telling his story.
A truly imaginative, unique creation and one that will stick with me for some time to come. I will find myself thinking about Lee and Charlie, Paul and Bobby for a long time. I fell in love with them and wish this was a series and I could follow them for years to come. I think you will too.
April 8, 2018
A dark tale, but one I struggled to tear myself away from, this is my first book by Mark Tilbury but I feel it will not be my last.
I found the unusual concept intriguing and was impressed that the author was able to resolve it as well as he did, though I did think that the final conclusion was a little too neat. There is a well maintained sense of tension throughout the book, but particularly in the sections set in the past, it is difficult to say more without possibly spoiling the plot.
I found the unusual concept intriguing and was impressed that the author was able to resolve it as well as he did, though I did think that the final conclusion was a little too neat. There is a well maintained sense of tension throughout the book, but particularly in the sections set in the past, it is difficult to say more without possibly spoiling the plot.
April 16, 2018
No messing about… I fucking love this novel. I read a lot of books, this one is, by quite some distance, my favourite read of 2018 to date.
Tilbury’s use of POV and narrative style is completely perfect throughout and Lee/Paul’s voice carries the reader very nicely through the changing time periods and settings. Very nicely done.
Tilbury’s believable and charming dialogue aids the effect of this this tremendously. The technical skill displayed here shows how considerably Tilbury has developed as a writer with this work.
The novel felt very current, but also prodded a lot of nostalgia that’d connect not just with 80s kids but with kids of any era because of the themes of friendship and family and fidelity used.
It read as very visceral, very real, but also played out on my mind like a Quantum Leap episode. Pure entertainment at its best.
With the recurring themes of friendships and newly-minted courage, and loyalty, it felt like Stand by Me, and a little element of Stranger Things, but only in the feel of the people and settings. This wonderful work is not derivative in any way of those films and shows but does evoke the warm glows of childhood, despite the darkness throughout. It felt familiar and dangerous and modern and strangely comforting. Wonderful stuff.
Tilbury has revealed a golden moment in this book. Not just in comparing the lives of present day kids to those of the past, but the social commentary on domestic violence, the apparent exterior normality of the central monster, friendships that transcend circumstances and the deep loyalty of the boys. The author has portrayed the boys in a very genuine way and not fallen into trying to use youth-isms or patronised their POV in any way. I loved these teen characters and the simple courage they discovered within themselves as the novel progressed.
Some scenes are horrific but they make the sun shine all the brighter when it comes out. Despite the darkness it’s a very hopeful novel, which is quite some trick.
I loved the little quirks that Mark has used to flesh out his characters, giving them a too-real presence for the reader. Charlie always refereeing to Lee as Gus is one of those special little character kinks that bring great characters and stories to life. I was delighted that Tilbury didn’t force any explanation of why Charlie does this. It just is, and it’s fucking perfect.
The Key to Death’s Door is an absolute beast of a novel and one that elevates its author to a new level of skill and technical accomplishment
Tilbury’s use of POV and narrative style is completely perfect throughout and Lee/Paul’s voice carries the reader very nicely through the changing time periods and settings. Very nicely done.
Tilbury’s believable and charming dialogue aids the effect of this this tremendously. The technical skill displayed here shows how considerably Tilbury has developed as a writer with this work.
The novel felt very current, but also prodded a lot of nostalgia that’d connect not just with 80s kids but with kids of any era because of the themes of friendship and family and fidelity used.
It read as very visceral, very real, but also played out on my mind like a Quantum Leap episode. Pure entertainment at its best.
With the recurring themes of friendships and newly-minted courage, and loyalty, it felt like Stand by Me, and a little element of Stranger Things, but only in the feel of the people and settings. This wonderful work is not derivative in any way of those films and shows but does evoke the warm glows of childhood, despite the darkness throughout. It felt familiar and dangerous and modern and strangely comforting. Wonderful stuff.
Tilbury has revealed a golden moment in this book. Not just in comparing the lives of present day kids to those of the past, but the social commentary on domestic violence, the apparent exterior normality of the central monster, friendships that transcend circumstances and the deep loyalty of the boys. The author has portrayed the boys in a very genuine way and not fallen into trying to use youth-isms or patronised their POV in any way. I loved these teen characters and the simple courage they discovered within themselves as the novel progressed.
Some scenes are horrific but they make the sun shine all the brighter when it comes out. Despite the darkness it’s a very hopeful novel, which is quite some trick.
I loved the little quirks that Mark has used to flesh out his characters, giving them a too-real presence for the reader. Charlie always refereeing to Lee as Gus is one of those special little character kinks that bring great characters and stories to life. I was delighted that Tilbury didn’t force any explanation of why Charlie does this. It just is, and it’s fucking perfect.
The Key to Death’s Door is an absolute beast of a novel and one that elevates its author to a new level of skill and technical accomplishment
April 20, 2018
I am a massive fan of Mark Tilbury and always look forward to his latest novel he is an author that always brings us something different and always seems to get better and better each book that I read. I am pleased to say The Key to Deaths Door is belter of a story, which you wont be able to put down.
We are taken on an incredible journey where we meet teenager Lee Hunter and his best friend Charlie Finch and follow riveting a story of their friendship.You can feel the bond between them and the banter they have, which I loved it reminded me so much of Stephen King's Stand By Me. They are brilliant characters and has always Mark put his spin on things and adds an element of supernatural into the story when Lee experiences a near death and leaves his body and finds himself reliving another life! and this is just the start of whats to come.
I have to say, I do love a crime thriller that has a supernatural element in it. The author has weaved a story that will have you well and truly hooked. I am starting to think Mark is the new Stephen King!
This a dark and twisted nail biting thriller where the author has wrote some very uncomfortable and dark scenes which I wouldn't expect anything less from this sicko author! LOL
This is a must read for fans old and new which I highly recommend giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Sarah Hardy for inviting me to take part in this epic tour.
We are taken on an incredible journey where we meet teenager Lee Hunter and his best friend Charlie Finch and follow riveting a story of their friendship.You can feel the bond between them and the banter they have, which I loved it reminded me so much of Stephen King's Stand By Me. They are brilliant characters and has always Mark put his spin on things and adds an element of supernatural into the story when Lee experiences a near death and leaves his body and finds himself reliving another life! and this is just the start of whats to come.
I have to say, I do love a crime thriller that has a supernatural element in it. The author has weaved a story that will have you well and truly hooked. I am starting to think Mark is the new Stephen King!
This a dark and twisted nail biting thriller where the author has wrote some very uncomfortable and dark scenes which I wouldn't expect anything less from this sicko author! LOL
This is a must read for fans old and new which I highly recommend giving it 4.5 stars.
Thank you to Sarah Hardy for inviting me to take part in this epic tour.
June 13, 2018
Loved this unusual thriller. M Tilbury sure can spin an exceptional yarn, his writing is effortless from page one.
This is a different kind of thriller centred around two teenage boys from very different families that will have you gasping in parts and reading through your fingers in others.
As with a few of M Tilbury’s other books there is a paranormal element to this one.
A great read but a heart-wrenching one in places too.
Highly recommended for sure.
This is a different kind of thriller centred around two teenage boys from very different families that will have you gasping in parts and reading through your fingers in others.
As with a few of M Tilbury’s other books there is a paranormal element to this one.
A great read but a heart-wrenching one in places too.
Highly recommended for sure.
April 10, 2018
Thanks to Net galley for the copy.
Lee Hunter and his friend Charlie Finch goes to a derelict boathouse and an accident occurs, Lee nearly drowns and he finds inside the body of a teenager Paul in another time, who gets tragically killed by a demon incarnate Daryl.
Lee returns back to his body and his time, now with help of his dearest friend who has brain of a chicken and the heart of a lion Charlie plans to take over the despicable man.
Did they succeeded? Or did they succumbed to that same person again? all are revealed in the thrilling last chapters of “The Key to Death’s door”.
I have already read the books written by Mark Tilbury and I know how dark and gory with a little bit of humour he writes. In this novel Mark had scored again I am bit disappointed on missing his dark humour. Apart from this the novel is as good as his other stories.
The friendship between Charlie and Lee, how they both sacrifice for each other well being is super awesome. Another friendship mentioned is Paul Collins and Bobby Knox it is also great story with a tinge of sadness as they both die in the hands of Daryl.
And now the villain the most hated and one we wish to see him dead is Daryl. An important character who links the two stories, two childhoods ruined by the same man and two families torn apart by his evil action. His style of tormenting, provoking and punishing are exceptional, sometimes we wish to tear him apart, hit him with his baseball bat so he tastes his own blood. The feeling towards Daryl we have is intense dislike, the credit goes to the author Mark, Daryl the villain is on par with Edward Ebb and John Carver.
A superb thriller from Mark Tilbury. Thanks Mark for another great read.
Click here for more of this book review.
http://www.chromaring.com/2018/04/the...
Lee Hunter and his friend Charlie Finch goes to a derelict boathouse and an accident occurs, Lee nearly drowns and he finds inside the body of a teenager Paul in another time, who gets tragically killed by a demon incarnate Daryl.
Lee returns back to his body and his time, now with help of his dearest friend who has brain of a chicken and the heart of a lion Charlie plans to take over the despicable man.
Did they succeeded? Or did they succumbed to that same person again? all are revealed in the thrilling last chapters of “The Key to Death’s door”.
I have already read the books written by Mark Tilbury and I know how dark and gory with a little bit of humour he writes. In this novel Mark had scored again I am bit disappointed on missing his dark humour. Apart from this the novel is as good as his other stories.
The friendship between Charlie and Lee, how they both sacrifice for each other well being is super awesome. Another friendship mentioned is Paul Collins and Bobby Knox it is also great story with a tinge of sadness as they both die in the hands of Daryl.
And now the villain the most hated and one we wish to see him dead is Daryl. An important character who links the two stories, two childhoods ruined by the same man and two families torn apart by his evil action. His style of tormenting, provoking and punishing are exceptional, sometimes we wish to tear him apart, hit him with his baseball bat so he tastes his own blood. The feeling towards Daryl we have is intense dislike, the credit goes to the author Mark, Daryl the villain is on par with Edward Ebb and John Carver.
A superb thriller from Mark Tilbury. Thanks Mark for another great read.
Click here for more of this book review.
http://www.chromaring.com/2018/04/the...
April 19, 2018
Lee is your typical bored fourteen year old, looking for adventure with his best friend Charlie Finch. They decide to spend the night in an old abandoned boathouse but in the morning they find themselves stranded, the only way to get back to other side is to swim across a dangerous river. Lee ends up almost drowning and experiencing the impossible, a past life which is cruelly brought to an end. Can he get justice for the past?
This is the first book I’ve read by Mark Tilbury and I think it is a nice introduction to his writing for first time readers of his work.
This is a different and original story. The subject of past lives have always fascinated me. When we die do we go on to become a new person with a new life? If something bad happened in a previous life could we get justice for it in our new one? I’d like to think so.
Mark Tilbury has created some really memorable characters which are really the centre of the story. From Lee Hunter to his counterpart in the eighties Paul Collins to Charlie with his floppy hat and habit of spitting every two seconds. Also he created one of the most despicable people I have read about in a while Daryl Finch, who the kind of character you like to give a good kicking to.
This probably won’t be for everyone. There’s a lot of obscene language and violence which even had me grimacing a little bit. Also there were quite a few religious overtones and with the going from 2012 to the eighties back to 2012 again, the timeline got a little confusing to me.
But overall an original and enticing read that will really stick with you after you read it.
This is the first book I’ve read by Mark Tilbury and I think it is a nice introduction to his writing for first time readers of his work.
This is a different and original story. The subject of past lives have always fascinated me. When we die do we go on to become a new person with a new life? If something bad happened in a previous life could we get justice for it in our new one? I’d like to think so.
Mark Tilbury has created some really memorable characters which are really the centre of the story. From Lee Hunter to his counterpart in the eighties Paul Collins to Charlie with his floppy hat and habit of spitting every two seconds. Also he created one of the most despicable people I have read about in a while Daryl Finch, who the kind of character you like to give a good kicking to.
This probably won’t be for everyone. There’s a lot of obscene language and violence which even had me grimacing a little bit. Also there were quite a few religious overtones and with the going from 2012 to the eighties back to 2012 again, the timeline got a little confusing to me.
But overall an original and enticing read that will really stick with you after you read it.
April 24, 2018
Well, Mark Tilbury's books never fail to draw you in from the very first page! They're not easy reads in regards to some of the subject matters and if you're easily offended by violence then they probably won't be for you, but if you like a dark psychological thriller then you will LOVE them. Mark Tilbury has a knack for creating the most evil of characters, who will make your skin crawl, but also very likeable characters who I always warm to and find myself praying for as their stories progress. Having LOVED all of Mark Tilbury's other books I couldn't wait to read The Key To Death's Door and I was hooked, as always, from the start!
We meet Lee Hunter who is just 14 years old, living a normal life, like a normal teenager until he nearly drowns in the river whilst out with his friend, Charlie. In fact, Charlie saves his life, but not before Lee experiences the last few days of a previous life. A short life where he meets a devastating end at the hands of one man. One man he soon realises he still knows now, 30 years later! This man, who is not really worthy of the title, is a totally sick character. The filth that comes out of his mouth and the things he puts this family through are nothing short of horrific! It's not pleasant reading at all, at times, and being an animal lover too he absolutely turned my stomach. I would have wanted to kill him myself. Lee and Charlie are determined to bring this man to justice, but how will they find proof. Who is going to believe he regressed to a past life when he was drowning?
Lee is a lovely character. He obviously loves his mother, and he respects her rules, but he can't help being swayed a little by Charlie. Lee and Charlie are like chalk and cheese, with VERY different upbringings, but the banter between them is great and quite amusing at times. They have a strong friendship. It's absolutely heartbreaking what Charlie has to contend with at home and Lee does his best to support him, but he's torn between helping out his mate and not wanting to upset his mother. Eventually they hatch a plan to gain the evidence they need to put this monster down for good, but nothing is ever straight forward and they find themselves in a very dangerous situation with seemingly no way out.
I absolutely loved the supernatural aspect of this story and I find the idea of some of us having led previous lives fascinating. When my son was about 3-4 years old he used to talk about when he used to be a runner, when he used to be older and he used to win all of the races!! He talked about this a lot, for a good few months and when I asked him what he meant, he was insistent that he used to be older and he used to win all the races he ran! I'm convinced he was remembering a past life, but he never mentioned anything as he got older.
This is a totally unique story which flows perfectly from page one. The twists and turns are shocking and unpredictable. Although it's very much plot driven the characterisation is immensely strong. They are very real people and their story is totally believable, which makes it all the more scary!
Mark Tilbury certainly knows how to write a compelling story! He is easily one of my most favourite authors. I get on very well with his writing style and I know I'm in for a treat whenever he has a new book out.
I can't wait for the next one!
Many thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for my ARC. I highly recommend!
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
We meet Lee Hunter who is just 14 years old, living a normal life, like a normal teenager until he nearly drowns in the river whilst out with his friend, Charlie. In fact, Charlie saves his life, but not before Lee experiences the last few days of a previous life. A short life where he meets a devastating end at the hands of one man. One man he soon realises he still knows now, 30 years later! This man, who is not really worthy of the title, is a totally sick character. The filth that comes out of his mouth and the things he puts this family through are nothing short of horrific! It's not pleasant reading at all, at times, and being an animal lover too he absolutely turned my stomach. I would have wanted to kill him myself. Lee and Charlie are determined to bring this man to justice, but how will they find proof. Who is going to believe he regressed to a past life when he was drowning?
Lee is a lovely character. He obviously loves his mother, and he respects her rules, but he can't help being swayed a little by Charlie. Lee and Charlie are like chalk and cheese, with VERY different upbringings, but the banter between them is great and quite amusing at times. They have a strong friendship. It's absolutely heartbreaking what Charlie has to contend with at home and Lee does his best to support him, but he's torn between helping out his mate and not wanting to upset his mother. Eventually they hatch a plan to gain the evidence they need to put this monster down for good, but nothing is ever straight forward and they find themselves in a very dangerous situation with seemingly no way out.
I absolutely loved the supernatural aspect of this story and I find the idea of some of us having led previous lives fascinating. When my son was about 3-4 years old he used to talk about when he used to be a runner, when he used to be older and he used to win all of the races!! He talked about this a lot, for a good few months and when I asked him what he meant, he was insistent that he used to be older and he used to win all the races he ran! I'm convinced he was remembering a past life, but he never mentioned anything as he got older.
This is a totally unique story which flows perfectly from page one. The twists and turns are shocking and unpredictable. Although it's very much plot driven the characterisation is immensely strong. They are very real people and their story is totally believable, which makes it all the more scary!
Mark Tilbury certainly knows how to write a compelling story! He is easily one of my most favourite authors. I get on very well with his writing style and I know I'm in for a treat whenever he has a new book out.
I can't wait for the next one!
Many thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for my ARC. I highly recommend!
https://chataboutbooks.wordpress.com/...
November 29, 2019
I read this purely on the basis of having enjoyed plenty of Mark Tilbury's books before. No blurb, no synopsis, no idea of the storyline and it was well worth the surprise!
From the very first line, "The day before I died started off pretty much like any other." then I was hooked!! Elements of reincarnation, time travel and childhood friendships are all there in a mind-f**k of a thriller that will stay with you long after the final sentence.
Tilbury's ability to create thoroughly despicable characters is again in evidence and you really do find yourself hoping for good to triumph.
It's brutal, it's clever (one scene in particular really twisted my mind!) and it's highly recommended!!
From the very first line, "The day before I died started off pretty much like any other." then I was hooked!! Elements of reincarnation, time travel and childhood friendships are all there in a mind-f**k of a thriller that will stay with you long after the final sentence.
Tilbury's ability to create thoroughly despicable characters is again in evidence and you really do find yourself hoping for good to triumph.
It's brutal, it's clever (one scene in particular really twisted my mind!) and it's highly recommended!!
April 18, 2018
Well, well, well Mark Tilbury, The Key To Death’s Door, newest publication OMG, OMFG an absolute stoater of a read, the intensity of the writing swelled within my imagination and blew me away.
Try as I may I will never be able to describe the plotline to you, the synopsis says it all, if I gave you much more I would probably bamboozle you, leaving you with a pickled brain, hahahaha. What I will tell you is the framework surrounding Mark Tilbury’s imagination is like no other, a definite surreal narrative which I’m astounded that he can accomplish. The dark and disturbing sequence of events gel naturally together forming an impervious and heinous piece of fiction.
The Key To Death’s Door revolves around two boys, Lee and Charlie, a subjective tale of an outer body experience with the twisting formulation of supernatural/paranormal flair. With this in mind I revelled in the book even though some themes were distressing, such as the systematic abuse of family and the harrowing choices that are made.
Reflecting on the whole book its easy to lose yourself in the aftermath, in my case I just couldn’t get The Key To Death’s Door out of my head, I mulled it over, flipped it, delved a bit more into all that Mark perceived in the book in which he left a frenzied imprint stamped in my imagination.
A dark, disturbing, horrifically well crafted and impressionable book.
Thanks go to Mark Tilbury, BloodHound Books and Sarah Hardy for an advanced readers copy of The Key To Death’s Door, in exchange for an honest review.
One more thing Mark can you do me a favour, please write quickly, don’t know if I can wait an age for another.
Try as I may I will never be able to describe the plotline to you, the synopsis says it all, if I gave you much more I would probably bamboozle you, leaving you with a pickled brain, hahahaha. What I will tell you is the framework surrounding Mark Tilbury’s imagination is like no other, a definite surreal narrative which I’m astounded that he can accomplish. The dark and disturbing sequence of events gel naturally together forming an impervious and heinous piece of fiction.
The Key To Death’s Door revolves around two boys, Lee and Charlie, a subjective tale of an outer body experience with the twisting formulation of supernatural/paranormal flair. With this in mind I revelled in the book even though some themes were distressing, such as the systematic abuse of family and the harrowing choices that are made.
Reflecting on the whole book its easy to lose yourself in the aftermath, in my case I just couldn’t get The Key To Death’s Door out of my head, I mulled it over, flipped it, delved a bit more into all that Mark perceived in the book in which he left a frenzied imprint stamped in my imagination.
A dark, disturbing, horrifically well crafted and impressionable book.
Thanks go to Mark Tilbury, BloodHound Books and Sarah Hardy for an advanced readers copy of The Key To Death’s Door, in exchange for an honest review.
One more thing Mark can you do me a favour, please write quickly, don’t know if I can wait an age for another.
May 30, 2018
I was sure I would enjoy Mark Tilbury’s latest book because I’ve loved each of his others. I’ve been a huge fan of this author ever since reading The Abattoir of Dreams which is still my favourite book of recent years. The Key to Death’s Door comes a close second. It made me feel all the emotions I felt while reading The Abattoir of Dreams, although I didn’t cry this time. Both books have many similarities; they’re both deliciously gripping, beautifully written and are shockingly violent. Both include the afterlife and unapologetically batter the reader’s emotions. Both books involve the close friendships between boys as they battle against the demonic barbarism of an older man. The epitome of evil was Detective Inspector Carver in The Abattoir of Dreams. It was the vile Daryl Finch in The Key to Death’s Door. Mark Tilbury had created a winning formula in The Abattoir of Dreams and I’m grateful he repeated his magic formula in his latest thrilling work. A cracking story, thoroughly deserving a five-star rating from me and from many other readers, I’m sure.
May 10, 2018
Never before has a book had me in such a mixture of feelings... I hated it in the way that it was so graphic and the Daryl character so abhorrent, but I also found myself totally unable to stop reading.
This was my first book by this author, but I don't think it will be the last. The writing style and character descriptions are second to none. The hate for Daryls character is matched only by the love for Lee/Pauls character and his relationship with Charlie/Bobby and that is testament to the author, in the same way that I think that the graphic scenes got to me so much, because I could picture them so well.
Definitely one that is going to stay with me, but not sure if I have decided whether that will be in a good way or not, yet!!
This was my first book by this author, but I don't think it will be the last. The writing style and character descriptions are second to none. The hate for Daryls character is matched only by the love for Lee/Pauls character and his relationship with Charlie/Bobby and that is testament to the author, in the same way that I think that the graphic scenes got to me so much, because I could picture them so well.
Definitely one that is going to stay with me, but not sure if I have decided whether that will be in a good way or not, yet!!
April 26, 2018
This story will pierce your heart...and touch your soul....Stunning
When Lee Hunter almost drowns at Feelham river..he leaves his body ...drawn by a white light and enters a different life on Hale Farm..where the pace of life is different...until evil comes calling ..once again Lee's life changes..but why has this happened to a fourteen year old boy? This story will make you smile , weep , rage. ...A story of Innocence, love , hate ,loss and darkness ...Lee Bobby Knox and Charlie Finch will melt your heart...Vera Nazavian once said...Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light........Stunning....
When Lee Hunter almost drowns at Feelham river..he leaves his body ...drawn by a white light and enters a different life on Hale Farm..where the pace of life is different...until evil comes calling ..once again Lee's life changes..but why has this happened to a fourteen year old boy? This story will make you smile , weep , rage. ...A story of Innocence, love , hate ,loss and darkness ...Lee Bobby Knox and Charlie Finch will melt your heart...Vera Nazavian once said...Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light........Stunning....
April 28, 2018
I gave this 28% and had to stop. In that short read there were three disturbing animal scenes. Those are my reading kryptonite. It just seems so unnecessary. Really disappointed. I was really enjoying the story.
April 21, 2018
I'm sure you all have your favourites authors, the ones who when you know they have a new book coming out, you just know that you HAVE to read it. You don't need to know what it's about, you don't need a blurb . . . you just NEED to read it. Well Mark Tilbury is one of mine and deservedly so.
Lee Hunter is a typical teenager, getting into scrapes and looking for adventure, but when he and his best friend, Charlie Finch, decide to spend the night at a local derelict boathouse no-one could have forseen the terrifying consequences it would have for both of them, but in particular Lee.
A severe overnight storm leaves the boys without any method of getting back to the shore so they decide to swim across the river. Charlie makes is back safely but Lee isn't so lucky, he disappears under the water and then blacks out. When he comes round is isn't where he expects to be and nothing is quite as it seems. Lee is going to wish he was back in the river, drowning.
The Key to Death's Door is a book that once read, will stay with you for a long time after you've read the final page. A tale of true friendship between two boys and I felt that the author really captured the essence of their friendship, making them feel real and because of that I really sympathised with their situation. Once again the subject matter is hard-hitting, there's animal cruelty, child abuse and torture to name just a few, but this is exactly what I've come to expect from Mark Tilbury's books and as strange as it might sound, this is why I'm drawn to them so much. I know that I can completely immerse myself in the story and become blissfully ignorant of everything that's going on around me.
As always with Mark's books there's one character that made my skin crawl, to the point where I almost couldn't bear to read his name. After 'meeting' the truly repugnant Detective Carter in The Abattoir of Dreams I was pretty sure that no other character could ever come close to being as vile as he was, but boy was I wrong! Daryl Finch is the mother of all heinous characters and he certainly outstayed his welcome in my head once I'd reached the end of the book! I'm sure he even visited me in my dreams about a week later. . . . .and that's just rude as well as a little disturbing!
I can guarantee that The Key to Death's Door will give you palpitations . . . . but you'll love it, I know I did. Mark Tilbury is fast becoming an author to be reckoned with when it comes to dark and gritty thrillers, so if that's your thing this is one book and author that needs to be on your radar and more importantly on your TBR.
Lee Hunter is a typical teenager, getting into scrapes and looking for adventure, but when he and his best friend, Charlie Finch, decide to spend the night at a local derelict boathouse no-one could have forseen the terrifying consequences it would have for both of them, but in particular Lee.
A severe overnight storm leaves the boys without any method of getting back to the shore so they decide to swim across the river. Charlie makes is back safely but Lee isn't so lucky, he disappears under the water and then blacks out. When he comes round is isn't where he expects to be and nothing is quite as it seems. Lee is going to wish he was back in the river, drowning.
The Key to Death's Door is a book that once read, will stay with you for a long time after you've read the final page. A tale of true friendship between two boys and I felt that the author really captured the essence of their friendship, making them feel real and because of that I really sympathised with their situation. Once again the subject matter is hard-hitting, there's animal cruelty, child abuse and torture to name just a few, but this is exactly what I've come to expect from Mark Tilbury's books and as strange as it might sound, this is why I'm drawn to them so much. I know that I can completely immerse myself in the story and become blissfully ignorant of everything that's going on around me.
As always with Mark's books there's one character that made my skin crawl, to the point where I almost couldn't bear to read his name. After 'meeting' the truly repugnant Detective Carter in The Abattoir of Dreams I was pretty sure that no other character could ever come close to being as vile as he was, but boy was I wrong! Daryl Finch is the mother of all heinous characters and he certainly outstayed his welcome in my head once I'd reached the end of the book! I'm sure he even visited me in my dreams about a week later. . . . .and that's just rude as well as a little disturbing!
I can guarantee that The Key to Death's Door will give you palpitations . . . . but you'll love it, I know I did. Mark Tilbury is fast becoming an author to be reckoned with when it comes to dark and gritty thrillers, so if that's your thing this is one book and author that needs to be on your radar and more importantly on your TBR.
April 17, 2018
In some hands a novel about somebody dying but then being sent back to the past by a mysterious light could have been a heartwarming Capraesque tale. Not in Mark Tilbury's hands however... Those of a may delicate persuasion should probably look away now because The Key to Death's Door is a dark, and harrowing read. I really don't want to say too much about the plot and risk giving anything away but what I can say is there is one particular character who is a terrifying psychopathic monster - and he holds the key to the events that connect the past and present.
There is an element of the paranormal or spiritual about The Key to Death's Door so some readers may need to put their own beliefs aside but if you love gritty, hard-hitting, no holds barred writing it's definitely worth it. It's not an easy read; the antagonist carries out some truly heinous acts and some of the abuse he perpetrates is difficult to read. The violence itself is disturbing enough but what is perhaps equally as upsetting is the psychological effect his brutality has on his victims. The fear they feel waiting for his next move and their guilt as they recognise they are powerless against him is almost palpable. You want to urge them to not give up but when their situation seems so unbearably hopeless there is little else to do but read on with an ever increasing sense of foreboding at what else is to come.
So given that it's such a dark, distressing book it may come as some surprise when I say that in some ways it reads as a YA novel (and this is meant as a compliment, there are many brilliant YA books out there.) It would never be categorised as such of course but Mark Tilbury has captured the voices of his teenage protagonists so well. The novel is narrated in the first person by Lee and there's an authenticity to the writing which makes the relationships portrayed in the book absolutely believable. The friendship between Lee and Charlie provides some much needed humour and there are some touching moments of vulnerability and warmth that take the characters far beyond the stereotypical bantering teenagers.
The writing flows naturally throughout and though the subject matter is frequently shocking it's a book that I was unable to put down. This is tense, compelling fiction that will invoke strong reactions but I never felt it was gratuitous. Sometimes books need to examine the worst of people to explore just what drives us at our lowest moments. The Key to Death's Door is about retribution, revenge and justice but it's also about trust and love. This was the first book I've read by Mark Tilbury - it won't be the last.
There is an element of the paranormal or spiritual about The Key to Death's Door so some readers may need to put their own beliefs aside but if you love gritty, hard-hitting, no holds barred writing it's definitely worth it. It's not an easy read; the antagonist carries out some truly heinous acts and some of the abuse he perpetrates is difficult to read. The violence itself is disturbing enough but what is perhaps equally as upsetting is the psychological effect his brutality has on his victims. The fear they feel waiting for his next move and their guilt as they recognise they are powerless against him is almost palpable. You want to urge them to not give up but when their situation seems so unbearably hopeless there is little else to do but read on with an ever increasing sense of foreboding at what else is to come.
So given that it's such a dark, distressing book it may come as some surprise when I say that in some ways it reads as a YA novel (and this is meant as a compliment, there are many brilliant YA books out there.) It would never be categorised as such of course but Mark Tilbury has captured the voices of his teenage protagonists so well. The novel is narrated in the first person by Lee and there's an authenticity to the writing which makes the relationships portrayed in the book absolutely believable. The friendship between Lee and Charlie provides some much needed humour and there are some touching moments of vulnerability and warmth that take the characters far beyond the stereotypical bantering teenagers.
The writing flows naturally throughout and though the subject matter is frequently shocking it's a book that I was unable to put down. This is tense, compelling fiction that will invoke strong reactions but I never felt it was gratuitous. Sometimes books need to examine the worst of people to explore just what drives us at our lowest moments. The Key to Death's Door is about retribution, revenge and justice but it's also about trust and love. This was the first book I've read by Mark Tilbury - it won't be the last.
September 22, 2018
The thing that brings me back to Mark Tilbury’s books, time and time again, is the total uniqueness of each one. They never blend in with any thing else that I have read making each book one that I can bring back to memory months after finishing reading it. I like that his writing brings out the best and worst in me, my mothering instincts and the killer ones that lurk deep in my mind too. Monsters don’t always live under the bed, some live in families, bullies, tormentors and murderers.
This story is that of two best friends Lee and Charlie, teenagers that are after adventure, each of them lying to their parents, so they can camp out on an Island over night. Oh they get their wish but what they imagined it would be and the reality are two different things. The pair share their biggest secrets, with heart breaking confessions but things take a turn for the worse when the weather makes the lads make bad choices. One of them, has a near death experience and a terrifying glimpse into another life time that links past and present.
Oh my this could turn you cold on a hot summer day! I curled up on my sofa reading this, wanting to make myself as small as possible. The story is told over two-time frames set years apart and yet connected by one vile man. The writing is exquisite, creating a whole bystander experience of being there. This is an absolute cracking story, very graphic, extremely brutal and utterly gut wrenching. If you have a problem with violence in stories it isn’t for you. This though is Mark Tilbury at his best, he is better than any sugar rush and it stays much longer!
I loved how it all comes together at the end. A top class story and another to add to my unforgettable books on my library shelf.
This story is that of two best friends Lee and Charlie, teenagers that are after adventure, each of them lying to their parents, so they can camp out on an Island over night. Oh they get their wish but what they imagined it would be and the reality are two different things. The pair share their biggest secrets, with heart breaking confessions but things take a turn for the worse when the weather makes the lads make bad choices. One of them, has a near death experience and a terrifying glimpse into another life time that links past and present.
Oh my this could turn you cold on a hot summer day! I curled up on my sofa reading this, wanting to make myself as small as possible. The story is told over two-time frames set years apart and yet connected by one vile man. The writing is exquisite, creating a whole bystander experience of being there. This is an absolute cracking story, very graphic, extremely brutal and utterly gut wrenching. If you have a problem with violence in stories it isn’t for you. This though is Mark Tilbury at his best, he is better than any sugar rush and it stays much longer!
I loved how it all comes together at the end. A top class story and another to add to my unforgettable books on my library shelf.
May 2, 2018
Mark Tilbury has long been one of my favourite authors, and every time I start a new book of his I don't expect it to surpass the brilliance of the others - but yet again this one does!
There aren't enough superlatives to express how wonderful this book is, but I'll give it a go!
Mark is such an all rounder as an author. The subject matter is always unusual but compelling. The prose is fabulous. At times reading this novel I found myself likening him to Truman Capote (In Cold Blood) and John Steinbeck (Of Mice and Men). How much more praise can an author get?
As always in Mark's books there is a supernatural element, and as always it is written with total credibility.
The friendships between the two sets of boys are both superbly portrayed, and the character of Daryl Finch is so three dimensional I have an utter loathing towards him. Another fantastically drawn villain from this author's twisted imagination!
This is my favourite book of 2018 so far. I just can't wait for the next one! Highly recommended.
There aren't enough superlatives to express how wonderful this book is, but I'll give it a go!
Mark is such an all rounder as an author. The subject matter is always unusual but compelling. The prose is fabulous. At times reading this novel I found myself likening him to Truman Capote (In Cold Blood) and John Steinbeck (Of Mice and Men). How much more praise can an author get?
As always in Mark's books there is a supernatural element, and as always it is written with total credibility.
The friendships between the two sets of boys are both superbly portrayed, and the character of Daryl Finch is so three dimensional I have an utter loathing towards him. Another fantastically drawn villain from this author's twisted imagination!
This is my favourite book of 2018 so far. I just can't wait for the next one! Highly recommended.
July 1, 2022
I first discovered Mark Tilbury and his fantastic books a year or two back. I haven’t managed to read all of the books that he has released, but I have read several and I hope to read the rest of them as soon as I can. I read the synopsis of ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ and it certainly sounded like the sort of read I have come to expect from Mark- a dark and twisted story that really gets under your skin. Well this book was all that and so much more. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘The Key To Death’s Door’. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first page, I knew that I was going to be reading something special and that I would find it rather difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. That’s exactly what happened too. It felt as though the story had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I found that my Kindle was always in my hand and it accompanied me everywhere, because I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. This was one of those books that stayed with me whether I had my Kindle in my hand or not. If I wasn’t reading the story then I was thinking about it. If I had to put my Kindle down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I became so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I lost track of how long I had been reading and how quickly I was getting through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Key To Death’s Door’. I found ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ to be a gripping, tense and dramatic read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘The Key To Death’s Door’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Mark Tilbury. He certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a compelling story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could take a moment to gather your thoughts and take a breather then off the action would go again. I love the way in which Mark makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Mark’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It took me no time at all to get into ‘The Key To Death’s Door’. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first page, I knew that I was going to be reading something special and that I would find it rather difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. That’s exactly what happened too. It felt as though the story had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I found that my Kindle was always in my hand and it accompanied me everywhere, because I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of the story. This was one of those books that stayed with me whether I had my Kindle in my hand or not. If I wasn’t reading the story then I was thinking about it. If I had to put my Kindle down for any reason then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. I became so wrapped up in the story and in the lives of the different characters that I lost track of how long I had been reading and how quickly I was getting through the book. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘The Key To Death’s Door’. I found ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ to be a gripping, tense and dramatic read, which kept me guessing and which kept me on the edge of my seat.
‘The Key To Death’s Door’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Mark Tilbury. He certainly knows how to grab the reader’s attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a compelling story. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ felt like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Just when you thought that you could take a moment to gather your thoughts and take a breather then off the action would go again. I love the way in which Mark makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Key To Death’s Door’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Mark’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
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