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Comfort Zone
There’s a killer in all of us. Sometimes you just don’t know it.
What drives people to kill?
Take Phil Mercer, for example, what dark secret from his past changes a decent man, and respected professional into a killer?
Down to earth Northerner, Phil Mercer, begins to question why so-called university friends failed to help him establish a practice at London’s Criminal Bar.
Despite that and colleagues’ professional jealousy, he goes on to achieve success as a fearless defender of society’s less fortunate until his career is threatened by events triggered by something completely out of his control.
Figuring his life and career are about to change forever, Mercer strives to find a way to right wrongs by inventing a new parlour game called ‘Comfort Zone.’
At a dinner party surrounded by colleagues he insists they all play the game. He introduces it after dinner as a ‘storytelling game.’ He adds – “the easy choice is not an option at all. What terrifies you? What scares you shitless? Be brave. Be reckless. You are among friends. What can possibly go wrong? It’s just a parlour game, right?”
Get this dark crime noir suspense novella now.
What drives people to kill?
Take Phil Mercer, for example, what dark secret from his past changes a decent man, and respected professional into a killer?
Down to earth Northerner, Phil Mercer, begins to question why so-called university friends failed to help him establish a practice at London’s Criminal Bar.
Despite that and colleagues’ professional jealousy, he goes on to achieve success as a fearless defender of society’s less fortunate until his career is threatened by events triggered by something completely out of his control.
Figuring his life and career are about to change forever, Mercer strives to find a way to right wrongs by inventing a new parlour game called ‘Comfort Zone.’
At a dinner party surrounded by colleagues he insists they all play the game. He introduces it after dinner as a ‘storytelling game.’ He adds – “the easy choice is not an option at all. What terrifies you? What scares you shitless? Be brave. Be reckless. You are among friends. What can possibly go wrong? It’s just a parlour game, right?”
Get this dark crime noir suspense novella now.
258 pages, Paperback
First published July 19, 2020
About the author
Stephen Bentley
108 books269 followersStephen Bentley is an award-winning author. Of his Operation Julie true crime book, screenwriter and novelist, writer of 'Julie' BBC Drama, Rob Gittins, said, "The fascinating and extraordinary inside story from the man who was actually there.”
Of his later fiction works, British crime author, Pat MacDonald said, “I knew when I read the author’s first book although non-fiction that he could make the transition to writing fiction; I was right. He has an ease of language that lends itself to storytelling; he tells it as if he was there in the plot and why shouldn’t he having been an undercover cop in the real world? Not that Steve Regan is meant to be him, but having the experience means he can do whatever he wants with his fictional characters, and they will always be believable.”
Like some other authors, his life experience is broad and unconventional. He spent 30 years in the legal system, first as a detective for 15 years then as barrister plying his trade as “a wig for hire” in London and the English provinces. He was a pioneering undercover cop on Operation Julie and as a barrister defended in trials involving murder, rape, drug importation, other serious crimes and defended soldiers at courts-martial.
He worked in a warehouse. Rode a big motorbike as a London courier. He drove big articulated trucks and taught how to drive them. He also worked as a hospital porter twice. He drove chilled delivery vans in London in the 1990s to fund his law degree and bar school studies. He spent the last two years of his working life driving plant and operating heavy filtration machinery for Europe’s largest water company. His work mates soon recognised his advocacy skills and elected him as their shop steward.
He has now written over twenty books. Two of them have been optioned and in development; one as a TV drama series, and one as a drama doc.
You can find Stephen at stephenbentley.info
His wife is a better person than him in all regards and is a source of support in his goal of entertaining readers. She has also made him a better person.
Stephen Bentley's book recommendations
Of his later fiction works, British crime author, Pat MacDonald said, “I knew when I read the author’s first book although non-fiction that he could make the transition to writing fiction; I was right. He has an ease of language that lends itself to storytelling; he tells it as if he was there in the plot and why shouldn’t he having been an undercover cop in the real world? Not that Steve Regan is meant to be him, but having the experience means he can do whatever he wants with his fictional characters, and they will always be believable.”
Like some other authors, his life experience is broad and unconventional. He spent 30 years in the legal system, first as a detective for 15 years then as barrister plying his trade as “a wig for hire” in London and the English provinces. He was a pioneering undercover cop on Operation Julie and as a barrister defended in trials involving murder, rape, drug importation, other serious crimes and defended soldiers at courts-martial.
He worked in a warehouse. Rode a big motorbike as a London courier. He drove big articulated trucks and taught how to drive them. He also worked as a hospital porter twice. He drove chilled delivery vans in London in the 1990s to fund his law degree and bar school studies. He spent the last two years of his working life driving plant and operating heavy filtration machinery for Europe’s largest water company. His work mates soon recognised his advocacy skills and elected him as their shop steward.
He has now written over twenty books. Two of them have been optioned and in development; one as a TV drama series, and one as a drama doc.
You can find Stephen at stephenbentley.info
His wife is a better person than him in all regards and is a source of support in his goal of entertaining readers. She has also made him a better person.
Stephen Bentley's book recommendations
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
September 20, 2020
Many Thanks to Net Galley, BooksGoSocial and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Where do I begin with this book? 120 pages of goosebump raising, anxiety inducing, dread filled thriller that makes one sit down and think, empathize and commiserate about the effects of mental illness, war crimes and brain-washing.
The opening chapter with almost an emotionless robotic cruelty was utterly gripping and then Phil Mercer and VINCENT walks into the picture enumerating the grievances that have been doled out to him by his so-called friends. The parlor game was just that, a revenge against all the wrongs but Phil is himself astounded by the discoveries he makes in the course of the events that follow.
The chapters are short and snappy but the author keeps the reader glued to its pages dishing out twisty surprises piecemeal by piecemeal and it is quite an amazing feat to convey such a thought-provoking subject in the length of a novella.
Comfort Zone is definitely not a comfort read especially with the chapters that transpires in Afghanistan/Pakistan that makes a reader feel the whole gamut of emotions. The book highlights PTSD with dissociative amnesia without too many frills and that in itself is quite admirable.
I would like to thank Shalini who recommended this brilliant book.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads, and Twitter.
Where do I begin with this book? 120 pages of goosebump raising, anxiety inducing, dread filled thriller that makes one sit down and think, empathize and commiserate about the effects of mental illness, war crimes and brain-washing.
The opening chapter with almost an emotionless robotic cruelty was utterly gripping and then Phil Mercer and VINCENT walks into the picture enumerating the grievances that have been doled out to him by his so-called friends. The parlor game was just that, a revenge against all the wrongs but Phil is himself astounded by the discoveries he makes in the course of the events that follow.
The chapters are short and snappy but the author keeps the reader glued to its pages dishing out twisty surprises piecemeal by piecemeal and it is quite an amazing feat to convey such a thought-provoking subject in the length of a novella.
Comfort Zone is definitely not a comfort read especially with the chapters that transpires in Afghanistan/Pakistan that makes a reader feel the whole gamut of emotions. The book highlights PTSD with dissociative amnesia without too many frills and that in itself is quite admirable.
I would like to thank Shalini who recommended this brilliant book.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/; Amazon India, Goodreads, and Twitter.
August 27, 2020
Phil Mercer is a man suffering PTSD following his experience during the war. He later went on to practice law until his brother died, his mother died, and his wife died ... all within a very short time. And now his career is threatened by something innocently done years ago.
He starts to think about all the people who he feels has wronged him in one way or another. So he plans a dinner party, inviting all his back-stabbing colleagues.
He creates a parlor game ... COMFORT ZONE. Each person must tell a story about what they fear most. But his plans go awry .....
This is very different, unique kind of crime fiction. Several topics are explored ... mental illness ... depression .... feelings of rage .... As the book continues, the suspense builds,, the angst is heightened. With this complex plot comes twists and turns that lead to an unexpected conclusion. As a former undercover British detective, and a barrister, I expected a great amount of credibility. I was not disappointed.
Many thanks to the author / BooksGoSocial / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 31, 2020
This was one crazy-arsed ride from beginning to end. I was absolutely freaked out!!
Phil Mercer was a barrister who had been betrayed by his friends until he simply broke down and decided to call his friends over to play a parlor game called COMFORT ZONE to pull them out of theirs.
My second book by author Stephen Bentley, the book started slow with different snippets shown to me. Then came Phil Mercer into my life who brought Vincent along. Oh my!! The beginning of an unbelievable ride with unexpected twists. At a moment or two, I forgot to breathe when I read what Phil had gone through.
The author in his afterword had said that the story pulled at his being and called him to write it. And I could see why. Mental health problems were written in a understandable manner. I liked how the author neither glossed it over nor went over the top with it, but used it brilliantly in the story along with character build-up.
I hadn’t read a book like this and at 120 odd pages, it was one quick read. The last few chapters tied the loose ends together, and the author brought reality to the precipice of fiction.
Phil Mercer was a barrister who had been betrayed by his friends until he simply broke down and decided to call his friends over to play a parlor game called COMFORT ZONE to pull them out of theirs.
My second book by author Stephen Bentley, the book started slow with different snippets shown to me. Then came Phil Mercer into my life who brought Vincent along. Oh my!! The beginning of an unbelievable ride with unexpected twists. At a moment or two, I forgot to breathe when I read what Phil had gone through.
The author in his afterword had said that the story pulled at his being and called him to write it. And I could see why. Mental health problems were written in a understandable manner. I liked how the author neither glossed it over nor went over the top with it, but used it brilliantly in the story along with character build-up.
I hadn’t read a book like this and at 120 odd pages, it was one quick read. The last few chapters tied the loose ends together, and the author brought reality to the precipice of fiction.
September 4, 2020
I enjoyed this immensely, from the beginning till the end. Right from the prologue, I was hooked because it was so intense. The prologue really set the tone of the whole story. Though it was a bit confusing at first when after the prologue, the main character, Phil Mercer is introduced. But that’s the thing, the mystery surrounding the crimes in the prologue and what Phil Mercer is about to do is what kept me glued to my kindle. It was very engaging.
Then the parlor game happened. I think it is absolutely brilliant. When Phil invited his colleagues to play his invented parlor game called Comfort Zone, things get even more interesting. I didn’t know what will happen next, or I have an idea but still, I’m driven with anticipation on every page. And as a character, I found Phil a very well-written one. He has depths and very well-developed. And knowing his story, the things he’d gone through, I was just amazed on how he was created by the author.
The book also explored mental illness at a very deep level, which I think is amazing because the book is only 120+ pages long. It’s too short and yet it managed to be very thorough on the theme it tackles. Very applaudable. Speaking of short…This is my only issue which is not really an issue. I just wish this is a much longer book. I will definitely read this one even if it’s as long as Stephen King’s novels.
Overall, this is a very well-written book, short but very satisfying. I highly recommend this to crime, thriller and even mystery lovers.
Then the parlor game happened. I think it is absolutely brilliant. When Phil invited his colleagues to play his invented parlor game called Comfort Zone, things get even more interesting. I didn’t know what will happen next, or I have an idea but still, I’m driven with anticipation on every page. And as a character, I found Phil a very well-written one. He has depths and very well-developed. And knowing his story, the things he’d gone through, I was just amazed on how he was created by the author.
The book also explored mental illness at a very deep level, which I think is amazing because the book is only 120+ pages long. It’s too short and yet it managed to be very thorough on the theme it tackles. Very applaudable. Speaking of short…This is my only issue which is not really an issue. I just wish this is a much longer book. I will definitely read this one even if it’s as long as Stephen King’s novels.
Overall, this is a very well-written book, short but very satisfying. I highly recommend this to crime, thriller and even mystery lovers.
September 2, 2020
The main character and narrator of this enthralling thriller is a complex individual who had various mental health issues. Even though we are now living in the 21st century and despite the fact that mental health issues don't carry as much stigma as they did in the past. There are still people that scoff at and ridicule others whose brains refuse to work properly. Intrusive thoughts are one of the terrifying aspects of mental health, add onto that the shocking treatment that Phil Mercer had apparently experienced in the past then you have a ticking time bomb that is bound to explode at some point. There have been a number of cases where people who have mental health issues have gone into a dissociative fugue and murdered their loved ones. Is this what happened to Phil and if it was then it's very unfair if we readers judge him as unlikable when he had no control over his behaviour and actions. Were we being cleverly manipulated by the author and Phil into feeling sympathy for someone who was really insane or a cold blooded killer and was hiding behind a mask. What really happened in Afghanistan in 2002? We all know that terrible atrocities are carried out in war torn countries and sometimes the truth is locked away by the powers that be and never divulged to the public.
This is a well written, thought provoking story that keeps the reader guessing and causes you to experience a wide range of emotions. The plot definitely took the reader out of your comfort zone at times especially during some of theocrats that were set in Afghanistan. This is the first of this author's books that I have read and I would happily read more of his books in the future.
This is a well written, thought provoking story that keeps the reader guessing and causes you to experience a wide range of emotions. The plot definitely took the reader out of your comfort zone at times especially during some of theocrats that were set in Afghanistan. This is the first of this author's books that I have read and I would happily read more of his books in the future.
August 25, 2021
What a story to keep you involved until you find out the end. Who knows what’s in people’s minds. Kind or perhaps a killer. You have to read the book to find out!
September 20, 2020
Think you have the suspense/thriller/crime genres down pat? Not sure anything can surprise you? Hang on for Stephen Bentley’s COMFORT ZONE and I do mean HANG ON! Ready yourself for unexpected twists, dark and terrifying turns and be prepared to face everything Phil Mercer must face.
What is reality, what is a game, what is going on in Phil Mercer’s mind? Is it real? Dark, gritty, filled with the unexpected, this tale of crime will have you reeling!
I was invited to receive a complimentary copy from Hendry Publishing via NetGalley! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication Date : August 3, 2020
Publisher : Hendry Publishing
Genre: Suspense
Print Length : 262 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
What is reality, what is a game, what is going on in Phil Mercer’s mind? Is it real? Dark, gritty, filled with the unexpected, this tale of crime will have you reeling!
I was invited to receive a complimentary copy from Hendry Publishing via NetGalley! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication Date : August 3, 2020
Publisher : Hendry Publishing
Genre: Suspense
Print Length : 262 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 6, 2020
This is my first book by the author. I was sold on the blurb and was banking on the "storytelling dinner game" where you reveal your dark side or fears. Thats some serious storytelling and you cant just call it "HEY, ITS ALL FUN AND GAMES."
The first page opens with quite a gruesome and graphic start, being the very visual person I am, it was horrid. I braced myself for whats to come further in the book and it was disturbing, I will never be prepared for it I guess.
The reading experience was a crazy ride which had me zoning out quite a few times and other times being glued to it. I have mixed feelings about it, but overall it didnt entertain me as much as I had anticipated.
It breaks my heart to write this but I did not like this book in a deep way, so I would say happy to start reading it but disappointed once done.
The good thing about the book is it is a short read and sheds some light on the mental condition of PTSD and how it changes people.
Thankyou NetGalley and the publishers for sending me this e ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The first page opens with quite a gruesome and graphic start, being the very visual person I am, it was horrid. I braced myself for whats to come further in the book and it was disturbing, I will never be prepared for it I guess.
The reading experience was a crazy ride which had me zoning out quite a few times and other times being glued to it. I have mixed feelings about it, but overall it didnt entertain me as much as I had anticipated.
It breaks my heart to write this but I did not like this book in a deep way, so I would say happy to start reading it but disappointed once done.
The good thing about the book is it is a short read and sheds some light on the mental condition of PTSD and how it changes people.
Thankyou NetGalley and the publishers for sending me this e ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2020
Powerful book!!!!
I have read all of Stephen Bentley’s books!!
I Enjoy his books!!
So, I thought I knew the style this story would take.
I was wrong (and satisfied to be wrong!!)
It is a slower paced story yet is very suspenseful!!
As the story progressed, I knew I was going to give the book a Great rating.
Then I finished the story.
I wish I could give it an above Great rating!!!!
The story is complex and very well written!!
The story is still in my thoughts and I suspect that it will
always
be in my thoughts!!
It is a Powerful story!!
PTSD and Mental Illness are issues that should
be discussed.
These issues evolve throughout the story.
PTSD and Mental Illness do evolve in a person.
The way Stephen Bentley wrote both evolving reflects his Great writing!!
I hope many people read this book.
This story will affect people for needed change!!
I have read all of Stephen Bentley’s books!!
I Enjoy his books!!
So, I thought I knew the style this story would take.
I was wrong (and satisfied to be wrong!!)
It is a slower paced story yet is very suspenseful!!
As the story progressed, I knew I was going to give the book a Great rating.
Then I finished the story.
I wish I could give it an above Great rating!!!!
The story is complex and very well written!!
The story is still in my thoughts and I suspect that it will
always
be in my thoughts!!
It is a Powerful story!!
PTSD and Mental Illness are issues that should
be discussed.
These issues evolve throughout the story.
PTSD and Mental Illness do evolve in a person.
The way Stephen Bentley wrote both evolving reflects his Great writing!!
I hope many people read this book.
This story will affect people for needed change!!
June 20, 2022
This book is very disturbing and not solely because of the actions of Phil Mercer. No, it's because what was done to Phil when he was a prisoner in Afghanistan is not as far-fetched as it would have been twenty years ago.
Mind altering drugs do exist. A person's mind can be 'broken', given the right mixture of deprivation and stimulus, changing the 'fanciful' to 'possible'.
This book was very well written and researched. The characters and events were extremely believable. The pace will have turning those pages.
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Comfort Zone through StoryOrigin and have chosen to leave a review.
Mind altering drugs do exist. A person's mind can be 'broken', given the right mixture of deprivation and stimulus, changing the 'fanciful' to 'possible'.
This book was very well written and researched. The characters and events were extremely believable. The pace will have turning those pages.
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of Comfort Zone through StoryOrigin and have chosen to leave a review.
August 30, 2020
🥰
Phil Mercer, a lawyer has invented a parlour game and is set out to get revenge on all who has harmed in one way or another. Phil Mercer doesn't let go of grudges and is hell bent on making people pay whatever the cost. All he needs is them all in a room at his dinner party and then the game begins. Rules are simple, tell something about yourself that no one knows already. Comfort zone is anything but.......
This story opens so many possibilities for other stories relating to it. Brilliant back story for starters, so many twists and turns, I didnt know which way I was facing by the end lol. The book deals heavily with mental illness as a result of past traumas, PTSD and DID mainly (i have some experience with these disorders but not personally).
The book hits you right away with a murder which is revisted later in the book after certain other events are revealed and for me it was a AH moment as it hit me who the murderer was.
Comfort Zone was anything but that and as a result a brilliant read and I hope we see Phill Mercer again one day.
Phil Mercer, a lawyer has invented a parlour game and is set out to get revenge on all who has harmed in one way or another. Phil Mercer doesn't let go of grudges and is hell bent on making people pay whatever the cost. All he needs is them all in a room at his dinner party and then the game begins. Rules are simple, tell something about yourself that no one knows already. Comfort zone is anything but.......
This story opens so many possibilities for other stories relating to it. Brilliant back story for starters, so many twists and turns, I didnt know which way I was facing by the end lol. The book deals heavily with mental illness as a result of past traumas, PTSD and DID mainly (i have some experience with these disorders but not personally).
The book hits you right away with a murder which is revisted later in the book after certain other events are revealed and for me it was a AH moment as it hit me who the murderer was.
Comfort Zone was anything but that and as a result a brilliant read and I hope we see Phill Mercer again one day.
August 3, 2020
Be prepared for a deep, dark, and extremely intense story. The author takes you inside the mind of a man who suffers from PTSD after brutal abuse and mental torture while imprisoned during the Afghanistan war.
You won't want to put this book down as it pulls you in through slow twists and turns of powerful drama.
I've read all of Stephen Bentley's books. This story is very different from his previous work. It shows another side to his amazing talent with words; one you won't soon forget.
I received an advanced reader copy but the opinions and review are my own honest comments.
You won't want to put this book down as it pulls you in through slow twists and turns of powerful drama.
I've read all of Stephen Bentley's books. This story is very different from his previous work. It shows another side to his amazing talent with words; one you won't soon forget.
I received an advanced reader copy but the opinions and review are my own honest comments.
October 3, 2020
Perhaps the most intriguing character I have “met” in a long time. Phil Mercer is a deeply damaged man and I was inclined to sympathise with him. A veteran, Phil Mercer has suffered greatly and this book really gives visibility to the impact which killing people must have on a man’s psyche. And then the dark depths of his character were revealed and it was so shocking! The story was chilling and gripping but, if I am being honest, everything was secondary to the compelling creation which is Phil Mercer.
August 3, 2020
I really enjoyed this suspense filled story. The story telling is done through various points of view with flashbacks and dreams, as well. This story takes you in! I found Comfort Zone completely compelling and engrossing. I’ve read that this story is not Stephen Bentley’s usual writing style. I can’t comment on that as this is the first of his books I’ve read. It certainly won’t be the last! Thanks to the author, I received an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2020
Disturbing!
A very different read for me that will stay in my thoughts for a long time. Stephen Bentley has written about the tragic life and mental illness of Philip Mercer. Philip Mercer served in Afghanistan, where he and a fellow officer were taken prisoner, tortured and brainwashed. An absolute page turner and an in depth look into the mental anguish that Philip Mercer endured , and in turn led to murder. Brilliantly written. Highly recommend.
A very different read for me that will stay in my thoughts for a long time. Stephen Bentley has written about the tragic life and mental illness of Philip Mercer. Philip Mercer served in Afghanistan, where he and a fellow officer were taken prisoner, tortured and brainwashed. An absolute page turner and an in depth look into the mental anguish that Philip Mercer endured , and in turn led to murder. Brilliantly written. Highly recommend.
July 16, 2020
Not the usual genre of book by this author but wow what a story, it had more twists and turns then a formula 1 racetrack. Well worthy of the 5 stars and in fact I'd go as far as saying 5+ Star rating.
April 17, 2021
(Audiobook) The first part of the book is a little tricky to follow but stay with it because as the various storylines unfold, twist, turn and then combine we're seeing a man in mental hell. It is a crime and horror novel combined from an entirely unique perspective. The narrator adds an additional dimension of suspense in his excellent performance.
May 31, 2022
This was a disturbing story about mental illness. It just goes to show that you never know who is suffering. Phil was just a ticking time bomb. With his memories gone his thoughts made no sense. Then he started hearing Vincents voice and things went downhill from there. A great story with an ending that will shock you.
September 28, 2023
A story about mental health and one man's journey through the ups and downs of his life.
This is a great tale with plenty of twists and turns as the truth struggles to free itself from the layers of subterfuge that have suppressed a man's memories
The audio version is brilliantly narrated and this adds to grow the tension throughout the book
This is a great tale with plenty of twists and turns as the truth struggles to free itself from the layers of subterfuge that have suppressed a man's memories
The audio version is brilliantly narrated and this adds to grow the tension throughout the book
September 2, 2020
Comfort Zone opens with what appears to be stalking, which turns into a kidnapping, that turns into a horrific murder.
And that was just the prologue!
Phil Mercer, an English barrister, has lost much… his brother, mother, and beloved wife, Liz, all in two short years.
Phil also appears to be losing his mind.
A “voice” who introduces himself as Vincent is encouraging Phil to kill… to take revenge on those people he believed to be friends, but they instead hindered or stifled his legal career and financial situation.
While he agrees with Vincent, Phil Mercer isn’t a killer. Or is he?
The back and forth with Phil/Vincent reminded me of Smeagol/Gollum and I wondered who would win in the end.
Phil decides retribution is his to take, but as he moves closer to his parlor game, a summons from court convinces him he’s going to prison for perjury and he sinks into depression. However, spurred on by Vincent, he sets his plan in motion.
Stephen Bentley’s plot twists kept me on edge. Learning Phil’s military backstory brings clarity… and pity for the barrister, but things are still not as they seem and I don’t know who’s more confused, Phil or me. HA!
I’m not saying anyone deserves to die because that would be… wrong, of course, but Phil Mercer is surrounded by some pretty awful people who evoke little sympathy in every stage of his life, and even after, however, in the end, I still can’t decide if Phil is crazy, or crazy like a fox.
This quick read is great suspense with psychological and noir elements you won’t see coming. It looks like an easy, open and shut case on the surface, but trust me, there’s nothing easy about Phil Mercer or the Comfort Zone.
Enjoy!
And that was just the prologue!
Phil Mercer, an English barrister, has lost much… his brother, mother, and beloved wife, Liz, all in two short years.
Phil also appears to be losing his mind.
A “voice” who introduces himself as Vincent is encouraging Phil to kill… to take revenge on those people he believed to be friends, but they instead hindered or stifled his legal career and financial situation.
While he agrees with Vincent, Phil Mercer isn’t a killer. Or is he?
The back and forth with Phil/Vincent reminded me of Smeagol/Gollum and I wondered who would win in the end.
Phil decides retribution is his to take, but as he moves closer to his parlor game, a summons from court convinces him he’s going to prison for perjury and he sinks into depression. However, spurred on by Vincent, he sets his plan in motion.
Stephen Bentley’s plot twists kept me on edge. Learning Phil’s military backstory brings clarity… and pity for the barrister, but things are still not as they seem and I don’t know who’s more confused, Phil or me. HA!
I’m not saying anyone deserves to die because that would be… wrong, of course, but Phil Mercer is surrounded by some pretty awful people who evoke little sympathy in every stage of his life, and even after, however, in the end, I still can’t decide if Phil is crazy, or crazy like a fox.
This quick read is great suspense with psychological and noir elements you won’t see coming. It looks like an easy, open and shut case on the surface, but trust me, there’s nothing easy about Phil Mercer or the Comfort Zone.
Enjoy!
August 2, 2021
*Spoilers*
I’d like to thank the author and Evan at Story Origin for an audible copy of this psychological thriller. Everything that I write are of my own opinion!
I had a hard time getting into the story at first, as I’ve never heard of or read any books by Stephen Bentley. There was part of me that honestly felt like giving up because I felt like I was wasting my time. I have read so many really good books in this genre!
I have to say that I’m so glad that I stayed the course! I really appreciate how real and vividly Mr. Bentley described people who have certain mental illnesses. Philip Mercer for instance has been coping with PTSD and a form of amnesia because of some very disturbing and heinous things that were done to him when he and his friend Tommy were taken hostage in Afghanistan.
The book would go back and forth from the present time and back to his days when he was being tortured.
I found it so very heartbreaking to think about those that struggle with certain mental health issues due to no fault of their own. It really has me thinking about the number of people who are brutalized and tortured in this way and it’s all kept under wraps.
My heart felt for Philip and the person he no longer used to be. He began hearing voices of Vincent in his head and even started believing that he was seeing this man before him, telling him what to do.
I would say that this book is definitely worth reading or listening to. I’ve been going through health issues and mourning the loss of 3 loved ones and that could be why I had a hard time in the beginning. My mind probably just wasn’t fully invested.
This book is gruesome in some areas but I don’t think it’s anything worse than what you might read in other books or watch in horror shows or even some crime shows. I would definitely keep up with reading his books.
I’d like to thank the author and Evan at Story Origin for an audible copy of this psychological thriller. Everything that I write are of my own opinion!
I had a hard time getting into the story at first, as I’ve never heard of or read any books by Stephen Bentley. There was part of me that honestly felt like giving up because I felt like I was wasting my time. I have read so many really good books in this genre!
I have to say that I’m so glad that I stayed the course! I really appreciate how real and vividly Mr. Bentley described people who have certain mental illnesses. Philip Mercer for instance has been coping with PTSD and a form of amnesia because of some very disturbing and heinous things that were done to him when he and his friend Tommy were taken hostage in Afghanistan.
The book would go back and forth from the present time and back to his days when he was being tortured.
I found it so very heartbreaking to think about those that struggle with certain mental health issues due to no fault of their own. It really has me thinking about the number of people who are brutalized and tortured in this way and it’s all kept under wraps.
My heart felt for Philip and the person he no longer used to be. He began hearing voices of Vincent in his head and even started believing that he was seeing this man before him, telling him what to do.
I would say that this book is definitely worth reading or listening to. I’ve been going through health issues and mourning the loss of 3 loved ones and that could be why I had a hard time in the beginning. My mind probably just wasn’t fully invested.
This book is gruesome in some areas but I don’t think it’s anything worse than what you might read in other books or watch in horror shows or even some crime shows. I would definitely keep up with reading his books.
August 8, 2020
This is quite an unusual book, very cleverly written and very believable. It deals with the sensitive subject of mental illness in an unusual but very effective way.
The book starts with a rather graphic murder, but we don't learn who the killer was until later in the book, just one of the twists and turns which are at the heart of this book.
Some of the book is written in the third person, and some in the first person, the first person passages are from the viewpoint of Phil Mercer, an intelligent man who works as a barrister, but who is suffering from a reversal of his fortunes and not getting enough work to cover his expenses.
It gradually becomes clear that he is suffering from a mental illness as he hears voices telling him that the people he blames for his failure must be made to suffer.
Further into the book the difference between reality and Phil's delusions becomes more blurred and we learn that he definitely has a very dark side, but what caused the dark side is truly shocking when it is revealed
With lots of plots twists and realistic characters the book is certainly brilliantly written, however, for many the descriptions of what Phil went through and also the descriptions of the various murders will take many readers out of their 'comfort zone'.
I received an advance copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
The book starts with a rather graphic murder, but we don't learn who the killer was until later in the book, just one of the twists and turns which are at the heart of this book.
Some of the book is written in the third person, and some in the first person, the first person passages are from the viewpoint of Phil Mercer, an intelligent man who works as a barrister, but who is suffering from a reversal of his fortunes and not getting enough work to cover his expenses.
It gradually becomes clear that he is suffering from a mental illness as he hears voices telling him that the people he blames for his failure must be made to suffer.
Further into the book the difference between reality and Phil's delusions becomes more blurred and we learn that he definitely has a very dark side, but what caused the dark side is truly shocking when it is revealed
With lots of plots twists and realistic characters the book is certainly brilliantly written, however, for many the descriptions of what Phil went through and also the descriptions of the various murders will take many readers out of their 'comfort zone'.
I received an advance copy of the book, but have voluntarily written this honest review.
August 4, 2020
I just finished reading Comfort Zone: A Tale of Suspense by Stephen Bentley, former undercover British detective, now crime author. The book is different than Bentley's previous novels. Comfort Zone is a thriller and a crime story, but not as fast-paced as The Steve Regan Undercover Cop Thrillers Trilogy or Mercy: A Detective Matt Deal Thriller. Comfort Zone is more complex.
Phil Mercer is one of the most intriguing characters I've read about in a long time. Mercer is a British veteran who returns home from the war in Afghanistan and studies law, then becomes an attorney in London. He is also a murderer who is not completely evil even though he's done evil things. He defends the poor and underprivileged citizens. Phil Mercer is not a one-dimensional character. The author writes about the humanity of a person who has taken the lives of other people. Like when watching a tragic play, I felt sympathy for Mercer at various times and then cringed at the murder scenes. The novel is also a mystery because the parts of the story come together in the end, similar to how the different parts of Mercer meld into one. I think he comes to accept his fragments and acknowledges them.
The title comes from the name of a parlor game at a dinner party that Mercer gives for his friends and colleagues in the legal profession. He's invited them because he wants to show off his cooking skills and to play the game he's invented. Every detail of the menu, the wines, the guests and the game is planned with precision.
Phil Mercer suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) from his war experiences. His role as an attorney is stressful, but he's able to do a good job. The author uses Mercer's military background to explore issues that many veterans experience such as long-lasting, even permanent, mental, and physical illnesses. Many serious traumas may cause PTSD, but since Mercer is a combat veteran, his wartime experiences continue to influence his life. War always has an enemy no matter whose side you're on, and Mercer's nemesis haunts him when he attempts to live a normal life. The opposing roles of Phil Mercer, a murderer given in to the temptation to kill, and an attorney, driven by order, logic, and law, make for a unique protagonist. Bentley does a great service in the way he writes about Mercer's interior dialogue, hallucinations, depression, and memory problems. He does not make Phil Mercer a stereotype of a mentally ill person. Mercer is a sympathetic character; one who is approachable for the reader. I liked Phil Mercer so much that I can visualize his character in further novels by the author.
Told through flashbacks, dream sequences, and various points of view, Comfort Zone is a first-rate story. Crime novel fans will be entertained by Comfort Zone. I highly recommend reading this book. I received this book from the author as an ARC.
Phil Mercer is one of the most intriguing characters I've read about in a long time. Mercer is a British veteran who returns home from the war in Afghanistan and studies law, then becomes an attorney in London. He is also a murderer who is not completely evil even though he's done evil things. He defends the poor and underprivileged citizens. Phil Mercer is not a one-dimensional character. The author writes about the humanity of a person who has taken the lives of other people. Like when watching a tragic play, I felt sympathy for Mercer at various times and then cringed at the murder scenes. The novel is also a mystery because the parts of the story come together in the end, similar to how the different parts of Mercer meld into one. I think he comes to accept his fragments and acknowledges them.
The title comes from the name of a parlor game at a dinner party that Mercer gives for his friends and colleagues in the legal profession. He's invited them because he wants to show off his cooking skills and to play the game he's invented. Every detail of the menu, the wines, the guests and the game is planned with precision.
Phil Mercer suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) from his war experiences. His role as an attorney is stressful, but he's able to do a good job. The author uses Mercer's military background to explore issues that many veterans experience such as long-lasting, even permanent, mental, and physical illnesses. Many serious traumas may cause PTSD, but since Mercer is a combat veteran, his wartime experiences continue to influence his life. War always has an enemy no matter whose side you're on, and Mercer's nemesis haunts him when he attempts to live a normal life. The opposing roles of Phil Mercer, a murderer given in to the temptation to kill, and an attorney, driven by order, logic, and law, make for a unique protagonist. Bentley does a great service in the way he writes about Mercer's interior dialogue, hallucinations, depression, and memory problems. He does not make Phil Mercer a stereotype of a mentally ill person. Mercer is a sympathetic character; one who is approachable for the reader. I liked Phil Mercer so much that I can visualize his character in further novels by the author.
Told through flashbacks, dream sequences, and various points of view, Comfort Zone is a first-rate story. Crime novel fans will be entertained by Comfort Zone. I highly recommend reading this book. I received this book from the author as an ARC.
August 29, 2020
A real nail-biting, tense and chilling read
A veteran of the Afghan war. Phil Mercer has built a new life for himself and is now a barrister. His life however, begins to unravel when he starts to hear the voice of 'Vincent' who is urging him to take a murderous revenge on those people from his past who have supposedly wronged him in some way.
The author then brilliantly takes us on a tense and chilling page turning ride through Mercer's descent into a mental breakdown with terrible, tragic consequences.
What we don't discover until later in the book is what happened in Mercer's past which has triggered the current events that are graphically described by the author in his own inimitable style, never over the top, never understated.
The ending of the book is... I won't say because it would spoil other people's enjoyment of a superb and sympathetic depiction of one man's descent into a living hell, not of his own making.
This is a must read, and I wish I could give it an extra star for its originality, but 5 stars will have to suffice.
A veteran of the Afghan war. Phil Mercer has built a new life for himself and is now a barrister. His life however, begins to unravel when he starts to hear the voice of 'Vincent' who is urging him to take a murderous revenge on those people from his past who have supposedly wronged him in some way.
The author then brilliantly takes us on a tense and chilling page turning ride through Mercer's descent into a mental breakdown with terrible, tragic consequences.
What we don't discover until later in the book is what happened in Mercer's past which has triggered the current events that are graphically described by the author in his own inimitable style, never over the top, never understated.
The ending of the book is... I won't say because it would spoil other people's enjoyment of a superb and sympathetic depiction of one man's descent into a living hell, not of his own making.
This is a must read, and I wish I could give it an extra star for its originality, but 5 stars will have to suffice.
August 15, 2020
Stephen Bentley does it again! He drew me in with the character Phil Mercer. The British veteran is a complex character, evoking sympathy as he struggles with his personal demons. Don’t let this writer fool you, within the character are the darker side that will stand your hair on end.
The portrayal of Mercer as he suffers from PTSD is compelling and heart-wrenching. Many may feel this trauma is another antagonist in the story as the key character falls prey to his own mental and physical illness.
The conflicted of Phil Mercer, in one flash a man battling the temptation to kill, which is against his passion for the law and justice. Stephen Bentley is compassionate in his creation of Mercer and the impact this illness has on his life. Phil Mercer is a character you will root for and pray for.
In short, crime novel fans will enjoy Comfort Zone, I highly this book.
The portrayal of Mercer as he suffers from PTSD is compelling and heart-wrenching. Many may feel this trauma is another antagonist in the story as the key character falls prey to his own mental and physical illness.
The conflicted of Phil Mercer, in one flash a man battling the temptation to kill, which is against his passion for the law and justice. Stephen Bentley is compassionate in his creation of Mercer and the impact this illness has on his life. Phil Mercer is a character you will root for and pray for.
In short, crime novel fans will enjoy Comfort Zone, I highly this book.
September 23, 2022
This book started off with the bang or rather with a chainsaw. When I said this book was the mental it was so totally demented. Philip Mercer felt slighted and decided to bring all those who he thought agreed to buy to play a game at his home called “comfort zone.“ The game is meant to draw people out of their comfort zone and it totally does in the worst way. I thoroughly enjoyed this book I thought it was horrid on so many levels. If you like the most gruesome type of horror then read this book it starts with the first chapter and ends with a total Godsmack! A highly recommend this grow some read if you love whore with a great plot you’ll love this book. Even if your interest is just the PTSD and mental aspects of the baron I think you could still appreciate this great read! Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review I want to thank Stephen Bentley in story origin for my review copy.
December 23, 2020
Thought provoking.
An extremely interesting book to read bringing mental illness to the forefront. From the start you wonder where the gruesome murders are leading. With the author cleverly alternating between the present and past actions, we understand what is happening and why.
The mind of Mr Mercer is totally corrupted by an unfortunate incident in Afghanistan which have serious repercussions on his return to the UK. To a degree you can understand and sympathise with him and wonder if this could actually happen. We all know about Governmental cover ups!
A very enjoyable read from a reliable author.
An extremely interesting book to read bringing mental illness to the forefront. From the start you wonder where the gruesome murders are leading. With the author cleverly alternating between the present and past actions, we understand what is happening and why.
The mind of Mr Mercer is totally corrupted by an unfortunate incident in Afghanistan which have serious repercussions on his return to the UK. To a degree you can understand and sympathise with him and wonder if this could actually happen. We all know about Governmental cover ups!
A very enjoyable read from a reliable author.
August 7, 2020
Comfort Zone is a compelling thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
In this book, the author deals with mental illness, trauma, and PTSD as ever-evolving disorders. Phil Mercer, lawyer and murderer, is an interesting character who defines the melding of good and evil. This story engaged my interest from start to finish with flashbacks, dreams, well-planned murder, and twists and turns.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of crime thrillers.
I read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book with no obligation.
In this book, the author deals with mental illness, trauma, and PTSD as ever-evolving disorders. Phil Mercer, lawyer and murderer, is an interesting character who defines the melding of good and evil. This story engaged my interest from start to finish with flashbacks, dreams, well-planned murder, and twists and turns.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of crime thrillers.
I read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book with no obligation.
August 26, 2020
After an eerie prologue, the reader is thrust into the life of Phil Mercer. Phil had worked 14 years as a barrister. Now, he has "voices" that are directing him as to what he needs to do. Inner thoughts, perhaps?
There are a number of people who have taken advantage of Phil or just outright turned on him. It is Phil's turn for revenge! Phil is not sure if he does/does not want to kill these people, yet revenge sounds sweet. The "voice" tells Phil it is a MUST! These people (mostly solicitors/barristers) NEED to be taken care of. soon.
First Phil visits a Russian at a car boot sale as he pieces his plan together. He invents a game - Comfort Zone- and a dinner party to go with the game. Sounds just fine to Phil...
A different kind of read, I enjoyed the story very much!
Many Thanks to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for a very good read.
There are a number of people who have taken advantage of Phil or just outright turned on him. It is Phil's turn for revenge! Phil is not sure if he does/does not want to kill these people, yet revenge sounds sweet. The "voice" tells Phil it is a MUST! These people (mostly solicitors/barristers) NEED to be taken care of. soon.
First Phil visits a Russian at a car boot sale as he pieces his plan together. He invents a game - Comfort Zone- and a dinner party to go with the game. Sounds just fine to Phil...
A different kind of read, I enjoyed the story very much!
Many Thanks to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for a very good read.
August 24, 2020
Stephen Bentley has written a fast-paced psychological crime story about Phil Mercer, a compassionate man who served his country in Afghanistan and comes home to his wife suffering from PTSD, depression, hallucinations, and memory loss. A compelling character who studies law and draws you into his world of crime then doesn't let the reader go until the very end of the book.
I truly enjoyed the twists and turns, the intrigue, and the roller coaster ride of a great book, never knowing what will happen next. It's a powerful read.
I truly enjoyed the twists and turns, the intrigue, and the roller coaster ride of a great book, never knowing what will happen next. It's a powerful read.
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