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I Am Here to Kill You: A psychological crime thriller
Charming. Charismatic. Beautiful.Deadly?The members of a local support group are captivated by the new arrival, Sheena Strachan. Each member has a reason for attending. Some hide dark, sinister secrets. But why is Sheena there...? The group's leader, Rose, unexpectedly stops attending meetings. With Sheena at the helm, the group goes from strength to strength, both in numbers and commitment. But why are the residents of the sleepy town start turning against each other? And is the body found floating in the river really the result of an accident? One mystery, however, stands out more than all the others.Who is here to kill who…?I AM HERE TO KILL YOU is a compelling psychological thriller with a stunning twist. This is Chris Westlake's fourth novel. 30 Days in June was his first crime thriller. You can discover more about Chris, and his novels, on his www.chriswestlakeauthor.co.uk
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2020
120 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Chris Westlake
9 books5 followersChris’s page-turning novels will make you doubt what happens next, but leave you in no doubt that you sure as hell want to find out. His thrillers toy with your mind and play with your emotions.
Chris has published five novels, including three thrillers. His latest novel, THE F-WORD REALITY SHOW, is a compelling thriller which will leave you wondering whether the cameras that follow your every move are your best friend or your worst enemy.
30 DAYS IN JUNE is a serial killer thriller, and I AM HERE TO KILL YOU is a psychological thriller, with a key focus on cults, the power of manipulation, and brainwashing.
After completing a Creative Writing course in 2010, Chris Westlake's short story, Welsh Lessons, was awarded 1st place in the Global Short Story Award (not bad for the first writing competition he had entered). He followed this up with 1st place in the Stringybark Erotic Fiction Award and 2nd place in the HASSRA Literary Award.
Chris is determined to write many, many more novels - his main regret is that he didn't start writing earlier. He is always looking to make his next novel even better than the last. He is continuously experimenting with different styles, different genres.
You can discover more about Chris on his website, www.chriswestlakewriter.com
Chris has published five novels, including three thrillers. His latest novel, THE F-WORD REALITY SHOW, is a compelling thriller which will leave you wondering whether the cameras that follow your every move are your best friend or your worst enemy.
30 DAYS IN JUNE is a serial killer thriller, and I AM HERE TO KILL YOU is a psychological thriller, with a key focus on cults, the power of manipulation, and brainwashing.
After completing a Creative Writing course in 2010, Chris Westlake's short story, Welsh Lessons, was awarded 1st place in the Global Short Story Award (not bad for the first writing competition he had entered). He followed this up with 1st place in the Stringybark Erotic Fiction Award and 2nd place in the HASSRA Literary Award.
Chris is determined to write many, many more novels - his main regret is that he didn't start writing earlier. He is always looking to make his next novel even better than the last. He is continuously experimenting with different styles, different genres.
You can discover more about Chris on his website, www.chriswestlakewriter.com
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 3, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
I Am Here To Kill You is a very well-crafted and compelling psychological thriller that I polished off in a few days. My great enjoyment of this book was probably enhanced by a measure of ignorance on my part. I will explain.
Every so often Whispering Stories send me a list of titles and I suggest which books I would like to read. They download a batch to my Kindle and it may be a few weeks before I read them. When I get to a particular book I tend to just read it and only afterwards will I check the details.
Consequently, I read I Am Here To Kill You with an open mind and with no idea of what was to come. I also failed to recognise Chris Westlake’s name for which I must apologise, having given 30 Days in June a four star review just twelve months ago. Indeed, I even wondered if Chris was female, so empathic was the writing from the viewpoint of the female characters.
The book is written in the first person from the viewpoint of several varied characters so I had the feeling that I knew them all well. (Actually, at the denouement I realised that I didn’t know all of them but that’s another story). As the narrators change neatly with each chapter, there were only a couple of occasions when I had to check back to see who was talking.
Westlake ensures that the action keeps moving. The prologue gives a hint of what is to come but otherwise the story builds around fairly mundane small town life but the strength of the characters and their relationships locks you in and builds the intrigue.
As the story climaxes the plot becomes darker, at which point the author brings in all manner of twists and turns that will explain and surprise you at the same time.
I Am Here To Kill You provided me with excellent entertainment. It deserves nothing less than five stars.
I Am Here To Kill You is a very well-crafted and compelling psychological thriller that I polished off in a few days. My great enjoyment of this book was probably enhanced by a measure of ignorance on my part. I will explain.
Every so often Whispering Stories send me a list of titles and I suggest which books I would like to read. They download a batch to my Kindle and it may be a few weeks before I read them. When I get to a particular book I tend to just read it and only afterwards will I check the details.
Consequently, I read I Am Here To Kill You with an open mind and with no idea of what was to come. I also failed to recognise Chris Westlake’s name for which I must apologise, having given 30 Days in June a four star review just twelve months ago. Indeed, I even wondered if Chris was female, so empathic was the writing from the viewpoint of the female characters.
The book is written in the first person from the viewpoint of several varied characters so I had the feeling that I knew them all well. (Actually, at the denouement I realised that I didn’t know all of them but that’s another story). As the narrators change neatly with each chapter, there were only a couple of occasions when I had to check back to see who was talking.
Westlake ensures that the action keeps moving. The prologue gives a hint of what is to come but otherwise the story builds around fairly mundane small town life but the strength of the characters and their relationships locks you in and builds the intrigue.
As the story climaxes the plot becomes darker, at which point the author brings in all manner of twists and turns that will explain and surprise you at the same time.
I Am Here To Kill You provided me with excellent entertainment. It deserves nothing less than five stars.
April 23, 2021
I pretty much inhaled this in an afternoon and it was still on my mind days later. I found this to be cleverly written as I couldn’t guess what was going to happen.
I really don’t want to say much about the storyline as I think you need to read this yourself. Great plot twists had me glued to the story.
I can’t believe this is my first read by this author. I’m so looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I really don’t want to say much about the storyline as I think you need to read this yourself. Great plot twists had me glued to the story.
I can’t believe this is my first read by this author. I’m so looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
July 26, 2021
I was first drawn to this book because it has a great cover and is set in a small village 50+ miles outside Cardiff much like the village I was born and brought up in. However the author's village is very different to my own. It is a lot more middle class and it is full of twisted, duplicitous inhabitants and that's the beauty of this book. It set me to thinking, perhaps the people in my village were like that but I just was unaware of it. All sorts of things go on under a rock but you can only see the rock.
This book is a sequel to Chris Westlake's first book "30 days in June" that tells the tale of a serial killer from the Bridgend area of Wales. Thanks to some clever writing I am here to kill you can be read as a stand alone though with the benefit of hindsight I would have read 30 days in June first. (As an aside; immediately after reading I am here to kill you I bought 30 days in June that should tell you how much I enjoyed this book)
It is written in the first person, however the author avoids the pitfall of only seeing one point of view by having each chapter devoted to one of the main characters and seeing the narrative from their point of view. Very "Quantam Leap" and it works because there are huge differences in the characters. From the bored Thai bride, to ex hooligan with a heart of gold to the sad lonely widow who organises the support group. The author inhabits their souls extremely well.
Old memories are dredged up from those affected by horrific crimes. Others begin to see they are living a lie. Hidden desires are revealed and passions released. What originally seemed a bland community slowly morphs into Soddam and Gomorrah.
The author writes with a sure touch about the most scariest of things......yes that's right Women. Here they can be lovely cuddly bottles of nitro. Each one has depth and shade no 2D cardboard cutout stereotypes here.They can be just as ruthless as the men and a lot more cunning. Take Sheena as a case in point. The sexy stranger who enters the metaphoric quiet pond of the sleepy village of Pontbach and causes the ripples to radiate. She is manipulative and manipulated, depraved and wicked like a cross between Jessica Rabbit and Priti Patel.
The author swings our allegiance between the cast members as our understanding of them grows. There are several plotlines which I would love to expound upon but will refrain from doing so in case I give the game away.
If you cant tell already I really enjoyed this book. A thrillingly, well plotted, complex thriller that shows that underneath we are all far deeper than can be seen from the surface. Its up there with Alex Michaelides The Silent Patient
https://grumpyoldbooks.blogspot.com
#GrumpyOldBooks on twitter
This book is a sequel to Chris Westlake's first book "30 days in June" that tells the tale of a serial killer from the Bridgend area of Wales. Thanks to some clever writing I am here to kill you can be read as a stand alone though with the benefit of hindsight I would have read 30 days in June first. (As an aside; immediately after reading I am here to kill you I bought 30 days in June that should tell you how much I enjoyed this book)
It is written in the first person, however the author avoids the pitfall of only seeing one point of view by having each chapter devoted to one of the main characters and seeing the narrative from their point of view. Very "Quantam Leap" and it works because there are huge differences in the characters. From the bored Thai bride, to ex hooligan with a heart of gold to the sad lonely widow who organises the support group. The author inhabits their souls extremely well.
Old memories are dredged up from those affected by horrific crimes. Others begin to see they are living a lie. Hidden desires are revealed and passions released. What originally seemed a bland community slowly morphs into Soddam and Gomorrah.
The author writes with a sure touch about the most scariest of things......yes that's right Women. Here they can be lovely cuddly bottles of nitro. Each one has depth and shade no 2D cardboard cutout stereotypes here.They can be just as ruthless as the men and a lot more cunning. Take Sheena as a case in point. The sexy stranger who enters the metaphoric quiet pond of the sleepy village of Pontbach and causes the ripples to radiate. She is manipulative and manipulated, depraved and wicked like a cross between Jessica Rabbit and Priti Patel.
The author swings our allegiance between the cast members as our understanding of them grows. There are several plotlines which I would love to expound upon but will refrain from doing so in case I give the game away.
If you cant tell already I really enjoyed this book. A thrillingly, well plotted, complex thriller that shows that underneath we are all far deeper than can be seen from the surface. Its up there with Alex Michaelides The Silent Patient
https://grumpyoldbooks.blogspot.com
#GrumpyOldBooks on twitter
April 11, 2021
Have you ever read a psychological thriller where you didn’t have a single clue what was happening? Where you were hooked and compelled to keep reading to crack the mystery? Where you were ultimately met with a stunningly fantastic twist at the end? This is that book!
With a cleverly layered plot and brilliant characterisation, this book had me scrambling about in the dark, looking for crumbs of information right up to the very end. Told from multiple POV, each narrative draws you in to each character and their story. You know all isn’t what it seems yet you just can’t put your finger on it... I felt like I was an outsider in this secret riddled village desperately clawing to be accepted and included, to know what was being kept from me. And boy! I would never have guessed in a million years once it was finally revealed to me.
The pace was just right, and the writing punchy and gritty. Out of all the characters, I think I perhaps liked only two but each one kept me intrigued and were absolutely worthy of their chapters and narrative.
I only discovered at the end that there is a prequel to this book, which I will be adding to my TBR - do I wish I had read it before? Nope, I actually really enjoyed being kept in the dark and clawing my way to the end for answers.
Thoroughly recommended for all who thrive on a good psychological thriller.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens and the author for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With a cleverly layered plot and brilliant characterisation, this book had me scrambling about in the dark, looking for crumbs of information right up to the very end. Told from multiple POV, each narrative draws you in to each character and their story. You know all isn’t what it seems yet you just can’t put your finger on it... I felt like I was an outsider in this secret riddled village desperately clawing to be accepted and included, to know what was being kept from me. And boy! I would never have guessed in a million years once it was finally revealed to me.
The pace was just right, and the writing punchy and gritty. Out of all the characters, I think I perhaps liked only two but each one kept me intrigued and were absolutely worthy of their chapters and narrative.
I only discovered at the end that there is a prequel to this book, which I will be adding to my TBR - do I wish I had read it before? Nope, I actually really enjoyed being kept in the dark and clawing my way to the end for answers.
Thoroughly recommended for all who thrive on a good psychological thriller.
I received an advance review copy from Book Sirens and the author for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 23, 2021
A local support group turns dangerous. All the women who attend have a reason for being there. Most have dark secrets.
The new addition of Sheena Strachan causes some major changes in the group. The group's leader disappears and she's then arrested for the murder of her husband. But did she really commit murder?
Under Sheena's leadership, things get even more bizarre. There are new rules. No men allowed in the group. Men are the enemy. No one can talk about what goes on behind these closed doors.
Who, exactly, is Sheena and what is her agenda?
A slow starter for me, it soon picked up the pace and suspense was maintained until the unexpected ending. There are multiple characters to follow, and some seem to have deeply buried secrets ... and they'll do whatever necessary to keep them from the light of day. The plot is well-executed with a few twists and turns, the ending was a surprise.
Many thanks to the author / Booksirens for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
The new addition of Sheena Strachan causes some major changes in the group. The group's leader disappears and she's then arrested for the murder of her husband. But did she really commit murder?
Under Sheena's leadership, things get even more bizarre. There are new rules. No men allowed in the group. Men are the enemy. No one can talk about what goes on behind these closed doors.
Who, exactly, is Sheena and what is her agenda?
A slow starter for me, it soon picked up the pace and suspense was maintained until the unexpected ending. There are multiple characters to follow, and some seem to have deeply buried secrets ... and they'll do whatever necessary to keep them from the light of day. The plot is well-executed with a few twists and turns, the ending was a surprise.
Many thanks to the author / Booksirens for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
March 3, 2021
This was definitely a strange story. It took me a minute to get into it and to figure who everyone was ( it swaps between multiple people). I did keep reading though just to see if maybe it would get better, and I must say was shocked at the twist in the end!
April 28, 2021
There is nothing I love more than a psychological thriller with no obvious serial killer, just your everyday seemingly "normal" citizens with deep dark secrets. Mr. Westlake does this in spades.
As the reader gets to know several characters one by one, the sinister plot unfolds around a women's therapy group in a small town in Wales. A stranger arrives with a mission to pit the local women against the men causing a ripple of doubt and anger; enough to kill and falsely accuse the innocent. Who is guilty? You will be surprised.
The characters range from vulnerable to cunning and clueless to creepy. I'm not thrilled reading about infidelity, but it's a big part of the plot. And though I am a woman, I did feel bad for some of the men in the story who truly cared about their wives and marriage. Frankly, some of the women were very unpleasant and I certainly wouldn't want to be friends with them.
If you love a chilling whodunit with a twist you won't see coming, give this book a try.
Thank you to Mr. Westlake for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
As the reader gets to know several characters one by one, the sinister plot unfolds around a women's therapy group in a small town in Wales. A stranger arrives with a mission to pit the local women against the men causing a ripple of doubt and anger; enough to kill and falsely accuse the innocent. Who is guilty? You will be surprised.
The characters range from vulnerable to cunning and clueless to creepy. I'm not thrilled reading about infidelity, but it's a big part of the plot. And though I am a woman, I did feel bad for some of the men in the story who truly cared about their wives and marriage. Frankly, some of the women were very unpleasant and I certainly wouldn't want to be friends with them.
If you love a chilling whodunit with a twist you won't see coming, give this book a try.
Thank you to Mr. Westlake for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
February 22, 2021
Rollercoaster thriller
Loved this book. Read in two sittings. The characters were interesting and the storyline rolled along at speed. I didn't guess the outcome at all. Lots of twists and turns that kept me up reading until the early hours. Highly recommend this book.
Loved this book. Read in two sittings. The characters were interesting and the storyline rolled along at speed. I didn't guess the outcome at all. Lots of twists and turns that kept me up reading until the early hours. Highly recommend this book.
Read
January 28, 2021It was a very strange story. Kept reading just to see if it got better. Interesting twist at the end. Didn't expect it.
April 30, 2021
I am Here To Kill You by Chris Westlake, he is another new author for me, lately I have been introduced to quite a few new authors and I love this hobby I have, finding new authors who write fabulous books and this one is another one of those books.
Set in Wales, in a sleepy Welsh town, Pontbach. Sheena Strachan is a charismatic and beautiful woman who has caused a ripple of unease in Pontbach. She is a stranger in the town and swiftly places herself in the midst of the women's support group, a group who meet to discuss past amd present worries or issues. The men of the village definitely notice her attractiveness but she had no interest in their attention. Sheena seems to have made a beeline to the women of the town, her agenda is not as innocent as everyone would assume. She begins a game of manipulation using the power of suggestion and also using the secrets they have against them. She ousts who she wishes from the group and carries on manipulating people to her own end. The affects of her mind games changes people as they fall deeper into her trap. Sheena is not the only one in the town who knows how to use manipulation to their own gain. Is Sheena's game hers or is someone else playing at the same time? Is she as in charge as she believes she is, or is someone pulling the strings?
Not exactly crammed with characters that I could say I liked. There were some that I could say I felt for, noone is perfect and how can anyone say they wouldn't be the same after experiencing the things that some of these did in this book?
This book has a beginning that captivates you straight away. The main character, Sheena is such a unpleasant person that I couldn't wait to see how long it all took, if it did at all for her to get what she deserved. A very well written and brilliantly plotted book. The characters are quite different and that really makes the book an interesting read. Most of the time I was really waiting for what was coming next, racing through the book dying to know the next bit.
An immersive read with enough turns and twists to put a rollercoaster to shame, loved this one.
Thank you to Emma of Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Chris Westlake for the copy if the book and my place on the tour.
Set in Wales, in a sleepy Welsh town, Pontbach. Sheena Strachan is a charismatic and beautiful woman who has caused a ripple of unease in Pontbach. She is a stranger in the town and swiftly places herself in the midst of the women's support group, a group who meet to discuss past amd present worries or issues. The men of the village definitely notice her attractiveness but she had no interest in their attention. Sheena seems to have made a beeline to the women of the town, her agenda is not as innocent as everyone would assume. She begins a game of manipulation using the power of suggestion and also using the secrets they have against them. She ousts who she wishes from the group and carries on manipulating people to her own end. The affects of her mind games changes people as they fall deeper into her trap. Sheena is not the only one in the town who knows how to use manipulation to their own gain. Is Sheena's game hers or is someone else playing at the same time? Is she as in charge as she believes she is, or is someone pulling the strings?
Not exactly crammed with characters that I could say I liked. There were some that I could say I felt for, noone is perfect and how can anyone say they wouldn't be the same after experiencing the things that some of these did in this book?
This book has a beginning that captivates you straight away. The main character, Sheena is such a unpleasant person that I couldn't wait to see how long it all took, if it did at all for her to get what she deserved. A very well written and brilliantly plotted book. The characters are quite different and that really makes the book an interesting read. Most of the time I was really waiting for what was coming next, racing through the book dying to know the next bit.
An immersive read with enough turns and twists to put a rollercoaster to shame, loved this one.
Thank you to Emma of Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Chris Westlake for the copy if the book and my place on the tour.
April 5, 2021
This is the first time I have read a book by this author and I have to say, that I thoroughly enjoyed the twisted psychological journey he took me on.
The story is of a group of women who come together to support each other, they have been doing so for several years. Members come and go and it is a laid back meeting where the women if they want to, can share their feeling, experiences or troubles. Things are good until a newcomer enters the village.
I am going to be quite vague with this review as I don't want to spoil the reading for others. This newcomer is a pleasant enough person, to begin with, but not everyone takes to her. Along with some key characters, the author weaves a story that definitely leans towards the darker side of human nature. It's a manipulative and twisted story if ever there was one. I did think I had a handle on who was doing what, but no, more was to come.
The author writes his female characters so well, there were times when I thought this was a female author writing. There are not the usual stereotypes so this makes it such a refreshing read. He explores the more risque nature of the characters in a series of challenges and pushes them to the limits with great success.
I really liked the twisted route the author took, it has several things going on as there are a good amount of characters. They are easy to get to grips with as they are introduced in a good way so that you are not inundated with a rush of names. The more you get to know the characters, the more you understand the reasons for what they do, well to a point as I mentioned earlier there are still surprises to come. I did like how the conclusion came around and it seemed like a very fitting way to finish the book. It answered the questions and mysteries that gradually built up and gave a satisfying ending.
I really enjoyed this and it was great to read a psychological thriller that felt different to what I would normally read. I read this over a couple of sittings but could have easily read it in one. This is one for those who like a psychological mystery style thriller and it is one I would definitely recommend.
The story is of a group of women who come together to support each other, they have been doing so for several years. Members come and go and it is a laid back meeting where the women if they want to, can share their feeling, experiences or troubles. Things are good until a newcomer enters the village.
I am going to be quite vague with this review as I don't want to spoil the reading for others. This newcomer is a pleasant enough person, to begin with, but not everyone takes to her. Along with some key characters, the author weaves a story that definitely leans towards the darker side of human nature. It's a manipulative and twisted story if ever there was one. I did think I had a handle on who was doing what, but no, more was to come.
The author writes his female characters so well, there were times when I thought this was a female author writing. There are not the usual stereotypes so this makes it such a refreshing read. He explores the more risque nature of the characters in a series of challenges and pushes them to the limits with great success.
I really liked the twisted route the author took, it has several things going on as there are a good amount of characters. They are easy to get to grips with as they are introduced in a good way so that you are not inundated with a rush of names. The more you get to know the characters, the more you understand the reasons for what they do, well to a point as I mentioned earlier there are still surprises to come. I did like how the conclusion came around and it seemed like a very fitting way to finish the book. It answered the questions and mysteries that gradually built up and gave a satisfying ending.
I really enjoyed this and it was great to read a psychological thriller that felt different to what I would normally read. I read this over a couple of sittings but could have easily read it in one. This is one for those who like a psychological mystery style thriller and it is one I would definitely recommend.
April 26, 2021
I’d like to thank Emma from Damp Pebbles for contacting me to take part in this blog tour. I’ve never read anything by Chris Westlake and am always on the look out for new authors to add to the collection.
I Am Here To Kill You is a fast paced, gripping psychological thriller, told from the POV of several characters. Whilst I enjoyed the different view points I did get a little confused at the start, trying to follow everyone’s story. Sheena and Kat’s stories were the most interesting and I particularly liked how Kat’s character developed throughout.
I would of loved more backstory to Sheena, she was someone who obviously had issues and took great enjoyment in playing the puppet master. She rocked up to the little welsh village and gained control over all the women, using them for her games. I was amazed how quickly they all bent to her every need, they lapped up all her beliefs and were completely taken in by her charismatic personality.
At points I did find the feminist, hating men attitude a little wearing. This support group had gone from being a group of kind, perhaps trouble ladies to vengeful, sex mad lunatics! At points I found the sexualisation of the women a little over the top and I kept wondering when one of the men were going to grow a back bone!
Throughout the whole story I had no idea how it was going to end or what Sheena’s final game plan would be, after the explosive start I knew it was going to be shocking. Nothing could of prepared me for the final revelations and horrifying ending! This was a well written, clever and striking read filled with dark, secretive characters.
I Am Here To Kill You is a fast paced, gripping psychological thriller, told from the POV of several characters. Whilst I enjoyed the different view points I did get a little confused at the start, trying to follow everyone’s story. Sheena and Kat’s stories were the most interesting and I particularly liked how Kat’s character developed throughout.
I would of loved more backstory to Sheena, she was someone who obviously had issues and took great enjoyment in playing the puppet master. She rocked up to the little welsh village and gained control over all the women, using them for her games. I was amazed how quickly they all bent to her every need, they lapped up all her beliefs and were completely taken in by her charismatic personality.
At points I did find the feminist, hating men attitude a little wearing. This support group had gone from being a group of kind, perhaps trouble ladies to vengeful, sex mad lunatics! At points I found the sexualisation of the women a little over the top and I kept wondering when one of the men were going to grow a back bone!
Throughout the whole story I had no idea how it was going to end or what Sheena’s final game plan would be, after the explosive start I knew it was going to be shocking. Nothing could of prepared me for the final revelations and horrifying ending! This was a well written, clever and striking read filled with dark, secretive characters.
March 7, 2023
Chris Westlake's latest psychological thriller takes us to Pontbach, a sleepy Welsh town nestled on the banks of the River Wye. Here, the tranquil rhythms of community life are disrupted by the arrival of a glamorous incomer from London, Sheena Strachan. Beautiful and charismatic, Sheena quickly integrates into village affairs, joining the local women's support group which meets weekly for the discussion of woes and worries, both historic and current. Her arresting beauty does not go unnoticed by the local pub regulars but Sheena seems more interested in cultivating friendships amongst the the town's womenfolk. A skilled manipulator, Sheena has a mysterious past and a toxic, hidden agenda. Plotting to change the power dynamic and focus of the women's group, she spins a tangled and sinister web that eventually ensnares a host of locals, exposing hidden tensions, simmering jealousies, old secrets and suppressed emotions. Why has she come to Pontbach? She seems to know more about the town's history than one would expect. What are her intentions? What is she hiding? The novel will hook you from the startling first chapter, keep you turning the pages as the plot takes unexpected turns, and is guaranteed to shock you with its final spectacular twists.
January 16, 2021
A small welsh village has a new arrival, Sheena, only that's not her true identity. She arrived due to something a friend pointed out about the town. There is a women's group which she joins led by Rose for anyone wanting to air their problems. Bernard is happily married for the second time to a Thai bride Apinya. He used to employ Rose and so knows her well, so when she feels out of sorts she turns to him for advice when she leaves the group for a while. Meanwhile Sheena and Kat have taken over and the group dynamics take rather a shift. when everyone seems to be against each other and there is a murder, what on earth has happened and why?. I enjoyed this, it takes a little getting into to get to know each character and where they are coming from in the plot. Each chapter is headed with a character and timeline and its worth bearing with as it soon becomes clear. A complicated web of plots, lies and deceit and of how the human mind can be led astray. An enjoyable, mind activating read.
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April 8, 2021
4 Stars from me
Although this is a follow on from 30 Days in June, you could easily read this as a standalone I think it works just as well without the prior knowledge.
In addition to being an almost comedic murder/psychological thriller, I am Here to Kill You shines a bleak light on humanity as virtually every single character is a base, disappointing, self-obsessed and down right unpleasant human being, no one is capable of being faithful and no one seems to have any true or altruistic thoughts or intentions. That is not a village I would want to move to - or does it hold an accurate mirror up against humanity as a whole?
Am I overthinking it?
If it were a film it would certainly be a black comedy and I could easily see the temptress Sheena being played by someone like the character Julia Davis played in Nighty Night.
Always unsettling, occasionally creepy, generally uncomfortable - Christ Westlake certainly paints a strong picture of life in a sleepy little village. For what it's worth, I think my favourite character was Bernard.
Although this is a follow on from 30 Days in June, you could easily read this as a standalone I think it works just as well without the prior knowledge.
In addition to being an almost comedic murder/psychological thriller, I am Here to Kill You shines a bleak light on humanity as virtually every single character is a base, disappointing, self-obsessed and down right unpleasant human being, no one is capable of being faithful and no one seems to have any true or altruistic thoughts or intentions. That is not a village I would want to move to - or does it hold an accurate mirror up against humanity as a whole?
Am I overthinking it?
If it were a film it would certainly be a black comedy and I could easily see the temptress Sheena being played by someone like the character Julia Davis played in Nighty Night.
Always unsettling, occasionally creepy, generally uncomfortable - Christ Westlake certainly paints a strong picture of life in a sleepy little village. For what it's worth, I think my favourite character was Bernard.
May 30, 2021
I loved this book from start to finish. Cleverly written from the point of view of some of the main characters.
You know a book is well written when the reader ends up hating one of the characters and boy did I hate Sheena.
The story showed how she slowly but surely infiltrated the local women’s self-help group and gradually took over. She cleverly manipulated these women with the aim of turning them into men haters. What is her hidden agenda ? Through clever writing the reader can see what she is doing(even though the women themselves can’t). You are kept wondering what is she up to and what is her overall plan. I found myself commenting out loud as to the stupidity and naivety of some of these women.
I found myself cheering for Rose (the previous group leader) as she started fighting back but was really worried Sheena would find out and stop her.
Loved the brilliant twists at the end which were so well hidden that the reader couldn’t see them coming. Definitely like Chris Westlake’s style of writing.
You know a book is well written when the reader ends up hating one of the characters and boy did I hate Sheena.
The story showed how she slowly but surely infiltrated the local women’s self-help group and gradually took over. She cleverly manipulated these women with the aim of turning them into men haters. What is her hidden agenda ? Through clever writing the reader can see what she is doing(even though the women themselves can’t). You are kept wondering what is she up to and what is her overall plan. I found myself commenting out loud as to the stupidity and naivety of some of these women.
I found myself cheering for Rose (the previous group leader) as she started fighting back but was really worried Sheena would find out and stop her.
Loved the brilliant twists at the end which were so well hidden that the reader couldn’t see them coming. Definitely like Chris Westlake’s style of writing.
June 7, 2021
Every once in a while, I come across a book that doesn’t just keep me guessing but makes me wonder what the heck is going on. This is one of those books. I had a hard time getting through the beginning because after a bang-up opener (almost literally), the author immediately switches gears to introducing multiple characters. I’m glad I stuck with it though, because at about 40% I started to see the connections. At that point, I realized how clever the author had been at the beginning, slowly revealing bits and pieces that seemed innocuous but were actually quite telling. At halfway through, everything started to become clear – to paraphrase one of the characters, the pieces started to fall into place. From there to the end, it became quite a page-turner, as the motivations of certain characters became clearer, and events occurred that shined even more light on how everything was connected. For a detailed review, please visit Fireflies and Free Kicks. Thank you to Damp Pebbles for a digital copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
July 22, 2021
What a suspenseful psychological thriller and OMG what an ending! You think you understand something and then realize you don’t know anything! The characters are interesting and the plot is full of twists! I cannot stop thinking about all the bits and pieces throughout the book as the author laid them out.
It starts with a point in time and then takes us back in time (up to 1 year ago) and we get to see from different point of views how we got to the events of the first chapter and beyond. This book is the sequel as I understand but you can definitely read it as a standalone (I know I have)!
I would recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers!
I received a free copy of this book I am voluntarily leaving a review and all opinions are my own.
It starts with a point in time and then takes us back in time (up to 1 year ago) and we get to see from different point of views how we got to the events of the first chapter and beyond. This book is the sequel as I understand but you can definitely read it as a standalone (I know I have)!
I would recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers!
I received a free copy of this book I am voluntarily leaving a review and all opinions are my own.
April 22, 2021
This book is a compelling psychological thriller that explores the potential power and devastation of manipulation.
I thought this book was really good. The concept of the story is absolutely mind-blowing crazy. Although you hope it’s far fetched you won’t want to put it down.
The characters are toxic, each of them have a dark and mysterious past, some are dangerous. They manipulate, lie and use seduction to cause absolute chaos in a sleepy town in Wales but eventually this all comes to catch up with them.
I was not expecting the ending, or the revelations in the lead up to the ending. I did feel the last few pages felt a bit rushed but it was all very cleverly written.
I thought this book was really good. The concept of the story is absolutely mind-blowing crazy. Although you hope it’s far fetched you won’t want to put it down.
The characters are toxic, each of them have a dark and mysterious past, some are dangerous. They manipulate, lie and use seduction to cause absolute chaos in a sleepy town in Wales but eventually this all comes to catch up with them.
I was not expecting the ending, or the revelations in the lead up to the ending. I did feel the last few pages felt a bit rushed but it was all very cleverly written.
February 8, 2021
This is actually a 4.5/5. It is a very good psychological thriller. You are led to believe in one antagonist only to find out there is more than one. The story is told from the viewpoint of several characters while dovetail neatly The suspense builds nicely throughout, looking forward to what the antagonist will do next.this was an advanced review copy through BookSiren and the author for my honest review.
May 26, 2025
This book confused me, not sure if I enjoyed it or if I finished it for the sake of reading it.
The idea of ‘I am here to kill you’ was nicely thought out, with the usual who and why being an underlying theme throughout each chapter.
Who was going to kill who? Kat? Sheena? The husbands? Aspinya? Rose? What’s was the link between Kat’s brother’s and parents’ death with this ‘Daniel’
All became clear but almost too obviously.
The idea of ‘I am here to kill you’ was nicely thought out, with the usual who and why being an underlying theme throughout each chapter.
Who was going to kill who? Kat? Sheena? The husbands? Aspinya? Rose? What’s was the link between Kat’s brother’s and parents’ death with this ‘Daniel’
All became clear but almost too obviously.
March 28, 2021
Wow - what was all that about?
Read over 2 days and kept wondering throughout what was happening and where it was going - all in a good way. Short punchy chapters and a great mix of characters. Piques your interest from the start and maintains it until the end.
Read over 2 days and kept wondering throughout what was happening and where it was going - all in a good way. Short punchy chapters and a great mix of characters. Piques your interest from the start and maintains it until the end.
January 20, 2021
Gripping
Wow, really couldn't put this book down! Exciting thriller with a difference! & unexpected outcome. await the next book keenly!
Wow, really couldn't put this book down! Exciting thriller with a difference! & unexpected outcome. await the next book keenly!
February 16, 2021
Wow
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I really liked the plot twists. And the ending was out-of-this-world! Very good read!
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I really liked the plot twists. And the ending was out-of-this-world! Very good read!
February 16, 2021
Really enjoyed this. The chapters are about a character in the book, at first they felt like separate stories but then you can start to see them coming together.
Some good twists and turns to it which I like.
My one criticism which is the same with so many books now is that there were errors with wrong words being used so a sentence wouldn’t make sense so you have to see what word should actually be there but didn’t spoil my enjoyment to much
Some good twists and turns to it which I like.
My one criticism which is the same with so many books now is that there were errors with wrong words being used so a sentence wouldn’t make sense so you have to see what word should actually be there but didn’t spoil my enjoyment to much
June 6, 2021
This was a very interesting book and great story line. There were so many twists and turns which I like in a book to keep me entertained.
Recommended
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Recommended
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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