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Into The Lake
Can she find the truth in time?
When Natalie reluctantly agrees to attend a school reunion, she hits it off with former classmate Josh - a boy she barely spoke to while they were at school together - and finds herself swept up in a whirlwind romance with him.
Then she receives the message: you can do better than marrying a murderer.
As Natalie pieces together the tragic story of the teenage girl who drowned at Chedford Lake, she realises she has the perfect opportunity to clear Josh’s name. But it will mean putting herself in serious danger – and betraying someone she loves.
With Josh spiralling deeper into despair, and her own life torn apart by lies, can Natalie unravel what really happened before it is too late?
When Natalie reluctantly agrees to attend a school reunion, she hits it off with former classmate Josh - a boy she barely spoke to while they were at school together - and finds herself swept up in a whirlwind romance with him.
Then she receives the message: you can do better than marrying a murderer.
As Natalie pieces together the tragic story of the teenage girl who drowned at Chedford Lake, she realises she has the perfect opportunity to clear Josh’s name. But it will mean putting herself in serious danger – and betraying someone she loves.
With Josh spiralling deeper into despair, and her own life torn apart by lies, can Natalie unravel what really happened before it is too late?
Audiobook
First published June 25, 2021
13 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
L.K. Chapman
13 books135 followersLK Chapman writes psychological thrillers about relationships, family drama, secrets and lies – from dark and disturbing tales of obsession and jealousy, to twisty thrillers with a dash of romance – her passion is creating characters that get under your skin and stories that keep you gripped.
Chapman’s books are inspired by her studies in psychology, and she has always been fascinated by the strength, peculiarities and extremes of human nature. As well as working as a psychologist, Chapman volunteered for mental health charity Mind before starting her journey as an author. It has been an incredibly exciting journey and she is so grateful for the support of her readers.
When she is not writing, Chapman will usually be found in her garden or getting out and enjoying the outdoors – immersing herself in nature and giving her mind a chance to work on her next story!
You can receive a free copy of my short story Worth Pursuing, as well as news about new releases, by signing up to the LK Chapman reading group: www.lkchapman.com/free-book-offer
You can find out more about LK Chapman by visiting her website.
Chapman’s books are inspired by her studies in psychology, and she has always been fascinated by the strength, peculiarities and extremes of human nature. As well as working as a psychologist, Chapman volunteered for mental health charity Mind before starting her journey as an author. It has been an incredibly exciting journey and she is so grateful for the support of her readers.
When she is not writing, Chapman will usually be found in her garden or getting out and enjoying the outdoors – immersing herself in nature and giving her mind a chance to work on her next story!
You can receive a free copy of my short story Worth Pursuing, as well as news about new releases, by signing up to the LK Chapman reading group: www.lkchapman.com/free-book-offer
You can find out more about LK Chapman by visiting her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
June 27, 2021
Natalie and Josh have both worked hard to get their life on track after their tragic pasts. When they meet at their school reunion they click and fall in love , but someone cannot stand their happiness and will stop at nothing to derail their plans.
Into the Lake by L.K.Chapman is a dark , twisty ,psychological read ..A well written fast paced plot that does not let up makes it an entertaining read
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers request group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
Into the Lake by L.K.Chapman is a dark , twisty ,psychological read ..A well written fast paced plot that does not let up makes it an entertaining read
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers request group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
August 28, 2021
You meet the love of your life and start receiving messages telling you he’s a murderer. What do you do? Dump him or help him? Natalie doesn’t know Josh very well. They only knew each other a short time before he proposed, but it felt so right. She was so happy. Until her Vlog followers start attacking her and accusing Josh of being a murderer. Then turn their vicious comments towards her.
Since her car accident, which left her with facial scars that ended her modeling career, Natalie has worked for her SIL as a wedding planner. But it was her Vlog she was most proud of because it helped ease the pain of the accident and losing her career.
Natalie was a strong character, despite everything she’s been through. I admired that. But Josh spent most of his time feeling sorry for himself. All his sniveling got tiring. Several twists were slightly predictable. If I didn’t read so many thrillers, I probably would have been shocked by some of the events.
I didn’t appreciate the narration as much as some readers did and this is the only NetGalley audiobook I’ve had issues listening to. I almost gave up because of that and the book probably would have been more enjoyable without those issues.
Sincere thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Audio. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My Rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s
Published: September 9th 2021
Audio: 9 hours 47 min
#IntoTheLake #LKChapman #NetGalley #BookReviewer #InExchangeForReview #ARC #JustFinished #Thriller #AudioBook
After publication my reviews can be found at Amazon, Twitter, GoodReads, Barnes and Noble, BookBub, NetGalley, and Edelweiss
@Dreamscapeaudio @NetGalley
Since her car accident, which left her with facial scars that ended her modeling career, Natalie has worked for her SIL as a wedding planner. But it was her Vlog she was most proud of because it helped ease the pain of the accident and losing her career.
Natalie was a strong character, despite everything she’s been through. I admired that. But Josh spent most of his time feeling sorry for himself. All his sniveling got tiring. Several twists were slightly predictable. If I didn’t read so many thrillers, I probably would have been shocked by some of the events.
I didn’t appreciate the narration as much as some readers did and this is the only NetGalley audiobook I’ve had issues listening to. I almost gave up because of that and the book probably would have been more enjoyable without those issues.
Sincere thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Audio. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My Rating: 3.5 ⭐️’s
Published: September 9th 2021
Audio: 9 hours 47 min
#IntoTheLake #LKChapman #NetGalley #BookReviewer #InExchangeForReview #ARC #JustFinished #Thriller #AudioBook
After publication my reviews can be found at Amazon, Twitter, GoodReads, Barnes and Noble, BookBub, NetGalley, and Edelweiss
@Dreamscapeaudio @NetGalley
August 23, 2021
3.5⭐️
This was a mystery-thriller gone weird. Everything’s going along fine and then we dive into everyone’s past. The things that happened to all of them was tragic and that sets the stage for this mystery.
I didn’t think it was predictable and I couldn’t work it out. A few things definitely shocked me and I didn’t see that ending coming. If you like mystery-thrillers then you’ll probably enjoy this. I really liked Peter Noble as the narrator.
Thanks Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
This was a mystery-thriller gone weird. Everything’s going along fine and then we dive into everyone’s past. The things that happened to all of them was tragic and that sets the stage for this mystery.
I didn’t think it was predictable and I couldn’t work it out. A few things definitely shocked me and I didn’t see that ending coming. If you like mystery-thrillers then you’ll probably enjoy this. I really liked Peter Noble as the narrator.
Thanks Dreamscape Media via Netgalley.
February 28, 2025
Another day, another school reunion/murder book.
Although the book was well-written, it was not a standout in its crowded genre since it had pacing issues and required a huge suspension of disbelief.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Peter Noble. The narration was good but not great.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2021
Natalie and Josh re-met at a school reunion. They knew of each other from school, but had not spent any time together. Neither of them were looking, but they suddenly saw each other .. and the rest is history.
As they get closer to each other, Josh proposes and Natalie happily accepts. Each of them have something in their past that they are still dealing with.
Natalie was a model, had a bright future. But a car accident leaving a facial scar put an end to her career. She now works with her sister as a wedding event planner. When Josh looks at her, he doesn't see the scars.
Once word of their engagement gets out, Natalie receives an anonymous message ... You can do better than marry a murderer.
Josh confesses that as a teenager, he was with a girl that drowned in a local lake. He had tried to save her, but was overcome by the sheer iciness of the water. There were rumors that he had purposely drowned her. Eventually he tried to kill himself.
He thought this was all behind him ...
Natalie looks at this as an opportunity to discover the truth behind the drowning and clear Josh's name once and for all. But the more answers she seeks, the more questions arise. Is Josh actually innocent... or did he take the life of the drowned girl?
Suspenseful, the plot is well-written. The characters are deftly drawn, I could feel the tension and angst as experienced by both Natalie and Josh. There's plenty of secondary characters to watch .. Josh's half-brother, his best friend. Natalie has a contentious relationship with her family, and they also play a part. The chapters take the reader from events today to a few years before the girl drowned. The conclusion was fast and explosive, leading to a surprising conclusion.
Many thank to the author for the digital copy of this psychological fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
September 4, 2021
This story is a very well told suspense mystery with an in depth look into the complexity of human nature. Natalie goes to a high school reunion and ends up talking with Josh. He was a boy she didn't hang out with in school so she is meeting him for the first time. They connect well through conversation and begin dating, soon they are engaged and Natalie has never been happier. Then everything rapidly begins to fall apart when anonymous comments online bring up painful memories of the most difficult time in Josh's childhood. A girl he had a crush on, drowned during a camp out at a lake. As Josh spirals into a depressive state Natalie is determined to find out what happened then and who is gaslighting Josh now. There is good and bad in everyone and it is hard to really understand why a person may do certain things. The people in Josh's life that he thought he knew as being bad or being trustworthy may not fall so simply into those roles. The ending of this tale was a surprise to me and I really enjoyed it.
The narrator was good at conveying the suspense of the story and kept my attention. Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to thie e-ARC of Into the Lake and I look forward to more stories from L.K. Chapman.
The narrator was good at conveying the suspense of the story and kept my attention. Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to thie e-ARC of Into the Lake and I look forward to more stories from L.K. Chapman.
October 27, 2021
I struggled with this book, but the ending was a good turn around, all though it was seen.
August 25, 2021
Many thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for gifting me an audiobook of this mystery by LK Chapman and narrated by Peter Noble - 4 stars!
Natalie and Josh meet again at a class reunion and immediately hit it off. As they make plans to marry, Natalie starts receiving messages that Josh is a murderer. Josh explains that when he was younger, he tried to save another teenager but she drowned. Josh was cleared but remains feeling guilty. As the trolling becomes worse, Natalie decides she has to take drastic measures to find out the truth.
I thought this was a tense mystery/thriller. Both Josh and Natalie have past issues that add to the suspense. There is a good cast of other characters to add to the tension. The chapters go back into the past to fill out the story. Lots of triggers here - suicide, bullying. The narrator did a great job voicing the characters.
Natalie and Josh meet again at a class reunion and immediately hit it off. As they make plans to marry, Natalie starts receiving messages that Josh is a murderer. Josh explains that when he was younger, he tried to save another teenager but she drowned. Josh was cleared but remains feeling guilty. As the trolling becomes worse, Natalie decides she has to take drastic measures to find out the truth.
I thought this was a tense mystery/thriller. Both Josh and Natalie have past issues that add to the suspense. There is a good cast of other characters to add to the tension. The chapters go back into the past to fill out the story. Lots of triggers here - suicide, bullying. The narrator did a great job voicing the characters.
October 4, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Into The Lake is Incredibly gripping. I found to begin with It was a bit slow, but then suddenly it picks up and Incredibly well.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one, it was lots a very clever twists, threw me off my tracks several times. I ended up reading it really fast, desperately trying to find out how it ended. Poor Josh aswell, he had it so tough! Felt so sorry for him.
I've also just ordered a copy for my mum for a Xmas pressie!! Brilliant book, highly recommended!
Into The Lake is Incredibly gripping. I found to begin with It was a bit slow, but then suddenly it picks up and Incredibly well.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this one, it was lots a very clever twists, threw me off my tracks several times. I ended up reading it really fast, desperately trying to find out how it ended. Poor Josh aswell, he had it so tough! Felt so sorry for him.
I've also just ordered a copy for my mum for a Xmas pressie!! Brilliant book, highly recommended!
November 16, 2021
Natalie is a former model now social media star that attends her high school reunion. There she immediately hits it off with Josh and they become engaged after a whirlwind romance.
With each chapter reflecting a different point of view we learn that Josh harbors secrets that he is unable to share with Natalie. He is forced to do so, however, when comments on Natalie's social media posts accuse him of murder.
Is Josh a murderer? What about his awful half brother Toby? How does his best friend and confidant fit in with his new media app.
This was a good book. I didn't connect with the characters and felt the personal histories were a bit too drawn out. It was a slow start for me, and I felt like there were a few too many extra stories and details that obfuscated the true plot. This was an audio book and I really enjoyed Peter Noble as the narrator, his British accent is lovely.
If you enjoy a romantic, twisty, slow burning thriller, this could be for you!
Thank you L. K. Chapman, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the audio to listen to this book in return for my honest review. #Intothelake #NetGalley
With each chapter reflecting a different point of view we learn that Josh harbors secrets that he is unable to share with Natalie. He is forced to do so, however, when comments on Natalie's social media posts accuse him of murder.
Is Josh a murderer? What about his awful half brother Toby? How does his best friend and confidant fit in with his new media app.
This was a good book. I didn't connect with the characters and felt the personal histories were a bit too drawn out. It was a slow start for me, and I felt like there were a few too many extra stories and details that obfuscated the true plot. This was an audio book and I really enjoyed Peter Noble as the narrator, his British accent is lovely.
If you enjoy a romantic, twisty, slow burning thriller, this could be for you!
Thank you L. K. Chapman, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the audio to listen to this book in return for my honest review. #Intothelake #NetGalley
September 8, 2021
I enjoyed this book. It wasn't a favorite, or even one that will get a second go-around, but it was enjoyable. A nice whodunnit mystery, which I don't normally enjoy, but this one really had me guessing until the end. And, there were a few good twists that I definitely did not see coming. It gripped me right from the beginning.
Into the Lake begins with our protagonist, Natalie attending a high school reunion, where she runs into an old classmate, Josh, and sparks fly. Josh and Natalie are swept up in a whirlwind romance. They are quickly engaged and planning a wedding when Natalie, a popular vlogger, begins receiving messages and comments on her videos accusing Josh of murdering a fellow classmate, McKayla, back in highschool.
There are many viewpoints throughout this story and everyone is keeping secrets and telling lies. This story does a fantastic job of making you question every single character and their motives. Every last character is an unreliable narrator. I loved the way the author had me guessing and second guessing throughout the entire book. It was well written with a few flaws, but nothing that ruined the story in any way. Good book. 3.75 stars.
⭐⭐⭐
I must weigh in on the audio, however. It was flat out terrible. If the book hadn't gripped me as quickly as it did, I would have given up. This was probably the worst narrator I've ever listened to. His voices for everyone were terrible, but his voices for Josh and Natalie were the worst. I can safely say that I will never listen to another book narrated by this guy. Skip the audiobook and pick up the physical copy for this one.
Into the Lake begins with our protagonist, Natalie attending a high school reunion, where she runs into an old classmate, Josh, and sparks fly. Josh and Natalie are swept up in a whirlwind romance. They are quickly engaged and planning a wedding when Natalie, a popular vlogger, begins receiving messages and comments on her videos accusing Josh of murdering a fellow classmate, McKayla, back in highschool.
There are many viewpoints throughout this story and everyone is keeping secrets and telling lies. This story does a fantastic job of making you question every single character and their motives. Every last character is an unreliable narrator. I loved the way the author had me guessing and second guessing throughout the entire book. It was well written with a few flaws, but nothing that ruined the story in any way. Good book. 3.75 stars.
⭐⭐⭐
I must weigh in on the audio, however. It was flat out terrible. If the book hadn't gripped me as quickly as it did, I would have given up. This was probably the worst narrator I've ever listened to. His voices for everyone were terrible, but his voices for Josh and Natalie were the worst. I can safely say that I will never listen to another book narrated by this guy. Skip the audiobook and pick up the physical copy for this one.
September 3, 2021
3.5
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy of the audiobook.
This was a really interesting mystery read. Even though I was able to guess very early on who the real murderer is, the suspense at the end was really fun to listen to. I found it a bit slow in the beginning which gave me a lot of time to think about the twists and figure it out, from then it was just a waiting game. I will admit I didn't see the troll twist at all, wouldn't have in a million years, that one really shocked me.
I really enjoyed the romance element, to be honest. I know whirlwind romances might not be everyone's favorite but I really didn't mind. These were two people who have gone through tragic events, it was about time they found happiness. Speaking of tragic, Josh's story really broke me. I suspected Toby's pov which was revealed later on but it doesn't erase what Josh went through. There were times it was hard to keep going because I couldn't stand all the pain he was going through.
As far as audiobooks go, this was an okay listen. It wasn't earth-shattering but it wasn't terrible. I didn't have trouble listening to it at all and once I figured out how to speed the audio up, the story just flew by. I listened to it while I did chores and it made those entertaining so do with that as you will.
I recommend this for any mystery lovers or if you're just starting to get into the genre. It's not as heavy or dark as other thrillers but definitely a mystery in it's own right.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this advanced copy of the audiobook.
This was a really interesting mystery read. Even though I was able to guess very early on who the real murderer is, the suspense at the end was really fun to listen to. I found it a bit slow in the beginning which gave me a lot of time to think about the twists and figure it out, from then it was just a waiting game. I will admit I didn't see the troll twist at all, wouldn't have in a million years, that one really shocked me.
I really enjoyed the romance element, to be honest. I know whirlwind romances might not be everyone's favorite but I really didn't mind. These were two people who have gone through tragic events, it was about time they found happiness. Speaking of tragic, Josh's story really broke me. I suspected Toby's pov which was revealed later on but it doesn't erase what Josh went through. There were times it was hard to keep going because I couldn't stand all the pain he was going through.
As far as audiobooks go, this was an okay listen. It wasn't earth-shattering but it wasn't terrible. I didn't have trouble listening to it at all and once I figured out how to speed the audio up, the story just flew by. I listened to it while I did chores and it made those entertaining so do with that as you will.
I recommend this for any mystery lovers or if you're just starting to get into the genre. It's not as heavy or dark as other thrillers but definitely a mystery in it's own right.
September 6, 2021
I had little to no idea what this was about when.I went into this book, but it was a pretty decent read.
It was your pretty basic thriller, childhood friends, a new relationship and a dark secret that threatens to surface.
There were plenty of red herrings to throw you off the trail of the real culprit, but I have to say that I saw the end coming a couple of miles off, and thats okay because it was a fun ride, though it did lack atmosphere a bit.
I think that it was a little longer than it had to be, it could have done with a little more editing I think, because there were points where it felt like it was dragging a bit.
The audio quality and the narrator were good, I enjoyed my listening experience.
Another cool feature was the fact that in the course of the book, they did do discuss some heavier things, like suicide, bully/cyberbullying, etc and there were actually resources for those things listed at the end of the audiobook for both US and UK readers. I thought that was a particularly nice touch, since some things discussed could be triggering for some readers. Really well done.
Overall it was enjoyable. I would recommend this to someone who wanted to read something quick and easy on vacation or something.
It was your pretty basic thriller, childhood friends, a new relationship and a dark secret that threatens to surface.
There were plenty of red herrings to throw you off the trail of the real culprit, but I have to say that I saw the end coming a couple of miles off, and thats okay because it was a fun ride, though it did lack atmosphere a bit.
I think that it was a little longer than it had to be, it could have done with a little more editing I think, because there were points where it felt like it was dragging a bit.
The audio quality and the narrator were good, I enjoyed my listening experience.
Another cool feature was the fact that in the course of the book, they did do discuss some heavier things, like suicide, bully/cyberbullying, etc and there were actually resources for those things listed at the end of the audiobook for both US and UK readers. I thought that was a particularly nice touch, since some things discussed could be triggering for some readers. Really well done.
Overall it was enjoyable. I would recommend this to someone who wanted to read something quick and easy on vacation or something.
August 30, 2021
Natalie reluctantly attends her high school reunion. Natalie used to be a model until an accident left her with facial scars. She reconnects with Josh, who she didn't know very well during school. After a whirlwind relationship they get engaged. Then Natalie begins to receive messages that Josh is a murderer. That can't possibly be true. Right?
Told from different viewpoints during the high school times and current times.
Although it dragged from time to time it was a good book. I listened to the audio version and the narrator was good but for some reason I felt he didn't fit with the book. I liked his voice well enough but something just seemed off, but not really sure why I felt this way. There were a few surprises at the end which I always enjoy.
Thanks to netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the advance copy.
Told from different viewpoints during the high school times and current times.
Although it dragged from time to time it was a good book. I listened to the audio version and the narrator was good but for some reason I felt he didn't fit with the book. I liked his voice well enough but something just seemed off, but not really sure why I felt this way. There were a few surprises at the end which I always enjoy.
Thanks to netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the advance copy.
August 25, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up
The book is gripping from the first pages. Natalie and Josh meet again at their school reunion. Josh was carrying a torch for Nathalie for years so he is over the moon once when she accepts to marry him. However Josh come with a big personal luggage, lots of family history and past issues that are not so much buried in the past.
Things start to take a wrong turn when someone starts bullying Nathalie and Josh feels guilty for it.
The story unfolds rapidly and there are all king of twists and turns especially towards the end.
The ending is surprising and it feels like coming out of nowhere. Lots of secrets are uncovered and the culprits are people that did not raise a flag until then. Which can be a good or a bad thing. I would have preferred a more realistic ending, but it was a good one nevertheless.
All in all this is a good read, a nice thriller.
The
A big thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for allowing me to read this book.
The book is gripping from the first pages. Natalie and Josh meet again at their school reunion. Josh was carrying a torch for Nathalie for years so he is over the moon once when she accepts to marry him. However Josh come with a big personal luggage, lots of family history and past issues that are not so much buried in the past.
Things start to take a wrong turn when someone starts bullying Nathalie and Josh feels guilty for it.
The story unfolds rapidly and there are all king of twists and turns especially towards the end.
The ending is surprising and it feels like coming out of nowhere. Lots of secrets are uncovered and the culprits are people that did not raise a flag until then. Which can be a good or a bad thing. I would have preferred a more realistic ending, but it was a good one nevertheless.
All in all this is a good read, a nice thriller.
The
A big thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for allowing me to read this book.
September 15, 2021
I would not categorize this book as a thriller as I never found myself on the edge of my seat. I did like the story, but it progressed at a fairly slow, even rate and never made me want to read faster to find out the truth about the teenage drowning. I did not particularly care for Gareth, and Josh was unstable and whiny, but Toby's character was written really well as I thoroughly disliked him! When the truth is finally presented I didn't feel any big AHA moments and I also wasn't surprised. I listened to the audiobook version and I liked the narrator and felt he did a great job.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
June 21, 2021
I devoured this book on a rainy weekend day. The story was so compelling and all the characters involved had so many layers to them, I was intrigued from the first page.
I don't want to give any spoilers but do want other readers to know that once you start this book, you are hooked! don't expect to do anything else but think about it until you have read the last page.
I really liked the main character, she was so beautifully described in the novel, I felt like I knew her and I was invested in her relation ship with Josh from the first time they met up.
This is a really clever psychological thriller which keeps on delivering a twist, just when you think you have everything worked out.
I cannot recommend it enough.
I don't want to give any spoilers but do want other readers to know that once you start this book, you are hooked! don't expect to do anything else but think about it until you have read the last page.
I really liked the main character, she was so beautifully described in the novel, I felt like I knew her and I was invested in her relation ship with Josh from the first time they met up.
This is a really clever psychological thriller which keeps on delivering a twist, just when you think you have everything worked out.
I cannot recommend it enough.
July 11, 2021
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I was sucked into the story from the beginning with the way the characters are written with such depth and personality and the way that the story unfolds drawing the past into the present. I will be looking to read any other books by this author since I enjoyed this one so much. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
June 19, 2021
What a really interesting and exciting thriller of a read. This book is filled with complex and multi layered characters and an interesting mystery of a girls death many years before and a tortured man called Josh who due to a difficult childhood and lots of trauma starts to question his own memories of what really happened that night at the lake all those years ago. When he finds the love of his life things seem to spiral when her social media site gets trolled and wounds from the past start to take over. This is a great read.
July 29, 2021
Another gripping story from L K Chapman. I was engrossed from the start and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
October 7, 2021
Voiced from the perspectives of Natalie and Josh during the chapters that were set in the present day and Josh and his best friend Gareth when the story slipped into the past, this is a gripping and at times very dark thriller that covers a wide range of relatable and realistic issues.
In the chapters that were set in the present day, Natalie and Josh meet at a school reunion that they both had been initially reluctant to attend. After a whirlwind romance, Natalie moved in with Josh and they got engaged which was when things started going wrong. Natalie started receiving nasty comments on her vlog, some that hinted that Josh was a murderer and that Natalie should ask him about a girl called Mikaya and the incident at the lake. Like all prospective brides all Natalie wanted to do was concentrate on organising her upcoming wedding but once that seed of doubt had taken root in her brain, it started sprouting and spreading throughout her mind, infecting her thoughts and causing her to worry about Josh's behaviour and mental state of mind. Why had he suddenly started acting so strangely after she told him about the messages? Was her brother Rob right when he questioned how well she really knew Josh? They say that a leopard never changes it's spots, yet Josh's step brother Todd appeared to be a completely different person from the obnoxious bully that Josh said he was when the boy's were younger. Or was he, like other characters in the story hiding his true nature behind a mask? Natalie was determined to uncover the truth behind the messages but would get determination to prove that Josh was innocent result in her own life being placed in danger?
The chapters that were set in the past were set before,during and after the events at the lake and gave the reader a insight into Josh and Gareth's unhappy homelives. Both of the boy's lives were affected in different ways by mental illness and by the way that they were treated by the people who they should have been able to rely on. I felt a lot of empathy for younger Josh who hardly app to get any respite from his tormentor and his life just got worse after the tragic events that took place at the lake. I also felt a lot of empathy for Gareth's mentally tormented mother. But what had happened at the lake? Who was involved and knew the truth? How were events from the past connected to what was happening in the present day?
Into The Lake is a extremely well written,addictive thriller that hooks the reader in from the first page, keeps you guessing and glued to your kindle as the story unfolds before your captivated eyes. The plot covers some hard hitting and relatable issues that the author has written about with care and sensitivity. The cast of characters were vivid and realistic and there was numerous occasions throughout the book when I doubted the reliability and trustworthiness of some of their versions of events. This is the first book that I have read that was written by this author and it most definitely will not be my last. Very very highly recommended.
In the chapters that were set in the present day, Natalie and Josh meet at a school reunion that they both had been initially reluctant to attend. After a whirlwind romance, Natalie moved in with Josh and they got engaged which was when things started going wrong. Natalie started receiving nasty comments on her vlog, some that hinted that Josh was a murderer and that Natalie should ask him about a girl called Mikaya and the incident at the lake. Like all prospective brides all Natalie wanted to do was concentrate on organising her upcoming wedding but once that seed of doubt had taken root in her brain, it started sprouting and spreading throughout her mind, infecting her thoughts and causing her to worry about Josh's behaviour and mental state of mind. Why had he suddenly started acting so strangely after she told him about the messages? Was her brother Rob right when he questioned how well she really knew Josh? They say that a leopard never changes it's spots, yet Josh's step brother Todd appeared to be a completely different person from the obnoxious bully that Josh said he was when the boy's were younger. Or was he, like other characters in the story hiding his true nature behind a mask? Natalie was determined to uncover the truth behind the messages but would get determination to prove that Josh was innocent result in her own life being placed in danger?
The chapters that were set in the past were set before,during and after the events at the lake and gave the reader a insight into Josh and Gareth's unhappy homelives. Both of the boy's lives were affected in different ways by mental illness and by the way that they were treated by the people who they should have been able to rely on. I felt a lot of empathy for younger Josh who hardly app to get any respite from his tormentor and his life just got worse after the tragic events that took place at the lake. I also felt a lot of empathy for Gareth's mentally tormented mother. But what had happened at the lake? Who was involved and knew the truth? How were events from the past connected to what was happening in the present day?
Into The Lake is a extremely well written,addictive thriller that hooks the reader in from the first page, keeps you guessing and glued to your kindle as the story unfolds before your captivated eyes. The plot covers some hard hitting and relatable issues that the author has written about with care and sensitivity. The cast of characters were vivid and realistic and there was numerous occasions throughout the book when I doubted the reliability and trustworthiness of some of their versions of events. This is the first book that I have read that was written by this author and it most definitely will not be my last. Very very highly recommended.
January 3, 2022
This was my first read by L.K. Chapman and I really enjoyed this style of writing. The description didn't sound like anything overly unique, but I went in with a clear mind and immediately got into this. I will say the beginning was a bit slow but it very quickly ramped up in drama and intrigue. I really liked all of the characters and found them all interesting in their own ways with heavy topics to cover. This was a pretty tense thriller and I found myself gritting my teeth at the intense parts. There is quite a bit of suspense as well. I found this to be very well rounded and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to more from this author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this advanced copy of the audiobook by LK Chapman and narrated by Peter Noble.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this advanced copy of the audiobook by LK Chapman and narrated by Peter Noble.
October 6, 2021
Well this turned dark! If you hadn’t read the blurb you’d think it was just another mystery romance, with sad goings on in the past.
Natalie was a model with a promising career. Then she had a car accident that left her physically and mentally scarred.
She is invited to a school reunion and reluctantly goes. She meets Josh who she barely remembers from school, but they are instantly attracted. They soon fall in love and move in together, planning to get married.
Natalie works with her sister-in-law as a wedding planner and life appears to be happy. She also has her own Vlog where she posts lifestyle stuff and photos of fashion. She never shies away from talking about her scars. Then one day it all goes horribly wrong. She receives the message: you can do better than marrying a murderer. And the messages get worse and more scathing, not just about Josh but about her scars and her appearance. Someone really has it in for her.
When Josh was in his teens, he was party to a tragic event when a young girl drowned at Chedford Lake and he was a suspect. Together with a difficult childhood – his mum and dad divorced and his mum re-married. Josh has to share a room with his step-brother Toby who bullies him relentlessly and also happens to be in a relationship with the girl who drowned.
So far so good. Natalie is determined to discover the truth, but then things start to get much darker until by the final few chapters, secrets are revealed that I never would have guessed. And there are people involved that you would never have suspected.
I loved Natalie. She is a very strong character who stays together through whatever life throws at her. Not so sure about Josh. Sometimes he was exasperating and I wanted to shake him. You wouldn’t want him to be your only friend in a crisis. I would just like to say that I am not sure that the way his mental illness is portrayed actually invites our sympathy, which is a shame. Reading other people’s reviews, they found him whiny and spineless, which in today’s world is a sad indictment of our attitude to mental health. I think he needed a more sympathetic touch. But Natalie loves him. The other characters, particularly Toby and Gareth were well-drawn and full of character.
What started off as a relatively slow burn exploded at the end and I loved the twists and surprises.
Many thanks to @annecater for inviting me to be part of #RandomThingsTours.
Natalie was a model with a promising career. Then she had a car accident that left her physically and mentally scarred.
She is invited to a school reunion and reluctantly goes. She meets Josh who she barely remembers from school, but they are instantly attracted. They soon fall in love and move in together, planning to get married.
Natalie works with her sister-in-law as a wedding planner and life appears to be happy. She also has her own Vlog where she posts lifestyle stuff and photos of fashion. She never shies away from talking about her scars. Then one day it all goes horribly wrong. She receives the message: you can do better than marrying a murderer. And the messages get worse and more scathing, not just about Josh but about her scars and her appearance. Someone really has it in for her.
When Josh was in his teens, he was party to a tragic event when a young girl drowned at Chedford Lake and he was a suspect. Together with a difficult childhood – his mum and dad divorced and his mum re-married. Josh has to share a room with his step-brother Toby who bullies him relentlessly and also happens to be in a relationship with the girl who drowned.
So far so good. Natalie is determined to discover the truth, but then things start to get much darker until by the final few chapters, secrets are revealed that I never would have guessed. And there are people involved that you would never have suspected.
I loved Natalie. She is a very strong character who stays together through whatever life throws at her. Not so sure about Josh. Sometimes he was exasperating and I wanted to shake him. You wouldn’t want him to be your only friend in a crisis. I would just like to say that I am not sure that the way his mental illness is portrayed actually invites our sympathy, which is a shame. Reading other people’s reviews, they found him whiny and spineless, which in today’s world is a sad indictment of our attitude to mental health. I think he needed a more sympathetic touch. But Natalie loves him. The other characters, particularly Toby and Gareth were well-drawn and full of character.
What started off as a relatively slow burn exploded at the end and I loved the twists and surprises.
Many thanks to @annecater for inviting me to be part of #RandomThingsTours.
August 30, 2021
I listened to the audio of, Into the Lake, by L.K. Chapman and narrated by Peter Noble. Peter did an excellent job narrating a well-written story.
I enjoyed the book immensely. It had all the components of a great story, mystery, love, betrayal, and murder.
The story is of Josh and Natalie who went to school together years ago and meet up again at a class reunion.
As a boy, Josh experienced the pain of bullying and a feeling of rejection even from his family.
When still in school the girl of his teenage dreams drowned and even with his best efforts he couldn't save her. All of this created desperation so deep he attempted suicide
At the class reunion Josh connects with Natalie, he hardly knew her back in school but they hit it off very well that night. They started dating and it progressed quickly into a romance.
Natalie was being brave going to the class reunion. Brave because of her scars, an accident that almost killed her left her with facial scars that were pretty evident. She decided it was time to get on with her life. Even if she would get a lot of questions about her scars.
Meeting up with Josh was a dream come true. Their attraction grew fast. Both finding someone to love and be loved back completely.
The only problem was after her marriage announcement there were horrible comments against Josh being posted on her blog. Accusing him of murder! There were also awful comments about her scars, saying she would be an ugly bride.
Josh with his history of depression reverts to self-blame for all of the cruel things being posted to Natalie's blog. He started to wonder, could he have murdered that girl? Did he remember wrong?.
Natalie decides she must find out what transpired. Did someone kill that girl so many years ago or did she drown by accident? That decision may have a danger she didn't anticipate.
I recommend this book. It keeps your interest, has a good storyline With twists you won't see coming. Best of all it portrays dedicated love. This story also brings insight into the effects of how childhood traumatic incidents can shape a person. Thank you NetGalley, Dreamscape Media for allowing me the audio version of this book. Also, the author Peter Noble is the first book of yours I’ve read and I will read more. This is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed the book immensely. It had all the components of a great story, mystery, love, betrayal, and murder.
The story is of Josh and Natalie who went to school together years ago and meet up again at a class reunion.
As a boy, Josh experienced the pain of bullying and a feeling of rejection even from his family.
When still in school the girl of his teenage dreams drowned and even with his best efforts he couldn't save her. All of this created desperation so deep he attempted suicide
At the class reunion Josh connects with Natalie, he hardly knew her back in school but they hit it off very well that night. They started dating and it progressed quickly into a romance.
Natalie was being brave going to the class reunion. Brave because of her scars, an accident that almost killed her left her with facial scars that were pretty evident. She decided it was time to get on with her life. Even if she would get a lot of questions about her scars.
Meeting up with Josh was a dream come true. Their attraction grew fast. Both finding someone to love and be loved back completely.
The only problem was after her marriage announcement there were horrible comments against Josh being posted on her blog. Accusing him of murder! There were also awful comments about her scars, saying she would be an ugly bride.
Josh with his history of depression reverts to self-blame for all of the cruel things being posted to Natalie's blog. He started to wonder, could he have murdered that girl? Did he remember wrong?.
Natalie decides she must find out what transpired. Did someone kill that girl so many years ago or did she drown by accident? That decision may have a danger she didn't anticipate.
I recommend this book. It keeps your interest, has a good storyline With twists you won't see coming. Best of all it portrays dedicated love. This story also brings insight into the effects of how childhood traumatic incidents can shape a person. Thank you NetGalley, Dreamscape Media for allowing me the audio version of this book. Also, the author Peter Noble is the first book of yours I’ve read and I will read more. This is my honest opinion.
October 7, 2021
Into The Lake by L.K.Chapman is a well paced, twisty psychological thriller. L.K Chapman is a new author for me, so I had no expectations as I began reading this story.
Natalie really doesn't want to attend a school reunion and meet up with friends she knew before she had an accident that altered her appearance. Her sister-in-law encourages her to go, so she does. Whole there she finds she is enjoying herself more than she anticipated. She connects with Josh and they start dating. As the story develops we see Natalie and Josh getting closer and their relationship blooms...until the day Natalie begins to receive messages telling her that Josh is a murderer and to ask him about Mikayla and the lake from years ago. As the abusive messages keep on coming and shocking secrets are exposed, Natalie has to put herself in the path of a killer to get to the truth. Can she discover what really happened, or is it her turn next?
Such a well written book with characters who are so realistically developed. They both have a background of troubled family lives and I could really feel the tension building throughout the story and added to by the characters who all play their own part in this suspenseful story.
We are taken back to the past with some chapters to show us what happened then and allow us to build a picture up to the present day. What we do discover is everyone is keeping secrets and telling lies and it makes for some questionable characters...who can we really trust, anyone or noone? I was second guessing everyone's motives as I read this book, the mystery and suspense really cranked up so I couldn't leave this book alone until I had finished it.
I must mention the themes that are brought to the story, such as bullying and suicide. They are not used gratuitously and are dealt with sensitively too.
A thriller that I would recommend that's for sure.
Thanks to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours and L.K Chapman for the gifted copy of the book.
Natalie really doesn't want to attend a school reunion and meet up with friends she knew before she had an accident that altered her appearance. Her sister-in-law encourages her to go, so she does. Whole there she finds she is enjoying herself more than she anticipated. She connects with Josh and they start dating. As the story develops we see Natalie and Josh getting closer and their relationship blooms...until the day Natalie begins to receive messages telling her that Josh is a murderer and to ask him about Mikayla and the lake from years ago. As the abusive messages keep on coming and shocking secrets are exposed, Natalie has to put herself in the path of a killer to get to the truth. Can she discover what really happened, or is it her turn next?
Such a well written book with characters who are so realistically developed. They both have a background of troubled family lives and I could really feel the tension building throughout the story and added to by the characters who all play their own part in this suspenseful story.
We are taken back to the past with some chapters to show us what happened then and allow us to build a picture up to the present day. What we do discover is everyone is keeping secrets and telling lies and it makes for some questionable characters...who can we really trust, anyone or noone? I was second guessing everyone's motives as I read this book, the mystery and suspense really cranked up so I couldn't leave this book alone until I had finished it.
I must mention the themes that are brought to the story, such as bullying and suicide. They are not used gratuitously and are dealt with sensitively too.
A thriller that I would recommend that's for sure.
Thanks to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours and L.K Chapman for the gifted copy of the book.
September 11, 2021
Into The Lake
L.K. Chapman
Natalie was a model until she was in an automobile accident that left her with facial scars. She gave up modeling and began working with her sister-in-law doing wedding planning and writes a Vlog. She hesitated to go to her class reunion because she is self-conscious of her scars. She and Josh become re-acquainted at the reunion. While they attended school together, they didn’t really know each other. They were drawn to each other and became inseparable. After only a few weeks of dating Josh popped the question, “will you marry me?”. Natalie didn’t hesitate to say, “yes.”
Someone started sending vile messages to her Vlog. They begin by accusing Josh of murder then they begin to attack Natalie. Many years ago, Josh was with a teenage girl that drowned. The water was icy cold, although he tried to save her, he could not. There were speculations that he murdered her. Natalie is determined to find the truth behind the girl’s death. She places herself in harm’s way to clear Josh’s name.
Natalie is a strong lead character; you can’t help but like her. Josh is a weak character. . Josh is very depressed and begins to doubt himself. Could he have murdered the girl? There are several interesting secondary characters in this tale. Josh’s stepbrother, Toby, is a terrible bully. Toward the end of the book, we discover why he is such a bully. But even bullies have redeeming qualities. Garth is Josh’s best friend; he appears to be very protective of Josh. The characters have complex personalities. The plot is intricate with twist and turns woven throughout. This is a thriller you don’t want to miss.
L.K. Chapman
Natalie was a model until she was in an automobile accident that left her with facial scars. She gave up modeling and began working with her sister-in-law doing wedding planning and writes a Vlog. She hesitated to go to her class reunion because she is self-conscious of her scars. She and Josh become re-acquainted at the reunion. While they attended school together, they didn’t really know each other. They were drawn to each other and became inseparable. After only a few weeks of dating Josh popped the question, “will you marry me?”. Natalie didn’t hesitate to say, “yes.”
Someone started sending vile messages to her Vlog. They begin by accusing Josh of murder then they begin to attack Natalie. Many years ago, Josh was with a teenage girl that drowned. The water was icy cold, although he tried to save her, he could not. There were speculations that he murdered her. Natalie is determined to find the truth behind the girl’s death. She places herself in harm’s way to clear Josh’s name.
Natalie is a strong lead character; you can’t help but like her. Josh is a weak character. . Josh is very depressed and begins to doubt himself. Could he have murdered the girl? There are several interesting secondary characters in this tale. Josh’s stepbrother, Toby, is a terrible bully. Toward the end of the book, we discover why he is such a bully. But even bullies have redeeming qualities. Garth is Josh’s best friend; he appears to be very protective of Josh. The characters have complex personalities. The plot is intricate with twist and turns woven throughout. This is a thriller you don’t want to miss.
June 27, 2021
Loved this book, and raced through it. The characters are believable, and for the most part likeable, the story is well plotted and the actions keeps on going.
Natalie is reluctant to go to a school reunion and meet up with friends she had before an accident changed her appearance. Encouraged by her sister in law she attends and to her surprise enjoys herself. She hits it off with Josh and they begin dating. Fast forward and the relationship is blossoming, with Gareth, Josh's best friend from school pleased his somewhat melancholy friend has found happiness. But the happiness does not appear to be lasting. Natalie is being sent abusive messages about her appearance, and worrying messages hinting that Josh's past is not as clean as he had led her to believe.
Will Natalie believe the rumors about Josh, will she be able to forgive Toby, Josh's stepbrother for the bullying he suffered when they were children, should she listen to her brother and sister in law, Rob and Verity and will Gareth always be there for Josh? All is revealed along the way.
Natalie is reluctant to go to a school reunion and meet up with friends she had before an accident changed her appearance. Encouraged by her sister in law she attends and to her surprise enjoys herself. She hits it off with Josh and they begin dating. Fast forward and the relationship is blossoming, with Gareth, Josh's best friend from school pleased his somewhat melancholy friend has found happiness. But the happiness does not appear to be lasting. Natalie is being sent abusive messages about her appearance, and worrying messages hinting that Josh's past is not as clean as he had led her to believe.
Will Natalie believe the rumors about Josh, will she be able to forgive Toby, Josh's stepbrother for the bullying he suffered when they were children, should she listen to her brother and sister in law, Rob and Verity and will Gareth always be there for Josh? All is revealed along the way.
September 27, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
From the start of this book, the characters and storyline drew me in. It was a fast paced book with a good balance of background and current events. I will say that some of the twists I did see coming, including the final twist, however I did not imagine it to be as extreme as it ended up being.
Definitely recommend - also, wonderful narration to enjoy if you are a book listener!
From the start of this book, the characters and storyline drew me in. It was a fast paced book with a good balance of background and current events. I will say that some of the twists I did see coming, including the final twist, however I did not imagine it to be as extreme as it ended up being.
Definitely recommend - also, wonderful narration to enjoy if you are a book listener!
October 21, 2021
This book is a fast paced, gripping thriller that I absolutely could not put down!
After finishing this I absolutely can’t wait to dig in to Chapmans other books! I love that their other books are listed at the end of this book, along with trigger warnings and helpline numbers!
Into the Lake follows the story of Natalie, reunited with old school friend Josh, they quickly develop feelings for each other - but Josh’s past soon comes creeping in on their relationship when Natalie starts receiving unexplained threats and messages, all relating to Mikaela, and the weekend at the Lake from many years ago.
Once Natalie finds out what happened, or what she believes to have happened, she soon decides she’s determined to get to the bottom of this mystery and find out who’s trying to drag up old news trying to break her apart from Josh - no matter what it takes.
This is a real case of keep your friends close, and your enemies closer!
I loved this book, the twists and turns were amazing and I absolutely did not expect the ending!!! If I could give it more stars I would ⭐️
After finishing this I absolutely can’t wait to dig in to Chapmans other books! I love that their other books are listed at the end of this book, along with trigger warnings and helpline numbers!
Into the Lake follows the story of Natalie, reunited with old school friend Josh, they quickly develop feelings for each other - but Josh’s past soon comes creeping in on their relationship when Natalie starts receiving unexplained threats and messages, all relating to Mikaela, and the weekend at the Lake from many years ago.
Once Natalie finds out what happened, or what she believes to have happened, she soon decides she’s determined to get to the bottom of this mystery and find out who’s trying to drag up old news trying to break her apart from Josh - no matter what it takes.
This is a real case of keep your friends close, and your enemies closer!
I loved this book, the twists and turns were amazing and I absolutely did not expect the ending!!! If I could give it more stars I would ⭐️
October 6, 2021
Now that was a page Turner. I had been looking forward to reading this, and I enjoyed the read. I found myself liking Josh and in the most part, Natalie. There were other characters I couldn’t warm to and just felt ambivalent toward them. But sometimes you need people you don’t really like in a book, to highlight how likeable other characters are.
There were twists and turns aplenty leading towards the big one, which really caught me by surprise. I can’t go into why, without ruining your enjoyment of this book. I felt the general pace of the book quicken from around the half way point, and in the end, I couldn’t turn the pages (swipe the Kindle screen to the left) fast enough.
The book, for me, had a satisfying ending, and I’m glad to have read it, so I’ll be buying more from this author in the future. I’m happy to recommend this book to readers of psychological thrillers and mysteries. I gave 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘢𝘬𝘦, by L. K. Chapman four stars.
There were twists and turns aplenty leading towards the big one, which really caught me by surprise. I can’t go into why, without ruining your enjoyment of this book. I felt the general pace of the book quicken from around the half way point, and in the end, I couldn’t turn the pages (swipe the Kindle screen to the left) fast enough.
The book, for me, had a satisfying ending, and I’m glad to have read it, so I’ll be buying more from this author in the future. I’m happy to recommend this book to readers of psychological thrillers and mysteries. I gave 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘢𝘬𝘦, by L. K. Chapman four stars.
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