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The Discarded
Ellis Neill wakes up next to his family one morning, just as he had done for the last ten years, unaware that it would be his last taste of freedom.
His life soon spirals out of control and he is cast into a remote prison in the Arctic wilderness where nothing is as it seems, the inmates rule and a sinister figure wants him and his family dead.
Resulting from carefully laid plans he is plunged into a fight for survival, sanity and saving those he loves.
'A masterpiece of a story with thrills and twists!' - Laura, reviewer
His life soon spirals out of control and he is cast into a remote prison in the Arctic wilderness where nothing is as it seems, the inmates rule and a sinister figure wants him and his family dead.
Resulting from carefully laid plans he is plunged into a fight for survival, sanity and saving those he loves.
'A masterpiece of a story with thrills and twists!' - Laura, reviewer
279 pages, Paperback
First published November 28, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 19, 2022
Special thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
“The Discarded” is the debut crime thriller by South African author, Louis van Schalkwyk and it is one heck of a frozen, wild ride!
Ellis Neill has spent every day since returning home from the war in the company of his wife and daughter, trying to rebuild his life again. One day, while working at an auto garage, Ellis is arrested, charged with the brutal death of a judge and his wife. Quickly found guilty, Ellis is shipped to a remote jail in Northern Canada, and no one, including his lawyer or his wife, know where he ended up. Ellis knows he’s innocent and he’s bound and determined to return to his wife and daughter, even if that means breaking out of prison and trekking across the frozen tundra. But it is not only the prison system and police that are out looking for him- everyone in Ellis’ family is in danger and it is up to Ellis to decide who to trust, and how to save them all.
“The Discarded” takes place almost entirely in Canada, and I always love seeing my home country represented. The author himself is South African, living in Hong Kong, but it is clear that he has, at some point, spent quite a bit of time in the Great White North, as his details of places and locations are accurate.
The story is told from the perspective of many of the main characters, including Ellis, his daughter, his wife, the police officer who aids in finding Ellis, the drunk warden, and a few other ne’er-do-well’s and dangerous criminals. It is not, however, difficult to determine who is doing the narrating as van Schalkwyk clearly marks his breaks and chapters, making it easy to switch between narrating characters.
This story was non-stop action right from page one. “The Discarded” was a high-intensity thrill ride, full of corrupt police, Mob criminality, and a broken soldier paying the price for something he did many years ago. “The Discarded” was well-researched and had good flow, and van Schalkwyk’s characters were also well-developed. Although I struggled in a few places with believability (again, I wonder if Schalkwyk has ever been to the Northwest Territories. You don’t just fall into a frozen lake and then get out and walk kilometres away and survive—in DECEMBER) but I enjoyed the story all the same!
“The Discarded” is the debut crime thriller by South African author, Louis van Schalkwyk and it is one heck of a frozen, wild ride!
Ellis Neill has spent every day since returning home from the war in the company of his wife and daughter, trying to rebuild his life again. One day, while working at an auto garage, Ellis is arrested, charged with the brutal death of a judge and his wife. Quickly found guilty, Ellis is shipped to a remote jail in Northern Canada, and no one, including his lawyer or his wife, know where he ended up. Ellis knows he’s innocent and he’s bound and determined to return to his wife and daughter, even if that means breaking out of prison and trekking across the frozen tundra. But it is not only the prison system and police that are out looking for him- everyone in Ellis’ family is in danger and it is up to Ellis to decide who to trust, and how to save them all.
“The Discarded” takes place almost entirely in Canada, and I always love seeing my home country represented. The author himself is South African, living in Hong Kong, but it is clear that he has, at some point, spent quite a bit of time in the Great White North, as his details of places and locations are accurate.
The story is told from the perspective of many of the main characters, including Ellis, his daughter, his wife, the police officer who aids in finding Ellis, the drunk warden, and a few other ne’er-do-well’s and dangerous criminals. It is not, however, difficult to determine who is doing the narrating as van Schalkwyk clearly marks his breaks and chapters, making it easy to switch between narrating characters.
This story was non-stop action right from page one. “The Discarded” was a high-intensity thrill ride, full of corrupt police, Mob criminality, and a broken soldier paying the price for something he did many years ago. “The Discarded” was well-researched and had good flow, and van Schalkwyk’s characters were also well-developed. Although I struggled in a few places with believability (again, I wonder if Schalkwyk has ever been to the Northwest Territories. You don’t just fall into a frozen lake and then get out and walk kilometres away and survive—in DECEMBER) but I enjoyed the story all the same!
July 6, 2022
The Discarded by Louis Van Schalkwyk
Ellis Neill wakes up next to his family one morning, just as he had done for the last ten years, unaware that it would be his last taste of freedom.
His life soon spirals out of control, and he is cast into a remote prison in the Arctic wilderness where nothing is as it seems; the inmates' rule and a sinister figure want him and his family dead.
Resulting from carefully laid plans, he is plunged into a fight for survival, sanity and saving those he loves.
Wow-what a brilliant, memorable debut novel, Louis certainly knows how to keep your attention. The Discarded is an action-packed, quick-paced, well-crafted thriller that leaves nothing to chance. The characters are well-drawn and believable. With plenty of chilling twists and turns, this story encompasses you from page one.
I will undoubtedly be on the lookout for further works by this talented new author.
Thanks to Kingsley Publishers, author Louis Van Schalkwyk and Rachel's Random Resources for the tour invite.
Ellis Neill wakes up next to his family one morning, just as he had done for the last ten years, unaware that it would be his last taste of freedom.
His life soon spirals out of control, and he is cast into a remote prison in the Arctic wilderness where nothing is as it seems; the inmates' rule and a sinister figure want him and his family dead.
Resulting from carefully laid plans, he is plunged into a fight for survival, sanity and saving those he loves.
Wow-what a brilliant, memorable debut novel, Louis certainly knows how to keep your attention. The Discarded is an action-packed, quick-paced, well-crafted thriller that leaves nothing to chance. The characters are well-drawn and believable. With plenty of chilling twists and turns, this story encompasses you from page one.
I will undoubtedly be on the lookout for further works by this talented new author.
Thanks to Kingsley Publishers, author Louis Van Schalkwyk and Rachel's Random Resources for the tour invite.
July 1, 2022
There was so much tension in this jailhouse Thriller that my jaw hurts a little bit now that I’m done reading it!
I guess that a good sign that the writing is on pace for an edge of your seat Thriller.
Lots of questions at the beginning of what was happening and why. Information is slowly given to the reader as more and more events take place that don’t seem to add up. The author does a nice job of carrying the suspense for quiet awhile to keep the reader interested in turning the page without getting frustrated that they have no idea what’s going on.
My first read for this author. I hope to read more in the future.
Thank you to #RachelsRandomReapurces for having me on the this #booktour!
I guess that a good sign that the writing is on pace for an edge of your seat Thriller.
Lots of questions at the beginning of what was happening and why. Information is slowly given to the reader as more and more events take place that don’t seem to add up. The author does a nice job of carrying the suspense for quiet awhile to keep the reader interested in turning the page without getting frustrated that they have no idea what’s going on.
My first read for this author. I hope to read more in the future.
Thank you to #RachelsRandomReapurces for having me on the this #booktour!
February 6, 2022
I want to say so many things about this book but everything I want to say will give away too much!
The details made me feel like I was in Ellis’s shoes
Such a page turner and I honestly enjoyed that each time I thought I had it figured out there was a twist.
It would be an amazing thriller movie
I highly recommend you read this book if you like
Suspense, thrillers, murder, mystery and edge of your seat books this is the one!!!!
I know it will be one of my top reads of the year!
The details made me feel like I was in Ellis’s shoes
Such a page turner and I honestly enjoyed that each time I thought I had it figured out there was a twist.
It would be an amazing thriller movie
I highly recommend you read this book if you like
Suspense, thrillers, murder, mystery and edge of your seat books this is the one!!!!
I know it will be one of my top reads of the year!
January 20, 2022
This one was gripping from start to finish. I went into it thinking one thing and was completely taken in another direction. It is fast-paced, twisty, and action-packed. This is a perfect novel for readers who enjoy the works of James Patterson, Lee Child, and Harlan Coben. Honestly, this would make for a wonderful movie! I truly enjoyed it and cannot believe how quickly I got through it.
Ellis Neill has left behind his lucrative career to focus more on his family. The new job isn't as exciting but it is easy enough. But when the SWAT team comes busting into his work to take him away, he is sure they have the wrong guy. As strange as everything is, he is at least hopeful things will get cleared up. But as he is whisked away to the Arctic wilderness his freedom may not be the only thing he is saying goodbye to...
*there are some graphic scenes in this that may be hard for some readers*
Ellis Neill has left behind his lucrative career to focus more on his family. The new job isn't as exciting but it is easy enough. But when the SWAT team comes busting into his work to take him away, he is sure they have the wrong guy. As strange as everything is, he is at least hopeful things will get cleared up. But as he is whisked away to the Arctic wilderness his freedom may not be the only thing he is saying goodbye to...
*there are some graphic scenes in this that may be hard for some readers*
July 1, 2022
I believe this was a debut novel and if that is the case then congratulations. This was a fast paced and exciting thriller from start to finish. But beware, whilst I enjoyed the book the levels of gratuitous violence was at times difficult to stomach. That aside this was well written with an original plot line and some great characters.
Briefly, Ellis Neill is ex Army, discharged following a fatal incident within his unit and now living in Toronto with his wife Cynthia and daughter Rose, working as a mechanic in a repair shop. One morning he goes to work to find a SWAT team waiting for him and he is arrested for the brutal murder of a judge and his wife. Within a very short period and despite his protestations of innocence he is convicted and sentenced to life without parole and sent to a remote prison in the Arctic. From this point on, as his family are fighting to prove his innocence, the violence both within the prison walls and outside sees the body count rise.
Quite a few shocking twists and turns and an ending that I never expected. It was a compelling read despite some of the graphic content. One to watch ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Briefly, Ellis Neill is ex Army, discharged following a fatal incident within his unit and now living in Toronto with his wife Cynthia and daughter Rose, working as a mechanic in a repair shop. One morning he goes to work to find a SWAT team waiting for him and he is arrested for the brutal murder of a judge and his wife. Within a very short period and despite his protestations of innocence he is convicted and sentenced to life without parole and sent to a remote prison in the Arctic. From this point on, as his family are fighting to prove his innocence, the violence both within the prison walls and outside sees the body count rise.
Quite a few shocking twists and turns and an ending that I never expected. It was a compelling read despite some of the graphic content. One to watch ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 3, 2022
I don't normally think of myself as fickle. I know what I like. Which is why, whenever I walk into a bookshop, I'll head straight for the crime fiction. If I order a meal in my local pub, I'll inevitably be drawn to their home-made lasagne. And for a drink afterwards, nothing beats a pint of real ale. There's basically no way that I'd change my mind on this and suddenly decide that I'd prefer a cocktail. (Unless, perhaps, I was very, very drunk already.)
Which is why, after finishing 'The Discarded', I was left feeling puzzled. Because in many ways it reminded me of 'I'll Find You' by Dan Clark, which I read recently and was one of the few reviewers to criticise. Most others seemed to love it, but I personally found parts of the storyline to be rather too far-fetched and the violent scenes to be rather too overdone.
Both of these are criticisms that I could reasonably also make of 'The Discarded'. It begins with the violent murder of a judge and his wife, for which a man is quickly and dramatically arrested, found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. His protestations that he has never even met the couple he is supposed to have killed go unheard.
Further discussion of the plot will inevitably result in spoilers, so I'll say only that I lost count of the number of violent deaths, and extremely lucky escapes from death that followed. In particular, the way that a man is able to avoid hypothermia after being submerged in an Alaskan river, in December, is little short of ridiculous. And yet, here's the thing. I really didn't mind.
I've given some thought as to why, and I think it's because 'The Discarded' makes no attempt to be psychological fiction. Its selling point is pure entertainment. It's an unapologetic, fast-paced action thriller. And because this is something that becomes apparent very early on, it didn't bother me that I wasn't transported into the main character's head, sharing his emotions and fearing for his life. I was happy just to go along for the ride. Do that and the rewards are some dramatic moments, and one very poignant scene, before the book reaches a satisfying if not particularly surprising ending. It's not a book that left me deep in thought, but it is one that left me smiling.
It's a bit like being on a roller coaster. It's not really frightening, because ultimately you know you're going to get off safely at the end. But that's fine, because you don't really go on the ride to be scared. You do it to enjoy the drama. And if it works for you as it should, you'll walk away with a big grin on your face and wondering when you can next spare the time to visit another theme park.
My thanks to Kingsley Publishers for the digital copy of this book, which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly. I will post my review on Goodreads and Amazon.
Which is why, after finishing 'The Discarded', I was left feeling puzzled. Because in many ways it reminded me of 'I'll Find You' by Dan Clark, which I read recently and was one of the few reviewers to criticise. Most others seemed to love it, but I personally found parts of the storyline to be rather too far-fetched and the violent scenes to be rather too overdone.
Both of these are criticisms that I could reasonably also make of 'The Discarded'. It begins with the violent murder of a judge and his wife, for which a man is quickly and dramatically arrested, found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. His protestations that he has never even met the couple he is supposed to have killed go unheard.
Further discussion of the plot will inevitably result in spoilers, so I'll say only that I lost count of the number of violent deaths, and extremely lucky escapes from death that followed. In particular, the way that a man is able to avoid hypothermia after being submerged in an Alaskan river, in December, is little short of ridiculous. And yet, here's the thing. I really didn't mind.
I've given some thought as to why, and I think it's because 'The Discarded' makes no attempt to be psychological fiction. Its selling point is pure entertainment. It's an unapologetic, fast-paced action thriller. And because this is something that becomes apparent very early on, it didn't bother me that I wasn't transported into the main character's head, sharing his emotions and fearing for his life. I was happy just to go along for the ride. Do that and the rewards are some dramatic moments, and one very poignant scene, before the book reaches a satisfying if not particularly surprising ending. It's not a book that left me deep in thought, but it is one that left me smiling.
It's a bit like being on a roller coaster. It's not really frightening, because ultimately you know you're going to get off safely at the end. But that's fine, because you don't really go on the ride to be scared. You do it to enjoy the drama. And if it works for you as it should, you'll walk away with a big grin on your face and wondering when you can next spare the time to visit another theme park.
My thanks to Kingsley Publishers for the digital copy of this book, which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly. I will post my review on Goodreads and Amazon.
May 6, 2022
This novel was gifted to me by Kingsley Publishing. Thank you for providing me a book I would not have potentially picked up otherwise and really enjoyed reading.
Ellis Neill’s life spirals out of control as he is arrest for a murder he did not commit. Trying to prove his innocence proves futile and his families life is thrown into disarray. Fighting to survive, can he figure out what is going on and what secrets are being covered up?
This book has a great premise, but quite a slow build. I found it difficult to get through the first few chapters at it does chop and change between events and move very quickly. I found this type of story writing very confusing to start with. About halfway through I started piecing it all together and it made more and more sense, as well as slowly being given information about key characters. It had a lot of twists and turns through the story and a lot of unexpected characters.
While I found I did struggle to read the first few chapters, I binge read the second half so fast, I just had to know what was going on. Van Schalkwyk had spent so much time building this world up and it really paid off in the second half of the book.
If you are looking for something with suspense, fast paced action and drama, I would highly recommend this read. I don't want to give away much more as it was a good read going in with very little knowledge of what to expect.
Ellis Neill’s life spirals out of control as he is arrest for a murder he did not commit. Trying to prove his innocence proves futile and his families life is thrown into disarray. Fighting to survive, can he figure out what is going on and what secrets are being covered up?
This book has a great premise, but quite a slow build. I found it difficult to get through the first few chapters at it does chop and change between events and move very quickly. I found this type of story writing very confusing to start with. About halfway through I started piecing it all together and it made more and more sense, as well as slowly being given information about key characters. It had a lot of twists and turns through the story and a lot of unexpected characters.
While I found I did struggle to read the first few chapters, I binge read the second half so fast, I just had to know what was going on. Van Schalkwyk had spent so much time building this world up and it really paid off in the second half of the book.
If you are looking for something with suspense, fast paced action and drama, I would highly recommend this read. I don't want to give away much more as it was a good read going in with very little knowledge of what to expect.
April 24, 2022
I was approached directly by the publisher to see if I wanted to review this book, and i am so glad they did as I havnt seen this anywhere or heard anyone talk about it, and it's a fantastic book - thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.
Very fast paced, with corrupt coppers here there and everwhere.
Would definitely recommend - will be looking out for more stories from this author.
Very fast paced, with corrupt coppers here there and everwhere.
Would definitely recommend - will be looking out for more stories from this author.
July 1, 2022
A twisty plot
I really like this author and I hope that he has some more books coming out, very suspenseful and I loved the ending.
I really like this author and I hope that he has some more books coming out, very suspenseful and I loved the ending.
June 22, 2022
When I was offered a chance to read this book, after reading the blurb, I jumped onto the chance.
This is the authors debut book, and I look forward to reading more from him. The book was fast paced and kept me gripped the start to end...there were a few twists that I didn't expect
Highly recommended!
This is the authors debut book, and I look forward to reading more from him. The book was fast paced and kept me gripped the start to end...there were a few twists that I didn't expect
Highly recommended!
July 2, 2022
Wow!! What a debut for Louis Van Schalkwyk! This story is non stop from the minute you pick it up to the 3am finish where I couldn’t put it down!! A Seriously good Thriller with a bit for everyone, mobs, you got it, police corruption, PLENTY and a fast paced story line with all the twists and turns you’d expect from a Thriller like this!
I love the way the author effortlessly switches between the main characters points of views without detracting from the story at all! Multiple perspectives is a hard ask on readers sometimes and an even harder task for an author to do well but this book nails it!
Having never been to Canada I can only say from my own perspective that this book feels well researched and developed; Louis Van Schalkwyk is definitely an author to watch and I for one will be following closely!!
We received a copy of this book free of charge in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own
I love the way the author effortlessly switches between the main characters points of views without detracting from the story at all! Multiple perspectives is a hard ask on readers sometimes and an even harder task for an author to do well but this book nails it!
Having never been to Canada I can only say from my own perspective that this book feels well researched and developed; Louis Van Schalkwyk is definitely an author to watch and I for one will be following closely!!
We received a copy of this book free of charge in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own
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April 24, 2022This has made me want to read more books with a prison theme! I enjoyed the fast pace and how this really highlighted the idea that some of these bad peeps can really infiltrate EVERYTHING, which is a scary thought. I loved the ending also with that final phone call. I'm not sure whether it broke or healed my heart a bit. Maybe a bit of both
June 11, 2022
The publishing company, Kingsley Publishers, offered this book to me for an honest review.
Trigger warning on violence and a bit graphic.
This book is full of twists and turns making it hard to put down, I read it in a day!
Ellis Neill had a job that kept him away and he decided to leave that lifestyle so he could be home more and spend more time with his family. With that, life still isn't perfect, but being with his wife, Cathy, and his daughter, Rose, more they are all happier. That is until a SWAT Team shows up at his current job and takes him away!
He's put in jail, taken to court and put on trial, taken to prison, then transferred to an Artic prison where one cannot escape let alone live in doing so...
This all happened so fast with no explanation or answers to his family or lawyer. And while Ellis is sitting there dumbfounded over the whole thing, Cathy and his lawyer are determined to get the answers they need.
What prevented it from being a 5 star was a few unrealistic situations in there, but other than that I really like the book!, and very glad I was reached to for a read and honest review.
Trigger warning on violence and a bit graphic.
This book is full of twists and turns making it hard to put down, I read it in a day!
Ellis Neill had a job that kept him away and he decided to leave that lifestyle so he could be home more and spend more time with his family. With that, life still isn't perfect, but being with his wife, Cathy, and his daughter, Rose, more they are all happier. That is until a SWAT Team shows up at his current job and takes him away!
He's put in jail, taken to court and put on trial, taken to prison, then transferred to an Artic prison where one cannot escape let alone live in doing so...
This all happened so fast with no explanation or answers to his family or lawyer. And while Ellis is sitting there dumbfounded over the whole thing, Cathy and his lawyer are determined to get the answers they need.
What prevented it from being a 5 star was a few unrealistic situations in there, but other than that I really like the book!, and very glad I was reached to for a read and honest review.
February 17, 2022
I would like to start out by saying a huge thank you to Author Louis van Schalkwyk for taking the time to reach out and gift me his book. To say I enjoyed The Discarded is an understatement. Author Louis takes you on a journey with this story about a father who is arrested for a crime he didn’t commit. This is a fast paced book and the deeper you get into the story the more twists, turns and surprises you will find. There were many moments where I can honestly say ‘I did not see that coming’. You will not be left disappointed in the end. You’ll only be left wondering when Louis will write another book and how long until we see it. I gave this book 5 stars.
January 11, 2022
Within the first few chapters I got the feeling that this is a book that everyone is going to be talking about in the coming months. The story begins with a calm scene that very quickly descends into brutal chaos! - I knew right then that I was in for a good ride with this book!
We follow Ellis, a family man with a wife and daughter. He begins his day as he normally would, only when he gets into work he is picked up by a police SWAT team and frog marched into a waiting van. He is being accused of a crime that he knows nothing about.
This is a fast paced novel packed full of mystery and suspense that kept me reading long into the late hours of the night and into the early hours of the morning.
It was thought provoking and powerful, perfectly executed and satisfying. The descriptions of the scenery were vivid and totally captured my imagination!
There is a very important message that emerges as the story progresses and starts to come together. This is not just a crime/thriller/mystery novel, it’s so much more than that. The story brings to the reader's attention something that many of us have never really given much thought to.
If you are looking for a masterpiece of a story with thrills, twists and believability then this is for you!
I would like to say a huge thank you to Louis van Schalkwyk the author, for reaching out and taking the time to send me a copy of this book for review. I’m really looking forward to seeing what comes next for this author.
A well deserved top of the shop 5 stars for this one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We follow Ellis, a family man with a wife and daughter. He begins his day as he normally would, only when he gets into work he is picked up by a police SWAT team and frog marched into a waiting van. He is being accused of a crime that he knows nothing about.
This is a fast paced novel packed full of mystery and suspense that kept me reading long into the late hours of the night and into the early hours of the morning.
It was thought provoking and powerful, perfectly executed and satisfying. The descriptions of the scenery were vivid and totally captured my imagination!
There is a very important message that emerges as the story progresses and starts to come together. This is not just a crime/thriller/mystery novel, it’s so much more than that. The story brings to the reader's attention something that many of us have never really given much thought to.
If you are looking for a masterpiece of a story with thrills, twists and believability then this is for you!
I would like to say a huge thank you to Louis van Schalkwyk the author, for reaching out and taking the time to send me a copy of this book for review. I’m really looking forward to seeing what comes next for this author.
A well deserved top of the shop 5 stars for this one! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 5, 2023
"What Stephen was also unaware of was the fact that, before the night was through he would be dead"
Ellis Neill and his family have just moved to Toronto for a fresh start when he is suddenly arrested for a double-murder that he is adamant he had nothing to do with. Soon Ellis is imprisoned in a remote location and his wife and lawyer must fight to get him back. But the force they are up against is overwhelming and the suggestion of a cover up by the authorities is very real.
This book was really a wild ride and felt exactly like reading a Liam Neeson action movie in the best way possible. When I read the above quote about Stephen on page 2 I thought ‘okay, here we go, this is going to be intense.’ The plot is very fast paced with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers interested throughout. As with any great action movie there were a lot of tense moments and exciting scenes where you felt ‘how can he possibly get out of this one!’ It really kept me turning the pages to find out whether Ellis really would be free.
There are plenty of characters who are all given really great depth which makes the story come alive. Cynthia (Ellis’ wife) is a standout character for me as she was such a strong woman, so dedicated to her family and really able to fend for herself in a way that was so impressive. I also really enjoyed detective William Black’s journey starting from being the detective to put Ellis away for the murder.
Just want to mention that the book is a little violent at times so beware of this when reading. For me that was okay but there are a couple of scenes that are a tad gruesome.
I really enjoyed this book and if you’re into action & thriller novels then you should add this one to your TBR. Thank you to Kinsley Publishers for gifting me a copy of this book to read & review on Kindle. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ellis Neill and his family have just moved to Toronto for a fresh start when he is suddenly arrested for a double-murder that he is adamant he had nothing to do with. Soon Ellis is imprisoned in a remote location and his wife and lawyer must fight to get him back. But the force they are up against is overwhelming and the suggestion of a cover up by the authorities is very real.
This book was really a wild ride and felt exactly like reading a Liam Neeson action movie in the best way possible. When I read the above quote about Stephen on page 2 I thought ‘okay, here we go, this is going to be intense.’ The plot is very fast paced with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers interested throughout. As with any great action movie there were a lot of tense moments and exciting scenes where you felt ‘how can he possibly get out of this one!’ It really kept me turning the pages to find out whether Ellis really would be free.
There are plenty of characters who are all given really great depth which makes the story come alive. Cynthia (Ellis’ wife) is a standout character for me as she was such a strong woman, so dedicated to her family and really able to fend for herself in a way that was so impressive. I also really enjoyed detective William Black’s journey starting from being the detective to put Ellis away for the murder.
Just want to mention that the book is a little violent at times so beware of this when reading. For me that was okay but there are a couple of scenes that are a tad gruesome.
I really enjoyed this book and if you’re into action & thriller novels then you should add this one to your TBR. Thank you to Kinsley Publishers for gifting me a copy of this book to read & review on Kindle. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 17, 2022
When Judge Stephen Thatcher and his wife Stella are brutally murdered in there home everyone in the police department pull out all the stops to catch the killer.
After two tours in Afghanistan and being a private man for hire as a personal bodyguard.
Ellis his wife Cynthia and ten year old daughter Rose just want a quiet life and decide to more to Toronto and even if his job as a part time car mechanic doesn't pay much it means the world to him and his family.
Until one morning after he gets to work his whole life falls apart when several SWAT teams arrest him for the murder of the Judge and his wife
Everything is stacked against him including evidence that is found in his home but what ever happened to be innocent before proven guilty?
After being incarcerated into the Stone Hill penitentiary also known as the Ice Box everything feels helpless but for the help of his cell mate Bobby. Especially when Cynthia, Rose and his own lawyer doesn't know where he is or if he's still alive.
Warden Blakeway is not in the best shape, borderline alcoholic and it the pocket of the mob boss Vito he has little run of what goes on in his prison.
With the help of Detective William Black can Cynthia and Rose discover the truth about who set Ellis up and why before anyone else dies?
A brilliant and fast paced novel. I'm looking forward to reading more from Louis Van Schalkwyk.
After two tours in Afghanistan and being a private man for hire as a personal bodyguard.
Ellis his wife Cynthia and ten year old daughter Rose just want a quiet life and decide to more to Toronto and even if his job as a part time car mechanic doesn't pay much it means the world to him and his family.
Until one morning after he gets to work his whole life falls apart when several SWAT teams arrest him for the murder of the Judge and his wife
Everything is stacked against him including evidence that is found in his home but what ever happened to be innocent before proven guilty?
After being incarcerated into the Stone Hill penitentiary also known as the Ice Box everything feels helpless but for the help of his cell mate Bobby. Especially when Cynthia, Rose and his own lawyer doesn't know where he is or if he's still alive.
Warden Blakeway is not in the best shape, borderline alcoholic and it the pocket of the mob boss Vito he has little run of what goes on in his prison.
With the help of Detective William Black can Cynthia and Rose discover the truth about who set Ellis up and why before anyone else dies?
A brilliant and fast paced novel. I'm looking forward to reading more from Louis Van Schalkwyk.
April 19, 2022
I found this a highly enjoyable read!
The story kicked off at a fast pace and kept me at the edge of my seat. It reminded me a bit of Breakout by Paul Herron with the same fast pace and intensity but it did unravel a bit for me after the 1st half of the book with 1 or 2 things that didn't tie together. With that said I still thoroughly enjoyed the read. It is one of those stories that will make a brilliant movie! The writing is very visual and I felt like getting a hot cup of tea for the chills when Ellis was trying to escape!
Ellis Neill is an ordinary guy, haunted by his past but determined to make a new start and be there for his family, especially his daughter. Then, out of the blue, he is arrested for the murder of a prominent judge and his wife, and the kitchen sink is thrown at him. All efforts to prove his innocents are railroaded. He is found guilty and is moved to Stone Hill Penitentiary. A prison run by a bent warden where no one's life is safe. Here he must fend for himself while nobody knows where he is.
Will he be able to prove his innocence and who is behind all of this? Who can he trust and will there be a happily ever after for him and his family......
Thank you to the author and Kingsley Publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story kicked off at a fast pace and kept me at the edge of my seat. It reminded me a bit of Breakout by Paul Herron with the same fast pace and intensity but it did unravel a bit for me after the 1st half of the book with 1 or 2 things that didn't tie together. With that said I still thoroughly enjoyed the read. It is one of those stories that will make a brilliant movie! The writing is very visual and I felt like getting a hot cup of tea for the chills when Ellis was trying to escape!
Ellis Neill is an ordinary guy, haunted by his past but determined to make a new start and be there for his family, especially his daughter. Then, out of the blue, he is arrested for the murder of a prominent judge and his wife, and the kitchen sink is thrown at him. All efforts to prove his innocents are railroaded. He is found guilty and is moved to Stone Hill Penitentiary. A prison run by a bent warden where no one's life is safe. Here he must fend for himself while nobody knows where he is.
Will he be able to prove his innocence and who is behind all of this? Who can he trust and will there be a happily ever after for him and his family......
Thank you to the author and Kingsley Publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 27, 2022
This is a crime thriller book that I really enjoyed. The main premise is that a man is arrested for murder. He is arrested, convicted and sent to prison. One problem though, he really didn't do it!
Ellis is a married man with a daughter. He works in a garage and is stable and happy. Nothing to indicate why he would be arrested. The story is definitely an enigma, as it isn't until the latter part of the book that the author drops the reason for his sudden and completely unexpected demise.
Between the arrest and the realisation of what is actually going on, is a roller coaster of a story. His family and also lawyer are unable to discover what all this is about, where he is and why they are also being followed!
This is a tense crime mystery story. The mystery is one that kept me hooked, the crime part wasn't what I expected it to be and it does take some rather serious turns. The author ups the anti and this in turn becomes more of a thriller.
I really liked this book, it was interesting, and unexpected and kept me hooked. I would happily recommend this one and look forward to reading more by this author.
Ellis is a married man with a daughter. He works in a garage and is stable and happy. Nothing to indicate why he would be arrested. The story is definitely an enigma, as it isn't until the latter part of the book that the author drops the reason for his sudden and completely unexpected demise.
Between the arrest and the realisation of what is actually going on, is a roller coaster of a story. His family and also lawyer are unable to discover what all this is about, where he is and why they are also being followed!
This is a tense crime mystery story. The mystery is one that kept me hooked, the crime part wasn't what I expected it to be and it does take some rather serious turns. The author ups the anti and this in turn becomes more of a thriller.
I really liked this book, it was interesting, and unexpected and kept me hooked. I would happily recommend this one and look forward to reading more by this author.
May 8, 2022
Where to begin… What I loved most about this book was the explosive and exhilarating fast start pace from the very early pages into this book.
Excellent debut book from the author which delivered a compelling thriller that does not sacrifice on character and created continuous, engaging tension.
I was very much looking forward to this delivery of the prison theme/setting which did not disappoint and felt an incredible sense of atmosphere throughout while the author consistently demonstrated and delivered unexpected, twisty storylines that encouraged each page to be turned with anticipation for more!
Now, hungrily await to see what continues from Louis van Schalkwyk’s creativity of future books!
Excellent debut book from the author which delivered a compelling thriller that does not sacrifice on character and created continuous, engaging tension.
I was very much looking forward to this delivery of the prison theme/setting which did not disappoint and felt an incredible sense of atmosphere throughout while the author consistently demonstrated and delivered unexpected, twisty storylines that encouraged each page to be turned with anticipation for more!
Now, hungrily await to see what continues from Louis van Schalkwyk’s creativity of future books!
May 6, 2022
Ellis, the main character in the book, is sent to prison under a crime he didn’t commit. How can he prove it when there is solid evidence against him? As the book goes deeper into the story there is a long list of truths that are unraveled.
I found the book was a real page turner, and the plot and storyline flowed really well. I just loved it and I wasn’t bored at all through the story.
The villain in the story is one sick puppy and I was on edge just reading about them. I wanted to read but I was scared to keep reading.
I highly recommend to those who love blood and gore, sickening twists, murder mystery thrillers. Just an overall fantastic book.
I want to thank the beautiful team at Kingsley Publishers and the author Louis Van Schalkwyk for providing an ebook copy for reviewing purposes. I’m hope there is a sequel for the book 🤞
I found the book was a real page turner, and the plot and storyline flowed really well. I just loved it and I wasn’t bored at all through the story.
The villain in the story is one sick puppy and I was on edge just reading about them. I wanted to read but I was scared to keep reading.
I highly recommend to those who love blood and gore, sickening twists, murder mystery thrillers. Just an overall fantastic book.
I want to thank the beautiful team at Kingsley Publishers and the author Louis Van Schalkwyk for providing an ebook copy for reviewing purposes. I’m hope there is a sequel for the book 🤞
July 4, 2022
It was the cover that drew me to this book. Anything with a wintry landscape! And the book did not disappoint.
The story begins with a gruesome murder and only then do we meet our main character, accused of a crime he didn’t commit and convicted without any real chance of proving his innocence before he’s sent to a desolate prison.
The sequence of events is just this side of realistic and ramps up very quickly. The book is somewhat violent, but flows well and is fast-paced, and the body count soon begins to build.
This very much reminded me of the movie Taken or anything in that genre. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it to fans of thrillers. The writing style is confident and the pace never slackens.
The story begins with a gruesome murder and only then do we meet our main character, accused of a crime he didn’t commit and convicted without any real chance of proving his innocence before he’s sent to a desolate prison.
The sequence of events is just this side of realistic and ramps up very quickly. The book is somewhat violent, but flows well and is fast-paced, and the body count soon begins to build.
This very much reminded me of the movie Taken or anything in that genre. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it to fans of thrillers. The writing style is confident and the pace never slackens.
April 13, 2022
Thank you Kingsley publishers for ARC. Wow what a debut novel by this author. A judge and his wife are murdered. Ellis works as a mechanic, as he is starting work the police barge in and arrest him. As the book progresses Ellis is swept from 1 bad situation to the next ending in a conviction for murder and transported to the artic in remote Canada. He is unable to contact anyone from outside but why. This book is fast paced, twists and turns and I really enjoyed it. Can't wait to read more from this author
April 24, 2022
As far as thrillers go this one was top of the line. I did enjoy it quite a bit. It was fast paced and action packed and you weren't bored for even a second. The good stuff didn't take long to happen and you were teetering at the edge of your seat eager to uncover all the mysteries. I do, however, think that the reason for all the things that transpired in this novel, all that death, felt a little unnecessary (for lack of a better word). I was surprised at the twist but at the same time it fell a little flat for me because the motivation behind it all didn't seem justified enough. That said, Van Schalkwyk knows how to set a tone and put a reader right there in the scene with the characters. The book was brilliantly written, the story almost perfectly executed, I just wished for a little more to push it over the edge.
Thanks to Kingsley Publishers for this ARC.
Thanks to Kingsley Publishers for this ARC.
April 7, 2022
Instagram: @fictionandme
ɴᴀᴍᴇ : ᴛʜᴇ ᴅɪꜱᴄᴀʀᴅᴇᴅ
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : @louisvsauthor
ɢᴇɴʀᴇ : ᴄʀɪᴍᴇ, ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ
ᴍʏ ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ : 4.5🍪 /5
Wheww it was an awesome ride with topsy curvy twists thrown every other page! 🤩
The character development was very very good and of course like any other good book, a character I liked died 😑.
Right from the beginning there are shootings, murder and action - all of my favorites (yes, I know I sound like a psychopath 🙈).
Not just the main characters, the reader gets a glimpse into the mind of one of the villains and that was AWESOME! That level of sheer inhumanity so well written! Honestly this kind of character depth can only be done through books; movies and series will NEVER come close. 🙌
The ending had a good satisfactory climax, though the story depth had me expecting a much bigger twist and also I am still wondering about Ramona's actions - why she did the unexpected good thing for a couple of strangers. I would love to read a spin off novella on her life, maybe she was a double agent or something, that would be cool!
Honestly, this book felt like a Liam Neeson movie 🤩.
ɴᴀᴍᴇ : ᴛʜᴇ ᴅɪꜱᴄᴀʀᴅᴇᴅ
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : @louisvsauthor
ɢᴇɴʀᴇ : ᴄʀɪᴍᴇ, ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ
ᴍʏ ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ : 4.5🍪 /5
Wheww it was an awesome ride with topsy curvy twists thrown every other page! 🤩
The character development was very very good and of course like any other good book, a character I liked died 😑.
Right from the beginning there are shootings, murder and action - all of my favorites (yes, I know I sound like a psychopath 🙈).
Not just the main characters, the reader gets a glimpse into the mind of one of the villains and that was AWESOME! That level of sheer inhumanity so well written! Honestly this kind of character depth can only be done through books; movies and series will NEVER come close. 🙌
The ending had a good satisfactory climax, though the story depth had me expecting a much bigger twist and also I am still wondering about Ramona's actions - why she did the unexpected good thing for a couple of strangers. I would love to read a spin off novella on her life, maybe she was a double agent or something, that would be cool!
Honestly, this book felt like a Liam Neeson movie 🤩.
June 2, 2022
After the brutal murder of a judge and his wife, Ellis finds himself arrested, tried and found guilty of the crime. Although innocent, no one wants to listen, decisions made seem to be made by a higher power. This was a gripping story of injustice,v the plight of an innocent man hidden within the penal system and his wife and daughter who never gave up searching and fighting for him. Chilling in the extreme.
July 5, 2022
I received a copy with a request for my honest review.
This thriller follows Ellis Neill as one morning he is suddenly arrested for the murder of a judge and his wife.
Unexpectantly he is found guilty and is sent straight away to a high security prison in the Arctic.
He finds himself in danger, and in an impossible situation where he must find a way to escape before he is killed.
Meanwhile his family are also under threat and are on the run to escape the danger coming their way.
Will Ellis escape? Who is after Ellis and his family?
There is plenty of action in this thriller as everyone seems to be under an unknown threat. It keeps you interested throughout as you want to not only see if Ellis succeeds but find out the reason why someone is after him.
The storyline was even more riveting as you have the family also trying to stay safe at the same time.
It is a situation that would be difficult for anyone to deal with to be imprisoned for a crime you didn’t commit, so this adds to the intensity.
Overall, an action filled crime thriller where an innocent man finds himself in prison and under attack from un unknow threat.
This thriller follows Ellis Neill as one morning he is suddenly arrested for the murder of a judge and his wife.
Unexpectantly he is found guilty and is sent straight away to a high security prison in the Arctic.
He finds himself in danger, and in an impossible situation where he must find a way to escape before he is killed.
Meanwhile his family are also under threat and are on the run to escape the danger coming their way.
Will Ellis escape? Who is after Ellis and his family?
There is plenty of action in this thriller as everyone seems to be under an unknown threat. It keeps you interested throughout as you want to not only see if Ellis succeeds but find out the reason why someone is after him.
The storyline was even more riveting as you have the family also trying to stay safe at the same time.
It is a situation that would be difficult for anyone to deal with to be imprisoned for a crime you didn’t commit, so this adds to the intensity.
Overall, an action filled crime thriller where an innocent man finds himself in prison and under attack from un unknow threat.
April 20, 2022
BRILLIANT thriller! My heart was racing the entire time!!
I highly recommend this book. It was fast paced, and action packed with twist after twist. I couldn’t put the book down!
I love books that keep you gripped from the very start, and this one most certainly did just that.
So well written, a definite must read for thriller lovers who want to be kept at the edge of your seat!!
I highly recommend this book. It was fast paced, and action packed with twist after twist. I couldn’t put the book down!
I love books that keep you gripped from the very start, and this one most certainly did just that.
So well written, a definite must read for thriller lovers who want to be kept at the edge of your seat!!
April 17, 2022
This BOOK MUST be made into a MOVIE!!
5 Stars from me🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
It had my heart racing a million miles a second the entire time!
Such a fast paced thriller. I really enjoyed this one especially since the twists just kept on coming!!
I saw a blogger say it felt like being in a Liam Neeson movie and I have to agree!!
LOVED IT! Looking forward to more from this amazing Author
Also on KINDLE UNLIMITED
5 Stars from me🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
It had my heart racing a million miles a second the entire time!
Such a fast paced thriller. I really enjoyed this one especially since the twists just kept on coming!!
I saw a blogger say it felt like being in a Liam Neeson movie and I have to agree!!
LOVED IT! Looking forward to more from this amazing Author
Also on KINDLE UNLIMITED
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