Title

The title for this book got my attention immediately because straight away, I began feeling mystery vibes from it which I like. I also haven't seen a title like that before so it is something different, a bit creative I'd say.

Cover

The cover is not too simple but not too much; I feel like the image fits well with the book and the title stands out because of the font that's been used. I can already sense that it's a mystery book from the cover itself.

The text at the top where it says the author's name and 'book one' is a little too close together however. It is a bit cramped, so you could try positioning it elsewhere or playing around with the size of the text.

Blurb

The blurb is creative; it builds up the mystery and makes you want to start reading the book to find out what it is about. It tells me absolutely nothing about the main character, which is good because as a reader, I want to find out for myself. The author has done a good job in not giving away any spoilers there.

First Chapter

The first chapter begins with a small flashback that the main character is having whilst asleep, and I'm able to see how it's affecting him as he's unable to sleep and sobbing. The chapter did drag me in because I wanted to know what his past was and why is it affecting him in that way; it made me want to carry on reading.

Plot / Theme

Throughout the rest of the chapters, I'm able to see how Jesse's life is in the present, but at the same time we have his memories pushing through the cracks which is allowing us to get to know his past.

It does get me thinking more and more about his past, seeing as he doesn't use his real name - Conor - and is dealing in the black market.

The theme of the book is largely mystery as we're slowly being let into his life and figuring out what has happened to him. This makes me want to carry on reading as each chapter draws me in. The plot moves at a reasonable pace, the author doesn't rush too fast but, but instead builds it up for the reader, making them want more. I was definitely shocked a few times whilst reading because I didn't expect certain events to occur or characters to appear.

Writing

The writing is good and I did enjoy reading the story. The author really builds up the anticipation throughout the book, leaving the readers hanging onto the end of each chapter. I'd say just to go over spelling and grammar and correct that and maybe try using imagery in your writing as well.

Characters

Jesse/Conor is a very interesting character in the book. I like how his character develops throughout the book: at first he's more to himself but then he begins opening up more and I'm able to see other sides of him which weren't shown at first. He does manage to warm up to Andrea and build some kind of relationship with her as the chapters go on. I do want to see more of Andrea's emotions and her past as well as she opens up to Conor because she seems very closed up.

Overall Impression

The book is really good, I enjoyed reading it for sure. The characters are all entertaining throughout the book; each of them have a sense of humour and there's different emotions being displayed between them.

The plot was well planned out, and there were definitely a few unexpected twists and turns that I wasn't expecting at all but I did like them as I got to know the characters more.

I'd say to carry on writing the way you are but try using more vocabulary so the reader does not get bored at all and make sure each and every chapter is as consistent as the next.

Reviewed by: Pixie