Chapter One by Michael Wood

5 Stars from me ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The best word I can come up with for this book is sublime. It is just perfect, and while it is a terrific read, it is also incredible to listen to. There is something about the tortured voice of the author in this story that my mind would not have conjured up on its own and it absolutely brings the story to vivid life.

I could feel Aidan’s pain emanating from within the pages, the author’s ability to convey anxiety, trauma, introspection and self-doubt is to be applauded. Chapter One is a work of genius. I was hooked and found myself driving slower to enjoy ‘one more chapter’. I absolutely loved my journeys with this book.

I never like to give spoilers so I will just say that I loved everything about this book, I loved the central characters, I loved the atmosphere, I appreciated the time spent building up even the most peripheral of characters, and this is such a trademark of Michael Wood, his characterisation is flawless.

I cannot recommend his books enough and if you’ve yet to enjoy the Matilda Darke series, then I envy you!

Blurb: A copycat killer is on the loose but who really has blood on their hands?

For years, Aidan Cullen has dreamed of becoming a successful crime writer. When his hard work finally pays off and his first book is published, what should have been a night of celebration unravels into an evening of horror. Left for dead after a brutal attack, trauma leaves him paranoid and reclusive, and he retreats to the remote countryside with only his dog Nanook for company. With the world kept at arm’s length, he begins to feel safe. That is, until a woman is murdered at the end of his road.

With the police asking questions and a stalker knocking on his door, Aidan’s peace is completely shattered. And when the murderer strikes again, he starts to see a pattern in the killings; a pattern only he can recognise. Is the killer sending him a message or is his mind playing tricks on him? When you can’t trust yourself, nobody is safe.