the stalker

Hi friends! I received an ARC of this book from Avon Books UK and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This book won’t be published until July 8 of 2021, but feel free to read my review to see if you should add it to your list! Although I received this book for free, all thoughts and feedback are my own.

Synopsis & Quick Thoughts

The Stalker is the latest novel by author Sarah Alderson. Newlyweds Liam and Laura are finally spending their honeymoon together, on a remote island off the coast of Scotland. But they constantly feel that they’re being watched. And after seeing someone on the edge of the woods and scratches appearing on their cottage window, they know they’re not alone. And, more worrisome, this stranger wants them gone.

Let me tell you, thrillers don’t normally get me the way this book ABSOLUTELY got me. This book was an absolute blast to read. The slow burn had me guessing all the way until the reveal, which I absolutely did not see coming. I made noises out loud. I had to take a minute. I took several deep breaths and explained everything to my uninvested but very patient fiancé. Seriously, this book was so much fun and I loved every second of it.

Positives

This book was really just a ton of fun. The atmosphere was very dreary and suspenseful and greatly improved the environment and suspenseful nature of the plot. The writing style wasn’t anything to write home about (but sometimes that’s for the best), and the plot was very much a slow burn. The best part of this book were the twists and the ending, which I won’t get into for the sake of spoilers. Just know that it was excellent. I think some people may be able to guess the ending, but I was too engrossed in the story to give it any thought, and it took my by total surprise.

Negatives

The only thing that I can complain about with this book is that the plot is pretty slow burning, especially in the beginning. Once I powered through the first 25% or so, it picked up and full immersed me, but getting there required a little bit of perseverance. Absolutely worth it though, don’t get me wrong, especially if you tend to enjoy more suspenseful building thrillers.

Rating & Final Thoughts

The Stalker gets 4.5 out of 5 stars from me. I know this review was shorter than some of the other ones I’ve done, but there isn’t a whole lot to say. This book was awesome. I think about it frequently. I’m debating buying it when it releases in print. I didn’t think this book was five star worthy, because very few books are for me, but it was about as close as you can get. If you’re a thriller fan, absolutely look into this one. It was as much fun as I’ve had with a thriller in a very long time.