The Whisper Man by Alex North Book Review



Title: The Whisper Man
By: Alex North
Publisher: Celadon Books
Publication Date: August 20, 2019
Pages: 368

In this dark, suspenseful thriller, Alex North weaves a multi-generational tale of a father and son caught in the crosshairs of an investigation to catch a serial killer preying on a small town.

After the sudden death of his wife, Tom Kennedy believes a fresh start will help him and his young son Jake heal. A new beginning, a new house, a new town. Featherbank.

But the town has a dark past. Twenty years ago, a serial killer abducted and murdered five residents. Until Frank Carter was finally caught, he was nicknamed "The Whisper Man," for he would lure his victims out by whispering at their windows at night.

Just as Tom and Jake settle into their new home, a young boy vanishes. His disappearance bears an unnerving resemblance to Frank Carter's crimes, reigniting old rumors that he preyed with an accomplice. Now, detectives Amanda Beck and Pete Willis must find the boy before it is too late, even if that means Pete has to revisit his great foe in prison: The Whisper Man.

And then Jake begins acting strangely. He hears a whispering at his window...



MY REVIEW
This book has definitely expanded my horizons when it comes to the thriller/suspense genre. The story lay out and viewpoints are exceptionally accurate not just on a theoretical level, but a human one. The Depth Alex North is able to ascertain to paint a picture of the reality of grief, including pain, resentment, failing and guilt is breathtaking. Not just for the departed but for those who remain. 

The multiple story angles coming from the different views of the characters give the story a well-rounded view. The chain of events and information flow is smooth and fitting to the story. As a parent myself, the topic is about as horrible as one could imagine, and at times your heart will tighten at the reality, that too many people have lived a similar nightmare. The knowledge you have and ideas of how you believe the story will play out keeps your thoughts questioning some decisions, I was impressed at the authors ability to recognize the expected point of view of the reader and without breaking the flow of the story, explain why they are doing what seems unnatural or misguided, from the readers vantage point. The explanation and description of the atrocity’s committed, is extremely well laid out, it will make you skin crawl, but is not gory or overly descript. It is approached in a way that leaves the small details to be filled by the readers depiction of fear. That, to me, is quite a task that the author has done splendidly.

The cover design is elegant and understated, with the looming gloom prevalent. Marketing is something that has always grabbed my attention, and I think it is well done here. Alex North’s ability to captivate and lay out the desires and beliefs of the characters is astounding, and in turn created a new fan.

Disclosure: All opinions are my own. I received The Whisper Man at no cost for the purpose of this review. No other compensation was received.

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