Thanks to Mark Tilbury and BloodHound Books for an ARC of this book and the opportunity to take part in this blog tour! In fact, I am over the moon to be kicking this tour off as this is one gem of a read!
Synopsis:
The past is never far away.
Michael Tate has not had an easy life. With his father in prison, and his mother dead, Michael was sent to Woodside Children’s Home.
Now an adult, Michael wakes up from a coma in hospital suffering from amnesia and paralysis. Confused and terrified, he is charged with the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, Becky. He also learns he attempted to end his own life.
Detective Inspector John Carver is determined that Michael is sent to prison.
With no way of defending himself, Michael is left in his hospital bed awaiting transfer to remand.
But then strange things begin to happen and his childhood comes back to haunt him.
Can Michael ever escape the past?
Will he ever discover the truth about Becky’s murder?
And why is DI Carver so eager to make him suffer?
The Abattoir of Dreams is a bitter sweet story of murder, innocence and abuse.
My Rating: 5/5
My Review:
Right! Can we talk book covers first? LOVE this cover as it really depicts the story and the emotions found within the pages: dark, haunting, trapped, fear – perfect for this read! Best get on with my review!
Set in Oxford, the reader is faced with childhood trauma, fear, loss, uncertainty, mind-games, betrayal and friendship. There is so much going on and so many questions that need answering – but the author does a great job of unravelling the story and revealing the resolution without confusing the reader! YAY!
In terms of the plot, well OMFG, my curiosity was piqued from the start – and the pace was perfect for this type of story, racing when required and slowing down at the moments where I needed it to! I enjoyed how the backstory was intertwined into the main story and did not find it overly descriptive. It worked…it worked well!! The topic is not for the faint hearted and although there are uncomfortable parts, it is something that happens / has happened and all too easily brushed under the carpet. Hard-hitting, edgy and enthralling- you totally find yourself immersed in the story!
OMG there were so many interesting and captivating characters in this story. No #CharacterFillers! Each one had a specific role to play and added to the story. As usual, if I talk about them all, this will turn into a wee novella, so I will highlight the ones who really got under my skin – whether in a good way or bad!
Michael Tate is the main character and really is a survivor in all sense of the word! Determined to regain his memories, his life and the truth- he allows his mind to suspend belief and what unfolds is absolutely horrifying yet mesmerising as you just need to know more! For me, his courage, strength and integrity really shine through and I was cheering him on every step of the way! Adored him! You almost felt like you were going back in time with the characters, and I also forgot how young Michael actually was (21 yrs old) as he had a more mature head on him. Absolutely brilliant! Oh, and I have to mention Oxo – awwwww- and that is all I am saying about that! (you were right Mark, loved Oxo!)
Jimmy was another character I was completely drawn too! Never faltering in his belief that his friend was innocent, he did everything he could to help Michael – despite all the evidence saying otherwise! Everybody needs a Jimmy in their life!
Liam Truman is someone we meet along the way and my heart went out to this kid. Tough on the outside, his loyalty, friendship and desire to protect those he cared about …no matter what the cost….really pulled at my heartstrings!
John Carver …what an arse. Total old school copper in the bad sense and nasty to boot! Describing him as vile might actually be a compliment. You almost want to jump in the pages and give this guy what for! Uugghhh…I don’t even want to waste another word on him – but what a well written character!! Each character had a distinctive voice and I was pleasantly surprised, despite the storyline, how much I really loved this book!
So….the question is, would I recommend this book? Hell Bloody Yeah, I would! If you like challenging story-lines, can suspend your imagination, enjoy tension/feeling anxious waiting to see what will happen, and a cracking twist or two – then this is the book for you! When the book is available on February 28th, I will update this post to include the links! But in the meantime, why not check out what else this author has on offer – he is most definitely on my radar now! #OneToWatch #NewAuthorForMe!
It is a cracking read, Donna. Let me know if you do read it. Would love to hear your thoughts!
Between an amazing cover and a few OMGs in your review, I know I’d enjoy this book who seems to have everything to keep you hooked!!