jdkauthor's review against another edition
4.0
Originally posted over at my personal blog site, Night Terror Novels
“He didn’t like silence. Bad things live in the shadows and silence.”
– Craig Wallwork, Bad People
“He didn’t like silence. Bad things live in the shadows and silence.”
– Craig Wallwork, Bad People
rock_n_reads's review
5.0
I’m fairly certain I can count on one hand how many thrillers I’ve read in the past year or so.
I’ve been so caught up in the world of horror fiction that I haven’t strayed much with my reading choices for a while, but I do enjoy a good crime thriller here and there, especially when the story contains elements of horror. Recently I discovered such a book, when I began reading BAD PEOPLE.
First off, I have to say that while I “see” most stories in my mind as I’m reading, there are certain books that just beg to be adapted to film or television, and this is one of them. Reading this story was like watching a great movie—there are certain scenes burned onto my brain because the descriptions were so vivid. The story starts out rather calm as we’re introduced to some key characters, and I’d say that the first half is a slow burn, but in the best way possible. The author did a great job laying the groundwork with the main character’s background, and the setting itself played a strong role in the dark and moody atmosphere. For the first half of the book, it felt like there were storm clouds hanging overhead, slowly brewing something ominous—and then the downpour was unleashed in the second half. At this point I felt the tension, twists and turns and terror intensify, and I couldn’t put it down.
The character development in this story is well-done. I felt like I had a good sense of who the main players were (despite some surprises), and I got to know them without ever feeling like there was too much information. I grew attached to a couple of the characters and felt a lot of empathy for them. In my opinion, this is one of those books in which there are no wasted words. There were moments in which I actually felt frightened (which doesn’t happen to me often), and just some very cinematic and gruesome moments that I won’t ever forget. I’d like to keep this spoiler free, so I’ll limit myself to a few other thoughts.
When I thought I knew what was happening earlier on in the story, this one kept me guessing. I loved that it kept me on my toes as a reader, and I appreciated the dark and moody vibe that I felt throughout this book. It’s very much a unique story, but as I watched it play out in my mind, it reminded me of how I felt watching some favorite crime thrillers on television (Season One of True Detective came to mind, as did The Killing). There are some supernatural and religious/cultish themes in this story, and I really enjoyed that aspect as well.
Like I mentioned before, it’s been awhile since I’ve read a thriller, and this one was a perfect selection. I did have a few questions at the end, and I just found out today that there will be a sequel coming in the near future. I’ll be on the lookout for the continuation of this story, while also keeping my fingers crossed that we’ll someday see a screen adaptation. This one ranks fairly high for me—I’d gladly place a hard copy on my shelf next to the likes of some other favorite thrillers, by authors such as Gillian Flynn, Dennis Lehane, and Graham Masterton. While I await the sequel, I’ll be seeking out more of Craig Wallwork’s stories to add to my shelf.
I’ve been so caught up in the world of horror fiction that I haven’t strayed much with my reading choices for a while, but I do enjoy a good crime thriller here and there, especially when the story contains elements of horror. Recently I discovered such a book, when I began reading BAD PEOPLE.
First off, I have to say that while I “see” most stories in my mind as I’m reading, there are certain books that just beg to be adapted to film or television, and this is one of them. Reading this story was like watching a great movie—there are certain scenes burned onto my brain because the descriptions were so vivid. The story starts out rather calm as we’re introduced to some key characters, and I’d say that the first half is a slow burn, but in the best way possible. The author did a great job laying the groundwork with the main character’s background, and the setting itself played a strong role in the dark and moody atmosphere. For the first half of the book, it felt like there were storm clouds hanging overhead, slowly brewing something ominous—and then the downpour was unleashed in the second half. At this point I felt the tension, twists and turns and terror intensify, and I couldn’t put it down.
The character development in this story is well-done. I felt like I had a good sense of who the main players were (despite some surprises), and I got to know them without ever feeling like there was too much information. I grew attached to a couple of the characters and felt a lot of empathy for them. In my opinion, this is one of those books in which there are no wasted words. There were moments in which I actually felt frightened (which doesn’t happen to me often), and just some very cinematic and gruesome moments that I won’t ever forget. I’d like to keep this spoiler free, so I’ll limit myself to a few other thoughts.
When I thought I knew what was happening earlier on in the story, this one kept me guessing. I loved that it kept me on my toes as a reader, and I appreciated the dark and moody vibe that I felt throughout this book. It’s very much a unique story, but as I watched it play out in my mind, it reminded me of how I felt watching some favorite crime thrillers on television (Season One of True Detective came to mind, as did The Killing). There are some supernatural and religious/cultish themes in this story, and I really enjoyed that aspect as well.
Like I mentioned before, it’s been awhile since I’ve read a thriller, and this one was a perfect selection. I did have a few questions at the end, and I just found out today that there will be a sequel coming in the near future. I’ll be on the lookout for the continuation of this story, while also keeping my fingers crossed that we’ll someday see a screen adaptation. This one ranks fairly high for me—I’d gladly place a hard copy on my shelf next to the likes of some other favorite thrillers, by authors such as Gillian Flynn, Dennis Lehane, and Graham Masterton. While I await the sequel, I’ll be seeking out more of Craig Wallwork’s stories to add to my shelf.
readingvicariously's review
5.0
When I’m getting strong vibes of Se7en, True Detective, and Red Dragon I know I’m reading something special. If you like any of those then you’re going to love this blend of horror and dark crime thriller. It’s tense, well-paced, chilling, and wonderfully written. It also deals with a sinister cult, so you know I’m hooked
I like how it bounces around from different characters’ perspectives (including the kidnapper), and while all the cast is great, Detective Nolan is definitely my favorite
It does this great thing where you’re introduced to a killer early on, leading you into a false sense of “I know what to expect”. But you don’t. You really don’t. Multiple twists I didn’t see coming, including a mind-blowing ending. Oh and it’s one of those stories where when things are going good for too long you’re waiting with bated breath for the other shoe to drop
I also like how specific and realistic all the police procedural and investigative terminology is. It’s thorough but interesting. Wallwork really seems to know his stuff (hopefully learned on the right side of the law...)
This book is amazing and I’m so excited there’s a sequel coming out soon! My full review will be posted on my blog and Goodreads. Special thanks to author @craig_wallwork for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
I like how it bounces around from different characters’ perspectives (including the kidnapper), and while all the cast is great, Detective Nolan is definitely my favorite
It does this great thing where you’re introduced to a killer early on, leading you into a false sense of “I know what to expect”. But you don’t. You really don’t. Multiple twists I didn’t see coming, including a mind-blowing ending. Oh and it’s one of those stories where when things are going good for too long you’re waiting with bated breath for the other shoe to drop
I also like how specific and realistic all the police procedural and investigative terminology is. It’s thorough but interesting. Wallwork really seems to know his stuff (hopefully learned on the right side of the law...)
This book is amazing and I’m so excited there’s a sequel coming out soon! My full review will be posted on my blog and Goodreads. Special thanks to author @craig_wallwork for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review!
nerdontheloose's review
4.0
I went in with so much anticipation and it really did live up to my expectations, that is until the final reveal, and for that I'm taking away a star, and it makes me sad!
Dark, gritty, and suspenseful. Just the prologue had me gasping for air, it was so dark and bloody, and promising. I really enjoyed every bit of it. The prose was beautiful too, so well-written and well researched, and just perfect. Each character was told in such a way I could picture them and hear their distinct voices, I mean, isn't that awesome?!
But yeah, that ending though! It was just the last few lines that did the final reveal, and maybe it's just me but it did not make sense to me. I mean, I understand what happened but it's just too farfetched for me.
Recommended anyways 'cause this ride is damn thrilling!
Dark, gritty, and suspenseful. Just the prologue had me gasping for air, it was so dark and bloody, and promising. I really enjoyed every bit of it. The prose was beautiful too, so well-written and well researched, and just perfect. Each character was told in such a way I could picture them and hear their distinct voices, I mean, isn't that awesome?!
But yeah, that ending though! It was just the last few lines that did the final reveal, and maybe it's just me but it did not make sense to me. I mean, I understand what happened but it's just too farfetched for me.
Recommended anyways 'cause this ride is damn thrilling!
brianamorganbooks's review
5.0
This book has been on my radar for quite some time, so I was ecstatic to get my hands on it. Wallwork has a knack for storytelling, worldbuilding, and crafting compelling, realistic characters. This crime thriller kept me on the edge of my seat, and I'm looking forward to reading more of the author's work. Highly recommend!
courtney_g's review
4.0
WARNING: Some small spoilers ahead.
I really loved this book up until the very end. There was a lot of heavy gore but the depth of the plot and the detective work made it much more difficult to put down. I would give this a 4.5 out of 5 as I personally felt the very end was missing something. It almost felt as if there was a cliff-hanger or a solution to the plot that I missed. I loved the following 5 things about this book:
*the detailed imagery throughout the reading made me feel as if I was in the story myself along with each main character
*the general plot of trying to figure out what was happening with the missing children
*the added possibility of a cult influence in the murders and kidnappings
*the element of mystery allowed me to play detective alongside Nolan and Coonan
This was definitely worth the read and I will certainly be on the lookout for more by this amazing author.
I really loved this book up until the very end. There was a lot of heavy gore but the depth of the plot and the detective work made it much more difficult to put down. I would give this a 4.5 out of 5 as I personally felt the very end was missing something. It almost felt as if there was a cliff-hanger or a solution to the plot that I missed. I loved the following 5 things about this book:
*the detailed imagery throughout the reading made me feel as if I was in the story myself along with each main character
*the general plot of trying to figure out what was happening with the missing children
*the added possibility of a cult influence in the murders and kidnappings
*the element of mystery allowed me to play detective alongside Nolan and Coonan
This was definitely worth the read and I will certainly be on the lookout for more by this amazing author.
monty_reads's review
4.0
There is something deeply unsettling about Craig Wallwork's Bad People. As a horror fan for 30+ years, this is a compliment I can't make often. I'm desensitized. Jaded. Too cool for school. When it comes to horror, as much as I still love it, there isn't much that gets to me anymore.
There's a big reveal toward the end of Bad People, the thing you know the book is building toward, something you hope is going to be as creepy as it seems. When it happened I actually said, "Ewwww" out loud. And with enough volume for my wife to call from the other room, "What's up?"
Bad People got to me.
And here's the really cool thing. Not unlike Lauren Beukes' Broken Monsters, the best thing I read last year, it's a seamless blend of horror and mystery. Because this book is ostensibly a mystery, and that lends it a gravitas I often find missing from straight-up horror that deals in the supernatural. Detective Tom Nolan is on the case of several missing children, and his search for the abductors intersects with Alex Palmer, an author visiting the area to conduct research for his next book. How it intersects is the stuff of spoilers, so I won't go into too much detail, but it involves the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch, warped interpretations of religion, and unacceptable uses of kitchen appliances. It's a compelling whodunit, but it's also a disturbing horror story that fully leans into what years of serial killers have revealed about humanity.
Bad People works as well as it does because Wallwork understands that true horror is found in the mundane, horrible acts people do to each other. Hell, it's in the title. I mean, I love Stephen King and Paranormal Activity and all the supernatural creepy-crawlies that have been the stuff of nightmares for eons. But if hell is other people (as Sartre so astutely taught us), Bad People is that lesson brought to life. It's eminently believable. And that's the scariest thing of all.
There's a big reveal toward the end of Bad People, the thing you know the book is building toward, something you hope is going to be as creepy as it seems. When it happened I actually said, "Ewwww" out loud. And with enough volume for my wife to call from the other room, "What's up?"
Bad People got to me.
And here's the really cool thing. Not unlike Lauren Beukes' Broken Monsters, the best thing I read last year, it's a seamless blend of horror and mystery. Because this book is ostensibly a mystery, and that lends it a gravitas I often find missing from straight-up horror that deals in the supernatural. Detective Tom Nolan is on the case of several missing children, and his search for the abductors intersects with Alex Palmer, an author visiting the area to conduct research for his next book. How it intersects is the stuff of spoilers, so I won't go into too much detail, but it involves the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch, warped interpretations of religion, and unacceptable uses of kitchen appliances. It's a compelling whodunit, but it's also a disturbing horror story that fully leans into what years of serial killers have revealed about humanity.
Bad People works as well as it does because Wallwork understands that true horror is found in the mundane, horrible acts people do to each other. Hell, it's in the title. I mean, I love Stephen King and Paranormal Activity and all the supernatural creepy-crawlies that have been the stuff of nightmares for eons. But if hell is other people (as Sartre so astutely taught us), Bad People is that lesson brought to life. It's eminently believable. And that's the scariest thing of all.
onetrackmind77's review
4.0
This ended up being a great dark and gritty crime/horror novel. This is listed as "A Tom Nolan Book", but as a character, I found Tom Nolan kind of forgettable...the story and characters surrounding him were fantastic however. Interested to see if Nolan gets some personality in the next book, but I will definitely be following the story for Wallwork's dark imagination.
honestmamreader's review
4.0
I love when an opening chapter makes me squirm and gives me chills. I know I'm in for a great story. So, when Craig Wallwork describes that someone gets a cordless sander and...
"The rough kiss of sandpaper removed the first layer of skin within seconds. A minute later, it had reached muscle. The young man passed out shortly after it began to sand down his cheekbone."
Then I knew Bad People was going to be a cracker. The story follows Alex Palmer. He's a well known crime author and an ex cop. His past as a policeman has made him be able to conjure up great stories. However, he's in a bit of a rut and needs some inspiration. This is why he ends up in Stormer Hill.
A recent spate of missing children in the town seems to be a good starting point to get ideas. Tom Nolan, the local detective has been summoned to guide Palmer around and brief him on the case. It's quite obvious there's a bit of tension between these two characters. But, I like how this works as we get to see a different side to them.
Whilst Palmer is in town a girl goes missing. And, Palmer finds himself deeply ensconced in the case. Time is of the essence and with the whole town getting more anxious and worried. Fingers start pointing and questions need answering. Nolan needs to act quick.
I really enjoyed Bad People. There was plenty of mystery and intrigue. I liked the fact that some characters were an enigma to us the reader, and gave an added dimension of wonder.
"The Ghost stepped forward, courting that fragile light to give shape to its face. Gram watched gloom shift from its hollowed cheeks and eyes, and then gather at the corners of a sinister smile"
The tension mounts throughout the story culminating in a fantastic ending. That left me quite gob smacked as I didn't expect it at all. A brilliant plot line.
I would like to thank Craig Wallwork for my gifted digital copy, and I'll definitely be reading more of his work if Bad People is anything to go by.
"The rough kiss of sandpaper removed the first layer of skin within seconds. A minute later, it had reached muscle. The young man passed out shortly after it began to sand down his cheekbone."
Then I knew Bad People was going to be a cracker. The story follows Alex Palmer. He's a well known crime author and an ex cop. His past as a policeman has made him be able to conjure up great stories. However, he's in a bit of a rut and needs some inspiration. This is why he ends up in Stormer Hill.
A recent spate of missing children in the town seems to be a good starting point to get ideas. Tom Nolan, the local detective has been summoned to guide Palmer around and brief him on the case. It's quite obvious there's a bit of tension between these two characters. But, I like how this works as we get to see a different side to them.
Whilst Palmer is in town a girl goes missing. And, Palmer finds himself deeply ensconced in the case. Time is of the essence and with the whole town getting more anxious and worried. Fingers start pointing and questions need answering. Nolan needs to act quick.
I really enjoyed Bad People. There was plenty of mystery and intrigue. I liked the fact that some characters were an enigma to us the reader, and gave an added dimension of wonder.
"The Ghost stepped forward, courting that fragile light to give shape to its face. Gram watched gloom shift from its hollowed cheeks and eyes, and then gather at the corners of a sinister smile"
The tension mounts throughout the story culminating in a fantastic ending. That left me quite gob smacked as I didn't expect it at all. A brilliant plot line.
I would like to thank Craig Wallwork for my gifted digital copy, and I'll definitely be reading more of his work if Bad People is anything to go by.