The Players by Darren O’Sullivan (Review by Amanda Woodruff)

Rated 5/5 stars

Once I read the synopsis of The Players I knew it was a book for me. I am OBSESSED with psychological thrillers and this book fit the bill.

Firstly I love how the cover art ties in with a main component of the story. I also loved the fact that the main character identified as a member of the LGBTQ community, I am so pleased to see that demographic being included in plot lines and stories.

We meet Karen a member of the police force. She has faced some challenges in the line of duty and not only was demoted but is currently on a leave. I really appreciated her character and how she lived, and breathed her job despite being on leave. She couldn’t let her partner suffer, and flounder and had a real knack for solving crimes. She dives into the case head first and causes all sorts of chaos in the meantime.

Karen and her partner are working together to take down “The Host” a sick minded person who wears a motorcycle helmet with a GoPro attached and films two strangers and at times people familiar with one another literally battle to the death. He threatens them with harming their family members/loved ones if they don’t participate in his game. He sets a timer and when it’s over he posts the videos to all social media outlets to cause mayhem and fear into the community.

The development of the characters was really well done. I could feel the frustration of her wife Sam, and empathize with Karen at the same time. I even felt sympathy towards the host.

The Host was meticulous in planning the “games” and had me at the edge of my seat so eager to turn the page. I stayed up late at night finishing this book and I really liked it! I didn’t see the ending coming and was surprised.
Overall this book was a psychological thriller through and through. Pick this one up if you are a fan of thrillers and want a book to think about!

I can’t wait to read more of Darren O’Sullivan’s books.

Happy Reading fellow Bookworms.