Review of The Awakening

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 05 May 2024, 07:49

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Awakening" by Davina Reddic.]

5 out of 5 stars

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At first, I didn't quite grasp the concept of a psychological thriller, but after reading this book, I understand why people are drawn to this genre.

"The Awakening: What Lies Inside" by Davina Reddic feels like a rollercoaster ride, taking us through the ups and downs of a story that keeps you on the edge, eagerly anticipating what will happen next. The story begins with the dynamics between Em and her husband, James, delving into their romance. The relationships between Em and her parents, as well as her boss Barbara, are also explored at the outset. Barbara emerges as the antagonist, embodying a narcissistic individual who delights in disrupting the protagonist's life. The book adeptly portrays the protagonist's thought process and how she observes those around her. She grapples with her mental health issues, family trauma, inner demons, and the arrival of unwelcome individuals in her life.

Readers are immersed in Em's mindset, experiencing her insecurities towards Barbara and her neighbors, her feelings of resentment towards disruptive influences in her life, her anger, fear, guilt, and even her delusions. It's like being taken on a rollercoaster ride, following the protagonist's emotional dynamics without knowing where we'll end up. The unpredictability of the story's conclusion showcases the author's prowess in storytelling. The book strongly addresses mental health issues, exposing readers to potentially triggering situations. This is due to the author's skillful portrayal of the protagonist's experiences.

The book has flawless editing, a fast pace, and a thrilling plot that keeps you eagerly awaiting what happens next. I give this book a 5 out of 5 rating because of the author's ability to craft an unpredictable plot that kept me glued to the pages. The mind-blowing plot twists left me stunned and even more impressed with this excellent work.

As for drawbacks, the book touches on themes that I find triggering and require maturity to comprehend. Themes such as alcohol, adultery, delusions, suicidal thoughts, explicit sexual scenes, narcissistic personalities, and murder are present. The author wisely includes trigger warnings at the beginning, which I appreciate as it prepares readers for the content ahead. This book has become one of my favorites in the psychological thriller genre, demonstrating that such themes can be approached in an innovative manner. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy stories with impactful moral lessons.

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The Awakening
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Harshitha G B · Post by **Harshitha G B** » 06 May 2024, 13:38

The thrillers are always hit or miss kind, either it will haunt us with lasting feel it hunt us with expected or silly plot. The book cover is definitely falls under category,by looking at your review I feel it's gripping story which may leave lasting feel and thanks for the cautions to potential reader's about book.

Sandre Lamar · Post by **Sandre Lamar** » 06 May 2024, 16:23

I found myself emotionally invested in the character’s journey.

Post by **Stephen Christopher 1** » 06 May 2024, 20:27

I love psychological thrillers, and none of the things you mentioned are triggers for me, so I'm going to enjoy this rollercoaster ride of a book. Thanks for introducing it to me.

Post by **Do Thi Huong** » 06 May 2024, 23:45

I like books that really delve into a character's psyche and psychology, so this seems like the right one for me. The intricacies of the human mind are both complex and fascinating to explore. Thanks for the great review.

Tomi Ahmed · Post by **Tomi Ahmed** » 07 May 2024, 11:57

This review beautifully captures the essence of "The Awakening: What Lies Inside" by Davina Reddic. The rollercoaster of emotions, intricate character dynamics, and the adept handling of mental health themes are all highlighted with eloquence. Your appreciation for the author's skill in crafting an unpredictable plot and the inclusion of trigger warnings reflects a thoughtful analysis. Overall, it's a compelling endorsement for readers seeking a riveting psychological thriller with depth and maturity.

Muhammad Haikal Birton · Post by **Muhammad Haikal Birton** » 07 May 2024, 21:56

What a thrilling review This book seems to have taken you on a wild ride, keeping you on the edge of your seat with its unpredictable plot twists and emotional rollercoaster.

Emily Astillberry · Post by **Emily Astillberry** » 08 May 2024, 01:04

What a great review. This isn't usually my sort of book but the enthusiasm of the reviewer may have just changed my mind. I'm itching to start reading it right away!

João Ramos · Post by **João Ramos** » 08 May 2024, 12:07

The book seems to be very dense and exciting. It's incredible how destructive narcissistic individuals can be. I liked your review, Tomy.
That's the way to go.

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:46

Harshitha Nayak wrote: ↑06 May 2024, 13:38 The thrillers are always hit or miss kind, either it will haunt us with lasting feel it hunt us with expected or silly plot. The book cover is definitely falls under category,by looking at your review I feel it's gripping story which may leave lasting feel and thanks for the cautions to potential reader's about book.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and attention in reading my writings. I'm glad to help people have a better reading experience with detailed explanations.

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:47

Sandre Lamar wrote: ↑06 May 2024, 16:23 I found myself emotionally invested in the character’s journey.

Yes. This is a long ride of rollercoaster with a lot of unexpected turn and plot twist.

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:48

Stephen Christopher 1 wrote: ↑06 May 2024, 20:27 I love psychological thrillers, and none of the things you mentioned are triggers for me, so I'm going to enjoy this rollercoaster ride of a book. Thanks for introducing it to me.

Thank you for your reply. I believe introducing great literature through writing reviews is important because as part of the indie publishing ecosystem, we need to help advance independent authors.

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:49

Do Thi Huong wrote: ↑06 May 2024, 23:45 I like books that really delve into a character's psyche and psychology, so this seems like the right one for me. The intricacies of the human mind are both complex and fascinating to explore. Thanks for the great review.

Thank you for your reply. I believe providing balanced comments and responses is important for giving insight for fellow readers

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:50

Tomi Ahmed wrote: ↑07 May 2024, 11:57 This review beautifully captures the essence of "The Awakening: What Lies Inside" by Davina Reddic. The rollercoaster of emotions, intricate character dynamics, and the adept handling of mental health themes are all highlighted with eloquence. Your appreciation for the author's skill in crafting an unpredictable plot and the inclusion of trigger warnings reflects a thoughtful analysis. Overall, it's a compelling endorsement for readers seeking a riveting psychological thriller with depth and maturity.

Certainly! "Expressing balanced comments and responses is crucial, especially within the indie publishing ecosystem, as it contributes to the advancement of independent authors."

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 08 May 2024, 12:52

Muhammad Haikal Birton wrote: ↑07 May 2024, 21:56 What a thrilling review This book seems to have taken you on a wild ride, keeping you on the edge of your seat with its unpredictable plot twists and emotional rollercoaster.

absolutely! I agree with many of your insights; it's indeed well-crafted and satisfyingly unpredictable. Thank you for articulating your thoughts. It's wonderful to find your enthusiasm in this great piece of literature