When a killer murders, it isn't just the victim who dies. Those related, and those who investigate are deeply affected too. And the ripples of that act forever live on.

As Michael Wood fantastically explores in his standalone story The Seventh Victim.

A story that starts with a man attempting to lure a young boy away from an empty playground. But luckily his mum arrives in time to stop the abduction and with the help of two teachers is able to keep the man subdued until the police arrive. What she and the police don't know is this man is a serial killer, one of Britain's most prolific and his secret is about to come to light.

However, that's only the beginning of this story. As for one parent (Diane) her nightmare is only just beginning as her sons remains are never found and the killer won't reveal where he is buried.

Until twenty-five years later he dies...

Only what he tells her is the last thing Diane ever imagined she'd hear. But what if this master manipulator and killer is finally telling the truth?

And as Diane, the detective who caught him and a journalist who wrote a bestselling true crime story about him team up. Secrets are unearthed, and answers are found.

But are they the ones Diane wants? And will Zachery ever finally be found?

And with such an intriguing storyline. Not to mention Michael's signature shocks, twists and turns. This was a story that had me hooked and one I couldn't stop reading. And I would genuinely happily recommend it to all.

My thanks to One More Chapter and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Seventh Victim. 😊