Title: The Fear
Author: C.L. Taylor
ISBN: 9780008118099
Publisher: Harper Collins / Avon
Pages: 400
Source: Private Copy
Lou Smith is used to being headline news as, aged seventeen, she ran away with her 37-year-old teacher, Mike, during a short-lived affair.
Now 32, Lou’s life is in tatters – and she resolves to return home to confront Mike for the damage he has caused. But she soon finds that Mike is unchanged, and is now grooming a young 15-year-old girl called Chloe.
Determined to make sure that history doesn’t repeat itself, Lou decides to take matters into her own hands. But Mike is a predator of the worst kind, and as she tries to bring him to justice, it’s clear that Lou could once again become his prey…
Official Summary
12 August 2024
This story is a gripping, psychological thriller that digs into the dark and disturbing world of predatory relationships and the lasting impact they have on their victims. Taylor’s storytelling is both gripping and thought-provoking, making this book a compelling read from start to finish.
The protagonist, Lou Smith, is introduced as a woman haunted by her past. At fifteen, she ran away with her 37-year-old teacher, Mike, an experience that left indelible scars. Now, at 32, Lou’s life is in disarray and she returns home with the singular goal of confronting Mike and holding him accountable for the damage he inflicted on her.
Taylor’s portrayal of Lou is both sympathetic and complex. Lou is a character driven by a mix of anger, guilt and a desire for justice. Her resolve to stop Mike from grooming another young girl, Chloe, is portrayed with a sense of urgency and desperation. Taylor skillfully captures Lou’s internal struggle, balancing her need for retribution with the fear of falling back into Mike’s manipulative grasp.
The narrative is tense and fast-paced, with Taylor building suspense as Lou’s plan to expose Mike unfolds. The stakes are high and the danger feels real and immediate. Taylor’s depiction of Mike as an unrepentant predator adds to the chilling atmosphere. He is a character who embodies manipulation and menace, making Lou’s quest for justice all the more risky.
I enjoyed this story’s exploration of the psychological impact of abuse. Taylor doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional and mental toll on Lou, making her quest for justice not just a physical confrontation, but also a battle with her demons. This adds a layer of realism to the story, making Lou’s journey both distressing and inspiring. The secondary characters, particularly Chloe, are well-developed and integral to the plot. Chloe’s plight mirrors Lou’s past, creating a sad parallel that underscores the importance of Lou’s mission. The interactions between Lou and Chloe are some of the most compelling moments in the book, highlighting themes of resilience, solidarity, and empowerment.
“The Fear” is a powerful and engaging thriller that doesn’t just entertain, but also sheds light on important issues. C.L. Taylor’s storytelling and character development make this book a brilliant read. It’s a story about confronting the past, seeking justice, and ultimately finding strength in the face of fear. For fans of psychological thrillers, “The Fear” is a must-read that will leave you on the edge of your seat and deeply moved by Lou’s courageous journey.
Also by C.J. Taylor
THE LIE
I know your name’s not really Jane Hughes…
Jane Hughes has a loving partner, a job in an animal sanctuary and a tiny cottage in rural Wales. She’s happier than she’s ever been but her life is a lie. Jane Hughes does not really exist.
Five years earlier Jane and her then best friends went on holiday but what should have been the trip of a lifetime rapidly descended into a nightmare that claimed the lives of two of the women.
Jane has tried to put her past behind her but someone knows the truth about what happened. Someone who won’t stop until they’ve destroyed Jane and everything she loves.
About the Author
Author bio from the author’s site
Cally Taylor was born in Worcester and spent her early years living in various army camps in the UK and Germany. She studied Psychology at the University of Northumbria and went on forge a career in instructional design and e-learning before leaving to write full-time in 2014.
She started writing short stories in 2005 and was published widely in literary and women’s magazines. She also won several short story competitions. In 2009 and 2011 her romantic comedy novels (as Cally Taylor) were published by Orion and translated into fourteen languages. HEAVEN CAN WAIT was a bestseller in Hungary and China and HOME FOR CHRISTMAS was made into a feature film by JumpStart Productions. Whilst on maternity leave with her son Cally had an idea for a psychological thriller and turned to crime.
She lives in Bristol with her partner and young son.
I discovered this book on my TBR shelf, but I have no memory of when or where I found it. It’s probably been sitting there for ages, or maybe I’m just getting forgetful. This is my first experience with this author, but I loved the book and will be searching for more of her work. If you’re a fan, let me know which of her books is your favourite by leaving a comment below. As always, thank you for visiting—your support is much appreciated. Until next time… Happy Reading!
