Title: You’d Look Better As A Ghost
Author: Joanna Wallace
ISBN: 978 1800 8113 00
Publisher: Viper Books
Pages: 336
Source: Jonathan Ball Publishers
I have a gift. I see people as ghosts before they die.
Of course, it helps that I’m the one killing them.
The night after her father’s funeral, Claire meets Lucas in a bar. Lucas doesn’t know it, but it’s not a chance meeting. One thoughtless mistyped email has put him in the crosshairs of an extremely put-out serial killer. But before they make eye contact, before Claire lets him buy her a drink, even before she takes him home and carves him up into little pieces, something about that night is very wrong. Because someone is watching Claire. Someone who is about to discover her murderous little hobby.
The thing is, it’s not sensible to tangle with a part-time serial killer, even one who is distracted by attending a weekly bereavement support group and trying to get her art career off the ground. Let the games begin…
Official Summary
25 October 2023
Since Alicia has introduced me to books like Finlay Donovan, I have been keeping an eye out for anything that would make me laugh. This book left me laughing out loud more than once. This Debut novel is a brilliant read you do not want to miss.
“You’d Look Better as a Ghost” is a dark and intriguing read that invites you into the disturbing world of Claire, a unique and chilling protagonist with a gruesome secret. The book’s captivating premise makes it a gripping and unforgettable read.
The story starts with the revelation of Claire’s chilling gift – she sees people as ghosts before they die and she is the one responsible for their demise. This revelation immediately sets the tone for a story that’s bound to be filled with suspense and depth. Claire’s character is shrouded in darkness and the author did a marvellous job painting a complex portrait of a serial killer with a seemingly ordinary life. Claire’s ability to come across as both relatable and unsettling is a testament to the author’s skill.
The encounter between Claire and Lucas at a bar is a turning point in the story, setting events of the story into motion. The author creates a sense of foreboding and tension right from the beginning, keeping you on the edge of your seat. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Lucas is not the only one with a secret; someone is watching Claire and this revelation introduces an additional layer of suspense.
One of the book’s strengths is the author’s ability to maintain a sense of intrigue and unpredictability. As Claire navigates the challenges of attending a bereavement support group and striving to establish herself as an artist, you become immersed in her complex world, torn between empathy and repulsion. The contrast of her mundane, everyday life with her horrific secret adds depth to her character and keeps you guessing about her motivation and actions. While this character is a disturbed young woman, you see an unexpected side that makes her relatable. I found myself rooting for Claire all the way.
The cat-and-mouse game that unfolds between Claire and the person who discovers her secret is a thrilling aspect of the story. The author builds tension as the stakes get higher and the suspense escalates while adding just enough humour to maintain a light, enjoyable reading experience. The psychological battle leaves you wondering who will emerge victorious in this dark and deadly game.
Throughout the story, the author delves into themes of obsession, secrets and the blurred lines between sanity and madness. Joanna Wallace has an engaging and vivid writing style, allowing you to connect with the characters and experience the story’s intensity with a smile on your face.
This book is a dark and compelling read that takes you on a chilling journey into the mind of a uniquely disturbed protagonist. This book is unsettling and captivating and the story’s suspense will keep you engrossed from start to end. If you are looking for a book that explores the depths of human darkness with some humour added to the mix, then this is a must-read for you!
Joanna Wallace studied law at Birmingham University before working as a commercial litigation solicitor in London, during which time she represented litigants in many fascinating cases and became remarkably proficient at unjamming photocopiers.
Her debut novel You’d Look Better as A Ghost will be published by Viper in September 2023. The screen production rights have been optioned by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group.
Joanna lives near London with her husband, four children and two dogs, and is currently working on her second novel.
While this book centres on a dark theme and includes some graphic scenes, it manages to remain a light a very enjoyable book. Do not give this one a miss just because it sounds a little dark and creepy. It includes some brilliant humour. I do not laugh easily and this book had my family giving me amused looks as I could not resist laughing out loud!
Thank you to Jonathan Ball Publishers for this review copy – I cannot recommend this book highly enough. As soon as Alicia has finished her exams, I will be passing this to her to review as well.
Thank you for visiting, I look forward to hearing what you think of this book.
