The Boatmore Butcher by L. Stephenson

Release: September 1, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: ‎ Dark Ink Books
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B & N

Three paramedics are drawn into the mystery of a bizarre spree unfolding on a quiet island town.

Devastated by the loss of his son, Liam Price, must hold it together whilst leading his team against a killer who finds new and twisted ways to prevent them from saving the lives of their victims.

But one serious mistake puts them and everyone they love in grave danger.

As the island starts to slip into hysteria, our villain goes to gruesome lengths to keep their identity a secret.

Able to hide in plain sight, the killer is out for revenge as they close in on their prey.

Can they escape the wrath of the Boatmore Butcher?

About the Author:

L. Stephenson has been telling stories of killers and boogeymen to his friends and writing them on his computer since the summer before he began high school.

A university degree in Film & TV Screenwriting, a handful of anthologies and a novella later, and not much has changed, it seems!

Dark Ink back in 2018 published Stephenson’s first short story as part of a Halloween-themed collection. Nearly five years later, terror just came full circle as the author has returned home to Dark Ink to release his debut slasher novel, The Boatmore Butcher.

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The Boatmore Butcher Review:

I grew up immersing myself in the works of Stephen King, including titles like “Needful Things” and “The Tommyknockers.” In these novels, the author masterfully welcomed readers into the intricate community of Maine, skillfully portraying how each character grappled with the sinister presence that loomed over them.

Reading “The Boatmore Butcher” evoked a similar sense of captivation, and I commend the author for a remarkable debut. The narrative is replete with riveting, unexpected moments, from the very outset with Jaime to the spine-tingling scenes within the lighthouse. The author keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating the killer’s next move. I wholeheartedly rooted for Liam (and the town) as he wrestled with the complex emotions ignited by the unfolding events.

Speaking of Liam, the author artfully explores themes of grief, trauma, and the intricate process of coping with loss. The story artfully underscores the formidable challenges of moving forward and how individuals grapple with personal tragedy. Liam and Ally’s endeavors to navigate their grief and rekindle their connection take center stage, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the nuances of their relationship. Their journey, marked by both ups and downs, is truly the heart of the narrative. On a side note, I also found Quinn and Wendy’s storyline. The author also exhibits a knack for leaving readers in suspense at the end of each chapter, generating an enticing sense of chaos and uncertainty.

If I were to offer constructive criticism, it would be that, at times, the story introduces many characters, making it occasionally challenging to discern their connections. Additionally, while the occasional ‘dream sequences’ can heighten suspense, there might have been an excess in the narrative.

Nevertheless, I thoroughly relished my experience with “The Boatmore Butcher” and eagerly anticipate further works from this talented author.