Member Reviews
I’m always excited for a new Helen Fields book! The plot/set up of this story was refreshingly unique. It grabbed me right from the beginning. As the story progressed, however, I felt it was quite repetitive for me. I also found it became more unrealistic as the story entered the last phase. I’ll still continue to read her books and hopefully the next one will pick up where we left off with DI Callanch!
I can highly recommend this cleverly plotted and at times dark thriller. I devoured the book incredibly quickly even though I didn’t want it to finish. Certainly this has to be one of the top books of the year.
Yet another 5* read from an accomplished author who never fails to deliver. She has the ability to continually stretch the boundaries of psychological thrillers with a terrifying mirror on the future of AI , Disturbing content becomes acceptable and believable when the storyline is driven by three dimensional characters who face chilling choices in their effort to do the right thing balancing the knock on results which will effectively damage their ability to survive the consequences. The two protagonists named Midnight and Dawn reflected for me the dark reality of true evil fighting the forces of goodness. This book is a terrifying battle between light and dark in a compelling fight for supremacy. Many thanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.
I've become a devoted fan of Helen Fields' work since I discovered and devoured the DI Callanach series and her stand-alone books. I eagerly anticipated reading Profile K, which did not disappoint! It is a Masterpiece.!!! This compulsively dark and taut novel delivers with its horrificly violent and disturbing murders, presenting a gripping and dark narrative. The Killer is depicted as genuinely depraved and unsettling, making this book a spine-chilling read— unsuitable for the faint-hearted. From the opening chapter to the final page, it's a fast-paced and intense novel that kept me immersed from the beginning until the end, and It had me squirming on the edge of my seat and my heart racing.
Helen Fields shines through in her character development, which is a hallmark of her writing. The characters are fully developed, flawed, likeable and distinct, quickly drawing me into their lives. Fields has a talent for creating realistic and compelling characters, making them relatable and with whom readers can empathize.
In addition to the riveting corporate corruption and murder scenes, the narrative delves into Midnight Jones' relationship with her twin sister, Dawn, their absentee parents, and her unconditional love for her sister, regardless of the demanding responsibility she has had for most of her life. The emotional depth adds a poignant layer to the narrative, making it difficult not to be affected by their difficult circumstances. Doris, who brings much-needed light relief, becomes a beacon of hope when she befriends Jones and Dawn. Her presence adds a touch of warmth to the story, balancing the darker elements.
One of the strengths of Fields' character development is evident in Jones, the heroine. While some heroines' decisions may seem impractical and questionable in some thrillers, Jones' motivations are clear and validated. Fields' detailed character development allowed me to empathize with Jones and understand her deep concern and decision to become deeply involved in solving the serial killings in her community, even at the risk of her safety and others.
The portrayal of the technology company Necto is so vivid it almost feels like a character in itself. This depiction adds a layer of complexity to the story, highlighting corporate entities' impact on individuals and society. This aspect of the novel serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of our increasingly tech-driven world. It reminds me of the consequences that powerful technological corporations can cause worldwide if they go unchecked. It is genuinely terrifying.
Overall, Profile K stands out as a brilliant thriller that offers a unique and gripping concept that sets it apart from other novels in the genre. Fields' skillful storytelling, compelling characters, and intricate plot development kept me fully invested and flipping the pages until 5:00 a.m. I highly recommend you read this book. Be forewarned you may wake up with a book hangover, which isn't a bad thing.
I want to thank NetGalley and Avon Books UK for allowing me to read the ADC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile K is going to be my number 1 book of the year I feel like. This book started off with a bang! It had me flipping through the pages. I currently have a teething 8 month and should be napping when they nap. But that’s how truly wonderfully written this riveting thriller is. You cannot put it down. I had heard a review of this book that stated “Do not read if you live alone.” TRUTH. This book had me checking my door locks and windows. It had me feeling “watched” sitting in my own home. This book had my pulse racing and made me feel like I was watching a horror/thriller movie in my head. This was the first book I have read from this author and immediately went back and put all her backlog o. My wishlist and even bought some. That to me is a wonderful book. Well done Mrs Fields, this book was hands down my top read of the year. Thank you Avon books and NetGalley for the chance to read this amazing arc.
Profile K is going to be my number 1 book of the year I feel like. This book started off with a bang! It had me flipping through the pages. I currently have a teething 8 month and should be napping when they nap. But that’s how truly wonderfully written this riveting thriller is. You cannot put it down. I had heard a review of this book that stated “Do not read if you live alone.” TRUTH. This book had me checking my door locks and windows. It had me feeling “watched” sitting in my own home. This book had my pulse racing and made me feel like I was watching a horror/thriller movie in my head. This was the first book I have read from this author and immediately went back and put all her backlog o. My wishlist and even bought some. That to me is a wonderful book. Well done Mrs Fields, this book was hands down my top read of the year. Thank you Avon books and NetGalley for the chance to read this amazing arc.
What have I just read?! Profile K is so so original! I loved it. I also want to know what goes on in Helen Field's mind that she's capable of coming up with such a brilliantly twisted story. Absolute kudos to her.
The story is intense, gripping, creepy, full of tension and unexpected twists and turns. It's just so good! It gets a bit graphic in places so it's definitely not for the faint-hearted thouigh.
I really liked the lead character, Midnight Jones. There's certain vulnerability to her but also strenghth and willingness to do right regardless of what the cost might be to her. I loved her relationship with her sister, the obvious tenderness and love that's there.
Also, can we mention Doris? Doris is one of those characters who you just want to be friends with and have them in your life. Doris rules for sure.
Well-written, intriguing and original, Profile K is a must read for fans of dark and twisted thrillers. Highly recommended.
Wow! There's so much I want to say but without letting any spoilers slip. Midnight Jones works for a biotech company that screens applicants for clients/privately and almost psychoanalyse them. Midnight comes across a 'Profile K', a 'joke' code for killer, and finds herself needing to know who it is and warn people; ultimately placing herself into Profile K's sight.
Helen Fields starts off strong in the first chapter of this book, with a grim murder that sets the stage for the whole book. It's not for the faint hearted, I have never read something that made me feel so nauseous but intent on reading on, but it's a mind-blowing twisty thriller with plenty of gore, science and 'hold your breath' tension. I enjoyed the uniqueness of the killers chapters where you get a feel for their personal lives and mentality, and almost felt sorry for him.
Join Midnight make new friends, hear her backstory, and investigate the first 'Profile K'.
Thank you to Avon Books UK and Helen Fields for approving my review request through NetGalley.
Helen Fields adds another great plot to her list of fantastic writing! Profile K was superbly written and had me on the edge of my seat. Descriptive scenes had me wincing, and at times I was on travelling on the tube, so lord knows what people thought I was reading!
However, I didn’t love Profile K as much as I have done her other books. But, that’s not to take away how much I enjoyed it and gave it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ on Goodreads.
"Profile K" by Helen Fields is a gripping thriller that had me on the edge of my seat from the very first chapter.
Midnight Jones, an analyst trained to understand the human mind, discovers Profile K's file, realizing he's a killer before he even strikes. As the tension builds with each turn of the page, Midnight becomes his next target, racing against time to stop him. The storyline is captivating, filled with descriptive scenes and unexpected twists. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself rooting for them throughout.
With its dark and gripping narrative, "Profile K" is a must-read for fans of the crime fiction genre.
I highly recommend it to anyone that loves twisted and addictive thrillers
Very grateful to the publisher for this copy, opinions are my own
Profile K is exactly what I love about a Helen Fields book - an original angle, an interesting serial killer, a mysterious illness, and great conversations around profiling. Oh, and a cameo from a certain character who I always like to see make an appearance!
Fields is a fantastic crime writer. Although Midnight isn't any kind of detective, she wants to work this case out and her suspicions lead her on a cat and mouse chase of a potential serial killer. It's a very tense journey with a lot of quick developments, taking you on a real thrill ride of shocking twists, dark crimes, and sheer panic.
Midnight is also a great character. As an analyst trained to understand the human mind, there's an almost A Clockwork Orange twist to the story, seeing what level of violence triggers certain reactions in the participants and, therefore, getting a feel for what kind of person they are. And I love getting that kind of insight into somebody's mind. It's a slightly futuristic concept so it does need taking with a slight pinch of salt, but it does all eventually make sense and work in the wider context of the story.
And then there's the serial killer himself. I couldn't understand the link of his actions and what was going on at Midnight's workplace at first because it didn't seem to make sense in my head. But it all comes together brilliantly, and I love it when Fields brings to light a unique illness that sparks a killer's impulses.
Overall, an exceptional thriller from one of my favourite writers, so definitely one you need to add to your TBR!
I'm on the blog tour on the 5th so my review will be live then
Wow! Completely gripping with a fantastic plot 👏🏻
Midnight Jones’s only priority is caring for her disabled twin sister, Dawn. Alongside her job as a profiler for Necto there is no time for anything else.
When Midnight analyses an applicant’s profile and the result is Profile K, she takes it straight to the top where she is told that K for Killer was just thrown in for a joke; nobody is twisted enough to actually score at that level - and then Midnight is moved to a different department. Young women are being murdered in the neighbourhood and Profile K has their report that states it was assessed by Midnight J.
I loved everything about this book; the writing style, the pace, the brilliant plot, the twists and the character development.
Midnight is a loyal and strong young woman and I admired her strength and grit.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Helen Fields and Avon for an ARC in return for an honest review.
I would like to thank NetGalley for the ARC of Profile K by Helen Fields in return for my honest review.
Helen Fields is one of those authors that never disappoints, Profile K is her latest standalone and in my opinion her best yet, it is a really well written fast paced thriller with the added bonus of a really likeable and relatable main character Midnight Jones. Profile K had me hooked from the start till the end I highly recommend reading.
Profile K is my first Helen Fields novel. The idea was original and I just had to read it after seeing it reviewed highly over my social media. It was an interesting story of what appears to be the first in a new series. My favourite character was Doris - we all know a Doris. Can see this developed for the big screen
I've been a devoted fan of Helen Fields' work ever since I devoured all seven books in the DI Callanach/DCI Ava Turner series. Naturally, I was eagerly anticipating Profile K, and it did not disappoint! This thrilling, dark, and intense novel delivers with its horrific, violent, and gruesome murders, presenting a gripping and dark narrative. The Killer is depicted as truly disturbed, making this book a chilling read not suited for the faint-hearted. From the opening chapter to the final page, Profile K is a fast-paced and intense novel that kept me engrossed throughout.
Helen Fields' mastery shines through in her character development, a hallmark of her writing. The characters in Profile K are not only fully developed but also extremely likable, and I was quickly drawn into their lives. Fields has a talent for creating relatable and compelling characters, making them feel like real people with whom readers can empathize.
In addition to the riveting crime and murder scenes, the narrative delves into Midnight Jones’ relationship with her twin sister Dawn, their absent parents, and the immense responsibility Jones has shouldered for most of her their lives. This emotional depth adds a poignant layer to the narrative, making it difficult not to be affected by their circumstances. Doris, a character who brings much-needed light relief, becomes a beacon of hope when she befriends Jones and Dawn. Her presence adds a touch of warmth to the story, balancing the darker elements.
One of the strengths of Fields' character development is evident in Jones, the protagonist. While in some thrillers, the decisions of protagonists may seem questionable, Jones' motivations are clear and understandable. Fields' meticulous character development allowed me to empathize with Jones and comprehend her decision to become deeply involved in solving the serial killings, even at the risk of her own life.
The portrayal of the technology company Necto is so vivid it almost feels like a character in the novel. This depiction adds a layer of complexity to the story, highlighting the impact that corporate entities can have on individuals and society as a whole. This aspect of the novel serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the implications of our increasingly technology-driven world, and left me to ponder the consequences of unchecked technological progress.
Overall, Profile K stands out as a brilliant thriller, and offers a unique and gripping concept that sets it apart from other novels in the genre. Fields' skillful storytelling, compelling characters, and intricate plot development kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for allowing me to read this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Midnight Jones (great name!) works as a profiler for a biotech company, her job is to analyse their applicants and assess their suitability for roles. She isn't enjoying her job, but the pay is good and due to a difficult home life as the primary carer for her profoundly disabled twin sister, she needs the money. But when a profile K appears to come across her desk, she is concerned that she has just identified a killer and they may now turn their attention to her.
This was a great thriller. With some dark and disturbing scenes it is not for the squeamish, but it was gripping nonetheless and Midnightcwas a great character.
Wow! What an opening first chapter, heart pumping as you read, it’s so tense. I couldn’t read it fast enough. I was totally hooked, quickly turning the pages to find out what’s going to happen. Just brilliant.
Midnight Jones is an analyst trained to understand the human mind. But everything changes when she discovers Profile K’s file – because K stands for killer, and Midnight knows what Profile K is capable of before he even commits his first crime. As news arrives with the brutal murder of a local woman, no one believes what she tells them: that he is capable of so much worse. Profile K will kill again – and, terrifyingly, Midnight realises that the moment she found his file was the moment she became his next target. Because Profile K is coming for Midnight – and the only way to escape with her life is to find him before he finds her…
I absolutely loved #ProfileK. It has a captivating storyline which is very descriptive and has some gory scenes. There are plenty of twists and turns you don’t see coming.
It’s brilliantly written with great characters. I loved the relationship Midnight had with her twin sister Dawn. It’s just so beautiful. I also loved Doris.
Overall, an engrossing page turning dark gripping crime fiction. A must read if you enjoy this genre. Definitely recommend. I look forward to reading more from @helenfields_author
With thanks to #NetGallery @AvonBooks for an arc of #ProfileK in exchange for a honest review.
Book publishes 25 April 2024.
What if you uncover a psychopath as you go about your job? What if the psychopath knows you have discovered them? This is essentially the premise of Profile K. Midnight Jones works for a company as a profiler, coding assessments which reveal if a candidate is suitable for a university course. All is well, until she comes across a profile K - someone with no empathetic or disgust response to extreme violence. Who in fact seems to enjoy what they have seen. Soon, women in the local area are being killed in the most extreme of ways. When no one listens to Midnight, how far is she prepared to find profile K and prevent another death?
Whilst I enjoyed reading this book, my lasting impression is that it’s a little unbalanced so that the overall effect isn’t as brilliant as it could be.
What is done well in Profile K, is our villain. They are as sick and dangerous as you would want from a fictional serial killer. The tension the reader feels as they are drip fed information about the killer, is written really effectively. However, other parts of setting aren’t as good. As other readers have said, Midnight’s tenacity at investigating her profile K is at odds with all we are told about how protective she is to her sister. This disparity makes the plot feel less believable. It’s also hard to credit the complete change of personality the policeman undergoes. I really like the idea of a dystopian sinister tech company but I felt like this aspect of the plot was written quite superficially. I was still craving more detail and a satisfying outcome at the end of the book.
It’s a creepy, grisly thriller that fans of the genre should enjoy, but it’s not a book I think will stick with me or stand out in the year’s reading.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to review an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
✨Spolier Free Review✨
This book blew my mind with its exceptional quality. Kudos to the author for penning such an impressive novel. Its unique storyline and engaging writing style reminded me of John Marrs' books, specifically 'The One' and 'The Marriage Act'. The author's ability to keep the story fresh and exciting without repetition is commendable. I found myself completely absorbed in the book and couldn't put it down. This book is a definite contender for one of my top 10 reads of the year.
Synopsis-
He’s going to kill you. He just doesn’t know it yet. There’s something wrong with me. For years I’ve hidden it. Suppressed it. Blended into society. But The Test awoke something within me. It was just a routine application designed to get to know me better – with results that would show me everything I was capable of. But it showed me that the wickedness is still inside me – and that I am capable of the worst possible things. And now that I know that, there’s no telling what I’ll do next…
This will be available April 25th 2024, add it to your tbr right now besties.
Thank you @netgalley @avonbooks and @helenfields for this advanced copy.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #AvonBooksUK for the book #ProfileK by #HelenFields. This book is crazy. And I loved it. Without giving too much away, so many murders at the hands of people that know better. You have got to read this book!