Witness X is a fabulous debut by hugely talented new author S.E. Moorhead. It reminded me a little of the JD Robb futuristic series I’m such a fan of but with a realistic twist that felt very relatable throughout. It’s protagonist, Kyra Sullivan, is a flawed but likeable individual and her determination to make a success of the technology she’s created for the greater good of the general population made me feel incredibly proud of her for standing up for what she believes in.

Set in the near future (far enough away for new technology but not too far so that the plot seems too fantastic) Witness X sees Kyra using a new technology she has invented in order to enter the minds of witnesses so as to find out the truth about a series of murders. A man has been sentenced to jail for the killings but was the right person convicted? Kyra has a deeply personal connection to the case so she’s probably too close to make unbiased, informed decisions and when it looks like she’s the only one able to find a devious murderer, Kyra makes some very questionable choices!

This is a very dark and often disturbing thriller that reminded me at times of a film called The Cell staring Jennifer Lopez. It had the same stylish effects and conjured up a similar feeling of helplessness, of being trapped within someone else’s persona. And I have to admit to feeling as physically sick as Kyra did after each session. The tension it created was often unbearable especially as the narrative also explored the deeply disturbing insights into what was happening to the killers latest victim. So when that personal connection with Kyra reaches breaking point, the events threaten to overwhelm both the characters and the reader…

I thoroughly enjoyed being able to experience Witness X! It mirrored its plot line perfectly by pushing its way into my own thoughts with its violent scenarios and terrifying antagonists, leaving its own aftershocks from the past echoing around my mind long after I’d finished it. It’s a book to make you feel uncomfortable and voyeuristic and maybe not one to read on your own in a dark room! An horrific crime thriller with a difference that I can highly recommend.