**The Dark Hours** by **Amy Jordan** is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers on edge with its twists, tension, and emotional depth. This novel offers a thrilling exploration of trauma, revenge, and justice while diving into the complexities of its characters' psyches. Combining elements of mystery, suspense, and psychological drama, *The Dark Hours* explores the fragility of the human mind and the fine line between right and wrong.

### Plot Overview:
The story centers on **Harper**, a woman living in a small, quiet town. Harper has recently come back home after a long absence, looking to start fresh after a traumatic incident in her past. She’s trying to rebuild her life, though the scars—both physical and emotional—remain.

As Harper settles back into her old routine, strange and unsettling things begin to happen. It becomes clear that someone is watching her, and soon, she realizes that the shadow of her past is far from gone. The tension mounts as Harper must confront not only the mystery of these occurrences but also the dark secrets she thought she had buried forever.

As the plot unfolds, the line between victim and perpetrator begins to blur. The reader is taken on a journey through Harper's fragile mental state as she grapples with the truth about her own past actions and how they tie into the present-day mystery. The tension ramps up as Harper uncovers more clues that lead her to question who she can trust, and whether her mind is playing tricks on her or if there is truly a sinister force at work.

### Character Development:
Harper is a deeply complex and flawed protagonist, which makes her both relatable and, at times, unreliable. Her emotional and psychological struggles are at the core of the narrative, and the reader’s understanding of her motives, fears, and vulnerabilities evolves throughout the story.

At the start, Harper appears as a sympathetic character—someone who has endured hardship and is simply trying to find peace. However, as the layers of her past are revealed, it becomes clear that there is much more to her than meets the eye. The psychological complexity of her character is fascinating, and readers will find themselves questioning her reliability as a narrator, especially as the story becomes more tangled and intense.

Secondary characters are also well-developed, adding depth to the plot. From potential allies to suspicious figures, the characters around Harper contribute to the web of mystery and the overall feeling of unease that pervades the novel. Their relationships with Harper—some supportive, some antagonistic—play a pivotal role in both her emotional journey and the unfolding of the mystery.

### Writing Style:
Amy Jordan’s writing is taut and atmospheric, effectively capturing the psychological tension at the heart of the novel. Her prose is sharp, and she has a gift for creating a chilling atmosphere that enhances the suspense. The pacing is deliberate, building toward the eventual twists with a sense of mounting dread and intrigue.

Jordan uses short, punchy sentences to create urgency, particularly during the more suspenseful moments. The narrative is both intimate and eerie, pulling the reader into Harper’s troubled mind while also providing enough external action and mystery to keep things moving. The psychological thriller elements are well-executed, keeping the reader questioning the truth of what’s happening until the very end.

### Themes:
1. **Trauma and its Aftermath**: A central theme of *The Dark Hours* is trauma—both in terms of the psychological impact it has on the victim and how it can affect the people around them. Harper’s journey is one of trying to cope with past events that continue to haunt her, and the novel explores how difficult it can be to escape the psychological scars of trauma, especially when one is forced to confront them head-on.

2. **Memory and Perception**: Throughout the book, Harper’s unreliable narration raises questions about the accuracy of memory and the human tendency to manipulate or block out certain aspects of painful events. The theme of memory versus reality plays a large part in the suspense of the story, as Harper is forced to reckon with the possibility that her recollection of events may not be entirely trustworthy.

3. **Justice and Revenge**: The novel raises moral questions about justice, revenge, and whether the two can ever be truly separated. Harper is caught in a morally gray area where actions from her past have led to present-day consequences, and the line between justice and personal vengeance becomes increasingly blurred.

4. **Isolation and Trust**: As Harper becomes more entangled in the mystery and her own psychological turmoil, the theme of isolation emerges strongly. Her struggle with trust—both in others and herself—adds to the tension, and the novel explores how difficult it is to navigate a world where you feel alone and vulnerable, unable to fully trust those around you.

### Emotional Impact:
*The Dark Hours* is an emotionally intense read. The emotional weight of Harper’s journey, as well as the unraveling of her past, makes the story compelling and thought-provoking. The psychological tension is palpable, and there are moments of real emotional depth as Harper comes to terms with the choices she has made and the consequences they have had for her and those around her.

The ambiguity of Harper’s perception of events also creates an emotional rollercoaster for readers, as they are led to question not just the unfolding mystery but also the reliability of the character they are following. The novel’s emotional impact comes not only from the suspense but also from the way in which it forces readers to consider uncomfortable truths about human nature, justice, and the ability to forgive—or not.

### Final Thoughts:
*The Dark Hours* by Amy Jordan is a compelling psychological thriller that grips readers with its complex characters, tense atmosphere, and twisty plot. The novel excels at creating an unsettling atmosphere, and the psychological depth of its protagonist adds layers of intrigue and emotional resonance. It’s a story that keeps you guessing until the very end, with unexpected twists and a final revelation that is both satisfying and unsettling.

For fans of psychological thrillers that explore the darker aspects of the human mind and the consequences of past actions, *The Dark Hours* is a must-read. The novel’s exploration of trauma, memory, and justice, along with its strong character development and suspenseful plot, make it a standout in the genre. Amy Jordan’s skill in creating tension, both psychological and emotional, ensures that readers will be fully immersed in Harper’s story and will not easily forget the journey she takes.

Amy Jordan delivers an excellent debut with “The Dark Hour”. This gripping and propulsive police thriller kept my heart pounding from start to finish, immersing me in the shadowy corners of Cork where danger lurked at every turn. The parallel timelines—1994 and 2024—were masterfully executed, building tension without giving readers a moment to catch their breath.

One of the standout aspects of this novel was the protagonist, Julia Harte. Having an older female lead brought a refreshing perspective, and I found her particularly relatable, as I’ve also spent years navigating a male-dominated field. The contrast between the inexperienced Garda in 1994 and the seasoned, determined detective in 2024 added depth and satisfying character development.

However, my biggest critique is that the mystery felt too predictable. While the "why" remained elusive, I figured out the identity of the killers almost immediately, which took some of the suspense out of the narrative. Despite this, “The Dark Hour” excels in atmosphere, pacing, and its nuanced portrayal of trauma and resilience.

Amy Jordan is undoubtedly a promising voice in Irish crime fiction, and I look forward to seeing what she writes next.

The dual timeline worked well in this book and builds the suspense of two killers and two stories simultaneously. I enjoyed the twists of the book and liked Julia as a character

This book was brilliantly twisty and dark from the very first page! I loved the dual timeline and how they mirrored each other and seeing how the characters lifes were going etc. a fun, fast paced and high stakes read!

'The Dark Hours' is an impressive first novel told between two time periods, 1994 and 2024. Retired policewoman Juliet Harte is faced with the terrifying prospect of a copycat serial killer. It's a gripping, exciting plot with a great cast of well written characters. Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early read, one I am happy to recommend. Look forward to more from this author soon.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

The past has returned in the form of a copycat and Julia must revisit her old demons to help figure out why

What a brilliant debut. Just wow!
From the first pages it’s gripping, fast paced and suspenseful with a great storyline and likeable and believable characters, especially Julia and her dog Mutt. I loved the protagonist as an older woman. I couldn’t put this book down. It’s so addictive.
Told in dual timelines of Then 1994 and Today 2024. Retired detective Julia Harte receives a phone call from her old Superintendent about two women that have been murdered, just like in 1994. Julia returns to Cork to face a vicious killer and memories that haunt her.
It’s cleverly written, detailed and draws you right into the story. The best rollercoaster ride where the tension just keeps building with brilliant twists and an ending you don’t see coming and so full of emotions. I loved every second of it and I’m excited to read more from this author @amyjordanbooks.
A brilliant police procedural/crime fiction/thriller that’s so worth the read. Definitely recommend this one if you enjoy this genre.
With thanks to #NetGallery @hq @hqstories for an arc of #TheDarkHours in exchange for a honest review.
Book publishes 30 January 2025.

Told between two time periods, 1994 and 2024 Juliet Harte is faced with the terrifying prospect of a copycat serial killer. This time Julia isn't as young and inexperienced. She may be retired but she needs to help see this case through to the end, however it may end. A little slow to get going. This book then quickly picked up pace as clues begin to unravel and come together again. A few twists keep you on your toes too.

3.5 stars. The Dark Hours is an impressive debut. It’s well written, with intriguing plot, atmospheric settings and realistic characters.

The Dark Hours is a compelling and gripping thriller full of twists and turns. Set in two time periods, the novel moves along at a swift pace and is particularly good at building tension. I loved it. Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and the author for an opportunity to read and review and arc.

In 1994, Gardaí Julia Harte and Adrian Clancy are called out to investigate a noise complaint, only to be unprepared for what they find. Thirty years on, Julia – who has chosen to disappear – realises the same disturbing events are reoccurring.

A super thriller with two timelines. We have a serial killer and a copy-cat killer with 30 years between them. Retired Guarda detective, Julia Harte, is now living in a secluded area of Ireland with her dog. Now in her 60s, she is still haunted by the serial killer that she helped to catch in 1994 and so is relieved when she hears that he has died in prison. Then she receives a call from her old boss - a copy cat is following the serial killer’s playbook and so Julia returns to Cork. Told in 2 timelines - 1994 and 2024 - we see why this case had such an effect upon Julia, how much it cost her. The twists as she and her old boss try to find out who is copying the crimes of 30 years previous, and why is excellent and I did not guess the killer - the revelation was excellent. I found this well paced and full of suspense - in both timelines. I just had one petty little gripe - I got fed up with Julia constantly telly people - ‘call me Julia’. Petty I know, sorry, but overall a thoroughly enjoyable and suspenseful thriller.

Wow!! This is one of the best thrillers I’ve read in a while. I was gripped from the very start and the pace never let up; I did not want to put this down!

This is a dual timeline story, alternating between 1994 and 2024. Garda Julia Harte, along with her partner Adrian Clancy, attends a noise complaint in Cork in 1994 but what happens that evening haunts her for the rest of her life and had me as the reader gripped!! As we turn the pages, we see the story of a serial killer unfold in 1994 but we also follow Julia in the present as there appears to be a copycat killer on the loose in Cork. Is this revenge? Is what is happening in the present linked to Julia or are the police reading too much into the similarities and can Julia help before it’s too late for the latest missing girl?

This is an absolutely brilliant page turner and if you are a lover of crime novels, I would wholeheartedly recommend this one. I could have easily read it in one sitting it was that good (but couldn’t quite escape real life to be able to do that 😂).

I really enjoyed this compelling read, as debut novels go, it hooked me in right from the first chapter. The plot is quite intricate and well written, a serial killer and a copycat killer, with the dual timeline working really well. The characterisation is strong, especially Julia the retired detective and is quite believable. I was hooked from the first chapter right until the end. An easy 5* from me and a thriller I highly recommend to lovers of the genre. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

A well written debut with interesting main characters and believable back stories, but I didn't feel the author bought anything particularly new to the genre. However, I enjoyed the writing and look forward to her next novel
Thank you to netgalley and HQ for an advance copy of this book
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars

The Dark Hours by Amy Jordan is an enthralling read that brilliantly intertwines past and present mysteries. This novel set in Ireland links a case that Julia Harte faced as a Garda with desperate consequences in 1994 to a present-day investigation she’s been asked to consult on with her old boss.

The plotting is nothing short of brilliant, seamlessly connecting the two timelines and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The mysteries at the heart of both cases are intriguing and key to maintaining interest throughout the book. Amy Jordan’s skill in crafting these interwoven plots is commendable, ensuring a gripping read.

The characters and their dilemmas are well-developed, Julia is a particularly interesting and unique character and this adds depth to the story. Julia’s journey, both in her past and present, is compelling, and the interaction with her old boss adds an interesting dynamic. The personal and professional challenges they face are portrayed with nuance, keeping the reader engaged and invested in their outcomes.

Overall, The Dark Hours is a captivating novel that deserves four stars for its intricate plotting, engaging characters, and the seamless blend of past and present mysteries. It’s a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and crime fiction.

An intense crime thriller set over two timelines. The pace and storytelling were precise and absorbing and the characters impeccably written. Though I guessed the twist two thirds in, this novel was thought provoking and the author a welcome addition to the growing ranks of female Irish noir writers.

In 1994 Gardai Julia Harte and her garda partner Adrian Clancy were responding to a noise complaint late one night. They stumble onto a horrific scene and what happens next haunts Julie for the rest of her days. She will be forever afraid of the dark and suffer nightmares, waking at night in terror. The case they respond to shows that a serial killer is on the loose in Cork, deadly, clever and ready to kill. Julia is not a detective yet, but she fights to remain on the case, and rise through the ranks, fighting against sexism (make me a cup of tea love is what she often hears from other male Gardai), and all other barriers to raise up the ranks, and become the best in her field. The killer, and many others, stand no chance against her dogged determination and investigative talents.

Now, in 2024, Julie has retired, and retreated to a tiny cottage in a remote part of Ireland, where she tries to hide from her demons. She still has no peace, fighting nightmares every night, and struggling to find a sense of calm in her life. Her career may have been her all, but she lost everything in the process, her husband, family and more. She is trying to come to terms with this and the fact that she did good in life, and find peace relaxing with her dog, Mutt. Then she gets a phone call from her old Superintendent. Two women have been murdered. The killings, identical to those of 1994. He needs her on the case. She has to face her ultimate demons, before more women die.

The story that ensues is gripping. Julie has to come out of retirement, and not only face her fears, but come onto a team that resents her presence, and be obstructed by the present day officers, which hinders her progress. The story is told in a mix of timelines, both very detailed and heavy, which draw you into the story, gripping you. The tension keeps building, as the killer is hunted, but you start to realise that there is more to the case than meets the eye.

This is such a well written piece, it is hard to believe it is a debut novel. The story starts off strong, and only proceeds to get more intense. The opening is chilling, with any pause in pace afterwards only serving to let the reader catch their breath before rushing on to the suspense filled finale. And what an ending! Definitely recommend this as one to read, a definite 5 stars!

*I received this book from NetGalley for review, but all opinions are my own.

Cox is dead. These are the words that Julia repeats, as a mantra, to still the escalating horror. He is dead, and yet.....Julia has retired, away from life, away from the past. A safe little burrow where she can live with Mutt, her saviour dog - and keep the world at bay. But. He kills again. Same exact manner. Same meticulous detail. Suddenly, Julia is no longer retired, but pulled kicking and screaming back to the present.

I do love a thriller set over two time periods. Each one is delectable in itself but work well to explain what is happening in the other. It's split between 1994 and 2024, and Amy has done a really good job of making them very separate but kept enough links in them not to be two different stories. Normally in books like this, I prefer one time period to another, and I did give it some thought but for once, I think they were actually of equal merit. I got something different out of each time period, and yet it also gave me a chance to get to know these characters over a 30 year period.

She has pitched the location perfectly to show this sense of isolation and claustrophobia which adds to the tension of the story.

I have a funny thing with accents, as soon as I hear one, all my thoughts then get spoke in that accent. Which is often funny, except for when we went to see my Dad after he'd passed and one of the nurses had a really strong Scottish accent, and I couldn't help but giggle at his voice in my head. Anyway, moving on, knowing the characters in this were Irish, I kept reading it in that way. I don't know if it's important to this review but it made me smile so thought I'd note it down anyway. But I think reading it in the accent it's meant to be spoken in really helped me connect to the characters more.

I have read a lot of thrillers and crime novels in my time and there was something about this, something so accomplished that it reminded me of traditional crime novels, a proper thriller. But it still had something a little different to set it apart from the other thrillers out there.

I read it in less than a day it was so addictive. It ends satisfyingly enough but I hope she might revisit these characters again because I can definitely see scope for more stories, and if they're as good as this one then it'll be a treat.

I say this about every thriller I read and I will repeat it again because it's still true. Thrillers are probably my most read genre, and so you would think I'd have learnt how to read between the lines adn work out the reveal by now, but I never do. It's so frustrating but impressive at the same time. I guessed a couple of things in this but not the big reveal and so I commend her for that.

It was well paced; quick enough to be enticing and exciting but not rushed, but slow enough to give the reader time to get invested without it being boring.

I thought this was her debut novel, but after some Googling I have come across some previous novels written under a different name. But still, this is her debut novel as Amy Jordan and so I will continue to see it as a debut., in a way. And what a story it was.