The Package

 

By Sebastian Fitzek

Review

When respected psychiatrist Emma claims she was attacked in a hotel room by a serial killer known as the Hairdresser, the police aren't convinced. Although he shaved her head, her life was spared. His previous victims were shaved, attacked and murdered. If what Emma claims did actually happen, why wasn't she also killed? Even her husband doubts her story. With her mental health now seriously affected, she quits her job and shuts herself away from the world. But when a parcel arrives for a neighbour who isn't home, Emma agrees to take it in. . . unaware of what she's set in motion.

In 2023 I read The Nightwalker by Sebastian Fitzek and thought it was fantastic. Whilst The Package is an incredibly unsettling read, it didn't quite reach the same heady heights. The author paints a vivid picture of mental instability; with the lines between reality and illusion blurred. I was on the edge of my seat throughout. If you enjoy dark fiction The Package fits the bill.

★★★☆☆

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Head of Zeus
• Publication Year: 2020
• Author: Sebastian Fitzek
• Genre: Psychological Thriller

Synopsis

Emma's the one that got away.

The only survivor of a killer known in the tabloids as 'the hairdresser' - because of the trophies he takes from his victims.

Or she thinks she was.

The police aren't convinced. Nor is her husband. She never even saw her tormentor properly, but now she recognises him in every man.

Questioning her sanity, she gives up her job as a doctor in the local hospital and retreats from the world. It is better to stay at home. Quiet. Anonymous. Safe. No one can hurt her here.

And all she did was take a parcel for a neighbour.

She has no idea what she's let into her home.