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The Prank
Welbeck Publishing Group is publishing "standout" debut thriller The Prank by L V Matthews.
Fiction publisher Jon Elek acquired UK & Commonwealth rights from Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson Agency and will publish in spring 2021.
The Prank is a contemporary thriller examining the fallout from a single moment in a reality TV programme that has devastating and long-term consequences, according to its synopsis.
Matthews previously worked for 10 years in UK and international sales for major publishing companies as Liv Whitehead.
Matthews said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be publishing with Jon and everyone at Welbeck next year. The team carries a wealth of experience and I feel privileged to have them champion The Prank."
Elek added: "We are thrilled to welcome L V Matthews to our list. At its heart, The Prank is a novel about isolation and obsessiveness. It’s also a revenge fantasy about regret, denial and trying to rationalise the past. You think it’s going to be about taking an eye for an eye but it ends up being so much more than that. It should appeal to fans of Caroline Kepnes, Ruth Ware, Fiona Barton and A J Finn."
Bolton commented: "We’re delighted to be working with Welbeck. It’s been incredible seeing Jon and the brilliant team react with such passion and ambition to Liv’s remarkable debut. From the moment you meet El and follow her as she begins to infiltrate the life of a seemingly perfect family you know you’re in for an incredible ride. To find a debut as fresh, commercial and standout as The Prank is a very lucky thing."
Fiction publisher Jon Elek acquired UK & Commonwealth rights from Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson Agency and will publish in spring 2021.
The Prank is a contemporary thriller examining the fallout from a single moment in a reality TV programme that has devastating and long-term consequences, according to its synopsis.
Matthews previously worked for 10 years in UK and international sales for major publishing companies as Liv Whitehead.
Matthews said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be publishing with Jon and everyone at Welbeck next year. The team carries a wealth of experience and I feel privileged to have them champion The Prank."
Elek added: "We are thrilled to welcome L V Matthews to our list. At its heart, The Prank is a novel about isolation and obsessiveness. It’s also a revenge fantasy about regret, denial and trying to rationalise the past. You think it’s going to be about taking an eye for an eye but it ends up being so much more than that. It should appeal to fans of Caroline Kepnes, Ruth Ware, Fiona Barton and A J Finn."
Bolton commented: "We’re delighted to be working with Welbeck. It’s been incredible seeing Jon and the brilliant team react with such passion and ambition to Liv’s remarkable debut. From the moment you meet El and follow her as she begins to infiltrate the life of a seemingly perfect family you know you’re in for an incredible ride. To find a debut as fresh, commercial and standout as The Prank is a very lucky thing."
Audiobook
First published March 18, 2021
About the author
L.V. Matthews
4 books91 followersHello all,
Thank you for stopping by my page.
I have a new book coming which I'm so excited for you to read! It's called TO LOVE A LIAR and it's out in March 2025. You can pre-order now in paperback, ebook, and audio.
My backlist titles are -
SILENT WATERS, THE TWINS (Richard and Judy Bookclub pick) and THE PRANK. All published by Welbeck/Mountain Leopard Press, Hachette.
For any queries, please go via my agent, Camilla Bolton, at The Darley Anderson Agency
Find me on:
Twitter @LV_matthews
Instagram @lv_matthews_author
Thank you for stopping by my page.
I have a new book coming which I'm so excited for you to read! It's called TO LOVE A LIAR and it's out in March 2025. You can pre-order now in paperback, ebook, and audio.
My backlist titles are -
SILENT WATERS, THE TWINS (Richard and Judy Bookclub pick) and THE PRANK. All published by Welbeck/Mountain Leopard Press, Hachette.
For any queries, please go via my agent, Camilla Bolton, at The Darley Anderson Agency
Find me on:
Twitter @LV_matthews
Instagram @lv_matthews_author
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
March 17, 2021
What may be funny for some people, it could be a hard time for others. Being pranked is no fun for the person who gets the other end of the joke, and, unfortunately, often we don’t think about the consequences of it and how that can impact someone’s life, whether it’s for a short- or long-term frame.
I loved this book so much.
From the first chapter, I wanted to know more and see where this story is going to take me.
As with most thrillers, there are bits and pieces of the puzzle left by the author throughout the book so that the reader can make their assumptions and then get to that end turn when you can say Yes! I knew it!
For me, with this book, I was actually in the other team because from what I thought I knew and made my theories, none of them was right.
And that’s what makes a great story for me.
Page after page, this book will keep you engrossed and willing to read it without a break.
I loved this book so much.
From the first chapter, I wanted to know more and see where this story is going to take me.
As with most thrillers, there are bits and pieces of the puzzle left by the author throughout the book so that the reader can make their assumptions and then get to that end turn when you can say Yes! I knew it!
For me, with this book, I was actually in the other team because from what I thought I knew and made my theories, none of them was right.
And that’s what makes a great story for me.
Page after page, this book will keep you engrossed and willing to read it without a break.
October 31, 2021
I liked this book overall, but it’s one of those books where you kind of need to leave reality behind (ironic, since it involves a reality show). It was pretty implausible, but it was also engaging and entertaining.
Eleanor has some issues going on in her life. Her mom walked out on her and her sister to be with another man, then not long after, died of cancer. Their father killed himself after that, leaving El and Lissy adult orphans.
Long story short, he killed himself, in a roundabout way, because of a reality show called “Pranksters”. He was pranked by the show, which later led to him not helping someone in danger. The guilt of that made him kill himself. That’s when I was like seriously? You killed yourself over that?
In real life, I’d never speak ill of the dead or suicidal, but this is a book, so I’m going to say it - that was a stupid reason. If it happened in real life, I’d assume they had underlying mental illness that caused their suicide and it had less to do with the show than their own mind but… 🤷🏼♀️
Anyway, the rest of the book is Eleanor trying to get revenge on the company who made the show, and the man who produces it. It’s actually not a bad read, but again, you’ll need to set reality aside. Once you do that, you can just get lost in the story. Then the ending had more slightly-outlandish-even-for-a-thriller stuff before everything is said and done, but I still enjoyed it.
I’m giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up because this is a debut novel. I think the beginning and end could have been slightly better if the idea was just tweaked a little to make it more reasonable, but I liked it anyway and would recommend it for a fluffier thriller read.
Eleanor has some issues going on in her life. Her mom walked out on her and her sister to be with another man, then not long after, died of cancer. Their father killed himself after that, leaving El and Lissy adult orphans.
Long story short, he killed himself, in a roundabout way, because of a reality show called “Pranksters”. He was pranked by the show, which later led to him not helping someone in danger. The guilt of that made him kill himself. That’s when I was like seriously? You killed yourself over that?
In real life, I’d never speak ill of the dead or suicidal, but this is a book, so I’m going to say it - that was a stupid reason. If it happened in real life, I’d assume they had underlying mental illness that caused their suicide and it had less to do with the show than their own mind but… 🤷🏼♀️
Anyway, the rest of the book is Eleanor trying to get revenge on the company who made the show, and the man who produces it. It’s actually not a bad read, but again, you’ll need to set reality aside. Once you do that, you can just get lost in the story. Then the ending had more slightly-outlandish-even-for-a-thriller stuff before everything is said and done, but I still enjoyed it.
I’m giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up because this is a debut novel. I think the beginning and end could have been slightly better if the idea was just tweaked a little to make it more reasonable, but I liked it anyway and would recommend it for a fluffier thriller read.
October 4, 2021
Eleanor has had a traumatic life, struggling the loss of her mother and father. One day at work, she comes across a familiar name that shocks her to the core, but she can't remember why... as she digs through past memories and finds the reason, she'll do things she never thought she would to fully get revenge on the man she blames for her father's death. As she is pulled further in to a world of pranks gone wrong, she'll realise how far she is willing to go, and how life will never be the same again...
I really liked how easily the story flowed, everything is straight to the point and uncomplicated. There's some good twists, and it's a very realistic book, showing how far revenge can make a person go. It makes you question how far you'd go for revenge, makes you really feel a lot of mixed emotions. It's a really good, thought-provoking book.
I really liked how easily the story flowed, everything is straight to the point and uncomplicated. There's some good twists, and it's a very realistic book, showing how far revenge can make a person go. It makes you question how far you'd go for revenge, makes you really feel a lot of mixed emotions. It's a really good, thought-provoking book.
August 24, 2023
I quite liked the sections that focused on the darker side of reality entertainment.
Whilst a prank show seems like a harmless orchestrated laugh, the manner in which a joke could potentially go too far was well realised here.
Our main protagonist Eleanor finds a link between a hit show and her father's death and her unrelenting quest to discover both the truth and potential revenge made for a snappy, entertaining read.
Whilst a prank show seems like a harmless orchestrated laugh, the manner in which a joke could potentially go too far was well realised here.
Our main protagonist Eleanor finds a link between a hit show and her father's death and her unrelenting quest to discover both the truth and potential revenge made for a snappy, entertaining read.
January 7, 2022
I loved this book!! The Prank had me hooked from the get go, I just had to see what happened next!😯 I wasn’t expecting the twists and turns this book took and I was shook in parts! The premise of the book definitely drew me to it.
I’m glad I started the year with this thriller, it was such a brilliant debut😊 I know the author has a new release next month, The Twins and I will 100% be picking that one up!
I’m glad I started the year with this thriller, it was such a brilliant debut😊 I know the author has a new release next month, The Twins and I will 100% be picking that one up!
March 14, 2021
This was another of the Georgia Maguire audiobook revelations.
Honestly, this narrator can do no wrong in my eyes. Her talent for portraying the sadness, drama is excellent and her accents for the many characters are absolutely superb!
The book was a very fast read and the excitement continues through the entire book with no let up.
I could have listened to it for hours, and I did. It was even during the night when my insomnia was bad!
It was a great book and thoroughly enjoyable.
Honestly, this narrator can do no wrong in my eyes. Her talent for portraying the sadness, drama is excellent and her accents for the many characters are absolutely superb!
The book was a very fast read and the excitement continues through the entire book with no let up.
I could have listened to it for hours, and I did. It was even during the night when my insomnia was bad!
It was a great book and thoroughly enjoyable.
June 2, 2021
Psychological thriller lovers, if you’re looking for something fresh and exciting in this genre, then you need to try this debut novel by L.V. Matthews The Prank. This is one of those books which you’ll be recommending to everyone once you have finished it.
I felt I really connected to the lead character El; you can really sense her pain as she relieves the trauma that has happened in her life. I could understand her need to get revenge, and I could see why she wanted to down this route. But as she drew closer to achieving this goal, I kept thinking that she was putting herself closer and closer to danger. But it’s what makes this book so exciting and so nerve-racking as the tension continues to tighten.
What I loved about this book was how original it felt as I was reading it. I thought the idea of a television show of people being pranked was really well thought out, and it’s an idea I haven’t seen before in thrillers. Like El, I felt angry as well as I was reading it. Sometimes these sorts of things can be done in good humour. But the people behind the television show in this book seem to be only in it for the viewing figures and the reaction they get from their audience. They don’t have a thought at all for the people who they prank.
The pace kept me turning the pages; I was rooting for El to get what she wanted right the way through. There are some very sinister scenes, especially when she is planning out what she is going to do in an Internet chatroom. I didn’t like the producer of the television show at all. He comes across as quite likeable and charming when El is first introduced to him, but then things soon turn very sinister. I was really worried about what he would do if he found out the truth about El. It made me wonder just how far El would be prepared to go to get what she wants.
I have definitely found a new favourite author, and I can’t wait to see what L.V. Matthews writes next. The Prank is gripping and very chilling. A brilliant debut thriller.
I felt I really connected to the lead character El; you can really sense her pain as she relieves the trauma that has happened in her life. I could understand her need to get revenge, and I could see why she wanted to down this route. But as she drew closer to achieving this goal, I kept thinking that she was putting herself closer and closer to danger. But it’s what makes this book so exciting and so nerve-racking as the tension continues to tighten.
What I loved about this book was how original it felt as I was reading it. I thought the idea of a television show of people being pranked was really well thought out, and it’s an idea I haven’t seen before in thrillers. Like El, I felt angry as well as I was reading it. Sometimes these sorts of things can be done in good humour. But the people behind the television show in this book seem to be only in it for the viewing figures and the reaction they get from their audience. They don’t have a thought at all for the people who they prank.
The pace kept me turning the pages; I was rooting for El to get what she wanted right the way through. There are some very sinister scenes, especially when she is planning out what she is going to do in an Internet chatroom. I didn’t like the producer of the television show at all. He comes across as quite likeable and charming when El is first introduced to him, but then things soon turn very sinister. I was really worried about what he would do if he found out the truth about El. It made me wonder just how far El would be prepared to go to get what she wants.
I have definitely found a new favourite author, and I can’t wait to see what L.V. Matthews writes next. The Prank is gripping and very chilling. A brilliant debut thriller.
September 24, 2021
A prank is defined as being a bit of harmless fun. But what do you do if someone else’s fun causes another person pain? At what point should an innocent bystander intervene? And is it ever right to have such moments of humiliation recorded publicly?
El has been a different person since her father committed suicide. She knew he had depression, but had repressed her memories of the build-up to his death after finding his body. However, when a famous TV exec - who just so happens to be the producer of an infamous reality show called Pranksters - is served in her restaurant, El starts to remember things. She recalls her father being deeply affected by a prank that meant he felt responsible for the death of a young man. She eventually remembers the link between her father and this show.
Determined to avenge her father, a rather elaborate plan is hatched. El wants revenge, but is - as many of us would be - wholly clueless. She is not suspicious when an online search results in a friendly reply from someone calling themselves Horsehead who wants to help her. Alarm bells rang from the off, but it was great fun watching El worm her way into Jim’s life and start her preparations to bring him down…wholly unaware that someone else was pulling the strings all along.
The story was well-plotted and I loved the fact that nobody was quite what they seemed. Dig a little and it seems many people have something to hide, but there was a grim sense of satisfaction from watching how events unfolded.
El has been a different person since her father committed suicide. She knew he had depression, but had repressed her memories of the build-up to his death after finding his body. However, when a famous TV exec - who just so happens to be the producer of an infamous reality show called Pranksters - is served in her restaurant, El starts to remember things. She recalls her father being deeply affected by a prank that meant he felt responsible for the death of a young man. She eventually remembers the link between her father and this show.
Determined to avenge her father, a rather elaborate plan is hatched. El wants revenge, but is - as many of us would be - wholly clueless. She is not suspicious when an online search results in a friendly reply from someone calling themselves Horsehead who wants to help her. Alarm bells rang from the off, but it was great fun watching El worm her way into Jim’s life and start her preparations to bring him down…wholly unaware that someone else was pulling the strings all along.
The story was well-plotted and I loved the fact that nobody was quite what they seemed. Dig a little and it seems many people have something to hide, but there was a grim sense of satisfaction from watching how events unfolded.
January 24, 2021
Brilliant read! Full of twists and turns, it had my heart racing towards the end. Amazing debut
April 15, 2021
I actually haven’t heard anyone talk about this, and I just randomly picked it up one day when I was out shopping. I do think this deserves more hype as it is a really promising debut.
Eleanor was fine as a protagonist, she wasn’t my favourite but I thought she had a lot of relatable qualities. I think she was very smart and driven, but clearly very flawed and bent on revenge. Horsehead was the best of them all, he was so funny and being able to develop such a strong character through simple text chats isn’t only really hard I think it shows great character building. Jim was a great character obviously not because I liked him whatsoever but in the sense that he was a fantastic villain. And I always love a good bad guy.
At first, I thought Eleanors motives for revenge were a little weak. But... as the story developed I think the core narrative got a lot stronger. I think there are ways the author could have probably come up with a more solid case... but it was further developed so I can’t really complain without giving spoilers.
It is actually an interesting concept, because when you think about it some of the pranks that occur on these shows... a lot of them must go completely wrong and seriously hurt people. I would absolutely love to know if real shows have paid off citizens when they’re put into situations like this. I also look at it differently now, I’m not a massive fan of prank shows apart from Prank Encounters because who doesn’t love Gaten Matarazzo? But it is really getting enjoyment out of other peoples suffering and stress essentially.
I think the twists were all good and I didn’t see any of them coming. I didn’t really have an “oh my god” moment as I don’t think it was written in a fast enough pace for that. But I was never bored and there was always something happening. It wasn’t the obvious choice definitely, and I enjoyed how you went through all of the potential scenarios with Eleanor. It was an interesting way to develop a narrative that I haven’t seen before.
My main criticism is that I honestly couldn’t have cared less about the sorta but not romance with Bobby. It was really half arsed and I think it should have either been wiped completely and saved a few pages or it should have been a fully flefged romance. I didn’t care and I don’t think it was needed at all. Not every story needs a romance subplot and this certainly didn’t.
I did like this, I probably won’t remember it forever but I do think that this is a really impressive debut and I’m looking forward to more from this author. But it served its purpose and I enjoyed it.
Eleanor was fine as a protagonist, she wasn’t my favourite but I thought she had a lot of relatable qualities. I think she was very smart and driven, but clearly very flawed and bent on revenge. Horsehead was the best of them all, he was so funny and being able to develop such a strong character through simple text chats isn’t only really hard I think it shows great character building. Jim was a great character obviously not because I liked him whatsoever but in the sense that he was a fantastic villain. And I always love a good bad guy.
At first, I thought Eleanors motives for revenge were a little weak. But... as the story developed I think the core narrative got a lot stronger. I think there are ways the author could have probably come up with a more solid case... but it was further developed so I can’t really complain without giving spoilers.
It is actually an interesting concept, because when you think about it some of the pranks that occur on these shows... a lot of them must go completely wrong and seriously hurt people. I would absolutely love to know if real shows have paid off citizens when they’re put into situations like this. I also look at it differently now, I’m not a massive fan of prank shows apart from Prank Encounters because who doesn’t love Gaten Matarazzo? But it is really getting enjoyment out of other peoples suffering and stress essentially.
I think the twists were all good and I didn’t see any of them coming. I didn’t really have an “oh my god” moment as I don’t think it was written in a fast enough pace for that. But I was never bored and there was always something happening. It wasn’t the obvious choice definitely, and I enjoyed how you went through all of the potential scenarios with Eleanor. It was an interesting way to develop a narrative that I haven’t seen before.
My main criticism is that I honestly couldn’t have cared less about the sorta but not romance with Bobby. It was really half arsed and I think it should have either been wiped completely and saved a few pages or it should have been a fully flefged romance. I didn’t care and I don’t think it was needed at all. Not every story needs a romance subplot and this certainly didn’t.
I did like this, I probably won’t remember it forever but I do think that this is a really impressive debut and I’m looking forward to more from this author. But it served its purpose and I enjoyed it.
August 14, 2021
My rating: 4.5*
An original and fresh thriller which makes this a fantastic debut novel. The story centres around Eleanor who believes her father died because of a reality TV stunt gone wrong. Several years later she spots the man responsible Jim Valente and decides to try and exact revenge. The closer she gets, the more she uncovers, until she realises that – just like with reality TV – what’s on the surface isn’t a full portrayal of the truth.
The characters in this story are believable, with protagonist El complex, layered and likeable. It’s easy to empathise with El and her anger over the ‘you’ve been framed’ style programme which she believes derailed her life. Jim Valente also felt truly believable, the kind of person who is superficially charming but ultimately weak because he thinks that being rich affords the opportunity to pay his way out of the constraints of responsibility. ‘Horsehead’ was also a great character, I was rooting for El to get the justice she needed although there are some dark turns in the story.
I liked the reality TV theme and it’s subtle underscoring of the morality of pranks where the unfortunate victims believe something truly awful has happened whilst the audience revels in their ignorance. This aspect of the book holds a mirror up to society and reflects a darkness about the human cost of this type of entertainment.
The story itself draws the reader in and although it took me a couple of chapters to get hooked, it has a good variation in pace. It has some great twists which compelled me to keep on reading. There is a well thought out and deeply detailed backstory. I highly recommend it and look forward to more from LV Matthews!
@welbeck @lv_matthews_author
An original and fresh thriller which makes this a fantastic debut novel. The story centres around Eleanor who believes her father died because of a reality TV stunt gone wrong. Several years later she spots the man responsible Jim Valente and decides to try and exact revenge. The closer she gets, the more she uncovers, until she realises that – just like with reality TV – what’s on the surface isn’t a full portrayal of the truth.
The characters in this story are believable, with protagonist El complex, layered and likeable. It’s easy to empathise with El and her anger over the ‘you’ve been framed’ style programme which she believes derailed her life. Jim Valente also felt truly believable, the kind of person who is superficially charming but ultimately weak because he thinks that being rich affords the opportunity to pay his way out of the constraints of responsibility. ‘Horsehead’ was also a great character, I was rooting for El to get the justice she needed although there are some dark turns in the story.
I liked the reality TV theme and it’s subtle underscoring of the morality of pranks where the unfortunate victims believe something truly awful has happened whilst the audience revels in their ignorance. This aspect of the book holds a mirror up to society and reflects a darkness about the human cost of this type of entertainment.
The story itself draws the reader in and although it took me a couple of chapters to get hooked, it has a good variation in pace. It has some great twists which compelled me to keep on reading. There is a well thought out and deeply detailed backstory. I highly recommend it and look forward to more from LV Matthews!
@welbeck @lv_matthews_author
June 9, 2022
Don't really know how this book got so many high reviews it was predictable and it dragged on. Nothing happened until probably the last few chapters. Literally forced myself to finish it in the hope I was wrong about this whole story; I wasn't.
June 27, 2022
Overview: I picked this up after reading the author's latest book "The Twins", which I loved. The Prank is her debut novel and the blurb really intrigued me. It's not a murdery type thriller, but oh wow...it was amazing and so so tense. I found the plot very unique, having not read another thriller like it. I was instantly drawn in to El and her elaborate scheme to get revenge. I did have my suspicions from the start and while I was right about one, the other twists blew me away!
Good points: I loved the writing style and just the fluidity of the story. Not once was I confused about anything or left needing more information. The twists towards the end just kept coming and I was so caught up in finishing it that I let the potatoes on the hob boil over...oops! Seriously a gripping thriller that really looks at the devastating effects of "pranks" and exploiting people for a cheap laugh. As I said I found the premise very unique and thought provoking.
Not so good points: To be honest I have nothing negative to say about this book. I really really enjoyed it.
A thriller I highly recommend and this author is now one of my auto-buy authors. Looking forward to seeing what she writes next!
Good points: I loved the writing style and just the fluidity of the story. Not once was I confused about anything or left needing more information. The twists towards the end just kept coming and I was so caught up in finishing it that I let the potatoes on the hob boil over...oops! Seriously a gripping thriller that really looks at the devastating effects of "pranks" and exploiting people for a cheap laugh. As I said I found the premise very unique and thought provoking.
Not so good points: To be honest I have nothing negative to say about this book. I really really enjoyed it.
A thriller I highly recommend and this author is now one of my auto-buy authors. Looking forward to seeing what she writes next!
March 2, 2021
I’ve been desperate to read this book as soon as I heard about it as the premise sounded brilliant and I’m very happy to say it didn’t disappoint!
Chapters are short, pacy and always end on a mini cliffhanger leaving you wanting more, which is most likely why I ended up late into the night reading as I just couldn’t put it down. You will need to know what happens next – it’s so fast paced and full of intrigue.
El is a bit of a lost soul since losing both her mum and dad, with the death of her dad hitting her the hardest. As she discovers the cause for his death this is when she begins her journey into the murky world of revenge and secret online websites to help formulate a plan.
The online conversations she has with a man called ‘Horsehead’ were especially good. I really enjoyed their interactions and I was definitely laughing out loud at one point in regards to a well known mumsnet reference!
The events and situations that El gets herself into had me on the edge of my seat and as we get nearer to the end I did start to put some things together, however my guesses were incorrect which is always good as nothing worse than guessing the ending. The author did a brilliant job of keeping the suspense up until the very end.
If you’re looking for a fast paced mystery / thriller with a unique premise then you need to read this!
Chapters are short, pacy and always end on a mini cliffhanger leaving you wanting more, which is most likely why I ended up late into the night reading as I just couldn’t put it down. You will need to know what happens next – it’s so fast paced and full of intrigue.
El is a bit of a lost soul since losing both her mum and dad, with the death of her dad hitting her the hardest. As she discovers the cause for his death this is when she begins her journey into the murky world of revenge and secret online websites to help formulate a plan.
The online conversations she has with a man called ‘Horsehead’ were especially good. I really enjoyed their interactions and I was definitely laughing out loud at one point in regards to a well known mumsnet reference!
The events and situations that El gets herself into had me on the edge of my seat and as we get nearer to the end I did start to put some things together, however my guesses were incorrect which is always good as nothing worse than guessing the ending. The author did a brilliant job of keeping the suspense up until the very end.
If you’re looking for a fast paced mystery / thriller with a unique premise then you need to read this!
March 13, 2021
ARC Review - Gifted by Welbeck Publishing
Release Date: 18th March 2021
What would you do if you believed a TV show was the reason your dad ended his life? How far would you go to seek revenge?
The Prank is a fast paced, gripping and exciting thriller which has you turning the pages rapidly to find out how it will pan out for El. This book is full of drama and suspense and is written really well. El’s character pulls on the heart strings as she struggles with her grief but at the same time you desperately want her to follow through with her plans to the very end!
This is the debut book by L.V.Matthews and I’m eagerly awaiting to read more of her work. She has set the bar high with The Prank and I highly recommend it to all!
Release Date: 18th March 2021
What would you do if you believed a TV show was the reason your dad ended his life? How far would you go to seek revenge?
The Prank is a fast paced, gripping and exciting thriller which has you turning the pages rapidly to find out how it will pan out for El. This book is full of drama and suspense and is written really well. El’s character pulls on the heart strings as she struggles with her grief but at the same time you desperately want her to follow through with her plans to the very end!
This is the debut book by L.V.Matthews and I’m eagerly awaiting to read more of her work. She has set the bar high with The Prank and I highly recommend it to all!
November 10, 2020
Firstly, a huge thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced copy of this brilliant book in exchange for an honest review. I honestly couldn't believe this was a debut novel - LV Matthews has broken into the thriller scene with a gripping, breathtaking thriller with such heart and depth. The main character, El, is complex and relatable, and I found myself engrossed in her story as she navigated the dark world she found herself in. As an avid thriller reader, I am always hoping for a book packed with twists and turns, and I was not disappointed - the author keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I can't wait to see what Matthews does next!
September 22, 2023
"In the sixteenth century, the word prank referred to a 'wicked deed', though its modern definition is much lighter: a practical joke or an act of mischief."
This book mostly revolves around the people who make a reality TV show where the hosts prank unsuspecting members of the public. I was a little wary about reading this one because I hate reality TV, and I am not a fan of pranks. However, this story is about what happens when the prank goes wrong, and the aftermath it can leave.
I found at points the story dragged a little, and at times, it could be quite predictable. But overall, it was a great debut, and it was an interesting read.
This book mostly revolves around the people who make a reality TV show where the hosts prank unsuspecting members of the public. I was a little wary about reading this one because I hate reality TV, and I am not a fan of pranks. However, this story is about what happens when the prank goes wrong, and the aftermath it can leave.
I found at points the story dragged a little, and at times, it could be quite predictable. But overall, it was a great debut, and it was an interesting read.
August 23, 2021
So often, the formula of a thriller is instantly recognisable, and the plot predictable... Not so in The Prank, which, set in the world of 'light' entertainment, is a refreshingly original concept for a tale of revenge.
A tightly-woven and most enjoyable read.
A tightly-woven and most enjoyable read.
July 31, 2022
After reading and enjoying The Twins by L.V Matthews I decided to have a look at her previous book The Prank. As it was available on Scribd I opted for the audio again.
This story follows El and her quest for revenge. El was quite happy living her normal life and working her job until a chance encounter changed everything. Meeting the person El believes is responsible for her father’s death sparks a need for revenge that El didn’t know she had. With the help of her online friend El sets her plan into action.
I loved the concept of the story and the tv show The Prank, it showed the worst in people and how horrifying reality tv can be but it delved deeper than that. El’s journey showed the after affects of appearing on shows such as these and how damaging they can be. I will admit that I was egging El on and could completely understand her need for revenge. What she had witnessed no one should have to go through.
The only stumbling point for me was the waiting for the action to get started. At points during the audio I did find my mind beginning to wonder and didn’t feel as pulled into the story as I had hoped. I would say that this is a slow burn thriller so perhaps I needed something with a little more pulse at the time.
What I will say is the end of the story packs a punch and it feels that all the simmering was leading up to the big finale.
This story follows El and her quest for revenge. El was quite happy living her normal life and working her job until a chance encounter changed everything. Meeting the person El believes is responsible for her father’s death sparks a need for revenge that El didn’t know she had. With the help of her online friend El sets her plan into action.
I loved the concept of the story and the tv show The Prank, it showed the worst in people and how horrifying reality tv can be but it delved deeper than that. El’s journey showed the after affects of appearing on shows such as these and how damaging they can be. I will admit that I was egging El on and could completely understand her need for revenge. What she had witnessed no one should have to go through.
The only stumbling point for me was the waiting for the action to get started. At points during the audio I did find my mind beginning to wonder and didn’t feel as pulled into the story as I had hoped. I would say that this is a slow burn thriller so perhaps I needed something with a little more pulse at the time.
What I will say is the end of the story packs a punch and it feels that all the simmering was leading up to the big finale.
November 15, 2020
WOW. What can I say, this was brilliant!
El is a young woman who lost both her parents at an early age and is still grieving the loss of her father. Suddenly she finds out that she might not be the one to blame after all and that she may be able to get revenge the man who did cause his death. With the help of her internet pal ‘Horsehead’ she takes a job as the mans PA with the intent to bring him down but how far will she go?
This book was modern, fast and pacey, it had me staying up way past my bedtime to finish it! I really enjoyed the interaction between El and horse head, it was hilarious.
I am normally pretty good at working out the end to thrillers but I didn't get this one until right at the end (I had some pretty wild and wonderful theories though!)
I still cannot believe that this is a debut it is just so well written, this author completely gets what a thriller needs to be, I cannot wait to see what she brings us next!
On top of all that its taught me things I did not know, I learnt a new fact about the colour yellow and never to google mums net threads...
Thanks to Welbeck for my #gifted copy in exchange for review.
El is a young woman who lost both her parents at an early age and is still grieving the loss of her father. Suddenly she finds out that she might not be the one to blame after all and that she may be able to get revenge the man who did cause his death. With the help of her internet pal ‘Horsehead’ she takes a job as the mans PA with the intent to bring him down but how far will she go?
This book was modern, fast and pacey, it had me staying up way past my bedtime to finish it! I really enjoyed the interaction between El and horse head, it was hilarious.
I am normally pretty good at working out the end to thrillers but I didn't get this one until right at the end (I had some pretty wild and wonderful theories though!)
I still cannot believe that this is a debut it is just so well written, this author completely gets what a thriller needs to be, I cannot wait to see what she brings us next!
On top of all that its taught me things I did not know, I learnt a new fact about the colour yellow and never to google mums net threads...
Thanks to Welbeck for my #gifted copy in exchange for review.
March 18, 2023
I don't know whether to see this as a scientific experiment of as a personal disappointment.
April 7, 2021
The Prank is a book which grabs you from the first chapter. I found it to be such an addictive, easy read and I really enjoyed it. There are so many twists and turns, and it definitely had me guessing throughout. Matthews is a brilliant writer and included everything I love in a clever thriller - a likeable character, action and secrets!
Eleanor, the main character, is someone I loved instantly. She doesn't know her place in the world, all she knows is she loves her remaining family, her sister and uncle. With both parents dying whilst she was young, she had to grow up really quick, and her character developed through the book was fantastic to read. She toys with the barrier between morals and revenge throughout and my heart kept breaking for her. Everytime something new popped up, I was literally on the edge of my seat waiting to throw the book as far away as possible just so I wouldn't have to read about her getting into trouble! From revenge sites, multiple identities and picking locks to overcoming grief, learning to love yourself and finding the truth.
I love a good thriller, and this has to be one of my favourites of the year. I couldn't recommend it any more!
Eleanor, the main character, is someone I loved instantly. She doesn't know her place in the world, all she knows is she loves her remaining family, her sister and uncle. With both parents dying whilst she was young, she had to grow up really quick, and her character developed through the book was fantastic to read. She toys with the barrier between morals and revenge throughout and my heart kept breaking for her. Everytime something new popped up, I was literally on the edge of my seat waiting to throw the book as far away as possible just so I wouldn't have to read about her getting into trouble! From revenge sites, multiple identities and picking locks to overcoming grief, learning to love yourself and finding the truth.
I love a good thriller, and this has to be one of my favourites of the year. I couldn't recommend it any more!
January 22, 2023
3.5
I did enjoy it once the pace picked up but fundamentally I didn't like the main character or believe her motivations which was a shame.
I did enjoy it once the pace picked up but fundamentally I didn't like the main character or believe her motivations which was a shame.
December 12, 2020
“A harmless prank. A tragic outcome. Now, the joke’s on them...”
Pranks are supposed to be harmless fun. A little mischievous joke to elicit embarrassment, confusion or discomfort in the unknowing victim. But what if that silly, little prank had devastating, irreversible consequences? The Prank is a timely, suspenseful and addictive thriller, conveying the deep and dark lengths a person will go to for revenge.
I was instantly hooked after the first few pages. I enjoyed the premise of this psychological thriller, especially because it was the protagonist seeking retribution against the antagonist. I found it interesting to be inside El’s mind and was compelled to keep reading as her motivations for revenge were gradually revealed. There were some tense scenes that had me holding my breath, whilst others had me laughing out loud. The humour and banter helped to break up some of the darker themes and were pitched at the perfect moments. I’m very much a character driven reader and I genuinely liked all of the central characters. They were fleshed out well and all had their own distinct voices. I even hated to love Jim (ew) and I found the dynamic between El and her online ‘partner in crime’ Horsehead fantastic. Not knowing Horsehead’s identity nor their true intentions facilitated further intrigue and suspense throughout. Importantly, this review would not be complete without me expressing my love for Jim’s dog, Gertie. What a cutie!
I initially gave The Prank 4.5 stars, but rounded this up to 5 stars because I really enjoyed my reading experience and honestly, I’m still in awe that this is the author’s debut novel. Liv Matthews is an incredibly talented writer and this book simply oozes magnificence. I can’t wait to read more of her work in the future.
If you love an intense, revenge thriller containing strong characters and a sprinkle of humour, then you need to add The Prank to your TBR. Thank you to the lovely team at Welbeck Publishing for my gifted, uncorrected proof copy of The Prank in exchange for an honest review. I genuinely can’t wait for people to get their hands on a copy of this in March 2021! ✨
Pranks are supposed to be harmless fun. A little mischievous joke to elicit embarrassment, confusion or discomfort in the unknowing victim. But what if that silly, little prank had devastating, irreversible consequences? The Prank is a timely, suspenseful and addictive thriller, conveying the deep and dark lengths a person will go to for revenge.
I was instantly hooked after the first few pages. I enjoyed the premise of this psychological thriller, especially because it was the protagonist seeking retribution against the antagonist. I found it interesting to be inside El’s mind and was compelled to keep reading as her motivations for revenge were gradually revealed. There were some tense scenes that had me holding my breath, whilst others had me laughing out loud. The humour and banter helped to break up some of the darker themes and were pitched at the perfect moments. I’m very much a character driven reader and I genuinely liked all of the central characters. They were fleshed out well and all had their own distinct voices. I even hated to love Jim (ew) and I found the dynamic between El and her online ‘partner in crime’ Horsehead fantastic. Not knowing Horsehead’s identity nor their true intentions facilitated further intrigue and suspense throughout. Importantly, this review would not be complete without me expressing my love for Jim’s dog, Gertie. What a cutie!
I initially gave The Prank 4.5 stars, but rounded this up to 5 stars because I really enjoyed my reading experience and honestly, I’m still in awe that this is the author’s debut novel. Liv Matthews is an incredibly talented writer and this book simply oozes magnificence. I can’t wait to read more of her work in the future.
If you love an intense, revenge thriller containing strong characters and a sprinkle of humour, then you need to add The Prank to your TBR. Thank you to the lovely team at Welbeck Publishing for my gifted, uncorrected proof copy of The Prank in exchange for an honest review. I genuinely can’t wait for people to get their hands on a copy of this in March 2021! ✨
March 4, 2021
A brilliant debut, that kicked off straight from the beginning. Twists I definitely didn't see coming and a very unique take on how a TV show can affect someones life.
July 15, 2021
I was expecting a full-revenge story but the backstory that drives Eleanor's motivations are weak and the way she infiltrates into Jim's life is borderline ridiculous (she dives into the deep web and meets someone in America that hacks everything for little money and makes her a PA overnight. Right).
I admit I found it entertaining but once her dad is revealed not to be the saint she thought, the book just loses its momentum. The pranked becomes the pranker and suddenly the moral weight of the tale clashes with the thriller of it all. I liked the premise, but the execution not so much.
I admit I found it entertaining but once her dad is revealed not to be the saint she thought, the book just loses its momentum. The pranked becomes the pranker and suddenly the moral weight of the tale clashes with the thriller of it all. I liked the premise, but the execution not so much.
May 22, 2021
An utterly gripping, moving and clever story that asks the important question ‘how far is too far?’ in relation to reality TV and practical jokes. I was completely invested in the main character’s situation and her addictive quest to revenge her father’s death, rooting for her all the way, even as things spiralled beyond what she had set out to do. Really well crafted, pacy plot with lots of twists I didn’t see coming, and wonderful writing.
October 24, 2023
I picked up "The Prank" right after finishing "The Twins," but I was really disappointed. The book started off promisingly, but it lacked the thriller element I was hoping for. There were subplots that seemed interesting at first, but they didn't really go anywhere. The main character's motivation felt exaggerated and didn't make much sense. I will still give the author's future books a chance. "The Twins" was simply fantastic, and I'm hoping for more books in that style.
May 2, 2021
I had seen this all over IG so it's been on my wishlist forever! Finally picked it up not long after it launched and when I needed a thriller to get my teeth into, I picked it up. A great storyline, great characters and an interesting plot. I raced through it really quickly and it didn't disappoint. If you like quick and exciting reads, then give this a go ❤
December 10, 2020
I raced through this juicy page-turner, set in the glamorous, cut-throat world of TV, and loved being caught out by its curveball twists - a refreshing new take on the psychological thriller that gives new meaning to the job from hell...
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