It is always exciting and sometimes slightly unnerving when reading a new author, you are never sure what to expect, so I approached The Hacker with the same trepidation, what I came away with was the feeling of wow what an outstanding thriller and read. The quality of the writing and storytelling belie the fact that this is a debut novel, such is the assuredness in both aspects Straight away you are drawn in to the world of FBI special agent Erika Blackwood and the seedier side of the dark web. I found the plot to be ingenious in its concept which gave the book a different feel as I read it, the author takes the reader on somewhat of a journey, into a world which to me is a mystery, however, you do not have to be a tech geek to understand or enjoy what is a highly compelling thriller, with a killer who only exists online. The book is superbly plotted and the way the author constructs each chapter to heighten the suspense and tension to the point of almost turning the storyline on its head, it leaves you thinking who is hunting who, there is some clever interplay between Blackwood and the mysterious Dantalion. The characters within the book feel real, wonderfully drawn out with real depth, important in giving the book that feel of realism, there is an obvious and real backstory to Blackwoods past, which informs some of her thinking and the decisions she makes, your never quite sure which side of the line she is on, again adding another dimension to the plot. The pace of the books flows as the action moves location and the stakes are upped, the race to the ending keeps you on the edge of your seat One thing I did find interesting having finished the book were the authors notes at the back of the book, it is somewhat thought provoking as to what can and could be achieved in this dark world and poses plenty of questions In someways the book tackles difficult subjects but not in a gloryfying way, but then you have to understand the characters you are dealing with. Overall this is a highly compelling read, with a plot that thanks to the quality of the writing feels plausible, it was a read which had me gripped throughout with its myriad of twists and the unexpected, take a ride on the dark side A standout 5* debut novel, highly recommend an author to watch out for.