It all began with a sticker on a stolen phone.

Eli stole it, hoping it would give him something he’s lost. A thrill in the taking? Guilt? Remorse?

But just like the other things he’s stolen, or the dangerous things he tries, he feels nothing. No fear. No excitement, happiness, or any other emotion. He’s been in therapy for a year and his family and therapist seem pleased with his progress. But the memory of the accident that left him and his family with external and mental scars, is still lost to him.

The owner of the phone tracks him down, and retrieves it – not knowing Eli has looked into the distinctive pink-rabid-rabbit sticker on the case, and what it means. The result is a visit to an underground nightclub. Trauma Land.

This is no ordinary nightclub. Sure there is music and dancing, but these clubbers are looking for more than that. They too have lost the ability to feel alive – and hope the shock factor of what they pay for brings them the thrills they’ve been missing.

Eli finally finds what he’s been looking for – and a whole lot more too. The emotions of thrill, anticipation, shock, and fear are all consuming, but the truth is even worse.

I cannot tell a lie – it took me quite a while to get into this thriller, but all the rave reviews and comments made me keep reading – and I am so glad I did. And that ending….!!

Luckily I also learnt it isn’t a standalone novel before beginning reading, or I probably would’ve shrieked at the end like those who found out the hard way. Bottom line is – I can’t wait for the next one.

 17 year old Elias Pugh is a likeable teen, despite stealing, lying and planning more mayhem. He’s also amusing, hurting and confused. Learning the truth along with him is gripping, shocking and actually jaw dropping.

Such a twist on technology, mental health, and coercion, Trauma Land is a multilayered thriller, with an underlying and unnerving layer of horror.

Will you visit Trauma Land yourself to see what everyone there pays to see?

Author – Josh Silver

Age – 15+

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(2025, One World Publications, Thriller, Club, Intrigue, Gripping, Politician, Therapy, Mental Health, Crime, Murder, Series, Betrayal, Family, Mystery, Science, Secret)