August 30, 2025

HEAD is a gripping fusion of tech-driven suspense and psychological intrigue, delivered through a raw, fast-moving story that keeps the tension high. At its core is Ben Lorloch—a young game designer thrust into a maze of digital deception, assassins, and buried secrets after the murder of his father.

What makes this novel stand out isn’t just the smart interplay between virtual reality and real-life danger—it’s the emotional intensity driving the action. Lorloch is no polished hero; he’s complex, distant at times, yet undeniably compelling. The writing style is sharp and staccato, matching the breakneck pace of the plot. It might feel abrupt at first, but once it clicks, it pulls you in hard.

If you're into thrillers that mix tech, mystery, and existential depth, HEAD is worth the ride. Think Black Mirror meets a gritty, futuristic murder mystery—twisted, immersive, and unexpectedly thoughtful.

5.0 out of 5 stars This is a good one!!!

Reviewed in the United States on August 26, 2025

HEAD is a mesmerizing collision of speculative fiction, psychological thriller, and digital noir. From the very first page, I was pulled into its fractured virtual world—where memory deceives, identity shatters, and nothing is quite as it seems. The writing is sharp yet lyrical, reminiscent of Neil Gaiman’s mythic layering in American Gods while carrying the haunting intimacy of William P. Young’s The Shack. Like Jodi Picoult’s House Rules, it navigates moral ambiguity with heart and tension, yet its pacing and suspense keep you flipping pages like a James Patterson thriller.tem description

4.0 out of 5 stars A 007 Ride That I Enjoyed

Reviewed in the United States on August 19, 2025

A frenetic, Dan Brown type mystery with darker overtones.

5 stars

Goodreads - August 13, 2025

HEAD is fast-paced, original, and immersive—ideal for fans of mystery, cyber-noir, and thrillers who enjoy a clever, high-energy plot.

5.0 out of 5 stars Life Beyond the Video Game

Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2025

This novel brings my imagined fears to life - the horrifying idea that the plot of a scary video game might spill over into the real world. What if the characters start killing for real? What if they have no mercy, no empathy, and no fear of getting caught? Or perhaps the player was simply inspired by the violent video game, pushing him toward real-life actions, blending traumatic events with actual murders. The author doesn’t distract us with detailed, emotional descriptions; instead, he maintains a crisp rhythm and pacing. What matters are the events themselves, their logic, and sequence. You keep reading because you want to solve the puzzle, not because you're emotionally invested in the characters. It’s a contemporary, dynamic thriller that captures current technological trends.

4.0 out of 5 stars Definitely a must read!

I have seriously fallen in love with this book! I don’t really read many books of this genre either so I wasn’t expecting my reaction to it to be so enthusiastic about how great it really is! An exciting, gripping read that will get your heart racing.

4.0 out of 5 stars A Clever Thriller

Reviewed in the United States on June 24, 2025

HEAD is a wild ride featuring mystery, tech-noir, and sharp satire. Ben Lorloch, assassin and narrator, is eccentric, humorous, and elegant. The voice is original and confident. The story is fast-paced with a globetrotting plot. It is bold, unconventional, and atypical, which is what makes it so entertaining..

5.0 out of 5 stars Relentless Energy

Reviewed in the United States on May 31, 2025

This thriller is an electrifying story that pulls you into a shadowy digital realm where danger hides behind every screen. From the very first chapter, the energy is relentless—this isn’t just a mystery; it’s a pulse-pounding ride through a world where high-tech illusion and real-world consequences collide. Ben Lorloch is a fascinating protagonist: wealthy, skilled, and enigmatic, with layers of depth that unfold in gripping ways.

The narrative whisks you through a series of surprising turns, each more unexpected than the last, as Lorloch navigates a virtual environment that feels anything but artificial. The tension escalates with each page, making it nearly impossible to step away. What makes this story so engaging is how seamlessly it blends the allure of modern gaming culture with the intensity of a high-stakes thriller.

4.0 out of 5 stars Fast-paced and Addictive!

Reviewed in Italy on 4 June 2025

Head is a thrilling fusion of gaming and mystery, packed with twists, suspense, and clever riddles. Ben Lorloch is a compelling lead in a virtual world where nothing is as it seems. Perfect for fans of action, assassins, and high-stakes whodunits—you won’t want to put it down.tem description

5.0 out of 5 stars Fast-paced and gritty

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 May 2025 on Amazon.co.uk.

Fast-paced and gritty, HEAD throws you straight into the action with Ben Lorloch — a sharp, no-nonsense lead who keeps things moving. The mystery is well layered, with just enough twists to stay ahead of the reader without feeling forced. It’s not trying to reinvent the genre, but it delivers solid thrills, smart dialogue, and a satisfying plot. A good pick for fans of tough, clever crime fiction.

5.0 out of 5 stars

Moral Ambiguity

Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2025 on Amazon.com.

The book weaves a sense of claustrophobic tension into a high-tech mystery. I couldn’t shake the unease of its virtual landscapes mirroring Ben’s fractured reality. The pacing and moral ambiguity of his hunt for truth left me questioning every alliance, right up to the final one.

5.0 out of 5 stars

"HEAD" Delivers an Electrifying Thrill Ride Where Gaming Meets Deadly Mystery

Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2025 on Amazon.com.

This is an electrifying novel that skillfully merges suspense, technology, and personal drama. At the heart of the story is Ben Lorloch, a young, gifted game developer who finds himself embroiled in a deeply personal mystery after witnessing his father’s murder. This event propels him into a relentless search for answers, filled with twists, turns, and dangerous secrets.

Readers will find the plot both innovative and immersive, especially those intrigued by the fusion of gaming culture with real-world thriller elements. The novel is powerful in how it creates a sense of urgency and emotional depth, ensuring readers remain invested in Ben's quest for justice.

While the narrative occasionally employs a clipped, abrupt style, it ultimately adds to the fast-paced atmosphere. Ben Lorloch is portrayed convincingly, with compelling motivations and vulnerabilities, making his struggles feel authentic and relatable.

Overall, HEAD is a standout mystery thriller, perfect for readers seeking an action-packed story that delivers both adrenaline and emotional resonance.Description text goes here

5.0 out of 5 stars An Absolute Thrill Ride

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 March 2025 on Amazon.co.uk.

Wow—this book had me hooked from page one! HEAD is a perfect mix of action, mystery, and high-stakes gaming, and I couldn’t put it down. Ben Lorloch is a fantastic character—brilliant, dangerous, and constantly on the edge. The twists caught me off guard, and the suspense had me flipping pages late into the night. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing, this one’s a must-read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Good One!

Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2025 on Amazon.com.

HEAD completely grabbed me from the first page. It’s the perfect mix of gaming, mystery, and intense a ction, with a twist I didn’t see coming. Ben Lorloch, the billionaire assassin at the center, is complex and compelling—just the kind of character that makes you want to keep reading. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I couldn’t put it down

5.0 out of 5 stars Loved it

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 22 January 2025 on Amazon.co.uk.

Absolutely loved this book. It kept me hooked throughout and there were so many good twists and turns. I also loved the character development of Ben Lorloch, so well done.

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Enjoyable - A Must Read

Reviewed in the United States on December 6, 2024 on Amazon.com.

I really enjoyed this book. It kept me engaged throughout the whole book. I loved the author's style of writing and could not put it down. Pick up a copy, you won't regret it.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Riveting Mystery Packed with Twists and Suspense

Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2024 on Amazon.com.

A Ben Lorloch Mystery Thriller is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat tale that keeps readers guessing until the final page. Ben Lorloch is a captivating protagonist, balancing sharp intellect with a gritty determination to unravel the truth. The plot weaves intricate mysteries with unexpected twists, making for an addictive read.

5.0 out of 5 stars Tense with an original plot

Reviewed in the United States on December 2, 2024 on Amazon.com.

This tense thriller was entertaining to read, with lots of unexpected twists and a fun writing style. The VR environment was an interesting originality, especially in the age of AI. Something between "Total Recall" and "Assassin's Creed". Fun!

5.0 out of 5 stars

Reviewed on December 3, 2024 on Goodreads.com

This was a strong start to the Ben Lorloch Mystery Thriller series, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed about the genre… and had that mystery element that I was looking for. P. Portraits has a strong writing style and was glad I read this. I hope to read more in this series and from the author.

5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to follow and engaging

Reviewed in the United States on November 10, 2024 on Amazon.com.

5 STARS - for a clever mix of gaming elements and a thrilling mystery. Easy to follow and engaging enjoyed this start to finish.

5.0 out of 5 stars Thrilling and Unique Gaming Mystery!

Reviewed in the United States on November 10, 2024 on Amazon.com.

HEAD, by P. Portraits: A Ben Lorloch Gaming Mystery Thriller is a true page-turner with an absolutely brilliant combination of high-stakes gaming and a suspenseful ingeniously woven mystery. This story belongs to a billionaire assassin and game creator named Ben Lorloch, who drags you into a world of virtual reality, blood-curdling riddles, gruesome assassinations, and shocking plot twists. Every line is filled with suspense, making one keep guessing and questioning what is real and what is not. From artful storytelling down to the involved plot, Portraits is an emotional ride that gamers and fans of thrillers will alike love. Superbly recommended for an enthralling, edge-of-your-seat experience!

5.0 out of 5 stars One of a kind Book

Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2024 on Amazon.com.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wowzers! What an impressive novel.

While it took me a bit to get into the author’s writing style, once I did I was fully immersed. It honestly felt like I was in the mc’s ‘head’ (no pun intended lol), and the more the story went on - the more intense it got.

Someone in film needs to get a hold of this because I could definitely see it becoming a movie or series!

5 stars- this is definitely one of a kind.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Thrilling Dive into a World of Gaming and Mystery

Reviewed in the United States on October 24, 2024 on Amazon.com.

Head: A Ben Lorloch Gaming Mystery Thriller by P. Portraits delivers an engaging and gripping blend of gaming and mystery. If you're a fan of both immersive video game worlds and a thrilling whodunit, this novel provides the perfect fusion. The story follows billionaire assassin Ben Lorloch as he delves into a twisted and suspenseful investigation filled with riddles, gruesome assassinations, and unexpected twists.

The author does a fantastic job of creating an immersive environment, pulling readers into the high-stakes virtual world while keeping the tension at a constant high. The mystery is complex yet clever, with each revelation leaving you questioning what’s real and what’s part of the game.

Portraits skillfully balances the gaming elements with a plotline that offers plenty of action and intrigue, making it a great read for both mystery lovers and gaming enthusiasts alike. The storyline keeps you hooked from start to finish, with surprises that will have you on the edge of your seat. If you're looking for a fresh take on a gaming thriller, Head will not disappoint.

5.0 out of 5 stars Gripping Thriller Set in a Virtual World of Danger and Intrigue!

Reviewed in the United States on November 13, 2024 on Amazon.com.

HEAD: A Ben Lorloch Mystery Thriller is a truly unbeatable minute-by-minute thrill from start to finish, which follows the story of billionaire assassin Ben Lorloch as he plunges deep into a theoretically intriguing mystery within a virtual reality game. Prepare for twists of an unexpected nature, gruesome assassinations, and a good deal of suspense as P. Portraits adroitly merges gaming elements with the classic mystery tropes in this engrossing read.

Action-packed and full of intrigue, this novel really draws the reader deep into a layered mystery challenging not only what's real but what's only part of the game. Without being a gamer, one would be attracted to the vividness in storytelling, the complexity of the characters, and the tension which bites into one's nails. A must-read for all those who enjoy psychological thrillers combined with virtual reality!