Many thanks to netgalley, the author and the publisher for approving my request to read this book.

Set in Ireland in 1995 local girl Saoirse goes missing whilst playing a game with her young brother Jack in the woods. As the story unfolds the mystery deepens and you're left wondering who you can trust if anyone and just what did happen to Saoirse.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book which started out as an almost supernatural thriller but quickly became a much deeper story though it maintained the creepy feel throughout.

I'll definitely be recommending this book to others and look forward to more from this author.

3.5 ⭐

This feels like a two genre book.
On one hand, it's a family drama, coping, or trying to, with the breakdown of family life. A death, and a child disappearance.
On the other hand, it's slightly other wordly, with its talk of haunting, creatures, and missing children.
The slower pace gives you a chance to get to know the characters, and the location better.
I very much enjoyed the whole thing, the never quite knowing.
Solid story line and conclusion, and one I'll be recommending to others.

3.5/5 stars! This is a psychological thriller that takes place in 1995 Ireland. The premise was super interesting, but I was just confused for the majority of this story. I couldn't figure out if it was trying to be a crime thriller, host elements open to interpretation for paranormal influence, or give in to small-town secrets. I did like the conclusion; it was just hard to follow at times.

Set in rural West Ireland in 1995, The Counting Game is atmospheric and intriguing, but very slow paced. Nine year old Jack and his elder sister Saoirse are playing the woods when she disappears. Jack is traumatised and finds it difficult to talk about the events - the forest locally is thought to be haunted. And it's not just children who believe in the creature that lives there.

The Gardai search for the kissing girl - not the first to disappear in the area - while psychologist Freya works with Jack. She is drawn into the case, trying to solve the disappearance as well as assisting Jack.

The Counting Game is an interesting read, something of a slow burner. It never quite reaches excitement but the core narrative keeps the reader engaged.