A Fresh Start

A Short Psychological Crime Thriller

Seven years after his brother’s death, Luke Masterson is still holding himself together—one day at a time.

On the anniversary of the tragedy that tore his family apart, Luke reports for what should be an ordinary morning shift at a quiet Essex pub. He’s counting the days until he can leave England behind and follow the backpacking route his brother never got the chance to take.

Then a stranger arrives.

As the pub empties and the morning drags on, Luke senses something isn’t right. With no one else around and the outside world slipping out of reach, a routine shift turns into a test of nerve that forces Luke to confront the grief, fear, and self-doubt he’s carried for years.

What follows is a tense psychological battle where every decision matters, and survival depends on more than strength or courage.

A Fresh Start is a gritty, character-driven crime thriller about loss, resilience, and the moment a broken young man is forced to choose who he wants to be.

Perfect for readers who enjoy British crime, slow-burn suspense, and emotionally grounded thrillers.