Sometimes a book seems more like a mystery thriller than a psychological thriller. I often wonder what decisions go into determining the genre.
A case in point is this book.
While there are touches of psych thriller along the way, I feel that it is more of a mystery. As Georgie protects her son and asks questions about the tragedy, the clues feel more like a whodunit.
Other readers may have a different opinion. I think it would depend on whether or not they go in thinking it will be very mind-twisty or mystery thriller twisty.
And yes, there is a difference.
There are plenty of twists in the book and not all of my theories were correct. The plot is just complex enough to be entertaining.
Memories play a big part in the story. Georgie is constantly thinking back on past experiences with the Jacksons. She does have a particularly interesting observation early on, that memories are not always reliable.
Apple: https://apple.co/3myBBU9
Kobo: https://bit.ly/38ivET3
Google: https://bit.ly/3ji0m4Q
Audio Links:
UK: zpr.io/p4BbnCfuVQNR
US: zpr.io/fj6jKvCAvSYP
Are they our own memories, or do stories that people tell us, become the memories instead? Where does one end and the other begin?
That plays a big part in the plot as well. Georgie eventually realizes that due to her situation, she has allowed other stories to taint her memories (no spoiler there).
As the author lays the groundwork, the action is slow for a good part of the book. However, as Georgie approaches the truth and finds more answers, the story picks up.
I think that is why I was surprised by the big revelation at the end. It was abrupt and flew in suddenly. And then we moved to the epilogue (which felt a bit forced).
The characters are strong, however, and there are some good wrap-ups with earlier storylines. Grief is also a main theme, with each character acting accordingly to their points of view.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. I would recommend it as a mystery thriller. With this perspective, see if you can figure out the culprit!
Other books by this author:
Author Bio:
Sue Watson was a TV Producer at the BBC until she wrote her first book and was hooked.
Now a USA Today bestselling author, Sue explores the darker side of life, writing psychological thrillers with big twists.
