This was a really engrossing read which I got into very quickly however there was a constant feeling of unease as I was trying to figure out what was going on and was never quite sure of the reliability of the protagonist. The details of her childhood were painful and the impact on her very apparent. I like how this was split into two parts, that worked really well in explaining the relationship and the ending was in parts expected yet in other ways shocking. Overall though I found this a real page turner with an intriguing protagonist especially as her life gradually disintegrated as she tried to find out the truth about her fiancé resulting in her taking increasingly desperate actions.

I was drawn in by the description, Claire goes to visit her fiancé for lunch only to find out that he hasn’t worked there in many months.

This wasn’t what I was expecting but we will get to that.
The story is told from Claire’s perspective, interspersed with her memories from her childhood and journal entries from her life since she met Noah, her fiancé.

Claire is written well, but the greatest character in this book is her friend Sukhi, who both supports Claire and who adds a level of calmness to the situation.

Then, there’s the twist. I’m pretty sure most will see it coming, and the only downside of this otherwise brilliant book, is that I’m not sure it’s played for anything but shock value and I would have hoped for a little more sensitivity especially given the detail put in to Claire’s childhood.

Aside from that, this will be a bestseller.

This book was a ARC from netgalley, which I was provided with in return for an honest review, which this is.

I enjoyed this book. I read it very quickly and found it easy to get into. The “Mother” character I absolutely detested - so well done to the author for creating such a challenging person. The plot revolves around Claire discovering her fiancé having another life she knows nothing about and it spurs Claire on to try and find out what happened. I didn’t see the plot twist coming at the end. I liked the book’s take on the psychological aspects very much. Will recommend to others to read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance reading copy.

I absolutely flew through this book! I enjoyed it so much! An absolutely stonking debut! Just brilliant! Think everyone will be talking about this one when it releases next year. Feel very privileged to have read it so early so thank you for the advanced copy!

Thank you to Netgalley and publisher for early release. Unfortunately I just couldn't get into this book. I got about half way and couldn't finish.

This thriller by debut author Callie Kazumi is well worth a read if you enjoy shocking twists and turn throughout your novel. The ending had me shook! Highly recommend