Kill your darlings is unfortunately quite boring. The premise is pretty interesting, but it falls quite flat. The story is told backwards, and while at times it was a little confusing with all the years,

I've read several reviews critiquing the narrative structure of Kill Your Darlings, so I'll start by saying that yes, the unusual backwards structure of the novel was initially a bit of a challenge. But after the first couple of chapters, it was easy to keep pace and frankly, I want the books I read to challenge me. Leaving that aside, the book was a classic Swanson noir thriller. I love his writing, and especially the characterisation, which was as strong here as in previous books. He is especially good at convincing readers to side with murderers, somehow managing to make both Wendy and Thom sympathetic in their own way. I loved it.

I’m massive fan of Peter Swanson and was really excited to read Kill Your Darlings.

The story centres on Wendy and Thom, High School sweethearts who married . Both are academics and and live a life their neighbours are envious of. But scratch the surface and their marriage isn’t the most conventional, Thom drinks too much and is a serial womaniser. There are lies, secrets and much more. Without wishing to reveal any spoilers - you’ll just have to read it!

It’s an absolute page turner - starting at the end, and ending at the beginning when Wendy and Thom first meet at Middle School.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Faber & Faber, for the providing the e-ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This is the amazing story of Wendy and Thom, a married couple (now in their fifties) who are firmly committed to each other - but why? I found it intriguing and riveting and thought it an extremely clever concept how it all unfolds in episodes going back in time. How to commit the perfect murder comes to mind after reading this. Highly recommended.