An exceptional debut novel. A slightly slow start but the author has a wonderful way with words and before long the tension is ratcheting up until it is hard to put the book down. The interviewing detective is almost as damaged as the 14 year old victim who has the answers but communicates by creating a sinister fairy tale - and time is running out for the victim. The psychology is fascinating and the detective is forced to take risks to get to the answers. I very much enjoyed it; a change from the usual psychological crime books and I will be recommending it.
Thanks to Penguin and NetGalley for an ARC in return for an honest opinion.

A dark and disturbing novel about a police psychologist conducting an interview, which I couldn't put down until I had finished it.

It gives a harrowing insight into the way a damaged child just might react, and is a lesson in why children should be nurtured and protected. Heart rending stuff.

A fascinating insight into the world of the psychiatric profession and how they deal with trauma survivors. It was interesting and unusual to see a crime investigation conducted by a health care professional using the interview technique and how the victim responded.
Very well researched and an intelligent read which kept me gripped.