Split between happenings 16 years ago and the present day, this psychological who-done-it thriller had me gripped from start to finish.
16 years ago, Rose is an eighteen-year-old girl suffering the angst of college life.
Her younger brother Billy goes missing and is found murdered, but who is responsible.
In the present day, Rose is a slightly awkward, mid-thirties, library assistant, who still lives under the stigma of what happened when her brother was killed.
A discovery whilst looking after her ailing sends Rose on a hunt for the truth about Billy’s death.
The passages set 16 years in the past are a warning tale of grooming, how a 17-18 girl with low self-esteem can be cajoled into a relationship with an older man, at the expense of her family and friends.
Rose lies to her family, and although her best friend initially encourages her, she too starts to distrust the older and controlling man.
The effects on everybody around Rose are devastating, but who is to blame for the things that start to happen around them.
This book had me second guessing myself from start to finish. Empathy, sympathy and frustration was aimed at all the characters, especially Rose.
The end? I don’t think anyone will see it coming, but it won’t be a “that-would-never-happen” moment either.
A great book written with reality, and emotion in abundance.
Pages: 330
Publisher: Bookouture
Publishing Date: 4th October 2017.
Available to pre-order on Amazon
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