The most perfect lives can hide the darkest secrets…
Mary has everything. Beautiful and rich, she lives on an exclusive street in the heart of the city, in a house with gorgeous views and an immaculately maintained garden. Her life looks perfect.
But behind closed doors the truth is very different. Her husband Andrew barely speaks to her, spending his days down in the basement alone. Her teenage nephew is full of rage, lashing out with no warning. Her carefully constructed life is beginning to fall apart.
And then someone starts sending Mary anonymous notes, threatening her and her family…
Everyone has secrets. But is someone at number 13 hiding something that could put the whole family in danger?
My review
I liked the beginning. It made me curious and I liked the way the story started in the present, then went back in time for a few days to pick up again in the present. The book is divided in 3 parts and part 3 was my favourite by far.
The book was like a rollercoaster for me with some ups (ah I like this part) but unfortunately a lot more downs (Pff, I would like to skip this part).
It was not gripping and although I have to say there sometimes was a hint of suspense, I can’t really call it a thriller.
There was a lot of analysing and psychology, but I never had the feeling of learning more about the characters. I felt there was a lot of unfinished business and I still have pile of unanswered questions.
I am sorry that I can’t be more positive, but this is my honest opinion. I am grateful for receiving the chance to read the book. 2,5 stars.
Thank you, S.D. Monaghan, Netgalley and Bookouture.
About the author
S. D. Monaghan grew up in Dublin before travelling extensively in Asia, Europe and America. After teaching English in Thailand for two years, he moved back to Ireland and gained an honours degree in psychology. While living in Canada for four year, he studied screenwriting in Toronto. S. D. Monaghan completed the Masters in Creative Writing at Trinity College, Dublin with the editorial guidance of the Pulitzer Prize winner Richard Ford and Orange Prize nominee, Deirdre Madden. On the strength of his work there, he was chosen to represent both the university and the Oscar Wilde Writers’ Centre to read excerpts at the Dublin Publishers Festival and on Dublin Culture Night. He lives in Dublin with his wife, where he is currently working on his new novel. He is represented by Zoe Ross at United Agents.
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