Reviews

I'd put this book more in the category of psychological suspense and/or family drama than in the mystery/thriller category, despite that the opening third reads like a thriller.

I have some big caveats about this book.

Spoiler

The ending rubbed me the wrong way, when Kate is thinking about how she'll willingly give up every part of herself because the baby is just that important to her. Isn't this just perpetuating the narrative that a woman's true purpose is to become a mother? I like to think that good parents will sacrifice everything to protect their children, but I reject the idea that tossing aside your own identity, your own needs, and your own sense of self because this not only denies women their identities as individual human beings, it's also not a good example to set for your children. Plus, isn't it glaringly obvious that this is an entirely patriarchal notion, since no one expects men to subsume themselves in their children?

Also, its portrayal of mental illness is beyond problematic.

bookishbrighton's review against another edition

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3.0

Well, this book was a wild and extremely unexpected journey. I’m struggling to say much without feeling like I’m giving spoilers but what I can say is - I really enjoyed the story/twists and the way the book was split into perspectives as I think this really helped tell the story. The only reason it lost stars is because the first part of the book dragged a bit for me, the chapters were a bit long (or maybe just felt that way!) and the ending was a bit of a stretch for me based on what I had learnt about the characters throughout the book.

rooey12's review

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dark emotional medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

booksnink's review

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dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Content Warnings

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