Published by Embla Books Genres: Fiction, Psychological Thriller
Format: ARC, eBook
I was instantly absorbed in this book from the very beginning. I enjoyed the isolated setting, the sense of dread, the tension, and the looming danger that lurks just under the surface. I found this book to be fast paced, and kept me on the edge of my seat, feeling anxious amongst other feelings.
Mary and her husband, Cal live in a cabin in the Scottish Highlands. They live a quiet life and while Cal is at work each day, Mary tends to the garden and makes sure that their cabin is clean and there is food heating on the stove and a smile on her face when Cal returns home each day. It’s a routine that works for them, or is it?????
From the very beginning, we know that Mary is not happy. She is fearful and treads lightly around Cal. She is trapped and has not been able to leave but she has a plan……
Readers are privy to Mary’s thoughts and emotions as well as her day-to-day activities. We serve as silent observers to her relationship with Cal and the dynamic of their ‘relationship’. I could feel the sense of unease oozing from the pages. I found myself feeling for Mary and holding my breath grew increasingly concerned for her in several scenes.
Have we seen this type of plot before? Yes, but that doesn’t take away from the enjoyment and impact this book had on this reader. There are a nice number of twists in this book and there were two that I did not see coming. The book did take a turn toward the end which I did not see coming. I wasn’t the biggest fan of it, but it wasn’t enough to hinder my enjoyment of the book.
*This is a tale of survival and the effects of trauma. There will be triggers for some as there is both physical and psychological abuse.
Thank you to Embla Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.