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Dětská hra
Anna je úžasná matka a její dcery Nell a Ivy jsou její chloubou. Stejně tak miluje svou nevlastní dceru Bay. Vše se však změní v den, kdy Nellina krása upoutá pozornost cizince v kavárně... Tichá a citlivá Nell nestojí o to být na billboardech, ale ví, že její rodina zoufale potřebuje peníze. Navíc je to příležitost k útěku před zvrácenými hrami její nevlastní sestry. Ale ve chvíli, kdy Nell stane před kamerou, vypluje na povrch zničující tajemství, které s Bay skrývaly – a pouta této semknuté rodiny se navždy roztrhnou. Nell i Bay trvají na tom, že jsou nevinné, ale lze některé z dívek skutečně věřit? Zatímco se Annina dokonalá rodina rozpadá, je nucena vybrat si stranu. Aby zachránila jednu dceru, musí zradit druhou. A špatná volba může mít nedozírné následky...
416 pages, Hardcover
First published February 26, 2021
573 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Clare Boyd
10 books138 followersClare Boyd lives with her husband and their two daughters in Surrey, where her little green shed at the bottom of the garden provides a haven for her writing life.
Before becoming a writer, she enjoyed a career in television, as a researcher in documentaries and then as a script editor in drama at the BBC and Channel Four, where her love of storytelling took hold.
Before becoming a writer, she enjoyed a career in television, as a researcher in documentaries and then as a script editor in drama at the BBC and Channel Four, where her love of storytelling took hold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
February 5, 2021
3-4 stars rounded up
When Bay was eight her father Dom brought her to live with his new family of partner Anna and half sisters Nell and Iris. Fast forward nine years and Bay is now 17, Nell is 15 and studying for her GCSE ‘s when she is approached and signed by a modelling agency. The story is told in dual timelines between then and now and by Anna, Bay and Nell.
First of all, I would not classify this as a thriller but as a psychological family drama. It is an intriguing examination of family dynamics and sibling rivalry in particular. As time goes on the family becomes increasingly fractured, relationships are tested and strained. From the start of her introduction to the family Bay changes the dynamics which she utilises to the maximum. The characterisation is a strong element in the storytelling. Bay is a fascinating character and you see that she has multifaceted with some facets being extremely unpleasant to say the least. Anna is a pleaser, she desires to keep the peace at all costs and is obliviously blind to the truth which becomes very destructive. Dom is a waste of space, he sucks out the oxygen and some of his responses simply make you angry. The modelling world that Nell enters is portrayed as a corrupt, unsavoury and very murky world and it’s almost like Nell has to become dead inside to cope. It takes a toll. As the storyline progresses there is growing tension, you become aware of the depth of some cruel actions and manipulation and disturbing revelations surface. The novel is well written, the premise and plot are good and the relatively short chapters keep the pace reasonably quick.
However, I find it slow initially and it takes a while to settle into the novel and become absorbed. Although the pace is gripping in places there are areas where it slows because of the depth of the storytelling; there’s some unnecessary minutiae of family life which I think slows the momentum.
Overall though, this is a good examination of a broken dysfunctional family.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc for an honest review.
When Bay was eight her father Dom brought her to live with his new family of partner Anna and half sisters Nell and Iris. Fast forward nine years and Bay is now 17, Nell is 15 and studying for her GCSE ‘s when she is approached and signed by a modelling agency. The story is told in dual timelines between then and now and by Anna, Bay and Nell.
First of all, I would not classify this as a thriller but as a psychological family drama. It is an intriguing examination of family dynamics and sibling rivalry in particular. As time goes on the family becomes increasingly fractured, relationships are tested and strained. From the start of her introduction to the family Bay changes the dynamics which she utilises to the maximum. The characterisation is a strong element in the storytelling. Bay is a fascinating character and you see that she has multifaceted with some facets being extremely unpleasant to say the least. Anna is a pleaser, she desires to keep the peace at all costs and is obliviously blind to the truth which becomes very destructive. Dom is a waste of space, he sucks out the oxygen and some of his responses simply make you angry. The modelling world that Nell enters is portrayed as a corrupt, unsavoury and very murky world and it’s almost like Nell has to become dead inside to cope. It takes a toll. As the storyline progresses there is growing tension, you become aware of the depth of some cruel actions and manipulation and disturbing revelations surface. The novel is well written, the premise and plot are good and the relatively short chapters keep the pace reasonably quick.
However, I find it slow initially and it takes a while to settle into the novel and become absorbed. Although the pace is gripping in places there are areas where it slows because of the depth of the storytelling; there’s some unnecessary minutiae of family life which I think slows the momentum.
Overall though, this is a good examination of a broken dysfunctional family.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc for an honest review.
February 25, 2021
The Pretty One is a standalone domestic drama following the trials and tribulations of a blended family and their dynamic, sibling rivalry and how secrets can tear even the strongest families to shreds. The prologue begins in 2012 and Nell is more than a little excited that her stepsister, Bay, is moving in with them. Eight-year-old Bay is Dom Hart’s daughter from a past marriage and he and wife, Anna, believe they can make it work. Six-year-old Nell and their second daughter, baby Iris, are dying to show Bay her bedroom and make her feel welcome and a part of the family as quickly as possible, even though to allow Bay her own bedroom meant Nell would have to share with Iris. They point out Pippa the horse in the field across the road before Bay asks to see Nell’s bedroom and says that she wished that was hers before running out and slamming her own bedroom door behind her. Both Bay and Nell end up in tears. Fast forward to present day, Nell is fifteen and on a trip to the Tate Modern in London with her mother and sisters. She is rapidly turning from a girl into a woman before Anna’s eyes and is curvy and beautiful. Iris is ten-years-old now meanwhile Bay is seventeen. Anna spies a white-haired forty-something male who was beginning to make her feel uncomfortable by watching her and her daughters as they move from exhibit to exhibit. The man eventually catches up to them in the cafe and introduces himself as David from Take One models, who had been searching for new talent.
Nell can't believe her luck but her parents are wary and are filled with concern that if they decide to allow her to work as a model that it will negatively impact her education. How can she prepare and ace exams if she is networking and often busy as well as being either out of the country on international photoshoots or away from home in another state? They decide to allow it as the money she earns will be able to help pay for her college course when the time comes and will teach her an important lesson – the value of money. She is persuaded by her management agency to attend parties to increase her exposure and to further her career prospects and Bay goes along to film it all. Anna worries herself sick continually about Nell and the danger she could be in but little do they know, their worst nightmare is just around the corner and unlike Nell, it ain't pretty. This is a compulsive, captivating and heartbreaking domestic drama about the disintegration of a blended family. When jealousy erupts between Nell and her stepsister, Bay, it becomes deeply disturbing. Bay feels like the black sheep and has turned from a once loving teen into an angst filled ball of rage which takes it toll on the Harts. Explosive secrets unravel before our eyes in a wickedly twisty and superbly plotted read in which the tension is palpable throughout building slowly but surely and the complex, multilayered narrative that becomes exponentially more chilling and enthralling as it progresses has you engrossed. Bay is willing to go to any length to try to gain attention from her parents as her envy over all of the attention Nell is receiving makes her resentful and devious. What could go wrong? Highly recommended.
Nell can't believe her luck but her parents are wary and are filled with concern that if they decide to allow her to work as a model that it will negatively impact her education. How can she prepare and ace exams if she is networking and often busy as well as being either out of the country on international photoshoots or away from home in another state? They decide to allow it as the money she earns will be able to help pay for her college course when the time comes and will teach her an important lesson – the value of money. She is persuaded by her management agency to attend parties to increase her exposure and to further her career prospects and Bay goes along to film it all. Anna worries herself sick continually about Nell and the danger she could be in but little do they know, their worst nightmare is just around the corner and unlike Nell, it ain't pretty. This is a compulsive, captivating and heartbreaking domestic drama about the disintegration of a blended family. When jealousy erupts between Nell and her stepsister, Bay, it becomes deeply disturbing. Bay feels like the black sheep and has turned from a once loving teen into an angst filled ball of rage which takes it toll on the Harts. Explosive secrets unravel before our eyes in a wickedly twisty and superbly plotted read in which the tension is palpable throughout building slowly but surely and the complex, multilayered narrative that becomes exponentially more chilling and enthralling as it progresses has you engrossed. Bay is willing to go to any length to try to gain attention from her parents as her envy over all of the attention Nell is receiving makes her resentful and devious. What could go wrong? Highly recommended.
February 1, 2021
I've never read anything from this author, but this blurb and cover caught my attention.
I enjoyed the short chapters, which kept the pace active, making it a page turner. I always enjoy books set in the UK, as well. I don't generally like first person POV stories, as few authors can do it well. Thankfully, that wasn't the case here. It was the best POV for this tale, as it allowed the reader to truly feel a part of the events.
The storyline and characters were well crafted. I wasn't as crazy about Bay as I was Nell, but it did work for the book. Some parts, including the ending, felt a bit rushed and like the author was trying to hurry up and tie it together.
If you're a fan of family dramas, you'll likely enjoy this book.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
I enjoyed the short chapters, which kept the pace active, making it a page turner. I always enjoy books set in the UK, as well. I don't generally like first person POV stories, as few authors can do it well. Thankfully, that wasn't the case here. It was the best POV for this tale, as it allowed the reader to truly feel a part of the events.
The storyline and characters were well crafted. I wasn't as crazy about Bay as I was Nell, but it did work for the book. Some parts, including the ending, felt a bit rushed and like the author was trying to hurry up and tie it together.
If you're a fan of family dramas, you'll likely enjoy this book.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
July 10, 2021
Psychological Fiction / Women's Psychological Fiction
Publication date : February 26, 2021
THE PRETTY ONE was not the pretty one for me.
I couldn't care for any of the main characters. Its disappointing that female authors create shallow, immature, self-involved, silly, nasty, uninspiring female protagonists! I disliked the way autor is switching back and forth between first person and third person. We are told about the events, instead of shown. I was never gripped and tried to be over with this story!
Publication date : February 26, 2021
THE PRETTY ONE was not the pretty one for me.
I couldn't care for any of the main characters. Its disappointing that female authors create shallow, immature, self-involved, silly, nasty, uninspiring female protagonists! I disliked the way autor is switching back and forth between first person and third person. We are told about the events, instead of shown. I was never gripped and tried to be over with this story!
August 4, 2021
3.5 STARS
Two sisters and a step-sister. You can just imagine the sibling rivalry from miles away.
Nell is the perfect child .. beautiful, lovable. Nell and Ivy are a source of pride to their mother, Anna. She treats Bay, the step-daughter, just as she treats her own children.
BOOK BLURB: Quiet, sensitive Nell doesn’t want to have her face on a billboard for all to see. But she knows her family desperately needs the money, and perhaps it would be nice to have her mother’s full attention for the first time since Bay arrived? Could this be the escape from her stepsister’s twisted games Nell has been longing for?
As cameras roll, a secret is revealed .. one that has the ability to rip this family to shreds. Anne is forced to pick a side .. but with what consequences?
As a family drams, this is well written with a few twists and turns along the way. Told by different characters gives a sense of discord and tension... I didn't like all the characters, and I think that was good plotting by the author. The ending, for me, kinda fizzled at the end. The big reveal wasn't that big a surprise.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this family drama. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Two sisters and a step-sister. You can just imagine the sibling rivalry from miles away.
Nell is the perfect child .. beautiful, lovable. Nell and Ivy are a source of pride to their mother, Anna. She treats Bay, the step-daughter, just as she treats her own children.
BOOK BLURB: Quiet, sensitive Nell doesn’t want to have her face on a billboard for all to see. But she knows her family desperately needs the money, and perhaps it would be nice to have her mother’s full attention for the first time since Bay arrived? Could this be the escape from her stepsister’s twisted games Nell has been longing for?
As cameras roll, a secret is revealed .. one that has the ability to rip this family to shreds. Anne is forced to pick a side .. but with what consequences?
As a family drams, this is well written with a few twists and turns along the way. Told by different characters gives a sense of discord and tension... I didn't like all the characters, and I think that was good plotting by the author. The ending, for me, kinda fizzled at the end. The big reveal wasn't that big a surprise.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this family drama. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
March 22, 2022
Review for 'The Pretty One' by Clare Boyd.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers.
Publication date 26th February 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 57 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in first person perspective with the main protagonists being Anna, Nell and Bay. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are, as long as they are well written, it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
This book is very well written with the power to completely draw you in. The synopsis fitted the storyline perfectly. I believe the fact that Clare herself had experience of the modelling world really helped to show the true insight into what goes on.
The storyline is extremely powerful, addictive and eye opening. It was very fast paced and many times I wanted to scream at both Nell and Bay. I couldn't read the book fast enough and was flipping the 'pages' until early in the morning. I was not expecting what was found in the hospital and what Bay had done!! I won't say any more than that as don't want to spoil it for future readers but I was absolutely shocked!! It was fascinating to get an inside view of what goes on in the modelling world but quite scary too as I've heard many similar true stories about what goes on 'behind the catwalk'. I believe the fact that this storyline is so realistic will help draw many readers in.
The characters are absolutely solid and compelling. I had such mixed feelings about Nell from frustration to concern, she went through so much and it must have been so hard for her to decide what was best. How many people would give it a try when offered the right amount of money? When you are offered such large amount of money to stand and smile its easy to lose grip of reality and get lost in a different world. Bay really annoyed me and by the end I actively couldn't stand her!! I started off by feeling sorry on her but she seems such a selfish character. Anna is a mixed bag and although I'm pleased by the ending I did have some sympathy towards Dom. I definitely felt sorry for Iris.
The only negative thing , in my view, is that the book seemed to have a rushed ending. There was so much going and then it just felt like I hit a wall. I struggled over whether to give 4/5 stars for this reason but I thought as I enjoyed the rest of the book so much it was a bit harsh so I want to give it a 4.5. However, as you can't give 1/2 ratings I am giving this book a 5/5. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this very talented author.
Overall an addictive, eye opening and powerful insight into the reality of the modelling world and how it can destroy families.
Genres covered in this novel include Family Drama amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone thinking of modelling and anyone looking for a fast paced addictive novel.
437 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#ThePrettyOne #Bookouture #ClareBoyd #NetGalley #BookReview
@ClareBoyd @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers.
Publication date 26th February 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 57 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in the UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in first person perspective with the main protagonists being Anna, Nell and Bay. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are, as long as they are well written, it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
This book is very well written with the power to completely draw you in. The synopsis fitted the storyline perfectly. I believe the fact that Clare herself had experience of the modelling world really helped to show the true insight into what goes on.
The storyline is extremely powerful, addictive and eye opening. It was very fast paced and many times I wanted to scream at both Nell and Bay. I couldn't read the book fast enough and was flipping the 'pages' until early in the morning. I was not expecting what was found in the hospital and what Bay had done!! I won't say any more than that as don't want to spoil it for future readers but I was absolutely shocked!! It was fascinating to get an inside view of what goes on in the modelling world but quite scary too as I've heard many similar true stories about what goes on 'behind the catwalk'. I believe the fact that this storyline is so realistic will help draw many readers in.
The characters are absolutely solid and compelling. I had such mixed feelings about Nell from frustration to concern, she went through so much and it must have been so hard for her to decide what was best. How many people would give it a try when offered the right amount of money? When you are offered such large amount of money to stand and smile its easy to lose grip of reality and get lost in a different world. Bay really annoyed me and by the end I actively couldn't stand her!! I started off by feeling sorry on her but she seems such a selfish character. Anna is a mixed bag and although I'm pleased by the ending I did have some sympathy towards Dom. I definitely felt sorry for Iris.
The only negative thing , in my view, is that the book seemed to have a rushed ending. There was so much going and then it just felt like I hit a wall. I struggled over whether to give 4/5 stars for this reason but I thought as I enjoyed the rest of the book so much it was a bit harsh so I want to give it a 4.5. However, as you can't give 1/2 ratings I am giving this book a 5/5. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this very talented author.
Overall an addictive, eye opening and powerful insight into the reality of the modelling world and how it can destroy families.
Genres covered in this novel include Family Drama amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone thinking of modelling and anyone looking for a fast paced addictive novel.
437 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#ThePrettyOne #Bookouture #ClareBoyd #NetGalley #BookReview
@ClareBoyd @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
February 26, 2021
Bay is 8-years-old and she will now live with her father, Dom, stepmother, Anna, and half-sisters Nell, 6, and Iris, 1. Anna is so happy to welcome Bay into their family and does all she can to help the young girl settle into her new home. Anna and Iris are very loving to her as well and are delighted to have a new sister.
One day when the girls were 16, 15, and 10, Anna takes them to see an exhibition at a museum. There, she notices a man who continues to stare at Nell who is a natural beauty with blonde hair. He introduces himself as a scout for a talent agency and hopes Nell would be interested in it. At first, Anna is totally against it, but Nell begs to be allowed to try out. Dom insists that Nell try out but Anna worries it will interfere with her studies.
Bay appears to be happy for Nell, but secretly she is going to try to trip her up. On the outside, Bay appears to be nice and loving, but over the years she has done many means and hurtful things to Nell and then lies about it.
As Nell becomes involved in the modeling scene, she encounters some really bad characters, but she wants to continue as she knows her Dad likes the money she can make.
This story is a bit overly long but it builds well. Bay and Nell have a secret that turns out to be so sad. Even though Nell acted out with her modeling social scene, I felt sorry for her. I wanted to simply kick Bay in the butt along with her Dad, Dom. Parents will see get a lot of insight into the minds of teens whether they are normal or not. Glad my sons are raised!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
One day when the girls were 16, 15, and 10, Anna takes them to see an exhibition at a museum. There, she notices a man who continues to stare at Nell who is a natural beauty with blonde hair. He introduces himself as a scout for a talent agency and hopes Nell would be interested in it. At first, Anna is totally against it, but Nell begs to be allowed to try out. Dom insists that Nell try out but Anna worries it will interfere with her studies.
Bay appears to be happy for Nell, but secretly she is going to try to trip her up. On the outside, Bay appears to be nice and loving, but over the years she has done many means and hurtful things to Nell and then lies about it.
As Nell becomes involved in the modeling scene, she encounters some really bad characters, but she wants to continue as she knows her Dad likes the money she can make.
This story is a bit overly long but it builds well. Bay and Nell have a secret that turns out to be so sad. Even though Nell acted out with her modeling social scene, I felt sorry for her. I wanted to simply kick Bay in the butt along with her Dad, Dom. Parents will see get a lot of insight into the minds of teens whether they are normal or not. Glad my sons are raised!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 4, 2021
The Pretty One by Clare Boyd was a disturbing yet compelling read. A family drama that revolves around barely-held-together relationships, sibling rivalry, secrets, loss of innocence and repressed trauma, the plot of this novel was, literally, a parent's nightmare and quite uncomfortable to get through.
Anna, Dom and their children Nell, Iris and Dom's daughter from his first marriage, Bay, live a seemingly pleasant life. Though on the surface everything looks hunky-dory, it is obvious from the get-go that all is not well between Bay and Nell. The family is held together by Anna's unconditional love and hard work. When Nell receives an offer to become a model, against her better judgement Anna agrees, as Dom convinces her that the pay would help secure Nell's future. From then on, things go downhill. Will Anna be able to resolve the cracks developing in her family or will their family end up broken beyond repair?
The story is said from the POV's of Anna, Nell and Bay. Anna is your typical housewife/mother. The author goes on and on about Anna's chores and her concerns about each member of her family. While initially I felt this was pointless, as it just dragged out the story, it also made me realise that this was actually Anna's entire existence - her chores, her taking care of everyone, her endless worrying about her mother and each of her children - to the point that she had lost sight of her own dreams and ambitions and her chance at true love. It was quite disheartening to see that despite all her attempts at loving her three kids equally, she failed to see how troubled they actually were, until things got worse.
The plot was extremely well-crafted with well written characters. I sympathised deeply with Nell, simply hated Bay and sometimes just wanted to shake Anna and ask her to 'Open your eyes and see, woman..!!!'
The story maintained a slow pace, building up tension with each page; the ending was, however, a bit rushed. I am not complaining, though, since Anna deserved her happy ending after all that drama.
A big thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Anna, Dom and their children Nell, Iris and Dom's daughter from his first marriage, Bay, live a seemingly pleasant life. Though on the surface everything looks hunky-dory, it is obvious from the get-go that all is not well between Bay and Nell. The family is held together by Anna's unconditional love and hard work. When Nell receives an offer to become a model, against her better judgement Anna agrees, as Dom convinces her that the pay would help secure Nell's future. From then on, things go downhill. Will Anna be able to resolve the cracks developing in her family or will their family end up broken beyond repair?
The story is said from the POV's of Anna, Nell and Bay. Anna is your typical housewife/mother. The author goes on and on about Anna's chores and her concerns about each member of her family. While initially I felt this was pointless, as it just dragged out the story, it also made me realise that this was actually Anna's entire existence - her chores, her taking care of everyone, her endless worrying about her mother and each of her children - to the point that she had lost sight of her own dreams and ambitions and her chance at true love. It was quite disheartening to see that despite all her attempts at loving her three kids equally, she failed to see how troubled they actually were, until things got worse.
The plot was extremely well-crafted with well written characters. I sympathised deeply with Nell, simply hated Bay and sometimes just wanted to shake Anna and ask her to 'Open your eyes and see, woman..!!!'
The story maintained a slow pace, building up tension with each page; the ending was, however, a bit rushed. I am not complaining, though, since Anna deserved her happy ending after all that drama.
A big thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2021
No connection with any character and horrible parenting. 2 stars for the ability to read the whole thing.
May 12, 2023
The novel is well written, with imperfect characters that feel like actual people and the story is a well-rendered dark dysfunctional family drama. But it is the comprehensive knowledge of the fashion industry and its use as backdrop that raises this story to something really very believable and at times genuinely upsetting. I really felt for all the characters, particularly Anna, the mother of Nell, who is chosen by a modelling agency. Anna must think of her other daughters, her husband, her mother, whilst negotiating the universal dilemmas all parents face, when do we loosen the apron strings? What, if anything, can we do to protect our children in the big wide world? When is too soon to let go? What is protection and what is control? Anna finds herself facing these questions like any parent, except for her, everything is ramped up too fast and I felt her stress very keenly as events ploughed forward and she found herself to be less and less in command. As for Nell, I found myself almost reading through my fingers, whilst wanting to shout 'No!' Even when I was not turning the pages, I was thinking about Anna and her family and worrying about how it would all work out.
July 21, 2021
This book was all about complex familial relationships and sibling rivalry with secrets tearing them apart. The book had emotions with the scenes bordering on the darker, dysfunctional side. The prose was erratic in its pace, but kept me going. Overall, a good read.
January 30, 2021
Just wow! This book broke my heart into a million little pieces and then put it back together like one of those jigsaw puzzles you think can never be finished! Boyd's wry sense of humor captivated me from the beginning and propelled me back to my own past and the challenges of motherhood, raising daughters; as they turn into teens they can be sweet and saucy one day, and the next day sulky and sullen. Anna must deal with her daughter, Nell and stepdaughter Bay--and because she doesn't know the dark secrets that ties their childhoods together--she is at a crossroad when Nell is offered a modeling job at 15. Boyd speaks to so many themes: the challenges in marriage, lost love, jealousy, sacrifice, bottled-up emotions, body shaming, and sexual exploitation as young girls get sucked into fame and social media capitalizes on their vulnerability. Anna wants nothing more than for her daughters to be happy but where does one draw the line to keep them safe and yet let them experience life? It reminded me of a Moss Hart quote: "There is nothing like tasting the grit of fear for rediscovering that the umbilical cord is made of piano wire." This is one of the best books I've ever read (and I read A LOT)! I can't wait for her next one! This is one not to be missed!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
February 9, 2021
From the outside, Anna’s life looks perfect. Married to her husband Dom, running a small millinery business, and mother to three lovely daughters – two by birth, and one stepdaughter. But she loves Bay just as much as she loves her biological daughters Nell and Iris… right?
The novel begins with the pivotal encounter that is the catalyst for the family’s unraveling. Teenage Nell is spotted at a gallery by a scout for a modeling agency. Nell is thrust into the modeling world, forcing Anna to upend her life to chaperone Nell on calls across Britain and even internationally. The story explores the dark and dangerous underbelly of modeling – sexual exploitation, body shaming, eating disorders, partying, and underage drinking/drugs.
Nell’s modeling career also causes drama between her and Bay. Bay is jealous of the attention Nell is getting, not to mention the fact that it takes Nell’s attention away from her. Only eighteen months apart in age, the stepsisters are close, but the foundation their relationship is built on dark secrets… secrets that are threatening to destroy this blended family. What lengths will Bay go to in order to keep her family’s attention and affection?
This story is billed as dark and emotional, and it definitely is! Although this book was a tad slow to start (and a little too fast to wrap up at the end), it drew me in before too long. The story is told from alternating viewpoints between Anna, Nell, and Bay, and interspersed with some flashbacks to when the girls are young. Each character’s voice is distinct and rings true. The insider view of the modeling industry feels authentic too. As a mother myself, I felt sick watching Nell get sucked into seedy environments, cringing as she made one bad choice after another. I felt Anna’s anxiety and despair as Nell grew more rebellious and out of control, while Dom enables Nell’s behavior and because her modeling was so financially lucrative. My sense of dread grew steadily as the story unfolded and the characters’ relationships fractured.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The novel begins with the pivotal encounter that is the catalyst for the family’s unraveling. Teenage Nell is spotted at a gallery by a scout for a modeling agency. Nell is thrust into the modeling world, forcing Anna to upend her life to chaperone Nell on calls across Britain and even internationally. The story explores the dark and dangerous underbelly of modeling – sexual exploitation, body shaming, eating disorders, partying, and underage drinking/drugs.
Nell’s modeling career also causes drama between her and Bay. Bay is jealous of the attention Nell is getting, not to mention the fact that it takes Nell’s attention away from her. Only eighteen months apart in age, the stepsisters are close, but the foundation their relationship is built on dark secrets… secrets that are threatening to destroy this blended family. What lengths will Bay go to in order to keep her family’s attention and affection?
This story is billed as dark and emotional, and it definitely is! Although this book was a tad slow to start (and a little too fast to wrap up at the end), it drew me in before too long. The story is told from alternating viewpoints between Anna, Nell, and Bay, and interspersed with some flashbacks to when the girls are young. Each character’s voice is distinct and rings true. The insider view of the modeling industry feels authentic too. As a mother myself, I felt sick watching Nell get sucked into seedy environments, cringing as she made one bad choice after another. I felt Anna’s anxiety and despair as Nell grew more rebellious and out of control, while Dom enables Nell’s behavior and because her modeling was so financially lucrative. My sense of dread grew steadily as the story unfolded and the characters’ relationships fractured.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2021
This is an interesting take on family dynamics and relationships with dramas. Nell is a beautiful teen girl who has been asked to model. Her step sister Bay, is jealous of the attention and of Nell, so she sets out to prove herself in her own way and in return damages the family on a whole other level. The parents, Anna and Dom are already struggling, so when all this comes to a head, including secrets from the past, it is hard for them to recover.
This took a bit to get going, but once it did, it was quite intense. The characters were well developed and it really delves into the unseen side of the modeling world.
It won’t be for everyone-there are definitely some triggers, but it is worth the read.
Thanks to netgalley and bookouture for this arc in exchange for my review.
This took a bit to get going, but once it did, it was quite intense. The characters were well developed and it really delves into the unseen side of the modeling world.
It won’t be for everyone-there are definitely some triggers, but it is worth the read.
Thanks to netgalley and bookouture for this arc in exchange for my review.
February 26, 2021
Having read some of Clare Boyd’s previous books I was really looking forward to reading this latest one, and I can honestly say I was not disappointed.
Anna is a mum, who is struggling to juggle everything. She has two daughters, one step-daughter, a needy Mother, a husband who leaves most of the family dramas to her and a hat making business. One day whilst sitting in a cafe Anna’s daughter is spotted my a model scout.
On returning home Anna has many concerns about the model world and decides that Nell shouldn’t contact the agency but her husband Dom thinks it’s too good an opportunity to give up. Anna is not only concerned about the effect on Nell but also how it will affect her stepdaughter, Bay.
Anna finally gives in and Nell is suddenly thrown into the world of modelling, with Anna following behind her. But will Anna be able to control the effect the business will have on Nell and what will Bay’s reaction be ?
This is a great family drama with some harrowing storylines but I absolutely loved it. Not only does it show the ups and downs in a modelling career but also the effect of sibling rivalry that can have far reaching implications. I loved Anna and Nell, and was really hoping that everything would turn out good in the end. This book will have you eagerly turning the pages so you can find out what happens next.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital copy of this book.
Anna is a mum, who is struggling to juggle everything. She has two daughters, one step-daughter, a needy Mother, a husband who leaves most of the family dramas to her and a hat making business. One day whilst sitting in a cafe Anna’s daughter is spotted my a model scout.
On returning home Anna has many concerns about the model world and decides that Nell shouldn’t contact the agency but her husband Dom thinks it’s too good an opportunity to give up. Anna is not only concerned about the effect on Nell but also how it will affect her stepdaughter, Bay.
Anna finally gives in and Nell is suddenly thrown into the world of modelling, with Anna following behind her. But will Anna be able to control the effect the business will have on Nell and what will Bay’s reaction be ?
This is a great family drama with some harrowing storylines but I absolutely loved it. Not only does it show the ups and downs in a modelling career but also the effect of sibling rivalry that can have far reaching implications. I loved Anna and Nell, and was really hoping that everything would turn out good in the end. This book will have you eagerly turning the pages so you can find out what happens next.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for a digital copy of this book.
May 6, 2021
Anna is truly the most incapable mother I have ever read about. Poor Nell!
June 21, 2021
New author for me, which is what made me give this book a go as I’m always keen to try/discover new authors.
So on the whole it was a good story, well written albeit it being a bit drawn out in places and so some chapters were slow going than others. However I do have mixed feelings about this story, the main thing being is that I feel like there should have been some trigger warnings mentioned within the book blurb. I won’t go into too much detail as don’t want to risk spoilers but basically the devastating secret that Bay and Nell have between them and which eventually comes to light later in the story is of a nature (in my option) that some readers may find disturbing and upsetting, or in my case, it made me feel dizzy and lightheaded just from reading about it. I literally had to stop reading for a bit and when I did go back to the story, I had to scrim read the last few chapters.
The story was told from three different characters, being Anna, Nell and Bay, I liked how the author did this, as it gave us a more in-depth insight into each of these three main characters.
Having read other reader's reviews of this book, I am glad to see that there are a lot of readers that did indeed enjoy this book, which to me, means it is true what they say, certain books just aren't for everyone.
So on the whole it was a good story, well written albeit it being a bit drawn out in places and so some chapters were slow going than others. However I do have mixed feelings about this story, the main thing being is that I feel like there should have been some trigger warnings mentioned within the book blurb. I won’t go into too much detail as don’t want to risk spoilers but basically the devastating secret that Bay and Nell have between them and which eventually comes to light later in the story is of a nature (in my option) that some readers may find disturbing and upsetting, or in my case, it made me feel dizzy and lightheaded just from reading about it. I literally had to stop reading for a bit and when I did go back to the story, I had to scrim read the last few chapters.
The story was told from three different characters, being Anna, Nell and Bay, I liked how the author did this, as it gave us a more in-depth insight into each of these three main characters.
Having read other reader's reviews of this book, I am glad to see that there are a lot of readers that did indeed enjoy this book, which to me, means it is true what they say, certain books just aren't for everyone.
February 26, 2021
First, I want to thank Clare Boyd, Bookouture, and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Clare Boyd’s The Pretty One goes inside and shows you what the modeling world is really like. It is an extremely eye opening book that is incredibly dark.
There are so many important life lessons and important topics in The Pretty One. Some are self mutilation, rape, loosing your virginity, infidelity, etc.
Oh there was a point in this book where I was just livid. Nell was being told that her size was too big and they would have to promote her another way! A size 10 in the USA is not fat by any means. Putting someone down for their weight messes with their self esteem big time. I should know as I was once 303lbs.
Clare’s strongest writing has to be the very climatic ending of the book.
The Pretty One is broken up into sections of the book.
Like Nell Clare was into modeling and had her share of horror stories as well.
Clare Boyd’s The Pretty One goes inside and shows you what the modeling world is really like. It is an extremely eye opening book that is incredibly dark.
There are so many important life lessons and important topics in The Pretty One. Some are self mutilation, rape, loosing your virginity, infidelity, etc.
Oh there was a point in this book where I was just livid. Nell was being told that her size was too big and they would have to promote her another way! A size 10 in the USA is not fat by any means. Putting someone down for their weight messes with their self esteem big time. I should know as I was once 303lbs.
Clare’s strongest writing has to be the very climatic ending of the book.
The Pretty One is broken up into sections of the book.
Like Nell Clare was into modeling and had her share of horror stories as well.
February 3, 2021
Most mothers realize that they are only as happy as their least happy child. This is what drives Anna in hew quest to make her blended family as happy as possible. With little support she comes to realize that her balancing act is not working and wonders how will she keep them all close and safe. When one of the girls is singled out for her beauty what will happen to the other two? Secrets abound in this domestic family drama.
June 14, 2021
This book was strange and different. I spent most of it not sure what the story was meant to be about. A mother daughter relationship? Sibling relationship? The modelling world? It did all come to together in the end but it felt like it took a while to get there.
February 26, 2021
Absolutely absorbing- a rollercoaster read packed with twists. The writer deftly weaves us in, the characters gripping our attention so we are reading with bated breath until the last gripping page. Wonderful. A bestseller for sure.
February 4, 2021
The Pretty One by Clare Boyd was a disturbing yet compelling read. A family drama that revolves around barely-held-together relationships, sibling rivalry, secrets, loss of innocence and repressed trauma, the plot of this novel was, literally, a parent's nightmare and quite uncomfortable to get through.
Anna, Dom and their children Nell, Iris and Dom's daughter from his first marriage, Bay, live a seemingly pleasant life. Though on the surface everything looks hunky-dory, it is obvious from the get-go that all is not well between Bay and Nell. The family is held together by Anna's unconditional love and hard work. When Nell receives an offer to become a model, against her better judgement Anna agrees, as Dom convinces her that the pay would help secure Nell's future. From then on, things go downhill. Will Anna be able to resolve the cracks developing in her family or will their family end up broken beyond repair?
The story is said from the POV's of Anna, Nell and Bay. Anna is your typical housewife/mother. The author goes on and on about Anna's chores and her concerns about each member of her family. While initially I felt this was pointless, as it just dragged out the story, it also made me realise that this was actually Anna's entire existence - her chores, her taking care of everyone, her endless worrying about her mother and each of her children - to the point that she had lost sight of her own dreams and ambitions and her chance at true love. It was quite disheartening to see that despite all her attempts at loving her three kids equally, she failed to see how troubled they actually were, until things got worse.
The plot was extremely well-crafted with well written characters. I sympathised deeply with Nell, simply hated Bay and sometimes just wanted to shake Anna and ask her to 'Open your eyes and see, woman..!!!'
The story maintained a slow pace, building up tension with each page; the ending was, however, a bit rushed. I am not complaining, though, since Anna deserved her happy ending after all that drama.
A big thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Anna, Dom and their children Nell, Iris and Dom's daughter from his first marriage, Bay, live a seemingly pleasant life. Though on the surface everything looks hunky-dory, it is obvious from the get-go that all is not well between Bay and Nell. The family is held together by Anna's unconditional love and hard work. When Nell receives an offer to become a model, against her better judgement Anna agrees, as Dom convinces her that the pay would help secure Nell's future. From then on, things go downhill. Will Anna be able to resolve the cracks developing in her family or will their family end up broken beyond repair?
The story is said from the POV's of Anna, Nell and Bay. Anna is your typical housewife/mother. The author goes on and on about Anna's chores and her concerns about each member of her family. While initially I felt this was pointless, as it just dragged out the story, it also made me realise that this was actually Anna's entire existence - her chores, her taking care of everyone, her endless worrying about her mother and each of her children - to the point that she had lost sight of her own dreams and ambitions and her chance at true love. It was quite disheartening to see that despite all her attempts at loving her three kids equally, she failed to see how troubled they actually were, until things got worse.
The plot was extremely well-crafted with well written characters. I sympathised deeply with Nell, simply hated Bay and sometimes just wanted to shake Anna and ask her to 'Open your eyes and see, woman..!!!'
The story maintained a slow pace, building up tension with each page; the ending was, however, a bit rushed. I am not complaining, though, since Anna deserved her happy ending after all that drama.
A big thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2021
So emotionally charged from beginning to end. A story chronicling the pain and passion of trying to blend a family, loving people who try and fail to love in the right way. The rise and fall of success in the modeling world and a moms vigilance to protect her daughter. Failing to see what's going on in her own home. Gripping and couldn't put it down. Haunting me are the unanswered questions, and I want more.
March 20, 2021
This book is described as “a dark, emotional and absolutely gripping page-turner.” Please believe the “dark” and “emotional” adjectives if you are considering reading this novel. For those who are uncomfortable with rather explicit sexual content, you may want to pass on this offering.
In The Pretty One, the author has stripped away the façade of a relatively happy, blended family to reveal the dark underbelly of serious dysfunction. Anna and Dom Hart seem like typical middle class parents with two daughters, Nell and Iris, complete with a house in the English countryside. Both are maintaining a fragile detente in their relationship. Dom is dissatisfied with his lot in life; Anna has sacrificed her dream for her own career; and both have had to accommodate their family and home life to include Bay, Dom’s daughter from his first marriage. Add in Anna’s neurotic mother and you have a cast of characters that are intriguing and, for the most part, unsympathetic.
Nell, at age 15, is “discovered” by a booking agent for a modelling agency. As she embarks on this path, the underlying tensions in the family rise and eventually reach the breaking point. Stoked by Dom’s greed and desire to experience success vicariously through his daughter and haunted by Bay’s passive-aggressive jealousy, Nell soon finds herself swept away into a world of parties populated by lecherous, older men. I have no personal knowledge of the teen modeling scene, but given the prevailing cultural climate, the author’s description of the manipulation and exploitation associated with this field is both believable and horrifying.
As the storyline slowly progresses through first person accounts by Anna, Nell and Bay, many themes of emotional and physical abuse are revealed. Co-dependency is rampant within this family and huge mistakes are made under the guise of love. There is some redemption in the conclusion, which seems a bit rushed after pages and pages exploring past and present drama.
For all of the above reasons, I found this book an exceedingly challenging read. In a paradoxical way, my discomfort with so much of the content also reflects the author’s skill in evoking strong emotional responses through her writing. Overall, this was not a pleasant reading experience and one I don’t recommend.
My thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing a digital ARC in exchange for an independent, honest review.
In The Pretty One, the author has stripped away the façade of a relatively happy, blended family to reveal the dark underbelly of serious dysfunction. Anna and Dom Hart seem like typical middle class parents with two daughters, Nell and Iris, complete with a house in the English countryside. Both are maintaining a fragile detente in their relationship. Dom is dissatisfied with his lot in life; Anna has sacrificed her dream for her own career; and both have had to accommodate their family and home life to include Bay, Dom’s daughter from his first marriage. Add in Anna’s neurotic mother and you have a cast of characters that are intriguing and, for the most part, unsympathetic.
Nell, at age 15, is “discovered” by a booking agent for a modelling agency. As she embarks on this path, the underlying tensions in the family rise and eventually reach the breaking point. Stoked by Dom’s greed and desire to experience success vicariously through his daughter and haunted by Bay’s passive-aggressive jealousy, Nell soon finds herself swept away into a world of parties populated by lecherous, older men. I have no personal knowledge of the teen modeling scene, but given the prevailing cultural climate, the author’s description of the manipulation and exploitation associated with this field is both believable and horrifying.
As the storyline slowly progresses through first person accounts by Anna, Nell and Bay, many themes of emotional and physical abuse are revealed. Co-dependency is rampant within this family and huge mistakes are made under the guise of love. There is some redemption in the conclusion, which seems a bit rushed after pages and pages exploring past and present drama.
For all of the above reasons, I found this book an exceedingly challenging read. In a paradoxical way, my discomfort with so much of the content also reflects the author’s skill in evoking strong emotional responses through her writing. Overall, this was not a pleasant reading experience and one I don’t recommend.
My thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing a digital ARC in exchange for an independent, honest review.
March 10, 2021
I couldn’t wait for this book to end; I hate to not finish a book! It started out interesting with the usual family dynamics, with an older step sibling thrown in. I’m not certain that the modeling world is as harsh as depicted, but it wouldn’t surprise me.
February 26, 2021
ESP:
No esperaba que me fuese a gustar tanto este libro!
Es un "family drama" y pues vamos siguiendo la vida de este matrimonio que tiene 2 hijas en común y una hija de un matrimonio anterior y todo lo que ello supone.
Tengo 0 quejas sobre el estilo narrativo o de la construcción de personajes. Cada capítulo, narrado bien por la madre, la hija o la hijastra aportaba algo diferente y hacía que quisiera leer más.
No le doy las 5 estrellas, pero creo que queda claro que me ha gustado muchísimo y el enganche era real.
Lo único que hay que tener en cuenta es que es un libro "lento", en el sentido de que vamos siguiendo el día a día de esta familia y su crisis que se va cociendo a fuego lento. Y quizás a alguien le pueda parecer aburrido.
ENG:
This family drama got my attention from page one and had me until the very last one. Not only I wanted to keep reading and know more about the story, but I found myself thinking about it while I wasn't reading.
I have nothing negative to say about the writing or about how the characters are built. Actually, I don't have anything negative to say about the whole book.
Perhaps the only thing I'd say, is that this might not be everyone's cup of tea. Mainly because it revolves around the drama and tension of this family and how everything changes bit by bit. And I reckon, some might find this boring. But I'm definitely not talking from my point of view. Just stating this for others.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
No esperaba que me fuese a gustar tanto este libro!
Es un "family drama" y pues vamos siguiendo la vida de este matrimonio que tiene 2 hijas en común y una hija de un matrimonio anterior y todo lo que ello supone.
Tengo 0 quejas sobre el estilo narrativo o de la construcción de personajes. Cada capítulo, narrado bien por la madre, la hija o la hijastra aportaba algo diferente y hacía que quisiera leer más.
No le doy las 5 estrellas, pero creo que queda claro que me ha gustado muchísimo y el enganche era real.
Lo único que hay que tener en cuenta es que es un libro "lento", en el sentido de que vamos siguiendo el día a día de esta familia y su crisis que se va cociendo a fuego lento. Y quizás a alguien le pueda parecer aburrido.
ENG:
This family drama got my attention from page one and had me until the very last one. Not only I wanted to keep reading and know more about the story, but I found myself thinking about it while I wasn't reading.
I have nothing negative to say about the writing or about how the characters are built. Actually, I don't have anything negative to say about the whole book.
Perhaps the only thing I'd say, is that this might not be everyone's cup of tea. Mainly because it revolves around the drama and tension of this family and how everything changes bit by bit. And I reckon, some might find this boring. But I'm definitely not talking from my point of view. Just stating this for others.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
February 28, 2021
The Pretty One is a well written family drama that explores the lives of a blended family seemingly well-adjusted but with so much more going on in the background. It explores the forces of outside pressures, money, hormonal teens, and temptations and how they can change and damage the bonds of family dynamics.
The author manages to maintain a sense of taut suspense throughout. We know something transpired between the stepsisters early on, but we're not sure of the extent of it. I was not sure this type of behind the scenes of modeling was cliché or real-life based, but when I read the author's letter to the reader, I appreciated that the story was informed by her experience.
There was good character development for the main narrators (Anna, Nell and Bay) as well as Anna's mom. I couldn't quite get a handle on the dad, which was telling in itself. And then there was the youngest daughter, Iris, almost non-existent as a character, but cued in to a lot of the family happenings. There were some uncomfortable moments in the book, and kudos to the author for making us feel them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced reading copy for review.
The author manages to maintain a sense of taut suspense throughout. We know something transpired between the stepsisters early on, but we're not sure of the extent of it. I was not sure this type of behind the scenes of modeling was cliché or real-life based, but when I read the author's letter to the reader, I appreciated that the story was informed by her experience.
There was good character development for the main narrators (Anna, Nell and Bay) as well as Anna's mom. I couldn't quite get a handle on the dad, which was telling in itself. And then there was the youngest daughter, Iris, almost non-existent as a character, but cued in to a lot of the family happenings. There were some uncomfortable moments in the book, and kudos to the author for making us feel them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced reading copy for review.
March 17, 2021
I LOVED this bookg
I don't want to say a lot about this book because everything I keep wanting to write will give things away. I'm a big psychological thriller reader and this was a great change for me. It kept my attention and I kept flipping, flipping, flipping those pages. I thought the characters were well fleshed out, I could picture them when I'd close my
eyes. This book is the only book I highlighted paragraphs in. I felt like the mothers life felt very similar to mine. Even had me feeling melancholy at spots. There are definitely characters you will dislike and others you're just not sure what to think. I will definitely read something else by this author. I don't hand out 5 stars very often and this wasn't even my genre. It was a fast read for me because as I said I couldn't put the book down. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Definitely my cuppa tea.
I don't want to say a lot about this book because everything I keep wanting to write will give things away. I'm a big psychological thriller reader and this was a great change for me. It kept my attention and I kept flipping, flipping, flipping those pages. I thought the characters were well fleshed out, I could picture them when I'd close my
eyes. This book is the only book I highlighted paragraphs in. I felt like the mothers life felt very similar to mine. Even had me feeling melancholy at spots. There are definitely characters you will dislike and others you're just not sure what to think. I will definitely read something else by this author. I don't hand out 5 stars very often and this wasn't even my genre. It was a fast read for me because as I said I couldn't put the book down. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Definitely my cuppa tea.
March 23, 2022
I really tried to like this book but it just wasn’t good. It’s very slow, there’s minimal buildup to the twist, and the twist is just boring. None of the characters are likable, not one. Maybe that was intentional but it just made the read more cumbersome. Loathe the mum, dad, Nell, Bay, even Iris, who btw is supposed to be 12 I think but is written as if she’s 5/6. 1/5 wouldn’t recommend. At least it was free!
March 21, 2021
Oh geeze
Book. Is. A slice of life where all the. Stupid. People. Making. Mistakes. hollow. People who. Can't. Stand .up for. Themselves. So much. Fragility. In the. Minds of all characters. I guess. People this ridiculous. live somewhere I hope. The. Don't exist. Just a horrible. Story. About. Horrible people.
Book. Is. A slice of life where all the. Stupid. People. Making. Mistakes. hollow. People who. Can't. Stand .up for. Themselves. So much. Fragility. In the. Minds of all characters. I guess. People this ridiculous. live somewhere I hope. The. Don't exist. Just a horrible. Story. About. Horrible people.
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