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The Playgroup
Breath catches in my throat and terror grips me as my daughter’s favourite jumper slides into focus. Time slows. Helpless, I watch my precious little girl run into the road. Screeching tyres slice through the quiet afternoon. Days from now, my friends will say the worst day of my life was all my fault…
A bright and welcoming haven, the playgroup sits at the heart of the town, tucked away inside a red-brick building. The Nest should have been the safest place for my rosy-cheeked, pink-obsessed daughter, Florence. Run by mothers like me, I trusted my newfound friends – Alice, Beth and Georgie – to take care of my child. But now my choice has left Florence fighting for her life.
My heart pounds thinking about what I will tell my husband, James. He stayed with me through the darkest times, and I thought some space would bring us closer. But as I watch our little girl sleeping in a hospital bed, I know our relationship may never recover from this.
How can I tell James what really happened if I don’t know myself? I can’t shake the feeling the other mothers are lying to me; they know I’d never let Florence leave the nursery by herself. We’ve all got dangerous secrets we want to protect, but if they expose mine, will anyone, including my husband, believe me when I say I didn’t harm my daughter?
A completely gripping psychological suspense about the dark price of protecting your family, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Adele Parks and Sally Hepworth.
A bright and welcoming haven, the playgroup sits at the heart of the town, tucked away inside a red-brick building. The Nest should have been the safest place for my rosy-cheeked, pink-obsessed daughter, Florence. Run by mothers like me, I trusted my newfound friends – Alice, Beth and Georgie – to take care of my child. But now my choice has left Florence fighting for her life.
My heart pounds thinking about what I will tell my husband, James. He stayed with me through the darkest times, and I thought some space would bring us closer. But as I watch our little girl sleeping in a hospital bed, I know our relationship may never recover from this.
How can I tell James what really happened if I don’t know myself? I can’t shake the feeling the other mothers are lying to me; they know I’d never let Florence leave the nursery by herself. We’ve all got dangerous secrets we want to protect, but if they expose mine, will anyone, including my husband, believe me when I say I didn’t harm my daughter?
A completely gripping psychological suspense about the dark price of protecting your family, perfect for fans of Liane Moriarty, Adele Parks and Sally Hepworth.
256 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2024
875 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Leah Mercer
21 books248 followersLeah can't remember a time when she didn't love writing. From creating fake newspapers to writing letters to the editor, scribbling something was always on the agenda. Even the rejections she received after completing her first novel at age 13 didn't dent her enthusiasm.
So it makes sense, then, that she pursued a career in anything but writing. Public relations, teaching, recruitment, editing medical journals -- even a stint painting houses -- until she finally succumbed once more to the lure of the blank page.
When she's not being jumped on by her young son or burning supper while thinking of plot-lines, Leah can be found furiously tapping away on her laptop, trying not to check Twitter or Facebook.
Leah also writes romantic comedies under the name Talli Roland.
So it makes sense, then, that she pursued a career in anything but writing. Public relations, teaching, recruitment, editing medical journals -- even a stint painting houses -- until she finally succumbed once more to the lure of the blank page.
When she's not being jumped on by her young son or burning supper while thinking of plot-lines, Leah can be found furiously tapping away on her laptop, trying not to check Twitter or Facebook.
Leah also writes romantic comedies under the name Talli Roland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
March 7, 2024
In the shadowy confines of "The Playgroup," Leah Mercer weaves a tale that ensnares the heart and ensnares the mind. This psychological thriller is not just a book—it's a journey into the labyrinth of the human psyche, where mental health is the minotaur lurking in the dark corners of societal stigma.
Mercer masterfully portrays a mother's harrowing odyssey through postpartum depression, a tempest that threatens to engulf her very soul. The story erupts with an car accident that sears the pages—a child, Florence, fighting for her life, and her mother, ensnared in a web of guilt and doubt, facing the specter of blame for the calamity.
As the narrative unfurls, it lays bare the cruel reality that those grappling with mental health challenges are often cast as scapegoats, their suffering compounded by a world that turns a blind eye, leaving them adrift in an ocean of isolation. The protagonist's plight is a stark beacon, illuminating the urgent need for empathy and understanding for those dealing with mental health issues.
Yet, amidst the novel's rich tapestry of psychological exploration, I still find the ending lacking the same complexity that Mercer so deftly spins throughout. The antagonist emerges as a cliché, a one-dimensional figure that dims the novel's brilliance, leaving me yearning for a finale that delivers a more thought-provoking and unexpected twist.
Despite this, "The Playgroup" remains an unputdownable force, a clarion call to shatter the chains of prejudice that bind the discourse on mental health.
My sincere gratitude to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to review a pre-publication copy of the book and offer my honest evaluation.
Mercer masterfully portrays a mother's harrowing odyssey through postpartum depression, a tempest that threatens to engulf her very soul. The story erupts with an car accident that sears the pages—a child, Florence, fighting for her life, and her mother, ensnared in a web of guilt and doubt, facing the specter of blame for the calamity.
As the narrative unfurls, it lays bare the cruel reality that those grappling with mental health challenges are often cast as scapegoats, their suffering compounded by a world that turns a blind eye, leaving them adrift in an ocean of isolation. The protagonist's plight is a stark beacon, illuminating the urgent need for empathy and understanding for those dealing with mental health issues.
Yet, amidst the novel's rich tapestry of psychological exploration, I still find the ending lacking the same complexity that Mercer so deftly spins throughout. The antagonist emerges as a cliché, a one-dimensional figure that dims the novel's brilliance, leaving me yearning for a finale that delivers a more thought-provoking and unexpected twist.
Despite this, "The Playgroup" remains an unputdownable force, a clarion call to shatter the chains of prejudice that bind the discourse on mental health.
My sincere gratitude to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to review a pre-publication copy of the book and offer my honest evaluation.
did-not-finish
March 27, 2024DNF at 20%
(E-ARC)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Leah Mercer and Bookouture for letting me have an E-ARC of this book before publication date. Thanks for letting me give my honest review of this book.
I have always wanted to get into thrillers so when I saw this on NetGalley this piqued my interest and was excited to see that my request had been approved by Bookouture. I did not know what to expect, but was intrigued that this was about a nursery. Unfortunately I had to dnf around the 20% mark. for many reasons which I am going to highlight down below.
This book was about a place that was welcoming to mothers who needed a fresh start called the Nest. This was where mothers came together to run this place along with nursery staff. But everyone one of them had secrets. Until one day the main character called Lenore goes to pick up her daughter from nursery only to see her pink jumper slide into focus. She watches as her little daughter runs into the road and there is nothing she can do other than watch her daughter get run over. Little does she know that her worst day is going to be the day everyone blames her for what happened.
From the very start, I had problems with this book. From the introduction of the nursery the fact that there were volunteers that went into the nursery on a rota screamed alarm bells. I know this is fictional but how did they know who was coming in and out of the building? It could have been anyone who knows? Furthermore, there WERE huge safeguarding issues in this book. Even before the incident there were major issues such as using the phones in the nursery (even when children have left they are not to be in the room at all), CCTV forgetting to be switched on by a member of staff etc. Codes and keys were not even remembered too so who knows if they were being used at all.
When the incident happened, I was confused and angry on why it happened but then with the things I saw I was not surprised at all. For the child to get out onto the main road, it looked like the child was not looked after or they were vigilant. After the incident, the two nursery staff were adamant it was not them and that they were in the garden.. They had no idea how she got out. As someone who has worked in nurseries and in different settings, this made me so mad. No matter what you do you always do headcounts in the building, outside the building and making sure they get safely to the garden and to keep an eye on the children. Children's safety is paramount. After the incident, I expected the nursery to close and the rest of the children to be sent home but they were not. It did not feel right.
When the manager came to the nursery after getting a phone call off one of the staff, I thought that the manager would be mortified and would want to know the truth. Instead she wanted to hide the truth because she wanted to hide a huge secret about the nursery that nobody knew. At that point I had enough and dnf it because I felt it was messed up. She also told one of the workers that it was okay to slip up and she was doing amazing. That is so messed up and NO WAY should a nursery manager be saying that. That was my last straw.
Although this book was fast paced and full of twists and turns, this book had problems and I would not recommend this to anyone in my opinion. This book definitely needs trigger warnings which were not present in this book at all. This left me feeling uncomfortable even after 20% in. I really wish the author had done more research on this. With this being my first thriller, I have been left feeling very disappointed.
(E-ARC)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Leah Mercer and Bookouture for letting me have an E-ARC of this book before publication date. Thanks for letting me give my honest review of this book.
I have always wanted to get into thrillers so when I saw this on NetGalley this piqued my interest and was excited to see that my request had been approved by Bookouture. I did not know what to expect, but was intrigued that this was about a nursery. Unfortunately I had to dnf around the 20% mark. for many reasons which I am going to highlight down below.
This book was about a place that was welcoming to mothers who needed a fresh start called the Nest. This was where mothers came together to run this place along with nursery staff. But everyone one of them had secrets. Until one day the main character called Lenore goes to pick up her daughter from nursery only to see her pink jumper slide into focus. She watches as her little daughter runs into the road and there is nothing she can do other than watch her daughter get run over. Little does she know that her worst day is going to be the day everyone blames her for what happened.
From the very start, I had problems with this book. From the introduction of the nursery the fact that there were volunteers that went into the nursery on a rota screamed alarm bells. I know this is fictional but how did they know who was coming in and out of the building? It could have been anyone who knows? Furthermore, there WERE huge safeguarding issues in this book. Even before the incident there were major issues such as using the phones in the nursery (even when children have left they are not to be in the room at all), CCTV forgetting to be switched on by a member of staff etc. Codes and keys were not even remembered too so who knows if they were being used at all.
When the incident happened, I was confused and angry on why it happened but then with the things I saw I was not surprised at all. For the child to get out onto the main road, it looked like the child was not looked after or they were vigilant. After the incident, the two nursery staff were adamant it was not them and that they were in the garden.. They had no idea how she got out. As someone who has worked in nurseries and in different settings, this made me so mad. No matter what you do you always do headcounts in the building, outside the building and making sure they get safely to the garden and to keep an eye on the children. Children's safety is paramount. After the incident, I expected the nursery to close and the rest of the children to be sent home but they were not. It did not feel right.
When the manager came to the nursery after getting a phone call off one of the staff, I thought that the manager would be mortified and would want to know the truth. Instead she wanted to hide the truth because she wanted to hide a huge secret about the nursery that nobody knew. At that point I had enough and dnf it because I felt it was messed up. She also told one of the workers that it was okay to slip up and she was doing amazing. That is so messed up and NO WAY should a nursery manager be saying that. That was my last straw.
Although this book was fast paced and full of twists and turns, this book had problems and I would not recommend this to anyone in my opinion. This book definitely needs trigger warnings which were not present in this book at all. This left me feeling uncomfortable even after 20% in. I really wish the author had done more research on this. With this being my first thriller, I have been left feeling very disappointed.
April 26, 2024
Thriller told by the pov of all 4 nursery workers. Thus deals with difficult issues such as addiction,postnatal depression and crime. Every character is well written and complex. The story gets going after an accident leaves a little girl in hospital and secrets are revealed for all the characters . The final twist made it a 5 star read for me.
Throughly enjoyable highky recommended. Thanks netgallery and publisher and author
Throughly enjoyable highky recommended. Thanks netgallery and publisher and author
March 21, 2024
A woman recovers from post-pardem depression. She decides she needs a break from her hovering husband and takes her daughter to a small town an hour away. She finds this amazing nursery that offers her a job with free childcare. Everything is going amazing until the day her child is in their care and she is coming to pick her up and sees her 18 month running towards the street where she gets hit by a car. This is where we learn that all of the daycare workers have secrets that they don’t want exposed.
This is told through the mother, Lenore, and the three other daycare workers pov. I loved learning more about each character through their chapters. When I found out who was responsible for what happened in the prologue I was shocked! It was NOT who I was expecting! This was a good one!
This book comes out on MARCH 21! Make sure to grab your copy!
This is told through the mother, Lenore, and the three other daycare workers pov. I loved learning more about each character through their chapters. When I found out who was responsible for what happened in the prologue I was shocked! It was NOT who I was expecting! This was a good one!
This book comes out on MARCH 21! Make sure to grab your copy!
March 5, 2024
The Playgroup is a fast-paced, suspenseful novel that follows the story of four women juggling family life and work in a small village where everyone knows everyone, and everyone is hiding something. Lenore, Alice, Beth and Georgie work at The Nest., the seemingly perfect nursery in an idyllic town that seems picture-perfect. Until the unthinkable happens, Lenore's daughter is critically injured in a terrible accident during her time at The Nest and nobody knows who is to blame. With the stakes and tensions running high, fingers are quickly pointed at the Lenore, but she maintains her innocence. The question is, how far will she go to prove her version of events, and how far will the other women go to keep their secrets safe?
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I appreciate the authors attempt to tackle difficult issues in this book, such as post-natal depression, drug abuse, and more. I found Lenore's and Beth's perspective the most interesting, as they felt the most fleshed out of all the characters. The Playgroup was undoubtedly a page-turner and I flew through it quickly as it kept me entertained.. However that's where my praise for this book ends. What was an interesting premise quickly became a mishmash of cliches and it felt as though the author was trying to add as many twist and turns as possible. There is sometimes too much of a good thing... Towards the end especially, the plot became so unrealistic I found myself cringing and rolling my eyes at parts.
Overall it is a fine read if you're into the genre, and I can't deny that it was entertaining, it was just let down by the ending.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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I appreciate the authors attempt to tackle difficult issues in this book, such as post-natal depression, drug abuse, and more. I found Lenore's and Beth's perspective the most interesting, as they felt the most fleshed out of all the characters. The Playgroup was undoubtedly a page-turner and I flew through it quickly as it kept me entertained.. However that's where my praise for this book ends. What was an interesting premise quickly became a mishmash of cliches and it felt as though the author was trying to add as many twist and turns as possible. There is sometimes too much of a good thing... Towards the end especially, the plot became so unrealistic I found myself cringing and rolling my eyes at parts.
Overall it is a fine read if you're into the genre, and I can't deny that it was entertaining, it was just let down by the ending.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Leah Mercer for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest Review.
Synopsis: Breath catches in my throat and terror grips me as my daughter’s favourite jumper slides into focus. Time slows. Helpless, I watch my precious little girl run into the road. Screeching tyres slice through the quiet afternoon. Days from now, my friends will say the worst day of my life was all my fault…A bright and welcoming haven, the playgroup sits at the heart of the town, tucked away inside a red-brick building. The Nest should have been the safest place for my rosy-cheeked, pink-obsessed daughter, Florence. Run by mothers like me, I trusted my newfound friends – Alice, Beth and Georgie – to take care of my child. But now my choice has left Florence fighting for her life. My heart pounds thinking about what I will tell my husband, James. He stayed with me through the darkest times, and I thought some space would bring us closer. But as I watch our little girl sleeping in a hospital bed, I know our relationship may never recover from this. How can I tell James what really happened if I don’t know myself? I can’t shake the feeling the other mothers are lying to me; they know I’d never let Florence leave the nursery by herself. We’ve all got dangerous secrets we want to protect, but if they expose mine, will anyone, including my husband, believe me when I say I didn’t harm my daughter?
Review: WHAT DID I JUST READ?? This entire book was one wild ride! I started this book and was like eh for the first 10 % because it was dual POV and hard to remember names! After, getting past that 10 % I was addicted. I couldn't believe my eyes. I stayed up super late last night finishing it because I kept saying one more chapter, but literally the last 40 % was cliff hangers! I don't think my eyes could widen anymore than they did. I can't wait to read more by this author!
Synopsis: Breath catches in my throat and terror grips me as my daughter’s favourite jumper slides into focus. Time slows. Helpless, I watch my precious little girl run into the road. Screeching tyres slice through the quiet afternoon. Days from now, my friends will say the worst day of my life was all my fault…A bright and welcoming haven, the playgroup sits at the heart of the town, tucked away inside a red-brick building. The Nest should have been the safest place for my rosy-cheeked, pink-obsessed daughter, Florence. Run by mothers like me, I trusted my newfound friends – Alice, Beth and Georgie – to take care of my child. But now my choice has left Florence fighting for her life. My heart pounds thinking about what I will tell my husband, James. He stayed with me through the darkest times, and I thought some space would bring us closer. But as I watch our little girl sleeping in a hospital bed, I know our relationship may never recover from this. How can I tell James what really happened if I don’t know myself? I can’t shake the feeling the other mothers are lying to me; they know I’d never let Florence leave the nursery by herself. We’ve all got dangerous secrets we want to protect, but if they expose mine, will anyone, including my husband, believe me when I say I didn’t harm my daughter?
Review: WHAT DID I JUST READ?? This entire book was one wild ride! I started this book and was like eh for the first 10 % because it was dual POV and hard to remember names! After, getting past that 10 % I was addicted. I couldn't believe my eyes. I stayed up super late last night finishing it because I kept saying one more chapter, but literally the last 40 % was cliff hangers! I don't think my eyes could widen anymore than they did. I can't wait to read more by this author!
May 3, 2024
The Playgroup is a fast paced book that weaves a tangled web.
Lenore arrives in town with her young daughter, Florence.
She comes across The Nest, a very popular local playgroup.
The nursery is run by Alice, Georgie and Beth who have secrets.
One day after Lenore drops Florence off, there’s an accident involving Florence that puts her in a serious condition.
What happened…..
Who is at fault….
Who is telling the truth….
Who is lying….
Then all is revealed!
There’s some of this story that’s quite good and some that’s just ok.
I wasn’t overly impressed with the storyline and there was no huge surprises.
Writing is good, the premise is interesting and the twist was a little unbelievable but does come as a shock.
Short chapters make it an easy read, alternating perspectives gives it a different viewpoint and plot themes make it more realistic.
All together it’s a standard read with moments of good.
Lenore arrives in town with her young daughter, Florence.
She comes across The Nest, a very popular local playgroup.
The nursery is run by Alice, Georgie and Beth who have secrets.
One day after Lenore drops Florence off, there’s an accident involving Florence that puts her in a serious condition.
What happened…..
Who is at fault….
Who is telling the truth….
Who is lying….
Then all is revealed!
There’s some of this story that’s quite good and some that’s just ok.
I wasn’t overly impressed with the storyline and there was no huge surprises.
Writing is good, the premise is interesting and the twist was a little unbelievable but does come as a shock.
Short chapters make it an easy read, alternating perspectives gives it a different viewpoint and plot themes make it more realistic.
All together it’s a standard read with moments of good.
February 15, 2024
I so would not want to trade places with Lenore. She already went through a very dark chapter in her life and now seeing this happening before her eyes must be earth shaking.
The shock of the incident is so fierce, she is struggling to remember what has happened exactly and this, of course, is the ideal moment for people to take advantage of.
There are a lot of secrets that have to be kept hidden in this story, but they all threaten to come out. There is only one thing left to do: lie. As long as you can protect yourself, it is ok, right?
Some people don't have the slightest problem in doing so and they will use everything they can to keep other people under their thumb.
But, as per usual, secrets also come floating at the surface and kudos for those who come clean. Others will keep on scheming to justify their actions...
I loved the plot twist. I never saw that coming. Overall, a great story that held my attention in its grip. 5 stars.
Thank you
The shock of the incident is so fierce, she is struggling to remember what has happened exactly and this, of course, is the ideal moment for people to take advantage of.
There are a lot of secrets that have to be kept hidden in this story, but they all threaten to come out. There is only one thing left to do: lie. As long as you can protect yourself, it is ok, right?
Some people don't have the slightest problem in doing so and they will use everything they can to keep other people under their thumb.
But, as per usual, secrets also come floating at the surface and kudos for those who come clean. Others will keep on scheming to justify their actions...
I loved the plot twist. I never saw that coming. Overall, a great story that held my attention in its grip. 5 stars.
Thank you
March 22, 2024
What a thrilling ride The Playgroup takes you on with Lenore. She wanted to learn to be independent with her daughter after a hard first year. The twists and turns this story takes will keep you on your toes. The moment you think you have it figured out, another twist arises. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
May 21, 2024
The Playgroup is Leah Mercer's latest domestic suspense offering, and it's an intense mind game.
Each of the narrators has something at stake and they will do anything to protect themselves...even sacrificing someone's sanity. While it's apparent what is going on, there is still an element of mystery that kept me guessing. I did not see certain things coming and was definitely surprised by that! It was jarring to read about a little kid being hit by a car though. I can't even imagine how horrible that must have felt for Lenore to witness, nor do I want to. I just wanted to give her a hug and to smack everyone else for making her think she was responsible for the accident. I did like seeing the perspectives of the other women though, as it showed the reasons behind why they acted how they did. It was also nice to see certain people receive their just desserts.
Leah shows her writing prowess once again! If you haven't read her domestic thrillers yet, you're definitely missing out.
(Trigger warnings below.)
Movie casting suggestions:
Lenore: Charlotte Ritchie
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TW: addiction, injury of child, miscarriage, postpartum depression
Each of the narrators has something at stake and they will do anything to protect themselves...even sacrificing someone's sanity. While it's apparent what is going on, there is still an element of mystery that kept me guessing. I did not see certain things coming and was definitely surprised by that! It was jarring to read about a little kid being hit by a car though. I can't even imagine how horrible that must have felt for Lenore to witness, nor do I want to. I just wanted to give her a hug and to smack everyone else for making her think she was responsible for the accident. I did like seeing the perspectives of the other women though, as it showed the reasons behind why they acted how they did. It was also nice to see certain people receive their just desserts.
Leah shows her writing prowess once again! If you haven't read her domestic thrillers yet, you're definitely missing out.
(Trigger warnings below.)
Movie casting suggestions:
Lenore: Charlotte Ritchie
Alice: Rosamund Pike
Georgie: Andrea Riseborough
Beth: Bel Powley
James: Harry Melling
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TW: addiction, injury of child, miscarriage, postpartum depression
March 21, 2024
I really wanted to like to book as I have experience working in childcare and thought it could be an interesting premise but I was sadly disappointed. I was appalled and found myself shaking my head at so many rules and safety procedures not followed at this nursery that could have deterred majority of this plot to happen.
There were way too many tropes, storylines and twists that it was overwhelming and unenjoyable. The characters were not likable and the book just focused on everyone’s flaws.
I appreciate the attempt to bring attention to important and controversial topics such as mental illness, miscarriages, addiction, chronic illness, criminal acts and parenting; unfortunately this book tried to tackle a bit of everything and didn’t succeed in the proper representation.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Mental illness, Chronic illness, Suicide attempt, Stalking, Addiction, Toxic relationship, Gaslighting, Injury/Injury detail, Suicidal thoughts, Toxic friendship, Violence, Drug abuse, Miscarriage, Pregnancy, Self harm, Car accident, Fire/Fire injury, and Infertility
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
There were way too many tropes, storylines and twists that it was overwhelming and unenjoyable. The characters were not likable and the book just focused on everyone’s flaws.
I appreciate the attempt to bring attention to important and controversial topics such as mental illness, miscarriages, addiction, chronic illness, criminal acts and parenting; unfortunately this book tried to tackle a bit of everything and didn’t succeed in the proper representation.
Trigger/Content Warnings: Mental illness, Chronic illness, Suicide attempt, Stalking, Addiction, Toxic relationship, Gaslighting, Injury/Injury detail, Suicidal thoughts, Toxic friendship, Violence, Drug abuse, Miscarriage, Pregnancy, Self harm, Car accident, Fire/Fire injury, and Infertility
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2024
Interesting read about 3 women and the secrets in their lives. I would have enjoyed the read even more if the POV was first person, but it was still enjoyable, just a little slow at time. I really didn't see the twists come at the end !
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for access to this arc in exchange for my honest review.
February 19, 2024
Alice is a lawyer who has also begun a nursery, which is called The Nest Nursery. Among the people that work for her are Georgie, Lenore, and Beth.
Lenore had an interesting story, one that I have seen with two of my daughters, and that is her recovery from post-partem depression. Lenore is working at the nursery and her young daughter Florence attends as well. One day the toddler is hit by a car and responsibility for the terrible accident could be on any of the four women, Alice, Georgie, Beth and even Lenore.
It soon becomes clear that everyone has something to hide. Pasts that they do not want to come to the light of day. Because of these secrets, any of the women could be responsible for the accident that gravely injured little Florence.
Something that really caught my attention while reading this book, is that not only did it deal with a woman who has recently experienced post-partum depression, it used the term gaslighting. I found that to be of great significance since everyone had something to hide, and gaslighting was clearly used when it came to laying blame.
As intriguing as this book was with all of the drama that was going on with each of the women, the title The Playgroup confused me. I did a search on my Kindle, and it was what I expected, the reference is "The Nursery" was used over 70 times, and The Nest, over 150 times, so I do wonder why either of those terms were not the name of the book as the phrase "The Playgroup" never once appeared in the novel.
This book came to a satisfying conclusion as some of the women's outcomes were surprising and the ending was handled well. But before the stunning ending there was an amazing twist. Leah Mercer is one of my favorite authors and I love how she kept the characters' secrets from each other as long as possible. I will definitely be reading her next novel.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Lenore had an interesting story, one that I have seen with two of my daughters, and that is her recovery from post-partem depression. Lenore is working at the nursery and her young daughter Florence attends as well. One day the toddler is hit by a car and responsibility for the terrible accident could be on any of the four women, Alice, Georgie, Beth and even Lenore.
It soon becomes clear that everyone has something to hide. Pasts that they do not want to come to the light of day. Because of these secrets, any of the women could be responsible for the accident that gravely injured little Florence.
Something that really caught my attention while reading this book, is that not only did it deal with a woman who has recently experienced post-partum depression, it used the term gaslighting. I found that to be of great significance since everyone had something to hide, and gaslighting was clearly used when it came to laying blame.
As intriguing as this book was with all of the drama that was going on with each of the women, the title The Playgroup confused me. I did a search on my Kindle, and it was what I expected, the reference is "The Nursery" was used over 70 times, and The Nest, over 150 times, so I do wonder why either of those terms were not the name of the book as the phrase "The Playgroup" never once appeared in the novel.
This book came to a satisfying conclusion as some of the women's outcomes were surprising and the ending was handled well. But before the stunning ending there was an amazing twist. Leah Mercer is one of my favorite authors and I love how she kept the characters' secrets from each other as long as possible. I will definitely be reading her next novel.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 21, 2024
Lenore had a really rough time, due to a depression, after giving birth to her daughter Florence. She wants some time alone with her, away from her husband, to reconnect and build some new self confidence.
Alice, manager of ‘The nest’ offers her a job in the nursery and Lenore is absolutely thrilled to start making new friends, all caring mothers like her, whilst taking care of each others precious children. But a horrific and tragic accident happens with Florence and all of Lenore’s newfound friends have their own dangerous secrets to protect..
I absolutely loved this gripping psychological and suspenseful tale. From the very first chapter I was hooked and almost couldn’t put it down. It’s so well written and the character building is awesome. Every character is packed with their own dark secrets, but you feel compassion for all of them at the same time and truly understand some of the choices they make.
Lenore and Beth were my favourite characters, because they are so relatable and want to protect their loved ones by any cost. I definitely want to pick up another one from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Alice, manager of ‘The nest’ offers her a job in the nursery and Lenore is absolutely thrilled to start making new friends, all caring mothers like her, whilst taking care of each others precious children. But a horrific and tragic accident happens with Florence and all of Lenore’s newfound friends have their own dangerous secrets to protect..
I absolutely loved this gripping psychological and suspenseful tale. From the very first chapter I was hooked and almost couldn’t put it down. It’s so well written and the character building is awesome. Every character is packed with their own dark secrets, but you feel compassion for all of them at the same time and truly understand some of the choices they make.
Lenore and Beth were my favourite characters, because they are so relatable and want to protect their loved ones by any cost. I definitely want to pick up another one from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
March 28, 2024
Leah Mercer, who also publishes as Talli Roland is an author I have been following since 2010 when she published her first novel. In my opinion over the years her writing has gone from strength to strength. It took me less than two days to read this latest addictive psychological thriller. I just had to finish before going to sleep last night!
Four women that are connected by their workplace and the secrets they keep are the basis of the suspenseful storyline. The protagonists, Lenore, Alice, Georgie and Beth alternately narrate this twisted web of secrets, that unravels at quite a pace. Depression, addiction, chronic illness and controlling partners all feature. Quite concerning when you consider that all these women are working with young children!
Certainly kept me guessing, as every time I thought I had worked it all out there was another revelation. If you enjoy psychological thrillers this one is worth reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
Four women that are connected by their workplace and the secrets they keep are the basis of the suspenseful storyline. The protagonists, Lenore, Alice, Georgie and Beth alternately narrate this twisted web of secrets, that unravels at quite a pace. Depression, addiction, chronic illness and controlling partners all feature. Quite concerning when you consider that all these women are working with young children!
Certainly kept me guessing, as every time I thought I had worked it all out there was another revelation. If you enjoy psychological thrillers this one is worth reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
May 25, 2024
I work in a nursery so I was worried that this would be a bit close to home for me, when the “incident “ occurred I was worried I would t be able to listen to any more if it was based around malpractice 🤣
It turned out not to really focus much on the nursery afterwards, it was more just the setting that brought the characters together. Very twisty and I didn’t see the ending…
It turned out not to really focus much on the nursery afterwards, it was more just the setting that brought the characters together. Very twisty and I didn’t see the ending…
February 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read the advance copy of The Playgroup by Leah Mercer. It had me invested from the very beginning of the novel.
My least favorite character was Lenore. I'm sure she'll be the favorite of many but I found her placing herself in a remote setting away from here husband not very plausible. Having been married myself almost 50 years I could not possibly think of moving away from the love of my life.
All of the other women involved in the co-op had their own personal, and sometimes, dark secrets. I think that's what made for such an interesting read. It was not as it appeared on the surface.
I think this would make a great choice for book club pick - lots of good discussion would ensue.
My least favorite character was Lenore. I'm sure she'll be the favorite of many but I found her placing herself in a remote setting away from here husband not very plausible. Having been married myself almost 50 years I could not possibly think of moving away from the love of my life.
All of the other women involved in the co-op had their own personal, and sometimes, dark secrets. I think that's what made for such an interesting read. It was not as it appeared on the surface.
I think this would make a great choice for book club pick - lots of good discussion would ensue.
March 12, 2024
The Playgroup is a fast paced psychological thriller that has you gripped into the book from the beginning. The multiple POVs and the way they go into the next chapter was done really well making you want to keep turning the pages until the end.
A couple things I didn’t like were the characters and how selfish and unlikeable they are. I was really put off by a lot of their actions and insufferable personalities.
I loved the writing style Leah Mercer uses and I can’t wait to read more from her.
3.75⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Leah Mercer for allowing me to read the ARC of The Playgroup
A couple things I didn’t like were the characters and how selfish and unlikeable they are. I was really put off by a lot of their actions and insufferable personalities.
I loved the writing style Leah Mercer uses and I can’t wait to read more from her.
3.75⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Leah Mercer for allowing me to read the ARC of The Playgroup
April 27, 2024
Boring. So boring I skim read most of it to get to the end. The so called twist was a bit rubbish too.
January 16, 2026
Not a fan. First off, it started way too slow for me. I couldn’t get myself to read more than 10-20 pages a day and that never happens. Second, I couldn’t believe how unlikable almost every single female character was.
Alice sucks from start to finish, which luckily ended up being the point. But honestly she disturbed me. I’m all for a woman wanting a big career but she basically sucks at her lawyer job, only cares about the nursery because of fame, and is uninvolved in her family. She barely even does her work for the law firm yet chooses to spend so much time there instead of coming home because she’s salty that her kids like their dad more?? Then, when Simon says he’s leaving her, all she’s thinking about is her career and how she can use this position herself better. I’m glad she didn’t have a redemption because it wouldn’t have worked but even at the end I hated how unbelievably selfish she was.
I’m glad Georgia and Beth had their redemption moments at the end but I still didn’t like their characters. Georgia has a daughter who is terminally ill, and to deal with the stress, Georgia starts taking pills and becomes addicted. The moment I decided I hated her was when her husband, Kasper, tells her that her daughter really isn’t doing well and she, who is nervous she left her pill bottle somewhere, says “I got to go” and leaves. Then, after a FAR-FETCHED coincidence (which I’ll want about in a bit), she gets more pills which her daughter finds and overdoses with. The fact that she left the pills just casually in a medicine cabinet is beyond me.
Next, we have Beth. I appreciate that she told the truth later on but, I still don’t care for her character. She’s been through a lot, I’m glad she was able to build a new life for herself. But, to decide to leave and break her husband and step-kids hearts instead of just telling them about her past is BEYOND selfish. It’d be one thing if she had the type of past where she couldn’t be involved with law enforcement but in this case, she could’ve easily gone to the police. A convicted felon, who she testified against, is trying to find her. The cops would’ve helped. Rather raise your kid alone on the run and break your family apart than tell them the truth????
Lenore was fine. She had problems but she was working through it and she was a good mother. I do think it’s nuts that she just moves her and her daughter away from her husband to prove she can be a good mother, but I also have no idea what it’d be like to be in her position dealing with postpartum, so I’ll let that slide.
Now, onto the plot. First off, Beth calling Jess and revealing all of her information (where she lives, what she does for work) prior to Jess actually speaking on the call bothered me. No one really does this?? I get rambling, but if you’ve been running from your past for YEARS and then call a person connected to that life, you do NOT just start telling them everything immediately. ESPECIALLY when the person hasn’t actually said words on the call. Of COURSE, the person on the other end of the phone was not Jess, the intended recipient, but the ex that Beth had run away from. (Also, what did actually happen to Jess??). This just bothered me so much because she does so much to hide her past and become invisible and then to just give it all away like that made no sense.
Another horribly done coincidence was when Georgia went to buy drugs. You’re telling me that after Beth’s call, her ex (Curtis), happened to find a place & start selling drugs in the area IMMEDIATELY and that that place is exactly where Georgia goes to buy drugs for the first time. AND, Georgia wearing her work outfit?????
I just felt like all these women were made out to sound like idiots. Who divulges their life they’ve kept secret on a phone call with no recipient? Who buys drugs in a “sketchy neighborhood” in their work outfits? Who responds to hearing that their daughter isn’t doing well with “I got to go”? Who chooses to leave their family “to protect them” when realistically Curtis would’ve easily used them as leverage to get her back in town??
I’m glad that James ended up being a POS because I was a little sick of all the women being the bad guys. Also glad that the truth came out about what happened at the Nest because I was worried the 2nd car accident was going to torpedo that narrative. But still overall it was pretty bad & I just had to finish because I’ll always finish a book.
Alice sucks from start to finish, which luckily ended up being the point. But honestly she disturbed me. I’m all for a woman wanting a big career but she basically sucks at her lawyer job, only cares about the nursery because of fame, and is uninvolved in her family. She barely even does her work for the law firm yet chooses to spend so much time there instead of coming home because she’s salty that her kids like their dad more?? Then, when Simon says he’s leaving her, all she’s thinking about is her career and how she can use this position herself better. I’m glad she didn’t have a redemption because it wouldn’t have worked but even at the end I hated how unbelievably selfish she was.
I’m glad Georgia and Beth had their redemption moments at the end but I still didn’t like their characters. Georgia has a daughter who is terminally ill, and to deal with the stress, Georgia starts taking pills and becomes addicted. The moment I decided I hated her was when her husband, Kasper, tells her that her daughter really isn’t doing well and she, who is nervous she left her pill bottle somewhere, says “I got to go” and leaves. Then, after a FAR-FETCHED coincidence (which I’ll want about in a bit), she gets more pills which her daughter finds and overdoses with. The fact that she left the pills just casually in a medicine cabinet is beyond me.
Next, we have Beth. I appreciate that she told the truth later on but, I still don’t care for her character. She’s been through a lot, I’m glad she was able to build a new life for herself. But, to decide to leave and break her husband and step-kids hearts instead of just telling them about her past is BEYOND selfish. It’d be one thing if she had the type of past where she couldn’t be involved with law enforcement but in this case, she could’ve easily gone to the police. A convicted felon, who she testified against, is trying to find her. The cops would’ve helped. Rather raise your kid alone on the run and break your family apart than tell them the truth????
Lenore was fine. She had problems but she was working through it and she was a good mother. I do think it’s nuts that she just moves her and her daughter away from her husband to prove she can be a good mother, but I also have no idea what it’d be like to be in her position dealing with postpartum, so I’ll let that slide.
Now, onto the plot. First off, Beth calling Jess and revealing all of her information (where she lives, what she does for work) prior to Jess actually speaking on the call bothered me. No one really does this?? I get rambling, but if you’ve been running from your past for YEARS and then call a person connected to that life, you do NOT just start telling them everything immediately. ESPECIALLY when the person hasn’t actually said words on the call. Of COURSE, the person on the other end of the phone was not Jess, the intended recipient, but the ex that Beth had run away from. (Also, what did actually happen to Jess??). This just bothered me so much because she does so much to hide her past and become invisible and then to just give it all away like that made no sense.
Another horribly done coincidence was when Georgia went to buy drugs. You’re telling me that after Beth’s call, her ex (Curtis), happened to find a place & start selling drugs in the area IMMEDIATELY and that that place is exactly where Georgia goes to buy drugs for the first time. AND, Georgia wearing her work outfit?????
I just felt like all these women were made out to sound like idiots. Who divulges their life they’ve kept secret on a phone call with no recipient? Who buys drugs in a “sketchy neighborhood” in their work outfits? Who responds to hearing that their daughter isn’t doing well with “I got to go”? Who chooses to leave their family “to protect them” when realistically Curtis would’ve easily used them as leverage to get her back in town??
I’m glad that James ended up being a POS because I was a little sick of all the women being the bad guys. Also glad that the truth came out about what happened at the Nest because I was worried the 2nd car accident was going to torpedo that narrative. But still overall it was pretty bad & I just had to finish because I’ll always finish a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
After overcoming a case of postpartum depression that put her baby at risk, Lenore Morgan needs to prove to herself that she can be a good mother to her now eighteen-month-old daughter Florence. However, doing so proves impossible as long as her husband James is around. Even though she knows he does it out of love, he keeps a close watch over her every hour of the day to make sure that Florence is safe, and Lenore doesn’t need his help. The only way she’ll be able to trust herself as a mother again is to be away from him for a while so she can be alone to parent their daughter. That means leaving him if only temporarily.
Moving her and her daughter to the small village of Mapplestow not far outside of London, Lenore takes a job at a charming, idyllic nursery called The Nest. It’s a fairy tale-like place where Lenore finds not only employment for herself and daycare for Florence, but new friends as well. The head of the nursery, Alice, takes to her immediately. So does the ultra-responsible manager, Georgie, and the other employee, Beth. Lenore loves working at The Nest, and her confidence in herself as a mother is growing daily. But when Florence toddles into the road and is hit by an oncoming car, her new life comes to a screeching halt.
Not able to remember the details that led up to the accident, she believes her new friends when they insist the accident was her fault. She wasn’t paying attention, they tell her. Florence got away from her in the parking lot. But Alice, Georgie, and Beth aren’t the incredible, angelic daycare workers they seem to be. Each with secrets of their own, the three women have plenty of reasons to lie about what happened, especially when the police begin investigating. While little Florence fights for her life, Lenore fights to learn the truth. Her marriage depends on it. Being a good mother to Florence depends on it.
With more twists than a pretzel and an emotional punch that will leave you gasping, “The Playgroup” by Leah Mercer is not a book you’ll be able to read in one sitting. Between baby Florence fighting for her life in the hospital and the disgusting lengths the women go to gaslight Lenore to save themselves, you have to pull yourself out of the story a few times to calm yourself and breathe. It’s that anxiety-inducing. It’s that tense. Simply put, it’s that dang good.
Hidden pasts. Lies. Secrets. These are three of the top ingredients that make up a killer psychological thriller. And guess what? “The Playgroup” is jam-packed with all three. While the characters spill their secrets to the reader early in the story– each from their own point-of-view– it’s the disgusting actions they take to keep those secrets hidden that will have you slack-jawed. The twists that follow will keep you tail over tea kettle, trying to figure out who’s to blame for the accident. You might be able to figure it out for yourself. Or not. Either way, the final twist will blow your hair back.
With great writing, well-developed characters, and plenty of suspense to keep you glued to the page, “The Playgroup” is the next book to add to your TBR list. Do yourself a favor and move it straight to the top.
Thank you to author Leah Mercer and Bookouture for the complimentary eARC in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
After overcoming a case of postpartum depression that put her baby at risk, Lenore Morgan needs to prove to herself that she can be a good mother to her now eighteen-month-old daughter Florence. However, doing so proves impossible as long as her husband James is around. Even though she knows he does it out of love, he keeps a close watch over her every hour of the day to make sure that Florence is safe, and Lenore doesn’t need his help. The only way she’ll be able to trust herself as a mother again is to be away from him for a while so she can be alone to parent their daughter. That means leaving him if only temporarily.
Moving her and her daughter to the small village of Mapplestow not far outside of London, Lenore takes a job at a charming, idyllic nursery called The Nest. It’s a fairy tale-like place where Lenore finds not only employment for herself and daycare for Florence, but new friends as well. The head of the nursery, Alice, takes to her immediately. So does the ultra-responsible manager, Georgie, and the other employee, Beth. Lenore loves working at The Nest, and her confidence in herself as a mother is growing daily. But when Florence toddles into the road and is hit by an oncoming car, her new life comes to a screeching halt.
Not able to remember the details that led up to the accident, she believes her new friends when they insist the accident was her fault. She wasn’t paying attention, they tell her. Florence got away from her in the parking lot. But Alice, Georgie, and Beth aren’t the incredible, angelic daycare workers they seem to be. Each with secrets of their own, the three women have plenty of reasons to lie about what happened, especially when the police begin investigating. While little Florence fights for her life, Lenore fights to learn the truth. Her marriage depends on it. Being a good mother to Florence depends on it.
With more twists than a pretzel and an emotional punch that will leave you gasping, “The Playgroup” by Leah Mercer is not a book you’ll be able to read in one sitting. Between baby Florence fighting for her life in the hospital and the disgusting lengths the women go to gaslight Lenore to save themselves, you have to pull yourself out of the story a few times to calm yourself and breathe. It’s that anxiety-inducing. It’s that tense. Simply put, it’s that dang good.
Hidden pasts. Lies. Secrets. These are three of the top ingredients that make up a killer psychological thriller. And guess what? “The Playgroup” is jam-packed with all three. While the characters spill their secrets to the reader early in the story– each from their own point-of-view– it’s the disgusting actions they take to keep those secrets hidden that will have you slack-jawed. The twists that follow will keep you tail over tea kettle, trying to figure out who’s to blame for the accident. You might be able to figure it out for yourself. Or not. Either way, the final twist will blow your hair back.
With great writing, well-developed characters, and plenty of suspense to keep you glued to the page, “The Playgroup” is the next book to add to your TBR list. Do yourself a favor and move it straight to the top.
Thank you to author Leah Mercer and Bookouture for the complimentary eARC in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
March 24, 2024
Lenore is finally starting to feel more herself after months of crippling postpartum depression following the birth of her daughter, Florence. But her husband, James, still doesn’t seem to trust her with their child, so she decides to take some time away by herself with Florence so they can both learn to trust her as a mother again so she moves to a house in Mappelstow, just outside London. In the heart of this town sits The Nest, a playgroup run by a co-operative of the town’s parents which seems like the ideal place for not only her daughter to socialise, but for Lenore to begin working again. Lenore soon settles in and begins to see the other women working there as her friends. Until that terrible day.
Lenore stands helpless, paralysed by horror as her little girl runs into the road. Tyres screech and Lenore’s scream pierces the air as she races to her daughter’s side. Little Florence is alive, but only just, and is rushed into hospital. Lenore and her husband, James, begin a vigil by the unconscious little girl’s bedside hoping for a miracle. But their nightmare gets even darker when the other women tell Lenore the accident was her fault. Could they be right? Could her PPD have clouded her mind and she really put her child in danger? Lenore is sure it wasn’t her fault. But why would her friends lie? What might they be hiding?
Tense, twisty and surprising, Leah Mercer had me in the palm of her hand as I devoured this book in just 24 hours. Narrated by Lenore, Alice, Georgie, and Beth, this is a story where everyone has something to hide. It explores topics such as postpartum depression, drug addiction, chronic illness, and coercive control, spinning a twisted web of secrets and lies that is cleverly woven together. Fast-paced and addictive, I could never be sure of the truth and when the truth was revealed it left me speechless. I did not see that coming!
A suspenseful and surprising thriller, I’d highly recommend The Playgroup to anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
Lenore stands helpless, paralysed by horror as her little girl runs into the road. Tyres screech and Lenore’s scream pierces the air as she races to her daughter’s side. Little Florence is alive, but only just, and is rushed into hospital. Lenore and her husband, James, begin a vigil by the unconscious little girl’s bedside hoping for a miracle. But their nightmare gets even darker when the other women tell Lenore the accident was her fault. Could they be right? Could her PPD have clouded her mind and she really put her child in danger? Lenore is sure it wasn’t her fault. But why would her friends lie? What might they be hiding?
Tense, twisty and surprising, Leah Mercer had me in the palm of her hand as I devoured this book in just 24 hours. Narrated by Lenore, Alice, Georgie, and Beth, this is a story where everyone has something to hide. It explores topics such as postpartum depression, drug addiction, chronic illness, and coercive control, spinning a twisted web of secrets and lies that is cleverly woven together. Fast-paced and addictive, I could never be sure of the truth and when the truth was revealed it left me speechless. I did not see that coming!
A suspenseful and surprising thriller, I’d highly recommend The Playgroup to anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
March 23, 2024
First, I want to thank Leah Mercer, Bookouture Books and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
OMG!!! Leah Mercer’s The Playgroup is every parent’s worst nightmare and thensome! My jaw was literally on the floor and my heart was beating out of my chest! Oh there were so many emotions going on throughout this book-and yes I needed some tissues! This is a must read book that deserves way more than 5 stars!
Leah had me glued to my Kindle in this fast paced addictive read! For me I devoured this in one sitting. It was SO good!!! Infact, I feel that this is one of her best books that I have read. That being said you need to go pick this book up and put it to the top of your tbr list.
Leah Mercer brought awareness to some very important topics such as MS, drug overdose and Oxycotton.
There was one adorable scene in the book that made me smile and giggle a little bit. It was the moment little Florence found Beth’s pregnancy. Oh, it was so cute!
I will admit there was one major event/scene that was difficult to read due to the circumstances. However, it was an extremely powerful heart wrenching scene that had me gasping!
The Playgroup was filled with drama, deep dark secrets, and tons of shocking bombshells that you will not see coming and leave you speechless!
OMG!!! Leah Mercer’s The Playgroup is every parent’s worst nightmare and thensome! My jaw was literally on the floor and my heart was beating out of my chest! Oh there were so many emotions going on throughout this book-and yes I needed some tissues! This is a must read book that deserves way more than 5 stars!
Leah had me glued to my Kindle in this fast paced addictive read! For me I devoured this in one sitting. It was SO good!!! Infact, I feel that this is one of her best books that I have read. That being said you need to go pick this book up and put it to the top of your tbr list.
Leah Mercer brought awareness to some very important topics such as MS, drug overdose and Oxycotton.
There was one adorable scene in the book that made me smile and giggle a little bit. It was the moment little Florence found Beth’s pregnancy. Oh, it was so cute!
I will admit there was one major event/scene that was difficult to read due to the circumstances. However, it was an extremely powerful heart wrenching scene that had me gasping!
The Playgroup was filled with drama, deep dark secrets, and tons of shocking bombshells that you will not see coming and leave you speechless!
March 3, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Leah Mercer for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest Review.
This book was a fast paced read that sucked me in from the start. It was a children's nursery that brought 4 women together. Each had their own secrets and past that was slowly revealed throughout the book. Each women's storyline had potential, but I found the characters to be underdeveloped. I want to know more. The ending also seemed a bit rushed. All in all, this book had a lot of potential, but fell flat for my taste.
This book was a fast paced read that sucked me in from the start. It was a children's nursery that brought 4 women together. Each had their own secrets and past that was slowly revealed throughout the book. Each women's storyline had potential, but I found the characters to be underdeveloped. I want to know more. The ending also seemed a bit rushed. All in all, this book had a lot of potential, but fell flat for my taste.
March 5, 2024
Wow!
This is the first book I’ve read by Leah Mercer. However, it definitely won’t be the last. This book was full of twists and turns!
When Lenore and her baby daughter Florence move to a small town to start a healing journey, her daughter is involved in a bad accident. Loyalties are called into questions when the stories told don’t match up with Lenore’s memories of the events.
Can her memory be trusted? Or are her “friends” out to get her?
This is the first book I’ve read by Leah Mercer. However, it definitely won’t be the last. This book was full of twists and turns!
When Lenore and her baby daughter Florence move to a small town to start a healing journey, her daughter is involved in a bad accident. Loyalties are called into questions when the stories told don’t match up with Lenore’s memories of the events.
Can her memory be trusted? Or are her “friends” out to get her?
March 23, 2024
Talk about a book full of twists!! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book about a group of women with so many secrets!! This was a good book, it definitely kept me interested. I would give it 5 stars, but the relationship between the main character and her husband didn’t really make sense and I couldn’t get past that, but still a great read!!!
August 4, 2024
This book just wasn’t great. I had high hopes based on the blurb and I think the author probably thought they had a great storyline but it was just quite boring and nothing wow! The storylines for each of the women’s lives and history seemed quite random and the writing felt quite amateur. I was glad to to finish it and start something else.
February 21, 2024
Well Where do i start?! I am a huge fan of this author since the very beginning of their writing journey, but hands down this is up there with the best, if not it’s the best book this author has written.
The twists and turns in this story are incredible and I feel like i have whiplash from being pulled all ways. Just when you think you have sussed out what’s going on… another curve ball happens!
I was gripped by this story. I wouldn’t say this was a light read, it is quite hard hitting and deals with some pretty traumatic stuff within it. It was excellently written with really well developed characters which all had their own agenda’s and secrets that they needed to protect. I was completely memsorised by this story and I couldn’t put my kindle down and read this really really quickly. This is an extremely well written, fast paced, thriller where you just need to buckle yourself down and enjoy the ride that it takes you on.
The twists and turns in this story are incredible and I feel like i have whiplash from being pulled all ways. Just when you think you have sussed out what’s going on… another curve ball happens!
I was gripped by this story. I wouldn’t say this was a light read, it is quite hard hitting and deals with some pretty traumatic stuff within it. It was excellently written with really well developed characters which all had their own agenda’s and secrets that they needed to protect. I was completely memsorised by this story and I couldn’t put my kindle down and read this really really quickly. This is an extremely well written, fast paced, thriller where you just need to buckle yourself down and enjoy the ride that it takes you on.
March 1, 2024
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced read copy.
The Nest was supposed to be a safe place, a great opportunity, and a fresh start for Lenore after a rough battle with postpartum depression. But just when Lenore begins to settle into her new life, a tragic accident occurs and her world falls apart. But who is to blame?
I really liked the writing style and the different character perspectives. This story is pretty fast paced in the beginning, but starts to drag halfway through. I appreciate that the author tried to incorporate some difficult subject matter into the characters back stories (depression, addiction, crime), but the “everybody has a secret” trope seemed a little cliche. I didn’t find any of the characters likable or even relatable. It also drove me crazy how EVERYONE constantly gaslights Lenore. Overall, it started out as an interesting premise, but I felt that the author tried too hard to cram in as many twists and turns as possible.
The Nest was supposed to be a safe place, a great opportunity, and a fresh start for Lenore after a rough battle with postpartum depression. But just when Lenore begins to settle into her new life, a tragic accident occurs and her world falls apart. But who is to blame?
I really liked the writing style and the different character perspectives. This story is pretty fast paced in the beginning, but starts to drag halfway through. I appreciate that the author tried to incorporate some difficult subject matter into the characters back stories (depression, addiction, crime), but the “everybody has a secret” trope seemed a little cliche. I didn’t find any of the characters likable or even relatable. It also drove me crazy how EVERYONE constantly gaslights Lenore. Overall, it started out as an interesting premise, but I felt that the author tried too hard to cram in as many twists and turns as possible.
February 16, 2024
This is the first book I've read by Leah Mercer, though I can see she's written quite a few. The story here revolves around a local nursery, The Nest, and four women who are all associated with it.
The four main characters are Lenore, newly moved to the area, who after suffering post-partum depression is determined to prove to husband James that she's capable of caring for their daughter Florence; Alice, founder and owner of The Nest; nursery manager Georgie, dealing with illness at home; and nursery assistant Beth, who's trying to leave her past behind her.
Everything is going well enough for Lenore, until a shocking accident occurs, sparking some frantic lies-upon-lies web-weaving from certain parties...
This was an enjoyable read - I did guess what had probably happened with Florence, and there were no huge surprises, but it was well told and constructed.
The Nest is described the whole way through as a nursery - which it is - and the word "playgroup" never appears within the text at all, so I'm not sure why the title was chosen.
The writing was good, though it was noticeable that heads, hearts and mouths dropped a lot ( "her mouth dropped open" is repeated so often that it seemed like just about every character had their mouth hanging permanently agape).
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review !
The four main characters are Lenore, newly moved to the area, who after suffering post-partum depression is determined to prove to husband James that she's capable of caring for their daughter Florence; Alice, founder and owner of The Nest; nursery manager Georgie, dealing with illness at home; and nursery assistant Beth, who's trying to leave her past behind her.
Everything is going well enough for Lenore, until a shocking accident occurs, sparking some frantic lies-upon-lies web-weaving from certain parties...
This was an enjoyable read - I did guess what had probably happened with Florence, and there were no huge surprises, but it was well told and constructed.
The Nest is described the whole way through as a nursery - which it is - and the word "playgroup" never appears within the text at all, so I'm not sure why the title was chosen.
The writing was good, though it was noticeable that heads, hearts and mouths dropped a lot ( "her mouth dropped open" is repeated so often that it seemed like just about every character had their mouth hanging permanently agape).
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review !
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