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Eagle Court: Kind neighbours are not always nice
Readers of contemporary psychological thrillers will love this latest book from Sheena Billett.
A development of three bungalows has been completed and for some of the new inhabitants of Eagle Court the move is the start of an exciting new life, while for others, it’s a low point.
But Eagle Court is a dangerous place. One of their neighbours is a cunning predator, hiding in plain sight. Someone who will stop at nothing to get her own back on those who upset her. How long will it be before they find out who is behind the alarming events they are experiencing? And how many lives will be destroyed?
A development of three bungalows has been completed and for some of the new inhabitants of Eagle Court the move is the start of an exciting new life, while for others, it’s a low point.
But Eagle Court is a dangerous place. One of their neighbours is a cunning predator, hiding in plain sight. Someone who will stop at nothing to get her own back on those who upset her. How long will it be before they find out who is behind the alarming events they are experiencing? And how many lives will be destroyed?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2024
1 person is currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Sheena Billett
5 books573 followersMy roots are very firmly Cornish, and although I was born in Liskeard, I haven't lived there since I was six and we moved 'upcountry' to Devon. Since then I've been moving even more 'upcountry', to Bristol where I did my teacher training, to Forest Gate in Newham where I had my first teaching, and from there to Oxford, where I worked for BT for three years, and then Waltham Abbey. Finally to Norwich where my sons grew up and I taught music. Norwich is a wonderful place to live, but after twenty or so years, it was time to move again, this time to be with my partner, now my wife. I actually moved to 'The North' and now live in Worksop, Nottinghamshire.
Most of my working life has been spent teaching music, both in schools and giving private piano lessons. I'm still in touch with one of my pupils who I took from the very beginning to Grade 8. He is now a professor in Australia!
As well as music, my passion has always been reading and books, so now, as a writer I'm living the dream.
Most of my working life has been spent teaching music, both in schools and giving private piano lessons. I'm still in touch with one of my pupils who I took from the very beginning to Grade 8. He is now a professor in Australia!
As well as music, my passion has always been reading and books, so now, as a writer I'm living the dream.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 15, 2024
5 Stars Gripping, Absorbing, Intriguing
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Crime
Eagle Court by Sheena Billett 🏡
When one purchases a new home it may be reasonable to expect issues that weren’t covered with the Estate Agents details or the obligatory search, such as the break down of a boiler that has been there for donkey’s years, perhaps some dodgy wiring or come the Summer, it is often a surprise to find out what the previous occupiers planted in the back garden when greenery and blooms spring up seemingly from nowhere. When you step over the threshold of your front door, there also lies a number of other potential irritants such as neighbourhood cats defecating on your lush green front lawn turning patches of it brown and dry, large vehicles on other driveways blocking out the light to your property and the noise of vehicles on the main road, which when you visited with the agent were a pleasant hum, but now drive you insane. And then there are the neighbours, flaunting their ability to pro-create and nurture their nearest and dearest, afforded a lifestyle that you could have had, had it not slipped through your fingers before it even had the chance to be established…..
Iris considers these daily reminders of a life misspent so abhorrent, that she is literally prepared to go to any lengths to rid herself of the torment and regret that plagues her life. However, she is about to bite off more than she can chew when she goes a step too far, putting her faith in another person, perhaps the biggest betrayal of her life that has many threads…..
I have a number of favourite established authors whose books I automatically know I will love on release. The same can certainly be said of Sheena Billett’s literary delights. This is the fourth penned offering from Sheena, a very different theme from the others which made it extremely compelling, and I continue to be impressed at the diversity of genres that this author is able to turn her mind and hand to. 📖
Iris is a thoroughly deplorable character, but at the same time you kind of feel sorry for her. Having been treated so disrespectfully by her mother and been forced to sacrifice over half her life to both her parents, she is understandably bitter. Once she acquires the freedom she craved for so long, she witness other people living the life that she could have had, and as Iris can no longer direct her vitriol towards the person responsibility, at the slightest provocation, she convinces herself that it is only right to make others pay for the things of which. she was deprived. 👩🦳🚗
After offering unwelcome advise to Iris with regards to her pot plants, on top of her derisory comment about the place in which Iris had dreamt of living for all those years, I though Celia was perhaps going to be the difficult neighbour. However, that kind act, only meant with the best of intentions but taken wrongly, perhaps due to Celia’s lack of warmth, (possibly due to her being another victim of her upbringing), results in unwittingly making herself a target of her new neighbour. After Seb mocks his grandmother’s new neighbour for her driving skills and vandalises Iris’s colourful arboricultural efforts, it gives her yet another reason to exact a lengthy and agonising revenge upon the unsuspecting resident of number two. At first, I wasn’t sure whether I felt sorry for Celia or not, as she seemed a bit of a snob, clearly viewing moving into Eagle Court as a downgrade. But as Iris stepped up her plans becoming more and more heinous, sympathy definitely switched. The worst for me were definitely the texts initially. A deplorable act towards an elderly lady who is trying to adjust to a very different way of life with little support.🗞📱🖥
It was clear from the start that Bob had been harpooned by a younger woman with her strange ways and wish to relive her youth. This was also how Iris seemed to view the new occupants of number 3 and appeared to be on a mission to rid Eagle Court of Trish, a woman who she didn’t see as suitable for her chosen living location, and had also set her sights firmly on Bob. The slip up with the solicitor’s letter to Bob had me cheering, as I knew that that would lead to Iris’s downfall, as well as her young accomplice, forgetting to or deliberately not carrying out an instruction, making identification of the evil pensioner in a moment where the environmental elements consorted against her, all too easy. I liked Bob, who was clearly also vulnerable after a bereavement, a factor which both maybe Trish and Iris were able to use to the their advantage. The description of his ‘outing’ with George and his friends in ‘Dusty Roads’, was both heart warming and hilarious, with Mabel and her many bags and the wonderful unexpected act of chivalry from her fellow down-and-outs. 🚎🪧🧔
The banter from the crew at the homeless lunches, and exchanges between Iris and the patrons, provided much of the humour in this story particularly as she has nefarious reasons for being there. The reveals of the patron’s backgrounds were a brilliant addition, especially George, making his concern for Iris and his ability to read her brilliantly logical. The inclusion of this character cleverly created a possible extra threat to Iris’s plans putting her on the backfoot.🫕🍲
Zed is a very wiley opportunist, using his skills to extort money from those who are not able to execute their plans when it comes to technology, and in this case taking advantage of a generational gap. However when Iris gives him too much freedom he goes too far and after his client makes a throw away comment sparking Zed’s curiosity about his past, he uncovers information that he really wishes he hadn’t. Zed was prepared to be as ruthless as Iris needed him to be as long as the money was right. When he uncovers an unexpected connection though, I was saddened by the lack of emotion from both parties. The realisation that two lives have been blighted by the action of one person is very regrettable indeed. 💻 🍔
Although I wasn’t keen on the character of Trish, feeling that she was using Bob to some extent, I admired her for her suspicion of Iris and her outspokenness. The humiliation of ending up vulnerable and at the mercy of the very person you suspect of carrying out plans to discredit you, must have been awful for her, and although her unorthodox views and approach to life were what attracted Bob to her in the beginning, it ends up being her undoing, giving Iris the ammunition she requires.☯️☮
Eagle Court is full of exceptionally brilliant derived plot twists, and characters that are brought alive on the page by Sheena’s relatable authentic dialogue. Iris’s evil deeds are so cunning and spiteful, they truly make you hate her with every fibre of your being.
I loved that the last chapter updated you on Iris, but was a little disappointed that it ended where it did. The ending to me, suggests the possibility a sequel. If this isn’t the author’s plan, maybe ending it where she discovers Sonia might have been the way to go.🔐
I will definitely be purchasing a copy of Eagle Court to add to my collection of Sheena Billet’s books.🦅
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Crime
Eagle Court by Sheena Billett 🏡
When one purchases a new home it may be reasonable to expect issues that weren’t covered with the Estate Agents details or the obligatory search, such as the break down of a boiler that has been there for donkey’s years, perhaps some dodgy wiring or come the Summer, it is often a surprise to find out what the previous occupiers planted in the back garden when greenery and blooms spring up seemingly from nowhere. When you step over the threshold of your front door, there also lies a number of other potential irritants such as neighbourhood cats defecating on your lush green front lawn turning patches of it brown and dry, large vehicles on other driveways blocking out the light to your property and the noise of vehicles on the main road, which when you visited with the agent were a pleasant hum, but now drive you insane. And then there are the neighbours, flaunting their ability to pro-create and nurture their nearest and dearest, afforded a lifestyle that you could have had, had it not slipped through your fingers before it even had the chance to be established…..
Iris considers these daily reminders of a life misspent so abhorrent, that she is literally prepared to go to any lengths to rid herself of the torment and regret that plagues her life. However, she is about to bite off more than she can chew when she goes a step too far, putting her faith in another person, perhaps the biggest betrayal of her life that has many threads…..
I have a number of favourite established authors whose books I automatically know I will love on release. The same can certainly be said of Sheena Billett’s literary delights. This is the fourth penned offering from Sheena, a very different theme from the others which made it extremely compelling, and I continue to be impressed at the diversity of genres that this author is able to turn her mind and hand to. 📖
Iris is a thoroughly deplorable character, but at the same time you kind of feel sorry for her. Having been treated so disrespectfully by her mother and been forced to sacrifice over half her life to both her parents, she is understandably bitter. Once she acquires the freedom she craved for so long, she witness other people living the life that she could have had, and as Iris can no longer direct her vitriol towards the person responsibility, at the slightest provocation, she convinces herself that it is only right to make others pay for the things of which. she was deprived. 👩🦳🚗
After offering unwelcome advise to Iris with regards to her pot plants, on top of her derisory comment about the place in which Iris had dreamt of living for all those years, I though Celia was perhaps going to be the difficult neighbour. However, that kind act, only meant with the best of intentions but taken wrongly, perhaps due to Celia’s lack of warmth, (possibly due to her being another victim of her upbringing), results in unwittingly making herself a target of her new neighbour. After Seb mocks his grandmother’s new neighbour for her driving skills and vandalises Iris’s colourful arboricultural efforts, it gives her yet another reason to exact a lengthy and agonising revenge upon the unsuspecting resident of number two. At first, I wasn’t sure whether I felt sorry for Celia or not, as she seemed a bit of a snob, clearly viewing moving into Eagle Court as a downgrade. But as Iris stepped up her plans becoming more and more heinous, sympathy definitely switched. The worst for me were definitely the texts initially. A deplorable act towards an elderly lady who is trying to adjust to a very different way of life with little support.🗞📱🖥
It was clear from the start that Bob had been harpooned by a younger woman with her strange ways and wish to relive her youth. This was also how Iris seemed to view the new occupants of number 3 and appeared to be on a mission to rid Eagle Court of Trish, a woman who she didn’t see as suitable for her chosen living location, and had also set her sights firmly on Bob. The slip up with the solicitor’s letter to Bob had me cheering, as I knew that that would lead to Iris’s downfall, as well as her young accomplice, forgetting to or deliberately not carrying out an instruction, making identification of the evil pensioner in a moment where the environmental elements consorted against her, all too easy. I liked Bob, who was clearly also vulnerable after a bereavement, a factor which both maybe Trish and Iris were able to use to the their advantage. The description of his ‘outing’ with George and his friends in ‘Dusty Roads’, was both heart warming and hilarious, with Mabel and her many bags and the wonderful unexpected act of chivalry from her fellow down-and-outs. 🚎🪧🧔
The banter from the crew at the homeless lunches, and exchanges between Iris and the patrons, provided much of the humour in this story particularly as she has nefarious reasons for being there. The reveals of the patron’s backgrounds were a brilliant addition, especially George, making his concern for Iris and his ability to read her brilliantly logical. The inclusion of this character cleverly created a possible extra threat to Iris’s plans putting her on the backfoot.🫕🍲
Zed is a very wiley opportunist, using his skills to extort money from those who are not able to execute their plans when it comes to technology, and in this case taking advantage of a generational gap. However when Iris gives him too much freedom he goes too far and after his client makes a throw away comment sparking Zed’s curiosity about his past, he uncovers information that he really wishes he hadn’t. Zed was prepared to be as ruthless as Iris needed him to be as long as the money was right. When he uncovers an unexpected connection though, I was saddened by the lack of emotion from both parties. The realisation that two lives have been blighted by the action of one person is very regrettable indeed. 💻 🍔
Although I wasn’t keen on the character of Trish, feeling that she was using Bob to some extent, I admired her for her suspicion of Iris and her outspokenness. The humiliation of ending up vulnerable and at the mercy of the very person you suspect of carrying out plans to discredit you, must have been awful for her, and although her unorthodox views and approach to life were what attracted Bob to her in the beginning, it ends up being her undoing, giving Iris the ammunition she requires.☯️☮
Eagle Court is full of exceptionally brilliant derived plot twists, and characters that are brought alive on the page by Sheena’s relatable authentic dialogue. Iris’s evil deeds are so cunning and spiteful, they truly make you hate her with every fibre of your being.
I loved that the last chapter updated you on Iris, but was a little disappointed that it ended where it did. The ending to me, suggests the possibility a sequel. If this isn’t the author’s plan, maybe ending it where she discovers Sonia might have been the way to go.🔐
I will definitely be purchasing a copy of Eagle Court to add to my collection of Sheena Billet’s books.🦅
February 27, 2025
Here’s an improved version of your review while keeping your voice and enthusiasm intact:
A slow-burn psychological drama that lingers in your mind!
This novel begins with three neighbors moving into a newly built court of bungalows, each carrying baggage from their past and uncertainty about their future.
One neighbor, unhappy with her life, feels the world owes her something. What starts as small acts of trickery and revenge soon escalates, sending shockwaves through the quiet community of Eagle Court. At first, her actions seem petty—almost harmless—but before long, everything spirals out of control.
I loved the slow, nuanced development of the characters and their relationships. Like all of Sheena’s books, this one left me wanting more! I was especially intrigued by the homeless characters and found myself eager to learn more about Zed and Fred.
The characters were richly developed and multidimensional, making for a compelling and thought-provoking read. Highly recommended for fans of psychological drama!
A slow-burn psychological drama that lingers in your mind!
This novel begins with three neighbors moving into a newly built court of bungalows, each carrying baggage from their past and uncertainty about their future.
One neighbor, unhappy with her life, feels the world owes her something. What starts as small acts of trickery and revenge soon escalates, sending shockwaves through the quiet community of Eagle Court. At first, her actions seem petty—almost harmless—but before long, everything spirals out of control.
I loved the slow, nuanced development of the characters and their relationships. Like all of Sheena’s books, this one left me wanting more! I was especially intrigued by the homeless characters and found myself eager to learn more about Zed and Fred.
The characters were richly developed and multidimensional, making for a compelling and thought-provoking read. Highly recommended for fans of psychological drama!
January 12, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eagle Court by Sheena Billett is a psychological thriller which follows the life of Iris Walker and her new neighbours at the Eagle Court. The story critiques societal norms around class, appearances, and judgment, such as Iris’s insecurities and perceptions of her neighbours. The writer paints a vivid picture of Eagle Court and every character's life, making it easy for readers to visualize the setting. Each character has a distinct voice and perspective, maintaining their individuality throughout. Iris, especially as the protagonist, reminds the readers of Annie Wilkes from Stephen King’s novel, Misery.
The story captures feelings of loneliness, regret, and hope, particularly in Iris’s self-doubt and Celia’s grief over her late husband. The strained dynamic between Iris and her mother adds emotional depth. Similarly, the complexities of the relationship between Celia and her daughter add weight to the narrative. Also, Bob’s nostalgia for his past life versus his efforts to embrace change creates a compelling internal conflict.
However, the book is not without flaws. The narrative often delves into excessive details about mundane activities (e.g., unpacking, shopping, and minor interactions), slowing the pace and risking reader disengagement. The conflicts, such as noisy neighbours and clashes over lifestyle differences, are visited repeatedly with little variation, creating a sense of stagnation in the plot. Iris’s internal thoughts can feel repetitive as they lack variation, weakening their emotional resonance. The supporting characters could have been more fully fleshed out, making it more engaging for the reader.
Additionally, the story shifts between thriller, drama, and social commentary, which may confuse readers about its intended tone or primary focus. The plot could have been more captivating by increasing the intensity of the crimes leading to the big mess entangling Iris in her scheming. The story does not establish a compelling central goal or stakes early on. The readers would want to know what Iris wants and how far can she go to get it.
Overall, the writer created interesting characters. The build-up of the narration keeps the reader hooked but the end doesn’t justify it. There is a lot of scope to play around with the sub-plots if the repetitiveness of the descriptions and monologues is reduced.
Eagle Court by Sheena Billett is a psychological thriller which follows the life of Iris Walker and her new neighbours at the Eagle Court. The story critiques societal norms around class, appearances, and judgment, such as Iris’s insecurities and perceptions of her neighbours. The writer paints a vivid picture of Eagle Court and every character's life, making it easy for readers to visualize the setting. Each character has a distinct voice and perspective, maintaining their individuality throughout. Iris, especially as the protagonist, reminds the readers of Annie Wilkes from Stephen King’s novel, Misery.
The story captures feelings of loneliness, regret, and hope, particularly in Iris’s self-doubt and Celia’s grief over her late husband. The strained dynamic between Iris and her mother adds emotional depth. Similarly, the complexities of the relationship between Celia and her daughter add weight to the narrative. Also, Bob’s nostalgia for his past life versus his efforts to embrace change creates a compelling internal conflict.
However, the book is not without flaws. The narrative often delves into excessive details about mundane activities (e.g., unpacking, shopping, and minor interactions), slowing the pace and risking reader disengagement. The conflicts, such as noisy neighbours and clashes over lifestyle differences, are visited repeatedly with little variation, creating a sense of stagnation in the plot. Iris’s internal thoughts can feel repetitive as they lack variation, weakening their emotional resonance. The supporting characters could have been more fully fleshed out, making it more engaging for the reader.
Additionally, the story shifts between thriller, drama, and social commentary, which may confuse readers about its intended tone or primary focus. The plot could have been more captivating by increasing the intensity of the crimes leading to the big mess entangling Iris in her scheming. The story does not establish a compelling central goal or stakes early on. The readers would want to know what Iris wants and how far can she go to get it.
Overall, the writer created interesting characters. The build-up of the narration keeps the reader hooked but the end doesn’t justify it. There is a lot of scope to play around with the sub-plots if the repetitiveness of the descriptions and monologues is reduced.
December 10, 2024
Sheena Billett’s Eagle Court is a captivating domestic thriller that explores the dynamics of suburban life with sharp wit, unflinching honesty, and a growing sense of unease. Set in a small cul-de-sac in rural Nottinghamshire, the novel unveils the lives of its residents through a cast of vividly drawn characters, each wrestling with their personal struggles, aspirations—and secrets.
Iris Walker, the protagonist, represents the quintessential dream of a fresh start. After selling her late mother’s house, she moves into her new bungalow at Eagle Court, envisioning a peaceful life among kind neighbors. However, her utopian vision is quickly shattered. The quiet charm of her surroundings is disrupted not only by eccentric neighbors like the haughty Celia and free-spirited Trish and Bob, but also by darker undercurrents that hint at danger lurking close to home. As Iris uncovers unsettling truths about her new community, her determination to maintain her independence and safety propels the story into compelling and suspenseful territory.
Billett excels in balancing light-hearted domestic moments with the psychological tension of a thriller. Gardening mishaps and neighborhood disputes take on a sinister edge as whispers of past scandals and shadowy figures emerge. The pacing of the novel is deliberate, with the first half immersing readers in the quirks of suburban life, before slowly ramping up suspense as the predator’s presence becomes undeniable. While this measured buildup allows for deep character development, some readers might find the initial chapters overly leisurely before the thriller elements fully take hold.
Eagle Court stands out for its vivid characterizations and authentic depiction of suburban dynamics. However, the transition between domestic drama and thriller could benefit from smoother integration, as the tonal shift may feel abrupt to some readers. Additionally, while the characters are richly drawn, the resolution of the suspense feels slightly rushed, leaving certain threads unresolved.
Even still, Eagle Court succeeds as a gripping and immersive story. Billett’s crisp prose and sharp observational skills bring to life a neighborhood teeming with secrets, making readers question how well they know their own communities.
For fans of character-driven thrillers, Eagle Court offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden dangers that can lurk in even the most picturesque settings. With its blend of humor, heart, and tension, this novel is sure to leave readers both entertained and unsettled.
Iris Walker, the protagonist, represents the quintessential dream of a fresh start. After selling her late mother’s house, she moves into her new bungalow at Eagle Court, envisioning a peaceful life among kind neighbors. However, her utopian vision is quickly shattered. The quiet charm of her surroundings is disrupted not only by eccentric neighbors like the haughty Celia and free-spirited Trish and Bob, but also by darker undercurrents that hint at danger lurking close to home. As Iris uncovers unsettling truths about her new community, her determination to maintain her independence and safety propels the story into compelling and suspenseful territory.
Billett excels in balancing light-hearted domestic moments with the psychological tension of a thriller. Gardening mishaps and neighborhood disputes take on a sinister edge as whispers of past scandals and shadowy figures emerge. The pacing of the novel is deliberate, with the first half immersing readers in the quirks of suburban life, before slowly ramping up suspense as the predator’s presence becomes undeniable. While this measured buildup allows for deep character development, some readers might find the initial chapters overly leisurely before the thriller elements fully take hold.
Eagle Court stands out for its vivid characterizations and authentic depiction of suburban dynamics. However, the transition between domestic drama and thriller could benefit from smoother integration, as the tonal shift may feel abrupt to some readers. Additionally, while the characters are richly drawn, the resolution of the suspense feels slightly rushed, leaving certain threads unresolved.
Even still, Eagle Court succeeds as a gripping and immersive story. Billett’s crisp prose and sharp observational skills bring to life a neighborhood teeming with secrets, making readers question how well they know their own communities.
For fans of character-driven thrillers, Eagle Court offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden dangers that can lurk in even the most picturesque settings. With its blend of humor, heart, and tension, this novel is sure to leave readers both entertained and unsettled.
January 4, 2025
3.5*
Revenge is never enough!
An enjoyable cul-de-sac psychological drama involving a well rounded cast of characters. Iris, Celia and Ben along with the cast of supporting characters paint a very accurate picture of British society, at the core having greed and abuse as the main driving forces behind the plot! We have the working class white trash abusing their children and in the process creating the next generation of psychopath and/or dependants on the government handouts; the real working class becoming lower middle class and the upper middle class with no financial worries but emotionally unable to deal with life. And then we have the homeless, the ones living beyond their means, the youth dealing drugs, the homeless, the hippies - a delight hahahaha
Maybe my only criticism is that the story doesn't really have a warm up, Iris jumping into her schemes with almost no triggers, her plans do seem a bit far fetched and the end is very, very tidy! But luckily nothing is too much, allowing the read to enjoy the ride!
*Book from BookSirens with many thanks for the opportunity to read it!
Revenge is never enough!
An enjoyable cul-de-sac psychological drama involving a well rounded cast of characters. Iris, Celia and Ben along with the cast of supporting characters paint a very accurate picture of British society, at the core having greed and abuse as the main driving forces behind the plot! We have the working class white trash abusing their children and in the process creating the next generation of psychopath and/or dependants on the government handouts; the real working class becoming lower middle class and the upper middle class with no financial worries but emotionally unable to deal with life. And then we have the homeless, the ones living beyond their means, the youth dealing drugs, the homeless, the hippies - a delight hahahaha
Maybe my only criticism is that the story doesn't really have a warm up, Iris jumping into her schemes with almost no triggers, her plans do seem a bit far fetched and the end is very, very tidy! But luckily nothing is too much, allowing the read to enjoy the ride!
*Book from BookSirens with many thanks for the opportunity to read it!
October 22, 2024
This is a slow-burn psychological drama.
It begins when 3 neighbours move into a newly built court of bungalows. All 3 bring with them baggage from their past and unrest about their future.
One of the neighbours isn’t happy with her life, and feels the world owes her a debt! She starts to get even by small acts of trickery and revenge. Initially these just seem spiteful, yet relatively harmless… but matters soon start to spiral out of control for the quiet community of Eagle Court!
I really enjoyed the slow and subtle development of characters and the relationships between them! Like all of Sheena’s books, this left me wanting to know more… I want to know the details of the homeless characters, I want to know more about Zed, I want to know about Fred.
All the characters were so multidimensional and well thought out!
It begins when 3 neighbours move into a newly built court of bungalows. All 3 bring with them baggage from their past and unrest about their future.
One of the neighbours isn’t happy with her life, and feels the world owes her a debt! She starts to get even by small acts of trickery and revenge. Initially these just seem spiteful, yet relatively harmless… but matters soon start to spiral out of control for the quiet community of Eagle Court!
I really enjoyed the slow and subtle development of characters and the relationships between them! Like all of Sheena’s books, this left me wanting to know more… I want to know the details of the homeless characters, I want to know more about Zed, I want to know about Fred.
All the characters were so multidimensional and well thought out!
Read
September 26, 2024(I received a complimentary review copy of this novel from the author via BookSirens)
3.5/5
I struggled to connect with this story to begin with, as the character whose perspective most of the story comes from was very difficult for me to sympathise with, and I found her decisions quite frustrating. However, I did enjoy the other characters' perspectives, and in the last third I was able to get more invested in the story as I went through the twists and turns which Sheena Billett writes so well in her novels. This is the third novel I have read by this author and her writing flows very well and is easy to follow. I am glad I stuck with this novel even though I wasn't initially connecting with it as definitely got more satisfying as it went along.
3.5/5
I struggled to connect with this story to begin with, as the character whose perspective most of the story comes from was very difficult for me to sympathise with, and I found her decisions quite frustrating. However, I did enjoy the other characters' perspectives, and in the last third I was able to get more invested in the story as I went through the twists and turns which Sheena Billett writes so well in her novels. This is the third novel I have read by this author and her writing flows very well and is easy to follow. I am glad I stuck with this novel even though I wasn't initially connecting with it as definitely got more satisfying as it went along.
September 12, 2024
The plot for revenge "seemed" to start small and harmless, but it gathered momentum and escalated quickly to unbelievable proportions. I had some suspicions about Iris's family tree early on. Iris wasn't a nice person, but I didn't think she was totally to blame. Her mother wouldn't win any awards. I empathized with Iris for her upbringing and past that lacked relationships. She wasn't able to rise above her past and enjoy her life and freedoms in the present. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
September 20, 2024
After reading the first few sentences, I suspected that I would enjoy this book and I was not disappointed. It's a cracking story, with well-crafted characters and is also beautifully written. It was so good that I read it in a day. I realised that I had read a previous book by this author (The Woman who Wrote in Green Ink) and I thoroughly enjoyed that one too.
I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading other books by Sheena Billett
I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading other books by Sheena Billett
September 25, 2024
Iris moves into Eagle Court after the death of her mother. Celia moves in next door. Bob and his wife move in across the road. Which one is the predator, taking revenge on those who cause upset?
A psychological thriller with a good couple of twists at the end. It made me realise how much we take on trust. Really enjoyed it and will reach more from this author when I get the chance.
Thank you to BookSirens for a free copy in exchange for a review.
A psychological thriller with a good couple of twists at the end. It made me realise how much we take on trust. Really enjoyed it and will reach more from this author when I get the chance.
Thank you to BookSirens for a free copy in exchange for a review.
October 26, 2024
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Eagle's Court has three new cottages. They are occupied by Iris, Celia , and, Bob and his wife.
The beginning of the story was extremely slow.
Small acts of revenge soon escalate by one bitter resident, and one is left wondering just how well does one ever knows someone, let alone someone just next door!
3 and a half stars
Eagle's Court has three new cottages. They are occupied by Iris, Celia , and, Bob and his wife.
The beginning of the story was extremely slow.
Small acts of revenge soon escalate by one bitter resident, and one is left wondering just how well does one ever knows someone, let alone someone just next door!
3 and a half stars
September 20, 2024
Another brilliantly paced thriller from author Sheena Billett, wish I knew how she does it. It had me sitting on the edge of my seat and wondering about people I know as I followed the twists and turns of the lives of the residents in new housing development Eagle Court and in particular the mind of Iris!! So well plotted and executed, amazing writing Sheena. Look forward to the next one already.
September 21, 2024
A new house, a new neighbour for those that moved to Eagle Court.
Iris was always so kind and helpful however underneath was a whole different mind set.
A psychological thriller set within an everyday life.
Iris was always so kind and helpful however underneath was a whole different mind set.
A psychological thriller set within an everyday life.
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