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The Return of Frankie Whittle
Once you enter the gates, will they ever let you leave?
Frankie Whittle has it all: a career in the City, a gorgeous husband and a baby on the way. It’s the perfect life, but it’s built on sand. In one terrifying night, everything she has worked so hard for unravels.
She needs a fresh start. When she discovers the very place she was born has been converted into a beautiful gated community, it feels like serendipity. After all she’s been through, has she found her dream home?
They say you should never go back, that the past is a foreign country, filled with devastating secrets. How far will those around her go to keep their secrets safe?
Frankie Whittle has it all: a career in the City, a gorgeous husband and a baby on the way. It’s the perfect life, but it’s built on sand. In one terrifying night, everything she has worked so hard for unravels.
She needs a fresh start. When she discovers the very place she was born has been converted into a beautiful gated community, it feels like serendipity. After all she’s been through, has she found her dream home?
They say you should never go back, that the past is a foreign country, filled with devastating secrets. How far will those around her go to keep their secrets safe?
Paperback
Published February 8, 2025
8 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Caroline England
21 books193 followersCWA Dagger shortlisted Caroline England is known as the ‘Duchess of dark domestic noir’. Her psychological suspense thrillers are BENEATH THE SKIN, the top ten ebook bestseller MY HUSBAND'S LIES, BETRAY HER, TRUTH GAMES, THE SINNER, THE STRANGER BESIDE ME and THE RETURN OF FRANKIE WHITTLE. BEHIND HER SMILE hits the shelves on 27 Novembery 2025.
Caroline also pens gothic-tinged psychological thrillers as CE Rose. Stand alone THE HOUSE OF HIDDEN SECRETS was followed by THE HOUSE ON THE WATER'S EDGE, THE SHADOWS OF RUTHERFORD HOUSE and THE ATTIC AT WILTON PLACE.
Both CE and Caroline write multi-layered, dark and edgy ‘domestic suspense’ stories that delve into complicated relationships, secrets and the moral grey area.
Drawing on her days as a divorce and professional indemnity lawyer, she loves to create ordinary, relatable characters who get caught up in extraordinary situations, pressures, dilemmas or crime. She admits to a slight obsession with the human psyche, what goes on behind closed doors and beneath people’s façades. She also enjoys performing a literary sleight of hand in her novels and hopefully surprising her readers!
Website: https://carolineenglandauthor.co.uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CazEngland
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CazEngland1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cazengland1/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cazengland1
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-...
AmazonUK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/~/e/B009UQC1YS
Caroline also pens gothic-tinged psychological thrillers as CE Rose. Stand alone THE HOUSE OF HIDDEN SECRETS was followed by THE HOUSE ON THE WATER'S EDGE, THE SHADOWS OF RUTHERFORD HOUSE and THE ATTIC AT WILTON PLACE.
Both CE and Caroline write multi-layered, dark and edgy ‘domestic suspense’ stories that delve into complicated relationships, secrets and the moral grey area.
Drawing on her days as a divorce and professional indemnity lawyer, she loves to create ordinary, relatable characters who get caught up in extraordinary situations, pressures, dilemmas or crime. She admits to a slight obsession with the human psyche, what goes on behind closed doors and beneath people’s façades. She also enjoys performing a literary sleight of hand in her novels and hopefully surprising her readers!
Website: https://carolineenglandauthor.co.uk
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CazEngland
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CazEngland1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cazengland1/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cazengland1
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-...
AmazonUK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/~/e/B009UQC1YS
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 24, 2025
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the readalong hosted by Lovebookstours.
The Return of Frankie Whittle is the fourth book by Caroline England that I've had the pleasure of reading, and this one was I think the darkest and more disturbing one yet. Please check trigger warnings if you need to before reading.
We follow Frankie, who's married to Toby and has it all; a good job, a nice home, and has just discovered she's pregnant. But one evening, Frankie has a huge scare whilst alone in their apartment and loses the baby. She goes to stay with her mother in Manchester, and her relationship with Toby begins to unravel. Suddenly, their life, hopes, and dreams don't seem to align anymore. Toby During her grief, Frankie finds a house in a gated community that is safe and secure, just what she needs, and it's perfect for raising a family. But Toby isn't keen on moving and wants to stay in London and makes a fuss of commuting back and forth. But after Frankie moves into the new house, she starts to wonder if she's safe there after all as things don't add up and she may be in even bigger danger than she was before.
The secrets unravelled in this book were a complete shock. The book itself gave me Rosemary's Baby vibes, and a certain part had me really creeped out and sickened.
The Return of Frankie Whittle is the fourth book by Caroline England that I've had the pleasure of reading, and this one was I think the darkest and more disturbing one yet. Please check trigger warnings if you need to before reading.
We follow Frankie, who's married to Toby and has it all; a good job, a nice home, and has just discovered she's pregnant. But one evening, Frankie has a huge scare whilst alone in their apartment and loses the baby. She goes to stay with her mother in Manchester, and her relationship with Toby begins to unravel. Suddenly, their life, hopes, and dreams don't seem to align anymore. Toby During her grief, Frankie finds a house in a gated community that is safe and secure, just what she needs, and it's perfect for raising a family. But Toby isn't keen on moving and wants to stay in London and makes a fuss of commuting back and forth. But after Frankie moves into the new house, she starts to wonder if she's safe there after all as things don't add up and she may be in even bigger danger than she was before.
The secrets unravelled in this book were a complete shock. The book itself gave me Rosemary's Baby vibes, and a certain part had me really creeped out and sickened.
March 23, 2025
I initially went into this thinking I was going to be reading a fast-paced thriller, but it didn't really become fast-paced until the last third of the book.
Frankie is desperate for a family, but things are getting in the way of her happy ever after.
After an upsetting event, Frankie doesn't want to stay in her flat anymore and, in a strange turn of events, finds the perfect place to stay to start the family that she wants.
Unfortunately, her husband isn't as enthusiastic as she is, and spends more time pursuing a promotion at work.
While on her own, Frankie befriends those in her new community and unearths some secrets that have her questioning everything she knows.
This story wasn't the typical thriller that I'm used to. I think if you're going into it with that expectation, you may be slightly disappointed. I did enjoy the story, but there was one thing that stood out to me at the end that I think was glossed over and ended quite abruptly.
The story was written primarily from Frankie's pov, but there are chapters from her mum, too. The chapters were short but kept me turning the pages.
Frankie is desperate for a family, but things are getting in the way of her happy ever after.
After an upsetting event, Frankie doesn't want to stay in her flat anymore and, in a strange turn of events, finds the perfect place to stay to start the family that she wants.
Unfortunately, her husband isn't as enthusiastic as she is, and spends more time pursuing a promotion at work.
While on her own, Frankie befriends those in her new community and unearths some secrets that have her questioning everything she knows.
This story wasn't the typical thriller that I'm used to. I think if you're going into it with that expectation, you may be slightly disappointed. I did enjoy the story, but there was one thing that stood out to me at the end that I think was glossed over and ended quite abruptly.
The story was written primarily from Frankie's pov, but there are chapters from her mum, too. The chapters were short but kept me turning the pages.
February 2, 2025
Oh where to start with this dark and disturbing thriller. Living in London and married to Toby with his awful parents and double-barrelled surname, Frankie has it all, except for a baby which she is desperate for; however Toby’s ambitions don’t seem to exactly align with Frankie’s. Following a terrifying event, Frankie visits her mother in her home town of Didsbury, Manchester where she ends up falling in love with Pavilion Gardens, housing a number of properties within a gated community. Although much modernised the development can’t hide its dark past of a Victorian workhouse however Frankie craves safety and security and makes the decision that this will be their new home.
I think Frankie’s life lesson here would be ‘be careful what you wish for’. Certain parts of this story really creeped me out and it definitely gave me Rosemary’s Baby vibes. Life seems perfect at Pavilion Gardens with its friendly neighbours, but there is a sinister undercurrent and some things don’t add up.
I had mixed feelings about Frankie. Whilst I was hoping that she would end up with everything she wanted – even if that included her rather wet husband, she had a stubborn nature and I did think she was quite self absorbed and very ‘me, me me’. Her difficult relationship with her mother Nina was also a large part of the story and ultimately the lies and secrets of the past find their way into Frankie’s life.
At 339 pages this was a fairly quick read and I raced through this suspenseful and dramatic thriller. Cleverly plotted, there is a slow drip feed of revelations and events, some of which are quite shocking.
The Return of Frankie Whittle is a gripping and atmospheric read, it has some superbly drawn characters – with Pavilion Gardens and its dark history being a character in its own right. This is my first Caroline England book but certainly not my last.
I think Frankie’s life lesson here would be ‘be careful what you wish for’. Certain parts of this story really creeped me out and it definitely gave me Rosemary’s Baby vibes. Life seems perfect at Pavilion Gardens with its friendly neighbours, but there is a sinister undercurrent and some things don’t add up.
I had mixed feelings about Frankie. Whilst I was hoping that she would end up with everything she wanted – even if that included her rather wet husband, she had a stubborn nature and I did think she was quite self absorbed and very ‘me, me me’. Her difficult relationship with her mother Nina was also a large part of the story and ultimately the lies and secrets of the past find their way into Frankie’s life.
At 339 pages this was a fairly quick read and I raced through this suspenseful and dramatic thriller. Cleverly plotted, there is a slow drip feed of revelations and events, some of which are quite shocking.
The Return of Frankie Whittle is a gripping and atmospheric read, it has some superbly drawn characters – with Pavilion Gardens and its dark history being a character in its own right. This is my first Caroline England book but certainly not my last.
March 24, 2025
I was absolutely riveted by this book! I got behind on other stuff because I got wrapped up in reading!
This was one of those books that didn't give everything away at the beginning, not by far, but when you saw everything revealed at the end you could see all the pieces tie together neatly and you were just shook!! Also, I always wonder if writers like this can ever be pantsers because geez there are so many moving parts!! But I feel like I've heard of some who are, which is just even more impressive.
I felt like I liked and disliked the wrong people in this one once I got to the store new, but at the same time, it was such I'm still reeling more than a week later! The twists and turns, as well as the mood and the insidious feeling that something just wasn't right, were just so well done!!
Of course, like so many thrillers it deal with some serious topics that might be a non-starter for some. I thought it was worth mentioning some big ticket ones including pregnancy, pregnancy loss, implied child harm, murder, suicide, and probably some more.
But it is a can't stop, page turner of a thriller that I highly recommend!
This was one of those books that didn't give everything away at the beginning, not by far, but when you saw everything revealed at the end you could see all the pieces tie together neatly and you were just shook!! Also, I always wonder if writers like this can ever be pantsers because geez there are so many moving parts!! But I feel like I've heard of some who are, which is just even more impressive.
I felt like I liked and disliked the wrong people in this one once I got to the store new, but at the same time, it was such I'm still reeling more than a week later! The twists and turns, as well as the mood and the insidious feeling that something just wasn't right, were just so well done!!
Of course, like so many thrillers it deal with some serious topics that might be a non-starter for some. I thought it was worth mentioning some big ticket ones including pregnancy, pregnancy loss, implied child harm, murder, suicide, and probably some more.
But it is a can't stop, page turner of a thriller that I highly recommend!
February 5, 2025
This was a gripping and twisted thriller that keeps you on edge throughout, with strange occurrences, secrets, and eerie feelings that something isn't right.
Frankie suffers a great deal of physical and emotional trauma, trying to conceive with her husband Toby, suffering a miscarriage and living in fear after a burglary. When she finds a gated community it seems the answer to her prayers as a place they can build a family in safety. Her new neighbours are friendly, her neighbour's son is caring and supportive while Toby works away, and it seems an idyllic home to raise her family.
But dark secrets lie hidden in this peaceful community, and as Frankie digs deeper she realises she's been pulled into something sinister.
This pacing of this book is great swapping between Frankie and her mother's POV and building up the sense of unease. The final chapters up the pace and reveal tragic secrets, and deadly intentions.
(Also includes some dark themes and triggers)
Frankie suffers a great deal of physical and emotional trauma, trying to conceive with her husband Toby, suffering a miscarriage and living in fear after a burglary. When she finds a gated community it seems the answer to her prayers as a place they can build a family in safety. Her new neighbours are friendly, her neighbour's son is caring and supportive while Toby works away, and it seems an idyllic home to raise her family.
But dark secrets lie hidden in this peaceful community, and as Frankie digs deeper she realises she's been pulled into something sinister.
This pacing of this book is great swapping between Frankie and her mother's POV and building up the sense of unease. The final chapters up the pace and reveal tragic secrets, and deadly intentions.
(Also includes some dark themes and triggers)
February 6, 2025
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' by Caroline England
'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Caroline discusses/includes miscarriage, cults and rape. Deborah has covered these topics as sensitively as possible to tell the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'The Shadows Of Rutherford House' published under CE Rose which I would also highly recommend!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! What an absolutely, addictive page turning book with everything you could ask for!!
What an absolutely addictive page turner!! This is the first book I have read by Caroline Rose under this name with CE Rose penname being more gothic novels. It may be the first book I have read by l but I can promise you it won't be the last!!! As soon as I've written this up I'm off to add all her books under Caroline England to my wishlist. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, shocks, secrets, lies, tension and suspense.I loved the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters with the main protagonists being Frankie and her mum Nina. It really is one of those books that have such a variety of genres going on it is a must read for everyone. I was completely sucked into the storyline and the way Caroline weaves the lives together was absolutely perfect! It is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions too from love and happiness to anger and despair. It also had so many absolutely explosive twists that I would never have guessed in a million years so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Caroline!!! It is getting harder and harder to shock me but you completely blew my mind with this ending. The atmosphere was perfect with a gothic chill to it that really set the story and made it come alive. It is filled with mystery, love, loss, friendship, romance, betrayal, lies , twists and turns and soooo much more!! It is an extremely gripping and addictive storyline and I was sucked in immediately from the very first page to the last. The storyline was believable and I cannot wait to read more books by this very talented author!!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. The character development was strong throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each and every single one of them. The story begins with Frankie and I found it fascinating to "watch" her develop throughout the storyline as she discovers more and more about her past. It was absolutely fascinating discovering all the secrets of this family and community with a past like no other and I would love to go back to visit in another of this amazing authors books!! Hint, hint Caroline 😉. As with all books, movies and in real life we can't get on with everyone and there were a few characters that I could not stand but I will not reveal anymore. You will just have to pick up a copy of discover the secrets and shadows of Frankie Whittle yourself. The only thing that I would have liked to find out more in the end is about Toby and what happened to him. Each of the characters had their own individual and unique personalities, flaws, strengths, quirks and weaknesses as well as many of them hiding their own secrets. You have no idea who you can trust or believe!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Caroline England on another absolutely addictive page turner!! I would love to see this turned into a movie and I will be the first in the line to by tickets. This is the exact reason you are on my favourite author list Caroline and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Overall an explosive, addictive action packed page turner that is filled with secrets, lies, love, loss and shocks with explosive twists that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
@CarolineEngland @cazengland1 @bullingtonpress @lovebookstours @lbtcrew @KellyALacey
#TheReturnOfFrankieWhittle #CarolineEngland #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram
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Review for 'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' by Caroline England
'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Caroline discusses/includes miscarriage, cults and rape. Deborah has covered these topics as sensitively as possible to tell the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'The Shadows Of Rutherford House' published under CE Rose which I would also highly recommend!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! What an absolutely, addictive page turning book with everything you could ask for!!
What an absolutely addictive page turner!! This is the first book I have read by Caroline Rose under this name with CE Rose penname being more gothic novels. It may be the first book I have read by l but I can promise you it won't be the last!!! As soon as I've written this up I'm off to add all her books under Caroline England to my wishlist. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, shocks, secrets, lies, tension and suspense.I loved the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters with the main protagonists being Frankie and her mum Nina. It really is one of those books that have such a variety of genres going on it is a must read for everyone. I was completely sucked into the storyline and the way Caroline weaves the lives together was absolutely perfect! It is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions too from love and happiness to anger and despair. It also had so many absolutely explosive twists that I would never have guessed in a million years so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Caroline!!! It is getting harder and harder to shock me but you completely blew my mind with this ending. The atmosphere was perfect with a gothic chill to it that really set the story and made it come alive. It is filled with mystery, love, loss, friendship, romance, betrayal, lies , twists and turns and soooo much more!! It is an extremely gripping and addictive storyline and I was sucked in immediately from the very first page to the last. The storyline was believable and I cannot wait to read more books by this very talented author!!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. The character development was strong throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each and every single one of them. The story begins with Frankie and I found it fascinating to "watch" her develop throughout the storyline as she discovers more and more about her past. It was absolutely fascinating discovering all the secrets of this family and community with a past like no other and I would love to go back to visit in another of this amazing authors books!! Hint, hint Caroline 😉. As with all books, movies and in real life we can't get on with everyone and there were a few characters that I could not stand but I will not reveal anymore. You will just have to pick up a copy of discover the secrets and shadows of Frankie Whittle yourself. The only thing that I would have liked to find out more in the end is about Toby and what happened to him. Each of the characters had their own individual and unique personalities, flaws, strengths, quirks and weaknesses as well as many of them hiding their own secrets. You have no idea who you can trust or believe!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Caroline England on another absolutely addictive page turner!! I would love to see this turned into a movie and I will be the first in the line to by tickets. This is the exact reason you are on my favourite author list Caroline and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Overall an explosive, addictive action packed page turner that is filled with secrets, lies, love, loss and shocks with explosive twists that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
@CarolineEngland @cazengland1 @bullingtonpress @lovebookstours @lbtcrew @KellyALacey
#TheReturnOfFrankieWhittle #CarolineEngland #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
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March 3, 2025
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' by Caroline England
'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Caroline discusses/includes miscarriage, cults and rape. Deborah has covered these topics as sensitively as possible to tell the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'The Shadows Of Rutherford House' published under CE Rose which I would also highly recommend!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! What an absolutely, addictive page turning book with everything you could ask for!!
What an absolutely addictive page turner!! This is the first book I have read by Caroline Rose under this name with CE Rose penname being more gothic novels. It may be the first book I have read by l but I can promise you it won't be the last!!! As soon as I've written this up I'm off to add all her books under Caroline England to my wishlist. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, shocks, secrets, lies, tension and suspense.I loved the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters with the main protagonists being Frankie and her mum Nina. It really is one of those books that have such a variety of genres going on it is a must read for everyone. I was completely sucked into the storyline and the way Caroline weaves the lives together was absolutely perfect! It is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions too from love and happiness to anger and despair. It also had so many absolutely explosive twists that I would never have guessed in a million years so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Caroline!!! It is getting harder and harder to shock me but you completely blew my mind with this ending. The atmosphere was perfect with a gothic chill to it that really set the story and made it come alive. It is filled with mystery, love, loss, friendship, romance, betrayal, lies , twists and turns and soooo much more!! It is an extremely gripping and addictive storyline and I was sucked in immediately from the very first page to the last. The storyline was believable and I cannot wait to read more books by this very talented author!!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. The character development was strong throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each and every single one of them. The story begins with Frankie and I found it fascinating to "watch" her develop throughout the storyline as she discovers more and more about her past. It was absolutely fascinating discovering all the secrets of this family and community with a past like no other and I would love to go back to visit in another of this amazing authors books!! Hint, hint Caroline 😉. As with all books, movies and in real life we can't get on with everyone and there were a few characters that I could not stand but I will not reveal anymore. You will just have to pick up a copy of discover the secrets and shadows of Frankie Whittle yourself. The only thing that I would have liked to find out more in the end is about Toby and what happened to him. Each of the characters had their own individual and unique personalities, flaws, strengths, quirks and weaknesses as well as many of them hiding their own secrets. You have no idea who you can trust or believe!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Caroline England on another absolutely addictive page turner!! I would love to see this turned into a movie and I will be the first in the line to by tickets. This is the exact reason you are on my favourite author list Caroline and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Overall an explosive, addictive action packed page turner that is filled with secrets, lies, love, loss and shocks with explosive twists that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
@CarolineEngland @cazengland1 @bullingtonpress @lovebookstours @lbtcrew @KellyALacey
#TheReturnOfFrankieWhittle #CarolineEngland #Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
https://mobile.twitter.com/kcmw86
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile/a...
Review for 'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' by Caroline England
'The Return Of Frankie Whittle' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Caroline discusses/includes miscarriage, cults and rape. Deborah has covered these topics as sensitively as possible to tell the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have also read 'The Shadows Of Rutherford House' published under CE Rose which I would also highly recommend!
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
WOW!! What an absolutely, addictive page turning book with everything you could ask for!!
What an absolutely addictive page turner!! This is the first book I have read by Caroline Rose under this name with CE Rose penname being more gothic novels. It may be the first book I have read by l but I can promise you it won't be the last!!! As soon as I've written this up I'm off to add all her books under Caroline England to my wishlist. I was completely sucked into the pages from start to finish and was gutted when it came to an end! The storyline is multi-layered and absolutely ram packed with mystery, deceit, shocks, secrets, lies, tension and suspense.I loved the fact that there wasn't just the main storyline but plenty of other events going on to absolutely grip the readers attention. I enjoyed looking into the lives of several of the characters with the main protagonists being Frankie and her mum Nina. It really is one of those books that have such a variety of genres going on it is a must read for everyone. I was completely sucked into the storyline and the way Caroline weaves the lives together was absolutely perfect! It is such a rollercoaster ride of emotions too from love and happiness to anger and despair. It also had so many absolutely explosive twists that I would never have guessed in a million years so a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Caroline!!! It is getting harder and harder to shock me but you completely blew my mind with this ending. The atmosphere was perfect with a gothic chill to it that really set the story and made it come alive. It is filled with mystery, love, loss, friendship, romance, betrayal, lies , twists and turns and soooo much more!! It is an extremely gripping and addictive storyline and I was sucked in immediately from the very first page to the last. The storyline was believable and I cannot wait to read more books by this very talented author!!
DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT READING THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!
I wasn't just 100% invested in the storyline but also in the characters. Every single one of the characters were well defined, realistic and strong. The character development was strong throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each and every single one of them. The story begins with Frankie and I found it fascinating to "watch" her develop throughout the storyline as she discovers more and more about her past. It was absolutely fascinating discovering all the secrets of this family and community with a past like no other and I would love to go back to visit in another of this amazing authors books!! Hint, hint Caroline 😉. As with all books, movies and in real life we can't get on with everyone and there were a few characters that I could not stand but I will not reveal anymore. You will just have to pick up a copy of discover the secrets and shadows of Frankie Whittle yourself. The only thing that I would have liked to find out more in the end is about Toby and what happened to him. Each of the characters had their own individual and unique personalities, flaws, strengths, quirks and weaknesses as well as many of them hiding their own secrets. You have no idea who you can trust or believe!!!
A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Caroline England on another absolutely addictive page turner!! I would love to see this turned into a movie and I will be the first in the line to by tickets. This is the exact reason you are on my favourite author list Caroline and here's to your next explosive success 🥂!!!
Overall an explosive, addictive action packed page turner that is filled with secrets, lies, love, loss and shocks with explosive twists that will keep you hooked until you've finished!!!
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April 1, 2025
Frankie seems to have it all. A loving husband, Toby, a career she loves and she is happily expecting a baby. However one night she is asleep when an intruder threatens her and she loses the baby. Told mainly from Frankie’s POV with some chapters from her mother Nina this is a dark and at times disturbing story, please be aware of possible triggers around rape, fertility and childbirth issues.
Briefly, with things not good at home, and worries about her safety, Frankie goes to visit Nina in Manchester. She also visits a private hospital to discuss her fertility issues. Then she discovers what seems to be the answer to her problems. A gated community with just a small number of properties but she needs to persuade Toby to move from London. However, Toby isn’t keen, in fact he is against the move, so after a disagreement with Nina Frankie moves in alone. At first all seems good and the neighbours friendly, but soon little niggles start to grow and Frankie becomes worried for her safety.
This book gets really creepy after Frankie’s move into Pavilion Gardens, it really put me on edge and I just wanted her to get the hell out. The relationship between Frankie and Nina made me sad - I did think Frankie was a bit self absorbed and bordering on selfish. There were some great twists and turns and so many reveals, some of which were a complete shock. This was a fairly quick read, compelling and with a good plot, very entertaining.
Briefly, with things not good at home, and worries about her safety, Frankie goes to visit Nina in Manchester. She also visits a private hospital to discuss her fertility issues. Then she discovers what seems to be the answer to her problems. A gated community with just a small number of properties but she needs to persuade Toby to move from London. However, Toby isn’t keen, in fact he is against the move, so after a disagreement with Nina Frankie moves in alone. At first all seems good and the neighbours friendly, but soon little niggles start to grow and Frankie becomes worried for her safety.
This book gets really creepy after Frankie’s move into Pavilion Gardens, it really put me on edge and I just wanted her to get the hell out. The relationship between Frankie and Nina made me sad - I did think Frankie was a bit self absorbed and bordering on selfish. There were some great twists and turns and so many reveals, some of which were a complete shock. This was a fairly quick read, compelling and with a good plot, very entertaining.
February 8, 2025
Well, that was a highly disturbing read, to say the least! The cover and plot concept immediately drew me into this one, with super creepy vibes from start to finish. It did take me a little while to get into as it was a slow build up to the actual story, but I was on the edge of my seat needing to know where this was going and I ended up flying through the pages in a few sittings. The numerous twists were surprisingly unexpected, and i did enjoy them even though this was quite a sinister and extreme case of "be careful what you wish for." I really liked Nina. As a single mum, i could really relate with her just trying to do her best, but i felt a little sad with how Frankie would treat her at times.
However, it is worth noting that It is a very dark read, so there are a fair few triggers to be aware of.
However, it is worth noting that It is a very dark read, so there are a fair few triggers to be aware of.
February 2, 2025
The Return of Frankie Whittle is a very well written captivating book. I was hooded on from the very first page and finished the book in two sittings. The writing style is so captivating, and with plenty of twists and turns, it'll keep you hooked.
The storyline follows Frankie and her husband Toby, living in London and with a baby on the way. One frightful night, everything changes, which leads to Frankie wanting a fresh start.
I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller. I can not wait to read more of the author's work. Highly recommend.
The storyline follows Frankie and her husband Toby, living in London and with a baby on the way. One frightful night, everything changes, which leads to Frankie wanting a fresh start.
I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller. I can not wait to read more of the author's work. Highly recommend.
February 5, 2025
This book was so full of twists and turns and what was going on moments, and it had me hooked from the very first page to the very last.
I really liked the characters in the book. Most were very relatable and made the book that much more enjoyable.
I have been reading more and more thrillers recently, but I am still so bad at guessing what is going to happen, and this book was no exception, I was kept guessing until the very end.
I really liked the characters in the book. Most were very relatable and made the book that much more enjoyable.
I have been reading more and more thrillers recently, but I am still so bad at guessing what is going to happen, and this book was no exception, I was kept guessing until the very end.
January 10, 2025
I spent the first two-thirds of this thinking where on earth is this going to go. It was so layered with twists and turns and a number of interlinked characters that I really didn't see what the end goal was. All of a sudden, that changed, and the action ramped up, and the story started tying up loose ends. That last third was so gripping, I couldn't put it down.
This is darker than I'd usually read and has some really tough topics being explored, including infertility, miscarriage, incest, coercion, murder and rape. Some topics are referenced from off-page, and others happen in front of your eyes. It's something to be aware of before you start reading.
This is tidied up for the most part. However, there is definitely still more that could be explored should the author choose to, and I'd love to revisit these characters again to see a complete resolution
This is darker than I'd usually read and has some really tough topics being explored, including infertility, miscarriage, incest, coercion, murder and rape. Some topics are referenced from off-page, and others happen in front of your eyes. It's something to be aware of before you start reading.
This is tidied up for the most part. However, there is definitely still more that could be explored should the author choose to, and I'd love to revisit these characters again to see a complete resolution
March 23, 2025
This was certainly an odd read that had me uneasy throughout. I knew something wasn't right in Frankie's relationship and I knew w were in for something unusual with the prologue but I couldn't quite place what was feeling off for me. I couldn't put this down as I needed to know just how far things were going to go and I felt invested in Frankie's journey. I'm glad she has a fire in her belly as she did claw things back when she needed to although I'm not sure I would have made the decisions she made in the end.
Definitely a riveting read with a few surprises along the way. Only thing I felt I missed was more about Toby. I feel like I need to know more about what he's up to as he never sat right with me and I feel like there even more to know.
Still ... Well worth a read with an eerie cultish feel 🙂
Definitely a riveting read with a few surprises along the way. Only thing I felt I missed was more about Toby. I feel like I need to know more about what he's up to as he never sat right with me and I feel like there even more to know.
Still ... Well worth a read with an eerie cultish feel 🙂
March 14, 2025
This is actually the first book that I've read by this author (even though I do have another on my tbr stacks still!) and I was completely hooked right from the start!
Let's start with the creepy looking front cover. When described initially in the book, the gated community sounds perfect - but I honestly couldn't get the image from the cover out of my mind throughout.
The first few chapters take time to really introduce our main characters to us and I really felt for Frankie and the situation she found herself in.
I don't really want to say too much about the plot, to avoid any spoilers - but I found it really easy to connect with Frankie at this point.
Having grown up in Manchester, I absolutely ate up all the sights. The descriptions and areas that Frankie visited brought back so many memories for me. I loved this and could visualise each moment vividly!
As more characters are introduced, I found myself struggling to trust anyone and the more the story unfolded, the more I worried for Frankie and Toby.
With some really well presented and developed side characters that added layers to what was already an intriguing storyline, I started making my own theories on how each would play their part going forward ....and I could not have imagined how this would play out in the end!!
This was a twisty and dark plot that had me gripped from start to finish - I honestly struggled to put this down!
I loved the fast pace and the short chapters that had me racing ahead.
I spent this whole read on edge and just waiting for something else to happen and although this was relatively slow burn, this was right up my street!
I loved every minute!
Frankie was a fantastic character to explore and I loved how this book ended with everything tied up so perfectly.
A brilliantly well written psychological thriller and I cannot wait to read more from this author in the near future!
March 25, 2025
The story follows Frankie. After a frightening experience, Frankie wants to leave London and relocate to Manchester. However, her husband Toby is not convinced. Frankie finds the perfect gated community, where the residents welcome her with open arms. Toby starts to come around to the idea, and it feels like life is back on track. But is everyone really as friendly as they seem?
This is a slow burn thriller/crime story. It is well written and kept me invested throughout the story. The author does a great job of setting the scene and building the tension. It definitely had Stepford wives and Rosemary's Baby vibes!
At times, I didn't really like Frankie's character, I thought she was selfish and acted childish when things did not go her way, although she does suffer trauma early in the book which accounts for some of this behaviour. That said, Frankie faces a lot of difficulties in the book and I did feel for her and wanted things to work out. Her husband is also incredibly self-absorbed. I really liked her mother Nina who was so loving and caring. She really wanted the best for Frankie despite so very difficult circumstances. The author did a great job of bringing all the characters to life within the story.
I really enjoyed the plot and how the book was told from Frankie and Nina's point of view as it felt like we got to know them really well. There were some shocking revelations!
If you like a twisted thriller, I highly recommend this book.
With huge thanks to the author, Bullington Press and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book for me to review.
This is a slow burn thriller/crime story. It is well written and kept me invested throughout the story. The author does a great job of setting the scene and building the tension. It definitely had Stepford wives and Rosemary's Baby vibes!
At times, I didn't really like Frankie's character, I thought she was selfish and acted childish when things did not go her way, although she does suffer trauma early in the book which accounts for some of this behaviour. That said, Frankie faces a lot of difficulties in the book and I did feel for her and wanted things to work out. Her husband is also incredibly self-absorbed. I really liked her mother Nina who was so loving and caring. She really wanted the best for Frankie despite so very difficult circumstances. The author did a great job of bringing all the characters to life within the story.
I really enjoyed the plot and how the book was told from Frankie and Nina's point of view as it felt like we got to know them really well. There were some shocking revelations!
If you like a twisted thriller, I highly recommend this book.
With huge thanks to the author, Bullington Press and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book for me to review.
February 15, 2025
What a read this is! You feel all the suspense, thrill and emotions as the story progresses. Following Francesca - Frankie - she's in a relationship with her husband Toby, he seems more interested in his job than her and when she falls pregnant after their first miscarriage, she thought it would change it perspective. Little did she realise, his plans were much different.
Wanting to move after a burglary, Frankie comes across Pavilion Gardens, on the face of it, it's stunning, a gated community, a place to feel safe, a new start. Everyone seems friendly, wanting to get to know their new neighbours but something isn't right but Frankie can't put her finger on it. The building has a haunting past that gets uncovered but when past and future collide, Frankie is caught up in it all. Whether she wanted to be or not!
Close knit residents, gated community, secrets, lies, suspense, twists and turns, this book has it all! I really liked how the storyline kept me intrigued, a pretty quick read and Caroline is a new to me author so I'll be on the lookout for more!
Wanting to move after a burglary, Frankie comes across Pavilion Gardens, on the face of it, it's stunning, a gated community, a place to feel safe, a new start. Everyone seems friendly, wanting to get to know their new neighbours but something isn't right but Frankie can't put her finger on it. The building has a haunting past that gets uncovered but when past and future collide, Frankie is caught up in it all. Whether she wanted to be or not!
Close knit residents, gated community, secrets, lies, suspense, twists and turns, this book has it all! I really liked how the storyline kept me intrigued, a pretty quick read and Caroline is a new to me author so I'll be on the lookout for more!
March 1, 2025
A HUGE thank you to the wonderful team at Love Book Tours for having me on their readalong.
I absolutely adored it from start to finish. The characterisation was fantastic! I absolutely loved the dual pov, both written in first person, as it added such a depth to the narrative and kept me on my toes! I didn’t know who to trust & the fact we were hearing different recounts or responses to the same scenario added such a thrilling layer to the already twisty narrative. Caroline England told the story in such an enticing way, full of drama & plot twists, that it had me captivated from the word go, until the last word on the very last page. I loved the fact that from the very first moment I opened the book, I just didn’t know what to expect, who to trust & quite frankly, what the end result would be.
An absolutely INCREDIBLE read & one I would recommend every single person to read !
I absolutely adored it from start to finish. The characterisation was fantastic! I absolutely loved the dual pov, both written in first person, as it added such a depth to the narrative and kept me on my toes! I didn’t know who to trust & the fact we were hearing different recounts or responses to the same scenario added such a thrilling layer to the already twisty narrative. Caroline England told the story in such an enticing way, full of drama & plot twists, that it had me captivated from the word go, until the last word on the very last page. I loved the fact that from the very first moment I opened the book, I just didn’t know what to expect, who to trust & quite frankly, what the end result would be.
An absolutely INCREDIBLE read & one I would recommend every single person to read !
March 16, 2025
This was fantastic and I could not put it down. The psychological thriller element was fantastic. It really played with my mind. Which is rare for me. The premise of the book was excellent. It was so well thought out.
The story flowed well and was written perfectly. It was descriptive and chilling at times. There were no issues and no unanswered questions.
The characters were extraordinary. I loved Frankie to begin with. She was smart, determined, also brave in her own way. Nina was a great lady. She seemed lots of fun. She cared deeply and that was important. Jerome, I felt so sad for him and his parents. Toby I could take or leave. He was disgusting. The other characters were great and worked so well together to make this a great read.
The book was written in first person and was from both Nina and Frankie's points of view. The book was split into four parts. The first part was the POV of both. The second and fourth parts were Frankie's POV and the third part was Nina's. I liked this a lot and it worked so well.
I highly recommend this to all of you. Especially if you enjoy a chilling psychological thriller.
The story flowed well and was written perfectly. It was descriptive and chilling at times. There were no issues and no unanswered questions.
The characters were extraordinary. I loved Frankie to begin with. She was smart, determined, also brave in her own way. Nina was a great lady. She seemed lots of fun. She cared deeply and that was important. Jerome, I felt so sad for him and his parents. Toby I could take or leave. He was disgusting. The other characters were great and worked so well together to make this a great read.
The book was written in first person and was from both Nina and Frankie's points of view. The book was split into four parts. The first part was the POV of both. The second and fourth parts were Frankie's POV and the third part was Nina's. I liked this a lot and it worked so well.
I highly recommend this to all of you. Especially if you enjoy a chilling psychological thriller.
February 21, 2025
Caroline has a great background of gothic reads and the cover of this suggests that's exactly what we're getting.
Frankie Whittle lives with her double-barrelled surname boyfriend in a flat in London. They've been happy together for years but he craves a promotion while she craves to start a family.
After a terrifying incident Frankie flees to her mums in Didsbury. While she's there she falls in love with a house in a gated community. The site of a former workhouse.
As you're reading you're being drip fed little clues, little indicators that things aren't as they seem. You don't always realise until all is revealed.
As all is revealed, well my goodness. What a revelation. So much of which I didn't see coming. So dark. It just kept getting worse!
I did like Frankie but at times to found her to be selfish and entitled even. Her husband was very patient I thought! I raced through it as I simply had to find out what on earth was going on.
Another incredible read from this brilliant sinister gothic writer.
Frankie Whittle lives with her double-barrelled surname boyfriend in a flat in London. They've been happy together for years but he craves a promotion while she craves to start a family.
After a terrifying incident Frankie flees to her mums in Didsbury. While she's there she falls in love with a house in a gated community. The site of a former workhouse.
As you're reading you're being drip fed little clues, little indicators that things aren't as they seem. You don't always realise until all is revealed.
As all is revealed, well my goodness. What a revelation. So much of which I didn't see coming. So dark. It just kept getting worse!
I did like Frankie but at times to found her to be selfish and entitled even. Her husband was very patient I thought! I raced through it as I simply had to find out what on earth was going on.
Another incredible read from this brilliant sinister gothic writer.
March 1, 2025
Thriller lovers are going to love Caroline England's writing style, its centred around Frankie who
unknowingly faces some challenges from her past and future (I don't want to give spoilers
sorry). The book has everything you need from character development (numerous characters so
no boredom here!), looking at how absences can control & alter other people's lives. The
characters develop as secrets and past regrets come to the forefront and you must ask yourself
- How does the past impact the future? Can you trust everyone around you or do they have
secrets you didn't know exist – this novel will have you questioning everything.
unknowingly faces some challenges from her past and future (I don't want to give spoilers
sorry). The book has everything you need from character development (numerous characters so
no boredom here!), looking at how absences can control & alter other people's lives. The
characters develop as secrets and past regrets come to the forefront and you must ask yourself
- How does the past impact the future? Can you trust everyone around you or do they have
secrets you didn't know exist – this novel will have you questioning everything.
February 12, 2025
Think the creepiness of rosemarys baby then modernise it then build the creep up. There you go!
This started off promising and loving and got dark and deep and turned around to what the heck.
Brilliant. Every time this author just gets the creep vibe so right!
This started off promising and loving and got dark and deep and turned around to what the heck.
Brilliant. Every time this author just gets the creep vibe so right!
March 31, 2025
A disturbing delve into the life of Francesca, where choices made may not be as freely decided...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2025
When a disastrous night causes Frankie to leave behind her life in London, she returns to her hometown. She finds comfort in a house within a gated community, however all is not as it seems.
A thoroughly unpredictable thriller full of twists that you'll never see coming.
One of my favourite things about this book was the atmospheric setting in the community. It worked perfectly alongside the dark and twisty plot. I also loved seeing the Manchester suburbs feature among the locations because it made the book feel more original and authentic.
I enjoyed following Frankie as a character and seeing how she navigated some very tense scenes. I was definitely rooting for her throughout.
If you like psychological thrillers you will enjoy The Return of Frankie Whittle as it is like no story I have ever read before!
A thoroughly unpredictable thriller full of twists that you'll never see coming.
One of my favourite things about this book was the atmospheric setting in the community. It worked perfectly alongside the dark and twisty plot. I also loved seeing the Manchester suburbs feature among the locations because it made the book feel more original and authentic.
I enjoyed following Frankie as a character and seeing how she navigated some very tense scenes. I was definitely rooting for her throughout.
If you like psychological thrillers you will enjoy The Return of Frankie Whittle as it is like no story I have ever read before!
January 24, 2025
The Return of Frankie Whittle by Caroline England is an exciting thriller packed with mystery, drama, and psychological twists. If you love stories that dive into the darker aspects of human nature and explore the hidden sides of life, you need to check this out. Caroline skillfully depicted both the London backdrop and the characters. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys suspenseful tales and mysteries.
I want to thank Kelly from Love Book Tours and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
I want to thank Kelly from Love Book Tours and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
February 8, 2025
This book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for something to happen then when it does its not what you expect to happen it's the most psychological crime fiction with a Thrilling suspense to it it's full of twists and family secrets it does leave you thinking that can't be it surely something else is going happen then it does. I loved this book it's a page turner for me a must read I'm wanting from this author. I did receive this as an arc from the author and love book tours tha k for having me on this tour the book is out on 8th Feb.
March 28, 2025
As soon as I read the blurb for this book I had ti read it…
The Return of Frankie Whittle by Caroline England starts with such a creepy prologue and Caroline does an awesome job at keeping those creepy vibes vibing throughout this book.
I really don’t want to give to much away but I will say I really wasn’t prepared for how unsettling and twisted this book turned out to be…
If you enjoy suspense and are okay with reading about dark topics definitely give this book a read 🤓
The Return of Frankie Whittle by Caroline England starts with such a creepy prologue and Caroline does an awesome job at keeping those creepy vibes vibing throughout this book.
I really don’t want to give to much away but I will say I really wasn’t prepared for how unsettling and twisted this book turned out to be…
If you enjoy suspense and are okay with reading about dark topics definitely give this book a read 🤓
March 17, 2025
The Return of Frankie Whittle was an interesting read, what started off as slow to get into, turned into I couldn't put it down. I was gripped! This mystery with it's suspense threw me for a loop, I just didn't expect the twists and turns that this novel gave me. I was thinking I was getting one thing but I got a whole lot more! I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I really liked Frankie, her character was created with a multitude of sides to her, she was vulnerable but also strong. I loved how she developed and how she tackled everything thrown at her. Toby I felt wasn't as fleshed out but saying that it felt right to his character, all the other characters were created really well and really added to the storyline. I really enjoyed the writing style and the direction the story went, loved the twists and turns and the overall outcome. A great read!
I really liked Frankie, her character was created with a multitude of sides to her, she was vulnerable but also strong. I loved how she developed and how she tackled everything thrown at her. Toby I felt wasn't as fleshed out but saying that it felt right to his character, all the other characters were created really well and really added to the storyline. I really enjoyed the writing style and the direction the story went, loved the twists and turns and the overall outcome. A great read!
February 8, 2025
i so very much enjoyed this story it has it all gripping twisty and so creepy. Frankie is married to Toby both have good jobs, they live in London, but Toby wants more. they have been trying for a baby and finally it has happened. Frankies hometown is Didsbury she goes to visit her mum and meet up with a friend and heads back to London that night while alone in her home a masked burglar is standing over her while she asleep Frankie no longer feels safe and goes to her mum poor Frankie loses the baby, she wants her and Toby to move to her hometown .and she goes house hunting . and she falls in love with the house in Pavillion gardens a gated community. won't say no more but the story is just so good lies deceit someone will do anything to get what they want
March 6, 2025
Quite shamefully, although I have a few of her books in my tbr pile, I think this is the first of Caroline England's books I've read. Quite a good place to start as it turns out as this creeping psychological thriller really captured my attention and held it from the first page to the last. Focused on the protagonist Frankie Whittle, we follow her and her husband, Toby, as she is subjected to a traumatic experience that ultimately proves to be life changing. When her life, and sense of security, in London disintegrate, Frankie decides to move back home to be closer to her mother, setting her heart upon a home in a gated community where she believes she can final feel safe and start again. But Pavillion Gardens has unexpected links to her family's past, and that heartily fought for sense of peace is not as long lasting as Frankie might have hoped.
I will be honest. I found Frankie a little hard to connect to at the very beginning, but the more I got to know her, the more I felt for her. Not only her position and the loss she experiences early on in the book, but also for the way in which those around her seem to be keeping closely guarded secrets. Her mother especially clearly knows something she isn't telling Frankie, and that particular revelation comes to inform Frankie's story in increasingly dark and disturbing ways. There is a sense of foreboding and mistrust that Caroline England builds into the narrative from the start and it is really hard to know quite who to trust. There are characters who are overly bright and effusive - an instant red alert to me in any novel other than romance - but others who you think Frankie ought to be able to trust that I could feel causing my hackles to rise a bit. It was a skilful bit of writing with one particular character who came across as pathetically insipid and lacking in back bone, and the revelations about them, whilst not entirely unexpected, definitely caused a sense of anger on Frankie's behalf.
Now, there are some elements of Frankie's story, when revealed, that are actually quite dark. They are kept off the page, but when you learn of the deceptions and the level that certain characters stoop to in order to get what they want it makes the skin crawl and the blood boil. The book did put me in mind of a particular horror novel from the 1960s (that I can't name for fear of spoilers) although without the supernatural twist. The plot is perhaps equally as twisted, but for more corporeal reasons, and although the reasoning behind what happens is abhorrent, it is sadly a touch to believable as well. This is a story about abuse - both physical and of trust - and whilst in the early part of the book you may be lulled into a false sense of security, that this might just be a relationship based drama about a married couple recovering from a tragedy, Caroline England skilfully weaves in those twists, turns and that undulating tension that will swiftly disabuse you of that notion.
The final revelation, when it comes, does seem to happen rather quickly, and the implications of what Frankie ultimately uncovers are actually quite stark and disturbing, but I like how Caroline England has played this and the finale is perhaps the most fitting that anyone could hope for. A cautionary tale perhaps, to be wary of perfection. That Stepford wife style blissful perfection only happens in fiction, and it usually comes with intolerable conditions attached. An absorbing and sometimes chilling read that kept my attention rapt. FAns of psychological fiction will love it. Time to see what else is hiding in the author's back catalogue.
I will be honest. I found Frankie a little hard to connect to at the very beginning, but the more I got to know her, the more I felt for her. Not only her position and the loss she experiences early on in the book, but also for the way in which those around her seem to be keeping closely guarded secrets. Her mother especially clearly knows something she isn't telling Frankie, and that particular revelation comes to inform Frankie's story in increasingly dark and disturbing ways. There is a sense of foreboding and mistrust that Caroline England builds into the narrative from the start and it is really hard to know quite who to trust. There are characters who are overly bright and effusive - an instant red alert to me in any novel other than romance - but others who you think Frankie ought to be able to trust that I could feel causing my hackles to rise a bit. It was a skilful bit of writing with one particular character who came across as pathetically insipid and lacking in back bone, and the revelations about them, whilst not entirely unexpected, definitely caused a sense of anger on Frankie's behalf.
Now, there are some elements of Frankie's story, when revealed, that are actually quite dark. They are kept off the page, but when you learn of the deceptions and the level that certain characters stoop to in order to get what they want it makes the skin crawl and the blood boil. The book did put me in mind of a particular horror novel from the 1960s (that I can't name for fear of spoilers) although without the supernatural twist. The plot is perhaps equally as twisted, but for more corporeal reasons, and although the reasoning behind what happens is abhorrent, it is sadly a touch to believable as well. This is a story about abuse - both physical and of trust - and whilst in the early part of the book you may be lulled into a false sense of security, that this might just be a relationship based drama about a married couple recovering from a tragedy, Caroline England skilfully weaves in those twists, turns and that undulating tension that will swiftly disabuse you of that notion.
The final revelation, when it comes, does seem to happen rather quickly, and the implications of what Frankie ultimately uncovers are actually quite stark and disturbing, but I like how Caroline England has played this and the finale is perhaps the most fitting that anyone could hope for. A cautionary tale perhaps, to be wary of perfection. That Stepford wife style blissful perfection only happens in fiction, and it usually comes with intolerable conditions attached. An absorbing and sometimes chilling read that kept my attention rapt. FAns of psychological fiction will love it. Time to see what else is hiding in the author's back catalogue.
February 20, 2025
Gated communities. Upmarket, expensive, exclusive? Or slightly creepy, selective, with a hidden agenda lurking behind a calm façade? Maybe even both?
When Frankie Whittle discovers that the place where she was born has been redeveloped as Pavilion Gardens, a beautiful, gated estate close to where she was brought up in a leafy Manchester suburb, it feels like the answer to her prayers. Frankie is recovering from a miscarriage brought on by a terrifying experience in the London flat she shares with husband Toby. She is keen to get out of London, and wants the support of her mum Nina, who still lives nearby.
Frankie and Toby move into a vacant house in Pavilion Gardens, and are quickly drawn into the community, which consists of young professional couples like themselves, and is overseen by an older couple, Ursula and Fabian. Frankie settles into life at Pavilion Gardens quickly, makes friends and is soon pregnant again, as are several of the other young women.
But things are not as perfect as they seem. Toby is less comfortable; he is ambitious, and it is important to him to be in London for his job, though Frankie can work remotely. Cracks begin to appear in their relationship, and she has already fallen out with her mother, who has been harbouring secrets.
One of the novel’s great strengths is a vivid, almost filmic sense of place. Caroline England clearly knows this area of Manchester very well indeed, and in Pavilion Gardens she has created a tight-knit community in startling visual detail. The neatly manicured lawns; Ursula and Fabian’s museum-like home; the slightly ominous brick edifice looming over the development, now an office block but historically the workhouse: it all contributes to a faint air of menace.
The characters, too, are distinctly in two camps: the well-polished, hospitable residents of Pavilion Gardens on one side, and the far less perfect people on the outside, such as Nina, and Toby’s over-critical mother. And then there’s Jerome, Ursula and Fabian’s son. More secrets lurk there.
The questions keep on coming. Why did Nina hide the letter that reveals the biggest secret of all? Why do Ursula and Fabian have so many old photographs of workhouse residents? What happened to their other son? When the seemingly perfect life of Pavilion Gardens goes pear-shaped, as inevitably it must or there would be no story, it happens in the most unexpected way. All the clues are there, but well masked, and it falls to Frankie to get to the bottom of a dangerous and destructive situation. It adds up to the kind of novel that will keep you guessing right to the end.
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Reviewer: Lynne Patrick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
When Frankie Whittle discovers that the place where she was born has been redeveloped as Pavilion Gardens, a beautiful, gated estate close to where she was brought up in a leafy Manchester suburb, it feels like the answer to her prayers. Frankie is recovering from a miscarriage brought on by a terrifying experience in the London flat she shares with husband Toby. She is keen to get out of London, and wants the support of her mum Nina, who still lives nearby.
Frankie and Toby move into a vacant house in Pavilion Gardens, and are quickly drawn into the community, which consists of young professional couples like themselves, and is overseen by an older couple, Ursula and Fabian. Frankie settles into life at Pavilion Gardens quickly, makes friends and is soon pregnant again, as are several of the other young women.
But things are not as perfect as they seem. Toby is less comfortable; he is ambitious, and it is important to him to be in London for his job, though Frankie can work remotely. Cracks begin to appear in their relationship, and she has already fallen out with her mother, who has been harbouring secrets.
One of the novel’s great strengths is a vivid, almost filmic sense of place. Caroline England clearly knows this area of Manchester very well indeed, and in Pavilion Gardens she has created a tight-knit community in startling visual detail. The neatly manicured lawns; Ursula and Fabian’s museum-like home; the slightly ominous brick edifice looming over the development, now an office block but historically the workhouse: it all contributes to a faint air of menace.
The characters, too, are distinctly in two camps: the well-polished, hospitable residents of Pavilion Gardens on one side, and the far less perfect people on the outside, such as Nina, and Toby’s over-critical mother. And then there’s Jerome, Ursula and Fabian’s son. More secrets lurk there.
The questions keep on coming. Why did Nina hide the letter that reveals the biggest secret of all? Why do Ursula and Fabian have so many old photographs of workhouse residents? What happened to their other son? When the seemingly perfect life of Pavilion Gardens goes pear-shaped, as inevitably it must or there would be no story, it happens in the most unexpected way. All the clues are there, but well masked, and it falls to Frankie to get to the bottom of a dangerous and destructive situation. It adds up to the kind of novel that will keep you guessing right to the end.
------
Reviewer: Lynne Patrick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
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