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I Did It for Us
'From the first time I saw them together I knew it felt wrong. I didn't like the way he touched her or the self-conscious way he played with Molly and Luke. Joanne saw none of it of course. So I did it to prove to her that she was wrong. I did it for us.'
Emily's instincts tell her that best friend Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne. Fears for Joanne's children. But Joanne won't listen because she's in love. So Emily watches and waits...and then she makes a choice. But Emily has a past, and secrets, too. And is she really as good a friend to Joanne as she claims?
Emily's instincts tell her that best friend Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne. Fears for Joanne's children. But Joanne won't listen because she's in love. So Emily watches and waits...and then she makes a choice. But Emily has a past, and secrets, too. And is she really as good a friend to Joanne as she claims?
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First published January 4, 2018
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About the author
Alison Bruce
34 books239 followersThere is more than one author with this name
Alison Bruce was born in Surrey, United Kingdom, and now lives in Cambridge.
Alison Bruce was born in Surrey, United Kingdom, and now lives in Cambridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
September 15, 2018
This was book of 2 stories. I was hooked straight away and stayed up late to finish it as I could not work out how it was going to end. The ending really surprised me. There was still a lot of unanswered questions about the first part of the story which was a bit annoying. It was a quick and easy read that overall I really enjoyed.
In the beginning we see Emily in court, accusing her husbands best friend of rape. The rest of the story is what happens afterwards and how things have changed. Emily makes a new friend in Joanne but when she meets her boyfriend she struggles to trust him. She sets out to help her friend. Emily is a confusing character that makes it hard to know what to believe. .
Thanks to Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for my copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
In the beginning we see Emily in court, accusing her husbands best friend of rape. The rest of the story is what happens afterwards and how things have changed. Emily makes a new friend in Joanne but when she meets her boyfriend she struggles to trust him. She sets out to help her friend. Emily is a confusing character that makes it hard to know what to believe. .
Thanks to Little Brown Book Group UK and NetGalley for my copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
January 18, 2018
This was a truly excellent psychological thriller for the most part - Following Emily after her life falls apart, while she tries to put it back together, meeting new people - the beauty of this one comes in Emily's personality - you are never sure all the way through whether she is disturbed or bang on the money when it comes to those around her...
If I had one small bugbear it would be that, for me, the ending didn't really live up to the rest. The whole thing up until the last little bit was unnerving, disturbing and very melancholy, with a sense that there might be something half expected but unexpected at the end. Ultimately though it took the obvious route, which hasn't affected my rating because the fact that the end for me fell a tiny bit flat and that for my own tastes a little too much was left unresolved, doesn't detract from the fact that this is a thumping good read, with genuinely compelling characters and a socially relevant theme.
Fuller review nearer wider publication. Definitely recommended.
If I had one small bugbear it would be that, for me, the ending didn't really live up to the rest. The whole thing up until the last little bit was unnerving, disturbing and very melancholy, with a sense that there might be something half expected but unexpected at the end. Ultimately though it took the obvious route, which hasn't affected my rating because the fact that the end for me fell a tiny bit flat and that for my own tastes a little too much was left unresolved, doesn't detract from the fact that this is a thumping good read, with genuinely compelling characters and a socially relevant theme.
Fuller review nearer wider publication. Definitely recommended.
December 21, 2018
Long-winded & oddly structured character study/psychological thriller with few conclusive revelations.
Readers drawn to the synopsis of I Did It For Us would be forgiven for opening the book and being rather nonplussed because the storyline that opens the novel is NOT the one referred to in the blurb, with the only similarity being the name of the protagonist, Emily. The character of Joanne who is mentioned doesn’t even make an appearance until over eighty pages of the way through the book. Instead, Alison Bruce gives readers what feels like two distinct stories, the first clearly intended as a character study of Emily and the second, a more straightforward psychological thriller.
The novel opens with thirty-year-old and married Emily Stirling in the witness box following her accusation that her husband’s best friend, Andrew Tyler, raped her at a Halloween party. As she herself is effectively put in trial with her every choice scrutinised and sexual history dissected, her parents and best friend, Jess Foley, warn her of the fallout. Further complicated by the fact that Jess is now in a relationship with the accused, snippets of various conversation also seem to allude fo Emily being honest until she finds herself in a tight spot, When the verdict comes it forces Emily to start over and leaving the village of Foxton that she has resided in all her life to move into a rented apartment in the bleak and isolated fenland surroundings of Wicken. Lonely and with no idea how to begin again, the arrival of a downstairs neighbour, thirty-four-year-old Joanne Carter with seven-year-old Molly and five-year-old Luke and her own wish to start afresh seems fortuitous. But when the burgeoning friendship is threatened by the arrival of a man in Joanne’s life in the shape of landlord and property developer, Matt Edwards, Emily quickly senses something “off” about him. Emily’s antipathy towards him smacks of jealousy after her erstwhile efforts to inveigle herself into Joanne and her children’s lives. But just what is going on and, is Emily the only one with a chequered past?
For all my criticism of the novel I found it compelling but I was frustrated by Emily’s rather rambling and drawn-out story of her downfall which seemed to go round in circles. I was eager to get to the real substance of the story and just what was going on in Emily’s mind. The second half of the novel is definitely more engrossing and for a slow-moving novel the sense of ease is palpable and consistently sustained. I suspect this is because Emily is such an unknown quantity and Bruce’s characterisation infuses the whole novel with a menacing tension.
As a character study I found the novel wholly unsatisfying and was dismayed that the first half offered few conclusive revelations, with the reader none the wiser as to whether Emily had lied in accusing her husband’s best friend of rape. Certainly everyone around her, including her parents, husband and best friend, seem in serious doubt and with the veracity of Emily’s first-person narrative screaming unreliability it doesn’t inform the reader ahead of the second part as to Emily’s true nature. Is Emily a victim, liar or simply mentally disturbed? Knowing what the reader does from the first-half should, in theory, leave us better informed for the second part and allow the reader some insight into Emily’s rationale and thought processes. Sadly it doesn’t succeed and perhaps glimpses into Emily’s backstory as she conducted her new friendship with Joanne would have made for a more satisfying reading experience. As for the psychological thriller element, the denouement fell flat and left me disappointed with no comprehensive or convincing explanation for the behaviour of the main players.
Tense but ultimately unsatisfying.
Readers drawn to the synopsis of I Did It For Us would be forgiven for opening the book and being rather nonplussed because the storyline that opens the novel is NOT the one referred to in the blurb, with the only similarity being the name of the protagonist, Emily. The character of Joanne who is mentioned doesn’t even make an appearance until over eighty pages of the way through the book. Instead, Alison Bruce gives readers what feels like two distinct stories, the first clearly intended as a character study of Emily and the second, a more straightforward psychological thriller.
The novel opens with thirty-year-old and married Emily Stirling in the witness box following her accusation that her husband’s best friend, Andrew Tyler, raped her at a Halloween party. As she herself is effectively put in trial with her every choice scrutinised and sexual history dissected, her parents and best friend, Jess Foley, warn her of the fallout. Further complicated by the fact that Jess is now in a relationship with the accused, snippets of various conversation also seem to allude fo Emily being honest until she finds herself in a tight spot, When the verdict comes it forces Emily to start over and leaving the village of Foxton that she has resided in all her life to move into a rented apartment in the bleak and isolated fenland surroundings of Wicken. Lonely and with no idea how to begin again, the arrival of a downstairs neighbour, thirty-four-year-old Joanne Carter with seven-year-old Molly and five-year-old Luke and her own wish to start afresh seems fortuitous. But when the burgeoning friendship is threatened by the arrival of a man in Joanne’s life in the shape of landlord and property developer, Matt Edwards, Emily quickly senses something “off” about him. Emily’s antipathy towards him smacks of jealousy after her erstwhile efforts to inveigle herself into Joanne and her children’s lives. But just what is going on and, is Emily the only one with a chequered past?
For all my criticism of the novel I found it compelling but I was frustrated by Emily’s rather rambling and drawn-out story of her downfall which seemed to go round in circles. I was eager to get to the real substance of the story and just what was going on in Emily’s mind. The second half of the novel is definitely more engrossing and for a slow-moving novel the sense of ease is palpable and consistently sustained. I suspect this is because Emily is such an unknown quantity and Bruce’s characterisation infuses the whole novel with a menacing tension.
As a character study I found the novel wholly unsatisfying and was dismayed that the first half offered few conclusive revelations, with the reader none the wiser as to whether Emily had lied in accusing her husband’s best friend of rape. Certainly everyone around her, including her parents, husband and best friend, seem in serious doubt and with the veracity of Emily’s first-person narrative screaming unreliability it doesn’t inform the reader ahead of the second part as to Emily’s true nature. Is Emily a victim, liar or simply mentally disturbed? Knowing what the reader does from the first-half should, in theory, leave us better informed for the second part and allow the reader some insight into Emily’s rationale and thought processes. Sadly it doesn’t succeed and perhaps glimpses into Emily’s backstory as she conducted her new friendship with Joanne would have made for a more satisfying reading experience. As for the psychological thriller element, the denouement fell flat and left me disappointed with no comprehensive or convincing explanation for the behaviour of the main players.
Tense but ultimately unsatisfying.
May 10, 2018
FINALLY a good audio book. I thought I might have exhausted the supply. But this one has restored my faith. Great narrator and strong story. The ending wasn't perfect and there were a few holes in the plot, but hey, I'll take it. I was engaged the whole way through and I really enjoyed it. 4 strong stars.
August 17, 2018
Aside for a few minor plot holes and an ending which kind of fell flat after such a hype and build up of the story this book was brilliant in every other way! A "real psychological thriller" something to get your teeth sunk into and to devour page after page, this book is after my very own heart I loved how this book was never exactly definitive and deciding it almost allowed the reader to decide for themselves if they believe Emily which isn't something that happens often in a book, usually as readers we are given the story and it is already decided for us start to finish, however it was also annoying and frustrating and a point of contention as I wanted to just know.. ALREADY.
This book is a great read, will definitely read more of this author.
This book is a great read, will definitely read more of this author.
January 4, 2018
I was lucky enough to attend an event at Heffers Cambridge, where Alison's new book was on pre sale!
Having followed Alison through the journey of the Goodhew series I was really excited to see how she would tackle a stand alone.
The story is set in and around Cambridge and we get glimpses from a variety of different angles, how sinister places feel and how quickly you can be out on in the countryside, feeling abandoned, whether by design or choice.
We are taken on a journey through Emily's eyes, she has been estranged from family and friends and making a new chapter of her life.
Not all is as it seems and I loved that i wasn't quite sure what role she was playing - victim, liar, survivor, someone on the edge, or all of the above.
I did it for us has a creepy, single white female theme to it and the relationships between the characters was all slightly off kilter. Making this a psychological thriller of an unreliable nature and you are trying to second guess agendas.
Alison's books have an edge of darkness that are not predictable and this shows her talents in a new light, and I thoroughly enjoy this side of the author's work.
This is an engrossing read that keeps you on your toes and is slightly voyeuristic and uncomfortable.
Whether a new series, or a stand alone is on the horizon I shall be looking forward to what is next.
Having followed Alison through the journey of the Goodhew series I was really excited to see how she would tackle a stand alone.
The story is set in and around Cambridge and we get glimpses from a variety of different angles, how sinister places feel and how quickly you can be out on in the countryside, feeling abandoned, whether by design or choice.
We are taken on a journey through Emily's eyes, she has been estranged from family and friends and making a new chapter of her life.
Not all is as it seems and I loved that i wasn't quite sure what role she was playing - victim, liar, survivor, someone on the edge, or all of the above.
I did it for us has a creepy, single white female theme to it and the relationships between the characters was all slightly off kilter. Making this a psychological thriller of an unreliable nature and you are trying to second guess agendas.
Alison's books have an edge of darkness that are not predictable and this shows her talents in a new light, and I thoroughly enjoy this side of the author's work.
This is an engrossing read that keeps you on your toes and is slightly voyeuristic and uncomfortable.
Whether a new series, or a stand alone is on the horizon I shall be looking forward to what is next.
February 5, 2018
Emily's instincts tell her that best friend Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne and for Joanne's children; Molly and Luke. Joanne will not listen to Emily's fears because she is in love. So Emily watches, waits and then makes a choice over what to do. But Emily has a past full of secrets. Is she really as good a friend to Joanne as she makes out?
Well this novel is not what I was expecting. This starts with a plot thread that is seemingly nothing to do with what the blurb details. I am not going to mention it here and spoil it for you but I really do not understand what Bruce was trying to do. Yes, I see that it is important for showing Emily's character and hinting at her motivations but it makes the novel feel like two separate stories. I think it would have worked better if Bruce had interspersed the beginning plot thread throughout the novel, hinting at Emily's past before revealing it.
Aside from this, once Bruce moves on to the plot that is detailed in the blurb this novel dramatically improves. Once we get into the suspicion over Matt I really enjoyed reading this and was gripped, wanting to know the truth. Then Bruce really ups the excitement with a shocking twist! A twist that I did not see coming and instantly this novel's excitement was ramped up massively, the adrenaline was high and I was in shock from what I was reading. The second half of this novel ensures that this is a must read!
Character wise, Bruce has a fantastic cast of characters. They are all developed enough and likeable enough to be invested in their story. All the way through Bruce hints at different sides to the characters and it is down to the reader to work out which characters are genuine and which are hiding the big secrets.
'I Did It For Us' feels like two stories but two stories that use the same characters. Once the main plot gets going I was engrossed in this and do not forget the shocking twist means this novel's ending is electrifying.
Well this novel is not what I was expecting. This starts with a plot thread that is seemingly nothing to do with what the blurb details. I am not going to mention it here and spoil it for you but I really do not understand what Bruce was trying to do. Yes, I see that it is important for showing Emily's character and hinting at her motivations but it makes the novel feel like two separate stories. I think it would have worked better if Bruce had interspersed the beginning plot thread throughout the novel, hinting at Emily's past before revealing it.
Aside from this, once Bruce moves on to the plot that is detailed in the blurb this novel dramatically improves. Once we get into the suspicion over Matt I really enjoyed reading this and was gripped, wanting to know the truth. Then Bruce really ups the excitement with a shocking twist! A twist that I did not see coming and instantly this novel's excitement was ramped up massively, the adrenaline was high and I was in shock from what I was reading. The second half of this novel ensures that this is a must read!
Character wise, Bruce has a fantastic cast of characters. They are all developed enough and likeable enough to be invested in their story. All the way through Bruce hints at different sides to the characters and it is down to the reader to work out which characters are genuine and which are hiding the big secrets.
'I Did It For Us' feels like two stories but two stories that use the same characters. Once the main plot gets going I was engrossed in this and do not forget the shocking twist means this novel's ending is electrifying.
October 11, 2018
This one surprised me a bit! Going through the book, at first I felt sorry for Emily in the fact that no one seemed to believe her (without merit) in the beginning, but halfway through the book I found myself wondering if Emily had lost her mind!
The ending was very surprising to me but in a good, mysterious kind of way!
Overall, I think this was a great first read from Alison Bruce!
The ending was very surprising to me but in a good, mysterious kind of way!
Overall, I think this was a great first read from Alison Bruce!
February 9, 2019
Listened to in audio format.
I enjoyed the authors DC Gary Goodhew series. Once the series ended I hoped she would write a new standalone book or create a brand new series.
I did it for Us started with the rape trial of Emily. During a Halloween party Emily was raped by her husband's best friend Andrew Tyler. To complicate things, Emily`s best friend Jess was in a relationship with Andrew.
Despite being warned by her parents and Jess of the inevitable repercussions, Emily wanted to press charges against Andrew. The trial went badly and Andrew was found not guilty. Ashamed and let down by her family Emily decided to leave her husband and start again.
Emily moved to a flat away from the village she grew up in. Unemployed and lonely, Emily was was pleased when Joanne Carter and her two children Molly and Luke moved in downstairs. Quickly they struck up a friendship, Emily felt part of the family and often babysat the kids and bought them presents.
Emily was happily until she found out Joanne was engaged. Her boyfriend was their landlord Matt Edwards. Emily disliked Matt because she reminded her of Andrew. Emily had to make Joanne see sense about Matt and decided to fol!ow him.
I wanted to give this book five stars but some aspects of the story were never explained. I initially felt sorry for Emily but as the story progressed her Jealously and fixation with Matt made me wonder if she was losing her sanity.
I loved the twist which was completely unexpected and forced me to change my view of Emily and Joanne.
I enjoyed this tense thriller where you were not sure who you could trust.
I enjoyed the authors DC Gary Goodhew series. Once the series ended I hoped she would write a new standalone book or create a brand new series.
I did it for Us started with the rape trial of Emily. During a Halloween party Emily was raped by her husband's best friend Andrew Tyler. To complicate things, Emily`s best friend Jess was in a relationship with Andrew.
Despite being warned by her parents and Jess of the inevitable repercussions, Emily wanted to press charges against Andrew. The trial went badly and Andrew was found not guilty. Ashamed and let down by her family Emily decided to leave her husband and start again.
Emily moved to a flat away from the village she grew up in. Unemployed and lonely, Emily was was pleased when Joanne Carter and her two children Molly and Luke moved in downstairs. Quickly they struck up a friendship, Emily felt part of the family and often babysat the kids and bought them presents.
Emily was happily until she found out Joanne was engaged. Her boyfriend was their landlord Matt Edwards. Emily disliked Matt because she reminded her of Andrew. Emily had to make Joanne see sense about Matt and decided to fol!ow him.
I wanted to give this book five stars but some aspects of the story were never explained. I initially felt sorry for Emily but as the story progressed her Jealously and fixation with Matt made me wonder if she was losing her sanity.
I loved the twist which was completely unexpected and forced me to change my view of Emily and Joanne.
I enjoyed this tense thriller where you were not sure who you could trust.
February 14, 2022
Full of twists
April 29, 2018
I Did It For Us is an excellent reflection on a woman's response to rape, a trial and the aftermath. Emily is aggravating enough, and yet also poignant, for the reader to sympathise with the other people involved in the tragedy as well as for Emily. For tragedy it is. However, it is Emily's tragedy: a situation which is hard to fully comprehend because we are aware that some of Emily's behaviour is so bizarre. Bizarre? Why wouldn't a traumatised person find it difficult to behave as sensibly as the reader/onlooker would like? The novel forces the reader to realise the horror of rape, that it is Emily with whom we should sympathise and that we should recognise her behaviour for what it is - reaction to extreme trauma. We are brought into the environment in which a woman's determination to seek justice and protect other women result in her being ostracised by everyone except her mother and brother. Her father, best friend, her husband, and their mutual friends find it easier to avoid the reality of Emily's rape and seek comfort in seeing her as the problem - after all, can she really be believed? After all, her past is sexually murky. And, after all, what of the clothes she was wearing? A bit too revealing? Provocative?
Together with the tension from justifying Emily's behaviour is that associated with her neighbours in the new home she finds when her marriage collapses. This part of the story is as compelling as the beginning, when the damaged Emily finds solace with a new friend and her children.
Although I found the ending a little abrupt, on reflection perhaps this is the only way we can see Emily moving beyond the trial and its aftermath, the supposedly new beginning and the realisation that she still has a long journey back to her life before the rape.
Together with the tension from justifying Emily's behaviour is that associated with her neighbours in the new home she finds when her marriage collapses. This part of the story is as compelling as the beginning, when the damaged Emily finds solace with a new friend and her children.
Although I found the ending a little abrupt, on reflection perhaps this is the only way we can see Emily moving beyond the trial and its aftermath, the supposedly new beginning and the realisation that she still has a long journey back to her life before the rape.
April 14, 2024
Emily has just faced a long and devastating court battle. She claims to have been sexually assaulted by Andrew Tyler, her husband's best friend and also her best friend's current boyfriend, but the courts don't seem to believe her.
After her defeat in court, her life is falling apart. Everyone thinks she's a liar, her marriage ends, her best friend moves away, her parents are disappointed in her, she loses her job... Emily then decided to move and start a new life.
It is then that in her new neighbourhood, she meets Joanne and her two children, Molly and Luke. The two quickly create a strong bond of friendship, but there is something that bothers Emily. Instincts tell her that Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne and her children. But Joanne doesn't want to hear it because she's in love, so Emily decides to act on her own.
The story takes place in Cambridge and because I live in Cambridge this book was a unique experience as I was able to recognize every corner that was described in the story.
I have to admit that this was not only one of the best thrillers I've read this year, but also one of the best I've ever read in my life. I grabbed onto this story and didn't want to put the book down for anything. Furthermore, the story has a stomach-churning twist that I wasn't expecting at all, totally unpredictable.
I'm looking forward to reading more books by the author. Her writing is truly wonderful. A fluid narrative, without many dead spots as something is always happening, and believe me, all the smallest details that may seem unnecessary are the key to this surprising ending.
I recommend this book to all thriller fans, especially if you liked “The Girl on the Train”, you will love this book.
After her defeat in court, her life is falling apart. Everyone thinks she's a liar, her marriage ends, her best friend moves away, her parents are disappointed in her, she loses her job... Emily then decided to move and start a new life.
It is then that in her new neighbourhood, she meets Joanne and her two children, Molly and Luke. The two quickly create a strong bond of friendship, but there is something that bothers Emily. Instincts tell her that Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne and her children. But Joanne doesn't want to hear it because she's in love, so Emily decides to act on her own.
The story takes place in Cambridge and because I live in Cambridge this book was a unique experience as I was able to recognize every corner that was described in the story.
I have to admit that this was not only one of the best thrillers I've read this year, but also one of the best I've ever read in my life. I grabbed onto this story and didn't want to put the book down for anything. Furthermore, the story has a stomach-churning twist that I wasn't expecting at all, totally unpredictable.
I'm looking forward to reading more books by the author. Her writing is truly wonderful. A fluid narrative, without many dead spots as something is always happening, and believe me, all the smallest details that may seem unnecessary are the key to this surprising ending.
I recommend this book to all thriller fans, especially if you liked “The Girl on the Train”, you will love this book.
July 11, 2018
I found this story to be long winded and quite baffling- not as in the story line is confusing- as thats actually relatively simple- I just struggled to understand why Emily acts the way she acts in the book?
The book opens where Emily is in court- and for me this part of the book held very little relevance to the rest of the story? It made no actual sense to have this in the book- and now I'm finished with the book I'm still not sure if it was truth or lies?
I expect it was so we could perhaps take a glimpse into the type of character Emily was.....
After her life falls apart- Emily moves to a different town- determined to get a fresh start- moving into some flats where a young widow and her 2 children move in at the same time.
Emily forges a friendship with Joanne (the new neighbour) and her 2 young children- but when Joanne gets a new boyfriend Emily feels something isnt right and takes it upon herself to investigate Matt and see why he's dating Joanne.
i found Emilys behaviour very odd- she had literally nothing to go on just a gut feeling- and all this internal monologue of gut feelings and assumptions grated on me after a time.
The story picked up a little towards the end but momentum was soon lost and I still didn't understand the reasonings....
The book opens where Emily is in court- and for me this part of the book held very little relevance to the rest of the story? It made no actual sense to have this in the book- and now I'm finished with the book I'm still not sure if it was truth or lies?
I expect it was so we could perhaps take a glimpse into the type of character Emily was.....
After her life falls apart- Emily moves to a different town- determined to get a fresh start- moving into some flats where a young widow and her 2 children move in at the same time.
Emily forges a friendship with Joanne (the new neighbour) and her 2 young children- but when Joanne gets a new boyfriend Emily feels something isnt right and takes it upon herself to investigate Matt and see why he's dating Joanne.
i found Emilys behaviour very odd- she had literally nothing to go on just a gut feeling- and all this internal monologue of gut feelings and assumptions grated on me after a time.
The story picked up a little towards the end but momentum was soon lost and I still didn't understand the reasonings....
October 7, 2018
I received a digital ARC of this book from #Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I can always tell that a book is great when I'm not constantly flicking my eye down to the progress marker in the corner of my kindle. If I don't notice the percentage then the book is really keeping my interest. This certainly did that. From the first page I couldn't put it down. I had to keep reading, and I finished it in one day. I hadn't expected the ending to be what it was, but I loved it. Loose ends are tied up and everything is explained.
I will definitely read more by this author in the future. She creates characters that I really felt an emotional connection with and could sympathise with. I was totally invested and cared about them. I wanted the truth to come out, whatever that turned out to be. I was rooting for Emily throughout and that she was telling the truth. However the events that take place do make you question that.
A great story that I couldn't put down, with a great ending.
I can always tell that a book is great when I'm not constantly flicking my eye down to the progress marker in the corner of my kindle. If I don't notice the percentage then the book is really keeping my interest. This certainly did that. From the first page I couldn't put it down. I had to keep reading, and I finished it in one day. I hadn't expected the ending to be what it was, but I loved it. Loose ends are tied up and everything is explained.
I will definitely read more by this author in the future. She creates characters that I really felt an emotional connection with and could sympathise with. I was totally invested and cared about them. I wanted the truth to come out, whatever that turned out to be. I was rooting for Emily throughout and that she was telling the truth. However the events that take place do make you question that.
A great story that I couldn't put down, with a great ending.
May 31, 2020
I really did not like this book. I didn't like the characters, the huge plot holes, the actual story or the big reveal, which was very flat. Woman accuses husband's best friend of rape, no one believes her (why not?) so when he's acquitted she moves away a bit. Makes a new friend where she's moved to, practically falls in love with this woman, becomes obsessed with her and her children, meets new friend's boyfriend, decides he's up to no good...None of it makes a whole lot of sense to be honest. Her friend turns out to be the baddy, kills the boyfriend on their wedding day and pins it on Emily (our heroine).
I only finished the book to see if it gets better at the end. A little bit I suppose, but really it wasn't worth it. Like wading through treacle.
I only finished the book to see if it gets better at the end. A little bit I suppose, but really it wasn't worth it. Like wading through treacle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this advanced reader copy, which is no longer an advanced copy.
I read this on the treadmill, an hour each time after letting it sit and stew on my to be read shelf. This has the makings of a fantastic thriller, but it just didn’t do it for me, even after the second chance I gave it after giving up the first time. With the ending, I felt severely underwhelmed, and found myself questioning if I had missed things. But overall, it wasn’t my cup of tea and maybe if a book doesn’t pull me in the first time, it doesn’t always need a second chance.
I read this on the treadmill, an hour each time after letting it sit and stew on my to be read shelf. This has the makings of a fantastic thriller, but it just didn’t do it for me, even after the second chance I gave it after giving up the first time. With the ending, I felt severely underwhelmed, and found myself questioning if I had missed things. But overall, it wasn’t my cup of tea and maybe if a book doesn’t pull me in the first time, it doesn’t always need a second chance.
June 26, 2018
Emily's life is a mess after she accuses her husband's best friend of rape, and as a reader you are constantly doubting her story... Did Tyler rape her indeed? Then there is the trial and the aftermath leaving her shattered, things will never be the same.
Who is sending her the hatemail? And why is she clutching at that one new friend she made after moving?
Personally, I was a bit annoyed with her behavior, perhaps that is why I didn't see that plot coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
Who is sending her the hatemail? And why is she clutching at that one new friend she made after moving?
Personally, I was a bit annoyed with her behavior, perhaps that is why I didn't see that plot coming.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.
June 22, 2018
I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoy this one. It has all the usual conventions and clichés of the genre, but it’s very entertaining and very satisfying. It is a very triggering topic – a woman who attempts to prosecute her rapist is blamed and shunned– but the payoff feels satisfying, and it sheds light on some very ugly sides of truth. I stayed up all night to finish it- I couldn’t put it down.
I really enjoy this one. It has all the usual conventions and clichés of the genre, but it’s very entertaining and very satisfying. It is a very triggering topic – a woman who attempts to prosecute her rapist is blamed and shunned– but the payoff feels satisfying, and it sheds light on some very ugly sides of truth. I stayed up all night to finish it- I couldn’t put it down.
January 18, 2020
I felt this book was trying to be in the same category as gone girl and girl on a train (or whatever that book was) but wasn’t as good. The twist at the end was the best part and I was a little bit mad that they used a rape case where the victim wasn’t believed even though that happens a lot it was used as a reason we shouldn’t trust the narrative. They could have done it in a different way. It wasn’t terrible but I’ve read better book of a similar genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2018
I Did It for Us
I gave this book five stars because it kept me guessing until the last couple of chapters. Twists and turns throughout the story kept me changing my mind who really was the villain, and in the end I was still shocked. A very well written book and a very clever outcome.
I gave this book five stars because it kept me guessing until the last couple of chapters. Twists and turns throughout the story kept me changing my mind who really was the villain, and in the end I was still shocked. A very well written book and a very clever outcome.
May 29, 2018
Tense
I enjoyed this book, Emily the main character was well written and I must say I really felt for her. I sympathized with her and was on her side and then I changed my mind then changed it back. My only negative is the ending although it wasn't bad I wanted more and I think this book would have been better if it had an epilogue maybe a year later.
I enjoyed this book, Emily the main character was well written and I must say I really felt for her. I sympathized with her and was on her side and then I changed my mind then changed it back. My only negative is the ending although it wasn't bad I wanted more and I think this book would have been better if it had an epilogue maybe a year later.
July 9, 2018
Gripping book, with lots of twists and turns throughout, which kept me turning the pages long after I should have been asleep!
The ending seemed rushed in comparison to the rest of the book, but I am certainly looking forward to reading more from Alison Bruce.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book.
The ending seemed rushed in comparison to the rest of the book, but I am certainly looking forward to reading more from Alison Bruce.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book.
January 3, 2019
1.5-2/5.
A disappointing read that felt disjointed, rushed in parts and agonisingly slow in others, and that didn't wrap up important parts of the plot.
A disappointing read that felt disjointed, rushed in parts and agonisingly slow in others, and that didn't wrap up important parts of the plot.
January 3, 2019
An easy 5 stars from me!
I Did It For Us is a standalone psychological thriller and I raced through the pages eager to find out what happened next. I bought my copy of this book from Toppings book shop in Ely and it has waited patiently for me to read it; I adored the Cambridge Blue series by Alison Bruce and I didn't want to rush straight into reading it - partly in the manner of saving a particularly pleasing cake for a later date and partly because I so loved the Goodhew series.
Well, even without Goodhew, I Did It For Us is a huge hit with me. Emily, our main character, doesn't walk the easiest of paths and life certainly doesn't shy away from dealing her some rough hands, but is she a victim or is she the cause? Alison Bruce demonstrates clearly her mastery of the craft here with the impressive level of skill which must have been involved in creating this twisty tale.
The only similarity to the Goodhew books was the way the story wove its way around Cambridge, I loved reading place names and locations that I could easily picture in my head.
No spoilers from me, as ever, but suffice it to say this clever, psychological thriller will keep you guessing!
Synopsis: "From the first time I saw them together I knew it felt wrong. I didn't like the way he touched her or the self-conscious way he played with Molly and Luke. Joanne saw none of it of course. So I did it to prove to her that she was wrong. I did it for us."
Emily's instincts tell her that best friend Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne. Fears for Joanne's children. But Joanne won't listen because she's in love. So Emily watches, and waits . . . and then she makes a choice.
But Emily has a past, and secrets too. And is she really as good a friend to Joanne as she claims?
I Did It For Us is a standalone psychological thriller and I raced through the pages eager to find out what happened next. I bought my copy of this book from Toppings book shop in Ely and it has waited patiently for me to read it; I adored the Cambridge Blue series by Alison Bruce and I didn't want to rush straight into reading it - partly in the manner of saving a particularly pleasing cake for a later date and partly because I so loved the Goodhew series.
Well, even without Goodhew, I Did It For Us is a huge hit with me. Emily, our main character, doesn't walk the easiest of paths and life certainly doesn't shy away from dealing her some rough hands, but is she a victim or is she the cause? Alison Bruce demonstrates clearly her mastery of the craft here with the impressive level of skill which must have been involved in creating this twisty tale.
The only similarity to the Goodhew books was the way the story wove its way around Cambridge, I loved reading place names and locations that I could easily picture in my head.
No spoilers from me, as ever, but suffice it to say this clever, psychological thriller will keep you guessing!
Synopsis: "From the first time I saw them together I knew it felt wrong. I didn't like the way he touched her or the self-conscious way he played with Molly and Luke. Joanne saw none of it of course. So I did it to prove to her that she was wrong. I did it for us."
Emily's instincts tell her that best friend Joanne's new boyfriend is bad news. Emily fears for Joanne. Fears for Joanne's children. But Joanne won't listen because she's in love. So Emily watches, and waits . . . and then she makes a choice.
But Emily has a past, and secrets too. And is she really as good a friend to Joanne as she claims?
June 25, 2023
I Did It For Us by Alison Bruce
Triggered by events beyond her control Emily’s life has been changed,. In a short space of time the certainty and the structure of her existence, as she knew it suffers devastating changes. She decides to start anew and in an attempt to get her life back on track moves to Wicken, a village some distance from her previous home. There Emily rents a flat in a converted mansion, hoping to be able to rebuild her life away from Cambridge and her previous life.
A close friendship with a new neighbour, Joanne and her two young children helps Emily to start moving on. The only dark cloud is Joanne’s relationship with Matt, a relationship that causes Emily great concern for her new friend Joanne and Joanne’s children.
The tension builds as we turn the pages and race towards the unexpected ending.
The book is well written the descriptions and emotions expressed are exceptionally crafted. While we read we inhabit Emily’s, mind seeing the world through her eyes, sharing her thoughts and feeling her tension.
I am a great fan of Alison Bruce and have enjoyed everything I have read of hers, I Did it For Us is no exception, it is a remarkably good book.
October 1, 2021
Spoilers alert ❌❌
The book has a very strong character in my opinion i.e. Emily in her own way. But the storyline shows her a bit cringy woman. What i don't understand is that why leaving stories behing like what happened after Emily found out about Jess and the letters, why would she keeps shut while Jess has messed up her case against Andy? Emily should react to it.
Secondly , i don't get to the part where Emily cracks out about the real imposter is Joanne not Matt. But somehow the secret reveals.
On an over view the book is good, the story is good but a bit boring in the middle . The real flavours of the story you will find in the beggining where all the case senario was going on and in the end where all the engagment and wedding things were going on.
I really hope that Matt and Emily should end up together when she found out about Joanne. But that again didn't happened. But yes the ending is so powerfull and with a lot of turn of events. It was really suspensfull till the end. Really loved the work but do wish the writing could be a little more easy in reading.
Overall a very good book to read.
The book has a very strong character in my opinion i.e. Emily in her own way. But the storyline shows her a bit cringy woman. What i don't understand is that why leaving stories behing like what happened after Emily found out about Jess and the letters, why would she keeps shut while Jess has messed up her case against Andy? Emily should react to it.
Secondly , i don't get to the part where Emily cracks out about the real imposter is Joanne not Matt. But somehow the secret reveals.
On an over view the book is good, the story is good but a bit boring in the middle . The real flavours of the story you will find in the beggining where all the case senario was going on and in the end where all the engagment and wedding things were going on.
I really hope that Matt and Emily should end up together when she found out about Joanne. But that again didn't happened. But yes the ending is so powerfull and with a lot of turn of events. It was really suspensfull till the end. Really loved the work but do wish the writing could be a little more easy in reading.
Overall a very good book to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 24, 2018Three and a half star rating.
After what she's just been through Emily trusts very few people and she certainly doesn't trust Joanne's new boyfriend. Emily starts off as a sympathy needing character but then I lost any empathy for her as she turns into a bit of a busybody, always spying on everyone else. Why does she make the wrong decisions, say the wrong things and why is she so slow to catch on? A bit slow in parts and very much a page turner in others. It would make a great last minute present for someone! I was given this ARC by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
After what she's just been through Emily trusts very few people and she certainly doesn't trust Joanne's new boyfriend. Emily starts off as a sympathy needing character but then I lost any empathy for her as she turns into a bit of a busybody, always spying on everyone else. Why does she make the wrong decisions, say the wrong things and why is she so slow to catch on? A bit slow in parts and very much a page turner in others. It would make a great last minute present for someone! I was given this ARC by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2021
What an excellent and easy read
When Emily accuses her husbands best friend of rape little does she know of the fallout it will cause.
She has to face the consequences of her decision to go ahead with the trial and the fact that no one believes her.
As she starts to piece her life back together her meeting with her new neighbour Joanne brings the same feelings back to her again. Before saying anything she tries to prove that her feelings are correct.
A twist in the tail brings clarity to Emily.
When Emily accuses her husbands best friend of rape little does she know of the fallout it will cause.
She has to face the consequences of her decision to go ahead with the trial and the fact that no one believes her.
As she starts to piece her life back together her meeting with her new neighbour Joanne brings the same feelings back to her again. Before saying anything she tries to prove that her feelings are correct.
A twist in the tail brings clarity to Emily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2025
As I was getting towards the end, I remember thinking that I was enjoying the book but finding the storyline implausible. Then came the big twist, which blew me away … and which, on reflection, makes the whole thing very plausible. So a great book, even though the central character does things (creepy, needy ...) which at times make her distinctly unlikeable. My only criticism is that we are left not knowing what really happened in the first part of the book when she claims she was raped by one of her husband’s friends. One way or another, I'd have liked to know the truth.
March 27, 2025
This was a book with two stories contained within it, and it was confusing to me what one had to do with the other. A bit of a drudge to plough through this book, but intriguing enough of the main characters that I continued, hoping it would all dovetail together by the end of the book.
However, I was disappointed with the ending because there was no hints during the story that that was where we would end up, and with a thriller I think the Author should feed you clues so you can possibly work out the ending for yourself, even if it still comes as a shock, which this book did not.
Nothing wrong with the writing, just the structure of the book and the dreariness of the story was what let it down in my opinion.
However, I was disappointed with the ending because there was no hints during the story that that was where we would end up, and with a thriller I think the Author should feed you clues so you can possibly work out the ending for yourself, even if it still comes as a shock, which this book did not.
Nothing wrong with the writing, just the structure of the book and the dreariness of the story was what let it down in my opinion.
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