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Hidden From View
Tommy has a warped rationale for his despicable behaviour towards women. He was born without a conscience and remorse is an alien concept. Will he ever find out the truth about the past that shaped who he really is?Cassie refuses to live up to the expectations of her family, instead choosing to have fun with her flat mates and go home with various deviant men.Her best friend, Lisette, on the other hand, just wants a quiet predictable life with her steady boyfriend Jarred. But can Lisette find a way to fix their mediocre love life?Police Sergeant Lynn Gough knows exactly what she wants – and that’s her childhood crush Pete. The only thing getting in the way is his fiancée, Tamika. Lynn knows about Tamika’s dirty secrets however, and will stop at nothing to get rid of her.Rita wants children, but her husband Lewis is not so sure. Rita’s traumatic childhood continues to impact her relationships as an adult. While she battles with her inner demons, Lewis finds other ways of occupying his time. Will Rita learn to address the past to save her future?Explore how sex, lies and love impact our complex web of relationships, and discover how deeply our choices can impact others.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2019
3 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Gill D. Anderson
5 books88 followersGill was born in Edinburgh, Scotland and immigrated to Adelaide, South Australia in 2004 with her husband and two daughters. Gill studied at Flinders University in South Australia and has a double degree in Social Work and Social Planning. Gill currently works as a Social Worker for the state government.
DISCLAIMER -Trigger warning
Gill would like to warn readers about the themes of trauma, violence , abuse and sexual deviance which are weaved throughout her debut novel Hidden From View.
Her second novel The Chosen Seven depicts a siege situation in a city restaurant and whereby the characters are forced to have a life review and reconsider what matters in life while being held hostage by a psychopath.
Melita is a story about a mother and daughter who find themselves entangled in a strained and painful relationship which leads to their estrangement. It taps into the psychology of each character allowing the reader to feel their pain from both points of view.
Primed for Vengeance is about a troubled young man who seeks revenge on those he feels have wronged him during his childhood. A chilling psychological thriller that will leave you thinking long after you finish the book.
Gill's strength is creating strong believable, colourful characters that intrigue the reader and draws them in.
Gill's novels tend to have confronting themes that tap into the psychology of human behaviour (based on their trauma backgrounds) and touches on the impact that the character's choices have on others.
DISCLAIMER -Trigger warning
Gill would like to warn readers about the themes of trauma, violence , abuse and sexual deviance which are weaved throughout her debut novel Hidden From View.
Her second novel The Chosen Seven depicts a siege situation in a city restaurant and whereby the characters are forced to have a life review and reconsider what matters in life while being held hostage by a psychopath.
Melita is a story about a mother and daughter who find themselves entangled in a strained and painful relationship which leads to their estrangement. It taps into the psychology of each character allowing the reader to feel their pain from both points of view.
Primed for Vengeance is about a troubled young man who seeks revenge on those he feels have wronged him during his childhood. A chilling psychological thriller that will leave you thinking long after you finish the book.
Gill's strength is creating strong believable, colourful characters that intrigue the reader and draws them in.
Gill's novels tend to have confronting themes that tap into the psychology of human behaviour (based on their trauma backgrounds) and touches on the impact that the character's choices have on others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
January 5, 2020
Hidden from View is a thought provoking novel that deals with complex and compelling characters and their issues relating to traumatic events from the past. This story effortlessly weaves in and out of different characters’ lives in a way that is intriguing and easy to follow. The story also vacillates between different points in time and gives the reader rich details that help the reader understand not only the characters but their pathology. Specifically, the author has a keen awareness and insight into the minds of dark, sadistic, and pathological characters, and she paints an intricate and compelling history for her characters. As mentioned previously, the characters are masterfully developed, and readers feel like they’re in their minds.
The story involves painful and disheartening moments that the characters have to endure. I was intrigued with the different but interrelated stories within the story, and the author’s unique style of writing keeps one anxiously turning the pages to see what will happen next. This book had many amazing elements from thrilling to sexy that will keep one engaged until the very end. A side note, the author’s message to the other “sisters” who were victims of assault serves as a disclaimer about some of the content of the book but also as a reminder to the reader “to keep fighting the fight.” I love that the author is aware of the sensitive topics discussed throughout the book, and she has a heart for wanting to help unite victims and helping them become stronger together.
The story involves painful and disheartening moments that the characters have to endure. I was intrigued with the different but interrelated stories within the story, and the author’s unique style of writing keeps one anxiously turning the pages to see what will happen next. This book had many amazing elements from thrilling to sexy that will keep one engaged until the very end. A side note, the author’s message to the other “sisters” who were victims of assault serves as a disclaimer about some of the content of the book but also as a reminder to the reader “to keep fighting the fight.” I love that the author is aware of the sensitive topics discussed throughout the book, and she has a heart for wanting to help unite victims and helping them become stronger together.
January 13, 2020
Brilliant read, so gripping from start to finish. Took a bit to get into it jumping from different characters but once I got into it it just took me a couple of days to read it as I couldn’t put it down.
October 29, 2022
Powerful book,
Honestly I had tears through it, even though I’m not exactly sure why,
I don’t know what to say, I’ll try to think of a bigger review soon,
Honestly I had tears through it, even though I’m not exactly sure why,
I don’t know what to say, I’ll try to think of a bigger review soon,
December 23, 2019
I totally loved this book and I found all the characters were made so relatable by the author.
This honestly left me feeling some joy as the ending of the book shows some Karma well deserved and as a survivor of sexual abuse it felt en powering to read this ending as well as invigorating.
I have now read Gill Andersons second book and her writing is nothing short of total brilliance.
This honestly left me feeling some joy as the ending of the book shows some Karma well deserved and as a survivor of sexual abuse it felt en powering to read this ending as well as invigorating.
I have now read Gill Andersons second book and her writing is nothing short of total brilliance.
June 1, 2019
What a great debut novel! Gripping, clever and hard to put down. Can’t wait for Gills next book.
May 31, 2019
Wow what a debut! I was gripped from the start! Gill manages to bring alive 2 very different cities (both of which I know well) and introduces some very interesting characters that she manages to weave into an emotional, sometimes distressing, sometimes laugh out loud funny story that tackles some disturbing Issues. She doesn’t leave much to the imagination and her descriptive writing style can leave you blushing and outraged at the turn of a page! Some will say this is not for everyone, I disagree, we should all read this book, it highlights the horrors of domestic and sexual abuse but is also a fascinating insight into relationships and social behaviour - bring on the next book.
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August 11, 2025What a .... different story. Told in an interesting way, like a narrator is telling the story, both timelines of past and present weave a complex web between the many characters. It shows how each person's choices can impact others even years later.
At times heartbreaking, shocking and bitter-sweet this book will have you desperately wanting justice and peace for the wronged and suffering.
There were a few twists I did not see coming. But I must say, this book is not for the faint hearted, please check the TWs.
I was given a copy of this book by the lovely author herself in exchange for a review. Thank you so much 😊
At times heartbreaking, shocking and bitter-sweet this book will have you desperately wanting justice and peace for the wronged and suffering.
There were a few twists I did not see coming. But I must say, this book is not for the faint hearted, please check the TWs.
I was given a copy of this book by the lovely author herself in exchange for a review. Thank you so much 😊
April 20, 2019
Hidden from View is a bold new novel, empowering women of all ages to sit comfortably with their sexuality, no matter what their personal preferences might be. This is cleverly done against a backdrop of strong characters and an intriguing storyline. Some of those are heartbreakingly tragic, some are funny and some bizarre, but all will have you wanting to read on. There are many threads within the story all of which get beautifully woven together at the end. The characters and their experiences will linger in your mind, well after the last page has been turned.
April 30, 2019
It took me a bit to get into with the switching between characters but I felt the author truly captured the characters essences and very cleverly intertwined their lives creating a very interesting read whilst exploring some difficult themes. A well written, great debut novel Gill you should be very proud!
November 6, 2019
Loved this book. Had me interested right from start to finish. Had a real feel for all the characters as they were so well described, I had a picture of them in my head. This book is so many different things but for me I thought it was very " real life ". Gill has a real talent and can't wait to read more of her work. Well done young lady.
August 22, 2021
This is a wonderful first book from Gill, Loved it from start to finish, easy to follow the characters and I went through a great deal of emotions reading it. Was very pleased with the ending as it tied the story all together. Will defiantly be reading Gill's three others and could not recommend this one more highly. Well done Gill.
May 24, 2019
Great novel with an engaging set of characters. Loved the interconnected set of character storylines and the unexpected twist. Great summer read. Looking forward to the next novel from Gill D Anderson.
April 30, 2019
A book you can’t put down once you start. Saucy and graphic but hooks you in. A great and entertaining read. Author has linked characters together in a meaningful way.
May 29, 2019
Just finished reading Gill's debut novel. Wow, could not put this down! Gripping from the start to the end! Loved the twist of all the characters - very cleverly written. Would highly recommend!
October 31, 2022
Hidden From View is based around 4 main characters all dealing with some sort of personal issue. It explores how people's lives can change when they intertwine with others and use factors like lies and cheating. It shows the domino effect not only those who are involved but other people outside the relationship.
The point of view for this story is rather unique as it’s told from a narrator's voice over point of view both in the present and in the past.
Gill created her characters brilliantly, I think the way they have been portrayed was made for the reader to love them or dislike them. You want a HEA for some and some to just receive a double dose of karma.
Parts of this book are quite confronting but I think it works best in this book considering the content matter. I do highly suggest looking at the trigger warnings first before reading this book if you do have any.
Thank you Gill D Anderson for the copy of Hidden from View for reviewing purposes.
The point of view for this story is rather unique as it’s told from a narrator's voice over point of view both in the present and in the past.
Gill created her characters brilliantly, I think the way they have been portrayed was made for the reader to love them or dislike them. You want a HEA for some and some to just receive a double dose of karma.
Parts of this book are quite confronting but I think it works best in this book considering the content matter. I do highly suggest looking at the trigger warnings first before reading this book if you do have any.
Thank you Gill D Anderson for the copy of Hidden from View for reviewing purposes.
January 17, 2020
A cleverly written book with some confronting topics raised as the story walks through the lives of the characters. (As a fellow South Aussie) the locations used throughout the book add a further sense of reality. As the book ends, tying all the loose ends up, you find yourself thinking about the characters and their lives long after turning the final page. A thought provoking read!
April 27, 2022
Binge read all 4 of Gills books, fantastic insights into the seedy side of Adelaide and the depravity behind closed doors.
December 14, 2023
Enthralling could not put it down. Amazing twists and turns and suspense. If you like Irvine Welsh, Charles Bukowski and Hunter S Thompson and the like you'll love Hidden From View.
February 27, 2021
What a page turner! I'm going to go out there and say that this book isn't for the easily offended but if you want to explore some hard-hitting societal issues through fiction, then this is for you. Gill has done an amazing job at bringing some confronting and very real issues to the forefront of her writing. Kudos for having the courage to publish something that is so graphic, frightening, upsetting at times, humorous at times, but most importantly - real. This is the second book I've read from Gill and she once again has demonstrated a superb ability at intertwining characters lives and bringing multiple stories together. The vast web of characters and how they all connect was well thought out and wonderfully executed. A fantastic debut novel.
June 30, 2019
A truly fantastic and intriguing read! Enjoyed every bit of it. Can’t wait for the authors next book to come out! It will be well worth the wait.
January 15, 2020
Brilliant novel from start to finish. Took me a while to pick it up due to being so busy, but highly recommended. I’ve been staying up late until I finished it. Captured me from start to finish. Well written, funny at times, very descriptive and lots of promiscuous scenes. Sad at times and crazy how some people live their life and perceive it as normal.
Looking forward to reading the next one.
Looking forward to reading the next one.
October 2, 2019
I absolutely love Gill's writing style. The moment you start this book you instantly feel connected to her characters, within the first pages I was hooked. The more I read I felt like I really knew them, and she really captures real world life issues in a fun captivating read. I definitely recommend this book, great read.
November 10, 2021
Hidden from View certainly was a page turner for me, I started it one evening and finished it in the morning, it kept me captivated.
A very saucy, bordering on soft porn read. It wasn’t everyone’s “cup of tea” in our book club, perhaps enlightening for some. We agreed for a debut novel it was courageous in that it covered so many sensitive subjects.
I wouldn’t necessarily recommend to it my police officer friends as it really doesn’t show them in good light, which makes me wonder where did the author gain her insight into these personalities.
Well done Gillian
A very saucy, bordering on soft porn read. It wasn’t everyone’s “cup of tea” in our book club, perhaps enlightening for some. We agreed for a debut novel it was courageous in that it covered so many sensitive subjects.
I wouldn’t necessarily recommend to it my police officer friends as it really doesn’t show them in good light, which makes me wonder where did the author gain her insight into these personalities.
Well done Gillian
August 12, 2022
A complex web of sex, lies and human relationships.
Suffering abuse at the hands of her uncle Tommy throughout her childhood, Rita continues to be scarred by her traumatic past. Meanwhile, her husband Lewis’ affair with his work colleague Tamika is building in intensity, something his Sergeant Lynn has her own reasons to exploit.
Lewis’ mother Suzanne makes it her mission to meddle in the lives of her children, both Lewis and his sister Cassie struggling with her interference. Cassie values her independence, living her life on her terms alongside her close group of friends, who each have their own struggles to contend with.
As the sins of the past impact the present, justice may be about to catch up with some, while others may finally find an escape from the shackles of their pain.
‘Hidden from View’ is Gill D. Anderson’s debut novel, a tale of drama, trauma and deviance set primarily in South Australia. This is the third of Gill's books I’ve read and, though it’s a close call between the three, it may just be my favourite so far. With elements of family saga, psychological suspense, erotica and police procedural moulded within the character-driven plot, it delves into themes of abuse and misogyny, taboos and a touch of voodoo.
The story is narrated through the perspectives of the multiple characters, featuring many anecdotes and inner monologues which give each of their tales an authentic feel, so much so that it wouldn’t surprise me if some were inspired by real events (if indeed they are purely fictional, it is testament to Gill’s skill in her character creation). More than once the structure of the novel reminded me of films like ‘Magnolia’, a multi-faceted approach to storytelling with human drama and emotion at its centre, also with some comical elements to balance the novel’s darker moments.
The antagonists often prove themselves to be particularly vile – there are references to child abuse, sexual violence and animal cruelty that some readers may find triggering or simply more than they are comfortable with. Nevertheless, these subjects are dealt with delicately and with a determination that we must strive for change. Perhaps, one day, we will finally achieve it.
Fast-paced and engrossing, ‘Hidden from View’ is a psychological portrait in shades of dark and light that explores the far-reaching consequences of our actions.
Suffering abuse at the hands of her uncle Tommy throughout her childhood, Rita continues to be scarred by her traumatic past. Meanwhile, her husband Lewis’ affair with his work colleague Tamika is building in intensity, something his Sergeant Lynn has her own reasons to exploit.
Lewis’ mother Suzanne makes it her mission to meddle in the lives of her children, both Lewis and his sister Cassie struggling with her interference. Cassie values her independence, living her life on her terms alongside her close group of friends, who each have their own struggles to contend with.
As the sins of the past impact the present, justice may be about to catch up with some, while others may finally find an escape from the shackles of their pain.
‘Hidden from View’ is Gill D. Anderson’s debut novel, a tale of drama, trauma and deviance set primarily in South Australia. This is the third of Gill's books I’ve read and, though it’s a close call between the three, it may just be my favourite so far. With elements of family saga, psychological suspense, erotica and police procedural moulded within the character-driven plot, it delves into themes of abuse and misogyny, taboos and a touch of voodoo.
The story is narrated through the perspectives of the multiple characters, featuring many anecdotes and inner monologues which give each of their tales an authentic feel, so much so that it wouldn’t surprise me if some were inspired by real events (if indeed they are purely fictional, it is testament to Gill’s skill in her character creation). More than once the structure of the novel reminded me of films like ‘Magnolia’, a multi-faceted approach to storytelling with human drama and emotion at its centre, also with some comical elements to balance the novel’s darker moments.
The antagonists often prove themselves to be particularly vile – there are references to child abuse, sexual violence and animal cruelty that some readers may find triggering or simply more than they are comfortable with. Nevertheless, these subjects are dealt with delicately and with a determination that we must strive for change. Perhaps, one day, we will finally achieve it.
Fast-paced and engrossing, ‘Hidden from View’ is a psychological portrait in shades of dark and light that explores the far-reaching consequences of our actions.
September 5, 2024
Riveting, an excellent read!
Hidden from View offers an insightful look into the realm of developmental trauma through the perspectives of its intertwined characters. Each narrative delves into the harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse, casting a stark light on its far-reaching consequences. By presenting the story from various perspectives, the author provides a comprehensive picture of how such trauma can impact relationships—be they romantic, familial, or social. The author illustrates the pervasive and often insidious nature of abuse, making the reader acutely aware of its impact on both individuals, and their communities.
Despite the heavy themes, the book manages to blend raunchy and pulp fiction elements with a gripping, relatable narrative. This combination creates a unique reading experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking. This book is incredibly hard to put down. The novel spans several decades, weaving through social issues and personal stories. It captures the intergenerational implications of trauma and the societal patterns that perpetuate it, making it a relevant read and a crusade for change.
Hidden from View offers an insightful look into the realm of developmental trauma through the perspectives of its intertwined characters. Each narrative delves into the harrowing experiences of childhood sexual abuse, casting a stark light on its far-reaching consequences. By presenting the story from various perspectives, the author provides a comprehensive picture of how such trauma can impact relationships—be they romantic, familial, or social. The author illustrates the pervasive and often insidious nature of abuse, making the reader acutely aware of its impact on both individuals, and their communities.
Despite the heavy themes, the book manages to blend raunchy and pulp fiction elements with a gripping, relatable narrative. This combination creates a unique reading experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking. This book is incredibly hard to put down. The novel spans several decades, weaving through social issues and personal stories. It captures the intergenerational implications of trauma and the societal patterns that perpetuate it, making it a relevant read and a crusade for change.
May 13, 2019
Well done on your first book I loved it, couldn't leave it down! Hoping to read books more from this Author. 😁
May 8, 2019
Such a cleverly written book that intertwined the characters in a meaningful way. It provides a fascinating insight into the seedier side of Adelaide with a particular focus on child protection and criminal matters. Well done!
October 16, 2019
Hidden from View is a very raw and honest read. I loved the fact that Gill did not hold back with her shocking yet truthful descriptions of sexual exploration, deviancy and abuse. What an amazing read; I read Hidden from View in 2 days and could not put it down. You are very brave to write about such confronting subjects and it pleases me no end that you did not ‘hold back’. Great achievement Gill; keep writing and I will keep reading.
May 4, 2019
Fantastic debut novel
Highly recommend this book . What a fantastic debut novel .. perfect holiday read
Engaging characters and although very gritty and thought provoking at times a well written story connecting all the characters experiences and behaviours
Fabulous Gill hope there's more to come
Highly recommend this book . What a fantastic debut novel .. perfect holiday read
Engaging characters and although very gritty and thought provoking at times a well written story connecting all the characters experiences and behaviours
Fabulous Gill hope there's more to come
January 4, 2021
Cleverly entwined characters and thought provoking content.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews