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The Pupil
One moment of carelessness. Four shattered lives.
Psychological suspense that explores a labyrinth of lies, manipulation and revenge. Perfect for fans of Louise Jenson and Katerina Diamond.
Psychological suspense that explores a labyrinth of lies, manipulation and revenge. Perfect for fans of Louise Jenson and Katerina Diamond.
Literary agent Viola Matthews is sure she's met Katherine Baxter before. So when her husband and bestselling novelist Samuel Morton introduces Viola to the quiet, unassuming woman he has offered to mentor, she knows their paths have crossed before. The question is where?
As their worlds collide and the bond between Samuel and Katherine deepens, Viola realises she must take control.
If Viola is right, then Katherine needs to pay for something that happened twelve years ago.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2018
561 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
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August 21, 2018
EXCERPT: Viola's eyes landed on the woman hiding at the back of the group, some of her face obscured by the person standing in front of her. Taller than any of the other women in the photograph, long dark hair falling in waves around a pleasant face, but most strikingly, those huge eyes like a kewpie doll. Difficult to forget. She was smiling thinly at the camera, but her eyes were looking across at Sam. The credits below had her listed as Katherine Baxter.
I know you as someone else. Don't I?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: One moment of carelessness. Four shattered lives.
Psychological suspense that explores a labyrinth of lies, manipulation and revenge. Perfect for fans of Louise Jenson and Katerina Diamond.
Literary agent Viola Matthews is sure she's met Katherine Baxter before. So when her husband and bestselling novelist Samuel Morton introduces Viola to the quiet, unassuming woman he has offered to mentor, she knows their paths have crossed before. The question is where?
As their worlds collide and the bond between Samuel and Katherine deepens, Viola realises she must take control.
If Viola is right, then Katherine needs to pay for something that happened twelve years ago.
MY THOUGHTS: This book touched me on several levels - with the author's incredibly accurate insight into Katherine's desire to write being subjugated by, not only her own fears, but the reactions of those closest to her; her accurate description of Katherine's husband’s control over her being presented as solicitous concern; the machinations of friendship.
All of these things were incredibly well done. But where this book should have zinged and sizzled, in places it merely limped along. There was, perhaps, far too much of Katherine's background, most of it irrelevant, and far too little about the accident that precipitated all that was to come. The ending may have been more believable had we had more insight into both Katherine's, and Sam and Viola's story as it happened, rather than just hearing it in retrospect.
I enjoyed The Pupil, but not as much as I could have. The premise is great, the author has a wonderful way with words, and with a little reworking, this could be the 'heart-stopping psychological thriller' read it claims to be. 😊😊😊.5
THE AUTHOR: Dawn Goodwin. Dawn's career has spanned PR, advertising and publishing. Now, she loves to write about the personalities hiding behind the masks, whether beautiful or ugly. Married, she lives in London with her two daughters and a British bulldog called Geoffrey.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Pupil by Dawn Goodwin for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
I know you as someone else. Don't I?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: One moment of carelessness. Four shattered lives.
Psychological suspense that explores a labyrinth of lies, manipulation and revenge. Perfect for fans of Louise Jenson and Katerina Diamond.
Literary agent Viola Matthews is sure she's met Katherine Baxter before. So when her husband and bestselling novelist Samuel Morton introduces Viola to the quiet, unassuming woman he has offered to mentor, she knows their paths have crossed before. The question is where?
As their worlds collide and the bond between Samuel and Katherine deepens, Viola realises she must take control.
If Viola is right, then Katherine needs to pay for something that happened twelve years ago.
MY THOUGHTS: This book touched me on several levels - with the author's incredibly accurate insight into Katherine's desire to write being subjugated by, not only her own fears, but the reactions of those closest to her; her accurate description of Katherine's husband’s control over her being presented as solicitous concern; the machinations of friendship.
All of these things were incredibly well done. But where this book should have zinged and sizzled, in places it merely limped along. There was, perhaps, far too much of Katherine's background, most of it irrelevant, and far too little about the accident that precipitated all that was to come. The ending may have been more believable had we had more insight into both Katherine's, and Sam and Viola's story as it happened, rather than just hearing it in retrospect.
I enjoyed The Pupil, but not as much as I could have. The premise is great, the author has a wonderful way with words, and with a little reworking, this could be the 'heart-stopping psychological thriller' read it claims to be. 😊😊😊.5
THE AUTHOR: Dawn Goodwin. Dawn's career has spanned PR, advertising and publishing. Now, she loves to write about the personalities hiding behind the masks, whether beautiful or ugly. Married, she lives in London with her two daughters and a British bulldog called Geoffrey.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria Books via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Pupil by Dawn Goodwin for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
June 27, 2018
The Pupil by Dawn Goodwin is a psychological thriller that I read in one day.
Katherine who is stuck at home looking after her two children, dreams of being an author. Her husband Paul does not support her dream. Katherine enrols in a writing course and meets Sam a well known author. Sam decides to help Katherine with her manuscript. While working together she meets Sam's wife Viola who is sure that she knows Katherine from before.
I enjoyed this book although I did not like Katherine and found her to be selfish and dismissive of other people's feelings.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Aria For my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Katherine who is stuck at home looking after her two children, dreams of being an author. Her husband Paul does not support her dream. Katherine enrols in a writing course and meets Sam a well known author. Sam decides to help Katherine with her manuscript. While working together she meets Sam's wife Viola who is sure that she knows Katherine from before.
I enjoyed this book although I did not like Katherine and found her to be selfish and dismissive of other people's feelings.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Aria For my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2018
4.5
There’s often more going on behind closed doors than we think.
It seems Katherine has everything she needs. A house in the suburbs, a loving husband and two adoring children. She is the ideal house-wife. She cleans, cooks, attends to the children and cleans some more. But underneath it all Katherine feels trapped and suffocated. Her husband dictates her every move. What to cook, what to wear, where to go, what to do and who to socialize with.
Therefore, when Sam, a well-known author and her writing course tutor suggests helping her to fullfill her life-long dream of writing a book, she dares to go against her husband’s wishes and takes every opportunity she gets to write.
Would Katherine be able to finish the manuscript? Would her past mistakes catch up with her eventually? Who is sending her threatening messages? And why is Viola, Sam’s formidable wife asking so many questions about her family?
The Pupil was a fast-paced, suspenseful and enjoyable psychological thriller.
The characters were either pathetic or hateful, which was the point of the book I suppose.
Paul, Katherine’s husband, made me swear several times during reading and I actually stopped to take a few deep breaths to calm down. And if he said “Do you think it is wise?” one more time…..
Thanks to Dawn Goodwin, Aria publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy
There’s often more going on behind closed doors than we think.
It seems Katherine has everything she needs. A house in the suburbs, a loving husband and two adoring children. She is the ideal house-wife. She cleans, cooks, attends to the children and cleans some more. But underneath it all Katherine feels trapped and suffocated. Her husband dictates her every move. What to cook, what to wear, where to go, what to do and who to socialize with.
Therefore, when Sam, a well-known author and her writing course tutor suggests helping her to fullfill her life-long dream of writing a book, she dares to go against her husband’s wishes and takes every opportunity she gets to write.
Would Katherine be able to finish the manuscript? Would her past mistakes catch up with her eventually? Who is sending her threatening messages? And why is Viola, Sam’s formidable wife asking so many questions about her family?
The Pupil was a fast-paced, suspenseful and enjoyable psychological thriller.
The characters were either pathetic or hateful, which was the point of the book I suppose.
Paul, Katherine’s husband, made me swear several times during reading and I actually stopped to take a few deep breaths to calm down. And if he said “Do you think it is wise?” one more time…..
Thanks to Dawn Goodwin, Aria publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy
July 21, 2018
Alright, for those that follow me regularly I’m about to really begin repeating myself. I swear that The Pupil by Dawn Goodwin is a completely different book than what I read yesterday but in many ways it was much the same, even the covers are similar.
The Pupil centers around a lady names Katherine ‘Kathy’ Baxter who has wanted to be an author pretty much her whole life but no one has ever believed in her or thought she should pursue her dreams. Married now with children Kathy’s life is very much controlled by her husband down to what they eat or what she wears but finally Kathy has decided to do something for herself and she takes a writing class.
When the short class ends the teacher who is a published author and an idol pulls Kathy to the side and offers to continue to mentor her and work with her on publishing her novel. Of course her husband is completely against the whole thing but Kathy finds ways to hide her meetings from him and continues to work with the author and his wife on her novel.
Now for the part where I begin to repeat myself from what I just read yesterday. This book was one that was incredibly slow and mainly more drama than anything remotely thrilling. It really tried in spots to foreshadow more ominous things to come but what we get for the vast majority is about sneaking around writing the book. I got the general idea in about a quarter of the time if not less than that and had to keep reading until 95% for the boom, bang, final wrap up. So if an incredibly slow burn dramatic suspense is something you love then this may be for you but for me I enjoyed the author’s first book more.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The Pupil centers around a lady names Katherine ‘Kathy’ Baxter who has wanted to be an author pretty much her whole life but no one has ever believed in her or thought she should pursue her dreams. Married now with children Kathy’s life is very much controlled by her husband down to what they eat or what she wears but finally Kathy has decided to do something for herself and she takes a writing class.
When the short class ends the teacher who is a published author and an idol pulls Kathy to the side and offers to continue to mentor her and work with her on publishing her novel. Of course her husband is completely against the whole thing but Kathy finds ways to hide her meetings from him and continues to work with the author and his wife on her novel.
Now for the part where I begin to repeat myself from what I just read yesterday. This book was one that was incredibly slow and mainly more drama than anything remotely thrilling. It really tried in spots to foreshadow more ominous things to come but what we get for the vast majority is about sneaking around writing the book. I got the general idea in about a quarter of the time if not less than that and had to keep reading until 95% for the boom, bang, final wrap up. So if an incredibly slow burn dramatic suspense is something you love then this may be for you but for me I enjoyed the author’s first book more.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 3, 2018
Dawn Goodwin's twenty-year career has spanned PR, advertising and publishing, both in London and Johannesburg. A graduate of the Curtis Brown creative writing school, she loves to write about the personalities hiding behind the masks we wear every day, whether beautiful or ugly. Her debut "The Accident", a domestic psychological suspense novel that explored how jealousy, and grief can twist and tear open the normality of living, was published by Aria in October 2017. "The Pupil" is her second novel of the same genre and explores similarly dark themes as her previous book. She is a fellow geordie but now lives with her family in London. Her books are perfect for fans of Louise Jensen and Katerina Diamond.
Well, this one caught me by surprise! Now although this is classified as psychological suspense and explores themes that are extremely prevalent throughout the crime genre - such as lies, manipulation, revenge, cruel, controlling and deceptive behaviour from spouses, overbearing mothers, and dark secrets, this stood out from the others i've read. For a start, the story is intricately detailed and complex in places but not overly so and I found it to be readable with the tension building throughout. An absorbing yarn weaves it's way right until the end where the final denouement satisfies but ultimately could be criticised for being slightly too predictable. By the halfway point I was too engrossed to retire to bed and continued to finish it off into the wee small hours!
Most of what I felt for this book was positive, however, I did find that it was slightly overdramatic in parts and having just read another book that fell into the same trap of overdoing it, this irked me quite a bit. It is also quite drawn out and I felt the author was perhaps holding back the revelations until nearer the end but it didn't serve the book well as the middle part felt a tad long-winded with relatively little happening. None of the characters are likeable although I don't need them to be that way in order to enjoy a book but I know that some people need someone to cheer for whilst reading crime fiction.
I found it interesting that Goodwin chose to pen a story involving the publishing industry and that in turn made me wonder if this could be somewhat based on truth. It seems like maybe some of the tale is true or the author has dramatised events that actually did take place, after all she did has a career in pubishing. It's an intriguing thought but one we are not likely to discover the answer to. Having enjoyed this I plan to take a look at "The Accident", I just hope it's as well written but not as slow moving. I would say that this is better described as womens fiction as I think calling it a thriller is a bit of a stretch. Either way, it was a decent read but unfortunately a forgettable one.
Many thanks to Aria for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Well, this one caught me by surprise! Now although this is classified as psychological suspense and explores themes that are extremely prevalent throughout the crime genre - such as lies, manipulation, revenge, cruel, controlling and deceptive behaviour from spouses, overbearing mothers, and dark secrets, this stood out from the others i've read. For a start, the story is intricately detailed and complex in places but not overly so and I found it to be readable with the tension building throughout. An absorbing yarn weaves it's way right until the end where the final denouement satisfies but ultimately could be criticised for being slightly too predictable. By the halfway point I was too engrossed to retire to bed and continued to finish it off into the wee small hours!
Most of what I felt for this book was positive, however, I did find that it was slightly overdramatic in parts and having just read another book that fell into the same trap of overdoing it, this irked me quite a bit. It is also quite drawn out and I felt the author was perhaps holding back the revelations until nearer the end but it didn't serve the book well as the middle part felt a tad long-winded with relatively little happening. None of the characters are likeable although I don't need them to be that way in order to enjoy a book but I know that some people need someone to cheer for whilst reading crime fiction.
I found it interesting that Goodwin chose to pen a story involving the publishing industry and that in turn made me wonder if this could be somewhat based on truth. It seems like maybe some of the tale is true or the author has dramatised events that actually did take place, after all she did has a career in pubishing. It's an intriguing thought but one we are not likely to discover the answer to. Having enjoyed this I plan to take a look at "The Accident", I just hope it's as well written but not as slow moving. I would say that this is better described as womens fiction as I think calling it a thriller is a bit of a stretch. Either way, it was a decent read but unfortunately a forgettable one.
Many thanks to Aria for an ARC. I was not required to post a review and all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
August 6, 2018
Katherine Baxter has always loved to write, but she has never believed in herself.
So, when after completing a creative writing course, the instructor, best selling novelist, Samuel Morton, offers to mentor her, she is both confused and thrilled. After all, it’s not like the work she had offered in class had received much praise from her fellow students. Is he truly interested in her writing?
When literary agent Viola Matthews is introduced to her husband Samuel’s new protégée, she feels as if their paths have crossed before. But from where? And, is she really okay with her husband spending so much time behind closed doors with this beautiful, younger woman?
Everyone is hiding something from the past.
Everyone has a secret.
The book cover promises an unforgettable psychological thriller with a shocking twist-every book seems to be marketed that way lately....
I think this is more of a novel of SUSPENSE, and I enjoyed seeing if I was correct about the things that I felt were being hinted at, in the clues provided throughout the story. It was also fun getting a glimpse into the process of writing and publishing a book.
I will definitely go back and read the author’s debut novel, “The Accident” which I missed and keep an eye out for her future work.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Aria publishing, and Dawn Goodwin for the ARC provided in exchange for my Candid Review. You won’t have to wait long for your copy! Available Aug. 7th, 2018!
So, when after completing a creative writing course, the instructor, best selling novelist, Samuel Morton, offers to mentor her, she is both confused and thrilled. After all, it’s not like the work she had offered in class had received much praise from her fellow students. Is he truly interested in her writing?
When literary agent Viola Matthews is introduced to her husband Samuel’s new protégée, she feels as if their paths have crossed before. But from where? And, is she really okay with her husband spending so much time behind closed doors with this beautiful, younger woman?
Everyone is hiding something from the past.
Everyone has a secret.
The book cover promises an unforgettable psychological thriller with a shocking twist-every book seems to be marketed that way lately....
I think this is more of a novel of SUSPENSE, and I enjoyed seeing if I was correct about the things that I felt were being hinted at, in the clues provided throughout the story. It was also fun getting a glimpse into the process of writing and publishing a book.
I will definitely go back and read the author’s debut novel, “The Accident” which I missed and keep an eye out for her future work.
I would like to thank Netgalley, Aria publishing, and Dawn Goodwin for the ARC provided in exchange for my Candid Review. You won’t have to wait long for your copy! Available Aug. 7th, 2018!
August 3, 2018
The Pupil by Dawn Goodwin was a fast paced read that kept me interested right til the end. It wasn't quite the shocking twist that I expected but I really did enjoy it.
Katherine is married to Paul who is 15 years older than her and she is terribly unhappy. He is cruel and controlling and she really doesn't have much of a life other than her children. After completing a creative writing course, bestselling author Sam and his agent wife Viola take her under their wing and she starts to believe that her dreams of being a writer could come true. Viola believes that she knows Katherine from somewhere but can't place her. Right until the very end we don't know the connection.
An easy, fast read that will keep you guessing. Thanks to Aria and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
Katherine is married to Paul who is 15 years older than her and she is terribly unhappy. He is cruel and controlling and she really doesn't have much of a life other than her children. After completing a creative writing course, bestselling author Sam and his agent wife Viola take her under their wing and she starts to believe that her dreams of being a writer could come true. Viola believes that she knows Katherine from somewhere but can't place her. Right until the very end we don't know the connection.
An easy, fast read that will keep you guessing. Thanks to Aria and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
July 22, 2018
After reading some of the reviews posted in regards "The Pupil" I didn't hold out much hope for it. In my opinion I find some of the reviews harsh. I quite enjoyed it.
Katherine make one mistake 12 years previous and tries to get on with her life but it eventually all catches up with her when she meets a bestselling author and his wife.
Katherine make one mistake 12 years previous and tries to get on with her life but it eventually all catches up with her when she meets a bestselling author and his wife.
July 17, 2018
‘The Pupil’ by Dawn Goodwin published by Aria on Aug 8th
Hey, meet Katherine, a ‘boxed in’ Mum who has a ‘happy’ marriage to Paul but wants to realise her life long ambition to publish her book....enter Sam, a successful writer who wants to mentor her ( to be his Pupil ) and Viola, his larger than life wife who after one meeting realises she knows Katherine from a previous life....but what previous life? What secret that is so bad is Katherine hiding? And why is Viola so hellbent on destroying Katherine because of her past?
Intrigued? So was I and the book didnt disappoint as you were led by Katherine through her life and her relationships and highs and lows that ends with the secret being unveiled and Katherine being in very real danger
I loved the book, its a ‘wordy’ book with much description of events and people and conflicts but all done in an interesting way, at one point I realised the author had just described Katherine making a cup of tea and that it had been described and written in such a way it was part of the story and not something to dismiss, I am kinda finding it hard to describe the way the mundane in some books came alive in this book and the author wasted no words but made every sentence worthwhile and one scene to the next played out in my mind, very difficult to do when there is so much to distract you ( yep even when reading!! )
A dark, intense and fascinating book that really did have me hooked and one of those books I felt excited to read
I loved the characters and the descriptions of them and how they interacted throughout the book made for an immersive read
My only small criticism would be the slightly rushed ( to my mind ) ending and thats only because I didn’t want it to end!
A true psychological thriller which manages to add a new feeling to a busy genre
Thoroughly enjoyable 10/10 5 stars
Hey, meet Katherine, a ‘boxed in’ Mum who has a ‘happy’ marriage to Paul but wants to realise her life long ambition to publish her book....enter Sam, a successful writer who wants to mentor her ( to be his Pupil ) and Viola, his larger than life wife who after one meeting realises she knows Katherine from a previous life....but what previous life? What secret that is so bad is Katherine hiding? And why is Viola so hellbent on destroying Katherine because of her past?
Intrigued? So was I and the book didnt disappoint as you were led by Katherine through her life and her relationships and highs and lows that ends with the secret being unveiled and Katherine being in very real danger
I loved the book, its a ‘wordy’ book with much description of events and people and conflicts but all done in an interesting way, at one point I realised the author had just described Katherine making a cup of tea and that it had been described and written in such a way it was part of the story and not something to dismiss, I am kinda finding it hard to describe the way the mundane in some books came alive in this book and the author wasted no words but made every sentence worthwhile and one scene to the next played out in my mind, very difficult to do when there is so much to distract you ( yep even when reading!! )
A dark, intense and fascinating book that really did have me hooked and one of those books I felt excited to read
I loved the characters and the descriptions of them and how they interacted throughout the book made for an immersive read
My only small criticism would be the slightly rushed ( to my mind ) ending and thats only because I didn’t want it to end!
A true psychological thriller which manages to add a new feeling to a busy genre
Thoroughly enjoyable 10/10 5 stars
July 31, 2018
Katherine gave up her identity when she married Paul. An aspiring writer, she was working as a waitress ( not in a cocktail bar, mind you). Some of you probably are not old enough to know what song that is from! Anyhow, she was working hard to make ends meet when she met Paul. Paul is 15 years older than her and very financially stable. He provided a comfortable life and together they had two children. The problem is that Paul is very demanding and controlling. He literally dictates every single thing Katherine does. He is very adamant that he does not want her to become a writer.
They live in a neighborhood where all the moms stay home and their lives revolve around their child's activities. None of the other mothers want to be friends with Katherine, in fact they are hostile with her and exclude her from everything. Something happened in Katherine's past that the entire town seems to be aware of, which has turned them against her.
When Jack is 8 yrs old and Lilly is 10, Katherine decides she needs to do something for herself. She enrolls in a writing course taught by a best selling thriller author, Samuel Morton. Now this is where things get interesting. Samuel takes a special interest in Katherine and takes her under his wing to help her write her first novel. Is he truly just interested in shaping her into an author or does he have some romantic intentions? Samuel seems to have more of a "working relationship" with his wife Viola and it makes you wonder if he is taking a special interest in Katherine to fill a void. Katherine has a big case of fangirling, which I am sure much of us can relate to!
The ratings are all over the place on this book. People either loved it or not so much. I did like this book and I thought it was very well written. I think that if you go in expecting a thriller type book, you may be disappointed. If you go in expecting to read about a woman chasing her dreams to be a writer and the emotional hurtles she has to overcome, than you will probably like it. I found it interesting that the author really focused on the the struggle an author goes through while writing a book. Katherine had a lot of self doubt that she had what it took. Would she be able to live with the people bashing her book in reviews? This book that she put her heart and soul into? Even the best selling author Sam worried about if he "had another book in him." I am not an author, but this all seems very plausible that this is the struggle that authors go through. So since I am interested in books this was interesting to me.
I did like Katherine and was cheering her on to write a novel. I did ponder if Sam and Katherine were going to end up together as a couple. So it did intrigue me to read on. I will say that the ending was a bit predictable and I never felt a ton of suspense. There is nothing wrong with that because I did enjoy reading it. There is mystery surrounding Katherine's past and Sam and Viola have some questionable actions that make you wonder. I gave this book 4 stars because I did enjoy it, but it wasn't the edge of your seat thriller that I had expected. Again, nothing wrong with that, it may be that I have just read so many crazy, twisty thrillers lately.
Thank you to Dawn Goodwin, Aria and NetGalley for this ARC to read and review!
They live in a neighborhood where all the moms stay home and their lives revolve around their child's activities. None of the other mothers want to be friends with Katherine, in fact they are hostile with her and exclude her from everything. Something happened in Katherine's past that the entire town seems to be aware of, which has turned them against her.
When Jack is 8 yrs old and Lilly is 10, Katherine decides she needs to do something for herself. She enrolls in a writing course taught by a best selling thriller author, Samuel Morton. Now this is where things get interesting. Samuel takes a special interest in Katherine and takes her under his wing to help her write her first novel. Is he truly just interested in shaping her into an author or does he have some romantic intentions? Samuel seems to have more of a "working relationship" with his wife Viola and it makes you wonder if he is taking a special interest in Katherine to fill a void. Katherine has a big case of fangirling, which I am sure much of us can relate to!
The ratings are all over the place on this book. People either loved it or not so much. I did like this book and I thought it was very well written. I think that if you go in expecting a thriller type book, you may be disappointed. If you go in expecting to read about a woman chasing her dreams to be a writer and the emotional hurtles she has to overcome, than you will probably like it. I found it interesting that the author really focused on the the struggle an author goes through while writing a book. Katherine had a lot of self doubt that she had what it took. Would she be able to live with the people bashing her book in reviews? This book that she put her heart and soul into? Even the best selling author Sam worried about if he "had another book in him." I am not an author, but this all seems very plausible that this is the struggle that authors go through. So since I am interested in books this was interesting to me.
I did like Katherine and was cheering her on to write a novel. I did ponder if Sam and Katherine were going to end up together as a couple. So it did intrigue me to read on. I will say that the ending was a bit predictable and I never felt a ton of suspense. There is nothing wrong with that because I did enjoy reading it. There is mystery surrounding Katherine's past and Sam and Viola have some questionable actions that make you wonder. I gave this book 4 stars because I did enjoy it, but it wasn't the edge of your seat thriller that I had expected. Again, nothing wrong with that, it may be that I have just read so many crazy, twisty thrillers lately.
Thank you to Dawn Goodwin, Aria and NetGalley for this ARC to read and review!
August 14, 2018
This is my first read by this author. I’ll definitely be going back and reading her debut novel.
Katherine is married to Paul and they have two children. He is very over bearing and controlling so he isn’t happy when Katherine joins a writing course. The teacher of the course is a best selling author Samuel. Katherine is delighted when Sam takes her under his wing.
Although I thought this was a slow starter I really did enjoy this story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Katherine is married to Paul and they have two children. He is very over bearing and controlling so he isn’t happy when Katherine joins a writing course. The teacher of the course is a best selling author Samuel. Katherine is delighted when Sam takes her under his wing.
Although I thought this was a slow starter I really did enjoy this story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
July 16, 2018
Since childhood Katherine has dreamed to become a writer. After finishing and passing a writer’s class. Sam the tutor and also a successful writer, agrees to tutor her to help her fulfil her dream of writing a book and getting it published.
Katherine has everything in life. Two beautiful children and a loving husband and a happy marriage, the only thing wrong with her life, her husband disagrees in her writing a book. Instead she should be at home looking after her kids and making him happy, cooking him dinner. He stifles her.
So Katherine decides to me Sam behind Pauls back. Sometimes with his wife Viola who is a literary agent present. Viola thinks she knows Katherine from her past. And Katherine starts getting notes from someone saying that they are watching her and wishes her dead.
From quite early on I thought this book was slow. This book had no likeable characters. It did not grab me. I found it quite irritating. The way her husband treated her and I didn’t care what Katherine cooked her husband for dinner and annoyed me she didn’t stick up for herself. Sorry to the author but, this book didn’t do it for me. Others might like it but for me personally it didn’t.
Thank you NetGalley and Aria books for a Copy of The pupil by Dawn Goodwin.
Katherine has everything in life. Two beautiful children and a loving husband and a happy marriage, the only thing wrong with her life, her husband disagrees in her writing a book. Instead she should be at home looking after her kids and making him happy, cooking him dinner. He stifles her.
So Katherine decides to me Sam behind Pauls back. Sometimes with his wife Viola who is a literary agent present. Viola thinks she knows Katherine from her past. And Katherine starts getting notes from someone saying that they are watching her and wishes her dead.
From quite early on I thought this book was slow. This book had no likeable characters. It did not grab me. I found it quite irritating. The way her husband treated her and I didn’t care what Katherine cooked her husband for dinner and annoyed me she didn’t stick up for herself. Sorry to the author but, this book didn’t do it for me. Others might like it but for me personally it didn’t.
Thank you NetGalley and Aria books for a Copy of The pupil by Dawn Goodwin.
July 20, 2018
*4 Stars*
I found "The Pupil" to be a dark and twisted fast paced read by Dawn Goodwin. Katherine is an aspiring writer who takes a writing course held by a famous author Samuel Morton. Katherine ends up being mentored by both Samuel and his wife, Viola, who is a publisher. Katherine has an extremely complex history and upbringing along with a very controlling husband at home, Paul, who is not supportive of her writing. He requires her to be a stay at home mother to their two children and cook whatever he texts her daily for dinner that night. Katherine is torn between pursuing her dream of becoming a published author, and how to do this with her husband's permission. Along with this story comes secrets and twisted drama from Katherine's past and anonymous notes left threatening to expose her past. I thought the characters were extremely well developed and I enjoyed the writing style. I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend it!
**Special thanks to NetGalley and Aria publishing for allowing me an advanced ready copy in exchange for an honest review.**
I found "The Pupil" to be a dark and twisted fast paced read by Dawn Goodwin. Katherine is an aspiring writer who takes a writing course held by a famous author Samuel Morton. Katherine ends up being mentored by both Samuel and his wife, Viola, who is a publisher. Katherine has an extremely complex history and upbringing along with a very controlling husband at home, Paul, who is not supportive of her writing. He requires her to be a stay at home mother to their two children and cook whatever he texts her daily for dinner that night. Katherine is torn between pursuing her dream of becoming a published author, and how to do this with her husband's permission. Along with this story comes secrets and twisted drama from Katherine's past and anonymous notes left threatening to expose her past. I thought the characters were extremely well developed and I enjoyed the writing style. I really enjoyed this read and highly recommend it!
**Special thanks to NetGalley and Aria publishing for allowing me an advanced ready copy in exchange for an honest review.**
August 6, 2022
How many times can the author describe someone as having an "unreadable" expression??
July 12, 2018
Actual rating - 3.5
I'm a bit torn when it comes to this book, tbh.
There are no really likable caracters in here. MC is a bit whiny and dependent and too submissive for my liking, although that can be explained by her past, so I'm going to overlook that.
Her husband is just a dick and I don't believe
MC's mother is believable but seriously unlikable.
Sam and Viola... God, what a horrendous characters.
Idk if that's how people are getting published irl, but if the process is shown accurately then Im not surprised that so many shitty books are getting published nowadays.
The ending was a bit too sweet for me, but when I think of that it kinda fits the story.
The wrting is very decent, not super good, but decent and I hope the author won't stop writing, because I'd love to read more of her work!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review
I'm a bit torn when it comes to this book, tbh.
There are no really likable caracters in here. MC is a bit whiny and dependent and too submissive for my liking, although that can be explained by her past, so I'm going to overlook that.
Her husband is just a dick and I don't believe
MC's mother is believable but seriously unlikable.
Sam and Viola... God, what a horrendous characters.
Idk if that's how people are getting published irl, but if the process is shown accurately then Im not surprised that so many shitty books are getting published nowadays.
The ending was a bit too sweet for me, but when I think of that it kinda fits the story.
The wrting is very decent, not super good, but decent and I hope the author won't stop writing, because I'd love to read more of her work!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review
July 26, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. The humour and sadness is an excellent mix. It made me laugh and cry. Commendable imagery captured with authentic settings and characters. Katherine (alias Katie) has always wanted to write a novel. Nobody understands her compulsion to write. How well it displays the vulnerabilities of writers. I bet there are a lot of potential "bestseller" authors who for one reason or another have not taken the bull by the horns. She's surrounded by negativity from her mother, her friend, Helen and her husband, Paul. Paul is a dull, selfish Victorian husband with a detached interest in his family. He exercises a subtle control reducing Katherine into a subservient role. At times his control is blatant until Katherine recognises she is living HIS life by his rules instead of her own life. She's lost track of her real self and feels stifled. Her self-esteem is rock-bottom. She meets Sam, a writer in a writers' group who enthusiastically encourages her with an irresistible offer of mentoring her to write a novel. This project is backed up by his pincher-sharp wife, Viola. Katherine loves the thrill of doing something she loves for a change rather than something she has to do. Paul opposes her ambition, but she goes ahead secretly instead. Her duplicitous behaviour and secrets are like a teenage rebellion under the domestic suppression and suffocation of her intellectuality that she's endured. Paul wants his little woman at home tending to his needs and the children. His moods keep them all toeing the line. Then the threatening notes keep arriving reminding her of a past she's wanted to forget. Who is sending them? What is so awful about her past? Who is watching her? Will she achieve her goal and at what cost? Thank you to Netgalley and Aria.
June 27, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed the style of writing my favourite books are written in the first person and the story is told from Katherine's perspective, Katherine is a middle aged house wife and mum to Lily and jack, she lives a middle class lifestyle in a lovely home and her husband Paul has a good secure and well paid job. However Katherine feels there's a spark missing in her life, she loves her family unconditionally but wishes she could accomplish something that's hers, having always loved creative writing she embarks on a creative writing course which is run by the elusive Sam a well known crime thriller author, Sam offers to tutor Katherine when the course is finished after being impressed with the start of her novel, Katherine is delighted and takes Sam up on his offer, she meets sams no nonsense wife viola who is adamant she has met Katherine before.. the story is told between Katherine and viola twelve years ago something awful happened to viola and Katherine is hiding a secret from twelve years ago, I clicked on at the start that Katherine had done something to viola all those years ago and was eager to find out what exactly, viola reads Katherine's novel when it's finished and offers her representation but has her own sinister motives in mind.I enjoyed the way the story unraveled from past to present, I enjoyed Katherine's character and at times felt sorry for her following her dreams of writing her first novel but with no support from her husband Paul who at times seems rather controlling, I wouldn't say the big reveal at the end was a massive shock I clicked on half way through what it is that Katherine could have done all those years ago, but I still enjoyed it none the less. Thank you to netgalley for my copy of this book.
August 28, 2022
Katherine Baxter has always wanted to be a writer but has always been told that she is not good enough. With her self esteem at it's lowest point she enrols on a writing course, meets the author Samuel Morton and is encouraged to start writing again.
Katherine has two children and a controlling husband. After taking a few lessons at her writing course she suddenly begins to wake up and smell the coffee. Samuel's wife is sure she she has seen Katherine before and the penny drops on one fateful day. I actually read this book in one sitting and I was rooting for Katherine all the way. The ending was much more than I expected. Well written and a really entertaining psychological thriller. Will keep an eye out for more of this authors work.
Katherine has two children and a controlling husband. After taking a few lessons at her writing course she suddenly begins to wake up and smell the coffee. Samuel's wife is sure she she has seen Katherine before and the penny drops on one fateful day. I actually read this book in one sitting and I was rooting for Katherine all the way. The ending was much more than I expected. Well written and a really entertaining psychological thriller. Will keep an eye out for more of this authors work.
August 13, 2018
Goodwin’s second novel is a slow burn thriller that takes its time to lay down the ground work with a great flourish. The novel takes its time but this is one its main assets because in a more incapable hand, this could have been its downfall. The Pupil uses this as its advantage because this first third of the book is never boring but builds an intrigue that often is lacking in other books whom normally choose to jump into the action without much time for characterisations.
The characters are very well driven towards their conclusion and although there is a couple of plot points that don’t quite pay off for instance the main protagonist not recognising the couple, this doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of this novel. I imagine that due to the slow burn beginning, some readers will lack the patient to drive them forward but this would be the mistake of the reader because the end payoff is a total winner.
The plot is very well balanced and in the hands of its masterful author, this is handled very carefully. She is able to take characters and flesh them out in their motives. They are craftly mastered so you are not quite sure what each characters know and what are their exact motivations. The characters could have easily fallen into soap opera entrapments but Goodwin here manages to steer them away from the melodrama and keep things on a realistic basis.
Overall, this is an interesting and enjoyable read that pays off the readers with an excellent conclusion that does not settle for an easy all happy ending but does find retribution and social consciousness for all the characters involved. The main character is intelligent and strong and her emotional journey fits very well within the plot. If you are looking for a strongly led character study into the mind of a woman on the edge as she works her way back into society with a thriller edge, you can not go wrong. Dawn Goodwin’s The Pupil is an intelligent, gripping thriller that should find its audience. For those that take the time to delve into the characters motivations and let them unfold before your eyes, you will be heavily rewarded. A true winner.
The characters are very well driven towards their conclusion and although there is a couple of plot points that don’t quite pay off for instance the main protagonist not recognising the couple, this doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of this novel. I imagine that due to the slow burn beginning, some readers will lack the patient to drive them forward but this would be the mistake of the reader because the end payoff is a total winner.
The plot is very well balanced and in the hands of its masterful author, this is handled very carefully. She is able to take characters and flesh them out in their motives. They are craftly mastered so you are not quite sure what each characters know and what are their exact motivations. The characters could have easily fallen into soap opera entrapments but Goodwin here manages to steer them away from the melodrama and keep things on a realistic basis.
Overall, this is an interesting and enjoyable read that pays off the readers with an excellent conclusion that does not settle for an easy all happy ending but does find retribution and social consciousness for all the characters involved. The main character is intelligent and strong and her emotional journey fits very well within the plot. If you are looking for a strongly led character study into the mind of a woman on the edge as she works her way back into society with a thriller edge, you can not go wrong. Dawn Goodwin’s The Pupil is an intelligent, gripping thriller that should find its audience. For those that take the time to delve into the characters motivations and let them unfold before your eyes, you will be heavily rewarded. A true winner.
July 13, 2018
Firstly I must say I’ve never had cottage pie with a green salad! Also, I’m not sure Advil painkillers are readily available here in the UK! saying that, I did thoroughly enjoy the book, it was a different type of crime thriller, albeit at times a little long winded in finding out what heinous crimes Katherine had committed.
I felt sorry for Katherine, her children were delightful, but straight away, I could see how controlling her husband was, he was an emotional bully, and I’d have kicked him into touch years ago. I didn’t like viola either, she was very devious but kept it well hidden and Sam was living in a dream world most of the time.
My thanks to the author and netgalley for the ARC.
I felt sorry for Katherine, her children were delightful, but straight away, I could see how controlling her husband was, he was an emotional bully, and I’d have kicked him into touch years ago. I didn’t like viola either, she was very devious but kept it well hidden and Sam was living in a dream world most of the time.
My thanks to the author and netgalley for the ARC.
July 14, 2018
I salute anyone who has the skills set to put together a novel. The time, effort & complete dedication to this craft is no mean feat (ask me how I know). Therefore I find it difficult to write a scathing review for any writer..but I am merely here to offer my opinion on this particular title as a reader.
Katey is an aspiring writer, a complete novice but chasing childhood dreams not fulfilled. After taking a writing short course she becomes motivated to produce the novel she has always felt burning inside her, encouraged by her tutor Sam who is keen to mentor her through the process. Determined to find something for herself amidst busy family life the only things holding her back are a domineering husband and a secret from the past.
Despite snippets of the secret being drip fed to the reader it soon becomes quite predictable what kind of incident has occurred..making the possibility of a good story slightly tedious.
Sam's wife Viola comes across to Katey as a confusing entity. Although outwardly generous towards her husband's protege; it's clear Viola harbours some contemptuous feelings.
The plot becomes somewhat transparent after this and I am trying to refrain from including any spoilers.
Everything comes to a head, the past is revealed but it seems rather hastily tidied up at the end and I felt my eyes roll as I read the last chapter.
That is not to say I would not recommend it. The author has a nice writing style but the plot just needs a few more layers to make it better. Credit the reader with some intelligence and perhaps not give away quite as many clues as to historical incidents.
Katey is an aspiring writer, a complete novice but chasing childhood dreams not fulfilled. After taking a writing short course she becomes motivated to produce the novel she has always felt burning inside her, encouraged by her tutor Sam who is keen to mentor her through the process. Determined to find something for herself amidst busy family life the only things holding her back are a domineering husband and a secret from the past.
Despite snippets of the secret being drip fed to the reader it soon becomes quite predictable what kind of incident has occurred..making the possibility of a good story slightly tedious.
Sam's wife Viola comes across to Katey as a confusing entity. Although outwardly generous towards her husband's protege; it's clear Viola harbours some contemptuous feelings.
The plot becomes somewhat transparent after this and I am trying to refrain from including any spoilers.
Everything comes to a head, the past is revealed but it seems rather hastily tidied up at the end and I felt my eyes roll as I read the last chapter.
That is not to say I would not recommend it. The author has a nice writing style but the plot just needs a few more layers to make it better. Credit the reader with some intelligence and perhaps not give away quite as many clues as to historical incidents.
August 7, 2018
Socially awkward, introverted and insecure Katherine Baxter has finally convinced her overly controlling older husband, Paul, to allow her to take a week-long writing workshop in London. Yes, it means taking the train all by herself from the suburbs into London twice a day. Yes, she assures him that she is capable of doing that. His requirement is that there be no interruption to his schedule, or the schedule of their two children while she is attending the workshop. From there Katherine starts her pattern of deceiving her husband as she gets drawn deeper and deeper into the lives of the Writing Workshop leader, well-known author Sam Morton; and his wife, Literary Agent, Viola Matthews.
While Dawn Goodwin has tried to hit the ‘Psychological Thriller’ mark, for me she fell a little flat. There wasn’t a whole lot of suspense, and I figured out the mystery pretty early on. Katherine, known as ‘Kathy’ in her neighborhood had some traumatic that she was involved in years ago. She didn’t cope well, and Paul helped pull her from the after-effects of that situation, hence her loyalty to Paul even if he is controlling. But that controlling has recently become very stifling, and Katherine is determined to revive her life-long dream of becoming a published author. Hence her desire to attend the class lead by Sam Morton.
After the class concludes, Sam offers to become her mentor, and work with her one on one to help shape the outline of her book into something publishable. Katherine soon meets Sam’s wife, Viola at a literary party, and there is just something about Katherine that makes Viola think that they’ve met before. Sam and Katherine begin meeting regularly, and Viola pops up at odd times. Then Katherine starts getting threatening notes shoved in her mail slot, and she struggles to keep the different parts of her life from intersecting. She’s hiding her writing, getting her girlfriend to cover for her during absences when she’s working with Sam or Viola, and lying to Paul about the goings-on. Did she drink too much, or was she drugged at a dinner with Sam and Viola? How can she explain that to Paul? Her coping skills are stretched to the breaking point as events seem to spin faster and faster.
The plotline ends with a big bang, and all is revealed. (All is revealed if you hadn’t already figured it out, as I suspect most readers will have long before the end of the book.) The story just moved a bit too slowly for me, and there wasn’t really a likeable character in the bunch. I had sympathy for Katherine, but based on her ongoing deception, I didn’t like her very much.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; Aria Publishing; and the author, Dawn Goodwin; for providing a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While Dawn Goodwin has tried to hit the ‘Psychological Thriller’ mark, for me she fell a little flat. There wasn’t a whole lot of suspense, and I figured out the mystery pretty early on. Katherine, known as ‘Kathy’ in her neighborhood had some traumatic that she was involved in years ago. She didn’t cope well, and Paul helped pull her from the after-effects of that situation, hence her loyalty to Paul even if he is controlling. But that controlling has recently become very stifling, and Katherine is determined to revive her life-long dream of becoming a published author. Hence her desire to attend the class lead by Sam Morton.
After the class concludes, Sam offers to become her mentor, and work with her one on one to help shape the outline of her book into something publishable. Katherine soon meets Sam’s wife, Viola at a literary party, and there is just something about Katherine that makes Viola think that they’ve met before. Sam and Katherine begin meeting regularly, and Viola pops up at odd times. Then Katherine starts getting threatening notes shoved in her mail slot, and she struggles to keep the different parts of her life from intersecting. She’s hiding her writing, getting her girlfriend to cover for her during absences when she’s working with Sam or Viola, and lying to Paul about the goings-on. Did she drink too much, or was she drugged at a dinner with Sam and Viola? How can she explain that to Paul? Her coping skills are stretched to the breaking point as events seem to spin faster and faster.
The plotline ends with a big bang, and all is revealed. (All is revealed if you hadn’t already figured it out, as I suspect most readers will have long before the end of the book.) The story just moved a bit too slowly for me, and there wasn’t really a likeable character in the bunch. I had sympathy for Katherine, but based on her ongoing deception, I didn’t like her very much.
‘Thank-You’ to NetGalley; Aria Publishing; and the author, Dawn Goodwin; for providing a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2018
I landed myself on another book about unreliable main character. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. The blurb sounded great, up to my expectation and hopefully an awesome story.
The first half was boring as in, too slow for my liking. But, some readers may call it as story building. I may read a lot of mystery/thriller but I watched a lot of action movies which was fast pace. And I did come upon some fast pace mystery/thriller. So, for my personal reference, this book is way too slow. Oh no, don't be deter by me. It's probably just me. I like to be in the minority.
Anyway, the ending was a bit off. I'm pretty sure I read a book with a similar plot. And the thing is, I forgot what's the book name and who wrote it as much as I will forget about this one until another book come along with similar plot and a light bulb goes on in my head.
The first half was boring as in, too slow for my liking. But, some readers may call it as story building. I may read a lot of mystery/thriller but I watched a lot of action movies which was fast pace. And I did come upon some fast pace mystery/thriller. So, for my personal reference, this book is way too slow. Oh no, don't be deter by me. It's probably just me. I like to be in the minority.
Anyway, the ending was a bit off. I'm pretty sure I read a book with a similar plot. And the thing is, I forgot what's the book name and who wrote it as much as I will forget about this one until another book come along with similar plot and a light bulb goes on in my head.
May 8, 2019
3.5 stars. Overall, a good and suspenseful psychological thriller. I thought the exploration of a wide range of toxic relationships was well done with sufficient depth and I was really impressed. As I was reading this book I felt grateful and lucky as I never had to go through what Katherine went through; unlike her I had been fortunate enough to have so many people who had encouraged and supported me throughout my current journey of producing my first novel.Whilst I felt for Katherine throughout, I couldn’t warm to her for some reason and neither could I warm to her toxic mother, husband and best friend as well as Viola. To meet so many toxic characters in one book was quite depressing and I was a little unconvinced. Perhaps it was just me but I felt that the characters could have been more developed. My decision of giving this book 3.5 stars was also influenced by the tiny plot holes I saw and how I found some small parts of the book a bit melodramatic and less convincing than the rest of the book. Despite all that, I did find the book inspirational and like the uplifting ending.
October 10, 2018
I truly enjoyed this book! Katherine is a stay at home mom looking after her two children. She dreams of being an author! Her husband Paul is not supportive of her dream at all. So Katherine enrolls in a writing course and meets an author Sam. Sam decides to help Katherine with her manuscript. While working with Sam, Katherine meets his wife viola. Viola is sure she’s met Katherine before but the question is where. Sam and Katherine’s bond deepen and viola realizes she needs to take control of the situation unfolding around her.
August 26, 2018
A gripping story which started with a slow burn and ultimately erupted into a blazing finale. The subtle hints of the traumatic history of the main character were interspersed with the struggles of balancing her writing with her family life, and when the mysterious past was finally revealed the story came together with heartbreaking clarity.
Sincere thanks, as always, to #NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to review this book.
Sincere thanks, as always, to #NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to review this book.
August 26, 2020
Great story good for Katherine for being a survivor
August 4, 2018
Katherine Baxter is a mum of two small kids, a housewife and to all appearances just another mother trying to get through the routine, the boring, the mundane. Behind this facade is a girl who had dreams of writing, of becoming an author and getting published. She also has a past which wrecked the lives of four people, was followed by the paparazzi and though she came out of it alive, she was definitely not left unscathed. Upto date, under a doctor's care with anti depressants and a careful watch by her husband she manages her life.
Attending a workshop for aspiring authors renews Katherine's hopes that she can write and sets in motion a series of meetings with Sam Morton who undertakes to mentor her, and his wife Viola who throughout the story blows hot and cold. It is only much later that you understand Viola's hatred for Katherine - illogical though it is.
Throughout the novel, you did know that something was amiss and halfway through I realised it was connected to Katherine's past and inextricably linked to the Mortons. Sad but twisted in Viola's mind was revenge of the most basic kind.
A suspenseful mystery trying to unravel the workings of the mind (which I think can never be fully and rationally understood!!)
Attending a workshop for aspiring authors renews Katherine's hopes that she can write and sets in motion a series of meetings with Sam Morton who undertakes to mentor her, and his wife Viola who throughout the story blows hot and cold. It is only much later that you understand Viola's hatred for Katherine - illogical though it is.
Throughout the novel, you did know that something was amiss and halfway through I realised it was connected to Katherine's past and inextricably linked to the Mortons. Sad but twisted in Viola's mind was revenge of the most basic kind.
A suspenseful mystery trying to unravel the workings of the mind (which I think can never be fully and rationally understood!!)
July 19, 2018
Feels like I’ve read so many of these books lately - “domestic thrillers” with those kind of covers and a “The [insert noun here]” title. (What next? - The Sandwich. The Wardrobe.) Some of these books can be really good, but I’m starting to yearn for a bit more creativity in title and cover design.
Anyway this story follows Katherine, wife and mother and aspiring author who somehow finds herself being mentored by the successful Samuel Morton. However Samuel’s literary agent wife, Viola, appears to have her own agenda.
I neither liked nor disliked the main character who, despite the first person narrative, never gelled as a character for me. Aside from her great big eyes (which everyone kept referring to), she seems to have no particular distinctive characteristics and her allegedly burning desire to write did not convince, still less the notion that she was any good at it. Other characters were no more engaging. Katherine’s husband Paul’s main personality trait seems to be “being patronising and annoying”.
Ultimately it’s all just a bit too formulaic. Mysterious Bad Thing in Katherine’s past? - check. Threatening “I know what you did” messages? - check. Scattered excerpts from teenage diary of initially unknown authorship? - check.
I didn’t really care what the Mysterious Bad Thing was, and given that the blurb refers to “one moment of carelessness - four shattered lives”, it’s not hard to guess the general gist of it, if not the details.
There are a number of proofreading errors (eg “you’re” for “your”) which will hopefully be corrected before publication, and a few oddities (I’ve never heard a UK police officer refer to themselves as “Patrol Officer”, and I’m not sure Advil painkillers are available here either).
Ultimately I’m afraid I found this book hard going and was never really engaged by it. However I’m sure many people will enjoy it more than I did.
Anyway this story follows Katherine, wife and mother and aspiring author who somehow finds herself being mentored by the successful Samuel Morton. However Samuel’s literary agent wife, Viola, appears to have her own agenda.
I neither liked nor disliked the main character who, despite the first person narrative, never gelled as a character for me. Aside from her great big eyes (which everyone kept referring to), she seems to have no particular distinctive characteristics and her allegedly burning desire to write did not convince, still less the notion that she was any good at it. Other characters were no more engaging. Katherine’s husband Paul’s main personality trait seems to be “being patronising and annoying”.
Ultimately it’s all just a bit too formulaic. Mysterious Bad Thing in Katherine’s past? - check. Threatening “I know what you did” messages? - check. Scattered excerpts from teenage diary of initially unknown authorship? - check.
I didn’t really care what the Mysterious Bad Thing was, and given that the blurb refers to “one moment of carelessness - four shattered lives”, it’s not hard to guess the general gist of it, if not the details.
There are a number of proofreading errors (eg “you’re” for “your”) which will hopefully be corrected before publication, and a few oddities (I’ve never heard a UK police officer refer to themselves as “Patrol Officer”, and I’m not sure Advil painkillers are available here either).
Ultimately I’m afraid I found this book hard going and was never really engaged by it. However I’m sure many people will enjoy it more than I did.
August 5, 2018
I absolutely loved this story, a really exciting, dark psychological thriller about Katherine, a middle aged housewife and mother. Katherine has lost her way in life, with an over baring negative mother and an unpleasant and controlling husband. Feeling that something is missing she decides to take up a creative writing course, she meets Sam an author who offers to tutor her, and the story gets darker from there. The story covers a 12 year period and involves a dark secret that Katherine is hiding.
An excellent story which I read in a day, and really well written.
An excellent story which I read in a day, and really well written.
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