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The Pupil
She wants to learn everything – about you.
Mel has practised law for twenty years. She is well-regarded by her peers. Her clients are happy. But behind the scenes her life is disordered. Her son grows increasingly distant from her. The married man she is sleeping with fails to give her what she needs.
When a trainee lawyer is allocated to Mel it is poor timing. The last thing she wants is a pupil watching her every move. And Natasha does watch. She sees each detail – and every mistake. Mel cannot shake the feeling that Natasha isn’t just learning the job. She is learning Mel.
Natasha is good at getting what she wants, and now Mel has the power to give her all she desires. But when Mel chooses not to, Natasha knows just what Mel’s vulnerabilities are – and how to turn them against her. Mel’s secrets could ruin her. But who will be believed?
A twisted and gripping tale of desperation and revenge perfect for fans of Renée Knight, Sarah Vaughan and Michelle Frances.
Mel has practised law for twenty years. She is well-regarded by her peers. Her clients are happy. But behind the scenes her life is disordered. Her son grows increasingly distant from her. The married man she is sleeping with fails to give her what she needs.
When a trainee lawyer is allocated to Mel it is poor timing. The last thing she wants is a pupil watching her every move. And Natasha does watch. She sees each detail – and every mistake. Mel cannot shake the feeling that Natasha isn’t just learning the job. She is learning Mel.
Natasha is good at getting what she wants, and now Mel has the power to give her all she desires. But when Mel chooses not to, Natasha knows just what Mel’s vulnerabilities are – and how to turn them against her. Mel’s secrets could ruin her. But who will be believed?
A twisted and gripping tale of desperation and revenge perfect for fans of Renée Knight, Sarah Vaughan and Michelle Frances.
- GenresLegalMystery Thriller
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2020
57 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 4, 2020
this has practiced law for twenty years. She is well-regarded by her peers. Her clients are happy. But behind the scenes her life is disordered. Her son grows increasingly distant from her. When a trainee lawyer is allocated to Mel, it's poor timing. The last thing she needs is someone watching her every move. And Natasha does watch. She sees every detail and every mistake.
Could Mel be right about Natasha and everyone else be wrong. Mel is paranoid as Natasha is quite young, a good barrister and she's ambitious. She also has a colourful past. The story is told from both women's. This is a story of devious tactics and manipulation. Mel finds her life getting more complicated. I didn't like either of the two women. Part drama, part thriller, this is an enjoyable read.
I would like to thank NetGalley. Canelo and the author Ros Carne for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Could Mel be right about Natasha and everyone else be wrong. Mel is paranoid as Natasha is quite young, a good barrister and she's ambitious. She also has a colourful past. The story is told from both women's. This is a story of devious tactics and manipulation. Mel finds her life getting more complicated. I didn't like either of the two women. Part drama, part thriller, this is an enjoyable read.
I would like to thank NetGalley. Canelo and the author Ros Carne for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2021
3.5 stars
As the main characters are Lawyers, there is a fair amount of courtroom drama with various cases being worked on which was definitely the highlight for me.
The main storyline actually didn’t work for me. The things that happen are a little ridiculous. The characters were also flat. There was sooo much potential for Natasha to be so much more than what she was which really would have made this book so much better.
Overall, it a quick, enjoyable read.
As the main characters are Lawyers, there is a fair amount of courtroom drama with various cases being worked on which was definitely the highlight for me.
The main storyline actually didn’t work for me. The things that happen are a little ridiculous. The characters were also flat. There was sooo much potential for Natasha to be so much more than what she was which really would have made this book so much better.
Overall, it a quick, enjoyable read.
July 22, 2022
Couldn't give it less than a 1 or I would 🤢
⚠️ TW: assault, grooming, paedophilia ⚠️ Unfortunately, this is my first DNF of the year! This book follows Mel who has practiced in law for twenty years and is well regarded among her colleagues and clients. However behind the scenes her life is disordered, her 16 year old son, Jacob, is distant and she's sleeping with a married man so when she is assigned a trainee lawyer, Natasha, it was the last thing she needed. Natasha watches Mel's every move as well as her every mistake, and as Mel begins to feel that she isn't just trying to learn the job but also learn her she discovers that Natasha has unearthed secrets that could ruin her but who will be believed? I don't even know where to start with this one but unfortunately from the beginning I just didn't like the two main characters, Mel and Natasha. Mel seemed very arrogant and looked down at Natasha as her pupil and initially saw her as a professional threat. And Natasha was painted as the bad main character from the start despite nothing other than some minor personality and behavioural issues being revealed however in chapter 20 she then decides to message Mel's 16 year old son under an alias to groom him for nudes which I found vile as she is in her mid 20's and before I thought it couldn't get any worse he sends her a nude photo to which the character 'shivered with pleasure as she took in his young naked body' 🤮 After that I couldn't read any further and it was an instant DNF for me. Overall, it was generally very slow and didn't really grab my attention even though it was a somewhat easy read. As you can imagine from this review, I do not recommend reading this book.
⚠️ TW: assault, grooming, paedophilia ⚠️ Unfortunately, this is my first DNF of the year! This book follows Mel who has practiced in law for twenty years and is well regarded among her colleagues and clients. However behind the scenes her life is disordered, her 16 year old son, Jacob, is distant and she's sleeping with a married man so when she is assigned a trainee lawyer, Natasha, it was the last thing she needed. Natasha watches Mel's every move as well as her every mistake, and as Mel begins to feel that she isn't just trying to learn the job but also learn her she discovers that Natasha has unearthed secrets that could ruin her but who will be believed? I don't even know where to start with this one but unfortunately from the beginning I just didn't like the two main characters, Mel and Natasha. Mel seemed very arrogant and looked down at Natasha as her pupil and initially saw her as a professional threat. And Natasha was painted as the bad main character from the start despite nothing other than some minor personality and behavioural issues being revealed however in chapter 20 she then decides to message Mel's 16 year old son under an alias to groom him for nudes which I found vile as she is in her mid 20's and before I thought it couldn't get any worse he sends her a nude photo to which the character 'shivered with pleasure as she took in his young naked body' 🤮 After that I couldn't read any further and it was an instant DNF for me. Overall, it was generally very slow and didn't really grab my attention even though it was a somewhat easy read. As you can imagine from this review, I do not recommend reading this book.
July 22, 2020
This book is absolutely brilliant, and by far the best book that I have read this year, and in fact even longer than that.
The pages magically turned themselves as I couldn't wait to hear about the story evolving between Mel and her pupil Natasha who was a complete and utter madam.
I would give this 100 stars if I could - it was brilliantly written and draws you in from the first chapter.
The pages magically turned themselves as I couldn't wait to hear about the story evolving between Mel and her pupil Natasha who was a complete and utter madam.
I would give this 100 stars if I could - it was brilliantly written and draws you in from the first chapter.
June 11, 2020
An intriguing premise, but a novel that didn't deliver! Way too slow! The two third of the book felt like a filler to me. Small talk and walking around, the plot wait to unveil itself and when it does... well this isn't really something worth the wait.
November 29, 2020
Quite a slow read where Mel had a good family and work life balance. Respect and money along with good cases made her a successful lawyer. But that was a facade, at home, things were quite different.
In this stressful time, she was given a trainee lawyer, Natasha, who kept a close watch on her, too close a watch. Told to me by their POV, it was interesting to know how convoluted the plot could get. Both the women seemed to have secrets.
The story ended with a flourish. But could have been better. This kept on the right side of interesting but I wish it had more of emotions and fireworks in it.
In this stressful time, she was given a trainee lawyer, Natasha, who kept a close watch on her, too close a watch. Told to me by their POV, it was interesting to know how convoluted the plot could get. Both the women seemed to have secrets.
The story ended with a flourish. But could have been better. This kept on the right side of interesting but I wish it had more of emotions and fireworks in it.
April 13, 2021
It was not the quickest read I have read but still an enjoyable one. Mel really did not want a pupil, not one that would take so much interest in her job, son,mum in general her life. All the characters are flawed, maybe Natasha was the most but they all had some secret up their sleeves. 4 stars
August 9, 2020
I love any book set in the legal world, so I was really looking forward to this and it did not disappoint. There was a great mix of detail about legal matters, and the personal stories of the two protagonists, Mel and Natasha, to give me everything I was looking for.
The story is told in the alternating voices of the two women, although slightly more weight is given to Mel’s voice, and it seems like we are supposed to sympathise more with her predicament than Natasha’s, but not everything is that straight forward, which makes for a gripping story. Although Natasha seems to be manipulative and a schemer, Mel is not a saint herself, as we soon find out.
Mel has a messy life, which I am sure many of us can relate to, trying to juggle a demanding job with relationships and motherhood, especially of a son in those difficult, mid-teen years where they are the cusp of adulthood but not quite there yet. On top of this, she is given charge of a pupil to teach, an added strain she doesn’t want or need, particularly when there is a personality clash.
I could feel the strain taking its toll on Mel throughout the book, and the author also develops Natasha as a menacing and noxious presence in Mel’s life. At the same time, Natasha has her own history and problems that have shaped her behaviour so, despite everything, I did manage to retain a small shred of sympathy for her. This clever balancing of light and shade in each character means that the readers feelings swing from side to side along with the plot and, like a jury, the verdict is out until the end of the book.
I enjoyed the final ‘showdown’ very much and, for me, the ending worked really well, although I think there may be some who would wish that it had ended differently and more dramatically. However, this seemed to be a more honest and likely ending than one that was engineered just for effect. All in all, I was very satisfied with this read and the way it all came out. Interesting premise and characters and enough tension and exciting events to keep the reader interested throughout. Highly recommended.
The story is told in the alternating voices of the two women, although slightly more weight is given to Mel’s voice, and it seems like we are supposed to sympathise more with her predicament than Natasha’s, but not everything is that straight forward, which makes for a gripping story. Although Natasha seems to be manipulative and a schemer, Mel is not a saint herself, as we soon find out.
Mel has a messy life, which I am sure many of us can relate to, trying to juggle a demanding job with relationships and motherhood, especially of a son in those difficult, mid-teen years where they are the cusp of adulthood but not quite there yet. On top of this, she is given charge of a pupil to teach, an added strain she doesn’t want or need, particularly when there is a personality clash.
I could feel the strain taking its toll on Mel throughout the book, and the author also develops Natasha as a menacing and noxious presence in Mel’s life. At the same time, Natasha has her own history and problems that have shaped her behaviour so, despite everything, I did manage to retain a small shred of sympathy for her. This clever balancing of light and shade in each character means that the readers feelings swing from side to side along with the plot and, like a jury, the verdict is out until the end of the book.
I enjoyed the final ‘showdown’ very much and, for me, the ending worked really well, although I think there may be some who would wish that it had ended differently and more dramatically. However, this seemed to be a more honest and likely ending than one that was engineered just for effect. All in all, I was very satisfied with this read and the way it all came out. Interesting premise and characters and enough tension and exciting events to keep the reader interested throughout. Highly recommended.
August 10, 2020
Mel has practised law for twenty years. She is well-regarded by her peers. Her clients are happy. But behind the scenes her life is disordered. Her son grows increasingly distant from her. The married man she is sleeping with fails to give her what she needs. When a trainee lawyer is allocated to Mel it is poor timing. The last thing she wants is a pupil watching her every move. And Natasha does watch. She sees each detail – and every mistake. Mel cannot shake the feeling that Natasha isn’t just learning the job. She is learning Mel. Natasha is good at getting what she wants, and now Mel has the power to give her all she desires. But when Mel chooses not to, Natasha knows just what Mel’s vulnerabilities are – and how to turn them against her. Mel’s secrets could ruin her. But who will be believed?
As I started this I found myself addicted to the atmosphere that Carne creates. From very early on, there is a deliciously, thick and suspicious atmosphere to the read and this carries on for the whole book which was really good. However, to my disappointment, it did not really go anywhere. Carne really sets this book up well and then it falters and nothing really happens. I mean events do happen but they are nothing like what I was expecting, and I do not say this in a good way.
Whilst reading this, it felt like Carne was setting up some really excellent plot twists. There are clues during the read that I thought were going to go somewhere dramatic and then nothing happened with them. It was really odd and meant the read lost all impact and originality. Then there is the length of this read, it is way too long, dramatically too long. There are whole sections that could be cut and the read would not be any worse.
So I did not particularly enjoy the plot and found it very weak. But could the characters save this read? Well, sadly not. Mel and Natasha are incredibly unlikeable. I do not think I have anything good to say about them. I do think they are supposed to be these ruthless, ambitious characters but Carne does not give them a likeable factor to counter-balance this. Nor, is there another character I could cling onto. This read really suffered from a lack of likeable characters and people to root for.
‘The Pupil’ is too long, too dull and does not have anything much to like about it. However, Carne does create an electric atmosphere, so there is one thing positive. It is just a real shame the atmosphere leads nowhere.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for an advance copy.
As I started this I found myself addicted to the atmosphere that Carne creates. From very early on, there is a deliciously, thick and suspicious atmosphere to the read and this carries on for the whole book which was really good. However, to my disappointment, it did not really go anywhere. Carne really sets this book up well and then it falters and nothing really happens. I mean events do happen but they are nothing like what I was expecting, and I do not say this in a good way.
Whilst reading this, it felt like Carne was setting up some really excellent plot twists. There are clues during the read that I thought were going to go somewhere dramatic and then nothing happened with them. It was really odd and meant the read lost all impact and originality. Then there is the length of this read, it is way too long, dramatically too long. There are whole sections that could be cut and the read would not be any worse.
So I did not particularly enjoy the plot and found it very weak. But could the characters save this read? Well, sadly not. Mel and Natasha are incredibly unlikeable. I do not think I have anything good to say about them. I do think they are supposed to be these ruthless, ambitious characters but Carne does not give them a likeable factor to counter-balance this. Nor, is there another character I could cling onto. This read really suffered from a lack of likeable characters and people to root for.
‘The Pupil’ is too long, too dull and does not have anything much to like about it. However, Carne does create an electric atmosphere, so there is one thing positive. It is just a real shame the atmosphere leads nowhere.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for an advance copy.
March 9, 2021
An interesting read, definitely kept me absorbed however I did struggle throughout the book with both of the main characters. I didn't find either character particularly likeable but thankfully the 'villain' in this story was intriguing enough to keep me reading.
The one character Natasha kept dipping into her childhood but never really explained any further, it would have been nice to know more about her background and why she was the way she was.
Overall, it was an enjoyable book, just felt it was missing that little bit extra.
The one character Natasha kept dipping into her childhood but never really explained any further, it would have been nice to know more about her background and why she was the way she was.
Overall, it was an enjoyable book, just felt it was missing that little bit extra.
April 10, 2021
I really enjoyed this book, and I wanted to find out how it ended as it was a page turner for sure!
This book didn’t follow the plot that I thought it was and I enjoyed the path that it took!
I would recommend!
This book didn’t follow the plot that I thought it was and I enjoyed the path that it took!
I would recommend!
August 9, 2020
Mel Goddard is an experienced and respected barrister working in the fields of criminal and family law, but her private life is in a mess. Her affair with a married man is faltering, her relationship with her teenage son has become difficult and distressing, and her frail mother needs care that Mel finds it hard to give. When she’s told that she has to act as supervisor to a pupil barrister for the next six months, she regards it as a chore she could well do without. Soon, however, she discovers that supervising Natasha is going to be far more than an inconvenience. Manipulative, selfish and dishonest, her pupil begins to insinuate herself into Mel’s life, threatening to harm those she loves and to derail her beloved career.
I found this novel a real page turner and I read it in a couple sittings, keen to find out how the story would end. Mel and Natasha are interesting characters, even if not particularly likeable, and the secondary characters are satisfyingly fleshed out. There’s enough description to bring the London, particularly legal London, settings to life. If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that’s an absorbing read, I recommend this one. I think it would also make a good TV drama.
I found this novel a real page turner and I read it in a couple sittings, keen to find out how the story would end. Mel and Natasha are interesting characters, even if not particularly likeable, and the secondary characters are satisfyingly fleshed out. There’s enough description to bring the London, particularly legal London, settings to life. If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that’s an absorbing read, I recommend this one. I think it would also make a good TV drama.
June 4, 2020
Mel is a well known barrister, single mum to Jacob, daughter of a well known actress and the ‘other woman’ for Paul. During the barrister process she is given a ‘pupil’ who follows her around learning but this pupil, Natasha, is something else.
Natasha is simply brilliant and will stop at nothing to be the best. Even if it means exposing secrets, lying, cheating and taking over everything that Mel does.
This was an enjoyable book and I enjoyed the characters and found it quite fast paced and engaging. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Natasha is simply brilliant and will stop at nothing to be the best. Even if it means exposing secrets, lying, cheating and taking over everything that Mel does.
This was an enjoyable book and I enjoyed the characters and found it quite fast paced and engaging. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 8, 2020
4 Stars from me
As a team leader, the absolute best thing you can do is build up the members of your team to the absolute best of their abilities - them succeeding you is the ultimate compliment. Right? But not if the way to pull you down on their way up.
I am so torn with this book as to which character I disliked the most...
Is it wrong to feel a bit sorry for Natasha? And to not particularly like Mel?
Mel's son, Mel's mum, Georgie - all likeable so that was something... not a complete dunking in a book of awful people!
Actually I did feel sorry for Mel but by golly she made some appalling decisions! You'd think a well practised, level-headed lawyer would know better.
The Pupil offers the reader that most delicious of things - a glimpse into someone else's life being destroyed...
As a team leader, the absolute best thing you can do is build up the members of your team to the absolute best of their abilities - them succeeding you is the ultimate compliment. Right? But not if the way to pull you down on their way up.
I am so torn with this book as to which character I disliked the most...
Is it wrong to feel a bit sorry for Natasha? And to not particularly like Mel?
Mel's son, Mel's mum, Georgie - all likeable so that was something... not a complete dunking in a book of awful people!
Actually I did feel sorry for Mel but by golly she made some appalling decisions! You'd think a well practised, level-headed lawyer would know better.
The Pupil offers the reader that most delicious of things - a glimpse into someone else's life being destroyed...
June 21, 2020
Mel has been a lawyer for 20 years. She is successful, well-regarded by her colleagues and her clients are happy with her. But her private life is far from perfect.
When Mel is allocated a trainee lawyer; the young, beautiful, and clever Natasha, Mel's life is about to change.
Natasha is used to getting what she wants, and it quickly turns out that what she wants is to ruin Mel's life.
I was intrigued by the blurb, and therefore excited when my ARC was approved.
The story presents us with both Natasha's and Mel's points of view, but even though a dual perspective is my favorite kind of narration, this book was a huge disappointment.
Sometimes it takes time for a story to grip you, but in this case, it didn't happen at all. I kept waiting for the story to get going, but there was no suspense whatsoever.
Natasha's campaign against Mel seemed not to have been supported by any motive, and her actions were random and rather opportunistic.
The ending was just as bland as the rest of the story.
I rarely give ratings of 1 star, so for a book to warrant such a low rating, it must really not be to my liking.
However, I saw some good reviews of this book, so by all means check it out yourself.
When Mel is allocated a trainee lawyer; the young, beautiful, and clever Natasha, Mel's life is about to change.
Natasha is used to getting what she wants, and it quickly turns out that what she wants is to ruin Mel's life.
I was intrigued by the blurb, and therefore excited when my ARC was approved.
The story presents us with both Natasha's and Mel's points of view, but even though a dual perspective is my favorite kind of narration, this book was a huge disappointment.
Sometimes it takes time for a story to grip you, but in this case, it didn't happen at all. I kept waiting for the story to get going, but there was no suspense whatsoever.
Natasha's campaign against Mel seemed not to have been supported by any motive, and her actions were random and rather opportunistic.
The ending was just as bland as the rest of the story.
I rarely give ratings of 1 star, so for a book to warrant such a low rating, it must really not be to my liking.
However, I saw some good reviews of this book, so by all means check it out yourself.
June 30, 2020
This was an interesting legal type psychological drama and was an entertaining read and one that kept me hooked. Mel has been practising law for many years when she is allocated a trainee pupil Natasha and this comes at a difficult time for Mel, her life is a mess and her new pupil Natasha doesn’t seem to be quite what she seems, full of confidence and endearing herself to everyone she meets it’s just all too much for Mel. What follows is a tale of manipulation and devious tactics as Mel finds her life getting more and more complicated and she begins to see that Natasha is seriously disturbed.
I enjoyed this read it was well written and the characters were good but I was a little disappointed somewhat as I didn’t always connect with the story. A solid three star read that kept me reading and I’m sure that others may enjoy it also.
My thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I enjoyed this read it was well written and the characters were good but I was a little disappointed somewhat as I didn’t always connect with the story. A solid three star read that kept me reading and I’m sure that others may enjoy it also.
My thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 20, 2020
Addictive right from the outset.
Tells the story of a qualified barrister called Mel, whom life is slightly complicated. Then a young pretty pupil is thrust upon her and instantly dislikes her lack of vulnerability. She's way to confident and it throws Mel sideways
As their relationship starts to fall apart even more, Mel's private life is exposed and the even more unusual pupil starts to toy around with her life.
Really well written story and a real page turner.
Thank you to Netgalley for advanced copy
Tells the story of a qualified barrister called Mel, whom life is slightly complicated. Then a young pretty pupil is thrust upon her and instantly dislikes her lack of vulnerability. She's way to confident and it throws Mel sideways
As their relationship starts to fall apart even more, Mel's private life is exposed and the even more unusual pupil starts to toy around with her life.
Really well written story and a real page turner.
Thank you to Netgalley for advanced copy
February 24, 2022
The 1 is just for show.
Read 20 chapters but then DNF'ED it because the thought of Natasha "shivering with pleasure" at the sight of a 16 year old boys body grossed me out and I had to stop reading this.
I was generally very slow and I thought it was going to pick up but by the sounds of other people's reviews it doesn't pick up and doesn't really have an actual story.
The blurb sounded pretty interesting when I brought it from the works and then upon reading it, it was a let down. Shame because I was in the mood with reading books about lawyers considering I've been playing Ace Attorney.
Read 20 chapters but then DNF'ED it because the thought of Natasha "shivering with pleasure" at the sight of a 16 year old boys body grossed me out and I had to stop reading this.
I was generally very slow and I thought it was going to pick up but by the sounds of other people's reviews it doesn't pick up and doesn't really have an actual story.
The blurb sounded pretty interesting when I brought it from the works and then upon reading it, it was a let down. Shame because I was in the mood with reading books about lawyers considering I've been playing Ace Attorney.
December 6, 2020
The pupil is centred around two Min characters Mel a well known high flying barrister in London and Natasha who finds herself completing her pupillage under Mel. The two women don't seem to click from the get go things are fast to unravel when Mel leaves the office with her desktop still logged on and Natasha comes across emails she is more than happy to use against her. Mel is convinced there's something not right about Natasha and after an incident things start to spiral for both women.
When I started reading this book I was expecting a thriller however this is not a thriller at all. That didn't negate from my enjoyment of rhis book. I found the psychological element of this book very interesting as both women are on two separate journeys both which make them re evaluate their lives. Yet we aren't privy to what they decide.
Both female protagonists are great strong women on the one hand but also have there fair share of issues. I found the comparison of upbringing written extremely well the assumptions we hold as individuals might not be quite as true as we had thought. Yet neither of these women give each other the time of day to learn why.
Natasha is painted in quite a negative light however she clearly has unresolved or untreated mental health issues this is pretty clear from the get go. Whereas Mel seems to have her own issues but she appears to be extremely high function.
The book takes a through a trail and it is written so well. As someone who studied law and once wanted to be a barrister myself, I found it fascinating and really well researched. There is alot of legal speak dotted throughout the book some explained others not, however if you are unaware of what it means it will not make a difference as a reader
Another topic that is covered well but repeated is type 1 diabetes as this is something Natasha suffers from. As a reader I learnt alot and I found it very interesting but some things about it were repeated several times however I believe the author is putting us in the shows of a diabetic.
The pupil is very easy to read as it has short chapters and each chapter is narrated by one of the women. I think this really added to the book because of how it progresses we are given a view into each women's world but yet we skip days sometimes weeks but it didn't feel like we missed them.
I enjoyed reading the pupil and I would recommend to anyone who likes a crime book or something that makes you think. Like I said its not a thriller although there is a build up. The ending was good didn't feel that the story could go much further. Plus the side characters like Isabelle, Jacob Georgie and Luke all added something to the story and brought depth with their characters. Happy to rate 3/5 stars for this book.
Thank you to netgalley, the author and publisher for the digital advance copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
When I started reading this book I was expecting a thriller however this is not a thriller at all. That didn't negate from my enjoyment of rhis book. I found the psychological element of this book very interesting as both women are on two separate journeys both which make them re evaluate their lives. Yet we aren't privy to what they decide.
Both female protagonists are great strong women on the one hand but also have there fair share of issues. I found the comparison of upbringing written extremely well the assumptions we hold as individuals might not be quite as true as we had thought. Yet neither of these women give each other the time of day to learn why.
Natasha is painted in quite a negative light however she clearly has unresolved or untreated mental health issues this is pretty clear from the get go. Whereas Mel seems to have her own issues but she appears to be extremely high function.
The book takes a through a trail and it is written so well. As someone who studied law and once wanted to be a barrister myself, I found it fascinating and really well researched. There is alot of legal speak dotted throughout the book some explained others not, however if you are unaware of what it means it will not make a difference as a reader
Another topic that is covered well but repeated is type 1 diabetes as this is something Natasha suffers from. As a reader I learnt alot and I found it very interesting but some things about it were repeated several times however I believe the author is putting us in the shows of a diabetic.
The pupil is very easy to read as it has short chapters and each chapter is narrated by one of the women. I think this really added to the book because of how it progresses we are given a view into each women's world but yet we skip days sometimes weeks but it didn't feel like we missed them.
I enjoyed reading the pupil and I would recommend to anyone who likes a crime book or something that makes you think. Like I said its not a thriller although there is a build up. The ending was good didn't feel that the story could go much further. Plus the side characters like Isabelle, Jacob Georgie and Luke all added something to the story and brought depth with their characters. Happy to rate 3/5 stars for this book.
Thank you to netgalley, the author and publisher for the digital advance copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
January 4, 2025
Choose your evil one.
Two unlikable women but they exist in this world. I read this against the ratings because I liked the work setup and the contrast of their characters and profession.
I should say I worked in a similar place and people. Here's a person who's great at her work and being a mom, but making bad decisions. Then another person who's simply a psycho. Believe me they are real people I happen to have encountered.
I didn't devour this book at once. In fact, it's a slow read for me. But the storytelling is good. I liked how it ended with a case where both were subjects of it. The build up was smooth and the examinations are realistic. It wasnt so tough but I could feel the anxiety the tension. I was team Melanie at the onset. I find her more humane. She didn't hurt people deliberately. She was a normal bitch. Natasha was simply sinister. She had a bad mind all along. She's a typically brilliant villain whose very purpose is to be deviant. I liked how the author wrote their self-justifications without being patroizing. You'd have a feeling that they are that by nature because that's how life raised them.
Although it ended without any closure with Natasha, I really don't want to know. Although I might want to read a sequel about her surviving her own slump.
Strangely I can see this novel in a movie with an actor in mind for Natasha. I could see Anya Taylor-Joy in this role.
This is the first book I put tabs on and annotated. Now my copy is like a diary of reflections.
Two unlikable women but they exist in this world. I read this against the ratings because I liked the work setup and the contrast of their characters and profession.
I should say I worked in a similar place and people. Here's a person who's great at her work and being a mom, but making bad decisions. Then another person who's simply a psycho. Believe me they are real people I happen to have encountered.
I didn't devour this book at once. In fact, it's a slow read for me. But the storytelling is good. I liked how it ended with a case where both were subjects of it. The build up was smooth and the examinations are realistic. It wasnt so tough but I could feel the anxiety the tension. I was team Melanie at the onset. I find her more humane. She didn't hurt people deliberately. She was a normal bitch. Natasha was simply sinister. She had a bad mind all along. She's a typically brilliant villain whose very purpose is to be deviant. I liked how the author wrote their self-justifications without being patroizing. You'd have a feeling that they are that by nature because that's how life raised them.
Although it ended without any closure with Natasha, I really don't want to know. Although I might want to read a sequel about her surviving her own slump.
Strangely I can see this novel in a movie with an actor in mind for Natasha. I could see Anya Taylor-Joy in this role.
This is the first book I put tabs on and annotated. Now my copy is like a diary of reflections.
August 23, 2020
The Pupil by Ros Carne is a pyschological thriller that has a sinister side to it as well. Mel has been a lawyer for twenty years. She is a successful one at that! Her personal life is the the total opposite of her professional one. Mel is allocated a trainee lawyer, Natasha, which, Mel feels she has no time to do and has nothing against Natasha but just doesn't want the responsibility. Everyone in chambers thinks Natasha is an excellent example of a trainee for their future, but, Mel, starts to think differently. She sees that Natasha is not the person everyone thinks she is. The question is, why? Is Mel jealous? Paranoid? Or is it just that she can see see the truth?
This story is told with dual perspectives so we see the story unfold and are shown the differing views. I got into this story immediately and couldn't wait to find out which of the two main quite unpleasant characters would come of the worst. Mel, is such a successful barrister but her other decisions in life leave an awful lot to be desired. Her son and mother are at least more likeable and we see the results of Mel's decisions, and how they have impacted the family. This is truly a story of downfall, but whose and how?
Many thanks to Canelo and Damp Pebbles Blog Tours for my inclusion in the Blog Tour today and the copy of the book.
This story is told with dual perspectives so we see the story unfold and are shown the differing views. I got into this story immediately and couldn't wait to find out which of the two main quite unpleasant characters would come of the worst. Mel, is such a successful barrister but her other decisions in life leave an awful lot to be desired. Her son and mother are at least more likeable and we see the results of Mel's decisions, and how they have impacted the family. This is truly a story of downfall, but whose and how?
Many thanks to Canelo and Damp Pebbles Blog Tours for my inclusion in the Blog Tour today and the copy of the book.
June 13, 2025
The Pupil is a quick and easy read too while away the hours during lockdown. It is a gripping suspenseful drama that drew me in instantly with its striking cover and intriguing plot.
Ros has crafted a thrilling story that gives off a single white female vibe, that sees Mel the target of Natasha’s mind games and manipulation in her quest to take Mel down and ruin her life.
The story is told over two parts and the narration alternates between Mel and Natasha’s points of view. As the story progresses, the tension and suspense is ramped up, as does its sinister tone.
The characters are very believable in their roles and although I can’t say I was a fan of either Mel or Natasha, they are interesting characters. Ros has done a good job with them and they have been well developed.
This is my first book from Ros and I really liked her style. She was able to keep my attention and kept me wanting to turn the pages to see how it would all unfold. I will be on the lookout for more of her work in the future.
All up The Pupil is a solid and enjoyable read and although it does lack a WOW factor ending, it still works. If you are a fan of the suspense drama genre, it is worth you giving this a read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Ros Carne for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Pupil which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Ros has crafted a thrilling story that gives off a single white female vibe, that sees Mel the target of Natasha’s mind games and manipulation in her quest to take Mel down and ruin her life.
The story is told over two parts and the narration alternates between Mel and Natasha’s points of view. As the story progresses, the tension and suspense is ramped up, as does its sinister tone.
The characters are very believable in their roles and although I can’t say I was a fan of either Mel or Natasha, they are interesting characters. Ros has done a good job with them and they have been well developed.
This is my first book from Ros and I really liked her style. She was able to keep my attention and kept me wanting to turn the pages to see how it would all unfold. I will be on the lookout for more of her work in the future.
All up The Pupil is a solid and enjoyable read and although it does lack a WOW factor ending, it still works. If you are a fan of the suspense drama genre, it is worth you giving this a read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Canelo and Ros Carne for allowing me to read an advanced copy of The Pupil which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 2, 2020
Ros Carne's novel, The Pupil, just published in August, is a great read. Set in London, it tells the story of barrister Mel, whose life is in the throws of multiple complication, and an unwelcome pupil, Natasha, whom Mel has been assigned to mentor. Natasha is ambitious, resentful of Mel and focused on inflicting damage.
Both women claimed my sympathy as the story unfolded, and I found myself taking sides, then switching sides, as both characters commanded empathy at various plot points. The plotting is strong, original, and successfully animated by a colourful cast of minor characters who are deeply London specific.
The Pupil captures the streetscapes, parks and smells of London, using the settings evocatively to illuminate the story. Additionally the novel provides interesting details about the legal work of a London barrister and how the profession functions. The author worked as a barrister in London for many years, so the conversations in chambers and court are super convincing, and clearly way better than a few weeks of research could have provided.
I recommend this novel as gripping, and utterly charming.
Both women claimed my sympathy as the story unfolded, and I found myself taking sides, then switching sides, as both characters commanded empathy at various plot points. The plotting is strong, original, and successfully animated by a colourful cast of minor characters who are deeply London specific.
The Pupil captures the streetscapes, parks and smells of London, using the settings evocatively to illuminate the story. Additionally the novel provides interesting details about the legal work of a London barrister and how the profession functions. The author worked as a barrister in London for many years, so the conversations in chambers and court are super convincing, and clearly way better than a few weeks of research could have provided.
I recommend this novel as gripping, and utterly charming.
April 9, 2024
This book wasn't what I expected. I wanted to read this book because it was advertised as a "suspenseful thriller," but it turned out to be nothing of the sort. In my opinion, it was only suspenseful in a couple of brief moments, and it definitely was not a thriller. There were no shocking twists, no true edge-of-your-seat moments.
I think this could be better described as a legal drama. If it had been advertised as that from the get-go, I may have enjoyed it more because - excluding the expectation of a gripping thriller - the story itself was good. It was interesting, and while it didn't have me hooked and riveted the way I was hoping, it did have me wanting to see how it would end.
Overall, this book just felt a bit flat. It was incredibly slow. However, once I resigned myself to the fact that I wasn't reading the fast-paced thriller I was hoping for, I did enjoy reading this book to some extent, and by the end, I didn't feel like I'd wasted my time. None of the characters were likeable, yet I was still interested in them and what would happen to them.
It was a good story in the end. Not amazing, but still a decent read.
I think this could be better described as a legal drama. If it had been advertised as that from the get-go, I may have enjoyed it more because - excluding the expectation of a gripping thriller - the story itself was good. It was interesting, and while it didn't have me hooked and riveted the way I was hoping, it did have me wanting to see how it would end.
Overall, this book just felt a bit flat. It was incredibly slow. However, once I resigned myself to the fact that I wasn't reading the fast-paced thriller I was hoping for, I did enjoy reading this book to some extent, and by the end, I didn't feel like I'd wasted my time. None of the characters were likeable, yet I was still interested in them and what would happen to them.
It was a good story in the end. Not amazing, but still a decent read.
November 21, 2020
The story started really well, and promised something dark and edgy, yet it never got to the point that I expected. While this may be a good thing, and we can't all have what we want, I was anticipating something far grittier than the actual outcome. The 2 main characters, Mel and Natasha, are not people who can be liked. Neither did the right thing, and neither grabbed the emotion of the reader. It is actually quite disappointing that a book with 2 female characters as it's main focal point should have a story were the male parts are the most liekable and reliable.
Ros Carne writes well, and the story has great pace and does indeed, as the cover details, become a page-turner. Yet the other tagline, 'She's here to learn your darkest secrets' suggests a story more horrifying or pyschological, and it never really hits those depths.
I read and enjoyed, not liking the either Mel or Natasha throughout, but ultimately finished with some level of disappointment that this could have gone far deeper into their emotions, and be far grittier.
Ros Carne writes well, and the story has great pace and does indeed, as the cover details, become a page-turner. Yet the other tagline, 'She's here to learn your darkest secrets' suggests a story more horrifying or pyschological, and it never really hits those depths.
I read and enjoyed, not liking the either Mel or Natasha throughout, but ultimately finished with some level of disappointment that this could have gone far deeper into their emotions, and be far grittier.
May 27, 2020
A very good legal drama/ thriller by Ros Carne.
Mel is a barrister who has been practising for over twenty years. When she is assigned Natasha as her new pupil, she sees it as a real inconvenience. She has nothing against Natasha, but does not want want the responsibility of training a pupil. However, it soon becomes personal when she discovers that Natasha is not what she seems. Everyone in chambers thinks that Natasha is perfect and will be a good fit to become a tenant in chambers, but Mel knows otherwise. Natasha is anything but perfect.
Is Mel right about Natasha and everyone else wrong? Is Mel paranoid because Natasha is younger and a good barrister? Will Natasha be able to prove herself? Will Mel be able to gather evidence against Natasha? Will the truth be revealed as to whether it is Natasha or Mel who is in the wrong?
A great and easy read.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Mel is a barrister who has been practising for over twenty years. When she is assigned Natasha as her new pupil, she sees it as a real inconvenience. She has nothing against Natasha, but does not want want the responsibility of training a pupil. However, it soon becomes personal when she discovers that Natasha is not what she seems. Everyone in chambers thinks that Natasha is perfect and will be a good fit to become a tenant in chambers, but Mel knows otherwise. Natasha is anything but perfect.
Is Mel right about Natasha and everyone else wrong? Is Mel paranoid because Natasha is younger and a good barrister? Will Natasha be able to prove herself? Will Mel be able to gather evidence against Natasha? Will the truth be revealed as to whether it is Natasha or Mel who is in the wrong?
A great and easy read.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2025
An interesting insight into the legal system from the point of view of the lawyer.
The main characters are Mel, qualified lawyer in practice for around 20 years who lives with her teenage son having separated from his father many years ago. The other is Natasha, who is assigned as a ‘pupil’ to Mel who will mentor her through part of her training.
Unfortunately the two don’t get on together and so begins the game Natasha plays to cause disruption in Mel’s life; trying to bring to light minor oversights in her work, ‘grooming’ her son who is aware of their connection, outing her affair with a married man and wheedling her way into the life of her mother who lives alone.
Things get more serious when Natasha receives an injury in Mel’s presence which starts a personal court case.
The first half of the book is quite slow but build the storyline; however the second half is far more exciting with the ending not as expected.
The main characters are Mel, qualified lawyer in practice for around 20 years who lives with her teenage son having separated from his father many years ago. The other is Natasha, who is assigned as a ‘pupil’ to Mel who will mentor her through part of her training.
Unfortunately the two don’t get on together and so begins the game Natasha plays to cause disruption in Mel’s life; trying to bring to light minor oversights in her work, ‘grooming’ her son who is aware of their connection, outing her affair with a married man and wheedling her way into the life of her mother who lives alone.
Things get more serious when Natasha receives an injury in Mel’s presence which starts a personal court case.
The first half of the book is quite slow but build the storyline; however the second half is far more exciting with the ending not as expected.
August 1, 2024
Excellent book, the story is gripping and I particularly enjoyed the relatability of the main characters to real life situations. We all know someone who could be a little bit Natasha, or a mother like Mel. Carne’s ability to describe a character is fantastic, and I appreciated the nuanced character information that although didn’t always add to the plot, added to the understanding of the character and the readers relationship with them.
I often am one to leave a book un-finished yet The Pupil was one of the first times I’ve read a book with such a strong sense of anticipation, interest and eagerness as if the characters outcomes depended on you.
I pray for my friends and family who will have to hear me plead for them to read this book too!!
I often am one to leave a book un-finished yet The Pupil was one of the first times I’ve read a book with such a strong sense of anticipation, interest and eagerness as if the characters outcomes depended on you.
I pray for my friends and family who will have to hear me plead for them to read this book too!!
March 10, 2021
I would firstly like to thank Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this book. It has been getting some excellent reviews, so I has expected it to enjoy it a LOT more than I did. Maybe I missed something?... but, while the premise was certainly intriguing to begin with, the novel just didn't deliver.
The story was just far too dragged out, the characters were very unlikeable and ending didn't spark any satisfaction in me at all. It had the potential to be a decent story, but it was very poorly executed. A book I wish I didn't bother with.
I really wanted to like this book. It has been getting some excellent reviews, so I has expected it to enjoy it a LOT more than I did. Maybe I missed something?... but, while the premise was certainly intriguing to begin with, the novel just didn't deliver.
The story was just far too dragged out, the characters were very unlikeable and ending didn't spark any satisfaction in me at all. It had the potential to be a decent story, but it was very poorly executed. A book I wish I didn't bother with.
August 11, 2020
The Pupil is a first rate psychological thriller with a believable cast of characters, all of whom are hiding secrets - just some are more deadly than others.
Mel has been a barrister for 20 years. She is clever and successful but her private life is a bit of a mess. Divorced from Claude, the father of her moody 16-year old son Jacob, she feels she is drifting away from him and doesn't know how to put it right. She is also having an affair with lecturer Paul Freedman but she knows he is never going to leave his wife so is on a hiding to nowhere.
Then along comes Natasha. Mel takes her on as her 'pupil' but has no idea what trouble it's going to cause. Natasha is a complex character and a not very likeable one. At 30 years old she is more mature than the usual pupils taken on at Chambers and confidently barges ahead, often upsetting Mel who thinks she is being too forward and disrespectful of her position. Natasha lives with Luke who adores her (not sure why), but her behaviour is very erratic. She has an interesting hobby but it's not knitting or salsa dancing - it's shoplifting. She got caught once and promised Luke she wouldn't do it again, but she does, regularly.
She has another secret hobby and this one is really creepy. She has an alter-ego - Lola - who decides to stalk Mel's son Jacob by pretending to be 20 years old and becoming friends on Facebook. Jacob has no idea who she is and things get a bit, shall we say, hot. It's a secret Jacob has to keep from his mum as it's all rather inappropriate and seedy.
Next on Natasha's hit list is Mel's glamorous mum Isabel, who used to be in a famous TV show and was quite the style icon. Natasha just happens to have been her biggest fan.
I think the worst thing about Natasha is that she doesn't think she's doing anything wrong. I think for her everyone is fair game and that's what it is really - just a game. But we know things are going to turn sour and start to get really nasty. It's often a slow burn but you will be hooked from page one.
Many thanks to @damppebbles for inviting me to part of #damppebblesblogtours
Mel has been a barrister for 20 years. She is clever and successful but her private life is a bit of a mess. Divorced from Claude, the father of her moody 16-year old son Jacob, she feels she is drifting away from him and doesn't know how to put it right. She is also having an affair with lecturer Paul Freedman but she knows he is never going to leave his wife so is on a hiding to nowhere.
Then along comes Natasha. Mel takes her on as her 'pupil' but has no idea what trouble it's going to cause. Natasha is a complex character and a not very likeable one. At 30 years old she is more mature than the usual pupils taken on at Chambers and confidently barges ahead, often upsetting Mel who thinks she is being too forward and disrespectful of her position. Natasha lives with Luke who adores her (not sure why), but her behaviour is very erratic. She has an interesting hobby but it's not knitting or salsa dancing - it's shoplifting. She got caught once and promised Luke she wouldn't do it again, but she does, regularly.
She has another secret hobby and this one is really creepy. She has an alter-ego - Lola - who decides to stalk Mel's son Jacob by pretending to be 20 years old and becoming friends on Facebook. Jacob has no idea who she is and things get a bit, shall we say, hot. It's a secret Jacob has to keep from his mum as it's all rather inappropriate and seedy.
Next on Natasha's hit list is Mel's glamorous mum Isabel, who used to be in a famous TV show and was quite the style icon. Natasha just happens to have been her biggest fan.
I think the worst thing about Natasha is that she doesn't think she's doing anything wrong. I think for her everyone is fair game and that's what it is really - just a game. But we know things are going to turn sour and start to get really nasty. It's often a slow burn but you will be hooked from page one.
Many thanks to @damppebbles for inviting me to part of #damppebblesblogtours
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