What do you think?
Rate this book
The Affair
Connie McCabe longs for the summer where she spends the days leading tours across the continent. But it's on the glamourous shores of Lake Como where she is truly swept away after a much younger man named Jared, falls for her. Despite resisting his advances Connie finds that he's got under her skin. And so begins a long, hot, intoxicating summer where Connie succumbs and breaks her marriage vows. At the end of the season Connie returns home to her husband, wanting to put this affair behind her. But Jared has other ideas. . .
416 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 1971
84 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Hilary Boyd
40 books132 followersBoyd was born and spent the first six months of her life in Prestatyn, North Wales, where her father, an army major, was stationed after the war. She was later educated in London, then at the boarding school Roedean. She trained as a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, and subsequently as a marriage guidance counsellor with Relate before reading English Literature at London University in her late 30s.
After college, Boyd became a health journalist, writing about depression, step-parenting and pregnancy. She began writing fiction as a hobby whilst raising three children and working at various day jobs including running a cancer charity, Survive Cancer, working for an engineering company, and an online vitamin site.
After college, Boyd became a health journalist, writing about depression, step-parenting and pregnancy. She began writing fiction as a hobby whilst raising three children and working at various day jobs including running a cancer charity, Survive Cancer, working for an engineering company, and an online vitamin site.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
August 25, 2021
EXCERPT: The silence in the car was profound, as if she'd suddenly gone deaf.
'Are you completely out of your mind?' she whispered, all strength gone from her body.
With a puzzled frown, he leaned over and put both his hands firmly on her crossed forearms, staring intently into her eyes. 'You look terrified, Connie.' He drew back a bit. 'Oh,my God . . . you're not worried about your husband finding out about us, are you?' He sighed. 'You know I'd never betray you. I will never tell a living soul what happened between us, not in a million years.' He smiled his gentle smile. 'I just want to be near you.'
ABOUT 'THE AFFAIR': Connie McCabe longs for the summer where she spends the days leading tours across the continent.
But it's on the glamorous shores of Lake Como where she is truly swept away, when Jared, a much younger man, falls for her.
Despite resisting his advances, Connie finds that he's got under her skin.
And so begins a long, hot, intoxicating summer where Connie succumbs to temptation - breaking her marriage vows.
At the end of the season, Connie returns home to her husband, ready to put this affair behind her.
MY THOUGHTS: Hilary Boyd writes about how easy it is to make a wrong decision when vulnerable. Decisions, actions and consequences are the theme of The Affair.
Connie is an extremely relatable character. Who amongst us has never felt unappreciated, has never wondered if their significant other may have fallen out of love, be bored by them. Who has never felt exasperated by their partner, lost patience with them? Whose marriage has never gone through a rough patch, where you seem to have lost your connection, to be moving in different directions? We'd all like to think that it would never happen to us, but chances are it has, or it will.
Devan, Connie's husband is a retired G.P. who, now he doesn't have a purpose in his life, is feeling lost and resentful towards his wife who continues, despite his pleas for her to retire with him, with the job she loves.
Jared is a younger man dancing attendance on his elderly godmother on one of Connie's tours. One evening, he kisses her . . . and Connie's life will never be the same.
The Affair is a great cautionary tale, one everyone should read, because what happens after?
Hilary Boyd has written a story that begins as a small meandering stream which gathers power and develops into a raging torrent, one that swept me off my feet.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#TheAffair #NetGalley
I: @hilaryboyd3837 @michaeljbooks
T: @HilaryBoyd @MichaelJBooks
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #mentalhealth #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Boyd was born and spent the first six months of her life in Prestatyn, North Wales, where her father, an army major, was stationed after the war. She was later educated in London, then at the boarding school Roedean. She trained as a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, and subsequently as a marriage guidance counsellor with Relate before reading English Literature at London University in her late 30s.
After college, Boyd became a health journalist, writing about depression, step-parenting and pregnancy. She began writing fiction as a hobby whilst raising three children and working at various day jobs including running a cancer charity, Survive Cancer, working for an engineering company, and an online vitamin site.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Penguin, Michael Joseph via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Affair by Hilary Boyd for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Are you completely out of your mind?' she whispered, all strength gone from her body.
With a puzzled frown, he leaned over and put both his hands firmly on her crossed forearms, staring intently into her eyes. 'You look terrified, Connie.' He drew back a bit. 'Oh,my God . . . you're not worried about your husband finding out about us, are you?' He sighed. 'You know I'd never betray you. I will never tell a living soul what happened between us, not in a million years.' He smiled his gentle smile. 'I just want to be near you.'
ABOUT 'THE AFFAIR': Connie McCabe longs for the summer where she spends the days leading tours across the continent.
But it's on the glamorous shores of Lake Como where she is truly swept away, when Jared, a much younger man, falls for her.
Despite resisting his advances, Connie finds that he's got under her skin.
And so begins a long, hot, intoxicating summer where Connie succumbs to temptation - breaking her marriage vows.
At the end of the season, Connie returns home to her husband, ready to put this affair behind her.
MY THOUGHTS: Hilary Boyd writes about how easy it is to make a wrong decision when vulnerable. Decisions, actions and consequences are the theme of The Affair.
Connie is an extremely relatable character. Who amongst us has never felt unappreciated, has never wondered if their significant other may have fallen out of love, be bored by them. Who has never felt exasperated by their partner, lost patience with them? Whose marriage has never gone through a rough patch, where you seem to have lost your connection, to be moving in different directions? We'd all like to think that it would never happen to us, but chances are it has, or it will.
Devan, Connie's husband is a retired G.P. who, now he doesn't have a purpose in his life, is feeling lost and resentful towards his wife who continues, despite his pleas for her to retire with him, with the job she loves.
Jared is a younger man dancing attendance on his elderly godmother on one of Connie's tours. One evening, he kisses her . . . and Connie's life will never be the same.
The Affair is a great cautionary tale, one everyone should read, because what happens after?
Hilary Boyd has written a story that begins as a small meandering stream which gathers power and develops into a raging torrent, one that swept me off my feet.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#TheAffair #NetGalley
I: @hilaryboyd3837 @michaeljbooks
T: @HilaryBoyd @MichaelJBooks
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #mentalhealth #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Boyd was born and spent the first six months of her life in Prestatyn, North Wales, where her father, an army major, was stationed after the war. She was later educated in London, then at the boarding school Roedean. She trained as a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, and subsequently as a marriage guidance counsellor with Relate before reading English Literature at London University in her late 30s.
After college, Boyd became a health journalist, writing about depression, step-parenting and pregnancy. She began writing fiction as a hobby whilst raising three children and working at various day jobs including running a cancer charity, Survive Cancer, working for an engineering company, and an online vitamin site.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Penguin, Michael Joseph via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Affair by Hilary Boyd for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
April 24, 2021
Connie McCabe is married to retired GP Devan and their relationship is in the doldrums. Devan is in a lethargic slump, it’s like he’s defeated and he almost shuts down with Connie placing their 33 year long marriage under severe strain. Connie works as a tour manager and on a trip to Lake Como she meets Jared Temple who makes it clear he’s attracted to her. What will Connie do?
This is a well written easy to read character driven novel which has the feel of a psychological thriller, capturing the emotions of those involved realistically. You feel the chemistry between Jared and Connie though realise it’s lust not love though what unfolds between them is intense. This is a good portrait of a relationship that has cast adrift and though you don’t condone Connie’s actions you can understand that Devan has been impossible to live with and he places a lot of undue pressure on her. The attraction between Jared and Connie turns to obsession and delusion and it feels suffocating. Connie finally sees things for how they are in reality and recognise that she did not see the obvious warning signs because she is not in a good place. The plot gets more and more twisty, it becomes a bit creepy and sinister raising the hairs on the back of your neck. The conclusion of the book contains a whole host of emotions from sadness to fear as there’s a spectre in the marriage that seems intent on not going away. Some of the drama takes place in beautiful places and it’s wonderful to ‘visit’ them vicariously!!
Overall, a compelling and entertaining read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is a well written easy to read character driven novel which has the feel of a psychological thriller, capturing the emotions of those involved realistically. You feel the chemistry between Jared and Connie though realise it’s lust not love though what unfolds between them is intense. This is a good portrait of a relationship that has cast adrift and though you don’t condone Connie’s actions you can understand that Devan has been impossible to live with and he places a lot of undue pressure on her. The attraction between Jared and Connie turns to obsession and delusion and it feels suffocating. Connie finally sees things for how they are in reality and recognise that she did not see the obvious warning signs because she is not in a good place. The plot gets more and more twisty, it becomes a bit creepy and sinister raising the hairs on the back of your neck. The conclusion of the book contains a whole host of emotions from sadness to fear as there’s a spectre in the marriage that seems intent on not going away. Some of the drama takes place in beautiful places and it’s wonderful to ‘visit’ them vicariously!!
Overall, a compelling and entertaining read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2021
Why did I finish this, you ask? I wouldn’t know. I think I kept waiting for something? A twist to happen? Sadly none came and the ending was anticlimactic.
I came for a holiday affair and I got a monologue from a woman who’s had sex a few times with a weird dude while her husband had a post-retirement depression. I’m afraid the plot was really scatty and slow. The characters didn’t hold much depth, the stalker storyline was far from explored and didn't make much sense. Why did Jared do all this? We knew nothing about him or his motivation.
I really tried to care but alas, this wasn’t the book for me.
Thank you to Netgalley for the free ARC.
I came for a holiday affair and I got a monologue from a woman who’s had sex a few times with a weird dude while her husband had a post-retirement depression. I’m afraid the plot was really scatty and slow. The characters didn’t hold much depth, the stalker storyline was far from explored and didn't make much sense. Why did Jared do all this? We knew nothing about him or his motivation.
I really tried to care but alas, this wasn’t the book for me.
Thank you to Netgalley for the free ARC.
August 16, 2021
The Affair is a compelling story of love, lies and obsession that asks the question, can you ever walk away from an affair unscathed? It is a terrifying psychological thriller that knows how to pull you in and keep you engaged and an enthralling page-turner that maintains the thrill of solving a crime. No doubt, it is an exploration of the depths of friendship, love, revenge and commitment of heart and soul. The beginning of the story moves at a steady pace, but once you get a taste for it, it will keep you up the whole night. An entertaining novel packed with action and ripe with thrills, suspense and twists that will keep you guessing throughout. It is filled with disloyalty, demise, forgiveness and unfolding secrets. An easily readable novel that creates an appealing and mysterious environment that takes you deep into the centre of the story.
August 18, 2021
In The Affair, retired GP Devan McCabe, married to Connie, is struggling to adjust to his slower pace of life. Connie and Devan have led what many would consider a charmed life, but now their marriage is on a downturn whilst Devan tries to cope with his problems including heavy drinking and general apathy. Connie is a European tour manager and goes on a trip taking in Lake Como among other places. Jared is also on the trip and Connie finds him difficult to resist.
I loved this novel; the action builds slowly and details how one misjudgement can have chilling consequences. Hilary Boyd’s writing style is uncomplicated and she is perceptive in her portrayal of flawed human behaviour. Addictive and engrossing, I was carried along in the lives of Connie, Devan and Jared. The pacy tale held my attention throughout with deception and obsession and it was well seasoned with thrills and suspense. If you're looking for a read that delves into the darker aspects of relationships try The Affair.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Penguin Michael Joseph via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I loved this novel; the action builds slowly and details how one misjudgement can have chilling consequences. Hilary Boyd’s writing style is uncomplicated and she is perceptive in her portrayal of flawed human behaviour. Addictive and engrossing, I was carried along in the lives of Connie, Devan and Jared. The pacy tale held my attention throughout with deception and obsession and it was well seasoned with thrills and suspense. If you're looking for a read that delves into the darker aspects of relationships try The Affair.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Penguin Michael Joseph via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 11, 2022
What a great thriller! The story takes us all over the world as Connie, a travel guide experiences some of the most beautiful places with her various groups. That is, until a handsome man named Jared appears with his godmother on one of the tours. What follows is just supposed to be a one off; a kiss, and that's it, but Jared doesn't have any plans on letting Connie go, despite the fact she is married and she spends her time going to far away places. I loved this, it was one of those thrillers you can't read fast enough and I didn't want it to end.
June 21, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. This is the story of a couple nearing retirement and a comfortable marriage that gets unexpectedly rocked. While it possesses the suspense to keep you reading on, this was second to the gentle unfolding and insight into domestic life and the ups and downs of a marriage. I found Connie’s thoughts and emotions to be incredibly interesting, personable, and seemingly genuine in the circumstance of an affair. This book really captured the topic it was exploring and I loved getting into Connie’s mind and motivations, as well as feeling the dread that followed. I got a cosy feeling reading about their charming life in the English village with country pubs. bonfires, dog walks, and trips to the deli. This was a book to be read on the porch on a lazy Sunday afternoon, with a glass of wine and some olives. I was sorry when it was over, I enjoyed it that much. 5 stars.
June 13, 2021
I really wanted to like the book but it was repetitive. I didn't mind that the author took us on a tour around Europe, wined and dined in restaurants, strolled through the streets of Italy, Poland and Scotland.
The characters needed more depth as this book wasn't plot driven. I felt that I'm stuck at the same spot and the story just wasn't going anywhere.
The characters needed more depth as this book wasn't plot driven. I felt that I'm stuck at the same spot and the story just wasn't going anywhere.
March 28, 2021
Deeply creepy tale of obsession, stalking and train travel tours. Refreshing to see an older couple’s relationship being explored.
December 30, 2021
Connie McCabe lives in a village south of the Mendips, with her recently retired GP husband, Devan. Devan isn’t taking retirement well; he’s moody, irritable, drinking far too much and can’t seem to say a civil word to his wife. She’s loath to to give up her job as a tour company guide, where she’s able to visit beautiful places like Lake Como and bury her head in the sand about the state of her marriage. And why on earth would she want to be stuck at home with a husband who is so miserable he can barely communicate?
But it’s while she’s at Lake Como she becomes a lot more involved with one of the passengers on the tour. Jared is charming, mysterious and a fair bit younger than Connie and while she initially tries to resist his advances, eventually she succumbs. Is this the end of her marriage?
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book at first. And I was pleasantly surprised the way the story pretty much gripped me from the off. The author has a talent of making Connie’s actions seem really believable and although her decisions are bad, it’s easy to see where she goes wrong and understand why she does what she does. I raced through this story; I simply couldn’t keep away from it, it was that gripping which is always a good sign.
My first book by Hilary Boyd, but definitely not my last.
But it’s while she’s at Lake Como she becomes a lot more involved with one of the passengers on the tour. Jared is charming, mysterious and a fair bit younger than Connie and while she initially tries to resist his advances, eventually she succumbs. Is this the end of her marriage?
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book at first. And I was pleasantly surprised the way the story pretty much gripped me from the off. The author has a talent of making Connie’s actions seem really believable and although her decisions are bad, it’s easy to see where she goes wrong and understand why she does what she does. I raced through this story; I simply couldn’t keep away from it, it was that gripping which is always a good sign.
My first book by Hilary Boyd, but definitely not my last.
August 3, 2022
An enticing piece by Hilary Boyd on the intricacies of familial relations and the dangers of miscommunication and societal pressures.
Central themes of the novella revolve around limerent love, fuelled by obsession and psychological desires of codependency - as portrayed skilfully by the characterisation of Jared. The emptiness of his social life and pre information of Connie's every move creates a rather psychopathic image of his ambiguous, and outwardly rational persona, indirectly encouraging the reader to evaluate the factors of a healthy, consensual relationship.
As Hilary Boyd herself was a marriage counsellor, I believe that one of her main aims towards the formation of this book was to challenge the sole foundation of our own relationships, whilst also stimulating a receptive response, based on our individualised conscience.
The reason why I gave this book 4 stars is partially due to the ending which I deemed as rather dull, abding to the classical 'happily ever after' structure. Despite this, I do acknowledge that the novella explored the limitations of true love, and in the end forgiveness alongside true endearment won - an ending preferred by many.
Yet I believe a modernised alternative could've been implemented, in which an affair is seen as a solution rather than a problem. A perfect example of such an ending is seen in 'Conversations with Friends' by Sally Rooney where the outdated perception of an affair as negative and destructive is exchanged for a more receptive one, one which should be more common in 21st century literature.
Central themes of the novella revolve around limerent love, fuelled by obsession and psychological desires of codependency - as portrayed skilfully by the characterisation of Jared. The emptiness of his social life and pre information of Connie's every move creates a rather psychopathic image of his ambiguous, and outwardly rational persona, indirectly encouraging the reader to evaluate the factors of a healthy, consensual relationship.
As Hilary Boyd herself was a marriage counsellor, I believe that one of her main aims towards the formation of this book was to challenge the sole foundation of our own relationships, whilst also stimulating a receptive response, based on our individualised conscience.
The reason why I gave this book 4 stars is partially due to the ending which I deemed as rather dull, abding to the classical 'happily ever after' structure. Despite this, I do acknowledge that the novella explored the limitations of true love, and in the end forgiveness alongside true endearment won - an ending preferred by many.
Yet I believe a modernised alternative could've been implemented, in which an affair is seen as a solution rather than a problem. A perfect example of such an ending is seen in 'Conversations with Friends' by Sally Rooney where the outdated perception of an affair as negative and destructive is exchanged for a more receptive one, one which should be more common in 21st century literature.
August 8, 2021
Ive been a fan of Hilary Boyd’s books and I really enjoyed this latest one. Her understanding of the obstacles middle aged people encounter are so real and relatable.
When I started the novel I was sure I knew which character was going to have an affair, but I was surprised when I was completely off the mark. The story revolves around Connie and her husband Devan. Connie works as a tour guide and Devan is struggling to come to terms with retirement after having a busy career as the local GP.
Without giving away the plot, one of the characters embarks on an affair which not only threatens to destroy their marriage but also their sanity as the affair partner becomes obsessed with them to the point of infiltrating their life.
The consequences of an affair are far reaching and I think this was explored well in the book, how it not only affects those involved but the wider family and friends as well.
This book was an enjoyable read for me and I was surprised at the ending. Maybe one to read if you are tempted by the greener grass. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this book.
When I started the novel I was sure I knew which character was going to have an affair, but I was surprised when I was completely off the mark. The story revolves around Connie and her husband Devan. Connie works as a tour guide and Devan is struggling to come to terms with retirement after having a busy career as the local GP.
Without giving away the plot, one of the characters embarks on an affair which not only threatens to destroy their marriage but also their sanity as the affair partner becomes obsessed with them to the point of infiltrating their life.
The consequences of an affair are far reaching and I think this was explored well in the book, how it not only affects those involved but the wider family and friends as well.
This book was an enjoyable read for me and I was surprised at the ending. Maybe one to read if you are tempted by the greener grass. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my chance to read this book.
August 14, 2021
Connie McCabe is a tour manager, travelling via train to different places in Europe. She’s married to Devan, a GP that recently retired. While before they didn’t have much time to spend together, now, with Devon all the time staying at home and hinting Connie should retire as well, not everything is rosy in McCabe’c household. Connie feels abandoned and lonely in her marriage, when Devan chooses to spend his time on his mobile phone, avoiding closeness and intimacy with his wife. And then, during one of her trips, Connie meets Jared who doesn’t hide the fact he’s interested in her. It’s hardly surprising that she’s flattered, right? Could there be something more between them? Is Connie going to risk her marriage for an affair? Is Jared who he says he is?
I think the fact that the author took us on a tour around Europe was only an added bonus. It took us a bit away from the main plot, however it also emphasised the fact that Jared was, actually, stalking Connie, and oh my, it annoyed me so much that Connie didn’t see what I’ve seen, that it took her so long to realise what I’ve realised so quickly. But back to travelling around Europe – I think it is a perfect job, it sounded interesting, however Connie was probably lucky with pretty uncomplicated tourists. I liked the fact that, next to such popular destination as Italy, Holland and Scotland, the author took us on a journey to Poland – I was in Ausschwitz. I know how the characterst felt.
There was a bunch of characters in the story, however I felt they need more depth, that they lacked a bit in development, that they were introduced to us and then stayed on the same level, without changing, without moving forward. Nevertheless, the author captured a very good picture of a relationship, she has executed it really, really well, leaving us a space for our own opinions and thoughts, giving us time to actually appreciate the differences and opposing views of Connie and Devan. I must admit that I felt more sympathy to Connie, Devan came too late with his sudden changing mind and desperation to spend quality time with his wife.
I missed Jared’s point of view in this all, I think. I’m also truly not sure about the whole stalking storyline, it seemed underdeveloped and so half heartedly done, not explored. He was such a significant character in this story yet it felt as if he was not there and absolutely not convincing – I’d love to know what has made him tick, what was his motivation.
Hilary Boyd explores here a long term marriage, one that had been together through thick and thin, where the couple started to feel too comfortable and, in the end, there is no more romance. I liked how she didn’t judge the characters, she didn’t blame them, she only showed how it truly is, in real life. She is a good observer, Hilary Boyd, and the actions and reactions of the characters ring a bell, seem true to life and are entirely realistic. However, the book itself felt slow, repetitive and not as tense as I thought it’s going to be. There were no life changing twists and what pained me so much was the fact that the story wasn’t going anywhere. But it was written in a lovely, uncomplicated, approachable and chatty way and felt close to life.
Altogether, it was an interesting story, easy to follow, written in a very good way. I wouldn’t call it a psychological thriller, it was more of a domestic dark noir and the author really nails all the feelings and emotions and family dynamics.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
I think the fact that the author took us on a tour around Europe was only an added bonus. It took us a bit away from the main plot, however it also emphasised the fact that Jared was, actually, stalking Connie, and oh my, it annoyed me so much that Connie didn’t see what I’ve seen, that it took her so long to realise what I’ve realised so quickly. But back to travelling around Europe – I think it is a perfect job, it sounded interesting, however Connie was probably lucky with pretty uncomplicated tourists. I liked the fact that, next to such popular destination as Italy, Holland and Scotland, the author took us on a journey to Poland – I was in Ausschwitz. I know how the characterst felt.
There was a bunch of characters in the story, however I felt they need more depth, that they lacked a bit in development, that they were introduced to us and then stayed on the same level, without changing, without moving forward. Nevertheless, the author captured a very good picture of a relationship, she has executed it really, really well, leaving us a space for our own opinions and thoughts, giving us time to actually appreciate the differences and opposing views of Connie and Devan. I must admit that I felt more sympathy to Connie, Devan came too late with his sudden changing mind and desperation to spend quality time with his wife.
I missed Jared’s point of view in this all, I think. I’m also truly not sure about the whole stalking storyline, it seemed underdeveloped and so half heartedly done, not explored. He was such a significant character in this story yet it felt as if he was not there and absolutely not convincing – I’d love to know what has made him tick, what was his motivation.
Hilary Boyd explores here a long term marriage, one that had been together through thick and thin, where the couple started to feel too comfortable and, in the end, there is no more romance. I liked how she didn’t judge the characters, she didn’t blame them, she only showed how it truly is, in real life. She is a good observer, Hilary Boyd, and the actions and reactions of the characters ring a bell, seem true to life and are entirely realistic. However, the book itself felt slow, repetitive and not as tense as I thought it’s going to be. There were no life changing twists and what pained me so much was the fact that the story wasn’t going anywhere. But it was written in a lovely, uncomplicated, approachable and chatty way and felt close to life.
Altogether, it was an interesting story, easy to follow, written in a very good way. I wouldn’t call it a psychological thriller, it was more of a domestic dark noir and the author really nails all the feelings and emotions and family dynamics.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 10, 2021
As I’m a woman in her early 50’s this book gave me hope. 😂
Connie is a much older lady, still working, still getting dressed up, still attracting men.
A story of an obsessive affair. I loved it.
Connie is a much older lady, still working, still getting dressed up, still attracting men.
A story of an obsessive affair. I loved it.
August 18, 2021
Connie McCabe is married to GP Devan and she works during the summer months as a guide, conducting tours across Europe. Connie’s marriage to Devan has gone a bit stale, and when he struggles with adapting to retirement, she seeks solace in her time away from home.
On the shores of Lake Como she is swept off her feet by Jared, a younger man who is on a tour with his elderly godmother Dinah.
And so begins a long, hot, intoxicating summer where Connie succumbs to temptation - breaking her marriage vows. When she returns home to Devan, she tries to put the affair behind her, but everything starts to unravel, and Jared has other ideas.
This is a story of utter obsession! At the start I felt it moved along quite slowly, but it gather momentum and by the end I was left gasping as I was so surprised with how it finished!
There were times when I wanted to shout at Connie as there were so many red flags that she didn’t see, but perhaps she was caught up in the moment, whereas I was a by-stander watching it all unfold!
Devan annoyed me to start with, with his constant whinging and moaning, he was like a petulant child but then he seemed to get a sudden change in character and became more loving and mellow.
Jared was definitely the villain of the piece, and I wanted to boo and hiss every time his name was mentioned on a page!
A wonderful book that I would happily recommend to my friends.
On the shores of Lake Como she is swept off her feet by Jared, a younger man who is on a tour with his elderly godmother Dinah.
And so begins a long, hot, intoxicating summer where Connie succumbs to temptation - breaking her marriage vows. When she returns home to Devan, she tries to put the affair behind her, but everything starts to unravel, and Jared has other ideas.
This is a story of utter obsession! At the start I felt it moved along quite slowly, but it gather momentum and by the end I was left gasping as I was so surprised with how it finished!
There were times when I wanted to shout at Connie as there were so many red flags that she didn’t see, but perhaps she was caught up in the moment, whereas I was a by-stander watching it all unfold!
Devan annoyed me to start with, with his constant whinging and moaning, he was like a petulant child but then he seemed to get a sudden change in character and became more loving and mellow.
Jared was definitely the villain of the piece, and I wanted to boo and hiss every time his name was mentioned on a page!
A wonderful book that I would happily recommend to my friends.
netgalley-recensiti-da-leggere
August 19, 2021Connie is a tour guide married to retired Devan. During one of her trips she meets young Jared, they have an affair and eventually he turns into a stalker.
Surrounding this storyline there's great descriptions of European countries, an easy to read and beautiful writing style for a slow burn domestic noir.
Not my favourite Hilary Boyd, but all in all a good read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Surrounding this storyline there's great descriptions of European countries, an easy to read and beautiful writing style for a slow burn domestic noir.
Not my favourite Hilary Boyd, but all in all a good read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2021
I loved this novel; the action builds slowly but insistently and shows how one misjudged act can have chilling consequences. Absolutely addictive and compelling, I was totally swept up in the story of Connie, Devan and Jared. Another great read from Hilary Boyd!
September 6, 2021
Novel set in the WEST COUNTRY and around EUROPE
I was lured to read this novel because the blurb heavily mentioned Lake Como, and who wouldn’t be tempted by a bit of Italian sunshine, food and wine, along with beautiful scenery? I like the cover, too!
Connie and her husband Devan have been married for several decades. Devan has now retired as the local GP and as a couple they have hit a rough patch. He is sliding into drinking and depression, as he has lost his focus, and she is only too happy to nip off on her various trips abroad as a European tour guide to avoid his gruff and lugubrious moods. She loves her job and will not be cajoled into giving up her touring just yet and join him in retirement. The future doesn’t look particularly rosy.
On her trip to Lake Como, she is flattered by the attentions of one of her clients and she becomes smitten by his turquoise eyes. It is at first a simple and confidence-restoring dalliance, but when he materialises on one of her next trips, she succumbs to a knee trembler down a cobbled street. And from there on in she is hooked until it dawns on her that perhaps things aren’t as she first imagined.
What didn’t really work for me was the relationship between Connie and her new-found beau. She likes the attention, yes, but there is neither real build up nor subtle exploration of the connection they are supposed to be making. “It” just happens. Boom. Therefore her attraction to him seems forced and without any real substance and context; the scene for what is to come hasn’t really been credibly laid out. Why her beau is motivated to behave in the way he does? Who knows.
Quite how she unpicks herself from this whole situation is the tenet of the narrative (after she has her long awaited damascene moment).
The description on Goodreads trumpets “Escape to Lake Como this summer“, but it is a rather misleading strapline for the book. I haven’t counted but there can’t be more than about 30 or 40 pages (7% on kindle) set around this beautiful lake. Subsequently there are trips to the Scottish Highlands, Italy and to Poland, so the reader does get a bit of a tour thrown in. Indeed, the settings are well drawn and nicely depicted, but much of the novel is set in Connie’s home village in the West Country and briefly in London.
It feels like a rather thinly plotted storyline, with such potential for a really meaty pas-de-deux of psychological drama; I hoped there would be a crescendo of psychological fireworks as the book came to its conclusion…. But you can decide for yourself if the ending merits the ‘heart stopping‘ moniker. The writing, however, is really very good and that kept me looped in, hoping that the story would develop into an astute narrative about temptation and adult intimate relationships.
I was lured to read this novel because the blurb heavily mentioned Lake Como, and who wouldn’t be tempted by a bit of Italian sunshine, food and wine, along with beautiful scenery? I like the cover, too!
Connie and her husband Devan have been married for several decades. Devan has now retired as the local GP and as a couple they have hit a rough patch. He is sliding into drinking and depression, as he has lost his focus, and she is only too happy to nip off on her various trips abroad as a European tour guide to avoid his gruff and lugubrious moods. She loves her job and will not be cajoled into giving up her touring just yet and join him in retirement. The future doesn’t look particularly rosy.
On her trip to Lake Como, she is flattered by the attentions of one of her clients and she becomes smitten by his turquoise eyes. It is at first a simple and confidence-restoring dalliance, but when he materialises on one of her next trips, she succumbs to a knee trembler down a cobbled street. And from there on in she is hooked until it dawns on her that perhaps things aren’t as she first imagined.
What didn’t really work for me was the relationship between Connie and her new-found beau. She likes the attention, yes, but there is neither real build up nor subtle exploration of the connection they are supposed to be making. “It” just happens. Boom. Therefore her attraction to him seems forced and without any real substance and context; the scene for what is to come hasn’t really been credibly laid out. Why her beau is motivated to behave in the way he does? Who knows.
Quite how she unpicks herself from this whole situation is the tenet of the narrative (after she has her long awaited damascene moment).
The description on Goodreads trumpets “Escape to Lake Como this summer“, but it is a rather misleading strapline for the book. I haven’t counted but there can’t be more than about 30 or 40 pages (7% on kindle) set around this beautiful lake. Subsequently there are trips to the Scottish Highlands, Italy and to Poland, so the reader does get a bit of a tour thrown in. Indeed, the settings are well drawn and nicely depicted, but much of the novel is set in Connie’s home village in the West Country and briefly in London.
It feels like a rather thinly plotted storyline, with such potential for a really meaty pas-de-deux of psychological drama; I hoped there would be a crescendo of psychological fireworks as the book came to its conclusion…. But you can decide for yourself if the ending merits the ‘heart stopping‘ moniker. The writing, however, is really very good and that kept me looped in, hoping that the story would develop into an astute narrative about temptation and adult intimate relationships.
August 31, 2021
The Affair by Hilary Boyd is a suspenseful/psychological literary fiction. A great, original plot with an unexpected yet believable ending.
This story centres around Connie who is a tour guide in her 60s. She spends five months of the year running organised tours to European destinations. She lives in Somerset with her retired husband Devan and their dog. On one of her Italian tours, she meets Jared who is in her tour group with his elderly godmother. Jared is a decade or so younger than Connie and they begin a summer affair. Once the summer is over, so is the affair. At least for Connie, but Jared doesn’t feel the same.
For the most part this book has a sedate, steady pace with a lot of details of the day to day lives of the protagonist. I can’t pinpoint exactly when, but it really drew me in, subtly so. I found Connie a very likeable character and whilst I don’t think cheating is OK, I did empathise with her. Certainly, this story makes an excellent cautionary tale for anyone tempted to stray!
I also liked the other characters in the story and very much enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Connie’s travels. It was a great insight into the work of a tour guide. I found this a very fresh and original novel. I didn’t see the events in the latter part of the book coming and the ending is gripping. Highly recommended!
This story centres around Connie who is a tour guide in her 60s. She spends five months of the year running organised tours to European destinations. She lives in Somerset with her retired husband Devan and their dog. On one of her Italian tours, she meets Jared who is in her tour group with his elderly godmother. Jared is a decade or so younger than Connie and they begin a summer affair. Once the summer is over, so is the affair. At least for Connie, but Jared doesn’t feel the same.
For the most part this book has a sedate, steady pace with a lot of details of the day to day lives of the protagonist. I can’t pinpoint exactly when, but it really drew me in, subtly so. I found Connie a very likeable character and whilst I don’t think cheating is OK, I did empathise with her. Certainly, this story makes an excellent cautionary tale for anyone tempted to stray!
I also liked the other characters in the story and very much enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Connie’s travels. It was a great insight into the work of a tour guide. I found this a very fresh and original novel. I didn’t see the events in the latter part of the book coming and the ending is gripping. Highly recommended!
August 19, 2021
I’ve been a big fan of Hilary Boyd’s writing ever since reading Thursdays in the Park and this is another book which rises to the high standards she easily maintains.
Connie is a tour guide; the job she loves takes her away from home from time to time. When on tour, she meets a man – younger than her – and there is a definite spark. With a very happy marriage to Devan, she would never have fallen for any man’s approach, but since her husband retired, things have changed and Connie is feeling unloved and rejected and she succumbs to Jared. When he turns up again and again, there is no doubt they are involved in an affair. But then the summer ends and she returns to her home and her marriage only Jared isn’t letting go quite so easily . . .
I don’t think I’ve come across any other writer who can get inside a marriage quite like Hilary Boyd. There is a clarity to her words which makes every scenario totally plausible. An emotionally charged story, this is also completely believable with realistic characters. Beautifully written, I was gripped all the way through and couldn’t have said how it would end but I do know that it was very fitting. As with all her novels, this one really got under my skin and there isn’t anything about it I didn’t like. Absorbing and appealing, definitely recommended, and one I’m happy to give all five stars.
Connie is a tour guide; the job she loves takes her away from home from time to time. When on tour, she meets a man – younger than her – and there is a definite spark. With a very happy marriage to Devan, she would never have fallen for any man’s approach, but since her husband retired, things have changed and Connie is feeling unloved and rejected and she succumbs to Jared. When he turns up again and again, there is no doubt they are involved in an affair. But then the summer ends and she returns to her home and her marriage only Jared isn’t letting go quite so easily . . .
I don’t think I’ve come across any other writer who can get inside a marriage quite like Hilary Boyd. There is a clarity to her words which makes every scenario totally plausible. An emotionally charged story, this is also completely believable with realistic characters. Beautifully written, I was gripped all the way through and couldn’t have said how it would end but I do know that it was very fitting. As with all her novels, this one really got under my skin and there isn’t anything about it I didn’t like. Absorbing and appealing, definitely recommended, and one I’m happy to give all five stars.
July 5, 2021
Oh, my! I really, really struggled to finish this. However, finish it I did and I'm rather sorry I bothered.
I found it a tedious read about tedious people and it's very repetitive. I was just hoping that something / anything would happen and that there'd be a redeeming twist or story, but, no.
Devan and Connie have been married for something like 33 years and they are obviously bored with each other. Devan is a retired GP in a village and Connie continues to enjoy her work as a travel guide. Connie desperately misses the closeness she once had with her husband and has an affair with a customer on one of her trips. This man then turns into a stalker.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to preview andI'm so glad many enjoyed it, but, definitely not for me. I found it a very sloooow hard read.
1* Didn't like.
I found it a tedious read about tedious people and it's very repetitive. I was just hoping that something / anything would happen and that there'd be a redeeming twist or story, but, no.
Devan and Connie have been married for something like 33 years and they are obviously bored with each other. Devan is a retired GP in a village and Connie continues to enjoy her work as a travel guide. Connie desperately misses the closeness she once had with her husband and has an affair with a customer on one of her trips. This man then turns into a stalker.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to preview andI'm so glad many enjoyed it, but, definitely not for me. I found it a very sloooow hard read.
1* Didn't like.
May 15, 2022
Took an age to get into this. The husband is clearly depressed and that is heart breaking. But more importantly, where is the sex, where is the drama?! It’s just average.
February 13, 2023
I’m not normally a great fan of the infidelity theme, but I really appreciated Boyd’s take on the subject. Connie, our main protagonist, was extremely relatable, which made me willing to give her the benefit of the doubt. Yes, she does cheat on her husband of 30-odd years with a younger man whilst on a work trip, but once you hear about the circumstances leading up to this moment, you may have some empathy for her. Who has never made a bad decision whilst feeling hurt and vulnerable?
Retirement from his GP practice has not sat well with Devan. Since being at home, he has been morose and withdrawn, blaming his mood on Connie’s reluctance to retire from her job as a tour guide, which she loves. As he is getting colder and meaner, she feels that she is using her work trips as an escape from her miserable home life. So when Jared, a man ten years her junior, shows her some attention and affection on one of her cruises, she does the unthinkable – she cheats on her husband of thirty odd years.
THE AFFAIR is a well written exploration of the aftereffects of a rash decision. Because of course there will be consequences, even if Connie soon comes to regret her digression and is willing to forget her misstep and give her marriage another go. It’s perhaps doubly unlucky for her that her love interest turns out to be a crazy stalker, who is not willing to let her go …
I enjoyed the character study of Connie and Devan’s relationship, and how Devan’s retirement and unhappiness changed the dynamics. Since we get a lot of backstory and a deep insight into Connie’s emotions and thoughts, her decisions were relatable and I felt a deep empathy for her predicament. Perhaps I had hoped for a bit more of the crazy stalker vibe, which could have been used to ratchet up tension, but the story played out more like a slow burning character study. Luckily I was fully invested in Connie’s character by then, so it kept me reading on eagerly to the end to find out how it would all end.
THE AFFAIR may be a bit slow for readers who crave a lot of action, but will appeal to those who can appreciate a well-drawn and insightful study of a marriage that is undergoing turmoil. As an extra bonus, Connie’s travels evoke some wonderful armchair travel scenes, which made for a great backdrop.
3.5 stars
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
Retirement from his GP practice has not sat well with Devan. Since being at home, he has been morose and withdrawn, blaming his mood on Connie’s reluctance to retire from her job as a tour guide, which she loves. As he is getting colder and meaner, she feels that she is using her work trips as an escape from her miserable home life. So when Jared, a man ten years her junior, shows her some attention and affection on one of her cruises, she does the unthinkable – she cheats on her husband of thirty odd years.
THE AFFAIR is a well written exploration of the aftereffects of a rash decision. Because of course there will be consequences, even if Connie soon comes to regret her digression and is willing to forget her misstep and give her marriage another go. It’s perhaps doubly unlucky for her that her love interest turns out to be a crazy stalker, who is not willing to let her go …
I enjoyed the character study of Connie and Devan’s relationship, and how Devan’s retirement and unhappiness changed the dynamics. Since we get a lot of backstory and a deep insight into Connie’s emotions and thoughts, her decisions were relatable and I felt a deep empathy for her predicament. Perhaps I had hoped for a bit more of the crazy stalker vibe, which could have been used to ratchet up tension, but the story played out more like a slow burning character study. Luckily I was fully invested in Connie’s character by then, so it kept me reading on eagerly to the end to find out how it would all end.
THE AFFAIR may be a bit slow for readers who crave a lot of action, but will appeal to those who can appreciate a well-drawn and insightful study of a marriage that is undergoing turmoil. As an extra bonus, Connie’s travels evoke some wonderful armchair travel scenes, which made for a great backdrop.
3.5 stars
*blog* *facebook* *instagram*
April 27, 2021
Thank you to the Publisher, and to Netgalley for sending me this widget which I am always delighted to read.
Connie is a tour guide who, dissatisfied with her marriage, has a brief affair with Jared who turns out to be a mental stalker.
This could have been a brilliant novel but for me the warning signs were on about Jared at the beginning. For someone to follow you over Europe knowing your destinations as a Tour Guide its not coincidence and its not romantic. Its stalking and don’t let him flatter you.
Once I began to think that Connie should have seen through Jared at the beginning, before she got involved, the tension and drama did not hit the mark for me. Of course, he was going to turn up in his life like he did her destination
I really wanted to enjoy this novel and give it a really good review, especially as I was sent the widget, but I found myself just crawling through it.
Sorry Connie you should have seen through him from the beginning.
Connie is a tour guide who, dissatisfied with her marriage, has a brief affair with Jared who turns out to be a mental stalker.
This could have been a brilliant novel but for me the warning signs were on about Jared at the beginning. For someone to follow you over Europe knowing your destinations as a Tour Guide its not coincidence and its not romantic. Its stalking and don’t let him flatter you.
Once I began to think that Connie should have seen through Jared at the beginning, before she got involved, the tension and drama did not hit the mark for me. Of course, he was going to turn up in his life like he did her destination
I really wanted to enjoy this novel and give it a really good review, especially as I was sent the widget, but I found myself just crawling through it.
Sorry Connie you should have seen through him from the beginning.
August 6, 2021
Connie is a tour manager and spends most summers touring around Europe with holiday makers. Her husband Devan, is a recently retired Dr, He is finding retirement difficult and appears to have given up on everything including his marriage. When Connie embarks on an affair with one of the holiday makers it threatens everything in her life.
I found this a slow book, I would not class it as a psychological thriller, more Stalker ish but with knowing who the character is. However I didnt expect the ending.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
I found this a slow book, I would not class it as a psychological thriller, more Stalker ish but with knowing who the character is. However I didnt expect the ending.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
October 23, 2024
This was ok 🤷♀️ the characters were older than the usual books I tend to read which made a change but there just wasn’t anything dramatic. The wife has an affair and the side piece gets a bit stalkery, but it’s fairly mild and fairly uneventful!
April 2, 2021
I don't think there was anything that I liked about this book.
Devan and Connie are an older couple. He has recently retired as the GP of a small village and she is still working as a travel guide.
Devan is struggling with his new retirement and he and Connie begin to drift apart due to Devan's behaviour.
Connie is the main character and it is while she is away on a work trip that she succumbs to the charm of one of her clients.
She knows that she has done the wrong thing by cheating on Devan and when she returns home from another trip, Devan tries to make amends but Connie is very confused.
She has made the decision to stop seeing the other fella and does her best to concentrate on her marriage.
Then someone new moves into the village. . . .
Devan and Connie are an older couple. He has recently retired as the GP of a small village and she is still working as a travel guide.
Devan is struggling with his new retirement and he and Connie begin to drift apart due to Devan's behaviour.
Connie is the main character and it is while she is away on a work trip that she succumbs to the charm of one of her clients.
She knows that she has done the wrong thing by cheating on Devan and when she returns home from another trip, Devan tries to make amends but Connie is very confused.
She has made the decision to stop seeing the other fella and does her best to concentrate on her marriage.
Then someone new moves into the village. . . .
May 21, 2021
This novel follows our main character, Connie, a tour guide operating throughout Europe, as she struggles to cope with her husband’s post-retirement depression. Inevitably, given the title, she embarks on an affair with one of her travelers and before long has serious reason to regret it.
Given what I’ve just said, and the blurb itself, you’d be forgiven for thinking this was a contemporary read with a hint of thriller in it, but sadly, if that’s what you’re looking for (as I was) this is likely to let you down. Ultimately, this is a long and rambling book told from the point of view of a woman who, honestly, seems like she’s never happy.
I really struggled to feel any connection with Connie – part of my understood her motivations and had a degree of empathy; however, she quickly became very tedious, and I found myself wondering why her husband hadn’t had an affair himself. In fact, I think I carried on reading in the hopes that perhaps that the would be the twist I was waiting for.
As for the husband, Devan, he almost felt like a background character, which is ridiculous given his relationship with Connie. There wasn’t enough of him, to really understand what was going on or the actual dynamics of their relationship. Jared, The Other Man, was just as much of a mystery and in the end, I just didn’t really get what the point of the whole thing was.
Unfortunately, for me, this just didn’t work. It became a struggle to read; if I’m being honest, I wish I’d bailed when I got bored at about half-way through as it just never really went anywhere and nothing remotely interesting/exciting/gripping happened. I’m sorry to say I don’t think I’ll be reading anything else from this author.
For more of my book news follow me on Insta: @PointsofLu
Given what I’ve just said, and the blurb itself, you’d be forgiven for thinking this was a contemporary read with a hint of thriller in it, but sadly, if that’s what you’re looking for (as I was) this is likely to let you down. Ultimately, this is a long and rambling book told from the point of view of a woman who, honestly, seems like she’s never happy.
I really struggled to feel any connection with Connie – part of my understood her motivations and had a degree of empathy; however, she quickly became very tedious, and I found myself wondering why her husband hadn’t had an affair himself. In fact, I think I carried on reading in the hopes that perhaps that the would be the twist I was waiting for.
As for the husband, Devan, he almost felt like a background character, which is ridiculous given his relationship with Connie. There wasn’t enough of him, to really understand what was going on or the actual dynamics of their relationship. Jared, The Other Man, was just as much of a mystery and in the end, I just didn’t really get what the point of the whole thing was.
Unfortunately, for me, this just didn’t work. It became a struggle to read; if I’m being honest, I wish I’d bailed when I got bored at about half-way through as it just never really went anywhere and nothing remotely interesting/exciting/gripping happened. I’m sorry to say I don’t think I’ll be reading anything else from this author.
For more of my book news follow me on Insta: @PointsofLu
June 3, 2021
Connie and Devan have had a long and happy marriage - until he retires from his medical practice. He hasn’t planned well for retirement and he slowly falls into a depression, avoiding all things Connie. Shared meals, conversation, sex and the like. Meanwhile Connie has come into her own. She’s a confident, attractive woman with what seems like a dream job. For seven months of the year, she leads several train tours a month to different British and European locations. Devan has begun to criticize her absence and wants her to retire.
It is with that on her mind that she guides a tour to Lake Como and that it what is on her mind when, after a tourist must suddenly return to their hotel, she finds herself alone with Jared, the godson of one of her charges. He’s younger, handsome and very flirtatious. And Connie is vulnerable. After a brief affair, Connie returns home to work on her marriage. The affair is over. Or is it?
The Affair, a thought provoking domestic thriller, has several themes. The first is a long look at marriage, about how relationships change over the years and how important love and trust are. The second is obsession and how an event is seen by different people. The plot is character driven. Connie is the strongest and best described. You’ll feel her panic as the story unfolds. The tension builds to a sad, shocking ending. 5 stars.
Thank yo to NetGalley, Penguin Michael Joseph UK and Hilary Boyd for this ARC.
It is with that on her mind that she guides a tour to Lake Como and that it what is on her mind when, after a tourist must suddenly return to their hotel, she finds herself alone with Jared, the godson of one of her charges. He’s younger, handsome and very flirtatious. And Connie is vulnerable. After a brief affair, Connie returns home to work on her marriage. The affair is over. Or is it?
The Affair, a thought provoking domestic thriller, has several themes. The first is a long look at marriage, about how relationships change over the years and how important love and trust are. The second is obsession and how an event is seen by different people. The plot is character driven. Connie is the strongest and best described. You’ll feel her panic as the story unfolds. The tension builds to a sad, shocking ending. 5 stars.
Thank yo to NetGalley, Penguin Michael Joseph UK and Hilary Boyd for this ARC.
January 19, 2023
This is an interesting book about loneliness whilst in a long term relationship and I did find it an easy read.
However, the characters needed to be much more rounded. Connie appears difficult and selfish, when I really wanted to like her more. Devan was Jekyll and Hyde...and so very difficult to have any sympathy with. Jared...made no sense whatsoever. What exactly was his motivation? Did he have a mental illness? What exactly was going on with him! None of that was explored and that's pretty fundamental for a book like this. The story was pretty superficial and never really scratched the surface of the characters or the ideas itself but was not a short book!
Connie's exile was unbelievable. Do people really leave their loved ones alone at Christmas? With a stalker on the loose? What awful horrible people surrounded Connie and then again that changes the story and the motivation. I don't think we were supposed to dislike Caty and Devan but their actions were so much worse than anything else!
Had this book ventured into the characters more think it would have been an interesting psychological thriller but as it was, it is just a light beach read with no real depth unfortunately.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
However, the characters needed to be much more rounded. Connie appears difficult and selfish, when I really wanted to like her more. Devan was Jekyll and Hyde...and so very difficult to have any sympathy with. Jared...made no sense whatsoever. What exactly was his motivation? Did he have a mental illness? What exactly was going on with him! None of that was explored and that's pretty fundamental for a book like this. The story was pretty superficial and never really scratched the surface of the characters or the ideas itself but was not a short book!
Connie's exile was unbelievable. Do people really leave their loved ones alone at Christmas? With a stalker on the loose? What awful horrible people surrounded Connie and then again that changes the story and the motivation. I don't think we were supposed to dislike Caty and Devan but their actions were so much worse than anything else!
Had this book ventured into the characters more think it would have been an interesting psychological thriller but as it was, it is just a light beach read with no real depth unfortunately.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews