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Shut The Lights
A dark and unpredictable tale of family secrets... and the lengths we go to, to save the ones we love. For lovers of non-formulaic domestic noir suspense.
For this family, the lockdown came as a blessing.
On 24 March 2020, with merely a four-hour notice, the Indian government declared a three-week lockdown as a containment measure for COVID-19. In terms of scale and severity, this lockdown was unparalleled worldwide. However, quite unexpectedly, for a family of four, cooped up in a plush Mumbai apartment, it came as a blessing.
On the face of it, Suvini, Mridul, Damien, and Tara belonged to an upper-middle-class family, with its typical privileges and pressures. But inwardly, each of them held a dark secret that threatened to derail their very existence. And the shutting down of everything had given them the unique opportunity to get away with it.
Or not.
Inspired by actual events.
For readers of Herman Koch, Elizabeth Haynes, and Leila Slimani.
For this family, the lockdown came as a blessing.
On 24 March 2020, with merely a four-hour notice, the Indian government declared a three-week lockdown as a containment measure for COVID-19. In terms of scale and severity, this lockdown was unparalleled worldwide. However, quite unexpectedly, for a family of four, cooped up in a plush Mumbai apartment, it came as a blessing.
On the face of it, Suvini, Mridul, Damien, and Tara belonged to an upper-middle-class family, with its typical privileges and pressures. But inwardly, each of them held a dark secret that threatened to derail their very existence. And the shutting down of everything had given them the unique opportunity to get away with it.
Or not.
Inspired by actual events.
For readers of Herman Koch, Elizabeth Haynes, and Leila Slimani.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2022
237 people are currently reading
713 people want to read
About the author
Smita Bhattacharya
16 books66 followersSMITA BHATTACHARYA writes atmospheric cosy, and psychological mystery fiction. Strong female protagonists and twisty whodunnits are her forte. Her psychological thriller novel—Dead to Them—was amongst the top Crime, Thriller & Mystery books of Amazon India in 2022. It has been optioned for a movie. She has also authored a popular amateur detective series—the Darya Nandkarni Misadventure Series. The first of the series—Kiss of Salt—is in talks to be optioned for a movie.
Smita lives in Mumbai but has solo travelled to over 45 countries. Her stories are heavily inspired by her travels and by those she meets. She has worked in a vineyard, a newsroom, a school, a library, a bank, an advisory firm, and a technology start-up.
You can read her colourful travel and life stories at www.smitabhattacharya.com.
Smita lives in Mumbai but has solo travelled to over 45 countries. Her stories are heavily inspired by her travels and by those she meets. She has worked in a vineyard, a newsroom, a school, a library, a bank, an advisory firm, and a technology start-up.
You can read her colourful travel and life stories at www.smitabhattacharya.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 23, 2022
More often than not, we come across situations where we are so grappled with our own life and trying to run after unimportant things, that we just stop taking a moment to sit back and take inventory of what we already have.
When the lockdown forced the families to be confined together in a limited space with no way of getting out, there were many who had to face a negative impact as it led to more fighting and overall increasing the stress.
But, on the other hand, there were also positive impacts that this confinement and staying at home had on families and in a way, that helped them to foster stronger bonds.
Now, did this solitary respite prove to be good or bad scenario for all our characters from the book, ‘Shut The Lights’ by author Smita Bhattacharya is the story that remains to be seen.
We are introduced to our main couple, Mridul and Suvini, who lived in a compact upscale home with their two children, Damien and Tara and seemingly were leading a typical family life.
However, as the book progresses, we realize that the Kakkars are far away from any normal middle class family and the lengths they will go to keep their secrets was truly fascinating to read.
At the beginning, I thought that this was going to be just another book that would encompass the life after the new normal, however the drama and thrill that ensued whilst the story progressed was truly a treat.
Author has done an excellent job of characterization and depicting the scenarios in detail, as well as keeping true to the essence, hence I am going to give this book FIVE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
When the lockdown forced the families to be confined together in a limited space with no way of getting out, there were many who had to face a negative impact as it led to more fighting and overall increasing the stress.
But, on the other hand, there were also positive impacts that this confinement and staying at home had on families and in a way, that helped them to foster stronger bonds.
Now, did this solitary respite prove to be good or bad scenario for all our characters from the book, ‘Shut The Lights’ by author Smita Bhattacharya is the story that remains to be seen.
We are introduced to our main couple, Mridul and Suvini, who lived in a compact upscale home with their two children, Damien and Tara and seemingly were leading a typical family life.
However, as the book progresses, we realize that the Kakkars are far away from any normal middle class family and the lengths they will go to keep their secrets was truly fascinating to read.
At the beginning, I thought that this was going to be just another book that would encompass the life after the new normal, however the drama and thrill that ensued whilst the story progressed was truly a treat.
Author has done an excellent job of characterization and depicting the scenarios in detail, as well as keeping true to the essence, hence I am going to give this book FIVE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 16, 2022
I am a fan of all types of thrillers so I didn't think much before diving into this book. Also, the cover and title are giving all good thriller vibes.
This is a story of a normal-looking family of Mridul, Suvini and their children Damien and Tara. All characters seem mysterious and have some secrets. The story starts when the first lockdown was introduced in India in March 2020. Now, the whole family is living together and it's being hard for everyone but gradually they find their happiness with each other.
The first half of the story is a slow burn and I was thinking about when something will happen or be revealed. The second half gets more interesting. The secrets are slowly coming out. But when I thought the story is going somewhere, it was finished. I guess I didn't find a good closure for the story. The author has kept things without an end.
The plot and narration were gripping. I was on the edge to find out what was happening but the ending disappointed me. The characters are well developed. The language is lucid. It can be said a good popcorn domestic thriller. If you are a beginner for thrillers and looking for not so heavy plot, this book is recommended.
This is a story of a normal-looking family of Mridul, Suvini and their children Damien and Tara. All characters seem mysterious and have some secrets. The story starts when the first lockdown was introduced in India in March 2020. Now, the whole family is living together and it's being hard for everyone but gradually they find their happiness with each other.
The first half of the story is a slow burn and I was thinking about when something will happen or be revealed. The second half gets more interesting. The secrets are slowly coming out. But when I thought the story is going somewhere, it was finished. I guess I didn't find a good closure for the story. The author has kept things without an end.
The plot and narration were gripping. I was on the edge to find out what was happening but the ending disappointed me. The characters are well developed. The language is lucid. It can be said a good popcorn domestic thriller. If you are a beginner for thrillers and looking for not so heavy plot, this book is recommended.
August 26, 2022
The covid 19 phase is still in our minds and gives us goosebumps till now. Everyone is trying to overcome that phase. But some stories are made and this story is a reflection of the truth. Based on true events.
The story revolves around a family of Suvini, and Mridul and their spoiled kids Tara and Damien. Though all are living in the same house their minds are far apart. Sita, their maid is absent due to the lockdown of 21 days and Suvini has to do all the work. And the drama starts from here. They are living in a nutshell where they thought they can hide their dark secrets. Everyone has secrets and they all will open in the air. Day by day their reality came to the light and at last, it was out of control.
Suvini is struggling to trust her husband Mridul. He seems to be disturbed or doing something which will upset her and destroy her family.
Will Suvini do something to save her family?
What are the secrets the family is trying to hide from each other?
This story is a power-packed thrilling mystery. It takes a fast pace when the family started showing their reality and the drama starts which just blew my mind. An ideal mind is a devil's workshop and I can now feel the meaning of the sentence. I got so drowned in the storyline. Full of mystery, deep secrets buried in the shell of lies, the spoiled rich brat kids and an ignorant father and the mother who knows nothing but has taken the responsibility to manage everything. The ending is another surprise. It ended in such a way that you need to rethink what just happened.
Highly recommended for thriller readers.
The story revolves around a family of Suvini, and Mridul and their spoiled kids Tara and Damien. Though all are living in the same house their minds are far apart. Sita, their maid is absent due to the lockdown of 21 days and Suvini has to do all the work. And the drama starts from here. They are living in a nutshell where they thought they can hide their dark secrets. Everyone has secrets and they all will open in the air. Day by day their reality came to the light and at last, it was out of control.
Suvini is struggling to trust her husband Mridul. He seems to be disturbed or doing something which will upset her and destroy her family.
Will Suvini do something to save her family?
What are the secrets the family is trying to hide from each other?
This story is a power-packed thrilling mystery. It takes a fast pace when the family started showing their reality and the drama starts which just blew my mind. An ideal mind is a devil's workshop and I can now feel the meaning of the sentence. I got so drowned in the storyline. Full of mystery, deep secrets buried in the shell of lies, the spoiled rich brat kids and an ignorant father and the mother who knows nothing but has taken the responsibility to manage everything. The ending is another surprise. It ended in such a way that you need to rethink what just happened.
Highly recommended for thriller readers.
August 22, 2022
The story revolves around the Kakkar family, a family of four, Mridul, Suvini and their kids, Damien and Tara. It is set during the time when initially a 21 day lockdown was initiated in India due to the pandemic. Each one of these people have their own dirty secrets, living under the same roof, trapped. The kids keep hiding stuff from their parents and the partners kept secrets from each other. It was then when the lockdown comes as a blessing in disguise to them. I liked how the story unfolded slowly and in a creepy manner. It's scary and I liked it like that. On top of all these secret keeping and dilemmas, the fear of also catching a dreadful disease, it was just too much drama, loved it. The fact that this story is based on true events makes it even more scarier. I absolutely loved this psychological tale. The language was easy and understandable. I liked the storytelling style. The story was normal paced in the beginning half but it catches up in the second half. In the beginning I could relate to their lives because we have all been through the existential crisis during covid period. But then it slowly got uneasy, like it was getting into my nerves by the page. And then boom, plot twist. I gasped and also cried at a few instances. I would give trigger warnings though, based on my personal experience here. I would recommend this to people who like psychological thrillers. I wish I could read it for the first time again, re-live that creepy experience. Only thing I did not understand was the title and how it was 'that' relative. Maybe they could have come up with something more creative. Anyway, loved the story. So no remorses. Totally recommended to all the thriller genre lovers out there.
September 8, 2022
A couple of trigger alerts before you begin reading this book. The storyline is of the Covid time & those who don't desire to relive those moments ought to be cautious in selecting this one. Furthermore, there are suicidal circumstances mentioned that might not be right for everyone.
Usually, we hold situations where we maintain secrets from our loved ones for everything to operate naturally & lead a quiet life. Then arrives a juncture when everything stops & one has plenty of time to consider what's proceeding & what one truly enjoys in life. This happened to Mridul & his family members during the Covid lockdown, which compelled them to come out of their hectic schedules, scrutinize their internal weaknesses & wonder how things are driving.
I became a lover of the author's writing after I first read 'Dead To Them' & was keen to read more of her works. And to inform you that I was happy reading 'Shut The Lights' will do no full justice. Her nail-biters are filled with twists & keep one thinking till the absolute last. The blurb said 'non-formulaic domestic noir suspense' & 'inspired by actual events' & then there was the author herself, so, you see, I didn't require much persuasion.
If I had to pick on the nitty-gritty, then it's the few proofreading mistakes that can be handled before the following edition. I also sensed that both the book title & the end could have been slightly different. I had much higher expectations, mainly from the finish & felt that it terminated suddenly.
Altogether, a fantastic thriller novel & individuals 18+ will frankly relish it.
Usually, we hold situations where we maintain secrets from our loved ones for everything to operate naturally & lead a quiet life. Then arrives a juncture when everything stops & one has plenty of time to consider what's proceeding & what one truly enjoys in life. This happened to Mridul & his family members during the Covid lockdown, which compelled them to come out of their hectic schedules, scrutinize their internal weaknesses & wonder how things are driving.
I became a lover of the author's writing after I first read 'Dead To Them' & was keen to read more of her works. And to inform you that I was happy reading 'Shut The Lights' will do no full justice. Her nail-biters are filled with twists & keep one thinking till the absolute last. The blurb said 'non-formulaic domestic noir suspense' & 'inspired by actual events' & then there was the author herself, so, you see, I didn't require much persuasion.
If I had to pick on the nitty-gritty, then it's the few proofreading mistakes that can be handled before the following edition. I also sensed that both the book title & the end could have been slightly different. I had much higher expectations, mainly from the finish & felt that it terminated suddenly.
Altogether, a fantastic thriller novel & individuals 18+ will frankly relish it.
August 15, 2022
Thank you, Hidden Gems and the author, for sending me an advanced copy to read, in exchange for an honest review.
Rounded from a 4.5 :)
Trigger warnings for self-harm "games."
The COVID lock down affected the world in unimaginable ways. Each household had to adjust and figure out how to navigate the new normal.
The family in this novel in no different. From upper middle class, they attempt to embrace their new normal and make it until the end of the lockdown.
But when COVID hits really close to this home, everything changes. Secrets unravel and suddenly, everyone is left with a choice: try to keep things as is or escape to somewhere new.
The characters are well established and pretty dynamic, in their own ways. I do wish we would have received more insight into the kids, but understand why it wasn't included.
I am still a little confused at to what the mother did/did not know, but I'm sure with a re-read, I'll figure it out.
Definitely recommend for fans of thrillers/mysteries.
Rounded from a 4.5 :)
Trigger warnings for self-harm "games."
The COVID lock down affected the world in unimaginable ways. Each household had to adjust and figure out how to navigate the new normal.
The family in this novel in no different. From upper middle class, they attempt to embrace their new normal and make it until the end of the lockdown.
But when COVID hits really close to this home, everything changes. Secrets unravel and suddenly, everyone is left with a choice: try to keep things as is or escape to somewhere new.
The characters are well established and pretty dynamic, in their own ways. I do wish we would have received more insight into the kids, but understand why it wasn't included.
I am still a little confused at to what the mother did/did not know, but I'm sure with a re-read, I'll figure it out.
Definitely recommend for fans of thrillers/mysteries.
August 26, 2022
I enjoy all varieties of thrillers, so I didn't give this book much thought before starting it. Additionally, the title and cover both convey a terrific suspense vibe.
This is the tale of a seemingly typical family made up of Mridul, Suvini, and their kids Tara and Damien. Every persona exudes mystery and harbours certain secrets. The narrative begins in March 2020, when India instituted its first shutdown. The entire family is currently residing together, which is difficult for everyone, but with time they all come to discover happiness in one another.
There is no difference in the family in this book. They come from the upper middle class and try to adapt to their new normal in order to survive the lockdown.
However, all changes when COVID strikes fairly close to this house. As secrets come to light, everyone is suddenly faced with a decision: try to maintain the status quo or flee to another location.
Since the first part of the novel moves slowly, I kept wondering when a certain event or revelation would occur. The latter portion becomes more captivating. Slowly, the mysteries are being revealed. But just as I believed the narrative was taking a turn, it was over. I suppose I struggled to find a satisfying ending for the tale. Things have been held indefinitely by the author.
The narrative and plot were compelling. I was anxious to learn what was going, but I was let down by the conclusion. Well-developed characters are present. The words are clear. A decent popcorn domestic thriller, one could say. This book is advised if you're new to thrillers and want something with a light plot.
This is the tale of a seemingly typical family made up of Mridul, Suvini, and their kids Tara and Damien. Every persona exudes mystery and harbours certain secrets. The narrative begins in March 2020, when India instituted its first shutdown. The entire family is currently residing together, which is difficult for everyone, but with time they all come to discover happiness in one another.
There is no difference in the family in this book. They come from the upper middle class and try to adapt to their new normal in order to survive the lockdown.
However, all changes when COVID strikes fairly close to this house. As secrets come to light, everyone is suddenly faced with a decision: try to maintain the status quo or flee to another location.
Since the first part of the novel moves slowly, I kept wondering when a certain event or revelation would occur. The latter portion becomes more captivating. Slowly, the mysteries are being revealed. But just as I believed the narrative was taking a turn, it was over. I suppose I struggled to find a satisfying ending for the tale. Things have been held indefinitely by the author.
The narrative and plot were compelling. I was anxious to learn what was going, but I was let down by the conclusion. Well-developed characters are present. The words are clear. A decent popcorn domestic thriller, one could say. This book is advised if you're new to thrillers and want something with a light plot.
August 31, 2022
Recently I finished reading an amazing thriller, "Shut the Lights" by Smita Bhattacharya. It was an exciting read with a blend of reality and fictitious elements. This read will take you on a roller coaster ride to the time when the country was facing three weeks of lockdown, i.e. the period of Covid-19 with the suspicious family, The Kakkars.
This read introduces, four main characters, rather I should say an upper-middle class family, The Kakkars which includes Suvini, Mridul, Damien, and Tara. They were stuck with each other due to the pandemic. What if the readers, witness a crime scene? What if the family is a mystery? Grab your copies and unfold the truth.
Now, coming on the book cover, it's bright and attractive. Very well-designed and presented. The title was apt and well-suited. The writing style of the author was pretty impressive, rich and reader-friendly words used which makes it engaging. The climax of the readers will keep you hooked till the end. The pace was good. The plot was great. The storyline was perfect. The narrations were apt. All the characters were strongly presented and well-built.
Overall a great read and will recommend it.
This read introduces, four main characters, rather I should say an upper-middle class family, The Kakkars which includes Suvini, Mridul, Damien, and Tara. They were stuck with each other due to the pandemic. What if the readers, witness a crime scene? What if the family is a mystery? Grab your copies and unfold the truth.
Now, coming on the book cover, it's bright and attractive. Very well-designed and presented. The title was apt and well-suited. The writing style of the author was pretty impressive, rich and reader-friendly words used which makes it engaging. The climax of the readers will keep you hooked till the end. The pace was good. The plot was great. The storyline was perfect. The narrations were apt. All the characters were strongly presented and well-built.
Overall a great read and will recommend it.
August 27, 2022
This book is a thriller which kept me hooked to my seat. It's about a family during the covid lockdown. The idea is very creative. My expectations were very different from the actual plot.
Mridul and Suvini have two children named Damien and Tara. Due to the lockdown, they are staying together and then the entire plot changes. It's about dirty family secrets and the way they deal with them.
I liked the way the plot was paced and at the ending, it got intense. The first part is a bit slow but it builds up the background. All the twists were really good and unexpected.
The writing was lucid and all the characters had a good development but it was very different from what I thought. The fact that it is based on true events is the icing on the cake. I liked it.
The ending could have been better. I thought I needed a little more closure but it is a nice read.
Mridul and Suvini have two children named Damien and Tara. Due to the lockdown, they are staying together and then the entire plot changes. It's about dirty family secrets and the way they deal with them.
I liked the way the plot was paced and at the ending, it got intense. The first part is a bit slow but it builds up the background. All the twists were really good and unexpected.
The writing was lucid and all the characters had a good development but it was very different from what I thought. The fact that it is based on true events is the icing on the cake. I liked it.
The ending could have been better. I thought I needed a little more closure but it is a nice read.
January 3, 2024
Wasted of time. I would like to thank myself for finishing this book. I’m happy I didn’t buy this book. The only thing I like about this book is how the author makes me feel uncomfortable while reading.
The plot - nothing new. You can guess the ending at 50% of the book.
In my conclusion
50% of book - unhappy marriage
20% of book - COVID-19
5% of book - thriller details
5% of book - housework, classes
20% of book - parenting
The plot - nothing new. You can guess the ending at 50% of the book.
In my conclusion
50% of book - unhappy marriage
20% of book - COVID-19
5% of book - thriller details
5% of book - housework, classes
20% of book - parenting
March 30, 2023
review originally published at https://amanjareads.com/shut-the-ligh...
Thank you so much to author Smita Bhattacharya for providing me with a copy of Shut the Lights in exchange for this honest review.
Remember the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic? The uncertainty, the fear, the lockdown? Shut the Lights brings us back to that stressful era with a family drama about a family of four stuck in their small apartment for 21 days. This thriller not only captures what those early days in lockdown felt like but also the unique tension that can only come from the people you're closest to.
Parents Mridul and Suvini and their two kids Damien and Tara live together in a small apartment in Mumbai. They've just been informed they're entering a 21 day lockdown and are trapped together for nearly a month.
The parents are working from home and the kids are attempting their classwork. The kids mostly stick to their shared bedroom out of the way. As the story progresses the parents keep alluding to some past incident the teenagers were involved in that make them suspicious of any secrecy. At first, mother Suvini may come off as overprotective or controlling but it all makes sense in the end.
To double down on the suspense Suvini finds a mysterious letter containing a vague threat of blackmail. We also have father Mridul being sketchy about phone calls and messages. Everyone in the family starts acting strange and trust starts to thin from all sides.
The reader is left in the dark for a lot of Shut the Lights, we're left to wonder what happened before this lockdown that set everyone on edge to begin with. By the time the secrets are revealed we fully understand why some memories are left buried and some secrets are better left kept to their owners.
People say that honesty is the best policy but more secrets might just help this family stay together. The more that comes out the worse it gets.
Shut the Lights is a well paced thriller that lays out just enough groundwork to keep the reader engaged. You'll want to keep reading because you'll really want to know what each character is hiding. By the end of the novel all of the pieces fall nicely into place and small details from the beginning of the book come back to have much more meaning.
It's also nice to read a novel that takes place in another country and culture without being about that country and culture. I try to stay away from American default-ism but it's definitely difficult when that's pretty much what I know and what's popular. When I try to search for "diverse" reads the lists are often political and social commentaries. Yes, these are important as well, but isn't it just as important to see how similar people are all over the world?
This Indian family is likely very similar to your own, regardless of your nationality. Shut the Lights bridges cultural divides and reminds us that at the beginning of the pandemic we were all facing a global threat on equal footing. Families everywhere were being locked down and we all had that in common.
If you are a fan of thrillers, dramas, and dark secrets I strongly recommend Shut the Lights. You'll see yourself as part of this family but hopefully your secrets are a bit less extreme.
5/5 lights 💡💡💡💡💡
Thank you so much to author Smita Bhattacharya for providing me with a copy of Shut the Lights in exchange for this honest review.
Remember the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic? The uncertainty, the fear, the lockdown? Shut the Lights brings us back to that stressful era with a family drama about a family of four stuck in their small apartment for 21 days. This thriller not only captures what those early days in lockdown felt like but also the unique tension that can only come from the people you're closest to.
Parents Mridul and Suvini and their two kids Damien and Tara live together in a small apartment in Mumbai. They've just been informed they're entering a 21 day lockdown and are trapped together for nearly a month.
The parents are working from home and the kids are attempting their classwork. The kids mostly stick to their shared bedroom out of the way. As the story progresses the parents keep alluding to some past incident the teenagers were involved in that make them suspicious of any secrecy. At first, mother Suvini may come off as overprotective or controlling but it all makes sense in the end.
To double down on the suspense Suvini finds a mysterious letter containing a vague threat of blackmail. We also have father Mridul being sketchy about phone calls and messages. Everyone in the family starts acting strange and trust starts to thin from all sides.
The reader is left in the dark for a lot of Shut the Lights, we're left to wonder what happened before this lockdown that set everyone on edge to begin with. By the time the secrets are revealed we fully understand why some memories are left buried and some secrets are better left kept to their owners.
People say that honesty is the best policy but more secrets might just help this family stay together. The more that comes out the worse it gets.
Shut the Lights is a well paced thriller that lays out just enough groundwork to keep the reader engaged. You'll want to keep reading because you'll really want to know what each character is hiding. By the end of the novel all of the pieces fall nicely into place and small details from the beginning of the book come back to have much more meaning.
It's also nice to read a novel that takes place in another country and culture without being about that country and culture. I try to stay away from American default-ism but it's definitely difficult when that's pretty much what I know and what's popular. When I try to search for "diverse" reads the lists are often political and social commentaries. Yes, these are important as well, but isn't it just as important to see how similar people are all over the world?
This Indian family is likely very similar to your own, regardless of your nationality. Shut the Lights bridges cultural divides and reminds us that at the beginning of the pandemic we were all facing a global threat on equal footing. Families everywhere were being locked down and we all had that in common.
If you are a fan of thrillers, dramas, and dark secrets I strongly recommend Shut the Lights. You'll see yourself as part of this family but hopefully your secrets are a bit less extreme.
5/5 lights 💡💡💡💡💡
August 15, 2022
With the covid pandemic lockdowns each country had their own set rules and regulations they had to followed or face the consequences. Some countries had harsher rules than others.
Every family had to learn to adjust during the lockdown. Parents worked from home. Children's classes by computer. A time for families to bond.
Losing some of your freedom isn't easy. Being confined to your home with no social life was even harder. All you had was time. Time to think. Your past. Your mistakes. The lies. The guilt.
When the Indian government called for a three week lockdown Suvini and Mridul with the help of their maid Sita had prepared in advance. Sita left to be with their family but where was her four year old son?
Suvini and Mridul were considered upper middle class in Mumbai. Working from home released some of the pressures from day to day pressures of the office.
Suvini was somewhat at a loss when preparing meals for her family. She didn't realize just how much she had depended on Sita. She also worried more about her children and what kind of trouble they would get into on the internet. She was the disciplinary one. All the while her husband did his own thing.
Damien and Tara were your typical teenagers. Spoilt, mouthy, attitudes and sneaky. You never knew what was going on behind their locked door.
When tragedy hit home and roles were reversed Mridul began to uncover secrets of his children and Suvini.
How many lies will it take to keep this family from breaking?
Some secrets are meant to be buried while others should be revealed.
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Every family had to learn to adjust during the lockdown. Parents worked from home. Children's classes by computer. A time for families to bond.
Losing some of your freedom isn't easy. Being confined to your home with no social life was even harder. All you had was time. Time to think. Your past. Your mistakes. The lies. The guilt.
When the Indian government called for a three week lockdown Suvini and Mridul with the help of their maid Sita had prepared in advance. Sita left to be with their family but where was her four year old son?
Suvini and Mridul were considered upper middle class in Mumbai. Working from home released some of the pressures from day to day pressures of the office.
Suvini was somewhat at a loss when preparing meals for her family. She didn't realize just how much she had depended on Sita. She also worried more about her children and what kind of trouble they would get into on the internet. She was the disciplinary one. All the while her husband did his own thing.
Damien and Tara were your typical teenagers. Spoilt, mouthy, attitudes and sneaky. You never knew what was going on behind their locked door.
When tragedy hit home and roles were reversed Mridul began to uncover secrets of his children and Suvini.
How many lies will it take to keep this family from breaking?
Some secrets are meant to be buried while others should be revealed.
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 23, 2022
Suvini and Mridul live in a fancy Mumbai Apartment with their kids Damien and Tara.
The story is set during the COVID-19 Pandemic,in Mumbai.A complete lockdown was declared.
Suvini struggles to find a balance between Work and household chores.
Mridul was just working and busy in his own world. And kids wanted their privacy and stepped out of their bedroom just for meals.
As they face their biggest fear,the story unfolds dark secrets from everyone's life.
The scenario of masks,Hospital, intensive care, oximeter ,terror, isolation, exclusion, perplexity comes flashing in front of your eyes.
The narrative of lockdown,its rules,and its effects were described very well.
"Only when you’re in prison do you realise the value of freedom. Only when you’re sick, do you realise the value of being healthy"
This line from the book is the reality we all faced during the Pandemic.
For many of us, Pandemic has been a huge eye opener.
Mental health should be given the same
significance to physical health.
Our society depends on one another.
The novel is an engrossing,suspenseful plot-driven.The author with her storytelling skills has made sure the reader is hooked.
With every twist and turn the mystery unfolds.It becomes more and more intriguing.
The locations, clothing, characters, and their personalities are all described in great detail.
There was suspense until I turned the last page and it just brought tears to my eyes.
A number of subjects are brought up in this thoughtful tale,like a Husband's active participation in the house duties and Issues with Teenagers.
The book is fast-paced but will keep you engaged. The language and writing style is very subtle, which does complete justice to this Thriller.
What were the dark secrets that could change everyone's life?Do give this book a read to know the story.
So you are someone who likes Suspense, Thriller and yet Compelling narrative this book is for you.
The story is set during the COVID-19 Pandemic,in Mumbai.A complete lockdown was declared.
Suvini struggles to find a balance between Work and household chores.
Mridul was just working and busy in his own world. And kids wanted their privacy and stepped out of their bedroom just for meals.
As they face their biggest fear,the story unfolds dark secrets from everyone's life.
The scenario of masks,Hospital, intensive care, oximeter ,terror, isolation, exclusion, perplexity comes flashing in front of your eyes.
The narrative of lockdown,its rules,and its effects were described very well.
"Only when you’re in prison do you realise the value of freedom. Only when you’re sick, do you realise the value of being healthy"
This line from the book is the reality we all faced during the Pandemic.
For many of us, Pandemic has been a huge eye opener.
Mental health should be given the same
significance to physical health.
Our society depends on one another.
The novel is an engrossing,suspenseful plot-driven.The author with her storytelling skills has made sure the reader is hooked.
With every twist and turn the mystery unfolds.It becomes more and more intriguing.
The locations, clothing, characters, and their personalities are all described in great detail.
There was suspense until I turned the last page and it just brought tears to my eyes.
A number of subjects are brought up in this thoughtful tale,like a Husband's active participation in the house duties and Issues with Teenagers.
The book is fast-paced but will keep you engaged. The language and writing style is very subtle, which does complete justice to this Thriller.
What were the dark secrets that could change everyone's life?Do give this book a read to know the story.
So you are someone who likes Suspense, Thriller and yet Compelling narrative this book is for you.
September 2, 2022
“Only when you’re in prison do you realize the value of freedom. Only when you’re sick, do you realize the value of being healthy.”
March 2020 lockdown brought a substantial change to daily life; it was not only tough physically and mentally but also brought about strained relationships in many ways. Inspired by the actual events, “Smita Bhattacharya” through her book “Shut the lights,” brings a family’s journey and how they cope with the lockdown.
The book follows the story of a family of four, Mirdul, Suvini, and their children Damien and Tara, who get locked under the same roof because of the imposed lockdown, each with their secrets.
Suvini tried to deal with the situation calmly; however, things got suspicious when the children refused to come out of their room except for meals. Mridul and Suvini both are also hiding something from each other. What are these secrets? And how will this family hold together?
The book has all the ingredients of tension, suspense, and fear on each flipping page, which builds an intriguing story plot. With the story’s characters, the author weaves the lifestyle of a metro city life and its impact of it on an individual’s life choices. The beautiful writing lets me imagine the scene, like the anxious pandemic time, the character’s emotions, and their fear of the deadly disease, as well as the family drama. In between the suspense, the author also raises questions like the effect of technology on young minds or how good or bad parenting can affect children through her story. The characters are well-developed and feel like normal people, from middle-aged parents to stubborn, spoilt, and mouthy kids.
Though the book has a gripping story, intriguing lot, and well-developed characters, I felt the first half of the book was a bit stretchy. Apart from it, this book is a decent pick for all suspense and thriller readers.
March 2020 lockdown brought a substantial change to daily life; it was not only tough physically and mentally but also brought about strained relationships in many ways. Inspired by the actual events, “Smita Bhattacharya” through her book “Shut the lights,” brings a family’s journey and how they cope with the lockdown.
The book follows the story of a family of four, Mirdul, Suvini, and their children Damien and Tara, who get locked under the same roof because of the imposed lockdown, each with their secrets.
Suvini tried to deal with the situation calmly; however, things got suspicious when the children refused to come out of their room except for meals. Mridul and Suvini both are also hiding something from each other. What are these secrets? And how will this family hold together?
The book has all the ingredients of tension, suspense, and fear on each flipping page, which builds an intriguing story plot. With the story’s characters, the author weaves the lifestyle of a metro city life and its impact of it on an individual’s life choices. The beautiful writing lets me imagine the scene, like the anxious pandemic time, the character’s emotions, and their fear of the deadly disease, as well as the family drama. In between the suspense, the author also raises questions like the effect of technology on young minds or how good or bad parenting can affect children through her story. The characters are well-developed and feel like normal people, from middle-aged parents to stubborn, spoilt, and mouthy kids.
Though the book has a gripping story, intriguing lot, and well-developed characters, I felt the first half of the book was a bit stretchy. Apart from it, this book is a decent pick for all suspense and thriller readers.
August 29, 2022
Theme:
The lockdown days of 2020 shall stay in our lives forever. Be it good or bad, those days left a mark on all our lives.
The author has set up the novel based on the same theme. An apartment, four upper-middle-class people, and a lockdown. Each of them has its own set of secrets, darkness and hideousness. Will they confront everything during the dark period?
Narration:
The first half was very laggy, but the fast-paced second half compensated for it. The Covid test portions were very good. The process of giving tests and the psychological impacts and trauma it has on the people were explained well.
The final covid test and result portion were good. The last lines felt like a hard-hitting reality.
Also, the book reflected the lockdown routine almost every one of them followed. Waking up, phone, work followed by phone again and sleep. Lack of human interaction and this monotonousness would lead us to a dead end.
Language and grammar were simple and neat. The date-wise arrangement of the events was very interesting to read. It felt like the events were happening in front of the eyes instead of being in a book.
The positivity and vaccine lines were very good.
Speaking of the cover and title, the cover was so well-designed and attractive. Being a thriller sort of book, the title and cover were apt and perfect.
A fast-paced read, on the whole!
Rating: 4/5
The lockdown days of 2020 shall stay in our lives forever. Be it good or bad, those days left a mark on all our lives.
The author has set up the novel based on the same theme. An apartment, four upper-middle-class people, and a lockdown. Each of them has its own set of secrets, darkness and hideousness. Will they confront everything during the dark period?
Narration:
The first half was very laggy, but the fast-paced second half compensated for it. The Covid test portions were very good. The process of giving tests and the psychological impacts and trauma it has on the people were explained well.
The final covid test and result portion were good. The last lines felt like a hard-hitting reality.
Also, the book reflected the lockdown routine almost every one of them followed. Waking up, phone, work followed by phone again and sleep. Lack of human interaction and this monotonousness would lead us to a dead end.
Language and grammar were simple and neat. The date-wise arrangement of the events was very interesting to read. It felt like the events were happening in front of the eyes instead of being in a book.
The positivity and vaccine lines were very good.
Speaking of the cover and title, the cover was so well-designed and attractive. Being a thriller sort of book, the title and cover were apt and perfect.
A fast-paced read, on the whole!
Rating: 4/5
August 25, 2022
Shut the lights by Smita Bhattacharya is a lovely tale that conveys the value of family. The author picks a very relatable topic from the covid era which I guess everyone faces. This is the tale of a family that remained united through good times and bad while the Indian government imposed a three-week lockdown as a Covid -19 containment tactic.
When a lockdown is imposed by the government during covid, it lasts for around a year. Over time, that thing began to irritate people. However, while the lockdown may be unpleasant for some families, it may benefit others. In this book, the four members of a family; Suvini, Mridul, Damien, and Tara play a key role in the plot. They just gave off the impression of being from an upper middle class family with all the privileges and expectations that entails. Suvini is the one who worries the most about her kids. Suvini becomes suspicious when the kids refuse to leave their bedroom throughout the lockdown, except for mealtimes. Mridul, though, is certain that there is no need for concern. Many of the things Suvini suspected turn out to be true when Suvini becomes ill and Mridul is left in charge of all obligations.
The story is quite relatable to me that how a busy family unite together during covid. The language used by the author is pretty simple and amazing. It is simpler to understand their aims because of how clearly the author stated their backgrounds. The narrative is pretty intriguing, and the message is endearing. As the tale goes on, the pace quickens. I stayed interested in the story till the end because of the suspense factor.
August 20, 2022
Shut The Lights is a thriller/mystery novel by Smita Bhattacharya. The author shares the story of a family, consisting of a son, a daughter, and parents. Tara and Damien are typically teenagers- dramatic, secretive, and mischievous. They live in Mumbai. One day suddenly after the Indian government declares a complete lockdown, this family is shaken as they all hold a secret inside them. If this secret is revealed, it might throw out their mere existence. How they use this lockdown for their benefit and how the story proceeds are for you to read.
Inspired by true events... This line was sufficient for me to pick this book up. The writing style is impeccable. It's almost like the thrillers written by foreign authors. The story was engaging due to the writing style. The first half of the book somewhat lacked luster as the characters went about with their lockdown lives. As the book crossed 60%, I got hooked to my seat.
The author portrayed how present crimes are built on past mischiefs. Crimes can be inherited is what I felt after I read the story or so to say children learn from parents. Children especially teenagers can even multiply the mistakes committed by parents. I am so disgusted with the teenagers that I completely hate them now.
The writing style is so good that I don't have a favorite character in this book as all the characters had faults and it is really hard for me to not judge them and overlook their misdeeds. Although the story is fast-paced and engaging and everything, the end disappointed me a little bit. It was an open end and I am not used to it. I get uncomfortable if I have to think and perceive what the characters do next.
The length is also small as compensating for a powerful storyline in 250 pages is a big deal. I recommend this to people who love thriller/mystery novels.
Inspired by true events... This line was sufficient for me to pick this book up. The writing style is impeccable. It's almost like the thrillers written by foreign authors. The story was engaging due to the writing style. The first half of the book somewhat lacked luster as the characters went about with their lockdown lives. As the book crossed 60%, I got hooked to my seat.
The author portrayed how present crimes are built on past mischiefs. Crimes can be inherited is what I felt after I read the story or so to say children learn from parents. Children especially teenagers can even multiply the mistakes committed by parents. I am so disgusted with the teenagers that I completely hate them now.
The writing style is so good that I don't have a favorite character in this book as all the characters had faults and it is really hard for me to not judge them and overlook their misdeeds. Although the story is fast-paced and engaging and everything, the end disappointed me a little bit. It was an open end and I am not used to it. I get uncomfortable if I have to think and perceive what the characters do next.
The length is also small as compensating for a powerful storyline in 250 pages is a big deal. I recommend this to people who love thriller/mystery novels.
August 20, 2022
This a fictional plot with suspense and thriller genre. The author has penned down a mesmerizing tale of a family of four members, during the first lockdown who have to stick together under one roof. The plot is set in one of the city of India itself.
The book holds in the tale of our lead characters, i.e. the four members of a family named Suvini, Mridul, Damien and Tara. The author has written down the background of each protagonist and enough attention has been given to the world built up in the plot which subsequently let the readers connect with each and every character presented in this plot and also grasp the essence of the book.
The narration of the book is kept simple and easy but it doesn’t compromise the suspense and thriller element of the plot, making it easier for a reader to relate with the character’s mind set along with a good steady pace of the plot. The factors, situations and circumstances captured in the plot are well explained and potraited plus each has been well highlighted each time. The author has chosen a recent timeline i.e. the first phase of COVID, when the whole country, India was in its first lockdown, which also captures the attention of mine. The plot has several characters involved in it yet each and every character has been given sufficient scope to contribute to the plot. Each character has an element of suspense to add to the plot and it was quite interesting to read as the author was able to put all of them in a well synchronised manner that indeed was a treat to read. The language used is lucid. It’s definitely worth reading for all the readers who want to grab a good thriller and something set in recent time.
The book holds in the tale of our lead characters, i.e. the four members of a family named Suvini, Mridul, Damien and Tara. The author has written down the background of each protagonist and enough attention has been given to the world built up in the plot which subsequently let the readers connect with each and every character presented in this plot and also grasp the essence of the book.
The narration of the book is kept simple and easy but it doesn’t compromise the suspense and thriller element of the plot, making it easier for a reader to relate with the character’s mind set along with a good steady pace of the plot. The factors, situations and circumstances captured in the plot are well explained and potraited plus each has been well highlighted each time. The author has chosen a recent timeline i.e. the first phase of COVID, when the whole country, India was in its first lockdown, which also captures the attention of mine. The plot has several characters involved in it yet each and every character has been given sufficient scope to contribute to the plot. Each character has an element of suspense to add to the plot and it was quite interesting to read as the author was able to put all of them in a well synchronised manner that indeed was a treat to read. The language used is lucid. It’s definitely worth reading for all the readers who want to grab a good thriller and something set in recent time.
August 21, 2022
“Is he alive?”
“I don’t know.”
“Look!”
“I cannot. I’m scared.”
“He moved.”
“No.”
“He’s alive.”
“No, he’s not.”
What happened in Golden heron apartment 33 stays in apartment 33 which belongs to Mridul Kakkar and Suvini Perez. Their children Damien and Tara are brats, a common speciality of rich kids.
It was March 2020 when the world was facing the novel SARS-CoV-2 and many people's lives got affected by it but it was proven good for the Kakkar. This family has a dark and unpredictable tale of secrets and the lengths they would go to save their family are immense.
When I was reading this book I remember the time when my family was covid positive including me and the conditions we faced at the same time listening to the news about so many people dying. I had lived the situation. It was very bad, many people were forced to leave their houses, and their daily bread was cut off due to this virus.
So back to the book, it felt so real reading it, but I think it was slow in the beginning, every time I came to any conclusion the story changed. But half of the story was pretty interesting and had me gripped. I want to say that I don't like the ending that left me hanging, that's not how the story should be ended.
Overall I think it is a good thriller book, the language used is lucid, i like the cover. If you are a beginner in this genre then this book is perfect.
My rating is ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I don’t know.”
“Look!”
“I cannot. I’m scared.”
“He moved.”
“No.”
“He’s alive.”
“No, he’s not.”
What happened in Golden heron apartment 33 stays in apartment 33 which belongs to Mridul Kakkar and Suvini Perez. Their children Damien and Tara are brats, a common speciality of rich kids.
It was March 2020 when the world was facing the novel SARS-CoV-2 and many people's lives got affected by it but it was proven good for the Kakkar. This family has a dark and unpredictable tale of secrets and the lengths they would go to save their family are immense.
When I was reading this book I remember the time when my family was covid positive including me and the conditions we faced at the same time listening to the news about so many people dying. I had lived the situation. It was very bad, many people were forced to leave their houses, and their daily bread was cut off due to this virus.
So back to the book, it felt so real reading it, but I think it was slow in the beginning, every time I came to any conclusion the story changed. But half of the story was pretty interesting and had me gripped. I want to say that I don't like the ending that left me hanging, that's not how the story should be ended.
Overall I think it is a good thriller book, the language used is lucid, i like the cover. If you are a beginner in this genre then this book is perfect.
My rating is ⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 29, 2022
🧐 Title - Shut the Lights
🧐 Genre - Suspense- Thriller
🧐 Author - Smita Bhattacharya
🧐 Shut the Lights is one of those novels which is a real-life story, protagonists are beautifully portrayed as well as you didn't realize when you turned the pages, and when its get finished.
🧐 Kakkars are an upper-middle-class family with two teenagers stuck in their house during the lockdown.
🧐 Nevertheless, the family from the utmost is uneven, damaged by heart which includes the crime and cheating with incredibly offending outcomes.
🧐 A spouse having always justification for herself, however, evolves feral if the same things happen to her.
🧐 This anecdote won't allow you to set off till the climax and it is only delayed on one recognising the slight annoyances that no one penalized verdict for what they have inflicted.
🧐 Overall, you will enjoy reading the book because everyone endured a hard time when there was a pandemic, however, this story is a bit complicated but after a while I thoroughly enjoyed it. The cover of the book is apt. Read the suspense nail-biter 🤓
🧐 Genre - Suspense- Thriller
🧐 Author - Smita Bhattacharya
🧐 Shut the Lights is one of those novels which is a real-life story, protagonists are beautifully portrayed as well as you didn't realize when you turned the pages, and when its get finished.
🧐 Kakkars are an upper-middle-class family with two teenagers stuck in their house during the lockdown.
🧐 Nevertheless, the family from the utmost is uneven, damaged by heart which includes the crime and cheating with incredibly offending outcomes.
🧐 A spouse having always justification for herself, however, evolves feral if the same things happen to her.
🧐 This anecdote won't allow you to set off till the climax and it is only delayed on one recognising the slight annoyances that no one penalized verdict for what they have inflicted.
🧐 Overall, you will enjoy reading the book because everyone endured a hard time when there was a pandemic, however, this story is a bit complicated but after a while I thoroughly enjoyed it. The cover of the book is apt. Read the suspense nail-biter 🤓
November 6, 2023
Interesting story with a novel way of revealing what's actually going on, and what ultimately happened and happens.
I loved that it was set in India; too much of what is easily accessible is so western in setting and experience it was lovely to be elsewhere.
I loved that it was set in India; too much of what is easily accessible is so western in setting and experience it was lovely to be elsewhere.
August 20, 2022
A thrilling and scary read about modern-day parenting gone wrong.
Full review: https://wp.me/p6XQyB-4dT
My rating: 4.3/5
Suvini and Mridul are parents to Damien, and Tara. They belong to the upper middle class and reside in a posh residential complex in Mumbai. When the lockdown hits, the kids refuse to come out of their bedroom except for meal times, which sows seeds of suspicion in Suvini's mind. Mridul however is sure that there's nothing to be worried about. When Suvini takes ill and all responsibilities befall Mridual, a lot of the things she suspected turn out to be true. What went on in the kids' room that has Mridul worried and Suvini almost wanting to leave the family?
Full review: https://wp.me/p6XQyB-4dT
My rating: 4.3/5
Suvini and Mridul are parents to Damien, and Tara. They belong to the upper middle class and reside in a posh residential complex in Mumbai. When the lockdown hits, the kids refuse to come out of their bedroom except for meal times, which sows seeds of suspicion in Suvini's mind. Mridul however is sure that there's nothing to be worried about. When Suvini takes ill and all responsibilities befall Mridual, a lot of the things she suspected turn out to be true. What went on in the kids' room that has Mridul worried and Suvini almost wanting to leave the family?
September 10, 2022
The writer of the book seems to be an old hand writing this psychological thriller .A thriller with lockdown during covid as a background !It is one of those books which builds upon the story , character at a break neck speed and you never know when you are turning the pages fast to know what is going to happen.
Kakkars are an upper middle class family with two teenage children stuck up in their home during lockdown.Seems inoccuous and we all had experieneced it.However this normal family from outside is a twisted , broken one from inside in which all four characters of kakkars hide secrets from each other .
It is shocking however that how these teenagers are portrayed as if their depraved act ddoesnt ean a thing.
Twisted characters , hypocrisy incarnates , psychos inhabit this story.
This story wont let you go off till the end and life goes on normal for them as if nothing happened
Kakkars are an upper middle class family with two teenage children stuck up in their home during lockdown.Seems inoccuous and we all had experieneced it.However this normal family from outside is a twisted , broken one from inside in which all four characters of kakkars hide secrets from each other .
It is shocking however that how these teenagers are portrayed as if their depraved act ddoesnt ean a thing.
Twisted characters , hypocrisy incarnates , psychos inhabit this story.
This story wont let you go off till the end and life goes on normal for them as if nothing happened
October 1, 2022
Shut the Lights by Smita Bhattacharya is the tale of a family from Mumbai's upper middle class and the secrets every member has hidden.
The writer has captured the essence of the lockdown and what Suvini, a mother and wife is going through. The tension, the exhaustion, the part where it just feels like she is unwanted, not at all appreciated and utterly disrespected due to her presence and work in the household not being acknowledged.
The writer has captured the essence of those emotions on a woman's part very stunningly.
The plot unfolds so slowly, with so much suspense, dropping little hints of the fact that something is going on, something that has happened in the past, it is just so eerie and so suspenseful, I just loved it.
Coming to what I did not like was how slow it unfolds and when I was expecting more it just ends. I was left feeling unsatisfied. The rest of everything was great.
Will recommend it to those who enjoy reading thrillers. Looking forward to reading more from the author.
The writer has captured the essence of the lockdown and what Suvini, a mother and wife is going through. The tension, the exhaustion, the part where it just feels like she is unwanted, not at all appreciated and utterly disrespected due to her presence and work in the household not being acknowledged.
The writer has captured the essence of those emotions on a woman's part very stunningly.
The plot unfolds so slowly, with so much suspense, dropping little hints of the fact that something is going on, something that has happened in the past, it is just so eerie and so suspenseful, I just loved it.
Coming to what I did not like was how slow it unfolds and when I was expecting more it just ends. I was left feeling unsatisfied. The rest of everything was great.
Will recommend it to those who enjoy reading thrillers. Looking forward to reading more from the author.
January 19, 2024
I had a hard time with this, honestly....
I really struggled with the sharp dialogue that felt impersonal, however I have read that the dialogue in this book is perfectly normal in the Indian culture. I just felt like there were no feelings and that was so hard for me to feel anything if the characters weren't.... I normally finish a book in a day or 2 at most, but this took me over a week because I was just so bored with it.
I really struggled with the sharp dialogue that felt impersonal, however I have read that the dialogue in this book is perfectly normal in the Indian culture. I just felt like there were no feelings and that was so hard for me to feel anything if the characters weren't.... I normally finish a book in a day or 2 at most, but this took me over a week because I was just so bored with it.
January 21, 2023
I’m always interested to read books that are set during the pandemic. Especially during lockdown. I guess it just feels like this is the real world now. Plus I’m interested in how other people experienced lockdown. Even in other countries.
The story revolves around a family of 4 in lockdown in India. I know, it sounds boring but they all have secrets which are slowly revealed.
I find it interesting that it’s based on a true story but I fail to work out how after reading the ending 🤷♀️
The story revolves around a family of 4 in lockdown in India. I know, it sounds boring but they all have secrets which are slowly revealed.
I find it interesting that it’s based on a true story but I fail to work out how after reading the ending 🤷♀️
December 13, 2024
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book but wow am I glad that I read it! I think it was from a Stuff Your Kindle Day? I’m not sure but I’m happy that I had it on my kindle. It took me two days to read through it and the author really had a way of taking me back to 2020. The ending was great and unexpected. I highly recommend this as a read for any thriller lover.
April 6, 2023
A stifling, claustrophobic psychological thriller.
A disturbing story without any redeeming characters.
A disturbing story without any redeeming characters.
October 25, 2023
It was a struggle
I barely finished this. I only did to find out what happened but it was really a waste of time.
I barely finished this. I only did to find out what happened but it was really a waste of time.
January 11, 2024
Not total junk, but every character was unlikable and the plot was pretty thin.
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