Weirdly, this is my second book in a row featuring a gated community (after Jo Spain’s Dirty Little Secrets). The two stories don’t have much in common though, aside from the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed reading both. I’ve read several Kerry Fisher novels now so was expecting an engrossing and sometimes emotional read, and wasn’t disappointed.

The story focuses on three women who have just moved to the newly built estate: paramedic Kate, with her teenage daughter Daisy; stay at home mother Gisela; and Sally, who has a successful globetrotting career and child-free lifestyle with husband Chris. None of their lives, though, are quite how they appear from the outside. Kate is clearly hiding from something or someone. Gisela’s husband and children all have less than welcome surprises in store. And Sally’s glamorous lifestyle belies her real feelings.

I’ll admit my heart sank a bit when all the Facebook stuff started, as I feel the whole “gulf between what people post on social media about their lives versus the actual reality of them” business has been a bit done to death by now. I’m not very interested in social media and am baffled by the desire to constantly post show-offy photos with irritating hashtags. That said, it’s handled effectively here and with a light touch.

Kerry Fisher really draws you into and makes you care about the lives of her characters, with some genuinely emotional moments. No spoilers! Kate’s secret, when revealed, is gut-wrenching, and I liked her the best of the three women. An excellent read.