The book grips you from the first page. One daughter goes missing, and it is revealed that she is, in fact, adopted. But also that her natural mother is a serial killer. There are plenty of twists and turns that keep the suspense in this great novel. And the last couple of pages made me gasp with surprise!
However, with the exception of the serial killer, the characters aren't well drawn; I didn't feel invested in their dramas. I would highly recommend this book. Perfect as a Summer holiday read.
Thank you to Netgalley for letting me have a digital copy in return for giving an unbiased review.

Kat loves her daughters, Imogen and Jemima. Along with her husband, they are the best things in her life. But while she adores Jemima wholeheartedly, she has always felt concern when it comes to Imogen. She may appear like the perfect 16 year old, but her heritage hides a dark secret, and Kat is terrified that her perfect family might be about to fall apart. Because Imogen's biological parents are serial killers, and much as Kat would hate to admit it, she worries about who her beloved daughter will become. Nature or nurture - which is strongest? Kat is about to find out...

I absolutely love these kinds of thrillers - quick and easy reads that lure you in immediately and make you want to finish it all in one sitting. Plot wise, I won't be commenting, as I really feel like its one that you're better off reading a bit blind (that way you get to fully appreciate the twists and turns along the way!). What I will say is that it is very unusual, and really stands out against others in the genre.

I also thought that the writing was really strong. Croft makes great use of a dual narrative structure, alternating between the POV of mum Kat and her adoptive daughter Imogen, as well as some chapters from the perspective of Imogen's biological mother Sally. Sally's chapters are particularly harrowing, and offer a terrifying insight into the mind of a serial killer. It was also really interesting to read some sections set in the past which reflect on the complexities of how Kat and Dylan made the decision to adopt the child of a murderer, as well as reading the present day chapters which show how Imogen's past have influenced how Kat treats her.

This was a really unique and interesting read, that reflected on a range of complex issues. To what extent does your heritage determine your fate? Can you ever truly escape the horrors of a traumatic past? Or is your path destined even from birth? I absolutely loved this book, and I would definitely recommend it to those who enjoy a good thriller and a quick and enjoyable read. I can't wait to see what she produces next!

Disclaimer - I was lucky enough to be provided with an advance reading copy by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.

I really like this book. Its witty and engaging, and I was left absolutely floored by the ending. The clues were there, but the reader is really cleverly led down the 'I know how this is going to end' path.

I’m leaving a middle star review because this book didn’t work for me but that doesn’t mean it’s not for you!

Too slow a start, if a book can’t grip me in the first 10% then it’s not worth my time.

Quite a chilling read but very hard to get into. If you don't mind the slow starters and having to read some lines a few times then give this book a try. If not then like me you'll probably want to give it a miss.

Thank you NetGalley for this advanced copy. This book was well written: twists, suspense, keeps you guessing etc. everything a psychological thriller should have. But it just wasn't for me. It was creepy, unsettling and I just didn't care for it. But if you really like twisted and messed up, this is for you!

hat a fantastic book. @elle_croft does it again! Every book she has written, I’ve loved and this one did not disappoint
Kat has two daughters, Imogen and Jemima. She treats them both equally. However, Imogen’s birth mum is a serial killer and Imogen’s past is about to catch up with her! It is up to Kat to save both of her daughters.
Wow, wow and wow 😲
This book has all the components of a great psychological thriller. The short snappy chapters told from different perspectives literally have you guessing a to what has happened and hoping that Imogen will be saved
There is a huge twist at the end which I did not guess
The book is intriguing, fast paced and overall a great read.
I cannot wait for more by the author!