Loved this book, relatable characters, fab writing style & plenty twists & turns what more can you ask for. Look forward to reading more by this author. Thanks for the preview.

First read of this author. Really enjoyed this, twisty and taut and a solid read. Thank you for the chance to review it.

I received a copy of this book through netgalley and absolutely loved it.
The story describes a very relatable middle class mother ( Connie) pushed to the brink of sanity by the people she trusts most. In a bid to survive her actions she shuts down her mind and it is up to no-nonsense forensic psychiatrist, Emma to unlock her mind and help her accept responsibility. What Emma and the reader does not bargain for is how incredibly self aware and rational Connie is despite current circumstances. Her humor, her ability to read people and her underlying love for her family floors Emma and in turn the reader. Yes, as per the title and the blurb, the story begins with the friendship between Connie and her best friend, Nessa but I think the crux of the story is actually the relationship that grows between patient and psychiatrist, one that often crosses the bounds of professionalism.

I loved Natalie Daniel’s journalistic style of writing. Very Lionel Shriver like. The story told mostly from Connie and Emma’s perspectives but with excerpts from the child Annie’s eyes was sheer genious, I thought. By the end of the book, I couldn’t help feeling sorry for Connie and yet admiring her for her ability to reach towards that elusive point of forgiveness both for herself and for her nemesis. There were several points where the authors observations of marriage and motherhood, made me self reflect and find myself in surprising agreement! Altogether a very enjoyable book with a hope filled ending.