Sunday 21 February 2016

Between You and Me - Lisa Hall



They say every marriage has its secrets.
But no one sees what happens behind closed doors.
And sometimes those doors should never be opened …
Sal and Charlie are married. They love each other. But they aren’t happy. Sal cannot leave, no matter what Charlie does – no matter how much it hurts.

What did I think?
Wow!  This book was absolutely brilliant, unputdownable and a top psychological thriller - if this doesn't make it to number 1 in 2016 I will be most surprised.  The narrative on the front of the book mentions a twist that you won't see coming, so I was on high alert looking for clues as to what this twist could be.  I wouldn't have spotted it in a million years, proving just what a clever lady Lisa Hall is.  I was rapidly approaching the end and suddenly went 'huh?', flicking back over the previous pages until the penny dropped.  Bravo, Lisa!

I was hooked immediately as chapters went back and forth between the perspectives of Sal and Charlie.  Each character had their own unique voice; the abuser justifying their actions and the abused blaming themselves.  There are some parts of the book that are difficult to read due to the domestic violence; it's not too graphic but it did make my stomach clench on numerous occasions.

Spectacular twist aside, this book really gets to grips with domestic violence.  The abused blaming themselves and fearing that nobody will believe them so they have no option but to stay and brace themselves for the next blow.  The abuser using guilt to make their partner stay with them and making them feel worthless at every opportunity.  It certainly gives an insight into such relationships when as bystanders we always ask 'why don't they just leave?'

It's hard to believe that this is a debut novel; Between You and Me is simply amazing - I'd give it 10 stars if I could.  This is definitely going to be a huge hit in 2016 and I hope Lisa Hall puts pen to paper for many more years to come.

I received this e-book from the publisher, Carina, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:




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