I received this novel as an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Before this novel, I had never heard of Chevy Stevens. After reading this novel, I’m a fan!
Lindsay Nash left an abusive relationship with her ex-husband 11 years ago. During that time, he has been in jail, leaving Lindsay the perfect opportunity to start her life over with their daughter. Now, she has her own business and a teenage daughter who she would do anything to protect. When Lindsay receives news that her husband has been released, she knows she has to be careful; she doesn’t want him finding her or her daughter again. But she gets the sense that she is being watched constantly, and things begin happening to her that remind her of the marriage she left behind. Lindsay is convinced that it is her ex-husband, even as he claims that he is a changed man. But can she believe his words now?
One of the things I really liked about this novel was the way in which it approached the topic of spousal abuse. The scenarios that the author depicted gave me a sick feeling in my stomach. I had such a strong reaction to the scenes of abuse and fear that Lindsay had to go through, because it was so vividly and accurately depicted. It captured every essence of it and didn’t hold back on any details. Having it presented in this way meant that I was forced to face the reality that abuse happens and it happens often. It can happen to me and it can happen to those I love and care about. It just made a very strong impression in my mind as I read the story. I liked the flow of the story, the different characters that were introduced, and the overall writing style. I didn’t get that much of a thrill and the ending was quite easy to figure out, but this did not detract from the story itself. Overall, a powerful story about domestic violence and the paranoia that comes from living through such a horrendous situation, as well as the strength that can come from defending oneself and moving on.
Happy reading ~