Ebook: 343 pages
Genre: Thriller, Domestic Drama, Psychological Thriller, Domestic Thriller,
Publisher: Quercus Books, July 2026,
Source: NetGalley
First Sentence: From the moment Kate realised the commotion in the room was not the crowd simply revelling in the party, it was as though someone had slipped their foot onto the accelerator pedal.
Review Quote: A pacy and sharply observed thriller about the precariousness of 'school gate' friendships and the lengths we'll go to to protect our externally perfect veneers. Fans of Liane Moriarty will want to dive right in! — Lizzy Barber
My Opinion:
A debut novel that I chose to read as it sounded like it had the potential to be an entertaining domestic thriller.
The novel revolves around the friendship of the female protagonists Kate and Melody as they navigate their seemingly perfect life styles. As the new friends get to know each other tensions mount as everyone around them, including themselves seem to be hiding secrets. The two women are both vulnerable in different ways to the dramas unfolding in their respective lives.
Rather slow in parts and did not for me deliver the pace I expect from a thriller. Nevertheless a readable character driven story if you are looking for an easy read.
With thanks to NetGalley, the author and Quercus Books for the opportunity to read and review.
Précis Courtesy of Goodreads:
One summer's day. Two families. Countless secrets . . .
Kate is new to the idyllic village of Fletching. She's determined this move will be a fresh start for her family, though she misses her old life.
Melody has it she's as beautiful as her house, with a wealthy husband and two beloved children. But she'd love a friend she can rely on.
From the year's first school run, Kate and Melody grow close - a friendship formed during playdates and shared glasses of wine.
But when Melody's annual summer party turns into every parent's worst nightmare, a near-fatal accident threatens to expose secrets both women have kept beneath the surface.
Who is really to blame? And what have they been hiding?
Author Profile:
Photo and Bio Courtesy of Amazon
Rebecca Bainbridge is a new and exciting voice in the domestic suspense genre. For readers of Liane Moriarty, Lucy Foley and Lisa Jewell, and lovers of character-driven family drama, Rebecca is a debut author whose experience as a global brand and marketing professional provides her with an insight into gaining and retaining attention, and the very best storytelling.
Rebecca has led projects for organisations including Procter & Gamble, Warner Brothers, the BBC and Unilever. Having lived in Switzerland, France and Italy, she is passionate about languages, travel and culture, and is settled in the UK.
Photographs and Biographical Information courtesy of the following sites:
Goodreads Author Profile. Amazon Author Page. Facebook Author Page.