This book had me gripped – and for all the right reasons!
Being from Ireland, I love books from local authors that embrace the local areas and character types. For me this book, really had it all – lovable characters, a challenging storyline and some twists and turns a long the way!
When Nell Sweeney, a young nurse with a seemingly ordinary life, disappears on her way home from work, the dark world of misogyny and incel culture comes to the fore in a outwardly quiet part of Ireland.
The format of the book, and the fact it is written from the perspective of different characters – including a potential suspect – gives it a real depth full while also making it quite an unsettling and, at points, disturbing read.
At times a difficult read but Claire has broached the subject of incel culture and misogyny in a very delicate manner. One that delves into the darkness in a way that does not promote but rather exposes some of the internal thoughts of those who buy into this narrative, and the dangers it perpetuates.
In my everyday, I work in an organisation that deals with the subject matter within this story regularly, and I found the blurb by the author on her motivations and research into producing this book really interesting. As an aspiring writer I am always interested in the ways in which an author researches and decides on a topic. The background to this story is a really worthwhile read and I definitely recommend anyone (and everyone) to read it!
Overall, this was a gripping page turner that also made space to pull on the heartstrings.
Would definitely recommend!!
Wee Bubble of Books 