Set in a mental asylum, The Other Girl is exactly what you want from its synopsis and cover: it’s an atmospheric and immersive mystery with dark undertones and investing characters.

Told through three timelines – Then, Now, and Before – the stories come together to reveal truths about both the past and present. And although there are three of them, the story never feels too confusing or overwhelming. It develops slowly which some readers may not enjoy, but I was intrigued throughout.

I enjoyed the final twist which is played in brilliantly, but most of all I love the ideas that Major researched into to build her story around. The concept of reincarnation is really interesting and handled well, not being too preachy or too ambiguous, and suited the setting and time period perfectly.

I felt so much sympathy for Edith which is what kept me so gripped. Declan is also really likeable, but the only thing that I didn’t like about the story was the possible romantic connection between the two of them. I recently read The Silent Patient, and having the doctor feel attracted to his patient because of her naivety just leaves me feeling a little uncomfortable.

I would have much preferred it if Declan was just passionate about his job and wanted to do the right thing. Obviously he was feeling this too, but the comments on her beauty should have been irrelevant. This was only a very small feature in the story, though, so it was easy to let slide.

Eerie with its paranormal elements, The Other Girl is a well-developed story and intelligently written. As a debut novel, I’m certainly impressed and will be sure to look out for more from C.D. Major in the future.