totallytales's Reviews (1.9k)

A twisty creepy psychological thriller set in a tiny coastal town. Brilliantly narrated, this engaging read will keep you guessing till the very end.⠀


Filled with unpredictable, unreliable and for the most part unlikeable characters... But I love a dysfunctional cast, trying to guess what is really going on and what the motivates are. I guessed the some but others I didn't see coming! ⠀
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It missed out on 5

This novel stole my heart - it's absolutely incredible!

The writing is utterly captivating, lose yourself in the journey of Frank & Maggie's relationship. I simply could not put it down.

Buried secrets, misunderstandings and underneath it all a true all-consuming love you really believe in, these authentic characters will take you on an emotional rollercoaster.

A fantastic debut, I can't wait to see what Greaves comes up with next. This worthy title deserves a spot on everyone's shelf!

Ps. Do grab some tissues before you curl with it, its sure to break your heart it definitely did mine.

Thanks to Anne Cater & Netgalley for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I loved this novel! It is the perfect escape from reality. Curl up in your favourite spot and get wrapped up in the lives of the residents of Heartcross Lane.

The idyllic setting, the cottage of dreams and characters that you are instantly attached to. The kinda that are charming but not without their faults, after all, they are only human.

Packed with warmth, humour & heart, this is one feel-good book you will not want to miss perfect for fans of Katie Fforde and Heidi Swain.

Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources & Netgalley for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Oh my gosh! Where do I start? It is funny, feisty & full of heart seriously don't miss it!

Full disclosure, I was really worried this book wouldn't meet the lofty heights I hold The Flatshare to (best read of 2019! to be reread & treasured on my forever shelf!) but I am over the moon to report those worries were unfounded and The Switch completely blew me away and now holds the title of my best 2020 read so far!

It is absolutely perfect! O'Leary weaves another fabulous totally unique tale that sweeps you up into the lives of Eileen & Leena, the whole cast of characters are superb! - they have real substance and will no doubt find a way into your heart, even grumpy old Arnold! (& a couple will find their way into your bad books).

I laughed, I cried and above all, I was left feeling uplifted with that warm fuzzy glow inside wondering if it was too soon to reread it. The Switch is going right next to The Flatshare on my treasure forever shelf. I cannot wait to see what O'Leary comes up with next! ....how long do we have to wait for book 3?

Honestly, if there is only one book you read this year make sure it is this one! It envelops you into a community you didn't know you needed to be part of, it will steal your heart and stay will you long after the last page.

Thanks to Quercus & Netgalley for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Clever, captivating & compelling read!

This original plot is a fascinating portrait of Ireland in 1996. Told from multiple viewpoints, all four narrators are convincing and memorable. Though I was particularly fond of Una's character, I enjoyed seeing her adapt and grow throughout the novel.

The mystery weaved throughout kept me turning the pages to reveal the secrets and the twists were expertly placed and kept the momentum, there was never a dull moment.

This book is completely genre-defying, there are lots of points to discuss, this would make a perfect book club pick!

Thanks to Anne Cater & Atlantic Books for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect escapism - I absolutely loved this novel, the scenery is idyllic and the food sounds scrumptious!

The storytelling is beautiful, I was completely absorbed in the lives of Becky, Petra, and Elias. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and a few more poignant ones too, you'll soon be hooked, torn between reading it as fast a possible so can see how it all turns out and not wanting it to end.

This perfect rich, warm and sunny read a fabulous story to lose yourself in, especially in these crazy times.

Thanks to Aria Fiction & Netgalley for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A fresh and fascinating psychological thriller, that had me gripped from its opening chapter!

Bloom & Jameson are both compelling, engaging characters who I thought were a great pairing and their exchanges brought some light humour to a serious plot.

It just missed out on 5⭐ because I guessed the twists before the big reveal but I still enjoyed this well-paced thriller.

Overall a fabulous debut, a completely original and creepy plot, with great characters. I can't wait to see where Deakin takes Bloom & Jameson next! If you are a fan of M J Arlidge this book is well worth a read.

Thanks to Black Swan & Netgalley for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.

⭐⭐⭐⭐