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Content snapshot
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Violence
Some
A child abduction is the central crime; violence is implied rather than shown in graphic detail
Language
Some
Some strong language in the British crime fiction register
Sexual Content
Barely any
Minimal sexual content
Substance Use
None
No substance use
Emotional Intensity
A lot
The psychology of a woman complicit in her husband's crimes through silence — and the moral weight of that complicity — is the novel's most disturbing element
What this book is about
Fiona Barton's debut thriller follows Jean Taylor, the widow of a man who was the prime suspect in the abduction of a toddler. When her husband dies, Jean is finally free to speak — and what she knows might finally solve the case. The novel interweaves Jean's perspective with those of the detective and journalist pursuing the story. A psychological crime thriller built on the question of what a wife knows and chooses not to know. The crime involves a child, which gives the novel particular emotional weight.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Child abduction as central crime
Psychological complicity in possible crimes
Reader Verification
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