Show Me 5 Saturday:A Year To Learn A Woman by Paddy Richardson

Currently hosted by Jenners at Find Your Next Book Here

1 Book I read : A Year To Learn a Woman by Paddy Richardson

2 Words that describe the book : Psychological suspense

3 Settings where it took place and/or characters met:

1. The book is set in present day New Zealand.

2. The main characters are Claire and her 16 year-old daughter Annie. Claire is a freelance journalist who is asked to write a book telling the story of a convicted serial sex offender while Annie becomes involved with an American student , Savannah, new to her school.

3. Travis Crill - the quiet, privileged young man who no one would have suspected could commit such crimes.

4 Things I liked and/or disliked about it:

1. I liked the New Zealand setting and that it was written by an NZ author- it makes a nice change to read about places you're familiar with.

2. I liked the quiet way the suspense built up. At first I thought the story seemed to be too much about Claire and Annie's personal relationship but really it's not. Their stories are separate but connected by the fact that each of them comes under the influence of a destructive and controlling person who is outwardly charming and friendly. They both begin by thinking they are in control of their lives but as the story develops each of them discovers how they've been deceived and it all builds to a terrifying climax.

3. I liked the first person narrative from different characters. Not only Claire, Annie and Travis but also some of Travis's victims tell of their horrifying encounters with him. Serial rape isn't a pleasant subject but it's not presented in too graphic a way and gives the reader enough to feel understanding and sympathy.

4. I liked the writing style and the pace- it certainly kept me turning the pages

5 Stars or less for my rating:

I'm giving it 4 Stars - overall I thought it was very good and I will be looking out for her next book which I understand has just been published.

Suspense/Thriller Challenge