The Perfect Family - Shalini Boland

Reading Challenge Category: Fancied a short and gripping Psych Thriller

Official Blurb:

‘Mummy, she’s gone…’
Gemma Ballantine is getting ready for work one morning when her eldest child comes running down the stairs, saying the words every mother dreads.
The front door is open. And her six-year-old daughter has disappeared. Frantic with fear, Gemma starts a nail-biting search for her little girl.
After what feels like forever, her mother-in-law Diane finds Katie wandering lost a few streets away. Relieved to have her youngest child back in her arms, breathing in the sweet scent of her hair, Gemma thinks the nightmare is over.
But then her perfect family starts to fall apart.
And she realises it’s only just beginning…

My Thoughts:

The Perfect Family by Shalini Boland is a fast-paced and gripping novel that had me hooked right from the start. This intriguing story unfolds with a swift pace, leaving no room for dull moments or unnecessary fluff. Boland's writing style is concise and to the point, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a quick and absorbing read.
The plot revolves around a seemingly ideal family whose lives take a dark and twisted turn. As the story progresses, layers of secrets and hidden motives are revealed, keeping the reader on their toes throughout. I found myself constantly guessing and trying to piece together the puzzle, eager to uncover the truth behind the family's facade.
Although I must admit, my sharp instincts allowed me to guess who was ultimately behind it all just a minute before the big revelation. Nonetheless, this did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story. Boland skilfully weaves together the threads of the narrative, ensuring a satisfying and well-rounded conclusion.
The Perfect Family serves as a perfect escape for those seeking a "chewing gum for the brain" read. It provided me with the ideal distraction, offering an engaging storyline that allowed me to switch off from the outside world for a while. Sometimes, all we need is a book that grabs our attention and keeps us entertained, and Boland delivers just that.
In summary, The Perfect Family is a gripping, fast-paced novel that is sure to captivate readers from start to finish. While I managed to unravel the mystery just moments before the grand reveal, the overall story was excellently brought together. Shalini Boland delivers a compelling tale that provides the perfect balance of escapism and entertainment. If you're in the mood for a quick and absorbing read, The Perfect Family is exactly what you need.