Charlie and Chloe are eight-year-old twins who are still reeling from the loss of their mum when their dad, Graham, brings home Lynne, and tells them she is going to be their new mummy. They will also have a new brother, Saul, age thirteen, and sister Evie, age fifteen. Charlie is immediately suspicious and reminds Chloe that Lynne was the nurse who made their mum cry.
Graham believes he is doing a good thing in saving Lynne and her family from the rough estate they came from, but it isn’t long before you wonder at the truth of their background or indeed anything that comes out of the manipulative Lynne’s mouth.
The ensuing breakdown of the family shows how powerless children are and I became angry on their behalf, and frustrated at the unfairness of it all. That it evokes such emotions shows how good the writing is.
Barrow knows family and relationships and that is evident throughout this page-turner, which will have you rooting for your favourite characters. There is lightness to balance the dark and of course always the hope that the truly evil will get their comeuppance.
Beautifully written and excellently paced, The Stranger in My House is yet another triumph from Barrow and without hesitation I recommend it to all who enjoy suspenseful storytelling from an author who knows her craft.
Judith just keeps writing these amazing family dramas! A super review, Georgia.
Thanks for reading, Darlene, and you’re right, she really does. 🙂
Thank you so much, Darlene. It’s kind of you to say so.
Georgia, thank you so much. I’ve been away for a couple of days ( a workshop and a talk) so missed this wonderful surprise. So chuffed!! x
You’re welcome, Judith.