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A review by kshertz
Before She Knew Him by Peter Swanson
challenging
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Excellent read until the very very end! It really explored many different views with mental health.
It explains gaslighting of those with mental illness very well. I think some aspects of Identifying with the enemy as well. I loved the big reveal and shocking twist. But then… it keep going? It kind of loses steam by doing that and it brought it down a star for me because there was no need to then return again to Dustin Miller and things before the big reveal? Anyways, definitely worth a read.
It explains gaslighting of those with mental illness very well. I think some aspects of Identifying with the enemy as well. I loved the big reveal and shocking twist. But then… it keep going? It kind of loses steam by doing that and it brought it down a star for me because there was no need to then return again to Dustin Miller and things before the big reveal? Anyways, definitely worth a read.
Content Warnings
Minor: Body horror, Death, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Torture, Violence, Blood, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , Gaslighting, and Injury/Injury detail