A review by lydiavsbooks
The Turn of the Key, by Ruth Ware
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.5
This was overall a very enjoyable, fast and intriguing read. Very fun and I'm glad I read it but I do have a few criticisms.
Firstly, I personally wanted more spookyness. There were some scenes that seemed like they were trying to be scary, but just weren't doing it for me. I wanted the creepy elements to just be a little more. The threatening messages written out in alphabetti spaghetti, as an example.
Secondly, the main character did get on my nerves at times. I found myself getting very frustrated with how clueless she was with the kids, especially for someone with nannying experience. The frequent switch between hmmm Jack seems dodgy and but he do be cute tho also got a little old a little fast.
The end explanation felt a little rushed, but still enjoyed it. I feel like I've been overly harsh here, it's just always easier to pick out criticisms for some reason.
That said, I really did enjoy it. I loved Ellie as a character in particular, the idea of the poison garden and the history behind that (I'd happily read a whole seperate book about that). I enjoyed and appreciated the themes touched upon, such as misogyny, complex family dynamics, potentially grooming etc. I'm kind of torn between wishing these were explored more, and appreciating that maybe this just wasn't the place for these discussions. Either way I appreciate that they were included.
And most important of all, we needed more of the dogs please
Firstly, I personally wanted more spookyness. There were some scenes that seemed like they were trying to be scary, but just weren't doing it for me. I wanted the creepy elements to just be a little more. The threatening messages written out in alphabetti spaghetti, as an example.
Secondly, the main character did get on my nerves at times. I found myself getting very frustrated with how clueless she was with the kids, especially for someone with nannying experience. The frequent switch between hmmm Jack seems dodgy and but he do be cute tho also got a little old a little fast.
The end explanation felt a little rushed, but still enjoyed it. I feel like I've been overly harsh here, it's just always easier to pick out criticisms for some reason.
That said, I really did enjoy it. I loved Ellie as a character in particular, the idea of the poison garden and the history behind that (I'd happily read a whole seperate book about that). I enjoyed and appreciated the themes touched upon, such as misogyny, complex family dynamics, potentially grooming etc. I'm kind of torn between wishing these were explored more, and appreciating that maybe this just wasn't the place for these discussions. Either way I appreciate that they were included.
And most important of all, we needed more of the dogs please
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abandonment, Adult/minor relationship, Child death, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Misogyny and Sexual harassment