A review by taliatalksbooks
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena was interesting, but I felt like it could have gone further with its interpersonal ties. I didn’t feel as though the title was representative of the content, which is not the worst offense a book can have, but is worth noting in this case. I liked the complexity of this plot and the way it unfolded, but the connection with the other couple after the initial dinner feels more like an afterthought than it did necessary. I didn’t feel as though these characters supplied much to the overarching plot between our main characters. Maybe if the narration was shifted, or the twist was revealed a bit differently I wouldn’t feel this way, but as it stands, it just felt like it was missing something. I did enjoy the plot, and the way the investigation pushed the story in new directions. I actually liked it so much that I wish there had been more of that throughout the story. If you’re a fan of thrillers with investigative components, then I would say to check this one out, especially if you like the perspective of the victims or prime suspects rather than the investigator. 
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