A review by chapters_and_pages
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

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

4.0

This was my second Shari Lapena book and it’s safe to say, it won’t be my last. 

With a dinner party to attend and a babysitter who has cancelled, Anne and Marco decide to leave their 6-month-old baby at home. After all, they are just next door, and check in on her regularly, what’s the worst that can happen? Returning home in the early hours to an unlocked door and a missing baby, the couple’s worst nightmare has come true. 

I really did enjoy this book, it was different than the other mystery/thrillers I have read. In terms of the characters, no one was particularly likeable, but to be honest, I think that was kind of the point. 

The storyline was a little predictable for me, but that might just be me as I tend to connect the dots of these types of books quite quickly. 

One thing I’m noticing about Shari Lapena’s books is that, based on the two books I’ve read, she tends to give them an open ending, leaving the reader to imagine what happens next. Normally, I wouldn’t really be a fan of this, however I think in these cases it works really well!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by Shari Lapena. 
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