the couple next door book review

2 min read 23-11-2024

Meta Description: Dive into my review of Shari Lapena's "The Couple Next Door," a suspenseful psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Discover the twists, turns, and shocking revelations that make this a must-read for fans of domestic suspense. Unravel the secrets hidden behind the seemingly perfect facade of a suburban couple. Find out why this book is both captivating and frustrating.

A Night of Unthinkable Choices

Shari Lapena’s The Couple Next Door immediately grabs your attention with its premise: a seemingly ordinary suburban couple, Marco and Anne, leaves their baby, Cora, alone for a short while. When they return, Cora is gone. The ensuing investigation exposes the cracks in their seemingly perfect lives, and the lives of their neighbors, the seemingly idyllic, yet strangely secretive, Sarah and Connor.

Suspense and Suspicion from the Start

The novel is structured around multiple perspectives, primarily Anne and Marco's, alongside accounts from Detective Michael and his partner. This narrative strategy keeps the reader constantly guessing. Each character harbors secrets, adding layers of suspicion. Lapena masterfully weaves together these viewpoints, creating a compelling tapestry of deceit and uncertainty. The initial mystery surrounding Cora's disappearance is compelling. The author skillfully crafts tension, making you question the reliability of every character.

Unraveling the Mystery: A Slow Burn

While the initial mystery is gripping, the pace of the unraveling can feel slow at times. The constant shifts in perspective, while contributing to the suspense, can also feel slightly disorienting. Some readers might find themselves frustrated by the gradual reveal of information. The book relies heavily on building suspense through implication and red herrings.

The Characters: Complex and Complicated

Anne and Marco: The central couple is far from perfect. Their flaws and insecurities are central to the plot, making them both sympathetic and frustrating characters. Their relationship feels realistic, with its complexities and vulnerabilities laid bare.
Sarah and Connor: The neighbors add another layer of intrigue. Their secretive behavior and seemingly perfect exterior hide a darker truth. The contrast between their outward appearance and their inner lives fuels the suspense.
Detective Michael: His investigation provides a crucial external perspective, adding a layer of professionalism to the unfolding drama. His insights help to unravel the secrets, while also adding his own personal drama to the storyline.

Twists and Turns: A Satisfying (Mostly) Conclusion

The Couple Next Door delivers on its promise of twists and turns. Lapena expertly manipulates the reader's expectations, offering several surprising reveals. However, while the ending provides a satisfactory resolution to the core mystery, some might find certain aspects slightly predictable or unconvincing.

Is It Worth the Read?

Despite its pacing issues and slightly predictable elements, The Couple Next Door remains a highly engaging read. The compelling mystery, complex characters, and suspenseful atmosphere more than compensate for its flaws. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with plenty of twists and turns, this book is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a slow burn and a few moments of frustration along the way. It's a perfect book for a long weekend—you won't want to put it down!

Similar Books You Might Enjoy:

Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The Guest List by Lucy Fokley

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