Holy sh*t this book was INCREDIBLE. Before I dive into the plot (no spoilers!) and why I loved this book, just know, that if you’re looking for your next suspenseful read, this is it. I literally could not put it down. Gobbled up in basically one sitting (and two beers).
THE JUICY PLOT
The Couple Next Door is about Marco and Anne, a married couple living in New York City with their six month old daughter, Cora. Marco and Anne had plans to attend a dinner party, at their next door neighbors house, one particular Friday evening. After their babysitter cancels last-minute, Marco and Anne make the executive decision to leave their baby home alone, and keep their plans. [Gasp!] What could go wrong? They took the baby monitor next door with them, and every half hour, took turns checking on Cora. She’d be fine, they said, what could go wrong, they said. Well, when they came home, Cora was missing. Kidnapped. Whoops! Once the police arrive at the home, and conduct a thorough search and investigation, they conclude that there were no signs of forced entry. There were no signs of anyone other than Marco and Anne inside the house. What on earth happened? Where is Cora?!
WHY I COULDN’T PUT IT DOWN
The writing is gripping and utterly suspenseful. From page one. My jaw hit the floor when the first twist was revealed, and then again for the second, and then again for the third twist. This book had so many twists and turns, and really and truly threw you in for a loop. Totally nail biting. None of it was predictable (well, maybe the first twist), and just so well written. Meaning, it was perfectly paced. Right from the beginning, all the way through the final pages. KUDOS Shari Lapena for such a mind blowing debut novel. I would absolutely read anything else this woman writes, and strongly suggest you read The Couple Next Door. I guarantee you this will be a book you see praise for around the internet for a long time coming…
If you’ve already read it, I want to hear your thoughts! Any suggestions for a similarly paced thriller?