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Watching You

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'Watching You' by Lisa Jewell is a psychological thriller that revolves around a murder in a picturesque neighborhood of Melville Heights. The story unfolds with a complex array of characters, each hiding secrets that intertwine with the murder investigation. The plot is enthralling, with alternating perspectives, unexpected twists, and a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the reader guessing until the end. Lisa Jewell's unique prose style flows smoothly, creating a haunting psychological thriller that delves into themes of obsession, self-doubt, and the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic community.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, flawed, and interwoven through complex relationships, embodying various themes of obsession and secrecy.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is character-driven with a darkly quirky atmosphere, effectively engaging readers through multiple perspectives that gradually unveil secrets.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a murder in a seemingly perfect neighborhood, exposing hidden secrets and obsessions of its residents, ultimately leading to a tense and shocking resolution.

Setting:

The setting is an upscale neighborhood in Bristol, where the contrast between outward appearances and hidden secrets is a central theme.

Pacing:

The pacing starts slow but evolves into a gripping narrative that maintains suspense with unexpected twists and revelations.
‘Happy new year, Mum,’ she said. ‘I’m sorry I didn’t come to see you yesterday. Alfie and I had shocking hangovers. We went to a party over in Frenchay, at Candy’s new flat. Remember Candy? Candy Boyd...

Notes:

The book is set in a posh neighborhood called Melville Heights in Bristol, England.
It explores themes of obsession, secrets, and voyeurism among the residents.
Joey, the main character, has a crush on her neighbor Tom Fitzwilliam, who is the headmaster of a school.
Tom's son, Freddie, watches the neighborhood and keeps detailed logs of people's activities.
The story begins with a murder scene and unfolds backward in time to reveal clues leading to it.
Jenna, a student, suspects Tom and is wary of his influence on her peers.
The book is known for its intricate character development and unexpected twists.
Each character has their own secrets, which intertwine to create a complex narrative.
Lisa Jewell is known for her psychological thrillers, and this novel is no exception in delivering suspense and surprise.
Reading perspectives include Joey, Jenna, and Freddie, enhancing the mystery of the plot.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers include themes of infidelity, mental health issues, and voyeurism, which may affect sensitive readers.

Has Romance?

The book includes romantic tension and infatuation, particularly with the character Joey's feelings towards Tom Fitzwilliam, indicating a medium level of romance.

From The Publisher:

"Quickly and assuredly, Jewell builds an ecosystem of countervailing suspicions…Tricky, clever, unexpected." -New York Times Book Review

"Brace yourself as Jewell stacks up the secrets, then lights a long, slow fuse." -People

"A seize-you-by-the-throat thriller and a genuinely moving family drama." -A.J. Finn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Woman in the Window

The instant New York Times and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Then She Was Gone delivers another suspenseful page-turner about a shocking murder in a picturesque and well-to-do English town, perfect "for fans of Gone Girl, The Girl on the Train, and Luckiest Girl Alive" (Library Journal).

You're back home after four years working abroad, new husband in tow. You're keen to find a place of your own. But for now, you're crashing in your big brother's spare room.

That's when you meet the man next door. He's the head teacher at the local school. Twice your age. Extraordinarily attractive.

You find yourself watching him. All the time. But you never dreamed that your innocent crush might become a deadly obsession.

Or that someone is watching you.

In Lisa Jewell's latest "bone-chilling suspense" (People), no one is who they seem-and everyone has something to hide. Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn and Ruth Ware, Watching You will keep you guessing as "Jewell teases out her twisty plot at just the right pace" (Booklist, starred review) until the startling revelations on the very last page.

Ratings (30)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (16)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (4)
Did Not Like (3)

Reader Stats (52):

Read It (30)
Want To Read (20)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (1)

2 comment(s)

Loved It
1 month

3.7 stars. While it wasn't a full 4 star read I was surprised in how much I got hooked on the story. Not a new favorite but definitely is what will make me pick up more thrillers by Lisa Jewell as I've been neglecting to do so for some time. The twist and turns where pretty interesting although the story did lack in some parts and I've wanted more of something. Engaging audiobook though

 
Loved It
1 year

Same page turning twist. Every chapter leaves you wanting more until you have to keep on reading. A thriller you’ll never guess the ending.

 

About the Author:

Lisa Jewell is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of nineteen novels, including The Family Upstairs and Then She Was Gone, as well as Invisible Girl and Watching You. Her novels have sold over 5 million copies internationally, and her work has also been translated into twenty-nine languages. Connect with her on Twitter @LisaJewellUK, on Instagram @LisaJewellUK, and on Facebook @LisaJewellOfficial.

 
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