"Our House" by Louise Candlish

Louise Candlish’s tale of unravelling domestic perfection is a masterpiece.  Situations all too recognisable spiral out of control despite the best intentions of (most) of those involved.   Even the character responsible for precipitating all this isn't entirely unsympathetic.

I’m never impressed by twists that rely on coincidences, hidden pasts or that render a character’s previous actions inconsistent, but here Candlish delivers something so much more effective.  Not a “No way!” - more of an “Of course” as the implications of those final pages sink in.  The structure can feel a little frustrating from time to time, but it’s more than worth it for the pay-offs of several revelations along the way and that final kick in the gut.  I genuinely don’t think I’ve ever read a better ending to a book.  

I’ve really enjoyed several of her books and "The Swimming Pool" and "The Other Passenger" are also top notch, but “Our House” is the pick of the bunch. 

And one last Top Tip - don't buy a copy of this for your partner unless you're happy with them glancing at you suspiciously and taking sneak peeks at your phone for weeks afterwards!
Check out all of her books here.