The Invite by Sheryl Browne
Published: February 22, 2022
Bookouture
Pages: 331
Genre: Psychological Thriller
KKECReads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Sheryl Browne writes taut, twisty psychological thrillers. A member of the Crime Writers’ Association and the Romantic Novelists’ Association, she also has short stories in Birmingham City University anthologies, where she completed her MA in Creative Writing. Sheryl has obtained a Certificate of Achievement in Forensic Science, and – according to readers – she makes an excellent psychopath. Sheryl lives in Worcestershire, UK, with her husband and her rescue dogs, Brie and Pablo.
Staring at the stunning diamond solitaire on her finger, Kaitlin knows her relationship has been a whirlwind… but Greg looks after her, and he loves playing dad to her young daughter. How could she refuse when he’s already planned their romantic elopement?
As the guests arrive, Kaitlin wonders why Greg is suddenly acting so shifty. Is that a flicker of recognition on Zoe’s face? And why does she look terrified every time her phone rings?
Kaitlin watches as Zoe knocks back her white wine and makes a beeline for Greg. Then, after a heated conversation, her best friend stumbles outside without looking back.
Days later, the police knock at Kaitlin’s door – Zoe is missing.
When the police question Greg about the night of the party, Kaitlin knows he’s telling lies. But why would he? Can she really trust the man she’s marrying? And could her precious daughter’s life now be in danger too?
“I’m a survivor.”
Kaitlin is a devoted mother trying to recover from her previous marriage. Her current fiancée seems perfect. Greg is caring, kind, and loyal. He is pushing for a wedding very soon, but Kaitlin wants to see the positive. Zöe is coming home with her tail between her legs and a secret. It would seem she isn’t the only one.
This was a twisted ride from start to finish. Just when I thought I knew who had done it, another wrench was thrown into the mix.
The characters were great, and the personalities were all bold. I enjoyed the themes throughout this novel, and the way the story was told was incredibly clever.
I love the bond between Kaitlin and Zöe was beautiful. Women taking care of women. The sisterhood was strong between them. I enjoyed their connection, history, and dynamic.
There were several plot twists I did not see coming. And they were delivered beautifully. The twists were so well planned, and the execution was seamless.
The pacing was perfect, and the intensity was spot on. The last half of this book makes it impossible to put down. I found myself captivated and had to finish reading to know what had happened.
Secrets, lies, and devious desires are dangerous.
Thank you so much for reading The Invite and a brilliant review! I absolutely love it. Feeling quite humbled. 🙂 x