Review | THE FAVORITE DAUGHTER by Kaira Rouda

From the author of the page-turning domestic suspense Best Day Ever, comes another gripping novel of psychological suspense set in an upscale Southern California community, for fans of B.A. Paris and Shari Lapena.

The perfect home. The perfect family. The perfect lie.

Jane Harris lives in a sparkling home in an oceanfront gated community in Orange County. It’s a place that seems too beautiful to be touched by sadness. But exactly one year ago, Jane’s oldest daughter, Mary, died in a tragic accident and Jane has been grief-stricken ever since. Lost in a haze of anti-depressants, she’s barely even left the house. Now that’s all about to change.

It’s time for Jane to reclaim her life and her family. Jane’s husband, David, has planned a memorial service for Mary and three days later, their youngest daughter, Betsy, graduates high school. Yet as Jane reemerges into the world, it’s clear her family has changed without her. Her husband has been working long days—and nights—at the office. Her daughter seems distant, even secretive. And her beloved Mary was always such a good girl—dutiful and loving. But does someone know more about Mary, and about her last day, than they’ve revealed?

The bonds between mothers and daughters, and husbands and wives should never be broken. But you never know how far someone will go to keep a family together…

This will definitely be one of the books on 2019 Top Reads list.

This is the first book that I have read by this author but will be reading more work by her.

The narrative is written in the first person point of view of Jane Harris.

Jane had it all. A loving husband, two daughters, a beautiful house until that tragic day 1 year ago when her oldest daughter fell to her death. Since that time, Jane has been suffering from “complicated” depression, which has pulled her emotionally from her family.

But this week is big and she plans on making a comeback. The memorial for the celebration of her daughter and in days, her youngest daughter will be graduating High School. She has waited for this day and has BIG plans for the celebrations.

A bone chilling read! I didn’t know if I should have compassion for Jane or be afraid of her. Were her husband and living daughter just not understanding and compassionate towards her or were they the true victims?

Twists and turns galore! This book was riveting and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough!

If you like psychological thrillers, you HAVE to read this one!!!

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