Synopsis

Newly separated from his wife and desperate to escape the ghosts of his failed marriage, Cole leaves London for a fresh start in the countryside. He accepts a job as a wildlife ranger and settles into his cozy seaside cottage, relishing the respite from the noise, drama, and relentless careerism that curdled his relationship along with his mental health. Then he meets Leonora, the reclusive artist living next door, and is instantly charmed by her warm and gentle spirit.

But as the two forge a connection on the cliff’s edge they call home, two young women activists raising awareness about gendered violence disappear while passing through. Cole and Leonora find themselves in the middle of a police investigation and resulting media firestorm as the world learns of what happened, and as the tension escalates, they quickly realize that they don’t know each other that well after all.

Review

So I have to admit that I almost DNF this after a few pages. The narrator (who I misgendered) was so unbelievable that I was really frustrated and annoyed. However, I had a hunch that it would be worth persevering and I’m so glad I did.

Cole believes he is one of the good guys. He’s offered to be a stay at home dad, likes cushions and regularly cooks for his wife – she’s so lucky and yet so ungrateful. His wife prefers her career to a life of motherhood and does not appreciate how wonderful Cole is compared to most men.

As you read, your spine prickles, your heart races and your tongue will be bitten as you try not to shout at the characters. There are also fantastic insights into social media reactions to news, noting the difference in comments directed to men and women. All characters are pretty despicable, which does affect the story a little; that said, it helps you (try and) form a more balanced opinion once you see how the story plays out…

Hall writes well and keeps you guessing as you read, your opinion of the characters (who you will love to hate) wavering at times until you start doubting yourself, until you reach the end and make your final decision.

I say to a lot of male friends that they don’t understand what it’s like to be a woman – to be afraid of being followed when walking home; to question every outfit choice or turn of phrase when in the company of men. Oh and going for a run in the dark? Absolutely a male privilege.

Everyone should read this book. It will make you angry, sad and determined to make the world a better place. Even if you’re not a feminist, you will want to organise a march for equality and scream into the void about how unfair life can be for minorities.

This book will definitely divide readers – it’s perfect for a book club discussion – but at its heart is a question to everyone: when will women stop being afraid?

Thanks to Pan Macmillan and BookBreak for my proof copy. Opinions my own.