The Stepfather by Lorna Henderson

Psychological thriller - please check trigger warnings!

Emotional family drama, favourite daughter who dies, father who's overstepping, pregnancy, living to get revenge - it all makes sense during the second part of the story, when things that have only been alluded to earlier are brought together.

I'm glad I continued reading, despite the slow beginning and the darker themes. The story comes together well in the end, but for me I'll return to more happy stories including the author's books set on Arran.

As a side note, there is something seriously wrong with our justice system (quote from the ARC);

‘I just know how much stress and heartache lies ahead for you. Especially if this goes to court. To trial. Your life will be ripped apart. Our lives will be ripped apart. Nothing will ever be the same.’
Feelings of guilt and shame are flooding through me.
‘I’m sorry,’ I whisper. ‘But I can’t be the victim anymore. I need to speak out.’

Do check out Lorna Henderson's alter ego Ellie Henderson and her books set on Arran. Arran reviews by Nix

The Stepfather by Lorna Henderson will be released on 12 November 2024.

Please note this is a revised version of the book previously published as The Girl I Left Behind by L.E. Hill.

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NetGalley Reviewer nix21230

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