Twisted by Steve Cavanagh

Hmmm reviewing a book that’s packed full of jaw dropping twists and surprises, this is going to be a challenge. I should probably just say it’s a fast paced and addictive read that keeps you well and truly on your toes. Expect the unexpected, or better yet, don’t expect anything just enjoy the ride. I did.

THE BLURB

BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK
I WANT YOU TO KNOW THREE THINGS:

1. The police are looking to charge me with murder.
2. No one knows who I am. Or how I did it.
3. If you think you’ve found me. I’m coming for you next.

After you’ve read this book, you’ll know: the truth is far more twisted…

MY REVIEW

I think the title “Twisted” pretty much sums this one up. I don’t think I’ve ever come across a book with quite so many twists and turns. Every time you think you have it figured out and you know what’s coming next there’s yet another switch and nothing is what you thought it was. Needless to say this is making it very difficult to write a review without giving anything away.

I’m not going to say a huge amount about the story other than it’s mostly about the mystery surrounding the identity of author JT LeBeau. LeBeau is one of the biggest thriller writers around, with his books famous for their big twist that no one sees coming, and LeBeau most famous for his elusiveness. No one knows who he is, not even his publisher, and it seems clear that he’s hiding his identity to conceal something he’s done. Add in a murder or two and a police investigation and this is a really addictive read.

In some ways it almost feels like a parody of itself and I can imagine the author had a lot of fun writing it. This was actually my first book by Cavanagh so I can’t compare to any of his other stories but this was well written and very clever. Some of the twists were literally jaw dropping. There was the odd moment where I felt like it was on the brink of going too far (and in danger of becoming ridiculous) but I think he kept it just to the right side of the line and there are enough clues scattered to make it just about believable.

The story is told from a few different pov’s and while I had a little bit of a niggle about one specific character I did like the different perspectives. They are very distinctive and although sometimes a bit stereotyped, they are pretty well rounded.

My only real criticism of this book is that I think it peaked a little too soon and the first half felt stronger than the second. With so many twists and turns it was probably always going to be difficult to keep the element of surprise and I did find my attention wandering a little around the mid point but the author does pull it back at the end.

Overall a fast paced and exciting read with some truly shocking moments. I will most certainly be reading more of Cavanagh’s books.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of this book. This has in no way influenced my review.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars