See How They LieRating: 5/5
Buy or Borrow: Buy
Source: Book Swap
Mae feels lucky to have grown up at Hummingbird Creek, an elite wellness retreat where rich teens with psychological problems can get the help they need from her father, a prominent psychiatrist. The Creek has world-class cuisine, a state-of-the-art sports centre and the latest spa treatments. Every aspect of daily life is monitored for optimal health, and there are strict rules for everyone. When Mae is caught breaking the rules, the response is severe. She starts to question everything about her highly controlled life. And at the Creek, asking questions can be dangerous.
I think you all know by now how much I love books about cults and anything cult-related and I also adored Lying About Last Summer, which was a Zoella Book Club pick last year. So when I saw this book lying on the table at the Beauty and the Beast book swap, I just couldn't resist. I was so excited to get reading as I love Sue's writing style, so paired with a cult? I was certain I was going to love it.
The story is written in a first person narrative and focuses on 15 year old Mae. Mae currently lives in Hummingbird Creek and has done for as long as she can remember. Hummingbird Creek is a "retreat for troubled teenage patients". Mae's dad runs things at the Creek so although Mae doesn't have to be there for psychological issues, she lives there with her mum and dad.
Mae's days are set out for her and her life is under strict routine. Down to lessons, exercise and the food they eat, nothing is a choice at the Creek but Mae's lifestyle seems as perfect as it could possibly be to her. No phones, no TV and no internet? Hello spa days, reading and vigorous exercise. Mae doesn't really remember her life before the Creek, so this lifestyle is the only one she knows.
Then the seed of doubt is planted and Mae starts to question what's going on inside the Creek and how things may not be as they first appear. Mae starts to realise that people in the Creek never really leave and she's worried that when she turns 18, things will be the same for her. Will she discover what's really happening behind closed doors?
I struggled with Mae at the beginning, she was annoyingly naive but as she starts to realise what's going on before her eyes, she really grows on you and the reader starts to love her as we join her on her discovery of what's really happening at Hummingbird Creek.
This book is a fast-paced thriller and the ending is blooming marvellous. I couldn't put this book down and finished it in one sitting, as I always do with books this brilliant.
Brilliant review!
ReplyDeleteI hadn't heard much about this, but I love thrillers so will definitely pick it up :)
Cora ❤ http://www.teapartyprincess.co.uk/
Great review. I haven't read any of sue wall man's books before but after reading your amazing review I will definitely pick one for myself.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you enjoyed it and my copy went to a good home!
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