It takes some time to come down from this novel. I had to let my thoughts settle before I could write a review.

Briefly, Grace is a survivor of a traumatic upbringing inside a Fair Latter Day Saints (FLDS) commune. Her mind has fractured into multiple distinct personalities to help her cope with the many hardships she endured. Years ago, she escaped into the arms of the police during a raid, taking a group of nine other children with her. Now it appears that someone may be taking revenge as one by one members of the group are dying under circumstances designed to look like accidents or suicide. A perceptive cop picks up the pattern and tries to determine who is behind the killing - is Grace a victim or the murderer?

The depiction of life inside the FLDS in this novel is chilling and believable. We follow Grace’s journey through her flashbacks and learn the tragic and cruel events that led to her disorder. Her illness is portrayed with empathy and dignity - I loved the inclusion of Bella her service dog. When the twist is revealed it isn’t exactly a surprise but that didn’t detract from the story at all. The ending is not completely satisfying and in some respects felt a little abrupt, however the reader isn’t expecting a happily ever after anyway.

It is a great book which definitely makes it on my list of the best I’ve read this year. There is some upsetting content here - themes including miscarriage, child sexual abuse, domestic violence and rape - for readers sensitive to that material.

Thanks to Dundurn Press and SM Freedman for my copy.