ARC REVIEW ~ Bright Lies, by AA Abbott

#psychologicalthriller

Blurb

She’s learned too much, too young. Can she break free?

Emily’s dreams come true when her mother marries wealthy painter, David. Thanks to him, Emily’s artistic talents shine. Then he starts teaching her things a 14-year-old shouldn’t know. When Emily escapes from David’s luxury mansion, she’s penniless and forced to sleep in a rat-infested alley.

Bad boy Jack has turned his life around. Working as a DJ with ambitions to open a club, he rescues Emily from the streets when he sees a woman in trouble. He doesn’t know she’s still only 15 – and trapped in a dark web of secrets and lies.

David must find Emily and silence her. As he closes in, Jack faces the hardest choice of all. If he saves Emily, he’ll kiss goodbye to his future…

What would you sacrifice for love?

This book has content that may be difficult for some readers.

My Review

Gritty and realistic ~ 5 stars *****

Well done AA Abbott for penning this thoroughly engaging read. It is both gritty and realistic, not only in how it portrays the sensitive issues of abuse, but also the difficulties faced by those who are compelled through one reason or another to live on the streets.

Emily’s relationship with her step-father David is toxic almost from the off, and finally his inappropriate actions cause her to flee from her wealthy home, finding herself on the streets in the heart of Birmingham. It is here she meets Jack, who has his own difficult past to cope with. Jack takes her under his wing and they find themselves becoming ever closer. I was not sure what Emily would have done without Jack but it becomes clear that Emily will have a big impact on his future.

I found it to be a thoughtful and compelling read. It has some excellent characterisations, particularly of Emily and Jack. The portrayal of David is chilling and he truly was the villain of the piece. I enjoyed how the book has a strong sense of place in its descriptions, especially the underbelly of Birmingham where much of the book is based. The issues the book deals with are well researched and sensitively portrayed and I was gripped until the end.

Recommended to fans of psychological thrillers or to anyone looking for a riveting read.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note that an ARC of this book was given to me by the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.