How to Disappear by Gillian McAllister (Penguin)

Gillian McAllister's novel "How to Disappear" centers around Lauren, her daughter Zara, and their blended family consisting of Lauren's husband Aidan and his daughter Poppy. The plot takes a dramatic turn when Zara, who is only fourteen years old, bears witness to a murder in a local park. This sets off a series of events that force them to go into hiding to protect Zara's life. 

The book delves deep into the consequences of raising one's voice, the necessity of disappearing, and the sacrifices made for the sake of loved ones.

With its intricate web of characters, filled with tension and unpredictability, "How to Disappear" is a captivating read that will especially appeal to fans of psychological thrillers. McAllister skillfully blends a legal and psychological drama, crafting complex characters that possess depth and complexity.

This story explores the challenges faced by a family in witness protection, presenting a narrative that is both gripping and emotionally profound. The suspenseful twists and turns throughout the book will keep readers engaged until the very last page.

The atmosphere of the novel can be described as densely oppressive, almost suffocating in its intensity.

However, it is worth noting that the ending feels somewhat unfinished, particularly regarding the emotional resolution. This is especially noticeable when considering the substantial depth of emotions displayed by the characters across the entire story.

4/5