Five Bad Deeds by Caz Frear (Simon and Schuster UK)

It took me a considerable amount of time to engage with this book due to its lackluster writing style and delayed initiation of the plot. 

The narrative encompasses multiple perspectives, with the central character being Ellen, a mother of three who recently relocated to their new residence. Alongside her husband, Ellen is in the process of planning renovations when she is confronted with unexpected drama. One day, she receives a derogatory letter, indicating that she is being observed. 

However, the transgressions mentioned in the letter are hardly noteworthy, certainly not of the caliber typically found in thrilling novels. It is perplexing that a casual remark or two could motivate someone to sabotage another person's life, but alas, that is the premise of this book. 

Essentially, the house purchased by Ellen and her family holds significant meaning within the community, particularly for one individual harboring jealousy towards their home and lifestyle, seeking to seek retribution. 

Although Ellen has not committed any actual crimes, this aspect appears to be trivialized and arbitrarily inserted into the narrative. 

Consequently, the book was inundated with tedious conversations, cringe-worthy relationships, and unappealing characters with unsatisfying outcomes. 

Regrettably, this book did not resonate with me.

2/5