Synopsis: (Amazon link)
Mallory is delighted to have a new job looking after gorgeous four-year-old, Teddy. She’s been sober for a year and a half and she’s sure her new nannying role in the affluent suburbs will help keep her on the straight and narrow.
That is until Teddy starts to draw disturbing pictures of his imaginary friend, Anya. It is quite clear to Mallory and to Teddy’s parents, even in his crude childlike style, that the woman Teddy is drawing in his pictures is dead.
Teddy’s crayons are confiscated, and his paper locked away. But the drawings somehow keep coming, telling a frightening story of a woman murdered… and they’re getting more sophisticated. But if Teddy isn’t drawing the pictures anymore, who is? And what are they trying to tell Mallory about her new home?
I follow a Facebook page for fans of psychological thriller/horror books. I kept seeing this book posted over and over again. From all the posts, there were just a few who did not like it. Sometimes, I allow those negative reviews to determine if I will read a book. However, I decided to give this book a try.
So did it like it? Yes but do agree with some of the reviewers when they question the “hype” behind the book. It is a great read that keeps you turning the page. I have honestly never read a book quite designed like this one, with the pictures drawn in the book to show you what was described. In my opinion, though, I honestly felt the book was like several movies I have watched (a mix of lots of thrillers and suspense movies). Without giving away spoilers, the storyline is somewhat predictable EXCEPT for one aspect and then you are like “do what?!?!” If you do not read many thrillers, you may not agree. However, I have read too many psychological thriller books this past summer, so maybe my brain is wired to critique all details while I read.
Should you read this book if you like thrillers and suspense novels? Yes. I do think it is a great read but not one that has much to talk about afterwards (if you are looking for book club type books). Also, I personally do not think this book is very scary. I read one review of a person who had to stopped reading it because she was worried she wouldn’t be able to go to sleep, even saying the pictures were really scary. Sorry but I have read stuff far more scarier than this. Anyone who can’t sleep at night after reading this book should not be reading these types of books. Now, enjoy these pictures of the three cute ducklings born this past weekend!
