Reviews

Thank you to Harper Collins Canada for sending me a copy of Take Your Breath Away in exchange for an honest review.

As an avid thriller and mystery reader, I’m ashamed to say that this was the first Linwood Barclay book I’d read. It certainly won’t be my last, though!

The hook of the story is surrounding a woman who looks like Andrew’s wife, who has been missing for six years, suddenly appearing after he’s rebuilt his life. Is it really Brie? If it is, where was she for six years? The general idea is interesting, but the execution was even better.

Barclay seamlessly weaved multiple subplots into the main plot, and it didn’t feel forced. The characterization was good, and I liked the transcripts of the police interviews, too.

As for the main twist, I didn’t predict it, but in retrospect, I should have. I’m kind of kicking myself that I didn’t guess who was behind it all, but that’s a testament to the red herrings and Barclay’s writing. Then, right at the end, when you think everything’s been resolved, Barclay throws in one last twists that ties everything together. I also didn’t predict that.

All in all, I really enjoyed Take Your Breath Away and I can’t wait until my next Barclay book!

ajnel's review against another edition

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

One of the best whodunits of the year so far. The breadcrumbs are superbly placed and require a bit of thinking.

dpageteach00's review against another edition

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mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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