A review by lisatee
The Real Deal by Caitlin Devlin

emotional sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A bit different to my usual thrillers, but I enjoyed this. Having daughters who grew up loving ‘Dance Moms’ I thought this would be an interesting read. I wasn’t disappointed. 
I enjoyed the sort of then/now narrative. 

I felt that Belle’s relationship with Howie needed more clarification. I am unsure whether he was saviour or abuser? (My gut says abuser) But the closeness in ages definitely made it more of a grey area. I don’t understand why she slept with him  (now) - I feel it’s something she wouldn’t do.