A review by readingwithbrian
Before She Knew Him by Peter Swanson

challenging dark mysterious sad tense fast-paced

4.25

Just finished Before She Knew Him by Peter Swanson and I'm officially hooked on his writing! 

Swanson masterfully weaves an exquisitely chilling tale that grips you from the very first page. Hen and Lloyd's seemingly perfect suburban life takes a dark turn when Hen becomes convinced that their new neighbor, Matthew, is hiding a sinister secret. Her past battles with psychological instability add a layer of tension that makes you question reality alongside her.

The suspense is palpable as Hen's obsession with a past unsolved murder resurfaces. Swanson's storytelling keeps you on edge, wondering if Hen's fears are grounded or if she’s slipping into another psychotic episode. The psychological complexity of Hen's character is brilliantly portrayed, making her both relatable and deeply compelling.

The twists and turns in Before She Knew Him are relentless, building up to a climax that left me breathless. If you're a fan of intense psychological thrillers with intricate plots and rich character development, this book is an absolute must-read. 

This was my first Peter Swanson book, and I'm already excited to dive into more of his work! Have you read this yet? What did you think of Hen and Matthew’s chilling dance of suspicion? What Swanson book should I read next?