Select one of the keywords
Five Bad Deeds    by Caz Frear Amazon.com order for
Five Bad Deeds
by Caz Frear
Order:  USA  Can
Harper, 2023 (2023)
Hardcover, Softcover, CD, e-Book
* *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

Caz Frear's Five Bad Deeds opens in a prison, where we meet Ellen, mother of four-year-old twins Max and Kian. Ellen's husband Adam has refused to allow visits from the twins.

Before this happened, we meet Ellen raising toddlers and her teen daughter Orla. Ellen's younger sister Kirsty lives with them, in their garden cabin. Ellen's marriage to her husband Adam has been rocky since the twins were born. She's uncomfortable in their wealthy neighborhood after growing up on a rough council estate, and longs to get back to teaching. Overall, Ellen seems a decent sort, aside from a dubious relationship with teen Zane.

She receives a threatening note that 'people have to learn there are consequences'. Who sent it and why? Facebook embarrassment follows and nasty rumors circulate. The story continues with sections revealing each of Five Bad Deeds, relating to Ellen's interactions with those around her - all with good intentions but unintended consequences. Different points of view are shared with readers.

Matters quickly devolve. Social Services are called in anonymously. Zane goes missing, Ellen comes under suspicion, and 'Everyone has an agenda'. She persists in finding out what's behind it all - a real shocker and a dramatic conclusion.

Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons.

Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews