This book had me at the first sentence. I was totally engrossed the whole way through and although the ending came up on me a little abruptly, I think I like the way it was left hanging a bit. A thoroughly disturbing psychological thriller that I would avoid if you were thinking of leaving your little ones with a new nanny or babysitter and going back to work.

I enjoy novels that begin with the crime already having taken place. At first, I was not impressed with the prose; I blamed it on the translation. I stuck with it and I changed my mind. The prose is sparse yet descriptive. The story is so real. The author really reveals the mother’s thoughts and fears - the dilemma of modern women- struggling with a career, motherhood, and attempting to do it all - trying to be super woman. I disagree with the blurb on the back cover. I don’t think one has to be a mother to understand or emphasize with the characters, specifically the female characters.
Some readers may be disappointed that there is no resolution; I enjoyed this aspect of the novel. It reminded me of why I like French films so much. The story just ends.

Having it been compared to "Gone Girl", I was really expecting a lot out of this book; however, I finished disappointed. Not much of an ending (after a lot of captivating character building and plot points), it seemed like the author had been rushed to finish, so the final chapters were vague and unsatisfying. I finished the book feeling like I'd wasted my time.

Reply to "megaculpa", who thinks that continental Europeans don't write good books: those writers write books for adults, for mature readers. You prefer novels that don't stray off the beaten path, that are easy to chew and digest. Other readers like stories that try something new.

An interesting novel which gets into the psyche of an excellent nanny who loves the children she looks after. I wish the author had not included the prologue which led to my expecting the ending. It would have been better if there had not been that spoiler.

NYT 10 Best 2018

As a I mother I was very anxious after reading the prologue at the start of this book. It is however very well written and I was engaged and keen to find out what happened and I am glad I persisted. It is a gripping tale, although creepy in many ways and had me on the edge knowing the end result from the start. A worthwhile read!

Terrible book.

Stars: ⭐⭐⭐

Disturbing drama...

Myriam and Paul have found her at last, the perfect nanny for their two young children. Now their lives will be perfect too...with careers to challenge them, and a wonderful nanny to help raise their family. She cooks, she cleans, she plays games with the children...what more could one ask? But Louise is far, far from perfect and Myriam and Paul will soon have their lives destroyed in the most terrible way imaginable.

As Louise integrates herself more and more fully into the family’s life, warning signs become clear, but will anyone pay attention?

Pros: Short, concise chapters and well developed characters.

Cons: Not much plot at all, and I felt the ending let the book down...the first chapter, while incredibly disturbing and difficult to read, was much stronger than the ending.

Not sure about this one actually...terrifying content, so please be ready for that if you choose to read this one. Unfortunately, I didn’t love it.

Absolutely loved this book! Read it for my book club and I know there will be lots to discuss.