Title: The Perfect Girl
Author: Gilly Macmillan
First published March 3, 2016
464 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780062476760 (ISBN10: 0062476769)
Rating: 3.67
Overview
In the quiet stillness of the night, Zoe is startled by the unexpected arrival of the enigmatic and beautiful Simon. Despite his haunting demeanor, Simon shows a deep understanding of the pain and loss that Zoe feels as she watches her mother slowly slip away.
But Simon is not like other visitors – he is one of the undead, a vampire seeking vengeance for the brutal death of his own mother centuries ago. As the two grow closer, Simon must decide if he can trust Zoe with the fragile truth of his existence and the unbearable loneliness that comes with it.
Will Zoe be the one to help Simon break free from his lifeless curse and find a way to truly live again?
About the Author
Meet Gilly Macmillan, a bestselling author whose works include TO TELL YOU THE TRUTH, THE NANNY, WHAT SHE KNEW (published as BURNT PAPER SKY in some territories), THE PERFECT GIRL, ODD CHILD OUT, and I KNOW YOU KNOW. With a nomination for the prestigious Edgar Award and recognition as an ITW award finalist, Gilly’s books have also been translated into over 20 languages.
Originally from Swindon, Wiltshire, Gilly has also lived in Northern California. She studied History of Art at Bristol University and the Courtauld Institute of Art in London.
Nowadays, she resides in Bristol, UK with her loved ones and dedicates her time to writing. In fact, Gilly is currently working on her seventh novel.
Editoral Review
The Perfect Girl by Gilly Macmillan is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The book was first published on March 3, 2016, and has since become a best-seller, garnering critical acclaim for its riveting plot and expertly-drawn characters.
Gilly Macmillan is a British author who is best known for her suspenseful novels, including What She Knew and I Know You Know. She has a powerful voice in the thriller genre and brings a unique perspective to her work based on her background as a psychotherapist.
The Perfect Girl tells the story of Zoe Maisey, a teenage pianist who has just achieved a lifelong dream of performing at a prestigious concert. Zoe is accompanied by her mother, Maria, and new stepfather, Chris, when tragedy strikes, and the family is involved in a fatal car accident.
Zoe is the only survivor, and the experience has left her traumatized and guilt-ridden. The story takes place in Bristol, England, and is told from multiple perspectives, including Zoe, her stepbrother Lucas, her aunt Tessa, and her mother Maria.
The book follows their attempts to navigate the aftermath of the accident and to come to terms with their own secrets and betrayals. The strength of The Perfect Girl lies in Macmillan’s expert characterization and pacing.
Each of the characters has their own secrets and motivations, making them all truly unique and engaging. The book moves at a fast pace, with twists and turns that will have readers on the edge of their seats.
However, the book is not without its flaws. Some readers may find the constant shifts in perspective to be confusing, and the ending may leave some questions unanswered.
Additionally, some of the themes in the book, such as mental illness and family dysfunction, may be triggering for some readers. Overall, The Perfect Girl is a stunning achievement in the psychological thriller genre.
It is a well-crafted book that will keep readers guessing until the very end. Macmillan has a powerful voice and brings a unique perspective to the genre.
Readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers with complex characters will love this book. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
