Darlings, What A Fabulous Bitchfest Of A Read!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                   It is interesting the novel is titled "The Couple Next Door," because the story actually two couples--the Contis and the Stillwells.  Both are equally despicable in their own way, and the story kicks off with a bit of stupidity on the Contis' part.

                                     Graham Stillwell, their next door neighbor, is having a birthday party thrown by his lascivious wife, Cynthia.  The Stillwells are the sexual sophisticates--or so they think--while the Contis are square.  So, they go to the Stillwells' party, but they stupidly leave their six-month-old daughter, Cora, at home, alone.  Oh, they bring a baby monitor to the party, and check on her every half hour, but big deal!!!!!!!!!!  Already, I would call Child Services for these two!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                        Well, guess what?  Cora is kidnapped, and the story is off at a galloping pace.

                                         There are many twists and turns that fill one with anger and outrage.  Every adult here has something wrong with them--from Graham's voyeurism and exhibitionism, to Anne's eerily convenient mental disorder.  I am telling you, the story would not let me go, until I read the chilling last line.

                                           This is a perfect follow up to a dense literary read, as it entertains, and cleanses your palette.  This is Shari Lapena's first novel, but on its basis, I want to read some of her others.  She knows how to deliver delicious fun.

                                             Perfect for those final winter evenings, with a cup of tea!

                                              Bet Jane Austen peers over your shoulders, girls!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!