Book Review: 17 Church Row by James Carol

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I love James Carol's books, particularly his Jefferson Winters' ones, and I wasn't sure what to expect with 17 Church Row as it seemed, from the blurb, to be very different from his previous books. What enticed me to try it, apart from my respect for his writing, was the creepiness of the concept of the book. The idea that when you feel safest, you might actually be most at risk. So here's the blurb:

Blurb

Three years ago, Nikki and Ethan Rhodes suffered a devastating loss when their four-year-old daughter Grace was tragically killed in a road accident. Ethan, a radio personality, escapes into work, leaving Nikki to care for their remaining child, Bella, who hasn't spoken since that day.

Seeking a fresh start, the family moves into a revolutionary new house designed by renowned architect, Catriona Fisher. The house features a state-of-the-art security system, along with every amenity you could dream of.

For the Rhodes' this is a chance to finally pick up the pieces and get on with their lives in a place where they feel totally safe.

But what if 17 Church Row isn't the safe haven that they think it is?

My Thoughts

The very idea of losing a child is horrifying enough, but having to cope with the guilt and the ongoing  traunma suffered by the remaining sibling must make it so much harder. 17 Church Row is a very human book. The idea of a family trying to protect itself and to escape from the site of their previous trauma is understandable ... but what makes it so addictive is the slow burn as you feel that Nikki is being overwhelmed and her desperation as a mother sinks in. 
This is a very real visceral novel that looks at not only the threat of digital technology, but also how these threats can impact on human nature. It raises so many questions regarding just how far would you go to protect your child, or what would you be prepared to sacrifice. 
I found 17 Church Row to be well plotted, creepy as hell and extremely though provoking. 
Carol, really forces you to relate to each of the main characters, yet he simultaneously creates a mystery which is intriguing and full of twists. 

Definately recommended.