Invisible Girl : Book Review


Book Review

 

Title: Invisible Girl

Author: Lisa Jewell

Genre: Thriller

 

Having read and liked Lisa Jewell's earlier works, I was compelled to pick this up, based on a recommendation from a Professor. 

 

Invisible Girl is a gripping thriller and revolves around a group of people and how their lives intersect after a mysterious disappearance of a girl named Saffyre. There is Owen, a former college professor who has been suspended after being accused of sexual misconduct. He is perceived as someone creepy by his neighbors-a family of four headed by Cate. Her husband is a psychotherapist under whom Saffyre had spent three years and she stalks him after he ends his sessions with her. When Saffyre disappears on Valentine's day, Owen is the last person to see her. From there on begins a gradual unravelling of the mystery which leads to a discovery of secrets, lies, deceit and ghosts of the past. 

 

Set in a quiet neighborhood in London, the book is written from the point of view from the three characters-Cate, Owen and Saffyre. Through the eyes of these three main characters, we are introduced to the other characters, their secrets and idiosyncrasies. Despite his dark past, the character of Owen evokes sympathy. 

 

The author touches upon several themes and issues.  A central one being the effect of childhood trauma on the teenage and growing up years, whether its sexual abuse or being abandoned by your close ones. She captures the complex dynamics of romantic and familial relationships.  It's interesting to note how the title goes along with the characters, as each of them feels a sense of anonymity and invisible in their own manner. Another interesting aspect in the book is society's hurried judgement about a person and their willingness to give them a second chance.  

 

Invisible Girl is engaging, gripping and offers a multitude of layers in the plot and characters. 

 




 

 

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