Image Courtesy : Netgalley
Book Info
Name of Book : The Hidden
Author : Melanie Golding
Publisher : Crooked Lane Books
Publication Date : 9 Nov, 2021
No. of Pages : 304
Format : Paperback
Why did I chose the book?
The description of the book, The Hidden by Melanie Golding, was quite a riveting one on Netgalley. So, I thought of giving it a try.
Where to get the book?
The book, The Hidden by Melanie Golding, will be available on Amazon after its release :
Author Introduction
Melanie Golding, author of The Hidden, is an MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa University. She has also worked as a music teacher and factory worker. Melanie has won several local and national short story competitions also. Her debut book was Little Darlings released in 2019.
Blurb
Ruby, a violinist, thinks that her life has fallen apart when she comes face-to-face with the reality of her birth. But, things took a different turn when she moves in a new rented apartment.
She meets Gregor and Constance and their child Leonie, living next block. But she senses that something is out of place with the family. Constance reveals that she is not human but from a Roane clan who are seals. She accuses Gregor of hiding her sealskin. But, when Ruby asks Gregor about this, he says that Constance is delusional and asks for Ruby's help.
But, with time Ruby discovers the dark side of Gregor and devises a perfect plan to save Constance and Leonie.
Was Constance really delusional? What plan Ruby devised to save them? Will Gregor be able to find out about their plan?
My Opinion
Gripping, Fast and A Page- Turner
The Hidden by Melanie Golding turned out to be a real page turner and a gripping book. Two women struggling for freedom turns out to be an amazing story of emotions and strength. I was amazed how both the women handles everything on their own to oust a threat. The plot is awesome and has excellently created an atmosphere of fear. I almost felt myself on an edge while reading it, the ups and downs of the plot are equally marvelous.
The climax was good but the cover of the book would not correspond to the story. So, Don't judge the book by its cover. Indeed a 5 star read.
Character Portrayal
The plot of The Hidden by Melanie Golding revolves around the life of four characters, Ruby, Constance, Joanna and Gregor.
All the three women have been portrayed with fighting for freedom from sadness and loneliness. They have relationship issues but they throughout the story they tried to overcome everything. They stand for each other to save themselves from the clutches of the oppressor.
Also, their character evolves from a weak and emotional to a strong one. The Antagonist, Gregor is bad enough but still I think I wanted some more from him. Tertiary characters are supportive and not unnecessary.
Narrative Style
The Hidden by Melanie Golding, is a multiple POV narrative. But, to simplify this the author has mentioned characters' names so that the reader is able to know whose POV is narrated. Language is simple to understand. By the time you reach the climax, your heart will start racing as what is going to happen next.
Ratings
- Recommendation ------------------- 5/5
- Cover --------------------------------- 4/5
- Writing Style ------------------------ 5/5
- Characters --------------------------- 5/5
- Plot ----------------------------------- 5/5
- Climax ------------------------------- 5/5
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