A Journey into the Shadows: A Review of We Live Here Now
There’s something undeniably magnetic about a gothic story set against the haunting backdrop of the Moors, and Sarah Pinborough’s We Live Here Now caught my attention from the very first page. As someone who thrives on atmospheric narratives and complex character dynamics, I couldn’t resist diving into Emily and Freddie’s world at Larkin Lodge. What I found was a beautifully crafted blend of suspense, emotional depth, and a fair share of chilling moments that kept me on the edge of my seat.
At the heart of the story is Emily, a woman trying to reclaim her life after a harrowing cliff walk accident. Moving from bustling London to the isolated Dartmoor countryside with her husband Freddie, she longs for a fresh start. But Larkin Lodge isn’t just a pretty new home; it’s steeped in mystery and gothic vibes, making it as intimidating as it is intriguing. Pinborough does an excellent job of immersing us in Emily’s emotional state—her lingering fears and physical recovery from the accident propel her further into the novel’s eerie atmosphere.
The dynamics between Emily and Freddie are beautifully layered. While Freddie’s attempts to assure Emily that her experiences are merely hallucinations from her recovery create tension, it’s hard not to feel Emily’s frustration as she grapples with the unknown. I found myself resonating deeply with her journey—it’s not just a physical recovery she seeks, but an emotional one too. The isolation she faces when Freddie is away amplifies her vulnerabilities, making her journey to uncover the truth behind Larkin Lodge all the more profound.
Pinborough’s writing style is captivating, blending lyrical prose with a relentless pace that makes it hard to put the book down. I finished it in just 24 hours—no small feat during a workweek! The dual perspectives of Emily and Freddie offer an intimate glimpse into their thoughts and emotions, revealing the complexities of their relationship. The audiobook edition, narrated with palpable tension and authenticity, brought these characters to life even more vividly. I felt as if I was right beside them, grappling with uncertainty and fear.
I particularly enjoyed the morally grey aspects of the characters, which added depth to their motivations and decisions. The way Pinborough deftly explores the themes of trust, vulnerability, and the need for understanding in a relationship speaks to anyone who has ever felt unheard or invalidated. Moments that sent chills down my spine were peppered throughout the narrative, especially as Emily began to follow the clues of her unsettling experiences.
While not flawless, We Live Here Now doesn’t need to be. It’s a thrilling ride filled with twists that left me with a wicked grin by the last page. I couldn’t help but feel a rush of satisfaction as the story reached its thrilling conclusion—exactly what I hope for in a great read.
This book may resonate well with fans of psychological thrillers and gothic mysteries who appreciate a touch of the uncanny. If you enjoy narratives that combine rich atmospheres with nuanced character exploration, you’ll find plenty to love here. Personally, We Live Here Now was not just a reading experience; it was an emotional journey that left me eagerly anticipating what Sarah Pinborough will create next.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for providing the opportunity to review this gripping tale. It’s certainly one I will return to and recommend to fellow readers looking for an engaging escape into the darker sides of human emotions.
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